Choosing between Away vs Rimowa suitcases can be challenging as both brands offer high-quality and durable options. Rimowa is known for its aluminum hard-side luggage, which is very durable but comes at a high price. Away, on the other hand, has recently entered the market with its own aluminum luggage, offering a less expensive option while still maintaining durability and design.
Both brands have their own strengths, and the choice often comes down to personal preference and budget. Rimowa’s long-standing reputation and high prices reflect its established name in the industry, while Away attracts customers with its trendy designs and more affordable options. Examining the features, benefits, and costs of each can help travelers decide which brand best suits their needs.
Features of Away vs Rimowa Luggage
Features
- Origins
- Material
- Design
- Durability
- Price
- Warranty
- Popularity
Rimowa
- German-based, long history
- Light, durable, but expensive
- Limited models and color variety
- Known for high durability
- High prices
- Less flexible
- More exclusive, less accessible
Away
- USA-based, relatively new
- Various materials, more affordable
- Offers color variations and smart features
- High quality and durability
- Lower prices
- More flexible
- Widely accepted, excellent customer ratings
Rimowa
Rimowa’s reputation stands on its long history and the use of innovative materials for its hard-side luggage. Despite its durability and exclusivity, the brand offers limited models and designs, along with a high price tag, which makes it less accessible to the average traveler.
Away
Away, a newer USA-based brand, provides a different appeal. It offers a variety of color options and modern features at a lower price compared to Rimowa. The brand’s flexible warranty and return policies contribute to its growing popularity and excellent customer ratings, making it a preferred choice for many travelers.
Both brands have unique strengths, allowing travelers to choose based on their specific needs and preferences. Whether it’s the traditional reliability of Rimowa or the innovative and affordable options from Away, both offer high-quality luggage solutions.
1. Rimowa Titanium Topas Suitcase
Product Specifications
- Luggage Type: Carry-on Suitcase
- Dimensions: 22 x 16 x 8 inches
- Capacity: 32 liters
- Weight: 10 pounds
- Color: Champagne
Key Features
- Constructed from metal and alloy material, the Rimowa Titanium Topas Suitcase is designed to be extremely durable and resistant to damage.
- Enhanced security with TSA-approved locking system.
- Features eight spinner wheels that rotate 360 degrees for smooth maneuverability.
Reasons We Like It
The suitcase is made from durable aluminum and metal, offering exceptional protection and resistance to shocks. It’s spacious and has a premium design. Although it’s heavier than other options, its high-security features make it ideal for protecting valuable items.
Our Verdict
While it is a premium suitcase with high security and ample storage, its cost and weight may be prohibitive for some travelers. It’s best suited for those who prioritize security over portability.
Reason to Buy
- Offers ultimate security and sturdiness.
- TSA locks provide added protection.
- Premium quality ensures a safe journey.
- Comes with a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects.
Reason to Avoid
- Higher cost compared to other options.
- Lacks advanced smart features.
- Limited to one color option.
- Warranty only covers manufacturing defects, not transport or handling damage.
2. Rimowa Essential Suitcase
Product Specifications
- Luggage Dimensions: 21 x 16 x 9 inches
- Weight: 7 pounds
- Color Options: Pink, Dark Brown, Black, White, Slate Grey, Dark Green, Blue
Key Features
- Made of a modern, lightweight hard-shell material.
- Equipped with sturdy corner guards to prevent damage.
- Features a free-stage telescopic handle for easy maneuverability.
- Includes double-spinner wheels that rotate 360 degrees smoothly.
- Complete security with a TSA combination lock.
Why do we like it?
The Rimowa Essential Suitcase offers a lightweight and sturdy design, featuring corner guards for added durability. With its spacious interior and multiple color choices, it stands out visually. The double-spinner wheels ensure smooth mobility, and a TSA combination lock adds a layer of security. Additionally, the lifetime warranty provides peace of mind.
Our Verdict
Despite being pricier than many competitors, the Rimowa Essential Suitcase delivers on quality and durability. It offers a secure travel experience with its robust hard surface and protective corner guards. The double-spinner wheels allow for easy navigation in crowded places. Available in various colors, it also offers spacious compartments with organized dividers, enhancing the travel experience.
Reason to Buy
- Lightweight and durable hard-shell construction.
- Lifetime warranty included.
- Sleek design with multiple color options.
- Long-lasting and sturdy design.
Reason to Avoid
- Higher price point compared to other brands.
- Lacks additional smart features apart from the TSA lock.
- No warranty claims for damages caused by transportation or mishandling.
3. Rimowa Hybrid Check-in Suitcase
Product Specifications
- Type of Luggage: Medium Checked Suitcase
- Dimensions: 26 x 17 x 10 inches
- Weight: 11 pounds
- Available Colors: White, Black
Key Features
- Durable Surface: Made with a combination of metal and robust materials, this suitcase offers an extremely resilient hard shell.
- Corner Guards: Equipped with protective corner guards, safeguarding against handling and transportation damages.
- High Security: Features a TSA lock for secure travel.
- Smooth Mobility: Includes double-spinner wheels for easy navigation through crowded areas.
- Adjustable Handle: A telescopic handle with multiple stages for easy control.
- Organized Packing: Inside, it has wide flexible dividers for efficient organization.
Why do we like it?
Its hard-shell case is very tough and provides high protection for your belongings. The metal corner guards and TSA locks add to the security, ensuring safety on your trips.
Our Verdict
This suitcase is ideal for those needing high security. Although it costs a lot and lacks color choices, it has strong security features, such as metal corner guards and TSA locks. Its robust and damage-resistant shell ensures peace of mind while traveling.
Reason to Buy
- Ultra-Secure: Exceptionally safe hard-shell for a long usage period.
- Lifetime Defect Warranty: Offers a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects.
- Maximum Security: Ensures top-notch safety and satisfaction on travels.
Reason to Avoid
- Expensive: This suitcase comes with a high price tag.
- Limited Colors: Only available in black and white.
- Lack of Smart Features: Focuses more on security; lacks advanced features.
- Warranty Limitations: Only covers manufacturing defects, not accidental damages.
4. Rimowa Essential Lite Check-in Suitcase
Product Specifications
- Luggage Type: Large Checked Suitcase
- Dimensions: 30 x 20 x 10 inches
- Weight: 8 pounds
- Color Options: Beige, Dark Green, Black
Key Features
- Lightweight design compared to the previous Essential model.
- Hard-shell exterior ensures sturdiness.
- Robust corner guards for protection against rough handling.
- Eight spinner wheels provide smooth and quick maneuverability.
- Three-level telescopic handle makes it easy to move.
- Equipped with a TSA-approved lock for added security.
- Features zippered pockets and a mesh divider for organized storage.
Why do we like it?
This suitcase combines a sturdy, lightweight hard-shell design with solid corner guards and a TSA-approved lock, making it ideal for travelers carrying valuable items. While it comes with a higher price tag, the security features ensure peace of mind during travel.
Our Verdict
The Essential Lite version offers a highly durable and lighter alternative to the original Essential model. It provides excellent corner protection and a reliable locking system, ensuring secure travel. Although it lacks additional smart features and has limited color choices, it remains a top pick for those seeking robust and secure luggage options.
Reason to Buy
- Ultra-secure hard-shell design for a long-lasting lifespan.
- Maximum security for transporting valuables.
- Comes with a lifetime warranty.
Reason to Avoid
- Higher cost compared to other hard-side luggage brands.
- Limited color options.
- Only covered by a warranty for manufacturing defects.
5. Rimowa Essential Sleeve Suitcase
Product Specifications
- Luggage Type: Cabin Suitcase
- Dimensions: 22 x 16 x 9 inches
- Weight: 8 pounds
- Color Options: Grey, Black
Key Features
- Lightweight design with a front compartment for laptops
- Spacious compartments with flexible dividers for easy organization
- Eight spinner wheels for smooth maneuverability
- Free-stage adjustable telescopic handle for easy control and fast movement
- TSA lock for enhanced security against theft
- Lifetime warranty covering manufacturing defects
Why do we like it?
This suitcase comes with a front compartment for laptops and accessories, enhancing convenience and security for business travelers. The leather luggage tags, TSA-approved locks, and lifetime warranty add to its appeal. The robust hard-shell is perfect for travelers who prioritize luggage security during their trips.
Our Verdict
The Rimowa Essential Sleeve is a solid option with a unique front compartment for laptops, a feature not usual in most hard-side luggage. It’s sturdy enough to ensure the safety of valuable items. However, it lacks modern features like USB port charging, and its color choices are limited to grey and black. Despite being costly, this model is ideal for business travelers who value security.
Reason to Buy
- Damage-resistant hard shell with a front laptop sleeve
- Secure TSA lock and reinforced metallic corners
- Convenient and reliable for carrying valuables
Reason to Avoid
- Expensive compared to similar products
- Lacks smart features beyond security enhancements
- Limited warranty coverage for rough handling and transportation damage
- Only available in standard colors without variety
6. Rimowa Classic Suitcase
Product Specifications
- Type: Cabin Carry-on Suitcase
- Dimensions: 21 x 16 x 9 inches
- Weight: 9 pounds
- Colors Available: Black and Silver
Key Features
- Superior Durability: Made from high-quality aluminum and alloy materials, providing a robust and hard surface for added protection.
- Convenient Handles: Equipped with firm grip leather handles on the top and the side, allowing easy carrying without using the wheels.
- Smooth Mobility: Features eight spinner wheels, ensuring effortless rolling without applying too much pressure.
- Adjustable Handle: A telescopic handle that adjusts to different heights, making it easy to maneuver the suitcase on its wheels.
- Secure Locking System: Includes TSA-approved locks for added security.
- Ample Space: Boasts a wide capacity with flexible dividers, making it easy to organize and pack items.
Why do we like it?
The Rimowa Classic Suitcase stands out for its high durability due to its aluminum and metal construction. This makes it an excellent choice for business travelers or those carrying valuable items, as it offers maximum protection.
Our Verdict
This suitcase offers unparalleled durability and security. However, it maintains a traditional metal trunk appearance, which may not appeal to everyone. While it excels in strength and security, it lacks in design variety and additional features. It is ideal for those who prioritize the protection of their belongings.
Reason to Buy
- Extreme Durability: Constructed from metal materials, ensuring a hard shell that can endure tough conditions.
- Security: Offers several security features for peace of mind during travel.
- Lifetime Warranty: Provides a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects.
Reason to Avoid
- Minimal Features: Focuses heavily on durability and security, but lacks extra amenities.
- Limited Color Choices: Available only in traditional colors, namely black and silver.
- Conventional Design: Retains the classic metal trunk style, which might not suit everyone’s taste.
- High Cost: Priced steeply, making it inaccessible for budget-conscious travelers.
7. Away Classic Hard-Side Suitcase
Product Specifications
- Luggage Type: Medium Checked Suitcase
- Dimensions: 26 x 18 x 11 inches
- Capacity: 69 liters
- Weight: 10 pounds
- Color Choices: Black, Navy, Grey Coast, Olive Green, Seafoam Green, Navy Blue Glossy, Blue Wave Glossy, Red Garnet Glossy
Key Features
- Ultra-light material: Easy to carry and handle.
- Variety of colors: Available in multiple shades for easy identification.
- Spacious design: Includes mesh dividers, zippered pockets, and a detachable laundry bag.
- Smart security: Equipped with a TSA-approved lock.
- Convenient handles: Features an underside handle and a retractable handle for easy movement.
- Double-spinner wheels: Ensures smooth and quick rolling.
Why do we like it?
This suitcase combines a straightforward design with a lightweight and durable hard shell. It offers plenty of storage space, including a removable laundry bag and extra pockets. The TSA-approved lock enhances security. The lifetime warranty covers all functional damages and repairs, which justifies the higher price.
Our Verdict
The Away Classic Hard-Side Suitcase excels in security, durability, and storage capacity. Its lightweight material and various color options make it a user-friendly choice. Although it is more expensive, the features and quality may make it a worthwhile investment.
Reason to Buy
- Ultra-light and durable construction
- Multiple color options for easy recognition
- Enhanced security with a TSA lock
- Lifetime warranty covering functional damages
- Convenient with extra pockets and a detachable laundry bag
Reason to Avoid
- Higher price point compared to other brands
- No USB charging port
- Conventional Design: Retains the classic metal trunk style, which might not suit everyone’s taste.
- Lack of expandability
The Away Classic Hard-Side Suitcase stands out for its blend of durability, security, and ease of use.
8. Away Flex Hard-Side Suitcase
Product Specifications
- Luggage Type: Medium Checked Travel Bag
- Dimensions: 26 x 18 x 11 inches
- Capacity: 69 liters
- Expanded Cap: 75 liters
- Weight: 11 pounds
- Colors: Black, Navy Blue, Coast Blue, Dark Green, Grey, Pink Petal
Key Features
- Light, sturdy hard-shell design.
- Expandable zipper allows for up to 2 inches of space.
- Eight 360-degree spinner wheels for smooth movement.
- Equipped with TSA lock for security.
- Comes with a separate laundry bag.
- Available in multiple colors.
- Lifetime warranty with functional damage repairs.
Why do we like it?
The suitcase offers a great flex feature that allows an extra 2 inches of packing space. With a durable and hard exterior, complete with TSA lock protection and smooth-rolling spinner wheels, it ensures secure and comfortable travel. The lifetime warranty covering manufacturing defects and repairs is impressive, making it perfect for long-term use.
Our Verdict
This suitcase stands out for its lightweight yet durable construction and its customizable space. Features like the expandable zipper, security locks, and double-spinner wheels add to its appeal. The lifetime warranty is a significant advantage. Though it may be pricey, the investment is worthwhile for international travel.
Reason to Buy
- Ultra-light and durable construction
- Multiple color options for easy recognition
- Enhanced security with a TSA lock
- Lifetime warranty covering functional damages
- Convenient with extra pockets and a detachable laundry bag
Reason to Avoid
- Higher price point compared to other brands
- No USB charging port
- Lack of expandability
9. Away Aluminum Hard-Side Suitcase
Product Specifications
- Luggage Type: Medium Checked Travel Bag
- Dimensions: 26 x 18 x 11 inches
- Capacity: 69 liters
- Expanded Cap: 75 liters
- Weight: 11 pounds
- Colors: Black, Navy Blue, Coast Blue, Dark Green, Grey, Pink Petal
Key Features
- Constructed from aluminum, making it highly durable and long-lasting, though slightly heavier.
- Includes interior compression compartments and a laundry bag to keep items organized and dirty clothes separate.
- Equipped with eight spinner wheels for easy and stable movement.
- Comes with two TSA-approved locks for added security.
- Offers a lifetime warranty covering manufacturing defects and functional damage repairs.
Why do we like it?
The sturdy aluminum shell offers impressive security, and the suitcase’s lifetime warranty adds peace of mind. Its TSA locks and solid spinner wheels enhance its functionality. Though it’s on the pricier side, the suitcase provides ample space and reliable protection.
Our Verdict
This suitcase stands out for its durability and strength. It is on the heavier side and carries a high price tag, which might not suit everyone. The color options are limited to traditional black, silver, and pink. However, the extra security features and ample space make it an excellent choice for those needing robust and reliable luggage.
Reason to Buy
- Extremely durable with a hard-side design.
- Enhanced security with two TSA locks.
- Convenient interior compression compartments
- Lifetime warranty guarantees long-term use.
Reason to Avoid
- Heavier due to its aluminum construction
- High cost might be prohibitive for some.
- Limited color options available.
10. Away Everywhere Duffle Bag
Product Specifications
- Luggage Type: Medium Checked Travel Bag
- Dimensions: 26 x 18 x 11 inches
- Capacity: 69 liters
- Expanded Cap: 75 liters
- Weight: 11 pounds
- Colors: Black, Navy Blue, Coast Blue, Dark Green, Grey, Pink Petal
Key Features
- Constructed from aluminum, making it highly durable and long-lasting, though slightly heavier.
- Includes interior compression compartments and a laundry bag to keep items organized and dirty clothes separate.
- Equipped with eight spinner wheels for easy and stable movement.
- Comes with two TSA-approved locks for added security.
- Offers a lifetime warranty covering manufacturing defects and functional damage repairs.
Why do we like it?
This soft-sided duffel excels in its capacity to fit under seats or in airplane overhead compartments. Its spacious interior is complemented by a variety of pockets, both inside and out. The bag’s water-resistant exterior and lightweight material make it a convenient and durable choice for travelers. Additionally, the solid strap and return policy add value.
Our Verdict
This duffel bag is a premium option considering its price. However, its practicality and quality are commendable. With ample room, dedicated laptop space, and multiple organizational pockets, it is well-suited for use as a personal item or an additional carry-on. The brand’s flexible return and exchange policies enhance its appeal.
Reason to Buy
- Extremely lightweight construction.
- Ample space for personal items and valuables.
- Easily fits in small spaces, ideal for travel.
- Perfect for both short and long trips as a personal item bag.
- Returnable and exchangeable within a hundred days if unused.
Reason to Avoid
- High price point.
- Lacks advanced smart features.
- Limited color options.
- No wheels for added convenience.
11. Away Travel Backpack Soft-Side Luggage
Product Specifications
- Luggage Type: Large Soft-Side Backpack
- Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 10 inches
- Capacity: 45 liters
- Weight: 03 pounds
- Colors: Black, Dark Green
Key Features
- Constructed from ultra-light, tear-resistant, and water-resistant material for durability.
- Equipped with sturdy zipper closures, a mesh zipper divider, and multiple pockets.
- Detachable shoulder straps enable it to be converted from a backpack to a shoulder bag to luggage.
- Features a front laptop sleeve, spacious front compartment, various inner and outer pockets, and a mesh divider in the main compartment.
- Offers free returns and a replacement warranty for unused bags within 100 days of purchase.
Why do we like it?
This soft-side backpack stands out for its ultra-light and wear-resistant material. It offers ample storage, including a large front compartment, and can easily transform into a shoulder bag or luggage. Ideal for adventurous and outdoor trips, it also provides a free return warranty, giving added peace of mind. For more details on their return policy, please visit the company’s website.
Our Verdict
This backpack performs admirably as a multi-functional piece of luggage. It can convert into a shoulder bag and has large capacity similar to that of a carry-on suitcase. The various zippered pockets and mesh divider allow for organized packing. The zippers are strong and operate smoothly, reducing the risk of them getting stuck. Though a bit expensive, the backpack includes a free return and replacement warranty if unused, making it highly rated among users.
Reason to Buy
- Ultra-lightweight and convertible design: Can be used as a backpack, shoulder bag, or carry-on luggage.
- Large storage capacity: Includes inner and outer zippered pockets, mesh divider, front compartment, and laptop sleeve.
- Compact and space-saving: Can be easily stored in small spaces.
- Warranty: Comes with a free return and replacement policy.
Reason to Avoid
- High cost: More expensive compared to other backpacks.
- Limited color options: Only available in black and dark green.
- Lacks smart features: Does not include a USB charging port.
- No enhanced security: Does not offer additional security features.
12. Away Travel Tote Soft-Side Bag
Product Specifications
- Luggage Type: Medium Checked Travel Bag
- Dimensions: 26 x 18 x 11 inches
- Capacity: 69 liters
- Expanded Cap: 75 liters
- Weight: 11 pounds
- Colors: Black, Navy Blue, Coast Blue, Dark Green, Grey, Pink Petal
Key Features
- Constructed from ultra-light, tear-resistant, and water-resistant material for durability.
- Equipped with sturdy zipper closures, a mesh zipper divider, and multiple pockets.
- Detachable shoulder straps enable it to be converted from a backpack to a shoulder bag to luggage.
- Features a front laptop sleeve, spacious front compartment, various inner and outer pockets, and a mesh divider in the main compartment.
- Offers free returns and a replacement warranty for unused bags within 100 days of purchase.
Why do we like it?
The tote handbag is perfect for carrying personal items and additional accessories. It’s lightweight, water-resistant, and crafted from quality materials. It features enough space and extra pockets for small items and personal belongings. A strong strap or trolley sleeve allows it to be attached easily to luggage trolleys, enhancing mobility with spinner wheels. Offered in bright colors, it stands out in a crowd.
Our Verdict
This soft-side travel handbag is a cost-effective option for carrying additional accessories and small items that need to be easily accessible during travel. It’s ultra-lightweight with ample space and a trolley sleeve for easy adjustment with a luggage trolley. Available in various bright colors, it adds an appealing touch to your travel gear.
Reason to Buy
- Convenient Access: Ideal for quickly reaching tiny items and essentials while traveling or during picnics.
- Durable and Lightweight: Water-resistant and wear and tear-resistant.
- Variety of Colors: Available in multiple colors, making it visually appealing.
Reason to Avoid
- Lacks Zipper Closure: Does not include a zipper for secure closure.
- No Exterior Compartments: Lacks exterior compartments and expandable space.
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FAQ’s
What are the differences in durability between Away and Rimowa suitcases?
Rimowa suitcases are known for their exceptional durability. They feature multi-wheel designs and handles engineered to prevent any wobbling or leaning, even with heavy loads. The handles remain sturdy over time. Away suitcases are durable but may experience slight handle wobbling after years of use. Rimowa’s construction materials are generally higher quality, often translating to longer-lasting products.
How does the price of Away compare to that of Rimowa luggage?
Away suitcases are more affordable, starting at approximately $275 and reaching up to $645. In contrast, Rimowa luggage starts at around $700, with some models costing as much as $3,330. The higher price of Rimowa reflects its focus on luxury and premium craftsmanship.
Which offers better organization features, Away or Rimowa suitcases?
Away luggage is designed with multiple compartments and pockets, making it easy to organize belongings. Some models even feature a removable laundry bag and compression system. Rimowa cases offer dividers and compartments that are effective but tend to focus more on durability and design.
Are both Away and Rimowa suitcases compliant with TSA regulations?
Yes, both Away and Rimowa suitcases are compliant with TSA regulations. They meet the size requirements for carry-on luggage and are designed to pass through TSA security checks without issues. Both brands offer features like TSA-approved locks for added security.
What are the advantages of choosing an Away suitcase over Rimowa?
Away suitcases are generally more affordable and designed with practical features like built-in USB chargers and versatile compartments. The lightweight design makes them easy to carry. They are popular for frequent travelers who need functional, stylish, and budget-friendly options.
How do the warranty policies of Away and Rimowa compare?
Away offers a limited lifetime warranty that covers any damage to the shell, wheels, handles, zippers, and parts that function as intended. Rimowa provides a lifetime warranty as well, but it often requires registration and proof of purchase. Both warranties protect against manufacturing defects, but specifics may vary between brands.
