If you follow me on Instagram, you already know I’m a travel addict. If I’m not flying somewhere far, I’m at least off on a weekend escape or a work trip abroad. In 25+ years of traveling, I’ve learned that good luggage is equally important as your itinerary – because chaos starts when your bag quits. Recently, a Level8 suitcase arrived at my doorstep, and instead of saying “the rest is history,” I’ll share my honest Level8 suitcase review.

I hadn’t heard of Level8 before, but when they reached out, I checked their website first. They’re based in New York, ship worldwide, and offer free shipping to the US, UK, CA, and EU. Since my big Samsonite suitcase had just broken (I swear to my dog!), I agreed to test 2 suitcases from their collection. I went with their largest model, the Voyageur Checked 30’’, and the Luminous Carry-On 20’’. I took the first one on a work trip 5 days later, so this review focuses mainly on the Voyageur Checked 30’’.

Delivery

The suitcases arrived in big cardboard boxes in less than a week. They came in perfect condition, wrapped only in a white cover – already a small hint at their quality. After all, they probably wouldn’t dare ship such expensive luggage just like that.

Style & Colors

When it comes to luggage, I want it all: style, quality, and something that feels like me. Level8’s modern, clean lines instantly caught my eye. The soft colors are timeless – the kind you can hardly get bored of. As a woman, I’d love more variety, but fewer choices mean less time wasted.

In person, the colors of both suitcases are even better. The minty and olive green are simply beautiful. Hats down, Level8 for the color palette! As for the design, I love simple, clean shapes that don’t feel dated, and these two fit me perfectly.

Dimensions & Volume

The sizes are a bit different from what I’m used to, and the European specs translate roughly like this:

• Voyageur Checked 30’’: 81.5 cm x 42.5 cm x 33.8 cm / 6.3 kg / 105 L
• Luminous Carry-On 20’’: 54.5 cm x 36.8 cm x 23.5 cm / 3.5 kg / 40 L

The Voyageur is similar in size and volume to my usual checked luggage, while the carry-on has slightly less volume and isn’t expandable. Its measurements easily fit low-cost airline overhead compartments, but the smaller volume is a minor downside. It’s perfect for short day trips when you don’t need bulky luggage – for example, extra pairs of shoes. But it’s really pretty, so I just had to take it. 😀

Functionality

Both suitcases have two compartments, each separated by a zippered cover – something I’ve never seen before. All my other suitcases only have one. It’s a super useful feature, letting you pack way more efficiently.

Like most modern luggage, both have 360° spinner wheels. Easy to take for granted, but honestly, one of the best inventions for airport maneuvering. They glide so smoothly, you instantly want to roll them over and over, just for fun.

The telescopic handle on the Voyageur 30’’ is the best I’ve ever used. I worried it might feel short, but once upright, it hits the perfect height. Unlike my other suitcases, it also has three handles, so you can lift it from different angles – super handy for car trunks, trains, or airport belts.

Zipping & Locking

Both models have the zipper-based closing system. This feels unusual for larger luggage, and it takes a few extra seconds to close compared to suitcases with clasps. The zipper ends at a simple and handy lock system – similar to my carry-ons. Not sure how this will work on the long turn, but then again, any lock can jam. I’ve had the same with Samsonite, where the handle mechanism sticks with frequent use.

Durability

At first touch, I was a bit skeptical – especially about the large suitcase, since the outer shell felt slightly more flexible and thinner than the ones I have at home. I was a little nervous to use it for such a long trip and for quite important luggage – I was heading on a work trip and had to bring quite a few samples back with me.

Voyageur Checked 30’’ in Action

Looks and functionality are one thing, but real-life performance is another.

The Level8 Voyageur 30” went to Chicago half-empty, and despite its relatively soft shell, it didn’t arrive deformed. On the return flight, fully packed, it bulged a bit near the zipper – just enough to make me wonder if it would survive. It did, perfectly. Shape on return: flawless. Zipper and lock: no complaints.

Another key factor is how it rolls through the airport. In one word: the Voyageur 30’’ is POETRY. The handle is compact, the suitcase stable, and it doesn’t tip despite its height. I can’t praise the effortless glide enough – when you’re tired and the bag is heavy, it’s a little slice of heaven worth every penny.

The only complaint

There’s one thing that gave me a tiny bruise on my heart (and I only say this about things I really like) – the stains and scratches. With the delicate minty shade and sensitive material, some areas already show marks from airport handling. Even the black plastic trim shows wear, which I hadn’t expected on the very first trip.

Truth be told, scratches happen on all suitcases, no matter how carefully you handle them… unless you wrap them, which I never do. Maybe there’s one that’s bulletproof, but you’d likely pay twice as much.

Level8  – Pros and Cons at a glance

Pros:

• Easy to maneuver: a 10
• Smooth rolling: a perfect 10 (11 actually)
• Stylish design and modern colors: a 10 in my eyes
• Two functional compartments for organized packing: a handy 10
• Three handles for versatile lifting: a handy 10
• Relatively lightweight: a weak 9 (with luggage, each gram counts)

Cons:

• Slightly too soft shell on the Voyageur 30’’ at first touch
• Delicate materials can show scuffs and marks from airport handling
• Carry-on Luminous 20’’ has a smaller capacity and isn’t expandable

Final Thoughts

All in all, the Level8 Voyageur Checked was a pleasant surprise. I expected it to be just another trendy thing, but it really isn’t*. What I love most is the easy handling, smooth rolling, and stylish appearance. That said, I’d probably choose a darker color next time to hide marks better.

Oh, and not so casually – the taxi driver, who sees hundreds of suitcases every month, said: “Nice suitcase.” They usually comment on dresses or shoes. A nice suitcase? This was the first one. 🙂

If my Level8 suitcase review has convinced you to give it a go, check them out and use code ANDA15 for a 15% discount. Have fun and safe travels!

*Once again, this review is based on just one round-trip flight, so I can’t yet give a full verdict on long-term quality. If anything changes significantly, I’ll update the blog.