Away
Quality and hip branding at a reasonable price
Away is the Warby Parker of luggage, not just because a founder worked there but because their direct to consumer model results in a thoughtful and quality product without the typical retail markup. They're all built with Makrolon polycarbonate (aka the best) and come with a TSA lock, compression system, and removable laundry bag. The carry on integrates a battery for charging any USB device and can nest within bigger Away luggage like Russian stacking dolls. Their beautiful Instagram account also does a great job selling the travel lifestyle.
- 100 day trial with limited lifetime warranty
- 21.7" carry on: 7 lbs, 38L (unboxing video)
- 25" checked: 8.5 lbs, 62L
- 28" checked: 9.9 lbs, 86L
Bluesmart One
The ultimate smart carry on for connected travelers
The Bluesmart One is luggage reimagined for today's connected age with smartphone enabled features like a worldwide location tracker, digital scale, digital TSA lock, integrated battery for charging, and easy access compartment for a laptop/tablet. Its hubless wheels are quieter than others while also adding to its slightly geeky looks. An interesting approach that'll appeal to many, but not all.
If you can wait, Bluesmart is launching their new Series 2 luggage series launching in December.
- 100 day trial with 2 year warranty
- 22" carry on: 9.4 lbs, 34L
- Feeling fancy or prefer a more subdued look? See the special Black Edition
- Bluesmart website
- Original Indiegogo campaign
- Video review by The Telegraph
Raden
The Apple of luggage
Raden uses an Apple-esque approach to luggage that combines a sleek design with the latest technology and the best materials. It boasts similar smart features as the Bluesmart with a companion smartphone app, but from its minimalist and polished exterior you wouldn't think this luggage was so teched out. The polycarbonate hardshell comes in a beautiful array of colors, but we'd only recommend the lighter colors if you're proud of visible scuffs similar to how Rimowa owners love the stickered patina of the Topas.
Internally it is a bit sparse: few pockets and no compression but that isn't too hard to rectify with the right accessories.
- 5 year case warranty and 1 year electronics warranty
- 22" carry on: 8.4 lbs
- 28" checked: 13 lbs
- Raden website
- Unboxing video
Incase NoviConnected
Sleek smart luggage with USB-C charging
While technically not an upstart, Incase has always made high quality, tech focused bags and their take on smart luggage is definitely modern. The NoviConnected hits all the right notes: high quality materials like Makrolon polycarbonate, sleek looks with removable hubless wheels, and app connected battery that can charge USB-C devices. Most modern luggage can't charge USB-C yet.
If you want to add tracking, Incase does offer a separate smart luggage tracker.
- Limited lifetime case warranty and 2 year battery warranty
- 22", 41L
