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Away Alternatives: Discovering Premium Luggage Brands Beyond The Obvious

Steve McClain

Steve McClain

Co-Founder @ Marmalade

Published on: November 15, 2024
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Away's polycarbonate shells, USB chargers, and minimalist aesthetics sparked a luggage revolution, inspiring countless travelers to rethink their relationship with their suitcases. But the landscape has evolved dramatically since Away's debut, and we've discovered several innovative brands crafting exceptional alternatives that deserve attention. Here's our exploration of standout luggage makers bringing fresh perspectives to the art of carrying stuff from point A to point B.

Béis
: Where Celebrity Meets Surprising Substance

It's easy to roll your eyes at another celebrity lifestyle brand, but Shay Mitchell's Béis has proven itself as more than just another famous face slapping their name on products. The brand's approach to solving actual travel headaches while maintaining aesthetic appeal suggests a deeper understanding of life on the road.
The Sport Backpack in Beige showcases intelligent design choices that go beyond superficial features. A weight limit indicator on the side handle takes the guesswork out of carry-on restrictions, while the retractable bag strap supports up to 15 pounds of extra gear. The cushioned handle and 360-degree wheels suggest careful attention to the less glamorous aspects of transit, while the reinforced outer shell offers legitimate durability for frequent travelers.

Why we like Béis

  • 1

    Weight Indicator Feature

    Built-in weight limit indicator eliminates carry-on weight guessing

  • 2

    Retractable Support

    Extra bag strap supports up to 15 pounds of additional gear

  • 3

    Practical Innovation

    Combines celebrity style with genuine travel problem-solving

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Lo & Sons
: Where Family Values Meet Modern Engineering

In an industry dominated by corporate conglomerates, Lo & Sons stands out as a refreshing family endeavor born from genuine problem-solving rather than market research. A retired mother and her two sons built this brand by reimagining how bags could better serve real travelers.
The O.G. 2 exemplifies their practical philosophy with features that actually make sense. The shoe compartment accommodates real-world footwear sizes, not just sample-sized sneakers. Their commitment to sustainability manifests not just in eco-friendly materials but in creating products designed to last generations. From the gold-rated leather accents to the strategic pocket placement, every element speaks to careful consideration rather than trendy add-ons.

Why we like Lo & Sons

  • 1

    Family-Driven Design

    Products born from real family travel experiences

  • 2

    Practical Storage

    Realistically sized compartments for actual use cases

  • 3

    Generational Quality

    Built to last with gold-rated materials and thoughtful construction

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Dagne Dover
: Where Corporate Culture Meets Weekend Warriors

While many brands target either business or leisure travelers, Dagne Dover acknowledges that modern professionals need gear that transitions seamlessly between worlds. Their designs speak to those living the increasingly common work-play-travel lifestyle fusion.
The Landon Carryall in Dark Moss embodies this versatility with its premium neoprene construction. The Extra Large size proves particularly compelling for those juggling multiple roles – spacious enough for a weekend's essentials while maintaining a silhouette that wouldn't look out of place in a corner office. The brand's growing focus on recycled materials and ethical manufacturing suggests they're thinking beyond just aesthetic appeal.

Why we like Dagne Dover

  • 1

    Lifestyle Versatility

    Seamless transition between work and leisure needs

  • 2

    Professional Aesthetics

    Office-appropriate design with weekend functionality

  • 3

    Sustainable Focus

    Commitment to recycled materials and ethical production

G

Gabrielle Auerbach

04/24/24

Purchased these size duffle a few years ago. I use it when I am going away for long periods of time or when moving.

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Monos
: Where Japanese Philosophy Meets Travel Tech

Drawing inspiration from the Japanese concept of mono no aware (the appreciation of life's fleeting moments), Monos brings a contemplative approach to luggage design. Their aesthetic emphasizes clean lines and timeless elements over flashy features.
The Compressible Packing Cubes represent this philosophy in action. These organizational tools actually deliver on their promise to reduce packed volume while maintaining order. The brand's confidence shows in their 100-day trial period, while their commitment to mindful production extends from material selection through shipping practices.

Why we like Monos

  • 1

    Japanese-Inspired Design

    Thoughtful minimalism guided by mono no aware philosophy

  • 2

    Proven Compression

    Packing cubes that actually deliver on space-saving promises

  • 3

    Consumer Confidence

    Backed by extensive 100-day trial period

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Carl Friedrik
: Where Old World Craft Meets Contemporary Function

Two brothers founded Carl Friedrik with a vision of merging traditional craftsmanship with modern needs. Their approach treats luggage as functional art rather than mere utility.
The Compact Weekender showcases this fusion through its marriage of Vachetta leather from a single Tuscan tannery with contemporary nylon. The vegetable tanning process creates leather that develops character over time, while modern features like laptop compartments acknowledge present-day necessities. It's this balance of heritage and innovation that gives their pieces such distinct personality.

Why we like Carl Friedrik

  • 1

    Artisanal Heritage

    Traditional Tuscan leather craftsmanship

  • 2

    Material Evolution

    Leather that develops unique character over time

  • 3

    Modern Integration

    Contemporary features within classic design

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Paravel
: Where Environmental Ethics Meet Refined Design

Paravel's approach to sustainable luxury goes deeper than surface-level eco-friendly marketing. Their comprehensive strategy considers environmental impact at every stage of production while maintaining sophisticated aesthetics.
The Fold-Up Bag demonstrates how sustainable materials can yield sophisticated results. From their signature Ecocraft Canvas® to recycled zippers, each component serves both form and function. The ability to compress for storage speaks to urban realities, while the water-resistant construction addresses practical concerns.

Why we like Paravel

  • 1

    Comprehensive Sustainability

    Environmental consideration at every production stage

  • 2

    Innovative Materials

    Proprietary Ecocraft Canvas® with recycled components

  • 3

    Urban Practicality

    Compressible design with water-resistant protection

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Connie W

05/28/24

Perfect to pack upfront + save to use for those souvenirs!

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Calpak
: Where Practicality Meets Social Media Appeal

Edward and Judy Kwon's evolution from modest accessories maker to full-fledged travel lifestyle brand reflects changing consumer priorities. Calpak acknowledges that modern travelers want their gear to look good in photos without sacrificing functionality.
The Medium Compression Packing Cubes exemplify this balance. These organizational tools deliver genuine utility while maintaining visual appeal. The compression feature provides measurable space savings, while thoughtful design touches elevate them above purely utilitarian alternatives.

Why we like Calpak

  • 1

    Visual Innovation

    Instagram-worthy designs with practical functionality

  • 2

    Space Efficiency

    Genuine compression technology with measurable results

  • 3

    Design Evolution

    Successfully transitioned from accessories to lifestyle brand

Shelby

Shelby

05/29/24

I’ve moved four times, and each time, these compression packing cubes have saved me so much space and made organizing clothes so much easier!

Emily Russell

Emily Russell

05/08/24

I bought a full set of these several years ago and just purchased a second set even though the first set is still going strong - just needed more for longer trips! I love how stylish these cubes are in addition to being water resistant and super durable.

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Level8
: Where Digital Demands Meet Classic Style

Level8's approach acknowledges our increasingly tech-dependent travel habits without letting gadget accommodation dominate their aesthetic. Their designs suggest an understanding of how modern explorers move through the world.
The Vintage Collection balances protection with presentation through its polycarbonate shell construction. TSA-approved locks and smooth-rolling wheels handle practical concerns, while the overall design maintains sophistication. The focus on durability ensures these pieces can weather both physical demands and changing trends.

Why we like Level8

  • 1

    Tech Integration

    Modern device accommodation without compromising style

  • 2

    Security Focus

    TSA-approved features with sophisticated presentation

  • 3

    Durability Priority

    Built to withstand both physical demands and trend changes

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Moving Forward: The Evolution of Modern Luggage

This new wave of luggage makers proves that innovation in the category continues well beyond Away's initial disruption. Whether prioritizing sustainable practices, embracing family heritage, or reimagining functionality, each brand brings unique perspectives to the art of carrying our belongings. As travel habits continue evolving, these alternatives offer compelling options for discerning travelers seeking something beyond the obvious choices.