Your luggage is one of the most important pieces of travel gear. Monos and Samsonite both make great suitcases, but they are very different brands with very different products.
I tested and rated a total of 26 suitcases from both brands and compared the differences using Travelfreak’s proprietary luggage rating system. By combining real-world testing and our data-driven research, I was able to look both subjectively and objectively at Monos vs Samsonite to determine where each brand excels.
Monos is a relatively new startup Canadian luggage company that makes sleek, minimalist suitcases for travelers who value premium materials, understated style and intuitive design. With an average overall score of 9.4, Monos is the highest scoring brand we’ve tested.
Samsonite, with an average overall score of 8.8, is a household name. This is the largest luggage brand in the world and they have been making suitcases for over a century. Samsonite has a wide product range, from budget-friendly to luxury suitcases, so they have something for every type of traveler.
If you’re deciding between Monos and Samsonite, I’ll go over the key differences between the two brands, compare their pros and cons, and highlight which luggage brand will best fit your needs.
Why you can trust us
Travelfreak’s editorial team has tested dozens of suitcases over the years, and we’ve learned a lot about separating a quality piece of luggage from an overpriced, bulky piece of plastic. We’ve tested and reviewed budget luggage, luxury suitcases and everything in between.
We know how difficult it can be to find the perfect suitcase, and we want to make the process easier for you. So our team of gear junkies and product engineers have developed the most comprehensive gear testing method.
We’ve tested and rated 11 Monos suitcases and 15 Samsonite suitcases, including carry-on and checked bags from both brands.
We evaluated each of these suitcases on 31 metrics across eight categories. We treated them all equally and rated them on the same standardized scale. This makes it easy for us (and you) to compare the pros and cons of each.
at a glance
Monos vs Samsonite: Quick Answers
- Durability: Monos luggage is overall more durable and well constructed than Samsonite.
- Price: Samsonite offers both budget-friendly and premium options, while Monos averages slightly more expensive.
- Warranty: Most Samsonite luggage has a 10-year warranty, while Monos has a lifetime warranty on every suitcase.
- Durability: Samsonite uses recycled materials for many models, but Monos is certified climate neutral and is a member of 1% for the Planet.
- Content: Monos uses high-quality polycarbonate across the board, while Samsonite uses the cheaper material on many suitcases.
- Design and style: Monos luggage is modern, minimal and streamlined. Samsonite suitcases come in a wide variety, from conservative to high-tech.
- Internal Organization: The Monos has a more streamlined and intuitive interior setup, but Samsonite’s premium models have more pockets, removable organizers and systems to keep your stuff organized.
- Expandability: Both the Monos and the Samsonite have expandable suitcase models.
- Wheels: The Monos use wheels that are smoother, quieter and more durable than most Samsonite luggage.
- Handle: Monos luggage handles are more adjustable and stronger than Samsonite handles.
- Color Options: Monos luggage has more color choices than Samsonite.
Monos vs Samsonite: Which Should You Buy?
Buy Monos if you…
- is a frequent traveler.
- A digital nomad or long-term traveler.
- Primarily takes domestic flights within the US.
- Give preference to aesthetics and modern design.
- Concerned about purchasing sustainability and eco-friendly products.
Buy Samsonite if you…
- Being on a tight budget.
- Often travel internationally on airlines with strict size and weight limits.
- Travel less often.
- Need luggage for a cruise or summer vacation.
- Luggage is required to carry suits, dresses or other formal clothing.
Material and quality
After testing both brands of suitcases, the Monos scored significantly higher for build quality: 9.2 vs Samsonite’s 7.9 build quality score. The short answer is this: if you want durable, well-built luggage, you’ll be happier with the Monos.
Of course, the short answer is not the whole picture. Samsonite makes some high-quality goods. Their high-end models (eg stride, ProxisAnd Cosmolite lines) are made in Europe and are impressively durable and well-crafted suitcases. I would say that these particular models are even more durable than the Monos, but you will pay more for that premium quality.
Where Samsonite falls short is with their mid-range and budget-friendly models. These use cheaper materials (such as ABS and polypropylene), and the components are smaller and more breakable.
On the other hand, every Monos suitcase I tested was solid, with a high-quality polycarbonate shell, smooth-rolling wheels, and a handle that didn’t rattle.
One issue with Monos is that the hardshell shows scratches and scuffs easily. It’s only cosmetic, but getting your new suitcase back from baggage claim is a little frustrating as if it’s been through a war zone. Luckily, it includes a magic eraser that does a surprisingly good job of removing scuffs.
It’s also worth noting that Samsonite sells both hardside and softside goods, while Monos only has hardside goods. Hardside luggage is more protective, but softside suitcases will never crack.
Design and features
Monos makes all their goods with a very similar design. Each Monos suitcase is a modern, minimalist hardshell with a simple feature set. The only difference between the different models is the size and some different features.
Monos designs their suitcases to be simple, straightforward and intuitive. Compared to most Samsonite luggage, the Monos is a bit more streamlined. They don’t give you more bells and whistles than you actually need. I especially like how streamlined and functional Monos carry-on is luggage.
Monos scored an average of 8.7 for ease of use, while Samsonite scored slightly lower at 8.2. Where Monos is simple and intuitive, some Samsonite accessories are a bit more complicated. If you want a no-fuss suitcase that is extremely easy to pack and use, the Monos is a better choice.
That said, if you’re interested in high-tech features or innovative design, Samsonite has more to offer. Samsonite has a wide range of suitcases, and their designs are very diverse. You can find models with removable packing cubes, toiletry bags and garment folders; Multiple exterior pockets, and even a built-in LED light.
The Samsonite scored 8.9 for functionality (slightly higher than the Monos at 8.5) because you can get a Samsonite suitcase with more advanced features.
Essentially, Monos luggage does the essentials really well, but Samsonite’s innovative design has more extras.
Value for your money
If you’re on a budget and trying to get the best bang for your buck, Samsonite is probably a better option. They have more affordable goods, and you can often find better deals, especially if you shop in a physical store or on Amazon.
On average, Samsonite luggage scored 8.6 for price-to-performance. Monos scored only 6.7.
Monos luggage is definitely more expensive on average, but you get amazing value for your money. Monos uses premium materials. This Monos carry-on It’s the least expensive suitcase we’ve ever tested that scores above 9.0 for build quality.
If you travel a lot, it’s definitely worth investing a little more money in a Monos suitcase.
Warranty and purchase experience
Monos also offers you a 100-day trial so you can review your own Monos luggage at home and make sure it fits your lifestyle. You can pack it, drive it, wheel it, pick it up – just keep it indoors, and if there’s a problem, you can return it.
Monos have a lifetime warranty that covers any functional damage to the wheels, shell or handles. However, they do not cover cosmetic damage such as scratches or dents.
Samsonite’s 10-year warranty is reliable, but more limited than the Monos. Still, 10 years is a long time, and Samsonite has a good reputation for upholding warranty claims, so I wouldn’t be too concerned.
Both brands have great customer service and build goods that are meant to last. Neither warranty is that good Briggs and RileyBut they are also more affordable.
Brand impact and sustainability
If you care about sustainability and supporting companies that are improving their impact on the planet, Monos is a better choice than Samsonite. Monos scored 8.5 for brand impact and Samsonite only scored 6.2.
Both brands use recycled materials, but Monos is climate neutral certified and a 1% for the Planet member.
Yes, Samsonite is starting to implement more sustainability initiatives, but these third-party certifications put Monos on a different level.
Final thoughts
Ultimately, the choice between Monos and Samsonite luggage comes down to where you’ll be traveling, how often you’ll be traveling, and what you prioritize in your luggage.
If you travel often and want to invest in a stylish, high-quality suitcase, you should buy Monos luggage that will get a lot of use. City-hopping, work trips and long-term travel are right up Monos’ alley. If you’re someone who’s always on the go, I think you’ll love the Monos’ blend of style and practicality.
The Samsonite is a better choice if you’re a more casual traveler who can’t justify buying the best luggage, but still wants a functional and durable suitcase. Most of the Samsonite stuff costs significantly less than the Monos and still works really well. I personally believe that Samsonite is the perfect choice for checked luggage for week-long (or longer) vacations where you will be staying at one destination for an extended period of time.
There is an important exception here. Monos carry-on luggage is technically too big for many budget international airlines, but Samsonite has the whole range. Especially sized carry-ons for international travel. I highly recommend doing some research into carry-on size limits before you buy a suitcase.
Both Monos and Samsonite make amazing goods, and you can’t go wrong with either. If you need a little more guidance on choosing a specific model, check out our guides to finding the best carry-on luggage and the best checked luggage.
Monos vs Samsonite FAQs
What goods are comparable to monos?
Is Samsonite luggage worth it?
Samsonite The luggage is definitely worth it if you want a practical suitcase at a great price.
Does monos scratch easily?
unfortunately, Monos The goods scuff and show scratches easily. This does not affect the function, but it is annoying.
Why is Samsonite so popular?
Samsonite The goods are popular because they are stylish, affordable and available everywhere.
Is Samsonite luggage made in China?
Samsonite Manufactures goods in China, India and Hungary.