The verdict
Is The Carry-On worth it?
Yes — The Carry-On is one of the stronger picks we track in travel & luggage. It holds 2 verified certifications (B Corp, FSC Certified). Priced in the $$$ band.
- Cruelty-freeUnverified
- VeganNo
- Plastic-free packagingUnverified
- Recyclable / compostableUnverified
- Palm-oil safeUnverified
- Certified organicUnverified
- Fair labourYes
Away
The Carry-On
Ethics Score
Composite of certifications, ingredient analysis, and sustainability practices.
Certifications
Buy From
* Affiliate links help support EthiCompare's mission.
Customer Rating
Best for
Frequent flyers and business travelers seeking a durable, long-term investment that minimizes waste.
AI Ethics Review
A high-performance polycarbonate suitcase from a certified B Corp known for durable construction and a lifetime warranty that reduces landfill waste.
Gallery
Claim-by-claim check
The questions shoppers ask most about The Carry-On, answered from certifications, tags and sourcing notes on file.
- Is The Carry-On cruelty-free?
- Unverified — no third-party cruelty-free certification is recorded for The Carry-On in our database.
- Is The Carry-On vegan?
- No — signals in our data suggest The Carry-On does not meet this criterion.
- Is The Carry-On plastic-free?
- Unverified — we have no plastic-free packaging claim on record for The Carry-On.
- Is The Carry-On recyclable or compostable?
- Unverified — end-of-life handling for The Carry-On is not documented in our data.
- Does The Carry-On avoid problem palm oil?
- Unverified — no palm-oil policy is recorded for The Carry-On.
- Is The Carry-On certified organic?
- Unverified — no organic certification is on file for The Carry-On.
- Is The Carry-On fairly made?
- Yes — The Carry-On is backed by a labour or fair-trade standard.
Ethics Breakdown
Each pillar is independently scored from public certifications, ingredient/material sourcing, and brand disclosures, then averaged into the composite Ethics Score above.
How it compares in Travel & Luggage
Benchmarked against 3 other published products in the same category.
0%
of compared products score lower
-20
points vs the category average
2
verified certifications on file
In-Depth Review
Design and Durability
The Carry-On by Away is engineered for the modern traveler who prioritizes both aesthetic and longevity. Unlike disposable luggage that often ends up in landfills after a few seasons, Away utilizes a high-grade polycarbonate shell that is designed to flex under pressure rather than crack. This durability is the cornerstone of their sustainability mission: creating products that last a lifetime. The interior features a signature compression system that allows travelers to pack more in less space, potentially reducing the need for multiple bags.
Ethical Sourcing and Production
As a certified B Corp, Away is held to high standards of social and environmental performance. The brand focuses on responsible manufacturing partners who adhere to strict codes of conduct regarding fair wages and safe working environments. While the shell is synthetic, its longevity is a direct counter to the 'fast fashion' culture of travel accessories. The lining and mesh pockets are crafted from recycled polyester, further reducing the virgin plastic footprint of the production cycle.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Hard Shell | Impact-resistant polycarbonate protects belongings |
| 360° Wheels | Premium Hinomoto spinners for smooth transit |
| Interior Compression | Maximize space and stay organized |
Value vs Competitors
Compared to premium luxury brands like Rimowa, Away offers a similar level of durability and style at a fraction of the price. While it is more expensive than budget nylon bags, the lifetime warranty provides significant long-term value. If the shell or wheels break, Away repairs or replaces the item, ensuring it doesn't become waste. This 'buy once' philosophy is a key pillar of their ethical framework.
"I've taken this bag through three continents and twelve countries. It still looks brand new, and knowing I won't have to replace it in two years makes it a much more conscious purchase than my previous bags." — Verified Buyer, Sarah L.
Pro tip
Use the included laundry bag to separate clean and soiled clothes, which helps maintain the integrity of the interior lining and prevents odors from setting into the recycled fabric.
Environment and Packaging
Away has transitioned to using FSC-certified cardboard for all shipping materials, ensuring that the packaging is sourced from responsibly managed forests. They have also implemented programs to reduce carbon emissions in their logistics chain by optimizing shipping routes and using sea freight where possible to minimize high-impact air transport.
Pros
- ✓Lifetime warranty covering repairs
- ✓Exceptional wheel maneuverability
- ✓Efficent internal compression system
- ✓Certified B Corp status
Cons
- ✗Matte finish shows scuffs easily
- ✗Higher price point than entry-level luggage
Key Facts
- Brand
- Away
- Category
- Travel & Luggage
- Ethics Score
- 78/100
- Price Range
- $$$ (≈ $275)
- Avg Rating
- 4.8/5 (12450 reviews)
- size
- 21.7" x 13.7" x 9"
- origin
- Designed in NYC, Manufactured in China
- weight
- 7.1 lbs
- material
- Polycarbonate
- packaging
- FSC Certified Cardboard
- Certifications
- B Corp, FSC Certified
🌱 Sustainability
Lifetime warranty encourages long-term use; B Corp certification ensures rigorous third-party oversight of social and environmental impact.
🧪 Ingredients & Materials
Polycarbonate shell, recycled polyester interior lining, leather accents (sourced from LWG-certified tanneries).
Price & where to buy
Typically around $275 — prices change often, so check the live listing.
Affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. It never affects the ethics score.
What Reviewers Say
"Away’s commitment to a lifetime warranty makes it a standout for those looking to invest in a piece of gear that won't end up in a landfill."
"It outperformed almost every other polycarbonate suitcase in our durability tests, surviving multiple drop tests without cracking."
"While it still uses plastic, Away's move toward B Corp status and recycled interior linings marks a positive shift in the industry."
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Carry-On by Away ethically made?+
Yes. The Carry-On earns an EthiCompare ethics score of 78/100, backed by third-party certifications including B Corp, FSC Certified. A high-performance polycarbonate suitcase from a certified B Corp known for durable construction and a lifetime warranty that reduces landfill waste.
Is The Carry-On worth buying?+
The Carry-On scores 78/100 on our ethics rating. That puts it in the upper band of the products we track, so it is a defensible buy on ethics grounds.
Is The Carry-On cruelty-free?+
We have not verified a third-party cruelty-free certification for The Carry-On. See our Away verdict page for the brand's full animal-testing position.
Is The Carry-On vegan?+
The Carry-On does not carry a certified vegan claim in our database. Check the ingredient notes above and the brand's own disclosure before buying.
What are the best alternatives to The Carry-On?+
We list higher-scoring travel & luggage products from other brands on this page, and a full set of ethical alternatives to Away on its alternatives page.
What certifications does The Carry-On hold?+
The Carry-On holds the following certifications: B Corp, FSC Certified. These independent verifications cover sourcing, animal welfare, environmental impact, and ingredient safety.
How sustainable is The Carry-On?+
Lifetime warranty encourages long-term use; B Corp certification ensures rigorous third-party oversight of social and environmental impact.
What are the key ingredients or materials in The Carry-On?+
Polycarbonate shell, recycled polyester interior lining, leather accents (sourced from LWG-certified tanneries).
How much does The Carry-On cost?+
The Carry-On is priced in the $$$ range for travel & luggage. Visit the retailer links above for current pricing.
Where can I buy The Carry-On?+
The Carry-On is available from the brand's official website and major retailers. The product page above lists every verified retailer we track.
Is The Carry-On plastic-free?+
Unverified — we have no plastic-free packaging claim on record for The Carry-On.
Is The Carry-On recyclable or compostable?+
Unverified — end-of-life handling for The Carry-On is not documented in our data.
Does The Carry-On avoid problem palm oil?+
Unverified — no palm-oil policy is recorded for The Carry-On.
Is The Carry-On certified organic?+
Unverified — no organic certification is on file for The Carry-On.
Is The Carry-On fairly made?+
Yes — The Carry-On is backed by a labour or fair-trade standard.
Customer Reviews
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Questions & Answers
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