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The Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks

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.

When you open up your favorite carry-on travel backpack, it should feel like you’re opening the door to a well-organized closet or sitting down at a clean desk, with everything in the right place and easy to reach.

This is your moment to center yourself, no matter how chaotic the journey.

What we considered

A 45-liter bag maximizes overhead space but can get heavy when fully packed; 35-liter bags tend to be more manageable.

A bag with a clamshell design opens like a book and is the easiest to pack, but a bag that opens traditionally tends to have more structure.

Ideally, a travel backpack has handles on all sides—especially the bottom—so you can pull it out of overhead bins or from under seats.

Some internal pockets are useful, but major organizing is better managed with packing cubes.

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack and the larger Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L offer the best combination of features, quality, and durability. Both bags are exemplary carry-on travel backpacks that are designed for comfort, durability, and organization. Though these backpacks are great as companion bags for any trip, they’re designed to ultimately replace all of your other luggage and become your exclusive bag as you travel.

This style of packing is not for everyone, but once some people try it, they’re forever hooked. Finding the right bag is a personal choice, though, and no single bag will appeal to everyone. That’s why we also have picks that are great for people who travel for work , others that are designed to be carried over long distances , and a bag that’s basically luggage on your back .

The research

Why you should trust us, who this is for, best small carry-on bag for most situations: cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack, best large bag for most situations: peak design travel backpack 45l, best mobile office: patagonia black hole mlc 45l, best bag for long journeys on foot: osprey farpoint 40 and fairview 40, best bag if you need a large suitcase on your back: tortuga travel backpack pro 40l, other good carry-on travel backpacks, how we picked and tested, the competition.

I’ve been covering aspects of luggage and travel bag design for Wirecutter for nearly a decade, and I have personally researched, tested, and compared hundreds of bags in that time. I personally try to do most of my travel with a single backpack, whenever possible. I spent nine months roaming around Hawaii with not much more than that, and I spent another six months nomadically couch-surfing in New York City.

I reached out to writers who specialize in traveling the world carrying everything they need in a single bag: Eytan Levy, the owner and operator of the Snarky Nomad travel website; James Feess, founder of The Savvy Backpacker ; and Sharon Gourlay, of the Where’s Sharon? travel website. I also spoke with moderators of Reddit’s r/onebag and r/heronebag forums, as well as with Chase Reeves, bag fanatic, reviewer, and owner of Matterful .

We researched and tested bags designed for those who want to travel light and stay flexible while flying, without the burden of checking luggage. For some people, the challenge of cutting down a packing list is intimidating. But if you can get past that initial hurdle, traveling with a single bag is a revelation. With fewer items, you have more time to concentrate on and appreciate the journey.

• When you’re not loaded down by heavy luggage, it’s easy to remain more mobile. And it’s easier to adjust your plans mid-trip. If you’re willing to do laundry on the road, then one bag is all you need to travel indefinitely. At its heart, one-bag travel allows you to discover more—not just about the places you’re going but also about yourself and what you really need day to day.
• Size and weight still matter. If you desire more creature comforts or more gear, or if you plan to be away for a long time across multiple climates, you’ll want a bigger travel backpack . These larger bags tend not to be carry-on-friendly, however, especially in Europe, so be prepared to check them.
• No single backpack is perfect for everyone. Before you make any purchase, consider some basic points. How much can you carry? And where do you usually visit: the city or outback? Travel gear should feel like a welcome companion—there to support you when you need it but unobtrusive when you don’t.

45-liter bag vs. 35-liter bag

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

A versatile small pack for a week or a weekend.

This durable bag’s clamshell design makes it easy to organize your stuff. And due to its strap design, this bag can be worn on your back or carried in your hand while you’re on the move.

Buying Options

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack is an easy-to-organize, comfortable-to-carry bag for getaways lasting just a few days or a whole week.

It’s one bag that can do it all. This is a great all-around bag for any traveler who’s dedicated to packing light, or for a smaller person who wants less to carry. There are handles on all four sides of this bag, so it’s easy to grab no matter where you’ve stowed it. It’s also protected by a full lifetime warranty, and it has the build quality to back that up. After more than four years of testing, this single backpack (plus a personal item ) has replaced nearly every travel bag or piece of luggage I use.

It comes in various sizes, but we think the middle-of-the-road version is the best. Cotopaxi also makes the Allpa in 28-liter and 42-liter sizes. But for us, the 35-liter bag is the best option. At 42 liters, this bag becomes heavy for most people to carry when it is fully packed, and we’d prefer that it had a more-robust hip belt. At 28 liters, the bag becomes a touch small for most people, and its internal organization feels fussy for shorter trips, such as an overnight. Cotopaxi also makes a hip pack , which is designed to fit snugly into the Allpa bag’s front top compartment. It’s a neat little addition to the bag, and it is worth getting if you like wearing fanny packs while you travel.

It’s organized, easy to pack, and easy to carry. The Allpa bag has a clamshell design, so it opens like a hard-sided suitcase—a large YKK zipper runs around three sides of the bag, allowing it to fall open into two halves when unzipped. On the right side is a deep compartment, spacious enough for two large packing cubes or half a suitcase’s worth of clothing (which you access through a mesh zippered flap). On the left, there’s space for one more medium-size packing cube behind a zippered flap. Above that there are two smaller pockets with high-visibility backing—useful when you’re looking for hard-to-differentiate personal items.

It’s secure but still accessible. The Allpa pack has two side-access zippers—great for on-the-go access, especially when the bag is hanging from your shoulder. One of these reveals a flat computer pocket with a padded false bottom; so if you drop the bag, it won’t land on the corner of your computer. The other reveals a “secret” pocket with a hidden zipper and access to the main compartment. All of the main compartment zippers are protected by security loops, which you thread the zipper through at the end of its run. This prevents anyone from subtly or quickly grabbing a zipper and opening your bag when you aren’t paying attention.

It’s comfortable to carry. The Allpa bag’s hip belt—which can be removed while the bag is on your back—is substantial enough that it’s comfortable to wear when you need it. With or without the hip belt, the Allpa bag is comfortable to carry over long distances. However, folks who have longer torsos (over 19 inches) may find that the waist belt sits a little high off the hips, unless you fully extend the shoulder straps. Speaking of shoulder straps, unlike the ones on our other picks, the Allpa bag’s straps are contoured to fit people who have large or small chests. It’s not a specifically gendered design, but our female tester noticed the improvement right away.

The Allpa pack is made with 1680-denier ballistic nylon, similar to the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 45 . (Denier is a measure of a fabric’s fiber thickness.) It feels similar to a strong canvas, but it has a more prominent weave. This is the type of bag that’s as easy to toss into an overhead compartment as it is into the back of a rusty pickup truck. And it also includes a rainfly, which is unique in this category.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• Though this pack is well organized for packing, it’s less ideal as a mobile office. The Allpa pack has a minimal amount of administrative organization—places to keep pens and papers, spaces to hold tickets, and so forth. This is where a good personal item comes in handy. However, if you want to travel with just this one bag, there are a few nooks you can hide things in. The front organizer is deep enough that you can also fit several small organizing pouches, if you want, or the aforementioned fanny pack.
• We prefer the model without the TPU front. Cotopaxi does enjoy playing around with fabrics and colors. Sometimes the company has released the Allpa pack without the TPU-lined front panel. The TPU panel improves water resistance, but after many years of traveling with our bag, we’ve found that the TPU layering can begin to flake in spots.

Capacity: 35 liters Weight: 3 pounds 5 ounces Main compartment access: clamshell opening Style: adventurous Colors: assorted

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

An easily customizable large bag for long trips and expensive gear.

This bag was built with photographers in mind. Yet most travelers will appreciate its easy accessibility, clever tuck-away straps, and the elegant way the bag expands and contracts. The accessory cubes cost extra, though.

The Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is a good choice for those carrying more expensive gear—especially camera gear. It’s also great for those who prefer a large, backpack-based packing system.

One bag provides many configurations. Some bags in this category are built to do one thing extremely well—be carried on your back. But the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is built to adapt. It’s the Swiss Army knife of backpacks: adjustable, customizable, and (if you spring for the extra cubes and organizers) an almost perfect system for a photographer or gearhead on the move. Most bags’ expanding mechanisms aren’t worth the extra zipper they’re built on, and they look about as attractive as a boiled ham splitting out of its plastic packaging. That’s not the case with the Peak Design: This bag looks just as good fully packed at 45 liters as it does compressed to a 30-liter daypack.

It’s expandable, with clever folds and zippers. You can access the bag through a back panel (which doubles as a computer and tablet pouch) as well as a front one (if you unzip the pass-through divider). You can also get into the main compartment via two wing-like trapezoidal flaps, which run along each side of the pack. In its natural shape, the Travel Backpack holds 35 liters, but an expansion zipper lets the bag swell to 45 liters. If you want to use the bag as a daypack, you fold in the top corners and snap them down, reducing the bag’s volume to a slim 30 liters. In this configuration, it will still feel larger than a normal daypack, but we think that’s a small compromise for being able to use one backpack as both your travel bag and your daily explorer. The bag itself consists of 400-denier nylon and polyester fabrics. It feels tough but not as tough as some other bags we’ve tested, such as the Cotopaxi Allpa.

It has fold-away straps, for easier storage. The Peak Design lets you tuck its shoulder and hip straps away when you’re not using them. But unlike any other bag we’ve ever tested, this pack has magnetic flaps on the back panel that open and close with an almost magical snap. Once you’ve played with them, you’ll wonder why every backpack doesn’t have something similar. A small, childish part of me still gets excited about tucking away the straps when I put the Peak Design into an overhead bin. Although the straps are thin, they’re still comfortable. The hip belt isn’t quite as plush as the one on the Tortuga pack; still, even when the Peak Design is fully loaded, the belt doesn’t pinch or dig into the body.

It’s great for carrying expensive gear. If you travel with a camera, you don’t have to use Peak Design’s camera cubes , but they do make carrying that gear a whole lot easier. The cubes come in five sizes. And if they’re situated properly in the bag with the provided clips, they line up with the Travel Backpack’s side-access flaps for quick access. Caleigh Waldman (a photographer for this piece and, full disclosure, my spouse) took this bag across the country for a wedding shoot. “I want this backpack,” she said after three weeks of travel. “I want to travel with it everywhere. With my cameras. Without my cameras. It doesn’t matter. I want to travel with it.”

• It’s expensive—especially if you commit to the entire system of packing and camera cubes.
• More complexity means more things that can break. The adjustable design and multiple zippers do add complexity, and complexity adds potential weaknesses. Peak Design covers all of its bags with a lifetime warranty , which should alleviate most people’s concerns. But if you’re particularly hard on your gear and still need to carry as much as possible, you might consider the Tortuga bag instead.

Capacity: 45 liters Weight: 4½ pounds Main compartment access: back-panel loader Style: minimalist and unobtrusive Color: black, sage

Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L

Combines more organization with a simple interior.

This bag’s split interior makes organizing easy. Those who travel for work will appreciate this bag’s dedicated panels for organizing tech, books, papers, and assorted miscellaneous items.

If you travel often for business and prefer a bag that’s much easier to work out of than most of our other picks, you may like the Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L . This bag has a front panel and assorted pockets that make it feel like a small traveling office.

It’s built like luggage but organized like your office. Of all the bags we recommend, the MLC (short for Maximum Legal Carry) comes closest to being a suitcase on your back, due to its large size, simple interior, and minimal external features. The MLC is also one of the simplest bags we tested, divided into two leaves (imagine a book with only one page), with a main compartment for packing and a second compartment for document organization and tech storage. The MLC has a built-in laptop compartment that fits 17-inch laptops and is situated close to your back; this protects the computer and keeps its weight closer to your body.

Despite its size, it’s comfortable enough to carry. Most carry-on backpacks of this size, without frames, become somewhat unwieldy when fully packed. Thankfully, the Black Hole MLC bag, like the Cotopaxi Allpa, is a welcome exception to this rule. The MLC has two shoulder straps, a hip belt, and an optional shoulder strap, for easy carrying. When they're not in use, or when you’re checking your bag, all of the straps can be stowed away easily. When fully loaded, the bag was pleasant to carry—not as comfortable as the Peak Design or the Osprey, but decent enough. I wouldn’t want to carry it all day across a city, but I wouldn’t mind carrying it through an airport to a car and to a hotel.

It’s built from high-quality materials, with durability in mind. This pack is made from recycled polyester, and the fabric is woven in a cross-weave that’s very similar to what Patagonia uses in its long-lasting Black Hole series of duffle bags . This is a material I’ve come across a bunch with Patagonia gear, and I’ve tested it thoroughly; it’s very tough. The front of the bag is coated in a weather-resistant TPU, for extra protection from the elements. The bag has large YKK zippers (the industry leader) and smaller YKK zippers throughout. Unlike the Cotopaxi Allpa pack, the Black Hole MLC bag has no security loops.

It comes with one of the best repair programs and a lifetime warranty. Similar to our other picks, the MLC is backed by an excellent lifetime warranty , and we’ve always found that Patagonia’s repair program goes above and beyond other comparable companies.

• We wish the Maximum Legal Carry (despite the name) came in a few more sizes. The 45-liter capacity may be intimidating for some people, and there is no alternative.

Capacity: 45 liters Weight: 3 pounds 10 ounces Main compartment access: clamshell Style: retro Colors: tan, black, olive, green

Osprey Farpoint 40

For long distances on foot.

A great starter option for one-bag travel, this bag is easy to pack, adaptable to most situations, and sturdy enough to take with you as you travel the world.

May be out of stock

Osprey Fairview 40

For long distances and smaller torsos.

A scaled-down version of the Farpoint, this bag has shoulder straps that are slightly lower, to keep the bag’s bulk more aligned with smaller torsos.

Updated in 2023, the Osprey Farpoint 40 and Fairview 40 packs are both built around a hiking backpack frame that’s easy to carry over long distances.

It’s built for travel but designed for hiking. The Farpoint 40 bag is well made, easy to pack, and comfortable to carry over most mid-length distances—such as walking across a city for an afternoon. (For simplicity’s sake, everything we say here about the Farpoint bag also applies to the Fairview bag.) Osprey makes excellent backpacks for hauling around, and its lifetime warranty is renowned within the industry . The Farpoint pack also has an optional messenger bag–style strap, which offers some flexibility when you’re maneuvering tight spaces like subways or crowded city centers.

It’s simple to pack, but not as spacious as it seems. Opening the bag reveals a clamshell design; it’s deep enough to accommodate most large items, yet you won’t have to fumble awkwardly with zippers once it’s time to close up the bag. The feeling you get is not unlike when you’re packing a bit of sturdy luggage, and that’s something we love about bags like this one—especially when you use packing cubes . Osprey says this bag, when fully packed, can carry 40 liters. But after using the Farpoint bag for a few years, we’ve decided that its rounded shape seems to cut into that theoretical packable space more than other bags do. In practice, the Farpoint pack’s available space is closer to—but still less than—that of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L .

It’s the easiest bag to carry among our picks. Like all Osprey bags, the Farpoint 40 has very comfortable shoulder straps. The years of design and consideration Osprey has put into its hiking backpacks are quite evident in the Farpoint 40. After more than seven years of long-term testing this bag, we’re still surprised by how great it feels to wear when fully packed. Crucially, the straps of the Farpoint 40 stow away neatly behind a zippered panel. However, when you’re using the shoulder straps, the design forces you to also use the hip straps. Though this isn’t a huge issue, if you prefer a sleeker look or would rather have the option of using shoulder straps without hip straps, the Cotopaxi Allpa pack is more flexible, and it lets you hide the waist straps while the bag is on your back.

The Fairview 40 has the same features, in a scaled-down size. The Farpoint 40 and the Fairview 40 packs basically have the same design, but the Fairview pack is made for someone with a more-diminutive torso. It’s also slightly lighter. However, it has the features and durability of the Farpoint bag. It also has the same hip belt and adjustability. On both, the chest-strap clip is also equipped with a small security whistle that’s surprisingly loud. It’s a handy feature for anyone traveling in unfamiliar environments.

• For a smaller carry-on travel backpack, this one has little to not like. However, we do wish Osprey would trade some of the sleeker contours for a little more interior space.

Capacity: 35 liters Weight (Farpoint): 3 pounds 3 ounces Weight (Fairview): 3 pounds 2 ounces Main compartment access: front-panel loader Style: active Colors (Farpoint): green (Gopher), gray (Tunnel Vision), blue (Muted Space), black Colors (Fairview): blue (Winter Night), red (Zircon), blue (Night Jungle), black

Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L

A suitcase to carry on your back.

For dedicated single-bag travelers, this water-resistant, durable bag is easy to pack and to travel with. And it’s comfortable to wear over endless miles—as long as you don’t mind the heavier weight.

The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L maximizes packing space in a bag that’s durable, water-resistant, and customizable to fit most torso lengths (there’s also a 30L version ), with plenty of organizational features to suit any digital nomad.

It’s like a suitcase, with backpack straps. The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L is built to occupy the maximum carry-on space available. It’s a nearly perfect blend of backpack and luggage. On the outside, its tear-resistant sailcloth and sealed zippers provide ample protection from sharp objects and the elements. Opening the main clamshell zipper reveals a cavernous interior and a few organizational features that make the bag a cinch to pack. The front panel is a particular standout, great for keeping track of electronics and chargers. Of all the bags we tested, the Tortuga strikes the closest balance between the carrying comfort of a hiking backpack and the space and organization of a piece of luggage.

It’s as easy to pack as luggage. When it comes to packing, the Tortuga pack has a soothingly minimal interior, as any good suitcase should. In addition to the bag’s cavernous main pocket, its interior lid has a large vented panel. The panel is too narrow to hold additional packing cubes, but it’s great for holding light jackets or doubling as a dirty-laundry bag (if you’re really committed to one-bag travel). The Tortuga is available as a 40-liter pack (the maximum space for a carry-on bag), which we tested; there is also a 30-liter version, which is compliant with some intra-European flights. The more-diminutive version is a decent choice for weekend travel or for minimalist travelers—but for those uses, we prefer the space-saving profile and extra internal organization of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L bag.

It’s very customizable. The Tortuga pack is the most adjustable model we tested, thanks to its adjustable torso length, shoulder straps, and waist-belt system. The adjustable strap system lets you manipulate the location of the shoulder straps (video) to fit a wider variety of body sizes, in both the 30- and 40-liter versions. Of the packs we’ve tested, this one (with its included load-adjuster straps at the top, to prevent the bag’s weight from sagging toward your lumbar region) is the best at distributing its weight (4½ pounds when empty—roughly 1½ pounds more than most of our other picks, except the Peak Design ). The hip straps are removable if you need, but the shoulder straps are not stowable.

• Its straps don’t stow away. Some people, especially those who are hard on their gear, may consider not being able to remove or stow the shoulder straps (as they can with our other picks, like the Cotopaxi Allpa ) a disqualifying factor. But after years of testing, traveling with, and occasionally checking our bag, we haven’t had an issue. However, if these mysteries beneath the airport also make you nervous, you might prefer our picks with easy-to-stow straps, such as the Peak Design.
• It's heavy. We’ve fielded complaints from some testers who said that older models of this bag were too heavy for them to carry, even with the padded hip belt and adjustable straps. The additional padding does add weight. At 4½ pounds, this latest Tortuga bag is more than half a pound lighter than it used to be (the difference is noticeable), and it weighs the same as the equally large Peak Design pack. We are currently testing a new, lighter, and less-expensive version of this pack—aptly named the Travel Backpack Lite 40L —and will report back soon.  In the meantime, if you think you would struggle carrying the Tortuga, we strenuously encourage you to consider one of our more-manageable picks, like the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L.

Capacity: 40 liters Weight: 4½ pounds Main compartment access: clamshell opening Style: minimal, with a rigid construction Color: black

If you want to travel like a backpacker but also fit in at a board meeting (and you have the budget for it): Consider the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 45 . This bag’s reputation for durability, adaptability, and a low-key aesthetic make it a favorite among many dedicated one-bag travelers. And after testing it, we think it’s a great bag too. That said, for the bag to really stand out against other backpacks—and to take full advantage of its carrying adaptability—you need to buy the internal frame , the hip belt , and (if you’re traveling with a suit or jacket) the shoulder strap . On a bag that already costs $330, all of this adds up. Everything about the Tom Bihn bag (the fabric, the zippers, the quality of construction) feels like an upgrade from other bags, but it’s simply too pricey, and its design is too rarified and specific for most people. The biggest flaw, from our perspective—apart from the price—is that the Tom Bihn bag lacks a dedicated laptop pocket. In its place, the company sells laptop sleeves (a fine version if you don’t have one) that clip into the bag’s central compartment. Not everyone needs a dedicated laptop pocket, but we prefer the more secure feeling of bags that do.

If you want a budget pick (but only when it’s on sale): The eBags Mother Lode Travel Backpack (our former budget pick) is still your best budget option, if you can catch it on sale for at least half off the list price. It’s not comfortable enough for trekking long distances on foot, but there are plenty of external pockets for organization, a laptop sleeve (which holds the weight of your computer high up on your shoulders), and an easy-to-access main compartment. This pack also has the largest capacity of any bags we tested, expanding to 65 liters—well beyond any airline’s regulated 45-liter limit. However, the bag’s casual-to-basic looks might not be to everyone’s taste. In 2024, eBags raised the price of the Mother Lode to $200. We have seen it on sale for $100, and in our opinion it’s worth getting only at the sale price.

We’ve narrowed our specifications for a great bag to the following list of features, ordered from most relevant to least:

• Front- or back-panel loader or clamshell opening, for the main compartment: As with any good piece of luggage, with this type of bag, you should be able to open it and see everything you’ve packed. When you have a bag with a panel-loading or clamshell design—rather than a traditional, top-opening design—you can pack and unpack it just as you would a suitcase.

• Backpack strap comfort and design: You never know when you’ll be walking farther with your bag than you’d intended. The more comfortable and well designed the straps are, the easier traveling will be. “Ideally, you want a bag’s shoulder straps to adjust to the angle of your shoulders,” said Eytan Levy of Snarky Nomad. “Good shoulder straps are the difference between an easy trip and a hard trip.”
• Hip-belt comfort and design: A hip belt transfers heavy loads from your back and shoulders onto your hips, letting your legs—not your back—bear the brunt of the weight. Just having a waist belt is a plus, but having a padded and sculpted one—especially on bags with over 40 liters of volume—makes a world of difference.
• Material quality: Durability is critical for any type of luggage, but especially for a backpack that will be your only bag. Most bags worth considering are made of nylon, which resists abrasion more than polyester fabrics of similar density. Spending more, however, can get you exotic, light, and strong materials, such as Dyneema or sailcloth.
• Weight: Once the bags arrived, we weighed each one ourselves. Most of the bags weighed within a few pounds of one another. But unless you’re very strict with yourself, by the time you’re packed for a two-week journey, all bags are going to feel equally massive, even if one is just 2 pounds heavier than another when empty.
• Stowable straps: These are nice to have, but they aren’t absolutely necessary. “The more often you need to check a bag, the more often you need to hide away the straps,” Levy said. “But if the straps are tough enough, it doesn’t matter.”
• Accessory pocket layout and design: Some people will love an accessory pocket that has a specific space for everything; others may find that feature constricting and unadaptable. We prioritized bags with simple designs that guided our packing without constraining us.
• Style: This is purely subjective. We preferred bags that had a minimalist exterior style, but not all of our picks will please everyone. Most of the people we spoke with, however, preferred not to stick out like a tourist wearing a large, colorful backpack, if they could avoid it.

During testing, we flew across the country with these bags, took weekend trips to nearby cities, lived out of them on extended trips, and tried them locally in our daily routines. We also packed and unpacked each bag, using a standardized set of weeklong travel necessities and accessories, to see how well the internal organizational features (or lack thereof) aided or got in the way of efficient packing.

This is not a comprehensive list of all of the carry-on travel backpacks we have tested. We have removed any models that have been discontinued or that no longer meet our criteria.

The Away Outdoor Convertible Backpack 45L is a rare miss from the Away team. This bag is resoundingly average for the price. Although it’s made from excellent materials, the bag is let down by its overall design, which lacks any kind of structure or attention to comfort. There are better options.

The cheap, no-frills Cabin Max Metz bag is intriguing for the price. Any bag at this price should almost be considered disposable. That said, if you need a simple bag that costs less than a seat upgrade, this might be the way to go—unless you can pick up the eBags Motherlode bag for under $100, which we think is a better deal at that price.

The GeniusPack Travel Backpack is the only model we came across that tried to fit a suit into a travel backpack. Though some people might need that, we think those who have to travel with a suit (or clothes that require pressing) would be better off with a piece of carry-on luggage . GeniusPack now offers a second version of this bag, but our conclusion hasn’t changed.

For certain people, the GoRuck GR3 is almost worth the cost. It’s strong and simple and covered by an iron-clad repair guarantee. The removable hip belt is comfortable to wear, and it’s good at displacing the weight of a 45-liter backpack. This is a decent bag. After testing it, however, we weren’t thrilled with the internal Velcro lining for compatible Velcro packing cubes. Velcro isn’t great: It wears out, it’s difficult to keep clean, and it clings to dirt. That might seem like a small thing, but for the price, this bag should feel perfect.

The Minaal Carry-On 2.0 was designed to be a backpack for business people. But if you’re carrying it for business, you’re probably wearing at least a blazer, so you wouldn’t use a backpack in any case. If you’re a business traveler who falls more on the casual end of the business-casual spectrum, and you’re not on a budget, this is a well-thought-out pack. But we think our picks are more versatile for world travel, and they come at a better price. Minaal has since introduced a 3.0 version of this bag ; our thoughts about it remain the same.

The Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L is a slightly larger sibling of the Farpoint pack. The Sojourn Porter bag is about 2 inches longer, and it pushes right up to most airline limits. If you don’t mind possibly having to check your bag at the last minute, this would be an excellent alternative to the Farpoint pack.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Chase Reeves, Matterful.co , phone interview , October 10, 2018

Addison Ryan, moderator, r/onebag , email interview , September 8, 2018

Lindsay Lorraine Calderón, moderator, r/heronebag , phone interview , September 28, 2018

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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Whether you’re going away for a weekend mini-break or embarking on a round-the-world tour, our pick of the best travel bags will help you choose the right luggage to stow your belongings in.

Less formal or conventional than suitcases (but if you want one of those, see T3's  guide to the best suitcases , best carry-on luggage , or best backpack ) travel bags are generally lighter, less structured are more flexible, some can even be folded flat so you can stow them easily in a cupboard or under the bed when you reach your destination.

Of course, if you're planning on going on holiday soon, then you might also want to check out our guide to the best travel stroller if you're travelling with little ones.

How to buy the best travel bag for you

Why you can trust T3 Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test .

Travel bags come in a variety of styles, including weekend bags, duffels, holdalls and totes. They are usually made from leather, canvas, tough ballistic nylon, or even waxed cotton and are equipped with zip fastenings (as opposed to suitcase-like hinged locks).

The large travel bags also come with wheels to make them easier to move around. 

Look for bags with rubberised or waterproof zips and plenty of pockets for storing smaller items. It also helps if they have reinforced corners to help them cope with the inevitable rough and tumble of life on the road. 

Keep an eye out for travel bags with lifetime or long warranties or guarantees too – that way if your bag does fail to measure up to the tough times ahead, you may be able to get it repaired or replaced for free.

Most importantly, purchase a bag that you find attractive – these are just as many statement pieces as they are practical items of luggage.

Let’s get started…

• Best beach bags

The best travel bags to buy today

1. Burberry Checked PVC Holdall

Specifications, reasons to buy.

The Burberry Holdall is a compact, lightweight travel bag that’s ideal for weekends away – or even trips to the gym. It comes with a main zippered compartment; plus an internal zippered side pockets for storing your valuables. The PVC is reinforced with leather panels, and you can alternate between the structured top handles and adjustable shoulder strap when navigating airport security. Yes, it's on the more expensive side, but it's a worthy investment which will serve you well.

2. Raf Simons + Eastpak Canvas Holdall

Eastpak has teamed up with Belgian fashion designer Raf Simons to create this stylish and practical duffle bag. It's made from black canvas and trimmed with hardwearing vinyl, this 50-litre duffle will fit right in in a First Class lounge, as well as the locker room at the gym.

The Raf Simons + Eastpak bag comes with main zipped compartment, plus there are no fewer than four external side pockets for storing for items you need to get fast access to – like your phone, passport and travel documents.

Inside, the bag is lined with Blade Runner inspired lining, and includes an internal zippered section for more valuable items. With its stylish design, use of quality materials and utilitarian nature, the Raf Simons + Eastpak Canvas Holdall is worth every penny.

3. Montblanc Sartorial Jet Shell Duffle Bag

Montblanc is a German luxury goods company that specialises in quality leather items for jetsetters – and this sleek duffel bag does nothing to diminish its world-class reputation.

Available in Black, and only Black, the Montblanc Sartorial Jet Shell Duffle is made from a combination of black saffiano-print calf leather and water-and-scratch resistant black nylon fabric with a satin finish.  It features two carry handles and a removable shoulder strap. 

Inside, there's a spacious main compartment, zipped pocket and two open pockets. It is undoubtedly sleek and stylish, but the bag is also tough and well-made, making it ready for all the travelling adventures you care to throw its way.

4. Barbour Wax Cotton Holdall

Reasons to avoid.

Associated in the public imagination with a certain kind of Britishness, the Barbour wax jacket is famously practical and hard-wearing. And this medium-sized cotton holdall has those associations in spades. Not only is it made from the same Olive Green waxed cotton material, but the bag is even lined with Barbour’s Classic Tartan.

Ideal for a weekend away – preferably to a country retreat – the bag comes with leather handles and trim, antique brass fittings and a detachable shoulder strap. Inside you’ll find two inner zip pockets for storing valuables: the perfect place for a hip flask, maybe?

5. Tom Ford Leather Holdall

Tom Ford served as the creative director at Gucci and Yves Saint Laurent before starting his eponymous brand in 2006. This leather holdall is one of our favourites, crafted in Italy from firm full-grain leather that'll disguise wear and tear, and comes with a detachable shoulder strap too.

The understated design will make it blend right in in the business lounge, but it's also casual enough to to take into town or on a weekend trip. The capacious interior features three well-sized pockets to keep you organised.

The holdall is completed with a luggage tag for your credentials, and a lockable zip.

6. The North Face Base Camp Duffel Bag

Available in seven distinctive colours – Black, Red/Black, Gold/Black, Black/White, Thyme/Falcon Brown, Tibetan Orange/Exuberance Orange and Cayenne Red/Regal Red – the North Face Base Camp Duffel Bag is the perfect travel companion. Made from tough ballistic nylon, it comes with both padded side handles and a removable shoulder strap so it’s easy to carry around. 

Its 69 litres capacity is split across two compartments: the zippered main compartment comes with zippered mesh sections at one end and in the weather-resistant top flap; while a separate second end-cap compartment can be used for storing wet clothes, water bottles and other gear. 

The North Face Base Camp Duffel Bag also comes with side pockets for storing your phone, wallet and other items for fast, easy access. The bag also comes with a waterproof ID pocket on top — ideal for putting your name, address or destination in a prominent place.

To get the best deal, browse our The North Face discount codes . 

7. Loewe Canvas Holdall

Founded all the way back in 1846 in Madrid, Loewe is known as the gold standard in fine leather construction and crisp prêt-a-porter. Current designer Jonathan Anderson has been instrumental in the brands revamped look and draws inspiration from his time in Ibiza as a child; describing the style as, ‘forward and free’. This is expressed in the motif lead pop prints and a kaleidoscopic colour palette of Loewe.

This Loewe holdall is a perfect example of that. It's one of the lightest travel bags on this list, made from durable canvas, so you can toss it in the trunk or overhead bin without a worry. The pastel blue will help you stand out from the crowd, while the complementing navy leather trim adds a bit of class.

Inside you'll find a herringbone lining, and enough space to hold a weekend's worth of clothes. It has handy internal pockets for your travel documents or chargers, and features twin carry handles, and a removable shoulder strap.

8. Eastpak Leatherface Large 2-Wheel Duffel

Eastpak started life making bags for the US military — so it knows a thing or two about making tough, long lasting bags for travellers. The Eastpak Leatherface Large 2-Wheel Duffel is no exception.

Available in four different colours (Black, Black Denim, Sunday Grey and Dot Grey), the Eastpak Leatherface Large 2-Wheel Duffel comes with a huge 98-litre volume — enough for an extended trip away. It also has three side pockets for stowing smaller items and travel documents, plus an inside zippered pocket for valuable items.

Made from tough, water-resistant polyamide, the Eastpak Leatherface also comes with two recessed wheels and a telescopic handle (which can be hidden out of sight) for those times when you’d rather tow it than carry it. It also comes with padded carry straps and a 30-year guarantee.

9. Mulberry Heritage Scotchgrain Weekend Bag

Mulberry's Heritage collection was designed as a tribute to the early bags of Mulberry's heritage, which were inspired by English country pursuits. The Weekender is the perfect overnight bag for your next trip, featuring a full zip closure, practical belted front pocket for easy-to-get essentials and two sturdy top handles.

It is completed with one main zipped compartment, exterior slip pocket at the back, external slip pocket at the front secure with a Sam Browne stud, one luggage tag embossed with the Mulberry signature and an adjustable and removable webbed shoulder strap.

10. Coach Metropolitan Leather Gym Bag

This bag from Coach is ready to tackle the gym or a weekend trip away. It's constructed from supple cow leather and trimmed with contrasting tan suede. It's structured but still casual and sporty, making it the ideal all-purpose bag.

It's designed to transport all your necessary essentials, features plenty of slip pockets to keep you organised, and can be carried by shoulder or by hand.

11. Sandqvist Jordan

The next time you jet off on a business trip or a 5-star weekend in somewhere exotic, you might want to consider taking this premium weekend bag with you. 

Made from vegetable dyed leather and available in two different colours – Black Leather and Cognac – the Sandqvist Jordan comes with two padded carry handles and an adjustable shoulder strap, and has two external pockets for easy access to items like your phone and travel documents.

Although the bag is relatively small at 33 litres, it also comes with two internal canvas pockets to help you get that bit more organised. And if your budget doesn’t run to this premium version, the Sandqvist Jordan is also available in less expensive cotton canvas and waxed cotton canvas editions.

12. Herschel Outfitter Luggage Wheelie

With its 81-litre capacity, the Herschel Outfitter Luggage Wheelie is an ideal travel companion for anyone who needs to pack in as many possessions as they can – and still look reasonably stylish doing so. This duffel certainly abounds with neat touches, including pebbled leather carry handles and zip pulls, two quiet-running urethane wheels and a soft-touch neoprene covering on its telescopic handle.

Available in six different colours / designs: Black, Black Gridlock, Raven Crosshatch, Eclipse Crosshatch, Woodland Camo and Peacoat Parlour, so you’re bound to find one that suits your style.

The only thing we don’t like about this case is the lack of lockable options – you’ll need to buy your own padlock, for sure.

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As the Style and Travel Editor at T3, Spencer covers everything from clothes to cars and watches to hotels. Everything that's cool, stylish, and interesting, basically. He's been a part of T3 for over seven years, and in that time covered every industry event known to man, from CES and MWC to the Geneva Motorshow and Baselworld. When he's driving up and down the country in search of the greatest driving roads, he can be found messing around on an electric scooter, playing with luxury watches, or testing the latest fragrances.

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Holdalls & Weekend Bags

Rains Hilo Weekend Bag , Green

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The 8 Best Rolling Duffel Bags for Your Next Trip

Gain the portability of a duffel with the convenience of a rolling suitcase.

Gear-obsessed editors choose every product we review. We may earn commission if you buy from a link. Why Trust Us?

Duffel bags are great for throwing over your shoulder and stuffing into overhead bins on planes, but it doesn’t take long for your shoulder to hurt if you’re lugging a full bag. That’s why we love rolling duffels—bags that give you all the portability of a duffel bag with the option of rolling it across smooth surfaces.

We’ve tested and vetted all of the best rolling duffle bags on the market to help you find your next travel companion.

What to Consider

The most obvious decision regarding which rolling duffel bag to get is its size, particularly whether or not you want checked luggage or a carry-on bag (which is typically up to 22 x 14 x 9 inches). Aside from that, consider how much clothing and gear you usually travel with.

For some duffels with a more fixed shape, how full the bag is doesn’t really matter. But for duffels with more flexible designs and those without telescoping handles, the bag’s maneuverability might change if it’s overpacked.

To fit the most clothes in your rolling duffle bag, think strategically. Start with the big items first ( snowboard jackets , pants, etc.). Roll these up and put them on one side of the bag. Then, work your way through the rest of the bag in sections with socks, underwear, shirts, pajamas, and any other gear you need. If you have some spare room left, you may fit a few toiletries in there, too.

Most rolling duffels have a similar shape akin to an average carry-on bag. However, rolling duffel bags with more of a square shape are usually easier to fit in overhead bins and, often, easier to wear as a backpack , for those that come with double straps. Bags with a rounded, circular shape—the traditional shape for a duffel bag—have more of a vintage look but can be harder to pack or find small items in in a pinch.

Most buyers probably don’t pay too much attention to materials, but you should if you’re an active traveler. Look for outer materials that are made with tear-proof and water-resistant details like ripstop, reinforced nylon, and watertight zippers. Last but not least, if you regularly overpack, zoom in on online photos to make sure the zippers look strong and durable before you purchase.

Portability

While there’s something to be said for simplicity, holding all the weight of a packed duffle on one shoulder will probably result in a sore neck after about 20 minutes and some unwanted aggravation. That’s why we love modern-day rolling duffel bags, which have wheels in addition to handles and straps, so you can roll through airports but sling it on your back to go up stairs.

Most of the options we recommend have pull-up handles. A few even have backpack straps to free your hands for extended travel over uneven surfaces. Just remember that a pull-up handle and built-in backpack straps may eat into your storage space inside the duffel.

How We Selected

As a freelance adventure travel writer, Suzie Dundas, who originally authored this piece, has used various rolling duffels for years. She’s broken duffel bag straps in the Japanese Alps and dropped her carry-on in the Indian Ocean during ferry transfers, so she’s real-world tested plenty of duffel bag features. She has tested travel and outdoor gear for brands like TripSavvy , Insider , Backpackers , and Forbes . Dundas tested many of these bags while traveling, and if she hasn’t used it, she’s tried other luggage from the same brand.

To narrow down the list, we relied on our knowledge of useful features gained through years of frequent travel through various airports and countries. We looked at materials and projected durability, whether bags had clever features (like hide-away straps), and whether reviews mentioned any ongoing problems or issues. We also took into consideration things like sustainability, price, guarantees, warranties, and whether a brand’s other products are generally reliable and well-received.

REI Co-op Big Haul Recycled 34-Inch Rolling Duffel Bag

If you’re hitting the road for a multi-week trip and need one bag capable of holding it all, pick up the REI Co-op Big Haul roller duffel. The 34-inch version has one huge main compartment with built-in straps to keep your gear in place (though packing cubes wouldn’t hurt).

Small, secure external pockets and mesh inside pockets provide enough space for smaller items, and two small pegs on the front allow the bag to stand upright on its own, rather than slowly tipping forward like many flexible roller bags.

Samsonite Andante 2 Wheeled Duffle Bag

This is a larger rolling duffle bag that airlines will consider a checked bag because of its size. With that said, you can fit a lot in this bag with its drop-bottom compartment that allows you to keep your belongings organized and separate when packing. And since you’re spending a pretty penny to travel, you’ll want to make sure your belongings (and bag) stay in pristine condition.

This duffle has corner protectors to prevent the unwanted wear and tear that typically accompanies travel—extra bonus points right there. Lastly, there are multiple grab handles so in the case you don’t want to or can’t roll the bag, you can easily grab and carry it without hassle.

Briggs & Riley Medium Upright Rolling Duffel Bag

At close to $500 with tax, the Medium Upright duffel from Briggs & Riley certainly isn’t cheap. But over a lifetime, spending just $500 on a bag may be a net savings. The Medium Upright Duffel comes with an ironclad guarantee: The brand will replace or repair the bag for basically any reason, including “airline damage” or “ any reason whatsoever .” And this particular duffel is quite useful, too.

One of our travel pet peeves is a roller bag whose pull-up handle takes up storage space—but this one doesn’t, helping you make full use of the bag’s ample space. We also think the complimentary monogramming is a nice touch.

Thule Crossover Wheeled Rolling Duffel Bag

Thule may be relatively new to the luggage game, but it’s not surprising that one of its first introductions is already a top contender. After all, you may trust Thule cases with your expensive ski, bike, and outdoor sport gear, so why not trust them with your clothing and dirty shoes, too?

The Crossover wheeled duffel has useful features like exterior compression straps and a clamshell-style design, plus a huge top zipper so you can get to your gear without fully unpacking. While it is a bit pricey, it’s definitely worth the investment if you’re in need of a good, durable duffel back that will last a long time.

RedCamp RedCamp Foldable Rolling Duffel Bag

The Deuter Aviant duffel has a lot of competition, but it scores high marks on all the categories that matter for a carry-on rolling duffel bag. With just under 40 liters of space, it’s as large as it can be while still meeting official carry-on requirements.

The short-and-squat shape, combined with a generous amount of compression straps, makes it easy to shove into overhead bins. And like the Eagle Creek Gear Warrior, it also has tuck-away backpack straps, though the lack of a hip belt may make it slightly less comfortable for long-distance wear.

VERAGE Spinner Carry On Underseat Luggage with USB Port

If you need a rolling duffel but live in a studio apartment, you may not be willing to give up the limited real estate in your closet to accommodate a new bag. Fortunately, the Verage duffel rolls into a relatively small 17-inch package and comes with a useful storage sack—and a USB port to charge your phone.

It’s also ultralight, which makes it a good bag to throw into your luggage if you plan on bringing home more than you packed. It has the feel of a hardside bag without the limitations.

Skyway Luggage Co. Sigma 6.0 Medium Rolling Duffel Bag

While you probably want to keep your valuables on you while you travel as a personal item, in the case that you need to put them in your carry-on or checked bag, you’ll want to make sure they are as secure as possible. This rolling duffle bag has lockable zippers so you can rest assured your items aren’t going anywhere.

Aside from having a spacious interior, there’s roomy side pockets, protective skid rails, and a hideaway telescoping handle for easy navigation. It’s only available in one color so if you’re looking for one that isn’t black, you’ll want to look elsewhere.

Calpak Travel Stevyn Rolling Duffel Bag

This lightweight rolling duffel bag is ideal for those shorter trips where you don’t need to pack as much, but still need a bag large enough to carry your belongings.

It’s a great bag to bring in addition to a checked bag with its luggage trolley sleeve, bottom shoe compartment, and rolling wheels. It’s available in a few neutral colors from pink to black making it easy to spot whether up above on the plane or at the baggage claim.

Duffel Bag Packing Tips and Must-Have Features, According to Our Expert Suzie Dundas

What makes a bag a duffel?

If you give it a quick online search, you’ll see that the word duffel comes from the town of Duffle, Belgium, where a factory started making burlap-type bags in the 1800s. But they didn’t catch on in the United States in a big way until World War I, when the rugged, over-the-shoulder bags were standard issue for soldiers.

Today, duffel is a pretty broad term, but it generally means any durable, soft-sided bag with a shoulder strap and carry handles. They’re popular for situations where bags may get scratched or tossed around, like on safaris or on trips with lots of train or bus travel.

What features are most useful in a rolling duffel?

Aside from the obvious—wheels—I strongly recommend choosing a rolling duffel with a pull-up handle. It makes the bag slightly heavier and more rigid, and the frame may eat a bit into the interior storage space.

But without a handle, you’ll have to pull your roller duffel by one of the bag’s handles. It may work if your bag is packed enough to maintain its shape, but if it’s not full, your items will shift to the bottom and cause the bag to slouch over. It’s fine for car trips but rather annoying if you’re traveling through airports.

I’m a big fan of packing cubes , so I don’t care too much about pockets or interior organization. But if you don’t use packing cubes, you may want to choose a bag with some smaller pockets to make it easier to stay organized while traveling.

Any packing tips when using soft-sided suitcases?

While soft-sided suitcases offer plenty of protection for the vast majority of buyers, you may want to pay extra attention to how you pack if you have fragile items, like any coffee mugs or art you picked up while traveling.

I usually use a few pieces of clothing as a buffer, wrapping them around the delicate items. If your bag is full, your items should stay secure and not bounce around. I brought home a ceramic sake set and a tea set from Japan, with two international connections, and nothing was damaged.

Casey Clark is a freelance journalist who specializes in beauty, health, and style-related commerce content. She graduated from Hofstra University with a degree in journalism. Her work has been published in Women's Health , Forbes , Better Homes & Gardens , and more.

Originally from the East Coast, Suzie Dundas is a Lake Tahoe-based freelance writer and editor who now splits her time between enjoying the outdoors and writing about them—she's the senior outdoor editor at Matador Network and a regular adventure and travel contributor at TripSavvy.com . She has written feature stories for publications like Outside Magazine , SkyLife Magazine , Playboy , Frommers, INSIDER, and more, and contributes couples travel and honeymoon content for TheKnot.com . Suzie co-authored Lonely Planet Sustainable Travel Guide and is the author of 2021's "Hiking Lake Tahoe." She has undergraduate degrees from the University of Maryland and an M.A. in media and political communication from George Washington University. Follow her on Instagram at @HikeUpYourSkirt or find more of her work at suziedundas.com . 

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12 of the best new duffel bags for travelling

Easy to pack, versatile enough to cram into overhead compartments on planes and sturdy enough to strap to mules, yaks and overlanding trucks – enter the duffel…

Duffel or duffle? You’ll see both spellings out there, but the name of the original is Duffel – named after the town in Belgium where the cloth that made the first ‘holdall-type’ bags came from. Now it’s used generically to describe a style of bag and is spelt both ways. Fabric: Ripstop, water-resistant, abrasion-resistant, weatherproof – you’ll see a host of these terms bandied around when it comes to duffel material. For travel, you need something that stands up to heavy handling, so look for durable fabric. Water resistance is good, but will add weight. Remember, anything with a zip – even if it is a coated zip – is never fully watertight. Extras: Some keep it simple with a large main compartment only. Others use dividers inside or offer pockets (both internal and external). It’s a matter of personal choice. Remember, extra pockets can help organise, but will add weight. Weight: The more durable and robust – or the more water-resistant – the more likely the unpacked weight will be higher. Think about what you’re more likely to use the bag for: is it for water activities or use in wet climates? Then water-resistance will be key for you. Is it for porter-assisted trekking or overlanding? In which case, a robust, heavy-duty fabric is a must. Or is it just as a way to pack fast when staying in hotels on a road trip? Then a lightweight fabric that packs down small will do. Carry system: Traditional duffels were all about the shoulder strap or two grab handles. Now many offer alternative methods of carrying, such as rucksack straps or even wheels for ease of use and versatility. Do remember that extra straps all add weight. Removable straps are handy. Zips: Look for chunky, sturdy zips that won’t break easily – the ability to lock them is also handy.

Stowaway Duffle 50L From £29

In Brief Design: ★★★★✩ Features: ★★★✩✩ Comfort: ★★★✩✩ Versatility: ★★★✩✩ Value: ★★★★✩ Overall: ★★★✩✩ rohan.co.uk

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The 7 Best Duffel Bags of 2024

The Best Duffel Bags for 2024

Gearing up for the next trip and need a duffel to get you there? Since 2010, our team of experts has bought, traveled with, and tested over 55 of the best, most popular, and most interesting duffel bags on the market. In this update, we round up 15 of the most promising models that are available today. We hauled these bags across the globe for weeks at a time to evaluate their durability, weather resistance, organization, and ease of transporting. We threw them on trunks, checked them at airports, crammed them in lockers, and strapped them to the backs of pack animals. We've covered it all, whether you're looking for a bag for your next adventure, a sleek bag for a weekend getaway, or just a durable everyday duffel.

We've tested all types of the top-rated travel bags , from the best luggage and best carry on luggage to the best travel backpack and even a huge variety of the best backpacks for any scenario. And whether you're traveling near or far, we've got you covered with our travel packing list .

Editor's Note: Our duffel bag review was updated on April 10, 2024, to provide details about our testing protocols and offer buying advice.

Top 15 Duffel Bags - Test Results

Best overall duffel bag, patagonia black hole duffel.

• Storage and Ease of Packing 8.6
• Ease of Transport 8.5
• Protection 8.5
• Construction Quality 9.2
• Weight-to-Volume Ratio 6.1

No matter which size you look at, there are not many downsides to the Black Hole . We did find that the closure wrap for the suitcase handles — the piece of material that lets you secure them together — uses button snaps that are difficult to use, especially in a hurry. We also wish that there was a smaller internal or external pocket in the bag for small items to aid with organization. Nonetheless, these complaints are minor when looking at this excellent and high-scoring bag. But if you prefer to keep your small items organized for easy access on the go, the HYC00 Travel offers three internal pockets to keep things neat and tidy.

Read more: Patagonia Black Hole Duffel review

Great Value for a Rugged Adventure Duffel Bag

Gregory alpaca.

• Storage and Ease of Packing 8.5
• Ease of Transport 8.2
• Protection 8.3
• Construction Quality 9.1
• Weight-to-Volume Ratio 4.0

The Alpaca scores well across the board in our testing and shows no significant weaknesses. The only notable drawback is that the suitcase handles are oddly large, especially for the smaller-sized options. They don't detract from use while carrying it but can dangle and get caught on things when not wrapped up. Overall, the Alpaca is still one of our favorite bags and offers excellent value. If the thought of dangling suitcase handles strikes a nerve, the Thule Chasm can help reduce irritation by removing the detachable straps.

Read more: Gregory Alpaca review

Best Duffel Bag On a Tight Budget

Hyc00 travel.

• Storage and Ease of Packing 6.5
• Ease of Transport 5.5
• Protection 4.5
• Construction Quality 6.0
• Weight-to-Volume Ratio 4.5

The HYC00 is one of the heavier bags that we tested when comparing its weight-to-volume ratio. While it is easy to access and store items, this isn't a traditional duffel-style design, and the main compartment requires some digging through to reach items on the bottom. Although the HYC00 is comfortable enough for a short walk, its suitcase handles and single shoulder strap aren't the most comfortable if the bag is overweight or you're traveling a significant distance while carrying it. But, for a daily bag or weekend getaway, the HYC00 is a great bag at a great price. We also like the more durable Herschel Novel for short trips — it has a larger capacity, though fewer pockets for organization. For the long haul, the comfortable carrying system of the Osprey Transporter will likely suit you better.

Read more: HYC00 Travel bag review

A Great Oversized Duffel Bag on a Budget

Rei co-op roadtripper.

• Storage and Ease of Packing 5.0
• Ease of Transport 3.8
• Protection 6.5
• Weight-to-Volume Ratio 9.5

The Roadtripper 's lightweight design is owed to its thinner material and simple construction. It also lacks many “ fancy ” features found on higher-end models, like backpack straps, compression straps, internal pockets, or extensive daisy chains. While the fabric and zipper are sturdy enough for most general use, they may not withstand the abuse that the more robust adventure-ready duffels can endure. But for basic use, the Roadtripper is a versatile, lightweight, affordable option. If you are shopping for a duffel with high-end features but a reasonable price tag, check out the Gregory Alpaca or the Cotopaxi Allpa Duo .

Most Comfortable Duffel Bag Carrying System

Osprey transporter.

• Storage and Ease of Packing 8.0
• Ease of Transport 9.0
• Protection 8.8
• Construction Quality 7.5
• Weight-to-Volume Ratio 7.4

The Transporter is quite comfortable in backpack mode, but it lacks the traditional briefcase-style carry handles found on most duffel bags. While the comfortable and heavy-duty grab handles help compensate for this, we appreciate carrying systems with more options. Although this bag contains both an interior and an external zippered pocket, their awkward placement makes them less useful. Built for hauling heavy loads in comfort and style, the Transporter makes an excellent choice for those who prioritize backpack-carrying capabilities. If you want a backpack-optional duffel with more pockets and organizational features, check out the Cotopaxi Allpa Duo . If you prefer a duffel with traditional briefcase-style handles, The North Face Base Camp is a great option to consider.

Read more: Osprey Transporter review

Best Simple and Rugged Expedition Duffel Bag

The north face base camp.

• Storage and Ease of Packing 7.0
• Ease of Transport 7.2
• Protection 9.2
• Construction Quality 9.8
• Weight-to-Volume Ratio 6.6

The primary drawback of the Base Camp is its strap arrangement. The grab handles and traditional briefcase-style straps are permanently affixed and are straightforward to use, but you must thread the shoulder straps through a doubled-back buckle to remove or replace them. Many airlines require you to remove duffel bag straps, and so this adds a somewhat tedious task each time you hand off or collect your luggage. Also, the thick material shows scuffs more than other models and has a more practical look than some more elegant options. But for a simple, dependable bag that can take you to all seven continents with ease, the Base Camp is our top choice. Another option to consider is the Patagonia Black Hole Duffel , which also boasts a durable design but has far more quickly removable shoulder straps.

Read more: The North Face Base Camp review

Best Sports and Gym Duffel Bag

Adidas defender small.

• Storage and Ease of Packing 5.5
• Ease of Transport 5.0
• Protection 6.0
• Construction Quality 3.0
• Weight-to-Volume Ratio 8.8

One drawback to the Defender is that the material and stitching are not as robust as we'd like to see on a bag, specifically one designed to be tossed around on buses, lockers, and muddy fields. While we love the dual-sided pouches, we do wish they were just a little larger. It will fit one pair of shoes, but there isn't much room to spare, especially if the bag is already full or your shoes are longer or bulkier. Despite that, we think this bag is a great choice for everyday use for the gym, courts, or sports practice. But for expeditions and rugged adventures when durability is essential, The North Face Base Camp is the one we'd reach for first.

Read more: Adidas Defender duffel review

Best Rolling Duffel Bag

Osprey sojourn shuttle 100l.

The Osprey Sojourn Shuttle 100L is the new favorite rolling duffel bag of our suitcase testing team. This backpacking-inspired bag holds a ton of gear securely within, keeping everything in place with its external straitjacket-like compression system. Made of 460D and 500D high-tenacity recycled ripstop nylon and a metal frame supporting its structure, this bag is built to withstand the rigors of travel. A telescoping handle hides below the end of the bag, sliding out easily to let you roll the Sojourn, with its large wheels and thick tread, easily over even the most variable terrain. No more having to carry your duffel on your back or along one side.

Though the big burly zippers of the Sojourn Shuttle are well-designed to withstand the trials of being crammed full and sent through airline checked baggage systems, that added bulk makes them a bit harder to operate. It lacks the back rails of many other suitcases that would let it slide more easily up each step in a staircase. And though it's built to last, the price tag on this enormous rolling duffel can be tough to stomach. However, if you often find yourself slinging heavy gear in a duffel bag, this rolling monster is worth the investment. We also loved the Eagle Creek ORV Trunk 30 , a similar style of roller bag just with slightly different organizational features and a marginally different price tag.

Read more: Osprey Sojourn Shuttle 100L review

Best Dry Bag Duffel Bag

Yeti panga duffel 50.

Sometimes adventure takes us into truly adverse weather conditions, and for those times, water resistance isn't enough. If you're looking for a fully waterproof dry bag and duffel bag hybrid, the Yeti Panga 50 fits the bill. Its durable laminated high-density nylon is completely waterproof, and the opening seals shut with a HydroLok zipper. With RF welded seams, this duffel keeps the water out and the air in, even when fully submerged. For this reason, it is our go-to bag for protecting sensitive electronic equipment in wet conditions. This Yeti has a healthy amount of webbing and attachment points, plus shoulder straps, so you can just as easily carry it through the airport as lash it to an inflatable raft.

These premium features and protection come at a hefty price point and a high weight for a dry bag. The Panga tips the scales at 5.2 pounds. It is also one of the more expensive duffel dry bags that we tested, but for peace of mind, sometimes that price is worth it. These downsides are probably tolerable if you're looking to protect valuable electronics and equipment in a wet environment, or if you need the versatility of one bag to meet any potential needs. The Watershed Colorado Duffel is another 100% waterproof dry bag we love to use, with a slightly more flexible design and a lower price tag, though it is a little more involved to seal against the elements.

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How We Test Duffel Bags

The legwork for this review began well over a decade ago when we first researched and tested duffel bags on some wild expeditions around the world in 2010. Since then, we've kept up with the duffel market, continually getting the top duffel bags and even testing multiple iterations and sizes of our favorite models. For each iteration and update, we select the best, most popular, and most interesting duffels on the market to purchase and take into the field for extensive hands-on testing. In addition to surviving our lab testing, some bags have gone on climbing trips to the French Alps, got dragged across glaciers in Alaska, found themselves stowed in the forest in Patagonia, and hauled paddling gear to the Indian Ocean. We've also tossed them in the back of cars for weekend adventures, sports practice, road trips, workouts at the gym, and Ironman races. To learn more about our testing process, check out our How We Test article.

• Storage and Ease of Packing (30% of overall score)
• Ease of Transport (30% of score)
• Protection (15% of score)
• Construction Quality (15% of score)
• Weight-to-Volume Ratio (10% of score)

Why Trust GearLab

This review is brought to you by several longtime GearLab contributors: Maggie Nichols , Miya Tsudome , Nick Bruckbauer , and Hale Milano . Maggie has been an avid adventurer and backcountry guide for over 15 years. She has taught courses and skills in the Galapagos and South Africa, guided trips in the Virgin Islands and the American West, and spent months visiting far-flung places like Svalbard and Senegal, living out of her duffel bag. Miya is a climber, professional mountain guide, and photographer based in California's Eastern Sierra and can regularly be found hauling gear to and from her favorite climbing crag. Nick has a competitive running background and is an all-around outdoorsman. He has snorkeled in Thailand and the Maldives, trekked in Nepal, skied in Alaska, and climbed and skied 14ers in Washington, California, and Colorado. Hale is a Type-II fun junkie and gear addict, who has climbed in Norway, snowboarded across the Swiss and Italian border, trekked solo through Patagonia, and dove shipwrecks in Vanuatu. He's traveled to over 30 countries and lived out of duffel bags for months at a time. Maggie, Miya, Nick, and Hale all regularly use duffel bags to haul their belongings and gear on their adventures around the world, and they know what it takes to make a great duffel bag for journeys near home or on the far side of the globe.

How to Pick the Best Duffel Bag for You

Below is an excerpt from our complete duffel bag buying advice .

Why Choose a Duffel?

Duffel bags offer a utilitarian approach to carrying luggage that provides more versatility than traditional hardshell bags. Using a duffel while traveling provides more room for gear and clothing while offering a lighter form than other luggage styles. When looking at the world of duffel bags, it's important to consider the type of travel you need a duffel for. Some folks may need a multi-week bag capable of carrying an array of gear, while others just need a simple bag to carry clothes to work, the gym, or school.

What Size Works Best?

Once you know the style of duffel you need, it should help naturally lead towards the appropriate volume. Typically, a duffel bag under 40 liters is suitable for quick, overnight trips, while a duffel in the 50 to 70-liter range will work well for weekend trips. Bags in the 80-100 liter range work great for longer trips over a week or more but can usually avoid tipping over that 50 lb airline weight limit. For those with specialized gear or extended travel, bags upwards of 150 liters are worth considering.

What Features Should You Look For?

Certain features can make or break a good duffel bag. Consider the different carrying strap styles, such as shoulder straps, hand straps, or backpack straps. If you plan on walking extended distances and carrying larger loads, it's a good idea to consider duffels with backpack-style straps. Internal organization features, such as pockets and compression straps, can also provide easier access to belongings and secure them from moving around inside the bag. Consider your typical travel routines and luggage contents to find a bag with the most useful features for you.

Is Durability Important?

Depending on your travel style and intended use, a duffel bag with proven durability can be a high priority. This is especially true for folks who plan to travel into weather-prone areas, camp or hike with their duffel, or just want extra security when checking in their bag at the airport. Look for waterproof materials and coatings, reinforced areas around the bag, and the material itself.

Analysis and Test Results

To help you find the best duffel bag , we evaluated every product in our lineup across five essential performance metrics. We used the overall weighted scores to determine our top rankings. To learn how each bag performs in specific areas, read on.

The price for duffel bags ranges greatly from the least expensive to the most expensive bag. Generally, prices tend to correlate with the size of the bag and the quality of the material it is made from. The Patagonia Black Hole is one of the pricier models in our lineup, but its sticker price is only slightly higher than the high-value Gregory Alpaca . Aside from the more expensive Mountain Hardwear Expedition , there is a very minimal price spread among the seven or eight top-scoring adventure duffels in our lineup. All of these products have robust materials and high-quality designs, so it is easy to justify their expense.

On the other end of the spectrum, the HYC00 Travel and REI Roadtripper are among the least expensive duffel bags in our entire review. Although the size, durability, and versatility are compromised compared to the more robust products mentioned above, both have their own merits. The HYC00's design makes it perfect for weekend car trips, and the REI Roadtripper's low weight and large capacity design make it a good choice for hauling lots of gear. Among our smaller-sized duffels, there is a more noticeable price spread that is dependent mostly on the quality of materials used and the bag's construction quality.

Storage and Ease of Packing

While most of these duffel bags have plenty of capacity to haul heavy loads for extended durations, each model has different nuances that impact its storage efficiency, organization capabilities, and ease of packing. In this category, we first compared each bag's overall storage compartment and how easy it was to load with both typical travel items and oddly shaped equipment. We considered whether the bag held its shape while empty to aid in packing and whether straps, flaps, and zippers got in the way. We also analyzed how useful smaller pockets or compartments were for keeping gear organized and the ease of accessing both the smaller pockets and the main compartment.

After dozens of trips to the field and direct side-by-side comparisons in the lab, we nearly always prefer the big D-shaped zippered openings rather than the straight “ I ” style zippers. Many of the larger duffels we tested have D-shaped openings, which makes it much easier to access the contents of your pack and securely fit more cargo since the flap can fold completely out of the way. Smaller duffels tended to have I-shaped openings, which were easier to zip but limited accessibility. Some of the most travel-focused options have heavy-duty zippers that can be locked and zipper pulls to help close up bags packed to capacity.

Our testers appreciated the unique packing system of the Mountain Hardwear Expedition , which features a main zipper that zips all the way out to flaps on either side of the bag to create an extra large opening, as well as a stiff collar on the inside that can be folded out for easy, unencumbered access to the interior.

A bag's ease of packing is an important feature, and everyone has struggled to zip closed a fully stuffed bag when it is overloaded just beyond its capacity. In this case, we appreciated the internal compression straps found on many of the bags, including the Osprey Transporter , Patagonia Black Hole , and Mountain Hardwear Expedition . The Expedition also features an exterior compression strap that helps even more when struggling to close an overstuffed bag — simply tighten the strap down and zip from either end for a stress-free packing experience.

The majority of bags we tested feature cavernous internal storage compartments well equipped to haul a ton of gear or clothes. While that's all fine and dandy, a few internal or external zippered pockets are crucial for avoiding smaller items getting lost in the abyss. It's even more necessary for separating wet shoes or dirty laundry.

The most impressive bag we tested when it comes to pockets is the Cotopaxi Allpa Duo , which has eight extra pockets (three internal and five external), plus a full-length laundry compartment on the bottom.

The Thule Chasm has two massive mesh pockets on the bottom side of the lid and a third hanging inside, plus an external pocket on top. Similarly, the Patagonia Black Hole 100L , the REI Big Haul , the Gregory Alpaca 90L , and the Mountain Hardwear Expedition 100 each have one external pocket and two internal pockets. The smaller versions of both the Black Hole and Alpaca lacked dedicated external pockets, but we loved the zippered mesh pouches on the inside of the lid.

While they don't win any competitions for storage or small organization compartments, we need to give credit to both The North Face Base Camp and the REI Roadtripper for the sheer volume and depth of their main compartments and their ability to pack away large quantities of equipment.

If huge volume is what you're after, many of the bags we tested are also sold in 100-liter sizes and larger, including the Patagonia Black Hole available in sizes up to 100 liters, the 104-liter Amazon Basics Large Nylon , the Osprey Transporter , Gregory Alpaca , REI Big Haul that can be purchased as large as 120 liters, the Thule Chasm (up to 130 liters), the Mountain Hardwear Expedition and REI Roadtripper (up to 140 liters), and The North Face Base Camp, which is made as large as 150 liters.

Our last standout from our storage and organization tests is the HYC00 Travel bag. Although we weren't fans of the I-shaped zipper that limited accessibility and overall storage space (tapering the bag at the top), we loved the internal organization pockets. The HYC00 has a dedicated lay-flat storage compartment underneath for shoes or clothes, two internal zipper pockets, and three internal mesh pouches for organizing small items. It also holds its shape relatively well, even when empty.

Ease of Transport

Part of what separates duffel bags from other luggage styles is that they are typically available in much larger sizes that can make them difficult and awkward to lug around. They're also designed to make transport more manageable. Each bag we tested may employ up to four distinct carrying systems: traditional briefcase-style carry handles, backpack straps, over-the-shoulder slings, and grab handles (wheeled duffels are in our best luggage review). Each of these carrying methods can be useful depending on the situation and length of travel. Grab handles are convenient for hauling into or out of vehicles or luggage racks, and briefcase-style grips and shoulder slings are ideal for carrying a shorter distance and when you have other pieces of luggage to haul. Backpack straps are the most comfortable and efficient method for heavier loads or over longer distances. Daisy chain attachment points make it easier to lash a bag to a vehicle, cart, or pack animal, and easily removable straps help protect your investment from wear and tear during air travel. If you want to go extra fast and light or need to carry your belongings over longer distances, you might want to consider one of the best travel backpacks instead.

Many of the adventure duffels in our lineup have included backpack straps, making them easier to carry when fully loaded. Different models have slightly different strap geometry, padding levels, and adjustability ranges. The Osprey Transporter goes above and beyond in this category. It has the most comfortable backpack carry system, including well-padded shoulder straps and an adjustable chest strap. The backpack harness on the Transporter can be quickly stowed inside its storage compartment on the top lid and easily deployed again with only two side release buckles. While this bag does not include traditional briefcase-style carry handles, it has four heavy-duty padded grab handles — one on each end — that make it simple to lug around or to carry by your side for moderate distances. Even as one of the larger bags in our lineup, the Transporter is a breeze to load up and haul out.

The Thule Chasm is another impressively comfortable backpack carry model. Though it lacks the sternum strap of the Osprey Transporter , the Chasm's backpack straps are very comfortable. They quickly detach with a T grip at the top and plastic buckles at the bottom for easy conversion. It also features snaps on the sides to hold the suitcase-style handles out of the way when you don't need them.

Not far behind is the Mountain Hardwear Expedition with its supremely comfortable backpack straps. The Patagonia Black Hole , Gregory Alpaca , The North Face Base Camp , Cotopaxi Allpa Duo , and the REI Big Haul also have reasonably comfortable shoulder straps for carrying heavy loads over longer distances. All of these models also have traditional briefcase-style carry straps and reinforced grab handles on their sides and ends for versatile carrying options.

Most of the larger products we tested forgo a traditional single, messenger-style shoulder sling in favor of the more comfortable and efficient backpack straps. Sometimes, it's just easier to sling the bag over your shoulder, though — like if you're only carrying for a short distance or if you're hauling multiple pieces of luggage at once. You can adjust the length of most of the backpack straps to make it easier to sling the bag over a shoulder, although frequently, the padding doesn't line up correctly to protect your shoulder, or the bag's balance feels awkward. The Patagonia Black Hole has highly adjustable shoulder straps and extended padding, both of which help facilitate comfortable carrying on one shoulder. The Mountain Hardwear Expedition also includes a convenient shoulder sling carry option with adjustable strap systems.

Smaller bags in our lineup, like the Peak Design Travel 35L , HYC00 Travel , Adidas Defender Small , and Herschel Novel forgo backpack straps entirely, featuring the quick one-shoulder sling and suitcase handles that are ideal for lighter weight bags and shorter carrying distances. While most are fixed options, the Peak Design handles and straps are all able to be adjusted to one of ten attachment points around the bag. It's slightly tedious to do so, but it does provide some customized carry options.

Both the 100-liter REI Roadtripper and the 104-liter Amazon Basics Large Nylon duffels are impractically large to be carried backpack style, not to mention they lack any rigidity to support the weight. Both of these bags have a beefy shoulder strap that lets you lug them to the car, if arduously.

If you've traveled to far-flung destinations around the world, you've probably seen your luggage strapped down to some form of transportation. During the years of testing for this review, we've had duffels carried by llamas, mules, horses, snowmobiles, motorcycles, campers, small prop planes, and helicopters. We've also pulled them ourselves, lashed to a sled deep in the Alaskan wilderness. Most of the products in our test group feature robust daisy chains (externally mounted webbing with sewn loops) that are versatile and easy to use to securely attach your duffel to various modes of transportation. Other single attachment loops, large grab handles, or permanently affixed shoulder straps are also useful when you need to secure your load.

Most of the highest-rated products in our lineup include daisy chains or some kind of external attachment loops. The Patagonia Black Hole , Gregory Alpaca , Cotopaxi Allpa Duo , and The North Face Base Camp all stand out for their robust and extensive daisy chain features. The Thule Chasm , REI Big Haul , and Mountain Hardwear Expedition are also noteworthy with their sturdy, reinforced daisy chain loops that are thicker and stronger than most.

Counter to the beefy and reinforced adventure-style duffels, the Adidas Defender , HYC00 Travel , and Herschel Novel are all smaller bags that rely on their lightweight and compact size to make them easy to transport. With an impressively low weight, the Adidas Defender is particularly easy to toss over your shoulder, under a bus seat, or in a locker.

Whether you're loading up the vehicle on a damp day, anxiously cringing as airport personnel toss around your bag on the tarmac, or slogging through boggy or snowy conditions, protection from mother nature and bumps along the way is crucial. We took these bags on worldly expeditions to challenging climates like Denali, Bolivia, Aconcagua, Central Chile, and Patagonia. Additionally, we tested them on road trips, camping trips, and beach outings. We sat them outside during a tropical storm to test for seepage over several hours of light rain, along with putting them through the wringer by running systematic tests involving drenching them with a high-pressure garden hose with dry towels and clothes inside.

The rankings for weather resistance look relatively similar to our durability ratings — bags with heavier-duty materials tend to perform better. One difference is that models with multiple exterior pockets and additional zippered closures are a bit more vulnerable to the outside elements. Simpler designs with fewer openings offer better protection. The North Face Base Camp scores well with its 1000-denier material and limited vulnerabilities. After our high-pressure hose test, the dry paper towels inside it showed no signs of water intrusion. The Osprey Transporter scored equally well and only had a few drops of water intrude through the zipper area. Both bags have a one-inch protective flap where the top lid overlaps the main zipper. While neither bag has sealed seams to make them waterproof like a true dry bag , they both provide excellent protection from the weather.

Several of the remaining top contenders all scored similarly well in this performance metric. The Patagonia Black Hole , Gregory Alpaca , and the Thule Chasm all provide exceptional protection from the elements. The Black Hole and Alpaca passed the long-duration exposure to the elements just fine, with water beading right off their 900-denier fabric. Both did, however, succumb to water leaks via their zippers during the high-pressure hose test. The Thule is one of the few duffels to have a sealed external zipper, something we really appreciated for a phone or keys.

Most of the remaining bags in our lineup, like the Herschel Novel , Cotopaxi Allpa Duo , and REI Roadtripper , have waterproof or water-resistant fabrics but don't have sealed seams or waterproof zippers. All of these bags will repel some light rain, snow, splashes, and spills but won't withstand extended downpours or complete submersion.

Construction Quality

Almost all of the contenders in our lineup are super durable, made from robust materials, with reinforced bottom panels and heavy-duty seams. Most of the bags we tested are constructed from a high-denier laminate or high-denier ballistic nylon. Denier (also denoted as “ D ” behind a number) is the measure of a material's thread thickness and density, and a higher number corresponds to a thicker, sturdier, more durable fabric. Our lineup includes a wide range of possible bag fabrics, from heavy-duty expedition packs made of 1000-denier materials plus additional reinforced areas to easily compressible nylon bags. We are also pleased to note that many of the bags leverage recycled materials as well.

The tried and true The North Face Base Camp set the tone for durability decades ago with its burly 1000-denier body material, and a similar heavy-duty construction has spread to several other manufacturers. Many of the top models in our fleet used at least a 900-denier nylon or polyester material throughout the duffel, with an additional reinforcement layer of at least 600-denier nylon on the bottom or other high-wear areas. One of our testers has used a Base Camp duffel on over 20 rugged expeditions to remote locations and in extreme conditions, and it's still going strong.

With fabrics ranging from 840 to 900-denier, the Patagonia Black Hole , Gregory Alpaca , Thule Chasm , Cotopaxi Allpa Duo , Osprey Transporter and Mountain Hardwear Expedition are similarly sturdy. This level of fabric thickness is still very robust and can withstand a lot of abuse. All of these bags also have strongly reinforced seams and include sturdy hardware. The Black Hole and Alpaca also feature ripstop fabric to protect you against a worst-case scenario.

Another standout in our construction quality metric is the Herschel Novel , constructed from 600-denier fabric and a liner that is made from 100% post-consumer water bottles. Not only do we love the eco-friendly materials, but this fabric felt durable and looked incredibly stylish. The seams and hardware on the bag are of excellent quality as well. While we might not want to strap it down to a muddy vehicle or drag it behind us, we're confident that the Herschel would stand up to the wear and tear.

The Peak Design bag is a very impressive model and clearly has a high level of craftsmanship and design that went into its creation. We'd feel just as comfortable using it to lug gear around as to pack up for a business trip. It, too, used a 100% recycled 600-denier canvas and a thicker bottom liner. While we had no complaints about the overall construction quality upon examination or issues regarding its durability, we were disappointed to note that the supposedly weatherproof zippers failed to stop water into the bag and side pockets. This led us to slightly doubt the overall construction quality of the bag. Nevertheless, we still thought the Peak Design felt durable and well-made.

Weight-to-Volume Ratio

Once you've filled a duffel bag full of gear, you may not notice the initial weight of the bag. However, it can make a difference when you're trying to stay within an airline's weight limits or when the transportation switches from vehicles to your own two feet.

Since this lineup includes tested bags ranging from 30 liters to 104 liters in size, we calculated the weight-to-volume ratio for each bag to measure its relative weight.

Our two top-scoring bags for our weight-to-volume metric are two of our largest. The REI Roadtripper and Amazon Basics Large Nylon bags weighed in at 1.6 pounds and 1.8 pounds, respectively, and each offered roughly 100 liters of internal storage space. Their excellent ratio is thanks to their stunningly simple design and a lack of extra features, fabric, and pockets found on many of our more rugged bags. Still, if you're looking for bulk hauling capacity and don't require much protection from the elements, these are both great options.

The Adidas Defender is one of the lightest bags in our lineup but offers significantly less storage space than other bags. This ultralight 1.0-pound bag still boasts enough space to pack anything you might need for the gym or practice session without weighing you down.

The Osprey Transporter , Mountain Hardwear Expedition , and Eagle Creek Migrate are all rugged adventure bags that still offer a good tradeoff between weight and storage volume. They are constructed from medium-thickness fabrics, providing a nice balance of durability and weight savings.

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The 11 Best Weekender Bags of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

These are the best weekender bags rated on capacity, design, portability, durability, and overall value.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips For Buying

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Whether you’re embarking on a romantic getaway or a girls' trip, a weekender bag can make packing easier and traveling a breeze. We tested a variety of weekender bags in our lab and judged the best options based on portability, durability, design, and more.

Throughout multiple lab tests, we've tested more than 70 weekender bags the last few years to continuously update our list of the best weekender bags based on our extensive testing. First, we test the bags in the lab, paying special attention to organization, capacity, and notable features. We pack the bags full, carry them around for extended periods of time, and throw them around to test for durability. After initial testing, we send them for our Travel + Leisure team to test on their travels out for up to six months to get more insights. Here are the 11 best weekender bags for all types of getaways.

Best Overall

Away everywhere bag.

The bag is sleek and spacious with room for at least four or five days’ worth of clothes.

The shoulder strap is slightly difficult to adjust.

Away’s The Large Everywhere Bag earned the top spot on our list of the best weekender bags due to its minimalist design that allowed effortless, organized packing. This clamshell-style duffel bag is equipped with enough space for nearly a week’s worth of clothes and pockets for just about any travel essentials. The interior has one main compartment for bulkier items like clothes or shoes, and the inside of the opening flap has three mesh, zippered pockets for storing undergarments or other small items. We loved the exterior padded laptop pocket that could easily fit not just one but two laptops, if needed. The bag had no issues when we tested it for durability by throwing it off a table multiple times, which leads us to believe that the water-resistant material and sturdy build will hold up well with prolonged use. We had a little trouble adjusting the shoulder strap, but both the strap and the leather top handles are padded and comfortable whether you're holding or wearing the bag.

You can choose from three matte colors including black, navy, and a lighter coastal blue. If you’re traveling on a longer trip, this Away duffel bag has a built-in trolley sleeve in the back that can easily slip onto the handle of a roller bag. Whether you’re traveling for business or on a vacation, we think Away’s The Large Everywhere Bag is a functional and modern travel accessory fit for your next adventure.

The Details: 20.9 x 11.8 x 9.4 inches | 3.8 pounds | Nylon and leather

Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph

Best Personal Item

July carry all weekender.

It's small enough to fit underneath an airplane seat if needed.

It could use a few more pockets for organization.

This July weekender is the perfect smaller bag to bring with you as a personal item on a flight if you already have a carry-on. It really can "carry all" of the essentials you would need for any length of a trip, whether that be a laptop up to 16 inches long or a cozy travel blanket . In testing, the minimalist nylon bag could fit enough clothes for a two-night trip at most since it's on the smaller side. However, we were able to squeeze in a laptop in addition to the clothing thanks to the designated laptop pocket. We think it could use a few more pockets for storage, but for the smaller size, the bag was still easy to pack and carry. After three months of use, our Commerce Testing Editor Jackie Cucco still found it to be a sturdy and durable option for a personal item.

The Details: 18 x 10.5 x 8.5 inches | 2.2 pounds | Twill nylon | 16-inch laptop pocket

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Best Expandable

Longchamp le pliage expandable travel bag.

The tote has an expandable zipper to add more or less space as desired.

It only has two small slip pockets on the inside.

We're big fans of Longchamp's Le Pilage collection, especially this expandable weekender bag. At first glance, it looks like a regular Longchamp tote, but it features a discrete expandable zipper that adds an extra 20 liters of space, meaning the bag can be a whopping 70 liters if desired. We were able to fit more than enough clothing and accessories for a four-day long trip with the expandable zippered undone. For added versatility, the bag is the perfect size for commuting to the office or flying with it as a personal item since it's the size of a typical tote bag. Made with lightweight polyamide canvas, we had no issues carrying the bag around with the leather tote straps or removable shoulder straps. The only downside to this tote is that it doesn't have pockets, which means you'll have to use your own pouches to stay organized on the go.

The Details: 17.7 x 13.8 x 9.1 inches | 1.56 pounds | Recycled polyamide canvas, leather

Best Water-resistant

Monos metro duffel.

The bag feels lightweight even when it’s packed, and the straps are comfortable to use.

The detachable toiletry bag was slightly hard to get on and off and can feel bulky.

Monos’ The Metro Duffel is a compact weekender bag that impressed us with its roomy interior that fit all of the designated packing items during our tests. There wasn’t much room leftover, but despite being packed nearly full, the bag remained lightweight and easy to carry with the comfortable shoulder strap and top handles. We appreciated the detachable toiletry bag that latches onto the front of the bag, and although it was a little difficult to get on and off the bag, it was reassuring to know that the toiletry bag won’t come off easily while traveling.

During our durability tests, the bag did not get scratched at all when we tossed it around, and the detachable strap remained secure throughout. Unfortunately, the section of the bag that holds the strap fell apart after a couple months of use, but we were sent a replacement right away (covered by the two-year limited warranty) which has fared well during trips since. The bag has a large zippered pocket on the opposite side of the detachable pouch, and there are several interior pockets to store water bottles and smaller items, including a designated laptop sleeve. We especially love that this bag is water-resistant, so you don't have to worry about it getting ruined if you get caught in the rain.

The Details: 16.3 x 11.2 x 7.2 inches | 3 pounds | Water-resistant nylon

MZ Wallace Nik

The quilted material is sleek and effortlessly stylish.

The removable shoulder strap isn't padded, so it wasn't as comfortable to carry.

MZ Wallace is known for bags made with stylish puffer quilted fabric, so we love that its Nik weekender looks just as nice as it is functional. The bag has a whopping 16 pockets on the inside and outside of the bag including designated pockets for technology and water bottles. We're big fans of the bag's organizational features, but we also like that it can fit enough clothing for a weekend getaway. After three months of testing, we found ourselves using this bag for trips no longer than one or two nights — while the pockets are fabulous, there's just not enough space to pack for a lengthier getaway. The material is lightweight and the tote straps are comfortable to carry for long periods, but the removable shoulder strap could be more comfortable if it was padded. And if the bag ever feels heavy, it has a pass-through luggage sleeve so you can prop it up on a roller bag for superior portability.

The Details: 16.93 x 12.2 x 7.09 inches | 2.1 pounds | REC Oxford, leather | 16-inch laptop pocket

Best Colors

Calpak luka duffel bag.

The puffer-style duffel bag comes in a variety of neutral and bold color options.

The shoulder straps were more comfortable to use than the crossbody strap.

Calpak makes tons of stylish luggage for travelers who love a pop of color (including us), so we're fans of this puffer bag. With 20 color options ranging from bubble gum pink to neutral oatmeal, the extensive list of colors is the perfect opportunity to add a unique shade to your luggage collection. Besides the intriguing colors, this bag scored highly in testing thanks to its spacious interior for packing items for a two or three-day excursion. It has nine helpful pockets for storing socks, undergarments, technology, and more, and it boasts a trolley sleeve and a designated shoe pocket on the side of the bag — everything to win over our editors . We also found it easy to keep clean and odor-free, even after three months of testing. The puffer polyester material is super lightweight, so the bag is a breeze to carry, but we did prefer the shoulder tote straps rather than the removable crossbody strap since the latter was a tad less comfortable.

The Details: 16 x 12 x 7 inches | 2.1 pounds | Polyester

Best Budget

Hyc00 travel duffel bag.

The straps are very comfortable to carry the bag over the shoulder or with the top handles.

It’s smaller and better suited for a short weekend trip.

The HYC00 Travel Duffel Bag has all the pockets and compartments needed to efficiently pack for a weekend trip. The interior compartment could easily fit two pairs of pants, four shirts, a pair of shoes, and a toiletry bag, and there was a little bit of room leftover for a few more shirts. The bag is lightweight, weighing just 1.3 pounds, and we loved how comfortable it was to carry with the shoulder strap or the tote bag handles on the top. We liked the design of the bag with three pockets on the inside, including a wet bag pocket for traveling with a swimsuit. The exterior has two buckles on each end of the bag for compressing or extending the height, as well as a front zippered pocket for storing a phone or wallet while traveling.

After six months of regularly using the bag, we really liked that the fabric is easy to wipe down after a trip to clean up any spills or dirt. The bag is made of water-resistant nylon with plastic-lined pockets, making it extra easy to clean if anything is spilled on the inside or outside. There are over a dozen colors to choose from including light pink, pale blue, and olive green.

The Details: 21.7 x 10.6 x 7.09 inches | 1.3 pounds | Water-resistant nylon

Best for Outdoors

Peak design travel duffel.

It’s a durable, lightweight bag that can be converted from a duffel bag with a shoulder strap to a backpack.

The straps could be a little more padded for added comfort.

If the outdoors is calling your name, the Peak Design Travel Duffel 35L is the best weekender to choose whether you’re camping, glamping, or taking a road trip. Made of weatherproof nylon canvas, this duffel bag is equipped with a waterproof lining at the bottom and weatherproof zippers, too. The shape of the bag and hardware remained intact after we tossed it around to test for durability, and the hardware and weather-resistant fabric feel very high quality. The shell of the bag has an athletic style; we feel the material resembles a hiking or outdoors-specific backpack versus a more polished piece.

This bag has one main compartment that fits enough clothes for a weekend, and there are two internal mesh pockets and four external pockets for storing additional items as well. It comes with detachable, padded shoulder straps that you can convert from a shoulder strap to backpack straps. While the straps were comfortable to wear once adjusted, we thought there could be a bit more padding for extra comfort. This bag is a great value for people looking for a very lightweight, weatherproof, easy-to-carry bag that will last a long time.

The Details: 22 x 14 x 10 inches | 2 pounds | Recycled 600D nylon canvas with leather accents

Best Organization

Béis the commuter duffle.

The bag has numerous pockets and compartments for packing efficiently.

This 24-liter bag is on the smaller size.

Finding a weekender bag with the ideal number of pockets can be difficult, but luckily, Béis has one that makes packing quick and effortless. This 24-liter bag has various pockets and storage for weekend essentials such as a laptop, shoes, clothing, a toiletry bag, a lighted travel makeup mirror , and more, helping travelers stay organized with everything in quick reach. Because it's on the smaller side for a weekender bag, we found it could fit all of the items on our two-day packing list with room left over. After three months of testing, we found that the trolley sleeve for placing the bag on a suitcase if needed held up well and that the tote handles and padded shoulder strap were still both comfortable. Durable and thoughtfully designed, this Béis weekender has everything we look for in a reliable travel bag.

The Details: 21.5 x 12 x 9 inches | 3.15 pounds | Nylon, PU, Polyester | 15-inch laptop pocket

Best Machine Washable

Vera bradley weekender travel bag.

The bag is machine washable which is nice for keeping it clean over time.

It’s small for a weekender bag and isn't the most comfortable to carry.

The Vera Bradley Weekender Travel Bag has a minimalist design and there are nine unique colors to choose from including olive green, lavender, mulled wine, and rouge rose. While this weekender impressed us with its sleek look, it performed equally as well during testing. The bag has enough room for clothing for a two- or three-day trip, but it didn’t have any room leftover after we packed it with two pairs of pants, four shirts, a jacket, a pair of shoes, and a toiletry bag. There are more than enough spots to safely tuck your items away, with five interior mesh pockets, two exterior zipper pockets, and two slip pockets on each end of the bag.

When we tossed the bag around to check for durability, it didn’t scuff or get scraped. After regularly using the bag for six months of travels, it still looks good as new. The best part of this bag is that the cotton fabric is machine washable — an ideal feature for prolonging the life of the weekender after use over time.

The Details: 18.5 x 12.5 x 7.5 inches | 100 percent cotton with 50 percent recycled cotton

Best Splurge

Lo & sons catalina supreme.

Lo & Sons

The spacious bag has special features that make it easy to pack your life away.

The large size might not be best for shorter trips, and it can be bulky to carry.

Luggage can be pricey, but after testing this weekender from Lo & Sons, we're confident that this bag is worth the investment. It's filled to the brim with thoughtful features that are sure to make packing and traveling much more smooth. With 47.5 liters of space, the main compartment fits all of the items on our four-day packing list with plenty of room left over. Hands down, our favorite part of the bag is the separate bottom compartment that comes with removable dividers so you can pack it full of bulkier items or organize it in sections. If you're not a fan of the bottom compartment, there is a flap that unzips to open it up to the main part of the bag to pack it as desired. The poly material passed our durability tests, so we expect this bag to last for a very long time, which helps justifies the higher price point.

It is one of the largest bags on the list, which can make it bulky to carry for long periods of time — an issue that we continued to run into after three months of use. We also found that the messenger strap needed frequent readjusting when the bag was packed full.

The Details: 19.7 x 15.5 x 9.5 inches | 4 pounds | Recycled poly, leather | 16-inch laptop pocket

Other Weekender Bags We Liked

We've tested so many weekender bags over the years, and while many made our list as top picks, there were others we liked that had — or lacked — traits that ultimately kept them out of our favorites.

L.L.Bean Utility Weekend Duffel Bag : We thought this roomy bag might make a better bag for the beach than a weekend trip as there aren’t many pockets for storing smaller items.

Rothy’s The Weekender : The best part of this durable bag is that it's machine washable, but we felt the price was a little steep at $549 compared to other options on our list.

Rains Bag : We appreciated that the material is completely waterproof, but the strap wasn’t cushioned, making it uncomfortable to wear for long periods (and there were no pockets on the inside or outside of the bag).

Cuyana Large Travel Bag : Although the material of the bag feels luxurious and sturdy, we felt that the handles were a little thin and flimsy. For a bag that is nearly $350, we would want to make sure it holds up over time.

Etronik Large Overnight Weekender : This spacious, water-resistant bag has a shoe compartment and comes with a bonus travel pouch. It's a steal at $50, but we were suspicious that the super lightweight material may not be the most durable.

Travel + Leisure / Nick Kova

We've tested over 70 weekender and duffel bags across several lab tests to continuously update this article with the best weekender bags on the market. To compare all of the bags, we follow the same methodology of testing and rating each bag on capacity, design, portability, durability, and overall value.

First, we packed the bags with either two or four days' worth of items (depending on the bag size) from our curated packing list that includes items like pants, shirts, jackets, shoes, laptops, and toiletry bags. The bags that scored a five during our capacity test were noted as being very roomy and fit all of the packing list items with room to spare. Next, we judged the bag’s design by analyzing the pockets and compartments on the exterior and interior, as well as checking each zipper to evaluate how well they work.

When each bag was packed, we walked around carrying it by the shoulder strap and tote handles. The bags that scored a five for portability were comfortable to carry and distributed the weight evenly. Then, we threw/dropped the weekender three to five times off a table to check the durability of the bag. We checked for scuffs, marks, and any damage to the items on the inside. After we finished testing the bags in the lab, we sent them out to our T+L team members to take on trips to see how they fare in the real world, too.

Tips for Buying a Weekender Bag

Consider the types of trips you take most.

If you’re planning on using a weekender bag for business trips, one with a built-in suiter or separate compartment for shoes would be a better fit — or even a garment bag that can easily convert into a weekender. For travelers looking to do short trips, be sure to note the size of the bag, as weekender bags don’t come in a universal size. Not all weekender bags come with trolley sleeves to place it on a rolling suitcase, so if you’re planning to fly with a weekender bag, you’ll want to note special features for air travel, like a laptop sleeve, a water bottle holder, or accessible pockets for chargers and wallets.

Think about the size you need

Whether you're a minimalist or an over-packer, the size of your weekender bag is crucial. Larger bags will need to go in the overhead bin space, but some people may prefer underseat luggage pieces or personal items that can supplement larger carry-ons . Personal items will be smaller in size, but can still worth perfectly for a weekend's worth of essentials.

It's also important to consider any, and all, organizational features. Oftentimes, bigger bags include pockets, separate compartment for shoes, and even packing cubes, so make sure whichever size bag you select suits your travel needs.

Prioritize durable materials

Weekender bags come in a variety of materials like polyester, leather, canvas, nylon, or cotton, and certain ones hold up better against wear and tear. If you’re taking a weekender bag on a guy's camping trip, for example, or anywhere outdoors, consider a weatherproof bag made of nylon or other water-resistant materials like polyester or coated cotton. To find out if the material is water-resistant or weatherproof, check the specifications listed by the manufacturer. 

It ultimately depends on the size requirements set by each airline for personal items. Most of these weekender bags are carry-on-approved (for the overhead bin), but it’s always best to check the airline’s website for their specific luggage dimensions. If you can fit the weekender bag underneath the airplane seat, it can be considered a personal item.

Some weekender bags we tested come with built-in organizers designed for packing items like shoes or suits. Depending on the items you’re packing, you can place everything in the main compartments to see how the items fit together, and if you need to create more space, you can adjust your packing strategy by rolling your clothes or using packing cubes to maximize the amount of space inside.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

T+L writer, Anna Popp , writes most of the team's tested articles, and participates in nearly every travel test. She has tried dozens of travel bags in the last three years and personally tested several on this list. Anna sifted through testing notes and used her extensive luggage knowledge to recommend the best weekender bags on the market.

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14 of the best holdall and weekender bags that offer style and practicality

Chic holdalls, duffles and canvas weekend bags to pack for a mini-break.

Weekend bags, or weekenders and holdall bags can help you pack light but you'll want to check out the most practical packing cubes and shoe bags , too.

Our pick of the most stylish weekend bags are ideal for carrying on one, two or three-night trips. They come in all shapes and sizes: a travel backpack is great for going hands-free, a wheeled bag is easy to transport, and a tote is great if you're looking for something to use at the beach. For something to fall in love with, you'll want to see our favourite leather weekend bag, too.

Each of these bags is as durable as it is chic, meaning you'll be able to take it away with you on every trip for years to come – without worrying about damaging or breaking it.

Best weekend and holdall bags for 2024:

BEST OVERALL AND GARMENT WEEKENDER BAG

Katie loxtoncheltenham garment weekend bag.

BEST DESIGNER WEEKEND BAG

Fjällräven weekender holdall.

BEST ANTLER WEEKEND BAG

Chelsea overnight bag in black.

BEST SMALL WEEKEND BAG

Helly hansen helly hansen unisex stockholm backpack, std, black.

BEST SPORTS WEEKEND BAG

Pro series pro series 40l duffel bag.

BEST CANVAS WEEKENDER BAG

The weekender.

BEST BACKPACK WEEKEND BAG

Fiorelli fiorelli anouk backpack black one size.

MOST VERSATILE WEEKEND BAG

Stm stm dux 30l premium tech backpack.

BEST CHELSEA WEEKEND BAG

Antler chelsea weekender.

BEST CASUAL WEEKEND BAG

Eastpak stand+ duffle bag, how we test weekend bags:.

Our editor and tester is a seasoned traveller with experience living aboard and solo backpacking. This means she knows exactly what to look for when finding the perfect travel luggage. She spent weeks testing many bags for practicality, materials, weight, style, and ability to fit items such as multiple shoes and laptops, paying close attention to standout unique features such as shock-proof casing and separate shoe compartments.

A weekend bag roundup wouldn’t be complete without a Katie Loxton bag. Especially not this fold-out one. This large handbag-style bag makes an ideal city break accessory. Designed for sustainability, it should maintain its shape for years to come. Coming in multiple colours, you’ll be spoiled for choice. I especially like the fact that you can add your initials to your bag via monogramming or embroidery.

Carry options: Handle, trolley Sleeve and overshoulder. Colour Options: Light taupe, black and off-white. Material: Pebble Vegan Leather. Dimensions: 29 x 54 x 26 cm. Other sizes available: N/A. RRP: £129.99.

Buy if: You’re travelling with an occasion outfit. Don’t buy if: You plan to travel with the bag on a budget airline as a personal item bag.

Well-known brand Fjällräven never fails to create a classy, long-lasting bag; this weekender bag is no exception. Offering a 30L capacity and heavy-duty handles, the bag can be worn in three ways: crossbody, hold-all, or backpack. The expandable front compartment is handy for keeping passports and phones while travelling. Coming in a wide range of Fjällräven signature colours the bag you'll be able to find a colour to suit any outfit. The bag may look small but can fit many items inside, ideal for budget airline baggage allowances.

Carry options: Crossbody, handle and overshoulder. Colour Options: Ochre, clay, ox red, pastel lavender, black, navy and frost green. Material: 100% vinylal. Weight: 650 g. Dimensions: 30 x 44 x 20 cm. Capacity: 30 l. Other sizes available: N/A. RRP: £185.

Buy if: You’re looking for a long-lasting bag. Don’t buy if: You prefer a bag with organisational pockets.

Antler is known for its quality suitcases, and its hand luggage is no different. The Chelsea Overnight Bag features include a separate compartment (adjustable for shoe size needs, big enough to fit boots) and high-quality zips for easy packing. I especially like the nylon's feel, the material which makes this bag long-lasting and water-resistant. Carry options: Handle, trolley Sleeve and overshoulder. Colour Options: Taupe, black, sage, navy and woodland-green. Material: Nylon. Weight: 0.8 kg. Dimensions: 41.5 x 26 x 18 cm. Other sizes available: N/A. RRP: £140.

Buy if: You’re looking to pack multiple pairs of shoes. Don’t buy if: You regularly fly with budget airlines.

Making the ideal unisex present for travellers or a travel-to-work bag. The roomy main compartment size can be adjusted at the opening of the roll-top bag. I recommend this bag for those travelling on public transport or by bike.

Carry options: Handle and backstraps. Colour Options: Deep dive, ocean, grey fog and black. Material: 100% Polyester Coating/100% Polyvinyl Chloride. Weight: 1000 g. Dimensions: 15 x 30 x 45 cm. Capacity: 28 l. Other sizes available: N/A. RRP: £65. Buy if: You're looking for an adjustable-size bag. Don’t buy if: You need a fully water-proof bag.

Perfect for athletes, this duffel bag offers a wide range of unique features, including an anti-microbial odour-reducing lining (ideal for your workout clothes), a stain-resistant coating, and sweat-reduction technology. The organized internal storage compartment includes a shock-absorbent laptop pocket. If you plan to travel with sports gear or equipment, this is the bag for you.

Carry options: Handle and overshoulder. Colour Options: Black. Materials: CorduraⓇ quad stitched fibres. Dimensions: 50 x 25.5 x 31.5 cm. Capacity: 40 l. Other sizes available: 60 l. RRP: £164.99. Buy if: You plan to travel with fitness equipment or gear. Don’t buy if: You don't like sporty designs.

Looking for a high-quality weekend bag? Look, no future. This bag boasts a premium leather handle, detachable and adjustable shoulder straps, a luggage sleeve, and so much more. It is ideal for city breaks, country breaks, and those travelling with a laptop. Coming in two sizes (40 l and 60 l), packing will be made easy.

Carry options: Handle, trolley Sleeve and overshoulder. Colour Options: All black, olive, pirate and navy. Material: Tekwax® canvas. Weight: 1.65 kg. Dimensions: 55 x 25 x 25 cm. Capacity: 40 l. Other sizes available: 60 l (Weekender XL). RRP: £165. Buy if: You want a high-quality bag. Don’t buy if: You want a lightweight bag.

The Anouk backpack by Fiorelli is one of the brand's best-selling styles. Available in two styles, it boasts adjustable straps and is ideal for travellers wanting a large, stylish backpack. The internal padding divider pocket is large enough to fit a large laptop, while the signature outside back zip pocket is ideal for keeping important documents such as passports. I recommend this bag for either travel or as a large work bag.

Carry options: Handle and backstraps. Colour Options: Black and Tan. Material: Faux leather. Dimensions: Bag = 42 x 31 x 15 cm. Shoulder handle = 50-90cm. Other sizes available: Small. RRP: £89. Buy if: You prefer carrying language on your back. Don’t buy if: You need a water-resistant bag.

Carry options: Handle and backstraps. Colour Options: Black, black camo and grey. Materials: Poly/twill. Weight: 1.78kg. Dimensions: 50.8 x 33 x 24.1 cm. Capacity: 30 l. Other sizes available: N/A. RRP: From £129.80. Buy if: You want to keep valuables such as a laptop safe from damage. Don’t buy if: You don't like bulky bags.

Made to perfectly fit all your weekend essentials in one place, Antler's Chelsea weekend bag is an excellent holdall.

Our favourite feature has to be the shoe pocket where you separate your footwear from the rest of your clothes, ensuring they stay clean.

There are also leather details and a padded pocket for those who need to keep their tech close, too.

Carry options: Handle, trolley Sleeve and overshoulder. Colour Options: Black, navy, taupe and woodland-green. Material: Nylon. Weight: 1.2 kg. Dimensions: 53 x 32 x 23 cm. Capacity: 39 l. Other sizes available: N/A. RRP: £160. Buy if: You often travel with a laptop. Don’t buy if: You're on a budget.

For a weekend bag that's super-lightweight, does what it says on the tin, and is versatile enough to use on a mini-break and to carry your gym gear, we love Eastpak's Stand+ style.

It folds away easily and comes with a compact pouch for no-fuss storing when you're not using it and it's the perfect cabin-friendly size if you need something that will fit within the guidelines of most airlines. Carry options: Detachable adjustable shoulder strap and handle. Colour Options: Black, black denim, blue and triple denim. Material: 100% Polyester. Dimensions: 25 x 53 x 24 cm. RRP: £46.52. Buy if: You're looking for a light bag. Don’t buy if: Organisation is important.

Kono Travel Duffel Bag with Cosmetic Bag

Looking for a cheap weekender with all the features of a designer bag? Try Kono's highly praised duffle bag that comes with a host of things to love.

It's water-resistant, contains a wet and dry bag to separate items easily, and you can unzip the bottom to expand the bag. The holdall has a trolley attachment strap on the outside, plus it has a matching cosmetic bag for you to pack all your beauty products in one place. Carry options: Handle. Colour Options: Beige, black, black and brown, grey, navy and pink. Material: Nylon. Weight: 500 g. Dimensions: 22 x 40 x 42 cm. Capacity: 36 l. Other sizes available: N/A. RRP: £23.99. Buy if: You're looking for a budget bag. Don’t buy if: You prefer carrying bags on your shoulder.

Aerolite Ryanair Cabin Bag

Travelling for just a night or two and need something that fits under your seat if you're travelling with Ryanair? Aerolite's Cabin Bag comes in a 40cm x 20cm x 25cm size, the exact maximum allowance for free baggage on Ryanair flights.

There's a lockable main compartment and a front zipped pocket for your travel documents, as well as handles to carry it by hand or a shoulder strap to go hands-free. Carry options: Handle and overshoulder. Colour Options: Black, charcoal, marine, rose gold and wine. Material: Weight: 0.45kg. Dimensions: 40 x 20 x 25 cm. Capacity: 20 l. Other sizes available: RRP: £15.99. Buy if: You often fly with budget airlines. Don’t buy if: You're looking for high-quality material.

Aspinal of London Boston Bag Black Pebble

For a leather weekend bag that lasts a lifetime, Aspinal of London's Boston holdall is handcrafted from fine full-grain leather with a gorgeous pebble finish.

Its soft structure and beautiful printed silk lining paired with sturdy handles and a detachable strap make it a both a practical and stylish choice. Carry options: Handle and overshoulder. Colour Options: Navy, black and tobacco. Material: Boston Leather. Weight: 1.94kg. Dimensions: 11 x 21 x 10 inches. Other sizes available: N/A. RRP: £795. Buy if: You're looking for a luxury travel bag. Don’t buy if: You're on a budget.

Cabin Max Metz 20L Backpack

This travel backpack was made to help you get the most out of your cabin space, packing in everything you need for a long weekend, from footwear to an extra dress.

It's just as great for camping trips in the UK as it is for checking into one of the best Airbnbs . It features 20-litre capacity and is ideal for travelling on low-cost airlines. Carry options: Handle and backstraps. Colour Options : Apache grey, aspen blue, atlantic blue, black clay, khaki, lavender, mango, navajo Blue, navy, nocturna, oxide red, paradise, petrol blue, sedum green, teal, terracotta, wood green and yellow. Material: Recycled polyester. Weight: 500 g. Dimensions: 40 x 20 x 25 cm. Other sizes available: 40 x 20 x 25 cm - hybrid. RRP: £29.5. Buy if: You often fly with budget airlines. Don’t buy if: You're looking for high-quality material.

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Protect Your Trip »

The 13 best weekender bags for women in 2024, tested & reviewed.

Despite its name, the weekender bag is ideal for a variety of trips.

The Best Weekender Bags for Women

Amanda Norcross | U.S. News

Although they're available in traditional duffel styles, weekender bags come in a variety of shapes and sizes, making them a luggage category of their own. Designed for overnight trips or a few days away, they can also be used as a personal item or carry-on bag depending on airline size restrictions.

Based on recent consumer reviews and our own testing, we've determined the best weekender bags for women – perfect for business, solo travel , girls trips , romantic weekend getaways and more.

Best Overall: BÉIS The Weekender

• Jump to features and expert insights ↓

Best Leather: Monos Metro Carry-All Duffel

Best with shoe compartment: calpak luka duffel.

• Best Quilted: Vera Bradley Large Travel Duffel Bag

Best Duffel: Dagne Dover Landon Neoprene Carryall Bag – XL

• Best With Laptop Compartment: July Carry All Weekender Plus

Best Rolling: CALPAK Luka Soft-Sided Mini Carry-On Luggage

Best organization: pakt one travel duffel – 28l, best for business: tumi voyageur contine weekender, best affordable: steve madden quilted weekender bag, best luxury: mz wallace nik duffel.

• Best Large: Lo & Sons The Catalina Supreme

Best Foldable: LOJEL Niru – 24H Overnighter

(Note: Prices and availability were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to demand and other factors).

Price: $108 or less

What started as a trendy bag is now a travel staple. The Weekender by BÉIS combines the right amount of style and efficiency, with features including a bottom compartment for shoes or other large items, a padded laptop compartment that can accommodate 13- and 15-inch devices, and a trolley sleeve. There's also a zippered exterior pocket, plus three additional pockets and a key leash inside. Largely made of poly canvas, The Weekender is structured yet provides just the right amount of "give" for squeezing those last-minute items in. The Weekender is available in a variety of colors and comes with a detachable strap.

What our editors say:

This is the weekender bag I didn't know I needed. To say it lives up to the hype is an understatement. – Amanda Norcross, Senior Content & SEO Strategist

Rachael Hood | U.S. News

Price: $260 or less

This vegan leather duffel has a classic look and is available in four colors, plus it provides numerous built-in organizational details. The exterior has a front slip pocket, and each end has a pocket with a magnetic snap closure. Inside, the bag features a soft cotton twill lining, a 16-inch laptop sleeve, a spacious zippered pocket and a slip pocket on each end of the bag.

For carrying, use the two top handles, the trolley sleeve, or the removable and adjustable padded strap. Made of ultra microfiber vegan leather, this structured bag resists scratches and abrasions, making it a standout choice for a leather weekender bag.

This vegan leather duffel exudes timeless luxury. Its structure makes it easy to pack, all of the pockets help keep you organized, and its polished look makes it appropriate for any getaway. – Rachael Hood, Senior Editor

Price: $128 or less

While you can find several bags with specific shoe compartments, the unique design of the CALPAK Luka Duffel stands out. The exterior zippered compartment makes it easy to reach your spare pair whether you're ready to put your walking shoes on or you need to access that pair of flats after a business meeting. When not needed, the shoe compartment lays flat on the interior of the bag to give you more room for your weekend getaway essentials.

Constructed with a lightweight polyester, the bag is structured but not bulky. There are nine pockets (including the shoe pocket), along with a trolley sleeve, two shoulder-length handles and a removable carrying strap.

To say I love this bag is an understatement. I bought it a couple of years ago for my wedding, and it's been a go-to ever since. I adore the shoe compartment, which works well for flats or sneakers, and it lays flat if I don't need an extra pair of shoes. There's tons of organizational pockets, it has a trolley sleeve, it works as a personal item on a flight, and it's cute! – Rachael Hood

Best Quilted: Vera Bradley Large Travel Duffel Bag in Cotton

Price: $120 or less

Vera Bradley's Large Travel Duffel Bag remains a classic choice for weekender bags. Available in a variety of patterns and solid colors, the latest cotton version of this bag includes four exterior pockets (one zipped, three slip) for easy access to the essentials, plus three elastic mesh pockets inside. The quilted material makes it especially lightweight as well as washable. Note that this same style in performance twill is slightly smaller, at 20 x 12.5 x 11.5 inches.

I love the simplicity of this bag. It holds everything I need, and after more than a decade of use (and several trips through the washing machine), it's still in excellent condition. – Amanda Norcross

Leilani Osmundson | U.S. News

Price: $245 or less

The stylish yet durable Dagne Dover Landon Neoprene Carryall Bag in the extra-large size stores 35 liters of belongings and comes with a shoe bag, a detachable mesh pouch and a crossbody strap. If that's not enough, you'll find several mesh pockets inside for organization, including a zippered laptop sleeve that can fit most 16-inch laptops. On the exterior of the bag, the neoprene luggage sleeve is perfect for attaching the duffel to a rolling suitcase, and a small pocket above the handle can securely hold your phone or ID.

Plus, this duffel is a great choice when it comes to sustainable travel . The lining is made from recycled plastic water bottles, and the bag is 100% vegan. This weekender also comes in air mesh material.

I love the zippered shoe bag – which is big enough to fit a pair of small boots or a couple pairs of sandals – as well as buttons on the sides that allow the bag to be clipped down for more streamlined travel. Additionally, this weekender duffel is surprisingly lightweight for how durable it is. – Leilani Osmundson, Senior Digital Producer

Best with Laptop Compartment: July Carry All Weekender Plus

Price: $295 or less

Featuring a clamshell design, this waterproof nylon bag opens flat for easy packing. There are two separate zippered interior compartments as well as an internal padded 16-inch laptop compartment. The thoughtfully designed weekender makes it easy to separate your travel essentials while maximizing packing space. On the exterior, there's a large front zippered pocket for reading materials, and the back features a hidden pocket behind the trolley sleeve for small items like your boarding pass or passport. For added versatility, the bag has two leather carrying handles and a removable shoulder strap.

This bag was a wow from the moment I opened it. The clamshell design makes packing a breeze. You can separate your clothes from other essentials and stow your laptop in its designated sleeve that is protected in the center of your bag. Since everything is divided, you can easily reach in to get your laptop out without spilling anything from your bag. – Rachael Hood

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Price: $165 or less

From the laptop pocket to the trolley sleeve, this mini bag packs a punch. There's an exterior front pocket for reading material or your boarding pass, an interior compartment with room for two to three outfits, and a small exterior zippered compartment that works well for a phone charger or earbuds. This rolling bag fits perfectly under the seat on most planes (even the small regional jets) and can be trolleyed with a larger carry-on or checked bag for added convenience.

For a weekend getaway or quick business trip, this is my go-to bag. I can maximize the packing space with compression packing cubes , put my laptop in the interior sleeve and fit all the essentials in this compact rolling style. It works well as an underseater or it easily fits in the overhead bin. I'm on and off flights with ease! – Rachael Hood

Catriona Kendall | U.S. News

Price: $285 or less

This 2.0 version of the crowdfunded Pakt One is beloved for good reason, with a variety of useful organizational features. This carry-on duffel opens clamshell-style for easy packing, and a 16-inch padded laptop pocket separates the two main compartments. The 28L size of this bag may be able to fit under the seat on certain airlines if it's not fully packed, but at full capacity it is better suited to the overhead bin. If you want a bit more space, consider the 35L, which also fits carry-on size guidelines .

On one side of the exterior, a zippered pocket doubles as a luggage sleeve for attaching it to a suitcase; on the other side you'll find two zippered pockets, one of which has multiple smaller pockets and a key clip inside. Built-in accessory straps on top of the duffel allow you to secure bulkier items such as a jacket or tripod. There's also a hideaway side pocket for your water bottle that can be stashed when not in use. The duffel is made of recycled nylon with a water-resistant coating, and the company is committed to eco-conscious production, which includes plastic-free packaging.

I am super impressed by the thoughtful design of this weekender duffel. The organization is top-notch, and it folds up when not in use so it doesn't take up too much room. I've been able to fit around three to four days' worth of clothing, plus my toiletries, my laptop and a pair of shoes. The adjustable padded shoulder strap is pretty comfortable too. – Catriona Kendall, Editor

Price: $575 or less

This sophisticated style works well for business trips, weekend getaways and everything in between. This TUMI weekender is separated into two compartments. The upper compartment has a laptop sleeve (for an up to 13-inch PC or 14-inch MacBook), a removable interior water bottle holder, a large zippered pocket, a slip pocket and a key leash. The lower section is ideal for shoes or business documents; it can be reached through a zipper at the base of the upper compartment or accessed on the outside through a zipper. The exterior nylon shell has a front zippered pocket, a phone slip pocket and a trolley sleeve.

From the sleek exterior with contrasting metal hardware details, genuine leather accents, monogrammable leather charm and all the interior features, this bag perfectly blends function and elegance. It's rather lightweight, yet still holds a shape, and it can even be used as a work bag if needed. – Rachael Hood

Erin Evans | U.S. News

Price: From $59.98

For less than $60, the Steve Madden Quilted Weekender Bag is a steal. The lightweight bag has a quilted exterior and a spacious interior, which makes this weekender option an ideal carryall for travel, work or the gym. It includes a medium interior zippered pocket and two small open pockets, plus 9-inch handles and a removable 25-inch crossbody strap. It's easy to wipe down when dirty, or you can even throw it in the washer. What's more, this bag can easily be used as a personal item, neatly fitting under the seat on most planes.

I've had this bag for six years and it's still in great shape. It fits a surprising amount of clothing and accessories, and its straps are plenty long enough so even when it's filled to the brim, it's comfortable to carry around. – Erin Evans, Managing Editor

Price: $325 or less

This understated quilted duffel has a lightweight construction, a hidden back slip pocket, a trolley sleeve, a phone slip pocket and two large zippered front pockets on the outside. There's also a pocket on each end for water or other items. The interior of the MZ Wallace Nik Duffel has a padded 16-inch laptop sleeve, four slip pockets, a zippered pocket and a removable zippered pouch. The sleek quilted bag has Italian leather accents and provides a chic look for work or leisure trips. It also folds relatively flat for easy storage when you're not out exploring.

I've seen a lot of travelers with these bags over the years, and I can see why. I love the feel of this bag; it feels luxurious, yet it's not flashy or over the top – truly quiet luxury at its finest. I especially love the two large front zippered pockets, as you can put your 3-1-1 bag and other items you need to reach while traveling so you don't have to rifle through your whole bag in the security line. – Rachael Hood

Best Large: Lo & Sons The Catalina Supreme

Price: $350 or less

Flexible with a very large top opening design, this weekender bag works well for packing clothing and gear that may not fit well within a structured bag. The expandable bottom compartment has a removable divider for shoes or other items, and it can be accessed inside the bag or from the outside. There's a trolley sleeve, a removable shoulder strap and top carry handles depending on your needs. This large bag is great for weekend ski trips or bringing along your pillow . It can be a carry-on bag on most airlines, but it will need to go in the overhead compartment because of its size.

This bag works well for car trips, and it has space to pack for two people going on a weekend getaway. I really like the pliability of this bag, and I think it is a good choice for when I need to pack a pillow, a winter coat, cowboy boots, wrapped gifts or other larger items that don't necessarily fit in a small duffel. – Rachael Hood

Price: $155 or less

Constructed with 100% recycled nylon, this bag is ideal for travelers who are short on storage space. It folds flat into its storage pouch – which can be used for organization within the bag when traveling. The interior has a spacious zippered pocket for small items. The size of this bag is ideal for an overnight trip with room for toiletries, essentials and a full change of clothes. For a longer weekend trip, there's also the Niru 48H Weekender .

The size and quality of this bag are superior to other folding totes I've tried. It's very sturdy, the handles are comfortable to carry, the front slip pocket is convenient, and the leather details are a nice touch. – Rachael Hood

Also Recommended

LeSportsac Deluxe Large Weekender: Many travelers (our team included) love this bag. It's durable, offers several exterior and interior pockets, and folds down compactly when not in use.

Nomad Lane Bento Bag: This bag has exceptional organizational features (including a toiletry pouch and an electronics organizer), but it may be a little small for a weekender. If you want a personal item that fits under the plane seat, the Bento Bag is an excellent option for short trips or light packers.

Carl Friedrik Compact Weekender: Sophisticated yet understated, this nylon weekender bag with Italian leather trim is a classic travel bag. It is spacious and looks appropriate regardless of the setting. However, it does lack a luggage trolley sleeve, which makes it a bit limited in terms of carrying options.

Samsonite Virtuosa Weekender: This sleek and simple bag from the well-respected luggage brand is a solid choice, if slightly small for a weekend's worth of belongings. The Virtuosa Weekender has some convenient storage pockets and a luggage sleeve, but the strap can be a little uncomfortable when the bag is heavy.

How We Tested

Our team packed and tested more than 25 weekender bags from a variety of brands at a range of price points. We tested to see if you can pack for a weekend getaway in each bag, along with the durability, details and overall functionality. After taking these weekender bags on an array of car, plane and train trips, we've selected these weekender bags the best for 2024.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Walking Shoes for Travel
• The Best Carry-on Luggage
• The Best Travel Purses
• The Top Cheap Weekend Getaways in the U.S.

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The Best Travel Tote Bags Stylishly Hold It All

Picks from Bottega Veneta, Rimowa, Cuyana, and more

Plane, train, or automobile—however you’re planning to head out of town for the weekend, you’ll need the best travel tote with you, to house the essentials. Having used a tote as a carry-on to load up my headphones and neck pillow, and another as my only bag for a long weekend away, I can vouch for the versatility tote bags can provide when you’re on the go. Look in my closet and you’ll find a handful of options, ranging from a luxury Celine carryall to a practical Cuyana bag.

Best Top-Zip Leather Travel Tote Bag

Cuyana classic easy zipper tote.

Best Black Travel Tote Bag

Caraa nimbus medium.

Best Natural-Fiber Travel Tote

Hunting season the tote in woven natural fiber.

With a range of sizes, strap lengths, and materials, the list ahead offers a comprehensive set of options for weekend trips, longer getaways (with a designer suitcase , of course), and anything in between. With summer getaways on the horizon, you’ll be ready to travel in style, without having to worry that your bag will slide under the seat in front of you.

The long, lean profile of this leather travel tote easily slips under a seat without a fight, and it has a top zipper to secure belongings. Plus, it comes in a range of colors and varying silhouettes to suit all preferences.

Dimensions: 12.3" x 21.6" x 5.1"

Colors: Terra-cotta, black, caramel, dark olive, and more

What reviewers are saying: “I’ve been using the original classic zipper tote for years for travel, and decided to give the new tote a try. I like the new straps, which are easier on the shoulder when I’ve got heavy items to carry, and I love the color (Biscuit). I like having the zipper for keeping my belongings in place when passing through airport security machines and for stowing under the seat in front of me on the airplane.”

I fell in love with Caraa’s durable-yet-sleek recycled nylon bags while trying out stylish diaper bags , and ever since, I’ve been a devotee. I love the rounded silhouette of this spacious but not overly large tote. It feels unique, is super luxe-looking, and offers tons of function, from its lightweight padded design to the 10-plus compartments and multiple straps.

Dimensions: 12.5" x 15.75" x 7"

Colors: Black

What reviewers are saying: “Excellent travel bag. I took it on a recent trip and it was perfect. Love the mesh pockets, the passport pocket and lab top pocket. Just a perfect travel companion!”

“Woven by hand and accented with one-of-a-kind tagua seeds, the tote is a master class in modern travel style,” says Corona. The fiber material is lightweight yet durable, great for days when you’re packing relatively light and need a bag that can make it through work and travel with you.

Dimensions: 19.6" x 11.8" x 7"

Colors: Stripe, brown, natural

Paravel Weekender

Timeless elegance meets modern durability and function in Paravel’s consciously crafted canvas carryall. (Note the protective feet.) It’s monogrammable too—so you’ll never mix it up with another traveler’s bag.

Dimensions: 15" x 15" x 8"

Colors: Tan, black, blue

What reviewers are saying: “This bag looks like the Hermès garden bag. I took it to Sardinia and Sicily and was stopped repeatedly to ask who makes it!”

Calpak Luka Duffel

This bag was my introduction to Calpak, and needless to say, I’m obsessed. It’s so lightweight and spacious, with a secure top zipper, side zip pocket, and sleeve to stay put on my roller bag. I tend to be a heavy packer, especially when attempting only to carry on. I can fit so much in this bag, which fits easily under an airplane seat, even when it’s filled to the brim.

Dimensions: 12" x 16" x 7"

Colors: Chocolate, black, rose, oatmeal, and more

What reviewers are saying: “This bag is more spacious than I imagined it would be. I was shocked how much I could pack in it. I love the shape, structure, color, fabric, luggage sleeve, pockets, and how lightweight it is. It’s truly an amazing piece! My 15 inch MacBook even fits in the outside pocket. It’s a tight fit, but it’s a fit. Worth every penny!”

Prada Re-Edition 1978 Large Re-Nylon and Saffiano Tote

There’s no designer tote bag more durable or beloved than Prada’s Re-Nylon. The black is fail-safe and great for travel, no question. But I can’t help but love the beige as a fresh alternative.

Dimensions: 11.4" x 13.8" x 5.9"

Colors: Black, navy, cork beige

Naghedi St. Barths Large Tote Bag

Flexible and elegant, Naghedi’s woven neoprene tote is a stunning-yet-durable bag for travel and comes with a coordinating pouch for small essentials. Spacious enough for plenty of snacks, a backup layer, and a travel pillow, it’s a year-round winner and can double as a water-resistant beach bag—a true do-it-all wonder.

Dimensions: 22" x 12.5" x 8"

Colors: Olive, black, white, tan, pink, and more

What reviewers are saying: “I purchased this bag one week ago in the Olive large size, and have not put it down since. It is beautiful and gets many compliments. Perfect bag at a great price.”

Dior Large Toujours Bag

Dior’s Toujours bag was a practical standout on the Spring/Summer 2023 runway, making it the ultimate travel companion. The thoughtful details start with the spacious interior compartment and a matching pouch to organize essentials, and end with a leather strap closure to keep items secure, plus adjustable handles for versatile carrying by hand or over the shoulder.

Dimensions: 14.5" x 10.5" x 7.5"

Métier Incognito Cabas Large Suede Tote

Métier is the ultimate for premium suede and leather travel bags. Thoughtfully designed, each bag (like this rich tan version) features multiple interior compartments with a minimal, elevated aesthetic.

Dimensions: 9.4" x 13" x 15.7"

Colors: Brown

Dagne Dover Kal Drawstring Tote

Talk about utility. This drawstring tote bag is not only on-trend with the padded design, but also seriously pocketed, with a perfect spot for every one of your travel essentials. Computer? Check. Wallet and ID? Yep. A water bottle? Oh, yes. (Obviously, staying hydrated in flight is crucial.)

Dimensions: 15" x 4.5" x 16"

Colors: Cream, black, olive, violet, and more

Louis Vuitton Neverfull MM

Louis Vuitton’s Neverfull monogram tote bag is iconic in every sense of the word. I love this new khaki-green iteration—it comes with a removable pouch—as a standout update to the spacious, side-laced silhouette.

Dimensions: 12.2" x 11" x 5.5"

Colors: Khaki, cream, black

Lululemon City Adventurer Tote Bag 27L

Raise your hand if your packing was flawless en route to your destination, but can somehow barely be contained on the way home. Enter the expandable travel tote bag by Lululemon, featuring an extremely useful zippered gusset to adjust the capacity of your carry-on. Genius.

Dimensions: 20.5" x 7.1" x 12.6"

Colors: Trench, black

What reviewers are saying: “I loved this bag so much that I bought one for my cousin, too! I use it as a travel bag, as a diaper bag, and as a tote bag when I am walking around in Rome. It expands the perfect amount to fit more stuff in when I travel home from a destination and it has lots of great pockets for all my AirPods, lip glosses, and ID!”

Bottega Veneta Large Flip Flap

Is this the most functional travel tote out there? Perhaps not. But it’s one of the most gorgeous. Crafted from soft nubuck leather, it’s incredibly spacious inside and completed with a brand-signature Intrecciato leather zippered pocket—perfect for your ID, wallet, and phone. (P.S. There should be even bigger Bottega travel bags available this spring.)

Dimensions: 12" x 14.9" x 11"

Colors: Green, brown

July Carryall Tote

I love the ease of a tote that sits comfortably on my shoulder and stays put while I’m dashing through airports. And this one checks so many other boxes, too: from the zippered top to the padded laptop sleeve compartment and hidden passport pocket with a magnetic closure.

Dimensions: 16.5" x 13" x 6.3"

Colors: Black, navy

What reviewers are saying: “This versatile tote has been an absolute game-changer for my daily activities. The design is not only fashionable but also incredibly functional, providing ample space to carry all my essentials effortlessly.”

Rimowa Vertical Tote

Business trippers and light travelers, this upright tote is for you. It features an easy-access external pocket for laptops or other electronics (so key for getting through security), as well as a roomy interior and travel strap for securing it to a roller.

Dimensions: 5.75" x 14.96" x 1.97"

Colors: Black, petal pink

Celine Cabas Drawstring Cuir Triomphe

If you favor elegant leather totes, look no further than this drawstring style by Celine for travel. It’s the type of tote that transitions seamlessly from the workweek (with polished dresses and tailoring) to weekend getaways (with a matching sweatsuit and sneakers).

Dimensions: 17" x 11" x 7"

Colors: Tan

Antler Chelsea Weekender in Woodland Green

This minimal weekender tote bag is spot-on for unfussy travelers. It’s made of water-resistant nylon, with well-considered details like a separate shoe storage compartment, detachable shoulder strap, and a padded pocket to keep a laptop accessible yet well protected.

Dimensions: 20.87" x 12.6" x 9.06"

Colors: Green, navy

What reviewers are saying: “A useful shapes and size bag with handy pockets and slot to fix soundly onto my luggage. I have just used it for the first time and was very pleased.”

Everlane The Luxe Italian Leather Tote

Sometimes, all you need or want is a beautifully crafted leather tote bag without too many bells and whistles. Everlane has you covered with this roomy and sleek leather tote, featuring two over-the-shoulder straps, an interior slip pocket (to cradle your phone, ID, and lip balm), and a leather-covered metal snap button closure.

Dimensions: 20.8" x 15.3" x 7"

Colors: Beech, cognac, black

What reviewers are saying: “Love the size! Fits everything I need be it work or for traveling. The leather quality & workmanship is top notch! Exactly what I was looking for!”

MZ Wallace Large Metro Tote

MZ Wallace is a go-to for well-made tote bags like this quilted nylon style. Perfect for travel, it’s fitted with several interior and exterior pockets, reinforced padded handles, an adjustable crossbody strap, protective feet, a luggage sleeve, and three detachable pouches.

Dimensions: 14.5" × 11" × 14.5"

Colors: Metallic, black

What reviewers are saying: “I own a couple of these bags in different colors and I find them to be the perfect gift for friends and family who are traveling. They are always blown away by the quality, looks, and functionality! The three extra travel bags are a fun surprise too!”

Chanel Large Deauville Tote

If luxury is your game, is there any other option but a Chanel shopper tote bag? Complete with a spacious interior, coordinating pouch, and interior zip pocket, this beautiful blue bag will stand out in any setting, from exotic beaches to snow-capped mountains. Choose your adventure.

Dimensions: 11.7" × 19.5" × 8.6"

Colors: Beige

Aemilia Madden is a freelance writer, editor, and consultant with over 10 years of experience in the fashion industry. She’s written for publications including Vogue , Harper’s Bazaar , W , and Fashionista . Previously, she was the senior fashion editor at The Zoe Report . In her time away from the internet, Aemilia is probably out on a hike.

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Travel Checklist

Before packing.

• Start with an EMPTY bag (make sure all pockets and compartments don’t have any items in them)
• 3.4 ounces or less per container
• 1 quart size, clear, plastic, zip top bag (all liquids must fit in bag)
• 1 bag per passenger
•   Review the prohibited items list for both carry-on and checked baggage.
• If purchasing a baggage lock, be sure to look for those that are TSA recognized.
• Tape a card with your name and contact information on your electronics.

When Packing

• Pack items in layers (shoes one layer, clothes one layer, electronics one layer, etc.)
• Firearms are only allowed in checked baggage and must be unloaded, placed in a locked, hard-sided container and declared to your airline.
• All fireworks contain explosive materials and are not permitted in checked or carry-on baggage.
• Do not pack items such as box cutters, utility knives, and razors in carry-on luggage. Razor blades intended for shaving that are enclosed in a safety cartridge in which the blade cannot be removed are permitted.
• Pack large electronics on top layer of carry-on for screening accessibility.
• Place your 3-1-1 bag with liquids, gels and aerosols in the front pocket of your carry-on for accessibility.
• If traveling with a pet, be sure to bring a leash so carriers can be properly screened.

Before Leaving for the Airport

• Give yourself enough time to arrive at the airport early.
• Wear easily removable shoes.
• Passengers with a disability or medical condition may call ahead to the TSA Cares toll free helpline at (855) 787-2227 .

Before Entering the Checkpoint

• Eligible passengers look for the TSA PreCheck® lane for expedited screening at participating airports.
• Have your  ID and boarding pass out for inspection.

In Standard Screening Lane

• Remove the 3-1-1 liquids bag and place it in the bin.
• Ensure pockets are empty (keys, tissues, currency, wallets, cell phones, etc.) and remove bulky jewelry (valuable items can be placed in carry-on).
• Remove your shoes and place them directly on the X-ray belt.
• Remove personal electronic devices larger than a cell phone from your carry-on bag and place them into a bin with nothing placed on or under them for X-ray screening. (E.g. laptops, tablets, e-readers and handheld game consoles.)
• Remember to check the bins and collect all belongings after going through screening.

Download PDF version

The Best Toiletry Bags for Summer Travel: Cosmetic Cases, Dopp Kits and More

Make packing for your next trip that much easier with these impressive toiletry bags for men and women.

As the warmth of summer arrives, this time of year is perfect for exploring new destinations and embarking on unforgettable vacations. Whether you're heading near or far, kick-starting your packing preparations well in advance can be essential to guarantee a stress-free experience.

There are all kinds of travel packing tips that can ease the difficulty of preparing for your voyage, but one travel gear essential that is often overlooked is the toiletry bag. The right toiletry bag means no more worrying about spilled shampoo or skincare products all over your clothes while also keeping everything perfectly organized.

There are so many  bags , pouches and containers that will help you transport your belongings securely. From hanging toiletry bags that save counter space to a portable Dopp kit for men, there’s a bag for all your travel needs. Since you're already busy planning your spring vacation, we've rounded up the best toiletry bags for men and women from around the web.

Below, check out the best toiletry bags that offer space, durability, and organization for every kind of adventure.

Best Toiletry Bags for Women

Dagne dover mila toiletry organizer.

Ensure your precious skincare products stay put during travel with this handy organizer.

Bagsmart Toiletry Travel Bag

This handy toiletry travel bag with multiple compartments keeps all your makeup, toiletries and accessories in one convenient place. Plus, it's water-resistant and comes with a hanging hook.

Beis The Cosmetics Case

For those who tend to overpack, you can keep your entire beauty ritual super organized. Inside, there are three slip pockets for storing products and a separate removable sleeve specifically for makeup brushes.

Calpak Terra Hanging Toiletry Bag

This travel bag can hold all of your essentials in one place, helping you save space in your luggage. Plus, it's water-resistant and can hang on the wall using the hanging hook for easy access to your toiletries. 

Away The Large Toiletry Bag

Made with water-resistant nylon, this toiletry bag has an exterior zip pocket for grab-and-go items, plus a coated spill-proof interior to keep your cosmetics in check.

Morfone 16-Pack Travel Bottle Set

This clear toiletry bag comes filled with colorful travel bottles that all fit neatly inside. It is a great solution for storing your cosmetics inside your luggage without worrying about spills or leaks.

Narwey Hanging Travel Toiletry Bag

A hanging toiletry bag will make life easier for anyone who's always on the go. The multiple storage compartments allow for the ultimate organization of toiletries, makeup, brushes, and more.

Best Toiletry Bags for Men

Bagsmart toiletry bag.

Featuring a dry wet separation waterproof PVC zipper pocket in the back and a full-open zipper pocket in the front, you can sort your tooth brushes, razors, electric trimmer or other toiletries perfectly. 

WandF Toiletry Bag

For a budget-friendly option, the WandF toiletry bag can fit travel-size and large products, and the mesh pockets offered space and easy visibility for smaller toiletries.

L.L.Bean Personal Organizer Toiletry Bag

An L.L. Bean favorite, this medium-sized travel bag in over 10 colors and patterns. Everything on this bag is durable, even the high-quality ykk zippers, which can handle 20,000 zips and unzips.

Vorspack Hanging Dopp Kit Toiletry Bag

Don't be fooled by the size. This bag fits more essentials than expected, thanks to the polyester fabric. It's perfect for stowing away your phone, passport, cards and small accessories while traveling. 

Samsonite NuRoad Lay Flat Toiletry Kit

Keep all your toiletries together and accessible in this flat-laying toiletry kit. It has water-resistant coating for easy clean up in case any of your products spring a leak. 

Vetelli Leather Toiletry Bag for Men

Unwrap this Vetelli leather toiletry bag to uncover three rows of organizational compartments. You can lay it flat or hang it up with the attached hook.

Aaron Leather Goods Vegan Leather Toiletry Travel Bag

Travel in style with this sleek vegan leather toiletry bag.

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Travelfornoobs

The Complete Packing List for Moscow

Moscow packing list – what you need to bring, how to pack for moscow.

You’ve booked your plane ticket and the time of departure is fast approaching? After the joys of such a decision, comes the question of knowing what to put in your suitcase to go to Moscow. No need to panic, we have prepared a very complete list of the essential things to bring to make sure you don’t miss anything once you are there.

In order to leave no room for unforeseen events, it’s of course preferable to go through this list a few days before leaving rather than the day before departure, as you might miss some items.

Take the time to read and download it in order to identify the things that you absolutely must pack and that you might miss and that could make you lose time and money if you forget them.

You will also need to think about packing according to the type of accommodation you will be staying in, the different modes of transportation you will use during your trip, the climate and the season, as well as the activities you plan to do.

In order to help you prepare your suitcase, this checklist of the essential things to bring in Moscow gathers several categories: clothes, accessories, various objects… It will allow you to have a concrete vision of a typical suitcase for Moscow.

An advice, think of keeping some space in your luggage if you wish to bring back souvenirs or to make some clothing shopping on the spot.

Thanks to this travel list, preparing your bag for Moscow will be a real child’s play and you will just have to enjoy your adventure!

Note : This article contains affiliate links to Amazon.

• Important hings to do before you go
• Essential documents
• Transport essentials
• Backpack & luggage
• Clothing and shoes
• Hygiene & Toiletries
• Photo, Video & High Tech
• Useful accessories
• Medication and first aid kit
• Activities and Useful Links (+ Printable checklist PDF)

1/ Important things to do before you go

 Prepare your travel itinerary  Apply for a visa (if necessary)  Make your vaccinations (if necessary)  Check-up at the doctor / dentist  Take out a travel insurance  Photocopy or scan important documents (passport)  Write down e-mail and useful phone numbers in your address book  Warn your bank about your trip abroad (if necessary)  Book accomodation for your first night ( Do it now before everything is fully booked! Check the best hotels on Booking )  Download offline applications and maps for Maps.me  Download movies offline   Prepare your favorite music playlist  Turn off or turn down the heat of your house  Empty garbage cans  Water the plants   Give a copy of your house/car keys to a family member or friend  Close doors and windows

2/ Essential documents

Even before you buy your plane ticket, remember to check the validity of your passport : it must be valid for at least six months after your return date (for some countries) and have a blank page. Another tip: send your important documents to a secondary email in case you lose them.

   Passport   ID card    Plane or train ticket (have a paper copy just in case)   Reservation documents (e-ticket, train ticket, hotel reservation)   Visa (if necessary)   International driver’s license, if you wish to rent a car   Health insurance card   Travel insurance   Credit card   Cash   Useful numbers in case of emergency   Itinerary and address of your accommodation (hotel / AirBnB / camping)   Vaccination certificate   Diving license, sailing license, etc.   Some business cards with your contact information, email, blog, website

3/ Transport essentials

The little things to have with you at all times during the flight or the trip by train or bus:

 Phone and charger  Book / Magazine / Kindle / Travel Guide  MP3 player   Chewing gum   Pen + notepad  Travel pillow ( my favorite )  Sleep mask ( my favorite )   Earplugs   Snacks / sandwich   Small water bottle  Nasal ointment for dry nose  Sunglasses   Glasses case   Watch   Hand sanitizer   Disposable face mask   Tissues   Motion sickness medication

4/ Backpack & luggage

 Waterproof dry bag ( my favorite )  Handbag   Travel laundry bag ( my favorite )  Carry-on suitcase ( my favorite )  Travel bag ( my favorite )   Luggage tag ( my favorite )   Travel Packing Organizers ( my favorite )   Rain cover for backpack ( my favorite )   Zippered carry-on bag   Shoe bag ( my favorite )   Fanny pack   Lightweight foldable backpack ( my favorite )

5/ Clothing and shoes

  Socks  Underwear (panties, thongs, bras, briefs, boxers…)  Tank tops  Skirt ♀  Dress ♀  Pajamas  T-shirts  Long sleeve shirt ( for her , for him )  Short sleeve shirt ( for her , for him )  Polo shirt ( for her , for him )   Sweatshirt / pullover ( for her , for him )   Jeans   Lightweight pants ( for her , for him )   Money belt ( my favorite )   Shorts   Jogging suit   Jacket / coat   K-way ( for her , for him )   Windbreaker ( for her , for him )  Hat / cap / beanie   Scarf / bandana   Swimsuit   Buff scarf ( my favorite )

For shoes, you will have to choose according to the activities you plan to do:

 Comfortable walking shoes   Shoes for going out (restaurants, bars, clubs…)  Flip-flops (for the beach, showers…) ( for her , for him )  Hiking shoes ( for her , for him )  Sandals ( for her , for him )   Water shoes for walking in water (beaches, waterfalls, rivers…) ( for her , for him )  Light trekking shoes ( for her , for him )  Crocs

6/ Hygiene & Toiletries

 Microfiber towel ( my favorite )   Toilet bag   Portable Travel Bottles ( my favorite )  Toothbrush & toothpaste  Dental floss  Soap   Shampoo   Facial cleanser   Nail clippers   Cotton buds (biodegradable)   Tweezers   Make-up   Deodorant   Comb / Hairbrush   Razor & shaving foam ♂   Biodegradable wipes ( my favorite )   Toilet paper roll   Perfume   Makeup ♀   Contact Lenses   Contact lens product   Pocket mirror

7/ Photo, Video & High Tech

For photographers and videographers:

 Camera  Lens  Memory card  Polarizing filters   ND filter   Extra battery   Charger + cable + plug adapter   Cleaning kit   External hard drive   USB key   Stabilizer   Drone ( my favorite )    Waterproof phone case   Flash   Solar charger ( my favorite )    Gopro ( my favorite )   Waterproof case   Selfie Pole  External battery / Powerbank ( my favorite ) 

Don’t forget:

 Portable speaker  Ipad / Tablet  Laptop PC  External battery  Headphones or noise cancelling headphones ( my favorite )

Useful apps to download before you go to Moscow:

 AirBnB  Booking  Couchsurfing  Flush – Public Toilet Finder (Useful for finding toilets!)  Google Maps  Google Translator  Google Trips  Lonely Planet Guide  LoungeBuddy  Maps.me  Meetup  Tripadvisor  Uber  Whatsapp  XE Currency

8/ Useful accessories

The accessories you will take in your bag for Moscow will depend on your travel style:

  TSA lock ( my favorite )  Headlamp ( my favorite )  Sleeping bag ( my favorite )  Sheets ( my favorite )  Swiss Army knife (not in the hand luggage!) ( my favorite )  Travel clothesline ( my favorite )  Powdered or liquid detergent  Clothes pegs  Spork ( my favorite )  Ziploc bags  Lighter  Folding umbrella ( my favorite )  Toilet paper  Mosquito repellent ( my favorite )   Mosquito net ( my favorite )   Sunscreen cream  Aloe vera gel   Waterproof pouch for smartphone    For hikers : GPS, map, compass, water bottle   Walking stick ( my favorite )   Anti-sweat talcum powder ( my favorite )   Beach towel ( my favorite )   Sawyer water filter ( must-have !)  Pills to purify non-drinking water   Mask, snorkel, fins   Diving accessories (gloves, dive computer, lamp, knife…)

9/ Medication and first aid kit

I suggest that you consult your doctor and dentist before leaving. Beware of unauthorized medication and remember to keep your vaccinations up to date!

If you have a treatment don’t forget to take your personal medication and your prescription if necessary (or medical certificate).

You can buy a first aid kit already prepared ( my favorite ).

  Cotton buds   Tweezers   Round-tipped scissors   Pairs of single-use latex gloves  Bandages   Paracetamol or ibuprofen for pain   Sterile compresses   Disinfectant spray for wounds   Physiological saline solution in pods (wound cleaning)   Condoms and other contraceptives

For longer trips and higher risk locations, we can also add:

  Sterile adhesive skin sutures (steristrips)   Rehydration solutions (in case of dehydration)   Water purification tablets   Water decontamination tablets (Aquatabs or Micropur)   Medication for altitude   Medication for sore throat    Anti-malarial medication   Survival blanket   Tick tweezers   Ointment against itching (antihistamine)   Probiotics for the stomach   Corticosteroid pills and cream   Analgesics (painkillers)   Survival blanket   Cold medicine (decongestant)   Biafine (in case of burns or sunburns)   Broad-spectrum antibiotics without a prescription   Anti-diarrhea tablets (immodium, smecta)

10/ Activities and Useful Links + Printable checklist

You can download the complete travel list in PDF format and print it by clicking here.

Book your hotel in Moscow now on Booking.com

AirBnb : Get a discount for your first booking!

Book now your activities in Moscow on Getyourguide:

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