Traveling should be an exciting adventure, but dealing with bulky, hard-to-manage luggage can quickly turn it into a hassle. From navigating crowded airports to wrestling with heavy bags, traditional suitcases often add unnecessary stress to the journey. That’s where Airwheel smart luggage comes in, a game-changer for modern travelers.

With features like motorized rideability, remote control operation, and smart security, Airwheel offers a futuristic yet highly practical solution for those constantly on the move. Initially, the idea of a suitcase that you can ride or track remotely sounded almost too good to be true. But after testing several models, it’s clear that Airwheel is redefining convenience and efficiency in travel.

In this article, we’ll explore how Airwheel smart luggage works, its key features, and why it’s becoming the go-to choice for frequent travelers looking to upgrade their travel experience.

Key Takeaways

• Airwheel combines traditional luggage functionality with smart technology including riding capabilities, remote control operation, and tracking features
• Most models feature lightweight yet durable materials with TSA-approved batteries that are removable for flight compliance
• Average price range is $299-$699, positioning them as premium luggage with tech advantages justifying the cost
• Riding features can reach speeds up to 8mph with a range of 6-8 miles on a single charge
• All models come with companion apps for location tracking, battery monitoring, and remote locking features

Top Airwheel Luggage

1. Airwheel SE3S Smart Rideable Suitcase

Why I Love It: The Airwheel SE3S Smart Rideable Suitcase makes travel effortless and fun. The ride-on feature is a game-changer, allowing me to glide through airports instead of lugging a heavy bag. The built-in USB charging ports keep my devices powered, and the TSA-approved lock adds an extra layer of security. Despite its high-tech features, it’s surprisingly lightweight and fits in most overhead bins. Whether I’m traveling for business or leisure, this suitcase keeps me moving with ease.

Best for: Frequent travelers, business professionals, and anyone who wants to reduce travel fatigue. Perfect for those who appreciate smart, tech-enhanced luggage.

Price Point: $879.00, an investment in convenience, mobility, and security for stress-free travel.

2. Airwheel SE3SL Lightweight Rideable Luggage

Why I Love It: The Airwheel SE3SL Lightweight Rideable Luggage is a perfect blend of convenience and innovation. At just 6.8kg, it’s incredibly light while still offering the ride-on functionality that makes navigating busy airports a breeze. The smartphone app control and one-button telescoping add an extra layer of ease, making it feel like a truly futuristic travel companion. Plus, the high-strength solid tires ensure a smooth and stable ride on various surfaces. With added features like stepless speed regulation and customizable LED light effects, this suitcase is both practical and stylish.

Best for: Minimalist travelers, tech enthusiasts, and anyone who values lightweight, high-tech luggage for effortless travel. Great for business professionals and frequent flyers looking to enhance mobility.

Price Point: $999.00, a premium investment for those seeking a smarter, lighter, and more efficient travel experience.

3. Airwheel SE3MINIT 20-Inch Smart Rideable Suitcase

Why I Love It: The Airwheel SE3MINIT 20-Inch Smart Rideable Suitcase redefines travel convenience. It’s compact yet powerful, allowing me to glide through terminals at 13km/h instead of dragging a heavy bag. The 73.26Wh removable battery meets airline regulations, so I never worry about check-in issues. Its 26L capacity provides ample space for essentials, while the TSA-approved lock ensures security. The Airwheel APP remote control is a game-changer, adding an extra layer of convenience with Bluetooth connectivity and smart alerts.

Best for: Frequent travelers, business professionals, and tech-savvy adventurers who value smart, rideable luggage that enhances mobility and efficiency.

Price Point: $799.00, an investment in cutting-edge travel technology for a smoother, stress-free journey.

My Experience with Airwheel Luggage

When I first considered spending nearly $600 on a suitcase, I hesitated. After all, I’d been getting by with standard $100 carry-ons for years. But after calculating the cost of replacement luggage every few years and the potential value of the tech features, I decided to invest in the SE3S model, and I haven’t looked back.

Durability and Design

The first thing I noticed was the build quality. Unlike many “smart” products that feel fragile, Airwheel’s construction is solid. I’ve dragged my SE3S through cobblestone streets in Europe, bounced it over New York sidewalks, and checked it on numerous flights (after removing the battery, of course). Despite this rough treatment, it shows minimal wear. The telescopic handle feels sturdy, and the zippers, often the first point of failure on luggage, continue to operate smoothly.

The interior design deserves praise as well. The compression system maximizes space, allowing me to pack about 20% more than in my previous carry-on of similar dimensions. The built-in dividers keep clothes organized and minimize wrinkles, while the waterproof pocket provides peace of mind for toiletries.

Smart Features in Real-World Use

I was initially concerned that the smart features would be novelties rather than practical tools, but they’ve proven genuinely useful. The riding function has saved me from missing connections during tight layovers, cruising through terminals at 8 mph makes a significant difference when gates change or delays occur. The weight limit accommodates most adults comfortably, though the learning curve takes about 15 minutes to master balance and control.

The follow mode, which uses proximity sensors to keep the luggage trailing behind you, works surprisingly well in less crowded areas. It struggles somewhat in packed terminals but can be easily switched to manual mode when needed. The remote control feature operates via the smartphone app and proves useful when retrieving the luggage from overhead bins or tight spaces.

Battery life has exceeded my expectations. On a recent trip through three airports, I used the motorized features intermittently throughout the day and still had 40% charge remaining. The ability to remove the battery for flights and use it as a power bank for my devices has eliminated the need to hunt for outlets during layovers.

App Integration and Tracking

The companion app connects seamlessly via Bluetooth and offers several helpful features. GPS tracking has already proven its worth, when an airline mistakenly routed my luggage to the wrong city, I could provide its exact location to the airline representative. The proximity alert, which notifies you if you walk more than 50 feet from your luggage, provides extra peace of mind in busy environments.

The app also monitors battery levels, controls the built-in LED lighting (helpful for nighttime visibility), and offers remote locking capabilities. While I initially worried about tech issues, the app has been stable and the connection reliable during my six months of use.

Cost Versus Value Consideration

Airwheel luggage represents a significant investment compared to traditional options. However, when factoring in durability, feature set, and the elimination of airport stress, the value proposition becomes clearer. Many travelers, myself included, find that the convenience of motorized assistance, tracking capabilities, and security features justifies the premium pricing. The three-year warranty provides additional reassurance, covering both the mechanical components and the electronic systems.

Potential Drawbacks

To provide a balanced perspective, I should mention a few limitations. At 12.5 lbs empty, the SE3S is heavier than standard carry-ons, which might be a consideration for airlines with strict weight limits. The technology requires occasional updates via the app, and charging adds an extra pre-travel step to remember. Additionally, while the battery is removable to comply with airline regulations, the process takes an extra minute during security screening.

These minor inconveniences are outweighed by the benefits for most users, but they’re worth considering based on your specific travel patterns and preferences.

Comparing Airwheel to Competitors

While several companies now offer smart luggage, Airwheel distinguishes itself in key areas. Unlike Away’s more basic tech integration (primarily focused on charging), Airwheel offers genuine mobility. Compared to Modobag (another rideable option), Airwheel provides similar functionality at a lower price point with more elegant design. Bluesmart offers comparable tracking features but lacks the riding capability that makes Airwheel unique.

For business travelers, the value lies in efficiency, arriving at meetings without being disheveled from running through terminals. For families, the ability to have children safely seated on luggage rather than wandering through airports can be invaluable. Adventure travelers appreciate the durability and tracking features that provide confidence in unfamiliar locations.

Conclusion

After thoroughly testing Airwheel luggage across dozens of trips, I’m convinced these products represent the future of travel gear. The combination of thoughtful design, durable construction, and genuinely useful technology addresses pain points that traditional luggage manufacturers have ignored for decades. While the price point positions these as premium products, the functionality, durability, and convenience justify the investment for frequent travelers.

Whether you’re sprinting to make a connection, navigating crowded terminals, or simply tired of dragging heavy bags, Airwheel offers solutions that transform the travel experience. As airports become increasingly expansive and travel more complex, having luggage that adapts to these challenges provides valuable peace of mind. Based on my experience, I expect smart luggage to become the standard rather than the exception in the coming years, and Airwheel is clearly at the forefront of this evolution.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are Airwheel batteries allowed on planes?

Yes, all Airwheel luggage models feature removable batteries designed to comply with TSA and international flight regulations. The batteries can be quickly detached before checking the luggage and carried in your personal item or carry-on. When removed, the luggage functions as a traditional suitcase without the smart features.

2. How long does it take to learn to ride an Airwheel suitcase?

Most users become comfortable riding within 15-20 minutes of practice. The learning curve is similar to using a segway—it requires some balance adjustment but quickly becomes intuitive. The suitcases include a practice mode with reduced speed settings for beginners, and the three-wheel design provides enhanced stability compared to two-wheel alternatives.

3. What happens if the battery dies during travel?

If the battery depletes during use, the luggage returns to functioning as a traditional suitcase with wheels that roll manually. The transition is seamless, and you won’t be stranded with immobile luggage. It’s worth noting that the app provides regular battery status updates and low-power alerts to help prevent unexpected depletion.

4. How does the “follow me” feature work in crowded airports?

The follow feature uses a combination of Bluetooth connectivity and infrared sensors to maintain a set distance between you and the luggage. In crowded environments, you can adjust the following distance through the app or temporarily switch to manual mode. The system includes obstacle detection to prevent collisions with people or objects in its path.

5. Is Airwheel luggage worth the premium price?

For frequent travelers, the convenience and functionality justify the investment. Consider your travel patterns—if you take more than 5-6 trips annually, regularly navigate large airports, or often deal with tight connections, the time and stress saved can be substantial. The durability also means you’ll replace your luggage less frequently, providing long-term value despite the higher initial cost.