The 8 Best Duffel Bags of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Versatile luggage pieces you can take to any destination

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Best Duffle Bags
TripSavvy / Nick Kova.

For weekends away and other short trips, duffel bags are an ideal pick for your luggage. They’re lightweight, so they won’t dent your airline allowance, and they can be as bare bones or as feature-packed as you’d like. Plus, they can easily fold down for storage or travel flat in your checked bag as a backup carry-on if you do a little shopping on your vacation. And they look cool, whether you go for a classic take on the duffel or a more modern design.

There are a ton of duffel bags out there to choose from, including classic designs, affordable-but-durable canvas bags, and convertible wheeled options. We tested two dozen duffel bag options in our Brooklyn testing lab.

Best Overall

Kipling Bori Duffle Bag

Kipling Bori Duffle Bag

Kipling

Our Ratings
  • Capacity
    5/5
  • Design
    5/5
  • Portability
    5/5
  • Value
    4/5
  • Durability
    5/5
What We Like
  • Very durable

  • Spacious with extra smaller pockets

  • Great all-rounder

What We Don't Like
  • Style is a bit outdated

Kipling’s famous duffels are incredibly well made—one reason why our testers liked the Bori Duffle Bag most. Testers loved how spacious the bag was and how that size could be increased or decreased using the side buckles. We also enjoyed the exterior and interior zip pockets and sheath pockets for storing smaller items. It was one of the lightest bags we tested, weighing less than 2 pounds. It also passed our durability tests without a noticeable mark, scuff, or scratch.

Said one tester: "This is a great duffel, although there isn't a separate compartment or bag for shoes or anything else that you want to separate, which some may prefer. The design isn't particularly sophisticated either, but as a duffel, it is really great, with a large capacity, very smooth zippers, and a lightweight feel."

Another of our testers has owned a Kipling duffel for the past 10 years, and despite using it for long-term travel, there’s barely a stitch out of place. Plus, soft sides keep the bag shape flexible, so packing is a breeze—and you have a bit of wiggle room for any souvenirs you pick up along the way.

Weight: 1.6 pounds | Dimensions: 24 x 10.5 x 14 inches | Volume: 49 liters | Planet and Social Impact: Not listed

Kipling Bori Duffle Bag
TripSavvy / Nick Kova.

Best Budget

Gonex Canvas Duffel Bag

Gonex Canvas Duffel Bag

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Capacity
    4.5/5
  • Design
    4.5/5
  • Portability
    4.5/5
  • Value
    4.5/5
  • Durability
    5/5
What We Like
  • Easy to maintain

  • Spacious external pockets

  • Comfortable handles and detachable shoulder straps

What We Don't Like
  • Nothing yet

Gonex's Canvas Duffel Bag is a classic-looking duffel with handles, a shoulder strap, ample interior space, and many smaller exterior pockets. While our testers could not fit all items into the main center pocket, they were able to utilize the side pockets to complete packing. They also liked that the handles connected via Velcro and found that the extra removable shoulder strap boosted comfort and maneuverability.

The bag's material held up during durability tests, and our testers were impressed that the cloth stayed clean throughout. Our conclusion? "This is a solid choice for someone looking for a duffel on a budget," one tester surmised.

Weight: 2.76 pounds | Dimensions: 20.8 x 9.8 x 11.8 inches | Volume: 40 liters (50-liter expanded option available) | Planet and Social Impact: Not listed

Gonex Canvas Duffle Bag
TripSavvy / Nick Kova.

Best Weekender

Dagne Dover Landon Carryall Bag

Dagne Dover Large Landon Neoprene Carryall Duffle Bag

Dagne Dover

What We Like
  • Attractive and functional

  • Excellent organization

  • Easy to pack

What We Don't Like
  • Some creasing in material during durability tests

Dagne Dover is known for stylish, well-thought-out, minimalist bags, and its carryall duffel is no different. With long straps and a tapered shape that hugs close to the body (rather than, like some duffels, uncomfortably bouncing against it), this bag is a faithful companion for long weekends and shorter trips. It’s full of the thoughtful details the brand is known for, too, and we mean full: Think a padded laptop sleeve for laptops up to 16 inches, a shoe duster, key leash, water bottle pocket, and a mesh pouch to keep hand sanitizer and lip balm on hand. Made from super-durable neoprene, which is excellent for travel, the bag is water-resistant and can be hand-cleaned.

"This bag is made for travel," one tester reported. Our testers loved all the pockets and accessories. They also loved the included zip bag for shoes and how wide the top zip opened for packing accessibility. "I loved this bag, and while the price is steep, it does seem like the type of item that will last a long time and can be used for various types of travel," one tester concluded.

Weight: 2.82 pounds | Dimensions: 15 x 9.5 x 12 inches | Volume: 5 to 42 liters (XS, S, M, L, XL sizes) | Planet and Social Impact: Lining made with recycled materials, like recycled bottles

Dagne Dover Landon Carryall Bag
TripSavvy / Nick Kova.

Best Rolling

Eagle Creek No Matter What Rolling Duffel

Eagle-creek-no-matter-what-rolling-duffel

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Design
    4.5/5
  • Portability
    4/5
  • Value
    4/5
  • Durability
    5/5
What We Like
  • One of the most durable bags tested

  • Comfortable hand straps

  • Loads of storage space

What We Don't Like
  • Shoulder strap could be more comfortable

Eagle Creek's No Matter What duffel basically says it all in the name. With sizes up to 133 liters, this super durable and water-resistant bag comes with wheels, making it ideal for pretty much any trip or adventure. Our testers were impressed by the large capacity. They loved the broader straps, which felt very comfortable. "The handle straps were very nice in preventing the bag from swaying when maneuvering, and it feels comfortable in the hand," one tester noted. "For shorter people, the bag allows the wide handle straps to double as shoulder straps, which feels more comfortable than the adjustable shoulder strap."

The No Matter What passed all of our durability tests without any scratches or scuffs, and testers noted it felt tougher than most other bags tested. "We would recommend this bag, especially for the traveler looking for a duffel with wheels," our testers concluded. "It holds a lot and is also soft enough that it can squeeze tightly into an overhead bin."

Weight: 2.7 pounds | Dimensions: 33 x 15 x 16 inches | Volume: 39 to 133 liters (S, M, L, XL sizes) | Planet and Social Impact: Not listed

Eagle Creek No Matter What Rolling Duffel
TripSavvy / Nick Kova.

Best for Durability

Yeti Crossroads Duffel Bag

Yeti Crossroads 60L Duffel Bag

Yeti

Our Ratings
  • Capacity
    5/5
  • Design
    5/5
  • Portability
    3.5/5
  • Value
    4.5/5
  • Durability
    5/5
What We Like
  • Inside partitions aid organization

  • Can carry a lot of stuff

  • Rugged Yeti build

What We Don't Like
  • Pockets could be deeper

Yeti's name has become synonymous with toughness, whether you're buying mugs, tumblers, coolers, or carry-on luggage for men and women. The Crossroads duffel is no different. This large-capacity bag is constructed with Yeti's proprietary TuffSkin nylon and comes with sturdy, rigid partitions on the inside to separate compartments. "The hardshell bottom makes the entire product feel durable and worth the price," one tester noted.

The bag comes in 40- and 60-liter sizes and features side pockets, a water bottle or tumbler holder, and a padded laptop "vault." While our testers did appreciate the bag's durability, they noted that it also added some weight and a level of rigidity that prevents the bag from being packed down small. Still, if your travel involves outdoor adventures where amped durability and strength are luggage necessities, the Yeti is worth the extra spend and weight.

Weight: 4.3 pounds | Dimensions: 23 x 15 x 10 inches | Volume: 60 liters (40-liter version also available) | Planet and Social Impact: Not listed

YETI Crossroads 60L Duffel
TripSavvy / Nick Kova.

Best Eco-Friendly

Lo & Sons The Catalina Deluxe Weekender

Lo & Sons The Catalina Deluxe Weekender

Lo & Sons

Our Ratings
  • Capacity
    5/5
  • Design
    3.9/5
  • Portability
    4/5
  • Durability
    4.1/5
  • Value
    3.5/5
What We Like
  • Separate bottom compartment

  • Very planet-focused

  • Comfortable to carry

What We Don't Like
  • Zipper can be problematic

Eco-friendliness aside, the Catalina Deluxe is simply an excellent travel bag. But we also love that it's gentle on resources. The bag comes in recycled polyester or organic canvas and doesn't use harsh chemicals, pesticides, or synthetic fertilizers in its production. Bonus: The brand claims the sourcing and production of the bag encourage species diversity.

But beyond the feel-good environmentally conscious production, our testers loved how easy the bag was to carry using the shoulder straps and top handles. In particular, our testers enjoyed the bottom layer for packing shoes and sneakers. If you're looking for a highly functional bag that's also good for the planet, this is it.

Weight: 2.7 pounds | Dimensions: 18 x 10 x 15 inches | Volume: Not listed | Planet and Social Impact: Made with recycled poly and organic cotton, claims to reduce carbon emissions and keep 24+ bottles from landfills per each bag

Lo & Sons The Catalina Deluxe
TripSavvy / Nick Kova.

Best Packable

Patagonia Duffel Bag

Patagonia Black Hole Duffel Bag 55L

Patagonia

What We Like
  • Deceptively spacious

  • Comfortable ways to carry it

  • Convenient self storage

What We Don't Like
  • Nothing yet

Patagonia calls its duffel line the Black Hole series because of the seemingly endless amount of space these bags offer. Indeed, our testers noticed and enjoyed the vast amount of space this bag—which comes in 40-, 55-, 70-, and 100-liter sizes—truly has. But perhaps the best part about this bag is its ability to collapse in on itself and be stored in a smaller inner pocket.

Beyond its packability, this solid bag scored well throughout our testing. Its ultra-durable ripstop fabric is highly water resistant. Attachable backpack straps give you different ways to haul it around, while zippered side pockets and daisy chain loops help boost the storage and carrying capacity. "This is a very good quality bag with a nice design and great features," one tester concluded. "It can also fit more contents than its appearance suggests." Hence, the Black Hole.

Weight: 2.19 pounds | Dimensions: 22.5 x 13 x 8 inches | Volume: 40 liters (55, 70, and 100 liters also available) | Planet and Social Impact: Made with recycled fabric, materials, and webbing

Patagonia Black Hole 40L Duffel
TripSavvy / Nick Kova.

Most Rugged

Thule Chasm Sport Duffel Bag

Thule Chasm Sport Duffel Bag

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Capacity
    4/5
  • Design
    4/5
  • Portability
    4/5
  • Value
    4/5
  • Durability
    5/5
What We Like
  • Good organization

  • Very comfortable straps

  • Included packing cube

What We Don't Like
  • No pockets on the outside

Our testers were thoroughly impressed with Thule's Chasm Duffel Bag. From its organizational capability to the comfort of its backpack straps, its solid materials, and its waterproof zippers, testers raved about this bag. Thule uses tarpaulin fabric, which is durable and weather resistant. It also features a padded bottom for extra protection of packed items. Its 2-in-1 design makes it easy to convert from a traditional duffel to a backpack. And there are multiple grab handles around the bag for moving it quickly.

"The bag, when fully packed, is a lot to carry without the backpack straps," one tester commented. "But it's easy enough to hold and carry with the straps." Said another: "I like the size, durability, zippers, and backpack straps of this bag. It also comes with a packing cube that can be used for clothing, toiletries, or even a small pair of shoes."

Weight: 4.22 pounds | Dimensions: 30 x 13 x 10.5 inches | Volume: 40 liters (70, 90, and 130 liters also available) | Planet and Social Impact: Not listed

Thule Chasm Sport Duffel Bag
TripSavvy / Nick Kova.

Final Verdict

For the best overall duffel bag, we like Kipling's Bori Duffle Bag. It struck the best balance of functionality, carrying capability, and durability. If you're looking for a budget option, you can't go wrong with the Gonex Canvas Duffel.

Other Products We Tested

Herschel Sutton Duffel Bag (view at Amazon): This bag is reasonably priced for what it is. It isn't flashy and won't hold a tremendous amount of clothing, but our testers thought the price makes it a good gift option for a weekend warrior or college student.

Samsonite Tote-A-Ton Duffel Bag (view at Amazon): This is a solid choice for anyone wanting an inexpensive bag that holds a lot. Our testers saw this bag as better for a road trip than carrying it through an airport or train station.

Leatherology Kessler Duffle (view at Leatherology): Our testers thought this was a good option for a high-end leather bag. But for the casual traveler or someone looking for a decent weekender, it's a bit much in price. We envision this being a solid hop-off-the-plane-and-go-to-work bag.

L.L.Bean Adventure Rolling Duffle Bag (view at L.L.Bean): Our testers thought this was a solid bag. They enjoyed how it rolled and, despite a rather narrow opening, were impressed by how much it could hold. Testers definitely recommend it.

Carhartt Trade Series 2-in-1 Packable Duffel (view at Amazon): This bag is another good pick for anyone looking for a solid weekender bag. This is a good option for a small bag that's meant to look worn.

Cuyana Leather Triple Zipper Weekender (view at Cuyana): This would make a chic weekender bag, but the overall functionality and practicality were lacking. If style is what you're going for, this bag will work. If your goal is getting the most function and storage out of a bag, we suggest others on the list.

Rains Duffel Bag (view at Rains): Our testers liked this bag, and while they said they'd like to see the cross strap be more padded, they would recommend it for anyone looking for a durable waterproof weekend bag.

Baboon to the Moon Go-Bag Big (view at Baboon to the Moon): This bag will hold a lot and is durable. Our testers recommend it for anyone road-tripping or car camping. However, with backpack straps only, it's not a true duffel.

Tumi Double Expansion Travel Satchel (view at Tumi): Our testers were not impressed with this bag, especially considering its price. "This feels like a common bag," one tester concluded. "Most of the cheaper bags performed comparably, and some even out-performed this bag by a lot." Overall, the bag felt slightly flimsy and didn't hold as much as our testers saw in other bags.

Olympia 8-Pocket Rolling Duffel Bag (view at Amazon): The Olympia 8-Pocket is a good option for anyone looking for a simple bag to make it from point A to B. But for anyone looking for a tougher bag able to hold up to more rugged travel, other options on the list are better. And while our testers loved the rolling feature, they did find it annoying to carry.

Yeti Panga Duffel (view at Amazon): This bag is probably overkill for the average traveler. But for the adventure traveler or anyone looking to have a duffel that can double as a rafting, camping, or overlanding bag, Yeti's Panga is a solid choice. It's basically a Yeti soft backpack cooler in duffel form.

The North Face Base Camp Medium Duffel Bag (view at Nordstrom): This is an adventurer or gearhead duffel similar to the Yeti bag directly above. It's got excellent organization, great space, and is super durable. It might be a bit much for the casual traveler taking a few trips a year.

Paravel Foldable Bag (view at Amazon): While this bag had a few things we liked (it's foldable and lightweight), we can't advocate it for extended or airplane travel. After a few drops from the ladder, the test coffee mug shattered, making us unwilling to recommend it for checked luggage.

Modoker Garment Duffel Bag (view at Amazon): Less of a travel duffel and more of a gym or day bag, our testers did like the Garment Duffel Bag. Overall, testers reported wanting more space and pockets, but its durability and versatility rated well.

Away The Everywhere Bag (view at Away Travel): Our testers thought this bag was OK but not great. It looks chic but doesn't have the functionality or practicality our testers were looking for in a proper travel bag. "I like the style of the bag, and it would make a good complement as a carry-on, but I think travelers would need a larger size for more than an overnight," one tester concluded.

Duffel bags testing
TripSavvy / Nick Kova.

Product Selection

Products were selected based on our editors' prior knowledge and experience with luggage brands and products. We also based selections on highly reviewed and rated duffel bags on Amazon and other e-commerce sites. A finalized list of 25 duffel bags was created to meet a wide range of budgets and intended uses.

How We Tested

TripSavvy editors tested all 25 bags mentioned in this roundup in our lab in Brooklyn, New York. Attributes like organization, maneuverability, durability, and value were all considered. After weighing and measuring each bag, we packed it with five shirts, five pairs of pants, two jackets, two pairs of shoes, one toiletry bag, and one coffee mug. We then rated each bag's organizational features based on that list.

With the bags fully packed, we carried them around the testing lab to assess their maneuverability. We carried each bag with handles, shoulder straps, and cross straps when available. Lastly, with the bags still packed, we pushed each one off the top of a ladder three to five times, making sure the bag landed at a different angle each time. We checked how well the coffee mug fared and if there were any visible scuffs, scratches, or marks on the bag's exterior.

Duffel bag testing
TripSavvy / Nick Kova.

What to Look For in a Duffel Bag

Size

Duffels come in all sizes, from an overnight carry-on to bags that can hold a week’s worth of gear. Envision your likely load, and think about sizing up a bit to give you some additional space. If you want an easy-to-carry bag to bring souvenirs home from a trip, look for ones that collapse into themselves so you can stash it in your other luggage and pull it out for the trip home.

Organization

If you’re in the market for one big bag to carry everything, models with a big main pocket will suffice, though they typically come with a few additional zippered pockets for smaller items. Other designs distribute their storage into a handful of different sections, which helps you keep things more organized.

Comfort

Every duffel bag comes with a shoulder strap. Look for an adjustable, padded, and removable one for optimum comfort. Bags with wheels often include telescoping handles, which allow you to roll through airports and across pavement with ease, then lift the pack to carry it with the shoulder strap when the terrain gets rough.

Frequently Asked Questions
  • What is the best way to pack a duffel bag?

    Sometimes it can be challenging to pack a duffel bag because of the lack of interior pockets and organization. It is best to put large, bulky items like shoes and things you won’t need access to so often on the bottom. Fold your clothes and place them on top along with essentials like your phone charger. The outer pockets can be used for small items like travel documents and toiletries. If you prefer more structure, packing cubes help make the most of your bag’s space.

  • How should I carry a duffel bag?

    A heavy duffel bag can cause muscle strain, so be sure to alternate which shoulder you carry it on. Pay attention to the strap when choosing a bag to purchase, because some offer more cushioning than others. Also, try to carry the bag close to your body as this can reduce the stress put on spinal muscles.

  • Can a duffel bag be used as a personal item or carry-on?

    Depending on the size of your duffel bag and how much you pack into it, a duffel bag can be a personal item. Most airlines consider a personal item to be anything that can fit in the space under the seat in front of you. If you plan to pack more in your duffel bag, it may be considered a carry-on and can be stowed in the overhead compartment. Extra large ones will need to be checked.

Why Trust TripSavvy

Amber Nolan has been working in the travel industry for over 10 years. She has written for TripSavvy since 2016, and her work has appeared in USA Today, Jetsetter, Cruise Critic, and several other travel publications.

Nathan Allen is TripSavvy's Outdoor Gear Editor. He's used duffel bags made by Yeti, Patagonia, Cotopaxi, The North Face, and Outdoor Research. Durability and water resistance or waterproofing are the essential features he considers when picking a duffel bag.

Jamie Aranoff, an associate editor at Travel + Leisure, helped lead testing in our Brooklyn testing lab.

While researching duffel bags, we spoke with grooming and travel journalist Adam Hurly.

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