With the wide choice of luggage available today, choosing something that suits your needs can be a bit confusing. Whilst there are many who prefer more organized luggage like a suitcase, there are others who swear by a travel duffel bag. A duffel bag is sturdy and flexible enough to be stored into tight spaces and generally stands up quite well to rough handling. Added to this is the grab-and-go portability that it offers.
These bags have been around for a long time. They became especially popular during WWII when duffels made from canvas were issued to defense personnel as a durable means of transporting their gear. After the war, the convenience and durability of these bags were soon appreciated by others too. As the popularity of the duffel bag grew, subtle changes in style and fabric were introduced to make them more appealing.
Today the choices available are quite staggering. From sturdy canvas to synthetic fabrics and a variety of colors and styles, one is spoilt for choice. So how does one choose the best travel duffel bag? Our guide below will help sort out some of the confusion in your head. We’ve also reviewed what we feel are the 13 best travel duffel bags of 2020 to make it easier for you to decide.
How To Choose The Right Travel Duffel Bag
We know that most duffel bags stand up pretty well to the test of rough handling. Even if they’ve been thrown around at airports or on the road, the best ones still come out none the worse for wear. While the flexibility of their shape has a lot to do with it, there are other factors that contribute to the sturdiness of the bag. If you keep these pointers in mind, you can’t go wrong with choosing the right travel duffel bag.
Material
With any luggage that you buy you want to make sure that the material is of the highest quality. No one wants to invest in a bag that rips or gives way after the very first trip. In fact, with duffel bags, one has to be even more careful because of rough handling. That’s probably one of the main reasons for deciding on a duffel bag in the first place. You want to be able to shove it into a tight space or throw it into the back of a cab without stressing about whether it will hold up.
Duffels are no longer made only from canvas but are available in a wide range of materials. Make sure the material used is durable, with reinforced stitching and piping on the exterior seams. While canvas used to be the most preferred material, today ripstop nylon, leather, polyester, and laminated nylon skins are equally popular.
If you’re going with leather be sure that it is genuine leather and not faux leather to avoid nasty surprises. Vinyl is not a good option either as it is not durable enough. A bag that is water-resistant is an additional plus point. Also, look out for a reinforced base with metal studs or feet that will prolong the life of the bag.
Functionality
Obviously the first thing you need to consider about the bag is the size. Are you looking for carry-on luggage or something bigger? There are restrictions on the permitted size for carry-on luggage so make sure to check the airline baggage policy. With bigger bags, however, you want to be sure that you have some sort of organizational space. Wider openings with a clamshell design, additional pockets for smaller items, dividers and good zippers help in better organization.
Test the quality of the zippers by zipping and unzipping the bag several times. Zippers that are hard to move or catch the side of the fabric won’t last long. YKK or RiRi are good zippers to have. Bigger zippers are also much better.
Handles and Wheels
Another thing that needs special attention is the handles. While the first thing to look out for is strong handles, you also want something that is easy to carry. Adaptable handles are best if you’re going to be using your bag in various environments. If you prefer carrying a bag on your back, look for one that can double up as a backpack. Many duffel bags come with the option of removable padded backpack straps. For bags that you’ll be carrying only a short distance, shoulder straps are most convenient.
It’s also a good idea to look out for wheels on bigger duffel bags for better mobility. However, one thing that you need to bear in mind is that a bag with wheels will weigh more.
Style
When it comes to style, this is a personal choice as various travelers have their own preferences. Duffels come in three main categories, rounded, squared or wheeled. Rounded bags are tube-shaped with a top closure or side closure option. The top closures also come with drawstrings and are popular with military personnel while the latter is more popular with athletes.
A squared duffel is more rectangular with a side zipper. The box shape makes these bags more flexible and they are generally outfitted with extra zippered compartments. They’re generally easier to pack too as they stand up on their own.
Wheeled duffels, on the other hand, have a rigid bottom because of the wheels. They have U-zipper openings for more efficiency in packing and are generally divided into different sections. Wheeled bags with no frame can be quite difficult to maneuver as they tend to sag. However, if you’re looking for something lightweight then its best to forgo the ones with a frame, especially if you’re going to be carrying the bag at some point.
AmazonBasics Ripstop Rolling Travel Luggage Duffle Bag
13
This is a great duffle bag for the budget-conscious traveler. It may not have all the fancy frills like some of the top brands but it serves the traveler well. You’ll be surprised by how much you can pack into this compact wheeled duffel. The ruggedly built duffel has a 100% polyester top whilst its sides and base are made from reinforced woven ripstop fabric. This fabric protects the bag from tearing and ripping and holds up well to rough handling.
The bag is available in three different sizes to suit various needs. What we like about the bag is the flexibility. You can choose to pull it along using the telescoping handle and in-line wheels or sling it over your shoulder. The removable shoulder strap can be worn over-the-shoulder or like a crossbody bag. It can be completely detached and stored if you don’t need to use it.
Another great thing about this bag is the organization space. A mesh center flap that runs the full length of the bag, divides the main bag into two, helping in more efficient packing. There are many pockets and compartments on the interior and exterior of the bag to store smaller items.
What We Love About It
- Good quality at an affordable rate
- Great organizational space
Pros
- Inline wheels with telescoping handle
- Ruggedly built
- Multiple compartments for organization
- Removable shoulder strap
Cons
- The support rail on the bottom is not very sturdy and breaks easily
- Quite heavy when empty
Price & Info HERE
AmazonBasics Ripstop Rolling Travel Luggage Duffle Bag With Wheels – 37 Inch, Black
Thule Crossover 87L Rolling Duffel Pack
12
You get the best of both worlds with this bag, the convenience of a soft expandable duffle or wheeled bigger luggage. With a capacity of 87 liters and top-class durable material, you can be sure that you’ll get your money’s worth from this bag.
The lightweight aluminum hardware, water-resistant fabric, and a molded polypropylene back panel are great for rugged travel. Patented Thule V-Tubing telescoping handles and durable oversized wheels make this one of the best travel bags with wheels.
Sometimes on a bag this size, it’s the small things that make all the difference. What caught our attention is the isolated crush-proof SafeZone compartment for storing your eyewear or portable electronics. A great thing about this safe compartment is that it can be removed and locked for better security. The organizational space in the main bag is great too, with a divider to segregate dirty and clean clothes.
What We Love
- The crushproof SafeZone compartment for storing eyewear and other fragile gear.
Pros
- Lightweight, water-resistant and durable
- V-Tubing telescoping handles and oversized wheels for better mobility
- Compression straps
- Divider for clothes
- Crushproof Safe Zone compartment
Cons
- Higher priced
- The V-Tubing telescoping handle tends to get stuck and needs both hands to push two release buttons
Price & Info HERE
Thule Crossover 87-Litre Rolling Duffel Pack
High Sierra AT3 Drop-Bottom Wheeled Duffel
11
Versatility is the high point on the High Sierra AT3 duffel bag for men as it can be converted into 3 different styles. Hidden padded straps can be removed to convert the bag into a backpack. Alternately the telescoping retractable handle converts the bag into a wheeled upright bag. Oversized corner-mounted skate style wheels are designed for smooth and rough terrain. Firm handles give you the added flexibility of carrying it as a regular duffel.
We were quite impressed with the functionality of the bag. An expandable main compartment with front-load access and a moveable divider helps you pack more efficiently. Added to this is the large drop-bottom lower compartment with hold-down straps ideal for ironed clothes or shoes. The bag also has just the right amount of extra pockets and compression straps.
What We Love About It
- The versatility and functionality of this bag
Pros
- Water-resistant durable material
- Can be used in 3 ways, backpack, duffel or wheeled upright bag
- Stands upright on its own
- Good organization space
Cons
- The bottom tends to wear out soon
- Handles are not very strong
Price & Info HERE
High Sierra AT3 Drop-Bottom Wheeled Duffle
Plambag Canvas Duffel Bag For Travel
10
A multifunction travel bag that isn’t too bad on the looks either. This canvas duffel bag looks surprisingly good with its classical bronze-tone hardware and leather trimmings. For a bag this size you’ll be surprised by how much you can fit into it. And yes, it does meet with the carry-on regulation standards.
The interior compartment is spacious enough to pack several items including a 15″ laptop. It also has to 2 side zipper pockets and 1 back zipper pocket for smaller items. The padded bottom also has wear-resistant rubber feet at the bottom to protect it from damage.
This bag is convenient to carry around with a padded adjustable shoulder strap and strong handles. Overall we think this is one of the best low range of duffel bags. It’s definitely value for money.
What We Love About It
- It looks pretty stylish and holds a lot
Pros
- Made from heavy-duty canvas
- Classical bronze-tone hardware
- Multiple pockets
- Ideal for carry-on luggage
- Available in 4 colors
Cons
- The strap can be a bit of a problem as it’s not as sturdy as it appears
Price & Info HERE
Plambag Canvas Duffle Bag for Travel, 50L Duffel Overnight Weekend Bag(Coffee)
Bago 80L Duffle Bag for Women & Men
9
Priced below $25 with about 2,000 reviews, there definitely is something special about this multipurpose travel duffel bag! You can conveniently fold the large bag and store it away in a drawer when not in use, or take it to the gym when you’re done traveling. Since the bag is so lightweight, you can even take it on the flight with you or carry it empty as an emergency backup.
The HoneyCombRipStop fabric of the bag is pretty good as it resists wear and tear and is also water-resistant. A bag of this size has ample storage space with a few extra pockets for better organization. We especially liked the expanding side-pocket which would be ideal for separating dirty clothes. One of the best things about it is that it has a separate odor-free space for packing shoes. A removable shoulder strap gives you more carrying options.
What We Love About It
- Extremely lightweight and easy to store
- Convenient odor-free shoe pocket
Pros
- Very spacious
- Expanding side pocket for better management
- Lightweight and folds up into a flat square when not in use
- Durable water-resistant material
- Secure stitching
- Available in 8 different colors
Cons
- Shoulder straps come with a plastic connection which may not last long
- Uneven weight distribution if not packed full
Price & Info HERE
Bago 80L Duffle Bag for Women & Men – 27″ Travel Bag Large Foldable Duffel bag
Leather Travel Duffel Bag Underseat
8
A bag with class and space is how we would describe this weekend bag. Made from tough genuine buffalo hide, and fitted with break-resistant YKK zippers, this heavy-duty bag is ideal as carry-on luggage. It will comfortably fit overhead or under the seat. The patchwork design and natural marbling look good too.
Although it doesn’t look very big, don’t let that fool you. The bag has a roomy main pocket with two large bottom compartments for shoes. The zip pockets on the outside and inside are ideal for small items. With the adjustable straps, the bag is also fairly easy to handle.
What We Love
- The classy look and functionality of this bag
Pros
- Made from genuine tough leather
- Separate compartment for shoes
- Extra pockets for organization
Cons
- May not meet the carry-on specifications of some airlines
Price & Info HERE
Handmade Leather Duffel Bag For Men | Airplane Travel Carry On Duffle Bag | Underseat Weekender Luggage By Rustic Town
Yeti Panga Airtight Waterproof Submersible Bags
7
True to its name, this bag is designed to keep your gear dry no matter how wet it gets. So for your next big outdoor adventure, this is probably one of the best travel duffel bags to invest in. The Hydrolock zipper and U-dock terminal together create an airtight seal. You can be sure that even if you have a tumble into the water with this on your back, the stuff in your bag will remain dry.
Its thick skin shell made from high-density nylon and thick ‘tpu’ lamination will stand up to any hard knocks. The metallic hardware is unbreakable with lashpoints that make it easy to haul. Convenient straps allow you to carry this as a backpack. However, the lack of a shoulder strap may be a little inconvenient for some.
When a bag is made this durable you know it’s not going to come cheap, so it will probably not fit into many small budgets. This bag will not suit most people either as it’s designed for adventure rather than the airport.
What We Love About It
- Waterproof and great for outdoor adventure
Pros
- Hydrolock zipper and U-dock terminal create an airtight seal
- Waterproof
- Durable exterior that will take a hard beating
- Can be worn as a backpack
- Available in 3 different sizes
Cons
- The zipper is a little fragile and tends to get stuck
- Highly-priced
Price & Info HERE
YETI Panga Airtight, Waterproof and Submersible Bags
Gonex 40L Packable Travel Duffel Bag For Boarding Airline
6
You’re spoiled for choice with this travel duffel bag due to its wide range of 15 colors to choose from. The lightweight bag is made from durable and water-resistant honeycomb nylon fabric with premium zippers. This multipurpose bag will serve you well as carry-on luggage, an overnight case or even for the gym.
Multiple pockets, including a separate shoe compartment and spacious main compartment, help with efficient packing. A long adjustable shoulder strap and 2 firm handles make handling easy. The removable shoulder strap can be stored out of the way when not in use. A self-containing pouch also enables you to zip up and store the bag compactly after your travels.
What We Love About It
- The wide range of colors to choose from
Pros
- Durable water-resistant fabric
- Separate shoe compartment
- Adjustable shoulder strap
- Can be folded and stored in a self-containing pouch
- Strong handles
Cons
- The bag is smaller than an average duffel bag
Price & Info HERE
Gonex 40L Packable Travel Duffle Bag for Boarding Airline, Lightweight Foldable Gym Duffle Water Repellent & Tear Resistant
Carry-on Garment Bag Large Duffel Bag Suit Travel Bag
5
For someone who travels often on short business trips and prefers a duffel bag, we highly recommend this one. The beauty of this duffel is that it can be converted into a garment bag for suits or dresses. It also has a large enough 45L space and multiple pockets for better organization. The exterior pocket is handy for storing documents or electronics, whilst a separate pouch keeps shoes separate.
Another thing that impressed us was the sturdiness of this compact duffel. The lightweight bag is ergonomically designed with a detachable shoulder strap and a sleeve to slip it over the handle of a trolley. Made from a high-quality Cationic waterproof and scratch-resistant fabric, you can be sure that your belongings will be quite secure.
What We Love About It
- The adaptability of this bag to carry everything you need for a business trip
- Aesthetically pleasing
Pros
- Spacious with ample space for organizing belongings
- Separate shoe compartment
- Sturdy construction with waterproof fabric and strong zippers
- Available in two colors and sizes
Cons
- The traditional buckles on the pockets may not go down well with those who prefer a magnetic snap
Price & Info HERE
Carry-on Garment Bag Large Duffel Bag Suit Travel Bag Weekend Bag Flight Bag with Shoe Pouch for Men Women (Black)
Olympia 8 Pocket Rolling Duffel Bag 22 Inch
3
With over 5,500 reviews on Amazon, we were curious to know what makes this duffel bag so special. The first thing that struck us was obviously the price. A travel bag that costs less than $25 is definitely a good bargain. However, we wondered if something that affordable would hold up well, and we were pleasantly surprised.
Another thing that stood out for us was the well thought out design. It has big straight sides which makes it more steady and easier to pack. A bag with so many pockets is definitely a godsend to securely store smaller items. The U shaped top opening also makes it easier to access the main compartment.
The Supreme ‘PROTECFLON’ Polyester material is strong and durable. It makes the bag ultra-light and soft so you can comfortably fit it into the overhead bin. Handles that stick together makes it easy to carry if using as a duffel, although we preferred rolling it. The recessed in-line wheel system was easy enough to maneuver with the retractable handle. However, we’re not too sure how well it will hold up being dragged on rough terrain. The bag is available in a range of sizes and colors to suit both men and women. The prices also differ according to size and color.
Price & Info HERE
Olympia 8 Pocket Rolling Duffel Bag
S-Zone Oversized Canvas Genuine LeatherÂ
2
If you’re on the lookout for a great looking carry on duffel bag this is as good as any. With its classy soft canvas and leather trimmings, this bag suits both men and women and is one of the best travel duffel bags to take on a weekend trip.
The zinc-alloy hardware on the bag not only adds to the look but won’t corrode easily either. You can use the grab handles to securely carry the bag or sling it over your shoulder with the removable straps. While the bag is not overtly big on organization space, it does have a few zippered pockets on the inside and outside. The small zippered pocket on the outside is ideal for storing your passport while going through security. Whilst everything about the bag seems nice and sturdy, the main zipper does not hold up very well.
What We Love About It
- Good construction with great aesthetic appeal
Pros
- Very spacious
- Soft durable canvas with genuine leather trimmings
- Affordable price range
- Fits in the overhead bin
- Available in 6 colors
Cons
- Leather straps transfer color to clothing
- The main zipper is a little weak
Price & Info HERE
S-ZONE Oversized Canvas Genuine Leather Trim Travel Tote Duffel Shoulder Weekend Bag Weekender Overnight Carryon Handbag
Eagle Creek Travel Gear Luggage Large Wheeled
1
One of the most durable travel duffel bags is this water-resistant bag from Eagle Creek. The exterior Bi-Tech fabric makes this bag weatherproof and abrasion-resistant. It also has lockable exterior zippers and a protective storm flap to protect your belongings from the elements. The tough webbing and seam reinforcements also scored big with us.
This bag has a large storage capacity of 105 liters, but the best thing is that it comes with wheels to make transportation easy. The oversized, heavy-duty, treaded wheels help in smooth mobility. Adjustable removable shoulder straps, a-no slip center haul handle and side grab handles all had to the efficient handling of this bag.
What impressed us was the ‘no matter what warranty.’Â Anything with a lifetime warranty says a lot about the product as it shows how committed the company is about quality. This is a typical no-frills duffle bag so don’t expect many organizational pockets. Except for the front zipper pocket, there’s not much else.
While most of the negative feedback is about the bag’s difficult handling on wheels, one must remember that the bag is light and easy to store. It would have been a lot heavier if there was a supporting frame. The bag works really well as a stationary bag but is not easy to pull for taller people.
What We Love About It
- The lifetime ‘no matter what warranty’
- The durable material, tough webbing, and seam reinforcements
Pros
- Excellent fabric and stitching
- High quality handles, zippers and wheels
- Nice colors
- Good packing space
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- It doesn’t maneuver well and tends to sag.
- The lack of an expandable handle makes it difficult to pull.
Price & Info HERE
Eagle Creek Travel Gear luggage Large Wheeled, Slate Blue
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are these bags called duffel bags?
The name comes from a small town in Belgium named Duffel where the thick material of these bags was originally made. This town near Antwerp produced the coarse woolen cloth for these bags as far back as the mid-17th century. In the early days, a duffel bag was a large, cylindrical bag that was closed at the top, usually by a drawstring.
What size duffel bag is allowed as carry-on luggage?
While the standard carry-on luggage permitted on a flight is 22 x 14 x 9 inches, many airlines have their own luggage policy. It’s always best to check the baggage policy of the airline you’re flying with. A safe bet would be to go for something a little smaller, especially for international flights.
What is the difference between a duffel bag that is water-resistant and one that is water-proof?
Water-resistant bags are designed to protect your bag and belongings from light rain and dampness. They are usually made from ripstop fabric that is treated with a DWR solution. However, bear in mind that these bags cannot be dipped in water or will not stand up to heavy rain. Waterproof bags, on the other hand, are generally made from nylon and coated in acrylic, silicon or polyurethane. This gives them the extra edge and will keep your gear safe even if the bag falls into water by mistake.
How much should I pay for a good travel duffel bag?
The price of a bag entirely depends on your budget and what you’re looking for. While the top-end bags come with many frills and some additional features, a budget bag like some of the ones we’ve reviewed is just as good. If the bag serves the purpose that you have in mind and is of good quality, the price is irrelevant. Sometimes highly-priced bags don’t live up to the hefty tag and give out by the end of a trip. Remember that a higher price does not always mean higher quality.
Final Thoughts
If you travel a lot, then it’s wise to invest in luggage that will stand the test of rough handling. While duffel bags generally sail through these tests, don’t take their outward construction for granted. Something that looks good on the outside may not stand up to the rigors of travel, so make sure you research the bag well before you buy it. Buying guides and customer reviews on a product are the best way to go.
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