In the world of travel, finding the perfect suitcase can be a daunting task. With so many options available, it’s hard to know which one will truly meet your needs. That’s where Solgaard, Away, and Monos come in. These three brands have become popular contenders in the luggage market, each offering their own unique features and styles. So, whether you’re a frequent flyer or a weekend explorer, it’s time to compare Solgaard vs. Away vs. Monos to find the ideal travel companion for your next adventure.

Design and Aesthetics

Design

When choosing a travel suitcase, design plays a crucial role in not only making a statement but also ensuring functionality. Solgaard, Away, and Monos all offer sleek and modern designs that cater to different preferences. Solgaard is known for its minimalistic yet stylish designs, with clean lines and a focus on functionality. Away, on the other hand, offers a variety of contemporary designs that are both timeless and eye-catching. Monos strikes a balance between functionality and aesthetics by offering sleek and minimalist designs with thoughtful details.

Colors and Materials

The choice of colors and materials in a suitcase can greatly contribute to its overall appeal. Solgaard offers a range of color options, including classic neutrals and vibrant hues, allowing you to express your personal style. Away also provides a variety of color choices, from sophisticated neutrals to bold statement colors. Monos focuses on timeless and versatile colors, such as blacks, grays, and navy. When it comes to materials, Solgaard is committed to sustainability and uses recycled materials in its suitcase construction. Away uses a durable and scratch-resistant polycarbonate shell, while Monos uses a durable and lightweight polycarbonate blend.

Logo and Branding

Logo and branding are not just about aesthetics, but also reflect the identity and values of a brand. Solgaard showcases its logo on the front of its suitcases, a subtle and minimalist approach that adds a touch of sophistication. Away’s logo is embossed on the center of its suitcases, reflecting a more classic and elegant branding style. Monos takes a discreet approach with its logo, placing a small logo tag on the side of its suitcases. Each brand’s logo and branding contribute to the overall design aesthetic and give customers a sense of brand identity.

Functionality and Features

Storage Capacity

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a travel suitcase is its storage capacity. Solgaard offers suitcases with different sizes to cater to various needs, providing ample space for your belongings. Away also provides a range of sizes, including carry-ons and larger check-in suitcases, ensuring you have enough room to pack what you need. Monos offers suitcases with a well-designed interior layout, maximizing storage capacity and allowing for efficient organization.

Organization

Keeping your belongings organized during travel can make your journey much smoother. Solgaard offers suitcases with built-in compression straps and mesh compartments, providing efficient organization options. Away includes a removable compression pad and a hidden laundry bag in its suitcases, helping to keep your items neat and organized. Monos incorporates a clothing compartment and a shoe bag into its suitcases, ensuring easy and efficient organization.

Accessibility

Having easy access to your belongings is essential when you’re on the go. Solgaard offers suitcases with exterior pockets and a removable laundry bag for quick and easy access to essentials. Away provides suitcases with a front compartment that allows you to access your laptop and personal items without opening the main compartment. Monos offers a quick-access front pocket on its suitcases for items you need to reach quickly, such as travel documents or electronics.

Durability

A travel suitcase needs to withstand the rigors of travel, so durability is crucial. Solgaard is known for its durable and scratch-resistant shell, ensuring your suitcase remains intact even after frequent use. Away uses a robust polycarbonate shell that is both lightweight and resistant to wear and tear. Monos employs a durable polycarbonate blend that can withstand rough handling and is built to last.

Weight

The weight of a suitcase can greatly impact your travel experience, especially when it comes to airline weight restrictions. Solgaard offers lightweight suitcases that are designed to minimize unnecessary weight without compromising durability. Away’s suitcases are also lightweight, which can be particularly advantageous when traveling by air. Monos prioritizes lightweight construction without sacrificing durability, ensuring ease of transport while adhering to weight restrictions.

Security Features

Protecting your belongings from theft or damage is paramount when traveling. Solgaard offers suitcases with hidden anti-theft compartments and a TSA-approved lock, providing peace of mind. Away incorporates a combination lock and a water-resistant zipper to keep your belongings secure. Monos uses a TSA-approved lock and sturdy zippers with security tabs for added protection. All three brands prioritize security features to safeguard your items during your travels.

Comfort and Convenience

Handle and Strap Design

The comfort of carrying and maneuvering your suitcase is essential, especially during long journeys. Solgaard offers suitcases with ergonomic handles that provide a comfortable grip, minimizing strain on your wrists and shoulders. Away’s suitcases feature an ergonomic telescoping handle with a smooth, effortless glide. Monos incorporates an adjustable handle with three different length options to accommodate different heights, ensuring a comfortable travel experience.

Wheels and Maneuverability

Effortless maneuverability is a key consideration when choosing a suitcase. Solgaard’s suitcases feature smooth-rolling, shock-absorbent wheels that provide stability and maneuverability on various surfaces. Away’s suitcases are equipped with 360° spinner wheels, allowing for easy navigation through crowded airports or busy streets. Monos utilizes Japanese Hinomoto wheels that are renowned for their durability and smooth gliding, ensuring you can move with ease.

Packing and Unpacking

The ease of packing and unpacking can greatly enhance your travel experience. Solgaard offers suitcases with a removable laundry bag that makes separating dirty clothes a breeze. Away incorporates an internal compression system and a hidden laundry bag for efficient packing and organization. Monos incorporates a double-sided packing system with removable dividers, allowing for effortless packing and unpacking.

Portability

The portability of a suitcase is crucial, particularly when navigating through airports or crowded places. Solgaard’s suitcases are designed to be portable, with built-in side and top handles for easy lifting. Away’s suitcases feature a lightweight design and an integrated trolley sleeve, allowing you to easily attach it to your other luggage. Monos offers suitcases with top and side handles, as well as an integrated trolley sleeve, ensuring effortless portability.

Price and Value

Price Range

The price range of a travel suitcase can vary depending on brand and features. Solgaard offers suitcases at a mid-range price point, making it accessible to a wider range of travelers. Away’s suitcases are priced in the mid to high range, reflecting their quality and design. Monos provides suitcases at a mid-range price point, offering a balance between affordability and premium features.

Value for Money

When considering the value for money, it’s important to assess the features and quality offered by each brand. Solgaard offers value for money by combining functional features, stylish design, and durable construction. Away provides value for money by offering high-quality materials, thoughtful design elements, and a lifetime warranty. Monos offers value for money through its attention to detail, durability, and reliability.

Warranty and Customer Support

Having a reliable warranty and customer support is essential to ensure peace of mind and satisfaction with your purchase. Solgaard offers a lifetime warranty, demonstrating their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. Away provides a lifetime warranty on its suitcases, exemplifying their trust in their products. Monos offers a limited warranty against manufacturing defects, providing customers with reassurance and support.

Product Range and Options

Variety of Sizes

Having a variety of suitcase sizes to choose from allows you to select the one that best suits your travel needs. Solgaard offers a range of sizes, including carry-ons and check-in suitcases, catering to different travel requirements. Away also provides a variety of sizes, allowing you to choose the one that fits your specific needs. Monos offers a selection of sizes to accommodate different travel styles, ensuring there is an option for everyone.

Additional Accessories

Additional accessories can enhance the functionality and versatility of your suitcase. Solgaard offers accessories such as packing cubes, laptop sleeves, and toiletry bags, allowing for efficient organization and convenience. Away provides accessories like a garment bag, a shoe cube, and a travel blanket, enhancing your travel experience. Monos offers accessories such as a toiletry bag, a laptop case, and a garment cover, providing added convenience and organization.

Special Editions or Collaborations

Special editions or collaborations can offer unique and limited-edition designs that cater to those looking for something exclusive. Solgaard occasionally collaborates with artists to create limited-edition suitcases with distinctive designs, adding a touch of artistic flair. Away has collaborated with various designers and celebrities, resulting in special edition suitcases that combine fashion and function. Monos has introduced limited-edition suitcases with unique colorways, providing customers with options that reflect their individual style.

Customer Feedback and Reviews

Positive Feedback

Positive customer feedback is a strong indicator of the quality and satisfaction experienced by users. Solgaard has received positive reviews for its durability, innovative design, and attention to detail. Customers appreciate the thoughtful features and functionality of Solgaard suitcases. Away has garnered positive feedback for its sleek design, durability, and overall value for money. Customers have praised the quality and functionality of Away suitcases. Monos has received positive reviews for its functional design, lightweight construction, and ease of use. Customers value the attention to detail and practicality of Monos suitcases.

Negative Feedback

It’s important to consider any negative feedback to gain a comprehensive understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of each brand. Solgaard has received some negative feedback regarding the size options and pricing of their suitcases. Customers have expressed a desire for more variety in sizes and more competitive pricing. Away has faced criticism regarding customer service and delays in shipping. Some customers have also expressed concerns about the durability of certain components. Monos has received occasional negative feedback regarding the wheels and zippers, with some customers experiencing issues with their functionality.

Common Issues or Complaints

Despite overall positive feedback, there are some common issues or complaints that customers have raised regarding Solgaard, Away, and Monos suitcases. Customers have expressed concerns about the wheels of Solgaard suitcases, with some experiencing difficulties maneuvering the suitcase smoothly. For Away, delays in shipping and difficulties in reaching customer service have been common complaints. Some Monos customers have reported issues with zipper durability and occasional difficulties with the functionality of the wheels.

Shipping and Delivery

Shipping Policies

The shipping policies of each brand can impact the overall customer experience. Solgaard offers free shipping for orders within the United States, with international shipping available at an additional cost. Away provides free shipping for customers in the United States, with international shipping available for an additional fee. Monos offers free shipping for orders within North America, with international shipping available at an extra cost.

Delivery Timescales

The delivery timescales can vary depending on location and other factors. Solgaard typically delivers within 4-7 business days for orders within the United States and 6-14 business days for international orders. Away usually delivers within 5-7 business days for domestic orders and 6-12 business days for international orders. Monos generally delivers within 3-7 business days for orders within North America and 5-14 business days for international orders.

International Shipping Options

Ensuring international shipping options are available is important for customers traveling from various locations. Solgaard offers international shipping to over 200 countries and territories, providing global availability for its suitcases. Away offers international shipping to select countries worldwide, expanding its reach to a wider customer base. Monos also provides international shipping to multiple countries, catering to global travelers.

Brand Reputation

Company History and Background

Understanding the company history and background can provide insights into the brand’s values and expertise. Solgaard was founded in 2016 by Adrian Solgaard with a mission to create sustainably designed products for travelers. Away was founded in 2015 by Stephanie Korey and Jennifer Rubio, aiming to revolutionize the luggage industry with high-quality and affordable suitcases. Monos was established in 2017 with the goal of creating well-crafted suitcases that combine functionality and style, founded by Steve Ou and Daniel Duong.

Social and Environmental Responsibility

The commitment to social and environmental responsibility is increasingly important for conscious consumers. Solgaard is committed to sustainability, using materials made from recycled ocean plastic in its suitcase construction and implementing initiatives to clean up plastic from the ocean. Away focuses on sustainable practices, including carbon offsets for shipping and eco-friendly packaging materials. Monos places an emphasis on sustainable production and packaging, ensuring minimal environmental impact throughout the manufacturing process.

Observer Ratings and Awards

Ratings and awards from reputable sources can provide further validation of a brand’s quality and reputation. Solgaard has been recognized by notable publications, such as Forbes and Fast Company, for its innovative design and sustainable initiatives. Away has received accolades from Vogue, Fast Company, and Travel + Leisure, recognizing its design and functionality. Monos has received recognition from Travel + Leisure, Forbes, and GQ for its sleek design and craftsmanship.

Comparison Chart

Design

• Solgaard: Minimalistic design with clean lines and focus on functionality.
• Away: Contemporary designs that are both timeless and eye-catching.
• Monos: Sleek and minimalist designs with thoughtful details.

Functionality

• Storage Capacity
  • Solgaard: Offers suitcases with different sizes to cater to various needs.
  • Away: Provides a range of sizes, including carry-ons and larger check-in suitcases.
  • Monos: Incorporates a well-designed interior layout for efficient organization.
• Organization
  • Solgaard: Built-in compression straps and mesh compartments.
  • Away: Removable compression pad and hidden laundry bag.
  • Monos: Clothing compartment and shoe bag.
• Accessibility
  • Solgaard: Exterior pockets and removable laundry bag.
  • Away: Front compartment for quick access to personal items.
  • Monos: Quick-access front pocket for essentials.
• Durability
  • Solgaard: Durable and scratch-resistant shell.
  • Away: Robust polycarbonate shell resistant to wear and tear.
  • Monos: Durable polycarbonate blend built to last.
• Weight
  • Solgaard: Lightweight construction without compromising durability.
  • Away: Lightweight design for ease of transport.
  • Monos: Lightweight construction without sacrificing durability.
• Security Features
  • Solgaard: Hidden anti-theft compartments and TSA-approved lock.
  • Away: Combination lock and water-resistant zipper.
  • Monos: TSA-approved lock and sturdy zippers with security tabs.

Comfort

• Handle and Strap Design
  • Solgaard: Ergonomic handles for a comfortable grip.
  • Away: Ergonomic telescoping handle with a smooth glide.
  • Monos: Adjustable handle with different length options.
• Wheels and Maneuverability
  • Solgaard: Smooth-rolling, shock-absorbent wheels.
  • Away: 360° spinner wheels for easy navigation.
  • Monos: Japanese Hinomoto wheels for durability and smooth gliding.
• Packing and Unpacking
  • Solgaard: Removable laundry bag for easy separation.
  • Away: Internal compression system and hidden laundry bag.
  • Monos: Double-sided packing system with removable dividers.
• Portability
  • Solgaard: Built-in side and top handles for easy lifting.
  • Away: Lightweight design and integrated trolley sleeve.
  • Monos: Top and side handles, and integrated trolley sleeve.

Price

• Solgaard: Mid-range price point.
• Away: Mid to high range.
• Monos: Mid-range price point.

Product Range

• Variety of Sizes
  • Solgaard: Offers a range of sizes, including carry-ons and check-in suitcases.
  • Away: Provides a variety of sizes to choose from.
  • Monos: Offers a selection of sizes to accommodate different travel styles.
• Additional Accessories
  • Solgaard: Packing cubes, laptop sleeves, and toiletry bags.
  • Away: Garment bag, shoe cube, and travel blanket.
  • Monos: Toiletry bag, laptop case, and garment cover.
• Special Editions or Collaborations
  • Solgaard: Occasionally collaborates with artists for limited-edition designs.
  • Away: Collaborations with designers and celebrities for special edition suitcases.
  • Monos: Limited-edition suitcases with unique colorways.

Customer Feedback

• Positive Feedback
  • Solgaard: Praised for durability, innovative design, and attention to detail.
  • Away: Appreciated for sleek design, durability, and overall value for money.
  • Monos: Valued for functional design, lightweight construction, and ease of use.
• Negative Feedback
  • Solgaard: Concerns about size options and pricing.
  • Away: Criticism regarding customer service and shipping delays.
  • Monos: Issues with zipper durability and occasional wheel functionality.

Shipping & Delivery

• Shipping Policies
  • Solgaard: Free shipping within the United States, additional cost for international shipping.
  • Away: Free shipping within the United States, additional fee for international shipping.
  • Monos: Free shipping within North America, extra cost for international shipping.
• Delivery Timescales
  • Solgaard: Typically delivers within 4-7 business days for domestic, and 6-14 business days for international orders.
  • Away: Usually delivers within 5-7 business days for domestic, and 6-12 business days for international orders.
  • Monos: Generally delivers within 3-7 business days for domestic, and 5-14 business days for international orders.
• International Shipping Options
  • Solgaard: Offers international shipping to over 200 countries and territories.
  • Away: Provides international shipping to select countries worldwide.
  • Monos: Offers international shipping to multiple countries.

Brand Reputation

• Company History and Background
  • Solgaard: Founded in 2016 with a focus on sustainability.
  • Away: Established in 2015, revolutionizing the luggage industry with high-quality and affordable suitcases.
  • Monos: Founded in 2017, combining functionality and style in well-crafted suitcases.
• Social and Environmental Responsibility
  • Solgaard: Uses recycled ocean plastic in suitcase construction and implements initiatives to clean up plastic.
  • Away: Focuses on sustainable practices, including carbon offsets for shipping and eco-friendly packaging materials.
  • Monos: Prioritizes sustainable production and packaging to minimize environmental impact.
• Observer Ratings and Awards
  • Solgaard: Recognized by Forbes and Fast Company for innovative design and sustainable initiatives.
  • Away: Accolades from Vogue, Fast Company, and Travel + Leisure for design and functionality.
  • Monos: Recognition from Travel + Leisure, Forbes, and GQ for sleek design and craftsmanship.

Conclusion

Summary of Findings

After thorough analysis of Solgaard, Away, and Monos suitcases across various categories, it is evident that all three brands offer high-quality products with unique features. Solgaard stands out for its minimalistic design, sustainability efforts, and innovative features. Away excels in combining contemporary design with functionality and offers a wide range of sizes and additional accessories. Monos impresses with its sleek and minimalist design, lightweight construction, and attention to detail.

Recommendations

Your choice between Solgaard, Away, and Monos ultimately depends on your specific preferences and needs. If sustainability is a top priority, Solgaard’s use of recycled materials and commitment to cleaning up the ocean may resonate with you. If you value contemporary design and a wide range of sizes, Away offers a variety of options to suit different travel preferences. If sleek design, lightweight construction, and attention to detail are your priorities, Monos may be the ideal choice for you.

Consider your requirements for storage capacity, organization, accessibility, durability, and other features when making your decision. Additionally, take into account the price range, customer reviews, shipping policies, and brand reputation to ensure the best overall value for your investment.

No matter which brand you choose, all three offer reliable and stylish travel suitcases that will accompany you on your journeys for years to come. Happy travels!