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Away is consistently ranked as one of the most popular luggage brands, and that status is well-deserved — the travel gear company has received high praise from Rolling Stone staffers for its durability and expandable design.
The DTC luggage brand took off in 2016 with the launch of its original carry-on; compression pockets, removable battery packs, a solid polycarbonate hard shell, and fun colorways turned it into a social media darling. The brand has continued to gain momentum with the release of products like trunk suitcases, weekender duffels, and toiletry kits. Years later, it’s officially entering a new (or, well, sort of old) era: On the heels of summer travel, Away has officially launched a soft-sided luggage collection.
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According to the brand, soft-shell products account for roughly 50 percent of luggage sales in the United States despite limited innovation in the market. (Away adjusts features based on traveler feedback, and there was a limited-edition soft-shell collection back in 2019; those learnings informed this permanent collection.)Here’s everything to know about the new Away Softside line, along with our top suitcase picks.
What Is Away’s Softside Collection?
Away’s soft-sided luggage, appropriately called the Softside line, shares the brand’s lightweight design, 360-degree wheels, underside grab handle, and signature compression system, the latter of which gives over-packers explicit permission to bring their entire wardrobe along on a trip. (We’re not judging.)
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The Softside difference, however, is a top flap opening with one spacious single compartment in lieu of two smaller ones, which is a main feature in the classic hard shell portfolio. Plus, the Softside material is a water- and abrasion-resistant nylon fabric with a whisper of flexibility (in other words: you can pack more stuff) that also champions longevity, though each luggage has a lifetime warranty in the event that something were to happen to it.
Two exterior front pockets easily fit a laptop or other need-to-access necessities, while a matching TSA-approved padlock keeps your belongings in check. And you know how soft shell luggage tends to flop over when it’s full? Well, not this one — there’s a proprietary stabilizer to ensure it remains upright.The design is sleek, too, a departure from the traditional, dusty models stored in your family’s attic.
Away has launched its soft-sided collection in jet black, cloud gray, coast blue, and clay pink in all four original sizes: The Carry-On, The Bigger Carry-On, The Medium, and The Large. Prices start at $225 and will be available for purchase online or at one of the brand’s 17 retail locations. Plus, fast shipping makes this perfect timing for procrastinators who don’t book, pack, or prepare until the very last-minute. We’re right there with you.
Shop the Away Softside Collection
Away The Softside Carry-On
Shown in cloud gray
$225
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Specs:
• Measurements: 21.7″ x 13.7″ x 9″ (exterior) and 20” x 13.5” (interior)
• Weight: 8.15 lbs
• Capacity: 39.8 L (46.7 L when expanded)
Away The Softside Bigger Carry-On
Shown in coast blue
$245
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Specs:
• Measurements: 22.7″ x 15.4″ x 9.6″ (exterior) and 20.9″ x 15″ x 7.9″ (interior)
• Weight: 7.9 lbs
• Capacity: 47.9 L
Away The Softside Medium
Shown in clay pink
$295
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Specs:
• Measurements: 26″ x 18.9″ x 10.6″ (exterior)
• Weight: 12.6 lbs
• Capacity: 76 L
Away The Softside Large
Shown in black
$325
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Specs:
• Measurements: 29″ x 20.5″ x 12.5″ (exterior) and 26.9″ x 19.7″ x 10.6″ (interior)
• Weight: 12.1 lbs
• Capacity: 99.2 L
