MONOS Carry On Luggage - 3 Months Later Review

Today we chat about the Monos Carry On Luggage and why after a few months and 3 countries later, I don't think it's worth the money. It seems brands are getting really good with random features that don't make much of a difference long term or for seasoned travelers. I really wanted to love this carry on luggage but it just didn't deliver for the steep price.

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00:00 Introduction
00:13 Comparison of Away vs. Monos Luggage
00:24 Feature I Thought I'd Love
00:37 How have I used this bag?
00:58 Why the front pocket isn't ideal.
02:36 What happens if you check your bag?
03:39 How I actually used the pocket.
04:39 Quality of the wheels
05:02 Reasons you don't need the pocket
06:21 Final Thoughts

[gravel.travel]

Hey travelers! Let us know if you've used this bag or what your favorite luggage has been!?

[smay]

Personally i found Carry On Pro is useful cos i don't use my laptop while flying on a plane, and laptop is putting extra stress on my shoulder if i put my laptop in my backpack.

[khakiswag]

I have the Monos Carry On Plus and it's been great. Never had a problem with the wheels even when rolling on a brick road. I didn't get the pocket because it does take up space and I've packed over a week of clothes in the COP with ease. It's the best luggage I've ever bought.

[nyproductguy]

These are possibly the dumbest reasons why someone doesn't like this carry on. I'm shopping for a new, modern carry on and stumbled on this review. As someone who travels often for business, I would NEVER put my laptop, tablet, electronics in a carry on suitcase.... EVER. That makes zero sense for someone to do that. My laptop and electronics are always in a backpack when I travel. I envision the front pocket for quick access to things while you are OFF the plane, not on it. Also can be used for dirty laundry.

[knightman]

In my mind this luggage is meant for the minimalist traveler. Someone who doesn’t want to lug around a backpack in the airport. I think the front media pocket is for quick access to remove the electronics at the TSA scanners. I would keep one of those string backpacks in the same sleeve so that I can transfer the laptop/ipad from the luggage to the string backpack when I get to the gate just before boarding the flight. That way the electronics I use on the flight are under the front seat and the luggage goes in the overhead.

[paulrr]

This bag is probably best for business travel and constantly having to take your laptop out at security or at an airport lounge, coffee shop at your destination city, etc. Definitely not the best choice for long-haul flights or overseas travel where, yeah, you would need more interior space. I can see it being useful.

[arlinkr]

You're comparing apples with oranges. You know Monos has a luggage option without the pocket, right?

[cmg]

Mostly agree. I just move flat or light things to that front pocket. It is convenient for sitting at the gate but I never leave important things in there.

[RaeWilliams]

I dont get it. The pocket on any luggage wouldnt be available while its in the overhead. Also any front pocket luggage is going to minimize the internal storage. You just wouldn't use that kind of luggage if thats your goal. Use a backpack as you suggested.

[HudsonHufham-rbnt]

all you have to do is have a little tote bag packed in case they gate check - used that many times in worst case scenarios

[Aleslie-wy]

Thanks for pointing out the outside pocket. Appreciate the honesty.

[awalters]

The feature isn’t useless. It’s useless to you because you don’t utilize it. The pocket feature isn’t something new, and the interior space should not be over packed in the first place. That’s travel 101.

As far as the comment, it doesn’t sound like you or others are prepared for travel. A carrier can make you gate check a bag at any time and you should be prepared.

I don’t work for Monos or get paid for my opinion…but these types of reviews are why I end up buying things and trying them on my own.

[davidhalley]

I don’t think it’s useless. Just don’t be “that person” who gets up several times opening the overhead bin. I would think you’d take it out before you get on the plane and put it back before you land or wait until you deplane. Laptops can be heavy for some folks carrying them in their backpack. I do thank you for pointing out how much space you lose on one side. I’ll have to see for myself before I make a choice.

[NoviceNatural_]

This is probably the most, to use your words, “useless” review Ive seen in a while. For a multitude of reasons, but I’ll limit it to a few:
1. It’s disingenuous to compare two brands using two different model types. The equal comparison to the Monos Pro would be an Away Front Pocket.
2. The front pocket design is not limited to Monos or just hard side luggage for that matter. Researching a product to understand the functionality prior to purchasing is important. And when it doesn’t meet your needs, that’s totally fine, but that’s not a manufacturing problem.
3. You mention a deterrent being that fact that you have to get up to get to the overhead bin to access your device as a con. What is the solution if you were forced to check the bag. I presume you would place your electronic device in the personal item you readily have access to.

All this to say, I’m not pro or con either company. But if you are going to call a product useless, at least have an objective review. And if the answer is you just like Away, you can say that without discrediting something else.

[fumartinez]

I have a Carry On Pro and a Carry On. When I use the pro I give up space for convenience. The front pocket is very thin and my Dell does not fit in the internal sleeve inside of the front pocket. I have to leave it raw dog in the front pocket. It seems that the sleeve will work for a 13 inch MBA for example. The pro is fine for a 2-3 day work trip when you don't want to carry around a second bag for your laptop. Recently I went on a 5 day trip to Europe and used the Carry On and a separate bag for my laptop. I was able to jam the carry on with my clothes AND a medium weight jacket which surprised me but the compression does work! If I had to pick one I would look at the carry on because you get more capacity. It might make sense to compare it with the Quince which is a similar style bag for a much lower price.

[xtanwolff]

What about the handles? Seems the Away is considered "flimsly" compared to the Monos. Thoughts?

[ScottTR]

The front pocket is the same as my Samsonite. I would never buy a bag without the laptop pocket. It prevents you getting in a mess going thru security. Easy to reach when waiting around . Madness to not choose this pocket.

[girlwithiceandfire]

I loved the pocket because all the travel I do, I spend a lot of time in airports and it made laptop, chargers, and anything else I needed to get more easily accessible sitting or wherever you were. Otherwise you're having to lay down suitcase and dig.

[Tttl-yj]

Buyer Beware: Scratches on Luggage
Be cautious when purchasing this luggage, as it is highly prone to scratches. After just a one-week trip without checking it in, I found scratches all over the surface. Additionally, the 100-day trial period only allows for the luggage to be inspected or tested in your living room. Please pay close attention to the fine print before making a decision.

[seeyeexiong]

I think the front pocket is useful. Quick access to little things instead of opening the whole suitcase.