what are big travel bags called

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to menu-404 navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

Darcy Magazine

The lifestyle site you always wanted. Darcy is your source for lifestyle coverage, entertainment, relationships, fashion, beauty, jokes, puns, and everything trending on the Internet.

14 Types of Travel Bags to Help You Deal with Your Baggage

I’m fortunate enough that I get to travel a ton for my job. And, I’ve learned a thing or two about the importance of a sturdy, easy-to-carry, trip appropriate travel bag. Sometimes that means packing a rolling suitcase, and sometimes it means relying on a backpack. There are many different types of travel bags and the best one you choose depends on your trip.

Here’s why: If you’re traveling to NYC, you’ll quickly discover there’s nothing worse than lugging a 50-pound suitcase up and down subway steps, only to realize you’re on the wrong side of the tracks and have to do it all over again. How are you supposed to take hot pics of yourself in front of an old church looking like you just fell into a swamp?

Below, I’ll share with you the 14 different types of luggage you could bring with you so you can pick the best travel companion for your journey. We’ll never let you be that girl lugging a travel trunk up that charming hostel with a six-story walkup again.

Types of Travel Bags

• Travel pack (Backpack)
• Wheeled Backpack
• Travel Totes
• Duffel Bags / Weekender
• Rolling Duffel Bags
• Rolling Luggage
• Hardside Luggage with Spinner Wheels
• Messenger Bag
• Garment Bag
• Vintage Suitcase
• Travel Trunk

1. Travel Pack / Backpack

Pros: They’re durable, easy to carry, and fit in the overhead compartment so you don’t have to worry about checking a bag .

Cons: When full, a backpack can be tough on your shoulders, so make sure you find one with padded shoulder straps. It can also be harder to find items in a backpack, which is why I prefer built-in organized backpacks like this one from Tortuga. It’ll help prevent you from pulling out your dirty underwear in the middle of the airport to find your flip flops.

Best for: Backpacking, camping, road trips, and places without roads.

2. Wheeled Backpack

Pros: A wheeled backpack, on the other hand, gives you the compact ease of a traditional backpack but you get the option to roll it around like a suitcase. (You can also throw a rolling backpack on your back if you’re on a dirt road or roaming around the forest like some kind of wanderlust meerkat).

Cons: Rolling backpacks are not as flexible as a traditional backpack. It can feel uncomfortable if you’re lugging it up a cliff or mountain.

Best for: A trip where you’ll be mostly in the city but you might spend a few days in the country discovering yourself.

3. Travel Tote

Pros: They’re oversized enough to take all your necessities (wallet, change of clothes, sunscreen, snacks, snacks, snacks), but small enough that you’re not rolling up to your out-of-town work meeting holding a small horse.

Cons: Most totes lack internal organization, so you might be doing a lot of digging for treasure. Ooh look, a mint!

Best for: Short trips, the gym, a day trip, or even a weekend trip if you’re a light packer.

4. Duffel Bag / Weekender

Pros: As a carry-on, duffel bags are a lot more convenient than lugging around a clunky suitcase (especially if you’re going to be walking on uneven surfaces like cobblestone).

Cons: Many don’t lock, which can be a downside if you’re going to be staying in public places like a hostel. They can easily become disorganized, and they’re also a bit difficult to carry for long distances.

Best for: A weekend trip, day trip, short trip, or a type of trip rolling luggage would be a pain to use. They’re also spacious and open if you have oddly shaped belongings to transport, like shoes, sports equipment, or a dead body.

5. Rolling Duffel Bags

Pros: Rolling duffel bags are more spacious than duffel bags and you can roll them all over town. Particularly so if “town” is really an airport.

Cons: They’re more expensive than traditional duffels, and can be annoying to transport up and down stairs.

Best for: People who hate carrying things! Or if you have tense shoulders, a bad back, or strained anything.

6. Rolling Luggage

Pros: They come in all sizes, are pretty durable, and are designed for the basic traveler. Here, we mean basic like a good pair of jean s, not dating a DJ from Croatia basic.

Cons: Pulling a bag behind you can put pressure on your joints and wrists, and be pretty uncomfortable if you’ve got to haul it a long distance.

Best for: Rugged trips and different types of terrain. Because the wheels are fixed, it’s probably not going to get caught on rocks or cracks. You can practically pull a roller bag over anything.

7. Hardside Bags with Spinner Wheels

Pros: The spinner wheels are great for easy transport that’s softer on your joints and muscles, and usually feel way lighter than pulling soft luggage. No, that’s not a euphemism.

Cons: Hardside bags aren’t as flexible as soft luggage, and some people don’t like that you have to pack the two halves individually. They also don’t stack easily or squish into small spaces.

Best for: Staying organized, protecting sensitive and fragile items, and rainy and snowy weather!

8. Messenger Bag

Pros: Messenger bags are great for easily accessing your items since they lay across your lower back or side, and are usually secured with a buckle, clasp, or zipper.

Cons: They don’t distribute weight across your body as well as traditional backpacks, which can be tiresome if you’re shlepping a bunch of textbooks.

Best for: People who bike or want a less pretentious briefcase. They’re also great if you work on the Pony Express and like to drink out of old glass milk bottles.

9. Laptop Bags

Pros: Laptop bags make it easy to carry all your necessities and your laptop to the coffeeshop so you can get away from your roommates and get some work done.

Cons: It’s another thing to carry if you’re also traveling with a suitcase. If you need a travel bag with a protective laptop sleeve, I like the Away Bigger Carry-On with Pocket .

Best for : Work trips or taking your computer around town.

10. Dopp Kit

Pros: It looks a lot slicker than that quart-sized plastic bag you’ve been using.

Cons: Sometimes things can leak or spill everywhere. (We’re looking at you, glitter eyeshadow.) Make sure you choose a waterproof Dopp kit like this one .

Best for: All types of travel. You need to floss wherever you go. Your dentist always knows when you haven’t been flossing and she is scary and has access to sharp tools.

11. Garment Bag

Pros: Using a garment bag is also a lot classier than holding up your meeting because you’re trying to get the wrinkles out of your pencil skirt using the shower steam in the hotel bathroom.

Cons: They can be quite annoying to carry around, and often aren’t long enough for long dresses or coats. Make sure it fits the airline’s carry-on requirements so you don’t risk having the bag guy throwing your wedding dress under Fido’s cage.

Best for: Work trips, event trips like weddings or reunions, and protecting finer clothes from wrinkling, dust, dirt, and odors.

12. Fanny Pack

Pros: Fanny packs are awesome and anyone who tells you otherwise hates joy.

Drawbacks: Some people think they look stupid and to those people I say, “who hurt you?”

Best for: Protecting your valuables. That thief is gonna have to come awfully close to your nether region in order to steal your wallet, so they’re a lot more reliable than pockets or even purses. They also leave your hands free so you can enjoy all the street food snacks you want.

13. Vintage Suitcase

Pros: They look cool and they’re a great gift if you’re dating a dude who has a handlebar mustache and shaves with a knife.

Cons: They’re easier to damage (and usually already come with some damage, which I’m sure you can’t relate to at all). You probably wouldn’t want to take this suitcase with you on long trips or up, like, Mount Fuji.

Best for: Those more interested in style, looks, and fashion over durability and functionality. It’s like having a portable antique that’ll make your journey feel a little extra special. Oh, who are we kidding? This is really just best for your Instagram .

14. Travel Trunk

Pros: It looks like you’re opening up a treasure chest full of riches every time you use it. Only in this case your riches are your old 7th grade journals and a retainer.

Cons: Some trunks can be quite large, bulky, and clunky to move on your own. You might need help carrying it.

Best for: If you’re studying or working abroad for a while, a travel trunk is one way to transport all your valuables and clothes with ease. Plus, many can be padlocked shut if need to protect your valuables or are obsessed with Houdini.

• Recent Posts

• The Craziest Things In This Year’s Goop Gift Guide - November 18, 2021
• How To Talk Dirty Without Feeling Like a Goober - July 7, 2021
• 6 Pretty Clear Signs You’re Probably Dating a Fuccboi - May 18, 2021

Read This Next

How to Get a Passport So You Too Can Brag About Your Travel Plans

17 Funny Luggage Tags to Briefly Distract You from the Nightmare of Commercial Air Travel

Oh, The Places You’ll Go With a Travel Capsule Wardrobe

Reader interactions, leave a comment cancel reply.

* I understand that my name, email address, and comments will be saved. Read more about what information we store and how we use it in our Privacy Policy.

• Web Stories
• Editorial Policies
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy

• By Destination
• By Trip Type
• Luggage Expertise
• Packing Tips

The Ultimate Guide to All the Types of Luggage

The world of luggage is stuffed full of so much jargon, it can feel like a secret lingo only frequent flyers speak. Spinners? Dopp kits? Travel packs? Mule bags? OK, that last one we invented, but the truth is, there are so many luggage options, we wouldn’t be surprised if “mule bags” were actually a thing. (A carry-on feed bag perhaps?) If you’re still trying to get a handle on the proper definitions for different suitcases and bags, let us help. Below we’ve listed 10 common luggage categories with full descriptions for each, plus our tried-and-true picks for every variety.

See recent posts by Maria Adelmann

What is a Carry-On Bag?

A carry-on bag is built to fit inside the overhead compartment on an airplane, hence the name—it’s the luggage you carry on the plane—though, in reality you’ll probably be rolling it on, bumping a few armrests along the way. (Your “carry-on” bag is not to be confused with your “personal item,” a smaller item like a backpack or purse, which should be small enough to slide under the seat in front of you.) While carry-on bag guidelines vary slightly by airline, 22 by 9 by 14 inches is about standard, and those measurements include handles and wheels. Of course, carry-ons are just as handy on the ground for road trips or train travel, because they also fit well in the train’s overhead area and in car trunks. Hard cases tend to be more durable, but if you’re an over-packer or souvenir junkie, the soft-side varieties with exterior pockets give a bit more leeway for just one more snow globe.

Our Pick: Travelpro Platinum Elite 22” Expandable Carry-On Rollaboard,  $254.99 at eBags

RELATED:  The Best Carry-On Luggage

What is Spinner Luggage?

If you’ve ever tried to change direction quickly while dragging two-wheeled luggage behind you, you’ll understand the beauty of a spinner. Spinner luggage has four wheels, which all turn 360 degrees, meaning the luggage can glide at your side nearly weightlessness as you whizz around tight corners and sprint toward your gate (or the nearest airport Cinnabon). But there are some caveats to this gravity-free bliss: Spinners tend to be less durable on rough terrain and more prone to damage than their more locked-in two-wheeled counterparts, so expect to shell out more money for a sturdy version. Also, the wheels tend to add weight and stick out, so you’ll lose a little interior packing space since wheels are included in baggage dimensions. Spinners come in both carry-on and checked sizes, with soft and hard shell options.

Our Pick: Fortis Pro Traveler Hardside Spinner Carry-On, $219.99 at eBags

What’s a Travel Pack?

The darling of backpackers everywhere, a travel pack is basically what you’d get if a hiker’s backpack and a suitcase had a baby. Travel packs tend to be lightweight and durable with an ergonomic design (think metal frames and hip-belts), and a slew of practical details geared toward comfort and access while traveling. While travel packs are usually bulkier than the typical hiker’s backpacks, they can also be easier to pack with lots of front-loading styles. Some even offer detachable day packs, essentially a mini breakaway backpack for excursions. Plus, their straps tuck in so they don’t get caught in airline conveyor belts. The top-rated options tend to come from high-end outdoor manufacturers.

Our Pick: Osprey Packs Farpoint 55 Travel Backpack, from $158.36 at Amazon

What is a Weekender Bag?

A weekender bag is designed to hold just enough items for a weekend trip (though heavy packers might be tempted to call it an “overnighter”). Size-wise, weekenders tend to lie in the sweet spot between a tote and a duffel bag. They’re usually oblong with two handles and sometimes a crossbody strap. Because they’re wheel-less, they’re not ideal if you’re packing heavy, but they’re great for weaving through crowded terminals or for throwing in the trunk of a car. Practicality sometimes plays second fiddle to style—with a slew of leather, canvas, and monogrammed options from upmarket retailers like J.Crew, Madewell, and Kate Spade. And even if they weigh on our shoulder, we can’t help but love a weekender for being for a sophisticated statement piece.

Our Pick: Lo & Sons Catalina Deluxe Canvas Weekender, $128 at Lo & Sons

What is a Duffel Bag?

Duffel bags are soft-sided cylindrical bags that run the gamut from handsome weekender-sized pieces in canvas and leather to sturdy camping gear options made from durable nylon. While most have two handles and a crossbody strap, there are also a slew of rolling varieties—a shoulder-saving option for over-packers. The main benefit of a duffel is that it has a wide opening that offers one roomy compartment. This makes it ideal for packing larger items, like sleeping bags, camping gear, helmets, or odd-shaped sporting equipment. And while many a meticulous traveler has carefully folded clothes into a duffel, they’re also a favorite of “throw-and-go” packers.

Our Pick: North Face Base Camp Duffel, $180.90 at Amazon

What is a Satchel?

A grandfather to the messenger bag and a brother to the briefcase, the quintessential satchel is a structured bag made of leather, with a history as old English school bags. (Picture the square, flap-buckled leather bags seen in prep schools.) That said, the satchel’s parameters are flexible to the point of being stretchy. A variety of backpacks, purses, and messenger bags can all be considered satchels. Though sometimes sold as weekenders, they do tend to be smaller, and are more likely to be used for work, a day trip, or as an airline’s “personal item” than for a weekend trip. As with the weekender, satchels tend to be fashionable and sophisticated, with loads of luxe models available.

Our Pick: Madewell’s The Prague Satchel, $198 at Madewell

What is a Dopp Kit?

A Dopp kit is essentially a structured toiletry bag, traditionally made of leather. Originally, they were issued to soldiers in both World Wars, and they still have a bit of a “military man” look about them, especially when they’re paired with shaving gear. While they’re classically marketed toward men, women can make use of them, too, and often find their ridged sides do a great job of protecting bottles or makeup compacts. Modern varieties tend to be dapper, simple, and moderately sized with an easy zippered closure. Those who prefer more frills or space should consider going with a standard toiletry bag instead.

Our Pick: Chapter Travel Kit from Hershel Supply, $29.99 at Amazon

What is a Messenger Bag?

A messenger bag is a soft-sided crossbody bag with a flap closure, traditionally used by, well, messengers. They’re especially popular in urban areas, and wholeheartedly embraced by many commuters and cyclists. (Bike messengers are evangelical about their favorite brands.) They’re ideal for work or everyday use. Men in particular seem to be big messenger bag boosters as they offer up a more casual alternative to the briefcase, yet they’re still a bit more business-appropriate than a backpack. Many of them fit standard laptops, too, perfect for the digital workforce that’s always carting their office with them to the local coffee shop. There’s a huge range of options, from durable canvas or nylon varieties to sophisticated pieces in worn leather.

Our Pick: Moleskine Nomad Messenger Bag, $99.95 at Urban Outfitters

What is a Garment Bag?

Going somewhere fancy? A garment bag is designed to keep your finest clothes dust- and wrinkle-free, and often features an attached hanger so your upscale outfits can go directly in a hotel closet without being unloaded from its carry case. While most garment bags are marketed toward men going on business trips in two-piece suits, last we heard, women also attend business meetings and want to avoid busting out the hotel iron. The most basic garment bags are simple sheaths, much like the type you get gratis with a suit or expensive coat, but some double as luggage, featuring space for multiple ensembles and extra pouches and pockets for all of your essentials.

Our Pick: Zegur Suit Carry-On Garment Bag, $47.95 at Amazon

What is a Wheeled Backpack?

You already know the short answer: It’s a backpack with wheels. (Duh.) But there’s a longer answer—it’s a rolling backpack that can be anything from a kid’s school bag on wheels to luggage you can lift up and cart around on your back, even in carry-on and checked sizes. They can make great alternatives to traditional luggage for those traveling on extended trips or to a variety of destinations—over a variety of terrain. (Those spinner wheels won’t serve you on a rocky riverbed.) The most popular options are related to travel packs, and well-liked among backpackers. It’s usually worth the price to choose a quality wheeled backpack that’s ergonomic, lightweight, and durable. As with travel packs, outdoor companies tend to sell the sturdiest options.

Our Pick: Osprey Sojourn Wheeled Luggage, $340 at Amazon

Related Stories

The 13 Best Luggage Brands

The Foolproof Universal Packing List

• 101 Best Packing Tips

All products have been hand-picked by our writers and editors. Items purchased through links may earn us a commission.

Related Tags

Explore more.

The Best Laptop Backpacks to Take Everywhere

Away Luggage Vs. Arlo Skye: Which Aluminum Suitcase Should You Get?

Which Calpak Luggage Should You Get?

The Weekender That Puts Other Bags to Shame

13 Types of Travel Bags: Guide To Choose The Best Option in 2023

Traveling allows you to expand your perspectives and fully embrace the world that surrounds you. However, if you want to start a journey it’s important to have all the items to make the most of your trip. Thankfully different types of travel bags cater to individual preferences and unique needs.

We may earn commissions when you make qualifying purchases through links or recommendations on our website. However, this has no impact on the price you pay for the products or services.

Choosing the bag from the options can be a tough decision, for many people. Whether you’re someone who travels frequently enjoys backpacking adventures or is simply a tourist exploring places investing in a travel bag can be both expensive and confusing.

It can be quite perplexing to determine which bag will suit your needs the best. So now let’s dive into our list of types of travel bags.

Different Types of Travel Bags Best Traveling Bags For All Your Needs

• Hard-shell Suitcases
• Soft-sided Suitcases
• Spinner suitcases
• Hiking Backpacks
• Carry-on Bags
• Duffel Bags
• Garment Bag
• Waist packs
• Camera Bags

The suitcase is undoubtedly one of the preferred types of travel bags. If you’re thinking of purchasing a suitcase, for your trip you’ll find a range of options in terms of shapes, sizes, and materials available, in the market.

1- Hard-Sided suitcases

• Water Resistance

A hard-sided suitcase is made from durable materials such as polycarbonate or aluminum. It is excellent for protecting fragile items, but they are heavy.

Pros of HardSide Suitcase

Providing excellent protection for your belongings against rough handling and impacts.

These suitcases offer better protection against rain or accidental spills, helping to keep your items dry and safe during travel.

Cons of HardSide Suitcase

Hardshell suitcases may weigh more, than options, which could potentially restrict the amount of items you can pack and result in a heavier overall luggage load.

Due to their rigid structure, hardshell suitcases offer less expandability and may not easily fit in tight spaces like overhead bins on smaller planes.

Why Consider Buying a HardSide Suitcase

If you value the safety and durability of your belongings HardSide suitcases are an option. They are perfect, for travelers who frequently carry items or desire protection against rough handling.

Moreover, their stylish design and ability to resist water make them suitable, for all sorts of travel settings. Nevertheless, if you prefer a more versatile alternative it may be worth considering types of suitcases.

Related: 9 Best Top-Rated Luggage Sets For 2023

2- Soft-Sided Suitcases

• Lightweight

Soft-sided suitcases are made from flexible materials such as nylon or polyester. Packing is easier with them since they are lightweight.

Pros of SoftSide Suitcase

SoftSide suitcases often come with compartments, which can be handy when you need room, for packing. Their flexibility also makes them great for fitting into spaces.

SoftSide suitcases are generally lighter than ones making them easier to carry and maneuver in crowded or cramped areas.

Cons of SoftSide Suitcase

SoftSide suitcases might not provide protection, against impacts and rough handling as hardshell options do which could make them more vulnerable to damage. 

Additionally, in conditions, the soft materials of these suitcases tend to absorb moisture potentially causing harm, to the contents inside.

Why Consider Buying a SoftSide Suitcase

SoftSide suitcases are an option, for travelers who value flexibility and a lightweight design. They’re perfect for those who frequently need to pack a bit or navigate environments. However, if you prioritize protection, against impacts and extreme weather conditions it might be better to opt for a suitcase.

3- Spinner Suitcases

• Ease of Use

Spinner suitcases have four wheels that rotate 360 degrees, making them easy to maneuver. Travelers who want to avoid carrying heavy bags will find them useful.

Pros of Spinner Suitcase

Spinner suitcases are designed with wheels that can move in directions making it easy for you to smoothly navigate through areas, busy airports, and crowded streets without any need to tilt or exert excessive effort.

These luggage bags are designed to be easy to use minimizing the amount of effort required when transporting your belongings. You can effortlessly push, pull, or glide them beside you making them suitable, for travelers of any age.

Cons of Spinner Suitcase

Spinner wheels have a likelihood of getting stuck on surfaces or cobblestones which could lead to instability or tipping. This is something to keep in mind when maneuvering on smooth terrains.

Spinner wheels occupy some space, inside the suitcase, which could potentially result in a decrease in the packing capacity compared to suitcases, with traditional two wheels.

Considerations for Buying a Spinner Suitcase

If your main concern is having a suitcase that allows for maneuverability and can smoothly move alongside you in busy or tight areas such, as airports and city environments then opting for a spinner suitcase could be an excellent option.

However, if you often come across surfaces or require packing space it’s worth considering the pros and cons, before finalizing your decision.

Related:   Best Spinner Wheels Luggage Reviews In 2023

4- Backpacks

• Easy to Access

If you’re looking for a way to keep your things organized while you travel, then you might want to consider using a backpack . This is also a popular type of travel bag. A backpack is a popular option for travelers who want to keep their hands free.

Pros of Backpack

Backpacks are incredibly versatile. Can be used for a range of activities whether it’s your daily commute or going on a hike. They provide room, for storage. Have multiple compartments making them perfect, for adapting to different requirements.

Backpacks are designed to ensure that the weight is evenly distributed across your shoulders and back which helps to reduce strain and improves your posture. This ergonomic advantage leads to increased comfort when using the backpack for a period of time.

Cons of Backpack

Backpacks are worn on the back, making it less convenient to access items quickly, especially when you’re on the move. Some designs may require you to remove the bag to retrieve certain items.

While ergonomic, improper packing or overloading a backpack can lead to discomfort or even injury due to uneven weight distribution. It’s essential to pack and distribute weight thoughtfully.

Why Consider Buying a Backpack

A daypack can be anything from a small backpack for a day out to a large trekking backpack for a long trek. In addition, wheeled versions are available, making them easier to move.  For extra comfort, choose backpacks with multiple compartments.

5- Hiking Backpacks

The hiking backpack is perfect, for individuals who love to explore the outdoors through hiking and camping adventures. These backpacks are made with materials that can endure conditions and they come equipped with useful features, like hydration packs, rain covers, and compression straps.

6- Carry-on Bags

• Convenient for onboard

When you travel internationally it’s really important to have a carry-on bag . You’ll want one that’s easy to carry, not too heavy, and built to last. Before you buy a carry-on bag be sure to check the size limits set by the airline. Available options of several types of travel bags in the market carry-on is a must-have luggage.

Pros of Carry-on Bag

It’s important to have a carry-on bag that meets the size requirements set by the airline. This will help you save time and money by avoiding checked baggage fees. Also, make sure to choose a bag made of material that can withstand the wear and tear of travel.

Cons of Carry-on Bag

Carry-on luggage, which is specifically designed to meet the size restrictions imposed by airlines typically has storage space compared to checked bags. This can pose a challenge when it comes to packing for trips or carrying items.

If you need a medium-sized or large bag then you should follow the 62-linear inches luggage guideline .

Related:   Best Suitcases With Most Durable Wheels In 2023

7- Duffel Bags

• Versatile and Spacious
• Easy to Carry

A duffel bag is a choice, for travelers who like a relaxed and versatile bag. They are lightweight easy to carry and convenient, for packing in spaces. If you prefer carrying it by hand or using a shoulder strap you have those options to choose from.

Pros of Duffel Bags

Duffel bags are great, for storing a lot of things and their flexible shape makes them perfect for kinds of travel, sports, and activities. You can easily pack clothes, equipment, and important items into them.

Duffel bags typically have ways to carry them, like handles and shoulder straps which make them convenient and comfortable to use in situations.

Cons of Duffel Bags

Duffel bags, with a design, may not offer the same level of protection and structural support as hard shell luggage, which could result in slightly less safeguarding, for delicate items.

Duffel bags, with a design, may not offer the same level of rigidity and protection as hard shell luggage, which could result in slightly less safeguarding, for delicate items.

Both traditional and rolling versions are available.

Traditional Duffel Bags

Traditional duffel bags typically utilize materials. Have a cylindrical shape making them perfect, for accommodating items of varying shapes, particularly sports equipment.

Rolling Duffel Bags

Unlike traditional duffel bags, rolling duffel bags have wheels for easier transportation. The bags are ideal for travelers who need to carry a lot of gear but don’t want to carry a heavy bag.

8- Tote Bags

• Versatility
• Environment Friendly

A tote bag is a stylish option for travelers who want to carry a few essentials. The bags are available in canvas and leather. Tote bags are regarded as travel bags for women due to their suitability for carrying small accessories.

Pros of Tote Bags

Tote bags are incredibly versatile. Can be used for a range of occasions whether it’s a casual outing or a work meeting. They have a design and a simple stylish appearance that makes them perfect, for any situation.

Tote bags crafted with materials are a way to minimize reliance, on disposable bags and embrace a more environmentally friendly lifestyle.

Cons of Tote Bags

Limited Security is a drawback. Tote bags often lack zippers or closures, making them susceptible to pickpocketing or items falling out if not properly secured.

Carrying heavy items in a tote bag can strain one shoulder, potentially leading to discomfort or posture issues with prolonged use.

Considerations for Buying Tote Bags

Investing in tote bags is a choice because they are practical and eco-friendly. They offer plenty of room for your necessities, which means you won’t have to rely on single-use bags. When selecting a tote bag look for one that has closures and ergonomic features to make sure it’s both stylish and comfortable.

Canvas Tote Bags

The lightweight canvas tote bag comes in a range of colors and patterns making it perfect, for carrying books, water bottles, and snacks.

Leather Tote Bags

The leather tote bag is a more stylish option, and you can use it as a day bag or a carry-on. They’re great for carrying your wallet, phone, and books.

9- Garment Bags

• Wrinkle Prevention
• Protection against dust

When traveling, garment bags keep your clothes wrinkle-free . A carry-on and a wheeled version are available.

Pros of Garment Bags

Garment carriers are a way to keep your clothes organized and wrinkle-free while traveling which is especially beneficial, for business trips, formal occasions, and important events. 

They provide a layer of protection, against dust, moisture, and potential damage ensuring that your garments stay in condition during transit or storage.

Cons of Garment Bags

Garment bags can be quite bulky. Might occupy room, than standard luggage, which could potentially restrict the number of other items you can bring along.

The capacity of a garment bag is typically designed for a specific number of garments, which might not be sufficient for packing a diverse range of clothing options.

Why Consider Buying a Garment Bag

If you often travel with formal clothing it’s an idea to invest in a garment bag . It will help preserve the quality and appearance of your clothes. Moreover, garment bags are quite useful, for people attending events, conferences, or weddings where keeping outfits in condition is crucial.

Carry-On Garment Bags

The carry-on garment bag fits in the overhead compartment of a plane. These bags are perfect for short trips where only a few outfits need to be carried.

Wheeled Garment Bags

For easier transportation, wheeled garment bag s are larger and come with wheels. Business travelers who need to carry several suits and dresses will find them useful.

10- Laptop Bags

• Provide Protection
• Organization is easy

Travelers who bring their laptops along know the importance of having a laptop bag . If you’re someone who frequently travels with your laptop it’s essential to invest in a good quality laptop bag. These bags did not provide protection, for your device. 

Also offers convenient compartments to store other necessary items. For added security consider using a TSA-approved lock and a comfortable padded shoulder strap to carry your laptop bag.

Pros of Laptop Bags

Laptop bags come with cushioned sections and durable materials to protect your laptop from jolts, falls, and other possible harm while you’re, on the move. 

They also usually have pockets and compartments to help you stay organized by storing your accessories, documents, and personal belongings.

Cons of Laptop Bags

Some laptop bags can be bulky and add extra weight to your load, especially when carrying other items, which might become tiring during extended travel.

While laptop bags have improved in design, they may still lack the style and aesthetic options of regular bags or backpacks, limiting your fashion choices.

Why Consider Buying a Laptop Bag

Laptop bags are an option for both professionals and students who want to safely and efficiently carry their laptops and important work items. They provide protection, convenient organization, and special features that cater to the needs of laptop users. Investing in a laptop bag is definitely worth it, for individuals who are always, on the go.

11- Waist Packs

• Convenience
• Accessibility

Fanny packs, also referred to as waist packs are bags designed to be worn around the waist. They are ideal, for travelers who prefer to have their possessions within reach while keeping their hands free. Waist packs are available in sizes and materials, like leather, nylon, and canvas.

Pros of Waist Packs

Waist packs offer a way to carry your items such, as keys, phones, wallets, and snacks without needing to hold them. 

They are particularly useful, for activities, travel, and workouts. 

With a waist pack, you can easily access your belongings saving time and avoiding the hassle of rummaging through a backpack or purse.

Cons of Waist Packs

Waist packs have smaller storage compared to backpacks, restricting the amount of items you can carry.

While functional, waist packs may not align with formal or certain fashion contexts.

Why Consider Buying a Waist Pack

Fanny packs are an option, for people who want something easy to access especially when they’re on the move or need to keep important items close by. They’re perfect, for trips, workouts, and outdoor activities when you want to have your hands free.

12- Camera Bags

• Easy Access

Camera bags serve the function of safeguarding and securing travelers’ cameras ensuring their safety while on the go. They come in sizes and styles including backpacks, messenger bags, and shoulder bags. These bags often incorporate features, like padding and compartments, for the organization of cameras and accompanying accessories.

Pros of Camera Bag

A camera bag comes with sections and cushioning to protect your gear keeping it safe while you’re traveling or storing it. 

It also has pockets and compartments that allow you to easily reach your camera, lenses, and other accessories helping you work efficiently when taking photos.

Cons of Camera Bag

Camera bags can be bulky, making them less convenient for casual outings or situations where minimal gear is needed.

A camera bag may lack versatility as an everyday bag, limiting its use beyond carrying camera equipment.

Why Consider Buying a Camera Bag

As a photography enthusiast investing in a camera bag is crucial because it offers protection, for your camera equipment ensures efficient organization, and provides convenient access whenever you need it.

13- Briefcases

• Professional use
• For Documents

Briefcases are a popular travel bag among all types of travel bags for business travelers. They are designed to hold laptops, documents, and other business essentials. Briefcases come in various sizes and styles, including leather, nylon, and hard-sided options.

Pros of Briefcase

A briefcase is an accessory that adds a professional touch leaving a lasting impact, in business environments. 

It not only helps in keeping your documents, gadgets, and personal belongings well arranged but also comes with specialized compartments, for different items to ensure optimal organization.

Cons of Briefcase

Briefcases might seem a bit formal, for relaxed occasions, which can restrict their flexibility.

Certain types of briefcases can also be quite weighty and cumbersome which could lead to discomfort when traveling or using them on a daily basis.

Why Consider Buying a Briefcase

A briefcase is a valuable investment for professionals who prioritize a sharp appearance and efficient organization, enhancing their overall image and productivity in work-related activities.

Different Types of Travel Bags: Conclusion

Choosing a travel bag can greatly enhance your travel experience. Regardless of whether you’re a backpacker, a business traveler, or a family, on vacation, there are a types of travel bags for you.

We’ve explored types of travel bags to help you make a decision based on your specific needs. It’s crucial to consider factors such, as space, style, and features when selecting a travel bag that offers both comfort and enjoyment throughout your trip.

FAQs – Different Types of travel bags

The best type of travel bag for backpackers is a backpack.

Yes, there are travel bags that are waterproof. When choosing a waterproof travel bag, look for bags made from waterproof materials such as PVC or nylon with a waterproof coating.

Yes, most airlines allow a carry-on bag and a personal item.

When choosing a camera bag, consider the size and style of your camera and accessories.

A rolling suitcase is designed to be rolled around, while a travel pack is a combination of a backpack and a rolling suitcase.

I am a content writer and WordPress Developer. I love to explore and Visit the most beautiful places in the world. I am foody and have tried Indian, Bangladesh, and Turkish cuisine, but I love Turkish food.

Similar Posts

Best HardSide Luggage for traveler in 2024

When it comes to traveling having luggage is crucial. There’s nothing quite, like hardside luggage in terms of durability and fashion. Whether you travel often or not having dependable baggage that keeps your belongings safe is always a choice. All image credit goes to amazon Hard shell suitcases offer a protective exterior, for your valuables…

A Beginner’s Guide to Smart Luggage – All You Need to Know

Do you want to purchase smart luggage but are unsure of where to begin? Because of their enhanced convenience and security features over the past several years, smart luggage and backpacks have grown more and more common.  However, several airlines are starting to forbid particular models of smart luggage.  They are seen as a security…

9 Best Lightweight Luggage For Seniors or Elderly | 2023

As a senior, traveling can be quite stressful. Not only are you concerned about the typical components of planning a trip – such as when and where you’re staying – but also about the type of luggage that best suits seniors’ needs.  You want your luggage to be lightweight and easy to carry, so navigating…

8 Best Luggage For Cruise Travel in 2023

Cruising can be a great way to see the world, but packing for your trip is often the most daunting task. Do your research and pick out a great piece of luggage that suits your needs! With so many different types, styles, and luggage sizes on the market, deciding which is best for cruise travel…

7 Best Rolling suitcases with the most durable wheels in 2024

Are you looking for a rolling suitcase or a luggage set but unsure which one has the reliable wheels? Nowadays wheel durability is a factor to keep in mind when making your choice. It can vary based on the manufacturer and materials used. Some brands use long-lasting materials, for their wheels while others may opt…

What is 62 linear inches Luggage – Best 62 inches luggage 2023

When flying with your luggage, it’s natural to be concerned about its size to avoid any additional fees at the airport. One commonly heard guideline is that checked luggage should not exceed 62 linear inches. Today, we will explore the meaning behind the term “62 linear inches” and understand why airlines attach significant importance to…

15 of the Best Travel Bags You Need for Your Next Vacay

PureWow editors select every item that appears on this page, and the company may earn compensation through affiliate links within the story. All prices are accurate upon date of publish. You can learn more about the affiliate process here .

Whether you’re a first-time or frequent flyer, the right bags can mean all the difference. Is your carry-on too big? Is your dop kit leak-proof? Is there enough room in your purse for all-day adventure? To help you get ready to take off—and thereafter—we went ahead and compiled a list of 15 of the best travel bags around, from hard-shell and soft-shell suitcases to weekend duffles and toiletry bags . So get those passports ready and read on to find your next favorite travel bag. Bon voyage!

How To Choose The Best Travel Bag

Domestic vs. International Travel Carry-Ons

We know that you’ve probably gotten away with taking a suitcase that definitely was not regulation carry-on size. Typically, domestic flights are a bit more lenient with your luggage dimensions, but a good rule of thumb for domestic flights is to make sure your carry-on bag fits within 22-inches by 14-inches by 9-inches. This size ensures that your bag—along with everyone else’s—is going to fit in the bins overhead on your flight. If you’re flying internationally however, these airlines are more likely than not going to be stricter. We suggest finding a carry-on that is 20 inches or shorter to take on your international flights. And always check with your airlines.

Soft Shell vs. Hard Shell Luggage

If you’re a no-fuss kind of traveler, a soft-shell suitcase is for you. They’re able to withstand a bit more wear and tear whether you’re taking it glamping or stuffing it in the overhead compartment. On the other hand, if you are packing items that need some added protection (think: a pair of heels you don’t want to break or a beloved designer bag), we suggest going with a hard-shell suitcase so that none of your valuables sustain any damage.

Two-Wheel Luggage vs. Four-Wheel Luggage

If you have ever been down-to-the-last-second late for a flight and almost missed it because you had to drag your heavy suitcase behind you, we suggest you get a spinner suitcase. A spinner has four wheels, which tend to be multidirectional, helping you not only have full control over your bag, but also allowing you to comfortably glide your luggage alongside of you as you maneuver through security to your gate. On the other hand, two-wheeled suitcases typically have wheels that are inside of the main compartment and required being tilted on their side to drag through the terminal.

Best Travel Bags At A Glance:

• Best Overall: Calpak Hue Luggage
• Best Checked Travel Bag: Béis Check-In Roller
• Best Carry-On Travel Bag: Away The Carry-On
• Best Backpack Travel Bag: Rains Waterproof Backpack
• Best Duffle Travel Bag: Dagne Dover Landon Carryall Bag
• Best Laptop Travel Bag : Lo & Sons The Seville Aire Tote
• Best Purse Travel Bag: Longchamp Le Pliage Travel Bag
• Best Eco-Friendly Travel Bag: Paravel Aviator
• Best Soft Shell Travel Bag: Yeti Crossroad Luggage
• Best Travel Bag Set: Samsonite 3-Piece Luggage Set
• Best Budget-Friendly Travel Bag: Amazon Basics Spinner Suitcase
• Best Splurge-Worthy Travel Bag: Rimowa Cabin Suitcase
• Best Toiletry Travel Bag: Everlane The ReNew Catch-All Case
• Best Weekend Travel Bag: Baboon to the Moon Small Go-Bag
• Best Customizable Travel Bag: Roam the Jaunt

9 Best Travel Pants (Tested by Our Comfort-Obsessed Staff)

1. Calpak Hue Luggage

Best Overall

She’s sleek, she’s stylish and she has a little bit of everything: A TSA-approved lock that keeps your valuables safe in transit, multi-directional wheels for back-ache-free transportation, interior compartments for peak organization, a large front pocket to stow any essentials you need in close reach and a price tag that won’t make too big a dent on your checking account.

2. Béis Check-in Roller

Best Checked Travel Bag

You get to the airport, lift your suitcase onto the scale, stare in horror as the red numbers flash “58 lbs” and proceed to spend the next five minutes on the floor, suitcase open, stuffing as much as you can into a spare bag. Don’t worry, we’ve all been there. So while this bag has all of your usual perks, the red light that turns on to indicate it's over the 50-pound weight limit makes this guy unbeatable as a checked suitcase.

3. Away The Carry-on

Best Hard Shell Suitcase

This is one of our tried-and-tested favorites. We love how protective its sleek styled shell is and it earns extra points for having a security lock for extra safety. Plus, it has a USB charging port so no more desperately searching for an outlet that’s close to your gate.

4. Rains Waterproof Backpack

Best Travel Backpack

This is made of durable, waterproof neoprene and has enough room to fit all your gadgets and gizmos. Bonus points for its hidden back pocket to help keep your valuables safe and secure.

5. Dagne Dover Landon Carryall Bag

Best Duffle Travel Bag

Whether you’re taking this by bus, train or plane, this duffle’s expandable design offers ample room so you’ll have a spot for literally everything. Case in point: the pocket specifically made for holding your phone and interior compartments for storing water bottles, shoes and everything else in between.

6. Lo & Sons The Seville Aire Tote

Best Laptop Travel Bag

Cushioned padding protects the thing most precious to you: your laptop. Plus, the thoughtful pockets keep things organized while you're on the go—no more franticly digging through your bag for your AirPods for a Zoom you have to join in two minutes.

7. Longchamp Le Pliage Travel Bag

Best Purse Travel Bag

This cutie is going to keep you looking stylish whether you’re grabbing after-work drinks or jet-setting to Europe. It’s the ideal size if you’re searching for a style-savvy carry-on that can easily stow your laptop alongside other daily essentials and makes for a roomy tote even when you’re not using it for travel.

8. Paravel Aviator

Best Eco-Friendly Travel Bag

Looking to get your hands on a sustainably sourced option? This fashion-forward carry-on may be easy on the eyes, but it's entirely made up of recycled material—from the interior lining and exterior polycarbonate shell to the zippers.

9. Yeti Crossroad Luggage

Best Soft Shell Travel Bag

Yes, Yeti delivers some of the best on-the-go travel mugs, but did you know Yeti produces some stellar luggage, too? This one in particular is especially worth the investment, thanks to its durable hard-shell exterior, 70/30 split dividers for keeping all your things secure, packing cubes for added organization and front pocket for stashing all the things you need to keep within close reach.

10. Samsonite 3-piece Luggage Set

Best Travel Bag Set

Durable hard shell? Check. Spinner wheels? Check. Three different sizes? Also check. This set comes in three different sizes, with one carry-on and two checked size suitcases.

11. Amazon Basics Spinner Suitcase

Best Budget-Friendly Travel Bag

Luggage is notoriously expensive, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t budget-friendly options out there to help you glob trot and save some money. Case in point: Amazon Basics’ travel bag line. This one in particular caught our eye, thanks to the durable hard shell, multiple packing compartments, TSA-approved lock and array of pretty colors.

12. Rimowa Cabin Suitcase

Best Splurge-Worthy Travel Bag

Before luggage brands started producing aluminum suitcases by the dozen, there was this one. The first of its kind, the Rimowa Cabin Suitcase’s iconic silver exterior is made from anodized aluminum and built with ball-bearing mounted wheels. Translation: this durable workhorse is going to last you for years to come.

BUY IT ($1,200)

13. Everlane The Renew Catch-all Case

Best Toiletry Travel Bag

Don’t be fooled, this toiletry bag might not be massive, but it can fit way more than you think. It’s got interior pockets to keep products nice and tidy, low maintenance fabric that’s easily cleaned and an expandable design that can handle being packed to the max with your skincare and beauty goodies.

14. Baboon To The Moon Small Go-bag

Best Weekend Bag

We love this guy for more reasons than we can list. Not only is it TSA-approved for carry-on size, but its water-proof shell has backpack straps, different sized handles, an over-the-shoulder strap, a lockable zipper, comes with four different pockets and easily stashes three-to-five day’s worth of your gear.

15. Roam The Jaunt

Best Customizable Travel Bag

If your goal is to avoid mixing up your suitcase with someone else's, having a personalized travel bag is where it’s at. From the option to monogram the exterior shell down to custom colors you can select from, you can personalize this puppy in a myriad of ways for luggage that matches your vibe perfectly.

The 17 Best Luggage Brands For Your Long-Overdue Trip

Commerce Editor

The Pakt Travel Backpack

• Pakt One Travel Duffel
• 25L Travel Duffel
• All Travel Bags
• Everyday 3L Sling
• Everyday 5L Sling
• Everyday 15L Bag
• Everyday 22L Backpack
• Everyday Tote
• All Everyday Gear
• 6-piece Packing Cube Set
• Clip-in Pouches
• Mojito Wallet
• 16oz Leakproof Travel Mug
• Sling Sport Strap
• All Accessories
• The Anywhere 5L Sling
• The Pakt One v1
• rePakt Pre-traveled Gear
• Sustainability

Your cart is empty

4 Essential Types of Travel Bags + How to Choose

Choosing the right travel bag will give you the freedom to organize your things, carry them comfortably, and bring all the essentials you’ll need along the way - without worrying about the safety of your belongings. 

Let’s break down each of the four main types of travel bags, who they’re best suited for, and how to find the perfect bag for your upcoming trips.

Four Essential Types of Travel Bags

Here’s what you need to know about the four main types of luggage to help you decide which one is right for you.

The Carry-On

The Carry-On is the most versatile travel bag on our list. For many, it’s the only type of luggage you’ll need, so it’s worth investing in a quality piece. You’ll find that there are many different types of carry-ons available, from rolling suitcases to backpacks, in soft and hard-sided versions.

Most major airlines in the US require a carry-on to be 45 linear inches or less, including the handles and wheels. Opting for a carry-on without wheels means you’ll have more packing space. If the flight is full, you may be asked to check a wheeled carry-on anyway, so you’re better off starting out with a bag that’s easier to accommodate.

The ideal carry-on is a soft-sided travel backpack or carry-on travel duffel that meets most airlines' carry-on size requirements. Soft-sided bags are easy to fit in the overhead compartment since they’re more flexible, Backpacks and duffels that are designed specifically for travel have special features that make them easier to carry plus multiple compartments and pockets for organization.

Pros of Choosing a Carry-On

• A well-designed carry-on is easy to pack and organize, with specialized pockets and compartments that make it easy to find and access your personal items.
• Carry-on travel backpacks and duffels are designed with comfort in mind, including padded adjustable straps and harnesses for the perfect fit and load distribution.
• For minimalist travelers who pack strategically , a carry-on can fit everything you need for most trips. Due to its smaller size and portability, a carry-on is equally well suited for crowded urban destinations.
• Less time at the airport, since there’s no need to wait in line to check your bag or to pick up your bag at the baggage claim.
• The risk of your bag being lost or stolen is greatly reduced since it will be with you at all times.

Cons of Choosing a Carry-On

• Those with physical limitations may find it difficult to carry a travel backpack or duffel for long periods of time. In this case, a wheeled suitcase or checked bag may be a better option.
• If you’re the type of traveler who likes to bring everything you might need, just in case, a carry-on might not be large enough to suit your needs.

The Best Carry-On Travel Bag Options

The Pakt One Travel Duffel

If you’re considering a carry-on travel duffel, you can’t go wrong with the Pakt One. Not your typical duffel, the Pakt One features a wrap-around zipper that allows you to pack it like a suitcase.

The Pakt One has a generous 35L capacity, is carry-on approved, and features a dual-compartment design with multiple pockets for easy access to your belongings. Its adjustable, padded shoulder strap makes it a joy to carry, and the padded laptop compartment keeps your computer safe on the go.

The Pakt Travel Backpack includes 20 unique features that make it the perfect carry-on travel bag. In addition to a dual-compartment clamshell design, this backpack comes with an anti-theft pocket, exterior water bottle pocket, waterproof toiletry pocket, and more.

Perfect for everything from weekend getaways to weeks-long adventures, the Pakt Travel Backpack is designed for comfortable carry and organization. From the luggage pass-through to the padded laptop compartment, this bag has every feature you need to travel like a pro.

The Personal Travel Bag

Many airlines allow you to bring a Personal Bag, sometimes called a personal item, onboard in addition to your carry-on. It simply must be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you. Technically, any purse, messenger bag, tote bag, daypack, or gym duffel can work fine as a personal bag, but we urge you to consider something that’s a bit more functional.

For example, if you’ve chosen a travel backpack as your carry-on, a multipurpose duffel or sling makes the perfect personal bag. That way you can wear your backpack on your back and carry your smaller duffle or sling crossbody, keeping your hands free as you make your way through the airport.

A multifunctional, smaller duffel bag can serve several purposes, too. It’s the perfect weekend bag for shorter trips, or it can be used as your gym bag when you reach your destination. The ideal personal bag has pockets for easy access to key items and padded, adjustable straps for comfortable carry.

Pros of a Personal Bag

• A functional personal bag has enough space for a couple of days worth of clothing and essential personal items, such as toiletries and small electronics. It may be all you need for a quick weekend getaway or overnight business trip.
• Carrying a personal bag in addition to your carry-on gives you more room for important items and allows for easy access to things you might need on the way to your destination.

Cons of a Personal Bag

• A personal bag isn’t large enough to bring everything you need for trips longer than a few days, even with strategic packing. For most trips, you’ll need to bring a carry-on or checked bag in addition to your personal item.

The Best Personal Travel Bag Option

The Anywhere 25L Duffel is the perfect personal travel bag for anyone who appreciates organization in a compact package. Use it as an overnight bag, personal item for flights, family organizer, or your go-to everyday bag. 

This bag is packed with features like an interior laptop sleeve, a luggage strap that secures to rolling luggage, and multiple oversized media pockets, exterior pockets, and waterproof water bottle holders. If you want easy access to your tech and snacks in-flight, this duffel is for you.

The Checked Travel Bag

Some people may prefer a checked bag for longer trips or those times when they need a special wardrobe, such as traveling to a colder climate.  A full-sized, wheeled suitcase is often the first thing we think of when it comes to a checked bag, but it’s certainly not the only option. 

A large backpack/duffel hybrid can do double duty as a checked bag or carry-on. This makes it an extremely versatile option for those who want the capacity of a larger bag without the clunkiness of a suitcase.

Pros of a Checked Bag

• A checked bag is large enough to accommodate your needs for longer trips or if you’re a heavy packer. A checked bag can also accommodate some larger items you might need if you’re traveling with children or bulkier clothing and gear.
• Once your bag is checked-in you won’t have to worry about carrying it through the airport or the TSA line. This can be an advantage for those with physical limitations, or those who are traveling with small children.

Cons of a Checked Bag

• Checked bags can be more difficult to maneuver in crowded areas like airports and urban destinations.
• You’ll need to spend additional time at the airport checking in your bag and waiting at the baggage claim.
• There’s a greater risk that checked luggage will get lost or stolen, which can be extremely inconvenient, especially if you’re traveling in a foreign country.  

The Best Checked Travel Bag Options

The Anywhere 50L is a versatile duffel/backpack hybrid that can be packed heavy for use as a checked bag, or light for use as a carry-on. It’s big enough to meet your needs for a month-long road trip, with a wrap-around zipper for suitcase-style packing and removable dividers to accommodate bulky gear.

Whether you choose to carry it like a duffel or a backpack, the Anywhere 50L includes premium, padded adjustable straps for comfortable carrying and load distribution. It’s also made from durable, water-resistant fabric for your peace of mind.

The Gear Hauler Travel Bag

The Gear Hauler is probably the least used of the four main types of travel bags. However, it’s extremely useful if you’re into recreational activities or hobbies that require bulky gear or clothing.

For example, your gear hauler can be used to pack camping gear, boots or bulky winter clothing. On long trips, your gear hauler can also be used as a second checked bag for additional clothing, personal items, and bulky souvenirs. A gear hauler can also come in handy as a laundry bag for wet and dirty items at your destination.

Gear haulers are typically made to be lightweight on their own, but can easily accommodate the 50-pound weight limit imposed by most major US airlines. Look for one that has comfortable straps and is made of quality material, especially if you plan to pack it heavy.

The Pros of Gear Hauler Travel Bags

• Gear hauler-style travel bags are ideal for packing sporting goods, camping gear, and other hard-to-pack items.
• A thoughtfully designed gear hauler is an extremely versatile travel bag that can come in handy at your destination for use as a heavy-duty tote, laundry hamper, grocery organizer, and more.

The Cons of Gear Hauler Travel Bags

• Gear Haulers are amazing for their purpose, but they are big and bulky. If you’re not traveling with bulky gear or clothing, you probably don’t need a Gear Hauler.

The Best Gear Hauler Travel Bag Option

Pakt’s Gear Hauler can easily be converted from a generous 60L open crate to a massive 120L zippered tote. It comes with sturdy and convenient handles on all sides, plus a semi-rigid lower half and soft upper half designed to expand according to your needs.

The heavy-duty TPU-coated bottom panel is waterproof to protect everything inside the bag in any weather conditions. The Gear Hauler is perfect for travel but it can also be used to store your sporting goods so you’re ready to go at a moment’s notice. Or, leave it in the car as an organizer… the options are virtually endless.

Travel Accessories to Consider

Packing cubes.

Packing cubes are essential for organizing your belongings, no matter which type of travel bag you choose. They’re handy for separating items by type, outfit, or even clean from dirty. Our Packing Cube Set includes a variety of sizes for convenience and versatility.

A sling bag is a bag that’s designed to be carried crossbody or over your shoulder. It’s the perfect accompaniment to your carry-on and makes a great everyday carry bag at your destination. The Anywhere 5L Sling features interior pockets for organization and a tuck-away strap, allowing it to double as your toiletry bag or tech case.

Waist bags are small travel bags with multiple compartments that strap around your waist or double a sling. They’re great for keeping personal items safe when you’re sightseeing, shopping, or hiking. Pakt’s Travel Backpack comes with a detachable waist bag that’s ideal for your cell phone, keys, wallet, and other items you want to keep close at hand on your trip.

Travel Totes

Travel totes are lightweight and extremely versatile, with lots of space in the large, main compartment. They’re ideal for use as a shopping bag, beach bag, or laundry bag at your destination. Our Packable Tote Bag can be compressed when empty, so it doesn’t take up hardly any space in your carry-on, yet comes in very handy for a variety of applications.

How to Choose the Right Type of Bag for Travel

Choosing the right type of bag for travel comes down to personal preference, the length of your trip, and your traveling style. You might be tempted to buy a bag that’s larger than you really need, but that can be a mistake on several levels.

Here are some key questions to ask when deciding which type of luggage is best for you:

How long do you typically travel?

Do you typically take long trips, short weekend getaways, or both? If you plan to travel for weeks at a time, you might want to consider a full-sized checked bag. 

But if you generally go on short trips that only require a couple of changes of clothes and some toiletries, a personal bag will probably be all you need. If you want a bag that will work for most trips of any length, a travel backpack or duffel will be your best bet.

What is your traveling style?

Are you an efficient packer or do you like to bring a lot of extras, just in case? Do you plan to participate in a hobby or activity that requires bulky gear or clothing on your trip? Are you traveling with small children or do you have physical limitations that will make it hard for you to carry your bag from place to place?

If you plan on working remotely while you’re on the road , a travel bag that includes a padded laptop compartment may be a top priority. And of course, a durable bag that’s water-resistant will be essential for most travelers.

Packing light has tons of advantages, but it simply isn’t realistic for everyone. Considering your traveling style and needs carefully is an essential step in choosing the right type of bag for travel.

How do you feel about waiting in lines?

If you travel with a checked bag, be prepared to wait in line at departure to check your bag and again on arrival to receive your bag at the baggage claim. These lines can take hours, especially if you’re traveling at peak travel times.

On the other hand, when you’re traveling with only a carry-on, you can often check in online and there’s no need to wait around for your bag at your destination either. This can be especially nice if you’re traveling to a foreign country where you’ll also have to go through customs.

If waiting in line frustrates you or you’ll be on a tight schedule, choosing a carry-on as your primary luggage might be worth sacrificing some space.

Wrapping Up

Continue reading.

Pakt’s 2023 Environmental and Social Efforts – Letter from the founder

Carry On vs Checked Bag: Pros, Cons & How to Choose

You have no item in your wish list.

New customer? Start here

• Compare ( )

Your cart is currently empty

Types of Travel Bags Unveiled: Your Ultimate Guide to Jetsetter Style

While everyone enjoys travelling to new places, we all seem lost when packing. Bringing the correct bags with you may make or break your overnight or weekend trip. There are many things to consider when picking out the correct travel bag for a vacation. If you can't tell them apart, don't stress! Look at our list of the different types of travel bags to get to know all about them.

Travel bags have come a long way from the bulky steamer trunks of the early 20th century to today's sleek, lightweight, and functional carry-ons. With people travelling more than ever nowadays, you will notice the oversaturation of different travel bags in the market! You'll find backpacks, travel totes, duffel bags, hard-side luggage, fanny packs, and many more!

The best travel bag satisfies your looks, weight, and flexibility needs. With so many options, it's essential to take the time to find a suitcase that will let you explore new places without worrying about the safety of your belongings. To help you find the correct travel bag depending on your destination, we bring you the top 9 types of bags for travel in this article !

What Are The Categories of Travel Bags?

Packing your belongings in the correct luggage for your trip is essential. A wide selection of travel bags is available to suit everyone's needs and preferences, whether they're going away for a weekend or a year. Let's look at the most common ten categories of travel bags available in the market:

Backpacks are our ever-familiar travel bags. Just like the name suggests, we wear these over our backs. It's spacious enough to hold your essentials for a weekend getaway and has two shoulder straps. Padded hip belts can be seen on some leather or canvas backpack models and distribute the load away from the shoulders and onto the hips.

So, if you need to carry many things, these backpacks have you covered! Carrying large bags will only cause a little discomfort to your shoulders if they have these padded hip belts. Backpacks are more space-efficient than other carry-on options. You can't beat them if you're looking to minimize your baggage.

The downside is that you can't pack as much as you would like because they aren't as roomy as other luggage options. Some, however, have a weight capacity of more than 22 pounds. There are a variety of secure closure options to choose from. Backpacks are best for camping, backpacking, road trips, and hiking.  Browse our travel leather backpacks

• Wheeled Backpacks

If you love the flexibility and minimalism of backpacks but want to avoid carrying them on your shoulders all the time, wheeled backpacks are for you! They are backpacks but with wheels and frames for convenient mobility. So you can take these around everywhere! Wheeled ones dramatically improve backpacks, especially for people who frequently carry large loads.

Wheeled backpacks can hold more gear since they are larger and more mobile than traditional backpacks. There are also wheeled backpacks that convert to shoulder bags. You can drag it around if you must move about a major airport on foot. You can also sling it over your shoulder and keep on moving if you need to use an escalator or get through a crowded area.

These backpacks come in a wide range of sizes and designs. They are typically less expensive and more spacious than other travel bags. These are best for journeys where you will spend most of your time in the city but have the option of spending some time in the countryside.

• Wheeled Luggage Bags

This rollable luggage has a durable shell, wheels at the bottom, and a retractable handle. They're handy since you don't have to carry the load. Since their introduction in the 1970s, rolling luggage has become popular among many travelers. These bags are best for rugged trips, and you can board these bags on the plane without going through security.

Different-sized wheeled bags are available. The large main compartment makes it easy to store a wide variety of stuff. In addition to the main compartment, two additional mesh-lined pockets are inside for storing smaller items. There are two common types of rolling luggage, with either two wheels or four.

Because of their mobility, the four-wheeled carts are often called "spinner" bags. Most wheeled luggage has sturdy sidewalls made of materials like ABS plastic, polyester, nylon, or a tough tarpaulin. So they are more durable and protected from harsh weather and dust than standard suitcases. They're also more resistant to damage or breaking.

• Duffel Bags

Duffel bags are large, tubular bags with sturdy zippers and carrying straps. These bags tend to have an enormous main compartment. However, when they're on the compact side, we call them Weekender bags; they're like a fancy gym bag, but you can take them with you on a weekend trip. The standard height for a duffel bag is between 30-36 inches.

The interior volumes also change. Some leather duffel bags have sections on the inside to help you sort things out. Others feature storage compartments made of netting on the inside. These compartments are ideal for storing small things. These bags are best for short trips, day trips, weekend getaways, or other possible trips!

Canvas and leather are two of the most common materials for duffel bags. The thickness of the material usually ensures that whatever is inside will be safe.They include solid straps or handles, so you can easily carry or drag them anywhere. The zippers are not only solid but long-lasting as well. Shop mens leather duffel bags and womens leather duffle bags

• Wheeled Duffel Bags

Duffel bags seem perfect, but do you wish they came with wheels? Well, then, you are looking for wheeled duffel bags. Rolling duffel bag is another name for it. Like regular duffel bags, you can expand them to hold additional stuff and stand up to rough treatment. The spinner wheel is a unique addition that makes it simple to pull behind you as you go.

You can happily bring a lot of stuff with you and not stress out about how to transport it all if you have a wheeled duffel. It doesn't matter how hefty it is; you can easily carry it! Duffel bags on wheels come with multiple carrying options thanks to their multiple handles, front, and side, and bag attachment clips.

If you don't have much to bring, a medium-sized or small bag will fit in the overhead bin. Plus, it will be easier to transport and navigate the airport. These bags are best for those who hate carrying things but pack too much stuff for their trips. They are also best for those with a bad back or tense shoulders.

• Messenger Bags

You may also know these bags as courier bags or shoulder bags. Initially, messengers would carry around these bags to transport documents during deliveries, hence the name. Nowadays, you may use the bag for everything from a weekend getaway to a night out.

They are available in a variety of styles. It has some smaller pockets on the outside. But the prominent design feature is a spacious primary compartment that can hold all your belongings. You can modify some to make additional room in the bag as they expand. Some messenger bags even have dedicated slots for electronic devices like notebooks, tablets, and smartphones.

You can wear a messenger bag on your body and quickly access your belongings. You can get to whatever you need by flipping it to your front. They are more professional and appropriate for business settings than backpacks.

Buy vintage leather messenger bags and canvas messenger bags

• Travel Tote

Traditionally, most women would use tote bags. However, now, the unisex version of this bag has become quite popular. Until recently, the tote bag wasn't even considered a travel bag; most people recognize them as small bags. But these travel tote bags are the best for short or day trips!

Even for weekend trips, you can sling a travel tote bag over one shoulder or wear it as a neck bag if you pack lightly. A travel tote typically has one spacious section where you may store your travel necessities.

Some may even have separate sections for your electronics, cash, and travel documents. However, most have a maximum of a single storage space. So you'll have to rummage around to find what you need. Shop our leather totes and canvas totes

Laptop bags are a good option for carrying computers, tablets, and other electronic devices. Suppose you must carry these devices for business, conferences, or commercial and recreational reasons. In that case, a laptop bag can easily suffice.

It's a straightforward bag with just one shoulder strap, although you can still get one with more. There is a zippered inside compartment designed to protect your electronics from scratches. Plus, there should be an additional section for your computer's accessories. Buy  leather laptop bags

The name comes from how the bag looks when it's full of things. With everything, a bucket bag looks too much like a bucket! The interior is spacious, with a circular or oval shape and an open top. A bucket bag's design makes it stable enough to stand by itself. Many sizes and shapes are available on the market, making it easy to find something that works for your trip.

Depending on the style, you may carry these bags in various ways. The standard bag has enough room for a change of clothing, some toiletries, and a phone.You may store all of your belongings in a single large pocket. Some have zipped compartments perfect for storing a cell phone, passport, or other small essentials.

Most bucket bags close with a drawstring, which helps with effortless opening and closing whenever necessary. Ensuring the drawstring is tight enough so the bag won't open independently is essential. If you love tote bags but need minimal luggage, these bags might be the best choice.

What Are Traveling Bags Called?

The most common term people use to call travelling bags is "Luggage." Luggage is any bag or container used to transport belongings on a trip.

As a general phrase, "luggage" refers to a wide variety of bags that you can use for various purposes and styles of travel. Travelling bags can range from simple suitcases to large duffel bags, backpacks, tote bags, and messenger bags.

What Is The Most Common Type of Luggage?

Common luggage categories include backpacks, suitcases, and carry-ons. Including their handles and wheels, the average size of a carry-on bag is 22×9×14 inches, making it suitable for storage in an aeroplane overhead bin. Storing them in a train's overhead compartment or a car's trunk is easy. So they are convenient for commutes and vacations.

Suitcases are standard among travelers but can be large, and you need to check them in at the airport. You can have them with a hard or soft exterior, with or without wheels, and in various sizes. The suitcase's length + breadth + height can be anywhere from 62 to 158 inches, though this varies per airline.

Designed with portability and durability in mind, nowadays, backpacks include ergonomic shapes and plenty of pockets. They also come with many cool features that make life easier on the road. Backpackers frequently use them.

Essential Factors to Think About When Choosing Luggage

There are many options for suitcases, and it can be challenging to find the ideal one for your trip. Before making a purchase, think about the following:

Find out what size suitcase you need to carry your necessities before you go luggage shopping. A carry-on size duffel bag could be ideal if your vacations rarely exceed a week and your belongings are pretty light. Smaller bags, like backpacks or messenger bags, are convenient for storing the necessities for shorter trips. These would suffice for overnight camping or a weekend at a local beach.

However, wheeled luggage helps ensure that everything you need for your trip is there. Mainly, if you are going somewhere cold and need bulkier goods like coats, sweaters, and boots, these bags greatly help.

• Extra Security Features

Remember to consider all the functions you need from a suitcase. You can easily find all your necessities with the zip closure of a travel tote or duffel bag. 

However, some luggage has two-way zippers and cross straps to hold your belongings in place. In comparison, others allow you to attach a TSA-approved lock for extra security.

Not all travel to the same destination; your bag should suit the place. You may cruise through the Caribbean, drive across the country, or fly halfway around the world. No matter where, your luggage is bound to become battered and bruised. So, longevity will always matter.

While there are many options for luggage, it's worth spending a little extra on a sturdy suitcase to ensure it lasts for many trips. How frequently you travel and how you get there should determine the level of protection you look for in a suitcase. Consider whether the bag is water-resistant or can withstand scratches and shock absorption.

When you start packing for your travels, neck pillows, sweaters, and good shoes first appear in your mind. Of course, they are crucial for your comfort, but what about a sturdy travel bag to keep all your belongings safe? Do you need to want to know where to begin when choosing between all the different types of travel bags? 

Well, no worries! We'll guide you in deciding by listing all the types of bags for travel and the most essential features to look for in a new travel partner. Hopefully, now you can choose the perfect travel bag with ease. Consider looking at our vast travel bag collection here for a head start! Thanks for reading till now.

Key Takeaways

• There are several varieties of suitcases available to meet your every travel requirement. You can choose from various bags, such as a backpack, a backpack on wheels, a suitcase, a duffel bag, a bag on wheels, a messenger bag, a travel tote, a laptop bag, or a bucket bag.
• For convenience and flexibility, nothing beats the simplicity of backpacks.
• Wheeled backpacks combine the portability of backpacks with the ease of wheels, making them perfect for use in urban areas where you may need to switch between walking and rolling.
• Wheeled luggage is a convenient and roomy alternative for travelers who prefer to roll their bags rather than carry them.
• Duffel bags are the best for those who carry more stuff for all their travels.
• Messenger bags are now ideal, convenient and practical options for anything from weekend excursions to work trips.
• Travel totes and laptop bags are perfect for you if you want to go on short or day trips or carry less luggage for your trips.
• The perfect travel bag for your trip is the one that fits your demands and preferences in terms of size, security features, and durability.

Shop more: Cute Travel Bags | Luxury Travel Bags

Related Posts:

• Backpack vs Bagpack Debate
• Best Time to Buy Luggage
• Difference Between Purses and Handbags
• Best leather laptop bag
• brown leather backpack
• custom leather journal
• Laptop bags
• leather backpack
• leather backpack purse
• leather bags
• leather journal
• Leather laptop bag
• leather passport cover
• leather passport holder
• leather passport sleeve
• leather rucksack
• mens leather backpack
• mens passport cover
• passport wallet
• travel passport holder
• women passport holder
• womens leather backpack

On every order, every day!

We value your security

30 days money back guarantee

Whatsapp ID: 8617714348460

To revisit this article, visit My Profile, then   View saved stories .

• Backchannel
• Newsletters
• WIRED Insider
• WIRED Consulting

Adrienne So Gear Team

The Best Travel Bags for Wherever You’re Headed

If you buy something using links in our stories, we may earn a commission. This helps support our journalism. Learn more . Please also consider subscribing to WIRED

Best Carry-On for Most People Travelpro Maxlite 5 Read more

Best Hard-Shell Carry-On Away Carry-On Read more

Best Soft-Shell Carry-On Yeti Crossroads 35L Read more

Best Bag for a Lifetime Briggs & Riley Baseline CX Read more

Whew! You've made it all the way across the globe. But have your toothbrush, pajamas, and running shoes made it, too? If you're a frequent traveler, it's easy to obsess over the logistics of getting your stuff clean, organized, and in good working condition upon arrival. Paying for a decent travel bag and a few useful accessories means buying a little peace of mind, especially when a few yards of zippers and some nylon are the only barriers between your precious belongings and the belly of an airliner.

Whether you're slinging a duffel into a car trunk for a weekend trip or packing for a whirlwind jaunt across Asia, we've got you covered. Need a bag for your passport or groceries? Don't forget to check out our other guides, like the Best Laptop Backpacks and the Best Recycled Bags , for more picks.

Updated April 2024: We reorganized this guide and added new picks, such as the Yeti Crossroads, Tom Bihn Aeronaut and Trinity, the Frame Carry-On Max, the Lo & Sons O.G. 2, the Camelbak A.T.P. 20, the Calpak Luka Duffel, and the Rux 70. We also updated the information on sizing and checked links and prices.

Special offer for Gear readers: Get a 1-year subscription to WIRED for $5 ($25 off) . This includes unlimited access to WIRED. com. Subscriptions help fund the work we do every day.

Best Carry-On for Most People

Look around any airport—if you see flight attendants or pilots, they will probably be rolling around a Travelpro suitcase. We like Travelpros because you get a lot of bang for your buck. They're durable, light, and not too expensive.

For only a little over $100, the Maxlite 5 is one of the more affordable Travelpro suitcases, and at 5.4 pounds, it's very light! The exterior toiletry pocket is a nice touch for when you go through security and need to take out your liquids, and the zippers are also quite strong and don't tend to get stuck. The wheels also rolled nicely on both the spinner and roll-aboard versions. Reviewer Matt Jancer did note that the aluminum handle extensions did sometimes stick and the main grab handle on the bag is only single-stitched, which may cause durability issues farther down the line. However, he has seen no issues yet. This probably the best bag you can get in the $100 to $150 price range.

Best Hard-Shell Carry-On

Away's business practices may have raised some eyebrows , but there's no denying that this company changed the travel market entirely. It has increased in price since we first tested it, but multiple WIRED staffers still use the classic Away hard-shell carry-on ( 9/10, WIRED Recommends ) as their travel suitcase.

Hard-shell suitcases tend to be heavier. There's also not as much give in the case, so you may find it hard to squeeze in more items than in a soft-shell bag, bu they look a lot sleeker than their soft-shell counterparts and protect fragile items better. The Away weighs 7.5 pounds, which is pretty standard for a hard-shell carry-on. When I tested it, I liked that it had multiple height settings and that the polycarbonate shell wiped clean and stayed mostly scuff-free (it helped that my tester was in the darker navy color). Away's suitcases also come with a built-in TSA-approved combination lock, four spinner wheels capable of rotating 360 degrees, and an included laundry bag to keep dirty clothes separate from the rest of your stuff. The handle did feel a bit wobbly, though.

★ Alternatives: So many companies now offer a direct-to-consumer, stylish, hard-shell carry-on similar to the Away's. We've tried ones by Monos ($255) and July ($295) . Besides price, the differences are mostly negligible. I like July's aluminum bumpers, but they do add weight. The Monos's handle rolls out more smoothly, but the July's pebbled surface doesn't show scuffs as badly. Both have survived multiple cross-country trips, being checked as baggage, and being ridden on by two small children with no damage.

Paravel also offers an Aviator carry-on ($395) that touts itself as the world's first carbon-neutral carry-on; it has an interior lining made of recycled plastic bottles, a telescoping handle made of recycled aluminum, and vegan leather trim to help it stand out from all the plain black bags at the airport. Product reviewer Jaina Grey fell in love with its roomy interior and durable, anti-scuff hard-shell exterior.

Best Soft-Shell Carry-On

Yeti's coolers and cups are famous for being bomb-proof. The company recently launched a luggage line that's similarly overbuilt. The Yeti Crossroads 35L is a 22-inch roller bag that's carry-on size for most major airlines. It weighs 7.7 pounds, on par with soft-sided competitors of the same size.

I recently spent a week dragging the Crossroads up and down grimy subway station escalators, thumping it across cobblestones, and scrunching it into overfull overhead bins during a trip to London, Paris, and Brussels. The blue 700D nylon on the front and sides looks just as fresh as it did out of the box while the molded polycarbonate shell on the back has a few well-earned battle scratches. The two extra-large fixed wheels are rolling as smoothly as ever and hopped up curbs so well that I grew to favor them over smaller spinner wheels. The Crossroads has a half-dozen well-placed pockets and sturdy zippers that didn't give me any anxiety even as I tugged them hard while smooshing down to fit souvenirs into a carry-on with 8 days of clothing. —Martin Cizmar

Best Bag for a Lifetime

Do you only want to buy one suitcase and never think about it, ever again? Briggs & Riley is one of the few companies with a lifetime unlimited warranty. I bought a Briggs & Riley carry-on as my first and only post-college purchase. Right now, it has lasted over 20 years. Periodically, I bring it into the one Briggs & Riley-approved dealership in my town to get a zipper pull put back on, and it's fixed for free in a few days. Its components are top-of-the-line. The face fabric is a heavy-duty ballistic nylon that’s water-repellent and abrasion-resistant. After having been dragged all over the globe, from the Philippines to Turkey to Iceland, the gleaming red is just as bright.

The low-profile wheels nor handles have never broken. The grab handles are also luxuriously smooth and padded, and there's an interior folding garment bag for my husband's suits. The only downside is that at 9.3 pounds, it’s pretty heavy.

★ Alternatives: If you need an absolutely bomber-tough rolling suitcase and don't mind its 9.6-pound weight, the Pro Front-Access Carry ($799) will stand up to more abuse than most rolling bags, with its aluminum frame and 70-percent-recycled polycarbonate body. WIRED reviewer Chris Haslam says it's his favorite rolling bag in years. Jancer also likes Travelpro's Platinum Elite carry-on ($315) , which he calls one of the most high-end polycarbonate bags on the market.

Boone Ashworth

Reece Rogers

Best Backpack

When I reviewed the Cotopaxi Allpa in 2018 ( 9/10, WIRED Recommends ), it had only recently launched. Now, a half-dozen years later, it is one of the most popular travel backpacks that I see online and in airports all over the world. It's a combination of a camping backpack, a suitcase, and a soft, frameless duffel. You can splay it open like a sandwich to pack it easily; access items through a side zip; put it on your backpack and secure its weight with a sternum strap; or squash or stomp it into any overhead compartment or corner of your car trunk. The use case for this bag is extremely specific—the same people who are bopping around Thailand for several weeks in one backpack are not the same people trying to look professional at a work conference. But it is sturdy and comfortable.

★ Alternative: I took the Ekster Packable Duffel ($250) on several weekend trips this spring, and found that it more than upheld its claims of being built for “smoother journeys, on and off the grid.” This travel bag converts from a backpack to a duffel, with two separate compartments that also splay open for easier packing. The 600-denier exterior and water-resistant zippers are so sturdy that when we ran out of space in the car, we lashed it to the roof rack with surf straps and drove for hours in the rain. It, and its contents, remained pristine.

Best Convertible Bag

Every serious traveler knows the name of Seattle-based Tom Bihn, manufacturer of bomber bags that will last you a lifetime. The Aeronaut 45 is the classic Tom Bihn convertible carry-on, which the size of the maximum allowable carryon bag on a plane.

You get everything from a Tom Bihn bag that you pay for. It’s made of incredibly sturdy 1050 denier ballistic nylon, with bombproof YKK zippers. It has both hidden backpack straps and an extremely comfortable cross-body strap. This is commerce director Martin Cizmar's bag, and he's tossed it around and lugged it down rough streets and through crowds where roller bags are a liability. He owns two and the first lasted for more than a decade. This is the bag that both he and I would use, if we didn't have to constantly test other bags.

Best Personal Item

Some airlines are not content with charging you extra for checking a bag and now charge you for overhead bin space . The Tom Bihn Trinity ( 7/10, WIRED Recommends ) addresses that problem by providing a space for you to pack everything you need while still fitting underneath the seat in front of you. As the name suggests, it has three main compartments and three ways to carry—either as a briefcase with padded grab handles, a backpack, or as a shoulder bag with two attachment points.

It has three main compartments which can be arranged to your liking; for example, on one of the side compartments, you can zip a water bottle holder into place or unzip it for more room. It wasn't quite as versatile as I expected; I found that I prefer a small duffel with one main compartment that I can organize as I like. However, it does fit under the seat in front of me, even with clothes, laptop, and four (four!) hardcover books that I somehow stuffed inside it.

Best Work Bag

I've been traveling a lot for work and for family reasons in the past few months, and the bag I prefer for my personal item is the Lo & Sons O.G. 2, which is the larger version of the brand's Nouvelle purse ( 8/10, WIRED Recommends ). It comes in a medium and a large version; the medium is adequate as an everyday bag, but the large turns it into a versatile work/travel bag. It’s low-profile and has both smooth leather grab handles as well as a shoulder strap. I have kicked it under plane seats and around airports, and the nylon doesn't show any damage. There's a hidden separate compartment if you spill water on yourself, and it has sturdy feet so you can put it on an airplane bathroom counter and dig for your makeup without it falling over or getting the bottom of the bag too disgusting. The toothed zippers do tend to crinkle and snatch at your knuckles when the bag gets overstuffed, but I suppose you could always, uh, avoid overstuffing your bag.

★ Alternatives: We have plenty of recommendations in our guide to the Best Laptop Totes , but we love Lo & Sons. The Catalina Supreme Tote ($338) is also great for weekend trips. Again, there's also a bottom compartment for a pair of shoes, or anything else you need to keep separate.

The Best Hiking Daypack

The Camelbak A.T.P. is so useful that I’m always startled to realize it only has a 20-liter capacity. I have it in the 100 percent recycled white color, which saves water and only emits half the greenhouse gas emissions by eliminating the dying process. It’s a panel loader, which means you can unzip the top and see exactly where everything goes, like a duffel. This is convenient when packing for trips—I was able to fit clothes, a Dopp kit, and electronics for an overnight trip. (I know these types of zippers fail more often than top loaders, but it does make it easier to arrange and sort items near the bottom of the pack.)

I particularly like how narrow it is. It fits my back and goes under airplane seats that even my children’s backpacks can’t. The bottle pocket has a zipper that makes it expandable so it can fit a little coffee thermos or my giant Yeti water bottle . Exterior compression straps also help squeeze my clothes even smaller. This is a great backpack if you want something that looks sleek enough for a work bag but is durable enough to take on a weekend trip to Yosemite.

★ Alternative: I also love the Patagonia Black Hole Backpack ($149) . This 25-liter bag is the perfect combination work/adventure bag. The suspended 15-inch laptop pocket clips shut, and the rest of the pockets are thoughtfully placed. It’s extremely light (a little over a pound) and is made from 100 percent recycled ripstop fabric.

Best Duffel Bag

The Big Haul ( 8/10, WIRED Recommends ) is our favorite duffel because it hits the right balance of robust build materials and pockets without being too heavy to lug around all day. The standout feature of the Big Haul series, which comes in 28-liter to 120-liter options, is the ability to easily reposition the carrying straps, which feature plastic fishhook-style ends that slip into fabric loops. You can connect one strap end-to-end or double up on two straps in an H pattern for more stability with heavy loads. Adding and removing the straps isn't super fast, but it's not difficult, either, and six low-profile loops seems less intrusive than six rattling plastic buckles.

Two small interior pockets and an exterior pocket keep small things organized, and its water-resistant fabric is thick and tough without being stiff. All the sewing around the grab handles feels very robust too. Padded backpack straps hide away under a padded pocket on the top of the bag. This means that when you sling the Big Haul over your shoulders to give your arms a rest, your back is against the relatively clean top of the duffel, rather than a wet, dirty bottom side that's been set down on the ground. The current iteration of the Big Haul is also made with recycled nylon. What's not to love? —Matt Jancer

★ Alternative: For slightly more money, the classic duffel in this category is the Patagonia Black Hole Duffel ($159) , which also comes in a variety of colorways and sizes. You can either carry it by the grab handles or with the shoulder straps, and it's made from 100 percent recycled polyester with a TPU-film laminate. I (Adrienne) have had the 40-liter version for almost 15 years now and the laminate has yet to peel. It also fits as a carry-on on flights.

The Best Expedition Bag

If you like outdoor sports, you probably need a good expedition bag—that is, a huge, burly duffel that you can just throw all your pointy ice axes, trekking poles, or camp chairs into that you can take anywhere and everywhere. Reviewer Matt Jancer's expedition bag of choice is the Red Oxx PR5. He's used it for whitewater paddling trips and to lug mountain climbing equipment from coast to coast without a single frayed thread. Everything about Red Oxx is overbuilt. The zippers are huge, its thick pieces of nylon webbing are robustly sewn, and chunky metal rings hang the detachable carrying strap. All that said, it's not abominably heavy. At 3.4 pounds it's still lighter than many wheeled bags.

★ Alternative: If you've ever gone to a popular outdoor destination, like Yosemite or Everest, you've probably seen stacks of North Face Base Camp duffels . This is the quintessential expedition bag. My own personal bag is the OnSight Tarmac EPO , but the company no longer exists; I also have a Mountain Hardware duffel ($180) and after 20 years, the coating has finally started to peel.

Best for Camping

We love everything from Rux; I'm currently testing the waterproof adventure tote ($150) and I use it for everything from my climbing gear, to picnic gear, to bringing my kids' roller skates and soccer balls to the park. I have also leaked an entire water bottle in it and it stayed contained and out of the bottom of my car.

But for camping (or any outdoor pursuit, really), what you need is a Rux storage system , which, as the artist and filmmaker Van Neistat puts it, will help you kit your shit . It holds its frame shape, which means you can stack and organize inside of it just like a box, but it folds down like a bag for easy storage once you're at your destination. It's also light and waterproof and comes with a wide array of accessories . This is an upgrade for everyone who currently sorts their camping, climbing, or snowboarding gear in a series of $5 plastic totes and stacks them in their trunk.

The Best Aluminum Suitcase

Perhaps you've seen those Instagram-friendly, shiny aluminum suitcases and wonder whether it's worth the investment. Aluminum is extremely durable and can be machined with precision. That means it will protect your belongings better, and you can close them with latches instead of zippers. Your suitcase will last longer and be more secure— zippers are pretty easy to break into —and generally have fewer points of failure.

In my opinion, the cost-benefit analysis generally weighs against them. Aluminum suitcases are usually heavier and won't flex as much if you have overpacking tendencies, and I find them painfully conspicuous. Any suitcase with a decent warranty policy will painlessly cover any repairs. If you must have one, we like Arlo Skye's the Frame. Arlo Skye was founded by alumni from Louis Vuitton and Tumi, and reviewer Matt Jancer says that everything about the Frame screams robust quality, from the leather grab handles to the combination-lock latches. It also comes with a removable battery bank and has a few more liters of carrying capacity than the similarly-sized Away. The main disadvantage is that the interior organization is a bit lacking.

★ Alternative: Do you want the benefits of an aluminum suitcase without the drawbacks? You might want to consider Monos's Hybrid Carry-On ($325) . You won't fool anyone into thinking you've shelled out for a 100 percent aluminum suitcase, but Jancer notes that it's only a pound or so heavier than the competition and the aluminum frame offered better protection than any 100 percent polycarbonate suitcase that he tried.

A Good Emergency Go Bag

To be clear, any bag here could be considered a go-bag—even a grocery bag works when you have to leave the house imminently. But reviewer Nena Farrell used Calpak's duffel for an emergency surgery, and she is kicking herself for not getting it sooner. It was big enough for everything from makeup bags and extra outfits to a massive book and Nintendo Switch, and was comfortable to carry thanks to the large straps.

The shoe compartment was big enough for sandals and slides, but not big enough for shoes with an ankle. It was also a great place to stash haphazard Ziplocs of emergency toiletries and medications. There are some side pockets inside too, plus an exterior side pocket and a pass-through panel to place it on top of your luggage. It was a great hospital companion, but Farrell can't wait to take the Luka somewhere a little more fun.

Other Bags We Like

Not every good product can snag a best-in-category title, but there are several more bags we've tested that get our thumbs-up.

Osprey Ozone 40L for $280 : At 4.47 pounds, Osprey claims this bag is the lightest carry-on suitcase. It's also made from 400D recycled bluesign-approved nylon and is treated with DWR. This bag is light enough to easily hoist above my head and has also been checked multiple times.

Gregory Alpaca 40 Duffel for $140 : This duffel weighs a scant 2.7 pounds, but the water-resistant fabric and extraordinarily beefy (though plastic) buckles make it a solid bag for adventuring. There's an exterior pocket for storing shoes or dirty clothes. The backpack straps don't tuck away for storage—you have to unclip them—but might be the most well-padded, comfortable straps I've encountered on a duffel. Exterior daisy chains and an interior zippered pocket round out the impressive features list.

Land's End Waxed Canvas Duffel for $180 : Most duffel bags these days are made of nylon, and while it's tough to call a material that's been popular since the 1940s “modern,” nylon bags don't have the old-school charm that this waxed canvas bag does.

Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler 40L for $149 : This bag weighs 1 pound, 13 ounces, which is only slightly heavier than air. It also has backpack straps that stow away in a front pocket.

Skyway Epic Carry-On for $160 : At 7.1 pounds, the Epic is an average weight. The handle is a wee bit more finicky than our top pick, and the Travelpro's wheels glide a little more nicely. Still, the Epic is a solid choice.

Target Signature Weekender Bag for $81 : Looking like a cross between a duffel and a handbag, the Weekender has a structure that product reviewer Louryn Strampe says can become overfilled, so keep that in mind if you plan to bring it onto a plane as a carry-on. She appreciates its durability and the many internal pockets for organization, though, and its rather long five-year warranty.

Solgaard Carry-On Closet Plus for $345 : It's a tiny bit over what most airlines list as the maximum dimensions, but the difference is so small that it's accepted 95 percent of the time. WIRED reviewer Louryn Strampe praises its optional clip-in closet clothing organizer, which makes for efficient packing. The built-in TSA lock is easy to use, and there's an internal power-bank pocket. This suitcase is included in our Favorite Recycled Products guide.

Samsonite Outline Pro Carry-On for $200 : This is a hard-side, four-wheeled spinner carry-on made from an outer shell of durable polypropylene. Standout features include an interior fabric made from 100 percent recycled plastic bottles and a “WetPak” storage pocket for keeping damp items separated from the rest of your luggage.

Adidas Defender Duffel for $40 : If you're looking for an inexpensive duffel that'll handle some light-duty traveling, this is a good way to save $100. The fabric is significantly thinner and less sturdy than that of other duffels in this guide, and it lacks backpack straps. But for taking on the train or tossing into a car trunk, it'll do the trick.

Bags We Don’t Like

Some bags just aren't worth the asking price, especially with so many good alternatives at all price points.

Peugeot Voyages Carry-On Spinner for $595 : What a price tag for a plastic-case suitcase. You can see where Peugeot tried to imbue the Voyages with some luxury, such as the metal riveting and built-in travel locks, but the case felt no more solid than a budget hard-sided bag, and the USB charging port felt cheap, like an outlet you'd find built into a seat in an airport terminal.

Eagle Creek Caldera Convertible International Carry-On for $469 : At 6 pounds, 2 ounces, this bag is a bit heavy. There's a zip-off 19-liter backpack that you can separate from the rest of the 37-liter bag, but when they're zipped together, the combined size doesn't meet carry-on restrictions.

Ebags CTS Carry-On Spinner for $200 : This one wasn't awful, but there are much better options for the money. Its hard plastic sides felt more brittle than the hard-sided plastic Away suitcases. The handle rattles a lot and it didn't roll quite as smoothly as other bags.

A Few Travel Accessories

Once you've got your bag, you'll want to pack it with a few more useful items:

Apple AirTag for $24 : If you have an iPhone, it's one of the best ways to keep a digital eye on your bags. Drop an AirTag into an interior pocket to make sure you and your luggage are reunited at your destination. Don't have an iPhone? We suggest the Chipolo in our guide to the Best Bluetooth Trackers .

Eagle Creek Specter Pack-It Cubes Three-Pack for $35 keep everything inside your bags organized by allowing you to separate it into different cubes, so you won't ever have to hunt through seven pairs of socks to find your bathing suit again.

Calpak Clear Cosmetics Case for $75 : Calpak’s viral clear cases come in three sizes and a ton of colors for the edge trims. Reviewer Nena Farrell loved the small size for my gym bag and traveling with a smaller carry-on bag, while the medium was a great size for my daily makeup or larger suitcases.

Troubadour Buddy 2.0 Tech Case for $75 : You probably need a case to organize your spare charging cables and power banks. I've been testing this compact, waterproof, and recycled bag that fits neatly into my personal item.

UrPower Portable Steamer for $24 beats a travel iron because it's far lighter and you don't need to hunt down an ironing board at your hotel. WIRED reviewer Medea Giordano and I both have been using UrPowers for years. For a tiny thing, it's powerful and effective at steaming practically anything. You just need to refill it often.

Samsonite Manual Luggage Scale for $15 is handy when you're packing a heavy bag for an upcoming trip. Use it to weigh your luggage and make sure it's within the weight limits. International airlines are sticklers for carry-on weight, and even American airlines will be unforgiving about weight for checked bags.

InCase MacBook Sleeves for $50 will keep your laptop from bearing the damage caused by airport security lines. Travel through an airport without a case and it's only a matter of time before a bare laptop or tablet picks up nasty scratches and dents. Check our guide to the Best MacBook Accessories for more.

How to Pick the Right Size Bag

Every airline sets its own dimensional requirements for carry-on baggage, so if you want to be safe, you should check your airline's requirements before packing. But broadly, they're split into two categories: domestic and international.

Domestic flights by US airlines (and a few others) have standardized on 22 x 14 x 9 inches.

International carry-on bag sizes tend to be about 21 inches tall and a bit narrower, but they're all over the place. It's tough, because many international airlines will measure your bags at the airport and reject anything even slightly bigger than the allowed size. If you fly outside the US a lot, you may as well buy a bag sized for international flights.

You'll also want to check each airline's weight limits. They vary wildly, but some international airlines restrict you to 15 or 20 pounds, including the weight of the bag itself. For example, there are some East Asian airlines that limit carry-on bags to 11 pounds. Once you subtract 6 or more pounds for the bag, you're not left with much wiggle room to put stuff inside.

When to Remove Battery Banks

Battery banks, also known as power banks, are a travel must-have. Whether you're using a tablet to watch movies on your flight or relying on your phone to coordinate rideshares, hotel check-in, and handle your boarding passes, you've got to keep those devices charged and topped up. Many bags offer a removable battery bank that slides into a special pocket or notch of the suitcase.

For carry-on luggage on a flight in the US, you're allowed to bring a lithium-ion battery of 100 watt-hours or less. You don't need to remove it from the suitcase's pocket if you're storing your bag in the overhead bin.

Lithium-ion battery banks are not allowed in checked luggage. If you check your bag or have to gate-check it, make sure to remove the battery bank before you give your suitcase to the gate agent. Slip the battery bank into your purse, backpack, or pocket for the duration of the flight.

Medea Giordano

Scott Gilbertson

Louryn Strampe

Eric Ravenscraft

Christopher Null

WIRED COUPONS

Extra 20% off sitewide - Dyson promo code

GoPro Promo Code: 15% off Cameras and Accessories

Get Up To Extra 45% Off - May Secret Sale

Select PCs & accessories 10% off w/ Dell coupon

VistaPrint Promo Code: $10 Off $50+

50% off Select Products - Newegg Promo Code

NatureDiary » Blog » Travel Gear » Tips and Guides

Different Types of Travel Bags with Pros, Cons & Uses

The holiday season always commences the mood for getaways. Scheduling a vacation requires a lot of packaging to make the expedition more home-like and congenial. Different types of travel bags can help you pack your belongings by your preference and budget.

Travel bags are the most crucial aspect of travelling as they help carry belongings easily and keep them safe. Finding a well-built travel bag that is spacious enough to fit in all the travel essentials is truly a bonus. Various travel bags are available in the market- trolley bags, backpacks, daypacks, duffel bags, messenger bags, etc.

When buying, it is essential to take note of the material, durability, and purpose-filling value of the bag. This article will help you decide the right kind of travel buddy to purchase based on your budget, travel type, location, destination, etc.

1. Travel Backpack

A travel backpack is a type of bag designed to pack up all travel essentials. These backpacks are available in various sizes on the market, depending on the trip duration. Also, they are relatively cheaper than other types of travel bags.

The best travel backpacks in India come with segregated pockets and compartments, which assist with packing the luggage in an organized manner. As a result, the systematic arrangement of the bags also makes the items easier to find.

While travelling, opening and taking out necessary items from a travel backpack is more convenient than other travel bags. The spaciousness and affordability of the bags make them perfect for travel.

Best Use : Ideal for all kinds of travelling, including short weekend travel to hiking depending upon the capacity.

• Available at affordable prices.
• Systematically enables the simple packing of luggage .
• Convenient for adventure-based trips for 2-15 days.
• Travel backpacks are portable and lightweight.
• Various designs and colour choices are available.

Disadvantages

• Travel backpacks with an external or internal frame are weighty compared to frameless ones.
• Not suitable for carrying to school, college, or office.

2. Duffel/ weekender bag

These are cylindrical-shaped bags with thick drawstrings for support to the shoulders while travelling.

Duffle bags are compact to store your travel essentials for the weekend. For this reason, they are also known as weekender bags.

The Duffel or weekender bags make a good travel buddy as they are highly adaptable and durable. Moreover, these bags are very spacious and an excellent choice for storing bulkier items.

Best Use : Ideal for weekend travels or journeys by train, bus, or car.

• Effortless to pack and easy to carry.
• Duffel bags are voluminous with an extensive storage capacity.
• Robust quality that can withstand wear and tear during travelling on car, train, and bus.
• Easily endures the weight of heavy luggage.
• Carrying weight on a single side can cause shoulder, back, and neck aches.
• Lacks additional compartments for organized storage.

3. Rucksack/ Backpack for Trekking, Hiking, Camping

The rucksack or trekking/hiking/camping backpacks are lucrative voyage mates as they come with hip and chest belts that help secure them around the traveller’s body. The belt prevents the trekking bag from sliding off now and then and keeping it in a firm position. This is a massive bonus for travellers.

These travel bags are larger-sized backpacks that are fit for trekking, hiking, camping, etc. Such bags are for the stout-hearted globetrotters who lace their vacations with adventure.

To support the body on uneven trails, the best rucksack bags often come with an internal or external frame. While these frames add extra weight to the bag, you can also choose a frameless travel backpack for extra comfort.

Best Use : Ideal for climbing, hiking, trekking, camping, and adventure sports.

• These backpacks offer enormous storage for stacking up all trekking essentials required for the trip.
• Rucksacks are waterproof and portable.
• These bags have belts to get perfectly latched onto the body.
• You would not need to carry any other bag when carrying a trekking rucksack.
• Overfilling the bags can cause aches and discomfort to the user.
• They are costly compared to ordinary travel bags.

Also Read: Backpack vs Rucksack

4. Trolley bag

These are bags that come with wheels attached to their base. Trolley bags help with serving the effortless push-and-pull purpose to the users. They are of great use when the luggage is heavier.

The best quality trolley bags are very sturdy and can endure the weight of many items without the risk of breaking them. Trolley bags can mostly be seen at airports and railway stations.

Trolley bags are usually made of polypropylene, ABS, polycarbonate or polyester . The presence of wheels makes them easier to glide along without using physical exertion to carry them.

Best Use: Railway and air travel without adventurous activities like trekking, or hiking.

• Trolley bags are excellent for travelling by air or train because of their compact design and easy storage facility.
• These travel bags can have enormous capacities to carry heavyweight luggage.
• Trolley bags are easy to carry and lock in a secure position.
• Most trolley bags have a giant compartment along with small pockets to accommodate all travel essentials.
• On rougher surfaces, the wheels can pose trouble by not gliding over smoothly.
• Trolley bags are a costly investment.

5. Laptop travel bags

These travel bags are explicitly crafted for carrying the laptop on a trip. They are available in different shapes depending on the laptop size.

One important feature of a travel laptop bag is that it comes with extra padding and cushioning to keep the laptop safe during the journey.

People find these bags suitable for travel as they are made essentially for storing laptops and their accessories, so the risk of the device getting mangled is minimal.

Best Use: Ideal for office or business travel.

• These bags are very budget-friendly.
• The additional paddings protect the laptop from getting scratched or damaged by other luggage.
• You can also put your mobile phone charger, power bank, or Bluetooth speaker inside a laptop backpack.
• They are extremely compact and convenient to use.
• They have limited storage space and can barely accommodate any bulky items.
• Can become cumbersome to manage in the presence of additional luggage.

6. Anti-theft travel backpack

Anti-theft backpacks are great travel partners as these bags ensure to satisfy the number one concern of travellers- safety.

These travel bags are specially designed to provide numerous security measures like complicated zippers, password systems, anti-wear-and-tear materials, and several hidden chambers.

Besides the anti-theft feature, these bags also provide the usual high storage facility like travel backpacks.

Best Use : Ideal for long-distance and solo travelling.

• It ensures maximum defence against the chances of theft.
• Anti-theft travel backpack consists of additional clandestine compartments for the storage of valuable items.
• This type of travel bag is portable & easy to carry.
• These bags are expensive.
• It does not come with a huge capacity like rucksacks or trekking backpacks.

7. Camera bag

These are the type of travel bags that are crafted just for keeping and carrying the camera and its accessories protected. Such delicate devices are challenging to carry with other luggage; having separate bags makes it beneficial to keep them safe.

Camera bags are primarily waterproof and flexible, keeping your camera protected from the weather, and making them suitable for travel. These bags are of great use for bloggers, photographers, or simply any traveller who wants to capture special moments without ruining their camera by keeping it with the other bulky luggage.

Best use: Ideal for beginner and professional travel photographers.

• It helps keep the camera segregated from other luggage.
• The camera bags are lightweight and easily portable.
• Most camera backpacks come with a laptop compartment.
• These bags are waterproof and keep the camera protected from rain and sudden liquid splashes.
• Limited storage space to accommodate extra items.
• It cannot be used for other purposes.

These are the essential backpacks that accommodate all essential travel items for a day.

Daypacks are excellent travel buddies for people who commute every day, especially students and office workers.

As they are lightweight and easy to carry, a backpack is also ideal for a day trip to a nearby location.

The best thing about casual backpacks is that they come in a wide range of designs, shapes and colours.

Best Use : Ideal for short-distance travel for a day.

• These bags are durable and can be used almost every day.
• Daypacks have a decent number of compartments to add to the storage.
• Such bags are kind of featherlight and agile.
• These bags are also very affordable.
• Daypack bags are not very spacious, so, they are not ideal for long travel.

9. Messenger bag

These types of travel bags are square-shaped or rectangular bags with crossbody straps, and they are the bigger versions of the typical sling bags with additional storage space.

Messenger bags are a great choice as they make space for handy travel essentials without posing any risk on the road.

These bags are also good for office-goers who commute shorter distances between home and work. The traveller does not have to hold these bags, making them beneficial for people travelling by bus, train, or even cycling.

Best Use : Excellent for cycling, biking, train, or bus journey.

• Messenger bags offer a decent amount of space to keep items.
• The strap makes it easy to latch the bag onto the body without putting much exertion into carrying it.
• It keeps the hands unattended as they are mostly attached to the shoulders.
• The storage space of messenger bags is limited.
• These bags are prone to the potential risk of theft.

10. Wheeled/ rolling backpack

These travel backpacks with wheels attached wheels serve the purpose of a backpack with an additional trolley system.

Wheeled backpacks are also called rolling backpacks as you can carry or roll them when needed.

They can be carried and glided through smooth surfaces, making them a good choice for travelling.

Best Use : Ideal for travelling on flights or railways.

• Wheeled backpacks are easy to carry with less effort.
• These bags are highly spacious and can endure the weight of bulky goods.
• Offers a good deal of security as they have a decent lock system.
• They are expensive and not budget-friendly for many.
• Systematic storage becomes difficult due to the lack of separate storage compartments.

11. Travel tote

These are oblong-shaped bags of moderate size suitable for female users. Travel totes have either a drawstring or crossbody strap and sometimes both make travel feasible.

These bags are made of varying materials to fit people’s necessities. There are sustainable cloth-based tote bags for people who prefer environmentally friendly items. For people who like sturdy bags, leather tote bags are the way to go.

Their portability and ease of convenience make them a good choice for short-distance travel. They are considered the best alternative to plastic bags by the present generation.

Best Use : Ideal for carrying lightweight documents, books, a small number of fruits and grocery items.

• Attractive designs and colours are preferred by women.
• Travel tote bags are budget-friendly and cost-effective.
• They are handy during shopping at the local market.
• The storage space these bags offer is not substantial enough to stock many things.

12. Waist bag

These types of travel bags have a pouch-like appearance, and fastening by a belt-like strap helps secure them.

The waist bag, just like the name suggests, is fastened around the waist which is incredibly trendy among the new generation.

These bags are great for keeping delicate essentials like mobile phones, earphones, cosmetics, and first aid kits within reach while travelling. Their mobility and voguish look make them a striking travel companion.

Best Use: Ideal for carrying essential travel gear and accessories during travelling and hiking.

• The waist bags are incredibly handy during travelling and hiking.
• Waist bags are very economical.
• As they are worn on the waist, these bags are less susceptible to robbery.
• These bags are highly convenient and portable.
• They are tiny and cannot accommodate more than a handful of small items.

There are different types of travel bags based on purpose, design, style, size, and price for short-distance travelling, spending vacations, hiking, trekking, mountaineering, camping, etc.

If you are planning for a one-day trip, choose a daypack. For short weekend travelling, travel backpacks up to 40 litres of capacity, duffel bags, or anti-theft backpacks are an ideal choices.

On the other hand, trolley bags are great for vacations, and leisure travelling, and rucksacks are suitable for trekking, hiking, and camping. Similarly, gadget fanatics, photographers, and vloggers use camera and laptop bags during travelling, and fashionable people prefer trendy waist bags.

So, depending on the purpose and use, you can choose a suitable type of travel bag from the reliable backpack brands . If you have more queries about the types of travel bags, let us know in the comments.

We hope that you have enjoyed this article. Let us know your experience! If you like us to write on any specific topic, send your request to [email protected] . Your feedback is highly appreciated. We will love to hear from you!

Is This Article Helpful? Cancel Reply

• Rating 5 4 3 2 1

How to Choose the Best Travel Bag For Your Next Trip

A lot of travelers despise packing, but I love  it. I think of it as a puzzle – a fun challenge, and I set 3 specific goals for myself when thinking about an upcoming trip. 

1) Bring only what you need.

2) Make sure whatever you do bring, you use (at least once).

3) Everything has to fit into two bags that you can walk with for at least a mile.

These are my goals that fit the kind of travel Michelle and I like to do. This is the most important consideration when deciding what bag(s) to use for your next trip: “How do I like to travel and what works best for me?” 

Disclosure: This free article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase after clicking one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Your support helps us continue to provide helpful, free content for you.

Table of Contents

How to choose the best travel luggage for your trip

Maybe you’re the kind of traveler that likes to have a lot of options, doesn’t like to do laundry on the road, and takes ride shares wherever you go. You might be more inclined to use traditional check-in luggage.

Maybe you’re a minimalist backpacker who is using a lot of budget airlines that charge extra for checked-in bags and can fit everything you need into a carry-on. You might be more interested in a backpackers bag.

What we’ve found in our travels is that each trip is different . By thinking strategically, choosing the right bag(s) for your trip can enhance the overall experience.

First, let’s break up the type of luggage and bags available into 3 categories:

1. Check in bags: anything that’s not allowed in the cabin of a plane due to size and weight restrictions

2. Carry on bags: any bag that meets the size and weight restrictions of the airplane cabin. This includes…

3. Everyday packs and bags : something you can bring on the plane in addition to your carry on. Laptop bags, backpacks, purses, slings, clutches, etc…

The main difference in these categories is the size, which affects packing capacity. Obviously the bigger the bag, the more things you can theoretically bring (and also bring back, if you like to buy things on your trips).

When deciding on the size of the bag needed, we like to think of the following things:

How many different kinds of weather situations will we encounter on our trip? Weather changes are the hardest thing to pack for. When we went from Vietnam to New Zealand, we went from 85 F degree weather to 32 F degree weather. We made sure to have both warm and cold weather clothing with us, meaning: we needed a bigger bag.

How often will you be in transit? More specifically, how much walking will you be doing? We are not backpackers, but we’ve found our check-in backpacks to be helpful in places like Europe and Asia where there might be a lot of public transit and walking (and uneven surfaces along the way).

Backpacks also help us to limit the items we bring because there’s only so much you can carry on your back. On the flip side, if we’re traveling and then staying in one place for awhile, we might bring our bigger, roller duffle bag which allows us to carry more items. This works best when we know there will be adequate transportation to and from the airport to our lodging. 

Should I check-in bags when flying or not? Bag size also affects what can and can’t be brought in an airplane cabin, which is relevant to baggage fees. Unfortunately, every airline has its own baggage policy so make sure to check on these things when booking flights. This is especially important when flying budget airlines that charge a fee AND have weight restrictions for each bag.

If you’re traveling overseas, hopefully checked bags are included in your ticket. But say you’re going to Vietnam and then to Thailand, Cambodia, and then returning to the US. You’ll want to see how much it will cost to check in your bags when going from country to country. Some of our well-traveled friends are minimalists and devoted carry-on-only travelers . This group amazes me because they can go for months/years with this setup. I’m not convinced this would work for us but I can see why it appeals to some folks. Their bag never gets lost. They rarely, if ever, pay for baggage fees. And most importantly, it helps support their minimalist lifestyle.

They say (and I believe it), the best way to not overpack is to use a smaller bag. 

For most of the travel we do, Michelle and I use a combination of one check-in bag and one everyday bag, per person. With this combination, we feel more than adequate for trips that are 2 weeks, up to 3 months long.

Here are some combinations we’re planning to use for our next trips:

A 2-week trip to visit family in San Diego: We’re flying Southwest so we’ll either check in one large rolling bag to share, or 2 smaller rolling bags (because it’s free), and carry our everyday laptop backpacks. We won’t be moving around a lot and are hoping to be using a car to get to and from the airport.

A 2.5 month Europe trip to Italy and Croatia : This trip will be tricky to pack for, as we’ll have multiple things to consider. The weather will start warm and get colder. This means we’ll need to bring different types of clothing. We’ll be doing some walking to and from accommodations and taking a road trip, so we don’t want to bring too big of a bag. However, I’m also planning to do a fair amount of cooking so I want to be able to pack some cooking supplies with me. Most likely Michelle will use her check-in backpack and I’ll check our roller duffle. We’ll also both carry our everyday packs. 

Here are some of our favorite recommendations for check in suitcases/luggage, carry on bags, and everyday packs:

The Best Check In Bags

Our Osprey Farpoint 55 Travel Packs . Note that we exchanged the smaller detachable bags with one another for color contrast (easier to spot at baggage claim). They don’t sell it this way.

Travel Backpacks for Europe and Overseas Trips

When people think of large backpacks for travel, they often think of hiking backpackers who have to carry all their gear for overnight treks.

What makes travel packs different from those of their hiking counterparts is that travel backpacks have larger main compartments and fewer technical features. Travel packs are made for versatility. You can use them as backpacks or hide the straps for better transportation (less chance for getting snagged on something). They are also more affordable then hiking backpacks. 

Why a backpack in general? We’ve personally found them the easiest to travel with for almost all situations. In places like Asia and Europe, many of the Airbnbs we’ve stayed at do not have elevators. Carrying bags on your back is far easier than trying to lug it up by hand. We also like to walk and use public transportation when possible. Rolling bags over cobblestone isn’t much fun and again, stairs! So many places have stairs. Versatility and adaptability is important to us which is why Travel Packs are our preferred, go-to bags for most trips. 

Osprey Farpoint 55L Travel Pack: Men’s (click here) and Women’s ( click here )

Our favorite travel bags. In addition to having all of the features mentioned above for a travel pack, these are actually two travel bags in one ! You can unzip the top portion away from the main bag to give yourself an extra daypack. We love the daypack for hiking or for exploring cities on foot. It’s the perfect size for these kinds of experiences. Then, when we are in transit to another area, we can zip up the smaller pack back onto the bigger pack. Who doesn’t love a 2 for 1 deal?! See our full review and video of the Osprey backpack here. Note: the only main difference between the men’s and women’s packs are the bag height and strap size. We both have the women’s packs as it fits us the best. Learn more about the Osprey 55 men’s backpack on REI.com Learn more about the Osprey 55 women’s backpack on REI.com

REI Co-op Ruckpack Travel Pack: Men’s ( click here ) and Women’s ( click here)

Similar to the Osprey with its two-bags-in-one offering. We’re not a huge fan of all the extra straps and non-streamlined look, but that’s nitpicking and personal preference. This is still a great travel pack. Similar to the Osprey option, the men and women sizes vary slightly, but the main difference here is the color.

Learn more about the men’s REI Co-op Ruckpack Learn more about the women’s REI Co-op Ruckpack

P.S. We highly suggest packing cubes for all your clothing and gear, whatever bag you use. Packing cubes are the best way to consolidate and organize your items. The best way to use a cube is to roll your clothing tightly and fit them tightly into each cube. ( Click here to learn more about travel packing cubes )

Our roller duffel and non-wheeled duffel bags

Roller Duffel Bags

We love our rolling duffel bag that we got for our service in the Peace Corps. This REI bag has been with us over 7 years and we’ve had no issues with it (and it’s been everywhere). What’s great about a duffel bag is that it can expand or compact to fit what’s needed.

Our duffel bag also comes with a set of rugged wheels which roll smoothly through airports and can handle the cobblestone streets of Europe better than most. It doesn’t have a hard shell frame, so you do have to be careful if you’re packing any fragile items (like wine or olive oil bottles – yes, we’ve done both in this bag).

REI Co-op Big Haul Rolling Duffel – 30″ The updated version of our roller duffle bag. Remember, we’ve had ours for more than 7 years which means it’s a great investment and value. Durability and quality are important and we’ve been impressed with REI’s own products. Pro tip: we highly suggest the 30″ over the available 34″. Why? Don’t forget that all airlines have weight restrictions. Bigger bags only mean you can carry more. It doesn’t help with trying to make weight restrictions. In other words, it’s not worth paying for something extra that could be detrimental. 

 Learn more about the REI Co-Op Big Haul Rolling Duffel here

Eagle Creek Orv Trunk Wheeled Duffel – 30″  Similar size to the REI version but with more pockets and features. It also includes a lifetime warranty which is a great benefit. It means your investment is protected. There might be some sticker shock here, but again, this is a bag that could be with you for a long time and lots of adventures. That’s awesome!

Learn more about the Eagle Creek Orv Trunk Wheeled Duffel here

Duffel Bags

If you’re looking for a more inexpensive version, consider a regular duffel bag without wheels. We sometimes will bring a rolled-up duffel bag with us when we travel to Vietnam because we know we’ll want to take a lot of gifts and packaged food home with us. We can pack the duffle compactly inside another suitcase until we get to our destination.

Obviously, the thing to consider here is that without the convenience of wheels, a duffle bag may not be great to carry over long distances. These are really more accessory bags and shouldn’t be your go-to bag for most trips.

REI Co-op Big Haul 60 Duffel Most duffel bags are just one large main compartment. This bag has several compartments and extra backpack straps. You can also roll it up, making it extremely packable and versatile.  

Learn more about the REI Big Haul Duffle here

REI Co-op Roadtripper Duffel – 100L Your classic duffel. No frills, not a lot of features but still great for hauling stuff. Best for souvenirs and other extra items you need to carry.

Learn more about the REI Roadtripper Duffel here

Traditional Luggage

Though we typically use a Travel Pack or Duffle, there are times when we take a trip and use good ol’ fashioned luggage. The structure and frame can help protect fragile items you might be carrying, and they usually offer the best carrying capacity in relation to overall weight.

Also, whoever invented the four-wheel system is a genius, as it makes moving them through an airport so nice and easy. Note: we suggest hardshell cases over soft fabric suitcases. The hard shells are more durable and weather-resistant. 

Chester Hardshell Luggage with Spinner Wheels  We have the 26″ carry-on size (pictured below). Chester luggage is sleek, light-weight, and super durable. Valuable features include well-organized interior compartments, removable laundry bag, and TSA-approved locks. Multi-directional wheels and telescoping handle make maneuvering smooth and effortless. Disclosure: Chester provided us a complimentary bag to test. All opinions and comments are our own.

Learn more about Chester Travel Luggage carry-on version here

AmazonBasics Hardside Spinner Luggage – 28-Inch Similar to the Chester but with different interior compartments and fewer extra features. Also cheaper.

Learn more about AmazonBasics Hardside Spinner Luggage here ( Check out the carry-on version here )

Save money, work smarter, travel deeper with our free Resource Guide for Digital Nomads .

The Best Carry On Bags

Minimalist travel backpacks .

Sometimes I dream about hanging out in this category of bags. I love the idea of having everything you need in one manageable pack (it would have helped in Lisbon ) but we’re not quite there. Meanwhile, some of our nomad friends avoid checking in bags like the plague. 

But this type of traveling requires some special planning . For example, it seems like every device we own has its own charger and cord. Our minimalist traveler friend has only bought electronics that can be charged from his laptop. Even his toothbrush and electric razor. It also means having a ‘capsule wardrobe’ that works in a variety of situations and climates. Clearly, access to laundry becomes very important.

Finally, starting with a smaller bag is a good way to help you pack only the items that you really need. A smaller bag means it’s easier to carry. You don’t have to worry about it getting lost by airlines, and you won’t bring home unnecessary souvenirs (because they won’t fit). 

Here are some of our favorite minimalist travel backpacks:

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack  Fun. Colorful. But most of all, functional and practical. Cotopaxi makes some awesome bags and has a great mission.

Check out the Cotopaxi Allpa travel pack here

Timbuk2 Wander Pack  Streamlined, no-frills look and design. Timbuk2 makes very durable products and recently, their bags have become and important market to them. 

Check out the Timbuk2 Wander Pack here

Our everyday backpacks. The Errant Pack (left, Jedd) and the Reed Pack (right, Michelle)

Everyday Backpacks and Laptop Bags

Of all the bag categories, this is my favorite. If there’s one bag Michelle and I use on a daily basis, it’s our laptop backpacks.

These everyday bags are smaller than the carry-on bags and travel packs we’ve mentioned so far. They are big enough for a short weekend trip. Most importantly, they are small enough to count as a personal item on a plane – something you can carry in addition to a carry on bag. This means they can easily fit underneath the seat in front of you. 

These bags are not meant to store a large amount of gear and should be comfortable to walk with for long periods of time. They should have plenty of storage for your laptop, cords, and other gear (like a water bottle). Often we use these bags to take with us to coffee shops or coworking places.

These are not necessarily the kind of bags you’d want to use for a long city excursion or hiking (though it’s possible if you weren’t carrying around heavy things like your laptop).

If something happened to my check-in luggage, I wouldn’t mind so much. But I’d be heartbroken if something happened to my everyday backpack. It usually has the most important items. 

Here are the bags we personally use for our everyday backpacks:

Michelle: Clark and Mayfield’s Reed Backpack 17″ Michelle is a huge fan of Clark and Mayfield bags in general. Each bag has tons of storage and thoughtful pockets. Ever since they launched their new backpack, it’s been her go-to, everyday bag. She’s also used a number of their laptop handbags for travel over the years.

Jedd: Boundary Supply’s Errant Pack  I spent a lot of time researching which bag I wanted. I wanted something that could hold my laptop against my back (for support), have a decent main compartment for storage, and selfishly, I wanted it to also look great. The Errant Pack more than delivers on all levels. 

Check out Boundary Supply’s Errant Pack here

Day Packs for Travelers

Is this category necessary? How is it different than an everyday pack that we just talked about?

I’ve found that when we travel overseas, two things we love to do is explore a town/city on foot and go hiking. In these scenarios, we can be out for over 6 hours, which means our everyday packs are probably too big. We only want the essential items – namely, our water bottle, camera, and snacks (don’t forget the snacks).

As we mentioned before, our bigger (and highly recommended) travel pack, the Osprey Farpoint, comes with its own daypack that we love. We’ve used it on so many walks and hikes that we often bring the travel pack on our trips because of this bag alone. 

If you don’t have a day pack or sling, seriously consider getting one. It isn’t necessary for everyone, but we’ve found a lightweight day pack extremely helpful for us to keep a wide range of bags available for different travel scenarios. Usually they’re small enough to pack unobtrusively in your luggage until you arrive at your destination.

Here are some day packs and slings that we recommend:

Osprey Daylite Travel Pack This is the same size bag that comes with our Osprey Farpoint Travel Pack. Again, it’s so versatile. For a while I was using this as my everyday backpack, but it ended up being just a tad bit too small for that purpose. It’s still perfect for hiking or day excursions to explore towns and cities.

Check out the Osprey Daylite backpack here

REI Co-op Ruckpack 18 Pack Very similar to the Osprey pack with a different design. It’s got great reviews and reliability. If I didn’t have an Osprey Daylite, I’d easily go with this pack. 

Check out the REI Ruckpack 18 here

Final Tips and Thoughts

We hope that this guide is helpful but we also recognize that what works well for us may not for you. The most important thing to consider when purchasing a bag or luggage is your own travel preference:

• What kind of travel do you enjoy and plan to do?
• How many things do you need when you travel?
• What are your budget considerations (for purchasing a bag, baggage fees, etc…)?

Some tips when making a travel bag purchase:

• Read online reviews, especially the most critical/helpful ones. There’s also a fair amount of folks that review bags online (check out Chase Reeves on YouTube ). You can read our detailed review of our favorite travel bag, the Osprey Farpoint here .
• Check to see if the manufacturer has a great warranty. Bags can be expensive and they will go through a lot of tough situations (have you ever seen an airlines crew loading bags?). Damage is expected. It’s nice to know that some companies will repair damaged bags with no question. We also love that with REI allows returns within the first year of your purchase if you’re not satisfied with it. See your travel bag as an investment.

Last but not least… don’t forget the value of travel packing cubes . They are a game-changer when packing your gear and clothing into your new travel bag!

Did we miss something? Do you have a bag that you absolutely love for travel? Let us know in the comments.

You might also like these travel gear posts:

– Long Term Travel Essentials: Clothing Recommendations – Packing Hacks of Frequent Travelers – 12 Items We Take With Us on Every Trip – Our Favorite Alternatives to Travel Wallets – Osprey Farpoint 55 Travel Backpack Review – Minimalist Travel Toiletries List for Women – Best Women’s Laptop Bags for Work & Travel

Like this post? Pin it for later or share with friends!

Similar Posts

What Is Travel Hacking?

I almost cringe at the term “travel hacking”- it sounds like something illegal. But that’s the commonly used phrase for the art of getting free or discounted travel through award points and miles. Try not to think of hacking like a guy on his computer in a dark basement breaking into your bank account online. Think…

Beyond Vacation: The Value of Travel

If vacation is an escape from real life, then we propose that the real value of travel is about much more than taking vacation. To us, intentional travel has changed our lives. (When we first became digital nomads, we essentially gave up vacations. This is because we can work and travel at the same time….

Our Eco-travel Journey: How To Become a No Footprint Traveler

Is truly eco-friendly travel possible? Our friends and fellow digital nomads, Joao and Sara, are passionate about environmentally-conscious travel. Originally from Portugal, they now spend most of the year in Southeast Asia and teach English online. We’re super impressed that they’ve even managed to grow some of their own food while nomading! We asked them…

Why It Can Be Better To Get Medical Treatment and Healthcare Abroad

This is a collaborative post with our friends and fellow nomads, Dorene and Troy of Travel Life Experiences. In this post, we share our experiences and tips about receiving medical treatment and healthcare abroad. You planned a trip for months: a visit to a new country. The first week, you had the time of your…

Top Spanish Language Learning Tools: Teach Yourself Spanish for Travel!

How would you like to teach yourself Spanish for travel? Let’s talk about Spanish language learning tools, apps, and the best free Spanish lessons online (and offline). Learning a language is an incredible asset for traveling the world. Being able to speak to host country nationals in their mother tongue can not only help you…

Why use Airbnb rentals – Plus our Airbnb photos around the world!

Here’s why an Airbnb rental is still our top choice for accommodations right now. Plus, we share our safety tips for using Airbnb during the Coronavirus pandemic. What is Airbnb? Whether you’re looking for budget accommodations, hoping to stay with a local in a foreign place, or want more than a typical hotel can offer –…

I’m not sure it’d be great for travel, but I absolutely love my Buffalo Jackson messenger bag for carrying my laptop on a daily basis. It’s a classic leather messenger that is very high quality and yet at what is a pretty reasonable price. I’ve had it going on three years and it ages perfectly as any leather bag should.

Sounds like a good bag – thanks for weighing in!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

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

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Frequent Travelers Swear By This Pricey-But-Worthwhile Luggage

Shopping Writer for HuffPost

If you’ve ever found yourself trudging along a busy airport terminal with a travel bag that’s doing nothing but holding you back, it may be time to invest in something that, while expensive, is worth the money.

I appreciate a good affordable product as much as the next person, but there are times when my money-savvy ways led me to spend more in the long run by buying something that costs less, but doesn’t last as long. This is most often the case with bags for travel, which can be incredibly pricey.

Over the past couple of years, we’ve been in touch with tons of frequent travelers, from flight attendants to travel influencers to our very own HuffPost staff, in order to find out what expensive pieces of luggage and bags actually justify their cost.

Their testimonies, along with the help of reviews from other travelers, helped us create the following selection of carry-on backpacks and suitcases, including with larger checkable luggage, that have paid for themselves in traveling performance.

HuffPost and its publishing partners may receive a commission from some purchases made via links on this page. Every item is independently curated by the HuffPost Shopping team. Prices and availability are subject to change.

Before You Go

The Travel Gifts Your Jetsetter Needs This Year, According To Frequent Flyers

Popular in the community, from our partner, huffpost shopping’s best finds, more in shopping.

The 24 Best Travel Tote Bags for Your Next Big Trip

Whether it's your only bag or a carry-on supplement, a travel tote will take your packing game to the next level.

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

T&C Tried and True

Medium metro tote deluxe.

Separate Compartment for Organization

Lo & sons catalina deluxe tote.

Luxurious Essential

Cuyana easy travel tote.

Folds Small for Easy Packing

Lululemon packable tote bag.

Classic Tote

Longchamp large le pliage tote.

Everyday to Travel Tote

Etronik travel duffel bag with usb charging port.

Minimalist and Functional

The renew transit weekender.

Bargain Bag

Bluboon travel tote bag.

Madewell The Shopper Tote

Heavy Lifter

Boat and tote.

Whatever your travel needs for the season ahead, odds are that a good tote can make your packing life more organized, and less stressful—honestly, what more could you hope for? With that in mind, we've scoured the internet for the more durable, functional travel totes for every type of traveler, from the serial overpacker to the organization fiend. Here, our favorite finds for all of your journeys.

Perpetually trying to find space in your carry-on for one last thing? Meet what one T&C editor calls, "the personal item of every overpacker's dream." Featuring five exterior pockets, plus six on the interior and an detachably pouch, it will keep all of your travel essentials organized while it's sturdy-yet-lightweight construction makes it easy to tuck in "just in case" items to your hearts desire without overwhelming your arms.

The cushy, reinforced straps are easy on the shoulders, but it also has a detachable crossbody strap and a built-in sleeve to slip over the handle of your luggage if you don't feel like toting. It also comes in four sizes (we're fond of the medium for it's ability to hold oodles of stuff while still slipping neatly beneath the seat in front of you on a plane) and a seasonally-refreshed roster of more than a dozen shades, making it as stylish as it is functional.

Lo & Sons Catalina Deluxe Tote

For the "a place for everything and everything in its place" traveler, this tote has you covered with a zippered bottom pocket that's perfect for separating out toiletries or dirty shoes from the rest of your haul (an interior panel also allows you to open the bottom compartment fully, if you're craving a deeper bag.)

Available in recycled poly or sturdy canvas, at 15" x 14" x 7", it qualifies as a personal item for most airlines and has a handy luggage sleeve to pair with your suitcase. For those looking for larger options, it comes in four additional sizes as well.

Cuyana bags are a favorite of T&C editors and royals alike ( Meghan Markle is a big fan ) for their timelessly stylish silhouettes, buttery soft leather, and effortless functionality. This, their latest launch, is made specifically with travel in mind.

Crafted with lightweight, durable pebbled leather (currently available in four colorways) it offers ample interior space (a 37L volume, to be precise) plus two large pockets, a phone slip, and a key clip, as well as snaps for Cuyana devotees who want to mix in their System Flap Bag or System Zipper Pouch .

If you're more of a "shop when you get there" traveler, this bag brings the souvenir space without taking up lots of room in your primary bag. Water-repellant and roomy (it holds 32L by volume) it features rugged shoulder straps, plus an extra strap that lets it slip over the handle of roller luggage, and can fold into its own exterior pouch when not in use to make a tidy, handheld bundle.

Some things are classic for a reason. Case in point: this timeless Longchamp tote; just ask T&C 's associate shopping editor, Sophie Dweck, who's been carrying hers for over a decade . Made from sleek, easy-to-clean nylon that comes in a cornucopia of colors, it features a simple, spacious interior and strong leather straps that ensure it can stand up to anything your travels throw at it, and look good doing it.

Looking for a tote that's as useful in your day-to-day as it is when you're far away? This multi-use tote has racked up thousands of five-star reviews on Amazon for its versatility. A separate, vented shoe compartment makes it as friendly to gym sessions as beach trips, while its multiple pockets keep essentials organized. It also includes a luggage strap and a USB charging port so you can plug in your tech without rummaging through your bag for your battery pack, and comes in two sizes and almost 30 shades so it will match your travel style.

One reviewer writes: "I must say, it exceeded my expectations in every way! This bag is the perfect blend of style and functionality, making it a must-have for any woman on the go."

Type-A packers, take note: this 100% recycled polyester is all about options. Its four colorways can be worn crossbody, carried in hand, or over the shoulder, and include a zippered exterior pocket, a luggage sleeve, two water bottle holders, and a padded laptop sleeve—all with Everlane's signature modern minimalist vibe.

Available in 20 colorways and textures, this canvas tote features a luggage sleeve that also doubles as a tech pouch so your gadgets will always be at the ready. The sturdy construction and bargain price tag have made it a hit with reviewers, who site its roomy 16.5" x 9" x 14" size and comfort.

One reviewer writes: "I am so happy with this purchase! Reasonable price, large main compartment, and a few zip compartments to organize smaller items. Bag fits perfectly under airline seat, even when stuffed FULL. It stayed in place when I had it on top of my roller bag, and I noticed the shape of it kept it from making everything tip forward (which happened with my previous bag)."

For a travel bag that you can use as a purse all trip, this simple Madewell leather tote brings a perfect mix of style and space (12.75" x 12.75" x 7.5".) It even comes with an interior strap that allows you to change the shape, and doubles as a keyring.

True L.L. Bean lovers know that the brand's classic Boat and Tote bag is hard to beat—after all, it's been one of their signature styles since 1944. Crafted from rugged cotton canvas, it's tested to hold up to 500 pounds, so no matter how much you manage to overpack, this bag is guaranteed to take it on. And with four sizes and two interior lengths to choose from, as well as a dozen colors, there's a perfect one for all your needs.

Caraa Studio Tote

Whether you prefer a classic tote style or a backpack, this Italian leather bag gives you the best of both worlds. Along with the usual amenities (a slew of pockets, adjustable straps) it also has a collapsible waterproof shoe pocket for those days your travel plans call for a quick change.

More: The 18 Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks for Easy, Breezy Packing

Béis The Convertible Weekend Bag

This tote brings two-for-one power with a removable bottom compartment that can be used as is, or as a separate packing cube. Easy to clean polyester and polyurethane make it a cinch to keep looking like new, with a built-in luggage sleeve and removable laptop sleeve give it plenty of function for that rush through TSA.

Tumi Voyageur Just in Case Packable Nylon Tote

Some people pack an extra suitcase when traveling abroad. We propose this packable Tumi tote instead. It folds out to an impressive 8" x 14" x 8 size when fully opened and weighs less than a pound, so you can shop to your heart's content while getting those passport stamps.

More: The 13 Best Luggage Brands for Every Type of Traveler

Carhartt Legacy Tote East/West

Built to work hard, this water-repelling polyester Carhartt bag is tough enough to handle all of your travel adventures. It includes two exterior pockets as well as an interior divider and pockets, so it's and functional on the inside as it is on the outside.

One reviewer writes: "Even better than expected! I used it as my personal item for a trip to Mexico…placed my purse, tablet, magazines, etc inside…lots of pockets! Hides dirt, wipes off easily, very well made."

Revive Nylon Large Tote

Available in five-shades, this nylon tote (made with fabric crafted from 27 recycled water bottles with recycled leather trim) has jumbo exterior slip pockets (plus three interior pockets and a keyring) and a built-in padded laptop sleeve to match its roomy interior with organization.

One reviewer writes: "Great color, roomy, lots of pockets to keep things organized and easy to locate. Perfect for work and travel. Very happy with it."

Dagne Dover Jemi Tote

Want a travel tote that makes a style statement? Bring your puffer coat style to your bag with this versatile, vegan tote made from recycled plastic water bottles. At less than a pound and half (it holds 16.2 L volume), it's super lightweight, and has two sets of comfy handles—one for hand-held use and one for shoulder use—plus a luggage sleeve, so it's great no matter your travel style.

Naghedi Jet Setter Small Tote

Fully lined, basket-woven neoprene brings beautiful texture to this travel tote, making it ideal for those situations when you have to go straight from the plane to an event. It also has a zip closure and zippered interior pocket to ensure that your stuff stays in place even on the wildest travel days.

Scout Travel Bag Large

You want all of the weight in your travel bag to be from your must-haves, not from the bag itself. This colorful version from Scout (it comes in half a dozen colors and patterns) is a featherlight 1 pound, yet can hold up to 65 pounds of your gear, and can fold flat when not in use. It also comes with a zipper pocket and reinforced bottom so everything you pack stays comfortable where you want it.

Barbour Medium Travel Explorer Leather Tote Bag

The biggest name in waxed cotton jackets brings their British heritage sensibility to travel with this luxe 100% leather tote. Measuring 17.72'' x 14.96'', it comes with sturdy top handles and an adjustable shoulder strap for comfortable carrying.

More: The 13 Best Luxury Luggage for Traveling in Style

WONHOX Large Travel Tote Bag

This waterproof travel tote features a luggage sleeve, three interior pockets, including a special compartment to separate wet and dry items (looking at you, still-damp swimsuit) and four external pockets, as well as a zip-open expansion on the bottom so your bag can be as big, or small, as you need.

One reviewer writes : "Schlepped this bag all over Europe and it holds a surprising amount of stuff! The little expander area on the bottom really helped me squeeze in a few extra souvenirs. The trolley sleeve is a MUST from now on. It hooks on to your roller suitcase so easily and is sturdy! I was throwing my baggage up on the train, in and out of taxis and through many airports easy peasy."

Lauren Hubbard is a freelance writer and Town & Country contributor who covers beauty, shopping, entertainment, travel, home decor, wine, and cocktails.

@media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-1jdielu:before{margin:0.625rem 0.625rem 0;width:3.5rem;-webkit-filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);height:1.5rem;content:'';display:inline-block;-webkit-transform:scale(-1, 1);-moz-transform:scale(-1, 1);-ms-transform:scale(-1, 1);transform:scale(-1, 1);background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-1jdielu:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/townandcountrymag/static/images/diamond-header-design-element.80fb60e.svg);}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-1jdielu:before{margin:0 0.625rem 0.25rem;}} Travel @media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-128xfoy:before{margin:0.625rem 0.625rem 0;width:3.5rem;-webkit-filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);height:1.5rem;content:'';display:inline-block;background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-128xfoy:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/townandcountrymag/static/images/diamond-header-design-element.80fb60e.svg);}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-128xfoy:before{margin:0 0.625rem 0.25rem;}}

The Best Carry-On Backpacks for Every Traveler

The Best Luxury Luggage for Traveling in Style

Where to Dine in Myrtle Beach, According to Locals

Best Room At… Rosewood Hong Kong

The Best Room at... Westin Palace Milan

An Omni Homestead Resort Itinerary for Everyone

Step Inside an Experimental Hydrogen Boat

Best Room At... Hotel Chelsea

Best Room at Principe di Savoia

The Best Golf Course in Ireland Is at Adare Manor

Best Room At... Hotel La Compañia

Follow BagBible

• *WP Mobile Edition (Blog Index)
• *WP Mobile Edition (Contact)
• Facts About Leather Bags

Types of Bags

• Bag Maintenance
• Bags That Flatter Your Figure
• Classic Bags of All Time
• Recognizing an Authentic Chanel
• Hermes Birkin
• Louis Vuitton
• Got Faked? Now What?
• Chanel Paris-Moscou 08/09
• Chanel Pre-Collection
• Jimmy Choo Pre Fall
• Rebecca Minkoff
• February 2011
• January 2011
• February 2010
• January 2010
• December 2009
• October 2009
• September 2009
• August 2009
• Bay Area Bags
• Become – Handbag Tips Center
• The Bag Snob
• The Purse Page
• Be in Style – Fashion and Beauty

Athletic bag: a soft, roomy bag used to carry sporting equipment and apparel to the gym.

Backpack: a bag that is supported by the shoulders with double handles and lies across the back. Backpacks are supported on either one or both shoulders.

Baguette Bag: A purse that is relatively long from side to side and small from top to bottom – basically a little like a baguette with a handle.

Bowling Bag: A bag originally made to hold a bowling ball, this has become a fashion item.

Bucket bag: roomy bag shaped like a bucket, usually has an open top and shoulder strap.

Clutch Bag: Small but long bag (rectangular), evening bag without a handle. You have to clutch it – hence the name.

Cosmetic case: bags of varying sizes and shapes with a zip closure lined to hold cosmetics.

Doctor's bag: A traditional doctor's bag is a duffel-shaped leather satchel used primarily to carry small medical necessities when making house calls. The classic doctor's bag is flat-bottomed with rounded sides, slightly elongated. Two large handles come together over the top for easy carrying. The mouth of the bag has a collapsible metal frame that springs open when handles are separated and tugged. The gaping mouth makes it easy to see into the bag and extract items.

Duffel Bag: A large bag usually used for travel or sports. The name comes from Duffel, a town in Belgium where the thick cloth used to make the bag originated. Duffel bags are often used by sailors, and are sometimes called sea bags in this capacity.

Envelope bag: a flat, square or rectangular bag with a triangle-shaped top flap that folds over like an envelope.

Feed bag: bag that is used to feed an animal (such as a horse); covers the muzzle and fastens at the top of the head.

Fold over clutch: a clutch with or without a handle that can be tucked or folded.

Hobo Bag: a large crescent-shaped shoulder bag or any large bag that hangs from your shoulder and has a main compartment closure (unlike the "tote" which is normally open top).

Messenger Bag: A bag with a long strap to be worn across the body that winds around the chest resting the bag on the lower back. Materials used in messenger bags are often more durable and water-resistant than traditional bags. Messenger bags are often used by bicycle messengers, though they are increasingly becoming an urban fashion icon.

Minaudiere: a small evening bag embezzled with pieces of metal, semi precious stones or beads or covered with fabric or leather.

Muff: a winter bag made of real or faux fur, wool or velvet that has zippered compartments and a slip opening for your hands.

Saddle Bag: a large bag (or pair of bags) hung over a saddle. Many designers use saddle bag as an inspiration for their designs. Therefore, their bags are called saddle bags, even though they are not actually saddle bag.

Satchel: A structured handbag with double handles, locking hardware and a wide, flat bottom. May be large or small.

Shoulder bag: any bag with a shoulder strap.

Sling Bag: A bag with a long strap (similar to a messenger bag), yet smaller.

Tote Bag: A medium to large bag with two straps. Sometimes sold as a reusable shopping bag, this bag can carry anything that is too large for a common handbag – also called a ‘Shopper’.

Weekend Bag: A bag of a size to carry clothing and personal articles for a weekend trip.

Wristlet - a clutch shaped bag that comes with an attached leather or bracelet-looking strap allowing you to hold your bag and dance freely.

Image from Bluefly , Balenciaga , Forzieri , Louis Vuitton , Neiman Marcus , Net-A-Porter , Revolve Clothing

Related pages: Facts About Leather Bags , Bag Maintenance

6 Responses to “Types of Bags”

Wow! A great list here of different types of handbags. I would also suggest adding bags that are known for their shape because of the designer for example the Birkin or the 2.55 chanel!

A bin bag – a bag you tend to put trash in

so beautiful

[…] to Bagbible.com, a Hobo bag is “a large crescent-shaped shoulder bag or any large bag that hangs from your […]

[…] shape and your hips and bottom are an area you’re trying to draw attention away from. Then a messenger bag worn crossed over your chest and nestling comfortably on your hip is going to draw attention to […]

[…] bags (for those of you with a burning desire to see what kinds of bags are out there, the site is here!) From there I noticed the messenger bag and started wondering if someone was looking for them […]

You must be logged in to post a comment.

• Search: -->
• Alexander McQueen
• Alexander Wang
• Andrew Marc
• Anya Hindmarch
• B. Makowsky
• Bottega Veneta
• Carlos Falchi
• Celebrity bags
• Christian Louboutin
• Cosmetic Bag
• Dolce & Gabbana
• Donna Karan
• Emilio Pucci
• Francesco Biasia
• Helena de Natalio
• Jack Rabbit
• Judith Lieber
• Juicy Couture
• Liebeskind Berlin
• Look Alikes
• Marc Jacobs
• Michael Kors
• Nancy Gonzales
• New Emerging Designers
• Non Leather
• Reed Krakoff
• Sale Alerts
• Salvatore Ferragamo
• Stella McCartney
• Steve Madden
• Top Handles
• Uncategorized
• Under $1000
• Under $2000
• Via Repubblica
• Video Reviews
• Spotting Fakes
• Bag Collection

Powered by WordPress © 2006 - 2008 STheme By Sivan

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

The 12 Best Travel Bags That Will Make Your Journey a Breeze | Tested & Reviewed

Guaranteed to make you enjoy packing.

In This Article

Jump to a Section

• Our top picks

Our Testing Process

What to keep in mind.

• Your Questions, Answered

Why Shop With Us

InStyle / Kristin Kempa

Allow me to start this article by saying I’m on a plane roughly eight to ten times a year. I absolutely adore travel, and even made it around the world backpacking by myself for a year. Needless to say, I know a thing or two about smart packing . When the world shut down and the option to travel was removed from our fingertips, it became all the more important to exercise our freedom to take a trip when it opened up again. Knowing this, more and more brands conveniently began crafting travel bags that accommodated the new wave of travelers — simplifying, organizing, and smoothing out suitcases and bags.

We tested said bags in our labs and in real life, doing so much as throwing suitcases onto the floor and seeing how they endured. As we boarded planes, we observed how quickly we could reach for our passports, and whether there was a safe space for our laptops to fit into. We took note of how smoothly wheels rolled over the French cobblestone streets or how heavy a duffel bag felt on our shoulders. Thus, we were able to compile this handy dandy list of 12 best travel bags and carry-on suitcases, based on our own personal experiences.

Best Overall

Dagne dover landon carryall bag.

• Capacity 5 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Portability 4 /5
• Value 3.5 /5
• Durability 3.8 /5

What We Love: It comes with ample amounts of sleeves, pockets, and even a shoe bag.

What We Don’t Love: Neoprene is prone to creasing.

We’re big fans of Dagne Dover’s neoprene collection, having tested their belt bags and backpacks already. We weren’t surprised, therefore, when this Carryall Bag impressed us just as much as their other products. With inside pockets (both slip and zip), we were able to place a laptop into the sleeve in addition to a water bottle and a passport into their dedicated slots. Still, there was plenty of room in the main compartment for all our clothes. Included in the bundle are two removable pouches — a shoe bag and a mesh zip pouch — as well.

Most notably, the top zip extends out an extra few inches, maximizing the space to stuff our cute weekend outfits. If we didn’t need the extra space, we could clip the sides down to keep everything looking compact. Dagne Dover also offers the bag in five sizes, ensuring there’s an option that’s just right for you. Lastly, there’s an outer slip intended to be used over a suitcase handle, so the bag could stay safe and flush against our carry-on. While neoprene is very soft and lightweight, it is prone to creasing, we noticed. Still, its durability makes up for it, and we know we’ll be using this year after year.

Dimensions: 20.5” L x 10” W x 10.5” H | Materials: Premium neoprene | Colors:  9

Best Budget

L.l. bean boat and tote, zip-top.

• Capacity 4 /5
• Portability 5 /5
• Ease of Use 3 /5

What We Love: You can add a personalized touch by getting it monogrammed.

What We Don’t Love: It doesn’t have any compartments for organization.

The L.L. Bean Boat and Tote bag is famous for a reason. After owning this bag for just six months, InStyle ’s Associate Fashion Commerce Editor Hayley Prokos came to learn just how sturdy the canvas tote is. Not only that, but it’s become her go-to for basically all occasions, be it a personal item on a plane, a carryall for the beach, or an overnight tote to hold a change of clothes, shoes, and toiletry bag. (She uses the large size.) “Since the canvas maintains its shape when open, it’s extremely easy to pack. The only drawback is that it doesn't have any built-in compartments, but that hasn’t really bothered me, as I tend to keep small things in removable pouches that I can shuffle around in the bag,” she says. The large is fairly deep, so users can likely fit their things into it sans-problem. The fact that it’s monogrammable is just the icing on the cake. Choose between four different sizes and even two different top handle lengths — Prokos owns both the long and the short, swapping between them based on her needs.

Dimensions: 10.5” L x 5” W x 9.5” H  | Materials: Polyester | Colors: 13

Best Splurge

Coach gotham duffle.

• Ease of Use 4 /5

What We Love: The high-end leather and stitchings feel substantial, ensuring the bag will last a lifetime.

What We Don’t Love: There aren’t a lot of compartments.

We want the items that we splurge on to be items we keep forever, like this Gotham Duffle bag from Coach. While visiting the Coach store we had the pleasure of handling this deliciously smooth leather duffle and were impressed with how spacious it was. It’s likely that Mary Poppins bought her infinity bag from the same maker, considering how much we could fit in it. Although it’s not boasting a lot of compartments, it’s ideal for rolling up all of our clothes and shoes into the open space. The glove-tanned leather feels sturdy and substantial, making us feel confident it would endure a ton of tossing, shoving, and rough TSA handling. The minimalist and unisex aesthetic also ensures it won’t go out of style, so while the initial payment might seem like a lot, it’s really a steal if you divide it by the number of years for which you’re about to use it.

Dimensions: 19.75” L x  9” W x 11.5” H | Materials: Leather | Colors:  2

Best Leather

Madewell overnight bag in leather.

What We Love: The leather has only gotten better after four years of use.

What We Don’t Love: There is no laptop sleeve.

While many people are familiar with (and in love with) Madewell’s tote bag , we found all the similar great qualities in their overnight bag, plus Alpha. This option is a lot larger than their tote, but still small enough to fit under the seat in front of us. We’ve had this bag for over four years now, and the exterior leather has only gotten better in our opinion. It has endured all our not-so-gentle trips, protecting what’s inside even as we threw it into the trunk of a car.

Although there are two slip pockets in the interior where we typically keep our passport and phone, it doesn’t have a laptop sleeve, unfortunately. The bag gets rounded out as we stuff it with clothes, so it’s not the most laptop-friendly. Still, the combination of this weekender with a carry-on suitcase has saved us tons of money by not needing to check in a bag, while probably bringing the same amount of stuff as we would with a large suitcase.

Dimensions: 22.75” L x 13.37” W x 18” H | Materials: Leather | Colors:  2

Béis East To West Tote

• Ease of Use 5 /5

What We Love: There is a compartment for absolutely everything.

What We Don’t Love: The top zipper doesn’t close all the way.

Shay Mitchell’s company dedicated to all things travel didn’t miss a thing when it came to designing the perfect travel tote — it’s compartment-galore in and around this bag. We found pouches for our water bottles, a sleeve for our laptop, a zippered slit for our on-flight toiletries, two slots for our passport and phone, and even two pen hooks (key for someone who loves to journal on the plane).

Inside the exterior zipped pocket, there is a key leash, so that we may never have to rummage through our million things at the door. In the past year that we’ve owned this bag, it quickly became a life-saver of a tote, especially as people who are never on time and can’t be sorting through a black hole when we’re being pushed through a line. And yes, it comes with a slit for a suitcase handle as well, so even though we could carry it by the top handle or the shoulder strap, we don’t have to. The only con is that the top doesn’t zip all the way, which means extra attention needs to be paid in high-theft areas.

Dimensions: 9.06” L x 7.13” W x 14.17” H | Materials: Recycled polyester | Colors:  2

Best Compartmentalized

Lipault lost in berlin 24h bag.

What We Love: The cushiony exterior keeps everything safe on the inside.

What We Don’t Love: It’s not big enough to carry a range of shoe options.

We’ve been using this bag not just on our travels, but to the gym as well, giving it a bigger bang for its buck. It’s got two generously sized and zipped pockets on the exterior, making items like passports, phones, and chapsticks easy to grab and safe from theft. Thanks to the cushiony and soft exterior, our valuables on the inside always remain safe. There are even more compartments on the inside that are either zipped or meshed. And of course, a laptop sleeve can be found for anyone looking to use it on a business trip. As a little extra bonus, we love how the bag folds flat when not in use — it’s easy to store it away without taking up too much closet space. Overall, it’s not as big as some of the other bags we tested. At most, we’d feel comfortable packing one extra pair of shoes, but not a whole lot more.

Dimensions: 17.3” L x 9.8” W x 11.4” H | Materials: Polyester | Colors:  6

Best Convertible

Caraa studio tote.

What We Love: You can convert the tote into a backpack.

What We Don’t Love: The shoe compartment can only fit smaller or flat shoes.

At first glance, this black leather tote looks like any standard bag. But upon further inspection, we fell deeper and deeper in love with all the smart benefits it offers. There are removable straps that turn the tote into a backpack, so we could move around with our hands free. Because they are removable, they don’t dangle around and get in the way when we simply want to use it as a tote either.

We found a side zip that we used as a shoe compartment, although it only fits flat sandals or smaller shoes (i.e. no high heels). The interior is extremely spacious, too, which allowed us to roll multiple shirts and sweaters in. And so nothing goes missing, there is a laptop sleeve, a water bottle cinched pocket, and two larger slip pockets for passports, wallets, and phones. All in all, we could organize, bring a ton of items, and still look chic — a true win-win situation.

Dimensions: 10” L x 18” H | Materials: Leather | Colors:  1

Best Carry-on

Muji adjustable handle hard shell suitcase.

Muji  

What We Love: The wheels run very smoothly and can be locked into place when not in use.

What We Don’t Love: It doesn’t come with any additional pouches or perks.

We didn’t know how smooth wheels could roll until pushing this carry-on suitcase through rough pebbled European streets. No matter how heavy the case was packed, it would still roll as though it only carried a feather. Muji has an extensive travel collection which we all adore, but this simple yet elegant suitcase has to take the cake. We could easily fit enough items for a week-long getaway. The two interior compartments are divided by a zippered mesh flap, where we keep miscellaneous items like notebooks. When the suitcase is closed, we could clip the zipper handles into its designated clasp on the side and lock it with a key, giving it an extra layer of anti-theft protection. And the best part? We could lock the wheels from rolling, allowing us to leave it standing on a moving train without it skedaddling down the aisle. While many modern suitcases come with additional pouches or even charging pods, this suitcase does not.

Dimensions: 14.6” L x 9.4” W x 21.3” H | Materials: Recycled polycarbonate, recycled polyester, polyester | Colors:  5

Best for Organizing

Paravel aviator carry-on.

What We Love: It comes with a compression board that helps to save space.

What We Don’t Love: It’s slightly heavier than your average carry-on suitcase.

Anyone looking to book a luxurious trip should have an equally luxurious suitcase to match. Owning the Paravel Aviator Carry-On felt like a beautiful travel experience in itself. Dare we say we actually enjoyed packing for once? That’s because it comes with multiple interior pockets, a separate laundry bag, and an interior compression board, which helps to press down clothing and allow for more space. And packing cubes made separating shoes from clothes a breeze. All of the details are beautifully designed, with vegan leather finishes and buttery smooth zippers — which by the way, could be locked and sealed for anti-theft. Much like the Muji option, the wheels on this suitcase glided so smoothly it was as though it were floating.

Yes, it’s a little pricier than other options, but it does come with a 10-year warranty that allows you to get manufacturing defects fixed, free of cost. We did notice that at 8.2 pounds the suitcase is a little heavier than some of the others we tested. Considering it’s a carry-on, it plays less of a role at TSA. But if you’re trying to slim down your luggage weight as much as possible perhaps this is not the one for you.

Dimensions: 13.7” L x 9” W x 21.7” H | Materials: Recycled polycarbonate, recycled aluminum handles, recycled zippers, vegan leather | Colors:  5

Best Weekender

Calpak hue laptop duffel.

• Capacity 4.5 /5
• Durability 5 /5

What We Love: A padded laptop sleeve saves us from needing to bring an extra bag for our laptop.

What We Don’t Love: We wish there were a few more color options.

Duffel bags are a favorite go-to for little weekend getaways, and this option from Calpak offered far more than just a big empty space for clothes. Most notably, a padded laptop sleeve protected our laptop during transportation. A discreet phone slit made answering phone calls easy, and various pockets in and around the bag offered more ways to organize our valuables. A little slot fit for suitcase handles allowed us to keep everything together and our hands free. When we’re not traveling, the bag doubles as a great gym bag, giving us more chances to use it in everyday life. We would have loved a few more color options, like navy and white, but the four currently available will suit most tastes.

Dimensions: 18” L x 9.5” W x 10” H | Materials: Polyester, polyurethane | Colors:  4

Best for Business

Away the everywhere bag.

• Organization 5 /5
• Portability 3.5 /5

What We Love: Its sleek appeal makes it easy to go straight from the airport to a meeting.

What We Don’t Love: We wish it were a tiny bit bigger to fit an extra outfit.

Going somewhere for business? This bag from Away looks like a large briefcase and functions partly as one, too. With a separate compartment for laptops, pouches for notebooks and pens, a zippered section for wallets and passports, and a mesh pocket for a water bottle, the Everywhere bag has been a sleek way to organize all our business essentials. The center compartment is large enough to pack enough clothes for a two-day trip, we found, but not more. With how sleek and minimalist the bag looks, we could easily carry it from the plane to the meeting without stopping by a hotel. After accidentally spilling some water onto the bag while being served by a flight attendant, we were happy to find the exterior was completely water-resistant.

Dimensions: 16.3” L x 7.3” W x 10.2” H | Materials: Nylon, leather | Colors:  5

Best Duffel

L.l. bean adventure rolling duffle.

L.L. Bean 

• Design 3.5 /5
• Portability 3 /5
• Durability 4 /5

What We Love: You could roll the bag like a standard suitcase.

What We Don’t Love: The zip doesn’t open up very wide.

L.L. Bean has been a trusted destination for all things adventure, so it only made sense to test one of their duffel bags. While the main zip didn’t open all too wide, the interior it opens up to is deceptively large. It felt as though we could keep placing items in it and it would magically expand internally. On top of being able to hold it using the top handles, it could also be rolled like a regular suitcase. It surely made whizzing from point A to B much lighter. Thankfully, the wheels were incredibly smooth. And because the material is water-resistant, we didn’t break a sweat when rolling over any surprise puddles.

Dimensions: 12” L x 9” W x 23” H | Materials: Nylon, polyurethane | Colors:  7

First, we tapped into our rich pool of editors, writers, and travelers to see which travel bags were being bought and used organically. We rounded up our personal favorites and dropped a few of those selections here. Next, we called in multiple suitcases and bags into our testing lab and put them through a series of tests, including stuffing them to the brim to see how much they hold and weigh, checking how easy it is to utilize the compartments, observing how smoothly everything zipped, and feeling how well they rolled on the floor. We even threw the suitcases on the floor to see if anything would break, snap, or scratch. Those who passed all of our tests were then recommended in this article.

Did you know there isn’t one universal carry-on size requirement that all airlines adhere to? It’s actually up to individual airlines to determine carry-on and checked luggage size requirements, as opposed to TSA. This means that different restrictions may apply from flight to flight (though a commonly accepted maximum carry-on size is 22 x 14 x 9 inches). If you don’t mind checking a bag, then no need to worry, but if you, like us, dread the baggage claim carousel, be mindful of dimensions when selecting your next bag (the Paravel Aviator Carry-On should do just the trick, no matter your travel plans). For shoulder bags like the Madewell The Essential Overnight Bag in Leather , they should be compact enough to fit under the seat in front of you.

Travel bags come equipped with many features, like dirty laundry dividers, specific pockets for tech devices, weight indicators, and more. “I do believe that form follows function,” says Nteta. “When it comes to functionality, I always look for my carry-on to be expandable and have organizational features so that I can separate things out properly and easily access must-haves like my laptop and wallet.” Options like the Paravel Aviator Carry-On features a compression board and a laundry pouch, while the Dagne Dover Landon Neoprene Carryall Bag comes with two additional pouches for delicates. The L.L. Bean Boat and Tote Ziptop may not come with any compartments, but it does give you various size options to choose from including different handle lengths. Add on the fact that you can add a monogram, its personalization capabilities make it stand out from the rest.

When shopping for luggage, really try to imagine yourself carrying this bag throughout various lifestyle scenarios. Can you schlepp the thing through an airport, onto a train, then onto a subway, and then up the four flights of stairs to your Airbnb? If it’s lightweight like the Muji Adjustable Handle Hard Shell Suitcase , you should be just fine! Meanwhile, a non-wheeled duffel like the Calpak Hue Laptop Duffel might be better suited for car travel like road trips or packing for that pet-sitting gig you have several towns over.

Your Questions, Answered 

What type of bag is good for international travel .

If you’re making the trek outside of the country, you’re likely staying for more than a weekend, requiring a larger checked bag. For international travel, we recommend looking for a suitcase with TSA-approved locking capabilities (such as the Muji Adjustable Handle Hard Shell Suitcase and the Paravel Aviator Carry-On ), weight indicators (weight restrictions for checked luggage can vary from airline to airline — research ahead of time), and smooth 360 wheels (international airports require a lot of walking). A bag that expands isn’t a bad idea either, just in case you come home with souvenirs. We’ve seen plenty of options where the tote or duffel bag actually attaches itself onto a suitcase, like the Beis The East to West Tote or the Away the Everywhere Bag . The feature makes them especially great for when you're rushing between connections and need to move quickly.

How do you pack a carry-on-sized bag for a multi-night trip?

Most carry-on-sized bags can accommodate three to four days' worth of clothes… if you know how to stretch your base layers, shoes, and accessories. “I do my best to keep to one suitcase by packing versatile clothing pieces that I can pair and style differently,” explains Nteta. Though she notes it does take a bit of planning, it creates a more stress-free travel experience overall. “For example, I select a pair of trousers and work out all the different tops and looks I can create with that one pair of trousers,” she says. “The key is to consider how you can layer foundational items and then elevate with accessories.”

How do you safely transport makeup and other liquid toiletries?

“When I travel, I don't compromise on my skincare routine, so I need a lot of pockets to organize things like cotton pads, Q-Tips, tweezers, and more,” says world-traveling content creator Kristina Rodulfo. (We’ve tested a bunch of toiletry bags and found the seven best (and safest) options here .) “When you have liquid makeup like foundation, you want to ensure none of your clothes or other valuables get messy.” As an additional suggestion, she recommends the Ries Essential Travel Bottles for their airless pump and ability to securely stash 3.4 ounces of all your favorite products. “I have my Ries bottles filled and always ready to go for my next trip,” she says.

Bianca Kratky is a commerce writer with three years of experience covering fashion and beauty. She’s an avid traveler and has explored the world solo for a year. Linne Halpern is a freelance fashion, beauty, and lifestyle writer. For this story, she interviewed travel expert and influencer Thithi Nteta and world-traveling beauty expert-turned-content creator Kristina Rodulfo . Their invaluable insights (plus, some personal travel experience and tons of research) inform our favorite picks.

Related Articles

The Ultimate Guide to Luggage Sizes: What Size Should You Get?

We use affiliate links, and receive a small commission if you make purchases through them. Find out more here .

Unlock the Ultimate Guide to Airline Luggage Allowances

Don’t get caught off guard by unexpected baggage fees! With this comprehensive eBook, you’ll have all the information you need at your fingertips.

You have successfully joined our subscriber list.

Did you know that choosing a suitcase (or multiple cases, for that matter) in the right size can save you some money in luggage fees and help you become a more organized traveler?

On one end, unused space in your luggage will result in wrinkled clothes and a messy suitcase. Not to mention the extra weight and possible luggage fees. And on the other – having too little space will limit your packing capacity. That’s why nailing the correct luggage size is very, very important.

In this guide, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about all the different luggage sizes, restrictions, and more, so you can understand what size luggage is better for you. Make sure to check out our FAQ section at the bottom if you still have any questions!

Luggage Size Chart

But before we begin this article, down below you can check out our infographic and table with the most common luggage sizes, which will offer an easier way to grasp the differences between them.

Measuring Luggage

Basically, each airline has different size and weight restrictions for hand and checked luggage. Usually, premium airlines will allow slightly larger bags, and cheaper ones will allow smaller ones with tighter weight limits. Your job as the passenger is to find out the restrictions yourself because they change all the time, and it would be impossible for us to list and update each airline individually.

There are two types of size restrictions that you need to know. The first one is dimensions – height (top to bottom), width (side to side), and depth (front to back). It will usually be applied for personal items and carry-ons and could be stated as follows: 55 x 35 x 25 cm (22 x 14 x 9 inches). Airlines will usually offer measuring boxes inside airports, where you can put in your bags to check if they fit.

The second measurement is linear inches. Linear inches just means the total sum of height, width, and depth, and it’s mainly used for checked luggage, which needs to be under 62 linear inches. So to get linear inches, measure the height, width and depth individually and add them all up.

To measure the dimensions of your suitcase, you can place it next to a wall and measure the height, width, and depth by placing a measuring tape next to the wall. To get a more exact measurement, you can place a book or something flat on the other end of the measuring tape. Make sure to include the wheels, handles, and anything else that’s sticking out! Another thing to keep in mind is that fabric suitcases might become a bit larger once they’re packed to the brim, so before measuring, pack your suitcase full and measure in the widest end.

Hand Luggage

Hand luggage means all the bags that you’re allowed to take with you on the plane without checking them in. Usually, it’s a carry-on, a personal item, and any other items that aren’t counted towards the allowance, such as duty-free items .

Hand luggage has to be stored under each passenger’s front seat or in the overhead compartments, which are located above each seat. You won’t be able to access it during take-off and landing because they have to be tucked away securely in case of an emergency.

When you arrive at the airport, you won’t need to go to the check-in desks if you have just hand luggage, and you’ve already printed your tickets back home. You’ll be able to go straight to security , where TSA (Transport Security Agency) will screen your hand luggage for any prohibited items. After that, you’re free to do duty-free shopping or wait at the designated gate until boarding starts.

Carry-on Luggage vs Personal Items

The main difference between carry-on luggage and personal items (other called “underseat luggage”) is that carry-ons need to be stored in the slightly-larger overhead compartments and personal items under each passenger’s front seat. Usually, most people choose smaller rolling suitcases as their carry-ons and backpacks, duffels, or tote bags as their personal items. That said, you can use any type of bag as a carry-on or a personal item, whether it’s a briefcase, rolling suitcase, duffel bag , backpack, tote, or even a regular shopping bag.

You won’t really be able to access stuff from your carry-on during the first and last 15-30 minutes of the flight, as well as any turbulence, so pack your most necessary items in your personal item, such as your laptop , headphones, e-reader , any medicine, e.t.c.

Personal Item Size and Weight Requirements

Most airlines won’t specifically mention an exact size requirement for personal items, and instead, they’ll just say that it has to fit under the front seat. On average though, it should be 6-9 inches in width, 10-14 inches in height, and 17-18.5 inches in length . They avoid stating the exact measurements because each airline has different types of aircraft in their fleet and each aircraft has a different amount of space under each seat. To get the exact personal item size requirements, you should probably ask the airline directly, or check our list where we compiled personal item restrictions for most popular airlines .

Some airlines also have individual weight restrictions for personal items. But most of them just have some kind of weight limit for the total weight of your personal item and carry-on.

Tip: Looking to purchase a personal item? Check out the Matein Travel laptop backpack , which I’ve used as my personal item on multiple flights without any issues. It always fits under the front seat and it’s surprisingly spacious.

Carry-on Size and Weight Requirements

On average, carry-ons usually have to be 8-10 inches in width, 13-15  inches in height, and 19-23 inches in length. Each airline has different carry-on size requirements, however, the most popular one is 22 x 14 x 9 inches . The restrictions are so different between airlines because the overhead compartments tend to differ in capacity across different aircraft.

In terms of weight, each airline has different weight requirements for carry-on luggage. Most airlines in America don’t have any weight requirements for hand luggage but some do, especially budget airlines. If the airline has a carry-on weight limit, it’s usually between 15-35 lbs (7-16 kg) . Some airlines will also have a specific weight limit for the total weight of carry-ons and personal items.

Tip: Looking for a new carry-on? I’ve used the Travelpro Maxlite 5 19-inch fabric carry-on for a while now and I love it. It’s spacious, lightweight, and very durable. Even though it’s slightly over the limit in width, I’ve never had any issues with that on international flights.

Domestic Carry-Ons vs International Carry-Ons

When you’ll be shopping for a new carry-on, you’ll notice that some of them will be marked as “international carry-on” and some as “domestic carry-on.” That’s because carry-on size restrictions are usually stricter for international flights and looser for domestic ones. If you’re flying domestically, you might get away with a 23-inch (longest side) carry-on, but on an international flight, you’ll probably be limited to 19-21 inches.

So essentially, domestic carry-ons will be slightly larger than international ones. If the carry-on is too large , you will be asked to check it in, and you’ll have to pay additional fees. That’s why it’s important to buy a smaller carry-on if you’re planning on flying internationally. Usually, international carry-ons will have to be under 22 x 14 x 9 inches .

Hand Luggage Fees

Almost all airlines will allow bringing one personal item completely for free. When it comes to carry-ons though, most airlines allow bringing one for free, but budget airlines might charge a fixed fee depending on your class, which could be anywhere from 10$ to 50$. For instance, Spirit airlines will charge 31-50$ for carry-on luggage and Ryanair will charge about 6-20 EUR.

Keep in mind that most of these items are usually allowed for free in addition to other hand baggage:

• Assistive devices for the disabled
• Other wearable clothes
• Walking canes
• Food in disposable containers meant to consume on the airplane
• Child restraint seats
• Duty-free items
• Reading materials
• Cameras ( some airlines consider cameras as personal items, while others don’t. )
• Pet carriers ( Some airlines consider pet carriers as personal items, while others don’t. )

Read Next : 12 Best Underseat Bags Without Wheels in 2022

Hand Luggage Advantages and Disadvantages

Using only hand luggage and avoiding checked luggage altogether is a technique used by many, me included because it offers many benefits:

• No need to wait in line at the check-in counter
• Most of the time, completely for free
• Less likely to be stolen or lost because it’s on you at all times
• Easier to carry around, especially if you use a backpack as a personal item together with a carry-on suitcase
• The best place for keeping valuables and fragile items
• You can access all of your items during the flight
• Less likely to break because it isn’t exposed to baggage handling

However, there are some drawbacks to using only hand luggage, such as:

• Less packing space
• Harder to manage for families because they usually need to bring more items
• It needs to be lugged around the airport after security instead of being handed over at the check-in desks
• Usually, has much stricter weight limits

Tips for Buying Hand Luggage

• If you’re flying on short flights, consider using only an underseat rolling suitcase or backpack. People who fly for business often only need to fly out domestically for a quick meeting, so a lot of them travel with only a personal item. You can easily fit a spare shirt in there as well as some toiletries and a laptop, which is really all you need.
• For up to two-week vacations, a carry-on and a personal item offer more than enough space. Personally, I’m a light packer, and I can travel for up to three weeks or even a month using only a carry-on and a personal item. For most people, this offers enough space.
• Consider getting a backpack with a back strap as your choice of personal item. That way, you can secure it around the retractable handle on top of your carry-on, which makes it incredibly easy to lug around. Especially in crowded areas, such as public transport and airports.
• If you’ll be flying internationally, get a carry-on under 22 x 14 x 9 inches with wheels and handles included. On domestic flights, you’ll probably be able to use something larger, but if you want to avoid paying extra fees down the line, make sure your carry-on is under this limit.
• Make sure to get lightweight hand luggage. The weight restrictions are pretty strict as it is already, so make sure to get a lightweight carry-on and personal item. Especially the carry-on, because you’ll have to stow it in the overhead compartments. So instead of going with a hardside carry-on, get a fabric one instead, which will most likely be lighter.

Read Next: Airport Travel Terminology 101 – The Ultimate Guide

Checked Luggage

Checked luggage is all baggage that’s too large or too heavy to be carried on the flight, and has to be checked in instead. This means that you’ll need to hand it over at the check-in counters at the airport. The baggage will then be transferred over to baggage handling and it will be loaded in the cargo hold of the airplane . When you land, you’ll have to pick up your checked luggage from the luggage conveyor belts in the baggage reclaim area.

You can use other kinds of baggage as well for checked luggage, not just suitcases. You can also use large backpacks, duffel bags, totes, musical instruments in their cases, large trunks, and other oversized items. A lot of times, you’ll have to check in specialty items, such as large musical instruments and all kinds of sporting equipment, such as bicycles, snowboards, golf clubs, e.t.c.

Read Next: What to Put in Carry-on and What in Checked Luggage (Guide)

Checked Luggage Size and Weight Restrictions

Most commonly, checked luggage will have a size restriction of 62 linear inches (height + width + length) and a weight limit of 50 or 70 lbs. These are the IATA guidelines that are enforced in the EU and US which are there to keep the baggage handlers from handling too heavy bags. Oversized and overweight baggage will be accepted, but it will be labeled as oversized/overweight and you’ll have to pay a fee for that unless it’s sporting equipment. For instance, American Airlines will accept oversized bags up to 126 linear inches (320 cm) and overweight bags up to 100 lbs (45 kg.)

Small vs Medium vs Large Checked Luggage

Checked luggage comes in different sizes, and usually, the longest dimension is 23-32 inches long. Depending on the longest side, checked luggage is usually divided into three sizes, which are small, medium, and large. Small checked suitcases usually are 23-24 inches on the longest size, medium ones 25-27 inches, and large ones in 28-32 inches. Quite often, suitcases above 30 inches will actually be oversized, because they’re over 62 linear inches with wheels and handles included.

For most people, a medium checked suitcase will be the best option, because it will be just within the checked luggage size limits and offer a large amount of space for all of their items.

Read Next: 8 Best 62-Inch Checked Suitcases in 2022

Checked Luggage Fees

On most international flights, airlines will allow you to bring one or two checked bags completely for free. On domestic flights, usually, they’ll offer either one free checked bag or none at all. This depends a lot on the airline though. Additional bags will cost on a per-bag basis, starting with cheaper rates and continuing with more expensive ones. For instance, for American Airlines on domestic flights, the first checked bag will cost 30$, the second 40$, and the third one 100$ .

If you aren’t flying alone and you’re carrying a lot of checked bags, it’s usually a better idea to split them evenly among all the passengers to save some money on the checked baggage fees. It also isn’t advisable to bring more than two checked bags because the fees start to get pretty costly after that.

The fees for overweight and oversized luggage can get very expensive, upwards of 100-200$ for each bag, so before you arrive at the airport, make sure that each bag is under the weight limit.

Checked Luggage Advantages and Disadvantages

Although there are a lot of disadvantages for flying with checked luggage, there are some advantages as well, such as:

• Checked bags offer much more space
• Better for families who carry a lot of items
• Checked bags don’t need to be carried around the airport after checking them in
• No need to worry about size and weight, as the restrictions are pretty hard to reach
• You should be able to get away with a slightly oversized checked bag because they’re rarely measured

However, there’s a reason why I don’t travel with checked luggage. In my opinion, it has more disadvantages, such as:

• With a personal item, carry-on, and a checked suitcase, it’s much more difficult to use public transport
• Checked luggage is mostly a paid service, especially with budget airlines
• There’s just too much space if you’re a light packer
• Checked bags can get damaged from baggage handling
• Items get lost or stolen much more frequently when packed in checked luggage
• You won’t be able to access the contents of checked luggage during the whole flight
• In case checked baggage gets lost, you’ll be left without a lot of items and your trip might be ruined
• You’ll have to wait in the check-in line at the airport

Tips for Buying Checked Luggage

• Avoid plastic checked suitcases. Hardside ABS, Polycarbonate, or Polypropylene suitcases can crack pretty easily. When they’re thrown in the baggage area under a pile of other suitcases, this can happen very easily. That’s why you should choose an aluminum checked suitcase or a fabric one, which will be much less likely to break.
• Before buying a checked suitcase, double-check that it’s below 62 linear inches.  Oversized checked luggage fees can get pretty expensive, usually between 100-200$. To avoid this hefty fee make sure that your suitcase is below 62 linear inches (height + width + depth) with handles and wheels included. A very large amount of large checked suitcases, in fact, about 50-80% of them are oversized, so pay close attention to the dimensions.
• A medium checked suitcase (25-27 inches) is more than enough for most people. Usually, medium checked suitcases are 58-61 linear inches in size, which is just below the 62 linear inch size limit, so when you’re looking for a checked suitcase, get one in this size.
• Get a bright or patterned checked suitcase. Checked luggage gets lost much more frequently. So when you’re shopping for a new case, make sure to get one that’s colorful and easy to recognize . It will be much easier to spot on the baggage carousel and if it gets lost, the chances of finding it will be much better because you’ll be able to describe it better. If you already own a dark checked suitcase, get a colorful patterned luggage cover .
• Avoid checked luggage with spinner wheels. Rolling, inline (2 wheels) suitcases are better options for checked suitcases because they’re much less likely to break while the bag is checked in. Spinner wheels are much more likely to fall off because they’re extended out from the main shape of the suitcase. It’s actually one of the most common things that break on checked bags.
• Consider getting a pelican trunk instead of a typical checked suitcase. They’re basically indestructible and they’re one of the most popular choices for climbers, camera crews, and other people who need to bring a lot of expensive checked gear.

What Size Luggage Should You Get?

There are all kinds of different factors that determine what kind of suitcase you should get. Before buying any luggage, you should understand how often and where you’ll be traveling, how many people you’ll be flying with, what are your packing traditions, and so on.

Are You an Over-Packer?

There’s nothing wrong with being an over-packer, but it will affect what kind of luggage you should choose and how much you’ll be paying in fees. Most over-packers like to travel with a checked suitcase and a personal item, such as a small backpack, skipping the carry-on entirely. You’ll be able to pack your valuables and essentials in the personal item and be left with a very large amount of space in your checked suitcase, where you can pack all of your clothing and anything else you’d need. A medium checked suitcase will usually offer about 90-100 l of space while a carry-on only 35-50 l, so the difference is pretty significant.

How Long You’ll Be Traveling?

The length of your trips/vacations also determines what kind of luggage you should get. If you’ll be traveling for months, unless you’re an extreme minimalist, you’ll need to bring some kind of checked luggage. But for two to three-week trips, it’s perfectly fine to bring only a carry-on and a personal item, unless you’re an over-packer or you need to bring other kinds of gear for your job, planned activities, e.t.c.

Where You’re Flying to and What Are Your Planned Activities?

Think about what you’ll be doing and what gear you’ll need. Do you need scuba diving or skiing gear? Are you into photography and need to bring a large tripod? Are you flying to a cold-weather country and you need to bring a lot of extra warm clothing? The kind of travel that you’ll be doing, determines what size luggage you should get.

Think about valuable and fragile gear specifically. Try to keep the most valuable items in your hand luggage. If that isn’t possible, remember to ensure your gear and invest in a durable, large enough, checked suitcase or trunk. A good option for that is the pelican trunk , which is the industry standard for professionals.

Tip: It’s Better to Buy a Smaller Suitcase, Instead of a Larger One

Many people will probably disagree but I personally think that it’s always a smarter choice to buy a smaller suitcase instead of a larger one. This will make you become a lighter packer, which could end up saving you some money in the long run on checked baggage fees.

A lot of times, people are bringing gear that they don’t really need and end up with heavier, oversized suitcases. Remember that you’ll also have to carry your luggage around the town and to the airport. You’re on a vacation to get new experiences, not buy a lot of unneeded stuff, and be exhausted from carrying an oversized suitcase. Of course, if you’re traveling for work, that may not be true, but for general leisure travel, it’s a better idea to get a slightly smaller suitcase than you think you’d need.

What Size Luggage I Use Personally

I usually travel one or two weeks at a time, so a personal item (backpack) and an international carry-on are more than enough to fit in everything that I need. I rarely use checked luggage because I’m a minimalistic packer.

My favorite has become the B06XZTZ7GB ?tag=cleverjourney-general-th-20&linkCode=ogi&th=1&psc=1′ title=’Matein laptop backpack’ target=’_blank’ rel=’nofollow noopener sponsored’ data-aawp-product-id=’ B06XZTZ7GB ‘ data-aawp-product-title=’Matein laptop backpack’>Matein laptop backpack for a personal item, which fits perfectly under the front seat and has many neat compartments for everything that I need. It’s 18 x 12 x 7.8 inches large, but I never pack it full, so it always fits under the front seat.

And for the carry-on, I use the B07BM9DFX9 ?tag=cleverjourney-general-th-20&linkCode=ogi&th=1&psc=1′ title=’Travelpro Maxlite 5 International 19-inch carry-on’ target=’_blank’ rel=’nofollow noopener sponsored’ data-aawp-product-id=’ B07BM9DFX9 ‘ data-aawp-product-title=’Travelpro Maxlite 5 International 19-inch carry-on’>Travelpro Maxlite 5 International 19-inch carry-on , which is pretty light and small enough for domestic luggage restrictions. It’s 21.75 x 15.75 x 7.75 inches large with wheels and handles included, so sometimes it’s a little bit above international limits, but I’ve never had any issues with it. I’ve tried squeezing it inside the measurement boxes myself, and I managed to fit it in with a tight squeeze.

My laptop backpack has a rear strap that wraps around the carry-on’s retractable handle so my backpack can be secured on top of it. It’s handy because my carry-on has spinner wheels, and it’s super easy to move around. In tight spaces, for instance, in the subway, it’s much easier to store the backpack on top of the carry-on.

If you’re a light packer like me, I’d suggest going with a backpack and a carry-on. It’ll be enough for 1-2 week trips, but if you wash some clothes midway and don’t buy too many souvenirs, you can stretch that to three weeks or even a month. If you’re traveling longer than that or you’re an over-packer, you should get a 25-27-inch medium checked suitcase instead of the carry-on.

Also check out: Airplane seat upgrades

Frequently Asked Questions About Luggage Sizes

What’s the largest luggage size for checked-in luggage ( 62-inch luggage ).

In order to comply with the 62-linear-inch checked luggage size requirement, you shouldn’t get a suitcase larger than 29-30 inches (longest side.) Almost all 31 and 32-inch suitcases will be oversized. Even a lot of 28-30-inch suitcases are oversized, so you have to double-check the product description and find out how large they really are. Count the total sum of the height, width, and depth, with wheels and handles included to get the true linear-inch measurement. The largest suitcases within the 62-linear-inch restriction are about 100-120l in volume.

To maximize the amount of space that you can have inside, choose a fabric suitcase, which will open from the top, instead of the middle, as you see on most hardside cases. This means you’ll have a larger main compartment. Also, make sure to get it with inline rolling wheels, instead of spinner ones, which results in a lot of unused space.

Tip: If you want to maximize the amount of space you get from a 62-linear-inch checked suitcase, get the Pelican 1615 travel case , which is exactly 62 linear inches in size and is virtually indestructible.

What’s the largest size for hand luggage?

When we talk about hand luggage, there are different restrictions for personal items and carry-ons. There are also different restrictions for each airline. In general, personal items should be below 17 x 10 x 7 inches in dimensions and carry-ons under 22 x 14 x 9 inches.

The largest size restriction for personal items that we found was on Southwest airlines, where personal items need to be under 18.5 x 13.5 x 8.5 inches. The largest size restriction for carry-ons was on Alaska Air, which was 24 x 17 x 10 inches. Generally, more expensive airlines will have looser restrictions for hand luggage.

What are the 3 luggage sizes?

If we’re talking about dimensions, the three luggage sizes are height (from top to bottom), width (from side to side), and depth (from front to back).

If, however, we’re talking in terms of luggage types, what people most likely mean with the 3 luggage sizes is personal items, carry-ons, and checked luggage, which have three different size and weight restrictions.

What’s the best luggage size for 20 and 23 kg?

The most common weight restriction for checked luggage on budget airlines is 20 or 23 kg (44 or 50 lbs). The best luggage size for this weight restriction is between 25-29 inches (longest size) . That’s because 20 or 23 kg checked luggage has to be under 62 linear inches (157 cm). You can calculate the linear inches by adding up height, width, and depth. Most suitcases above 29 inches will be over this limit, which means you’ll have to pay oversized baggage fees. You should always include the wheels and handles in these measurements.

Can I use backpacks and duffel bags as hand/checked luggage?

Yes, you can use backpacks and duffel bags as checked luggage. Theoretically, you can use any type of bag as checked luggage, as long as it’s durable enough to withstand baggage handling. You could even use a cardboard box , although it may not be a wise idea.

Personally, I’ve only traveled with a large backpack as my checked luggage. That’s because I do a lot of hiking and my hiking backpack is much larger than a carry-on. It’s pretty common for people to travel only with a large backpack (not only hike) and keep their essentials in a plastic bag or a tote bag during the flight. This gives you a lot of freedom because everything you need is packed inside one large backpack.

Do I need to include wheels and handles when measuring luggage?

You always need to include wheels, handles, and other elements that are sticking out when measuring luggage. A lot of people don’t know this and they end up purchasing oversized luggage, only to regret it later. You also need to take into account that if you’re buying an expendable suitcase, it will become a few inches wider when expanded.

What size luggage should I use for a week-long trip?

For a week-long trip, everyone should be able to fit everything they’d need in a carry-on and a personal item. Some people struggle with over-packing and end up using checked luggage for week-long trips, which can be avoided with smarter packing choices. When packing for your trip, always lay everything out and re-evaluate each individual item individually. Ask yourself if you’ll be using these items on your trip. And if the answer is “Maybe” you should leave that specific item at home. Personally, I can fit everything I’d need for 2-4 weeks in a single carry-on and a personal item.

What if my checked luggage is oversized?

IATA, which is the largest worldwide airline regulator, states that checked bags can’t be over 62 linear inches in order to keep the baggage handlers from working with oversized bags. Anything over 62 linear inches will be labeled as “oversized” and will cost you an extra 100-200$, depending on the airline.

Even if you pay the hefty oversized luggage fees, there is a limit to how large checked luggage you can bring. Each airline considers this individually, and, for instance, American Airlines will allow oversized bags up to 126 linear inches (320 cm).

The rules are slightly different for sporting equipment, though. Bicycles, for instance, will almost always be allowed, even if they’re oversized, and their luggage fees won’t be as expensive.

What if my checked luggage is overweight?

Overweight checked luggage is allowed, but will be marked as overweight and will cost an additional 100-200$, depending on the airline. IATA states that checked baggage can’t weigh over 70 lbs (31 kg), to protect the baggage handlers from working with overweight items, so anything over that will be marked as overweight. Each airline has a different limit on overweight checked luggage. For instance, American Airlines will allow checked baggage up to 100 lbs (45 kg).

Do carry-on measurements need to be exact?

Unfortunately, carry-on measurements need to be exact. Most airlines have measurement boxes inside airports, which are in the exact measurements of their restrictions. If your carry-on looks oversized, they’ll ask you to put it inside the measurement box. Carry-on suitcases aren’t really flexible, so you won’t be able to get away with an oversized carry-on. If, on the other hand, you’re using a duffel bag or a backpack as your carry-on, then you might get away with a slightly oversized bag, as you’ll be able to squeeze it inside the measurement box.

Should I get hard or soft luggage ?

There are pros and cons for both, but I personally tend to lean towards fabric luggage. It’s lighter, less likely to crack or break, and you can extend it slightly outwards if you’ve over-packed. On the other hand, hardside luggage offers more protection to your items and is better-looking in my opinion. Modern hardside suitcases made from Polycarbonate are also pretty durable and don’t weigh much more than comparable fabric alternatives. So it doesn’t really matter that much whether you choose a hardside or softside bag – it’s more a matter of preference.

The only real instance where I wouldn’t use a hardside plastic suitcase is in checked luggage. They’re put under a lot more pressure from baggage handling and quite often, they get thrown around and placed at the bottom of a pile of checked suitcases. They’re much more likely to each up with cracks or dents, so using a fabric-checked suitcase would make more sense.

Should I get a rolling or spinner suitcase ?

There are advantages to both, but generally, it’s better to stick with spinner suitcases for carry-on luggage and rolling ones for checked luggage. That’s because while spinner suitcases are much easier to move around, they’re much easier to break off the suitcase. And in checked luggage, they’re much more likely to break off from luggage handling.

Rolling suitcases will usually be more spacious because the wheels are somewhat integrated within the main frame. On spinner suitcases, they’ll extend outwards of the suitcase, which results in a lot of unused space underneath the suitcase. Remember that the wheels are counted towards the total measurements.

But if you’re having back problems or in general lugging around a suitcase gives you hard time, then a suitcase with spinner wheels might make more sense. Compared to inline rolling suitcases, they’re much, much easier to move around – they practically roll by themselves.

How much luggage can I bring on international flights ?

Most airlines will allow one personal item and one carry-on for free on international flights. As for checked luggage, most airlines will allow one or even two checked bags for free for each passenger, and the rest will need to be paid for with additional fees, ranging from 30-100$. In general, the fees increase for each next checked bag and could be as follows: 30$ for the first checked bag, 40$ for the second, and 100$ for each next one.

You’ll be able to bring up to 10 checked suitcases (even though it’ll cost a small fortune!) but on some international destinations, a bit less. Airlines operate within the rules set by airline regulators, and in some countries, each passenger can have only two or three checked bags.

How many pieces and what size should a luggage set be?

Most luggage sets come in three pieces: one carry-on (19-23 inches), one medium checked suitcase (25-27 inches), and one large checked suitcase (28-32 inches). I would advise against getting a 3-piece luggage set like this because quite often, the largest piece in the set is oversized, which means that it’s above the 62 linear inch limit and you’ll have to pay oversized luggage fees.

Instead, it would be much more beneficial to get a 2-piece set containing a carry-on and a medium checked suitcase, or a 3-piece set that also contains a personal item (underseat bag). If you’re getting a 3-piece set with a large checked bag, make sure that it isn’t oversized.

Luggage sets are often cheaper to get than buying each piece individually, so it’s quite often a smarter choice to buy a whole set.

Final Words

Getting the right size luggage is really important because if it’s oversized, you might end up paying extra in fees, or just end up with a lot of unused space. For anyone new to traveling, I’d advise getting a small backpack as a personal item and a carry-on that’s within 22 x 14 x 9 inches. This is more than enough for most trips, and I’m usually able to squeeze in everything needed for 2-4 weeks in there. If you’re an over-packer, you might need to swap that carry-on with a medium checked suitcase, which would be 25-27 inches in size (longest end).

You Might Also Enjoy

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.

Featured in

GET CONNECTED

Follow Clever Journey on social media for travel tips, packing hacks, and latest updates!

SUB TO NEWSLETTER

Subscribe to our newsletter to get the latest travel tips, packing hacks, gear reviews, and bargain deals straight to your inbox. We hate spam, so we’ll send only the most important stuff.

• Fishing Rod

What Are Travel Bags Called?

In this article:

Duffel Bags

Garment bags, rolling bags, carry-on bags.

When it comes to traveling, having the right type of luggage is crucial. From short weekend trips to long-term travel, there are a variety of travel bags to choose from, each designed to meet different needs and preferences.

In this article, we will explore the various types of travel bags and answer the question: what are travel bags called?

Suitcases are one of the most common types of travel bags and are usually rectangular in shape with a handle on the top and wheels on the bottom.

They are available in a range of sizes, from small carry-ons to larger checked bags, and are often made of durable materials like hard-shell polycarbonate or soft, flexible fabric.

Duffel bags are cylindrical in shape and feature a single large compartment for storing clothing and other items. They are typically made of a flexible, lightweight material like canvas or nylon, making them a popular choice for carrying on the go.

Some duffel bags also feature additional pockets and compartments for added organization. In our exploration of travel essentials, a common question arises: Is it ok to leave laptop backpack behind during certain trips? Let’s delve into the considerations.

Backpacks are a great option for travelers who prefer to have their hands free while exploring a new destination. They typically feature a large main compartment and multiple pockets for storing various items like clothing, electronics, and travel documents.

Backpacks can range from small daypacks to larger backpacking packs designed for extended travel.

Garment bags are designed specifically for transporting clothing and are often used by business travelers. They feature a long rectangular shape and can hold multiple suits or dresses without causing them to wrinkle.

Garment bags can be carried by hand or placed inside another piece of luggage like a suitcase.

Tote bags are a versatile option for travelers who need a bag that can be used for a variety of purposes. They typically feature one large main compartment and multiple pockets for storing various items like snacks, electronics, and travel documents. Tote bags are often made of lightweight, flexible materials like canvas or nylon.

Rolling bags are similar to suitcases, but are designed to be pulled along behind you rather than carried by hand. They are often made of a durable material like polycarbonate and feature multiple compartments and pockets for added organization.

Rolling bags come in a range of sizes and styles, making them a popular choice for both short and long-term travel.

While discussing the importance of efficient packing, we can’t ignore sports enthusiasts. A frequently asked question is, how many clubs in a golf bag make for the perfect travel set? Let’s break down the ideal golf bag configuration for your next journey.

Carry-on bags are designed to be taken on the plane with you, rather than checked in with your luggage. They are typically smaller in size than checked bags and must meet specific size and weight requirements set by the airline. Carry-on bags can be any type of bag, including suitcases, duffel bags, backpacks, or tote bags.

Travel bags come in a variety of shapes and sizes, each designed to meet different needs and preferences. Some common types of travel bags include suitcases, duffel bags, backpacks, garment bags, tote bags, rolling bags, and carry-on bags.

Suitcases are the most common type of travel bag and come in a range of sizes. Duffel bags are popular for their flexibility and lightweight design, while backpacks are great for hands-free exploring.

Garment bags are designed specifically for transporting clothing, while tote bags are versatile and can be used for a variety of purposes. Rolling bags and carry-on bags are also popular options for travel.

For those who appreciate the finer things, the query of how to pack luxury bags for travel is crucial. Join us as we share insider tips on ensuring your high-end accessories arrive at your destination in impeccable condition.

In conclusion, travel bags come in many shapes and sizes, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution. The type of bag that is right for you will depend on your travel needs and preferences.

Whether you prefer a suitcase, duffel bag, backpack, garment bag, tote bag, rolling bag, or carry-on bag, there is a travel bag out there that is perfect for your next adventure.

READ MORE ARTICLES

• Privacy Policy
• Terms & Conditions
• Affiliate Disclosure

What Are Flight Bags Called?

If you’re anything like me, you love to travel. And, one of the best parts of traveling is packing your bags and getting ready for your next adventure. But, what do you do with all your stuff once you’re on the plane? Do you stuff it under your seat? Or, do you have a special place to keep it?

Well, today, I’m going to tell you all about flight bags. A flight bag (also called a pilot bag) can refer to any bag carried on an airplane. Originally though, a flight or pilot bag referred specifically to a document bag carried by pilots and their flight crews. Historically, flight bags bore the airline logo and were lightweight with zippered outside pockets.

So, whether you’re a pilot or simply a traveler, a flight bag can come in handy. It’s a great way to keep all your belongings organized and in one place. And, who knows, maybe you’ll even start a new trend by carrying your own flight bag.

So, what are flight bags called?

A flight bag is a bag carried on an airplane. It can refer to any type of bag, but it originally referred specifically to a document bag carried by pilots and their flight crews. Flight bags usually have the airline logo on them, and they are lightweight with zippered outside pockets.

Let’s dig into it and see what we can learn.

What Are Airplane Bags Called?

When you’re packing for a trip, one of the first decisions you have to make is what kind of luggage to bring. There are many different types and sizes of luggage, but one of the most important distinctions is between carry-on luggage and checked luggage.

Carry-on luggage is any kind of luggage that you can bring on the plane with you and store in the overhead bins or under your seat. This includes small rolling suitcases, backpacks, duffel bags, and travel totes. Checked luggage is any kind of luggage that you have to check at the ticket counter before boarding the plane.

The main advantage of carry-on luggage is that you can avoid the long lines and delays at the baggage claim after your flight. You also don’t have to worry about your luggage getting lost or damaged, because you’ll have it with you the whole time. The downside of carry-on luggage is that you’re limited in what you can bring, and you might have to pay extra fees if your bag is too big or too heavy.

If you’re planning to bring carry-on luggage, it’s important to make sure that it meets the size and weight restrictions for your particular airline. These restrictions can vary depending on the airline and the type of plane, so it’s always a good idea to check before you pack.

In general, carry-on luggage should be small enough to fit in the overhead bin or under your seat, and it should weigh less than 50 pounds (23 kg). If you’re unsure whether your bag meets these requirements, you can always ask a member of the airline staff at the ticket counter.

So, to sum up, carry-on luggage is any kind of luggage that you can bring on the plane with you, and it has the advantage of avoiding the baggage claim. Just make sure that your carry-on luggage meets the size and weight restrictions for your airline.

An additional, If you’re taking a plane trip, you’ll need to bring carry-on luggage. This is any bag that meets the size requirements to fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you. Common carry-on items include small rolling suitcases, backpacks, duffel bags, and travel totes.

What Are Airport Bags Called?

Carry-on bags, sometimes known as hand luggage or cabin baggage, are items of luggage that are taken into the plane’s cabin. They are not checked in before your flight and are normally stored in the overhead storage compartment above your seat.

There are a few different types of carry-on bags, including:

-Duffel bags -Rolling carry-on bags -Backpacks -Tote bags

The size and weight restrictions for carry-on bags vary by airline, so it’s important to check the rules for your particular airline before packing your bag. In general, though, most carry-on bags must be smaller than 22 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches and weigh no more than 10 pounds.

So, what are airport bags called? They’re called carry-on bags!

Besides this, Carry-on bags, sometimes known as hand luggage or cabin baggage, are items of luggage that are taken into the plane’s cabin. They are not checked in before your flight and are normally stored in the overhead storage compartment above your seat.

What Is A Large Travel Bag Called?

A duffel bag, duffle bag, or kit bag is a large bag made of either natural or synthetic fabric (typically canvas), historically with a top closure using a drawstring. Generally a duffel bag is used by non-commissioned personnel in the military, and for travel, sports and recreation by civilians.

Duffel bags are often used as an alternative to suitcases when traveling because they are usually much lighter and can be more easily carried. Additionally, duffel bags can be easily stowed away in small spaces, making them ideal for traveling in cramped quarters.

One of the most popular uses for duffel bags is as a gym bag. Duffel bags are large enough to fit all of the necessary gear for a workout, but not so large that they become cumbersome to carry.

So, what is a large travel bag called? A duffel bag, duffle bag, or kit bag!

Moreover, A duffle bag is a large bag that is typically made out of canvas. It is used by people in the military and for travel, sports, and recreation. It has a top closure that uses a drawstring.

How Do You Care For A Flight Bag?

Assuming you are referring to the care of a carry-on bag or personal item when flying, the answer is fairly simple. First and foremost, you want to make sure that your bag is small enough to fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you. The last thing you want is to have to check your bag and risk it getting lost or damaged.

Once you have determined that your bag will fit, you want to pack it wisely. You don’t want to pack anything too heavy or fragile that could break. And, you want to make sure that all of your valuables are packed in a way that they will not get lost or stolen. A good rule of thumb is to keep all of your valuables in a small, zippered pouch that can be tucked away safely.

When it comes to actually flying with your bag, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, always keep your bag close to you. Don’t put it in the overhead bin and then forget about it. Second, be mindful of how you are handling your bag. Don’t swing it around or throw it. And, third, be careful of what you put in your bag. Don’t pack anything that could leak or spill.

Following these simple tips will help you to keep your carry-on bag or personal item safe and sound on your next flight.

What Types Of Luggage Bags Are Allowed In Flight?

There are generally two types of luggage bags that are allowed in flight: carry-on bags and checked bags. Carry-on bags are limited to one bag per passenger, and they must be small enough to fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you. Checked bags are larger bags that are checked at the ticket counter and placed in the cargo hold of the plane.

What Is The Best Type Of Bag For Travelling?

There is no definitive answer to this question as everyone’s travel needs are different. However, there are a few things to consider when choosing a travel bag. First, think about the type of travel you’ll be doing. If you’ll be doing a lot of walking or hiking, you’ll need a bag that’s easy to carry. A backpack or daypack is a good option in this case. If you’ll be mostly taking public transportation or staying in one place, a rolling suitcase might be a better option.

Another thing to consider is the size of the bag. You’ll want to make sure it’s not too big or too small for your needs. If you’re travelling carry-on only, you’ll need to be especially mindful of bag size. Most airlines have size restrictions for carry-on luggage, so be sure to check those before you buy a bag.

Finally, consider your budget. Travel bags can range in price from very affordable to quite expensive. Decide how much you’re willing to spend on a travel bag and then look for one that fits your needs and budget.

What Are The Best Flight Bags For Student Pilots?

There is no definitive answer to this question since different pilots have different preferences for their flight bags. However, some general tips that may be useful for student pilots when choosing a flight bag include:

– Make sure that the bag is large enough to fit all of your necessary flight gear, including charts, a flight computer, and headphones.

– Choose a bag with multiple compartments and pockets to help keep everything organized.

– If you plan on carrying any type of portable electronic device, look for a bag that has a dedicated space for it and/or includes a charging port.

– Consider getting a bag with wheels for easy transport – this can be especially helpful if you have to walk long distances between the parking lot and the terminal.

How Many Types Of Luggage Brands Are There?

There are a variety of luggage brands available on the market. Some of the more popular brands include Samsonite, Travelpro, and Delsey. There are also a number of less well-known brands that offer good quality luggage at a lower price point. When choosing a luggage brand, it is important to consider your needs and budget to find the best option for you.

What’S The Difference Between A Cabin Bag And Carry-On Luggage?

There are a few key differences between cabin baggage and carry-on luggage. First, cabin baggage is typically smaller in size than carry-on luggage. This is because cabin baggage is meant to be stored in the overhead compartment on an airplane, while carry-on luggage is meant to be stored in the luggage compartment below the plane. Second, cabin baggage is typically lighter in weight than carry-on luggage. This is because cabin baggage is not allowed to weigh more than a certain amount, typically 10-15 pounds. Third, cabin baggage is typically allowed to have more items in it than carry-on luggage. This is because cabin baggage is meant to be stored in the overhead compartment, which typically has more space than the luggage compartment below the plane. Finally, cabin baggage is typically allowed to have more liquids in it than carry-on luggage. This is because cabin baggage is meant to be stored in the overhead compartment, which typically has more space for liquids than the luggage compartment below the plane.

What Are The Most Popular Flight Bags?

There are a few factors to consider when determining the most popular flight bags. First, what is the purpose of the bag? Second, what is the bag’s capacity? And third, what is the bag’s style?

When it comes to purpose, the most popular flight bags are typically those that are designed for carrying a laptop and other electronics. This is because many people who travel by plane need to be able to access their laptops during the flight.

In terms of capacity, the most popular flight bags are typically those that can hold a laptop, a charger, and other small items. This is because they need to be able to hold everything that a person needs while still being small enough to fit in the overhead bin.

Finally, when it comes to style, the most popular flight bags are typically those that are sleek and stylish. This is because many people want a bag that looks good as well as being functional.

What Are The Least Popular Flight Bags?

There are a few factors that contribute to a flight bag’s popularity. First, the bag must be functional and meet the needs of the traveler. Second, it should be stylish and stylish. Third, the price must be reasonable.

The least popular flight bags are those that do not meet one or more of these criteria. For example, a bag that is not functional or is too expensive is not likely to be popular. A bag that is not stylish is also not likely to be popular.

What Are The Most Expensive Flight Bags?

There are a few factors that contribute to making a flight bag expensive. First, the bag must be large enough to fit all of the necessary items for a flight, including a laptop, headphones, and other electronics. It also needs to be durable, as it will be subject to a lot of wear and tear. Finally, it should have a lot of compartments and pockets to keep everything organized.

Some of the most expensive flight bags on the market are made by well-known brands like Tumi and Rimowa. They both offer a variety of sizes and styles to choose from, and their bags are made from high-quality materials. If you’re looking for a less expensive option, there are a number of smaller brands that make good flight bags as well.

What Are The Least Expensive Flight Bags?

There are a few different factors that go into determining the least expensive flight bags. The first is the type of bag you need. If you are only carrying a few items, a small bag may be the least expensive option. If you are carrying more, or need more space for things like a laptop or change of clothes, a larger bag will be more expensive.

The second factor is the brand. Some brands are more expensive than others, so it is worth looking around to find the best deal.

The third factor is the material. Flight bags can be made from a variety of materials, and the least expensive option is usually going to be a synthetic material like nylon.

Finally, the style of bag can also affect the price. A simple, functional bag is going to be less expensive than one with a lot of bells and whistles.

So, to sum up, the least expensive flight bags are going to be small, made from synthetic materials, and fairly basic in design.

So there you have it! The history of the flight bag and what it’s called today. Now that you know all about flight bags, be sure to pick one up before your next trip. And who knows, maybe you’ll be the pilot someday!

Can You Recommend A Good Travel Bag For Airport?

There are a few things to consider when purchasing a travel bag for the airport. First, you’ll want to make sure the bag is spacious enough to hold all of your belongings. Secondly, you’ll want to choose a bag with multiple compartments to help keep you organized. Lastly, you’ll want to pick a bag that’s comfortable to carry, preferably with straps that distribute the weight evenly. With all of that in mind, here are a few travel bags that we think fit the bill:

The Osprey Porter Travel Bag is a great option for those looking for a spacious and well-organized travel bag. It has a large main compartment, as well as multiple smaller pockets and compartments to help keep you organized. Plus, it comes with comfortable shoulder straps that make it easy to carry.

If you’re looking for a travel bag that’s a bit more stylish, the Herschel Little America Backpack might be a good option for you. It comes in a variety of colors and patterns, and it has a sleek and stylish design. It also has a good amount of space and comes with a padded laptop sleeve.

Finally, the North Face Base Camp Duffel Bag is a great option for those who need a lot of space. It’s a large duffel bag that can hold a lot of gear, and it has a comfortable shoulder strap for easy carrying. Plus, it has a waterproof bottom panel that’s great for wet or muddy conditions.

What Type Of Small Travel Bag Do You Recommend For A 3-Day Trip?

There are many types of small travel bags that would work well for a 3-day trip. A carry-on bag or backpack is a great option if you plan on doing a lot of walking or taking public transportation. A tote bag or duffel bag is also a good choice if you’ll be packing heavier items or if you need more space. Whichever type of bag you choose, be sure to pack light and only bring what you need for your trip.

Related Post:

• What are old suitcases called?
• What are the 3 sizes of luggage?
• What are the 4 grades of leather?
• What are the disadvantages of abs plastic?
• What are the heaviest items in a suitcase?

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

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

Types of Bags: A COMPLETE Guide to 40 Different Bags Styles

No outfit is complete without a bag to match. Read about the many different types of bags below in our fashion dictionary. From men’s bags to women’s handbags, from luggage terms to sports bags, get to know all bag related words and terms in our glossary below. 

Different Types of Bags

Backpack (N.) [ bak -pak] Bags that are carried over the shoulders with the help of two thick straps are called backpacks. Traditionally, backpacks have been large-sized, especially used by students to carry books, or travelers and hikers to carry food, camera or water bottles. However, 2017 brought about the fashion trend of smaller backpacks, that were anywhere from the size of a laptop to palm-sized. Also rucksack .

Belt bag (N.) [belt bag]  Micro bags attached to a belt are called belt bags. The difference between fanny packs and belt bags is that fanny packs have no visible demarcation between the belt strap and the bag, whereas belt bags are just a pouch attached to a belt. However, some brands use the two terms synonymously to describe these types of bags. Also called waist bag . Also see fanny pack .

Bicycle bag (N.) [ bahy -si-k uh  l bag] A bag, usually of washable material, that has loops or other hardware used to attach it to bicycle, used by cyclists is called a bicycle bag. Bicycle bags are of three types: handlebar bag, pannier bag and frame bag .

Bindle (N.) [bin-duh l] A fabric sack tied around the end of a stick, carried over the shoulder by a hobo in the American Northeastern hobo community is called a bindle. Bindles were also commonly used by the poorer sections of the north and west-India. In the modern context, bindle is the term used to describe a sack made by knotting opposite ends of a fabric, and are created by fashion brands to give a modern, wearable twist to the hobo subculture. Also see hobo bag .

Bowling bag (N.) [ boh -ling] Inspired by traditional bags used to carry bowling balls, bowling bags are semi circle in shape with short handles. Also see duffel bag .

Briefcase (N.) [ breef -kays] A hard, rectangular box-like bag with a small handle is known as briefcase. Also see laptop bag . Men’s briefcases are almost always hard-cased and boxy. Some women’s briefcases may be of soft material like leather, and have rounder, softer edges.

Bucket bag (N.) [ buhk -it bag] Elongated bags that have top handles, resembling a bucket, or drawstring on the top as a closure are called bucket bags. These types of bags may also have a zip or snap stud (tich) button closure on the inside, and often have an oval or round base. Also known as a drawstring bag , when the top closure is a drawstring.

Camera bag (N.) [kam-uh-rah bag] A square-ish, structured and padded bag used to keep a camera, often with separate compartments for safely storing lens, memory cards and batteries, is called a camera bag. These types of bags may be professional, used to carry digital SLR cameras by professional photographers, that are designed for specific camera sizes. Or they may be casual and decorative that resemble a regular handbag, used especially by women, to carry camera around while traveling or on photography trips. Also camera case .

Clutch (N.) [kluhch] Small, hand-held evening bags that have either detachable or no straps with minimalistic or concealed hardware are called clutch bags. Also see minaudière, evening bag .

Coin purse (N.) [koin purs] Small bags used to carry coins are called coin purses. They’re usually carried with other bags, or are included as a part of a handbag. Among all different types of bags, coin purses are the tiniest, although some brands use term ‘coin purse’ to describe wristlet . Also see clutch .

Cross body (N.) [kraws bod-ee] Bags that are worn with the strap looping over one shoulder and crossing your body diagonally are called cross body bags. These type of bags are worn both with long straps, which falls at the hip, and with short straps, which falls at the waist.

Doctor (N.) [dok-ter] Medium to large size handheld bag with short handles.

Drawstring bag (N.) [draw-string bag] See bucket bag .

Duffel (N.) [ duhf – uh l] Also known as gym bags, duffel bags are long, cylindrical and have both handles and a long strap. Also see bowling bag .

Envelope bag (N.) [en-vuh-lohp bag, ahn-] A small and thin rectangular handheld bag, or clutch , with a triangular flap, resembling an envelope, is called an envelope bag. These types of bags are often used by women during parties to carry phone and cosmetics.

Evening bag (N.) [eev-ning bag] A small decorative handheld bag or clutch used by women during the evenings for parties or dinners is called an evening bag . Often embellished with sequins, pearls or other surface work, evening bags are usually used for special occasions or worn with formal dresses. An evening bag is an embellished clutch, but it an also be a minaudière (hard material clutch), Also see clutch, minaudière .

Fanny pack (N.) [ fan -ee pak] A type of belt bag but with no definition between the belt and the bag is called a fanny pack. These type of bags are popular for their hands-free nature, since there is no strap to be held. That’s why fanny packs are often used by travelers or while trekking or hiking.

Flap bag (N.) [ flap bag ] A type of handbag that has a flap in the front to cover the zip closure is called a flap bag. The flap often has a snap stud (tich) button closure on its under-side. Flap bags are often types of sling bags , but may also be clutches or cross-body .

Frame bag  (N.) [ fray m bag ] A type of triangular or rectangular bag that has loops along two edges, used to attach to the bicycle frame by cyclists to carry things while mountain biking or long-distance biking. These types of bags are made out of soft material like canvas or water-resistant fabric and washable. Also see pannier bag and handlebar bag .

Handlebar bag (N.) [han-duh l bar bag] A type of bicycle bag that has loops at the back to attach to a bicycle handle is called a handlebar bag. These types of bags are designed for motorbikes, and can also be bicycle bags. Also see pannier bag  and frame bag .

Hobo bag (N.) [hoh-boh bag] Handbags made in soft, flexible material like leather that slouch or bend in the middle when set down are called hobo bags. These type of bags are named after the shape of  bindle on a stick that hobos carry over their shoulder. Also see bindle .

Laptop bag (N.) [lap-top bag] Large bags with padding and used to carry laptops are called laptop bags. Laptop bags may also have other compartments to keep laptop accessories, books or other things, with a separate padded compartment just for the laptop.

Messenger (N.) [ mes – uh n-jer] Usually used by men, messenger bags are medium-sized rectangular bags with a long and thick strap. These types of bags are cross-body and made out of soft material, like leather, often with a flap and buckle closure, sometimes used to carry books. Also known as satchel . Also see cross-body bag .

Micro bag (N.) [ mahy -kroh] Smaller-than-palm-sized versions of regular handbags, usually with lots of hardware and details are called micro bags. The difference between micro bags and mini bags is that micro bags are smaller than the size of the palm or sometimes just fist-sized, whereas mini bags may be palm-sized or slightly larger. Also see mini bag .

Minaudière (N.) [mee-noh- dyair]  A small evening bag , or clutch , made from hard material and used for carrying small articles, such as keys or lipstick, is known as a minaudière bag. Minaudières are also sometimes without any handles or straps. These types of bags are ornamental or decorative, and often considered a women’s jewelry piece. Most brands use the term minaudière synonymously with ‘clutch’, although some refer to them just as decorative clutches. Also see clutch, evening bag .

Mini bag  (N.) [ min -ee bag] Small versions of handbags are referred to as mini bags. They may be palm-sized or slightly larger. Some brands also use the term ‘micro bags’ to mean the same as mini bags, however, micro bags may be much smaller in size. Compared to a clutch, a mini bag has a proper handle and/or strap. Also see micro bag .

Pannier bag (N.) [pani-uh r bag] A pair of bicycle bags , set back-to-back, attached at the back, usually through a common flap, used to be attached on either side of a bike, used by cyclists is called a pannier bag. Also see handlebar bag, frame bag .

Phone pouch (N.) [fohn pouch] A tiny bag used to carry a smartphone is called a phone pouch. Phone pouches may be lightly padded, to protect the phone, and may also have a separate compartment for keeping credit card or keys. Some phone pouches are without a strap or handle, meant to be kept within a larger handbag. Some of these types of bags may have a large strap, meant to be worn cross-body or around the waist for easy phone-access.

Pouch (N.) [pou ch] A small bag made out of soft material like satin or leather, either with a zip closure or drawstring, used to store or carry small items like jewelry, coins, rosary or cosmetics is called a pouch. Brands commonly use the term ‘pouch’ synonymously with wristlets. Also see wristlet .

Rucksack (N.) [ ruhk -sak] See backpack .

Round bag (N.) [round bag] Also known as circle bags , they’re sling bags or clutches in a circular shape.

Saddle bag (N.) [sad-uh l bag] A handbag with a flat top and a rounded bottom, with a front flap in the shape of a horse saddle is called a saddle bag.

Satchel (N.) [sach-uh l] See messenger bag .

Shopping bag (N.) [shop-ing bag] A large handbag with top handles used for shopping, sometimes without a closure, is called a shopping bag. Shopping bags are often made of paper, jute or plastic, and may be used by shops to hold purchased items to give to customers. Shopping bags are often reusable, which may be carried by shoppers for groceries, etc. for environment-friendliness. Some fashion brands also use the term ‘shopping bag’ to describe the type of bag that is large and may have  strap or top handles, designed to be carried while shopping.

Side packs (N.) [s ahyd paks ] Two sling handbags connected  at the middle of their straps to be worn side-by-side at the same time. The side packs were introduced in the Chanel Spring 2019 collection, and have been seen on fashion influencers since. However, it remains to be seen if they will become a popular fashion trend (we hope not).

Sling bag (N.) [sling] Small sized bags that have a long strap, to be worn hanging from one shoulder are known as sling bags. Also see cross-body bag .

Tote (N.) [toht] A large rectangular shaped bag, sometimes without any closure, is called tote bag. Tote bags may have a buckle and strap closure or zip in some cases. Due to their large size, they are often made in washable fabric, used for beach trips, to carry a change of clothes or beach sheet. Leather tote bags are also popular for office use by women to carry laptops or files.

Vanity case (N.) [vani-tee kay s] A small rectangular handheld bag, usually with a top handle, used to store women’s beauty items like makeup. Vanity cases are often hard-cased and leather bound, with small compartments inside to separate different makeup items, or pouches for makeup brushes. Sometimes these types of bags also have mirrors installed on the inside of the lid, which can be used for doing makeup.

Wallet (N.) [ wol -it] A tiny fold-able bag used to carry money and cards is known as a wallet. Wallets don’t have straps or handles, but may have a loop for carrying it around the thumb or wrist. Wallets are typically carried within larger handbags. It is common for wallets to have tight compartments for storing different credit cards, and separate compartments to store currency notes or licenses. Also see wristlet .

Waist bag (N.) [way st bag] See belt bag .

Weekend bag (N.) [week-end bag] A large handbag with top handles and a thick strap, often made of durable material like leather or canvas, used for storing overnight clothing and toiletries for a weekend getaway is called a weekend bag. Also weekender bag .

Wristlet (N.) [ rist -lit] Small bags that have a loop on one end, which is wrapped around the wrists, are called wristlets. Wristlets are different from wallets in that wallets are used just to carry money and credit cards, and so are very compact and structured, whereas wristlets may have a larger open compartment for keys, phone, and a small pouch for money/credit card. Also see wallet .

Also in types of accessories :

Types of heels, types of shoes, types of hats, read about all types of accessories:, types of jewelry, types of sunglasses, types of belts, winter accessories.

Find anything you save across the site in your account

18 Best Travel Backpacks, According to Frequent Flyers

By Gabrielle Porcaro

As someone who frequently travels, I've slung duffels, totes , and travel purses on my arm, but nothing compares to using the best travel backpacks. Depending on the length of your trip, a suitcase can either be too bulky or not big enough, so you'll need the vital second bag to make sure all your clothes, tech, and gear securely arrive at your destination. Plus, traveling with a backpack can be more supportive for your back, freeing up your arms and hands to pull out directions on your phone or to hold an iced coffee. Backpacks can also be surprisingly roomy, so everything you need (or want) on your trip fits as comfortably as possible. The good news is there are a wide range of excellent options to suit any and all of your needs. Below, we found the most travel-friendly options and tapped Glamour editors and some of our frequent-flier friends to share the best travel backpacks.

What to look for in a travel backpack

When shopping for luggage items like a travel backpack, the comfort and capacity of the bag is key. You want it to feel easy on the body, which means wide straps or a hip belt to distribute weight, which comes in handy if you're running to catch a plane or carrying it through a crowded subway. Bonus points if the straps are they adjustable and padded. Consider the material: Is it lightweight, soft, and made of durable material like water-resistant fabric? As for size, think about the use of the backpack. There are weekender bags and carry-on size options you can use for long weekends or smartly packed weeklong vacations and styles for short day trips, hikes, or shopping excursions.

The best travel backpacks, at a glance

• Best Overall : Cotopaxi Allpa 42L Travel Pack , $210
• Best on Amazon : Shrradoo Extra Large 52L Travel Laptop Backpack , $33
• Best Daypack : Lululemon Everywhere Backpack , $78
• Best Budget : Coofay Carry On Backpack , $30
• Best for Commuters : Everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack , $95
• Most Stylish : Tumi Voyageur Just in Case Packable Nylon Travel Backpack , $150

All products featured on Glamour are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Best Overall : Cotopaxi Allpa 42L Travel Pack

Here's a simple, sleek backpack with plenty of built-in organization. “My twin sister and I have traveled the world together, and this bag came in particularly handy on our trip to South America when we both needed more room besides our carry-on luggage. What I loved about this piece is it's essentially a suitcase with straps. The wrap zipper fully opens up, allowing you to see and organize your goods into the compartments. Crafted in repurposed nylon, the exterior is one of a kind, and the colors made it easier to spot one another through the crowds,” says Glamour contributor Gabrielle Porcaro .

Capacity: 42 L / Waterproof : Water-resistant

• Pros: Repurposed nylon body; suitcase layout; weight-distributing harness system
• Cons: Can easily show dirt

Best on Amazon : Shrradoo Extra Large 52L Travel Laptop Backpack

As a runner-up, consider this the Swiss Army knife of backpacks. Hidden in this compact, durable bag are 20 pockets and compartments to accommodate and organize everything from clothes to an umbrella to power cords. A practical standout feature of this travel backpack is an external USB port with set-in charging cables to charge your phone (just remember to charge your power pack before heading out on your trip). Another noteworthy aspect is the U-shaped 3D breathable mesh straps designed to relieve stress from shoulders and reduce a sweaty back.

Capacity: 52 L / Waterproof : Water-resistant

• Pros: So many pockets for organizing; USB charging port; comfortable
• Cons: Chunky, technical look

Best Daypack : Lululemon Everywhere Backpack

Lululemon gets a lot of love for its Lulu leggings and activewear, but don't sleep on accessories like its laptop bags . A classic backpack with a modern design, the Everywhere Backpack has a clean appearance that will effortlessly match your look. Inside it's spacious and has a padded pocket that fits a 16-inch laptop. On the exterior is a front zipper pocket for keys, antibacterial wipes, headphones…whatever you need handy while on the go.

Capacity: 22 L / Waterproof : Water-repellent

• Pros: Internal laptop sleeve; side water bottle pockets; lightweight
• Cons: No luggage strap; not a ton of pockets

Best Budget : Coofay Carry On Backpack

This affordable, multifunctional pack is lightweight but can hold a lot and easily fit under an airline seat as a carry-on. “I loved the space and compartments of this bag. It's durable and packed a lot of room for so many things. The luggage handle strap is also a bonus if you're hauling a roller bag,” wrote one Amazon reviewer . Bonus: It has a shoes and a wet pocket compartment.

Capacity: 17 L / Waterproof : Yes

• Pros: Separate shoe compartment, 29 color options; USB port design
• Cons: Short luggage strap

By Stephanie McNeal

By Elizabeth Logan

By Abby Gardner

Best for Commuters : Everlane the ReNew Transit Backpack

Whether you're a college commuter or in the office most days, this is an excellent option for everyday travel or work trips. It's a go-to for Condé Nast associate director of box business operations Haley Welch . “The separate laptop compartment makes organizing seamless, as does the front and upper zipper compartments, which is great for a Kindle,” she says. She likes that the chic and minimal look effortlessly mixes with every outfit, from comfy travel joggers and hoodies to a work-appropriate suit or dress.

Capacity : 27 L / Waterproof : Water-resistant

• Pros : Internal and external water bottle holders; zipper pocket on top; made from renewed materials
• Cons : Only holds a 15-inch laptop

Most Stylish : Best Tumi Voyageur Just In Case Packable Nylon Travel Backpack

For anyone looking for a dressier option for their everyday commute or regular work trips, Tumi has a gorgeous style. Don't let the sleek appearance fool you; the zipper reveals a very roomy interior but still folds flat. A two-way zipper makes it easier to grab whatever you need from the inside with a smaller front pocket as well. There’s also a very convenient add-to-a-bag sleeve to secure this nicely over your suitcase handle, making it one to use on daily and international excursions. It's so stylish it can double as a cute work bag for office days.

Capacity: 15"H x 12"W x 4 1/2"D. (Interior capacity: large) / Waterproof : Water-resistant

• Pros :Packable; folds down flat; lightweight
• Cons: Doesn’t fit a ton

Best for Organization : Snoffic Travel Backpack

If remaining organized is of the utmost importance while traveling or in everyday life, look no further than this Snoffic backpack. This wallet-friendly pick has a 4.6-star rating on Amazon and under $35 price tag. “I was able to pack a week's worth of summer clothes in it, which included two summer dresses," says one Amazon reviewer . Not only does this bag offer ample space and waterproof material, but it also includes two clear toiletry bags (also waterproof) to help you reduce your zip-lock baggie usage. Plus, it comes in a wide range of pretty shades.

Capacity : 40 L / Waterproof : Water-resistant

• Pros : Nicely priced; roomy; includes two toiletry bags
• Cons : Boxy shape

Best for Pockets : Athleta Excursion Backpack

This pick, courtesy of Glamour commerce editor Malia Griggs , is one that can hold every little trinket or gadget you own. “I thought this backpack was going to my go-to for hiking, but it’s actually my go-to for pretty much everything. I love how sleek it is, and yet, despite its slim appearance, it manages to fit my 15-inch laptop, my secondary screen, charger, headphones, e-reader, and mouse. It has handy organizational features, like an inner key ring, zippered outer pockets for me to stash my lip gloss and phone, and not one but two mesh pockets that fit my water bottle and an umbrella. Its handles are also made of a breathable fabric—so useful when I’ve worked up a sweat while out and about.”

• Pros :Lightweight; ripstop material resists snags and tears; mesh back panel for added support
• Cons: Larger on top shape

Best Minimalist Design : Dagne Dover Dakota Medium Neoprene Backpack

“On my last flight I saw not one, not two, but multiple travelers with this style hanging from their backs. As someone who regularly takes Dagne Dover bags on trips, I understand the popularity. The neoprene material is strong, soft, and stretchy, which causes the bag to flex to your body and whatever you put inside. It's forgiving, allowing you to fit in and possibly overstuff everything you need for a trip. It also washes well, ensuring it will always have that chic appearance even after some wear and tear,” says Porcaro. Dagne Dover also makes excellent diaper backpacks like this parent-approved Indi Diaper Bag .

Capacity: 16 L / Waterproof : No

• Pros: Packs a lot; machine washable
• Cons: Neoprene is a bit heavier than other material; material creases easily

Best for Airplane Travel : Augustnoa Classic Noa

“So many features drew me to this bag: the eco-friendly (plus water-friendly) material, smart design, and luggage sleeve—a must for any travel carry-on piece. There are ten pockets and compartments to organize essentials, something I took full advantage of when using. As an active person trying to hydrate more, I also appreciated the side pockets that securely held my water bottle (I bent over, and it didn't budge). It also includes a removable drawstring bag, something I always forget to pack for morning workouts and overnight travels,” says Porcaro.

Capacity: 21 L / Waterproof : Water-resistant

• Pros: Pockets on straps; laptop and tablet sleeve; two water bottle holders
• Cons: Pockets in the back and on straps are small

Best Roll Top : Roark Passenger 27L 2.0 Bag

Expandable storage is always a plus with any travel bag. This backpack, from super cool brand Roark, has an adjustable top to allow more room. The roll-top also has a magnetic entry, allowing for easy and secure access on the move. Interior and exterior pockets, including one for your tablet or laptop, sunglasses, and a hidden pocket for your passport, are specific details that make this a unique backpack. Ergonomic air mesh padded straps, a quilted back, and chest straps prevent this from adding any discomfort to your travels. The appearance calls for adventure, but it equally works in cities.

Capacity: 27 L / Waterproof : 100% Nylon

• Pros: Streamlined look; quilted back; magnetic closure top
• Cons: Could use more internal pockets

Best Large Travel Bag : Patagonia Black Hole Duffel 55L

The beauty of this bag is it says it right in the title—it's a black hole. With a 55-liter capacity, there's no doubt it will hold everything you need for a long weekend or even a long weekend trip. Ultra-comfortable to carry, it's perfect for hiking excursions, camping trips, or multi-city European backpacking adventures. Durably made with 100% recycled fabric, this fits in the overhead bin; if you want to check it, you can trust it will return to you just as you left it.

Capacity: 55 L / Waterproof : Water Repellent

• Pros: Large, carry-on size, top and side handles; removable shoulder straps
• Cons: Rugged design

Best for Laptop : Herschel Kaslo Dayback Tech Backpack

If you're looking for a laptop backpack , this is a top choice. Hershel backpacks are a go-to for marriage and family therapist and mom of two boys, Whitney Steller. “I have had this for almost six years, and the quality is amazing. No rips or anything and the straps are still comfortable. “The classic grade school look was also a draw and the fact that it fits perfectly under a plane seat. This style, in particular, is eco-friendly, made from post-consumer water bottles, and has a padded compartment to fit up a 15-inch laptop.

Capacity: 20 L / Waterproof : No

• Pros: Optional strum strap to help disturbed weight; padded compartment for laptop
• Cons: No luggage sleeve

Best Y-Pack : Topo Designs Y-Pack Backpack

This is an awesome option for anyone who ends up leaving a trip with more than they brought. “The adjustable Y-shaped strap can be tight and secure or loosened to allow for more room, which is the reason why this is a piece of heavy rotation for me. It always shocks me how much I can fit/shove into the main compartment yet still slide my laptop out of the back sleeve. No matter if it’s filled with a hoodie and various pouches holding makeup, power cords, and snacks; it's easy to access. I like to use the zip pocket on the top to store antibacterial wipes, hand sanitizer, headphones, and anything else I want easy access to once I arrive on the flight,” says Porcaro.

Capacity: 23.8 L / Waterproof : No

• Pros: Drawstring closure offers more space; zip pocket on top for easy access; durable material great for travel and the outdoors
• Cons: G-hook buckle closure can sometimes be tough

Best Waterproof : SealLine Skylake Dry Pack

The beauty of this piece is that it rolls up for easy packing within a suitcase or larger travel backpack. The fact that it's created from an extremely lightweight material also ups the packability and wear factor. Jen Ator, a personal trainer, used this on her honeymoon in Thailand. “Not only was it super sturdy and waterproof, but it fits everything we needed during day trips.” She also pointed out how handy the exterior pocket was for easy access to essentials like a phone to snap a picture of her and her husband.

Capacity : 18 L / Waterproof : Yes

• Pros: Lightweight; stowable
• Cons: No interior pocket

Best Convertible : Thule Crossover 2 Convertible Backpack

Adaptability is vital when traveling, and this Thule convertible backpack offers various ways to hold it. If you're in a tight space, de-boarding, or want to give your shoulders a break, there is a longer shoulder strap and top handle to hold. Inside the backpack, you'll find compartments that look like your favorite easy-rolling carry-on suitcase, making it easy to keep everything with you secure and organized. Another standout feature is the exterior crush-resistant SafeZone compartment that's perfect for storing sunglasses or a phone.

Capacity: 21 ¾"H x 14"W x 8"D. / Waterproof : Water Resistant

• Pros: Crust resistant, two-way zip closure, RFID-shielded pocket;
• Cons: Expensive

Best for City Travel : PAK Large Nylon Backpack

“As a backpack I recently added to my collection, I was impressed by how many features were hidden in what seemed like a pretty basic bag. First, it’s worth noting how seamlessly this slid on and off my back, making it a breeze to sit on the subway or grab my wallet to buy coffee. At first glance, I was confused about the zipper on the bottom of the front pocket, but when I realized it was a coat sling, which, as someone who runs cold and always has an extra layer, is something I will use again and again. Another made-for-me feature is an extra large pocket for water bottles since it’s a personal pet peeve when they aren’t wide enough for standard sizes. Having only worn this around the city for daily life, I appreciate that the shape and look of the pack are city-ready and more polished. When I take this on international trips, I look forward to using the hidden theft-proof compartments,” says Porcaro.

Capacity: 13.5”L x 7” W x 14” H / Waterproof : No

• Pros: Easy access pocket in the back, Coat sling, Large side pockets
• Cons: Not super large

Best Customizable : Roam Continental Backpack

Anyone who is a fan of customization will appreciate this pick. Buyers can choose the color they want on the front, back, side, and straps to create a bag that is uniquely theirs. This is favorite of Glamour commerce editor Jenifer Calle , who has been using it for years. “It fits enough for weekend trips and vacation travel. I particularly like that the side zippers fit my Owala water bottle and there are plenty of zipper and pockets to hold my wallet, keys, chargers, lip balms, and more” says Glamour’s Calle.

Capacity : 26 L / Waterproof : Water Repellent

• Pros : Customizable; 100-day trial period; soft material; luggage sleeve
• Cons : Expensive

By Kelsey Clark

By Danielle Cohen

By Jake Henry Smith

By Paula Lee

This site has limited support for your browser. We recommend switching to Edge, Chrome, Safari, or Firefox.

Flash Sale ⚡ Limited Time Offer

The Foldie® 4.0

The foldie® crossbody.

• The Foldie® Toiletry Bag

Cart 0 items

Sorry, looks like we don't have enough of this product.

• American Express
• Diners Club

Unfold new experiences

With our best-selling foldable travel bags.

The Originals

The Original Black

The Original Navy

The Original Teal

The Original Red

The Original Fuchsia

The Original Beige

The crossbody.

The Black Crossbody

The Navy Crossbody

The Teal Crossbody

The Red Crossbody

The Purple Crossbody

The Beige Crossbody

New Collection

Our Foldable Crossbody

Our Story, Our Promise

We believe in a hassle-free travel experience.

Product 1 of 2

Introducing The Foldie - the ultimate travel bag that combines functionality and convenience in one sleek package. Whether you're a frequent traveler or just looking for a compact way to...

Product 2 of 2

Introducing our versatile Foldable Crossbody Bag, a stylish and functional accessory designed to meet your everyday needs. This bag is thoughtfully crafted with convenience and security in mind, making it...

Unfold. pack. Explore.

Complete the look with matching colors.

Free Shipping

On all orders

60 Day Guarantee

Happy or your money back

ShopPay + AfterPay

Buy now, pay later

Please SAVE to make app work

12 Travel Garment Bags to Look Good Everywhere

Be wrinkle-free everywhere you go

Every product on this page was chosen by a Harper's BAZAAR editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

But choosing the best travel garment bag for your needs can be a challenge. There are a lot of options on the market, so we asked an expert about how to find the right one. According to Tumi creative director Victor Sanz, “Your garment bag should be sturdy, functional, and sleek. If you’re frequently traveling by plane, a garment bag that folds to fit carry-on requirements is essential.” He adds, “You want to find the size that will fit all your clothes without having to overfold them and will allow you to reach your destination in style.”

Best Quilted Garment Bag

Mz wallace michael garment bag.

Best Luxury Garment Bag

Tumi alpha garment bag trifold carry-on.

Best Garment Duffel

Halfday the garment duffel.

Best Timeless Garment Bag

Longchamp boxford garment bag.

Best Packable Garment Bag

Calpak packable garment bag.

Best Affordable Garment Bag

Amazon basics premium garment bag.

Best Durable Garment Bag

Hartmann metropolitan two-garment sleeve.

Best Personalized Garment Bag

Mark & graham commuter 2-in-1 garment bag.

Best Expandable Garment Bag

Samsonite ascella 3.0 softside expandable luggage.

Best Water-Resistant Garment Bag

Stitch ultimate garment bag.

It’s also important to consider bonus features, like pockets and organizational compartments, and, as Sanz notes, “A crucial function is to ensure that you’re able to hang your garment bag when you arrive at your destination, so that you can prepare your outfits as easily as possible and to ensure that all your clothes are crisp.” Keeping all this in mind, we found the 12 best travel garment bags out there today. Once you start using one of these, you’re never going to go back.

MZ Wallace’s signature quilting isn’t limited to the brand’s totes, appearing here in garment bag form. The thin design is extremely lightweight, ideal for quick trips when you need to bring one to three outfits. There is even an exterior pocket for bonus storage.

Dimensions: 22" × 3" × 39"

Materials: Oxford, leather

What reviewers are saying: “I have been interested in a MZ Wallace garment bag for a while. It is perfect! Just right proportions and size. Thoughtful design and construction details.”

Tumi always delivers premium luggage that will last you over a decade, and this garment bag is no exception. Sanz says: “It’s foldable, with a sturdy handle for easy carrying, making it convenient and compact for every type of travel. I also love that it has several zipper pockets, so I can pack my toiletries and other travel essentials all in one bag. When I arrive at my destination, I hang it in the closet and I know that I will be ready to go.”

Dimensions: 15" x 22" x 6"

Materials: Ballistic nylon

What reviewers are saying: “This bag stores so much for a carry on. I was able to comfortably fit 2 suits and more for a destination wedding!”

This duffel has been receiving high praise ever since its release. A few of the reasons it’s so popular: The duffel is carry-on friendly, water-resistant, and has interior and exterior pockets. And those are only a few of its distinguishing features. Choose an original or compact size for the style that suits your needs.

Dimensions: 22" x 12" x 12"

Materials: Polyester

What reviewers are saying: “The Garment Duffel is a great purchase, especially for anyone in an industry that takes short frequent trips. I was actually able fit quite a bit more clothes than I had anticipated. Took the bag to work and my company bought 20 of them to give to customers. Great purchase.”

Longchamp’s iconic nylon and leather trim takes on a garment bag silhouette. The two-tone design exudes sophistication, with practical touches like a top carry handle, built-in hanger, and front zip pocket.

Dimensions: 23.25" x 41.25"

Materials: Nylon, leather

What reviewers are saying: “I bought this as a gift for my boyfriend who travels a lot and needed a nice garment bag particularly for his suits. This bag is perfect! It fits his suit as well as a few extra shirts. The fabric is an amazing, durable quality, and the leather details make this product look incredible.”

This garment bag is actually designed to fit inside of your carry-on, rather than serving as a stand-alone piece. The water-resistant exterior protects against spills, and exterior zip pockets hold small accessories. It gets the job done, while taking up the least possible amount of space.

Dimensions: 40" x 19"

What reviewers are saying: “I use this bag when I need to workout at work. I go from a suit to athleticwear in minutes.”

Looking for an affordable option that is available ASAP? Amazon’s garment bag holds up to three suits or dresses and boasts multiple zipper compartments.

Dimensions: 40" x 4" x 20.5"

What reviewers are saying: “I bought this bag in 2019 and it has held up incredibly well since then, performs all functions advertised at a great price value. I have taken it on many flights, buses and train rides and have never had an issue with fitting it in the overhead bin on both longer-haul flights and short budget-airline carriers.”

Hartmann’s garment bag adds contemporary touches to an otherwise traditional design. The result? A chic, useful travel accessory that will stand the test of time. The padded shoulder strap and multiple interior pockets enhance the convenience of this style.

Materials: Nylon

What reviewers are saying: “Hartmann was an anniversary gift from my work place, and I am still proud to own it 35 years later.”

Mark & Graham Commuter 2-in-1 Garment Bag

Another convertible duffel, but this time with a personalized touch. That’s right—Mark & Graham lets you monogram your duffel. With a plethora of zippered and snap interior and exterior pockets, this bag gets creative with its storage solutions.

Dimensions: 22" x 10" x 10"

This spinner-style garment bag makes navigating a chaotic airport easy. The ergonomic design has expandable capabilities, as well as various compartments, a hanger bracket, and a pocket for liquids.

Dimensions: 20.5" x 24" x 9.5"

What reviewers are saying: “It’s easy to maneuver and overall great quality and very neat design (many compartments and zippered areas).”

For golfers and non-golfers alike, Stitch makes a duffel that is water- and stain-resistant, and includes a hanger hook, shoulder strap, elastic shoe pockets, and webbed handles. You can even get it customized with your initials.

Dimensions: 22.5" x 11.5" x 12"

What reviewers are saying: “Love it! Fits into the airplane overhead bin, no trouble bringing it along as a carry-on bag. Very sturdy, zippers are tough enough. Shoulder strap is removable. My suit arrived in top shape using this garment bag. Highly recommended.”

Ralph Lauren Leather-Trim Hybrid Garment Duffel

Ralph Lauren’s duffel design is the epitome of understated elegance. An accompanying shoulder strap makes it easy to carry around.

Dimensions: 15" x 21.5" x 9"

Materials: Polyester, leather

Gucci Savoy Garment Bag

Embrace the bold luxury aesthetic with a Gucci bag covered in the house’s monogram. Containing a big compartment with a hanger and two zip pockets, this garment bag will hold all your essentials.

Dimensions: 21.5" x 16.1" x 6.7"

Materials: Canvas, leather, cotton

.css-p3fpzg{font-family:NewParisTextBook,NewParisTextBook-roboto,NewParisTextBook-local,Georgia,Times,Serif;font-weight:normal;letter-spacing:-0.015rem;margin-bottom:0.625rem;margin-top:0.625rem;}@media(max-width: 48rem){.css-p3fpzg{font-size:2.25rem;line-height:1.1;}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.css-p3fpzg{font-size:2rem;line-height:1.1;}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-p3fpzg{font-size:2.625rem;line-height:1.1;}}.css-p3fpzg b,.css-p3fpzg strong{font-family:inherit;font-weight:bold;}.css-p3fpzg em,.css-p3fpzg i{font-style:normal;font-family:NewParisTextItalic,NewParisTextItalic-roboto,NewParisTextItalic-local,Georgia,Times,Serif;} Why trust Harper’s Bazaar ?

For more than 150 years, Harper’s Bazaar has been the preeminent fashion, beauty, and lifestyle resource for women at every age. We cover what’s new and what’s next in fashion by working with the world’s leading authorities in ready-to-wear, footwear, accessories, and more. Every story we publish has been thoroughly researched and vetted by our team of editors and industry experts.

Gaby Keiderling is a freelance writer, working on fashion, lifestyle, travel, and sports features.

The Edit: Fashion

20 Comfortable Clogs to Wear Everywhere

The 15 Best Crossbody Bags for Travel

15 Best Summer Sneakers You Can Wear All Day

Shop Gisele Bündchen–Approved Walking Sneakers

9 Best Hoka Shoes for Walking

27 Excellent T-Shirts You Won’t Want to Take Off

12 Travel Pants for Women on Long Flights

24 Spring Sneakers to Shop for 2024

15 Lightweight Pants for Effortless Summer Outfits

Sandals That Feel as Breezy as Linen Pants

The 10 Best New Balance Shoes

NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

Uniqlo releases crochet version of popular half moon crossbody bag that shoppers call ‘perfect’

Share this with

SHOPPING – Contains affiliated content. Products featured in this Metro article are selected by our shopping writers. If you make a purchase using links on this page, Metro.co.uk will earn an affiliate commission. Click here for more information.

You only needed to be on TikTok a few seconds last year to witness the bag of the summer all over your ‘FYP’… yes, we’re talking about the Uniqlo Half Moon Bag .

Hundreds of people raved about the ‘Tardis’ style bag , for its ability to hold all your daily essentials – and more.

Highly recommended as the ‘must-have’ bag even by our very own staff at Metro HQ , you’ll be pleased to hear that Uniqlo have just dropped a stunning new crochet version , that we’re already dubbing the bag of the season.

The new Round Mini Crochet Bag, priced at £24.90 , has been rated the full five out of five stars – with many users praising it for every reason under the sun.

With it coming in a neutral tone, not only is it effortless to style, but once again we are baffled by its spacious size – and it’s literally the perfect bag for any trip you have planned.

Round Mini Crochet Bag

The updated summer edition of our favourite bag still withholds that lightweight and durable material we know and love – providing both portability and longevity too (no matter how much we plan on cramming inside on the next city break).

Best of all? The hand-knitted, round Moon bag comes with an adjustable shoulder strap – not only designed for maximum comfort but also ensures a comfortable fit for everyday use.

Its convenient size makes it suitable for daily tasks and activities – whether you’re planning on sightseeing in a new city, using it for work, or just as a bag to hold onto all your essentials down the beach. Rest assured, you’ll also find a handy inner pocket, offering not only practical storage for keys but valuables too.

One five-star reviewer called Gigi17 said it was ‘versatile and good value for money’.

She went on to say: ‘Love the shape and the handle, transforms easily from banana/cross body to shoulder bag. Get ready to receive lots of compliments!’

Hmarch, another fan of the Round Mini Crochet Bag said: ‘Perfect bag for the sunnier seasons. Much like the other bags, you can put so much in, adjustable straps so you can decide how to wear it. Love it!!’

Someone who didn’t leave their name followed suit of the other reviewers and said: ‘An ideal and comfy bag for traveling!’

They went on to add: ‘I wore this bag on my recent European trip and I was amazed at how much they could hold. This was the mini bag and I was still able to pack everything I needed for the day trips in this bag alone.

‘The straps are wide and comfy and don’t cut in like other bags can and it’s also so cute and stylish to wear! In areas where pickpockets are a cause for concern this bag was perfect at putting my mind at ease so I could enjoy the sights without worrying and looking bag constantly.’

Well you don’t need to tell us twice… get one before they’ve gone.

Follow Metro across our social channels, on Facebook , Twitter and Instagram

Share your views in the comments below

MORE : Charlotte Tilbury’s ‘Magic Vanish’ has been hailed ‘holy grail product’ for under-eye bags

MORE : The top 10 best Amazon travel essentials to grab before your holiday – including cabin bags, plane adapters and more

MORE : If you’re a fan of Cos’ viral quilted bag we’ve found a £21.99 budget alternative

Sign up to our Shopping newsletter

Get the latest trends, offers and trusted reviews

You were the handsome American fella standing next to me, wearing a brown…

To the beautiful blonde in the white T-shirt with black stripes and fluffy…

Enter your birthday for your free daily horoscope sent straight to your inbox!

Get us in your feed

Airlines | Mascots Dinger, Rocky and Bernie star in…

Share this:.

• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)

Digital Replica Edition

• Real Estate

Airlines | Mascots Dinger, Rocky and Bernie star in Southwest Airlines’ “Big Flex” marketing push

Southwest campaign focuses on its “flexibility” on fee policies for checked bags, cancellations.

The Dallas-based airline kicked off a national  publicity push called “The Big Flex” last week and unveiled ads and signs Monday in Denver. The Denver-focused advertising features Dinger from the Colorado Rockies, Rocky from the Denver Nuggets and Bernie from the Colorado Avalanche.

In a bit of good timing, Southwest’s local campaign got underway as the Nuggets won the first-round series of the NBA playoffs and the Avalanche closed out the first round in the NHL to advance in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Video spots using team mascots were shot at Denver International Airport.

“They celebrate our sponsorship relationships with the Colorado Avalanche, Denver Nuggets and the Colorado Rockies, utilizing the mascots in humorous fashion,” said Jonathan Clarkson, vice president of marketing at Southwest.

Southwest’s Denver marketing campaign heading into the summer travel season includes a video that follows a traveler running into Rocky, Bernie the St. Bernard and Dinger on his way through DIA to make a flight. Each mascot also stars in individual spots.

The three hometown mascots’ roles in the “The Big Flex” campaign focus on such Southwest policies as each passenger getting to check two bags free of charge.

Other ads promote that Southwest doesn’t charge fees for changes or cancellations and the airline’s reward points don’t expire. In the case of cancellations, notice must be given at least 10 minutes before departure.

Clarkson said Southwest is intent on growing its share of travelers in Denver, home to the airline’s largest number of flights. The carrier has 316 daily flights to nearly 100 destinations and has 40 gates at the airport.

“Denver is a large employee base for us. We’ve got nearly 7,000 of our employees working there,” Clarkson said.

Southwest recently announced a handful of cutbacks to flights out of Denver. Starting in August, Southwest said it is ending flights to four airports and scaling back flights to Chicago O’Hare International Airport and Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport. The airline said the cuts are due in part to challenges caused by the delay of Boeing aircraft and below-projected first-quarter earnings this year.

Clarkson said the new marketing campaign “heavily leans into” what makes Southwest Airlines different. He said research shows that people want flexibility when they’re flying and become frustrated when things aren’t flexible or feel they are being “nickel and dimed.”

Southwest is reiterating its policies for existing customers and targeting younger travelers — millennials and Generation Z — who are starting to make up a bigger portion of the flying public.

The airline’s share of the Denver market in 2024 is 32.3%, second to United Airlines at 48.8%

Southwest is building a 100,000-square-foot provisioning and ground support equipment maintenance building and 30,000-square-foot cargo facility in Denver. Both are expected to be open in 2025.

• Report an Error
• Submit a News Tip

More in Airlines

Transportation | Southwest Airlines kills 3 nonstop routes from DIA, cuts back on flights to 2 other airports

Airlines | Denver International Airport’s TSA checkpoints will no longer be open 24/7

Restaurants, Food and Drink | Will DIA’s on-site brewery ever make beer again? The answer is up in the air.

Airlines | In Denver and across U.S., flight attendants pushing airlines for progress in contract negotiations

Money latest: Billie Eilish fans furious at 'outrageous' ticket prices

Billie Eilish fans are complaining about "outrageous" ticket prices for her Hit Me Hard and Soft tour. Read this and all the latest consumer and personal finance news below, plus leave a comment in the box.

Thursday 2 May 2024 20:01, UK

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

• OECD warns UK shouldn't cut interest rates yet
• UK ranks bottom in G7 economic growth forecast
• 'Outrageous': Billie Eilish fans complain about ticket prices
• Aldi's market share falls as people head back to traditional supermarkets (except one)
• New ISA rules were supposed to help savers - right now they've just made everything more complicated

Essential reads

• How to nab yourself a free upgrade on a flight
• You're probably washing and storing your clothes wrong. Here's what you should do instead
• Money Problem : 'Builders won't repair dodgy work - what are my rights?'
• '£2,000 landed in my account' - The people who say they're manifesting riches

Ask a question or make a comment

If you earn significantly more or less than your partner, how do you split payments for things like housing, food, household essentials, entertainment and holidays? 

Do you both pay equally, do you split costs according to income, or do you have another method? 

Get in touch with an outline of your situation in the  box above or:

• Email [email protected] with the subject line "Money blog"
• WhatsApp us  here .

Pint-sized bottles of wine will be allowed on UK shelves from autumn under new post-Brexit trade rules - although doubts have been raised over their demand.

Seven changes to pre-packaged wine sizes are due to come into force on 19 September.

The move to introduce the 568ml size of wine, to sit alongside 200ml and 500ml measures already available, was announced in December and hailed by ministers as a Brexit "freedom".

Pint bottles of Champagne were sold in the UK before Britain joined the European Common Market and were on shelves until 1973.

Read more here ...

JD Sports has told head office staff they must return to the office at least four days a week .

The new amendment to the hybrid working policy will be effective from 1 July and will impact employees at the retail chain's head office in Bury, Retail Gazette reports.

However, the chain will still allow flexibly depending on individual roles.

Pubs could stay open late during the Euros this summer, according to The Sun .

Home Secretary James Cleverly hinted he was looking into extending pub opening hours for the tournament on The Sun show Never Mind The Ballots.

He said: "I will certainly look into it."

We've been bringing you news of plenty of bank switch deals offering free cash these past few months, but Virgin Money has a different kind of incentive for switchers - a 12% interest rate. 

People who switch to its M Account, M Plus Account or Club M Account will be able to get bonus interest rates of 10% gross/10.47% AER (fixed). 

This is on top of the 2% gross/2.02% AER (variable) interest rate already offered on current account balances up to £1,000 - meaning customers can get an interest rate of 12%. 

No other savings accounts offer interest rates this high, and the bonus applies for a year.

TikTok will restore millions of songs to its app after settling a royalty dispute with Universal Music Group. 

Users had been unable to make videos featuring songs from the likes of Billie Eilish and Ariana Grande due to a row over how much TikTok was paying. 

The fight had led to Universal withdrawing music from some of the world's most famous singers. 

The dispute appears to have been settled as the companies announced "improved remuneration" for artists.

More than 10,500 black cab drivers in London have launched a £250m legal case against Uber. 

They accuse the app of breaking the capital's taxi booking rules and deliberately misleading authorities to secure a licence. 

Transport for London (TfL) rules state drivers cannot take bookings directly from customers and must instead use a centralised system. 

The drivers, who are being advised by law firm Mishcon de Reya, argue they have faced unfair competition from Uber and that it knowingly broke these rules. 

Uber has denied these allegations and said the claims are unfounded.

The company has faced numerous challenges in London, including refusals from TfL to renew its licence which were later successfully appealed. 

Billie Eilish fans are complaining about "outrageous" ticket prices for her Hit Me Hard and Soft tour.

The 22-year-old singer unveiled an 81-date tour programme this week, sending fans rushing to secure tickets.

But some expressed disbelief on social media at the prices.

"I know I moan about this all the time, but look at the price of Billie Eilish tickets," one fan called Marianne wrote on X, sharing a screenshot of seated tickets priced at £398.50. 

"Something seriously needs to be done about ticket prices, it's f*****g outrageous!" 

Another complained they had paid less for Taylor Swift's Eras Tour, which was also criticised for high ticket prices.

A fan called Liv tagged Eilish, Live Nation and Ticketmaster, writing: "Are you ok? £145 for standing tickets is atrocious."

Thousands of people who receive government benefits, including Universal Credit, will be paid as early as tomorrow.

This is because there's a bank holiday coming up on 6 May which will affect benefits paid by both the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and HMRC (they don't pay benefits on bank holidays).

A statement on the government website reads: "If your payment date is on a weekend or a bank holiday you'll usually be paid on the working day before. This may be different for tax credits and child benefit."

Here are the 11 different government benefits that are expected to be paid early:

• Universal credit;
• State Pension;
• Pension Credit;
• Disability Living Allowance;
• Attendance Allowance;
• Carer's Allowance;
• Child Benefit;
• Income Support;
• Jobseekers Allowance;
• Personal Independence Payment;
• Tax credits (such as Working Tax Credit)

Will your benefit payment change?

No, you'll be paid the same amount you usually receive.

Benefits are usually paid straight into your bank, building society or credit account.

Goldman Sachs is removing a cap on bonuses for London-based staff, paving the way for it to resume making multimillion pound payouts to its best-performing traders and dealmakers.

Sky News can exclusively reveal the Wall Street banking giant notified its UK employees today that it had decided to abolish the existing pay ratio imposed under European Union rules and which the government recently decided to scrap.

In a video message to staff, Richard Gnodde, chief executive of Goldman Sachs International, which comprises its operations outside the US, said it had decided to bring its remuneration policy in Britain in line with its operations elsewhere in the world.

"We are a global firm and to the extent possible we adopt a consistent global approach across everything we do," Mr Gnodde said in the message, which has been relayed to Sky News.

"The bonus cap rules were an important factor preventing us from being consistent in the area of compensation."

Aldi's market share has fallen - as people seemingly head back to traditional supermarkets for their shopping.

Aldi's share of the grocery market slipped from 10.8% to 10.4% in the 12 weeks to 20 April.

NIQ data shows sales rose just 1.3% in the period - for Morrisons it was 4.4%, Tesco 5.8% and Sainsbury's 6.6%.

Asda was the laggard with sales falling 0.9%.

Ocado is the fastest growing retailer with sales up 12%.

Aldi's rival discounter, Lidl, saw sales surge 9.5%, bumping its market share up to 8.2%. Media campaigns highlighting new ranges helped, NIQ said.

A Santander online outage is affecting thousands of UK customers.

Over 2,000 reports have been made on Downdetector - indicting the issue is widespread.

Customers have been met with messages like this...

Santander wrote on X: "We are aware some customers are experiencing issues accessing online services, we apologise for any inconvenience this has caused.

"We're working hard to resolve this as soon as possible."

Following on from our previous post, and the OECD also says the UK will grow more slowly next year than any other major advanced economy.

It puts this down to stealth taxes and high interest rates squeezing the economy.

The organisation, which is based in Paris, downgraded its forecasts for GDP to 0.4% this year and 1% in 2025.

In February, the UK had been in the middle of the rankings with forecast growth of 0.7% this year and 1.2% next.

The OECD pointed to the fact "tax receipts keep rising towards historic highs" - with National Insurance cuts not offsetting the additional burden Britons are feeling due to tax thresholds not rising along with inflation due to a government freeze.

Some good news is expected for UK workers as the OECD said there will be "stronger" wage growth when inflation is factored in against pay.

Be the first to get Breaking News

Install the Sky News app for free