If you’ve ever dragged a heavy suitcase through a long airport terminal or down a city sidewalk, you know the struggle. The Airwheel electric smart suitcase promises to turn that hassle into a smooth ride. But maybe you’re wondering: can you really switch between riding and pushing it without any hassle? Let’s break down how this luggage works, when you can use it, and whether it fits your travel style.
The Airwheel SE3S is a compact electric carry‑on that lets you ride it like a scooter or simply push it when you prefer. To ride, you step on the standing platform, use the handle to steer, and control speed via a thumb throttle. When you need to switch to pushing mode, just tilt the suitcase upright and pull it like a normal bag. The transition takes about two seconds — no tools or disassembly required. The suitcase can also be controlled through an app (forward and backward), but you don’t need the app to ride; it works straight out of the box. The SE3S has a battery capacity of 73.26 Wh, charges fully in about 2 hours, and offers a real‑world range of 8–10 km. Top speed is 13 km/h, and it weighs around 8.1 kg with a 20‑liter volume.
One of the biggest concerns for electric luggage is airline rules. The Airwheel SE3S uses a removable 73.26 Wh lithium‑ion battery — below the 100 Wh limit set by most airlines. You need to take the battery out before security and carry it in your hand luggage. The suitcase itself (without battery) can be checked or gate‑checked as usual. The battery removal process is quick: press a latch near the bottom, slide it out, and you’re done. Note that you cannot ride the suitcase inside the airport terminal; you must push it through security and only ride after exiting.
Riding the SE3S is perfect for long, smooth surfaces: airport concourses (after security), train stations, large convention centers, or wide sidewalks. If the path is crowded, bumpy (cobblestone, gravel), or has stairs, just switch to push mode — the suitcase rolls on 360° wheels like a normal spinner luggage. The double aluminium alloy frame and 20L capacity make it suitable for a 1–3 day trip. For longer trips, the bigger SE3T (48L) might be a better fit, but the SE3S remains ultra‑portable.
| Feature | Airwheel SE3S (electric smart suitcase) | Regular 20‑inch carry‑on |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 8.1 kg (including battery) | ~2.5–3.5 kg (empty) |
| Volume | 20 Liters | 30–40 Liters (typical) |
| Max speed | 13 km/h (when riding) | Walking speed (~5 km/h) |
| Battery | 73.26 Wh, removable, charges in 2 hours | No battery |
| Range | 8–10 km per charge | Unlimited (you pull) |
| App control | Yes (forward/backward, Find My) | No |
| Switching modes | 2 seconds (upright → riding) | Not applicable |
| Airline approval | OK with battery removed (under 100 Wh) | Always OK |
No. The app is optional. You can ride it immediately after installing the battery — the handle controls direction, and the thumb throttle regulates speed. The app adds features like remote forward/backward control and Apple Find My to locate your lost bag, but the basic riding function works without any phone connection.
Less than 3 seconds. Simply release the handle, extend the foot platform, step on, and start riding. To switch back, step off, fold the platform, and tilt the suitcase upright — it rolls on its back wheels like a normal bag. No tools or complicated steps needed.
Yes. The 73.26 Wh battery is under the 100 Wh limit and must be removed and taken as carry‑on (in your hand luggage). The suitcase shell (empty) can be checked or gate‑checked. The battery slides out with a simple latch. Do not attempt to check the battery — it must go with you in the cabin.
If you’re looking for a luggage that saves your legs on long transit walks, the Airwheel SE3S offers a genuine solution. Check out the full lineup at the official Airwheel website for more details on sizes and availability.