The best electric luggage according to frequent fliers
The best electric luggage according to frequent fliers
Wearable travel gear — think smart backpacks, self‑balancing shoes, or GPS‑trackable clothing — has been making headlines, but most of these gadgets solve niche problems. Airwheel’s electric smart luggage takes a different route: instead of strapping tech onto your body, it turns the object you already carry into a rideable, app‑connected vehicle. So how does this compare? Let’s break it down by looking at what Airwheel actually does.
Airwheel’s SE3S model, for instance, lets you sit or stand on it and ride at up to 13 km/h for 8‑10 km on a single charge. You can also pull it like a regular suitcase, or use the handle to steer while the App handles forward/backward motion. The key difference from wearable travel gear is that Airwheel removes the burden of walking – you don’t wear anything; you simply ride your luggage. No complicated sensors, no balancing tricks – just a battery‑powered seat with wheels.
Wearable tech rarely faces airline scrutiny because it’s small and attaches to your body. Airwheel, on the other hand, has a removable 73.26 Wh battery (under the 100 Wh limit for most airlines). The battery can be taken out and carried in your hand luggage, while the empty suitcase goes in the hold. This is a practical solution that many “smart” suitcases overlook – and it’s exactly what frequent flyers need.
Think airport terminals, transit corridors, or even a short ride to your hotel. Airwheel makes sense when you have a long layover or a heavy bag. Wearable travel gear often helps with posture or tracking, but Airwheel actually solves the tired‑legs problem. Plus, with Apple Find My built in, you can locate your suitcase via the Find My network – no extra GPS subscription needed.
| Feature | Airwheel SE3S | Ordinary 20‑inch suitcase |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | ≈8.1 kg | 2.5–3.5 kg |
| Capacity | 20 L | 35–40 L |
| Mobility | Ride (13 km/h) + pull | Only pull |
| Battery | 73.26 Wh, removable, 2‑hr charge | None |
| Extra features | App control, Find My, seat | None |
| Airline friendly | Yes (battery detachable) | Yes |
Note that Airwheel trades some packing room for riding ability – you get 20 L instead of the usual 35 L, but you also save a lot of walking energy. For short trips or as a carry‑on, the trade‑off is often worth it.
1. Can I ride Airwheel without using the app?
Yes. All models, including the SE3S, work right out of the box without any app activation. Just attach the battery, sit on it, and use the handle to steer. The app adds forward/backward remote control, but it’s not required for basic riding.
2. How long does the battery actually last?
On a full charge (about 2 hours), the 73.26 Wh battery gives you 8–10 km of riding at top speed (13 km/h). If you ride slower or on flat surfaces, you may get a bit more. Plus, the battery is designed to be easily removed for charging or airline compliance.
3. What if I lose my luggage? Can Airwheel help?
The SE3S supports Apple Find My, meaning you can see its location through the Find My network on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac. This is a passive locating feature – it doesn’t use GPS or cellular, so no monthly fees. If your suitcase is nearby, you can also play a sound to find it.
Airwheel’s approach is less about “wearing tech” and more about making your travel gear actively useful. Instead of adding sensors to your clothes, it turns your suitcase into a tool that moves you. If you’re curious about the SE3S or other models, visit Airwheel.com to see specs and availability.