Traveling can be exhausting if you don’t have the right gear. Choosing the right duffel bag for travel is just as important as any of your travel essentials.
In our upcoming blog post, we explore the exciting world of duffel bags. Discover the diverse styles and designs this iconic travel companion offers. From classic duffel bags to specialized variations like rolling duffels and gym duffels, we’ll take you on a journey through the types of duffel bags. Find the perfect duffel bag for your needs, whether you’re a frequent traveler, fitness enthusiast, or just looking for an everyday bag.
1. How to Choose a Duffel Bag for Travel: Types of Duffel Bags
Choosing the right duffel bag for travel can be overwhelming, especially if you’re not familiar with this type of luggage.
In this blog post, we will guide you through the process of selecting the right duffel bag for your travel needs.
Let’s explore different types of duffel bags.
1.1 Gym Duffel Bags
If you are a fitness enthusiast, you know the importance of having a good gym bag.
A gym duffel bag is an essential item that can help you carry all your workout gear without any trouble. Most gym duffels come with various compartments to keep your workout essentials organized, including built-in water bottle holders, shoe compartments, and pockets for your phone and wallet. These bags offer enough space to carry your sweaty clothes, towels, and shower gear, making them a perfect pick for those who hit the gym regularly.
Gym duffel bags are also great for short trips.
Best for: gym, occasional short trips
1.2 Weekender Bags
Weekend getaways call for a bag that can carry all your essentials, and that’s where weekender bags come in handy.
These bags are spacious enough to pack a pair of clothes, chargers, toiletries, and even a laptop. They can be carried on-board, and most have a cross-body strap that adds comfort, especially when you have to navigate busy airports.
Best for: short trips, weekend getaways
1.3 Adventure-Ready Duffels
If you are an adventure traveler, durable duffel bag is a must-have.
Adventure-ready duffels are designed to withstand harsh environments, extreme weather conditions, and rough handling. They are made from top-quality materials such as weather-resistant nylon and leather that ensure your adventure gear is safe and secure. Adventure-ready duffels come with backpack straps that let you carry them on your back and move easily on rocky terrain or through the jungle.
Best for: adventure
1.4 Classic Duffel Bags
Classic duffel bags are well-known for their timeless design, versatility and practicality.
Classic duffel bags exude a rugged sophistication, crafted from durable canvas or luxurious leather. The versatility of these bags makes them perfect for travel, gym, and short weekend trips. However, when it comes to adventure travel, classic duffel bags may not be the best choice. They lack durable handles, sturdy shoulder straps, and water-resistant materials that are essential for such rugged journeys.
Best for: short trips, weekend getaways
1.5 Rolling Duffel Bags
Some travel duffel bags feature wheels and a retractable handle.
Those are great for frequent travelers, and they have the functionality of a suitcase. These features will make it way easier to carry it around in airports, bus and railway stations. Rolling duffel bags come in various sizes to suit different travel needs, from compact carry-ons to large checked versions.
2. Choosing the Right Duffel Bag for Travel
What’s the best duffel bag for travel?
When choosing a duffel bag, consider the purpose of your trip, the length of your journey, and the items you need to bring. Look for a bag with multiple compartments, sturdy zippers, and comfortable handles. Consider the size; if you’re going on a short trip, a small duffel bag will do, while a larger duffel is necessary for extended trips. Choose a bag that complements your style, and if you’re worried about security, look for bags that come with locks or TSA- approved locks.
Now, let’s delve into the details.
2.1 Purpose
The first thing to consider when choosing a duffel bag is the purpose. What kind of trip are you planning to go on? Do you need a bag for a short weekend trip, or are you embarking on a long journey? If you’re looking for a duffel bag for a weekend trip, a smaller size (around 40 liters) might suffice. However, if you’re planning on a longer trip, opt for a larger size (around 60 liters) to accommodate all your gear.
Think about your travel requirements. Will you be carrying heavy gear or going on a vacation? This will help you decide between a travel duffel bag or a regular duffel. If you opt for a travel duffel bag, there are different types to choose from. Some come with wheels and a retractable handle, offering suitcase-like functionality. These are ideal for frequent travelers, making navigation through airports, bus and railway stations a breeze. Alternatively, there are travel duffels that can be worn as backpacks, while some can only be carried by hand or over the shoulder.
If you are embarking on a adventure trip, opt for a durable, water resistant duffel bag. Choose a bag that features rugged padded straps and carry handles.
2.2 Durability and Material
The durability and material of the duffel bag are important, especially if you’re going to use it frequently.
Look for a bag made with durable materials such as nylon, polyester, or canvas. The bag should also have reinforced seams, a sturdy zipper, and strong handles. Additionally, check if the bag has a waterproof coating or treatment to protect your belongings from moisture.
2.3 Comfort
Comfort is an essential factor when choosing a duffel bag.
Check if the bag has padded straps, handles, and back panel to reduce the pressure on your shoulders and back. Also, make sure that the bag has a comfortable grip, especially if you’re going to carry it for an extended period.
2.4 Size and Storage
When planning a trip, consider the size of your travel duffel bag.
What is a good size duffel bag? Well, that depends on your travel style. There are various duffel bag sizes.
Before choosing the duffel bag, ask yourself several questions. Where are you headed? How long will you be away? What kind of adventure awaits? And how much gear do you need to bring along? Travel duffel bags come in various sizes, ranging from carry-on friendly options to those with a staggering capacity of over 130 liters! Choose the size that suits your needs and embark on your journey with ease.
Another crucial factor is the storage options of the duffel bag. Does the bag have enough compartments and pockets to store your belongings? Check if the bag has an inner lining to protect your clothes and a separate compartment for shoes or dirty clothes. Additionally, some duffel bags have external pockets for easy access to your essentials.
Not all duffel bags have many pockets. If a bag lacks storage options, use packing cubes for duffel bags.
2.5 Straps, Handles and Other Features
Pay attention to the type of straps and handles the bag offers.
If you intend to use it in backpack mode, ensure that the top grab handles (which function as shoulder straps) are adequately padded. Additionally, opt for a bag that provides a single over-the-shoulder strap along with top grab handles that can double as shoulder straps when using the bag as a backpack.
Check if the bag is equipped with side grab handles. These handles make it convenient to retrieve your bag from the luggage carousel.
For added security, consider a bag with locking zippers. Please note that you’ll need to purchase a luggage lock separately, as it’s typically not included.
Compression straps are practical as they help reduce the bag’s depth, allowing for easier storage. Additionally, a stuff sack is a useful extra feature, providing a space-saving solution for storing your duffel bag when it’s not in use.
If you plan to attach your duffel bag to a car’s roof rack, ensure it has lash points specifically designed for this purpose.
3. Can You Use Duffel Bag as Carry On?
Can a duffel bag be used as a carry on? Yes, absolutely.
However, whether a duffel bag can be used as a carry-on item depends on the airline’s policies and the bag’s dimensions. Most airlines enforce size and weight limitations for carry-on baggage to ensure proper fit in overhead compartments or under seat storage. However, these restrictions may vary among airlines, making it crucial to consult your specific carrier for accurate guidelines regarding carry-on luggage.
Typically, the dimensions of a carry-on duffel bag are approximately 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm). However, it’s important to note that several low-cost airlines have strict restrictions on carry-on bags. These airlines often only permit a small duffel bag as a carry-on, which is more akin to a personal item.
If you have any further inquiries regarding travel duffel bags, please feel free to ask in the comments section below.
Featured photo by Erik Mclean from Pexels