When it comes to luggage, you want something that’s durable, stylish, and functional. Both Monos and Arlo Skye tick those boxes, but they each have their own strengths and weaknesses. As millennial-friendly brands, they also bring a dose of cool to the typically stodgy luggage market.
But which one is right for your next trip? Here’s an in-depth comparison of Monos and Arlo Skye luggage.
| Feature | Monos | Arlo Skye |
| Styles | Carry-on, checked suitcase, duffle bag, backpack | Carry-on, checked suitcase, backpack, accessories |
| Materials | Durable polycarbonate shell + vegan leather | ABS hard shell + vegan leather |
| Weight | Lightweight | Light-medium weight |
| Wheels | Double spinner | Double spinner |
| Charging capabilities | Built-in USB charging port and battery | No USB charging |
| TSA lock | Yes | Yes |
| Size options | Carry-on, checked, and extended sizing options | Standard carry-on and checked sizes |
| Warranty | Limited lifetime warranty | Limited 5-year warranty |
| Prices | $245+ | $195+ |
Monos Carry On Luggage Review
Monos makes three polycarbonate suitcase lines: Check-In, Check-In Plus, and Air.
The Check-In line offers carry-on and checked sizes in sage green, black, or sand colors.
The hard shells resist scuffs and scratches with vegan leather handles and zipper pulls.
Interior-wise, there’s a mesh divider pad and zippered pockets for organization. Smooth-rolling double spinner wheels make transportation easy.
And the built-in USB charger and ejectable 10,000 mAh battery is perfect for keeping devices juiced on the go.
The Check-In Plus line takes things up a notch with a lighter polycarbonate shell and vegan leather front panel. You can choose from rich camel and black colorways. This premium line only comes in carry-on and standard checked baggage dimensions.
Finally, the limited edition Air line features a textured polycarbonate shell and matching vegan leather front panel. With carry-on, checked, and oversized dimensions, it’s great for longer trips and packing lots of stuff.
Pros
- Sleek, minimalist design
- Durable polycarbonate shell
- Vegan leather accents
- Smooth-rolling double spinner wheels
- Multiple size options
- Built-in USB charging port and battery
Cons
- Expensive, especially for checked sizes
- Shell can still scratch if roughed up
- Carry-on can be heavy when battery is inserted
Arlo Skye Carry On Luggage Review
Arlo Skye makes classic polycarbonate suitcases combined with pops of color and bold prints. They offer both carry-on and checked size hard-shell spinner suitcases.
The Original Check-In line features vibrant hues like ruby red, navy, and green. The signature midnight color has black ABS hardsides with a bit of glitter hidden inside. ABS plastic is very durable but slightly heavier than polycarbonate.
For fun limited editions, Arlo Skye partners with brands like Star Wars, Net-A-Porter, and celebrities like Lea Michele. Recent designs showcase character prints, leather embossed textures, and metallic finishes.
Inside every Arlo Skye suitcase, there’s a compression board and zippered mesh compartment for organization. The vegan leather handle features a protective neoprene underside for comfort. And the matching luggage tag can be monogrammed for personalization.
There’s also the lightweight Skye Zipper Carry-On made from Makrolon polycarbonate. With spinner wheels, TSA lock, and removable charger ready battery, it’s a solid compact companion.
Pros
- Trendy colors and prints
- Vegan leather details
- Lightweight spinner carry-ons
- Hardshell ABS or polycarbonate
- Personalization options
Cons
- Prints may show dirt over time
- Standard sizing only
- ABS plastic is heavy for checked sizes
- No USB charging port built-in
Size and Spec Comparison
One key difference is the size variety Monos offers versus Arlo Skye’s more standard options.
For example, Monos has a mid-size Extended Check-In suitcase that’s ideal for longer trips.
At 11% larger capacity than standard checked baggage, you can fit more without having to check an additional bag.
Monos also offers a 40% smaller Air Overhead Bag for weekend getaways. The compact 20″ x 13″ x 9″ bag meets almost all domestic carry-on size restrictions.
On the other hand, Arlo Skye only has regulation carry-on and checked sizes to choose from. Their bags prioritize bold style over versatility.
In terms of materials, Monos uses very durable polycarbonate shells while Arlo Skye mixes premium ABS and polycarbonate. Monos cases tend to be lighter but Arlo Skye features vibrant colors and prints.
Both brands have similar interior organization systems and smooth spinner wheels. But a standout Monos feature is the USB charging port that can recharge phones and other devices on the go. For Arlo Skye suitcases, you need to purchase a separate USB battery pack.
So when choosing between the two brands, factor in preferred colors, weight, sizes needed, and charging abilities.
Cost Comparison
When it comes to pricing, Monos bags start around $245 for a carry-on and go up to $495 for their largest checked suitcases. Their small weekender bags start at $95.
Arlo Skye’s polycarbonate carry-on is also $245 but their classic ABS carry-ons start at $375.
Their checked suitcases run between $450-$550 for the bold colors and prints.
Backpacks and accessories start around $125.
Both brands charge premium prices justified by the sleek style and quality.
But Monos tends to offer more bang for your buck when you factor in all the features and sizing versatility. The integrated battery and charging alone is a huge perk.
Also Read: Comparison of TUMI And DELSEY Luggage.
Style Comparison
Monos definitely leads in minimalist, versatile style options that work for business or leisure. Their muted colorways keep things low key while the vegan leather and textured shell adds visual interest.
Arlo Skye takes more risks with vibrant colors and adventurous prints. Their fun collaborations showcase creativity and lend unique personalities to each collection. But the patterns make spec stains more visible and may look dated eventually.
It comes down to personal preferences – chic neutral or spirited dazzle? Understated refinement or bold panache? Both brands nail down premium details but simply appeal to different aesthetics.
Durability Comparison
When it comes to durability, both brands rate highly for their hard-shell builds and premium materials.
Monos’ polycarbonate cases are dent and scratch resistant while retaining lightness.
Arlo Skye ABS hardshells can withstand rugged handling despite the extra weight.
One advantage of Monos is the limited lifetime warranty that covers manufacturer defects forever.
Arlo Skye only provides five years of limited coverage.
In user testing across reviewers though, both brands show impressive resilience against scrapes, drops, and typical travel conditions. The vegan leather trim scuffs before the shells show signs of damage. Some users even took Monos bags on year-long round the world trips without issues.
So both can stand up well to heavy use but Monos justifies its higher price with better materials and warranty protections.
Celebrity Endorsements
As newer luggage brands catering to young sophisticates, Monos and Arlo Skye utilize influencer campaigns to build hype.
Monos collabed with fashion influencer Danielle Bernstein on a neutral-toned collection that exemplified Bernstein’s trademark style. Celebrity chef Kwame Onwuachi and R&B singer Monica have also been spotted traveling with Monos luggage.
Arlo Skye takes celebrity partnerships to the next level. Their recent Jonas Brothers collab resulted in three bold patterned suitcases inspired by the band members. A Star Wars edition also debuted with groovy prints of legendary characters and ships.
Individual celebrities like Jessica Alba, Sophia Bush, Lea Michele, and Selma Blair have all been featured on social media touting Arlo Skye bags. The brand even has a suitcase wrapped with a giant photo of Oprah approved as carry on size!
So while Monos opts for more subtle partnerships in alignment with their brand, Arlo Skye attracts big names to show off their loud luggage. For influencer fans, those names alone may justify splurging on the bags.
Also Read: Comparison of SwissGear And TravelPro Luggage.
FAQ About Monos and Arlo Skye Luggage
For travelers seeking a fun, eye-catching suitcase, Arlo Skye is a great choice. The colorful premium designs roll smoothly and keep belongings secure. With celebrity endorsements and collabs, they offer status and uniqueness.
The higher prices are justified by features like vegan leather components, durable ABS or polycarbonate shells, TSA approved locks, and interior organization. Frequent fliers who check multiple or overweight bags may want a suitcase with more durability and warranty coverage. But for standard use, Arlo Skye holds up fantastically.
Yes, Monos makes excellent luggage constructed from premium materials like vegan leather and lightweight polycarbonate. Both independent tests and customer reviews praise their durability against cracks, scratches, and typical baggage handling.
Monos cases are also packed with well-designed features for travelers. Double spinner wheels, TSA approved locks,Charging ports, and interior pockets check all the functional boxes. And their minimalist chic styles transition seamlessly between business and personal trips.
The bigger issue is whether Monos quality and features justify premium prices starting around $245. But for savvy travelers who pack lots of electronics or take longer trips, the integrated battery power alone is a lifesaver.
While celebrities have access to luxury luggage from brands like Rimowa and Tumi, newer brands like Monos and Arlo Skye are becoming popular. Stars like the Jonas Brothers, Jessica Alba, and Lea Michele have partnered with Arlo Skye while influencers like Danielle Bernstein rep Monos.
Celebs also love matt black away suitcases for their sleekness and smartphone charging capacities. Louis Vuitton designer monogram luggage is another favorite flex. Ultimately stars can afford high-end and custom luggage but seem drawn towards younger brands aligned with their aesthetics.
Yes, all Monos suitcases come with TSA-approved combination locks. That means TSA agents can manually or electronically inspect and reopen bags with universal master keys without damaging the lock.
So you can feel assured that checkpoint security can access your Monos bag if needed. But only you retain the combination code to reopen it afterwards, unlike default strap locks susceptive to tampering. That way, belongings inside your Monos luggage stay secure and untouched by anyone else.
Also Read: Differences Between Travelpro Crew And Maxlite Luggage.
Final Verdict
Here’s the final breakdown to help decide between these two popular luggage brands.
Monos is ideal for style-driven yet pragmatic travelers who prioritize:
- Sleek, sophisticated aesthetic
- Superior durability
- Lightweight mobility
- Extended sizing options
- Charging capabilities
Arlo Skye is perfect for free-spirit adventurers who value:
- Playful, headturning personality
- Premium colorful designs
- Trendy collaborations
- Vegan ethics and sustainability
Both brands create quality, versatile luggage perfect for jetsetters. Monos leads in resilience and performance features while Arlo Skye offers dazzling flair. Ultimately your travel priorities and personal style should point towards the best fit.
Whichever you choose, both Monos and Arlo Skye deliver chic travel style that’s built to last. With thoughtful organization and silky smooth mobility, it’s luggage you’ll love traveling with for years.
