4 min readMy long weekend on Maine’s coast, five-day escape to South America, and two-week trek across South Asia have one thing in common: the same suitcase set. I’ve had my Monos carry-on bag and check-in bag for over two years. They’ve followed me on domestic and long-haul international flights. And there’s a reason I reach for them before any other pieces. They’re the most durable luggage I’ve ever owned.
I can always rely on my Monos set for easy handling on the most complicated trips. It’s been tossed around by security professionals, rolled over rough terrain, and stuffed to the brim with souvenirs. When a product has been stress-tested like that, it’s earned my lifelong seal of approval. After two years of testing, here's everything I love about Monos luggage and why I'll still be using it for years to come.
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Monos Carry-On Review
The Monos Carry-On measures 22" x 14" x 9", and it has enough room for a five-day trip. It has the best maneuverability of any carry-on suitcase that I've tested. I've wheeled it on rough gravel roads, through puddles, and on airport carpet with zero issues. This suitcase is my go-to whenever I travel to small towns with less pavement and more cobblestone.
The compression panel design in the carry-on is genius—it opens toward the top of the suitcase rather than to the side. This means you can pack both sides of the suitcase at the same time, rather than one covering the other. The size is more conservative, fitting the typical U.S. airline restrictions, but it leaves room for plenty of my shoes and packing cubes. I never have to worry if I’m in the last boarding group. The carry-on always fits overhead. Plus, since it's such a sturdy build, I can put my heaviest items in the carry-on and avoid checked bag weight restrictions.
Pros of the Monos Carry-On
- The button is on the underside of the handle for a sleeker, uninterrupted facade
- Sturdy outer shell is highly durable and water-resistant
- The handle is stable enough to hold a heavy personal item
- The organization makes it easy to pack
Cons of the Monos Carry-On
- Doesn't have expandable zippers
- No exterior storage for a laptop or documents
Monos Check-In Medium Review
The Monos Check-In Medium measures 26.5" x 18.5" x 10.5", and its capacity is designed for a seven- to 21-day trip. (It also comes in a large version, but I chose the medium because I didn't want a suitcase that was too large for me to maneuver.) I used to be too nervous to travel with a suitcase that doesn’t expand. However, the Monos’ capacity has pleasantly surprised me at every turn. It always holds more than you think it can, and the outer shell is actually pretty forgiving. Just by using some well-placed packing cubes, I’ve packed two weeks of outfits for traveling the Malaysian Peninsula.
The zippers are so durable that I never worry about them tearing when it’s packed to the brim. It comes with organization, but it’s unfussy. The compartments and mesh dividers are made of a thin but durable canvas material, so they leave you with more room to pile clothes high. Compared to bulky compression panels that are tricky to work with, this is a much easier packing process.
Pros of the Monos Check-In Medium
- Comes with a TSA-approved zipper lock
- Durable aerospace-grade shell holds up to rough treatment
- Includes a limited lifetime warranty and a 100-day trial period
- Holds enough for my two-week trip
Cons of the Monos Check-In Medium
- Scuffs may show on lighter-colored suitcases
- Might require packing cubes for organization
What Are Monos Suitcases Made Of?
The Monos suitcases are made of an aerospace-grade polycarbonate shell. This makes them extra durable and extra waterproof, which I learned the hard way. While waiting at an outdoor train station, I got stuck in a downpour with my two Monos suitcases. When my train finally arrived, I was so relieved that all of my items were still bone-dry. On a summer trip from Singapore to Thailand, my cousin’s suitcase cracked from the handling. My Monos had a cosmetic dent, but otherwise was unharmed. Each suitcase even undergoes rigorous factory testing, from drop tests to wheeling it on stairs and rough roads.
How Do Monos Suitcases Hold Up Over Time?
After over two years of use on both domestic and international travel, my Monos suitcases still roll like they’re brand new. No chips in the paint, and no scuffs you couldn’t buff out. My check-in finally sustained a dent this summer after two years of spotless travel. But even with my overpacking, there’s no damage to the zippers or the mesh compartments. I can’t say the same for previous suitcases. I’m confident these will remain my go-tos for years to come. I’ve had my Monos set for so long that my terrazzo pattern has been sadly discontinued, but they come in so many different colors that you will find one that suits your taste and travel style.
The Verdict: Is Monos Luggage Worth the Buy?
Monos luggage is absolutely worth buying, especially if you prioritize durability and easy maneuvering. They're long-lasting, stylish, and have TONS of room. My Monos suitcases made a believer out of a skeptic. I didn’t think I’d ever willingly buy a suitcase that didn’t expand, let alone enjoy using it. Yet I've never felt truly limited by its size, and it's made even the roughest travel routes feel like a breeze. It holds up to anything you can throw at it, and the slim profile fits in any overstuffed car trunk or tiny overhead compartment. It’s at a higher price point, but I’ve gotten luxury luggage before that was nowhere near Monos quality. It’s an investment you can count on.
