Wellness Meets Adventure: 4 Luxe Ocean Escapes With Year-Round Watersports
Grace Bay Snorkel Sails in Turks & Caicos take guests straight to the barrier reef for underwater exploration.
Caicos Luxury Charters
When it comes to restorative travel, some seek a meditative escape to a quiet yoga retreat, complete with sound baths and saunas. Others, meanwhile, crave a little more pampering, specifically, at a globally-renowned spa destination, with full access to cutting-edge treatments.
But some wanderlusters believe the ultimate wellness retreat centers on watersports. The health benefits of practicing watersports are endless. Kayaking and snorkeling can enhance cardiovascular health, while paddleboarding and water biking help improve balance and coordination.
Booking a resort with on-site watersports, kayaking and catamarans ensures a vacation filled with cardio-friendly sea activities.
Grace Bay Club
Boating and sailing activities offer a literal breath of fresh air and immerse you in nature—providing numerous upgrades to mental health. All in all, simply being surrounded by calm, crystal-clear waters can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.
Thankfully, beach hotels and resorts around the world are offering on-site watersports as amenities and access to curated sea excursions as add-on packages. From the turquoise waters of the Caribbean to the vibrant shores of Florida and Hawaii, these destinations offer sun, sea, and adventure all year-round. The best part? These very activities bring a dose of holistic health to your luxurious getaway.
The luxury fleet at Turks & Caicos gives guests access to island excursions, like a nature walk around Iguana Island.
Caicos Luxury Charters
Turks and Caicos is a haven for travelers seeking both relaxation and exploration—and many resorts are aiming to distinguish themselves from other Caribbean hotspots by teaming up with companies that deliver seamless and ultra-luxurious experiences. Caicos Luxury Charters, for example, has redefined what luxury on the water looks like in the region. Its newest vessel, Princess Grace, is a 65-foot custom-built catamaran offering elevated experiences such as private snorkel sails, three-course sunset dinners, an on-board photographer, and day charters. Outfitted with teak decks, indoor-outdoor seating, and a full-service bar, the crew prepares top-notch cuisine to enjoy on board throughout the day.
'Princess Grace was designed to offer travelers both—a luxury experience on the water, and the chance to see Turks & Caicos the way locals do,' says Jason Campbell SVP of Corporate Business and Development of Red Hospitality and Leisure, a luxury watersports operator.
The top experience to book on the Princess Grace? The Deluxe Half-Day Snorkel, which gives passengers the opportunity to explore the Turks and Caicos Barrier Reef.
Feeling the need for speed? Caicos Luxury Charters also operates high-performance Axopar 37' Suntop powerboats, full-day sails to North Caicos, and private jet ski tours that explore hidden coves and secluded sandbars. The brand's custom excursions include a private jet ski excursion that showcases the island far beyond the typical resort view.
From recreation to relaxation, the villas at Rock House have private terraces complete with infinity pools and stunning views of the north shore.
Rock House
Where to Stay:
Where to Dine:
As for dining highlights around the islands, check out Coco Bistro where you can dine under the palm trees, Bay Bistro to savor the best and freshest seafood, and Omar's Beach Hut for local and authentic flavors.
Cruz Bay offers Turtle & Tapas tours, where travelers can snorkel natural turtle habitats.
Cruz Bay Watersports
St. Thomas balances relaxed island energy and refined coastal luxury, making it a standout destination for travelers exploring the region by sea. At the heart of the experience is Cruz Bay Watersports, which partners with top resorts to offer high-end catamaran and powerboat excursions.
The fleet includes sleek luxury catamarans like the Flying Frenchman and Lady Lynsey II—ideal for champagne sunset sails and multi-island day trips—as well as high-performance Axopar powerboats for those seeking a faster, more private itinerary. Whether it's a leisurely cruise with a three-course dinner or a full-day island-hop with snorkeling stops, each outing is designed to feel personal, not prepackaged.
With quick hops to St. John, Tortola, and Jost Van Dyke, guests can visit multiple islands in a single day. For those looking to venture farther, Cruz Bay's private itineraries stretch deep into the BVI, blending gourmet dining, reef diving, and quiet anchorages into one seamless luxurious adventure.
Be sure to Discover the Baths of Virgin Gorda, BVI, which is an unforgettable full-day (8-hour) adventure to the Baths at Virgin Gorda begins with an array of delectable morning pastries, followed by a day-long adventure hiking and exploring through boulders at the Baths, relaxing in turquoise blue waters, and snorkeling the caves of Norman Island. Guests snorkel through the caves known to be the inspiration for Robert Louis Stevenson's classic Treasure Island.
Waterfront sports amenities at the Buoy House St Thomas.
Buoy House St Thomas
Where To Stay:
Where to Dine:
Between all the adventures, the Flying Frenchman and Axopar actually make stops at dining hotspots like Lime Out floating taco bar in USVI, Pizza Pi (but bring cash) in USVI, and the famous Soggy Dollar Bar in Jost Van Dyke, BVI.
Other dining highlights include Isla Blue, a tropical dining oasis offering refined Caribbean cuisine, and the Salt Shack, a beachside eatery serving locally-inspired bites.
Explore the Alii Nui Maui signature experiences and private charters, designed for couples, friends and families.
Alii Nui
Maui blends dramatic coastlines, crystal waters, and the warmth of the Aloha Spirit into one of the most memorable sailing destinations in the Pacific. Ali'i Nui Sailing Charters has long been a favorite among travelers for its marine experiences—and in 2024, it introduced its newest catamaran, the custom-built Ali'i Kai.
From guided snorkel trips to the protected waters of Molokini Crater (where you can swim near Hawaiian Honu turtles!), to relaxed sunset sails with a full buffet and open bar, Ali'i Nui's outings are built around breathtaking scenery. During whale season (December through April), the company also runs humpback whale-watching cruises, with sightings often just yards from the vessel.
Magnificent whale-watching opportunities with Alii Nui Maui.
Alii Nui Maui
With the launch of Ali'i Kai, the company brings added range and capacity to its signature excursions, while staying rooted in the same calm, curated style that has made it a standout for years.
Where to Stay:
Where to Dine:
First, Mama's Fish House, which is renowned for its fresh seafood and beachfront location. For a fun sit-down, Merriman's Maui offers farm-to-table dishes with stunning ocean views. Last but not least, Cool Cat Café is a casual spot known for its award-winning burgers.
Sail, swim and snorkel in Key West aboard the Marquesa.
Key West Sebago
Key West delivers a unique blend of tropical ease and high-energy adventure, with turquoise waters, historic charm, and a vibrant food scene all within reach. Sebago Watersports anchors much of the island's action on the water, offering everything from fast-paced excursions to relaxed coastal cruises.
Their Power Adventure package is a go-to for thrill-seekers—combining parasailing, jet skiing, banana boat rides, and more into a three-hour circuit departing from the historic seaport.
For something slower-paced, the Lazy Lady Tiki Boat, a 53-foot floating lounge with shaded seating and a full sound system, sets the tone for a more social, sunset-ready experience. The company also offers private transfers for groups of up to 12, ideal for customizing itineraries or simply avoiding the crowds.
After a day on the water, Key West's walkable downtown and vibrant culinary scene offer the perfect counterbalance—equal parts casual and eclectic, just like the island itself.
Last but not least, enjoy exclusive transportation for groups up to 12 people.
Where to Stay:
If you want to fuse cuisine into your adventure, check out Key West Sebago's Ragin' Cajun Seafood Snorkel.
Key West Sebago
Dining Highlights:
End the trip with a night of upscale dining at Hot Tin Roof, where the menu focuses on local seafood. Check out El Siboney for its authentic Cuban cuisine in a casual setting. And for a quick bite between all the activities, stop by Garbo's Grill, a food truck offering Korean BBQ tacos.
If you're seeking an unforgettable escape with sea-driven activities these seaside destinations offer year-round escapes to suit every traveler's desires. The best part? These adventurous hotspots still incorporate luxurious high-end amenities and culinary meals in-between all the water sports and adventures, ensuring travels achieve the relaxation and holistic wellness they need.
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R ich in literary history and filled lively pubs, Dublin is one of the most popular cities to visit in Europe. It's home to many fabulous hotels that can match any budget and travel style. The best hotels in Dublin range from historic grand dames to charming boutique hotels to value-friendly hot spots—and nearly every single one offers a fantastic afternoon tea. To choose from Dublin's finest stays, I used my own personal experience and tapped Lydia Rumberger, an Ireland specialist at Audley Travel, for insights. Our top overall pick is the superbly located The Westbury, while The Merrion Hotel is the city's best luxury stay. Boutique lovers will appreciate The Wilder Townhouse, while art and design lovers will want to check in to The Fitzwilliam Hotel and The Leinster. Below, the best hotels in Dublin in 2025. Lobby at The Westbury. The Westbury Who Will Love It: Stylish travelers who want a central location close to the heart of the action All-Star Amenities: Four dining venues; an exercise suite; Aromatherapy Associates toiletries; chauffeur service What Not To Miss: Afternoon tea is a beloved local affair Location: Dublin 2 Just off shopping-heavy Grafton Street and close to both Trinity College and St. Stephen's Green, The Westbury offers a superb location right in the heart of Dublin's action. Guest rooms here feel both luxurious and modern, and there's an overall unfussy atmosphere (locals can often be spotted enjoying the afternoon tea), which is immediately noticeable in the property's lively, colorful lobby. The service is meticulous but non-obtrusive; every guest's name is memorized at check-in, and you can expect to be greeted by staff as an old friend. While the hotel doesn't have a spa, pool or gym (there is, however, an exercise suite), the effort put into its four dining outlets more than makes up for it. The all-day bistro Balfes, with its cozy outdoor terrace, is a prime people-watching perch, and the 1930s-style cocktail bar The Sidecar is ideal for a pre-dinner drink or two. Junior suite at The Merrion Hotel. The Merrion Hotel Who Will Love It: Luxury seekers; foodies All-Star Amenities: Manicured gardens; a world-class art collection; expansive wellness offerings; a variety of culinary concepts What Not To Miss: A special meal at Patrick Guilbaud, Dublin's first two-starred Michelin restaurant Location: Georgian Dublin This 142-room luxury property in the heart of Dublin's Georgian district is a collection of four townhouses dressed up with genteel interiors that deliver a historic and refined atmosphere. Its interior gardens and courtyards provide a lovely escape from the city—as does its tranquil spa—and the property's central location puts guests within easy walking distance of various Dublin landmarks such as St. Stephen's Green and the National Gallery. When it comes to its culinary offerings, no hotel in Dublin (or maybe even Ireland) can compare: The Merrion Hotel is home to the country's first two-starred Michelin restaurant, Patrick Guilbaud. More casual meals await at the Cellar Bar; while modern Irish fare can be savored at the Garden Room. The hotel is also known for its fabled afternoon tea, during which pastries served are modeled after the various artworks found throughout the property. Best Historic Hotel In Dublin: The Shelbourne, Autograph Collection Suite at The Shelbourne, Autograph Collection. The Shelbourne, Autograph Collection The Shelbourne, Autograph Collection Who Will Love It: History buffs; those seeking a classic luxury experience All-Star Amenities: 60-foot pool; six different dining venues What Not To Miss: The massive gym, likely the best gym in Dublin Location: St. Stephen's Green For history buffs, The Shelbourne, built in 1824, is Dublin's most historic stay. The hotel hosted one of the most important events in the country's history—the drafting of the Irish Free State Constitution in 1922. Over the years, it's also been the hotel of choice for countless notable figures, from English novelist William Thackeray to former First Lady Michelle Obama. Today, The Shelbourne is the largest five-star hotel in the Irish capital, with 265 rooms (19 of them suites), all of which are classically luxurious. The laundry list of public spaces found here run the gamut, from the opulent Lord Mayor's Lounge (famous for afternoon tea) to the guest-exclusive 1824 bar (a handsome destination for a nightcap) to the sumptuous spa, a hideaway that might make you forget you're in the heart of a historic European city. Best Value Hotel In Dublin: The Dean The Punkbunk room at The Dean. Courtesy of The Dean The Dean Who Will Love It: Hip travelers who prefer a bustling atmosphere All-Star Amenities: Modern gym; pool and sauna; live music at the lobby bar What Not To Miss: Cocktails and views at Sophie's, the rooftop bar and restaurant Location: Dublin 2 The Dean has gained a reputation for its party atmosphere, and it doesn't come undeserved: Sophie's, the property's rooftop restaurant, and The Dean Bar, found in the hotel's lobby, are often lively with guests—both local and visiting. 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Courtesy of The Wilder Townhouse The Wilder Townhouse Who Will Love It: Couples and solo travelers who value an intimate setting and quirky design All-Star Amenities: Eco-friendly Hopal bath products; an impressive gin collection What Not To Miss: The full Irish breakfast in the Garden Room Location: Dublin 2 Forty-two rooms and suites can be found within The Wilder Townhouse, a red-brick Victorian-era building in fashionable Dublin 2, just a five-minute stroll from St. Stephen's Green. While this intimate boutique hotel is definitely on the snug side (a spa or a full-service restaurant won't be found here), it offers character and quirkiness in spades: Guests can expect to find a ceramic pig sitting on their fireplace, a gorgeous floral-print couch in their living quarters, an antique vanity table next to the bed and a beguiling standalone soaking tub in each room. 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From individually decorated rooms to its legendary freshly prepared breakfast, a stay here is curated with thoughtfulness and warmth. Guest rooms are spread between a gorgeous Georgian townhouse and modernist mews that are connected by a beautiful private garden; townhouse rooms feature grand historic details like intricate tile work and elaborate stucco moldings. Couples in particular will feel as if they're in their own private hideaway, where no request is too large. Best Hotel For Families In Dublin: The Grafton Hotel Family Room at The Grafton. Andrew Bradley Photography The Grafton Hotel Who Will Love It: Families who want a central, convenient location All-Star Amenities: Four different dining venues; various sustainability efforts (including beehives on the rooftop) What Not To Miss: The Family Rooms (which can sleep up to six) are the best in Dublin Location: Dublin 2 Located near several major Dublin attractions, The Grafton is all about convenience. The modern, glitzy design of its 128 rooms—plus its collection of lively dining venues and bars—might attract adult groups and couples, but its thoughtful amenities make it an ideal stay for families, too. The Family Rooms here are efficiently organized so they can accommodate either four or six people, and all of them feature the same vibrant and colorful style found in other room categories. The Grafton also offers a wide number of packages with traveling families in mind, the most popular of which is the Dublin Zoo package, which comes with a family pass to the zoo. Various other seasonal family-friendly promotions typically include treats and gifts for kids as well as the occasional complimentary cocktail for parents. Best Hotel In Dublin For Design Lovers: The Fitzwilliam Hotel Guest room at The Fitzwilliam Hotel. The Fitzwilliam Hotel The Fitzwilliam Hotel Who Will Love It: Design lovers seeking a stylish stay All-Star Amenities: Murdock toiletries; Michelin-starred dining at Glovers Alley What Not To Miss: The views of St. Stephens Green Location: Dublin 2 With beautifully designed rooms replete with vibrant hues, bold patterns and inviting fabrics, The Fitzwilliam Hotel has gained a loyal following—Beyoncé once booked out the property for herself and her entourage for a full week. It also happens to be Rumberger's top recommendation in Dublin thanks to its excellent location. 'It's an oasis from the hustle and bustle thanks to the private courtyard in its center,' she says. 'At the same time, it's only a moments' walk to the heart of the city.' Guests here can expect contemporary design at every turn, from Italian furniture to limestone bathtubs. Not to be missed is a meal at Michelin-starred Glover's Alley (named for the glove makers who once ran businesses in the neighborhood), which features an expectedly stylish dining room bathed in rosy pink. Best Hotel In Dublin For Art Lovers: The Leinster The Rico Suite at The Leinster. Courtesy of The Leinster The Leinster Who Will Love It: Culture seekers looking to wine, dine and gallery hop All-Star Amenities: Steam room and sauna; Brooks & Co bathroom amenities; an impressive art collection What Not To Miss: The Collins Club for cocktails and live music Location: Georgian Dublin With its gallery-worthy art collection and Ireland's first restaurant by acclaimed French chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, it's not surprising that The Leinster draws a creative crowd. The 55-room boutique property, which opened on Merrion Square last spring, is conveniently situated just steps away from Dublin's best art galleries and museums, including the National Gallery. The hotel also features an impeccably curated collection of 300 original artworks, including a piece by Damien Hirst behind the concierge desk. Rooms here feel like an extension of the exhibition, with botanical-themed paintings and a mix of eye-catching patterns and materials. When you're done perusing, the rooftop restaurant, which features Jean-Georges' take on Irish classics with the a view of Georgian Dublin, is the place to be. Best Hotel In Dublin For Spa And Wellness: Anantara The Marker Dublin Spa pool at The Anantara Marker. Courtesy of The Anantara Marker Anantara The Marker Dublin Who Will Love It: Wellness lovers who appreciate holistic Thai-inspired spa treatments All-Star Amenities: Rooftop lounge with fantastic views; a 75-foot long pool; three food and drink concepts What Not To Miss: Yoga on the rooftop Location: Docklands Thai-based hotel brand Anantara's exciting expansion into Europe includes this modern 187-room hotel in Dublin's Docklands district—known as the city's tech hub. Bedrooms are sleek and service is friendly, but the stars of the show are the wellness offerings, all inspired by holistic Thai healing. Unique services include facials that use fermented black tea to smooth the skin as well as the Thai Qi massage, a rubdown that stretches and soothes the muscle with an herbal compress. Beyond pampering services, the hotel also offers exhilarating wild swimming excursions in various picturesque waters near Dublin. Why Trust Forbes Vetted The Forbes Vetted travel team has researched, written and published dozens of hotel guides featuring cities across the globe. The travel section is managed by senior travel editor, Astrid Taran, a 7-year industry veteran who's visited over 40 countries, including multiple trips to Ireland and Dublin. She most recently stayed at The Dean in spring 2024. This story was edited by deputy editor Jane Sung, who oversees the travel vertical. For this story, Taran spoke with Lydia Rumberger, an Ireland specialist at Audley Travel. Rumberger shared insights on the best Dublin neighborhoods to stay in, as well as her own personal hotel recommendations. How We Chose The Best Hotels In Dublin We selected the top contenders based on personal stays as well as extensive research. For this story, Taran spent hours combing through reviews on TripAdvisor, hotel websites and more. We included options for a wide variety of travel styles, including family-friendly properties and more intimate, adult-oriented boutiques. We also included properties across a wide variety of different neighborhoods and price ranges. More Travel Stories
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Travel + Leisure
3 hours ago
- Travel + Leisure
We Made It Rain On These Waterproof Duffels—These 8 Didn't Let Any Water In
I have a dedicated travel purse I use to commute to work, and whenever I get caught in the rain, I regularly stress about whether my laptop will get ruined from water seeping into the bag. So I can imagine how frustrating it must be to accidentally wet or ruin your belongings on a trip you've been looking forward to. This is where owning a waterproof duffel makes all the difference. Waterproof duffel bags offer a great line of defense against rainy and muddy conditions, and can keep your things protected should they accidentally get splashed during a ferry ride or get caught in a sudden downpour. The difference between a solid waterproof duffel and a regular duffel bag all comes down to the material, since the outer fabric of the bag determines whether it will let any water through or not. That doesn't only include its fabric, but what its zipper is made of, too. One of the bags I tested during T+L's waterproof duffel lab test was waterproof everywhere except near the zippers, allowing water to seep in—no good! To help you avoid the unnecessary frustration of buying a waterproof duffel only to find out it isn't so waterproof, we tested a few bags in our New York City lab and evaluated them based on their capacity, design, portability, waterproofing, durability, and value. Here are our favorites. If you regularly participate in outdoor activities, there's a reason you can spot Osprey bags literally everywhere. Known for their durability, the bags are built tough but comfortable to carry, and we found that the Transporter Waterproof Duffel is no different. After testing, it nabbed our top spot for its excellent waterproofing and sturdy build. Despite its sturdiness, the bag is really lightweight, even though it's large enough to hold 70 liters (meaning you'll have to check it for flights). You can pack it a ton, so it does get heavier the more you stuff it, but we were able to fit three pairs of shoes (including a chunky pair of hiking boots) in addition to clothes and toiletries without a problem. The inside of the bag is one large main compartment with two compression straps that have a medium-sized mesh pocket attached to it. This pocket can be handy for smaller accessories, like your sunglasses or cellphone, or to separate dirty socks and underwear from the rest of your things. The bag closes using a large zipper that may feel stiff at first, but just requires a little extra effort to operate. That's because its construction is tough to keep water from seeping through it, which did happen with one of the other duffels we tested, so it's a trade-off we don't mind. The zipper opening is also pretty wide, so you can fit things into the bag without struggling to get them in there. That being said, the duffel's opening isn't wide enough to get a bird's eye view of what's in the bag, so on some occasions you may need to shuffle things around to find what you're looking for. What we did find super impressive, though, is that not even a drop of water made it into the bag after we placed it under a rain shower. In fact, it boasts an IPX7 rating, which means it can be submerged in up to a meter of water for up to 30 minutes. Made from nylon, the bag's fabric is really durable, too. After dropping and dragging it, it didn't show any scuffs or other signs of damage. If you opt to travel with this duffel, you can hold it two ways: as a backpack (the straps are padded to make them more comfy), or like a traditional duffel bag. The Details: 11.81 x 15.35 x 27.56 inches | 2.478 pounds | 70 liter capacity | Double TPU-coated recycled nylon Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Amazon $230 at Amazon View on REI View on Made with several adjustable straps and an expandable build, the Peak Design Travel Duffelpack is easy to pack and carry. At minimum, it features 45 liters of carrying capacity, but if you need to pack a few more things, the bag can expand to hold 65 liters max. In fact, during testing we were able to stuff the bag with five tops, two bottoms, three pairs each of socks and underwear, a sweater, jacket, and sneakers, plus a dopp kit and water bottle. The bag's opening, which closes with a zipper that runs the length of the bag, also opens up very wide to give you great visibility into what's inside. While the duffel itself is lightweight, it can become pretty heavy when packed. However, the bag is designed with padded shoulder, chest, and waist straps to help distribute its weight evenly when carrying it. This makes the bag a lot more comfortable to lug around on your back. The straps can be easily tucked away when not in use, too, so you don't need to worry about them getting in the way. 'The shoulder straps and grab handles absorb water—and they stayed wet long after the testing period,' said associate testing editor Danielle Calma. Still, we like that the bag is durable and pretty sturdy. It didn't show any signs of wear after we dropped it on the ground several times. The Details: 26 x 15 x 12 inches (standard), 26 x 17 x 13 inches (expanded) | 3.9 pounds | 65 liter capacity | Recycled nylon, anodized aluminum, glass-reinforced nylon (hardware) Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure While a structured design can provide direction for how to organize your bag, an unstructured bag like the Matador Freefly Duffle gives you more control over how and where you pack things. Its flexible build can allow you to quite literally pack it to the brim by taking advantage of every nook and cranny. The Freefly has a 30-liter capacity, so it's best used as a personal item bag, or for day or weekend trips. Best of all, the bag can be folded down to fit into a pouch. 'This bag is shockingly lightweight,' says associate editor Anna Popp. 'Because it's foldable and packable, it has a very lightweight and unstructured design, which is amazing for portability.' The duffel itself is just one large main compartment, but its zippers open up wide, which make it easy to pack and to see what's inside. When we tested the bag under wet conditions, the materials inside stayed dry for the most part, but we did find that some moisture did creep in where the zippers met. There wasn't enough water for it to be a concern, but if you prefer a bag that can handle being submerged, this isn't it. When it comes to moving with it, the Matador Freefly can be worn as a backpack or tossed over the shoulder like a traditional duffel. Its carrying handles are rubberized, which allows for a comfortable, soft grip. The backpack straps, on the other hand, aren't padded, so we found that the bag was more pleasant to hold than to wear as a backpack. The Details: 3.75 x 3.7 x 5.5 inches | 8.5 ounces | 30 liter capacity | 70D Robic nylon, 50D nylon mini ripstop, 210D bonded nylon thread Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Amazon $330 at Amazon View on REI $330 $264 at Backcountry Durable, but light as a 'heavy-duty rain jacket,' the NRS Expedition DriDuffel 70L Dry Bag is incredibly spacious and fully waterproof. In fact, like the Osprey, it's earned an IPX7 rating. Designed with one easy-to-pack main compartment, the bag has a carrying capacity of 70 liters. It also features carabiners on the outside, so you can attach small items, like a flashlight, keys, or even a water bottle. It closes using a slick zipper that's easy to zip and unzip, but the zipper is watertight and toothless, so it doesn't let any water in, even if the bag ends up submerged in water. After thoroughly wetting the bag, we didn't observe any moisture inside the bag. However, we did notice that the duffel's carrying handles remained wet for quite a while after getting rained on. The bag itself is made of TPU-coated nylon that's very tough. 'It shows no signs of wear and tear—I even stepped on it at one point and it shows no marks,' said T+L editor Taylor Fox. The duffel is designed with a shoulder strap and a carrying handle, so that you can switch up the way you hold it. The shoulder strap even has padding that can be moved around and set wherever you prefer. You'll also find loop handles on each side of the bag you can grab whenever you need to lift the duffel up onto a surface. If you don't love the gray (smoke) option, you can also shop it in a red (salsa) or blue (Mykonos). The Details: 28 x 15.25 x 11.75 inches | 2.13 pounds | 70 liter capacity | TPU-coated 840-denier heavy-duty nylon Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure While this massive 140-liter bag is technically a duffel, it also functions as checked luggage. That's because it's one of the largest suitcases we've seen out of the 700+ travel bags we've tested. To make it easier to move around, the bag is designed with two wheels that allow you to roll it, or stand it on its own. During testing, we were able to pack the duffel with clothing for ten days (including a rain jacket and a puffer jacket), four pairs of boots, a tent, and two hiking chairs. In fact, it's so wide and spacious, senior testing editor Jackie Cucco says could climb right in and lay in it. " It is definitely one of the largest checked suitcases I have ever seen out of the 700+ travel bags we've tested, even when compared to traditional checked suitcases," she adds. If not used for a long trip, the duffel may also be ideal if you're packing for an entire family, group outings, or trips where you need to pack a ton of gear, like a boating trip where you'll be snorkeling. What's even more impressive about this bag is that it's very water-resistant despite its larger size. After getting wet, the water that got on the bag beaded up and rolled right off of the plastic-y fabric. We didn't find that any water snuck in through the zippers, either, something we experienced with some of the other duffels on this list. This bag is one of the heaviest duffels we've tested, but if you compare its weight against other checked luggage, it's actually pretty lightweight. Though it can be worn as a backpack or carried like a traditional duffel, it's probably best to only do so occasionally and not for extended periods of time. The easiest way to transport the bag is probably to wheel it like a traditional suitcase, and luckily, we found that the wheels are very sturdy. We rolled the duffel over carpet, up onto pavers, and through stanchions meant to look like an airport waiting line, and the wheels never lagged or felt uneven. The Details: 14.2 x 38.6 x 17.7 inches | 112.5 ounces | 85, 110, and 140 liter capacity | Polyester, aluminium (floor plate) Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Rains $110 $100 at Amazon $110 at Nordstrom View on While many of the waterproof duffels we've tested sport more rugged looks, the Rains Hilo Weekend Bag features a modern minimalist design that makes it the most stylish bag on this list. While it is a bit smaller than most of our other waterproof duffel options, it can comfortably carry up to 36 liters. During testing, we were even able to pack it with bulkier items, including a pair of hiking boots and a foldable hiking chair. While the bag isn't designed with any pockets (just one large main compartment), it is made with compression straps that can be used to secure the items you pack. They also help to minimize the size of the bag, allowing you to easily fit it under an airplane seat if you want to use it as a personal bag. The bag is designed to handle light rain, and we found that this is pretty accurate. When we showered the duffel in water for 30 seconds, we didn't find that anything in the bag got wet or moist immediately after. In fact, the water turned into beads once it hit the bag's surface, and streamed off, as if it were running down a window pane of glass. The bag's zipper is also pretty smooth, even though it's coated with waterproof material. Like a number of our other bags, the duffel's handles did stay wet for a while. While the bag's fabric is thin, we found that it felt very durable, and would likely be very difficult to tear or rip. We didn't notice any scuffs or scratches on the bag after we repeatedly pushed it off a table during our drop test. Carrying the bag is pretty easy, as its lower carrying capacity makes it lightweight, but it's also designed with an adjustable shoulder strap that can be shortened or made longer to accommodate people of different heights. The Details: 20.5 in x 10.6 in x 10.2 inches | 28.9 ounces | 36 liter capacity | Polyester Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: SealLine $355 at Amazon View on REI View on If you're looking for something built to withstand your most rugged activities from hiking to boating, we recommend the Sealline Pro Zip Duffel. The 70L bag is just a little over two pounds, despite its larger size, and its durable material is completely waterproof. The bag can be fully submerged in up to a meter of water for 30 minutes. While we didn't submerge the bag during testing, we showered it with water for 30 seconds, and none of the materials in the bag got wet, not even through the zipper. In fact, the duffel's zipper is pretty heavy-duty, so you may have to yank it to get it going. We like that the bag's main (and only) compartment is very spacious. It had enough room for us to pack a water bottle, five tops, three bottoms, two jackets, seven pairs each of socks and underwear, two toiletry kits, and two shoes, including a pair of boots. It does lack smaller compartments, so figuring out a way to organize your things falls on you, and you may have to actively dig through the bag when you're trying to locate a specific item. The bag's opening is wide enough to allow you to see what's inside, but a little too narrow to stuff in multiple items at the same time. We found we had to separate a stack of clothes into several parts in order to get every piece into the bag. The duffel's material looks and feels heavy-duty, but it also didn't show any damage during our testing period, making this a solid choice for outdoor adventurers who plan on using this duffel on different terrains. The Details: 15.5 x 28 x 11 inches | 2.9 pounds | 40, 70, or 100 liter capacity | PU-coated polyester, PU-coated nylon Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Backcountry View on Backcountry View on View on The Watershed Colorado Duffel features one of the most unique closures out of the bags on this list. Instead of using a zipper to close it, you can close the bag by simply pressing its top together to suction it close, similar to the way you'd close a freezer bag. "When it's completely flat, it looks like a massive flat Longchamp purse," says Cucco. "You can fit so many different things in it, whether it's two weeks worth of clothing, some type of bulky river gear or fishing supplies, or muddy gear." We did find that you had to pull it rather hard to get it back open after it's closed, but that's a fair trade-off for achieving a waterproof seal. After getting wet, the water on the bag beaded up into circles and rolled right off. None of the water got inside of the bag, as we observed that everything inside was as dry as when it was first packed. The handles and their padding did remain wet for about an hour, though, but that was pretty standard for most of the waterproof duffels we tested. This duffel can hold 75.5 liters, but you can compress it to take on different shapes. If you roll the top and compress it with the bag's straps and buckles, you'll get a cylinder-shaped duffel bag, but if you don't roll the top down, the bag resembles a large tote. While it doesn't come with a shoulder strap, it does come with lash points where you can attach your own. However, the duffel's carrying hands are wide enough that you can force it over your shoulder if you prefer not carrying it in your hands, too. One thing to note is that while the duffel's thick, rubbery material feels durable and rip-proof, we did find that it was prone to creasing and observed a few white scuff marks on it after it was thrown onto the ground a few times during our drop test. The Details: 27 x 7 x 5 in | 3.7 pounds | 75.5 liter capacity | PU-coated nylon Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure
