There are a few things in life you should spend money on, and good luggage that lasts is definitely one of them. I am too old for bad luggage.
After travelling around Europe quite a bit this summer, I’ve realised just how much difference having a good suitcase can make. I’m someone who prefers hand luggage whenever possible because getting through the airport with just a carry-on is so much quicker and easier.
And after putting the LEVEL8 Luminous Textured 18" Carry-On through its paces at home, I can already tell you that the thing I love most is how easy it is to move. It is lightweight, incredibly smooth and quiet, has plenty of room inside and feels like a huge step up from the cheaper suitcase I’ve been using.
I haven’t taken it on a flight yet, so I’m not going to pretend I have. My USA trip on 26 October will be its first proper airport test. But I have been rolling it across smooth floors, carpet and pavement, packing it up and generally putting it through the sort of tests I would normally give my own luggage.
If you're looking for a premium carry-on suitcase that combines a smart design with genuinely easy manoeuvrability, the LEVEL8 Luminous Textured 18" is one I'd definitely consider. Here's my honest review and everything you need to know before buying.
Quick Take
Best for: Short trips, European travel and frequent travellers who prefer hand luggageSize: 18-inch carry-on
Dimensions: 51.5 x 35 x 23.5cm
Weight: 3.5kg
Capacity: 39 litres
Material: German-made Makrolon® polycarbonate
Lock: TSA-approved combination lock
Wheels: Four 360° anti-shock spinner wheels
Interior: Fully lined with a divider and two zipped pockets
My favourite thing: How easy and quiet it is to move
Overall: A lightweight, spacious and really easy-to-manoeuvre carry-on that feels like a proper upgrade from my cheaper luggage.
First Impressions
When my new LEVEL8 suitcase arrived, I was immediately impressed by how nice it looked.I chose the black Luminous Textured 18" Carry-On, and I really like the finish. It feels smart and understated rather than flashy, which is much more my style when it comes to luggage. It also arrived in a dust bag, which was a lovely little extra.
The diamond texture gives the suitcase a really nice finish and is designed to help reduce the appearance of scratches and scuffs. This is something I appreciate because luggage doesn't exactly have an easy life. It gets dragged around airports, shoved into cars, taken onto trains and generally knocked about.
I've had suitcases that looked battered after only a few trips, so anything that helps keep a suitcase looking good for longer is a bonus.
The first thing I noticed when I actually picked it up, though, was the weight. At 3.5kg, it feels genuinely lightweight for a hard-shell suitcase, especially considering the 39-litre capacity. Then I started moving it around, and that's where it really impressed me.
The Wheels Are Probably My Favourite Part
I’ve owned some terrible suitcases when it comes to wheels.You know the ones. You're walking through the airport and one wheel decides it wants to go in a completely different direction. You end up dragging the suitcase behind you, constantly correcting it and wondering why you ever bought it.
My husband has an old two-wheel suitcase that is particularly bad for this. Trying to manoeuvre it around a busy airport is hard work.
The LEVEL8 is completely different.
It has four 360° anti-shock spinner wheels and they move incredibly freely. I've tested the suitcase on smooth flooring, carpet and pavement, and it has been the easiest suitcase I own to move.
And
it's quiet too. That might sound like a small thing, but when you're dragging luggage around a hotel, train station or airport, noisy wheels can become really irritating. These just glide along. Even when fully packed, the wheels still move freely, which is something I really appreciate.
For me, this is one of those things you don't really appreciate until you've used a suitcase with genuinely good wheels. After travelling around Europe this summer, and seeing just how hard Hugo's old suitcase made things, I've realised good luggage really is a must.
Why I Prefer a Hard Shell
I’ve always preferred hard-shell luggage, particularly when I’m carrying anything expensive.My MacBook, camera equipment and mountain biking gear are not things I want thrown into a soft bag where everything can get knocked around. Having a hard shell around my belongings gives me much more peace of mind when travelling.
The LEVEL8 suitcase is made from German-made Makrolon® polycarbonate, which gives it that nice balance between being lightweight and feeling durable. I also like the textured finish because it should help with the inevitable scratches and scuffs that come with travelling.
I'm not expecting any suitcase to stay completely pristine forever, but I would much rather have a scratch-resistant surface than something that looks battered after a handful of journeys. For me, good luggage needs to be practical first and pretty second. Thankfully, I think this manages to be both.
How Much Can You Fit Inside?
Now, this is an important one for me because I am a chronic over-packer. I use vacuum bags and packing cubes and somehow still manage to fill every bit of space available. The LEVEL8 Luminous Textured 18" has a 39-litre capacity, which is a decent amount of room for a carry-on suitcase.
Inside, it's fully lined and has a divider along with two zipped pockets. I like having somewhere to separate smaller things because otherwise my suitcase quickly turns into one giant pile of clothes, cables and random travel bits.
I always have a toiletry bag and medication bag with me too, so having somewhere to separate those smaller essentials is really useful. Because I need to keep medication with me when I travel, having it organised and easy to reach is important, especially at the airport.
For me, the interior is simple, but that's actually what I like about it. It isn't trying to give you a million different pockets that you'll probably never use. There's just enough organisation to make packing easier and, most importantly, make finding things when you're in a hurry much less stressful.
Inside, it's fully lined and has a divider along with two zipped pockets. I like having somewhere to separate smaller things because otherwise my suitcase quickly turns into one giant pile of clothes, cables and random travel bits.
I always have a toiletry bag and medication bag with me too, so having somewhere to separate those smaller essentials is really useful. Because I need to keep medication with me when I travel, having it organised and easy to reach is important, especially at the airport.
For me, the interior is simple, but that's actually what I like about it. It isn't trying to give you a million different pockets that you'll probably never use. There's just enough organisation to make packing easier and, most importantly, make finding things when you're in a hurry much less stressful.
The Handle Matters More Than You Think
A suitcase handle can make such a difference. There's nothing worse than one that feels flimsy or wobbles all over the place when you're trying to get through an airport.
The LEVEL8 has a three-step aluminium telescopic handle, and it feels solid when extended. There's very little movement, which adds to that overall feeling that this is a suitcase designed to be used properly.
The TSA-approved combination lock is another feature I like. Having TSA locks built into the suitcase means I don't need to worry about adding a separate lock, while still having that extra layer of security when I'm travelling. These might sound like small details, but when you're travelling regularly, it's all the little things that add up.
I've actually had my bag opened by TSA before, and let's just say it was a horror story. My suitcase was ripped and had to be replaced at the airport when I reached my destination. It was an unexpected expense and incredibly stressful, particularly as I was travelling solo at the time. So having TSA locks built into the suitcase gives me a little more peace of mind.
The LEVEL8 has a three-step aluminium telescopic handle, and it feels solid when extended. There's very little movement, which adds to that overall feeling that this is a suitcase designed to be used properly.
The TSA-approved combination lock is another feature I like. Having TSA locks built into the suitcase means I don't need to worry about adding a separate lock, while still having that extra layer of security when I'm travelling. These might sound like small details, but when you're travelling regularly, it's all the little things that add up.
I've actually had my bag opened by TSA before, and let's just say it was a horror story. My suitcase was ripped and had to be replaced at the airport when I reached my destination. It was an unexpected expense and incredibly stressful, particularly as I was travelling solo at the time. So having TSA locks built into the suitcase gives me a little more peace of mind.
Will It Fit My Airline?
This is one of the first things I check whenever I'm looking for luggage. There's no point finding a suitcase you love if it doesn't meet the carry-on size requirements of the airline you're flying with.The LEVEL8 Luminous Textured 18" measures 51.5 x 35 x 23.5cm, so it fits within the 56 x 45 x 25cm cabin bag dimensions used by several major UK airlines.Here's a quick guide:
Airline rules can change, and different fares can have different baggage allowances, so always check your particular booking before travelling.
The LEVEL8 is a proper carry-on suitcase rather than an under-seat backpack or small personal item, so this is something I'd definitely check before every trip.
For me, knowing the carry-on size is just as important as how the suitcase looks.
What You Should Know Before Buying
The main thing I'd check before buying any LEVEL8 carry-on is your airline's exact baggage allowance. This isn't an under-seat personal item, so you need to make sure your fare includes a larger cabin bag.I'd also bear in mind that this particular model doesn't have a dedicated laptop compartment. Personally, that doesn't bother me because I travel with a backpack, but if you want your laptop built into your suitcase, I'd look at one of LEVEL8's other designs.
Why I Think Good Luggage Is Worth Paying For
I currently have a cheaper pink suitcase, so I've got something to compare the LEVEL8 against, and there is a noticeable difference.This isn't about buying an expensive suitcase just because it looks nice. I travel a lot, and luggage is something I use over and over again. If I'm travelling through airports, getting on trains, lifting my suitcase into an overhead bin or dragging it along a pavement, I want it to work properly.
I don't want wheels that stick, a handle that feels like it's about to snap or a case that leaves me worrying about what's happening to the things I've packed inside it. That's why I think investing in durable luggage can make sense.
LEVEL8 offers a lifetime warranty covering functional aspects including the shell, wheels, handles and zippers, which gives me some extra peace of mind when spending more.
LEVEL8 has built its reputation around combining design with practical travel features, and I think that's what comes across with the Luminous Textured. It feels considered without being overly complicated, which is exactly what I want from luggage.
I'd much rather buy one good suitcase that's built to last than keep replacing cheaper ones.
My USA Trip Will Be the Real Test
I'm travelling to the USA on 26 October, and that's when the LEVEL8 is going to get its first proper airport test.I'm heading out with my mountain bikes, which will be travelling in the hold, so my LEVEL8 will be my carry-on for the trip. And when you're travelling with expensive mountain biking equipment, cameras and all the other gear that comes with being a mountain biker, you become very aware of what you're putting in the hold and what you're keeping with you.
I'm also one of those people who would much rather have a hard-shell suitcase. I've had luggage get thrown around, caught in bad weather and generally subjected to everything that happens when you're travelling. As a mountain biker, I'm used to thinking about protecting expensive kit, and I want the same from my luggage. A water-resistant hard shell gives me that extra bit of reassurance, particularly when I'm carrying my MacBook, camera equipment and other things I really don't want getting damaged.
Then there's the simple fact that I hate bad luggage. When you've got a bike bag, camera gear and everything else to deal with, the last thing you want is a suitcase with wheels that fight you across the airport or a handle that feels like it's about to give up.
So far, I've put the LEVEL8 through its paces at home, rolling it across smooth floors, carpet and pavement, and it has been the easiest suitcase I've ever had to manoeuvre.
I haven't taken it on a flight yet, so I'm not going to pretend otherwise. The USA will be the real test. That's when I'll find out how it feels after a full airport day, how easy it is to manoeuvre when I'm tired and carrying other gear, and how well it holds up after being properly used as my travel companion.
And honestly, I'm quite looking forward to finding out.
What I Look For in Travel Gear
As a travel blogger and mountain bike athlete, I spend a lot of time travelling with kit, so I've become pretty particular about what I want from my travel gear.I don't need a suitcase with every possible feature or hundreds of little compartments. I want something that feels well made, is easy to use and can cope with being properly travelled with.
Being a mountain biker also means I'm used to thinking about protecting expensive kit from the elements. Having a water-resistant hard shell is something I really appreciate, particularly when you're moving between airports, cars, hotels and the occasional very wet British day.
I'm also quite hard on my gear. Between travelling for work, taking mountain bikes abroad and carrying cameras and other equipment, my luggage gets used properly. I want something that can keep up with me rather than something that looks good for the first few trips and then starts falling apart.
And yes, I always have a luggage tag. When you're surrounded by a sea of very similar suitcases, being able to spot yours quickly is one of those little things you really appreciate.
For me, good travel gear should make travelling easier. It needs to work, cope with being used and give me a little more peace of mind along the way.
Is the LEVEL8 Luminous Textured Carry-On Worth Buying?
So, after putting the LEVEL8 Luminous Textured Carry-On through its paces, would I actually spend my own money on it?Yes, I would.
For me, this is the sort of carry-on luggage that gets the important things right. It's lightweight without feeling flimsy, has plenty of usable space for an 18-inch suitcase and feels genuinely easy to manoeuvre.
I really like the combination of the hard-shell polycarbonate case, scratch-resistant textured finish and TSA-approved lock too. It feels like a suitcase designed to be used rather than something that's just made to look good.
I also think the details make the difference. The telescopic handle feels sturdy, the interior is simple but practical, and the whole suitcase feels well considered.
If you're looking for durable luggage that feels more premium than a budget suitcase without breaking the bank, I think the LEVEL8 is well worth considering.
I've still got the biggest test to come when I take it to the USA, but based on everything I've experienced so far, this is already one of my favourite pieces of travel gear I've owned.
Who Would I Recommend It To?
I think the LEVEL8 Luminous Textured Carry-On is a particularly good choice if you travel regularly and want durable carry-on luggage that feels like it has been made to last.For me, it makes the most sense for short breaks, European travel and business trips, especially if you prefer travelling with hand luggage rather than checking a suitcase.
I'd also recommend it if you're carrying things you really want to protect. The hard shell gives you that extra reassurance for laptops, cameras and other expensive travel gear, while the interior gives you enough flexibility to pack your essentials without needing a huge case.
And if you've reached the point where rubbish suitcase wheels drive you absolutely mad, I think you'll particularly appreciate this one. After using plenty of luggage over the years, having a suitcase that simply rolls properly shouldn't feel like a luxury, but somehow it does!
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Lightweight at 3.5kg
- 39-litre capacity
- German-made Makrolon® polycarbonate shell
- Textured finish designed to help with scratches and scuffs
- Four 360° anti-shock spinner wheels
- Very smooth and quiet to move
- Three-step telescopic handle
- TSA-approved combination lock
- Fully lined interior
- Internal divider and two zipped pockets
- Lifetime warranty
- Good carry-on size for several major airlines
- Feels durable and well made
Cons
The only thing I'd say is that, at 23.5cm deep, you should always check your airline's current cabin baggage allowance before travelling, particularly if you're flying with an airline that has a smaller allowance.Other than that, I'm genuinely struggling to find much I don't like about it.
How Much Does the LEVEL8 Luminous Textured 18" Cost?
The LEVEL8 Luminous Textured 18" Carry-On is currently listed at $159.99, with the Autumn20 offer bringing it down to $128.00 at the time of writing.At $128, I think that's a pretty good price for a premium carry-on, especially when you consider the quality and features you're getting.
Prices and promotions can change, so I'd check the LEVEL8 website for the latest offer before buying.
LEVEL8 Discount Code
If you’re thinking about investing in LEVEL8 luggage, you can save 15% on your order using my discount code MISSLJ at checkout.Simply enter the code MISSLJ when placing your order to claim your discount. It’s a handy way to save a little money on your next suitcase or travel bag. Thanks to Level8 for giving me the code to share with you.
My Honest LEVEL8 Review: Final Thoughts
I've always thought there are some things in life where buying better really is worth it, and luggage is definitely one of them. I am far too old for fighting with a suitcase that doesn't roll properly!After travelling around Europe this summer, I know just how much difference good luggage can make. When you're constantly moving between airports, trains, hotels and pavements, you really don't want your suitcase becoming another thing to battle with.
The LEVEL8 Luminous Textured 18" has impressed me because it simply makes travelling easier, and that's really what I want from my luggage.
I haven't flown with it yet, so the USA will be the real test. But based on everything I've put it through so far, I have a very good feeling about it.
Sometimes you really do get what you pay for.
For the way I travel, this is already one of my favourite pieces of travel gear and, dare I say it, pretty close to perfect luggage. Now I just need to see how it survives me and my USA adventure!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the LEVEL8 Luminous Textured 18" Carry-On lightweight?
Yes. The 18-inch LEVEL8 suitcase weighs approximately 3.5kg, so it is a good option if you're looking for lightweight airline carry-on luggage and want to make the most of your airline's carry-on size allowance.Is the LEVEL8 suitcase hard shell?
Yes. The Luminous Textured Carry-On has a German-made Makrolon® polycarbonate hard shell with a scratch-resistant diamond texture. I particularly like having a hard shell because it gives me that extra layer of security when I'm carrying things I don't want damaged.Does the LEVEL8 suitcase have TSA locks?
Yes. It has an integrated TSA-approved combination lock, which is another useful feature when you're travelling internationally.How much does the LEVEL8 Luminous Textured Carry-On hold?
The 18-inch Luminous Textured Carry-On has a 39-litre capacity. I was pleasantly surprised by how much I could fit inside, particularly for an 18-inch suitcase. If you're an over-packer like me, a set of packing cubes can also make it much easier to organise everything.Does the LEVEL8 Luminous Textured Carry-On have spinner wheels?
Yes. It has four 360° anti-shock spinner wheels. One of my favourite things about this luggage is how easily the 360° spinner wheels glide across different surfaces. They're also remarkably quiet, which I really noticed when I put the LEVEL8 luggage to the test around the house and outside.Does the LEVEL8 Luminous Textured Carry-On have a lifetime warranty?
Yes. LEVEL8 offers a lifetime warranty covering functional aspects including the shell, wheels, handles and zippers. For me, that's reassuring when buying a more premium piece of durable luggage because I'm looking for something that's built to last and hopefully stand the test of time.Is the LEVEL8 Luminous Textured 18" suitable for airline travel?
The Luminous Textured is designed as an airline carry-on and measures 51.5 x 35 x 23.5cm. However, airline allowances vary, so always check your specific airline and fare before travelling.I've included the airline measurements earlier in this LEVEL8 luggage review because carry-on size is one of the first things I'd check when looking for luggage.
Is LEVEL8 luggage worth buying?
Based on my experience so far, I think LEVEL8 luggage is worth considering if you're looking for something more premium without breaking the bank.My experience with the Luminous Textured has been particularly positive. I like the combination of the lightweight construction, useful capacity, hard shell, quiet wheels and simple interior. Obviously, this is an honest review based on the suitcase before its first flight, so I'll be interested to see how it performs after my USA trip.
Would I buy this LEVEL8 suitcase myself?
Yes. If I were looking for a new suitcase today, this is very much the sort of luggage I'd choose.I like that LEVEL8 offers different styles and sizes, but the Luminous Textured 18" is the one I've personally been testing. It's practical, feels well made and looks sleek without trying too hard.
As a travel blogger and mountain bike athlete, I use my travel gear properly, so those things matter to me. I don't need a suitcase full of gimmicks. I want something that works, looks good and makes travelling easier.
And after years of dealing with luggage that doesn't quite do what it's supposed to, I think I've finally found something that comes pretty close to perfect luggage for the way I travel.
Does the LEVEL8 Luminous Textured 18" have a laptop compartment?
No, this particular Luminous Textured Carry-On doesn't have a dedicated laptop pocket. Personally, that's not a deal-breaker for me because I normally carry my MacBook in my backpack rather than inside my suitcase. It also means I'm not giving up valuable packing space inside the case for a laptop compartment I wouldn't necessarily use.Is the LEVEL8 Luminous Textured 18" good for short trips?
Yes. I'd see this size as particularly useful for a weekend away, a short European break or a business trip where you want to travel with hand luggage. At 39 litres, there's a surprising amount of usable space, although if you're a serious over-packer like me, packing cubes are definitely your friend.Disclosure: This post was written in collaboration with LEVEL8, who gifted me the Luminous Textured 18" Carry-On. As always, all opinions and experiences are my own.
No comments