# Away ditches the gimmick, doubles down on basics

> Away's new Series 3 luggage removes the battery that made it famous and focuses on solving real travel problems instead.
- Title: Away ditches the gimmick, doubles down on basics · WIRED
- Summary: Away's new Series 3 luggage removes the battery that made it famous and focuses on solving real travel problems instead. Away launched Series 3 luggage…
- Keywords: away, luggage, series 3, carry-on suitcase, travel accessories, product launch, ditches, gimmick, doubles, basics, WIRED
- Source: WIRED — https://wired.com/story/away-launches-series-3-luggage
- Author: Les Shu
- Published: 2026-09-29T18:29:17.102+00:00
- Read time: 2 min
- Topics: away, luggage, series 3, carry-on suitcase, travel accessories, product launch
## Away's viral moment, a decade ago
Away launched the Carry On suitcase in 2016 with a sleek polycarbonate design and an ejectable portable battery. It went viral and other bag makers quickly copied the smart luggage concept.
## The battery is gone, but the brand remains
Away is launching Series 3, its third generation luggage. The battery has not been available since 2023, but the features that attracted loyal customers remain, with focus on invisible tech.
## Why Away ditched the smart label
Sarah Amidi, Away's senior vice president of Brand, says the company never liked being called smart luggage. When the first Carry On launched, charging solutions were not ubiquitous, creating a travel pain point the battery solved.

> We didn't like to be called 'smart luggage'
## From disruptor to traditional maker
Away has become more of a traditional luggage maker than a disruptor. The company strengthened its carry-on through rigorous testing, and the Series 3 launch was delayed because it did not fully meet expectations.

> We design it to last the next 10 years
## Wheels and handles get the upgrade
Away improved two areas travelers often complain about. The WhisperGlide three sixty spinning wheels now have an extra ball bearing and improved threading. The StopLock Brakes system locks wheels even on slight inclines.
## The trolley handle gets five times more options
The Infinite Height Trolley handle offers five times more stopping points than before for travelers of varying heights. Hooks in the handle can hold up to eleven pounds and are handy for jackets, purses, or airport fast food.
## Colors, customization, and new bags
Series 3 comes in purple, chocolate, and chartreuse, with removable customizable handles and wheels. Away also unveiled the Signature Bags collection with a tote, weekender, commuter backpack, duffle, and underseat bags in lighter, softer nylon.
## Playing it safe, not groundbreaking
Away's new luggage does not offer anything groundbreaking. Many features are available in bags from other companies. But Away is leveraging its strength with a well-regarded product that already works, with tweaks to make it better.
## Key takeaway

Away launched Series 3 luggage without its signature ejectable battery, shifting from smart luggage gimmicks to refined traditional design and practical travel solutions.