As an avid budget traveler, I’m always seeking out affordable luggage that still offers durability and functionality. The Samsonite Renew caught my eye as a potential carry-on under $100 that could fit my needs.
In this review, I’ll share my hands-on testing experience with the Renew carry-on. Read on for details on the interior and exterior features, performance, pros and cons, and whether it makes a practical budget pick for frequent travelers.
Overview of the Samsonite Renew Carry-On
The Samsonite Renew is a softside carry-on spinner made from recycled PET fabric intended to be environmentally friendly. It has an exterior dimension of 22” x 14” x 9”, allowing it to meet many carry-on size restrictions. The large main compartment has a capacity of 40 liters.
At 6.7 lbs, the Renew is reasonably lightweight for a budget-friendly bag focused on maximum capacity. Aesthetically, it features a quilted diamond pattern on the exterior available in muted colors like burgundy, navy and charcoal that don’t show dirt readily.
My initial hands-on impressions were positive about the exterior durability, large capacity interior, and smooth dual spinner wheels at this sub-$100 price point. But I had some concerns about potential fragility over time with heavy use.
Review of Features and Performance
Interior Storage and Organization
Inside the U-shaped lid, you’ll find one large main compartment with adjustable hold-down straps on one side and two zippered compartments on the other to help separate items. There’s an additional smaller zippered pocket against the back panel for quick access items.
I was pleasantly surprised to fit 5-7 days worth of casual clothes and toiletries without feeling crammed, though packing cubes would help maximize the space for longer trips. The straps did a decent job securing items in place.
Exterior Durability and Maneuverability
While not as indestructible feeling as a hardside, the diamond-patterned recycled PET fabric held up admirably to my real-world packing habits. Despite some rough baggage handling, it emerged without any ripped seams, significant scuffing, or broken parts.
The two spinner wheels rolled smoothly both horizontally and vertically. I was able to easily maneuver it one-handed through airport walkways, hotel lobbies, and train stations even when loaded down. The adjustable gel handles provided a comfortable grip.
There’s a TSA-approved combination lock integrated into the main zipper pulls and a front expandable compartment for some extra room. The zippers all functioned reliably without catching. And the minimal exterior pockets reduce the potential for breakage over time.
Pros and Cons From My Experience
Pros
- Surprisingly durable recycled PET fabric
- Roomy 40L storage capacity
- Smooth dual spinner wheels
- Multiple interior organizational compartments
- TSA-approved lock for security
- Affordable price under $100
Cons
- No dedicated laptop sleeve
- Not 100% guaranteed to fit all carry-on allowances when expanded
- Limited padding/support in shoulder straps
- Only available in three muted colors
- May not hold up as well long-term compared to higher-priced luggage
Is This a Good Carry-On for Budget Travelers?
The Samsonite Renew meets the needs of certain types of budget-conscious travelers who will appreciate its advantages:
- Those wanting maximum capacity at a low price point
- People who pack heavy and need a roomy main compartment
- Casual and leisure travelers not checking bags
- Anyone seeking a practical affordable spinner bag
- Those who don’t want to baby delicate fabrics or features
However, it may not be ideal for minimalist packers wanting lots of compartments or business travelers needing a laptop sleeve. The long-term durability is also unproven compared to pricier brands. But overall, it hits a sweet spot of price, performance, and practicality.
My Final Verdict After Testing
After taking the budget-friendly Samsonite Renew on several trips as my sole carry-on bag, I’m satisfied with its performance given the very reasonable price.
The PET fabric proved more resilient than anticipated and the spinner wheels handled different surfaces smoothly. I appreciated the large capacity despite the smaller overall size. And the TSA-approved lock gave peace of mind when checking it at the gate.
For travelers wanting an affordable softside carry-on that can fit a week’s worth of belongings and take a beating, the Renew carries out its promise. While pricier bags will likely last longer, the Renew is a great budget pick for casual trips where checking a bag would be inconvenient. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it to fellow travelers watching their wallets yet needing maximum functionality.
Conclusion
While it likely won’t last through years of rugged adventures like higher-end brands, the Surprisingly durable Samsonite Renew carry-on provides excellent value for budget-focused travelers wanting practicality. If you pack light and treat it gently, this bag could be a savvy pick that goes the distance.
