LEVEL8 sent us three items of our choice in exchange for an honest review. Our LEVEL8 Luggage review reflects our genuine experience with our Luminous Textured Suitcase, Gibraltar Aluminum Carry-on and Atlas Laptop Backpack.
We cover their standout features, our initial concerns and things to consider before buying.
We also have a 10% discount code for you to use.
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Overview: Our LEVEL8 Suitcase Review |
Our LEVEL8 Luggage Review
Taking our
While we used to escape Vancouver for the weekend, Victoria on Vancouver Island has kept drawing us back. The scene is really fun there. We took a hot tub boat for a cruise on the harbour, detoxed in a sauna aboard a barge and treated ourselves to afternoon tea at the historic Fairmont Empress Hotel.
We brought three pieces of LEVEL8 Luggage with us on our weekend trip to Victoria. As a NYC born brand, it wasn't a surprise that they looked so stylish for a city trip.Our review covers each piece of luggage we used and things to consider before purchasing.
LEVEL8 Luminous Textured Luggage Review
After putting it to the test, we can say that this suitcase not only exceeded our expectations but also introduced us to a new standard of quality within its price range.
LEVEL8 Luminous Textured Luggage
Standout features
Stylish Exterior
The sleek exterior of the Luminous Textured Luggage immediately caught our eye. We love its minimal, sophisticated look. Its polycarbonate hardshell material and aluminum alloy handle make it both lightweight and durable.360° Spinner Wheels
The performance of the 360° Spinner Wheels is excellent. They effortlessly glide across various surfaces, including carpet, and were on par with our higher-end Briggs & Riley Spinner. They are also nice and quiet.
Integrated lock
It's handy that the TSA approved combination lock is built into the suitcase. So many times we've misplaced the detached lock on our other suitcase. Since it's built in, you don't have to worry about digging around your hotel room to find it.
Zippers and straps
The zipper was noticeably effortless to do up - it almost felt like gliding through air. Inside the suitcase, the straps are easy to adjust and do up.
Initial concerns
Initially skeptical of the interior zipper compartments on each side, I soon discovered their functionality. I always pack my suitcase to the brim, so I thought they would get in the way. However, I realized that I didn't have to zip them completely up and that they actually aided in compression. This made it easier to zip up the main compartment of the suitcase. They are like makeshift packing cubes, providing an extra layer of organization and protection for delicate items.
Summary
The LEVEL8 Luminous Textured Luggage is great value for its quality and design. It introduced us to a new standard within its price range.Use this 10% discount code for our readers: groovymashedpotatoes10
The Luminous Textured Luggage comes in four different sizes - we have the 24". Shipping is free to the US, Canada, UK and the EU.
Read more reviews on AmazonLEVEL8 Aluminum Luggage review
Unlike conventional suitcases, the Gibraltar Aluminium Carry-on stands out with its unique absence of a zipper. It has a hinged design featuring two locks on the side, a design choice that initially gave us hesitation. But upon closer look, its durability, stability, style and thoughtful features hinted that it's more than just luggage, it's a travel companion that's built to stand the test of time.
We list its standout features as well as the things that may not suit every traveller.
LEVEL8 Gibraltar Carry-on Luggage
Standout Features
Stylish exterior
While we thought the Luminous Textured suitcase looked stylish, the Gibraltar Aluminum suitcase took it to the next level. Made out of Aerospace-grade aluminum, it has a sleek and sophisticated sheen. It comes in silver or grey - we love the understated elegance of the darker grey.360° Spinner Wheels
Just like the Luminous Textured luggage, the Gibraltar Aluminum suitcase features 360° Spinner Wheels. Gilding across various surfaces is a breeze and they operate very quietly.
Rubber seal
Since there is no zipper, the rubber seal on the Gibraltar aluminum carry-on gives waterproof protection. We love how tightly it seals, ensuring our belongings stay safe and dry.
Durability and Sturdiness
The LEVEL8 Gibraltar Aluminum Carry-on feels rock-solid and secure thanks to its weight and the way it closes. This carry-on would be great for business trips - it has a sense of sturdiness and safety and reminds us of a sleek briefcase, especially with its soft close handle.Its weight and structure ensure stability even when it isn't fully packed. You won't see it wobble or flail when you wheel it around, unlike some other small carry-ons.
Integrated lock
The suitcase has two built-in TSA-approved combination locks. It eliminates the hassle of misplacing detached locks.
Comes with packing cubes and a luggage tag
A bonus is that the aluminum suitcase comes with 4 packing cubes and a microfibre leather luggage tag, priced at $80 USD if you buy them separately. I started using packing cubes just last year and they have been a game changer for organizing my clothes. They are also anti-mildew and water-repellent.
One nice touch is that the LEVEL8 packing cubes have small detachable velcro labels so you can mark your cubes with logos for cords, clothes, toiletries and other items.
Lifetime warranty
Sometimes mishaps can happen while your suitcase is being handled at the airport. If it gets banged up on your adventure, you're covered.
Things you should consider before buying
Weight
While the Gibraltar Aluminum's 10 lb weight provides stability and durability, be mindful of what your weight restrictions will be before purchasing. For example, we take the floatplane a lot which has strict weight restrictions, so this isn't a carry-on we would bring for this kind of trip.
If you're using it mostly for air travel in North America or international flights you shouldn't see any issues, but some budget airlines in Europe can have restrictions of around 20-pounds for carry-ons unless you pay more.
Different method of closing suitcase
The Gibraltar Aluminum suitcase differs from the familiar zipper closure we're used to. Instead, it features two locks with a rubber seal.
While this design ensures waterproofing and adds a sleek briefcase-like appearance, it's important to consider if it suits your packing style, especially if you're someone who tends to overpack your suitcase. Ensuring all items are tucked inside is required to close it, so if you close it and your clothes start spewing out the sides, it becomes difficult.
While the mesh pocket interior dividers helped keep our stuff inside to close it, we found the packing cubes were essential to keep our clothes and small items in to easily close the suitcase. If you're an organized packer, you'll appreciate this setup. However, if you're not accustomed to organized packing, you may find yourself missing the convenience of a zipper closure.
Summary
The Gibraltar Aluminum Carry-on is a worthy investment if you're looking for durability, stability and sophistication. Its design caters well to organized packers, while its sleek briefcase appearance makes it ideal for business travel.While its weight and closure method may not suit every traveller, particularly those facing stringent weight restrictions or preferring traditional zipper closures, the included packing cubes and lifetime warranty add great value.
Use this 10% discount code for our readers: groovymashedpotatoes10
Shipping is free to the US, Canada, UK and the EU.
Read more reviews on AmazonLEVEL8 Atlas Backpack review
Here are the standout features of the Atlas Backpack that made me wish I switched out my old laptop backpack sooner.
Standout Features
Clockwise from top left: large middle compartment, large back compartment with laptop carrier, deep water bottle holder on each side, smaller front compartments
Deep outside front pockets
When it comes to backpacks, the outside front pocket at the top is my go-to spot. It's where I stash all my essentials for quick access, like lip balm, hair ties, medicine, hand sanitizer, hand lotion, earplugs, playing cards... the list goes on. My old backpack's top pocket was always bursting at the seams, barely able to close because it was too shallow.
But with the Atlas laptop backpack, it has not one, but two deep zipper pockets at the front. This is a game changer for me, and maybe my favourite feature of the backpack. Now I can fit my phone charger and laptop charger right at the front of my backpack, ready whenever I need them.Deep side pockets with zipper for water bottle
Countless times I'd tuck my water bottle from the plane into the side net holder of my old backpack, only for it to come crashing down the moment I stood up to exit the plane. It was a frantic scramble to pick it up while irking the passengers behind me. Plus, I've lost count of the umbrellas that have slipped out of the side net pocket, never to be seen again.
Thankfully, the Atlas backpack's deeper pockets with a zipper prevent such mishaps. These spacious pockets can accommodate water bottles up to 500ml, ensuring they stay securely in place.
Excellent capacity
For its size (12.6”L x 6.5”W x 18.6”H) and weight (3.33 lbs), the Atlas backpack's 31L capacity is impressive. Its design includes 26 organizer pockets, strategically placed for easy access to various items, like your passport, without the need to rummage through the entire bag.
There are two large compartments, each with its own zipper. The rear large compartment, which unzips all the way down, offers a flat surface to put your papers, magazines or anything you want to keep flat. It's also where you will find the padded laptop compartment.
The front large compartment is spacious enough to accommodate wider items and includes built-in pockets for added organization.
Refined and understated look
Despite its rugged build, the Atlas Backpack has a refined and understated look, making it suitable for various settings. I love that it comes in all black. So many backpacks I've seen with this level of durability and functionality have looked too sporty or colourful.Leather backpacks are the most stylish looking backpacks in my opinion, but they often fall short on durability and lack functionality. With the Atlas Backpack, I like that I don't have to worry about stowing it underneath the plane seat where I occasionally kick it by accident or rest my feet on it. It has a stylish design that doesn't compromise its durability.
Laptop protector
With heavily padded foam on both sides, the protective laptop compartment is excellent. Its patented 3D EVA foam also provides shock absorption.
My previous backpack only had a thin foam protector on the inside, with nothing to shield the back of my laptop, except fabric. Now I don't have to place magazines around my laptop for added protection.
Fits laptops up to 16"
I've always had a 13" laptop, so haven't had to worry about it fitting. But, if you have a larger laptop, this backpack can accommodate up to 16".
Durability and comfort
The Atlas Laptop Backpack is crafted from water-repellent and weather-resistant polyester fabric, making it a reliable companion against the elements. Its airflow back padding and heavily padded backstraps were also designed for comfort.Initial Concerns
My previous backpack was smaller, so I was initially worried that this backpack would feel too big. However, its stiff structure ensures it sits flat against your back, which is fantastic. Even when packed full, it doesn't make you feel like an awkward turtle.
Summary
In my quest for a travel-friendly upgrade from my trusty old laptop backpack, the LEVEL8 Atlas Laptop Backpack emerged as a game-changer, revealing the shortcomings of my previous one.From its deep and accessible front pockets to its secure side pockets for water bottles, the Atlas Backpack proves its worth with its thoughtful design elements. With its impressive capacity, durable construction and refined aesthetic, it's a versatile companion for everyday use and travel adventures.
Use this 10% discount code for our readers: groovymashedpotatoes10
Shipping is free to the US, Canada, UK and the EU.
Read more reviews on Amazon
LEVEL8 luggage discount code
Happy travels!