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The Best Travel Backpacks for the Restless Adventurer

Bomber bags for air travel, daily commuting, or any adventure off the beaten path

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Finding a backpack to handle your on-the-go whims isn’t an easy feat. To keep your stuff organized, you need ample space with storage compartments. To ensure it stays secure, comfortable straps and reliable closure technology are a must. That said, your pack can’t be so bulky or heavy you’ll never use it. Here are the best travel backpacks of the year—all engineered to get you from point A to point B , worry free.

4 Best Travel Backpacks for Adventurers

Best crossover potential.

REI Co-op Flash 18L ($40)

Our minimalist testers were drawn to this year’s version of the Flash 18. The pack’s drawstring closure makes it easy to secure and get out the door in a jiff. Want to cut weight? Leave the chest strap and waist belt behind. Planning a multi-pitch climb ? With its streamlined profile, you’ve got an exceptional follow pack. It can also be flipped inside out to serve as a stuffsack in a pinch.

Best for Local Adventure

Outdoor Research Field Explorer 20L ($99)

Equipped with reflective webbing and 600-denier polyester, this was our favorite for tough commutes . We loved the padded sleeve inside the roll-top main compartment, which kept our laptop secure, and a second, zippered opening allowed us to slip it out with no fuss. External flaps and a zip pocket kept sundries organized, while the weather resistant body and padded shoulder straps played nicely on trails and trains.

Best for Long Days

Mammut Lithium 15L ($100)

The Lithium (and the women’s Lithia Speed 15) squeezes a stunning array of features into a modestly sized pack. Four small pockets (three with zippers) accommodate all manner of essentials, a rain cover tucks into its own dedicated space, and the padded hipbelt includes a phone-size pocket for quick access. In the main body, dividers keep crumbly snacks separate from your favorite puffy .

Best for Fast-and-Light Missions

CamelBak Cloud Walker 18L ($80)

Following a recent redesign, the classic Cloud Walker now offers a sleeker profile while still boasting 18 liters of storage space. CamelBak tapered the body, added breathability courtesy of a vented mesh back panel, and used recycled materials for that panel and the shoulder straps. To trim ounces for long outings, you can remove the waist strap. Slide the pack under your airplane seat, then throw it on for hours of comfortable trekking.

• Carry-On Bag
• Hiking and Backpacking

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Best Duffel Bags of 2024

From proven outdoor models with backpack straps to rolling designs for travel, below are the year's top duffels.

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Whether you’re traveling by air, driving up to a cabin for the weekend, or venturing across the world on an expedition, you’ll likely be using a duffel bag to get your gear from one place to the next. Duffels are popular among all kinds of travelers for good reason: they’re easy to load and carry, and many are built to take a beating. Below we break down the best duffels of 2024, including top travel, outdoor, and waterproof bags of both the standard and rolling varieties. For more background information, see our duffel bag comparison table and buying advice below the picks.  

Our Team's Duffel Bag Picks

• Best Overall Duffel Bag: Patagonia Black Hole 55
• Best Budget Duffel Bag: REI Co-op Roadtripper 100L
• Best Carry-On Duffel Bag: The North Face Base Camp Voyager Roller 21”
• Best Weekender Duffel Bag: Thule Aion Duffel Bag
• Best High-Capacity Wheeled Duffel: Osprey Sojourn Shuttle 100L
• Best Ultralight/Packable Duffel Bag: Osprey Ultralight Stuff Duffel
• Best Waterproof Duffel Bag: Yeti Panga 75

Best Overall Duffel Bag

1. patagonia black hole 55 ($169).

Patagonia’s Black Hole line helped make duffels cool, and we think the 55-liter version is the best all-around bag on the market. In 2024, all Black Holes are made with 100%-recycled materials, along with the premium build quality and trendy colorways that Patagonia is known for. The duffel is beautifully constructed from end to end, and you get multiple color options from simple black to phosphorus green. It’s remarkably tough, too: The fabric is burly 900-denier ripstop nylon with a beefy TPU finish for water resistance (note: in the latest version, this laminate is now fully recycled and has a matte look). This duffel is not waterproof like the Yeti and SealLine models below, but it should keep your gear dry in light to moderate moisture just fine.

We've been using the same Black Hole Duffel for almost ten years now and it's still going strong, despite being packed with sharp climbing gear and shlepped to all corners of the world (by plane, train, horse, and snowmobile). In terms of features and carrying comfort, you get a multitude of ways to grab and carry the duffel: The removable backpack straps are more comfortable and functional than most, and the bag comes with reinforced haul handles and webbing loops for carrying by hand. Keep in mind that this duffel does not have a particularly rigid structure (only the base is lightly padded), so it doesn’t offer a ton in the way of protection for your fragile items. Finally, Patagonia’s Black Hole line also includes a variety of versions (we love the 70L for expedition use and the 40L as a carry-on), including smaller travel packs and wheeled duffels. See the Patagonia Black Hole 55

Best Budget Duffel Bag

2. rei co-op roadtripper 100l ($70).

If you’re in the market for basic storage and protection for your gear, the REI Co-op Roadtripper is one of the best values on this list. At just $70, this bag is made from burly recycled polyester and sports a large detachable shoulder strap and handles (no backpack-style straps here, which is notable for those who plan on carrying their bag long distances). We also love the minimal weight, which at just 1 pound 6 ounces is one of the lightest duffels here.

Who is the REI Roadtripper Duffel best for? It makes a great gear hauler for those who need space and protection without the bells and whistles. We’ve used the 100-liter version on a number of big trips including all the way down to Patagonia (four flights) and came away impressed. The bag is well-built, functional, and has withstood quite bit of use and abuse. At the same time, it’s not waterproof (or even highly water-resistant) and definitely not a fully featured bag for travel. If you want more protection and conveniences like internal storage, side compartments, and backpack straps, we’d recommend the Patagonia Black Hole above instead. See the REI Co-op Roadtripper 100L

Best Carry-On Duffel Bag

3. the north face base camp voyager roller 21” ($240).

For frequent travelers, there is a lot to be said for the convenience of a wheeled duffel, especially one that can be used as a carry-on. At 40 liters and with dimensions that meet size restrictions for most airlines, the TNF Base Camp Voyager Roller is a great option for air travelers who don’t pack the kitchen sink. The wheels are large yet smooth and functional over a variety of surfaces, and equally at home on the dirt roads of a far-flung village as in the airport. What’s more, the rigid internal frame and strong plastic handles (one telescoping) are durable enough to take a beating, whether you’re lifting the duffel, rolling it over cobblestones, or tossing it into the back of a truck. And with a PFC-free DWR finish, the Base Camp Voyager will keep your gear dry in the process.

What the Base Camp Voyager Roller is not, however, is a fully featured piece of luggage for business travelers. It lacks the sleek look and organizational compartments of more typical roller bags, with only one internal mesh pocket, a laptop sleeve, and a small external zip pocket. And at $240, you’ll pay a premium for the durable construction and wheeled design. For $40 less, the Osprey Daylite Carry-On 40 offers better organization, but its sophisticated appearance might not appeal to those looking for a true duffel design. In the end, the Base Camp Voyager Roller is a great combination of durability, functionality, and outdoor style. For those who want more space, TNF also makes a 29-inch version that can accommodate more than 90 liters' worth of gear. See The North Face Base Camp Voyager Roller 21"

Best Weekender Duffel Bag

4. thule aion duffel bag ($190).

Many of the duffels here are designed for expedition use or toting a week’s worth of gear (or more), but the reality is that most travels take place over the weekend. A good weekender bag can hold around 35 liters’ worth of clothing and personal supplies, meets carry-on requirements, and features a range of internal and external pockets to help you stay organized. Within this category, the Thule Aion is our top pick and gets high marks for style too, with a classy aesthetic that looks the part in both urban and outdoor environments. The 35-liter bag is also decently durable, with a waxed 600-denier polyester canvas outer that’s abrasion-resistant and can fend off light moisture.

In addition to its good looks and build quality, the Thule Aion is high on organization with two separate internal compartments (great for separating clean and dirty clothes), a laptop sleeve and internal zippered pocket, and external stretch and zippered stashes beside the front zip. Portability is also good with two carry handles, a padded (and removable) shoulder strap, and a pass-through sleeve for securing to a roller bag. Added up, the Aion offers similar functionality as a travel backpack but in duffel bag form, which is great for those looking for a cleaner, more streamlined look. At $190, it’s more expensive than most bags here of similar size, but the added features and sleek appearance do help justify the added cost.  See the Thule Aion Duffel Bag

Best High-Capacity Wheeled Duffel

5. osprey sojourn shuttle 100l ($395).

For travelers torn between a standard duffel and traditional wheeled luggage, the recently updated Osprey Sojourn Shuttle (previously just the “Shuttle”) may be exactly what you’re looking for. This high-end duffel is extremely roomy, durable, and comes with tons of organization. Time and time again, we’ve loaded an entire vacation’s worth of clothing and gear into the Osprey with ease. Unlike cheaper wheeled duffels that have a tendency to fall over when full and upright, it maintains its stability nicely, and the larger-than-average wheels get the job done on uneven surfaces like cobblestones and gravel roads. And all of the other features are there, from external compression straps to tighten down your load to a separate lower compartment for wet gear.

The major shortcomings of the Osprey Sojourn Shuttle are simply trade-offs inherent to the roller design. First, you won’t be throwing this duffel over your shoulder and strolling through the airport or walking through a major city. It’s heavy at over 8 pounds empty and must be transported almost exclusively on wheels. In addition, when packed to the brim, you may find yourself pushing the standard 50-pound checked baggage limit—particularly if you go with the 130-liter version (we’ve cut it close with the 100L on occasion). Finally, at $395, the Sojourn is pricey—even within Osprey’s lineup, you can save with the simplified Daylite Wheeled Duffel 85 ($240) and more durable Transporter Wheeled Duffel 90 ($340). But for a premium roller duffel from a brand known for its high-quality, durable offerings, look no further than the Sojourn Shuttle. See the Osprey Sojourn Shuttle 100L

Best Ultralight/Packable Duffel Bag

6. osprey ultralight stuff duffel ($45).

Not everyone needs their duffel bag to pack down small, but in certain situations, it can be a really nice feature to have. Perhaps you’re low on storage space, headed out on an expedition where every inch and ounce count, or simply need to bring along an extra duffel for the souvenirs you plan to pick up during your travels. Regardless of the reason, it’s hard to beat the utility of an ultra-packable design, and Osprey’s 30-liter Ultralight Stuff Duffel is one of our favorite options. Clocking in at just 7.1 ounces and packing down smaller than a 1-liter water bottle in its integrated pocket, the aptly named Ultralight Stuff is far and away the most streamlined option here. For just $45, it’s almost a no-brainer whether you’re using it as your primary bag or a backup.

We love the versatility of the Osprey for space- and weight-conscious situations, but keep in mind that this isn’t your standard travel duffel. With a thin nylon construction and small 30-liter capacity, it won’t hold up to long-term abuse, keep your gear dry, or shuttle much more than a well-organized overnight kit. But it’s fully functional for the right application with a padded shoulder strap, accessory pocket, and smooth-running zippers.  See the Osprey Ultralight Stuff Duffel

Best Waterproof Duffel Bag

7. yeti panga 75 ($350).

Osprey is an industry leader in backpacking packs, so it should come as no surprise that their Transporter toes the line between backpack and duffel better than most. With padded straps and an adjustable sternum strap designed with carrying comfort in mind, the Transporter is a great option for travelers who need to cover distance with their duffel. In terms of features, a zippered pocket at one end is great for storing important items like travel documents and charging cables, and you get a wide U-shaped opening along with an interior mesh pocket, deployable rain flap, and straps to keep items in place as you walk. Added up, the Transporter is one of our favorite duffels for trips that start at the airport and take you to seriously adventurous locales.

Coming in at $180 for the 65-liter version, the Osprey Transporter is a similar bang for your buck as the Patagonia Black Hole above and a touch more expensive than The North Face's Base Camp below. Durability-wise, its 900-denier recycled polyester is on par with that of the Black Hole (the TNF is a bit more robust at 1000D), and our duffel shows no real signs of wear after being thrown around on a month-long trip to Nepal. The lack of an over-the-shoulder strap is a bit of an inconvenience, but you do get a functional carry handle along with Osprey’s best-in-class backpack carry. All told, if you’re looking for the carrying comfort of a premium pack alongside the convenience of a duffel, the Transporter should be near the top of your list. And for those who spend a lot of time around water, Osprey also makes the Transporter Waterproof Duffel , which is available in 40-, 70-, and 100-liter capacities and offers an impressive IPX7 rating. See the Osprey Transporter 65

9. Mountain Hardwear Expedition Duffel 100 ($280)

For climbers embarking on long journeys into the greater ranges, it doesn’t get much better than the Mountain Hardwear Expedition. This duffel is purpose built for hard work, with water-resistant 840-denier ballistic nylon in the body and a burly 1000-denier base lined with foam for both structure and protection. A wrap-around daisy chain allows you to lash it down in endless configurations, whether you’re headed to basecamp with the help of a mule, truck, or boat. And the Expedition’s most unique element is its massive D-zip opening, which extends via wings on each end and even folds all the way open for great basecamp organization (complete with internal tote bag-style handles). 

For such a utilitarian duffel, the Expedition packs in a surprising number of organizational features. You get a handy internal compression system that can secure all or some of your load, along with four small zip pockets (two internal, two external). And because we’re all familiar with wrestling the zipper closed on an over-full duffel, many will appreciate the integrated top compression strap that cinches the sides together and reduces zipper strain. Finally, like most designs here, the Expedition includes backpack straps, which also serve as a carry handle by way of integrated Velcro patches. The technical style, oversized capacities, and price tag will turn away most casual users, but for demanding expeditions, the Expedition is a great tool for the job. See the Mountain Hardwear Expedition Duffel 100

10. Gregory Supply 90 ($120)

We really like what Gregory has done with their Supply Duffel. Updated last year, this bag simply screams “function,” with a durable 600-denier polyester body and base, burly #10 YKK zipper and oversized T-Grip pull, and a price tag that beats out most duffels here. In fact, at just $120 for the 90-liter version, the Supply is still considerably cheaper than many 60-liter models on our list. For travel and outdoor applications like camping, ski trips, and even expeditions, this is a durable and high-capacity duffel that checks most of the boxes. 

But with its function-first attitude, the Gregory Supply isn’t for everyone. While you do get tuckaway backpack straps and one external pocket, it lacks the bells and whistles we see in much of the competition, including a U-shaped top zip and dirty-laundry compartment. We’ve come to value the large top access of a model like the Black Hole when we’re living out of a duffel, but the simple entry of the Gregory is sufficient for most uses. In the end, as long as you’re aware of the trade-offs, the Supply is a really nice option to have that will save you some money without making many compromises in terms of durability. See the Gregory Supply 90

11. The North Face Base Camp Medium ($149)

First released in 1986, the Base Camp is a classic offering from The North Face and a direct competitor to our top-ranked Patagonia Black Hole above. It’s similarly tough and water-resistant, offers easy access to the inside, and can be carried as a backpack, which we love. Both bags offer comparable organization pockets, but the Base Camp’s medium and large models add an exterior compartment on one end that allows you to separate dirty clothes and shoes. The Base Camp comes in more colors and designs than we can count, and is available in capacities ranging from 31 liters (XS) to a whopping 150 liters (XXL). For everything from a carry-on to an expedition workhorse, this is one of the most popular duffels on the market year after year.

Although we do like the Base Camp line and have used them for years, we prefer the Black Hole for a few reasons. First, the outer fabric on The North Face shows scuff marks more easily than its Patagonia counterpart. Second, at 3 pounds 8 ounces, the TNF is nearly a pound heavier. Finally, we found the backpack straps on the Base Camp to be slightly more difficult to detach than those on the Black Hole, making your airport check-in a bit more frantic. But for a reliable all-around duffel and more versatility in terms of size and colors, the Base Camp is a solid choice. And TNF also offers the Base Camp Voyager (in 32, 42, and 62L versions), which features a more modern design, lighter materials, and improved organization.  See the North Face Base Camp Medium

12. Black Diamond Stonehauler 60L ($190)

Relatively new to the scene is Black Diamond’s Stonehauler, which offers a climber’s take on the classic outdoor duffel. Building off popular designs like the Patagonia Black Hole and TNF Basecamp, Black Diamond placed 5-millimeter closed cell foam into the Stonehauler’s walls to guard against sharp gear like ice tools and climbing cams (a nice touch, as our cams have dug a hole in the base of our Black Hole). They also added on a 2-kilonewton haul loop for extra assurance when securing your gear to a mule or truck (heck, you could even haul the duffel up El Cap). Tack on a rugged 600- by 1500-denier body fabric and reinforced ends, and the Stonehauler is impressively durable and ready for all the rigors of your next expedition.

We’re impressed with Black Diamond’s design and think the Stonehauler makes a great fit for climbing, but the duffel risks being overkill for the majority of people and uses. Most travelers don’t need a haul loop or padded side walls, especially when the added tech results in a higher price (the 60L Stonehauler is $41 more than the TNF Base Camp 71L, for example). Further, we’re a bit miffed by the design, which places more durable fabric on the ends of the bag but not on the base. But BD does add some nice travel features with three zippered pockets, an internal laundry bag and compression straps, and removable shoulder straps. And you can upgrade to their Pro models (30 and 45L), which feature a padded laptop sleeve. See the Black Diamond Stonehauler 60L

13. Eagle Creek Migrate 60L ($129)

The Eagle Creek Migrate 60L is a nice option for travelers looking for a durable hauler with an assortment of carry options. It’s one of the more affordable duffels on the market at just $129 for the 60-liter version, and offers no shortage of bells and whistles with both tote and haul handles, glove-friendly zipper pulls, lockable main zips, an external zip pocket, and the option for both over-the-shoulder and backpack carry. What’s more, the main fabric is fairly robust (900D) and dirt-resistant, while the seamless bathtub base (1680D) will keep your gear dry even on wet ground. It all adds up to one of the best values out there and a great duffel from a respected travel luggage company.

All that said, the Migrate falls short of the more premium options above in one main way: access. Eagle Creek opted for a straight zip instead of the U-shaped lid of many duffels here (like the Black Hole above), meaning the Migrate is a lot harder to live out of and keep organized. But on the bright side, the simplified build does result in a lower price tag, and you get 5 extra liters of space if you leave the side buckles undone. And we’ve gotta give props to Eagle Creek for their efforts toward sustainability: The Migrate is made with bluesign-approved materials and recycled plastics. In addition to the standard version here, it also comes as a wheeled duffel in 110- and 130-liter capacities. See the Eagle Creek Migrate 60L

14. Gregory Alpaca 60 ($160)

Updated last year, the Gregory Alpaca is a durable and water-resistant duffel that checks all the boxes for rigorous outdoor use. Like the Black Hole above, it has a large U-shaped opening, boasts padded and removable backpack straps, and is made with a durable 900-denier ripstop polyester with a TPU coating for water resistance. Throw in storm flaps over the top zipper, an expandable end pocket for dirty laundry, internal mesh pockets, and an included packing cube that pulls double duty as a stuff sack, and the Alpaca strikes us as another thoughtfully built and well-equipped outdoor/travel duffel.

The Alpaca is a direct competitor to the Black Hole, and there’s certainly a lot to like about the design. The 60-liter version is about $10 cheaper than Patagonia’s 55-liter duffel, the packing cube is a nice addition (similar designs will run you $20 to $30), and the oversized end pocket has a lot of utility compared to the Black Hole’s smaller side pocket. But Gregory can’t quite match the brand cachet of Patagonia, and you only get a choice between three colors (compared to the Black Hole’s nine). In the end, both are high-quality outdoor duffels from trusted brands—built to withstand air travel, far-flung expeditions, and everything in between. See the Gregory Alpaca 60

15. Cotopaxi Allpa 70L ($200)

Cotopaxi has carved out a corner of the market with their spunky outdoor and travel gear, epitomized by fun colorblocking and sustainably sourced materials. The Allpa Duo 70L here is their largest and most functional duffel, great for international flights and road trips alike. Similar to the Black Hole, the Allpa features durable materials and large U-shaped access to the main compartment. But it tacks on a few more features, including a separate laundry compartment with mesh pocket (we’ve found this incredibly useful) and three zippered accessory pockets on the exterior (the Black Hole has just one). We also appreciate the Cotopaxi’s convenient carry-handle stash pockets, which get them out of the way when not in use.

At $200 for the 70-liter version, the Allpa is about the same price as the Black Hole 70, and offers an extra dose of convenience with its additional features. But we do have a major gripe with its design: The duffel does not include buckles on the backpack straps, meaning you’ll have to unthread the webbing for unhindered access to the main compartment. But there’s still a lot to like about the duffel, especially for fans of Cotopaxi’s design aesthetic. The Allpa duffel also comes in a 50-liter version, and the Allpa collection also features a full lineup of travel packs, hip packs, and gear hauler totes.  See the Cotopaxi Allpa 70L

16. REI Co-op Big Haul 60 Recycled ($139)

We know the competition is stiff in this category, including popular and proven bags like the Patagonia Black Hole and The North Face Base Camp above. But the second REI duffel to make our list wins out in one important category: price. For $139, the Big Haul 60 is another tough and versatile option with a healthy array of bells and whistles. You get solid weather resistance, comfortable backpack straps, a number of handles for easy grabbing, and decent organization on the inside in the form of mesh pockets. The 60-liter duffel included here likely can be used as a carry-on provided it’s not stuffed to the gills, or you can play it safe and opt for the 40-liter version for $119. 

Given that the REI Co-op Big Haul 60 is a strong value, why is it included toward the bottom of this list? From our experience, the build quality isn’t quite up to Patagonia standards, and the REI doesn’t have that sleek, high-end look either. On the other hand, the Big Haul has a thicker (1680D) fabric around the bottom to prevent wear and tear (and a thinner 400D nylon around the top), many of the same features, and should get the job done for most people and uses. What’s more, it's now made with recycled fabric, which is a big win for everyone. All in all, it’s another quality product from REI’s in-house line at an attractive price point. And the Co-op also makes the Big Haul Recycled in a rolling version, which comes in both 30 and 34-inch sizes ($279 and $299, respectively). See the REI Co-op Big Haul 60 Recycled

17. Mountain Hardwear Camp 4 65 ($140)

Mountain Hardwear offers some of the most serious outdoor duffels on the market, from the high-capacity Expedition above to the Camp 4 here. Riffing off the design of a haul bag, the Camp 4 has a cylindrical shape that lies on its side when open but can stand up on its own when full. In our opinion this is more of a stylistic feature than anything (climbers will love the vibe), but it might come in handy while staging duffels for transport—and we do love the large external zip pocket at the top for staying organized. Finally, one large grab handle on each side are great for the duffel shuffle, and the backpack straps remove when not in use.

But despite its haul-bag aesthetic, the Camp 4 is not particularly robust compared to most duffels here. The relatively thin 420-denier nylon will hold up to a lot of abuse, but we don’t recommend actually trying to haul the bag up an abrasive rock face (the similarly minded Black Diamond Stonehauler above features a much thicker 600x1500D shell). On the other hand, we do appreciate the Camp 4’s generous reinforcements around the edges, which is where duffels tend to collect wear, and its relatively compact packed size will come in handy for some. In the end, the Mountain Hardwear is a great combination of style and function for $50 less than the Stonehauler 60, making it another nice option for those packing for their next adventure. See the Mountain Hardwear Camp 4 65

18. Backcountry All Around 60L ($139)

The All Around is Backcountry’s addition to the outdoor duffel market and a continuation of their growing line of in-house gear. Similar to the Patagonia Black Hole and The North Face Base Camp above, it boasts a U-shaped zipper opening, several pockets for organization, and the option of being worn as a backpack. And like the Base Camp, an external zipper on one end opens to a large secondary compartment, great for separating dirty laundry or shoes. And with a recent redesign, the All Around now includes a padded base for added structure and protection.

Backcountry didn’t necessarily do anything new in the All Around, but they did make a quality bag at a respectable price point. Stacked up against our top-ranked Black Hole, it lags behind in durability (300D vs. 900D polyester) and capacity options, and you’ll either love or hate the bold goat logo on one end. And while some of Patagonia’s colorways are more subtle or sophisticated (call it what you will), Backcountry has taken a page out of Cotopaxi’s book with their loud, colorblocked designs. The All Around will save you $30 compared to the Black Hole 55 (and give you 5L more space), but we recommend that consistent travelers stick with the tried-and-true Patagonia. See the Backcountry All Around 60L

  19. SealLine WideMouth Duffel 70L ($165)

Along with the Yeti Panga, SealLine’s WideMouth is the only other fully waterproof duffel on this list. These two bags are quite different, however: With a much thinner nylon build, the SealLine has a significantly lower weight and profile than the Yeti, which is great when space is at a premium. Further, it features a roll-top design instead of the Panga’s burly waterproof zipper, which doesn’t offer quite the same level of protection, but it does pack down nicely. Perhaps most importantly, the WideMouth is roughly one-third the price of the Panga and more than enough duffel for most people. 

Why do we have the SealLine ranked here? The Yeti has more structure and is much easier to pack, not to mention the fully waterproof zipper system offers more assurance (and less room for user error) than the WideMouth’s roll-top seal. Moreover, the Yeti has backpack straps and therefore is easier to carry. The cherry on top: The extra thickness of the Yeti means that it’s much more durable and abrasion resistant in the long term. But for those looking for a waterproof duffel without breaking the bank, the WideMouth is a nice option. And SealLine also makes the Pro Zip Duffel , which features a waterproof main zipper and retails for $315 for the 70-liter capacity. See the SealLine WideMouth Duffel

Duffel Bag Comparison Table

Duffel bag buying advice, duffel bag categories: travel, outdoor, waterproof, duffel bag capacity, roller duffel bags.

• Main Compartment
• External Pockets
• Compression Straps
• Daisy Chains (Lash Points)
• Carrying Options
• Durability (Denier)

Water Resistance

• Packability  

Travel Duffels Whether you’re packing for a weekend getaway, flying home for the holidays, or going to the gym, travel duffels offer a durable way to transport items from Point A to B. These bags range from minimally featured duffels—often just sporting hand carry straps and shoulder straps for short commutes—to roller bags (like the Osprey Sojourn Shuttle 100L ) that are great for carting around heavy loads. Robust fabrics and rugged wheels set the travel bags in this article apart from the standard suitcases and rollers you often see at the airport. That said, these bags lack the focus on water-resistance that we see in outdoor duffels, usually forgoing storm flaps over the zippers and DWR coating. But for travelers who don’t plan on subjecting their bags to the elements, travel duffels are a nice mix of durability, convenience, and simplicity.

Outdoor Duffels Many duffels on this list are made by big outdoor brands like Patagonia, The North Face, Osprey, and Black Diamond. Outdoor use can vary substantially, from throwing your bag in the back of a truck to hardcore expeditions. In this category, look for robust fabrics with DWR coating, water-resistant zippers or storm-flaps, comfortable backpack carrying straps, lash points, and handles for grabbing the bag from multiple angles. And versatility is a notable upside of outdoor duffels: We’ll often use them for basic travel purposes as well, especially those with multiple carrying options and convenient organizational features like U-shaped openings and multiple pockets or compartments. For example, the Patagonia Black Hole , our top pick, can be used from anything from serious outdoor exploration to standard air travel (and it looks the part for both). 

Waterproof Duffels Most duffels here are highly water-resistant, meaning they're able to keep out light to moderate rain and snow. But a small percentage of users, including rafters, fishermen and women, and winter adventurers, need a fully waterproof duffel. The market is limited, but there are a few bags that offer a high level of waterproofing, including the Yeti Panga, SealLine WideMouth, Osprey Transporter Waterproof , and NRS High Roll Duffel Dry Bag. With the help of thick waterproof fabrics, watertight zippers, and roll tops, these bags are designed to keep your gear dry on wet boat decks, in inclement weather, and during quick dunks in the water (the Osprey even has an IPX7 rating, meaning it'll keep water out when submerged in 1 meter of water for 30 minutes). Given their overbuilt nature, we wouldn’t want a waterproof duffel for anything but the harshest and wettest of environments: They’re simply too heavy, expensive, and technically oriented (minimal organization and straps) for everyday use. 

Large: 75+ liters Duffels that are 75 liters or larger are heavy haulers for longer trips, multiple people, and outdoor equipment (boots, backpacks, tents, etc.). When we fly to go backpacking, we love our 100-liter REI Co-op Roadtripper Duffel : It can fit multiple empty backpacks, bulky footwear, and all of our extras. It’s worth noting that these bags can get heavy fast depending on what you stow inside of them, so keep an eye out for total weight as you’re packing. Clothing and most regular items should keep you below the 50-pound checked bag limit, but if you’re packing anything particularly heavy, it can be an issue. And for serious outdoor and expedition use, duffels like The North Face Base Camp are made all the way up to 150 liters.

The roller duffel is one of those “have your cake and eat it too” scenarios for travelers wanting the ease of wheeling their bag with the packing convenience of a duffel. We’ll start by noting that roller duffels are quite popular, and particularly for air travel. You simply take the bag out of your car, wheel it to check-in (or your gate if it’s a carry-on), and you’re off. Roller duffels are ideal for those who don’t want to carry their bag on their back or shoulder, and some of the smaller versions (in the 40-liter range and under) are carry-on compatible.

But roller duffels do have their limitations. First, rarely do roller duffels come with anything more than carry handles (read: no backpack straps), making them difficult to transport in areas without sufficient rolling surfaces. Second, cheaper or ultralight duffels have a tendency to fall over when full, which is something to be aware of when making a purchase (heavier models like the Osprey Sojourn Shuttle do not fall over, which makes them worth the extra cost in our opinion). Finally, roller duffels inherently have more breakable parts. Some duffels have replaceable wheels but many don’t, which is a quick way to lose all of that easy transport functionality.

For travel scenarios where you’ll be moving around a lot—think backpacking through Europe—we prefer non-roller duffels. They’re easy to grab and throw on your back, and you don’t have to worry about the surface (if you’ve ever tried taking a roller duffel down a cobblestone street, you know what we’re talking about). If you’re primarily an air traveler and moving your bag long distances by vehicle, a roller duffel is a fine option, and you do get the added benefit of one hard side for protecting your belongings. For the purposes of this article and the picks above, we’ve included a handful of our favorite roller models, and some of the standard designs have wheeled versions available.

  Pockets and Organization

Main Compartment Hands down, the easiest duffels to pack, unpack, and rummage around in are those with a large, U-shaped opening. Duffels such as the Osprey Transporter 65 feature this design: A zippered flap extends around three of the four sides of the top of the duffel and opens to reveal most of the contents. These bags provide easy access whether in a hotel, tent, or on the road. Other bags open in a more traditional style, with one zipper that extends across the top of the bag. With a smaller opening, access to the contents is more limited, and especially when full (this means more rummaging and disorganization). If you’re looking to prioritize convenience above all else, large roller duffels like the Osprey Sojourn Shuttle offer the most rigid structure and largest opening for packing and unpacking.

External Pockets When choosing a duffel, consider how much you’ll want access to your belongings as you travel. The most streamlined models feature one large compartment with no internal organization (the REI Co-op Roadtripper, for example), while more fully featured designs include handy external pockets for small items or padded compartments for a tablet or computer. Some duffel bags are even made with specific gear organization in mind, such as the Thule Bike Gear Locker Duffel (with dedicated pockets for shoes and a helmet) and the Thule RoundTrip Snowsports Duffel, which features a fleece-lined goggle pocket and boot compartments on each end. For travelers, we think that at least one external pocket is nice to separate out your smaller essentials. 

Compression Straps Compression straps, both internal and external, can help make a duffel’s load more compact. Internal straps remove strain from the zipper and compress your gear inside the duffel to keep it from shifting during transit. We see these on models like the Patagonia Black Hole and Mountain Hardwear Expedition Duffel . External compression straps can be on the ends or sides (such as with The North Face Base Camp) and tighten the duffel after the zipper has been shut. External straps are especially useful on large duffels that might not be stuffed to capacity, and they help make your bag less unruly for travel. Additionally, if you plan on frequently carrying your duffel as a backpack, we encourage you to consider a model with compression straps—it makes the whole operation a lot more comfortable.

Daisy Chains (Lash Points) If you’re using your duffel primarily to transport your belongings via plane, train, or automobile, you’re probably wondering why you might need the daisy chains lining the exterior. However, put your pack in a raft, saddle it to a mule, or strap it to the roof of your van, and you’ll wonder how you ever got by without them. Not all duffels come with daisy chains (a.k.a. lash points) and some have more than others. If you know that you’ll need to secure your duffel for a wild ride, definitely be on the lookout for a bag that sports plenty of reinforced lash points. The most outdoorsy the bag, the more likely it is to be lined with daisy chains.

Carrying Options: Backpack Straps, Shoulder Straps, Handles

We’ve all been there: clumsily dragging our bag across the airport lobby and cursing ourselves for not purchasing something with wheels (or a travel backpack ). And if you’re looking for a bag in the 60-liter range or larger, know that when it gets full, it’s going to be heavy . The good news is that duffel manufacturers have gotten creative with designing bags that can be carried in a multitude of ways. Below are the main carrying options, and some fully featured bags offer all four. Backpack Straps For those who are able to throw their bag over their back and walk with it, backpack straps are our preferred carrying method. Many of the high-end bags on this list have backpack straps that are lightly padded and often removable. One duffel in particular, the Osprey Transporter , has many similarities to an actual backpack and is great for those planning to cover longer distances. Keep in mind that carrying comfort does vary, which is one reason why some bags are ranked higher than others. When not in use, many backpack straps simply detach for storage in the main compartment (this keeps them out of airport conveyor belts). Sometimes, simply tightening down the straps flush to the bag can be enough.

Shoulder Straps Though less comfortable than backpack straps over extended periods, a single shoulder strap is a quick way to carry your duffel short distances. In particular, we like shoulder straps on smaller duffels that don’t weigh a ton (they can start to get uncomfortable around the popular 60-liter range). Not all duffel bags come with shoulder straps, but we see them frequently on smaller capacity, travel-specific bags. Shoulder straps usually are removable, allowing you to streamline your duffel for transport. Carry Handles Most duffels have carry handles of some sort, whether they’re dedicated straps or a simple padded handle connecting the backpack straps to each other. Carry handles are useful for picking up a bag and moving it a short distance, and they’re great for carrying small capacity bags in one hand. Some duffels like the Osprey Transporter omit carry handles altogether­ in favor of shoulder and backpack straps. This can make sense for big, heavy bags, but we still prefer having the option.

Grab Handles Grab handles often are located on the ends or sides of a bag and sit close to the surface. Similar to carry handles, they are used to quickly lift or slide a duffel. Having a grab handle on each side is convenient when moving the bag around (think about grabbing it from the overhead bin of an airplane or the storage compartment on the bottom of a bus). We love grab handles: They are one the reasons that duffels are so versatile and easy to move around.

  Durability (Denier)

We reference durability frequently in this article—everyone wants their investment to last. The most common way of measuring fabric strength is denier (D), and the higher the rating, the tougher the fabric will be. All deniers are not created equal, but this gives you a general idea of how two duffels stack up to each other in terms of toughness. When available, we’ve included the denier rating of each bag in our handy comparison table above, which range from 1000-denier for a bag like The North Face Base Camp down to 300-denier for the Backcountry All Around. It’s worth noting that the manufacturers sometimes provide two numbers, which refer to the different panels (usually the highest number is the bottom of the bag that is exposed to the ground, whereas the lower number are the sides and top). This number may not be the definitive factor in your buying decision, but it certainly can help tip the scales when choosing between two close competitors.  

Duffels advertised as “water-resistant” are designed to keep your belongings protected from light rain and soggy ground. These models often cover their durable ripstop fabric with a laminate that keeps moisture from soaking in (often a DWR treatment or something similar). A DWR treatment certainly is a nice feature for everyone using a duffel: The weather is unpredictable when traveling, you never know when your duffel might be sitting on the tarmac for a few extra minutes, and it’s super helpful for outdoor use. In addition, some bags have flaps covering the zippers, which can be a point of weakness. Water-resistant gear does have limitations: It should work well in light-to-moderate precipitation but eventually will soak through. 

As mentioned above, a few duffels on this list take it a step further. The Yeti Panga and SealLine WideMouth are both built with waterproof fabrics. With a fully waterproof zippered seal, the Yeti can even be submerged, and the SealLine's roll-top does a decent job as well (no guarantees, but your stuff should stay dry). On the other hand, most duffels with vinyl or laminate finishes (such as the Patagonia Black Hole) will keep your gear dry in a rainstorm, but their zippers and seams might leak with sustained exposure to moisture. All things considered, a waterproof duffel is essential for water sports but overkill for travelers who stick to land.  

Some travelers may not care about the weight of their duffel, but for others it’s a factor, and particularly with heavier rolling models. Most non-wheeled duffels weigh just a few pounds or less, which makes them easy to carry, throw in your car, and store when not in use. Rolling duffels, on the other hand, tend to get a bit heavy. For example, The North Face Base Camp Voyager Roller weighs 9 pounds 7 ounces empty for the 94-liter version, which already accounts for almost 20% of the standard 50-pound limit for checked bags. And the Osprey Sojourn Shuttle 100L weighs 8 pounds 9.6 ounces but has a larger capacity at 100 liters (and comes in a massive 130-liter version). We can tell you that a loaded Sojourn Shuttle with things like shoes can get awfully close to the 50 pounds—we’ve been in the high 40s on a number of occasions. It’s also worth noting that a 45-pound bag isn’t the easiest to get in and out of your car or up a flight of stairs.

Packability

Packability won't be high on the priority list for most travelers, but there are a few instances in which a streamlined duffel can come in handy. For those who anticipate coming home with more than they started—or vice versa—being able to stow an empty duffel in another bag is a great way to consolidate your load. A few of the picks above pack into a stuff pocket or included packing cube, including the REI Co-op Roadtripper 100 and Patagonia Black Hole 55. However, it's worth noting that these options are still quite bulky—if you need a more minimalist design, check out a model like the Osprey Ultralight Stuff Duffel . Ultra-packable duffels do come with their fair share of tradeoffs—including less durable fabrics, a floppy structure, and typically small capacities—so we only recommend them for those who specifically need the more streamlined design. Back to Our Top Duffel Bag Picks   Back to Our Duffel Bag Comparison Table

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The Best Luggage For An Adventure Traveler

The Best Luggage for an Adventure Traveler

Regardless of what kind of traveler a person is he or she most likely want to pack as much as possible in as few as one bag. This is often achievable if you're going a weekend trip , but what if your adventure, hopefully, lasts much longer ? Visit  one-of-a-kind attractions , incredible landscapes, vibrant cities and iconic landmarks without ever having to leave your favorite pair of shoes or jacket home because you don't have enough space.

Osprey Porter 46

The Osprey Porter 46 is a first-rate travel companion regardless of your adventure destination –in the mountains, at the beach the beach, or navigating the airport. The Porter has loads of features and pockets for whatever adventures you've got planned, according to Outdoor Gear Lab. It has padded sidewalls and suspension for backpack-style travel that disappears when checking bags, as well as a zippered laptop and tablet pocket.

Osprey OZONE 46L/22"

The exterior dimensions match the airline's maximum allowable size for carry-on luggage making this the optimal bag for adventure travelers who prefer airport efficiency. External and internal compression straps add extra stability when ferrying heavy loads. The OZONE 46L/22" has an injection molded high clearance ABS base with foot bar for durable backbone and large wheels with sealed bearings for a smooth ride. "This is the best carry-on piece that I have every owned!" one review on Amazon says.

Lowe Alpine Kulu

This modern backpacking hybrid is part travel luggage and part trekking backpack. It can easily be transformed to haul luggage for flights, buses, trains, yaks, camels and 4x4's. The Lowe Alpine Kulu has a simple design that allows you to stash the hipbelt on the side so your backpack is less likely to get damaged. The Travel Cover ensures the harness and other straps are also secure while travelling. There is also a spacer mesh and a die-cut foam back panel for ventilation.

Conductor Limited – 40L Duffle Bag

This water resistant carry-on size duffle with durable and lightweight outdoor materials has a lifetime warranty. The Conductor Limited keeps it all in a tow with the side zip pocket for your keys, phone and book. This is the bag you need if you carry many essentials such as registration papers, handheld VHF radio, life jackets, flares, first aid kit, etc. "Durable, well designed and made in the USA. What more could you want?" one person wrote on Amazon.

Lowe Alpine KLETTERSACK 30

The Klettersack is a heritage inspired 30-liter hiking pack. It is retro in design but ready for any modern day adventures. It features a top loading design with drawstring, big buckles, tough canvas fabric and leather trim detail. Inside you'll find an internal valuables pocket and a sleeve for either a laptop or a hydration pack.

Eagle Creek Expanse™ Drop Bottom Wheeled Duffel 32

The Drop Bottom Wheeled Duffel 32 was built tough to withstand anything your travels throw at it. The bag's design offers the flexibility to have one large compartment or use the large zip-away center divider to separate the interior into two large compartments. The bad weighs in at 129 liters of packing capacity making it the largest in the Expanse™ Collection.

Eagle Creek Expanse™ Convertible International Carry-On

This is a versatile carry-on that offers two ways to carry it – with zip away backpack straps and a padded hip belt for when you need to travel hands free, and wheels so you can roll it when it is convenient. The Convertible International Carry-On is made of Bi-Tech™ Armor Lite material that can withstand both urban and rural terrain. The fabric is designed to hide scuffs and stains.

Patagonia Black Hole™ Wheeled Duffel Bag 40L

Patagonia's smallest wheeled Black Hole™ duffel is carry-on approved and ready for on-the-go adventures. It features a burly polyester ripstop with highly weatherproof TPU laminate and a durable water repellent finish, a large opening to main compartment, zippered external side pocket, and mesh pockets in lid for smaller items. There are also two-position telescoping handle and reinforced haul handles.

Patagonia Lightweight Black Hole™ Duffel 45L

The Lightweight Black Hole™ Duffel 45L is the perfect midsized duffel that packs down small but deploys when needed. It held warm-weather clothes for 4 days, a pair of flip flops, a toiletry bag, 32 oz. water bottle, tablet (all shown in the pictures), and had extra room for a fleece, scarf, and small purse, according to a review on Rei.com. The design of the bag makes it easy to spot when collecting luggage off a bus or the baggage claim belt. "It went into the wilderness and returned in good shape," according to another review.

Patagonia Ascensionist Pack 40L

Simple, light, and relatively inexpensive, the Patagonia Ascensionist is a solid alpine climbing pack, according to Outdoor Gear Lab. It features lightweight, bomber, tear- and abrasion-resistant CORDURA® nylon/polyester ripstop, asymmetrical spindrift collar that opens wide for easy packing, drawcord that simultaneously cinches collar and closes lid for a secure seal, and high-density, foam back panel that gives pack structure and helps to support heavy loads, but can be removed for lightweight pursuits.

The North Face Rolling Thunder Wheeled Duffel - 22"

The North Face Rolling Thunder 22” wheeled duffel is designed to be very tough and it will haul your weekend gear wherever you go. The larger wheels and wheel wells work together to keep wheels clean for the best traction in all conditions. The perforated, exposed back panel reduces weight without sacrificing strength. "This bag makes airline travel much easier!" a review on the company website says. "Works perfectly for long trips or smaller business trips. Bag is durable which nice and has a waterproof shell," according to another review.

REI Co-op Big Haul Rolling Duffel - 30"

The Big Haul Rolling Duffel – 30" is the perfect size for a week-long trips, according to reviews. You can fit everything you need – several pairs of shoes, clothes, books, toiletries, etc. The bag features a solid bottom with the expandable sides. The two inside straps help secure everything inside. People love the storable of this rolling duffel. The internal mesh pockets add convenience and organization. The Daisy chain has lots of lash points for easy gear attachment.

North Face LONGHAUL 30”

The LONGHAUL 30"  will carry everything you need on long adventurous trips. The durably constructed, spacious, 79-liter rolling duffel hauls heavy loads without a problem because of its extendable luggage handle with side-release buttons and durable wheels. The design makes it a great option for travelers who want easy access to their main compartment without having to do a lot of rummaging around, according to Outdoor Gear Lab.

Oakley CARRY ON ROLLER

The Oakley CARRY ON ROLLER , made of 100 percent polyester, features a telescopic handle for easy maneuvering, top and side handle for versatile carrying, zip exterior pocket for quick-access storage, and zip main pocket with interior compartments to keep gear organized and secure. "I travel overseas about 25 times per year and this bag has been great and has held up to the terror that baggage handlers put on peoples things. Definitely recommend this product," a review on Amazon says.

Oakley FP 42L ROLLER

The premium design with a hard-sided bottom and PU coated ripstop material provides lasting durability on the FP 42L Roller . The bag features a split main opening and front pocket for easy access to your gear. The telescope hand and ergonomic hand grips offer a variety of comfortable carrying options, while the smooth-rolling wheels make your trip a walk in the park.

The Best Gear for Travel

By Wirecutter Staff

Traveling well can be one of life’s great pleasures, whether you’re alone or with family and friends.

But what does it mean to travel well? We’d say that along with traveling safely (of course), traveling well involves avoiding hassle, carrying a single bag (if possible), and bringing only the necessities.

“Traveling well is a fine balance between finding inspiration in the unknown while being grounded in something,” said Wirecutter founder Brian Lam. “Sometimes that is a memory of home, a family, a significant other, friends, etc. Sometimes it’s just the familiar, reliable stuff in your bag.”

Over the past nine years, we’ve spent hundreds of hours researching and testing dozens of products to find the most dependable items that will help you travel well. On top of that, we sought the advice and wisdom of Doug Dyment, author and creator of OneBag. As a traveling businessman and public speaker, he has logged millions of miles over the past few decades. We also ran our picks by travel-gear reviewer Eytan Levy, the Snarky Nomad .

And we relied heavily on the experiences of Wirecutter staff, an especially mobile group of individuals. Our staffers have worked remotely from every continent except Antarctica—the five most frequent flyers among us travel about half a million miles in any given (normal) year.

The research

Flying/riding, just in case, travel tips.

A well-packed bag is one that contains less than you think you need but everything you actually need. If possible, fitting everything into one carry-on and personal item will give you more freedom compared to checking a bag or two. You’ll be glad you did if (and when) things don’t go according to plan. Consider this example from OneBag’s Doug Dyment: “I’ve been in situations where I’ve landed in Chicago on my way to New York and everything was snowed in, no flights were flying anywhere, but I was able to rent a car or take a train whereas everyone whose bags were being held hostage by the airlines were simply stuck.” While carry-on-only isn’t feasible (or advisable) for every trip—especially extended business trips or weddings where you need multiple outfits to maintain appearances—if in doubt, it’s better to cut.

Carry-on backpack (non-roller)

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

A versatile small pack for a week or a weekend.

The Allpa’s clamshell design makes organizing your things simple. The strap design lets you easily wear this durable bag on your back or carry it in your hand while you’re on the move.

Buying Options

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

An easily customizable large bag for long trips and expensive gear.

This bag was built with photographers in mind, but most travelers will appreciate its easy accessibility and clever tuck-away straps, and the elegant way the bag expands and contracts depending on how much you’ve packed. The accessory cubes cost extra, though.

We spent six months testing 22 bags, and in the end we chose two as our top picks for travelers determined to never check luggage again: the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L (for most trips) and the larger Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L . Both bags are exemplary carry-on travel backpacks that are designed for comfort, durability, and organization.

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L features an easy-to-pack clamshell design and highly adjustable straps that make it a great all-around bag for any traveler who’s dedicated to packing light, or for a smaller person who wants less to carry. Handles on all four sides of this bag make it easy to grab no matter where you’ve stowed it, and the Allpa’s straps are contoured to comfortably fit people who have large or small chests. It’s not a specifically gendered design, but our female tester noticed the improvement right away.

The bag is protected by a full lifetime warranty and has the build quality to back that up. Its front panel is made of a waterproof, TPU-coated 1,000-denier polyester (a strong fabric covered in a flexible plastic coating), which means you can lay it on its back in a wet field or in gravel without worrying about moisture soaking through or jagged edges ripping the fabric. The rest of the paneling is made with 1,680-denier ballistic nylon, which feels similar to a strong canvas but with a more prominent weave. After four years of testing, this single backpack (plus a personal item to store under the seat) has replaced nearly every travel bag or piece of luggage that Kit Dillon, Wirecutter’s senior staff writer who covers luggage, uses.

One caveat: The Allpa has a minimal amount of administrative organization—places to keep pens and papers, spaces to hold tickets, and so forth—which is where the personal item comes in handy. As the name suggests, “personal items” are very, well, personal, and no one bag will work for all travelers; we offer a range of recommendations in our full guide to them .

The larger Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is the Swiss Army knife of backpacks: adjustable, customizable, and (if you spring for the extra cubes and organizers) an almost perfect system for a photographer or gearhead on the move. Most bags’ expanding mechanisms aren’t worth the extra zipper they’re built on, and they look about as attractive as a boiled ham splitting out of its plastic packaging. Not so with the Peak Design: It looks just as good fully packed at 45 liters as it does compressed to a 30-liter daypack. You can access the bag through a back panel, which doubles as a computer and tablet pouch, as well as through a front one, if you unzip the pass-through divider. You can also get into the main compartment via two wing-like trapezoidal flaps that run along each side of the pack. In its natural shape, the Travel Backpack holds 35 liters, but an expansion zipper lets the bag swell to 45 liters.

If you want to use the bag as a daypack, you fold in the top corners and snap them down, reducing the bag’s volume to a slim 30 liters. It still feels larger than a normal daypack, but we think that’s a small compromise for the ability to use one backpack as both your travel bag and your daily explorer. The bag itself consists of 400D nylon and polyester fabrics—it feels tough, but not as tough as the Cotopaxi Allpa. As for flaws, it is expensive, especially if you commit to the entire system of packing cubes and camera cubes . The adjustable design and multiple zippers do add complexity, and complexity adds potential weaknesses, though Peak Design covers all of its bags with a lifetime warranty.

Finding the right bag is a personal choice, and no single bag will appeal to everyone. That’s why we have picks in our full review of carry-on travel bags that can double as traveling offices , bags that are easy to carry while you’re walking long distances , and budget options for travelers who want to give the one-bag strategy a try.

Carry-on bag (rolling)

Travelpro Platinum Elite 21″ Carry-On Spinner

Great features, great value.

This spinner carry-on offers the best balance of size, value, reliability, and durability, with high-end details. It’s backed by a lifetime warranty.

Since 2015, we’ve researched several dozen suitcases and gone hands-on with the 47 most promising candidates in a variety of tests—including having active flight attendants test bags for us in a fake plane fuselage in their training facility. We determined that for most people the  Travelpro Platinum Elite 21″ Expandable Spinner  offers the best balance of features, durability, and price for most flyers who log less than 25,000 miles annually.

It features smooth-rolling, user-replaceable wheels; solid and comfortable, telescoping handles; and a hard-wearing nylon exterior propped up by a solid internal chassis. The Elite only improves on past iterations in the Platinum line by reducing the size of the stowed handle (which used to jut out about an inch) and adding a second zippered, exterior pocket for easy access on the go and a USB pass-through extension that lets you insert your own battery pack for charging your phone. And at 7.8 pounds when empty, this carry-on bag is about half a pound lighter than its predecessor. Compared with other bags in this price range, you also get surprisingly high-end components and a warranty that covers anything, even airline damage, for the life of the bag (as long as you register the suitcase within 120 days of purchase, which is easy to do on any smartphone).

Upgrade pick

Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential 22″ Carry-On Expandable Spinner

For frequent flyers.

If you fly more than 25,000 miles a year, invest in a bag with unique features, superior details, and plenty of expandable room. This manufacturer guarantees your satisfaction.

If you fly more than 25,000 miles annually and you’re willing to invest in a higher-quality product, we recommend the Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential 22-Inch Carry-On Expandable Spinner. It can fit more clothing than any bag we tested, thanks to a cavernous interior and clever expansion and compression system that can adjust to variable levels beyond open and shut. Wirecutter’s founder, Brian Lam, has put more than 150,000 miles on his so far, and it’s held up great. His only complaint is that longer pants will need an extra fold, or to be rolled. In taller bags, pants will only need to be folded over once.

Checked luggage

If you need to pack more stuff than a carry-on and a personal item can hold, our first piece of advice would be to reconsider whether you need that extra outfit “just in case.” But you’ll have times when you need to travel with several pairs of shoes, formalwear, a winter coat, special equipment (like diving or camping gear), or all of the above. In these cases, there’s no way to avoid checking a bag.

REI Co-op Ruckpack 60+ Recycled Travel Pack (Men’s)

The best travel backpack for people with longer torsos.

Thick padding and highly adjustable straps make this the most comfortable and easy-to-fit pack sized for people with longer torsos.

May be out of stock

REI Co-op Ruckpack 60+ Recycled Travel Pack (Women’s)

The best travel backpack for people with shorter torsos.

Thick padding and highly adjustable straps make this the most comfortable and easy-to-fit pack sized for people with shorter torsos.

If you’re going someplace where you’ll need to walk a lot (or if there’s dirt or cobblestone roads), we recommend a travel backpack. Specifically, the REI Co-op Ruckpack 60+ Recycled Travel Pack (Men’s) for men (and tall women) and the REI Co-op Ruckpack 60+ Recycled Travel Pack (Women’s) for those with shorter torsos. The Ruckpack’s thickly padded, stowable straps are fully height-adjustable. The bag is made from rugged, recycled ripstop nylon and is guaranteed for up to a year. And it holds about 60 liters, which gives you noticeably more space than our other picks while still keeping the overall dimensions manageable. You can read all about why we like the Ruckpack in our review of the best travel backpacks .

Travelpro Platinum Elite 25″ Expandable Spinner

The best checked bag for most travelers.

The bag provides a luxury feel at a reasonable price, with a capacity, warranty, and reliability that should suit most travelers. The 25-inch model should offer plenty of room for most people without going over airline weight limits.

If you don’t plan on walking around while carrying all your stuff, the  25-inch Travelpro Platinum Elite Expandable Spinner Suiter is our favorite piece of checked luggage for all of the same reasons we loved the carry-on size: It has excellent organizational features, it’s especially durable, and it has a better warranty than anything in its price range.

Luggage tags

Ovener Silicone Luggage Tag

Strong and easy to see.

Rugged silicone and a metal cable mean this tag (which comes two to a pack) may well outlive your luggage. The brightly colored case displays its owner’s name but keeps other personal information out of sight.

A good luggage tag should be durable, simple to use, and discreet. Ultimately, a tag should allow someone to get your luggage back to you quickly and easily, and it should withstand the wear and tear of being thrown onto conveyor belts time and again. After researching the top-rated and best-selling models, reading existing luggage-tag reviews, and comparing fourteen tags , we recommend the Ovener Silicone Luggage Tag for most travelers because it’s the only one we’d trust to survive being smashed by other bags, jammed into walls, and generally abused by baggage handlers. It’s the most durable tag we tested, and it comes in a wide selection of colors to help any bag stand out from the rest.

The Ovener tag’s silicone body seems nearly indestructible and is available in four bright colors (you get two tags per pack). Whereas other tags also feature metal cables, this tag has a metal grommet to keep the cable from eventually wearing through the silicone case.

Should you lose your bag, the Ovener makes it easy for a Good Samaritan to find your contact information. To fully access the info card, you have to unscrew and remove the metal strap; this lets the card slide out of the case. Most luggage tags we tested secure their info card in this way. It isn’t a difficult or time-consuming process, but it is an extra step compared with using a tag that displays all of your information openly. Still, for anyone who wants to keep their contact information out of view, the extra step is worth it.

Another approach to increasing privacy is to hide information in a QR code, as the Dynotag Smart Deluxe Steel Luggage Tag  does, or to provide a user ID number, as the Okoban UID Luggage Tags  do. But these seem like overly complex solutions to a problem that doesn’t really exist. The Dynotag requires a scanner app that many phone owners don’t want to bother with, and the Okoban requires going online and entering a code, which might deter otherwise-willing Good Samaritans.

Compression sacks

Originally designed for reducing the bulk of lofty sleeping bags, compression sacks are stuff sacks modified with additional nylon end caps that can be pulled together by strings or straps to remove air and create a smaller, denser package that’s easier to pack. Most travelers use compression sacks to condense socks, underwear, and other stuff you don’t mind getting wrinkled into a package with half as much overall volume. For example, an 8- to 12-liter sack can compress a fleece jacket and a long-weekend’s worth of socks and underwear into something that fits in one hand. They also make a decent pillow in a pinch.

Osprey StraightJacket (8L)

Easier access, less compression.

It has a full-length zipper on its side that allows access to the bag’s entire contents. However, it doesn’t compress as tightly as traditional designs.

Most compression sacks require you to empty out the stuff at the top to get to the stuff below it, but the side-zipper design on the Osprey StraightJacket allows access to the entire contents of the bag at once. The compression straps attach sideways, and are less likely to get tangled and twisted like on most compression sacks with lengthwise straps. It can also sit up on its own, and the handle design lets you break it out as a last minute carry-on to avoid an overweight-baggage fee. However, it doesn’t compress down as compactly as the traditional designs we tested so it’s not the best option if compression is your top priority.

GobiGear’s SegSac takes a different approach to solving the same access issue: It has four inner dividers that run the length of the sack in order to keep your socks separate from your underwear, winter accessories, towel, what have you. This means you don’t have to take out your T-shirts to get to your socks. Unlike the Osprey, it compresses just as much as a normal compression sack, but it loses points for versatility because the segmentation prevents it from handling large items like a down jacket or sleeping bag.

Packing cubes

Packing cubes could change your life. (Okay, maybe just your traveling life.) Packing cubes are basically bags to hold your clothes that you organize within your luggage. Though seemingly superfluous, they’re brilliant in action. If you imagine your suitcase as a dresser, you can think of these cubes as individual drawers: Put all your underwear and socks in one container, all your shirts in another, and your workout clothes in yet another. Then pull out only the cube you want. They make packing and repacking wonderfully simple.

Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Cube Set

Well built with easy access.

Simple and solidly constructed, these packing cubes keep your bag organized while you’re traveling.

The three-piece Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Cube Set keeps a week’s worth of clothes organized and moves easily from suitcase to hotel dresser. We’ve been recommending the previous version of these cubes for years, and after testing this newly updated set, we now recommend this version.

The full-size cube is great for shirts, shorts, and insulating layers. The half-cube and quarter-cube are perfect for underwear, socks, and other thin fabrics such as stockings or sleepwear. These cubes are made of 300-denier polyester (a strong fabric) and stay upright when empty, so they’re easy to pack. The Pack-It cubes’ windows are made of the tightest mesh link we tested—better for resisting snags—and the smooth zippers close easily around all corners, even when a cube is overstuffed.

The Eagle Creek cubes have the ability to unzip fully to allow full access to their contents while sitting in a dresser drawer. That means your clean clothes stay protected against some potentially dicey motel dressers. In 2022, Eagle Creek updated the design of these cubes, and now the company no longer uses YKK zippers, which are widely accepted as the best around . That said, we couldn’t tell any difference between Eagle Creek’s zippers and other brands’ YKK zippers, even with a magnifying glass, and their performance was indistinguishable. (For what it’s worth, an Eagle Creek product manager assured us that the proportion of zipper-related warranty claims hasn’t changed since the company made the switch from YKK.)

Most travelers are likely to be well served by the Reveal set. But if you value lightness above all, the more expensive Eagle Creek Pack-It Isolate Cube Set is about 50% lighter than similar-size competitors (just over 1 ounce for a medium cube, whereas the Eagle Creek classic style weighs about 4 ounces). Unlike the Reveal set, this set is water resistant. However, the Isolate design’s thin sides—which don’t allow the cubes to stand up on their own—make those cubes a bit more challenging to pack than the Reveal cubes.

Buying the right gear can help organize your existing travel kit, but it’s a red herring if your goal is better portability. “It’s mostly the clothing that allows you to reduce what you need to carry,” explains veteran traveller Eytan Levy, better known as the Snarky Nomad . That’s because clothing, which is very voluminous, makes up the bulk of what’s in your bag. He recommends traveling with basic-looking clothes because you can always buy or rent something nice in a pinch, whereas lugging around formalwear just in case will always be a pain. It also helps if you can avoid cotton and stick to merino and synthetic fabrics, which dry faster. This allows you to do laundry by hand in the sink as needed to reduce the amount of clothes you need to carry.

Travel underwear

Good travel underwear keeps you feeling fresh and clean, even when your destination is gritty.  To find the best , we researched an array of underwear designed for men and women to find 34 pairs meeting our criteria: moisture-wicking and breathable, quick-drying, odor-resistant, stretchy, stylish, and cut to fit a variety of body types.

We then conducted rigorous pretesting (wearing the underwear for two days at a time, machine-washing them repeatedly, and tracking their drying speed when hung on a clothesline) before taking them out into the real world. Our testers went backpacking 215 miles throughout Portland, Oregon; hiking in the Canadian Rockies, including walking from the lowest point in the Continental US to the highest; and road-tripping to the national parks of the West. Testers who flew to their destinations wore the underwear on the plane, too.

Afterward, we checked for signs of wear, such as seam breakage and pilling on the fabric. As we continued to test the finalists, we repeatedly checked for durability problems. In addition to comfort and fit, we noted whether each pair seemed lightweight and packable.

ExOfficio Men’s Give-N-Go 2.0 Sport Mesh 6″ Boxer Brief

Best for most men.

Durable, quick-drying, and relatively inexpensive, this soft-fabric version of ExOfficio’s time-tested Give-N-Go undies will get the job done for years.

The ExOfficio Give-N-Go 2.0 Sport Mesh 6″ Boxer Brief is the best men’s underwear for travel because it balances fit, comfort, odor-proofing, and value better than anything else we’ve tested. The Sport Mesh fabric excels at breathing and wicking and has better odor-resistance than other fabrics. It feels soft on the inside and smooth on the outside so it slides against your pants instead of creating friction, reducing potential for chafing. It also features a sculpted crotch area that gives wearers some much-appreciated support, without feeling stifling. These boxer briefs dry quickly, pack compactly, and weigh less than almost all the other boxer briefs we tried—basically they’re everything you’d want from a pair of excellent travel underwear.

Patagonia Women's Active Hipster

Best for most women.

These light, stylish, quick-drying hipsters stay in place whether you’re walking, flying, or hanging upside down.

The Patagonia Active Hipster doesn’t appear special upon first glance. Only after trying everything else and living through their failures to stay put did we remember what “special” really means in a pair of underwear: Feeling as if you’re wearing nothing at all. The Patagonias have the best fit, comfort, and style out of all the panties we tested. The nylon material is fast-wicking and better than most synthetics for odor-proofing, making it well suited for athletic activities. The Active Hipster is lightweight and packable, and is the fastest-drying underwear we tested—making them perfect for minimalist travelers who go weeks at a time with just one or two pairs. But these same characteristics make them great for any traveler looking for comfortable, packable panties, regardless of where you’re going or what you’re doing.

Budget pick

Uniqlo Men Airism Boxer Brief

Comfortable, compact, and fast-drying, these are a great value but don’t fit quite as nicely and aren’t as supportive in the crotch.

Uniqlo Women Airism Ultra Seamless HipHugger

Similar fabric to the Men’s Airism, with a no-ride cut for women, these underwear are the least expensive of any we tested and among the best performing.

If you want to spend as little as possible without sacrificing performance, the Uniqlo Airism line has long been a great choice for men and women who can wear sizes small and medium. In recent years, both lines have expanded their size range somewhat (men to 3XL, and women to XL). If these fit, you can replace an entire underwear drawer on a tight budget, as long as you can deal with the slightly odd cut and less-effective odor-control treatment.

If you’ve never traveled with merino wool socks, you’re missing out. These aren’t the scratchy wool socks your grandpa wore in the army; they are soft and stretchy ones that have natural sweat-wicking and odor-resisting properties that keep your toes comfortable under all conditions—even when wet. This combination of odor, moisture, and temperature regulations makes them ideal for traveling. "Because of its natural anti-bacterial properties, washing merino wool on a daily basis isn’t absolutely necessary,” explains Snarky Nomad , "after letting it air dry overnight while you sleep, it’ll seem brand new.” The only major downside is that merino tends to be a bit pricier than synthetic counterparts. But it’s a worthy trade-off, since you can go for longer with fewer pairs.

Darn Tough Light Hiker Micro Crew Lightweight Hiking Sock (Women’s)

The best quality for women.

The best mix of comfort, durability, and cushioning in a versatile height.

Darn Tough Light Hiker Micro Crew Lightweight Hiking Sock (Men’s)

For the best quality.

The same great versatile sock as the women’s model, but in different color options and more sizes.

Darn Tough’s Light Hiker Micro Crew socks (both the men’s and women’s versions) have been our favorite hiking socks for years. Darn Tough made its name through its quality guarantee : “Our socks are guaranteed to be the most comfortable, durable, and best fitting socks you can buy. In a nutshell, if you wear a hole in them, we will replace them free of charge, for life.” Pacific Crest Trail thru-hikers (hardcore backpackers who walk from Mexico to Canada in one continuous trip) praise them for their durability, comfort, and blister resistance. When you hold a pair of Darn Toughs next to a pair of Smartwools (which only have a two-year guarantee ), the difference is clear. The Darn Toughs are more tightly knit, the yarns are finer and feel sturdier, and the stitching is tighter.

Wirecutter’s Michael Zhao once wrote of his Darn Tough socks: “While I haven’t yet owned mine for life, my oldest pair is coming on three years old and I have trouble telling them apart from the newest pair I bought last month. During those same three years, I’ve worn through the heels of two pairs of Smartwool hikers and runners, had three pairs of Icebreaker ankle socks start to unravel, and developed holes in the heels and toes of six pairs of Stoic trail socks. Meanwhile, the Darn Toughs look as good as new. And unlike cheaper socks you can get from Costco or military surplus stores, they’re not so thick that you can’t wear them in warmer climates.”

WrightSocks

Light and fast-drying.

Not as durable but much lighter and faster-drying. A dual-layer design prevents blisters better than any other synthetic sock.

If you prefer a vegan product, have a wool sensitivity, or if you’d like something a bit cooler and are willing to sacrifice some durability, WrightSocks (both men’s and women’s sizes at that link) made from synthetic Coolmesh are a great choice (we like them better than Darn Tough’s synthetic option, which felt stifling). Like most synthetic socks, they’re lighter weight and dry quickly, but what sets WrightSocks apart is their dual-layered design, which prevents blisters by diverting friction between your shoe-lining and the sock onto the inner layer of the sock as opposed to your skin. This combination of blister prevention and light weight makes them particularly popular amongst runners in addition to travelers. Popular women’s travel gear review site HerPackingList calls them “the perfect sock for active travelers who will be on their feet for hours or days at a time.” Wirecutter writer Geoff Morrison switched his whole sock drawer out for these since he started traveling seven years ago and hasn’t looked back. “I've never gotten a blister, even after walking over 30 miles in a day during the 2014 Le Mans,” wrote Morrison in an email interview.

But with the WrightSocks, what you lose in weight, you also lose in durability. After just three trips through a washing machine, both the women’s and men’s versions we tested had substantial pilling in several locations. Morrison notes that his tend to start looking worn after about six months and that he replaces them about once a year. Also, avoid the dryer if you can because multiple user reviewers state that they’ll shrink in the dryer over time. (They dry quickly enough without the dryer that this isn’t really a huge issue.) And because they’re not merino, they really start to stink after a full day of walking around; bring extra.

Havaianas Top Flip Flop (Men's)

The best flip-flops for men.

Durable, grippy, and squeak-free when wet.

Havaianas Top Flip Flop (women’s)

The best flip-flops for women.

Same shoe in women's sizes.

A good pair of travel flip-flops should be lightweight, cheap, and flat. That way they’re easy to take wherever and it won’t matter if you lose them. After testing the super popular Havaianas, Ipanemas, Crocs, and Old Navy flip-flops, our pick is the Havaiana Top (for men and women ). These high-density PVC Brazilian classics are world-renowned for their durability, affordability, and reliable traction, even when wet. They weigh just 150 g, compared to the 220 g Ipanemas. They pack down to almost nothing, unlike the big and boaty Crocs. And while other cheap flip flops can get squeaky when wet, the Havaianas stay mostly silent, which is why they’re so popular in beach towns all over the world. Ultimately, this is what earned them the pick over our previous pick from Old Navy.

Clothesline

While doing laundry at home can be a large weekly event, OneBag author Doug Dyment recommends approaching travel laundry as a part of your daily routine, especially if you’re trying to pack as little as possible: “The laundry should be more like cleaning your teeth—something you do everyday. It only takes about five minutes to do it. Every night, do your socks and underwear and you’ll have clean socks and underwear everyday.”

A secure, hassle-free option

The Flexo-Line attaches easily to a door handle or faucet and grips garments securely between its loops.

Check out OneBag’s laundry packing list if you want specific tips on how to do it and what you’ll need, but it’s a pretty simple setup: All you need is a toiletry bottle of powdered detergent, a towel to help expedite drying, and a travel clothesline to finish the drying process while you sleep at night.

Specifically, you want a braided—not twisted—surgical latex clothesline with looped ends, which means you want a Flexo-Line . The Flexo-Line can stretch up to 7 feet long, which is enough to span most hotel bathtubs, and it has loops that you can attach easily to a door handle, bath spigot, or faucet. The braided construction is superior to twisted designs made from other materials because the latex does a better job of gripping garments securely between the loops, which means you don’t need any additional clothespins.

Dyment has tried them all, but the Flexo-Line is the one he comes back to. As he explained to me in an interview, “There are others that are fine, but there are far more that are not fine.” More specifically, Dyment says to avoid anything that’s not made of latex , because clothes will inevitably slip out of them. He also says to never, ever trust a suction cup: “They don’t work, period.” If the Flexo-Line is unavailable, Dyment says that the Rick Steves collection from Kiva Designs also makes a nice braided line that is a bit more expensive. If you have a latex allergy, Dyment recommends going with a length of cord ( paracord is nice because it’s durable and you can use it for other things as well) and stainless steel safety pins meant for cloth diapers , because they take up far less space than a clothespin and won’t rust. In fact, it’s worthwhile to get these items even if you can use a latex line because they’re great for making luggage repairs and performing other MacGyver-ish tasks in a pinch. To hang up the clothesline, we recommend using a bowline knot on one end and a taut line hitch on the other. These knots work well together because the bowline creates a simple, slip-proof loop to anchor one end while the taut line hitch allows you to adjust for tension and locks tightly in place. If you could commit any two knots to memory forever, these are the ones to learn.

Laundry detergent

Minisoak Travel Packs

A travel size version of the best delicates detergent.

Perfect for traveling because you don’t even need to rinse it out.

When you’re washing your underwear in a hotel sink, you want a fast and easy experience. For this, we recommend the no-rinse detergent Soak . That’s right, we said no rinse . You just add a drop to the sink, fill with water, and leave your garments to soak. Then press out the water and hang. Done.

In our tests of delicates detergents , Soak cleaned almost as well as our top laundry detergent, Tide; plus, it comes in individual packets of powder  that are great for traveling, as well as in  travel-size bottles of the liquid version . In addition to unscented, it's available in a variety of scents, although Lacey and Celebration are not the most descriptive of scent names. They all smell nice, not overpowering. Soak also comes in an assorted travel pack with two single-use packets of each scent, if you want to test-drive one or two before you buy. In that mini size, you get eight packets for $11 currently, but you really need only a squeeze, not the the whole packet, to wash a couple of pairs of socks and underwear.

One downside to Soak is that you won’t find it in a grocery store or big-box store. But it is available online at Soak’s site . And if you really want to walk into a store and put your mitts on a bottle, you can find it at most local yarn stores.

Don’t feel like buying Soak or bringing along a bit of your own detergent? Shampoo also works pretty well for cleaning garments in a pinch, so make use of that free bottle from the hotel. But a caveat: Neither Soak nor shampoo contains enzymes , which are biological molecules in laundry detergent that break down certain stains. If you have especially stinky or stained clothes, you might need to break out the Tide .

When we first published this guide, this section addressed only toiletry kits and bottles, razors, and packable towels. The times, and traveling, became more complicated. One thing we've learned in the past few years is that face masks can be useful whenever you’re sick and don’t want to share your misery: with a cold, the flu, Covid-19, whatever. Fortunately, compared with early 2020, medical-style N95s and KN95s (which many experts recommend as the best protection) are widely available. They’re easy to tuck into a bag, which we do now whenever we travel. 

Toiletry kit

We’ve researched dozens of travel toiletry bags and dopp kits over the past several years, and we tested 23 of the top-rated contenders in our most recent round of tests. After packing and unpacking a week’s worth of travel-size toiletries, conducting spill tests, and living out of the top performers on the road, we have a few different picks that stand out thanks to their style, packability, and quality of construction.

Sea to Summit Hanging Toiletry Bag (small)

A space-saving hanging bag.

This lightweight, well-organized bag fits a week’s worth of travel-size toiletries into a compact package. It’s meant to be hung, which makes it good for tight spaces, but it doesn’t have much in the way of internal structure.

The Sea to Summit Hanging Toiletry Bag (small) is compact and durable. It’s small enough to stash in a backpack or laptop bag, but it holds enough travel-size toiletries to keep us supplied for a week. You can open it and hang it from a shower curtain or towel rod to easily see and grab your items. It comes with a shatterproof mirror, two micro-mesh zip pockets and an open pocket for toothbrushes, lip balm, and tweezers, and a large compartment for bulky lotions and hair-care items.

L.L.Bean Personal Organizer Toiletry Bag

For more stuff and longer trips.

With a 6.4-liter capacity and over a dozen compartments, this toiletry bag has a place for everything—and everything will stay put during transit, too. It can also accommodate non-travel-size bottles.

The L.L.Bean Personal Organizer (medium) is a great option for longer trips and people who travel with full-size bottles. Its 6.4 liters of storage spread across a dozen compartments means there’s a dedicated place for pretty much everything you could want to bring on a trip—it even has a removable mesh shower caddy for shampoo and body wash. This level of organization is crucial for larger toiletry bags because, as we discovered after years of traveling with our picks, contents that aren’t securely fastened can shift around in transit, which increases the chance of spilling. The downside of all this organization is that the L.L.Bean weighs 14 ounces when empty, so it’s not ideal for carry-on travel.

If neither of these bags seems right for you, read our full review of the best toiletry bags and dopp kits to learn more about our picks and everything we tested.

Toiletry bottles

Sea to Summit TPU Clear Zip Pouch with Bottles

These six TSA-friendly bottles are sturdy and smartly designed, dispensing liquids more precisely than any of the other bottles we tested.

For traveling with liquids in your carry-on, the Sea to Summit set is your best bet. All six bottles conform to TSA size limitations; three of them can hold 3 ounces of liquid each, and three can hold 1.5 ounces each, for a total of 13.5 ounces. Despite the set’s name, the bottles themselves are made not of thermoplastic polyurethane—“TPU" refers to the zip pouch—but a high-density polyethylene material, much like what you’d see used in most plastic milk jugs. It has an almost-smooth, semi-transparent surface just textured enough that it’s not slippery when wet. The plastic is also flexible enough that you don’t have to squeeze very hard to get your shampoo or liquid soap or whatever going. An insert at the mouth of each bottle helps regulate the flow, and the screw tops prevent liquids from leaking in transit.

Razor (faces)

Gillette Mach3

The best manual razor for most faces.

This classic razor’s three widely spaced blades provide the best balance of speed, smoothness, and safety. Its handle is comfortable and well designed, and replacement blades can be had for a fair price.

We researched and tested 100 manual razors for our full razor guide , concluding that the Gillette Mach3 is our top pick for manual razors. Although the three blades require a little extra time for a closer shave, it performs comparably to the latest and greatest offerings for as little as half the price.

The Gillette Mach3 provides the best balance of speed, smoothness, and safety. The Mach3’s simple, round handle is easy to grip and maneuver, and its three blades offer a close shave without over-irritating the skin or getting clogged with hair. And the price of Mach3 blades—$2 per cartridge or less, whether you buy them online or in a store—came close to, or even beat, the pricing of shave-club rivals, and the Mach3 shaved better than those competitors.

Five of our eight testers named the Mach3 among their top three razors, and two named it a favorite.

Razor (legs/body)

Gillette Venus Smooth

The best body razor.

This classic Venus is one of the easiest razors to grip and maneuver and its three-blade design keeps the blades remarkably free of hair.

Disposable razors (both the completely disposable and replaceable-cartridge variety) are fine to take through airport security , and among them we like the Gillette Venus Original best. After testing 22 top-rated body razors and panel testing the five best of them , we prefer its capable, three-blade head and easy-to-maneuver handle to the competition’s. Plus, as with any Venus, the Original’s body is compatible with any other Venus head and many heads from Gillette’s facial razors, making it exceptionally versatile.

The Original’s head has three blades separated by considerable slats of space, making it far easier to clean the head between strokes. And it includes simple aloe strips above and below the blades, allowing the lubricant to ease the shave without transforming your razor into a swamp. The Original is intuitive to hold and secure to maneuver, thanks to a contoured handle with corrugated chevrons of rubber. Though our testers have a wide range of hand sizes, no one found the Original difficult to grasp. Despite the significant ribbing, it doesn’t feel too bulky. Gillette claims its razors have lasted for five weeks; we think one razor for a weeklong trip should be fine.

(Know that, confusingly, the Venus appears for sale on some retail sites under the name Venus Close and Clean or Venus Smooth. It’s the same razor. If you’re unsure which Venus model you’re looking at, check for the Original’s three blades and trademark sea-foam blue color.)

Towel (packable)

PackTowl Personal

The best all-around packable towel.

The PackTowl Personal Towel is lightweight, soft, absorbent, quick to dry, and odor-resistant.

With store pickup or REI membership (limited patterns)

(limited patterns)

We put 20 top-rated towels through a battery of tests including regular shower use, a trip to the beach, camping, and a 48-hour stay in a ziplock bag under the hot Hawaiian sun. After all was said and done, the Packtowl Personal Towel is still the best all-around travel towel for most people. In addition to being the softest lightweight towel we tested, it was more absorbent than competitors made of similar materials. It had the best odor-resisting abilities and comes with a convenient mesh carrying pouch. We also have alternate picks for ultralight and all-natural towels below.

The Personal Towel’s suede-like material was the softest of the thinner towels. The Personal Towel also had superior absorption when compared with other similarly constructed towels such as the Sea to Summit DryLite  and the Shandali UltraSport —in our tests, it absorbed 2.8 times its weight in water, while the others absorbed between 2.3 times and 2.7 times.

One of just two we tested that featured an added antimicrobial treatment, the Personal Towel was only a little musty smelling after 24 hours in a sealed ziplock bag, and remained unchanged at 48 hours.

If you’re looking for a budget option, consider the Rainleaf Microfiber Towel , which is a tad smaller than our other picks and is made from a seemingly lighter-feeling fabric. Unlike most budget options, it has an antibacterial coating and still managed to carry a pleasant smell after being testing in different environments.

Regardless of how you get to your final destination, it’s likely you’ll be stuck in a seat that’s less than ideal. Travel gadgets that claim to reduce this misery, such as compression socks, are popular. But when they take up precious luggage space for the duration of your trip—not just the flight or train ride–they need to be worth every cubic inch of space. The less you can make do with, the better off you’ll be.

Neck pillow

Travelrest Nest Ultimate Memory Foam Travel Pillow

More support for most necks.

Its tall memory-foam walls let it offer more support than any other pillow we tested. It’s also shaped to sit flush against a headrest, and it compresses to a manageable size.

The uniquely angled back on the Travelrest Ultimate sets it apart from other travel pillows we tested because it can lay flat against the seat back. Most other pillows have a rounded back, which pushes your head away from the headrest. The Travelrest also has rubber grip dots to prevent slipping while sleeping. This pillow’s spongy memory foam cushions the entire circumference of your neck, preventing your head from leaning far in any direction, and its adjustable Velcro strap ensures it can fit most necks. The pillow’s cozy velour exterior is removable and machine-washable. Although it doesn’t pack flat, the Travelrest weighs less than a pound and compresses to a quarter of its size when rolled into its Velcro-strapped carrying case. Our only complaint is that the Travelrest’s high walls, though supportive, can push over-ear headphones off of the ears of people with shorter necks.

Noise-cancelling headphones

Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700

The best over-ear noise-cancelling headphones.

The Bose 700 headphones deliver excellent noise cancellation in a comfortable, lightweight design that’s traveler friendly—but they carry a high price.

The Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 over-ear set has the most versatile active noise cancellation we’ve ever tested. With 10 levels of noise reduction to choose from, everyone should be able to find a setting that meets their needs. We also enjoyed the lightweight and comfortable design and the easy-to-use controls. What distinguishes the Bose 700’s ANC is the amount of adjustability it gives you: Most noise-cancelling headphones offer controls for only on/off or maybe high/low/off, but with the Bose 700 pair you can set the ANC level from 0 to 10, so you have more flexibility to dial in the ideal setting for your comfort. The 20-hour battery life, while not the best we’ve seen, is more than sufficient to get you to most destinations. We have additional options—including earbuds and surprisingly good budget options for  over-ear headphones and earbuds —in our full guide to noise-cancelling headphones .

Mack’s Slim Fit Soft Foam Earplugs

For blocking out the most noise.

These blocked the most noise in our controlled testing and got the most votes from our subjective sleep panel.

When you’re traveling, it can be difficult to fall asleep to unfamiliar noises. That’s why we spent several hours researching new contenders and tested four top-rated models while sleeping in a house that was next to an airport in order to determine that Mack’s Ultra Soft Foam earplugs are the best earplugs for most travelers .

The Mack’s 37.1 dB noise reduction rating was the highest among the models we tested. According to Cooper Safety , that’s enough to reduce the volume of a gas lawnmower to that of a normal conversation. What made the Mack’s earplugs so effective is the fact that we could insert them and rest assured that they would stay in the whole night. Meanwhile, the Howard Leight MAX1 might be a favorite from crowdsourced sleep-aid review site Sleep Like the Dead , but the earplugs would inevitably fall out in the middle of the night. Thus, they failed to block out the noise of planes landing and taking off throughout the night, despite the MAX1’s 33 dB noise reduction rating. The Howard Leights also made our ears ache on occasion, whereas the Mack’s has a tapered shape that was consistently comfortable night after night.

The Mack’s Slim Fit Soft Foam Earplugs cost about 20¢-35¢ per pair when purchased in a 50-pair pack. They come in a plastic case is about the size of a large coffee mug, which is small enough to toss in a large bag or suitcase. Many other ear plugs like our runner-up, the 3M’s E-A-Rsoft OCS1135 , can only be ordered in industrial-size lots that, while perhaps appealing to those who travel constantly (or run a hostel), are annoying to store and often lack a reusable container of any sort.

Nidra Deep Rest Eye Mask

For air travelers and back-sleepers.

The lightweight and contoured Nidra mask is a light-blocking win for most face shapes, with deep eye cups that allow the wearer to blink freely and arrive feeling refreshed.

When bright lights hamper peaceful shut-eye, we recommend the light-blocking, contoured Nidra Deep Rest sleep mask. Of the 20 masks we tried over two rounds of testing , the Nidra blocked the most light on the most faces. It’s contoured to rest on your face like a pair of soft goggles, with fabric lenses that sit around your eyes (instead of directly over them). This design provides more space for your eyes to flutter during REM sleep, ensuring that you come through red-eye flights with less redness in your eyes. Makeup wearers will also appreciate that, with the Nidra’s elevated eye cups, there’s a smaller chance of smudging.

Alaska Bear Natural Silk Sleep Mask

A flat, silk mask.

A silken exterior material, a flat design, and an adjustable strap make this mask a fit for almost any face, but it puts pressure on the eyes.

If the Nidra Deep Rest doesn’t fit your face quite right, we also recommend the Alaska Bear Natural Silk Sleep Mask . It lacks contoured eyecups and thus applies some pressure to the eyes overnight like any regular eye mask does. But its flat design easily conforms to fit your face, and its silk exterior feels smooth and soft against skin (the padding is made of cotton). Its relative lack of structure makes it more difficult to knock off when you’re tossing and turning. Testers also liked that the Alaska Bear’s unobtrusive buckled strap didn’t snag on long hair the way a Velcro strap could. We think the Alaska Bear is a terrific eye mask for sleeping while traveling or in bed—regardless of your preferred sleep position—but we find the Nidra mask’s roomier eyecups more comfortable.

Sleeping bag liner

Sea to Summit Premium Silk Travel Liner

For a silky feel and extra warmth.

The Sea to Summit silk liner wicks moisture, doesn’t retain smells, packs down to the size of an apple, and even weighs less than one. It makes scratchy motel and hostel linens a lot more bearable.

A silk sleeping bag liner is a great way to insulate yourself from scratchy, cheap, poorly maintained linens you might find at a hostel or motel. On top of the obvious bling appeal of sleeping in silk, it’s the best performing material, too: absorbent yet quick-drying.  This makes silk superior to cotton, which becomes uncomfortable as soon as it gets moist, and synthetics, which retain smells more readily. Silk is also super strong, and its light weight means manufacturers can give you full body coverage in a compact package.

Our favorite is the  Sea to Summit Premium Silk Travel Liner , which is available in a variety of sizes, including regular, long, and even double for sharing. Whichever you pick, it will pack down to about the size and weight of a medium-sized apple. You won’t need it everywhere you sleep, but you’ll be glad you have it the next time you run into a set of scratchy sandpaper sheets at a cut-rate boarding house. (We have also used this for sleeping on long plane flights with great success.) Cocoon and Rab are the only other options when it comes to 100 percent silk liners available online and backed by a real company with a warranty, but those come in only one size. (Western Mountaineering makes silk liners as well, but they’re mainly available through independent retailers.)

Few things are better than landing at an airport, turning on your phone, and having it just work. No hassles, no stress, no worries about brutal roaming fees. You can check in with loved ones, scope out the route to your lodgings, and maybe post an Instagram story or two—because your phone works just like it does at home. This is especially freeing, and it makes travel so much easier. (Of course, phones aren’t the only useful tech to bring: Check out our accessories reviews for guides to the best cables ( USB-C , Lightning , and Micro-USB ), Wi-Fi hotspots , Bluetooth speakers , and more.)

Unlocked mobile phone

One of the most useful gadgets for international travel is an unlocked smartphone that’s compatible with cheap, prepaid phone plans you can sign up for at your destination. Unless your carrier offers plans including high-speed data that you can access internationally (i.e., you’re with T-Mobile or Google Fi), traveling with a phone under contract with a major carrier means paying an arm and a leg for data. Being able to access data-guzzling apps like Google Maps or Google Translate on the fly is worth the hassle to unlock a phone. Facebook Messenger or WhatsApp are free, easy ways to communicate with people you meet on your trip and people from home. Plus there’s checking email, TripAdvisor, banking, social media, and so on.

An “unlocked” phone means you can buy prepaid SIM cards in the country you’re visiting, letting you access their local network for significantly less money than the roaming fees incurred by your home carrier. With a prepaid SIM, your phone effectively becomes a new phone with a new (now local) phone number. Instead of seeing “Verizon,” “AT&T,” or “Sprint” at the top of your phone, you might see “Vodafone,” “Yes Optus,” “M1,” or whatever provider you choose in the country you’re visiting. The first thing to check is if your phone will work where you’re going. If you’re unsure if your phone will work where you’re going, check the Wikipedia page for your phone or contact your provider.

Your phone will also require a removable SIM (which most newer phones have). Most countries require a passport or other ID to buy a prepaid SIM without a contract, but switching the SIMs is easy. Most stores will do it for you while you’re there. Depending on the country/provider, this could take as long as 10 minutes but is often faster. The next question is easily the most complicated: Can you unlock your phone? Each carrier has different rules and criteria. Generally, if you have a brand new, expensive phone, they may not let you unlock it (there’s usually a waiting period after the purchase date). But if it’s a little older, or if you’ve paid it off, they probably will. The thing to remember is that a provider can deny an unlock request without giving a reason. You might be lucky, though; certain phones on certain providers are unlocked by default. Here are Verizon and AT&T’s pages on unlocking. Alternately, you can buy a pre-unlocked phone just for travel. Amazon and Best Buy, for example, sell unlocked phones. This is also a good option if you think you might lose your expensive phone and a cheaper one will suffice while you travel.

Plug adapter

Epicka Universal Travel Adapter

Best universal travel adapter.

With four plugs that will work in most countries, plus faster-charging USB ports (and more of them) than its competitors, this adapter is the best all-around choice.

In a sea of almost-identical travel adapters, the Epicka Universal Travel Adapter stands out, combining the best of the features we look for. It contains the three most common international plugs and a US-style plug, which should cover you in the majority of countries around the world. It has the most USB ports—four of the standard USB-A and one USB-C—of any universal adapter we tested, and it charged more of our devices faster. A replaceable fuse and an included spare should take the brunt of any accidental, unfortunate, or shockingly bad connections. The Epicka is fairly compact and well built, and it even comes with an extra USB cable and a nylon case.

However, no universal travel adapter is truly universal, and they’re all a lot bulkier and more expensive than simple plug adapters. If you want the smallest adapter possible, or if you’re going someplace where a universal adapter won’t work (more on that in a minute), a plug adapter could be what you need.

Ceptics International Worldwide Travel Plug Adapter 5 Piece Set

The best plug adapter.

Individually, these tiny plug adapters are smaller, lighter, and cheaper than any universal travel adapter. To juice up multiple devices, though, you’d need a separate multiport charger too.

The tiny plug adapters from Ceptics are barely larger than the prongs they convert. Small, simple, and cheap, they’re perfect for someone who wants to carry only the adapter they’ll need and who already has a multiport USB wall charger they like. Like our universal adapter picks, this set contains the three most common international plugs and the US plug. However, it also includes a somewhat rarer plug used in some European countries that has two thick, cylindrical prongs. This means that the Ceptics set will likely cover you in even more places—as long as you pack the appropriate plug adapter. These charts should help you find the shape you need before you order.

However, getting your gear to work in different countries isn’t quite as simple as it should be, and there’s no single solution that’s guaranteed to work for everyone. Our picks should work for you, but you may have some random piece of equipment, or be traveling to some country, for which our “good for most” picks just won’t work. (Case in point: One Wirecutter editor visited Iceland a few years back. The house she stayed in had outlets unlike anything on those charts, and the plug adapters she had used elsewhere in Reykjavik didn’t fit at all. It turns out the mystery sockets belonged to an obscure Italian system from the 1960s that was popular in Iceland for a time. Luckily, the hosts had power strips in the house that her adapters fit into.) The world is a big place, and when it comes to electricity and wall outlets, there’s a lot of variation. That’s important to keep in mind.

Whether two-prong or three-prong, an adapter just changes the shape of your plug, not anything about the electricity coming through the wires. However, this usually isn’t a problem because almost every power brick that comes with modern electronic gear is capable of accepting both the 110-volt standard used in the US and the 240-volt commonly used abroad. If your device has a power block on the cord, it likely says something like  “100-240 V ~ 50/60 Hz”—that’s the all-clear to use it without a voltage converter so long as the range covers the voltage of the country you’re visiting . This includes the vast majority of modern laptop and USB chargers. Products without some sort of power block at the end or with a non-detachable cord—in particular, things with heating elements like hair dryers and curling irons—are more likely to need a voltage converter. Putting 220 V through a US 110 V device would be like attaching a firehose to a drinking fountain—you’re likely to blow your face off. But voltage converters are tricky devices, and most of the inexpensive ones have awful (or dishonest) reviews. Since hotels and hostels will often have hair dryers and most newer gear can do the full range of voltages, we strongly recommend that, whenever possible, you only bring items that work with a much simpler (and more reliable) adapter.

Wire/gadget organization system

Now that every device has a battery, every battery has a charger, and every charger has a cable—never mind power-plug adapters if you’re traveling abroad—the sheer quantity of accessories needed just to keep your gadgets running can take up more space than the devices themselves. And unless you organize them, you can bet on having to blindly fish them out of the least convenient spot at the bottom of your bag. Unfortunately, our pick for carrying tech necessities, the Incase Nylon Accessory Organizer, has been out of stock for a few years. It will, however, be coming back in 2024, according to Incase.

The Incase cable organizer is a poly-nylon blend, so it’s durable. It is a soft-shell bag, however, so its contents can distort the bag’s shape when it’s full. But the bag’s edges remain rigid—so the seams don’t pucker—its contents don’t fall out, and zipping and unzipping the bag is still easy. We have other picks in our full guide to bag and cable organizers , including a customizable mesh-pouch setup and a stylish duo of cosmetics travel pouches ; we’ll also start testing other options to replace this one.

USB battery packs

A USB battery pack (also called a power bank) can keep your small electronics—from phones and cameras to tablets and more—going while you’re on the road. Although the length of your trip will determine exactly how much extra juice you’ll need to have on hand, whatever your requirements, we have a great USB battery recommendation for you. The Zendure SuperMini 20W is about as small and lightweight as a power bank can possibly be while still offering enough capacity to juice up most smartphones up to three times. Its USB-C Power Delivery (PD) port can charge most handheld devices (and recharge the power bank itself) at top speed with the included USB-C cable and a compatible wall charger (the one that came with your phone will work). The USB-A port can handle any older, non-USB-C devices you might have kicking around, too. The SuperMini’s rounded edges make it easy to hold and slip into a pocket.

If you’re traveling for leisure, try not to get too wrapped up in technology because you might miss what you’re actually there to do: experience a new place. OneBag’s Doug Dyment said in an interview, “Wearing headphones and staring at a screen is like putting a digital wall around yourself when you’re traveling. It makes you seem unapproachable and uninterested in what’s around you.” That may be a good thing if you do truly want to be left alone, but Dyment went on to say that some of his most memorable traveling experiences were the result of just looking lost and getting help from the locals. “One minute, you’re a lost foreigner in an unfamiliar village, then someone asks if you need directions. Before you know it, you’re eating dinner with his family.”

Travel binoculars

Athlon Optics Midas ED

The overall best binoculars.

Amazingly affordable with great optics, these binoculars have performance comparable with that of many models that cost thousands more.

Our top pick for binoculars is durable and great for near-home hikes. In hot or dusty environments that may call for a clearer optical boost, the Athlon Optics Midas ED 8×42 binoculars deliver top quality. Its focus dial offers a wide range of depths that makes it easier to see whatever it is you desire—birds, grass or darkened areas of the forest. Our recommendation comes with the assistance of a professional ornithologist who spent over 100 hours putting 17 pairs of binoculars to the test in the mountains of Southern California and the rain forests of southern Mexico.

Although the Celestron TrailSeeker ED binoculars don’t offer a clear edge-to-edge view to the same degree of the Athlon Optics Midas EDs , they’re a comparable runner-up model that’ll be lighter on your wallet if having binoculars while traveling is a must. The TrailSeekers are equipped with great light-gathering qualities, close focus, and impressive optical resolution.

Ebook reader

Amazon Kindle (2022)

The best e-reader for most people.

Amazon’s most affordable Kindle is also its most portable, and it’s finally been upgraded with sharper text on its 6-inch screen and support for USB-C charging. Those features bring it in line with much-pricier e-readers.

The entry-level Amazon Kindle finally got an upgrade, with the same crisp display and USB-C charging as the pricier Kindle Paperwhite has (and with double the storage space of the previous entry-level model). If you have $20 more to spend, the Amazon Kindle Kids is worth it even if you’re not a parent; it comes with a case, one year of Amazon Kids+, a two-year warranty (compared with the standard version’s one year of coverage), and no ads. Getting rid of ads on the base model costs $20 alone. Amazon’s well-stocked ebooks store remains its biggest selling point, along with the ease of checking out library books via Libby and sending them directly to a Kindle.

Even if you don’t have time for pleasure reading on your trip, it’s worth investing in a Kindle because many major travel guides are available in fully searchable ebook formats now. Furthermore, e-texts will also work on your phone, tablet, and computer, thanks to the Kindle ecosystem.

Travel water bottle

CamelBak Podium 21oz Bike Bottle

A lightweight squeezie.

This squeeze bottle is leakproof, light enough to throw into a carry-on for a flight, and cheap enough that if the TSA forces you to ditch it, the loss won’t break your heart.

If you’re tired of paying for a liter of water every time you take a plane trip, try a lightweight water bottle that you can stuff into your bag and then refill once you get past airport security. For years, we looked for a reliable collapsible travel bottle, but we were disappointed so many times: The HydraPak flopped, the Hydaway tasted plasticky, the Vapur and the Platypus collapsed (in a bad way), and the Nomader didn’t pack down very small. And in our experience, the implied way to carry a full one correctly—clipped to a backpack or belt loop—left them swinging around haphazardly. We’ve recommended all of these bottles in the past, but we’ve always been left wishing there was a better way.

Basic, light, and cheap, a squeeze bottle made for cycling is now our sincere recommendation for airport travel, and we like the CamelBak Podium in particular. It has a twist lock that provides extra assurance that it’s closed tight when you toss it in a bag—plus, it’s dishwasher safe. In addition to its being light and relatively compact, if the TSA takes it, you’ve lost only a few dollars instead of your investment in an expensive insulated bottle. The lid on this bottle is not covered, though, so if you dislike the idea of this bottle swimming around in a bag with the drinking surface exposed, you may prefer another of our water bottle picks, the Thermos Hydration Bottle , although some of our testers didn’t like having to fuss with the lid or flip lock on the Thermos.

Packable daypack

Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Travel Day Pack

A pack that fits in your palm.

Toss this lightweight, phone-sized packable bag into your luggage or coat pocket, and you’ll never get caught without a spare bag again. If you need something to carry every day, though, we think you’ll prefer one of our more-structured picks.

Packing a stowable daypack, one that stuffs down to fit in your luggage when not in use, is a relatively small investment of space in exchange for a high return of function and flexibility. After researching dozens of packable daypacks across a spectrum of portability, features, and prices, and then packing, unpacking, loading, wearing, and drenching the top-rated finalists during multiple rounds of testing, the Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Travel Day Pack is the smallest and lightest packable backpack we recommend. Packed up, it is very discreet: nearly the size of a keychain accessory. The bag itself is a no-frills sack made from a paper-thin siliconized Cordura nylon, which means it’s very light and water-resistant. It has reinforced stitching at stress points, allowing the Ultra-Sil to carry more weight than you would expect. That said, since this pack is made of such thin, light material, carrying large or awkwardly shaped loads is somewhat uncomfortable, especially when compared with our more structured picks.

If comfort or waterproofing is important to you, check out the alternative picks in our review of packable daypacks for travel .

Field Notes 3-Pack Original Kraft Memo Books

For ultimate portability.

Field Notes are cheap but contain high-quality paper that earns praise from pen and stationery geeks across the web.

For writing your adventures as you travel, you can’t beat the portability, practicality, and romanticism of a pocket notebook. There’s nothing better in that category than Field Notes (three-packs available in a variety of styles and types ). These pocket-sized notebooks are widely praised for their excellent paper quality, and the Pen Addict’s Brad Dowdy tells me “Field Notes is pretty much the runaway pocket notebook champ.” Dowdy has praised it for the lack of feathering or bleedthrough with almost any pen, as well as for the light brown ruled lines, which are easier to write over than solid black. Austin Smith of Art Supply Critic told us in an email that his recommendation is “Field Notes has it, no question.” The Well-Appointed Desk has reviewed a slew of different Field Notes variants for those looking for something a bit more interesting.

Field Notes Expedition

A weather-resistant option.

Weather-resistant Expedition Field Notes are great if you’re writing in wet conditions, but don’t get them if you don’t need them. The synthetic paper feels weird and can cause some inks to smear.

If you think you’re going to be writing in foul weather, Field Notes also has the waterproof Expedition version with pages made from a synthetic water-and-tear resistant paper. You should only get these if you really need them, because otherwise, they just feel unnaturally slick and are more prone to smearing ink. At least one user has said that the paper shows less soaking through when wet than the similar Rite in the Rain books . The one caveat is that the synthetic paper will only work with pencils and certain inks ; thankfully, the Uni-ball Jetstream RT , our pick for best pen , definitely makes the grade.

Things can go wrong while you’re traveling, both where you are and where you’re not. Though you can’t prepare for every worst-case scenario, the peace of mind that a little bit of preparation grants will allow you to focus on what’s in front of you, instead of having to worry about what could go wrong. But preparation doesn’t simply mean buying more stuff just in case; it also means making efficient use of what you already have.

Merchant & Mills for Purl Soho Rapid Repair Kit

For the best combination of sewing tools.

The Merchant & Mills Rapid Repair Kit is the only travel kit we found that had objectively high-quality thread and scissors.

There’s nothing quite like a wardrobe malfunction to put a damper on vacation, especially when traveling with limited clothing. A good travel-size sewing kit allows you to mend a popped button or ripped seam on the fly—or even tackle more pressing issues like fixing a tent, sleeping bag, or backpack. After 15 hours of research, interviews with sewing teachers and avid home sewers, and tests of six travel and full-size kits, we found the Merchant & Mills for Purl Soho Rapid Repair Kit had by far the best tools and was the easiest to keep organized. Standard travel sewing kits usually contain mediocre thread and plastic-handled scissors that break easily. They can also be hard to keep organized (a truth we confirmed when testing six top-rated travel and full-sized kits). The Merchant & Mills set was the only one that had high-quality thread, all-metal mini scissors (don’t worry, the TSA shouldn’t stop you ), and a durable tin case (about the size of a deck of cards) to keep everything well organized.

Because the sewing pins are neatly stuck into paper inside a slim envelope and the three needles are housed in a mini glass vial, this kit also limits the risk of losing a sharp object in your bags. We found the Merchant & Mills needles easier to thread than others (no need for a fussy needle threader!) and we also like the vintage-looking safety pins that come clipped together along with two small white buttons. Although this kit only comes with black and white thread, the thread is strong and there’s more of it than you’d get in a flimsier set with shorter strands of multiple colors. We do think it would be nice if the kit included a more durable measuring tape than the paper one included, but overall everything about this kit is leagues ahead of anything else we considered. We didn’t find editorial reviews for any of the kits we tested, but the Merchant & Mills rapid repair kit was recommended by several sewing bloggers and is sold in many reputable indie fabric shops.

Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella

The best umbrella for most people.

This is a solidly built, easy-to-find umbrella that holds up in high winds. It also comes in a variety of colors.

price may vary by color or style

An umbrella you take traveling should be small, light, sturdy, and affordable. After putting in 66 hours of research and evaluating a total of 48 umbrellas across five rounds of testing (including one thunder-snowstorm), we found that the Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella is the best umbrella for most people. Its durable, nine-rib construction held up admirably against gale-force winds, and it’s as sturdy as umbrellas that sell for more than twice as much.

The Repel folds up to an 11½-inch long, 14-ounce package that fits easily into most bags and glove boxes. And it forcefully expands at a touch of a button to reveal an ample 37-inch-diameter canopy that protects your head and torso from precipitation in all but the windiest of conditions. Its lengthy, textured handle is easy to grip for hands of all sizes. We also appreciate that the Repel comes in a wide variety of colors, so it’s easier to pick yours out of a crowded umbrella bucket. Finally, despite its affordable price, it’s backed by a lifetime replacement guarantee, but only if you purchase directly from Repel and register the item under the company’s warranty.

Packing method for clothes

While packing cubes and other organization tools are helpful for maximizing your bag’s usable space, efficient packing is also achievable without the aid of tools and compartments. One Bag’s Doug Dyment tried all manners of folding aids and compression products but was unsatisfied with their claims of compression and wrinkle prevention. Frustrated, he developed his own method of packing clothes compactly called the Bundle Method, which he’s used and perfected over several decades of traveling.

The Bundle Method involves layering your shirts and pants at opposing angles on a flat surface, then wrapping them around a small “core” parcel (e.g. a packing cube full of underwear and socks). We won’t get into details, but Dyment does on his website ; you can watch this easy-to-follow video from NBC . The resulting bundle is compact and has no sharp creases that will require ironing out later on. Additionally, Dyment explains that “the slight tension created in the fabric by the wrapping process, along with the anchoring of the resulting bundle, greatly reduces the chances of wrinkling.” You then put it in your bag and use the tie-down straps to provide just enough pressure to keep it together.

While simple to perform, this packing method isn’t something you can master in one go. It takes a bit of practice, but once you get it, it’s like riding a bike. The downside is that you can’t just leave your clothing packed and expect to be able to access your underwear without fully unpacking your clothes first. But unpacking is a good habit to get into anyway, as it allows your clothes to breathe and avoid wrinkles or mildew. Wirecutter founder and frequent traveler Brian Lam says that unpacking the moment he enters a room has a grounding effect that allows him to feel a bit more at home in a new environment.

If this sounds like too much of a hassle for you, you can do what we did before we found out about bundling: roll up your socks and underwear tightly and place them in packing cubes, then put your wrinkle-prone items (shirts, pants, skirts, dresses, jackets) in a garment folder—we used the Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Garment Folder . This is also travel guru Rob King’s preferred method of packing. Though the garment folder is not quite as space-efficient as the bundle method due to the added bulk of the folder and folding board, the plastic backboard does go a long way towards preventing wrinkles. Just be aware that if you leave your clothes in there for longer than a day, they’ll begin to develop unsightly creases that require an iron to get rid of.

A big thank-you to the Hotel Lucia in downtown Portland, Oregon, for lending us a suite to use for the photos in this guide.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Meet your guide

Wirecutter Staff

Mentioned above

• There’s more to a great in-flight personal item than being small enough to stuff under a plane seat. Here’s how to choose the right one for your travel needs. The Best Underseat Luggage and Personal-Item Bags  
• The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is our backpack pick for most travelers. We also have picks for other travelers, including those who want to carry a bit more. The Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks  
• After 10 years of airport dashes and overhead-compartment stashes, the Travelpro Platinum Elite is still the suitcase we want to carry. The Best Carry-On Luggage  
• For trips ranging from a week to multiple months, the Osprey Farpoint 55 and Fairview 55 carried everything we needed comfortably. The Best Travel Backpack  
• After researching 30 models, we found that Travelpro Platinum Elite 25″ Expandable Spinner is the best suitcase for most travelers who check bags. The Best Suitcases for Checking  
• We chose five luggage tags that will help you identify your belongings in a sea of similar suitcases. The Best Luggage Tags  

Further reading

How to Sleep Well (or at Least Better) While Traveling

by Christine Ryan

Our sleep and travel editors recommend gear for coping with travel-induced insomnia, vetted through hours of testing and years of personal experience.

The Gadgets We Bring on Every Trip

by Haley Perry

You don't have to be a digital nomad to travel like one. Here are a few gadgets and accessories to make travel as painless as possible.

Road-Trip Essentials

by Eve O'Neill

We spend a lot of time driving each year, and this is our list of essential road-trip gear to include in your packing list.

The Best Gear for Your Road Trips

by Kit Dillon and Wirecutter Staff

After 120 hours of research and 1,500 miles behind the wheel, we’ve singled out the gear that’s absolutely essential for your next journey on the open road.

The Best Travel Gear and Accessories for Your Next Adventure, According to Experts

Travel must-haves you should definitely pack.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

We carefully reviewed this article in April 2023 and stand by our picks.

At the Good Housekeeping Institute , our analysts and engineers have been testing travel products for more than two decades across our Labs. Below we feature the travel gear that’s outperformed in our tests and has been rated highly among consumer testers , ranging from reliable suitcases to comfortable walking shoes, beauty must-haves, gadgets to keep you entertained for hours and handy travel accessories . According to our pros, this is the best travel gear to bring along on your next adventure in 2023 and beyond.

Our top picks:

Best Carry-On Luggage

Away the carry-on.

Best Checked Luggage

Open story hardside luggage large checked spinner suitcase.

Best Underseat Luggage

Samsonite solyte dlx softside luggage.

Best Kid's Luggage

American tourister disney hardside upright luggage.

Best Duffel Bag

Patagonia black hole duffel bag 55l.

Best Weekender Bag

Lo & sons the catalina deluxe.

Best Travel Backpack

The north face borealis backpack.

Best Packing Cubes

Eagle creek pack-it specter compression cube set.

Best Travel Dress

Outdoor voices exercise dress.

Best Walking Shoes

Allbirds tree runners.

After our top picks in each category, read further to learn travel hacks from our experts. If your next trip is right around the corner, check out our guide to the best luggage on Amazon for two-day Prime shipping!

The Best Travel Gear for Packing

No one likes arriving at their vacation destination only to find the wheels of their suitcase broken. To enjoy hassle-free air travel, the experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute’s Textiles Lab recommend investing in a high-quality, durable suitcase. Whether you’re looking for a lightweight carry-on, spacious hard-shell or compact smart suitcase for a quick business trip, these luggage brands and packing essentials will help make preparing for your next adventure a breeze.

Away's trendy, colorful line of carry-on suitcases is a popular pick among consumers and our Textile Lab's best overall luggage brand . Our pros love that it features a spacious interior while remaining super lightweight thanks to a polycarbonate shell. We also like that you can opt for a suitcase with or without a built-in USB charger so you can charge your phone on the go. If you need to remove the battery before boarding, you can do so easily with the push of a button.

READ MORE: The Best Carry-On Luggage to Buy in 2023

When you’re looking for size, quality and value, look no further than this sleek suitcase. Our Textiles Lab analysts were impressed with the performance of Open Story luggage in recent Lab testing, noting that this durable suitcase handled drop after drop without any dents or damage. Consumers pointed out that the suitcase was easy to maneuver on various surfaces and that they found its modern design appealing.

Fighting for space in a crowded overhead compartment or unexpectedly checking your bag at the gate can be frustrating. If you don’t want to take any risks, consider this Samsonite suitcase that should fit under most airplane seats. According to our Textiles Lab experts, it comes with a comfortable handle and compartments for your laptop and toiletries. Best of all, the suitcase’s abrasion-resistant polyester exterior showed no signs of wear in tests.

READ MORE: The 12 Best Underseat Luggage to Buy

Whether or not you’re planning a trip to Disney World, your kids are bound to love this Disney-themed hard-shell suitcase that comes in popular character prints. Our Textiles pros like that it’s super compact and lightweight to make it easy for your kids to roll around without your help, and that it features oversized zippers and a wide, curved handle made for smaller hands. Though it only comes equipped with two wheels, our users still found it easy enough to maneuver.

READ MORE: Best Kids Luggage

Those planning a road trip or an adventure might want to consider leaving their suitcase at home and grabbing this lightweight duffle bag instead. Our Textiles Lab likes this top-performing bag from Patagonia, which can convert into a backpack should you get tired of carrying it on your shoulder or via the top straps. Not only is it offered in several shades, but it can be compressed into a small bag when not in use, so you don’t have a bulky suitcase taking up your entire hotel room.

READ MORE: Best Duffel Bags for Your Next Vacation

Lo & Sons The Catalina Deluxe

Sometimes you don’t need a big suitcase for a quick weekend getaway. Our pros love this Lo & Sons bag, which is not only stylish but super spacious so you can fit in all your essentials. The Textiles Lab likes that there’s a separate shoe compartment , so you don’t have to worry about your clean clothes getting mixed up with your dirty sneakers. The bag also features a trolley strap so you can easily secure it on top of your suitcase should you end up needing one.

Everything you need on your next adventure comes with this comfortable, spacious travel backpack, including a bungee system on the exterior to hold your jacket , a laptop compartment and an organized zippered compartment for all your smaller travel essentials. In Lab tests, our textiles experts were impressed with the backpack's water resistance, durability and thoughtful design.

READ MORE: Best Travel Backpacks of 2023

Keeping your suitcase organized is no easy task, but that's when these thin packing cubes save the day. Not only are packing cubes useful for keeping track of what clothing is where, but they can help maximize the space in your suitcase — a win-win. The pros at the Good Housekeeping Institute's Textiles Lab love these cubes' durable, lightweight design as well as each built-in handle for easy access whether you're using a backpack, carry-on or duffle bag.

READ MORE: Best Packing Cubes for Maximizing Carry-On Space

The Best Clothing for Traveling

It can be difficult to narrow down the clothing to bring with you on your trip, but it’s important to pack some comfortable, staple items in addition to all your cute outfits. You’ll be happy you brought a pair of comfortable walking shoes after a long day of exploring a new city, as well as that breezy lightweight travel dress on a hot, summer day. In addition to clothing, our pros also recommend packing a few travel accessories like laundry detergent or a travel steamer to keep your clothing in pristine condition no matter where you are.

Exercise dresses are so popular for a reason — they’re extremely comfortable and an easy item to throw on when on the go. Our Textiles experts like this dress from Outdoor Voices not only because our testers rave about it, but because it's moisture-wicking and versatile. It’s the perfect choice for a day you’ll spend hiking, golfing, biking or taking a walking tour. Best of all, it features a built-in bra and shorts for full coverage.

READ MORE: Best Travel Dresses You Need For Your Next Vacation

On days you’re going to be walking for hours, make sure to pack these comfy Allbirds sneakers in your bag. Ninety-one percent of our survey respondents from our tester panel gave this pair a perfect rating for comfort. Our Textiles pros like how you can wear them with or without socks, and once you’re back from vacation all you have to do is toss them into the washing machine.

READ MORE: Best Walking Shoes for Women

Vim&Vigr Cotton Graduated Compression Socks in 15-20 mmHg

Compression socks can work wonders when you’re seeking relief from swollen feet during a long plane ride or after hours of walking. By applying graduated pressure to your calves and feet they can help alleviate swelling and improve blood flow. Our Textiles analysts recommend this pair from Vim&Vigr, which earned top scores in both performance and durability tests and was a favorite among consumers.

READ MORE: Best Compression Socks for Women

Darn Tough Hiker Boot Sock Full Cushion

Need a quality pair of comfortable socks for your next adventure? Whether or not you plan on hiking, our Textiles experts recommend Darn Tough socks for any everyday activity. This Merino wool pair is moisture-wicking as well as great for colder temperatures. It also helps prevent blisters by staying put securely on your foot with a seamless design. Our pros like that each pair comes with a lifetime guarantee should you experience significant wear and tear.

READ MORE: Best Hiking Socks to Protect Your Feet

Vionic Amber Adjustable Sandal

Nothing makes walking down Italian cobblestone streets more enjoyable than comfortable walking sandals. If you plan on getting your steps in while you’re on vacation, our Textiles experts recommend packing these Vionic sandals . Available in both medium and wide widths as well as various shades , they’re a great fit for a lot of feet. Our pros like that they’re orthotic shoes but thanks to their modern design, no one will be able to tell.

READ MORE: Best Walking Sandals That Are Super Comfy and Cute

Oliso M2 Mini Project Steam Iron

There’s nothing more frustrating than arriving at your hotel or Airbnb only to find a suitcase full of wrinkled clothes, with no iron or steamer in sight. Fortunately, this compact steam iron that’s recommended by our Cleaning Lab is easy to squeeze into a suitcase. Our pros like that it’s lightweight and easy to maneuver. In tests, we were impressed by how successfully it pressed out wrinkles.

READ MORE: Best Steam Irons of 2022

Norwex Laundry Detergent Strips

If you’re going away for a few weeks or are trying to pack light, consider bringing along some of these laundry detergent strips so you can clean your clothes and re-wear them. Our Cleaning Lab pros recommend this pick from Norwex, which earned some of the best performance scores in Lab tests and helped remove stains like ketchup, wine and mud. We also like how the strips come in a lightweight paper envelope so they’re easy to pack.

READ MORE: 5 Best Laundry Detergent Sheets

The Best Beauty and Hygiene Travel Must-Haves

There are certain beauty must-haves that you just can’t leave behind (and shouldn't have to!). Whether you’re looking for a reliable eye mask for your next red-eye, or need a bag that's big enough to store all your makeup and toiletries, our pros narrowed down their favorite beauty and hygiene picks that fortunately come in travel-friendly sizes.

Drybar Baby Buttercup Travel Blow Dryer

Fight bad hair days anywhere in the world by bringing along your own hair dryer. Our Beauty Lab experts like this travel-sized pick from Drybar, which folds up nicely so you can stash it in your suitcase. Not only does it feature two voltages so you can use it abroad, but it got a perfect score for its easy-to-use controls in Lab tests and impressed our pros with its quick and efficient drying time.

READ MORE: Best Travel Hair Dryers that are Trusty Space Savers

Calpak Clear Cosmetics Case

Our pros love this clear toiletry bag for any sort of travel thanks to its spacious, organized interior that features two zippered compartments as well as mesh pockets for smaller items like lipstick or concealer. It comes in both a mini and standard size, but what we love most are the collapsible carrying handles that make it easy to pull out of your bag when going through security, and flat when going back in your suitcase.

READ MORE: Best Toiletry Bags

Truffle Clarity Jetset Case

This TSA-approved clear makeup case makes going through security a breeze thanks to its transparent paneling. Our beauty pros love that it’s offered in three sizes, making it a great choice for any makeup routine. Though we wish it featured organizational pockets, we like its classy, modern design (offered in leather or nylon) as well as its sturdy structure.

READ MORE: Best Makeup Bags to Stash All Cosmetics

Purell Advanced Hand Sanitizer Soothing Gel

The Purell Hand Sanitizer Gel is a favorite among our Lab experts, who find that the aloe and vitamin E formula doesn’t leave behind a sticky residue like other hand sanitizers. We like that it’s not overly drying, even with a 70% alcohol concentration, and that it’s available in a compact travel size , making it easy to fit in your purse or bag wherever you go.

READ MORE: Best Hand Sanitizers

Maskc KN95 Face Masks

Though some airlines no longer require wearing a mask while in-flight, you may want to consider packing one to protect yourself and your loved ones. According to the CDC , “Masking is a critical public health tool for preventing spread of COVID-19, and it is important to remember that any mask is better than no mask.” If you're looking for a pack of 10 KN95 masks that are offered in a variety of tones and prints, one GH analyst found this site easy to order from and loves that it offers great discounts. In addition to soft ear loops that make it easy to wear this mask for an extended time , we also like the adjustable nose bridge so you can get a secure fit.

READ MORE: Coronavirus and Face Masks: Everything You Need to Know Right Now

The Best Travel Gear for Sleeping

Though traveling is exhilarating, it can also be exhausting if you don’t get the proper rest that you need. To ensure your journey is a peaceful one from start to finish, our pros recommend a few essentials to help you get a better night’s sleep. Whether you’re taking an overnight flight or you’ve ended up in a noisy hotel room, these picks should help you get some rest.

Cabeau Cabeau Evolution S3 Travel Pillow

Anyone who has ever tried sleeping on a long flight knows how hard it can be to get comfortable. This travel pillow is recommended by the Executive Director of the Good Housekeeping Institute's Textiles Lab, Lexie Sachs . The soft, memory foam pillow features straps that attach to an airplane's seat to prevent your head from falling sideways so you can actually get some rest. Our pros also like that once you've reached your destination, it can be compressed back into its compact travel case.

READ MORE: Best Travel Pillows

Bucky 40 Blinks No Pressure Solid Eye Mask

Most of us have trouble sleeping in a bright room, so it’s a good idea to always have a sleep mask with you. By covering your eyes, these masks are useful when you really need to get some rest. Our Textiles experts like this mask from Bucky, a top performer in Lab evaluations for its contoured design, ease-of-use and durability. It comes in a range of colors and, according to our pros, excelled at blocking out light in tests.

READ MORE: Best Sleep Masks for the Most Restful Sleep

Mack's Ultra-Soft Foam Earplugs

Whether it turns out that there’s a nightclub next to your hotel or you can’t sleep because of early morning construction, earplugs can be a lifesaver. Just pop them into your ears to block out pesky sounds that previously kept you up. Shoppers on Amazon love this pick from Mack’s, which has more than 42,000 raving reviews . Though they’re disposable, many users found that they were able to use them for two to three nights.

READ MORE: Best Earplugs for Sleeping

The Best Travel Electronics

While we agree that you should try to disconnect during your vacation, that doesn’t mean you have to leave your favorite electronics back at home. Whether you want to bring along some reading material, entertainment or tools to keep your gadgets up and running, our tech experts recommend bringing these top-tested travel electronics on your next trip.

Bose QuietComfort 45

Our Media & Tech pros swear by this pair of wireless Bose noise-canceling headphones when flying. Not only is it comfortable to wear for hours , but it does an excellent job at blocking out white noise, like the annoying drone of a plane. The QuietComfort 45 aced Lab tests for performance and impressed our pros with its excellent sound quality, making this a travel gadget to definitely not leave behind.

READ MORE: 12 Best Noise-Canceling Headphones

Apple AirTag

There’s nothing quite so disappointing as arriving at your final destination only to discover that your luggage has been lost. To keep better track of your belongings, our pros suggest getting a tracker like an Apple AirTag. Our pros like its compact, lightweight design and that it offers real-time tracking so you know your suitcase is coming before it actually arrives at the baggage carousel. Just keep in mind that if you’re not in the Apple ecosystem, you’ll have to opt for another luggage tracker like the Tile Pro , which unlike an AirTag is compatible with Android devices.

READ MORE: Best Luggage Trackers for Keeping an Eye on Your Checked Bags

Apple iPad 10.2” 2021

Leave your laptop at home and bring along a tablet to keep yourself or your kids entertained on your next trip. This pick from Apple will suit most consumers’ needs, according to our tech pros, with an A14 Bionic chip that can handle a variety of tasks like streaming, gaming or FaceTiming. We like that it’s compatible with the Apple Pencil (1 st gen) and Magic Keyboard Folio should you ever need to take a business call while away.

READ MORE: A Complete List of the Best Tablets to Buy

Amazon Kindle Paperwhite

Though many of us love highlighting and jotting down notes in a travel guide or flipping through the pages of a book, lugging around too many hard copies can get heavy very quickly. Our tech pros suggest investing in an e-reader like the Kindle Paperwhite, which is not only super compact, lightweight and waterproo f (it’s IPX8-rated, meaning it can handle continuous water submersion), but it also gives you access to anything you want to read, anywhere in the world. We like that, thanks to its slim design, it’s extremely easy to fit in a purse or backpack for the day.

READ MORE: The 5 Best E-Readers to Buy

Anker 325 Power Bank (PowerCore 20K)

To ensure your gadgets’ batteries never fail you in a time of need (like when you’re trying to find your way home or access your hotel reservation), our tech experts recommend this portable power bank from Anker. Its compact, slim design makes it easy to throw in a backpack without weighing you down, and our pros like that it can charge up to two devices at once via USB-A ports.

Joomfeen Travel Adapter

Don’t forget to pack this universal charger if you’re going to visit another country while you’re on vacation. Since different countries use different plugs and outlets, this adapter enables you to keep using your existing phone, laptop and device chargers. All you have to do is plug the adapter into the wall and then connect everything like you normally would back home, just through the adapter. That's right, no need to rush out to buy a local iPhone charger!

Bubm Electronic Organizer

Much like a great toiletries bag, an electronics organizer can keep your tech accessories in order. Our tech pros like this pick, which features a zippered compartment for smaller essentials like SD or SIM cards as well as various elastic bands and mesh pockets for your cables and chargers. Best of all, this organizer folds up into a flat shape so you shouldn’t have any issue squeezing it into your luggage.

Unique Travel Accessories

While not all travel accessories are essential if you're tight on space, you might be grateful later on that you made that extra room in your suitcase. Packing a few key accessories can spare you the hassle of having to go shopping while on vacation, and it usually prevents you from paying tourist prices. From towels to organizers, these are our experts' favorite travel accessories to bring along with you.

Rainleaf Microfiber Towel

When you're heading on a well-deserved beach vacation, make sure to grab this microfiber towel that comes in several bright colors. According to the Textiles Lab, it’s a great choice for travel thanks to its quick-drying material s and lightweight construction. Our pros also like that it comes with a handy carrying case so it's easy to transport from the beach and back to your hotel.

READ MORE: The Best Beach Towels for Summer 2023

CamelBak Eddy+ Water Bottle with Tritan Renew

It’s important to stay hydrated while traveling, which is why our pros advise bringing a water bottle with you. Our Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab pros like this best value pick from Camelback, which is made from durable, BPA-free plastic. It includes a two-finger loop handle that makes it easy to carry around while you explore and, according to the brand, the design is leak-proof when closed.

READ MORE: 12 Best Water Bottles of 2023

Nikon Monarch M7 8x42 Binocular

Whether you’re going hiking or spending a few days on a cruise, it can be nice to observe a beautiful landscape in sharp detail. With a great pair of binoculars, you can easily spot whales far out at sea or watch birds that would have otherwise looked like flies. The Media & Tech Lab recommends this pair from Nikon for traveling, thanks to its lightweight design, impressive magnification and small close focus that makes it ideal for birding or similar activities.

READ MORE: 10 Best Binoculars for Seeing Every Detail

Dagne Dover Ace Fanny Pack

If you’ve ever been worried about your bag being snatched off your hand, a fanny pack is an easy way to keep all essential documents close to you and easy to access. Our Textiles Lab experts like this Dagne Dover pick for traveling thanks to its roomy interior compartment and organizational pockets. Our testers also rave about how durable it is should you accidentally spill something during vacation.

READ MORE: Best Fanny Packs

Etekcity Luggage Scale

For those who like to overpack or would feel better knowing how much your suitcase weighs before arriving at the airport, this gadget is for you. A luggage scale not only indicates whether you’re under or over the weight limit , but this pick is compact and lightweight so it’s easy to pack along with your other accessories. Lexi has used it herself over the years to help divide up her belongings between bags and avoid baggage fees.

Travel Hack: Why Our Experts Recommend Using Packing Cubes

Packing your suitcase and fitting everything in the right place isn’t always as easy as it sounds. While most bags these days include a compartment or two for undergarments, clothing and other essentials, items can shift around while in transit or get lost underneath a stack of shirts. To keep your bag in order, Senior Textiles Product Analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute’s Textiles Lab, Emma Seymour , recommends investing in a few packing cubes, like this set from Eagle Creek . “Packing cubes are small bags designed to keep your clothes organized and less wrinkled in your luggage,” Emma says. They not only help keep your belongings organized during your trip, but also when you arrive at your destination. When using packing cubes, Emma suggests packing your clothes into the cubes first, then fitting the pieces into your bag like a puzzle. “You can even get packing cubes with built-in compression, so squeezing in that extra outfit (or two!) is no big deal. Whether you’re backpacking or traveling with a hard-shell carry-on, “most packing cubes are available in sets that include various sizes, ideal for organizing intimates and larger pieces.” And once you’ve arrived at your destination and are unpacking your suitcase, GH pros recommend placing the packing cubes directly into the drawers to keep your clothes protected from unknown surfaces.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

For decades, the Good Housekeeping Institute has been providing expert reviews and advice on the best travel gear and accessories you can buy. Media and Tech reviews Analyst Olivia Lipski , who covers everything from consumer electronics to travel, home, fitness and more, worked with several of the product experts in the Good Housekeeping Institute to feature the best travel gear we’ve tested in our Labs as well as products that have impressed our consumer testers. Not only does she have years of product review experience under her belt, but she’s a travel enthusiast with plans to visit all seven continents (with only two more to go)!

Olivia (she/her) is a media and tech product reviews analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute , covering tech, home, auto, health and more. She has more than five years of experience writing about tech trends and innovation and, prior to joining GH in 2021, was a writer for Android Central, Lifewire and other media outlets. Olivia is a graduate of George Washington University, with a bachelor's degree in journalism, political science and French, and she holds a master’s degree in communications from Sciences Po Paris.

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The Best Travel Gear to Shop for Your Spring Getaways: Carry-On Luggage, AirTags, Packing Cubes and More

Make memorial day travel as smooth as possible this year with the best luggage, gadgets, headphones and more travel gear.

As stressful as travel can be, having the right travel gear can make a world of difference in ensuring your trip goes as smoothly as possible. Whether you're visiting family or taking a little getaway for Memorial Day, odds are you'll be doing some kind of traveling this spring. From the most-loved suitcases on the internet to gadgets for keeping track of all your belongings, we've found the best travel accessories to grab ahead of your next trip.

If your current suitcases have broken zippers or cracked exteriors, it's probably time to upgrade. You can select the uber-popular Away suitcases , or get the ever-reliable  Samsonite duo . For long flights or train rides, make your travels more comfortable with a hanging airplane footrest , noise-cancelling headphones and compression socks .

Below, check out the best travel gear to shop ahead of Memorial Day and all of your upcoming spring vacations. 

Best Travel Accessories to Stay Organized

Apple airtag.

Some of us just have a knack for losing things, and that's where the Apple AirTag steps in. This device simply needs to be attached to keys, luggage or a handbag, and they can be found wherever you left them by tracking the AirTag on your phone. 

BAGSMART Toiletry Bag

This spacious bag is suitable for both travel and home toiletry organization.

Bagail Set of 6 Packing Cubes

These packing cubes are a best seller on Amazon for keeping all your essentials organized. 

Electronic Organizer

Keep your digital accessories and gadgets organized while on the go. This sleek and compact bag is designed with the modern traveler in mind, providing a dedicated space for all your tech essentials.

Away The Large Toiletry Bag

Made with water-resistant nylon, this toiletry bag has an exterior zip pocket for grab-and-go items, plus a coated spill-proof interior to keep your cosmetics in check.

Morfone 16 Pack Travel Bottles Set for Toiletries

This TSA-approved travel bottle set includes a variety of bottles, jars and other accessories to keep your toiletries organized and prevent them from leaking. 

Calpak Terra Hanging Toiletry Bag

This travel bag can hold all of your essentials in one place, helping you save space in your luggage. Plus, it's water-resistant and can hang on the wall using the hanging hook for easy access to your toiletries. 

Samsonite NuRoad Lay Flat Toiletry Kit

Keep all your toiletries together and accessible in this flat-laying toiletry kit. It has water-resistant coating for easy clean up in case any of your products spring a leak. 

Best Travel Luggage: Suitcases, Backpacks, and Bags

Away the bigger carry-on.

Away has some of the most popular luggage on the market right now. Before you check out, this splurge-worthy travel gear also offers the opportunity to add a more personalized touch with a customizable luggage tag and a custom monogram on the suitcase itself. 

Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Carry-On

The carry-on's micro-diamond polycarbonate texture is extremely scratch-resistant, keeping it beautiful trip after trip.

The North Face Borealis Mini Backpack

The North Face Borealis Mini Backpack is a premium travel essential that can seamlessly transition from a reliable carry-on for your laptop on an airplane to a trusted companion on your exhilarating hiking adventures. Store your other travel items in this accessory for a long flight or short trip.

Samsonite Underseat Carry-On Spinner with USB Port

Compact and convenient, this soft-sided luggage can slide smoothly under the seat in front of you or be tucked away in an overhead bin. The bag's main compartment can fit several outfits and a spare pair of shoes. Interior pockets lining the compartment will keep your toiletries organized. The telescoping handle and rolling wheels make this bag easy to navigate around a crowded airport, making it a great choice for the frequent flyer looking to pack light.

$145   $100

115L Foldable Travel Duffel Bag with Shoes Compartment

For weekend trips as well as the gym, this waterproof duffel bag has a ventilated side pocket for keeping your shoes separate from the rest of your luggage.

ZORFIN Fanny Pack

Keep your passport, wallet, phone, or other small items within reach with this crossbody fanny pack. Pack this travel accessory in your carry-on suitcase to use during your trip.

Ecosusi Laptop Tote

Keep all of your essentials handy with this stylish laptop tote, complete with plenty of pockets to help you stay organized.

Best Travel Gear for Long Trips

Apple airpods pro (2nd generation).

Apple's latest iteration of the brand's best earbuds are some of the best you can buy. They connect seamlessly to iOS devices and serve up to 30 hours of listening time and even longer with their charging case. 

$249   $189

Napfun Neck Pillow for Traveling

Neck pillows are a classic travel essential that will keep you comfortable during flights and long car rides.

Everlasting Comfort Airplane Footrest

This ergonomic memory foam footrest hangs from the tray table for a much more comfortable flight.

Etekcity Luggage Scale

Never have to worry about the overweight baggage fee by checking the weight of your luggage before you go to the airport.

Beats Studio3 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones

Not only will you have remarkable sound quality with these headphones, but you'll also enjoy their Pure Adaptive Noise Cancelling technology that adapts to your surroundings to calibrate the audio in real time.

$350   $159

COSRX Advanced Snail Hydrogel Eye Patch

Fight those dark circles and fine lines with these COSRX Advanced Snail Hydrogel eye patches with its hydrating, plumping and brightening formula.

Apple AirPods (2nd Generation) with Charging Case

Experience high-quality sound without breaking the bank with these earbuds from Apple.

CHARMKING Compression Socks for Circulation

If you have a long flight ahead of you, you might want to add compression socks to your ultimate travel packing list.

Wet Ones Antibacterial Hand Wipes, 20 Count

Stay safe from viruses and germs while traveling with Wet Ones Antibacterial Hand Wipes.

Other Travel Gear Essentials

Atumtek selfie stick tripod.

Ramp up your travel photography game with this selfie stick and tripod duo. The set includes a selfie stick that extends up to 60 inches long, a tripod for the perfect group shot, and a Bluetooth remote to snap the perfect vacation picture.

EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter

Getting ready for a vacation abroad? Add this travel accessory to your packing list. This all-in-one travel essential is usable worldwide in over 150+ different countries, ensuring you can plug in your phone charger, hair tools and more.

Collapsible Water Bottle

This collapsible water bottle easily shrinks to fit into your purse or carry-on.

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The 12 Best Packing Cubes for Travel

Streamline your pre-trip preparations with these time-saving packing accessories.

By Sean Tirman and Hayley Helms

Every product is carefully selected by our editors. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission.  Learn more

The many minimalists among us will assert that there is really only one right way to pack luggage : efficiently. Thus, one travel accessory most Gear Patrol staffers won’t hit the road without is packing cubes. These mini organizational tools are a low-lift way to keep your bag tidy; they offer some modularity (so you can customize them to the suitcase you’re packing ), and you can even use them to compartmentalize your travel gear (keeping your travel pants separate from your dress shirts and other travel gear , for instance). Whether you’re packing a hard-sided roller , a duffel or a carry-on backpack , packing cubes streamline the process, so you never have to worry if you packed your extra pair of socks, undies or favorite jacket.

Products in the Guide

Best Overall Packing Cubes

Best Upgrade Packing Cubes

Most Versatile Packing Cubes

Best Expandable Set of Packing Cubes

Best Budget Packing Cubes

Best Packing Cubes on Amazon

Most Rugged Packing Cubes

Best Packing Cubes for Organization

Best Ultralight Packing Cubes

Best Luxury Packing Cubes

Most Colorful Packing Cubes

Packing Cubes With the Most Color Options

How to Use Packing Cubes (the Right Way)

The truth of the matter is that packing cubes are really not that complicated, and if you just want to stuff and/or shove all your clothes into one, you can do just that. But if you want to maximize their effectiveness, there are a few tips and tricks you might want to follow — and we’ve outlined them below.

Compartmentalize

There are two schools of thought regarding how to pack in a packing cube. The first is that each cube hosts one type of item — pants in one, shirts in another, socks and underwear in yet another, etc. This can help keep you organized when you travel and will also ensure you’re not rooting around in desperate search for a specific garment when the time comes. The other is that you can pack a full day’s worth of supplies into a single cube — meaning you’d just have your full outfit in a single bag rather than multiples.

We’ve found that the latter method works best for shorter trips and the former works best for longer ones, generally speaking. But you can and should figure out what works best for you through trial and error.

Roll, Don’t Fold

While folding (or hanging) your clothing might work at home in your dresser or closet, you can actually maximize your packing space by rolling your clothes into tight burrito-like rolls. Not only will this allow you to fit more into the same space, but it can help guard against wrinkles just as well, so long as you’re cautious and conscientious with your rolling.

Be Strategic About Sizes

While there are no standardized sizes for packing cubes, you should be careful when choosing which ones to use for which bags. A huge packing cube isn’t going to do you much good if it’s the same size as your carry-on and your checked luggage will be a pain to manage if you have to stuff 50 different tiny cubes into it. Think of packing your cubes into your suitcase like Tetris — there are lots of possible winning combinations, but you still want to be clever and careful with how you pack them, which sizes you choose and where you put them.

If your bag has compression straps, we highly recommend using them. They’ll help compress your cubes (and clothes) into a smaller area than you might be able to manage yourself, giving you more packing space than you might otherwise expect.

Don’t Assume They’re Good for Everything

Packing cubes aren’t the end-all-be-all of packing. In fact, it can be risky to use them for all your travel gear. For instance, toiletries probably belong in a waterproof dopp kit instead of a packing cube, as they were designed for things like haircare and skincare products, whereas a packing cube might have a mesh exterior — meaning if you stuff some toothpaste into a packing cube and it bursts, you could end up with toothpaste all over everything in your bag. Use your noggin and you should be fine.

How We Tested

Peak Design Packing Cube

• $30.00 at peakdesign.com
• Versatile and comprehensive
• Surprisingly good-looking
• Can't see what's inside
• Material: 100% recycled 70D nylon/polyester
• Number of bags: 1-8
• Size Range: S-M

Peak Design has won over crowds of photographers with its innovative camera accessories and bags. It’s no surprise that when it launched a travel collection that also turned out to be incredible. The Travel Backpack anchors the line, but the under-the-radar winner might be the Packing Cubes . They’re available in two sizes, small and medium; they also expand and contract with clever zippers to accommodate more or less stuff and include a second compartment for dirties that gets bigger as the ratio of clean-to-dirty changes. There’s also a shoe pouch that’s perfect for bringing along footwear.

One other feature our tester loved is the opening mechanism: it uses two zippers on separate tracks divided by a tab you simply pull up for fast access. If our tester could change one thing, however, it would be adding a see-through panel so they could see what’s inside each cube without opening them.

Away The Insider Packing Cubes

• $3,237.00 at Away
• Designed for use with popular Away luggage
• Water resistant
• Seven available colorways
• Somewhat expensive
• Material: Nylon
• Number of bags: 6
• Size Range: XS-XL

These strategically structured cubes from one of our favorite wheeled carry-on luggage brands fit perfectly in Away’s luggage — and presumably fit pretty well into any standard-size rolling carry-on. The waterproof nylon exterior keeps clothes free from dust and the mesh top allows you to see everything you packed, so you’re not scrambling to find that one button-up you need for the rehearsal dinner. The cubes come in nine colors, and while this is the priciest option here, you’re getting a total of six cubes, the most of any package deal on this list.

OEE Packing Cubes

• $12.00 at Amazon $13.00 (8% off)
• As versatile as they come
• A whopping 13 size/color options
• Size range: S-L

With a whopping six size options to choose from, OEE takes the cake for most versatile packing cube option. The nylon cubes are washable and water-resistant thanks to YKK zippers and have interior buckles to keep everything in its place. Use these to pack items from toiletries to clothing and everything in between.

REI Co-op Expandable Packing Cubes

• $45.00 at REI
• Four unique colorways
• Made from recycled materials
• Only three size options
• Number of bags: 3

Made of ripstop nylon with a DWR (durable water repellent) coating, REI’s three-cube set is as sturdy and reliable as they come. If you’re the fastidious type, the mesh windows are for placing cards listing each cube’s contents. These cubes also feature a compression system similar to that of Peak Design and Eagle Creek, plus user-friendly top and side handles.

eBags Classic Packing Cubes

• $17.00 at Amazon $20.00 (15% off)
• Super inexpensive
• Versatile (many size options)
• Not the most durable
• Kind of ugly
• Material: TechLite Diamond nylon

These packing cubes come in three sizes and are made from TechLite Diamond nylon. Each has a self-healing zipper, so the bag is guaranteed for its lifetime, which is pretty hard to beat. Mesh top panels remind you what’s in each cube, and multiple color options allow you to coordinate with your carry-on — if that’s how you roll.

Our tester actually used these cubes over the course of years, to the point that a couple of them are getting worn out. That is to say: they really love these bags, especially for anyone looking for a reliable, long-lasting budget option.

Shacke Pak Packing Cubes

• $22.00 at Amazon $25.00 (12% off)
• Exceptional value proposition
• Sturdy zippers
• Not great looking
• Somewhat bulky
• Chemical smell
• Number of bags: 5
• Size range: S-XL

You don’t garner more than 13,000 five-star ratings on Amazon without making something people can count on. And that’s what you get with the Shacke Pak, four durable, differently sized nylon cubes with mesh windows for visibility and x-shaped reinforcements to keep them from squishing or folding during travel — plus a laundry sack for stashing dirty clothes. In short, quite a lot of value for the price.

Mystery Ranch Zoid Packing Cubes

• $24.00 at mysteryranch.com
• Can be purchased individually
• Super durable
• Seven colorways
• Expensive for single bags
• Material: 210d Hitra Robic nylon
• Number of bags: 1
• Size range : S-L

Mystery Ranch is known for its bomb-proof outdoor items, and its Zoid Packing Cubes continue that trend. Three different sizes (245 cu-in, 505 cu-in and 885 cu-in) mean you don’t have to compromise your wardrobe on the go, and lightweight yet durable 210d Hitra Robic nylon and YKK zippers up the hard-working aspects of the packs. The mesh lid provides visibility into the cube, making it simple to grab and go.

Our tester loves the durability of these cubes, as well as the semi-transparent top panels — which make it easier to discern what’s inside of them at-a-glance. However, the fact that each must be bought individually is a big drawback, as it can get pricey fast.

Tumi Double-Sided Packing Cubes

• Double-sided for better organization
• Only two sizes available
• Size range: M-L

This nylon packing cube does double duty with dual compartments — and it has a larger brother to expand on its versatility and organizational options. At under half a pound each, Tumi’s packing cubes fit everything you need and nothing you don’t. The dual compartments make it easy to organize by clothing type or for the cleanliness-conscious, to divide worn and unworn items.

Osprey Ultralight Packing Cube Set

• $12.00 at osprey.com $42.00 (71% off)
• Incredibly lightweight
• Can't see what's inside when closed
• Somewhat small
• Material: 40D ripstop nylon

Anybody that travels a lot can tell you that every ounce makes a difference when it comes to packing. Unfortunately, that means your packing cubes are eating up some of your bag’s weight. You can limit that as much as possible, however, with these incredibly lightweight cubes from lauded pack brand Osprey. This three-pack will have you organized and ready to go without costing you too much on weight.

If only these packing cubes had a transparent window, they might be perfect, according to our tester. Still, even without that, these are tough contenders for their combination of durability, ultralight weight, and super thin material (which saves on space).

Leatherology Nested Travel Organizer Trio

• $275.00 at Leatherology
• Beautifully made
• Five colors available
• Not vegan / vegetarian friendly
• Extremely expensive
• Material: Leather
• Number of bags: 1 or 3

As rugged as it can be, nylon isn’t for everyone. If you’re a fan of the finer things, however, you’re not out of luck when it comes to packing cubes. That’s because the folks at Leatherology have made this set out of top-grain leather (in your choice of five different handsome colorways). And while they work great in use, they also nest inside one another to make storing them easier when you’re not using them.

Cotopaxi Cubos Del Dia Travel Cubes

• Good quality to price ratio
• Only three sizes
• Can't pick your own colorways
• Material: Repurposed nylon and mesh

Cotopaxi has done wonders in using recycled materials that would otherwise be discarded in landfills. And these packing cubes are prime examples of just that. Made from nylon and mesh, albeit recycled, they’re just as tough and capable as any of the others on our list. Plus, they come in vibrant, unique colorways — no two are exactly the same. The only downside: you can’t pick your colors. You get what you get.

Calpak Packing Cubes

• $34.00 at Calpak
• Available in single, duo, trio, and quintet sets
• 14 colorways to choose from
• A little expensive compared to others
• Polyester isn't the best material
• Material: Polyester
• Number of bags: 1-5
• Size range: XS-L

With a whopping 14 different colorways (including some sold-out special editions), Calpak’s packing cubes come in more available styles than just about any others on our list. And while we don’t love polyester (especially when nylon is an option elsewhere for comparable prices), these cubes are so versatile and stylish its hard not to love them, especially for anyone who puts style at the top of their list of gear wants.

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9 Best Bike Bags for City Commutes and Long-Haul Adventures—Tested and Reviewed

No matter how much gear you have, these can handle it.

This journey wasn't just about racking up miles ; it was an odyssey that put every conceivable type of bike bag to the test, from sleek frame bags that hug the contours of his bike like a 2000s tailored suit to rugged panniers ready for a tumble and still come out looking picture-perfect.

Best Travel Bag for Carrying a Bike

Thule roundtrip road bike travel case.

Best Bike Bag for Commuting

Brompton x bear grylls waterproof backpack.

Best Bag for Bikepacking

Apidura expedition full frame pack.

Best Handlebar Bike Bag

Rapha bar bag.

Best Everyday Bike Bag

Orucase saddle bag.

Best Hydration Bag for Biking

Camelbak m.u.l.e. pro 14.

Best Bike Panniers

Ortlieb back-roller classic panniers.

Best Bag For Bike Tools

Lezyne flow tool caddy pro.

Best Looking Bag for Cycling

Moral code tide vegan backpack.

Through this shared adventure, coupled with an amount of research that could rival a doctoral thesis , I've compiled a list of the crème de la crème of bike bags. Each one is a story of durability, functionality, and sometimes, sheer style because, let's face it, even the most rugged of cyclists doesn't mind a bit of flair. So, whether you're a seasoned pedaler or a casual cruiser, join me on this quest through the best bike bags out there. Oh, and if you need the best bike racks or helmets , we have guides for those too.

This travel bike case is a premier solution for transporting your road, gravel, or cyclocross bike easily and safely during long-haul travels. Its integrated work stand not only guarantees your bike's safe transit but also facilitates hassle-free maintenance and assembly/disassembly. This case promises not just to carry your bike but to protect and maintain it every step of the journey.

Crafted from 100 percent recycled waterproof material, the Brompton x Bear Grylls Backpack is environmentally friendly and resilient against the elements—making it perfect for daily commutes in any weather. Its seamless integration with Brompton bikes, attaching securely with a quick click to the front, enhances the commuting experience by providing a hassle-free way to carry essentials. This collaboration with Bear Grylls aims to inspire adventure in the everyday, blending the functionality of urban cycling with the spirit of exploration.

The Expedition Full Frame Pack from Apidura is the ultimate game-changer in bike packing. Imagine you're gearing up for a long haul and have a load of stuff—think cooking gear, water bladders, tent poles, the whole shebang.

This genius pack slots right into your bike's main triangle, giving you tons of space without messing with your ride, thanks to its clever low center of gravity. It's like the best buddy for adventurers who don't want to leave behind their essentials for those epic trips. The way it's designed, you can load it up and still keep your bike feeling nimble and easy to handle, no matter how challenging the trail gets.

This versatile pack becomes the perfect partner for those trips where you need just a bit more room to pack your essentials. Crafted with waterproof fabric, it keeps your belongings dry if you get caught in a downpour. It snugly attaches to your bike using two solid fixture points and sturdy Hyperlon straps, staying put no matter the terrain.

Plus, the quick-release buckles mean you can snap it off in a flash. Need to be seen when the sun goes down? The reflective webbing is a neat feature that lets you attach lights, keeping you visible and safe. With a 2L main compartment complete with internal mesh pockets and a handy quick access pocket, it's a compact yet mighty addition to your gear. And if the ride calls for versatility, this pack smoothly transitions into an over-the-shoulder bag, thanks to the additional strap.

Ever find yourself needing just the right bag for everyday rides, no matter the terrain or weather? This is your bag. It comes in two sizes, giving you the freedom to carry just the essentials or pack in a bit more for those just-in-case moments, perfect for mountain bikers, road enthusiasts, or gravel grinders alike.

What really sets this saddle bag apart is its rugged, waterproof ripstop fabric. Made from X-PAC material by Dimension-Polyant, it ensures whatever you stash inside stays dry and safe, even when you're powering through a torrential downpour or blasting over muddy trails. Plus, the bag features an integrated Bartacked Hypalon attachment loop, making it super simple to open and close, even when you're on the move.

Heading out for a ride and need to keep hydrated? This bag’s a great pick if you want something light but tough. With its 3D Vent Mesh Harness, it’s super breathable and comfy to carry. There’s also a big three-liter water pouch that lets you drink on the go, and a handy hip belt for your must-haves. Whether it’s a short ride or an all-day adventure, this pack’s ready for anything, even fitting an Impact Protector and an e-bike battery.

These Ortlieb Back-Roller bike panniers are built to withstand whatever the weather throws at you, thanks to their tough coated polyester fabric and roll-top closure that keeps water out.

You won't have to leave anything behind with a 40-liter gear capacity. (That's 20 liters each, for those keeping score.) There's plenty of room for food, extra clothes, toiletries, and other essentials. The QL2.1 mounting system makes attaching these to racks (up to 16 mm tube diameter) a breeze and comes with adapters for smaller sizes too. Plus, there's an inner pocket for smaller items, large reflectors for visibility, and a shoulder strap for easy carrying off the bike.

Sold as a pair, these panniers are praised for their top-notch quality and design, featuring remarkably good latches and overall capacity.

Ever been biking, rummaging through a pile of gear for your tube and tools, feeling the frustration mount? Well, say goodbye to those days with the Lezyne Flow Tool Caddy Pro. This tool bag is a game-changer for cyclists who value organization and convenience. Its sleek, ergonomic design not only fits perfectly in your water bottle cage but also offers easy access and smart storage while you're on the move.

With internal compartments that include a zippered section and a mesh pocket, this caddy ensures your tube, CO2 canisters, and multi-tools are neatly organized and always within reach. And when you're dealing with a flat by the roadside, the full 180-degree zipper opening means you'll have everything you need right at your fingertips, hassle-free.

If you're heading out for quick ride around town and want to do it in style, the Tide backpack is our pick. It's practicality and sleek, making it a top pick for cyclists who appreciate both form and function. With its waterproof capabilities, you won't have to worry about getting caught in a downpour, and its durability means it can handle the rough and tumble of city life.

But what really sets the Tide backpack apart for us is the brand's commitment to style without sacrificing sustainability. It's made from recycled plastic bottles with vegan apple leather accents. The classic flap design gives you easy access to the main compartment, ensuring everything you need is just a zipper away. Plus, with extra pockets, your smaller essentials are always within reach.

What to Look for in a Bike Bag

When diving into the vast sea of bike bags, it's easy to get swept away by the sheer variety and advertised features. However, focusing on a few key factors can help you navigate these waters.

Type of Cycling - For the rugged off-roader, durability and water resistance are your best mates. Urban commuters, on the other hand, might prioritize ease of access and reflective elements for twilight rides.

Capacity and Compartments - Think Mary Poppins' bag, but for cyclists. You want enough space to stash your essentials but with savvy compartments to avoid a chaotic treasure hunt whenever you need your keys.

Attachment systems - A bag that fits snugly and securely on your bike is like a faithful sidekick, ready for any adventure without causing a ruckus.

Material - Look for lightweight yet sturdy fabrics that can handle adverse weather conditions and keep your belongings safe and dry.

Why Trust Esquire?

We don't have all the answers, but we're definitely not slacking on the research front, and we make it a point to chat with the experts. Our circle includes a bunch of recreational cyclists who are always on the move, giving us the lowdown on which bike racks are hitting the mark and which ones are missing it by miles. Toss in our own in-depth research, and you're looking at the best advice on the internet. We're here to guide you through the dizzying array of choices, slicing through the clutter to spotlight bike bags that truly excel in durability, user-friendliness, and versatility.

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The Best Camera Bags of 2024

From hikes to crowded events and everything in between — you need a camera bag to protect your precious, and pricey equipment. We’ve put our favorites through their paces to bring you the best camera bags of the year.

Whether you’re an amateur who loves shooting on nature walks or a professional with back-to-back events, having a functional, high-quality camera bag in your tool kit is critical. 

With so many types of bags available, choosing the best one for your needs can be hard. The best camera bag provides padding and protection for your expensive gear, is comfortable for long days of shooting, and offers easy access during those can’t-miss moments. 

With years of professional photography experience, tester Katelyn Clement tested seven satchel camera bags varying in size, protection level, and features. Her goal: to find the best camera bags for all photographers, from the point-and-shooter to the event-going professional.

In her 8-year career, Clement has photographed several large concert events, video shoots, and outdoor excursions. She has shimmied through tight crowds and trekked up muddy trails enough to know that a reliable camera bag is necessary to keep camera gear safe, and her worries about that expensive gear in check. 

We tested on hiking trails, at crowded events in music venues, and many scenarios in between. Whether you need a simple option for everyday use or a multicompartment hauler for your camera quiver, we’ve got you covered. Scroll through to see all of our recommended models. Check out our buyer’s guide , comparison chart , and FAQ to learn more.

• Best Overall Camera Bag: Tenba DNA 16 PRO Messenger Bag
• Best Budget Camera Bag: Ruggard Hunter 35 DSLR Holster
• Best Camera Bag for Event Shoots: WANDRD Rogue Sling 9L
• Best Protective Camera Bag: Peak Design Everyday Sling V2 6L

Tenba DNA 16 PRO Messenger Bag

• Weight 2.9 lbs., /1.32 kg
• Outside dimensions 15.75" x 12" x 7.5"
• Inside dimensions 14.75"x 11.5" x 6"
• Materials TPU-coated material (waterproof) with YKK zippers.

• Exclusive Whisper Hook closure, flap
• Quick-access top zipper
• Big padded computer slot
• Lots of inside room
• Inserts foldover top
• Whole insert comes out
• Plentiful pockets
• Fits so much that it can get heavy for a shoulder bag
• May be a little too bulky for short and smaller framed photographers

Finding a bag as universal as the Tenba DNA 16 PRO Messenger Bag ($200) is akin to finding a unicorn. Why do we say that? Well, this modern bag not only holds a ton of gear but also makes it extremely easy to access so you never miss a shot.   

One thing about the Tenba brand, in particular, is its exclusive Whisper Hook design that allows the closure clip to slide and release with ease and securely clip back together. The more gear you have, the harder it is to unclip, but the straps adjust to accommodate the amount of gear you need to carry.

This bag also has an easy-access top zipper large enough so you can dig around for a specific lens without having to put your bag down to unhook the flap. Photography is all about capturing unexpected moments; the Pro Messenger bag is designed so you can do this with speed and ease.   

This bag was full of surprises since it felt like we kept discovering a new pocket or compartment. Our tester took this bag to a professional photo shoot at a concert and easily fit two camera bodies, four lenses, a laptop, and two water bottles, and attached a tripod using the side straps.

The one downside to all this space? It got heavy fast! At hour 2 of this 5-hour event, Clement found the bag wasn’t supportive enough to carry that much gear, so she had to find a secure area backstage for the bag.  Though the adjustable, padded strap makes carrying this bag easy and comfortable for a short amount of time, she found that if it’s loaded up her neck and shoulders start to ache. Clement also found the bag was a little too big for her body frame at 5’6” and 140 pounds. 

With its waterproof material and seam-sealed base, the Tenba fared very well when taken outside. And while the TPU-coated material does keep your gear dry, it gets a little warm in the heat, so it may make you sweat. Bonus feature: the bag comes with a rain sleeve that works well in a downpour.  

This bag may be a little pricey, but it is one of the most durable, versatile camera bags out there. It could easily become a bag you take to the office for work or one you use for exploring a new city along with your camera. If used as a traditional camera bag for professional photographers, the Tenba DNA 16 PRO Messenger Bag is the perfect accessory for large events like weddings and banquets.

Ruggard Hunter 35 DSLR Holster Bag

• Weight 0.64 lbs. / 0.29 kg
• Outside dimensions 7.3” x 5.3” x 8.25”
• Inside dimensions 6.5” x 4.5” x 7.0”
• Materials Water-repellent exterior and smooth polyester lining, mesh pocket

• Quick-release buckle
• Adjustable, removable shoulder strap
• Weather resistant
• Card slots so you never run out of memory
• Front zipper pocket keeps accessories organized
• Very padded
• Plastic clips may break
• Only fits crop sensors and smaller cameras
• The mesh side pocket isn’t very thick

If you’re just starting out as a photographer or are a pro going light for the day, the Ruggard Hunter 35 DSLR Holster Bag ($16) is a great way to protect and carry that single camera body and lens. 

Although the most affordable option on our list, this holster bag has a generous amount of padding for its size. The front zippered pocket, also padded, leaves just enough room for small accessories, while the interior has two SD card pockets just inside the lid. The padded handle allows you to carry without the risk of stressing your hand. 

The zippered top allows for quick, easy access and opens away from your body, so no one but you can use it. The adjustable strap lets you decide the length accordingly, and the nylon is strong enough to handle the weight. However, the plastic clips seem like they would break if put under enough force. 

The weather-resistant material keeps your camera dry in light rain, and the accessory strap allows the user to wear this bag in two different ways: around the shoulder or at the hip. Outdoors, this bag proved to be durable and easy to carry. The only issue we had with this bag is that it can only fit a smaller setup and does not have room for extra lenses due to its shape and size.

The Ruggard Hunter 35 DSLR Holster Bag is perfect for quick, on-the-go photography with a single DSLR camera and one attached lens. There is plenty of room for several extra SD cards and a couple of spare batteries, so it’s a simple, well-padded, protected way to carry all you need for a day of shooting. 

Wandrd Rogue Sling 9L

• Weight 1.74 lbs. / 0.79 kg
• Outside dimensions 8.5"X 13.5" X 7"
• Inside dimensions 7.75” X 13" X 5"
• Materials 840D Jr. Ballistic nylon with 5PM coating, (weather resistant) 1680D ballistic nylon, weather-resistant YKK zippers

• Does not fall forward when you reach into it
• Three ways to carry
• Weather-resistant
• Three grab handles and key clip
• Tripod straps work well
• Fits 16" laptop
• Comes in a variety of sizes for different needs (3L, 6L, and 9L)
• When using the laptop pocket, the laptop hangs out, unprotected
• Sides aren’t very well padded

The WANDRD Rogue Sling 9L ($159) is an extremely comfortable bag with several unique qualities and many forms of protection.  

Available in several colors and three sizes (3L, 6L, and 9L), this bag can be carried over the shoulder, as a messenger bag, or “fanny pack” style. It has easily adjustable straps and three different grab handles.

Additional features make this a great option: extra straps to hold a compact tripod, clips in front for key rings, plentiful pockets for memory cards and accessories, and a “secret” pocket at the base for an umbrella, light rain jacket, or water bottle.

Thanks to these features, its waterproof material, and enough padding to protect a full-frame camera body and two to three spare lenses, this 9L bag is perfect for hiking. We found it very comfortable while on walks and appreciated that it protected our camera gear, water bottles, and snacks from a light rain halfway through the hike. 

Even with three carry options, this bag is well-balanced, easy to access, and doesn’t tip forward when we are digging through it. While we shot a 4-hour event in a concert hall, the strap remained comfortable and never caused an achy neck or shoulder.

Compared to the Tenba DNA 16 PRO Messenger Bag , Clement found that this bag allowed her to carry the amount of gear needed, but was easier to handle with her size and frame.  This bag kept our gear dry from outdoor elements and it also protected us from a syrupy drink spilled on us at the concert venue. The weather-resistant material is also easy to clean. 

Our only concern is that although the WANDRD bag does have a 16-inch laptop slot, there is a zipper you have to undo on the underside to give that sized laptop room to fit. This means the laptop hangs unprotected from the bottom of the bag and has limited protection on the sides. This wouldn’t be a problem for a wearer with a tablet, smaller laptop, or no device at all.

This bag is one of the more comfortable, even when we packed it full of gear. It provides considerable padding and has adjustable inserts for different-sized lenses or camera bodies, making it ideal for shooting events where you need to constantly change lenses. Since the inserts are adjustable and removable, the WANDRD Rogue Sling 9L is versatile and great for other uses like travel. It does come in three sizes (3L, 6L, 9L), so finding the size right for you and your needs is easy. 

Peak Design Everyday Sling V2 6L

• Weight 1.72 lbs. / 0.78 kg
• Outside dimensions 13.39-10.63” x 5.12-4.33” x 9.45”
• Inside dimensions 11-9”x 4.33-3.5” x 8.27”
• Materials 400D double poly-coated DWR-impregnated nylon canvas shell. 100% recycled post-consumer material, nylon interior. Hardware is anodized aluminum and glass-reinforced nylon (weatherproof)

• Dedicated tablet sleeve with magnetic closure
• Divider shelves aid in organization & increase versatility
• Shell is 100% recycled
• Inside stretchy pockets increase storage and organization
• Top of the dividers fold over for added protection
• Tripod and external carry clips allow for extra gear
• Weatherproof
• Comes in 3L, 6L, and 10L for varying needs
• Rigid dividers
• The inside side pouches are too small for anything
• Inner zipper pocket fits only small things
• Front zipper pocket is very flat

The Peak Design Everyday V2 6L Sling ($120) is a slick, sleek sling that provides enough padding and safety for your camera and two to three lenses. With two different ways to wear, cross-body or over the shoulder, this bag allows easy access to your camera and provides room for many accessories. 

On hikes, the Peak Design sling proved extremely durable and comfortable. Its weatherproof recycled 400D shell keeps gear safe with its thick insulation layer. And even after hours in the sun, this material stayed cool and didn’t overheat. We loved how the swivel clips and padded strap made it easy to swing the bag around to the front for quick access. Additional quick-grab hooks and straps mean you can attach a tripod on the bottom. 

The inside of the bag has adjustable shelf dividers, allowing you to customize what you bring, and how you pack and organize your gear. You can fit a camera with two lenses on either side or stack two small lenses with the shelf used as a divider. 

The dedicated tablet sleeve is ideal for bringing along a small screen and has a magnet to keep it closed. Although we could fit an iPad, the sleeve is a bit short, exposing some of the iPad. The sleeve is thick enough to protect from rubbing up against your other gear. 

We felt that some of the storage options fell short. The outside pocket is small and compressed so it is best used for flatter gear like memory cards, phones, or spare batteries. The two inner side pockets are small, making them hard to get into, so they would be best for extra straps. 

While tested against the WANDRD Rogue Sling 9L and Tenba DNA 16 PRO Messenger Bag , Clement found the Peak stiffer and harder to stretch or open. However, the Peak bag could hold the same amount of gear as the WANDRD bag, even though its design was a bit sleeker. 

The Peak Design Everyday V2 6L bag is perfect for everyday carry and discreet enough for street photography. It can be used for simple photo sessions, smaller events, vacations, and hikes. This V2 series comes in 3, 6, and 10 L. We recommend the 6L or 10L bag if you need more than a basic DSLR and lens.

Amazon Basics Large DSLR Gadget Bag

• Weight 1.56 lbs. / 0.71 kg
• Outer dimensions 15” x 7.9” x 11.8”
• Inner dimensions 11” x 6.5” x 7.5”
• Materials Polyester, nylon, Velcro

• Slot for a small tablet
• Room for a full frame camera and extra lens
• Lots of side pockets
• Rubber feet on bottom
• Access to gear is a bit cumbersome
• Plastic clasps seem flimsy

The Amazon Basics Large DSLR Gadget Bag ($43) is true to its name; it is a great, basic camera bag. With tons of pockets and adjustable inserts, it can fit a full-frame camera body, two to three lenses, and a decent amount of gear like cards, batteries, and a small tablet. 

If you’re feeling brave, more gear could fit into this bag. The inside is surprisingly roomy for how small the bag first seems, and the extra pockets stretch out a small amount.

This well-padded bag protects your gear, and it even boasts rubber feet at the base, so there are no worries about wearing down the bottom when you need to set it down. 

Although the material is not considered “water resistant,” it does well at repelling moisture. During a hot day outside, the bag got a little warm, but it kept the camera and gear relatively cool. 

One of our gripes was the difficulty we had getting into the bag quickly. There is no easy-access zipper or opening, so you must unclip and open the top of the bag toward your body. But there is a “belt loop” where you can hook your camera body, or even a spare camera, for quick grabs in fast moments.

Our other concern is that the straps are not the most supportive so the bag can feel a little heavy and get hard on the neck and shoulders depending on how much gear you pack. If you’re used to bringing your entire kit on every walk or adventure, you’ll want to be more choosy when using this bag. 

The Amazon Basics Large DSLR Gadget Bag is a good starter bag for a reasonable price. If you’re a photographer who doesn’t lug around a lot of accessories, or if you work smaller events that don’t require a huge amount of gear, this is the bag for you. 

Fosoto Waterproof Anti-Shock Camera Bag

• Weight 0.58 lbs. / 0.26 kg
• Outer dimensions 7.8” x 5.9” x 4.3”
• Inner dimensions 7” x 5.1” x 3.9”
• Materials Nylon, mesh pocket

• Adjustable and comfortable strap
• Water-resistant bag is equipped with extra rain cover
• Padded anti-shock interior
• Cannot go into water or heavy downpour
• Not a lot of extra space
• Plastic clips could break

Like the Ruggard Hunter 35 DSLR Bag , the FOSOTO Waterproof Anti-Shock Bag ($21) is mainly for smaller-bodied cameras. It is an ideal holster bag for nature walks or simple vacations. 

This bag can be worn over the shoulder or at your hip. The excess strap could be used to carry a compact tripod; anything larger would exceed the size of the bag. The quick-release buckle allows easy DSLR access, and the anti-shock interior and padding keep the gear safe from outside forces. 

The inside zipper mesh pocket holds small gear like extra cords, batteries, and memory cards. The mesh is slightly thinner than other bags with a mesh pouch, and the zipper does not run as smoothly but does stretch enough to fit small accessories.  

The water-resistant exterior keeps your camera dry in light rain, and the rain cover that comes with it protects against heavier showers. It also stayed reasonably cool while in warm weather. 

It provides enough protection for a small-to-medium DSLR, and it is easy to carry with the straps. While testing, Clement found that the top handle also made it easy to move the bag around her body while taking photos. It was lightweight enough to keep her neck and shoulders from getting too fatigued after a few hours of walking. 

The FOSOTO Waterproof Anti-Shock Bag is perfect for beginner or hobbyist photographers. It is compact and provides enough protection that a professional photographer could easily fit into a larger camera bag. Given its protection, the low price point makes the bag a solid, affordable option.

CADeN Canvas Camera Bag

• Weight 1.87 lbs. / 0.85 kg
• Outside dimensions 16” x 8”x 9.5”
• Inside dimensions 11.81” x 5.12”x 7.87”
• Materials Canvas fabric, polyester, waterproof faux leather straps

• A tripod can be attached at the bottom
• Waterproof canvas
• Removable inserts can be used to make a small duffle bag
• Stylish design
• No padding on the outside
• Not a lot of organization in the pockets
• Snaps aren’t the best
• Not super comfortable to carry

As far as aesthetics go, the CADeN Canvas Camera Bag ($55) is for photographers who enjoy that vintage travel look. It is made of thick, waterproof canvas with leather straps and brass buckles. There are hidden snaps under these buckles, so you can quickly access your gear by simply unsnapping them without needing to unbuckle anything. 

The side pockets could be great for storing a water bottle or cleaning tools like a microfiber cloth or lens blower. We found this bag, designed to be worn over the shoulder, a bit too cumbersome even with the adjustable strap.

The adjustable straps mean the bag can fit a wide range of people, but the straps don’t really stay put if you are running or moving around a lot. The zippers, although strong, don’t move as smoothly as the zippers on some other bags. 

The inserts are not as padded as other bags we tested, but they are removable meaning the CADeN could be used as an overnight duffle rather than the traditional camera bag. The inserts could also be replaced with more padded options.  This bag, which also has straps for a tripod, could easily hold a bigger camera body and a couple of lenses, but we worry that the canvas wouldn’t be enough to protect such a load.  

At a mid-level price, the CADeN is a decent bag with stylish aesthetics; the worn canvas and leather straps are detailed to the last stitch. Its discreet look means it could be used for small events or street photography.

However, if you don’t have a lot of gear to put around the inserts, they are not stable enough to stay in place and could cause shifting within the bag. If you have a lot of gear, it quickly gets heavy on your shoulders. This bag is ideal for situations where you can put the bag down often or store it somewhere during the shoot. 

Overall, the CADeN Canvas Camera Bag is a beautiful option for casual photographers with light gear looking for just enough pockets and a roomy interior. 

Camera Bags Comparison Chart

How We Tested Camera Bags

The best way to test a camera bag is to fill it with the gear you need and put it to use “in the wild.” So, that’s exactly what our tester, Katelyn Clement, and her partner, Ethan Weise (also a professional photographer), did. With 20 years of photography experience, this dynamic duo made the ideal team to determine each bag’s performance.  

Clement’s first goal was to test whether manufacturer claims for materials between “water resistant” and completely “weatherproof” held up. Cameras, lenses, and associated equipment are never cheap. And, you don’t want something as simple as a fabric to damage an expensive lens.  

In addition to photography experience, Clement and her partner have almost 30 years of outdoor experience. They hike, camp, and raft in every free moment. They hiked these bags through forests and along muddy creeks for a couple of months. They set them down in wet gravel and used them in snow, rain, and sunshine.

Their discovery? Practically all manufacturers were honest when they claimed materials were water-resistant or weatherproof. A few of the less durable bags may show signs of wear sooner (we’ll report on this in our next update), but they survived our initial outdoor test.

The next test came when our testers were hired for photo events. Some of these bags are geared toward professional photographers, so she knew they needed to be compared against one another. At crowded events, bumps and spilled or sloshed drinks are inevitable. Thus, they offered a great opportunity to test durability and protection.

And, of course, comfort is key for any type of camera bag. They also made sure to wear each bag for at least a few hours at a time without a break.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Camera Backpack

The best way to choose a camera bag is to first look at how and where you will be using your bag. Are you a hobbyist who loves going on nature hikes with your DSLR and taking bird photos? Do you just do one-on-one shoots like engagements or family portraits? Or do you work large-scale events that require multiple full-frame camera bodies and several lenses? These answers will guide you in choosing the best bag that fits your needs.  

You’ll want to consider various factors including bag size, amount of protection, comfortability, aesthetics, durability, accessibility, and storage. Knowing how and where you will use your camera bag will guide you to the right bag for your needs. 

All the bags above that our team has tested will first and foremost protect your camera. These are over-the-shoulder and messenger-style bags that will serve you whether you are on a nature hike or working a wedding. If you prefer a backpack-style camera bag to protect your precious cargo, check out our guide to the Best Camera Backpacks . 

It’s important to find a bag that will protect your gear and last a long time. Bags with water-resistant or waterproof outer shells will keep your equipment dry and moisture-free. Materials like polyurethane laminate (PUL), vinyl, polyester, nylon, or Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU), like those in the Tenba DNA16 PRO Messenger Bag , are commonly used in water-resistant or weatherproof bags.

Seams, bases, and zippers are weak spots where moisture can get in even if the materials are waterproof. YKK zippers are high quality and are often found on the best camera bags. So, choose a bag with a seam-sealed base and solid zippers. The Tenba DNA 16 PRO Messenger Bag and the WANDRD Rogue Sling 9L have these important features.

Finding a camera bag that’s the right size for every situation is challenging. But, choosing a bag that meets your needs most of the time is essential. You don’t want a bag that is too small to hold the number of lenses you need, but you also don’t want a giant bag that requires digging to find what you need. The wrong size bag will be inconvenient and could potentially damage your gear.  

Photographers with single point-and-shoot cameras will want a compact bag like the FOSOTO Waterproof Anti-Shock Bag with padding and protection. An event photographer will need space for two camera bodies and several lenses, SD cards, and a tripod. 

Camera bags often come in a range of sizes measured in liters. For example, the WANDRD Rogue Sling 9L comes in 3, 6, and 9L sizes. Some bags, like the Peak Design Everyday V2 6L Sling , have a 10L option. A 3L bag works best for a small camera with one lens while a 6-liter bag fits a few more lenses. A 9L to 10L bag is perfect for multiple full-frame cameras, lenses, and accessories. 

A comfortable bag is important, especially considering how much gear will be crammed into it and how long you will be on your feet. An adjustable, padded strap allows you to move the bag according to your height. Padding keeps the strap from digging into your neck. We found that the WANDRD Rogue Sling 9L offered the most comfort because it had adjustable straps, a strap pad, and extra padding in strategic places.

Bags that provide two or three different ways to wear them are a plus. Over-the-shoulder will give you quick access to your gear. Making your bag into a cross-body will keep your shoulder and neck from knotting up. A bag with the hip holster-style carry will keep your arms free while giving fast access. If your body is sore after a long shoot, cruise over to our guide to the Best Foam Rollers . Hopefully, you’ll find some relief.

Accessibility

Another important thing to consider when choosing a camera bag is accessibility to your camera and equipment. If you are out for a stroll and you see a bird you want to capture, or you are at a wedding and the groom does something spontaneous, you need to be able to reach into your bag and quickly grab your camera. 

Enter the easy-access zipper. These zippers allow you to reach into the bag instead of opening the main flap. The Tenba DNA 16 PRO Messenger Bag has this zipper at the very top of the bag. It has a smooth glide and is large enough to fit your whole arm in.  

Another easy-access feature is when the flap or top of the bag is designed to open away from your body. The Ruggard Hunter 35 DSLR Holster Bag has such a feature. A top that opens toward your body creates one more obstacle for getting to your camera, while a flap that opens away makes for a quick grab.

Your budget plays a role in which bag you choose. But, considering the cost of the equipment you’re trying to protect, it’s crucial to choose a high-quality bag. The Ruggard Hunter 35 DSLR Holster Bag can fit your budget while offering a solid amount of protection and padding.  

Camera bags can be more expensive than general messengers or slings because of the added padding and protective materials.

A more expensive bag, like the Tenba DNA 16 PRO Messenger Bag , is probably worth the $200 if it means that your lens and several other pieces of expensive camera equipment stay as safe and protected as possible.

However, some very good, more affordable options, like the Amazon Basics Bag ($43) and the CADeN Canvas Camera Bag ($45), offer a solid amount of protection at a reasonable price. They both have the protection and room for a couple of cameras and lenses. 

Special Features

Bags’ special features will vary, but small details make the best camera bags. The Tenba DNA 16 PRO Messenger Bag includes their exclusive Whisper Hook, a clasp that easily slides undone and snaps back together magnetically. 

Good quality bags have the YKK zippers, as mentioned in the materials section above . The easy-access zipper on the Tenba makes a quick grab more efficient and manageable.

Sometimes, we find special features in the oddest of places. The WANDRD Rogue Sling 9L has a “secret” pouch at the bottom of the bag that could hold a light rain jacket, poncho, water bottle, or small tripod. The small pocket at the bottom of this sling hides an excess strap, which can be used to secure items tethered to the outside of the bag.  

Choose the bag based on how you will use it.

Will you be hiking? Pick a camera backpack.

Will you be using it for travel? Pick something lightweight that fits carry-on regulations.

Will you be shooting big events with lots of people? Pick a well-padded bag with shock resistance so that if someone runs into you, you won’t feel panicked about checking your bag for broken gear.

Will you be out all day or constantly need to change cameras and lenses? Choose a larger bag that easily holds a camera body or two, the appropriate accompanying lenses, and pockets with spare batteries and backup cards. 

The number of cameras and lenses you want to carry will determine the type of camera bag you choose. If all you have is a simple point-and-shoot, the Ruggard Hunter 35 DSLR Holster Bag would be best. If you have a DSLR, a bag at least an inch or two larger than the body will give it room. If you need to bring multiple camera bodies and lenses to an event, a larger bag with many pockets, like the Tenba DNA 16 PRO Messenger Bag , is ideal. 

Short answer: No. If you feel like risking it, you can keep your camera in a regular bag. But the likelihood that your camera will be damaged is increased. And if you’re attached to your bag, you can always buy a padded camera cube and then place it in the bag.

However, a camera bag be safer for your camera and will also keep your peripherals organized. This ensures you have access to everything you need when you need it.

Whether you are working an event outside or indoors, your camera bag should at least be water resistant. If it rains, the bag will keep your gear dry while you seek shelter or slip on a rain sleeve. If you’re shooting an indoor event, chances are you will sweat from running around and being in a crowded room.

You’ll want your bag to keep your equipment dry if it’s at your hip or on your back all night. Your sweat will soak through as easily as water. A weatherproof bag is ideal. But, anything that is water or weather-resistant will also work by offering some protection. 

The Best Daypacks of 2024

We tested the best daypacks of 2024 with options for every budget. Top picks include Osprey, Cotopaxi, and more.

The Best Camera Backpacks of 2024

We tested the best camera backpacks of 2024 with options for every budget. Top picks include Lowepro, Peak Design, and more!

Katelyn Clement is a freelance writer and content creator.  She has been writing feature articles and product reviews for about eight years. She was first published in GearJunkie in 2024.

Before that, Katelyn worked as an editor for her university’s publications, The Mirror (newspaper), The EDDA (yearbook), and began the first campus student podcast, Light Reflections during her senior year. She continued her journalism career by becoming a news broadcaster at KELO Radio for two years, before ultimately deciding to switch gears and focus more on featured articles, blogs, product reviews, visual content, and editing.

Based in South Dakota, Katelyn spends her free time reading, biking, playing with polaroid cameras, and forwarding the life expectancy of her eardrums at punk concerts.

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REI Is Cleaning House With a Massive Spring Sale — Shop the 50 Best Deals Up to 81% Off

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Travel + Leisure

Since the arrival of spring, my mind has been consumed with non-stop thoughts of my upcoming outdoor adventures that will make the most out of the longer, warmer days. But as I learned the hard way last year, the trademark of any great trip is being prepared with excellent travel gear. Trust me, the last thing that anyone wants is to let uncomfortable athleisure hinder their enjoyment or have a flimsy tent spoil their camping trip. When it comes to exceptional outdoor gear, REI is my ultimate destination for purchasing high-quality and dependable travel essentials that are built to last.

If you've been searching for the perfect opportunity to upgrade your gear, then you're in luck, because REI also happens to be hosting an incredible (and under-the-radar) spring sale to ring in the season. With hundreds deals on top brands like Patagonia , Vuori , New Balance , Hoka , and Cotopaxi , this sale requires some diligent scrolling, so I’ve taken the time to carefully sift through them alls to curate a list of the  50 best ones, starting at just $4 ahead of all of your upcoming ventures. 

The apparel deals at REI are truly next-level. With mega discounts on the top-rated and extra stylish Outdoor Voices Doing Things Dress and Arc'teryx Men's Cormac Crew SS Shirt in Pytheas Heather , you have the chance to upgrade your wardrobe with high-quality pieces that are perfect for any adventure. And guess what? You can snag a pair of the REI Co-op Women’s Trailsmith Overalls in Washed Blue for just $27 and even get $50 off a pair of the Kuhl Men’s Renegade Rock Pants in Bedrock . We don’t know how long these deals will last, or how much longer they’ll be in stock. So if I were you, I’d get shopping. 

• Vuori Women's Halo Essential Hoodie , $28 (originally $96)
• Outdoor Voices Doing Things Dress , $32 (originally $108) 
• REI Co-op Women's Powderbound Insulated Jacket , $100 (originally $199)
• Vuori Women's Vintage Ripstop Shorts , $30 (originally $68)
• Patagonia Women's Wind Shield Pants , $84 (originally $169)
• REI Co-op Women's Wallace Lake Flannel Shirt , $18 (originally $75)
• Arc'teryx Men's Cormac Crew SS Shirt in Pytheas Heather , $56 (originally $70) 
• REI Co-op Men’s Trailsmith Fleece Jacket in Red Cascade , $45 (originally $90)
• Kuhl Men’s Renegade Rock Pants in Bedrock , $49 (originally $99)
• Patagonia Women’s Strider Pro Shorts 3.5-inch , $23 (originally $79)
• REI Co-op Women’s Trailsmith Overalls in Washed Blue , $27 (originally $90) 
• Topo Designs Men’s Patagonia Women's Wind Shield Pants , $84 (originally $169)
• REI Co-op Men's Trail Pants , $30 (originally $100)

Vuori Women's Halo Essential Hoodie

Any experienced hiker, runner, or traveler will tell you that the shoes you wear (and pack) play an important role in ensuring a comfortable trip. If your shoe collection is lacking in that department ahead of spring hikes and other outdoor activities, then consider this REI sale as a clear indication that it's time for an upgrade. Whether its with a pair of the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam X More v4 Sneakers to wear on your next run or the top-rated Merrell Men's Merrell Moab Women's Speed Mid Gore-Tex Hiking Boots for your next trek, be sure to take advantage of significant discounts on both pairs while they’re still in stock. 

• New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam X More v4 Sneakers in Summer Aqua , $112 (originally $150) 
• La Sportiva Men’s Jackal GTX Trail-Running Shoes , $117 (originally $195)
• Black Diamond Women's Fuel Approach Shoes , $93 (originally $170) 
• Allbirds Women's SuperLight Wool Runner Sneakers , $60 (originally $120)
• Helly Hansen Women’s Cascade Mid HT Hiking Boots , $88 (originally $160)
• Keen Women's Targhee III Waterproof Mid Hiking Boots in Atlantic Blue , $82 (originally $165)
• Keen Women's Astoria West Sandals , $81 (originally $125) 
• Oboz Bozeman Women's Mid Hiking Boots , $74 (originally $135)
• Rockfish Women's Chelsea Wellington Ankle Boots , $66 (originally $135)
• La Sportiva Men's Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX Hiking Boots , $140 (originally $199)
• Hoka Men's Arahi 6 Road-Running Shoes , $113 (originally $140)
• Merrell Men's Merrell Moab Women's Speed Mid Gore-Tex Hiking Boots , $102 (originally $170)
• Columbia Men's Rostra Beachcomber PFG Flip-Flops , $32 (originally $50)

Keen Women's Astoria West Sandals

Complete with stellar deals on spacious tents and campsite must-haves , REI has some of the best discounts on camping gear across the web right now. If you’re looking to turn your next camping experience into a glamping experience, I recommend snagging the REI Co-op Outward Hammock while it's on sale for $99. Or, if your camping accessory department needs a bit more love, you’ll have to check out the TheTentLab The Deuce UL Backcountry Trowel while its on sale for $15, the Princeton Tec Snap Solo Headlamp for just $21, and the cooling and UV-blocking Sunday Afternoons UVShield Cool Face Mask for a mere $4.

• Sunday Afternoons UVShield Cool Face Mask , $4 (originally $20) 
• GSI Outdoors Cascadian 1-Person Table Set , $9 (originally $18)
• Big Agnes Wyoming Trail 2 Tent , $390 (originally $650)
• Alpine Mountain Gear Weekender Tent 4 , $65 (originally $150) 
• Alps Mountaineering Dash Chair , $45 (originally $120)
• Princeton Tec Snap Solo Headlamp , $21 (originally $40)
• TheTentLab The Deuce UL Backcountry Trowel , $15 (originally $20)
• Hydro Flask Cooler Cup , $15 (originally $25)
• Mountain Equipment Starlight I Sleeping Bag , $90 (originally $205)
• Leki Jannu FX TA Trekking Poles , $110 (originally $150)
• Trekmates Bomberlite Sleeping Pad , $54 (originally $120) 
• REI Co-op Outward Hammock , $99 (originally $199)

Big Agnes Wyoming Trail 2 Tent

So you’ve shopped for new camping accessories, clothes, and shoes, but what about something to carry those precious valuables in? You'll need a durable backpack, duffel, or suitcase to withstand the weight of your essentials, so that’s where REI’s deals on spacious and practical bags come in. Shoppers can score the stylish Cotopaxi Luzon Del Dia 18-liter Backpack , a roomy and sleek hiking bag for just $65 off and high-quality Eagle Creek Tarmac XE 2-Wheel 95-liter Wheeled Luggage while it's sporting an enticing $100 discount. That’s not all, as customers can also enjoy steep discounts on daypacks and hip packs for a fraction of their price. But you’ll have to act accordingly because there’s no way these bag deals will be in stock for much longer. 

• Eagle Creek Tarmac XE 2-Wheel 95-liter Wheeled Luggage , $240 (originally $339)
• Cotopaxi Luzon Del Dia 18-liter Backpack , $45 (originally $60) 
• Granite Gear Perimeter 35 Pack , $112 (originally $230) 
• Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Mini Hip Pack , $24 (originally $35)
• Patagonia Fieldsmith Roll-Top Pack , $70 (originally $129)
• Osprey Heritage Aether 30 Backpack , $98 (originally $180)
• Topo Designs Mini Shoulder Bag , $27 (originally $39)
• Gregory Men’s Zulu 30 Pack in Fiery Red , $120 (originally $160)
• Sherpani Women’s Cabo Convertible Pack , $52 (originally $75)
• Kavu Wombat Pack , $45 (originally $65)
• REI Co-op Big Haul 28 Recycled Duffel , $70 (originally $100)
• Mountain Hardwear Camp 4 Duffel , $91 (originally $130)

Eagle Creek Tarmac XE 2-Wheel 95-liter Wheeled Luggage

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