Monos Baggage Evaluation: Hype or Value It?

You’re most likely right here since you are on the lookout for a high-quality suitcase in your travels and wish to know: is Monos baggage definitely worth the funding?

I’ve traveled to dozens of nations everywhere in the world, and have examined suitcases from most of the best luggage brands on the market, so consider me once I say I’ve realized a factor or two about baggage.

I personal 4 completely different Monos suitcases in several sizes and fashions, and I’ve put them to the take a look at on my travels. I’ve plenty of perception to share on Monos, and I’ve seen firsthand the place their merchandise excel, in addition to when one thing else could be a better option.

Monos gives a spread of polycarbonate hardside suitcases starting from compact carry-ons to giant checked luggage. With a smooth, minimalist design and dialed-in options, Monos baggage seems to be incredible, however perform and sturdiness are extra essential than seems to be while you’re removed from house.

On this Monos baggage evaluate I’ll provide you with my sincere suggestions from my expertise with their merchandise and show you how to resolve which one among their suitcases could be best for you.

Now, let’s get to the main points.

Monos Baggage First Impressions

At first look, the Monos suitcases I’ve tried appear to be fairly commonplace polycarbonate suitcases. The general design aesthetic is nice: fashionable, smooth, and minimal. I really like the colour selections and the streamlined, timeless fashion.

Monos baggage seems to be actually good and feels each sturdy and light-weight, nevertheless it was once I began trying on the little particulars that I actually seen a distinction from a lot of the different suitcases I’ve tried.

The match and end of those merchandise is truthfully spectacular. They really feel dialed in and effectively put collectively. It’s apparent that they paid plenty of consideration to particulars each within the design and within the manufacturing.

For instance, the telescopic deal with feels very sturdy in comparison with most different baggage I’ve used. I additionally love that they put the button to regulate it on the underside in order that your fingers naturally push it as you pull the deal with up. It slides easily and locks into place with a satisfying click on.

The wheels are additionally impressively smooth-rolling and quiet. I preferred them once I received my first Monos suitcase, they usually’re nonetheless going sturdy after years of use. I’m under no circumstances afraid to pull one among these circumstances throughout miles of cobblestone in Europe.

One factor I don’t love is the shortage of exterior pockets on most of their suitcases. You possibly can select to improve to the Carry-On Pro to get this function, however I want it have been commonplace and never one thing you must pay additional for. Nonetheless, that’s fairly commonplace for hardside suitcases, so it isn’t a deal-breaker.

Who’s Monos?

Monos is a Canadian baggage model that’s all about promoting high-quality merchandise meant that will help you focus extra on the journey expertise. Monos baggage is streamlined, thoughtfully designed, and rigorously examined.

They’re devoted to constructing luxury-level suitcases and promoting them at attainable costs for everybody. Their direct-to-consumer enterprise mannequin lets them supply high-end merchandise at decrease costs than you usually see for a similar stage of high quality.

The design ethos of Monos luggage is all about simplicity and performance. A Monos suitcase most likely received’t stand out in a crowded airport, however the minimalist, timeless design won’t ever exit of fashion.

Their dedication to high quality is spectacular. Monos suitcases undergo severe testing to make sure the wheels, shell, and elements are made to final.

I additionally love that Monos is putting emphasis on sustainability. It’s change into frequent for manufacturers to speak about sustainability, however Monos appears to be taking it severely. They’re the primary baggage model to be licensed local weather impartial, with internet zero carbon emissions. Additionally they donate 1% of their income to non-profits working to guard the pure world.

I don’t find out about you, nevertheless it’s essential to me to assist manufacturers that need to make a constructive influence on the world, not simply make a buck. Monos is an organization I can get behind.

Monos Baggage Evaluation

For the primary part of this Monos suitcase evaluate, I’ll cowl features which are frequent throughout all the Monos line. Most of their completely different suitcases share comparable building, supplies, options, and total design.

The variations come all the way down to measurement and particular options. In order for you particulars on a selected mannequin, scroll all the way down to the place I break down every suitcase of their lineup.

Let’s dive proper in.

Supplies

Each Monos suitcase begins with an aerospace-grade polycarbonate shell. That is the gold-standard materials for hardside luggage as a result of it’s each robust and light-weight.

The suitcases shut with a YKK reverse-coil zipper with a water-proof outer coating. Waterproof zippers are frequent in rain jackets and mountain climbing backpacks, nevertheless it’s a reasonably distinctive function for baggage. Not solely is it purposeful, nevertheless it additionally seems to be nice and provides to the general fashion.

I do want the zippers have been a bit bigger although. I’ve by no means had severe issues with them breaking, however they do snag sometimes, and a bigger zipper would give me a bit extra confidence.

Monos additionally has a group of “hybrid” circumstances that function an aluminum body and nook bumpers. As a substitute of zippers, these circumstances use two latches and a hinged design.

Aesthetic

Each Monos baggage piece shares the identical smooth, minimalist styling, and I actually assume this is among the issues that units the Monos model aside. These suitcases look wonderful!

The polycarbonate onerous shell is has a really clear, streamlined look, and the vegan leather-based materials detailing completes the delicate fashion.

I really like that Monos’ method is to present you all the things you want and nothing you don’t. This actually emphasizes that minimalist look. These suitcases are filled with considerate particulars, from a TSA lock to a number of seize handles to the vegan leather-based baggage tag, however there’s nothing pointless to litter the aesthetic.

Each Monos suitcase additionally is available in a terrific choice of colours. It’s simple to choose one thing distinctive that matches your private fashion however doesn’t stick out like a sore thumb.

Have a look by means of their web site, and also you’ll see the clear, fashionable fashion throughout all of the Monos luggage. And belief me, they solely look higher in particular person.

Group

One of the crucial essential features of any suitcase is its group system. I hate it when the within of my suitcase simply turns right into a jumbled mess throughout a visit, and sensible group options can actually assist tame the chaos, particularly on longer journeys.

The inside group of Monos baggage is extremely well-thought-out. It’s excellent for retaining all the things neat and in place.

On one facet of the clamshell opening, you have got a big zippered divider that’s excellent for retaining clothes in place while you open the bag. It additionally works effectively when you’re packing for 2 folks in a single suitcase as a result of you’ll be able to divide the entire thing into two separate compartments.

On the opposite facet, there’s a giant compression pad with straps to maintain all the things safe.

There may be additionally one other giant mesh pocket on the divider, a smaller pocket within the center, and even zippered pouches on the compression pad. I really like having inside pockets to maintain smaller gadgets organized, and Monos does a terrific job. That mentioned, I wouldn’t thoughts having even a couple of extra small zippered pockets.

Sturdiness

In comparison with most different manufacturers, the sturdiness you get from a Monos suitcase is excellent. In all my years of utilizing Monos baggage, I’ve by no means but had one crack or undergo injury past some scuffing on the outer shell.

Monos places all their suitcases by means of rigorous quality testing, from a drop take a look at to a telescopic deal with jerk take a look at. That is essentially the most spectacular testing I’ve seen from a baggage model, and it offers plenty of peace of thoughts that Monos baggage will stand as much as the abuse of journey.

Worth

Baggage might be costly, particularly when you’re searching for higher-quality suitcases, so it’s essential to know in case you are getting the perfect worth in your cash.

Monos baggage is unquestionably not the most cost effective on the market. If you’re on a very tight price range, you’ll most likely wish to take a look at some extra affordable luggage.

With regards to premium high quality polycarbonate suitcases, although, Monos is cheaper than most different manufacturers on the market. And their high quality and sturdiness is basically onerous to beat.

In order for you a hardside suitcase that may final a lifetime, I haven’t been capable of finding a product that gives higher bang in your buck than Monos Baggage. For me, it hits a terrific candy spot between high quality, fashion, performance, and worth.

Guarantee and Returns

Since a high-quality suitcase is a reasonably important funding, it’s price contemplating the guarantee it comes with to know whether or not you’re lined whether it is ever broken.

All Monos baggage is backed by a lifetime guarantee, whether or not you buy immediately from them or from a third-party retailer. The guarantee covers any cracks within the shell, damaged zippers, or purposeful injury to the handles or wheels.

It doesn’t cowl beauty injury or regular put on and tear that doesn’t have an effect on the performance. In my thoughts, that’s not a giant deal, although. My fundamental concern is that my suitcase at all times works, and it’s superior that they are going to restore it if it breaks.

Along with the restricted lifetime guarantee, Monos additionally gives free 100-day returns on any suitcase. For those who don’t prefer it, ship it again. No questions requested.

Monos Baggage Options

Monos is designed with simplicity in thoughts, and their suitcases are designed to be streamlined and simple to make use of. They’re filled with sensible options for group and useability, however don’t go overkill with unnecessarily difficult designs.

There positively are different suitcases on the market that include extra bells and whistles. Typically I like utilizing baggage that has extra pockets and options, however I feel Monos hits stability of providing you with precisely what you want and nothing additional.

360-Diploma Spinner Wheels

The Monos silent run wheels are a few of the finest spinner luggage wheels I’ve ever used. They’re {smooth}, quiet, simple to maneuver, and really sturdy. Monos designed them from the bottom as much as be the perfect, hardest spinner wheels on the market, and the robust ball-bearing design and outsized wheels go a good distance towards making these higher than anything on the market.

For those who want the very best energy and sturdiness for going over tough surfaces like cobblestones and unpaved paths, I feel you’ll be higher off with two-wheeled rolling baggage. So far as spinner wheels go, although, these are nice.

Telescopic Deal with

The adjustable telescopic deal with on all Monos baggage is sturdy and well-built, with 4 peak settings. Another producers supply extra adjustability, so I’d choose to see that from Monos.

As a substitute of forged zinc tubes like most manufacturers use, Monos builds their handles from extruded aerospace-grade aluminum. This makes them stronger, lighter, and extra exact.

I additionally love that the deal with launch button is on the underside. It’s a small element, however it’s extra ergonomic and intuitive to make use of. This additionally makes the suitcase look extra smooth and minimal when the deal with is stowed as a result of there’s no huge button protruding on prime.

Compression Pad and Straps

Most suitcases have some type of compression system that’s meant to maintain your garments from shifting round. Sometimes it includes elastic straps that buckle collectively and may cinch down to carry all the things in place.

Monos suitcases have an modern design with a big built-in compression pad. When you pack all the things in, you’ll be able to place the compression pad on prime and cinch it down with the ballistic nylon straps to maintain all the things safe. Bonus? The compression pad additionally has a built-in pocket that’s excellent for smaller gadgets.

TSA-Permitted Lock

Each Monos suitcase comes with a built-in TSA-approved mixture lock that allows you to safe your belongings whilst you journey.

It’s not foolproof safety, as a result of thieves can nonetheless rip by means of the zipper, nevertheless it does add some deterrence for would-be thieves and peace of thoughts for you.

Extras

All Monos suitcases additionally include an anti-microbial laundry bag, two shoe luggage, and a vegan leather-based baggage tag.

Monos Baggage Evaluation by Mannequin

The Monos baggage lineup is split into two collections: Traditional and Hybrid. Inside every assortment, there’s a full vary of sizes to select from, from compact carry-ons to huge checked circumstances.

The completely different suitcase sizes within the Monos lineup are designed to nest completely inside one another. That is nice for packing your baggage away while you get house out of your journey in order that they take up as little area as potential. 

Traditional Assortment

The Traditional Assortment suitcases are the preferred Monos baggage possibility. These Monos suitcases are hardshell designs with robust (but light-weight) polycarbonate shells and zippered closures.

The Monos carry-on baggage within the basic assortment are particularly good. They’re sturdy, well-designed, and pretty light-weight. If I have been to suggest one among their fashions to anybody, it might be the Carry-On Pro, which mixes the sturdiness and high quality of their basic hardshell suitcases with a brilliant handy exterior pocket.

Monos Carry-On

The Monos Carry-On is a reasonably easy onerous facet suitcase that’s sized to suit overhead bins on most flights world wide, nevertheless it has the sturdy building and considerate particulars that set Monos aside from different baggage manufacturers.

This Monos carry-on bag is light-weight, easy, and simply feels well-designed and well-built.

One factor to notice is that it doesn’t have any type of exterior pocket (like most hardside carry-on baggage). You’ll must improve to the Professional mannequin to get that function.

Monos Carry-On Pro

The Carry-On Pro is the upgraded model of the usual Monos Carry-On. It’s the identical measurement with the identical light-weight shell, smooth-rolling wheels, and inside group.

The distinction is that the Carry-On Professional has a zippered exterior pocket. For me, this exterior pocket is a game-changer. I really like with the ability to preserve my laptop computer, passport, electronics, and different important gadgets inside quick access whereas I journey, and most hardside carry-on baggage doesn’t have exterior pockets to make that potential.

The entrance pocket on the Monos Professional zips open to present you quick access to a padded laptop computer sleeve and several other inside pockets for retaining small gadgets organized.

It’s tremendous handy to have the ability to get to smaller gadgets that you just use quite a bit with no need to open and dig by means of the entire suitcase.

Monos Carry-On Plus

The Monos Carry-On Plus is equivalent to the traditional carry-on, just a bit larger. This larger carry-on is ideal for anybody who desires extra room than you get with a normal carry-on.

It’s designed to slot in the overhead bins for many flights inside the US, however on some smaller planes it’s possible you’ll must examine it. It’s positively price checking carry-on size restrictions for various airways.

Monos Carry-On Pro Plus

As you will have guessed from the title, the Monos Carry-On Pro Plus combines the bigger measurement of the Carry-On Plus and the exterior pocket from the Carry-On Professional.

Monos Check-In Medium

The Monos Check-In Medium is Monos’ signature checked bag. It’s roomy sufficient for longer journeys with out being overly cumbersome and cumbersome.

Monos Check-In Large

The Monos Check-In Large has the identical design because the Verify-In Medium bag, simply with extra space. I really like this case for prolonged journeys. It has a ton of area inside!

For those who’re packing for a household, or simply want plenty of room in your journey, this massive suitcase is the one for you.

Hybrid Assortment

The Monos Hybrid Assortment combines the signature polycarbonate hardshell with a tricky aluminum body and nook bumpers. This makes these suitcases more durable and extra sturdy, although they’re additionally a bit heavier.

Whereas the aluminum nook bumpers positively make the hybrid baggage stronger, I’ve by no means as soon as had a crack or dent in a basic Monos bag, so I don’t know if the improved sturdiness is basically that obligatory.

One other distinction is the closure. The place the basic suitcases use a water-proof zipper, the hybrid Monos baggage has a hinged design, with two beefy aluminum clasps that may be locked for additional safety.

This design might be extra resistant to break than zippers, which might snag, I’ve discovered it to be tougher to make use of. When you unlatch the clasps, it’s onerous to get your fingers between the 2 sides of the lid to tug it open.

The hybrid suitcases are additionally considerably costlier than the basic ones, which solidifies my opinion that they aren’t actually price it.

One other factor to pay attention to is that there’s no Carry-On Professional suitcase within the hybrid assortment. In my thoughts, an exterior pocket is nearly a necessity, and for the reason that Traditional Carry-On Professional is cheaper than the Hybrid Carry-On, I don’t see a lot purpose to go together with the hybrid.

Hybrid Carry-On

The Monos Hybrid Carry-On has the very same exterior dimensions because the hybrid carry-on. It has the identical smooth-rolling spinner wheels, sturdy deal with, and inside group.

The aluminum body and nook bumpers make it stronger, nevertheless it’s additionally virtually two kilos heavier. It additionally has a barely smaller storage capability (I’m not fairly positive why that’s, nevertheless it will need to have one thing to do with the beefier building).

I actually assume the Monos Carry-On Professional is a significantly better alternative in your cash.

Hybrid Carry-On Plus

Identical to it sounds, the Monos Hybrid Carry-On Plus is only a bigger model of the smaller Hybrid Carry-On. It does have plenty of area for a carry-on, nevertheless it has much less room than the Traditional Carry-On Plus.

Hybrid Check-In Medium

If you get to the check-in luggage, I feel the Hybrid circumstances begin to make slightly extra sense. The Hybrid Monos Check-In Medium remains to be heavier and costlier than the basic model, however the beefed-up building can add some peace of thoughts that your belongings might be shielded from the tough use of airline baggage handlers.

Nonetheless, the basic checked luggage are lots sturdy, and I’ve by no means had a difficulty with one breaking. I wouldn’t get the hybrid except you actually like the additional safety of the aluminum body and locking latches (and are prepared to pay extra for it).

Hybrid Check-In Large

No surprises right here! The Monos Hybrid Check-In Large is simply the larger model of their hybrid checked suitcase. It’s huge, heavy, and powerful.

Hybrid Trunk

The Monos Hybrid Trunk is basically the one hybrid Monos Baggage I personally would purchase and use. The opposite hybrid suitcases are costlier, heavier, and more durable to make use of than their basic counterparts, however when you particularly need trunk baggage, it is a incredible alternative.

Trunk baggage is longer and deeper than a normal suitcase, which makes it simple to pack cumbersome gadgets or for longer journeys. You’ll pay a premium worth, nevertheless it’s nice when you want an ultra-protective huge trunk-style case.

Monos Equipment

Monos doesn’t simply make baggage; additionally they supply a wide selection of equipment that complement their suitcases completely. Listed below are a couple of of my prime picks to get you totally outfitted for journey.

Monos Compressible Packing Cubes

It’s simple for the principle compartment of your suitcase to change into a disorganized, jumbled mess. These packing cubes are incredible for organizing all of your necessities in your bag. You can even use one to maintain soiled garments separate from all the things else.

Constructed of a light-weight cloth, these packing cubes have a mesh entrance panel that allows you to simply see what’s inside.

They arrive in an array of sizes to suit all the things from socks to shirts. You should buy both a four-pack or a six-pack.

Monos Luggage Cover

Everyone knows that checked baggage isn’t essentially handled with care, and scuffs, scratches, and filth are a part of the cut price.

If you wish to preserve your suitcase trying nearly as good because the day you bought it, this luggage cover is completely designed to suit your suitcase and shield it from the abuse of journey.

Whereas they do promote a carry-on measurement, I personally would solely get a baggage cowl for a checked bag. I don’t assume it’s obligatory for a carry-on that you just’ll simply be placing within the overhead bin, and I choose to have the ability to entry my belongings simply.

Monos Toiletry Case

Everybody wants a toiletry bag whereas touring. For some time, I’ve used an ultra-simple zippered pouch. It labored and held all the things I wanted, nevertheless it additionally doesn’t preserve issues very organized.

The Monos Toiletry Case is easy and streamlined, nevertheless it gives nice inside separation to maintain all the things neat. It is available in a small or giant measurement, so you may get one that matches your wants.

Monos Metro Sling

I usually wish to journey with a carry-on suitcase and a few type of smaller bag that I can stick with it my physique for smaller valuables like my telephone, passport, and pockets.

The Monos Metro Sling suits the invoice completely. It’s compact, easy, and simple to make use of. I really like that it has a hidden again pocket throughout the size of all the bag to maintain valuables safe however nonetheless simply accessible.

Monos Baggage Alternate options

Whereas Monos suitcases are nice, it’s positively price scoping out the competitors to see what is basically the perfect baggage for you.

There are a couple of different luxurious baggage manufacturers that always come up in conversations about Monos. These embody Away, July, and Beis. I’ve used merchandise from all these manufacturers, and have plenty of perception into the similarities and variations between them.

Here’s a fast comparability between Monos and every of those alternate options.

Monos vs. Away

Away is among the hottest baggage manufacturers on the market proper now. Their advertising is basically good, they usually get plenty of consideration on social media. If you wish to study extra about this model, you’ll be able to learn our full Away luggage review.

Away suitcases are lovely and well-built, however I feel Monos has plenty of benefits.

Away suitcases usually tend to crack, whereas I’ve by no means damaged my Monos circumstances after years of use. They each use the same polycarbonate onerous shell, however one thing about Monos’ design makes them stronger.

Whereas each manufacturers supply nice group with their circumstances, I feel Monos has an edge right here. Particularly with their Carry-On Professional, which has a ton of organizing dividers within the entrance pocket.

Away can be only a bit costlier than Monos throughout their product line. You possibly can anticipate to spend about $20 additional for an equal mannequin from Away.

One factor Away gives that you just don’t get from Monos is expandable baggage. They’ve a line of “flex” suitcases with a wrap-around zipper that allows you to add about two inches of depth. You do must pay much more for that function although.

Learn our full comparability of Monos vs Away luggage.

Monos vs July

July is an Australian-based producer that began their suitcase design course of by studying hundreds of critiques for different merchandise to find out about the commonest baggage complaints. They then got down to make baggage that solves these issues.

There are plenty of similarities between Monos and July. Each make suitcases with a tricky polycarbonate shell. Each have a variety of sizes and baggage with or with out exterior pockets. Each have superior inside group and storage.

One factor I really like about July is that the majority of their suitcases have full aluminum nook bumpers for additional energy. Once more, I’ve by no means had my Monos circumstances dent or crack, however these aluminum corners from July actually really feel bomber.

Each manufacturers are fairly comparable when it comes to worth level. Whereas the July Carry-on is a little more costly than the Monos Carry-On, July’s Carry-On Important (which doesn’t have the aluminum nook bumpers) competes head-to-head with Monos.

In order for you a carry-on with an exterior pocket, the Monos Carry-On Professional is the winner in my ebook with it’s tremendous purposeful design.

Finally, these manufacturers have so many similarities, that I feel it comes down primarily to aesthetics, as there are some particular fashion variations.

Learn our full comparability of July vs Monos luggage.

Monos vs Beis

Beis is a boutique baggage firm that sells high-quality polycarbonate baggage that has plenty of similarities to Monos suitcases.

Worth goes to be the rapid distinction right here. Beis suitcases are at all times a bit lower than comparable Monos merchandise, however I do assume there’s a trade-off in performance, high quality, and elegance.

Personally, I simply don’t actually just like the look of Beis baggage as a lot as Monos’ clear, minimal design, so I’ll throw that on the market.

Beis luggage additionally simply doesn’t really feel fairly as robust and sturdy to me. It’s onerous to compete with Monos on that entrance.

For those who’re trying to avoid wasting cash, I feel Beis delivers plenty of bang in your buck with their high-value suitcases. Monos has higher total high quality, design, and efficiency.

Beis can be positively marketed extra towards ladies, so when you’re on the lookout for the best men’s luggage, you could be extra drawn to Monos.

Monos Baggage FAQs