The Best Duffel Bags For Traveling
So you're planning to hit the road, huh? You're not the only one. What our travels have taught us is that, for some types of journeys, a suitcase is overkill and a backpack simply isn't enough. That's where the trusty duffel bag comes in handy. This no-frills bag is as versatile as they come, and there are high-quality options available at every price point. We're here to help you find the perfect one for your needs.
What to Look For
During our research, we determined that there are three key qualities that go into a good duffel bag: durability, ease of access, and comfort. Few things can slow the tempo of an adventure more than having to stop and fiddle with a crummy bag. So if you’re just looking for an affordable duffel bag that you can rely on, Herschel’s iconic duffel is our recommendation. For something a bit more heavy-duty, Thule’s Chasm bag is hard to beat. Its weatherproof materials make it a great option for anyone who thinks they could get caught in inclement weather during their travels. To learn more about these and the rest of our favorites, keep on reading.
Herschel Novel Duffel Bag
Stylishly understated
Herschel’s line of backpacks and travel bags took the market by storm not too long ago, and they’ve been ubiquitous ever since. That’s mostly due to the company’s ability to produce high-quality bags at a mid-tier price point. This duffel demonstrates that perfectly with its top-notch hardware, tough fabric material, and lovely leather detailing. This duffel embodies the sleek, minimalist design that defines Herschel’s products, and we’re big fans.
Pros:
- We love that there are so many color varieties on offer here. Thanks to that, you’ll be able to choose the one that best suits your tastes.
- If the 42-liter option is too big for you, there’s also a 33-liter duffel available. The latter is a better choice for short getaways or even for daily use at the gym.
Cons:
- It would be nice if this duffel had more pockets and compartments to help organize the bag’s contents.
Rothco GI-Style Canvas Duffel Bag
Ready, aim, travel
Above all else, military-style gear is typically designed with one key quality in mind: efficiency. That’s true of Rothco’s GI-style duffel, which is free of any frills or design gimmicks you might find on some other duffels. Constructed with heavyweight cotton canvas, quality hardware, and sturdy carrying straps, this bag is ready for any excursion. Take it on a camping trip, flight, or hitch-hiking adventure — whatever the occasion, this streamlined bag will be ready.
Pros:
- The side button-snap pocket is pretty nifty. It can hold small items like maps, travel documents, or snacks, for example.
- Thanks to the heavyweight canvas, this bag can take a beating. That means that you won’t have to baby it.
Cons:
- Not everybody is going to like the top-load design. For those used to front-loading duffels, this may take some getting used to.
Thule Chasm Sport Duffel Bag
Come rain or shine
Duffels aren’t often thought of as appropriate for adventure-heavy travels, but Thule is here to challenge that. Made of waterproof tarpaulin fabric, the Chasm bag is not only rugged — it’s completely waterproof. What sets this apart from other duffels is that it can be converted from a duffel to a backpack. That means you can sling it over your shoulder when you need to or strap it to your back when you want to go hands-free. Anyone who expects to do a combination of city and adventure travel would be wise to check out the Chasm.
Pros:
- The wide-mouth opening makes it really easy to access the bag’s contents quickly.
- Some duffels don’t have any organizational compartments, but this one has mesh pockets so that you can keep your essentials organized.
Cons:
- It is a bit heavier than most duffels, but we hardly think it’s a deal breaker.
The North Face Base Camp Duffel
Today, tomorrow, and always
Designed with 100% ballistic nylon, this duffel is designed for anyone looking for a bag that’ll last. Thanks to its high-quality materials and its superb stitching, it’s as tough as they come, and its design features also make it one of the most versatile duffels on the market. It can be worn as a traditional duffel using the adjustable shoulder strap, or it can be worn as a backpack. And thanks to a mesh sleeve and a zippered-off compartment, you can keep your toiletries and dirty clothes separate from the rest of your belongings.
Pros:
- We love that this bag has a sealed-off compartment that can be unzipped to store shoes and dirty clothes. Aside from helping you keep things organized, this can also prevent the buildup of odors.
- The inclusion of four compression straps means you can cinch your bag down to a small bundle, even when it’s jam-packed.
Cons:
- It is a bit pricey, but if you travel often or you want to invest in a duffel for the long run, we think it’s more than worth it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What defines a duffel bag?
Typically, a duffel bag has a cylindrical shape, a shoulder strap, and opens from the top. These aren’t hard and fast rules, though — it’s more a case of “you know it when you see it.”
What’s the best material for a duffel bag?
This depends on how plan to use your duffel. If you’re an adventurer going on trips in unpredictable climates, a waterproof material might be useful. For more traditional travel, canvas is usually a great option.
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