travel duffle bag free

Large Duffle Bag Pattern (FREE) – The BEST Tutorial

Always wanted to know how to make a homemade duffle bag? This step-by-step tutorial with free pattern will show you exactly what to do. Get ready to rock your next adventure in style by making this simple duffle bag, perfect for holding everything!

If you’re anything like me, chances are you love large bags because you want to bring your entire wardrobe with you while traveling. Because well…you just never know when you will need that oversized sweater or that colorful scarf. Sound familiar?

Well today I have a treat for you, because this duffle bag pattern is everything you need to make a large carry-all bag to store your belongings.

• Handmade Duffle with Free Sewing Pattern
• How do you Make a Rectangular Duffle Bag？
• What are the Dimensions of This Bag?
• How Much Fabric Do I need to Make a Duffle Bag?
• What Fabric is Used for Duffle Bag?
• Exterior Fabric
• Fusible Interfacing
• How to Sew a Zipper Pocket?

How to Sew Side Pockets

Sewing front panels together.

• How to Sew Zipper to Duffel Bag

Sewing Lining to Zipper

Sewing side pieces to zipper piece, how to sew bag handles, sewing bag all together.

• Sewing Duffel Bag Lining Together
• How to Sew Shoulder Straps

Handmade Duffle With free sewing pattern

The large duffle bag consists of two zippered pockets on the front and back of the bag. Additionally, there are two side pockets so you can easily slide things in and out for easy access.

The bag has a dual zipper opening with wide access (it opens from side to side). I purposely designed it this way because I want my carry-all bags to have a large opening for ease-of-use.

On top of that, the bag comes with a shoulder strap so that you can wear it across your body. You can, of course, make it without the shoulder strap so the duffle is essentially a giant tote bag to carry around all your belongings.

Since this is a DIY project, you can make it however you want. This is the ABSOLUTE BEST part about sewing your own bags! You get to choose what features you want or don’t want.

How do You Make a Rectangular Duffle Bag?

Follow the step-by-step tutorial below and I will show you exactly how to make this stylish and useful bag. The duffel itself is not difficult to sew. However, it is not a quick sewing project as there are many parts to the bag, including 3 zippers. This sewing project is most suitable for those who have completed other simple sewing projects before.

If this is the first time you are attempting a sewing project, check out the following beginner-friendly sewing projects to help you get you started.

Baby Bandana Bib

Easy Drawstring Bag

Simple Tote Bag

Last Minute Fabric Gift bag with a Gusset

If you are a complete beginner to sewing, these beginner-friendly sewing tutorials are just for you!

• How to Thread a Sewing Machine
• How to Thread and Wind The Bobbin
• 10 Tips to Easily Thread a Sewing Needle
• 19 Essential Hand Sewing Stitches Everyone Needs to Know

What are the Dimensions of Large Duffle Bag?

The front of the handmade duffle bag measures approximately 19.5″ (49.53cm) wide and 12″ (30.48cm) tall. The height of the handle strap is approximately 9″ (22.86cm) .

The side of the duffle bag measures approximately 8″ (20.32cm) at the bottom and 6.5″ (16.51cm) wide along the zipper.

How much Fabric Do I need to make a Duffle Bag

To make a large duffle bag, you will need 1 yard of exterior fabric and 1 yard of lining (0.9 meters each) . You can also choose to make the bag using two types of exterior fabric. In that case, you will need 1/2 yard of each fabric . For a complete list of materials you will need for duffle bag, see MATERIALS below.

What Fabric is Used for Duffel Bags?

You can use any woven fabric you like. Fabrics in the following list are especially suitable for making duffel bags:

• Canvas – Canvas is sturdy, durable and heavy duty. This makes is very suitable as duffle bags usually go through repetitive wear and tear.
• Outdoor fabric – Similar to canvas, outdoor fabric is generally thick and heavy duty. They are also water resistant and some even waterproof, another bonus feature!
• Thick Cotton Fabric – Other thick cottons such as denim and twill are also good choices.
• Vinyl Fabric – Durable, stylish, and will look store-bought. However, recommend using a Heavy Duty Sewing Machine or industrial machine as the fabric pieces are thick and can be difficult to sew.
• Regular Weight Cotton reinforced with batting or interfacing – if you see a lightweight cotton print that you just have to have , reinforce it with fusible fleece or interfacing! Additionally, use canvas fabric as the lining for extra support. This is the option that I used. See STEP-BY-STEP TUTORIAL for how to make a sturdy large-sized duffle bag .
• DUFFLE BAG SEWING PATTERN (Available in the Free MindyMakes Library ) .
• If using one type of fabric: 1 yard (44” wide)
• If using 2 types of fabric: 1 yard (44” wide) of each fabric
• LINING FABRIC : 1 Yard (44” wide) – ideally medium to heavy-weight woven cotton such as canvas, duck cloth, or heavy-duty twill. If wanting to use light weight fabric, you can always fuse interfacing to add stability
• FUSIBLE INTERFACING – 1 Yard
• FUSIBLE FLEECE – 1 Yard. I used Pellon 987F Fusible Fleece . May not need if using medium to heavy-weight canvas or duck cloth for the exterior.
• ONE SIDED FUSIBLE ULTRA FIRM STABILIZER (20”wide) – 2/3 of a yard (20”or 51cm) . I used Pellon 71F Peltex
• 30” DUAL SEPARATING ZIPPER (x1) – I used Coats & Clark Sport Parka Dual Separating Zipper . You can also use a longer zipper and trim down
• 7″ MATCHING ZIPPER (x2)
• TWO 47”(119.38cm) pieces – for bag handles
• ONE 60”(152.4cm) piece – for shoulder strap
• TWO 3″ (7.62cm) pieces – for side panel tabs
• 1.5” WIDE D RINGS (x2) – Also available on Amazon along with swivel hooks and slider
• 1.5” WIDE SWIVEL HOOK S (x2)
• 1.5” WIDE SLIDER (x1)
• SEWING MACHINE
• FABRIC SCISSORS – these Ginghers are my favorite.
• CLEAR RULER – I have the DRITZ See-Through Sewing Ruler
• FABRIC CHALK – These Chaco Liners by Clover are my absolute favorite
• SEWING PINS and SEWING CLIPS
• HAND SEWING NEEDLES
• MATCHING THREAD

DUFFLE BAG PATTERN

For the Large Duffle Bag Sewing Pattern , ALL pattern pieces are available in printable format except the [TOP ZIPPER PIECE] and [BOTTOM FUSIBLE PIECE] pattern. You will need to draw these patterns directly on the fabric . The dimensions of these two pattern pieces are listed below:

• Cut 2 Pieces on Exterior Fabric
• Cut 2 Pieces on Lining Fabric
• BOTTOM FUSIBLE PIECE: 19.5″ x 8″ (49.5 cm x 20.3 cm)

Alternatively, you can also deduct 0.5″ (1.27mm) from entire border of [BOTTOM PIECE] pattern by folding the paper pattern in. This will give you the dimension of [BOTTOM FUSIBLE PIECE] if you prefer not to draw the pattern.

EXTERIOR FABRIC

• FRONT/BACK PIECE (x4)
• MIDDLE PIECE – ZIPPER TOP (x2)*
• MIDDLE PIECE – ZIPPER BOTTOM (x2)*
• BOTTOM PIECE (x1)
• SIDE PIECE (x2)
• SIDE POCKET (x2)*
• TOP ZIPPER PIECE (x2) – draw measurements on fabric and cut out

NOTE: *If you want to self-line the pockets, cut out 4 pieces (instead of 2) for all the pieces marked with an asterisk (*). You won’t need to cut those pieces on the lining then.

LINING FABRIC

• FRONT/BACK PIECE (x2)
• MIDDLE PIECE (x2) – Cut out of exterior fabric if you want self-line the pockets.

FUSIBLE INTERFACING

• FRONT/BACK PIECE (x4) – fusible fleece
• MIDDLE PIECE – ZIPPER TOP (x2) – fusible fleece
• MIDDLE PIECE – ZIPPER BOTTOM (x2) – fusible fleece
• SIDE PIECE (x2) – fusible fleece
• SIDE POCKET (x2) – fusible interfacing
• BOTTOM PIECE (x2) – Cut out 2 pieces measuring 19.5”x 8”(49.5 cm x 20.3 cm) each on Peltex Ultra Firm Stabilizer.
• TOP ZIPPER PIECE (x2) – Fusible fleece . Cut out following instruction in tutorial. There is no paper pattern.

LARGE DUFFLE BAG PATTERN is available in our Free MindyMakes Resource Library , listed under section “D” as Duffle Bag Pattern . Subscribe here to get the password.

How do you make a homemade duffle bag ?

How to sew a zipper pocket.

LEFT: Put zipper right side up. Place [FRONT: CENTER TOP PIECE] above zipper, right side up. Then put [FRONT: CENTER BOTTOM PIECE] below zipper, right side up. RIGHT: Flip [FRONT: CENTER TOP PIECE] over from top to bottom so the wrong side faces up. Match fabric edge with end of zipper, right sides together.

LEFT : Pin fabric to zipper. RIGHT : Flip zipper and fabric (right to left) so that wrong side of zipper faces up.

LEFT : Place [CENTER TOP LINING PIECE] over zipper and exterior fabric, wrong side up. RIGHT : Using a zipper foot, sew fabric/zipper/lining together.

LEFT : Lean seam allowance down towards lining side and edge stitch (red dotted lines) RIGHT : Next, turn fabric so that the right side of zipper is to your right (when looking down from above) and faces up.

LEFT : Pin [FRONT: CENTER BOTTOM PIECE] to zipper, right sides together, matching at the edge. RIGHT : Flip [FRONT: CENTER BOTTOM PIECE] from top to bottom so the right side faces up

Place [CENTER BOTTOM LINING PIECE] over, with wrong side facing up. Stitch together.

Lean seam allowance down towards lining and edge stitch down (see the white stitch line on RIGHT PHOTO)

LEFT : Give it a good press. RIGHT : [CENTER POCKET PIECE] , front view.

LEFT : Turn your zipper to the lining side and give it a good press. RIGHT : [CENTER POCKET PIECE] , back view. Note that the wrong side of zipper faces up.

With wrong side of zipper facing up, place [CENTER POCKET LINING PIECE] over, right sides together. Baste the entire pocket together (black dotted lines).

• You may notice at this point that the [CENTER POCKET PIECE] is a little larger than the lining piece. Trim sides down so that it is the same size as the lining.

Your [CENTER POCKET PIECE] is now finished! Repeat for other side.

LEFT : Sew [SIDE POCKET PIECE] exterior and lining, right sides together (black dotted lines) In this example I self-lined the pockets (used same fabric on exterior and lining) , but feel free to use the lining fabric. RIGHT : Lean seam allowance down towards lining side and stitch down (red dotted lines) at 1/8”to sew line (black dotted lines)

• Press seam allowance down towards lining. Then turn pocket so exterior fabric faces up and press at the sew line.

Your side pocket piece is now done. If you self-lined like I did, keep track that the interior of the pocket is the side with the seam allowance sewn down (red dotted lines). Repeat for other pocket.

Baste Side Pocket to [SIDE BOTTOM PIECE] (red dotted lines). Repeat for other side.

Sew [FRONT SIDE PANEL] pieces to [CENTER POCKET PIECE] , right sides together (black dotted lines).

Press seam allowance down towards [FRONT SIDE PANEL] pieces as shown in photo. Repeat for other side.

How to Sew Zipper to Duffle Bag

Pin [TOP ZIPPER PIECE] to zipper, right sides together, as pictured. Match end of zipper to edge of fabric (red arrows).

LEFT : First, use zipper foot to sew zipper to [TOP ZIPPER PIECE] RIGHT : Second, when you get close to the end of the zipper, remove the fabric + zipper. No need to backstitch as you will stitch over where you stopped in the next step.

NOTE: Ideally, keep the needle in the zipper+fabric, lift the pressor foot, then open the zipper the other way (if using a double zip zipper) and finish stitching to the end of the zipper. However, in my case I wasn’t able to slide the zipper pull under my pressor foot because the pull was too thick (I’m using a parka zipper)

Flip the fabric counterclockwise 180°(red arrow) so the fabric is to your right. Switch zipper foot to the other side. Open the zipper.

Finish stitch zipper, making sure you stitch past where you stopped previously.

Pin other piece of [TOP ZIPPER PIECE] to other side of zipper, right sides together. Stitch together like you just did.

Place [SIDE PIECE] over [ZIPPER PIECE] . matching at the midline. Note that [ZIPPER PIECE] is (likely) going to be wider be than the top edge of [SIDE PIECE] (see where arrows are pointing). We are going to trim [ZIPPER PIECE] down to match the top width of [SIDE PIECE] .

NOTE: If you find that your [SIDE PIECE] and [ZIPPER PIECE] match exactly, no need to trim!

Measure the difference on each side of the [ZIPPER PIECE] versus [SIDE PIECE] . As you can see in the photo, the excess on the left and right sides is not the same.

Trim off the excess along entire strip of [TOP ZIPPER PIECE] . Now it matches the [SIDE PIECE] exactly!

LEFT : Now measure the width of the fabric of [TOP ZIPPER PIECE] on one side of the zipper. Take that measurement (3 and 5/8 in or 85mm) and subtract seam allowance of 1/2 in (12.7mm). In my case I get a new width of 3 and 1/8 in (79mm). Cut two pieces of fusible fleece with the new width and the length of the [TOP ZIPPER PIECE] RIGHT : Fuse fleece onto wrong side of [TOP ZIPPER PIECE] . Repeat for other side.

Turn [TOP ZIPPER PIECE] to right side and press again.

Open up your zipper with right side of exterior fabric facing up. Pin lining as pictured, right sides together, matching lining edge to exterior fabric edge.

Use fabric chalk and mark about 0.5 in(12.7mm) from lining edge. Repeat for other end of [TOP ZIPPER PIECE]

LEFT : Now sew lining to zipper + Exterior Fabric (right sides together), stopping 0.5” short of the edge of the lining. Back stitch at the 0.5” mark. RIGHT : The ends of your [TOP ZIPPER PIECE] will look like the photo. See how the end of lining fabric is not sewn down to the zipper and exterior fabric.

Lean seam allowance towards lining side and edge stitch down, starting about 1.25”(31.75mm) from edge (yellow dotted lines). Make sure to use thread that matches the lining.

Give your [TOP ZIPPER PIECE ] with lining sewn in a good press. Trim any excess lining that extends past the exterior fabric.

How to Sew D-Rings for Shoulder Strap

LEFT : Cut 2 pieces of 1.5” wide webbing three inches (7.6cm) in length each. RIGHT : insert webbing into D ring.

Fold webbing in half over D-ring and baste the ends together (red dotted line)

LEFT : With right side of [TOP ZIPPER PIECE] facing up, pull the zipper slightly away from the edge and place D-ring with webbing at the midpoint. Baste in place (red dotted line). RIGHT : Place [SIDE PIECE] over [TOP ZIPPER PIECE] , right sides together. Dotted line shows D-ring with webbing sandwiched in between. Pin together.

Turn your fabric around so zipper + lining is facing up. Push the un-sewn ends of the lining away from the edge fabric (yellow arrows) as you don’t want to stitch the lining just yet.

First, sew at 1/2” (12.7mm) seam allowance (black dotted line). Next, as you stitch, make sure you pull back the free ends of the lining so you don’t sew on it. Next, point seam allowance down towards [SIDE PIECE] .

LEFT : Edge stitch (red dotted line) seam allowance down 1/8” (3mm) from where you had just sewn (black dotted line). Repeat on the other side. RIGHT : You will end up with [TOP ZIPPER PIECE] sewn to the two [SIDE PIECE] , as pictured. We will call this entire piece [DUFFLE TOP AND SIDE]

LEFT : Fuse Peltex to [DUFFLE BOTTOM] and [DUFFLE BOTTOM LINING] . RIGHT : Pin strap to [DUFFLE FRONT PIECE] and [DUFFLE BACK PIECE] as pictured.

Stitch strap down to [DUFFLE FRONT PIECE] at 1/8” (3mm) from edge of strap. Stop sewing (black dotted lines) about 1”(25mm) from top edge of bag. You will finish sewing the straps in after you sew the [DUFFLE FRONT PIECE] to [TOP ZIPPER PIECE] . Repeat for [DUFFLE BACK PIECE]

• Sew [DUFFLE BOTTOM PIECE] to [DUFFLE BACK PIECE] , right sides together. Repeat for [DUFFLE FRONT PIECE] .

Next, use clips (or pins) to clip the Top Zipper Lining Pieces together so they don’t get in the way when you sew the exterior of the bag together.

Fold [DUFFLE TOP/SIDE PIECE] in half and make small clips on both sides to mark the midline.

Repeat for [DUFFLE FRONT PIECE] and [DUFFLE BACK PIECE] to mark the midline.

On [DUFFLE FRONT PIECE] , mark the midpoint of the rounded corner by folding in half and making a small clip. Repeat on the other rounded corner. Do this on [DUFFLE BACK PIECE] as well.

LEFT : First, measure the distance between the bottom of [DUFFLE FRONT PIECE] to midpoint of rounded corner you just marked. My bag measured about 12.75 in (323.85mm). Next, add 1/2”(12.7mm) seam allowance to that measurement (so mine is now 13.25” or 336.55mm). RIGHT : Use chalk to mark the new measurement (that includes seam allowance) sides of [DUFFLE TOP/SIDE PIECE] , as pictured. Repeat on other end.

Pin/clip [DUFFLE FRONT PIECE] and [DUFFLE BACK PIECE] to [DUFFLE TOP/SIDE PIECE] , right sides together. Make sure to match at all the markings you just made (midline, rounded corner).

I find it easier to use pins to stabilize rounded corners to [ DUFFLE TOP/SIDE PIECE] and use clips for the rest.

On the bottom corners (blue arrows), I find it easier to sew if I first make a diagonal cut that is just shy of the 0.5” box.

Another tip is I find it much easier to pin (and sew) if you first make a few notches around the rounded curve (LEFT PHOTO) as well as around your marking on [DUFFLE TOP/SIDE PIECE] , red lines on RIGHT PHOTO. Just make sure the notches don’t extend past the 0.5” sew line.

Sew [DUFFLE FRONT PIECE] and [DUFFLE BACK PIECE] to [DUFFLE TOP/SIDE PIECE] .

Trim seam allowance down to 1/4”(6.35mm)

Next, turn your bag to the right side and finish stitching the bag handles at the top (red dotted line), making sure to overlap with the black dotted lines (where you had previously sewn). Backstitch.

Sewing Duffle Bag Lining Together

First, remove the clips/pins holding the [ZIPPER PIECE LINING] . Next, close the zipper on the side you will be working on. Finally, pin [SIDE PIECE LINING] to [ZIPPER PIECE LINING] , right sides together.

Sew [ZIPPER PIECE LINING] to [SIDE PIECE LINING] using a zipper foot. Pull the end of the zipper back and out of the way as you sew. Make sure you are sewing the lining only, NOT any of the exterior fabric.

Once you are done, your duffle bag lining will look something like what you see in the LEFT PHOTO. RIGHT : Pin and sew [BOTTOM PIECE LINING] to [SIDE PIECE LINING] , right sides together.

Your duffle bag lining will now look like the photo. Repeat on other side.

Now, sew [FRONT PIECE LINING] and [BACK PIECE LINING] to rest of duffle bag lining (yellow dotted lines). Next, leave an opening about 7-8”at the bottom of the bag on either the FRONT or BACK PIECE LINING (doesn’t matter which one). We will use this opening to turn the bag to the right side in the next step.

Two wrong-side views of your duffle bag . You are almost done!

Turn duffle bag to the right side through the opening in the lining.

Close the opening in the lining using invisible ladder stitch.

Congratulations! Your large duffle bag is now finished!

How to Sew Shoulder Strap

Fold down ends of webbing and stitch about 1/8”(3mm) from fold (black dotted line).

Slide one end of the webbing through the center of the slider (LEFT). Pull it under and through right loop of slider (RIGHT PHOTO) so it’s about 0.25 – 0.5 inches (6-12mm) beyond the slider.

Stitch down end of webbing at 1/8”(3mm) from from previous fold.

• Slide other end of webbing through swivel clip (folded end facing up) and pull over the clip.

Take the end of the webbing to the slider and feed it across and over the center bar of the slider (red arrow).

• Thread the end of the webbing over the second swivel clip and stitch down.

Your shoulder shop is finished!

Aren’t you proud of yourself for finishing this sewing project? I sure am! Especially if this is your first time sewing up such a large bag! Now tote it around and show it off! Don’t be shy. Yes, I made that!

This duffel bag also makes a great DIY present for those traveling enthusiasts in your life. Or as bride and bridesmaid gifts. Your loved ones will be THRILLED to receive such a nice gift!

I’d love to hear in the comments below where you are going with your DIY duffel bag, or who you are making it for!

How to Sew a Large Duffel Bag

A simple duffel bag that is perfect for holding everything for your next getaway.

• DUFFEL BAG SEWING PATTERN
• EXTERIOR FABRIC - 1 Yard (44" Wide) if using one type of fabric, 1/2" each if using 2 different fabrics
• LINING - 1 Yard (44" Wide)
• FUSIBLE INTERFACING - 1 Yard
• FUSIBLE FLEECE - 1 Yard
• ONE SIDED FUSIBLE ULTRA FIRM STABILIZER (20”wide)
• 30” DUAL SEPARATING ZIPPER (x1)
• 7" MATCHING ZIPPER (x2)
• 1.5" WIDE WEBBING in matching color: 4.5 Yards (4.2 meters)
• 1.5” WIDE D RINGS (x2)
• 1.5” WIDE SWIVEL HOOKS (x2)
• ZIPPER FOOT
• FABRIC SCISSORS
• CLEAR RULER
• FABRIC CHALK

Instructions

Before you start, make sure to:

• Cut out all pattern pieces on fabric
• Iron on Fusible interfacing (if using)

HOW TO SEW ZIPPER POCKETS

• Pin [FRONT: CENTER TOP PIECE] and [FRONT: CENTER BOTTOM PIECE] to zipper, right sides together and sew.
• Flip zipper so wrong side faces up.
• Place [CENTER TOP LINING PIECE] and [CENTER BOTTOM LINING PIECE] over, wrong side facing up, and stitch.
• Lean seam allowance down towards lining side and edge stitch. Give it a good press.
• With wrong side of zipper facing up, place [CENTER POCKET LINING PIECE] over, right sides together. Baste the entire pocket together.
• Your [CENTER POCKET PIECE] is now finished! Repeat for other pocket.

HOW TO SEW SIDE POCKETS

• Sew [SIDE POCKET PIECE] exterior and lining, right sides together
• Lean seam allowance down towards lining side and stitch down at 1/8”to sew line.
• Repeat for other pocket

SEWING FRONT PANELS TOGETHER

• Sew [FRONT SIDE PANEL] pieces to [CENTER POCKET PIECE] , right sides together.
• Press seam allowance down towards [FRONT SIDE PANEL] pieces.
• Repeat for other side

HOW TO SEW DUFFEL BAG ZIPPER

• Pin [TOP ZIPPER PIECE] to zipper, right sides together. Match end of zipper to edge of fabric.
• Sew zipper to [TOP ZIPPER PIECE], then repeat and sew zipper to [BOTTOM ZIPPER PIECE]
• Place [SIDE PIECE] over [ZIPPER PIECE] . matching at the mid line. Trim [ZIPPER PIECE] down to match the top width of [SIDE PIECE] if necessary.
• Measure width of the fabric of [TOP ZIPPER PIECE] on one side of the zipper. Take that measurement and subtract seam allowance of 1/2 in (12.7mm).
• Cut two pieces of fusible fleece with the new width. Length is same as [TOP ZIPPER PIECE]
• Fuse fleece onto wrong side of [TOP ZIPPER PIECE] and [BOTTOM ZIPPER PIECE]

SEWING LINING TO ZIPPER

• Open up your zipper. Pin lining to exterior fabric, right sides together.
• Use fabric chalk and mark about 0.5 in(12.7mm) from lining edge.
• Sew lining to zipper + Exterior Fabric (right sides together), stopping 0.5” short of the edge of the lining. Back stitch at the 0.5” mark.
• Lean seam allowance towards lining side and edge stitch down, starting about 1.25”(31.75mm) from edge.
• Give your fabric a good press. Trim any excess lining that extends past the exterior fabric.

SEWING SIDE PIECE TO ZIPPER PIECE

• Pin [TOP ZIPPER PIECE] to [SIDE PIECE] , right sides together.*
• Sew at 1/2” (12.7mm) seam allowance**.
• Point seam allowance down towards [SIDE PIECE] and edge stitch.
• Repeat on other side.

SEWING BAG HANDLES

• Pin strap to [DUFFEL FRONT PIECE] and [DUFFEL BACK PIECE].
• Stitch strap down to [DUFFEL FRONT PIECE] at 1/8” (3mm) from edge of strap. Stop sewing about 1”(25mm) from top edge of bag.***
• Repeat on other side

SEWING BAG ALL TOGETHER

• Use clips (or pins) to clip the Top Zipper Lining Pieces together so they don’t get in the way when you sew the exterior of the bag together.
• Mark mid line of [DUFFLE TOP/SIDE PIECE], [DUFFLE FRONT PIECE] and [DUFFLE BACK PIECE]****
• Mark also the midpoint of rounded curve on Duffel Front and Back Piece.
• Pin [DUFFEL TOP/SIDE PIECE] to {DUFFEL FRONT PIECE] and [DUFFEL BACK PIECE], matching at the midpoints.
• Sew front and back of bag to [DUFFLE TOP/SIDE PIECE], easing at the rounded corners.
• Trim seam allowance down to 1/4”(6.35mm).
• Turn bag to the right side and finish stitching the bag handles at the top

SEWING BAG LINING TOGETHER

• Remove clips/pins holding the [ZIPPER PIECE LINING]
• Close the zipper on the side you will be working on.
• Pin [SIDE PIECE LINING] to [ZIPPER PIECE LINING] , right sides together.
• Sew [ZIPPER PIECE LINING] to [SIDE PIECE LINING] , pulling the end of the zipper back and out of the way as you sew*****
• Pin and sew [BOTTOM PIECE LINING] to [SIDE PIECE LINING] , right sides together.
• Sew [FRONT PIECE LINING] and [BACK PIECE LINING] to rest of duffle bag lining , easing at the rounded corners. Make sure to leave an opening about 7-8”at the bottom of the bag on either the FRONT or BACK PIECE LINING (doesn’t matter which one).
• Turn bag to the right side through the opening.
• Use Invisible ladder Stitch to close the opening and your bag is finished!

HOW TO SEW SHOULDER STRAP

• Fold down ends of webbing and stitch about 1/8”(3mm) from fold.
• Slide one end of the webbing through the center of the slider. Pull it under and through right loop of slider so it’s about 0.25 – 0.5 inches (6-12mm) beyond the slider.
• Stitch down end of webbing at 1/8”(3mm) from from previous fold.
• Take the end of the webbing to the slider and feed it across and over the center bar of the slider.
• Shoulder strap is finished.
• Clip shoulder strap to duffel bag and adjust for length as necessary.

*Pin the unsewn ends of the lining down as you don’t want to stitch this part down just yet.

**make sure you pull back the free ends of the lining so you don’t sew on it

***You will finish sewing the straps in at a later step

**** Do this by folding your fabric in half lengthwise and making two small notches on both ends of the fold

*****Make sure you are sewing the lining only, NOT any of the exterior fabric.

LARGE DUFFLE BAG PATTERN is available in the FREE MINDYMAKES RESOURCE LIBRARY . To get access, SUBSCRIBE NOW .

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Always wanted to learn how to make a bunny rabbit out of fabric? This easy stuffed bunny sewing pattern and tutorial will teach you exactly how to do that. Step-by-step instructions is great for all sewing levels! Table of Contents How Do You Make a Simple Bunny What are the Dimensions of Stuffed Bunny? Materials…

How to Make an Easy 3D Felt Christmas Tree (Free Pattern)

This DIY felt Christmas tree for toddlers is fun and easy to make! Step by step tutorial includes printable tree pattern as well as patterns for making no sew felt Christmas ornament. Great way to keep the little ones busy this holiday season! Table of Contents How Do You Make a Felt Christmas Tree For…

How to Make a Reusable Grocery Bag (Free Pattern)

Always wanted to know how to make a grocery bag out of fabric? Free grocery bag pattern with step-by-step tutorial will show you exactly how to make a fully lined grocery bag that also doubles as a shopping bag! Table of Contents Simple Grocery Bag Pattern What is the Best Material For Reusable Grocery Bags?…

11 Comments

This is so excellent. Thank you so much for providing this free pattern. I am part way through constructing my bag and it is turning out beautifully. I think the step for attaching the d rings for the shoulder strap is missing from the instructions. Thought you would want to know!

Yes, thank you for letting me know! I’ve updated the post so it has the instructions for attaching D-rings for the shoulder straps. Thanks again so much!

Great directions and visuals!!! The one thing I can’t find and when and how to add the D-rings for the shoulder strap.

Sorry about that! The post has been updated to include the instructions for adding D-rings. Hope that helps!

I am using 2 different pieces of fabric and I can’t seem to lay out the patterns to fit on a 1/2 yard. The pieces colored blue don’t seem to fit on a 1/2 yard. What am I doing wrong?

How wide is your 1/2″ yard of fabric? Is it at least 44″ wide?

The problem I have is with getting 4 pieces of the front piece A on the outer fabric. I can only get 2 pieces Thanks for your help.

Oh my, there is a correction!!! With 1/2 yard you will be able to get Front/Back Piece (x4), Middle Piece – Zipper Top (x2), and side piece (x2). The bottom piece (x1) will need to be cut out of a different fabric. If you want to cut the bottom piece out of the same fabric as well, you will need 1 yard of the same fabric. I’ve updated the correction in the post. Sorry about that. Hope this helps!

The shortage arises when I need to get 4 front piece A of the outer fabric. I can only get 2 of this piece. Thanks for your help.

Just finished the bag. It came out great. Thanks for posting the tutorial and written directions online. I made it for a friend that is retiring and he loved it. Thanks again!

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12 Travel Bag Patterns

Stacy Fisher is an expert on crafting, sewing, and frugal finds, sharing her knowledge of hands-on DIY creations, finding freebies, and budgeting. Stacy was a guest on "The Dr. Oz Show" and featured in Woman's World Magazine. She has nearly two decades of writing and editing experience.

  Delia Creates

These travel bag patterns are the perfect solution to keeping organized on your next vacation, weekend trip, or a day out in the sun. You'll find free patterns so you can DIY your own duffel bag, tote, overnight bag, jewelry roll, tote bag , and more.

All of these travel bag patterns have everything you need to sew up a new bag for you or the kids. You'll find materials and supply lists, step-by-step assembly instructions, and finishing directions that will make your bag look awesome and be ready to use on your next trip.

A Beautiful Mess

This gym bag can be used for your next workout but it also makes a great travel bag. It's a roomy bag so you can use it at the beach, on your next weekend getaway, or any other time you need a dependable bag to use. A side pocket is perfect for keeping track of smaller belongings.

Gym Bag from A Beautiful Mess

The Big Beach Bag

Oh Oh Deco  

If your next adventure takes you to the beach, you're going to need a travel bag pattern to hold everything you need for a day on the sand. This big beach bag will hold everything you need for your day out, beach towels, toys, books, sunscreen, and anything else you want to bring. There's also a small pocket on the outside of the bag, perfect for holding sunglasses or something else you don't want to lose.

The Big Beach Bag from Oh Oh Deco

Weekender Bag

  Delia Creates

If you're headed out for an overnight or weekend trip, this weekender bag will hold everything you need. It's a large duffel style bag that features leather handles and a crossbody strap, making it easy to haul wherever you're going. There's an inside zippered pocket which is great for storing smaller items.

Weekender Bag from Delia Creates

Drawstring Travel Bag

These drawstring travel bags can be used for just about anything, from makeup to books. They're medium-sized, making them great to use on their own or as an extra bag you throw into a bigger bag to keep everything organized. Since they're drawstring, they're easy to use but will still keep your belongings secure.

Drawstring Travel Bag from Sew DIY

Large Tote Bag with Pockets

The Spruce Crafts

No matter what type of trip you are taking, you'll want to have a large bag that can hold lots of stuff, especially if you have kids. This large tote bag is perfect for road trips or a day out at the beach. Secure straps and a large pocket are just some of the highlights of this bag.

Large Tote Bag with Pockets from The Spruce Crafts

Laminated Toiletry Travel Bag

This travel bag pattern sews up a toiletry bag that you can use for all your travel toiletries, makeup, and any other small items. It's made with laminated fabric, making it a breeze to wipe away any spills or messes.

Laminated Toiletry Travel Bag from Sew 4 Home

Polka Dot Chair

This adorable makeup bag is perfect for toting around your makeup or toiletries. It's an oversized toiletry bag so you can fit everything you need in it. You don't have to use it just for makeup either, it would work well for backseat toy bags for the kids on your next road trip.

Makeup Bag from Polka Dot Chair

Quilted Travel Duffle

Sew 4 Home  

This quilted travel duffle has a sleeve on the bag so it fits perfectly on top of a rolling suitcase. Features of this travel bag pattern include handles, a detachable cross-body strap, a secure front pocket, and several interior divided pockets to keep everything in its place.

Quilted Travel Duffle from Sew 4 Home

Wash and Wear Travel Bag

  The Crafty Gentleman

Here's a travel bag pattern that will keep you organized while you're on your vacation. The bag is divided into two sections, one for clean clothes and the other for dirty clothes. It's meant to be used for socks and underwear, but you could make several of them to organize all your clothes.

Wash and Wear Travel Bag from The Crafty Gentleman

Wet Swimsuit Bag

Make It & Love It  

This travel bag is for a wet swimsuit bag that can be used to keep your wet swimsuit separate from all your other belongings. It's perfect for throwing in a larger bag that you'll take to the beach or pool. The inside of the bag is lined with a waterproof fabric, making it perfect for swimsuits or wet clothes.

Wet Swimsuit Bag from Make It & Love It

Leather Jewelry Roll

  The Merrythought

If you have some jewelry you'd like to take on your travels, consider making this leather jewelry roll. It has a place for earrings, necklaces, rings, and pocket that holds other small jewelry. Simply roll it up when you're finished using it and tie with the leather strips to keep it all in its place.

Leather Jewelry Roll from The Merrythought

Travel Bag for Kids

  Ginger Snap Crafts

If you're travelling with kids, you'll want to keep them organized too. They'll love this tote bag that features their name and a picture of what they love. It uses an already made canvas tote, so it's a quick project that couldn't be easier.

Travel Bag for Kids from Ginger Snap Crafts

More from The Spruce Crafts

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Up Your Bag Game with the Cargo Duffle 2 – Get the Free PDF Pattern

Sew a professional-looking travel bag in a weekend and travel with it the next!

The Cargo Duffle 2, a free sewing project from Robert Kaufman Fabric Company, presents a compelling challenge for sewing enthusiasts. Designed by Anna Graham, author of " Handmade Style – 23 Must-Have Basics to Stitch, Use, and Wear ," this project enables sewers to craft a functional and fashionable duffle bag, suitable for both travel and daily use. The pattern, available as a downloadable PDF, guides you through creating a bag with dimensions of 18" x 11" x 6", featuring exterior pockets with snap closures. Requiring various fabrics and materials, this project is perfect for showcasing sewing skills and creativity, culminating in a practical, customizable, and durable travel bag . Check out the free video tutorial at the bottom of this post for adding the lining to a Cargo 2 duffle bag. Skill level: experienced intermediate .

Here are some quick tips for successfully sewing your own Cargo Duffle 2 bag:

Use a larger needle: Use a needle of larger size for better handling of thicker fabrics.

Attach pocket snaps first: Before sewing them onto the front panel, add the snaps to the pockets .

Opt for an alternative to batting: Choose a substitute material instead of traditional batting for a different feel or look such as By Annie Soft and Stable Fabric .

Ensure your zipper has a stopper: Check that the zipper includes a stopper at the end to prevent it from sliding off.

Cargo Duffle Lining - A Free Sewing Video Tutorial:

This video tutorial shows you how to sew your lining right into your Cargo 2 Duffle.

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The fabric used to make the Cargo Duffle 2 Bag below is called Shimmer, designed by Jennifer Sampou .  

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Free Weekender Duffle Bag Pattern

Looking for a nice bag to pack a few items for a weekend getaway? This free weekender duffle bag pattern can help you with that.

Time To Complete: 2-3 Hours Difficulty: Intermediate

What You Will Need to DIY Your Own Free Weekender Duffle Bag Pattern

• 1 yard of cotton
• 1 yard of vinyl
• Pellon fusible interfacing 808
• 1 yard canvas or an alternative structured lining material
• 18-inch zipper
• Wonder clips

Class and style don’t have to cost you an arm and a leg. This simple and free duffle bag pattern caters to everything you need.

The bag is spacious with a nice finish that not only provides you with enough space for your items but also a fashion forward look that ensures you capture all the attention.

This is a great pattern for intermediate and advanced sewers but with the help of the simple and crystal clear instructions, beginners can also take a crack at the pattern with plenty of success.

The pattern also includes a plethora of pictures at each stage of the process to help guide you along as you make the bag. It’s also possible to customize the tote using other fabrics.

About Karen

Hi! My name's Karen and welcome to my blog! I’ve been sewing with my mother from the age of 7 and have never looked back! I love doing nothing better than trying out new patterns.

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Sewing Information, Advice, How-to

Home >> Free Sewing Patterns >> Free Bag Patterns >> Free Weekender Bag Patterns

20 FREE Weekender Bag Patterns

**Please scroll down the page for the links to the free patterns**

Why spend a hundred dollars or more on a designer fabric travel bag when you can make your own for a fraction of the cost?

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Here you'll find a collection of twenty free weekender bag patterns & tutorials gathered from all over the web! So if you're looking to sew a strong, sturdy bag for overnight travel, you've come to the right place.

With just enough room for toiletries and a change of clothes , a compact bag like this is just the right size for an overnight getaway or a weekend trip to Grandma's. And any of these bags would also make a great gym, sport, or dance bag.

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Keep in mind though that most of these bag patterns aren't for the faint of heart. Most require somewhat complex construction techniques consisting of many pattern pieces, lots of steps, the insertion of one or more zippers, inner pockets and compartments, linings, and require working with heavy, bulky fabrics - things that can be challenging even for a experienced seamstress. Therefore, a bag like this probably wouldn't be a good sewing project for a beginner.

But of course, the payoff for tackling a involved project like this is not only getting to choose your fabrics, but getting to customize your bag as you'd like and to experience the satisfaction of a completed project.

To give you bag a more professional look, consider adding hardware such as rivets, buckles, or metal snaps. Also, leather trim and piping can give your bag a more finished look. And consider adding a detachable shoulder strap to your bag. This way, you'll be able to carry it like a piece of luggage and not have a long strap that could get caught on things while traveling. And consider treating the outside of your finished bag with a Scotchgard-type stain repellent to help protect it from stains.

• You may also like:
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• Free Purse Patterns
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• Free Fabric Organizer Patterns
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• Free Drawstring Bag Patterns
• Free Wine Bag Patterns
• Free Fabric Basket Patterns
• Free Beach Bag Patterns
• Free Tablet Sleeve Patterns

Please note: Most of the links below will take you to another website.

Free Weekender Bag Patterns

Pattern above from:

Sew Simple Home

Delia Creates

Craft Foxes

The Stitching Scientist

Birch Fabrics

Mommy by Day...

The Weekend Designer

A Beautiful Mess

Internet Archive

Free Spirit Fabrics

Robert Kaufman Fabrics

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How to Make a Hamilton Duffle Bag - Free Bag Making Tutorial

About this tutorial.

Welcome to the beginning of Misty's Travel Bag Series! To kick off this series, Misty is teaming up with Jessica Barrera of Sallie Tomato to make the Hamilton Duffle Bag. Watch and learn as this talented pair use Art Gallery Fabrics to make the stylish and roomy travel bag inspired by quilting destination, Hamilton, MO!

Tutorial Resources

The supplies list.

Hamilton Travel Duffle Bag Pattern

Hamilton Travel Duffle Kit - Rustic Natural Cork

Hamilton Travel Duffle Kit - Black Faux Leather

Capri - Regata Blue Yardage

Pellon Shape-Flex Fusible Interfacing White Yardage

1-1/2" Polypro Purse Strapping - Stone

1-1/2" Polypro Purse Strapping - Black

Black Pebble Faux Leather - 1/2 Yard Cut

Natural Pro Cork Fabric - 1/2 Yard Cut

Bosal Craf-Tex Plus - 20" x 36"

Sallie Tomato #5 Nylon Zipper Tape & Pulls - Beige with Antique Coil

Sallie Tomato #5 Nylon Zipper Tape & Pulls - Black with Gunmetal Coil

Bosal In-R-Form Plus Double Sided Fusible Foam Stabilizer City Bag Midtown- 36" x 58"

Sallie Tomato Small Chicago Screws 6mm - Set of 12 Nickel

Sallie Tomato Level 3 Basic Hardware Kit - 1-1/2" Nickel

Sallie Tomato 1-1/2" D-Rings - Set of Four Nickel

Sallie Tomato Level 1 Basic Hardware Kit - 1-1/2" Nickel

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9 Duffle Bag Pattern Options To Make You Want To Travel

Have you ever noticed that when you shop for an overnight or weekend duffle bag, you find just a few options, usually a simple nylon bag with a sports brand printed on it? I don’t know about you, but when I like my traveling items to have a little personality.

In this post, we will discuss creating a weekend bag from a duffle bag pattern. I will also show you some wonderful weekend bag patterns that I think you will love. 

Page Contents

What Fabric Is Used For Duffle Bags?

Typically, sporty duffle bags are made from woven nylon fabric. Vera Bradley bags are made with 100% cotton and are popular for traveling.

However, what if you want to make your own Vera Bradley-inspired weekend duffle bag? For many of us (myself included,) the idea of creating our traveling bags from a duffle bag sewing pattern is tempting and intriguing.

When choosing fabric for a travel bag, you want something that will be sturdy and strong with little to no stretch. This will ensure the bag keeps its shape and won’t tear or fall apart.

If you want to make your duffle bag, I suggest using one of the following fabrics to ensure your bag will last a long time and hold up to the inevitable trials and tribulations of travel. 

• 100% Quilting Cotton

How To Make a Duffle Bag

I plan on doing a full tutorial later on, but right now, I’ll give you some basic steps to create a duffle bag from scratch. I am a big fan of the style of Vera Bradley bags. However, most of the prints just aren’t my style. These steps will help you create your quilted duffle bag for travel. 

Step 1: Choose a pattern

There are hundreds of duffle bag patterns available on the market. Here are some things to consider when choosing a pattern.

• How many pockets will the bag have?
• How is it enclosed?
• Does it have separate compartments?
• What is the skill level?
• Does it come with templates?
• Will the bag have a lining?

Choose a pattern that fits your set criteria regarding skill level, functionality, and style. 

Step 2: Follow the pattern instructions.

Any pattern you choose will have instructions on cutting and piecing the fabric. If you select a pattern that doesn’t include quilting the outside of the bag and want to have that extra design element, I suggest cutting out the individual pieces, quilting them, and then piecing the bag together. 

To quilt the individual pieces, take the bag fabric, batting, and a “backing” and make the quilt sandwich. Quilt as desired. Straight line quilting looks great on large bags and gives it a beautiful, modern look.

Tip: I suggest using muslin for the backing because it is cheap and sturdy. It will add a layer of strength to the bag’s structure.

Once you have quilted the pieces you want quilted, continue following the pattern instructions to complete the shell of the bag.

Step 3: Create the lining and inside of the bag

Again, the pattern should have the instructions for adding pockets, compartments and lining to the bag. If you don’t want a lining in your bag and just want it to be a large open bag, you can skip this step entirely.

Step 4: Add the straps

Create your straps via the pattern instructions and add them to the bag. If the bag has a lining, you will need to make sure when you add the straps that, you conceal the raw edges inside the lining.

If there is no lining, fold the ends of the straps and attach them to the bag, ensuring that the raw edges are concealed under the strap. 

And there you have your completed bag! Enjoy! 

How Long Should a Duffle Bag Strap Be?

The length of the straps for your duffle bag will depend on where you will attach the straps and how tall you are. As a good rule of thumb, duffle bag straps should be around 30” long.

The great idea is to use a fabric measuring tape and drape it over your shoulder to see where 30” lands on you. Depending on where it hits, you can add or subtract a few inches to make it the perfect size.

9 Easy Duffle Bag Sewing Pattern Ideas

I searched across the interwebs to find nine unique patterns that I think would make beautiful weekender bags. I tried not to include bags that look incredibly similar to give you various style choices. Enjoy!

• Delia Creates’ Weekender Bag Tutorial

Here is an in-depth sewing tutorial on making this beautiful zipper duffle bag. This tutorial shows you how to piece the bag together, add zipper pockets, and two types of solid leather straps. You can easily use this tutorial to create a unique quilted weekend duffle bag that will last for years. 

The finished size of the bag is 15 ½”x 23 ½”.

• Patchwork Rainbow Duffle Bag

If you love quilts, you will love this quilted duffle bag from The Sewing Chick. She used Simplicity pattern #2600 to create this beautiful bag. The designer made some tweaks to the pattern, which she documents in her blog post, and added plenty of fun, quilty goodness to the design. 

The finished size of this bag is 12”x24”. 

• Quilted Travel Duffle

Here is an extremely detailed, well-written tutorial on making this adorable duffle bag. This bag was designed to fit the carry-on luggage handle, making it perfect for travel. This bag has multiple pouches and pockets to store everything you need for your next trip. The tutorial also includes comprehensive photos of each step if you are more of a visual learner.

The finished size of this bag is 12”x18”.

• Favorite Overnight Duffle

Here is another fabulous free tutorial + pattern from Sew4Home. This is a slightly smaller duffle bag than the other we’ve looked at so far, but sometimes you don’t need a massive bag for an overnight stay. This tutorial includes free printable templates and instructions on creating decorative straps with your sewing machine. 

The finished bag will measure 15”x8 ½”.

• Colorful Patchwork Duffle Bag

 Jeni Baker from In Color Order created this beautiful duffle bag. She purchased the pattern Holiday in London Duffle Bag by Bari J to construct this bag; however, she did make some changes to the original pattern to accommodate using quilt-as-you-go methods to make this patchwork design. She goes through the details of how she made each bag part, and I think it looks great!

• Cargo Duffle Bag Pattern

Here is a beautiful free pattern from Anna Graham of Noodle-Head.com. This pattern includes easy-to-follow instructions with detailed images of each step to help you along the way. Anyone can use this pattern, from a confident beginner to a seasoned professional sewist, and it will make a fun project for everybody.

The finished duffle bag will measure 18”x11”.

• The Saturday Bag

Melissa designed an adorable round duffle bag from Polka Dot Chair. This is an excellent beginner duffle bag project and can be put together in just a few hours. The pattern includes three sizes to choose from including:

• Small- 14”x7”
• Medium- 16”x9”
• Large- 19”x11”

It would be SO cute if you made “mommy and me” duffles for you and your little ones!

• Black and White Duffle Bag

The designer of this classic duffle bag used a modern wide striped black and white fabric that gives this duffle a classy vibe. With the link provided, you will find a printable template and YouTube video tutorial that will take you step-by-step on how to make this fun bag. I could not find the exact measurements of the final bag, but it looks like a large duffle bag from the photos and video tutorial. 

• Happy Dance Duffle

This gorgeous duffle bag made by Brienne Moody is jaw-dropping! She used the free pattern from #6 of our list to create this beautiful bag but put her spin on it using leather for the bottom and side gusset pockets. She did such a great job making the pattern her own; I just had to share this one! 

There we have it! Nine beautifully unique duffle bag pattern ideas to inspire you to create something for your next out-of-town vacation. I know I want to make one now! How about you? Which pattern caught your eye? Let me know in the comments below, and have a beautiful day!

Interested in making some fun toys for your cats? Check out my post on DIY Felt Cat Toys !

Happy Stitching!

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Home » Gear » best travel duffel bags

Best Travel Duffel Bags – Discover the Art of the Duffel Carry

Most people tend to travel with a suitcase or backpack, but we’re here to review the best duffel bags and highlight their many advantages.

Now that big outdoor brands like Marmot, The North Face, and Patagonia have put their know-how and years of experience into this marketplace, the duffel bag has been revolutionized, no longer just an oversized bag to get from point A to point B.

Even the simplest travel duffel, however, have their advantages. For one, they’re the best option if you are traveling with bulkier items such as snow boots, life jackets, or camping gear.

All of that being said, not all duffel bags are created equal. Whether you need a bag for your next adventure or simply a sleek bag to travel for work, we’ve reviewed dozens and dozens of duffels and compiled a list of the top ones on the market.

So if you think your luggage is due for an upgrade, check out our comprehensive reviews of the  best travel duffel bags around, and get yourself a duffel worthy of broke backpackers, adventurers, vacationers alike! We’ve got everything from duffel bags with compartments, those with backpack straps and weather resistant numbers too!

So, ya’ll want to find out what THE best travel duffel bag is, you’re in the right place! Let’s go!

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

Quick Answer: The Best Travel Duffel Bags on the Market

Top picks of the best travel duffel bags, how to choose a travel duffel bag, how we tested these duffel bags, the best travel duffel bags – comparison table, faq about the best travel duffel bags, what is the best travel duffel bag – final thoughts.

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• Osprey Transporter Expedition Duffel – The Overall Best Duffel Bag
• Nomatic Travel Bag – High-Utility Backpack Meets Duffel Bag
• Monarc Settra Duffel Backpack – Best Eco Duffel/Backpack
• REI Co-op Big Haul Recycled Rolling Duffel – Best Travel Duffel Bag with Wheels
• Patagonia Black Hole – Best Carry on Travel Duffel Bag
• Kodiak Leather 60l Weekender – Best Men’s Leather Duffel Bag
• Under Armour Women’s UA Motivator Duffle Sport Bag – Best Women’s Travel Duffel Bag
• UNIQUEBELLA Suit Travel Duffel – Best Business Travel Duffel Bag
• The North Face Base Camp Duffel – Best Duffel Bag for Expeditions
• The Classic Duffle by Mahi Best Small Travel Duffel Bag
• Nemo Double Haul Convertible – Best Packable Duffel

Osprey Transporter Expedition Duffel

• Price: > $160
• > Stowable padded backpack straps
• > Rain flaps

Nomatic Travel Bag

• Price: > $289.99
• > Highly-functional backpack with a duffel mode
• > Durable and modern traveler equipped

Monarc Setra Duffel Backpack

• Price: > $175
• > Carry on Compliant
• > Made from recycled bottles

REI Co-op Big Haul Recycled Rolling Duffel – 30

• Price: > $279
• > Integrated wheels
• > Large for longer trips

Patagonia Black Hole Duffle

• Price: > $159
• > Backpack handles and grab handles
• > Nice and light

Kodiak 60l Weekender

• Price: > $459
• > High quality leather
• > Roomy and spacious

Under Armour Women’s UA Motivator Duffle Sport Bag

• Price: > $42
• > Lightweight
• > Water Resistant

UNIQUEBELLA Suit Travel Duffel

• Price: > $65.99
• > Rolls out flat to take suits
• > Wrinkle-free clothes storage

The North Face Base Camp Duffel

• > Just 4 lbs in weight
• > Come with backpack straps

MAHI Leather Duffle

• Price: > $194.25
• > Compact and 28L
• > Tons of organizational pockets

NEMO Double Haul Convertible

• Price: > $180
• > Comes with Tote Back!
• > Durable and Packable

REI is one of America’s biggest and most-loved outdoor gear retailers.

Now, for just $30, get a lifetime membership that entitles you to 10% OFF on most items, access to their trade-in scheme and discount rentals .

Overall Best Duffel Bag – Osprey Transporter Expedition Duffel

The Osprey Transporter Expedition Duffel offers its users the best of both worlds. It has all the features that drew you to a travel duffel bag in the first place, along with a comfortable set of stowable, padded shoulder straps if you have to carry it for a longer period.

This duffel’s zippers are lockable, giving added peace of mind if and when you need to let it out of your eye line – such as on an aircraft or in a hostel room – and also has the bonus of a padded internal compartment to keep your delicate tech safe while on the move.

What’s more, the quickest of touches will convince you of the long-lasting durability of the materials used, together with a rain flap to keep precipitation from ruining your time away!

• Stowable padded backpack straps
• Zips can be locked
• Padded compartment for tech
• Not fully waterproof
• 40 liter might be too small for some
• Not guaranteed to be carry-on compliant
• Rigid construction

How The Osprey Transporter Tested

I have personally tested dozens of Osprey travel packs now and its rare I encounter one that I don’t love. We took the transporter on a road trip across the Atlantique region of France and packed it full of enough gear for 2 people. It felt very strong, rigid and weatherproof and I have no doubt that it would withstand a goos few years of abuse. The organisational layout is highly intuitive and we found it easy to pack, and retrieve our gear when we needed it.

In terms of downsides, I am just not all that sure about how much I like backpack /duffel hybrids and this one does feel slightly awkward to me when I wore it as a backpack. Sure, the backpack straps do pack away but this adds to the weight and I did feel it.

Is the Osprey Transporter Expedition Duffel for me?

If you love the idea of a travel duffel bag but worry about how you’re going to transport it further distances, then the Osprey Transporter Expedition Duffel has it all figured out thanks to the incorporated backpack straps! It’s one of the reasons it stands out amongst the other duffel bags.

The padded tech compartment is a great addition, as is the ability to lock the zips!

Our team rated this as their “best travel duffel backpack”, which means kinda what it says, a duffel that works just as well as a backpack and they love that versatility. They felt it had most of the features of some of the best Osprey backpacks whilst having the ability to be used as a duffel.

They really love that it opens up more like a clamshell backpack into a super roomy interior. As an added bonus the skate rats on the team loved that it came in well as a travel skateboard bag even if it wasn’t explicitly designed that way.

Duffel Bag Meets High-Utility Backpack – Nomatic Travel Bag

This duffel bag is not purely a duffel bag. In fact, it’s not even primarily a duffel bag. And that’s why we like it so damn much!

The Nomatic Travel Bag is a backpack for the modern-day traveller. It’s loaded on the organization without an excess of empty space for unnecessary packing. Tech gear gets sleeves, shoes and dirty laundry get dedicated compartments, and everything else gets a space too!

But the best part is that if you flip this bad boy over and modify the straps, you have a completely functional duffel bag! Could we say it’s like a transformer. Yes, it most certainly is.

It functions as a very structured duffel bag with a lot of interior organisation, however, to be totally honest, that’s kinda rad!

• 40 L of pure organizational storage
• Qualifies for carry-on luggage
• Incredibly durable design
• Doubles as a backpack!
• Not a traditional duffel bag
• Kind of cube-like in duffel-mode
• Premium pricing
• Not the right choice for everyone

How The Nomatic Travel Bag Tested

We’re pretty intimate with the Nomatic travel bag now and it has accompanied various team members all over the world. We love its high quality materials and the fact it looks and feels new even after a year of use. We always make the most of its packing and organisational capabilities where everything has its right place. In fact, the Nomatic travel bag performed so well during a recent trip to Barcelona that a street thug could not help but steal it from us…is there any higher accolade that can be bestowed upon a bag?!

Is the Nomatic Travel Bag for me?

For people seeking a traditional duffel bag, no. However, for those that dig the option to wear it as a backpack and travel for work and with a certain selection of gear they need to keep protected (eg. a laptop and tablet), it’s perfect.

Our team are really massive fans of this bag and for a few different reasons. Firstly, the actual functionality between using it as a duffel and a backpack is second to none and it really means this bag can be used in so many different situations. On top of that its organisational features were a real selling point for our team.

If you’re on the fence, we’d recommend checking out the Nomatic Travel Bag review .

Best Eco Duffel/Backpack – Monarc Settra Duffel Backpack

The realities of travel can really take their toll on the planet. It’s no surprise that Ecological and Sustainable travel initiatives are now really gaining momentum. The Monarc 2-in-1 Duffle-Backpack is the world’s first backpack made from 100% recycled bottles and the producers have been awarded a highly coveted “plastic negative” rating.

But here this, not only is this backpack totally eco-friendly but it’s also a bloody great pack. Firstly, its 2-1 concept design means it can be worn as a backpack or carried as a duffel using the comfortable handle/ shoulder strap. If you do wear it on your bag, there are adjustable straps to help carry the weight. I really love this pack, even though I am not a HUGE duffel fan I have now had this bag for years and tested it extensively.

• Made from recycled plastic bottles
• TSA Carry-on compliant
• 2 in 1 Duffel and Backpack!
• Kinda heavy
• No compression straps

How The Monarc Settra Tested

I have had this pack for over a year now and so Ive tested it extensively. It performs really well for weekend break type trips by public transport where you can need to pack a change of shoes. It slots into over-head compartments on planes/trains/buses nicely and the organisational layout makes it really easy to find your gear when you need it. I have been rained on quite heavily with this pack and it stayed perfectly dry.

In terms of downsides, it does feel quite heavy after carrying it for a while and I am not a fan of how it feels when worn as a backpack at all.

Is the Monarc Settra Duffel for me?

Then there are the organisational possibilities. Its’ 40L of storage can go pretty far and the pack offers a shoe compartment and a 17” laptop sleeve. Coming in at $149.00, it’s well worth the bucks although if you have the budget we also recommend picking up the full set including camera cube, compression cubes and laundry bags.

Anything else? Oh yeah, it’s also water-resistant, TSA Carry-on compliant and comes with a lifetime guarantee!

Our team are a real environmentally conscious lot and any product that offers features such as being made out of recycled ocean plastic is a winner for them! On top of the sustainable side of the bag, they feel it packs some great features too and they particularly love having the security of both the dedicated laptop pocket as well as the lockable zippered sections.

Best Duffel Bag with Wheels – REI Co-op Big Haul Recycled Rolling Duffel – 30″

While we love The North Face’s Maleta, we also tested the REI Co-op Big Haul and can confirm it is equally as great. This wheeled duffel provides traction in all conditions, but the Sherpa strap lets you carry your duffel when you need to.

Its handle and back-panel structure add durability to the rolling duffel bag. You also have internal compression straps, external zippered pockets, and a small zippered pocket on top for organisation.

• Integrated wheels
• Large for longer trips
• Good Capacity
• High quality
• Wheels can’t be hidden
• No added backpack straps
• Might be too big for some

How The REI Co-op Big Haul Tested

Ok, so we found the REI Co-op Big Haul was easy to neatly pack and unpack, and it slotted easily into the overhead compartments. However, the wheels do make it heavy to carry , (and you will have to carry some of the time) and my arm was aching by the end of the day.

In terms of the materials, the main materials feel strong and the weatherproofing stood up to a bit of rain very well. However, I have felt better quality zippers and wonder if the ones on the Big Haul may start to wear and break after a bit of abuse.

Is the REI Co-op Big Haul for me?

Perfect for a month abroad, The REI Co-op Big Haul wheeled duffel bag has 87 litres of interior space and ample organisation to take you (and your gear) around the world. However, there are no removable backpack straps so you’re stuck to wheeling it around!

For those of our team who need to travel with heavy gear, like the climbers and filmmakers in the gang, the REI Co-op Big Haul really works perfectly for their needs. They feel it offers them much more versatility and durability over a traditional wheeled suitcase with both the carry options and the additional compartments and pockets.

Best Carry on Travel Duffel Bag – Patagonia Black Hole 40

This mid-length machine can store everything you need for weekend trips or even entire vacations for light packers. We tested it out on a weekend trip across Europe that took in planes, buses and trains so the old Black Hole got a good and proper trial.

Store your goods in a bag that just barely sneaks under strict carry-on regulations while staying light as a feather. Once you’ve unpacked, you can neatly store this Patagonia bag inside of itself, using its own pockets to compact. 

If you are specifically looking for more carry-on options, check out our best carry on duffel bags post if this is what you’re specifically looking for.

Travelling in cattle class? Have a look at our Ryanair carry-on bags for more specific packs.

How The Patagonia Black Hole Tested

Firstly, even though I have said I am not a fan of wearing duffels as backpacks, this one actually feels ok so big hurrah! When we tested this out we were impressed by its versatility and it performed as well for business trips as it did for weekend expeditions. It isn’t a thick as some other duffels on this list which makes it lighter to carry but may mean it doesn’t last as long although we hasten to point out it felt solid and rugged enough to our testers touch.

Is the Patagonia for me?

Carry the Patagonia Black Hole pack as a duffel or a backpack. This all-purpose travel bag is made with lightweight, tear-resistant matte nylon and has protective padding so you can carry everything all day.

Our team have been big fans of this bag for a while and feel the Black Hole is a classic duffel that does what it sets out to do really well without any bells and whistles. Where the back is lacking slightly on organisational features it makes up for with its incredible durability, weather resistance and all-around versatility. The fact it can be folded down into it’s own little bag and thrown into larger packs as an overflow is also something our team is a big fan of.

Want something more? Well, check this out, Patagonia now also make a rolling duffel version of the Black Hole too!

Best Carry On Travel Duffel Bag (#2) –  BAOSHA Canvas Duffel

Although you could easily use the North Face Maleta as your carry on travel duffel bag, our top pick in this category is the BAOSHA Canvas Duffel! It’s one of the most stylish bags on the market .

So, why’s that? This bag belongs in the ‘weekend away in a fancy hotel’ class of duffel bags; this duffel oozes class with its classic look of canvas and faux leather. Durable thanks to its tough materials, it will survive the knocks, dust, and dirt of travel while weighing just 2.8 Pounds. This might just be the most stylish carry on duffel bag on the market!

It has the potential capacity of 55 litres while still being suitable as an airline carry on. Inside you’ll find two zip-close security pockets and a further two open pockets for smaller items, while the outside of the duffel has a further couple of small compartments and external pockets. It also features a removable shoulder strap for great wearability.

• Excellent style
• Durable canvas construction
• Weighs just 2.8 Pounds
• 55 liters may be a little large for some
• No dedicated laptop sleeve
• Faux rather than real leather
• Zips can’t be locked

How The Tileman Canvas Duffel Tested

So, this is not a duffel for serious travelers or outdoor heads. When we tested it we soon came to lament the lower quality material and its lack of special features. While it performed adequately for our testers weekend retreat, he commented that he felt like it may begin to fray in the face of heavier usage.

Is the Tileman Canvas Duffel for me?

If you’re looking for a travel duffel bag that will set the scene for a luxurious or romantic couple of days away, you’ve found it with the Tileman Canvas Duffel!

But more than simply a pretty face, its durability and relative lightness of weight make it a duffel bag you’ll want to reach for again and again!

For those on our team who aren’t always living the dirtbag lifestyle, this duffel finds the perfect balance between cost, functionality and business style. Here at TBB we feel it’s the perfect duffel for commuting with large amounts of gear or people who need space for their gym kid as well as business travellers wanting to look swish on the go.

Best Men’s Leather Duffel – Kodiak Leather 60L Weekender

If you need a bag for a weekend getaway, for everyday use, for business, the  Kodiak 60L is definitely the best all-around men’s leather duffel bag. This stylish choice won’t look out of place anywhere: on a high-end weekend getaway, or just running some errands around town.

Made from all thick  top-grain leather  by the folks at  Kodiak 60l Weekender which is sturdy hardwearing and bloody beautiful.

Not a typical chuck-it-all-in duffel, the Kodiak weekend bag has a few organisation options. The bag includes three exterior pockets that use YKK zips, as well as a zipped  shoe compartment and a  dedicated laptop sleeve  at the bottom of the bag. This external pocket means you can easily take your laptop out, and put it in again when it comes to airport security.

Looking specifically for a men’s bag for the weekend , check out our post for more option

How The Kodiak 60L Weekender Tested

When our tester got his hands on this duffel it wasn’t so much love at first sight as love at first scent – the finished leather smelt just lovely! Anyway the bag is not the lightest duffel on this list and our tester did feel the weight of the leather after long periods of carrying. The zips and fittings all felt solid and the pack generally feels built to last.

All in all this is a super simple, stylish pack well and truly earned its place on this list.

Is The Kodiak 60L Weekender For Me?

Speaking of which, this bag is  carry-on compliant,  so you’ll be able to throw it over your shoulder and breeze right past the luggage carousel on your next trip, which makes this high-quality bag all the more convenient.

This is a stylish, hardwearing and uber-masculine duffel option. Oh, and there’s also a removable shoulder strap for a variety of carrying options.

For the ultimate in style and durability, our team felt this Kodiak leather duffel was a real winner. In fact, they felt if you were looking for a bag you’d have for decades to some, this would be a real sound investment. They just loved how high quality the materials and construction felt alongside the sleek and timeless style.

Best 50 Litre Travel Duffel Bag – Kuhl Escape 50

The KUHL Eskape 50 is a high versatile and durable duffel, custom designed for outdoor travel, and everyday use. 

Here are key features of the KUHL Eskape:

The KUHL Eskape 50 offers litres of storage which provides enough space for a few works worth of travel gear. It has one large main compartment with a U-shaped opening, and then  several external pockets for easy access to essentials.

Its is made from tough and weather-resistant materials, including a 1680D ballistic nylon bottom and a 500D Poly-TPU coated body. This ensures that the Eskape can withstand a bit of battering and is suitable for outdoor use, protecting your gear from the elements.

• Stylish design – looks great in both urban and outdoor settings
• Quality materials that both durable yet comfy to wear
• Loads of storage space.
• Can be a tad heavy – especially when loaded
• Not be as breathable as some other packs and can get sweaty
• It ain’t cheap

Is The Kuhl Eskape 50 For Me?

The KUHL Eskape boasts padded, adjustable shoulder straps as well as a removable padded shoulder strap. This allows users to carry it comfortably as either a backpack or over a shoulder like a classic duffel. It also has reinforced grab handles on each end for easy lifting and carrying.

The KUHL Eskape  50 has several internal and external pockets. These include a zippered mesh pocket inside the lid, a side pocket with a water-resistant zipper, and a front pocket with a key clip and organizational compartments.

Best Women’s Travel Duffel Bag –  Under Armour Women’s UA Motivator Duffle Sport Bag

Its smaller size compared to some of the travel duffel bags on our list makes it great for throwing in some clothes for a last-minute night away from home, or as an everyday duffel for carrying your gym kit.

Its softshell construction means it also folds down incredibly small and can be used as a spare bag without adding much weight to your other luggage! This duffel has a good degree of water resistance, which will keep your kit safe from light rain showers, with other features including a hanging internal pocket to keep small items safe.

• Specifically designed for women
• Lightweight
• Water-resistant
• Hanging internal pocket
• Softshell construction
• No backpack straps
• Not suitable for business travel

How The Under Armour Tested

The tester brought this duffel bag along to a weekend athletic meet. She commented that the colour scheme was a bit too bland for taste, but did appreciate the way in which the bag can be packed down and minimised for day and gym use. In summary, we found this to be a perfectly serviceable day duffel but do question how well it would perform on longer trips in testing weather conditions.

Is the Under Armour Women’s UA Motivator Duffle Sport Bag for me?

Women looking for a simple, lightweight duffel to get their kit from A to B without spending hours packing to fill every nook and cranny of a backpack will be very happy to buy the Under Armour Women’s UA Motivator Duffle Sport Bag. A great everyday travel duffel bag, it also has a great price!

Our team felt this was the best small duffel bag because it just got the job done without being heavy or cumbersome. They felt it was a great affordable and lightweight duffel to use for everyday trips like heading to the beach or the gym and it’s light enough to fold up and throw into your backpack to use whenever you need on your trip.

Best Waterproof Duffel Bag –  YETI Panga 50 Dry Duffel

Considering YETI makes the most durable coolers, insulated tumblers, and packs, expect the same emphasis of quality and durability from their dry duffel. You could probably throw this duffel over a waterfall and your stuff would still stay dry!

This is the best travel duffel bag if you are doing any type of water activity – rafting down a river; living on a boat; travelling in monsoon season; you name it, YETI’s got you.

You could simply attach this to the side or a river tube and it would hold up! It has 6 lash points and 2 long straps so you can haul your bag in multiple ways. 2 easy-to-access mesh pockets keep your valuables safely tucked away. We think 50 litres is a perfect size, but if you need something bigger, this bag also comes in a 75 litre and 100-litre size.

• Most durable duffel bag ever
• Fully Waterproof
• Heavy (price you pay for durability)
• Might be overkill for basic trips

How The Yeti Panga Dry Duffel Tested

We’ll confess now, we did not test this duffel by taking it white river rafting. However, we did fill it up with clothes and drop it in a bath tub to test the water proofing and are pleased to report that the inside stayed perfectly dry.

Of course, the waterproofing may begin to wear off after extended periods of use but based on what we have seen the Yeti Panga feels pretty solid.

Is the YETI Panga 50 Dry Duffel for me?

Keep your gear dry on your next trip with the YETI Panga 50 dry duffel. This fully waterproof bag is designed to handle total water submersion while remaining 100% dry on the inside.

Need a seat? Grab your Panga. Need a backpack? Grab your Panga. Need a personal floatation device? Grab your Panga. This is the most durable travel duffel bag on this list. Use it for your craziest adventures!

Our team are big fans of how well-made this duffel is and how much confidence it gave them when it came to protecting their gear. They really put it to the test and our team were super impressed. In fact, one member ended up capsizing on a fishing trip and this bag held tight full of clothing, gear and phones for over an hour as well as keeping our team member afloat too. Pretty impressive!

Best Business Travel Duffel Bag –  UNIQUEBELLA Suit Travel Duffel

Thanks to the UNIQUEBELLA Suit Travel Duffel, you can still use a duffel bag and travel with the smarter clothes of a business trip. This duffel cleverly opens out flat to create a dedicated compartment for laying suits and shirts flat without folding them tightly; you’ll find them as wrinkle-free when you arrive at your destination as when you packed them away.

There’s also another dedicated compartment for your business shoes, and four internal zip pockets and a small zip-close external pocket. Lastly, at 55 litres, this duffel both has enough volume for a few days away, and is generally airline carry on compliant.

• Rolls out flat to take suits
• Wrinkle-free clothes storage
• Dedicated shoe compartment
• Internal zip-close pockets
• Made from synthetic materials
• No dedicated tech sleeve
• Not for adventure travel!

How The UNIQUEBELLA Suit Travel Duffel Tested

When we tested this duffel travel bag we were quite taken by the novel design and by the dedicated suit compartment. Whether it truly keeps clothes “wrinkle free” does seem like a bit of an exaggeration although none of us owns a business suit so we could not actually test this out.

Is the UNIQUEBELLA Suit Travel Duffel for me?

Need to keep a suit and shirt crease-free while travelling? Here’s the answer, the UNIQUEBELLA Suit Travel Duffel! Its fold-out design makes it super-easy to transport business wear without the need to iron at your destination and takes care of all those little extras with its shoe compartment and necktie pocket to name just two.

Even us vagabonds need to don a suit from time to time and though our team did feel this bag was a little niche, they felt it cornered position perfectly. They were unsure if the bag would be a little gimmicky but in practice they felt the design actually worked well in practical use and kept their gear wrinkle-free and ready to rock!

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Best Duffel Bag for Expedition –  The North Face Base Camp Duffel

When you are hitting the mountains for days on end, you’ll need a duffel bag that is up to the challenge. The North Face Base Camp duffel has been an essential piece of kit for explorers, mountaineers, and adventurers for decades.

• Comes in multiple sizes
• Just 4 lbs in weight
• Ultra Durable
• Come with backpack straps
• Lacks a little rigidity
• Not  fully  waterproof
• Not all versions carry on compliant
• The big sizes are awkward to carry when packed full

How Did the North Face Base Camp Duffel Test?

We tested this bag in the depths of the Karakoram range in Pakistan. It has been snagged against a barbed wire fence, stepped on by pack mules, dropped in the mud, and snowed on for hours. Whenever I head to the mountains for an extended adventure, you better believe that this bag is coming with. 10 stars.

Is the The North Face Base Camp duffel bag for me?

Are you going on a serious adventure and needing to haul all of your gear along for the ride? This is the bag for you. Our team really loved the simple but high-quality nature of this duffel and generally North Face bags as a whole. They liked that this duffel added a bit more in the way of organisational pockets than the Black Hole and also offered a matt style rather than the shiny exterior of the black hole, which some of the team really preferred.

Best Travel Duffel Bag for the Trails –  The North Face Base Camp Voyager Duffel

Well, never thought I would take a duffel bag on hikes and bike rides, but North Face has done it again! This is one of the best all-around travel bags, no question!

You can toss this on top of your car or stow it away on a flight. This bag can easily be used for ANY type of adventure.

The bag unzips for easy access to the main compartment. There is a top padded pocket for delicate items, side pockets for a water bottle and small items, and internal zipper pockets for organization.

The straps and back support are not as padded as The North Face’s hiking backpacks, but it will do the trick for shorter hikes and rides!

• Ripstop weather resistant Nylon material
• Versatile backpack/duffel
• Plenty of organizational compartments
• Not as comfortable as hiking backpacks
• 32 liters might be too small for some

How The North Face Base Camp Voyager Duffel Tested

To test this pack out we brought it along on a multi day camping trip into the wild mountains of Northern Spain. Of course, it did not feel quite as comfortable as a proper hiking backpack would and I did miss the additional support from a dedicated backpack. Still, the straps felt OK and the pack had plenty of room to fit our gear.

Is The North Face Base Camp Voyager Duffel for me?

The North Face Base Camp Voyager Duffel is a mobile base camp for all your mountain-biking, trail-running and skiing escapades. It has all the organizational bells and whistles you need to organize your gear, and multiple uses mean it is a functional bag for a wide array of trips.

Our team felt this was the perfect duffel for those who love adventure travel and outdoor sports. They were particularly impressed by how comfortable it was to carry heavy gear like climbing equipment, especially when the hike in itself is pretty challenging. They also felt it offered a level of organisation for their gear that is pretty rare with these types of large gear bags.

  The Classic Duffle by Mahi  – Best Small Duffel Bag

Looking for the great men’s leather duffel bag days out and short trips? If so, the Classic Duffle by Mahi may be just for you.

Combining traditional elegance with rugged practicality, the MAHI Classic Duffle in Vintage Brown is a lovely luggage piece for those looking for a stylish gym bag , weekend or overnight bag.

It’s made with beautifully supple full-grain leather on the main body and complimented with a fawn cotton lining. Other features include four brass studs on the base, a front zipped pocket for easy access to your essential items, a smaller zipped pocket on the inside and a detachable and extendable shoulder strap with additional padding for comfort.

• Designed for low-cost carrier use
• Soft Leather
• Multiple zippered pockets
• Heavy for size
• Not big enough for many trips
• Not waterproof

How The MAHI Leather Duffel Tested

I’ve tested quite a few pieces from the MAHI leather range. The leather on all of them isn’t exactly high grade, but feels very good for the price point.

Is the MAHI Leather duffel for me?

Being a small bag, this one is approved for carry-on by most airlines either the super strict budget ones. When it comes to packing, this thing thankfully stands up on its own, not falling in on itself as some duffel bags tend to.

Our team felt this was a great compact duffel that still offered good space optimisation. They felt for the minimalist traveller or commuter that doesn’t need a whole heap of gear, it’s the perfect option. They also felt the bag offered decent quality in terms of materials for the money.

Best Large Travel Duffel –  REI Co-op Big Haul Recycled Duffel

Looking to travel with a lot of kits? You’re going to need a large travel duffel! The REI Co-op Big Haul Recycled Duffel comes in a variety of sizes, much like Patagonia’s Black Hole duffel series , and runs up to the 90-litre XL version. It is available at a very reasonable price tag for the volume size of the bag.

What else do you get for the price? You get a duffel specifically intended for rougher travel, made from 600 Dernier waterproof materials with a large D-zip opening for easy access. You also get two removable shoulder straps and a side zip-close pocket for smaller items.

• Made for tougher travel assignments
• 40-90 litres
• Large opening
• No major internal divisions
• Not for business travel
• Has to go in the aircraft hold
• Weight of 1.6kg

How The REI Co-op Big Haul Recycled Duffel Tested

We tested this REI Co-op Big Haul Duffel by adding it to our Pakistan expedition arsenal which means that it gets used to carry packed tents and camping equipment up and down mountain sides. Of course, carting a duffel up a mountain side never easy but this one felt relatively light. It was able to withstand classes with jagged rocks and stayed dry despite drizzle. Result!

Is the REI Co-op Big Haul Duffel for me?

This unisex travel duffel bag by REI certainly fits the definition of a large travel duffel with a capacity of 90 litres. Is it the best? Well, we think it is! Tough and ready for anything, simply throw your kit in, and start your adventure!

Our team just loved how rugged this bag felt and many of them described it as pretty much bulletproof when it came to throwing anything at it! In fact, a few of the team have owned this bag for years on end and it’s been abused in all corners of the world and stood up admirably. They also loved the large zippered compartments that were big enough to use for their shoes or bigger items.

Best Large Travel Duffel (#2) –  Thule RoundTrip Snowsports Duffel

The Thule RoundTrip Snowsports Duffel is a travel duffel bag for anyone who needs to transport larger amounts of baggage since it has a volume capacity of 80 litres.

Rather than having an external compartment at one end of the bag, it has one at either end helping with the organization of large amounts of kit.

The main compartment has a wide D-shaped zip-close opening that makes it simple to load and unload, while the large tags on the zips make them easy to shift even with cold fingers! Water-resistant all around, it has a waterproof bottom so there are no worries about lowering the bag onto the wet ground.

• Large capacity
• The external compartment at both ends
• Wide D-shaped opening
• Large zip tags
• Water-resistant but not fully waterproof
• Too large a capacity for many
• Weight of 3 lbs. 5.9 oz
• Not ideal for business travel

How The Thule RoundTrip Snowsports Duffel Tested

When compared to other duffels on this list the 80-litre Thule RoundTrip Snowsports Duffel is a giant and our tested had no issues in fitting all of his camping gear in. Of course, big bags are heavier and bulkier and our tested did remark that a full packed 80-litre duffel isn’t the easiest carry. The waterproof base was kind of put to the test when the bag was laid on wet ground and we’re pleased to confirm that the pack remained nice and dry.

Is the Thule RoundTrip Snowsports Duffel for me?

If you need a travel duffel bag with a large capacity, the Thule RoundTrip Snowsports Duffel could well be the duffel bag for you! Its 80-litre capacity is divided between the main compartment at two end compartments, while the waterproof base is another fine addition.

Our team are big fans of the Thule brand and expected big things from these duffels. They were of course suitably impressed by the durability and high quality of the bag but mostly their feedback featured high praise for the larger end compartments as well as loving the range of sizes available.

Best Travel Duffel Bag for the Mountains (DURABLE) –  North Face Base Camp

The cylindrically-shaped Base Camp duffel by North Face is a 50-litre capacity bag with an empty weight of just over 1.23 kg. They do carry sizes up to 90-liters as well!

As you would expect from North Face, the Base Camp Duffel is made from durable materials of 80% polyester with 20% polyamide. There’s a separate compartment at one end, and a zipped mesh pocket within the main compartment for easy access to smaller items.

The duffel comes with wide, adjustable, shoulder straps designed to avoid twisting, and padded grab handles. External compression straps around the circumference of the main compartment and at either end of the bag help reduce down and secure your contents.

• Good empty weight
• Made from durable materials
• Pockets for smaller items
• Ergonomically-designed shoulder straps
• Softshell duffel
• Synthetic rather than natural materials

How The North Face Camp Tested

Our first impressions upon taking out the North Face camp were that it very much looks and feels like an expedition piece – as such we are not sure how well it would translate to more “normal” travel usage. As a heavy duty camping and expedition piece its certainly rugged although the fact that its not fully water proof does cost it some points.

Is the North Face Base Camp for me?

This is an iconic, super-tough expedition duffel from The North Face. The separate end compartment means you can keep clean and dirty items divided without endless periods of repacking, while the durable materials used will ensure the Base Camp can be used for more than just the one adventure!

Another fine North Face duffel! Our team once again had high expectations but also wanted to know what made this stand out against the brand’s other offerings. Firstly they felt the Base Camp offered the most durable and weather-resistant materials, meaning they could really push where they could take this thing. With it’s larger size they also appreciated the additional of compression straps to keep everything compact and maximise space.

Best Travel Duffel Bag on a Budget –  Sweetbriar Vintage Canvas Duffel

This stylish bag is one of the best travel duffel backpacks if you’re on a budget! The Sweetbriar Vintage Canvas Duffel is listed under $40 and is perfect for a weekend in the city versus a few days of camping in the wild.

It comes in a very attractive tan canvas and leather-coloured webbing styling. It incorporates zipped compartments on the front of the bag as well as plenty of internal zippers and organisational features. Expansion zips give a total overall volume of 39 litres, plenty for that weekend away, while there are also lock-together carry handles and an adjustable shoulder strap.

• Lovely design
• Comprises zipped compartments
• Expansion zips give 39-liter capacity
• Adjustable shoulder strap
• Not very durable
• Capacity may be too small for some
• Hand wash only

How The Sweetbriar Vintage Canvas Duffel Tested

What we really loved about this travel duffel bag was that in the flesh, it looks and feels like it cost a lot more than $40. If you are looking for a hardcore travel duffel that will survive all weather and last for years then this may not be the one for you. However, if you are after a budget travel bag for an upcoming trip, then perhaps you have found what you need?

Is the Sweetbriar Vintage Canvas Duffel for me?

Any man or woman about town will readily fall in love with this unisex vintage canvas duffel. The ideal size for a weekend away, it consists of smaller compartments and pockets as well as the main compartment and also boasts an adjustable shoulder strap.

Our team felt that for a pretty run-of-the-mill duffel, this thing doesn’t look cheap and with the canvas material it’s also really durable too. They also loved that it was packed full of features like interior pockets, side shoe compartments and hidden valuable pockets.

Best Packable Duffel Pack – Nemo Double Haul Convertible

The quite possibly bomb-proof Double Haul is a highly versatile combination of a packable duffel bag and tote bag, designed to meet an adventurer’s changing needs. Its huge opening remains wide for easy packing and folds into a duffel for long journeys, complete with self-contained backpack straps. For  some extra capacity and organisation, you can deploy the tucked-away tote bag handles when you need to haul more.

Certified as a bluesign product, the badass Double Haul is fully made from recycled materials. The bag features side release buckles for easy transformation from duffel to tote, stiffened trusses for structure, and internal and external zippered mesh pockets for organisation. A matching carrying case, doubling as a packing cube, is also included.

• Trusted brand
• Comes with a tote bag
• Shiny exterior
• Doesn’t have a rigid structure

How The Gregory Alpaca Duffel Tested

I got my hands on the 70 Litre version (30L and 55L are also available). It feels rugged and resilient, packs down into a neat cube with no trouble and holds a nice amount of gear.

My only real criticisms are the bright colours (too much for me) and the question of how much I really need a packable duffel and whether one would ever get enough use out of it to justify the price tag.

So first of all, Duffel Bags are awesome. They’re physically tough, your belongings are easy to access and kept safe by the waterproof fabric – even the worst baggage handler can’t do much harm! Below are the most important features to pay attention to when you are deciding on your purchase because there are so many bags on the market!

However, not all Duffels are the same. Choosing the right one requires looking at different factors. Our list of factors below will give you a rough idea of what you should be looking out for when being on the hunt for a new Duffel Bag.

From detachable backpack straps to a rolling duffel, there are more options than you might first think when it comes to the best travel duffel.

What do you plan to carry in your duffel bag? And where are you travelling to? You may need an ultra-durable duffel backpack that can handle the abuse of long-term and international travel, or you may only need a simple bag to get you to/from the airport.

Perhaps you’re going on a boat or river adventure or travelling around Europe in winter. Either way, a waterproof or weatherproof bag is the ticket! Pay attention to the bags’ materials because the best traveling duffel bags are tough enough to deal with your adventures!

When deciding which travel duffel bag for you, you need to first think about your style of packing. Are you looking for a duffel bag that consists of a single large main compartment, or one with several compartments and an internal mesh pocket in addition to the main one?

If you’re travelling for business, you should consider a bag that protects tech gear, such as a laptop, as well as allows you to pack your clothes without creases. You might also want to look at features such as compression straps that keep everything neat and in place.

If you’ve got heaps of gear to organise and need things easy to access you might also want to consider exterior pockets.

Ask yourself: what are you using your travel duffel bag for? There are some excellent duffel bags with incredible style if you’re looking for a bag to take your belonging to a hotel for a weekend of relaxation. Likewise, there are a great number of travel duffels more suited to the great outdoors – offering different levels of weather protection, and weighing more or less too.

Also, consider how comfortable the bag is going to be compared to other duffel bags. Does it offer a padded shoulder strap or even two removable backpack straps? If you’re going to be wearing it for a long time and it’s packed full of all your travel gear, padded straps are a lifesaver!

Finally, you may want the classic duffel bag functionality or one with wheels and/or backpack straps. Whether detachable or integrated, padded shoulder straps don’t add a lot of weight, but can make a bag a lot more comfortable in the long term.

If you’re planning to carry your travel duffel bag for long periods, such as on a camping trip or up and down cobblestone streets in search of your hotel room, weight is going to be a hugely important factor in your decision-making. The best travel duffel bags are those that maximise their space and minimise their weight.

Duffel bags with wheels can weigh significantly more, but if you’re planning to get a rolling duffel and use the wheels versus carrying it on your shoulder, this won’t be a major concern!

In order to compare these duffle bags against one another, we threw them into a gladiatorial pit and forced them to fight to the death…OK so no that did not happen. Instead, various members of Team Broke Backpacker tested these duffels over a period of a number of years taking them on trips. That means that some duffels got put through the gauntlet of a month long vacation whereas got off lightly with a weekend trips. As such, the science isn’t exactly exact here.

Still, we stand by our findings. With each duffel we paid close attention to capacity and packing functionality, we compared how comfortable each duffel felt to carry, assessed how rugged and resilient each one felt and awarded bonus points for style.

Now, you  could spend a fat chunk of $$$ on the WRONG present for someone. Wrong size hiking boots, wrong fit backpack, wrong shape sleeping bag… As any adventurer will tell you, gear is a personal choice.

So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card!  REI is The Broke Backpacker’s retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. And then you won’t have to keep the receipt. 😉

Still have some questions about the best travel duffels? No problem! We’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Here’s what people usually want to know:

Why should you get a duffel bag?

Duffel bags might not be as handy as backpacks, but they’re just as spacious. If you’re not planning on backpacking, duffel bags are the next best option to store all of your gear safely.

Which duffel bag is the best?

We love the Osprey Transporter Expedition Duffel as it can be carried as a duffel bag and backpack at the same time. It’s the best of both worlds.

What’s a good size duffel bag?

A duffel bag can range from 35 to 65 liters. Most of them have an average of 40L which makes them perfect for carry-on.

What should I look for in a duffel bag?

Look for these key features: 1. Quality of the material and price 2. The design 3. Packability, size and weight

Our GREATEST Travel Secrets…

Pop your email here & get the original Broke Backpacker Bible for FREE.

In this guide, we’ve covered the 17 best travel duffel bags on the market. From the big players to smaller brands, we’ve reviewed the ones fit for the great outdoors, your next business meeting, or a short hotel stay.

Nowadays, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to travel gear. Do you want a duffel bag with wheels? One that is lightweight? How about a fully waterproof duffel backpack? All you need to do is pick out the best travel duffel bag for you!

• Should You Buy a Duffel or a Carry-On For Your Next Trip?
• Calling All Backpackers: Discover Your Perfect Carry-on backpacks with Us!
• Check out our rundown of the best travel bags and see what works best for you.
• Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list .

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Is it possible to travel with a duffle around the world, or you recommed a backpack fot that? Cheers

Sure, but if you travel long term consider that a duffel will mean carrying the weight of your bag with just one side of your body. It also means you won’t always have the option of two free hands, which you can get from a backpack.

where would u place the wandrd hexad all access?

Hi John, thanks for reaching out. The Wandrd Hexad All Access is a great pack, and one I will be adding to this list shortly. I have been traveling with a Wandrd PRVKE 31 for about a year as my primary daypack/camera bag and I absolutely love it – Wandrd makes great stuff. I have had a bit of first hand experience with the Hexad All Access as well – here are my first impressions: The Hexad All Access is a great pack/duffel for 4-5 days of travel, is tough as nails, and has plenty of interesting features and storage options whether you are a photographer or not. Thanks for bringing this to our attention. Long story short – this duffle is solid and you can’t really go wrong.

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• Trip Planning
• Tech & Gear

The 7 Best Duffel Bags of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Versatile luggage pieces you can take to any destination

In This Article

• Our Top Picks

Final Verdict

Product selection, how we tested, other duffel bags we tested.

• What to Look For

Frequently Asked Questions

Why trust tripsavvy.

For weekends away and other short trips, duffel bags are an ideal pick for your luggage. They’re lightweight, so they won’t dent your airline allowance, and they can be as bare-bones or as feature-packed as you’d like. Plus, they can easily fold down for storage or travel flat in your checked bag as a backup carry-on if you do a little shopping on your vacation. And they look cool, whether you go for a classic take on the duffel or a more modern design.

There are a ton of duffel bags out there to choose from, including classic designs, affordable-but-durable canvas bags, and convertible wheeled options. We tested 19 duffel bag options in our Brooklyn testing lab with an eye toward durability, organization, and value.

Best Overall

Patagonia duffel bag.

Deceptively spacious

Multiple ways to comfortably carry

Convenient self storage

Nothing yet

Patagonia calls its duffel line the Black Hole series because of the seemingly endless amount of space these bags offer. Indeed, our testers noticed and enjoyed the vast amount of space this bag—which comes in 40-, 55-, 70-, and 100-liter sizes—truly has. But perhaps the best part about this bag is its ability to collapse in on itself and pack down into a smaller inner pocket.

Beyond its packability, this solid bag scored well throughout our testing. Its ultra-durable ripstop fabric is highly water resistant. Attachable backpack straps give you different ways to haul it around, while zippered side pockets and daisy chain loops help boost the storage and carrying capacity. "This is a very good quality bag with a nice design and great features," one tester concluded. "It can also fit more contents than its appearance suggests." Hence, the Black Hole.

Weight: 2.19 pounds | Dimensions: 22.5 x 13 x 8 inches | Volume: 40 liters (55, 70, and 100 liters also available) | Planet and Social Impact: Made with recycled fabric, materials, and webbing

Best Budget

Gonex canvas duffel bag.

• Capacity 4.5 /5
• Design 4.5 /5
• Portability 4.5 /5
• Value 4.5 /5
• Durability 5 /5

Easy to maintain

Spacious external pockets

Versatile and functional carrying

No sustainability info

Gonex's Canvas Duffel Bag is a classic-looking duffel with handles, a shoulder strap, ample interior space, and many smaller exterior pockets. While our testers could not fit all items into the main center pocket, they were able to utilize the side pockets to complete packing. They also liked that the handles connected via Velcro and found that the extra removable shoulder strap boosted comfort and maneuverability.

The bag's material held up during durability tests, and our testers were impressed that the cloth stayed clean throughout. Our conclusion? "This is a solid choice for someone looking for a duffel on a budget," one tester surmised.

Weight: 2.76 pounds | Dimensions: 20.8 x 9.8 x 11.8 inches | Volume: 40 liters (50-liter expanded option available) | Planet and Social Impact: Not listed

Best Weekender

Dagne dover landon carryall bag.

Attractive and practical

Excellent organization

Easy to pack

Some creasing in material during durability tests

Dagne Dover is known for stylish, well-thought-out, minimalist bags, and its carryall duffel is no different. With long straps and a tapered shape that hugs close to the body (rather than, like some duffels, uncomfortably bouncing against it), this bag is a faithful companion for long weekends and shorter trips. It’s full of the thoughtful details the brand is known for, too, and we mean full: Think a padded laptop sleeve for laptops up to 16 inches, a shoe duster, a key leash, a water bottle pocket, and a mesh pouch to keep hand sanitizer and lip balm on hand. Made from super-durable neoprene, which is great for travel, the bag is water-resistant and can be hand-cleaned.

"This bag is made for travel," one tester reported. Our testers loved all the pockets and accessories. They also loved the included zip bag for shoes and how wide the top zip opened for packing accessibility. "I loved this bag, and while the price is steep, it does seem like the type of item that will last a long time and can be used for various types of travel," one tester concluded.

Weight: 2.82 pounds | Dimensions: 15 x 9.5 x 12 inches | Volume: 5 to 42 liters (XS, S, M, L, XL sizes) | Planet and Social Impact: Lining made with recycled materials, like recycled bottles

Best Rolling

Eagle creek no matter what rolling duffel.

• Portability 4 /5

Rugged, long-lasting build

Steady carry

Loads of storage space

Shoulder strap could use improvement

Eagle Creek's No Matter What duffel basically says it all in the name. With sizes up to 133 liters, this super durable and water-resistant bag comes with wheels, making it ideal for pretty much any trip or adventure. Our testers were impressed by the large capacity. They loved the broader straps, which felt very comfortable. "The handle straps were very nice in preventing the bag from swaying when maneuvering, and it feels comfortable in the hand," one tester noted. "For shorter people, the bag allows the wide handle straps to double as shoulder straps, which feels more comfortable than the adjustable shoulder strap."

The No Matter What passed all of our durability tests without any scratches or scuffs, and testers noted it felt tougher than most other bags tested. "We would recommend this bag, especially for the traveler looking for a duffel with wheels," our testers concluded. "It holds a lot and is also soft enough that it can squeeze tightly into an overhead bin."

Weight: 2.7 pounds | Dimensions: 33 x 15 x 16 inches | Volume: 39 to 133 liters (S, M, L, XL sizes) | Planet and Social Impact: Not listed

Best for Durability

Yeti crossroads duffel bag.

• Capacity 5 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Portability 3.5 /5

Adjustable internal organization

Rugged Yeti build

Pockets could be deeper

Not as convenient to store away

Yeti's name has become synonymous with toughness, whether you're buying mugs, tumblers, coolers, or carry-on luggage for men and women. The Crossroads duffel is no different. This large-capacity bag is constructed with Yeti's proprietary TuffSkin nylon and comes with sturdy, rigid partitions on the inside to separate compartments. "The hardshell bottom makes the entire product feel durable and worth the price," one tester noted.

The bag comes in 40- and 60-liter sizes and features side pockets, a water bottle or tumbler holder, and a padded laptop "vault." While our testers did appreciate the bag's durability, they noted that it also added some weight and a level of rigidity that prevents the bag from being packed down small. Still, if your travel involves outdoor adventures where amped durability and strength are luggage necessities, the Yeti is worth the extra spend and weight.

Weight: 4.3 pounds | Dimensions: 23 x 15 x 10 inches | Volume: 60 liters (40-liter version also available) | Planet and Social Impact: Not listed

Best Eco-Friendly

Lo & sons the catalina deluxe weekender.

• Design 3.9 /5
• Durability 4.1 /5
• Value 3.5 /5

Separate shoe compartment

Serious standard of sustainability

Comfortable and functional

Zipper can be problematic

Eco-friendliness aside, the Catalina Deluxe is simply an excellent travel bag. But we also love that it's gentle on resources. The bag comes in recycled polyester or organic canvas and doesn't use harsh chemicals, pesticides, or synthetic fertilizers in its production. Bonus: The brand claims the sourcing and production of the bag encourage species diversity.

But beyond the feel-good environmentally conscious production, our testers loved how easy the bag was to carry using the shoulder straps and top handles. In particular, our testers enjoyed the bottom layer for packing shoes and sneakers. If you're looking for a highly functional bag that's also good for the planet, this is it.

Weight: 2.7 pounds | Dimensions: 18 x 10 x 15 inches | Volume: Not listed | Planet and Social Impact: Made with recycled poly and organic cotton, claims to reduce carbon emissions and keep 24+ bottles from landfills per each bag

Most Rugged

Thule chasm sport duffel bag.

• Capacity 4 /5
• Design 4 /5

Thoughtfully designed details

Choice of carry style

Tough, travel-ready exterior

No pockets on the outside

Our testers were thoroughly impressed with Thule's Chasm Duffel Bag. From its organizational capability to the comfort of its backpack straps, its solid materials, and its waterproof zippers, testers raved about this bag. Thule uses tarpaulin fabric, which is durable and weather resistant. It also features a padded bottom for extra protection of packed items. Its two-in-one design makes it easy to convert from a traditional duffel to a backpack. And there are multiple grab handles around the bag for moving it quickly.

"The bag, when fully packed, is a lot to carry without the backpack straps," one tester commented. "But it's easy enough to hold and carry with the straps." Said another: "I like the size, durability, zippers, and backpack straps of this bag. It also comes with a packing cube that can be used for clothing, toiletries, or even a small pair of shoes."

Weight: 4.22 pounds | Dimensions: 30 x 13 x 10.5 inches | Volume: 40 liters (70, 90, and 130 liters also available) | Planet and Social Impact: Not listed

Those familiar with Patagonia won't be surprised to find one of its bags topping our list. Rugged, spacious, and easy to store, the Black Hole Duffel is an excellent choice. If you're looking for a budget option, you can't go wrong with the Gonex Canvas Duffel .

Products were selected based on our editors' prior knowledge and experience with luggage brands and products. We also based selections on highly reviewed and rated duffel bags on Amazon and other e-commerce sites. A finalized list of 19 duffel bags was created to meet a wide range of budgets and intended uses.

TripSavvy editors tested all 19 bags mentioned in this roundup in our lab in Brooklyn, New York. Attributes like organization, maneuverability, durability, and value were all considered. After weighing and measuring each bag, we packed it with five shirts, five pairs of pants, two jackets, two pairs of shoes, one toiletry bag, and one coffee mug. We then rated each bag's organizational features based on that list.

With the bags fully packed, we carried them around the testing lab to assess their maneuverability. We carried each bag with handles, shoulder straps, and cross straps when available. Lastly, with the bags still packed, we pushed each one off the top of a ladder three to five times, making sure the bag landed at a different angle each time. We checked how well the coffee mug fared and if there were any visible scuffs, scratches, or marks on the bag's exterior.

Samsonite Tote-A-Ton Duffel Bag : This is a solid choice for anyone wanting an inexpensive bag that holds a lot. Our testers saw this bag as better for a road trip than carrying it through an airport or train station.

Leatherology Kessler Duffle : Our testers thought this was a good option for a high-end leather bag. But for the casual traveler or someone looking for a decent weekender, it's a bit pricy. We envision this being a solid hop-off-the-plane-and-go-to-work bag.

L.L.Bean Adventure Rolling Duffle Bag : Our testers thought this was a solid bag. They enjoyed how it rolled and, despite a rather narrow opening, were impressed by how much it could hold. Testers definitely recommend it.

Carhartt Trade Series 2-in-1 Packable Duffel : This bag is another good pick for anyone looking for a solid weekender bag. This is a good option for a small bag that's meant to look worn.

Rains Duffel Bag : Our testers liked this bag, and while they said they'd like to see the cross strap be more padded, they would recommend it for anyone looking for a durable, waterproof weekend bag.

Baboon to the Moon Go-Bag Big : This bag holds a lot and is durable. Our testers recommend it for anyone road-tripping or car camping. However, with backpack straps only, it's not a true duffel.

Tumi Double Expansion Travel Satchel : Our testers were not impressed with this bag, especially considering its price. "This feels like a common bag," one tester concluded. "Most of the cheaper bags performed comparably, and some even outperformed this bag by a lot." Overall, the bag felt slightly flimsy and didn't hold as much as our testers saw in other bags.

Olympia 8-Pocket Rolling Duffel Bag : The Olympia 8-Pocket is a good option for anyone looking for a simple bag to make it from point A to B. But for anyone looking for a tougher bag able to hold up to more rugged travel, other options on the list are better. And while our testers loved the rolling feature, they did find it annoying to carry.

Yeti Panga Duffel : This bag is probably overkill for the average traveler. But for the adventure traveler or anyone looking to have a duffel that can double as a rafting, camping, or overlanding bag, Yeti's Panga is a solid choice. It's basically a Yeti soft backpack cooler in duffel form.

Paravel Foldable Bag : While this bag had a few things we liked (it's foldable and lightweight), we can't advocate it for extended or airplane travel. After a few drops from the ladder, the test coffee mug shattered, making us unwilling to recommend it for checked luggage.

Modoker Garment Duffel Bag : Less of a travel duffel and more of a gym or day bag, our testers did like the Garment Duffel Bag. Overall, testers reported wanting more space and pockets, but its durability and versatility rated well.

Away The Everywhere Bag : Our testers thought this bag was OK but not great. It looks chic but doesn't have the functionality or practicality our testers were looking for in a proper travel bag. "I like the style of the bag, and it would make a good complement as a carry-on, but I think travelers would need a larger size for more than an overnight," one tester concluded.

What to Look For in a Duffel Bag

Duffels come in all sizes, from an overnight carry-on to bags that can hold a week’s worth of gear. Envision your likely load, and think about sizing up a bit to give yourself some additional space. If you want an easy-to-carry bag to bring souvenirs home from a trip, look for one that collapses into itself so you can stash it in your other luggage and pull it out for the trip home.

Organization

If you’re in the market for one big bag to carry everything, models with a large main pocket will suffice, though they typically come with a few additional zippered pockets for smaller items. Other designs distribute their storage into a handful of different sections, which helps you keep things more organized.

Every duffel bag comes with a shoulder strap. Look for an adjustable, padded, and removable one for optimum comfort. Bags with wheels often include telescoping handles, which allow you to roll through airports and across pavement with ease, then lift the pack to carry it with the shoulder strap when the terrain gets rough.

Traditionally, duffel bags were made of tough natural fabrics such as leather and wool. The genius of these bags is the balance between flexible packing capacity and resistance to wear and tear. Nowadays, the market has branched out into innovative and functional materials looking to take this good idea to the next level; think canvas, polyester, vinyl, neoprene (like in the Landon Carryall ), and recycled materials. Choose a fabric based on where and how you typically travel, your budget, and your aesthetic tastes.

Sometimes it can be challenging to pack a duffel bag because of the lack of interior pockets and organization. It is best to put large, bulky items like shoes and things you won’t need access to so often on the bottom. Fold your clothes and place them on top along with essentials like your phone charger. The outer pockets can be used for small items like travel documents and toiletries. If you prefer more structure, packing cubes help make the most of your bag’s space. For added security, consider tossing in a luggage tracking device .

A heavy duffel bag can cause muscle strain, so be sure to alternate which shoulder you carry it on. Pay attention to the strap when choosing a bag to purchase, because some offer more cushioning than others. Also, try to carry the bag close to your body as this can reduce the stress put on spinal muscles.

Depending on the size of your duffel bag and how much you pack into it, a duffel bag can be a personal item. Most airlines consider a personal item to be anything that can fit in the space under the seat in front of you. If you plan to pack more in your duffel bag, it may be considered a carry-on and can be stowed in the overhead compartment. Extra-large ones will need to be checked.

Amber Nolan  has been working in the travel industry for over 10 years. She has written for TripSavvy since 2016, and her work has appeared in USA Today, Jetsetter, Cruise Critic, and several other travel publications.

Nathan Allen is TripSavvy's Outdoor Gear Editor. He's used duffel bags made by Yeti, Patagonia, Cotopaxi, The North Face, and Outdoor Research. Durability and water resistance or waterproofing are the essential features he considers when picking a duffel bag.

Jamie Aranoff , an associate editor at Travel + Leisure, helped lead testing in our Brooklyn testing lab.

While researching duffel bags, we spoke with grooming and travel journalist Adam Hurly .

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The Best Duffle Bags

By Kit Dillon

Kit Dillon is a writer focused on bags and travel gear. He has worked for Wirecutter for a decade and lost count of the number of bags he has tested.

Few bags are as simple, versatile, and satisfying to use as a duffle.

Its utilitarian design—a soft, oblong bag with one zippered opening plus two handles and/or a shoulder strap—suits anything from a daily commute to a weekend away to a fishing trip.

Though that basic form works in many situations, no single duffle bag (the word is also spelled duffel ) can fit everyone’s taste or needs.

A small, barrel-shaped duffle may be perfect for toting a couple of towels and lunch to the beach, for example, but it doesn’t offer the organization or space to pack for a three-day business trip.

The six bags we recommend—plus two alternates—are well made, comfortable to carry, and intended to fill a range of roles, including as a versatile adventure bag , a weekend-away duffle , a lightweight convertible backpack , an ultra-packable duffle , a rolling duffle for checking , and a waterproof gear hauler .

The research

Why you should trust me, most versatile duffle: patagonia black hole duffel 70l, also great: decathlon forclaz duffel 500 extend, best weekender: lands’ end waxed canvas travel duffle bag, for traveling on foot: cotopaxi chumpi 35l duffel del día, for when you need a spare bag: matador freefly packable duffle, also consider: waterfield packable duffel, best as checked luggage: dakine split roller 110l bag, best for keeping things dry: yeti panga 50l waterproof duffel, other good duffle bags, how we picked and tested, the competition, what to look forward to.

I’ve reviewed bags for Wirecutter since 2014. In that time, I’ve interviewed countless bag designers, brand executives, fabric specialists, zipper zealots, and a host of bag hobbyists and satchel obsessives. These interviews and my own years of research have earned me at least something of a journeyman’s understanding of how a good bag should feel and what makes it work in a given situation.

Patagonia Black Hole Duffel 70L

A rugged, versatile bag to hold your gear.

This bag is the most versatile gear duffle we’ve found. It’s tough, water resistant, and great for toting clothes and equipment in almost any travel or outdoor scenario.

Buying Options

Get this if: You need a sporty, water-resistant bag that can handle anything from toting sports gear to holding stuff for a two-day camping trip to going on a weeklong vacation.

Why it’s great: The Patagonia Black Hole Duffel 70L is a true jack-of-all-trades. The exterior is made of polyester ripstop that is laminated with thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) to protect against abrasion and has a water-resistant coating. Over the years, I’ve dragged, thrown, kicked, and carried these Patagonia bags across most of the country, and they’ve never failed. You can carry the Black Hole at your side using the two handles or over your shoulder using the strap, or you can wear it as a backpack with its two padded straps. The Black Hole is available in three other sizes, too: 40 liters , 55 liters , and 100 liters . (We originally tested a now-discontinued 120-liter version.) For all practical purposes, the bags are identical except for their increasing size, though the two smaller sizes come in a wider range of colors than do the two larger sizes. The Black Hole folds down into its own stuff sack, which turns into a storage pocket when you unfold the duffle. Patagonia has a highly regarded replacement and repair guarantee that we’ve tested many times without complaint.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: There’s little about the Black Hole to critique. It does what it needs to, and Patagonia’s reputation for high-quality materials and craftsmanship has set the standard for this type of bag for years. One small detail: The shoulder straps can take a moment to situate because of their unusual eyelet attachment, but once you figure them out, adjusting them is easy to do with one hand.

Dimensions: 28 by 13 by 17.5 inches (LWH) Capacity: 70 liters Other sizes: 40 liters , 55 liters , 100 liters

Decathlon Forclaz Duffel 500 Extend

If you need a versatile bag that expands.

This expandable bag is an absolute bargain, considering the quality and strength of the materials. However, Decathlon is still a lesser-known brand in the US, and we haven’t tested this bag for as long as we have our other picks.

Get this if: You need a durable and water-resistant bag for travel, sports, or longer adventure trips. With its extra 20 liters of expandable space, it’s a particularly good pick if you tend to travel with a small load and return home with a larger one—so consider this bag if you anticipate receiving gifts or doing some shopping while you’re traveling.

Why it’s great: When we first compared the quality of the Decathlon Forclaz Duffel 500 Extend against its listed price, we thought there must have been some kind of mistake. We rarely see a bag with coated thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) and polyester, both of which offer water resistance and durability, of this quality for less than a hundred dollars. In many respects, the Forclaz Duffel is similar in material quality to the Patagonia Black Hole Duffel 70L , yet it’s less than half the price. That said, we have some small concerns that we can’t address without further testing, namely the stitching at critical points (more on that below).

Beyond the price, the standout feature of the Forclaz bag is its Transformer-like ability to expand from a 40-liter backpack to a 60-liter bag with the adjustment of a few zippers and clips. The expansion process is a bit fiddly at first, but it’s well worth the effort if you find yourself frequently packing more than you expect during your trips.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: Upon close examination of the Forclaz bag, we found that our biggest concern involved the stitching at certain critical points, such as at the shoulder attachments and along key seams; we’d prefer to see more double stitching and bar tack reinforcements, as we found on the Patagonia Black Hole. This bag has notably high review scores on the Decathlon website, and its sturdy materials lead us to anticipate that it will wear well. That said, Decathlon’s limited warranty does not look as rock solid as Patagonia’s. There’s really no way for us to address this bag’s potential flaws without spending a lot more time with it, which we plan to do.

Dimensions: 21.5 by 15.5 by 12.5 inches (LWH) Capacity: 40 liters (expands to 60 liters) Other sizes: none

Lands’ End Waxed Canvas Travel Duffle Bag

A buy-it-for-life travel bag.

The more you use this rugged weekender, the better it will look. The canvas body, leather reinforcements, and brass hardware all promise durability, though we’d prefer more waxing in the canvas.

Get this if: You want a bag with a heritage look, to carry on quick trips, that can take a few knocks and age well with the wear.

Why it’s great: The Lands’ End Waxed Canvas Travel Duffle Bag is the toughest bag we could find—it’s made of sturdy canvas, with leather trim and brass hardware—that is also consistently available. The shoulder strap comes off, which is useful if you prefer to carry your bags by their handles. A small internal pocket is convenient for tucking away, say, your wallet or your house keys. The waxed duffle fits a specific aesthetic: It’s maybe not the bag you’d take on a business trip but rather to a cabin in the mountains. That outdoorsy look, however, has practical benefits, as with a little care a duffle like this should last a long time. (We should note, however, that Lands’ End no longer offers a lifetime warranty—you now have recourse only within a 90-day return period.)

Flaws but not dealbreakers: Waxed canvas is heavier than most modern fabrics (such as nylon and polyester), and we noticed the extra heft of the Lands’ End bag in comparison with the weight of other duffles we tested. Although Lands’ End describes this duffle as waxed, we’d call it lightly waxed at best. The canvas is mildly water resistant, but liquids won’t roll off it in the way you might see with more heavily waxed items. If you do want more protection, you can add more wax to the canvas yourself . When we tested the bag, it came in brown and navy. Currently, it’s available in both colors.

Dimensions: 24 by 11 by 11 inches (LWH) Capacity: 40 liters Other sizes: none

Cotopaxi Chumpi 35L Duffel Del Día

A duffle that’s also a backpack.

This bag can be a backpack or a duffle—and it works well as either. If you plan on walking long distances and want multiple ways to carry your gear comfortably, this is a great option.

Get this if: You expect to walk a lot on your trips—touring cities, say, or doing some light adventuring—and need a comfortable way to carry your stuff, but you don’t require an extra-tough gear bag. Also, this bag is a good choice if you want to support a B Corp and its social and sustainable missions .

Why it’s great: The Cotopaxi Chumpi 35L Duffel Del Día has dedicated backpack straps built into the top that hide away behind two flaps secured by metal clasps when not in use. Many combo backpack-and-duffle designs rely on the handles serving double duty as backpack straps, which usually means they aren’t very good as either. The Chumpi’s dedicated straps allow it to perform as an actually comfortable backpack. When you’re finished wearing it, converting it back into a duffle is simple: Just tuck the backpack straps away and grab the bag by its handles. Unlike several other backpack duffles we tested, this Cotopaxi bag positions its zipper against your back while you’re using it as a backpack. It’s a simple, seemingly obvious (but rare) design choice that lends more peace of mind when you’re walking down a busy street or absentmindedly taking in the sights.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: Is a duffle with shoulder straps as good as a backpack? No. Like most backpack duffles, the Chumpi has a tendency to slouch a bit when it’s on the shoulders. That said, I carried the Chumpi fully packed for several miles while on a trip, and I found that using its backpack straps was a nice alternative to shifting a single shoulder strap from side to side. Note that when we tested the Chumpi, it was available in a range of solid colors. Since then, Cotopaxi has switched to making the duffle using a patchwork of remnant fabrics, which is what the Del Día name refers to. This means that each bag will be one of a kind—but also possibly more boldly colored than some people may like.

Dimensions: 20 by 10.5 by 10.5 inches (LWH) Capacity: 35 liters Other sizes: none

Matador Freefly Packable Duffle

Lightweight and packable.

This ultralight duffle folds away into its own front pocket or compresses further into a cinch sack. The weatherproof material is paired with sealed zippers, which should keep everything inside dry in moderate rain.

Get this if: You want a lightweight alternative bag for emergencies, a day bag when you travel, or a last-second hauler for going around town.

Why it’s great: Unlike many packable or ultralight bags, which tend to behave like unruly sacks unless they’re filled to the hilt, the 30-liter Matador Freefly Packable Duffle manages to keep its shape whether it’s empty, partially packed, or stuffed like a sausage. It doesn’t pack down quite as small as some bags we’ve tested in the past, but it comes close enough—shrinking to about the size of a mango—and it’s much more pleasant to use as an actual bag once it’s on your shoulder. Where this Matador duffle truly excels, though, is in the high quality of its materials. With reinforced, treated nylon and sealed zippers, the Freefly is especially robust for a lightweight packable. Matador added a few compression straps on the side, too, though personally I find them more trouble than they’re worth on most bags.

All Matador products are backed by a decently trustworthy three-year warranty.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: One glaring flaw is the shoulder strap. Although the strap is adjustable, it’s nothing more than an inch-wide strip of nylon. Even for a pared-down packable bag, that’s pretty meager considering the bag’s 30-liter carrying capacity. For shorter-term carries, this bag does just fine, but if you need a duffle to constantly haul around town, one of our other picks is likely to keep you (and your shoulders) happier. However, if you need a spare bag to tuck into your suitcase, an extra gym bag while traveling, or a way to carry purchases you pick up on a trip, this bag is a great choice. This duffle comes in only one color, black.

Dimensions: 22 by 11 by 8 inches (LWH) Capacity: 30 liters Other sizes: none

WaterField Packable Duffel

A packable bag for travel.

Like the Matador, this packable duffle folds into its own pocket and is weatherproof. A few thoughtful details—including a luggage loop—make the WaterField more suitable for travel than other models we tested.

Get this if: You need a packable duffle that easily doubles as a carry-on item—it has a luggage handle slot—and provides extra weather protection.

Why it’s great: WaterField continues to make some of the best overall bags we’ve come across in the past few years, and the Packable Duffel is no exception. It’s more expensive than the Matador Freefly , but its upgraded materials and more-robust stitching and build may make the higher cost worth it for certain people. Travelers especially will welcome the luggage loop, which fits over suitcase handles. The exterior of the bag is made from Taslan—a lightweight but substantial woven fabric with an added water-resistant coating, which is complemented by self-sealing waterproof zippers similar to those on the Matador. The interior is lined with a ripstop nylon. Both fabrics are very high-quality materials, helping the bag stand out from the competition. How, exactly? You can scrunch this bag down to about the size of a couple of pairs of socks (it fits into a 9.5-by-8.5-inch pocket), store it for weeks, then open it up and shake it out, and the bag will look fresh and presentable without creases or stress lines. It doesn’t pack down quite as small as the Matador, but many people might prefer its more-structured design. The bag has no shoulder strap, but the handles are long enough to let you shoulder the bag and carry it under your arm.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: We wish the nylon strap made for looping over your suitcase handle were more robust. Many companies making underseat bags have opted for an entire “slip-through” panel, which holds the bag securely against your luggage without letting it slouch over.

Dimensions : 8 by 18 by 10 inches (LWH) Capacity : 24 liters (expands to 30 liters) Other sizes : none

Dakine Split Roller 110L Bag

A rolling duffle to check.

This bag offers the space and easy-to-maneuver wheels of a good suitcase in the flexible shape of a duffle bag. Multiple interior and exterior compartments let you easily organize and separate all of your gear, too.

price may vary by color or style

Get this if: You want a rolling duffle that’s well organized. Also, this is a good choice if you need a bag that’s great for checked-luggage excursions and other types of long-distance travel but want something a little more pliable and easy to maneuver than a traditional wheeled suitcase .

Why it’s great: The Dakine Split Roller 110L Bag combines the best parts of checked luggage—internal organization, wheels, and a cavernous interior—with the soft, flexible frame of a duffle bag. The Split Roller opens like a clamshell; one side of the “shell” is divided into top and bottom compartments, and the other consists of one large main compartment. Mesh dividers separate all three compartments to keep everything in place. When you expand this duffle, it holds about 110 liters—nearly 20 liters more than our top pick for checked luggage . But the Split Roller can also adjust to carrying lighter loads, as it works similarly to an expansion case: The bag has a collapsible brace in the front section that can either fold out for extra space or fold back to let the top of the bag lie flat. Two external pockets let you easily access your everyday things and travel items without opening the bag itself. (The duffle also comes in an 85-liter version .)

Similar to many of the rolling duffle models we tested, the Split Roller has dependable #10 YKK zippers and 8 cm urethane wheels. Both features are good enough for a bag of this design and price. Dakine also uses a variety of polyester and Cordura nylon materials for various versions of the Split Roller, ranging from 600-denier polyester (good for most people) to 1,000-denier Cordura blend with DWR coating (useful if you abuse your gear or travel through tough or wet conditions). We tested the 600-denier polyester fabric in the black color, and it seemed plenty durable for a travel duffle. It’s also the least expensive fabric option that Dakine offers; if you instead opt for one of the tougher, water-resistant options, you pay a little more. Dakine covers its products with a limited lifetime warranty (Dakine defines “lifetime” as being 10 years).

Flaws but not dealbreakers: If the Split Roller is not packed properly—with the heaviest items toward the wheels—the bag can lean and even tilt over when left upright. More often than not, the Split Roller stays upright, but it isn’t as stable as the Patagonia Black Hole Wheeled Duffel Bag 100L . However, the bag’s well-thought-out organization and durable construction more than make up for this small frustration.

Dimensions: 32 by 17 by 13 inches (LWH) Capacity: 110 liters Other sizes: 85 liters

Yeti Panga 50L Waterproof Duffel

A tough bag for wet adventures.

If you want the toughest possible duffle, this is our choice. It’s comfortable to carry, waterproof, and close to indestructible. However, it typically costs nearly twice as much as the 55-liter version of the Patagonia Black Hole.

Get this if: You want the absolute toughest, most durable waterproof duffle for your adventures—particularly if those adventures leave you wading with your gear through streams or torrential rains.

Why it’s great: A waterproof nylon shell and zipper keep your stuff dry even if you submerge the Yeti Panga 50L Waterproof Duffel completely. I didn’t quite believe it until I tested the duffle several times, carrying it fully packed into the beach breaks of Oahu’s North Shore, where its impermeable barrier held in enough air to easily float my 220-pound frame and still kept the towels, clothes, and sneakers inside bone-dry. If you’re on a trip where your bag might end up in the water, you’re sure to appreciate this feature. Like the Patagonia Black Hole Duffel , the Yeti Panga Waterproof Duffel comes with a plethora of lash points that you can use to secure your bag on your adventures. Thanks to its rigidity, the Panga is also surprisingly comfortable to use as a backpack. (Its handles serve as the backpack straps.) The Panga comes in two larger sizes, as well: 75 liters and 100 liters .

Flaws but not dealbreakers: The price of the Yeti Panga is nearly double what you pay for a similarly sized Patagonia Black Hole. All that weatherproofing isn’t light, either—the Panga is the heaviest bag we tested, weighing more than 5 pounds when empty. If you need a waterproof bag as tough as the Panga that also includes wheels for load assistance, the Ortlieb Duffle RS is a good option. However, wheels are just one more thing to break on a bag, and the necessary skid plates and axles tend to make rolling duffle bags like the Ortlieb a bit less flexible than the Panga. The Panga comes in two colors (gray and tan), plus an occasional seasonal color.

Dimensions: 23.5 by 10 by 14 inches (LWH) Capacity: 50 liters Other sizes: 75 liters , 100 liters

If you don’t mind a stylized look for your everyday-carry bag: Previously we listed the Topo Designs Classic Duffel 20″ in the Competition section, but we now believe that you should consider it if you like its look. This is a great 27.5-liter duffle with Cordura nylon and rucksack details, but it has a specific style that many people may not like. Topo has a reputation for making excellent gear, though, and if you find this bag appealing, you won’t go wrong with it. (It is currently missing from the Topo Designs website; we’re investigating.)

If you transport heavy stuff that can’t get wet: Consider the 85-liter Ortlieb Duffle RS , which is a decent waterproof alternative to the Yeti Panga 50L Waterproof Duffel, especially if you prefer built-in wheels to assist with the load. The Ortlieb bag, which is made with PVC-coated polyester fabric, has a rigid aluminum floor plate; this piece protects the base of the bag without taking up a significant amount of space (an issue with other rolling duffle bags). Note that all the extra parts mean more complexity and more things to break. Our biggest complaint, though, is that when the bag is left upright, it has a tendency to tip over because of its narrow wheelbase. (The bag also comes in 110- and 140-liter sizes.)

We began our research by poring through brand websites, reading bag blogs, and surveying a multitude of review sites. We divided the field into several broad categories: duffles for everyday use plus weekend trips and longer travel, backpack duffles, packable duffles, and duffles meant to haul adventure gear. Working from an initial list of 88 possible contenders, we considered each duffle’s design, accessibility, size, features, organization, materials, price, and brand warranty. Using those criteria, we narrowed the list down to 33 bags that we called in for hands-on evaluation.

To test the duffles, I packed and unpacked each one and used them as much as possible in my day-to-day life. With every bag I tested, I asked myself, “Would I live with this bag? Could it replace something I already have?” Specifically, I looked at the following:

Ease of use and accessibility: How easy is the bag to pack, unpack, and otherwise use in everyday situations? Does it have enough pockets? Are they well organized and well placed? I also kept a close eye on zippers and how they acted, tugging them from different angles. It was especially important to me that the zippers on our picks were easy to open on the go, even when the bag was hanging from a shoulder.

Carrying comfort: A great bag is pretty useless if it isn’t comfortable to heft and cart around. After I loaded up each bag with as much gear, clothes, sneakers, books, and usual ephemera of life as I could, I carried it around. I spend a lot of my time on the move, so each of our potential picks became—at least for a short while—something of an everyday-carry companion in my life until I understood the bag’s character.

Quality of the materials: Most bags are made from one of a handful of fabrics (nylon, waxed canvas, polyester). I paid special attention to the material’s weight, heft, and weave, as well as any special tech like TPU coatings.

Weight: Duffles should be light enough to carry easily but not so light that they feel flimsy or about to tear. Most of our picks weigh less than 3.5 pounds.

Cost: We eliminated any duffles that we determined were overpriced for what they were. You do get what you pay for in this category, though, and better quality and materials are often worth spending just a little more.

Guarantee or warranty: Not all company policies are equal. We favored bags that came with a warranty of two years or more.

Versatile/adventure duffles

Sea to Summit Duffle Bag : Although this heavy, water-resistant adventure duffle is good for the price, we were more impressed by the consistent performance and simplicity of the Patagonia Black Hole (our pick among versatile duffles) and the sturdier construction of the Yeti Panga (our pick among waterproof duffles).

The North Face Base Camp Duffel L : This duffle is similar to the Sea to Summit Duffle Bag, except it lacks that bag’s rigidity and attention to detail.

Lo & Sons Catalina Deluxe : We liked the separate compartment at the bottom of the bag that allows you to pack a few pairs of shoes, say, or to separate out dirty laundry as you travel. But the materials of this duffle weren’t as good as those of other picks, and it didn’t carry as comfortably.

Everyday duffles

Mission Workshop Transit Duffle : We aren’t sure who this laptop duffle is for. The bag was so divided up and over-organized that we had trouble carrying much of anything in it. In addition, the main zipper was too short, which made it hard for us to open the center of the bag all the way.

Bellroy Lite Duffel : We very nearly made this one of our picks except for the odd design of its top zipper closure. That zipper extends out past the edges of the bag’s main compartment, which makes it easier to access the interior but also leaves two large openings on either end of the bag when it’s closed. The extra length of zipper does fold down, but the bag doesn’t have buttons or clasps to keep it shut. The gap feels like a large oversight, especially given the duffle’s price.

Backpack duffles

Osprey Transporter Duffel 40 : This duffle bag wasn’t great to pack or carry in our tests. The materials felt thin, and the straps didn’t sit well on our shoulders when the duffle was fully packed.

Piorama A10 : An adjustable duffle bag that’s both a day bag and an extra-large backpack? Seems like it should be great, but in practice the design felt fiddly, and the cinched sphincter-like ends were unsettling.

Topo Designs Mountain Duffel : The one flaw of this Topo backpack duffle is that the shoulder straps are placed on the bottom of the bag, which means that as you wear it, the zipper is worryingly exposed to the world.

Rolling duffles

Patagonia Black Hole Wheeled Duffel Bag 100L : The rolling Black Hole’s design is identical to that of the non-rolling version that we like, except for the addition of wheels, a reinforced base, and haul handles. Those additions do make it heavier and less flexible than the non-rolling bag. The best part of the design is that it stands upright unassisted, even when empty. But most travelers are better served by the organization and extra pockets in the Dakine Split Roller .

Amazon Basics Ripstop Wheeled Duffel 30″ : Inexpensive and well organized, this Amazon Basics duffle could almost qualify as a budget pick. However, you get what you pay for in this case, and we found that most of the internal materials, such as the pocket dividers, weren’t especially durable. Most people are better served spending a bit more for quality materials.

Osprey Transporter Wheeled Duffel 90 : This Osprey model is a large, cavernous bag on wheels similar to the Patagonia Black Hole Wheeled Duffel Bag. But the Patagonia duffle has a sturdier frame and tougher materials than the Osprey, which needs a bit more structural reinforcement to compete. Again, however, we ultimately preferred the organization and split interior of the Dakine Split Roller in this category.

We also tested duffles from American Apparel, eBags, Incase, Marmot, Matador, Osprey, Thule, and Tortuga that have since been discontinued.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

We’re testing Peak Design’s Travel Duffel in both the 35- and 65-liter sizes. Matador has also released a revamped version of its On-Grid 25-liter duffle, called the ReFraction Packable Duffle , which has sealed zippers. We’ll take a look soon.

Meet your guide

Kit Dillon is a senior staff writer at Wirecutter. He was previously an app developer, oil derrick inspector, public-radio archivist, and sandwich shop owner. He has written for Popular Science, The Awl, and the New York Observer, among others. When called on, he can still make a mean sandwich.

Further reading

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The KNKG Plus Duffel is a versatile, durable bag for most gym goers. We also have options for those who prefer other types of bags, such as totes and backpacks.

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Struggling to pack for your weekend away? The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L fits so much more than you’d expect.

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• Travel Products
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• Suitcases + Duffel Bags

The 11 Best Rolling Duffel Bags of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

We tested 34 bags to find the best rolling duffel for every trip.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying
• Others Bags We've Written About
• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

New travel gear can quickly add up, so it’s important to invest in the right pieces that will last a long time, especially for luggage and other bags. To help you in this journey, we set out to find the best of the best when it comes to rolling duffels, combing the market before ultimately putting 34 products through a battery of tests.

We packed them to the brim to test their capacity. We went over them with a fine-tooth comb to consider design features big and small. We pushed them, pulled them, and steered them every which way to test their maneuverability. We then took a baseball bat to them to test durability (seriously). And, above all else, we evaluated all of these tests and the bags' respective price tags to consider what total value these bags offer.

It was tough work, but somebody had to do it — and that’s how we landed on our favorite rolling duffels. We found the perfect pick for anyone traveling light, a standout for camping trips and other outdoor adventures, and more.

Best Overall

Patagonia wheeled duffel bag.

It’s incredibly spacious and durable.

Because it’s so large, some may struggle with maneuvering it.

Get on board with the bag that travelers around the world swear by: Patagonia’s Black Hole Duffel, which comes in a 40-liter, a 70-liter, and an unbelievably spacious 100-liter version. We tested the largest size which features a large main compartment that makes it a cinch to pack whatever gear you throw its way, as well as a zippered side pocket and mesh pockets for smaller items you want to keep separate. Packing quickly, we found that we had so much room to spare during tests. If we were to roll the clothes or even use packing cubes , we could fit double or triple the number of items.

The bag is also highly weather-resistant, crafted from a coated ripstop material made from 100 percent recycled fabric, lining, and webbing — exactly what you want to pack for a trip to Antarctica . The durable, oversized wheels performed well during our maneuverability tests, but travelers should note that this is a very, very large bag that smaller individuals may have difficulty moving around, especially in crowded spaces. We also noticed after regularly using the bag for two months that it sometimes falls over when fully packed because it is front-heavy.

The Details: Checked | 32 x 16 x 14 inches | 10.5 pounds | 100-liter capacity | Recycled polyester ripstop with weather-resistant, recycled TPU-film laminate

• PHOTO: TripSavvy / Jessica Juliao
• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao
• PHOTO: TripSavvy / Jhett Thompson

Most Stylish

Solo rolling duffel.

It's stylish, durable, and extremely functional with multiple organizational features.

It could use a few more interior pockets.

If you want to make a fashion statement at the airport without sacrificing the organizational features and quality of heavier duty luggage, look no further than the Solo Leroy Rolling Duffel. It's equipped with a large shoe pocket that can hold multiple pairs of shoes, several other internal and external pockets, smooth-running zippers, two easily maneuverable wheels, and an extra-spacious main compartment, but still looks sleek and stylish for women and men alike. Plus, it was both easy to roll on the ground and easy to carry as a duffel since it's not overly large.

As we tested it, we particularly appreciated its durability: after repeatedly tossing it off counters and smacking it with a baseball bat (to recreate the wear and tear of travel, of course), it showed zero signs of damage. It even holds it shape better than a typical floppy, unstructured duffel, yet it's still soft enough to squish down a bit come time to store it in an overhead bin or packed away at home. We also loved that it's compact for a spacious duffel, making it portable and small enough to use as a carry-on, though we'd add more internal pockets if we could.

The Details: Carry-on | 22 x 12 x 12 inches | 6.04 pounds | Polyester

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Most Durable

Away the outdoor rolling duffel.

It's crafted from water- and abrasion-resistant materials and features ample storage space.

We thought it was odd that the tracks for the adjustable handle are fully visible inside the bag.

We were seriously impressed with how rugged and durable Away's 85-liter rolling duffel is, a newer launch from the popular luggage brand . A polycarbonate backing gives the bag its structure, while the rest of the duffel is crafted from water- and abrasion-resistant recycled polyester fabric, which gives the bag an overall light feel. Aside from a few minor scuffs near the bottom of its two wheels, the duffel emerged virtually unscathed after we hit it a couple of times with a metal bat, which leads us to believe that it'll be able to withstand the wear and tear of travel.

The duffel’s main compartment is cavernous, and we found that we could pack all of our essentials and gear, including a sleeping bag, with plenty of room to spare. Inside, you’ll find compression straps and two zippered mesh pockets inside of the bag’s lid that are ideal for stowing away smaller items like magazines, cables, or even socks and underwear. The duffel's exterior features a zippered pocket at the base of its adjustable handle, three additional handles on each of the bag's remaining sides, and two security straps to further compress your items. The handle worked well, but we didn't love that the tracks are visible inside the bag because you have to pack around them.

The Details : Checked | 30.5 x 16.1 x 11 inches | 7.96 pounds | 85-liter capacity | Polycarbonate back shell, recycled Dual Action polyester duffle body | Weather resistant

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Best Organization

Ogio terminal travel bag.

There’s tons of room thanks to internal and external compartments.

It’s on the heavier side when empty.

If you love built-in organization, this bag has multiple compartments ideal for two weeks’ worth of clothing, shoes, accessories, toiletries, and more that can fit far more than needed. We also appreciated the variety of external handles which make loading this bag into a car or onto a luggage rack a cinch. We found the wheels to roll very smoothly, making it easy to maneuver this checked bag. After six months of use, we think it's the perfect size — large, but not bulky. It gives off major “campfire couture vibes,” so we love the idea of taking this bag on an outdoor adventure or road trip, which could call for a wide range of gear.

The Details: Checked | 16 x 13 x 29 inches | 10.6 pounds | 95-liter capacity | 420D doby nylon

Best Budget

Travelers club upright rolling duffel bag.

It has very sturdy handles, especially considering the affordable price tag.

It's too big to fit in the overhead bin.

When we packed this duffel with two weeks’ worth of winter gear, there was plenty of room left over. The main compartment was much more spacious than we originally thought, and we especially loved the variety of exterior pockets which made staying organized a breeze. The handle, while sturdy, is on the thinner side and the wheels are smaller than some others on this list, which made maneuvering this bag over carpet, cement, and through tight turns marginally more challenging. After traveling with this bag regularly for six months, we love how it rolls, though you're going to have to check this luggage. For under $50, you’ll have a hard time finding a better rolling duffel, and it comes in a wide range of colors for an option that will stick out at baggage claim, too.

The Details: Checked | 8 pounds | 30 x 12 x 13 inches | 77-liter capacity | Polyester

Best Splurge

Tumi large split 2-wheeled duffel.

It maneuvers very well across different environments.

The exterior picks up dust easily.

They say that travel is about the journey, not (necessarily) the destination, and packing a Tumi bag is always an enjoyable part of any journey. In fact, after regularly using the bag for six months, we found that it can fit weeks' worth of clothing while keeping gear and accessories organized in individual pockets. The fabric and the zippers are substantial and luxurious, and the bag easily held up for multiple bat whacks and drops from a high table. We were especially impressed by how easily it maneuvered over a variety of different surfaces and noted how smoothly the oversized wheels worked on uneven carpeting, too. This rolling duffel also has enough compartments to satisfy any organization enthusiast, with two sides including one with added compression straps to hold clothing securely. The price tag may be steep, but this bag’s looks and performance make it a worthy investment.

The Details: Checked | 16 x 30.3 x 14 inches | 11 pounds | 98-liter capacity | Ballistic nylon

Best Lightweight

Eagle creek cargo hauler.

It’s the lightest bag we tested, and it even includes a packing cube and convertible backpack straps.

After using this bag for six months, we felt it can be cumbersome and isn't suitable for light packers.

This bag is proof that when it comes to luggage, bigger can, in fact, be better. It packs an astonishing 130 liters of volume (which is rare to find, even in bags two or three times its weight), yet manages to clock in at a positively featherweight 4.4 pounds — making it one of our favorite lightweight luggage options. But just because it’s big doesn’t mean it doesn’t pull its own weight: it’s constructed from an abrasion-resistant material that’s designed to last and repells anything from rain to sleet and snow.

Our favorite thing about this bag was that it also converts to a backpack, which can justify the fact that it won’t stand upright (as you wouldn’t want a hard frame pushing into your back if carrying that way). We can see this bag being an excellent choice for a safari bush plane with weight limits, or any instance when you wanted to start off with a featherweight bag before loading up your gear into the bag and the included packing cube.

The Details: Checked | 34 x 13.75 x 15 inches | 4.4 pounds | 129-liter capacity | 800D nylon dobby, 1680D ballistic polyester, recycled 200D polyester | Water repellent

Best Carry-on

Vera bradley foldable rolling duffel bag.

The hefty bottom compartment is great for packing multiple pairs of shoes.

It has a pretty large capacity for a carry-on, but it may not be the best choice for overpackers.

The ideal carry-on is one that not only performs well, but looks good doing it, too. This bag manages to do both. It’s made from ReActive, a lightweight, durable, water-repellent material made from recycled water bottles, and folds down neatly for storage when not in use. There’s an interior curtain that can be zippered to separate the top and bottom compartments to keep you organized, and the main compartment also features one mesh slip pocket for smaller items. In fact, we packed enough items for a several-day trip in the top before realizing there was room at the bottom for at least four more pairs of shoes. Plus, this being Vera Bradley, the bag also comes in a few stunning patterns as well — so in a sea of black carry-on bags, you’ll be sure to stand out.

The Details: Carry-on | 10 x 20.5 x 12.5 inches | 5.6 pounds | 40-liter capacity | Ripstop polyester | Water repellent

Best for Bulky Gear

Thule chasm wheeled duffel.

The main compartment is basically just one giant, superdeep pocket that's perfect for large items.

The bag is so large it can be difficult to roll.

For anyone who wants a large-capacity bag with a simple design, the Thule Chasm wheeled duffel is the perfect choice. If you're packing for a long trip or one that involves bringing a lot of bulky items, this is a great option thanks to its large compartment that is easy to pack. There's an additional pocket on the top with a mesh opening between it and the main compartment, as well as two mesh zipper pockets on the lid to keep smaller items organized and secure.

The handle works well, but the bag is so bulky, the best way to transport this bag is by rolling. We found that the wheels glide quite smoothly, but the bag can be unwieldy due to its size, so it may not be best for those who know they're likely to move in a hurry. Throughout our tests, we found the bag to be extremely durable with no damage to the bag after we hit it with a bat. The outer seems exceptionally tear-resistant and thick, so it's great for anyone looking to get the most out of their luggage.

The Details: Checked | 15.4 x 16.9 x 32 inches | 10.2 pounds | 110-liter capacity | Recycled 900D polyester | Water repellent

Gonex Rolling Duffel Bag With Wheels

The bag is like a half-suitcase, half-duffel with a structured bottom and flexible top half.

The bag itself is on the stiffer side.

There’s a fine line between budget and value options — and we feel like this Gonex rolling duffel bag delivered quality at a very competitive price point, stacking up to many of the more expensive bags at a fraction of the cost. It’s a long, stiff bag, but we had no issues racing it through our obstacle course and over rougher surfaces. Even after six months of frequent use, the wheels move with élan and the handle was easy to hold. We loved the design, too — it’s like a half-suitcase, half-duffel with a structured bottom half and a fabric upper flap, plus easy-to-adjust straps on the sides to secure the contents even more. We were also impressed with the sturdiness of this bag, including the structured bottom half, which makes the bag even more durable.

The Details: Checked | 16 x 15 x 33.4 inches | 10.5 pounds | 100-liter capacity | 1200D PVC | Waterproof

Best Monogram

Mark & graham terminal 1 checked rolling duffle bag.

It's customizable, and one of the most spacious duffels we've tested.

The monograming costs extra.

When we say this bag is spacious, we mean this bag is spacious . In fact, Travel + Leisure senior editor Jasmine Grant said she "couldn't ask for more room in a duffel bag" as she tested it. At 28 by 12.5 by 6 inches, this bag is large enough to fit several days worth of clothes and accessories in the main compartment and couple pairs of shoes in the separate shoe compartment on top of the bag. While the bag did lack organizational features and pockets beyond the shoe compartment, we felt it wasn't necessary anyway — the bag is structured so the items inside don't ball up, and it zips opens wide enough to see everything inside easily.

You might think a bag of this size would look cumbersome and unsightly at the airport, but thanks to stylish features like gold hardware, a structured design, and the option to add a monogram, we felt sleek as can be while we were testing it out. The monogram options are plentiful and attractive (you can choose from 19 styles, 11 colors, and three character lengths), and we noticed they're high quality — no peeling or scratching off expected. You do have to pay extra for the monogram, though.

The Details: Checked | 28 x 12.5 x 6 inches | 8.5 pounds | Recycled polyester with polyurethane trim

Other Rolling Duffels We Liked

Some rolling duffels we tested couldn’t quite earn a spot on our list, but had standout features that may meet the needs of some travelers.

Briggs & Riley Baseline Large Two-wheel Duffel : This luxury rolling duffel definitely delivers on the style front. We especially liked that it had both a large duffel section and a flat packing section, but it is on the more expensive side and only had one exterior pocket.

Travelpro Bold by Travelpro Check-in Drop-bottom Expandable Rolling Duffel : This rolling duffel is made from a rugged, water-repellant and stain-resistant polyester fabric and comes with a reinforced telescoping handle, but it’s incredibly bulky and may be difficult to store.

Osprey Transporter Wheeled Duffel : This water-resistant bag is great for inclement weather and rough handling conditions, but the exterior handles were awkward to hold, and we wish there was an additional handle to carry the bag horizontally.

In our quest to find the best-of-the-best wheeled bags, we combed the marketplace and narrowed our top selections down to 34 rolling duffels that then underwent a vigorous luggage testing process over a six-month period. We weighed them with luggage scales while empty before filling carry-on duffels with a week’s worth of clothes and checked duffels with closer to two week’s worth of clothes. We considered organizational and storage features such as padded sleeves, compression straps, pockets, and external daisy chains. We obsessed over how every single zipper opened and closed, too.

The tests continued with how these bags might perform in the real world. We rolled the duffels back and forth across a range of surfaces to test them for maneuverability, on everything from smooth lab floors to high-pile carpets. We even set up an obstacle course to make sure these bags can turn on a dime, taking notes on how smoothly the wheels and handles felt under pressure. And, perhaps most fun of all, we took a baseball bat to each bag to test them for durability. We also threw the bags off tables to check for wear and tear. Ultimately, we chose our favorites for this list.

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Tips for Buying a Rolling Duffel Bag

Check your airline’s size requirements.

Even the perfect rolling duffel won’t be much use to you if it doesn’t meet your airline’s size requirements for carry-on or checked luggage , so be sure to check online before committing to a new bag. This is especially important when it comes to carry-on duffel bags . It’s also worth mentioning that since duffel bags lend themselves to being stuffed to the brim, you may want to consider how much your bag weighs, especially if it’s on the larger side (or invest in a good luggage scale so you don't go over the weight limit).

Consider pockets, compartments, and other organizational features

With a roomy duffel bag, you may be tempted to go with a “more is more” mentality when it comes to packing, especially with the higher-volume duffels that have truly enormous main compartments. But it’s worth considering the smaller stuff, too. Different models of bags come with different varieties of internal and external organizational features such as zippered compartments, padded laptop or tablet sleeves, or even included packing cubes . It all depends on how organized you’d like to be and how much you’ll depend on your bag itself to keep you organized.

Look for multiple carrying options

A duffel, once packed, can vary widely in terms of bulk and weight, and a good bag will keep up with you in a variety of environments. You’ll want to make sure your bag has a variety of straps so you can carry it in multiple ways, whether that’s by hand via a top handle, by its telescoping handle as you roll it down long airport hallways, or perhaps by convertible backpack or crossbody straps for other alternatives.

Look for durable materials

The right duffel bag can last a lifetime, especially if you buy one made from the right materials. This is the kind of bag you’ll probably be checking at airports, throwing under buses, and really putting through the ringer in terms of durability, so look for materials that are up for the challenge. Ripstop fabrics in particular are extremely durable but also lightweight, and products coated with DWR or other weather-resistant coatings are an added bonus.

Frequently Asked Questions

There’s no right or wrong answer here. But for shorter business trips or weekend getaways, something carry-on sized with a maximum of 40 liters in volume, such as a weekender bag , is probably enough. If you’re packing for a week or more or looking to pack bulky camera equipment or camping gear , look at bags that hold 80-100 liters (you'll have to check your luggage, though).

Duffel bags are spacious, flexible, lightweight, and easy to carry. They don’t always have the same structural support or protective elements of a more traditional, four-wheeled suitcase, making them best for things that can’t necessarily break in transit. So, if you’re just traveling with clothes and soft goods, a duffel bag is a good choice for you.

The first step is always to read the manufacturer’s instructions — but you can clean most duffel bags with a damp rag, perhaps with a little soap or white vinegar, and then allow it to air dry fully before packing it again or stowing it away so it doesn't acquire mold.

Other Bags We've Written About

We've given plenty of other impressive rolling duffel bags a whirl — some of which we've covered in the past . These picks stood out because of their durability, quality materials, and impressive capacity, and we think they're also worth considering,

Ektronik Rolling Weekend Duffel Bag : Made from durable, water-resistant nylon, this duffel fits under most airplane seats yet offers ample space for a short weekend away.

Rains' Texel Check-in Bag : Those who frequent destinations with plenty of precipitation (whether that’s ski resort snow or tropical rain) would do well to invest in a fully waterproof duffel. The Texel Check-in Bag from Rains is a great option.

Eagle Creek No Matter What Rolling Duffel Bag XL : When size matters, choose the Eagle Creek No Matter What Rolling Duffel Bag XL. With a massive capacity of 130 liters, it pushes the boundaries for the maximum size allowable by most airlines but should offer enough room for just about anything you want to pack.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this article, contributor Todd Plummer used the T+L team’s testing insights to compile a list of the best rolling duffel bags for travel. We will continue to update this article as we test even more rolling duffel bags that we love.

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The 16 Best Travel Duffel Bags on the Market in 2024

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

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Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

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Table of Contents

Things to consider with travel duffel bags, the 12 best non-wheeled travel duffel bags, the 4 best wheeled duffel bags, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our  Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

Duffel bags are a great alternative to suitcases or backpacks and are designed to fit as much as you can comfortably carry.

Whether you’re looking for something small to carry on the plane, or a massive beast of a bag with wheels to pull behind you, there are plenty of great duffel bags to choose from.

A great duffel bag is one that has enough room for your clothing, enough extra pockets for your bits and pieces, and one that you’ll be able to carry, wear, or pull along with ease.

There are a number of qualities to consider before you buy your duffel bag.

Size and Capacity

If you’re planning on being airborne with your duffel, it’s pretty important that it meets the carry-on requirements of your airline . This way, you no longer have to worry about checking your bag into the hold, and you’ll always have your personal belongings within easy reach in the cabin.

Small duffel bags will offer between 25 to 50 liters of usable space, and most of them will meet the 22 x 14 x 9-inch specification for most major U.S. airlines. These smaller duffel bags are pretty useful for weekends away, solo travelers, and those who only like to pack the bare minimum.

If you think you need a little more space to carry your gear with you, consider a 50- to 75-liter capacity bag. Perfect for those who need more space for extra layers, but aren’t worried about carrying bulky equipment, most of these medium-sized duffel bags will need to be checked in when you fly.

For those who do need to take the kitchen sink with them, large duffel bags with a 75-liter or higher capacity are an excellent choice for adventurers who need to haul heavy loads as they go.

From tents to fishing gear, and everything in between, you can fit everything into these oversized duffel bags, but watch your weight as bags over 50 pounds may incur excess baggage fees .

Because not all duffel bags are equal, it means that some can weigh significantly more when empty than others. If weight is an issue for you when you travel, consider the following before you buy:

• Wheeled models will be heavier than non-wheeled duffels, with some weighing as much as 20% of your total 50-pound luggage allowance — even before you’ve started to fill it.
• Heavy duffel bags are exhausting to carry long distances or up and downstairs, so think about how easy it will be to walk with your duffel when you need to.

Wheels vs. No Wheels 

Wheeled duffel bags are much easier to lug around airports, and sling in and out of cars, boats, and trains. They usually have 1 main compartment that will hold your belongings with ease, making them the best-loved choice for those who need to take some serious sporting or camping equipment with them.

Duffel bags without wheels are also a strong contender for those looking to explore distant shores as they tend to be lighter to carry. Wheeled or rolling duffel bags can become unstable on rugged ground, causing your belongings to fall or spill. If you’re carrying it close to your person, this won’t happen.

Carry Options

The size of your duffel bag, how much it weighs, and how long you intend to be carrying it are all important considerations when it comes to choosing your new duffel bag.

Wear it like a backpack or carry it like a tote — there are options out there, and you should choose the one that best suits you.

• Backpack-style Straps — If you like to throw your bag on your back and do not need to access it regularly, many of the premium duffel bags on the market offer removable backpack straps that have some light padding to make them more comfortable than regular straps.
• Shoulder-style Straps — If you want easy access to your bag while you travel, and are only covering short distances, carry it using a shoulder strap. Lots of duffel bags come with shoulder straps that are removable.

Whether you choose a wheeled duffel, or one without, at some point, you’ll need to rely on a handle to make simple maneuvers with your bag.

Every type of duffel bag will come complete with a handle of one sort or another. Your duffel could come complete with either or both of the following:

• Carry Handles — This could be a simple padded handle that connects the backpack straps, a pair of dedicated handles like a handbag, or just a single carry handle. Any of these are useful for picking up your luggage and moving it from one place to another, as you’ll often need to do when you’re hot-footing it around the globe.
• Grab Handles — Located at either end of the bag, or somewhere on the sides, these handles sit loose to the surface and can be used to “grab” your bag quickly or slide it along. These are very useful if you’re loading your duffel in an overhead bin, or putting it in a taxi.

Access, Pockets, and Organization

Duffel bags are designed for adventures, and with that in mind, you’ll no doubt want to make sure that you can carry everything with you when you go.

Most duffel bags will offer plenty of useful internal storage pockets to keep smaller items safe in transit and make it easy to find them when you need to.

External pockets are useful for items that you’ll need while you travel, such as your passport, your cell phone, or your noise-canceling headphones . Different brands of duffel bags will have different sizes and types of internal compartments.

If you’re paying bigger bucks for your bag, you may even find that it comes with expandable external pockets that work well for keeping dirty clothing or footwear away from the rest of your luggage.

Alternatively, they may have separate compartments inside the bag itself.

While we’re on the subject, we should also talk about daisy chains, also called lash points.

If you’re planning on traveling via plane, train, or automobile, you might be wondering why on earth you would need to worry about such things, but stick your duffel on a roof rack, saddle it to a donkey, or take it just about anywhere else when you get there and you’ll see how vital they are.

Bottom Line: If you’re planning on taking your bag with you on exotic adventures, you’ll want a duffel with plenty of reinforced lash points to keep your luggage safe and secure.

Water Resistance

Being water-resistant doesn’t always mean waterproof , and you’ll do well to remember this while you travel. Duffel bags that are advertised as “water-resistant” are purely designed to keep your bag, and your belongings, protected from light rain and damp ground. If you throw your bag in the ocean, it won’t work miracles.

Usually made from durable, ripstop fabric, water-resistant duffel bags are treated with a DWR solution that will help to prevent the moisture from soaking in.

You should also be wary of zipper openings as these may be the weakest point on your duffel, and the place where the wet gets in if the weather is bad.

If you’re keen on water sports, you may want to seek out a top-of-the-range duffel that is made from fabric that offers better protection against actual torrents of water, but if you’re planning on sticking to dry land, water-resistant should be good enough for you.

Material and Durability

If you want a duffel, you’re no longer tied to stuffy old canvas ones.

Duffel bags are available in a wide range of materials, including ripstop nylon, leather , laminated nylon skins, and other water-resistant and durable materials that should stay in good shape, wherever you take them.

1. Bargain Duffel Bag for Long Weekends and Short Trips 

Canway 65 Liter Weekender Bag

Weight: 1.74 pounds

Dimensions: 26.3 x 13.7 x 12.2 inches

Rocking in at under $30, this is one of the most popular and capable duffel bags on the market today. Made from water- and tear-resistant 600D polyester, this duffel will take you anywhere you want to go.

You’ll have no trouble stashing all your gear in here as there’s plenty of space. The main compartment is great for all your usual clothing and gear, but there are hidden extras that will make you grin with delight.

The shoe pouch, for example, is perfect for keeping smelly sneakers or wet flip-flops away from the rest of your gear, while the multiple pockets will keep your passport , travel documents, and anything else you hold dear, safe and sound on the go.

For easy transportation, the bag can be slipped over the luggage handle of a suitcase and a TSA lock can be used with the double zippers, keeping your gear safe.

What We Like

• Can be folded up and zipped away for storage

What We Don’t Like

• No solid base to give the bag structure

2. The Classic Adventure Duffel

Patagonia Black Hole Duffel Bag 40 Liter

Weight: 2.8 pounds

Dimensions: 21 x 13.7 x 10.6 inches

Made from a burly polyester ripstop material and covered with a highly weather-resistant TPU laminate and DWR finish , this is one heck of a duffel that will stand up to almost anything. A “black hole” of a bag, you’ll easily be able to fit everything you need in there for a long weekend, and is the perfect size for a carry-on.

The main compartment has a large opening that makes for easy packing, while the zippered side pocket is perfect for super-fast access to essential items like your phone, wallet , or boarding pass.

The 40-liter capacity is big enough for a fun-filled weekend or a longer adventure, and when it’s empty, it simply folds into its own pocket for easy storage.

Lightweight and incredibly durable, the Black Hole Duffel has removable, padded shoulder straps that keep it comfortable while you walk with it, and the reinforced haul handles make it super easy to grab quickly. Internal compression straps ensure that your luggage stays in one place during transit.

A black hole worthy of exploring, this duffel is an all-weather vessel for every type of travel.

• Made from 100% recycled fabric
• Not particularly heavy duty

3. Spacious and Capable Duffel Bag From Osprey

Osprey Packs Transporter 40 Expedition Duffel

Weight: 2.5 pounds

Dimensions: 21.6 x 14.57 x 1 inches

The Transporter from Osprey is available in 4 different sizes: 40L, 65L, 95L, and 120L. In this article, we’re concentrating on the 40L version.

Compact on the outside, but incredibly roomy on the inside, this Tardis-like duffel bag doubles as a backpack with its yoked shoulder harness.

Sling it over your back for long walks and adventures, then tuck that strap back in its very own storage pocket when you no longer need it. It’s clever additions like this that are synonymous with the Osprey brand and ones that many travelers love and actively look for.

Made from tough 0.2-millimeter, TPU-laminated, 800D nylon, this beauty is weather-resistant and incredibly capable of withstanding the roughest of journeys.

The zippers have easy-to-grab zip pulls for fast access on the go, and the main compartment has a smooth, lockable U-zip to keep your belongings safe. For those little extras that you need in transit, there are dual-zippered, 3D end pockets with overlapping rain flaps — perfect for stashing your phone, passport, or wallet.

Made by one of the best in the business, the Transporter is well worth its top price tag and is the kind of duffel bag that will last through many adventures.

• Can be carried like a backpack or messenger bag
• No compression straps

4. The Truly Waterproof Duffel Bag 

YETI Panga Airtight, Waterproof, and Submersible Bag

Weight: 5.14 pounds

Dimensions: 23.5 x 14 x 10 inches

From the makers of possibly the very best coolers ever made comes this supercool duffel bag that’s designed to protect your belongings from virtually anything.

The Panga comes in 50-, 75-, and 100-liter versions, but in this article, we’ll be looking at the smallest of the bunch — the 50L. Claiming to be a “100% dry duffel,” your gear should remain bone-dry no matter how wet the weather gets.

Made with a unique Hydrolock zipper and a U-dock terminal to create an airtight seal, you should never have to worry about getting wet with this beauty — perfect for adventurers who love water sports.

The thick-skin shell is made from high-density, high-quality nylon and thick TPU laminate, making it both puncture and abrasion resistant and perfectly able to withstand the bumps and knocks of international travel.

The 50-liter volume means you have plenty of space to pack everything you need for your next adventure, and there are 2 side pockets that are great for easy access to everyday essentials like your cell phone, passport, or wallet.

While designed to fit in an overhead airplane bin, we would stress that the rigid design of this duffel is both its saving grace and the biggest downside. You may struggle to squeeze it in if it’s fully loaded.

If you’re happy to take the risk of a potential baggage check situation, this is indeed one of the most awesome duffel bags on the market today. Waterproof, resilient, and a great investment that should last you forever.

• Waterproof material and zippers
• Not enough pockets to easily locate smaller items

5. Perfect for Long-term Traveling

The North Face Base Camp Duffel 95L

Weight: 4.05 pounds

Dimensions: 15.8 x 27.6 x 15.8 inches

This behemoth of a duffel from the big brand The North Face is plenty big enough to fit everything you need on your next adventure, and then some!

Available in a variety of sizes including 31L, 50L, 71L, 95L, 132L, and 150L, we’re focusing on the massive 95-liter model. Made from highly durable 1000D, phthalate-free, TPE fabric laminate and 840D junior ballistic nylon, this bag should last you for many years to come.

The main compartment is sizable and easy to secure using the D-zip opening with its weather-resistant zipper flap, while the internal mesh pocket will keep small things safe from sliding around during transit.

Full of useful additions that you’d expect from a brand that knows its globetrotting audience, there’s an end-cap zippered compartment that allows you to separate wet clothes or dirty shoes. There’s also a zip mesh storage bag that acts as a packing cube .

When it comes to carrying your life on your back, the detachable and adjustable, alpine-cut shoulder straps offer a perfect fit and allow you to carry your duffel backpack-style. The 4 compression straps will keep it tightly packed, and the water-resistant material should mean you’re good to go, no matter the weather.

Too big for overhead bins, this is one duffel that will have to be checked in. But, its size is great for anyone planning on long-term travel.

• D-opening for easy access to the main compartment
• Backpack straps could be more padded

6. The Business Travel Duffel

NEWHEY Garment Duffel Bag, 55L

Weight: 3.2 pounds

Dimensions: 22 x 12.2 x 12.6 inches

If you’re a high-powered professional who needs to travel a lot with your work, this duffel bag could be just the ticket. That said, you could also use it for weekend breaks, family vacations, and a whole host of other adventures.

Made from rugged, high-quality polyester and featuring strong, YKK zippers, this is a bargain of a bag that will suit many applications. A heady blend of form and function, this garment duffel bag will keep your suit crease-free while looking every bit as stylish as you do.

The design of this duffel enables you to pack your clothes flat, using the fixed hanger and tie pockets, before rolling it up to become a compact bag that should fit in most overhead cabin lockers. There’s also a handy compartment for keeping your phone, wallet, and passport safe, and a separate pouch for shoes and dirty clothing.

The interior buckle system holds your clothes in place while you travel, helping to keep them in tip-top condition for when you arrive at your destination.

• Fits a lot of clothing
• Quite heavy for a garment bag

7. The Ultra Lightweight Duffel Bag

Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler Duffel, 60L

Weight: 2.25 pounds

Dimensions: 26.75 x 10.25 x 13.5 inches

Another big bag from one of the bigger brands in adventure travel, this Eagle Creek ultralight duffel weighs a mere 2 pound 4 ounces but can hold a whopping 60 liters of gear. If that’s not the right size for you, the Cargo duffel also comes in 40-, and 90-liter versions.

Made from water-repellent Bi-Tech Armor Lite fabric, this duffel is designed for (nearly) all-weather, and the bartack reinforcements on the stress points ensure it keeps its strength no matter how full you fill it.

If you can’t decide how to carry your bag, this one gives you 3 different options. Either carry it using the removable backpack straps, padded top haul handles, or the side grab handle. There are also 6 incredibly useful lash points that can be used to secure the bag to a car’s roof rack, a camel, or any other unusual modes of transport.

Made up of 1 large compartment and 2 easily accessible end pouches, the U-shaped lid is easy to open, and when you’re not using it, the smart pack can compress into itself for easy carrying!

Perfect for camping trips, plane journeys, and even road trips , this is a little (big) bag that weighs next to nothing.

• Can be carried 3 different ways
• Backpack straps could be more durable

8. Lightweight Duffel That’s Roomy Enough for Any Traveler

Marmot Long Hauler Travel Duffel Bag

Weight: 2.4 pounds

Dimensions: 60 x 33 x 30.5 inches

Available in a choice of 4 sizes (S, M, L, and XL), it’s the medium bag we’re reviewing in this article. This duffel bag is made from 1000D 100% polyester with TPE laminate, making it superstrong and able to withstand the bumps and knocks of domestic or international adventures.

The lining is wipeable nylon, which is great for internal leaks , while the bag is reinforced with 100% ballistic nylon for extra strength wherever you’re headed.

Ideal for an overnight bag, a checked bag, or even for the gym, this duffel has a D-shaped main zipper opening for easy access and haul loops on both ends to make it easy to lift. The double bottom ensures its durability, and the tough YKK zippers will hold their own after many, many uses.

The main compartment is plenty big enough to carry your clothes and belongings for big trips, and the zippered end pockets are easily accessible, making them perfect for stowing your passport, keys, cell phone, and wallet.

There’s also a removable shoulder strap that converts to carrying handles, giving you multiple carrying options when you need them.

This bag may not set the world of luggage alight, but it’s a nicely-priced, secure, and durable duffel bag made by a brand that’s synonymous with high-quality travel bags and accessories. An investment well made, the Marmot medium duffel bag is a good-size bag for most occasions.

• Has a mesh pocket for dirty clothing
• Handles get in the way of the main compartment opening

9. A Large Duffel Perfect for Expeditions

Thule Chasm Duffel Bag

Weight: 2.86 pounds

Dimensions: 22 x 13 x 10 inches

The Thule Chasm Duffel bag comes in a choice of 2 different sizes (40 and 70 liters), but in this article, we’re looking at the sizable yet easy-to-carry 70-liter option.

Made from phthalate-free TPE laminate with a 1000D nylon base, this duffel is durable, water-resistant, and offers exceptional tear resistance. The bag also comes in an array of attractive colors. The Bluegrass option is perfect for sticking out in a crowd.

Because carrying your luggage is important, Thule has included removable backpack straps that make lugging your bag over long distances as easy as pie. When you get there, remove the backpack straps, and revert to using the duffel strap as usual.

The oversized, wide mouth opening is perfect for easy access to your belongings, and the external compression straps are designed to prevent your belongings from getting squashed up at the bottom when you carry it in backpack mode.

On the inside, there are also internal mesh pockets for keeping smaller items safe and a lockable, zippered side pocket for keeping small items secure and within reach while you travel.

• Removable shoulder straps
• Not overly comfortable carrying as a heavy backpack

11. Bargain Bag for Those Who Want Something a Little Different

Plambag Canvas Duffle Bag for Travel

Dimensions: 20.8 x 9.8 x 11.8 inches

This is a stylish and almost retro-looking duffel bag that’s well-suited to the traveler about town. Made from high-density, 16-ounce, 100% cotton canvas, and featuring classical bronze-tone hardware, this bag is as stylish as it is practical.

With a 50-liter capacity, the large main compartment can easily hold your clothes, shoes, and toiletries, as well as a 15-inch laptop or large iPad. The inner zipper pocket is perfect for smaller items, and the 2 side and front pockets, as well as 1 on the back, means you have plenty of space for everything you need speedy access to.

If you need even more space, there are 2 zippers on each side of this little duffel that will expand the capacity of the bag  and give you more room to carry your gear. The bottom of the bag is well cushioned and has a hard film protector to help keep your belongings dry and safe on dirty or damp floors.

Compact and easy to carry, this is a great overnight or weekend bag that has nicely padded handles and an adjustable and removable shoulder strap. Probably not ideal for around-the-world adventures, this is a capable duffel designed with style and practicality in mind.

• Lots of pockets to stay organized
• Zippers can get stuck

12. This Vintage Leather Duffel Shouts Sophistication

KPL 21 Inch Vintage Leather Duffel

Weight: 4.2 pounds

Dimensions: 21 x 9 x 11 inches

This vintage-style leather duffel bag is a real classic. Made from genuine, full-grain leather, the rich natural patina of this bag will change over time, ensuring that it always stands out from the crowd.

This beautiful bag will be just as home in a first class cabin as it would be out in the wild. Carrying a bag like this makes a real statement.

With 1 large compartment that will hold your clothes, shoes, and toiletries, you can keep the remaining 2 side zipper pockets free for items you need instant access to, such as your passport, cell phone, or wallet. The interior is also fully lined with canvas, giving more practicality and a high-end feel.

The front, satchel-style pocket adds interest and is in keeping with the vintage look of the bag, while the adjustable carry strap is well-padded and can be removed when not in use.

Want to carry it instead? This bag also comes with 2 sturdy, leather handles that will feel awesome in your hands as you carry your gear from plane to hotel and back again.

• Has a detachable shoulder strap
• The top compartment opening is quite restrictive

1. A Rolling Duffel That Can Handle Anything You Throw at It

Eagle Creek Travel Gear No Matter What Flashpoint Rolling Duffel XL

Weight: 4.19 pounds

Dimensions: 35.8 x 15 x 14.2 inches

Really, “no matter what” your adventures throw at it, this bag can handle almost everything! With a capacity of 128 liters, this duffel is big enough to cope with all of your gear while you travel.

Made from tough Bi-Tech fabric, it offers abrasion resistance and weatherproof capabilities, while the super-tough webbing and seam reinforcements mean your bag won’t fall apart when you fill it up.

If you find it too big to carry comfortably for more than a moment, you’ll be delighted to hear that this beauty comes with oversized, heavy-duty, treaded wheels for smooth mobility and maximum durability .

You’ll be able to easily maneuver it through airports, hotels, and business centers, while it will still be able to handle rough terrain like a boss.

If you need to carry it for longer distances, the adjustable and removable shoulder straps allow you to use it as a backpack. Or, you can use the center haul handle for rolling long distances and the side grab handles when loading it onto transportation.

The main compartment is easily accessible and plenty big enough to carry your clothing and equipment, while the front zipper pocket is ideal for storing quick-access items like your headphones , cell phone, and book.  

• Bright and easy to spot on the carousel
• Can be difficult to roll when heavy

2. Affordable Wheeled Duffel From Amazon Basics

Amazon Basics Ripstop Wheeled Duffel

Weight: 11.9 pounds

Dimensions: 37.5 x 18.25 x 16 inches

Another great bag from the Amazon Basics luggage range , this ripstop wheeled duffel comes in 26-, 30-, and 35-inch variations. They’re also available in multiple colors, such as black, blue, or red. Here we’ll look at the larger 35-inch version.

Its durable design makes this an affordable, yet practical option for anyone heading off on a vacation or adventure. With a 100% polyester top to protect against moisture in the air, and sides and a base made from 1680D ripstop nylon and 210D lining, this bag is strong and well-made for the price.

Because Amazon Basics understand that you want to take as much away with you as you possibly can, it has incorporated zippered front and main compartments for easy organizing and secure storage on the go.

The top portion is deep, and the opening is wide, making it easy to pack while the end pockets are perfect for stowing your passport, cell phone, wallet, keys, or anything else you need easy access to.

When it comes to moving your gear around, the upright, telescopic handle and inline wheels ensure easy mobility over smoother terrain and will cope (just about) with more rough roads on location.

Perhaps not as good as some of the more expensive rolled duffel bags, this is a good bet for the budget-conscious traveler.

• Comes with a 1-year warranty
• Can topple over if front-heavy

3. A Capable Rolling Duffel That Expands for More Space

Travelpro Bold 30″ Drop Bottom Rolling Duffel

Weight: 10.9 pounds

Dimensions: 30 x 17 x 16.5 inches

The largest rolling duffel bag in the Travelpro range , this drop-bottom bag is big enough to carry tons of stuff and easy enough to roll around the globe.

Made from rugged, high-density 100% polyester fabric, this duffel has a water-resistant coating to keep your belongings safe and dry wherever you may be. This duffel also comes with a “Built For A Lifetime Limited Warranty.”

Inside, the zippered divider panel allows for 2 separate packing spaces or 1 large packing compartment, depending on your needs, and the adjustable, hold-down straps will keep everything in place while you’re on the move.

Need more space? No problem. This duffel comes with a 2-inch expansion capability for additional packing capacity and a large zippered wet pocket for damp or dirty items.

The high-performance ball-bearing wheels are built for high-mileage travel, and the silky-smooth, ball-bearing, inline skate wheels make this duffel a pleasure to pull along with you.

The aircraft-grade aluminum handle system makes it incredibly comfortable to find the right height for your needs, and the compression straps will keep the duffel neatly pulled together.

• Can be packed as 1 large compartment or as 2 separate spaces
• Very easy to exceed airline baggage weight limits

4. Top of the Range Rolling Duffel With High-end Extras

Thule Crossover Rolling Duffel Pack

Weight: 9.47 pounds

Dimensions: 17.3 x 16.5 x 31.1 inches

This top-of-the-range Thule duffel bag is an all-singing, all-dancing kind of bag that will accommodate everything you need and more on your next adventure. With an 87-liter capacity and a wide, unobstructed mouth for easy loading, this is one of the best, wheeled duffel bags your money can buy!

The durable exoskeleton and the molded polypropylene back panel are designed to withstand rough terrain and absorb the impact of rugged travel. The durable, oversized wheels make for smooth rolling, and the patented Thule V-Tubing telescoping handles guarantee a steady and straight pull that’s a pleasure to roll along behind you.

The main compartment is as big as they come and can comfortably house all of your clothing and travel gear, while the divider allows you to keep your dirty gear separate from your clean stuff.

The heat-molded, crush-proof SafeZone is a revelation that allows you to protect your eyewear, portable electronics, and other fragile gear on the go. This is a handy feature for anyone who wants to take expensive gear with them while they travel. This compartment can also be locked and removed to keep your stuff safe.

A very impressive duffel bag, with a price tag to match, this is an investment item for those who want to up their duffel bag game.

• Durable and smooth-rolling wheels
• The telescopic handle is a bit short for taller people

For every journey, there’s the perfect duffel. While wheels or no wheels will always be a great debate, whatever camp you’re in, you’ll find something to suit your travel needs. With so many great duffel bag manufacturers out there, such as The North Face, Patagonia, Marmot, Osprey, and Eagle Creek, you’re spoiled for choice!

Like this review? We’ve got more! Check out these other articles on the best-of-the-best travel products on the market:

• The Best Checked Luggage Bags for Any Traveler
• The Best Carry-on Luggage Bags for Any Traveler
• The Best Laptop Backpacks To Buy for Travel
• The Best Travel Toiletry Bags for Men and Women
• All Our Best Travel Product Reviews – In One Place

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31 Best Travel Duffel Bags For Your Next Trip

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Written by Brittney Liu

Finding the perfect bag can be a game-changer when it comes to travel. Bags on the market today vary from enormous hard-shell checked luggage to tiny foldable tote bags that can fit in the palm of your hand. One of the most versatile travel bags is the always reliable duffel bag.

Duffel bags (also spelled “duffle” – and I will be switching between the two on a dime, so keep up) come in all shapes and sizes. You can find duffels perfect for a weekend trip or big enough to accompany you on a backpacking trip through Europe .

A traditional duffel bag usually features a main compartment with a zippered pocket on either end, a removable shoulder strap, and two smaller hand-carry straps.

Today, duffel bags include ingenious features such as wheels, weatherproof fabric, and internal zippered pockets to keep you organized . They range in price from super-affordable to ultra-luxury and everything in between. They’re also made for a range of travel activities and styles.

Continue reading for our recommendations on the best travel duffel bags for your next trip. So whether you’re flying to a new destination, going on a family camping trip or road trip, or are about to embark on the backpacking trip of a lifetime, we’ve got you covered. Check out our top picks and find the best travel duffel bag !

TL;DR – Our Top Duffel Bags

• Best Personal Item Bag : Bagsmart Weekender Duffle Bag
• For Carry-Ons: Away The Large Everywhere Bag
• For Checked Luggage: Osprey Rolling Transporter 120
• For Camping: Thule Chasm Sport Duffel Bag
• For Road Trips: Carhartt 40L Utility Duffel
• For Backpacking : The North Face Base Camp Duffel
• For Business Travelers: Briggs & Riley, Black, 22 Inch Garment Duffle Bag
• For Kids: Choco Mocha Kids Duffle Bag

Best Personal Item Duffel Bags

Duffel bags make a great option for your items on a flight. Nowadays, airlines can charge for larger carry-ons, but you’ll always be allowed at least one personal item for free.

The general rule for personal plane items is that they must fit under the seat before you. Check out our picks for the best travel duffel bags that can qualify as personal items:

1. Briggs & Riley Baseline Underseat Carry-On Duffel Bag

If you’re searching for a sleek and durable duffel bag that can fit under the seat in front of you while also being able to fit a bunch of stuff, the Briggs & Riley Baseline Underseat Carry-On Duffel Bag might be your winner.

Crafted with ballistic nylon fabric, this waterproof duffel bag can resist weather and wear and tear. This means you won’t have to replace a longer-lasting product after a few uses. The bag also features a slip-through back panel that you can easily slip over the handle of a rolling bag for hands-free travel.

The bag features an oversized main compartment, two side pockets, and a front pocket for everything you need to access quickly. The hideaway leather ID tag ensures that all your personal information is handy if necessary but hidden away while traveling.

2. Away The Everywhere Bag

Away has been one of my favorite travel brands for years. All their products are high-quality and offer a fantastic warranty and return policy if you’re unsatisfied with what you’ve received. The Away Everywhere Bag is the perfect size for a personal item.

This sleek and modern bag comes in six gorgeous colors for every style. The main compartment is divided into several pockets to keep your belongings safe and organized.

It also features a padded laptop sleeve that can accommodate a 15-inch laptop. The bag can be carried with an adjustable shoulder strap or two leather handles.

External pockets include a water bottle pocket and a slip pocket for easy access. This airline-approved duffel bag is the perfect companion for weekend and business trips.

3. ETRONIK Travel Duffel Bag

If you need an under-seat bag that fits everything, meet your new best friend: the ETRONIK Travel Duffel Bag . This small-sized airline duffel bag includes a ton of pockets as well as a smaller toiletry bag to keep you organized and worry-free.

The main compartment is perfect for all your belongings, like clothing, jewelry, and toiletries. A second compartment under the main compartment is perfect for shoes or dirty laundry. The bag also features convenient exterior pockets and a USB charging port, so you don’t have to carry your portable charger while powering up your device.

The ETRONIK Travel Duffel Bag comes in multiple stylish colors and prints and is made from water-resistant fabric. It comes at an affordable price, making it an awesome gift for the globetrotter in your life.

See Related: Grand Canyon Packing List: What You Need to Bring

4. Bagsmart Weekender Duffle Bag

Bagsmart is king when it comes to duffle bags on Amazon. My favorite bag of theirs to use as a personal item is the Bagsmart Weekender Duffle Bag . This ultralight duffle bag is made from a soft nylon fabric, so you can fill it up but still be able to fit it into small spaces if needed.

This multi-purpose duffle bag includes unique features that set it apart from other duffle bags, including an elastic strap for water bottles, a yoga mat strap , and an anti-theft zipper system. The removable shoulder strap lets you carry the bag by the handles or use the slip-through panel to set it on your suitcase.

Not only is this one of the best duffle bags for traveling , but you can also use it in your daily life as a gym bag or on-the-go tote. You can easily fit it under the seat of even the stingiest low-cost airlines.

5. Narwey Foldable Travel Duffel Bag

This Narwey Foldable Travel Duffel Bag is the best budget duffel bag on our list and one of the smallest. This foldable travel bag is packable and weighs less than half a pound, making it a perfect duffel bag to keep with you if you anticipate needing an extra bag at the end of your journey.

The bag is made to hold up to 45 pounds of weight in its one main compartment. It also has a small zippered pocket on the slip-through panel to access anything you may need in an instant. This affordable duffel bag comes with or without shoulder straps based on your preference.

Several colors and styles are available so everyone can find a style they like. With more than 11,800 five-star reviews on Amazon, this bag is sure to please. You’ll never have to worry about those sneaky extra baggage fees again!

Best Duffel Bags for Carry-Ons

More often, you’ll find duffel bags that are slightly larger than an airline personal item and more compatible with the size of standard carry-on luggage.

This can be a great choice for plane or train travel as you can push and squeeze a duffel bag into overhead compartments (assuming nothing too delicate is inside!) Many duffel bags fall into this size range – these are a few of our favorites.

1. Briggs & Riley ZDX Upright Rolling Duffel Bag

Briggs & Riley is one of our favorite brands here at ViaTravelers regarding luggage, and their ZDX upright rolling duffel bag is a great option if you’re looking for a carry-on duffel bag. This bag comes in three colors, and a matching 27-inch checked luggage version is available.

This versatile rolling duffel bag can be rolled for ultimate convenience or become handheld if you need to squeeze through small spaces quickly. Packing-wise, this duffel bag comes with awesome features like an RFID-shielding top pocket where you can keep your wallet and phone. The main compartment has a U-shaped zipper system to pack your bag easily.

Inside the main compartment, you’ll find several internal pockets to organize your belongings. The internal mesh pocket is great for smaller items like accessories or electronics , while the other large pocket features internal compression straps to fit more clothing items.

See Related: The Ultimate Summer Trip Packing List

2. Away The Large Everywhere Bag

We mentioned the original Away Everywhere Bag as a great personal item, but if you need something a little bigger, The Large Everywhere Bag from Away should be your go-to. This oversized bag is constructed using the most durable materials and makes the perfect companion for a long weekend getaway or a business trip.

One side of the bag almost fully unzips, allowing you to easily fit all of your clothing and belongings into the bag without being held back by a small zipper opening. On the other side of the bag, you’ll find a large padded laptop compartment that can fit up to a 15-inch laptop and features magnetic zippers for extra security and peace of mind.

You’ll also find two internal zippered pockets, an external zippered pocket, a key clip, and a water bottle pocket. The bag features a convenient removable shoulder strap and a slip-through pocket to be carried on your suitcase.

3. Bagsmart Carry-On Weekender

The Bagsmart Carry-On Weekender duffel bag features a 180-degree open design that opens just like a suitcase, making it super easy and convenient to pack. You can have one side of your bag filled with clothes and accessories and the other for shoes and toiletries.

In between the two sides of the bag, you’ll find an internal padded laptop sleeve as well as compartments that fit an iPad and portable charger. There are also two external pockets with zippers and a separate toiletries pocket .

This versatile bag works perfectly as a carry-on duffel bag or for road trips . If you’re traveling to a warm place such as Jamaica or Hawaii , you’ll have no issue fitting many cute outfits and sandals in this sleek and affordable duffel bag. If you’re searching for a great carry-on on a budget, this is your best carry-on duffel bag.

Best Duffel Bags for Checked Luggage

Sometimes, personal items and carry-ons just don’t do the trick. Luckily, plenty of larger duffel bags are made specifically for checking in on flights.

It’s important to choose one made of durable materials that’s preferably water-resistant or has a waterproof pocket for important items, as your bag will be handled by others and exposed to the elements during its journey.

1. Briggs & Riley Wheeled Duffle, Black, Checked-Medium 27-Inch

Briggs & Riley is known for producing quality travel gear with intuitive features and designs, and their 27-inch wheeled duffle bag is made to live up to that reputation. While it’s not an inexpensive bag, it is made to last, with a lifetime performance guarantee that even includes damage caused by the airlines.

A smart design has eliminated the bump bars you usually find at the bottom of rolling duffles, leaving much extra space for packing. Two panels on the sides of the interior also connect with cinch straps, allowing you to compress clothes and other contents as much as possible, gaining even more space.

The interior also has a PVC-lined pocket that resists water, perfect for isolating important items or packing away dirty or wet things. An external zippered pocket at the top allows easy access to items you might need. If you’re looking for luggage that’s truly built to last a lifetime , this bag should be at the top of your list.

See Related: The Ultimate Ski Trip Packing List

2. MIER Water Resistant Backpack Duffle

Like the idea of a bag that can take a beating? MIER makes an excellent heavy-duty water-resistant duffle bag that can also be worn as a backpack thanks to its shoulder straps that are hidden in external zippered pockets.

This versatile pack is a duffle bag, backpack, or suitcase as needed. Two sizes are available: a nearly 26-inch long, 60-liter option or a larger 28-inch long, 90-liter option.

Its main draw is its durability – super-strong materials and double-stitching allow you to get this bag wet, dirty, or packed to the max while protecting the things inside. A two-year warranty protects you from any manufacturing defects that prove anything otherwise.

If you’re headed on a backpacking or camping trip and don’t want to be dragging a bag on wheels, a bag like this is just right. With two sizes, three colors, and a great hold-up on the road, this duffle pack has proved very popular with travelers.

3. Osprey Rolling Transporter 120

Osprey is known for their high-quality and long-lasting bags , so it’s no surprise that the Osprey Rolling Transporter (120-liter) is one of the best durable duffel bags for travel. This rolling duffel bag is made from sustainable and water-resistant materials, so it’s always up to accompany you on your greatest adventures.

There is a small external pocket on the bag so you can access all of your important items easily. On the interior, you’ll find several mesh pockets to help keep all of your items organized. This large bag features a 120-liter capacity, but if you don’t need that much room, a 90-liter version is available.

This wheeled duffel bag features two large wheels that can easily navigate over any surface. The waterproof zipper is protected by an additional rain flap, keeping all of your belongings safe and dry, even on trips to winter destinations . Like all Osprey products, this rolling duffel bag comes with the brand’s All Mighty Guarantee, which means they’ll repair or replace any damaged parts of your bag for free.

4. YETI Crossroads Duffel Bag, 60L

YETI has quickly become one of the most beloved brands when it comes to outdoor equipment like coolers and tumblers, but did you know the popular brand also offers duffel bags and backpacks ?

The YETI Crossroads Duffel Bag comes in two sizes: 40-liter and 60-liter. Whether traveling to explore the great outdoors of the Pacific Northwest or surfing to Costa Rica , this bag is down to do it all.

The 60-liter Crossroads Duffel Bag can fit many things, including a couple of pairs of shoes and puffer jackets. Two divider panels can keep your items separated, or you can fold them away to create even more room. It comes with a removable padded shoulder strap as well as a side handle and two long handles.

This pack comes in three classic color options and is made from TuffSkin nylon. The YETI Crossroads line also features three sizes of backpacks and two rolling bags, all with compression straps.

See Related: Costa Rica Packing List: What to Pack for Your Trip

Best Camping Duffel Bags

The perfect type of bag for a camping trip has to be, hands-down, the duffel bag. Options range from duffel bags with removable backpack straps to a small waterproof duffel bag that keeps all your belongings safe from the elements.

With varying sizes depending on the length of your trip and the types of activities you’ll do, we’ve come up with several versatile bag options so you can choose the best travel duffel bag for camping your way.

1. Thule Chasm Sport Duffel Bag

The Thule Chasm Sport Duffel Bag makes a statement with its large capacity, rugged, water-resistant fabric, and bright colors. It is one of the most durable duffel bags on the market. The comfortable backpack straps make the Thule Chasm Sport Duffel Bag the best waterproof bag for camping and outdoor adventures .

While it may come at a steep price point, you can often find this duffel backpack on sale on Amazon, and if you’re a Prime member, it’s part of the “try before you buy” program, so you can see if it’s a great fit for you before you invest in it.

Due to its composition of ultra-durable materials and padded backpack straps, it’s super handy to have while camping, especially when some hiking is involved. I’d even venture to say it is the best durable duffel bag on this list. It’s great for exploring the great outdoors while keeping all your gear safe and secure.

While the big sell for the Thule Chasm Sport Duffel is its durability, the interior is nothing to scoff at, either. The main compartment features an oversized opening to fit even the bulkiest jackets easily. The internal mesh pockets keep everything organized.

2. Carhartt Trade Series 2-in-1 Packable Duffel with Utility Pouch

Carhartt has quickly become one of the country’s most popular outdoor clothing companies over the last few years, so it’s no surprise that their rugged duffel bags have also become quite popular. Their best duffel bag for camping has to be the Carhartt Trade Series 2-in-1 Packable Duffel .

This simple and practical duffel bag is perfect for a quick weekend getaway with the family, whether going to your favorite lake or a mountain retreat. It features sturdy handles and removable shoulder straps, but it is not a backpack duffel, so it’s better for camping trips where you don’t need to hike too far to your camping spot.

This sturdy duffel bag is also packable, so you can keep it in another bag and use it for dirty laundry or wet clothes. The bag’s exterior is protected by Carhartt’s Rain Defender technology, making it water-resistant and able to handle tough weather situations.

3. Lyweem Travel Duffel Bag

The large-capacity Lyweem Travel Duffel Bag is an awesome camping duffel bag that comes in so many various colors and two different sizes. The detachable backpack straps also double as normal handles, so you can use this as a duffel backpack or traditional hand-carry bag.

This travel duffel bag features a large open main compartment as well as a separate shoe compartment where you can store your hiking shoes or camp slippers. The shoe compartment also has a vent, so storing wet clothes without them getting smelly or moldy is great.

Unlike most duffel bags, this bag does not feature any shoulder straps, but the handles are nice and long and can also be used as backpack straps. The main compartment has a large internal zippered pocket and an exterior pocket for even more storage.

See Related: How to Pack For a Camping Trip [Step-by-Step Checklist]

4. Osprey Transporter 65 Travel Duffel Bag

If your next camping trip consists of long hiking days surrounded by beautiful scenery, consider the Osprey Transporter 65 Travel Duffel Bag . This large duffel bag is sure to fit all of your gear and clothing while evenly distributing the weight of your pack so that you stay comfortable all day. This is Osprey’s best waterproof duffel bag for camping and longer hiking trips.

The durable, water-resistant coating on the bag’s exterior makes this a great companion for trekking through all sorts of weather conditions . The large main compartment features a 65-liter capacity (hence the name) and a full U-shaped zipper for easy packing.

Traveling with this sturdy duffel bag through rugged terrain is a breeze, as the tough coated fabric makes it difficult to tear or puncture the bag. And if something does happen to the bag, the Osprey All Mighty Guarantee will help with any repairs.

5. Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler 40L Duffel Bag

The Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler is the perfect solution if you bring a lot of gear to your next outdoor adventure. Whether going on a fishing trip with the guys or a family camping trip, this durable duffel bag with removable backpack straps can accompany you anywhere.

The main compartment features detachable mesh dividers so that you can have your belongings more organized or remove them to allow for more space. There’s also a storage pocket where you can fold the whole duffel bag into itself for easy storage.

The external compression straps ensure that your bag can squeeze into the smallest of spaces, and the padded straps can be tucked away so that they won’t be a burden when not in use. While the exterior is made from weather-resistant and abrasion-resistant materials, the bag still has a No Matter What lifetime guarantee to have peace of mind while traveling.

Best Duffel Bags for Road Trips

Road trips are one of the easiest and most amazing ways to take in tons of beautiful scenery as you visit multiple places in one trip. The US is a wonderful place to take a road trip with family or friends. From California’s beautiful national parks to the Great Smoky Mountains and everywhere in between, road trips can be one of the most convenient ways to see so much in a short amount of time.

On a road trip, you’ll want a bag that can fit a lot, but that doesn’t necessarily need a ton of bells and whistles. Instead, you might look for built-in organizational features or a more aesthetic duffle bag. Below are just some of our favorites that you can find online.

1. Briggs & Riley Baseline Weekender Duffel Bag

For a sleek unisex option, check out the Briggs & Riley Baseline Weekender . It comes in three rich colors and includes small luxury details like premium leather padded straps and a discreet ID tag.

Starting with the exterior, the bag is constructed from ballistic nylon fabric and a lockable zipper for the main compartment. There’s a small exterior pocket that can fit a portable charger and other items you may need to access easily. The spacious interior is fully lined and features two elastic pockets for accessories and electronics.

This stunning duffel bag has a capacity of approximately 42 liters and comes with a lifetime guarantee, so the only thing you have to worry about on your road trip is how long until you can get out and explore.

See Related: Denali Packing List: What to Bring to Denali National Park

2. Away F.A.R Duffle 40L

If you’re looking for something sturdy and compact that can fit enough clothes and gear for a long weekend, the AWAY F.A.R. Duffle is a fantastic option. The bag is both abrasion- and water-resistant and is made from responsibly sourced recycled materials, so it’s good for the environment and your stuff.

Away’s F.A.R. or “For All Routes” collection caters specifically to outdoor travel . If you’re moving from place to place, you can count on this heavy-duty bag to be there along with you for all the adventures.

The zipper of the main compartment zips down almost fully, making it super easy and convenient to pack. Internal pockets are minimal, but what it lacks in organizational features, it makes up for in the amount of space you’ll gain.

3. Carhartt 40L Utility Duffel

The Carhartt 40-Liter Utility Duffel is the perfect accessory for dads (and moms) on the go. With its spacious main compartment and multiple exterior pockets, this is the best duffel bag for travel on the open road .

This versatile duffel bag features a 40-liter capacity and is made using Rain Defender water-resistant material. It’s also machine washable, so no worries if you get caught in bad weather!

This duffel bag keeps your belongings organized with ten interior mesh pockets and four exterior pockets. Whether you need extra snacks or clothes for your kids, you’ll always know where to find them.

4. Amazon Basics Large Nylon Duffel Bag

If you’re looking for a duffel bag that is both affordable and reliable, check out the Amazon Basics Large Nylon Duffel Bag . I love pretty much anything Amazon Basics when I need something simple that’ll get the job done.

This durable duffel bag can hold up to 50 pounds and is perfect for quickly packing and throwing into the car. The spacious interior compartment features several zippered pockets, as does the exterior. This bag is super lightweight, weighing just over 1.5 pounds.

The bag can be carried using the adjustable shoulder strap or with the side handles. It is super large to accompany you even on a spring break road trip . It comes in three colors and is lightweight yet durable nylon.

See Related: Amsterdam Packing List: What to Bring on Your Trip

5. Gayuapeia Weekender Bag

Perhaps you’ve been using your trusty duffle bag for a while now and are looking for an upgrade that won’t break the bank. This is where the Gayuapeia Weekender Bag comes in. This stylish yet functional bag provides space for everything you’ll need for a long holiday weekend.

The main compartment is extra roomy and is great for clothing, accessories, and toiletries. The multiple small pockets can ensure that small items like sunglasses and keys won’t get lost in the large bag. The bottom shoe cabinet almost fully zips open and can fit two pairs of sneakers as well as sandals or toiletries.

This lovely bag comes in so many styles and colors. It also makes the perfect gift for the fashionable traveler in your life.

Best Backpacking Duffel Bags

A duffel bag can be a great way to pack out all the gear you need for a few days of backpacking . Many giant packs on your back are bulky and unpleasant to carry by hand when your back starts to hurt, whereas a duffel bag can be worn on your back, strap over your shoulders, or carry by handle.

A good backpacking duffel should be durable, weatherproof, and comfortable – like these best backpacking duffel bags below.

1. The North Face Base Camp Duffel

The North Face is one of the most recognizable brands around the world for outdoor clothing and gear. It’s no surprise that their Base Camp Duffel is a great-quality option that’s rugged and durable enough to handle a weekend or more, off the grid.

In The North Face’s words, this bag is made to handle tough conditions: “whether it’s roughed around in-flight or transported up a mountain via a yak.” It’s constructed with several grab handles; however, you may need to carry it, double stitching on the shoulder straps, and materials like ballistic nylon for durability that they call bombproof. Try not to test that last one, please.

Importantly, the 72-liter interior capacity should provide plenty of room for the camping or trekking gear you need to carry, along with the four compression straps inside to smush it all in. Plus, it’s a great-looking bag!

2. Patagonia Black Hole Duffel 55L

For all things outdoors, Patagonia is another brand that adventurers have relied on for decades – and their Black Hole Duffel Bag is a go-to option for backpackers. This bag comes in 40-liter, 55-liter, 70-liter, and 100-liter size options and serves a wide range of backpacking necessities. We’re going with the 55-liter option here, thanks to its manageable size that still gets the job done.

You can expect great durability and versatility from this pack, and you’ll appreciate its weatherproof lining when the clouds roll in. The padded base also protects whatever is inside from any bumps or drops you know the bag will have to endure during your adventure. It comes in at just over 2.5 pounds, so there’s little extra weight to carry around.

Patagonia proudly prioritizes sustainability and responsibility in all of its products, and the Black Hole Duffel Bag is made with recycled materials and is Fair Trade Certified sewn. There’s nothing like appreciating the world’s beauty while knowing you’ve done something to keep it that way.

See Related: The Complete Backpacking Checklist for Travelers

3. Mouteenoo Travel Duffel Backpack

Like the idea of a quality duffel bag, but don’t want to spend your vacation fund on it? Trust me, I get it! The Mouteenoo Travel Duffel Backpack is a bit more budget-friendly while keeping quality that doesn’t impact your backpacking experience.

Made for multi-day trekking , carrying onto an airplane, or just a simple day at the gym, this bag can serve a variety of purposes. The 45-liter capacity is enough for a short backpacking adventure or a longer one if you can share your load with others. With a top handle and duffel straps that can be worn on your shoulders as a backpack, you can carry it in whichever way is most comfortable for you.

While it doesn’t have a weatherproof polyurethane coating like some high-end bags, the nylon material is still water-resistant. The zipper quality notably reduces the change of jams or failure. Mouteenoo also provides an excellent quality guarantee, with a warranty covering any manufacturing issues that cause the bag to fail to meet its standards.

Best Duffel Bags for Business Travelers

Sometimes, we forget that not every seat on the plane is occupied by someone going on an adventure – many people are headed out on a very different type of trip with unique needs.

Business travelers need the quality and durability we’ve already covered, but they may also emphasize the style and utility of a duffel bag. Luckily, there are quite a few options for the duffel bag-toting business tripper.

1. Briggs & Riley, Black, 22 Inch Garment Duffle Bag

It’s a horrible feeling to get to your destination and realize that your suit or expensive business clothing got damaged along the way or even wrinkled. Briggs & Riley came up with an excellent business travel bag solution: to combine a duffle with a garment bag .

This 22-inch bag is sleek and stylish, fit to serve as an accessory to any jet-setting business traveler . It also has a slip-through rear panel to safely secure the bag to the top of a Briggs & Riley rolling suitcase. Its coolest feature is its transformation into a garment bag perfect for protecting suits and hanging them in the hotel closet.

A detachable shoulder strap provides an extra way to carry the bag hands-free. The ballistic nylon material resists water and damage, and a separate shoe pocket keeps contents clean. This is a great choice of a duffle bag for the average business traveler.

2. Rimowa Never Still Weekender

You’re familiar with Rimowa , the high-end luggage brand famous for their metal, hard-shell suitcases. That’s not all they make, though. The Never Still Weekender is an example of their line of luxury soft bags that looks and feels like the Cadillac of duffel bags.

We’ve seen duffel bags made of polyurethane and ballistic nylon, but Rimowa doesn’t do it like others. The Italian construction consists of durable canvas, full-grain leather, and a removable leather address tag. The result is a silky-soft, chic-looking handbag that’s made for the life of travel.

You can fit a 13-inch laptop inside with whatever else you may need, and a detachable shoulder strap makes it possible to carry this bag hands-free. Like other Rimowa bags, be prepared to pay for all of this luxury – this is not a budget bag.

See Related: The Ultimate Packing Checklist for Traveling to London

3. Soaeon Canvas Travel Duffle Bag

Did the price tag of that last one scare you? Don’t worry – there are plenty of other duffle bags perfect for business travelers that don’t require the salary of a CEO, like the Soaeon Canvas Travel Duffle Bag .

This bag is most definitely a duffle but functions a lot like a hard-shell suitcase. It opens clamshell-style, with two zippered compartments on either side. This makes it very fillable with the capacity to carry clothes for nearly a week or more.

On the outside, waterproof fabric and leather handles keep the bag durable and easy to carry, along with the shoulder strap. Exterior pockets provide more storage space and easier access to essentials. This bag is very budget-friendly for business travelers who want quality at a fair price.

Best Duffel Bags for Kids

Even littles need a reliable bag to accompany them on their amazing family adventures. When picking bags for kids, you’ll want to choose something durable yet affordable.

Kids usually change their preferences regarding characters or interests as they get older, so sticking with a certain favorite color or print instead could ensure they use the bag for longer.

1. PUMA Kids’ Evercat Transformation Duffel

This PUMA Kids’ duffel bag is super compact and versatile. It can double as a sports gear bag and a travel duffel bag. It comes at a super affordable price and has several fun colors and prints.

The bag is pretty simple. It comes with a large main compartment and an exterior mesh pocket. The mesh pocket isn’t large enough for a water bottle, but it can hold some snacks or small accessories .

It features a side handle, two long padded handles, and a crossbody strap, making it comfortable for anyone. Depending on your child’s age, it can hold enough clothes for a long weekend or a week-long trip.

2. Rugici Overnight Bag

The adorable Rugici Overnight Bag is fantastic for pre-teens and teenagers. This bag is slightly larger than the previous bag and includes some awesome features that you and your teen will appreciate.

First of all, its simple design ensures that packing will be quick and straightforward. A separate shoe component keeps them separate from any clean clothes. The wet/dry compartments in the interior can easily keep clean and dirty clothes separated, especially if your family is heading to a lake or down to the beach.

The waterproof fabric and ventilation vents ensure that everything in the bag will stay dry and odor-free. Side and interior zipper pockets can keep things like electronics, books, and school supplies organized and separate from other belongings.

See Related: Norway Cruise Packing List: What to Pack (Including PDF)

3. Choco Mocha Kids Duffle Bag

If you’re going out of town for a weekend, maybe a short stint at Disneyland , or a few days at your favorite lakeside town, this Choco Mocha Kids Duffle Bag will make the perfect travel companion for your kids.

This bag has multiple spacious compartments, including a fantastic shoe compartment. Internal pockets allow you to separate school supplies and books from everything else. The soft sides allow the bag to accommodate many clothes, so you can pack any backups and extras if necessary.

Kids will love traveling with this adorable bag with fun prints like sharks, fire trucks, dinosaurs, and more. Seeing you get this bag out and ready to pack will excite them for the trip before it even begins!

Is it “duffel bag” or “duffle bag”?

Actually, both spellings are correct! In British English and countries that use it (namely all of them apart from the U.S.), you’ll see “duffle” used more often. In American English, “duffel” is more common. Both are acceptable, and different brands may use different spellings.

Where does the name “duffle” or “duffel” come from?

No one knows for certain, but it likely came from the Belgian town of Duffel, historically known for its thick, durable Duffel cloth.

What is a good size duffle bag for travel?

That depends on your trip, what you need, and how you travel. If you’re flying low-cost and need a duffel bag that fits under the seat in front of you, you should probably stay around the 30-liter capacity and not more than 16 or 18 inches long.

A full-size carry-on duffel should be around 40 liters and a maximum of 22-24 inches long. If you’re not concerned with carry-on limitations and need space, you can find very large duffel bags in the 100-liter range.

Which brand is best for duffel bags?

There are a ton of great duffel bag brands and a ton of very cheaply made and bad-quality competitors. Our trusted favorites come from Away Luggage, Patagonia, The North Face, and Briggs & Riley. Their products serve various purposes, and the quality won’t disappoint you.

Related Resources

• Best Camping Spots in the World
• Best Cancel Anytime Travel Insurance
• Budget-Friendly Family Vacations
• The Ultimate Vacation Packing List (+ Printable PDF)

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• Duffel Bags
• Duffel Bags: The Buying Guide

Best Duffel Bags in 2024 | Tested by Survivalists & Travelers

These duffel bags include only products tested in the field by hand-picked individuals with profiles that demand good outdoor apparel.

To learn more about how these bags were tested, click here or scroll down below.

A duffel bag, often alternatively spelled as “duffle bag,” stands out as a versatile accessory for various needs. We have chosen duffels with a waterproof design, backpack-style products, models equipped with durable wheels for smooth transport, or options abundant in compartments, pockets, and lash points for organized storage.

Our writers and editors have been using duffels for all the activities we practice and test for, making our experience one based on longer evidence and observation. Take note of the features and the cost of this curated list of options. We’ve actually tested and used all of them. Read about how we tested them below.

Prices are also compared down below, too.

The Quick 6 of the Best Duffel Bags in 2024

Backcountry.com

• The North Face Base Camp

Where to buy:

Where to buy the north face base camp:.

The North Face Base Camp Duffel is available in sizes ranging from a minimal 31L to a colossal 150L. The 31L is good for both rugged adventures or trips to the gym. The 50L is accepted as a carry-on by most airlines and from there, the larger sizes are great for just about anything you can throw them at.

I’ve got a lot of trust in these bags for some of the most demanding voyages sailing in open vessels and camping in rough terrain. The Base Camp design is also useful for organization–if you have packing cubes.

Its strength lies not in the availability of pockets, but rather in the simplicity. Two side pockets work for smaller items, but there’s no shoe compartment.

The main compartment is easily accessible and flexible, so you can pack your duffel to the brim.

• Best Suited For: Hiking, Day Trips, Outdoor activities, Travel
• Material: 1000-denier phthalate-free thermoplastic elastomer fabric laminate/840-denier ballistic nylon
• Volume: 95L
• Dimensions: 15.75 x 27.56 x 15.75 inches
• Weight: 4.1 pounds

Things we like:

Things we don't like:.

Backcountry

Gregory Alpaca Backpack Duffel

Where to buy Gregory Alpaca Backpack Duffel:

These Gregory Alpaca duffels are made with the same 900D Polyester Ripstop with TPU weather-resistant coating as the Patagonia Black Hole duffels. Although initially seemingly similar, these Gregory Alpacas have a few tricks up their sleeves .

One of these great features is an external pocket that keeps dirty shoes and laundry separate from the main compartment.

The Gregory Alpaca is available in 40L, 60L, 80L, and 100L for overnight trips or something that demands more gear. Their weather and abrasion-resistant padded bottom and reinforced grab handles make them a reliable choice for any urban outing or rugged expedition .

• Sizes/Volumes: 40L, 60L, 80L, 100L
• Dimensions: 22.83” x 13.39” x 11.42” | 12.76” x 27.52” x 15” | 28.74” x 28.35” x 12.99” | 31” x 17.5” x 14.5”
• Colors: Obsidian Black, Fir Green, Red Rock, Slate Blue, Mirage Tan
• Weight: 2.65lbs, 3.38lbs, 3.54lbs, 3.92lbs
• Material: 40% Recycled 900D Polyester Ripstop with TPU Weather resistant coating, 40% Post-consumer Recycled 135D Polyester with PFC-Free DWR, EVA Foam

Stahlsac Abyss Duffel Bag

Where to buy Stahlsac Abyss Duffel Bag:

If you’re on the hunt for a sturdy duffel bag that can protect your gear from Mother Nature’s worst, Stahlsac Abyss duffel bags can be quite compelling.

Backpack straps and a durable bottom with a squarish main compartment come in handy with larger gear items. But that will appeal to other travellers too.

Designed with divers in mind, this duffel bag is made with weatherproof ultra-durable TPU nylon that’ll protect your gear from all the elements and any inevitable boating mishaps.

Coming in a cabin-sized convenient 50L, a medium 75L, and a robust 100L, these Stahlsac Abyss duffel bags seem like they can endure any storm that comes their way.

• Sizes: 50L, 75L and 100L
• Dimensions: 50L: 22.25”x14”x10” / 56.5x35.5x25.5cm
• (L x W x H): 75L: 28”x14”x12” / 71x35.5x30.5cm
• 100L: 33.25”x15.75”x13.75” / 84.5x40x35cm
• Color : Grey
• Weight: 50L: 2.4lbs / 1.1kg
• 75L: 2.9lbs / 1.3kg
• 100L: 3.4lbs / 1.5kg
• Material: Weatherproof & strong double-TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) laminated
• nylon material and RF-welded seams.

STUBBLE & CO.

Stubble & Co The Weekender

Where to buy Stubble & Co The Weekender:

Stubble & Co has been making some interesting bags defined by function and form. The Weekender is the company’s premium travel bag designed to accommodate overnight getaways and weekend-long business trips. Its dimensions make it a carry-on that will fit in the overhead compartment of a plane and its design will appeal to travelers that might want something a little more elegant.

This “Designed in London” duffel will immediately appeal to those traveling with a trolley bag. It has both a laptop sleeve and a trolley sleeve for a complete, carry-on-only setup.

But after getting to know this bag, it seems designed for something a little more too.

Its water-resistant canvas material with a hardened body extends the bag’s area of use as far as glamping. Depending on the gym or country club, it will also do well as a sports bag too.

There are some nice features on this 40-liter weekender bag–typical of the British company’s small, but adroit lineup of bags.

After using this bag for camping, sailing and a weekend trip to the lake, our review measures the success of this travel bags’ intention against our expectations and actual experience.

• Material: Water-repelling British Millerain Tekwax canvas, full-grain leather, 100% cotton lining
• Packed Dimensions: W 55 (22) x H 30 (12) x D 25 (10) cm (in)
• Weight: 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs.)
• Capacity: 40L
• Style: Weekender
• Size: Cabin-sized
• Colors: Black, Olive, Pirate, Navy

Peak Design

Peak Design 65L Travel Duffel

Where to buy Peak Design 65L Travel Duffel:

Peak Design has another product that will excite and please organization-obsessed travelers.

The Travel Duffel has a lot of pockets, specialized pockets for items like SD memory cards, power banks and notebooks. It took our two testers some time before they optimized their packing approach, but PD’s bags are similar to Apple products in that they are great when used the way they were designed.

Additionally, Peak Design packing cubes really take advantage of this bags organization strengths, but add another cost/benefit analysis that might scare casual travelers away.

As part of our duffel bag review guide, this bag passed our gauntlet of tests. So, the Peak Design Travel Duffel is also a capable bag in the face of abuse and rain. It’s just not ideal for any kind of hike.

• Materials: 600D Nylon Canvas Shell with DWR Coating, 900D Nylon Base, #10 UltraZips, Hypalon Pulls
• Capacity: 65 Liters
• Dimension: 13.4” x 29.9” x 12.6”
• Weight: 2.9 lbs.

Rains Texel Duffel Bag

Where to buy Rains Texel Duffel Bag:

The waterproof, backpack capable Rains Texel Duffel Bag is as stylish as it is versatile. While the smaller 34L works really well as a gym bag for the yoga studio, the larger option makes for a great weekender, travel duffle. It can stay upright almost anywhere, making it easy to grab and carry with its multiple handles and design .   

It features a reinforced bottom with Rains’ signature soft DWR PU material on the upper. Rains has done a good job of improving the sustainability profile of their production and sourcing too.

The Texel’s main compartment is large and it has several mesh pockets inside and out. It is a good multi-purpose solution at a lower price than one might expect from this company. Not much for organization, but it hits home on style and water protection.

• Material: 100% polyester with polyurethane coating
• Capacity: 56 liters / 14.8 gallons
• Dimensions: H34 x W62 x D34cm / H13.4 x W24.4 x D13.4 inches
• Weight: 1260 gr / 2.77 pounds
• Waterproof rating: W3 – Waterproof protection from light rain

Jack Wolfskin

Jack Wolfskin 65L Expedition Trunk

Where to buy Jack Wolfskin 65L Expedition Trunk:

We in continental America live in a bit of a vacuum of influence when it comes to our outdoor equipment. Occasionally, I’ll have the chance to take a look at gear from European manufacturers- in this case it’s Jack Wolfskin’s 65L Expedition Trunk, a sensibly priced alternative to “adventure duffles” employed by travelers and explorers alike.

This heavy-hitting German retailer has one foot in the outdoor sporting world and another in urban “athleisure” wear. A closer look at the trunk reveals it’s firmly rooted in this dichotomy- taking aim somewhere between an overbuilt gear bag and a versatile valise. For a weekend at the cabin or living out of it for weeks at a time, the duffle certainly merits further investigation.

• Stowable padded shoulder straps
• Large and lockable D-zip
• Reinforced webbing carrying handles
• External gear loops
• 3 Meshed internal compartments
• Water-resistant external pocket
• 1680D fabric construction

Osprey Transporter 65L

Where to buy Osprey Transporter 65L:

The Osprey Transporter duffel doesn’t have too many features that separate it from other options. The best features of this pack are easily the u-zip opening and the solid quality of the zippers and shoulder straps.

I tested the 65-liter variant on a 14-day sailing and camping voyage, plus other smaller weekend trips. It proved to be a robust bag that protects against some considerable abuse (read review) as well as rain.

It’s a moderately expensive bag that returns substantial returns in experience measured by potential days of use and protection.

• Material: 840D Nylon TPU Double Coated
• Volume: 65L
• Dimensions: 23.6 X 14.2 X 12.6 inches
• Weight: 3.1 pounds

Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler 60

Where to buy Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler 60:

A solid and practical duffel backpack is the Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler.

Tested against conditions that get it dirty, sat on and tossed about, the 60 liter Cargo Hauler we used several times did well. With a robust construction using Bi-Tech™ Armor Lite fabric, this duffel is water-resistant and can handle frequent travel.

The bag features versatile carrying options, including padded backpack straps, top handles, and side grab handles for easy maneuverability.

• Best Suited For: Hiking, Day Trips, Camping, Weekend trips
• Material: 600D TPU, 1000D Helix™ Poly Twill
• Volume: 60L
• Dimensions: 26.75 x 10.25 x 13.5 inches
• Weight: 2.3 pounds

Stubble & Co

Stubble & Co. The Kit Bag Duffel

Where to buy Stubble & Co. The Kit Bag Duffel:

This bag stays true to the Stubble & Co signature phrase ‘go anywhere, do everything.’

The Kit by Stubble & Co comes at 38L and is not a typical gym bag .

Its versatile hybrid character is its top-selling point. It can be carried as a backpack and by removing the shoulder straps, you are left with a sleek, stylish duffel for a weekend escape or a carry-on , all in one.

For an above-average but more than reasonable price, you get multiple pockets, a padded laptop sleeve and a separate shoe compartment protected by Stubble’s durable and sustainable fabrics.

• Material: Recycled 200D & 900D PET & TPU fabrics, water-resistant zips, vegan-friendly
• Capacity: 10 gallons / 38L
• Dimensions: 21.26 x 8.66 x 13.77 inches / 54 x 22 x 35 cm
• Weight: 3.3 lbs / 1.5 kg
• Waterproof rating: Waterproof, suitable for light rain

Related Reviews

Read full review

Why Trust This Guide

The primary reviewer of this guide, yours truly, has extensive experience with duffel bags. I used to spell it “duffle” while I was canoe tripping and sailing. Not until I started systematically testing bags 5 years ago, did I understand what Dernier means and how to value some of the more subtle features of these bags.

As is revealed in the image below, I sail two weeks on an open 72-foot viking ship with 30-40 others, each bringing along one or more duffle bags. During these 14 days, I prod and pry at their bags and at the owners, peppering them with questions about their experience.

Lately, I’ve found it helpful for this guide to lend them duffel bags and enlist their views. The authority of this guide is, therefore, based on a community of research and plenty of data. Most of them are survivalists.

Building on the foundation of testing at sea (saltwater) and camping on land, the duffels have been tested for water protection and features quantitatively and qualitatively respectively.

To measure water protection, the bags were placed outside in the rain for 30 minutes and measured for how much water seeped in.

Continuing some of our stress-testing and probing for any weak points in construction, we took turns with different packs in the shower, pointing the water at the closed zippers to see how well those seams protected the contents from splashes or rain.

This simulates a bag that’s been put on its side, something that I’ve experienced a lot during camping and sailing trips.

Additional testing for any weakness in water protection at the seams and zippers

Choosing the Right Size Duffel for the Price

Duffel bags come in various sizes, from compact 30L models ideal for gym use to spacious 100L options perfect for extended trips.

Popular choices include the 71L North Face Base Camp and the 60L Gregory Alpaca. Consider your needs and budget, as prices vary from stylish options like the Rains Texel at $170 to premium models like the Peak Design 65L at $169.

Evaluate your gear requirements to select the best duffel bag that offers optimal capacity and value for your investment.

What is a Duffel Bag

Duffel bags were originally designed to give you the possibility to carry your gym gear and travel-related items in one safe and secure place. They were also used utilized for storing the same pieces in a dust-free and moisture-free place. As more and more brands started releasing their versions of duffel bags, their purpose became more diverse than ever.

Rock-climbing amateurs along with avid world travelers and extreme sports fanatics started purchasing duffel packs that would meet their particular needs. Nowadays they are the go-to accessory that every other person has in their wardrobe regardless of the leisure activity he or she dives in every now and again. This means that you will certainly find the right model of the duffel bag from the 20 items we reviewed in this guide.

Take into consideration factors like purpose, size, features, and price, and you will be able to narrow down your list to just one model that fits your requirements the best.

Backpack Duffel Designs

Backpack duffel designs combine the convenience of a backpack with the spaciousness of a duffel bag, making them a versatile choice for travelers and adventurers. These hybrid bags are designed to offer the best of both worlds, with features that cater to a variety of needs.

One of the primary advantages of backpack duffels is their versatility. They can be carried on the back, allowing for hands-free movement, or by their handles, like a traditional duffel. This makes them ideal for situations where you need to switch between carrying styles, such as navigating through airports or hiking to a campsite.

Dernier Explained

The numbers standing next to the word ‘Denier’ are commonly used to showcase the durability of the item from the material’s point of view. Always expressed by a number with a “D” at the end. The higher the number is, the more long-lasting the duffel bag (in our case) is.

It is essential to remember that deniers of the same value may still vary in quality depending on the type of used fabric. But that is a good measure to look out for when choosing one bag from the big crowd of bags. Don’t be alarmed by the two values the denier some manufacturers can mention for some particular bags. Usually, the higher one refers to the bottom part of the bag’s fabric, whereas the lower one refers to the top part of the bag’s fabric.

More Fun Outside

Get more Outdoor fun in this series:  Duffel Bags ,  Dry Bags ,  Hiking Backpacks ,  Waterproof Backpacks , Waterproof Watches,  Waterproof Cameras ,  Waterproof Jacket ,  Windbreaker Jackets ,  Life Jackets ,  Selfie Sticks  & much more.

Frequently asked questions

Duffel bags have become the ‘go-to’ for many travelers, hikers, and sports enthusiasts over the last few decades – they are comfortable to carry, weigh less than  Hiking Bags , and are affordable.

This prompted us to create a  duffel bag guide  that comprises the best items available on the market.

Check out our top choices:

• Patagonia Black Hole 55L
• Samsonite Luggage Andante Wheeled Rolling Duffel Bag
• Osprey Transporter 65 Bag
• Kenneth Cole Reaction Colombian Leather Duffel
• The North Face Rolling Thunder 22”
• NIKE Brasilia Training Duffel
• Thule Chasm 70L Duffel

Read full reviews of each duffel bag on DIVEIN.COM by clicking the links above.

While there are dozens of duffel bags out there, the standard size of the duffel that suits most people’s needs is 22 x 14 x 9 inches.

The Marmot Long Hauler Duffel Bag  is 25 x 10.5 x 10.5 inches. The Osprey Transporter is 24 x 14 x 13 inches.  The North Face Rolling Thunder  is 22 x 14 x 8.5 inches

Surely, there are rolling duffels that are bigger than that and athletic duffels that tend to be smaller, so rest assured you will find the bag of the dimensions that will meet your specific criteria. Check out our guide for Duffel Bags in all Sizes and shapes .

Unless you are bringing with you multiple pieces of bulky equipment, duffel bags are almost always the better alternative to a suitcase .

Duffel bags don’t weigh a lot, they are quick to pack and easy to transport. It is basically the most practical type of bag you could ever invest in.

Thankfully, there are countless duffel bags options on the market, which means you can find the one that will meet the onboard requirements.

Before purchasing a duffel bag for traveling purposes, make sure to check the airlines’ requirements so that you are not stuck with a bag that is too large to pass as a carry-on.

The beauty of duffel bags hides in the fact that a vast majority of them can be worn in several different ways. One of them, you guessed it, is on your back.

Click on these duffel backpacks we found to be the best in this category:

• YETI Panga 75
• Arc’teryx Carrier Duffel 55L Bag
• Timbuk2 Impulse Travel Backpack
• Marmot Long Hauler Duffel Backpack

If the Duffle Backpack doesn’t fit your needs, you can check out the  Hiking Backpacks ,  Travel Backpacks  or  Waterproof Backpacks .

If you already have a Duffel Backpack or you just bought one, leave a comment in the comment section below and share your experience with it.

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Hi, I have bought the NIKE Brasilia Training Duffel bag and it had good stitching, material quality but without waterproof

Yes, but we’ve not tested their line of duffel bags.

Ever heard of Bad Bags???

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Jessie Kidden Waterproof

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Gallery of duffel bags: the buying guide review.

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A view of how rigid the Kit Bag is when carried like a straight duffel.

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9 Best Duffel Bags for Men – Stylish, Quality Gear for 2024

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Larger than a backpack but more convenient than rolling luggage, the best duffel bags for men is one of the most practical pieces of gear a guy can own. Take it to the gym, on weekend getaways, or full-blown jaunts across the world. Duffels are dependable, highly versatile, and amongst the best bag options out there.

But with so many brands and models to choose from, the search for men’s duffel bags can quickly become daunting. To help you see through all the noise, I’ve compiled the eight best choices for the modern man. Ranging from duffel-backpack hybrids to sleek leather options, the bags on this list will ensure you get where you’re going in style.

As a full-time traveler, I’m keenly aware of what makes for the best duffel bags, and based on my rigorous testing, you’ll find the top choices below.

Key Takeaways

With endless options out there (believe me, there was no shortage of research to be done), I’ll keep it real simple for ya. The best duffel bag for men is the 40-liter Patagonia Black Hole , which has ample room for a week-long trip, a weatherproof exterior, and ultra-comfortable carry options. If you’d prefer a leather investment piece, opt for the luxury long weekend packer from Tom Beckbe , while guys on a budget can’t go wrong with the Adidas Defender 4 Medium Duffel Bag .

Keep reading to discover more outstanding options when it comes to men’s duffel bags.

• Buying Considerations

Why You Should Trust Us

Final verdict, best overall: patagonia black hole duffel.

Why It’s Great: In terms of the best duffel bag, it’s impossible to beat the Patagonia Black Hole line. After testing dozens of duffel bags myself, I’ve found that this Patagonia model outperforms North Face’s Base Camp line and other similar alternatives in almost every area (ease of carry, comfort, packability, and beyond). I can’t recommend it enough.

How to Use It: This duffel bag is a backpack hybrid, meaning there are detachable straps to throw over your shoulder, rather than using the dual grab carry handles. One of my favorite features of this bag is how easy it is to convert it from a rucksack to a duffel. Simply clip the backpack straps in, and you’re ready to go. When you want to lug it like a duffel, there’s a designated space to tuck the backpack straps into so they stay out of your way.

Who is This For? This duffel bag is for the man on the move. Thanks to the backpack straps, it’s easy to handle a heavy load, which is just as well, considering this bag lives up to its Black Hole name. Ideal for travel (the 40-liter version fits clothes for up to a week), any man on the go will benefit from this bag.

Flaws But Not Dealbreakers: The main downside of this bag is that there’s no crossbody strap and you’ve got limited space to organize. It’s also worth noting that Patagonia recently released a new matte rendition of their most popular bags, including the Black Hole line. While the fabric is more eco-friendly and still water-resistant, many Patagonia fans (including myself) prefer the shinier material, which is why the older version of the duffel is included on the list.

Dimensions: 21W x 13.7H x 10.6D inches | Capacity: 40 liters | Material: Recycled polyester with TPU-film laminate | Colors Available: 1

Best Luxury: Luca Faloni Leather Weekender Duffel Bag

Why It’s Great: There are nice duffel bags, and then there’s the Luca Faloni Weekender. This is the best duffel bag for men seeking a sleek addition to their travel collection, featuring full-grain leather, a handmade Italian construction, and the perfect size for an airplane carry-on.

How to Use It: Haul this bag with either the dual grab handles or the (detachable) padded crossbody strap. To make it more compact, you can even cinch down the sides. There are a few pockets to take advantage of, the most useful being the slip pocket on the bag’s exterior, ideal for quick access to a passport or notebook.

Who is This For? This duffel bag is for the modern gentleman seeking a sleek tote all for travel, whether for business or pleasure. It’s also a wonderful choice for guys looking to invest in a luxurious piece that will last for years to come.

Flaws But Not Dealbreakers: Nearly a grand for a duffel bag isn’t for the faint of heart, but genuine luxury always comes with a price tag to match. Think of it as the purchase that will serve you for an entire lifetime.

Dimensions: 20.5 x 11 x 9.5 inches | Capacity: 35 liters | Material: Full grain leather | Colors Available: 3

Best Black Leather: Bennett Winch Leather Weekender

Why It’s Great: There’s something so timeless about a leather weekender, and this men’s duffel bag hits every single sweet spot. Bennett Winch specializes in leather goods, and their Leather Weekender constitutes a pretty perfect duffel bag. Aside from the classic main compartment, this duffel has several noteworthy aspects to it. Namely: a designated laptop compartment, a concealed external pocket for your passport or phone, waterproof side pocket and an internal zipped pocket. There’s also a zippered shoe compartment that can be used for toiletries or dirty laundry. In terms of organization, this bag leaves no stone unturned.

How to Use It: Carry this men’s duffel bag with either the top handles or the crossbody shoulder strap. Another standout element of this bag is its stability – the shoulder strap is made of military grade cotton making sure you can securely carry your bag while carrying with comfort.

Who is This For? This duffel bag is for the ultra-organized gentleman who understands investing in quality leather goods.

Flaws But Not Dealbreakers: Aside from the higher price tag, it’s hard to find flaws in such a perfect piece of gear.

Dimensions: 21.6 x 14.1 x 9.8 inches | Capacity: 42 liters | Material: Full grain leather | Colors Available: 2

Best Everyday: Harber London Overnight Bag

Why It’s Great: For a classy look, this is the best duffel bag, made from a stunning recycled plastic fabric with leather and silver accents. It’s sleek and sophisticated, an apt choice for daily use or weekend trips. I love that it’s an airline carry-on size but still manages to fit it all, with an exceptionally spacious interior and multiple pockets for organization.

How to Use It: There’s an adjustable crossbody strap and this bag is comfortable to carry with its leather handles that can easily be worn over a shoulder. The main compartment can fit a few days of clothes and a pair of shoes, while the interior storage pockets are ideal for smaller items like a passport or little electronics.

Who is This For? This duffel is for the man who wants to look good on the go. The olive fabric paired with the soft leather detailing is a chic option – a far cry from the polyurethane-coated duffels or traditional sporty gym bags.  

Flaws But Not Dealbreakers: The price of this bag is on the higher end, but it’s definitely an investment piece. It can easily be used as a work bag or reserved for more special travel occasions.

Dimensions: 19.68 x 11.81 x 11.02 inches | Capacity: 42 liters | Material: Recycled Plastic Fabric | Colors Available: 4

Best Budget: Adidas Defender 4 Medium Duffel Bag

Why It’s Great: It’s hard not to imagine an Adidas gym tote when thinking of the best duffel bag for men. This style has been the gold standard since the 70s, making it a timeless classic in the duffel bag world. Regardless of whether you use it for a casual spin around town or a longer trip, this is the best men’s duffel bag if you’re on a budget and don’t need anything flashy.

How to Use It: Load up the roomy interior with clothes or workout gear, and use the separate side compartment for a pair of shoes or dirty laundry. This duffel makes a great travel bag thanks to the few external pockets and its ease of carry – use the dual grab handles on the top or swing it over your shoulder like a crossbody bag .

Who is This For? For the practical man, this large duffel bag is a more casual option than others on this list but as trusty as ever. It can do it all, making it a versatile and affordable choice.

Flaws But Not Dealbreakers: I definitely wouldn’t use this duffel bag for business travel since it has a much more informal look. The material is also a bit shoddy compared to higher-end options. However, it’s a top option for sports or laid-back use.

Dimensions: 24.75 x 12 x 13 inches | Capacity: ~63 liters | Material: Polyester | Colors Available: 20

Best on Amazon: Carhartt Heavy Haul Utility Duffel Bag

Why It’s Great: If you’re looking for a more utility-focused men’s duffel bag, Carhartt can do no wrong. This duffel is on the tactical side, packed with pockets galore and heavily padded straps. The separate side compartment is stellar for shoes, toiletries, or laundry, while the detachable backpack straps make it a breeze to carry, even over long distances.

How to Use It: Fill the cavernous interior with clothes or gear, and then use the side pockets for smaller items or quick access. You can tote the bag with the carry handles or, more easily, with the padded backpack straps, which are complete with a sternum belt to balance heavier loads. The backpack straps stow away into their own compartment when not in use to give easy access to the main compartment of the duffel.

Who is This For? This is the best duffel bag for men seeking an ultra-practical option with plenty of pockets. Made from durable, water-resistant canvas nylon with a range of organizational features, this bag doesn’t leave you wanting for much.

Flaws But Not Dealbreakers: Due to the canvas construction and backpack straps, this duffel is on the heavier side. If you want a lighter option, the Carhartt Trade Series Packable Duffel is nearly as durable but a fraction of the weight, making it a pared-back alternative. It also packs into itself, handy for taking on the go or storing when not in use.

Dimensions: 27 x 14 x 11.5 inches | Capacity: 55 liters | Material: 700D nylon canvas | Colors Available: 3

Best Backpack: Cotopaxi Allpa Duffel Bag

Why It’s Great: In recent years, Cotopaxi has emerged as a front-runner in the world of travel bags for men. I’ve seen them all over the world, carried by a diverse range of individuals who are seeking practical luggage with a ton of organization. While the Cotopaxi Travel Pack is the brand’s best-seller (the signature multi-colored backpack), the Allpa Duffel Bag is a prime choice. It’s a backpack duffel hybrid, giving a range of carry options and easy access to the external compartments.

How to Use It: The biggest draw to this men’s duffel bag, and Cotopaxi bags in general, is the amount of organization. This bag is decked out with pockets galore, with a designated space for every piece of clothing and gear. Load the main compartment with your outfits, and use the dual accessory pockets for tech or essentials. Finally, separate your dirty clothing with the laundry compartment on the bottom of the bag. When you want to carry the duffel as a backpack, the top straps tuck into the side pockets in seconds to keep out of your way.

Who is This For? This bag is for the guy who isn’t sure if he wants a duffel or a backpack. It offers both carry options as well as plenty of space for a week-long trip.

Flaws But Not Dealbreakers: The only aspect I dislike about this bag is how the backpack straps attach. Rather than a clip, you need to thread the straps through the buckle in order to secure them to the bag. It takes a couple of minutes, rather than the mere seconds it takes to attach the Patagonia backpack straps to the duffel using the clip mechanism.

Dimensions: 23 x 13 x 12 inches | Capacity: 50 liters | Material: TPU coated 1000D polyester | Colors Available: 6

Best Leather: Tom Beckbe Leather Weekender Duffel Bag

Why It’s Great: The Tom Beckbe Leather Weekender Duffel Bag is crafted from high-quality full-grain American leather, promising durability and a sophisticated aesthetic. Its standout feature, the clamshell opening, allows easy access to your belongings, making packing and unpacking a breeze, especially if you’re prone to chronic overpacking (we’ve all been there). The bag includes a fully lined interior with two zippered pockets for organization. Over time, your leather bag will develop a unique (only to you) patina, enhancing its rugged charm. Additionally, solid brass hardware and antique brass zippers add to its premium feel, while the roped carry handle ensures comfort during travel.

Who This Is For: This weekender is ideal for the style-conscious traveler who values both form and function. Perfect for short business trips or weekend getaways, it offers ample space without being bulky. The leather will soften with use, becoming more pliable and comfortable (and may give you enough room to jam another shirt in there one day). It suits those who appreciate a bag that not only serves its purpose but also enhances their travel style with a touch of luxury.

Flaws But Not Dealbreakers: The full-grain leather construction makes the bag heavier than fabric alternatives, which might be a drawback for some. Its premium materials and craftsmanship come at a higher price point, making it a significant investment. Additionally, maintaining the leather’s appearance requires regular cleaning and conditioning. However, for those who prioritize quality and style, these minor issues are outweighed by the bag’s numerous benefits.

Material:  American origin full-grain leather  | Dimensions:  20?(L) x 11?(W) x 11.5?(H)  |   Colors Available:  1  |   Hardware Color : Brass

Best Waterproof: Rains Hilo Weekend Duffel Bag

Why It’s Great: While Rains backpacks have taken city streets by storm, the brand’s duffel bags are an equally wonderful waterproof solution for travel or transporting gear. Sleek and simple, the Hilo Weekend Duffel comes in ten colors and three sizes, with a roomy main compartment and a waterproof finish. It’s also a much lower price point than most of the best duffel bags for men, making it a practical option if you don’t want to break the bank.

How to Use It: Pack this 37-liter duffel with enough clothes to last five days. If you need more room, opt for the Large Hilo Weekender , which offers an additional 10 liters of space. Regardless of the size you choose, the bag can be made compact by cinching down the sides and can be carried using the top grab handles or the crossbody shoulder strap.

Who is This For? This men’s duffel is for guys seeking a simple bag without any bells or whistles that still gets the job done.

Flaws But Not Dealbreakers: The only downside of this bag is there are no pockets for smaller items like keys, headphones, or a wallet.

Dimensions: 20.5 x 10.6 x 10.2 inches | Capacity: 37 liters | Material: Polyester with polyurethane coating | Colors Available: 10

Buying Considerations for the Best Duffel Bags for Men

When it comes to choosing the best duffel bag, size is the primary consideration, as this determines how much it will fit. In my experience, the sweet spot for a duffel bag for men is between 35 and 50 liters. A duffel smaller than 35 liters becomes close to the size of a standard backpack, while duffels larger than 50 liters can be a bit cumbersome.

Opt for a duffel bag with a capacity of 30 to 40 liters for a long weekend and a 45 to 55-liter duffel for a trip that lasts a week or two. Ultimately, size boils down to intended use, so if you’re looking for a weekender, you can stick to the smaller size, while a larger size can take the place of carry-on luggage for the plane.

Material is also an important consideration, as it largely contributes to the look and feel of the bag. The material also dictates the durability of a men’s duffel bag, so it’s worth weighing the options carefully.

Broadly speaking, leather duffel bags are a sound choice because they’re designed to last for years to come and have an unbeatable sleek look to them. Leather duffels are certainly an investment, given their steep price, but are the best material for business travel or for a duffel you plan on keeping for the rest of your life.

On the other hand, there are lots of great duffels made from polyester with a waterproof coating, as seen in the Patagonia, Cotopaxi, and Rains duffel bags. The benefit to this material is it’s often recycled, less expensive, and treated to be weather resistant, which means the duffels can withstand a wide range of conditions and are perfect for more versatile or adventurous travel.

Carry Options

Finally, carefully consider the carry options of the best duffel bag because this is the main dictator of comfort. The last thing you want is to choose a duffel bag that’s impossible to carry or with straps that cut into your shoulder.

At the bare minimum, a duffel will have top grab handles to lift the bag by. But the best duffel bag will also include additional carry options like a detachable crossbody strap or backpack straps to allow you to transport it hands-free.

While the crossbody strap is the most common carry option for men’s duffels, backpack straps tend to be the most practical, especially if you’re dealing with a heavier bag. This option still gives you the versatility of a duffel but with the comfort of a backpack.

As a full time traveler and an absolute bag fiend, duffel bags are my luggage preference, and I own more than 20, spanning dozens of luggage brands and heaps of different models. I have either tested out or owned each bag on this list (my mainstays are the Patagonia Black Hole and the Rains Hilo Duffel ) and created this article to share my expert knowledge with any man seeking a new duffel bag. Whether you’re crossing the city or several continents, the duffel bags on this list are dependable options to get you where you need to go in comfort and style.

While there are thousands of contenders for the best duffel bag for men, the true winner is the Patagonia Black Hole . Weatherproof and made from rugged recycled materials, this bag lives up to its name and can fit everything you need for a trip and then some. Topped off with padded backpack straps, this duffel is reliably comfortable to carry. If you’d prefer to splurge on a leather investment piece, the Luca Faloni Weekender Duffel Bag is second to none.

Men definitely use duffel bags since they’re one of the most versatile and convenient types of bags . Duffel bags are super handy for the gym, commuting, weekend trips, or longer getaways, considering the huge range of styles and sizes they come in.

It’s worth having at least one duffel bag because they always come in handy. Duffels are great for travel in countries where roller bags aren’t convenient (cobblestone streets, I’m looking at you) or if you don’t want to struggle with wheels on a train or a plane.

A duffel bag is better than a backpack if you need more space and a convenient opening. Most men’s backpacks have a top-loading design, which means they only open from the top of the bag, whereas duffels tend to have a clamshell opening, giving easy access to everything that’s inside. Because of this, duffels often feel roomier than backpacks, making them simple to pack.

Jane is a seasoned fashion expert with a particular interest in streetwear, accessories, and luxury leather goods. She splits her time between NYC, Paris, and New Zealand, constantly on the hunt for today’s latest trends

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Leather Duffle Bags Built for a Lifetime of Travel

Why choose a leather duffle bag?

Well, we know that you feel the call to get out there and explore. There’s a big wide world out there, and it’s waiting to be seen.

Here at The Real Leather Company, our leather duffel bags are built for the traveling man or woman. Whether that’s a weekend getaway reconnecting with nature, or a few days on a business trip.

Our Favorite Leather Travel Bags

We’ve done our best to curate a collection of leather weekender bags for every need. Browse them on this webpage.

If you’re looking for the ultimate premium bag, check out  The Full Grainer . It’s made from buffalo leather and the highest leather grade you can find out there, full grain leather. It’s big enough in its main compartment for all the dirty clothes you’ll accumulate over a weekend. But still compact enough to be a comfortable carry.

For something a bit more formal for work trips, we love  The Duffel . Its deep cognac leather screams class. And we love its easy access shoe compartment to keep your work shoes neat when using as carry on luggage.

Check out The  XL  for the ultimate in extra large expandable leather carry bags. It’s a new product in our leather goods arsenal, this large duffle bag sports a huge 32 inch pouch. Pack in sweats, sweaters, t-shirts and all your goodies for an extra long weekend.

And  The Travel  is our best selling cowhide genuine leather duffle bag. This light brown or dark brown medium duffle is one of our best sellers and comes with a luggage tag, a removable adjustable shoulder strap and plenty of room for all your gear.

The Canvas Weekender is a new arrival. This quilted waxed canvas duffel has crafted top handles and works just as well for trips to Vegas or New York - it’s the ultimate in versatility. This unisex weekender duffel comes in grey and is the ultimate travel duffel bag.

Leather Weekender Bag Craftsmanship

We believe the most important thing about our leather travel duffle bags is the quality of the materials and the work required. You need premium full grain or top grain leather for the bag and shoulder strap. You need the best hardware for the rivets, buckles and zippers.

Our leather overnight bags for men are painstakingly crafted to the highest standards by our teams of expert artisans. If it's not built to last, and it’s not heirloom quality, we’re simply not interested.

Not Just Men’s Duffle Bags

Alongside your new leather leather duffle bag, we love a few accessories to complete the look.

Our  leather toiletry bags  are practically a requirement for your road trips. Our  leather journals  compliment the thoughtful man. Our leather wallets are made to go the distance.

And if you’re planning a few day trips on your adventure, our  leather fanny packs  and tote bags are the ideal travel companions.

If you’re looking for a different type of travel bag, our messenger bags , shoulder bags , leather backpacks , crossbody bags and briefcases continue to get rave reviews from our customers.

Please note we do not currently offer rolling duffle bags, duffles with trolley sleeves or duffles with backpack straps.

Not sure what to get? Get a loved one a gift card and let them choose!

1. Why should I buy a leather duffle bag from The Real Leather Company?

Each piece is lovingly crafted by an expert artisan. We work with smaller tanneries that can take the time to produce the most high-quality goods.

We’ve sold over 25,000 leather bags in our time, and we’ve learned from over 1,000 star ratings. We believe in what we do.

2. How do I care for my leather travel bag?

Leather travel bags are built to last. But you can really develop the real leather by following a few simple steps.

See our full guide here:  3 Step Leather Care Guide  for information on how to fully care for your bag.

3. Are leather weekender bags waterproof?

Standard leather bags are not waterproof. But by using a leather cream, you can develop their water resistance.

A good quality leather duffle bag should be fine when it rains. But if your leather duffle gets really soaked, we recommend air drying outside in a dry climate.

4. What is a duffle bag or gym bag used for?

Most of our customers use leather weekender bags for men to store their gear when on trips. These can be business trips, weekend trips or even just a trip to the gym.

When you need to carry all your travel essentials for a tough workout, but still look stylish, leather gym bags are ideal.

5. Do I get a warranty with my carry-on bag?

We think you’ll love your new leather duffle. But just in case it’s not quite right - all customers are protected by The Real Leather Guarantee.

With The Real Leather Guarantee, you can add a bag to your mental wishlist then, checkout confidently, knowing that you have a whole 30 days to decide if your leather bag is everything you dreamed of. Regular prices are in the USD on this page.

With the option to return your first order and subsequent handbag orders within 30 days, you can make your decision with full peace of mind.

Free shippings is now available on most items to the USA, United Kingdom and Canada. Please note we are online only and do not have an in-store shopping option. Please note we only provide free return shipping in cases when a leather or canvas duffle is faulty.

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• No Additional Cost: You pay nothing for repairs – parts, labor, and shipping included.
• Coverage: Plans starts on the date of purchase. Stains, rips or tears and seam separation covered from day one. Defects in materials or workmanship covered after the manufacturer warranty expires.
• Easy Claims Process: File a claim anytime online or by phone. Most claims approved within minutes. We will send you an e-gift card for the purchase price of your covered product. In some instances, we will replace or repair it.
• Product Eligibility: Plan must be purchased with a product or within 30 days of the product purchase. Pre-existing conditions are not covered.
• Terms & Details: More information about this protection plan is available within the “Product guides and documents” section. Simply click “User Guide” for more info. Terms & Conditions will be available in Your Orders on Amazon. Asurion will also email your plan confirmation with Terms & Conditions to the address associated with your Amazon account within 24 hours of purchase.
• Buy a lot of stuff on Amazon? Tons of items eligible for coverage, from the latest tech like Laptops, Game Consoles, TVs, Phones, and Cameras to major appliances, sporting goods, tools, toys, personal care, furniture, and more.
• Accidents Happen. That’s why for your portable products we cover accidental damage from handling such as drops, spills and cracked screens. We also cover electrical and mechanical malfunctions, power surges, and wear and tear.
• Past and Future Purchases covered. 30 days after you are enrolled, all eligible past purchases (up to 1 year prior to enrollment) and future eligible purchases made on Amazon will be covered by your plan as long as you are enrolled.
• Fast, easy claims. Frustration-Free claims, with most filed in minutes. We will fix it, replace it, or reimburse you with an Amazon e-gift card for the purchase price of your product (excluding tax). File at Asurion.com/amazon.
• No Hidden Fees. For just $16.99 a month + tax you’re covered for up to $5,000 in claims per 12-month period. *THIS PROGRAM IS MONTH-TO-MONTH AND WILL CONTINUE UNTIL CANCELED* Coverage for all products ends 30 days after the plan is canceled. Cancel any time.

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Return this item for free

We offer easy, convenient returns with at least one free return option: no shipping charges. All returns must comply with our returns policy.

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3 Year Luggage Protection Plan

4 year luggage protection plan, asurion complete protect: one plan covers all eligible past and future purchases on amazon.

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Rolling Garment Bags for Travel, Garment Bag with Wheels, Convertible Garment Duffel bag, Carry On Garment Bag with Shoe Compartment, Rolling Duffel Bag with Detachable Trolley System-Pink

Purchase options and add-ons

• All-in-One Rolling Garment Bag: The Vessgra Rolling Garment Bag combines the practicality of a garment bag and the versatility of a duffel bag. With its detachable trolley system and collapsible design, this garment duffle bag is perfect for business trips and weekend getaways - freeing your hands and making travel easy.
• Keep Your Suits Wrinkle-Free: Our travel garment bag features 51’’ length for your suits, jackets, coats or long dress. With ample space, elastic fixing buckles and suit hanging straps, your dresses and suits will remain wrinkle-free while traveling, saving you precious time and effort. Enjoy a hassle-free travel experience!
• Spacious Space for Travel: This rolling garment bag offers a generous 56L main compartment, 4 interior pockets to organize small items, 3 external front pockets and a back pocket for quick access. Keep your shoes separate in its own dedicated pocket and your passport in the side pocket. Effortlessly travel in style and convenience with this spacious bag.
• Long-lasting with Durable Materials: The Vessgra Rolling Garment Bag is built to last with high-quality zippers, water-resistant, scratch-resistant and tear-resistant Oxford fabric, ensuring your belongings stay protected. Equipped with smooth wheels, a support plate and durable alloy handle for stability during travel.
• Versatile Carrying Options: This garment duffle bag for travel comes with a detachable and adjustable shoulder strap, and a detachable trolley sleeve on backside, providing various carrying options such as a handbag, shoulder bag, cross bag, or roller bag, making it the ultimate travel companion!
• Widely Applications:This all-in-one garment bag on wheels is perfect for any adventure. It easily transforms into a shoulder bag, handbag, or trolley bag, and will seamlessly transition from business to leisure travel. Plus, its sleek design makes it a thoughtful and stylish choice for any occasion: Father's Day Thanksgiving, Christmas, Valentine's Day, and Birthdays.

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Similar styles with 4+ Stars

PRODUCT CERTIFICATION (1)

OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100 requires textiles-based products to be tested against a list of 1,000+ chemicals, to limit those which may be harmful to human health. Certification focus: #ProductSafety and #ChemicalsUsed.

Product information

Warranty & support, product description.

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Rolling Garment Bags with Wheels

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Customer reviews.

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• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 4 star 66% 12% 13% 0% 8% 12%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 3 star 66% 12% 13% 0% 8% 13%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 2 star 66% 12% 13% 0% 8% 0%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 1 star 66% 12% 13% 0% 8% 8%

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers like the durability, storage capacity, and quality of the suitcase. They mention it's a great travel bag with lots of room.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers are satisfied with the quality of the suitcase. They mention it has plenty of room and is a great travel bag.

" This bag is great . Got it for my husband who travels via air a lot and this is just an amazing item. It holds lots of items...." Read more

"This is such a great bag , loads of room. Carry the bag or attach it to the rolling cart either way you won’t regret buying this bag" Read more

" Nice bag ..." Read more

" Great travel bag ..." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the durability of the suitcase. They mention it's easy to handle and maneuver.

"...It has been great no zipper issues. No falling apart . I am happy with it overall so far. The true test will be when I travel in July for a week...." Read more

" Good quality . Easy to handle and maneuver. Love the wheels." Read more

" Great quality ..." Read more

Customers appreciate the suitcase's storage capacity. They mention it has loads of room.

"...It holds lots of items . Way more than one would think. Highly recommend this bag." Read more

"I love the durability, the space , and the price. It has been great no zipper issues. No falling apart. I am happy with it overall so far...." Read more

"This is such a great bag, loads of room . Carry the bag or attach it to the rolling cart either way you won’t regret buying this bag" Read more

Reviews with images

While on our first trip, th trap broke.

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DESIGNED FOR
BACKCOUNTRY TRAVEL

Adventure moto is brutally hard on gear. Rocky water crossings, rutted hill climbs, gnarly descents. Crashing, getting up, then crashing again. If all of that sounds familiar, we designed this gear for you.

CAMP | RIDE | MUSIC | GEAR

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Boundary IR Jacket

Come camp and ride with the Mosko Moto crew! A three-day campout in Death Valley, California.

THE KIT THAT STARTED IT ALL

The Backcountry Pannier Kit is our flagship product. Designed for transcontinental adventure touring, enduro-style riding, and camping from your bike. It's tough-as-nails and built to take a beating, and we stand behind it with a lifetime guarantee.

MOSKO MOTO MARKETPLACE

Introducing the Mosko Moto Marketplace. Your official spot for acquiring and selling pre-owned Mosko gear.

Upcoming Events & Rallies

Follow Our Tracks

Warranty and crash replacement.

We never cut corners during development or manufacturing, so we stand behind our products. If one fails due to a problem with materials or workmanship, we’ll make it right.

We offer an industry-leading limited lifetime warranty on all our sewn seam bags, and a two year warranty on welded seam bags. Contact us for discounted crash replacement pricing.

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