best travel duffel bags 2022

Advertisement

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.

Further reading

Wirecutter’s Favorite Bags, Totes, Backpacks and Carryalls

by Truth Headlam

Whether you’re going to school, work, the gym, the store, or on vacay, you need a bag. Here’s the Wirecutter-recommended carrying gear we love most.

The Best Gym Bag

by Kit Dillon

After stuffing more than 40 gym bags with clothes, gear, water bottles, and more, we want to carry the KNKG Plus Duffel  to our next workout.

The Best Underseat Luggage and Personal-Item Bags

There’s more to a great in-flight personal item than being small enough to stuff under a plane seat. Here’s how to choose the right one for your travel needs.

I Took 5 Trips in 6 Months. My Go-To Weekender Bag Was This Surprisingly Spacious Backpack.

by Elissa Sanci

Struggling to pack for your weekend away? The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L fits so much more than you’d expect.

The 11 Best Duffel Bags for Your Next Adventure

Making packing for your next trip a breeze with one of these top-rated options.

Gear-obsessed editors choose every product we review. We may earn commission if you buy from a link. Why Trust Us?

The Best Duffel Bags

Best Overall

Gonex canvas duffel bag.

Our Budget Pick

Amazon basics large duffel.

Herschel Novel Duffel Bag

Our Premium Pick

Patagonia black hole duffel.

Best Wheeled Duffel

Olympia 8-pocket rolling duffel bag.

Best Weekend Bag

Away the everywhere bag.

Best Lightweight

Carhartt trade series 2-in-1 duffel bag.

Best Sustainably Made

Paravel grand tour duffel.

Best All-Leather

Kenneth cole reaction leather duffel.

Best for Camping

Yeti panga 50, what to consider.

You’ll first want to decide how large a duffel you'll need, so think about whether you’ll want a weekender that can double as a gym bag or something larger to use primarily for longer trips. Anyone who’d rather skip hauling the duffel in hand or on their shoulder should opt for a wheeled duffel, which can offer substantial capacity and still work as a carry-on if it meets your airline’s requirements. Duffels are generally made of polyester or nylon, with more durable options laminated with water- and scratch-resistant coating—something you’ll want if you’re tough on your bag or plan to take it camping. Of course, weight is another important factor to consider. Beyond that, it’s all about features, like organizational pockets, padded shoulder straps, comfort grips, and bags that covert to backpacks.

How We Selected

Every duffel we cover below has an average user rating of 4.5 stars or higher. We combed through customer reviews, weighed value-added features against cost, and factored in quality of materials when compiling our list. We cover a range of styles, sizes, and options across price points, from a $20 no-frills budget duffel that offers solid quality to ultra-tough bags on the higher end that can withstand the elements.

For more great travel essentials, check out our picks for the best rolling suitcases , travel pillows , and carry-on luggage .

• Overall Dimensions (L x W x H): 20.8 x 9.8 x 11.8 inches
• Capacity: 50 liters
• Weight: 2.9 pounds
• Main Material: Canvas

Your next trip won’t be complete without this canvas duffel bag. It’s available in three sizes, a variety of colors, and is listed for just under $60—which is a total steal for a bag as versatile as this one. The large bag has two side zippers that can extend its size, as well as a large main compartment with a zipper pocket that can hold a 15-inch laptop, two front zipper pockets, and a back zipper pocket. Its padded handles make it easy to carry around, but if you need some relief, the adjustable, removable shoulder strap is another option.

• Overall Dimensions (L x W x H) : 32.5 x 17 x 11.5 inches
• Capacity : 98 liters
• Weight : 1.7 pounds
• Main Material : Nylon

If you want a basic, no-frills travel duffel that costs way less than filling your car’s gas tank, this $20 option is a solid choice. It gets high marks from more than 13,000 customers, too, with an average user rating of 4.7 stars.

The bag is said to have a whopping 98-liter capacity and is made of lightweight nylon. It can hold up to 50 pounds of your stuff and features zippered pockets inside and out, plus an adjustable, removable carrying strap. The bag comes in navy blue and red in addition to the black shown here.

• Overall Dimensions (L x W x H) : 20.5 x 11.75 x 11 inches
• Capacity : 42.5 liters
• Weight : 2.2 pounds
• Main Material : Polyester

The Herschel Novel duffel is another customer favorite, with an average 4.8-star user rating from more than 3,700 reviewers. It offers a ton of space—more than it may appear to at first glance—with a 42.5-liter capacity, and features a two-way waterproof zipper, a separate shoe compartment, plus a storage sleeve inside.

The the top handles have reinforced stitching, attached to metal D-rings for comfortable carrying, and there's also a removable shoulder strap with padded webbing underneath to cushion your shoulder. In addition to the camo shown, it's available in several colors and hues, all of which feature the brand's eye-catching striped liner.

• Overall Dimensions (L x W x H) : 26.7 x 15.7 x 11.8 inches
• Capacity : 55 liters
• Weight : 2.6 pounds
• Main Material : Ripstop polyester

Patagonia’s Black Hole Duffel is an exceptionally rugged bag that’s as roomy as its name suggests, with a 55-liter capacity. It's also fairly lightweight and stuffs into its own zippered pocket for compact storage.

The duffel is made of 900-denier post-consumer ripstop polyester, laminated to be water-repellent and scratch-resistant. It features a mesh pocket under the lid and an outer pocket that can be accessed from the inside, along with two padded removable straps to haul it as a backpack. There’s also a padded base so you don’t have to worry if it hits the ground too hard. The duffel also comes in five classic colors.

• Overall Dimensions (L x W x H) : 22 x 12 x 12 inches
• Capacity : 52.5 liters
• Weight : 5.1 pounds

This eye-catching wheeled duffel bag has an excellent lineup of features and is a steal, priced at around $50 at the time of this writing. Among its highlights are a large 52.5-liter main compartment, recessed inline skate wheels, and a long telescoping handle, plus a convenient U-shaped top, an impressive eight pockets, and allegedly snag-free zippers that won’t come off their track.

While it may appear slightly bulky, don’t be fooled into thinking it’s a heavyweight: It comes in at a reasonable 5.1 pounds. The duffel is also available in a dozen colors and four sizes.

• Overall Dimensions (L x W x H) : 16.3 x 10.2 x 7.3 inches
• Capacity : 20 liters
• Weight : 2.75 pounds (with shoulder strap)
• Main Material : Nylon, leather

Away’s attractive Everywhere duffel has all the thoughtful extras you’d expect from a bag made by the brand. It’s made of nylon with leather details on the handles and straps and it features two large outer pockets.

Inside, it’s just as well-organized, with a 15-inch laptop sleeve and a host of zippered and slip pockets to hold everything from a paperback to your mobile phone. The duffel also comes with a removable shoulder strap and is available in a range of attractive neutral colors.

• Overall Dimensions (L x W x H) : 21.5 x 11 x 11 inches
• Capacity : 42.6 liters
• Weight : 1.56 pounds

This rugged Carhartt duffel, made of water-resistant polyester, is surprisingly lightweight at about a pound and a half and comes with a nifty drawstring pouch that you use for everything from laundry to toiletries.

The bag features a zippered outer pocket and a generously-sized main compartment, with YKK zippers and an adjustable, removable shoulder strap that has a wide shoulder pad. The handles are also comfortable to carry, thanks to their stitched grips. If the basic black model shown here isn't your style, the bag also comes in both gray and brown.

• Overall Dimensions (L x W x H) : 20 x 10 x 11 inches
• Capacity : 36 liters
• Weight : 3.7 pounds
• Main Material : Canvas

Founded in 2016, Pavavel is a sustainable and socially responsible travel brand that turns out on-trend luggage and accessories using recycled materials like water bottles. The lightweight Grand Tour’s canvas is made by mixing recycled bottles with natural cotton fiber and a silicone coating is added for durability and stain-resistance.

The bag features either black or tan leather trim, protective feet on the bottom, and two exterior pockets, plus another two pockets inside the spacious main compartment. It also comes with an adjustable and removable shoulder strap.

• Overall Dimensions (L x W x H) : 20 x 12 x 10 inches
• Interior Dimensions : 18 x 9.5 x 11.5 inches
• Weight : 4.35 pounds
• Main Material : Leather

This all-leather bag is crafted from full-grain Colombian cowhide. It features an outer side pocket for shoes that’s separate from the lined main compartment, which has a U-shaped zippered top. There’s a buttoned leather comfort grip on the handles, metal feet to protect the bottom, and inside, you’ll find two open pockets for things like chargers and backup batteries.

The duffel comes with a removable, adjustable shoulder strap that can extend up to 5 feet in length, which is handy if you want to carry the bag as a crossbody. In addition to the black shown here, it's available in cognac and dark brown.

• Dimensions (L x W x H) : 23.5 x 14 x 10 inches
• Capacity : 50 liters
• Weight : 5.2 pounds

If you've got a camping trip on the horizon and want a duffel as tough as they come, look no further than the YETI Panga.

Your clothes won’t get wet, even if it pours while you’re hiking to camp or if the duffel accidentally slips into the lake, as the bag is waterproof and airtight, made of high-density nylon laminated with thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). Two adjustable shoulder straps give you the option to carry it as a backpack—and inside there’s a sleeve and mesh pocket to organize small items you don’t want falling to the bottom of the bag.

The Panga comes in 75- and 100-liter sizes in addition to the 50-liter model shown here.

Thule Chasm Sport Duffel Bag

• Overall Dimensions (L x W x H) : 29 x 13 x 17 inches
• Capacity: 90 liters
• Weight: 4.4 pounds
• Main Material: Tarpaulin fabric

If you’re packing for a camping trip or another type of outdoor adventure, then this durable bag is your best option. It’s made of a rugged, weather-resistant material and is available in four sizes; this one can fit 90 liters in its oversized main opening and internal mesh pockets. The bag has handles for carrying it around, but if you want to transport it with greater ease, it can also be turned into a backpack.

Kylee McGuigan is an associate commerce editor for Hearst Magazines’s Enthusiast Group. She works with content for brands such as Popular Mechanics, Best Products, Bicycling, and Runner’s World. Kylee graduated from Penn State in May 2020 with a degree in journalism and a minor in French. During her undergraduate career, she spent a majority of her time writing for, and eventually editing, VALLEY Magazine: Penn State’s only student-run fashion and lifestyle magazine. She has produced content ranging from beauty and health, to lifestyle and self-improvement. After spending four years in the happiest of valleys (State College, PA), she moved back home to South Jersey—otherwise known as the famous “outside of Philly” area. Kylee can be found working out of her local Starbucks with her best friend, an iced chai in hand, and endless hours of music playlists to get her through the day. When she’s not working, she is more than likely on her daily walk in her neighborhood, at Orangetheory, binging Sex and the City or Gossip Girl, checking out local coffee shops, or trying new bars and restaurants in the city with friends and family. 

Rachel Klein is a Senior Commerce Editor for Popular Mechanics , where she writes about everything from garden hose reels and patio furniture to mesh wifi systems and robot vacuums. She started her career as a daily newspaper reporter and was a travel editor for more than a decade before she started testing and reviewing luggage, noise-cancelling headphones, and other travel-related products. Fast-forward another five years and her area of expertise includes home decor, appliances, tech, and outdoor adventure gear. In her spare time, you'll find her planning her next trip, reading historical fiction, and seeing as much art as she can squeeze into a weekend. 

.css-cuqpxl:before{padding-right:0.3125rem;content:'//';display:inline;} Adventure .css-xtujxj:before{padding-left:0.3125rem;content:'//';display:inline;}

Prime Day Yeti Deals 2024

The Best Headlamps for Running, Camping, and More

The Best Mini Coolers We Tried and Love

The 7 Best Insulated Water Bottles

Ship from Famous Explorer's Final Journey Found

The Best Portable Fire Pits for a Bonfire Anywhere

The Best Hotels Near Zion National Park

The 7 Best Walkie Talkies

The Ultimate Camping Gear Guide

22 Great Grill Accessories for Better Barbecues

The Best Solar Chargers to Keep You Plugged In

9 Best Duffel Bags for Your Next Vacation, According to Testing

These versatile bags are ideal for road trips and air travel alike.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

The Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab tests all types of travel bags, including travel backpacks , underseat luggage and suitcases . We test their durability by assessing abrasion resistance, drop testing, water resistance and more. Lab analysts also pack each bag to see how much it can hold and rate the ease of packing. We also consider the weight and strap padding to find the most comfortable bags. Whether you prefer a small weekender style or a rolling duffel, GH experts tested a variety of styles in the Lab and reviewed hundreds more online to make these selections. These duffel bag picks include top-tested styles as well as picks from brands that have previously impressed us in Lab testing.

Our top picks:

Best Overall Duffel Bag

Patagonia black hole duffel bag 55l.

Best Value Duffel Bag

Herschel novel duffel bag.

Best Duffel Bag for Road Trips

Vera bradley cotton large travel duffel bag.

After shopping our top duffel bag picks for your trip, keep reading to learn more about our testing protocols and shopping tips from fiber science experts.

Patagonia has been a top-performing brand in the Textiles Lab for many years with its durable bags and winter coats . The Black Hole Duffel is a popular bag with its sturdy top straps, side handles, a longer shoulder strap and the option to wear it as a backpack for easy toting. With reinforced exposed daisy chains on the side, you can hook on all types of gear. GH analysts especially love that t his whole duffel can actually compress into a small bag , taking up very little space when not in use. Note that the Black Hole duffel is water-resistant, but not entirely waterproof. This pick also comes in a wheeled version , too. Patagonia also has a renowned commitment to sustainability , offering a trade-in program and a shopping interface for used items.

Herschel bags and backpacks have impressed GH analysts by featuring durable materials with simple designs, making them versatile enough to take to the gym or use as a weekender. This duffel bag aced Lab testing. The bottom kept its shape as we packed it making it easy to load and unload, and it showed no signs of wear after abrasion testing. The separate shoe compartment held two pairs of shoes in testing or it could be used to keep dirty clothes separate. GH analysts found the synthetic leather handles comfortable to grip and appreciated the padding on the shoulder strap. However, the plastic hooks for the shoulder straps were not so sturdy. One tester said a hook broke after extensive use.

Vera Bradley duffels come in the brand's classic paisley designs as well as other bright colors and bold patterns. In our tests, we appreciated just how spacious this duffel is. It was able to hold every item in our packing test plus more. Testers liked the flexible fabric that made it easy to shove in the trunk of a car but did note that items shifted around inside the duffel. To keep things where you want them, there are multiple zippered pockets that keep items easily accessible . Reviewers rave that they've had these bags for years and they've stayed in pristine condition long-term. The side handles are long enough that you can also wear them over the shoulder. This pick is made with 100% cotton fabric, and while it's not as durable and nylon or polyester, it didn't show any changes in appearance during our abrasion testing. We do wish that it had a trolley strap so it could easily sit on top of a suitcase.

Lo & Sons The Catalina Deluxe

This classic duffel from Lo & Sons is perfect for a weekend trip as it has a separate shoe compartment and a spacious interior to hold everything you'll need. This bag is available in both canvas and 600D recycled polyester, depending on which style you prefer. With two sizes available, the site has excellent reference images to show what the bags look like when people of different heights and shapes wear them . For a more luxurious option, one GH analyst especially loves the brand's O.G. 2 Bag for being extremely easy to clean by just using a wet wipe.

Away F.A.R Duffle 55L

Away recently launched new adventure travel products with its F.A.R. line. GH analysts especially liked the F.A.R Convertible Backpack and this duffel. Both styles have the option to carry it like a duffel or wear it as a backpack with comfortable padded straps . The large interior held everything in our packing tests and built-in compression straps kept items in place. There are two small zippered pockets — one on the outside and the other inside. We like that it has both top handles and smaller side handles, making it easier to put in a car or the overhead bin. (The smaller 40L version is carry-on compliant!) There are also exterior daisy chains to easily attach extra gear and a side trolley strap to help it sit on top of a suitcase. Analysts did note that the zippers are quite noisy when opening and closing.

Eagle Creek Migrate Duffel Bag

Eagle Creek continues to impress us by offering durable travel items that last year after year, including the brand's signature packing cubes . One GH analyst especially loves Eagle Creek duffels for how well the material holds up even after being tossed around. Most duffels are prone to their contents shifting, but the outside compression straps on the Migrate help keep all your items perfectly in place . It features a more sustainable bottom material coating that was developed by harvesting windshield plastics from landfills, though we found it felt a bit waxy and did show some marks. It is a very structured bag and keeps its shape for easy packing. The larger tabs on the zippers are convenient for comfortable opening/closing. There are large top handles as well as smaller handles on all sides, so it's easy to maneuver.

L.L.Bean Large Adventure Rolling Duffle Bag

If you prefer to roll your bag but still want the option to pick it up and carry it over your shoulder, a rolling duffel is perfect. This pick from L.L.Bean is available in eight colors with options for monograms, making this a great gift too. It has top handles and smaller side handles for easy lifting. The shoulder strap can be attached when you want to carry it but should be removed when rolling. GH analysts like the less structured fabric that's ideal for overpackers to fit as much as possible . The straps attach together to tighten it, so items don't shift around inside. With all the ways to carry it and the massive interior, this is a great pick for family travel.

Pottery Barn Kids Mackenzie Rainbow Heart Duffel

This Pottery Barn Kids duffel makes a great gift with monogram options and fun designs , including this rainbow design and a dinosaur print. Not only do they feature fun, playful patterns, but these duffels also hold up to heavy use. GH analysts have tested all types of luggage from PBK and continue to be impressed by the durable materials. Lexie Sachs , Executive Director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab, uses these duffels with her kids and especially loves how easy they are to pack. The brand offers a ton of pieces to complete the set including packing cubes , backpacks , lunch boxes , toiletry bags , rolling suitcases and more.

PUMA Evercat Candidate Duffel

A gym bag has to hold everything you need without being too bulky — this PUMA bag is up to the challenge. Its amazing organizational design features zippered pockets and a separate shoe compartment to keep smelly sneakers and dirty gym clothes separate. Available in 18 styles, it's made with polyester and is machine washable . While we haven't yet tested this style in Lab, we have tested a variety of products from PUMA and found they are a great value for the affordable price. This bag has over 30,000 rave Amazon reviews and costs less than $30!

How we test duffel bags

The Good Housekeeping Institute has been testing travel products (including duffel bags) for decades. GH analysts tested duffels using standardized test methods and state-of-the-art lab equipment. We also sent duffel bags to testers to use when traveling. Here is how we evaluate duffels:

✔️ Size and weight: Each duffel bag is weighed when empty since online specs aren't always accurate or listed. GH analysts assess the bag's size and construction to determine what it's best suited for. If it's designed to be a personal item or a carry-on, we measure it to ensure it complies with the dimension restrictions of common airlines.

✔️ Abrasion resistance: Swatches of fabric are cut from the luggage and loaded into our abrasion machine, which rubs the fabric over an abrasive material 15,000 times before being graded for signs of wear. A GH analyst is seen here setting up abrasion resistance testing.

✔️ Packing capabilities: Our analysts pack each piece of luggage using a standard load with real items like clothing, shoes, toiletries and more. In this process, we rate the ease of opening and closing the zippers, ease of accessing the compartments and how much of our load actually fits inside.

✔️ Comfort: When the bag is fully packed, we carry it to rate the comfort of the handles and straps. GH analysts also test each bag's features like convertible backpack straps as seen here to rate the ease of use and comfort.

✔️ Consumer testing: Testers use each duffel on vacations and trips to give feedback on the comfort of the straps and handles, ease of packing and more. Testers have brought these duffels on road trips, cruises, international flights and more!

What to look for when shopping for the best duffel bag

✔️ Material: Most duffels are made with either nylon or polyester. Nylon is a very popular synthetic fiber for softside luggage as it's durable and can withstand abrasion. Polyester is a more affordable synthetic option that's lighter in weight than nylon but is generally slightly less durable.

✔️ Denier: Oftentimes, the denier of the fabric may be listed, which is a unit of measurement used to determine the fiber thickness of individual threads or filaments used in the fabric. The higher the denier, the stronger the fabric tends to be.

✔️ Wheels: If you struggle carrying heavy loads, opt for a duffel with wheels. Because of the bulky wheels, rolled duffels cannot be as easily stored as ones without wheels.

✔️ Capacity: When shopping for a duffel, look for the capacity of the bag, which is usually listed in liters. The larger the capacity, the bigger the bag. Compare the dimensions to the airline restrictions for personal items and carry-ons to ensure a smooth boarding experience. Around 30 L is great for weekend trips while 50-70 L is better suited for a week-long trip.

✔️ Carrying options: Some duffels feature convertible options, so you can carry it with a crossbody strap or wear it as a backpack. Many testers especially appreciated the backpack carrying option!

✔️ Pockets and organization: Most duffels feature one main top zipper with a large internal compartment for packing. Testers especially liked when duffels had a separate zippered compartment for shoes and an easily accessible front pocket for must-have travel items.

Should I use a duffel as a carry-on or a personal item when flying?

Duffels can make a great personal item or carry-on when flying. However, it's important to note the duffel's dimensions to ensure that it complies with the airline's listed size restrictions. If you plan on using a duffel as a personal item, we recommend ensuring that it has a back luggage strap and pairing it with a rolling suitcase for easy toting in the airport. Because duffels feature fabric on all sides, they can be squished more easily in overhead bins and underneath the seat in front of you — this also makes duffels super popular for road trips too!

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

Emma Seymour is a senior textiles product analyst in the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab. She’s been at Good Housekeeping for over three years, testing all types of travel products including suitcases, packing cubes and backpacks. She tested a variety of duffels for this story in Lab. She has a degree in Fiber Science and Apparel Design from Cornell University.

Emma Seymour (she/her) is a senior product analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she has led testing for luggage, pillows, towels, tampons and more since 2018. She graduated from Cornell University with a bachelor of science in fiber science and apparel design and a minor in gerontology, completing research in the Body Scanner Lab on optimizing activewear for athletic performance. 

@media(max-width: 64rem){.css-o9j0dn:before{margin-bottom:0.5rem;margin-right:0.625rem;color:#ffffff;width:1.25rem;bottom:-0.2rem;height:1.25rem;content:'_';display:inline-block;position:relative;line-height:1;background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}} Product Reviews

Best Samsonite Luggage

The 5 Best Bottle Warmers

The Best Pilates Reformer Machines

The 10 Best Backpacks

The 14 Best Hair Glosses to Boost Color and Shine

The Best Mattresses for Side Sleepers

The Best Memory Foam Pillows

The Best Soft Mattresses

The Ultimate Guide to Buying a Mattress

The Best Robot Mops

12 Best Body Oils

Best Duffel Bags of 2024

From proven outdoor models with backpack straps to rolling designs for travel, below are the year's top duffels.

Switchback Travel

We use affiliate links and may receive a small commission on purchases. Read more about us . 

Whether you’re traveling by air, driving up to a cabin for the weekend, or venturing across the world on an expedition, you’ll likely be using a duffel bag to get your gear from one place to the next. Duffels are popular among all kinds of travelers for good reason: They're easy to load and carry, and many are built to take a beating. Below we break down the best duffels of 2024, including top travel, outdoor, and waterproof bags of both the standard and rolling varieties. For more background information, see our duffel bag comparison table and buying advice below the picks. We've also put together a list of the best travel backpacks , which offer easier portability and more elaborate organization in smaller—and often carry-on-friendly—capacities.

Editor's note:  We updated this guide on June 3, 2024, to add the versatile Nemo Double Haul Convertible Duffel and Tote. We also included information about our testing practices and swept the guide to ensure all products, colorways, and specs are current at the time of publishing.  

Our Team's Duffel Bag Picks

• Best Overall Duffel Bag: Patagonia Black Hole 55
• Best Budget Duffel Bag: REI Co-op Roadtripper 100L
• Best Carry-On Duffel Bag: The North Face Base Camp Voyager Roller 21”
• Best Weekender Duffel Bag: Thule Aion Duffel Bag
• Best High-Capacity Wheeled Duffel: Osprey Sojourn Shuttle 100L
• Best Ultralight/Packable Duffel Bag: Osprey Ultralight Stuff Duffel
• Best Waterproof Duffel Bag: Yeti Panga 75

Best Overall Duffel Bag

1. patagonia black hole 55 ($169).

Patagonia’s Black Hole line helped make duffels cool, and we think the 55-liter version is the best all-around bag on the market. In 2024, all Black Holes are made with 100%-recycled materials, along with the premium build quality and trendy colorways that Patagonia is known for. The duffel is beautifully constructed from end to end, and you get multiple color options from simple black to phosphorus green. It’s remarkably tough, too: The fabric is burly 900-denier ripstop nylon with a beefy TPU finish for water resistance (note: In the latest version, this laminate is now fully recycled and has a matte look). This duffel is not fully waterproof like the Yeti Panga below, but it should keep your gear dry in light to moderate moisture just fine.

We've been using the same Black Hole for almost 10 years, and it's still going strong despite being packed with sharp climbing gear and shlepped across the world (by plane, train, horse, and snowmobile). In terms of features and comfort, you get several ways to grab and carry the duffel: The removable backpack straps are more comfortable and functional than most, and the bag comes with reinforced haul handles and webbing loops for carrying by hand. Keep in mind that this duffel does not have a particularly rigid structure (only the base is lightly padded), so it doesn’t offer a ton of protection for fragile items, and you can get more space for less cash with alternatives like the Gregory Supply 90 or Eagle Creek Migrate 60 below. But there’s a reason the Black Hole is so ubiquitous—it’s well built, looks good, and holds up remarkably well over time. Given its popularity, the collection also includes larger versions for expedition use, a carry-on-friendly Black Hole 40 , travel packs under the MLC name, packing cubes, and more. See the Patagonia Black Hole 55

Best Budget Duffel Bag

2. rei co-op roadtripper 100l ($70).

If you’re in the market for basic storage and protection for your gear, the REI Co-op Roadtripper is one of the best values on this list. At just $70, this bag is made from burly recycled polyester and sports a large detachable shoulder strap and handles (no backpack-style straps here, which is notable for those who plan on carrying their bag long distances). We also love the minimal weight, which at just 1 pound 6 ounces is one of the lightest duffels here.

Who is the REI Roadtripper Duffel best for? It makes a great gear hauler for those who need space and protection without the bells and whistles. We’ve used the 100-liter version on a number of big trips including all the way down to Patagonia (four flights) and came away impressed. The bag is well built, functional, and has withstood quite bit of use and abuse. At the same time, it’s not waterproof (or even highly water-resistant) and definitely not a fully featured bag for travel. If you want more protection and conveniences like internal storage, side compartments, and backpack straps, we’d recommend spending up for the Patagonia Black Hole above. See the REI Co-op Roadtripper 100L

Best Carry-On Duffel Bag

3. the north face base camp voyager roller 21” ($240).

For frequent travelers, there is a lot to be said for the convenience of a wheeled duffel, especially one that can be used as a carry-on. At 40 liters and with dimensions that meet size restrictions for most airlines, the TNF Base Camp Voyager Roller is a great option for air travelers who don’t pack the kitchen sink. The wheels are large yet smooth and functional over a variety of surfaces, and equally at home on the dirt roads of a far-flung village as in the airport. What’s more, the rigid internal frame and strong plastic handles (one telescoping) are durable enough to take a beating, whether you’re lifting the duffel, rolling it over cobblestones, or tossing it into the back of a truck. And with a PFC-free DWR finish, the Base Camp Voyager will keep your gear dry in the process.

What the Base Camp Voyager Roller is not, however, is a fully featured piece of luggage for business travelers. It lacks the sleek look and organizational compartments of more typical roller bags, with only one internal mesh pocket, a laptop sleeve, and a small external zip pocket. And at $240, you’ll pay a premium for the durable construction and wheeled design. For $40 less, the Osprey Daylite Carry-On 40 offers better organization, but its sophisticated appearance might not appeal to those looking for a true duffel design. In the end, the Base Camp Voyager Roller is a great combination of durability, functionality, and outdoor style. For those who want more space, TNF also makes a 29-inch version that can accommodate more than 90 liters' worth of gear (but well exceeds carry-on restrictions). Note: Both the 21- and 29-inch rolling duffels are no longer listed on TNF's website, but there is still solid availability at the time of publishing.  See The North Face Base Camp Voyager Roller 21"

Best Weekender Duffel Bag

4. thule aion duffel bag ($190).

Many of the duffels here are designed for expedition use or toting a week’s worth of gear (or more), but the reality is that most travels take place over the weekend. A good weekender bag can hold around 35 liters’ worth of clothing and personal supplies, meets carry-on requirements, and features a range of internal and external pockets to help you stay organized. Within this category, the Thule Aion is our top pick and gets high marks for style, too, with a classy aesthetic that looks the part in both urban and outdoor environments. The 35-liter bag is also decently durable, with a waxed 600-denier polyester canvas outer that’s abrasion-resistant and can fend off light moisture.

In addition to its good looks and build quality, the Thule Aion is high on organization with two separate internal compartments (great for separating clean and dirty clothes), a laptop sleeve and internal zippered pocket, and external stretch and zippered stashes beside the front zip. Portability is also good with two carry handles, a padded (and removable) shoulder strap, and a pass-through sleeve for securing to a roller bag. Added up, the Aion offers similar functionality as a travel backpack but in duffel bag form, which is great for those looking for a cleaner, more streamlined look. At $190, it’s more expensive than most bags here of similar size, but the added features and sleek appearance do help justify the added cost.  See the Thule Aion Duffel Bag

Best High-Capacity Wheeled Duffel

5. osprey sojourn shuttle 100l ($395).

For travelers torn between a standard duffel and traditional wheeled luggage, the recently updated Osprey Sojourn Shuttle (previously just the “Shuttle”) may be exactly what you’re looking for. This high-end duffel is extremely roomy, durable, and comes with tons of organization. Time and time again, we’ve loaded an entire vacation’s worth of clothing and gear into the Osprey with ease. Unlike cheaper wheeled duffels that have a tendency to fall over when full and upright, it maintains its stability nicely, and the larger-than-average wheels get the job done on uneven surfaces like cobblestones and gravel roads. And all of the other features are there, from external compression straps to tighten down your load to a separate lower compartment for wet gear.

The major shortcomings of the Osprey Sojourn Shuttle are simply trade-offs inherent to the roller design. First, you won’t be throwing this duffel over your shoulder and strolling through the airport or walking through a major city. It’s heavy at over 8 pounds empty and must be transported almost exclusively on wheels. In addition, when packed to the brim, you may find yourself pushing the standard 50-pound checked baggage limit—particularly if you go with the 130-liter version (we’ve cut it close with the 100L on occasion). Finally, at $395, the Sojourn is pricey—even within Osprey’s lineup, you can save with the simplified Daylite Wheeled Duffel 85 ($240) or more durable Transporter Wheeled Duffel 90 ($340). But for a premium roller duffel from a brand known for its high-quality, durable offerings, look no further than the Sojourn Shuttle. See the Osprey Sojourn Shuttle 100L

Best Ultralight/Packable Duffel Bag

6. osprey ultralight stuff duffel ($45).

Not everyone needs their duffel bag to pack down small, but in certain situations, it can be a really nice feature to have. Perhaps you’re low on storage space, headed out on an expedition where every inch and ounce count, or simply need to bring along an extra duffel for the souvenirs you plan to pick up during your travels. Regardless of the reason, it’s hard to beat the utility of an ultra-packable design, and Osprey’s 30-liter Ultralight Stuff Duffel is one of our favorite options. Clocking in at just 7.1 ounces and packing down smaller than a 1-liter water bottle in its integrated pocket, the aptly named Ultralight Stuff is far and away the most streamlined option here. For just $45, it’s almost a no-brainer whether you’re using it as your primary bag or a backup.

We love the versatility of the Osprey for space- and weight-conscious situations, but keep in mind that this isn’t your standard travel duffel. With a thin nylon construction and small 30-liter capacity, it won’t hold up to long-term abuse, keep your gear dry, or shuttle much more than a well-organized overnight kit. But it’s fully functional for the right application with a padded shoulder strap, accessory pocket, and smooth-running zippers.  See the Osprey Ultralight Stuff Duffel

Best Waterproof Duffel Bag

7. yeti panga 75 ($350).

Osprey is an industry leader in backpacking packs , so it should come as no surprise that their Transporter toes the line between backpack and duffel better than most. With padded straps and an adjustable sternum strap designed with carrying comfort in mind, the Transporter is a great option for travelers who need to cover distance with their duffel. In terms of features, a zippered pocket at one end is great for storing important items like travel documents and charging cables, and you get a wide U-shaped opening along with an interior mesh pocket, deployable rain flap, and straps to keep items in place as you walk. Added up, the Transporter is one of our favorite duffels for trips that start at the airport and take you to seriously adventurous locales.

Coming in at $180 for the 65-liter version, the Osprey Transporter is a similar bang for your buck as the Patagonia Black Hole above and a touch more expensive than The North Face's Base Camp below. Durability-wise, its 900-denier recycled polyester is on par with that of the Black Hole (the TNF is a bit more robust at 1,000D), and our duffel shows no real signs of wear after being thrown around on a month-long trip to Nepal. The lack of an over-the-shoulder strap is a bit of an inconvenience, but you do get a functional carry handle along with Osprey’s best-in-class backpack carry. All told, if you’re looking for the carrying comfort of a premium pack alongside the convenience of a duffel, the Transporter should be near the top of your list. See the Osprey Transporter 65

9. Mountain Hardwear Expedition Duffel 100 ($280)

For climbers embarking on long journeys into the greater ranges, it doesn’t get much better than the Mountain Hardwear Expedition. This duffel is purpose built for hard work, with water-resistant 840-denier ballistic nylon in the body and a burly 1,000-denier base lined with foam for both structure and protection. A wraparound daisy chain allows you to lash it down in endless configurations, whether you’re headed to basecamp with the help of a mule, truck, or boat. And the Expedition’s most unique element is its massive D-zip opening, which extends via wings on each end and even folds all the way open for great basecamp organization (complete with internal tote bag-style handles). 

For such a utilitarian duffel, the Expedition packs in a surprising number of organizational features. You get a handy internal compression system that can secure all or some of your load, along with four small zip pockets (two internal, two external). And because we’re all familiar with wrestling the zipper closed on an over-full duffel, many will appreciate the integrated top compression strap that cinches the sides together and reduces zipper strain. Finally, like most designs here, the Expedition includes backpack straps, which also serve as a carry handle by way of integrated Velcro patches. The technical style and steeper price tag will turn away most casual users, but for demanding expeditions, the Expedition is a great tool for the job. See the Mountain Hardwear Expedition Duffel 100

10.  Nemo Double Haul 55L Convertible Duffel and Tote ($180)

Duffel bags are a fun bunch, but we don’t see a ton of innovation year over year. Nemo’s new Double Haul breaks that mold with a well-executed two-in-one design that offers a lot of versatility. To swap from duffel to tote mode, simply release the side buckles to maximize the interior (Nemo claims it increases capacity by around 35%) and untuck the tote handles from inside. Reverting to a duffel is just a matter of reversing the process, with the option to wear it as a backpack or carry it by hand via the dual grab handles at the top. As we’ve come to expect from Nemo, the rest of the design exudes quality, from the highly water-resistant exterior to the stiffened trusses inside the bag to keep it upright while you’re packing. Nemo even includes a small storage pouch/packing cube that clips inside.

What’s not to like with Nemo’s innovative Double Haul? First, while the trusses add a nice amount of structure along the sides (in tote mode), the base is lacking in structure. We wish Nemo had reinforced this area to inspire a little more confidence when setting the Double Haul down on rough surfaces (its 420D fabrics are on the thinner end), although we haven’t experienced any issues to date. Another complaint is that the grab handles at the top of the bag are noticeably stiff, which can make it unwieldy to carry by hand. Finally, we wish the backpack straps stowed out of the way when not in use (this feature can also be helpful when checking a bag at the airport). To be sure, we commend Nemo for thinking outside the box and consider the Double Haul a very fun and functional addition to the market, but the fact that it’s a bit more competitive as a tote than a duffel bag pushes it slightly down in our rankings. See the Nemo Double Haul 55L

11. Gregory Supply 90 ($120)

We really like what Gregory has done with their Supply Duffel. Updated last year, this bag simply screams “function,” with a durable 600-denier polyester body and base, burly #10 YKK zipper and oversized T-Grip pull, and a price tag that beats out most duffels here. In fact, at just $120 for the 90-liter version, the Supply is still considerably cheaper than many 60-liter models on our list. For travel and outdoor applications like camping, ski trips, and even expeditions, this is a durable and high-capacity duffel that checks most of the boxes. 

But with its function-first attitude, the Gregory Supply isn’t for everyone. While you do get tuckaway backpack straps and one external pocket, it lacks the bells and whistles we see in much of the competition, including a U-shaped top zip and dirty-laundry compartment. We’ve come to value the large top access of a model like the Black Hole when we’re living out of a duffel, but the simple entry of the Gregory is sufficient for most uses. In the end, as long as you’re aware of the trade-offs, the Supply is a really nice option to have that will save you some money without making many compromises in terms of durability. See the Gregory Supply 90

12. The North Face Base Camp Medium ($149)

First released in 1986, the Base Camp is a classic offering from The North Face and a direct competitor to our top-ranked Patagonia Black Hole above. It’s similarly tough and water-resistant, offers easy access to the inside, and can be carried as a backpack, which we love. Both bags offer comparable organization pockets, but the Base Camp’s medium and large models add an exterior compartment on one end that allows you to separate dirty clothes and shoes. The Base Camp comes in more colors and designs than we can count, and is available in capacities ranging from 31 liters (XS) to a whopping 150 liters (XXL). For everything from a carry-on to an expedition workhorse, this is one of the most popular duffels on the market year after year.

Although we do like the Base Camp line and have used them for years, we prefer the Black Hole for a few reasons. First, the outer fabric on The North Face shows scuff marks more easily than its Patagonia counterpart. Second, at 3 pounds 8 ounces, the TNF is nearly a pound heavier. Finally, we found the backpack straps on the Base Camp to be slightly more difficult to detach than those on the Black Hole, making your airport check-in a bit more frantic. But for a reliable all-around duffel and more versatility in terms of size and colors, the Base Camp is a solid choice. And TNF also offers the Base Camp Voyager collection , which features a more modern design, lighter materials, and improved organization—albeit at a slightly steeper price point and with fewer capacities to choose from (32, 42, or 62L). See the North Face Base Camp Medium

13. Black Diamond Stonehauler 60L ($190)

Relatively new to the scene is Black Diamond’s Stonehauler, which offers a climber’s take on the classic outdoor duffel. Building off popular designs like the Patagonia Black Hole and TNF Basecamp, Black Diamond placed 5-millimeter closed cell foam into the Stonehauler’s walls to guard against sharp gear like ice tools and climbing cams (a nice touch, as our cams have dug a hole in the base of our Black Hole). They also added on a 2-kilonewton haul loop for extra assurance when securing your gear to a mule or truck (heck, you could even haul the duffel up El Cap). Tack on a rugged 600- by 1,500-denier body fabric and reinforced ends, and the Stonehauler is impressively durable and ready for all the rigors of your next expedition.

We’re impressed with Black Diamond’s design and think the Stonehauler makes a great fit for climbing, but the duffel risks being overkill for the majority of people and uses. Most travelers don’t need a haul loop or padded side walls, especially when the added tech results in a higher price (the 60L Stonehauler is $41 more than the TNF Base Camp 71L, for example). Further, we’re a bit miffed by the design, which places more durable fabric on the ends of the bag but not on the base. But BD does add some nice travel features with three zippered pockets, an internal laundry bag and compression straps, and removable shoulder straps. And you can upgrade to their Pro models (30 and 45L), which feature a padded laptop sleeve. See the Black Diamond Stonehauler 60L

14. Eagle Creek Migrate 60L ($129)

The Eagle Creek Migrate 60L is a nice option for travelers looking for a durable hauler with an assortment of carry options. It’s one of the more affordable duffels on the market at just $129 for the 60-liter version, and offers no shortage of bells and whistles with both tote and haul handles, glove-friendly zipper pulls, lockable main zips, an external zip pocket, and the option for both over-the-shoulder and backpack carry. What’s more, the main fabric is fairly robust (900D) and dirt-resistant, while the seamless bathtub base (1,680D) will keep your gear dry even on wet ground. It all adds up to one of the best values out there and a great duffel from a respected travel luggage company.

All that said, the Migrate falls short of the more premium options above in one main way: access. Eagle Creek opted for a straight zip instead of the U-shaped lid of many duffels here (like the Black Hole above), meaning the Migrate is a lot harder to live out of and keep organized. But on the bright side, the simplified build does result in a lower price tag, and you get 5 extra liters of space if you leave the side buckles undone. And we’ve gotta give props to Eagle Creek for their efforts toward sustainability: The Migrate is made with bluesign-approved materials and recycled plastics. In addition to the standard version here, it also comes as a wheeled duffel in 110- and 130-liter capacities. See the Eagle Creek Migrate 60L

15. Gregory Alpaca 60 ($160)

Updated fairly recently, the Gregory Alpaca is a durable and water-resistant duffel that checks all the boxes for rigorous outdoor use. Like the Black Hole above, it has a large U-shaped opening, boasts padded and removable backpack straps, and is made with a durable 900-denier ripstop polyester with a TPU coating for water resistance. Throw in storm flaps over the top zipper, an expandable end pocket for dirty laundry, internal mesh pockets, and an included packing cube that pulls double duty as a stuff sack, and the Alpaca strikes us as another thoughtfully built and well-equipped outdoor/travel duffel.

The Alpaca is a direct competitor to the Black Hole, and there’s certainly a lot to like about the design. The 60-liter version is about $10 cheaper than Patagonia’s 55-liter duffel, the packing cube is a nice addition (similar designs will run you $20 to $30), and the oversized end pocket has a lot of utility compared to the Black Hole’s smaller side pocket. But Gregory can’t quite match the brand cachet of Patagonia, and you only get a choice between three colors (compared to the Black Hole’s nine). In the end, both are high-quality outdoor duffels from trusted brands—built to withstand air travel, far-flung expeditions, and everything in between. See the Gregory Alpaca 60

16. Cotopaxi Allpa 70L ($200)

Cotopaxi has carved out a corner of the market with their spunky outdoor and travel gear, epitomized by fun colorblocking and sustainably sourced materials. The Allpa Duo 70L here is their largest and most functional duffel, great for international flights and road trips alike. Similar to the Black Hole, the Allpa features durable materials and large U-shaped access to the main compartment. But it tacks on a few more features, including a separate laundry compartment with mesh pocket (we’ve found this incredibly useful) and three zippered accessory pockets on the exterior (the Black Hole has just one). We also appreciate the Cotopaxi’s convenient carry-handle stash pockets, which get them out of the way when not in use.

At $200 for the 70-liter version, the Allpa is about the same price as the Black Hole 70, and offers an extra dose of convenience with its additional features. But we do have a major gripe with its design: The duffel does not include buckles on the backpack straps, meaning you’ll have to unthread the webbing for unhindered access to the main compartment. But there’s still a lot to like about the duffel, especially for fans of Cotopaxi’s design aesthetic. The Allpa duffel also comes in a 50-liter version, and the Allpa collection also features a full lineup of travel packs, fanny packs , and gear-hauler totes.  See the Cotopaxi Allpa 70L

17. REI Co-op Big Haul 60 Recycled ($139)

We know the competition is stiff in this category, including popular and proven bags like the Patagonia Black Hole and The North Face Base Camp above. But the second REI duffel to make our list wins out in one important category: price. For $139, the Big Haul 60 is another tough and versatile option with a healthy array of bells and whistles. You get solid weather resistance, comfortable backpack straps, a number of handles for easy grabbing, and decent organization on the inside in the form of mesh pockets. The 60-liter duffel included here likely can be used as a carry-on provided it’s not stuffed to the gills, or you can play it safe and opt for the 40-liter version for $119. 

Given that the REI Co-op Big Haul 60 is a strong value, why is it included toward the bottom of this list? From our experience, the build quality isn’t quite up to Patagonia standards, and the REI doesn’t have that sleek, high-end look either. On the other hand, the Big Haul has a thicker (1,680D) fabric around the bottom to prevent wear and tear (and a thinner 400D nylon around the top), many of the same features, and should get the job done for most people and uses. What’s more, it's now made with recycled fabric, which is a big win for everyone. All in all, it’s another quality product from REI’s in-house line at an attractive price point. And the Co-op also makes the Big Haul Recycled in a rolling version, which comes in both 30- and 34-inch sizes ($279 and $299 respectively). See the REI Co-op Big Haul 60 Recycled

18. Mountain Hardwear Camp 4 65 ($140)

Mountain Hardwear offers some of the most serious outdoor duffels on the market, from the high-capacity Expedition above to the Camp 4 here. Riffing off the design of a haul bag, the Camp 4 has a cylindrical shape that lies on its side when open but can stand up on its own when full. In our opinion this is more of a stylistic feature than anything (climbers will love the vibe), but it might come in handy while staging duffels for transport—and we do love the large external zip pocket at the top for staying organized. Finally, one large grab handle on each side are great for the duffel shuffle, and the backpack straps remove when not in use.

But despite its haul-bag aesthetic, the Camp 4 is not particularly robust compared to most duffels here. The relatively thin 420-denier nylon will hold up to a lot of use, but we don’t recommend actually trying to haul the bag up an abrasive rock face (the similarly intentioned Black Diamond Stonehauler above features a much thicker 600 x 1,500D shell, although weight goes up by around 7 oz.). On the other hand, we do appreciate the Camp 4’s generous reinforcements around the edges, which is where duffels tend to collect wear, and its relatively compact packed size will come in handy for some. In the end, the Mountain Hardwear is a great combination of style and function for $50 less than the Stonehauler 60, making it another nice option for those packing for their next adventure. See the Mountain Hardwear Camp 4 65

19. Backcountry All Around 60L ($139)

The All Around is Backcountry’s addition to the outdoor duffel market and a continuation of their growing line of in-house gear. Similar to the Patagonia Black Hole and The North Face Base Camp above, it boasts a U-shaped zipper opening, several pockets for organization, and the option of being worn as a backpack. And like the Base Camp, an external zipper on one end opens to a large secondary compartment, great for separating dirty laundry or shoes. And with the most recent redesign, the All Around now includes a padded base for added structure and protection.

Backcountry didn’t necessarily do anything new in the All Around, but they did make a quality bag at a respectable price point. Stacked up against our top-ranked Black Hole, it lags behind in durability (300D vs. 900D polyester) and capacity options, and you’ll either love or hate the bold goat logo on one end. And while some of Patagonia’s colorways are more subtle or sophisticated (call it what you will), Backcountry has taken a page out of Cotopaxi’s book with their loud, colorblocked designs. The All Around will save you $30 compared to the Black Hole 55 (and give you 5L more space), but we recommend that consistent travelers stick with the tried-and-true Patagonia. See the Backcountry All Around 60L

Duffel Bag Comparison Table

About our testing process.

The editors at Switchback are no strangers to travel—it’s literally in our name. Based on our collective experiences traveling both domestically and internationally, we started this list in early 2019 with 18 high-quality duffels, some of which remain to this day (including our top-rated Patagonia Black Hole). Former senior editor Jenny Abegg took ownership of the guide soon after, adding her expertise as a globetrotter in constant pursuit of perfect granite and seldom-trafficked trails from southern Patagonia to the Canadian Rockies. Senior editor Chris Carter currently manages the round-up. Based in the southeastern U.S., Chris is always daydreaming about his next adventure, with bucket-list destinations like Nepal and Africa already stamped on his passport.

There’s no one-size-fits-all duffel bag, so our lineup of 19 picks above runs the gamut from ultralight and packable options for picking up souvenirs during your travels to burly waterproof and wheeled models that can take a licking. When we evaluate performance, we look at several factors: Capacity will largely depend on your intended use and packing preferences, but a practical organizational layout, multiple carrying options, and thick fabrics are all hallmarks of a high-quality design. We’ve stuffed many of the designs above to the brim in search of the best options, and we’ll continue bringing new and noteworthy duffels along on adventures near and far to keep the list up-to-date.  

Duffel Bag Buying Advice

Duffel bag categories: travel, outdoor, waterproof, duffel bag capacity, roller duffel bags.

• Main Compartment
• External Pockets
• Compression Straps
• Daisy Chains (Lash Points)
• Carrying Options
• Durability (Denier)

Water Resistance

Packability.

• Sustainability  

Travel Duffels Whether you’re packing for a weekend getaway, flying home for the holidays, or going to the gym, travel duffels offer a durable way to transport items from Point A to B. These bags range from minimally featured duffels—often just sporting hand carry straps and shoulder straps for short commutes—to roller bags (like the Osprey Sojourn Shuttle 100L ) that are great for carting around heavy loads. Robust fabrics and rugged wheels set the travel bags in this article apart from the standard suitcases and rollers you often see at the airport. That said, these bags lack the focus on water-resistance that we see in outdoor duffels, usually forgoing storm flaps over the zippers and DWR coating. But for travelers who don’t plan on subjecting their bags to the elements, travel duffels are a nice mix of durability, convenience, and simplicity.  

Outdoor Duffels Many duffels on this list are made by big outdoor brands like Patagonia, The North Face, Osprey, and Black Diamond. Outdoor use can vary substantially, from throwing your bag in the back of a truck to hardcore expeditions. In this category, look for robust fabrics with DWR coating, water-resistant zippers or storm-flaps, comfortable backpack carrying straps, lash points, and handles for grabbing the bag from multiple angles. And versatility is a notable upside of outdoor duffels: We’ll often use them for basic travel purposes as well, especially those with multiple carrying options and convenient organizational features like U-shaped openings and multiple pockets or compartments. For example, the Patagonia Black Hole , our top pick, can be used from anything from serious outdoor exploration to standard air travel (and it looks the part for both).   

Waterproof Duffels Most duffels here are highly water-resistant, meaning they're able to keep out light to moderate rain and snow. But a small percentage of users, including rafters, fishermen and women, and winter adventurers, need a fully waterproof duffel. The market is limited, but there are a few bags that offer a high level of waterproofing, including the Yeti Panga above, Osprey Transporter Waterproof , and NRS High Roll Duffel Dry Bag . With the help of thick waterproof fabrics, watertight zippers, and roll tops, these bags are designed to keep your gear dry on wet boat decks, in inclement weather, and during quick dunks in the water (the Osprey even has an IPX7 rating, meaning it'll keep water out when submerged in 1 meter of water for 30 minutes). Given their overbuilt nature, we wouldn’t want a waterproof duffel for anything but the harshest and wettest of environments: They’re simply too heavy, expensive, and technically oriented (minimal organization and straps) for everyday use.   

Large: 75+ liters Duffels that are 75 liters or larger are heavy haulers for longer trips, multiple people, and outdoor equipment (boots, backpacks, tents, etc.). When we fly to go backpacking, we love our 100-liter REI Co-op Roadtripper Duffel : It can fit multiple empty backpacks, bulky footwear, and all of our extras. It’s worth noting that these bags can get heavy fast depending on what you stow inside of them, so keep an eye out for total weight as you’re packing. Clothing and most regular items should keep you below the 50-pound checked bag limit, but if you’re packing anything particularly heavy, it can be an issue. And for serious outdoor and expedition use, duffels like The North Face Base Camp are made all the way up to 150 liters.

The roller duffel is one of those “have your cake and eat it, too” scenarios for travelers wanting the ease of wheeling their bag with the packing convenience of a duffel. We’ll start by noting that roller duffels are quite popular, and particularly for air travel. You simply take the bag out of your car, wheel it to check-in (or your gate if it’s a carry-on), and you’re off. Roller duffels are ideal for those who don’t want to carry their bag on their back or shoulder, and some of the smaller versions (in the 40-liter range and under) are carry-on compatible.  

But roller duffels do have their limitations. First, rarely do roller duffels come with anything more than carry handles (read: no backpack straps), making them difficult to transport in areas without sufficient rolling surfaces. Second, cheaper or ultralight duffels have a tendency to fall over when full, which is something to be aware of when making a purchase (heavier models like the Osprey Sojourn Shuttle do not fall over, which makes them worth the extra cost in our opinion). Finally, roller duffels inherently have more breakable parts. Some duffels have replaceable wheels but many don’t, which is a quick way to lose all of that easy transport functionality.  

For travel scenarios where you’ll be moving around a lot—think backpacking through Europe—we prefer non-roller duffels. They’re easy to grab and throw on your back, and you don’t have to worry about the surface (if you’ve ever tried taking a roller duffel down a cobblestone street, you know what we’re talking about). If you’re primarily an air traveler and moving your bag long distances by vehicle, a roller duffel is a fine option, and you do get the added benefit of one hard side for protecting your belongings. For the purposes of this article and the picks above, we’ve included a handful of our favorite roller models, and some of the standard designs have wheeled versions available.  

  Pockets and Organization

Main Compartment Hands down, the easiest duffels to pack, unpack, and rummage around in are those with a large, U-shaped opening. Duffels such as the Osprey Transporter 65 feature this design: A zippered flap extends around three of the four sides of the top of the duffel and opens to reveal most of the contents. These bags provide easy access whether in a hotel, tent, or on the road. Other bags open in a more traditional style, with one zipper that extends across the top of the bag. With a smaller opening, access to the contents is more limited, and especially when full (this means more rummaging and disorganization). If you’re looking to prioritize convenience above all else, large roller duffels like the Osprey Sojourn Shuttle offer the most rigid structure and largest opening for packing and unpacking.  

External Pockets When choosing a duffel, consider how much you’ll want access to your belongings as you travel. The most streamlined models feature one large compartment with no internal organization (the REI Co-op Roadtripper, for example), while more fully featured designs include handy external pockets for small items or padded compartments for a tablet or computer. Some duffel bags are even made with specific gear organization in mind, such as the Thule Bike Gear Locker Duffel (with dedicated pockets for shoes and a helmet) and the Thule RoundTrip Snowsports Duffel , which features a fleece-lined goggle pocket and boot compartments on each end. For travelers, we think that at least one external pocket is nice to separate out your smaller essentials.   

Compression Straps Compression straps, both internal and external, can help make a duffel’s load more compact. Internal straps remove strain from the zipper and compress your gear inside the duffel to keep it from shifting during transit. We see these on models like the Patagonia Black Hole and Mountain Hardwear Expedition Duffel . External compression straps can be on the ends or sides (such as with The North Face Base Camp) and tighten the duffel after the zipper has been shut. External straps are especially useful on large duffels that might not be stuffed to capacity, and they help make your bag less unruly for travel. Additionally, if you plan on frequently carrying your duffel as a backpack, we encourage you to consider a model with compression straps—it makes the whole operation a lot more comfortable.  

Daisy Chains (Lash Points) If you’re using your duffel primarily to transport your belongings via plane, train, or automobile, you’re probably wondering why you might need the daisy chains lining the exterior. However, put your pack in a raft, saddle it to a mule, or strap it to the roof of your van, and you’ll wonder how you ever got by without them. Not all duffels come with daisy chains (a.k.a. lash points) and some have more than others. If you know that you’ll need to secure your duffel for a wild ride, definitely be on the lookout for a bag that sports plenty of reinforced lash points. The most outdoorsy the bag, the more likely it is to be lined with daisy chains.  

Carrying Options: Backpack Straps, Shoulder Straps, Handles

We’ve all been there: clumsily dragging our bag across the airport lobby and cursing ourselves for not purchasing something with wheels (or a travel backpack ). And if you’re looking for a bag in the 60-liter range or larger, know that when it gets full, it’s going to be heavy . The good news is that duffel manufacturers have gotten creative with designing bags that can be carried in a multitude of ways. Below are the main carrying options, and some fully featured bags offer all four.  

Backpack Straps For those who are able to throw their bag over their back and walk with it, backpack straps are our preferred carrying method. Many of the high-end bags on this list have backpack straps that are lightly padded and often removable. One duffel in particular, the Osprey Transporter , has many similarities to an actual backpack and is great for those planning to cover longer distances. Keep in mind that carrying comfort does vary, which is one reason why some bags are ranked higher than others. When not in use, many backpack straps simply detach for storage in the main compartment (this keeps them out of airport conveyor belts). Sometimes, simply tightening down the straps flush to the bag can be enough.  

Shoulder Straps Though less comfortable than backpack straps over extended periods, a single shoulder strap is a quick way to carry your duffel short distances. In particular, we like shoulder straps on smaller duffels that don’t weigh a ton (they can start to get uncomfortable around the popular 60-liter range). Not all duffel bags come with shoulder straps, but we see them frequently on smaller capacity, travel-specific bags. Shoulder straps usually are removable, allowing you to streamline your duffel for transport. Carry Handles Most duffels have carry handles of some sort, whether they’re dedicated straps or a simple padded handle connecting the backpack straps to each other. Carry handles are useful for picking up a bag and moving it a short distance, and they’re great for carrying small capacity bags in one hand. Some duffels like the Osprey Transporter omit carry handles altogether­ in favor of shoulder and backpack straps. This can make sense for big, heavy bags, but we still prefer having the option.  

Grab Handles Grab handles often are located on the ends or sides of a bag and sit close to the surface. Similar to carry handles, they are used to quickly lift or slide a duffel. Having a grab handle on each side is convenient when moving the bag around (think about grabbing it from the overhead bin of an airplane or the storage compartment on the bottom of a bus). We love grab handles: They are one the reasons that duffels are so versatile and easy to move around.  

  Durability (Denier)

We reference durability frequently in this article—everyone wants their investment to last. The most common way of measuring fabric strength is denier (D), and the higher the rating, the tougher the fabric will be. All deniers are not created equal, but this gives you a general idea of how two duffels stack up to each other in terms of toughness. When available, we’ve included the denier rating of each bag in our handy comparison table above, which range from 1,000D for a bag like The North Face Base Camp down to 300D for the Backcountry All Around. It’s worth noting that the manufacturers sometimes provide two numbers, which refer to the different panels (usually the highest number is the bottom of the bag that is exposed to the ground, whereas the lower number are the sides and top). This number may not be the definitive factor in your buying decision, but it certainly can help tip the scales when choosing between two close competitors.  

Duffels advertised as “water-resistant” are designed to keep your belongings protected from light rain and soggy ground. These models often cover their durable ripstop fabric with a laminate that keeps moisture from soaking in (often a DWR treatment or something similar). A DWR treatment certainly is a nice feature for everyone using a duffel: The weather is unpredictable when traveling, you never know when your duffel might be sitting on the tarmac for a few extra minutes, and it’s super helpful for outdoor use. In addition, some bags have flaps covering the zippers, which can be a point of weakness. Water-resistant gear does have limitations: It should work well in light-to-moderate precipitation but eventually will soak through.   

As mentioned above, a few duffels on the market take it a step further with waterproof fabrics, including the Yeti Panga above. With a fully waterproof zippered seal, the Yeti can even be submerged. On the other hand, most duffels with vinyl or laminate finishes (such as the Patagonia Black Hole) will keep your gear dry in a rainstorm, but their zippers and seams might leak with sustained exposure to moisture. All things considered, a waterproof duffel is essential for water sports but overkill for travelers who stick to land.  

Some travelers may not care about the weight of their duffel, but for others it’s a factor, and particularly with heavier rolling models. Most non-wheeled duffels weigh just a few pounds or less, which makes them easy to carry, throw in your car, and store when not in use. Rolling duffels, on the other hand, tend to get a bit heavy. For example, The North Face Base Camp Voyager Roller weighs 9 pounds 7 ounces empty for the 94-liter version, which already accounts for almost 20% of the standard 50-pound limit for checked bags. And the Osprey Sojourn Shuttle 100L weighs 8 pounds 9.6 ounces but has a larger capacity at 100 liters (and comes in a massive 130-liter version). We can tell you that a loaded Sojourn Shuttle with things like shoes can get awfully close to the 50 pounds—we’ve been in the high 40s on a number of occasions. It’s also worth noting that a 45-pound bag isn’t the easiest to get in and out of your car or up a flight of stairs.  

Packability won't be high on the priority list for most travelers, but there are a few instances in which a streamlined duffel can come in handy. For those who anticipate coming home with more than they started—or vice versa—being able to stow an empty duffel in another bag is a great way to consolidate your load. A few of the picks above pack into a stuff pocket or included packing cube, including the REI Co-op Roadtripper 100 and Patagonia Black Hole 55. However, it's worth noting that these options are still quite bulky—if you need a more minimalist design, check out a model like the Osprey Ultralight Stuff Duffel . Ultra-packable duffels do come with their fair share of trade-offs—including less durable fabrics, a floppy structure, and typically small capacities—so we only recommend them for those who specifically need the more streamlined design.

Sustainability

We appreciate when brands go the extra mile in creating eco-friendlier products, starting with the use of recycled materials. Another increasingly common measure in the duffel world and beyond is PFC/PFAS-free DWR coatings that forgo the use of perfluorocarbons—“forever chemicals” that are notorious for their inability to break down over time. Finally, we look out for bluesign-approved materials that have been deemed safe for workers, consumers, and the environment, as well as certification to the Fair Trade standard—this indicates that a brand has put extra money into production to ensure workers are compensated fairly and have access to safe working conditions (you can read more about Patagonia’s involvement in the program here ). Patagonia, Cotopaxi, and REI Co-op are three clear leaders in the sustainability realm, but other notable players like Osprey, Gregory, Nemo, and Eagle Creek have begun incorporating some or all of the measures above in many of their products—duffel bags included. Back to Our Top Duffel Bag Picks   Back to Our Duffel Bag Comparison Table

Read More From Switchback Travel

Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

Hiking Gear Reviews

Best Women’s Travel Pants of 2024

Best Coolers of 2024

Best Rain Jackets of 2024

Best Satellite Messengers of 2024

Best Headlamps of 2024

Best Hiking Shoes of 2024

Best Camping Tents of 2024

Mobile Menu

Megamenu - desktop hamburger menu.

• Hiking Gear
• Backpacking Gear
• Biking Gear
• Camping Gear
• Footwear Reviews
• Climbing Gear
• Skiing Gear
• Winter Gear Reviews
• In-Depth Gear Reviews
• Hiking Shoes
• Hiking Boots
• Trail Running Shoes
• Mountain Bike Shoes
• Approach Shoes
• Climbing Shoes
• Beginner Climbing Shoes
• Mountaineering Boots
• Winter Boots
• Rain Jackets
• Down Jackets
• Synthetic Jackets
• Fleece Jackets
• Hardshell Jackets
• Softshell Jackets
• Windbreaker Jackets
• Ski Jackets
• Winter Jackets
• Hiking Pants
• Hiking Socks
• Trekking Poles
• Baby Carriers
• Running Vests
• Backpacking Tents
• Backpacking Packs
• Backpacking Sleeping Bags
• Backpacking Sleeping Pads
• Backpacking Stoves
• Backpacking Food
• Water Filters
• Altimeter Watches
• Handheld GPS
• Mountain Bike Helmets
• Mountain Bikes
• Mountain Bikes Under $1,000
• Mountain Bikes Under $2,000
• Gravel Bikes
• Bike Brands
• Kids' Bikes
• Hitch Bike Racks
• Camping Tents
• Rooftop Tents
• Camping Sleeping Bags
• Camping Mattresses
• Camping Chairs
• Camping Stoves
• Duffel Bags
• Rock Climbing Shoes
• Climbing Helmets
• Climbing Harnesses
• Climbing Quickdraws
• Belay Devices
• Climbing Ropes
• Climbing Backpacks
• Winter Gloves
• 4-Season Tents
• Ski Helmets
• Ski Goggles
• Ski Backpacks
• All-Mountain Skis
• Ski Bindings
• Backcountry Skis
• Backcountry Ski Boots
• Skis for Beginners
• Hardpack Skis
• Mirrorless Cameras
• Full-Frame Cameras
• DSLR Cameras
• Point-and-Shoot Cameras
• Travel Cameras
• DSLR Lenses
• Mirrorless Lenses
• Lofoten Islands
• Lofoten Hiking
• Hardangervidda
• Jotunheimen
• 10 Great Norway Hikes
• Public Huts
• Torres del Paine
• Chalten and Glaciares
• Lake District
• Patagonia National Park
• Milford Sound
• Abel Tasman
• Marlborough
• Great Walks
• Adventure Towns

Add adventure to your inbox

• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Service

© 2024 Switchback Travel. All Rights Reserved. No part of this site may be reproduced without our written permission.

Table of contents

10 Best Duffel Bags of 2024

Some of the links on this page are affiliate links

When it comes to versatility, a high-quality duffel bag is tough to beat: they’re useful for travel, camping, storage, and so much more. Whether you need a convenient way to tote bulky items or you’re in a hurry to get out the door for an overnighter, a duffel bag makes packing quick and easy.

There are a ton of options that may seem similar at first – what’s so complicated about one large compartment? To find out, our team tested more than 20 duffel bags over hundreds of trips, putting them through the wringer through long flights, muddy camping trips, grimy train stations and frontcountry RV sites. We’ve carefully compared every detail to separate the crème de la crème from the dead ends, and we’re confident you’ll find your new favorite duffel bag on this list.

If you need a little more structure to your carryall, our list of the best travel backpacks or best backpacking backpacks has what you need. We can also point you in the right direction with day packs (which make great personal items for air travel) as well as fanny packs for items you need to keep close at hand.

Quick Picks for Duffel Bags

Check out this list of our top-rated duffel bags, or keep on scrolling to check out the entire list with thoughtful reviews.

Best duffel bag overall: Patagonia Black Hole 55 ($169)

Best value duffel bag: Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler 60 ($119)

Best budget duffel bag:  Gonex Canvas ($60)

Most comfortable to carry: Osprey Transporter 65 ($180)

Best ultralight packable duffel: Matador Freefly ($8 5)

Best large capacity duffel bag: Mountain Hardwear Expedition 100 ($280)

Great value duffel with excellent organization: The North Face Base Camp ($149)

Highly packable & affordable duffel bag: REI Roadtripper 40 ($50)

Best waterproof duffel bag: YETI Panga 75 ($350)

Best wheeled duffel bag: The North Face Rolling Thunder ($270 )

The Clever Hiker team has been roadtripping and flying all over the world testing the most promising duffel bags out there against our favorites, and this list has seen some sweeping changes.

• The Patagonia Black Hole 55 takes the number 1 spot for unrivaled durability, impressive water resistance, and do-it-all features.
• One of the best values on this list, the Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler 60  is near the top of the list as a compressible but well-organized duffel bag with intuitive pockets and excellent attention to detail.
• We added the sleek Gonex Plambag Canvas  as a roomy duffel bag at an accessible price point for short weekend trips.
• The super cushy Osprey Transporter 65  makes the cut as a bombproof duffel bag with excellent construction that’s easy to carry thanks to soft, cushioned straps.

• Patagonia Black Hole 55

Best duffel bag overall

Price: $169

Weight: 2 lb. 9.1 oz.

Capacity: 55 L

Dimensions: 26.7 x 15.7 x 11.8 in.

• Excellent value
• Highly water-resistant
• Lightweight
• Muliple ways to carry
• Padded backpack straps
• Great color options
• Folds into its own pocket
• External lash points
• Difficult to get in & out of storage pocket
• Limited colorways

The  Patagonia Black Hole 55 has been our go-to duffel bag for a long time because it’s durable, comfortable to carry, and amazingly versatile. This duffel can be hand-carried, or you can attach the padded backpack straps to carry it on your back. If it’s not completely stuffed, it can also pass for a carry-on bag on flights, so we often use it for quick getaways over a long weekend. We love this model because it’s also able to collapse completely into its own pocket – although it can take a couple of minutes – but this feature makes the Black Hole an incredibly versatile option for trips of all sizes. The Black Hole is an excellent value and we highly recommend it for anyone looking for a stylish and long-lasting duffel with excellent weather-resistance.

• Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler 60

Best value duffel bag

Weight: 2 lb. 3 oz.

Capacity: 60 L

Dimensions: 26.75 x 10.25 x 13.5 in.

• Multiple ways to carry
• 3 large compartments
• Lots of colorways
• Bottom isn’t as durable as others on this list
• Few external lash points

Eagle Creek is an authority when it comes to travel bags, and their  Cargo Hauler 60  is our favorite bag we’ve used from them. Of all the bags on our list, this duffel has our most ideal organizational features – two large end compartments, a pocket on the top flap (this stores the backpack straps but could also be used for items you need often, like a jacket or travel documents), and a large main compartment with a detachable divider in the middle. It’s also nearly waterproof thanks to its material and covered zippers, so it’s a good choice for travel in unpredictable weather. We appreciate the wide variety of muted colorways to match any style. The Cargo Hauler comes at an amazing price point for the quality and features you get, and the simple yet functional organization is hard to beat.

• Gonex Canvas

Best budget duffel bag

Weight: 2 lb. 12.8 oz.

Capacity: 50 L

Dimensions: 20.8 x 9.8 x 11.8 in.

• Lot of pockets
• Comfortable shoulder strap
• Not as durable as some
• A bit bulky
• Lots of zippers

The stylish and affordable GoNex Canvas duffel is an incredible deal at only $49, making this one of our top Budget Buys on this list. This model is packed with organizational pockets – zippered pockets on all four sides, an internal zipper pouch, internal divided pockets, and a large main compartment. All of these zippers make the bag a bit noisy to walk with and a bit busy to look at, but the functionality is outstanding. Plus, it’s expandable if you need a little more space. The Gonex Duffel is our first choice for business travel when a professional look matters and we have a lot of small items we want to keep organized, but it could also transition to roadtrips, festivals, and weekend trips as well. While this duffel isn’t as durable as some of the more outdoorsy duffels on our list, it’s a standout for light use and casual adventures.

• Osprey Transporter 65

Most comfortable to carry

Price: $180

Weight: 3 lb.

Capacity: 65 L

Dimensions: 24 x 14 x 13 in.

• Very comfortable to carry
• Water-resistant
• Compression straps
• Sleek profile
• Buckles can be a little cumbersome when zipping the main compartment
• Difficult to fold into pocket

We’re big fans of Osprey’s travel bags (check out our other favorites on our  Best Travel Backpacks  list), and the  Osprey Transporter 65 is another winner in the lineup. If there’s one thing Osprey really excels at, it’s comfort. The Transporter has seriously cushy, comfy, padded straps that make it easy to carry by hand using any of the four handles, over the shoulder, or as a backpack. The large U-zip flap for the main compartment makes it easy to find what you need without having to dig around, and the internal compression straps keep things nice and tidy. We found the buckles are a cit chunky and can be clunky when the bag is packed, but this is no dealbreaker – every component of the transporter is built with the top quality materials. This Osprey model is great all around for comfort, quality, and price, so it’s the duffel we often reach for when heading to the airport or packing for longer trips.

• Matador Freefly

Best ultralight packable duffel

Weight: 8.5 oz.

Capacity: 30 L

Dimensions: 22 x 11 x 8 in.

• Durable bottom
• Packs into itself (about the size of a baseball)
• Not as durable as others
• Not as versatile as others
• Smaller size
• Uncomfortable to carry for a long time

The  Matador Freefly duffel is an impressive little bag that’s fully waterproof and highly packable. It’s also one of the lightest options on this list, making it an excellent alternative to a daypack or fanny pack. This duffel can even be tossed into a larger travel bag for packing extra goodies on the way back from a trip, or you can use it to tote essentials around while your larger bag stays in your vacation rental. Its small size might not be for everyone, but its sleek design certainly is – this simple and stylish profile blends seamlessly into professional, business and casual settings. Since its waterproof, the Freefly also makes a great beach bag or riverside picnic packer. We find that the unpadded straps and thinner materials mean don’t handle heavy loads comfortably, so it’s not the best standalone bag for anything more than a weekend trip. Still, the value price of the Freefly makes this handy bag a worthwhile addition to your collection.

• Mountain Hardwear Expedition 100

Best large capacity duffel bag

Price: $280

Weight: 3 lb. 13.2 oz.

Capacity: 100 L

Dimensions: 28 x 15 x 13 in.

• Large capacity
• Comfortable straps
• Good organiztion
• Folds into storage bag
• Too large for casual use
• Size makes it a little impractical to carry as a backpack
• Heavier than some

If you need a big duffel that can haul it all, the  Mountain Hardwear Expedition 100 is an amazing choice with an excellent array of organizational details. We use this bag a lot for car camping when we need a catch-all bag, and it’s perfect for storing our gear when we get back home. You won’t find a more burly construction on this list, especially considering the seriously thick nylon bottom of the bag. One feature we find particularly useful on the Expedition is the closure system. When the main compartment is really stuffed, you can use the compression clips to keep the side walls together making it much easier to zip shut. This bag is on the pricey side, but if you’re looking for long-term durability, ease of use, and large capacity, the Expedition is 100% worth the cost, since you’ll be investing in a bag that can withstand the gnarliest of weather, roads, and journeys.

• The North Face Base Camp

Great value duffel with excellent organization

Price: $149

Weight: 3 lb. 9.1 oz.

Capacity: 71 L

Dimensions: 14 x 25 in.

• Well-organized pockets
• Comes with storage bag
• Round shape can make it a little more difficult to pack

The classic crowd favorite  Base Camp duffel from The North Face is a solid choice for anything from travel to, well… base camp! This duffel comes in a ton of sizes ranging from 31 L all the way up to 150 L, so you’re sure to find one that suits your needs. We like the medium size best (71 L) because it’s large enough to pack a ton of stuff into for big adventures, but small enough that it could still pass as a carry-on bag if it isn’t completely filled to the brim. The rigid material makes it easy to pack without the sidewalls collapsing in, something that we love about this bag in a world of big, floppy duffels. The large U-shaped opening is a standout on this list, as it allows you to easily access items without having to dig. And with four separate storage compartments, it’s simple to keep all of your gear neat and tidy with the Base Camp.

• REI Roadtripper 40

Highly packable & affordable duffel bag

Weight: 1 lb.

Capacity: 40 L

Dimensions: 21 x 10 x 10 in.

• Floppy material makes it less convenient to pack than some

You know those trips where you come home with a lot more stuff than you left with – like heading home for the holidays or a trip abroad that involves some shopping? These are precisely the times when we wouldn’t be caught without our  REI Roadtripper 40  duffel bag. This bag is highly packable and very lightweight so it’s easy to stuff into your main luggage if you know you’ll need some extra space on the way back home. And its affordable price makes it a good option for use as an overnight bag or for everyday use around town. We love the versatility of the Roadtripper duffel, and we recommend it for those looking for a good balance of price and convenience.

• YETI Panga 75

Best waterproof duffel bag

Price: $350

Weight: 6.1 lb.

Capacity: 75 L

Dimensions: 28 x 15.5 x 11 in.

• Fully waterproof
• Very durable
• One-zipper access increases safety
• Adjustable backpack straps
• Burly construction
• Very expensive
• Bulky/heavy
• Size makes it a bit impractical to carry as a backpack

If you need a duffel that’s rugged and fully waterproof, check out the  YETI Panga 75 . This beast of a bag is awesome for water-centric adventures like rafting and boating when you have important things you need to keep dry. We love the structure of this model, which makes it very easy to pack because it’s not constantly collapsing on itself. That said, it’s a little heavier and bulkier than we typically like for casual use, so when it comes to a weekend trip or flying to see a friend, the Panga isn’t our first choice. The Panga comes with a pretty daunting price tag, but we think it’s worth the splurge for those who love to play on the water – if you kayak, SUP, or love a good river float, this is the best waterproof duffel out there. This ultra durable Yeti model is a premium bag if you’re looking for the best weather protection, top-quality materials, and construction to last a lifetime.

• The North Face Rolling Thunder

Best wheeled duffel

Price: $270

Weight: 7 lb. 3.2 oz.

Dimensions: (22”, laid flat): 22 x 14 x 8.5 in.

• Good value compared to other rolling duffels
• Simple, efficient design
• Perfect size for airline travel
• Telescoping handle
• Expensive compared to non-wheeled duffels
• Few organizational features

The wheeled  North Face Rolling Thunder is a great choice for those needing a convenient carry-on bag for airline travel. With sturdy, yet smooth wheels, the Rolling Thunder will get you from your door, to your terminal, and up the stone walkway of your vacation rental with ease. The telescoping handle and multiple carry options make this bag one of our favorites for plane-centric adventures. Because there isn’t much in the way of internal organization, we usually use this duffel for quick trips when we don’t have a bunch of little things and electronics to pack. That said, the rigid material of the roller does well to keep your belongings safe during transport, so you can fill this bag to the brim without worrying about damage. Compared to similar rolling duffels, the Rolling Thunder is an awesome value and it’s a great choice if you’re looking to keep the weight off your back.

What’s Most Important to You in a Duffel Bag?

Duffel bag prices vary greatly depending on the size and features they come with. If you want something large or waterproof, you’ll likely pay a premium price. That said, there are plenty of affordable high-quality duffels on the market if you don’t need all the fancy bells and whistles.

Best value duffel bags

Best budget duffel bags

• M atador Freefly
• Shacke Express Weekender

Best high-end duffel bags

Weight adds up quickly when you start tossing stuff into a duffel. Keeping the weight of the bag itself low will help reduce the overall stress on your body when you’re carrying it. That said, heavier bags tend to be more durable and are often more weather-resistant.

Best ultralight duffel bags

Best lightweight duffel bags

Best heavy-duty duffel bags

The right size duffel bag depends on what you’ll be using it for and how heavy you pack. We usually prefer duffels that are 50-60L to have enough room for necessities while keeping everything in a small, streamlined package. If you’ll be using your bag for bulky items, a duffel with a 70-100 L capacity will likely be a better fit for you.

Best 40-60 L duffel bags

Best 65-100 L duffel bags

• The North Face Base Camp (M)

CARRY-ON SIZE

Consider the dimensions of the duffel bag when it’s fully loaded if you want to be able to take it as carry-on luggage for flights. If the dimensions of your duffel are on the edge, you should still be able to carry it on a plane if it’s not filled to the brim. Carry-on size will vary slightly between airlines, but for these recommendations we used the standard 22 x 14 x 9 in.

Best carry-on duffel bags

• Patagonia Black Hole 55 (when not completely full)

Most duffel bags are designed to withstand a good amount of heavy use, but some are more durable than others in the long run. If you’ll be using your duffel for lots of air travel or rugged adventuring, consider one of our most durable picks.

Most durable duffel bags

WEATHERPROOFING

If you want to use your duffel bag for rafting, SUPing, boating, or other water-based excursions, you’ll want one that’s completely waterproof to keep your stuff dry. For most regular use, a water-resistant duffel that can shed a bit of rain is usually sufficient.

Most water-resistant duffel bags

THE GONEX CANVAS IS AN AFFORDABLE DUFFEL WITH A HIGH-END LOOK

Duffel bags are convenient for travel when you have a lot of bulky items to pack

LIGHTWEIGHT DUFFELS, LIKE THE EAGLE CREEK CARGO HAULER ( LEFT ) & OSPREY TRANSPORTER ( RIGHT ), ARE MORE COMFY TO WEAR AS A BACKPACK

THE MOUNTAIN HARDWEAR EXPEDITION 100 HAS MULTIPLE POINTS OF COMPRESSION TO HELP KEEP YOUR LOAD MANAGEABLE

THE THE NORTH FACE ROLLING THUNDER TAKES THE WEIGHT OFF YOUR BACK

THE THICK MATERIAL ON THE NORTH FACE BASE CAMP DUFFEL BAG IS DESIGNED FOR RUGGED ADVENTURING

THE YETI PANGA 75 IS FULLY WATERPROOF

Critical Duffel Bag Considerations

Getting organized.

Keeping things organized is key to a stress-free travel experience. Some duffel bags are designed with organizational pockets and compartments, but many have just one large opening. We like organizing our things in packing cubes to keep everything neat.

Carry-on size varies a lot between airlines; check your airline’s website to make sure your duffel fits their dimensions. Also be sure your toiletries and liquids meet the standard of 3-1-1 (3.4 oz. liquids in 1 bag sized at 1 quart max) for carry-on. We love using refillable GoToobs for our shampoo, conditioner, and other toiletries.

Even considering the most durable duffel bags on this list, most are floppy and formless when empty. What gives a duffel bag form is it’s contents and how you pack everything. More rigid options with structure are easier to pack the bag, but tend to be more bulky; softer bags can feel more messy inside, but often cinch small and pack away even smaller. Regardless, we always recommend using packing cubes or stuffs sacks to keep like items together and add more form and infrastructure.

If you’re using your duffel bag for travel, the most important safety tip we can give is to just be aware of your surroundings. Some people also like to bring small luggage locks to lock zippers and RFID technology wallets and card sleeves to protect sensitive information.

WATERPROOFING TREATMENTS

No one plans to spend extended time in rain or snow with their duffel bags – but anything can happen. Water will eventually find its way through zippers, seams, and fabric of even the best duffel bags. That’s why we always recommend packing the items that simply cannot get wet in waterproof stuff sacks  or  Ziploc bags  inside your bag. You can also line the inside of your backpack with a  strong trash bag  to keep all your stuff dry. 

Duffel Bag Honorable Mentions

While they didn’t quite make our final list, these duffel bags still have their strong points. That said, one of them could be your perfect match:

YETI Crossroads 60  – The Crossroads is an extremely high quality duffel that’s fully waterproof. We love that this bag is rugged and holds it shaped when not packed, and it also has a very wide opening for easy packing and locating items inside. The biggest downside is it’s price tag: it’s expensive compared to other options on our list, which is why it’s an Honorable Mention. That said, we think this bag could be worth the extra cost for those looking for a tough-as-nails duffel for consistent use in seriously wet adventures.

Shacke Express Weekender – This is an incredibly low-priced duffel bag with a simple design and sharp profile. Featuring one large zippered compartment and two small external pockets, this bag stands out thanks to it’s shoe garage: slide a pair of shoes into a separate, zippered compartment to keep footwear dirt, smell, and debris away from the rest of your belongings. Unfortunately, at this price, you’re sacrificing long-term durability. But if you need an extra stash of clothes for a few days, an inexpensive option for staying organized at home, or a go-bag for roadtrips – this is the one.

Why trust us?

We understand how tough it is to find trustworthy gear advice, and that’s one of the main reasons we built CleverHiker. We live for outdoor adventure, and we take these guides very seriously.

• Our recommendations are completely independent and based on hands-on experience.
• We test outdoor gear for a living – we’ve logged over 20,000 trail miles and 1,000 nights in the wilderness.
• Our team has thru-hiked some of the most iconic long trails, including the Continental Divide Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, Appalachian Trail, Colorado Trail, Long Trail, Oregon Coast Trail, Arizona Trail, Pinhoti Trail, Superior Hiking Trail, as well as extensive peak bagging, and international treks.
• We field test every product we recommend, which is sadly not the norm.
• We travel to industry trade shows to stay up-to-date on product innovations.
• We continuously update our guides throughout the year and when new products launch.
• We treat recommendations to our readers as if they were for our family and friends.
• We’re lifelong learners and we’re always open to feedback. If you think we’ve missed a worthy product or got something wrong, we’d love to know about it.

Need more Backpacking Equipment advice?

10 Best Stuff Sacks of 2024

10 Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

10 Best Backpacking Tents of 2024

Best Backpacking Backpacks of 2024

10 Best Ultralight Tents of 2024

10 Best GPS Watches for Hiking & Backpacking of 2024

10 Best Hammocks for Backpacking & Camping in 2024

10 Best Fanny Packs for Hiking of 2024

10 Best Hiking Daypacks of 2024

7 Best Budget Backpacking Tents of 2024

Ultralight Backpacking Basics

Ultimate Backpacking Checklist & Gear Essentials

Men’s Brooks Cascadia 17 Review

Men’s HOKA Anacapa 2 Low GTX Review

Get the best content from cleverhiker & around the backpacking world.

Social media is great, but our bi-weekly newsletter is a much better way to stay in the know.

Sign up to get our curated emails with the best content from CleverHiker and around the backpacking world. You’ll be turned on to new videos, trip reports, gear reviews, inspiring outdoor stories and much more. So get in the mix!

Every product is independently selected by (obsessive) editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.

What Are the Best Duffel Bags for Travel?

Smaller than a suitcase but bigger than a tote , the classic duffel is a perfectly sized carryall for a long weekend. Peer out at a train platform full of city dwellers fleeing town on a Friday afternoon and you’ll see all varieties of duffels, from waxed-canvas bags hearkening back to the style’s military roots to luxe versions in buttery leather. To find the best duffel bags out there for travel , we asked frequent travelers, including writers, photographers, and a hotel exec, to recommend their favorites. Read on for their picks, which include duffels that convert to backpacks , duffels on wheels, and fancier leather styles that will only look better the more miles you clock with them.

Best nylon duffel bags

While it’s on the smaller side, this compact duffel from Paravel was mentioned by two frequent travelers who love its versatility and lightweight material. “Because it folds up so small, I don’t have to think twice about packing it,” says photographer Alice Gao . “If I do end up bringing home wine , ceramics , [or] other food items and need the extra bag, I’m able to shift my belongings around and won’t be stuck buying extra luggage on the spot.” Fellow photographer Lucy Rose Laucht , who’s also a co-founder of hat brand Tio y Ti a, calls it “the Mary Poppins of duffels: It fits my camera gear , laptop , blanket , a change of clothes , and the kitchen sink.”

The Black Hole duffel lives up to its name, according to travel writer and photographer Michaela Trimble , who has toted it all over the world. “It fit everything I needed for a nearly two-month trip with room to spare,” she told us after traveling with the bag to Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Madagascar. “And it barely came back with a scratch.” Laminated fabric and a water-repellent coating protect the duffel from the elements and any damage that may occur in transit, while keeping it lightweight (it’s under three pounds). Trimble also notes that it “comes with padded straps, so it can easily and comfortably be carried as a backpack .” Strategist senior editor Simone Kitchens also likes the Black Hole duffel, which she says makes a great carry-on . “There are one zillion separate little pockets and perfectly sized compartments for things like chargers and night guards and passports and AirPods , as well as slim sleeves for a laptop and magazines ,” Kitchens says. “It opens at the top, which means things won’t come tumbling out when you need to grab something.”

Like the Black Hole bag, this duffel converts to a backpack but fits as much as a small suitcase. “The very considered design is ideal for someone who is most at home hopping on and off planes and trains,” says Andrew Barker, the chief content officer of the travelers club, PRIOR . He appreciates the bag’s multiple compartments, such as the “zip-up shoe pockets at each end,” and the “TSA-friendly slip pockets [for] easy access to laptop and passport.” In general, Timbuk2’s bags have been on our radar for a while now — we’ve written about their equally durable work backpacks , and contributor David Pogue loves his laptop-friendly Timbuk2 messenger bag (which he’s carried for going on six years).

Another sporty duffel bag, this one comes from the makers of our all-time favorite cooler , can also be worn as a backpack, and is made from thick, laminated nylon that’ll withstand any rough baggage handling. Strategist columnist Chris Black likes that it’s “a fully waterproof duffel bag” that will keep your clothes dry whether you’re tailgating or stuck in the rain.

“I look for a bag that can sit on top of my carry-on, fit a lot of items, and be easily stored when not in use,” says Daniela Velasco, the creative director of Drift and Ambrosia magazines. That bag, for her, is Longchamp’s Le Pilage tote because it carries her camera, laptop, chargers, and more and is water resistant, so she doesn’t have to worry about rain damaging her expensive gear. This duffel is basically a larger version of Velasco’s favorite tote: It’s made of the same durable nylon and fits everything you’ll need for a few days away.

Best canvas and twill duffel bags

Yolanda Edwards , founder of YOLO Journal travel magazine and the former creative director of Condé Nast Traveler , tells us people often stop to ask where her Paravel bag is from. While she has a (now out-of-stock) cherry-red weekender, we think this ivory one with black leather accents is equally striking. Plus, Edwards finds it very functional for flying. “It has a handy strap for slipping onto my suitcase handle, and if I’m lazy, even just the handles work for that.” She adds that “it stands up on its own, and I like how tall it is — although if you want to keep it under the seat in front of you on a flight, you do have to push it down.”

Another of Black’s favorites, this handsome duffel is water resistant and designed to fit in overhead compartments. As he says, “[It] will easily fit everything you need for a weekend of apple picking or skipping rocks on Long Island, without taking up too much space in a car or on a train.”

If you’re looking for a purchase you can feel good about, travel writer Jedidiah Jenkins recommends this weekender from Nisolo, which values fair trade and healthy working conditions for manufacturers. “They’re a really dope company that prioritizes ethical supply chains,” he says. In terms of functionality, Jenkins says the bag’s interior pockets help him keep his stuff organized, and its removable cross-body strap allows for hands-free carrying.

Best leather duffel bags

If you have the money to spare, this classy leather duffel also recommended by Black will probably last for a lifetime of traveling. “The bag is beautiful, functional (it’s carry-on appropriate and comes with a shoulder strap), lined with micro-suede, and has a U-shaped zippered entry to the main compartment for easy access,” he says. “You can get it monogrammed for an extra $10.”

Elyse Eisen, a travel blogger and the founder of the Chain Collective PR agency, loves this bright-blue bag that’s made in New York City by her friend and former client Alex Dabagh. “I really put all my bags to the test with the amount of travel I do, and I recently took this on a monthlong trip to Croatia, Montenegro, Italy, Istanbul, and Amman,” she says. Eisen likes that this duffel can be used as a carry-on when she flies and that it has a waterproof nylon lining for easy cleanup in the event of an unfortunate toiletry spill.

[Editor’s note: This bag is sold out of in blue, but you can still get it in black .]

Given the price points of our cool people’s favorite leather duffels, we felt it worth including this affordably priced one — which looks way more expensive than it actually is — for anyone who isn’t ready to drop nearly $1,000 on a weekender. Because the leather is soft and slouchy, the already nice-looking duffel will probably look even better with age.

Best wheeled duffel bag

A fully loaded duffel bag can be a heavy burden to bear, but a bag with wheels takes the weight off your shoulders. Ben Pundole, the founder and editor-in-chief of hotel review site A Hotel Life and the vice-president of brand experience at Edition Hotels , trusts his wheeled North Face duffel because it has lasted through years of frequent travel. “It’s my favorite because it’s indestructible,” he said. “Waterproof, durable, and most of all, dustproof.” For a North Face duffel without wheels, Black recommends the brand’s Base Camp duffel , which he says is up for anything. As he writes , “Get in line to climb Mount Everest or head to Amagansett — either way, you’re covered.”

The Strategist is designed to surface the most useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Some of our latest conquests include the best women’s jeans , rolling luggage , pillows for side sleepers , ultra-flattering pants , and bath towels . We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.

Every editorial product is independently selected. If you buy something through our links, New York may earn an affiliate commission.

• the strategist
• ask a cool person

Every product is independently selected by (obsessive) editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.

Deal of the Day

Micro sales, greatest hits, most viewed stories.

• All the Best Amazon Prime Day 2024 Deals to Shop Now
• The 45 Best Prime Day Deals, According to Our Writers
• The 16 Very Best Protein Powders
• The 73 Best Prime Day Fashion Deals
• The Best Prime Day Deals Under $25

Today’s Top Clicked

Advertiser Disclosure

Many of the credit card offers that appear on this site are from credit card companies from which we receive financial compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). However, the credit card information that we publish has been written and evaluated by experts who know these products inside out. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse. This site does not include all credit card companies or all available credit card offers that are on the market.  See our advertising policy here where we list advertisers that we work with, and how we make money. You can also review our  credit card rating methodology .

The 16 Best Travel Duffel Bags on the Market in 2024

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

814 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 63 U.S. States Visited: 9

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

38 Published Articles 3334 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 47 U.S. States Visited: 28

Table of Contents

Things to consider with travel duffel bags, the 12 best non-wheeled travel duffel bags, the 4 best wheeled duffel bags, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our  Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

Duffel bags are a great alternative to suitcases or backpacks and are designed to fit as much as you can comfortably carry.

Whether you’re looking for something small to carry on the plane, or a massive beast of a bag with wheels to pull behind you, there are plenty of great duffel bags to choose from.

A great duffel bag is one that has enough room for your clothing, enough extra pockets for your bits and pieces, and one that you’ll be able to carry, wear, or pull along with ease.

There are a number of qualities to consider before you buy your duffel bag.

Size and Capacity

If you’re planning on being airborne with your duffel, it’s pretty important that it meets the carry-on requirements of your airline . This way, you no longer have to worry about checking your bag into the hold, and you’ll always have your personal belongings within easy reach in the cabin.

Small duffel bags will offer between 25 to 50 liters of usable space, and most of them will meet the 22 x 14 x 9-inch specification for most major U.S. airlines. These smaller duffel bags are pretty useful for weekends away, solo travelers, and those who only like to pack the bare minimum.

If you think you need a little more space to carry your gear with you, consider a 50- to 75-liter capacity bag. Perfect for those who need more space for extra layers, but aren’t worried about carrying bulky equipment, most of these medium-sized duffel bags will need to be checked in when you fly.

For those who do need to take the kitchen sink with them, large duffel bags with a 75-liter or higher capacity are an excellent choice for adventurers who need to haul heavy loads as they go.

From tents to fishing gear, and everything in between, you can fit everything into these oversized duffel bags, but watch your weight as bags over 50 pounds may incur excess baggage fees .

Because not all duffel bags are equal, it means that some can weigh significantly more when empty than others. If weight is an issue for you when you travel, consider the following before you buy:

• Wheeled models will be heavier than non-wheeled duffels, with some weighing as much as 20% of your total 50-pound luggage allowance — even before you’ve started to fill it.
• Heavy duffel bags are exhausting to carry long distances or up and downstairs, so think about how easy it will be to walk with your duffel when you need to.

Wheels vs. No Wheels 

Wheeled duffel bags are much easier to lug around airports, and sling in and out of cars, boats, and trains. They usually have 1 main compartment that will hold your belongings with ease, making them the best-loved choice for those who need to take some serious sporting or camping equipment with them.

Duffel bags without wheels are also a strong contender for those looking to explore distant shores as they tend to be lighter to carry. Wheeled or rolling duffel bags can become unstable on rugged ground, causing your belongings to fall or spill. If you’re carrying it close to your person, this won’t happen.

Carry Options

The size of your duffel bag, how much it weighs, and how long you intend to be carrying it are all important considerations when it comes to choosing your new duffel bag.

Wear it like a backpack or carry it like a tote — there are options out there, and you should choose the one that best suits you.

• Backpack-style Straps — If you like to throw your bag on your back and do not need to access it regularly, many of the premium duffel bags on the market offer removable backpack straps that have some light padding to make them more comfortable than regular straps.
• Shoulder-style Straps — If you want easy access to your bag while you travel, and are only covering short distances, carry it using a shoulder strap. Lots of duffel bags come with shoulder straps that are removable.

Whether you choose a wheeled duffel, or one without, at some point, you’ll need to rely on a handle to make simple maneuvers with your bag.

Every type of duffel bag will come complete with a handle of one sort or another. Your duffel could come complete with either or both of the following:

• Carry Handles — This could be a simple padded handle that connects the backpack straps, a pair of dedicated handles like a handbag, or just a single carry handle. Any of these are useful for picking up your luggage and moving it from one place to another, as you’ll often need to do when you’re hot-footing it around the globe.
• Grab Handles — Located at either end of the bag, or somewhere on the sides, these handles sit loose to the surface and can be used to “grab” your bag quickly or slide it along. These are very useful if you’re loading your duffel in an overhead bin, or putting it in a taxi.

Access, Pockets, and Organization

Duffel bags are designed for adventures, and with that in mind, you’ll no doubt want to make sure that you can carry everything with you when you go.

Most duffel bags will offer plenty of useful internal storage pockets to keep smaller items safe in transit and make it easy to find them when you need to.

External pockets are useful for items that you’ll need while you travel, such as your passport, your cell phone, or your noise-canceling headphones . Different brands of duffel bags will have different sizes and types of internal compartments.

If you’re paying bigger bucks for your bag, you may even find that it comes with expandable external pockets that work well for keeping dirty clothing or footwear away from the rest of your luggage.

Alternatively, they may have separate compartments inside the bag itself.

While we’re on the subject, we should also talk about daisy chains, also called lash points.

If you’re planning on traveling via plane, train, or automobile, you might be wondering why on earth you would need to worry about such things, but stick your duffel on a roof rack, saddle it to a donkey, or take it just about anywhere else when you get there and you’ll see how vital they are.

Bottom Line: If you’re planning on taking your bag with you on exotic adventures, you’ll want a duffel with plenty of reinforced lash points to keep your luggage safe and secure.

Water Resistance

Being water-resistant doesn’t always mean waterproof , and you’ll do well to remember this while you travel. Duffel bags that are advertised as “water-resistant” are purely designed to keep your bag, and your belongings, protected from light rain and damp ground. If you throw your bag in the ocean, it won’t work miracles.

Usually made from durable, ripstop fabric, water-resistant duffel bags are treated with a DWR solution that will help to prevent the moisture from soaking in.

You should also be wary of zipper openings as these may be the weakest point on your duffel, and the place where the wet gets in if the weather is bad.

If you’re keen on water sports, you may want to seek out a top-of-the-range duffel that is made from fabric that offers better protection against actual torrents of water, but if you’re planning on sticking to dry land, water-resistant should be good enough for you.

Material and Durability

If you want a duffel, you’re no longer tied to stuffy old canvas ones.

Duffel bags are available in a wide range of materials, including ripstop nylon, leather , laminated nylon skins, and other water-resistant and durable materials that should stay in good shape, wherever you take them.

1. Bargain Duffel Bag for Long Weekends and Short Trips 

Canway 65 Liter Weekender Bag

Weight: 1.74 pounds

Dimensions: 26.3 x 13.7 x 12.2 inches

Rocking in at under $30, this is one of the most popular and capable duffel bags on the market today. Made from water- and tear-resistant 600D polyester, this duffel will take you anywhere you want to go.

You’ll have no trouble stashing all your gear in here as there’s plenty of space. The main compartment is great for all your usual clothing and gear, but there are hidden extras that will make you grin with delight.

The shoe pouch, for example, is perfect for keeping smelly sneakers or wet flip-flops away from the rest of your gear, while the multiple pockets will keep your passport , travel documents, and anything else you hold dear, safe and sound on the go.

For easy transportation, the bag can be slipped over the luggage handle of a suitcase and a TSA lock can be used with the double zippers, keeping your gear safe.

What We Like

• Can be folded up and zipped away for storage

What We Don’t Like

• No solid base to give the bag structure

2. The Classic Adventure Duffel

Patagonia Black Hole Duffel Bag 40 Liter

Weight: 2.8 pounds

Dimensions: 21 x 13.7 x 10.6 inches

Made from a burly polyester ripstop material and covered with a highly weather-resistant TPU laminate and DWR finish , this is one heck of a duffel that will stand up to almost anything. A “black hole” of a bag, you’ll easily be able to fit everything you need in there for a long weekend, and is the perfect size for a carry-on.

The main compartment has a large opening that makes for easy packing, while the zippered side pocket is perfect for super-fast access to essential items like your phone, wallet , or boarding pass.

The 40-liter capacity is big enough for a fun-filled weekend or a longer adventure, and when it’s empty, it simply folds into its own pocket for easy storage.

Lightweight and incredibly durable, the Black Hole Duffel has removable, padded shoulder straps that keep it comfortable while you walk with it, and the reinforced haul handles make it super easy to grab quickly. Internal compression straps ensure that your luggage stays in one place during transit.

A black hole worthy of exploring, this duffel is an all-weather vessel for every type of travel.

• Made from 100% recycled fabric
• Not particularly heavy duty

3. Spacious and Capable Duffel Bag From Osprey

• Osprey Packs Transporter 40 Expedition Duffel

Weight: 2.5 pounds

Dimensions: 21.6 x 14.57 x 1 inches

The Transporter from Osprey is available in 4 different sizes: 40L, 65L, 95L, and 120L. In this article, we’re concentrating on the 40L version.

Compact on the outside, but incredibly roomy on the inside, this Tardis-like duffel bag doubles as a backpack with its yoked shoulder harness.

Sling it over your back for long walks and adventures, then tuck that strap back in its very own storage pocket when you no longer need it. It’s clever additions like this that are synonymous with the Osprey brand and ones that many travelers love and actively look for.

Made from tough 0.2-millimeter, TPU-laminated, 800D nylon, this beauty is weather-resistant and incredibly capable of withstanding the roughest of journeys.

The zippers have easy-to-grab zip pulls for fast access on the go, and the main compartment has a smooth, lockable U-zip to keep your belongings safe. For those little extras that you need in transit, there are dual-zippered, 3D end pockets with overlapping rain flaps — perfect for stashing your phone, passport, or wallet.

Made by one of the best in the business, the Transporter is well worth its top price tag and is the kind of duffel bag that will last through many adventures.

• Can be carried like a backpack or messenger bag
• No compression straps

4. The Truly Waterproof Duffel Bag 

YETI Panga Airtight, Waterproof, and Submersible Bag

Weight: 5.14 pounds

Dimensions: 23.5 x 14 x 10 inches

From the makers of possibly the very best coolers ever made comes this supercool duffel bag that’s designed to protect your belongings from virtually anything.

The Panga comes in 50-, 75-, and 100-liter versions, but in this article, we’ll be looking at the smallest of the bunch — the 50L. Claiming to be a “100% dry duffel,” your gear should remain bone-dry no matter how wet the weather gets.

Made with a unique Hydrolock zipper and a U-dock terminal to create an airtight seal, you should never have to worry about getting wet with this beauty — perfect for adventurers who love water sports.

The thick-skin shell is made from high-density, high-quality nylon and thick TPU laminate, making it both puncture and abrasion resistant and perfectly able to withstand the bumps and knocks of international travel.

The 50-liter volume means you have plenty of space to pack everything you need for your next adventure, and there are 2 side pockets that are great for easy access to everyday essentials like your cell phone, passport, or wallet.

While designed to fit in an overhead airplane bin, we would stress that the rigid design of this duffel is both its saving grace and the biggest downside. You may struggle to squeeze it in if it’s fully loaded.

If you’re happy to take the risk of a potential baggage check situation, this is indeed one of the most awesome duffel bags on the market today. Waterproof, resilient, and a great investment that should last you forever.

• Waterproof material and zippers
• Not enough pockets to easily locate smaller items

5. Perfect for Long-term Traveling

The North Face Base Camp Duffel 95L

Weight: 4.05 pounds

Dimensions: 15.8 x 27.6 x 15.8 inches

This behemoth of a duffel from the big brand The North Face is plenty big enough to fit everything you need on your next adventure, and then some!

Available in a variety of sizes including 31L, 50L, 71L, 95L, 132L, and 150L, we’re focusing on the massive 95-liter model. Made from highly durable 1000D, phthalate-free, TPE fabric laminate and 840D junior ballistic nylon, this bag should last you for many years to come.

The main compartment is sizable and easy to secure using the D-zip opening with its weather-resistant zipper flap, while the internal mesh pocket will keep small things safe from sliding around during transit.

Full of useful additions that you’d expect from a brand that knows its globetrotting audience, there’s an end-cap zippered compartment that allows you to separate wet clothes or dirty shoes. There’s also a zip mesh storage bag that acts as a packing cube .

When it comes to carrying your life on your back, the detachable and adjustable, alpine-cut shoulder straps offer a perfect fit and allow you to carry your duffel backpack-style. The 4 compression straps will keep it tightly packed, and the water-resistant material should mean you’re good to go, no matter the weather.

Too big for overhead bins, this is one duffel that will have to be checked in. But, its size is great for anyone planning on long-term travel.

• D-opening for easy access to the main compartment
• Backpack straps could be more padded

6. The Business Travel Duffel

NEWHEY Garment Duffel Bag, 55L

Weight: 3.2 pounds

Dimensions: 22 x 12.2 x 12.6 inches

If you’re a high-powered professional who needs to travel a lot with your work, this duffel bag could be just the ticket. That said, you could also use it for weekend breaks, family vacations, and a whole host of other adventures.

Made from rugged, high-quality polyester and featuring strong, YKK zippers, this is a bargain of a bag that will suit many applications. A heady blend of form and function, this garment duffel bag will keep your suit crease-free while looking every bit as stylish as you do.

The design of this duffel enables you to pack your clothes flat, using the fixed hanger and tie pockets, before rolling it up to become a compact bag that should fit in most overhead cabin lockers. There’s also a handy compartment for keeping your phone, wallet, and passport safe, and a separate pouch for shoes and dirty clothing.

The interior buckle system holds your clothes in place while you travel, helping to keep them in tip-top condition for when you arrive at your destination.

• Fits a lot of clothing
• Quite heavy for a garment bag

7. The Ultra Lightweight Duffel Bag

• Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler Duffel, 60L

Weight: 2.25 pounds

Dimensions: 26.75 x 10.25 x 13.5 inches

Another big bag from one of the bigger brands in adventure travel, this Eagle Creek ultralight duffel weighs a mere 2 pound 4 ounces but can hold a whopping 60 liters of gear. If that’s not the right size for you, the Cargo duffel also comes in 40-, and 90-liter versions.

Made from water-repellent Bi-Tech Armor Lite fabric, this duffel is designed for (nearly) all-weather, and the bartack reinforcements on the stress points ensure it keeps its strength no matter how full you fill it.

If you can’t decide how to carry your bag, this one gives you 3 different options. Either carry it using the removable backpack straps, padded top haul handles, or the side grab handle. There are also 6 incredibly useful lash points that can be used to secure the bag to a car’s roof rack, a camel, or any other unusual modes of transport.

Made up of 1 large compartment and 2 easily accessible end pouches, the U-shaped lid is easy to open, and when you’re not using it, the smart pack can compress into itself for easy carrying!

Perfect for camping trips, plane journeys, and even road trips , this is a little (big) bag that weighs next to nothing.

• Can be carried 3 different ways
• Backpack straps could be more durable

8. Lightweight Duffel That’s Roomy Enough for Any Traveler

Marmot Long Hauler Travel Duffel Bag

Weight: 2.4 pounds

Dimensions: 60 x 33 x 30.5 inches

Available in a choice of 4 sizes (S, M, L, and XL), it’s the medium bag we’re reviewing in this article. This duffel bag is made from 1000D 100% polyester with TPE laminate, making it superstrong and able to withstand the bumps and knocks of domestic or international adventures.

The lining is wipeable nylon, which is great for internal leaks , while the bag is reinforced with 100% ballistic nylon for extra strength wherever you’re headed.

Ideal for an overnight bag, a checked bag, or even for the gym, this duffel has a D-shaped main zipper opening for easy access and haul loops on both ends to make it easy to lift. The double bottom ensures its durability, and the tough YKK zippers will hold their own after many, many uses.

The main compartment is plenty big enough to carry your clothes and belongings for big trips, and the zippered end pockets are easily accessible, making them perfect for stowing your passport, keys, cell phone, and wallet.

There’s also a removable shoulder strap that converts to carrying handles, giving you multiple carrying options when you need them.

This bag may not set the world of luggage alight, but it’s a nicely-priced, secure, and durable duffel bag made by a brand that’s synonymous with high-quality travel bags and accessories. An investment well made, the Marmot medium duffel bag is a good-size bag for most occasions.

• Has a mesh pocket for dirty clothing
• Handles get in the way of the main compartment opening

9. A Large Duffel Perfect for Expeditions

Thule Chasm Duffel Bag

Weight: 2.86 pounds

Dimensions: 22 x 13 x 10 inches

The Thule Chasm Duffel bag comes in a choice of 2 different sizes (40 and 70 liters), but in this article, we’re looking at the sizable yet easy-to-carry 70-liter option.

Made from phthalate-free TPE laminate with a 1000D nylon base, this duffel is durable, water-resistant, and offers exceptional tear resistance. The bag also comes in an array of attractive colors. The Bluegrass option is perfect for sticking out in a crowd.

Because carrying your luggage is important, Thule has included removable backpack straps that make lugging your bag over long distances as easy as pie. When you get there, remove the backpack straps, and revert to using the duffel strap as usual.

The oversized, wide mouth opening is perfect for easy access to your belongings, and the external compression straps are designed to prevent your belongings from getting squashed up at the bottom when you carry it in backpack mode.

On the inside, there are also internal mesh pockets for keeping smaller items safe and a lockable, zippered side pocket for keeping small items secure and within reach while you travel.

• Removable shoulder straps
• Not overly comfortable carrying as a heavy backpack

11. Bargain Bag for Those Who Want Something a Little Different

• Plambag Canvas Duffle Bag for Travel

Dimensions: 20.8 x 9.8 x 11.8 inches

This is a stylish and almost retro-looking duffel bag that’s well-suited to the traveler about town. Made from high-density, 16-ounce, 100% cotton canvas, and featuring classical bronze-tone hardware, this bag is as stylish as it is practical.

With a 50-liter capacity, the large main compartment can easily hold your clothes, shoes, and toiletries, as well as a 15-inch laptop or large iPad. The inner zipper pocket is perfect for smaller items, and the 2 side and front pockets, as well as 1 on the back, means you have plenty of space for everything you need speedy access to.

If you need even more space, there are 2 zippers on each side of this little duffel that will expand the capacity of the bag  and give you more room to carry your gear. The bottom of the bag is well cushioned and has a hard film protector to help keep your belongings dry and safe on dirty or damp floors.

Compact and easy to carry, this is a great overnight or weekend bag that has nicely padded handles and an adjustable and removable shoulder strap. Probably not ideal for around-the-world adventures, this is a capable duffel designed with style and practicality in mind.

• Lots of pockets to stay organized
• Zippers can get stuck

12. This Vintage Leather Duffel Shouts Sophistication

KPL 21 Inch Vintage Leather Duffel

Weight: 4.2 pounds

Dimensions: 21 x 9 x 11 inches

This vintage-style leather duffel bag is a real classic. Made from genuine, full-grain leather, the rich natural patina of this bag will change over time, ensuring that it always stands out from the crowd.

This beautiful bag will be just as home in a first class cabin as it would be out in the wild. Carrying a bag like this makes a real statement.

With 1 large compartment that will hold your clothes, shoes, and toiletries, you can keep the remaining 2 side zipper pockets free for items you need instant access to, such as your passport, cell phone, or wallet. The interior is also fully lined with canvas, giving more practicality and a high-end feel.

The front, satchel-style pocket adds interest and is in keeping with the vintage look of the bag, while the adjustable carry strap is well-padded and can be removed when not in use.

Want to carry it instead? This bag also comes with 2 sturdy, leather handles that will feel awesome in your hands as you carry your gear from plane to hotel and back again.

• Has a detachable shoulder strap
• The top compartment opening is quite restrictive

1. A Rolling Duffel That Can Handle Anything You Throw at It

Eagle Creek Travel Gear No Matter What Flashpoint Rolling Duffel XL

Weight: 4.19 pounds

Dimensions: 35.8 x 15 x 14.2 inches

Really, “no matter what” your adventures throw at it, this bag can handle almost everything! With a capacity of 128 liters, this duffel is big enough to cope with all of your gear while you travel.

Made from tough Bi-Tech fabric, it offers abrasion resistance and weatherproof capabilities, while the super-tough webbing and seam reinforcements mean your bag won’t fall apart when you fill it up.

If you find it too big to carry comfortably for more than a moment, you’ll be delighted to hear that this beauty comes with oversized, heavy-duty, treaded wheels for smooth mobility and maximum durability .

You’ll be able to easily maneuver it through airports, hotels, and business centers, while it will still be able to handle rough terrain like a boss.

If you need to carry it for longer distances, the adjustable and removable shoulder straps allow you to use it as a backpack. Or, you can use the center haul handle for rolling long distances and the side grab handles when loading it onto transportation.

The main compartment is easily accessible and plenty big enough to carry your clothing and equipment, while the front zipper pocket is ideal for storing quick-access items like your headphones , cell phone, and book.  

• Bright and easy to spot on the carousel
• Can be difficult to roll when heavy

2. Affordable Wheeled Duffel From Amazon Basics

Amazon Basics Ripstop Wheeled Duffel

Weight: 11.9 pounds

Dimensions: 37.5 x 18.25 x 16 inches

Another great bag from the Amazon Basics luggage range , this ripstop wheeled duffel comes in 26-, 30-, and 35-inch variations. They’re also available in multiple colors, such as black, blue, or red. Here we’ll look at the larger 35-inch version.

Its durable design makes this an affordable, yet practical option for anyone heading off on a vacation or adventure. With a 100% polyester top to protect against moisture in the air, and sides and a base made from 1680D ripstop nylon and 210D lining, this bag is strong and well-made for the price.

Because Amazon Basics understand that you want to take as much away with you as you possibly can, it has incorporated zippered front and main compartments for easy organizing and secure storage on the go.

The top portion is deep, and the opening is wide, making it easy to pack while the end pockets are perfect for stowing your passport, cell phone, wallet, keys, or anything else you need easy access to.

When it comes to moving your gear around, the upright, telescopic handle and inline wheels ensure easy mobility over smoother terrain and will cope (just about) with more rough roads on location.

Perhaps not as good as some of the more expensive rolled duffel bags, this is a good bet for the budget-conscious traveler.

• Comes with a 1-year warranty
• Can topple over if front-heavy

3. A Capable Rolling Duffel That Expands for More Space

Travelpro Bold 30″ Drop Bottom Rolling Duffel

Weight: 10.9 pounds

Dimensions: 30 x 17 x 16.5 inches

The largest rolling duffel bag in the Travelpro range , this drop-bottom bag is big enough to carry tons of stuff and easy enough to roll around the globe.

Made from rugged, high-density 100% polyester fabric, this duffel has a water-resistant coating to keep your belongings safe and dry wherever you may be. This duffel also comes with a “Built For A Lifetime Limited Warranty.”

Inside, the zippered divider panel allows for 2 separate packing spaces or 1 large packing compartment, depending on your needs, and the adjustable, hold-down straps will keep everything in place while you’re on the move.

Need more space? No problem. This duffel comes with a 2-inch expansion capability for additional packing capacity and a large zippered wet pocket for damp or dirty items.

The high-performance ball-bearing wheels are built for high-mileage travel, and the silky-smooth, ball-bearing, inline skate wheels make this duffel a pleasure to pull along with you.

The aircraft-grade aluminum handle system makes it incredibly comfortable to find the right height for your needs, and the compression straps will keep the duffel neatly pulled together.

• Can be packed as 1 large compartment or as 2 separate spaces
• Very easy to exceed airline baggage weight limits

4. Top of the Range Rolling Duffel With High-end Extras

Thule Crossover Rolling Duffel Pack

Weight: 9.47 pounds

Dimensions: 17.3 x 16.5 x 31.1 inches

This top-of-the-range Thule duffel bag is an all-singing, all-dancing kind of bag that will accommodate everything you need and more on your next adventure. With an 87-liter capacity and a wide, unobstructed mouth for easy loading, this is one of the best, wheeled duffel bags your money can buy!

The durable exoskeleton and the molded polypropylene back panel are designed to withstand rough terrain and absorb the impact of rugged travel. The durable, oversized wheels make for smooth rolling, and the patented Thule V-Tubing telescoping handles guarantee a steady and straight pull that’s a pleasure to roll along behind you.

The main compartment is as big as they come and can comfortably house all of your clothing and travel gear, while the divider allows you to keep your dirty gear separate from your clean stuff.

The heat-molded, crush-proof SafeZone is a revelation that allows you to protect your eyewear, portable electronics, and other fragile gear on the go. This is a handy feature for anyone who wants to take expensive gear with them while they travel. This compartment can also be locked and removed to keep your stuff safe.

A very impressive duffel bag, with a price tag to match, this is an investment item for those who want to up their duffel bag game.

• Durable and smooth-rolling wheels
• The telescopic handle is a bit short for taller people

For every journey, there’s the perfect duffel. While wheels or no wheels will always be a great debate, whatever camp you’re in, you’ll find something to suit your travel needs. With so many great duffel bag manufacturers out there, such as The North Face, Patagonia, Marmot, Osprey, and Eagle Creek, you’re spoiled for choice!

Like this review? We’ve got more! Check out these other articles on the best-of-the-best travel products on the market:

• The Best Checked Luggage Bags for Any Traveler
• The Best Carry-on Luggage Bags for Any Traveler
• The Best Laptop Backpacks To Buy for Travel
• The Best Travel Toiletry Bags for Men and Women
• All Our Best Travel Product Reviews – In One Place

Frequently Asked Questions

What size duffel bag can i carry on a plane.

Duffel bags, like any type of carry-on luggage, will have to meet the luggage size restrictions set out by the airline you are flying with. These can differ from each airline, but 22 x 14 x 9-inch luggage is a fairly common restriction. Please check with your airline before you fly.

What are the best duffel bags?

Whether you’re looking for something small to carry on the plane, or a massive beast of a bag with wheels to pull behind you, there are plenty of great duffel bags to choose from. These are some of our top picks:

• Patagonia Black Hole 40 Liter Duffel
• The North Face Base Camp Duffel

Are duffel bags good for traveling?

Duffel bags are a great alternative to suitcases or backpacks and are designed to fit as much as you can comfortably carry. A great duffel bag is one that has enough room for your clothing, enough extra pockets for your bits and pieces, and one that you’ll be able to carry, wear, or pull along with ease.

How do I choose a duffel bag?

There are a number of qualities to consider before you buy your duffel bag:

• Size and capacity
• Wheels vs. no wheels
• Carry options
• Access, pockets, and organization
• Water resistance
• Material and durability

Was this page helpful?

About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

Discover the exact steps we use to get into  1,400+ airport lounges worldwide, for free   (even if you’re flying economy!) .

We respect your privacy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA. Google's  privacy policy  and  terms of service  apply.

Related Posts

UP's Bonus Valuation

This bonus value is an estimated valuation  calculated by UP after analyzing redemption options, transfer partners, award availability and how much UP would pay to buy these points.

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

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!

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

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
• 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
• Nemo Double Haul Convertible – Best Packable Duffel

Osprey Transporter Expedition Duffel

• Price: > $160
• > Stowable padded backpack straps
• > Rain flaps

Nomatic Travel Bag

• Price: > $289.99
• > Highly-functional backpack with a duffel mode
• > Durable and modern traveler equipped

Monarc Setra Duffel Backpack

• Price: > $175
• > Carry on Compliant
• > Made from recycled bottles

REI Co-op Big Haul Recycled Rolling Duffel – 30

• Price: > $279
• > Integrated wheels
• > Large for longer trips

Patagonia Black Hole Duffle

• Price: > $159
• > Backpack handles and grab handles
• > Nice and light

Kodiak 60l Weekender

• Price: > $459
• > High quality leather
• > Roomy and spacious

Under Armour Women’s UA Motivator Duffle Sport Bag

• Price: > $42
• > Lightweight
• > Water Resistant

UNIQUEBELLA Suit Travel Duffel

• Price: > $65.99
• > 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

• Price: > $194.25
• > Compact and 28L
• > Tons of organizational pockets

NEMO Double Haul Convertible

• Price: > $180
• > Comes with Tote Back!
• > Durable and Packable

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.

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!

Do You Want to Travel FOREVER??

Pop your email in below to get a FREE copy of ‘How to Travel the World on $10 a Day!’.

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 – Nemo Double Haul Convertible

The quite possibly bomb-proof Double Haul is a highly versatile combination of a packable duffel bag and tote bag, designed to meet an adventurer’s changing needs. Its huge opening remains wide for easy packing and folds into a duffel for long journeys, complete with self-contained backpack straps. For  some extra capacity and organisation, you can deploy the tucked-away tote bag handles when you need to haul more.

Certified as a bluesign product, the badass Double Haul is fully made from recycled materials. The bag features side release buckles for easy transformation from duffel to tote, stiffened trusses for structure, and internal and external zippered mesh pockets for organisation. A matching carrying case, doubling as a packing cube, is also included.

• Trusted brand
• Comes with a tote bag
• Shiny exterior
• Doesn’t have a rigid structure

How The Gregory Alpaca Duffel Tested

I got my hands on the 70 Litre version (30L and 55L are also available). It feels rugged and resilient, packs down into a neat cube with no trouble and holds a nice amount of gear.

My only real criticisms are the bright colours (too much for me) and the question of how much I really need a packable duffel and whether one would ever get enough use out of it to justify the price tag.

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

Our GREATEST Travel Secrets…

Pop your email here & get the original Broke Backpacker Bible for FREE.

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 .

Made it this far? You get 15% OFF to book a place to stay ! Offer valid exclusively for Broke Backpackers 😉

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.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

Protect Your Trip »

10 top-rated duffel bags in every style: rolling, backpack & more.

Find the best duffel bag for your travel style.

The 10 Best Travel Duffel Bags

Getty Images

Duffel bags can be used for a wide variety of activities and trips, making them an ideal piece of luggage for travelers.

While duffel bags are convenient for quick travels such as overnight business trips and weekend getaways with your partner , many are big enough for a week or two away. Of course, duffel bags are also convenient for everyday use at the gym, kids' sporting events and the like.

U.S. News compiled this list of the best travel duffel bags based on consumer recommendations. Read on to find the best duffel bag for your travel needs as well as answers to common questions about this type of suitcase.

• Best Overall Travel Duffel Bag:  Patagonia Black Hole Duffel Bag 55L
• Best Duffel Bag for Men:  Thule Chasm

Best Women's Duffel Bag: Vera Bradley Large Travel Duffel Bag

• Best Rolling Duffel Bag:  The North Face Rolling Thunder – 22" Roller
• Best Carry-on Duffel Bag:   Away The Everywhere Bag
• Best Waterproof Duffel Bag:  YETI Panga 50L Waterproof Duffel
• Best Duffel Bag Backpack:  REI Co-op Big Haul 40 Recycled Duffel

Best Small Duffel Bag: Dagne Dover Landon Carryall Bag

Best large duffel bag: l.l. bean adventure duffle, extra-large.

• Best Packable Duffel Bag: Gonex Packable Travel Duffle Bag  

(Note: Prices and availability were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to supply chain issues.)

Best Overall Travel Duffel Bag: Patagonia Black Hole Duffel Bag 55L

Courtesy of Patagonia

Highly rated by travelers, the Patagonia Black Hole Duffel Bag 55L weighs less than 3 pounds, has a 55-liter capacity and is made from 100% recycled polyester ripstop fabric. The weather-resistant bag has a convenient open main compartment with a top zipper and padded base; it features a zippered side pocket accessible from the inside or outside. This product also has padded, detachable shoulder straps that allow it to convert into a backpack .

Reviewers comment that the bag's size is perfect for weekend or weeklong trips, with many calling it the best travel bag on the market. Because it's so popular, this travel duffel bag tends to sell out, but Patagonia and other retailers typically restock it and allow interested buyers to sign up for waitlists. The Black Hole line also includes a smaller 40-liter size and two larger bags – with a capacity of 70 liters and 100 liters – for extended vacations or camping trips .

Price: $169 or less. Shop now: Patagonia | REI | Backcountry

Best Duffel Bag for Men: Thule Chasm

Courtesy of Thule

The Thule Chasm is rugged enough for the woods, yet sleek enough for the office. Available in four trendy colors (think olive green and burnt orange), the weather-resistant bag can be used as a duffel or carried as a backpack and features plenty of interior organization.

The Thule Chasm duffel is available in four sizes – 40, 70, 90 and 130 liters – to suit your travel needs and, regardless of size, can expand with the use of its external compression straps. Recent buyers say this travel duffel bag is good for everything from road trips to the overhead bin; they also appreciate how easy it is to store the bag (in an accompanying case) when not in use.

Price for 130L: $179.95 or less. Shop now: Thule

Courtesy of Vera Bradley

With thousands of five-star reviews, Vera Bradley's Large Travel Duffel Bag remains a tried-and-true duffel bag for women. The soft, 50-liter bag is available in black or navy microfiber (for those who aren't keen on the traditional paisley patterns ) and even more solid colors in recycled cotton . This women's duffel bag comes with a detachable padded shoulder strap, one zippered and three open side pockets, and a zippered closure. Inside, three mesh pockets keep small items like cosmetics and jewelry organized and easily accessible.

The bag is also machine-washable in cold water using a gentle cycle, and it conveniently folds flat for storage. What's more, you can personalize your duffel with a monogram or whimsical design.

Price: $140 or less. Shop now: Vera Bradley | Amazon

Read: The Top Weekender Bags for Women

Best Rolling Duffel Bag: The North Face Rolling Thunder – 22" Roller

Courtesy of The North Face

This 40-liter-capacity bag weighs less than 8 pounds and is the perfect rolling duffel bag for travelers who don't feel like lugging anything over their shoulder. Its design features larger wheels and wheel wells for better traction, as well as a strengthened handle and back panel. Reviews of this rolling duffel bag say it's sturdier than a traditional duffel and mention that the bag rolls smoothly.

The North Face's durable Base Camp material combined with nylon makes this product suitable for rougher wear and tear; plastic bumpers on the wear points also help protect the fabric. There's an interior mesh pocket, two zippered pockets outside, and an additional external compartment for wet or dirty items or clothes. It's available in black and military olive/black, as well as larger (30- or 36-liter) sizes .

Price: $270 or less. Shop now: The North Face

Read: The Top Rolling Duffel Bags

Best Carry-on Duffel Bag: Away The Everywhere Bag

Courtesy of Away

There couldn't be a more fitting name for this bag that is, indeed, perfect for going everywhere. With a 20-liter capacity and weighing less than 3 pounds, The Everywhere Bag by Away is ideal to use as a carry-on duffel bag or personal item (it fits under the seat) for air travel. This product is also convenient for overnight visits and weekend getaways – or longer, depending how you pack. Its sleek design makes it a nice bag to tote to the office, too.

This carry-on duffel bag can store all of your necessary in-flight items with a 15-inch laptop pocket, zippered and slip pockets inside, and an open interior that will accommodate a comfy wrap or travel pillow . It's designed with a trolley sleeve to fit over the handle of another carry-on bag or checked luggage, and it also has an adjustable and removable shoulder strap. The water-resistant nylon travel bag is available in several colors with leather trim. Fans of the bag remark that it's sleek, timeless and very spacious. If you're looking for more room, however, upgrade to The Medium Everywhere Bag or The Large Everywhere Bag .

Price: $195 or less. Shop now: Away

Read: The Top Carry-on Backpacks

Best Waterproof Duffel Bag: YETI Panga 50L Waterproof Duffel

Courtesy of YETI

This fully submersible duffel will be your go-to bag whether you're planning a big offshore fishing trip, heading to Antarctica or camping in a rainforest during your next adventure. No matter how wet you get – on the boat or on land – buyers say your gear will stay 100% dry thanks to the bag's waterproof molded landing pad, laminated high-density nylon and HydroLok Zipper. The 50-liter YETI bag, weighing in at about 5 pounds, also features lash points for carrying options. It's available in storm gray and tan, as well as larger sizes: 75-liter or 100-liter .

Price: $300 or less. Shop now: Amazon | YETI | DICK'S Sporting Goods

Best Duffel Bag Backpack: REI Co-op Big Haul 40 Recycled Duffel

Courtesy of REI

This versatile bag is made of durable recycled ripstop nylon and features an even more rugged recycled ballistic nylon base. It's large enough to accommodate belongings for a trip of several days. Recent buyers mention that they like the classic design and use the REI Co-op Big Haul duffel as both a gym bag and a work tote. Carry this bag as a duffel or use the stowable back straps to convert it to a backpack. The lightweight travel duffel bag weighs approximately 2 pounds and comes in four colors.

Price: $109 or less. Shop now: REI

Courtesy of Dagne Dover

While this small duffel bag comes in a variety of sizes, the medium, large or extra-large sizes of the Landon Carryall Bag by Dagne Dover are most ideal for overnights and weekend escapes . The compact design makes it easy to store this 100% vegan bag in the overhead bin or even under the seat on the plane. The bag also features a neoprene trolley sleeve so you can easily plop it on top of other luggage.

Other features include a laptop sleeve (sizes vary by bag), interior and exterior pockets for essentials such as your passport holder and phone, a dust bag for shoes , and a leash for keys. Buyers appreciate all the features of this bag, especially its versatility for travel and everyday use.

Price for XL: $245 or less. Shop now: Dagne Dover

If you're looking for a big bag to hold a few weeks' worth of clothing (and then some), the L.L. Bean Adventure Duffle might be your newest travel companion. The extra-large size measures 17 x 34 x 15 inches and has a 139-liter capacity – versus the small, 19-liter version, which is 9 x 18 x 9 – and features comfortable hand and shoulder straps plus an exterior zippered pocket. It's also waterproof.

Reviewers say this travel duffel bag is so big that they've been able to pack their entire family's belongings in it and have also used it for monthlong trips; some even note that the bag has lasted decades. This duffel bag comes in a variety of colors, and monogramming is available for an additional fee. If you're looking for a large duffel bag with wheels, check out the Extra-Large Adventure Rolling Duffle Bag by L.L. Bean .

Price: $89.95 or less. Shop now: L.L. Bean

Best Packable Duffel Bag: Gonex Packable Travel Duffle Bag

If you're looking for a foldable duffel bag that you can put in your checked luggage and fill with souvenirs you acquire on your trip (or even just dirty laundry), check out the Gonex Packable Travel Duffle Bag. The duffel bag can be neatly folded and packed into an included pouch for easy storage on the go and at home. This thin yet tough bag features external zippered pockets, a detachable shoulder strap and a compartment for shoes, making it a good everyday duffel bag as well.

Reviewers agree you can't beat the value of this Gonex bag, which is available in 40-, 60- and 80-liter sizes.

Price for 80L: $44.99 or less. Shop now: Amazon

Frequently Asked Questions

The duffel bag is a piece of oblong luggage typically carried over the shoulder and used for short trips. It's often used as a catchall for sports gear as well – think dance class, tennis practice, etc. Invented in the town of Duffel in Flanders, Belgium , in the 17th century and made of a woven cloth later known as canvas, duffel luggage has since evolved to incorporate a variety of materials and features including wheels and backpack straps. Duffel bags also come in many shapes and sizes, including small, stylish options known as weekender bags .

Yes, you can carry your duffel bag on to the plane provided it meets airline carry-on size restrictions and can fit in the overhead bin.

Yes, you can check a duffel bag as long as it meets weight restrictions for checked baggage . Check your airline's rules ahead of your trip.

Unless your duffel bag can meet airline size restrictions for personal items and fit under the seat, it will count toward your carry-on allowance and you'll need to store it in the overhead bin or check it (for free) at the gate. If you're looking for a duffel bag that fits under the seat, The Everywhere Bag by Away and Dagne Dover Landon Carryall Bag are both good options.

You can buy duffel bags through sporting outfitters (online or in store), luggage retailers and, of course, Amazon.

When choosing the best duffel bag for your needs, travel experts recommend taking these features into consideration:

• Ease of transport:  Some duffel bags can be clunky and heavy. That's why Andrew Zimmern, the host of Magnolia Network series "Family Dinner" and goodwill ambassador to the United Nations' World Food Programme, prefers a duffel bag with wheels . "I'm an adventure traveler and am often in several environments and ecosystems on just one trip," he says. "I like a rolling duffel bag to easily navigate airports, sidewalks and curbs."
• Organization:  Zimmern says it's also nice to have adjustable interior panels that keep gear organized. "I appreciate that once it's organized, it's secure, and it stays consolidated within the customized 'bins' inside my bag." And external compartments are just as important. "I also prefer a bag that has external pockets so I can easily access aspirin or headphones if I've packed just the one bag," he adds.
• Size:  Samantha Brown, host and creator of PBS series "Samantha Brown's Places to Love," has a list of features she looks for in the perfect duffel bag. "I prefer a duffel to be personal item-size so I can always pair it with my carry-on bag. I especially am looking for a trolley sleeve on the back to connect it to my luggage, which is a rare feature to find."
• Style:  "For me, a duffel needs to have handles as well as an adjustable luggage strap. It also needs to have some structure to it. My pet peeve is an amorphous bag that collapses as you are  trying to pack , unpack or find things," Brown says.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Soft-sided Luggage
• The Top Airline-Approved Pet Carriers
• The Top Camping Tents
• The Top Sleeping Bags
• The Top Packable Jackets

Tags: Travel , Travel Gear

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

The best aquariums in the u.s..

Sharael Kolberg and Rachael Hood July 16, 2024

Amazon Prime Day Luggage Deals

Amanda Norcross July 16, 2024

Essentials to Pack for a Cruise

Gwen Pratesi and Amanda Norcross July 16, 2024

Vacation Packing List

Rachael Hood July 12, 2024

Top Things to Do in Las Vegas With Kids

Holly Johnson and Amanda Norcross July 12, 2024

Top Christmas Cruises

Gwen Pratesi July 11, 2024

Top African Safari Vacations

Christine Smith and Timothy J. Forster July 9, 2024

The 5 Best Memphis Tours

Gwen Pratesi July 8, 2024

The Best Fanny Packs and Belt Bags

Marisa Méndez July 3, 2024

Top Things to Do in Montana

Ben Luthi and Kelsey J. Lawrence July 3, 2024

• All Wellness
• All Skin Care
• Moisturizers
• Mineral Sunscreens
• Sunscreens for Kids
• Sunscreens for Dark Skin
• SPF Lip Balms
• Under Eye Patches
• All Hair Care
• Purple Shampoos
• Thinning Hair
• Head Shavers
• Hair Dryers
• All Oral Care
• Electric Toothbrushes
• Toothpastes
• Mouthwashes
• Water Flossers
• Meal Kit Delivery
• Gluten-Free Meal Kit Delivery
• Disposable Face Masks
• Air Purifiers
• Eco-Friendly Laundry Detergents
• Natural Deodorants
• Period Underwear
• All Fitness
• Exercise Bikes
• Walking Shoes
• Fitness Trackers
• Reusable Water Bottles
• Blackout Curtains
• Sound Machines
• Home & Kitchen
• All Home & Kitchen
• Kitchen Appliances & Tools
• All Kitchen Appliances & Tools
• Coffee Makers
• Kitchen Gadgets
• Small Home Appliances
• All Small Home Appliances
• Air Conditioners
• Space Heaters
• Humidifiers
• Bedding & Bath
• All Bedding & Bath
• Bath Towels
• Silk Pillowcases
• Duvet Inserts
• Office Chairs
• Standing Desks
• Desk Organizers
• Seat Cushions
• Under Desk Ellipticals
• All Outdoor
• Raised Garden Boxes
• Garden Hoses
• Beach Towels
• Solar Pool Covers
• Grilling Accessories
• Electronics
• All Electronics
• Wifi Routers
• Gaming Consoles
• Streaming Devices
• Instant Cameras
• Handheld Gaming Consoles
• 3D Printers
• All Headphones
• Noise Canceling
• Wireless Earbuds
• Smart Gadgets
• All Smart Gadgets
• Smart Watches
• Smart Bulbs
• Garage Door Openers
• All Computers
• Gaming Laptops
• Laptops for College Students
• Computer Monitors
• Ergonomic Keyboards
• Dog Carriers
• Litter Boxes
• Scratching Posts
• Cat Carriers
• All Pet Care
• Nail Clippers
• Flea & Tick
• All Luggage
• Lightweight
• Weekender Bags
• Accessories
• All Accessories
• Luggage Tags
• Travel Pillows
• Tech Gadgets
• Packing & Organization
• All Packing & Organization
• Packing Cubes
• Toiletry Bags
• Gift Guides
• All Gift Guides
• Valentine's Day
• All Valentine's Day
• For Any Loved Ones
• Mother's Day
• All Mother's Day
• Last Minute Gifts
• Best Mother's Day Gifts
• For Moms Who Have Everything
• Best from Amazon
• All Graduation
• For College Grads
• For High School Grads
• For Teachers
• Father's Day
• All Father's Day
• Best Father's Day Gifts
• For Dads Who Love Fishing
• Holiday Season & Christmas
• All Holiday Season & Christmas
• Gifts Under $25
• Practical Gifts
• Other occasions & loved ones
• All Other occasions & loved ones
• For Grandparents
• For Bridal Shower
• For New Parents
• For Any Occasion
• Deals & Sales
• All Deals & Sales
• Most Popular This Month
• Sales This Week
• New & Notable
• What to Buy This Month
• Amazon Prime Day
• All Amazon Prime Day
• Lightning Deals
• What to Buy and What to Skip
• Deals Under $25
• Deals Under $100
• Apple AirPod Deals
• Nintendo Switch Deals
• Beauty Deals
• Lowest Price Ever Deals
• Secret Deals
• CNBC Select
• All CNBC Select
• Credit Cards
• Small Business
• Personal Finance
• Credit Monitoring
• Help for Low Credit Scores
• Sign up for the Select Newsletter
• Check out Shop TODAY
• Privacy Policy
• Do Not Sell My Personal Information
• Terms Of Service
• NBC News Sitemap

Follow Select

The best Prime Day deals on luggage, travel accessories and more

The second (and final) day of sales from Amazon Prime Day is underway, offering discounts on highly rated travel items and luggage exclusive to Prime members . You can also find deals on tech , home and kitchen items , sneakers and more.

As a writer for NBC Select, I frequently cover shopping events like Prime Day, Black Friday and Cyber Monday, so I know how to find deals that are actually worth buying . Below, I rounded up the best Prime Day travel deals at their lowest price in at least three months. I’ll continue updating this list throughout Prime Day.

SKIP AHEAD Prime Day travel deals | More Prime Day travel sales | Best travel sales at other retailers

select It's the best time to buy a new pair of Apple AirPods — they're on sale for $119 during Prime Day

Want more from our everyday experts, straight to your inbox?  Sign up for The Selection , our weekly newsletter packed full of good finds, sales and exclusive content.

Selected. Our top picks

Best Prime Day travel deals

Anker powercore slim portable charger.

Anker 523 PowerCore Portable Charger

4.4-star rating from 10,047 reviews on Amazon

Lowest price ever

One of the  best Amazon travel accessories , this portable charger fits in carry-ons, purses and pockets. The battery carries enough power to charge most phones all the way and then some, plus it has a fire-resistant casing and overcharge protection, according to the brand.

Fyy Cable Organizer

4.5-star average rating from 23,117 reviews

Throw this compact cable organizer into your bag or suitcase for your next trip. It has two interior compartments, plus its outer cover is made of waterproof material to protect your items. It also comes with a hand strap if you prefer to carry it instead of packing it away.

Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable 2-Piece Set

4.5-star average rating from 12,976 reviews on Amazon

This luggage set comes with two hardside, expandable roller bags — a 28-inch bag and a 21-inch carry-on, which made our list of best carry-on bags . Both bags are expandable and include 360-degree spinner wheels, making them easy to push in any direction, according to the brand. Each bag also has a TSA-compatible combination lock on the side (no keys required) to keep your belongings safe.

Bagsmart 6-Piece Compression Packing Cubes

4.6-star average rating from 9,686 reviews on Amazon

Bagsmart’s compression cubes made our list of the best packing cubes for their ability to keep your suitcase organized. The six-piece set comes with a shoe bag, two small bags, two medium bags and a large bag. According to the brand, using them in your suitcase will allow you to fit double the amount you’d be able to fit without them. Each bag has a mesh cover that allows for breathability and lets you see what is inside. They also have a two-way zipper and top handle.

Buffway Slim Front Pocket RFID Blocking Leather Wallets

4.6-star average rating from 104,112 reviews on Amazon

With its slim design, this leather wallet fits seamlessly in pockets, purses or carry ons. Despite its size, it still has eight slots to hold all your important cards. It also has a RFID protective layer that blocks electronic signals to prevent identity or data theft from your ID or credit cards, according to the brand.

Delsey Paris Chatelet Air 2.0 Hardside Luggage 2-Piece Set

4.4-star average rating from 676 reviews on Amazon

The smaller suitcase in this set was featured in our list of best lightweight luggage . Both the 21- and 28-inch spinner bags included in the set have hard shells and come with a removable hanger, laundry bag and shoe bag to keep things organized. They also have a TSA-approved combination lock and each Delsey bag comes with a unique tracking plate and code, which helps the brand track your bag if it gets lost during travel.

Travel Select Amsterdam Business Rolling Garment Bag

4.2-star average rating from 20,049 reviews on Amazon

This rolling garment bag is small enough to be considered a carry-on with most airlines. It can fit three to four hangers, has a compression belt to keep clothes in place and an expandable zipper to add 25% more space to your bag, according to the brand. There are also two compartments to hold loose items (think ties, socks and more).

Travelon Anti-Theft Active Waist Pack

4.5-star average rating from 375 reviews on Amazon

This bag, which can be worn around your waist or as a crossbody, is especially helpful when traveling in crowded cities, thanks to its anti-theft features. It has slash-resistant mesh panels on the front of the bag and strap, locking straps and compartments. The main compartment also has a pocket for your passport and credit cards that is RIFD blocking, which prevents criminals from using special devices to scan your passport chip or credit cards, according to the brand.

Bose QuietComfort Headphones

4.6-star rating from 3,334 reviews on Amazon

A 2024 NBC Select Travel Award winner , these over-ear Bose Headphones have excellent noise cancellation technology in a lightweight, comfortable design with padded earcups. You can also toggle to Aware Mode, which lets you listen in on your surroundings, and the battery life lasts up to 24 hours, according to the brand.

Hicober 3-in-1 Charging Station

Hicober 3 in 1 Wireless Charging Station

4.4-star average rating from 6,594 reviews on Amazon

This 3-in-1 wireless charger works for MagSafe Apple devices and is foldable, making it easy to  throw it in your bag when traveling. It weighs just 4.5 ounces and takes less than three hours to fully charge your devices. It also works as a phone stand that you can angle horizontally or vertically for FaceTime calls or movies on the go.

Epicka Universal Travel Adapter

4.7-star average rating from 14,547 reviews on Amazon

The Epicka Universal Travel Adapter works in more than 150 countries and has four USB ports, one USB-C slot and a socket to charge six devices simultaneously at high speed, according to the brand. One thing to note: This adapter does not convert high voltage, so it may not be suitable for appliances that use high power. The max power it can handle is 880W at 110V or 1920W at 240V, according to Epicka.

Etronik Travel Duffel Bag

4.6-star average rating from 9,907 reviews on Amazon

This bag is carry-on compliant, has a separate shoe compartment, another compartment inside for wet clothes, a luggage trolley strap so you can slip it over a spinner suitcase and a detachable shoulder strap. It also has a USB charging port on the outside that you can plug your phone into when it needs power.

Perilogics Universal In-Flight Airplane Phone Holder Mount

Perilogics Universal in Flight Phone Holder Mount

4.6-star average rating from 18,821 reviews on Amazon

This phone holder clips onto your plane’s tray table so you can go hands-free while watching movies, sports or any other media you’ve downloaded. It rotates 360 degrees to allow for different viewing angles (including vertically and horizontally) and is compatible with different phone sizes, according to the brand.

Adidas Defender 4 Medium Duffel Bag

4.8-star average rating from 8,016 reviews on Amazon

NBC Select updates editor Mili Godio says she and her partner use this duffel for quick overnight stays or to haul exercise clothes to the gym. It made our list of best weekender bags for its spaciousness and zip-top interior with two zippered side pockets that allow you to keep track of (and store away) smaller items like earbuds , wallets and keys. It also has a removable shoulder strap, so you can use it as a true duffel with handles or a crossbody bag to haul heavier items.

Kipling Women’s Seoul 15” Laptop Backpack

Kipling Women's Seoul 15" Laptop Backpack

4.8-star average rating from 271 reviews on Amazon

This backpack is currently half off and a great choice for those traveling with their laptops. It has a large main compartment, a smaller zipper pocket at the front of the bag, padded straps and two water bottle pockets. It also has an internal padded sleeve for a 15-inch laptop and is made from water-resistant nylon.

Twelve South AirFly Pro

4.4-star average rating from 14,573 reviews on Amazon

NBC Select editorial projects manager Rebecca Rodriguez says the AirFly, which plugs into your seat’s audio jack and connects to earbuds via Bluetooth, has become a travel essential. “I can never use my Apple Airpods Max on airplanes because they don’t come with an auxiliary cable. My AirFly seamlessly pairs with my Airpods with the touch of a button, then recognizes them whenever I use it next. I used it on six, three- to four-hour flights before needing to recharge it, so it has great battery life.”

Loop Quiet Earplugs

Loop Quiet Ear Plugs for Noise Reduction

4.1-star rating from 94,284 reviews on Amazon

Reduce noise on the plane, in a hotel room or at a festival with these  Loop Quiet earplugs , which won a Select Wellness Award two years in a row. Using soft silicone, they reduce distracting sounds by up to 24 decibels, according to the brand. Each order includes a carrying case and eight interchangeable ear tips that come in four sizes to help you find a comfortable fit.

Vera Bradley Duffle Bag

Vera Bradley Women's Large Travel Duffle Bag

4.9-star rating from 4,235 reviews on Amazon

Included in our guide to the  best overnight weekender bags , this Vera Bradley duffel has a spacious interior, three mesh pockets inside and four pockets on the outside. It’s made from 100% cotton and has both drop handles and a detachable shoulder strap with a pad. “I have a similar Vera Bradley duffel weekender that’s lasted me 10+ years at this point,” says NBC Select editor  Lindsay Schneider . “Their bags are super lightweight and hold up well.”

Mavogel Cotton Sleep Mask

Mavogel Cotton Sleep Eye Mask

4.4-star rating from 85,994 reviews on Amazon

Thanks to its black sponge interior and bendable nose wire, this is one of the  best masks for blocking out light  while you’re snoozing on a plane or in a hotel. It has an adjustable strap for comfort and cotton fabric on the outside for breathability. Plus, it comes with a compact pouch for travel.

Cadence Travel Containers

4.3-star average from 209 reviews on Amazon

This set comes with three containers — one for your moisturizer, another for your cleanser and a third for the product of your choice. Each one holds .56 ounces of product, making them TSA-compliant and they have wide openings that make them easy to fill and get product out of. The leak-resistant containers also have magnets on the bag, so they stick together in your toiletry bag. “I use them for literally every trip, and I bring them to workout classes to safely store my jewelry if I go straight from the office,” says NBC Select associate editor Zoe Malin. “I got my mom and aunt their own set because they kept stealing mine!” 

Bagsmart Toiletry Bag

4.8-star rating from 55,091 reviews on Amazon

Many NBC Select editors love using this toiletry bag for travel thanks to its four compartments that expand when hung vertically. It also has elastic bands to hold bottles upright and an extra pocket on the water-resistant exterior, which comes in several colors and patterns.

The Original Cincha Travel Belt

The Original Cincha Travel Belt for Luggage

4.5-star rating from 777 reviews on Amazon

From one of our favorite  women-owned brands , this travel belt secures your personal bag around the handle of your carry-on luggage, so you can move through the airport freely. It’s adjustable to fit most bag sizes and styles, and comes in 16 colors so you can find one that matches your go-to luggage, according to the brand.

Hilife Portable Steamer

HiLIFE Steamer for Clothes

4.3-star rating from 116,713 reviews on Amazon

Keep your clothes wrinkle-free even when you’re storing them in a suitcase. This portable unit is one of the  best travel steamers  because it’s easy to pack, but its 240-milliliter capacity still holds enough water for up to 15 minutes of continuous steaming. It also has a 9-foot power cord and comes in three color options.

Zannaki Metal Travel Pill Organizer

4.4-star rating from 1,666 reviews on Amazon

One of the  best travel pill cases  to keep your meds organized on the go, this BPA-free aluminum alloy case has seven compartments for every day of the week. When tightly screwed together, the rubber rings make them airtight and waterproof, according to the brand. Choose between eight color options, all of which have wear-resistant etched labels and a lanyard cord. 

Eversnug Travel Blanket

4.7-star average rating from 6,652 reviews on Amazon

Avoid getting chilly on the plane with this microfleece blanket. It has a carrying case that doubles as a pillow when the blanket is inside, according to the brand. You can attach it directly to your carry-on with the included carabiner, or use the sleeve on the back of the carrying case to slip it on your suitcase’s pop-up handle.

Gemice Travel Bottles

4.5-star average rating from 12,480 reviews on Amazon

These TSA-approved travel bottles are leakproof and can hold 3 ounces of shampoo, conditioner, body wash, face wash and more for your carry-on. Each bottle has a no-drip valve and wide opening for easy filling. According to the brand, they are made of BPA-free, food-grade silicone, so they can even be used for things like salad dressing or other edible items if you like to bring your own food on the plane.

SmartTravel Inflatable Lumbar Travel Pillow

4.3-star average rating from 1,332 reviews on Amazon

NBC Select managing editor Leah Ginsberg uses this inflatable lumbar pillow for added back support during long flights. It’s designed to fit the body’s natural curves and reduce pressure on the spine and neck, according to the brand. You can also use it as a neck pillow. It comes with a mounting band to easily fasten it to headrests, too.

Hiearcool Waterproof Phone Pouch

4.6-star average rating from 99,319 reviews on Amazon

Keep your phone safe from the elements with this water-resistant phone pouch. It’s 8.3 inches long, so it can fit most phones, with or without a case, according to the brand. It also comes with a detachable lanyard when you want to go hands free.

select When will Prime Day be this year? Here’s everything we know so far

Best prime day travel sales.

Here are the best Prime Day travel sales to know about. Keep in mind, not every item from a brand is discounted as described below.

• Up to 50% off rolling suitcases
• Up to 40% off duffel bags
• Up to 50% travel accessories
• Up to 30% off at Avis Rental Car
• Up to 40% off Carnival Cruises

Prime Day: Best travel sales at other retailers

• Samsonite : Up to 40% off
• Briggs and Riley : Up to 30% off
• Macy’s : Up to 40% off
• Target : Up to 30% luggage and backpacks
• Dagne Dover: Up to 20% off luggage kits
• Calpak : Up to 50% off luggage, backpacks and travel accessories

How I found the best Prime Day travel deals

My recommendations above are based on NBC Select’s previous coverage and reporting. I also included products the NBC Select staff tested, including Wellness Award , Travel Award , Pet Award and Bed & Bath Award winners.  I ran each deal through price trackers like CamelCamelCamel to ensure products are at their lowest price ever or their lowest price in at least three months. All the products I recommend are highly rated items with at least a 4.0-star average rating from hundreds of reviews.

Why trust NBC Select?

I’m a contributor for NBC Select who has covered deals and sales for Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Amazon Prime Day and more. To round up the best Prime Day sales on travel,  I found highly-rated products at their lowest price ever or their lowest price in three months.

Catch up on NBC Select’s in-depth coverage of personal finance , tech and tools , wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook , Instagram , Twitter and TikTok to stay up to date.

Bethany Heitman is a contributing editor at NBC Select.

• Visit Our Blog about Russia to know more about Russian sights, history
• Check out our Russian cities and regions guides
• Follow us on Twitter and Facebook to better understand Russia
• Info about getting Russian visa , the main airports , how to rent an apartment
• Our Expert answers your questions about Russia, some tips about sending flowers

Russian regions

• Bashkortostan republic
• Chuvashia republic
• Kirov oblast
• Mari El republic
• Mordovia republic
• Nizhegorodskaya oblast
• Orenburg oblast
• Penza oblast
• Samara oblast
• Saratov oblast
• Tatarstan republic
• Udmurt republic
• Ulyanovsk oblast
• Map of Russia
• All cities and regions
• Blog about Russia
• News from Russia
• How to get a visa
• Flights to Russia
• Russian hotels
• Renting apartments
• Russian currency
• FIFA World Cup 2018
• Submit an article
• Flowers to Russia
• Ask our Expert

Nizhny Novgorod city, Russia

The capital city of Nizhegorodskaya oblast .

Nizhny Novgorod - Overview

Nizhny Novgorod (colloquially often just “Nizhny”; from 1932 to 1990 - Gorky) is a large city located in the center of European Russia, the administrative center of the Volga Federal District and Nizhny Novgorod Oblast.

It is an important economic, industrial, scientific, educational, and cultural center of Russia, the largest transport hub of the Volga Federal District. Nizhny Novgorod is one of the main centers of river tourism in Russia. The historic part of the city is rich in sights and is a popular tourist destination.

The population of Nizhny Novgorod is about 1,234,000 (2022), the area - 411 sq. km.

The phone code - +7 831, the postal codes - 603000-603257.

Nizhny Novgorod city flag

Nizhny novgorod city coat of arms.

Nizhny Novgorod city map, Russia

Nizhny novgorod city latest news and posts from our blog:.

7 January, 2022 / Nikolai Bugrov's Summer Dacha in Volodarsk .

4 December, 2017 / Stadiums and Matches of the World Cup 2018 in Russia .

2 June, 2017 / The Most Beautiful House in Nizhny Novgorod .

13 March, 2016 / Official Look of Host Cities of World Cup 2018 in Russia .

29 September, 2015 / Nizhny Novgorod - the view from above .

More posts..

History of Nizhny Novgorod

Foundation of nizhny novgorod.

During the military campaigns of the Russian princes against the Volga Bulgaria, the place where the Oka River flows into the Volga was used as a gathering point for the Murom and Suzdal troops. In 1220, Grand Duke Yuri Vsevolodovich (the grandson of Prince Yuri Dolgoruky, the founder of Moscow) conducted a successful campaign against the Bulgars. After it, he “decided to strengthen this important place for Rus” and founded a town at the mouth of the Oka.

It was named Novgorod, which literally means “new town”. Later, the adjective “nizhny” (“lower”) was added to the name of the town in the Russian annals. This was probably done in order to distinguish it from the town of Novgorod (present Veliky Novgorod) and other Novgorods that existed at that time.

The founding of Nizhny Novgorod was the beginning of an active expansion of Russian influence in the Mordovian lands. Two white-stone churches were built in the fortress, including the Cathedral of the Archangel (1227) - evidence of the special role that the town had in the system of lands of Vladimir-Suzdal Rus. However, the Mongol invasion stopped further development.

Information about Nizhny Novgorod of the 13th century is extremely scarce. But it is known that after the invasion it revived relatively quickly. Nizhny Novgorod is constantly mentioned in Russian chronicles as a major political and economic center of North-Eastern Rus and a spiritual center of Orthodoxy in the Volga region. The town was often the object of conflicts between Moscow and Tver.

In 1392, the Moscow prince Vasily I received a jarlig for the Nizhny Novgorod Principality and captured Nizhny Novgorod. The final annexation of Nizhny Novgorod to the possessions of Moscow took place in the late 1440s.

More Historical Facts…

Nizhny Novgorod in the 16th-18th centuries

Under Ivan III and Vasily III, the town played the role of a border post and was a gathering place for military campaigns against the Kazan Khanate. In 1508-1515, the stone kremlin was built. After the capture of Kazan by Ivan the Terrible, the border role of Nizhny Novgorod became insignificant. At the same time, Nizhny Novgorod became the center of trade between Russia and the East and a large shipbuilding center.

In September 1611, during the Time of Troubles, the Second People’s Militia was organized in Nizhny Novgorod to fight the Poles who were able to establish control over Moscow. The militia consisted of detachments of townspeople, peasants of the central and northern regions of the Tsardom of Russia. The leaders were the Nizhny Novgorod merchant Kuzma Minin and Prince Dmitry Pozharsky (the monument to them is installed on Red Square in Moscow). In October 1612, the militia was able to completely liberate Moscow.

In the 17th century, a schism occurred in the Orthodox Church under Patriarch Nikon. It led to the formation of numerous settlements of Old Believers in the vicinity of Nizhny Novgorod. In 1695, during his Azov campaign, Peter I arrived in Nizhny Novgorod. In 1719, as a result of his administrative-territorial reforms, the town became the center of a separate Nizhny Novgorod Governorate. In 1722, setting off on the Persian campaign, Nizhny Novgorod was again visited by Peter I. Here he celebrated his 50th birthday.

In 1767, Nizhny Novgorod was visited by Empress Catherine II. During her stay in the town, she met the famous local mechanic and inventor Ivan Kulibin. After her visit, a new regular town plan was approved. The first town theater was built in 1798. Later, it became known as Nikolaevsky, in honor of Emperor Nicholas I.

Nizhny Novgorod in the 19th century

At the turn of the 18th and 19th centuries, Nizhny Novgorod became a major scientific and cultural center of the Russian Empire. In 1811, the population of Nizhny Novgorod was about 14,400 people. In 1817, the Makaryev Fair, the largest fair of the Russian Empire, was moved to the village of Kunavino (one of the districts of today’s Nizhny Novgorod). Before that, it was organized every year near the Makaryevsky Monastery, which burned down a year earlier. From that time on, it began to be called the Nizhny Novgorod Fair. Thanks to it, the rapid economic development of the town and adjacent villages began.

After Emperor Nicholas I visited the town in 1834, the large-scale reconstruction of Nizhny Novgorod began. In 1847, a water supply system appeared in the town and the first fountain was built. Private buildings in the Nizhny Novgorod Kremlin were demolished and new administrative buildings appeared in their place. A lot of new buildings, streets, boulevards, and gardens were built.

In 1849, a large industrial enterprise was founded in the village of Sormovo (another district of today’s Nizhny Novgorod). Later, it became known as the Sormovo plant. It was producing river steamers, various railway cars, steam locomotives, and trams. Thanks to the plant, Sormovo soon turned into a large village of workers. In 1862, the construction of the Moscow-Nizhny Novgorod railway was completed. In 1863, the population of the city was 41,500 people.

In 1896, the city hosted the All-Russian Trade and Industrial Exhibition. The radio receiver of the engineer A.S. Popov, the hyperboloid tower of the engineer V.G. Shukhov were demonstrated at the exhibition, as well as the first Russian car of the Frese and Yakovlev factories.

Nizhny Novgorod in the first half of the 20th century

In 1914, about 111,000 people lived in Nizhny Novgorod. In 1917, during the First World War, the Warsaw Polytechnic Institute was evacuated to this city, on the basis of which the Nizhny Novgorod Polytechnic Institute was created.

On October 7, 1932, Nizhny Novgorod was renamed Gorky due to the 40th anniversary of the literary and social activities of the writer Maxim Gorky. In 1933, the first permanent bridge across the Oka River was built. The railway bridge across the Volga was constructed too. Thanks to this, it became possible to go by rail through Gorky to the Urals and Siberia.

The 1930s were a period of rapid industrialization. In 1932, the largest industrial enterprise in the city was opened - the Gorky Automobile Plant (GAZ), an important object of the Soviet defense industry. In the 1930s-1940s, the city was even referred to as “Russian Detroit”. By 1939, the population of Nizhny Novgorod increased to about 644,000 people.

Every fourth resident of the Gorky region (about 822 thousand people) fought on the fronts of the Second World War. Of these, more than 350 thousand people did not return from the battlefields - they were killed, went missing or died from wounds in hospitals.

In June 1943, three large raids of German bombers were carried out on Gorky. The main target of air strikes was the Gorky Automobile Plant, which as a result was almost completely destroyed. It was rebuilt only in the middle of 1944. Over 500,000 wounded were treated in dozens of hospitals during the war years.

The city was an important center for the production of weapons. During the Second World War, every second Soviet car, every third tank and every fourth artillery piece were produced at Gorky’s plants. In total, about 38 thousand tanks, self-propelled guns, armored vehicles, 43 thousand mortars, 16 thousand aircraft, 22 submarines, 109 thousand cars, more than 85 thousand radio stations, as well as 101 thousand artillery pieces and 1,165 Katyusha multiple rocket launchers were produced in Gorky.

Nizhny Novgorod after the Second World War

In 1946, the first GAZ-M-20 “Pobeda” passenger car and the GAZ-51 truck left the assembly line of the Gorky Automobile Plant. In 1949, the construction of the monumental Chkalov Stairs connecting the Upper Volga and Lower Volga embankments was completed in the historic center of Nizhny Novgorod. On August 4, 1959, the resolution of the Council of Ministers of the USSR “On the closure of the city of Gorky for visiting by foreigners” was issued. In 1962, the population of Gorky exceeded 1 million people.

On January 18, 1970, a radiation accident occurred at the Krasnoe Sormovo plant. During the construction of a nuclear submarine, an unauthorized launch of the reactor took place. After working at prohibitive power for about 10-15 seconds, it partially collapsed. Hundreds of workers were exposed to the radioactive release. In total, over one thousand people took part in the liquidation of the consequences of the accident and were exposed to radiation.

In 1985, a subway was opened in Gorky. In 1980-1986, Andrei Sakharov, a world famous nuclear physicist, Nobel laureate, and activist, was in exile in Gorky to prevent his contacts with foreigners. In the early 1990s, the “closed city” status was lifted and the city became accessible to foreigners. On October 22, 1990, Gorky was renamed back to Nizhny Novgorod. In 1991, the population of the city reached its maximum - 1,445,000 people.

At the end of the 20th century, the information technology sphere began to actively develop in the city. In the 2000s, a transport problem arose because of the insufficient carrying capacity of the Nizhny Novgorod bridges connecting the lower part of the city and the upper one.

In February 2012, the Nizhny Novgorod Volga Aerial Tramway was opened. This 3661-meter-long gondola lift cable car connected Nizhny Novgorod with the town of Bor. Its daily passenger traffic is about 5,000 people. In 2013, the city electric train was launched - an alternative to the subway line from Sormovo to Moskovsky railway station.

Nizhny Novgorod hosted 6 matches of the FIFA World Cup 2018 . A new stadium was built, the old river port was demolished, a new park and embankments were created. Large-scale restoration of old streets and buildings took place, new museums were opened, hotels were built, and parks were reconstructed.

Streets of Nizhny Novgorod

One sunny summer day in Nizhniy Novgorod

Author: Denis Plekhanov

Apartment buildings in Nizhny Novgorod

Author: Eugene Ivanov

On the street in Nizhny Novgorod

Author: Sergey S. Kazenyuk

Nizhny Novgorod - Features

Nizhny Novgorod is located about 425 km east of Moscow, at the confluence of the two largest waterways of the European part of Russia - the Volga and Oka rivers. The city is divided by the Oka into two parts. The length of Nizhny Novgorod along the Oka is 20 km, along the Volga - about 30 km.

The climate in Nizhny Novgorod is moderately continental, with cold, long winters and warm, relatively short summers. The average temperature in January is minus 8.9 degrees Celsius, in July - plus 19.4 degrees Celsius.

A red deer is depicted on the coat of arms and flag of Nizhny Novgorod, which is a symbol of nobility, purity, life, wisdom, and justice. The City Day is celebrated on the 3rd Saturday in August.

In January 2019, Nizhny Novgorod was recognized as the best city in Russia in terms of quality of life. It took first place among Russian cities and 109th in the world in terms of quality of life. The rating was compiled by the site numbeo.com, which specializes in statistics on the cost of living and consumer prices in different countries of the world.

When compiling the rating, the purchasing power of the population, safety, health care, the cost of living, the ratio of real estate prices to the population’s income, traffic congestion, the level of environmental pollution, and climate were taken into account.

The main branches of the local industry are the production of cars and weapons, shipbuilding. Nizhny Novgorod is also one of the IT centers of Russia.

Nizhny Novgorod is a major transport hub. The city has a railway station, a river station, a cargo port, several berths for transshipment of goods. Strigino International Airport named after V.P. Chkalov offers regular flights to such cities as Yekaterinburg, Kazan, Kaliningrad, Moscow, Novosibirsk, Samara, St. Petersburg, Sochi, and a number of others.

Public transport in Nizhny Novgorod plays a very important role in ensuring the life of the city. At the same time, its work is hampered by the distribution of its population on the city’s territory, large daily migrations, a very high concentration of passenger traffic on the bridges across the Oka River, and the lack of an all-encompassing system of high-speed transport. There are municipal buses, fixed-route minibuses, trams, trolleybuses, the city train, and subway.

The tourist potential of Nizhny Novgorod is quite high. According to UNESCO, it is one of the most valuable historical cities in the world. In total, there are more than 600 unique historical, architectural and cultural monuments in Nizhny Novgorod, a variety of museums. The best time to visit Nizhny Novgorod is summer.

One of the alternative ways to visit Nizhny Novgorod is to take a river cruise along the Volga River. Travelers will find exciting excursions and meals in traditional Russian taverns. It will also be interesting to come during one of the many fairs or ethnographic festivals that are held in the city.

Main Attractions of Nizhny Novgorod

Nizhny Novgorod Kremlin (1508-1515) - a fortress in the historic center of Nizhny Novgorod and its oldest part, the main architectural complex of the city located on the right high bank, at the confluence of the Volga and Oka rivers. To date, all 13 towers of the Nizhny Novgorod Kremlin have been preserved or have been restored. The thickness of the wall at the base reaches 5 meters. There are exhibitions in the towers of the fortress; a section of the wall is open for tourists to visit.

In the past, there were several churches on the territory of the Nizhny Novgorod Kremlin. Today, only the Archangel Michael Cathedral has survived, built no later than the middle of the 16th century and rebuilt in 1628-1631 - the oldest surviving building in the kremlin. There is the grave of Kuzma Minin inside it.

An excellent view of the Volga River and Strelka (the confluence of the Oka and Volga) opens from the walls of the Nizhny Novgorod Kremlin. Here you can also see a collection of military equipment from the Second World War.

Nizhny Novgorod State Art Museum - one of the oldest museums in Russia, the largest museum of fine arts in the Nizhny Novgorod region. The Governor’s Palace on the territory of the Nizhny Novgorod Kremlin houses a permanent exhibition of Russian art and a collection of artistic silver.

In the House of the Merchant and Benefactor D.V. Sirotkin (Verkhnevolzhskaya Embankment, 3), an exposition of Western European art is presented and, separately, the painting by K.E. Makovsky “The appeal of Kuzma Minin to the citizens of Nizhny Novgorod” - one of the largest paintings on a historical theme in Russia (698x594 cm).

Chkalov Stairs (1943-1949) - a monumental staircase in the form of a figure eight in the historic center of Nizhny Novgorod. Connecting the Upper Volga (Verkhnevolzhskaya) and Lower Volga (Nizhnevolzhskaya) embankments, it is one of the longest stairs in Russia. It starts from the observation deck at the monument to Valery Chkalov (the famous Soviet pilot who made the first non-stop flight from the USSR to the USA via the North Pole), next to the St. George Tower of the Nizhny Novgorod Kremlin.

Bolshaya Pokrovskaya Street - the main street of Nizhny Novgorod built up with noble mansions of the past centuries. A large part of Bolshaya Pokrovskaya is reserved for the pedestrian zone and is analogous to the pedestrian Arbat Street in Moscow. There are a lot of historic houses, cafes, souvenir shops, boutiques, monuments, and sculptures here. The length of the street is over 2 km.

The building of the State Bank (Bolshaya Pokrovskaya Street, 26), resembling a medieval palace, is an outstanding architectural monument built in the Russian Revival style in 1911-1913. In the Museum of Old Equipment and Tools (Bolshaya Pokrovskaya Street, 43), you can see unique exhibits, hear their history, and even touch them.

Fedorovsky Embankment - one of the most beautiful embankments in Nizhny Novgorod and the best observation deck in the city. Everything is perfectly visible from this embankment: the old part of the city, the river station with a park, the Kanavinsky bridge - one of the oldest in the city, and, of course, the opposite bank of the Oka River with the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the confluence of the Oka and Volga. People also come here to watch the sunset.

Nizhny Novgorod Volga Aerial Tramway . This cable car, 3661 meters long, connects the high right bank of the Volga River, where the historic part of Nizhny Novgorod is located, with the town of Bor. It has the largest unsupported span over the water surface in Europe - 861 meters.

A one way trip during which you can admire the picturesque views of Nizhny Novgorod and the Volga River takes 15 minutes. It is better to use it in good sunny weather, because in windy weather, the movement of the cabins can be stopped. Sennaya Square on Kazanskaya Embankment.

Nizhny Novgorod State Museum of History and Architecture (1875-1877). Also known as the Mansion of S.M. Rukavishnikov, it is an architectural ensemble built in the eclectic style in the historic center of Nizhny Novgorod, one of the most important and famous architectural monuments of this city. Guided tours are held in the premises, allowing you to learn about the life of the former owners of the mansion, as well as look at the historical expositions of different years. Verkhnevolzhskaya Embankment, 7.

Main Palace of Nizhny Novgorod Fair - a luxurious building constructed in the forms of Old Russian architecture of the 17th century. Today, exhibitions of various formats are held here, as well as the multimedia exposition “Russia - my history” dedicated mainly to the history of Nizhny Novgorod starting from the Finno-Ugric peoples. Sovnarkomovskaya Street, 13.

Museum of the History of the Gorky Automobile Plant . The museum houses expositions telling about the history and development of the Gorky Automobile Plant. In total, there are over 40,000 exhibits. Here you can see a collection of Soviet vintage cars, which includes “Chaika”, “Volga”, the truck “GAZ-51”, and a lot of others. Lenina Avenue, 95.

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral (1868-1881) - the most noticeable sight of the lower part of Nizhny Novgorod, which can be seen from all observation decks of the upper city. The church, 87 meters high, was built on the site of the Nizhny Novgorod Fair at the expense of merchants, who wanted to perpetuate the visit of Emperor Alexander II. Strelka Street, 3a.

Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary (1696-1719) - one of the best examples of the Stroganov Baroque, an architectural monument of federal significance. From a distance, this colorful building looks like a sugar gingerbread with “candy” domes and decorated with stone flowers, pears and apples. Rozhdestvenskaya Street, 34.

Pechersky Ascension Monastery - one of the most interesting places in Nizhny Novgorod, where you can feel the spirit of the city. Most of the monastery buildings date back to the first half of the 17th century. A lot of beautiful photographs can be taken here. Privolzhskaya Sloboda Street, 108.

Limpopo Zoo - the first private zoo in Russia. More than 270 species of animals live here, 25 of which are listed in the Red Book of the Russian Federation. It is located on the territory of the Sormovsky Park on an area of 7.1 hectares. Yaroshenko Street, 7b.

Architectural and Ethnographic Museum-Reserve “Shcholokovskiy Khutor” . The exposition of this museum is represented by 16 objects of rural architecture: residential houses, barns, mills and churches of the 17th-19th centuries brought from the northern districts of the Nizhny Novgorod region. The facades of the houses are decorated with traditional relief carvings. In the premises of the houses, interiors with authentic items of peasant life have been restored. Gorbatovskaya Street, 41.

Nizhny Novgorod city of Russia photos

Pictures of nizhny novgorod.

Chkalov Stairs and the Nizhny Novgorod Kremlin

Author: Sergey Bulanov

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in Nizhny Novgorod

Author: Evgeniy Balashov

Shopping and office center Smart in Nizhny Novgorod

Author: Diman Lazarev

Sights of Nizhny Novgorod

Annunciation Monastery - the oldest monastery in Nizhny Novgorod

Nizhny Novgorod Cathedral Mosque

Church in honor of the icon of the Mother of God Joy of All Who Sorrow in Nizhny Novgorod

The comments of our visitors

• Currently 3.13/5

Rating: 3.1 /5 (251 votes cast)

StarTribune

Twins' willi castro collects a duffel bag full of memories from his first all-star game.

ARLINGTON, TEXAS – There was a full Twins duffel bag sitting in front of Willi Castro's locker after he played in Tuesday's All-Star Game, stuffed with memorabilia from all the festivities at Globe Life Field.

Castro kept the "Willi Castro" placard that hung above him at the All-Star media day event. He had his eyes on his name card above his locker. After he pinch hit in the eighth inning, grounding out to third base in his lone at-bat, he made sure he kept his wrist band and arm sleeve.

"I took everything that I could get," said Castro after playing in his first career Midsummer Classic. "It's something that you don't see a lot. I know there are a lot of guys that want to go to this event. It's just something that you're going to take whatever you see. I took a lot of stuff, I know that."

Castro was told he would receive an at-bat during the game, so he didn't worry about his long wait. With two outs in the bottom of the eighth inning during the American League's 5-3 victory, it was finally his turn. The National League countered with a pitching change, bringing in Philadelphia Phillies reliever Jeff Hoffman, which gave Castro a little extra time to look in the crowd and peek at Hoffman's delivery on an iPad.

"I was a little nervous at first," Castro said, "but when I was coming up to the plate, everything went away."

Castro saw four pitches, all on the outside corner. He was looking for a fastball over the plate, but in a two-strike count, he bounced a splitter toward third base for the final out in the eighth inning.

Ironically, Mr. Versatility for the Twins — starting at least 10 games at five different positions this year — didn't have an opportunity to play defense. He entered as a designated hitter when he pinch hit for Cleveland's David Fry.

"It's OK," Castro said. "I participated, so that's the good thing. The good thing is I went up to hit. I know everybody wants to go up to hit. I really enjoyed every moment from today."

Sign up for our Twins Update newsletter

There were many memorable moments for Castro. He enjoyed the opportunity to chat with Aaron Judge and Boston's Jarren Duran, the All-Star MVP, over the past couple of days. He walked the red carpet alongside his parents, his wife and two daughters.

The team introductions along the first-base line, he said, gave him goose bumps.

"Special stuff like this, I really enjoy having my family here," he said. "This event is something I can't really explain how proud I've been since I got named to come here. I'm just proud of myself, proud of everything."

There were small moments Castro appreciated, too. The locker next to him inside the AL clubhouse was Detroit Tigers outfielder Riley Greene, his teammate in 2022. When he was taking a few practice swings in the on-deck circle during the NL's pitching change, he chatted with another former teammate, Isaac Paredes.

"Willi is a great dude, great player," Greene said. "It's good to see good people get here. Being able to play with him back in Detroit was awesome."

Castro planned to take all his All-Star gear and memorabilia to the game room at his house. He'll find a place for it all beside the baseballs from his first hit and first homer.

"Obviously, everything I wore, I'm going to save it, so I can have something as a memory," Castro said.

As players hurried to leave the clubhouse, beginning their own All-Star breaks, Castro didn't look like he was in a rush as he sat back in his chair.

"This is something that I'm never going to forget," he said. "I really enjoyed every second."

Bobby Nightengale joined the Star Tribune in May, 2023, after covering the Reds for the Cincinnati Enquirer for five years. He's a graduate of Bradley University.

• Royce White campaign claims to reimburse 'non-authorized' charges on strip club, more
• Minneapolis medical execs who became romantic 'soulmates' sentenced for scheme that netted millions
• Reusse: Addison is now Vikings' No. 1 knucklehead receiver
• After months of turmoil, Rochester schools adopt transgender guidelines
• Nearly two-thirds of Democrats want Biden to withdraw, new AP-NORC poll finds
• A million gallons of coal ash wastewater spill at Minnesota Power coal plant

French anti-terror police detain alleged neo-Nazi sympathizer suspected of targeting Olympic torch

After no men picked for olympics 2024 in artistic swimming, italy's minisini says he's ending career, great golf and being on the good side of the draw go a long way at the british open, 3-time world champ ellen van dijk to race olympic time trial 6 weeks after fracturing her ankle, jontay porter, banned from nba, is denied permission to resume career in greece.

• Baseball commissioner says MLB can solve Twins TV issue Jul. 16
• Here are the players chosen by the Twins in the 2024 MLB draft Jul. 16
• Twins top pitching prospect promoted to Class AAA Jul. 16
• Mauer makes four Hall of Famers for St. Paul's Cooperstown Corridor • Twins
• Baseball commissioner says MLB can solve Twins TV issue • Twins
• Twins' Castro collects duffel bag full of memories at All-Star Game • Twins
• Here are the players chosen by the Twins in the 2024 MLB draft • Twins
• Twins top pitching prospect promoted to Class AAA • Twins

© 2024 StarTribune. All rights reserved.

• Trip Planner
• Private Tours
• Small Group Tours
• Two Capitals
• City Breaks
• Trans-Siberian
• River Cruises
• Russia & Beyond

4-star edition of the private 9-day tour of the Russian capitals

5-star edition fo the private 9-day tour of Moscow & St. Petersburg

13-day in-depth discovery of Moscow, Kazan, and St. Petersburg

7-day tour designed to harness the best of the Venice of the North

11-day private discovery of Moscow, St. Petersburg, and the Golden Ring

Your Russia Getaway

Fill out the short trip survey to receive a personalized itinerary from a destination expert.

• Travel guide
• Before you go
• What to see

Russia Trip Planner

Learn about the dos and the don'ts for your amazing trip to Russia

• Our Partners
• Reservation Policies

Rated 9/10 on the Trustpilot review platform

• My itineraries
• Chat with us
• Trip survey

Groups & Agents

• For Suppliers

+1 (888) 744-6056

• North America : +1 (888) 744-6056
• Oceania and Australia : +61261888118

Nizhny Novgorod, Russia

You are here, about nizhny novgorod.

If you are still wondering, whether Nizhny Novgorod travel would be something you'd like to experience, let us help you - it would. This colorful Russian city full of cultural heritage might exceed your expectations since it has something to offer for everyone.

Reasons to Travel to Nizhny Novgorod

Art enthusiasts will surely enjoy the State Gorky Literature Museum which was named after the great Russian author Maxim Gorky. Bet you didn't know that Nizhny Novgorod was his birthplace? Do not worry, now you do.

There are also multiple art galleries and installations such as The Blogger's Bench which provides free Wi-Fi access if you are in the mood of blogging about your experience.

The musician community will not be disappointed as well, as the city has multiple live music bars and cafes open for the public and is often the place where great concerts are staged. If you are not that into art, there are plenty of other places worth putting on your Nizhny Novgorod itinerary, f.e., the grand red-brick Kremlin.

The Cathedral of Archangel Michael, which is actually the only church that has stood the test of time in Kremlin, along with multiple ancient towers is what makes this site a must-see. By the way, the magnificent church of St. Elijah is right around the corner, so make sure to make a little detour during your Nizhny Novgorod tour after seeing the Kremlin.

Another thing you should not miss during your Nizhny Novgorod sightseeing is the panorama of Strelka, overlooking the amazing view of the confluence of the rivers Oka and Volga and also the Fedorovsky Embankment, a perfect place for a stroll in the evening.

If you want to take a look at the scene from a different angle, hop on a boat trip along the two rivers! Nowadays Nizhny Novgorod is the fifth-largest city in the Russian Federation, somehow managing to maintain the unique heritage alongside its cultural versatility, thus looking at pictures is not enough, feel like exploring it yourself?

Best Things to Do in Nizhny Novgorod

• Witness the ancient Novgorod Kremlin
• Get inspired by the scenic panoramas of the Volga River
• Explore diverse museums of Nizhny Novgorod

More About Nizhny Novgorod

• Call us now
• Request a call
• Chat on WhatsApp
• Start Live chat
• Contact via email

Moscow & St. Petersburg Small Group Tours Private Tour Packages Trans-Siberian Trips Russian River Cruises Moscow Tour Packages St. Petersburg Tours All Russia Tours

Why Travel to Russia Best Time to Visit Russia Russian Visa Information Tips Before Traveling Tips on Arrival Russian Currency Moscow Travel Guide Read More in Our Blog

Hermitage Museum Church of the Savior on Blood The Kremlin Sergiev Posad, Golden Ring Kizhi Island The Red Square Siberia Lake Baikal

Fla. Seller of Travel Ref. No. ST39939 All Rights Reserved © 2024 About Us | Testimonials  | Our Blog  |  Terms of Service  | Privacy Policy  

The Top 12 Things to Do in Nizhny Novgorod, Russia

Take a first-rate trip to Russia's fifth city

Ershov_Maks/Getty Images

Although it's Russia's fifth-largest city, you could be forgiven for never having heard of Nizhny Novgorod. Notwithstanding that another Russian city is simply called " Novgorod ," the current name of the city just doesn't have a memorable ring to it. (By contrast, its name during the Soviet years — Gorky, like the famous author — was much more iconic.) At any rate, this city of just over a million around six hours east of Moscow is more than worth a visit. These are just 12 reasons why!

Tour the Kremlin's 13 Towers

Like most every other city in Russia, Nizhny Novgorod is home to a Kremlin. (The word "kremlin" means "citadel" in Russian, and has nothing to do with the modern Russian government) One thing that elevated the Kremlin of Nizhny Novgorod above others in Russia (with the possible exception of the Moscow Kremlin and one or two others), however, is the fact that its wall has 13 towers. During the summer months, at least one free walking tour per day operates from the main entrance of Nizhny Novgorod's Kremlin.

Climb Russia's Longest Staircase

Named for one of the most famous Russian pilots of the early aviation age (Valery Chkalov), the Chkalov Stairs connect two of Nizhny Novgorod's public squares, which sit on the upper and lower embankments of the Volga River, respectively. Built in 1943 (during the period when Nizhny Novgorod was known as Gorky), the Chkalov Stairs currently have the distinction of being the longest staircase in Russia.

Go Wild at Limpopo Zoo

One thing that surprises many travelers to Nizhny Novgorod is how amazing its zoo, colloquially known as Limpopo is. In addition to being home to a tropical botanical garden (which, not surprisingly, is indoors), the zoo hosts a variety of reptiles, mammals and birds. There's also a small sculpture park on the grounds of Nizhny Novgorod's zoo, including both original and replica pieces.

Shop (or Just Stroll) Along a Storied High Street

Bolshaya Pokrovskaya Street has been the de-facto "Main Street" of Nizhny Novgorod for more than 200 years. Well, minus the Soviet Union period, during which the cafes that once (and now) lined it became somewhat worthless, since intellectual conversations were basically forbidden. These days, you can come here for a cup of Russian tea then shop at the dozens of boutiques you'll find on either side of the street.

Sun Yourself at the Spit

Nizhny Novgorod sits at the confluence of the Oka and Volga Rivers, with the triangle of land at the point they meet being known as the Nizhny Novgorod Spit. Ignoring the unfortunate double-meaning of its name for a moment, this is actually a wonderful place to get a tan, if it's summer in the city and the sun happens to be shining. Even if not, photographers will enjoy a trip here for a view of the Kremlin and city center across the Volga.

Marvel at the Open-Air Museum of Rozhdestvenskaya Street

Like Bolshaya Pokrovskaya Street, Rozhdestvenskaya Street has long been one of the most important streets in Nizhny Novgorod. However, while the former has become a primarily commercial artery in recent decades, the charm of the latter is in its well-maintained buildings, which hearken back to the mid-18th century. In fact, some locals go so far as to consider Rozhdestvenskaya Street an "open-air museum."

Ride Russia's Newest Cable Car

Russian investment in infrastructure isn't quite as dramatic as that of, say, China, but the Federation has nonetheless built a selection of interesting and modern transportation systems since the fall of the USSR. Among them is the just-opened cable car, which travels from the center of Nizhny Novgorod over the Volga River to suburban Bor. At any rate, a ride over the river and back is definitely worth inclusion on your list of things to do in Nizhny Novgorod.

Taste Traditional Shchi Soup

Shchi is one of Nizhy Novgorod's most delicious local specialties, available in most every local restaurant that serves Russian food. From above, a bowl of shchi seems incredibly complicated, with a colorful palette that suggests the inclusion of dozens of diverse ingredients. In fact, the magic of shchi is in its simplicity. Building on the traditional pan-Russian recipe of cabbage, pork fat and salt (yes, just three ingredients), locals in Nizhny Novgorod sometimes add minced meat or egg whites as bonus items, then top the tangy soup with a dollop of sour cream.

Survey Amazing Russian Orthodox Architecture

Think the only amazing Russian Orthodox churches are in Moscow and St. Petersburg? Think again. Nizhny Novgorod boasts several amazing examples of Russian Orthodox architecture. From the brilliant golde domes John the Baptist Cathedral near the Volga River, to the expansive grounds of 14th-century Pechersky Ascension Monastery, Nizhny Novgorod is an architecture buff's dream!

Take a Look Back in Time

Nizhny Novgorod's historical center is relatively large and well-preserved, but a stroll (or 10) through it isn't the only way to get a feel for the city's centuries-long past. Head to the Russian Museum of Photography, which not only showcases a variety of images of Nizhny Novgorod that date back a century or even longer, but also spotlights the equipment Russian photographers have used throughout the years, and notable figures in Russia's photography history as well.

Visit the Convent from the Movie "Salt"

You'd be forgiven if you've entirely forgotten the 2010 film "Salt." However, if you remember any destination from this spy thriller, it's likely the facade of Makaryev Convent, which is located within day-trip distance of Nizhny Novgorod. Having served as a monastery from its consecration in the early 15th century up until the beginning of the Russian Revolution, Makaryev became a convent after the fall of the Soviet Union , and is now home to 22 nuns.

Take an Excursion to a 12th-Century Tea Town

Another worthwhile day trip from Nizhny Novgorod is to the town of Gorodets, which sits about an hour to its northwest. With a history dating back to the 12th century, Gorodets boasts an interesting array of architecture and museums, including one dedicated to samovars. 

The Top 15 Places to Visit in Russia

Top 12 Things to Do in Kazan, Russia

Moscow - Russian Rivers and Waterways Port of Call

25 Best Things to Do in Moscow

The Top 10 Things to Do in Tver, Russia

9 Things to See in Moscow's Red Square

The Top 12 Things to Do in Novgorod, Russia

The Top 12 Things to Do in Sochi, Russia

The Top 12 Things to Do in Ethiopia

The Top 11 Things to Do in Belgorod, Russia

St. Petersburg, Russia

The 9 Top Things to Do in North Beach, Miami

10 Must-Visit Palaces and Castles in Russia

10 Best Things to Do in Barcelona

The Top 12 Things to Do in Astrakhan

15 Top Things to Do in Lisbon, Portugal

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

• Travel Products
• Trends + Deals We Love
• Amazon Products
• Amazon Prime Day

We Found 110 Travel Essentials All Under $50 for Amazon Prime Day — Prices Start at Just $5

From travel pillows to walking shoes, shop our must-have travel products on sale up to 71 percent off now.

Travel + Leisure / Amazon (4)

It’s the perfect time to prepare for your last-minute summer adventures. Now for Amazon Prime Day , you can stock up on everything you need for your upcoming travels, from travel pillows to comfortable walking shoes , swimsuits, and suitcases. Prices are now as low as $5 for organizational items like Ziploc Charm Accessory Bags . You can also score big discounts from top brands like Apple, Eddie Bauer, Samsonite, and more.

Best Amazon Prime Day Deals Overall

• Rockland Melbourne Hardside Expandable Spinner Wheel Luggage , $50 (originally $120)
• Duoyangjiasha Women's Comfortable Loafers , $22 (originally $50)
• INIU Portable Charger , $18 (originally $22)
• Pacific Gear Rolling Duffel With Wheels , $41 (originally $80)
• Bagsmart Duffel Bag for Travel , $29 (originally $41)
• Cluci Weekender Travel Bag for Women Quilted Puffer Tote , $33 (originally $52)
• Eddie Bauer Stowaway Packable , $26 (originally $40)
• Adidas Defender 4 Medium Duffel Bag , $34 (originally $45)
• Samsonite Manual Luggage Scale , $8 (originally $12)
• Veken 8 Set Packing Cubes , $14 with on-site coupon (originally $26)
• Apple AirTag , $24 (originally $29)

We’ve scoured Amazon for the best deals on must-have travel items, and all of the deals are under $50. Ahead of your next trip, grab a new personal item bag like the Cluci Weekender Travel Bag for Women Quilted Puffer Tote , which is 38 percent off, or the Adidas Defender 4 Medium Duffel Bag for 25 percent off. You can even purchase a new suitcase for as low as $35. For deals on everything from socks to headphones, check out the top Prime Day sales here.

Best Amazon Prime Day Luggage Deals

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or international adventure, treat yourself to a new suitcase on Amazon Prime Day. You can now score huge discounts on durable luggage pieces like the Travel Select Amsterdam Softside Expandable Rolling Luggage , now 36 percent off, or Rockland Melbourne Hardside Expandable Spinner Wheel Luggage , now 59 percent off. For heavy packers or group travelers, a handy luggage set like the Rockland Fashion Expandable Softside Upright Luggage Set is a great choice, especially now that it is 71 percent off.

• U.S. Traveler Rio Lightweight Carry-on Suitcase Set , $35 (originally $70)
• Travel Select Amsterdam Softside Expandable Rolling Luggage , $43 (originally $66)
• Rockland Fashion Expandable Softside Upright Luggage Set , $28 (originally $95)
• AnyZip Carry On Luggage , $60 (originally $80)

U.S. Traveler Rio Lightweight Carry-on Suitcase Set

A two-piece luggage set is great whether you’re a heavy packer or heading off on a group trip and want to match. This classic softside suitcase is now 50 percent off and comes in 11 bright colors, so you may want to snag a set each for you and your favorite travel companion now.

AnyZip Carry On Luggage

Carry-on bags are a convenient way to ensure your items arrive with you (and in one piece). This 20-inch carry-on features stylish details like faux-leather bands that provide a chic look in a lightweight and durable package.

Best Amazon Prime Day Travel Bag Deals

Smaller bags, like duffels and totes , are another travel essential to keep all of your most important items easily available. Personal item bags like small duffels, backpacks, and totes are also perfect for road trips, train trips, and cruises. Versatile options like the Bagsmart Duffel Bag for Travel , Topbag Travel Duffle Bag , and Cluci Belt Bag are all on sale for under $30. 

• Rockland Duffel Bag , $17 (originally $30)
• Topbag Travel Duffle Bag , $24 (originally $29)
• Eddie Bauer Stowaway Packable 25L Cinch Tote , $26 (originally $40)
• Eddie Bauer Stowaway Packable 45L Duffel Bag , $33 (originally $55)
• Matein Garment Bag for Travel , $30 (originally $60)
• Ytonet Carry-on Garment Bag , $37 (originally $50)
• Modoker Convertible Garment Bag with Shoulder Strap , $47 (originally $55)
• Cluci Belt Bag , $17 (originally $30)
• Mintegra Women Shoulder Handbag , $27 (originally $60)
• Matein Travel Laptop Backpack , $29 (originally $43)
• Light Flight Travel Backpack , $29 with on-site coupon (originally $50)
• Adidas Defender 4 Medium Duffel Bag , $30 (originally $45)
• Puma Women’s Evercat Candidate Duffel Bag , $27 (originally $40)
• Bagsmart Puffer Tote Bag , $24 with on-site coupon (originally $40)
• Gonex Canvas Duffel Bag , $36 with on-site coupon (originally $50)
• AOTIAN Mini Backpack , $16 (originally $27)

Bagsmart Duffel Bag for Travel

A soft duffel like the Bagsmart Duffel Bag for Travel is a great choice for personal items and weekend trips alike. It’s durable, stylish, and fits everything you need for a quick trip. This duffel also features a water-resistant internal pocket where you can store toiletries knowing the rest of your items are protected in case of spills.

Matein Travel Laptop Backpack

A backpack is the perfect travel bag and we love a pack that features a padded laptop sleeve . This large backpack from Matein fits laptops up to 15.6 inches and features an external USB port, so you can discreetly charge your phone while you’re on the go. With adjustable padded straps and airflow back paneling, this bag is also a comfortable option for a long day of exploring a new city.

Best Amazon Prime Day Travel Accessories Deals

Staying organized while traveling requires more than just a high-quality bag. Packing cubes like the Veken 8 Set Packing Cubes are now 51 percent off (with additional on-site coupon) and provide plenty of size options so you can neatly store all your essentials. You’ll also find a lot of items to help make your travels more comfortable, like the EverSnug Travel Blanket and Pillow which is now just $20. Get the Jisulife Handheld Mini Fan , now for just $14, or the Napfun Neck Pillow now for just $14.

• Bagsmart Electronics Organizer Travel Case , $13 (originally $22)
• Ziploc Charm Accessory Bags , $5 (originally $10)
• Travelambo Wallet Women RFID Blocking Bifold , $8 (originally $15)
• Columbia Unisex Bora Bora Booney Fishing Hat , $26 (originally $30)
• Two-pack Cotton Turkish Beach Towels , $19 (originally $29)
• Jisulife Handheld Mini Fan , $14 (originally $25)
• General Medi Mini First Aid Kit , $10 (originally $20)
• Samsonite Printed Luggage Cover , $28 (originally $40)
• Napfun Neck Pillow , $14 with on-site coupon (originally $22)
• Sodsay 10 Pack Luggage Tags , $5 (originally $10)
• Yamiu Travel Shoe Bags , $10 (originally $22)
• Neutrogena Beach Defense Sunscreen Spray SPF 50 , $8 (originally $14)
• Travel Inspira Luggage Scale , $8 (originally $13)
• Kintion Pocket Mirror , $9 (originally $15)
• Fiskars Sewing Kit , $6 (originally $10)
• EverSnug Travel Blanket and Pillow , $20 (originally $35)
• Melsbrinna Passport Holder , $12 (originally $25)
• Bagail 8 Set Packing Cubes , $15 (originally $25)

Samsonite Manual Luggage Scale

We’ve all been that person standing to the side of check-in with an open suitcase trying to remove heavy items to meet airline weight restrictions. Eliminate those embarrassing situations and expedite your check-in process with the the Samsonite Manual Luggage Scale . It’s now on sale for just $8, so you can grab one to keep at home and another stashed in your luggage for the return trip.

Two-pack Cotton Turkish Beach Towels

Some seaside hotels may provide beach towels , but you can’t bank on it, so it’s a good idea to pack your own lightweight towel for your next beach vacation . These are ultrasoft and dry quickly, so you stay comfortable in the sand. This pack comes with two towels in colors of your choice and a stuff sack for each, so you can cleanly wrap them up after use.

Best Amazon Prime Day Travel Clothing Deals

Staying comfy on your flight is absolutely crucial, so you’ll want to pack lightweight, wrinkle-resistant clothing that you can also wear throughout your trip. Some of our favorite travel clothing from top brands like Lee and Cozy Earth are now on sale, and you can also get trendy denim like the Lee Women's Mid Rise Boyfriend Jean up to 36 percent off. Swimsuits like the Silkworld Men's Swim Trunks are now only $15, and the Charmo Womens One Piece Swimsuit is now just $37, so you can swim in style and comfort all summer long.

• Lee Women's Mid Rise Boyfriend Jean , $28 (originally $43)
• Lee Men's Regular Fit Straight Leg Jean , $23 (originally $37)
• Yesno Women Casual Loose Long Bib Pants , $28 (originally $35)
• Cozy Earth Lounge Socks , $44 (originally $55)
• Skechers Women's Go Walk Pant , $35 (originally $49)
• Baleaf Women's Lightweight Cardigan , $17 (originally $30)
• Puli Men's Lightweight Hiking Travel Pants , $31 (originally $55)
• Otu Men's Lightweight Waterproof Hooded Rain Jacket , $33 (originally $55)
• Northyard Men's Athletic Running Shorts , $22 (originally $35)
• Silkworld Men's Swim Trunks , $15 (originally $40)
• Running Girl Sports Bra , $19 (originally $30)
• Charmo Womens One Piece Swimsuit , $37 (originally $42)
• Bsubseach Women Long Sleeve Beach Shirt , $20 (originally $39)
• Prettygarden Womens 2 Piece Sweatsuits , $32 with on-site coupon (originally $50)
• Baleaf Women’s Hiking Pants , $30 (originally $56)
• Anrabess Women's Summer Casual Long T Shirt Dress , $27 with on-site coupon (originally $53)
• The Gym People Thick High Waist Yoga Pants , $20 (originally $30)
• Anrabess Women's Two Piece Outfit , $28 (originally $56)

Lee Women’s Mid Rise Boyfriend Jeans

These 99 percent cotton jeans from well-loved brand Lee are perfect for casual summer travel and now up to 30 percent off. They come in seven colorways and feature a stylish cuffed accent, so you can stock up on a few different colors now.

Cozy Earth Lounge Socks

Cozy Earth is known for products that are, well, cozy. From travel blankets to soft pajamas , this brand provides plenty of items you’ll want to snuggle up in and these socks are no exception. The Cozy Earth Lounge Socks come in packs of three and are now 20 percent off in all colorways.

Best Amazon Prime Day Comfortable Shoe Deals

When you’re traveling, a comfortable pair of walking shoes (or two) are essential. Whether you’re spending hours walking through a new city or just trying to get through TSA quickly, a pair of shoes with plenty of cushion and arch support are a must. Pairs from top brands like Dr. Scholl’s, Reebok, Crocs, and more are now on sale with prices starting at just $22. If you’re looking for a new pair of sneakers, try the Inzcou Running Shoes , or get some stylish flats like the Lifestride Women’s Diverse Flats . Even the Crocs Unisex-adult Classic Clogs are featured in Prime Day deals now.

• Dr. Scholl's Shoes Women's Webster Loafer , $40 (originally $85)
• Crocs Unisex-adult Classic Clogs , $31 (originally $50)
• Reebok Men's Walk Ultra 7 DMX Max Shoe , $46 (originally $80)
• Skechers Women's Squad , $39 (originally $67)
• Dream Pairs Womens Ballet Mary Jane Flats , $27 (originally $36)
• Skechers Women's D'lites Fresh Start Memory Foam Lace-up Sneaker , $47 (originally $74)
• Vamjam Men's Running Shoes , $35 (originally $46)
• Puma Women's Riaze Prowl Running Shoes , $37 (originally $85)
• Dr. Scholl's Shoes Women's Nova Sneaker , $43 (originally $80)
• Vilocy Men's Mesh Dress Sneakers , $40 (originally $60)
• Lifestride Women’s Diverse Flats , $50 (originally $65)
• Bruno Marc Men's KnitFlex Craft Mesh Oxfords Sneakers , $30 (originally $37)
• Dr. Scholl’s Shoes Madison Sneaker , $34 (originally $80)
• Inzcou Running Shoes , $30 (originally $51)
• Cushionaire Women's Luna Cork Footbed Sandal , $29 (originally $50)
• Clarks Breeze Sea Flip Flop , $33 (originally $55)

Reebok Men’s Walk Ultra 7 DMX Max Shoe

Clunky sneakers are in and there is no style more classic than Reebok’s Walk Ultra 7 DMX Max Shoe. This style is comfortable yet versatile, so you can wear it from day to night no matter what you have on your agenda. The sneakers come in 11 different colors, so you can find a pair that suits your style.

Dr. Scholl’s Shoes Women’s Nova Sneaker

Dr. Scholl’s is known for comfort and the Nova Sneakers do not disappoint. The slip-on style is perfect for making it through airport security, but they also provide plenty of support, so you shouldn’t feel foot fatigue at the end of a long day. They come in seventeen fun shades and patterns, too, so you can match each style to your many travel outfits.

Best Amazon Prime Day Hiking and Camping Gear Deals

Those who prefer backcountry adventures over city exploration know that durable tents , hiking packs, and headlamps can be essential travel items. Plenty of hiking and camping gear is now on sale, so you can prepare for your next overnighter under the stars. Don’t forget the smaller items like the $32 Odoland Camping Mess Kit and $14 Lhknl Headlamp 2-pack to elevate your camping experience.

• Clostnature Camping Tent , $36 (originally $50)
• Ecoopro Warm Weather Sleeping Bag , $24 (originally $40)
• Powerlix Ultralight Inflatable Sleeping Pad , $26 (originally $60)
• Syitcun Self-inflating Sleeping Mats for Camping, 2 Person , $47 (originally $60)
• Portable Camping Kitchen Utensil Set , $39 with on-site coupon (originally $65)
• 4Monster Camping Towels , $16 with on-site coupon (originally $25)
• Odoland Camping Mess Kit , $32 (originally $50)
• Lhknl Headlamp , $14 (originally $25)
• Moxils Sleeping Pad , $26 (originally $40)
• Hapluluy Camping Kitchen Cooking Set , $26 (originally $37)
• Lifestraw Personal Water Filter , $10 (originally $20)
• Cherainti Hydration Bladder , $12 (originally $20)
• Monocular Telescope High Power 8x42 , $37 (originally $46)
• Wakeman 2 Person Camping Tent , $23 (originally $30)

Ecoopro Warm Weather Sleeping Bag

Sleeping bags don’t have to be expensive, but they do have to be high-quality, which is why the Ecoopro Warm Weather Sleeping Bag is perfect for new campers and experienced backpackers alike. This compact bag packs down to just 11 inches tall and weighs less than two pounds, so you can store it in just about any day pack.

Lifestraw Personal Water Filter

When you’re camping at your nearest state or national park, clean water sources will likely be available, but for backcountry campers and hikers, a Lifestraw Personal Water Filter can be a literal lifesaver — and it’s now 50 percent off. The Lifestraw water filter can be placed directly into any water source (like a river or stream) for drinking, or placed in your water bottle to instantly filter any water into safe drinking water. The slim design easily slips into any bag without sacrificing precious pack weight.

Best Amazon Prime Day Tech Deals

I don’t remember the last flight I boarded without my headphones and cellphone for in-flight (and beyond) entertainment. High-quality headphones like the Tune520BT Wireless On-ear Headphones from top brand JBL are now on sale for just $40. Luggage trackers can bring peace of mind to people who prefer checking their luggage, so Apple AirTags are now just $24 while the four-pack of Atuvos Luggage Trackers are on sale for $40.

• UGREEN Bluetooth 5.2 Transmitter Adapter for Headphones , $24 (originally $30)
• Bmanl Wireless Earbuds , $23 with on-site coupon (originally $50)
• JBL Tune520BT Wireless On-ear Headphones , $40 (originally $50) 
• Portable Charger for Apple Watch , $10 (originally $20)
• Topsung Two Way Radios , $20 (originally $43)
• Oontz Angle 3 Bluetooth Speaker , $20 (originally $40)
• Atuvos Luggage Tracker Four Pack , $40 (originally $50)
• Emdmak Door Stop Alarm , $12 (originally $18)
• Kosin Safe Sound Personal Alarm, Six Pack , $15 (originally $25)
• BolaButty Bluetooth Speaker , $20 (originally $60)
• Berisbes Bluetooth Headphones , $20 (originally $36)
• Bluetooth Headphones Over Ear , $16 with on-site coupon (originally $33)
• Magnetic Wireless Charger for iPhone , $20 (originally $40)
• Perilogics Universal in Flight Airplane Phone Holder Mount , $10 (originally $18)
• Beshone Flat Plug Travel Strip , $10 (originally $17)

JBL Tune520BT Wireless On-ear Headphones

After converting to on-ear headphones, I won’t fly without them. At 20 percent off, the JBL Tune520BT Wireless On-ear Headphones block plenty of sounds even when music isn’t playing, so you can enjoy a more peaceful flight. They also have an incredible 57 hours of battery life, so you don’t have to worry about charging them in the middle of your travels, even with long layovers.

Oontz Angle 3 Bluetooth Speaker

Nothing gets the party going like your own music, and this portable speaker allows you to bump your playlist whether you’re getting ready in your hotel room or enjoying a picnic in the park . The Oontz Angle 3 Bluetooth Speaker is compatible with both Apple and Android phones, has an IPX5 water-resistance rating, and features a battery life of up to 14 hours.

Be sure to check out these deals during the Prime Day Sale July 16-17.  

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.

Shop More T+L-Approved Picks

Related Articles