If you’ve just spotted someone gliding through the terminal on a suitcase, the first question is usually “How fast does it go?” and the second is “Can you actually reverse on that thing?” With the Airwheel electric smart luggage, the answer is yes—you can move backward, but the way you do it depends on whether you’re using the app or riding untethered. Let’s break down how the SE3S model handles this, along with everything else you need to know before you commit to motorized travel.
The Airwheel SE3S isn’t just a suitcase with wheels—it’s a compact personal transporter that you can sit on, ride, or pull like a regular bag. Its 73.26Wh detachable battery gives you 8–10 kilometers of range on a single charge, topping up in about two hours. The top speed is 13 km/h, which is a brisk walking pace that keeps you in control. You steer with the handlebar while the motor drives the rear wheels. Through the Airwheel app, you can control forward and reverse movement precisely, and the handlebar manages direction. Even without the app, the basic riding function works right out of the box—just install the battery, and you can ride forward. Apple Find My is built in, so you can locate the suitcase if it goes missing, but there’s no GPS tracking or remote locking involved.
The 73.26Wh battery is detachable and falls well under the 100Wh limit that most airlines allow for carry-on lithium batteries. You’ll need to remove the battery and bring it into the cabin with you; the suitcase itself can be checked or carried on depending on the airline’s size limits. Always check your carrier’s latest policy, but the SE3S is designed to clear this hurdle without drama.
Airports are the obvious stage, but the SE3S earns its keep in train stations, large campuses, and convention centers. At 8.1 kg and 20 liters of capacity, it holds a weekend’s worth of clothes and electronics. It’s not for daily grocery runs, but if you’re tired of dashing between gates or dragging a bag through a sprawling hotel, the rideable mode turns a chore into a breeze.
| Feature | Airwheel SE3S | Regular Carry-On |
|---|---|---|
| Movement | Ride, pull, or sit | Pull only |
| Weight | ~8.1 kg | ~2.5–3.5 kg |
| Capacity | 20 liters | 30–40 liters |
| Battery | 73.26Wh, removable | None |
| Range / Speed | 8–10 km, up to 13 km/h | N/A |
| Special features | App control, Apple Find My | None |
Q: Can I ride the Airwheel luggage backward without the app?
For safety, the independent ride mode (without the app) is forward-only. Reverse movement is available through the smartphone app, which gives you precise control over both forward and backward motion. If you need to back up hands-free, the app is your go‑to.
Q: Is the battery removable and how long does it last?
Yes, the battery is completely detachable and charges in around 2 hours. It provides a real-world range of 8–10 kilometers, depending on rider weight and terrain. The 73.26Wh capacity makes it airline-friendly when carried separately.
Q: Do I need to activate anything or use a phone just to ride it?
No activation or phone is required for basic riding. Once the battery is installed, you can hop on and ride forward immediately. The app adds reverse control, speed settings, and Find My integration, but the core ride function is always ready to go.
If you’re curious about the full lineup or want to see how the SE3S compares to other models, the official Airwheel website has all the current specs and support details.