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When you compare away large checked luggage vs carry on luggage, you see two distinct tools for different trip lengths. Both suitcases share a lightweight design, spinner wheels, and a lifetime repair policy. The main difference lies in their shell material and capacity. The large option uses a softside shell for maximum packing volume, while the carry-on features a hardside polycarbonate shell for durability in overhead bins. Each serves a specific travel need.
Shell Material
Softside
100% Polycarbonate Hardside
Dimensions
28.7" H x 21.5" L x 11.8" W
21.7" H x 14.4" L x 9" W
Interior Capacity
24" x 20.5" (fits 2+ weeks)
20.1" x 13.9" x 7.5" (fits 3-5 days)
Compression System
Patented interior compression system
Dual-buckle compression panel
Trolley Handle
2 adjustable height settings
3-position height adjustable
Weight
not listed
7.5 pounds
Choose the first if
- You need to pack for trips longer than a week and require maximum interior volume.
- You prefer a softside shell that can expand or compress to fit irregular items.
- You are checking your bag and want a larger footprint for extensive clothing storage.
Choose the second if
- You want to avoid checked bag fees by keeping your luggage in the overhead bin.
- You prefer a rigid polycarbonate shell that resists impact and maintains its shape.
- You are traveling for three to five days and need a lighter, more maneuverable bag.
Verdict
Choose the Large Softside Spinner if you are packing for extended trips and need every inch of space. Choose The Carry-On Hardside if you prioritize overhead bin compatibility and a durable, rigid exterior for short getaways.
Shell Material and Build Quality
Shell material
Edge: Tie
The Away Large Softside Spinner uses a softside shell, which typically offers more flexibility when packing. This design allows you to squeeze in extra items if needed, though it may not protect contents as rigidly against heavy impacts. In contrast, the Away The Carry-On 22-inch Hardside features a 100% polycarbonate hard shell. This material provides a rigid exterior that better shields your belongings from crushing forces during transit. The hard shell also tends to be more water-resistant and easier to clean. You should choose the softside if you need expandable packing space, or the hardside if you prioritize structural protection for fragile items.
Packing capacity
Edge: Away Large Softside Spinner
Capacity differs significantly between these two models. The Large Softside Spinner has interior dimensions of 24 inches by 20.5 inches, designed to hold enough clothing for trips lasting two weeks or more. It includes a patented compression system and a laundry bag to maximize this volume. The Carry-On Hardside measures 20.1 inches by 13.9 inches by 7.5 inches inside. This smaller footprint is ideal for quick trips of three to five days. While the softside holds more, the hardside’s dual-buckle compression panel helps organize what you do pack. You will need the large version for extended travel, but the carry-on suffices for short getaways.
Wheel system
Edge: Away The Carry-On 22-inch Hardside
Both suitcases utilize spinner wheels for 360-degree mobility. The Large Softside Spinner employs proprietary stabilizer technology to help prevent wobbles and bag tipping while you walk through crowded terminals. It also features a quick-release trolley handle with two adjustable height settings. The Carry-On Hardside uses WhisperGlide 360-degree spinner wheels, which are marketed for smooth rolling. It also includes a quick-release, three-position height adjustable trolley handle. The hardside offers an extra handle position for potentially better ergonomic fit for shorter users. Both designs include top and underside grab handles for lifting. The hardside has a slight edge due to the additional handle adjustment.
Storage features
Edge: Away Large Softside Spinner
Interior organization varies by model. The Large Softside Spinner includes one main compartment with a patented interior compression system and front lid storage. It also features two hidden, easy-access front pockets that are padded to protect smaller items like electronics or documents. The Carry-On Hardside includes three mesh pockets and a patented double-buckle compression panel, along with a laundry bag. Both include a TSA-approved combination lock, with the softside offering a color-matching padlock. The softside’s external front pockets provide quick access to essentials without opening the main compartment, which is a practical advantage for frequent reach-ins.
Dimensions and weight
Edge: Away The Carry-On 22-inch Hardside
The physical dimensions determine how each suitcase fits in your travel routine. The Large Softside Spinner measures 28.7 inches in height, 21.5 inches in length, and 11.8 inches in width. It is classified as a large checked bag. The Carry-On Hardside measures 21.7 inches in height, 14.4 inches in length, and 9 inches in width, with a listed weight of 7.5 pounds. The hardside is designed to fit in most overhead bins, avoiding checked baggage fees. The large version is significantly taller and wider, requiring you to check it. If avoiding checked baggage is your priority, the carry-on’s compact dimensions are the clear winner.
Choose the right Away suitcase for you
Travelers needing max space for long trips
Our pick: Away Large Softside Spinner
The Large Softside Spinner measures 28.7 inches high and 21.5 inches long, offering a spacious interior of 24 by 20.5 inches. This capacity supports packing for more than two weeks. The softside shell provides flexibility to squeeze in extra items, while the patented compression system helps organize your belongings efficiently within the main compartment.
Frequent flyers avoiding checked bag fees
Our pick: Away The Carry-On 22-inch Hardside
This Carry-On measures 21.7 inches high and fits in most overhead bins, making it ideal for quick three-to-five-day trips. The hardside polycarbonate shell is durable and lightweight at 7.5 pounds. Its compact exterior dimensions of 14.4 by 9 inches ensure compliance with airline size restrictions without sacrificing essential packing space.
Those prioritizing smooth maneuverability and handles
Our pick: Away Large Softside Spinner
The Large Spinner includes top, side, and underside grab handles for easy lifting in various situations. It features a proprietary stabilizer to reduce wobbles and a quick-release trolley handle with two adjustable height settings. These design elements provide stability and ease of movement, helping you navigate airports and tight spaces with greater control and comfort.
Away Large Softside Spinner
Best for: extended travel requiring maximum packing volume
- Overall Dimensions
- 21.5 x 11.8 x 28.7 inches
- Wheel Type
- 360° spinner wheels
- Lock Type
- TSA-accepted combination padlock
- Shell
- Softside
- Features
- Lightweight
- Style
- Wheeled
The Away Large Checked Luggage is a 29-inch softside spinner suitcase designed for extended trips. Its internal dimensions measure 24 by 20.5 inches, offering ample space for over two weeks of travel. The lightweight shell features a proprietary stabilizer to prevent wobbling and a quick-release handle with two height settings. It includes a TSA-accepted padlock and lifetime repair coverage for functional damage.
- 24 x 20.5 inch internal dimensions maximize usable space for long trips
- Lightweight softside shell reduces overall weight
- Proprietary stabilizer helps prevent wobbles and bag tips during travel
- Quick-release trolley handle offers two adjustable height settings
- Includes TSA-accepted color-matching combination padlock
- 29-inch height exceeds standard carry-on limits for most airlines
- Softside shell provides less rigid protection than hardshell alternatives
- 21.5-inch length may restrict fit in smaller overhead bins
- You need extra packing capacity for trips lasting more than two weeks
- You prioritize a lightweight suitcase that is easy to lift
- You want a spinner suitcase with multiple grab handles for easy maneuvering
- You require a bag that fits in standard overhead carry-on bins
- You prefer a rigid hardshell exterior for maximum impact protection
- You need a compact bag for short weekend getaways
Verdict: Away Large Checked Luggage 29-inch is a spacious, lightweight option for travelers who need to pack for extended durations. It suits those who prioritize internal volume and maneuverability over compact carry-on dimensions.
Away The Carry-On 22-inch Hardside
Best for: short trips under five days
- Empty Weight
- 7.5 pounds
- Overall Dimensions
- 14.4"L x 9"W x 21.7"H
- Shell Material
- 100% polycarbonate
- Wheel Type
- WhisperGlide 360° spinner wheels
- Lock Type
- TSA-approved combination lock
- Shell
- Hardside
The Away Carry-On is a 22-inch hardside spinner suitcase designed for overhead bin compliance. It measures 14.4 inches long, 9 inches wide, and 21.7 inches high, with a lightweight 7.5-pound build. The interior features a compression system and mesh pockets for organized packing. It suits travelers needing durable, compact luggage for trips lasting three to five days.
- 22-inch dimensions fit most overhead bins
- 7.5-pound lightweight polycarbonate shell
- Dual-buckle compression panel increases packing space
- Four 360-degree spinner wheels for smooth maneuvering
- Smaller capacity than the 29-inch large checked option
- Fixed 22-inch size limits use for longer trips
- You need a carry-on that fits standard overhead bins
- You prefer a lightweight hardside shell for durability
- You pack for short trips of three to five days
- You require checked luggage for extended travel
- You need extra interior volume for bulkier items
- You prefer a softside construction for flexibility
Verdict: Away 22-inch Hardside Carry-On is a compact, durable option for travelers who prioritize overhead bin compliance and lightweight design. It fits those taking short trips who want organized packing without checking a bag.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Away Large Softside Spinner | Away The Carry-On 22-inch Hardside |
|---|---|---|
| Empty Weight | – | 7.5 pounds |
| Overall Dimensions | 21.5 x 11.8 x 28.7 inches | 14.4"L x 9"W x 21.7"H |
| Shell Material | – | 100% polycarbonate |
| Wheel Type | 360° spinner wheels | WhisperGlide 360° spinner wheels |
| Lock Type | TSA-accepted combination padlock | TSA-approved combination lock |
| Shell | Softside | Hardside |
| Wheels | Spinner Wheels | Spinner Wheels |
| Features | Lightweight | Carry-On, Lightweight |
| Style | Wheeled | Wheeled |
| Dimensions | 21.5 × 11.8 × 28.7 inches | 14.4 × 9 × 21.7 inches |
| Weight | – | 7.5 pounds |
| Size | Large | 22-inch |
| Color | Cloud Gray | Ruby Haze |
| Model | – | 100633RBHZV1 |
Frequently asked questions
Which bag fits in an overhead bin?
The Away Carry-On 22-inch Hardside is designed for overhead bin compliance. It measures 21.7 inches in height and 14.4 inches in length. This compact size allows you to skip checking a bag on short trips. The large checked luggage exceeds standard carry-on dimensions and must be checked at the gate.
What is the weight difference between the two?
The carry-on model weighs 7.5 pounds. The large checked luggage is also described as lightweight, though a specific weight is not listed. Both options prioritize ease of movement. You can maneuver either bag easily thanks to their spinner wheel designs.
How do the shell materials differ?
The large luggage features a softside shell, which offers flexibility when packing. The carry-on uses a hardside shell for rigid protection. Softside materials may allow you to squeeze in extra items, while hardside designs provide a structured exterior. Choose based on your protection needs.
Is the large bag good for long trips?
Yes, the large softside spinner is ideal for extended travel. It provides maximum packing volume for durations requiring more space. Its 28.7-inch height and 21.5-inch length support packing for more than two weeks. It suits travelers who prioritize capacity over compact dimensions.
Does the carry-on have internal organization?
The carry-on is designed for organized packing without checking a bag. It is best for short trips under five days. Its compact interior helps keep items tidy. You can pack efficiently for brief journeys while maintaining a lightweight profile.
What color options are available?
The large checked luggage is available in Cloud Gray. The carry-on comes in Ruby Haze. Both colors are specific to their respective models. You can choose based on your aesthetic preference while selecting the bag that fits your travel needs.
