As frequent travelers, we know how crucial it is to find luggage that not only looks good but also stands up to the rigors of constant use. Whether you’re traveling for work or leisure, your suitcase should be durable, secure, and functional. Enter the Level8 Gibraltar Aluminum Carry-On—a high-end suitcase that combines style, strength, and thoughtful features. After testing this suitcase on multiple trips, here’s my detailed review of why the Level8 Gibraltar might be the perfect companion for your travels.
Why Choose Aluminum Luggage?
Before diving into the specifics of the Level8 Gibraltar, let’s talk about why you might consider aluminum luggage in the first place. Aluminum suitcases have a reputation for being incredibly durable and resistant to damage. Unlike plastic or polycarbonate suitcases, which can crack or break under pressure, aluminum provides superior protection for your belongings—perfect for those who travel frequently or check in luggage. The only downside? They tend to be a bit heavier.
After experiencing the downside of plastic luggage cracking during a recent trip, I was particularly interested in giving the Level8 Gibraltar a test run. This aluminum suitcase promises to offer the durability of high-end brands like Rimowa but at a much more affordable price. So, does it live up to the hype?
Design & Build Quality
The Level8 Gibraltar Aluminum Carry-On is made from aerospace-grade aluminum-magnesium alloy, giving it a tough, premium feel right out of the box. The finish is sleek, and the suitcase feels solid—definitely not the kind of luggage that will dent or scratch easily under normal use. In fact, after using it for several weeks, I did notice a small dent, which is to be expected with aluminum suitcases. That said, the dent doesn’t detract from its appearance—it almost feels like a “battle scar” that shows it’s been through the trenches.
Weighing in at 10 pounds, the Level8 Gibraltar is a bit heavier than some other carry-on suitcases, particularly polycarbonate models. This weight might be something to consider if you tend to overpack or need to lift your suitcase frequently into overhead bins. For me, this was the biggest adjustment, as I’m used to lighter luggage. However, the added weight is a trade-off for the durability you get with aluminum.
TSA-Approved Zipperless Locks
One of the standout features of the Level8 Gibraltar is its dual zipperless TSA-approved locks. These provide an extra layer of security, which is a welcome feature for anyone who’s concerned about their belongings while traveling. The absence of traditional zippers means there’s less chance of someone tampering with your suitcase, and it gives the luggage a sleek, modern appearance. I have a whole post and video about trunk-style locks vs zippers if you want to read more.
However, zipperless designs aren’t for everyone. While these locks are secure, they do require a bit more time to open and close compared to traditional zippers. Additionally, this type of design doesn’t offer the flexibility to overstuff your suitcase. If you’re the type of traveler who tends to pack more than you should, this might feel limiting, as overpacking will prevent the suitcase from closing properly.
Handle System & Maneuverability
The slow-release handles on the Level8 Gibraltar are a thoughtful touch. Unlike most luggage, which can have jarring or loud handles, these release smoothly without any snapping back. It’s a small detail, but it adds a touch of luxury that I really appreciate, especially after a long day of travel when you’re exhausted and don’t want the additional annoyance of noisy suitcase handles.
When it comes to maneuverability, the Level8 Gibraltar excels. The suitcase features ultra-quiet 360° spinner wheels that glide effortlessly across a variety of surfaces, from smooth airport floors to rougher streets. I was impressed by how easily it rolled, even when I added extra weight to it with a heavy backpack or tote bag. Whether navigating crowded airports or tight spaces, the Level8 Gibraltar handled it all without any wobbling or catching.
Interior Organization
Inside the suitcase, you’ll find a mesh interior divider that helps organize your clothes and other items. This is especially useful for separating delicate items or keeping things neat. However, one potential downside is that the 36-liter capacity is on the smaller side for a carry-on. If you tend to pack heavily or prefer larger carry-ons, this may feel a bit limiting. That said, the compact size makes it perfect for shorter trips or those who prefer to pack light.
The interior organization also comes with bonus packing cubes, a luggage tag, and a dust-free bag. The packing cubes are especially handy for keeping your items neatly packed, and they come with removable Velcro tiles for labeling. While I personally didn’t use the labeling system much, it’s a nice touch for those who love to stay organized.
Durability in Real-World Testing
I had the opportunity to test the Level8 Gibraltar on several flights, including a few where I had to gate check it. As mentioned earlier, aluminum luggage can show signs of wear and tear over time, and the Level8 Gibraltar was no exception. After one flight, I noticed a small dent, but considering the rugged nature of the suitcase, I wasn’t too concerned. In fact, some might say that a “beat-up” aluminum suitcase is almost a badge of honor.
Despite the dent, the suitcase held up well to the abuse of airline baggage handlers, which speaks to its durability. The lifetime warranty that comes with the Level8 Gibraltar is another comforting factor for those who travel frequently. If anything goes wrong, you’re covered.
Price & Value
At a price of $439.99, the Level8 Gibraltar is on the higher end of the mainstream luggage market. However, compared to high-end brands like Rimowa, Tumi, and Away, the Level8 Gibraltar offers a more affordable alternative without sacrificing quality. If you’re looking for a luxury aluminum suitcase but don’t want to break the bank, this is a great option.
Final Thoughts
The Level8 Gibraltar Aluminum Carry-On is a top contender for anyone seeking a durable, secure, and stylish suitcase. With its tough aluminum construction, sleek design, and thoughtful features like zipperless locks and ultra-quiet wheels, it delivers a premium travel experience without the premium price tag of luxury brands like Rimowa.
That said, its slightly heavier weight and smaller capacity may not make it the best option for every traveler. If durability and security are your main priorities—and you’re willing to pay a bit more for them—this suitcase is definitely worth considering. Plus, the lifetime warranty provides peace of mind, making the Level8 Gibraltar a solid investment for frequent flyers.
So, if you’re in the market for a high-quality aluminum suitcase that combines durability and sleek design, the Level8 Gibraltar is an excellent choice—and it might just become your new favorite travel companion.
FAQs About the Level8 Gibraltar Aluminum Carry-On
1. How does the Level8 Gibraltar compare to other aluminum suitcases like Rimowa?
The Level8 Gibraltar offers many of the same durability and sleek design features as luxury brands like Rimowa, but at a much more affordable price. It’s a great option for those who want the high-end look and feel without spending $800+ on luggage.
2. Is the Level8 Gibraltar too heavy for carry-on use?
While the 10-pound weight of the Level8 Gibraltar is slightly heavier than other carry-on bags, it’s not overly burdensome for most travelers. If you’re someone who tends to overpack, you may find the weight more noticeable.
3. Can I overpack the Level8 Gibraltar Aluminum Carry-On?
The zipperless design of the Level8 Gibraltar doesn’t allow for overpacking as much as traditional luggage. If you pack too much, it won’t close properly. However, the suitcase comes with packing cubes to help you stay organized and maximize the available space.
4. What’s the warranty on the Level8 Gibraltar?
The Level8 Gibraltar comes with a lifetime warranty, offering peace of mind in case your luggage encounters any issues during your travels.
5. How does the Level8 Gibraltar handle gate-checking?
The Level8 Gibraltar performed well even when gate-checked. While it did develop a small dent after a flight, it held up to the rigors of airline handling and continues to function well.
