You’re most likely right here since you are on the lookout for a high-quality suitcase on your travels and need to know: is Monos baggage definitely worth the funding?
I’ve traveled to dozens of nations all around the world, and have examined suitcases from most of the best luggage brands on the market, so consider me after I say I’ve discovered 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 check on my travels. I’ve a number of perception to share on Monos, and I’ve seen firsthand the place their merchandise excel, in addition to when one thing else is perhaps a better option.
Monos presents a spread of polycarbonate hardside suitcases starting from compact carry-ons to massive checked baggage. With a modern, minimalist design and dialed-in options, Monos baggage seems to be improbable, however perform and sturdiness are extra necessary than seems to be if you’re removed from house.
On this Monos baggage overview I’ll provide you with my trustworthy suggestions from my expertise with their merchandise and make it easier to determine which one in all their suitcases is perhaps best for you.
Now, let’s get to the small print.
Monos Baggage First Impressions
At first look, the Monos suitcases I’ve tried appear like fairly commonplace polycarbonate suitcases. The general design aesthetic is nice: trendy, modern, and minimal. I like the colour selections and the streamlined, timeless model.
Monos baggage seems to be actually good and feels each sturdy and light-weight, but it surely was after I began trying on the little particulars that I actually observed a distinction from many 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 a number 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 appreciated them after I obtained my first Monos suitcase, they usually’re nonetheless going robust after years of use. I’m in no way afraid to pull one in all these instances throughout miles of cobblestone in Europe.
One factor I don’t love is the dearth of exterior pockets on most of their suitcases. You possibly can select to improve to the Carry-On Pro to get this characteristic, 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 can assist 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 degree of high quality.
The design ethos of Monos baggage 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 favor.
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 inserting emphasis on sustainability. It’s turn 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. In addition they donate 1% of their income to non-profits working to guard the pure world.
I don’t find out about you, but it surely’s necessary to me to assist manufacturers that wish to make a optimistic affect on the world, not simply make a buck. Monos is an organization I can get behind.
Monos Baggage Assessment
For the primary part of this Monos suitcase overview, I’ll cowl elements which are frequent throughout all the Monos line. Most of their completely different suitcases share related building, supplies, options, and general design.
The variations come right down to dimension and particular options. If you’d like particulars on a selected mannequin, scroll right 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 powerful 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, but it surely’s a fairly distinctive characteristic for baggage. Not solely is it purposeful, but it surely additionally seems to be nice and provides to the general model.
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” instances that characteristic an aluminum body and nook bumpers. As an alternative of zippers, these instances use two latches and a hinged design.
Aesthetic
Each Monos baggage piece shares the identical modern, minimalist styling, and I actually assume this is likely one of the issues that units the Monos model aside. These suitcases look superb!
The polycarbonate onerous shell is has a really clear, streamlined look, and the vegan leather-based materials detailing completes the subtle model.
I like that Monos’ method is to present you every part 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 an ideal collection of colours. It’s straightforward to choose one thing distinctive that matches your private model however doesn’t stick out like a sore thumb.
Have a look by way of their web site, and also you’ll see the clear, trendy model throughout all of the Monos baggage. And belief me, they solely look higher in individual.
Group
Probably the most necessary elements 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 good for preserving every part neat and in place.
On one aspect of the clamshell opening, you will have a big zippered divider that’s good for preserving clothes in place if you open the bag. It additionally works effectively for those who’re packing for 2 folks in a single suitcase as a result of you possibly can divide the entire thing into two separate compartments.
On the opposite aspect, there’s a massive compression pad with straps to maintain every part safe.
There may be additionally one other massive mesh pocket on the divider, a smaller pocket within the center, and even zippered pouches on the compression pad. I like having inside pockets to maintain smaller objects organized, and Monos does an ideal job. That mentioned, I wouldn’t thoughts having even just a few 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 harm past some scuffing on the outer shell.
Monos places all their suitcases by way of rigorous quality testing, from a drop check to a telescopic deal with jerk check. That is probably the most spectacular testing I’ve seen from a baggage model, and it provides a number of peace of thoughts that Monos baggage will stand as much as the abuse of journey.
Worth
Baggage may be costly, particularly for those who’re purchasing for higher-quality suitcases, so it’s necessary to know in case you are getting one of the best worth on your cash.
Monos baggage is unquestionably not the most cost effective on the market. In case you are on a extremely tight funds, you’ll most likely need to take a look at some extra affordable luggage.
On the subject of premium high quality polycarbonate suitcases, although, Monos is cheaper than most different manufacturers on the market. And their high quality and sturdiness is de facto onerous to beat.
If you’d like a hardside suitcase that can final a lifetime, I haven’t been capable of finding a product that gives higher bang on your buck than Monos Baggage. For me, it hits an ideal candy spot between high quality, model, performance, and value.
Guarantee and Returns
Since a high-quality suitcase is a fairly vital funding, it’s value contemplating the guarantee it comes with to know whether or not you’re coated 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 harm to the handles or wheels.
It doesn’t cowl beauty harm 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 principal 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 presents free 100-day returns on any suitcase. In the event you 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 straightforward to make use of. They’re filled with sensible options for group and useability, however don’t go overkill with unnecessarily sophisticated designs.
There undoubtedly are different suitcases on the market that include extra bells and whistles. Generally I like utilizing baggage that has extra pockets and options, however I believe Monos hits a very good steadiness 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 greatest spinner luggage wheels I’ve ever used. They’re {smooth}, quiet, straightforward to maneuver, and really sturdy. Monos designed them from the bottom as much as be one of the best, hardest spinner wheels on the market, and the powerful ball-bearing design and outsized wheels go a good distance towards making these higher than anything on the market.
In the event you want the best possible energy and sturdiness for going over tough surfaces like cobblestones and unpaved paths, I believe 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 top settings. Another producers supply extra adjustability, so I’d want to see that from Monos.
As an alternative 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 modern and minimal when the deal with is stowed as a result of there’s no massive button protruding on high.
Compression Pad and Straps
Most suitcases have some kind of compression system that’s meant to maintain your garments from shifting round. Usually it entails elastic straps that buckle collectively and might cinch down to carry every part in place.
Monos suitcases have an revolutionary design with a big built-in compression pad. When you pack every part in, you possibly can place the compression pad on high and cinch it down with the ballistic nylon straps to maintain every part safe. Bonus? The compression pad additionally has a built-in pocket that’s good for smaller objects.
TSA-Accepted Lock
Each Monos suitcase comes with a built-in TSA-approved mixture lock that permits you to safe your belongings whilst you journey.
It’s not foolproof safety, as a result of thieves can nonetheless rip by way of the zipper, but it surely 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 baggage, and a vegan leather-based baggage tag.
Monos Baggage Assessment 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 instances.
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 if you get house out of your journey so that they take up as little area as attainable.
Traditional Assortment
The Traditional Assortment suitcases are the most well-liked Monos baggage choice. These Monos suitcases are hardshell designs with powerful (but light-weight) polycarbonate shells and zippered closures.
The Monos carry-on baggage within the traditional assortment are particularly good. They’re sturdy, well-designed, and pretty light-weight. If I have been to advocate one in all their fashions to anybody, it might be the Carry-On Pro, which mixes the sturdiness and high quality of their traditional hardshell suitcases with an excellent handy exterior pocket.
| Mannequin | Carry-On | Carry-On Professional | Carry-On Plus | Carry-On Professional Plus | Examine-In Medium | Examine-In Giant |
| Dimensions | 22″ × 14″ × 9″ | 22″ × 14″ × 9″ | 23″ × 15″ × 9.5″ | 23″ × 15″ × 9.5″ | 26.5″ × 18.5″ × 10.5″ | 30″ × 21″ × 11″ |
| Weight | 7.01 lb | 7.8 lb | 7.38 lb | 8.38 lb | 9.59 lb | 10.58 lb |
| Capability | 39.9 L | 36 L | 48 L | 46 L | 70 L | 99.2 L |
Monos Carry-On
The Monos Carry-On is a reasonably easy onerous aspect suitcase that’s sized to suit overhead bins on most flights all over the world, but it surely 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 kind of exterior pocket (like most hardside carry-on baggage). You’ll should improve to the Professional mannequin to get that characteristic.
Monos Carry-On Pro
The Carry-On Pro is the upgraded model of the usual Monos Carry-On. It’s the identical dimension 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 like having the ability to maintain my laptop computer, passport, electronics, and different important objects inside quick access whereas I journey, and most hardside carry-on baggage doesn’t have exterior pockets to make that attainable.
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 preserving small objects organized.
It’s tremendous handy to have the ability to get to smaller objects that you just use so much with no need to open and dig by way of the entire suitcase.
Monos Carry-On Plus
The Monos Carry-On Plus is an identical 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 chances are you’ll must examine it. It’s undoubtedly value checking carry-on size restrictions for various airways.
Monos Carry-On Pro Plus
As you might have guessed from the title, the Monos Carry-On Pro Plus combines the bigger dimension 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 Examine-In Medium bag, simply with extra space. I like this case for prolonged journeys. It has a ton of area inside!
In the event you’re packing for a household, or simply want a number 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 undoubtedly make the hybrid baggage stronger, I’ve by no means as soon as had a crack or dent in a traditional Monos bag, so I don’t know if the improved sturdiness is de facto that essential.
One other distinction is the closure. The place the traditional 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 wreck than zippers, which might snag, I’ve discovered it to be harder 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 dearer than the traditional ones, which solidifies my opinion that they aren’t actually value it.
One other factor to concentrate on is that there’s no Carry-On Professional suitcase within the hybrid assortment. In my thoughts, an exterior pocket is sort of a necessity, and for the reason that Traditional Carry-On Professional is cheaper than the Hybrid Carry-On, I don’t see a lot cause to go along with the hybrid.
Monos Baggage Specs:
| Hybrid Carry-On | Hybrid Carry-On Plus | Hybrid Examine-In Medium | Hybrid Examine-In Giant | Hybrid Trunk | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 22″ × 14″ × 9″ | 23″ × 15″ × 9.5″ | 26.5″ × 18.5″ × 10.5″ | 30″ × 21″ × 11″ | 29.9” x 15.7” x 14.3” |
| Weight | 8.81 lb | 9.25 lb | 11 lb | 13 lb | 13.2 lb |
| Capability | 36 L | 45 L | 70 L | 99.2 L | 89 L |
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, but it surely’s additionally nearly two kilos heavier. It additionally has a barely smaller storage capability (I’m not fairly positive why that’s, but it surely will need to have one thing to do with the beefier building).
I actually assume the Monos Carry-On Professional is a a lot better alternative on your cash.
Hybrid Carry-On Plus
Similar to it sounds, the Monos Hybrid Carry-On Plus is only a bigger model of the smaller Hybrid Carry-On. It does have a number of area for a carry-on, but it surely has much less room than the Traditional Carry-On Plus.
Hybrid Check-In Medium
Whenever you get to the check-in baggage, I believe the Hybrid instances begin to make just a little extra sense. The Hybrid Monos Check-In Medium continues to be heavier and dearer than the traditional model, however the beefed-up building can add some peace of thoughts that your belongings can be shielded from the tough use of airline baggage handlers.
Nonetheless, the traditional checked baggage are lots robust, and I’ve by no means had a problem with one breaking. I wouldn’t get the hybrid until you actually like the additional safety of the aluminum body and locking latches (and are keen 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 massive, heavy, and robust.
Hybrid Trunk
The Monos Hybrid Trunk is de facto the one hybrid Monos Baggage I personally would purchase and use. The opposite hybrid suitcases are dearer, heavier, and more durable to make use of than their traditional counterparts, however for those who particularly need trunk baggage, this can be a improbable alternative.
Trunk baggage is longer and deeper than a normal suitcase, which makes it straightforward to pack cumbersome objects or for longer journeys. You’ll pay a premium value, but it surely’s nice for those who want an ultra-protective massive trunk-style case.
Monos Equipment
Monos doesn’t simply make baggage; additionally they supply a big selection of equipment that complement their suitcases completely. Listed below are just a few of my high picks to get you absolutely outfitted for journey.
Monos Compressible Packing Cubes
It’s straightforward for the primary compartment of your suitcase to turn into a disorganized, jumbled mess. These packing cubes are improbable for organizing all of your necessities in your bag. You can too use one to maintain soiled garments separate from every part else.
Constructed of a light-weight material, these packing cubes have a mesh entrance panel that permits you to simply see what’s inside.
They arrive in an array of sizes to suit every part from socks to shirts. You should purchase 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 discount.
If you wish to maintain your suitcase trying nearly as good because the day you bought it, this luggage cover is completely designed to suit your suitcase and defend it from the abuse of journey.
Whereas they do promote a carry-on dimension, I personally would solely get a baggage cowl for a checked bag. I don’t assume it’s essential for a carry-on that you just’ll simply be placing within the overhead bin, and I want 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 every part I wanted, but it surely additionally doesn’t maintain issues very organized.
The Monos Toiletry Case is easy and streamlined, but it surely presents nice inside separation to maintain every part neat. It is available in a small or massive dimension, so you may get one that matches your wants.
Monos Metro Sling
I usually prefer to journey with a carry-on suitcase and a few kind of smaller bag that I can stick with it my physique for smaller valuables like my cellphone, passport, and pockets.
The Monos Metro Sling matches the invoice completely. It’s compact, easy, and straightforward to make use of. I 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 Options
Whereas Monos suitcases are nice, it’s undoubtedly value scoping out the competitors to see what is de facto one of the best baggage for you.
There are just a few 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 a number 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 likely one of the hottest baggage manufacturers on the market proper now. Their advertising is de facto good, they usually get a number of consideration on social media. If you wish to be taught extra about this model, you possibly can learn our full Away luggage review.
Away suitcases are lovely and well-built, however I believe Monos has a number of benefits.
Away suitcases usually tend to crack, whereas I’ve by no means damaged my Monos instances after years of use. They each use an analogous polycarbonate onerous shell, however one thing about Monos’ design makes them stronger.
Whereas each manufacturers supply nice group with their instances, I believe 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 dearer than Monos throughout their product line. You possibly can anticipate to spend about $20 additional for an equal mannequin from Away.
One factor Away presents that you just don’t get from Monos is expandable baggage. They’ve a line of “flex” suitcases with a wrap-around zipper that permits you to add about two inches of depth. You do should pay much more for that characteristic 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 1000’s of opinions for different merchandise to find out about the commonest baggage complaints. They then got down to make baggage that solves these issues.
There are a number 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 like about July is that almost all of their suitcases have full aluminum nook bumpers for additional energy. Once more, I’ve by no means had my Monos instances dent or crack, however these aluminum corners from July actually really feel bomber.
Each manufacturers are fairly related by way of value 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.
If you’d like 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 believe it comes down primarily to aesthetics, as there are some particular model 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 a number of similarities to Monos suitcases.
Worth goes to be the fast 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 powerful and sturdy to me. It’s onerous to compete with Monos on that entrance.
In the event you’re trying to avoid wasting cash, I believe Beis delivers a number of bang on your buck with their high-value suitcases. Monos has higher general high quality, design, and efficiency.
Beis can be undoubtedly marketed extra towards girls, so for those who’re on the lookout for the best men’s luggage, you is perhaps extra drawn to Monos.
Monos Baggage FAQs
Is a Monos suitcase value it?
Monos suitcases are a few of the greatest within the enterprise, and are undoubtedly definitely worth the funding.
Is Monos a good firm?
Monos is a extremely respected baggage model that stands behind their merchandise with a strong guarantee.
What’s the greatest Monos baggage various?
July is a good various to Monos. They’ve modern, sturdy suitcases at an analogous value.
Is Away higher than Monos?
Is Monos baggage made in USA?
Monos baggage is manufactured in China.
