Away is a more budget-friendly option with a focus on durability and customer service, while Rimowa is a luxury brand known for its high-quality materials and design. The choice depends on individual preferences and budget considerations.
| Attribute | Away | Rimowa |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Primarily polycarbonate for hardside luggage; also offers aluminum and softside styles. Softside luggage is made of high-strength nylon with a water-repellent coating. | Aluminum, polycarbonate, and sometimes leather. Hybrid models combine polycarbonate with an aluminum frame. |
| Weight (empty) | Carry-ons: Around 7.5 to 8 pounds. The Bigger Carry-On weighs 7.4 to 7.9 pounds. The Large: 11.6 pounds. Aluminum Carry-On: 10.1 pounds. Softside Carry-On: Over 9 pounds. | Rimowa Essential Cabin S: Around 3.27-3.3 kg. Rimowa Original Cabin: 4.3 kg. Rimowa Topas (29-inch): 6.9 kg. Polycarbonate models are lighter than aluminum. |
| Dimensions (carry-on vs. checked) | Carry-on: 21.7 x 14.4 x 9 inches. Bigger Carry-On: 22.7 x 15.4 x 9.6 inches. The Large: Matches most airline checked bag dimension restrictions. | Carry-on: Cabin: 55 x 40 x 23 cm, Cabin S: 55 x 39 x 20 cm, Cabin Plus: 56 x 45 x 25 cm. Checked: Check-In M: 67 x 45 x 24 cm, Check-In L: 79.5 x 51 x 27.5 cm. |
| Capacity (volume in liters) | Carry-On: 39.8 liters. Bigger Carry-On: 47.9 liters. The Large: 99.2 liters. | Cabin: 35L, Cabin S: 34L, Original Cabin: 34.8L, Topas (29-inch): 82.0L |
| Wheel type | 360 spinner wheels. | Multiwheel system with ball-bearing mounted wheels and cushioned axels |
| Handle durability and adjustability | Telescopic handles. The newest carry-on version includes an additional grab handle underneath the wheels. | Telescopic handles engineered for seamless stage-free adjustment. Some handles are made of aluminum and wrapped in full-grain Italian leather. |
| Lock type | TSA-approved combination locks are built-in. | TSA-approved combination locks |
| Interior organization | Features a zippered side for organization, especially with packing cubes. Includes compression straps to secure belongings. Some models have a water-resistant laundry bag. | Height-adjustable Flex Dividers, zipped compartments and mesh pocket dividers |
| Warranty length and coverage | Away offers a limited lifetime warranty that covers damage to the shell, wheels, handles, and zippers. The battery in older models was covered by a two-year limited warranty. The warranty does not cover misuse, wear and tear, or cosmetic damage. | Suitcases purchased after July 25, 2022: lifetime guarantee covering functional aspects. Suitcases purchased before July 25, 2022: 5-year guarantee if registered online, otherwise, a 2-year guarantee. All non-wheeled Rimowa products: 2-year guarantee. |
| Water resistance | Canvas, nylon, and leather components are naturally water-resistant but not fully waterproof. The softside luggage has a water-repellent coating. | Rimowa Essential line repels water, polycarbonate shell is virtually waterproof. |
| Scratch resistance | Polycarbonate shells are scratch-resistant. The carry-on aced scratch-resistance tests, showing minimal scuffs. Glossy finishes may show scratches more easily, but they can be buffed out with a magic eraser. | Polycarbonate models are more scratch-resistant than aluminum. Polished exterior of the Essential line is prone to scratching. |
| Actual weight vs. advertised weight after packing | Not available | Not available |
| How well does the luggage hold up to rough handling by airport baggage handlers? | The polycarbonate shell is durable and well-suited to the rigors of baggage claim. | Not available |
| Is the handle comfortable to grip and easy to maneuver through crowded spaces? | Some reviewers find the handles less comfortable and sturdy compared to other carry-ons. The handles can be difficult to grab. | Telescopic handles are comfortable and smooth |
| How effective is the locking mechanism in deterring theft? | Away luggage has built-in TSA-approved combination locks. | TSA-approved combination locks |
| Does the interior organization help to keep belongings secure and organized during travel? | The interior is well-organized for easy packing. The design includes compression straps and compartments. | Flex Dividers help keep packed items in place |
| How does the luggage perform in different weather conditions (e.g., rain, snow)? | The luggage is water-resistant, making it suitable for rainy conditions. | Not available |
| Is the luggage prone to scratches or dents, and how easily can they be cleaned or repaired? | The luggage is prone to scratches and scuff marks. Minor scuffs can be removed with a magic eraser. | Durable shell can handle getting roughed up, but it is prone to scratches. Aluminum models may dent. The Essential line's polished exterior scratches somewhat easily |
| How does the luggage's size and weight comply with airline carry-on restrictions? | The Bigger Carry-On slightly exceeds carry-on luggage restrictions on domestic carriers. | Not available |
| How does the warranty process work, and have you had a positive experience with customer service? | Away offers a limited lifetime warranty. The customer service is excellent. | Some customers have had positive experiences with repairs and customer service |
| How does the luggage compare to other brands in terms of value for money? | Away luggage is comparable in price to Travelpro and Samsonite. It is more affordable than Tumi and Rimowa. | Rimowa is considered a luxury brand, and there are alternative brands that offer similar quality at a lower price |
| Price | From $225 for small softside carry-ons to $435 for larger hardside checked bags. | Prices start at $900 for a polycarbonate carry-on and around $1,400 for an aluminum suitcase. |