You’ve seen the social media ads. Your favourite influencer is posing with a set. It’s ranked high on Google when you type “premium luggage”.
It’s Monos. And if you landed on this page because you searched “is Monos worth it?” or “Monos review” or “best carry-on luggage”, welcome! It’s nice to meet you. Let’s get right to it, shall we?
A warning: this isn’t simply a laundry list of Monos luggage features. There’s a website for that, and if you’re looking for a straight review, Google will take you there. Instead, this post is intended to provide colour commentary; a little extra info into why Monos may be worth checking out.
Also, a disclaimer: I was gifted two pieces in exchange for my honest review. I’ve been travelling a long time and I don’t need more luggage. So, you can be assured that I’m not swayed in the slightest by free product. However, I was curious to see if Monos luggage lived up to the aforementioned online hype.
Here are five reasons to check out Monos:
1. They’re a Canadian luggage brand, eh? I love to lead with a little patriotism, because if there’s a chance to support local, you know I’m all in. Based in Vancouver – also the location of the Monos flagship store – the company launched in spring 2018 after CEO Victor Tam bought a suitcase online and was disappointed with the quality. He corralled a few childhood friends and together, they made a sizeable investment to get the ball rolling… and the rest, as they say, is history.
2. The design ethos of Monos is all about simplicity and functionality. If clean lines, crisp compartments and muted hues are your thing, you’ll fall in love with the sleekism in every Monos piece.
There’s a certain aesthetic, or perhaps it’s a “for the ‘gram” moment, that Monos plays into perfectly. Premium luggage so chic in its simplicity that it goes with everything. And somehow, the company creates this curated lifestyle product while remaining affordable to their demographic. It’s not a stretch to say that Monos looks much, much more expensive than it is, which I feel is part of the draw when purchasing a set. Think attainable Hamptons, or Sofia Richie for Zara.
3. If you’re looking for durability, they’ve made it their mantra. I know firsthand how careless (disrespectful?) baggage handlers can be, having my own Monos Check-In Large scuffed after a recent flight. (More on that in a second.) But first, their quality testing:
Monos luggage is put through 40 tests. In fact, you should visit their website to read more. (My favourite: the drop test: the suitcase is stored at -12°C for 4 hours before testing, and then loaded with up to 55 lbs inside. It’s then dropped on each surface, edge, and corner from a height of 90 cm.) There’s also the tumble test, the mileage test, the telescopic handle jerk test, the wheel abrasion test… yes, they’ve done their due diligence. Does that mean the suitcases are indestructible? Of course not. But Monos believes in their quality and offers the following warranty:
“All Monos luggage purchased directly from us is backed by a lifetime warranty extended to the original owner of the item. Monos products purchased through authorized third-party retailers are also backed by our lifetime warranty.”
The warranty covers:
Cracks or breaks in the shell
Wheels, handles, or telescoping handles that break off or are no longer usable
Broken zippers
It’s simple. Keep your receipt. Use your luggage with confidence.
However, it’s important to know that the warranty does not cover cosmetic damage, including scratches, dents, dings, scuffs, stains, colour changes and normal wear and tear. Why did I highlight this? I have Monos luggage in Rose Quartz. It’s a lighter shade, and after just one trip though checked luggage, it’s really scuffed and stained. I’ve read that baking soda or a Magic Eraser works well to neutralize the dinge – I’ll try that. If you’re not into cleaning new luggage, my advice would be to purchase a Monos luggage cover, or simply opt for a darker shade.
4. They have sales, often. I generally don’t recommend buying anything at full price, and, knowing Monos has frequent discounts and promo codes, you’ll want to wait for a drop in digits. Look for anywhere from 10-50% off, with the average discount being 20%.
However, if the item you’ve had your eye on is not on sale and you need it in a pinch, use code LISTEN2LENA to take 5% off your purchase. The code is good through to December 31, 2023.
5. Business-friendly. Although I promised this wouldn’t be a straight review, I do feel the need to highlight the Carry-On Pro and Carry-On Pro Plus. The Carry-On Pro is the same size as the original Carry-On, with the addition of a front pocket, laptop sleeve and zippered pouches. The Carry-On Pro Plus boasts an additional exterior pocket to store electronic items like laptops, iPads or travel headphones.
While I wouldn’t recommend it for air travel (it’s too big for most Canadian airline carry-on restrictions and too small to make paying for checked baggage a viable option), I LOVE the Carry-On Pro Plus for road trips. It stores everything I need for a 3-4 night trip or long weekend, and I finally have somewhere to secure my electronics.
To summarize, Monos luggage may be right for you if:
1. You like supporting a Canadian luggage brand
2. You have a clean, sleek and minimalist aesthetic
3. You’re looking for quality and durability
4. You like paying less for luggage that looks expensive
5. You’re a business traveller
Have a question about Monos? Drop it in the comments. Click here to visit monos.com.
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