Solgaard vs Monos: Is Nobl Travel the Better Luggage Brand?

Shopping for new luggage is supposed to be fun. All too often, though, it becomes stressful with so many different brands, styles, and features to filter through. It helps to start by narrowing it down to a brand, like Solgaard vs Monos. These are two really popular choices right now.

Solgaard makes luggage that doesn’t leave a mark behind on the planet. The Certified B Corp uses upcycled materials, but it’s not just a gimmick. The suitcases themselves are some of the most sophisticated we’ve seen from an organizational standpoint.

Monos leans a bit more minimalist. These suitcases are sleek and stylish, with some cool features - but you’re really just paying for branding. They’re solid, but not necessarily all that innovative, especially considering the price you’re paying. They’re in the premium luggage tier.

We do things differently here at Nobl Travel. Our hard shell luggage is made for how you actually travel. That’s why you’ll find features like built-in charging ports, a front laptop pocket to streamline security, phone/cup holders, integrated seats for traveling with kids, and much more.

We also use the most durable materials available across our carry-on luggage and checked luggage so you can rest assured your suitcase is built to withstand the rigors of regular travel. All at a price that won’t break the bank. 

Learn more about Monos vs Solgaard and how Nobl Travel stacks up below!

“Luggage arrived in great condition and on time. Excellent quality! It is always difficult to know ahead of the quality, and I was not disappointed! Customer service was great!” - Bonnie

“I received my first piece of luggage in a very short amount of time. I love the space and all the compartments. The bottle holder is wonderful as I walk with a cane, so I don’t have to worry about carrying a drink close to my chest and sometimes getting my clothes wet. I love everything about it.” - Ella

“Everything was in perfect condition when it arrived. I love the fact that they put effort in making sure that the product will be delivered smoothly and in good shape. Best purchase so far!” - Grace

Sneak Peek at Solgaard vs Monos

What matters	Solgaard	Monos	Nobl Travel
Shell materials	Polycarbonate	Polycarbonate; Aluminum (select)	Reinforced polycarbonate; Aerospace aluminum
Closure & security	Zippered shells; TSA lock	Zippers (PC); latch frame (Aluminum)	Zipperless frame; dual/triple TSA latches
Signature feature	Built-in 6-shelf Closet system	Front laptop pocket; Expandable	USB/USB-C, phone + hidden cup holder, bag clips, expansion/collapsibility, integrated seats for kids
Sustainability	Ocean-bound plastic in shells/linings	Minimalist design; some recycled linings	Long-life build + lifetime repair support
Interior organization	Hanging shelves + compression straps	Compression pad/dividers; clean layout	Compression panels; waterproof toiletry pocket; passport sleeve, laptop pocket
Warranty	Lifetime warranty	Limited lifetime + 100-day trial	Lifetime warranty
Typical price (carry-on)	~$275–$345	~$275–$775	~$245–$595

Our Luggage Design Philosophy at Nobl Travel

Nobl Travel builds luggage around one simple belief: traveling should feel seamless, not stressful. Every suitcase we design blends security, convenience, and durability without the inflated price tag you’ll find from luxury competitors.

Consistent Features Across All Collections

Whether you’re shopping our All-in-One, Aluminum, or Collapsible series, you’ll notice a familiar set of features that define the Nobl experience.

Every case is built around a zipperless frame secured with dual TSA-approved latch locks, giving you peace of mind that your belongings are safe while eliminating the weak points of traditional zippers.

Four smooth-gliding spinner wheels and an adjustable telescoping handle allow you to move effortlessly through airports, city streets, or train stations. Inside, you’ll find organized compartments, compression panels, and a waterproof pocket for toiletries or damp clothing. Packing feels less like a puzzle and more like second nature.

Innovation You Won’t See Elsewhere

Depending on the luggage you’re eyeing, you’ll gain access to one-of-a-kind features that aren’t standard on the suitcases other brands make - like Solgaard vs Monos.

The all-in-one carry-on luggage, for instance, has a cup and phone holder, front laptop pocket, built-in charging ports, and clips for extra bags you might have on your person. 

Then there’s our latest and greatest innovation, our suitcase with a built-in seat. This is a game-changer for stressed parents trying to make a connecting flight or keep their kid comfortable at the gate.  

We also have collapsible carry-on luggage and checked luggage that breaks down from 10 inches to just 4 inches when not in use, saving precious closet space. We’re constantly looking to redefine what luggage can be. 

Durable Materials From Wheel to Handle

We don’t just include thoughtful features across our lineup. We make suitcases that can withstand even the harshest travel conditions, from carousel slamming to careless baggage handlers, cobblestone streets, and more.

All the frames are aluminum, and shells are either unbreakable polycarbonate or aluminum, depending on the series. The telescoping handles are engineered with stability in mind - no frustrating wobble. Even the wheels are designed to withstand years of use, rolling smoothly over uneven terrain instead of seizing up after a few trips.

The best part? You aren’t paying the same luxury price tag you would with other brands. Just compare our aluminum luggage to what Monos offers - you’ll save up to $200 with us, without any compromise on quality or style.

We’re the #1 Solgaard and Monos alternative, and you’ll agree once you see your new suitcase in person and discover how much more seamless travel can be. But if you’re still not convinced, we’ll take a closer look at Monos vs Solgaard below. 

What Type of Luggage Does Solgaard Make?

Solgaard is known for its strong commitment to sustainability, and its suitcases are made with practicality in mind as well. The brand’s goal is to elevate your adventures while reducing waste at the same time. 

Sustainability-Driven

Solgaard has made eco-conscious design a brand cornerstone. The signature Shore-Tex® fabric used across the lineup is crafted from upcycled ocean-bound plastic, meaning each suitcase has a direct environmental impact.

The brand says you’re preventing 6 pounds of ocean-bound plastic with your purchase - and as a certified B Corp, Solgaard is doing its part to leave this planet a better place. 

Intuitive Organization

It’s not just a feel-good story. Solgaard has one of the most thoughtful interior designs we’ve seen in a suitcase. The built-in closet system is a series of foldable, removable shelves that sit neatly inside the suitcase.

So instead of digging through layers of clothes, you can pack items directly into the shelves, then pull the entire unit out and hang it up at your destination. This keeps belongings organized, and helps frequent travelers avoid the “suitcase mess” that builds up over long trips.

Strengths and Weaknesses

We get the appeal of Solgaard. You can take a lot of the stress out of packing and living out of a suitcase on the road, and feel good about your purchase knowing you’re contributing to sustainability. That’s great! 

But, the luggage comes at a pretty steep price point. $295 for a carry-on isn’t cheap. So is the luggage really worth it? Let’s take a look at the other half of our Solgaard vs Monos comparison to help you arrive at your own conclusion! 

What Are Monos’ Most Popular Suitcases?

You’re probably familiar with Monos if you’ve spent time shopping for luggage. It’s one of the most popular brands online, known for a minimalist design that stands out in the airport. The brand uses strong materials, but falls short of the features you’ll see in Solgaard or Nobl Travel. 

The Core Polycarbonate Lineup

At the heart of Monos is their Carry-On, Carry-On Plus, and Check-In series, all crafted from durable, recycled polycarbonate. These models are known for their sleek, matte finishes, scratch-resistant coating, and sturdy build. 

You get basic features like 360° spinner wheels, telescopic handles with multiple height settings, and TSA-approved locks across the lineup. The Pro version has a built-in laptop pocket to streamline the security checkpoint, too. 

Inside, you’ll find compression straps and zippered compartments for a clean organization system, but nothing quite like what Solgaard has developed. 

The Aluminum Upgrade

Want a step up in terms of durability and style? Monos also offers an Aluminum series. These suitcases replace zippers with latch closures, reinforcing security and creating a premium look that’s on par with brands like Rimowa, but at a more affordable price point.

The aluminum construction makes them heavier than their polycarbonate siblings, but also more resistant to dents, scratches, and long-term wear. For what it’s worth, our aluminum carry-on luggage and aluminum checked luggage are the better choice from a value perspective, though.

Pros and Cons of Monos

Monos’ strengths lie in its balance of minimalist design, durability, and a product range that feels elevated without being wildly expensive. They also offer a 100-day trial period, so you can place your order with peace of mind knowing you have a chance to try it out before committing. 

On the flip side, their suitcases are heavier than budget competitors, and while the design is stylish, there’s really nothing noteworthy about Monos from a feature perspective. You’re not getting any super intuitive organization system or unique extras.

So, where does that leave you in choosing between Solgaard vs Monos?

Monos vs Solgaard vs Nobl Travel: Comparing Three Top Luggage Brands

Travelers today expect more from their luggage than just a hard shell and a couple of wheels. Whether it’s eco-conscious design, minimalist styling, or innovative features, brands are competing to deliver something that truly makes a difference when you’re on the move.

The Monos vs Solgaard vs Nobl Travel comparison is a perfect example of this. Let’s take a closer look at exactly what each brings to the table to help you find your next suitcase! 

Materials Used

It’s no secret that travel luggage takes a toll on your luggage. You want to buy a suitcase knowing it’s built to stand the test of time, and that starts with the materials used. Fortunately, all three brands in our Solgaard vs Monos vs Nobl Travel comparison check this box.

Monos uses aerospace-grade polycarbonate for its main lineup and high-end aluminum for its premium models. The polycarbonate shells are designed to handle the wear-and-tear of modern travel, while aluminum adds extra resistance.

Solgaard takes a different approach. It still uses polycarbonate across its suitcases, but also has a Shore-Tex® fabric inside made from upcycled ocean-bound plastic. This emphasis on sustainability is really what separates Solgaard vs Monos and Nobl Travel.

We here at Nobl Travel use aluminum frames across our lineup, and complete the suitcase with either a polycarbonate or aluminum shell, depending on the model. You get the perfect balance of protection and lightweightness. 

Security and Closure Systems

One key distinction between Nobl Travel and Solgaard vs Monos is how the luggage closes and stays shut. While Monos continues to use traditional zipper-style closures (with the aluminum series being the exception), Solgaard and Nobl Travel eliminate zippers altogether.

Instead, we use a latch closure system with dual or triple TSA-approved locks. This design not only improves anti-theft protection but also avoids one of the most common failure points in luggage: broken zippers.

Travel-Ready Features

Now, this is what really matters to most travelers comparing Monos vs Solgaard vs Nobl Travel: how well does the suitcase travel with you? 

Monos does create a really sleek, stylish suitcase. We’ll give them that. But there’s nothing all that noteworthy as far as features go. You get a front laptop pocket in some models, but nothing else beyond that. 

Solgaard and Nobl Travel, on the other hand, both incorporate USB charging ports to keep your tech running during those long travel days. We take things even further, though, at Nobl Travel. Other features you’ll find across the lineup include:

• Phone and cup holders
• Built-in seats for traveling with kids
• Bag clips for extra gear you’re carrying
• And much, much more

Like we said from the start, we’re redefining what luggage can be. 

A Look Inside the Suitcases

Packing can be stressful, which is why the interior of a suitcase is another important consideration between Nobl Travel vs Solgaard vs Monos. And this is where one brand definitely has an edge.

Solgaard’s built-in Closet system transforms how you pack and how you stay organized during your trip. You get a series of removable, foldable shelves that let you pack neatly and unpack quickly at your destination.

Monos keeps things simpler, staying true to the brand’s minimalist philosophy. These suitcases do have a nice interior. One side has a zippered compartment, the other with compression straps. But nothing all that exciting.

Nobl interiors combine the best of both worlds. You’ll get dividers, compression panels, and organizational compartments that are flexible enough for efficient packers but don’t add unnecessary bulk. We also have suitcases that expand, and others that collapse, depending on your needs!

Warranty and Customer Support

All three brands in our Monos vs Solgaard vs Nobl Travel offer some sort of guarantee. It’s just a matter of how long it is and how well the brand stands behind it.

Monos offers a limited lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects, plus a 100-day trial period. Solgaard’s also has a lifetime warranty, though there isn’t any sort of trial period to test the suitcase out.  

We here at Nobl Travel also back our luggage with a lifetime warranty and dedicated support team. Just take a look at our reviews on Trustpilot and you’ll see how many customers rave about our service staff! 

The Cost Conversation

One final thing to consider between Solgaard vs Monos vs Nobl Travel is price. Perhaps more importantly, value for the money. None of these brands are “cheap,” but you get what you pay for.

Solgaard’s Closet Carry-On Lite starts at around $275, with larger check-ins reaching the $350 range. Meanwhile, Monos is a bit more expensive. Carry-ons are similar in price but the brand’s higher-end checked suitcases can cost up to $770!

This is why Nobl Travel is ultimately the smarter choice over Solgaard vs Monos. You get the best features, materials, and brand support at a price that makes sense. Our suitcases are similar in price to Solgaard, but well below Monos - especially for checked suitcases.

Wrapping Up Our Solgaard vs Monos Comparison

In comparing Monos vs Solgaard, it’s clear each brings something different to the table. Solgaard appeals to eco-conscious travelers with its Closet system and sustainable materials, while Monos offers a sleek, minimalist lineup with strong durability and premium finishes.

Both have their strengths, but neither fully blends durability, smart design, and value the way Nobl Travel does. With zipperless security, intuitive travel features, and a lifetime warranty, Nobl is built to support every journey long-term.

We also have comparisons for July vs Away luggage and Rimowa vs Tumi if you want to weigh other options. But just as Nobl Travel is a smart upgrade over Solgaard vs Monos, our suitcases are a superior Away suitcase dupe and Rimowa dupe suitcase.

Don’t just take our word for it. Order risk-free today and discover the difference firsthand!