Working Joe Travel: LEVEL8 Luggage Review
- 57 minutes ago
- 8 min read
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WHY DO A LEVEL8 LUGGAGE REVIEW
Randy and I have owned many types of luggage over the years. Some of our favorite brands include Tumi, Delsey, and eBags. We look for pieces that are functional, durable, secure, and increasingly – as we age – lightweight.
Our current collection of bags includes hardcover suitcases, carry-ons, and travel backpacks that we mix and match for each trip. For cruising and cold weather journeys we often use our full size and carry-on suitcases. For trips to warm weather climates and train journeys, we like to combine our carry-ons with the backpacks.
Our luggage takes a beating, and after a recent three week Alaska land and sea tour, we could see that the zippers and seams on some of our suitcases were starting to fray. So, when a representative from LEVEL8 contacted us to see if we would be interested in reviewing their Voyageur suitcase set, the timing felt right.
We were happy to partner with the company because we were familiar with LEVEL8’s reputation for producing durable and well-priced top-tier luggage. We wish to emphasize that although we were compensated for this review, all of the opinions are our own.
In this LEVEL8 luggage review we will explore a Voyageur suitcase set’s:
Exterior features: appearance, durability, ease of movement, security; and
·Interior features: compartments and zipper pockets
Hopefully, our review can help you decide if this luggage is right for you.
PACKING ESSENTIALS
For fun and stylish checked and carry-on hard cover suitcases, we rely on our Level-8 28” and Level-8 20” spinners.
Randy doesn’t use them, but I swear by segregating items into Compression Packing Cubes and Wet Bags.
For security, we place an Apple Air Tag in each bag, and keep a supply of RFID Blocking Sleeves on hand.
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WHAT IS LEVEL8 LUGGAGE
Founded in New York in 2008, LEVEL8 specializes in well-crafted travel gear built with premium materials. Their product line features stylish and sturdy suitcases, backpacks, and travel accessories. Operating as an online retailer, the company is headquartered in New York City; luggage is manufactured in China.
LEVEL8 offers customers high-end quality at more affordable prices. Core design features include ultra-smooth spinner wheels, ergonomic designs with spacious interiors, and resilient exteriors made with aluminum and German Makrolon® polycarbonate.
The company’s devotion to innovation, style, and sustainability has resulted in 18 international design awards over the past 8 years (including Red Dot, iF, and IDEA design awards).
LEVEL8 VOYAGEUR SET FIRST IMPRESSIONS
My first impression of the LEVEL8 Voyageur suitcases we received was that the set looked streamlined, sturdy, and polished.
The 28” and 20” suitcases arrived promptly, and were well packaged. Inside of the freight boxes, each of the cases came in a cloth drawstring bag (that I have saved for suitcase storage).
Randy and I liked the dark olive color and minimalist design (classy, not flashy). We also liked the textured finish, black accents knobs (for the bag to sit on when opened), and the top and side handles (for lifting). The design felt both understated and bold.
Straight away we were impressed with the smoothness and of the suitcase’s spinner wheels which rolled quietly over tile and brick. We were intrigued by the wide handle design which increased the amount of interior packing space – although we did question whether we would be able to “stack” a bag on top of either suitcase.
TRUSTED TRAVEL RESOURCES
LEVEL8 LUGGAGE REVIEW: VOYAGEUR SET 28” & 20”
For reference, we received our Voyageur hardcase luggage set (28” and 20”) several weeks ago. Thus far, we have taken the suitcases on an 8-day road trip, but have not yet flown with them.
EXTERIOR FEATURES
Appearance/Design
These hardshell suitcases have a modern, minimalist design that exudes understated elegance. The suitcases look substantial (although they are lightweight). The “micro-diamond” finish brings a rich texture to the dark olive color.
Durability/Weight
The checked (28”) and carry-on (20”) Voyageur suitcases are composed of German-made Makrolon®, a lightweight high-performance polycarbonate material. More than just an ordinary plastic, the aerospace grade material is designed to “pop-back” if dented.
On our road trip, the bags were subjected to repeated tosses in and out of a truck bed and hauled up and down stairs (dragged, not carried). They did receive a few scuffs, but so far nothing that could not be wiped away with a damp cloth. Based on the scuffs we got, I do anticipate the micro-diamond finish will scratch/scuff with wear-and-tear and airline handling.
The Voyageur suitcase zippers are rugged and zip easily along straight-aways. However, with the bags square 90’ corners, I found it necessary to slow down and align the bags’ two sides when zippering around corners.
In the market for a new suitcase? Click this link for a Level-8 28” and Level-8 20” spinner. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Ease of Movement
The spinner wheels on the Voyageur checked and carry-on cases are super-smooth (when the suitcases are empty, they will roll unaided with the slightest change in elevation). The 360’ spinner wheels are made with high-precision metal ball bearings.
When fully packed, the 28” suitcase rolled forward, backward, and sideways with excellent maneuverability. Much of the traveling we do involves wheeling bags over cobblestones and other uneven surfaces. Thus far, the bags performance gives me confidence it will handle these situations well.
A major design element on the Voyageur hard case luggage is its wide handles. By widening the suitcases handles, more force is applied to the corners of the bag when wheeling, resulting in a moving bag that is stable and easier to steer.
In addition to improved ergonomics, the wider handle creates more packing space in the luggage’s interior. In addition, the telescopic handle can be adjusted to a comfortable height for anyone rolling the suitcase. If you are someone who likes to “stack” your luggage, you will likely need to invest in a new luggage adapter for the wider handle.
Finally, a word about the handles placed on the top and sides of the suitcases: They are unobtrusive and blend well with the suitcase’s exterior. They are also hardy – and really helpful for lifting the bags (like into truck beds, train luggage racks, and airline carry-on compartments).
TRIP ESSENTIALS
For almost every travel destination, I find myself reaching for my Eddie Bauer Rainfoil Jacket, Frogg Toggs Hat, Merrell Hiking Boots, and Crocs Strappy Sandals (wear to dinner or the pool).
Other items I rely on include my Huk Sunglasses and Contigo Autoseal Water Bottle (no spills in the backpack).
But by far, my number one can’t-do-without essential is my Sony RX100 Compact Camera. It fits perfectly into a pocket. Or, mounted on a Mini-Tripod it slips into my Travelon Sling Bag.
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Security – TSA Approved Lock
Our Voyageur checked and carry-on bags are equipped with TSA-approved combination locks. The locks are designed to be opened by airport security so your luggage can be inspected without forced entry. This feature reduces damage to your belongings and bag.
We found the instructions on how to set up this security feature to be clear and easy to use.
INTERIOR FEATURES
Compartments
With no wasted space from internal handle bars, the flat-base interior of the LEVEL8 Voyageur series maximizes packing space. There are two major compartments in both the 28” and 20” bags. Each of these compartments closes with a zippered flap that holds your items in place.
A wonderful surprise for me, was the spaciousness of the 28”. For our road trip, I packed 6 pairs of pants, 2 sweatshirts, a rain jacket, 7 shirts, 2 dresses, PJs, a bathing suit and coverup, workout clothes, underthings, toiletries, 3 pairs of shoes, and various other items - with space left over.
I anticipate using this case for cold weather trips (when packing bulkier clothing) and cruises (when packing formal clothing). Also, I really appreciate that the 20” nests perfectly inside the 28” for compact storage when needed.
Zipper Pockets
As mentioned above, panels on both sides of the suitcase’s interiors zipper shut. On these panels there are built in pockets (including a dry/wet pocket). The zippered pockets are not deep, but they are just the right size for organizing trip documents, chargers, and other small items.
In the market for a new suitcase? Click this link for a Level-8 28” and Level-8 20” spinner. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
LEVEL8 LUGGAGE OPTIONS & PRICE
Standard Voyageur series colors include black, navy, and dark olive (with other seasonal limited edition options).
LEVEL8 Voyageur Luggage options including handle and wheels:
20'' Carry-On Overall: 21.3''H x 15.1''W x 9.8''D | 8.1 lbs | 43 L (3-5 days)
26'' Checked Overall: 27.3''H x 16.6''W x 13.3''D | 11.8 lbs | 93 L (5-7 days)
28'' Checked Overall: 29.1''H x 16.6''W x 13.3''D | 12.4 lbs | 99 L (7-10 days)
30'' Checked Overall: 32.1''H x 16.7''W x 13.3''D | 13.9 lbs | 105 L (10+ days)
Note: For most major airlines the 20” suitcase would meet the parameters of a carry-on item. However, it would not meet the definition of a carry-on for some airlines. Refer to the LEVEL8 website Airline Carry-On Guide for more information.
LEVEL8 Voyageur collection pricing generally runs around $230 for a carry-on piece and $300 for a check-in size suitcase. There is a special rate if you bundle a Voyageur 2 piece luggage set.
Shipping within the US and Canada is free (see website for international rates). Available LEVEL8 accessories that would pair well with the Voyageur series include packing cubes and a protective cover to protect your suitcase from scratches and dirt.
WARRANTY
The LEVEL8 limited lifetime warranty covers all functional aspects, including the shell, wheels, handles, and zippers.
The warranty covers only manufacturing defects and does not cover any damage caused by misuse, neglect, accidents, abrasion, exposure to extreme temperatures, solvents, acids, water, normal wear and tear or transport damage (by airlines for example). In the event that there is a warranty issue, they will either repair or replace the luggage for you.
WRAP UP: PROS & CONS
Pros
High quality construction at a mid-tier price – great value for the money
Modern, sleek aesthetic
Ergonomic wide handle design with increased interior space
High quality wheels and maneuverability
Durable space-age polycarbonate hard case shell
Variety of sizes, colors, and accessories
Cons
Exterior likely to scratch and scuff with wear and tear over time
Square corners slow zippering
20” carry-on is too big for some airlines
From Randy and my perspective, the pros of this fine luggage far outweigh the cons. This LEVEL8 Voyageur set meets all of our expectations; it is durable, functional, secure, and lightweight – and we love how it looks!
Hope you find this Voyageur LEVEL8 luggage review helpful.
Happy shopping and safe travels, Laura and Randy
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