This article is sponsored by LEVEL8, which provided the Road Runner Pro Carry-On 20” to test. However, all opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Finding luggage that is durable, comfortable, and keeps your belongings safe is one of the holy grails of travel. But it can also be a significant financial outlay, and I’ve learnt the hard way that cutting corners rarely pays off
The LEVEL8 Road Runner Pro Carry-On 20″ is an award-winning piece of hard-shell luggage for those looking for a stylish cabin suitcase with excellent functionality and stacks of interior space. Get the lowdown in my LEVEL8 carry-on review, tested on a week in Belgium, cobblestones and all.
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>>> Check the price and buy online here using the code theflashpacker10 for 10% off any LEVEL8 purchase.
LEVEL8 Road Runner Pro Carry-On 20″: Quick Facts
Here’s what you’re getting:
| Capacity | 35 L |
| Weight | 9.3 lbs (4.2 kg) |
| Dimensions | 14.4" L x 9.2" W x 21.5" H |
| Shell | Aerospace-grade Bayer Makrolon® (hard shell) |
| Water resistant | Yes |
| Colours | Black, stone, charcoal |
| Warranty | Lifetime (manufacturing defects) |
This suitcase complies with the size requirements for cabin baggage for most major airlines. However, I always recommend double-checking with your airline before you fly.
Build Quality
The build quality is exceptional.
It is crafted from aerospace-grade Bayer Makrolon®, a hard shell material that is light, durable and water-resistant. Although lightweight, it is far from flimsy. It feels very robust and high-end.
The adjustable telescopic handle is made from a lightweight aluminium alloy, and the 360-degree spinner wheels are very impressive. They glide along pavements and easily held their own on the cobblestone streets of Ghent without a rattle.
But watch out. These wheels are so smooth that the merest touch will propel the case forward. On more than one occasion, I had to rein in my luggage as it took on a life of its own across the train carriage.
The Feature That Sets This Apart: The Laptop Pocket
Most hard-shell carry-ons in LEVEL8’s range do not have an external pocket. The Road Runner Pro does, and it’s one of the main reasons I’d choose it over the others.
I use it less for the laptop itself and more for quick access to travel documents, boarding passes and anything I need at security. It’s secured with a robust Velcro strap and has two smaller pockets inside.
Built-In TSA Lock and USB Charging Port
No more fumbling around with external locks. The integrated TSA-approved combination lock secures both the main compartment and the laptop pocket. Setting your code is straightforward — the instructions are clear.
There’s also a built-in USB port that connects to your power bank stowed in the interior, handy for charging devices on the move. I didn’t get to test this feature on my trip, but it’s a smart design touch.
Inside the Suitcase
The 35-litre interior is lined in high-quality grey fabric. One side has compression straps to hold your clothes in place; the other has a zip-around cover with smaller pockets on its face — great for keeping things organised.
I had no trouble packing for a week, with enough room left over to bring back a box of chocolate from Bruges.
A Few Things to Consider
This is not a suitcase with obvious flaws, but a couple of things are worth noting before you buy.
The matte shell, whilst sleek, will show scuffs with heavy use. If this is a concern, consider a LEVEL8 case with a textured finish, such as the Textured Carry-On 20” or Road Runner Carry-on 20”, which hide the marks better.
The colour palette — black, stone and charcoal — is understated rather than bold. If you like brighter luggage, the Matte Carry-On 20” or Voyageur Carry-On 20” come in more vibrant options.
LEVEL8 Luminous Textured Check-In 24″ is worth a look — I’ve used and reviewed that too. Read my full LEVEL8 check-in suitcase review.
Where to Buy and How to Save 10%
LEVEL8 website – Use code theflashpacker10 for 10% off any purchase. Shipping is free to the UK, EU, USA and Canada. Returns are accepted within seven days.
Amazon – Prices are usually similar, but do check both, and bear in mind the lifetime warranty activates automatically on purchases from the official site. For Amazon purchases, you’ll need to email the company to activate it.
My Verdict
I was pleasantly surprised by this suitcase. My concern that it wouldn’t match the capacity of my beloved Osprey Fairview Wheels 36 was unfounded. It swallowed a week’s worth of kit with room to spare.
Use the exclusive promo code theflashpacker10 at checkout for 10% off any purchase.
About Bridget
Bridget Coleman has been a passionate traveller for more than 30 years. She has visited 70+ countries, most as a solo traveller.
Articles on this site reflect her first-hand experiences.
To get in touch, email her at hello@theflashpacker.net or follow her on social media.