Ashley Lauren
Sponsored, but make no mistake, these words are my own.
Before diving into the unique way this small carry on luggage opens, the 360 wheels, and travel-tested features of this durable little bag, some transparency first: LEVEL8 gifted me the Hegent Carry-On Luggage 20″ in exchange for a review. But there was one clear agreement: I could write whatever I wanted. No editing, no approvals, no fluff. What you’ll read here is 100% based on my experience. This post also includes affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase, but never at any extra cost to you.
Spoiler Alert: There’s a 10% off discount code and a free shipping link at the bottom of this page.
First Impressions: Sleek Meets Durable
The moment I unboxed the Hegent Carry-On Luggage, the first word that came to mind? Satisfying. It’s got that minimalist, clean-line aesthetic that instantly makes it feel elevated. Available in matte black (my pick) and equally stylish navy and gray colors, this suitcase doesn’t scream for attention; it earns it quietly.
It’s part of LEVEL8’s high-end lineup, and from the jump, it’s clear this brand knows its audience: style-conscious travelers who want sleek gear that doesn’t sacrifice function.
Build Quality: Lightweight, But Built to Last
The Hegent Carry-On Luggage shell is made from polycarbonate, the same ultra-durable material used in bulletproof glass. It’s lightweight, impact and water-resistant, and can flex without cracking, meaning it can handle drops, tosses, and even extreme temps like a champ.
I can toss this small carry on luggage in the trunk, roll it (gently) over the cobblestone streets of Italy, and lift it into overhead bins effortlessly, without a single scratch showing up.
It weighs just 10 lbs (4.5 kg) and has a 38-liter capacity—perfect for a weekend getaway or minimalist packer. The size coming in at 15”L x 9”W x 22”H (38.6 x 22.8 x 53.8 cm) makes it perfectly small enough for the strict European carry-on requirements.
Details that impressed me:
- Durable Shell & Corners: I trust this carry-on with my expensive photography equipment.
- Small Size: I travel frequently around Europe, and carry-on sizes are very strict; this small carry on luggage meets the criteria.
- Dual TSA-approved Zipperless Lock: State-of-the-art lock technology to safeguard your possessions.
- Smooth, Quiet Wheels: Effortless 360° glide—even on uneven surfaces.
- Aerospace-Grade Aluminum Alloy Handle: Comfortable grip, 4 height-adjustable, and no annoying wiggle, which is the best part for me.
- Matte Scratch-Resistant Finish: Still looks new after international flights.
- Surprise Feature: The soft-touch rubber handle is ergonomic, and the slow-release feature prevents any unnecessary noise or damage, making it feel luxurious.
Interior Details: Where Form Meets Function
The Hegent Carry-On by LEVEL8 boasts not one but two TSA-approved lock clasps, allowing the luggage to open clamshell-style. This means no more playing zipper hide-and-seek just to open the dang thing. Just pop it open, no drama, no flipping it over five times like you’re solving a puzzle on a game show.
Inside, there are three zip compartments: one side is split with a dry-wet separation pocket, and the other side includes a removable zip compartment that is perfect for a laptop. Since shell cases aren’t expandable, the innovative y-strap is a built-in compression system that works wonders.
Key features:
- Elastic compression panel to consolidate the size and keep clothes from shifting.
- Removable zip mesh pocket for toiletries, laptops, or cables.
- Waterproof wet pocket for swimwear or liquids.
I packed for a 3-day trip to Palermo, Sicily, with this small carry on luggage, and yes, it all fit.
Travel-Tested: My Experience on Planes, Trains, and Automobiles
I tested the Hegent Carry-On Luggage on a multi-leg journey through Italy, flying from Catania to Bologna, then boarding a high-speed train to Florence, across the bumpy cobblestone streets to my hotel. In every scenario, the bag held up flawlessly.
What stood out:
- This small carry on luggage fits effortlessly in overhead bins, even on restrictive European budget airlines.
- The handle and wheels combo made sprinting through train stations incredibly smooth, making them less chaotic.
This bag helped calm my travel anxiety. There are a lot of little things that raise my stress level on travel days (like wobbly telescopic handles), and this luggage actually made me feel like a smoother traveler, more organized, and less frazzled.
The LEVEL8 Hegent Carry On didn’t just keep up with me, it practically side-eyed me like I was the one slowing it down.
Travel Gear That Works as Good as It Looks
The Hegent Carry On Luggage isn’t your average carry-on. It looks right at home in a luxury hotel lobby or a corporate check-in line at JFK. The branding is minimal (just a small LEVEL8 logo), which I like because it helps my black bag stand out in a sea of other black bags.
If you’re tired of wasting money on luggage that you see at your local box store, LEVEL8 is where you want to look. They offer a wide variety of luggage options, all meeting top-quality standards and combining function with aesthetics. They aren’t the cheapest bags around, but you will save money in the long run since this luggage will last you a long time.
LEVEL8’s revolutionary other luggage features:
- Revolutionize your packing with the LEVEL8 wide handle trolley system. With handles anchored at the edges of your back instead of the middle, that means more room for your stuff, fewer wrinkles in your clothes, and more stability when you move.
- Quick-Access Laptop Pocket: On designs like the Creator Carry-on, the front pocket features an independent laptop compartment (fits laptop up to 15.6”) for easy access.
- Stay Connected: Built-in USB TYPE-A/C ports on bags like the Road Runner keep you powered up on the go.
- Retro-style designs like the Freeloop Carry-On Luggage keep you fashionable and functional.
- Accessories: Don’t forget to check out LEVEL8’s accessories like packing cubes, toiletry case, and gift cards.
What I love most is how LEVEL8 isn’t chasing trends. Their products aren’t flashy, but they’re elevated in all the right ways—sleek, minimalist, and thoughtfully designed with the traveler in mind. The materials feel high-end, the interiors are smartly laid out, and the cases glide like a dream. That attention to detail adds up, especially if you travel often.
There’s a real “form meets function” vibe here, nothing excessive, just everything you need done right.
Brand Cred: Who Is LEVEL8?
LEVEL8 is a New York-based brand creating modern luggage for serious travelers. They blend performance, durability, and style in a way that feels tailor-made for people who care about how they travel, not just where they go.
Their email to me mentioned this:
“We are a high-end American luggage brand that caters to frequent travelers who have certain aesthetic and quality requirements.”
The more you travel, the more you realize how important your luggage actually is. Not just for function, but for peace of mind. That’s what stood out to me about LEVEL8.
This brand isn’t just churning out pretty suitcases. LEVEL8 is rooted in the idea that travel should feel effortless. Their motto is “Nothing More, Nothing Less,” and that ethos shows up in the clean design, the quality craftsmanship, and the way their products just work—no fiddly zippers, no clunky wheels, no eye-roll-inducing scratches after a single flight.
But beyond the product, it’s the philosophy of LEVEL8 that’s worth knowing. The company believes travel is one of the most powerful ways we connect with culture. Their mission is to take the stress out of the travel experience so you can actually enjoy those moments, whether you’re exploring a new city or hustling through a crowded airport.
A Warranty That Actually Means Something
Another thing I appreciated as a buyer is their warranty policy. LEVEL8 backs its products, including the Hegent Carry On Luggage 20″, with one of the most generous warranty structures I’ve seen in the luggage industry:
- Lifetime warranty on core products like hardshell suitcases, covering any functional damage to wheels, zippers, handles, and more.
- 1-year warranty on accessories and most backpacks (with the must-have Atlas backpack getting lifetime coverage as well).
They clearly stand behind the quality of their gear. And if something does go wrong due to a manufacturing defect? They’ll repair or replace it, no drama. You just contact their customer service at level8@level8cases.com, and they’ll take care of the rest.
Should You Buy the Hegent Carry-On Luggage?
Here’s the honest breakdown.
Buy it if:
- You value quality, aesthetics, and function equally.
- You fly with the strictest airlines and want a suitcase that fits the carry-on size parameters.
- You’re tired of loud wheels and wobbly handles that don’t keep up with you.
- You carry expensive gear that you want protected with strong luggage and theft-resistant locks.
Skip it if:
- You regularly check bags and want a larger option (they have those too).
- You prefer soft-shell or expandable luggage.
Final Thoughts: Worth the Hype?
The LEVEL8 Hegent Carry-On Luggage 20″ is easily one of the best carry-ons I’ve ever owned. The thoughtful interior, sleek styling, and durable shell all add up to something that feels premium, but not precious.
It’s the kind of luggage that feels good to use. You don’t have to baby it, and you won’t feel like you’re compromising between design and function.
If you’re in the market for a refined, durable carry-on that fits the most stringent restrictions for carry-on size, the Hegent Carry On Luggage delivers.
Shop the Hegent Carry-On Luggage- 10% Discount Code
To explore the Hegent Carry-On Luggage by LEVEL8, you can shop it here.
LEVEL8 was also kind enough to offer a 10% discount code to our readers along with free shipping. This code works for all LEVEL8 products. Be sure to subscribe to our email newsletter to be notified whenever we have great deals to provide.
LEVEL8 Free Shipping
- 10% off discount code at LEVEL8: Ashley10
