best travel dive bags

7 Best Dive Bags Reviewed (2023 Edition)

Written and Reviewed By

Divemaster Alex Lowe
Last Updated: September 27, 2023

A reliable scuba diving bag is an essential accessory for any avid diver looking to keep their gear organized, protected, and ready for underwater expeditions.

They also make it easy to transport your gear via a plane or just down the road.

Based upon my experience as a PADI Divemaster working in Floridas scuba diving industry, as well as my journey hitting scuba diving sites around the world (Bali, Costa Rica, Bahamas), I’ve compiled a list of the seven best scuba diving bags .

During the selection process, I focused on key factors including:

Size and capacity to accommodate all your gear
Durability and water resistance
Organization compartments and accessibility
Comfortable carrying options, such as backpack or roller style
Reinforced construction and protective padding
Brand reputation and customer reviews
And much more!

In the upcoming sections, we will dive straight into my expert reviews, followed bt a detailed buying guide.

Lastly, we’ll address frequently asked questions to assist you in making an informed purchasing decision.

Best scuba dive bags.

Best Roller Bag: Cressi Moby 5
Best Mesh Backpack Bag: Armor Cartini
Best Regulator Bag: ScubaPro Reg Tech Bag
Best Dry Bag: HEETA Dry bag
Best Carry On Bag: Tilos Total Eclipse
Best Spearfishing and Freediving Bag: Beuchat Mundial 2

The wheels and telescoping handle make it ideal for airports
Replaceable wheels
Side pocket for fins
While lightweight a roller bag still weighs over 10 pounds.
The inside separator does not collapse.
Wearing as a backpack can be uncomfortable.

Roller dive bags are great and the most popular for traveling divers. They usually have a telescoping handle, wheels, and straps to carry like typical roller luggage.

Even when these are fully loaded, you can maneuver them around and are more durable than regular luggage.

The other advantage is that you can store other types of bags inside like a mesh bag, backpack, and even dry bags for when you arrive at your designation.

This bag is a very lightweight fabric and is able to hold up to 2 full sets of gear including wetsuits and still is under the weight limit for most airlines It was built for traveling and diving with access to your gear on three different sides and has two large front pockets as well.

The wheels and handle make it easy to the wheel but if you need to the bag has two straps that can be worn as a backpack or carried.

Product Specs

Ventilation : No
Material : Denier fabric
Weight : 10.6lb
Design/Style : Rollerbag
Padding : Yes
Dimensions : 30 in x 5.7 in x 11 in

Another option that you have is a duffel dive bag. These bags usually have several compartments and a large zip area where you can keep most of the big pieces of dive gear.

It is simple, easy to use, and has very few things that can break. They are good for both international and local travel because of their durability, but you will have to carry them around though as they don’t have wheels.

Having one with dry, wet, and waterproof compartments is also something to look out for. Using one of these to get to the destination then a mesh bag for shorter trips is handy.

Easily transported on back
Looks great
Very fairly priced
Extremely durable
Can be hard to place BCD inside

Next up on the list, is the Armor Cartini Mesh backpack dive bag. For divers that like to place the weight of their scuba gear on their backs, this could be the perfect bag for you. However, for divers with less gear, and a lighter setup, this could be a bit of overkill. There’s really just one main compartment on the bag, so finding things inside can be a bit of a challenge when it’s full.

Product Specs:

Ventilation : Yes
Material : Mega Mesh
Weight : 3lbs
Design/Style : Mesh
Padding : None
Dimensions : 24.5″x 18.5″ x 1′

Small and lightweight
Easy to carry
Multiple and transparent pockets

These bags are small and perfect for protecting your regulator . They are padded and usually have a place for your dive computer as well. The small bags can be carried on a plane or stored in a safe place when in transit.

Material : Nylon
Weight : .85lb
Design/Style : Shoulder pack
Dimensions : 14 by 10 by 4 inches

5 Sizes (5L/ 10L/ 20L/ 30L/ 40L)
Can get snagged and rip
Transparent no privacy
Can’t hold a lot of weight

Dry dive bags are very simple, they keep your gear dry or keep everything else from getting wet. The standard design is that the top rolls down and clips. This way it can hold all different sizes of gear.

These bags usually come in different sizes by the liter. They can be one compartment or a few. These bags typically have straps like a backpack or none at all. These are amazing to have and should be in all divers gear.

These bags are great for travel, not just diving, you can go use them for snorkeling, swimming, and boating trips. The sizes range from 5L to 40L so you can fit whatever you need in it whether you are traveling alone or in a group.

The bag is see-through which is great to find what you are looking for but this also means everyone can see what you have. It is made from PVC so it is waterproof but not breathable.

You can keep everything from getting wet this way or store all your wet gear in there. The PVC is sturdy but as with all plastic is susceptible to ripping.

Material : Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
Weight : .75lb
Design/Style : Dryback
Padding : Some
Dimensions : 12.99 x 3.94 x 2.17 inches

Multiple ways to use
Folds down to a quarter of its size
Made specifically for SCUBA
Heavey for carry-on but only 5.06 pounds
No backpack option

Hand-held bags like regulator bags, dry bags, or backpacks are extremely useful. Anything you can bring on the plane or near you will ensure its safety and will alleviate worries about the most expensive and essential pieces of gear being damaged.

Tilos is a name brand that you can trust and this bag is no exception. The Total Eclipse wheel bag can store up to 94 liters and weighs 5.06 pounds (2.3 kilos). That is a lot of space for your gear with minimal weight.

This bag has side fin pockets to keep your fins separate from the rest of your gear as well as customizable compartments inside to configure the bag as your need. It is set up as a roller suitcase with a handle but does not have the option to go as a backpack or duffle bag sadly. If you do need to save space, it can fold down to a quarter of its size when not in use on the boat or at home.

Weight : 5.04lbs
Design/Style : Roller Bag
Dimensions : ‎19.02 x 10.98 x 9.02 inches

The main compartment has mesh for ventilation
The outside pocket has a cool compartment for cold drinks or fish
External elastic for holding gear
Is a little bulky
High price point
Fins over 3.2 feet (100cm) will not fit

This bag is made to hold all of your freediving gear, fins, speargun, mask, etc. It has multiple pockets in different areas to keep your gear safe.

The whole bag is padded to give it more support when traveling, we don’t recommend checking this bag through your freediving fins.

The main compartment has mesh to let your freediving wetsuit dry and the outside even has a cooler for beverages/snacks or your catch of the day.

Weight : 2.21 lb
Design/Style : Backpack
Dimensions :

Why Should I Use/Own a Dive Bag?

A lot of divers think that they can get away without a dive bag and they may be right for short trips or when traveling in their car.

If you rent the gear you may not even care too much, but it will pay to get your own dive bag.

You need a dive bag to store all your gear and to prevent damage from the elements when transporting it.

When you travel with your scuba gear on a boat, airplane, or just in the back of the truck it can be exposed to the elements even in perfect conditions (the sun is a killer). You want to take care of the dive gear and for it to last a long time. Since you probably spent a decent amount of money to get your scuba equipment you will want to have a good bag to protect it.

Regular suitcases, backpacks, and duffel bags are not meant to handle and protect scuba gear. Dive bags often have features like ventilation to help gear dry, waterproofing, extra padding, and/ or may have special pockets for your mask or regulator .

Scuba gear isn’t cheap so getting a bag will help you to maintain it to keep it safe and properly organized.

Dive Bag Buying Guide

Shape and size.

When looking to get a dive bag, be sure to think about how big your gear is and the size of the bag that you will need. If you have a travel BCD and regulator bag you will not need something too large and can carry on both of them on the plane.

If you have a standard jacket BCD and a pair of jet fins you will need a larger more sturdy bag to travel and carry your gear.

The best way to do it would be to have a larger bag in conjunction with some smaller ones. For example, a roller bag with a mesh bag and a few dry bags inside is a gear combination for travel to and then around your dive destination.

If you do want to carry on a bag (especially in the US) make sure your bags will pass the dimensions imposed by airlines.

Each airline has its own specific rules, dimensions, and weights for carry-on bags and some are more strict than others. about how large your carry-on can be. In general, most airlines will allow you to carry on a bag up to 22 x 14 x 9 inches and 15 pounds. Do check though to be sure.

Dive bags are made from a variety and combinations of materials like nylon, cotton, fabric, plastic, kevlar, rubber, and metal.

Whatever matter what your choice may be make sure it is durable and preferably waterproof or at least has a water-resistant lining.

Handles and Straps

Bags have a lot of different options and depending on how strong you are and your size some options might be better than others.

Whatever the style, wraparound handles, shoulder straps, or even a pull handle, think about how you will use the bag and that the handles/ straps are stable and secure.

If your gear is very heavy read the weight limits of the bags and/ or have multiple bags and separate the gear.

Compression Straps

Not all bags have these but internal straps are handy for compressing wetsuits, or BCDs and keeping your gear from sliding around and possibly getting damaged.

External straps are used for fins or wet gear on the outside of the bag.

Drain Holes

Some bags have little holes in the bottom or sides and these holes are usually reinforced metal that allows water and moisture to escape.

In a lot of places even if it isn’t raining the humidity can prevent things from drying and can cause mold .

Pockets and Compartments

The more compartments and pockets a bag has the safer your gear is and the easier it is to access. We recommend collapsible compartments which will give you the ability to change the bag to suit your needs.

If possible having some that are dry compartments and wet ones can prevent all your gear from getting wet and moldy.

Some scuba bags even have pockets for a mask and compartments for your regulator . A scuba design will help protect small and sensitive parts of your gear.

This is something that many look at first and we understand that you don’t want to spend a ton on the bag.

While this may not seem like an essential part of gear the more your dive gear is protected the longer it will last, don’t skimp.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you carry on your dive gear.

Yes, you can bring on most of your dive gear as long as it is underweight and nothing sharp is in it. Make sure to keep your dive knife and speargun in your checked baggage.

Which dive bag is the best?

If you don’t want to carry your heavy dive bag a roller bag is the best option and is easier to carry around the airport.

If you don’t have a lot of gear a backpack can be a good option. The best bag will depend on the situation and your budget.

Do I Really Need a Dive Bag?

No, but it will help as regular bags don’t have the padding and special compartments. You want to take care of your dive gear.

Tips for Packing a Dive Bag

As we talked about above packing will depend greatly on what gear you have, where you are going, and the type of bag you have.

We have laid out the best way to fly with your dive gear here, but it goes over to just packing in general. But here are a few other tips.

Wrap as much as you can inside your wetsuit .
Neoprene is like bubble wrap use it as such.
Use the box your scuba mask came in and if you can get a hold of another one they are great for all small bits of gear.
Carry on or wear your dive computer .
Make sure to check your dive knife , line cutter, and/ or speargun .
If you can afford specific travel BCDs and dive gear .
Check to see if your dive insurance covers your gear in case of an accident.
Use a checklist like the one we have here so you don’t forget anything.

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Adjustable Padded Straps
Reinforced Pull Handle

Great For Day Trips
Large Outer Pocket

Large & Roomy Bag
Cool Camo Design

Adjustable Straps
200+ Amazon reviews

Heavy Duty Bag
Smooth Gliding Wheels

Best Dive Bag for Scuba Travel

So you have a box for your scuba mask, and a regulator bag for getting your gear to the dive site but when you are packing for a scuba holiday , it’s a good idea to invest in a dive bag to keep all your scuba diving equipment protected and together from and to airports.

Traveling with diving gear means having a protective case during air transportation and a mesh bag that can handle wet conditions at the site. Depending on your requirements, dive bags come in super handy. They make it easier to carry scuba equipment from place to place.

So whether you have heavy duty accessories, camera equipment or just want to bring lots of different gear options with you for your next trip – you’re gonna need a bag large enough to fit everything in. We know there can be so many different choices out there on the market today, so we have done our best to review the top 10.

Table of Contents

10 Best Scuba Dive Bags For Your Next Trip

When planning for a scuba vacation , the reality is, you need both a bag for air travel (and other transportation forms) and a dive bag that you can bring along with you on the boat. Both serve a different but important purpose.

Your main bag should be able to carry weight load, provide support and also protection from rough handling and weather conditions. Your second bag option will be for keeping your accessories and smaller kit together once at the dive site and should also be suitable for carrying wet gear, like mesh dive bags for example.

Investing in one of the following choices will help you organize your equipment and also give you space for sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreens and anything else that you’ll be bringing along. When reading our reviews, take into account the different sizes, features, dimensions and storage options to make sure you find your perfect piece.

So whether you are looking at the best winter scuba destinations or a summer dive trip, we’ve put together a list of the best duty gear bags for a scuba holiday. Our list includes choices of dive bag with wheels, roller dive bag, polyester mesh bags that can get wet and heavy duty roller bags for air travel so that you are covered in all areas.

1. Best Mesh Scub Bag: Mares New Deluxe Cruise Mesh Backpack

Mares New Deluxe Cruise Mesh Backpack Dive Bag

This Mares bag is one of the best mesh designs we have seen so far . It is comfortable to use as a backpack thanks to its adjustable chest strap and sternum strap but you can also carry it in your hands using the two rubber handles.

Its a great size with plenty of room, simply pack your scuba gear from the drawcord top opening and then use the side zipper for quick access once your items are already packed. It’s made from mesh fabric but the back features a special design that protects you from wet gear.

It also features an extra nylon enclosed compartment at the front for any items that you don’t want to get wet. The clever design makes it versatile, strong with easy access. The front pocket is also a great fit for your regulator bag.

2. Most Portable Design: ScubaPro XP Pack Duo Rolling Scuba Luggage

Scuba diving gear is heavy so having handy roller bags for storage makes traveling with your own scuba gear a lot easier. Save yourself from lifting a heavy load with the ScubaPro XP trolley handles so you can stay agile.

This model is made of strong nylon fabric and is large enough to fit all your scuba equipment . The compartment features two mesh pockets for keeping equipment from tangling into each other, great for dive computer protection or a place to store a regulator bag.

3. Best Organized Dive Bags With Wheels: Cressi Strong Moby 5 Large Capacity

Cressi Strong Large Capacity Roller Luggage Bag

Even basic scuba gear has many different parts and pieces to it, that’s why it’s important to have a dive bag that lets you pack the contents separately into pockets to provide more protection of your valuables. Cressi’s version of roller bags features plenty of pockets and compartments for packing any accessories you want to bring with you.

The Cressi Moby 5 is an excellent choice for those who look to keep the interior of accessories perfectly organized and carefully packed. It is also great for when you want to limit your weight load since you can sneak in non-diving gear in the extra pockets.

4. Most Versatile Scuba Bag: Hollis Duffle Bag for Scuba and Snorkeling

If durability is something you are looking for in your carry on – this is the one for you. Hollis have a reputation for engineering high-quality equipment for technical divers and are firmly focused on providing customers with the diving solutions they need for the more complicated diving situations they may find themselves in.

Although the high-end look and feel are present in this awesome duffle bag by the brand, it is a substantially simpler affair. It has been manufactured from a very durable and robust tarpaulin fabric and with a maximum capacity of 96-liters, offers enough space for all the diving gear you would need to take along on a technical expedition or if you are going away for a long time.

It offers a number of carrying options, from the backpack-style shoulder straps to the carry handles at both ends of the bag. Both of which have padded handles. There is an ID pocket to the top of the bag.

The thing we really like about this bag, aside from its impressive size and capacity is the ruggedness of its design. It has both puncture and abrasion resistance seams, so it is unlikely to fall apart even after you put it through its paces on various trips.

5. Best Hidden Perk: Mares Cruise Backpack Pro Roller Bag

Mares Cruise Backpack Pro Scuba Roller Dive Gear Bag

The Mares Cruise Backpack Pro roller bag has undergone a makeover and we love the hidden perk of this new scuba travel roller bags design. This bag may look like an ordinary trolley bag but the interior is a beauty case complete with a mirror so you can check yourself at any time during the day.

Besides the hidden perk, it also a handy design that can be converted into a backpack complete with shoulder straps – making it one of the most versatile bags on our list. Another great design element – the storage pockets for fins has a water drainage system to protect it from mold. All of this for a great price too.

6. Best Foldable Scuba Travel Duffel Bag: Aqua Lung Explorer Mesh Duffle

When you need to bring scuba diving bags with you, size volume and portability are important. Cue in the Aqua Lung Explorer mesh duffel bag design that is collapsible to just a few inches for easy storage . The opening on this duffel is easily accessed by the main zipper and it is very easy to carry using the straps provided.

The interior has a padded air mesh body so that your equipment dries faster. Also, don’t worry about damage from saltwater since the zipper is non-corrosive and you can keep accessories in the tarpaulin sleeve pocket, away from your wet stuff.

7. Best Dive Bags with Wheels for Carry-On: Cressi Vuelo Carry-On Roller

This lightweight and compact roller bag by Cressi is ideal as an extra bag since it is designed to fit most airline carry-on hold requirements . Keep your most delicate diving gear safe in this scuba gear carry on bag that you can keep close to you on the airplane. This sturdy roller bag option features both side pockets and a front compartment and is large enough so you can organize your stuff better.

The zipper on the front of this bag also makes a great place to store your travel documents or dive cards when you are on the go. Or, use the Cressi Vuelo carry-on bags for budget travel and pack in all your clothes and toiletries all in the same place. Check out these tips for bringing diving gear on an airplane .

8. Biggest Volume: Cressi Gorilla Pro XL Waterproof Bag

Diving gear can sometimes be bulky so if you plan on carrying most of your own gear during your holiday you’ll need a piece large enough to fit everything in. The Cressi Gorilla Pro XL is a duffel bag design that is great for packing large diving equipment .

The Cressi Gorilla Pro XL is a duffle bag meant for air travel but the designers have also considered any wet gear you might be carrying. This scub bag has a draining cap that you can use for both draining or washing it, even simultaneously. It’s a beautifully styled bag for a great price.

9. Best Backpack for Light Equipment: Tusa MBP-1 Backpack Mesh

Not all diving excursions require you to carry a lot of personal stuff or weight. For the trips where the equipment is organized for you, and you don’t need to carry a lot of weight, keep the few personal items that you do carry with you in this lightweight Tusa mesh backpack. The reviews speak for themself.

This backpack has a mesh and nylon design that keeps your back dry when carrying wet gear. You can also be sure that your delicate gear is not moving around thanks to the four external shoulder straps that keep your equipment tight once packed away.

10. Best Heavy-Duty Scuba Bags: TUSA Dive Gear Roller Duffel

TUSA - Dive Gear Roller Duffle Bag in Black

When you are looking for durability, gear protection and a safe place to store camera equipment, the TUSA model is a good choice of a duffle bag for you. This heavy-duty duffel bag is very versatile and can be carried as a duffel bag or pulled alongside you like roller bags. Ideal for when it is full with heavy items.

The TUSA dive bags features plenty of large contents sections, including a double-zippered outer pocket, to fit all your stuff and keep everything organized. The wheels are heavy-duty so you can pull your equipment with you on any terrain and the back is water-resistant so you don’t get wet while carrying.

Making this the perfect option of diving bags with wheels.

Large Trolley Bag
Opens On Three Sides
3 Color Options
Padded Shoulder Straps
135 Liters Storage
Durable Straps
Large & Roomy Bag

Diving Packing Guide

When looking for a gear bag, there are a few things you will want to take into account and some questions you should ask yourself beforehand. Do you need a bag with pockets, easy access, heavy duty handles, what shape should you get, what style and so much more. This will all come down to personal preference and also your choice of travel destination.

There is one other thing you need to think of, and that’s how should you pack your gear bag.

We have put together this short dive packing guide to help you do just that. Think about all the diving gear you want to bring along and how it will fit inside it the interior of your bag. What you can fit into pockets, zipper sections, and storage areas. Think about how sensitive your scuba gear is and whether it is better to pack them separately.

What to Pack in Your Dive Luggage?

Having your own scuba gear feels comfortable but it is not always the most practical option. Think about the essential diving gear you’ll need and what you can rent instead. You might also want to use your bag for your clothes and accessories so you’ll need to take into consideration your weight and size limit too.

This is the basic dive equipment to pack:

Diving computer
Scuba suite
Dive hoods and gloves for cold waters

Take a look at this instructional video on how to pack your bag. This gives you a better idea on how to pack your own dive valuables to reduce the risk of any damage and also reduce weight.

What Size Scuba Bag Do You Need?

How big your diving luggage needs to be, depends on what gear you will be carrying with you. The biggest item in your bag is probably your BCD so take that as the leading measurement when deciding on what sizes to buy.

Another good indicator for the size scuba luggage you need are your fins. Many bags offer separate outer compartments specifically for fins but if the scuba bag does not have these then measure the length of the fins to find out whether there will be enough room in the main compartment.

Aside from fitting in all your gear, think about the type of travel you want. Asides from the material, shape and price, you’ll need to know your sizes, dimensions, and weight limits. It’s a good idea to check the airline guidelines if you will be traveling to different countries.

Also, how portable does a bag need to be? Will you be hauling your gear with you over long distances? If you have a lot of weight to carry, you don’t want a duffel back with shoulder straps. Get a large volume bag and read the product reviews before making up your mind.

A large gear bag is great for keeping all your personal stuff with you but it is not always practical. In some cases, it is better to stick to less diving gear and then renting the rest of your diving equipment at the site.

Water and Your Scuba Diving Bag

A wet dive bag is unavoidable. That is why all scuba bags are made of somewhat waterproof material, even the diving luggage intended for flying.

Pay attention to the type of material that the gear bag is made of and whether it suits its purpose. A travel dive bag is usually made of waterproof nylon, for example, while a diving excursion bag is usually made of strong mesh material.

Interested in a more advanced way of dealing with water in your bag? Then, look for a bag with a drainage and ventilation system or a quick-dry system. It’s also useful that any bag you invest in has pockets for your storage.

Also, always make sure that the zippers on your bag are non-corrosive. They are bound to get wet so you want heavy-duty zippers that will last as long as possible, even in wet conditions.

Traveling with Diving Gear

Dive gear is bulky with sensitive parts. Carefully plan out how you will pack your luggage and how you will carry it to make sure that all your diving gear is protected. Its also a good idea to think of the easiest way you will be unpacking your bag.

If you are a frequent traveler, consider getting diving gear that was specifically designed for travel. There are travel scuba BCDs, for example, that are easier to fold into a dive bag or suitcase.

When you are using air transportation, always check the guidelines of the airline you will be flying with. Maybe there are different guidelines for sports equipment.

For more tips on traveling with diving gear, check out this list of tips.

Scuba diving is more than a passion to me, it's a part of who I am. Now, I travel and dive as much as I can, exploring the world, trying new dive gear, discovering dive destinations and reviewing them here for you. All while educating people of the threats our marine life and oceans face every day and what we can do to help defend it.

The best scuba diving equipment bags

19 December 2019 10 minutes

scuba divers carrying equipment bags along a beach in Gili Trawangan

Owning a full set of dive gear is an expensive investment, so spending a little bit extra on decent carrying kit makes sense. Mark ‘Crowley’ Russell takes a look at some of the best scuba diving equipment bags on the market today

Tips for packing.

KIT BAGS – LONG HAUL
Akona Roller Duffel £129
Cressi Moby 5 £211
Mares Cruise Backpack Pro £177
Northern Diver Voyager All Terrain £70
Scubapro Porter Bag £172
Seac Equipage 1000 £169
Stahlsac 34” Steel Wheeled Bag £245.95
Tusa BA-0202 Travel Roller Bag (Large) £189
KIT BAGS – GENERAL PURPOSE
Akona Collapsing Mesh Duffel £59
Cressi Gorgona £52
Hollis Duffel £89.95
Mares Cruise Backpack Mesh Elite £49
Northern Diver 80 Litre Mesh Holdall £22
Oceanic Mesh Duffel £34.95
Scubapro Mesh Sack £33
Seac Equipage 250 £45
Stahlsac 40” Mesh Duffel £35.95
Tusa BA-0103 Mesh Backpack £62
KIT BAGS – HAND-HELD BAGS
Akona Pro Reg Bag £36.99
Mares Cruise Dry T-Light £12 (5l), £15 (10l), £20 (25l)
Northern Diver Dry Seal Roll Top Bag £28 (10l), £35 (20l), £42 (50l), £58 (120l)
Oceanic Regulator Bag £29.95
Scubapro Regulator & Computer Bag £27.50
Stahlsac Storm Dry Sack £29.95 (12l) £34.95 (30l) £47.95 (60l)
Tusa Drybag 1 £29

Over the years, advances in material technology have led to the robust, lightweight luggage designs we find on the market today, complete with handles, wheels and extra pockets. For long-distance international travel, a sturdy scuba gear bag can have advantages over a standard suitcase. Some have waterproof compartments to separate not-quite-dry dive gear from the rest of your luggage, and some have pockets specifically tailored for fins and other equipment. Wheels and retractable handles are great for travelling through airports but can be a bit of a hindrance when it comes to sand, rocks and wooden jetties. Depending on where you’re travelling, a bag with extra handles and shoulder straps may be more practical.

Bear in mind, however, that such travel bags are often quite heavy even when empty. Short-haul economy flights with 20kg limits may well mean that you either have to travel very light or find yourself incurring extra baggage charges.

Duffel bags are a good option for both local and international travel, as long as you don’t mind carrying your gear by hand or fighting with airport trolleys. Some may have internal waterproof compartments and some do not, but one that comes with an additional shoulder strap or backpack-style harness can be very handy if your dive travel involves more than chucking all your kit in the boot of your car. Mesh bags are great for hauling gear around once you’ve reached your destination – from hotel room to dive centre – and while many centres have their own bags or boxes, some do not, so a lightweight mesh bag which allows wet kit to be transported while drying is a useful addition to the main flight bag or duffel.

Hand-held bags including regulator bags and roll-top dry bags are exceptionally useful. Keeping your regulators secure and packaged in your hand luggage, with that extra bit of protection, helps to alleviate worries about one of your most expensive and essential bits of kit being damaged. Roll-top dry bags are essential on any dive trip that involves small boats. They have saved many smartphones, cameras, key fobs and surface interval snacks from certain soggy doom.

Wrap as much as you can inside your wetsuit and BCD and use your fins for protection at the sides. Neoprene is like a posh version of Bubble Wrap and will provide protective padding for regulators, masks and computers. Use the box which came with your mask, that’s what it’s there for! Where possible, carry your regulators and dive computer in your hand luggage when flying. If you’ve ever watched some airport baggage handlers lobbing your precious cargo from the aeroplane to the tarmac below, it’s reassuring to keep them with you.

KIT BAGS – LONG HAUL

Kit bags designed for long-haul flights where ‘getting there’ isn’t even half the fun. Sturdy frames and tough wheels come with a weight penalty, however, so may not be the best option for avoiding excess baggage fees.

Akona Roller Duffel £129

Combining the best of both worlds, Akona’s Roller Duffel offers good internal dimensions, with a steel frame, wheels, telescopic handle and shoulder strap packaged into a PVC-laminated 600 denier fabric.

Dimensions : 36x77x36cm Capacity : 100 litre Weight : 4kg

www.akona.com

Cressi Moby £234

Cressi’s latest roller bag, the Moby 5, is made from a new 300/400 denier lightweight material, with a main compartment that opens up on three sides, two large bellows pockets and a small top pocket at the front and two side pockets for fins. The handle is fully retractable and the large-diameter wheels can be removed and replaced in case of breakage.

Dimensions : 76x40x28cm Capacity : 115 litre Weight : 3.9kg

www.cressi.com

Mares Cruise Buddy £177

Mares’ top of the line Cruise Backpack Pro has been – according to Mares – ‘Air Travel Optimised’, weighing 15 per cent less than its predecessor, with integrated front pockets to minimise its profile, a sturdy telescopic handle and wheels, plus padded shoulder straps for ease of transportation; all built around a respectable 127-litre interior and weighing in at 5kg.

Dimensions : 47x32x81cm Capacity : 128 litre Weight : 5kg

www.mares.com

Northern Diver Voyager All Terrain £70

A large and rugged wheeled bag constructed from 1000 denier washable PVC fabric, which sacrifices a retractable handle for a decrease in both weight and price. The interior is split into two zippered compartments, the wheels are protected by corner guards and plastic runners on the base prevent damage caused by dragging. Carrying handles are present at both ends and also at the top of the bag, and a removable tow strap is included for those marathon hikes through the airport.

Dimensions (LxWxH) : 81x40x42 Capacity : 136 litre Weight : 4.1kg

www.ndiver.com

Scubapro Porter Bag £172

Scubapro’s Porter Bag comes with reinforced skate-style roller wheels plus a backpack harness, and hence can be rolled or carried wherever you wish to go. There is no retractable handle, but the top handle is extendable for ease of use. The large main compartment, two front pockets and two inside pockets provide plenty of packing options. At 2.55kg the Porter is one of the lightest airline-type bags on the market, and it folds down to almost half its size for storage.

Dimensions : 80x45x35cm (52x41x17cm when folded) Capacity :125 litre Weight : 2.55kg

www.scubapro.com

Seac Equipage 1000 £169

Seac has a new luggage range for 2020 with the Equipage 1000 at the top of the line, a 140-litre wheeled bag with telescopic handle and backpack-style shoulder straps, weighing just 3kg. The outer shell is made from 1200 denier polyester with a rigid rear panel, while the interior has a large primary compartment with two large pockets for holding a wetsuit and boots.

Dimensions : 75x42x38cm Capacity : 140 litre Weight : 3kg

www.seac.com

Stahlsac 34” Steel Wheeled Bag £245.95

The Steel 34 from adventure travel specialist Stahlsac is one of the largest available, with a massive internal volume of 148 litres. The bag features a wet/dry compartment with a waterproof bottom and a breathable top for drying out damp gear, multiple quick-access zippers and an ‘add-a-bag’ strap to attach backpacks or carry-ons. The frame is low-profile for easy storage and an optional battery power-pack can also be fitted.

Dimensions: 86×43.18×30.48cm Capacity: 148 litre Weight: 5.7kg

www.stahlsac.com

Tusa BA-0202 Travel Roller Bag (Large) £189

The BA-0202 is the largest of Tusa’s travel roller bags, which also comes in a medium-size and a small, carry-on size priced at £169 and £139 respectively. Two carry-handles complement the rigid retractable handle, the bag has two internal zippered pockets and a third mesh pocket, with double-zippered large and small pockets on the outside.

Dimensions : 30x48x75cm Capacity : 108 litre Weight : 4.5kg

www.tusa.com

KIT BAGS – GENERAL PURPOSE

So many bags to choose from – a large, solid duffel or a super-light mesh bag for dunking, draining and drying on the go, or maybe pack the latter inside the former

Akona Collapsing Mesh Duffel £59

The Nylon reinforced mesh duffel collapses and zips into the end of the attached, padded 420 denier Nylon regulator bag, allowing for transportation of a full set of dive gear or just regulators and computers in the handy, easy to carry around container.

Dimensions : 30x36x74cm (extended), 30x36x10cm (collapsed) Capacity : 80 litre

Cressi Gorgona £52

A lightweight polyester mesh travel bag which zips into a small holder for transport and packing; long enough to carry freediving fins, and large enough to carry a full set of dive gear.

Dimensions : 96x38cm Capacity : 107 litre Weight : 0.75kg

Hollis Duffel £89.95

Hollis is well known for its no-nonsense gear, which includes the Hollis Duffel. Made from a durable tarpaulin material, it features a single, main compartment and one internal zippered pocket. It has carry handles on each end of the bag, two straps with padded handles and backpack shoulder straps.

Dimensions : 71x41x35.5cm Capacity : 95 litre

www.hollis.com

Mares Cruise Backpack Mesh Elite £49

A lightweight mesh backpack with an integrated handle, adjustable shoulder straps and a large internal capacity which can be folded into the external front pocket. The base is reinforced and fitted with a drainage hole, and an internal dry pocket provides storage for valuables.

Dimensions : 39 x 39 x 74cm Capacity : 114 litre Weight : 0.5kg

Northern Diver 80 Litre Mesh Holdall £22

The padded air mesh walls of Northern Diver’s collapsible mesh holdall are designed to protect valuable dive gear while allowing it to dry at the same time, with a tarpaulin sleeve pocket providing a dry space for valuables and also to prevent soaking your dry clothes as you carry the bag. Nylon D-rings are included for an optional shoulder strap, along with the standard padded handles.

Dimensions : 74x34x32cm Capacity : 80 litre Weight : approx 1kg

Oceanic Mesh Duffel £34.95

Constructed from 600 denier polyester with a durable PVC backing for the side panels, Oceanic’s mesh duffel is designed to transport gear between dive sites, before dunking it in the rinse tank and hanging the whole lot up to dry. An adjustable shoulder strap is included with the regular carrying straps.

Dimensions : 76×65.5×30.5cm Capacity : 82.6 litre

www.oceanic.com

Seac Equipage 250 £45

A new 600 denier polyester holdall-style bag from Seac, with an adjustable shoulder strap, fin pocket with buckles, front pocket for smaller items, and an adjustable shoulder strap included.

Dimensions : 75x40x35cm Capacity : 110 litre Weight : 1.4kg

Stahlsac 40” Mesh Duffel £45.95

Stahlsac’s 40” (102cm) heavy-duty mesh bag will accommodate even the longest of freediving fins, along with a full set of scuba gear. 22”, 26” and 36” (56cm, 66cm and 91cm) models are also available; all come with a zippered accessory pocket for storing smaller items.

Dimensions (40”): 102x48x48cm

Tusa BA-0103 Mesh Backpack £72

Built with a heavy-duty, rubberized mesh with a generous main compartment, a large outer pocket and one internal zippered pocket for storing valuables. The extended main zipper allows for easy access to all areas of the bag, which is fitted with padded shoulder straps for transport.

Dimensions (LxWxH): 36x41x75cm Capacity : 81L Weight : 0.98kg

KIT BAGS – HAND-HELD BAGS

For protecting valuable computers and regulators, or keeping smartphones, car keys and sandwiches dry, compact waterproof bags are dive essentials.

Akona Pro Reg Bag £46.99

A fully padded regulator bag with interior Velcro straps to hold hoses in place, with reinforced D-rings on the exterior for attaching the included shoulder strap.

Dimensions : 30x36x10cm

Mares Cruise Dry T-Light £12 (5l), £15 (10l), £20 (25l)

Ultra-lightweight reinforced polyester dry bags weighing in at next to nothing – the 5-litre version weighs just 50g – the T-Light series is fully waterproof with heat-sealed stitching and a quick closure system. A 75-litre, backpack-style version is available for £44.

Dimensions/Weight : 15x48cm/0.05kg (5 litre), 20x35cm/0.06kg (10 litre), 24×57.5cm/0.11kg (25 litre)

Northern Diver Dry Seal Roll Top Bag £28 (10l), £35 (20l), £42 (50l), £58 (120l)

Northern Diver has revamped its dry bag range with a new watertight ‘Dry Seal’ for the opening, and an air purge valve to help compress the insides for easier sealing. Available in red or black in 10, 20, 50 and 120 litres, the 420 denier constructed bags are fitted with quick-release buckles and a detachable shoulder strap.

Dimensions/weight : 48×18 x18cm/0.5kg (10 litre), 60x23x23cm/0.6kg (20 litre), 76x28x28cm/0.8kg (50 litre), 103x37x37cm/1.2kg (120 litre)

Oceanic Regulator Bag £29.95

A simple padded regulator bag constructed from 1620 denier Ballistic Nylon with YKK self- healing zips and interior Velcro loops to secure hoses.

Dimensions : 30.5x11x30.5cm

Stahlsac Storm Dry Sack £29.95 (12l) £34.95 (30l) £47.95 (60l)

Stahlsac’s Storm Dry Sacks are available in 12-litre (pictured), 30-litre and 60-litre versions, depending on whether you need to carry just a phone, wallet and set of keys or a whole change of clothing. The standard roll-top design is constructed with a semi-opaque side panel, making it easier to find what you’re looking for; all models come with a detachable shoulder strap.

Dimensions (DxH): 25x48cm (12 litre), 28x70cm (30 litre), 30x94cm (60 litre)

Tusa Drybag 1 £39

A tough, nylon-reinforced, PVC-constructed bag in the classic open-top, roll-down and quick-snap-to-close design, but with a rectangular-shaped base opposed to the circular design of some other brands, and available in one size only.

Dimensions (HxWxD): 54x25x16cm Capacity: 21.6 litre

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Best Scuba Diving Bags Reviewed in 2024

Table of Contents

1️⃣ ⭐ Reviews – Best Scuba Dives Bags 2024

2️⃣ 🤔 frequently asked questions.

Any traveling diver will know that a well-organized dive bag is a dream to unpack. Sure, you can stuff everything in a suitcase, but setting up your gear can be messy and disorganized. Even worse, sensitive equipment like your regulator can be rattled around and banged up during transport, and the last thing you want is a malfunctioning regulator during your dream dive trip! That’s why you’ll need a dedicated diving bag loaded with compartments to protect your essential equipment like your first stage and regulator. We personally like to carry the first stage and regulator in a separate, padded reg-bag, but the choice is yours. If you’re in the market for a diving bag, here are some of our favorites!

Best Overall – Cressi Moby 5 Trolley
Best Budget – Krakel Aquatics Mesh
Runner-Up – SEAC U-Boot 100 Dry Bag

Cressi Moby 5 Trolley

Ratings: 4.8
Brand: Cressi
Materials: 300/400-denier nylon
Volume: 115 L
Item dimension: 31.5 x 23.62 x 31.5 inches
Main compartment: 30 x 15.8 x 11 inches
Upper front pocket: 13.4 x 9.05 x 3.3 inches
Lower front pocket: 13.4 x 15 x 3.3 inches
Fin pocket: 28.7 x 9.8 x 2.8 inches
Weight: 10.8 pounds
Price: $249.95

Our Overall Review: This wheeled dive bag is ideal for carrying all your scuba equipment thanks to its large compartments. Its material is specifically designed to make it durable and lightweight, and there are two adjustable straps when you want to switch to backpack mode.

Aqua Lung Explorer II Duffel Pack Dive Bag

Ratings: 4.6
Brand: Aqua Lung
Materials: 1680D Polyester with PVC coating
Volume: 46.2 L
Item dimensions: 24 x 13 x 9 inches
Weight: 3.5 pounds

Our Overall Review: The Aqua Lung Explorer II Duffel Pack is ideal for those who love keeping it simple with carry-on-sized bags. It has adjustable backpack straps, a mesh drying pocket, a sunglass pocket, and an organization pocket. There are also useful fin straps on the back of the bag where you can hold fins of any size.

Scubapro Mesh N Roll

Brand: Scubapro
Materials: Nylon mesh
Volume: 104 L
Item dimensions: 30.8 x 15 x 13.8 inches
Weight: 5.7 pounds
Price: $152

Our Overall Review: The Scubapro Mesh N Roll bag lets you dry out your wet gear and makes it easy for you to check what’s inside. It’s also lightweight and allows great air circulation, so you can say goodbye to mildew and odors. This bag has a separate non-mesh zippered pocket to store your wallets and keys. The unique rolling system means you can easily transport the bag without wasting precious energy.

Akona Lightweight Scuba Less Than 7 Lbs Roller Bag

Ratings: 4.5
Brand: Akona
Materials: Polyester
Volume: 64 L
Item dimensions: 21 x 14.5 x 9 inches
Weight: 6 pounds 8 oz
Price: $230

Our Overall Review: It’s the perfect bag for divers who want a reliable, sturdy, and lightweight bag they can easily travel with. The Akona Lightweight Less Than 7 Lbs bag features a cell phone pocket, an office organizer pocket, whisper roll wheels, and stiffeners in the edges to make packing simple.

Cressi Gorilla Pro XL

Ratings: 4.4
Materials: RF welded seam PVC
Volume: 135 L
Item dimension: 37.43 x 13.4 x 16.55 inches
Weight: 3 pounds
Price: $120.03

Our Overall Review: The roomy bag is made from a strong radio frequency welded seam PVC and is waterproof, making it ideal for boat travel. The length is perfect for storing long free-diving fins, and there’s a handy draining cap at one end of the bag to let the water out. The top grab handles easily transform into shoulder straps when needed.

TUSA BA-0202 Dive Gear Lightweight Roller Bag

Ratings: 4.1
Brand: TUSA
Materials: Nylon
Volume: 108 L
Item dimensions: 11.8 x 19 x 29.5 inches
Weight: 9.9 pounds
Price: $225

Our Overall Review: This roller bag is great for both short trips and extended trips thanks to its generous size. The TUSA BA-0202 features an expandable heavy-duty pull handle, compression straps, carry handles, internal zippered pockets, and a mesh zippered pocket.

SEAC U-Boot 100 Dry Bag

Brand: SEAC
Materials: Tarpaulin
Volume: 100 L
Item dimensions: 37 x 12 x 10 inches
Weight: 2.3 pounds
Price: $78.24

Our Overall Review: Thick and durable, the SEAC U-Boot 100 is made from tarpaulin with reinforcement patches on its sleeves. The bag has a special cap at one end that makes drainage easy after a day in the water. The material means you can rinse the bag with fresh water to avoid build-up. This affordable option is a spacious, lightweight, and versatile choice for traveling divers.

XS Scuba B3 Bomber

Brand: XS Scuba
Materials: 1200D Magnum Coat
Volume: 98 L
Item dimensions: 29 x 16.5 x 15 inches
Weight: 7.6 pounds
Price: $129.95

Our Overall Review: The B3 Bomber stands for Big Black Bag, which is why it’s perfect for all the gear you need when you’re going on an exotic diving trip. The B3 Bomber features a large main compartment with two internal compression straps, two large accessory pockets, and a roller setup that makes it easy for you to bring it along. XS Scuba wanted to keep the bag looking sleek, which is why there’s nothing on it except for a very small logo.

Stahlsac Caicos Cargo Pack

Brand: Stahlsac
Volume: 133 L
Item dimension: 37.52 x 19.02 x 12.01 inches
Weight: 9.3 pounds
Price: $339.95

Our Overall Review: This full-size dive bag is an investment that will last you a lifetime. The bag has multiple pockets to store your gear, including side pockets that can fit XL fins. It’s also safe for air travel because the bag features internal compression straps that keep everything in place while in transit.

Krakel Aquatics Mesh

Brand: Kraken Aquatics
Materials: Mesh
Volume: 83 L
Item dimensions: 30 x 13 x 13 inches
Weight: 0.39
Price: $32.21

Our Overall Review: The affordable and light bag is a carryall that can fit all your gear. The mesh material also allows you to easily wash off salt water through your bag. Store your smaller items in the zippered side pockets that are big enough for cameras, sunscreen, glasses, or gloves. It includes an adjustable shoulder strap that allows you to carry heavier gear without straining your hands. Two sizes are available – large and extra large.

What are gear bags for scuba diving? Gear bags for scuba diving keep all the diving equipment together in separate compartments. They are made with heavy-duty materials for optimal durability, are usually water-resistant if not waterproof, and have several compartments to keep specific pieces of equipment like your regulator set and fins.

Why you need a dive bag ? Dive bags offer you a convenient way to transport your dive equipment. They have several compartments designed for a specific kind of gear like a slot for fins and a padded compartment for sensitive equipment like regulators.

What to look out for when buying a dive bag ? First, make sure the bag is the right size and has the capacity to accommodate all your dive gear. Durability is key, so pick heavy-duty materials and reinforced zippers. Dive bags have multiple compartments, pockets, and drainage for easy organization and storage after your dive trip. Consider the bag’s comfort for easy handling like wheels, handles, and padded straps.

Why buy a dive bag for scuba diving ? Instead of stuffing all your dive gear in a suitcase and hoping for the best, investing in a dive bag will keep all your gear safe and organized during a dive trip. Good dive bags are heavy-duty, will last for years, and will keep your equipment safe. Having sensitive equipment like regulators bouncing around in a suitcase during transportation could damage them.

How to choose the best dive bag ? Dive bags get banged around a lot, so make sure you choose one for its durability. Look for special features like reinforced stitching, good zippers, and heavy-duty material. Of course, the dive bag also has to be big enough to accommodate all your gear, especially if you have extra-long fins or a thick wetsuit. Consider ease of transportation as well and look for bags with wheels or padded straps for enhanced mobility. Carrying a loaded dive bag on one shoulder isn’t too much fun!

Final Thoughts – Now that you’ve got all your dive gear, you’ll need a dive bag to put all your toys in. Keep in mind dive bags are exposed to the elements and saltwater frequently, so invest in a high-quality bag, and it’ll last for decades. We hope our list helps you find your perfect bag!

About The Author

Best Scuba Diving Bags in 2023 (Review)

Last Updated: January 26, 2023 | Written By: Matt Fitzgerald

ReadyDive may earn a small commission from affiliate links in this article. Learn more

Table of Contents

With the ever-growing amount of equipment a diver accumulates, one can often forget that we require a means by which to transport our gear. A sturdy, reliable dive bag is exactly the thing for the job. However, there are some considerations involved in the buying process. Duffel or roller bag? Which size? How many compartments? With the help of our buyer’s advice guide and product recommendations, you should be well on your way to selecting which is the best dive bag for you.

Best Scuba Diving Bags

#1 – scubapro caravan diving bag.

The Scubapro Caravan is an excellent choice for those needing to carry heavy equipment over long distances. The bag has a variety of carrying options, from roller style to double-duffel hand straps, allowing you to choose the best option for you. Similarly, the bag is also designed to last the diver for a long time. It is constructed with 420D nylon as well as 450D ripstop fabric, making for a very tough and durable design. On top of this, the wheels of the bag are salt water resistant, resulting in greater longevity and operation.

A large main compartment includes a U-shaped opening, two side pockets, and one flat pocket on top, allowing you to pack a variety of larger and smaller items.
Made from a combination of 420D nylon not and 450D ripstop fabric, resulting in a tough and durable construction.
The bag includes a bevy of carrying options, including double-duffel hand straps; side, top, and bottom carrying handles; and reinforced saltwater-resistant wheels with a telescoping tow handle.

#2 – Aqualung Explorer II Duffel Bag

Aqua Lung Explorer II Duffel Pack, Black

The Aqualung Explorer II Duffel bag offers the diver a good trade-off between durability and lightweight construction. The bag is made of 1680D Polyester with a PVC coating, as well as having corrosion resistant zippers. Similarly, the base of the bag is padded with the addition of six corner guards, resulting in extra protection for your gear when travelling. The bag also has two exterior pockets, one of which is of mesh construction, allowing for wet gear to be held and dried whilst on the move. On top of this, the bag can be worn in backpack style, allowing for easier transport over long distances.

Extra Durable 1680D Polyester with PVC coating
Corrosion resistant zippers with extended pullers and lock holes
Padded and protected V-Diamond base with 6 corner guards
Two exterior organization pockets, one of them is mesh for drying extra wet gear
Packable backpack straps that second as duffel handles

#3 – Cressi Gorilla XL Bag

Cressi Waterproof Bag for Scuba Freediving Equipment - 135 Liters Capacity | Gorilla PRO XL Quality Since 1946

The Cressi Gorilla XL is a simply constructed duffel bag, designed for heavy duty use. With a capacity of 135 litres, this makes for a lot of space for extra gear. It is made of strong radio frequency welded seams. The bag itself is also waterproof, making it ideal for boat usage.

A large and roomy bag, plenty of space for storage. Internal capacity of 4. 75 cu ft (135 litres).
It is made from a strong radio frequency (RF) welded seam PVC and is waterproof.
2 Shoulder straps and handle straps on both ends of the bag.
Draining cap for washing bag and equipment at the same time.

#4 – Cressi Piper Bag

Cressi Piper Bag for Traveling | Strong and Safe with Multiple Handles and Wheels, Black, One Size (UB952000)

The Cressi Piper is an excellent option for those seeking a lightweight dive bag. With a two-stage telescopic handle and two exterior compression straps, the bag is perfect for air travel, making it a great companion for those looking to save on weight and space. The bag itself has a 50 litre capacity, making it large enough to carry the majority of a diver’s gear.

Several zippers and a strong design ensure that your equipment will be able to be stored safely. Features a back ID pocket for identification.
The interior of the Piper features compression straps and a side pocket to help organize your belongings.
At 6 pounds and 1. 73 cubic feet, the Piper is light and great for traveling.
The Piper is especially convenient for air travel, with a special 2 stage telescoping handle and 2 exterior compression straps with quick-release buckles.

#5 – Cressi Moby 5

Cressi Strong Large Capacity Trolley Bag 115L with Backpack Straps | Moby 5 designed in Italy

The Cressi Moby 5 is the ideal bag for those needing to transfer heavy equipment for years to come. The large diameter wheels can be removed and replaced with ease, guaranteeing prolonged usage of the bag. The bag has a number of pockets to allow for gear separation, as well as adjustable straps that allow for conversion into a backpack. This makes for a very versatile bag. The construction is made out of 300 and 400 denier, combining lightweight and durable elements. The material also results in a very strong design which, coupled with the supporting rods, results in a high tolerance to heavy loads.

Made with 300 and 400 Denier fabric that is light and very strong.
The main compartment opens on three sides allowing easy access. There are two large pockets in the front with zip closures, two side pockets for fins and a small upper pocket that holds an address tag.
There are two adjustable, padded, straps for carrying on the back that can be placed in special pockets when the backpack is being wheeled. The reinforced pull handle is telescopic and fully retractable.
The wheels have a large diameter and can be removed and easily replaced in the event of breakage. There are two carrying handles: a reinforced one at the top and one with Velcro closure at the bottom.
The back of the bag houses supporting rods to keep the Moby 5 in a vertical position. The Moby 5 measures 30 in (76 cm) height, 15.7 in (40 cm) long and 11 in (28 cm) wide. Capacity of 4 cubic feet (115 litres). Weight 10.6 lb (4.8 kg).

#6 – AKONA Globetrotter bag

AKONA Globetrotter All-in-One Carry-On Backpack - Blue

The AKONA Globetrotter bag is an excellent choice for those looking for a simple backpack construction for travelling light. The bag has a capacity of 58 litres, and, due to its soft shell design, can be compressed in order to save space. Your fins can also fit on the outside of the bag, with the use of compression straps, allowing them to double up as exterior protection for the bag.

Backpack style construction.
Compression Straps are designed to secure your fins to the outside of the bag.
58 Litre capacity.

#7 – Fourth Element Expedition Series Duffel Bag

Fourth Element Expedition Duffle 120L Bag/Orange

The Fourth Element Expedition Series Duffel bag is designed for the toughest of conditions. It is made of heavy duty mesh PVC, with double-lining. On top of this, it comes in varying capacities, that of 60, 90 and 120 litres, allowing you to select the correct dive bag size for your specific needs. It is available in either orange or blue, allowing for easy identification.

Available in 60/90/120 litres.
Available in a range of colours.
Made from heavy duty mesh PVC, with double-lined bottom.
Padded straps for backpack conversion.
Large pouch for label identification.

What to Look for in a Dive Bag

Dive bags come in a variety of sizes. When selecting the size of your dive bag you need to think not only about all the equipment you have as of now, but also the likelihood of what else you will accumulate within the next 5-10 years. By so doing, you are guaranteeing that this will be a dive bag to serve all your needs for many years to come. That said, however, bigger is not always better. For someone who is looking to save on luggage costs when flying, and who therefore opts for lighter, smaller equipment models, a large dive bag will undercut your style.

Wheels & Telescopic Handle

If you know you are going to need to transfer a lot of equipment, adding up to a heavy total weight, then it would be advisable to invest in a bag with wheels and telescopic handle, rather than a two strap duffel bag, for example. If going to be used in an airport, wheels and a handle are ideal.

Separate Compartments

Some dive bags come with only one large compartment for all your equipment to be stored in, whilst others come with multiple pockets of different shapes and sizes. The latter enables you to separate your gear, allowing for better protection of fragile items, such as your regulator , for example. That said, however, the more compartments, the higher the price. Therefore, this comes down very much to personal preference.

Construction

In general, there are three styles of construction. The first is a heavy duty dive bag that focuses on durability and toughness, guaranteeing longevity even with a lot of abuse.

The second type of construction is that of more lightweight materials and flexibility, making for a dive bag that saves you weight and space when travelling.

The third type, unsurprisingly, is that of a middle way between the other two constructions, being a trade-off between durable and lightweight materials.

Which one is the better option for you largely comes down to personal preference. What can be said, however, is that if you don’t plan to travel by air with the bag, then going for a more heavy duty construction may not be the worst idea.

There are various types of dive bags. Which one you need is – of course – dependent on your personal needs. They can be summarised as follows:

Duffel Bags

A duffel bag has a simple construction that allows for a lot of capacity. They can come with multiple compartments for gear separation. They also usually lack any rigid interior/exterior framework or shell, allowing for compression if needed when squeezing into small spaces.

Mesh bags are designed primarily for use when on or near the dive site. For example, they make excellent bags for carrying lightweight items on the boat, such as an exposure suit, mask, fins, and regulator. Because of the mesh construction, they allow for drainage and thus quick drying of your equipment. However, mesh bags should not be used for the transportation of a full equipment set, particularly not if travelling via plane, as they are not in any way designed to protect your equipment and cannot hold large amounts of heavy gear.

Roller Bags

Roller bags are ideal for those needing to transfer large amounts of heavy equipment. If planning to travel by air, then a roller bag is almost essential. The only con of the roller bag is the fact that they tend to be heavy due to their hard shell, wheels and handle. Similarly, as they afford such great protection, they cannot usually be compressed in order to fit into smaller spaces. This makes them less than ideal for those looking to save on weight.

Backpacks are a good option for those looking for an easy, convenient way to transport their equipment. They are perfect for those wishing to save on weight too. They usually work with your gear, having external pockets for your fins which themselves create an outer protective shell for the rest of your gear. They are also good for those having to transport heavy equipment over long distances by foot, or over undulating terrain where roller bags will not be able to operate.

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6 Best Dive Bags for Safe and Easy Transport of Scuba Diving Gear

6 Best Dive Bags for Safe and Easy Transport of Scuba Gear

If you’re looking to take your diving experience to a whole other level entirely, it pays dividends to invest in the best quality diving gear that your budget will allow for. In order to keep your diving gear and equipment safe and secure you’ll need somewhere safe and secure to store it. That somewhere is a diving bag. Diving gear does not come cheap, especially if you invest in good quality kit. Needless to say, you’re going to want to keep it in the best possible condition. This is where sourcing the best dive bags proves to be so useful.

Different bags are designed for different gear and different uses. Whether you’re embarking on a long scuba vacation, or are just enjoying a quick dive at the weekend, ensuring your kit and equipment is safe, secure, and protected from the elements is vital. The problem is finding the right bag for your diving goals and the kit that you own.

To make your search even easier, here’s a look at several of the best scuba diving travel bags for safe and easy transport of scuba gear.

Table of Contents

What to Look for When Buying a Dive Bag

Before we can take a look at some of the best dive bags currently on the market today, to help you find your dream dive bag before you next take to the water, here are some useful tips on what to look for when searching for the best scuba bags currently available.

The first thing you need to consider when you’re on the hunt for a dive bag is the size of the bag.

Think of what you need the bag for, and what type of gear you’re going to be carrying. For example, if you’re a casual diver, you’ll likely only have the basics and won’t be carrying as much gear as a seasoned tec diver for example.

If you don’t have much gear and only need a bag for the basics such as a wetsuit, snorkel, and perhaps some fins , you can get away with looking for smaller bags. On the flipside, if you’re serious about your diving and you carry a lot of gear and equipment, you’ll want a bigger bag with more storage.

Always remember to factor in extra space, because you never know when that extra space will come in handy.

Your Budget

Before you can get serious about shopping around for the best scuba diving travel bags, you are going to need to figure out a realistic budget.

Work out how much you can realistically afford to spend, and then start looking at bags within your price range. It’s no good looking at the most expensive and sophisticated dive bags on the market today, if you know for a fact that they are way outside of your price rice range.

Don’t assume that the most expensive are also guaranteed to be the best either. Some of the best dive bags come in at surprisingly low prices.

Bag Quality

Of course, this should go without saying, but when you’re on the market for the best dive bags, you should always look for a bag of the finest quality you can find.

Inspect the bag before buying and look for signs of obvious wear and tear. You should also try the zipper several times to make sure it opens and closes nice and smoothly, and that it doesn’t get caught or jam.

Any metal parts should be non-corrosive due to the sea water, and the materials of the bag should be sturdy, durable, waterproof, or water resistant if you don’t plan on getting the bag soaking wet.

This is perhaps one of the most important considerations when buying a dive bag, yet it’s also something that so many people tend to overlook.

When you’re carrying your bag, you need it to feel comfortable. If it has shoulder straps, try them and see how they feel. Ideally, they should be padded and should not dig into your shoulders at all.

You should also look for carry handles, bars, and even wheels with larger bags as these will all make it easier for you to pick up and carry your bag from A to B.

Make sure you try the bag with diving gear inside, as obviously that’s what you’ll be using it for in the first place. Just remember that your gear will also sometimes be wet, which means it’ll be heavier.

Best Dive Bags for Long Distance Travel

Now that you know what to look for when buying the best scuba diving travel bags, to make life even easier, here’s a look at 2 of the best dive bags for safe and easy transport of scuba diving gear for long distance.

These bags are sturdy, durable, and can easily be used as check-in luggage on long trips away.

Scubapro Caravan Gear Bag

Up first on our list today, we have what we think is one of the best scuba diving travel bags currently on the market.

The Scubapro Caravan Gear Bag is an ultra-strong diving bag that was developed to make life for divers as simple and as straightforward as possible.

Made from strong, durable, and robust 420D NT fabric, coil zipper closures, several grab handles, retractable top handle, and in-line roller skate quality wheels which are durable and saltwater resistant, you can get this bag, and more importantly, your gear inside, from A to B in no time at all.

There is even a removable ID card holder so you can rest assured that nobody will collect your dive bag from the airport by mistake.

Key Features

Ultra-strong scuba gear bag
Telescopic pull top handle
Numerous grab handles
Rustproof wheels on stainless steel axils
Engineered for prolonged use
Corrosion resistant coil zippers
Reinforced heavy duty design

What We Liked

If you want one of the best dive bags for keeping your gear safe and secure, this is the bag for you. We loved how robust and well-designed this bag is.
The removable ID holder is a simple, yet very nice touch that could save divers a lot of potential travel headaches in the future.

What We Disliked

Only a minor criticism, but the plain black design is perhaps a little dull.

XS Scuba Voyager 60 Roller Bag

Widely regarded as one of the best scuba diving travel bags we have the XS Scuba Voyager 60 Roller Bag.

Featuring heavy duty roller wheels that work on all terrain types, this bag offers everything you could ever want from a dive bag. With 5 handles, wheels, and external cinch straps, this bag also doubles as a backpack to make transporting your scuba gear easier than ever.

The Voyager 60 is one of the most reliable dive bags we’ve come across. It won’t rust, it can withstand the harshest of conditions, and it can easily be rinsed out after a dive, and left to dry quickly and efficiently.

For even better organization the bag even features internal fin straps so you can keep your fins held in position along the interior sidewalls of the bag. It’s the little touches like this that help make the Voyager 60 one of the best scuba diving travel bags currently on the market today.

The handy accessory pocket will also help keep smaller items, gadgets, gizmos, and valuables safe and secure, and separate from your main scuba gear.

Heavy duty, all terrain wheels
Carry handles
Comfortable cinch straps
Rust protected
Easy to clean after each dive
Internal fin straps
Aesthetic design
Made from a blend of 6 different forms of Polyester
Handy accessory pocket
Telescopic trolley handle for easy transportation
Spacious secondary compartment to keep fabrics separate from your dive gear
The secondary compartment for separating your dive gear from towels, clothing, and fabric materials is a very nice touch.
The all-terrain wheels really do cope well on a number of different surfaces which divers are likely to encounter.
The bag is a little heavy, weighing close to 9 pounds when empty, though the wheels and telescopic handle help alleviate these problems.

Best Mesh Day Bags and Backpacks for Diving

If you’re looking for more convenient bags and backpacks for your diving gear, these 4 should prove especially useful.

The dive bags listed below are lightweight, feature a mesh design for convenience of rinsing and drying your gear, and are perfect for day trips and more basic dives.

Scubapro Mesh N’ Roll Bag

If you want a no-nonsense, ‘does what it says on the label’ kind of dive bag, this is the bag you should be looking at.

If storage space is an issue for your diving kit, and you don’t want to have to deal with unzipping and zipping closed countless pockets and compartments when packing and unpacking your gear , the Scubapro Mesh N’ Roll Bag is absolutely perfect.

This is a large, mesh, duffle style travel bag that is perfect for transporting a wetsuit , along with a couple of sets of diving equipment at the very least.

This bag features a large, dual-zipper main compartment where you can store you gear in and remove easily thanks to the U-shaped opening. For extra storage however, there is also a zippered side compartment too.

As far as comfort goes, this bag features carry handles and fully adjustable padded top, a durable carry handle, and heavy-duty wheels for true ease of transportation. If transportation is one of your primary concerns, this is one of the best dive bags you could wish for.

To make life even easier, the bag is also fully submersible due to its fine mesh design, which means you can dunk it in the rinse tank at your dive site, or on the boat deck, to get all of the seawater and sea detritus off of it and your diving gear. It will then dry very quickly because of the PVC mesh and nylon material .

You can also use the bag as a regular travel bag before you reach your dive destination as well.

PVC mesh and nylon material
Heavy-duty wheels for easy transportation
Plenty of main storage space
Very simple and effective design
Fully removable and padded shoulder straps
Collapsible for easier storage
Spacey dual-zipper main storage compartment
Side zippered accessory compartment
Fully submersible
Mesh design for quick drying and ventilation
Drip dry handle
Plenty of storage space and very easy to open and close
The wheels make it very easy to transport
The bag is a little big and clunky

XS Scuba Coastal Deluxe Bag

Here we have the XS Scuba Coastal Deluxe Bag.

If you’re looking for a bag large enough to easily hold a full set of diving equipment, as well as a few accessories and extras for good measure, the XS Scuba Coastal Deluxe Bag is well worth checking out and could be exactly what you’ve been looking for. There’s a reason why it’s one of the best scuba diving travel bags currently on the market.

XS Scuba are renowned for making stylish and practical duffle bags as part of their Coastal Bags range, and this is a prime example of why they’ve proved to be so popular.

Whether you use them on dry land, in the sea, or even in the rinse tank after a successful dive, these duffle bags are great for divers looking for a bit more storage space and plenty of durability and resistance in the process.

Made from quick-drying fabrics such as abrasion resistant poly tarpaulin, along with snag and rip resistant polyester mesh, this bag has been built to withstand some real punishment, and has been built to last.

With a U-shaped opening, self-repairing zipper with two pull tabs, using this bag is effortless. There are even tarpaulin side panels to help keep your leg dry when you’re carrying wet gear. For added comfortable and ease of transportation you’ll also find triangle rings located on either side which will allow you to attach an optional shoulder strap, if you wish to do so.

Optional shoulder strap
Self-repairing zipper
Large U-shaped opening
Tarpaulin side panels to keep you dry when carrying wet diving gear
Large enough to store a full set of diving kit
Durable, hardwearing, snag and abrasion resistant polyester mesh material
Quick drying fabrics
Extra ventilation thanks to the mesh design
Rinse your kit while still in the bag
Hook to hang the bag to drip dry after a dive
Corrosion-free zippers that aren’t affected by the salt water
Top grab handles
The grab handles and optional shoulder strap make this a very comfortable and easy bag to transport.
Large storage capacity that will easily hold a full set of diving kit.
The bag didn’t dry quite as quickly as some of the others we’ve reviewed, though the difference in drying times is not a huge issue.

XS Scuba Seaside Pro

If you’re looking for a smaller bag for carrying basic diving kit, the XS Scuba Seaside Pro is the perfect backpack for you.

Available in yellow, red, pink, blue, or black, this bag features a mesh design, a very comfortable padded sling strap, grab handles at the top for easy transportation, and one of the most durable designs we’ve come across when looking at the best dive bags currently on the market.

This is a durable piece of kit that can be used as a dive bag for your diving gear, as well as a travel bag as you make your way to your dive. What’s even more impressive is the fact that the XS Scuba Seaside Pro also allows you to fully submerge the bag and your diving gear and rinse it off after your dive. You can then hang the bag up, complete with your gear inside, and leave it to drip dry and air itself off.

Padded shoulder sling strap
Mesh design
Grab handles at the top for convenient lifting
Rinse and dry you gear inside your bag
Thick tarpaulin bottom panel
Ideal for shorter, less demanding scuba dives
Lightweight design at just 12 ounces when empty
Stylish and modern design
Limited warranty of 24 months
The simple rinse and dry feature of the bag is great and very convenient
We loved the top grab handles which made it very easy to move the bag, especially when it was full of heavy gear.
The bag could have perhaps been a touch larger, though it still provides ample space for diving kit and essentials.

Deep See Heavy Duty Mesh Diver’s Bag

And finally, we have a fairly simple, no-nonsense dive bag that’s ideal for the more casual divers amongst you.

This Deep See Heavy Duty Mesh Diver’s Bag features a breathable mesh nylon design, an exterior pocket, again made from mesh and complete with loop closure and hook on the side of the bag, and D-rings for the optional shoulder strap that goes with it.

Featuring a typical tooth zipper opening, this is one of the more simpler diver’s bags currently on the market today.

The bag offers plenty of water resistance, a useful side pocket for smaller items such as keys and small parts, and is very well constructed and designed to hold basic dive gear.

While you probably wouldn’t use this bag for deep sea diving, for simple dives and shorter scuba trips, it’s a wonderful little bag that does everything that is asked of it, and a little more besides.

YKK tooth zipper opening
Useful side pocket
Durable nylon mesh material
2” nylon web straps
D-rings for optional shoulder strap attachment
Added strength and support thanks to the straps that span the entire length of the bag
12 month limited warranty
Very durable and breathable material that copes with moisture very well
Ideal for casual divers or smaller diving/snorkelling trips
The bag can be a little awkward and uncomfortable with the shoulder strap attachment fitted.

Final Thoughts

So, that brings our look at the best dive bags for safe and easy transport of scuba diving gear to a close.

As you can see, finding the right dive bag for you is not as simple as heading to your nearest diving store and grabbing the first bag you can find. There’s a lot to consider and there are a lot of bags out there to choose from, so finding the right one for you is vital.

Any of the 6 bags listed above come very highly recommended indeed, though be sure to try before you buy, and don’t forget to factor in exactly what kind of scuba gear you’re going to be carrying in the bag in the first place.

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Finding the Best Carry on Dive Bag – 5 Editor’s Picks!

Are you traveling for scuba holidays ? Before you go, you should get a carry on dive bag where you’ll stash all your gears. Nowadays, you can choose from roller bags, duffel bags, backpacks, or duo bags. As long as it’s fit for air travel, you’ll have peace of mind that all your gears are tucked safely on the overhead cabin.

The convenience of having you scuba gears in tow will give you peace of mind. Also, rest assured that your diving gears won’t be damaged in the check-in area.

Below, we reviewed five of the best options, regardless of how many gears you’re planning to get.

Why Should I Use a Dive Bag?

Many divers wonder if it’s really a necessity to purchase a scuba diving bag. Although you can rent some gears at a local dive shop, it still pays to get your own bag. Take note that some dive gears like flippers and wet/dry suits are better off brought than rented. These pieces should perfectly fit you, something that’s difficult to achieve when you’re just renting it out.

Besides, if you’re taking certification courses , you’re required to own several gears like boots, fins, gloves, masks, and so on. You need the right bag to store all these items to prevent damages. As you know, scuba gears aren’t the cheapest so you have to keep it in a safe bag while properly organized.

What to Look For in a Carry on Dive Bag

To find the best carry-on scuba diving bag, you must tick the following reminders off your list:

-Design

The first thing you have to check is the design of the bag you’re going to get. Nowadays, such bags come in different construction, but the following 6 styles are the most common:

Roller dive bags are very popular for traveling divers. Just like typical roller luggage, this one is easier to carry. Even if it’s fully loaded, you can easily maneuver it around, thanks to its wheeled construction.

The good thing about roller bags is you can get in full size to fit all your gears or in a carry-on version to bring it on the cabin with you.

Another option that you have is a duffel dive bag. It has several compartments as well as a large zip portion where you can stash a fairly large number of gears. It’s a simple option, though you’d have to lift it around.

As much as possible, you should look for one with many pockets and wet compartments for your gears.

**Backpack

Next, you can also opt for a backpack carry on for your dive gears. Although you’d have to carry it around, the weight is distributed equally all over your shoulders. It also frees your hands and allows you to handle other luggage.

Take note that some dive gear backpacks have wheels too so it can alternate as a roller type. The only challenge here is packing your gears right. Backpacks can weigh you down easily.

Mesh bags can come in any form like backpacks, duffel, and even rollers. However, since it’s a see-through design, it’s better off used as a boat bag during the actual dive.

**Drybag

Dry dive bags are simple: it has a tube-like design made of waterproof material. To keep it waterproof, you have to roll the top and clip it shut. This can be brought on cabin and the boat during your dive. It’s an all-around bag, but organization is challenging since it doesn’t have many compartments.

**Watertight bag

Watertight bags are hard-shelled rollers. It’s rugged and can take the beating of long travels. It prevents water from getting in so your gears stay dry. The only downside here is that watertight bags are bulky and heavy. You’ll be sacrificing a lot of allowed carry-on weight and size on this bag.

-Shape and size

Next, the carry on bag you’re going to get must pass the dimensions imposed by airlines. Each airline has its own specific dimensions about how large your carry on can be. Generally, the airline will allow a carry-on with maximum dimensions of 22 x 14 x 9 inches. This will vary in one to two inches, give or take.

Aside from that, airlines like Qantas, Philippine Airlines, and Virgin Atlantic have a weight limit in pounds. The first two airlines only allow a bag that’s a maximum of 15 pounds while Virgin Atlantic allows up to 22 pounds.

The shape is usually a personal choice. Nevertheless, it’s best to get one that can fit in the overhead cabin.

-Material

Dive bags can be made of a variety of materials like nylon, fabric, plastic, and metal. No matter what your choice is, always invest in durable and rugged options. Also, you should aim for one with a waterproof/water-resistant lining.

-Compartments

One of the most important considerations when shopping for any bag, for diving or not, are the compartments present on it. The more compartments there are, the better. We also recommend collapsible compartments so you can tweak the storage space of the bag.

It’s also excellent if the bag has a separate compartment for wet gears.

-Price point

The last consideration when purchasing a diving bag is its price tag. As much as you don’t have to spend a fortune, you shouldn’t skimp on quality too much either. When it comes to top carry on bags for diving, it pays to invest a few more dollars for quality.

Best Carry on Dive Bag – 5 Editor’s Picks!

Our #1 choice , our top pick: stahlsac steel roller dive bag.

Product Name: Stahlsac STEEL Roller Dive Bag

Product Description: If you’re looking for the best carry on dive bag, you won’t go wrong with the Stahlsac STEEL Roller Dive Bag. It’s 11” high and 16” wide with a water-resistant compartment to stash your used gears. The wet compartment is also breathable to avoid odor buildup. This bag has quick-access zippers as well as a changing pad for your convenience. There’s also an optional pack located on the designated compartment.

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON
Quality & Durability
Ease of Use
Price Point

Overall, this Stahlsac roller dive bag is low profile but rugged enough for long travels. It also comes with a strap where you can attach another bag.

We also like that it comes with side and top handles, aside from the telescoping handle. Paired with durable reinforcements, this bag will keep your gears safe inside. The zippers and closures of this bag are made to last long.

✔️Water-resistant lining

✔️Multiple handles for easy handling

✔️Quick-access pockets and compartments

❌It would be nice to have smaller pockets for small items

RUNNERS-UP: Cressi Strong Roller Dive Bag

Next, we recommend the Cressi Strong Roller Dive Bag. As a bag from a reputable scuba brand, this model will not disappoint your travels.

This has a wheeled construction with 400D fabric for a rugged quality. Still, it’s lightweight and very easy to carry around.

Inside, there’s a main compartment with three sides you can access easily. Below it, three are two other large pockets with zipper enclosures. If that’s not enough, there are also two side pockets where you can stash smaller items.

If you don’t like wheeling this thing around, you can use it as a backpack. It comes with two shoulder straps for your convenience. Just retract the handles and you can slip it to your back.

Overall, this bag has a capacity of 4 cubic feet, which can fit a lot of dive gears that you wish to bring.

Mares Cruise Scuba Roller Dive Bag

If you’re looking for another roller dive bag, we recommend the Mares Cruise Scuba Roller Bag. Like the one from Stahlsac, it has reinforcements to keep your dive gears intact. This has great maneuverability, too, which is great if you’re traveling long distances.

This comes with multiple compartments, a large one inside and smaller ones all over the body of the bag. There’s one zippered pocket at the upper portion where you can easily stash and retrieve your things.

Aside from that, there are fin pockets on this bag incorporated with a drainage system. Your dive gear will stay safe inside this bag.

Like the Cressi roller bag, this one from Mares comes with shoulder straps so you can use the bag as a backpack.

Just take note that the interior of this bag has a semi-hard shell. It may not be possible to compress this if you happen to be carrying fewer items.

TUSA Dive Gear Duffel Bag

Not a fan of roller bags? If so, you should get the TUSA Dive Duffel Bag instead. This is 28” long, 18” wide, and 14” tall. It has a water-resistant layer to keep your gears. Aside from that, it has a nylon mesh detail.

We really like that it has three handles as well as mesh drains. You can use this during your travel as well as a gear bag while on the boat.

On the outer side, you’ll get to use large zippered pockets. If you’re tired of carrying it around, you can use it as a roller bag, too. It has gliding wheels as well as a telescoping handle neatly hidden at the bottom of the bag.

This TUSA bag is made to endure the most rugged travels. It also comes with webbing so you can stash more items and keep it handy.

AKONA Globetrotter Carry-On Dive Backpack

For those looking for a carry on diving bag backpack, the AKONA Globetrotter is your best bet. It’s 21” high and 12” wide that can fit a great deal of dive gear. You can pack the essentials here like your mask, BCD, snorkel. And so on.

This comes with compression straps where you can secure your fins. However, it would have to stay outside the bag.

Although not a roller type, this carryon is a champ in storage. There are two small pockets in front as well as reinforcements that also double as fin holders.

Take note that this bag has a solid base with no holes. This means that you should only store dry items inside since it will not drain.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: is it practical to bring a carry-on dive bag on-cabin.

A: If you’re afraid of having your dive gears crushed on the check-in area of the plane, you can carry it on the cabin. Just make sure that the bag size is suitable according to airline regulations. Also, you should check the weight limit and if it’s allowed to carry specific gears on it.

Q: Which is better, a roller or a backpack dive bag?

A: If you don’t want to carry the weight of your dive gears, a roller bag is a great option. It’s also easier to carry around the airport. Just make sure that the wheels and handles are enough to last for years.

Q: Do I really need a bag for diving?

A: It allows you to secure your gears properly. It has special compartments and enclosures to house both dry and wet gears. Instead of using typical backpacks, we recommend that you get a dedicated dive bag to secure your dive equipment.

Conclusion

With a carry on dive bag, you can travel in peace knowing that your gears are in good condition. Just make sure that the bag suits your needs, budgets, and expectations.

What’s the Best Dive Bag to Pack Scuba Gear? Check Out These Picks!

Backpacks , LUGGAGE , Scuba Diving

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When packing for your next underwater adventure, what dive gear bag are you going to use? Check out these TFG picks for the best scuba luggage out there!

Best Dive Bags

Written By: Laura Pulling

Being a scuba diver, you are likely thinking about your next trip to enjoy underwater life, whether that be a road trip to the coast, visiting your local lake, or quarry, or a bucket-list international destination like the Galapagos or Great Barrier Reef.

And if you’re big on diving, you’ve also accumulated all the gear over time and want to be able to use it (why pay rental charges for something you already own!).

So how do you pack your dive gear effectively? You’ll need a purpose-built scuba bag that’s up to the job! Personally, I put my “expensive and essential gear” in my carry-on—regulators (in their own bag), dive computer, and mask (in a case), and then I pack my BCD, wetsuit, fins, and boots in my checked scuba gear bag .

Although nothing can stop you from using a regular suitcase for dive equipment, scuba dive bags are made to keep your specialist gear packed safely and with extra pockets that are quick-drying and great at keeping your equipment organized.

There’s a whole range of specifically designed scuba travel bags in the market and it can be confusing to know which one is right for you.

To help you mine the plethora of choices, check out these TFG picks for the best scuba bags to store all your gear!

Best Large Dive Roller Bag

Shop: Amazon

AKONA Rolling Dive Bag

AKONA rollers bags have a main compartment with three side openings and fins fit in designated side pockets. The front pocket has a zip closure for extra gear or regulators and can ‘pop out’ to put in your carry-on when flying.

All of the metal elements are made from stainless steel or bronze to avoid oxidation when used with wet or salty gear. This gear bag with wheels is a lighter version of their traditional roller pack.

Shop: Amazon

TUSA Dive Gear Lightweight Roller Bag

TUSA scuba roller bags carry a full set of dive equipment. The large opening gives you easy packing. The RD-2 is TUSA s newest roller duffle bag with large compartments and heavy-duty wheel system. This is the ultimate weekender bag that will haul your dive gear and extras wherever you go. Bag is made with a water resistant back to keep things dry until they need to get wet.

One user explains, “I bought 2 of these bags for a recent dive trip since our previous old dive bags were very worn and heavy (back when luggage limits were 75lb it didn’t matter how much the bag weighed). These pack easily – there’s not a lot of compartments that never get used – even the pouch on the end isn’t necessary. The wheels are sturdy and they roll nicely. The fin pocket on the outside will fit a pair of regular size fins – it’s tight but doable – but XL fins might not fit. I packed all my gear for a warm-water trip, including full set of regs, 3mm wetsuit, masks, fins, and a 5lb steel backplate and it was still under 45lbs. These bags traveled through the airline baggage system with no issues – even with TSA rooting through it on the return trip. My husband also commented that these were great bags and I had made a good choice. I’m looking forward to using these on many trips to come. “

Stahlsac Dive Luggage

Stahlsac dive bags are designed with reinforced compartments for your gear. It has heavy-duty wheels and stabilizers to keep the bag upright for when you have your precious equipment inside. It’s sized to accommodate a full set of dive gear, plus your personal items, so it’s the only bag you’ll need for one trip!

One user shares, “Just bought this bag for a dive trip to the Galapagos. It’s a very sturdy bag and holds all my gear and some. The zipper pulls are also big enough to use TSA cable locks on them which was a plus as well. Love the pink highlights as well.”

Aqua Lung Explorer II Roller Bag

These bright blue Aqua Lung dive bags with wheels will brighten up any diving day! Specifically designed for your scuba gear, the large side pockets let you slide in even the largest of fins, and the interior and exterior pockets help you to keep the rest of your gear organized.

The bag is made of heavy-duty polyester and the sturdy zippers are corrosion resistant.

It also has tough roller wheels and an extending handle for easy maneuverability.

Shop: Amazon | Walmart

TUSA Mesh Rollers Bag

This large TUSA bag will fit in two sets of gear, according to users. They have used it for travel and even checked it in on international flights. The large internal pocket is easily accessed with sturdy and secure zippers. The roller wheels mean carrying it is a cinch! Just drag it using the top handle (unfortunately, it’s not a telescopic style!).

One user explains, “Very well constructed and durable material. If you want a nice roomy dive bag, this is the one for you. It’s just super nice!”

Shop: Amazon | Walmart

Cressi Roller Luggage Bag

This Cressi extra large wheeled luggage is designed to transport your scuba equipment. The large compartment opens from three sides with a strong zipper, and there are additional pockets on the front, plus a fin pouch on the side.

The pull handle is fully retractable and the 300 and 400 denier fabric makes this bag light but super strong.

This is the best scuba travel gear for female divers!

Best Carry On Dive Bags

TUSA Roller Travel Scuba Gear Bags

This TUSA scuba dive luggage comes in different sizes, from a small carry on, to a medium, and then large checked sizes. Every size has a heavy-duty pull handle and rolling wheels. The zipper is secure and has buckle clips that go over the top, which hold the case shut, even if the zipper fails. It has a ton of pockets, both internal and external, plus straps to attach your fins to.

Mares Cruise Double Closure System Dry Bag

This Mares duffle bag fits airline carry-on size restrictions (but always check with your airline!). It has a unique design that allows it to be used as both a duffle bag or as a backpack, by converting the shoulder straps.

The bag itself has different compartments for storing your gear, z ipper closure removable laptop and gadget sleeve and adjustable chest and waist straps . One wearer says, “This is an awesome bag. Looks great and holds my BDC, 3 MIL suit, fins, mask, reg set, boots, gloves, weights, knife, flashlight and a bunch of other small accessories . Closes nicely and makes carrying so much better. “

Best Scuba Backpacks

Aqua Lung Explorer II Scuba Travel Bag

This Aqua Lung carry-on size backpack is diver approved! Its stylish design is packed with convenient features. It has two external pockets, one of which is mesh for keeping any wet gear. It has straps to attach your fins to the outside, plus comfy pegged shoulder straps for wearing on your back, which also converts into a duffle bag.

TUSA Mesh Diving Backpack

This TUSA mesh travel bag is stylish and generously sized. The main compartment has rubberized mesh sides that allow gear to dry easily. The bag has a uniquely designed opening zipper that allows you to put your gear in through a larger opening and there is an additional inside pocket for keeping smaller bits safe.

One owner of this bag shares, “ Great bag. Everything fits without the bag being too big and difficult to handle.”

Promate Snorkel Gear Bag

This Promate scuba diving backpack is the perfect size for snorkel equipment. It will fit in up to 27” fins, in the long fins shaped main pouch, plus smaller accessories, like your mask, knife, defog, and computer. If you rent the rest of your equipment, this bag is great for the essentials. It has a handy pocket on the front, plus bungee cords where you could store a towel or wet swimwear.

One reviewer uses hers for diving equipment and explains, “There’s such a pleasure in using a product that is well designed and thought out, and this bag is exactly that.”

Best Scuba Mesh Bag

Phantom Aquatics Mesh Snorkel Bag

This Phantom Aquatics mesh carry bag is a great value. The 27” by 10” nylon sack can hold your lighter scuba or snorkel gear together, fitting fins and masks inside. The mesh material dries super quickly as well.

Users say the straps can be uncomfortable on the shoulders when the bag is loaded with gear, but for the price, they still rate it super highly.

Stahlsac Bonaire Mesh Backpack

This large Stahlsac Bonaire mesh backpack can fit in your full set of dive equipment easily. There is a roomy space inside, big enough for a BCD, wetsuit, and fins! The mesh means you can rinse the gear through the bag with it all still inside with tough, snag-resistant mesh and 420 denier nylon packcloth with reinforced bottom.

For easy access, the bag has a top opening, plus a side zipper too. There are also a built in dry pocket!

Athletico Mesh Travel Bags

This simple Athletico mesh dive bag is made to fit your gear easily. If you plan on packing your dive equipment in your normal suitcase, this scuba gear travel bag folds up small and can transport your gear to the dive shop.

The mesh means it’s super quick-drying and you can put your wet gear straight inside without fear of water collecting. It’s large enough to fit an entire set of gear, and has convenient tote handles to carry it.

Mares Cruise Dive Mesh Bag

This large capacity Mares diving mesh bag will fit an entire set of dive equipment. The large pouch opens at the top with a drawstring closure. It has a smaller pouch on the front for storing your mask and dive computer.

When you aren’t using the bag, it completely folds down inside the small bag for storage. The shoulder straps are padded for comfort.

However, users do warn that this bag is almost too big, saying if you fill it to capacity with heavy dive pieces, they are wary of it tearing. So, be careful!

Cressi Mesh Duffel Bag

Cressi bags symbolize good quality, as they are a brand that specializes in watersports goods, and this high capacity duffle is perfect for storing and transporting your dive equipment. Roomy enough and strong enough for a full set of snorkeling, it is an ideal gear-hauler for live-aboard use or for carrying dive suits separately.

It folds compactly into a round bag with handle and is easy to store in your suitcase or main dive bag, ready when you need it.

These are five scuba diving essentials for a first time diver!

Best Dry Bag

Skog Å Kust DuffelSåk Waterproof Duffle Dry Bags

The Skog Å Kust DuffelSåk duffle is one of the toughest, heavy-duty travel bags available with 500D PVC. With its carry-on size, stowaway backpack straps, and zip splash-proof pockets, this is the most versatile dive pack on the market today. It’s designed especially for scuba, with fin straps that hold any size fin. Just grab the padded double handles & go. Or sling the cushioned strap over your shoulder. You can even use the attached D-rings to latch your DuffelSak to luggage & boat hooks. Available in 40L, 60L and 90L!

Earth Pak Dry Bag Backpack

These Earth Pak waterproof dive bags have a ton of additional features that dry bags don’t usually have. It has comfortable padded shoulder straps to wear it on your back ergonomically, a spacious 35-liter or 55-liter capacity, and there are extra pockets on the front and side (including a transparent phone pocket) to store small objects for easy access.

HEETA Waterproof Dry Bag

These HEETA dry bags are completely waterproof to keep your gear safe and dry during any adventures on the water. Available in different sizes, from 5 liters to 30 liters, you can get a small size that stores your phone and small essentials, or a large bag can keep towels and gear inside too. The colored bags are slightly transparent to help you find your things easily, but still opaque enough to keep your stuff covered!

Check out these scuba gear packing tips !

Best Scuba Regulator Bag

Scubapro Scuba Diving Regulator Bag

This Scrubapro Cruise bag is designed to keep your regulators safe and secure. The bag has a surprising amount of space, not just your regulator, but other small dive accessories. The shoulder strap is long and can be worn cross-body. It also features a small additional case for stowing your dive computer safely.

Athletico Dive Regulator Bag

This Athletico bag has a padded interior with a molded EVA foam hard-shell lid. The shape is rounded to allow you to roll your regulator hoses, without kinking them. Inside, it has a mesh pocket for keeping small parts or tools safe, plus inner straps to hold your regulators safely.

Oceanic Regulator Bag

The Oceanic Regulator Bag is the perfect bag for protecting your regulators and organizing your dive kit. Constructed with high-quality ballistic nylon and YKK zippers and covered by a lifetime warranty against any defects in materials or workmanship, this bag provides worry-free protection from the perils of travel.

Best Scuba Weight Bag

AKONA Weight Bag

Dive weights are heavy! An obvious statement, as they are made of lead and their purpose is to weigh you down. To pack your weights for a trip, you don’t want to ruin your normal backpack or diving bag. The AKONA weight bag is the easiest way to carry diving weights as it has heavy-duty handles, reinforced stitching, and a PVC coated base.

One user shares, “I’ve used this bag for several years with weights, many times the weights were wet and I didn’t remove them from the bag to dry. No rusting or damage to the bag.”

Best Scuba Mask Cases

WIN OUTDOOR Diving Mask Case

The WIN Outdoor mask case fits most standard dive masks and has a zip closure to keep them secure. The inside is lined with a softer material to ensure your mask doesn’t get scratched. It also has a handy carry clip to attach the case to your dive gear.

Innovative Scuba Concepts Dive Mask Case

This Innovative bag is just perfect for keeping your mask secure. There’s a pocket big enough for your diving mask and a side pocket to keep your defog in. The bottom of the bag has small drainage holes, and you can even loop your snorkel under the handle.

XS Scuba Mask Pocket Bag

This XS mask bag has a soft padded inside to keep your mask packed safely and securely. It has a mesh bottom for quick drying and loops on the back so you can keep your snorkel close too! The opening is velcro, which closes securely. As it is made of fabric, it fits in your luggage better than a plastic box for traveling.

Cressi Protective Scuba Mask Case

This Cressi box is as simple as they come. It’s a basic size box that keeps your mask from being scratched. Top clips keep the lid in place and the box is clear so you can see what’s inside. You can fit your mask and a bottle of defog inside easily.

Scuba Diving Bag Product Comparison Chart

What are your picks for best scuba diving travel bags ? Share with us in the comments below!

For more water activity gear tips, please read:

Best Womens Wetsuits for Surfing, Diving, and Swimming
Best Snorkel Masks and Scuba Masks for Women’s Oceanic Adventures
Best Scuba Diving Fins for Women to Tackle Any Aquatic Adventure
Best Rash Guards for Women to Scuba Dive, Snorkel, and Swim

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10 Best Dive Bags In 2023

Reviewed By Travis Turgeon / Scuba Editor

OUR TOP PICK

Athletico XL Mesh Backpack

Editors choice.

Athletico XL Mesh Duffel Bag

SDI Sport Gym Mesh Roll Bag

The top 10 dive bag in 2023.

1. Athletico XL Mesh Backpack
2. Athletico XL Mesh Duffel Bag
3. SDI Sport Gym Mesh Roll Bag
4. Kraken Aquatics Mesh Duffel Gear Bag
5. Cressi Gorilla Pro XL Bag
6. Mares Cruise Mesh Backpack
7. Cressi Moby 5 Trolley Bag
8. PROMATE Backpack Style Bag
9. ScubaMax Hard Nylon Mesh Duffel Bag
10. Meister Mesh Duffel Backpack Bag

Whether you are taking your scuba diving gear from your car to the dive boat or traveling around the world, you need a bag to carry your gear. To ensure that your equipment is safe and protected until you reach the dive site, you should consider getting a specialized dive bag.

Unlike standard bags, top-rated dive bags usually come with mesh walls that allow the water to drain so your gear can dry off. The mesh also helps to keep air circulating in the bag. Many dive bags are oversized to fit bulkier items like dive fins, your BCD, and wetsuits. In this article, we’ll take a close look at the best dive bags on the market and hopefully help you find a model that you can take on all your adventures.

The Athletico XL mesh dive backpack is large, comfortable, and well-organized – everything you need for packing all your diving gear. Its top opening and large side zipper give you quick access to the items you need, while the mesh sides allow water to drain and air to circulate. You can even put wet gear inside.

Construction and Design

Made from 600D polyester mesh and coated with PVC, the Athletico XL is guaranteed to last a long time. The shoulder straps are comfortable and easily adjustable, allowing you to carry even heavier loads comfortably. It’s also the only model that offers both top and side access which significantly increases the options you have when packing.

Additional Features

One of the most prominent features is the large zippered pocket on the back that is incredibly handy for holding a dive computer or a regulator. Furthermore, the backpack also comes with additional waist and sternum straps for easily distributing the weight. Last but not least, it’s one of the rare models with a built-in whistle for emergencies.

Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
Multiple inner and outer compartments for organizing gear
Drawstring top closure and a side zipper give you easy access
Adjustable chest and waist compression straps for weight distribution
The PVC-coated mesh is strong enough to hold a heavy load
Backpack design makes carrying gear more convenient

Best For: All Types of Scuba and Snorkel Gear Dimensions: 29 x 16 x 16 inches Material(s): PVC-coated 600D Polyester Mesh Weight: 2.5 pounds

Thanks to its 37-inch length and a very generous volume, the Athletico XL mesh duffel bag is perfect for extra-long fins and other bulky items. In addition to being spacious, the bag is also nicely organized and offers several zippered pockets for better gear distribution. On top of this, the 600D mesh makes it one of the toughest bags available.

The mesh on this bag is additionally reinforced with PVC so you won’t have to worry about tears and damage. On the other hand, it allows water and air to circulate freely, so you can easily rinse your gear and leave it inside to dry. To make carrying a little bit easier, the handles come with a Velcro lock that sits comfortably in the hand.

Perhaps the most useful feature on the Athletico XL dive bag is the zippered interior pocket which provides additional protection for your valuables and more sensitive items. Finally, we want to point out that the strong webbing straps go around the entire bag, providing additional support when carrying heavier gear.

Tote handles with a Velcro lock for easy carrying
A full-length zipper gives you convenient access
Zippered inner pocket for keeping valuables
Plenty of room for both small and bulky gear
One of the strongest dive bags on the market

Best For: Large and Bulky Items Dimensions: 37 x 15 x 15 inches Material(s): PVC-coated 600D Polyester Mesh Weight: 1.35 pounds

From diving and snorkeling to beach sports and gyms, the SDI Sport Gym mesh dive bag does a fantastic job of carrying wet gear. It’s entirely made from high-quality mesh, which means that you can put items inside without worrying that they get moldy. Besides, the bag is also very affordable and probably offers the best value for money that you can get.

Despite being on the lower end of the price range, the strength that you can expect from the SDI Sport dive bag can be compared to any other model on this list. The base material is a 600D polyester that is very tough on its own and even features a vinyl backing as reinforcement.

Unlike most other bags, this one comes with both tote handles and a shoulder strap. Thanks to this, you’ll have a couple of different options when carrying the bag. Even though it’s not particularly feature-rich, the addition that we like is the zippered side pocket that can keep smaller items within hand’s reach.

An excellent choice for all types of water sports
Impressive material quality relative to the price
Breathable mesh allows you to carry wet equipment
Equipped with both grab handles and a shoulder strap
Heavy vinyl backing increases the mesh bag durability

Best For: Carrying Wet Gear Dimensions: 20 x 10.5 x 10.5 inches Material(s): 600D Polyester with Vinyl Backing Weight: 4 ounces

Kraken Aquatics Mesh Duffel Gear Bag

A detail we like about the Kraken Aquatics mesh duffle bag is that it allows you to easily rinse the gear through the mesh and leave it inside to dry. On top of this, it’s available in two different sizes so you can choose a more compact and portable bag or a model that will easily fit even bulkier items.

The smaller of the two options measures 30 inches in length and has a side diameter of 13 inches, so it won’t take up too much space in your trunk. On the other hand, the XL version is 36 inches long and has a 16-inch diameter, allowing it to fit any type of fin inside.

The Kraken Aquatics mesh bags are designed as duffel bags with strong webbing handles that go around the entire bag for extra strength. Besides the grab handles, it also features an adjustable shoulder strap for easier carrying and keeping your hands free. Lastly, it comes with two zippered pockets – one on the outside for quick access and another one on the inside for additional protection.

Available in two sizes (30 and 36 inches long)
Allows you to rinse the gear through the mesh
Carry up to 35 pounds
Zippered inner pocket for stashing valuables
Padded shoulder straps make it easy to carry
Quick water draining and drying prevents mildew

Best For: Compact and Easy Storage Dimensions: 30 x 13 x 13 inches (Large), 36 x 16 x 16 inches (Extra-Large) Material(s): Nylon Mesh Weight: 6.4 ounces

Cressi Gorilla Pro XL Bag

Unlike all the other diving bags we’ve featured, the Cressi Gorilla Pro XL isn’t made from mesh. Instead, it comes with heavy-duty PVC walls that provide top-level protection for the sensitive items inside. To further improve strength, the bag features high-frequency welded seams.

For maximizing the usable space, the Cressi Gorilla Pro XL dive bag is shaped differently than other duffel bags and has completely vertical walls. Has a built-in dry bag. This, in combination with the length of 35.4 inches allows you to easily pack all the gear you need for the day.

When talking about the additional features, one thing stands out – the drain cap on the side. When opened, it allows the water to escape so you can wash your gear without removing it from the bag. Other interesting features include a water-resistant zipper, detachable tote handles, and side handles for easier manipulation.

Heavy-duty PVC construction for carrying heavy gear
Long main compartment for packing large fins
Drain cap on the side for rinsing and drying the bag
High-frequency welded seams prevent any leaks
A detachable grab handle makes carrying convenient

Best For: Extra-Long Fins Dimensions: 35.4 x 15.7 x 11.8 inches Volume: 4. 75 cu ft (135 liters). Material(s): Heavy-Duty PVC Weight: 3.5 pounds

Mares Cruise Mesh Backpack

If you plan to travel a lot with your gear, the Mares Cruise is the bag to choose from. It’s designed as a rugged backpack and features two padded adjustable straps that provide comfort while wearing. The three outer walls are made from mesh for air circulation, while the back is lined with a PVC panel to keep you dry when carrying wet gear.

Compared to the other scuba diving bags on this list, the Mares Cruise backpack size is a bit more compact. However, we feel that this is a great thing, especially for air travel. It’s 29 inches tall and has a 17-inch base which should be more than enough volume for all the necessary diving equipment.

In addition to the main top-loading central compartment, this bag also comes with a heavy-duty zippered pocket on the side. Made from full fabric instead of mesh, it can give extra protection to more sensitive gear like dive computers. We also want to point out that the backpack comes with a reinforced base that provides abrasion protection and increases durability.

PVC panel keeps you dry when carrying wet gear
Anti-skid base prevents tearing and abrasions
Padded external straps make carrying comfortable
Large outer pocket for computers and regulators
Drawstring top closure and a full-length lateral zipper

Best For: Traveling Dimensions: 29 x 17 x 16 inches Material(s): PVC, Nylon, Polyester Weight: 2 pounds

Cressi Moby 5 Trolley Bag

If you’re not a big fan of hauling heavy equipment, the Cressi Moby 5 has a solution – you can simply roll it. Equipped with large wheels and a strong handle, this rolling dive bag allows you to pull the gear as you would any standard suitcase. The bag itself is strong and comes with an abundance of pockets for organizing gear.

The walls of the Cressi Moby 5 trolley bag are made from a combination of 300 and 400D nylon that provides impressive strength and tear resistance. On top of this, the roller bag has very decent dimensions which result in a volume of 115 liters.

The focal point of this bag is certainly the oversized wheels which make it unique in the wheeled dive bags category. The handle we’ve mentioned is telescopic so you can push it out of the way when you don’t need it. As for the storage, the front has two zippered external pockets for handy access, while both sides have long vertical pockets for fin storage.

Roller dive bag equipped with large wheels
The telescoping handle makes it easy to pull the bag
Two large front pockets for items you need close to hand
Special long fin pockets on the sides of the roller bags
Three separate compartments in the main one (easier organization)

Best For: Heavy Gear Dimensions: 30 x 15.7 x 11 inches Volume: 115 liters Material(s): 300/400D Nylon Weight: 8.6 pounds

PROMATE Backpack Style Bag

The flat and compact design of the Promate backpack makes it an excellent option for freedivers and snorkelers. It’s only 5.5 inches thick, so it won’t take up much space in your trunk. However, even though it’s one of the smallest gear bags we’ve featured, it still has enough room for all the necessary snorkeling items.

Owing to the height of 28 inches, the Promate backpack easily fits fins that are up to 27 inches long. The entire bag is made from 600D nylon and reinforced with PVC so it won’t tear even if you put a lot of gear inside. Furthermore, it comes with mesh panels on the sides and front so the gear can dry inside without getting moldy.

Besides the mentioned mesh panels, the Promate backpack has a few other useful features. It comes with a large pocket on the front where you can stash your mask, as well as elastic bungee rigging which is very handy for stashing wet towels.

The compact size makes it great as a carry on bag
Zippered water bottle pouch on the front
Nylon mesh allows rinsing and drying gear
Elastic cords in the front for securing towels
Padded straps provide carrying comfort

Best For Small Dive Luggage Dimensions: 28 x 10.5 x 5.5 inches Material(s): 600D Nylon, PVC Weight: 1.7 pounds

ScubaMax Hard Nylon Mesh Duffel Bag

The ScubaMax nylon dive bag is the only model in our scuba backpack reviews that comes with dive flags on both ends. Thanks to this, it stands out from other bags. When talking about the bag itself, it’s a classic duffel model that has breathable mesh walls with PVC as reinforcement.

The design of the ScubaMax scuba gear bag is pretty classic when compared to other models, which is a good thing because you’ll know what you can expect. The side grab handles are strong and extend underneath the bag, while the mesh walls not only allow your dive equipment to dry inside, but also make rinsing possible.

In addition to the side flags we’ve mentioned, the ScubaMax travel dive bag offers several other features to improve the functionality. The front comes with a large mesh pocket with a Velcro closure that gives you a separate space for items you need close to your hand. Lastly, the dive gear bag also comes with an adjustable and removable shoulder strap for easier carrying.

PVC coating on the nylon mesh increases the strength
Dive flags on the side panels make you more visible
Large mesh pocket on the front for keeping items close
D-rings on both ends for attaching a shoulder strap
30-inch main compartment fits large fins and dive kit

Best For: Increased Visibility (Dive Flag) Dimensions: 30 x 16 x 16 inches Material(s): PVC-coated Nylon Mesh Weight: 1.55 pounds

Meister Mesh Duffel Backpack Bag

In terms of versatility, the Meister mesh dive bag is the most unique model in our reviews. While it’s primarily a duffel bag, the carrying straps are padded and adjustable so you can easily transform it into a diving backpack. Furthermore, its Chain mesh walls are one of the strongest on the market, allowing you to pack them with heavy items.

The Chain mesh walls are a lot thicker compared to other models, and it’s this thickness that gives them additional strength and resistance to tears and damage. At the same time, the bag is fully breathable which means that you can carry wet gear without it getting smelly or developing mildew.

The main feature of the Meister bag is its handles that can double as tote handles or backpack straps. On top of this, the other details worth noticing are the large zippered waterproof pocket on the side as well as a great interior volume for packing any type of equipment.

Large zippered dry pocket on the side for protecting sensitive items
Extra-tough Chain Mesh construction guarantees durability
Air and water circulate freely so your gear can dry easily
Spacious enough for fins, boots, computers, and other gear
Comfortable and adjustable backpack straps for easy carrying

Best For: Frequent Use Dimensions: 29 x 15 x 15 inches Material(s): Chain Nylon Mesh Weight: 2 pounds

Dive bags with wheels and shoulder straps allow you to comfortably carry your equipment in nearly any scenario, including the beach, pavement, gravel, and more.
Our dive bags are around saltwater most days, so be sure to buy a dive bag made from highly durable, quick-drying, and salt-resistant material.
alt content will quickly corrode a metal zipper in both the water and air, rendering them useless in a short time. Buying zippers made with corrosion-resistant materials will help to curb the degradation over time. Regardless of the material, though, always wash your gear with fresh water after being exposed to saltwater.

How To Choose The Best Scuba Diving Bag – Buying Guide

Types Of Scuba Dive Bags

The best scuba travel bags can be separated roughly into three categories – duffel bags, backpacks, and dive bags with wheels. Duffel bags are usually very compact and functional but can be inconvenient to carry when loaded with heavy gear. On the other hand, the argument for scuba diving backpacks as the best dive bags is that they are a lot easier to carry over long distances. Dive bags with wheels are best for divers that travel by air often.

Two things are important when choosing the size of your scuba travel bag – having enough room to fit all of your gear and staying compact enough so it easily fits into your car trunk or on an airplane. If you’re looking for a balance between the two, look for a bag that is 30 to 35 inches long.

Since the gear itself can be pretty heavy, you don’t want the bag adding too much to the equation. Because of this, we advise that you choose a model that is made from lightweight but reinforced mesh and doesn’t have too many unnecessary additions.

Handles and Wheels

Tote handles on duffel bags are the most common carrying option, but many divers don’t particularly like them because they can be hard on the hands. If you want to avoid this, getting a wheeled dive bag like the Cressi Moby 5 is an excellent idea especially if you’re traveling by air.

Storage Compartments

Instead of a single large compartment to cram all your equipment, the best scuba gear bags feature multiple compartments so you can organize your items easily. On top of this, we like it if the scuba diving gear bag comes with waterproof side pockets where you can stash small items and valuables.

Materials and Durability

High-quality materials are crucial when talking about any dive gear bags because they are going to see a lot of use in harsh conditions. Because of this, the best dive bags are usually made from nylon mesh that is coated with PVC. Furthermore, many models feature fabric reinforcements in strategic places to prevent tears and abrasion.

Corrosion-Resistant Zippers

No matter what you do, your diving travel bag will be exposed to saltwater. As the water dries and crystallizes, it can corrode and block a zipper which can render the bag useless. Because of this, look for high-quality zippers that can handle saltwater exposure.

Water Protection

Broadly speaking, most dive travel bags are not waterproof. Instead, they allow the water to freely circulate through the walls so the items inside can drain and dry off. About this, the only waterproof dive bag we’ve featured is the Cressi Gorilla Pro XL. If you want your gear to stay dry, we suggest you go with a waterproof duffel bag,

Related Reviews: Waterproof Duffel Bag & Waterproof Messenger Bag

Q: How Should I Pack My Bag?

You’ll want to start with your fins and lay them flat on the bottom of the bag. Your mask, snorkel, boots, and gloves will be next. Afterward, you should pack your BCD followed by your regulator and computer. Unless you decide to wear it for the boat ride, your wetsuit should go in the bag last.

Q: What Should I Pack In My Bag?

You should pack everything you need for the dive – a BCD, a wetsuit, fins, booties, a regulator, and a dive computer among other things. It’s ideal if the bag comes with separate storage compartments so you can easily organize the gear.

Q: Why Do I Need A Special Dive Bag?

The main reason for choosing a dive bag is that it comes with mesh walls that allow water to drain. Because of this, you’ll be able to put wet gear inside right after a dive and leave it to dry inside.

Q: What Size Should My Dive Bag Be?

It depends on several factors, mainly on the size of your gear and where you plan to take the scuba bag. It should be large enough to fit items like fins and suits. On the other hand, make sure you don’t go overboard with the size of your dive travel bag because it will be more difficult to handle.

Globo Surf Overview

Whether you’re only carrying a few items or a full diving set, the only way to ensure your gear stays protected is with the best dive bag. We hope that our reviews and guide helped find a model that will keep your scuba equipment safe on travels and allow you to take it anywhere you want to go.

More Scuba Reviews:

Dive Camera
Full Face Scuba Mask
Dive Watches Under 200
Dive Watch Under 1000
Dive Watches Under 500
Ladies Dive Watch
Underwater Scooter
Scuba Mask For Small Face

More Bag Reviews:

Kayak Deck Bag
Kiteboarding Bag

Underwater Essentials: Best Dive Bags for Your Gear

If you have spent the money to purchase dive equipment you are going to want to ensure you have the best dive bag to protect your gear in transit. Check out these recommendations for the best dive bags to make sure you have the right bag to meet your diving travel needs.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. By purchasing through these links, we get a small commission at no additional cost to you. *Oceans to Alpines is also a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Dive Bag or Normal Luggage?

When making your decision to purchase a bag to carry your dive gear the first decision you will have to make will be: dive bag or just normal luggage?

There are companies that make dive specific bag (big names like Akona and Cressi for example). The upside is that these bags will be designed for salty, or watery equipment. In addition, these bags are designed with pockets, and storage to carry all the large or little pieces of dive equipment. The rumored downside (since I have not personally met anyone this has happened to) is that labeled dive bags are more likely to be swiped or have equipment stolen.

To counteract the potential of getting equipment swiped, or saving some money, some divers opt for bags that are not manufactured by dive companies. These bags will be discreet, but may not have the size for some fins, or the organization for storing the various parts of dive gear. These can be more affordable than dive bags, just ensure that you purchase a sturdy bag that can hold up transporting heavy equipment.

Stahlsac is one of the best dive bags to look into for those wanting to have the luxury of a dive big organization, but a low key aspect for what you are traveling with.

Stahlsac is a smaller brand, meaning that most will not recognize the label on the bag as a dive company. However, the bags that Stahlsac manufacturers are the standard dive layouts with plenty of room and options of how to pack gear.

If you want the storage of a dive bag, but with some discretion, then this is a great option as one of the best dive bags.

Helly Hensen

This brand is a great option if you are avoiding the standard dive bag vibe. However, this is still a very popular brand name meaning that it will be recognized. The added note for this company though, is that the bag is sturdy and while not designed directly for diving is made by an outdoor company who is accustomed to accomodating the adventurous.

These make great dive bags due to the fact that some are hard on one side, and soft on the other making sure there is plenty of wiggle room while packing gear.

The bags are long enough to allow for a variety of fins at the bottom of the bag, and storing regulator set, mask, wetsuit, and BCD on top.

Want a popular and reliable brand? Look no further than a Samsonite to make one of the best dive bags. This bag comes in options that are either hard case, or soft.

If you want to ensure that your equipment is protected, and discreet. Then purchasing one of the Samsonite hard case bags is a great option for carrying dive gear on a dive trip.

The one downside for this brand is that you will be limited in the length of your fins. This is a standard size luggage case, meaning if you are diving with fins that are long then the fins will not fit in this dive bag. Ensure to check the length of the case against the length of your fins so that all your equipment will fit.

Eagle Creek

Another outdoor company, Eagle Creek offers divers several options of duffel bags that will be beneficial for those looking into the best dive bags.

These duffels will be able to fit numerous size of fins, and fit equipment on top, and then other vacation items on top of the dive equipment.

This is another pricey brand but offers plenty of storage space to fit dive equipment in a discreet duffel. Just be careful not to exceed the airline weight limit due to all the space available in these duffels.

Yet another outdoor brand!

The reason this is a great option for transporting dive gear is the fact that the company offers a lifetime warranty for their bags which means this can be an easy choice for a dive bag for many.

There are options for a wheeled duffel bag. Or if you want a bag that is multi-purpose, you may be able to fit dive gear into a large backpack but will be limited on the length of the fins.

Ultimately, the great aspect about this brand is the lifetime warranty protecting you from future purchases of luggage if this one is ripped or torn.

There is a variety of dive brands that make bags for the divers out there. If you are looking for some of the best dive bags, these are going to be some of the best options available.

These bags will be built to survive corrosion and to accommodate the variety of sizes of dive equipment.

Mares is a popular company and has some great roller bag options for divers to fit one, or two, peoples dive equipment into the bag. I met someone who was able to fit their equipment, and their significant other’s equipment into the larger roller bag.

The dive company offers a variety of bag options from the standard roller bag to a duffel bag option.

I bought my dive bag from Cressi and have been very happy with it. The bag has plenty of space for freediving fins, a BCD, regulator set, and two masks. In addition to this, I can pack all my vacation clothes in the bag with plenty of room. I have found all that equipment, and an extra set of fins in the side pockets and I am still within the weight limit at the airport.

Depending on how you pack, a lot of these dive bag companies larger bags can accommodate two-person equipment. So this is a great travel advantage to purchasing a dive company’s bag over other brands.

Cressi offers a roller bag option (which is what I opted for) or the option for a duffel bag. Check out the regulator set to ensure your equipment is well protected while traveling.

If you are looking for a variety of bag options this dive manufacturer creates a lot. From standard roller bag to the option of a duffel to carry all the gear.

This will give a variety of options for divers in bag selection. Selecting a bag from Akona provides divers with the comfort of knowing that the bag will withstand traveling and potential corrosion that comes with dive equipment.

If you are out traveling, you will see a number of people traveling with Akona bags.

I personally own the Akona regulator bag , as I like to ensure that my regulator set is well padded and protected even inside of my dive bag.

The Ocellaris, False Percula (Amphiprion ocellaris) Clownfish. The most highly recognized of the anemone fish after being featured in the pixar movie "Nemo". Helpful guide to identifying types of anemone fish.

Dive Deep: Identifying Anemonefish Types Revealed

If you love diving, or simply love the ocean, it is important to learn how to be an ethical diver. Participating in ethical diving is a goal that all serious divers should accomplish. We will focus primarily on how to conduct yourself during a dive, but also on how to make some life changes to help the ocean as well. #dive #travel #scuba

Dive Responsibly: A Guide to Ethical Diving Practices

Are you looking to improve your underwater photography? Want to capture that perfect photograph to share with friends, on Instagram, or website? Here are some great tips for an underwater photograph! These underwater photography tips will help you improve your photography and ensure you leave your dive vacation with some of the best photos. #dive #underwaterphotography

Beneath the Surface: Your Guide to Underwater Photography

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Durable: Made of heavy-duty, 1680D polyester and collapsible mesh. Zippers are corrosionresistant and zipper pulls are easy to grip. Two-year limited warranty
Designed for Scuba: The soft polyester mesh body folds down to the size of a sweatshirt for easy packing and travel. The large size accommodates any sized dive kit. The mesh body allows you to easily rinse your whole kit and let it dry while on the go. The removable padded shoulder strap makes hauling your gear a breeze
Customizable: The aqualung logo is printed on one end and one side. The remaining end and side are blank for you to customize
Size: 33 x 14" diameter (84 x 36cm)
Weight: 1.25lbs (0.6 kg)

Bring your dive equipment everywhere thanks to your travel bag. Find the one suited for your dive expeditions in our large range of diving bags.

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Dive Gear Bags & Luggage

The best dive bag keeps your scuba gear and snorkel gear protected, organized and easy to reach. Scuba luggage comes in a variety of shapes, sizes and styles to suit any type of travel and storage needs. At Divers Direct we stock the scuba gear bags we use ourselves by the brands we trust: Osprey, Armor, Aqua Lung, Mares, ScubaPro, and of course, exclusive EVO gear bags.

Scroll to the bottom of the page for our dive bag buyer's guide.

Dive Bag & Scuba Luggage Buyer's Guide

Backpack dive bags and luggage.

Backpack dive bags have straps like a regular backpack. They make a great choice for hands-free transport to and from the dive boat. Backpack dive bags are available in mesh, sturdy canvas and even as dry bags.

Mesh dive bags allow gear, fins and wetsuits to drain all of that water out. This prevents mold and mildew from setting in inside of the bag. The EVO Deluxe Mesh Backpack Dive Bag is made out of heavy-duty mesh and PVC-coated nylon. Other features include padded contoured straps, a reinforced bottom and a side handle. A drawstring closure and a large full-length side zipper provides easy retrieval of gear. Mesh material helps your gear dry faster, and, after a dive, you can rinse your gear through the bag if you're feeling lazy.

The Osprey Transporter line offers bags that can be carried as a backpack or as a duffel bag. Made out of 840D nylon, these bags are abrasion and weather-resistant. With a zippered end pocket, a large U-zip main compartment and an internal mesh pocket to stow all of your gear and valuables. Regulators, fins, masks and dive computers will stay secure while traveling through airports or from the dock to the boat.

Dry Dive Bags and Luggage

Dry bags are a must for any diver, boater or watersports enthusiast. Phones, cameras, dive computers and documents stay protected from water, salt and other elements. Dry bags come in a variety of sizes from small enough for keys and a phone to large enough to hold towels and a change of clothes. There are even insulated cooler dry bags. Typically made from durable tarpaulin material, dry bags come in backpack, lanyard or over-the-shoulder styles and have a fold-and-roll-top design for watertight use.

The Osprey Ultralight Drysack is an ideal choice for protection from water, sand, salt and humidity. It’s a hefty 30 liters in size, which can hold a large amount of electronics, camera equipment and other gear. It’s made out of 40D nylon ripstop waterproof fabric and has a roll-top with a buckle closure. The rectangular shape makes it easy to stow with your other items in the car or boat. Put Osprey's reputation for bulletproof durability between your precious gear and the elements!

Duffel Dive Bags and Luggage

Duffel dive bags are long and rectangular in shape. They can often hold more items than any other type of dive bag. This is very useful for packing, unpacking and when you only want one bag to tow back and forth. You’ll have everything with you in one place on the boat. Some duffel-style bags have interior pockets, which helps with storing small items. They come in mesh, hard canvas and dry bag fabrics.

Roller Dive Bags and Luggage

Roller dive bags are the best choice for traveling divers to navigate through airports, parking lots and hotels. They are very similar to traditional wheeled luggage in looks. What sets them apart from other luggage is that they often have special compartments to hold fins, masks, regulators and other dive gear along with your clothes and toiletries. Other features could include extending handles, exterior and interior pockets and grid systems to clip gear on the outside. Retracting wheels are a great feature as some dive boats won’t allow rolling bags on deck.

We love the Osprey Roller Transporter 120 , a wheeled duffel bag with plenty of space for all our dive gear that's still compact enough to maneuver through a crowded airport terminal, and rugged enough to see you through four years (and counting!) of around-the-world travel.

Tote Dive Bags and Luggage

A tote dive bag is perfect for snorkelers, freedivers or hookah divers who don’t have a lot of bulky gear. Long shoulder straps, zippers and large openings make stowing and retrieving quick and easy. Some are made of water-resistant fabric that can handle wet clothes and gear after the dive. The Yeti Camino Carryall Bag has a crossbar handle, in addition to shoulder straps, for easy transport. It also has a rigid EVA-molded bottom, a puncture-resistant shell and a Hitchpoint Grid System on the outside to clip gear, keys and other lightweight items. The Thickskin laminated extra can be hosed off for super easy clean-up.

Regulator Dive Bags and Luggage

Specialty bags keep your gear, like regulators and dive consoles, secure and protected from scratching and bumping against other gear in a large bag. They often have soft linings, interior pockets and Velcro straps to stash all of your valuable equipment. The ScubaPro Regulator and Computer Bag Duo has shoulder straps, padded handles and double sliding zippers for comfort and easy access to your gear.

We offer a large selection of dive bags and luggage to handle any adventure you might have.

$0 - $100 12
$100 - $300 15
$300 - $600 4

Osprey Transporter Wheeled Duffel 120 Gear Bag

ScubaPro Definition Duo 118 Travel Bag

Osprey Transporter Wheeled Duffel 90 Gear Bag

Osprey Transporter Wheeled Duffel 60 Gear Bag

Mares Cruise Buddy Roller Bag

Mares Cruise Backpack Roller Bag

Osprey Transporter Duffel 120 Gear Bag

Osprey Transporter Duffel 95 Gear Bag

Osprey Transporter Wheeled Duffel 40 Gear Bag

From $199.97 to $300.00.

Koah Element Speargun Bag (72in)

Osprey Transporter Duffel 65 Gear Bag

Osprey Transporter Duffel 40 Gear Bag

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18 Best Travel Backpacks, According to Frequent Flyers

By Gabrielle Porcaro

Best travel backpacks for women collage featuring six different backpacks on black and white background.

As someone who frequently travels, I've slung duffels, totes , and travel purses on my arm, but nothing compares to using the best travel backpacks. Depending on the length of your trip, a suitcase can either be too bulky or not big enough, so you'll need the vital second bag to make sure all your clothes, tech, and gear securely arrive at your destination. Plus, traveling with a backpack can be more supportive for your back, freeing up your arms and hands to pull out directions on your phone or to hold an iced coffee. Backpacks can also be surprisingly roomy, so everything you need (or want) on your trip fits as comfortably as possible. The good news is there are a wide range of excellent options to suit any and all of your needs. Below, we found the most travel-friendly options and tapped Glamour editors and some of our frequent-flier friends to share the best travel backpacks.

What to look for in a travel backpack

When shopping for luggage items like a travel backpack, the comfort and capacity of the bag is key. You want it to feel easy on the body, which means wide straps or a hip belt to distribute weight, which comes in handy if you're running to catch a plane or carrying it through a crowded subway. Bonus points if the straps are they adjustable and padded. Consider the material: Is it lightweight, soft, and made of durable material like water-resistant fabric? As for size, think about the use of the backpack. There are weekender bags and carry-on size options you can use for long weekends or smartly packed weeklong vacations and styles for short day trips, hikes, or shopping excursions.

The best travel backpacks, at a glance

Best Overall : Cotopaxi Allpa 42L Travel Pack , $210
Best on Amazon : Shrradoo Extra Large 52L Travel Laptop Backpack , $33
Best Daypack : Lululemon Everywhere Backpack , $78
Best Budget : Coofay Carry On Backpack , $30
Best for Commuters : Everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack , $95
Most Stylish : Tumi Voyageur Just in Case Packable Nylon Travel Backpack , $150

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

Best Overall : Cotopaxi Allpa 42L Travel Pack

Here's a simple, sleek backpack with plenty of built-in organization. “My twin sister and I have traveled the world together, and this bag came in particularly handy on our trip to South America when we both needed more room besides our carry-on luggage. What I loved about this piece is it's essentially a suitcase with straps. The wrap zipper fully opens up, allowing you to see and organize your goods into the compartments. Crafted in repurposed nylon, the exterior is one of a kind, and the colors made it easier to spot one another through the crowds,” says Glamour contributor Gabrielle Porcaro .

Capacity: 42 L / Waterproof : Water-resistant

Pros: Repurposed nylon body; suitcase layout; weight-distributing harness system
Cons: Can easily show dirt

Best on Amazon : Shrradoo Extra Large 52L Travel Laptop Backpack

As a runner-up, consider this the Swiss Army knife of backpacks. Hidden in this compact, durable bag are 20 pockets and compartments to accommodate and organize everything from clothes to an umbrella to power cords. A practical standout feature of this travel backpack is an external USB port with set-in charging cables to charge your phone (just remember to charge your power pack before heading out on your trip). Another noteworthy aspect is the U-shaped 3D breathable mesh straps designed to relieve stress from shoulders and reduce a sweaty back.

Capacity: 52 L / Waterproof : Water-resistant

Pros: So many pockets for organizing; USB charging port; comfortable
Cons: Chunky, technical look

Best Daypack : Lululemon Everywhere Backpack

Lululemon gets a lot of love for its Lulu leggings and activewear, but don't sleep on accessories like its laptop bags . A classic backpack with a modern design, the Everywhere Backpack has a clean appearance that will effortlessly match your look. Inside it's spacious and has a padded pocket that fits a 16-inch laptop. On the exterior is a front zipper pocket for keys, antibacterial wipes, headphones…whatever you need handy while on the go.

Capacity: 22 L / Waterproof : Water-repellent

Pros: Internal laptop sleeve; side water bottle pockets; lightweight
Cons: No luggage strap; not a ton of pockets

Best Budget : Coofay Carry On Backpack

This affordable, multifunctional pack is lightweight but can hold a lot and easily fit under an airline seat as a carry-on. “I loved the space and compartments of this bag. It's durable and packed a lot of room for so many things. The luggage handle strap is also a bonus if you're hauling a roller bag,” wrote one Amazon reviewer . Bonus: It has a shoes and a wet pocket compartment.

Capacity: 17 L / Waterproof : Yes

Pros: Separate shoe compartment, 29 color options; USB port design
Cons: Short luggage strap

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Best for Commuters : Everlane the ReNew Transit Backpack

Whether you're a college commuter or in the office most days, this is an excellent option for everyday travel or work trips. It's a go-to for Condé Nast associate director of box business operations Haley Welch . “The separate laptop compartment makes organizing seamless, as does the front and upper zipper compartments, which is great for a Kindle,” she says. She likes that the chic and minimal look effortlessly mixes with every outfit, from comfy travel joggers and hoodies to a work-appropriate suit or dress.

Capacity : 27 L / Waterproof : Water-resistant

Pros : Internal and external water bottle holders; zipper pocket on top; made from renewed materials
Cons : Only holds a 15-inch laptop

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Most Stylish : Best Tumi Voyageur Just In Case Packable Nylon Travel Backpack

For anyone looking for a dressier option for their everyday commute or regular work trips, Tumi has a gorgeous style. Don't let the sleek appearance fool you; the zipper reveals a very roomy interior but still folds flat. A two-way zipper makes it easier to grab whatever you need from the inside with a smaller front pocket as well. There’s also a very convenient add-to-a-bag sleeve to secure this nicely over your suitcase handle, making it one to use on daily and international excursions. It's so stylish it can double as a cute work bag for office days.

Capacity: 15"H x 12"W x 4 1/2"D. (Interior capacity: large) / Waterproof : Water-resistant

Pros :Packable; folds down flat; lightweight
Cons: Doesn’t fit a ton

Best for Organization : Snoffic Travel Backpack

If remaining organized is of the utmost importance while traveling or in everyday life, look no further than this North Face backpack. This wallet-friendly pick has a 4.6-star rating on Amazon and under $35 price tag. “I was able to pack a week's worth of summer clothes in it, which included two summer dresses," says one Amazon reviewer . Not only does this bag offer ample space and waterproof material, but it also includes two clear toiletry bags (also waterproof) to help you reduce your zip-lock baggie usage. Plus, it comes in a wide range of pretty shades.

Capacity : 40 L / Waterproof : Water-resistant

Pros : Nicely priced; roomy; includes two toiletry bags
Cons : Boxy shape

Best for Pockets : Athleta Excursion Backpack

This pick, courtesy of Glamour commerce editor Malia Griggs , is one that can hold every little trinket or gadget you own. “I thought this backpack was going to my go-to for hiking, but it’s actually my go-to for pretty much everything. I love how sleek it is, and yet, despite its slim appearance, it manages to fit my 15-inch laptop, my secondary screen, charger, headphones, e-reader, and mouse. It has handy organizational features, like an inner key ring, zippered outer pockets for me to stash my lip gloss and phone, and not one but two mesh pockets that fit my water bottle and an umbrella. Its handles are also made of a breathable fabric—so useful when I’ve worked up a sweat while out and about.”

Pros :Lightweight; ripstop material resists snags and tears; mesh back panel for added support
Cons: Larger on top shape

Best Minimalist Design : Dagne Dover Dakota Medium Neoprene Backpack

“On my last flight I saw not one, not two, but multiple travelers with this style hanging from their backs. As someone who regularly takes Dagne Dover bags on trips, I understand the popularity. The neoprene material is strong, soft, and stretchy, which causes the bag to flex to your body and whatever you put inside. It's forgiving, allowing you to fit in and possibly overstuff everything you need for a trip. It also washes well, ensuring it will always have that chic appearance even after some wear and tear,” says Porcaro. Dagne Dover also makes excellent diaper backpacks like this parent-approved Indi Diaper Bag .

Capacity: 16 L / Waterproof : No

Pros: Packs a lot; machine washable
Cons: Neoprene is a bit heavier than other material; material creases easily

Best for Airplane Travel : Augustnoa Classic Noa

“So many features drew me to this bag: the eco-friendly (plus water-friendly) material, smart design, and luggage sleeve—a must for any travel carry-on piece. There are ten pockets and compartments to organize essentials, something I took full advantage of when using. As an active person trying to hydrate more, I also appreciated the side pockets that securely held my water bottle (I bent over, and it didn't budge). It also includes a removable drawstring bag, something I always forget to pack for morning workouts and overnight travels,” says Porcaro.

Capacity: 21 L / Waterproof : Water-resistant

Pros: Pockets on straps; laptop and tablet sleeve; two water bottle holders
Cons: Pockets in the back and on straps are small

Best Roll Top : Roark Passenger 27L 2.0 Bag

Expandable storage is always a plus with any travel bag. This backpack, from super cool brand Roark, has an adjustable top to allow more room. The roll-top also has a magnetic entry, allowing for easy and secure access on the move. Interior and exterior pockets, including one for your tablet or laptop, sunglasses, and a hidden pocket for your passport, are specific details that make this a unique backpack. Ergonomic air mesh padded straps, a quilted back, and chest straps prevent this from adding any discomfort to your travels. The appearance calls for adventure, but it equally works in cities.

Capacity: 27 L / Waterproof : 100% Nylon

Pros: Streamlined look; quilted back; magnetic closure top
Cons: Could use more internal pockets

Best Large Travel Bag : Patagonia Black Hole Duffel 55L

The beauty of this bag is it says it right in the title—it's a black hole. With a 55-liter capacity, there's no doubt it will hold everything you need for a long weekend or even a long weekend trip. Ultra-comfortable to carry, it's perfect for hiking excursions, camping trips, or multi-city European backpacking adventures. Durably made with 100% recycled fabric, this fits in the overhead bin; if you want to check it, you can trust it will return to you just as you left it.

Capacity: 55 L / Waterproof : Water Repellent

Pros: Large, carry-on size, top and side handles; removable shoulder straps
Cons: Rugged design

Best for Laptop : Herschel Kaslo Dayback Tech Backpack

If you're looking for a laptop backpack , this is a top choice. Hershel backpacks are a go-to for marriage and family therapist and mom of two boys, Whitney Steller. “I have had this for almost six years, and the quality is amazing. No rips or anything and the straps are still comfortable. “The classic grade school look was also a draw and the fact that it fits perfectly under a plane seat. This style, in particular, is eco-friendly, made from post-consumer water bottles, and has a padded compartment to fit up a 15-inch laptop.

Capacity: 20 L / Waterproof : No

Pros: Optional strum strap to help disturbed weight; padded compartment for laptop
Cons: No luggage sleeve

Best Y-Pack : Topo Designs Y-Pack Backpack

This is an awesome option for anyone who ends up leaving a trip with more than they brought. “The adjustable Y-shaped strap can be tight and secure or loosened to allow for more room, which is the reason why this is a piece of heavy rotation for me. It always shocks me how much I can fit/shove into the main compartment yet still slide my laptop out of the back sleeve. No matter if it’s filled with a hoodie and various pouches holding makeup, power cords, and snacks; it's easy to access. I like to use the zip pocket on the top to store antibacterial wipes, hand sanitizer, headphones, and anything else I want easy access to once I arrive on the flight,” says Porcaro.

Capacity: 23.8 L / Waterproof : No

Pros: Drawstring closure offers more space; zip pocket on top for easy access; durable material great for travel and the outdoors
Cons: G-hook buckle closure can sometimes be tough

Best Waterproof : SealLine Skylake Dry Pack

The beauty of this piece is that it rolls up for easy packing within a suitcase or larger travel backpack. The fact that it's created from an extremely lightweight material also ups the packability and wear factor. Jen Ator, a personal trainer, used this on her honeymoon in Thailand. “Not only was it super sturdy and waterproof, but it fits everything we needed during day trips.” She also pointed out how handy the exterior pocket was for easy access to essentials like a phone to snap a picture of her and her husband.

Capacity : 18 L / Waterproof : Yes

Pros: Lightweight; stowable
Cons: No interior pocket

Best Convertible : Thule Crossover 2 Convertible Backpack

Adaptability is vital when traveling, and this Thule convertible backpack offers various ways to hold it. If you're in a tight space, de-boarding, or want to give your shoulders a break, there is a longer shoulder strap and top handle to hold. Inside the backpack, you'll find compartments that look like your favorite easy-rolling carry-on suitcase, making it easy to keep everything with you secure and organized. Another standout feature is the exterior crush-resistant SafeZone compartment that's perfect for storing sunglasses or a phone.

Capacity: 21 ¾"H x 14"W x 8"D. / Waterproof : Water Resistant

Pros: Crust resistant, two-way zip closure, RFID-shielded pocket;
Cons: Expensive

Best for City Travel : PAK Large Nylon Backpack

“As a backpack I recently added to my collection, I was impressed by how many features were hidden in what seemed like a pretty basic bag. First, it’s worth noting how seamlessly this slid on and off my back, making it a breeze to sit on the subway or grab my wallet to buy coffee. At first glance, I was confused about the zipper on the bottom of the front pocket, but when I realized it was a coat sling, which, as someone who runs cold and always has an extra layer, is something I will use again and again. Another made-for-me feature is an extra large pocket for water bottles since it’s a personal pet peeve when they aren’t wide enough for standard sizes. Having only worn this around the city for daily life, I appreciate that the shape and look of the pack are city-ready and more polished. When I take this on international trips, I look forward to using the hidden theft-proof compartments,” says Porcaro.

Capacity: 13.5”L x 7” W x 14” H / Waterproof : No

Pros: Easy access pocket in the back, Coat sling, Large side pockets
Cons: Not super large

Best Customizable : Roam Continental Backpack

Anyone who is a fan of customization will appreciate this pick. Buyers can choose the color they want on the front, back, side, and straps to create a bag that is uniquely theirs. This is favorite of Glamour commerce editor Jenifer Calle , who has been using it for years. “It fits enough for weekend trips and vacation travel. I particularly like that the side zippers fit my Owala water bottle and there are plenty of zipper and pockets to hold my wallet, keys, chargers, lip balms, and more” says Glamour’s Calle.

Capacity : 26 L / Waterproof : Water Repellent

Pros : Customizable; 100-day trial period; soft material; luggage sleeve
Cons : Expensive

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12 Travel Garment Bags to Look Good Everywhere

Be wrinkle-free everywhere you go

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

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

Best Quilted Garment Bag

Mz wallace michael garment bag.

Best Luxury Garment Bag

Tumi alpha garment bag trifold carry-on.

Best Garment Duffel

Halfday the garment duffel.

Best Timeless Garment Bag

Longchamp boxford garment bag.

Best Packable Garment Bag

Calpak packable garment bag.

Best Affordable Garment Bag

Amazon basics premium garment bag.

Best Durable Garment Bag

Hartmann metropolitan two-garment sleeve.

Best Personalized Garment Bag

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

Best Expandable Garment Bag

Samsonite ascella 3.0 softside expandable luggage.

Best Water-Resistant Garment Bag

Stitch ultimate garment bag.

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

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

Dimensions: 22" × 3" × 39"

Materials: Oxford, leather

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

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

Dimensions: 15" x 22" x 6"

Materials: Ballistic nylon

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

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

Dimensions: 22" x 12" x 12"

Materials: Polyester

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

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

Dimensions: 23.25" x 41.25"

Materials: Nylon, leather

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

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

Dimensions: 40" x 19"

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

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

Dimensions: 40" x 4" x 20.5"

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

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

Materials: Nylon

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

Mark & Graham Commuter 2-in-1 Garment Bag

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

Dimensions: 22" x 10" x 10"

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

Dimensions: 20.5" x 24" x 9.5"

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

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

Dimensions: 22.5" x 11.5" x 12"

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

Ralph Lauren Leather-Trim Hybrid Garment Duffel

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

Dimensions: 15" x 21.5" x 9"

Materials: Polyester, leather

Gucci Savoy Garment Bag

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

Dimensions: 21.5" x 16.1" x 6.7"

Materials: Canvas, leather, cotton

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The 20 Best Designer Bucket Bags

Best duffel bags for any excursion: Find the right bag for you

Your arsenal of luggage has most of the requisites: the clunky suitcase, the over-the-shoulder computer bag and even that old backpack from college you still use to this day. But what about a reliable duffel bag? You can’t lug your hard shell suitcase on your overnight casino resort trip, and that book bag is too small to function as a weekender. You need a proper duffel bag pronto! Read on for our picks for the best duffel bags out there.

What to consider when buying a duffel bag

Functionality.

How well your bag functions is the top priority when hunting for a quality travel duffel. "Packing cubes are a game changer for suitcases, as they keep all of your belongings organized and packed tightly inside," says co-CEO Audrey Kohout of shipping company Luggage Forward . "When a duffel bag has anything similar, it always makes me happy. A laptop sleeve, water bottle holder, or even a divider inside the main pocket to separate dirty and clean clothes can make a huge difference."

Another aspect of a duffel bag’s functionality that's often overlooked, says Kohout, is the number of straps. "Having lots of straps might feel like it offers versatility, but it can actually make travel more of a headache. Too many straps, handles and loops can just create more opportunities for it to snag on something, or get tangled with your neighbors’ luggage in the overhead compartment."

Durability of materials

Obviously, everyone wants a duffel bag made from sturdy materials — no one wants their bag to bust. "But different levels of durability are required if you’re taking your duffel on a Disney Cruise versus a multi-week camping trip," says Gemma Gaisano Ng, co-founder of luggage company No Reception Club .

"A good rule of thumb is to opt for nylon or polyester when you’re expecting your bag to work hard on your trip — it might be thrown around, put on the ground a lot, in various types of weather, stuffed to the brim, etc.,” Ng continues. “Alternatively, opt for all-over canvas or leather when you think you’ll be more careful with your bag for things like work travel, or trips where you expect your bag will mostly be placed on clean surfaces."

It’s paramount for your duffel bag to function optimally and be durable enough to withstand some dings here and there, but we can’t ignore the desire to also look good on our adventures. "Choose a bag that you'll be proud to carry," says Zon D'Amour, founder of Designed By D'Amour , a vegan duffel bag producer. "In my experience, people typically order bags from my company that they can customize for a personal connection, which includes embroidering their name, initials, or even their birthday. Many customers also appreciate being able to choose their favorite colors, oftentimes the colors of their alma mater, their sorority or fraternity. Choose a bag that's in alignment with your personal style."

Our picks for best duffel bags

Best weekend duffel bag: longchamp le pliage expandable travel bag.

Longchamp Le Pliage Expandable Travel Bag

If you want to pack all of your belongings in a duffel bag for a weekend trip, you’ll need plenty of space to fit your clothes, shoes and accessories. The Longchamp Le Pliage bag is expandable so it offers plenty of room when you need it, but it can also be made smaller for use as an everyday or overnight bag. This means that once you’ve unpacked, you can take it exploring for the day.

Specifications:

Dimensions: 13.8 inches high x 9.1 inches wide x 17.7 inches long.
Weight: 1.57 pounds.
Materials: Recycled polyamide canvas.
Number of colors: Five.
Price on publish: $275.

What we like:

Adjustable strap up to 19.7 inches.
Expandable for extra space.
Exterior zipper pocket.

What we don’t like:

Nothing — this bag works perfectly for any weekend getaway.

The AP Buyline takeaway:

A sturdy and reasonably-priced duffel bag with an exterior zipper pocket, a padded shoulder strap and carry handles.

Get it here: Longchamp Le Pliage Expandable Travel Bag

Best lightweight duffel bag: Cotopaxi Chumpi 35L

Cotopaxi Chumpi 35L

This bag is made from repurposed nylon and so lightweight you might forget it’s there. It has a huge zipper and one main pocket so you can see everything inside, making it quick and easy to grab what you need. Cotopaxi is known for their fun colors and craftsmanship, so this is also the perfect bag for a bold person who wants to make a statement!

Dimensions: 19 inches long x 11 inches high x 11 inches wide.
Weight: 2 pounds.
Materials: Polyester.
Number of colors: Colors vary.
Price on publish: $115.
Unique, eye-catching design.
External zippered stash pocket.
Removable backpack straps and shoulder sling.
Doesn’t include a water bottle pocket.

A lightweight, durable and vibrantly-colored duffel that stands out in the crowd and on airport baggage carousels.

Get it here: Cotopaxi Chumpi 35L

Best budget duffel bag: Eddie Bauer Stowaway 45L

Eddie Bauer Stowaway 45L Duffel

This affordable tote provides top-tier features like a shoe compartment, trolley sleeve and water-resistant construction at a competitive price. It even packs into itself, making it one of the more travel-friendly options on the market. You’d be hard-pressed to find better at this price range, especially from a legacy brand like Eddie Bauer.

Dimensions: 23 inches long x 11.75 inches high x 11.75 inches wide.
Weight: 0.85 pounds.
Number of colors: Eight.
Price on publish: $27.50.
Packs down to 9.5 x 9 inches.
Water repellent.
Exterior zippered shoe pocket.
Only one interior compartment.

A practical bang-for-your-buck duffle that can keep all your stuff dry.

Get it here: Eddie Bauer Stowaway 45L

Best duffel bag for commuting: Béis The Commuter

Béis The Commuter

Béis understood the assignment when they designed this sleek and sophisticated gem. More unique than your average travel duffel bag, this design is professional enough to carry into the office but handy enough for commuting thanks to an internal laptop sleeve, external pockets to keep that train pass handy and a trolley pass-through for suitcase compatibility on business trips.

Dimensions: 21.5 inches long x 12 inches high x 9 inches wide.
Weight: 3.15 pounds.
Materials: Nylon, polyester.
Number of colors: Two.
Price on publish: $138.
Multiple exterior pockets.
Vegan leather details.
Padded laptop pocket with velcro closure.
Not many colors to choose from.

A sleek and water-resistant duffel bag with multiple features and compartments that will keep you well organized.

Get it here: Béis The Commuter

Best compact duffel bag: Dagne Dover Landon Carryall

Dagne Dover Landon Carryall

This duffel bag can double as a small gym bag thanks to its plethora of interior pockets and integrated laptop sleeve. "As someone who has taken more than 60 flights on one airline alone in a single year, I know the impact a good travel bag can have," says Kohout. "I’ve tried dozens of different kinds of luggage over the years for trips including cruises, backpacking adventures, business travel, ski weekends and beyond, and the Landon Carryall is the one that I continue to grab for."

Dimensions: 12 inches long x 7.5 inches high x 6 inches wide.
Weight: 1.7 pounds.
Materials: Neoprene.
Number of colors: 11.
Price on publish: $150.
Adjustable crossbody strap.
Detachable key leash and zip-top pouch.
Roomy interior with mesh pockets and tablet sleeve.
Nothing — thousands of customers agree, too, since the bag’s reviews are virtually all five stars!

A practical and versatile bag that can transition smoothly from daily commute to the gym and weekend wandering.

Get it here: Dagne Dover Landon Carryall

Best gym duffel bag: Lululemon Wunderlust Weekender

Lululemon Wunderlust Weekender Bag 48L

Lululemon knows workout gear, and this handsome on-the-go bag is a fan favorite for a reason. It features standalone compartments for shoes and sweaty gear, combined with an external strap for a jacket or yoga mat, making it convenient for any exercise setting.

Dimensions: 21.7 inches long x 13 inches high x 10.6 inches wide.
Weight: Not listed.
Materials: Not listed.
Number of colors: One.
Price on publish: $198.
Sporty design.
Exterior pockets keep water bottle and sweaty gear separate.
Some customers remark that the shoulder strap is weak and uncomfortable.

A sporty and nicely-designed bag that’s functional, but has a somewhat hefty price for its limited features.

Get it here: Lululemon Wunderlust Weekender

Best waterproof duffel bag: Yeti Panga 50L

Yeti Panga 50L

This waterproof duffel bag is the definition of rugged. It can handle all types of weather and terrain thanks to its durable nylon and EVA copolymer construction, making it the perfect outdoor adventure buddy. It’s also puncture-proof, making it the ideal option for keeping your belongings together in the roughest conditions.

Dimensions: 24.8 inches long x 10 inches high x 14 inches wide.
Weight: 5.2 pounds.
Materials: Nylon and EVA copolymer.
Number of colors: Three.
Price on publish: $300.
Waterproof at one meter depths for up to 30 minutes.
Puncture-resistant.

A waterproof fortress for all your hiking, camping and fishing gear, built tough enough for the great outdoors.

Get it here: Yeti Panga 50L

Best carry-on duffel bag: Patagonia Black Hole 55L

Patagonia Black Hole 55L

This duffel bag maximizes your available space while remaining flight- and travel-friendly. "Personally, I love this bag for its backpack straps," says Kohout. These straps give you an added carrying style that’s great for on the go, but lay flat when you’re not using them. The bag is also small enough to meet carry-on requirements and has one big pocket to hold plenty of clothes for a long weekend.

Dimensions: 22.8 inches long x 13.3 inches high x 9.5 inches wide.
Weight: 2.6 pounds.
Materials: Polyester, nylon.
Price on publish: $169.
Meets airline carry-on requirements.
Sturdy, reinforced exterior.
Haul handle and backpack carry options.
Not many interior pockets for carry-on items.

A well-built duffel bag suitable as a carry-on, if you don’t mind a shortage of interior pockets for organization.

Get it here: Patagonia Black Hole 55L

Best overnight duffel bag: Topo Design Mountain Gear

Topo Design Mountain Gear

Don’t let the name mislead you: This bag isn’t just for the mountain. It’s the perfect day trip or overnight bag, in fact, thanks to its huge main pocket that can fit anything from a few outfit options to helmets and even snow boots (yes, it’s that big). It also has plenty of compact pockets around the outside that can hold smaller gear like chargers, keys, or water bottles.

Dimensions: 20 inches long x 14 inches high x 10.5 inches wide.
Materials: Nylon, vinyl.
Number of colors: Four.
Price on publish: $149.
Easy-carry grab handles.
Large main compartment with mesh pockets.
A little oversized for some purposes.

A large and functional bag that you can easily toss all your overnight essentials into and grab and go.

Get it here: Topo Design Mountain Gear

Best duffel bag with wheels: Ogio Terminal Travel Bag

Ogio Terminal Travel Bag

"A rolling duffel bag should be robust enough to withstand being wheeled over rugged surfaces as well as carried, and should be easy to maneuver whichever way you need to," says Giacomo Piva , cofounder of global luggage network Radical Storage . "The Ogio Terminal bag provides a lot of room, making it a good choice for road trips or outdoor adventures. It also has plenty of compartments to fit enough clothing, shoes and toiletries for longer trips."

Dimensions: 13 inches long x 29 inches high x 13 inches wide.
Weight: 10.6 pounds.
Materials: Nylon.
Price on publish: $239.99.
Wide range of colors.
Multiple grab handles.
Two large external pockets.

A heavy duty duffel bag that’s on the girthy side, but with wheels and a rugged chassis that neither concrete or cobblestone can stop.

Get it here: Ogio Terminal Travel Bag

How we selected the best duffel bags

We enlisted four top experts in the travel and luggage industry for their professional insight on choosing the best duffel bags. We also conducted extensive research into the expert’s choices and screened several customer reviews for those picks.

What is the difference between a duffel bag and a travel bag?

“As the name suggests, travel bags are specifically designed with on-the-go travel in mind,” Kohout states. “They’re usually a bit smaller, easier to carry around, and often have features to make your airport experience simpler. Duffel bags can be a great piece of luggage for travel, too, but they’re intended to be more versatile for other activities in addition to travel.”

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Are duffel bags suitable for air travel?

Of course! And, according to D’Amour, duffel bags are a smart choice as carry-ons. “We've all heard of, or may have experienced, flights being delayed for various reasons,” she says. “So I typically keep a day's worth of ‘emergency’ clothes and toiletries in my duffel bag, as well as my computer, a book, snacks, etc.”

Can I use a duffel bag as my primary luggage for extended trips?

“You can absolutely use a duffel as your main bag for longer trips, especially those with multiple compartments,” says Kohout. “As long as you can fit all your belongings into the duffel of your choosing, there’s no reason why it can’t serve as your go-to luggage. Many brands even offer the same duffel in several different sizes, so you can choose what best suits your needs.”

Why are duffel bags better than suitcases?

Actually, one isn’t better or worse than the other. “It really boils down to what you’re using it for, what you’re packing, and how long you’re packing for,” says Kohout. “A lot of people love duffel bags because they offer more structure with separate sections for things. They also have convenient zipper pouches for smaller items, and can be easy to carry for those who can’t stand wheeling a suitcase around.”

How do you pack a duffel bag?

Duffel bags can be packed in various ways, according to the travel occasion. “As a fashion designer who's also an entertainment journalist, I often take my duffel bags to press junkets and get ready on site,” D’Amour states. “So, I'll typically put my toiletry bag on top, laptop in the middle, clothes at the bottom, shoes on the side. Packing a duffel is like a puzzle: You want to maximize space and evenly distribute the weight.”

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Home » Europe » Moscow

EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)

Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit!

Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city each year! Although the warmer months make exploring Moscow’s attractions more favorable, there’s just something about a fresh snowfall that only enhances the appearance of the city’s iconic sites!

If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or simply wanting to see as much of the city as possible, this Moscow itinerary will help you do just that!

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Best Time To Visit Moscow

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Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Moscow!

The summer months (June-August) are a great time to travel to Moscow to take advantage of the enjoyable mild temperatures. This is considered peak travel season. Bear in mind that hotel prices rise along with the temperatures!

If you’re planning a trip to Moscow during fall (September-November) try to plan for early fall. This way the temperatures will still be pleasant and winter won’t be threatening.

Russian winters (December-February) are not for the faint of heart as Napoleon learned to his peril. Some days the sun will be out for less than an hour, and snow is guaranteed. Although winters are exceptionally cold, this is when you’ll get a true glimpse of the Moscow experience!

The best time to visit Moscow is during spring (March-May). The temperatures will begin to creep up and the sun begins to shine for significant portions of the day. Hotel rates will also have yet to skyrocket into peak ranges!

With a Moscow City Pass , you can experience the best of Moscow at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Moscow is a large city with many accommodation options to choose from. Staying in a location that fits with your travel plans will only enhance your Moscow itinerary. Here is a brief introduction to a few great areas of the city we recommend checking out!

The best place to stay in Moscow to be close to all the action is Kitay-Gorod. This charming neighborhood will put you within walking distance to Moscow’s famous Red Square, thus cutting down on travel time. This will allow you to see more of the city in a shorter amount of time!

It’s surrounded by restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or just planning a quick weekend in Moscow, then this area is perfect for you!

Another great area to consider is the Zamoskvorechye district. This area of the city offers a blend of new and old Moscow. It has an artsy vibe and there are plenty of fun sites you can explore outside of the main touristy areas of Moscow.

Of course, as in all areas of Moscow, it’s close to public transportation that will quickly connect you with the rest of the city and make your Moscow itinerary super accessible!

Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Modern and cozy, this apartment is in the heart of Old Moscow. Bordering the Basmanny and Kitay-Gorod districts, this two-bedroom flat is walking distance to the Kremlin and Red Square. Safe, quiet, and comfortable, this is the best Airbnb in Moscow, no question!

Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel

The Izmailovo Alfa Hotel is a very highly rated accommodation that provides all the components necessary for a comfortable trip to Moscow. There is an on-site restaurant, bar, fitness center, and an airport shuttle service. The rooms are modern and spacious and are equipped with a TV, heating/air conditioning, minibar, and more!

Best Luxury Hotel in Moscow – Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre

If you’re touring Moscow in luxury, the Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre is the hotel for you! Elegantly furnished rooms are equipped with a minibar, flat-screen TV, in-room safes, as well as tea and coffee making facilities! Bathrooms come with bathrobes, slippers, and free toiletries. There is also an onsite restaurant, bar, and fitness center.

Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station. Guests will enjoy all the usual hostel perks such as self-catering facilities, 24-hour reception, Free Wi-Fi, and security lockers. This is one of the best hostels in Moscow and its wonderful social atmosphere and will make your vacation in Moscow extra special!

An important aspect of planning any trip is figuring out the transportation situation. You’re probably wondering how you’re going to get to all of your Moscow points of interest right? Luckily, this sprawling city has an excellent network of public transportation that will make traveling a breeze!

The underground metro system is the quickest and most efficient way to travel around Moscow. Most visitors rely exclusively on this super-efficient transportation system, which allows you to get to pretty much anywhere in the city! It’s also a great option if you’re planning a Moscow itinerary during the colder months, as you’ll be sheltered from the snow and freezing temperatures!

If you prefer above-ground transportation, buses, trams, and trolleybuses, run throughout the city and provide a rather comfortable alternative to the metro.

Moscow’s metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses are all accessible with a ‘Troika’ card. This card can be topped up with any sum of money at a metro cash desk. The ticket is simple, convenient, and even refundable upon return to a cashier!

No matter which method you choose, you’ll never find yourself without an easy means of getting from point A to point B!

Red Square | Moscow Kremlin | Lenin’s Mausoleum | St. Basil’s Cathedral | GUM Department Store

Spend the first day of your itinerary taking your own self guided Moscow walking tour around the historic Red Square! This is Moscow’s compact city center and every stop on this list is within easy walking distance to the next! Get ready to see all of the top Moscow landmarks!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square

Why it’s awesome: The Red Square is the most recognizable area in Moscow, it has mesmerizing architecture and centuries worth of history attached to its name.
Cost: Free to walk around, individual attractions in the square have separate fees.
Food nearby: Check out Bar BQ Cafe for friendly service and good food in a great location! The atmosphere is upbeat and they’re open 24/7!

The Red Square is Moscow’s historic fortress and the center of the Russian government. The origins of the square date back to the late 15th century, when Ivan the Great decided to expand the Kremlin to reflect Moscow’s growing power and prestige!

During the 20th century, the square became famous as the site for demonstrations designed to showcase Soviet strength. Visiting the Red Square today, you’ll find it teeming with tourists, who come to witness its magical architecture up close!

The square is the picture postcard of Russian tourism, so make sure to bring your camera when you visit! No matter the season, or the time of day, it’s delightfully photogenic!

It’s also home to some of Russia’s most distinguishing and important landmarks, which we’ve made sure to include further down in this itinerary. It’s an important center of Russia’s cultural life and one of the top places to visit in Moscow!

In 1990, UNESCO designated Russia’s Red Square as a World Heritage site. Visiting this historic site is a true bucket-list event and essential addition to your itinerary for Moscow!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin

Why it’s awesome: The Moscow Kremlin complex includes several palaces and cathedrals and is surrounded by the Kremlin wall. It also houses the principal museum of Russia (the Kremlin Armory).
Cost: USD $15.00
Food nearby: Bosco Cafe is a charming place to grat a casual bite to eat. They have excellent coffee and wonderful views of the Red Square and the Moscow Kremlin!

The iconic Moscow Kremlin , also known as the Kremlin museum complex, sits on Borovitsky Hill, rising above the Moscow River. It is a fortified complex in the center of the city, overlooking several iconic buildings in the Red Square!

It’s the best known of the Russian Kremlins – citadels or fortress’ protecting and dominating a city. During the early decades of the Soviet era, the Kremlin was a private enclave where the state’s governing elite lived and worked.

The Kremlin is outlined by an irregularly shaped triangular wall that encloses an area of 68 acres! The existing walls and towers were built from 1485 to 1495. Inside the Kremlin museum complex, there are five palaces, four cathedrals, and the enclosing Kremlin Wall with Kremlin towers.

The Armoury Chamber is a part of the Grand Kremlin Palace’s complex and is one of the oldest museums of Moscow, established in 1851. It showcases Russian history and displays many cherished relics. Definitely make sure to check out this museum while you’re here!

The churches inside the Moscow Kremlin are the Cathedral of the Dormition, Church of the Archangel, Church of the Annunciation, and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki (a church tower).

The five-domed Cathedral of the Dormition is considered the most famous. It was built from 1475–1479 by an Italian architect and has served as a wedding and coronation place for great princes, tsars, and emperors of Russia. Church services are given in the Kremlin’s numerous cathedrals on a regular basis.

The Grand Kremlin Palace was the former Tsar’s Moscow residence and today it serves as the official workplace of the President of the Russian Federation (Vladimir Putin seems to have bagged that title for life) .

Insider Tip: The Kremlin is closed every Thursday! Make sure to plan this stop on your Moscow itinerary for any other day of the week!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum

Why it’s awesome: The mausoleum displays the preserved body of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin .
Cost: Free!
Food nearby: Khinkal’naya is a charming Georgian restaurant with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick. It’s a popular place with locals and right next to the Red Square!

Lenin’s Mausoleum, also known as Lenin’s Tomb, is the modernist mausoleum for the revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin. It’s located within the Red Square and serves as the resting place for the Soviet leader! His preserved body has been on public display since shortly after his death in 1924.

It’s located just a few steps away from the Kremlin Wall and is one of the most controversial yet popular Moscow attractions!

Admission is free for everyone, you’ll only need to pay if you need to check a bag. Before visitors are allowed to enter the mausoleum, they have to go through a metal detector first. No metal objects, liquids, or large bags are allowed in the mausoleum!

Expect a line to enter the building, and while you’re inside the building, you’ll be constantly moving in line with other visitors. This means you won’t be able to spend as long as you’d like viewing the mausoleum, but you’ll still be able to get a good look. Pictures and filming while inside the building are strictly prohibited, and security guards will stop you if they see you breaking this rule.

The mausoleum is only open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday – unless it’s a public holiday or a day scheduled for maintenance. The hours it’s open for each day are limited, make sure to check online before you visit to make sure you can fit this into your Moscow itinerary for that day!

Insider Tip: The Lenin’s Museum is there for people to pay their respect; remember to keep silent and move along quickly, it’s not intended for people to congregate around. Also, men are not allowed to wear hats and everyone must take their hands out of their pockets when inside the building.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – St. Basil’s Cathedral

Why it’s awesome: A dazzling designed cathedral that showcases Russia’s unique architecture. This cathedral is one of the most recognizable symbols of the country!
Cost: USD $8.00
Food nearby: Moskovskiy Chaynyy Klub is a cozy cafe serving food items and pipping hot tea; it’s the perfect place to go if you’re visiting Moscow during the winter months!

Located in the Red Square, the ornate 16th-century St. Basil’s Cathedral is probably the building you picture when you think of Moscow’s unique architecture. Its colorful onion-shaped domes tower over the Moscow skyline!

The cathedral was built from 1555-1561 by order of Tsar Ivan the Terrible. It was designed with an iconic onion dome facade and enchanting colors that captivate all who see it. Fun fact: If you’re wondering why Russian churches have onion domes, they are popularly believed to symbolize burning candles!

This iconic cathedral has become a symbol of Russia due to its distinguishing architecture and prominent position inside the Red Square. It’s one of the most beautiful, wonderful, and mesmerizing historical cathedrals in the world!

The interior of the church surprises most people when they visit. In contrast to the large exterior, the inside is not so much one large area, but rather a collection of smaller areas, with many corridors and small rooms. There are 9 small chapels and one mausoleum grouped around a central tower.

Visiting the inside is like walking through a maze, there are even small signs all around the cathedral tracing where to walk, and pointing you in the right direction! The walls are meticulously decorated and painted with intricate floral designs and religious themes.

The church rarely holds service and is instead a museum open for the public to visit.

Insider Tip: During the summer months the line to go inside the cathedral can get quite long! Make sure to arrive early or reserve your tickets online to guarantee quick access into the cathedral!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store

Why it’s awesome: This is Russia’s most famous shopping mall! It’s designed with elegant and opulent architecture and provides a real sense of nostalgia!
Cost: Free to enter
Food nearby: Stolovaya 57 is a cafeteria-style restaurant with a variety of inexpensive Russian cuisine menu items including soups, salads, meat dishes, and desserts. It’s also located inside the GUM department store, making it very easily accessible when you’re shopping!

The enormous GUM Department Store is located within the historic Red Square. It has a whimsical enchantment to it that sets it apart from your typical department store.

A massive domed glass ceiling lines the top of the building and fills the interior with natural sunlight. There are live plants and flowers placed throughout the mall that give the shopping complex a lively and cheerful feel! A playful fountain sits in the center, further adding to the malls inviting a sense of wonder and amusement!

The GUM department store opened on December 2, 1893. Today, it includes local and luxury stores, including Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and many more! There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and even a movie theater inside!

For a special treat, head into Gastronom 1. This 1950s-style shop sells gourmet food items, like wine, freshly-baked pastries, cheese, Russian chocolate, and of course, vodka! Also, be on the lookout for a bicycle pedaling ice cream truck with an employing selling ice cream!

The ambiance is simply amazing, a trip to this idyllic shopping mall is an absolute must on any Moscow itinerary!

Insider Tip: Make sure to carry some small change on you in case you need to use the restroom, you’ll need to pay 50 rubles – or about USD $0.80 to use the bathroom in GUM.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Novodevichy Convent | Gorky Park | State Tretyakov Gallery | All-Russian Exhibition Center | Bolshoi Theater

On your 2 day itinerary in Moscow, you’ll have a chance to use the city’s excellent public transportation service! You’ll explore a few more of Moscow’s historic highlight as well as some modern attractions. These sites are a little more spread out, but still very easily accessible thanks to the metro!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent

Why it’s awesome: The Novodevichy Convent is rich in imperial Russian history and contains some of Russia’s best examples of classical architecture!
Cost: USD $5.00
Food nearby: Culinary Shop Karavaevs Brothers is a cozy and simple place to have a quick bite, they also have vegetarian options!

The Novodevichy Convent is the best-known and most popular cloister of Moscow. The convent complex is contained within high walls, and there are many attractions this site is known for!

The six-pillared five-domed Smolensk Cathedral is the main attraction. It was built to resemble the Kremlin’s Assumption Cathedral and its facade boasts beautiful snowy white walls and a pristine golden onion dome as its centerpiece. It’s the oldest structure in the convent, built from 1524 -1525, and is situated in the center of the complex between the two entrance gates.

There are other churches inside the convent as well, all dating back from many centuries past. The convent is filled with an abundance of 16th and 17th-century religious artworks, including numerous large and extravagant frescos!

Just outside the convent’s grounds lies the Novodevichy Cemetery. Here, you can visit the graves of famous Russians, including esteemed authors, composers, and politicians. Probably the most intriguing gravestone belongs to Russian politician Nikita Khruschev!

The Novodevichy Convent is located near the Moscow River and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city. In 2004, it was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The convent remains remarkably well-preserved and is an outstanding example of Moscow Baroque architecture!

Insider Tip: To enter the cathedrals inside the complex, women are advised to cover their heads and shoulders, while men should wear long pants.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

Why it’s awesome: A large amusement area in the heart of the city offering many attractions!
Cost: Free!
Food nearby: Check out Mepkato, located inside Gorky Central Park for a casual meal in a cozy setting. There are indoor and outdoor seating options and the restaurant is child-friendly!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is a large green space in the heart of Moscow. The park opened in 1928, and it stretches along the scenic embankment of the Moskva River. It covers an area of 300-acres and offers a lovely contrast from the compact city center.

You’ll find all sorts of wonderful attractions, from boat rides to bike rentals to tennis courts and ping-pong tables, and much more! there are an open-air cinema and festive events and concerts scheduled in the summer months. A wide selection of free fitness classes is also offered on a regular basis, including jogging, roller skating, and dancing!

Although many of the options you’ll find here are more suited for outdoor leisure during the summer, you’ll also a selection of winter attractions, including one of Europe’s largest ice rinks for ice-skating!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

If you’re trying to decide what to do in Moscow with kids, the park also offers several venues designed specifically for kids. Check out the year-round Green School which offers hands-on classes in gardening and art! You can also feed the squirrels and birds at the Golitsinsky Ponds!

The park is very well maintained and kept clean and the entrance is free of charge, although most individual attractions cost money. There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the park.

With so many attractions, you could easily spend all day here! If you’re only planning a 2 day itinerary in Moscow, make sure to plan your time accordingly and map out all the areas you want to see beforehand!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery

Why it’s awesome: The gallery’s collection consists entirely of Russian art made by Russian artists!
Food nearby : Brothers Tretyakovs is located right across the street from the gallery. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric restaurant serving top quality food and drinks!

The State Tretyakov Gallery was founded in 1856 by influential merchant and collector Pavel Tretyakov. The gallery is a national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the most important museums in Russia!

It houses the world’s best collection of Russian art and contains more than 130, 000 paintings, sculptures, and graphics! These works have been created throughout the centuries by generations of Russia’s most talented artists!

The exhibits range from mysterious 12th-century images to politically charged canvases. The collection is rich and revealing and offers great insight into the history and attitudes of this long-suffering yet inspired people!

All pictures are also labeled in English. If you plan to take your time and see everything inside the museum it will take a good 3-4 hours, so make sure to plan your Moscow trip itinerary accordingly! This gallery is a must-see stop for art lovers, or anyone wanting to explore the local culture and history of Russia in a creative and insightful manner!

Insider Tip: When planning your 2 days in Moscow itinerary, keep in mind that most museums in Moscow are closed on Mondays, this includes The State Tretyakov Gallery!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center

Why it’s awesome: This large exhibition center showcases the achievements of the Soviet Union in several different spheres.
Food nearby: Varenichnaya No. 1 serves authentic and homestyle Russian cuisine in an intimate and casual setting.

The All-Russian Exhibition Center is a massive park that presents the glory of the Soviet era! It pays homage to the achievements of Soviet Russia with its many different sites found on the property.

The center was officially opened in 1939 to exhibit the achievements of the Soviet Union. It’s a huge complex of buildings and the largest exhibition center in Moscow. There are several exhibition halls dedicated to different achievements and every year there are more than one hundred and fifty specialized exhibitions!

The Peoples Friendship Fountain was constructed in 1954 and is a highlight of the park. The stunning gold fountain features 16 gilded statues of girls, each representing the former Soviet Union republics.

The Stone Flower Fountain was also built in 1954 and is worth checking out. The centerpiece of this large fountain is a flower carved from stones from the Ural Mountains! Along the side of the fountain are various bronze sculptures.

You will find many people zipping around on rollerblades and bicycles across the large area that the venue covers. It’s also home to amusement rides and carousels, making it the perfect place to stop with kids on your Moscow itinerary! Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and allow a few hours to explore all the areas that interest you!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater

Why it’s awesome: The Bolshoi Theater is a historic venue that hosts world-class ballet and opera performances!
Cost: Prices vary largely between USD $2.00 – USD $228.00 based on seat location.
Food nearby: Head to the Russian restaurant, Bolshoi for high-quality food and drinks and excellent service!

The Bolshoi Theater is among the oldest and most renowned ballet and opera companies in the world! It also boasts the world’s biggest ballet company, with more than 200 dancers!

The theater has been rebuilt and renovated several times during its long history. In 2011 it finished its most recent renovation after an extensive six-year restoration that started in 2005. The renovation included an improvement in acoustics and the restoration of the original Imperial decor.

The Bolshoi Theater has put on many of the world’s most famous ballet acts! Tchaikovsky’s ballet Swan Lake premiered at the theater in 1877 and other notable performances of the Bolshoi repertoire include Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker!

Today, when you visit the theater, you can expect a magical performance from skilled singers, dancers, and musicians with the highest level of technique!

If you don’t have time to see a show, the theater also provides guided tours on select days of the week. Tours are given in both Russian and English and will provide visitors with a more intimate look at the different areas of the theater!

The stage of this iconic Russian theater has seen many outstanding performances. If you’re a fan of the performing arts, the Bolshoi Theater is one of the greatest and oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, making it a must-see attraction on your Moscow itinerary!

Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station.

Towels Included

Cosmonautics Museum | Alexander Garden | Ostankino Tower | Izmaylovo District | Soviet Arcade Museum

Now that we’ve covered what to do in Moscow in 2 days, if you’re able to spend more time in the city you’re going to need more attractions to fill your time. Here are a few more really cool things to do in Moscow we recommend!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

Hear the timeline of the ‘space race’ from the Russian perspective
This museum is fun for both adults and children!
Admission is USD $4.00

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a museum dedicated to space exploration! The museum explores the history of flight, astronomy, space exploration, space technology, and space in the arts. It houses a large assortment of Soviet and Russian space-related exhibits, and the museum’s collection holds approximately 85,000 different items!

The museum does an excellent job of telling the full story of the exciting space race between the USSR and the US! It highlights the brightest moments in Russian history and humanity and is very interesting and fun for all ages!

If you’re a fan of space or just curious about gaining insight into Russia’s fascinating history of space exploration, make sure to add this to your 3 day itinerary in Moscow!

The Alexander Garden

A tranquil place to relax near the Red Square
Green lawns dotted with sculptures and lovely water features
The park is open every day and has no entrance fee

The Alexander Garden was one of the first urban public parks in Moscow! The garden premiered in 1821 and was built to celebrate Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s forces in 1812!

The park is beautiful and well maintained with paths to walk on and benches to rest on. The park contains three separate gardens: the upper garden, middle garden, and lower garden.

Located in the upper garden, towards the main entrance to the park is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with its eternal flame. This monument was created in 1967 and contains the body of a soldier who fell during the Great Patriotic War!

The park stretches along all the length of the western Kremlin wall for about half a mile. Due to its central location in the city, it’ll be easily accessible when you’re out exploring The Red Square.

It provides a bit of relief from the city’s high-energy city streets. Bring a picnic lunch, go for a walk, or just sit and people watch, this is one of the best Moscow sites to wind-down and relax!

Ostankino Television Tower

Television and radio tower in Moscow
Currently the tallest free-standing structure in Europe
Make sure you bring your passport when you visit, you can’t go up without it!

For spectacular views of the city, make sure to add the Ostankino Television Tower to your itinerary for Moscow! This impressive free-standing structure provides stunning views of the city in every direction. The glass floor at the top also provides great alternative views of the city!

It takes just 58 seconds for visitors to reach the Tower’s observation deck by super fast elevator. The tower is open every day for long hours and is a great site in Moscow to check out! There is even a restaurant at the top where you can enjoy rotating views of the city while you dine on traditional Russian cuisine or European cuisine!

The tower is somewhat of an architectural surprise in a city that is not known for skyscrapers! To see the city from a new perspective, make sure to add this stop to your Moscow itinerary!

Izmaylovo District

The most popular attractions in this district are the kremlin and the flea market
Outside of the city center and easy to reach via metro
Most popular during the summer and on weekends

Travel outside the city center and discover a unique area of the city! The Izmaylovo District is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and one of the coolest places to see in Moscow! The two main attractions we recommend checking out are the Kremlin and the flea market.

The Izmailovo Kremlin was established as a cultural center and molded after traditional Russian architecture. This colorful complex is home to several single-subject museums, including a Russian folk art museum and a vodka museum!

Next to the Kremlin is the Izmailovo open-air market, which dates back to the 17th century! The market is connected to the Izmailovo Kremlin by a wooden bridge. Pick up all your Russian souvenirs here, including traditional handicrafts, paintings, books, retro toys, and Soviet memorabilia!

You will find many hand-made and hand-painted options available at higher prices, as well as mass-produced souvenir options at lower prices!

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

Closed on Mondays
Filled with old arcade games that visitors get to try out!
The museum also includes a small cafe and burger shop

For something a little different, check out the Museum of Soviet Arcade Games! The museum features roughly 60 machines from the Soviet era, including video games, pinball machines, and collaborative hockey foosball! The machines inside the museum were produced in the USSR in the mid-1970s.

The best part is, most of the games are still playable! Purchase tickets and try the games out for yourself! The museum also has a neat little screening room that plays old Soviet cartoons and an area with Soviet magazines! This unique attraction is a fun addition to a 3 day itinerary in Moscow, and an attraction that all ages will enjoy!

Whether you’re spending one day in Moscow, or more, safety is an important thing to keep in mind when traveling to a big city! Overall, Moscow is a very safe place to visit. However, it is always recommended that tourists take certain precautions when traveling to a new destination!

The police in Moscow is extremely effective at making the city a safe place to visit and do their best to patrol all of the top Moscow, Russia tourist attractions. However, tourists can still be a target for pickpockets and scammers.

Moscow has a huge flow of tourists, therefore there is a risk for pickpocketing. Simple precautions will help eliminate your chances of being robbed. Stay vigilant, keep your items close to you at all times, and don’t flash your valuables!

If you’re planning a solo Moscow itinerary, you should have no need to worry, as the city is also considered safe for solo travelers, even women. Stay in the populated areas, try and not travel alone late at night, and never accept rides from strangers or taxis without a meter and correct signage.

The threat of natural disasters in Moscow is low, with the exception of severe winters when the temperature can dip below freezing! Bring a good, warm jacket if you visit in Winter.

However, please note that Russian views on homsexuality are far less accepting than those in Western Europe. Likewise, Non-Caucasian travellers may sadly encounter racism in Russia .

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Moscow

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Now that we’ve covered all the top things to see in Moscow, we thought we’d include some exciting day trips to other areas of the country!

Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)

On this 7-hour guided tour, you’ll visit several scenic and historic areas of Russia. Start your day with hotel pick-up as you’re transferred by a comfortable car or minivan to Sergiev Posad. Admire the charming Russian countryside on your drive and enjoy a quick stop to visit the Russian village, Rudonezh!

You’ll see the majestic Saint Spring and the Church of Sergiev Radonezh. You’ll also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, one of the most famous Orthodox sites in Russia!

Lastly, you’ll swing by the local Matreshka market and enjoy a break in a nice Russian restaurant before returning to Moscow!

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

On this 13-hour trip, you’ll discover old Russia, with its picturesque landscapes and white-stoned beautiful churches! You’ll visit the main towns of the famous Golden Ring of Russia – the name for several cities and smaller towns north-east of Moscow.

Your first stop will be in the town of Vladimir, the ancient capital of all Russian principalities. The city dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest and the most important towns along the Ring! Next, you’ll visit Suzdal, a calm ancient Russian town north of Vladimir with only 13,000 inhabitants!

The old-style architecture and buildings of Suzdal are kept wonderfully intact. If you’re spending three days in Moscow, or more, this is a great option for exploring the charming areas outside the city!

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

On this 9-hour private tour, you’ll explore the ancient town of Zvenigorod, one of the oldest towns in the Moscow region! As you leave Moscow you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery along the Moscow River, and make a few stops at old churches along the way to Zvenigorod.

Upon arrival, you’ll explore the medieval center, including the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery. Next, you’ll take a break for lunch (own expense) where you’ll have the chance to try out the Russian cuisine! Next, you’ll visit the Museum of Russian Dessert and sip on tea at a Russian tea ceremony.

The final stop of the day is at the Ershovo Estate, a gorgeous place to walk around and enjoy nature!

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage and Faberge

On this full-day tour, you’ll enjoy a a full round trip to St Petersburg where you’ll spend an exciting day exploring another popular Russian city! You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Moscow and be transferred to the train station where you’ll ride the high-speed train ‘Sapsan’ to St Petersburg.

Upon arrival, you’ll start the day by touring the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace. Next, you’ll visit the Faberge Museum, where you’ll explore the impressive collection of rare Faberge Eggs! In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing boat ride and a traditional 3-course Russian lunch.

If you’re spending 3 days in Moscow, or more, this is an excellent trip to take!

Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

On this 10-hour tour, you’ll escape the city and travel to the historic town of Kolomna! First, you’ll visit the 14th-century Kolomna Kremlin, home to the Assumption Cathedral and an abundance of museums!

Next, enjoy lunch at a local cafe (own expense) before embarking on a tour of the Marshmallow Museum – of course, a marshmallow tasting is provided! Your final stop is the Museum of Forging Settlements, where displays include armor and accessories for fishing and hunting.

Discover this beautiful Russian fairytale city on a private trip, where all of the planning is taken care of for you!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Moscow itinerary.

How many days you need in Moscow?

We recommend that you spend at least two or three days in Moscow to take it all in.

What’s the best month to visit Moscow?

The best time to visit Moscow is over the spring, from March to May as temperatures are mild, crowds are thin and prices are reasonable.

What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?

I mean, queuing up to see an almost 100 year old corpse is pretty unsual! Check out Lenin’s Mausoleum if you fancy it!

What are some fun things to do in Moscow?

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a fun place to explore the famous space race from the perspective of the ‘other side’!

We hope you enjoyed our Moscow itinerary! We’ve made sure to cover all the Moscow must-sees as well as some unique attractions in the city! Our addition of insider tips, favorite food stops, and day trips from Moscow is an added bonus and will guarantee you make the most out of your exciting Russian vacation!

Immerse yourself in the modern and traditional Russian lifestyle! Get lost in museums, witness awe-inspiring architecture, and indulge in Russian cuisine! Spend the day strolling through all of the charming sites of Moscow, admiring the beautiful scenery and discovering the city’s fairytale-like enchantment!

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

Alya and Campbell

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The Best Weekender Bags for Your Summer Vacation

When choosing the perfect weekender bag, it's essential to pick one that combines style, functionality, and durability.

Faith Katunga • Apr 26, 2024

As summer rolls in with its promise of sunny escapades and weekend getaways, the quest for the perfect travel bags begins. When choosing the perfect weekender bag, it’s essential to pick one that combines style, functionalit y, and durability. We have narrowed our selections down to six weekender bags that are sure to be favorites among travelers and equipped to ensure a comfortable and fashionable trip.

Our Top 6 Picks

BAGAIL Travel Duffel Bag
Suruid Travel Duffel Bag
Expandable Travel Duffle Bag
Vankor Large Duffle Bag for Travel
Verabradley Microfiber Weekender Travel Bag
ETRONIK Travel Weekender Bag

1. BAGAIL Travel Duffel Bag

First on our list is the BAGAIL Travel Duffel Bag, a weekender that impresses with its chic design and practicality. Available in several colors, this bag is not just about looks. It features a wet pocket, making it a versatile option for those who want to separate their damp swimsuits or towels from dry clothes.

2. Suruid Travel Duffel Bag

Next, we have the Suruid Travel Duffel Bag. This bag stands out with a specialized shoe compartment, catering to sports enthusiasts and weekend warriors’ needs. Adding a dry-wet separated pocket further enhances its appeal, making it an ideal companion for gym-goers or those weekend beach trips.

3. Expandable Travel Duffle Bag

The Expandable Travel Duffle Bag is a godsend for those needing a bit more space. This large weekender boasts an expandable design, allowing you to adjust its size based on your packing needs. The waterproof feature and toiletry bag make it an all-in-one solution for various travel scenarios, from hospital stays to gym visits.

4. Vankor Large Duffle Bag for Travel

Vankor’s Large Duffle Bag is another contender, especially for those who prioritize durability alongside style. Its waterproof design keeps your belongings dry, while the 21-inch size accommodates everything you need for a weekend away. Available in various colors, including a soft blue, it’s perfect for beach getaways, workouts, or as a stylish diaper bag.

5. Verabradley Microfiber Weekender Travel Bag

The Verabradley Microfiber Weekender Travel Bag is a lightweight and stylish addition to your everyday life. Its solid colors add a touch of elegance without sacrificing functionality. This roomy travel bag has five mesh compartments on the inside to keep your jewelry, cosmetics, hair products, and other essentials organized so that you won’t need an additional carry-on.

6. ETRONIK Travel Weekender Bag

This weekender bag can be used for various things, including going to the gym, organizing a weekend retreat, or traveling for work. It has a built-in strap that lets you attach it to your bag so that you can keep both hands free. It fits neatly beneath the seat or in the aircraft’s overhead compartment for convenient access.

Our editors love finding you the best products and offers! If you purchase something by clicking on one of the affiliate links on our website, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

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Most Beautiful Metro Stations in Moscow

Visiting Moscow? Get yourself a metro card and explore Moscow’s beautiful metro stations. Moscow’s world-famous metro system is efficient and a great way to get from A to B. But there is more to it; Soviet mosaic decorations, exuberant halls with chandeliers, colourful paintings and immense statues. Moscow’s metro is an attraction itself, so take half a day and dive into Moscow’s underground!

The best thing to do is to get on the brown circle (number 5) line since the most beautiful metro stations are situated on this line. The only exception is the metro stop Mayakovskaya one the green line (number 2). My suggestion is to get a map, mark these metro stops on there and hop on the metro. It helps to get an English > Russian map to better understand the names of the stops. At some of the metro stops, the microphone voice speaks Russian and English so it’s not difficult at all.

Another thing we found out, is that it’s worth taking the escalator and explore the other corridors to discover how beautiful the full station is.

Quick hotel suggestion for Moscow is the amazing Brick Design Hotel .

These are my favourite metro stations in Moscow, in order of my personal preference:

1. Mayakovskaya Station

The metro station of Mayakovskaya looks like a ballroom! Wide arches, huge domes with lamps and mosaic works make your exit of the metro overwhelming. Look up and you will see the many colourful mosaics with typical Soviet pictures. Mayakovskaya is my personal favourite and is the only stop not on the brown line but on the green line.

2. Komsomolskaya Station

Komsomolskaya metro station is famous for its yellow ceiling. An average museum is nothing compared to this stop. Splendour all over the place, black and gold, mosaic – again – and enormous chandeliers that made my lamp at home look like a toy.

3. Novoslobodskaya Station

The pillars in the main hall of Novoslobodskaya metro station have the most colourful stained glass decorations. The golden arches and the golden mosaic with a naked lady holding a baby in front of the Soviet hammer and sickle, make the drama complete.

4. Prospect Mira Station

The beautiful chandeliers and the lines in the ceiling, make Prospekt Mira an architectural masterpiece.

5. Belorusskaya Station

Prestigious arches, octagonal shapes of Socialistic Soviet Republic mosaics. The eyecatcher of Belorusskaya metro station, however, is the enormous statue of three men with long coats, holding guns and a flag.

6. Kiyevskaya Station

The metro station of Kiyevskaya is a bit more romantic than Belorusskaya and Prospect Mira. Beautiful paintings with classical decorations.

7. Taganskaya Station

At the main hall Taganskaya metro station you will find triangle light blue and white decorations that are an ode to various Russians that – I assume – are important for Russian history and victory. There is no need to explore others halls of Taganskaya, this is it.

8. Paveletskaya Station

Another and most definitely the less beautiful outrageous huge golden mosaic covers one of the walls of Paveletskaya. I would recommend taking the escalator to the exit upstairs to admire the turquoise dome and a painting of the St Basil’s Cathedral in a wooden frame.

Travelling with Moscow’s metro is inexpensive. You can have a lot of joy for just a few Rubbles.

1 single journey: RMB 50 – € 0,70
1 day ticket: RMB 210 – € 2,95

Like to know about Moscow, travelling in Russia or the Transsiberian Train journey ? Read my other articles about Russia .

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Moscow Travel Guide: Best Things to Do + More [2023]

· everything to know about visiting moscow, including the best things to do and how to get around. ·.

the red st basils church in moscow on a white winters day

Moscow is Russia’s vibrant capital city, and it also happens to be the largest city in all of Europe. The city’s long and infamous history makes it one of the most unique places we have ever visited.

The architecture ranges from centuries-old palaces to uniform, gray concrete buildings. The people range from cold and private to warm and welcoming. Moscow is a city is strong juxtapositions, and we learned a lot during our time there.

This post will break down all you need to know about visiting Moscow, including the best things to do, how to get there, how to get around, and more.

man and woman standing in front of main church in moscow

The Best Things to Do in Moscow

1. explore the red square.

The Red Square is the heart of Moscow. Most of the city’s top attractions can be found here, including just about everything on this list. The Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral, and Lenin’s Mausoleum are all located here, and the State Historical Museum and GUM are not far from here, either.

The Red Square is a common home for parades, protests, and seasonal celebrations. There are massive Christmas celebrations here, with food vendors and carnival rides set up in numbers.

red orthodox church in moscow russia red square on a winter day

2. Check Out the Ziferblat

The Ziferblat is a café in Moscow that is unlike any café we have ever been to. While most cafes charge you for your drinks and food, the Ziferblat charges you for your time.

Upon arrival, you are given a clock. When you leave, the barista calculates how much time you spent in the café and charges you accordingly. This concept was created to help visitors to be more intentional with their time, and the cafe itself is incredibly charming.

For a detailed look at everything you need to know before you visit, make sure you read my post about visiting the Ziferblat Cafe in Moscow .

3. Marvel at St. Basil’s Cathedral

St. Basil’s Cathedral is one of the most iconic churches in the world, and it was the single thing we were most excited to see while in Moscow. Built almost 500 years ago, St. Basil’s Cathedral is recognized by its colorful domes and whimsical style. The church is of the Russian Orthodox faith, and the inside is just as wondrous as the outside.

St. Basil’s Cathedral is located on the edge of the Red Square, making it incredibly convenient to visit. Entrance for non-worshippers costs 800 rubles, and tickets can be bought at the church

woman in winter jacket standing in front of St Basils Russian Orthodox in moscow on a winter day

4. Explore the Kremlin

The Kremlin is the largest active fortress in Europe, and it is the site of most of Russia’s government affairs. In addition to government buildings, the Kremlin Complex is filled with courtyards, towers, and museums that are open to the public. If you have the time, you could spend a couple of days fully exploring all that there is to see in the Kremlin.

selfie of man and woman pointing to the Kremlin in Moscow

5. Walk Through Lenin’s Mausoleum

Vladimir Lenin is one of the most important figures in Russian history, and his body is located perfectly embalmed in a mausoleum in the Red Square. The Mausoleum is open to the public to visit, and as long as you are willing to go through a few security checks, it is easily one of the best things to do in Moscow. Its convenient location in the Red Square makes it a can’t miss attraction.

There is absolutely no photography allowed inside the Mausoleum. Do not test this rule.

red exterior of lenins mausoleum in moscow russia

6. Wander Along Arbat Street

The Arbat is a very popular street in Moscow that is lined with stores, cafes, and other touristy attractions. It is one of the oldest streets in the city, dating back to the 1400s. This street is both quaint and trendy, and there are many walking tours that introduce tourists to the neighborhood’s wonders and highlights.

man in sinter jacket standing in arbat street moscow at night with glistening white lights strung from the buildings

7. Catch a Show at the Bolshoi Theatre

As a lover of the arts, it is hard to think of Moscow and not think of ballet. Russia has always been a top dog in the world of fine arts, and Bolshoi Theater is one of the best places to catch a performance. We were lucky enough to attend an Opera here, and it is a venue that you don’t want to miss out on if you enjoy opera, ballet, or orchestral performances.

8. Visit the State Historical Museum

The State Historical Museum is one of the most respected museums in Moscow. Despite its name, it is not really focused on the history of Russia as a nation. Rather, it contains a collection of artifacts from all throughout Russia’s history.

The museum’s collection is very broad in nature. It houses some items from indigenous tribes that used to occupy the region, pieces collected by the Romanov family, and more.

9. Wander Around GUM

GUM is an absolutely massive mall within walking distance of the Red Square. It isn’t just the size that draws visitors here; it’s the sense of luxury. The mall is so beautiful inside, much like the metro stations.

While visiting a mall might not sound like it belongs on a bucket list, this mall does. You will not want to miss out on visiting GUM while in Moscow.

people walking inside GUM mall in russia with christmas lights

10. Admire the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

While St. Basil’s Cathedral is the most iconic church in Moscow, it isn’t the only one. The Cathedral of Christ the Saviour is absolutely stunning, with massive golden domes. It is the tallest Orthodox church in the world, and it is the seat of the Orthodox Patriarch of Moscow.

It is located just about a mile from the Red Square, just south of the Kremlin Complex. You can walk to it from the Red Square in about 20 minutes.

How to Get to Moscow

Flying to moscow.

Moscow has three major international airports: Sheremetyevo (SVO) , Domodedovo (DMO) , and Vnukovo (VKO) . All three of them are directly connected to downtown Moscow by the Aeroexpress trains, which leave every 30 minutes throughout the day. By Aeroexpress train, you can expect to get to the city center in 25-45 minutes depending on the airport that you fly into.

Sheremetyevo is the biggest and busiest of the three airports, and it is the one you are most likely to fly into – especially if you are coming from outside of Europe or the Caucus region. We flew into Sheremetyevo on a direct flight from New York City.

I usually provide backup airport options, because flying right into the city isn’t always the cheapest way to get where you’re going. Unfortunately, when it comes to Moscow, don’t really have a choice other than to fly right into Moscow. It is a very remote city, and it is usually the cheapest place to fly into in Russia as a whole.

Since Sheremetyevo is so busy, you will probably find a great flight option anyway. I wrote in my post about finding cheap flights that using hub airports will lead to more affordable airfare, and the same logic applies here. Even though Russia’s national airline, Aeroflot, is no longer a member of the SkyTeam Alliance, Moscow is still a major hub connecting passengers from all over the world.

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Train or Bus to Moscow

Trains and buses are one of the most popular ways to get around Europe. However, they’re of very little use when you’re trying to get to Moscow.

Moscow is hundreds of miles from the nearest major cities. The only major European city that can even be reached within 8 hours on the ground is St. Petersburg, and even the Baltic capitals of Riga, Vilnius, and Tallinn are over 12 hours away.

If you want to get to Moscow, the best option is almost always to fly. While the train routes to Moscow are scenic, they simply take forever.

How to Get Around Moscow

METRO | TROLLEYS | TRAMS | BUSES

Moscow has one of the most memorable metro systems in the world. Its metro lines are very deep underground, and the stations are absolutely stunning. Each station has its own unique style, but all of them contain escalators that seem to go on forever.

turned-on chandelier on ceiling of moscow metro

The system was built in an effort to showcase the power of the Soviet Union and its bright future. The plans were a form of propaganda, but they resulted in what is still one of the most visually appealing subway systems on earth.

Moscow’s metro system isn’t just pretty. It is also very useful and accessible. The system has 17 lines that connect the city and its surrounding area.

But wait; there’s more!

The Moscow metro system is also incredibly affordable, with each ride costing less than a dollar. The metro is by far the best way to get around Moscow, as it is almost impossible to beat the connection times and the low cost to ride.

Tickets can be bought at electronic, English-speaking kiosks in stations, or directly from ticket counters at certain larger stations. There are also day passes available, which are a very solid option if you plan on riding the metro several times per day.

The metro is by far the best way to get around Moscow.

In addition to the metro system, Moscow also has a network of buses, trams, and trolleys. This system is nowhere near as convenient or well-connected as the metro, though, and is likely of little use to you during your trip. There is no Uber in Moscow, but a similar app named Yandex is available if you need a ride in a pinch.

How Many Days Do You Need in Moscow?

Moscow is the biggest city in all of Europe, and it is absolutely loaded with things to do. You could spend weeks in Moscow and still find new things to do. Of course, most travelers don’t have that kind of time to spend in one place!

I recommend spending no less than three full days in Moscow, and ideally closer to five or seven.

Moscow is very spread out, and it can take some time to get from one major point to another. There are also so many places that are nice to just sit back and relax, which is hard to do when you’re in a hurry trying to cram activities into just a few days.

If you only have a week to visit Russia, I’d advise spending all of the time in one city. If you decide to split your time between Moscow and St. Petersburg, I recommend not trying to squeeze in any day trips beyond those two cities.

When Is the Best Time of the Year to Visit Moscow?

There are two different ways to approach this question. Personally, I think the best time to visit Moscow is around Christmas and New Year’s Day. While the weather will be absolutely freezing, Moscow is a surreal winter wonderland in December and January.

We were in Moscow right before Christmas. While it was very cold, you can always bundle up. Exploring the Christmas markets and pop-up ice skating rinks throughout Moscow is one of my favorite memories from anywhere I’ve traveled, and I dream of going back to do it again.

If you aren’t fond of the cold, Moscow is beautiful in the summer. It tends to get pretty cold in the shoulder seasons, so if you want warm weather, you should plan to visit in the summer. Moscow actually gets pretty warm in July and August, and there are a bunch of fantastic places to soak up the sun within the city.

The best time to visit Moscow is either around Christmas or from late May to August.

group of people walking in moscow red square at night with christmas lights everywhere

Is Moscow Safe to Visit?

While Moscow is a truly wonderful city, there’s no denying that visiting Russia comes with risks. As the country is run by an infamous communist dictator, concerns about visiting are valid. While we didn’t experience any sort of threat or negative treatment during our time in Moscow, we visited in a peaceful time.

In our experience, Russia doesn’t seem to detain normal Americans or Westerners to use as pawns. As a regular person, as long as you don’t commit any crimes, there is a slim chance you will run into any issues. However, Russia will not hesitate to enforce its laws against foreigners, and illegal behaviors will likely land you in a very compromising position.

Russia will not hesitate to enforce its laws against foreigners, and illegal behaviors will likely land you in a very compromising position.

To make matters worse, Russia has a bad reputation for gang violence. While the Russian mafia has very little interest in normal Western tourists, they won’t hesitate to pick a fight with anyone who ventures into their sphere of influence. If you seek out illegal substances or activities, you could be a target of the mafia.

If you seek out illegal substances or activities, you could be a target of the mafia.

Finally, since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, things are all very different. Russia is currently at war, and there are battles raging within 8 hours of Moscow. While it is still relatively safe to visit, that could change at any time as the war with Ukraine continues.

Is Moscow Worth Visiting?

Without a doubt, Moscow is worth visiting. It is one of the most unique major cities we have ever visited, and we hope to make it back one day. The Russian Orthodox churches are stunning, the city’s history is unlike any other, and the food is to die for.

While many visitors prefer St. Petersburg to Moscow, I think Moscow deserves a lot of hype of its own. Moscow is the beating heart of Russian culture and history, and it’s a place I highly recommend checking out if you have the chance.

woman in head scarf hugging bronze statue of angry bear

That’s all we have for you about Moscow! I hope this post was helpful as you plan your trip to Russia’s capital.

Have you been to Moscow? Or is this your first time visiting? Comment below if you have anything to add to our travel guide!

Hi, I'm Greg. I'm an avid traveler who has traveled to over 50 countries all around the world with my wife and kids. I've lived in Italy, Mexico, China, and the United States, and I dream of moving abroad again in the future. With this blog, I provide my audience with detailed destination guides to my favorite places and pro-tips to make travel as stress-free as possible.

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What’s the Best Dive Bag to Pack Scuba Gear? Check Out These Picks!
What’s the Best Dive Bag to Pack Scuba Gear? Check Out These Picks!
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What’s the Best Dive Bag to Pack Scuba Gear? Check Out These Picks!
Best Scuba Diving Bags

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Top 16 Best Scuba & Dive Bags in 2024 [Tested & Reviewed]
The Top 7 Scuba & Dive Bags in 2024. 1. Great for Air Travel: Stahlsac Caicos Cargo Pack. Jump to review. 2. Best Overall: Cressi Moby 5 Trolley. Jump to review. 3. Most Durable: Aqua Lung Explorer.
The Best Dive Bags
MSRP $306 | CONTACT scubapro.com. SPECS 11 lbs. 5 oz. | 32x17x15 inches. Jon Whittle. This bag easily holds everything a diver could want for a weeklong dive trip. A narrow profile and conveniently placed ergonomic grips provide for easy lifting and rolling, despite the bag's jumbo size.
Best Dive Gear Bags of 2023 Reviewed
Specs 7lb. 12oz. | 29.5x17x11 in. SEAC. This bag shares a similar design to the Whale, including compression straps in the bottom front pocket and a garment hook at the top of the interior compartment. Neither bag feels especially dive-oriented but each is big enough to stow bulky items such as fins and a BC.
7 Best Dive Bags Reviewed (2023 Edition)
The Total Eclipse wheel bag can store up to 94 liters and weighs 5.06 pounds (2.3 kilos). That is a lot of space for your gear with minimal weight. This bag has side fin pockets to keep your fins separate from the rest of your gear as well as customizable compartments inside to configure the bag as your need.
Best Dive Bag for Scuba Travel
16 x 12 x 4 inches. MATERIAL. 600D 78T nylon & polyurethane, 420D nylon mesh with non-corrosive plastic hardware. 5. Best Hidden Perk: Mares Cruise Backpack Pro Roller Bag. The Mares Cruise Backpack Pro roller bag has undergone a makeover and we love the hidden perk of this new scuba travel roller bags design.
Best Scuba Diving Bags
The best scuba diving bags as featured in the 2020 Scuba Diving Gear Buyers Guide. ... Durable, large-capacity dive bag makes it easy to travel with your whole kit. Credit: Jon Whittle. This traditional duffel-style bag is built from tough 100 D nylon with heavy-duty webbing reinforcements. The double zip opens wide to access the large interior ...
The best scuba diving equipment bags
Stahlsac 40" Mesh Duffel £45.95. Stahlsac's 40" (102cm) heavy-duty mesh bag will accommodate even the longest of freediving fins, along with a full set of scuba gear. 22", 26" and 36" (56cm, 66cm and 91cm) models are also available; all come with a zippered accessory pocket for storing smaller items.
Top 9 Best Dive Bags For Travel in 2020 • The Adventure Junkies
BEST FOR: OVERALL VALUE. The Scubapro Mesh N' Roll bag is one of the most versatile models on the market, and an excellent value, dollar for dollar. This allover mesh bag is easy to transport, with multiple carrying options including wrap-around straps, a retractable pull handle, and heavy-duty wheels.
Best Scuba Diving Bags Reviewed 2024
Item dimensions: 24 x 13 x 9 inches. Weight: 3.5 pounds. Price: $99. Our Overall Review: The Aqua Lung Explorer II Duffel Pack is ideal for those who love keeping it simple with carry-on-sized bags. It has adjustable backpack straps, a mesh drying pocket, a sunglass pocket, and an organization pocket.
Best Scuba Diving Bags In 2023 (Review)
Best Scuba Diving Bags #1 - Scubapro Caravan Diving Bag. ... With a two-stage telescopic handle and two exterior compression straps, the bag is perfect for air travel, making it a great companion for those looking to save on weight and space. The bag itself has a 50 litre capacity, making it large enough to carry the majority of a diver's ...
6 Best Dive Bags for Safe and Easy Transport of Scuba Gear
Widely regarded as one of the best scuba diving travel bags we have the XS Scuba Voyager 60 Roller Bag. Featuring heavy duty roller wheels that work on all terrain types, this bag offers everything you could ever want from a dive bag. With 5 handles, wheels, and external cinch straps, this bag also doubles as a backpack to make transporting ...
The Best Carry on Dive Bags
AKONA Globetrotter Carry-On Dive Backpack. For those looking for a carry on diving bag backpack, the AKONA Globetrotter is your best bet. It's 21" high and 12" wide that can fit a great deal of dive gear. You can pack the essentials here like your mask, BCD, snorkel. And so on.
What's the Best Dive Bag to Pack Scuba Gear? Check Out These Picks!
The Skog Å Kust DuffelSåk duffle is one of the toughest, heavy-duty travel bags available with 500D PVC. With its carry-on size, stowaway backpack straps, and zip splash-proof pockets, this is the most versatile dive pack on the market today. It's designed especially for scuba, with fin straps that hold any size fin.
10 Best Dive Bags In 2023
PROMATE Backpack Style Bag. 9. ScubaMax Hard Nylon Mesh Duffel Bag. 10. Meister Mesh Duffel Backpack Bag. Whether you are taking your scuba diving gear from your car to the dive boat or traveling around the world, you need a bag to carry your gear.
Underwater Essentials: Best Dive Bags for Your Gear
Stahlsac. Stahlsac is one of the best dive bags to look into for those wanting to have the luxury of a dive big organization, but a low key aspect for what you are traveling with. Stahlsac is a smaller brand, meaning that most will not recognize the label on the bag as a dive company. However, the bags that Stahlsac manufacturers are the ...
The Best Dive Gear for Travel • Scuba Diver Life
A lightweight, durable duffle is a better choice in many cases. The lightest I've found is the Fourth Element Manta bag, weighing in at just a little over 2 pounds. With a bit of investment in the best dive gear for travel — including the bag — you can save yourself a lot of weight, bulk and hassle and, considering the cost of excess ...
Dive bags for scuba diving
Customizable: The aqualung logo is printed on one end and one side. The remaining end and side are blank for you to customize. Size: 33 x 14" diameter (84 x 36cm) Weight: 1.25lbs (0.6 kg) See full details. EXPLORER II - Dive Bag Regulator. $39,00. EXPLORER II DUFFEL - Travel Ready Gear Bag. $89,00.
Dive Gear Bags & Luggage
The best dive bag keeps your scuba gear and snorkel gear protected, organized and easy to reach. Scuba luggage comes in a variety of shapes, sizes and styles to suit any type of travel and storage needs. At Divers Direct we stock the scuba gear bags we use ourselves by the brands we trust: Osprey, YETI, Armor, and, of course, exclusive EVO gear bags. Scroll to the bottom of the page for ...
Best Dive Bags For Travel and Adventure
Best Dive Bags for Travel Stahlsac Travel Line. Legendary and renowned in the diving world for their billowing capacity, tough exterior and long-lasting performance, the Stahlsac Travel Line includes the Caicos Cargo, Curacao Clipper and the stout-but-mighty Smuggler. Equipped with tons of stow space for all of your dive gear—including fins ...
18 Best Travel Backpacks, According to Frequent Flyers
The best travel backpacks, at a glance. Best Overall: Cotopaxi Allpa 42L Travel Pack, $210; Best on Amazon: Shrradoo Extra Large 52L Travel Laptop Backpack, $33; Best Daypack: Lululemon Everywhere ...
The 12 Best Travel Garment Bags of 2024
MZ Wallace's signature quilting isn't limited to the brand's totes, appearing here in garment bag form. The thin design is extremely lightweight, ideal for quick trips when you need to bring ...
10 Best Duffel Bags: Find the Right Bag for You
Get it here: Longchamp Le Pliage Expandable Travel Bag. Best lightweight duffel bag: Cotopaxi Chumpi 35L. Best lightweight. Cotopaxi Chumpi 35L. Cotopaxi. $120.00. amazon. $110.00. This bag is made from repurposed nylon and so lightweight you might forget it's there. It has a huge zipper and one main pocket so you can see everything inside ...
Where to Stay in Moscow: The BEST Areas in 2024
2. Presnensky - Where to Stay in Moscow on a Budget. Budget travel can be difficult, but definitely isn't impossible in Moscow. Located on the north side of Boulevard Ring, Presnensky (or Presnya) is home to numerous attractions, restaurants and top literary sites.
EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024 Guide)
EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024) Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit! Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city ...
The Best Weekender Bags for Your Summer Vacation
The Expandable Travel Duffle Bag is a godsend for those needing a bit more space. This large weekender boasts an expandable design, allowing you to adjust its size based on your packing needs. The waterproof feature and toiletry bag make it an all-in-one solution for various travel scenarios, from hospital stays to gym visits.
Most Beautiful Metro Stations in Moscow
Moscow's metro is an attraction itself, so take half a day and dive into Moscow's underground! The best thing to do is to get on the brown circle (number 5) line since the most beautiful metro stations are situated on this line. The only exception is the metro stop Mayakovskaya one the green line (number 2).
Moscow Travel Guide: Best Things to Do + More [2023]
3. Marvel at St. Basil's Cathedral. St. Basil's Cathedral is one of the most iconic churches in the world, and it was the single thing we were most excited to see while in Moscow. Built almost 500 years ago, St. Basil's Cathedral is recognized by its colorful domes and whimsical style.

7 Best Dive Bags Reviewed (2023 Edition)

Table of Contents

Why Should I Use/Own a Dive Bag?

Dive Bag Buying Guide

Handles and Straps

Compression Straps

Drain Holes

Pockets and Compartments

Frequently Asked Questions

Which dive bag is the best?

Do I Really Need a Dive Bag?

Tips for Packing a Dive Bag

Deepblu Cosmiq+ Review (A Divemasters Thoughts)

3 Best Tank Markers for Night Scuba Dives in 2023

5 Best Scuba Tanks For Each Type of Diver

5 Best Submersible Pressure Gauges (SPGs)

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Best Dive Bag for Scuba Travel

10 Best Scuba Dive Bags For Your Next Trip

1. Best Mesh Scub Bag: Mares New Deluxe Cruise Mesh Backpack

2. Most Portable Design: ScubaPro XP Pack Duo Rolling Scuba Luggage

3. Best Organized Dive Bags With Wheels: Cressi Strong Moby 5 Large Capacity

4. Most Versatile Scuba Bag: Hollis Duffle Bag for Scuba and Snorkeling

5. Best Hidden Perk: Mares Cruise Backpack Pro Roller Bag

6. Best Foldable Scuba Travel Duffel Bag: Aqua Lung Explorer Mesh Duffle

7. Best Dive Bags with Wheels for Carry-On: Cressi Vuelo Carry-On Roller

8. Biggest Volume: Cressi Gorilla Pro XL Waterproof Bag

9. Best Backpack for Light Equipment: Tusa MBP-1 Backpack Mesh

10. Best Heavy-Duty Scuba Bags: TUSA Dive Gear Roller Duffel

Diving Packing Guide

What to Pack in Your Dive Luggage?

What Size Scuba Bag Do You Need?

Water and Your Scuba Diving Bag

Traveling with Diving Gear

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The best scuba diving equipment bags

Owning a full set of dive gear is an expensive investment, so spending a little bit extra on decent carrying kit makes sense. Mark ‘Crowley’ Russell takes a look at some of the best scuba diving equipment bags on the market today

KIT BAGS – LONG HAUL

Akona Roller Duffel £129

Cressi Moby £234

Mares Cruise Buddy £177

Northern Diver Voyager All Terrain £70

Scubapro Porter Bag £172

Seac Equipage 1000 £169

Stahlsac 34” Steel Wheeled Bag £245.95

Tusa BA-0202 Travel Roller Bag (Large) £189

KIT BAGS – GENERAL PURPOSE

Akona Collapsing Mesh Duffel £59

Cressi Gorgona £52

Hollis Duffel £89.95

Mares Cruise Backpack Mesh Elite £49

Northern Diver 80 Litre Mesh Holdall £22

Oceanic Mesh Duffel £34.95

Seac Equipage 250 £45

Stahlsac 40” Mesh Duffel £45.95

Tusa BA-0103 Mesh Backpack £72

KIT BAGS – HAND-HELD BAGS

Akona Pro Reg Bag £46.99

Mares Cruise Dry T-Light £12 (5l), £15 (10l), £20 (25l)

Northern Diver Dry Seal Roll Top Bag £28 (10l), £35 (20l), £42 (50l), £58 (120l)

Oceanic Regulator Bag £29.95

Stahlsac Storm Dry Sack £29.95 (12l) £34.95 (30l) £47.95 (60l)

Tusa Drybag 1 £39

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Best Scuba Diving Bags in 2023 (Review)