We had been looking for a cabin suitcase that was sturdy, lightweight, and practical — one that could handle low-cost flights, rushed transfers, and the cobblestone streets of European cities. The Level8 Hegent Carry-On 20” arrived a few days ago (gifted by the brand, but with no obligation for a positive review), and since then, it has already joined us on a few short trips.
In this article, we share our real experience with this suitcase — what we loved, what could be better, and most importantly, whether it’s truly worth the investment.
Table of Contents
You might be interested in these posts
First impressions of the carry-on
The Hegent comes carefully packaged, and at first glance, you can tell it’s built to last. The design is minimalist, with a matte finish and a hard shell made of German Makrolon® polycarbonate, reinforced by an aluminum frame.
We received two colors — gray and navy — and both have that premium feel without being too flashy.
Details and features that make a difference
After using it through airports, trains, and even dirt roads, a few details really stood out:
- No zipper — and that’s a good thing. The aluminum frame with dual TSA-approved locks adds extra security and removes the risk of a broken zipper (we’ve all been there).
- Quiet and smooth wheels. The 360º spinner wheels glide effortlessly, even on uneven surfaces. It’s one of the most stable suitcases we’ve tested.
- Smart interior. Two well-designed compartments — one with mesh and another waterproof — perfect for separating clothes and accessories.
- Compression strap. The Y-shaped system helps compress everything and maximize space — essential when you’re traveling with just a carry-on.
- Comfortable handle and grip. The handle adjusts to four heights, and the rubberized touch feels great — it really makes a difference on longer walks.
Real-life experience
We usually travel with 40L backpacks, but for short getaways or flights with baggage restrictions, a carry-on suitcase is perfect. The Hegent model easily fit clothes for two people on a 5-day trip — no problem at all.
The lightness surprised us the most: at just 4.5 kg, it’s sturdy yet easy to handle, gliding literally with one finger. In busy airports, that makes a big difference.
What could be improved
No product is perfect, so here’s what we think could be better:
- The interior could have more small compartments for electronics and cables — it only has two large ones, one of which is waterproof.
- The price is on the higher side, although justified by the materials and lifetime warranty.
- It takes up more space than a backpack when not in use (it’s not foldable).
If you travel often and value durability, security, and minimalist design, the Level8 Hegent is an excellent travel companion. For backpack lovers, it’s a natural upgrade when you want something more practical and professional — especially for business trips or short getaways.
After several flights, trains, and metro rides, it still looks brand new — and to us, that says a lot.
Quick specs
Feature Details
- Capacity: 38 L
- Weight: 4.5 kg
- Dimensions: 38.6 x 22.8 x 53.8 cm
- Exterior material: Makrolon® polycarbonate
- Frame: Aerospace-grade aluminum-magnesium
- Wheels: Ultra-quiet 360º spinners
- Lock: Dual TSA-approved system (no zippers)
- Warranty: Lifetime
Frequently asked questions
Does it fit in low-cost airline cabins?
Yes, it meets the size requirements for most airlines (Ryanair, EasyJet, TAP, etc.), but it’s always best to double-check before your flight.
Is it worth the price?
If you value quality, yes. It’s a suitcase built to last for years — not just one travel season.
Is it a good option for couples?
Yes — we managed to share just one suitcase for 4–5 day trips, with room for both of us.
Where can I buy a Level8 suitcase?
You can check more details (and available colors) on the official Level8 website or online stores selling the Hegent Executive Carry-On model.
