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9 Best Foldable Travel Bags and Foldable Luggage

Ashley Rossi

Ashley Rossi is always ready for her next trip. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram for travel tips, destination ideas, and off the beaten path spots.

After interning at SmarterTravel, Ashley joined the team full time in 2015. She's lived on three continents, but still never knows where her next adventure will take her. She's always searching for upcoming destination hotspots, secluded retreats, and hidden gems to share with the world.

Ashley's stories have been featured online on USA Today, Business Insider, TripAdvisor, Huffington Post, Jetsetter, and Yahoo! Travel, as well as other publications.

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Whether you live in a small space and need all the storage room you can get, or you need an extra bag to pack for your return trip home, these nine foldable travel bags fit the bill.

The Best Foldable Travel Bags: Duffels

From hybrid backpack-duffels to collapsible spinners, there’s an easy storage option for every travel style and size.

HEXIN Packable & Collapsible Lightweight Foldable Large Travel Duffel

This large and durable duffel by HEXIN is great to pack with your normal luggage in case you end up buying additional items that can’t fit in your packed bag. It is lightweight and has a shoe storage compartment and an 85-liter capacity. It’s one of the top-rated foldable travel bags on Amazon. Its ripstop nylon fabric protects against water and tearing.

Dimensions: 24 x 9 x 14 inches, folds to 11.5 x 10 x 3 inches.

The North Face Flyweight Duffel

This highly compressible duffel is one of the smallest foldable travel bags on the list. The super-functional duffel is part of The North Face’s Flyweight Collection , featuring 30 percent lighter fabric. The bag has removable shoulder straps and top grab handles, as well as an external zippered pocket and stretch-sleeve pockets. If you’re a light packer, this foldable travel bag is the perfect option.

Dimensions:  13.5 x 20 x 8.5 inches, folds into internal zippered pocket.

Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler Duffel

This 60-liter foldable travel bag packs into its front-end zippered compartment for easy storage. These foldable travel bags also come in sizes small through extra-large. Each size has removable backpack straps, padded top handles, and side grab handles. The U-shaped lid makes for an easily accessible main compartment, and the bottom is foam-padded for rugged environments (or baggage handlers).

Dimensions: Taken from the medium size: 26.5 x 10.25 x 13.5 inches, folds to 13.5 x 10.5 x 5 inches.

Cotopaxi Uyuni Travel Duffel Bag

The Cotopaxi Uyuni is one of the most versatile foldable travel bags out there. While it doesn’t have any special storage features, it lies completely flat and takes up minimal space under a bed, making it easy to stow it. I love this backpack-duffel hybrid because the backpack straps snap under a flap, so they don’t get in the way if you want to use the shoulder strap. The 46-liter size works well as a carry-on.

Dimensions: 20 x 11.25 x 5 inches, folds flat.

Patagonia Black Hole Duffel Bag

This backpack-duffel hybrid is one of the best foldable travel bags out there as it completely folds into itself (admittedly, the first time is a little tough, but with practice it gets easier). The polyester ripstop material, complete with weatherproof TPU laminate and a sturdy water-repellent finish, makes this bag extremely durable in the outdoors.

Dimensions: 28 x 17.5 x 13 inches, folds into itself.

The 10 Best Weekend Travel Bags for Men

The Best Foldable Travel Bags: Rollers

Biaggi zipsak line.

The Biaggi ZipSak line offers a variety of folding travel bags, but my favorite is the 22-inch spinner . The bag folds up into a package the size of a packing cube for easy storage, with “MicroFold” technology that shrinks the bag. All the products in the ZipSak line are affordable. The upright bags have four multi-directional spinner wheels and are super lightweight.

Dimensions: Taken from the carry-on spinner: 22 x 14 x 10 inches, folds into a Z-Fold pack.

16 Packing Hacks That Will Change How You Travel

Eagle Creek No Matter What Rolling Duffel

This rolling duffel from Eagle Creek somehow miraculously folds into its own stuff pouch—yes, even the wheels. Available in sizes L and XL , this is one of the largest foldable travel bags on the market. This foldable luggage also has sturdy, oversized wheels, reinforced webbing, and compression straps.

Dimensions : Taken from the L size: 30 x 15 x 14 inches, folds into itself.

Biaggi Lift-Off! Expandable Underseater to Carry-On

Though not fully collapsible, this 2-in-1 bag starts off as an underseater and expands up into a full-on carry-on bag. Separate dirty shoes from your clean clothes by simply unzipping the top lid and pulling up the top fabric in order to reveal a brand-new compartment.

Dimensions: 22 x 14.5 x 7 inches at full size, condenses down to 15 x 14.5 x 7 inches.

Best Carry-On Luggage: Affordable Bags Under $150

Lipault 0% Pliable Collection

Our favorite item in the Lipault 0% Pliable Collection is the Foldable Upright 55/20 . It’s one of the best-quality collapsible bags out there and folds up into its own case. The spinner is soft-sided and lightweight, so you can fit a lot in it without excess bag fees.

Dimensions: 21.6 x 14.6 x 8.6 inches, collapses flat.

What to Pack in Your Foldable Travel Bag

Women’s outfit to wear this spring, shop the look.

Square Shirt

Ankle Skinny Jeans

Hydro Flask

Leather Tote

Wool Runners

Men's shoe-less outfit to wear in spring.

Shielded Money Clip

Wireless Headphones

Waterproof Roll Top Backpack

More from smartertravel:.

• 10 Underseat Carry-on Bags You Can Take on Any Flight
• 9 Great Crossbody Bags for Travel
• Ultralight Rolling Carry-on Bags Under 6 Pounds

Editor’s note: All of these foldable travel bags were available at time of publication.

Some review products are sent to us free of charge and with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions, positive and negative, and will never accept compensation to review a product.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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9 Brilliant Pieces of Collapsible Luggage for the Space-Challenged Traveler

The smartest thing you bring on vacation could be an empty suitcase. we’ve picked our favorite foldable travel bags so you can bring home more souvenirs..

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The lightweight Paravel Fold-Up Bag expands from a small pouch into a duffle that fits all your essentials for a weekend—and it only costs $75.

Courtesy of Paravel

That spontaneous vacation shopping spree boosted your wardrobe significantly, but it dramatically shrunk the free space in your suitcase. To avoid lugging home your new treasures in the paper sack they came in, plan ahead and pack a foldable travel bag.

These are our nine favorite pieces of collapsible luggage—including packable backpacks, totes, duffles, and even roller suitcases—that unfold to offer loads of additional space. Bonus? Many of these can also double as a daypack for when you’re out and about souvenir hunting.

The Away Packable Backpack is available in navy (seen here), as well as black and teal.

Courtesy of Away

1. The Away Packable Backpack

• Buy now: $75, awaytravel.com
• Style: Packable backpack
• Dimensions: 18.1 x 11 x 5.9 inches (7.1 x 4.7 x 2.4 inches packed)
• Capacity: 19 liters
• Weight: 8 oz.

Away launched its first line of packable bags in 2021, with an extra-large carry-all , a small sling bag , and our choice: the Packable Backpack . Constructed with 100 percent recycled water-resistant nylon, this backpack comes with lightly padded shoulder straps for comfort, a zippered interior pocket for organization, and buckle closures to keep your belongings secure. When you’re done, it folds up into a removable zip pouch and stashes away easily.

In addition to black, seen here, the Matador ReFraction Packable Duffle also comes in slate blue and white.

Courtesy of Matador

2. Matador ReFraction Packable Duffle

• Buy now: $50, matadorup.com
• Style: Packable duffle bag
• Dimensions: 21.5 x 11 x 8 inches (7.5 x 5 x 2.75 inches packed)
• Capacity: 25 liters
• Weight: 7.9 oz.

Made from a durable and water-resistant recycled nylon fabric, the Matador ReFraction packable duffle is a 25-liter bag that squishes down to the size of a paperback book and weighs only 7.9 ounces, or the equivalent of a few Snickers bars. Despite its minimalist design, it comes with two external stretch pockets on the front for organization and a built-in shoulder strap. For those looking for lightweight day bags with a similar sleek design, the ReFraction collection also includes a 16-liter packable backpack as well as a 2-liter packable sling bag .

The Freefly16 Packable Backpack stuffs down into an included sack, shown here in front.

3. Matador Freefly16 Packable Backpack

• Buy now: $80, matadorup.com
• Dimensions: 19 x 10 x 6 inches (3.75 x 3.75 x 5.5 inches packed)
• Capacity: 16 liters
• Weight: 6.7 oz.

For more outdoorsy endeavors, Matador’s Freefly16 Packable Backpack is a great option. As one of the newest additions to Matador’s travel line, it’s designed to perform even better in wet conditions (it’s water-resistant, not waterproof) and weighs less than the previous backpacks by Matador, such as those in the ReFraction series. A rarity for backpacks of this size and weight, it comes with a thin hipstrap for better distributing weight, two water bottle cages (one on each side), and a spacious external pocket for stashing anything you need to reach quickly. It packs down into its own dedicated stuff sack, so you can easily toss it into your luggage and have a quality hiking or walking-about-town daypack on hand when you arrive at your destination. “Overall, I love this bag’s packability, weight, and additional features like the hipstrap,” says Jessie Beck, AFAR’s associate director of SEO & Video. “I’ve used it on at least a dozen trips since getting it, and it’s proven to be durable and sturdy as well.”

This packable bag folds down to the size of a book and comes in six colors, including Safari Green, seen here.

4. Paravel Fold-Up Bag

• Buy now: $75, tourparavel.com
• Dimensions: 18 x 11.5 x 11 inches (9.75 x 8 x 2.75 inches packed)
• Capacity: n/a
• Weight: 16 oz.

Paravel’s ultralight duffle bag can pack into your big luggage for those gotta-have-it souvenir emergencies. The tear- and water-resistant duffle is featherlight and zips neatly into a small pouch when you’re not using it. It’s also AFAR digital content director Laura Dannen Redman’s go-to weekend bag . She calls it the “ Trojan horse of weekend bags ” since it holds so much more inside than you’d expect. She can easily fit two pairs of shoes, two toiletry bags, and three days of winter clothing in it. An added bonus—the sustainable nylon material is made from 22 recycled plastic water bottles.

Paravel’s Negative Nylon Collection also comes with packable backpacks and belt bags that all fold up just like this duffle.

This Patagonia tote pack comes in Burl Red, seen here, as well as four other colors.

Courtesy of Patagonia

5. Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Tote Pack 27L

• Buy now: $99, patagonia.com
• Style: Packable tote pack
• Dimensions: 15.5 x 10.25 x 8 inches (packed dimensions unavailable)
• Capacity: 27 liters
• Weight: 13.05 oz.

Weighing in at just under a pound, this tote pack has both tote straps for over the shoulder wear and backpack straps. It also stuffs into its own pocket for storage. A wide zipper opening allows easy access to belongings, and zipped exterior and interior stash pockets provide enough space for valuables. Nylon ripstop fabric—made with 100 percent recycled materials—makes the bag tear-resistant, and a special finish means it’s water-repellent, too.

As its name implies, the packable Baggu Cloud tote weighs less than a pound.

Courtesy of Baggu

6. Baggu Cloud Bag

• Buy now: $56, baggu.com
• Style: Packable tote bag
• Dimensions: 21 x 13.8 x 8 inches (9 x 7.5 x 2 inches packed)
• Weight: 8.65 oz.

This lightweight packable tote—which comes in fun, limited edition prints or basic black—folds up into an included pouch and expands to a roomy carry-all. Use it as an overnight bag, beach tote , or in emergencies when your clothes just don’t seem to fit into your carry-on the same way they did when you arrived.

Baggu has also expanded its Cloud Bag collection with the same foldable design to include a mini-version that works as a daily purse, a carry-on duffle that fits in overhead bins, and an extra-large version for when you really need to bring everything with you.

The Eagle Creek Packable Backpack 20L is available in black (seen here) and blue.

Courtesy of Eagle Creek

7. Eagle Creek Packable Backpack 20L

• Buy now: $35, eaglecreek.com
• Dimensions: 18.5 x 10.25 x 5.5 inches (7.5 x 5 x 2.5 inches packed)
• Capacity: 20 liters
• Weight: 6 oz.

Eagle Creek’s Packable Backpack is ideal for casual day hikes—and even has a side water bottle pocket. When you don’t need to use it, just stuff it into its side zipper pocket. When it’s packed, it takes up less space than a Nalgene water bottle, so it’ll fit snuggly in your carry-on or checked bag. Made with 100 percent recycled ripstop polyester, this bag is ultra durable but weighs less than half a pound.

The Longchamp Le Pliage Expandable Tote currently comes in Pomegranate (seen here) and Dahlia, a rich burgundy shade.

Courtesy of Nordstrom

8. Longchamp Le Pliage Expandable Tote

• Buy now: $195, nordstrom.com
• Dimensions: 12 x 16 x 7 inches (fully expanded); 12 x 11 x 7 inches (zipped)
• Weight: 12.8 oz.

A packable classic for a reason, all of Longchamp’s lightweight nylon totes can be folded down to the size of a paperback book when not in use. ( Pliage literally means “folding” in French.) But this expandable version also includes a zip inset that allows the bag to go from regular tote size to an extra-large carryall so you can bring all your souvenirs home.

Yes, even wheeled luggage can be packable.

Courtesy of Biaggi

9. Biaggi Zipsak Boost Max Luggage

• Buy now: $90 (was $210), biaggi.com
• Style: Collapsible suitcase
• Dimensions: 18.5 x 9.5 x 17 inches (carry-on); 18.5 x 9.5 x 28 inches (check-in); 18.5 x 9.5 x 4.5 inches (packed)
• Weight: 4.9 lbs.

Made with water- and tear-resistant nylon fabric, the Biaggi Zipsak Boost Max wheeled suitcase easily expands from overhead luggage size to checked bagged capacity with the pull of a zipper that increases the bag’s height from 17 to 28 inches. It’s a great way to save the checked bag fee one way when you want to load up on souvenirs on the way back. When completely zipped up, the bag can easily be tucked under your bed or in your closet for storage. Jessie Beck contributed reporting to this article. This article originally appeared online in 2018; it was updated most recently on September 13, 2023, to include current information.

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Have you ever been in a situation where you’ve done a whole lot of shopping and found that much of it doesn’t fit into your luggage? Or, have you ever, at least once in your life, stared woefully at a souvenir, knowing that you can’t possibly take it back because of crammed luggage space? Well, if you plan your travel smartly by investing in the best foldable travel bags, you won’t need to worry about foregoing that souvenir! If you’re a big spender, then it’s wise always to carry travel bags that fold up with you. The great thing about these bags is that you can fit them into a small space and literally forget about them until you actually need to use them. Foldable bags for travel are lightweight and surprisingly durable!

However, not everyone who invests in a foldable luggage bag has souvenirs in their mind. Many travelers prefer to invest in luggage that can be safely stowed after use without occupying too much space. So, from the best collapsible suitcase, foldable backpacks, and foldable luggage, you are spoiled for choice. There’s a wide range of options to choose from, which can be quite confusing. To make things easier for you, we’ve reviewed some of the best foldable travel bags that we feel would cater to various travel needs! Keep scrolling and read our picks!

Table of contents

Ifaraday foldable duffel bag 75 l, bago 80l duffle bag.

• Arxus Foldable Duffle Tote 

Naturehike 18L Packable Backpack

Samsonite tote-a-ton 32.5 inch duffel, hanke 20-inch foldable suitcase, verage foldable luggage, wandf foldable travel duffel bag, gonex 60l packable duffle bag, outlander packable backpack, canway 65l foldable weekender bag, redcamp 96 l extra large duffle bag, narwey for spirit airlines foldable duffle bag, paravel foldable travel duffle bag, tumi voyageur just in case backpack, our verdict, size and space saving ability, what is the specified size for carry-on luggage, what is a personal item, is it necessary to invest in a foldable travel bag, how much should i pay for a good foldable travel bag.

We start our list of best foldable travel bags with something so lightweight yet able to fit tons of stuff. The IFARADAY Foldable Duffle Bag 75 L is the best collapsible suitcase you can carry anywhere you travel. When folded, this bag is not that much bigger than an iPad! But once you expand it, you’ll have a 75L capacity.

This bag weighs only half a pound and comes with a lockable, two-way zipper. This means you can make it your main bag as well as your “just in case” bag for when you need extra space to put stuff you buy for your family and friends back home. In addition to that, it’s also available in three different shades, including Black, Red, and Blue. Honestly, all of them look equally great!

• Its 75L capacity allows you to carry a lot.
• Weighing only 0.52 lbs, this bag is super convenient to use.
• We’re huge fans of the smooth two-way zipper.
• This bag is so compact when folded.
• Unfortunately, it doesn’t have the most durable material.

Something cheap with more than 10,000 reviews, there definitely is something special about this multipurpose Bago 80L duffel bag ! You can conveniently fold this large bag and store it away in a drawer when not in use or take it to the gym when you’re done traveling. Since the bag is so lightweight, you can even take it on the flight with you! Or, feel free to carry it empty as an emergency backup, making it one of the best foldable travel bags.

The Honeycomb Ripstop fabric of the bag is pretty good as it resists wear and tear. Additionally, it’s also water-resistant. A bag of this size has ample storage space with a few extra pockets for better organization. We especially liked the expanding side pocket, which would be ideal for separating dirty clothes. One of the best things about it is that it has a separate odor-free space for packing shoes. Meanwhile, the removable shoulder strap gives you more carrying options.

• Despite being lightweight, it’s very spacious.
• The bag comes with an expanding side pocket for better management.
• It’s lightweight and folds into a flat square when not used.
• It has a durable, water-resistant material.
• The secure stitching guarantees the bag’s durability.
• It’s available in 12 different colors.
• There might be an uneven weight distribution if not packed full.

Arxus Foldable Duffle Tote 

Most foldable bags have a main pocket and a small zippered pocket for smaller items, which is no different. However, the Arxus Foldable Duffle Tote also has two mesh side pockets for water bottles. Made from lightweight waterproof, and tear-resistant oxford fabric, this bag is extremely durable. It’s a handy bag for any extra luggage that you may pick up on your travels. As one of the best travel bags that fold up, it sure doesn’t disappoint. When you unfold it, the bag has a storage capacity of 25L.

If you’re planning to take this as backup carry-on luggage, you can pack it to fit under the seat in front of you. The detachable extensible shoulder strap and grab handles are convenient for transporting the bag. Moreover, we also like that it can be slipped onto the handle of bigger luggage with its attach-a-bag sleeve.

Dimensions: Folded 7 x 7 x 1.5 inches – Unfolded 18 x 12 x 6 inches

• We love how lightweight and durable this bag is.
• There are extra pockets on the inside and outside.
• The extensible shoulder straps are detachable.
• There are dedicated mesh pockets for water bottles.
• It’s the most impressive travel bag but good for fitting extra stuff like souvenirs.

For the die-hard ‘backpack fan,’ this one’s for you. The Naturehike 18L Packable Backpack is so convenient that it can be folded small and stuffed into a small space to emerge when you need it. It has some surprisingly good features that made an impression on us too. It’s made from high-quality 30D nylon material and stitched with fine nylon lines, making it more durable. Added to this is the fact that it is tear-resistant. The YKK zippers are also sealed with silicone for additional durability.

As the name suggests, the large main pocket is roomy enough with an 18L capacity. Additionally, there’s also an outer and inner zippered pocket and two side mesh pockets. Padded adjustable shoulder straps make the bag comfortable to carry around. Touted as a ‘sea to sky bag’ for men and women, we couldn’t agree more with the functionality of this backpack.

Dimensions: Folded 4.7 x 2.7 inches – Unfolded 17 x 10 inches

• Though lightweight, this backpack is so durable.
• It folds so small that finding a place for it won’t be difficult.
• The high-quality ripstop-nylon material is long-lasting.
• The YKK zippers are silicone coated.
• There are two extra pockets for small items.
• You can use the large mesh pockets to hold your water bottle.
• Though not a deal-breaker, you should note that there’s no waist strap.

Best Brand. Samsonite has been in the luggage-making business for a while now, and the Samsonite Tote-A-Ton 32.5 Inch Duffel is one of its best products! This foldable duffel bag proves why the brand is so well-liked. With over 6,000 reviews on Amazon, the Samsonite Tote-A-Ton does seem to be a popular buy. With its affordable price tag and durable material, this bag impressed us so much that it even made it to our list of best budget luggage as well!

This no-frills bag can be taken as a foldable backup bag or can even be used as travel luggage. Crafted from lightweight, durable denier nylon, the bag expands to 32 inches when packed to capacity. According to the official website , it only weighs 1 lb! This means you have plenty of packing space. However, like some travel bags that fold up, it’s not big on organizational pockets. An interior zippered pocket and an exterior pocket are your only additional options. Although there are no straps or wheels, a sturdy handle will help you to transport the bag easily.

Dimensions: Unfolded 33 x 17 x 11.5 inches

• This is a versatile and multipurpose bag that you can take wherever you go.
• Crafted from durable denier nylon, it can last for years.
• We love its large compartment with an interior zippered pocket.
• It’s available in 12 different colorways.
• No wheels or straps could make this a little difficult to carry if packed to full capacity.

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Suppose you’re looking for a travel bag that provides you with multiple options for storage or luggage; we highly recommend this best collapsible suitcase. This bag’s versatility allows you to take it as carry-on or checked luggage. The Hanke 20-Inch Foldable Suitcase is a collapsible luggage bag that expands to three heights and has a storage capacity ranging from 54.99L to 90L. Additionally, it folds down flat when empty, so you won’t find it too difficult to store this luggage when you’re not using it.

We think that this is one of the best carry-on luggage for men as there’s a lot that you can fit into the first layer of the bag. The bag has firm top handles and a convenient adjustable shoulder strap. Outfitted with four silent wheels, this foldable luggage bag is also easy to maneuver. Furthermore, we like the durability of the polyester fabric with sturdy zippers. Check out this YouTube video review to get to know this suitcase better!

Dimensions: 1 Layer Expansion (17.72 x 10.24 x 19.68 inches) – 2 Layer Expansion (17.72 x 10.24 x 25.99 inches) – Complete Expansion 17.72 x 10.24 x 31.49 inches)

• Its 3-layer expansion allows it to be one of the handiest travel bags ever.
• As a durable option, it comes with sturdy zippers and handles.
• The sturdy and convenient strap is detachable.
• The 4 silent wheels allow you to maneuver it easily.
• It folds flat for easy storage.
• You must be careful when packing this bag to ensure that items you want easy access to are at the top.

Best Suitcase. This best collapsible suitcase takes your packing game to a new level. Verage Foldable Luggage is not just a bag but a smart suitcase. What makes it one of the best foldable bags for travel is its 2-in-1 feature as both a carry-on and a checked bag! Talk about versatility! In its normal state, this bag is only 24 inches. But once expanded, it becomes a huge 28-inch luggage bag!

The fun doesn’t stop there! Each of these bags comes with spinner wheels that can turn 360 degrees while rolling, making maneuvering through the airport gates so much easier. Material-wise, this collapsible luggage bag is made of heavy-duty fabric that is claimed to be both water and tear-resistant.

Dimensions: Folded 17 x 13 x 5 inches – Unfolded 28 inches

• It has a whopping capacity of up to 28 inches.
• As a durable product, it’s both water and tear-resistant.
• For better maneuverability, it comes with 360-degree spinner wheels.
• This bag works as a carry-on, 24-inch, and 28-inch checked bag.
• Need to pack heavy stuff on the bottom of the bag to keep it balanced.

A multifunctional bag that’s extremely light on the pocket is how we would describe this foldable travel duffel bag. One of the main reasons WANDF Foldable Travel Duffel Bag makes it to our list of best foldable travel bags is the price. This one will suit you if you’re not looking to spend too much on a backup bag.

This bag is crafted from high-quality water-resistant fabric and can be used for multiple purposes. It meets the carry-on regulations of Spirit Airlines and other major carriers. Furthermore, the pouch which the bag folds into can slide over the handle of a trolley for easy transportation. Reinforced straps and sturdy zippers add to the sturdy construction of this lightweight bag.

Dimensions: Folded 7 x 7 x 7 inches – Unfolded 17.7 x 12.6 x 6.3 inches

• This multifunctional bag can be used for gym, travel, and everything in between.
• We love the durable, high-quality water-resistant fabric.
• It meets the carry-on regulations of major airlines.
• Promising durability, it features reinforced straps and sturdy zippers.
• Don’t expect this bag to work like magic at the price you pay. It would probably be a good idea to reinforce the seams, just in case.

Available in dark and neutral colorways, the Gonex 60L Packable Duffle Bag is a nice option for those who want fashionable foldable bags for travel without looking tacky. Crafted from water-resistant and durable honeycomb nylon fabric, this multipurpose bag will serve you well on your travels. You can fold it away into a self-containing pouch, keep it on standby, or use it as a regular travel duffel bag.

Besides rating this as one of the best foldable travel bags, we also think it’s one of the best travel duffel bags. We like that there’s a separate shoe compartment and multiple pockets with a spacious main compartment. You can put a lot into this bag with this organizational space. Meanwhile, the two firm handles will give you grab-and-go portability. In addition, it also has a shoulder strap for additional flexibility.

Dimensions: Folded 11 x 10 x 1.6 inches – Unfolded 24 x 14 x 9 inches

• Many people love its durable, water-resistant fabric.
• There’s a separate shoe compartment.
• We love how the shoulder strap is adjustable.
• It comes with a self-containing pouch to fold and store after use.
• We find the handles to be super sturdy.
• If you’re going to be taking this as a backup bag, there are no issues. However, this foldable travel bag may be smaller than the average duffel bag.

When a bag has over 13,000 ratings on Amazon (and still counting), with more than 70% of them being 5 stars, there must be something special about it. We were curious to find out what makes this backpack so special, and we weren’t disappointed. Firstly, the Outlander Packable Backpack has a spacious packing capacity of 33L, which is a good size to carry on luggage. You can also pack it away in your luggage for those extras you want to bring home or use it as a day pack.

Moreover, it has a classic backpack shape with several pockets for better organization. Two front zipper pockets will hold smaller items, while the internal zippered pocket can be used for your travel documents. It also has a roomy main pocket and two side pockets for water bottles or umbrellas. The bag is made from ripstop nylon fabric, meaning it’s both water-resistant and durable. Meanwhile, the durable 2-way abrasion-resistant SBS metal zippers move smoothly to keep your bag secure. Finally, this foldable travel backpack also comes in a wide range of colors.

Dimensions: Folded 6.29 x 5.9 x 2 inches – Unfolded 19 x 13 x 8.2 inches

• The water-resistant rip-stop nylon fabric is durable.
• We love the addition of the 2-way abrasion-resistant SBS metal zippers.
• There are multiple pockets.
• In addition, there are side pockets for bottles as well.
• It comes complete with a carabiner clip.
• It may not stand up to the rigors of the outdoors a regular backpack.

Another foldable bag for travel that ranks high in the reviews is the Canway 65L Foldable Weekender Bag . We weren’t too surprised with the positive reviews as this bag looks great and is also highly durable. The waterproof and tear-resistant fabric is made from 600D polyester fabric. Also, you can be sure that this bag will stand up well to the rigors of travel with premium metal SBS zippers and reinforced stress points.

The lightweight duffel has a spacious main compartment and six separate pockets for better organization. What we like the most is the ventilated shoe pocket that can also be used for dirty laundry! Moreover, the sturdy padded handles and detachable strap make the bag easy to transport. It also has a sleeve to attach to a bigger trolley bag. Oh, we also like the fact that the bag comes with a two-year warranty. Anything that has a warranty reflects the company’s commitment to a good product!

Dimensions: Folded 10.6 x 9.4 x 3.9 inches – Unfolded 26.3 x 13.7 x 12.2 inches

• This bag is super spacious and has multiple pockets.
• There is a separate ventilated side pocket for shoes.
• The 600D polyester fabric is extremely durable.
• It comes with sturdy padded handles and a detachable strap.
• There’s also a sleeve to fit onto bigger luggage.
• A two-year warranty backs it.
• The lack of a sturdy base tends to make the bag fold in the center when full.

Be it for camping, air travel, or road trips, REDCAMP 96 L Extra Large Duffle Bag is the right choice when looking for alternatives to the best collapsible suitcase. This foldable luggage bag is only 8 inches long when folded. So easy to carry and store! Yet, its 96 L volume also gives you the option to use it as your main luggage. That’s way bigger than most weekender bags for travel you can find.

Moreover, its material is water-resistant. So, you don’t have to worry about carrying this bag in drizzling rain when moving from one campsite to another. If somehow water seeps in or if you find any unexpected damage to this bag, you can always return it to REDCAMP and get a new one! This is as long as it’s under 365 days. Yep, this bag comes with a full-year warranty! Not a bad deal, isn’t it?

Dimensions: Folded 8 x 9 inches – Unfolded 31 x 12 x 16 inches

• The water-resistant allows you to carry the bag when raining.
• There are various choices of colors available.
• This bag is compact when folded, making it easy to carry and store.
• It’s backed by a one-year warranty.
• It has up to 96 L of capacity.
• As much as we love this bag, it’s not suitable for heavy loads as the handles aren’t made for heavy lifting.

The Narwey for Spirit Airlines Foldable Duffle Bag is ideal for carrying back your souvenirs. It’ll also serve you well as a personal item on a flight. It fits the personal item size of Spirit Airlines and Frontier Airlines. Not to mention, you can safely place it under the seat in front of you. The bag is spacious enough to fit your necessities if you choose to take it as under-seat travel luggage. Small items like travel documents can be stored in the external storage pocket.

This is one of the best foldable travel bags because of its thick water-resistant fabric and functionality. Many others agree with us, too, as the bag currently has more than 16,000 reviews on Amazon. You’re kind of spoilt for choice as well. That’s because this bag is available in a variety of colors. Meanwhile, the attached pouch into which the bag folds can slide over the handle of a trolley bag. Also, the sturdy straps and detachable shoulder strap make it easy to carry.

Dimensions: Folded 7.5 x 6.7 x 2.5 inches – Unfolded 17.7 x 12.6 x 6.3 inches

• It features a durable, water-resistant fabric.
• This bag also comes with sturdy reinforced straps plus a detachable shoulder strap.
• It has a bag strap.
• We love how it fits the new specifications of Spirit Airlines.
• This works well as a backup bag but would not hold up well as a regular travel bag.

Best Duffle Bag. Featherlight and versatile, this Paravel Foldable Travel Duffle Bag folds down into a compact little pouch that can be packed into your main luggage. It’s a great bag to take along for those last-minute souvenirs or gifts. We think this bag looks pretty good, too, with its contrasting straps. Because of this, it looks like it costs way more than it actually is! Not so bad, isn’t it?

Moreover, you have the option to use this foldable luggage bag over your shoulder or slide it over the handle of your rolling luggage. The smart trolley sleeve makes this possible. Also, we have to talk about the material. Made from lightweight, durable nylon with reinforced cotton webbing handles and sturdy zippers, you can be sure this one will stand up to the stress of travel.

Dimensions: Folded 9.75 x 8 x 2.75 inches – Unfolded 18 x 11 x 11.5 inches

• Though featherlight, this bag is surprisingly durable.
• It’s made from durable nylon.
• We love the durability of the reinforced cotton webbing handles.
• Unlike other cheap options, this bag comes with sturdy zips.
• The zippered slot could be a little narrow for sliding over certain handles.

Best Backpack. Those familiar with TUMI luggage know that it doesn’t come cheap. However, the luggage stands up really well for daily use or travel. So, if you’re looking to equip yourself with some of the best durable luggage , we recommend investing in TUMI. For women who love carrying a backpack on their travels, this TUMI Voyageur Just In Case Backpack will definitely win you over. It’s both stylish and practical with a few surprising features. For one, it comes with a convenient back sleeve that slides over rolling luggage, allowing you to juggle fewer bags.

In addition, this backpack can also be folded and stored in a tiny zipper pouch included with the purchase. Thus, you can transport it and access it easily! Though lightweight, this bag is surprisingly sturdy, and we love how big the main compartment is. Not to mention, the backpack straps are highly adjustable, too. Made from durable nylon with sturdy zippers, you can be sure that this backpack won’t go wrong. To know more about this item, check out findmeabackpack.com’s review !

Dimensions: Unfolded 15.5 x 12.3 x 4.5 inches

• It’s crafted from durable nylon.
• This backpack comes with extra sturdy zippers.
• It can easily fold into a small zipper pouch.
• Thanks to the sleeve, you can carry your belongings with only one hand.
• Some people think this backpack isn’t big enough.

All of the best foldable travel bags listed above are nothing short of impressive. Whether you’re into a foldable luggage bag or looking for the best collapsible suitcase, each of them will surely make your travel way more convenient. However, choosing only one can be a hassle, especially since all of them have different things to offer. To help you out, we’ve picked some of our favorites according to the following criteria:

• Best Backpack: TUMI Voyageur Just In Case Backpack
• Best Duffle Bag: Paravel Foldable Travel Duffle Bag
• Best Suitcase: Verage Foldable Luggage
• Best Brand: Samsonite Tote-A-Ton 32.5 Inch Duffel

How To Choose The Best Foldable Travel Bags

The first thing that you need to be aware of is what the luggage will be used for. Are you investing in a bag only for souvenirs, or will it be your main carry-on luggage? For someone looking out for a backup bag only for small knick-knacks, it would be best to pick up something durable yet light in the pocket. Look out for something voluminous yet stylish. On the other hand, if the foldable luggage will be a part of your main luggage, you need to note other factors.

Whatever your reasons for investing in a foldable travel bag, you want to be sure that it can fold down as promised. There’s no point in spending on something labeled ‘foldable’ only to realize that it doesn’t fold back once opened. If you’re going to invest in the best collapsible suitcase or collapsible luggage bag, check out the folded dimensions to know where to store it once you’re done with your travels.

The size you pick depends on what it will be used for. You don’t want to buy something too big or too small, even if it’s only going to be used as a backup. If this bag is going to be carried on luggage, make sure that you’re aware of specified airline dimensions.

Unless you’re looking out for a ‘use and throw’ foldable travel bag, you’ll want to invest in something durable. Good quality makes all the difference in how long a bag will last. Water and tear-resistant materials should top your list of what to look out for.  Bags made from ripstop nylon, high-denier polyester, Cordura, or ballistic nylon are the way to go. Look out for reinforced stitching and sturdy handles. Sturdy zippers are equally important as you don’t want your bag gaping open if the zipper breaks. Even with a souvenir bag, you want to make sure that the stitching is strong. Who wants the bag suddenly splitting open at the seams once it’s packed?

Style is a personal choice as this depends on individual preferences. Foldable travel bags are available in various styles, as enumerated above. If you prefer the grab-and-go option, then a foldable tote or duffel would be your best bet. However, if you’d rather have their hands free, you should look out for a foldable backpack. The advantage of investing in a fold-down suitcase or bigger bag is its flexibility. These bags can be opened up all the way to be used as check-in luggage or folded down to be taken as carry-on luggage. The biggest disadvantage with these bags is that your items are not easily accessible.

Even if you carry a foldable bag as a backup, don’t look for something cheaply made. There’s no point in buying a bag every few months. Pick something durable to stand up to the rigors of travel. You never know when that foldable bag will become a lifesaver. Imagine how terrible it would be if you bought a cheap bag only to have it rip apart on the very first use. Spend wisely so that luggage is the least of your problems when traveling.

The standard carry-on luggage allowed on a flight is 22  x  14  x  19 inches; the size differs from one airline to the next. Check the baggage policy of the airline you’re flying with to be sure. Below are the permitted carry-on luggage sizes of some popular airlines.

Personal items are generally much smaller than your regular luggage. These include purses, a tote or beach bag, a laptop bag, or a briefcase. Limit the size of your personal item if you want to avoid baggage fees. If you carry something too big, you may be charged for it. Strollers and diaper bags are also considered to be personal items by most airlines.

While investing in a foldable travel bag is unnecessary, it’s always good to carry one with you. A foldable bag will occupy a tiny space in your luggage. You can take it out later to carry your dirty laundry or pack your extra shopping. As regular luggage, these bags can be stowed easily after use.

You don’t want to compromise on the price of luggage of any kind. If you’re going to be using the foldable bag as luggage, don’t scrimp on the price. The price is irrelevant if the bag has the features you’re looking for and serves the purpose. However, it would be best to keep in mind that all luxury bags do not live up to the hype. A highly-priced bag may give out by the end of the trip. You’ll sometimes be surprised by how good the best budget luggage sometimes is.  We don’t recommend going overboard with the spending if the bag will only be used as a backup.

Author:  Julie Wharton

As a solo traveler, I have discovered the freedom and adventure that comes from exploring the world on your own terms. With a backpack on my back and a thirst for new experiences, I have journeyed to some of the most remote and fascinating destinations on the planet. As a travel blogger, I share my stories and insights with fellow solo travelers who are looking to break free from the constraints of group tours and package deals. Whether you're a seasoned backpacker or a first-time adventurer, my blog is dedicated to helping you plan your solo travels with confidence and ease. From tips on finding the best hostels to recommendations for off-the-beaten-path destinations, I provide a wealth of information that will help you make the most of your solo journey. And with a passion for photography and storytelling, I bring each destination to life through vivid imagery and captivating narratives. So if you're ready to embark on an adventure of a lifetime, join me on my journey and let's discover the world together.

• By Destination
• By Trip Type
• Luggage Expertise
• Packing Tips

• 1 Best Foldable Backpack
• 2 Best Foldable Bag for Shopping
• 3 Best Foldable Duffel
• 4 Best Foldable Luggage Bag
• 5 Best Foldable Nylon Tote Bag
• 6 Best Collapsible Travel Bag With Wheels
• 7 Best Foldable Luxury Bag
• 8 Best Foldable Toiletry Bag
• 9 Best Foldable Garment Bag

The Best Foldable Bags and Foldable Luggage That Are Perfect for Travel

"Oh, this? I bought it in a flea market in Paris ." If you're one of those people who come home from a trip with more stuff than you brought with you, welcome to our club. Shopping—ceramics from Japan , boots from Barcelona , a dress or four from Rio —is one of the joys of travel. But getting your loot home can be a challenge. If you like love to shop when you’re exploring a new place, then take this recommendation to heart: pack a piece of foldable luggage into your suitcase. That way, you can carry it to your destination for free and then fill it up and check it (or maybe even carry it on) on the return home. Another bonus—foldable luggage also takes up little storage room between shopping trips, we mean, vacations. Read on for nine of our top picks for foldable luggage, from foldable backpacks to luxury checked bags, for every trip. Then, go ahead and get your shop on.

See recent posts by Krystin Arneson

Best Foldable Backpack

Tumi voyageur just in case travel backpack.

Sleek and polished,  Tumi’s foldable travel backpack  is perfect for anyone who needs to hop between their day-to-day city routines to a trip abroad with ease. It holds a lot— a lot —more than you might expect for its compact size and 10-ounce weight. Although it still qualifies as a purse-size carry-on, you can fit your everyday handbag, lightweight jacket, and daily necessities, like a  water bottle , snacks , and a book, in it for your trek through the airport. Plus, the zip top opens really wide, so you can truly cram in all your goodies. Or, if you’re planning on filling it up with souvenirs for the way home, it folds up tightly into its own pouch for storage in your suitcase. Cleverly, that pouch can also double as a makeup bag . Don’t worry about getting the backpack dirty, either: the nylon material is easy to wipe clean.

Best Foldable Bag for Shopping

Beegreen reusable grocery bags set.

It’s hard to find a foldable bag for grocery runs or cruising European market stalls that really does the job. Sure, you’ve got all those free canvas totes you’ve picked up over the years, but they’re likely stained with mystery meat or veggie juice. BeeGreen’s reusable grocery bag set is made of ripstop polyester, which means you can wipe it clean—or, in the case of buying a very stinky French cheese, you can throw the bag in the washing machine. The five bags pack down to a tiny square that can fit in your pocket, so you can easily store it in your purse for those “Oh, I need to pick up…” epiphanies. Plus, the squared bottom keeps items in place and how cute is that polka dot print?

Best Foldable Duffel

Eagle creek packable duffel.

Eagle Creek is known for value-priced, durable luggage, and its Packable Duffel is a great example of just how much bang for your buck the brand can deliver. Although the design is pretty simple—a single 40-liter compartment accessed by a U-shaped zipper—you don’t need a lot of frills if all you’re looking for is an extra bag to tote your shopping haul. When the bag is folded down, you’ll see it take up less than 10 inches of space. Plus, the bag has a lifetime warranty—a sure sign of a company standing behind their product—so if something happens to go wrong, you know that you’ll be reimbursed. It’s a win-win!

RELATED: Luggage Brands That Stand Behind Their Gear: The Best Warranties and Return Policies

Best Foldable Luggage Bag

Eagle creek cargo hauler duffel 60l.

It’s surprising that a bag this large (60 liters!) could pack down so small, but that’s the brilliance of the Eagle Creek Hauler Duffle bag . It folds down right into its front compartment, which makes it easy to slip into a tight space in the closet when you’re back from your trip—or tuck in your suitcase for extra shopping while you’re abroad. There are plenty of other smart details packed into this compact case, too: The bottom is foam-padded (making it it extra-protective if you should happen to buy something lovely and breakable like ceramics), and it has doubled-up reinforcement where the bag’s most likely to take on some stress. If you really want to get adventurous, it even has lash points to attach to a roof rack on your next road trip (luckily, it’s water-repellant too).

RELATED: Which Eagle Creek Luggage Should You Get?

Best Foldable Nylon Tote Bag

Baggu standard reusable shopping bag.

Baggu makes some of the best foldable nylon tote bags of all time—in fact, they’re one of the companies that popularized the concept of reusable bags back in 2007. But Baggu isn’t all solid colors and one note. The company often collaborates with other designers to make artistic tote bags that stand out from the crowd—and, thanks to the design-driven aesthetic, look pretty polished on the street, too. Baggu’s collaboration with the Portland-based and beloved Pendleton brand is especially pretty with Native American-inspired patterns. The bag packs down into a six-by-six-inch pouch for easy carrying wherever you go, and if you’re in Portland , the first stop should definitely be Portland Saturday Market . No worries about seams bursting, either: Bags are built to hold up to 30 pounds, so shop away.

Best Collapsible Travel Bag With Wheels

Lipault paris 0% pliable foldable 2-wheeled 30′ duffel.

Lipault has a solid reputation for quality when it comes to luggage, and for many devotees of the brand, the Paris foldable rolling travel bag is a godsend. Not only does the Paris bag fold down, but it comes with its own storage case to reduce bangs and bumps. The two wheels allow you to move easily without weighing the bag down further—although it’s already quite lightweight at seven pounds. It also comes with a three-year guarantee, so the company will stand by the product if something goes awry. Just be careful of overpacking it—it’s so spacious that it’s tempting to risk violating some of the airlines’ weight restrictions .

RELATED: 9 Ways to Make Your Suitcase Stand Out at the Luggage Carousel

Best Foldable Luxury Bag

Longchamp le pliage expandable travel duffel nylon weekender.

Everyone knows about Longchamp’s iconic Le Pliage bags , but their Expandable Travel Duffle Weekender really shows off the magic Longchamp can pull off with nylon. The Weekender folds in from its full 20.5-inch length to a tidy 14-inch hang, and the construction means that it’s easy to roll up and store in your suitcase or at home in your closet when you don’t need it (although it’s pretty handy for the gym, too). The canvas strap clips on and off, and it’s long enough to use cross-body style to ease shoulder strain. Thanks to Longchamp’s legendary quality, it’s a bag that will last for years and shopping trips, to come.

Best Foldable Toiletry Bag

Eagle creek pack-it wallaby packing organizer.

This might not be the most glamorous toiletry bag on the market, but when it comes down to practicality—and, after all, that’s one of the most important things you should look for in luggage—there’s little that can beat Eagle Creek’s Pack-It Wallaby bag . Not only is it stain- and water-resistant (shampoo leaks are no fun) but it also has two zippered pockets, three slip pockets, and a handy swivel hook for hanging in hotel room or cruise ship bathrooms. Backpackers staying in hostels , where mirrors aren’t exactly plentiful, will appreciate that it includes a shatterproof mirror built right in. Plus, it’s made from a polyester micro-weave, meaning that this handy bag will hold up for trip after trip. Pro tip: wrap any delicate items you buy (like perfume or glass) in tissue paper and stash them in your toiletry bag, the additional padding will provide extra protection.

Best Foldable Garment Bag

Wallybags 45′ garment bag.

Garment bags have one job, and it’s to get your suits, shirts, and dresses wrinkle-free from point A to point B. The Slim Garment Bag by WallyBags hits that mark and then some. It attaches nicely to a carry-on bag, making it easy to haul through the airport, and when you get to your destination (or return home) there’s no need for special hangers. You can hang your suits up straight out of the bag, and then fold it in half again to store it when it’s not in use. Bonus: There are two zippered shoe pockets, plus an additional pocket for jewelry, pocket squares, or ties. It’s also lightweight, water repellant, and durable, thanks to its polyester construction and it cleans easily with a quick wipe. Try this garment bag once and it will be difficult to travel without it again.

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The 10 Best Foldable Travel Bags to Stash Just About Anywhere

Here are the best just-in-case bags to use on your next trip, including backpacks, totes, and more.

Whether you tend to pack light — and hate the idea of lugging around any more than necessary — or always seem to come back from vacation with more than you arrived with, foldable travel bags can come in quite handy. They typically don’t take up much space but the extra room they provide makes all the difference. The best ones come in an array of shapes, sizes, and silhouettes at any price point — which means options abound, depending on your specific needs and preferences. 

To help narrow things down, we’ve gathered testing insights for our favorite foldable travel bags, plus researched other top picks from brands like Calpak, Longchamp, Samsonite, and more. Our top picks combine fashion and function, while prioritizing key features like durability and portability at the same time. 

Best Overall: Paravel Fold-up Backpack

Buy at Amazon.com

Buy at Bloomingdales.com

Why We Love It

Made with water-resistant nylon, this lightweight backpack offers plenty of built-in organization, making it ideal for those on the go.

What to Consider

The soft material means that larger items can sag down or poke out noticeably.

If you’re looking to dip a toe into folding bags for travel, it’s hard to get more practical than the Paravel Fold-up Backpack. Whether you’re using it at your destination or as your in-flight personal item, it’s roomy enough to hold an extra pair of clothes, a 15-inch laptop, and more in the main compartment, plus small essentials such as chargers, a smartphone, and travel documents in the zippered front pouch. There's an interior zip pocket to keep smaller items separated and safe like keys or a wallet, as well. 

We’ve used this bag on our travels and as a personal item and love that the back pocket doubles as a luggage sleeve as needed. It’s also worth mentioning that its lightweight, water-resistant nylon material is made from 15 upcycled plastic bottles. 

When it’s time to unpack, just fold and zip the backpack up into itself — with no extra pouch (to lose). Coming in six colors including canyon yellow, safari red, and scuba navy (plus a mini version we’ve also tested and loved ), opt for personalized initial embroidery to add a custom touch to the shade of your choice.

Price at time of publish: $75

The Details: 13 x 16 x 9 inches (unfolded); 6 x 6.5 x 2.5 inches (folded) | 0.63 pounds | Nylon

Best Tote: Away The Packable Carryall

Buy at Awaytravel.com

It folds down very small compared to its size when open.

The nylon material is ultra-thin and the bag has minimal structure.

Coming in at 43 liters, Away’s Packable Carryall is spacious enough to hold pretty much all of your essentials, from clothes to books to a laptop. It weighs around half a pound and folds down to around 4 x 6 inches, making it a compact and lightweight secondary bag, too. With that in mind, we recommend packing this inside your main carry-on or checked bag to use as a backup personal item for souvenirs and other travel trinkets. While the carrying strap is thick, we did find the bag itself lacks the structure that would allow it to stand on its own (so, if you set it down with your items inside, they all melt toward the ground). On a similar note, although the built-in luggage sleeve can come in handy, you’d have to make sure to pack well — with weighty things in the middle — to keep the bag from slipping off your suitcase.

Despite how thin the recycled nylon construction (which comes in four colors) is, it does happen to be water-resistant, making it an excellent choice for the beach or pool. Alternatively, because it’s so spacious inside, it could also serve as an overnighter or weekender bag as part of a longer trip. 

The Details: 15 x 19.7 x 9 inches (unfolded); 6.3 x 4.3 x 2.4 inches (folded) | 8.8 ounces (with pouch), 8 ounces (without pouch) | Nylon

Best Expandable Bag: Longchamp Le Pliage Expandable Travel Bag

Buy at Nordstrom.com

This chic bag, which expands in height up to 20 inches, can be carried several ways, making it among the most versatile picks on this list. 

Overpackers may be burdened by how heavy it gets when stuffed with weighty items.

We’re big fans of the Longchamp Le Pliage Expandable Travel Bag for its ability to be expanded and contracted in a matter of seconds. Leather trimming adds extra flair whether you’re using it as a daily bag at its shorter 14-inch height, or fully expanded at 20.5 inches for a trip instead. In fact, our team has used the bag at both sizes on nearly every occasion: A three-week trip to Europe, weekend visits to the beach, strolling around on hot summer days, long road trips, plane rides, or as an everyday purse.  

This bag pulls double duty as both a handheld and hands-free bag thanks to top handles and a long adjustable strap (for crossbody or shoulder carrying instead). Meanwhile, the interior lining and zippered closure offer an extra sense of security, protecting against leaks and other mishaps. We found the nylon material incredibly easy to clean in the event of spilled water, coffee, or even food. We especially love how easy it is to use just about anytime since it folds up into a small square that can be thrown into another bag, perfect for trips where you return home with more than when you left. 

Price at time of publish: $265

The Details: 17.75 x 9 x 14-20.5 inches (unfolded) | 1.56 pounds | Nylon with leather details

Related: The 19 Best Luggage Pieces of 2023, According to T+L Editors

Best Belt Bag: Paravel Fold-Up Belt Bag

Buy at Shopbop.com

Buy at Tourparavel.com

This fold-up belt bag can be worn three different ways; plus, it’s made with recycled materials. 

It’s pretty small in size, so it’s really only ideal for those who travel light.

Whether you call them belt bags or fanny packs , there’s no denying this budget-friendly pick from Paravel is exceptional since it folds flat and zips into a discreet pouch. Despite its small size, this belt bag offers a zippered front pocket plus a main zippered compartment so you can store all of your essentials (think: credit cards, cash, a smartphone, earbuds, sunglasses, and even some snacks) within arm’s reach. We also love how the bag is crafted with recycled, water-resistant nylon and recycled zippers. All you need to do is adjust the strap to sling it over your shoulder, wear it crossbody, or buckle it around your waist. The bag comes in six colors and can be monogrammed for an additional $10. 

Price at time of publish: $35

The Details: 8 x 5 x 2 inches (unfolded); 5 x 3.75 x 1 inches (folded) | 5 ounces | Nylon

Best Backpack: Samsonite Foldable Backpack

Buy at Macys.com

This backpack can be folded up into a pouch that also serves as an interior pocket when it's open.  

It’s constructed with polyester, which may be less durable than nylon. 

Searching for the perfect carry-on backpack ? Look no further than the Samsonite Foldable Backpack. While suitable for everyday use, it’s especially convenient for travel thanks to its compact, functional, and lightweight construction (at less than half a pound!). The spacious main zippered compartment is perfect for storing souvenirs, while the exterior comes with one large zippered pocket and two side mesh pockets. After your trip, all you have to do is fold up the backpack and stick it inside the interior pouch, which, when in use, also doubles as an interior pocket. We’d be remiss not to mention the adjustable mesh shoulder straps for optimal comfort and support, too.

Price at time of publish: $38

The Details: 18.5 × 13 × 6 inches (unfolded); 5.5 x 6 x 1.5 inches (folded) | 7.4 ounces | Polyester

Best Suitcase: Rollink Flex 360 Carry-on Spinner Suitcase

Buy at Rollink.com

This collapsible carry-on is chock-full of functional features like spinner wheels and interior pockets.  

While the suitcase meets carry-on requirements for most major U.S. airlines, you may want to opt for the international carry-on size for those flights. 

The Rollink Flex 360° Carry-on Spinner Suitcase weighs just over six pounds and offers a durable, impact-resistant polycarbonate hard shell. However, what makes it stand out from a regular carry-on is the fact that it folds flat to just 5 inches thick (from 9 inches), so you can easily stow it in a closet or under the bed when not in use. Meanwhile, the interior has two slip pockets and one zippered compartment. Its smooth-gliding, 360-degree spinner wheels, built-in TSA lock, and adjustable telescopic handle are all bonuses. Select from eight colors, including bright yellow, warm gray, and rose pink. 

Price at time of publish: $249

The Details: 22 x 14  x 9 inches (unfolded); 22 x 14 x 5 (folded) | 6.2 pounds | Polycarbonate

Best Duffel: Tumi Voyageur Just in Case Duffel

This versatile duffel can be carried four different ways. 

The bag can feel flimsy if not filled completely. 

We’re huge fans of the Tumi Just in Case Duffel for its clever design — there are not one, not two, but four different ways to carry it: crossbody with one long strap, over-the-shoulder (with two medium-sized straps), by hand (with two additional two straps), and, lastly, hands-free (thanks to the sleeve, which slides onto your suitcase). Also, when fully open, the storage pouch actually snaps inside the duffel bag, serving as an extra interior pocket that’s roomy enough to store keys, a wallet, headphones, and other small but essential travel items. This is especially noteworthy because, in many cases, the folding bags’ storage case ends up 1) becoming wasted space and 2) is only too easy to lose. An additional front slip pocket also offers easy access to essentials such as your smartphone, ID, and boarding pass. 

Additionally, despite the bag’s seemingly compact size, it offers a surprising amount of storage space: In fact, we were able to fit four dresses, two shoes, a pair of pajamas, and a toiletry bag — with room to spare! Available in four colors, this foldable duffel is constructed with lightweight nylon, which is water- and stain-resistant. Shoppers also have the option to add embroidery for an extra-special personalized touch. 

Price at time of publish: $195

The Details: 10.3 x 18.9 x 10.3 inches (unfolded) | 1.1 pounds | Nylon 

Related: The 11 Best Travel Purses of 2023, Tested and Reviewed

Best Set: Calpak Compakt Bundle

Buy at Calpaktravel.com

With both a duffel and a tote bag, this two-piece set offers plenty of value and weighs in at just one pound total.  

Both items lack luggage sleeves. 

Available in 15 color and pattern options, the two-piece Calpak Compakt Bundle includes a duffel and matching tote bag, both of which collapse into themselves for space-saving storage. Together, both items clock in at just one pound, which means they won't weigh you — or your suitcase — down. The duffel offers several interior and exterior pockets for optimal organization, making it great for travel or commuting. The tote bag also features a crossbody strap for easy, hands-free carrying and works well for groceries, beach essentials, souvenirs, and pretty much everything in between. For longer trips, consider folding the tote into the duffel to be used as an everyday bag-slash-backup personal item for souvenirs while on the go. Each bag is constructed with water-resistant nylon. 

Price at time of publish: $91 for 2

The Details: 18 x 12 x 8 inches (duffel, unfolded); 21 x 20 x 6 inches (tote, unfolded) | 0.75 pounds (duffel); 0.25 pounds (tote) | Nylon

Best Oversized Weekender: Caraa Baby Hospital Bag

Buy at Caraa.co

Made of water-repellent cotton, this oversized bag can be carried as a backpack or tote thanks to its long cushy straps. 

At nearly $300, this foldable bag isn’t exactly a bargain.

Don’t be fooled by its name: The Caraa Baby Hospital Bag is so much more than a hospital bag — in fact, this chic foldable bag is especially ideal for travel. The ultra-spacious bag is outfitted with several compartments, including a zippered interior pocket for magazines and other in-flight reading materials and two zippered side pockets that are roomy enough to hold shoes, water bottles, tablets, and more. The interior also feature a water-repellent cotton lining to protect your belongings from accidental spillage. 

Travelers can carry the bag by the straps, which feature a fashionable bow detailing. It’s also worth mentioning that the straps are long enough for the bag to be worn as a backpack or carried like a tote bag. When not in use, simply roll, fold, and stash the bag away in the corresponding pouch. Oh, and did we mention it’s constructed with water-repellent cotton and machine-washable, too?

Price at time of publish: $278

The Details: 12 x 24 x 14 inches (unfolded) | 2.2 pounds | Cotton

Best Budget: Baggu Standard Baggu Nylon Ripstop Tote

Buy at Baggu.com

This machine-washable reusable tote can hold up to 50 pounds. 

There are no zippers. 

Baggu’s signature reusable tote is a fan favorite for its ultra-lightweight construction, and affordable price. A compact design, which folds into the corresponding pouch for convenient storage, is an added bonus. Despite the fact that it weighs less than 2 ounces, this one-of-a-kind bag is sturdy enough to hold up to 50 pounds. It’s also machine-washable and made with recycled nylon. Lastly, the durable bag is available in 20 colors and patterns to suit anyone’s style preferences from pistachio green to a raspberry print. 

Price at time of publish: $14

The Details: 25.5 x 15.5 × 6 inches (unfolded); 5 x 5 inches (folded) | 1.9 ounces | Nylon

Tips for Buying Foldable Travel Bags

Decide how much space you need.

While shopping for folding travel bags, it’s important to consider how much room you’ll need for gear and other essentials. For example, if you want it for everyday use, you’ll want to prioritize a smaller bag you can easily carry as backup. If you tend to take a fair amount of shorter weekend trips, you likely won’t need a large piece of luggage. Instead, you can probably get away with a duffel bag , travel backpack , or even a large tote . On the other hand, if you often embark on longer trips, buying a larger bag, like a compressible checked suitcase, is a good idea.

Consider how compact the bag gets

As you narrow down your top picks for foldable travel bags, you’ll want to take into account how compact they actually get — because, in this case, size truly does matter. Can the bag fold small enough to fit in your pocket or purse, like the Paravel Belt Bag? If it’s a bulkier piece, such as a rolling suitcase, make sure it can fold flat for easy storage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I put in a foldable travel bag?

Foldable bags function the same way as standard bags, except they’re even more convenient for travel. Put simply, what you can fit inside all depends on the size and type of foldable travel bag you’ve purchased. The folded bags can be carried inside another day bag while at your destination, and used for souvenirs, groceries, and other purchases. For fuss-free organization, consider snagging one equipped with built-in zippered or slip pockets to maximize space. 

Can a foldable travel bag be a carry-on or personal item?

Foldable travel bags come in an array of shapes and sizes. With this in mind, it’s worth flagging that foldable travel bags can serve as a carry-on or personal item , depending on the specific one you’ve purchased. Just keep in mind that in order for your foldable travel bag to count as a personal item (as opposed to a carry-on) it has to fit underneath the seat in front of you. As always, check with your carrier before bringing it onboard.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this article, T+L contributor Lauren Dana Ellman used her personal experience as a freelance travel writer and editor to choose the very best foldable bags for every type of trip. 

Related: The 14 Best Crossbody Bags to Bring on Your Next Trip

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7 Fold-Up Bags for Bringing All Your Souvenirs Home

By Megan Spurrell

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.

For any serious shopper, there’s one rock-and-a-hard-place scenario that is all too familiar: You’re halfway around the world, staring down irresistible souvenirs, and you know your suitcase can’t possibly accommodate one more thing. We're here to tell you that it doesn't have to be that way. Next time, rather than leaving behind that perfect pair of Morrocan babouches or Santa Fe-style table runner , plan ahead. Pack a collapsible bag that takes up no room in your suitcase but can be expanded for the trip home, and come back with every single souvenir your heart desires. (Well, everything you can fit in your bag, that is.) Keep reading for a few of our favorites.

All products featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission .

Baggu Travel Cloud Bag

Baggu has long been our go-to for wallet-friendly, space-saving bags , and the Travel Cloud bag is one of their largest. Expanded, it's a durable weekender-size bag , but it folds up into a detachable pouch the size of an iPad when not in use. And, like all Baggu items, it comes in fun colors like “chartreuse” and “cranberry” to help it stand out in a sea of black nylon. Even though the expanded size is technically larger than most carry-on dimensions—it clocks in at 17" × 25" × 9 ¾" (and standard carry-on size is 22” x 14” x 9”)—its amorphous body means you can still cram it into the carry-on bin, even when it’s stuffed to the brim.

Buy now: Baggu Cloud Bag, $52 at baggu.com

Paravel Fold-Up Bag

This isn’t the first time we’ve waxed poetic about Paravel ’s handy fold-up duffel. When expanded, this bag is a super practical duffel that has interior zip pockets, openings to slide over your carry-on handle, and a little old school flair thanks to the retro striped straps. When you don't need it, the bag can be zipped neatly into itself, creating a compact, book-sized pouch. It comes in classic colors like blue, black, and olive, and the nylon material has just a touch of sheen that makes it feel beyond its $65 price tag.

Buy now: Paravel Fold-Up Bag, $65 at paravel.com

Longchamp Le Pliage Tote Bag

Longchamp’s oversized tote is the OG collapsable bag—it's been around since the nineties, and it's amassed a robust worldwide following since . The large Le Pliage is roomier than most carry-on totes, but it’s versatile enough that you can use it at home on an everyday basis, making the extra addition to your luggage collection even easier to justify. We love the classic colors like the black, olive, and navy, but there are plenty of other options in case you want to coordinate with the rest of your luggage.

Buy now: Longchamp Le Pliage Tote Bag, $145 at nordstrom.com

SportSac Classic Weekender Bag

For a bag that’s both playful yet totally unfussy, LeSportSac delivers, and the current color selections for the classic weekender are chef’s kiss (just check out the Aruba colorblock, which comes in pastel and primary color renditions). This super lightweight weekender is made of ripstop nylon, meaning it’s durable enough to hold all your new goods and can handle being knocked around in the overheard. It isn’t designed to be folded up per se but at just 21 ounces it’s easy to flatten and fold on your own, so you can stuff it into your suitcase just the same.

Jamie Spain

Ashlea Halpern

Kaitlyn McInnis

Sarah James

Buy now: LeSportSac Classic Weekender Bag, $125 at urbanoutfitters.com

Northface Flyweight Duffel

For pragmatic types, Northface’s Flyweight duffel is a no-brainer: It weighs in at just 7 ounces, tucks into a tiny pouch that fits in your hands, and has a lifetime guarantee because, well, it’s The North Face and they don’t scrimp on quality. This bag is on the smaller side as far as duffels go, so while it might not be able to carry that giant Oaxacan tapestry you’re eyeing, you’ll know that more delicate trinkets, like handmade ornaments and breakable figurines, won’t be jostling around inside. Plus, it has three different types of straps so you can carry it by the handles, over your shoulder, or as a backpack.

Buy now: Northface Flyweight Duffel, $45 at zappos.com

Paravel Stowaway Bag

If Paravel's fold-up bag still isn't enough for your haul, Paravel’s Stowaway is the bag to have. This retro suitcase (which meets TSA carry-on requirements, by the way), comes in cheery color schemes and can be personalized with your initials right across the front. When expanded, its lean body means you won't have any clunky wheels or a handle cutting into precious cargo room inside. It smartly folds up like a clutch, and though it won’t be teensy tiny, the lay flat profile makes it easy to tuck in at the bottom or side of your bag.

Buy now: Paravel Stowaway Bag, $325 at paravel.com

Herschel Packable Duffle

You want options? You got ‘em. Herschel’s collapsible duffel comes in twenty-eight different colors and nearly all of them sell for just $30 (three of the reflective tri-color options are $50). You can go pastel, totally subtle with a neutral, or big and bold with a floral or camo print. The bag itself is made of lightweight ripstop nylon, so it’ll still feel light when expanded, but the long woven straps make it sturdy enough to hold your stuff. Of course, the whole thing folds into its own inner pocket for easy storage and packing so you can keep it in your carry-on for every trip.

Buy now: Herschel Packable Duffle, $30 at amazon.com

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The Wandf Foldable Travel Duffel Bag Is Voted Best for Multipurpose Trips

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The Wandf is a surprising winner in the world of travel duffles. Find out why our readers absolutely love this easy-to-use bag in the review below! 

Wandf Foldable Duffle Bag Review

Table of contents.

The Wandf foldable travel duffel is a go-to for so many TFG readers, both as a weekend bag and as a carry-on or an extra bag for longer trips to haul things like gifts, souvenirs, or even dirty laundry! With its super low price point but incredibly durable and amazing features, this bag is a real winner. Learn more about why the Wandf is so popular with our readers in this review! 

Wandf Foldable Travel Duffel Bag 40L in Grey

Wandf Duffle Bag Specs

Brand and Style: Wandf Foldable Travel Duffel Bag  

Dimensions and Weight: 20”, 40L capacity, carry-on compliant, and weighs a mere 10.6 ounces (Other sizes available include 16”/20L , 18”/30L , 20”/50L , 22”/50L , 24”/60L ,  28”/80L , 32”/100L , and 36”/120L )

Fabric: Water-resistant and tear-resistant ripstop nylon

Features: Durable, strong zippers, lightweight, trolley sleeve, handy outer pocket, and multiple ways to carry it

Colors: Comes in a very wide range of over 20+ colors and patterns! Options include black, gray, blue, green, pink, yellow, floral patterns, and much more 

Travel Type: Great for any type of travel. Can be used as a carry-on for longer trips or as a weekender bag for shorter trips. Also excellent as a secondary bag to carry souvenirs, extra clothes or more!

Also, if helpful to you, here’s a breakdown of all the Wandf duffles I own and what purposes I use each for:

• 40L / 20” Wandf duffle in Grey – Carryon size but not most practical for international travel when maximizing baggage allowance is crucial
• 50L / 22” Wandf duffle in Blue – Slightly larger than 40L, technically could still work as carryon with the risk of being oversized, ideal as a weekender or for road trips, but again, too small for my international moves
• 80L Wandf duffle in Grey – My favorite option for checked bags to transport items in international moves

Wandf Duffel Bag Features

Wandf Foldable Travel Duffel Bag 40L in Navy

Size and Material 

The Wandf is a popular lightweight, packable duffle bag that many readers recommend. I’ve tried out various packable duffles over the past year due to my many international moves, and after trying this Wandf bag, it’s now my absolute favorite! This awesome duffle is made from water-resistant and tear-resistant nylon fabric and has really strong, good-quality zippers. 

I’ve bought their duffles in 40L , 50L , and 80L and was very pleased with their durability for the price!

The standard carry-on size for the Wandf is 20” with a 40L capacity , so it can fit in the overhead compartment of virtually any airline. And what’s awesome about this bag is it comes in other sizes, depending on how you want to use it. Refer to the specs section above where all the sizes are listed. There’s also a Wandf toiletry bag option! 

Packing cubes  help you organize and maximize your space!

The Wandf Duffle Bag 40L size can fit in overhead bins! 

If you wanted a duffle to fit under the seat, readers recommend buying the Wandf 16”/20L or the 18”/30L sizes. As for how wonderful these are? One traveler puts it simply: “This is a great bag. It holds a ton of stuff, way more than I expected. It is so cute!”

Another reviewer shares, “The quality and workmanship of the bag are much better than expected. I was able to pack two stacks of folded jeans side by side within the bag. When I returned home, I ordered two additional copies in different colors.” 

Using 80L Wandf Duffles transporting sheets, towels, and other items fr om the USA to El Salvador for my new beachfront Airbnb !

Storage and Organization

I’d first purchased one of these duffles for my move from England to Playa del Carmen last year because I needed lightweight luggage with maximum space so I could transport as much of my belongings as possible on one trip. It ended up being one of my best luggage purchases ever and I’ve since gotten several more sizes to accommodate my continuous moves. 

With a 40L capacity , this carry-on size provides ample packing space. Because of its incredibly durable material, you can stuff this bag as full as you need to, and it will definitely hold up! The outer pocket allows for easy access to essential items, and the strong zipper keeps everything safely secured. Readers have shared that they have used this bag over and over on their travels and it has stayed in great condition.

For the purpose of moving internationally, the 80L is perfect as the maximum size for checked luggage with American Airlines, my preferred airline when traveling in North America. While a 100L could work, I don’t want to risk being told I have an oversized bag thus risking a hefty baggage fee.

One traveler shares their experience, “This is a very lightweight duffle (and is advertised as such), but we filled it with miscellaneous stuff and had no problems with durability or portability. I was impressed that the side pocket was as well-constructed as it was, and folding and unfolding it is very easy.” 

If you need the  best packable tote , read our list!

Example of how the Wandf Duffel  packs in a suitcase when not used

Packability

With strategic planning and a few packing cubes , you’ll be able to fit a surprising amount of stuff into the Wandf carry-on duffle . And another reason this bag is so great is that it can fold up into itself and take up almost no room in your luggage! For this reason, readers love to use this bag as either a backup bag or a spare bag to fill with gifts or souvenirs from their travels to take back home. 

One reader shares, “Someone from here turned me onto the duffle… as I only plan to carry on for my trip, I plan to check on the way home as there’s no way I’ll be able to avoid goodies in Italy . This bag unfolds into a duffle and I’m impressed with the quality. Also, I like the slit in the back to attach to my suitcase.”

Each duffle has organizational pockets outside and also comes with a shoe and laundry compartment (that is if you don’t want to use the main compartment for it!). 

Step by step instructions on how to fold the Wandf bag can be found on the Amazon listing , and are super simple! 

Convenient trolley sleeve on the Wandf Duffel

Extra Features

One of the best features of the Wandf duffle is the trolley sleeve, which allows you to zip around the airport with ease. It’s so easy to carry, whether you have it strapped snugly to your suitcase, or are holding it on its own. It has stitched grip handles that readers say are incredibly strong, even when their bags are packed very heavy. 

The adjustable shoulder strap allows for a comfortable fit, too. The easy carrying of this duffle makes a huge difference when traveling. And many sizes have a shoe compartment, if you’re using it for a weekend trip, such as the 40L or a longer, robust trip, then the 80L also has a shoe sleeve!

The incredibly wide range of colors allows you to pick an option that you love and makes it easy to quickly find your bag on the go. Aside from having almost every color you could want, there are also really cute floral patterns, stripe patterns, and even animal patterns. 

It’s definitely a multi-purpose bag. It’s perfect for any kind of travel, whether it be a weekend away or a longer trip to a far-away destination. One reader says, “We were just in Paris in November and I packed carry on but used this packable duffle for my shopping to return home with. It worked out perfectly and the bag was fantastic!” 

Looking for new luggage? See  expert recommendations !

Handy side pocket of Wandf Duffle Bag 40L in Denim Grey

Pros and Cons

For the $18 price point, the Wandf duffel bag is honestly a steal! The quality and sturdiness are amazing for the cost. The wide range of colors and other size options are awesome, too. 

Readers appreciate how comfortable it is to carry and stow in an airplane, and the ability for it to be folded compactly. The fact that it can be folded and easily stored away when it’s not in use is a huge plus. It’s easy to take with you on any trip and will definitely come in handy for those times when you can’t resist all those souvenirs! 

One happy user says, “ The material is light but feels sturdy, the zipper is good quality, it takes up no space or weight when folded and fits a ton when open! We were careful not to put sharp or too hard objects as its shape adjusts to the contents but it handled the weight easily. The various handles make it comfortable to carry on top of your suitcase handle, on your shoulders or in your hands. ” 

Various ways to hold and use the Wandf Duffle

While this bag can certainly hold a lot, some Wandf owners have reported that if it gets too heavy, it can be hard to carry, and may even tip your suitcase over if the weight is not evenly distributed when using the trolley sleeve. The straps might also be a little bit uncomfortable if the bag is quite heavy and you plan on carrying it over your shoulder. 

Another thing to note is that because the material is lightweight and not super thick, some wearers have mentioned that the bag doesn’t always hold its shape very well, especially if it’s not fully packed. However, with strategic packing and making sure the bag isn’t extremely heavy, these issues shouldn’t be a huge problem. 

Most owners of the Wandf foldable travel duffle typically report that it’s no-fuss and comfortable to travel with, and makes traveling so much easier—it’s a viable trip companion for anything extra you may have planned!

Read how to choose the best  travel purse !

50L Wandf Foldable Travel Duffle Bag and Delsey Turenne Carryon to transport home items from USA to Mexico

After putting the Wandf travel duffel to the test on an international move and using various sizes to transport home goods or extra items, as well as using it on many other travels, Wandf wins as my preferred brand 100%! It has become my go-to. Readers agree that this duffle is an awesome travel bag, and constantly recommend it! 

It’s so lightweight while being waterproof, durable, and tear-resistant. It’s ideal for bringing along on any travel adventure. I also like there’s the option of other sizes, so there’s something for any type of trip you have planned. While some users feel it can lose shape when there isn’t a lot packed inside it, others say the key is to strategically pack, and voila, you’ll be set! 

Overall, for the super low price point and great quality, you really can’t go wrong with the Wandf foldable travel duffel bag . I can’t rave about it enough and TFG readers agree! 

40L Wandf Foldable Travel Duffel Bag as underseat carryon bag

Where to Buy the Wandf Duffel Bag

This highly popular bag and all its iterations are available on Amazon . Believe me, you won’t stop at purchasing just one! 

What’s been your experience with the Wandf foldable travel duffle bags? Share your own review below!

For more travel bags, please read:

• What are the Best Travel Bags with Trolley Sleeve?
• Best Under Seat Luggage and How to Pack with Minimal Space
• Best Duffle Bag for Travel: Enhance Your Luggage Options
• Delsey Turenne Carry On Review: Learn Why Travelers Love It

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The 11 Best Packable Backpacks of 2024

The Bellroy Lite Daypack is our favorite.

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Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

Since you don't always know what you'll need to carry, whether you'll want to throw on an extra layer, or what you'll end up buying, it's nice to have a packable bag on hand when traveling. These satchels come in handy when sightseeing, hiking, wandering around theme parks, going to music festivals, and really any time you have a long day ahead that might be slightly unpredictable.

Our favorite packable backpack is the Bellroy Lite Daypack, a 20-liter bag with multiple pockets, a water bottle sleeve, a sunglasses pouch, and padded shoulder straps. But to help you find the perfect option for your needs, we rounded up several worth considering. Scroll down for the best packable backpacks on the market.

Best Overall

Bellroy lite daypack.

Made of recycled plastic bottles, this all-star bag boasts ample organizational features and a comfy design that won't hold you back.

It doesn't fold into a pocket or pouch.

If we could only pick one packable backpack, we'd go with Bellroy's Lite Daypack. This supremely practical, endlessly functional bag folds or rolls up compactly, but when you open it up, it has a generous 20-liter capacity. It's big enough to fit a change of clothes, a rain jacket, a hat, a tablet, extra chargers, snacks, you name it.

Inside, you'll find various organizational features. We're talking a zippered pocket, a stretchy water bottle holder, a document sleeve, and a water-protected sunglasses pocket. What's more, there are multiple exterior loops for clipping extra gear, plus an "essentials pocket" with a key clip.

We also like that the ripstop fabric is sourced from recycled plastic bottles. But is this backpack comfortable? You bet! Thanks to the padded back panel, cushioned shoulder straps, and adjustable chest clip, the comfy design won't hold you back on your next adventure and makes a worthwhile addition to your Ireland pack list .

The Details: 19 x 10.5 x 7 inches (open) | 0.8 pounds | 20 liters | Ripstop fabric

Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

Best for Sightseeing

Eagle creek packable backpack 20l.

Eagle Creek

It can hold souvenirs, a water bottle, your wallet, a spare charger, and anything else you need while out and about.

The shoulder straps aren't padded, so you may not want to fill it with heavy items.

This packable backpack is perfect for guided sightseeing tours or anytime you're exploring a new city by foot. In addition to offering plenty of space for picking up souvenirs while out and about, it has a side zipper pocket with key clips, a mesh water bottle pouch, and a security loop to help prevent pickpocketing.

We like that it's made of ultra-durable ripstop polyester and is treated with an antimicrobial agent to keep odor-causing bacteria at bay. Weighing less than half a pound, this is also one of the lightest options we found.

The Details: 18.5 x 10.5 x 5.5 inches (open) | 7.5 x 5 x 2.5 inches (packed) | 0.4 pounds | 20 liters | Recycled ripstop polyester

Best for Air Travel

Away the packable backpack.

It qualifies as a "personal item," fits under the seat in front of you, and has a trolley sleeve on the back.

There's only one interior pocket.

Traveling by plane? This packable backpack from Away has your name on it. With a 19-liter capacity, it can fit everything from a jacket and a laptop to snacks and a water bottle while still passing as a "personal item" that easily fits underneath the seat in front of you.

We love that it has a trolley sleeve on the back, allowing you to slide it over the handle of your suitcase. And when you don't need it, the backpack folds into a little zippered pouch for easy storage.

The Details: 18 x 11 x 6 inches (open) | 7 x 4.5 x 2.5 inches (packed) | 0.5 pounds | 19 liters | Recycled nylon

Best for Hikes

L.l.bean stowaway day pack.

This adventure-ready pack has lots of features that help you stay organized and comfortable on the trails.

At nearly one pound, it's a little heavier than other packable designs.

Looking for something for hiking or other outdoor excursions? L.L.Bean's Stowaway Pack might be your best bet. It has a surprisingly spacious 22-liter capacity and stuffs effortlessly into the included compact zipper pouch.

The adventure-ready design has lots of organizational pockets, two water bottle sleeves on the sides, and a binky loop for attaching a safety light. With a breathable mesh back panel, padded shoulder straps, an adjustable waist belt, and a chest strap, it's also incredibly comfortable and supportive. While it won't replace your main backpacking pack , it would make a practical (and easy) addition to your trip.

The Details: 19 x 10 x 7 inches open | 0.9 pounds | 22 liters | Recycled ripstop polyester

Best for Festivals

Herschel packable daypack.

It's big enough to hold all the essentials, plus a light jacket, and comes in several cool, whimsical prints.

This backpack isn't billed as water-resistant.

You'll be glad to have this packable backpack with you at the next music festival you attend. It folds up into an internal self-storage pocket for compact transport, then when you need it, it unfolds into a spacious 24.5-liter carrier.

The main compartment is big enough to hold a light jacket, a hat, a water bottle, a camera, sunscreen, sunglasses, a phone charger, band merchandise, and then some. We also like that it comes in a range of cool, whimsy prints, like floral, camo, marble, and dye wash.

The Details: 18 x 12.5 x 5 inches (open) | 0.4 pounds | 24.5 liters | Ripstop polyester

Best for Theme Parks

Paravel fold-up backpack.

Bloomingdale's

This durable, functional bag has plenty of room for a change of clothes, an extra coat, a camera, a water bottle, and more.

It’s monogrammable… for an extra fee.

If you're heading to Disneyland , Universal Studios, or another amusement park , we recommend bringing this bag along. Paravel's lightweight Fold-up Backpack can fit a surprising amount of stuff, including a change of clothes, a water bottle, a coat, a hat, a camera, and even a 15-inch laptop.

It folds up flat and zips into the included pouch that takes up almost no room in a suitcase or larger bag. You can also slide it over your suitcase handle with the trolley sleeve on the back. Another reason to love this backpack? It's made of durable, water-resistant nylon sourced from recycled plastic bottles.

The Details: 16 x 13 x 9 inches (open) | 6.5 x 6 x 2.5 inches (packed) | 0.6 pounds | Nylon

Best Drawstring

Cotopaxi drawstring backpack.

With multiple pockets and a daisy chain, the Tago Pack is an updated take on the classic drawstring bag.

The straps aren't supportive, so you won't want to carry anything too heavy.

The drawstring bag is the original packable backpack, and we love Cotopaxi's slightly updated take on the classic, versatile design. The Tago Pack has traditional thin, corded straps, top carry handles, and pockets in the front and back for your phone and other small essentials you want accessible.

Made of recycled nylon, this simple yet functional bag rolls or folds almost entirely flat when you want to tuck it away. And the bright, multicolored design makes a striking statement while allowing you to easily locate it at all times.

The Details: 9 x 13 inches (open) | 0.4 pounds | Recycled nylon

Best Lightweight

Osprey ultralight dry stuff pack.

The Ultralight Pack weighs less than half a pound and stuffs into a super-compact storage pocket.

You might need to watch the video to figure out how to stuff it into the pocket.

At less than half a pound, the Osprey Ultralight Pack is one of the lightest-weight packable backpacks we found. The unfolded configuration boasts a 20-liter capacity, but when you want it out of the way, it stuffs into a super-compact, built-in storage pocket.

In addition to a sizable main compartment, there's an exterior zippered pocket for stashing smaller items. This outdoor-friendly backpack is made of waterproof ripstop nylon and has water-tight seams to prevent the contents from getting wet.

The Details: 18 x 10 x 8.5 inches (open) | 0.4 pounds | 20 liters | Ripstop nylon

Best Waterproof

Matador on-grid packable backpack.

This bag is made of extra-strong Robic nylon with a thermoplastic coating and features weather-protected zippers.

It only comes in one color and has a small-ish capacity.

Looking for a waterproof design? The On-grid Backpack is an excellent choice. It's made of Robic nylon — a rugged material with notably high tensile strength — and features a polyurethane (thermoplastic) coating that repels liquids and prevents water from getting inside. Not only that, but weather-protected zippers offer an extra layer of defense against moisture damage.

This bag has multiple organization pockets, two expandable water bottle pouches, and a small pocket where it stuffs into itself for travel. While the overall capacity is on the smaller side, it has a laptop sleeve that fits computers up to 16 inches.

The Details: 17.5 x 10.5 x 8.5 inches (open) | 6.5 x 6 x 2.5 inches (packed) | 0.5 pounds | 16 liters | Waterproof nylon

Tumi Voyageur Travel Backpack

Available in several chic hues, this backpack is not only functional and versatile but also supremely stylish.

The price is pretty steep for a packable backpack.

Packable bags often prioritize function over aesthetics, but with Tumi, you don't have to choose one or the other. The brand's best-selling Just In Case Backpack comes in several chic colors ranging from soft lilac to misty sage to classic black with gold zippers.

It has a spacious main compartment, a front zip pocket, an upper grab handle, and a trolley sleeve for sliding it over your suitcase handle. Not sure when you'll need it? This carrier folds entirely flat into its included zipper pouch for easy packing and transport.  

The Details: 15.5 x 12.5 x 4.5 inches (open) | 0.6 pounds | 15 liters | Nylon

Best Rugged

Patagonia ultralight black hole tote.

This packable backpack-tote hybrid is lightweight, durable, and water-resistant.

… but it’s not waterproof.

Need something more rugged for outdoor adventures ? Check out Patagonia's Black Hole Tote. Made of recycled ripstop nylon with a thermoplastic coating, it's lightweight yet durable and water-resistant.

This conveniently packable bag has lots of organizational features, including multiple pockets and two stretchy water bottle pouches. You can carry it like a backpack or use it as a tote and tuck the mesh harness away when it's not in use. With a 27-liter capacity, this is also one of the largest packable backpacks on our list.

The Details: 15.5 x 10.5 x 8 inches (open) | 0.8 pounds | 27 liters | Recycled ripstop nylon

Tips for Buying a Packable Backpack

Prioritize lightweight and durable materials.

The best packable backpacks are made of durable yet lightweight materials, such as ripstop nylon or polyester. These synthetic fabrics resist tearing and moisture damage while standing up to daily wear and tear. If you need something for outdoor use, look for a bag with a water-repellent coating that prevents liquids from getting inside.

Consider your organizational and capacity needs

You'll also want to consider what you need in terms of organizational features and overall capacity. When unfolded, most packable backpacks have capacities ranging from 16 to 24 liters, which is about average for a day pack but slightly smaller than a standard backpack. Beyond a main compartment that can fit larger items, you may want a few smaller pockets, pouches, and sleeves for things like your wallet, phone, chargers, a laptop, or a water bottle.

Decide when, where, and how you'll use it

When browsing options, think about when, where, and how you'll be using your backpack. Do you plan to keep it inside a purse when it's not in use? Look for something with an ultra-compact stuff sack. Will you be going on a winter hike or exploring a rainy city? Opt for a water-resistant material. Are you traveling by plane? Look for a bag with a trolley sleeve that'll fit under the seat in front of you.

At the risk of stating the obvious, the main difference between packable backpacks and regular backpacks is that the former are designed to fold, roll, or stuff into a compact configuration. Like packable jackets , many come with little pouches you can stuff them into. This type of bag is also often slightly smaller than a standard backpack and may have fewer organizational features.

Absolutely! Like any backpack, the packable variety can be used as a carry-on bag for air travel as long as it fits into the overhead compartment, which won't be an issue in most cases. To qualify as a personal item, it just needs to fit under the seat in front of you on the plane.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

T+L editor Theresa Holland is a seasoned commerce writer specializing in luggage, packable apparel, and other travel essentials. For this story, she researched today's best packable backpacks, narrowing it down to the most functional, versatile designs with standout features.

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