Away vs Thule Luggage: Which is Better for Adventure?

When it comes to choosing luggage for your adventures, two popular brands stand out: Away and Thule. Each offers unique features and designs that cater to different types of travelers. This article will compare the two to help you decide which is the better option for your next trip.

Key Takeaways

• Both Away and Thule luggage are made with strong materials that can handle rough travel.
• Thule offers more options for organizing your items, while Away focuses on sleek design.
• Thule tends to be heavier, but it provides better durability for tough conditions.
• Away luggage is often lighter and easier to maneuver, making it great for quick trips.
• Prices vary, with Thule generally being more expensive, but both brands offer good value for quality.

Design and Build Quality of Away and Thule Luggage

When it comes to choosing luggage for your adventures, the design and build quality are crucial factors. Both Away and Thule offer unique features that cater to different travel needs.

Material Durability

• Away Luggage: Made from a durable polycarbonate shell, Away luggage is designed to withstand the rigors of travel. It’s lightweight yet strong, making it a popular choice for frequent flyers.
• Thule Luggage: Known for its exceptional durability, Thule luggage is crafted from high-quality, weather-resistant materials. This ensures that your belongings stay safe, even in tough conditions.

Aesthetic Appeal

• Away: Offers a sleek, modern look with a variety of colors, appealing to those who value style.
• Thule: While also stylish, Thule focuses on a more rugged design, perfect for adventure seekers.

Weight and Portability

Both brands prioritize portability, but Away tends to be lighter, making it easier to carry around.

In summary, both Away and Thule luggage have their strengths in design and build quality. Your choice will depend on your travel style and preferences. Whether you prioritize durability or aesthetic appeal, both brands offer reliable options for your adventures.

Storage and Organization Features

Internal Compartments

Both Away and Thule luggage offer smart internal compartments that help keep your belongings organized. Away luggage typically features:

• Multiple zippered pockets for easy access
• A separate compartment for shoes or dirty clothes
• Compression straps to secure items

Thule luggage, on the other hand, includes:

• Large, sturdy compartments for easy packing
• Travel organizers to manage smaller items
• Additional pockets for quick access to essentials

Expandable Sections

When it comes to packing flexibility, both brands have options.

• Away luggage has a unique expansion feature that allows you to increase packing space by up to 1.5 inches.
• Thule luggage offers a CX expansion system that can extend the bag’s depth, making it easier to fit more items.

Accessibility of Items

Accessibility is key for travelers. Here’s how each brand stacks up:

• Away luggage:
  • Easy-to-reach pockets for travel documents
  • Smooth zippers for quick access
• Thule luggage:
  • Anti-theft back zippered pocket for valuables
  • Bucket-style main compartment for easy access

In summary, both Away and Thule luggage provide excellent storage and organization features, making them suitable for any adventure. Choosing the right one depends on your specific travel needs.

Performance in Different Travel Conditions

Weather Resistance

Both Away and Thule luggage are designed to withstand various weather conditions. Thule luggage often features water-resistant materials, making it suitable for rainy adventures. Away luggage, while durable, may not offer the same level of water protection.

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Handling Rough Terrain

When it comes to rough terrain, Thule luggage shines with its robust build. It is designed to handle bumps and jolts, making it ideal for outdoor trips. Away luggage, while sturdy, may not perform as well on uneven surfaces.

Airline Handling and Durability

Both brands have been tested under airline conditions. In our tests, Thule luggage showed better resilience against drops and rough handling. Away luggage is also durable but may show signs of wear after multiple flights.

In summary, for adventurers looking for luggage that can handle tough conditions, Thule may be the better choice. However, Away still offers solid performance for most travelers.

Ease of Use and Maneuverability

When it comes to traveling, ease of use is key. Both Away and Thule luggage offer features that make them easy to handle and move around.

Wheel Design and Functionality

• Four-Wheel Systems: Both brands typically feature four wheels, allowing for smooth movement in crowded spaces.
• Two-Wheel Options: Thule offers some two-wheeled designs that can handle rougher terrains better.
• Wheel Durability: Away’s wheels are designed for longevity, making them reliable for various travel conditions.

Handle Comfort and Adjustability

• Telescoping Handles: Both brands have adjustable handles that cater to different heights, ensuring comfort while pulling.
• Grip Design: The handles are designed for a comfortable grip, reducing strain during long walks.
• Stability: Away’s handle design minimizes wobbling, making it easier to maneuver.

Packing and Unpacking Convenience

• Flat Packing Surface: Away luggage features a flat interior, making it easier to pack without awkward crevices.
• Organizational Compartments: Thule includes multiple compartments for better organization, helping you find items quickly.
• Expandable Sections: Both brands offer expandable options, allowing for extra packing space when needed.

In summary, both Away and Thule luggage are designed with user-friendliness in mind, making them great choices for any adventure. Whether you’re navigating through an airport or exploring a new city, these bags are built to enhance your travel experience.

For those who prioritize ease of use, either brand will serve you well, but personal preferences in design and features may sway your decision.

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Security Features and Warranty

Locking Mechanisms

Both Away and Thule luggage come equipped with reliable locking mechanisms to keep your belongings safe. Here are some key features:

• Away: Uses a TSA-approved lock, allowing airport security to open your bag without damaging it.
• Thule: Features a robust locking system that secures zippers, providing extra peace of mind.
• Both brands ensure that their locks are easy to use and effective in deterring theft.

Warranty Coverage

When it comes to warranties, both brands offer impressive coverage:

• Away: Provides a limited lifetime warranty that covers defects and damage from airline handling, ensuring your luggage is protected for years.
• Thule: Also offers a lifetime warranty, covering manufacturing defects and providing support for any issues that arise during use.
• Both warranties are designed to give travelers confidence in their purchase.

Customer Support and Service

Customer support is crucial for any luggage brand. Here’s how Away and Thule stack up:

• Away: Known for responsive customer service, with many users reporting positive experiences when seeking help.
• Thule: Offers comprehensive support, including online resources and direct assistance for warranty claims.
• Both brands prioritize customer satisfaction, making it easy to get help when needed.

In summary, both Away and Thule luggage provide strong security features and excellent warranty options, making them reliable choices for adventure travelers. Their commitment to quality and customer service ensures that your luggage will stand the test of time, whether you’re on a weekend getaway or an extended journey.

Price and Value for Money

Cost Comparison

When it comes to pricing, both Away and Thule offer a range of options that cater to different budgets. Here’s a quick look at their popular models:

Features vs. Price

Both brands provide good value, but they differ in features:

• Away: Known for its sleek design and durability, but it may lack some external pockets.
• Thule: Offers more internal compartments and better weather resistance, making it a solid choice for adventurers.
• Travelpro: A budget-friendly option that still provides essential features without breaking the bank.

Long-Term Investment

Investing in quality luggage can save you money in the long run. Consider these points:

1. Durability: Higher-priced luggage often lasts longer, reducing the need for replacements.
2. Warranty: Both brands offer warranties, but check the details to ensure you’re covered for airline damage.
3. Resale Value: Premium brands like Away and Thule tend to hold their value better than cheaper alternatives.

In conclusion, while Away and Thule may have higher upfront costs, their durability and features can make them worthwhile investments for frequent travelers. Choosing the right luggage can enhance your travel experience significantly.

User Reviews and Feedback

Customer Satisfaction

Many users have shared their experiences with both Away and Thule luggage. Overall, customers appreciate the quality and functionality of both brands. Here are some common points mentioned in reviews:

• Durability: Both brands are noted for their strong materials, making them suitable for various travel conditions.
• Design: Users often comment on the sleek and modern look of both luggage options.
• Functionality: Many travelers find the internal compartments and organization features helpful for packing.

Common Complaints

While both brands have their strengths, some users have pointed out areas for improvement:

1. Weight: Some travelers feel that both brands could be lighter, especially when fully packed.
2. Price: A few reviews mention that the cost is on the higher side, which may not fit every budget.
3. Limited Warranty: Some users wish for a longer warranty period to ensure their investment is protected.

Overall Ratings

In general, both Away and Thule luggage receive positive ratings from users. Here’s a quick comparison:

Both brands have their loyal fans, and the choice often comes down to personal preference and specific travel needs. For those looking for more capacity, Thule may offer slightly more room, but Away’s standard carry-on is also well-sized for most flights.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main differences between Away and Thule luggage?

Away luggage is known for its sleek design and lightweight materials, while Thule luggage is built for durability and can handle rough conditions.

Which luggage is better for outdoor adventures?

Thule luggage is often preferred for outdoor adventures due to its tough build and weather-resistant materials.

Are Away and Thule luggage easy to maneuver?

Both brands have good wheel designs, but Thule luggage tends to be bulkier, which might make it harder to roll in tight spaces.

How do the prices of Away and Thule luggage compare?

Away luggage generally starts at lower prices, while Thule tends to be pricier due to its durable materials and features.

What kind of warranty do Away and Thule offer?

Away provides a lifetime warranty, while Thule has a limited warranty, which may vary by product.

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Which luggage is more stylish?

Away luggage is often seen as more stylish with its modern designs, while Thule focuses more on functionality.