For the exact models compared here, Away The Carry-On is the better fit if you want a lighter case and more stated capacity; RIMOWA Original Cabin is the pick if you specifically want an aluminum suitcase and its design. Manufacturer specifications favor Away on weight and capacity, but they do not establish which case is more durable or better value over time.
Which models are being compared?
“Rimowa” and “Away” each sell multiple suitcase lines. This comparison is between the RIMOWA Original Cabin, made of aluminum, and Away The Carry-On, the polycarbonate hard-shell model. It does not compare RIMOWA’s Essential line or Away Bigger Carry-On.
How do their specifications compare?
The figures below are manufacturer-published specifications, not independent measurements. Both brands say their external dimensions include wheels and handles.
| Specification | RIMOWA Original Cabin | Away The Carry-On |
|---|---|---|
| Shell material | Anodized aluminum | Polycarbonate |
| External dimensions | 55 × 40 × 23 cm | 55.1 × 36.7 × 22.9 cm |
| Listed weight | 4.3 kg | 3.4 kg |
| Listed capacity | 35 L | 41 L |
| Features highlighted by the manufacturer | Stage-free telescopic handle, Multiwheel system, TSA-approved locks, Flex Divider | TSA-approved combination lock, double-buckle compression pad, mesh and hanging pockets, underside grab handle, laundry bag |
| Price in the retrieved official evidence | $1,550 on RIMOWA’s US page | Not stated on the retrieved UK product page |
| Warranty or care claim | Lifetime guarantee stated on the product page | LifetimeCare: complimentary repairs for specified functional damage during the first five years, with repair support afterward subject to terms |
What matters most when choosing?
Weight and packing capacity
Away’s listed suitcase is 0.9 kg lighter and has 6 L more stated capacity. Those manufacturer figures make it the stronger choice between these two if you are trying to minimize empty-case weight or maximize listed space. The numbers are not independent measurements, and stated capacity alone does not show how easily a particular set of belongings will fit.
#1 Best Overall
- Effortless Mobility with Dual-Wheel Design: Travel with ease using Sweetcrispy carry-on luggage, featuring a dual-wheel system for smooth and seamless movement. Glide through airports, train stations, and busy streets with minimal effort, ensuring a stress-free travel experience from start to finish
- Spacious & Organized Storage: Designed with travel convenience in mind, this suitcase offers ample storage with dedicated wet and dry mesh compartments, X securing straps, and expandable capacity. The premium zipper closure ensures your belongings stay secure, while the thoughtful layout keeps your items organized and accessible
- Lightweight Yet Durable Construction: Made with a sturdy ABS exterior, this luggage is lightweight for easy handling while offering exceptional durability to withstand the demands of travel. Enjoy peace of mind knowing your belongings are well-protected on your journey
- Built-in TSA Lock for Enhanced Security: Travel confidently with the integrated TSA-approved lock, providing an added layer of security for both domestic and international trips. Keep your valuables safe and avoid the hassle of unauthorized access while traveling
- Adjustable & Resilient Telescopic Handle: Customize your travel experience with the durable, flexible telescopic handle, which adjusts smoothly to your preferred height. Whether you’re navigating through crowded spaces or taking a quick turn, the handle ensures comfort and stability
Shell material and design
The Original Cabin is aluminum; The Carry-On is polycarbonate. That is a meaningful construction difference, but the available product specifications do not prove that either suitcase lasts longer in everyday travel. Choose the material and appearance you prefer rather than treating the material alone as evidence of superior durability.
Organization and handling
RIMOWA emphasizes its adjustable divider, Multiwheel system, and stage-free handle. Away emphasizes its compression pad, pockets, laundry bag, and grab handle. These are different approaches to packing and handling; there is no controlled comparative test here to establish which works better.
Rank #2
- The Perfect Size: The textured, scratch-resistant exterior of this hardshell carry-on luggage is 15 x 10 x 23 inches" with wheels and meets the cabin size restrictions of most airlines.
- Stay Organized: This small hard-sided carry-on suitcase provides ample packing room with a spacious 20.5" x 14.5" x 10.0" interior. The elastic straps, divider, and pouch ensure everything stays neatly in place
Airline fit
RIMOWA provides an airline hand-luggage table on its product page. Away says The Carry-On meets requirements for most major airlines, which does not mean every airline accepts it on every route or fare. Check the current cabin-size and weight rules for your airline, route, and ticket before flying, and compare those rules with the cases’ outer dimensions.
Warranty and repairs
RIMOWA’s product page states a lifetime guarantee. Away describes LifetimeCare: complimentary repairs during the first five years for specified functional damage, followed by repair support subject to its terms. These are not equivalent promises; review each brand’s current coverage, exclusions, and process before purchase.
Recommended Free Tools
Rank #3
- Flexible Size & Set Options for Every Trip: Choose the 22” expandable carry-on alone, the 3-piece travel set (22” carry-on + 15” boarding tote + 10” travel kit), or the complete 5-piece set including 30”, 26”, and 22” suitcases with matching travel accessories
- Durable ABS Hardside with Lightweight Construction: Rigid ABS shells protect your belongings while remaining easy to lift, maneuver, and check, ideal for frequent travel and longer trips
- Expandable Design for Extra Packing Capacity: All suitcases expand to provide additional space when needed, giving you flexibility for souvenirs, returns, or extended travel
- Smooth 360° Spinner Wheels & Telescoping Handle: Four multi-directional spinner wheels and a push-button telescopic handle deliver effortless rolling and stable control through airports and terminals
- Coordinated Travel Accessories with Smart Features: Included in the 3 Piece Set and 5 Piece Set options are a 15” boarding tote with add-a-bag sleeve for secure stacking and a compact 10” travel kit to keep essentials organized and accessible
Price
RIMOWA’s US page lists the Original Cabin at $1,550. The retrieved Away page is for the UK and does not establish a comparable current US price, so these figures cannot support a same-market price comparison. Check both live prices in your region before deciding.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Which one should you choose?
- Choose Away The Carry-On if lower listed empty weight, greater stated capacity, or its included organization features matter most.
- Choose RIMOWA Original Cabin if you specifically want the aluminum Original model and value its listed handling features and design enough to accept its greater listed weight and the verified US price.
- Before either purchase, confirm cabin fit with your airline and compare the brands’ current local prices and repair terms. Neither product specification establishes superior lifetime value or durability.
RIMOWA describes the Original Cabin as “Ideal for 3 to 4 days of travel.” That is the brand’s product description, not an independently verified packing test.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- Smooth & Easy Mobility: The Sweetcrispy luggage set offers superior smooth & easy mobility with its dual-wheel design, allowing foreffortless movement and ensuring a truly hassle-free travel experience from start to finish
- Spacious Storage Space: With spacious and practical storage, wet and dry mesh areas, X securing straps and expandable storage capacity, this suitcases with wheels offers optimal organization and versatility, designed to meet all your travel needs. The premium zipper closure system gives you peace of mind and convenience when traveling
- Lightweight & Durable: Sweetcrispy checked luggage is crafted with an ABS exterior material that keeps it light for easy handling while offering incredible sturdiness to withstand the rigors of travel
- Enhanced Security with TSA Lock: Sweetcrispy Luggage Set – the integrated lock helps protect your belongings from unauthorized access, providing you with complete peace of mind whether you are traveling on domestic flights or international trips
- Flexible and Resilient Telescopic Handle: The retractable handle of this travel luggage is not only durable, but also offers flexibility, allowing you to easily adjust it according to your preferred height while maintaining its excellent performance
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
