travel duffel bags canada

Collection: Duffles

Duffles are the ultimate travel bags. Big enough to carry a lot of items, yet easy to store and take up very little space. Shop our collection of travel duffles, duffles on wheels, large-capacity duffles and sport duffles and totes from brands like Hedgren, Samsonite, Travelon, Baggallini, Jansport and more.

293 products

Duffle Bag Plain & Simple

Samsonite Tote-A-Ton 33 inch Duffle

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Soft Tote

Samsonite Andante 2 - 32" Wheeled Duffel

Samsonite Andante 2 - 28" Wheeled Duffel

Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler Duffel 60L - Jet Black

Samsonite Campus Gear 20" Cooper Duffel

Samsonite Andante 2 - 22" Wheeled Duffel

High Sierra Pack-N-Go 24 Inch Duffle With Toiletry Pouch

Mancini BUFFALO Carry On Bag

The North Face Base Camp Duffel - L

Atlantic 32 Inch Expandable Rolling Duffle

Incredible deals on now.

Travelpro Crew VersaPack Deluxe Tote Bag

High Sierra Ultimate Access 2.0 Carry-On Wheeled Backpack with Removable Daypack

High Sierra Fairlead Collection 22" Drop Bottom Duffle

High Sierra Fairlead Collection 34" Drop Bottom Duffle

Cotopaxi Allpa 28L Travel Pack - Del Día

High Sierra Pack-N-Go 20 Inch Duffle With Toiletry Pouch

The North Face Base Camp Duffel - S

Samsonite Carry-On Tote-A-Ton Duffle Bag

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack - Del Día

The North Face Base Camp Duffel - XXL

High Sierra Fairlead Collection 28" Drop Bottom Duffle

Osprey Daylite Duffel 45

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SHOP TRAVEL DUFFEL BAGS

Explore Our Other Luggage Guide: Can a Duffel Bag be Considered a Carry on Bag? How to Wash a Duffel Bag

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Travel duffel bags have come a long way. Our durable duffels are packed with practical features, like fold-out suiters that protect against wrinkles, wet pockets perfect for swimsuits and workout gear and drop bottom, zip-off compartments that let you divide and conquer organization with ease. Choose from rolling duffels, carry on duffel bags that fit under the seat on an airplane, travel duffels that fit plenty for an entire weekend and even a nearly weightless foldable duffel designed to serve as a backup bag for occasional use.

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The Best Duffle Bags

By Kit Dillon

Kit Dillon is a writer focused on bags and travel gear. He has worked for Wirecutter for a decade and lost count of the number of bags he has tested.

Few bags are as simple, versatile, and satisfying to use as a duffle.

Its utilitarian design—a soft, oblong bag with one zippered opening plus two handles and/or a shoulder strap—suits anything from a daily commute to a weekend away to a fishing trip.

Though that basic form works in many situations, no single duffle bag (the word is also spelled duffel ) can fit everyone’s taste or needs.

A small, barrel-shaped duffle may be perfect for toting a couple of towels and lunch to the beach, for example, but it doesn’t offer the organization or space to pack for a three-day business trip.

The seven bags we recommend—plus three alternates—are well made, comfortable to carry, and intended to fill a range of roles, including as a versatile adventure bag , a weekend-away duffle , a daily-carry bag , a lightweight convertible backpack , an ultra-packable duffle , a rolling duffle for checking , and a waterproof gear hauler .

The research

Why you should trust me, most versatile duffle: patagonia black hole duffel 70l, also great: decathlon forclaz duffel 500 extend, best weekender: lands’ end waxed canvas travel duffle bag, best for daily carry: herschel supply co. sutton duffle mid-volume, also great: cotopaxi mariveles 32l duffel bag del día, for traveling on foot: cotopaxi chumpi 35l duffel del día, for when you need a spare bag: matador freefly packable duffle, also consider: waterfield packable duffel, best as checked luggage: dakine split roller 110l bag, best for keeping things dry: yeti panga 50l waterproof duffel, other good duffle bags, how we picked and tested, the competition, what to look forward to.

I’ve reviewed bags for Wirecutter since 2014. In that time, I’ve interviewed countless bag designers, brand executives, fabric specialists, zipper zealots, and a host of bag hobbyists and satchel obsessives. These interviews and my own years of research have earned me at least something of a journeyman’s understanding of how a good bag should feel and what makes it work in a given situation.

Patagonia Black Hole Duffel 70L

A rugged, versatile bag to hold your gear.

This bag is the most versatile gear duffle we’ve found. It’s tough, water resistant, and great for toting clothes and equipment in almost any travel or outdoor scenario.

Buying Options

Get this if: You need a sporty, water-resistant bag that can handle anything from toting sports gear to holding stuff for a two-day camping trip to going on a weeklong vacation.

Why it’s great: The Patagonia Black Hole Duffel 70L is a true jack-of-all-trades. The exterior is made of polyester ripstop that is laminated with thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) to protect against abrasion and has a water-resistant coating. Over the years, I’ve dragged, thrown, kicked, and carried these Patagonia bags across most of the country, and they’ve never failed. You can carry the Black Hole at your side using the two handles or over your shoulder using the strap, or you can wear it as a backpack with its two padded straps. The Black Hole is available in three other sizes, too: 40 liters , 55 liters , and 100 liters . (We originally tested a now-discontinued 120-liter version.) For all practical purposes, the bags are identical except for their increasing size, though the two smaller sizes come in a wider range of colors than do the two larger sizes. The Black Hole folds down into its own stuff sack, which turns into a storage pocket when you unfold the duffle. Patagonia has a highly regarded replacement and repair guarantee that we’ve tested many times without complaint.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: There’s little about the Black Hole to critique. It does what it needs to, and Patagonia’s reputation for high-quality materials and craftsmanship has set the standard for this type of bag for years. One small detail: The shoulder straps can take a moment to situate because of their unusual eyelet attachment, but once you figure them out, adjusting them is easy to do with one hand.

Dimensions: 28 by 13 by 17.5 inches (LWH) Capacity: 70 liters Other sizes: 40 liters , 55 liters , 100 liters

Decathlon Forclaz Duffel 500 Extend

If you need a versatile bag that expands.

This expandable bag is an absolute bargain, considering the quality and strength of the materials. However, Decathlon is still a lesser-known brand in the US, and we haven’t tested this bag for as long as we have our other picks.

Get this if: You need a durable and water-resistant bag for travel, sports, or longer adventure trips. With its extra 20 liters of expandable space, it’s a particularly good pick if you tend to travel with a small load and return home with a larger one—so consider this bag if you anticipate receiving gifts or doing some shopping while you’re traveling.

Why it’s great: When we first compared the quality of the Decathlon Forclaz Duffel 500 Extend against its listed price, we thought there must have been some kind of mistake. We rarely see a bag with coated thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) and polyester, both of which offer water resistance and durability, of this quality for less than a hundred dollars. In many respects, the Forclaz Duffel is similar in material quality to the Patagonia Black Hole Duffel 70L , yet it’s less than half the price. That said, we have some small concerns that we can’t address without further testing, namely the stitching at critical points (more on that below).

Beyond the price, the standout feature of the Forclaz bag is its Transformer-like ability to expand from a 40-liter backpack to a 60-liter bag with the adjustment of a few zippers and clips. The expansion process is a bit fiddly at first, but it’s well worth the effort if you find yourself frequently packing more than you expect during your trips.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: Upon close examination of the Forclaz bag, we found that our biggest concern involved the stitching at certain critical points, such as at the shoulder attachments and along key seams; we’d prefer to see more double stitching and bar tack reinforcements, as we found on the Patagonia Black Hole. This bag has notably high review scores on the Decathlon website, and its sturdy materials lead us to anticipate that it will wear well. That said, Decathlon’s limited warranty does not look as rock solid as Patagonia’s. There’s really no way for us to address this bag’s potential flaws without spending a lot more time with it, which we plan to do.

Dimensions: 21.5 by 15.5 by 12.5 inches (LWH) Capacity: 40 liters (expands to 60 liters) Other sizes: none

Lands’ End Waxed Canvas Travel Duffle Bag

A buy-it-for-life travel bag.

The more you use this rugged weekender, the better it will look. The canvas body, leather reinforcements, and brass hardware all promise durability, though we’d prefer more waxing in the canvas.

Get this if: You want a bag with a heritage look, to carry on quick trips, that can take a few knocks and age well with the wear.

Why it’s great: The Lands’ End Waxed Canvas Travel Duffle Bag is the toughest bag we could find—it’s made of sturdy canvas, with leather trim and brass hardware—that is also consistently available. The shoulder strap comes off, which is useful if you prefer to carry your bags by their handles. A small internal pocket is convenient for tucking away, say, your wallet or your house keys. The waxed duffle fits a specific aesthetic: It’s maybe not the bag you’d take on a business trip but rather to a cabin in the mountains. That outdoorsy look, however, has practical benefits, as with a little care a duffle like this should last a long time. (We should note, however, that Lands’ End no longer offers a lifetime warranty—you now have recourse only within a 90-day return period.)

Flaws but not dealbreakers: Waxed canvas is heavier than most modern fabrics (such as nylon and polyester), and we noticed the extra heft of the Lands’ End bag in comparison with the weight of other duffles we tested. Although Lands’ End describes this duffle as waxed, we’d call it lightly waxed at best. The canvas is mildly water resistant, but liquids won’t roll off it in the way you might see with more heavily waxed items. If you do want more protection, you can add more wax to the canvas yourself . When we tested the bag, it came in brown and navy. Currently, it’s available only in navy.

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

Herschel Supply Co. Sutton Duffle Mid-Volume

An affordable bag for daily use.

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

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

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

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

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

Cotopaxi Mariveles 32L Duffel Bag Del Día

A daily-use bag made of upcycled material.

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

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

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

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

Dimensions: 17.5 by 10 by 10.5 inches (LWH) Capacity : 32 liters Other sizes: none

Cotopaxi Chumpi 35L Duffel Del Día

A duffle that’s also a backpack.

This bag can be a backpack or a duffle—and it works well as either. If you plan on walking long distances and want multiple ways to carry your gear comfortably, this is a great option.

Get this if: You expect to walk a lot on your trips—touring cities, say, or doing some light adventuring—and need a comfortable way to carry your stuff, but you don’t require an extra-tough gear bag. Also, this bag is a good choice if you want to support a B Corp and its social and sustainable missions .

Why it’s great: The Cotopaxi Chumpi 35L Duffel Del Día has dedicated backpack straps built into the top that hide away behind two flaps secured by metal clasps when not in use. Many combo backpack-and-duffle designs rely on the handles serving double duty as backpack straps, which usually means they aren’t very good as either. The Chumpi’s dedicated straps allow it to perform as an actually comfortable backpack. When you’re finished wearing it, converting it back into a duffle is simple: Just tuck the backpack straps away and grab the bag by its handles. Unlike several other backpack duffles we tested, this Cotopaxi bag positions its zipper against your back while you’re using it as a backpack. It’s a simple, seemingly obvious (but rare) design choice that lends more peace of mind when you’re walking down a busy street or absentmindedly taking in the sights.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: Is a duffle with shoulder straps as good as a backpack? No. Like most backpack duffles, the Chumpi has a tendency to slouch a bit when it’s on the shoulders. That said, I carried the Chumpi fully packed for several miles while on a trip, and I found that using its backpack straps was a nice alternative to shifting a single shoulder strap from side to side. Note that when we tested the Chumpi, it was available in a range of solid colors. Since then, Cotopaxi has switched to making the duffle using a patchwork of remnant fabrics, which is what the Del Día name refers to. This means that each bag will be one of a kind—but also possibly more boldly colored than some people may like.

Dimensions: 20 by 10.5 by 10.5 inches (LWH) Capacity: 35 liters Other sizes: none

Matador Freefly Packable Duffle

Lightweight and packable.

This ultralight duffle folds away into its own front pocket or compresses further into a cinch sack. The weatherproof material is paired with sealed zippers, which should keep everything inside dry in moderate rain.

Get this if: You want a lightweight alternative bag for emergencies, a day bag when you travel, or a last-second hauler for going around town.

Why it’s great: Unlike many packable or ultralight bags, which tend to behave like unruly sacks unless they’re filled to the hilt, the 30-liter Matador Freefly Packable Duffle manages to keep its shape whether it’s empty, partially packed, or stuffed like a sausage. It doesn’t pack down quite as small as some bags we’ve tested in the past, but it comes close enough—shrinking to about the size of a mango—and it’s much more pleasant to use as an actual bag once it’s on your shoulder. Where this Matador duffle truly excels, though, is in the high quality of its materials. With reinforced, treated nylon and sealed zippers, the Freefly is especially robust for a lightweight packable. Matador added a few compression straps on the side, too, though personally I find them more trouble than they’re worth on most bags.

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

All Matador products are backed by a decently trustworthy three-year warranty.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: One glaring flaw is the shoulder strap. Although the strap is adjustable, it’s nothing more than an inch-wide strip of nylon. Even for a pared-down packable bag, that’s pretty meager considering the bag’s 30-liter carrying capacity. For shorter-term carries, this bag does just fine, but if you need a duffle to constantly haul around town, one of our other picks is likely to keep you (and your shoulders) happier. However, if you need a spare bag to tuck into your suitcase, an extra gym bag while traveling, or a way to carry purchases you pick up on a trip, this bag is a great choice. This duffle comes in only one color, black.

Dimensions: 22 by 11 by 8 inches (LWH) Capacity: 30 liters Other sizes: none

WaterField Packable Duffel

A packable bag for travel.

Like the Matador, this packable duffle folds into its own pocket and is weatherproof. A few thoughtful details—including a luggage loop—make the WaterField more suitable for travel than other models we tested.

Get this if: You need a packable duffle that easily doubles as a carry-on item—it has a luggage handle slot—and provides extra weather protection.

Why it’s great: WaterField continues to make some of the best overall bags we’ve come across in the past few years, and the Packable Duffel is no exception. It’s more expensive than the Matador Freefly , but its upgraded materials and more-robust stitching and build may make the higher cost worth it for certain people. Travelers especially will welcome the luggage loop, which fits over suitcase handles. The exterior of the bag is made from Taslan—a lightweight but substantial woven fabric with an added water-resistant coating, which is complemented by self-sealing waterproof zippers similar to those on the Matador. The interior is lined with a ripstop nylon. Both fabrics are very high-quality materials, helping the bag stand out from the competition. How, exactly? You can scrunch this bag down to about the size of a couple of pairs of socks (it fits into a 9.5-by-8.5-inch pocket), store it for weeks, then open it up and shake it out, and the bag will look fresh and presentable without creases or stress lines. It doesn’t pack down quite as small as the Matador, but many people might prefer its more-structured design. The bag has no shoulder strap, but the handles are long enough to let you shoulder the bag and carry it under your arm.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: We wish the nylon strap made for looping over your suitcase handle were more robust. Many companies making underseat bags have opted for an entire “slip-through” panel, which holds the bag securely against your luggage without letting it slouch over.

Dimensions : 8 by 18 by 10 inches (LWH) Capacity : 24 liters (expands to 30 liters) Other sizes : none

Dakine Split Roller 110L Bag

A rolling duffle to check.

This bag offers the space and easy-to-maneuver wheels of a good suitcase in the flexible shape of a duffle bag. Multiple interior and exterior compartments let you easily organize and separate all of your gear, too.

price may vary by color or style

Get this if: You want a rolling duffle that’s well organized. Also, this is a good choice if you need a bag that’s great for checked-luggage excursions and other types of long-distance travel but want something a little more pliable and easy to maneuver than a traditional wheeled suitcase .

Why it’s great: The Dakine Split Roller 110L Bag combines the best parts of checked luggage—internal organization, wheels, and a cavernous interior—with the soft, flexible frame of a duffle bag. The Split Roller opens like a clamshell; one side of the “shell” is divided into top and bottom compartments, and the other consists of one large main compartment. Mesh dividers separate all three compartments to keep everything in place. When you expand this duffle, it holds about 110 liters—nearly 20 liters more than our top pick for checked luggage . But the Split Roller can also adjust to carrying lighter loads, as it works similarly to an expansion case: The bag has a collapsible brace in the front section that can either fold out for extra space or fold back to let the top of the bag lie flat. Two external pockets let you easily access your everyday things and travel items without opening the bag itself. (The duffle also comes in an 85-liter version .)

Similar to many of the rolling duffle models we tested, the Split Roller has dependable #10 YKK zippers and 8 cm urethane wheels. Both features are good enough for a bag of this design and price. Dakine also uses a variety of polyester and Cordura nylon materials for various versions of the Split Roller, ranging from 600-denier polyester (good for most people) to 1,000-denier Cordura blend with DWR coating (useful if you abuse your gear or travel through tough or wet conditions). We tested the 600-denier polyester fabric in the black color, and it seemed plenty durable for a travel duffle. It’s also the least expensive fabric option that Dakine offers; if you instead opt for one of the tougher, water-resistant options, you pay a little more. Dakine covers its products with a limited lifetime warranty .

Flaws but not dealbreakers: If the Split Roller is not packed properly—with the heaviest items toward the wheels—the bag can lean and even tilt over when left upright. More often than not, the Split Roller stays upright, but it isn’t as stable as the Patagonia Black Hole Wheeled Duffel Bag 100L . However, the bag’s well-thought-out organization and durable construction more than make up for this small frustration.

Dimensions: 32 by 17 by 13 inches (LWH) Capacity: 110 liters Other sizes: 85 liters

Yeti Panga 50L Waterproof Duffel

A tough bag for wet adventures.

If you want the toughest possible duffle, this is our choice. It’s comfortable to carry, waterproof, and close to indestructible. However, it typically costs nearly twice as much as the 55-liter version of the Patagonia Black Hole.

Get this if: You want the absolute toughest, most durable waterproof duffle for your adventures—particularly if those adventures leave you wading with your gear through streams or torrential rains.

Why it’s great: A waterproof nylon shell and zipper keep your stuff dry even if you submerge the Yeti Panga 50L Waterproof Duffel completely. I didn’t quite believe it until I tested the duffle several times, carrying it fully packed into the beach breaks of Oahu’s North Shore, where its impermeable barrier held in enough air to easily float my 220-pound frame and still kept the towels, clothes, and sneakers inside bone-dry. If you’re on a trip where your bag might end up in the water, you’re sure to appreciate this feature. Like the Patagonia Black Hole Duffel , the Yeti Panga Waterproof Duffel comes with a plethora of lash points that you can use to secure your bag on your adventures. Thanks to its rigidity, the Panga is also surprisingly comfortable to use as a backpack. (Its handles serve as the backpack straps.) The Panga comes in two larger sizes, as well: 75 liters and 100 liters .

Flaws but not dealbreakers: The price of the Yeti Panga is nearly double what you pay for a similarly sized Patagonia Black Hole. All that weatherproofing isn’t light, either—the Panga is the heaviest bag we tested, weighing more than 5 pounds when empty. If you need a waterproof bag as tough as the Panga that also includes wheels for load assistance, the Ortlieb Duffle RS is a good option. However, wheels are just one more thing to break on a bag, and the necessary skid plates and axles tend to make rolling duffle bags like the Ortlieb a bit less flexible than the Panga. The Panga comes in two colors: gray and tan.

Dimensions: 23.5 by 10 by 14 inches (LWH) Capacity: 50 liters Other sizes: 75 liters , 100 liters

If you don’t mind a stylized look for your everyday-carry bag: Previously we listed the Topo Designs Classic Duffel 20″ in the Competition section, but we now believe that you should consider it if you like its look. This is a great 27.5-liter duffle with Cordura nylon and rucksack details, but it has a specific style that many people may not like. Topo has a reputation for making excellent gear, though, and if you find this bag appealing, you won’t go wrong with it.

If you transport heavy stuff that can’t get wet: Consider the 85-liter Ortlieb Duffle RS , which is a decent waterproof alternative to the Yeti Panga 50L Waterproof Duffel, especially if you prefer built-in wheels to assist with the load. The Ortlieb bag, which is made with PVC-coated polyester fabric, has a rigid aluminum floor plate; this piece protects the base of the bag without taking up a significant amount of space (an issue with other rolling duffle bags). Note that all the extra parts mean more complexity and more things to break. Our biggest complaint, though, is that when the bag is left upright, it has a tendency to tip over because of its narrow wheelbase. (The bag also comes in 110- and 140-liter sizes.)

We began our research by poring through brand websites, reading bag blogs, and surveying a multitude of review sites. We divided the field into several broad categories: duffles for everyday use plus weekend trips and longer travel, backpack duffles, packable duffles, and duffles meant to haul adventure gear. Working from an initial list of 88 possible contenders, we considered each duffle’s design, accessibility, size, features, organization, materials, price, and brand warranty. Using those criteria, we narrowed the list down to 33 bags that we called in for hands-on evaluation.

To test the duffles, I packed and unpacked each one and used them as much as possible in my day-to-day life. With every bag I tested, I asked myself, “Would I live with this bag? Could it replace something I already have?” Specifically, I looked at the following:

Ease of use and accessibility: How easy is the bag to pack, unpack, and otherwise use in everyday situations? Does it have enough pockets? Are they well organized and well placed? I also kept a close eye on zippers and how they acted, tugging them from different angles. It was especially important to me that the zippers on our picks were easy to open on the go, even when the bag was hanging from a shoulder.

Carrying comfort: A great bag is pretty useless if it isn’t comfortable to heft and cart around. After I loaded up each bag with as much gear, clothes, sneakers, books, and usual ephemera of life as I could, I carried it around. I spend a lot of my time on the move, so each of our potential picks became—at least for a short while—something of an everyday-carry companion in my life until I understood the bag’s character.

Quality of the materials: Most bags are made from one of a handful of fabrics (nylon, waxed canvas, polyester). I paid special attention to the material’s weight, heft, and weave, as well as any special tech like TPU coatings.

Weight: Duffles should be light enough to carry easily but not so light that they feel flimsy or about to tear. Most of our picks weigh less than 3.5 pounds.

Cost: We eliminated any duffles that we determined were overpriced for what they were. You do get what you pay for in this category, though, and better quality and materials are often worth spending just a little more.

Guarantee or warranty: Not all company policies are equal. We favored bags that came with a warranty of two years or more.

Versatile/adventure duffles

Sea to Summit Duffle Bag : Although this heavy, water-resistant adventure duffle is good for the price, we were more impressed by the consistent performance and simplicity of the Patagonia Black Hole (our pick among versatile duffles) and the sturdier construction of the Yeti Panga (our pick among waterproof duffles).

The North Face Base Camp Duffel L : This duffle is similar to the Sea to Summit Duffle Bag, except it lacks that bag’s rigidity and attention to detail.

Lo & Sons Catalina Deluxe : We liked the separate compartment at the bottom of the bag that allows you to pack a few pairs of shoes, say, or to separate out dirty laundry as you travel. But the materials of this duffle weren’t as good as those of other picks, and it didn’t carry as comfortably.

Everyday duffles

Mission Workshop Transit Duffle : We aren’t sure who this laptop duffle is for. The bag was so divided up and over-organized that we had trouble carrying much of anything in it. In addition, the main zipper was too short, which made it hard for us to open the center of the bag all the way.

Bellroy Lite Duffel : We very nearly made this one of our picks except for the odd design of its top zipper closure. That zipper extends out past the edges of the bag’s main compartment, which makes it easier to access the interior but also leaves two large openings on either end of the bag when it’s closed. The extra length of zipper does fold down, but the bag doesn’t have buttons or clasps to keep it shut. The gap feels like a large oversight, especially given the duffle’s price.

Backpack duffles

Osprey Transporter Duffel 40 : This duffle bag wasn’t great to pack or carry in our tests. The materials felt thin, and the straps didn’t sit well on our shoulders when the duffle was fully packed.

Piorama A10 : An adjustable duffle bag that’s both a day bag and an extra-large backpack? Seems like it should be great, but in practice the design felt fiddly, and the cinched sphincter-like ends were unsettling.

Topo Designs Mountain Duffel : The one flaw of this Topo backpack duffle is that the shoulder straps are placed on the bottom of the bag, which means that as you wear it, the zipper is worryingly exposed to the world.

Rolling duffles

Patagonia Black Hole Wheeled Duffel Bag 100L : The rolling Black Hole’s design is identical to that of the non-rolling version that we like, except for the addition of wheels, a reinforced base, and haul handles. Those additions do make it heavier and less flexible than the non-rolling bag. The best part of the design is that it stands upright unassisted, even when empty. But most travelers are better served by the organization and extra pockets in the Dakine Split Roller .

Amazon Basics Ripstop Wheeled Duffel 30″ : Inexpensive and well organized, this Amazon Basics duffle could almost qualify as a budget pick. However, you get what you pay for in this case, and we found that most of the internal materials, such as the pocket dividers, weren’t especially durable. Most people are better served spending a bit more for quality materials.

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

Osprey Transporter Wheeled Duffel 90 : This Osprey model is a large, cavernous bag on wheels similar to the Patagonia Black Hole Wheeled Duffel Bag. But the Patagonia duffle has a sturdier frame and tougher materials than the Osprey, which needs a bit more structural reinforcement to compete. Again, however, we ultimately preferred the organization and split interior of the Dakine Split Roller in this category.

We also tested duffles from American Apparel, Incase, Marmot, Osprey, Thule, and Tortuga that have since been discontinued.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

We’re testing Peak Design’s Travel Duffel in both the 35- and 65-liter sizes.

Meet your guide

Kit Dillon is a senior staff writer at Wirecutter. He was previously an app developer, oil derrick inspector, public-radio archivist, and sandwich shop owner. He has written for Popular Science, The Awl, and the New York Observer, among others. When called on, he can still make a mean sandwich.

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Home » Gear » best travel duffel bags

Best Travel Duffel Bags – Discover the Art of the Duffel Carry

Most people tend to travel with a suitcase or backpack, but we’re here to review the best duffel bags and highlight their many advantages.

Now that big outdoor brands like Marmot, The North Face, and Patagonia have put their know-how and years of experience into this marketplace, the duffel bag has been revolutionized, no longer just an oversized bag to get from point A to point B.

Even the simplest travel duffel, however, have their advantages. For one, they’re the best option if you are traveling with bulkier items such as snow boots, life jackets, or camping gear.

All of that being said, not all duffel bags are created equal. Whether you need a bag for your next adventure or simply a sleek bag to travel for work, we’ve reviewed dozens and dozens of duffels and compiled a list of the top ones on the market.

So if you think your luggage is due for an upgrade, check out our comprehensive reviews of the  best travel duffel bags around, and get yourself a duffel worthy of broke backpackers, adventurers, vacationers alike! We’ve got everything from duffel bags with compartments, those with backpack straps and weather resistant numbers too!

So, ya’ll want to find out what THE best travel duffel bag is, you’re in the right place! Let’s go!

Quick Answer: The Best Travel Duffel Bags on the Market

Top picks of the best travel duffel bags, how to choose a travel duffel bag, how we tested these duffel bags, the best travel duffel bags – comparison table, faq about the best travel duffel bags, what is the best travel duffel bag – final thoughts.

• Osprey Transporter Expedition Duffel – The Overall Best Duffel Bag
• Black Diamond StoneHauler Pro 30 L Duffel – Overall Best Duffel Bag (Runner-up)
• Nomatic Travel Bag – High-Utility Backpack Meets Duffel Bag
• Monarc Settra Duffel Backpack – Best Eco Duffel/Backpack
• REI Co-op Big Haul Recycled Rolling Duffel – Best Travel Duffel Bag with Wheels
• Patagonia Black Hole – Best Carry on Travel Duffel Bag
• Kodiak Leather 60l Weekender – Best Men’s Leather Duffel Bag
• Under Armour Women’s UA Motivator Duffle Sport Bag – Best Women’s Travel Duffel Bag
• UNIQUEBELLA Suit Travel Duffel – Best Business Travel Duffel Bag
• The North Face Base Camp Duffel – Best Duffel Bag for Expeditions
• The Classic Duffle by Mahi Best Small Travel Duffel Bag
• Gregory Alpaca – Best Packable Duffel

Osprey Transporter Expedition Duffel

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

Black Diamond StoneHauler Pro 30 L Duffel

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

Nomatic Travel Bag

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

Monarc Setra Duffel Backpack

• > Carry on Compliant
• > Made from recycled bottles

REI Co-op Big Haul Recycled Rolling Duffel – 30

• > Integrated wheels
• > Large for longer trips

Patagonia Black Hole Duffle

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

Kodiak 60l Weekender

• > High quality leather
• > Roomy and spacious

Under Armour Women’s UA Motivator Duffle Sport Bag

• > Lightweight
• > Water Resistant

UNIQUEBELLA Suit Travel Duffel

• > Rolls out flat to take suits
• > Wrinkle-free clothes storage

The North Face Base Camp Duffel

• > Just 4 lbs in weight
• > Come with backpack straps

MAHI Leather Duffle

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

Gregory Alpaca Duffel

• > Comes with packing cube

REI is one of America’s biggest and most-loved outdoor gear retailers.

Now, for just $30, get a lifetime membership that entitles you to 10% OFF on most items, access to their trade-in scheme and discount rentals .

Overall Best Duffel Bag – Osprey Transporter Expedition Duffel

The Osprey Transporter Expedition Duffel offers its users the best of both worlds. It has all the features that drew you to a travel duffel bag in the first place, along with a comfortable set of stowable, padded shoulder straps if you have to carry it for a longer period.

This duffel’s zippers are lockable, giving added peace of mind if and when you need to let it out of your eye line – such as on an aircraft or in a hostel room – and also has the bonus of a padded internal compartment to keep your delicate tech safe while on the move.

What’s more, the quickest of touches will convince you of the long-lasting durability of the materials used, together with a rain flap to keep precipitation from ruining your time away!

• Stowable padded backpack straps
• Zips can be locked
• Padded compartment for tech
• Not fully waterproof
• 40 liter might be too small for some
• Not guaranteed to be carry-on compliant
• Rigid construction

How The Osprey Transporter Tested

I have personally tested dozens of Osprey travel packs now and its rare I encounter one that I don’t love. We took the transporter on a road trip across the Atlantique region of France and packed it full of enough gear for 2 people. It felt very strong, rigid and weatherproof and I have no doubt that it would withstand a goos few years of abuse. The organisational layout is highly intuitive and we found it easy to pack, and retrieve our gear when we needed it.

In terms of downsides, I am just not all that sure about how much I like backpack /duffel hybrids and this one does feel slightly awkward to me when I wore it as a backpack. Sure, the backpack straps do pack away but this adds to the weight and I did feel it.

Is the Osprey Transporter Expedition Duffel for me?

If you love the idea of a travel duffel bag but worry about how you’re going to transport it further distances, then the Osprey Transporter Expedition Duffel has it all figured out thanks to the incorporated backpack straps! It’s one of the reasons it stands out amongst the other duffel bags.

The padded tech compartment is a great addition, as is the ability to lock the zips!

Our team rated this as their “best travel duffel backpack”, which means kinda what it says, a duffel that works just as well as a backpack and they love that versatility. They felt it had most of the features of some of the best Osprey backpacks whilst having the ability to be used as a duffel.

They really love that it opens up more like a clamshell backpack into a super roomy interior. As an added bonus the skate rats on the team loved that it came in well as a travel skateboard bag even if it wasn’t explicitly designed that way.

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

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

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

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

How The Black Diamond StoneHauler Tested

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

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

Is the Black Diamond StoneHauler for me?

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

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

Duffel Bag Meets High-Utility Backpack – Nomatic Travel Bag

This duffel bag is not purely a duffel bag. In fact, it’s not even primarily a duffel bag. And that’s why we like it so damn much!

The Nomatic Travel Bag is a backpack for the modern-day traveller. It’s loaded on the organization without an excess of empty space for unnecessary packing. Tech gear gets sleeves, shoes and dirty laundry get dedicated compartments, and everything else gets a space too!

But the best part is that if you flip this bad boy over and modify the straps, you have a completely functional duffel bag! Could we say it’s like a transformer. Yes, it most certainly is.

It functions as a very structured duffel bag with a lot of interior organisation, however, to be totally honest, that’s kinda rad!

• 40 L of pure organizational storage
• Qualifies for carry-on luggage
• Incredibly durable design
• Doubles as a backpack!
• Not a traditional duffel bag
• Kind of cube-like in duffel-mode
• Premium pricing
• Not the right choice for everyone

How The Nomatic Travel Bag Tested

We’re pretty intimate with the Nomatic travel bag now and it has accompanied various team members all over the world. We love its high quality materials and the fact it looks and feels new even after a year of use. We always make the most of its packing and organisational capabilities where everything has its right place. In fact, the Nomatic travel bag performed so well during a recent trip to Barcelona that a street thug could not help but steal it from us…is there any higher accolade that can be bestowed upon a bag?!

Is the Nomatic Travel Bag for me?

For people seeking a traditional duffel bag, no. However, for those that dig the option to wear it as a backpack and travel for work and with a certain selection of gear they need to keep protected (eg. a laptop and tablet), it’s perfect.

Our team are really massive fans of this bag and for a few different reasons. Firstly, the actual functionality between using it as a duffel and a backpack is second to none and it really means this bag can be used in so many different situations. On top of that its organisational features were a real selling point for our team.

If you’re on the fence, we’d recommend checking out the Nomatic Travel Bag review .

Best Eco Duffel/Backpack – Monarc Settra Duffel Backpack

The realities of travel can really take their toll on the planet. It’s no surprise that Ecological and Sustainable travel initiatives are now really gaining momentum. The Monarc 2-in-1 Duffle-Backpack is the world’s first backpack made from 100% recycled bottles and the producers have been awarded a highly coveted “plastic negative” rating.

But here this, not only is this backpack totally eco-friendly but it’s also a bloody great pack. Firstly, its 2-1 concept design means it can be worn as a backpack or carried as a duffel using the comfortable handle/ shoulder strap. If you do wear it on your bag, there are adjustable straps to help carry the weight. I really love this pack, even though I am not a HUGE duffel fan I have now had this bag for years and tested it extensively.

• Made from recycled plastic bottles
• TSA Carry-on compliant
• 2 in 1 Duffel and Backpack!
• Kinda heavy
• No compression straps

How The Monarc Settra Tested

I have had this pack for over a year now and so Ive tested it extensively. It performs really well for weekend break type trips by public transport where you can need to pack a change of shoes. It slots into over-head compartments on planes/trains/buses nicely and the organisational layout makes it really easy to find your gear when you need it. I have been rained on quite heavily with this pack and it stayed perfectly dry.

In terms of downsides, it does feel quite heavy after carrying it for a while and I am not a fan of how it feels when worn as a backpack at all.

Is the Monarc Settra Duffel for me?

Then there are the organisational possibilities. Its’ 40L of storage can go pretty far and the pack offers a shoe compartment and a 17” laptop sleeve. Coming in at $149.00, it’s well worth the bucks although if you have the budget we also recommend picking up the full set including camera cube, compression cubes and laundry bags.

Anything else? Oh yeah, it’s also water-resistant, TSA Carry-on compliant and comes with a lifetime guarantee!

Our team are a real environmentally conscious lot and any product that offers features such as being made out of recycled ocean plastic is a winner for them! On top of the sustainable side of the bag, they feel it packs some great features too and they particularly love having the security of both the dedicated laptop pocket as well as the lockable zippered sections.

Best Duffel Bag with Wheels – REI Co-op Big Haul Recycled Rolling Duffel – 30″

While we love The North Face’s Maleta, we also tested the REI Co-op Big Haul and can confirm it is equally as great. This wheeled duffel provides traction in all conditions, but the Sherpa strap lets you carry your duffel when you need to.

Its handle and back-panel structure add durability to the rolling duffel bag. You also have internal compression straps, external zippered pockets, and a small zippered pocket on top for organisation.

• Integrated wheels
• Large for longer trips
• Good Capacity
• High quality
• Wheels can’t be hidden
• No added backpack straps
• Might be too big for some

How The REI Co-op Big Haul Tested

Ok, so we found the REI Co-op Big Haul was easy to neatly pack and unpack, and it slotted easily into the overhead compartments. However, the wheels do make it heavy to carry , (and you will have to carry some of the time) and my arm was aching by the end of the day.

In terms of the materials, the main materials feel strong and the weatherproofing stood up to a bit of rain very well. However, I have felt better quality zippers and wonder if the ones on the Big Haul may start to wear and break after a bit of abuse.

Is the REI Co-op Big Haul for me?

Perfect for a month abroad, The REI Co-op Big Haul wheeled duffel bag has 87 litres of interior space and ample organisation to take you (and your gear) around the world. However, there are no removable backpack straps so you’re stuck to wheeling it around!

For those of our team who need to travel with heavy gear, like the climbers and filmmakers in the gang, the REI Co-op Big Haul really works perfectly for their needs. They feel it offers them much more versatility and durability over a traditional wheeled suitcase with both the carry options and the additional compartments and pockets.

Best Carry on Travel Duffel Bag – Patagonia Black Hole 40

This mid-length machine can store everything you need for weekend trips or even entire vacations for light packers. We tested it out on a weekend trip across Europe that took in planes, buses and trains so the old Black Hole got a good and proper trial.

Store your goods in a bag that just barely sneaks under strict carry-on regulations while staying light as a feather. Once you’ve unpacked, you can neatly store this Patagonia bag inside of itself, using its own pockets to compact. 

If you are specifically looking for more carry-on options, check out our best carry on duffel bags post if this is what you’re specifically looking for.

Travelling in cattle class? Have a look at our Ryanair carry-on bags for more specific packs.

How The Patagonia Black Hole Tested

Firstly, even though I have said I am not a fan of wearing duffels as backpacks, this one actually feels ok so big hurrah! When we tested this out we were impressed by its versatility and it performed as well for business trips as it did for weekend expeditions. It isn’t a thick as some other duffels on this list which makes it lighter to carry but may mean it doesn’t last as long although we hasten to point out it felt solid and rugged enough to our testers touch.

Is the Patagonia for me?

Carry the Patagonia Black Hole pack as a duffel or a backpack. This all-purpose travel bag is made with lightweight, tear-resistant matte nylon and has protective padding so you can carry everything all day.

Our team have been big fans of this bag for a while and feel the Black Hole is a classic duffel that does what it sets out to do really well without any bells and whistles. Where the back is lacking slightly on organisational features it makes up for with its incredible durability, weather resistance and all-around versatility. The fact it can be folded down into it’s own little bag and thrown into larger packs as an overflow is also something our team is a big fan of.

Want something more? Well, check this out, Patagonia now also make a rolling duffel version of the Black Hole too!

Best Carry On Travel Duffel Bag (#2) –  BAOSHA Canvas Duffel

Although you could easily use the North Face Maleta as your carry on travel duffel bag, our top pick in this category is the BAOSHA Canvas Duffel! It’s one of the most stylish bags on the market .

So, why’s that? This bag belongs in the ‘weekend away in a fancy hotel’ class of duffel bags; this duffel oozes class with its classic look of canvas and faux leather. Durable thanks to its tough materials, it will survive the knocks, dust, and dirt of travel while weighing just 2.8 Pounds. This might just be the most stylish carry on duffel bag on the market!

It has the potential capacity of 55 litres while still being suitable as an airline carry on. Inside you’ll find two zip-close security pockets and a further two open pockets for smaller items, while the outside of the duffel has a further couple of small compartments and external pockets. It also features a removable shoulder strap for great wearability.

• Excellent style
• Durable canvas construction
• Weighs just 2.8 Pounds
• 55 liters may be a little large for some
• No dedicated laptop sleeve
• Faux rather than real leather
• Zips can’t be locked

How The Tileman Canvas Duffel Tested

So, this is not a duffel for serious travelers or outdoor heads. When we tested it we soon came to lament the lower quality material and its lack of special features. While it performed adequately for our testers weekend retreat, he commented that he felt like it may begin to fray in the face of heavier usage.

Is the Tileman Canvas Duffel for me?

If you’re looking for a travel duffel bag that will set the scene for a luxurious or romantic couple of days away, you’ve found it with the Tileman Canvas Duffel!

But more than simply a pretty face, its durability and relative lightness of weight make it a duffel bag you’ll want to reach for again and again!

For those on our team who aren’t always living the dirtbag lifestyle, this duffel finds the perfect balance between cost, functionality and business style. Here at TBB we feel it’s the perfect duffel for commuting with large amounts of gear or people who need space for their gym kid as well as business travellers wanting to look swish on the go.

Best Men’s Leather Duffel – Kodiak Leather 60L Weekender

If you need a bag for a weekend getaway, for everyday use, for business, the  Kodiak 60L is definitely the best all-around men’s leather duffel bag. This stylish choice won’t look out of place anywhere: on a high-end weekend getaway, or just running some errands around town.

Made from all thick  top-grain leather  by the folks at  Kodiak 60l Weekender which is sturdy hardwearing and bloody beautiful.

Not a typical chuck-it-all-in duffel, the Kodiak weekend bag has a few organisation options. The bag includes three exterior pockets that use YKK zips, as well as a zipped  shoe compartment and a  dedicated laptop sleeve  at the bottom of the bag. This external pocket means you can easily take your laptop out, and put it in again when it comes to airport security.

Looking specifically for a men’s bag for the weekend , check out our post for more option

How The Kodiak 60L Weekender Tested

When our tester got his hands on this duffel it wasn’t so much love at first sight as love at first scent – the finished leather smelt just lovely! Anyway the bag is not the lightest duffel on this list and our tester did feel the weight of the leather after long periods of carrying. The zips and fittings all felt solid and the pack generally feels built to last.

All in all this is a super simple, stylish pack well and truly earned its place on this list.

Is The Kodiak 60L Weekender For Me?

Speaking of which, this bag is  carry-on compliant,  so you’ll be able to throw it over your shoulder and breeze right past the luggage carousel on your next trip, which makes this high-quality bag all the more convenient.

This is a stylish, hardwearing and uber-masculine duffel option. Oh, and there’s also a removable shoulder strap for a variety of carrying options.

For the ultimate in style and durability, our team felt this Kodiak leather duffel was a real winner. In fact, they felt if you were looking for a bag you’d have for decades to some, this would be a real sound investment. They just loved how high quality the materials and construction felt alongside the sleek and timeless style.

Best 50 Litre Travel Duffel Bag – Kuhl Escape 50

The KUHL Eskape 50 is a high versatile and durable duffel, custom designed for outdoor travel, and everyday use. 

Here are key features of the KUHL Eskape:

The KUHL Eskape 50 offers litres of storage which provides enough space for a few works worth of travel gear. It has one large main compartment with a U-shaped opening, and then  several external pockets for easy access to essentials.

Its is made from tough and weather-resistant materials, including a 1680D ballistic nylon bottom and a 500D Poly-TPU coated body. This ensures that the Eskape can withstand a bit of battering and is suitable for outdoor use, protecting your gear from the elements.

• Stylish design – looks great in both urban and outdoor settings
• Quality materials that both durable yet comfy to wear
• Loads of storage space.
• Can be a tad heavy – especially when loaded
• Not be as breathable as some other packs and can get sweaty
• It ain’t cheap

Is The Kuhl Eskape 50 For Me?

The KUHL Eskape boasts padded, adjustable shoulder straps as well as a removable padded shoulder strap. This allows users to carry it comfortably as either a backpack or over a shoulder like a classic duffel. It also has reinforced grab handles on each end for easy lifting and carrying.

The KUHL Eskape  50 has several internal and external pockets. These include a zippered mesh pocket inside the lid, a side pocket with a water-resistant zipper, and a front pocket with a key clip and organizational compartments.

Best Women’s Travel Duffel Bag –  Under Armour Women’s UA Motivator Duffle Sport Bag

Its smaller size compared to some of the travel duffel bags on our list makes it great for throwing in some clothes for a last-minute night away from home, or as an everyday duffel for carrying your gym kit.

Its softshell construction means it also folds down incredibly small and can be used as a spare bag without adding much weight to your other luggage! This duffel has a good degree of water resistance, which will keep your kit safe from light rain showers, with other features including a hanging internal pocket to keep small items safe.

• Specifically designed for women
• Lightweight
• Water-resistant
• Hanging internal pocket
• Softshell construction
• No backpack straps
• Not suitable for business travel

How The Under Armour Tested

The tester brought this duffel bag along to a weekend athletic meet. She commented that the colour scheme was a bit too bland for taste, but did appreciate the way in which the bag can be packed down and minimised for day and gym use. In summary, we found this to be a perfectly serviceable day duffel but do question how well it would perform on longer trips in testing weather conditions.

Is the Under Armour Women’s UA Motivator Duffle Sport Bag for me?

Women looking for a simple, lightweight duffel to get their kit from A to B without spending hours packing to fill every nook and cranny of a backpack will be very happy to buy the Under Armour Women’s UA Motivator Duffle Sport Bag. A great everyday travel duffel bag, it also has a great price!

Our team felt this was the best small duffel bag because it just got the job done without being heavy or cumbersome. They felt it was a great affordable and lightweight duffel to use for everyday trips like heading to the beach or the gym and it’s light enough to fold up and throw into your backpack to use whenever you need on your trip.

Best Waterproof Duffel Bag –  YETI Panga 50 Dry Duffel

Considering YETI makes the most durable coolers, insulated tumblers, and packs, expect the same emphasis of quality and durability from their dry duffel. You could probably throw this duffel over a waterfall and your stuff would still stay dry!

This is the best travel duffel bag if you are doing any type of water activity – rafting down a river; living on a boat; travelling in monsoon season; you name it, YETI’s got you.

You could simply attach this to the side or a river tube and it would hold up! It has 6 lash points and 2 long straps so you can haul your bag in multiple ways. 2 easy-to-access mesh pockets keep your valuables safely tucked away. We think 50 litres is a perfect size, but if you need something bigger, this bag also comes in a 75 litre and 100-litre size.

• Most durable duffel bag ever
• Fully Waterproof
• Heavy (price you pay for durability)
• Might be overkill for basic trips

How The Yeti Panga Dry Duffel Tested

We’ll confess now, we did not test this duffel by taking it white river rafting. However, we did fill it up with clothes and drop it in a bath tub to test the water proofing and are pleased to report that the inside stayed perfectly dry.

Of course, the waterproofing may begin to wear off after extended periods of use but based on what we have seen the Yeti Panga feels pretty solid.

Is the YETI Panga 50 Dry Duffel for me?

Keep your gear dry on your next trip with the YETI Panga 50 dry duffel. This fully waterproof bag is designed to handle total water submersion while remaining 100% dry on the inside.

Need a seat? Grab your Panga. Need a backpack? Grab your Panga. Need a personal floatation device? Grab your Panga. This is the most durable travel duffel bag on this list. Use it for your craziest adventures!

Our team are big fans of how well-made this duffel is and how much confidence it gave them when it came to protecting their gear. They really put it to the test and our team were super impressed. In fact, one member ended up capsizing on a fishing trip and this bag held tight full of clothing, gear and phones for over an hour as well as keeping our team member afloat too. Pretty impressive!

Best Business Travel Duffel Bag –  UNIQUEBELLA Suit Travel Duffel

Thanks to the UNIQUEBELLA Suit Travel Duffel, you can still use a duffel bag and travel with the smarter clothes of a business trip. This duffel cleverly opens out flat to create a dedicated compartment for laying suits and shirts flat without folding them tightly; you’ll find them as wrinkle-free when you arrive at your destination as when you packed them away.

There’s also another dedicated compartment for your business shoes, and four internal zip pockets and a small zip-close external pocket. Lastly, at 55 litres, this duffel both has enough volume for a few days away, and is generally airline carry on compliant.

• Rolls out flat to take suits
• Wrinkle-free clothes storage
• Dedicated shoe compartment
• Internal zip-close pockets
• Made from synthetic materials
• No dedicated tech sleeve
• Not for adventure travel!

How The UNIQUEBELLA Suit Travel Duffel Tested

When we tested this duffel travel bag we were quite taken by the novel design and by the dedicated suit compartment. Whether it truly keeps clothes “wrinkle free” does seem like a bit of an exaggeration although none of us owns a business suit so we could not actually test this out.

Is the UNIQUEBELLA Suit Travel Duffel for me?

Need to keep a suit and shirt crease-free while travelling? Here’s the answer, the UNIQUEBELLA Suit Travel Duffel! Its fold-out design makes it super-easy to transport business wear without the need to iron at your destination and takes care of all those little extras with its shoe compartment and necktie pocket to name just two.

Even us vagabonds need to don a suit from time to time and though our team did feel this bag was a little niche, they felt it cornered position perfectly. They were unsure if the bag would be a little gimmicky but in practice they felt the design actually worked well in practical use and kept their gear wrinkle-free and ready to rock!

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Best Duffel Bag for Expedition –  The North Face Base Camp Duffel

When you are hitting the mountains for days on end, you’ll need a duffel bag that is up to the challenge. The North Face Base Camp duffel has been an essential piece of kit for explorers, mountaineers, and adventurers for decades.

• Comes in multiple sizes
• Just 4 lbs in weight
• Ultra Durable
• Come with backpack straps
• Lacks a little rigidity
• Not  fully  waterproof
• Not all versions carry on compliant
• The big sizes are awkward to carry when packed full

How Did the North Face Base Camp Duffel Test?

We tested this bag in the depths of the Karakoram range in Pakistan. It has been snagged against a barbed wire fence, stepped on by pack mules, dropped in the mud, and snowed on for hours. Whenever I head to the mountains for an extended adventure, you better believe that this bag is coming with. 10 stars.

Is the The North Face Base Camp duffel bag for me?

Are you going on a serious adventure and needing to haul all of your gear along for the ride? This is the bag for you. Our team really loved the simple but high-quality nature of this duffel and generally North Face bags as a whole. They liked that this duffel added a bit more in the way of organisational pockets than the Black Hole and also offered a matt style rather than the shiny exterior of the black hole, which some of the team really preferred.

Best Travel Duffel Bag for the Trails –  The North Face Base Camp Voyager Duffel

Well, never thought I would take a duffel bag on hikes and bike rides, but North Face has done it again! This is one of the best all-around travel bags, no question!

You can toss this on top of your car or stow it away on a flight. This bag can easily be used for ANY type of adventure.

The bag unzips for easy access to the main compartment. There is a top padded pocket for delicate items, side pockets for a water bottle and small items, and internal zipper pockets for organization.

The straps and back support are not as padded as The North Face’s hiking backpacks, but it will do the trick for shorter hikes and rides!

• Ripstop weather resistant Nylon material
• Versatile backpack/duffel
• Plenty of organizational compartments
• Not as comfortable as hiking backpacks
• 32 liters might be too small for some

How The North Face Base Camp Voyager Duffel Tested

To test this pack out we brought it along on a multi day camping trip into the wild mountains of Northern Spain. Of course, it did not feel quite as comfortable as a proper hiking backpack would and I did miss the additional support from a dedicated backpack. Still, the straps felt OK and the pack had plenty of room to fit our gear.

Is The North Face Base Camp Voyager Duffel for me?

The North Face Base Camp Voyager Duffel is a mobile base camp for all your mountain-biking, trail-running and skiing escapades. It has all the organizational bells and whistles you need to organize your gear, and multiple uses mean it is a functional bag for a wide array of trips.

Our team felt this was the perfect duffel for those who love adventure travel and outdoor sports. They were particularly impressed by how comfortable it was to carry heavy gear like climbing equipment, especially when the hike in itself is pretty challenging. They also felt it offered a level of organisation for their gear that is pretty rare with these types of large gear bags.

  The Classic Duffle by Mahi  – Best Small Duffel Bag

Looking for the great men’s leather duffel bag days out and short trips? If so, the Classic Duffle by Mahi may be just for you.

Combining traditional elegance with rugged practicality, the MAHI Classic Duffle in Vintage Brown is a lovely luggage piece for those looking for a stylish gym bag , weekend or overnight bag.

It’s made with beautifully supple full-grain leather on the main body and complimented with a fawn cotton lining. Other features include four brass studs on the base, a front zipped pocket for easy access to your essential items, a smaller zipped pocket on the inside and a detachable and extendable shoulder strap with additional padding for comfort.

• Designed for low-cost carrier use
• Soft Leather
• Multiple zippered pockets
• Heavy for size
• Not big enough for many trips
• Not waterproof

How The MAHI Leather Duffel Tested

I’ve tested quite a few pieces from the MAHI leather range. The leather on all of them isn’t exactly high grade, but feels very good for the price point.

Is the MAHI Leather duffel for me?

Being a small bag, this one is approved for carry-on by most airlines either the super strict budget ones. When it comes to packing, this thing thankfully stands up on its own, not falling in on itself as some duffel bags tend to.

Our team felt this was a great compact duffel that still offered good space optimisation. They felt for the minimalist traveller or commuter that doesn’t need a whole heap of gear, it’s the perfect option. They also felt the bag offered decent quality in terms of materials for the money.

Best Large Travel Duffel –  REI Co-op Big Haul Recycled Duffel

Looking to travel with a lot of kits? You’re going to need a large travel duffel! The REI Co-op Big Haul Recycled Duffel comes in a variety of sizes, much like Patagonia’s Black Hole duffel series , and runs up to the 90-litre XL version. It is available at a very reasonable price tag for the volume size of the bag.

What else do you get for the price? You get a duffel specifically intended for rougher travel, made from 600 Dernier waterproof materials with a large D-zip opening for easy access. You also get two removable shoulder straps and a side zip-close pocket for smaller items.

• Made for tougher travel assignments
• 40-90 litres
• Large opening
• No major internal divisions
• Not for business travel
• Has to go in the aircraft hold
• Weight of 1.6kg

How The REI Co-op Big Haul Recycled Duffel Tested

We tested this REI Co-op Big Haul Duffel by adding it to our Pakistan expedition arsenal which means that it gets used to carry packed tents and camping equipment up and down mountain sides. Of course, carting a duffel up a mountain side never easy but this one felt relatively light. It was able to withstand classes with jagged rocks and stayed dry despite drizzle. Result!

Is the REI Co-op Big Haul Duffel for me?

This unisex travel duffel bag by REI certainly fits the definition of a large travel duffel with a capacity of 90 litres. Is it the best? Well, we think it is! Tough and ready for anything, simply throw your kit in, and start your adventure!

Our team just loved how rugged this bag felt and many of them described it as pretty much bulletproof when it came to throwing anything at it! In fact, a few of the team have owned this bag for years on end and it’s been abused in all corners of the world and stood up admirably. They also loved the large zippered compartments that were big enough to use for their shoes or bigger items.

Best Large Travel Duffel (#2) –  Thule RoundTrip Snowsports Duffel

The Thule RoundTrip Snowsports Duffel is a travel duffel bag for anyone who needs to transport larger amounts of baggage since it has a volume capacity of 80 litres.

Rather than having an external compartment at one end of the bag, it has one at either end helping with the organization of large amounts of kit.

The main compartment has a wide D-shaped zip-close opening that makes it simple to load and unload, while the large tags on the zips make them easy to shift even with cold fingers! Water-resistant all around, it has a waterproof bottom so there are no worries about lowering the bag onto the wet ground.

• Large capacity
• The external compartment at both ends
• Wide D-shaped opening
• Large zip tags
• Water-resistant but not fully waterproof
• Too large a capacity for many
• Weight of 3 lbs. 5.9 oz
• Not ideal for business travel

How The Thule RoundTrip Snowsports Duffel Tested

When compared to other duffels on this list the 80-litre Thule RoundTrip Snowsports Duffel is a giant and our tested had no issues in fitting all of his camping gear in. Of course, big bags are heavier and bulkier and our tested did remark that a full packed 80-litre duffel isn’t the easiest carry. The waterproof base was kind of put to the test when the bag was laid on wet ground and we’re pleased to confirm that the pack remained nice and dry.

Is the Thule RoundTrip Snowsports Duffel for me?

If you need a travel duffel bag with a large capacity, the Thule RoundTrip Snowsports Duffel could well be the duffel bag for you! Its 80-litre capacity is divided between the main compartment at two end compartments, while the waterproof base is another fine addition.

Our team are big fans of the Thule brand and expected big things from these duffels. They were of course suitably impressed by the durability and high quality of the bag but mostly their feedback featured high praise for the larger end compartments as well as loving the range of sizes available.

Best Travel Duffel Bag for the Mountains (DURABLE) –  North Face Base Camp

The cylindrically-shaped Base Camp duffel by North Face is a 50-litre capacity bag with an empty weight of just over 1.23 kg. They do carry sizes up to 90-liters as well!

As you would expect from North Face, the Base Camp Duffel is made from durable materials of 80% polyester with 20% polyamide. There’s a separate compartment at one end, and a zipped mesh pocket within the main compartment for easy access to smaller items.

The duffel comes with wide, adjustable, shoulder straps designed to avoid twisting, and padded grab handles. External compression straps around the circumference of the main compartment and at either end of the bag help reduce down and secure your contents.

• Good empty weight
• Made from durable materials
• Pockets for smaller items
• Ergonomically-designed shoulder straps
• Softshell duffel
• Synthetic rather than natural materials

How The North Face Camp Tested

Our first impressions upon taking out the North Face camp were that it very much looks and feels like an expedition piece – as such we are not sure how well it would translate to more “normal” travel usage. As a heavy duty camping and expedition piece its certainly rugged although the fact that its not fully water proof does cost it some points.

Is the North Face Base Camp for me?

This is an iconic, super-tough expedition duffel from The North Face. The separate end compartment means you can keep clean and dirty items divided without endless periods of repacking, while the durable materials used will ensure the Base Camp can be used for more than just the one adventure!

Another fine North Face duffel! Our team once again had high expectations but also wanted to know what made this stand out against the brand’s other offerings. Firstly they felt the Base Camp offered the most durable and weather-resistant materials, meaning they could really push where they could take this thing. With it’s larger size they also appreciated the additional of compression straps to keep everything compact and maximise space.

Best Travel Duffel Bag on a Budget –  Sweetbriar Vintage Canvas Duffel

This stylish bag is one of the best travel duffel backpacks if you’re on a budget! The Sweetbriar Vintage Canvas Duffel is listed under $40 and is perfect for a weekend in the city versus a few days of camping in the wild.

It comes in a very attractive tan canvas and leather-coloured webbing styling. It incorporates zipped compartments on the front of the bag as well as plenty of internal zippers and organisational features. Expansion zips give a total overall volume of 39 litres, plenty for that weekend away, while there are also lock-together carry handles and an adjustable shoulder strap.

• Lovely design
• Comprises zipped compartments
• Expansion zips give 39-liter capacity
• Adjustable shoulder strap
• Not very durable
• Capacity may be too small for some
• Hand wash only

How The Sweetbriar Vintage Canvas Duffel Tested

What we really loved about this travel duffel bag was that in the flesh, it looks and feels like it cost a lot more than $40. If you are looking for a hardcore travel duffel that will survive all weather and last for years then this may not be the one for you. However, if you are after a budget travel bag for an upcoming trip, then perhaps you have found what you need?

Is the Sweetbriar Vintage Canvas Duffel for me?

Any man or woman about town will readily fall in love with this unisex vintage canvas duffel. The ideal size for a weekend away, it consists of smaller compartments and pockets as well as the main compartment and also boasts an adjustable shoulder strap.

Our team felt that for a pretty run-of-the-mill duffel, this thing doesn’t look cheap and with the canvas material it’s also really durable too. They also loved that it was packed full of features like interior pockets, side shoe compartments and hidden valuable pockets.

Best Packable Duffel Pack – Gregory Alpaca Duffel

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

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

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

How The Gregory Alpaca Duffel Tested

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

So first of all, Duffel Bags are awesome. They’re physically tough, your belongings are easy to access and kept safe by the waterproof fabric – even the worst baggage handler can’t do much harm! Below are the most important features to pay attention to when you are deciding on your purchase because there are so many bags on the market!

However, not all Duffels are the same. Choosing the right one requires looking at different factors. Our list of factors below will give you a rough idea of what you should be looking out for when being on the hunt for a new Duffel Bag.

From detachable backpack straps to a rolling duffel, there are more options than you might first think when it comes to the best travel duffel.

What do you plan to carry in your duffel bag? And where are you travelling to? You may need an ultra-durable duffel backpack that can handle the abuse of long-term and international travel, or you may only need a simple bag to get you to/from the airport.

Perhaps you’re going on a boat or river adventure or travelling around Europe in winter. Either way, a waterproof or weatherproof bag is the ticket! Pay attention to the bags’ materials because the best traveling duffel bags are tough enough to deal with your adventures!

When deciding which travel duffel bag for you, you need to first think about your style of packing. Are you looking for a duffel bag that consists of a single large main compartment, or one with several compartments and an internal mesh pocket in addition to the main one?

If you’re travelling for business, you should consider a bag that protects tech gear, such as a laptop, as well as allows you to pack your clothes without creases. You might also want to look at features such as compression straps that keep everything neat and in place.

If you’ve got heaps of gear to organise and need things easy to access you might also want to consider exterior pockets.

Ask yourself: what are you using your travel duffel bag for? There are some excellent duffel bags with incredible style if you’re looking for a bag to take your belonging to a hotel for a weekend of relaxation. Likewise, there are a great number of travel duffels more suited to the great outdoors – offering different levels of weather protection, and weighing more or less too.

Also, consider how comfortable the bag is going to be compared to other duffel bags. Does it offer a padded shoulder strap or even two removable backpack straps? If you’re going to be wearing it for a long time and it’s packed full of all your travel gear, padded straps are a lifesaver!

Finally, you may want the classic duffel bag functionality or one with wheels and/or backpack straps. Whether detachable or integrated, padded shoulder straps don’t add a lot of weight, but can make a bag a lot more comfortable in the long term.

If you’re planning to carry your travel duffel bag for long periods, such as on a camping trip or up and down cobblestone streets in search of your hotel room, weight is going to be a hugely important factor in your decision-making. The best travel duffel bags are those that maximise their space and minimise their weight.

Duffel bags with wheels can weigh significantly more, but if you’re planning to get a rolling duffel and use the wheels versus carrying it on your shoulder, this won’t be a major concern!

In order to compare these duffle bags against one another, we threw them into a gladiatorial pit and forced them to fight to the death…OK so no that did not happen. Instead, various members of Team Broke Backpacker tested these duffels over a period of a number of years taking them on trips. That means that some duffels got put through the gauntlet of a month long vacation whereas got off lightly with a weekend trips. As such, the science isn’t exactly exact here.

Still, we stand by our findings. With each duffel we paid close attention to capacity and packing functionality, we compared how comfortable each duffel felt to carry, assessed how rugged and resilient each one felt and awarded bonus points for style.

Now, you  could spend a fat chunk of $$$ on the WRONG present for someone. Wrong size hiking boots, wrong fit backpack, wrong shape sleeping bag… As any adventurer will tell you, gear is a personal choice.

So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card!  REI is The Broke Backpacker’s retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. And then you won’t have to keep the receipt. 😉

Still have some questions about the best travel duffels? No problem! We’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Here’s what people usually want to know:

Why should you get a duffel bag?

Duffel bags might not be as handy as backpacks, but they’re just as spacious. If you’re not planning on backpacking, duffel bags are the next best option to store all of your gear safely.

Which duffel bag is the best?

We love the Osprey Transporter Expedition Duffel as it can be carried as a duffel bag and backpack at the same time. It’s the best of both worlds.

What’s a good size duffel bag?

A duffel bag can range from 35 to 65 liters. Most of them have an average of 40L which makes them perfect for carry-on.

What should I look for in a duffel bag?

Look for these key features: 1. Quality of the material and price 2. The design 3. Packability, size and weight

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In this guide, we’ve covered the 17 best travel duffel bags on the market. From the big players to smaller brands, we’ve reviewed the ones fit for the great outdoors, your next business meeting, or a short hotel stay.

Nowadays, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to travel gear. Do you want a duffel bag with wheels? One that is lightweight? How about a fully waterproof duffel backpack? All you need to do is pick out the best travel duffel bag for you!

• Should You Buy a Duffel or a Carry-On For Your Next Trip?
• Calling All Backpackers: Discover Your Perfect Carry-on backpacks with Us!
• Check out our rundown of the best travel bags and see what works best for you.
• Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list .

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

Share or save this post

Is it possible to travel with a duffle around the world, or you recommed a backpack fot that? Cheers

Sure, but if you travel long term consider that a duffel will mean carrying the weight of your bag with just one side of your body. It also means you won’t always have the option of two free hands, which you can get from a backpack.

where would u place the wandrd hexad all access?

Hi John, thanks for reaching out. The Wandrd Hexad All Access is a great pack, and one I will be adding to this list shortly. I have been traveling with a Wandrd PRVKE 31 for about a year as my primary daypack/camera bag and I absolutely love it – Wandrd makes great stuff. I have had a bit of first hand experience with the Hexad All Access as well – here are my first impressions: The Hexad All Access is a great pack/duffel for 4-5 days of travel, is tough as nails, and has plenty of interesting features and storage options whether you are a photographer or not. Thanks for bringing this to our attention. Long story short – this duffle is solid and you can’t really go wrong.

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The 11 Best Rolling Duffel Bags of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

We tested 30 bags to find the best rolling duffel for every trip.

In This Article

Jump to a Section

• Our top picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying
• Other Bags We've Written About
• Why Trust T+L

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

New travel gear can quickly add up, so it’s important to invest in the right pieces that will last a long time, especially for luggage and other bags. To help you in this journey, we set out to find the best of the best when it comes to rolling duffels, combing the market before ultimately putting 30 products through a battery of tests.

We packed them to the brim to test their capacity. We went over them with a fine-tooth comb to consider design features big and small. We pushed them, pulled them, and steered them every which way to test their maneuverability. We then took a baseball bat to them to test durability (seriously). And, above all else, we considered all of these tests, and their respective price tags, to consider what total value these bags offer.

It was tough work, but somebody had to do it — and that’s how we landed on these final 11 rolling duffels. We found the perfect pick for anyone traveling light, a standout for camping trips and other outdoor adventures, and so forth.

Best Overall

Patagonia wheeled duffel bag.

Backcountry

• Capacity 5 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Maneuverability 4.5 /5
• Durability 5 /5

It’s incredibly spacious and durable.

Because it’s so large, some may struggle with maneuvering it.

Get on board with the bag that travelers around the world swear by: Patagonia’s Black Hole Duffel, which comes in a 40-liter, a 70-liter, and an unbelievably spacious 100-liter version. We tested the largest size which features a large main compartment that makes it a cinch to pack whatever gear you throw its way, as well as a zippered side pocket and mesh pockets for smaller items you want to keep separate. Packing quickly, we found that we had so much room to spare during tests. If we were to roll the clothes or even use packing cubes, we could fit double or triple the number of items.

The bag is also highly weather-resistant, crafted from a coated ripstop material made from 100 percent recycled fabric, lining, and webbing — exactly what you want to pack for a trip to Antarctica . The durable, oversized wheels performed well during our maneuverability tests, but we did dock half a point because this is a very, very large bag that smaller individuals may have difficulty moving around, especially in crowded spaces. We also noticed, after regularly using the bag for two months, that it sometimes falls over when fully packed because it is front-heavy.

The Details: 9.3 pounds | 32.6 x 16 x 13.7 inches | 100 liters

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Travel + Leisure /Jhett Thompson

Best Weekender

Samsonite weekend wheeled duffel.

Samsonite 

• Capacity 4.5 /5
• Portability 5 /5

Easily carry this bag with its top handles or crossbody strap when it’s not possible to roll it along.

It’s a smaller bag that’s likely best for shorter trips.

Not every rolling duffel needs to be an enormous 100-liter behemoth for carrying the bulkiest, heaviest gear — sometimes it just needs to be big enough for a weekend getaway or a quick business trip. This reliable Samsonite falls solidly into the latter category. It has so many things that business travelers in particular will enjoy, including a front zippered pocket with an integrated USB charging port, a front pocket with a tech organization panel to keep your things in order on the fly, a padded tablet sleeve, and even a removable wristlet. After six months of regularly using this bag, we loved that you can carry it with the handles, shoulder straps, or by rolling it, so you can stay comfortable and mobile throughout the day. The bag is hassle-free due to a retractable push-button handle and sturdy wheels that moved easily over a variety of surfaces. When you’re ready to go at a moment’s notice, this weekender is, too.

The Details: 4.8 pounds | 21.8 x 12 x 12.5 inches

Best Checked

Ebags mother lode checked rolling duffel.

• Design 4.5 /5
• Portability 4.8 /5
• Value 4.7 /5

It has two compartments that are both very deep.

The top compartment’s opening is slightly small relative to its size so you may need to stuff items in fully.

We were pleasantly surprised by just how spacious this 29-inch rolling duffel is, easily able to fit clothing for a weeklong trip with room left over. It’s complete with two large open compartments that are deep enough for packing large loads, two compression straps, and several internal and external pockets for stowing smaller goods including shoes. There is even an expansion zipper to add a few more inches of space. It may not have eye-catching style, but it’s all-in-all a simple, solid bag that (more than) gets the job done. We especially appreciated the large, substantial wheels, durable material, and sturdy handle which makes this duffel a solid choice for a checked bag that makes it to baggage claim and beyond.

The Details: 12 pounds | 29 x 17 x 15 inches

Best Organization

Ogio terminal travel bag.

• Design 4 /5

There’s tons of room thanks to internal and external compartments.

It’s on the heavier side when empty.

If you love built-in organization, this bag has multiple compartments ideal for two weeks’ worth of clothing, shoes, accessories, toiletries, and more that can fit far more than needed. We also appreciated the variety of external handles which make loading this bag into a car or onto a luggage rack a cinch. After six months of use, we think it's the perfect size — large, but not bulky. It gives off major “campfire couture vibes” so we love the idea of taking this bag on an outdoor adventure or road trip, which could call for a wide range of gear, and a need to lug it beyond just using the smooth-rolling wheels.

The Details: 10.6 pounds | 16 x 13 x 29 inches | 95 liters

Best Budget

Travelers club upright rolling duffel bag.

• Portability 3.8 /5
• Durability 4.7 /5

It has very sturdy handles, especially considering the affordable price tag.

It's too big to fit in the overhead bin.

When we packed this duffel with two weeks’ worth of winter gear, there was plenty of room left over. The main compartment was much more spacious than we originally thought, and we especially loved the variety of exterior pockets which made staying organized a breeze. The handle, while sturdy, is on the thinner side and the wheels are smaller than some others on this list, which made maneuvering this bag over carpet, cement, and through tight turns marginally more challenging. After traveling with this bag regularly for six months, we love like how it rolls, but found that it's too big to be used as a carry-on item and must be checked. But, for under $50, you’ll have a hard time finding a better rolling duffel, and it comes in a wide range of colors for an option that will stick out at baggage claim, too.

The Details: 8 pounds | 30 x 12 x 13 inches | 77 liter

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Best Splurge

Tumi large split 2-wheeled duffel.

• Value 4.5 /5
• Durability 4 /5

It maneuvers very well across different environments.

The exterior picks up dust easily.

They say that travel is about the journey, not (necessarily) the destination, and packing a Tumi bag is always an enjoyable part of any journey. In fact, after regularly using the bag for six months, we found that it can fit many weeks' worth of clothing while keeping gear and accessories organized in individual pockets. The fabric and the zippers are substantial and luxurious, and the bag easily held up for multiple bat whacks and drops from a high table. We were especially impressed by how easily it maneuvered over a variety of different surfaces, and noted how smoothly the oversized wheels worked on uneven carpeting, too. This rolling duffel also has enough compartments to satisfy any organization enthusiast, with two sides including one with added compression straps to hold clothing securely. The price tag may be steep, but this bag’s looks and performance make it a worthy investment.

The Details: 11 pounds | 16 x 30.3 x 14 inches | 98 liters

Best Water-resistant

Osprey transporter wheeled duffel 90.

• Design 3.5 /5
• Portability 4.5 /5

It’s an ideal bag for inclement weather and rough handling conditions.

There is no handle to carry the bag horizontally.

Torrential downpours and even the errant sidewalk puddle don’t stand a chance with this water-resistant rolling duffel that even has rainflaps for added protection against the elements. It’s made of extremely durable TPU fabric with a DWR coating to shed water, snow, and other moisture away. It has a large capacity with compression straps to easily fit more than a week’s worth of clothing as well. After using the bag regularly for six months, we found that it also rolls so easily, whether traveling over carpet, sidewalks, or any other surface and is a perfect simple bag for any trip.

The bag did lose points for its exterior handles — there are only short handles on the sides (along with the rolling handle) which would make it easy to pull a bag off the conveyer belt but awkward to lift it high when fully packed. Still, after taking a bat to it, there was zero visible damage to the wheels, frame, or fabric when finished. Overall, it’s an excellent, durable option for protecting your gear during the most intense of adventures.

The Details: 7.5 pounds | 31.5 x 17.3 x 13.8 inches | 90 liters

Gonex Rolling Duffel Bag With Wheels

The bag is like a half-suitcase, half-duffel with a structured bottom and flexible top half.

The bag itself is on the stiffer side.

There’s a fine line between budget and value options — and we feel like this Gonex rolling duffel bag delivered quality at a very competitive price point, stacking up to many of the more expensive bags at a fraction of the cost. It’s a long, stiff bag but we had no issues going through our obstacle course and over rougher surfaces. Even after six months of frequent use, the wheels move with élan and the handle was easy to hold. We loved the design, too — it’s like a half-suitcase, half-duffel with a structured bottom half and a fabric upper flap, plus easy-to-adjust straps on the sides to secure the contents even more. We were also impressed with the sturdiness of this bag, including the structured bottom half, which makes the bag extra durable.

The Details: 10.5 pounds | 16 x 15 x 33.4 inches | 100 liters

Best for Gear

Thule chasm wheeled duffel.

• Portability 4 /5

The main compartment is basically just one giant, super-deep pocket that's perfect for large items.

The bag is so large it can be difficult to roll.

For anyone who wants a large-capacity bag with a simple design, the Thule Chasm wheeled duffel is the perfect choice. If you're packing for a long trip or one that involves bringing a lot of bulky items, this is a great option thanks to its large compartment that is easy to pack. There's also an additional pocket on the top with a mesh opening between it and the main compartment, as well as two mesh zipper pockets on the lid to keep smaller items organized and secure.

The handle works well, but the bag is so bulky, the best way to transport this bag is by rolling. We found that the wheels glide quite smoothly, but the bag can be unwieldy due to its size, so it may not be best for those who know they're likely to move in a hurry. Throughout our tests, we found the bag to be extremely durable with no damage to the bag after we hit it with a bat. The outer seems exceptionally tear-resistant and thick, so great for anyone looking to get the most out of their luggage.

The Details: 10.2 pounds | 15.4 x 16.9 x 32 inches | 110 liters

Best Lightweight

Eagle creek cargo hauler.

• Maneuverability 3 /5

It’s the lightest bag we tested and it even includes a packing cube and convertible backpack straps.

After using this bag for six months, we felt it can be cumbersome and isn't suitable for light packers.

This bag is proof that when it comes to luggage, bigger can, in fact, be better. It packs an astonishing 130 liters of volume (which is rare to find, even in bags two or three times its weight), yet manages to clock in at a positively featherweight four pounds, seven ounces—making it one of our favorite lightweight luggage options. But just because it’s big doesn’t mean it doesn’t pull its own weight — it’s constructed from an abrasion-resistant material that’s designed to last, and is water-repellant for anything from rain to sleet and snow.

Our favorite thing about this bag was that it also converts to a backpack, which can justify the fact that it won’t stand upright (as you wouldn’t want a hard frame pushing into your back if carrying that way). We can see this bag being an excellent choice for a safari bush plane with weight limits, or any instance when you wanted to start off with a featherweight bag before loading up your gear into the bag and the included packing cube.

The Details: 4.4 pounds | 34 x 13.75 x 15 inches | 130 liters

Best Carry-on

Vera bradley foldable rolling duffel bag.

 Amazon

• Value 4.6 /5
• Durability 4.6 /5

After six months of regularly using this bag, we're in love with the hefty bottom compartment that’s great for packing shoes.

We docked half a point for capacity because the bag is a little small.

The ideal carry-on is one that not only performs well, but looks good doing it, too. This bag manages to do both. It’s made from ReActive, a lightweight, durable, water-repellent material made from recycled water bottles, and folds down neatly for storage when not in use. There’s an interior curtain that can be zippered to separate the top and bottom compartments to keep you organized, and the main compartment also features one mesh slip pocket for smaller items. In fact, we packed enough items for a several-day trip in the top before realizing there was room at the bottom for at least four more pairs of shoes. Plus, this being Vera Bradley, the bag also comes in a few stunning patterns as well — so in a sea of black carry-on bags, you’ll be sure to stand out.

The Details: 10 x 20.5 x 12.5 inches | 5.6 pounds

Other Rolling Duffels We Liked

Some rolling duffels we tested couldn’t quite earn a spot on our list, but had standout features that may meet the needs of some travelers.

Briggs & Riley Baseline Large Two-wheel Duffel : This luxury rolling duffel definitely delivers on the style front. We especially liked that it had both a large duffel section and a flat packing section, but it is on the more expensive side and only had one exterior pocket.

Travelpro Bold by Travelpro Check-in Drop-Bottom Expandable Rolling Duffel : This rolling duffel is made from a rugged, water-repellant and stain-resistant polyester fabric and comes with a reinforced telescoping handle, but it’s incredibly bulky and may be difficult to store.

In our quest to find the best-of-the-best wheeled bags, we combed the marketplace and narrowed our top selections down to 30 rolling duffels that then underwent a vigorous luggage testing process over a six-month period. We weighed them with luggage scales while empty before filling carry-on-sized duffels with a week’s worth of clothes and checked-size duffels with closer to two week’s worth of clothes (and used the same items for each sample bag, to compare how the exact clothes fit bag to bag). We considered organizational and storage features such as padded sleeves, compression straps, pockets, and external daisy chains. We obsessed over how every single zipper opened and closed, too.

The tests continued with how these bags might perform in the real world. We rolled the duffels back and forth across a range of surfaces to test them for maneuverability, on everything from smooth lab floors to high-pile carpets. We even set up an obstacle course to make sure these bags can turn on a dime. We examined how much the external handles helped us move the bag from car to curb and back again. And, perhaps most fun of all, we took a baseball bat to each bag to test them for durability. Ultimately, we rated each bag on a five-point scale in a number of categories and the top performers are the ones you see on this list.

Tips for Buying a Rolling Duffel Bag

Check your airline’s size requirements.

Even the perfect rolling duffel won’t be much use to you if it doesn’t meet your airline’s size requirements for carry-on or checked bags, so be sure to check online before committing to a new bag. This is especially important when it comes to carry-on duffel bags . It’s also worth mentioning that since duffel bags lend themselves to being stuffed to the brim, you may want to consider how much your bag weighs, especially if it’s on the larger side.

Consider pockets, compartments, and other organizational features

With a roomy duffel bag, you may be tempted to go with a “more-is-more” mentality when it comes to packing, especially with the higher-volume duffels that have truly enormous main compartments. But it’s worth considering the smaller stuff, too. Different models of bags come with different varieties of internal and external organizational features such as zippered compartments, padded laptop or tablet sleeves, or even included packing cubes. It all depends on how organized you’d like to be, and how much you’ll depend on your bag itself to keep you organized.

Look for multiple carrying options

A duffel, once packed, can vary widely in terms of bulk and weight, and a good bag will keep up with you in a variety of environments. You’ll want to make sure your bag can be carried in multiple ways, whether that’s by hand via a top handle, by its telescoping handle as it’s rolled down long airport hallways, or perhaps by convertible backpack or crossbody straps for other alternatives.

Look for durable materials

The right duffel bag can last a lifetime, especially if you buy one made from the right materials. This is the kind of bag you’ll probably be checking at airports, throwing under buses, and really putting through the ringer in terms of durability, so look for materials that are up for the challenge. Ripstop fabrics in particular are extremely durable but also lightweight, and products coated with DWR or other weather-resistant coatings are an added bonus.

There’s no right or wrong answer here. But for shorter business trips or weekend getaways, something carry-on sized with a maximum of 40 liters in volume, such as a weekender bag , is probably enough. If you’re packing for a week or more, or looking to pack bulky camera equipment or the like, look at bags upwards of 100 liters in size.

Duffel bags are spacious, flexible, lightweight, and easy to carry. They don’t always have the same structural support or protective elements of a suitcase, making them best for things that can’t necessarily break in transit. So, if you’re just traveling with clothes and soft goods, a duffel bag is a good choice for you.

The first step is always to read the manufacturer’s instructions — but most duffel bags can be cleaned with a damp rag, perhaps with a little soap or white vinegar, and then allowed to air dry fully before being packed again or stowed away.

Other Bags We've Written About

We've given plenty of other impressive rolling duffel bags a whirl — some of which we've covered in the past . These picks stood out because of their durability, quality materials, and impressive capacity, and we think they're worth considering,

Ektronik Rolling Weekend Duffel Bag : Made from durable, water-resistant nylon, it fits under most airplane seats yet offers ample space for a one-to-three-day trip.

Rains' Texel Check-in Bag : Those who frequent destinations with plenty of precipitation (whether that’s ski resort snow or tropical rain) would do well to invest in a fully waterproof duffel. The Texel Check-in Bag from Rains is a great option.

Eagle Creek No Matter What Rolling Duffel Bag XL : When size matters, choose the Eagle Creek No Matter What Rolling Duffel Bag XL. With a massive capacity of 130 liters, it pushes the boundaries for the maximum size allowable by most airlines but should offer enough room for just about anything you want to pack.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this article, contributor Todd Plummer used the T+L team’s testing insights as well as his own research to compile a list of the best rolling duffel bags for travel.

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Description.

• 9 pockets—including one for your shoes • Gym. Work. Travel. Endless possibilities

• Meet the essential large weekender bag you can’t live without. The Luka Duffle Bag is perfect for the gym, as an everyday carry or an overnight bag for travel. It also includes a shoe compartment to keep your kicks separate. You’ll be using this quality bag again and again.

Specifications

Materials | Polyester

Weight | 2 lbs

Packing Capacity | 25 L

Exterior Dimensions | 12" x 16" x 8"

Warranty and Return Policy

• Covered by the 1-Year Limited CALPAK Warranty
• Please check the Return Policy here

All about the Luka Duffel

The major details, compare the sizes of luka duffels, exterior shoe compartment, lightweight, water-resistant and scratch-resistant material, luggage trolley sleeve, multiple interior and exterior pockets.

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I just used my duffel for the first time for a weekend trip to Colorado and I loved it. It fit perfectly under the seat on the plane. It actually fit standing up so I even had extra room to stick my feet under the seat if I wanted to. It's really lightweight so it's not hard to carry if you don't have a carry-on roller to put it on, but if you do have a roller, the slit on the back makes it convenient to slide onto the handle.

I love this bag! Sturdy, well-designed, and so versatile! The pockets are so helpful for keeping everything organized while traveling! 10/10!!!!

I love this bag, i will probably order another one in a different color for different things. I bought this and use it as my gym bag, has a nice spot for my gym shoes to keep them separated, I also love it because of how big it is, fits everything and more. I got the color bubblegum, 10/10

I love this bag so much. The fabric and the build are sturdy but also flexible. The purple color is much more vibrant in person, which I was hoping for. I can't wait to take it to Hawaii soon!

(Chose Bubblegum as color for review because it is making me pick one and Lilac isn't an option.... but I ordered the Lilac Purple :) )

I love my Luka duffel bag! There is a pocket for a pair of sneakers, the inside has some pockets to sort your stuff like charges, hand sanitizer and other small things. Great for a 3 day trip!

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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.”