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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 designated shoe pocket on the side of the bag. 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, 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 camping trip 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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Related Articles

19 Best Weekender Bags for Your Next Getaway, According to Our Editors

By Madison Flager and Meaghan Kenny

Whether you're planning a quick road trip to the nearest beach or a much-needed couple's getaway , spending a few days away calls for a sturdy, stylish, and functional travel bag. We often turn to our favorite weekenders to hold everything we need for short trips and overnight stays. The best weekender bags are roomy enough to carry your clothes, toiletries, and a pair of shoes or two , but not so bulky as to slow you down while dashing to catch a train, or take up an exorbitant amount of space in your trunk. A separate compartment for dirty clothes or shoes is always welcome, too. To narrow down the styles that are worth your dollars (and storage space), our editors put dozens of duffels and expandable totes to the test from top travel brands like Away, Béis, Calpak, Monos, and more.

How we tested:

Condé Nast Traveler editors spent months testing out these weekenders, bringing them on two-day getaways, overnights, and camping trips, and using them as our personal items on flights. We considered each bag's weight, capacity, design, and how well it held up after several trips. We also paid close attention to unique features that make a bag stand out against other options on the market, like having ample pockets or a separate shoe compartment. Below, the 19 best weekenders of 2023, from budget-friendly options to splurge-worthy designer bags.

This article is part of Condé Nast Traveler' s first-ever Luggage Week , for which dozens of suitcases, backpacks, and weekender bags were road-tested by our editors.

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

MZ Wallace Nik Duffel

Weight: 2.1 lbs. Dimensions: 17"L × 7"W × 12"H Features: Detachable crossbody strap, black leather protective feet, trolley sleeve, water-resistant exterior

MZ Wallace's Nik duffel bag is a new favorite of senior commerce editor Madison Flager —she's used it as an overnight bag when dog-sitting, as a personal item when flying to Florida for a cruise, and for a weekend trip to Boston. Thanks to its quilted fabric, it's incredibly lightweight at just over two pounds. On the bag's exterior, there are two deep zippered pockets for small items you'll want to grab easily during transit, like your wallet or passport. Inside, there's a laptop sleeve, a detachable lightweight pouch, and two more slip pockets that Flager uses to store things like sunglasses and glasses. “As a personal item, it’s super roomy—when I took it on a cruise, it was a good size to hold all the things I wanted to keep with me when boarding, including my toiletry bag , a pouch with medicine, another with makeup, and a bathing suit and pool coverup ,” she says. What we love most about this duffel: its many pockets, water-resistant material, and polished look.

Calpak Luka duffel

Weight: 1.95 lbs. Dimensions: 16" x 7" x 12" Capacity: 22L Features: Separate shoe compartment, trolley sleeve, water bottle pocket

Calpak's Luka duffel is one of its most popular pieces of luggage, previously racking up a 44,000-deep waiting list. Now restocked and available in most colors, it's got rave reviews from associate commerce editor Meaghan Kenny : “I've used my fair share of duffel bags, but this one is by far my favorite. Made of water-resistant material, the Luka duffel bag is so soft and lightweight. No matter how much I stuff in this thing, it's not a pain to carry—the ultra-soft, long carry handles don't hurt my shoulders, and the adjustable longer strap is comfortable, too. This duffel has nine pockets, with a shoe compartment at the bottom where I keep a pair of sneakers or slippers, a mesh pocket, a side pocket for my water bottle, and plenty of smaller side pockets inside where I store small items like socks and toiletries. It fits everything I need for an overnight stay or a quick weekend trip if I'm packing on the lighter side. There's also a trolley sleeve that fits nicely on my carry-on , which is a real lifesaver while walking through the airport.” If you love this bag's features but want something a little more spacious (think three- or four-day trips), the Luka duffel is available in a large version , too.

Read a full review of this bag here .

July Carry All Weekender Plus

Weight: 4.2 lbs. Dimensions: 22" x 9" x 12.5" Capacity: 50L Features: Clamshell opening, trolley sleeve, gunmetal feet on base

The best part of this weekender: the clamshell opening, which allows the bag to lie completely flat for easy packing. With a roomy 50-liter capacity and an internal padded pocket that fits a 16" laptop, you've got a good amount of space in here for an overnight stay or a two-night trip. Contributor Juliet Izon tested out this bag when we were on the hunt for the best weekenders in 2021, and was able to pack “everything I needed for a four-day trip to Asheville , North Carolina, including all the outfit changes I wanted for a weekend in the unpredictable weather of the mountains.” Its smart design, sleek look, and spacious compartments make it deserving of a spot on our list this year, too.

Monos Metro Duffel

Weight: 3 lbs. (nylon); 3.6 lbs. (vegan leather) Dimensions: 16" × 7" × 11" Capacity: 22L Features: Removable exterior pouch, laptop compartment, trolley sleeve

Monos’s Metro line features polished bags made of only vegan materials, including the equivalent of 16 repurposed plastic water bottles per bag. “This is not just a beautiful bag (get used to the compliments!), it’s also the most organized duffel I’ve ever owned, with a spot for everything,” says global digital director Arati Menon . “The interiors are incredibly roomy, and come with pockets that fit everything from your laptop to water bottle. And when you run out of space inside, just snap on one of Monos’ interchangeable kits to the front to put all your necessities (phone, wallet, passport) within easy reach. You could even snap off a kit to double up as a clutch in a pinch.”

Matt Ortile

Kaitlin Menza

Kelsey Glennon

Lauren Burvill

Béis The Weekender Bag

Weight: 3.86 lbs. Dimensions: 19.5" x 10" x 16" Capacity: 49L Features: Removable shoulder strap, trolley sleeve, separate shoe compartment, padded laptop sleeve

With a water-resistant and pocket-filled interior, plus an extra roomy bottom compartment that fits several pairs of shoes or those souvenirs you can’t bear to leave behind, this understatedly chic travel tote has enough nooks and crannies to keep even the worst overpacker in line. And the structured frame opening on top keeps the bag wide open—or securely shut—when you need it to be. In addition to gaining a ton of buzz on social media for its “cool girl” aesthetic, the Béis Weekender is also a favorite among Traveler editors, including Flager. It's her go-to tote for true weekend trips—“I use the outer pocket for my phone and ID, and I love the key leash—it’s nice to have a dedicated spot for my house keys so I’m not digging around upon return,” she says. The Béis Weekender is available in a mini size , too, which is better suited as a personal item or a one-night bag.

Patagonia Black Hole Duffel Bag 70L

Weight: 3.28 lbs. Dimensions: 28" × 13" × 17.5" Capacity: 70L Features: Ergonomic shoulder straps, weather-resistant material, padded base

Made from 100 percent recycled fabric, Patagonia's weather- and abrasion-resistant duffel is one of the most durable on our list. It's also is one of our largest options, holding 70 liters of gear. The padded and removable ergonomic shoulder straps let you carry this duffel like a backpack and detach them when not in use. Senior features editor Rebecca Misner easily packed enough clothes for a two-week road trip from San Fransisco and says it held up beautifully—even after constantly throwing it around the back of her car. And it wicks water, so the unexpected shower that came when she was unpacking the car in Portland, Oregon, was no big deal. Its U-shaped top zipper allows the bag to open wide for easy access to everything in the main compartment, which makes packing it and finding belongings a breeze. “It’s a fantastic piece of luggage for a road trip or any adventure travel, but I wouldn't take it on a plane unless I was going on a trip where very minimal lifting would be required. If you keep the weight down, most people should be able to carry it comfortably by its straps,” says Misner. She's looking forward to using it as a ski trip bag this winter: “I won’t worry about throwing it in the back of the car with my skis—scratching or tearing won’t be an issue. Plus, if it gets wet from my ski boots or if I’m loading it in snow, it will wick away any moisture.”

Paravel Weekender

Weight: 2.4 lbs. Dimensions: 15" x 8" x 15" Capacity: 55L Features: Trolley sleeve, removable and adjustable shoulder strap, hand-painted or embroidered initials available

Paravel's timeless Weekender, made from 12 upcycled plastic water bottles, is at the top of our list when it comes to investment bags. The thick cotton canvas exterior is beautifully stitched and elevated by leather accents, while the easy-to-clean nylon interior can withstand a shampoo or water bottle spill. It's a tried-and-true travel essential for Flager, who says it's one of her most aesthetically pleasing bags and most functional, too. It's roomier than it looks, fitting a weekend's worth of clothes, with space for a pair of shoes, Dopp kit , and laptop. Inside, there are two deep zippered pockets for sliding in a pair of flats or sandals, chargers, or any other odds and ends you want with you. “It’s a great bag to use as a personal item—I’ve used it for overnight trips, but more often I use it to carry things I want with me in-flight (Kindle, charger, snacks, etc), plus any overflow that didn’t make it into my carry-on, like a toiletry or makeup bag ,” says Flager. It comes with an adjustable, removable strap to wear as a crossbody or on your shoulder, and has sturdy leather top handles and a trolley sleeve to secure to a suitcase on longer trips.

Paravel Fold-Up Bag

Weight: 1 lb. Dimensions: 18" × 11" × 11.5" Features: Trolley sleeve, interior zip pocket, folds completely flat

Another Paravel favorite: This lightweight fold-up duffel, which packs down to next to nothing. Senior editor Megan Spurrell is a fan, and has used it for overnighters—she says it fits as much as her other duffels, and has held up over the years—and regularly brings it along as a just-in-case bag to carry home souvenirs on longer trips. “I've used it for a couple staycations where I just need to throw things in a bag for a night or two,” she says. “It's nice that it doesn't have a solid structure and is only as big as what you've put inside.” If you’re gifting this bag, include a personal touch with a monogram, which can be added on for $15.

Herschel Supply Co. Tech Novel duffel

Weight: 3 lbs. (nylon); 3.6 lbs. (vegan leather) Dimensions: 20.5" × 11" × 12.75" Capacity: 45L Features: 16" laptop compartment, removable padded shoulder strap, trolley sleeve, shoe compartment

Available in classic colors like black, navy, green, and light and dark gray, this sleek weekender from Herschel was recently redesigned to be made with 100 percent recycled materials. It features a long, padded adjustable strap, a shoe compartment, a trolley sleeve, and a slew of organizers to help keep devices from getting jumbled. This spacious duffel was tested by Kenny, who says this: “It's versatile enough to take you from the gym to a camping trip to a weekend stay down the shore. The bag’s design is simple yet elevated enough to work for any type of traveler at any age.” She noted the ultra-soft laptop compartment is separate from the bag's main section, so your laptop is well-protected during transit. Travelers can easily fit three days of clothing in this duffel, making it a great option for extended weekend trips away. And at $160, it's well priced and will be a great travel companion for years to come.

Lo & Sons The Catalina Deluxe

Weight: 2.6 lbs. (canvas), 2.26 lbs. (recycled poly) Dimensions: 18" x 8.5" x 6" Features: Separate shoe compartment, trolley sleeve, padded removable strap

This travel-friendly tote is a bestseller for accessories brand Lo & Sons, and it’s not hard to see why. The overnight bag features several interior and exterior pockets sized for everything from iPads to sanitizing wipes to sunglasses , a long removable strap with memory foam padding, and a trolley sleeve that converts into a zipper pocket. It was tested by Traveler 's global director of audience development Lara Kramer ; she brought it on an overnight staycation in Brooklyn and a four-night stay at the hospital for the birth of her baby. “You can easily fit a long weekend’s worth of clothes (and shoes!) in this bag. And, in our case, an abundance of pajamas, towels, and home comforts—think portable fan, slippers, a sound machine, and framed photos of family and our pet cat—for a long hospital stay,” she says. There's a handy bottom compartment that can hold two to three pairs of shoes (or your dirty clothes) that also features a removable padded tray that can be washed as needed. Kramer did note that because of its generous size and ample storage, this bag can hold a lot of weight. However, the padded messenger strap made of memory foam does take the comfort level up a notch.

Lululemon City Adventurer large duffel bag

Dimensions: 18" x 9" x 12" Capacity: 29L Features: Trolley sleeve, detachable strap, padded laptop pocket

If you're a fan of Lululemon's ultra-popular fanny pack , you'll likely fall in love with this weekender, too. Made of a similar smooth, water-repellant fabric, the sporty bag comes in silver or black. This is another favorite of Kenny's: “It’s the perfect size for a weekender bag—not too big or too small. It gives you just enough room for two to three outfits without becoming too heavy or bulky to carry around. Plus, it fits under the seat on an airplane, making it a great personal item.” This lightweight duffel opens wide to fit plenty of clothes, and has two mesh pockets and a zippered compartment for keeping important items extra secure. Carry it by the top handles or across your body, and use the trolley sleeve to secure it to luggage when needed. Another plus: It can be folded up nearly flat to store away when not in use.

Baboon to the Moon Go-Bag Small (40L)

Weight: 3.5 lbs. Dimensions: 20.5" x 12.5" x 10.5" Capacity: 40L Features: Backpack straps and removable shoulder strap, waterproof shell

We're big fans of Baboon's indestructible bags—they will stand up to any cargo bin, overhead compartment, or car trunk they're tossed in. Flager has taken this on several adventure-type trips and says, “it’s exactly what you want when you don’t want to be concerned about the elements damaging your bag.” And with a selection of bold, bright colors, they'll be easy to spot on a luggage carousel and put a smile on your face when packing. The detachable, adjustable shoulder straps are a nice touch, too. While it's a great option for two to four days away, we wouldn't recommend this as a true backpacking bag because of its fabric, which can feel a little stiff.

Everlane The ReNew Transit weekender

Dimensions: 19.5" x 7" x 14" Features: Made of 100 percent recycled polyester, laptop compartment, trolley sleeve

Crafted by the popular direct-to-consumer line that turns out wardrobe staples , this go-with-everything oversized tote is a minimalist’s dream. Everlane's ReNew Transit weekender has become a go-to for Spurrell, ever since she first brought it on a weeklong trip to Egypt . “This makes a fantastic, roomy personal item to top your carry-on for a trip when you probably should check a bag but refuse to. It’s also perfect for a casual one-nighter when you just want to throw pajamas, an outfit or two, and some other essentials inside,” she says. The bag features a wider bottom than top, which is great for filling it to the brim without dealing with items spilling out in the back seat. “It’s quite comfy on the shoulders, even in sleeveless clothes with which other straps might dig in, though the padded section of the strap doesn’t sit on your shoulders unless you extend the length quite a bit (I prefer to keep the straps short so the bag sits right under my arm),” says Spurrell. We also love that it's constructed out of recycled polyester (made from 36.6 renewed plastic bottles) that’s also water-resistant. Plus, it fits just as effortlessly in the overhead compartment as it does in the luggage Tetris of a trunk.

Dagne Dover Landon Carryall

Weight: 2 lbs. Dimensions: 16.5" x 9" x 11" Capacity: 29L Features: 16" laptop sleeve, Recycled Repreve lining, trolley sleeve, shoe bag

Don’t be fooled by the streamlined look of this neoprene number. The washable carryall houses a dust bag for shoes, detachable key leash, removable zip-top pouch for essentials, and plenty of air mesh interior pockets, including one for your water (or wine) bottle. The genius exterior phone slot is just the cherry on top. Former Traveler editor Alex Erdekian calls it a “beautiful, keep-forever bag." Dagne Dover's Landon carryall comes in a few different sizes, but the large and extra-large sizes are your best bet for weekend's away. “Because the bag itself is so lightweight, it’s really easy to throw over your head into a bin even if you’ve packed it with a carry-on level amount of stuff,” says Erdekian. She's been able to fit four to five days' worth of clothes inside. And as far as aesthetics, “I adore the look of this bag. It honestly improves any outfit I’m wearing and makes for a chic, classic summer vacation look—we all know that effortlessly glam duffel-bag-slung-over-your-shoulder pose as you’re walking up the driveway of your friend’s lake house.”

Arlo Skye The Weekender

Dimensions: 20.5" × 9" × 11" Capacity: 31L Features: Trolley sleeve, anti-microbial lining, separate shoe compartment

Arlo Skye's sleek weekender is lightweight and made of a scratch-resistant nylon with full-grain Italian leather trim, with an antimicrobial lining. It was tested by Flager, who says you can squeeze a lot in here—use it for long weekends, or as a carry-on to fill with odds and ends when heading out on longer trips. “It's a little too big for an under-the-seat item, but has tons of pockets and separate compartments to keep you organized,” Flager says. “If you pack lightly, it could be your main carry-on on short trips.” There's a separate shoe or dirty clothes compartment, a trolley sleeve if you're rolling it on top of a checked bag , and an exterior slip pocket that's the right size for your phone, passport, and keys.

Rothy’s The Weekender

Weight: 4.4 lbs. Dimensions: 21.5" × 9" × 14" Features: Zipper exterior laptop pocket, machine washable, adjustable and removable shoulder strap

Made from the brand’s signature 100 percent recycled materials (like marine bound plastic) and available in colorblock prints and understated patterns like midnight camo, this roomy tote has all the makings of a go-to weekender. The main compartment is flanked by easy-access compartments with a magnetic closure on one side and zippered one on the other—perfect for storing keys, travel documents, a Kindle, and anything else you might reach for during the journey. Destinations editor Shannon McMahon recommends it for an extended weekend trip: “I found it most useful for beach weekends away where I needed a lot of big accessories, like floppy hats, multiple jackets, and cozy sweatshirts. It’s less plane-friendly because of its sheer size, but I got away with it as a personal item on a recent trip.” At an eye-popping $549, it is one of the most expensive weekenders we tested. And while you can definitely opt for an equally functional bag with a less hefty price tag, you do get plenty of packing space with Rothy's weekender and are supporting a sustainability initiative. McMahon says it's indestructible and incredibly durable, too. And since travel can get messy, we love how, like everything else in Rothy’s collection, the bag is fully machine washable—just remove the base insert and throw it and the bag into the accompanying wash bag and right into your laundry.

Away The Large Everywhere Bag

Weight: 3.8 lbs. (with shoulder strap); 3.3 lbs. (without strap) Dimensions: 21" × 9" × 12" Capacity: 38L Features: Trolley sleeve, 15" laptop pocket, detachable padded shoulder strap

Away is a trusted brand among Traveler editors for quality and functionality. Made of a water-resistant nylon and leather trim, the Large Everywhere bag is the biggest of the brand's best-selling style, with enough room to fit three or four days worth of clothing. It features a clamshell opening, which makes it easy to pack and find everything you're looking for once you arrive. Store clothes in the roomy main compartment and put smaller items like chargers, beauty products, or toiletries in the zippered mesh pockets. It fits nicely on top of your Away carry-on, thanks to the convenient trolley sleeve. And if you're heading on a business trip, there's an exterior padded laptop pocket that fits computers up to 15 inches. Carry it by the top handle or the padded detachable strap.

Louis Vuitton Keepall 55

Weight: 5 lbs. Dimensions: 22" x 9" x 12" Features: Padlock luggage tag, double zip closure, detachable shoulder strap

If you're looking to elevate your luggage collection, the Louis Vuitton Keepall 55 is about as classic as it gets. This roomy duffel, tested by Kenny, features the iconic logo emblazoned on the outside of the bag, offering a chic and timeless style. Inside, there's one main spacious compartment that fits two days' worth of clothes and a toiletry bag, and a side zippered pocket for smaller essentials like a phone charger or a pair of sunglasses. Travelers can carry it by its top handle or with the detachable shoulder strap. And the best part: Its leather exterior gets better with age.

REI Co-op Big Haul 60 Recycled Duffel

Weight: 2.9 lbs.  Dimensions: 26" × 11" × 14" Capacity: 60L Features: Stowable backpack straps, daisy-chain lash points, recycled nylon materials, storage sack

This 60-liter duffel is the ideal bag for a multi-day trip—its durable, holds plenty of gear, and can be carried as a backpack, too. Made of recycled ripstop nylon, the Big Haul duffel is designed to survive wear and tear, making it a great companion for hiking, camping, or other outdoor adventures. It's a go-to for articles director Lale Arikoglu when it comes to adventure travel—she's had it for years and it's still holding up well. There's plenty of room inside its main compartment, as well as internal mesh pockets to keep small essentials organized. It features a compression strap system to keep your gear compact and secure, and a storage sack.

11 Best Weekender Bags, Tested by Travel Experts

Don't bother with a carry-on when these weekenders can fit everything you need.

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

To find the best ones, our Good Housekeeping Institute product analysts tested 22 weekender bags in our Lab and with consumer testers . We evaluated each bag based on ease of packing, comfort when carrying, durability, organizational design and more to find the best weekender bags.

Our top picks:

Best Overall Weekender Bag

Calpak luka duffel.

Best Value Weekender Bag

Bagsmart carry on weekender.

Best Oversized Weekender Bag

Lo & sons catalina deluxe.

Most Stylish Weekender Bag

Beis the mini weekender.

Best Duffel Weekender Bag

Herschel novel duffle.

Most Versatile Weekender Bag

Dagne dover landon neoprene carryall bag.

Most Sturdy Weekender Bag

Away the large everywhere bag.

Best Weekender Bag for Road Trips

Vera bradley performance twill grand weekender travel bag.

Most Durable Weekender Bag

Patagonia black hole duffel bag 40l.

Best Weekender Backpack

Cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack.

Weekender bags are just about any type of bag that's smartly designed for a weekend trip away. As the category continues to expand, we're seeing more and more variations (like weekender backpacks and weekenders with wheels!). When trying a weekender bag for the first time, our testers were impressed with just how useful these bags are, and many opted to use them on more than just weekend trips; they're great to use as a gym bag, overnight bag, tote bag, personal item and more.

After you shop through our top-tested picks, keep reading to learn more about what to look in a great weekender, information about how we test and answers to your pressing questions about travel bags.

Perfectly suited to a weekend trip, this puffy weekender bag from Calpak checked every box in our tests. The sleek material was easy to wipe clean and stayed in great shape use after use. It has a thoughtful design with a large exterior pocket, a separate shoe compartment and internal organizational features. The shoulder strap was comfortable to carry and there is a removable crossbody strap as well. It's currently available in five stylish shades, like chocolate brown, light pink and bright green.

In our packing test, this bag fit everything on our list with room to spare, and it was a tester favorite for being just the right size. One tester brought this bag as her personal item for a two-week trip and found it the perfect size to hold everything she needed while traveling. She said, "This bag fits everything I need and more! The puffy design is chic with a durable exterior. I appreciated the well-organized interior with multiple zipper compartments, a luggage sleeve, a separate shoe compartment and even a side water bottle holder.

It also poured while I was traveling and everything inside this bag stayed perfectly dry." She did, however, notice a bit of the stitching unraveling around the trolley sleeve. It's best suited for casual weekend travel instead of outdoor adventure wear.

Most weekender bags retail for over $100, but this affordable option from BAGSMART starts at around $35. It's made from very lightweight nylon fabric and weighs under 2 pounds, so it won't weigh you down too much if you're walking through a new city or running through the airport.

Available in nine colors and earning over 2,000 rave Amazon reviews, this popular bag has two size options, medium and large. The medium size is within most airline size limits for a personal item while the large is better suited for longer trips.

Testers were impressed with just how much they could fit in this bag. One tester said, "It's especially great for overpackers" thanks to the "super roomy interior and convenient exterior pockets." The material is on the thinner side and some testers noticed a bit of wear and tear after a long trip.

Lo & Sons Catalina Deluxe

Overpackers, this is the bag for you. Testers and analysts were both impressed with just how much they could fit in this Lo & Sons bag. It fit the most out of all the weekender bags we tested, even multiple pairs of shoes. One tester said, "This large weekender bag makes packing and traveling easy," and another shared, " I love the thoughtful design and lightweight nature of this bag! The separate compartment felt very helpful, especially for keeping everything organized."

Because of its oversized design, this bag is best suited for car or train travel where there aren't strict size restrictions. This bag is available in both recycled polyester and canvas with two size options. Testers generally preferred the smaller size as it was still quite spacious.

When the bag was fully packed, testers noted that it was quite heavy to carry, even with the padded shoulder strap. The brand recently launched the Catalina Supreme (largest size option) and the Catalina Deluxe Tote (smaller, personal-item-sized pick).

Many credit the Beis weekender with starting the weekender bag trend in the first place. Available in a range of colors, this chic bag has a classic shape and thoughtful design. It features easily accessible pockets (on the interior and exterior) for added convenience when traveling.

"I like that it sits upright and that the top has structure when it opens, which makes it easier to rifle around in ," shared one tester. The shoe compartment is also structured, which gives the bag a nice shape, but testers found it created a bit of wasted space as they didn't want to pack other items with their shoes. We appreciate that this bag has metal feet on the bottom to protect the base and we like the padded laptop sleeve too.

We tested both the original weekender bag and the mini version. Our testers preferred the mini size as they found the original too large for weekend trips. Plus, the mini size is compliant with airline personal item size restrictions and costs less than $100. Note that during packing tests, we found the zippers a bit finicky to open and close when the bag fully packed.

Great for all types of travel, this versatile duffel from Herschel is compact enough to use as a large weekender bag but spacious enough it could also work for a much longer trip.

It has a classic design with a 600-denier recycled polyester body and faux leather shoulder straps. The material proved to be very durable in our abrasion resistance tests in the Lab. There is a separate shoe compartment and removable crossbody strap with ample cushioning.

Ideal for long weekends or week-long trips , this bag fit everything in our carry-on suitcase packing test. One tester even said "This bag felt never-ending! I was impressed with just how much I could fit." Testers appreciated how comfortable this bag is to carry, but one tester said the crossbody strap broke; she did applaud the brand's customer service for helping her quickly with the issue.

Dagne Dover is a favorite brand among GH editors for a reason: the bags are thoughtfully designed for travel, trendy and comfortably fit everything you need.

In our packing tests, we loved how well-organized this bag was with a padded laptop sleeve, a pouch for a water bottle and an exterior phone pocket . Testers agreed with one saying, "I love how many pockets and organizational features it has. It comes with a bag for shoes and a little mesh-looking zipper bag that I actually put my chargers and stuff in, and it clips onto a string inside so it doesn't get lost at the bottom of my bag."

This pick is available in five sizes; we found that the large size is best suited for weekend trips, but the medium and extra-large sizes could also work depending on your preferences. This bag uses the brand's signature neoprene material, which we found to pill a bit after extensive use.

Ideal for business travel, this sturdy weekender bag keeps its shape even when not full. Away is a best-selling travel brand, offering top-performing carry-on suitcases that consistently ace our luggage testing. The material is water-resistant for easy cleaning after traveling. When packing, we appreciated that the bag fully opens up like a suitcase, so it's easier to place your clothes inside. The leather straps add a chic touch.

"It is easy to pack a lot more than expected because the mesh helps compress everything," said one tester. "It also has extra storage in the fronts of both sides which is great for smaller/flatter things." There is a back sleeve to conveniently place this bag on top of a rolling suitcase; testers said this was key as the bag was quite heavy to carry when fully packed. Note that the Large size would qualify as a carry-on and not a personal item when flying. There are also Small and Medium size options.

Vera Bradley is well known for its classic floral and paisley duffel bags. This weekender version is more compact than the larger duffel, and it's available in both colorful and neutral shades.

This bag can easily squish into tighter, oddly shaped spaces, so you can shove in the trunk between suitcases when traveling. It features a large interior, a roomy exterior zippered pocket (which could be used for one small pair of shoes), a zippered luggage sleeve and two side water bottle holders. It's sleek and easy to wipe clean, thanks to the brand's newer performance twill material.

When traveling, one tester reported, " The fabric was soft and the construction made it easy to fit into smaller spaces . I liked the size of the bag too. It would be an easy carry-on and is the perfect size for a weekend away. The straps were also very comfortable." Testers did wish this bag included a larger separate shoe compartment.

Head on a camping trip or any outdoor adventure with this durable, best-selling pack from Patagonia. This pick can be worn as both a shoulder bag and as a backpack , which is very helpful on longer walks. It's made with 900-denier recycled polyester ripstop with a TPU-film laminate, which impressed us in the Lab for its extreme durability and water resistance.

The padded base helps prevent scuffs or damage from rocks or rougher terrain. While it's available in four sizes, the 40L option is weekender-sized while the others are better suited for longer trips. Testers were blown away with just how much they could fit in this aptly named Black Hole pack. One tester said, "I liked the mesh zipper pocket on the lid (this compartment is perfect for underwear, bathing suits, socks, etc.) and the second zippered pocket which the entire bag can fold into for storage or you can use as a compartment when using the bag."

Multiple testers reported that it was confusing to figure out how to buckle the backpack straps, but once they had them secure, it was a very helpful feature.

Acing our backpack testing, this Cotopaxi backpack cinched the top spot in our best travel backpacks round-up . This backpack opens up flat like a suitcase for easy packing, and it fits an impressive amount — even more than some of the carry-on suitcases we've tested . One tester even said,"I love this backpack. It fits approximately two weeks' worth of clothes in the bag. It has an amazing number of compartments [with] structure and the overall look is fantastic."

We appreciated the padding on the back for comfort and convenience while traveling and both the hip and sternum strap for extra support. The brand is known for its bright colors, but this bag is also available in neutrals. Note that this backpack doesn't have a trolley sleeve, so it won't rest easily on top of a suitcase.

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

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The Best Weekender Bags for Your Next Trip, Tested by Us

Stylish and spacious picks that won’t weigh you down.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks

Final Verdict

Our testing process.

• How to Shop
• More to Consider

Take Our Word for It

Real Simple / Alexander Huang

When you don’t want to cram your belongings in a backpack or lug around a big suitcase , a weekender bag is the happy medium you’re looking for. The compact, lightweight, and durable bag comfortably stores must-have travel items, and it looks nice, too. It’s perfect for short trips and can even be used as a carry on, gym bag, or beach tote.

To help find a weekender bag that can withstand your travel schedule, we put 31 bags up against one another in our NYC lab. We packed them full of items, pushed them off countertops, and carried them around, vetting their design, capacity, organization, portability, durability, and overall value. For expert advice, we interviewed Luigi Auricchio , vice president of design at Away, Angie Rice , co-founder of Boutique Travel Advisers, Jen Perrone , travel adviser at Jen Perrone Travel, and Lindsay Myers , lifestyle and travel expert.

Best Overall

Bellroy classic weekender 45l.

It’s spacious, durable, and never feels bulky or heavy, even when filled to the brim.

Its shoulder strap attaches to plastic clips, which feel flimsier than the rest of the bag.

Balancing size and weight is the central challenge of buying a weekender bag. You want something that’s big enough to hold your stuff but not too heavy or bulky to comfortably carry. Bellroy’s Classic Weekender perfectly threads the needle. 

This 45-liter weekender bag housed our four-day packing list with room to spare, and its wide mouth allowed for easy packing. The bag has four storage compartments—fewer than other weekenders but enough to keep things organized. Even when filled to the brim, it proved comfortable to carry. The bag has two rolled-edge handles, a padded crossbody strap you can adjust or remove, and a unique barrel shape that keeps it from feeling bulky. It’s also made of polyester, so it weighs a mere 2.2 pounds when empty.

Though lightweight, the bag is deceptively sturdy. It showed no signs of wear during our durability tests, and its zippers moved smoothly, even when the bag was packed full. The bag comes in four colors, and it’s available in a smaller (35-liter) size for those who pack light. Our only qualm? The bag’s crossbody strap connects to plastic clips, which feel flimsier and of a lower quality than the rest of the bag. 

Dimensions: 25.6 by 15 by 15.7 inches | Material: Polyester | Weight: 2.2 pounds

Real Simple / Jessica Juliao

Best Budget

Etronik large overnight weekender.

It’s lightweight, spacious, and easy to organize—a better buy than many pricier bags we’ve tested.

It’s soft and doesn’t have a laptop sleeve, so it’s tough to use as a standalone bag.

Great weekender bags typically cost between $100 and $300, but Etronik’s Duffel Bag costs just a fraction of that, and it outperformed pricier bags on storage capacity, carrying comfort, and organizational features. 

The 55-liter bag easily held everything on our four-day packing list, and its numerous compartments helped us keep things organized. The bag has four outer pockets, two inner pockets, and one bottom compartment that holds two pairs of shoes. It also comes with two shoe bags, a packing cube, and a built-in USB port for good measure. Shockingly, the bag doesn’t have a laptop sleeve—an unfortunate oversight that makes it hard to use without other luggage. 

The bag is remarkably soft and lightweight. It’s made of nylon, weighs 2.2 pounds when empty, and has a flexible soft-shell construction. The bag has so little structure we had to hold it closed with two hands to zip it up, which is great from a comfort perspective. The bag’s sturdy top handles and padded crossbody strap make it even easier to carry, but it does feel flimsy. While it withstood our durability tests without damage, we wouldn’t trust it to protect a laptop when subjected to the same wear and tear.

Dimensions: 21.7 by 9.4 by 16.5 inches | Material: Nylon | Weight: 2.2 pounds

Cotopaxi Viaje Weekender Bag

It’s durable, easy to carry, and the perfect size for a two-day trip.

It comes in three eye-catching colorways, which are striking but not very versatile.

If you’re in the market for a smaller weekender bag, Cotopaxi’s Viaje Weekender Bag is a great pick. The 35-liter tote proved to be lightweight, durable, and spacious enough for a two-day trip, holding its own against the bigger duffels we tested.

The weekender is appropriately marketed as a two-day bag. It held our two-day packing list with a little leftover space, and it has several handy compartments, including a large internal pocket, two mid-size outer pockets, and a bottom compartment for shoes or dirty clothes. During our durability tests, the bag felt almost indestructible. While its zipper came slightly open, the bag incurred no wear and tear. The tote is also packed with quality features, like sturdy handles and smooth zippers that don’t stick.

Because the bag is a tote, it’s easier to carry than the average duffel. It has two pairs of handles—one short and one long—and it doesn’t bump into you or get in the way when you walk. We like that you can take the bag anywhere—the gym, the office, or an outdoor getaway. We just wish it looked more versatile. While the bag comes in three colorways, all of them are eye catching and vibrant.

Dimensions: 21 by 12 by 15 inches | Material: Polyester | Weight: 1.5 pounds

Best Compact

July carry all weekender.

Though small and lightweight, it’s sturdy, water resistant, and spacious enough for a two-day trip.

Its interior pockets are small, and its front pocket is hard to use when the bag is full.

At 18 inches wide, 10.5 inches tall, and 8.5 inches deep, July’s Carry All Weekender is dramatically smaller than our other favorites. That said, it passed all our tests and proved to be durable, comfortable, and spacious enough for a two-day trip.

Made of heavy-duty nylon, the bag is water resistant and incredibly sturdy. It showed no signs of damage during our wear-and-tear tests, and it weighs 2.2 pounds when empty—so it’s as heavy as our overall favorite despite being much smaller. The bag has supportive leather handles, a detachable padded shoulder strap, and sturdy metal hardware. Even when filled to the brim, it felt lightweight and comfortable to carry.

Though compact, the bag is the perfect size for a quick trip. With some effort from us, it managed to hold everything on our two-day packing list—plus a laptop. The bag has several pockets, but we wouldn’t mind a few more. The interior pockets are small, and the front pocket was hard to use when the bag was full. The bag also comes in several sleek colors. And though it seems pricey given its size, it felt high quality and built to last—well worth the investment.

Dimensions: 18 by 8.5 by 10.5 inches | Material: Nylon | Weight: 2.2 pounds

Lo & Sons Catalina Supreme

Lo & Sons

It offers lots of storage space and comes loaded with compartments to help you keep things organized.

Like many big weekenders, it’s awkward to carry around and too big to use as a carry on (unless you leave part of it empty).

Lo & Sons’ The Catalina Supreme weekender is one of the biggest bags on our list—a great option for long trips and heavy packers. The bag held everything on our four-day packing list with room to spare. Plus, it’s loaded with compartments that help you organize your stuff.

The 37.5-liter bag impressed us with its storage capacity and organizational features. Its spacious main compartment is lined with small pockets, and its expandable base compartment is great for shoes or dirty clothes. The weekender also comes with a laptop sleeve, cushioned dividers, and adjustable outer straps that can carry extra stuff. Though big, the bag is made of polyester, so it weighs just 4 pounds when empty. It survived our durability tests without any signs of damage.

Unsurprisingly, the bag is a little awkward to carry. It’s as comfortable as it can be, thanks to its light weight and adjustable, padded straps. But it’s still bulky and boxy. It’s also too big to use as a carry on, unless you leave part of it empty. Those are real tradeoffs, but they’re worth taking for the extra storage space. They’re also hard tradeoffs to avoid with any big weekender bag.

Dimensions: 19.7 by 9.5 by 15.5 inches | Material: Polyester | Weight: 4 pounds

Best Durable

Aer travel weekender.

Aer  

It’s packed with heavy-duty features, like a rugged nylon exterior, lockable zippers, and tons of secure compartments.

It’s heavier than other options, and we could feel the extra weight when carrying it.

Every weekender bag on this list passed our durability test, surviving several falls off a counter without much (or any) damage. Aer’s Travel Weekender stands out as a particularly durable option, thanks to its heavy-duty fabric, padded laptop sleeve, and top-notch hardware.

The 35-liter bag is made of ballistic nylon, a rugged material designed to withstand wear and tear. That said, the inside of the bag has a soft woven lining that can safely hold delicate clothing. The bag also has sturdy plastic hardware and heavy-duty zippers you can lock for added security. It features three main compartments as well as several smaller pockets, which keep your stuff organized and secure as you travel. 

The bag also ticks some basic boxes. It housed our four-day packing list with space to spare, and it comes in two versatile colors. At 2.7 pounds, the bag is heavier than other options—and we felt the weight. But the bag’s cushioned handles and shoulder straps keep it comfortable to carry, and its luggage pass-through sleeve lets you store it on top of a roller bag. Plus, we’re happy to carry a few extra ounces if it means keeping our stuff safe from wear and tear.

Dimensions: 19.5 by 9 by 12 inches | Material: Nylon | Weight: 2.7 pounds

Best Leather

Monos metro carry-all duffel.

Its vegan leather exterior isn’t just stylish—it’s also water resistant, scratch resistant, and great at withstanding wear and tear.

It’s heavy and rigid when empty, and its shoulder strap seemed to fray during our tests.

During our tests, Monos’s Metro Carry-All Duffel stood out as a favorite. It’s sleek, sturdy, spacious, and easy to carry anywhere. It’s also the only bag on our list made of vegan leather rather than polyester or nylon.

The bag is small but spacious—handily housing our four-day packing list with enough space for another sweatshirt or pair of shoes . The bag’s wide mouth and two-way zipper make it easy to pack, and its vegan leather exterior feels thick but flexible, offering just enough give for overpackers. The material is also scratch resistant, water resistant, and incredibly durable, surviving several falls off a countertop with no signs of damage.

The bag is heavy (4.14 pounds), and it maintains its shape when empty, meaning it doesn’t get smaller, even when you pack light. Despite this, the bag is still comfortable to carry. Its round shape isn’t cumbersome, its thick handles feel nice, and its padded shoulder strap never slips out of place. The shoulder strap did seem to fray during our tests, and we wish it was made of nicer fabric, but the rest of the weekender screams quality. At $260, the bag may be an investment, but it feels more like a steal.

Dimensions: 20 by 10.4 by 12 inches | Material: Vegan leather | Weight: 4.14 pounds

Most Stylish

Béis the commuter duffle.

It’s sleek, sturdy, and packed with spacious compartments—a great pick for style-minded travelers.

Despite its relatively small size, it’s one of the heaviest weekenders on our list.

If you want a weekender that looks great carrying your stuff, The Commuter Duffel by BÉIS is a perfect choice. The bag has a sleek silhouette and stylish vegan leather detailing. And it doesn’t skimp on durability, storage space, or organizational features.

The 24.2-liter bag feels spacious and well organized. It has six interior compartments and four exterior compartments, including a laptop sleeve and a zipper compartment for shoes or dirty clothes. The bag felt a little snug holding our four-day packing list, but it’s the perfect size for weekend trips. Plus, it comes with handles, a shoulder strap, and a luggage sleeve, so you can easily use it as a carry on.

What impressed us most about this bag is how heavy duty it is. Everything—from its nylon exterior to its mesh interior pockets—feels high-quality and made to last. The bag incurred no damage during our wear-and-tear tests. Its base is lined with metal feet that keep it from slumping over, and the bag is heavier than other weekenders, weighing 3.15 pounds (but it never felt uncomfortable to carry). It’s also one of the more affordable bags on our list—a deal worth snapping up.

Dimensions: 21.5 by 9 by 12 inches | Material: Nylon | Weight: 3.15 pounds

Best Lightweight

Mz wallace nik.

It’s made of a lightweight quilted fabric that’s durable, protective, and comfortable to carry around.

Its shoulder strap is made of nylon, so it isn’t as comfortable as the rest of the bag.

MZ Wallace’s Nik Duffel is one of the lightest weekenders we fell in love with. It weighs just 2.1 pounds when empty and was a breeze to carry when full.

While many weekenders are made of thick polyester or rugged nylon, this one is made of REC Oxford, a fabric made from recycled materials. That fabric is lightweight and flexible, but it isn’t flimsy: The bag got through our durability tests with no signs of damage. Plus, it’s quilted, so it provides protective padding without extra weight. It also boasts nine interior pockets and seven exterior pockets, making it easy to keep things secure, organized, and protected throughout your travels.

Though lightweight, the weekender offers plenty of storage space. It held our two-day packing list with so much ease that we’d feel comfortable bringing it on a longer trip. It felt genuinely comfortable to carry, even when full. The bag has two sturdy handles and an adjustable shoulder strap—one we wish was quilted and cushioned like the rest of the bag. The bag is also available in six colorways. While it’s expensive, it balances portability and durability better than any other weekender on our list.

Dimensions: 16.9 by 7.1 by 12.2 inches | Material: Recycled materials | Weight: 2.1 pounds

Best Convertible

Dagne dover lagos convertible duffel bag.

Dagne Dover

It’s spacious, has a lot of pockets, and is convertible, so you can carry it as a handheld duffel, crossbody bag, or backpack.

It gets heavy fast and has so many pockets we worried about losing things inside the bag.

Dagne’s Dover Lagos Convertible Duffle is a spacious duffel that doubles as a backpack, a unique feature that sets it apart from the other weekenders we tested. But even without the two-in-one design, it’s a great bag: It’s massive, durable, and absolutely loaded with pockets.

The 50-liter bag is so spacious we’d dare call it cavernous. It handily accommodated our four-day packing list, and you could likely bring it with you on a weeklong trip. The bag is laden with pockets, has two padded laptop sleeves, and comes with a removable shoe bag, a key leash, and two metal D rings. These storage features are great for organization, but there are so many we actually worried about losing things inside the bag.

The recycled polyester bag weighs 3.8 pounds when empty, and it gets heavy as you fill it with stuff. We’d be mindful of this weight when traveling. The bag’s rolled handles, padded shoulder strap, and padded backpack straps make carrying more manageable. The bag also proved durable, protecting everything inside it—including two laptops—during several drops. It’s also available in four colorways and a smaller size (32 liters) that still offers lots of storage space and pockets.

Dimensions: 19.5 by 12 by 12 inches | Material: Recycled polyester | Weight: 3.8 pounds

Best With a Shoe Compartment

Calpak luka duffel bag.

It’s lightweight, compact, and packed with handy pockets and a spacious shoe compartment.

It isn’t cushioned—and its laptop sleeve isn’t padded—so we wouldn’t trust it to protect electronics.

Several of our favorite weekenders have shoe compartments, but Calpak’s Luka Duffel is one of the smallest bags that does. Though the weekender is sleek, compact, and perfect for short trips, its shoe compartment is big enough for two pairs of shoes or one pair of tall boots .

At 16 inches wide, 7 inches deep, and 12 inches tall, the bag is genuinely compact, but it easily held everything on our two-day packing list and could probably work for longer trips if you pack light. The bag has nine pockets—including that bottom shoe compartment—to help you keep things organized. Unfortunately, its laptop sleeve isn’t padded, though.

The bag is lightweight and comfortable to carry. It weighs just 2.1 pounds when empty and has two short handles and a long adjustable strap that makes a good shoulder strap but an uncomfortable crossbody strap. Made of water- and scratch-resistant polyester, the bag is surprisingly durable. It survived several falls without any damage, but due to its lack of cushioning, we wouldn’t trust it to protect electronics. The bag is also sleek, and it’s currently available in over a dozen pretty colors. Even Rice loves it. “This bag has accompanied me around the world,” she says.

Dimensions: 16 by 7 by 12 inches | Material: Polyester | Weight: 2.1 pounds

Best for Organization

Nomad lane v4 bento bag.

It offers more storage and organization features than other small bags, and its quality and durability make it a great investment piece.

It’s heavy for its size, and it’s one of the priciest bags on our list.

Nomad Lane’s V4 Bento Bag is the ultimate small but mighty weekender. At 17 inches wide, 8 inches deep, and 10 inches tall, the bag is one of the smallest on our list, but it’s loaded with pockets, offering a level of organization you rarely get with compact bags.

The 24-liter bag is deceptively spacious. It held everything on our two-day packing list with space to spare, and its plentiful pockets made it easy to keep everything organized. The bag has two main compartments, a padded laptop sleeve, and several inner and outer pockets. It even comes with a toiletry bag and a tech organizer. The weekender also folds open like a clamshell, giving you easy access to everything inside.

The bag is made of weather-resistant nylon and finished with leather details. It proved incredibly durable, surviving three falls without exterior scuffs or interior shifting. And all of its zippers ran smoothly, even when the bag was packed full. At 2.76 pounds, the bag is heavy for its size, but its rolled handles and adjustable shoulder strap make it comfortable to carry. The bag is also expensive, but it’s a worthy investment piece given its durable construction, handy features, and quality feel.

Dimensions: 17 by 8 by 10 inches | Material: Nylon | Weight: 2.76 pounds

Bellroy’s Classic 45L Weekender is our top pick, because it offers plenty of storage space without feeling bulky or heavy. We also love Etronik’s Duffel Bag , a lightweight and spacious bag that’s especially great if you’re shopping on a budget.

To find the best weekenders, we vetted 31 bags in our lab, subjecting each to a series of tests that simulated real-life conditions. We began with a brief assessment of each bag, noting its material, hardware, and straps for durability; its general size and weight; its pockets and compartments; and any special features.

We then packed the bag like we would if we were taking a quick trip. We established a two-day packing list for smaller bags and a four-day packing list for larger bags and noted how easily each weekender held our belongings, whether it was hard to zip, and if it had room to spare? We then spent five minutes walking around with the bag we’d just packed, assessing how comfortable it was to carry and whether it felt heavy, bulky, or cumbersome.

To mimic the wear and tear of travel, we also pushed each packed bag off a counter three times. We checked for signs of damage (like scratches, marks, and scuffs) and we noted whether the bag’s contents stayed secure and protected. 

After vetting each bag for design, storage capacity, portability, and durability, we considered its overall value: Was it worth the money? Every weekender on our list passed this test, meaning we’d pay full price for it and recommend it to our friends.

How to Shop for Weekender Bags Like a Pro

Size and weight.

Your weekender bag should be big enough to hold your stuff but not so bulky or heavy that it’s uncomfortable to carry. The right balance will vary from person to person—and from trip to trip. Auricchio says to ask yourself what environment you will be traveling in, how often you will be carrying the bag throughout your journey, and what you need to bring with you. 

If you need lots of storage space, favor lightweight fabrics, like polyester and nylon. Rice recommends compressible silhouettes that cut down on bulk, and Aurrichio recommends comfortable carry features, like padded and adjustable straps. 

If you want to use your bag as a carry on, you should also double check size restrictions, Rice says. Many airlines limit carry-on size to 22 inches by 9 inches by 14 inches—smaller than some of the weekenders on our list. Personal items are even smaller: about 17 inches by 9 inches by 10 inches.

A weekender bag’s material directly impacts its feel, durability, and weight—all important considerations when buying a bag. While the experts we spoke to have different favorite materials, all four recommend something lightweight, sturdy, and water resistant.

“Avoid materials prone to wear and tear, as the longevity of a weekender bag depends significantly on the quality of its construction,” Aurrichio says. He specifically recommends weekenders made of nylon, canvas, and faux leather, because they tend to be stylish and durable. Myers prefers neoprene (sturdy and easy to clean), and Perrone likes polyester and nylon (durable and water resistant). Rice recommends anything waterproof.

During our tests, we gravitated toward the same materials: Five of our favorite weekenders are made of polyester, five are made of nylon, and one is made of faux leather. (The outlier is blended from unspecified recycled materials.)

Many weekender bags have special features, like storage compartments, charging ports, and adjustable straps, but some are handier than others. “Don’t get distracted by features that won’t have a real impact on your travel experience,” Aurrichio says. “Instead, focus on the details that make traveling more seamless.”

Our experts favor practical features, like durable zippers (which make bags last longer), adjustable straps (which make bags more comfortable), and clamshell openings (which make packing easier). Pockets and compartments are great, but too many weigh down a bag and waste precious storage space. Similarly, charging ports are nice but not worth paying extra for when outlets are abundant, Myers says.

This rang true during our tests. Clamshell openings, well-organized compartments, and adjustable straps made bags easier to pack and carry. Bags with too many pockets or too few compartments were tougher to pack, and bags with sturdy zippers held up better during our durability tests.

More Weekender Bags to Consider

Quince Italian Leather Triple Compartment Weekender : This leather weekender is one of the sleekest bags we tested, and we loved that it felt durable and high quality. Unfortunately, it’s small—a two-day bag at most. It’s also expensive and heavy, weighing 4 pounds when empty.

Mark & Graham Beckett Waxed Canvas and Leather Weekender : This waxed canvas bag is lightweight and space efficient, capable of accommodating our four-day packing list and easy to store away between trips. It’s expensive, and it would benefit from more pockets and compartments, but there was little we didn’t like about it.

Questions You Might Ask

How can you tell if a weekender bag is high quality.

High-quality weekender bags are well crafted from top to bottom. They look nice, feel sturdy, have thoughtfully designed compartments, and are finished with top-notch details, like hardy zippers, reinforced stitching, and durable straps. 

“Conversely, low-quality bags may show a lack of attention to detail through fraying seams, flimsy zippers, low-quality materials, unstable structures that deform over time, or inferior organization,” Aurrichio says.

What type of weekender bag will never go out of style?

“Timeless weekender bags often feature classic and purpose-driven designs that transcend trends,” Aurrichio says. “Neutral colors, minimalist aesthetics, high-quality textures, and durable materials contribute significantly to a timeless design.” 

While it may sound counterintuitive, you should favor function over form: The best timeless weekender bags are durable, well-organized, and understated—versatile enough to carry on a range of trips.

How much do weekender bags typically cost?

You can find great weekender bags at every price point. Our favorites range from $51 to $350, with an average price of $218 and a median price of $192. Our experts say the best weekender bags are reliable, high quality, and long lasting, and it’s often worth spending extra to get something that will last. 

“It should last you a while, so spend a little bit more,” Myers says. Our favorite weekender bag, Bellroy’s Classic 45L Weekender , feels like an investment (but not a splurge) at just under $200.

This article was written by Lindsey Lanquist , a Real Simple contributing writer. To find the best weekender bags, we tested 31 bags in our lab, evaluating them for design, capacity, organization, portability, durability, and overall value. We also consulted four travel and luggage experts: Luigi Auricchio , vice president of design at Away, Angie Rice , co-founder of Boutique Travel Advisers, Jen Perrone , travel adviser at Jen Perrone Travel, and Lindsay Myers , lifestyle and travel expert.

Related Articles

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.

The Best Places to Travel Alone

Tags: Travel , Travel Gear , Weekend Getaways

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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The 17 Best Weekend Bags for a Quick Getaway

Save yourself the trouble of trying to squeeze all your necessities into a too-small gym bag or lugging around a large rolling suitcase—on your next short trip, opt for these perfect weekender bags instead..

• Copy Link copied

Whether you’re a backpack, tote bag, or duffel person, there’s a weekend bag for you.

Courtesy of Cotopaxi, Lo & Sons, and Hamilton Perkins Collection

All frequent travelers should consider adding a weekend bag—or “weekender bag”—to their luggage collection . The best weekender bag is both practical and versatile; it should be sturdy enough that you can use it to pack for a rugged mountain trip but stylish enough that you’d bring it along to a bustling city. Not all bags are built the same. Depending on your preferences, a weekender can be a large tote, a backpack, or duffel bag and made from leather and canvas, sturdy weather-resistant polyester, or even recycled plastic bottles.

In terms of size, it’s not quite a gym bag, not exactly an overnight bag, and nowhere near a large roller suitcase. The ideal pick shouldn’t be too big (you don’t need that many belongings for a few days), but it also shouldn’t be too small (for sufficient room to pack the necessities). In general, you’ll want to look for a bag with a capacity somewhere between 30 and 50 liters to fit everything you’ll need for a short trip. Anything over 50 liters is likely to be larger than the 22 x 14 x 9 inches most domestic airlines allow for carry-ons placed in overhead bins. Anything smaller than 30 liters is generally left to the lightest packers or for overnight trips. If you’d like your weekender bag to double as a personal item on an airplane, keep in mind that underseat space varies widely by airline, but is generally limited to around 18 x 14 x 8 inches, for reference.

With those factors in mind, here are the best weekend bags for a quick two- or three-day trip.

• Best weekend backpack: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack
• Best weekend tote bag: Lo & Sons Catalina Deluxe Small
• Best convertible duffel pack: Osprey Arcane Duffel Pack
• Best under $100: Herschel Novel Duffle Bag
• Best design-forward duffel: Baboon Go-Bag (Small)
• Best canvas weekender bag: Paravel Weekender
• Best for chronic overpackers: Patagonia Black Hole Duffel Bag 55L
• Best for ultra-light packers: Dagne Dover Landon Carryall Large
• Best for staying organized: Tortuga Backpacks 35L Setout
• Best weekender bag with shoe compartment: Away the Weekender Bag
• Best for photographers: Wandrd Hexad Access Duffel
• Best for campers: Eagle Creek Migrate Duffel 40L
• Best for road-trippers: ForestBound Escape Collection
• Best ecofriendly option: Hamilton Perkins Collection Earth Bag Premium
• Best water-resistant option: Rains Weekend Bag
• Best virtually indestructible option: The North Face Base Camp 50L Duffel

The Allpa 35L Travel Pack comes in “Indigo” (pictured above), “Evergreen,” “Spruce,” and “Black,” and all have a detachable waist belt.

Courtesy of Cotopaxi

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack

Best weekend backpack.

• Buy now: $200, cotopaxi.com
• Capacity: 35 liters
• Dimensions: 20 x 12 x 8 inches
• Weight: 3 lbs. 8 oz.

There’s a reason the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack is popular for getaways: a carry-on, duffel, and backpack all in one, the bag is an organized packer’s dream, with zippered compartments for laptops, passports, keys, and clothes. Other notable design features include exterior shortcuts to main internal compartments—like the padded laptop sleeve—and “theft-proof webbing,” which lets you tuck in the bag’s zippers so it can’t be opened without you noticing. The bag’s shell is coated with thermoplastic polyurethane, rendering it completely waterproof, but the Allpa also comes with a removable rain cover for an extra layer of protection. —Katherine LaGrave, digital features editor

The Catalina Deluxe comes in “Dove Grey” (pictured above), as well as 10 other color options.

Courtesy of Lo & Sons

Lo & Sons Catalina Deluxe Small

Best weekend tote bag.

• Buy Now: From $158, loandsons.com
• Capacity: 32.2 liters
• Dimensions: 18 x 8.5 x 16 inches
• Weight: 1.9 lbs. (canvas) and 2.4 lbs. (recycled polyester)

The Catalina Deluxe may look like a straightforward tote bag, but it comes with plenty of options to suit your personal preferences. You can choose from three materials (canvas, organic canvas, and recycled polyester) as well as 11 different colors. While both the Catalina Deluxe Small and Large weekender bags are carry-on approved, we prefer the small version for two- to four-day trips. Both bags come with a bottom pocket separate from the main interior for storing shoes (it even comes with an insert that gives the bag more structure and can be removed and wiped down). —Lyndsey Matthews, destination news editor

The Arcane Duffel Pack comes in “Stonewash Black” (pictured above), as well as “Stargazer Blue” and “Haybale Green.”

Courtesy of Osprey

Osprey Arcane Duffel Pack

Best convertible duffel pack.

• Buy now: $130, osprey.com
• Capacity: 30 liters
• Dimensions: 18.5 x 12.2 x 10.63 inches
• Weight: 1.89 lbs.

The Arcane Duffel Pack from Osprey is a tough little tote made with a twill-like recycled polyester fabric, but its clean lines and simple shape feel classy enough to carry just about anywhere—from the office to the tarmac to the great outdoors. And unlike many convertible duffels, it actually looks like a backpack when you’re wearing it as a backpack and it looks like a duffel when you’ve tucked away the backpack straps in favor of the longer, clip-in shoulder strap. It also features a clamshell opening, so you can pack and unpack it like a suitcase. And while some people like lots of bells, whistles, and built-in storage options, I am a minimalist. I like that the Arcane has one large pouch stored beneath an external zipper on the bag’s top. There’s an additional large, mesh pocket under the lid, great for socks or dirty T-shirts, and a padded laptop sleeve for a 15-inch computer against the back of the bag. It’s easy and low-maintenance, but makes me look a lot more put-together than I usually am. —Maggie Fuller, associate digital editor

Herschel Supply Co. offers the Novel Duffle Bag in black, navy, and dark olive.

Courtesy of Nordstrom

Herschel Novel Duffle Bag

Best under $100.

• Buy now: $90, herschel.com
• Capacity: 42.5 liters
• Dimensions: 11.75 x 20.5 x 11 inches
• Weight: 2 lbs.

Herschel Supply Co.’s secret to success is simple design, as evidenced by the Herschel Novel Duffle. The 42.5-liter bag is built with one large internal compartment, plus an external zip shoe compartment so you can keep the rest of your belongings separate and fresh. It features removable padded shoulder straps that can easily be hidden or tightened along the side and fits most airline carry-on size requirements. (The bag is also made from a durable waterproof polyester with a waterproof zip.) —Sarah Buder, assistant digital editor

Go-Bags are sold in loud blue, teal, and orange combinations, but the bags are also offered in black and gray.

Courtesy of Baboon

Baboon Go-Bag (Small)

Best design-forward duffel.

• Buy now: $149, baboontothemoon.com
• Capacity: 40 liters
• Dimensions: 12.5 x 20.5 x 12.5 inches
• Weight: 3.5 lbs.

Baboon’s Go-Bags are as fun to travel with as they are to look at. The design-forward duffels, which are released in limited-run batches, feature vibrant colorways with custom internal prints that are unique to each specific product “drop.” (When one particular Go-Bag color combination is sold out, it’s sold out for good.) With “a 3+ day packing volume designed for weekend getaways,” a waterproof shell, internal and external pockets, plus adjustable straps that can be used to carry the duffel like a backpack, Baboon’s 40-liter Go-Bags aren’t just trendy, they’re practical, too. Oh, and the bags are designed to meet TSA guidelines and fit in airline overhead bins. —S.B.

Paravel Weekender

Best canvas weekender bag.

• Buy now: $295, tourparavel.com
• Capacity: 29.5 liters
• Dimensions: 15 x 8 x 15 inches
• Weight: 2 lbs. 6 oz.

Paravel’s timeless and stylish designs make this cotton canvas weekender bag with leather details a worthwhile investment. Spacious enough to fit two to three days of clothes, a dopp kit, and a 15-inch laptop, this bag comes with a detachable shoulder strap so you can go hands free on the weekends. For longer trips, this bag also includes leather straps that slip over the handle of your rolling suitcase, making it ideal to use as a personal item, too. —L.M.

Patagonia’s Black Hole Duffel is available in a variety of colors, including green, blue, gray, and black.

Courtesy of Patagonia

Patagonia Black Hole Duffel Bag 55L

Best for chronic overpackers.

• Buy now: $139, patagonia.com ; backcountry.com ; rei.com
• Capacity: 55 liters
• Dimensions: 26.7 x 15.7 x 11.8 inches
• Weight: 2 lbs. 9.1 oz.

If you’re looking for a weekend travel bag that is big enough to pack extra gear in for the great outdoors, go with Patagonia’s Black Hole Duffel. The 55-liter bag features a durable water-repellent finish with weather-resistant laminate, padded shoulder straps for easy carrying, plus multiple internal and external pockets with a thick base to protect the bag’s contents. Made by environmentally conscious outdoor gear company Patagonia, the duffel bag is also ecofriendly: It is made from 100 percent recycled polyester fabric, 100 percent recycled polyester lining, and 100 percent recycled nylon webbing. (The same duffel bag is available in a slightly smaller carry-on friendly 40-liter size , too, if you won’t be packing extra gear.) —S.B.

The Landon Carryall comes in “Onyx” (seen here), as well as “Dark Moss,” “Storm,” “Ash Blue,” “Heather Grey,” “Dune,” and several seasonal limited edition colors.

Courtesy of Dagne Dover

Dagne Dover Landon Carryall Large

Best for ultra-light packers.

• Buy now: $185, dagnedover.com
• Capacity: 29 liters
• Dimensions: 16.5 x 9 x 11 inches
• Weight : 2 lbs.

Made with lightweight, hand-washable, and quick-drying neoprene, the Dagne Dover Landon Carryall can take whatever you throw at it each weekend without weighing you down. You can choose from six core colors, including basic black and gray, or more trendy hues of “ash blue” and dusty pink “dune” (look for limited edition color releases each season, too). This bag comes in five different sizes, but the “large” is sized to fit underneath most airplane seats as a personal item and also comes with a dedicated laptop sleeve, exterior phone pocket, and an interior big enough to pack essentials for a two- or three-day trip. If you’re looking for something slightly larger for long weekends, the 42-liter “extra large” bag is also carry-on compliant. —L.M.

The 35L Setout comes in black (seen here) as well as a heather gray option.

Courtesy of Tortuga

Tortuga Backpacks 35L Setout

Best for staying organized.

• Buy now : $179, tortugabackpacks.com
• Capacity : 35 liters
• Dimensions : 21.5 x 13.5 x 7.5 inches
• Weight: 3.4 lbs.

Designed with urban adventures and digital nomads in mind, the Setout collection by Tortuga Backpacks combines the portability of a backpack with the practicality of a suitcase. Unlike a traditional top-opening backpack, the Setout (and all backpacks by Tortuga) unzips on three sides to allow for easy access. Inside, you’ll find dedicated pockets for stashing small travel accessories , separating clothes, and ready access to your laptop to help you keep everything organized. The Setout also stands out for its quality and durability. Its polyester fabric, made from recycled water bottles, is protected with water-resistant, Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coating and made to last years of adventures. Breathable, injection-molded foam and air mesh padding, and removable hip belts allow for comfortable carrying. The line includes two size options, 35 liters and 45 liters (we love the 35-liter as a weekend bag, but both are carry-on friendly), as well as a men’s and women’s fit to ensure the backpack fits comfortably on your hips. —Jessie Beck, SEO manager

The Weekender comes in a natural canvas shade with brown leather details, an all-black version, plus an olive green duffel with black leather accents.

Courtesy of Away

Away the Weekender Bag

Best weekender bag with shoe compartment.

• Buy now: from $225, away.com
• Capacity: 38.7 liters
• Dimensions: 21.7 x 8.7 x 12.6 inches
• Weight: 4.85 lbs. (canvas) and 3.75 lbs. (nylon)

Away’s the Weekender has a 38.7-liter capacity, which is about the same as the company’s small roller suitcase (but significantly more than the Everywhere Bag, which is made to be a personal item that fits underneath your seat instead of a true carry-on). Choose from either a water-resistant nylon or textured cotton canvas material. Both styles come with a padded laptop sleeve that fits up to a 15-inch laptop, a fully lined exterior shoe compartment to keep footwear separate, as well as a detachable padded shoulder strap, and two zippered exterior pockets to keep your phone and other essentials handy. It’s sized to fit in an airplane’s overhead bin, but the bag is also well-suited for road trips, train rides, and other situations where a wheeled suitcase can be inconvenient. —S.B.

Wandrd Hexad Access Duffel

Best for photographers.

• Buy now: $259, wandrd.com
• Capacity: 45 liters
• Dimensions: 9 x 14 x 22 inches
• Weight: 3.9 lbs.

For photographers who don’t want to bring a second gear bag on short three- to five-day trips, Wandrd built this carry-on-sized duffel pack with both layflat, clamshell, and side packing access. On one side you’ll find an open compartment for clothes, while the other side has two side-access compartments so you can grab your camera quickly without unzipping the entire bag. (When you don’t need your camera, the padded camera cubes are removable to make more room for other essentials.) Other highly functional details include a laptop sleeve that fits up to a 16-inch Macbook Pro, an RFID secure pocket for your passport, and an expandable shoe pocket to keep the rest of your gear and clothes clean. —L.M.

The Migrate Duffel 40L comes in “Sahara Yellow” (pictured above), “Arctic Blue,” “Coral Sunset,” and “Jet Black.”

Courtesy of Eagle Creek

Eagle Creek Migrate Duffel 40L

Best for campers.

• Buy now: $79, eaglecreek.com
• Dimensions: 10.25 x 18.5 x 9.5 inches
• Weight: 2 lbs. 1 oz.

Eagle Creek’s carry-on sized Migrate Duffel 40L is truly a bag of all trades. You can carry it like a backpack, a classic duffel, or even an oversized tote thanks to its easily convertible handles. In addition to being made with water-repellent coating that was developed using plastics sourced from landfills in Asia, an internal “storm flap” makes the 40-liter weekend travel bag extra water-resistant—because summertime camping trips sometimes involve toughing those sudden, unexpected rainstorms. —S.B.

Related Camping Checklist: What to Pack for a Comfy Night Under the Stars

The Escape Canvas Weekender is made using beige canvas and vegetable-tanned leather.

Courtesy of ForestBound

ForestBound Escape Weekender

Best for road-trippers.

• Buy now: $199, forestbound.com
• Capacity: 38.5 liters
• Dimensions: 21 x 14 x 8 inches
• Weight: n/a

For those who prefer to support small businesses, ForestBound’s Escape Canvas Weekender bag is a very attractive option. (All ForestBound products are designed, cut, sewn, and shipped from one Massachusetts-based studio.) The Escape bag is built with a large interior pocket for easy storage of essential small items—just enough room to pack for a quick weekend on the road. A lightweight aluminum frame gives the bag structure, while its vegetable-tanned leather exterior base and water-resistant interior bottom panel keep your belongings safe. You can even personalize the cute canvas bag with a custom monogram for $20 extra. —S.B.

The Earth Bag Premium comes in yellow (seen here), as well as red, seafoam green, olive, white, and more.

Courtesy of Hamilton Perkins Collection

Hamilton Perkins Collection Earth Bag Premium

Best ecofriendly option.

• Buy now: $158, hamiltonperkins.com
• Capacity: 36 liters
• Dimensions: 20 x 11 x 10 inches
• Weight: 2.5 lbs.

This two-in-one duffel and backpack is sustainably made using recycled plastic water bottles and pineapple leaf fiber for the exteriors, and repurposed billboard vinyls for the interior lining. The thoughtful travel bags come in different colors from the yellow seen here to bright red and seafoam green as well as subtle shades of olive and white. If you’re an extremely light packer—or looking for a new gym or overnight bag—the 27-liter Earth Bag Lite is made from the same materials and costs only $95. —L.M.

The Rains Weekend Bag comes in navy (pictured above), black, green, gray, beige, as well as shiny black and brown versions.

Courtesy of Rains

Rains Weekend Bag

Best water-resistant option.

• Buy now: $95, us.rains.com
• Capacity: 46 liters
• Dimensions: 13.4 x 23.6 x 9.1 inches
• Weight: 1.2 lbs.

If you’re looking for an option that doesn’t scream “adventure traveler,” this chic water-resistant weekender by Copenhagen-based Rains is ideal for city getaways to drizzly destinations. Made with a waterproof matte outer material in seven different colors, the water-resistant zippers will protect your belongings from a downpour (but won’t keep water out if it’s fully submerged). With one large main compartment and a detachable shoulder strap, this bag is best for minimalists who don’t want to fuss with extra pockets and straps. —L.M.

The North Face Base Camp Duffel is offered in red, blue, green, black, khaki, and other colors.

Courtesy of Backcountry

The North Face Base Camp 50L Duffel

Best virtually indestructible option.

• Buy now: $120, thenorthface.com ; backcountry.com ; rei.com
• Capacity: 50 liters
• Dimensions: 12.8 x 20.87 x 12.8 inches
• Weight: 2 lbs. 11.39 oz.

We fully agree with The North Face’s statement that just because you’re taking a quick trip, it “doesn’t mean that you should settle for luggage that’s going to fall apart.” Its Base Camp 50L Duffel is built with a durable laminate material to protect your belongings from rough luggage carousels at the airport and weather in the wilderness. The bag features a water-resistant top flap to keep elements out, plus exterior mesh pockets and four compression straps to help optimize packing space. The bag also has convertible handles so you can carry it as a duffel or a backpack. —S.B.

The segments in the Matador SEG30 Backpack allow you to separate your belongings by type or by day.

Courtesy of Matador

SEG30 Segmented Backpack by Matador

Best for compartmentalization.

• Buy now: $150, matadorup.com
• Dimensions: 18.5 x 9.5 x 9.5 inches
• Weight: 1.52 lbs.

For travelers who want maximum organization but minimal bulk, the Matador SEG30 beckons. The lightweight, 30-liter backpack includes four segmented compartments that act like built-in packing cubes. As your trip unfolds, use the full-access clamshell zipper to stash larger items like dirty laundry and shoes. Better yet, there’s also a dedicated laptop compartment and zippered water bottle pocket. Another bonus? It’s waterproof (yes, even the zippers are sealed for water resistance). —L.M.

This article originally appeared online in July 2019; it was updated on July 17, 2020, to include current information.

>>Next: The Best Weekend Getaways in the United States

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21 best weekender bags for your next getaway, according to our editors

By Madison Flager , Meaghan Kenny and Charley Ward

Whether you're planning a quick road trip to the nearest beach or a much-needed couple's getaway, spending a few days away calls for a sturdy, stylish, and functional travel bag. We often turn to our favourite weekenders to hold everything we need for short trips and overnight stays. The best weekender bags are roomy enough to carry your clothes, toiletries , and a pair of comfortable shoes or two but not so bulky as to slow you down while dashing to catch a train or sting you with airline baggage fees. A separate compartment for dirty clothes or shoes is always welcome, too. To narrow down the styles that are worth your pounds (and storage space), our editors put dozens of duffels and expandable totes to the test from top luggage brands like Away, Béis, Antler, Nere, and more.

The best weekender bags at a glance

How we choose the best weekender bags:

Our editors spent months testing out these weekenders, bringing them on two-day getaways, overnights, and camping trips, and using them as our personal items on flights. We considered each bag's weight, capacity, design, and how well it held up after several trips. We also paid close attention to unique features that make a bag stand out against other options on the market, like having ample pockets or a separate shoe compartment. Below, the 19 best weekenders of 2024, from budget-friendly options to splurge-worthy designer bags.

BEIS The Weekender

Weight: 1.8kg Dimensions: W48.5 x D25 x H40cm Capacity : 49L Features: Separate storage compartment underneath, trolley sleeve, key leash, 15” laptop pocket, removable shoulder strap

There’s lots to like about this weekender, aka the inaugural piece from Insta-favourite luggage brand BEIS. The chic design, matching accessories and diverse colour selection are all big draws, but the best thing about this bag could also be a drawback – namely, it’s absolutely massive. There's more than enough space for five-day trips, and probably longer, with clever packing. It means it can be heavy when full, but if this isn’t an issue for you, you’ll be rewarded with a stylish, minimal bag that Mary Poppins would be proud of, with a separate compartment beneath with room for at least three pairs of shoes, or shoes plus a hairdryer and wash bag . Overpackers, look no further.

Troubadour Weekender

Weight: 1.5kg Dimensions: W48 x H33 xD23cm Capacity: 32L Features: Detachable shoulder strap, trolley sleeve, padded 17” laptop pocket, waterproof exterior, five-year guarantee

Discerning travellers will be impressed with B Corp Troubadour’s choice selection of smart, sustainable bags. Its understated range of weekenders, backpacks and smaller bags are made from fully recycled and recyclable materials and come with an impressive five-year guarantee. This svelte weekender is on the smaller side, so it can be used as an under-seat cabin bag on most UK airlines. Don’t let the smaller footprint fool you – digital deputy editor Sarah James loves this bag for its deceptive roominess, comfortably covering a full weekend’s worth of outfit changes and shoes in the special compartment on a recent trip. Inside, there’s an additional valuables pocket and laptop slip, and the exterior pocket doubles as a trolley sleeve when unzipped.

Stubble & Co The Weekender

Weight: 1.65kg, 1.7kg Dimensions: W55 x H27 x D25cm, W61 x H35 x D29cm Capacity: 40L, 60L Features: 16” laptop compartment, trolley sleeve, outer slip pocket, padded leather shoulder pad, inner valuables pocket

We’re big fans of Stubble & Co’s Adventure Bag and the brand’s weekender is another fabulous buy. There are multiple pockets for essentials, a dedicated laptop compartment and a well-padded strap to take a load off while toting it from taxi to hotel room. YKK zips give peace of mind they won’t bust even when the bag is full to bursting, and a luggage sleeve makes navigating airports as easy as can be. It’s made with water-resistant canvas, finished with leather trims, that gives it a more luxe feel than the Adventure Bag, it comes in a choice of four sophisticated colours and, as a bonus, there are two sizes, both with the same number of pockets.

Carl Friedrik Compact Weekender

Dimensions: W46 x H28 x D18cm Features: Two interior pockets, wide zipped pocket; external slip pocket

From luxury luggage brand Carl Friedrik comes its new chic-as-you-like compact weekender. Compact is the word here – it is on the smaller side, working more as an overnighter than a weekend bag unless you forgo bringing additional shoes. We like it most as a smart underseat cabin bag. Provided you don’t fill it to the brim, it will suit most UK airlines, and there’s space for all your onboard essentials, laptop and an outfit change. The biggest draw is its handsome appearance; the leather straps and understated styling make it one of the most sophisticated options we’ve found.

Nere Canvas Duffle Bag

Weight:  0.75kg Dimensions: 31 x 55 x 26cm Capacity: 44L Features: Detachable crossbody strap, machine washable

Australian luggage brand Nere has recently made its way to the UK with its trend-led selection of bags, suitcases and travel accessories at surprisingly pleasing price points. We can see why they’ve become a favourite with the Instagram crowd; the range comes in a selection of pretty sorbet shades that will stand out on your social feeds and the luggage carousel alike. This canvas weekender bag is a roomy 44L, making it one of the largest on our list. It has a passthrough sleeve to attach to your case and can be slung in the washing machine when needed. There are just two external pockets, but given the generously-sized main compartment, we’re not sure that matters.

Bellroy Classic Weekender 35L

Weight:  0.7kg Dimensions: Capacity: 33L Features: Snap-down ends, wide opening, key hook, grab loops, luggage pass-through

Bellroy is especially good at designing bags that make the most of every inch of space, and this smart weekender is no exception. There are plenty of pockets for electricals and valuables, including an easy-access pocket at the front with a key clip. Snap down ends allow for easy packing, there’s a passthrough band to attach it to your suitcase and grab handles at each end. In contrast to the brand’s sling bag , which has been developed to be super-lightweight, the material here feels weighty and luxe – you’d never know it’s been made solely from recycled PET plastic bottles. At 35L, it’s perfectly large enough for a three-to-four-day trip.

Antler Chelsea overnight bag

Weight: 0.8kg Dimensions: 41.5 x 26 x 18cm Capacity: 20L Features: Detachable shoulder strap, passthrough sleeve, leather handles, fits as an underseat cabin bag on easyJet flights

It might be called an overnight bag, but if you pack strategically Antler's Chelsea bag can easily work as a weekender. I travelled with it on a recent trip to Barcelona and could comfortably fit a weekend's worth of clothes and toiletries. Although if you need to pack extra shoes, there's room for a pair of flip flops but little more. If you're a frequent flyer, this is a worthy investment – in addition to numerous internal and external pockets and compartments, including a laptop sleeve and a water bottle pouch, it also has an over-handle sleeve, making it an ideal option to take on a long-haul flight . The bag is made in a durable water-resistant nylon and comes in nine different colour options, which of course match their Chelsea suitcase range . See our full Antler Chelsea overnight bag review for more. Lauren Burvill

Fjällräven Kånken Weekender

Weight:  0.65kg Dimensions: 30 x 44 x 20 cm Capacity: 30L Features: Detachable crossbody strap, backpack straps, 17" laptop pocket, expandable outer pocket

Fjällräven's weekender retains the style and charm of the brand’s popular backpacks , just made a little larger for your weekend trips. Unusually, this bag has straps on the back, so it can be used as a holdall, a cross-body, or a backpack, upping its versatility. It has an expandable front compartment, a couple of inner pockets, and a 30L capacity. It comes in the brand’s signature array of cool colours. As a consummate over-packer, I was initially dubious that I’d fit everything I needed in this bag – it looks rather compact at first glance. However, I was happily proven wrong. By rolling my clothes, I fit a full three days worth of belongings in, along with a washbag and an additional pair of shoes in the front pocket. Also, as I don’t drive, I appreciate the backpack straps – they make it much easier to cart my stuff around when I’m heading off somewhere on foot. For that reason, I will start using it as a gym bag, too. Charley Ward

Connor Sturges

Paris Wilson

Lucy Bruton

Emma Henderson

July Carry All Weekender Plus

Weight: 2kg Dimensions: 57 x 23 x 32cm Capacity: 50L Features: Clamshell opening, trolley sleeve, gunmetal feet on base

The best part of this weekender: the clamshell opening, which allows the bag to lie completely flat for easy packing. With a roomy 50-litre capacity and an internal padded pocket that fits a 16" laptop, you've got a good amount of space in here for an overnight stay or a two-night trip. Contributor Juliet Izon tested out this bag when we were on the hunt for the best weekenders in 2021, and was able to pack “everything I needed for a four-day trip to Asheville, North Carolina, including all the outfit changes I wanted for a weekend in the unpredictable weather of the mountains.” Its smart design, sleek look, and spacious compartments make it deserving of a spot on our list this year, too.

Paravel Weekender

Weight: 1.8kg Dimensions: 38 x 20 x 38cm Capacity: 55L Features: Trolley sleeve, removable and adjustable shoulder strap, hand-painted or embroidered initials available

Paravel's timeless Weekender, made from 12 upcycled plastic water bottles, is at the top of our list when it comes to investment bags. The thick cotton canvas exterior is beautifully stitched and elevated by leather accents, while the easy-to-clean nylon interior can withstand a shampoo or water bottle spill. It's a tried-and-true travel essential for US senior commerce editor Madison Flager , who says it's one of her most aesthetically pleasing bags and most functional, too. It's roomier than it looks, fitting a weekend's worth of clothes, with space for a pair of shoes, wash bag and laptop. Inside, there are two deep zippered pockets for sliding in a pair of flats or sandals, chargers, or any other odds and ends you want with you. “It’s a great bag to use as a personal item — I’ve used it for overnight trips, but more often I use it to carry things I want with me in-flight (Kindle, charger, snacks, etc), plus any overflow that didn’t make it into my carry-on luggage , like a toiletry or makeup bag,” says Flager. It comes with an adjustable, removable strap to wear as a crossbody or on your shoulder, and has sturdy leather top handles and a trolley sleeve to secure to a suitcase on longer trips.

Away The Large Everywhere Bag

Weight: 1.7kg Dimensions: 53 x 22 x 30cm Capacity: 38L Features: Trolley sleeve, 15" laptop pocket, detachable padded shoulder strap

Away is a trusted brand among Traveller editors for quality and functionality. Made of a water-resistant nylon and leather trim, the Large Everywhere bag is the biggest of the brand's best-selling style, with enough room to fit three or four days' worth of clothing. It features a clamshell opening, which makes it easy to pack and find everything you're looking for once you arrive. Store clothes in the roomy main compartment and put smaller items like chargers, beauty products, or toiletries in the zippered mesh pockets. Thanks to the convenient trolley sleeve, it fits nicely on top of your Away carry-on. And if you're heading on a business trip, an exterior padded laptop pocket fits computers up to 15 inches. Carry it by the top handle or the padded detachable strap.

Lululemon City Adventurer large duffel bag

Dimensions: 46 x 30 x 23cm Capacity: 29L Features: Trolley sleeve, detachable strap, padded laptop pocket

If you're a Lululemon's ultra-popular belt bag fan, you'll likely fall in love with this weekender, too. Made of a similar smooth, water-repellant fabric, the sporty bag comes in silver or black. This is another favourite of US Traveller associate commerce editor Meaghan Kenny's: “It’s the perfect size for a weekender bag — not too big or too small. It gives you just enough room for two to three outfits without becoming too heavy or bulky to carry around. Plus, it fits under the seat on an aeroplane, making it a great personal item.” This lightweight duffle opens wide to fit plenty of clothes and has two mesh pockets and a zippered compartment for keeping important items extra secure. Carry it by the top handles or across your body, and use the trolley sleeve to secure it to luggage when needed. Another plus: It can be folded up nearly flat to store away when not in use.

MZ Wallace Nik Duffel

Weight: 0.9kg Dimensions: 3×18×31cm Features: Detachable crossbody strap, black leather protective feet, trolley sleeve, water-resistant exterior

MZ Wallace's Nik duffel bag is a new favourite of Flager — she's used it as an overnight bag when dog-sitting, as a personal item when flying to Florida for a cruise, and for a weekend trip to Boston. Thanks to its quilted fabric, it's incredibly lightweight at just over two pounds. On the bag's exterior are two deep zippered pockets for small items you'll want to grab easily during transit, like your wallet or passport . Inside, there's a laptop sleeve, a detachable lightweight pouch, and two more slip pockets that Flager uses to store things like sunglasses and glasses. “As a personal item, it’s super roomy—when I took it on a cruise, it was a good size to hold all the things I wanted to keep with me when boarding, including my toiletry bag, a pouch with medicine, another with makeup, and a bathing suit and pool coverup,” she says. What we love most about this duffel: its many pockets, water-resistant material, and polished look.

Monos Metro Duffel

Weight: 1.3kg Dimensions: 41 x 32 x 11cm Capacity: 22L Features: Removable exterior pouch, laptop compartment, trolley sleeve

Monos’s Metro line features polished bags made of only vegan materials, including the equivalent of 16 repurposed plastic water bottles per bag. “This is not just a beautiful bag (get used to the compliments!), it’s also the most organised duffle I’ve ever owned, with a spot for everything,” says global digital director Arati Menon . “The interiors are incredibly roomy and come with pockets that fit everything from your laptop to water bottle. And when you run out of space inside, just snap on one of Monos’ interchangeable kits to the front to put all your necessities (phone, wallet, passport) within easy reach. You could even snap off a kit to double up as a clutch in a pinch.”

Béis The Weekender Bag

Weight: 1.75kg Dimensions: 48 x 41 x 25cm Capacity: 49L Features: Removable shoulder strap, trolley sleeve, separate shoe compartment, padded laptop sleeve

With a water-resistant and pocket-filled interior, plus an extra roomy bottom compartment that fits several pairs of shoes or those souvenirs you can’t bear to leave behind, this understatedly chic travel tote has enough nooks and crannies to keep even the worst over-packer in line. And the structured frame opening on top keeps the bag wide open — or securely shut —when needed. In addition to gaining a ton of buzz on social media for its “cool girl” aesthetic, the Béis Weekender is also a favourite among Traveler US editors, including Flager. It's her go-to tote for true weekend trips — “I use the outer pocket for my phone and ID, and I love the key leash—it’s nice to have a dedicated spot for my house keys so I’m not digging around upon return,” she says. The Béis Weekender is available in a mini size, too, which is better suited as a personal item or a one-night bag.

Patagonia Black Hole Duffel Bag 70L

Weight: 0.6kg Dimensions: 71 x 33 x 44cm Capacity: 70L Features: Ergonomic shoulder straps, weather-resistant material, padded base

Made from 100 per cent recycled fabric, Patagonia's weather- and abrasion-resistant duffle is one of the most durable on our list. It's also one of our largest options, holding 70 litres of gear. The padded and removable ergonomic shoulder straps let you carry this duffel like a backpack and detach it when not in use. US senior features editor Rebecca Misner easily packed enough clothes for a two-week road trip from San Fransisco and says it held up beautifully — even after constantly throwing it around the back of her car. And it's water-resistant, so the unexpected shower that came when she was unpacking the car in Portland, Oregon, was no big deal. Its U-shaped top zipper allows the bag to open wide for easy access to everything in the main compartment, which makes packing it and finding belongings a breeze. “It’s a fantastic piece of luggage for a road trip or any adventure travel, but I wouldn't take it on a plane unless I was going on a trip where very minimal lifting would be required. If you keep the weight down, most people should be able to carry it comfortably by its straps,” says Misner. She's looking forward to using it as a ski trip bag this winter: “I won’t worry about throwing it in the back of the car with my skis — scratching or tearing won’t be an issue. Plus, if it gets wet from my ski boots or if I’m loading it in snow, it will wick away any moisture.”

Herschel Supply Co. Tech Novel duffel

Weight: 1.3kg Dimensions: 52 x 28 x 32cm Capacity: 45L Features: 16" laptop compartment, removable padded shoulder strap, trolley sleeve, shoe compartment

Available in classic colours like black, navy, green, and light and dark grey, this sleek weekender from Herschel was recently redesigned to be made with 100 per cent recycled materials. It features a long, padded adjustable strap, a shoe compartment, a trolley sleeve, and a slew of organisers to help keep devices from getting jumbled. This spacious duffle was tested by Kenny, who says this: “It's versatile enough to take you from the gym to a camping trip to a weekend break. The bag’s design is simple yet elevated enough to work for any type of traveller at any age.” She noted the ultra-soft laptop compartment is separate from the bag's main section, so your laptop is well-protected during transit. Travellers can easily fit three days of clothing in this duffel, making it a great option for extended weekend trips away. And at £150, it's well-priced and will be a great travel companion for years to come.

Baboon Go-Bag (40L)

Weight: 1.5kg Dimensions: 52 x 32 x 27cm Capacity: 40L Features: Backpack straps and removable shoulder strap, waterproof shell

We're big fans of Baboon's indestructible bags — they will stand up to any cargo bin, overhead compartment, or car boot they're tossed in. Flager has taken this on several adventure-type trips and says, “It’s exactly what you want when you don’t want to be concerned about the elements damaging your bag.” And with a selection of bold, bright colours, they'll be easy to spot on a luggage carousel and put a smile on your face when packing. The detachable, adjustable shoulder straps are a nice touch, too. While it's a great option for two to four days away, we wouldn't recommend this as a true backpacking bag because of its fabric, which can feel a little stiff.

Everlane The ReNew Transit weekender

Dimensions: 49 x 18 x 36cm Features: Made of 100 per cent recycled polyester, laptop compartment, trolley sleeve

This go-with-everything oversized tote is a minimalist’s dream. Everlane's ReNew Transit weekender has become a go-to for Spurrell ever since she first brought it on a weeklong trip to Egypt. “This makes a fantastic, roomy personal item to top your carry-on for a trip when you probably should check a bag but refuse to. It’s also perfect for a casual one-nighter when you just want to throw pyjamas, an outfit or two, and some other essentials inside,” she says. The bag features a wider bottom than the top, which is great for filling it to the brim without dealing with items spilling out in the back seat. “It’s quite comfy on the shoulders, even in sleeveless clothes with which other straps might dig in, though the padded section of the strap doesn’t sit on your shoulders unless you extend the length quite a bit (I prefer to keep the straps short so the bag sits right under my arm),” says Spurrell. We also love that it's constructed out of recycled polyester (made from 36.6 renewed plastic bottles) that’s also water-resistant. Plus, it fits just as effortlessly in the overhead compartment as it does in the luggage Tetris of a car boot.

Rothy’s The Weekender

Weight: 1.9kg Dimensions: 53 x 23 x 35cm Features: Zipper exterior laptop pocket, machine washable, adjustable and removable shoulder strap

Made from the brand’s signature 100 per cent recycled materials (like marine bound plastic) and available in colourblock prints and understated patterns like midnight camo, this roomy tote has all the makings of a go-to weekender. The main compartment is flanked by easy-access compartments with a magnetic closure on one side and zippered one on the other — perfect for storing keys, travel documents, a Kindle, and anything else you might reach for during the journey. US destinations editor Shannon McMahon recommends it for an extended weekend trip: “I found it most useful for beach weekends away where I needed a lot of big accessories, like floppy hats, multiple jackets, and cosy sweatshirts. It’s less plane-friendly because of its sheer size, but I got away with it as a personal item on a recent trip.” At an eye-popping £650, it is one of the most expensive weekenders we tested. And while you can definitely opt for an equally functional bag with a less hefty price tag, you do get plenty of packing space with Rothy's weekender and are supporting a sustainability initiative. McMahon says it's indestructible and incredibly durable, too. And since travel can get messy, we love how, like everything else in Rothy’s collection, the bag is fully machine washable — just remove the base insert and throw it and the bag into the accompanying wash bag and right into your laundry.

Louis Vuitton Keepall 55

Weight: 2.2kg Dimensions: 56 x 23 x 30cm Features: Padlock luggage tag, double zip closure, detachable shoulder strap

If you're looking to elevate your luggage collection, the Louis Vuitton Keepall 55 is about as classic as it gets. This roomy duffle, tested by Kenny, features the iconic logo emblazoned on the outside of the bag, offering a chic and timeless style. Inside, there's one main spacious compartment that fits two days' worth of clothes and a toiletry bag, and a side zippered pocket for smaller essentials like a phone charger or a pair of sunglasses. Travellers can carry it by its top handle or with the detachable shoulder strap. And the best part: Its leather exterior gets better with age.

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• Accessories

The 12 Best Weekender Bags That Make Packing a Breeze, Tested & Reviewed

Must-haves for your next getaway.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks

What to Keep in Mind

Your questions, answered, why shop with us.

InStyle / Alli Waataja

Packing is easily one of the more stressful aspects of travel, but having  travel bag  can make the process (and subsequently lugging it all to your bus or flight) much less daunting. When your travel plans extend a long holiday weekend or less, there’s no need to bust out heavy and bulky rolling luggage — instead, reach for a weekender bag. Typically in the form of a duffle or tote (and, sometimes, a backpack), they’re much more compact than the average trolly and usually can only hold a few days’ worth of belongings or less, depending on its size.

A good weekender bag should be functional, specifically for the trip in question and your personal needs. Will you need to pack bulkier items, like sweaters and boots? Are you a habitual overpacker who needs extra room? Of course, there are a few universal characteristics that any weekender bag should have, no matter the trip in question: It should have a variety of different pockets, compartments, and dividers to keep your belongings organized and accessible; it should be crafted from a durable material that protects your things and won’t rip, tear, or wear out over time; and it should be comfortable and easy to carry because no one wants a backache after navigating the maze that is an airport terminal.

We put more than 30 of today’s top-rated weekender bags to the test to see which ones are worth the hype. We took a lot of factors into consideration when testing each bag — not only its capacity to hold all of the necessities on our list, but also its durability, portability, organizational features, and overall design and value . We also tapped a team of expert accessories designers and fashion stylists to weigh in and share their tips for choosing the right style. Whether you have an overnight business trip or three-day weekend plans, check out your best options, ahead.

Best Overall

Béis the commuter duffle.

What We Love: It’s sleek and simple on the outside, yet its interior has organizational compartments and pockets aplenty.

What We Don’t Love: The bag has some weight to it.

We’re giving top honors to this roomy duffle bag from Béis, which is sleek on the outside and incredibly functional on the inside. For starters, it’s much more spacious than it appears — we weren’t initially sure if it would better serve a two-day trip or be able to fit enough for a long weekend away, but we found it could fit at least four days’ worth of necessities.

Where this bag really shines is its organizational features. On the outside, it keeps things simple with a single zippered pocket and simple slip pockets on the remaining sides, while the inside has a total of five pockets (one zippered, two mesh, and two elastic), a velcro padded laptop pocket that can fit up to a 15-inch laptop on top of its capacious main compartment, and a luggage handle sleeve longer. Regarding its durability, we found that the design was top-notch quality and never once worried the nylon body could rip — we even dropped it four times and found that there was no damage whatsoever — and found the webbing along the inner pockets to be impressively heavy duty. Moreover, since most of the bag is nylon, it comes with a much more reasonable price tag than its leather counterparts.

Overall, we were super pleased with this duffle, our only qualm being that the bag itself, empty, is on the heavier side. But even though we found it slightly cumbersome at times, it’s still comfortable to carry thanks to the webbed, padded shoulder strap, so the extra weight was in no way a dealbreaker.

Material: Nylon body, polyurethane trim, polyester lining | Dimensions: 21 (L) x 8 (W) x 11.5 (H) inches | Capacity: 24.22 L | Other Features: Adjustable/removable padded strap, 4 exterior pockets, 5 interior pockets, luggage handle sleeve, laptop pocket with velcro closure

InStyle / Alexander Huang

InStyle /J essica Juliao

InStyle / Jessica Juliao

Best with Compartments

Lo & sons catalina supreme.

Lo & Sons

What We Love: It boasts plenty of thoughtful organizational compartments, like customizable velcro dividers and a bottom pocket.

What We Don’t Love: The extra-large design can be a little awkward to carry.

If you’re going away for a longer period — think four days or more — a bag that’s spacious and has ample organization features will be your best friend, ensuring your things stay neat, orderly, and easy to find (nobody wants to dig through multiple days of outfits just to find their toothbrush). This luxe multifunctional bag from Lo & Sons is exactly that, boasting so. Many. Compartments.

In addition to a litany of interior pockets and an exterior 16-inch laptop sleeve , we appreciated the thoughtful expandable bottom pocket, which is ideal for storing things we’d want to keep separate, like shoes. Another boon is the customizable padded divider, which allowed us to adjust the interior compartment sizing to fit our needs. The one thing to keep in mind is that, given its spacious interior and many pocket organizers, the bag is big . While this deems it extra useful for longer trips, we found that, at times, it is somewhat awkward — even tiring — to carry. Still , the shoulder strap with adjustable padding makes for comfortable wear, so we didn’t experience any digging or achy shoulders, even when we did stuff it.

At $350, this bag is a bit pricey, and frankly, we think it’s a little steep for what you get. But if you’re an organization buff (or a Virgo) willing to splurge a little, this is the bag for you.

Material: Recycled polyester exterior, cactus leather handles | Dimensions: 19.7 (L) x 9.5 (W) 15.5 (H) inches | Capacity: 27.9 L | Other Features: One adjustable/removable padded strap, exterior laptop pocket, one multi-purpose exterior strap, expandable bottom compartment, luggage handle sleeve, multiple interior pockets

Best Leather

Quince triple compartment weekender.

What We Love: It doesn’t look like a weekender, but rather an oversized purse.

What We Don’t Love: Some pockets are too narrow or unequipped to organize small items.

Your weekender bag doesn’t *just* need to be a vessel for carrying all of your vacation needs — it can be just as stylish as the rest of your accessories, too. One of the things we really loved about this leather weekender is that, well, it doesn’t look like a weekender, but rather a sleek oversized purse . It’s constructed with beautiful Italian leather that we found to be quite durable — we dropped it three times, and it showed no damage or scratches whatsoever. It’s “heavy” in a way that a quality leather bag would be, but it was still comfortable to carry up and down the stairs.

It’s the perfect size for a two-day getaway, and its many compartments and pockets help keep things separated (though some of them are too narrow, and there weren’t enough options for small items like keys). At the same time, we’d need something a bit more spacious for longer trips or winter getaways where we’d be packing bulkier clothing.

Overall, it’s one of the more expensive bags on this list, but we were impressed enough to deem it worth its over-$200 price tag.

Material : Italian leather body, cotton twill lining | Dimensions: 20.5 (L) x 6.5 (W) x 13 (H) inches | Capacity: Not listed | Other Features: 3 zipper compartments, center compartment with 3 slip pockets and one zip pocket, luggage handle sleeve

Best Expandable

Longchamp le pliage 21-inch expandable travel bag.

What We Love: It’s super roomy, and when fully expanded, it could fit enough for a four-day trip or more.

What We Don’t Love: It’s lacking organizers and pockets.

Weekender bags that can expand are super handy, allowing you to use them for a multitude of travel situations, whether a 48-hour work trip or skipping town for a few days with friends. That’s where Longchamp’s Le Pliage 21-inch expandable bag comes in (which, yes, is essentially a giant version of the iconic, celeb-loved tote).

This bag is spacious . We found that when the middle section was unzipped and the bag was fully expanded, there was more than enough room for everything we needed for a four-day trip. When it’s zipped up to its smallest size, it was the perfect size for a two-day trip. It’s made from that same durable, water-resistant nylon we all know and love, keeping things nice and light despite its size. It comes with a removable shoulder strap, but we also appreciate that the top handles are large enough to squeeze our arms through to wear on our shoulders.

It’s pricey, but we can attest to the brand’s totes holding up for years, so we think it’s a worthy investment given its longevity and durability. Plus, you’re basically getting two bags in one — what’s not to love? The only thing we think can be improved is its lack of organizers and pockets — it’s essentially one giant compartment with one small interior pocket, so we recommend investing in some packing cubes if you like to keep things needed and orderly.

Material: Water-resistant nylon body; leather trim and handles | Dimensions: 17.75 (L) x 9 (W) x 20.5 (H) inches | Capacity: XL | Other Features: Adjustable/removable strap, interior wall pocket, water-resistant lining

Best Splurge

Rothy’s the weekender.

What We Love: It’s spacious, stylish, and machine washable.

What We Don’t Love: It doesn’t have an exterior pocket.

If we’re going to shell out on a weekender bag, it needs to be durable, functional, and a style we’d want to show off. This travel bag from Rothys is just that: It’s clean and minimalist on the outside, crafted from the brand’s sturdy signature recycled plastic (and machine-washable!) knit, and the interior is designed with multiple compartments and pockets to keep our goods organized.

We found it to be the perfect size — it’s large, but not so large that it's cumbersome , and we could easily pack it with several days’ worth of necessities, so long as we don’t need to pack anything overly bulky. The thick, structured fabric did a great job at keeping our belongings protected even through a drop test, but even empty, it has some weight. The adjustable shoulder strap allowed for comfortable carrying when walking short distances — however, anything longer than 10–15 minutes would start to feel too heavy.

Overall, we scored this bag high, but if there were one thing we could change, we’d add an exterior zippered pocket for easy access to our phones, keys, and wallets.

Material: Recycled plastic | Dimensions: 21.5 (L) x 8.9 (W) x 13.8 (H) inches | Capacity: Not listed | Other Features: Double-zipper top closure, padded handles, adjustable/removable shoulder strap, 1 magnetic side compartment with interior zipper pocket, 1 zipper side compartment for laptop

Calpak Luka Duffel Bag

What We Love: It’s compact yet surprisingly roomy.

What We Don’t Love: It doesn’t have a laptop sleeve.

For shorter trips — or longer vacations that require packing nothing more than a couple of bikinis and a bottle of SPF — you don’t need to go overboard with an oversized weekender. This duffle from Calpak is ideal for such occasions, fitting all items on our list for a two-day getaway.

It’s designed with eight pockets (interior and exterior), which help simplify the packing process, and even has an exterior shoe compartment with room for two pairs of shoes (or one pair of boots). The luggage handle sleeve also makes it convenient for plopping on top of your carry-on roller bag as your personal item (yep, it’s that small). The bag is also extremely light, making it easy to grab on the go. We wouldn’t go as far as to say the water-resistant polyester is more durable than other bags we’ve tried, but it passed the drop test with flying colors, keeping our belongings protected and not showing any signs of outer damage. It can be worn multiple ways thanks to shoulder straps and a removable crossbody stra p — though we think the shoulder straps are ten times more comfortable.

Overall, we think it’s a great bag, but we wouldn’t mind if it also included a padded laptop sleeve. Ringing in at under $150, it’s one of the more affordable options out there, but given the material, we expected the price to be even lower.

Material: Polyester | Dimensions: 16 (L) x 7 (W) x 12 (H) inches | Capacity: 22 L | Other Features: Adjustable/removable strap, 8 pockets (interior and exterior), shoe compartment, luggage handle sleeve

Best Canvas

Mark & graham beckett waxed canvas and leather weekender.

Mark & Graham

What We Love: It’s lightweight yet durable and functional.

What We Don’t Love: It could use more interior organizers.

Canvas is another popular material used in travel bags due to its durability and the fact that it’s not as heavy as leather. This bag from Mark & Graham provides the best of both worlds: a lightweight waxed canvas body with leather trims that lend a sense of luxury.

One of the first things we noticed is that the wax coating isn’t solely for aesthetic purposes; it also adds an extra layer of durability to the design. It held up well throughout our various tests, and the waxed surface prevented any wear and tear from showing, making it well worth its price tag.

It’s also comfortable — in fact, we thought it was more comfortable than nylon. Despite packing it with a few days’ worth of stuff (which fit perfectly, mind you) , its thick canvas straps make carrying easy , and we’d think it’s important to particularly call out how comfortable the longer strap was for our shoulders and how well it wore on a shorter torso. This bag could easily be carried through the airport all day with ease, in our opinion.

We also love the look of this bag — it’s something that a “chic Indiana Jones” might carry; it feels both adventurous and professional with a masculine vibe. While we wouldn’t be mad if it had more interior organizers like a shoe compartment, overall, it’s a solid bag that served us well.

Material: Waxed canvas and leather body; cotton twill interior; brass hardware | Dimensions: 21 (L) x 10 (W) x 12 (H)  inches | Capacity: Not listed | Other Features: Removable padded strap, interior and exterior zipper pockets, interior padded laptop sleeve

Best Minimalist

Monos metro carry-all duffel.

What We Love: Sleek in design, it’s surprisingly deep and spacious.

What We Don’t Love: The shoulder strap is somewhat flimsy.

For a bag that seamlessly blends into your travel ensemble, we’re big fans of this minimalist duffle from Monos. It’s roomy enough for an extended weekend trip, yet portable — it’s sturdy and maintains its rigid shape when empty, but it’s not at all heavy . The bag’s rounded silhouette and top zipper create a wide opening that makes packing a breeze, while interior pockets make its large main compartment easy to keep organized. The exterior features a luggage sleeve that can convert into a sleeve pocket, which we found to be really convenient, and we appreciated the spacious button pockets that can be found on each end of the bag.

From a durability standpoint, the bag itself is of superior quality. The faux leather material is thick and substantial yet flexible enough for comfortable wear, and after multiple tests, there were no signs of any wear or damage . The area that needs some improvement is its shoulder strap — it didn’t feel as high quality as the rest of the bag, and it seemed to have slightly frayed during the testing period, leaving us curious how much of a problem it would become over time with more use. Still, we found this bag to be elegant, high-quality, and worthy of its luxury-leaning price tag.

Material: Vegan leather body, cotton twill lining | Dimensions: 20 (L) x 10.4 (W) x 12 (H)  inches | Capacity: 27.3 L | Other Features: Two-way zipper closure, 16-inch laptop compartment, interior zipper pocket, tech sleeve pockets, water bottle pocket, exterior magnetic pockets, luggage handle sleeve

Best Extra-Large

Bellroy classic weekender 45l.

What We Love: It’s huge but not at all heavy.

What We Don’t Love: We wish the removable strap didn’t clip diagonally across the zipper and the bag clips were sturdier.

Sometimes, you need to pack a lot for a short trip, whether you’re traveling to a cold destination requiring many layers or your itinerary is filled with different events and activities involving multiple outfit changes. That’s where this extra-large duffel comes in — it may look unsophisticated at first glance, but it’s actually quite impressive.

For starters, it’s huge. We packed enough for a four-day trip — including two pairs of shoes — and still had plenty of room to spare. While its spacious interior didn’t include as many organizers as other bags on this list, the large exterior zipper pocket, two inner pouches, and small interior compartment made it easy to access important items, no matter how stuffed the bag was.

Despite its generous 45L capacity , it was still incredibly comfortable to carry . We noticed that larger bags tend to feel bulky and heavy when carried crossbody, but we were impressed by how lightweight and comfortable this bag was. The recycled polyester body kept our belongings safe and showed no signs of wear and tear after the testing period, though we wish the strap clips were made from metal rather than plastic, ensuring stronger durability. For under $200, this bag is a reasonable option for chronic overpackers and others with lengthier packing lists.

Material: Recycled PET plastic polyester | Dimensions: 650 (L) x 380 (W) x 400 (H) millimeters | Capacity: 45 L | Other Features: Removable padded strap, external key-clip pocket, internal slip pockets, internal AirTag pocket, raised mesh zip pocket for valuables, luggage handle sleeve

Best Convertible

Dagne dover lagos convertible duffel bag.

Dagne Dover

What We Love: This duffle-backpack hybrid contains so many pockets and compartments for organized packing.

What We Don’t Love: It comes in medium and large, and we wish it came in a small option.

There’s a lot to love about this sturdy duffle bag, which earned a perfect score across all categories. For one, it’s designed with plenty of organization features — think multiple interior and exterior pockets (some with pockets within pockets!), a laptop sleeve, a removable shoe bag, and various liners and straps to hang other items via carabiners. It’s also extremely durable, protecting our stuff and itself through numerous drop tests; we have good reason to believe it would last a decade of regular use with no issues.

What makes this bag stand out is its convertible features. While it comes with the usual top handles and removable crossbody strap you’ll find with most weekenders, it also boasts removable padded backpack straps (which are easily packed into their own little zippered pockets), a boon for when it’s filled with heavier goods or we’re on the run.

Ringing in at just over $300, it’s not the most budget-friendly option, but given its size, durability, convertibility, and sheer amount of organizational features, it’s well worth the price. It’s by no means a simple design, but we think it makes the perfect bag for the frequent traveler who needs to stay organized.

Material: Recycled 900D polyester body, Repreve recycled polyester lining, color-plated zinc alloy hardware | Dimensions: 16 (L) x 11 (W) x 11 (H) inches | Capacity: 32 L | Other Features: Adjustable/removable crossbody strap, detachable padded neoprene strap wrap, padded backpack straps, detachable key leash, 13-inch laptop sleeve, shoe compartment, multiple interior and exterior pockets, luggage handle sleeve

Best Personal Item

July carry all weekender.

What We Love: It’s durable, functional, and will fit underneath the standard economy seat.

What We Don’t Love: It could use more organizers.

Another bag we felt deserved high marks this carry-all from buzzy travel brand July. Not all weekender bags are compact enough to fit the general airline standards for personal items, so we appreciate that this bag fits those dimensions — a major plus for frequent flyers. Sleek and stylish, it’s a welcomed addition to our airport ‘fits, too.

From a design perspective, it’s a very functional bag. Crafted from a quality nylon twill, it passed all durability tests, and we think that even if it did get scuffed or dirty, it would be easy to wipe clean. The padded shoulder strap and leather-lined tote straps are comfortable for over-the-shoulder carrying, and the luggage sleeve makes it easy to stack on top of our carry-on rollers.

While we wouldn’t mind a few additional pockets and compartments for organizing, we think it’s a versatile bag adept for multiple modes of transportation, flights included — and well worth the $200 price tag . Remember, this is a personal item-sized bag, so you’re not going to squeeze in more than a couple of days’ worth of belongings. We found that it was best for an overnight trip, a two-night trip at the most; it was somewhat hard to zipper shut after with all our items packed.

Material: Twill nylon body; leather handles and trims | Dimensions: 18 (L) x 8.5 (W) x 10.5 (H) inches | Capacity: 28L | Other Features: Adjustable/removable shoulder strap, exterior zip pocket with two internal compartments, internal dividers and zipped pockets, 16-inch padded laptop pocket, luggage handle sleeve, external D-rings for attachments

Best Duffle

Aer travel weekender.

Aer  

What We Love: It has a timeless utilitarian appeal.

What We Don’t Love: It’s not as lightweight as some other options on this list.

This weekender is a solid option for longer trips: The medium-sized bag easily fits all items on our four-day packing list with some room to spare. We credit this in part to its loads of organization features .

In addition to a spacious main cavity, it also includes a reasonably sized front pocket, a back laptop compartment, and plenty of smaller pockets and compartments in between. We found it comfortable to carry short distances thanks to cushioned straps , but it does get pretty heavy when packed to the brim, and it would probably start to get uncomfortable over long periods. In terms of durability, it’s pretty solid; there were no signs of wear and tear after we dropped it several times.

While it isn’t the most style-forward option — it’s pretty no-frills on the aesthetics front — we think it’d serve those with a utilitarian ethos pretty well. After all, it’s high-quality, sturdy, and versatile in its simplicity, making for a great value overall.

Material: 680D Cordura ballistic nylon exterior, soft woven lining, Duraflex plastic hardware | Dimensions: 19.5 (L) x 9 (W) x 12 (H) | Capacity: 35 L | Other Features: 16-inch padded laptop pocket, a back pocket, two water bottle pockets, shoulder strap, luggage handle sleeve, lockable zippers

• Durability: What your weekender bag is made of will not only play into its look and feel, but also its functionality — how durable it is, how heavy it is when packed, and how easily it can squeeze under a plane seat or the jam-packed trunk of a car. Common weekend bag materials include nylon, neoprene, leather, canvas, and polyester, explains fashion stylist Audree Kate López . If you want a resilient, lightweight, and water-resistant bag you can clean easily and store away when you’re not using, accessories design consultant Neerja Jindal considers nylon your best option. Personal stylist Desiree Miranda is partial to neoprene for its softness, water resistance, and ability to hold its shape over time. Leather has a luxe look and feel and is quite durable, but it’s not waterproof and can’t always be squeezed into tight spaces like nylon or neoprene. Canvas is another hardwearing option, and we love that Mark & Graham’s Canvas Beckett Weekender adds an extra layer of durability with a wax coating.
• Size and Capacity: Next, you’ll want to ensure your bag is large and spacious enough to fit all your things, which will vary based on factors like where you’re headed and how long you’ll be there. A good rule of thumb? “It should be able to carry all travel-related essentials for 24-48 hours,” says Jindal. While dimensions matter here, depth and capacity are the most important. “I find that some bags are too narrow or not flexible enough to stuff everything in, so you want to make sure the space of the actual bag actually suits your needs,” López says.
• Organizational Compartments: The experts agree that the more pockets, compartments, and other organizational features, the better. Outer slip and zippered pockets are great for quick, easy access to important items — think grabbing for your passport as you approach the TSA agent — while inner compartments and dividers will make the packing, unpacking, and repacking process much easier. Elizabeth Money , Senior Vice President of Brand and Creative at BÉIS, recommends looking for products that feature details like padded laptop pockets and key leashes to keep your belongings neat and accessible. (The BÉIS The Commuter Duffle and Lo & Sons The Catalina Supreme are two bags designed with a litany of organizers.)
• Padded Handles and Straps: Many weekender bag styles come with two strap options: top handles for carrying by hand and a longer shoulder strap for when you need to be hands-free. When you’re running through the train station or simply lugging your bag up a few flights of stairs, the shoulder strap will come in handy — but the heavier your bag, the more likely it is to cause shoulder pain. Padded straps will ensure they don’t dig, no matter how many pairs of shoes you’ve stuffed into your bag. Look for padded top handles, too, notes Jindal: “A fully-loaded bag can end up weighing quite a bit, so soft and padded grab handles will help prevent pain.” The many straps on the Dagne Dover Large Lagos Convertible Duffle are padded, allowing for comfortable carrying, whether worn over your shoulder or as a backpack.
• Ease of Use: A weekender bag is for more than just a short road trip. All four experts consider a luggage handle sleeve a non-negotiable for air travel. “This is one of the most important features, in my opinion, given that most people have a trolley bag and use a weekender as cabin luggage,” says Jindal. “Carrying both separately can be painful; with this feature, the luggage is not only a breeze to carry but is compact as one piece.” ( CALPAK’s Luka Duffel is among the many on our list with this feature.)

How big should a weekender bag be?

“In general, it should be big enough to hold all of your essentials for a short trip away, yet small enough to throw over your shoulder if need be,” says Miranda. “The ideal dimensions would be around 16 inches long, 9 inches wide, and 11 inches high.” Of course, how big of a weekender bag you’ll need will depend on where you’re going, how long you’re going for, and what kind of clothing and accessories you’ll need to pack — you’ll need more room for bulky sweaters than you will for skimpy bikinis.

Some folks who tend to overpack may lean towards larger bags, but if you do, López recommends ensuring it’s no larger than a carry-on suitcase . “This way, you can use it when traveling by plane,” she says. “A standard carry-on is 22–24 inches long, 14–16 inches wide, and 9–11 inches high.”

Can a weekender bag be used as your personal item on a flight?

Yes, it can, depending on the dimensions of your bag, says López. You’ll first want to confirm the exact dimensions of your bag and then double-check the allotted dimensions and weight considered personal by the airline you’re flying. A good rule of thumb is to keep it 18 inches long, 14 inches wide, and 8 inches high or lower. Dimensions aside, it’ll need to fit underneath the seat in front of you, which is where material comes into play. “The softer and less structured the bag, the more likely it’ll be able to fit,” says Miranda. López says you might still get away with taking a structured leather or canvas bag, but it might not fit as easily (and you don’t want to risk permanently changing its shape).

How do you pack a weekender bag?

Just like packing your roller luggage can constitute a game of Tetris, so can packing your weekender bag. Given that weekender bags are less structured than hard luggage, you’ll want to be extra careful about the order in which you pack things — not just for accessibility purposes, but to keep your things protected from getting squished or crushed, too. “If your weekend bag is the only bag you’re bringing, the best way to start is by adding one or two pairs of shoes [your heaviest items] on the bottom, ” says Miranda. “Next, add the two or three outfits you’ll need, followed by essential toiletries on top. If you’re using it as a personal item on your flight, I suggest packing everything you’ll need easy access to while traveling — a book, snacks, laptop, etc.”

Jenna Igneri is a freelance writer who has been working in fashion and beauty media for over a decade. For this story, she compiled insights from InStyle in-house testers and read through online reviews to narrow down our top picks. She also tapped the below accessories experts for further insights.

• Audree Kate López is a fashion stylist.
• Neerja Jindal is an accessories design, material, and manufacturing consultant.
• Desiree Miranda is a personal stylist and Miranda New York founder.
• Elizabeth Money is the Senior Vice President of Brand and Creative at BÉIS .

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Every product is independently selected by (obsessive) editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.

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The 10 Very Best Weekend Bags

Duffels, mini-suitcases, and backpacks for a quick weekend jaunt..

Jump to section

Best weekend bag overall.

• Best for light packers
• Best for heavy packers
• Best backpack
• Best garment duffel

I am convinced that weekend getaways are the secret to a happy life. And I’m also convinced that a good bag can make it much easier to embark on those quick trips out of the city as often as possible, whether you’re driving or flying or taking the train upstate.

The best weekend bags will fit your essentials (from toiletries to underwear) but still be lightweight, compact, and durable. They will also — most important — be easy to carry (with sleeves for luggage or straps that don’t need to be adjusted every ten minutes), somewhat waterproof, and easy to keep organized with efficient pockets, compartments, and zips. To find the best options, my fellow Strategist writer Rachael Griffiths and I interviewed 15 travel experts about their favorites, then tested those recommendations out for ourselves. While you’re here, I’ve also written about the best carry-on luggage and personal-item bags for flying.

What we’re looking for

You’re going to be toting your weekend bag to and from your destination — and sometimes you might be carrying it around with you on your last day. A weather-resistant bag could be a smart choice, whereas for more unpredictable travel like camping , a ripstop fabric will make sure that any damage stays contained. All the options below should withstand a little rain.

Packing one pair of  jeans  for a whole trip or multiple outfit changes per day is a personal choice, but you should know your tendencies before selecting a bag. Below, I’ve noted the volume of each bag, which ranges from 25 to 60 liters, so there’s a size for everyone from  minimalists  to shameless overpackers.

Since most of these bags are not on wheels — meaning you’ll be lugging them around on your  shoulder  or  back  most of the time — their unfilled weight is an important consideration.

Method of carry

Sometimes a  backpack  is the most comfortable way to carry your belongings; other times, a  cross-body  strap makes more sense. Many of our picks have multiple carry options (and some are removable), so you’ll be sure to find a bag that won’t weigh you down even when it’s filled to bursting.

Materials: Recycled polyester ripstop with weather-resistant TPU-film laminate | Capacity: 40 liters | Weight: 2.1 pounds | Method of carry: Top handles, backpack straps, and sling strap

Thanks to its durability, impressive capacity, and multiple methods of carry (it can be used as a duffel or backpack), the Patagonia Black Hole has become a go-to for myself and multiple fellow Strategist staffers. True to its name, the bag fits a lot of stuff, and it packs down easily for storage when not in use. Pruzan Running co-founder Lexy Copithorne told us that inside her duffel there’s more than enough space to pack for a weekend away. In fact, she can actually pack everything she needs for a two-week trip. “That includes two sweaters, several fitted tanks and running sets, two pairs of sneakers, boots, a few swimsuits, and my toiletry bag,” she says.

You may recall that past versions of Patagonia’s Black Hole duffels and backpacks featured an instantly recognizable glossy exterior fabric that could be wiped down easily. Patagonia recently replaced this fabric with a recycled ripstop polyester webbing that it says is just as waterproof and durable — I’m in the process of testing one of these newer bags and will report back with my findings, but so far so good.

Best (less expensive) weekend bag

Materials: High-density cotton canvas | Capacity: 43 liters | Weight: 2.45 pounds| Method of carry: Top handles, detachable shoulder strap

As far as budget weekender options go, S-Zone duffel is up there with the best. It has a sturdy canvas exterior with a soft nylon interior that’s water-resistant and easy to wipe clean. It has plenty of compartments for bulky bits like shoes or slimmer stuff like an iPad, and you can carry it three different ways, in case your shoulder or back gets achey on a particularly long journey. Although it has a whopping 43-liter capacity, it only weighs two and a half pounds, making it “roomy, lightweight, and comfortable to carry” according to Phil Dengler, co-founder of travel journal The Vacationer . Dengler’s been traveling with the same S-Zone duffel for over eight years now, which is a strong endorsement.

Best weekend bag for light packers

Materials: Nylon | Capacity: 25 liters | Weight: 2.6 pounds| Method of carry: Shoulder strap, removable messenger strap

The separate shoe compartment in this bag is precisely the type of efficient organization that Griffiths looks for in a weekender. (“Who wants boots or sneakers rubbing up against freshly washed clothes?” she asks.) Its praise was echoed by travel journalist Maggie Espinosa , who’s used the duffel for over eight years as both a carry-on and weekend bag. With a capacity of 25 liters, it’s best for light packers, but Espinosa did once manage to squeeze a pottery planter from Oaxaca inside one of the bag’s abundant compartments. Another handy design feature, says travel writer and founder of WanderWomenRetreats Alexandra Baackes, is the fully unzipping side pocket, which allows the bag to slot over the handle of a carry-on. “The small carry-on goes in the overhead, and the Lo & Sons goes at my feet with all in-air essentials, from laptop to lavender pulse point,” she says.

Best (less-expensive) weekend bag for light packers

Materials: Polyester | Capacity: 25 liters | Weight: 2 pounds| Method of carry: Shoulder strap, removable messenger strap

Priced more affordably, Calpak’s Luka shoulder bag also features a shoe compartment as well as useful external pockets that are big enough for a small water bottle or book. The bag’s rectangular shape is designed to slide snugly into baggage sizers, which makes it a great choice if you’re flying personal-item-only on a budget airline. Among travelers in the know, it’s “popular for good reason,” says travel creator  Jessica Ufuoma . “It’s very roomy, and it just works.”

Best weekend bag for heavy packers

Materials: Water-resistant nylon | Capacity: 139 liters | Weight: 3.5 pounds | Method of carry: Padded strap and handles

Sometimes you just need a big ol’ bag that can hold a ton of stuff. But the bigger the bag, often, the flimsier it is. This L.L. Bean duffle is durable and an excellent price for what it is. Deputy editor Alexis Swerdloff was looking for something that she could use to pack up her entire family — herself, her husband, and two small kids — since putting everyone’s clothes in separate bags meant, well, that there were suddenly a lot of bags, and weekend trips were getting unwieldy. She landed on this L.L. Bean X-Large duffle and she thinks it’s the best thing she bought all year. “It fits so much stuff,” she says. For one weekend trip, not only was she able to pack in everyone’s bulky winter clothes, but she also stuffed in about two dozen diapers, a Tonie Box and its charger, and a noise machine . While the bag’s hefty-feeling, “it also can be folded down into basically nothing,” she says. “I store it in an oversize tote.” She’s also taken it on longer trips. On a recent flight to Colorado, she noticed not one but two other families with two kids who had the same bag. When she reported this to the rest of the team, fellow editors Maxine Builder and Simone Kitchens said they both still use the same enormous Adventure Duffles they’ve had since high school. It can be monogrammed, which could make it a nice wedding or new-baby gift.

Best weekend backpack

Materials: Nylon | Capacity: 24.5 liters (27.5 liters when expanded) | Weight: 2.6 pounds | Method of carry: Backpack straps and top handles

Griffiths likes this bag because it counts as a personal item on most European airlines and stows easily beneath the seat in front of her on planes and trains. But it’s still pretty roomy: “On a recent trip to Paris, I packed three days’ worth of clothes and toiletries without even having to expand it,” she says. “Thanks to the padded straps, it was hours and hours before I got an ache in my shoulder from traipsing around galleries.” The bag also has a lengthy top strap so you can carry it like a duffel to give your shoulders a break. Her favorite feature, though, is the padded laptop pocket at the back — which means you don’t have to fish through your bag for your electronics at security. “And when I’m having a proper break — i.e., not traveling with my laptop — I put my book and journal in there, so I can slide them out without fuss,” she adds.

Best weekend tote bag

Materials: Nylon | Capacity: 30 liters | Weight: 11 ounces | Method of carry: Shoulder strap

I am constantly influencing friends to buy this bag, which is almost weightless yet extremely durable and holds a lot of stuff. Puffy shoulder straps make it much comfier than your average freebie tote, and generous external pockets are handy for stashing a book or water bottle. Because it is made from very thin fabric, this bag’s weight and bulkiness really depends on how much stuff you pack inside. I can fit three or four packing cubes full of clothes into it, alongside books, a laptop, and other small essentials. On its own, the bag is perfect for weekend or weeklong trips. On longer vacations, I have also slipped it over the handle of a Samsonite carry-on suitcase using the attached luggage sleeve.

Best expandable weekend tote bag

Materials: Nylon and leather | Capacity: 30 liters unexpanded, 50 liters expanded | Weight: 1.6 pounds | Method of carry: Shoulder strap, removable messenger strap

Many Strategist staffers stand by Longchamp’s Le Pliage range of totes for both travel and work . New York  Magazine deputy editor Alexis Swerdloff says hers has withstood nearly two decades of wear and tear, and Strategist editor Maxine Builder has had one for 15 years. These bags are so durable because they’re made of a waterproof nylon material and have sturdy leather straps. This expandable version is ideal for travel because it can accommodate any souvenirs if needed but otherwise remains compact and rather classy-looking.

Best weekend bag with interior organization

Materials: Neoprene | Capacity: 18 liters | Weight: 2.8 pounds | Method of carry: Shoulder strap, removable messenger strap

Dagne Dover’s Landon bag is a great personal item for long-haul trips and also ideal as a weekender. Going ’s travel spokesperson, Katy Nastro, uses hers for quick overnights. She likes that it has “all the pockets built in, so I can be very organized.” The pockets also make this bag ideal for trips where you’re bringing a laptop and stationery. The duffel comes in five sizes, but I’ve found that medium is the best option for most short trips, especially if you know you’ll be flying on budget carriers with strict rules. The capacity isn’t huge, but the flexible neoprene fabric allows for overpacking.

Best weekend bag for weddings and events

Materials: Water-resistant polyester | Capacity: 45 liters | Weight: 2.3 pounds | Method of carry: Shoulder strap, removable messenger strap

Sometimes, traveling with a portable steamer just isn’t an option. In those instances, a garment bag can help keep delicate items of clothing uncreased. Griffiths says Halfday’s clever garment duffel is particularly ideal for keeping satiny dresses and tops in perfect condition in transit. As she explains in her review , the bag lays flat, with two circular flaps sewn to the bottom end that form the oblong ends of the duffel once it’s zipped up. Inside the garment bag, there’s a Velcro hanger loop, so you can loop your hangers inside, and then just  hang up the whole bag  when you arrive.There’s also room for three or four additional outfits to be folded up inside. I think this bag is ideal for taking to destination weddings, for business travel, or for any other trips when you need to look your best.

Some other weekend bags we’ve written about

Our experts

• Chyla Anderson, founder of Outdoorism • Alexandra Baackes, travel blogger and founder of WanderWomenRetreats • Anna Bond, co-founder of Rifle Paper Co. • Sanibel Chai, writer • Louis Cheslaw , former Strategist associate editor • Lexy Copithorne , co-founder of Pruzan Running • Phil Dengler, co-founder of travel journal The Vacationer • Jessie Hyman , co-founder of Pruzan Running • Maggie Espinosa , travel journalist • Robert Khederian, a former Curbed staffer and current Compass broker • Simone Kitchens , Strategist senior editor • Nikko Lencek-Inagaki , director of design and merchandising at Freemans Sporting Club • Gabriella Mancha , hair and makeup artist • Dymphe Mensink, who runs the blog Dymabroad • Katy Nastro, Going ’s travel spokesperson • Kiki Reginato, New York Magazine’s senior director of e-commerce operations • Rebecca Selkirk , travel writer • Alexis Swerdloff , New York deputy editor

Additional reporting by Rachael Griffiths.

The Strategist  is designed to surface the most useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Some of our latest conquests include the best  acne treatments ,  rolling luggage ,  pillows for side sleepers ,  natural anxiety remedies , and  bath towels . We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.

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14 best weekender bags for every type of traveler in 2023

Between balancing a full-time job and family duties, a quick weekend getaway is usually easier to pencil into a busy schedule than a long vacation. Embarking on short trips throughout the year is a great way to take a break from the monotony of your daily routine, but how effectively you pack may determine just how stress-free your trip is. A weekender bag, which includes zippered duffels, travel backpacks and large multi-compartment bags , can be an easy way to keep your travel essentials in one place.

To help you choose the best one for your getaway, we asked travel experts how they shop for weekender bags and rounded up some of their favorite options along with Select staff picks.

SKIP AHEAD Best weekender bags of 2023 | What is a weekender bag and what is it used for? | How to shop for a weekender bag

Our top picks

• Editor’s pick : Lo & Sons The Catalina Deluxe
• Best affordable weekender : Adidas Defender 4 Medium Duffel Bag
• Best multi-purpose weekender : Halfday The Garment Duffel
• Best expandable weekender : Longchamp Le Pliage Expandable Travel Bag
• Best tote : L.L.Bean Boat and Tote Zip-Top

How we picked the best weekender bags

A weekender bag is designed for short trips, typically taking place over a few days or a weekend. Depending on their overall dimensions, you might want to use them as a carry-on or personal item for a flight. When shopping for a quality weekender bag, experts told us to consider the following factors:

• Size : Stick to bags with a capacity of at least 30 liters so they can comfortably fit your travel essentials, according to experts we spoke to. Bags that hold upwards of 40-50 liters may hold more, but keep in mind they’ll be harder to lug around.
• Material : Weekenders come in many different materials including canvas, recycled polyester, nylon and leather. Water-resistant materials like nylon and neoprene are best since they provide some peace of mind when traveling outdoors, according to our experts.
• Straps, comfort and versatility : Look for bags with strong, padded straps that aren’t going to give way when you’re carrying a heavier load. Some options transform into travel backpacks or crossbody bags, which makes it easier to carry heavier items.
• Price : You can expect to spend between $100 to $300 on a quality weekender bag. However, “beyond that point, you’ll be paying a premium for brand recognition or aesthetic features rather than significant improvements in durability or functionality,” says travel blogger Lauren Juliff .
• Organizational features : Consider bags with interior pockets that will keep small items in one place and exterior pockets to keep essentials like your phone and passport in-reach. You should also look for a built-in laptop sleeve or compartment to keep your tech safe and scratch-free.

Shopping 5 best packing cubes for travel

Best weekender bags of 2023.

We compiled expert-recommended options and Select staff favorites to help give you an idea of the best weekender bags for your personal travel preference.

Best weekender bag overall: Lo & Sons

Lo & sons the catalina deluxe.

The Catalina Deluxe from Lo & Sons is a frontrunner for durability, space and style. I frequently take quick weekend trips to visit family, and I can always rely on this weekender to store everything I need. It fits comfortably underneath my seat on flights or train rides, and I love that it has a separate, zippered bottom compartment to help keep my shoes and dirty clothes isolated from the rest of my packed items. It comes in various sizes, colors and fabrics, including soft and sturdy canvas, and water-resistant and eco-friendly recycled polyester. It also includes an adjustable messenger strap with removable padding, as well as a backend pass-through sleeve so it can fit comfortably on top of a suitcase.

Capacity : 40 liters (small); 49 liters (large) | Material : Canvas; 600D recycled polyester | Water-resistant : Yes (recycled polyester) | Laptop compartment : No

Lo & Sons The Catalina Deluxe

Best multi-purpose weekender bag: halfday, halfday the garment duffel.

This duffel comes recommended by Select’s associate updates editor Zoe Malin and editor James Ellis due to its durability and size. “I like that it's small enough to not make a fuss on the plane, but I can still pack at least one suit if I wanted,” Ellis says. It weighs a little over 2 pounds and has a water-resistant exterior that’s designed to withstand unpredictable weather. The duffel comes with two interior shoe pockets that fit a size-13 shoe in each, and it converts into a hanging garment compartment that holds a suit, tux or multiple dress shirts, according to the brand. It also includes a polyester handle and shoulder strap, as well five plastic feet on the bottom to keep it from touching the ground.

Capacity : 45 liters | Material : Oxford; Taslan polyester lining | Water-resistant : Yes | Laptop compartment : No

Best weekender bag with removable compartment: Beis

Beis the convertible weekender.

“This bag changed my life — it’s the only weekender I can truly rely on for trips, and it sparks joy when I use it,” Malin says. She loves that it comes with a bottom compartment to keep shoes separate: “I always travel with my running sneakers, and having that dedicated compartment for them keeps their dirty soles away from my clean clothes.” The compartment is also removable if you’re a light packer, so you can convert it to a minimalist tote. Malin also likes the many interior pockets that can help safely store away her phone, wallet, passport and other essentials while traveling, as well as the removable padded laptop sleeve to save time while going through TSA. The brand also offers a mini version , which is small enough to use as a purse or work tote when you remove the bottom compartment.

Capacity : 49 liters | Material : Polyester; vegan leather trim | Water-resistant : Yes (lining) | Laptop compartment : Yes

Best affordable weekender bag: Adidas

Adidas defender 4 medium duffel bag.

In addition to the Lo & Sons option, my partner and I use this affordable duffel from Adidas for quick overnight stays or to haul exercise clothes and fitness equipment to the gym. It doesn’t have the bells and whistles of higher-end bags, just a spacious, zip-top interior with two zippered side pockets that allow me to keep track of (and store away) smaller items like earbuds , wallets and keys. It also has a removable shoulder strap, so you can use it as both a true duffel with handles or a crossbody bag to haul heavier items.

Capacity : N/A (Dimensions: 13 inches long, 12 inches high, 24.75 inches wide) | Material : Polyester | Water-resistant : Yes | Laptop compartment : No

Best high-end weekender bag: ShortyLove

Shortylove friday weekender travel bag.

Editorial director Lauren Swanson owns this weekender in Army Green and says that “it's surprisingly spacious and lightweight.” Weighing just under 2 pounds, the bag is made from water-resistant nylon twill and has a flat, structured bottom that lets it stand upright when placed on the floor. It also has internal padding so it maintains its structure when it’s not in use, according to the brand. It comes with multiple interior slip pockets to hold your phone, keys and wallet, as well as a deep, zippered exterior pocket.

Capacity : 60 liters | Material : Nylon twill | Water-resistant : Yes | Laptop compartment : No

Best convertible weekender bag: Baboon to the Moon

​​baboon to the moon go-bag.

If you can’t decide between a traditional weekender bag and a travel backpack, Baboon to the Moon’s water-resistant Go-Bag solves that issue — it has a handle so you can use it as a duffel, and adjustable shoulder straps to easily convert it into a backpack. It’s also a favorite of NBC Page Mihkaila Archer: “I’ve been telling everyone I possibly can about Baboon to the Moon — it's not super traditional luggage, but I love its wide array of unique colors and bag sizes for any type of trip.” The Go-Bag is available in 12 vibrant colors and comes in three sizes: mini (32-liter capacity), small (40-liter capacity) and big (60-liter capacity). It also comes with an interior mesh compartment and two stash pockets for your phone, passport and wallet.

Capacity : 32 liters, 40 liters and 60 liters | Material : Proprietary OM Stardust Ballistic shell | Water-resistant : Yes | Laptop compartment : No

Best sustainable weekender bag: Everlane

Everlane the renew transit weekender.

If you’re looking for an environmentally-friendly bag that’s both durable and water-resistant, Everlane’s ReNew Transit Weekender, which is highly rated with a 4.7-star average rating from over 100 reviews on the brand’s website, is made from 100% recycled polyester that comes from renewed plastic bottles. It includes an adjustable shoulder strap, a padded interior laptop sleeve, two water bottle holders and a zip pocket on the outside. It’s available in five colors, too.

Capacity : 25 liters | Material : Recycled polyester | Water-resistant : Yes | Laptop compartment : Yes

Best carry-on weekender bag: Calpak

Calpak stevyn duffel.

This duffel bag from Calpak, which is one of our favorite AAPI-owned businesses , is great for weekend getaways, trips to the gym or last-minute flights. It comes with a large bottom compartment for shoes or any clothes you want to keep separated, as well as interior pockets to keep smaller items like your wallet, cards and keys, organized. It has a trolley sleeve on the back side to securely attach it to your luggage, plus you can remove the shoulder strap to carry it from its handles too. It’s available in one size with 11 colors and patterns.

Capacity : 47 liters | Material : Polyester | Water-resistant : No | Laptop compartment : No

Best expandable weekender bag: Longchamp

Longchamp le pliage expandable travel bag.

A favorite of Select writer Barbara Booth for its size, versatility and sleek design, the Longchamp Le Pliage has a zipper in the middle that allows the water-resistant bag to expand in size, so she can use it for travel or at the beach or pool. For extra portability, the Le Pliage bag folds down flat and fastens with a buttoned flap, so you can easily store it in your suitcase when you travel. Additionally, it has a spacious main interior, a removable crossbody strap and plenty of interior pockets.

Capacity : 30 liters; 50 liters (when expanded) | Material : Nylon; leather trim | Water-resistant : Yes | Laptop compartment : No

Best weekender tote: L.L.Bean

L.l.bean boat and tote zip-top.

If you prefer a one-shoulder tote bag to store your weekend trip essentials, this option from L.L.Bean comes in small, medium, large and extra-large sizes. Made from heavy-duty cotton canvas, the tote has a reinforced bottom and double-stitched seams, which makes it suitable to carry heavier items like shoes, laptops and other travel accessories (in fact, the handles are sturdy enough to hold up to 500 pounds, according to the brand). Select editor Lindsay Schneider recommends this zip-top option for traveling thanks to its long durable handles and sturdy structure.

Capacity : 8 liters, 17 liters, 35 liters and 56 liters | Material : Cotton canvas | Water-resistant : No | Laptop compartment : No

Best backpack weekender: Osprey

Osprey arcane xl 22l daypack.

The Osprey Arcane XL Daypack comes recommended by Juliff. “At 30 liters, it’s the perfect size for a couple of nights away, and because it’s a backpack rather than a duffel, it’s easy and comfortable to carry when walking,” she says. It has a laptop compartment that fits a 15-inch laptop, and the external zip pocket is great for keeping small essentials like a passport, credit cards and phone within easy reach. Osprey also offers an “all mighty guarantee,” which means the brand will repair or replace any of its luggage if it gets damaged, for any reason, free of charge. “I’ve successfully taken them up on this offer in the past and had a seven-year-old backpack replaced after an airline tore a hole in it,” Juliff says.

Capacity : 30 liters | Material : 500D recycled polyester | Water-resistant : Yes | Laptop compartment : Yes

Best lightweight weekender bag: Dagne Dover

Dagne dover landon carryall bag.

Select’s managing editor Leah Ginsberg says she’s “a devotee” of the Landon Carryall Bag from Dagne Dover. It’s made from 100% premium neoprene, a lightweight, water-resistant fabric that’s insulating, shock-absorbent and flexible, according to the brand. “It has so many useful pockets and it's lightweight because of the material,” says Ginsberg, who has the small version of this bag and typically uses it as a purse. “I also always get compliments because it looks cool.” The bag is available in five sizes ranging from extra-small to extra-large. The medium size has an interior sleeve that can fit a 13-inch laptop, while the large and extra-large sizes can fit a 16-inch laptop.

Capacity : 5 liters, 11 liters, 18 liters, 29 liters, 35 liters | Material : Neoprene | Water-resistant : Yes | Laptop compartment : Yes (medium, large and extra-large sizes)

Best overnight weekender bag: Vera Bradley

Vera bradley large travel duffel.

If you’re planning on embarking on an overnight trip, Vera Bradley’s 100% cotton duffle bag has a zip pocket and three slip pockets on the exterior, as well as three additional interior mesh pockets to keep smaller items organized. You can use it as a true duffel bag using its drop handles, or use the detachable shoulder strap to haul heavier items. (It comes with a shoulder pad to make it more comfortable, too.) The spacious, soft weekender is high quality and lasts for years, according to Schneider.

Capacity : 50 liters | Material : Recycled cotton | Water-resistant : No | Laptop compartment : No

Best personalizable weekender bag: Paravel

Paravel weekender.

“The Paravel Weekender is perfect for true weekend getaways — its stylish design and high-quality construction make it a standout choice,” says Nadine Sykora, blogger and host of YouTube travel channel Hey Nadine . The weekender fits up to two days-worth of clothes and a 15-inch laptop (though it doesn’t have a dedicated laptop sleeve), according to the brand. It also comes with a removable and adjustable strap, an interior zip pocket and zip-top closure that makes it easy to unload and reload your essentials. For an additional fee, you can personalize the bag with an embroidered or hand-painted monogram or emoji.

Capacity : 28 liters | Material : Eco-friendly canvas and recycled vegan leather | Water-resistant : No | Laptop compartment : No

Shopping 5 best luggage tags for travel

What is a weekender bag and what is it used for.

Sized in between a backpack and a carry-on suitcase , a weekender is big enough to hold clothes, toiletries, shoes and other essentials. Many tend to have soft sides, zippers and multiple compartments that give you the convenience and accessibility of a backpack with the capacity of a smaller suitcase sans the bulkiness.

“For getaways lasting a night or two, the main advantage of a weekender bag is the ease at which you can pack and unpack,” Juliff says. “You don’t have to squeeze everything through the narrow entrance of a backpack when packing, and when unpacking, it’s far easier to see where everything is in a duffel.”

Practicality aside, weekender bags are a stylish alternative to basic luggage. They come in a variety of colors and materials, including nylon, faux leather, canvas and polyester. Some weekenders can even “fold flat after unpacking, so you can store them out of sight,” Juliff says. Some also sport customizable features like monograms and patterns to fit your personal style.

“I'm definitely somebody who has weekenders that go from a traditional soft duffel in a leather to a canvas duffel to larger totes that stand up on their own,” says Yolanda Edwards, founder of travel magazine Yolo Journal . She says she uses weekender bags for short trips to her house in upstate New York, but she also takes them along on planes as a personal item and in cars during road trips.

How to shop for a weekender bag

Not all weekender bags serve the same function: Your specific needs and type of travel will determine the right bag for you.

“The first thing you want to do is determine what your weekend will look like,” Sykora says. “If you're a minimalist and prefer packing light, a weekender bag can certainly work for longer trips — just make sure it's comfortable to carry, as most weekender bags aren't designed for extended periods of use.”

When shopping, our experts recommended considering the size and material of your weekender, your comfort level while using one and built-in organizational features like pockets and laptop sleeves.

The right size weekender

The size of your weekender will determine what you can (and can’t) take. Some bags are more compact, so you can easily carry it around, while roomier, pocket-filled options offer more space for storing your travel essentials.

Juliff recommends a minimum capacity of 30 liters for a weekender bag. “This should be sufficient to carry clothing, toiletries and other essentials for a short trip,” she says. Plus, “30 liters is typically well within most airlines' carry-on luggage requirements, allowing you to easily stow your bag under the seat when traveling internationally.”

If you’re an experienced traveler, a larger weekender bag may still work well for longer trips. “I traveled continuously for two years with a single 40-liter backpack and didn’t feel as though the amount of space was limiting — anything less than 40 liters and I would have struggled, though,” Juliff says. And though a smaller option may not hold all of your essentials, opting for a bigger weekender can still be limiting: “Typically, weekenders aren’t rolling bags, so you’ll need to physically carry them around,” which can result in some serious heavy lifting if you’re a chronic overpacker, according Sykora. “For most people, I would recommend a 50-liter or 60-liter suitcase or backpack for trips lasting longer than a week,” Juliff says.

Comfort and versatility

“Consider your destination, travel distance and transportation methods — like car versus public transportation — when determining the size and comfort [of your bag],” Sykora says. Padded, removable and adjustable straps are important when it comes to comfort, especially if the bag functions as both a duffel and a backpack. If you’re planning a walking-heavy trip , some weekenders can transform into crossbody bags or travel backpacks that won’t put too much pressure on one shoulder. Carrying a weekender bag with a shoulder strap isn’t ideal for long-haul trips, according to Sykora.

Shopping 11 top-rated travel pillows to consider

While different materials will determine how your weekender bag looks, you’ll want to avoid materials that won’t hold up in certain travel conditions. If you're an outdoorsman or if you expect unpredictable weather, “you should not be getting a zippered duffel that's [made of] canvas — which is usually heavier — or any with leather details,” Edwards says. She suggested opting for a lightweight, water-resistant nylon, instead.

“Water-resistance for both the fabric and the zippers is a valuable feature if you plan on traveling in all seasons, and will keep your belongings dry in anything that isn’t a torrential downpour,” Juliff says.

Organizational features

While most weekender bags have an open, spacious interior with a few pockets to store miscellaneous items, some offer more functional compartments like laptop sleeves, separate shoe compartments and easily accessible slots for a phone, e-reader or other essentials that you need to keep in reach.

You can expect to spend anywhere between $100 to $300 for a quality weekender bag, depending on materials, brand and design, according to Juliff. “There is a noticeable difference between a $50 bag and a $400 bag in terms of quality and materials, you can both see and feel it,” Sykora says.

Higher-end bags usually come with more durable straps that can withstand wear and tear, and they may utilize premium materials such as full-grain leather or high-quality canvas, according to our experts. Bags priced on the lower-end (typically less than $100) might use more affordable materials like polyester or lower-grade leather, Juliff says. If you don’t travel often, “a more affordable option may suffice, but I always like investing in a long-lasting bag that’ll last me many years,” Sykora says.

Meet our experts

At Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure that all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and with no undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.

• Lauren Juliff is a travel blogger who runs the site Never Ending Footsteps .
• Nadine Sykora is a blogger and host of YouTube travel channel Hey Nadine .
• Yolanda Edwards is the founder of travel magazine Yolo Journal .

Why trust Select?

Mili Godio is an editor at Select and has written various travel roundups including the best travel pillows and the best carry-ons . For this article, she interviewed three travel bloggers and writers about how to shop for weekender bags and researched dozens of weekenders on the market to compile a list of the best ones to consider.

Catch up on Select's in-depth coverage of personal finance , tech and tools , wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook , Instagram and Twitter to stay up to date.

Mili Godio is an updates editor for Select on NBC News.

Advertiser Disclosure

Many of the credit card offers that appear on this site are from credit card companies from which we receive financial compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). However, the credit card information that we publish has been written and evaluated by experts who know these products inside out. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse. This site does not include all credit card companies or all available credit card offers that are on the market.  See our advertising policy here where we list advertisers that we work with, and how we make money. You can also review our  credit card rating methodology .

The 16 Best Travel Weekender Bags for Men & Women [2023]

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

788 Published Articles

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

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

35 Published Articles 3211 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 47 U.S. States Visited: 28

Table of Contents

Things to consider with weekender bags, 8 best weekender bags for women, 8 best weekender bags for men, final thoughts.

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

Weekender bags are ultimately designed for short trips. Because of this, it is vital that your weekender bag is large enough to store everything you need for a few days, but also small enough to be used as carry-on luggage .

With so many to choose from, there is no need to compromise on style when fulfilling the functional requirement of your weekend bag, and there are a ton of great looking weekend bags to enhance your style.

Make your weekender bag the piece of luggage you are always proud to hang off your arm, as well as being suitable for all your short trip needs.

Size and Capacity

Your weekender bag needs to be compact enough for you to use as carry-on luggage but also needs to be spacious enough to hold everything you need for your trip. The internal dimensions of the most popular weekender bags can differ, so it’s important that you choose a bag that fulfills your needs.

Most weekend bags offer a large main compartment, and additional storage in the form of internal pockets, external pouches, and even end compartments.

Bottom Line: Weekenders should fit comfortably in the trunk of your car or an overhead locker and should be lightweight and easy to carry.

You may not think the weight of your weekender is an issue, but the more lightweight the bag is to begin with, the more you can carry with you. Bags made from nylon and other modern synthetic materials tend to weigh less than their cotton or canvas counterparts , so keep this in mind before falling in love with a heavy retro-style bag.

While the weight of your bag is important, don’t be tempted to compromise on the construction of your new bag either. Finding a weekender bag that is both lightweight and durable is the perfect blend of form and function for the modern-day traveler.

Carry Options

Even if your chosen bag has carry handles, you may also want the versatility of a shoulder strap so you can easily swap and be hands-free while you’re on the go. The shoulder strap may be permanently attached, or it may be detachable. Either way, it could still be useful. You should also look at whether or not the strap is adjustable as different lengths suit different folks.

Hot Tip: If you are planning on using your weekender bag as an addition to a wheeled suitcase , the handles are a bonus as they can slide over the suitcase handle, making it easier for you to transport both at once.

When purchasing your weekender bag, you may wish to consider the handles and how well they suit your traveling needs. Some drop-down handles will be long enough to place over the shoulder, whereas other carry handles may be shorter and only suitable for carrying by hand.

If you’re planning on using the carry handles the majority of the time, then definitely look for ones that are rounded, or padded for a more comfortable carry.

Access, Pockets, and Organization

There are hundreds of different weekender bags out there to suit every style and budget. Each one will also offer varying amounts of compartments and pockets. Carefully consider what you need from your bag before you invest. Do you need to quickly access your travel documents, phone, and wallet from an easy access exterior pocket? Or, is a large main area for bulky items more important?

Bottom Line: Whether you need to keep your sports gear separate from your party outfit, or you are just looking to throw and go, there will always be a bag that has enough compartments. You just need to think about your style and your travel preference before buying.

Material and Durability

If you choose carefully, your weekender bag could be with you for many future adventures. For it to last a lifetime, the fabrics need to be sturdy enough to withstand the wear and tear of traveling. Look for durable materials like cotton, canvas, nylon, rubber, or synthetics, and don’t just be swayed by pretty patterns and trendy logos. The zippers, locks, and other fastenings should also be made of top-quality materials.

1. A Great-looking Bag That Will Take You Anywhere

Away Travel – The Everywhere Bag

Dimensions: 16.3 x 7.3 x 10.2 inches

This Away bag is available in a range of beautiful colors and is made from water-resistant fabrics, meaning it is extremely durable and can also be wiped clean both inside and out. Lightweight and good-looking, this bag has both carry handles and a detachable shoulder strap, giving you the option to switch between the 2.

The interior of this bag offers 6 pockets, a laptop pocket large enough for computers up to 15 inches, and a zippered umbrella pouch, giving you no excuse for not being organized on your next adventure. The compact size of this weekender means you can stow the bag under the seat on a flight  or easily set it in the trunk of your car.

There is also a hidden pocket to the exterior of this bag that is the perfect size for your cell phone and other valuable items that you need to keep close by.

This is the perfect weekender bag for anyone with a penchant for timeless classic design, and hard-wearing yet functional luggage.

What We Like

• Full wraparound zip for easy access

What We Don’t Like

• Quite heavy for a weekender bag

2. Beautifully Designed and Incredibly Functional

Jadyn b 22” women’s weekender duffel bag with shoe pocket.

Dimensions: 22 x 12 x 12 inches

This is the perfect duffel bag for those looking for a stylish yet practical bag for all of their weekend getaways . Available in a choice of 2 different designs, Geometric Gray or Gray Floral, this bag is made from durable, easy-to-clean fabric.

Inside the main storage section of the duffel, there are 3 separate mesh compartments as well as a large zippered pocket, meaning you can easily keep toiletries and makeup separate from your clothing. There is also a large side pocket that can house multiple pairs of shoes , so there’s no need to restrict the number of outfits you take on your next vacation, event, or excursion.

With 13-inch drop-down handles, this bag is ideal for you to carry on your shoulder, but there is also an adjustable shoulder strap included for extra comfort and shoulder support. There’s a front pocket allowing easy access to any small essential travel items needed on the journey itself.

At only 1.69 pounds in weight, this weekender duffel is a lightweight, functional bag for any short trips away.

• Shoe pocket for keeping items separate
• No padding on the handles

3. A High-quality Canvas Bag That Is Built To Last

Baosha hb-28 ladies canvas weekender with pu leather strap.

Dimensions: 16 x 12 x 8 inches

This is a stunning canvas holdall with a chic horizontal striped print, trimmed with tan PU leather handles, strap, and base. You can choose from a variety of different colors and designs to coordinate with your other luggage, making it an excellent choice for the stylish traveler.

The sleeve on the back of the bag allows you to slide the entire holdall over a standard rolling suitcase handle, or you can carry it on its own using either the carry handles or the detachable longer shoulder strap.

The smooth zipper technology opens to reveal a spacious interior with a central divider and a zipped pocket. There is an additional zipped pocket on the outside of the bag should you wish to access items separately from the main contents. The PU leather base gives the added benefit of a hard-wearing weekender suitable for placing down on any surface.

This high-quality canvas weekender bag is versatile enough to travel over a suitcase and be used as your main carry-on, and can also easily double up as a gym or beach bag .

• Luggage sleeve for attaching to a suitcase
• Doesn’t hold its structure when empty

4. A Classic Looking, High-quality Carry Bag

Ulgoo travel tote carry-on shoulder bag.

This is the ultimate multi-functional bag that offers plenty of class for travelers on the go. Made from soft canvas, this attractive shoulder bag comes in 8 designs (black, army green, black and white stripe, polka dot, square, grey, or leaf designs) all elegantly trimmed with tan PU leather carry handles and a detachable shoulder strap, with a classic buckle feature for adjusting the required length.

The base of the bag is not only also made from tan PU leather but has studs underneath, allowing you peace of mind that your bag is less likely to get grubby when traveling. The interior storage to the bag is 1 main large area with 2 side pockets for smaller items you wish to keep separate and close at hand. The carry handles will easily hang from a trolley hook or over the extending pull-along handle on your suitcase.

When traveling by plane, this compact weekender bag can easily be stowed under the seat in front of you, allowing you to keep your personal belongings with you throughout the flight.

• External and internal pockets to stay organized
• Shoulder strap is quite long

5. A Large Internal Area for Stashing Your Clothes on the Go

S-zone oversized canvas travel duffel bag.

Dimensions: 21.1 x 13.6 x 9.3 inches

This is an oversized duffel for whom a single large compartment is their main priority. Offering a fusion of individual styling and practicality, the bag is made from durable, anti-wrinkle canvas, and classically trimmed with PU leather.

There are 3 colors of canvas to choose from (black stripe, blue stripe, or zebra graphic design), and the holdall has 1 large main storage area for maximum capacity that can be used for bulky items without the inconvenience of dividers. There is also an internal zipped pocket that doesn’t dent interior dimensions but does offer a sneaky space for smaller items.

With easy-access zipped pockets on the exterior of the bag, you can keep your most valued and necessary possession close at hand. The PU leather trim is not only a striking design feature of this weekender bag but adds to the durability of the duffel.

Rounded and super-comfortable carry handles, heavy-duty zippers, and an adjustable-length shoulder strap make this an excellent choice for women on the go.

• Separate zippered shoe compartment at the bottom of the bag
• Materials make the bag quite heavy

6. Make a Statement With This Big, Bold Bag

Malirona canvas weekender bag.

Dimensions: 22 x 11.5 x 11.5 inches

Made from anti-wrinkle canvas and foldable for easy storage when not in use, this bag is available in 5 funky designs (black flower, flowers, noble girl, purple flower, and red flower). All of these design prints are unique to this range, and the funky designs will easily complement the rest of your luggage.

With a spacious interior main storage area, you can take up to 5 days’ worth of clothes, shoes, toiletries, and makeup all in 1 bag.

There are also a couple of internal pockets for your smaller essentials such as phone, keys, and travel wallets . This bag can be carried using the drop-down handles or the 47-inch detachable shoulder strap which can be adjusted to any length you desire. Also, the back of this bag has a suitcase handle strap, meaning it can also slide over an extended wheeled case handle for your convenience when traveling with extra luggage.

This is the perfect weekender for those who want to stand out from the crowd and made a bold fashion statement with their luggage.

• Fully collapsible to pack in your suitcase and for storing
• Main compartment opening is a little restrictive

7. The Best Bag for Business Travelers

Lily & drews carry on weekender overnight travel shoulder bag.

Dimensions: 15 x 12 x 7 inches

With timeless and elegant styling, this bag can be purchased in 2 colors (black or raspberry rose design) all of which are water-resistant fabric.

You can organize everything you need for your business trip by making use of the multiple pockets both inside and on the outside of this bag. This weekender bag includes a padded sleeve inside one of the interior compartments which are suitable for laptops up to 15.6 inches . The carry handles are comfortable for your travel, but if you prefer, there is a removable padded shoulder strap.

This 3-pound bag is made of stern stuff and will retain its shape even when empty. There is a suitcase handle sleeve to the back of this weekender, meaning you can slide it over a trolley handle should you be taking a suitcase on your travels with you.

This is a great bag for professionals that need to neatly and securely organize their belongings while on business trips.

• Padded compartment for up to a 15.6-inch laptop
• Zippers are not the most durable

8. Large Enough for the 2 of You

Ecosusi unisex large travel weekender bag.

Dimensions: 18.5 x 7.8 x 8.4 inches

With a unique square-based design, this bag can stand upright on its own, and its innovative looks make it stand out as a fashionable piece of luggage.

The water-repellent, wipe-clean, nylon fabric is durable and practical and available in 3 classic colors (red, beige, and black). At only 1.4 pounds, this weekender bag has double-top carry handles, an adjustable padded shoulder strap, and a suitcase sleeve to the back should you wish to slide it over a wheeled suitcase handle.

The luxurious elegance of this bag continues into the interior, which is fully lined with a rich brown material designed not to show any dirt or grubby stains. There is an additional pad inside the bag which is designed to protect your iPad or e-reader while you’re on the go.

This is a must-have travel bag for those who wish to blend classic styling with functionality whenever they travel.

• Stylish vegan leather trims
• Trolley sleeve is very tight

1. A Big-brand Bag for Bigger Adventures

Herschel novel duffle bag.

Dimensions: 11.75 x 20.5 x 11 inches

This weekender bag is designed with just the right amount of storage for short trips, and it even has a separate shoe pocket, so shoes are kept away from clean clothing. The 2-way waterproof zippers open to reveal a spacious main storage area with an internal sleeve.

The interior of the bag is beautifully lined with Herschel’s signature fabric liner , and the carry handles are reinforced for strength, durability, and comfort when carrying the bag by hand. There is also a detachable shoulder strap that is padded.

This bag is so versatile that it is perfect for weekend trips away or even the gym or sporting activities. With 21 different colors and prints to choose from in this range, there’s bound to be 1 that compliments your style. The compact sizing of this bag makes it suitable to use as your carry-on bag on airplane flights.

The ultimate weekender bag for those who demand high-quality products, this bag has classic styling, allowing it to be practical to use but always great looking when doing so.

• Spacious main compartment
• Handle buckles can squeak when walking

2. A Quality Canvas Bag With Plenty of Room for Everything

S-zone oversized canvas genuine leather trim travel duffel weekender bag .

Dimensions: 21.7 x 14.8 x 10.2 inches

Perfect for use as a carry-on bag for airplane journeys, as well as being perfectly suited to a weekend away or trips to the gym, this oversized canvas bag is available in 6 different colors (gray, khaki, dark gray, coffee, army green, or blue).

Made from soft and lightweight, waterproof, and tear-resistant canvas , the bag benefits from a genuine leather trim to give it a more upscale aesthetic. The zips and clips that keep the bag secure are made from solid zine-alloy and won’t rust easily, while the bag itself is roomy enough for you to pack everything you need for a few days away.

On the inside, there is a large single storage area but with a couple of zippered pockets to the side. The additional pockets make it easy for you to have quick and easy access to smaller essentials such as your wallet, phone, travel documents, and keys. This weekender bag helps keep your items more organized.

An oversized canvas duffel with a difference, this bag combines retro styling with modern-day durability.

• Soft and durable canvas material
• Zippers could be smoother

3. A Choice of 2 Beautiful Italian Travel Bags

Polare duffle full grain leather weekender travel bag.

Dimensions: 22.8 x 10.24 x 12.5 inches

This Italian-designed bag is practical and durable, while still being sophisticated and dignified in its appearance. Made from high-quality Italian cowhide full-grain leather with strong stitching , the bag has carry handles and shoulder straps to give you both carrying options when you are traveling.

The overall size and capacity of this weekender bag is ideal for any short getaways, be it city breaks or business trips. There are 2 colors to choose from in this range (dark brown and light brown), both of which are just under 6 pounds in weight.

The interior of the bag features a large storage area so you can keep all your clothes, shoes, and other essentials in 1 place. There is also a laptop-sized pouch to one side of the interior, meaning your laptop or iPad is neatly separated and protected while traveling.

This travel bag is designed for those who want to add a touch of elegance to their luggage.

• Comfortable carrying handles and shoulder strap
• Quite heavy for a duffel bag

4. The Perfect Weekend Bag for the Discerning Gentleman

Cenzo duffle vecchio brown leather weekender travel bag.

Dimensions: 11 x 10 x 21 inches

Handmade in Italy using beautiful full-grain calfskin leather, the rich deep colors start to look even better when they age. The overall finish of the leather is semi-gloss, which is ideal to prevent staining, and the high-quality brass hardware adds an even more upscale feel to this bag.

For easy access, the zippers open floor-to-floor and help make packing a dream and finding your items incredibly easy. The inside of the bag is also fully lined with a hard-wearing canvas which not only looks distinctively classic, but is also strong, durable, and easy to clean.

For your convenience, you can easily switch between the carry handles or the shoulder strap when traveling. The shoulder strap is removable and adjustable to suit different heights using the classic buckle fastening, and the soft leather is strong enough to keep your belongings safe and protected on the go.

A weekend bag designed with the discerning gentleman in mind, these weekender bags are imported from Florence, Italy, and are a real hit.

• Brass zippers and buckles
• Can smell unpleasant initially and may require airing out

5. Keep Your Shoes and Clothes Separate With This Clever Weekender

Marsbro water resistant sports gym travel weekender duffel bag.

Dimensions: 19.7 x 9.8 x 9.3 inches

With its casual styling and 6 different colors for you to choose from (black, grey, pink, Tiffany blue, black/blue, and black/rose) this bag has a classic, almost retro look and feel that is reminiscent of duffel bags of the 1970s.

The bag is made from water-resistant fabric, which will keep your gear safe and sound as well as be easy to clean. You have the option of using the bag as a handheld holdall using the dual carry handles or going completely hands-free with the adjustable and well-cushioned shoulder strap for a more relaxed carrying option.

There is also a separate shoe compartment built into the bag , meaning you can keep your dirty shoes away from clean clothing. The shoe compartment also has cleverly designed air holes to allow your shoes to receive ventilation while they are being stored for travel.

This practical and durable weekend duffel bag is a must-have for any man about to embark on a few days away. The perfect size for your airplane carry-on bag it also works just as well as a gym bag when you get back home.

• Wet pocket to keep dirty clothing or toiletries separate
• Shoulder strap is not detachable

6. A Duffel Back for Weekends Away

Canway 65l travel duffel bag.

Dimensions: 26.3 x 13.7 x 12.2 inches

Made from water-resistant 600D polyester fabric, this duffel bag comes in an array of muted and vibrant colors that will match any existing luggage selections.

The bag is made up of 1 main compartment for the bulk of your clothing and 6 other perfectly designed pockets, all of which will suit your varying travel needs. There’s a side shoe compartment that can be used to keep your shoes or dirty clothes separate from the rest, and the 2 air vents on this compartment will ensure nothing gets too smelly throughout your trip.

There is a side elastic pouch to keep items organized and separated and a front zipper compartment that provides easy access to your passport, phone, and other travel essentials .

Lightweight, durable, and incredibly well-made, this weekender bag is the ideal size to use as carry-on luggage. For your convenience, the bag can be carried using the carry handles or the comfortable, adjustable shoulder strap.

This is a sturdy, adaptable bit of luggage that will be just as useful on a weekend break as it would be in the gym, or as an extra bag for your vacation.

• Variety of stylish colors such as Aegean Blue and Brick Red
• No bottom cushioning to protect your gear

7. Upscale Leather Weekend Bag That Oozes Style and Quality

Leathario mens genuine leather overnight travel  duffel.

Dimensions: 19.69 x 9.45 x 12.2 inches

This 100% leather weekend travel bag is a stylish choice for the man about town. With multi-functional compartments, you can pack like a pro using the wide range of pockets and pouches this bag has to offer. Arrive at your destination with everything organized and easy to find, and keep your dirty clothing separate on your return journey.

Available in 2 different sizes and 2 different colors (black or brown), the naked leather has been oiled to ensure that it has a supersmooth finish while retaining a luxurious and natural look to the leather.

These bags offer a spacious main storage area for clothing, an inner laptop pocket, an internal iPad pocket, and 3 smaller interior pouches for travel essentials such as your mobile phone, wallet, and keys.

With smooth-opening zippers and high-end buckles and hardware, this really is a gorgeous piece of luggage. On the inside, the main compartment is incredibly spacious with additional features like magnetic buttons.

With more than enough room to comfortably carry enough of your clothing, shoes, and toiletries to last for a few days away, this is an excellent travel duffel that looks as good as it feels.

• Lots of internal pockets

8. A Duffel Bag That Can Be Carried Like a Backpack

Baosha hb-26 3-ways vintage canvas mens holdall backpack.

Dimensions: 18.9 x 11 x 10.2 inches

This clever weekender bag can be carried on your back like a backpack , held like a holdall, or slung across your body using the adjustable shoulder strap. The 3-way multi-purpose design sets this weekender apart from the other weekenders in this list. Versatile, practical, and incredibly comfortable, you can keep your belongings safe with you at all times.

Made from top-quality, hard-wearing canvas with PU leather straps and trim, this bag has a beautiful vintage, rustic look that belies its incredibly practical interior. With a choice of 4 smart colors (grey, coffee, blue, or black) on offer, you can find the perfect color combination to match your style. The timeless design means it will never go out of fashion.

With a generous internal capacity and a variety of separate compartments for packing and organizing, this bag is perfect for all kinds of short trips and excursions. It has the right dimensions to be used as an airplane carry-on , gym bag, sports bag, beach bag, and even on your daily commute.

• Multiple options for carrying
• Side access only to the main compartment

Whether you’re off on a short business trip, a glamorous city break, or a romantic countryside retreat, there will always be the perfect weekender bag just for you.

You can find stylish-looking bags that come complete with tons of useable space to provide you with versatile options for storage, organization, and carrying. Purchasing a durable weekender bag could be your best investment yet when it comes to heading out for your next short-term adventure.

Don’t stop at a weekender bag — check out these other related travel products you should consider to up your travel game!

• The Best Travel Duffel Bags on the Market
• The Best Travel Backpacks for Men & Women
• The Best Travel Dopp Kits For Men [Waterproof, Modern, Vintage & More]
• All Our Best Travel Product Reviews – In One Place

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a weekender bag.

As the name suggests, a weekender bag is a type of luggage that offers the perfect size and storage for a long weekend away.

Is a weekender bag considered a carry-on?

Each airline has specific rules and requirements about carry-on luggage. That said, a weekender bag should only be big enough to fit clothes and essentials for a weekend, and depending on the dimensions of your bag, it should be carry-on size.

How big is a weekender bag?

Weekender bags come in all shapes and sizes from tote style to duffel bags. While the dimensions may vary, as a rough rule of thumb most weekender bags will have a capacity of 20- to 40-liters.

Do I need a weekender bag?

Weekender bags are ultimately designed for short trips. Because of this, it is vital that your weekender bag is large enough to store everything you need for a few days, but also small enough to be used as carry-on luggage.

What's the difference between a weekender and duffle bag?

A weekender bag is another name for a duffel bag that is the perfect size for a weekend away. With so many to choose from, there is no need to compromise on style when fulfilling the functional requirement of your weekend bag, and there are a ton of great looking weekend bags to enhance your style.

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About Amar Hussain

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

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The 11 Best Weekender Bags for Women, According to Editors and Experts

In case you needed another reason to be pumped about your trip.

• How We Chose

The Best Weekender Bags

Meet the experts.

Fact: There's never a bad time to use up your hard-earned PTO by booking a quick trip. And unless you’re a chronic over-packer like me, you’ll need to find the best weekender travel bag for your next getaway. Weekender and overnight bags are basically like the smaller, cuter version of carry-on luggage and are perfect for carrying the essentials.

Traditionally, weekender bags were sold as a part of an entire luggage set . Now, however, they’re sold on their own, giving you the perfect excuse to have a little more fun. And with quick trips becoming increasingly popular, it’s about time for you to invest in one that can carry you through the seasons. 

And if we’re talking about the best weekender bags, there’s no one more equipped to turn to for advice than two founders of the best luggage brands on the market: Karla Gallardo , Co-Founder and CEO of Cuyana, and Shay Mitchell , founder of BÉIS. In addition to being incredibly stylish and sleek, the best-selling weekender bags they design are some of the most functional suitcases around. Read on for their tips and recommendations, in addition to weekender bags tested by the very well-traveled editorial team here at Marie Claire.

• Best Overall Weekender Bag:   BEIS The Weekender Bag  
• Best Roomy Weekender Bag: Longchamp Le Pliage 21-Inch Expandable Travel Bag
• Best Splurge-Worthy Weekender Bag: ROYCE Leather Weekender Bag
• Best Backpack Weekender Bag: Fjällräven Kånken 15-Inch Laptop Backpack

How We Chose the Best Weekender Bags

We know that there are plenty of weekender bags for you to choose from. Every weekender and travel bag on this has been specifically chosen by Marie Claire’s E-Commerce Editor, Julia Marzovila (a.k.a. me!), our Fashion Director Sara Holzman , Style Editor Emma Childs , and the rest of our editorial team. Each has been either tested for its size and durability or has been recommended from an expert we trust. These are the details we looked for when putting this list together:

• Functional Design Features: "Thoughtful function,” says Mitchell, is the most significant aspect to consider when shopping (and designing!) weekender bags. “A lot of times people are so focused on the way a bag looks that they can forget the very important consideration of how the bag is going to serve the person carrying it."
• A Good Look: Function is important, but aesthetics are, too. "I recommend looking for a bag that is spacious, durable, and beautiful," Gallardo shares. "It’s important to ensure that the bag you invest in has an aesthetic that you are confident will stand the test of time. I personally prefer a darker color, so it doesn't show any dirt—travel can get messy!"
• Organization: "You want something that is going to carry your essentials seamlessly from one destination to the next," explains Gallardo. "I suggest a piece that has multiple compartments, allowing you to maximize your organization when packing." Mitchell agrees with Gallardo, saying organizational ease is top of mind when she's designing weekender styles. “Most of us have similar things we need to carry with us—phones, wallets, cards, passports, water bottles—so when we design we always think of an organization that will accommodate all of the things people need while still being something they feel cute carrying." 
• High-Quality Materials: "You want to ensure your weekender bag is made of quality materials—especially zippers—that are built to last," advises Gallardo. Look for styles made of sturdy materials like nylon, leather, and polyester (ideally recycled), and bonus if the materials are water-resistant or waterproof, as that will help to extend the lifetime of your bag.

"Listen, I love all my babies equally, but The Weekender is my tried and true," Mitchell says about BEIS' best-selling, affordable weekender bag. "This bag looks badass, has amazing structure, maximizes space with creative organization, and is the most ideal size. We love to offer consumers compartments, pockets, and spaces that can be used for a variety of reasons…whatever they feel is best for keeping them organized on the go." Plus, it's super versatile. "I always use the bottom of The Weekender for my shoes, for example, but my mom uses it for her cosmetic and bathroom items, and my friend uses it for all her baby's stuff," she says. 

Pros: Plenty of compartments; Under $100; Top-rated; Comes in five colors

Con: Some colors can sell out

Customer Review: "The king of weekender bags. Dedicated compartments, lots of space, and comfy as heck on the shoulder. Added bonus if you have a roller suitcase because [it has] roller handle slots for baggage togetherness."— Revolve 

This versatile weekender bag from Everlane is what Style Editor Emma Childs calls a "life-changer." It includes a padded laptop sleeve, two water bottle holders, zipper pockets on the outside, and a removable shoulder strap, proving that it's the one bag that can take you just about everywhere. "I call on this nylon number for quick trips out of the city and occasionally use it as my in-office work bag if I have a busy day ahead," Childs describes of her well-loved black bag. "Plus," the fashion girl on the go adds, "it’s easy to style and sleek by design, so it never clashes with my outfit."

Pros: Can safely hold your laptop; Can do double-duty for work; Sustainably made; Lightweight; Comes either with or without the Everlane label. 

Cons: Some reviewers say the nylon straps can cut into your shoulders.

Customer Review: "This bag is IT! It’s so roomy— perfect for carrying a laptop and whatever else you need to fit for any kind of travel. Carry it on your shoulder as a crossbody, or slip it over the handle of your suitcase with an outer sleeve. Great price and very well made."—Everlane 

"This water-resistant nylon-and-leather overnight and weekender bag from Longchamp (another favorite brand of team Marie Claire) is great for longer trips because it’s actually expandable courtesy of a zip insert," Style Editor Emma Childs shares. "Plus, it folds down to lay flat, which makes it great for trips where you expect to shop or are planning to come home with more items than you left with—a.k.a. every vacation I've ever been on. Plus, it’s still eligible to be a carry-on, even if it’s fully-expanded," she explains.

Pros: Water-resistant; Has a removable shoulder strap; Expandable design; Comes in several colors 

Cons: Costs over $200; Has one interior side pocket. 

Customer Review: "This bag is like the Mary Poppins bag because you can store soo much in it, and there is even an expandable zipper on it. It was able to sit on my suitcase while traveling due to the short straps not letting it go anywhere. I love Longchamp because the materials last forever. Definitely worth the money for such a cute, durable, and large bag."—Nordstrom 

"I haven't met a CALPAK product I didn't love, but their classic duffel is perhaps my favorite of them all," gushes  Lucia Tonelli, Social Media Editor . "Aside from it being an objectively attractive weekender bag, the Luka's streamlined design doesn't come at the expense of practical features. With a bottom compartment for shoes (one of nine (9!) pockets in total), a slit for sliding the bag over the handle of rolling luggage (for quick sprints through the airport or trudging along city streets), and a plush, lightweight, comfortable design, it's everything you could want in a bag—and then some." 

Pros: Under $200; Seven colorways; Nine total pockets for organization; Water-resistant exterior; Shoe and water bottle compartments. 

Cons: Some customers report that the straps fall off the wearer's shoulder and that it reflects wear after a few uses.

Customer Review: "Love this new bag!! So many pockets to keep my things organized. And the sleeve for the luggage handle is a game changer because I don’t have to worry about holding my bag to ensure it doesn’t tip over when it’s on top of my luggage."—CALPAK 

"Our Large Travel Bag is my current favorite for many reasons," raves Karla Gallardo of Cuyana. "It’s a beautiful piece, but also checks every box that you should be looking for when investing in a travel bag. It’s incredibly spacious, with three large compartments for organization, metal feet for protection, and a wide crossbody strap that allows you to carry the bag however you wish. Plus," she adds, "it’s made from 100% GRS-Certified Plastic and is machine washable, making it a truly incredible, sustainable piece that stands apart from many travel bags on the market."

Pros: Adjustable shoulder strap; Two exterior pockets; Three interior pockets; Machine washable (delicate cycle only); Comes in two colors; Comes in two sizes. 

Cons: Over $200.

Cuyana's Co-Founder and CEO Favorite Aspect: "My favorite part of this bag is the luggage sleeve, which seamlessly and securely attaches my bag to my suitcase handle, making walking around the airport so much easier."

"I tend to overpack when going out of town for the weekend, but this weekend tote is ultra roomy," describes  Style Director Sara Holzman,  of this sleek   15" x 15" x 8" option from sustainable luggage brand Paravel. "Deep interior pockets mean I don't have to choose between my hair dryer and a pair of shoes—they're both coming with me. Plus, I feel good about using it because this bag is constructed from 12 upcycled water bottles." Oh, and if you like all your belongings to have a personal touch, opt to get this weekender monogrammed for $65. 

Pros: One interior zippered pocket, two interior slip pockets, and one exterior slip pocket; Option for personalized monogram; Trolley handle straps; Made of recycled plastic.

Cons: Over $200; Some reviewers say they wish it was slightly larger.

Customer Review: "Such a cute bag [that] makes solo travel infinitely easier! I love that it can be strapped onto my carry-on bag. The two interior pockets are great for things like my phone and passport while still having enough room in the interior of the bag for my laptop and things I want to be able to grab in-flight. Perfect!"—Paravel

"If you're looking for a no-frills weekender bag, this one (which costs under $100!) from Herschel Supply Co. is for you," suggests E-Commerce Editor J ulia Marzovilla . "It comes in four easy-to-style colors, including dark green and navy blue, has a double-zip design at the top for extra security, and an adjustable shoulder strap in addition to two straps on the top. There’s even a mesh pocket on the inside for extra storage, plus a zippered pocket on the exterior for the things you frequently reach for," the shopping expert explains.

Pros: Costs under $100; Has an interior pocket and an exterior pocket; has an adjustable shoulder strap; comes in multiple colors. 

Cons: Some reviewers note that having one pair of shoes in the bag takes up lots of space. 

Customer Review: "Used this as a weekend bag and it fit everything I needed. It's a lot bigger than you'd think and it's not bulky or cumbersome to get into an airplane overhead."—Nordstrom 

"This bag has been everywhere with me," says  Julia Marzovilla, E-Commerce Editor , on this easy-to-carry style from cult-favorite luggage brand Away. "It's lightweight, has an adjustable shoulder strap as well as a top handle, and has interior pockets so that all my stuff stays organized. Great for a quick trip, this weekender bag is just big enough to fit a few changes of clothes and two pairs of shoes at most," the shopping expert details, adding that this style will curb any over-packer's excessive habit.

Pros : Under $200; Water resistant; Trolley sleeve; Detachable padded shoulder strap; A padded 15" laptop pocket; Five colorways.

Cons : Some reviewers note the stiff handles can be uncomfortable and bulky.

Customer Review: "This bag exceeded all my expectations. It held everything I needed for my flight, including my laptop and tablet, personal items, and snacks, all within easy reach and nicely organized and accessible under my seat. This bag comes closer to perfect than any other I’ve had."— Away 

"This sleek weekend bag from Rains is how you look chic when Mother Nature decides to act up while you're traveling," says  Emma Childs . "It's made from a shiny coated polyurethane that literally wicks away moisture and rain to guarantee that your belongings stay dry all day long. And when it comes to its design, this one's a winner: It has a structured silhouette and flat base to ensure the bag stays upright. Oh, and there are detachable handle grips with slider buckles on the side to keep everything secure," explains the Style Editor.

Pros: Costs less than $200; Water-resistant design; Has removable handles; Has an adjustable shoulder strap. 

Cons: Only has one large interior pocket. 

Customer Review: "The bag's size was perfect, as its volume was big enough for both a two-night stay's worth of clothes and essentials. The light drizzle and the wet ferry rides alike tested its waterproof zipper and construction, and everything remained dry inside. Overall a sleek and great bag!"—Nordstrom 

Here's another favorite of E-Commerce Editor J ulia Marzovilla . "This neutral, small-but-mighty backpack from Fjällräven will hold your laptop plus all of your weekend or overnight essentials," she explains. "If you're someone that can travel the world with just one single pair of jeans, one pair of sneakers, and a few T-shirts, this is the one. It has a sleeve inside for a laptop, will fit your tablet plus most 15” laptops, comes in a few different colors, and is water-resistant. The lightly-padded shoulder straps also make it great for all-day carrying."

Pros : Costs under $200; Water-resistant; Fits most 15" laptops; Has a dedicated laptop sleeve; Has adjustable shoulder straps; Comes in several colors.  

Cons : Better for overnight or two-day trips.  

Customer Review: "This is the first backpack I have had in 6 years and the first one I have really liked! The padded straps are comfortable without being cumbersome, and it can fit my laptop, books, and a sweater while still appearing small when worn. I usually prefer multiple pockets, instead of just the one outer zip pocket, but because the main compartment can zip down all the way along the sides it is still easy to get to the smaller things that sink to the bottom." — Nordstrom

"Yes, it's pricey at $750, but it's worth every penny," says  Style Editor Emma Childs . "Hear me out: It's 21 inches long, so it can fit enough clothes to last you a week—plus your computer and all of your other essentials, of course. It has one interior side pocket, allowing you to stay organized but not struggle to find your items (the pitfall of many travel bags that feature way too many complicated compartments). The 42" crossbody strop is both adjustable and removable, allowing you to customize the fit and how you carry this style."

Pros: Is large in size; Adjustable and removable crossbody strap; Sleek leather look. 

Cons: Costs more than $200. 

Customer Review: " I just turned 30 and wanted to invest in nice luggage. This bag exceeded my expectations. As someone who always overpacked I was surprised to see everything easily fit for a week-long vacation!"—Saks Fifth Avenue 

What Is a Weekender Bag?

Not just any slightly larger tote bag can be considered a weekender bag, so it’s important to know what you’re looking for when you’re shopping, especially if you’re shopping online. "A good weekender travel bag should be bigger than a backpack, but smaller than a carry-on suitcase, and it must be easy to fit in an airplane, train, or however you choose to travel," says Gallardo. "What's key for me is being able to keep my bag organized; The interior should be roomy enough to fit the essentials but also have separate compartments to keep things tidy." Many of the options on this list work as a personal item that will fit in the overhead compartment on the plane. Some of the smaller options can also fit under the seat in front of you on a plane. 

Mitchell echoes the Cuyana expert: “I’d define a weekender as a bag that is big enough to fit every single thing that you need and small enough to sling over your shoulder and be your tagalong for a quick jaunt,” she shares over email.

How to Pack a Weekender Bag

"Organization inserts are a must in my book," shares Gallardo. "They help compartmentalize my items and keep my bag tidy. This way, I know where everything is and it’s easy to quickly grab my passport, laptop, toiletries or anything that I need when I’m in a rush."

Karla started Cuyana alongside co-founder Shilpa Shah with the vision of creating a global design house that inspires intentional buying through pieces that are crafted with integrity. Founded upon the philosophy of  fewer, better , Cuyana encourages customers to purchase fewer, high-quality pieces that they will love and treasure for years to come. Born and raised in Ecuador, Karla moved to the United States as she earned her Bachelor of Science in Applied Mathematics from Brown University and then joined Goldman Sachs. Karla then earned her MBA from the Stanford Graduate School of Business, where Cuyana was born. Since its launch in 2011, Cuyana has become the go-to brand for women seeking beautiful, functional, and sustainable pieces built to endure their everyday lives.

Shay Mitchell is an actress, multi-faceted entrepreneur and travel expert. Shay founded the travel and lifestyle essentials brand BÉIS in 2018, which offers stylish, functional, durable, and responsible fashion-forward luggage, baby bags, pet travel and accessories, cosmetics cases and more. Shay has been traveling extensively over the past 20 years. Whether flying cross-country or cross-continent, or navigating the daily hustle of an active lifestyle, Shay knows firsthand the joys and pains of every type of travel. With over 45 million followers across all platforms, Shay is one of the most celebrated voices on social media.

Stay In The Know

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Julia Marzovilla is the Fashion E-Commerce Editor at Marie Claire, where she reviews the latest launches from fashion and beauty brands, finds the best on-sale items around the internet, and interviews experts to find the best products in any category to share with her readers. She also creates shopping guides that span every vertical on the site as an expert in everything from the best laptop bags to the best laser hair removal devices.

In her near decade of experience, Julia has both written for several top outlets in the E-Commerce space and worked at major fashion labels. Prior to joining the Marie Claire team, she contributed similar shopping stories to sites such as Bustle, InStyle, The Zoe Report, Who What Wear, and worked as the Trending Fashion and News Writer STYLECASTER. You can find her across the internet at @JuliaMarzovilla. In real life, you can find her creating shopping guides for her friends, cooking or baking in her too-small kitchen, or buying tickets for the next time Harry Styles is in town.

Julia has a Bachelor’s degree in English with a minor in Journalism from Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles, California. She lives in New York City, her hometown.

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16 Stylish Weekender Bags for Women to Inspire Your Next Getaway

Any excuse for a vacation, right?

Our Top Picks:

Best Weekender Bag on Amazon

Camtop faux-leather-trim canvas overnight bag.

Best Lululemon Weekender Travel Bag

Lululemon go getter large weekender bag.

Best Budget Weekender Bag

Bagsmart travel overnight bag.

Best Carry-On Weekend Bag

Everlane renew transit weekender.

Best Beis Weekender Bag

Beis canvas and leather weekender bag.

Best Weekender Bag with Shoe Compartment

Calpak luka duffle bag.

Best Nylon Weekender Bag

Lo & sons catalina deluxe.

Best Sustainable Weekender Bag

Rothy’s structured weekender bag.

Best Overnight Bag

Away medium everywhere bag.

Most Durable Weekender Bag

S-zone oversize canvas leather-trim travel tote.

What should you consider when choosing a weekender bag?

Dimensions: From compact overnight bags that hold one set of clothes to those that can hold up to five-plus shoes, the size of your weekender will ultimately depend on how long you plan to travel and how many resources you need. Material: Whether you gravitate toward nylon that can withstand the elements or supple leather (real or faux!), there's a weekender for every style and budget.

Style: These weekender bags are a mix of duffels, totes , suitcases , and even convertible backpacks that are easy to carry and fit all your essentials for just a few days.

Features: Think shoe compartments, dedicated laptop sleeves, water bottle slips, and convenient exterior pockets for phones or IDs. Plenty also have trolley sleeves, a.k.a. the open-bottom slot that allows you to slide the bag onto suitcase handles. It's genius stacked on top of a roller bag for seamlessly moving through an airport.

Can a weekender bag be a carry-on? That’s one of the best parts! The majority of these weekender bags work for short excursions but also double as smart carry-ons for trips of any length. Once you’ve picked your new go-to weekender, you can grab a toiletry bag to keep yourself organized or add some hardworking travel accessories (like a mini hair dryer and jewelry case ). Comfortable clothes are ideal, too—try a pair of fabulous travel pants or one of these outfits on for size. Now all that’s left is to pick your destination—and actually see the world.

Camtop's bestseller and Amazon gem was made for daily wear and tear: The cotton-lined canvas design is durable, and its heavy-duty zippers promise dependability over time. Equipped with a laptop pocket, a separate shoe compartment, and a trolley sleeve, this weekender has a lot to offer without breaking the bank.

Dimensions: 17.3" x 8.3" x 14.5"

Colors: Beige, black, beige/black, botanical print, pink, sage stripe, army green, floral print, gray, leopard, marble, spotted leopard, black and white stripe, orange floral, quilted black, quilted olive, quilted beige, and quilted pink

For a sleek option, look no further than this water-resistant design from Lululemon. Every detail is considered, from the padded handles for easy carrying to the mix of small pockets for devices and travel essentials and bigger ones for your storage. There’s even an interior padded pocket for your laptop and a designated spot for your water bottle so you can easily access it. Finally, there’s a back-zippered pocket with a hidden trolley-compatible strap for when you have a suitcase with you.

Dimensions: 18.5" x 8.9" x 12.6"

Color: Black

Employ this soft, ultra-light nylon bag as an overnighter or a gym bag. Not only does it have straps for your yoga mat, a zipped shoe compartment, and trolley sleeve, but it’s also spacious enough for your trip essentials. This Amazon gem offers endless versatility as a work bag (thanks to a handy laptop sleeve), sports bag, travel bag, and even a diaper bag.

Dimensions: 18.5" x 8.7" x 11 "

Colors: Pink, beige, black, dark pink, purple, light beige, orange, and blue

Everlane's travel offerings continue to impress us. This weekender is made from recycled materials, is roomy enough to carry a pair of shoes, an outfit or two, toiletries, your water bottle, and your laptop. You can wear it cross-body, on your shoulders, or on top of a rolling suitcase using the discreet trolley sleeve. What more could you need?

Dimensions: 14.2" x 7.3" x 19.5"

Colors: Warm charcoal, black, warm quartz, nutria green, and katamala olive green

Trust us: The most talked-about weekender on the internet lives up to the hype. It has everything you need in one place: a zippered shoe compartment, a trolley sleeve, and a roomy interior with pockets for organization. It comes in seven different hues, from timeless neutrals to delightful brights.

Dimensions: 19" x 9.8" x 15.7"

Colors: Black, beige, gray, atlas pink, navy, maple brown, and olive

Calpak's bestselling Luka duffel has a roomy main upper with plenty of interior pockets and a large shoe compartment at the bottom—meaning you can stay super organized and stylish. Plus, there's a handy trolley sleeve for easy traveling.

Dimensions: 16" x 12" x 7"

Colors: Black, chocolate, and rose quartz

Lo & Sons Catalina Deluxe

With a spacious interior and separate bottom compartment —which can fit two to three pairs of shoes or your dirty laundry—this camo weekender will be a favorite for frequent travelers. In addition to the recycled poly material shown here, it also comes in a variety of eco-friendly canvas shades. This is an essential do-it-all weekender, with sturdy materials and construction that leave no room for worry.

Dimensions: 18.5" x 18" x 9"

Colors: Navy camo, gray, onyx, deep navy, and golden brown

Don’t let the gorgeous camel-and-black exterior fool you—this roomy travel tote is made with roughly 1,794 grams of ocean-bound plastic. Beyond that, it has a detachable strap and multiple zippered compartments (and a laundry bag), not to mention that it's fully machine-washable. (P.S. You’ll want the matching overnight bag and wristlet , too.)

Dimensions: 21.5" x 13.8" x 8.9"

Colors: Camel/black, shadow black, and sand stone gray

If you prefer an understated approach to style, this minimalist nylon carry-on with leather detail is ideal. It fits perfectly under a seat, and in addition to the requisite laptop sleeve, it even has a compartment for a water bottle or umbrella. This size is great for one or two nights away, but for more packing room, try the large size , and for an everyday bag, try the smaller version . Plus, it has a laptop and trolley sleeve to make multi-carry travel a breeze.

Dimensions: 17.7" x 11" x 9"

Colors: Navy, black, coast blue, and olive green

This canvas bag’s vintage unisex appeal and durable leather trim are undoubtedly its main selling points. Inside, plenty of zippered pockets make organizing your passport, wallet, and tech a breeze. While it's considered a fantastic overnight bag, the room for storage seems endless.

Dimensions: 21.7" x 14.8" x 10.2"

Colors: Blue, army green, gray, dark gray, light gray, black stripe, blue stripe, and khaki

Brouk & Co Capri 2-in-1 Garment and Duffel Bag

Are you traveling for a wedding or important business meeting? This bag will be your holy grail—it has a built-in garment bag and side pockets for shoes, plus a healthy amount of space for everything else you’ll need for the weekend. “This smart carryall makes schlepping your stuff for an overnight getaway goof-proof," Oprah said of the bag when it was featured in her 2022 Favorite Things list . "Fill up the garment bag first, then add a couple of pairs of shoes to the side pockets and zip it all up so it transforms into a duffel bag before you put in the rest of your essentials.”

Dimensions: 22" x 9" x 14 "

Colors: Tan/fuschia

Kate Spade Chelsea Recycled Nylon Weekender

We love the minimalist look and easy clean of a nylon travel bag. Kate Spade's convertible weekender can be worn on the shoulder or stacked on top of luggage, thanks to a handy trolley strap. It has plenty of interior and exterior pockets to keep you organized throughout your travels.

Dimensions: 17.7" x 11" x 8.6"

Colors: Deep jade and black

Paravel Main Line Duffle

Travel like an old-school jetsetter with this chic, vintage-inspired carryall. Not only is it made from a stain-repellent coated canvas with premium leather trim, but light packers could stash up to five days’ worth of clothing inside. It also makes a fabulous gift for those who love a monogrammed moment.

Dimensions: 20" x 11" x 10"

Colors: Scout tan and Domino black

Dagne Dover Landon Neoprene Carryall Duffle Bag

This extra-large, spacious, water-resistant neoprene duffel makes simplified storage and transport easier. than ever. Thanks to a water bottle holder, a shoe duster, a mesh pouch, and a padded laptop pocket, all of your essentials stay in place.

Dimensions: 9" x 4.75" x 6.25"

Colors: Navy, black, camel, gray, and dune

Samsonite Mobile Solution Classic Duffel

Made from a sleek, water-resistant nylon with sturdy vinyl trim, Samsonite's classic duffel bag offers a premium travel solution whether you're off for a night or a week. It has plenty of pockets inside and out to keep you organized on the go. You can easily stack it on your luggage thanks to a handy trolley strap, or the adjustable shoulder strap can be worn as a crossbody.

Dimensions: 15.35" x 12.6" x 7.87"

Colors: Black and navy blue

Cuyana Recycled Knit Weekender

Travel smarter with this functional and fabulous weekender—crafted with a fine knit made from recycled plastics. Three main interior compartments keep all of your essentials organized, while the outside has laptop-sized pockets and a trolley sleeve, too. Also available in black and pebbled leather , as well as an overnight size.

Dimensions: 22.5" x 14.5" x 7"

Colors: Cappuccino and black

Cassie Hurwitz (she/her) is an associate editor at Oprah Daily, where she covers everything from culture to entertainment to lifestyle. She can typically be found in the middle of multiple books and TV shows all at once. Previously, Cassie worked at Parents , Rachael Ray In Season , and Reveal. Her love language is pizza (New York slices, Chicago deep dish, and otherwise). 

Sara Klausing covers all things fashion and style for Oprah Daily . Follow her on Instagram .

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Verabradley Womens Cotton Grand Weekender Travel Bag

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• MACHINE WASHABLE RECYCLED COTTON – The cotton fabric that you’re familiar with has been reimagined; the exterior fabric is made with 50% recycled cotton fibers and has all of the comfort, softness, and vibrancy that you know and love.
• BE MOBILE WITH MULTIPLE BAGS - With a 7 inch strap drop & a 53 inch removable, adjustable strap, you can grab the dual straps on the go or throw over your shoulder - or utilize the trolley sleeve to attach it to your luggage handle
• PACK IN STYLE - Skip the extra carry on & take advantage of the interior pockets of this spacious duffle - featuring 5 mesh pockets to organize your cosmetics, hair products, jewelry, & other toiletries
• ESSENTIALS AT YOUR FINGERTIPS - The exterior features 3 slip pockets & 2 zip pockets - ideal for stowing wallets, boarding passes, reading material, or snacks to keep them quick to access & soundly fastened for your flight
• STYLISH, LIGHTWEIGHT & SIZED RIGHT - The Grand Weekender Travel Bag measures 15 inches high, 21 inches wide, & 9 inches deep - giving you a spacious travel bag & essential for your next getaway

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• Date First Available ‏ : ‎ April 23, 2024
• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0D2JLFHJ6
• #503 in Travel Duffel Bags

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Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers like the size, versatility, color and quality of the handbag. They mention that it's very roomy, has lots of pockets and storage, and is great for weekend getaways, short trips and long weekends. They appreciate the Vera detail in the fabric.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers find the handbag very roomy, with lots of organizational pockets and compartments. They say it fits in the overhead compartment and is easy to store toiletries and essentials. Some love the external pockets and the feature on the back that allows them to keep stuff organized.

"...I love the colors and many storage pockets inside and out . I am happy with my purchase and met my expectations...." Read more

"Vera Bradley never disappoints! This weekender is roomy and well-made. The perennials noir pattern is beautiful." Read more

"This is a well constructed travel bag with a lot of room for clothes , toiletry and make up bags, and your hair dryer and curling iron...." Read more

"...The design is so cute and it is the perfect size for when I stay at my boyfriend’s or go on a weekend trip or just want to travel light!" Read more

Customers are satisfied with the color of the handbag. They mention it's very pretty, has a beautiful print, and is brilliant in person. They also appreciate the Vera detail in the fabric and the fact that it'll make a great addition to any outfit.

"...I am hoping this one does as well.I love the colors and many storage pockets inside and out...." Read more

"...This weekender is roomy and well-made. The perennials noir pattern is beautiful ." Read more

"This Vera Bradley bag is gorgeous ! Packaged nicely and shipped really quickly! Perfect bag for a weekend getaway!" Read more

Customers find the handbag versatile. They say it's a great travel bag, perfect for weekend getaways, short trips, and overnight stays. Some mention it'll be a good gift for a college student.

"...This bag served both purposes very well ; I have another smaller Vera Bradley duffle bag which I have had for years...." Read more

"...Packaged nicely and shipped really quickly! Perfect bag for a weekend getaway !" Read more

"Too big for a personal item for a flight, but great for a long weekend for a mn over-packer." Read more

"This bag is great for short trips or long weekends. I purchased this bag for my daughter so she would stop borrowing mine...." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the quality of the handbag. They mention that it is well-made, durable, and attractive. They appreciate the great quality material and construction.

"...It has been washed several times and it has held up very well . I am hoping this one does as well...." Read more

"Vera Bradley never disappoints! This weekender is roomy and well-made . The perennials noir pattern is beautiful." Read more

"This is a well constructed travel bag with a lot of room for clothes, toiletry and make up bags, and your hair dryer and curling iron...." Read more

"...I purchased this bag for my daughter so she would stop borrowing mine. Durable I own a few like this one I have had for 8+ years...." Read more

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The Best Carry-On Luggage and Weekender Bags for Memorial Day Travel: Away, Samsonite, Calpak and More

The right luggage or carry-on bag for your Memorial Day weekend can help make any trip as smooth as possible.

If you're gearing up for your Memorial Day travel plans, you may be searching for the perfect luggage to accompany you on your upcoming getaway.  Carry-on luggage  — including weekender bags and spinners — is probably the best way to travel if you want to beat the lines at busy airports, especially if you're traveling on a Friday.

No matter where your travel destinations are, one thing's for sure: the right luggage will make all the difference. We've found the best luggage to shop for all of your travels, from spacious duffle bags and practical backpacks to large and luxurious carry-ons  for your next flight.

Need a new tote bag to toss everything in for an upcoming Memorial Day weekend getaway or a bigger carry-on for a tropical vacation? The Beis Weekender Bag will fit all your essentials and help you travel in style. Need a new go-to suitcase for every travel situation? Away’s  standard carry on traveler bag has plenty of packing space while still fitting in the overhead bin. Trying to avoid the checked baggage fees and long bag drop line? The Samsonite Underseat Carry-On Luggage helps you save money and time by going straight to TSA.

Below, we've rounded up the best carry-on luggage and weekender bags this year to take along on your holiday trip.

The Best Carry-On Suitcases for 2024

Samsonite freeform carry-on spinner.

Not only is the Samsonite Hardside Spinner perfectly sized and extremely durable, it's also incredible lightweight so you won't have to strain putting it in the overhead airplane compartment. With all kinds of pockets, you can easily organize all your belongings confidently. 

$200   $140

Away The Carry-On

This Away bag boasts flashy features such as a durable polycarbonate hard shell, spinner wheels and a TSA-approved, ejectable USB charger. The classic rolling hardside luggage with a retractable handle is designed to fit in most major airlines' overhead compartments, making it a great go-to Carry-On bag for travel, regardless of your destination.

Take OFF Luggage Personal Item Suitcase 2.0

The perfect-sized luggage that doubles as a personal item — just pop off the wheels and slide it under your seat. 

Rockland Melbourne Hardside Expandable Spinner Wheel Luggage

This Rockland Melbourne Spinner Luggage makes traveling easier by being extremely lightweight. While protecting your items, the wheels rotate 360 degrees for a smooth and seamless stride in the airport. Although it is compact, this carry-on luggage has the ability to hold everything you need for a short vacation.

Travelpro Platinum Elite Hardside Expandable Spinner

Travelpro is a pilot-founded brand that you've likely seen used by flight crews. Travel stress-free with the Travelpro hardside carry-on luggage that effortlessly fits in the overhead bins of major domestic airlines, thanks to rigorous sizer bin testing and enhanced packing capacity. The PrecisionGlide System delivers impeccable control and a seamless rolling experience, so you can get through the airport with ease.

$370   $314

Samsonite Underseat Carry-On Spinner with USB Port

Compact and convenient, this soft-sided luggage can slide smoothly under the seat in front of you or be tucked away in an overhead bin. The bag's main compartment can fit several outfits and a spare pair of shoes. Interior pockets lining the compartment will keep your toiletries organized. The telescoping handle and rolling wheels make this bag easy to navigate around a crowded airport, making it a great choice for the frequent flyer looking to pack light.

$145   $100

Monos Carry-On

Traveling is a breeze with the minimalist Monos carry-on, designed to fit in the overheard bin of almost any flight.

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage

This Travelpro Maxlite softside luggage has spinner wheels and is lightweight, making it easy to maneuver airport terminals and your flight's overhead storage bins. 

The Best Travel Backpacks and Totes for 2024 

Samsonite detour travel backpack.

Built to protect your belongings from the elements, the Detour Travel Backpack has enough capacity for your business, overnight or weekend trips.

$150   $105

Béis Travel Tote

The Beis Travel Tote, from Shay Mitchell's baggage line, can conveniently slot into place atop a suitcase with its trolley sleeve, but can also be carried on its own with a detachable shoulder strap, and top handles designed to rest comfortably on your shoulder. This bag boasts a bottom zip shoe compartment, padded tech sleeve and multiple exterior and interior pockets. 

Calpak Luka Backpack

With multiple storage compartments including a separate laptop sleeve and a space to store your shoes that has its own exterior access, this lightweight Luka backpack will help you stay organized on the go.

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack

This travel backpack comes with a weight-distributing, low-profile harness system and a 35L capacity, making it suitable for carry-on use. It is designed with a full-wrap zipper opening on the main compartment, along with large and subdivided zippered mesh compartments on the sides, providing convenient packing options. Additionally, its attractive design ensures you can easily identify your bag wherever you go.

Troubadour Featherweight Tote

A modern classic and easy-access bag. This Featherweight Tote features a light and waterproof fabric with vegan leather handles, and is perfect for gym trips or a day out!

Dagne Dover Jemi Puff Tote

Whether you're traveling to work or a weekend getaway, this lightweight tote is perfect with pockets for days to keep all your belongings organized. 

The Best Weekender Bags for 2024 

Lululemon go getter bag 2.0.

This sleek, modern bag looks like a tote and duffel rolled into one. There's also a little strap in the back that you can attach to your luggage. 

Away The Everywhere Bag

Away Travel's The Everywhere Bag lives up to its name: you can take it everywhere from work to the gym to a weekend away. It also pairs nicely with The Carry-On and The Bigger Carry-On.

Calpak Stevyn Duffel

Enjoy the benefits of a large bottom compartment, ideal for stowing shoes or enhancing the organization of your items.The roomy main compartment comes with interior pockets, ensuring you have plenty of space to store your belongings in a well-arranged manner.

SwissGear Apex Travel Duffle Bag

This duffle bag will come in handy during your next vacation. You can wear it multiple ways and it has reinforced sides to keep your belonging secure.

Dagne Dover Landon Carryall Bag

For weekends away, this extra-large duffle includes a laptop sleeve, shoe bag and plenty of space for all your essentials.

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The 21 best travel backpacks, luggage, and accessories, starting at under $100

• Published: May. 13, 2024, 3:05 p.m.

With 40% of travelers planning on traveling even more in 2024 than they did the previous year, there’s a good chance you have a trip planned for the summer.

You may be eyeing a tropical locale for some rest and relaxation or have your heart set on an adventurous vacation with plenty of outdoor activities planned.

No matter where you’re headed, you’re going to need to pack some essentials for your trip. This means you’ll need some durable luggage , a backpack or weekender bag to hold your belongings and those must-have travel accessories you’ll need before boarding your next flight .

But finding the right travel bag can be a hassle with endless options brands and styles to sort through. To help you decide which travel bag to buy for your upcoming trip, this comprehensive roundup has some of the best, including checked luggage , carry-on bags , weekender bags , backpacks and more.

Here’s a look at some of the most recommended travel bags and accessories to make all your travels even easier in 2024.

Related: JetBlue Personal Item Policy: 7 bags you can fit under seat with no problems

Best Checked Luggage

These are some of the top-rated checked luggage you can buy for all your summer adventures, including these popular suitcase styles from Samsonite and Travelpro. Amazon

These are some of the best checked luggage you can buy for those summer vacations that require air travel to get there.

• Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Luggage: “It’s exceptionally durable and breezed through our strenuous testing with hardly a scratch — the polycarbonate is designed to flex slightly to absorb impacts before popping back to its original form. While the bag sustained no major damage like dents or gashes when we dropped it off tables and hit it with a baseball bat,” Travel + Leisure says.
• Travelpro Platinum Elite Expandable Spinner Luggage: “This bag provides a luxury feel at a reasonable price, with a capacity, warranty, and reliability that should suit most travelers. The 25-inch model should offer plenty of room for most travelers, without going over airline weight limits,” Wirecutter says.
• Away The Medium Luggage: “It’s solid and durable — with only a few scuffs from its trip down the stairs — has an incredible interior compression system, is easily maneuverable and is even comfortable to carry for when you need to lift it in and out of the car,” CNN says.

Best Carry-On Luggage

These are some of the best carry-on luggage you can buy today, including these popular styles from Samsonite and CALPAK. Amazon, CALPAK

You can take these carry-on luggage on the plane to keep your belongings close as you travel.

• Beis The Carry-On Roller: “This brand from actress Shay Mitchell has gone viral on TikTok thanks to its stunning monochromatic designs and its unique features, including a built-in weight indicator that lets you know if your luggage is over 50 pounds. It also has an extendable strap in the front that lets you attach a smaller bag, helping to free up your hands while traveling,” Good Housekeeping says.
• CALPAK Ambeur Mini Carry-On: “They’re slim, sleek, sport a rock-solid polycarbonate shell, feature an assortment of pockets and plenty of storage space, but its low price point makes it an especially attractive option for thrifty travelers,” Time says.
• Samsonite Freeform Carry-On Spinner: “Even after six months of regularly traveling with this bag, it shows no signs of wear and tear, and any scuffs it has accumulated have been easily buffed out. Considering the reasonable price, durable construction, and spacious capacity, we think it’s a great choice for frequent fliers and anyone in need of a high-quality carry-on,” Travel + Leisure says.

Best Weekender Bags

Here are some of the top weekender bags available to buy today, including these popular styles from Beis and lululemon. Beis, lululemon

If you’re planning a short trip, these weekender bags are some of the best you can buy.

• Beis The Commuter Duffle: “On the outside, it keeps things simple with a single zippered pocket and simple slip pockets on the remaining sides, while the inside has a total of five pockets (one zippered, two mesh, and two elastic), a velcro padded laptop pocket that can fit up to a 15-inch laptop on top of its capacious main compartment, and a luggage handle sleeve longer,” InStyle says.
• Lo And Sons Catalina Deluxe: “It features a messenger strap with removable padding so that your shoulder never gets sore if your bag is packed full, plus double-sided zippers and a bottom compartment where you can store shoes away from your clothing. As an added bonus, the bag is made from malleable canvas, which makes it easy to roll back up into your closet when you’re done using it,” Forbes says.
• Calpak Luka Duffel: “It has a thoughtful design with a large exterior pocket, a separate shoe compartment and internal organizational features. The shoulder strap was comfortable to carry and there is a removable crossbody strap as well,” Good Housekeeping says.

The Best Travel Bags of 2024

• JetBlue Personal Item Policy: 7 bags you can fit under seat with no problems
• The best backpacks to buy in 2024, according to reviews
• The best carry-on luggage to buy for all your trips in 2024, according to reviews
• The best travel duffel bags to buy in 2024, according to reviews
• The best weekender bags to buy for travel in 2024, according to reviews

Best Backpacks

These are some of the best backpacks you can buy today, including these popular designs from Away and The North Face. Away, The North Face

Pack all your necessities in these top backpacks on everywhere you go this summer.

• Osprey Farpoint 55 Travel Backpack: “Virtually indestructible, it safely holds a 16-inch laptop and your worldly goods. The harness, back panel, and hip belts can be stowed away when unused. No need to carry a small bag for daytime excursions as it comes with a detachable daypack with a lockable laptop/tablet sleeve. It can be used as a domestic flight carry-on item,” Time says.
• Patagonia Atom 20L Tote Pack: “Our pick for the best small travel backpack is the Patagonia Atom 20L Tote Pack, a versatile, lightweight bag that stows under airplane seats. This backpack has a large main compartment, which houses a thickly padded removable 13-inch laptop sleeve and a hydration bladder pass-through for hikers,” National Geographic says.
• The North Face Borealis Backpack: “Its 28-liter capacity is big enough to fit the extras you pick up during errands on your way home. It has a separate laptop compartment and just enough easy-access pockets to stay organized. This bag can go out on the trails after work or on the weekends as well. It’s super durable and water-resistant, which only adds to its versatility,” GearLab says.

Best Travel Duffel Bags

Here are some of the top travel duffel bags you can buy today, including this Patagonia Black Hole style. REI

These top-rated travel duffel bags can hold all your gear as you explore uncharted territories.

• Patagonia Black Hole Duffel: “This bag is the most versatile gear duffle we’ve found. It’s tough, water-resistant, and great for toting clothes and equipment in almost any travel or outdoor scenario,” Wirecutter says.
• Beis Commuter Duffel: “The bag is bursting with compartments and pockets for organizing small, medium, and large items so you can pack efficiently before a weekend getaway. After we packed the bag full of clothing, shoes, and a toiletry bag, it was fairly heavy, but the shoulder and tote straps were shockingly comfortable and helped balance out the weight,” Travel + Leisure says.
• REI Co-op Roadtripper: “The REI Roadtripper offers excellent storage and utility at over half the price of other bags, making it an exceptional value for a duffel bag on a budget,” GearLab says.

Best Portable Chargers

Here are some of the top-rated portable chargers on the market today, including this popular Anker PowerCore model. Amazon

Keep your tech devices charged with these portable chargers and you’ll never worry about dead batteries on your vacation.

• Anker PowerCore 10,000 PD Redux Power Bank: “This power bank is small enough to be popped into a pocket or bag, and big enough to give your devices a decent boost,” ZDNet says.
• Belkin BoostCharge Plus Portable Charger: “This power bank is small and light, and its rounded edges make it easy to slip into a pocket. It comes in only one color, but it has two built-in cables and enough capacity to charge most smartphones up to three times,” Wirecutter says.
• Nimble Champ 5K Portable Charger: “At 6.2 ounces, it’s one of the lightest on the market. It’s smaller than a deck of cards and can deliver 20 watts to charge two devices at once via a USB-C port on either end,” Wired says.

Best Water Bottles

Here are some of the top water bottles you can buy to keep your beverages cold and flowing all summer long, including this Owala FreeSip style. Owala

Stay hydrated with these popular water bottles that keep your beverage cold during all your summer trips.

• Yeti Rambler Water Bottle (26 oz): “It keeps your water cold enough, but what makes it stand out is its amazing durability and drinkability. Plus, the Rambler is customizable, available in 14 colors and five sizes (12 ounce, 18 ounce, 26 ounce, 36 ounce and 46 ounce), and it’s even dishwasher-safe,” CNN says.
• Stanley IceFlow Fast Flow Bottle (24 oz): “The bottle’s handle is extremely sturdy. Though it’s close to the spout, it rotates down so it’s not in the way while drinking. It also features a hook that holds the bottle’s cap,” Good Housekeeping says.
• Hydro Flask Wide Mouth with Flex Straw Cap (32 oz): “The open mouth and simple construction make the Hydro Flask easy to clean. We love the easy breezy flip-up straw cap. And with a comfortable finger carry loop, you barely need to lift a finger to tote it around,” GearLab says.

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6 things to know as Memorial Day kicks off ultra-busy summer of travel

Airports will be crowded for Memorial Day. But flying this summer might also be cheaper.

When it comes to summer travel this year, one word keeps coming up: busy.

“This will be the busiest summer travel season we have on record,” David Pekoske, administrator of the Transportation Security Administration, said at a news conference last week.

The agency expects to screen more than 18 million people at airports between Thursday and May 29; Pekoske said he anticipates days later this summer on which security checkpoints will see a record 3.1 million or 3.2 million people.

“We haven’t seen Memorial Day weekend travel numbers like these in almost 20 years,” Paula Twidale, senior vice president of AAA Travel, said in a news release forecasting nearly 44 million travelers between Thursday and Monday. “We’re projecting an additional one million travelers this holiday weekend compared to 2019, which not only means we’re exceeding pre-pandemic levels but also signals a very busy summer travel season ahead.”

Travel advisers say the numbers are bearing out the enthusiasm they’ve seen from clients. John Lovell, president of Travel Leaders Group , said families have been planning for this summer since last year — and already are booking trips for spring break and the summer of 2025. He said people realized early in the pandemic how much travel brought to their lives and have since made it a priority.

“What we’re hearing every single day is that people are just so joyful to get out into the world again,” said Mel Burton, coordinator at CruCon Cruise Outlet .

For the millions of people traveling over the upcoming weekend or months, there are some key tips to remember.

Airfare is giving us a break

It should cost less to fly over the holiday weekend (or throughout the summer) this year compared with last — and even compared with pre-covid times.

According to flight-booking app Hopper, the cost of domestic flights for Memorial Day weekend was averaging $260 as of last week, a decrease of 9.5 percent year over year.

“It’s a trend that’s going to continue through the summer,” said Hayley Berg, Hopper’s lead economist.

For June, July and August, domestic airfare is averaging $305 a ticket, a 6 percent drop, Hopper said in its summer outlook . Even flights to Europe are trending cheaper after last summer’s sticker shock. Berg said the average airfare for Europe flights of $950 for June through August was down 8 percent.

Still, that’s about 15 percent higher than the cost of flights in 2019.

More seats are available

Part of the reason behind the higher travel numbers and lower airfare is simple: There are more seats to fill.

According to Hopper, there are about a million more seats flying domestic routes over the Memorial Day weekend from Thursday until the following Tuesday — more than a 6 percent increase in capacity.

“We fully expect airlines are ready for it,” Berg said. “They’ve added back only capacity that they can maintain because of the disaster of cancellations and delays in 2022 coming out of the pandemic. We’re not expecting any major meltdowns barring any unexpected weather.”

Cirium , an aviation analytics company, said that there are over 15 million more seats flying domestically between June and August this year compared with last, an increase of 5.6 percent.

That all amounts to a little bit of potential relief for travelers, said Scott Keyes, founder of the cheap-flight alert service Going .

“Airlines just have more capacity and more flights on the schedule, which results in cheaper fares and more elbow room,” he said.

New refund rules won’t help you yet

Maybe this summer will be free of airline meltdowns, but it’s better to prepare for the worst. Passengers should be aware that they are entitled to their money back if their flight is canceled or significantly delayed and they end up not traveling.

By the winter holidays, new rules will be in place requiring airlines to automatically refund passengers in those cases. But that rule — which also covers refunds for significantly delayed bags and extra services that aren’t provided — won’t be in place for summer travelers.

To get a refund before the rules kick in, travelers will need to request it from their airline and be prepared to push for money back instead of vouchers or flight credits.

To find out what else they might be entitled to in case of delays or cancellations that are caused by airlines, travelers can turn to a Department of Transportation customer service dashboard . That will reveal which airlines will, for example, book passengers on an alternate carrier, provide meal vouchers, offer ground transportation or pay for a hotel if a traveler is stranded.

Bag fees are up

Alaska Airlines started a pricing trend in January when it raised its fee for a checked bag from $30 to $35. American Airlines did the same the next month, followed by price hikes from United, Delta and JetBlue . It was the first time some airlines had raised checked-bag prices in years.

Keyes, who predicted that multiple airlines would raise bag fees at the beginning of the year, said it will be interesting to see whether any bag pricing will change after the new DOT rule on fees goes into effect.

For now, he warned, “don’t be shocked when each bag costs $5 more than the last time you traveled.”

Deals in Florida, Mexico and Canada

Travel experts rounded up some of the most budget-friendly summer flights for The Washington Post: look to Colorado, the Caribbean, rural Europe and beach regions in Mexico.

In its summer forecast , booking site Kayak also has suggestions for the cheapest average airfare for the summer. Florida, Mexico and Canada are all at the top of the list.

The top cheap flights domestically include Minneapolis, Orlando and a handful of locations in Florida (Tampa, Fort Myers and Fort Lauderdale). Canada (Toronto, Montreal, Calgary) and Mexico (Guadalajara, Mexico City) top the list internationally.

Guns are not carry-ons

Pekoske reminded travelers that firearms aren’t allowed at security screening areas, in secure parts of an airport or in airplane cabins. Passengers who want to travel with a gun have to follow a list of rules that include keeping them unloaded, locked and stored in checked bags. People who bring a gun through security could be arrested or cited by local authorities and could be subject to a TSA fine and loss of PreCheck eligibility.

“As you can imagine, whenever there’s a firearm at a checkpoint, it slows down the process certainly for that individual, but for everybody else in that checkpoint,” he said.

So far this year, there have been 2,300 firearms detected at security checkpoints, Pekoske said; last year, the number was more than 6,700 .

“We’re not seeing that go down like we’d like to see it,” he said.

The U.S. Embassy in the Bahamas has also warned travelers heading to the Turks and Caicos Islands to carefully check bags for weapons or ammunition. Five Americans have been arrested on ammunition charges while traveling in the Caribbean destination and face a sentence of 12 years in custody.

“If you bring a firearm or ammunition into TCI, even inadvertently, we will not be able to secure your release from custody,” the embassy said.

More travel tips

Vacation planning: Start with a strategy to maximize days off by taking PTO around holidays. Experts recommend taking multiple short trips for peak happiness . Want to take an ambitious trip? Here are 12 destinations to try this year — without crowds.

Cheap flights: Follow our best advice for scoring low airfare , including setting flight price alerts and subscribing to deal newsletters. If you’re set on an expensive getaway, here’s a plan to save up without straining your credit limit.

Airport chaos: We’ve got advice for every scenario , from canceled flights to lost luggage . Stuck at the rental car counter? These tips can speed up the process. And following these 52 rules of flying should make the experience better for everyone.

Expert advice: Our By The Way Concierge solves readers’ dilemmas , including whether it’s okay to ditch a partner at security, or what happens if you get caught flying with weed . Submit your question here . Or you could look to the gurus: Lonely Planet and Rick Steves .

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The Best Gym Bags Are the Best Bags, Period

By Avidan Grossman , Jake Woolf , and Will Porter

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The best gym bags are built for more than just the gym. Sure, they come with the product specs you'd expect from a bag designed to store your sweaty workout gear —water-resistant fabrics, adjustable shoulder straps, ample shoe compartments—but these aren't bags made exclusively for exercising.

Functionality is paramount, but so is form (kind of like, uh, going to the gym ). And now that you're hitting the gym again with some regularity—or swear this is the week you're going to start!—you'll need a bag up to the task. A tote bag won't do the job. A backpack feels inadequate. But a specialty gym bag (a.k.a. a duffle bag—or “duffel bag,” depending on your preference) with a generous main compartment to keep those filthy gym clothes separated from the chinos and button-up you'll be changing into post-shower? That's just what the doctor ordered. Especially when said gym bag comes with an abrasion-resistant laptop sleeve so you can bring your work with you wherever you go, you sick puppy, you.

The Best Gym Bags Shopping Guide

• The Best Gym Bag, Overall: Patagonia Black Hole Duffel 40L , $159
• The Best Gym Bag With Shoe Compartment : Tracksmith Weekend Duffel , $190
• The Best Gym Bag on Amazon : Peak Design Travel Duffel , $140
• The Best Gym Bag With Laptop Compartment: Lululemon City Adventurer Large Duffle Bag , $168
• The Best Gym Backpack: Aer Fit Pack 3 , $149
• The Best Waterproof Gym Bag: Rains Gym Bag , $95
• The Best Retro Gym Bag: L.L.Bean Waxed Canvas Duffel , $159
• The Best Budget Gym Bag: Nike "Brasilia" Training Duffle Bag , $52 $46
• The Need-for-Speed Gym Bag: Red Canoe Boeing Stow Duffle Bag , $109
• The C-Suite Gym Bag: Bennett Winch Weekender Holdall , $1,300
• The Best Gym Bag for Bougie Bodybuilders: Saint Laurent Ripstop Duffel Bag , $1,250
• The Best Gym Bag for Traveling : Matador Freefly Packable Duffel Bag , $85

And don't forget: Even the most technical gym bag can double as a slick weekender on a last-minute summer getaway or a lightweight carry-on for your first airplane trip in months—provided, of course, you invest in a style with the right accoutrement. Durability is a must, as is an easy-access side pocket to store your water bottle. A few carefully placed external pockets to hold all your small items never hurt, either. So even if you're an expert gym-goer getting reacquainted with the day-to-day grind, it's worth reminding yourself what a game-changer a high quality gym duffle can be, and then tracking down the best one for your routine.

Luckily, GQ Recommends unearthed 11 of the absolute best gym bags on the market right now, so you can hit your PRs—or just hop on the Hampton Jitney—in style.

The Best Gym Bag, Overall: Patagonia Black Hole

Black Hole Duffel Bag, 40L

Patagonia Black Hole duffel bag, tested and reviewed by Timothy Beck Werth

Is there anything Patagonia's legendary Black Hole bags can't handle? In tote or dopp form, the waterproof 14-ounce 900 Denier nylon fabric works like an impenetrable forcefield, repelling whatever the world throws at it (and looks way better for the wear, though you can always hose it down for a makeshift factory reset). Its duffel, though, remains a standout, thanks to features like daisy chains for you to hook on an extra pair of climbing shoes or a portable speaker for your bike commute to and from the gym. The cavernous 40-liter main compartment is enough to house a weekend's worth of outfits, and features a separate mesh pocket that's great for keeping your sweaty gear far away from your crisp 9-to-5 standbys. Plus, its handles and straps mean you can carry it however you prefer—no more straining your biceps with extra work after a gnarly arms day.

The Best Gym Bag With a Shoe Compartment: Tracksmith Weekend Duffel

Weekend Duffel

Boston’s Tracksmith needs no introduction by this point—they’ve been crafting some of the best heritage-inspired performance running gear for a decade now, not to mention whipping up dope collaborations with brands like District Vision and Brendon Babenzien’s new-look J.Crew. The Tracksmith Weekend Duffel is a mainstay in our rotation, even if we’re not headed out of town for race weekend. The bag is extremely well made and is built to last, much like the vintage pieces it draws inspiration from. It’s outfitted with a roomy shoe compartment for your stinky kicks or gym clothes, plus comes with a super handy nylon blanket to spread out on race day or in the park on a weeknight.

The Best Gym Bag on Amazon: Peak Design Travel Duffel

Peak Design

Travel Duffel 35L

Sure, we already featured some other bags that you can buy on Amazon, but few are as high quality as the Peak Design Travel Duffel. Like all of the brand’s gear, it’s centered around photography and travel, but we absolutely love the 35-liter model for the gym. It has an extra long zipper that makes it easy to rummage around in, is made from heavy duty nylon that can stand up to a beating, and, maybe most importantly, is guaranteed for life against manufacturing defects and any failure that renders the bag unusable. It’s not hard to trust a product that is backed with that kind of confidence.

The Best Gym Bag With Laptop Compartment: Lululemon City Adventurer

City Adventurer Large Duffle Bag

If you tend to book it to the gym as soon as you log off, you need a bag that can hold your workout duds and your office essentials—and won't look out of place at either. The City Adventurer is the best gym bag from Lululemon if only because it comes with plenty of storage for your sweat-wicking, four-way stretch gear along with a padded sleeve for laptops up to 16" (you know, in case you need to bang out some emails while you wait for the bench to free up). It's cut from a lightweight waterproof fabric and tricked out with handles, a cross-body strap, and exterior pockets, including an expandable option specifically for your sweat-soaked garms. We're also giving it bonus points because it's shaped like a bowling bag, which you should definitely use it for if this guy's energy matches your own.

The Best Waterproof Gym Bag: Rains Gym Bag

Rains Gym Bag

Bloomingdale's

Rains is famous for outerwear that laughs in the face of inclement weather. Its duffle bag harnesses the brand's trademark waterproof tech to protect your workout gear from the worst of the elements, whether it's raining cats and dogs or you're the bedraggled owner of a pet insistent on slobbering all over your gym shoes.

The Best Budget Gym Back: Nike Brasilia

Brasilia Training Duffle Bag

This one's a no-brainer. The Brasilia is one of the most popular gym bags in Nike's arsenal, and if you can't trust the Swoosh to provide a spacious, heavily-zippered duffle to store all your swoosh-emblazoned gear, who can you turn to? It's got easy-access exterior pockets for small valuables like your phone and earbuds as well as ventilated mesh side pockets to keep your sweaty clothes and dirty shoes from stinking up the main compartment. And with a durable coated bottom, you won't have to worry about scuffs and tears.

The Best Retro Gym Bag: L.L. Bean Waxed Canvas

Waxed Canvas Duffle

Not everyone is into the newfangled waterproof, anti-odor, solar-powered BS that gym bags have become. What happened to a good ol' fashioned duffel bag? Well, L.L.Bean's timeless duffle bag has been around for decades and isn't showing any signs of going away. Sure, the recipe has changed a bit over several decades, but the vintage specimens that menswear geeks drool over aren't all that different from today's version. It's made with full-grain leather handles and all-cotton waxed canvas that'll repel water and look better with age (something none of the synthetic bags can say). Add to that detachable shoulder straps, convenient exterior zip pockets, a reinforced bottom, and a rugged heritage look that'll outlast any trend and you've got yourself a bag that'll see you pumping iron well into retirement.

The Best Gym Backpack: Aer Fit Pack 3

Okay, yes—Aer's Fit Pack 3 is technically a backpack. But its fan-favorite style comes chock full of the type of product details you'd expect to see in a next-level duffle designed for heavy-duty wear and tear. Its exterior is made out of abrasion-resistant 840D nylon with Cordura side paneling, and a padded interior ensures your laptop stays secure no matter how many dirty socks you've wedged in there. Factor in an easy-access water bottle pocket and Duraflex hardware, and you're looking at a formidable gym bag alternative that might convert even the staunchest duffle devotee.

The C-Suite Gym Bag: Bennett Winch Weekender

Bennett Winch

Weekender Holdall

Todd Snyder

If you’re hunting for a gym bag that doesn’t look out of place in a corner office, Bennett Winch’s luxe bag is the solution. It brings the clean lines of a weekender, the functionality of a gym duffel, and craftsmanship of the tailor who makes your bespoke suits. Hand-crafted in England using top-shelf materials (full-grain leather for the handles and reinforcement areas, heavy-duty brass for the zippered pockets, and water-repellent-bonded cotton), Bennett Winch's Weekender is all about subtle opulence. The roomy main compartment has a padded laptop sleeve and enough space for at least two outfits. Plus, the bag comes with two separate waterproof compartments—one on either end—to keep stanky shoes and sweaty clothes away from your suit and tie.

The Best Gym Bag for Bougie Bodybuilders: Saint Laurent Ripstop Duffel Bag

Saint Laurent

Ripstop Duffel Bag

They say that showing up to the gym is half the battle, but for plenty of folks, it's more like all-out war. That's why you pay thousands of dollars a year to go to a gym jam-packed with amenities like a juice bar and a day spa—storming the beaches, or, in this case, hauling your ass to the gym, feels like way less of a struggle when you're not slumming it to your local NYSC. Enter Saint Laurent's ripstop bag, which took home top honors in this year's Fitness Awards for its ability to transform your workouts into bona fide fashion moments. You’ll never have to worry about ID'ing it in the locker room, but don’t blame us if someone “accidentally” walks off with it while you’re on the treadmill. All's fair in love, war, and lifting.

The Best Gym Bag for Traveling: Matador Freefly Packable Duffel Bag

Freefly Packable Duffel Bag

Meet your secret to keeping up your workout even on vacation. The Matador Freefly features all the crucial gym bag amenities like water-resistant materials and dedicated compartments for large and small goods—with a superpower. The duffel rolls up into itself until it’s the size of a hamburger (and not even one of those giant restaurant monstrosities). Toss it into your luggage and you won’t have to juggle your gear on the way to the hotel gym again.

What to Look for in a Gym Bag

Materials: These days, most gym bags are made from some form of nylon, but some of our favorites incorporate leather and canvas, too. Nylon is easiest to clean and resists odors better than other materials, but if you’re looking for something that’s going to last, make sure you figure out how thick the material is. For example, some cheaper nylon bags may end up being quite flimsy, while other bags, like the Peak Design bag we mentioned, is made from bulletproof 600D nylon that could probably be dragged behind a car without busting. Make sure you also consider the zippers—nothing is worse than a faulty zipper that stops working after a few uses.

Type of bag: Yes, this story is specifically geared toward gym bags, but as you may have noticed, many of the bags on our list are intended for travel, weekends away, or commuting. Any bag can be a gym bag if you want it to be! Don’t worry so much about the name of the bag or what the brand states as the bag’s main purpose, just make sure it has what you want. Sometimes that’s a shoe compartment, sometimes that means finding a bag that can be carried by hand or slung over your shoulder, and sometimes you just want something cheap to tote a towel and fresh pair of boxers. In the end, this is up to you, so read the details, look at the images, and if you decide you like a bag, make it your go-to.

Size : There's no reason to drag a bag the size of your checked suitcase to the gym. If you're only bringing a change of clothes and a pair of shoes, you'll want a bag that's just big enough to carry all of that because your workout shouldn't be the commute to the gym itself. Also, take into consideration the size of your gym's lockers—if you get a bag too big, you'll have to leave your gear out in the open, just asking to be stolen.

How We Tested

Not only is our team here at GQ obsessed with bags, but we’re also a pretty sporty bunch. We are just as dedicated to spending time at the Park Slope YMCA or LES Equinox as we are to keeping our finger on the pulse of the latest style trends. This means that we definitely use the things we talk about. A web-based image is no good to us, and it shouldn’t be enough for you. So we test bags constantly, hauling our workout gear all over the place, looking for the best of the best to then recommend our favorites to you.

Our group of editors and writers includes marathon runners, road cyclists, rec league soccer players, and Barry’s die-hards, so you can be sure that each bag we recommend has been put through its paces.

More Great Fitness Recommendations from GQ

The Best Treadmills Will Have You Looking Forward to Indoor Miles

The Best Rowing Machines Will Wring You Out

The Best Yoga Equipment for Beginners and the Otherwise Inflexible

Not a subscriber? Join GQ to receive full access to GQ.com.

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Founded in 1982, Supracor is the originator of fusion-bonded honeycomb technology, a flexible form of aerospace honeycomb utilized in products that promote the health and safety of people and animals. Supracor’s Stimulite® honeycomb is the basis of a revolutionary line of wheelchair cushions.

Supracor’s products are exclusively made in California’s Silicon Valley from American-made, recyclable materials. How iRoll Sports is excited to offer Supracor’s innovative products! From active lifestyle honeycomb wheelchair Supracor “Stimulite” sport cushions to cozy sandals, Supracor is How iRoll Sports approved!

Supracor Stimulite “Sport” Wheelchair Cushion

Supracor Stimulite “Classic” Wheelchair Cushion

Supracor Stimulite Classic XS Wheelchair Cushion

Supracor Stimulite Yoga Mat

Supracor Stimulite “Wellness” Lounge Mat

Supracor Stimulite “Adjustable Contoured XS” Wheelchair Cushion

Supracor Stimulite “Adjustable Contoured” Wheelchair Cushion

Supracor Stimulite “Contoured” Wheelchair Cushion

Supracor Stimulite “Contoured XS” Wheelchair Cushion

Supracor Stimulite “Silver” Wheelchair Cushion

Supracor Stimulite “Smart” Wheelchair Cushion

Supracor Stimulite “SlimLine” Wheelchair Cushion

Supracor Stimulite “SlimLine XS” Wheelchair Cushion

Supracor Stimulite Bariatric Wheelchair Cushion

Supracor Stimulite “Contoured Pediatric” Wheelchair Cushion

Supracor Stimulite “Corbee” Pediatric Wheelchair Cushion

Supracor “St. Tropez” Honeycomb Sandals – Men’s

Supracor “St. Tropez” Honeycomb Sandals – Women

Supracor “Le Weekend” Men’s Sandals

Supracor “Le Weekend” Women’s Sandals

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