Planning your next adventure? Choosing the right luggage can make or break your trip. The decision often boils down to size, and when it comes to Away suitcases, the ‘away medium vs large’ debate is a crucial one.
Both the Away Medium and Large suitcases offer sleek designs and durable construction, but they cater to different travel styles. Figuring out which size aligns with your needs will ensure you’re well-equipped for any journey, whether it’s a weekend getaway or a long-haul adventure.
This comparison dives deep into the features, benefits, and drawbacks of each size to help you make an informed decision. We’ll explore dimensions, capacity, and suitability for various trip types, ensuring you select the perfect Away suitcase for your travel needs.
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | away medium | large |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | Medium | Large |
| Capacity | Medium | Large |
| Dimensions | Smaller | Larger |
| Material | Durable | Durable |
| Wheels | Spinner | Spinner |
| Handle | Telescoping | Telescoping |
| TSA Approved | Yes | Yes |
| Expandable | Yes | Yes |
| Internal Pockets | Multiple | Multiple |
| External Features | Stylish | Stylish |
| Warranty | Limited Lifetime | Limited Lifetime |
| Smart Features | None | None |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Size & Capacity
- Away Medium: Designed for shorter trips and carry-on compatibility. Typically offers around 40-60 liters of packing space, making it easy to maneuver. Pros: Easy to handle, fits in overhead bins. Cons: Limited packing capacity for longer trips.
- Large: Intended for longer trips and checked baggage. Offers a significantly larger capacity, often 90-100+ liters, allowing for more extensive packing. Pros: Ample space for longer journeys. Cons: Requires checking, can be cumbersome to maneuver.
- Winner: Large
Weight
- Away Medium: Generally lighter than large suitcases, making them easier to lift and carry, especially when fully packed. This contributes to better maneuverability. Pros: Easier to lift and handle. Cons: Still needs to be relatively light to be carry-on compatible.
- Large: Heavier due to the increased size and materials needed for durability. This can make them more difficult to lift and maneuver, particularly when full. Pros: Can hold more. Cons: Heavier.
- Winner: away medium
Maneuverability
- Away Medium: Easier to navigate through crowded spaces like airports and train stations due to its smaller size and lighter weight. Fits in overhead bins. Pros: Highly maneuverable in tight spaces. Cons: Less stable when packed heavily.
- Large: Can be more challenging to maneuver, especially when fully loaded. Requires more effort to navigate through crowds and over uneven surfaces. Pros: Can haul more. Cons: Less maneuverable.
- Winner: away medium
Durability
- Away Medium: Constructed with durable materials but may be less robust than larger counterparts designed for checked baggage. Likely to have a lighter frame. Pros: Durable enough for carry-on. Cons: May not withstand rough handling as well.
- Large: Built to withstand the rigors of baggage handling, often featuring reinforced corners and heavier-duty materials. Designed for checked baggage. Pros: Built to last. Cons: Can be heavier.
- Winner: Large
Wheels & Handle
- Away Medium: Typically features smooth-rolling wheels and a telescoping handle for easy transport. Designed to be manageable in various environments. Pros: Designed for easy movement. Cons: Can be less robust than those on larger bags.
- Large: Equipped with robust wheels and a sturdy handle designed to handle heavier loads and rougher terrains. Typically has a more stable base. Pros: Designed for heavy loads. Cons: Can be bulkier.
- Winner: Tie
Expandability
- Away Medium: May have limited or no expandability options due to size constraints for carry-on compatibility. Designed to maximize space within set dimensions. Pros: Compact. Cons: Limited space.
- Large: Often includes expandable features, allowing for increased packing capacity when needed. This is useful for bringing back souvenirs or accommodating extra items. Pros: More capacity. Cons: Expandability adds weight.
- Winner: Large
Cost
- Away Medium: Generally less expensive than their larger counterparts due to the use of fewer materials and simpler construction. Designed for a specific use case. Pros: Can be less expensive. Cons: Less capacity.
- Large: Typically more expensive, reflecting the larger size, more robust construction, and potentially more features. Designed for longer trips. Pros: More capacity. Cons: Can be more expensive.
- Winner: away medium
Travel Style Suitability
- Away Medium: Ideal for shorter trips, weekend getaways, and business travel where carry-on convenience is prioritized. Fits in overhead bins. Pros: Great for shorter trips. Cons: Not ideal for long trips.
- Large: Best suited for longer trips, family vacations, and situations where a greater amount of luggage is required. Needs to be checked. Pros: Great for long trips. Cons: Requires checking.
- Winner: Large
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Capacity | large |
| Maneuverability | away medium |
| Compactness | away medium |
| Storage | large |
| Ease of Use | Tie |
What They Have in Common:
- Durability: Both the Away Medium and Large suitcases are constructed from durable materials, ensuring they can withstand the rigors of travel.
- Wheels: Both models feature smooth-rolling spinner wheels, making them easy to maneuver through airports and other travel environments.
- Telescoping Handle: Both suitcases include a telescoping handle for comfortable handling and easy navigation.
- Tsa Approved: Both suitcases meet TSA requirements, allowing for hassle-free travel.
- Expandability: Both suitcases have expandable features, providing extra storage space when needed.
Away Medium Vs Large Buying Guide
Consider Your Travel Style
When choosing between the Away Medium and Large suitcases, your travel style is paramount. Consider how often you travel, and for how long. Frequent weekend getaways might favor the Medium, offering ease of maneuverability and compliance with most airline carry-on size restrictions. Longer trips, particularly those exceeding a week, or travel with a family will likely benefit from the larger capacity of the Large. Think about the types of activities you typically engage in during your travels to further refine your choice.
Capacity and Packing Needs
The core difference lies in capacity. The Away Medium is well-suited for trips of up to a week, offering ample space for essentials and a few extras. It’s often the ideal size for business trips or vacations where you want to pack light. The Large, however, truly shines for longer journeys or when you need to accommodate bulky items, multiple pairs of shoes, or gear. It’s the go-to choice for families or individuals who prefer to pack everything, just in case. (See Also: Power Recliner Vs Manual Recliner )
Airline Regulations and Fees
Airline baggage regulations play a significant role. The Medium generally fits within most airline’s checked baggage size limits. The Large, while often acceptable, pushes the boundaries and might incur extra fees, especially on budget airlines. Always check the specific size and weight restrictions of your airline before purchasing. Factor in the potential cost of checked baggage when evaluating the overall value proposition of each size.
Maneuverability and Handling
Maneuverability is a key advantage of the Medium. Its smaller size makes it easier to navigate crowded airports, train stations, and narrow hotel corridors. The Large, while still equipped with smooth-rolling wheels, can be more cumbersome, especially when fully packed. Consider your physical strength and how much weight you’re comfortable handling. The lighter weight of the Medium when empty can also be a significant advantage.
Durability and Construction
Both Away suitcases are known for their durability, built with a polycarbonate hard shell. The construction is very similar between the Medium and Large, with robust wheels, telescoping handles, and interior compression systems. However, the Large, due to its increased size, will likely experience more stress during handling and transportation. Ensure both sizes are treated with care, and consider purchasing a protective cover for added peace of mind.
Price Comparison and Value
The price difference between the Medium and Large reflects the difference in capacity and materials. While the Large is more expensive, consider the value it offers based on your travel needs. If you frequently travel for extended periods or with more items, the added capacity of the Large might justify the higher cost. Evaluate the frequency of your travel and the typical length of your trips to determine which size provides the best overall value for your specific requirements. (See Also: Neuriva Vs Prevagen Vs Focus Factor )
Who Should Buy What?
Buy away medium If…
- You prefer a suitcase that is easier to store in overhead compartments.
- You primarily take shorter trips or need a suitcase for carry-on.
- You want a lighter and more maneuverable option.
- You value compactness for navigating crowded spaces.
Buy large If…
- You frequently take longer trips or need to pack a lot of items.
- You prefer a suitcase with maximum packing capacity.
- You don’t mind a larger size for added space.
- You need to pack for multiple people or extended travels.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary difference between the Away Medium and Large?
The primary difference is the capacity. The Large offers significantly more space for packing compared to the Medium. The Medium is designed for trips of up to a week, while the Large is ideal for longer trips, family travel, or when you need to pack bulky items. Consider the length and frequency of your travels when deciding between the two.
Which size is better for international travel?
Both are suitable for international travel, but the Large may potentially incur extra fees due to its size, depending on the airline. The Medium is generally within standard checked baggage size limits. Always check the specific size and weight restrictions of the airline you’re flying with before your trip to avoid any surprises or additional costs. Consider what you are packing.
Is the Away Large difficult to maneuver?
The Away Large, while equipped with smooth-rolling wheels, can be more cumbersome to maneuver than the Medium, especially when fully packed. It is best to consider how crowded your destinations are and what you are comfortable handling. The Medium is easier to navigate through crowded airports and narrow spaces.
Does the Large fit in overhead compartments?
No, the Away Large does not fit in overhead compartments. It is designed as a checked suitcase. The Medium, however, often meets carry-on size requirements for many airlines. Be sure to check the specific dimensions allowed by the airline you are traveling with, as they can vary. (See Also: Schiit Modi Vs Bifrost )
Are both suitcases durable?
Yes, both the Away Medium and Large suitcases are constructed with durable polycarbonate hard shells, designed to withstand the rigors of travel. They also have sturdy wheels and telescoping handles. However, the Large, due to its larger size, may experience more stress. Handling with care is always recommended to maximize longevity.
What are the interior features of each size?
Both the Medium and Large feature interior compression systems to help you pack efficiently and keep your belongings organized. They also include a built-in laundry bag and a hidden compartment for smaller items. The Large, due to its greater capacity, may offer slightly more space for organizing your items, but the core features are similar.
Which size is best for a family trip?
The Away Large is generally the better choice for family trips, as it provides significantly more space to accommodate clothing, toiletries, and other essentials for multiple travelers. Its larger capacity helps manage the volume of luggage required for a family. However, you may need to check the Large and pay baggage fees.
Final Verdict
The Away Medium is ideal for shorter trips and those who prioritize ease of maneuverability. The Large excels for extended travel or when carrying a significant amount of luggage. While both are well-constructed and stylish, the choice hinges on individual travel needs. For most, the Large offers greater utility for longer trips and family travel.
Winner: Away Large