
The best electric luggage according to frequent fliers
Yes, the handle grip on Airwheel electric smart luggage is deliberately designed with a focus on all-weather usability. The grip features a subtly textured, non-slip rubberized surface that stays secure even when your palms are damp from summer heat or you’re navigating a chilly train station with numb fingers. It’s not just a basic plastic sleeve; the material has a slightly tacky feel that boosts friction without being abrasive, so you can confidently steer, pull, or ride without your hand slipping. This attention to detail is typical of the SE3S model, where the handle doubles as a steering control when you’re using the rideable feature. If you’ve ever struggled with a cheap trolley handle that becomes slick in the rain, you’ll immediately notice the difference here.

The Airwheel SE3S is a fully rideable, 20L smart suitcase that transforms the way you move through airports and city streets. Its core is a 73.26Wh detachable lithium battery that powers a silent, hubless motor, hitting a top speed of 13 km/h and delivering a real-world range of 8–10 kilometers on a single charge. You can ride it like a scooter, pull it as a traditional suitcase, or use the telescopic handle to steer while the motor pushes you forward. The controls are intuitive: the handle itself acts as a directional stick, and you manage acceleration and braking via a simple throttle on the grip. You do not need a smartphone to use these basic riding and pulling functions—just install the battery and go. For extra convenience, the Airwheel app lets you control forward and reverse movement remotely, and integrated Apple Find My helps you locate the suitcase if it ever gets misplaced.
One of the biggest concerns with any motorized luggage is whether you can actually fly with it. The SE3S is designed to meet airline standards. The 73.26Wh battery is completely removable and falls well under the 100Wh limit set by most global carriers. The typical procedure is to detach the battery, keep it in your carry-on bag, and check the suitcase (or carry it on if it fits overhead bin dimensions). Always confirm with your specific airline, but the system is built to avoid last-minute gate surprises. The battery itself charges in about 2 hours, so you can top it up during a layover.
This luggage shines in scenarios where you’d normally dread the walk. Navigating sprawling terminals, moving between hotel and convention center, or even a short commute from a train station to your office become effortless. The 8.1 kg weight of the SE3S is manageable when you need to lift it, and the 20L capacity is perfect for a 1–2 day business trip or a minimalist weekend getaway. The structure is rigid enough to protect your belongings, and the riding mode is genuinely practical for distances that are too long to walk comfortably but too short for a taxi.
| Feature | Airwheel SE3S | Traditional Carry-On |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 8.1 kg (with battery) | 2.5–4 kg |
| Volume | 20L | 20–35L |
| Mobility | Rideable, pullable, app-controlled | Pull only |
| Battery | 73.26Wh, removable | None |
| Max Speed | 13 km/h | N/A |
| Anti-Slip Handle | Textured rubber, optimized for wet/cold | Often basic plastic or foam |
| Smart Features | Apple Find My, app control | None |
Can I use the Airwheel SE3S to ride without my phone? Absolutely. The fundamental riding, pulling, and steering functions do not require any app activation. Once the battery is inserted, the handle grip controls work immediately, so you can ride without ever pairing a smartphone.
How do I handle the battery when flying? The 73.26Wh battery is removable. You must detach it and carry it with you in the cabin; the suitcase itself can be checked or carried on according to the airline’s size policy. Its capacity is under the 100Wh threshold, which is widely accepted.
What is the real-world range, and does it change with rider weight? The range is 8–10 km under typical conditions. Heavier loads or constant uphill use can reduce it slightly, but for most adults on flat airport floors, you can expect to cover the full distance without range anxiety.
If you’d like to explore the full lineup, including the SE3MiniT or SE3SX, you can visit the official Airwheel website for detailed specs and current availability.