Monos Expandable Carry-on Bag Travel Writer Review

As a seasoned travel writer, I’m always dashing from place to place, zipping through airport terminals, waiting in line for car rentals, and checking into hotels. The last thing I want to worry about is checking a bag and waiting at the baggage claim. I haven’t checked a bag in over ten years, and I love the convenience it affords me when traveling. Needless to say, reliable carry-on luggage makes a world of difference.

That’s where my favorite luggage company, Monos, comes in. Founded in 2018, the Canadian company designs and manufactures high-quality luggage products. Its hardcase shells are made with aerospace-grade, water-resistant polycarbonate materials. All its cases feature 360-degree spinner wheels, which makes navigating through airports and hotel lobbies (and over carpets!) a breeze. I also love how they offer matching toiletry kits, laptop sleeves, and bags to pair with the luggage. As a fan of color coordination, I can stay stylish when traveling with these matching pieces.

I’ve been using the Monos Classic Carry-on for several years now, so when they launched the Expandable Collection early this summer, I jumped at the chance to give it a try. Since getting the new Monos Expandable Carry-on, I’ve used it on a glamping adventure, domestic trips to Tahoe and Big Sky, Montana, and even an international work trip to Paris. Overall, it has been a sleek, efficient, and spacious addition to my carry-on-only traveling.

Monos Expandable Carry-on

Because I’ve used the original Monos Carry-on bag for years, I can vouch for what a big difference this new expandable version makes. Before expansion, it has just under 10 inches of depth; once expanded, it allows for an additional 1.6 inches of space for packing. You’d be surprised at how much more you can squeeze into this amount of space! On one side of the luggage is a zipped panel, which is where I like to pack my shoes and items that don’t fold flat. The other side features an interior compression pad, along with nylon straps that keep my items compact and organized. 

The main difference between the new Expandable Monos carry-on bags, the Carry-on and the Carry-on Pro, is the latter’s built-in front compartment. This pricier version (it comes in at $345) has two interior sleeves that can store a laptop and any other items you’d like to have quick access to. There’s also an interior zippered pocket to fit smaller items such as a cell phone, wallet, or passport. Both pieces of luggage come with an antimicrobial laundry bag and two shoe bags, along with a vegan leather luggage tag. I typically carry my laptop in the Cuyana System Tote, which is why I opted for the standard carry-on.

Monos Expandable Carry-on

Unlike most luggage handles, the Monos handle is made of high-grade aluminum, with the release on the underside, so it’s more ergonomically efficient (basically, it’s much more comfortable than a standard luggage handle). Additionally, it has four easily adjustable height settings for easy maneuverability. The company ensures its products go through rigorous testing for quality so they’ll be long-lasting (which I can attest to since I’ve used my Monos luggage for so long).

I also liked the TSA-approved lock system that is easy to use and keeps items safe. I got this bag in the simple Storm Grey hue, but there are two others to choose from: Ocean Blue and Midnight Black. And, keep in mind that there’s also the Expandable Check-in Medium available in this new line if you need a bigger bag.

In addition to my own positive experience using this bag, the Expandable Carry-on has received rave reviews from others. Many praised its sleek design and high-quality, indestructible material. Some five-star reviewers couldn’t believe how much space they could get in a carry-on with the expandable feature. “It has lots of space without interior add-ons that get in the way,” wrote one person. Others agreed with me when it comes to the efficiency of the wheels. One reviewer said, “It’s easy to roll on both pavement and tile; it’s very smooth overall.” 

Expandable Carry-on

Ultimately, for me the final test for any carry-on is whether it fits easily into most overhead bins; I’m here to say that this Monos carry-on does. Although you’ll want to check with your airline and the type of plane you’re flying on, I haven’t had a problem so far. Monos has a generous 100-day trial on suitcases, so you can test it out in your home and send it back if you aren’t completely satisfied. All its products have a limited lifetime warranty, too, so if the shell cracks, the zippers burst, or the wheels break, they’ll send either a replacement part or luggage, depending on the situation. 

While I highly recommend this Monos luggage, I also found similar-style carry-ons that are more affordable at Amazon if you want to spend a little less.

Shop More Expandable Carry-on Luggage:

LuggexPC Expandable Hard Shell Suitcase

This expandable carry-on is made of polycarbonate, featuring aluminum corner protectors for hard-wearing travel adventures. Once expanded, it offers 15% more space for loading up your necessities. 

Bagsmart Hardside Expandable Luggage

I own several Bagsmart products, like its packing cubes and tote bags. Its products are super reliable and long-lasting, and this expandable luggage is no exception. Weighing in at 6.8 pounds, it’s lightweight and allows for an additional two inches of packing space. With high-quality, smooth wheels to move through airports, this luggage is just what you need for your next trip. 

Rockland Hardside Expandable Luggage 

Lightweight and durable, Rockland’s Expandable Carry-on helps travelers navigate seamlessly on their journeys with rotating spinner wheels. It’s offered in nine colors and is a great deal at just $56, so be sure to get it before it’s gone.

Pagosa Indestructible Hardshell Expandable Spinner Luggage

Not only is this hardshell abrasion and scratch-proof, it’s also water-resistant. Once fully expanded, it provides an additional two inches of luggage real estate. Consumers give it mostly five-star ratings, praising its sturdiness and maneuverability, along with having great internal compartments.

Rollink Flex 360 Carry-on Fully Collapsible Suitcase

For storage-saving benefits while traveling, this hardshell option weighs only 6 pounds and features 360-degree double spinner wheels. When expanded, it should fit most carry-on size requirements, but when collapsed, it’s only five inches deep, perfect for storing in small spaces.

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