Those "expansion" zippers are actually "compression" zippers. You're supposed to pack with the zipper open, then after you close your bag, you compress your bag by zipping the compression zipper back up. Cheers.

I work for TSA Baggage and Checkpoint, I will say that most damaged bags are hard shell. TSA does not damage the bags as we dont throw them. As far as what the ground workers that throw bags onto the aircrafts do, no comment lol. Also, the amount you pay doesnt reflect anything. Those LOUIS VUITTON and GUCCI bags get damaged the same. You have to think that it's all plastic... $5 plastic or $5,000 plastic makes no difference. TSA locks are great, but, as a traveller, I never felt the need to lock my bags as they are always with me or the airlines. Most stolen items are the entire bag themselves locked or not. If someone wants access to your bag, it's going to get opened once they steal the entire bag. Heres what I say is better: 1) Soft Shell because the zipper is usually in the front and you dont have to worry about two sides at the same time when the hardshells are split in half. 2) No Gimicky features like a pull out closet or things that add more weight. (For the love of humanity, don't get those electronic suit cases that drive around) 3) TSA locks are great when we need to look inside, and you do not want your bags damaged. Again, no real need to lock your bags unless you're staying at a hotel and want to keep everything inside your bag. Again 2x they will steal the entire thing as opposed to grabbing a few items. 4) Rotating wheels!!! Why the f* do they still make bags with stationary wheels? You can pull and push your rotating wheels the same plus more. 5) The less pockets, the easier it is to find and pack everything. 6) LIGHTWEIGHT. MINIMAL IS KEY. I know they try to market all of these extra features with neat pockets and extra tech like USB ports. Don't be that douche bag. BUT BUT BUT BUT... I will say, that MONOS bag you recommend is really cool. The anti-shake design of the handle is already the best feature for me personally. That blows the other ones out of the water with that feature alone.

My wife and I just got back three days ago after a 25-day trip around the UK and Ireland with 2 Level8 textured carry-ons we purchased right before the trip. We chose carry-on sized bags not so much for the airplane, but for the ability to fit into the luggage compartments of compact car rentals, which we felt more comfortable driving on the tiny roads and negotiating the narrow ramps and tiny parking garage spaces in Europe. After being in the baggage compartments on five flights, lugged around in three rental cars, and checked in and out of 15 hotels, we've got nothing but love for these bags. With available discounts, we got two bags for just a little more than the price of one of the other of your top picks, so definitely agree they have the most bang for the buck. We also got two sets of the Level8 organizers, which after looking around at other choices, we ended up purchasing because they are sized exactly right to fit into the Level8 suitcase. Again, price of one bag plus the organizer set came out cheaper than the price of one of the other bags. To me, having that organizer set is comparable to the 'bells and whistles' features of the other finalists. I'll finish by saying that some of the tips in your other videos were extremely helpful and contributed greatly to the success of our trip. Thanks!!!

Great vid! Would like to add - the extendable zipper works for the winter trips, which can mean bulkier clothes. It allows you to extend the bag, seamlessly close it, and THEN close the extender without struggle. And this is coming from someone who is deathly allergic to overpacking.

EXCELLENT Review - I am just so impressed with your clear guidance and sense of humor Nik!! I have been researching this same topic for the last 2 months. I did end up choosing Monos and it is a gorgeous (and high quality) bag. I also got the clear luggage cover. Thanks for all your value!

The Samsonite Freeform Carry-on is a worthy contender to add to this list. I own a monos carry on which I love and my wife has the samsonite. I don’t find them significantly different to justify the additional premium for the monos. You can get the Samsonite for $150 and it is just as sturdy and well built. Also, with Samsonite’s network of physical stores, getting the bag repaired would be much easier. My friends with Monos and Away bags had warranty claims that took months to get resolved and in Away’s case, they sent the part which my friend then had to take to a local store to get installed and had to pay for the installation. It is interesting that most carry-on comparisons on the internet are not even considering legacy brands like Samsonite and I myself didn’t consider it when I was getting my carry on but after using my wife’s carryon on a few trips, I would recommend Samsonite just as much as I would recommend the Monos.

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So well done! I appreciated you testing all sorts of features, especially the wheels on brick sidewalk. Thank you for the super content! :D

I was so glad to see July included! Most reviews are limited to just Away and Monos with the occasional mention of Level8. I have the July carry-on light, also in Moss, which I have traveled with for the last 2 years. At just 1.8 kg or 3.9 lbs, it might be the lightest thing out there, but it does only hold 32 liters. I don't mind that it is small because it's impossible to overpack when you only have 32 liters. I have had no complaints about the handle, which is only 6" wide in this model, but with the case being so small and light, the little bit of wiggle is probably less noticeable than in the regular carry on size. If I were to use a larger carry on, I have a 13 year old Samsonite that weighs 6.8 pounds and has traveled the world and still looks pretty new, so I probably wouldn't invest in a newer carry on, as much as I love all the new colors. Thanks for the great video. I love your honesty and your videos are always so fun.

I got a Level 8 Road Runner in Aug 2021 and have used it on over 100 flights. I love it, and my wife bought one a year ago. We have no regrets! And would not consider any others. What you need matters most but if this looks good, I think you’ll love it too.

Thanks! Love your efficiency. Watching you is like getting a bullet point todo list!!!

I bought the Monos Plus a couple years ago after doing a ton of research. I absolutely love it. My husband loved mine so much that I bought him one. We've taken the Plus international and had no issues. It's such a smooth suitcase, there's no issue moving it around. I always recommend it to friends who are looking for new suitcases.

Awesome video! I did months of research as well for a 10 day Europe trip October 2022. I was in between beis, away, monos and July. Ultimately narrowed it down to July and monos and went with monos since it was $50-70 less. I adore my monos carry on! I’ve used it several times since then and it’s perfect

Great review. Thorough, comprehensive & straight to the point in this video. Thanks for your research.

I have been watching so many of these bigger selection comparison videos, and I appreciate them all. Your video, however, has to be the best amongst them. You are pointing out some concerns that I haven't considered before, and that other videos missed, such as the width of the luggage handle affecting trolley pass-through. I think I'm sold on the Monos, with the Level 8 being a close contender due to its interior set-up. Thank you for all your work!

Terrific video! So just like you, I have recently done extensive research on carry on bags lately- minus the actually trying them all out in person part. :D I am glad that you confirmed that my final purchase, just a few weeks ago, was the right choice- the Monos carry on! I am really liking this bag. There are tons of bags out there and your video really helps to get down to the details of choosing one over another. Beis would've been more of a contender, if the sizing was actually carry on size; it would be terrible to be charged as a check on suddenly if I get to the airport and they enforce their sizing restrictions. Anyway, I have not been able to travel with it yet, but the Monos is a solid build. The quality, feel, and details put it in a great tier. Gotta love those compression straps. Keep up the good work!

So happy to see this video! I have been checking your KZfaq channel for the report. You crushed it! Totally appreciate the $ spent, info and research. I absolutely love my Beis bag and have always thought (this isn’t really a carry-on). I am checking out the Monos case and will use your link. Well done and thank you again.

I agree with the Monos being put on the top of the list. Not only because I own one, but have taken my Plus carry-on with me to Chicago and LA these last 4 months. Both times unfortunately I was forced to check it in because the had "ran out" of head space compartment. Both times the Monos came out like a Champ, bruised and battered with scratches, but firm and sturdy when I pick it up at baggage claim. Took a magic eraser to the scratches and was good as new.

When I was looking for a new carry on bag, I went back and forth between Monos and July, and ultimately it came down to the weight factor. July was the lightest which is important to me as a solo female traveler. I traveled through 4 countries in Europe with it and it did very well. Overall it is a great bag. Thanks for the review!

I’ve had a Calpak for over five years now. Bought it from Marshall’s for $40. Still works great! Nothing has broken.

I am absolutely delighted to have found your channel. You both do a fantastic job! Your content is exceptional. Your presentation is extremely professional. Your articulation of the points you make is concise, informative and interesting. We are getting ready to take our first trip to Europe this fall, and your videos have been among the most helpful we have found. I just wanted to thank you for your advice and insight and encourage you to keep up the great work. I will recommend your channel to anyone needing some travel direction and advice. Look forward to watching more of your additions soon. Thanks again!

Excellent video! Thanks so much for the thorough reviews and comparisons!

I have travelled the world and gone through tons of luggage. I have been using the Monos carryon almost exclusively (when not using my Cotopaxi backpack) this past year and it is the best roller bag I've ever had. It has been through the wringer and handles cobblestone streets like a champ. Not only is it the lightest but it holds a ridiculous amount of clothes etc.

Thank you so much for putting all of this together! I have been meaning to buy me a monos one but was unsure. I will use your link to get me one. Thank you for the research you did. I hope this video will go viral! Thanks again!

Travelled for a month in May and was on 10 different flights in different countries. Local and international. The Monos Luggage is a trooper. They have lifetime warranty too.

Nik, thanks for the video. Just ordered the Monos Carryon Plus and an accessory using your link. You made my decision easy. Good luck in your travels.

Well done. The organization is fantastic, detailed excellent, and concise, you didn't drag this out like so many of your competitors. You clearly spent a great deal of time on the script as well. Again, Well done.

The editing on this video is fantastic! Well done!

100% No on the Monos! I’ve done a lot of carryon travel the past few years and it does not roll well and the telescoping handle constantly gets stuck. 100% no

Great info, Thanks! I had been considering a model from a couple of those manufacturers. Appreciate the details you shared.

As a fellow emerging travel creator, this is an amazing video! The fact that you spent all of your own money to make this video shows how much you love your people!! Goals! And I use the Level 8 and looove and feel the same about the wheels

So glad to have found this video! I had been eyeing the Beis and had similar thoughts about it being a carry-on! Although I am also eyeing their weekender bag too! A few things I might add to your video is packing the same items in each bag to see how it all fits, and then testing the weight of the bag post-packing. I usually carry-on a cloth bag because then tend to be lighter in weight and when you are trying to heft the bag in an airplane overhead compartment, the hard case bags are a little heavier. I also like bags with a shoe compartment, and none of the ones you featured have that. Another thing I would add to your video is the warranty offered by the manufacturer. I know the Away bag has a pretty friendly warranty so if the zipper breaks or a handle breaks, you can send it back for a replacement bag. Not sure though how their warranties stack up and whether or not its a hassle or they take the suit cases back with no questions asked. I buy a LOT of suitcases from either Marshall's or TJ Maxx (known at TK Maxx in the UK), and find LOTS of quality bags that are all under $100.

Great video!! Appreciate this type of content. I actually just purchased my first monos bag last week and excited to take it on 2 upcoming trips!😊

I bought 2 Monos carry ones and 2 medium check ins last week. Looking forward to using them on an upcoming trip!! Your video was very informative!

this was immensely helpful and so well researched and argued. truly appreciate the effort

I have both Away and Monos carry-on, you nailed it! The away zippers annoyed me so much, and when i packed too heavy, it becomes a work out in my forearm to pull. Love this vidoe, thank you for sharing!

Super review! Extremely helpful. Many thanks.

This is an awesome review 😀👏🏾! Monos carryon bag will be the bag I look at buying down the road.Keep the awesome information coming !

I’m going to Greece in October and bought the Level 8 20” several months ago because the 22” was to heavy empty for my 67 y/o arms to lift over my head 😂 loved your review ❤

Thanks for this! Helpful review.

Great video! I bought the Beis carryon a few months back and I really like it. I also have used it as a carryon on Alaska, Southwest, and United (I was kind of surprised TBH that it didn’t get flagged for checking at the gate); neither time I had expanded though. The wheels are super smooth and I just like everything about it. For me when I was purchasing it came down to Monos, and Beis. I am really happy with my choice but I do know it is a bit larger but I do think for the price it is a really nice bag.

I've been traveling with my Calpak Tustin carry on for years! For 8 years! Never had an issue with it and I also use it to seat on it while I'm waiting in line at the airport XD LOVE IT!!!!

Thank you for all the work you put into this video

I was secretly hoping your number one pick was the one you selected as I purchased it about a month ago! I’m still trying to find the best way to pack on the compression side but overall I’m so happy with the Monos!

Excellent video and I had already purchased my Level 8 Luminous Textured Carry On in Navy and I’m really impressed with this bag for the price point. I am currently in Florence Italy, having arrived after 3 days in London and this bag has rolled through both cities, particularly the uneven stone streets in Florence like a dream. I was able to pack for 10 days and followed a previous video you had with tips on how to select items which can be used in multiple combinations and it really helped me focus on my choices and it totally worked. Your beat tip though was when you said if considering an item to ask yourself if it’s something you wear regularly and often when not traveling, and if it isn’t, then why even consider it because it’s going to be the same wherever you are traveling to, so, don’t even consider it. Sounds sensible, but, hearing it makes you recognize the obviousness. I enjoy your channel and appreciated the video you had about Florence with your wife. Great tips I’ve used in planning and now using while I’m actually here, staying right next to Santa Maria Novella Church and Piazza. Gorgeous city.

I really appreciate the time and effort you put into making this comparison video. I'm seriously thinking about a new international-sized carryon. Monos was on my short list and your report helps me a lot.

Great video and very concise with information. I did a lot of research on some of these bags and can certainly agree with you on the bottom 3. Thanks for the video!

Great video!!! I started watching hoping that my personal choice would not make the worst list and it did not it was your top choice. I recently switched from tom bihn as I was finding that backpack style was getting uncomfortable as I have gotten older. I love everything about the monos so far.

Bought the Monos bag using your link. Thank you for the content. Very helpful

I have an Away Carry On and absolutely adore it! I recommend to everyone I know! That said, I don’t have any experience with the other bags and have noticed the zipper issue on the Away. I also managed to break one of the compression straps where it connects to the bag but I really put stress on it and as mentioned plan to have it fixed under the warranty.

Thank you - awesome review and I appreciate the time and effort you put into this video!

Thank you. I have the Away and she’s been very satisfactory. Used her for about two years, no issues with the zipper, wheels or handles. I’m open to trying the monos but really want to keep this for a long time. Again, thank you

I have an Away Luggage, this exact suitcase that was tested to be exact. One of the perks of the Away is it has a built in (removable) charger for your gadgets, cell phones, etc. I haven’t tried the Monos and don’t know if it has this feature, but it’s a nice perk if you ask me. The luggage suits me fine and has gone on as much as 21 day international trips, no probs. I’m with Away!

Very comprehensive and fair reviews. Thank you!

Phew, I got a Monos and love it. Glad to hear it’s not just me. Great video and breakdowns.

Thanks for the video it is definitely a well worked on clip that gave me a very good advice on which bag to shop. The criteria you used were all well highlighted and the recommended best overall Monos is the one I am going to buy. So thank you again for a good recommendation and a well thought out video !

I purchased the monos for my husband and myself for Christmas! Thanks for the review. Made me feel like I did the right thing. We are off to Ireland to put them to the test. Wish I had ordered with you to get the link. Thanks for doing the video though. I will share it with others. ❤

I love my BÉIS carry on. I’ve travelled within Canada and internationally and never had any issues. It always fits in the cabin

Great video, very informative. Was considering the Monos and your review confirmed it was the best choice for me. Used your link to purchase two. Thank you!

Thank you for the review and recommendations! IMHO, the ultimate test for wheeled bags is to take them up/down steep hills and cobblestone streets. That's when you will know whether your bag can handle different pavements. I also wish these bags would come with "brakes" to lock the wheels in place when on a steep hill.

love your energy man and thank you for putting together this detailed video. buying my first monos for BF

I bought Monos carry-on in the Fall. Love the quality of the luggage. I also bought the next size up for when I need a check-in bag. I bought cloth covers for these at Amazon to protect. Well worth it

thorough, entertaining, to the point. Good work per usual

I have had nothing but good experiences with Monos bags; I had an issue where TSA has broken the "TSA accessible lock" and Monos helped send over a replacement locking mechanism, which I was able to receive and install on my own. Monos is communicative and stands behind their products. I have certainly had family notice my bags roll, stow, store, and remain undamaged far easier than cheaper or lesser bags. Just my two cents as a happy user; I have tried the Carry-on, Carry-on Pro Plus, and both Checked bag sizes.

Came in clutch! I was just needing to buy a carry on, and this would help me choose what's best for me. Thank you!

This was super helpful. Thank you so much!

I have been using the Monos for 2 years and I picked it for the exact same reasons you did. Its handle works great for personal bags.

I bought the Away Carry-on a few years ago when it seems every influencer was promoting it. It's been a good bag and I'm glad it at least made your top 3. If I ever need to replace it I would definitely consider Monos.

I have the monos carry on plus because I travel Southwest the most. It is a great quality bag. Your review was sincere, genuine and exceptional. Considering getting a regular size carry on and was looking at the July brand. Now I’m not so sure. I thought I’d get something different. 🤷‍♀️

Very helpful! Thanks for making this video. 😊

Such a well made video, no bs, straight to it, Well done

Really appreciate this video! I was tempted by Away, but looking into Monos now. One feature of Away that I haven't seen on other carry ons is the underside handle on the bag itself. This is very cool because you can easily grab your bag from almost any side. I haven't seen this on any other website and didn't see it mentioned in the video.

Thank you so very much! I have been watching videos, reading reviews, and have been trying to make a decision on which suitcase would be best for me. I had a Level 8 that I wanted to love until the handle gave out on the first trip. The trip was of very light use to the suitcase (only one stop). I have read that any of them can be difficult and expensive to return due to size so I am hoping this purchase is going to last for many many trips!

Love the thorough review!

I came to this video after your carry on closet review and got so much important information! After watching both videos my decision was much easier. I did purchase your top pick from Monos and used your link so hopefully that helps you! Thanks for helping me 😊

Great video loved the lack of bias when reviewing the bags.

Excellent review. thank you so much. Do you have suggestions for a personal item/under the seat bag that can carry some additional clothes as well as a book, glasses, some papers, an iPad, etc?

Great review, I have all Monos luggage, two carry -ons, my wife took my first one. That gave me the opportunity to purchase the carry on plus, which is my go to for short trips and I have a medium check bag for weeklong trips., and just purchased my wife the Monos large check bag, she packs more than me. Mono's my jam!

About 6 months ago, I did a ton of online research and compared several of the bags you featured. I settled on the Mono's for the very same reasons you did: Quality of exterior/interior materials, handle and wheels. I purchased mine from Nordstroms as they had the best price. Limited color choices but closer to the $250US range. Only thing I do not like is the handle release button that is located under the handle. When I am moving, steering or pulling the suitcase my fingers oftentimes makes the handle collapse down because of the location of this button. I personally would prefer the button on top of the handle. Other than that, this suitcase is absolutely perfect.

Great video, thanks for putting in the work!

I watched a lot of videos on luggage, but without a high end budget and only 3 or so flying trips a year, I went with Luggex. It seems to compare well with a few on this video. Thanks for doing these comparisons!

Lol! Thanks for doing this review. I have the exact Monos luggage. I was debating if I needed to get another carry on and I’m glad I chanced upon your video. My Monos was great when I was in Asia early this year but I was curious if Away or July were better. Looks like I’m sticking what I have for now. 😊

I love this review! I’ve been wanting to purchase a new carryon. The monos and away were my top choices but I’ve been convinced. Monos it is 👍🏼👍🏼

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Great review. I use my Beis carry on all the time. I have only had to check it once as I was on a smaller airline. But at no cost. I wanted it get the Monos but their matching bags did not fit what I wanted in a bag. But they are beautiful. I was considering Away glad I didn’t. ❤

I've never had an issue using the Beis carry on except on a small plane from Singapore to Malaysia, but they just checked in my bag at the gate and didn't charge me for it. I love how much the Beis suitcase fits - I've gone on multiple 3 week trips just it. My favorite thing is the large capacity as I'm an overpacker and want to bring all options with me.

No lie, I JUST hit the purchase button on the Level 8 Textured Carry On after some thorough research on my own (including crushing disappointment that Solgaard lost their minds and upped their bags by $100) and got the email notification for this video - feeling very solid about my purchase now!

Bought my monos with the laptop sleeve last year, have taken it on que flights and no quality complaints at all. Best carry on ive ever had, although i do wish it had the same wheels as my rimowa check ins

I love my minis carry on. My husband and I can both pack into their smallest carry on size for a week and still extra space. I don’t struggle to put in the overhead alone. Was worth every penny

Thanks for the great comparison. I would really like to see some bags that have expansion, though. I have gone on 5 week tours with carry-on only. I flew KLM with a strict size limit and meager weight allowance, so a smaller, light bag was mandatory on the plane. The expansion was important to me, though. I wore my bulkier shoes and and jacket on the plane. However, when traveling from town to town on the tour, I didn't want to wear those articles on the warmer days. It was nice to be able to expand my bag and to pack them. When you do another comparison, I'd love to see bags with expansions. Thanks.

Great video! I bought the Monos Carry-On Pro Plus bag 2 years ago and haven't looked back! It's a game changer. Loved it so much bought their Check-In medium and it's taken a beating but still keeps rolling!

Great video! The Thanos cameo cracked me upp!! Great way to add personality.

I have been traveling a lot lately and my two carry-ons are the Samsonite S’cure and the Rimowa Essential Cabin. I prefer the Samsonite for international travel because it fits on all bag sizers of all airlines.

I went with the monos based on your video. Looking forward to getting it. I used the link from your site. Well done video.

The nice thing with the bags with the expansion --- you can use that as compression! Pack your bag with it opened up -- then zip shut to compress the contents. Thanks for the terrific videos and information you provide.

My husband and I just returned from a 3 1/2 week trip through Switzerland, traveling by planes, trains, and buses. We used the July carry ons and a personal item bag each. Rolled the bags over cobblestone streets, asphalt streets, up escalators, over carpeted floors, and rough tile floors. We packed and unpacked for stays in 3 cities. The bags performed flawlessly and were so easy and comfortable to use. I would highly recommend them!

I’m glad I watched this video even though I bought a carryon bag last year. I chose the Monos which was your #1. I haven’t used it yet because I’ve had to take a check- in on my last 3 trips. I can’t wait to try it out. Now I’m in the market for a new check-in bag.

Nice job! I would up buying the Monos Hybrid carry on and love it! I liked the aluminum frame and aluminum corners.

It’s unfortunately (for me) that hard shell suitcases are overtaking the market, because the pros and cons still doesn’t outweigh the versatility and functionality of a soft shell. Even for waterproofing reasons…I’ve seen a lot of busted up hardsells at baggage claim, so durability and water sealing doesn’t seem all that great imo. Please luggage companies, DO NOT stop making quality soft shell options. There are still customers who prefer it over the new disposable trend!

This was so helpful - thanks!