Away vs Tumi: Which Is The Better Luggage Brand?
If you’re looking to buy a new piece of luggage, the choice can be overwhelming. You want something stylish, but also functional and durable. Away and Tumi are two of the biggest names in luggage today, and each offers their own unique benefits. In this guide, we’ll be looking at a comparison of Away vs Tumi luggage, exploring their features, advantages, and disadvantages. This way, you can make an informed decision and choose the luggage that best suits your needs.
Best Away Luggage
- The Away Carry-On
- The Away Bigger Carry-On
- The Away Large
Best Tumi Luggage
- Tumi Alpha 3 International Expandable 4 Wheeled Carry-On
- Tumi Latitude Extended Trip Packing Case
- Tumi V4 International Expandable 4 Wheeled Carry-On
Away Luggage Company History
Away is a relatively new company, having been founded in 2015 by two former Warby Parker executives, Steph Korey and Jen Rubio. The brand was born out of their shared frustration with the lack of high-quality, affordable luggage options on the market. With this in mind, they set out to create a brand that would offer stylish and functional luggage at an accessible price point.
Since its launch, Away has become a wildly popular brand, with its luggage appearing in airports and on Instagram feeds all over the world. The brand’s success can be attributed to a few key factors, including its sleek design, durable construction, and smart features like built-in USB ports and laundry bags.
One thing that sets Away apart from many other luggage brands is its commitment to transparency and sustainability. The company has made a point of sharing details about its manufacturing process and supply chain, and it has also launched a program to encourage customers to donate their old luggage to those in need. Overall, Away has quickly established itself as a major player in the luggage market, thanks to its stylish and practical products, as well as its focus on ethical and sustainable business practices.
Tumi Luggage Company History
Tumi is a high-end luggage brand that has been providing customers with high-quality, durable, and stylish bags since 1975. It all began when founder Charlie Clifford traveled to South America and noticed the lack of quality luggage available. He decided to create a brand that focused on using the best materials and incorporating functional features to make travel easier.
Tumi has become known for their signature ballistic nylon material that is both strong and lightweight. They have also incorporated various technology features such as their Tumi Tracer program, which helps reunite owners with their lost or stolen bags. Over the years, Tumi has expanded their product line to include not only luggage but also backpacks, handbags, and other travel accessories. In 2016, Tumi was acquired by luxury brand Samsonite but has maintained its focus on providing premium quality luggage and accessories.
Tumi has become a popular choice for business travelers and those looking for sophisticated and stylish luggage options. While their products may come at a higher price point, the brand’s commitment to quality and functionality make them a worthwhile investment for frequent travelers.
Key Differences Between Away And Tumi
Size And Material
When it comes to size and material, both Away and Tumi offer a range of options to suit different travel needs. Away offers three main sizes: The Carry-On, The Bigger Carry-On, and The Large. The Carry-On is designed to fit most airline size restrictions and is perfect for short trips. The Bigger Carry-On offers slightly more space, making it suitable for longer trips or those who tend to overpack. The Large is the largest option and provides ample room for extended vacations or for those who prefer to pack more.
In terms of material, Away uses a lightweight and durable polycarbonate shell for all their luggage. This material is known for its strength and resistance to cracking or breaking, ensuring that your belongings are protected throughout your journey. It also gives the luggage a sleek and modern appearance.
On the other hand, Tumi offers a variety of sizes and styles to cater to different travel needs as well. Their Alpha 3 International Expandable 4 Wheeled Carry-On is designed for international travel, with expandable compartments to maximize storage space. The Latitude Extended Trip Packing Case is larger and offers even more room for those longer trips. Tumi V4 International Expandable 4 Wheeled Carry-On is a compact yet versatile option for those who prefer a smaller carry-on size.
When it comes to material, Tumi uses their signature ballistic nylon fabric, known for its exceptional durability and resistance to wear and tear. This material not only provides a long-lasting exterior but also gives the luggage a sophisticated and stylish look.
Overall, both Away and Tumi offer a range of sizes and use high-quality materials that ensure durability and protection for your belongings. The choice ultimately depends on your personal preferences and travel needs.
Storage Components
When it comes to luggage, storage is key. Both Away and Tumi luggage offer ample storage options, but the differences lie in the details. Away luggage features a soft lining and compression system to maximize space. The carry-on bags have an interior compartment for shoes, and all of the bags come with a removable laundry bag for dirty clothes. Additionally, the suitcases come with a built-in lock and removable battery for charging devices.
On the other hand, Tumi luggage is known for its innovative storage features. The suitcases come with multiple pockets and compartments for organized packing, including a separate compartment for shoes and a hanger bracket for hanging clothes. Tumi’s luggage also has a compression system and an expansion option for added space. Plus, the brand offers a range of customizable accessories to enhance organization, such as packing cubes and garment folders.
Overall, both brands offer high-quality storage components that cater to different needs. Away’s focus on simplicity and efficiency appeals to those who value a minimalist approach to packing, while Tumi’s emphasis on organization and customization is perfect for the meticulous traveler who wants everything in its place.
Overall Style
When it comes to overall style, both Away and Tumi have their unique aesthetic appeal. Away luggage comes in a range of colors, from bold hues to classic neutrals, making it perfect for the fashion-conscious traveler. It has a modern minimalist design that makes it stand out from other luggage brands. On the other hand, Tumi luggage has a more sophisticated and luxurious style, perfect for the high-end traveler. It is available in different textures and finishes, like leather or ballistic nylon, which makes it suitable for any occasion.
Another difference in style is the hardware used on each brand. Away uses zippers and plastic hardware, which keeps the cost down and makes it more affordable. Tumi, on the other hand, uses high-quality hardware like metal zippers and handles, which gives it a more expensive and refined feel.
In terms of personalization, both brands offer customization options. Away allows you to add monogramming, while Tumi offers the option to add a luggage tag or custom leather patch. Overall, it boils down to personal preference when it comes to style. If you prefer a more modern and affordable option, Away is the perfect fit. However, if you want a more sophisticated and luxurious look, Tumi is the ideal choice.
Maneuverability
One of the most important aspects to consider when choosing luggage is how easily you can maneuver it around. Both Away and Tumi have some distinct differences in this category. Away luggage is designed with 360-degree spinner wheels, allowing you to easily roll it in any direction. Their wheels are also made from high-quality materials and are replaceable if needed. This ensures that your luggage can withstand any terrain and can be used for years to come.
On the other hand, Tumi luggage has two wheels instead of four. While this may seem like a disadvantage, Tumi’s patented “Omega Closure System” makes it easy to move the luggage with a simple push or pull. This unique feature also makes Tumi luggage ideal for uneven surfaces like cobblestone or gravel.
Ultimately, the decision between Away and Tumi will depend on personal preference. If you prefer four-wheel maneuverability and don’t mind the extra weight, then Away is the way to go. If you value durability and stability on all terrains, then Tumi’s two-wheel system might be your best bet.
Value For The Money
When it comes to choosing luggage, many travelers often weigh the benefits against the cost. The value for money is an important consideration, especially for those who frequently travel and need a durable and reliable suitcase. Away luggage is well-known for its affordable pricing and quality features. Their prices start from around $195 for the Carry-On, which comes with a built-in battery pack to keep your devices charged on the go. Away luggage is made from high-quality materials, including polycarbonate, aluminum, and vegan leather, which makes them long-lasting.
On the other hand, Tumi luggage is known for its high-end features and luxury feel. However, Tumi’s premium pricing may not be suitable for everyone’s budget. Their luggage can cost up to $1,500, depending on the style and size. The extra money spent on Tumi luggage is often justified with added features such as multiple pockets and compartments, TSA-approved locks, and high-quality materials such as ballistic nylon and Italian leather.
Ultimately, it depends on the traveler’s preferences and budget when choosing between Away and Tumi luggage. If you prioritize affordability, then Away is an excellent choice. If you’re looking for luxury and are willing to pay for it, then Tumi may be more suitable. In either case, both brands offer quality luggage options for different needs and preferences.
Warranty
One important aspect to consider when choosing luggage is the warranty offered by the brand. In this regard, Tumi has the advantage over Away, as they offer a more comprehensive warranty program. Tumi offers a limited five-year warranty, which covers defects in materials and workmanship, as well as damage caused by airline handling. Tumi will repair or replace the item, free of charge, and even cover the cost of shipping. Additionally, Tumi offers a repair program for non-warranty issues, such as wear and tear, at a fee.
On the other hand, Away offers a limited lifetime warranty for their luggage, which covers defects in materials and workmanship, but not damage caused by airline handling. In the event of a warranty claim, Away will either repair or replace the item, but they may require the customer to pay for shipping costs. Away also offers a paid repair program for non-warranty issues. You may also want to check our Monos vs Away guide.
Overall, while both brands offer warranty programs, Tumi’s program is more extensive and covers more situations. However, Away’s lifetime warranty is a nice perk, especially for those who plan to use their luggage frequently. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and priorities.
The Bottom Line
Overall, both Away and Tumi offer high-quality luggage options with their own unique features and benefits. Away offers a more affordable option with modern designs and a 100-day trial period. Tumi provides a more luxurious option with high-end materials and superior durability, but at a higher price point. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and budget. However, if you prioritize style and affordability, Away may be the better choice, while those looking for ultimate durability and premium materials may lean towards Tumi.
