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Having the right piece of luggage can really improve your travel experience — finding that piece of luggage can sometimes be easier said than done.
For years I had relied on a lineup of soft-sided roller bags, both checked and carry-ons. However, for the past couple of years, I have been using hard-shelled suitcases exclusively, and I can’t imagine going back.
The soft bags were sturdy and did their jobs well, but they got dirty, stained, and generally just didn’t age well. Plus, I was never fully confident about the safety of my stuff inside them getting squished throughout my travels.
My family’s current luggage lineup consists of large, hardside Delsey suitcases and Away carry-ons. They have been great because we can pack them to the gills and they don’t tip, they’re easy to roll through the airports (the kids can even help), and they can be easily cleaned with a quick wipe down.
The newest additions to the lineup are a Monos Carry-On Pro and a Monos Check-In Medium and they are quickly becoming a household favorite.
If you have done any research for checked or carry-on luggage lately, you have probably come across the Monos brand. Founded in 2018, this relatively new Canadian luggage maker is making some beautifully simplistic premium bags — without the full premium price (the bags aren’t inexpensive, but they provide great value).
I received 2 of these popular bags and put them to the test. Let’s take a look at them up close.
Monos is based in Vancouver, Canada, and is dedicated to creating well-designed, premium suitcases. The simple designs are meant to be timeless, and with high-quality parts and materials, the bags are designed to be around for a while.
At a quick glance, there is a lot to like about this company. Besides making really good-looking bags (and clothes and accessories), Monos is Climate Neutral Certified, which means the company has net-zero carbon emissions — the first luggage brand to do so.
It also donates 1% of its revenue to verified nonprofit organizations that are dedicated to preserving and restoring the natural world… not a bad thing!
Add in the fact that bags come with a 100-day trial period and a lifetime warranty on parts, it is easy to see why so many people have quickly adopted this brand.
I mentioned the warranty, and Monos stands behind it because it is so confident in the quality of its products.
All of the hardside bags are made with water-resistant, German Makrolon polycarbonate, which is a lightweight, aerospace-grade, vegan material that is nearly impossible to break.
The materials go through over 40 durability tests, including colorfastness, water repellency, and strength and impact tests. If you want to see some behind-the-scenes testing examples, check out the quality testing videos.
Monos has 2 sizes for both its carry-on and larger checked bags. Depending on your travel habits, not every bag may be a good fit.
Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9 inches
The only difference between the Carry-On, Hybrid Carry-On, and the Carry-On Pro is that the Pro has a built-in front pocket. The dimensions remain the same.
These models should fit in nearly any overhead bin of any plane, even regional jets.
Dimensions: 23 x 15 x 9.5 inches
Just like its siblings, the only difference between the Carry-On Plus, Hybrid Carry-On Plus, and the Carry-On Pro Plus is the front pocket. However, the “Plus” version means that they are a bit larger.
These models probably won’t fit in the overhead bin in smaller planes but are fine on larger planes that the U.S. carriers tend to fly.
Dimensions: 26.5 x 18.5 x 10.5 inches
The Check-In Medium is the smallest large bag. Bigger than the Carry-Ons, it’s probably good enough for a couple to share on a quick trip or an individual on a longer trip.
Plus, the Carry-Ons can easily nest inside these bags for easy storage.
Dimensions: 30 x 21 x 11 inches
The Check-In Large is the biggest of the lineup with plenty of room for overpacking and bringing home souvenirs.
Hot Tip: Will the carry-on or checked bags from Monos fit on your upcoming flight? Check out our size chart guides that include allowances for all major airlines for carry-on luggage and checked luggage.
Over the past 2 months, I have been testing the Carry-On Pro and Check-In Medium bags on both international trips with my family, as well as some quick weekend getaways.
Both bags arrived nicely packaged in brown boxes that were clearly labeled.
Inside the boxes, each bag was covered in a drawstring bag to prevent any scratches during shipping.
Both bags came with a nice little introduction card, some bacteria-resistant laundry bags, an imitation leather, vegan luggage tag, and a scratch-eraser sponge.
The first thing you will notice about these bags is that they are very sleek, and have an understated styling. I personally find them very good-looking.
The simple, hardshell look has become very popular thanks to Away, but Monos has done a good job making subtle changes to stand out a bit.
I ordered the Olive Green, but there are plenty of colors and patterns to choose from on the site.
I was really excited about the Carry-On Pro because previously my Away bag did not have an outside pocket. My wife has one and I always regretted not ordering my bag with one — now I have one!
Having an outside pocket on a hardside bag really makes a difference, because it is almost impossible to partially open up one of these bags to grab something inside like a passport. By having an outside pocket, quick things like a laptop during security or passports during check-in can be easily accessed.
That being said, the outside pocket on the Carry-On Pro is also a hardshell, which means it is not very forgiving. After some trial and error, I found the best use is for very thin items because anything too bulky will prevent the pocket from closing.
By comparison, my wife’s Away bag has a leather pocket that is more flexible and feels larger, as well.
Inside, the bag has 2 sides — 1 that gets zippered closed, and the other that has a sturdy cover panel that flips up and down and is secured with straps. Both the panel and mesh have zippered storage as well.
The Check-In Medium has a pretty standard design on the inside but was surprisingly spacious. Smaller than my 29-inch Delseys, it held an impressive amount of stuff as we were wrapping up a 2-month trip.
One side of the bag zips completely closed so that nothing falls out when flipping it open, and the other side has a clasp that covers the contents in an “X” to secure them.
The build quality is impressive. I have gone through my fair share of cheap bags, and it is very clear that these bags will be in our fleet for a while.
Even after reading about the “German Makrolon polycarbonate” (which honestly means nothing to me), the most noticeable thing about these bags is how solid they feel. They aren’t heavy, but they roll with authority and can take a beating.
We packed the Check-In Medium with as much as we could and checked it with American Airlines for a flight from Boston to Miami and then to Rio de Janeiro. Somewhere in Miami it got separated from the rest of our bags and ended up in Santo Domingo.
After 2.5 days I assumed it was gone or would be delivered in pieces. To my surprise, it survived and rolled right into my house as if nothing had happened.
Having a smooth, easy-rolling bag is really important for me and my family. We travel heavy, with many bags, so if 1 of those bags has a bad wheel or doesn’t glide easily, it can throw off the momentum for all of the other bags. Plus, if bags are easy enough to push or pull, our kids can help out.
The Monos bags use Hinomoto Lisof Silent Run wheels, which are equally smooth and quiet. Whether on bumpy sidewalks, hotel carpets, or in the airport, the bags were effortless to move around.
While I usually push my bags upright on the 4 spinner wheels, my 7-year-old ended up pulling the Carry-On Pro on an angle on only 2 wheels and it performed quite well — which isn’t always the case with spinner bags.
In my experience, the only time you really notice a luggage handle is when it’s uncomfortable, wobbly, or doesn’t work properly. It’s a good sign that until writing this review, I had not really noticed the handle on either of my Monos bags.
Both bags have the same pop-up handle with a button on the underside that slides up easily and stays in place in one of the height options.
After doing some more research on monos.com, I learned that the company dedicates a whole section to the handle and how it re-engineered it with high-grade aluminum that fits at opposing 45-degree angles to reduce lateral and torsional movement. That sounds complex, but the result is simple — a solid and comfortable handle.
Both the Carry-On models and Check-In models come with integrated TSA-approved locks on the side of the bags.
The locks are pretty standard, the only difference compared to my Away bag is that the Monos lock is located on the side of the bag, while Away puts the lock on the top.
I think I like having the lock on the top for easier access and seeing the numbers, but having it on the side makes for a cleaner look. Either way, it’s a nice option to have.
The zippers so far have been sturdy. The only issue I have had so far is overpacking the outside pocket of the Carry-On Pro — with no flexibility, the pocket simply won’t close. Having an extender there would be a nice touch.
Monos bags do not come with a built-in battery. That was the first thing I noticed when I opened the bags, and at first, I was disappointed.
Even though I rarely use the battery option on my Away bag, it’s nice to know it’s there. That being said, I have plenty of battery packs that I can bring along.
Bottom Line: Monos has put together an impressive lineup for sleek, stylish, and well-built bags that can compete with any of the premium competitors.
Anyone looking for a new suitcase knows that it is a crowded market. With countless brands, styles, colors, and prices to choose from, you could spend more time doing research on a bag than you spend using it.
Although prices can vary, if you are interested in a Monos bag, you have probably looked at the following brands as well:
Hot Tip: If you are debating between Monos and Away, check out our review of Away’s The Carry-On suitcase.
Monos bags are not inexpensive, however, they are much less expensive than some other premium bags like Rimowa that can set you back $600 to $1,000.
Monos bags start at $275 for the Carry-On and can get up to $413 for the Limited Edition Check-In Large suitcase. However, sales aren’t uncommon and both of those bags are $50 to $100 off at the time of this writing.
Depending on the model you choose, the price may vary slightly. The current models are:
Every Monos suitcase comes with a limited lifetime warranty for U.S. and Canadian residents that is valid for the original owner only — it is not transferrable.
The lifetime warranty covers cracks or breaks to the outer shell, any wheels or handles that break off or are unusable, or zippers that can’t be opened or closed.
The warranty doesn’t cover anything cosmetic like scratches or dents. And only defective parts will be replaced, not the entire bag.
You can read the full warranty on the Monos website.
There is also a 100-day trial of the luggage to see if it is the right fit for you. That way you can be sure you got the right size and color before committing, because these bags will be around for a while!
Hot Tip: Do you still need help with your next bag purchase? Don’t miss our list of the best checked luggage bags for any traveler!
You can only buy Monos bags at monos.com, so if you are interested, head on over to the site and check out the full lineup.
If you are lucky, you might catch a sale!
Overall, I am really happy with the 2 new additions to my luggage lineup. Without hesitation, the Olive Green Carry-On Pro has been my go-to bag for weekend trips and as a carry-on.
The Check-In Medium gives me and my family a nice intermediate option if we don’t want to lug one of our large suitcases around, and the color and style really set it apart.
While Monos is near the top of the price range when compared with the competition in the same category, the quality and lifetime warranty can justify the cost.
Although I was disappointed at first about not having a built-in battery, I have come around and realized that it isn’t totally necessary and I can always just toss one in the outside pocket if I feel like I need to bring one along.
With the premium materials, high-end craftsmanship, great colors, and functions, I can easily recommend a Monos bag to my friends and family. If you have any questions about the bags, let me know in the comments section!
Yes! Monos bags are really high-quality bags. From the wheels and handles to the polycarbonate shells, everything has been well-designed and tested thoroughly.
Monos bags come with a limited lifetime warranty that covers almost anything that breaks. However, the warranty is non-transferable, so only the original owner can file a claim.
No, Monos bags do not come with a removable battery.
To change the original code, set the dials to the opening combination. Press the reset button with a pen until you hear a click. Once the button is in, you can set your own combination by turning the dials. When you are done, push the slider button in the direction of the arrow until the reset button pops back up. You can repeat this process whenever you want to change your code.
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Chris holds a B.S. in Hospitality and Tourism Management and managed social media for all Marriott properties in South America, making him a perfect fit for UP and its social media channels. He has a passion for making content catered toward family travelers.
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12 comments
Bill
November 22, 2021
It is a lie. They do not take returns after the luggage has been used even once. I was told to use a mallet to fix my monos luggage after one use. It was dented, scratched, gouged. It no longer looks as fashionable as they advertise. Also, twice I tried to leave reviews and they never show up on their website.
Lisa Montafia
February 19, 2022
Same here!!!! During its first use it got a big dent by the wheel. I contacted them and they told me I can fix it on my own!!! After a couple uses it looks so shabby I’m embarrassed to fly with it! Also wrote a review and surprise, was not posted.
Mary Edwards
December 22, 2021
I too had a bad experience. I bought a check-in large suitcase. The first trip I used it, the zipper pulls broke off in the locking mechanism. I notified Monos and included a photo. They told me that they can’t source new pulls, and they don’t know how to fix it, so I should take it to a shoe repair shop. Then they offered me a $25 Monos coupon, estimating it as the same as the cost of the repair!
Michael Gordon
January 14, 2022
I ordered 2 bags from Monos when they were on sale for Black Friday. When they arrived, one was not the color I ordered. I planned to keep it because I needed them for a trip. I programmed the code for the locks and one did not work. It locked but would not open with the code. Luckily, I had not packed it yet.
I used the one that was the wrong color for my trip and planned to return the one that won’t open. I will have to pay $50. to return the broken one and will receive a store credit or refund, which will not be enough to buy a replacement from Monos.
Holly Bosshard
April 05, 2022
Unfortunately, I have had a negative experience with this company. We bought a couple of pieces from mono, but the carry-on pros zipper broke on our first trip. When I contacted Mono, the representative told me to take it to my local tailor, and that they’d reimburse me. Huh?! Take it to my local tailor? For a $250 carry-on luggage, I would think that they’d replace the suitcase. With an essential part of the functionality of their product in working order. Not send me to a local tailor.
Jai Kanhai
July 22, 2022
I’m having similar problems with the company and their attitude had been – it’s out of their hands that the product didn’t arrive as scheduled and is now weeks late. I travel soon and now have to last minute look for luggage.
Horrible product. Do not buy Monos.
Kris
August 18, 2022
I regret my purchase. I am having a similar experience as the other commenters. I chose the Carry-On Plus and it arrived about four weeks ago. I brought it on just one trip. The shell bent and warped. The response from customer service surprised me; they will not replace, refund or even fix it. I do wish that I had purchased luggage from a company with more of a history of standing by their product.
CAP
October 02, 2022
I purchased a light blue suitcase through Monos.com after reading several good reviews. The interior design of the bag was decent, nothing amazing but I was happy with it. When I arrived at my destination after first use the bag looked as though I’d been using it for years, it was scuffed and dirty. It actually looked substantially worse than the bag I was replacing that had been used for years internationally and domestically. This was after only one domestic flight. I contacted Monos and they do not seem to offer any type of customer satisfaction guarantee. I was told I could clean my suitcase with soap and water or use a sponge that came with the bag. This wasn’t an adequate response, especially considering the cost of this bag. I highly recommend avoiding Monos bags, I don’t believe they will stand behind their product. Monos offer a 100 day money back guarantee that is voided if the bag has been used. This is a pointless return guarantee since the true test of a bag is how it holds up to airline travel.
Teri Soldat
December 02, 2022
I purchased a medium and a large but they do not nest for storage.
Rise
April 12, 2023
Away has far superior warranty than Monos. Away has 100-day trial period. You can use the suitcase for travel during the travel period and return the suitcase for any reason. The company pays the postage for returning the suitcase. Monos has 100-day trial period but you can only gently use the suitcase inside. If you want to return it it has to be unused and in brand-new condition. Away has the most incredible customer service. Away always stands by its suitcases! It is a pleasure to deal with Away. Away is selling suitcases but also peace of mind!
Jose Durand
April 15, 2023
Recently purchased a carry on. They send it to an incorrect address. I advised them immediately when shipping notice was received. That same day I chat with them and the response a got was to contact UPS. Seriously!!! I did not send it to the incorrect address. They answered after a week a customer service ticket asking for appologies for the late reponse because they where busy. Two weeks now no carry on yet. Monos don’t have the slightest idea what customer service is.
Jordan
June 28, 2023
In December of 2022, I purchased a Monos Metro Sling in Black Nylon, and for a couple months greatly enjoyed occasional use of this product as a cross-body bag –– the bag itself is functional yet sleek. HOWEVER, the bag’s zipper (which is explicitly advertised on the product page as “Anti-Catch”!) began to continually catch on the fabric lining of the inner edge / zipper tape. After having to tug it loose a couple of times, the zipper than stopped closing the teeth on both sides, rendering the bag open at all times and completely useless!
Worse yet has been Monos’ customer service: a month after submitting a warranty claim for the product’s advertised 2-year warranty (which should cover and include damage the product sustained by itself with only occasional use), I have gotten no response. Even after sending weekly emails, the most I have gotten is an automated email response each time, and at one point they even sent an email listing some random employees’ name, asking me to “rate [my] experience” with the “team member that assisted you”–– which is funny, since I have gotten no human response since my first email. With a bit of searching I found various threads warning of Monos’ poor customer service and response to warranty claims regarding their luggage, but for as simple of a product as an every-day bag, their (lack of) response has turned me from a customer who would otherwise enjoy their aesthetically attractive products into one who will be warning others to STAY AWAY so as to avoid this horrible experience!
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