Is Monos Luggage Good? I have mixed feelings.

A well-designed suitcase is essential for frequent travelers or digital nomads. This is probably the most important travel item. Pick the right one so that you can organize all your travel gear and other essentials securely.

Since your luggage plays such a critical role, it’s easy to understand why many people consider investing in quality over the cheapest option.

Monos is one of the newer luggage brands shaking up the market, offering a sleek and modern lineup of travel products. But is it actually good? And does it live up to the hype compared to big names like Samsonite or Tumi?

Here’s what I discovered about Monos luggage—and whether it might be right for you.

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What Is Monos Luggage?

Monos is a Vancouver-based company specializing in travel products, with a strong focus on premium luggage. Known for its minimalist aesthetic and high functionality, Monos stands out by combining style with practical features travelers will love.

What really caught my eye is Monos’ commitment to sustainability. The brand is climate-neutral certified, uses cruelty-free materials, and offsets its carbon emissions. If being eco-conscious is important to you, that’s a big plus.

But as much as I appreciate these efforts, the real question remains: Is Monos luggage good enough to justify the price tag?

Key Features of Monos Luggage

One thing Monos does well is nailing the basics. Their suitcases are simple, stylish, and available in a range of colors—occasionally even in limited-edition shades.

The hard shell of these suitcases is constructed out of aerospace-grade polycarbonate, a material known for its extreme durability and shock resistance. The adjustable telescopic handle and silent-run wheels make them easily portable.

Monos has also covered the safety aspect pretty well with sturdy YKK zippers and TSA combination locks to ensure your belongings are secure.

Also, All Monos luggage comes with an anti-microbial laundry bag, a couple of shoe bags, and a luggage tag made out of vegan leather.

If you're in a hurry, here's a brief highlight of what Monos has to offer:

• Various Sizes
• Minimal and Chic Designs
• Functional Features
• TSA-Approved Locks

What else can you expect out of Monos luggage? Well, Monos is also a climate-neutral certified brand. As I mentioned above, you can feel good about buying items from this company!

Monos also offers non-physical perks like a lifetime warranty, a 100-day return policy, and free shipping in the USA and Canada.

Classic Collection: Monos Carry-On

The carry-on range features 4 models:

• Monos Carry-On - $265
• Monos Carry-On Plus - $280
• Monos Carry-On Pro - $295
• Monos Carry-On Pro Plus - $315

(Why companies are naming their products after Apple's products perplex me to this day lol)

The interior of the Carry-On lineups is incredibly well-designed. Monos Luggage is lined with antimicrobial material on the interior, which keeps you clean and organized. There are also plenty of pockets to help you organize your essentials!

Monos suitcases ensure you stay organized during your travels with a zippered panel on one side and a compression pad-held compartment on the other.

I was confused about the differences in these bags, so I found out what you need to look out for. Here are the details of each model of Monos' Carry-On collection:

Carry-On

The Carry-On is made to be the most suitable luggage size, fitting in as many overhead flight bins as possible.

Monos' standard size carry is the perfect cabin-sized travel buddy, no matter your destination or air carrier, with exterior measurements of 22" × 14" × 9".

Carry-On Plus

The Carry-On Plus is a bigger "sibling" of the original Carry-On from Monos. It's the ideal suitcase for travelers looking for extra space.

Monos claims that the size dimensions of the Carry-On Plus mean it'll fit most major US airline carriers and larger airplanes. But, if you're flying on a smaller plane or going with an airline with stricter carry-on guidelines, this may not be your luggage.

The Carry-On Plus dimensions are 23" x 15" x 9.5".

Carry-On Pro

The next variation is the Carry-On Pro. It's the same size as the original Carry-On, but it comes with a front pocket, a laptop sleeve, and zippered pouches.

Carry-On Pro Plus

Same idea here. Take the Carry-On Plus and slap on the additional outside pocket to store electronic items like laptops, iPads, or travel headphones. That's what Monos' Carry-On Pro Plus is.

Tip: The Carry-On Pro Plus will likely not fit in overhead bins in smaller planes or airlines, and it's also bulkier for a carry-on.

Conclusions About the Carry-On Lineup

Now you know the differences between the different models. How do they fare as a travel companion?

These Carry-On bags fit all great luggage criteria: easy maneuvering, highly durable materials, and easily organized.

That being said, these suitcases don't always meet size restrictions. One tip I would give is to check the dimensions of your Monos Carry-On, especially the Pro and Pro Plus, with your preferred airline to ensure it fits!

Also, the most common complaint about Mono's Pro suitcases is that it's difficult to close the front pocket if packed to the optimum capacity. Pack wisely and accordingly!

Classic Collection: Monos Check-In Luggage

The Check-In suitcases are available in 2 sizes:

• Monos Check-In Medium - $335
• Monos Check-In Large - $365

Mono's Check-In Luggage gives me a sleek and well-polished first impression with its matte finish. Check-in medium has a capacity of 70L and can hold standard carry-on luggage.

If you're looking for a larger suitcase, go for the Check-In Large with an increased capacity of 90L.

As for the interior, you can store your clothes on one side, use compression straps to keep them compact and close the panel. There are zippered pouches on the other side to organize items like shoes, books, etc.

They also come in 12 different stylish colors, which are great for travelers to easily identify their luggage from the airport's baggage carousel!

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Hybrid Collection

Monos Hybrid comes in 5 variations, which are mixed between carry-on and checked luggage sizes:

• Monos Hybrid Carry-On - $335
• Monos Hybrid Carry-On Plus - $355
• Monos Hybrid Check-In Medium - $415
• Monos Hybrid Check-In Large - $445
• Monos Hybrid Trunk - $465

The hybrid model's exterior combines aluminum and polycarbonate, utilizing the best features of the two materials to create and define a class of its own.

Additionally, the zippered opening has been replaced by two TSA latch locks for optimum security for your belongings. The Monos Hybrid is great for travelers looking for a better-quality carry-on suitcase.

Monos Hybrid comes in 3 colors, and some models neatly inside the check-in suitcases.

I'll explain in further details what the difference between the original and hybrids are.

Hybrid Carry-On & Carry-On Plus

Hybrid Carry-On Monos travel suitcases are made of different materials. That means taking all of the great features of the Carry-On and Carry-On Plus and then adding the durability of aluminum to it.

In these carry-on suitcases, you'll find a hard polycarbonate shell with a refined metallic finish, a zipperless aluminum frame, and anodized aluminum corner guards. Talk about a hardy suitcase!

Like the Carry-On and Carry-On Plus, the difference between the 2 Hybrid versions is also the size. The Hybrid Carry-On Plus will have slightly larger dimensions. That means it's important to check whether it'll fit on your planned airline.

Hybrid Check-In Medium & Large

These items are the same ideas as above. The Hybrid Check-In Medium and the Hybrid Check-In Large are "upgraded" versions of Monos' Check-In lineup.

Hybrid Trunk

Monos' Hybrid Trunk puts a fresh, more modern spin on a classic look. This newer addition stands taller, making it a breeze to pack for those longer or extended journeys.

I personally disliked this look the most, but that's just my personal opinion.

Benefits of Monos Suitcases

Lasting Quality

Monos has addressed the quality issue of the adjustable, wobbly handles found in many suitcases. The telescopic handle in Monos suitcases is sturdy, and the release button is underneath the handle. The 360 spinner wheels work like a charm as well.

100-Day Trial Period

The 100-day trial period lets you return the product if you are unsatisfied. The only catch is you have to return it in its original condition. That's a huge "if".

Drawbacks Monos Suitcases

Colors That Dirty Easily

Light-colored suitcases can get dirty quickly. Additionally, you might notice scuffs and scratches over time. But honestly, which bags don't? An eraser is provided to get rid of them, but we are unsure if it works on tough ones.

Pricey

While being very worth the price, Monos Luggage is not an option for travelers hunting for the cheapest. Its suitcases range from around $250 to $400. But you can wait for a Monos luggage bag sale for great discounts.

I'm all for finding budget-friendly solutions for travelers! But you should splurge a little more for a well-built suitcase that lasts up to 10-15 years. It's both sustainable and cost-efficient!

Customer Service

This used to be a benefit of Monos, but in recent years, it has dropped to be a drawback.

Tons of reports on Reddit and other channels revealed, to absolutely nobody's surprise, another travel product's mediocre customer service program.

Customers have reported that Monos customer service has often provided "helpful tips" to cover up flaws or damages instead of offering to repair or replace them.

This probably makes or breaks (pun intended) the luggage brand for me, honestly. I've had my suitcase recalled and repaired after 8 years of wear and tear for absolutely free. Monos can and should do better, especially since it's priced so high.

Using Monos Suitcases

Monos suitcases touts not only quality on the outside but efficiency in how you can pack with a Monos suitcase on the inside.

Packing With a Monos Luggage

When packing them, I recommend placing heavier items at the bottom. Use the provided dividers and pockets for smaller items and toiletries.

There's also a compression pad that can be handy for minimizing the space your clothes take. Even if you don't have a set of packing cubes, the features in most of the Monos luggage will still allow you to pack more efficiently.

Don’t forget to utilize the hidden laundry bag for your used clothes.

Securing Your Belongings

Monos suitcases come with a built-in TSA-approved lock, ensuring your belongings are secure during travel.

Set a memorable combination, and remember to lock your suitcase before heading to the airport. The TSA-approved lock allows for lawful access by airport security while keeping your contents secure.

Cleaning the Suitcase

For the exterior, using a damp cloth with mild soap should suffice for removing dirt and stains—you could even consider using the magic eraser! Avoid abrasive cleaners as they can damage the surface.

For the interior, vacuuming can help remove dust and debris. Mild soap and water on a soft cloth work well for spot cleaning. Ensure the suitcase is completely dry before storing it.

Wheeling and Handling

The Hinomoto wheels on Monos suitcases are designed for smooth and quiet maneuvering. Use the telescopic handle when wheeling and avoid dragging the suitcase over rough surfaces to prevent wear and tear.

When lifting, use both the side and top handles to distribute the weight evenly and avoid stress on the handle joints.

Storing Your Monos Suitcase

Put your Monos suitcase in a dry, cool storage place away from direct sunlight when not in use. To maintain the shape and protect the suitcase from dust, consider using a luggage cover or storing it in its original dust bag.

Monos' Lifetime Warranty

Edit: I've made edits to reflect what reviews have actually said about Mono's lifetime warranty.

Here's what is "covered" by the Monos lifetime warranty:

• Shell mishaps? Cracks or breaks are covered!
• Are you wheeling into trouble? Broken or unusable wheels, handles, or telescoping handles are safe bets!
• Zipper gone rogue? You’re covered!

That said, what isn't included?

You won't get a lifetime warranty covering scratches, dents, dings, scuffs, stains, or color changes. And, everyday wear and tear, especially of the inner fabric, isn’t under its protective wing.

Changes that are merely cosmetic and don’t hamper your luggage’s functionality? Those aren’t covered, either!

On the surface value this sounds great and totally expected from a suitcase brand. However, given the influx of negative customer service experiences of the brand, I'd steer clear. A Reddit user claimed that she spent 3 weeks going in circles on getting replacements for handles, something clearly covered in the warranty.

Which Brand is Better?

Competitor #1: Monos vs. Away

Away is a very similar luggage brand to Monos. Away's suitcases are similar as both feature a polycarbonate shell, TSA locks, silent wheels, and an internal compression system. Like Monos, Away also offers a 100-day trial period for its purchases.

Monos leads in its simple yet classy design and color options. It's also sturdy and more durable in construction.

If you prefer more choices, then Away's collection offers much more. Also, its aluminum models come with an ejectable battery and charger that can charge up to 4 devices. Read our detailed review of Away Luggage!

The choice between the two ultimately depends on your requirements and preferences.

Competitor #2: Monos vs. Samsonite

In the competitive world of travel gear, Monos and Samsonite stand out as titans, each bringing a unique flair to the table. And each has got its own group of fans!

Monos is an up-and-comer known for its sleek, modern aesthetic and commitment to high-quality materials and construction. This brand appeals to the Gen Z crowd or any of the more stylish trendsetters who have a keen eye for design.

On the other hand, Samsonite, a well-established name in the luggage industry, combines reliability with affordability. Samsonite offers a wide range of products to suit various travel needs and budgets, making it a go-to choice for many travelers.

If you ask me, Samsonite wins.

I've rotated around suitcase brands over the years, and I seem to come back to Samsonite frequently. While not all of its products are great, its higher-tiered Black Label suitcases are extremely durable and stylish, and I've almost never had an issue with getting damaged suitcases replaced or repaired.

What Are People Saying About Monos Luggage?

Monos Luggage reviews online have been incredibly positive, with many travelers falling in love with the brand after the purchase.

Many, like me, have hesitated to purchase expensive and relatively unknown luggage like Monos.

Travelers also praised Monos for its sleek, aesthetically pleasing design and lightweight and quality materials.

However, let's address the elephant in the room. Many users pointed out the flaw in Monos' "100-day return policy", citing that the company only covers the 100-day return if they're not actually used for traveling.

Other travelers have pointed out inaccuracies in the quality of several of its pieces of luggage and have been really disappointed in the actual quality of the product.

Several users have complained about the handle being less than sturdy compared to other name brands, while others have mentioned dents forming on luggage easily.

That's a dealbreaker for me. Here's why.

Is Monos Luggage Good?

Personally, I would not be a customer.

Monos brands itself as an expensive premium brand, but reading multiple non-paid, non-influencer reviews shows you that the quality is not on par with some of the best in the world.

I ultimately believe in investing in a quality suitcase. That's why I've ping-ponged between brands like Samsonite Black Label, Delsey, and Travelpro.

I would still use suitcases from proven brands with long track records, like Samsonite and Delsey, as I've had excellent customer service experiences, no-fuss returns, and warranty coverages.

I recognize that mileage varies a lot with suitcases, and I've personally heard horror stories from friends on Samsonite, but given how older brands like Samsonite have decades of experience in the industry, I tend to trust them more over direct-to-consumer brands like Monos.

My Rating: 3.5/5

Pros:

• Sleek and modern design
• Sustainability-focused brand
• Vegan-friendly materials

Cons:

• Highly pricey
• Unresponsive Customer Support
• Hard to claim warranties
• Material scratches easily
• Carry-On hard to stow

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