Side-by-side comparison based on expert reviews and community consensus.
Away The Carry-On
Best OverallTravelpro Maxlite Air
Best ValuePrice
$275-$325
$150-$250
Summary
The most consistently recommended hardshell carry-on across Reddit and expert reviews. Polycarbonate shell, clean styling, and a price point that undercuts premium rivals without sacrificing durability.
The lightest hardshell in its class with real-world durability proven by heavy travelers. Reddit frequent flyers consistently praise it as the best bang-for-buck hardshell on the market.
Pros
- Polycarbonate shell retains shape and protects contents well
- Consistently recommended by both Wirecutter and Reddit communities
- Stylish design that blends in at airports
- Competitive price compared to premium alternatives like Briggs & Riley
- Exceptionally lightweight construction compared to competitors
- Praised by heavy travelers for holding up beautifully over time
- Affordable price point relative to build quality
- Travelpro brand trusted by airline crews — strong industry pedigree
Cons
- Wirecutter notes soft-sided bags are generally more durable
- More expensive than budget options like Samsonite Freeform
- Built-in battery (on some models) can cause airline issues
- Warranty not as comprehensive as Briggs & Riley's lifetime coverage
- Airline damage only covered for first year per Wirecutter testing
- Less brand cachet than Away or Rimowa for style-conscious travelers
Our take
Away is the default recommendation for a reason — it hits the sweet spot of price, looks, and durability that no other hardshell matches at this tier. If you only buy one hardshell, this is it.
Travelpro makes luggage for flight crews, and the Maxlite Air shows it — this thing is light, tough, and affordable. It's the pick for people who want quality without paying Away or Briggs & Riley prices.
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