Some people like to travel light, with nothing but a small backpack holding everything they need for a month-long adventure in Southeast Asia.
The July Trunk is not for those people.
This big case is for those of us who like to overpack. This style of luggage is great if you’re heading out for long-term travel, need to pack for the entire family, or just like to over-pack for everything.
So, are you looking for a massive travel case that can fit everything but the kitchen sink? This review gives you my impressions from using the July Checked Trunk to help you decide if it’s for you.
So what exactly is trunk luggage, and how is it different from a normal suitcase?
Suitcases typically have a clamshell design, with a zipper that opens down the middle. Trunks on the other hand open with clasps instead of zippers, and typically have a larger main body with a lid, rather than splitting down the middle.
Trunks are one of the oldest styles of luggage out there. The original trunks were big wooden boxes designed for people traveling by rail or by ship. They were huge, heavy, and sturdy—meant for carrying everything you needed for months on the go.
Modern trunk luggage keeps many of the same advantages: the tough rigid structure, sturdy hinged design, secure clasps, and ample packing space. Thanks to innovations in materials and design, you no longer have to deal with the outrageous weight penalty. Lightweight polycarbonate and aluminum have replaced old-school wood, and modern trunks can be surprisingly light.
The July Trunk comes in two sizes: the Checked Trunk and Carry-On Trunk. For this review, I’ll focus on the Checked Trunk.
The Carry-On Trunk isn’t really that different from normal carry-on suitcases, it just has clasps instead of a zipper. It’s heavier, more expensive, and less versatile than most carry-on luggage, so in my mind, it doesn’t have as much appeal.
The Checked Trunk, on the other hand has a lot going for it for any traveler who needs a lot of storage space. Big trunk luggage outperforms oversized suitcases and duffels when it comes to carrying a lot of stuff well. That makes the July Checked Trunk definitely worth checking out.
In this July luggage review, I’ll dive into the performance, features, and design of the July Checked Trunk to give you all the information you need to decide if it’s the best choice for you.
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Pros
- There’s a TON of space inside.
- Great organization makes it easy to pack.
- Zipperless construction makes accessing your belongings a breeze.
- The hidden laundry bag keeps dirty clothes separate from everything else.
- The hinge design is extremely smooth and feels bomb-proof
- All July products come with a lifetime warranty—a guaranteed plus for a seasoned traveler
Cons
- It’s expensive.
- If you don’t need the space, it’s definitely overkill for most trips.
- Rather than offering free personalization like many other brands, July charges $50.
- The sheer size makes it hard to maneuver through airports or around town.
- The color range is quite limited. Only their Coastal Blue and Cherry Red options stand out, while everything else is darker and neutral.
Product Specs
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Capacity
95 L
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Weight
13.2 lbs
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Dimensions
28.4″ x 16.3″ x 14.5″
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Material
polycarbonate
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MSRP
$545 (USD)
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Zippers
hinge and latch (no main zipper)
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Scratch Resistance
no scratch-resistant texture
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Wheels
rubber/PU double spinner wheels
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Bearings
SKF or equivalent sealed stainless bearings
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Rienforced Corners
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Replaceable Parts
factory repairable
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Telescoping Handle
4+
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Number of Grab Handles
2
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Water-Resistant Material
hardshell
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Water-Resitant Zippers
uncoated zippers
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Sustainable Materials
some sustainable materials
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Shipping
free
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Return Cost
pay shipping
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Return Window
90 days
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Warranty
limited lifetime
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First Impressions
My first impression on seeing this case in person was, “This thing is huge!” With its 95L of storage space, this is a truly massive piece of checked luggage. I was almost tempted to climb inside, it’s so big.
I’ve seen and used massive duffel bags before, but something about the rigid structure makes this case seem bigger.
The July Trunk comes in an array of great colors, and I absolutely loved the Cherry Red glazed polycarbonate shell that I got. It is sleek, glossy, and just looks amazing. So far I haven’t seen any serious scratches on the surface, but time will tell if the beautiful finish lasts.
On first inspection, the fit and finish looked top-notch. The hardshell was tough and rigid. The hinges felt smooth and strong. The sturdy clasps were extremely satisfying, and I found myself opening and closing the case over and over. The aluminum corner bumpers added to the overall feeling of sturdiness.
While it’s big, I was surprised by how light it felt. To be clear, this is not a lightweight suitcase, at over 13 lbs. For the capacity, though, I was expecting it to be a lot heavier. I guess the polycarbonate shell and lightweight alloy components are to thank for that.
Looking inside, I loved the fact that it’s not just a big empty box. There are dividers, zippered pockets, and separated compartments to help keep everything organized and secure.
After checking the trunk over, I took it out for a lap around the block to get a feel for the rolling action. The suitcase’s wheels did stick a bit, and I had a more challenging time conquering the rough terrain beyond my porch, so keep this in mind before taking your suitcase off the beaten path.
Although this trunk has made unique advantages, it is relatively expensive compared to other types of luggage from other brands. Its pricing gave me pause, so I wanted to know if the item would stand up to the test of use. Read on to find out more.
Pros and Cons
While I once used trunk luggage exclusively for moves and long-term tours abroad, the July Checked Trunk ticks off a lot of my boxes for every type of travel, from beach vacations to business trips.
That said, while I would love to claim that July’s trunk is perfect, there are a few little things I would love to see in their future iterations.
July Trunk Luggage Review
What amazes me most about the July brand is how beautifully it rests at the crossroads of engineered construction and bespoke design.
That said, there are certain undeniable drawbacks to the July Trunk collection. I’ll explore each in full below.
Materials
The July Trunk has an impact- and crush-proof polycarbonate shell comparable to other luxury brands. It’s sturdy without adding unnecessary weight.
This material and the clasp-lock frame are very rigid, so don’t plan on being able to stretch the capacity at all. Of course, that does ensure everything you pack is kept safe from impact while you travel.
The inner lining consists of water-proof, stain-resistant nylon with mesh pockets and thick compression straps with leather detailing.
Aesthetic
Even though the July Checked Trunk is essentially a massive polycarbonate box on wheels, the design is well-thought-out to make it not look like a massive polycarbonate box on wheels. The rounded edges soften the profile, and a dividing line down the center helps to break up the big rectangular shape and add some visual interest.
Overall, the sleek, minimalist design works really well in my opinion, especially with the glossy polycarbonate shell. This July suitcase keeps up with the brand’s reputation for clean styling that stands out from the crowd (in a good way).
Organization
I’m a stickler regarding how I pack my stuff. Everything should have a dedicated space so I can find it when I get to my destination. I hate it when the inside of my suitcase turns into a jumbled mess.
I love that the July Trunk is more than just a big, cavernous box. Inside, you get a surprising amount of organization. There is a large zippered divider creating a top-compartment in the lid. Compression straps secure all your clothes and gear in the main compartment, and multiple internal pockets give you a place for smaller items.
This trunk lacks external storage space, which is pretty typical for checked hardside suitcases. Even though it’s standard to not have external storage, I like having some sort of outside pocket for smaller items or last-minute packing.
Durability
Although the July trunk is very robust overall, mine did suffer a few scuffs after prolonged use. Additionally, the outer shell slightly warps over time. It’s not a big deal at all and isn’t noticeable unless your looking for it, but it’s worth noting ahead of time.
However, the trunk’s many compartments maintained their integrity over time, and the wheels remained smooth and energetic.
July has so much faith in the quality and durability of their suitcase collection that they’ll repair or replace your luggage through their Lifetime Warranty program.
Warranty & Customer Service
The July Trunk comes with a Lifetime Warranty, but the warranty doesn’t cover damages due to irregular use, so keep this in mind before you toss it off the roof of your car!
The Lifetime Warranty is a definite advantage. However, it doesn’t cover some small details like the interior USB charging port. The charging port only has a two-year warranty—not ideal if you’re not a techie like me.
Customer service is one of the most essential features of a product—and unfortunately, July doesn’t have the best support system.
Although I’ve been a longtime patron of the company, I will say that their customer service department is inadequate. I’ve spent far too long on the phone waiting for support numerous times. Luckily, luggage doesn’t typically require much troubleshooting.
July Luggage Features
The July Trunk collection boasts several important features that distinguish it from the rest. Read on to learn more about the benefits and drawbacks of this collection.
Outer Shell
The glazed polycarbonate shell is tough and crush-proof, and the rivetless aluminum frame provides even more structure. Rigidity and protection are what trunk luggage is all about, and the rugged outer shell really delivers.
My trunk suffered a few dings and scratches over a few months, so it isn’t as durable as I’d like—but still more resilient than most.
Unfortunately, the outer shell of every July trunk has the July Logo in massive letters. This may be a personal preference, but I’d rather have my name there! Although July offers a monogram service, it costs a whopping $50.
Latches
Instead of the wrap-around zipper you see on standard suitcases, the July Trunk has a hinged design with two sturdy aluminum latches. They are easy-to-use, strong, and give a satisfying click when you close the lid.
The latches also each have an integrated TSA Lock. This design is much more secure and tamper-proof than standard zippers.
Compression System
The July Y-Strap Compression system includes a compression pad to keep your clothes as crisp and fresh as the day you took them off the hanger.
Tightening the straps transforms these already generously big suitcases into something akin to vacuum-sealed bags.
Handle
The multi-stop telescopic handle is an awesome feature of this massive case. It is sturdy, easy to use, and offers great adjustability with 20 different heights.
Something people often overlook is the grab handles for lifting a suitcase. This trunk does a decent job with two big, comfy handles (one on top and one on the side), but I would love to see one on the bottom as well. I’ve spent enough time lifting and carrying luggage that I’m always happy to see more handles!
Wheels
When July started building suitcases, they set out to design their own wheels that performed better than anything on the market. Their extremely smooth wheels make rolling through the airport a breeze and are very easy to maneuver.
It’s worth noting that spinner wheels are definitely not the best choice for rougher surfaces like cobblestones or unpaved roads. This problem is definitely made worse when you load this big case to the max, so I would probably look for a big two-wheeled duffel if you’ll be heading far from the beaten path.
Hidden Laundry Bag
I love that the July Checked Trunk comes with a hidden laundry bag. It is made from a water- and stain-resistant material that is also antimicrobial, so it’s great for keeping dirty clothes separate from everything else.
It stows away easily in the case, and then is removable for when you’re ready for a trip to the laundromat.
Dimensions & Specifications
Capacity
The Trunks boast generous internal dimensions and lightweight construction that performs perfectly even when fully loaded.
Combined, they have a 137L capacity, more than enough for most travelers to hit the road for 6-8 days.
However, neither the full-sized Trunk nor the carry-on option is expandable, making it challenging to squeeze last-minute items in.
Additionally, the suitcase is relatively expensive, so it should afford slightly more space.
Dimensions
The external dimensions for the Checked Trunk are 59.25 linear inches, putting it well below the standard 62 linear inches limitation of most airlines.
At such a high price point, I would like to see bit more space in the future. The whole idea of a massive trunk like this is to give you as much packing space as possible, so I want every inch I can get.
Weight
While hardshell suitcases will always be heavier than their softshell cousins, the July Trunks collection minimizes the extra poundage while still providing a well-built, protective piece of luggage.
Be sure to weigh the Checked Trunk before heading out, as the spacious suitcase is easy to overpack.
July Luggage Accessories
July offers a range of travel accessories—including Luggage Tags, Trunk Covers, and Toiletry Bags, to name a few—all crafted with the same obsessive attention to quality and functionality as their luggage.
July Trunk Luggage Cover
The glossy polycarbonate shell of the July Trunk is susceptible to scratching and scuffing. Fortunately, July supplies this stretchy padded cover to keep your case looking good for years to come. It’s cut to perfectly fit over the Checked Trunk.
Bonus? It comes in a selection of bright colors, making it easy to find your case at the baggage claim.
July Packing Cells
If you’re as desperate about making the most of your bag space as I am, you’ll want to grab a set of July’s Packing Cells.
They come in a group of eight, which includes two each of their Small, Medium, Large, and Extra Large sizes.
July Tech Kit
Keeping track of small electronic items like cables, headphones, and chargers can be a challenge. When traveling I’m always stressed that I’ll lose my phone charger or head phones en route.
This little zippered case gives you a dedicated place for those small, easy-to-lose items. With room for earbuds, chargers, cables, a USB battery bank, and a pen/stylus, you won’t have to worry about losing anything.
Comparison: July Luggage vs. Monos vs. Away
Monos and Away luggage is oft-compared to July, as they both emphasize the same minimalistic design, durable construction, and intellectual approach to must-have features.
As part of this July luggage review, I compared July head-to-head with these two popular brands. Here are some of the key differences:
Monos
In terms of aesthetics, the Monos Check-In and July Checked Trunk share similar sleek, unadorned shells and color palettes. The Monos features decorate horizontal lines around the midpoint, but the matte finish is more prone to scuffing than July’s high gloss.
Monos suitcases and trunks boast an antimicrobial lining, more mesh pockets, and shoe bags, giving it the edge over July.
However, if you’re looking specifically for a trunk luggage, you’ll want to stick with July, since Monos doesn’t make a specific trunk-style case.
Away
The Away luggage collection is a popular alternative to July, and we have a full Away luggage review that dives into all the details.
Away luggage shares more in common with Monos than July, at least based on appearance. It has horizontal lines molded into the polycarbonate shell from top to bottom, a factor that may turn the more minimalist-minded off from the brand.
July luggage is overall more durable and well-built than Away. I’ve seen away suitcases crack, but July’s reinforced aluminum corners do a much better job at taking a beating. Since they hit a similar price point, I would always lean towards July just for this reason.
July carry-on luggage is also somewhat lighter weight than Away, making it easier to carry and lift into overhead bins.
You can learn more by reading our full July vs Away comparison.
July Luggage FAQ
Is July a good suitcase brand?
July is an excellent suitcase brand; it is sleek, sturdy, and intelligently designed. The brand prioritizes form and functionality across its product range.
However, the July brand has mediocre customer service at best.
Who makes July luggage?
Co-founders Athan Didaskalou and Richard Li are the genius minds behind the July luggage brand.
Is July or Away better?
Ultimately, the choice between Away and July luggage depends on personal preferences and travel needs. Both brands offer quality luggage options that are stylish and durable.
Do July suitcases scratch?
The polycarbonate shell is resistant to scratching, but it does show scuffs. It didn’t take more than a couple of trips for me to notice apparent smudges.
Why is July luggage called July?
According to a Forbes interview, the brand name was inspired by the duo’s favorite month to travel.
