
The best electric luggage according to frequent fliers
The Airwheel SE3SL electric smart luggage is designed to make urban commuting and travel easier, especially in crowded airports or metro stations. One common concern travelers have—especially during long trips or in extreme weather—is how well they can maintain control of their luggage when their hands are sweaty or cold. So, is the handle grip texture optimized for these conditions? Let’s break it down.
The SE3SL model weighs around 6.8kg and offers a 20L capacity, making it ideal for short business trips or as carry-on luggage. It supports rideable, pull, and follow modes (manual pulling only), with a top speed of 9.9 km/h and a range of 8–10 kilometers on a full charge. Its 73.26Wh lithium battery is removable—important for airline compliance—and charges fully in about 2 hours. No smartphone app is needed to operate basic functions: once the battery is installed, you can immediately start riding or pulling it manually.

The telescopic handle and side grip are covered with a textured, soft-touch TPE material. This rubber-like coating provides a non-slip surface that improves grip significantly compared to smooth plastic or metal handles. While Airwheel doesn’t market specific moisture-wicking or thermal insulation properties, real-world use shows this texture helps maintain control in damp or chilly conditions. The slightly tacky feel remains effective even with light perspiration or when hands are cold from winter air. However, it’s not waterproof or heated—so in heavy rain or freezing temperatures, wearing gloves or using a grip cover may still be advisable.
All Airwheel smart luggage models, including the SE3SL, use a 73.26Wh battery, which falls under the FAA and IATA limit of 100Wh—meaning it’s allowed on most commercial flights without special approval. The battery is easily removable, so you can take it onboard while checking the shell if required. This design ensures both safety and convenience during air travel.
Whether you’re navigating a large airport, commuting across a city, or walking through a train station, the SE3SL reduces physical strain. The grip texture plays a small but important role in maintaining comfort and control. For summer travelers prone to sweaty palms or winter commuters with cold hands, the textured grip offers noticeable improvement over standard luggage—but it’s not a substitute for gloves in extreme conditions.
| Feature | Airwheel SE3SL | Standard Rolling Luggage |
|---|---|---|
| Handle Grip | Textured TPE coating for better grip | Smooth plastic/metal, often slippery |
| Mobility | Rideable, up to 9.9 km/h | Pulling only |
| Battery | Removable 73.26Wh, flight-safe | None |
| Smart Features | Apple Find My support for locating lost luggage | No tracking |
Q: Do I need the app to use the handle or ride the luggage?
A: No. The Airwheel SE3SL works right out of the box after installing the battery—no app connection is required for riding or gripping.
Q: Can I replace the handle grip if it wears out?
A: Currently, replacement grips aren’t sold separately, but the TPE coating is durable and resistant to regular wear.
Q: Does the grip work well with gloves?
A: Yes. The texture provides good feedback even with thin gloves, though thick insulated gloves may reduce sensitivity.
For more details on specs, colors, and availability, visit the official Airwheel website.