Versatile Travel Duffle Options

Whether you’re leather duffle bag out for a weekend excursion, hiking to your next hostel in South America, or flying to the other side of the world, a well-chosen duffel bag is a fantastic option. Unlike hard-sided luggage, these bags are comfortable to carry for long distances, and they’re also a breeze to maneuver on buses or airplanes. They’re also easy to squish into tiny Airbnb closets, or fit into the trunk of your rental car.

These bags come in a variety of sizes, from 6L to 150L+, though most are designed for carry-on use. The best ones are made with a sturdy frame and a flexible body that can be easily manipulated in tight spaces. They’ll also feature a spacious main compartment with plenty of pockets and padded straps for comfortable carrying.

Best Leather Sleeve Options to Keep Your Notebook Safe & Scratch-Free

They’re often constructed from a durable and water-resistant fabric, such as Polyester Ripstop or TPE Fabric Laminate. These fabrics have a crinkly, plasticy feel, but they’re highly resilient and tough enough for a wide range of excursions. Many duffles also have a water-resistant zipper and a waterproof bottom, which adds some extra peace of mind to rough trips.

Fancy add-ons like a waterproof zipper, unique storage compartments, and cushy backpack straps are found on expedition duffels. These features make these bags a bit overkill for most, but they can add a lot of durability and functionality. The best of these, like Black Diamond’s StoneHauler, use super-durable SuperGrid ripstop fabric for exceptional ruggedness and versatility.