Considering Monos luggage as your next travel set? In this Monos luggage review, I’m sharing my opinion (pros *and* cons) of the luggage brand after owning the classic Carry On for just over a year; including whether or not I would purchase from the brand again.
These days, luggage brands are prioritizing style as much as practicality. Brands like Away, and Shay Mitchell’s luggage line Béis were on my radar before I decided on Canadian-founded Monos.
On top of stylish designs, Monos Travel has a great marketing strategy. If you’re considering their travel sets and have landed on this Monos luggage review, chances are you’ve come across one or two of their social media campaigns.
However, as nice as their suitcases look, and as good as their marketing is, does their product hold up when it comes to quality?
In this Monos luggage review, I’m sharing my experience with the Monos Carry On after using it for just over a year.
I’ll be comparing it to my experience with other brands I have used, as well as the features and benefits of the Monos Carry On, plus whether or not I will be purchasing from Monos in the future.
Monos Editor’s Pick: The Monos classic Carry On in Desert Taupe.
Note: This Monos luggage review is based on my own experience using the bag. This review is not sponsored, and does not include affiliate links.
This Monos review covers the following:
- Monos luggage review
- Monos Carry-On features
- Monos luggage options
- Monos Carry-On accessories
- Monos luggage customer service
- Monos FAQs – My experience
- Final verdict – Would I purchase from Monos again?
Monos Luggage Review: My Experience After One Year
Monos Travel was founded in Vancouver by entrepreneurs Victor Tam, Hubert Chan, and Daniel Shin. The trio had the goal of creating high quality, stylish luggage, at an affordable price, which led them to launching the DTC luggage brand in 2018.
Style, quality, and the fact that it was a Canadian-born startup brand were all selling points for me, which led to my purchase of the Monos Carry On last winter.
Monos Carry On Review: First impressions
I was way past due for a new carry on suitcase last year, after owning my previous luggage sets purchased over a decade ago. My suitcases were very worn out after trips to Europe and across Canada – the telescope handles had snapped, and the soft shell cases were stained. Needless to say, I needed a replacement.
I wanted to get a higher quality hard shell suitcase set, starting with a new carry on. I had my eye on Monos, Away or Béis, three brands that incorporate modern style with functionality. I ended up opting for Monos as they had a Boxing Day sale, and purchased the classic Carry-On in the colourway Desert Taupe for $275CAD plus shipping.
Note: According to the Monos website, shipping is now free for Monos customers in Canada and the US. Read the full details here.
My Monos Carry On in Desert Taupe.
When the suitcase arrived neatly packed on my doorstep around a week and a half later, I was surprised at how light it was. When I opened the box, my first impression of the Monos Carry On was that it didn’t seem very durable. The Carry-On is a hardshell suitcase, but the outer shell feels quite thin compared to another carry-on I purchased as part of a set by Swiss Gear later that year. The Monos shell itself is quite thin and has a lot of flexibility.
However, since using the suitcase twice on cross-Canada trips, I haven’t had any issue with the exterior shell – no dents, no scratches, and the suitcase feels sturdy when actually traveling with it. One of the nice things about the shell’s material is that it’s lightweight – so even though I filled the suitcase to the brim, weighing 50+ pounds, the suitcase itself didn’t add too much weight. That makes it easy to lift into the overhead bin without any issues.
The Monos website describes the suitcase shell as the following: “Aerospace-grade, water-resistant polycarbonate hard shell made from partially recycled materials.”
The only issue I’ve had so far is that the suitcase shell is easy to scuff. I purchased the Desert Taupe colour (light beige), so you might not notice it as much with a darker colour. The Carry On did come with a scuff eraser to make cleaning easier. So far, I’ve found any scuffing to be easy to remove with soap and water.
Monos Carry-On: Interior Design
The Monos Carry-On interior is thoughtfully designed with several zippered compartments, a built-in compression pad, and vegan leather detailing.
This has made the luggage easy to pack, and I have found it can easily hold my capsule wardrobe for a week-long trip.
The separated compartments make it easy to organize, and not overstuff the case. While I haven’t had this issue, I’ve read other Monos reviews that say that the telescope handle can get stuck if you overpack the bag.
The interior design of the Monos Carry On includes a zippered compartment, a built in compression pad, and vegan leather detailing throughout.
The Monos Carry On Suitcase: My Experience After One Year
I’ve used the Carry On suitcase several times over the last year, both for overnight trips, and for cross-country flights while moving provinces and traveling for the holidays.
Despite my initial apprehension that the shell wouldn’t hold up, I have been pleasantly surprised – the flexible shell makes the suitcase easy to pack and zip up, even if it’s tightly packed. The handle expands smoothly, and the 360 spinner wheels make it easy to navigate through tight airplane aisles. The wheels glide really smoothly and quietly. I also haven’t had any issue fitting the Monos Carry-On in the overhead bins, on both Westjet and Air Canada flights, Canada’s largest airlines. I haven’t had the chance to take it on an international trip yet.
Recap: Carry On Pros & Cons
Monos Carry On Pros:
- Stylish design
- Lightweight
- Easy to organize
- Rolls smoothly & easy to travel with
Monos Carry On Cons:
- Scuffs easily
- Warranty only covers non-cosmetic damages (see below)
Monos Carry On Dimensions
The exterior dimensions on the Monos Carry on are 22″ × 14″ × 9″, while the total weight is 7.01lbs.
According to the Air Canada website, the maximum accepted dimensions for carry ons are 21.5” x 15.5” x 9″.
So far, I have been able to easily fit the Monos Carry On in the overhead bins of all of the Air Canada flights I have been on.
I haven’t yet travelled with this case internationally or on budget airlines, so it’s best to check the maximum accepted dimensions for carry ons on the airline you will be traveling on before your make a purchase.
Maximum carry on luggage dimensions from the Air Canada website.
Monos Carry-On Features
The Monos Carry On has eight colour options, and an additional 5 limited edition colourways to choose from.
The classic Carry On suitcase comes with a range of features that include:
- Water-resistant hard shell
- 360° spinner wheels
- Adjustable handle with settings
- Anti-microbial lining, made from 100% recycled polyester
- Vegan leather detailing
- TSA-approved combination lock
- Built-in, removable compression pad with zippered pocket
The Monos Carry On also comes with several accessories that help to keep your belongings secure and organized while you’re traveling.
These luggage accessories include:
- One antimicrobial, silver ion-coated laundry bag
- Two shoe bags
- Vegan leather luggage tag
Visit the Monos website for the detailed list of features.
The carry on comes with a vegan leather bag tag, and a TSA approved built in lock.
Monos luggage vegan leather bag tag.
Monos Luggage Options
Monos comes with a range of luggage options that are sold separately, or as sets, so you can choose exactly which features suit you best, and build your own custom travel set.
You can check out the Monos website to browse their full range of products.
Monos offers several luggage options, for carry ons and check ins.
Monos Luggage Pricing
The Monos Carry On has four different models.
These include the regular Carry On (and Plus), Carry On Pro (and Plus), Hybrid Carry On (and Plus).
The Carry on Plus features an additional front compartment, and the Plus versions are slightly larger. If you are looking for a carry on that’s very durable, the Hybrid Carry-On is designed with a “virtually unbreakable” shell.
As of January 2024, the Monos Carry On models range in price from $285 to $415CAD.
The check in models range in price from $385 to $555CAD.
Here is how competitor brands Away and Béis compare price-wise:
*Away Carry Ons: $360 up to $860CAD for their aluminum carry on suitcases.
Away Check Ins: $460 to $580CAD.
*Béis Carry Ons: $293 to $333CAD.
Biés Check-Ins: $413 to $440CAD.
*Price ranges are as of January 2024.
Monos Luggage Customer Service
Monos Return Policy: 100-Day Trial
Monos offers a 100-day trial where you can test out the suitcase at home to see whether you like it. However, the trial is only valid if you test it out indoors. You cannot take the suitcase on a trip within this trial period, otherwise it will be void.
In essence, if the suitcase is used, it cannot be returned for a refund. According to their website, customers also have to cover shipping costs related to making returns.
Note: This trial does not apply to all Monos products, and some may only come with a 30 day return period. For a complete overview of the 100-day trial, visit the official Monos website.
Monos Shipping
At the time of my purchase, I paid for shipping. However, according to the website (as of January 2024), Monos now offers free shipping in the US and Canada. Outside of these areas, shipping costs will be applied.
Duty fees will be applied to your Monos luggage purchase if you live outside of these designated areas.
Monos FAQs – & My Experience With The Monos Carry-On
Where to buy Monos luggage?
As a DTC brand, Monos luggage can be purchased online on Monos.com.
The brand also opened a flagship store in Vancouver’s Kitsilano neighbourhood where you can test out their products in person.
Does Monos luggage fit on Air Canada?
In my experience, yes! I have flown on several Air Canada flights with the Monos Carry On, and was able to easily fit it into the overhead bins without any problem. The dimensions of the Carry On are very close to the recommended carry on dimensions on the Air Canada website.
It’s always advisable to check the maximum dimensions allowed of the airline you will be flying with before purchasing.
Does Monos luggage scuff easily?
Unfortunately, also yes. As mentioned, I purchased the Desert Taupe colourway, and the light beige colour seems to scuff and show dirt very easily. However, so far the scuffing has also been quite easy to clean. As an added bonus, Monos included a scuff eraser along with the other luggage accessories. You can also purchase a Monos luggage cover separately.
Does Monos have a lifetime warranty?
Yes, Monos luggage comes with a lifetime warranty for specific damages. This warranty covers the original owner of the luggage, and covers purchases made directly from Monos.com, and from authorized third party retailers. These damages include the wheels, handles, and telescoping handles, as well as cracks and breaks in the shell, and damaged zippers.
Note: The Monos luggage warranty does NOT cover what they consider cosmetic damages, which include dents, colour changes, and more.
You can read more about the details of the Monos warranty here.
Is it easy to clean Monos luggage?
The Monos Carry On came with a scuff eraser for the exterior shell. So far, I have avoided any spills on the interior of my carry on, but according to the Monos website, you can also use warm water and soap for both the exterior, and the interior lining.
The Monos carry on came with a scuff eraser, pictured.
Final Verdict: Would I Purchase Monos Luggage Again?
So, is Monos luggage worth it?
Despite my initial doubts when the suitcase first arrived, so far I’ve had a very positive experience using the Monos Carry On while travelling. I would definitely purchase another Monos luggage Carry On, or try out the Carry On Pro or Plus for their additional room and features.
While I like the design of the original Monos Check In luggage, based on my research, and reading other Monos reviews, several people have had issues with the classic luggage getting badly dented in transit. Because the Monos warranty doesn’t cover dents (which they consider cosmetic), I would personally hold off on a purchase of their classic check in luggage until they are able to adjust this warranty to cover that kind of damage. Otherwise, I wouldn’t want to run the risk of having a $400 to $550 dollar badly dented, without having warranty coverage in place.
Having said that, based on my positive experience with the quality of Monos luggage, I would still take a chance on the Monos Hybrid Check In.
Quoted from their website, Monos describes the Hybrid Check In as, “Outfitted with a hard polycarbonate shell that features a refined metallic finish, zipperless aluminum frame, and sturdy, anodized aluminum corner guards, the Hybrid Check-In Medium is virtually unbreakable.”
The Hybrid suitcase is meant to be more durable than the regular check in.
A “virtually unbreakable” promise is something I would be much more comfortable with checking into an international flight, for example.
To conclude, despite my initial apprehension, I would give my experience with the Monos Carry On a 5 star review for its style, ease of use, and great interior design which makes packing for short trips a breeze.
All in all, I am quite happy with my experience with Monos luggage, and will update this review once I have used it for another year. I will likely make one of Monos’ duffel bags, or weekender bags my next purchase, or the Hybrid suitcase for my next check in.
For those of you who have had to make a return, or use the Monos warranty, what has your client experience been? Would you purchase Monos luggage again?
Share your own Monos luggage reviews below!
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