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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 seven bags we recommend—plus three 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 daily-carry bag , 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, best for daily carry: herschel supply co. sutton duffle mid-volume, also great: cotopaxi mariveles 32l duffel bag del día, 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 only in navy.

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

Herschel Supply Co. Sutton Duffle Mid-Volume

An affordable bag for daily use.

This midsize bag is for anyone who wants a simple duffle to use during the day. It’s great for commuting, going to the gym, or toting supplies on a park or beach excursion.

Get this if: You need an inexpensive bag with a casual style for your day-to-day activities and hobbies.

Why it’s great: If you were to ask a random person on the street to picture a small, basic duffle, they’d probably imagine a bag like the Herschel Supply Co. Sutton Duffle Mid-Volume . It has the classic shape, look, and feel of a traditional barrel duffle. Like most of the duffles we looked at, it comes with a removable shoulder strap, but you can carry it comfortably by its top handles, too. This decently constructed polyester bag with a center zipper running down its length is small enough that you can’t really overpack it or make it too heavy; basically, it’s the perfect size for daily tasks. Herschel bags are backed by a limited lifetime warranty . One thing to note for anyone who likes internal organization: The Sutton Duffle Mid-Volume has no internal pockets. It comes in a range of colors and a couple of patterns—six in all.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: This Herschel duffle is not the best-made bag we’ve encountered—the fabric feels thin, and the stitching is a bit slapdash. However, it is one of the better-made bags we’ve seen that cost less than $75. Even with light daily use, the Sutton Duffle Mid-Volume should last a good amount of time. Oddly, Herschel placed six small grommets on the bottom of the bag to (we assume) let out moisture. Unfortunately, that placement also lets plenty of moisture in if you accidentally put the bag down on a wet spot or coffee spill, which is not an inconceivable scenario in a gym or office.

Dimensions: 20.25 by 10.25 by 10.25 inches (LWH) Capacity : 28 liters Other sizes: none

Cotopaxi Mariveles 32L Duffel Bag Del Día

A daily-use bag made of upcycled material.

Similar in size to the Herschel bag, this duffle is strongly constructed out of upcycled materials. But it lacks a shoulder strap, and the color-block appearance may not be to everyone’s taste.

Get this if: You need a durable but inexpensive bag for simple daily use, but you also want a duffle made of sustainable materials, from a B Corporation.

Why it’s great: This kind of barrel-shaped 30-liter bag is something of a platonic ideal among duffle designs. Like the Herschel bag, the Cotopaxi Mariveles 32L Duffel Bag Del Día has the classic shape and feel of a barrel duffle. In contrast, however, it’s made of repurposed ripstop nylon that’s of a higher quality than the Herschel’s polyester, and it’s available for a lower price (though it lacks the Herschel bag’s included shoulder strap). We also continue to be impressed by Cotopaxi’s overall transparency and social mission. It’s a listed B Corp , and it takes pains to be as sustainable in its bags’ construction as possible, with a particular focus on labor practices. Like many of the company’s bags (indicated by the Del Día name), the Mariveles duffle is made from discarded material otherwise destined for the cutting-room floor, left over from other companies’ larger production runs. This is why each run of the Mariveles is distinct—the precise colors vary depending on what’s available.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: We’d love to see a shoulder strap included. Although the Mariveles does have loops so you can add your own shoulder strap, even a simple nylon one provided with the bag would go a long way toward making it one of our best overall picks. (There’s also a better likelihood that an included strap would coordinate with the motley colors of the bag.)

Dimensions: 17.5 by 10 by 10.5 inches (LWH) Capacity : 32 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.

If all that seems like too much for what you need, Matador also makes the 25-liter On-Grid Packable Duffle , which typically costs about $30 less. However, with unsealed zippers, it’s not as waterproof, and it doesn’t appear to be as durable. We’ve concluded that having something that should endure years of use and abuse is well worth spending a little more.

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 .

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.

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.

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.

eBags Mother Lode 29″ Checked Rolling Duffel : The Mother Lode is more of a hybrid piece of checked luggage than a true rolling duffle. Most of the bag is shaped around a hard-shell bottom, which seems to take away from the flexibility of a rolling duffle. You’re likely to be happier choosing one of our other duffle picks or one of our checked-luggage picks.

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, Incase, Marmot, 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.

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.

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The 16 Best Travel Duffel Bags on the Market in 2024

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

777 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 63 U.S. States Visited: 9

Keri Stooksbury

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Things To Consider With Travel Duffel Bags

1. bargain duffel bag for long weekends and short trips , 2. the classic adventure duffel, 3. spacious and capable duffel bag from osprey, 4. the truly waterproof duffel bag , 5. perfect for long-term traveling, 6. the business travel duffel, 7. the ultra lightweight duffel bag, 8. lightweight duffel that’s roomy enough for any traveler, 9. a large duffel perfect for expeditions, 11. bargain bag for those who want something a little different, 12. this vintage leather duffel shouts sophistication, 1. a rolling duffel that can handle anything you throw at it, 2. affordable wheeled duffel from amazon basics, 3. a capable rolling duffel that expands for more space, 4. top of the range rolling duffel with high-end extras, final thoughts.

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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.

The 12 Best Non-wheeled Travel Duffel Bags

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

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

• 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

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

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

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

• 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

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

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

• 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

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

The 4 Best Wheeled Duffel Bags

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

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

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What size duffel bag can i carry on a plane.

Duffel bags, like any type of carry-on luggage, will have to meet the luggage size restrictions set out by the airline you are flying with. These can differ from each airline, but 22 x 14 x 9-inch luggage is a fairly common restriction. Please check with your airline before you fly.

What are the best duffel bags?

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. These are some of our top picks:

• Patagonia Black Hole 40 Liter Duffel
• The North Face Base Camp Duffel

Are duffel bags good for traveling?

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

How do I choose a duffel bag?

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

• Size and capacity
• Wheels vs. no wheels
• Carry options
• Access, pockets, and organization
• Water resistance
• Material and durability

Was this page helpful?

About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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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!

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.

• Osprey Transporter Expedition Duffel – The Overall Best Duffel Bag
• Black Diamond StoneHauler Pro 30 L Duffel – Overall Best Duffel Bag (Runner-up)
• 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
• Gregory Alpaca – Best Packable Duffel

Osprey Transporter Expedition Duffel

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

Black Diamond StoneHauler Pro 30 L Duffel

• Price: > $$$
• > Wonderful design
• > Laptop compartment

Nomatic Travel Bag

• > Highly-functional backpack with a duffel mode
• > Durable and modern traveler equipped

Monarc Setra Duffel Backpack

• > Carry on Compliant
• > Made from recycled bottles

REI Co-op Big Haul Recycled Rolling Duffel – 30

• > Integrated wheels
• > Large for longer trips

Patagonia Black Hole Duffle

• > Backpack handles and grab handles
• > Nice and light

Kodiak 60l Weekender

• > High quality leather
• > Roomy and spacious

Under Armour Women’s UA Motivator Duffle Sport Bag

• > Lightweight
• > Water Resistant

UNIQUEBELLA Suit Travel Duffel

• > 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

• > Compact and 28L
• > Tons of organizational pockets

Gregory Alpaca Duffel

• > Comes with packing cube

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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.

Overall Best Duffel Bag (Runner-up) – Black Diamond StoneHauler Pro 30 L Duffel

Black Diamond backpacks are among the hardiest and most respected in the travel world. Their StoneHauler Duffel Bag is no less impressive! If you’re looking for a duffel bag with compartments then this is the perfect option.

This duffle bag was specifically designed for air travel, so it really shines when it comes to internal organisation in the main compartment with a dedicated area for your laptop and chargers. It includes a proper set of backpack straps that really do feel, well, like an actual backpack, which we found to be a great feature when we tested it! Its size makes it perfect for carry-on-only travel for week-long breaks.

• 3o L perfect carry on size
• Wonderful design
• Weather resistant material
• Fully padded exterior zippered laptop sleeve
• Backpack straps on the same side as main zipper
• Zips are a big fiddly
• No water bottle pocket

How The Black Diamond StoneHauler Tested

To put the Black Diamond StoneHauler through its paces we brought it along on a weekend escape. Firstly, it passed the “will Ryanair actually let me take this into the cabin test?” comfortably which is pretty much 101 for any would-be carry-on piece. Moving on, the Black Diamond StoneHauler feels nice to the touch and its suave, blue-grey shades suited our clothes wonderfully. Zips and fittings all work very well and show no sign of breakage and we found the extra pockets and pouches great for packing in chargers and snacks.

It didn’t rain during our trip so cannot comment on the weatherproofing but all things considered, we were very impressed by the StoneHauler.

Is the Black Diamond StoneHauler for me?

This is a well made and well thought out travel duffel bag. Its features, pouches and external pockets are perfect for a short trip. It’s very durable and aesthetically pleasing. This carry on duffel bag is great for business trips because it stores your tech with ease. The only thing we’re a bit disappointed about is that it doesn’t fit a 15″ laptop — you’ve got other packs for that .

Our team loved this bag and felt it was the best duffel bag with internal compartments. Our team tends to travel with quite a bit of tech gear so they really love how these pockets and compartments can be used to store things like cables, chargers and hard drives. They also thought it was a great size for carry on without becoming too heavy.

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 – Gregory Alpaca Duffel

The Alpaca Duffel is versatile and resilient carry-all, skillfully merging practical travel functionalities into a robust duffel design. Encased in a water-shielding TPU layer and crafted from 40% recycled material, this duffel ensures solid protection for your belongings. The bottom is fortified against wear and tear, with an additional layer of foam for enhanced durability. Thoughtfully designed for the contemporary traveller, the bag features an expandable zippered end pocket to segregate your clean attire from the soiled, alongside an ingenious packing cube that serves both as a tool for packing and a storage solution.

The detachable shoulder straps deliver comfortable carry and the interior mesh compartments are great for organization of your travel gear. With a range of sizes available, spanning from 40 to 100 liters, there’s a perfect Alpaca Duffel for every adventure, big or small. The product is priced between $139.95 for the 40L version and $199.95 for the 100L.

• Trusted brand
• Comes with packing cube
• Shiny exterior
• Doesn’t have a rigid structure

How The Gregory Alpaca Duffel Tested

I absolutely love the Alpaca Duffel for its unmatched versatility and durability on all my travels. The thoughtful design details, such as the expandable pocket for separating dirty clothes, and the handy packing cube, truly make packing and organizing a breeze. However, I find the shiny finish a bit too ‘glarey’ for me and it’s not the lightest 60 liter duffel I have tried. Having said that, it is one of the best travel items from Gregory in my opinion.

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…

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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 .

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Share or save this post

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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Best Duffel Bags of 2024

From proven outdoor models with backpack straps to rolling designs for travel, below are the year's top duffels.

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Whether you’re traveling by air, driving up to a cabin for the weekend, or venturing across the world on an expedition, you’ll likely be using a duffel bag to get your gear from one place to the next. Duffels are popular among all kinds of travelers for good reason: they’re easy to load and carry, and many are built to take a beating. Below we break down the best duffels of 2024, including top travel, outdoor, and waterproof bags of both the standard and rolling varieties. For more background information, see our duffel bag comparison table and buying advice below the picks.  

Our Team's Duffel Bag Picks

• Best Overall Duffel Bag: Patagonia Black Hole 55
• Best Budget Duffel Bag: REI Co-op Roadtripper 100L
• Best Carry-On Duffel Bag: The North Face Base Camp Voyager Roller 21”
• Best Weekender Duffel Bag: Thule Aion Duffel Bag
• Best High-Capacity Wheeled Duffel: Osprey Sojourn Shuttle 100L
• Best Ultralight/Packable Duffel Bag: Osprey Ultralight Stuff Duffel
• Best Waterproof Duffel Bag: Yeti Panga 75

Best Overall Duffel Bag

1. patagonia black hole 55 ($169).

Patagonia’s Black Hole line helped make duffels cool, and we think the 55-liter version is the best all-around bag on the market. In 2024, all Black Holes are made with 100%-recycled materials, along with the premium build quality and trendy colorways that Patagonia is known for. The duffel is beautifully constructed from end to end, and you get multiple color options from simple black to phosphorus green. It’s remarkably tough, too: The fabric is burly 900-denier ripstop nylon with a beefy TPU finish for water resistance (note: in the latest version, this laminate is now fully recycled and has a matte look). This duffel is not waterproof like the Yeti and SealLine models below, but it should keep your gear dry in light to moderate moisture just fine.

We've been using the same Black Hole Duffel for almost ten years now and it's still going strong, despite being packed with sharp climbing gear and shlepped to all corners of the world (by plane, train, horse, and snowmobile). In terms of features and carrying comfort, you get a multitude of ways to grab and carry the duffel: The removable backpack straps are more comfortable and functional than most, and the bag comes with reinforced haul handles and webbing loops for carrying by hand. Keep in mind that this duffel does not have a particularly rigid structure (only the base is lightly padded), so it doesn’t offer a ton in the way of protection for your fragile items. Finally, Patagonia’s Black Hole line also includes a variety of versions (we love the 70L for expedition use and the 40L as a carry-on), including smaller travel packs and wheeled duffels. See the Patagonia Black Hole 55

Best Budget Duffel Bag

2. rei co-op roadtripper 100l ($70).

If you’re in the market for basic storage and protection for your gear, the REI Co-op Roadtripper is one of the best values on this list. At just $70, this bag is made from burly recycled polyester and sports a large detachable shoulder strap and handles (no backpack-style straps here, which is notable for those who plan on carrying their bag long distances). We also love the minimal weight, which at just 1 pound 6 ounces is one of the lightest duffels here.

Who is the REI Roadtripper Duffel best for? It makes a great gear hauler for those who need space and protection without the bells and whistles. We’ve used the 100-liter version on a number of big trips including all the way down to Patagonia (four flights) and came away impressed. The bag is well-built, functional, and has withstood quite bit of use and abuse. At the same time, it’s not waterproof (or even highly water-resistant) and definitely not a fully featured bag for travel. If you want more protection and conveniences like internal storage, side compartments, and backpack straps, we’d recommend the Patagonia Black Hole above instead. See the REI Co-op Roadtripper 100L

Best Carry-On Duffel Bag

3. the north face base camp voyager roller 21” ($240).

For frequent travelers, there is a lot to be said for the convenience of a wheeled duffel, especially one that can be used as a carry-on. At 40 liters and with dimensions that meet size restrictions for most airlines, the TNF Base Camp Voyager Roller is a great option for air travelers who don’t pack the kitchen sink. The wheels are large yet smooth and functional over a variety of surfaces, and equally at home on the dirt roads of a far-flung village as in the airport. What’s more, the rigid internal frame and strong plastic handles (one telescoping) are durable enough to take a beating, whether you’re lifting the duffel, rolling it over cobblestones, or tossing it into the back of a truck. And with a PFC-free DWR finish, the Base Camp Voyager will keep your gear dry in the process.

What the Base Camp Voyager Roller is not, however, is a fully featured piece of luggage for business travelers. It lacks the sleek look and organizational compartments of more typical roller bags, with only one internal mesh pocket, a laptop sleeve, and a small external zip pocket. And at $240, you’ll pay a premium for the durable construction and wheeled design. For $40 less, the Osprey Daylite Carry-On 40 offers better organization, but its sophisticated appearance might not appeal to those looking for a true duffel design. In the end, the Base Camp Voyager Roller is a great combination of durability, functionality, and outdoor style. For those who want more space, TNF also makes a 29-inch version that can accommodate more than 90 liters' worth of gear. See The North Face Base Camp Voyager Roller 21"

Best Weekender Duffel Bag

4. thule aion duffel bag ($190).

Many of the duffels here are designed for expedition use or toting a week’s worth of gear (or more), but the reality is that most travels take place over the weekend. A good weekender bag can hold around 35 liters’ worth of clothing and personal supplies, meets carry-on requirements, and features a range of internal and external pockets to help you stay organized. Within this category, the Thule Aion is our top pick and gets high marks for style too, with a classy aesthetic that looks the part in both urban and outdoor environments. The 35-liter bag is also decently durable, with a waxed 600-denier polyester canvas outer that’s abrasion-resistant and can fend off light moisture.

In addition to its good looks and build quality, the Thule Aion is high on organization with two separate internal compartments (great for separating clean and dirty clothes), a laptop sleeve and internal zippered pocket, and external stretch and zippered stashes beside the front zip. Portability is also good with two carry handles, a padded (and removable) shoulder strap, and a pass-through sleeve for securing to a roller bag. Added up, the Aion offers similar functionality as a travel backpack but in duffel bag form, which is great for those looking for a cleaner, more streamlined look. At $190, it’s more expensive than most bags here of similar size, but the added features and sleek appearance do help justify the added cost.  See the Thule Aion Duffel Bag

Best High-Capacity Wheeled Duffel

5. osprey sojourn shuttle 100l ($395).

For travelers torn between a standard duffel and traditional wheeled luggage, the recently updated Osprey Sojourn Shuttle (previously just the “Shuttle”) may be exactly what you’re looking for. This high-end duffel is extremely roomy, durable, and comes with tons of organization. Time and time again, we’ve loaded an entire vacation’s worth of clothing and gear into the Osprey with ease. Unlike cheaper wheeled duffels that have a tendency to fall over when full and upright, it maintains its stability nicely, and the larger-than-average wheels get the job done on uneven surfaces like cobblestones and gravel roads. And all of the other features are there, from external compression straps to tighten down your load to a separate lower compartment for wet gear.

The major shortcomings of the Osprey Sojourn Shuttle are simply trade-offs inherent to the roller design. First, you won’t be throwing this duffel over your shoulder and strolling through the airport or walking through a major city. It’s heavy at over 8 pounds empty and must be transported almost exclusively on wheels. In addition, when packed to the brim, you may find yourself pushing the standard 50-pound checked baggage limit—particularly if you go with the 130-liter version (we’ve cut it close with the 100L on occasion). Finally, at $395, the Sojourn is pricey—even within Osprey’s lineup, you can save with the simplified Daylite Wheeled Duffel 85 ($240) and more durable Transporter Wheeled Duffel 90 ($340). But for a premium roller duffel from a brand known for its high-quality, durable offerings, look no further than the Sojourn Shuttle. See the Osprey Sojourn Shuttle 100L

Best Ultralight/Packable Duffel Bag

6. osprey ultralight stuff duffel ($45).

Not everyone needs their duffel bag to pack down small, but in certain situations, it can be a really nice feature to have. Perhaps you’re low on storage space, headed out on an expedition where every inch and ounce count, or simply need to bring along an extra duffel for the souvenirs you plan to pick up during your travels. Regardless of the reason, it’s hard to beat the utility of an ultra-packable design, and Osprey’s 30-liter Ultralight Stuff Duffel is one of our favorite options. Clocking in at just 7.1 ounces and packing down smaller than a 1-liter water bottle in its integrated pocket, the aptly named Ultralight Stuff is far and away the most streamlined option here. For just $45, it’s almost a no-brainer whether you’re using it as your primary bag or a backup.

We love the versatility of the Osprey for space- and weight-conscious situations, but keep in mind that this isn’t your standard travel duffel. With a thin nylon construction and small 30-liter capacity, it won’t hold up to long-term abuse, keep your gear dry, or shuttle much more than a well-organized overnight kit. But it’s fully functional for the right application with a padded shoulder strap, accessory pocket, and smooth-running zippers.  See the Osprey Ultralight Stuff Duffel

Best Waterproof Duffel Bag

7. yeti panga 75 ($350).

Osprey is an industry leader in backpacking packs, so it should come as no surprise that their Transporter toes the line between backpack and duffel better than most. With padded straps and an adjustable sternum strap designed with carrying comfort in mind, the Transporter is a great option for travelers who need to cover distance with their duffel. In terms of features, a zippered pocket at one end is great for storing important items like travel documents and charging cables, and you get a wide U-shaped opening along with an interior mesh pocket, deployable rain flap, and straps to keep items in place as you walk. Added up, the Transporter is one of our favorite duffels for trips that start at the airport and take you to seriously adventurous locales.

Coming in at $180 for the 65-liter version, the Osprey Transporter is a similar bang for your buck as the Patagonia Black Hole above and a touch more expensive than The North Face's Base Camp below. Durability-wise, its 900-denier recycled polyester is on par with that of the Black Hole (the TNF is a bit more robust at 1000D), and our duffel shows no real signs of wear after being thrown around on a month-long trip to Nepal. The lack of an over-the-shoulder strap is a bit of an inconvenience, but you do get a functional carry handle along with Osprey’s best-in-class backpack carry. All told, if you’re looking for the carrying comfort of a premium pack alongside the convenience of a duffel, the Transporter should be near the top of your list. And for those who spend a lot of time around water, Osprey also makes the Transporter Waterproof Duffel , which is available in 40-, 70-, and 100-liter capacities and offers an impressive IPX7 rating. See the Osprey Transporter 65

9. Mountain Hardwear Expedition Duffel 100 ($280)

For climbers embarking on long journeys into the greater ranges, it doesn’t get much better than the Mountain Hardwear Expedition. This duffel is purpose built for hard work, with water-resistant 840-denier ballistic nylon in the body and a burly 1000-denier base lined with foam for both structure and protection. A wrap-around daisy chain allows you to lash it down in endless configurations, whether you’re headed to basecamp with the help of a mule, truck, or boat. And the Expedition’s most unique element is its massive D-zip opening, which extends via wings on each end and even folds all the way open for great basecamp organization (complete with internal tote bag-style handles). 

For such a utilitarian duffel, the Expedition packs in a surprising number of organizational features. You get a handy internal compression system that can secure all or some of your load, along with four small zip pockets (two internal, two external). And because we’re all familiar with wrestling the zipper closed on an over-full duffel, many will appreciate the integrated top compression strap that cinches the sides together and reduces zipper strain. Finally, like most designs here, the Expedition includes backpack straps, which also serve as a carry handle by way of integrated Velcro patches. The technical style, oversized capacities, and price tag will turn away most casual users, but for demanding expeditions, the Expedition is a great tool for the job. See the Mountain Hardwear Expedition Duffel 100

10. Gregory Supply 90 ($120)

We really like what Gregory has done with their Supply Duffel. Updated last year, this bag simply screams “function,” with a durable 600-denier polyester body and base, burly #10 YKK zipper and oversized T-Grip pull, and a price tag that beats out most duffels here. In fact, at just $120 for the 90-liter version, the Supply is still considerably cheaper than many 60-liter models on our list. For travel and outdoor applications like camping, ski trips, and even expeditions, this is a durable and high-capacity duffel that checks most of the boxes. 

But with its function-first attitude, the Gregory Supply isn’t for everyone. While you do get tuckaway backpack straps and one external pocket, it lacks the bells and whistles we see in much of the competition, including a U-shaped top zip and dirty-laundry compartment. We’ve come to value the large top access of a model like the Black Hole when we’re living out of a duffel, but the simple entry of the Gregory is sufficient for most uses. In the end, as long as you’re aware of the trade-offs, the Supply is a really nice option to have that will save you some money without making many compromises in terms of durability. See the Gregory Supply 90

11. The North Face Base Camp Medium ($149)

First released in 1986, the Base Camp is a classic offering from The North Face and a direct competitor to our top-ranked Patagonia Black Hole above. It’s similarly tough and water-resistant, offers easy access to the inside, and can be carried as a backpack, which we love. Both bags offer comparable organization pockets, but the Base Camp’s medium and large models add an exterior compartment on one end that allows you to separate dirty clothes and shoes. The Base Camp comes in more colors and designs than we can count, and is available in capacities ranging from 31 liters (XS) to a whopping 150 liters (XXL). For everything from a carry-on to an expedition workhorse, this is one of the most popular duffels on the market year after year.

Although we do like the Base Camp line and have used them for years, we prefer the Black Hole for a few reasons. First, the outer fabric on The North Face shows scuff marks more easily than its Patagonia counterpart. Second, at 3 pounds 8 ounces, the TNF is nearly a pound heavier. Finally, we found the backpack straps on the Base Camp to be slightly more difficult to detach than those on the Black Hole, making your airport check-in a bit more frantic. But for a reliable all-around duffel and more versatility in terms of size and colors, the Base Camp is a solid choice. And TNF also offers the Base Camp Voyager (in 32, 42, and 62L versions), which features a more modern design, lighter materials, and improved organization.  See the North Face Base Camp Medium

12. Black Diamond Stonehauler 60L ($190)

Relatively new to the scene is Black Diamond’s Stonehauler, which offers a climber’s take on the classic outdoor duffel. Building off popular designs like the Patagonia Black Hole and TNF Basecamp, Black Diamond placed 5-millimeter closed cell foam into the Stonehauler’s walls to guard against sharp gear like ice tools and climbing cams (a nice touch, as our cams have dug a hole in the base of our Black Hole). They also added on a 2-kilonewton haul loop for extra assurance when securing your gear to a mule or truck (heck, you could even haul the duffel up El Cap). Tack on a rugged 600- by 1500-denier body fabric and reinforced ends, and the Stonehauler is impressively durable and ready for all the rigors of your next expedition.

We’re impressed with Black Diamond’s design and think the Stonehauler makes a great fit for climbing, but the duffel risks being overkill for the majority of people and uses. Most travelers don’t need a haul loop or padded side walls, especially when the added tech results in a higher price (the 60L Stonehauler is $41 more than the TNF Base Camp 71L, for example). Further, we’re a bit miffed by the design, which places more durable fabric on the ends of the bag but not on the base. But BD does add some nice travel features with three zippered pockets, an internal laundry bag and compression straps, and removable shoulder straps. And you can upgrade to their Pro models (30 and 45L), which feature a padded laptop sleeve. See the Black Diamond Stonehauler 60L

13. Eagle Creek Migrate 60L ($129)

The Eagle Creek Migrate 60L is a nice option for travelers looking for a durable hauler with an assortment of carry options. It’s one of the more affordable duffels on the market at just $129 for the 60-liter version, and offers no shortage of bells and whistles with both tote and haul handles, glove-friendly zipper pulls, lockable main zips, an external zip pocket, and the option for both over-the-shoulder and backpack carry. What’s more, the main fabric is fairly robust (900D) and dirt-resistant, while the seamless bathtub base (1680D) will keep your gear dry even on wet ground. It all adds up to one of the best values out there and a great duffel from a respected travel luggage company.

All that said, the Migrate falls short of the more premium options above in one main way: access. Eagle Creek opted for a straight zip instead of the U-shaped lid of many duffels here (like the Black Hole above), meaning the Migrate is a lot harder to live out of and keep organized. But on the bright side, the simplified build does result in a lower price tag, and you get 5 extra liters of space if you leave the side buckles undone. And we’ve gotta give props to Eagle Creek for their efforts toward sustainability: The Migrate is made with bluesign-approved materials and recycled plastics. In addition to the standard version here, it also comes as a wheeled duffel in 110- and 130-liter capacities. See the Eagle Creek Migrate 60L

14. Gregory Alpaca 60 ($160)

Updated last year, the Gregory Alpaca is a durable and water-resistant duffel that checks all the boxes for rigorous outdoor use. Like the Black Hole above, it has a large U-shaped opening, boasts padded and removable backpack straps, and is made with a durable 900-denier ripstop polyester with a TPU coating for water resistance. Throw in storm flaps over the top zipper, an expandable end pocket for dirty laundry, internal mesh pockets, and an included packing cube that pulls double duty as a stuff sack, and the Alpaca strikes us as another thoughtfully built and well-equipped outdoor/travel duffel.

The Alpaca is a direct competitor to the Black Hole, and there’s certainly a lot to like about the design. The 60-liter version is about $10 cheaper than Patagonia’s 55-liter duffel, the packing cube is a nice addition (similar designs will run you $20 to $30), and the oversized end pocket has a lot of utility compared to the Black Hole’s smaller side pocket. But Gregory can’t quite match the brand cachet of Patagonia, and you only get a choice between three colors (compared to the Black Hole’s nine). In the end, both are high-quality outdoor duffels from trusted brands—built to withstand air travel, far-flung expeditions, and everything in between. See the Gregory Alpaca 60

15. Cotopaxi Allpa 70L ($200)

Cotopaxi has carved out a corner of the market with their spunky outdoor and travel gear, epitomized by fun colorblocking and sustainably sourced materials. The Allpa Duo 70L here is their largest and most functional duffel, great for international flights and road trips alike. Similar to the Black Hole, the Allpa features durable materials and large U-shaped access to the main compartment. But it tacks on a few more features, including a separate laundry compartment with mesh pocket (we’ve found this incredibly useful) and three zippered accessory pockets on the exterior (the Black Hole has just one). We also appreciate the Cotopaxi’s convenient carry-handle stash pockets, which get them out of the way when not in use.

At $200 for the 70-liter version, the Allpa is about the same price as the Black Hole 70, and offers an extra dose of convenience with its additional features. But we do have a major gripe with its design: The duffel does not include buckles on the backpack straps, meaning you’ll have to unthread the webbing for unhindered access to the main compartment. But there’s still a lot to like about the duffel, especially for fans of Cotopaxi’s design aesthetic. The Allpa duffel also comes in a 50-liter version, and the Allpa collection also features a full lineup of travel packs, hip packs, and gear hauler totes.  See the Cotopaxi Allpa 70L

16. REI Co-op Big Haul 60 Recycled ($139)

We know the competition is stiff in this category, including popular and proven bags like the Patagonia Black Hole and The North Face Base Camp above. But the second REI duffel to make our list wins out in one important category: price. For $139, the Big Haul 60 is another tough and versatile option with a healthy array of bells and whistles. You get solid weather resistance, comfortable backpack straps, a number of handles for easy grabbing, and decent organization on the inside in the form of mesh pockets. The 60-liter duffel included here likely can be used as a carry-on provided it’s not stuffed to the gills, or you can play it safe and opt for the 40-liter version for $119. 

Given that the REI Co-op Big Haul 60 is a strong value, why is it included toward the bottom of this list? From our experience, the build quality isn’t quite up to Patagonia standards, and the REI doesn’t have that sleek, high-end look either. On the other hand, the Big Haul has a thicker (1680D) fabric around the bottom to prevent wear and tear (and a thinner 400D nylon around the top), many of the same features, and should get the job done for most people and uses. What’s more, it's now made with recycled fabric, which is a big win for everyone. All in all, it’s another quality product from REI’s in-house line at an attractive price point. And the Co-op also makes the Big Haul Recycled in a rolling version, which comes in both 30 and 34-inch sizes ($279 and $299, respectively). See the REI Co-op Big Haul 60 Recycled

17. Mountain Hardwear Camp 4 65 ($140)

Mountain Hardwear offers some of the most serious outdoor duffels on the market, from the high-capacity Expedition above to the Camp 4 here. Riffing off the design of a haul bag, the Camp 4 has a cylindrical shape that lies on its side when open but can stand up on its own when full. In our opinion this is more of a stylistic feature than anything (climbers will love the vibe), but it might come in handy while staging duffels for transport—and we do love the large external zip pocket at the top for staying organized. Finally, one large grab handle on each side are great for the duffel shuffle, and the backpack straps remove when not in use.

But despite its haul-bag aesthetic, the Camp 4 is not particularly robust compared to most duffels here. The relatively thin 420-denier nylon will hold up to a lot of abuse, but we don’t recommend actually trying to haul the bag up an abrasive rock face (the similarly minded Black Diamond Stonehauler above features a much thicker 600x1500D shell). On the other hand, we do appreciate the Camp 4’s generous reinforcements around the edges, which is where duffels tend to collect wear, and its relatively compact packed size will come in handy for some. In the end, the Mountain Hardwear is a great combination of style and function for $50 less than the Stonehauler 60, making it another nice option for those packing for their next adventure. See the Mountain Hardwear Camp 4 65

18. Backcountry All Around 60L ($139)

The All Around is Backcountry’s addition to the outdoor duffel market and a continuation of their growing line of in-house gear. Similar to the Patagonia Black Hole and The North Face Base Camp above, it boasts a U-shaped zipper opening, several pockets for organization, and the option of being worn as a backpack. And like the Base Camp, an external zipper on one end opens to a large secondary compartment, great for separating dirty laundry or shoes. And with a recent redesign, the All Around now includes a padded base for added structure and protection.

Backcountry didn’t necessarily do anything new in the All Around, but they did make a quality bag at a respectable price point. Stacked up against our top-ranked Black Hole, it lags behind in durability (300D vs. 900D polyester) and capacity options, and you’ll either love or hate the bold goat logo on one end. And while some of Patagonia’s colorways are more subtle or sophisticated (call it what you will), Backcountry has taken a page out of Cotopaxi’s book with their loud, colorblocked designs. The All Around will save you $30 compared to the Black Hole 55 (and give you 5L more space), but we recommend that consistent travelers stick with the tried-and-true Patagonia. See the Backcountry All Around 60L

  19. SealLine WideMouth Duffel 70L ($165)

Along with the Yeti Panga, SealLine’s WideMouth is the only other fully waterproof duffel on this list. These two bags are quite different, however: With a much thinner nylon build, the SealLine has a significantly lower weight and profile than the Yeti, which is great when space is at a premium. Further, it features a roll-top design instead of the Panga’s burly waterproof zipper, which doesn’t offer quite the same level of protection, but it does pack down nicely. Perhaps most importantly, the WideMouth is roughly one-third the price of the Panga and more than enough duffel for most people. 

Why do we have the SealLine ranked here? The Yeti has more structure and is much easier to pack, not to mention the fully waterproof zipper system offers more assurance (and less room for user error) than the WideMouth’s roll-top seal. Moreover, the Yeti has backpack straps and therefore is easier to carry. The cherry on top: The extra thickness of the Yeti means that it’s much more durable and abrasion resistant in the long term. But for those looking for a waterproof duffel without breaking the bank, the WideMouth is a nice option. And SealLine also makes the Pro Zip Duffel , which features a waterproof main zipper and retails for $315 for the 70-liter capacity. See the SealLine WideMouth Duffel

Duffel Bag Comparison Table

Duffel bag buying advice, duffel bag categories: travel, outdoor, waterproof, duffel bag capacity, roller duffel bags.

• Main Compartment
• External Pockets
• Compression Straps
• Daisy Chains (Lash Points)
• Carrying Options
• Durability (Denier)

Water Resistance

• Packability  

Travel Duffels Whether you’re packing for a weekend getaway, flying home for the holidays, or going to the gym, travel duffels offer a durable way to transport items from Point A to B. These bags range from minimally featured duffels—often just sporting hand carry straps and shoulder straps for short commutes—to roller bags (like the Osprey Sojourn Shuttle 100L ) that are great for carting around heavy loads. Robust fabrics and rugged wheels set the travel bags in this article apart from the standard suitcases and rollers you often see at the airport. That said, these bags lack the focus on water-resistance that we see in outdoor duffels, usually forgoing storm flaps over the zippers and DWR coating. But for travelers who don’t plan on subjecting their bags to the elements, travel duffels are a nice mix of durability, convenience, and simplicity.

Outdoor Duffels Many duffels on this list are made by big outdoor brands like Patagonia, The North Face, Osprey, and Black Diamond. Outdoor use can vary substantially, from throwing your bag in the back of a truck to hardcore expeditions. In this category, look for robust fabrics with DWR coating, water-resistant zippers or storm-flaps, comfortable backpack carrying straps, lash points, and handles for grabbing the bag from multiple angles. And versatility is a notable upside of outdoor duffels: We’ll often use them for basic travel purposes as well, especially those with multiple carrying options and convenient organizational features like U-shaped openings and multiple pockets or compartments. For example, the Patagonia Black Hole , our top pick, can be used from anything from serious outdoor exploration to standard air travel (and it looks the part for both). 

Waterproof Duffels Most duffels here are highly water-resistant, meaning they're able to keep out light to moderate rain and snow. But a small percentage of users, including rafters, fishermen and women, and winter adventurers, need a fully waterproof duffel. The market is limited, but there are a few bags that offer a high level of waterproofing, including the Yeti Panga, SealLine WideMouth, Osprey Transporter Waterproof , and NRS High Roll Duffel Dry Bag. With the help of thick waterproof fabrics, watertight zippers, and roll tops, these bags are designed to keep your gear dry on wet boat decks, in inclement weather, and during quick dunks in the water (the Osprey even has an IPX7 rating, meaning it'll keep water out when submerged in 1 meter of water for 30 minutes). Given their overbuilt nature, we wouldn’t want a waterproof duffel for anything but the harshest and wettest of environments: They’re simply too heavy, expensive, and technically oriented (minimal organization and straps) for everyday use. 

Large: 75+ liters Duffels that are 75 liters or larger are heavy haulers for longer trips, multiple people, and outdoor equipment (boots, backpacks, tents, etc.). When we fly to go backpacking, we love our 100-liter REI Co-op Roadtripper Duffel : It can fit multiple empty backpacks, bulky footwear, and all of our extras. It’s worth noting that these bags can get heavy fast depending on what you stow inside of them, so keep an eye out for total weight as you’re packing. Clothing and most regular items should keep you below the 50-pound checked bag limit, but if you’re packing anything particularly heavy, it can be an issue. And for serious outdoor and expedition use, duffels like The North Face Base Camp are made all the way up to 150 liters.

The roller duffel is one of those “have your cake and eat it too” scenarios for travelers wanting the ease of wheeling their bag with the packing convenience of a duffel. We’ll start by noting that roller duffels are quite popular, and particularly for air travel. You simply take the bag out of your car, wheel it to check-in (or your gate if it’s a carry-on), and you’re off. Roller duffels are ideal for those who don’t want to carry their bag on their back or shoulder, and some of the smaller versions (in the 40-liter range and under) are carry-on compatible.

But roller duffels do have their limitations. First, rarely do roller duffels come with anything more than carry handles (read: no backpack straps), making them difficult to transport in areas without sufficient rolling surfaces. Second, cheaper or ultralight duffels have a tendency to fall over when full, which is something to be aware of when making a purchase (heavier models like the Osprey Sojourn Shuttle do not fall over, which makes them worth the extra cost in our opinion). Finally, roller duffels inherently have more breakable parts. Some duffels have replaceable wheels but many don’t, which is a quick way to lose all of that easy transport functionality.

For travel scenarios where you’ll be moving around a lot—think backpacking through Europe—we prefer non-roller duffels. They’re easy to grab and throw on your back, and you don’t have to worry about the surface (if you’ve ever tried taking a roller duffel down a cobblestone street, you know what we’re talking about). If you’re primarily an air traveler and moving your bag long distances by vehicle, a roller duffel is a fine option, and you do get the added benefit of one hard side for protecting your belongings. For the purposes of this article and the picks above, we’ve included a handful of our favorite roller models, and some of the standard designs have wheeled versions available.

  Pockets and Organization

Main Compartment Hands down, the easiest duffels to pack, unpack, and rummage around in are those with a large, U-shaped opening. Duffels such as the Osprey Transporter 65 feature this design: A zippered flap extends around three of the four sides of the top of the duffel and opens to reveal most of the contents. These bags provide easy access whether in a hotel, tent, or on the road. Other bags open in a more traditional style, with one zipper that extends across the top of the bag. With a smaller opening, access to the contents is more limited, and especially when full (this means more rummaging and disorganization). If you’re looking to prioritize convenience above all else, large roller duffels like the Osprey Sojourn Shuttle offer the most rigid structure and largest opening for packing and unpacking.

External Pockets When choosing a duffel, consider how much you’ll want access to your belongings as you travel. The most streamlined models feature one large compartment with no internal organization (the REI Co-op Roadtripper, for example), while more fully featured designs include handy external pockets for small items or padded compartments for a tablet or computer. Some duffel bags are even made with specific gear organization in mind, such as the Thule Bike Gear Locker Duffel (with dedicated pockets for shoes and a helmet) and the Thule RoundTrip Snowsports Duffel, which features a fleece-lined goggle pocket and boot compartments on each end. For travelers, we think that at least one external pocket is nice to separate out your smaller essentials. 

Compression Straps Compression straps, both internal and external, can help make a duffel’s load more compact. Internal straps remove strain from the zipper and compress your gear inside the duffel to keep it from shifting during transit. We see these on models like the Patagonia Black Hole and Mountain Hardwear Expedition Duffel . External compression straps can be on the ends or sides (such as with The North Face Base Camp) and tighten the duffel after the zipper has been shut. External straps are especially useful on large duffels that might not be stuffed to capacity, and they help make your bag less unruly for travel. Additionally, if you plan on frequently carrying your duffel as a backpack, we encourage you to consider a model with compression straps—it makes the whole operation a lot more comfortable.

Daisy Chains (Lash Points) If you’re using your duffel primarily to transport your belongings via plane, train, or automobile, you’re probably wondering why you might need the daisy chains lining the exterior. However, put your pack in a raft, saddle it to a mule, or strap it to the roof of your van, and you’ll wonder how you ever got by without them. Not all duffels come with daisy chains (a.k.a. lash points) and some have more than others. If you know that you’ll need to secure your duffel for a wild ride, definitely be on the lookout for a bag that sports plenty of reinforced lash points. The most outdoorsy the bag, the more likely it is to be lined with daisy chains.

Carrying Options: Backpack Straps, Shoulder Straps, Handles

We’ve all been there: clumsily dragging our bag across the airport lobby and cursing ourselves for not purchasing something with wheels (or a travel backpack ). And if you’re looking for a bag in the 60-liter range or larger, know that when it gets full, it’s going to be heavy . The good news is that duffel manufacturers have gotten creative with designing bags that can be carried in a multitude of ways. Below are the main carrying options, and some fully featured bags offer all four. Backpack Straps For those who are able to throw their bag over their back and walk with it, backpack straps are our preferred carrying method. Many of the high-end bags on this list have backpack straps that are lightly padded and often removable. One duffel in particular, the Osprey Transporter , has many similarities to an actual backpack and is great for those planning to cover longer distances. Keep in mind that carrying comfort does vary, which is one reason why some bags are ranked higher than others. When not in use, many backpack straps simply detach for storage in the main compartment (this keeps them out of airport conveyor belts). Sometimes, simply tightening down the straps flush to the bag can be enough.

Shoulder Straps Though less comfortable than backpack straps over extended periods, a single shoulder strap is a quick way to carry your duffel short distances. In particular, we like shoulder straps on smaller duffels that don’t weigh a ton (they can start to get uncomfortable around the popular 60-liter range). Not all duffel bags come with shoulder straps, but we see them frequently on smaller capacity, travel-specific bags. Shoulder straps usually are removable, allowing you to streamline your duffel for transport. Carry Handles Most duffels have carry handles of some sort, whether they’re dedicated straps or a simple padded handle connecting the backpack straps to each other. Carry handles are useful for picking up a bag and moving it a short distance, and they’re great for carrying small capacity bags in one hand. Some duffels like the Osprey Transporter omit carry handles altogether­ in favor of shoulder and backpack straps. This can make sense for big, heavy bags, but we still prefer having the option.

Grab Handles Grab handles often are located on the ends or sides of a bag and sit close to the surface. Similar to carry handles, they are used to quickly lift or slide a duffel. Having a grab handle on each side is convenient when moving the bag around (think about grabbing it from the overhead bin of an airplane or the storage compartment on the bottom of a bus). We love grab handles: They are one the reasons that duffels are so versatile and easy to move around.

  Durability (Denier)

We reference durability frequently in this article—everyone wants their investment to last. The most common way of measuring fabric strength is denier (D), and the higher the rating, the tougher the fabric will be. All deniers are not created equal, but this gives you a general idea of how two duffels stack up to each other in terms of toughness. When available, we’ve included the denier rating of each bag in our handy comparison table above, which range from 1000-denier for a bag like The North Face Base Camp down to 300-denier for the Backcountry All Around. It’s worth noting that the manufacturers sometimes provide two numbers, which refer to the different panels (usually the highest number is the bottom of the bag that is exposed to the ground, whereas the lower number are the sides and top). This number may not be the definitive factor in your buying decision, but it certainly can help tip the scales when choosing between two close competitors.  

Duffels advertised as “water-resistant” are designed to keep your belongings protected from light rain and soggy ground. These models often cover their durable ripstop fabric with a laminate that keeps moisture from soaking in (often a DWR treatment or something similar). A DWR treatment certainly is a nice feature for everyone using a duffel: The weather is unpredictable when traveling, you never know when your duffel might be sitting on the tarmac for a few extra minutes, and it’s super helpful for outdoor use. In addition, some bags have flaps covering the zippers, which can be a point of weakness. Water-resistant gear does have limitations: It should work well in light-to-moderate precipitation but eventually will soak through. 

As mentioned above, a few duffels on this list take it a step further. The Yeti Panga and SealLine WideMouth are both built with waterproof fabrics. With a fully waterproof zippered seal, the Yeti can even be submerged, and the SealLine's roll-top does a decent job as well (no guarantees, but your stuff should stay dry). On the other hand, most duffels with vinyl or laminate finishes (such as the Patagonia Black Hole) will keep your gear dry in a rainstorm, but their zippers and seams might leak with sustained exposure to moisture. All things considered, a waterproof duffel is essential for water sports but overkill for travelers who stick to land.  

Some travelers may not care about the weight of their duffel, but for others it’s a factor, and particularly with heavier rolling models. Most non-wheeled duffels weigh just a few pounds or less, which makes them easy to carry, throw in your car, and store when not in use. Rolling duffels, on the other hand, tend to get a bit heavy. For example, The North Face Base Camp Voyager Roller weighs 9 pounds 7 ounces empty for the 94-liter version, which already accounts for almost 20% of the standard 50-pound limit for checked bags. And the Osprey Sojourn Shuttle 100L weighs 8 pounds 9.6 ounces but has a larger capacity at 100 liters (and comes in a massive 130-liter version). We can tell you that a loaded Sojourn Shuttle with things like shoes can get awfully close to the 50 pounds—we’ve been in the high 40s on a number of occasions. It’s also worth noting that a 45-pound bag isn’t the easiest to get in and out of your car or up a flight of stairs.

Packability

Packability won't be high on the priority list for most travelers, but there are a few instances in which a streamlined duffel can come in handy. For those who anticipate coming home with more than they started—or vice versa—being able to stow an empty duffel in another bag is a great way to consolidate your load. A few of the picks above pack into a stuff pocket or included packing cube, including the REI Co-op Roadtripper 100 and Patagonia Black Hole 55. However, it's worth noting that these options are still quite bulky—if you need a more minimalist design, check out a model like the Osprey Ultralight Stuff Duffel . Ultra-packable duffels do come with their fair share of tradeoffs—including less durable fabrics, a floppy structure, and typically small capacities—so we only recommend them for those who specifically need the more streamlined design. Back to Our Top Duffel Bag Picks   Back to Our Duffel Bag Comparison Table

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10 top-rated duffel bags in every style: rolling, backpack & more.

Find the best duffel bag for your travel style.

The 10 Best Travel Duffel Bags

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Duffel bags can be used for a wide variety of activities and trips, making them an ideal piece of luggage for travelers.

While duffel bags are convenient for quick travels such as overnight business trips and weekend getaways with your partner , many are big enough for a week or two away. Of course, duffel bags are also convenient for everyday use at the gym, kids' sporting events and the like.

U.S. News compiled this list of the best travel duffel bags based on consumer recommendations. Read on to find the best duffel bag for your travel needs as well as answers to common questions about this type of suitcase.

• Best Overall Travel Duffel Bag:  Patagonia Black Hole Duffel Bag 55L
• Best Duffel Bag for Men:  Thule Chasm

Best Women's Duffel Bag: Vera Bradley Large Travel Duffel Bag

• Best Rolling Duffel Bag:  The North Face Rolling Thunder – 22" Roller
• Best Carry-on Duffel Bag:   Away The Everywhere Bag
• Best Waterproof Duffel Bag:  YETI Panga 50L Waterproof Duffel
• Best Duffel Bag Backpack:  REI Co-op Big Haul 40 Recycled Duffel

Best Small Duffel Bag: Dagne Dover Landon Carryall Bag

Best large duffel bag: l.l. bean adventure duffle, extra-large.

• Best Packable Duffel Bag: Gonex Packable Travel Duffle Bag  

(Note: Prices and availability were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to supply chain issues.)

Best Overall Travel Duffel Bag: Patagonia Black Hole Duffel Bag 55L

Courtesy of Patagonia

Highly rated by travelers, the Patagonia Black Hole Duffel Bag 55L weighs less than 3 pounds, has a 55-liter capacity and is made from 100% recycled polyester ripstop fabric. The weather-resistant bag has a convenient open main compartment with a top zipper and padded base; it features a zippered side pocket accessible from the inside or outside. This product also has padded, detachable shoulder straps that allow it to convert into a backpack .

Reviewers comment that the bag's size is perfect for weekend or weeklong trips, with many calling it the best travel bag on the market. Because it's so popular, this travel duffel bag tends to sell out, but Patagonia and other retailers typically restock it and allow interested buyers to sign up for waitlists. The Black Hole line also includes a smaller 40-liter size and two larger bags – with a capacity of 70 liters and 100 liters – for extended vacations or camping trips .

Price: $169 or less. Shop now: Patagonia | REI | Backcountry

Best Duffel Bag for Men: Thule Chasm

Courtesy of Thule

The Thule Chasm is rugged enough for the woods, yet sleek enough for the office. Available in four trendy colors (think olive green and burnt orange), the weather-resistant bag can be used as a duffel or carried as a backpack and features plenty of interior organization.

The Thule Chasm duffel is available in four sizes – 40, 70, 90 and 130 liters – to suit your travel needs and, regardless of size, can expand with the use of its external compression straps. Recent buyers say this travel duffel bag is good for everything from road trips to the overhead bin; they also appreciate how easy it is to store the bag (in an accompanying case) when not in use.

Price for 130L: $179.95 or less. Shop now: Thule

Courtesy of Vera Bradley

With thousands of five-star reviews, Vera Bradley's Large Travel Duffel Bag remains a tried-and-true duffel bag for women. The soft, 50-liter bag is available in black or navy microfiber (for those who aren't keen on the traditional paisley patterns ) and even more solid colors in recycled cotton . This women's duffel bag comes with a detachable padded shoulder strap, one zippered and three open side pockets, and a zippered closure. Inside, three mesh pockets keep small items like cosmetics and jewelry organized and easily accessible.

The bag is also machine-washable in cold water using a gentle cycle, and it conveniently folds flat for storage. What's more, you can personalize your duffel with a monogram or whimsical design.

Price: $140 or less. Shop now: Vera Bradley | Amazon

Read: The Top Weekender Bags for Women

Best Rolling Duffel Bag: The North Face Rolling Thunder – 22" Roller

Courtesy of The North Face

This 40-liter-capacity bag weighs less than 8 pounds and is the perfect rolling duffel bag for travelers who don't feel like lugging anything over their shoulder. Its design features larger wheels and wheel wells for better traction, as well as a strengthened handle and back panel. Reviews of this rolling duffel bag say it's sturdier than a traditional duffel and mention that the bag rolls smoothly.

The North Face's durable Base Camp material combined with nylon makes this product suitable for rougher wear and tear; plastic bumpers on the wear points also help protect the fabric. There's an interior mesh pocket, two zippered pockets outside, and an additional external compartment for wet or dirty items or clothes. It's available in black and military olive/black, as well as larger (30- or 36-liter) sizes .

Price: $270 or less. Shop now: The North Face

Read: The Top Rolling Duffel Bags

Best Carry-on Duffel Bag: Away The Everywhere Bag

Courtesy of Away

There couldn't be a more fitting name for this bag that is, indeed, perfect for going everywhere. With a 20-liter capacity and weighing less than 3 pounds, The Everywhere Bag by Away is ideal to use as a carry-on duffel bag or personal item (it fits under the seat) for air travel. This product is also convenient for overnight visits and weekend getaways – or longer, depending how you pack. Its sleek design makes it a nice bag to tote to the office, too.

This carry-on duffel bag can store all of your necessary in-flight items with a 15-inch laptop pocket, zippered and slip pockets inside, and an open interior that will accommodate a comfy wrap or travel pillow . It's designed with a trolley sleeve to fit over the handle of another carry-on bag or checked luggage, and it also has an adjustable and removable shoulder strap. The water-resistant nylon travel bag is available in several colors with leather trim. Fans of the bag remark that it's sleek, timeless and very spacious. If you're looking for more room, however, upgrade to The Medium Everywhere Bag or The Large Everywhere Bag .

Price: $195 or less. Shop now: Away

Read: The Top Carry-on Backpacks

Best Waterproof Duffel Bag: YETI Panga 50L Waterproof Duffel

Courtesy of YETI

This fully submersible duffel will be your go-to bag whether you're planning a big offshore fishing trip, heading to Antarctica or camping in a rainforest during your next adventure. No matter how wet you get – on the boat or on land – buyers say your gear will stay 100% dry thanks to the bag's waterproof molded landing pad, laminated high-density nylon and HydroLok Zipper. The 50-liter YETI bag, weighing in at about 5 pounds, also features lash points for carrying options. It's available in storm gray and tan, as well as larger sizes: 75-liter or 100-liter .

Price: $300 or less. Shop now: Amazon | YETI | DICK'S Sporting Goods

Best Duffel Bag Backpack: REI Co-op Big Haul 40 Recycled Duffel

Courtesy of REI

This versatile bag is made of durable recycled ripstop nylon and features an even more rugged recycled ballistic nylon base. It's large enough to accommodate belongings for a trip of several days. Recent buyers mention that they like the classic design and use the REI Co-op Big Haul duffel as both a gym bag and a work tote. Carry this bag as a duffel or use the stowable back straps to convert it to a backpack. The lightweight travel duffel bag weighs approximately 2 pounds and comes in four colors.

Price: $109 or less. Shop now: REI

Courtesy of Dagne Dover

While this small duffel bag comes in a variety of sizes, the medium, large or extra-large sizes of the Landon Carryall Bag by Dagne Dover are most ideal for overnights and weekend escapes . The compact design makes it easy to store this 100% vegan bag in the overhead bin or even under the seat on the plane. The bag also features a neoprene trolley sleeve so you can easily plop it on top of other luggage.

Other features include a laptop sleeve (sizes vary by bag), interior and exterior pockets for essentials such as your passport holder and phone, a dust bag for shoes , and a leash for keys. Buyers appreciate all the features of this bag, especially its versatility for travel and everyday use.

Price for XL: $245 or less. Shop now: Dagne Dover

If you're looking for a big bag to hold a few weeks' worth of clothing (and then some), the L.L. Bean Adventure Duffle might be your newest travel companion. The extra-large size measures 17 x 34 x 15 inches and has a 139-liter capacity – versus the small, 19-liter version, which is 9 x 18 x 9 – and features comfortable hand and shoulder straps plus an exterior zippered pocket. It's also waterproof.

Reviewers say this travel duffel bag is so big that they've been able to pack their entire family's belongings in it and have also used it for monthlong trips; some even note that the bag has lasted decades. This duffel bag comes in a variety of colors, and monogramming is available for an additional fee. If you're looking for a large duffel bag with wheels, check out the Extra-Large Adventure Rolling Duffle Bag by L.L. Bean .

Price: $89.95 or less. Shop now: L.L. Bean

Best Packable Duffel Bag: Gonex Packable Travel Duffle Bag

If you're looking for a foldable duffel bag that you can put in your checked luggage and fill with souvenirs you acquire on your trip (or even just dirty laundry), check out the Gonex Packable Travel Duffle Bag. The duffel bag can be neatly folded and packed into an included pouch for easy storage on the go and at home. This thin yet tough bag features external zippered pockets, a detachable shoulder strap and a compartment for shoes, making it a good everyday duffel bag as well.

Reviewers agree you can't beat the value of this Gonex bag, which is available in 40-, 60- and 80-liter sizes.

Price for 80L: $44.99 or less. Shop now: Amazon

Frequently Asked Questions

The duffel bag is a piece of oblong luggage typically carried over the shoulder and used for short trips. It's often used as a catchall for sports gear as well – think dance class, tennis practice, etc. Invented in the town of Duffel in Flanders, Belgium , in the 17th century and made of a woven cloth later known as canvas, duffel luggage has since evolved to incorporate a variety of materials and features including wheels and backpack straps. Duffel bags also come in many shapes and sizes, including small, stylish options known as weekender bags .

Yes, you can carry your duffel bag on to the plane provided it meets airline carry-on size restrictions and can fit in the overhead bin.

Yes, you can check a duffel bag as long as it meets weight restrictions for checked baggage . Check your airline's rules ahead of your trip.

Unless your duffel bag can meet airline size restrictions for personal items and fit under the seat, it will count toward your carry-on allowance and you'll need to store it in the overhead bin or check it (for free) at the gate. If you're looking for a duffel bag that fits under the seat, The Everywhere Bag by Away and Dagne Dover Landon Carryall Bag are both good options.

You can buy duffel bags through sporting outfitters (online or in store), luggage retailers and, of course, Amazon.

When choosing the best duffel bag for your needs, travel experts recommend taking these features into consideration:

• Ease of transport:  Some duffel bags can be clunky and heavy. That's why Andrew Zimmern, the host of Magnolia Network series "Family Dinner" and goodwill ambassador to the United Nations' World Food Programme, prefers a duffel bag with wheels . "I'm an adventure traveler and am often in several environments and ecosystems on just one trip," he says. "I like a rolling duffel bag to easily navigate airports, sidewalks and curbs."
• Organization:  Zimmern says it's also nice to have adjustable interior panels that keep gear organized. "I appreciate that once it's organized, it's secure, and it stays consolidated within the customized 'bins' inside my bag." And external compartments are just as important. "I also prefer a bag that has external pockets so I can easily access aspirin or headphones if I've packed just the one bag," he adds.
• Size:  Samantha Brown, host and creator of PBS series "Samantha Brown's Places to Love," has a list of features she looks for in the perfect duffel bag. "I prefer a duffel to be personal item-size so I can always pair it with my carry-on bag. I especially am looking for a trolley sleeve on the back to connect it to my luggage, which is a rare feature to find."
• Style:  "For me, a duffel needs to have handles as well as an adjustable luggage strap. It also needs to have some structure to it. My pet peeve is an amorphous bag that collapses as you are  trying to pack , unpack or find things," Brown says.

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Tags: Travel , Travel Gear

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9 Best Duffel Bags for Your Next Vacation, According to Testing

These versatile bags are ideal for road trips and air travel alike.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

The Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab tests all types of travel bags, including travel backpacks , underseat luggage and suitcases . We test their durability by assessing abrasion resistance, drop testing, water resistance and more. Lab analysts also pack each bag to see how much it can hold and rate the ease of packing. We also consider the weight and strap padding to find the most comfortable bags. Whether you prefer a small weekender style or a rolling duffel, GH experts tested a variety of styles in the Lab and reviewed hundreds more online to make these selections. These duffel bag picks include top-tested styles as well as picks from brands that have previously impressed us in Lab testing.

Our top picks:

Best Overall Duffel Bag

Patagonia black hole duffel bag 55l.

Best Value Duffel Bag

Herschel novel duffel bag.

Best Duffel Bag for Road Trips

Vera bradley cotton large travel duffel bag.

Best Weekender Duffel Bag

Lo & sons the catalina deluxe.

Best Versatile Duffel Bag

Away f.a.r duffle 55l.

Best Adventure Duffel Bag

Eagle creek migrate duffel bag.

Best Duffel Bag with Wheels

L.l.bean large adventure rolling duffle bag.

Best Duffel Bag for Kids

Pottery barn kids mackenzie rainbow heart duffel.

Best Gym Duffel Bag

Puma evercat candidate duffel.

After shopping our top duffel bag picks for your trip, keep reading to learn more about our testing protocols and shopping tips from fiber science experts.

Patagonia has been a top-performing brand in the Textiles Lab for many years with its durable bags and winter coats . The Black Hole Duffel is a popular bag with its sturdy top straps, side handles, a longer shoulder strap and the option to wear it as a backpack for easy toting. With reinforced exposed daisy chains on the side, you can hook on all types of gear. GH analysts especially love that t his whole duffel can actually compress into a small bag , taking up very little space when not in use. Note that the Black Hole duffel is water-resistant, but not entirely waterproof. This pick also comes in a wheeled version , too. Patagonia also has a renowned commitment to sustainability , offering a trade-in program and a shopping interface for used items.

Herschel bags and backpacks have impressed GH analysts by featuring durable materials with simple designs, making them versatile enough to take to the gym or use as a weekender. This duffel bag aced Lab testing. The bottom kept its shape as we packed it making it easy to load and unload, and it showed no signs of wear after abrasion testing. The separate shoe compartment held two pairs of shoes in testing or it could be used to keep dirty clothes separate. GH analysts found the synthetic leather handles comfortable to grip and appreciated the padding on the shoulder strap. However, the plastic hooks for the shoulder straps were not so sturdy. One tester said a hook broke after extensive use.

Vera Bradley duffels come in the brand's classic paisley designs as well as other bright colors and bold patterns. In our tests, we appreciated just how spacious this duffel is. It was able to hold every item in our packing test plus more. Testers liked the flexible fabric that made it easy to shove in the trunk of a car but did note that items shifted around inside the duffel. To keep things where you want them, there are multiple zippered pockets that keep items easily accessible . Reviewers rave that they've had these bags for years and they've stayed in pristine condition long-term. The side handles are long enough that you can also wear them over the shoulder. This pick is made with 100% cotton fabric, and while it's not as durable and nylon or polyester, it didn't show any changes in appearance during our abrasion testing. We do wish that it had a trolley strap so it could easily sit on top of a suitcase.

Lo & Sons The Catalina Deluxe

This classic duffel from Lo & Sons is perfect for a weekend trip as it has a separate shoe compartment and a spacious interior to hold everything you'll need. This bag is available in both canvas and 600D recycled polyester, depending on which style you prefer. With two sizes available, the site has excellent reference images to show what the bags look like when people of different heights and shapes wear them . For a more luxurious option, one GH analyst especially loves the brand's O.G. 2 Bag for being extremely easy to clean by just using a wet wipe.

Away recently launched new adventure travel products with its F.A.R. line. GH analysts especially liked the F.A.R Convertible Backpack and this duffel. Both styles have the option to carry it like a duffel or wear it as a backpack with comfortable padded straps . The large interior held everything in our packing tests and built-in compression straps kept items in place. There are two small zippered pockets — one on the outside and the other inside. We like that it has both top handles and smaller side handles, making it easier to put in a car or the overhead bin. (The smaller 40L version is carry-on compliant!) There are also exterior daisy chains to easily attach extra gear and a side trolley strap to help it sit on top of a suitcase. Analysts did note that the zippers are quite noisy when opening and closing.

Eagle Creek continues to impress us by offering durable travel items that last year after year, including the brand's signature packing cubes . One GH analyst especially loves Eagle Creek duffels for how well the material holds up even after being tossed around. Most duffels are prone to their contents shifting, but the outside compression straps on the Migrate help keep all your items perfectly in place . It features a more sustainable bottom material coating that was developed by harvesting windshield plastics from landfills, though we found it felt a bit waxy and did show some marks. It is a very structured bag and keeps its shape for easy packing. The larger tabs on the zippers are convenient for comfortable opening/closing. There are large top handles as well as smaller handles on all sides, so it's easy to maneuver.

If you prefer to roll your bag but still want the option to pick it up and carry it over your shoulder, a rolling duffel is perfect. This pick from L.L.Bean is available in eight colors with options for monograms, making this a great gift too. It has top handles and smaller side handles for easy lifting. The shoulder strap can be attached when you want to carry it but should be removed when rolling. GH analysts like the less structured fabric that's ideal for overpackers to fit as much as possible . The straps attach together to tighten it, so items don't shift around inside. With all the ways to carry it and the massive interior, this is a great pick for family travel.

This Pottery Barn Kids duffel makes a great gift with monogram options and fun designs , including this rainbow design and a dinosaur print. Not only do they feature fun, playful patterns, but these duffels also hold up to heavy use. GH analysts have tested all types of luggage from PBK and continue to be impressed by the durable materials. Lexie Sachs , Executive Director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab, uses these duffels with her kids and especially loves how easy they are to pack. The brand offers a ton of pieces to complete the set including packing cubes , backpacks , lunch boxes , toiletry bags , rolling suitcases and more.

A gym bag has to hold everything you need without being too bulky — this PUMA bag is up to the challenge. Its amazing organizational design features zippered pockets and a separate shoe compartment to keep smelly sneakers and dirty gym clothes separate. Available in 18 styles, it's made with polyester and is machine washable . While we haven't yet tested this style in Lab, we have tested a variety of products from PUMA and found they are a great value for the affordable price. This bag has over 30,000 rave Amazon reviews and costs less than $30!

How we test duffel bags

The Good Housekeeping Institute has been testing travel products (including duffel bags) for decades. GH analysts tested duffels using standardized test methods and state-of-the-art lab equipment. We also sent duffel bags to testers to use when traveling. Here is how we evaluate duffels:

✔️ Size and weight: Each duffel bag is weighed when empty since online specs aren't always accurate or listed. GH analysts assess the bag's size and construction to determine what it's best suited for. If it's designed to be a personal item or a carry-on, we measure it to ensure it complies with the dimension restrictions of common airlines.

✔️ Abrasion resistance: Swatches of fabric are cut from the luggage and loaded into our abrasion machine, which rubs the fabric over an abrasive material 15,000 times before being graded for signs of wear. A GH analyst is seen here setting up abrasion resistance testing.

✔️ Packing capabilities: Our analysts pack each piece of luggage using a standard load with real items like clothing, shoes, toiletries and more. In this process, we rate the ease of opening and closing the zippers, ease of accessing the compartments and how much of our load actually fits inside.

✔️ Comfort: When the bag is fully packed, we carry it to rate the comfort of the handles and straps. GH analysts also test each bag's features like convertible backpack straps as seen here to rate the ease of use and comfort.

✔️ Consumer testing: Testers use each duffel on vacations and trips to give feedback on the comfort of the straps and handles, ease of packing and more. Testers have brought these duffels on road trips, cruises, international flights and more!

What to look for when shopping for the best duffel bag

✔️ Material: Most duffels are made with either nylon or polyester. Nylon is a very popular synthetic fiber for softside luggage as it's durable and can withstand abrasion. Polyester is a more affordable synthetic option that's lighter in weight than nylon but is generally slightly less durable.

✔️ Denier: Oftentimes, the denier of the fabric may be listed, which is a unit of measurement used to determine the fiber thickness of individual threads or filaments used in the fabric. The higher the denier, the stronger the fabric tends to be.

✔️ Wheels: If you struggle carrying heavy loads, opt for a duffel with wheels. Because of the bulky wheels, rolled duffels cannot be as easily stored as ones without wheels.

✔️ Capacity: When shopping for a duffel, look for the capacity of the bag, which is usually listed in liters. The larger the capacity, the bigger the bag. Compare the dimensions to the airline restrictions for personal items and carry-ons to ensure a smooth boarding experience. Around 30 L is great for weekend trips while 50-70 L is better suited for a week-long trip.

✔️ Carrying options: Some duffels feature convertible options, so you can carry it with a crossbody strap or wear it as a backpack. Many testers especially appreciated the backpack carrying option!

✔️ Pockets and organization: Most duffels feature one main top zipper with a large internal compartment for packing. Testers especially liked when duffels had a separate zippered compartment for shoes and an easily accessible front pocket for must-have travel items.

Should I use a duffel as a carry-on or a personal item when flying?

Duffels can make a great personal item or carry-on when flying. However, it's important to note the duffel's dimensions to ensure that it complies with the airline's listed size restrictions. If you plan on using a duffel as a personal item, we recommend ensuring that it has a back luggage strap and pairing it with a rolling suitcase for easy toting in the airport. Because duffels feature fabric on all sides, they can be squished more easily in overhead bins and underneath the seat in front of you — this also makes duffels super popular for road trips too!

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

Emma Seymour is a senior textiles product analyst in the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab. She’s been at Good Housekeeping for over three years, testing all types of travel products including suitcases, packing cubes and backpacks. She tested a variety of duffels for this story in Lab. She has a degree in Fiber Science and Apparel Design from Cornell University.

Emma Seymour (she/her) is a senior product analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she has led testing for luggage, pillows, towels, tampons and more since 2018. She graduated from Cornell University with a bachelor of science in fiber science and apparel design and a minor in gerontology, completing research in the Body Scanner Lab on optimizing activewear for athletic performance. 

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7 Best duffel bags of all time

W ith the space of a suitcase and the portability of a backpack, duffel bags are the perfect travel companions. Smart travelers looking for a multipurpose bag will love these.

There is a duffel bag available for every type of journey, with options ranging from stylish, fashion-forward designs to durable, adventure-ready builds. This guide presents a selection of the top seven duffel bags available, assessed according to their design, durability, and functionality.

Duffel bags can significantly impact how you pack and travel, whether you are going on a brief business trip, a weekend escape, or a global adventure.

7 Duffel bags one must have in the collection

1) monos metro carry-all duffel bags.

You can find this vegan leather duffel bag on Monos.com for $260. The product merges style and functionality, offered in four fashionable colors. The vegan leather material ages gracefully with time. The bag features a roomy interior and efficient organization, which helps avoid messiness while traveling.

With a capacity of 27.3 liters, this bag weighs 4.14 pounds. It is ideal for those who want a stylish bag that also serves a practical purpose; it will keep all the travel essentials organized and within easy reach.

2) July Carry All Weekender

For $195, you can purchase a nylon duffel bag that is water-resistant and ideal for crowded areas from the July website. This bag comes with a compact design and weighs 2.2 pounds, providing a 28-liter capacity.

The bag is equipped with an internal laptop sleeve, compartments for small items, and a pass-through band for securing it to roll luggage. The QuickPass pocket uses a magnet to secure items, eliminating the need for zippers. Despite its small size, this bag is effective for brief journeys.

3) Dagne Dover Lagos Convertible Duffle Bag

This versatile polyester duffel bag is available for purchase at $305 on its official website and can be converted into a crossbody or backpack . It is tailored for travelers who prioritize adaptability. The item weighs slightly more than 2 pounds with a capacity of 32 liters.

The interior is roomy, equipped with pockets for organization, and meets personal item size regulations for flights. The bag is water-resistant, guaranteeing that your items remain dry regardless of the weather conditions.

4) Calpak Luka Duffel Bag

When you visit Calpaktravel.com, you can buy the Calpak Luka for $128. Those who place a premium on their footwear will appreciate this duffel bag's water-resistant polyester construction and its unique shoe compartment.

The 22-liter capacity duffel bag is 2.1 pounds heavy. This bag comes in a variety of colors to suit any style and has multiple interior pockets for organization, making it ideal for short journeys.

5) Yeti Crossroads Duffel Bag

The sturdy duffel bag is available for $250 on Yeti.com. Made from durable TuffSkin nylon, it is created to tackle the challenges of travel. The bag weighs 4.3 pounds, and has a capacity of 60 liters.

The item includes a protective lower shell, inner partitions, and multiple compartments for effective organization . Although durable, it maintains a stylish and practical design suitable for extended trips.

6) Gonex Canvas Duffel Bag

At $40, this cotton canvas duffel bag is a value deal from the company's online store. It can hold 50 liters of liquid and weighs 2.8 pounds. With five outside zippered pockets and two inside slip pockets, this bag has plenty of space to store your belongings.

The durable material and comfortable carrying options make it a versatile choice for various travel requirements. Offered in multiple colors, it attracts a diverse group of travelers.

7) Thule Chasm Sport Duffel Bag

The Thule Chasm Sport, priced at $153 on Amazon, has a waterproof tarpaulin exterior. It weighs 4.4 pounds and has a capacity of 90 liters. The bag does not have external pockets, but its roomy interior features a packing cube for extra organization.

Convenient to transport using handles or backpack straps , these duffel bags can be a dependable choice for explorers and extended journeys, guaranteeing the safety of your equipment in any weather.

Selecting duffel bags involves more than just choosing a bag; it entails finding a travel companion that suits the requirements of your journey. Each bag, such as the Monos Metro Carry-All and the Yeti Crossroads, provides distinct features and functions tailored to various travel situations.

Duffel bags are available to meet your preferences for fashion, versatility, or durability. Choosing the correct duffel bag ensures you have a dependable companion for your travels, combining style, space, and practicality. When planning your next trip, consider these top picks to make sure your travels are smooth and pleasant.

12 Travel Garment Bags to Look Good Everywhere

Be wrinkle-free everywhere you go

Every product on this page was chosen by a Harper's BAZAAR editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

But choosing the best travel garment bag for your needs can be a challenge. There are a lot of options on the market, so we asked an expert about how to find the right one. According to Tumi creative director Victor Sanz, “Your garment bag should be sturdy, functional, and sleek. If you’re frequently traveling by plane, a garment bag that folds to fit carry-on requirements is essential.” He adds, “You want to find the size that will fit all your clothes without having to overfold them and will allow you to reach your destination in style.”

Best Quilted Garment Bag

Mz wallace michael garment bag.

Best Luxury Garment Bag

Tumi alpha garment bag trifold carry-on.

Best Garment Duffel

Halfday the garment duffel.

Best Timeless Garment Bag

Longchamp boxford garment bag.

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Calpak packable garment bag.

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Amazon basics premium garment bag.

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Hartmann metropolitan two-garment sleeve.

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Mark & graham commuter 2-in-1 garment bag.

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Samsonite ascella 3.0 softside expandable luggage.

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Stitch ultimate garment bag.

It’s also important to consider bonus features, like pockets and organizational compartments, and, as Sanz notes, “A crucial function is to ensure that you’re able to hang your garment bag when you arrive at your destination, so that you can prepare your outfits as easily as possible and to ensure that all your clothes are crisp.” Keeping all this in mind, we found the 12 best travel garment bags out there today. Once you start using one of these, you’re never going to go back.

MZ Wallace’s signature quilting isn’t limited to the brand’s totes, appearing here in garment bag form. The thin design is extremely lightweight, ideal for quick trips when you need to bring one to three outfits. There is even an exterior pocket for bonus storage.

Dimensions: 22" × 3" × 39"

Materials: Oxford, leather

What reviewers are saying: “I have been interested in a MZ Wallace garment bag for a while. It is perfect! Just right proportions and size. Thoughtful design and construction details.”

Tumi always delivers premium luggage that will last you over a decade, and this garment bag is no exception. Sanz says: “It’s foldable, with a sturdy handle for easy carrying, making it convenient and compact for every type of travel. I also love that it has several zipper pockets, so I can pack my toiletries and other travel essentials all in one bag. When I arrive at my destination, I hang it in the closet and I know that I will be ready to go.”

Dimensions: 15" x 22" x 6"

Materials: Ballistic nylon

What reviewers are saying: “This bag stores so much for a carry on. I was able to comfortably fit 2 suits and more for a destination wedding!”

This duffel has been receiving high praise ever since its release. A few of the reasons it’s so popular: The duffel is carry-on friendly, water-resistant, and has interior and exterior pockets. And those are only a few of its distinguishing features. Choose an original or compact size for the style that suits your needs.

Dimensions: 22" x 12" x 12"

Materials: Polyester

What reviewers are saying: “The Garment Duffel is a great purchase, especially for anyone in an industry that takes short frequent trips. I was actually able fit quite a bit more clothes than I had anticipated. Took the bag to work and my company bought 20 of them to give to customers. Great purchase.”

Longchamp’s iconic nylon and leather trim takes on a garment bag silhouette. The two-tone design exudes sophistication, with practical touches like a top carry handle, built-in hanger, and front zip pocket.

Dimensions: 23.25" x 41.25"

Materials: Nylon, leather

What reviewers are saying: “I bought this as a gift for my boyfriend who travels a lot and needed a nice garment bag particularly for his suits. This bag is perfect! It fits his suit as well as a few extra shirts. The fabric is an amazing, durable quality, and the leather details make this product look incredible.”

This garment bag is actually designed to fit inside of your carry-on, rather than serving as a stand-alone piece. The water-resistant exterior protects against spills, and exterior zip pockets hold small accessories. It gets the job done, while taking up the least possible amount of space.

Dimensions: 40" x 19"

What reviewers are saying: “I use this bag when I need to workout at work. I go from a suit to athleticwear in minutes.”

Looking for an affordable option that is available ASAP? Amazon’s garment bag holds up to three suits or dresses and boasts multiple zipper compartments.

Dimensions: 40" x 4" x 20.5"

What reviewers are saying: “I bought this bag in 2019 and it has held up incredibly well since then, performs all functions advertised at a great price value. I have taken it on many flights, buses and train rides and have never had an issue with fitting it in the overhead bin on both longer-haul flights and short budget-airline carriers.”

Hartmann’s garment bag adds contemporary touches to an otherwise traditional design. The result? A chic, useful travel accessory that will stand the test of time. The padded shoulder strap and multiple interior pockets enhance the convenience of this style.

Materials: Nylon

What reviewers are saying: “Hartmann was an anniversary gift from my work place, and I am still proud to own it 35 years later.”

Mark & Graham Commuter 2-in-1 Garment Bag

Another convertible duffel, but this time with a personalized touch. That’s right—Mark & Graham lets you monogram your duffel. With a plethora of zippered and snap interior and exterior pockets, this bag gets creative with its storage solutions.

Dimensions: 22" x 10" x 10"

This spinner-style garment bag makes navigating a chaotic airport easy. The ergonomic design has expandable capabilities, as well as various compartments, a hanger bracket, and a pocket for liquids.

Dimensions: 20.5" x 24" x 9.5"

What reviewers are saying: “It’s easy to maneuver and overall great quality and very neat design (many compartments and zippered areas).”

For golfers and non-golfers alike, Stitch makes a duffel that is water- and stain-resistant, and includes a hanger hook, shoulder strap, elastic shoe pockets, and webbed handles. You can even get it customized with your initials.

Dimensions: 22.5" x 11.5" x 12"

What reviewers are saying: “Love it! Fits into the airplane overhead bin, no trouble bringing it along as a carry-on bag. Very sturdy, zippers are tough enough. Shoulder strap is removable. My suit arrived in top shape using this garment bag. Highly recommended.”

Ralph Lauren Leather-Trim Hybrid Garment Duffel

Ralph Lauren’s duffel design is the epitome of understated elegance. An accompanying shoulder strap makes it easy to carry around.

Dimensions: 15" x 21.5" x 9"

Materials: Polyester, leather

Gucci Savoy Garment Bag

Embrace the bold luxury aesthetic with a Gucci bag covered in the house’s monogram. Containing a big compartment with a hanger and two zip pockets, this garment bag will hold all your essentials.

Dimensions: 21.5" x 16.1" x 6.7"

Materials: Canvas, leather, cotton

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This Lightweight Duffel Bag Is Your Ultimate Travel Companion: Order Now

Level up your traveling game with this CalPak Stevyn Duffel Bag, which helps you stay organized and makes traveling easy. 

By Lilian Gonzalez

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Stevyn duffel bag with shoe compartment.

The bag retails for $112, but you can get it on sale for $95.29 for a limited time.

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For more product recommendations , click here to learn more about the best traveling gear for spring and summer trips, alternative 2-in-1 duffle bags , and luggage sets for all your vacation needs.

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Elektrostal, Russia

Region: Moscow Oblast

Geographic coordinates: 55.783300, 38.466700, temperature range: -40.0°c to 30.0°c (-40°f to 86°f), climate: cold and snowy winters, mild summers with occasional heat waves., population: 158508, language: russian.

Elektrostal, Located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, Is a city known for its industrial heritage and diverse economy. With a population of around 150, 000 people, It lies approximately 50 kilometers east of Moscow. Founded in 1916 as an industrial center for steel and metal production, Elektrostal’s most notable landmark is the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant (EMZ). The plant produces various steel products including railway wheels, Pipes, Wire rod, And sheet metal. Apart from its industrial significance, Elektrostal offers several cultural attractions that are worth visiting.

The Museum-Estate Kuskovo features an impressive collection of art and artifacts from the 18th century. Lake Senezh – a large freshwater lake outside Elektrostal’s city limits – provides opportunities for swimming, Boating or fishing during summer months. Elektrostal also has several parks where visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking or cycling. Gorky Park features walking paths along with sports facilities like tennis courts and basketball courts. Public transport within Elektrostal itself is convenient with numerous bus routes connecting different parts within the city limits as well as nearby towns like Noginsk or Dmitrovskiy Districts in Moscow Region.

Overall Elektrostal offers visitors an interesting mix of industrial heritage, Cultural attractions and natural beauty making it definitely worth a visit whether you’re interested in learning about Russia’s steel industry or simply want to enjoy the outdoors.

Important Landmarks

• The Museum of Local Lore – it showcases the history and culture of the town.
• The Church of St. Nicholas – a beautiful Orthodox church built in the 19th century.
• Victory Park – a large park with several monuments dedicated to World War II heroes.
• Ice Palace Vityaz – a modern ice arena that hosts various sports events and concerts.
• Elektrostal Central Park – a popular spot for picnics, walking, and outdoor activities.
• The Monument to Soviet Soldiers – located in Victory Square, it honors soldiers who died during World War II.
• Elektrostal History Museum – displays artifacts from ancient times to present day including photographs, documents, paintings etc.,
• Kuzminsky Park- A beautiful park with greenery all around perfect for spending some quality time with family or friends

Primary Industries

• Metallurgical Industry: Elektrostal is renowned for its steel production industry that involves the manufacturing of steel pipes, wires, sheets and other metal products.
• Chemical Industry: The city boasts several chemical plants that produce chemicals such as ammonia, fertilizers and plastics.
• Machinery Industry: Elektrostal has a significant machinery industry that produces machine tools, mining equipment and other industrial machinery.
• Construction Materials Industry: There are several cement factories in the city producing cement and concrete products.
• Food Processing Industry: Several food processing plants operate within the city producing dairy products, meat products and other food items.
• Energy Sector: The city houses a thermal power plant which supplies electricity to the region.
• Retail and Service Sector: Additionally, there is a well-developed retail sector with shopping centers, supermarkets and small shops catering to the local population’s needs.

Noteable History

• The city was founded in 1916 as a center for steel production during World War I.
• During World War II, Elektrostal played a crucial role in supplying the Soviet army with weapons and ammunition.
• In 1957, the first nuclear power plant in Russia was built near Elektrostal.
• The city is known for producing high-quality steel that is used in various industries such as automotive, aerospace, and construction.
• Notable people from Elektrostal include Olympic gold medalist figure skater Irina Slutskaya and former Russian Prime Minister Sergei Kiriyenko.
• In recent years, the city has undergone significant modernization efforts to improve its infrastructure and attract new businesses to the area.

Museums and Things To See

• Museum of Local Lore: This museum showcases the history and culture of Elektrostal and the surrounding region.
• Victory Park: A large park dedicated to the victory in World War II, with monuments, memorials, and a military museum.
• Church of St. Nicholas: A beautiful Orthodox church with stunning frescoes and icons.
• The House-Museum of V.V.Vorovsky: This museum is dedicated to the revolutionary leader Vorovsky who lived in Elektrostal for a time.
• The Central Culture and Leisure Park: A popular park with various attractions like amusement rides, sports facilities, cafes etc.
• The Monument to the First Builders of Elektrostal: This monument commemorates those who built the city’s first industrial complex.
• Art Gallery Art-El: An art center featuring works by local artists as well as exhibitions from around Russia and beyond.
• Museum Elektrosvet: A unique museum showcasing lighting equipment from various periods starting from 19th century till present day.

Cultural Events

• City Day Celebration: This festival is held annually on the first weekend of September to celebrate the founding of Elektrostal.
• International Festival The World of Dance: A dance festival featuring performances from various countries around the world.
• Folklore Kaleidoscope Festival: A cultural event showcasing traditional folk music, dance, and costumes from different regions of Russia.
• Art-Electro Festival: An art exhibition featuring works by local artists as well as artists from other parts of Russia.
• Jazz Festivals: There are several jazz festivals held throughout the year in Elektrostal which feature performances by local and international jazz musicians.

• Shashlychnaya No. 1 – A restaurant specializing in shashlik (Russian kebabs) and other grilled meats.
• Cafe U Dvukh Medvedey – A cozy cafe serving traditional Russian dishes like borscht, pelmeni (dumplings), and blini (pancakes).
• Pivnaya Apteka – A beer bar with a wide selection of craft beers from Russia and around the world.
• Kebab House – A fast-food chain offering various types of kebabs, falafel wraps, and salads.
• Cafe Podkova – Another cozy cafe serving Russian dishes like beef stroganoff, chicken Kiev, and dumplings with different fillings.
• Restaurant Kolbasny Dom – A meat lover’s paradise with various types of sausages, smoked meats, and steaks on the menu.
• Sushi Master – For those who crave Japanese cuisine; this sushi restaurant offers fresh sushi rolls and sashimi plates.
• Pizzeria Mama Mia!- If you’re in the mood for Italian food; this pizzeria offers delicious pizzas made from scratch using fresh ingredients.
• Cafe Kamelot- A cozy café serving traditional Russian dishes such as borscht soup,pelmeni (dumplings),and vareniki(boiled dumplings).
• Restaurant “Gagarin”- Named after Yuri Gagarin; this restaurant serves European cuisine including steaks,pasta,and salads along with exotic cocktails to choose from!

Parks and Recreation

• Central Park of Culture and Rest
• Park of the 50th Anniversary of Victory
• Park of the 300th Anniversary of Elektrostal
• Sports and Recreation Complex Olympic
• Ice Palace Elektrostal
• Ski resort Krugloye Ozero
• Beach complex Sunny Beach
• Tennis club Elektrostal
• Bowling club Strike
• Paintball club Delta Force

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• Independent Trave...

Independent Travel to Moscow and St. Petersburg

My wife and I have traveled independently to many European countries and, after reading many of the comments in this forum, feel like we may be able to do so in Moscow and St. Petersburg as well, although we feel somewhat less comfortable than the other countries where we have traveled in Europe.

My biggest question is how much we will miss by visiting the main sites without a tour guide. In the other European countries we have visited on our own we have been comfortable and satisfied with the level of knowledge we have gained by studying and visiting on our own, although we believe a tour guide or tour company in any country would normally be able to provide greater insight than visiting a site on our own, but about in Moscow and St. Petersburg?

Any thoughts would be appreciated.

Unless you speak at least some Russian and read the alphabet it would be difficult without a guide. Very few signs in English especially in Moscow. Also not too many people speak English there.

I visited St Petersburg last Autumn for a protracted period , and did not find it anymore daunting than any other European city . As Ilja says , learning the Cyrillic alphabet is a big plus . I also found that it was fairly easy to grasp . It will , among other things , enable you to read signs with relative ease . I would answer the main part or your question ( about tour guides ) thus - I am not enamored of tour guides or tours. While I only use a tour under duress ( A sites rules prohibiting an independent visit - ie Glasgow School of Art , Municipal House in Prague , etc ) . Doing your own preparation and homework is the best way , in my opinion . My wife and I ventured through St Petersburg with nary a concern ,and made two day trips outside of the central district ( one was twenty five miles away , and no English speakers in sight ) Figuring out the logistical details , did not present any difficulties . While I never use tours , I am an inveterate eavesdropper , have done so many times , and find , that on balance , the information that they impart is fairly elementary . If you want greater detail , they are unlikely to supply it . I also prefer to go at my own pace , not being rushed and being able to dwell on things that most other visitors barely give a passing glance . If you are interested , let me know . I would be happy to provide you with information that will enable you to travel independently

Thank you, Steven. I am encouraged by your comments and feel the same way you do about tour groups. We are very much willing to prepare in advance and learn the basics of the Cyrillic alphabet to help us have a better experience.

I would be very interested in learning more about your experience in Russia and receiving any additional information you can provide on independent travel there, starting perhaps with obtaining the visa.

I am not opposed to hiring a private or small group guide for a specific site or for a day trip outside St Petersburg and Moscow, but, like you said, I much prefer the freedom of staying at places as long or short as I want and seeing the sites that interest me most. For example, neither my wife nor I are big into shopping, yet most tour itineraries leave afternoon time for just that. Not interested!

Please provide whatever you may feel would be helpful for us.

Russ , I see you are quite near San Francisco - you can start by looking at the VISA procedure , it's fairly straightforward . Since there is a consulate in San Francisco - look here http://www.consulrussia.org/eng/visa-sub1.html

And here - http://ils-usa.com/main.php

Having always traveled independently, we thought we could do a better job than any tour. How misguided (pun intended) we were. Now that we have had the experience of having someone native to the area walk us around and explain things through a personal perspective we realize how much we missed. For St. Petersburg I highly recommend http://www.peterswalk.com/tours.html . This is not a traditional guided tour, but an opportunity to receive some orientation to the area as well as insight into the "Russian soul". I think if you did this upon arrival the rest of your time would be much more meaningful. We really liked the http://www.pushka-inn.com . The location is superb (just around the corner from the Hermitage square), the rooms lovely, the included breakfast at the restaurant next door ample and overall an excellent value. We used this company to get our visa: https://www.passportvisasexpress.com/site/san_francisco_customer_service Note that it costs about the same for a 3-year visa as a one-year, and you never know if you might want to return within that more extended window of time. It is not cheap, so factor that into your planning.

If you like traveling without a guide in other countries and find this satisfying, the same will be true in Moscow and St. Petersburg. Of course it's not either/or - you can certainly take a guided walk or boat tour, for instance.

I cannot emphasize enough the importance of learning Cyrillic if you're going on your own. The book I used was Teach Yourself Beginner's Russian Script, which was great. It breaks down the alphabet into letters that are the same as English, letters that look the same but are pronounced differently, etc. It's out of print, but you can get used copies on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Teach-Yourself-Beginners-Russian-Script/dp/0071419861/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1459701143&sr=8-2&keywords=teach+yourself+russian+script

Russia is indeed a bit more "foreign" than say, Italy. However, in Moscow and St. Petersburg, I found enough English to be able to get by. Many restaurants had English menus and/or English speaking staff, for instance. This was most emphatically not true in Vladimir and Suzdal (two cities in the Golden Ring outside Moscow). I went with my sister, a Russian speaker, and if she hadn't been there, I would have been in big trouble. So, if you want to see places outside these two big cities, use a guided tour (even if just for that part). Also, Moscow and St. Petersburg are huge cities. Coming from New York, I wasn't intimidated, but those not used to a megacity may not be so cavalier (even I found them overwhelming at times, especially Moscow).

I found both Lonely Planet and Rough Guide to be helpful, and both to have various errors. Look at both, buy whichever one has a more recent edition, and then be prepared to have to discard some of the advice therein. Also, these places change more quickly than places in Western Europe. Be very careful of outdated advice. For instance, I was there in 2001 and 2010, so I won't give you any specifics on getting a visa - that changes constantly.

Just as a teaser, two things I saw and loved that I doubt would be included in any escorted tour are the Gorky House in Moscow (an Art Nouveau wonder) and the Sheremyetov Palace in St. Petersburg (it's now a museum of musical instruments, and the decor is amazing, particularly in the Etruscan Room).

Thanks for all the good advice. Any additional thoughts are welcomed.

One of history's seminal works pertaining to Russian history and culture and a MUST for anyone contemplating a visit or simply interested , is this fine work from 1980 - http://www.amazon.com/Land-Firebird-The-Beauty-Russia/dp/096441841X

This is about you and not about Petersburg. Do you like guided tours? We don't and didn't find that a guide added to our experience in China where we did hire private guides mostly for the logistics; it was easy to have someone drive us places. But once at a site, we didn't need the guide. I felt the same way about our 9 nights in Petersburg. We did hire a guide for the trip to the Catherine Palace again for the ease of logistics for us Olds. Here is our visit: https://janettravels.wordpress.com/2016/01/23/an-easy-trip-to-the-catherine-palace/ There are also snapshots of the Church on Spilled Blood in this photo journal. Having someone pick us up at the apartment and get us in without line ups and shepherd us through the palace steering clear of the tour groups was lovely. But we didn't need commentary because we can read and prepare.

You certainly don't need a guide for the Hermitage (we spent 4 days there), the Russian Museum, the Kazan Cathedral or Church on Spilled Blood or the Faberge Museum. We enjoyed a number of self guided walking tours including a couple from Rick Steves guidebooks. We took the canal cruise suggested by RS that had an English commentator. I would not take one without that as you will be totally clueless. The commentator was not all that good but at least we had some idea what we were seeing. So for people like us who like to do our own thing and can read a guidebook and don't particularly like to be led about, a tour is not needed. If you enjoy tour groups, then go for it. Petersburg is easy to negotiate. It helps if you can read the cyrillic alphabet and it is also useful to have the google translate ap on your phone. We found ourselves translating packages in grocery stores with it and the occasional museum sign or menu. I have one food I need to avoid and so it was handy to have the translator to talk with waiters (I could either show them the sentence, or play it for them or play it to myself and then repeat it to the waiter -- that all worked well)

Dear Russ, I cannot help you with Moscow, but about four years ago, my husband and I went to St Petersburg on our own. But, we did use a private guide for 4 half days. We both feel that our guide absolutely made our trip (we stayed 6 or 7 nights). We used a company owned by Tatyana Chiurikova, www.tour-stpetersburg.com I cannot say enough good things about her and our experience. I emailed her and we worked out a schedule/ sights that was tailored to our interests. She also offered some recommendations, which we took. The guide will meet you at your hotel. And frequently, at certain places, with the guide, we were able to skip the long entrance lines. We had an half day driving tour of the city (car, driver, & guide). You are taken to & go in places such as Peter & Paul Fortress, some of the cathedrals, etc. We had a half day with the guide at the Hermitage which ensured that we would see the major sights there. And, of course, you can stay after your guide leaves or return another day. Also, we had the guide for Peterhof (a must & go by boat) and Catherine's Palace. I hope that you will go to the website. As I said, our guide made our trip. I am positive that we would have missed quite a bit on our own everyday. And I'm sure we would have wasted a lot of time trying to get to various place.This was the best of both worlds, a guide where needed and plenty of time on our own. Whatever you do, I'm sure that you will love St Petersburg! Ashley

I am curious about the lines as we encountered no lines on our trip -- but it was in September. We got tickets for the Hermitage at machines and skipped those lines and our guide for the Catherine Palace which was our only guided experience (as noted before, chosen for the logistics of getting there) had arranged tickets and we didn't have a line, but then we also didn't see lines. We did not find lines at any other site.

Both Moscow and St Petersburg I've done on my own, that is together with the Dear Partner. I can't remember any problem getting where we wanted to go. The Metro systems are well signed, and with a little exercise and patience you can recognize the station names. With a good map and a good guide - we had the Rough Guides - that part of the logistics is solved. The language is a major problem, but the usual tricks of pointing, looking helpless, and making a joke of it all do wonders. I would hate to be led by a guide, but for others it is a comfortable thought.

We also did both cities on our own. I found the DK Eyewitness guide for Moscow has the best map. I used the one from our library (kept the book at home). Took the smaller RS book for St. Petersburg ( his book on northern cities). His map and restaurant ideas were all good. We also downloaded the Google maps in our Android Samsung tablets/phones for both cities and then could get directions to any place we typed in. The blue ball guided us everywhere. I'm sure we missed somethings by not having a guide, but we just enjoy walking around and getting a sense of a place. If you like art, The Hermitage is great. We went 3 times and still missed alot. In St. Peterburg we stayed at the 3 Mosta which we loved (quite and not far from the Church of Spilled Blood.) We also loved the Georgian food in both cities. There's a great Georgian restaurant near the 3 Mosta hotel. We're now in Belarus- very scenic. Enjoy your trip!!

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I Spent Hours Reading Shopper Reviews to Find the 10 Best Travel Accessories at Amazon — From $10

Who better to trust than travelers in the real world?

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Travel + Leisure / Daisy Rodriguez

As a travel writer, it’s important that I have the right travel essentials to match my on-the-go lifestyle. I rely on accessories that are durable enough to go the distance and can make my adventures as seamless as possible. And one of my go-to methods for finding them is checking out the trending and top-rated Amazon items recommended by fellow travelers and shoppers — because who better to trust than those actively testing products like luggage and comfortable clothing in the real world? 

And because it’s my full-time job to know the best deals on the internet, I spent hours combing through Amazon’s shopper review section to curate a list of the 10 most-loved, highly-sought-after products from the retailer. These items range from a travel backpack that one shopper dubbed as a “traveler’s dream come true” to a surprisingly spacious $10 carry-on duffel bag with thousands of perfect ratings. What's even more exciting is that many of these highly-rated items are currently up to 70 percent off, making now the perfect time to grab them and enhance your spring travels.

Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable Double Spinner Carry-on

Need a luggage upgrade? Look no further than this Samsonite carry-on, which has not only earned a spot on Amazon’s best-selling carry-on list , but has also received over 9,000 perfect ratings from reviewers. In fact, even a former full-time traveler has praised this bag : “After years of flying to four to five different cities every week (most of which had connecting flights and drives involved), I know my suitcases, and this one is the best.” That same shopper also highlighted their favorite features of the bag: its four 360-degree wheels that glide smoothly over everything from “carpet, regular floors, and sidewalks,” its spacious interior, and its stunning look that remained intact despite years of travel.  

Even more, this bag has earned high marks from Travel + Leisure editors, who dubbed it the best overall choice in their hardside luggage test . According to testers, “Earning perfect scores across the board, this standout suitcase is compact yet spacious, with a high-strength thermoplastic shell and smooth-gliding wheels.” It also happens to be on sale for $150 this week.

Apple AirTag 4-pack

Garnering nearly 100,000 five-star ratings, Apple AirTags have been called everything from a “ lifesaver ” and “ the best invention ever ” to “ the ultimate tracking device ” by Amazon shoppers. It’s clear that travelers can’t get enough of these Bluetooth tracking devices, as they effortlessly sync with the Find My app on Apple devices to provide precise, real-time tracking of your belongings. And, with this pack of four (that happens to be $20 off), you can head out with the peace of mind that all of your personal belongings are accounted for. 

Narwey Foldable Duffel Bag

After reading through dozens of duffel bag reviews, I’ve come to the conclusion that this one is the best of the best. At a mere 18 inches by 13 inches by 6.3 inches, the bag has a reputation for fitting “ a week’s worth of clothes, plus toiletries and shoes ,” — all while meeting the requirements for a personal item on Spirit and Frontier flights. It’s on sale for $10 and available in 42 different hues and prints, so you might as well snag one for you and your travel mates. 

Bagail Packing Cube Set

Packing cubes are an essential travel accessory for efficient and space-saving organization in your suitcase. And while there are plenty of packs to choose from, I’m particularly enchanted by this set that one reviewer claimed “changed [their] life” thanks to its ability to keep your items separated, compressed, and properly stored. Plus, you can get them double discounted for $16 thanks to an on-site coupon. 

Asenlin Travel Backpack 40L

If you’ve never traveled with a backpack, then let this be your sign to start. With their ergonomic design, backpacks serve as a roomy yet compact option to transport your belongings, all while helping you skew past unnecessary bag fees. This Aselin Travel Backpack comes with a 40-liter carrying capacity that one customer called “a traveler’s dream come true” because of its “spacious and thoughtful design” and water-resistant material. 

She’s Birdie Personal Safety Alarm

As important as it is to enjoy your trip, it’s just as vital to stay alert and vigilant no matter where you go. I like to keep a plethora of safety devices in my travel bag, but if I were to prioritize one, I’d recommend this Amazon best-selling personal alarm that reviewers say gives them “ peace of mind ” while they travel. And as a cherry on top? It’s 20 percent off. 

Anlmz Store 3-in-1 Charging Station

Keeping a full charge on your iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods can be challenging. And that's before you factor in keeping track of a bunch of their different charging cables in your carry-on. Fortunately, Amazon has a three-in-one solution that charges your tech together in one convenient spot. And, one shopper loved it so much during a recent trip that they are “buying another one just to keep in [their] carry-on so they always have it for traveling.” Be sure to clip the on-site coupon so you can score an extra 30 percent off. 

JBL Tune 710BT Wireless Over-ear Headphones

To me, entertainment ranks high on my list of must-haves for a comfortable journey, and that typically begins with a great pair of headphones. But contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to spend hundreds of dollars for a high-quality pair. I personally love this pair of over-ear noise-canceling headphones for its stellar sound quality and comfortable fit — but don’t just take my word for it; take it from the thousands of five-star shopper reviews they've earned, each one highlighting their long-lasting battery and design that does not “fall or slip off” during transit. Snag a pair to try out for yourself, considering that they’re 25 percent off today. 

Talena Belt Bag

With spring in full swing (and summer just around the corner), the key to staying cool and comfortable is by traveling as lightweight as possible. And while this means wearing garments like breezy tanks and flowy pants, this tidbit of advice also applies to the bags that we carry. So what are Amazon travelers loving this season? This versatile $10 bag that can be worn as a belt bag, crossbody, or shoulder bag. Shoppers say that it “holds a lot” of stuff and that they can “fit a small wallet, notepad, travel-sized make-up, sunglasses, readers, and so much more into this bag.” Even more, its straightforward design can be styled up, down, and be worn virtually anywhere. 

Napfun Travel Neck Pillow

As a frequent traveler, I know the importance of getting good rest while on the go. That's why one of my priorities when I first embarked on my mission to find the best Amazon travel accessories was to track down a great, shopper-loved neck pillow. And let me tell you, I hit the jackpot with this incredible $15 one from Napfun. It is designed with memory foam and chin support for unbelievable, next-level comfort, and is regarded by one shopper as a “great pillow for travel,” a title that they gave it after they were able to rest comfortably on a 20-hour flight to Alaska. They added that flying with the pillow “was optimal in my ability to sleep on my longest connection flight, which was six hours.”

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36 Inch Canvas Duffel Bag 100L Extra Large Luggage Duffle for Travel Sport and Camping (Olive)

36” X 13” X 13”

42” X 15” X 15”

Purchase options and add-ons

• Large duffle dimensions when full: 36*13*13 inches(L*W*H). Includes 2 web handles on the ends and 1 in the center with a full-length zipper for easy access.
• Carry all canvas duffel: Large canvas bag can be used to carry anything from gym or fishing accessories to blankets, to laundry.
• Sports Duffel Bag: Made of heavy-duty canvas that is reinforced at all stress points. It can be used as luggage for travel or equipment bag for sports like soccer, volleyball, hockey, football, etc.
• Take on camping trips: This canvas duffel can carry a range of your camping needs like a sleeping bag, waterproof tent, chairs, bungee cords, an air mattress, a toolbox, you name it! When empty, it can be light, small, and foldable.
• Versatile use: Always be prepared at your sports game with this duffel that is big enough to hold your cleats, water, flag, umbrella, hat, net, or whatever gear you may need. It can even be set for the beach or when moving from your house.

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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 weight and value of the duffel bag. For example, they say it's easy to carry and good value for the money. Customers are also impressed with the size, performance, and quality. That said, some complain about the thickness. Opinions are mixed on the strap and handle.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers like the quality of the duffel bag. They say it's well-made, durable, and lasts for years. Some mention that the strap is well stitched and it makes a nice extra bag for travel.

"...the perfect size, it protects the contents, and so far, it's been very durable . I'd buy it again." Read more

"...It was sturdy enough to be fine as checked luggage." Read more

"...The reasons I'm pleased with this are, first of all it's high quality, tough and durable. It hasn't torn or ripped. The handles haven't come off...." Read more

"... Not super strong but should do what I want it to do! Sometimes that's just what you need. It folds up compactly and fits in a mailbox or suitcase." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the size of the duffel bag. For example, they mention it's roomy, light weight, and large enough to fit their 8 person tent and still has room for some of their other equipment. Some say it'll hold a lot of stuff and is nice and large for a trip to Tanzania.

"...It's the perfect size , it protects the contents, and so far, it's been very durable. I'd buy it again." Read more

"...It was large enough to put several extra items in with the pack and play...." Read more

"I use these to haul craft supplies to and from classes. They are large , easy to load, easy to transport, and easy to store...." Read more

"I like the bag. It was very suitable for my inflatable paddle board . It also has the right dimensions for airplane check-in." Read more

Customers like the value of the duffel bag. For example, they mention it's the best bag for the money and size, and the fabric is acceptable for the price.

"Thought I would give this a try. Great price but thin material. Let’s hope it holds up" Read more

"Pro - it is very inexpensive , the fabric seems tough, the zipper accommodates a typical luggage lock, and the airline accepted it as within the "62..." Read more

"...OVERALL, it's a good value for the money ." Read more

"The fabric is acceptable for the price . Clever design with the location of the hand holds when using the strap." Read more

Customers find the duffel bag to be a great lightweight bag. They say it's easy to carry, and a good bag for light use. Some mention that it consolidates items and makes transporting them much easier.

"...They are large, easy to load, easy to transport , and easy to store. The extra handles on the side and end help with maneuvering the loaded bags." Read more

"This is a light duty bag ." Read more

" Very light weight material . I don't have high expectations that this thing will last." Read more

"...The bag is great! Large, easy to carry , not heavy, fits everything, and is strong! I will be sure to buy from this seller again." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the performance of the duffel bag. They mention that it works great, is a typical light, decently reliable duffle, and works well with their metal detector. Some are also pleased with the durability and strength of the bag.

"...(mainly flying) with my daughter's skateboard equipment, and it works great ...." Read more

"...For now, great way to store the bench. Works perfectly for my needs ." Read more

"... It works perfectly . SO far it is sturdy and I already know that its going to take a beating, but for the price, its perfect!!..." Read more

" Works fine as typical light decently reliable duffle you could get in a Walmart, but a strong sturdy thick canvas it is not, I mean it works great..." Read more

Customers are mixed about the handle of the duffel bag. Some mention that it has no handles, while others say that the extra handles on the side and end help with maneuvering the loaded bags.

"...The extra handles on the side and end help with maneuvering the loaded bags." Read more

" No handles , but large...." Read more

"...There is no way you could weigh this. I wish it had a handle , didn't pay attention to the details once I got it, other than that it is good." Read more

" No handles to carry ..." Read more

Customers are mixed about the strap. Some mention it has a shoulder strap that makes carrying it through the airport a lot easier, while others say it came without a strap.

"...It has a shoulder strap so it made carrying it through the airport a lot easier. It was sturdy enough to be fine as checked luggage." Read more

"...It lacks the shoulder strap found on the 40 inch version, which makes for challenges handling in the airport." Read more

"...The shoulder strap is a big help too as you can load a ton of stuff in this bag!" Read more

"...The pros: Includes shoulder strap Handles on both endsHandle in the middleDecent zipper qualityLightweight bag..." Read more

Customers are dissatisfied with the thickness of the duffel bag. They mention that the material is thin and flimsy, and it will not hold up to even moderate use.

"Thought I would give this a try. Great price but thin material . Let’s hope it holds up" Read more

"...Lightweight bagThe cons:The fabric of the bag is slightly thin .Has a weird smell outbid the box..." Read more

"The fabric is a bit thinner than I hoped for, but I could not tell from the description and took a chance...." Read more

"...a handful of clothes in this thing, look elsewhere as this is NOT a stout bag ." Read more

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