Away Pivots to 'Invisible Tech' With Series 3 Launch

Away is shifting its product strategy from disruptive "smart luggage" to a focus on "invisible tech" with the launch of its Series 3 luggage and Signature Bags collection, as Wired first reported.

Sarah Amidi, Away’s senior vice president of Brand, told Wired that the company is prioritizing features that solve specific traveler friction points rather than adding unnecessary weight or reducing capacity. This marks a departure from the brand's 2016 origins, which featured a pioneering ejectable portable battery—a feature Amidi notes was a response to a specific travel pain point of the time. Away luggage has not featured the battery since 2023.

Instead of a visual redesign, the Series 3 introduces mechanical improvements to the wheels and handle. According to Wired, the new WhisperGlide 360 spinning wheels feature improved threading and an additional ball bearing for quieter, smoother movement. The line also incorporates the StopLock Brakes system, which allows users to lock wheels via a switch in the trolley handle cavity to prevent sliding on inclines.

Further refinements include the Infinite Height Trolley handle, which provides five times more stopping points for better personalization, and integrated hooks capable of holding 11 pounds each. Other updates include a Bluetooth tracker pouch, redesigned interior covers that open outward, and more pockets.

Alongside the luggage, Away introduced the Signature Bags collection. Amidi told Wired these nylon bags are now lighter and softer, featuring updated hardware and a laptop compartment moved to the exterior for faster airport security access.