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New York Post
2 days ago
- New York Post
Weekend warrior-approved: 9 best duffel bags we tested for your next trip
New York Post may be compensated and/or receive an affiliate commission if you click or buy through our links. Featured pricing is subject to change. A great duffel bag is like a loyal travel companion: always ready, endlessly useful, and surprisingly stylish if you choose right. Whether you're heading to the gym, escaping for a weekend, or navigating multiple layover, the right duffel makes packing and schlepping dramatically less annoying. The problem? There are a lot of them — leather ones, sporty ones, wheeled ones, ones that claim to be carry-on compliant but secretly aren't — and not all are created equal. To make sense of it all, we combed through expert reviews, user ratings, and editor-tested favorites to curate a list of the very best duffel bags for every kind of traveler and every kind of trip. From designer investments to budget-friendly beasts, this list highlights bags that don't just look good, they work hard, too. We also made sure to include options for niche needs, like a sleek duffel that doubles as rolling luggage and a mini version that won't overwhelm your yoga locker. Whether you're replacing a tired gym bag, upgrading your carry-on game, or just want something oversized enough to haul half your life across the country, there's a duffel on this list for you. Best overall: Patagonia Black Hole 55L Duffel Bag Patagonia Pros: Exceptionally durable and weather-resistant recycled ripstop fabric Backpack straps + handles = multiple carry options Packs into its own pocket for storage Cons: Minimal internal organization This cult-favorite duffel is built to take a beating — rain, snow, and TSA agents included. Made from 100% recycled ripstop polyester with a weather-resistant laminate, it's as tough as it is eco-conscious. Multiple carry options and just the right amount of structure make it endlessly versatile, whether you're road-tripping or roughing it. I've used this bag for everything — from weekend getaways to muddy camping trips — and it never let me down. It's lightweight but insanely durable, and the backpack straps make it weirdly easy to carry, even when it's stuffed to the brim. I love that it packs into itself, too! Best budget: adidas Team Issue 2 Medium Duffel Bag Amazon Pros: Affordable price with surprising durability Ventilated shoe pocket and multiple compartments Padded shoulder strap and handles for comfort Cons: Basic materials — not as refined or stylish as pricier options Can sag if not filled completely Proof that performance doesn't have to cost a fortune, this under-$50 pick is a staple for athletes and casual travelers alike. It features a ventilated shoe compartment, multiple zip pockets, and a water-resistant base that keeps your stuff dry at the gym or in the trunk. Lightweight and durable, it's the best bang for your buck in the category. Best garment: Away Garment Duffel Away Pros: Converts into a full garment bag, perfect for suits/dresses Includes compression straps, laptop pocket, and shoe compartment Sleek, structured, and business-travel ready Cons: Slightly heavy even when empty due to structured design This hybrid duffel unzips to reveal a full garment bag, keeping suits, dresses, or wrinkle-prone pieces perfectly packed and protected. Inside, you'll find thoughtful extras like compression straps, multiple zip compartments, and a padded sleeve for your laptop. It's sleek, smart, and designed to handle both business and pleasure trips with ease. This bag made me feel like a real adult who travels with suits (even though I packed a jumpsuit and sneakers). It keeps everything structured and wrinkle-free, and I love that it doesn't scream 'garment bag.' It's sleek, functional, and a must if you're headed to a wedding or work trip. Best durable: YETI Panga Series Airtight Duffel Bag 100L Amazon Pros: Fully waterproof and airtight (built for extreme conditions) Incredibly rugged construction, ideal for outdoor adventures Detachable backpack straps and lash points for gear Cons: Lacks external pockets and compartments (not a con for all) Basically a tank in duffel form, this waterproof, airtight bag is designed for the wild — think boats, rivers, and monsoons. The ThickSkin shell and HydroLok zipper protect your gear from the elements while daisy chains and removable backpack straps keep it functional. It's pricey, yes, but virtually indestructible. Best weekender: Herschel Novel Duffel Herschel Pros: Classic aesthetic with signature shoe compartment Lightweight and well-sized for 2–3 day trips Comfortable shoulder strap and carry handles Cons: Not water-resistant This classic pick nails the weekend-trip aesthetic with its minimalist style and signature shoe compartment. Lightweight but surprisingly roomy, it's ideal for a 2–3 day getaway or a stylish gym bag upgrade. The shoulder strap is padded, the hardware feels elevated, and it always looks polished. Best small: lululemon City Essentials Bag 25L lululemon Pros: Compact yet holds a lot for daily use or short trips Multiple compartments including a ventilated shoe pocket and laptop sleeve Sleek, elevated look suitable for office-to-gym transitions Cons: Neoprene exterior may scuff or stain over time Compact yet surprisingly spacious at 25 L, this sleek tote transitions effortlessly from work to weekend. It features a padded 16-inch laptop sleeve, quick-access phone pocket, and exterior water-bottle pocket for everyday convenience. With a trolley-compatible sleeve, adjustable shoulder strap, and water-repellent material, it's thoughtfully designed for urban travel without bulk. This was my go-to for the gym, overnight stays, and everything in between for several years. The compartments make it feel way more organized than it looks, and the ventilated shoe pocket is a game-changer. It's compact but still fits a shocking amount (and always seemed to get compliments). Best with wheels: Calpak Stevyn Rolling Duffel CalPak Pros: Combines duffel flexibility with the convenience of wheels Large interior space with multiple compartments Great for those who don't want to carry a bag Cons: Bulky and harder to store than soft duffels Part suitcase, part duffel, this rolling hybrid is the best of both travel worlds. It's soft-sided and flexible but features a telescoping handle and spinner wheels for smooth airport gliding. Great for overpackers who don't want to carry the weight. Rolling this through the airport was so much better than lugging anything with a shoulder strap. It's roomy enough to overpack (essential for me) but soft enough to squeeze into tight spaces, and the interior pockets help keep things sorted. I was skeptical of the hybrid style at first, but it quickly became my default for longer trips. Lo & Sons Pros: Separate bottom compartment for shoes or dirty laundry Multiple interior and exterior pockets for organization Made from eco-friendly canvas or recycled poly Cons: Fabric can get dirty/stained easily This cult-loved bag is a masterclass in compartmentalization, featuring a bottom zip section for shoes or dirty laundry. Made with eco-friendly canvas or recycled poly, it's soft, structured, and surprisingly chic. A back sleeve slides over suitcase handles, making it perfect for stacking on longer trips. I'd never been more organized than while I was living out of this (small!) duffel. The bottom compartment is ideal for shoes or laundry, and I loved that it fit over my rolling suitcase handle. It was stylish enough to bring to every nice hotel I got to experience over the course of my travel editor career, but durable enough for the actual travel chaos that came with every trip. Best for the gym: Béis The Sport Duffel Béis Pros: Dedicated shoe compartment, water bottle holder, and removable pouch Stylish, structured design with practical function Padded strap for comfort Cons: Slightly heavier than a basic gym bag Designed with gym rats in mind (but stylish enough for city commuters), this bag features a separate zippered compartment for shoes, a water bottle holder, and tons of internal organization. The padded crossbody strap and sleek exterior make it equally functional and fashion-forward. Bonus: it includes a matching drawstring pouch for sweaty clothes. According to a well-traveled Post Wanted pro, 'Béis is the luggage brand for both the 'it' girl and the high-speed traveler and go-getter, combining all the amazing features listed below and a touch of fashion, too.' Duffel Bag Buying Guide When it comes to choosing the right duffel, the best pick depends on how (and how often) you travel — sometimes, it behooves us to consider where we're going and what we may be packing as well. Whether you're hauling workout gear, hopping on a flight, or living out of your bag for two weeks straight, here's what to look for before you buy. Materials Look for materials that match your lifestyle. Nylon and recycled polyester are lightweight and weather-resistant and ideal for commuters or outdoor adventures. Leather is luxe and durable but heavier and less flexible. If you're heading into rough conditions, consider a waterproof laminate or coated fabric like on the YETI or Patagonia options. Capacity Duffels typically range from 25L to over 100L. For daily use or gym trips, stay under 40L. Weekend trips call for around 40–55L, while longer hauls or gear-heavy travel may need 70L and up. Keep airline carry-on size restrictions in mind if you're trying to skip checked luggage! Storage and organization Some duffels are giant caverns, others are compartmentalized to the nth degree. If you're someone who likes everything in its place, look for features like separate shoe compartments, internal mesh pockets, or dedicated laptop sleeves. Garment duffels and multi-compartment styles are especially helpful for business travel or mixed-use packing. Type Duffels now come in hybrid forms: backpack-style straps, rolling wheels, garment-convertible, or even tote-duffel crossovers. Choose your type based on how far and how often you carry it — backpack straps are great for hands-free hauling, wheels save your back, and convertible options help you adapt on the go. Brands Established brands like Patagonia, Away, and YETI are known for quality and durability, while newer names like Béis and Lo & Sons bring smart design and style-forward details. One way to go about choosing a duffel bag brand from there is to think about the brand's values — be they sustainability, aesthetics, functionality, what have you — and choose the one that aligns with your own values. For more content, check out the New York Post Shopping section. For over 200 years, the New York Post has been America's go-to source for bold news, engaging stories, in-depth reporting, and now, insightful shopping guidance. We're not just thorough reporters – we sift through mountains of information, test and compare products, and consult experts on any topics we aren't already schooled specialists in to deliver useful, realistic product recommendations based on our extensive and hands-on analysis. Here at The Post, we're known for being brutally honest – we clearly label partnership content, and whether we receive anything from affiliate links, so you always know where we stand. We routinely update content to reflect current research and expert advice, provide context (and wit) and ensure our links work. Please note that deals can expire, and all prices are subject to change.
USA Today
15-03-2025
- Business
- USA Today
Are you an REI Co-op member? Save an extra 20% on Coleman, Patagonia, Blundstone and more
Are you an REI Co-op member? Save an extra 20% on Coleman, Patagonia, Blundstone and more The REI Co-op member sale is back! Lifetime members save 20% on one full-priced item this March. — Recommendations are independently chosen by our editors. Purchases you make through our links may earn us and our publishing partners a commission. What is the REI Co-op member sale? Now through Monday, March 24, REI Co-op members can use the coupon code MEMBER2025 at checkout to take 20% off one full-price item or 20% off one REI Outlet item. REI has top-rated gear for just about any outdoor excursion including equipment for camping, hiking, skiing, biking and more. Members can save on top-rated Coleman camping grills, viral Patagonia Black Hole duffel bags and down jackets, even Blundstone boots! Below, we've highlighted a few of the best REI products that are included in this members-only offer, and more information about how to join REI Co-op! Blundstone Classic Chelsea Boots More: This never happens: Save up to 25% on Blundstone boots Patagonia Nano Puff Insulated Jacket - Men's Coleman Xcursion 1-Burner Butane Grill More: 11 grills on sale to help you conquer backyard barbecues on a budget New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v9 Trail-Running Shoes | Women's More: REI has up to 50% off Patagonia vests, Jetboil cooking systems and Arc'teryx jackets Patagonia Black Hole Duffel 40 L On Cloudrock Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots | Men's More: Get up to 50% off Merrell hiking boots, slip-ons and more at this epic Semi-Annual sale Yeti Hopper M15 Tote Soft Cooler The North Face Wawona 6 Tent Exped MegaMat Duo Sleeping Pad Patagonia R1 Air Full-Zip Hoody | Women's More: 10 can't-miss deals on Patagonia vests, jackets, gear The REI Co-op membership costs $30 and is a lifetime membership. New members will immediately start earning rewards like up to 10% back on eligible purchases. Now through Monday, March 24, REI Co-op members can also use the coupon code MEMBER2025 at checkout to save an extra 20% on one full-price item or 20% off one REI Outlet item. This sale is one of the best of the year for REI Co-op members, so we suggest signing up now to scoop the discounts! How does an REI Co-op membership work? As a consumer co-op, REI Co-op members pay a one-time fee and are part of the REI community for life. Once you pay the $30 membership fee, your membership never expires. Members get access to benefits like up to 10% back annually on eligible purchases (Co-op Member Reward), free standard shipping, access to special offers and sales, member-exclusive bonus cards, early access to curated products and limited-edition gear, the ability to trade in used gear for credit and so much more. Shop REI Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time.
National Geographic
04-02-2025
- National Geographic
The best travel duffel bag of 2025
By clicking on the featured links, visitors will leave and be directed to third-party e-commerce sites that operate under different terms and privacy policies. As a participant in multiple affiliate marketing programs, National Geographic will earn a commission for certain purchases. See full disclaimer below.* 'Have you ever tried wheeling a suitcase down a mountain or strapping it to the front of a sailboat? It's not practical,' says Canadian travel and adventure photographer Emmett Sparling . If you're zipping through airport terminals or going from airport to hotel via city streets, a wheeled suitcase can be convenient. But if your travel taste veers toward rugged adventure, a durable duffel bag is non-negotiable. 'Duffels are adaptable. They fit into tight spaces and can be strapped onto just about anything,' notes Sparling. 'My shoots often take me through multiple climates and terrains, so I need to be prepared for any scenario. I also prefer bags that can double as backpacks, which helps when I'm moving through unpredictable environments.' Trips such as safaris that incorporate bush flights require soft-sided luggage. Other remote locales involve transportation that would make hard-shell luggage with wheels and stiff handles impractical. 'On some of our trips, our bags are transported out in the open, such as in the back of a truck, on a fishing boat, or by mule,' says Bethany Betzler, founder of U.S.-based ecotourism company Hinoki Travels . 'It's important to at least have a water-resistant exterior and construction that is durable enough to withstand a bit of bumping around.' Wherever you're traveling, we've rounded up our top picks for the best travel duffel bags. Based on expert advice, extensive online research, and personal experience as travel journalists, we've determined that the Patagonia Black Hole Duffel 40L will suit most travelers because of its versatility and material. Here are all of our favorites. The best travel duffel bags Overall, the best duffel bags should be durable and have some kind of weatherproofing. Since they're meant to be carried, duffel bags should also have comfortable straps and/or offer handle versatility. Below, we distill the pros and cons of the top travel duffel bags so you can determine the best style for your needs. Best travel duffel bag overall: Patagonia Black Hole Duffel 40L Photograph courtesy Patagonia Patagonia Black Hole Duffel 40L Buy it now at Patagonia Why we like it: 'The Patagonia Black Hole duffel is my tried-and-true for shorter or more rugged trips, such as our Greenland expedition,' says Betzler. 'It has a durable, weather-resistant exterior and attachable padded shoulder straps so it can comfortably be worn as a backpack.' This carry-on size duffel bag is ideal for trips where size restrictions limit what you can bring and works equally as well as a weekender. Not only is the material durable and weather-resistant but it's also 100-percent recycled, according to the brand. The design is convertible and ergonomic, and details such as a padded base, exterior daisy chains to store items like trekking poles, and a pack-away pocket for when it's not in use make this our top choice. Keep in mind: Some reviewers say the recycled fabric in the bag's newest iteration isn't quite as robust as in the past. Product details: Material: 100-percent recycled polyester ripstop with a matte, recycled TPU-film laminate | Weather protection: Weather- and abrasion-resistant | Sizes: 40L, 55L, 70L, 100L | Colors: Black, Smolder Blue, Fitz/Ink Black, Seabird Grey, Endless Blue, Dulse Mauve Best duffel bag for international travel: Cotopaxi Allpa 50L Duffel Photograph courtesy Cotopaxi Cotopaxi Allpa 50L Duffel Buy it now at Cotopaxi Why we like it: The durability and ergonomic design, as well as ample space and organization make the Cotopaxi Allpa 50L the best duffel for holding up on longer international trips. With lightweight fabric made from recycled materials, this duffel is designed to withstand wear and tear. With its large main interior compartment, interior and exterior pockets, daisy chains for clipping in carabiners or trekking poles, and bottom compartment to store dirty clothes, this bag can handle a few weeks on the road and keep you organized. The duffel was also built for comfort and ease of use, with removable backpack harness and duffel straps, as well as grab handles on both ends. Keep in mind: While this style is compact and lightweight, it's over the carry-on size limit for most major airlines. It can handle some light rain, but it's not designed to be weather-resistant. Product details: Material: 100-percent recycled TPU-coated and ripstop nylon exterior; 100-percent recycled ripstop polyester interior | Weather protection: Not water-resistant but durable | Sizes: 50L | Colors: Fatigue/Woods, Blue Spruce/Abyss, Cotopaxi Black, Smoke/Cinder ( These weekenders have plenty of room for a quick getaway ) Best large travel duffel bag: Dakine Split Roller Bag 110L Photograph courtesy Amazon Dakine Split Roller Bag 110L Buy it now on Amazon Why we like it: Longer periods on the road often mean packing for different climates and occasions. When faced with a lengthier packing list or trying to squeeze in bulky items like winter boots, a roomy duffel bag like Dakine's Split Roller Bag 100L is ideal. The split-level design can be laid flat to access two large main compartments, as well as mesh dividers and quick-access exterior pockets. Along with standard gray and black, this bag also comes in several vibrant patterns, making it easy to pick out on the luggage carousel. Durable, reinforced wheels mean you can pull this bag along over uneven terrain. Keep in mind: Some reviewers note a lack of interior compression straps and that the exterior fabric itself could be a bit heftier. This bag isn't weather-resistant. Product details: Material: 100-percent recycled polyester Weather protection: Not water-resistant | Sizes: 110L | Colors: Black, Rubber, Carbon, Night Skyline, Waterfall, Wailea Best small travel duffel bag: Away The Outdoor Duffel 40L Photograph courtesy Away Away The Outdoor Duffel Buy it now at Away Why we like it: This minimalist duffel bag fits easily in an airplane overhead bin. While the style has less structure and built-in storage and organization, the main compartment is deceivingly roomy for a 40L bag. Although the softer exterior fabric isn't as robust as some other bags, it resists scuffs, the upper portion is water-resistant and easily wipeable, and the base panel is made from a high-quality, tightly woven material that can withstand wear and tear. Because it's a bit less structured, this bag also folds down easily, which makes for easy storage or a good choice for bringing on as an extra bag that you can check on your return journey. A detachable crossbody strap is convenient for staying hands-free when you're juggling your passport and coffee at the airport. Keep in mind: Although we love the crossbody strap, all the straps on this bag could be reinforced or padded to make them more comfortable. Product details: Material: Sustainably sourced (according to brand), 100-percent recycled water- and abrasion-resistant fabric | Weather protection: Water-resistant | Sizes: 40L, 55L, 70L | Colors: Jet Black, Navy Blue, Forest Green ( Pilots and flight attendants tell us all about their favorite luggage ) Best travel duffel bag carry-on: No Reception Club Hideaway Carry-On Duffel No Reception Club Hideaway Carry-On Duffel Buy it now at No Reception Club Why we like it: This duffel bag is touted as a family-friendly option, and while it's ideal for staying organized on the go with young children in tow, it works just as well for any traveler who appreciates smart design and plenty of built-in storage. The duffel comes with a removable packing organizer that works in lieu of packing cubes and can be reconfigured with every trip. We love that there are lots of ways to carry it: as a backpack, using the top handles, a shoulder strap, and grab handles. Anyone who has carried a bag through multiple legs of a trip or long airport transfers knows what a relief it is to switch carrying positions. There are also ample exterior and interior pockets and add-on hanging straps to use on the back of a hotel room door. The recycled exterior fabric is water-resistant, and the dimensions fit most carry-on size requirements. Keep in mind: The soft, yet structured exterior offers durability and feels good in the hand, but some travelers might find it makes for a heavier bag overall. Product details: Material: 100-percent recycled polyester | Weather protection: Water-resistant | Sizes: 42L | Colors: Jet Black, Olive Best travel duffel bag for women: Finisterre Nautilus 45L Duffle Bag Photograph courtesy Finisterre Finisterre Nautilus 45L Duffle Bag Buy it now at Finisterre Why we like it: This convertible style can be carried by its top handles or worn as a backpack. It also has the right amount of structure, softness, and comfort. For a 45L carrying capacity, the large main compartment with compression strap fits a ton; you may be able to get away with taking it on board a major airline. Multiple zippered interior and exterior pockets—including a padded laptop sleeve—keep essentials organized and within easy reach. The bag is made with a durable, water-repellent fabric and a water-based, waxed finish, plus waterproof zippers to withstand whatever is in store on your journey. Keep in mind: This may be beyond the carry-on size limit for smaller airlines. Product details: Material: 100-percent recycled nylon ripstop fabric | Weather protection: Durable, water-repellent finish | Sizes: 45L| Colors: Black ( Yes, you can travel overseas with just a carry-on. Here's how .) Best travel duffel bag for men: Db Roamer Duffel 60L Photograph courtesy Amazon Db Roamer Duffel 60L Buy it now on Amazon Why we like it: 'I've been using my Db duffel for eight years, and it's been with me everywhere—from trekking through the Himalayas to sailing in French Polynesia and camping in East Greenland,' says Sparling. 'I love it because it doubles as a backpack when needed, is made from super-thick, water-resistant fabric, and has heavy-duty zippers that can handle serious wear and tear.' 'Another small but important detail is the oversized zipper toggles—they make it so much easier to open and close the bag when I'm wearing gloves. You really notice when they're missing,' says Sparling.' This duffel also boasts ample pockets for keeping essentials organized. Keep in mind: While the nylon material can withstand some light rain, it wasn't made to be water-resistant. Product details: Material: 100-percent nylon body and 100-percent polyester lining | Weather protection: Not water-repellent | Sizes: 40L, 60L | Colors: Black Out, Blue Hour, Chris Burkard, Falu Red, Parhelion Orange, White Out Best travel duffel bag with wheels: Patagonia Black Hole Wheeled Duffel 70L Photograph courtesy Patagonia Patagonia Black Hole Wheeled Duffel 70L Buy it now at Patagonia Why we like it: 'I use Patagonia's 70L wheeled duffel for longer trips, and love that it looks as at home in big cities as much as it does in the remote mountains,' says Betzler. 'It has a durable, weather-resistant exterior and tough wheels that hold up well against cobblestones and uneven terrain.' This spacious duffel comes with an external top pocket that's convenient to access when you're rolling it, and interior pockets to keep small items secure. There are back-up axles for on-the-go repairs—extra handy for rugged destinations. We appreciate that the company says the fabric is sustainably made, 100-percent recycled, and weather resistant. Keep in mind: Backpack straps would have been a thoughtful addition, but you'll have to carry or wheel this one. Product details: Material: 100-percent recycled polyester ripstop with a matte, recycled TPU-film laminate | Weather protection: Weather- and abrasion-resistant | Sizes: 40L, 70L, 100L | Colors: Black, Smolder Blue, Fitz/Ink Black, Seabird Grey, Endless Blue, Dulse Mauve ( Lighten your load with these top-notch carry-ons ) Best waterproof travel duffel bag: Arc'teryx Carrier 40 Duffel Why we like it: This sturdy duffel was designed to handle some serious weather, and we like that it feels compact enough to double as a daypack. The rugged fabric has a canvas-like hand feel and combines polyurethane coating with sealed seams for stellar water resistance. The U-shaped top opening and white lining make it easy to find items on the go and an interior zippered pocket stores smaller items. You can remove the backpack straps and lift the bag by comfortable grab handles at either end. Keep in mind: While this bag has a 40L carrying capacity, the rigid structure makes it a bit more difficult to squeeze in extra items. It's best for short trips. Product details: Material: 67 percent nylon, and 33 percent polyurethane body; 100 percent nylon lining | Weather protection: Durable and water-resistant | Sizes: 40L | Colors: Black, Tatsu How we chose the best duffel bags for travel We chose our top travel duffel bag picks based on extensive research, product testing, and expert reviews and insights. Here's our process: Research: We scoured the Internet for customer reviews and testing for unbiased feedback on each product. Product testing: As a professional travel journalist, I tested many of these duffel bags on trips of varying length and terrain to help determine the best product in each category, including size, material, and technical features. Expert reviews: We spoke with frequent fliers and travel experts including trip leaders, photojournalists, and product designers for technical product recommendations, as well as real-world insights about their favorite duffel bags and the materials and features that they look for when purchasing a duffel. Tips for buying a travel duffel bag 'When choosing a duffle, consider the balance between size and weight based on the type of trip you're planning,' says Lindsay White, senior director of technical design at Away. 'Think about what kind of environment you will be traveling in and what elements you might be exposed to.' Make a packing list A trip packing list is a good place to start before beginning to shop for a duffel because you'll have a better sense of what gear you'll need to accommodate and what kind of weather you'll be facing. A compartment that fits dirty hiking boots or a wet swimsuit might be convenient on certain trips, for instance. Capacity and weight A well-designed duffel bag should offer ample space and shouldn't be overly heavy. After all, apart from the couple of rolling styles available, you'll be carrying it. Frequently asked questions What is the best material for a duffel? 'Durable, lightweight, and water-resistant materials like recycled polyester make an excellent choice for most trips,' says White. 'It's a nice alternative to virgin polyester without compromising durability or performance.' Travelers will also want to avoid exterior materials that are delicate or easily snag or rip, such as unreinforced cotton, nylon, or linen, which will influence the longevity of a duffel bag. Is a 40L duffel carry-on size? Yes, 40L is considered within carry-on size requirements for most major airlines as well as smaller planes. On larger planes you might be able to get away with up to a 45L carry capacity but always check airline-specific restrictions. What are the disadvantages of a duffel bag? Most duffel bags are made from soft and flexible material, which is great for fitting irregular-shaped items, squeezing in extra, last-minute items, and storing when not in use. But this also means the bag won't offer the same protection as a hard-shell suitcase and may be more prone to wear and tear, depending on the material. Chloe Berge is a freelance journalist based in Vancouver, Canada, covering travel, environment, and adventure. She has packed a durable duffel for trips ranging from a safari in Botswana to a trekking expedition in the East Greenland backcountry. *Although we are sharing our personal opinions of these experiences or products with you, National Geographic is not endorsing these experiences or products on behalf of anyone. It has not performed product safety testing on any of these products, did not manufacture them, and is not selling, or distributing them and is not making any representations about the safety or caliber of these products or experiences for individual consumers. Prices and availability are subject to change from the date of publication.
