This article is sponsored by LEVEL8 which provided the Pro Carry-On with Laptop Pocket 20” to test. However, all opinions expressed in this LEVEL8 luggage review are my own.
Finding a piece of luggage that is durable, comfortable and keeps your stuff dry and safe is one of the holy grails of travel. But as it can also be a significant financial outlay, choosing the right suitcase is no mean feat.
Take it from me. In more than three decades of travelling, I’ve invested in an array of backpacks and suitcases. Whilst some of these were great buys, others were poor choices, sacrificing quality to cut costs.
The bottom line is that it can pay to invest in a decent piece of luggage. But which brand of luggage should you choose?
LEVEL8 is a US-based premium suitcase brand, which has recently started free shipping to the UK. Find out if this is the right choice for you in my honest review of LEVEL8’s Pro Carry-On with Laptop Pocket 20”.
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The LEVEL8 Pro Carry-On is an award-winning durable piece of hard-shell luggage for those looking for a stylish cabin suitcase with excellent functionality and stacks of interior space.
Check the price and buy online here using the code theflashpacker10 for 10% off any LEVEL8 purchase.
Who is LEVEL8?
LEVEL8 is a New York City-based company that produces stylish and functional suitcases made from durable, quality materials. It offers premium luggage to accommodate most types of travellers, specialising in hard-shell suitcases in a range of sizes.
Where Can You Buy LEVEL8 Luggage?
The easiest way to buy LEVEL8 luggage is through their official website.
Shipping is free if you live in the United States (except for Alaska and Hawaii), Canada, European Union countries or the UK. If you are not happy with your purchase, you can return it within 7 days.
A second way to make your purchase is through LEVEL8’s Amazon store.
When I checked, prices were similar on both platforms but it’s worth comparing the two. Remember that you get a 10% discount if you purchase your luggage on the LEVEL8 website using the code theflashpacker10.
It is worth noting that the warranties on LEVEL8 suitcases kick in automatically if you purchase your luggage on the official site. If you purchase through a reseller, you will need to email them to activate this warranty.
Benefits of a Hard-Shell Suitcase
Hard-shell luggage is the best choice for protecting your more fragile belongings from damage.
Its rigid frame will keep your breakables safe, whether it’s that cheeky bottle of Barolo from Italy or the exquisite ceramic bowl from Kyoto.
Also, hard-case luggage is more water-resistant than soft-sided luggage. If, like me, you’ve ever had to dry out clothes from a backpack that has been exposed to the elements, you’ll know what I mean.
Furthermore, hard-shell luggage is easier to keep clean. You simply have to wipe the surface.
Why You Should Choose a Carry-On Suitcase
Nine times out of ten I travel with carry-on luggage, even on two-week trips.
This not only eliminates the need to queue to check in your bag, but you can also speed through the airport like a travel ninja. Gone is the anxiety about your luggage not being there to greet you on the other side, or being pummelled by baggage handlers.
LEVEL8 Pro Carry-On with Laptop Pocket 20”: Specifications
The LEVEL8 Pro Carry-On 20” is a hard-shell suitcase that complies with the size requirements for cabin baggage for most major airlines. However, I always recommend double-checking with your airline before you fly.
Let’s start by taking a look at a few facts and figures.
LEVEL8 PRO CARRY-ON FACTS & FIGURES
- Capacity: 35 L
- Weight: 9.3 lbs (4.2 kg)
- Dimensions: 14.5”L x 9.3”W x 21.6”H
- Water resistant
- Available colours: Black, grey and navy
How I Tested the LEVEL8 Pro Carry-On with Laptop Pocket 20″
I put this piece of luggage through its paces on a week-long trip to Belgium. If there’s anything that is a robust test for a wheeled suitcase, it’s those cobblestone streets of Ghent.
Initial impressions
The LEVEL8 Pro Carry-On with Laptop Pocket 20” was delivered in a sturdy box, wrapped in a white dust bag, which is a welcome high-end touch.
Attached to one of the handles was a card providing instructions on how to set the TSA lock.
It is certainly a sleek and stylish piece of luggage, in keeping with my travel style.
Build quality
The build quality of the LEVEL8 Pro Carry-On is exceptional.
It is crafted from aerospace-grade Bayer Makrolon®, a hard shell material that is light, durable and water-resistant. No flimsiness here; it feels very robust and high-end.
The adjustable-height telescopic handle is made from a lightweight aluminium alloy.
The 360-degree spinner wheels are very impressive. They allow the suitcase to glide smoothly and quietly along pavements and cope with those Belgian cobblestone streets.
But watch out. These wheels are so smooth that the merest touch will propel the case forward. On more than one occasion I had to reign my luggage back in as it took on a life of its own across the train carriage.
Design features that I loved
Laptop pocket
Something that distinguishes this suitcase from others in LEVEL8’s luggage range is its outside laptop pocket.
For me, this is an essential design feature of a piece of luggage. Not so much for stowing a laptop – although that can be useful – but to allow easy access to essential travel documents.
The laptop pocket of the LEVEL8 Pro Carry-On is secured with a robust Velcro strap and has two smaller pockets.
Built-in TSA-approved lock
This is another awesome feature of this piece of luggage.
No more fumbling around with external locks. Set this TSA-approved lock with your personal code – super easy to do thanks to the included instructions – and it locks both the main suitcase compartment and the laptop pocket.
Device charging port
Although I didn’t have a chance to test this feature, there’s a built-in USB port that allows you to quickly connect your electronic devices to your power bank in the interior compartment.
Inside the LEVEL8 Pro Carry-On 20”
Inside, the suitcase is lined with high-quality grey fabric. The design of the suitcase’s main compartment makes the most of its 35-litre capacity.
You secure your belongings with compression traps on one side.
The other side of the luggage is a compartment that is fully enclosed by a zip-around cover, which has smaller pockets on its face. This is so useful for keeping your belongings organised.
LEVEL8 Luggage Warranty
LEVEL8 offers a lifetime warranty on the Pro Carry-On 20” that covers manufacturing defects. As you would expect, this warranty does not cover repairs resulting from carrier damage, misuse or neglect of the product or wear and tear.
Pros of the LEVEL8 Pro Carry-On
Here’s what I loved about this piece of luggage.
- Lightweight for a hard-shell suitcase
- Carry-on dimensions
- Generous capacity
- Manoeuvrability
- Stylish looking
- Easy access to documents via laptop pocket
- In-built TSA lock
- Easy to wipe clean
Cons of the LEVEL8 Pro Carry-On
In all honesty, there’s not much I would change about this suitcase, but here are a few things to consider.
- As the Pro Carry-On has a matte finish, scuffs may show with repeated use. If this is a concern, consider a LEVEL8 case with a textured finish, such as the Textured Carry-On 20” or Road Runner Carry-on with Laptop Pocket 20”
- The three colours available may not be to everybody’s tastes. If you prefer more vibrant colours, take a look at the Matte Carry-On 20” or Voyageur Carry-On 20”
But perhaps you are someone who is able or doesn’t want to travel light. If that is the case, the Pro Carry-On may not be big enough for you and you’ll be better off considering a larger suitcase.
My recommendation is the LEVEL8 Luminous Textured Check In 24”, which I also own. This lightweight suitcase shares the build quality and stylish appearance of the Pro Carry On, but has more space for your belongings. It’s perfect for a 2-week trip or longer.
Find out more in my review of the LEVEL8 Luminous Textured Check In 24”.
Is LEVEL8 Luggage Worth Buying?
I was so impressed with this suitcase that it is now my go-to piece of luggage for shorter trips.
My initial concern that it wouldn’t equal the capacity and functionality of my beloved Osprey Fairview Wheels 36 was completely unfounded. There was plenty of packing room for a week’s trip, with spare capacity to bring back delicious chocolates from Bruges.
Yes; it’s not cheap. But, there again, good things often come at a price.
I hope this LEVEL8 luggage review has helped you decide if this is the right hard-shell suitcase for you. Remember that if you order your luggage here and use the exclusive promo code theflashpacker10 at checkout, you’ll get 10% off any purchase.
About Bridget
Bridget Coleman has been a passionate traveller for more than 30 years. She has visited 70+ countries, most as a solo traveller.
Articles on this site reflect her first-hand experiences.
To get in touch, email her at hello@theflashpacker.net or follow her on social media.