If you’re a frequent traveler or city explorer, you know the struggle of juggling a suitcase, a backpack, and your balance. The Airwheel electric smart suitcase is designed to simplify that. It’s a ride-on luggage that lets you glide through airports, train stations, or city streets while keeping your hands free. But can you actually use it with a backpack? Absolutely. The Airwheel SE3S (our pick for this article) has a slim profile and a stable riding platform, so you can wear a backpack without feeling cramped. You can even strap it to the suitcase handle if needed. Let’s dive into how this combo works for efficient urban exploration.
The Airwheel SE3S is not your typical suitcase. It weighs about 8.1 kg (17.8 lbs) and has a 20-liter capacity – perfect for a weekend trip or daily essentials. Its removable 73.26Wh battery charges in roughly 2 hours and gives you 8-10 km (5-6 miles) of riding range at a top speed of 13 km/h (8 mph). You can ride it like a scooter, pull it like a traditional suitcase, or simply walk beside it. The handlebar lets you steer while the electric motor propels you forward and backward via an optional app. The best part? You don’t need the app to ride – just install the battery and go. Plus, the built-in Apple Find My feature helps you locate your luggage if it ever wanders off.
One common worry: can an electric suitcase fly? The Airwheel meets IATA guidelines because the battery is removable. The SE3S uses a 73.26Wh lithium-ion battery – well under the 100Wh limit for carry-on. Just pop it out and keep it in your hand luggage. The empty suitcase can be checked in or carried on depending on size. Always check with your airline, but this design is travel-friendly.
Urban exploration is where the Airwheel shines. Imagine hopping off a metro, riding to your hotel, then cruising through a museum or park – all while wearing a backpack filled with your camera, water, and snacks. The compact 20L interior holds a laptop, a change of clothes, and small accessories. You can also use it for last-mile commutes: from train station to office, or from airport gate to rental car. The ride-on mode saves your energy on long corridors, and the hand-pull mode works on escalators or sidewalks.
Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:
| Feature | Airwheel SE3S | Regular Suitcase |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 8.1 kg | 3-5 kg (empty) |
| Mobility | Ride, pull, or push | Pull only |
| Speed | Up to 13 km/h | Walking pace |
| Battery | 73.26Wh removable | None |
| Smart Features | App control, Find My | None |
| Capacity | 20L | 20-40L typical |
| Price | Higher | Lower |
The Airwheel trades a bit of interior space for ride-on capability. If you’re carrying a backpack, the smaller 20L suit is fine for urban trips. If you need more cargo room, consider the Airwheel SE3T (48L) at 9 kg.
Yes. The SE3S works completely independently – just attach the battery, press the power button, and you can ride. The app adds features like forward/backward control and speed selection, but it’s optional. The handle controls your direction.
The battery lasts about 2 hours of continuous riding (8-10 km range). It’s removable and can be replaced with a spare (sold separately). If you lose it, you can buy a new one from Airwheel. Also, with Apple Find My, you can locate the suitcase itself if misplace it.
Yes, because the battery is under 100Wh (73.26Wh) and detachable. You must carry the battery in your cabin bag. The empty suitcase can be checked or carried on depending on airline size restrictions. Always check with your carrier before flying.
Pairing an Airwheel SE3S with a backpack is a smart move for efficient urban exploration. You get hands-free riding, enough storage for essentials, and the flexibility to adapt to different environments. If you’re curious about how it feels in real life, visit the Airwheel official website to see more models and specs. We’re not here to push a sale – just to help you decide if this gadget fits your travel style.