In this post, I’m sharing my honest review of the Level8 Freeloop Carry-On Suitcase—what I love, what could be better, and whether it’s worth the investment.
Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I genuinely use and love.
Why I Needed a Better Carry-On
After over a decade of traveling to more than 68 countries, I’ve gone through my fair share of suitcases. One thing I’ve learned? A well-designed carry-on makes all the difference.
I used to believe that all carry-ons were basically the same. As long as they fit in the overhead bin and had four wheels, what more could you want?
But then came my biggest luggage disaster of all time. Picture this: I’m pulling my bag out of the back of a cab and the zipper completely splits open. Cue me frantically gathering my underwear and toiletries off the pavement while people awkwardly stepped around me. It was the final straw.
Level8 Freeloop 20″ Carry-On
While searching for a replacement, I came across Level8 suitcases—known for their sleek design and durability. The Freeloop 20″ Carry-On instantly caught my eye.I’ll admit it—I always prioritize aesthetics, and the vintage-inspired design of this Level8 piece immediately drew me in. I also loved the clean, minimalist vibe of the Coconut White shade. Thankfully, this suitcase is more than just good looks—it’s as functional as it is beautiful.
First Impressions: Unboxing the Level8 Suitcase
From the moment I unboxed it, I could tell the Level8 Freeloop Carry-On was built differently. It came protected in a fabric dust cover (a nice touch if you’re like me and want to keep your luggage looking pristine between trips). The materials felt sturdy, the finishes were premium, and everything about it just felt solid.
Zipperless Design That Actually Works
The most unique feature of this suitcase? No zippers.
Instead, the Freeloop uses a strong aluminum frame and dual TSA-approved locks to keep it securely shut. I was skeptical at first, but after using it on several trips, I actually prefer it.The seal is tighter than a traditional zippered suitcase, and it’s easier to close when your bag is full. Bonus: it’s waterproof. When my suitcase sat in a puddle during a rainy day in Paris, everything inside stayed perfectly dry.
Wheels & Handle: Smooth, Silent, Comfortable
The wheels on this Level8 carry-on suitcase are some of the smoothest I’ve used. The 360° spinner wheels glide effortlessly—even over cobblestones, cracked pavements, and airport terminals.The telescopic handle adjusts to four different heights, and the cushioned leather side handle is one of those little luxuries you never knew you needed. No more wrist strain or awkward dragging through security lines.
Interior Space: How Much Can You Fit in the Level8 Freeloop?
Despite its compact size, the Freeloop 20″ Carry-On has a surprisingly generous 37L capacity—perfectly sized to meet airline carry-on requirements while still giving you ample room for everything you need.
The structured interior includes smart dividers, compression straps, and a dedicated section for wet or damp items, which makes organisation effortless. Whether you’re packing for a short work trip or a multi-day city break, it’s easy to stay organised and maximise space without overstuffing your bag.
I was genuinely impressed by how efficiently I could pack without needing extra packing cubes. Everything stayed neat and in place, even with multiple outfit changes and tech gear.
The Drawbacks: A Few Things to Keep in Mind
No suitcase is perfect, and the Level8 carry-on is no exception. Here are a few things worth noting:
- Slightly heavier than average – At 4.0 kg (8.8 lbs), it’s not the lightest carry-on out there. If you fly with budget airlines that enforce strict weight limits, you’ll need to be mindful of your packing.
- Locking system has a learning curve – I fumbled a bit the first time using the locks, but once you get the hang of it, it’s quick and easy.
- It’s an investment – At £224.99, it’s not cheap. But after replacing three broken suitcases in recent years, I genuinely believe this one will last.
Is the Level8 Freeloop Carry-On Worth It?
If you travel regularly, value great design, and want a carry-on suitcase that’s durable, smooth-rolling, waterproof, and stylish—the answer is yes. The Level8 Freeloop ticks all the boxes for a high-quality, reliable travel companion.
Where to Buy the Level8 Freeloop + 10% Discount Code
You can purchase the Level8 Freeloop Carry-On directly from the Level8 website, and they’ve kindly given me a discount code for my readers:
🎟 Use code POLKADOT10 at checkout to get 10% off your order >>
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