Choosing the right luggage can elevate your travel experience from stressful to seamless. When it comes to premium travel gear, two names consistently rise to the top: Away and Rimowa. Both brands are celebrated for their durability, style, and innovative features, but they cater to slightly different traveler needs and budgets.
If you’re weighing your options between these two titans of the travel industry, you’re likely seeking a blend of functionality and luxury. Understanding the nuances of Away luggage versus Rimowa will help you make an informed decision that aligns with your travel aspirations and practical requirements.
This comparison dives deep into what makes each brand stand out, from materials and design to price points and warranty. Prepare to discover which of these esteemed luggage brands is the perfect travel companion for your next adventure.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Away Luggage | Rimowa |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Durable polycarbonate shell | Lightweight aluminum or polycarbonate |
| Wheels | Smooth-gliding, 360-degree spinner wheels | Multi-wheel system for effortless rolling |
| Handle | Telescopic, multi-stop handle | Telescopic, adjustable handle |
| Lock | TSA-approved combination lock | TSA-approved combination lock |
| Interior Organization | Compression system, zippered pockets | Straps and dividers for organization |
| Expandability | Some models offer expandability | Limited expandability on most models |
| Weight | Lightweight construction | Extremely lightweight, especially aluminum models |
| Durability | Resistant to scratches and impacts | Renowned for extreme durability and longevity |
| Design Aesthetics | Modern, minimalist, and colorful options | Iconic grooved design, timeless luxury |
| Warranty | Limited lifetime warranty | Limited lifetime warranty |
| Built-in Charger | Optional removable charger on some models | Not typically included |
| Water Resistance | Water-resistant shell | Highly water-resistant, especially aluminum |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Durability & Materials
- Away Luggage: Constructed from a German polycarbonate shell, it’s designed to be both lightweight and resilient against impacts. The scratch-resistant matte finish helps maintain its appearance. While durable for most travel, it may show scuffs over time with heavy use.
- Rimowa: Known for its iconic grooved aluminum or advanced polycarbonate shells, Rimowa luggage is exceptionally robust and built to withstand rigorous travel. The aluminum models develop a unique patina, while polycarbonate is highly impact-resistant. These are often considered industry-leading in terms of longevity and toughness.
- Winner: Rimowa
Wheels & Maneuverability
- Away Luggage: Features 360-degree spinner wheels that are generally smooth and quiet, making it easy to navigate through airports. They offer good maneuverability on flat surfaces. However, they can sometimes struggle on uneven terrain or when overloaded.
- Rimowa: Equipped with their proprietary “Multiwheel” system, Rimowa’s wheels are renowned for their exceptional smoothness and silent operation. They glide effortlessly across various surfaces, offering superior control and stability. This system is a significant advantage for frequent travelers.
- Winner: Rimowa
Organization & Interior
- Away Luggage: Offers a well-thought-out interior with a compression system to pack more, a removable and washable liner, and various pockets for organization. The interior is designed to maximize packing space and keep belongings tidy. It’s practical for most travelers’ needs.
- Rimowa: Features a more minimalist interior, often with a focus on providing a clean and protected space for belongings. Some models include adjustable straps or divider systems, but generally, they prioritize a streamlined approach. This can be a pro for those who prefer to pack with their own organizers.
- Winner: Away Luggage
Weight
- Away Luggage: Tends to be lighter than many traditional suitcases, especially the polycarbonate models. This is a significant advantage for adhering to airline weight restrictions and for ease of lifting. The weight is well-balanced for its size.
- Rimowa: Aluminum models can be heavier due to the material, though their polycarbonate options are competitive. While some may find them slightly heavier, the robust construction often justifies the weight for the durability offered.
- Winner: Away Luggage
Smart Features & Charging
- Away Luggage: Several models include a removable internal battery pack that allows for charging devices on the go, a popular feature for tech-savvy travelers. This is a convenient addition for keeping phones and tablets powered up. The battery is TSA-compliant.
- Rimowa: Generally does not include integrated smart features like charging ports. Rimowa focuses on the core luggage experience. While some might miss this feature, it keeps the design cleaner and potentially lighter.
- Winner: Away Luggage
Design & Aesthetics
- Away Luggage: Boasts a clean, modern, and minimalist design with a range of attractive color options. The aesthetic is understated and functional, appealing to a broad audience. It’s stylish without being overly flashy.
- Rimowa: Is iconic for its distinctive grooved aluminum design, which is instantly recognizable and associated with luxury and heritage. The aesthetic is timeless, sophisticated, and commands attention. It’s a statement piece for many travelers.
- Winner: Rimowa
Price & Value
- Away Luggage: Positioned in the mid-to-high range, Away offers a good balance of features, durability, and design for its price point. It’s often seen as a premium option that provides excellent value for its quality. The direct-to-consumer model helps manage costs.
- Rimowa: Is a luxury brand with a significantly higher price point. The cost reflects the premium materials, craftsmanship, and brand prestige. While an investment, it’s often considered a lifetime purchase for those who can afford it.
- Winner: Away Luggage
Warranty & Customer Service
- Away Luggage: Offers a generous limited lifetime warranty and a 100-day trial period, demonstrating confidence in their product. Their customer service is generally responsive and aims to resolve issues effectively. This provides peace of mind for buyers.
- Rimowa: Provides a limited lifetime warranty for its products, emphasizing their commitment to quality and durability. They have a reputation for excellent customer service and repair services, ensuring longevity for their high-value luggage.
- Winner: Tie
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Overall Value | Away Luggage |
| Ultimate Durability | Rimowa |
| Modern Design & Features | Away Luggage |
| Luxury & Heritage | Rimowa |
| Innovative Add-ons (e.g., charger) | Away Luggage |
| Timeless Aesthetics | Rimowa |
What They Have in Common
- Tsa-Approved Locks: Both brands prioritize security by incorporating TSA-approved combination locks, allowing for easy inspection by security personnel without damage to the luggage.
- Smooth Rolling Wheels: You can expect a smooth and effortless travel experience with both Away and Rimowa luggage, as both feature high-quality spinner wheels designed for easy maneuverability through airports and various terrains.
- Durable Shell Construction: Both brands utilize robust materials for their shells, whether it’s polycarbonate or aluminum, to protect your belongings from the rigors of travel and resist impacts.
- Telescopic Handles: Adjustable telescopic handles are standard on both Away and Rimowa luggage, allowing travelers of different heights to comfortably pull their bags.
- Interior Organization Features: While the specific systems differ, both brands offer interior organization solutions to help you pack efficiently and keep your items tidy during your journey.
- Lifetime Warranties: A testament to their confidence in product quality, both Away and Rimowa typically offer limited lifetime warranties, providing peace of mind for your investment.
Away Luggage Vs Rimowa Buying Guide
Durability and Materials
Away luggage is known for its robust polycarbonate shells, designed to withstand the rigors of travel. While durable, they may show scuffs and scratches more readily than higher-end materials. Rimowa, on the other hand, often features aluminum or advanced polycarbonate, offering superior scratch resistance and a premium feel. The aluminum models are exceptionally durable and develop a unique patina over time, signaling a higher investment in longevity. (See Also: Adobe Pro Vs Docusign )
Price and Value Proposition
Away positions itself as a premium, yet accessible, brand. Their pricing reflects a balance between quality materials and modern design, making it a strong contender for frequent travelers seeking a stylish and reliable option without the extreme cost of luxury brands. Rimowa sits at the pinnacle of luxury luggage, with prices reflecting its heritage, artisanal craftsmanship, and premium materials like aerospace-grade aluminum. The value is in its unparalleled durability, timeless design, and status symbol appeal.
Features and Functionality
Away excels in user-centric features, including integrated USB charging ports, TSA-approved locks, and thoughtfully organized interiors with compression systems. Their design prioritizes practicality for the modern traveler. Rimowa focuses on essential functionality and impeccable build quality. While they may not always include integrated charging, their focus is on smooth-rolling wheels, secure latches, and a streamlined aesthetic that emphasizes ease of use and security for your belongings.
Aesthetics and Brand Image
Away offers a contemporary, minimalist aesthetic with a range of attractive colors and finishes. The brand image is one of modern, smart travel for the everyday adventurer. Rimowa embodies classic elegance and sophisticated luxury. Its iconic fluted aluminum design is instantly recognizable and associated with high-end travel, appealing to those who appreciate heritage, craftsmanship, and a distinguished travel experience. (See Also: 40 Vs 32 Tv )
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Away Luggage If…
- You’re looking for a stylish and functional suitcase with a modern aesthetic.
- You appreciate thoughtful interior organization features like compression systems.
- You value the option of a removable battery pack for charging devices on the go.
- You want a durable and reliable suitcase that offers good value for its price point.
Buy Rimowa If…
- You prioritize unparalleled durability and a product that can last a lifetime.
- You are drawn to the iconic and timeless design of aluminum luggage.
- You are willing to invest in a luxury travel brand with a rich heritage.
- You travel frequently and need luggage that can withstand extreme wear and tear.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which brand is better for long-term investment?
For long-term investment and enduring style, Rimowa is generally considered the superior choice. Its aluminum construction is incredibly durable, and its classic design never goes out of fashion. While Away luggage is built to last, Rimowa’s materials and craftsmanship often result in pieces that can be used and cherished for decades, potentially even becoming heirlooms.
Are Away’s polycarbonate shells prone to cracking?
Away’s polycarbonate shells are designed to be durable and resilient, but like all polycarbonate luggage, they can be susceptible to cracking under extreme force or impact, especially in very cold temperatures. However, they are engineered to withstand typical travel stresses and come with a lifetime warranty that covers damage during air travel, offering peace of mind.
Does Rimowa offer built-in charging ports?
Historically, Rimowa has not focused on integrated charging ports as a standard feature, prioritizing a sleeker design and the durability of its shells. However, some of their newer polycarbonate models may offer this feature, or it might be available as an optional add-on. It’s always best to check the specific product details for the most up-to-date information on charging capabilities. (See Also: Lansky Vs Work Sharp )
Which brand is lighter?
Generally, Away luggage, being made primarily of polycarbonate, tends to be lighter than Rimowa’s aluminum models. Polycarbonate is a lighter material overall, making it easier to maneuver and manage, especially when packed full. Rimowa’s aluminum, while incredibly strong, adds a noticeable amount of weight to the overall product.
Can I check an aluminum Rimowa suitcase?
Yes, aluminum Rimowa suitcases are designed to be checked luggage. While they are incredibly durable, the aluminum can develop scuffs and dents from the baggage handling process, which many owners view as part of the luggage’s character and journey. Rimowa’s construction ensures it can withstand the rigors of checked baggage transport.
Final Verdict
When comparing Away and Rimowa, the choice hinges on your priorities and budget. Away offers a fantastic balance of modern features, stylish design, and durability at a more accessible price point, making it an excellent choice for frequent travelers. Rimowa represents the pinnacle of luxury luggage, with unparalleled craftsmanship, iconic design, and exceptional longevity, justifying its premium cost for those seeking the ultimate in travel gear. For the best overall value and modern functionality, Away takes the lead.
Winner: Away Luggage