In a new series questioning the value of premium products, Metro's travel experts are putting high-end items to the test. This week, the spotlight falls on a luxury suitcase from the chic US brand Away, which comes with a hefty £345 price tag and a list of celebrity admirers including Harry Styles and Meghan Markle.
The Premium Price Tag vs. Budget Alternatives
The suitcase under review is the Away Large Flex, which costs a substantial £345. This is hundreds of pounds more than our journalist has ever spent on luggage and stands in stark contrast to budget-friendly options. For comparison, popular budget brand Tripp sells its most expensive expandable large case for just £79.50. The question posed is simple: can spending as much on your suitcase as on your flight ever be justified?
The test was conducted on a real-world journey across London to Heathrow Airport, a notoriously stressful schlep involving the Tube during rush hour – an act the author describes as worthy of "Napoleon-style" exile from the city.
Features, Weight, and Practicality for the Frequent Flyer
As a self-confessed heavy packer who travels frequently, the reviewer had specific needs: roomy but lightweight luggage that is easy to organise and manoeuvre alone. The Away case offers 104 litres of space when expanded, with dimensions of 73.6cm x 52.1cm x 31.8cm. Inside, it boasts zip-up dividers, a laundry bag, and a compression pad.
However, a significant drawback is its weight. The hard-shell case itself weighs 5.7kg empty. This means on an airline like EasyJet with a standard 23kg hold allowance, you start with just 17.3kg for your belongings. The author noted this weight penalty made sticking to airline limits a challenge.
On the positive side, the case excels in manoeuvrability. Its 360-degree spinner wheels provide a smooth, quiet glide across various surfaces, a blessing on silent train platforms. Additional handles, including one at the bottom, aid with heavy lifting. The build quality feels exceptionally sturdy, promising durability against rough baggage handling, and it comes with a lifetime warranty.
The Final Verdict: Who Should Splash the Cash?
So, is the Away Large Flex worth £345? The conclusion is nuanced. The suitcase is undoubtedly stylish, robust, and easy to handle. It looks expensive, eschewing garish logos for muted tones like olive green, navy, or the cherry red chosen for this test.
Ultimately, the value depends on how often you travel. For the occasional holidaymaker, the cost is difficult to justify when more affordable suitcases exist. For the frequent long-haul traveller, however, the cost-per-trip calculation and the need for reliable, high-performance luggage may make the investment worthwhile.
The review was published by Kristina Beanland on January 10, 2026, as part of Metro's "So, Is It Worth It?" series. The product was tested on a journey from central London to Heathrow Airport.
