Honest review of LEVEL8 Luggage Luminous Textured 2-Piece Set

When it comes to luggage, travelers often search for a balance of style, durability, and functionality. LEVEL8 Luggage, a New York-based premium suitcase manufacturer, promises all of these qualities and more. Known for its innovative designs and high-quality materials, LEVEL8 has gained a solid reputation among frequent flyers and vacationers alike. In this review, I’ll be examining the LEVEL8 Luminous Textured 2-Piece Set, a collection touted as anti-scratch, waterproof, and equipped with ultra-silent 360-degree spinner wheels.

LEVEL8 provided the products I am reviewing in this article at no cost, with the understanding that my feedback would remain unbiased. This Level8 Luggage Review is based solely on my honest opinion. Additionally, this post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you click and make a purchase.

I’m an avid traveler who takes both air and cruise trips regularly. While I’m not a budget traveler, I also steer clear of extravagance. My typical packing setup for a weeklong trip includes one carry-on and one checked bag, making this 2-piece set an ideal candidate for testing. Let’s dive into an in-depth look at the design, functionality, and performance of LEVEL8’s Luminous Textured Luggage.

The LEVEL8 Textured Luggage 2-Piece Set: Overview

What’s Included

The LEVEL8 Luminous Textured 2-Piece Set comprises a 20-inch carry-on suitcase (14.5” L x 9.2” W x 21.5” H, 7.7 lbs) and a 24-inch checked suitcase (17.5″ L x 10.4” W x 26” H, 9.8 lbs). Both pieces are constructed with a textured polycarbonate shell, which the brand claims is highly durable and resistant to scratches. They’re available in three colors: black, grey, and blue. I opted for black, though I’ll share some thoughts later on why this color choice may not be ideal for everyone.

Carry-On Compliance

The 20-inch carry-on suitcase meets the size requirements for major airlines, ensuring you can keep your essentials close. Its compact design makes it especially convenient for frequent flyers.

Who It’s Best For

LEVEL8 luggage is an excellent choice for frequent travelers, especially those who take cruises. The spinner wheels glide effortlessly across a variety of surfaces, including asphalt, brick, and tile, making them ideal for navigating cruise terminals, metal gangways, and onboard corridors. Their durable construction and sleek design also cater to business travelers and families who value reliability and style. Additionally, these suitcases are great for anyone who prefers organized packing, thanks to the innovative interior compression system and zippered compartments. If portability is a priority, the lightweight design of the carry-on ensures easy handling, while the integrated TSA-approved locks provide peace of mind for both domestic and international travel.

LEVEL8 Luggage Design and Build Quality

Aesthetics and Materials

Level8 sent us a set of black suitcases which would not be our first choice of color. We tend to gravitate away from black because we’ve noticed the majority of luggage out there is also black, which makes it difficult to pick out our bags from others at the luggage claim carousel. It is also easy for other people to mistake our black suitcases for theirs. 

LEVEL8’s diamond-textured polycarbonate shell is both stylish and practical. The texture not only enhances the luggage’s durability but also resists scuffs and scratches effectively. However, one drawback is the difficulty of adhering stickers to the textured surface, which might disappoint travelers who enjoy personalizing their bags. We usually place a few stickers on our luggage to make them easily identifiable. For these bags, we had to use glue to adhere some of our stickers in place. Even with brightly colored luggage, we haven’t been immune from someone mistaking their red case for our orange one hence why we’ve selected luggage with unique patterns or added stickers when there is no pattern we like. On the upside, the shell’s waterproof feature ensures your belongings stay dry, even during unexpected downpours.

The construction of the cases and materials used are very durable. They are very strong and appear very crush resistant. Both suitcases feel exceptionally sturdy, with a slightly heavier build compared to average hard-shell luggage. While this extra weight wasn’t an issue for the 24-inch checked bag, travelers considering the larger 28-inch option should be mindful of potential weight limits. A luggage scale can be a helpful tool to avoid surprises at the check-in counter.

The suitcases were delivered two days apart so if you order more than one piece, they may not arrive at the same time. Both were packaged in cotton dust bags reminiscent of high quality handbags.

Handles, Wheels, and Zippers

LEVEL8’s attention to detail is evident in the functionality of its handles, wheels, and zippers. The telescopic handles operate smoothly, though their slightly wider support arms require adjustments to packing strategies. The oversized grab handles on the top and side make lifting the bags into car trunks or onto conveyor belts effortless.

The zippers glide seamlessly and feature an integrated TSA-approved lock, eliminating the need for additional padlocks. This built-in lock is easy to set and offers peace of mind for security-conscious travelers.

The standout feature, however, is the spinner wheels. These ultra-smooth casters roll effortlessly over various surfaces, from airport tiles to uneven asphalt. Be cautious, though—their low rolling resistance means the luggage can easily glide away on sloped surfaces if left unattended.

Key Features for Travelers

Spacious Interiors and Organization

LEVEL8’s interior design sets it apart from many competitors. Both the carry-on and checked suitcase feature compression straps and zippered mesh panels on both sides, a detail LEVEL8 calls their X-Strap compression system. This dual-sided design allows for efficient packing and ensures items stay securely in place.

Another thoughtful touch is the zipper pulls—or lack thereof—on the interior mesh liners. By omitting traditional pulls, LEVEL8 eliminates potential snags, enhancing the overall user experience.

Portability and TSA-Approved Locks

The low-profile TSA-approved locks are conveniently located near the top handles, making them easily accessible while maintaining a sleek appearance. Their integration into the luggage design eliminates the need for separate locks, streamlining security checks. Additionally, the lightweight carry-on design ensures easy portability, while the smooth spinner wheels enhance maneuverability across various surfaces.

Expandability

One notable absence in this luggage set is expandability. While this could be a dealbreaker for some, the X-Strap compression system compensates by maximizing usable space within the fixed dimensions.

Performance Analysis

Maneuverability

The LEVEL8 Luminous Textured Luggage excels in maneuverability. The spinner wheels glide effortlessly over various terrains, from cruise terminals and cobblestone streets to plush carpets. This makes them particularly suited for cruise travelers, where surfaces can vary significantly.

Storage Considerations

The slim design of the carry-on makes it easy to stow in overhead compartments, while the checked suitcase slides conveniently under cruise ship beds for easy storage. This thoughtful sizing ensures that the luggage doesn’t take up unnecessary space in tight quarters.

Final Verdict

LEVEL8’s Luminous Textured 2-Piece Set offers a compelling combination of style, durability, and functionality. Here are its key strengths and potential limitations:

Strengths:

• Durability: The diamond-textured polycarbonate shell resists scuffs, scratches, and water effectively.
• Maneuverability: Ultra-smooth spinner wheels make navigating varied surfaces effortless.
• Organization: The X-Strap compression system and dual-sided compartments enhance packing efficiency.
• Security: Built-in TSA-approved locks provide added peace of mind.

Limitations:

• Color Selection: Black, while sleek, is less practical for easy identification at baggage claim.
• Weight: The slightly heavier build may be a concern for travelers who are concerned about check-in baggage weight limits. 
• Lack of Expandability: Travelers who rely on expandable luggage may need to adjust their packing strategies.

Who It’s Best For

The LEVEL8 carry-on is a versatile option suitable for all types of travelers. Its compact size, durability, and excellent maneuverability make it particularly appealing to frequent travelers who prioritize efficiency and style. Leisure travelers will appreciate its spacious interiors and user-friendly features.

The checked suitcase, while slightly heavier, is ideal for longer trips where durability and organization are key. Cruise enthusiasts will find this luggage especially useful due to its smooth-rolling wheels and the ability to store it easily under cabin beds. Those who frequently navigate busy airports or multi-modal travel scenarios will also benefit from its robust construction and effortless portability. While it may not suit ultra-budget travelers or those needing expandable luggage, it’s a fantastic choice for anyone seeking reliability, functionality, and a touch of sophistication in their travel gear.

Warranty Information

LEVEL8 offers a lifetime warranty covering functional aspects such as 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 there is a warranty issue, LEVEL8 will either repair or replace the luggage for you. For detailed terms, visit their warranty page.