We get so much more out of traveling than a few Instagram posts. From immersing ourselves into new cultures to making memories, the experience can be transformative — and that’s the philosophy behind travel brand Nex, which creates luggage collections directly inspired by different destinations around the world. The company partners with local creators to channel the history of that specific location through visual design elements. Nex’s mission is to encourage people to live in the moment and enjoy the journey, instead of worrying about material things. The brand crafts minimalist pieces made from durable, quality materials that will integrate seamlessly into your adventures.
Although there are plenty of luggage brands on the market, Nex offers more than just carry-on suitcases and bags. The label also has perks to help those who want to travel more mindfully, from a rewards system to unique sustainability practices (more on those later). I tried out the Pioneer Carry-On Suitcase ($285) and the Journey Weekender Bag ($310) on a trip to Hawaii.
Ahead, you can read my full review of Nex’s luggage and learn what makes this brand stand out from the rest.
What I Like About the Nex Pioneer Carry-On Suitcase:
The Pioneer Carry-On Suitcase features a sturdy, durable exterior made from a partially recycled polycarbonate with a luxe, velvety material on the inside. When I travel with hair tools or items that can potentially break while in transit, I usually wrap them in clothes for extra protection. However, this next-level interior features a smooth material the brand calls VelvetWeave that offers protection from the bumps of traveling — it’s like I’m carrying my essentials in a giant jewelry box. The suitcase is also water-, bacterial-, and mold-resistant.
This carry-on has a pretty simple design without the bells and whistles, making it best for someone who gets overwhelmed by too many pockets. Each side of the carry-on features a full-zipper cover to keep things secure and compressed, with two zippered pockets on the outside to store smaller items. I can fit enough clothing and toiletries for a long weekend. Its wheels offer a smooth glide as well, making it easy to rush through terminals.
What I Like About the Nex Journey Weekender Bag:
The Journey Weekender Bag is one of the most gorgeous leather bags I have ever come across, exuding luxury with its dirt- and water-resistant microfiber leather exterior and velvety-soft interior. Combining high-end design with durability and practicality, it also features a spacious main compartment, multiple interior pockets, and a padded laptop sleeve. It comes with a removable pod made from the same materials, essentially the size of a dopp kit, perfect for storing toiletries, tech accessories, shoes, or dirty clothing.
The Journey Weekender Bag is about the same size as the carry-on suitcase but can fit much more, so I chose to check this one. Although I was skeptical about how the white leather would turn out after going through plenty of roughhousing, I was pleasantly surprised to find only a few scuff marks, which can be easily buffed away with a wet towel or Magic Eraser sponge (see below).
Nex’s afforementioned rewards program encourages customers to travel more by offering gift cards up to $3,000 to help book flights, hotels, and rent cars. When you make an eligible purchase, you are automatically qualified to enter a monthly raffle for these perks.
Nex is also rooted in sustainable practices, and this doesn’t stop with its manufacturing and packaging. Its Million Mile return policy encourages you to use your luggage until you can’t (i.e. if a handle or wheel is broken, if the interior is falling apart, or if the bag breaks in half). When it’s time to retire your luggage, you can send it back and the brand will give you credits for your next purchase. Nex refurbishes used luggage and bags, and customers can buy pre-loved items including a handwritten note from the previous owner about their travel adventures. Nex also has a roadmap to becoming 100 percent carbon neutral by 2035.
What to Consider Before Trying Nex:
Although the Journey Weekender is spacious and ideal for week-long trips, if you’re looking for something that works as a personal item bag, this is probably too big to fit underneath airplane seats. Instead, go for the smaller Adventure Duffle ($245), which fits about four to five outfits and your essentials, or the Explorer Backpack ($235), which fits three to four outfits, a 15-inch laptop, and toiletry necessities. Both are made from the same materials as the Journey Weekender.
At 20 inches, the Pioneer carry-on might seem a bit small (for an overpacker like me, it is), but it does fit in the overhead compartment of most aircrafts, including compact planes like Hawaiian Airlines. Since it’s on the smaller side, it’s less likely that you will have to check this bag at the gate.
Who Is Nex Best For?
With its rewards program and Million Mile return policy, Nex is made for people who live to travel and truly make it a priority in their lives. By bringing craftsmanship and luxury back to travel gear, the brand ensures that you can use it for years to come, no matter the adventure. Nex doesn’t cut corners when it comes to quality materials and thoughtful, practical design.
Additional Details:
- Pioneer Carry-On Dimensions: 14″ x 9″ x 22″; Journey Weekender Dimensions: 2″ x 9.3″ x 16″.
- Pioneer Carry-On Weight: 6.48 pounds; Journey Weekender Weight: 5.37 pounds.
- The Pioneer Carry-On comes in four colors: Haleakala Mist (white), Hanalei Green (forest green), Mauna Gray (dark gray), and Waikiki Blue (light blue).
- The Journey Weekender comes in three leather options: Travertine (white), Obsidian (back), and Amber (tan).
Where is Nex Available?
Nex’s Pioneer Carry-On Luggage and the Journey Weekender are available on the brand’s site.
Rating:
★★★★
Anvita Reddy is an assistant editor for PS Shopping. She has a passion for products and is an avid reviewer of everything including furniture, mattresses, home gadgets, cookware, tech, and more. Having dealt with acne as a teenager and into adulthood, her expertise lies in beauty. She has tried and tested plenty of skin care, makeup, hair care, and countless other beauty products.