Monos Luggage Review

About Monos Luggage

Life is impractical and travel doesn’t always come at our leisure—nor does it always go the way we planned. Though luggage seems like a small sliver of taking a trip, I’ve found it to have a huge impact on how my journey goes.

Monos is a Canadian company founded in 2018. The folks behind the brand believe in simple, streamlined, and beautiful luggage that will last a lifetime. It sells elite travel luggage.

Practical to keep you organized on unexpected airport runs, its catalog of carry-ons and check-in luggage is durable to last through a lifetime of family vacations.

Heavily influenced by Japanese culture^[1], I admire their simple designs and functional design—a great pick for those with an open mind and an eye for detail.

Monos is also conscientious of its role as a steward of the earth. As they put it, “The planet gives us so much to explore, and it’s our responsibility to protect” it. I was delighted to read that it’s the first luggage brand to be Climate Neutral Certified and meet the difficult standard of zero emissions. The brand also donates 1% of their revenue to organizations dedicated to healing the planet.

Jetting off on your solo adventure or family vacation? In this Monos luggage review, I’ll provide an in-depth look at the brand and its best-selling products, prices, and fine-print policies in detail—so that you can decide if the bags are worth bringing along.

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Pros and Cons

Before I get further into this Monos luggage review, let’s explore some advantages and disadvantages of the brand’s products:

Pros

• Durable construction: Monos luggage is constructed from high-quality materials such as polycarbonate, which makes it strong and durable.
• Stylish design: Monos luggage has a sleek and modern design that looks stylish and sophisticated.
• Good organization: Monos luggage features multiple compartments and pockets that help to keep your belongings organized and easy to access.
• TSA-approved locks: All Monos luggage comes with TSA-approved locks that add an extra layer of security to your belongings.
• Expandable: Many of Monos’ luggage models have an expandable design, which allows you to increase the packing capacity of your luggage.
• Personalization: Monos offers optional personalization of their luggage with monogramming, which allows you to add your initials or a custom message to your luggage.

Cons

• Expensive: Monos luggage is priced at the higher end of the market, which may make it unaffordable for some travelers.
• Limited color options: Monos luggage is available in a limited range of colors, which may not appeal to everyone.
• Limited size options: Monos luggage is available in a limited range of sizes, which may not suit everyone’s needs.
• Heavy: Monos luggage can be heavier than some other brands, which may make it less suitable for travelers who prefer lightweight luggage.

Overall, Monos luggage offers a range of high-quality, stylish, and functional travel bags, but the higher price point and limited color and size options may be a drawback for some travelers.

Materials

Monos luggage is constructed from high-quality materials that are designed to be durable, lightweight, and resistant to scratches and dents. The materials used in Monos luggage include:

1. Polycarbonate: Monos luggage shells are made from polycarbonate, which is a strong and lightweight material that is also impact-resistant. Polycarbonate is known for its durability and resistance to scratches and dents, which makes it ideal for travel luggage.
2. Aluminum: Some of Monos luggage models have aluminum frames and handles, which add extra durability and strength to the luggage. Aluminum is a lightweight and strong material that is commonly used in the aerospace and automotive industries.
3. Nylon: Monos luggage also features high-quality nylon fabrics that are water-resistant and durable. Nylon is a popular material for luggage due to its lightweight and abrasion-resistant properties.
4. Leather: Monos uses genuine leather for their luggage handles and trims, which adds a touch of luxury and sophistication to the luggage. Leather is a durable and elegant material that is commonly used in high-end luggage.

Overall, Monos luggage is constructed from a combination of high-quality materials that are chosen for their durability, strength, and resistance to wear and tear.

The use of polycarbonate, aluminum, nylon, and leather results in a luggage that is both stylish and functional.

Features

Monos is a luggage company that offers a range of travel bags and accessories. Here are some of the features of their luggage:

1. Durable materials: Monos luggage is made from high-quality materials that are designed to withstand the rigors of travel. The luggage is constructed from polycarbonate, which is lightweight and durable.
2. TSA-approved locks: All Monos luggage comes with TSA-approved combination locks, which help to keep your belongings safe and secure while traveling.
3. 360-degree spinner wheels: Monos luggage features four 360-degree spinner wheels that provide smooth and easy maneuverability through airports and other travel destinations.
4. Expandable design: Many of Monos’ luggage models have an expandable design, which allows you to increase the packing capacity of your luggage by up to 25%.
5. Interior organization: Monos luggage is designed with interior organization features such as zippered compartments, mesh pockets, and garment straps, which help to keep your belongings organized and secure during travel.
6. Removable laundry bag: Some of Monos’ luggage models come with a removable laundry bag, which allows you to keep dirty or wet clothes separate from your clean clothes.
7. Optional personalization: Monos offers optional personalization of their luggage with monogramming, which allows you to add your initials or a custom message to your luggage.

Overall, Monos luggage is designed with durability, functionality, and style in mind, making it a great option for travelers looking for a high-quality and reliable travel bag.

5 Monos Bestsellers

In this section of my Monos luggage review, I’ll examine some customer favorites. Because this brand has a limited catalog, that means you will get the fine details on nearly every bestseller.

I’ll go over pricing, design details, and a whole lot more. Let’s get started.

Monos Carry-On Review

From its very appearance, I can see that Monos has given the Carry-On a great amount of polish and consideration. The zippers, for example, can be locked in place with a combination code that users can set. 

I don’t travel with many valuables, but this feature gives me a sense of security for any time I bring along jewelry.

The Carry-On is sturdy, sleek, and designed to perfectly fill an overhead compartment on any flight. The 360 degree wheels are smooth and silent, while the handle is ultra-stable with 4 adjustable heights. Tall? You won’t have to worry about slouching to pull along your new piece.

This Monos Carry On luggage is currently on sale for $225, down from $250. You can choose from 8 colors and 2 limited edition patterns that slightly increase the cost.

Monos Check-In Medium Review

I carry-on whenever possible, but for longer trips, I love the extra space check-in bags provide.

Like the name suggests, the Monos Check-In Medium is a mid-sized luggage encased in beautiful vegan leather and perfectly stable parts made in Germany and Japan. I’m head over heels for its smooth, matte look.

With lockable exterior zippers and a soft interior with pockets for everything you need, the design turns it all into a reliable travel companion. Don’t be afraid to pack the extra pair of shoes.

It also includes a bacteria-resistant laundry bag, shoe bags, and a fancy luggage tag. The Check-In Medium is available in 8 colors, including desert taupe, rose quartz, olive green, and in 2 limited editions patterns: terrazzo and terracotta, for those who prefer a little extra. 

The Check-In Medium normally costs $322, but it’s currently on sale for $290.

Monos Check-In Large Review

Traveling light isn’t always possible. When you can’t cram it all it a carry-on, consider the Check-In Large—the ultimate travel luggage for long trips. It keeps you prepared for all the elements, no matter what part of the world you’re in. 

Available in the same colors and patterns as its smaller counterpart, I treasure the fact that it comes with the bacteria-resistant laundry bag, shoe bags, and luggage tag. The big difference is that this version provides maximum space for multiple outfits and shoes. 

Here’s a Monos luggage size comparison: 

• Check-In Medium: Interior of 24.4 inches x 17.7 inches, or 70 liters 
• Check-In Large: Expands to 28 inches x 20.5 inches, or 99.2 liters in volume 

The material quality, handle stability, silent wheels, and plush interior are all the same—and, like its sibling, the Check-In Large is on sale. You can buy it for $320 (originally $356). 

Monos Metro Duffel Review

This is a bag for the books—though technically, it’s made to handle your daily essentials too. The Metro Duffel gives you additional space and convenience without sacrificing mobility or style.

Unlike most duffle bags, I love that this model synchronizes with other Mono luggage by slipping into place on top. I appreciate the way modern luggage bags work this feature into their collections. It’s the ideal way to stay (and look) organized while running to your gate.

You can rest assured it stays secure during long walks across the airport, or when you’re herding toddlers nearby. No more worrisome balancing acts with bags falling over or awkwardly propping one against the other.

The nylon material repels water while the vegan leather brings style. Looking to up my own sustainability score, I like that the brand has an eco-friendly leather option.

The Metro Duffle can be used on its own for a smart everyday method to carry your valuables about town, or at your workplace, and of course while travelling. It can fit a 15-inch laptop with spare room for small personal items and bottles. Magnetic pockets keep everything safely shut in. Get yours for $205-$225.

Monos Metro Backpack Review

I tend to overload my backpack, which ends up doing a number on my shoulders. Instead of bearing the weight, I could just use the Metro Backpack.

Pairing perfectly with Monos luggage via its trolley sleeve, this bag allows it to fit snugly on top without sliding around or running risk of falling— all while remaining easily accessible. 

Digging through the bag’s details, I ooh’ed and aah’ed at the interior waterproof compartments, pouches, and secret pockets with magnetic locks for your most valuable items (such as that chocolate bar to hide from your kids). 

This Monos Backpack comes in 2 materials and 7 colors. It’s your choice between vegan leather in ivory, saddle tan; or mahogany and water-resistant nylon in carbon black, oxford blue, juniper green, or dover grey. 

My favorite part? A 15 inch slot that lets you store and retrieve your laptop without having to open your whole bag. Genius! This agile backpack from Monos costs $195.

Where Is Monos Luggage Made?

While Monos is a Canadian brand with headquarters in Vancouver, I read that their products are manufactured in China. They extend high “standards and values” to their manufacturing partners though.

According to the website, I learned that the brand will only work with factories operating in a way that they deem acceptable for their employees. I wasn’t able to find a 3^rd party verification of these statements for this part of my Monos luggage review, but I think such dedication to ethical business practices also fits with their eco-friendly mission. 

I should also note here that the parts making up a piece of Monos luggage come from all over the world. For example, the polycarbonate shell that protects their carry-on luggage comes from Germany. While the bags are assembled in China, they’re still made from top-quality materials.

How Do You Use A Monos Suitcase?

I’ve heard that a Monos hybrid suitcase is a pleasure to use. It qualifies as carry-on luggage and should be filled with your most personal belongings, as well as any items you might want to use during the flight; whether by necessity or for comfort.

I like to start from the outside and personalize the zipper-locking code, or you can use the default combination, depending on your preference. Then, pack the interior pockets with any personal effects (like a Kindle and eye mask), while reserving the main compartment for slippers, cardigans, socks, general clothing, and larger items. 

Strap it all down so nothing shifts around, then use the supplied waterproof baggies to safely store beauty products, liquids, and creams.

Monos Reviews: What Do Customers Think?

For this part of my Monos luggage review, I wanted to find out what buyers were saying about the brand online. Not surprisingly, I came across glowing feedback from their official website and social media. 

Verified customers on the Monos website give 5/5 stars to all of their luggage options. They apparently love the brand thanks to its thoughtful details that make for a more convenient traveling experience. 

For example, one Metro Duffel reviewer says they appreciate how the bag securely integrates with their Monos Carry-On, making both easy to move around. I read that customers love the colors and classy design, both inside and out.

One thorough 5-star reviewer shared this takeaway: “After going through articles, reviews, YouTube videos, employee comments and their production factory; this company blew the other one away. I felt investing in luggage with Monos was going to be worth the cost and walk away with a superior luggage.” 

On Reddit, normally critical social media users are actually quite interested in Monos. One of them owns an olive Carry-On Plus and reports that it works very well for them, and that they plan to buy more luggage from the company. Their comment read:

“I have their olive green set and their Carry-On Plus model has served me well for short trips. I’m looking to add their newer Carry-On Pro (w/ an external pocket) to my set.”

A few others shoppers were initially uncertain about Monos and were hesitant to dive into the new-ish brand, but after buying they couldn’t finding any faults. That’s a huge win.

Instagram is host to many Monos luggage reviews—even some that touch on Monos luggage collaborations, like with Drunk Elephant. Monos offerings are classically gorgeous and camera-ready, so they make the perfect selfie companion.

As one Instagrammer puts it, “Our first trip with our new luggage was a success! What is better than light, well made, pretty luggage with lots of storage???” In terms of stress-free travel, nothing really.

During this Monos luggage review, I came across only one common complaint from buyers—late delivery. Many left comments on the brand’s social media pages explaining that they were still waiting for their order to arrive after weeks, or that their favorites frequently went out of stock. As it was still a fairly new company when these were written, it looks like Monos has been working on ironing out these kinks.

All in all, the feedback for this brand was great. People love how the products look, feel, and travel. End of story.

Is Monos Luggage Worth It?

If you didn’t get the feeling already, I think Monos is absolutely worth it. The boutique luggage designer makes stunning and streamlined travel companions that turn what can be an annoying hassle into a chilled out adventure.

Customers across social media love posting pictures of their bags because they look both sturdy and stylish.

Are Monos good luggage? Yes, without a doubt. Beyond the visually appealing design, they are engineered with parts from Germany and Japan to be robust, spacious, and convenient to use on the inside and out. 

Features like quiet 360 degree wheels, a multitude of interior pockets, and TSA-approved combination security locks are also a plus. For a luggage upgrade, I think you should strongly consider Monos. If it doesn’t work out, there’s always a 100 day guarantee. 

Alternatives

If you’re shopping around to find the perfect luggage for your next getaway and you’re not sold on Monos, take a look at these brands for more options:

1. Rimowa: Best known for its iconic aluminum suitcases, Rimowa also offers lightweight polycarbonate versions, functional bags, and packing accessories for happy, easy travels.
2. Lipault: Lipault’s suitcases, backpacks, and cross-body bags are as fashion-forward as they are reliable. The Parisian brand creates for the modern fashionista who considers every part of their outfit.
3. July Luggage: Founded in 2019, this Australian-based company reinvents the classic luggage design to be more thoughtful, versatile, and stylish

Monos Promotions & Discounts

While writing this Monos luggage review, I found that you can get a free Carry-On and a Metro Backpack just by joining the brand’s mailing list. 

And this isn’t a one-off promotion—they choose a winner each month, meaning you automatically get a chance to win every 30 days. Everyone has an equal chance, no matter how long you’ve been on the mailing list.

Since no Monos luggage review would be complete without a full list of deals, I tracked down a few more that are currently running:

• 10% off all luggage
• Refer a friend: They get $25, you get $25
• Become Wayfarer & earn points to redeem discounts
• Become a Gold VIP member to save even more
• Free US & Canada shipping

Where to Buy Monos

You can buy Monos luggage exclusively at monos.com.

FAQ

Where is Monos luggage from?

Monos is a Canadian company that operates out of Vancouver, British Columbia. Their products are manufactured in China, though I was glad to read in factories selected for their ethical treatment of workers and high-quality output.

Does Monos have a charger?

The only charger I came across for this Monos luggage review was the one that comes with the CleanPod UVC Sterilizer. For that product, the batteries will last for around 3 hours. 

You will know the CleanPod needs to be charged when the light dims. Alternatively, if used regularly, you can charge it every couple of days.

How long does Monos luggage take to ship?

Shipping is a breeze. Monos takes care of everything via UPS (including the cost) as long as you order from the US or Canada. 

International buyers will be shown a shipping cost at the checkout page, and they should keep in mind—along with US buyers—that goods over $800 trigger extra charges in duties. You can email Monos anytime for a quote.

• Expect up to 10 business days for Monos to process your order
• Canadian customers should receive their order within 10 business days
• For US customers, orders can take 14 days to arrive
• International shipping may take 14 days, but there is no guarantee
• Monos notes that UPS is at capacity, and to watch your tracking information 

What is Monos’s Return Policy?

Monos is so confident in the quality of their travel luggage that you can send back your order “for any reason whatsoever” within 100 days of purchase. They only have a couple of requirements, and I’ll list them all below.

1. The person who purchased the luggage must be the one to contact Monos about the return

2. Don’t scuff up the luggage, as it should show “no signs of use” and look the same as when it was delivered

3. Keep the packaging, because Monos wants it back with the return

4. Email [email protected] to begin the return process

5. You must pay for the return shipping (Monos can print a shipping label for you)

6. Exchange requests must be made within 7 days of the order

In this Monos luggage review, I found out that the Metro Backpack and Duffel bags have a 30-day return window.

How to Contact Monos

For any other questions I didn’t answer in this Monos luggage review, I recommend reaching out to the brand via: 

• Email: [email protected]
• Live chat on their website 

A customer service representative will respond to your queries on weekdays from 9 AM–5 PM PST and weekends from 8 AM–4 PM PST. 

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