best safari duffel bags

Best Duffle Bag & Luggage for African Safari Travel in 2024

Choosing what type of bag to take on your safari can depend on where you are going, what you are doing ( climbing Kilimanjaro or flying in small bush planes) and how long you are staying. Different regions have different luggage requirements and restrictions depending on what type of air transport is being used. Recently rolling duffel bags with a hard bottom frame and wheels have become quite popular. Now while this sort of bag is fine for many safaris, it won’t work on most safaris in Botswana and Zambia where the hard frame and wheels can’t be squeezed into the tiny luggage compartment in the belly of the Cessna. A traditional duffel bag or a completely soft-sided bag with wheels is appropriate in these situations (see the Swissgear bag below).

As frequent travelers to Africa, we’re sharing some of our favorite safari bags below. All of these bags qualify as carry-ons and are about the right size for keeping within the strict weight limits of most small plane flights in Africa (33 or 44 pounds per person and a maximum size of 10 inches wide, 12 inches high and 24 inches long).

For more packing recommendations, view our Safari Packing List and our Amazon Store .

Herschel Novel Duffel Bag & Herschel Supply Co. Sutton Mini

Herschel bags are favorites of our Journey Specialists. The Mini is a nice pick for travelers comfortable traveling very light, as it’s only 12.5″ wide. The Classic duffel is 20.5″ wide and holds 42.5L. The Classic duffle also has a removable padded shoulder strap, though you won’t be carrying your own bag while on safari. The Mini currently sells for $65 and the Classic is $90.

Eagle Creek Medium

Eagle Creek is another staff favorite and one of our most affordable picks, as it currently sells for $80. The medium bag is made of bi-tech fabric, making it extra durable and water-resistant, but only weighs 30 oz. There is also an extra storage pouch that you can use as an internal packing pocket for items you’d like to keep separate.

Swissgear Large Lightweight Rolling Duffel

For those looking for a wheeled duffel bag, we recommend the Swissgear Large Lightweight Rolling Duffel . Kent has bought many of these over the years for his family and himself and takes one every time he goes to Africa. This is a true rolling duffel in that it can be packed down – there’s no frame so this bag is ideal for flying safaris in Southern Africa. This bag is 24 inches wide, but the wheels and handle do add weight compared to the lighter weight duffel options above. This bag is 6.3 pounds empty, which will take away from packing weight for safaris that have luggage weight restrictions. It currently sells for $188.

Filson Medium 25″ Duffle Bag

Our top pick for a higher-end duffle is the Filson Medium 25″ Duffle Bag . This high quality bag is constructed with water resistant rugged twill and durable bridle leather. It also has two interior pockets and a removable shoulder strap. It’s currently priced at $380.

Be sure to check with your Journey Specialist about specific requirements for your safari before purchasing your bag. Also, check out our packing list so you know you’re not overpacking or forgetting something!

Want to See Our Safari Packing List?

Updated March 2022

All products featured are independently selected by the Africa Adventure Consultants team. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

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Best safari luggage – Duffel bags & backpacks for African travels

The best African safari luggage is completely different to the necessary luggage for a city trip or backpacking expedition.

There are some very unique conditions that make it important to choose specific safari luggage. This includes the dusty savanna, cramped buses, and a jam-packed Land Cruiser bouncing into the wilderness.

The single most important part of African travel is having a suitable bag . Everything else you can work out after you have arrived.

But what is the best luggage for an African safari? Is it a duffel bag or backpack? And if so, what are the best safari bags for your trip?

In this guide, we’ll detail everything you need to know .

Best Luggage for Travel to Africa: The Basics

An elephant does not care what you look like. Neither does a lion or even a safari guide .

So put the fancy clothes away and get practical . The wilderness simply isn’t a place for frivolities, and that starts with your safari luggage.

First, take a look at our detailed guide on what to pack for an African safari. In short – pack light and keep it simple .

Why? Well, however you plan to travel in Africa, it’s going to be full, and there isn’t enough space for big safari luggage.

• Light aircraft safari flights have strict 15 kg baggage weight limits.
• Safari vehicles are generally designed for off-roading and don’t have much space for luggage.
• Travel on public transport, and you must be comfortable carrying your own luggage, including walking with it for more than a kilometer.

On an African adventure, you will be moving from place to place. On many safaris, you go to a different camp every day.

So there isn’t even time to unpack everything. Just take the basics and stay practical – this isn’t a fashion statement!

It doesn’t help if you are a wizard at folding safari clothing into crease-free, super-flat, super-organized piles. If your safari luggage is a complete dinosaur, it’s going to be disastrous.

And all the skillful arrangement adds up to nothing if your bag weighs more than King Kong with the Empire State Building in his left hand and a distressed blonde in his right!

What is the Best Luggage for Safari?

It is important to choose the right luggage for your African safari. This way, you can ensure the safety of all your belongings , whether on the plane, bus, or the savanna.

As mentioned above, you will need to pack light. And in addition to sticking to the strict weight limits, the bag should be able to hold all your clothing and gear .

Chances are you’ll need to pack several layers for those warm days and cold nights. You may also need space for your camera equipment .

Luckily, there are many lightweight duffel bags and backpacks that fit the bill. Below is a breakdown of the best safari duffel bags, backpacks, and travel bags for your next African adventure.

Best duffel bag for safari

Soft-sided luggage for safari is a must , and there are many duffel bags that offer exactly that. They are also spacious enough to store up to a week’s worth of clothing and toiletries, along with your other safari gear.

Depending on which African safari you’re visiting, it may help to look for a technical duffel bag .

These travel bags have unique features that can help a ton when out in the wilderness. Common features include a water-repellent shell and detachable straps .

But what is the best duffel bag for an African safari? Top brands to look out for include The North Face, Travelpro, and Red Oxx .

Best backpack for safari

While duffel bags are the preferred pick, backpacks are good too – especially if you’re going on a walking safari through Mana Pools National Park or elsewhere in Africa.

Like duffel bags, backpacks for safari need to be light , durable , and compressible . They also need to have enough pockets and compartments to store your belongings securely.

Backpacks also make for a good secondary bag. As such, opt for a roll-top as these can easily fit into your larger duffel bag during your flight and transfer. This way, you’re getting the best of both worlds.

What is the best safari backpack? Recommended picks include the Saddleback Leather backpack and the Targus Drifter.

Other safari travel bags

In addition to your safari duffel bag or backpack, there are a few other luggage items you may want to bring along.

These items are fanny packs , dopp kits , and camera bags . Each of these can easily fit into a larger bag and can come in hand when on a safari.

Remember to only bring these along if necessary as you might need the extra space.

How to Pick the Best Luggage for African Safari

Let’s recap on the conditions, especially if you haven’t been on a safari in Africa.

On an African safari, you will be driving off-road , often on arid landscapes shrouded in dust. If it’s not dusty, it will probably be muddy.

Take a holiday at an all-inclusive beach resort, and you only use your luggage once – to get from your home to the resort.

In Africa, you will be on the move .

Whether public or private transport, flights or local buses, all that moving means things will spill, and your safari luggage is going to get dirty .

There are usually two options when it comes to what to wear on holiday. Change your clothes every day, or change your destination every day instead.

As you regularly move between destinations, you won’t need lots of luggage . And don’t worry if your clothes are a little sweaty or dust-stained. You will look more out of place in incredibly clean clothes.

It’s going to be hot, probably very hot. You will be battling against humidity. If it’s the rainy season, you and your luggage will get drenched.

These can be tough conditions, so the fundamental principle of all safari luggage is to make it easier for yourself .

In addition to knowing what the best bags for exploring in the wild are, here is how to choose safari luggage . These are sure to make your African adventure easier and packing less challenging.

1. You need quality luggage for safari (but not designer or expensive)

The eternal conundrum is whether to head for an exclusive luggage shop or select the cheapest , most rubbish piece of safari baggage available at a local supermarket.

Airline baggage controllers do not distinguish between designer labels and care not for price tags. Your bags get completely stuffed up, whether you paid a small fortune or got them in the bargain bin.

Your bag will be treated like a bag of potatoes by the majority of the people who handle it, from baggage controllers to local bus boys squashing your carefully labeled luggage next to some chickens and maize sacks.

Be warned – fragile stickers don’t work , especially not when you are on safari.

Spending hundreds or thousands on Louis Vuitton’s finest or the very latest Antler miracle is not a wise thing. And the cheapest safari luggage won’t live up to the demands of traveling in Africa.

So go for a good , middle-of-the-road bag – the “iSpot” duffel bag range from Travelite is a recommended choice. They are durable and inexpensive.

iSpots are soft , relatively light, and have a built-in wheely handle so you can pull them along the road and runway when necessary.

iSpots have concealed zips , which all have locking facilities on them (so many lightweight safari bags only have locking docks on their main zips and not on side pockets).

They are hard-wearing , rugged , and spacious enough for two-week trips in Africa. The seams won’t rip and dispose of half your belongings onto a buffalo -covered savanna.

2. Safari travel bags should be soft

In Africa, there is plenty of space for elephants to charge around. But there is not enough space for luggage.

Keeping your weight below 15 kg is important. Your safari luggage needs to mold and squeeze into any available space.

Solid-state suitcases may be good for European city trips, but they are completely impractical for Africa .

These massive, stainless steel megalodons are too bulky, do not stack neatly, and take up too much unnecessary room.

African safaris require soft , squishy bags that can squeeze into small spaces. As previously mentioned, duffel bags are perfect for this.

Backpacks are also a good choice, provided they don’t have a protruding and inflexible frame.

So let’s recap. The perfect safari luggage is light , squishy , hard-wearing , rugged enough for the dusty African savanna , and spacious enough for the safari essentials.

3. Reduce the volume of your safari bag

That aside, you should also take the volume of your bag into account. A 70-liter capacity is around average.

There are some excellent duffels out there , especially those designed for diving or adventure pursuits, which offer more space.

Coming in at $14.95, you get what you pay for with a duffel bag like this. It may last one trip if you are lucky!

But remember that a tightly packed soft bag is better than a loosely packed one because it keeps your belongings from rolling around and getting damaged.

It also prevents your cosmetics bag from getting a bang and leaking its contents all over your clothes.

Some duffel bags have straps that can compress the contents inside. These are ideal, as you can start light and still compress. Then you can expand it if you end up purchasing half a bag of souvenirs.

4. Other key considerations for the best luggage for safari travel

A wet bag is a great idea for cosmetics. Don’t buy an expensive one. You can use a run-of-the-mill high-street supermarket bag and tie the handles up tight to prevent unwanted spillages.

Consider decanting things like shampoo and moisturizer into small containers, or buy them in small bottles, to begin with.

The Body Shop , for example, has some great small bottles of products that are ideal for traveling. This reduces volume.

Your choice of safari luggage is peculiar to you and your needs , what you want to put in it and where you are going.

Whether you spend a lot of money on it or not, just make sure that it is secure with decent locks or, failing that, cable ties.

When flying, never put anything of value in it (jewelry, cameras, computers, cell phones, etc.).

And if it gets damaged by an airline’s baggage handler, make sure you stand up for your rights and get it either repaired or replaced.

Where to Take Your Safari Luggage

Having the right safari luggage can make or break your trip. But with this guide, you now know what to take and how to take it. So all that’s left is to go out and explore !

There are endless opportunities for a wild adventure in different locations – South Africa , Botswana , Namibia , Zambia , Zimbabwe , Tanzania , Kenya , Uganda , and gorilla trekking in Rwanda .

Hopefully, your safari luggage will keep you returning to Africa and experience as many incredible safaris as possible.

About The Author

Editorial Team

Related posts.

African safari packing list – What to bring on a trip to Africa

Best safari clothing: brands, clothes & tips for African safaris

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15 Best Safari Bags for your Next Adventure

Traveling on safari brings with it countless obstacles and situations that you need to be prepared for and having the right safari bags with you can help you to be ready, and to best enjoy your trip.

Safaris in Africa, Asia, or anywhere else in the world where you may choose to head off into the wilderness in search of wildlife, will ensure that you are encountering extreme weather conditions, be it rain, dust, mud, heat and cold, potentially all within the same day, so it’s imperative to choose safari bags that are able to withstand the worst that will be thrown at them.

There’s a lot more to reflect on too, and you’ll need to consider your style of travel, be it luxury safaris or budget safaris, expeditions, overland travel or charter plane flights.

Luckily, there are a lot of great safari bags out there to meet almost any requirements, and to help you decide what exactly you need, here’s our guide to buying the best products on the market.

Top 5 Best Safari Bags

Table of Contents

Quick Answer: Best Safari Bags

• Best OverAll Safari Bag: North Face Base Camp Duffel
• Best Budget Safari Bag: Osprey Packs Trilium 65 Duffel Bag
• Best Safari Bag for Women: Osprey Packs Fairview 70 Women’s Travel Backpack
• Best Safari Bag for Men: Osprey Packs Farpoint 70 Men’s Travel Backpack
• Best Woman’s Safari Bag for Hiking: Osprey Fairview 40  
• Best Men’s Safari Bag for Hiking: Osprey Farpoint 40
• Best Safari Duffel Bag: North Face Base Camp Duffel
• Best Safari Duffel/Backpack Bag: RAB Expedition Kitbag 80L Duffel Bag Blue 80L
• Best Safari Day Bag: Osprey Porter 46  
• Best Malti-Day Safari Bag: Osprey Packs Farpoint 70 Travel Backpack 
• Best Wheeled Safari Bag: Eddie Bauer Unisex-Adult Expedition Drop-Bottom Rolling Duffel
• Best Lightweight Safari Bag: Gonex 80L Packable Travel Duffle Bag
• Best Waterproof/Dustproof Safari Bag: North Face Base Camp Duffel
• Best Leather Safari Bag:   Komal’s Passion Leather 24 Inch Square Duffel Travel Safari Leather Bag
• Best Canvas Safari Bag:   Filson Medium Duffle – Waxed canvas
• Best Soft Side Safari Bag: Mountain Warehouse 90 Cargo Bag – 3 Ways to Carry All-Season Backpack Black
• Best Packable Safari Bag: Gonex 80L Packable Travel Duffle Bag

What Type of Safari are You going on?

The first thing to think about when you begin delving into the vast world of safari bags is what type of safari you are actually going to be going on. Different types of bags will be more suited for different types of safari, and the season you will be traveling.

If you are traveling across Africa in the rainy season, you will want to make waterproofing a priority. If you are a wildlife photographer and have a lot of equipment, you will want to ensure that your safari bags will provide adequate protection against dust and the elements.

Luxury travelers may want to ensure they have a fashionable yet durable bag that looks the part at their remote bush camp, while backpackers opting for cheaper safaris may want to have a more practical hiking or duffel bag to cope with the stress of long-distance, overland travel.

Practicality vs Style

Practicality vs style then is another important consideration to make. There are a lot of classic, leather-bound carry bags on the market that wouldn’t look out of place in the late Victorian era, and while they might look stylish, you might want to determine if it is the best fit for you.

Some of the most practical bags, however, won’t look the most stylish, but you can find some quality safari bags produced by outdoor companies as kit bags, that are suitable for almost anything.

Colour and aesthetics, while they may seem trivial, can be an important part of the buying process. Many bags that are specifically aimed at safari-goers may be brown, beige or green in color, to almost blend in with the classic safari environment.

Some travelers though, find it is more practical to have a brightly colored bag that they can actually find quickly amongst piles of other luggage when traveling by bus or plane.

Size Considerations

The size of your chosen safari bags will come down to a number of factors, but the most important thing to note is that your luggage needs to be suitable for air travel.

Likely, you will arrive at your destination via air, and if you are planning on visiting remote, luxury camps in the African savannah, then getting there will generally involve flying in small, charter aircraft that are very restricted by weight and size requirements.

Don’t overpack, and make sure your luggage fits the airline requirements. If you travel light and hand luggage only, then ensure your backpack or duffel is in line with ever-changing airline restrictions.

If you are planning on traveling overland as part of your safari, or are planning it as part of a wider trip, then you may want to choose a bag that is easy to carry around, that can fit in luggage compartments, or that you can easily walk around with.

Again, the size will depend on your individual requirements, but just remember, when you are on safari, it’s always best to pack light.

Material and Durability

The material that your safari bags are constructed from can make the difference between a terrible bag and a bag that will last you a lifetime of traveling.

You may want to invest in a waterproof bag , or at the very least be able to attach a rain cover to the outside, particularly if it is a backpack that you might be walking around with.

Luxury travelers may want to invest in specialized leather or canvas bags that not only look the part at your safari lodge in the wilderness but that will also be water-resistant and durable.

In the long run, unless this is a one-off trip, you will be better off investing money into quality products that will last. You don’t want your bag falling apart mid-flight, or on the taxi ride out of the airport, after all, you want it to last a lifetime.

Bag straps are another important aspect that you don’t want to overlook. If you are just traveling from one point to the next then you might be fine with just a holdall that you can pick up with one handle.

If you are hiking, backpacking or walking around a lot, then you’ll want to make sure your safari bags have adequate support, be it comfortable back straps, or even waist or chest straps to take the weight off your shoulders.

Many kit bags now come with a versatile number of straps, allowing you to instantly transform your handheld duffel bag into a backpack or a single strap, shoulder-worn bag.

You will also want to look at the number of pockets and different compartments that your bag has. If you purchase a basic duffel or kit bag, then the number of compartments is usually restricted to one open space, which can be fine if you aren’t too fussy.

If you want to separate your dirty laundry and your wet towels from your fresh, clean clothes, then this isn’t going to be an ideal situation.

As well as separate compartments you may also want safari bags that allow you space and different pockets for being organized. For instance, you may want pockets for toiletries, for your chargers and batteries, for your passport, or for your socks. The opportunities are quite endless really.

Best Types of Safari Bags and Product Recommendations

There is a great selection of safari bags out on the market right now, catering to all budgets, styles, designs, and needs. Here are a few of the most versatile types of bags to think about selecting for your trip, and a few specific product recommendations too.

Duffel Bags

Duffel bags and kit bags are great all-rounders that are perfect for the frugal traveler on a budget , making multiple, and varied trips each year. Modern kit bags can be incredibly versatile, with waterproofing, different outside straps that can be arranged to carry the bag how you feel is best or most appropriate for the situation, and a high level of resilience. 

Some of the best are made by outdoor companies and can come in many different capacities, from 40 liters up to 120 liters. The North Face makes excellent, quality, and great value kit bags, as do Rab , Mountain Warehouse and increasingly, many more well known outdoor brands too.

The Top Five Best Safari Duffel Bags:

• North Face Base Camp Duffel
• RAB Expedition Kitbag 80L Duffel Bag Blue 80L
• Mountain Warehouse 90 Cargo Bag – 3 Ways to Carry All-Season Backpack Black
• Osprey Packs Transporter 65 Expedition Duffel/Backpack
• Osprey Packs Trilium 65 Duffel Bag

Hiking Bags

Hiking bags are another fantastic, versatile choice that has long been the favored luggage-style of backpackers across the world. They can make for perfect safari bags, particularly if you are planning on hiking, or have an extended trip that will also take you on other adventures too.

Hiking bags come in many different sizes, with large capacities suitable for remote expeditions and small capacities which can make for perfect day hiking bags and carry-ons when flying.

Hiking bags have the added bonus of being designed for the outdoors, and if you pick a quality brand, you can also get lifetime warranties on your kit.

Osprey is a favorite amongst travelers, and they offer not only excellent hiking bags but also hybrid bags that cater to backpackers. Great examples are the Osprey Farpoint or the Osprey Transporter .

While you can get incredibly cheap hiking bags from sports outlets, it’s also best to invest in a quality product, with guarantees and reputation if you want it to last.

The Best Safari Hiking Bags:

• Osprey Farpoint 40  –  Men’s Best Safari Bag For Hiking
• Osprey Fairview 40  –  Women’s Best Safari Bag For Hiking
• Osprey Porter 46

Vintage Bags

Some of the most popular safari bags amongst luxury travelers or short terms holidaymakers are vintage bags. Not only do they look the part, but the best ones are made of quality leather or canvas, that is rugged, durable and able to stand up to the harsh requirements of the savannah while also looking great in the city.

Classic style safari bags are not for everyone, however, and they will be limited as to the variety and diversity of travel situations that they are handy in, but if you want a fashionable way to carry your luggage, then these are the bags for your safari.

Great vintage options include the excellent leather duffel bag by Komal , which retails at an incredibly affordable price, upwards to the canvas, bespoke designs from the likes of Ralph Lauren.

The Top Five Best Safari Vintage Bags:

• Travel Duffel Bag Waterproof Canvas or Leather  
• Filson Medium Duffle – Waxed canvas
• DRAKENSBERG Kimberley Long Weekender, canvas, buffalo leather
• Komal’s Passion Leather 24 Inch Square Duffel Travel Safari Leather Bag
• Komal’s Passion Leather 24 Inch Duffel Travel Gym Sports Overnight Weekend Leather Bag

Other Safari Items We Can Not Live Without?

Camera Gear: 

• Canon 6d DSLR Body
• Canon 100-400mm L Lens
• Canon ET-83C Lens Hood
• Canon 2x Extender
• OptiTech Sling Comfort Strap
• Rain Cover Coat Dust Proof Camera Protector (THIS IS A MUST)

Camera Bag:   Vanguard Alta Sky 45D .

Monopod: VEO2 AM-234 or the VEO CM-264 Carbon Fiber

Binoculars: Nikon Monarch 7   ( If you want to be able to spot and identify wildlife and birds then a good pair of safari binoculars are a must-have.)

• Cell Phone Binocular Adapter Mount (So you can take photos through your binoculars)

Safari Hat:  Panama Jack Men’s Mesh Safari Hat 

• Woman’s Safari Packable Khaki Summer Hat

Buff Headwear: BUFF Unisex Lightweight Merino Wool, Forest Night or  BUFF Unisex UV Multifunctional Headwear

Travel Insurance: Things can happen before your safari, while on your safari and after your safari while traveling home. Why not be protected with Travel Insurance? We have used Allianz Travel Insurance since our first trip together back in 2003. Simply use this link to get their travel insurance.

Not finding what you are looking for? Check out our favorite places to go shopping for travel gear.

• Shop Columbia – The industry leader in outdoor apparel and products; You can find anything from great jackets, gloves, hats, shirts, and travel pants.
• Shop REI – They offer some of the best outdoor gear around. We love REI since they have a year Love it or hate it no questions guarantee.
• Shop Moosejaw – Has a huge selection of outdoor gear at killer prices.

More on Travel Gear:

• 85 Best Travel Gifts for Travelers
• Best Sleeping Bag for Cold Weather – From Africa to Greenland
• Best Sleeping Bag Liners
• Best Drones For Travel From A Real Drone User
• Ultimate Travel Photography Gear List 
• Photography Gear Every Adventure Traveler Should Carry
• The Best GoPro Accessories for Adventure Travel
• 30 Best Travel Movies that Inspire Travel
• Best Travel Rain Jacket to Stay Dry on the Go
• A Man’s Travel Clothing Essential- Bluff Works Pants
• How To Wear A Buff Headwear – It’s Easy!
• Best Hiking Backpack for your Next Adventure
• Best Compact Binoculars for Outdoors & Travel
• Best Carry on Backpacks for Travel

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Travel planning resources, about david stock.

I have always been an outdoorsman so becoming an adventure traveler was just the next natural step. I love nature, I love to get off the beaten path and I like to explore. I enjoy scuba diving and cars. And yes, Lina and I have a naked dog.

2 thoughts on “15 Best Safari Bags for your Next Adventure”

Very informative article and i get to know about types of safari bags. Thanks for sharing.

Glad you found it useful, good luck in your search for a new bag!

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What to Pack for An African Safari, According to Trip Organizers

Packing is hard. Especially when the destination might involve giant mosquitoes or Instagram-worthy hiking trails. What do frequent travelers to these spots — the ones who best know how to prepare for the conditions — put in their suitcases ? We’ll be tackling this in our series “ The Trip List .”

Going on an African safari and spotting animals like lions and zebras in their natural habitat is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Since it’s not something most people do very often, it’s also not the easiest trip to pack for. For those lucky enough to have a safari in their future, we’ve rounded up a group of experienced tour guides and travel planners (with hundreds of safaris collectively under their belts) to help you out.

“People always overpack. I think that’s the biggest mistake,” says Deborah Calmeyer, founder and CEO of the safari trip organizer Roar Africa . She explains that, in terms of clothing, you generally just need a few casual pieces, as there aren’t many occasions to dress up on safari. Most lodges also offer laundry service with a quick turnaround time, so there’s no need to pack a new outfit for each day of your trip. Instead of prioritizing style, safari experts say to focus on layering , as you’ll spend most of your time outdoors on game drives in open-air vehicles. It might be chilly when you leave your lodge in the early morning but heat up quickly when the sun comes out. “If you’re out after sunset when the temperature drops, those layers will come in handy again,” says Calmeyer.

Before you start packing, learn the luggage requirements of your particular trip, which will determine how much you can bring. Even if you fly to Africa on a major international airline, once you’re in the bush, you’ll travel from site to site on small aircrafts with limited space. “The portal leading into the luggage compartments is quite small, and the bags have to be smushed and manipulated into these little cargo areas,” explains Kota Tabuchi, the managing director for African travel at the trip-planning consultancy Travel Beyond . Depending on your destination, weight limits can range from roughly 33 to 42 pounds, with lower limits more common in East Africa and higher maximums generally seen in South Africa. Choose a soft duffel bag (check your airline’s rules to confirm whether wheeled bags are allowed), as you can’t bring hard-sided luggage on many small planes.

You’re likely going on safari to encounter wild animals (especially the big five: lions, leopards, rhinoceroses, elephants, and buffalo), so don’t scrimp on binoculars and cameras that will help you get the best view and capture the best memories of your sightings. Below, our experts share their top picks for the gear that’ll make your trip comfortable and memorable, plus everything else you’ll need for a perfect safari.

As stated above, a soft-sided duffel bag is your best bet for traveling on safari. Tabuchi has owned this North Face bag for more than 15 years now and has brought it on multiple safaris each year. He calls it “absolutely bombproof.” The lightweight and roomy duffel should hold everything you need, and it is compliant with most African airline requirements. If you want another option, Tabuchi also likes the very similar Patagonia Black Hole bag (a longtime Strategist favorite ).

At under $100, this bag is an affordable pick that was mentioned by several safari pros, including Ina Steinhilber, president of tour operator Thomson Safaris . It’s lightweight, too, clocking in at just over two pounds, leaving plenty of room under the weight allowance for your stuff.

If you’re allowed to bring a soft duffel with wheels, this Osprey bag gets rave reviews from Wil Smith, founder and director of travel organizer Deeper Africa . “Make sure the bag is water resistant and has a storm flap over the zipper,” he says. “On a safari, you’re out on bumpy roads, and you never know if your bag’s going to end up out in the rain, dust, or dirt. It probably won’t, but you want to prepare for anything.” He says this bag checks all his boxes and even has lockable zippers.

“These are a must for finding clothing easily in the soft-sided duffel,” says Kristina Jackson, a senior safari and Kilimanjaro travel consultant at Thomson Safaris. Many frequent travelers have recommended packing cubes to us in the past (including the eBags set) because they compress your gear to save space — even more crucial when you have a tight luggage allotment. “After safari, you may find yourself using them more often,” says Jackson. “They make traveling so easy.”

According to Joel Cody, sales and marketing director at Thomson Safaris, you’ll also want a backpack for your daily game drives to carry things like extra layers, bug spray , and binoculars. Because it folds down into a compact pouch, he suggests this Paravel backpack, as you can easily fit it into your larger luggage.

“Layers are the most practical way to cope with fluctuating daytime and nighttime temperatures,” says Sherwin Banda, president of the safari trip operator African Travel , and pretty much all of our experts agree. A basic tee is a good first layer, and in the summer you might not need more than a long-sleeved shirt on top for the chilly morning and evenings. “We all have one of these,” says Ali Riley, art director of Thomson Safaris, of this polyester button-up. She likes that it’s comfortable, moisture-wicking, and offers UPF 40 protection from the sun.

If you prefer natural fibers, Cody recommends these linen long-sleeved shirts from Uniqlo. “They’re lightweight and comfortable, and you can wear a T-shirt or tank underneath for layering,” he says. “They look good after they’re washed and are available at an excellent price point.”

Patagonia pieces came up a lot among our experts, who like how they’re made sustainably and designed for travel and adventure. For a slightly warmer second layer, Cody likes this half-zip, which is made from a moisture-wicking fabric and locks in body heat. He tells us it “provides warmth without bulk, and doesn’t take up much room in a backpack.”

An even warmer jacket is a good option to have with you even in the summer. Elizabeth Gordon, co-founder and CEO of the safari company Extraordinary Journeys , explains that many popular safari locations, such as Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Crater, are located at high altitudes and may be chilly year-round. For cold nights and mornings, she loves Patagonia’s Nano Puff jackets. “They weigh practically nothing and somehow always keep me at the right temperature,” she says. For a less-expensive option, Gordon also likes ultralight down jackets from Uniqlo, available for both men and women .

“A light rain jacket can double as a windbreaker, so it’s good to bring no matter the time of year, [especially] with the changing rain patterns,” says Gordon. She says spring and fall are typically the rainy seasons in East Africa, but climate change has made the weather less predictable. To make sure you’ll have coverage in the event of an unexpected storm, she recommends this packable, lightweight Patagonia jacket.

There’s no need to go out and buy special pants for your safari — chinos , leggings , and shorts are all generally fine (though some experts advise against jeans because they’re heavy to pack). If you want to really get in the spirit, however, Riley suggests these convertible pants from Eddie Bauer. You can wear them as long pants in the morning and then roll them up into capris when the weather heats up. “They’re extremely comfortable, if not overly stylish,” she says. Here’s a similar style for men that unzips into shorts. Even if it’s warm out, our experts like having the option of long pants in the evenings when mosquitos are out.

Leggings and yoga pants are especially popular on safari because they’re lightweight and comfortable, especially if you’re going to be sitting in a Jeep all day. If you anticipate being cold, a fleece-lined pair is good to have too. “In case you get a cold night in Ngorongoro, these are great to sleep in, are inexpensive, and don’t take up a lot of room,” says Cody.

Although most lodges have laundry services — often complimentary for guests — many won’t wash women’s underwear because of cultural norms in certain countries. Since you may have to wash your own underwear in your bathroom sink, go with pairs made for exercise or travel that are designed to be fast-drying. “Ideally you want clothing that is easy to wash and dry,” says Smith. He includes underwear in this category, especially for women. Ex Officio (which makes some of our favorite men’s and women’s underwear) specializes in quick-drying materials that’ll make it easy for you to do your own wash.

Gordon points out that most lodges have pools, and getting in an afternoon dip is a great way to cool down after a long day out in the bush. Obviously, go with whatever swimsuit you love, but if you want some Strategist-approved picks, check out out recommendations for men and women (plus bikinis ). Here are two crowd-pleasers that earned our seal of approval.

Unless you’re trekking through the mountains to see gorillas, safaris are mostly sedentary experiences spent on Jeeps or Land Rovers driving through wildlife preserves to catch a glimpse of the big five. Our experts say there’s no need to waste precious luggage space on heavy hiking boots , as you’ll likely be doing only a bit of walking outside the vehicle. Jackson suggests wearing Toms. “They’re perfect to slip on and off while in the vehicle throughout the day and are also very lightweight.” Similarly, her colleague Cody swears by Vans, telling us, “They’re so easy to take off and on and are washable. I wore these all the time.”

If you do anticipate doing more active walking on your trip, both Smith and Tabuchi recommend trail-running shoes. They’re not as bulky as hiking boots (which our experts say aren’t necessary for most safari terrain) but still offer stability and traction. “They’re very sturdy,” says Smith. “You want good traction because if you get out of the car and it has been raining, the ground may be a little slippery.” Tabuchi says any trail runners with a solid rubber sole should do the trick. The lightweight Hoka One One Torrent is popular among trail runners and should be rugged enough to get you through your safari adventure.

Although our experts recommend closed-toe shoes while you’re out on game drives, they say to also bring a pair of flip-flops or sandals for when you’re relaxing back at your home base. “It’s great to have some comfortable flip flops for your tent or your lodge or around the campfire,” says Smith. You’ll also want to wear your flip-flops at the pool if your lodge has one. Brazilian-made Havaianas are an affordable yet stylish option that we’ve written about before .

Accessories

In the past, we’ve covered how merino-wool socks are ideal for all types of activities including running , biking , and hiking . Their temperature-regulating and moisture-wicking properties also make them perfect for safari. Steinhilber says Smartwool socks will “keep your feet warm on cool nights” and, given their lightness, will also be comfortable on daytime game drives.

Calmeyer says a shawl or pashmina will “never go to waste on safari” because it’s an all-in-one piece that you can use to stay warm, block out the sun, or even zhuzh up your casual clothes for a candlelit dinner back at the lodge. Gordon agrees, telling us she always brings a scarf “to dress everything up, or protect from dust.” Nicole Scherr, a former marketing project manager at Thomson Safaris, likes this specific shawl because it’s lightweight, quick-drying, and has UPF sun protection. “It’s great for the plane because it becomes a small blanket, and it’s also light enough to drape over yourself in the vehicle to protect from getting a burn,” she says.

If you’re not into shawls, a bandana or multipurpose gaiter can help with sun protection and keeping dust off your face. These two are favorites of the Thomson Safaris team. The UV-protective Buff also has built-in insect repellent, which you’ll appreciate when the mosquitoes come out.

Since you’ll be out in the sun for most of the day, all of our experts recommend a hat — both to prevent burning and to keep the sun out of your eyes so you can focus on the wildebeest migration or whatever amazing sight you’ve come across on your drive. Tabuchi recommends “a baseball cap at the very minimum,” but if you want even more coverage, several of our experts suggested a wide-brimmed hat like this one from Tilley, which is a top choice among Thomson Safari guides. It’ll cover the front and back of your neck, and it’s also packable, so you can cram it into your luggage and it will retain its shape when you take it out.

While the classic safari hat above is practical, Gordon admits it’s not the most stylish; she prefers a Panama hat like this one. You’ll get nearly as much sun protection in a bit more fashionable of a package.

Binoculars and cameras

“You can’t go on safari without these,” says Steinhilber, and nearly all of our experts agree that a good pair of binoculars will enhance your trip. How close you’re able to get to animals will depend on where exactly you’re going on safari, but Tabuchi explains that in many national parks and game reserves, vehicles are restricted to the road networks, so your driver won’t be able to go off-road to follow a pride of lions or elephants bathing in a river. That’s when binoculars will really come in handy. Although some lodges and game drives provide loaner pairs, Calmeyer says you’ll often end up having to share these with other guests, so it’s worth bringing your own. Gordon adds that “not having binoculars holds you back.”

All binoculars are labeled with two numbers. The first represents the magnification power (for example, “10” means objects will appear ten times bigger than they actually are), and the second is the lens diameter, which determines the field of vision. Binoculars can range in price from under $100 to well into the four figures for a Swarovski pair that Smith calls “the envy of every safari guide and bird enthusiast.” For a safari, Smith says to look for a pair with minimum specs of 8x42, like this mid-range model from Zeiss. With these, Smith says you’ll be able to zoom in on incredible sights like a rhinoceros 1,000 yards away.

If you’re willing to make more of an investment, the Vortex Viper 10x42 are Smith’s personal favorite binoculars. “Those are really good binoculars at a very reasonable price,” he says. “I think the glass is good; it’s stable. I’ve had people compare them with much more expensive binoculars.”

Smartphone cameras are so high-quality these days that experts say you’ll be able to get a lot of great shots with your iPhone — but on safari there are occasions when you’ll want a traditional camera. Like binoculars, a camera will be useful when your drive can’t get close to an animal and your phone camera’s zoom isn’t strong enough to shoot a clear picture from 50 yards away. Tabuchi adds that there are some areas where smartphone photography is banned to protect rhinoceroses, as poachers have used geotagged photos to track down the animals. And, as Gordon points out, if there’s any occasion to break out your fancy cameras and lenses, it’s Africa. Experts say you’ll want a minimum of 300-400mm zoom lenses for shooting at typical safari distances.

This Sony is a favorite of both Smith’s and Tabuchi’s. A bridge between an entry-level point-and-shoot and a high-end DSLR, it has an adjustable telescopic lens that zooms out to 600mm, more than enough to capture lion paws or the eyes of an elephant from a distance. Compared to a DSLR camera with multiple lenses, this one “takes up less space,” Smith says, “and you don’t have to mess around changing lenses.” Tabuchi calls it “stellar,” telling us “it’s got the functionality and zoom capabilities of a DSLR but has enough automatic features in there for dummies like myself.” (If you do choose to go the DSLR route, Tabuchi recommends renting additional lenses from Lensrentals.com to save money on expensive kits you might not use after your safari.)

Here’s a more affordable bridge camera that made Calmeyer’s list of recommended models for Roar Africa safari guests. She admits it won’t be as powerful as a DSLR, but for the price it’s a solid option for capturing both close-ups of animals and sweeping landscape shots.

Even pre-pandemic, experts recommended packing hand sanitizer, since you might be eating lunch straight off a game drive or need to take a bathroom break out in the bush and far from running water. Of course, by now we all have our own sanitizer preferences, but Steinhilber especially likes this lavender one because she says it “doesn’t have that terrible antiseptic odor.” (Interestingly, it’s also Sarah Michelle Gellar’s favorite .)

“The African sun is brutal,” says Calmeyer, and a good sunscreen is an absolute must. Any type you prefer will work as long as it has a high SPF, but if you want a safari-approved pick, Jackson says Badger is a solid “all-natural brand to use all day long.”

Don’t forget lip protection. Steinhilber says any lip balm you choose must have a strong SPF. She uses this one from Dermatone.

Mosquitos, tsetse flies, chiggers, and other critters are often unavoidable on safari, but a good bug spray can reduce your chances of getting bitten. Now’s not the time for organic essential-oil-based repellents that experts say won’t be up to the task. Instead, you’ve got to bring in the DEET. Brittany Silva, a safari trip manager at Thomson Safaris, says this 30 percent DEET spray is one of the best. Another good option is to wait until you land, so that you can buy bug spray from an African company and feel confident that it’s designed to repel the local insects. Calmeyer suggests the brands Peaceful Sleep and Tabard . “They work better than anything I’ve ever got from anywhere else,” she says. Gordon agrees, calling Peaceful Sleep “magical.”

If you’ve read our coverage of the best tick repellents , you know we’re already big fans of this permethrin spray, which can be used to treat clothing and gear. Smith, along with the team at Thomson Safaris, also uses it and likes the extra protection it provides. You can spray it on your shoes, your hat, and anything else you might be wearing to keep bugs at bay.

If you really don’t want to use DEET (which can be smelly and irritate skin), Smith suggests the non-toxic ingredient picaridin as an alternative. “It comes in nice, soft lotions that smell good,” he says, “and it’s just as effective as high-concentration DEET.” He says this Sawyer lotion feels gentle and non-greasy on your skin.

Even if your lodge has a laundry service, if you’re moving between places quickly and won’t be at a specific lodge for more than one night, Smith recommends packing soap for washing your own clothes. He says, “You can just wash your stuff and hang it up to dry while you’re sleeping, so you always have something clean.” Also, bringing your own soap is a must if your lodge won’t wash your underwear. Jackson recommends this eco-friendly, biodegradable soap for easy cleaning.

Additional gear

“On glamping safaris to the Serengeti, charging opportunities are generally limited to the vehicles and central lounge areas,” says Andrew Doherty, manager of special-interest travel at Thomson Safaris. Since you might not have a personal charging station in your tent or lodge, he recommends bringing a power bank that you can charge up when you’re near an outlet and then use to keep your phone and other gadgets running when you’re out of reach. “That way, you can continue to scan through selfies and edit safari shots on your phone while lying in bed listening to lions roaring in the distance.”

“There are three different plugs in Africa,” says Gordon. “A universal adapter is good to have because if you’re entering different countries, you’re just going to want to have all three in one.” This adapter will work in popular safari countries like South Africa, Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda.

Similarly, not all tents and lodges will have lights and electricity at all times. “A lot of places are on generators or solar panels that aren’t going to be on all day or all night,” says Gordon. “The lights are getting better, but they’re not super-strong.” While she used to bring a flashlight on safari, she says she now just uses the one on her phone, but still packs a book light for reading at night. A headlamp works too, if you prefer, and we’ve recommended our favorite one here .

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Today’s Top Clicked

The Best Safari Luggage

By Mara Balagtas and Lale Arikoglu

Choosing the right luggage for a safari can make or break the trip: One day, you might be rumbling along Botswana’s lush delta with nothing to protect your camera, and the next, you're boarding a tiny domestic aircraft that prohibits all suitcases with wheels. You'll need to pack light to adhere to strict weight limits, but still invest in something that can hold enough layers for warm days and cool nights, as well as a bag to hold all your gear while actually out on a game drive. Here, our picks of the best luggage to take on safari—from camera bags and dopp kits to backpacks and duffels.

All products featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

A backpack is going to be your best friend when you're out on a game drive all day. Choose one with plenty of pockets and compartments to hold everything from a change of clothes, to camera batteries, to sunscreen, and if you can, go for a roll top version that can be stashed away in your larger duffle when you don't need it.

Tumi Alpha Bravo Tyndall backpack ($495, saksfifthavenue.com ); Hobo River backpack ($298, hobobags.com ); Marni backpack ($1,090, eastdane.com ); Fjallraven Split Pack weekender bag ($175, backcountry.cocom ); Oakley roll top backpack ($93, amazon.com ); Herschel Supply Co. Heritage backpack ($65, herschel.com ).

Classic Duffel Bags

"You're usually on rough terrain once outside of the international airport, so wheels are not that helpful on safari," says West Coast editor Rebecca Misner. And given that most safari camps are only accessible by small propeller planes, hard-sided luggage is a no-go. Instead, invest in a soft-sided duffle that's roomy enough to hold everything you need for the week, but still meets all the requirements of your jumper plane.

Paravel Grand Tour ($365, tourparavel.com ); Anya Hindmarch Bespoke Walton suitcase ($1,550, anyahindmarch.com ); Wool & Oak Duffel Suitcase ($425, woolandoak.com ); Hobo Zeppelin Duffel ($598, hobobags.com ); Filson Large Rugged Twill duffel bag ($425, filson.com ); Ghurka Cavalier canvas duffel bag ($1,295, ghurka.com ).

While you still need all your beauty essentials (there's cocktail hour back at camp, after all), you don't want a dopp kit that takes up too much space. Opt for a soft one that can be squeezed easily down the side of a bag.

Prada cosmetic pouch ($525, prada.com ); Hobo cosmetic pouch ($78, hobobags.com ); Dolce & Gabbana Necessaire nylon case ($415, us.dolcegabbana.com ); Louis Vuitton Toiletry Bag 25 ($745, us.louisvuitton.com ); Bottega Veneta Intrecciato beauty case ($580, bottegaveneta.com ); Filson wash bag ($125, filson.com ).

Technical Duffel Bags

On safari, you never know what the day will bring. Find a bag that has a water-repellant shell and detachable straps that allow you to sling it over your shoulder—or even transform it into a backpack—at a moment's notice.

Patagonia duffel ($129, patagonia.com ); Best Made Co. SWS 100L roll top duffle ($198, bestmadeco.com ); Herschel Supply Co. Outfitter luggage ($140, herschel.com ); Cotopaxi Chumpi travel duffel ($110, cotopaxi.com ); Burton Backhill duffel ($109, amazon.com ); Eastpak Perce duffel ($77, selfridges.com ).

Jamie Spain

Kelsey Glennon

Megan duBois

Boone Ashworth

Fanny Packs

Given that you've traveled thousands of miles to catch a glimpse of wildlife roaming free, you'll want your hands free to grab your camera at any given moment. Luckily, fanny packs are in vogue again—perfect for holding all your essentials.

VereVerto Convertible Mini Mox bag ($295, shopbop.com ); Patagonia Ultralight hip pack ($29, patagonia.com ); Clare V. belt bag ($345, nordstrom.com ); Marc Jacobs belt bag ($315, marcjacobs.com ); Paravel belt bag ($35, tourparavel.com ); Herschel Supply Co. 17 hip pack ($45, herschel.com ).

Camera Bags

You'll want a compact, sturdy bag to protect that new camera you splurged on. We love the Palma camera bag from ONA, which comes with a handy compartment to store your spare memory cards or lenses in.

Madewell camera cross body bag ($128, madewell.com ); Lo & Sons Claremont leather camera bag ($368, loandsons.com ); Ganni tech bag ($135, ganni.com ); Yeezy Season 6 crossbody bag ($119, endclothing.com ); ONA The Palma camera bag ($329, amazon.com ); Tumi Luanda Flight bag ($295, tumi.com ).

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The Best Duffle Bags

By Kit Dillon

Kit Dillon is a writer focused on bags and travel gear. He has worked for Wirecutter for a decade and lost count of the number of bags he has tested.

Few bags are as simple, versatile, and satisfying to use as a duffle.

Its utilitarian design—a soft, oblong bag with one zippered opening plus two handles and/or a shoulder strap—suits anything from a daily commute to a weekend away to a fishing trip.

Though that basic form works in many situations, no single duffle bag (the word is also spelled duffel ) can fit everyone’s taste or needs.

A small, barrel-shaped duffle may be perfect for toting a couple of towels and lunch to the beach, for example, but it doesn’t offer the organization or space to pack for a three-day business trip.

The seven bags we recommend—plus three alternates—are well made, comfortable to carry, and intended to fill a range of roles, including as a versatile adventure bag , a weekend-away duffle , a daily-carry bag , a lightweight convertible backpack , an ultra-packable duffle , a rolling duffle for checking , and a waterproof gear hauler .

The research

Why you should trust me, most versatile duffle: patagonia black hole duffel 70l, also great: decathlon forclaz duffel 500 extend, best weekender: lands’ end waxed canvas travel duffle bag, best for daily carry: herschel supply co. sutton duffle mid-volume, also great: cotopaxi mariveles 32l duffel bag del día, for traveling on foot: cotopaxi chumpi 35l duffel del día, for when you need a spare bag: matador freefly packable duffle, also consider: waterfield packable duffel, best as checked luggage: dakine split roller 110l bag, best for keeping things dry: yeti panga 50l waterproof duffel, other good duffle bags, how we picked and tested, the competition, what to look forward to.

I’ve reviewed bags for Wirecutter since 2014. In that time, I’ve interviewed countless bag designers, brand executives, fabric specialists, zipper zealots, and a host of bag hobbyists and satchel obsessives. These interviews and my own years of research have earned me at least something of a journeyman’s understanding of how a good bag should feel and what makes it work in a given situation.

Patagonia Black Hole Duffel 70L

A rugged, versatile bag to hold your gear.

This bag is the most versatile gear duffle we’ve found. It’s tough, water resistant, and great for toting clothes and equipment in almost any travel or outdoor scenario.

Buying Options

Get this if: You need a sporty, water-resistant bag that can handle anything from toting sports gear to holding stuff for a two-day camping trip to going on a weeklong vacation.

Why it’s great: The Patagonia Black Hole Duffel 70L is a true jack-of-all-trades. The exterior is made of polyester ripstop that is laminated with thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) to protect against abrasion and has a water-resistant coating. Over the years, I’ve dragged, thrown, kicked, and carried these Patagonia bags across most of the country, and they’ve never failed. You can carry the Black Hole at your side using the two handles or over your shoulder using the strap, or you can wear it as a backpack with its two padded straps. The Black Hole is available in three other sizes, too: 40 liters , 55 liters , and 100 liters . (We originally tested a now-discontinued 120-liter version.) For all practical purposes, the bags are identical except for their increasing size, though the two smaller sizes come in a wider range of colors than do the two larger sizes. The Black Hole folds down into its own stuff sack, which turns into a storage pocket when you unfold the duffle. Patagonia has a highly regarded replacement and repair guarantee that we’ve tested many times without complaint.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: There’s little about the Black Hole to critique. It does what it needs to, and Patagonia’s reputation for high-quality materials and craftsmanship has set the standard for this type of bag for years. One small detail: The shoulder straps can take a moment to situate because of their unusual eyelet attachment, but once you figure them out, adjusting them is easy to do with one hand.

Dimensions: 28 by 13 by 17.5 inches (LWH) Capacity: 70 liters Other sizes: 40 liters , 55 liters , 100 liters

Decathlon Forclaz Duffel 500 Extend

If you need a versatile bag that expands.

This expandable bag is an absolute bargain, considering the quality and strength of the materials. However, Decathlon is still a lesser-known brand in the US, and we haven’t tested this bag for as long as we have our other picks.

Get this if: You need a durable and water-resistant bag for travel, sports, or longer adventure trips. With its extra 20 liters of expandable space, it’s a particularly good pick if you tend to travel with a small load and return home with a larger one—so consider this bag if you anticipate receiving gifts or doing some shopping while you’re traveling.

Why it’s great: When we first compared the quality of the Decathlon Forclaz Duffel 500 Extend against its listed price, we thought there must have been some kind of mistake. We rarely see a bag with coated thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) and polyester, both of which offer water resistance and durability, of this quality for less than a hundred dollars. In many respects, the Forclaz Duffel is similar in material quality to the Patagonia Black Hole Duffel 70L , yet it’s less than half the price. That said, we have some small concerns that we can’t address without further testing, namely the stitching at critical points (more on that below).

Beyond the price, the standout feature of the Forclaz bag is its Transformer-like ability to expand from a 40-liter backpack to a 60-liter bag with the adjustment of a few zippers and clips. The expansion process is a bit fiddly at first, but it’s well worth the effort if you find yourself frequently packing more than you expect during your trips.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: Upon close examination of the Forclaz bag, we found that our biggest concern involved the stitching at certain critical points, such as at the shoulder attachments and along key seams; we’d prefer to see more double stitching and bar tack reinforcements, as we found on the Patagonia Black Hole. This bag has notably high review scores on the Decathlon website, and its sturdy materials lead us to anticipate that it will wear well. That said, Decathlon’s limited warranty does not look as rock solid as Patagonia’s. There’s really no way for us to address this bag’s potential flaws without spending a lot more time with it, which we plan to do.

Dimensions: 21.5 by 15.5 by 12.5 inches (LWH) Capacity: 40 liters (expands to 60 liters) Other sizes: none

Lands’ End Waxed Canvas Travel Duffle Bag

A buy-it-for-life travel bag.

The more you use this rugged weekender, the better it will look. The canvas body, leather reinforcements, and brass hardware all promise durability, though we’d prefer more waxing in the canvas.

Get this if: You want a bag with a heritage look, to carry on quick trips, that can take a few knocks and age well with the wear.

Why it’s great: The Lands’ End Waxed Canvas Travel Duffle Bag is the toughest bag we could find—it’s made of sturdy canvas, with leather trim and brass hardware—that is also consistently available. The shoulder strap comes off, which is useful if you prefer to carry your bags by their handles. A small internal pocket is convenient for tucking away, say, your wallet or your house keys. The waxed duffle fits a specific aesthetic: It’s maybe not the bag you’d take on a business trip but rather to a cabin in the mountains. That outdoorsy look, however, has practical benefits, as with a little care a duffle like this should last a long time. (We should note, however, that Lands’ End no longer offers a lifetime warranty—you now have recourse only within a 90-day return period.)

Flaws but not dealbreakers: Waxed canvas is heavier than most modern fabrics (such as nylon and polyester), and we noticed the extra heft of the Lands’ End bag in comparison with the weight of other duffles we tested. Although Lands’ End describes this duffle as waxed, we’d call it lightly waxed at best. The canvas is mildly water resistant, but liquids won’t roll off it in the way you might see with more heavily waxed items. If you do want more protection, you can add more wax to the canvas yourself . When we tested the bag, it came in brown and navy. Currently, it’s available only in navy.

Dimensions: 24 by 11 by 11 inches (LWH) Capacity: 40 liters Other sizes: none

Herschel Supply Co. Sutton Duffle Mid-Volume

An affordable bag for daily use.

This midsize bag is for anyone who wants a simple duffle to use during the day. It’s great for commuting, going to the gym, or toting supplies on a park or beach excursion.

Get this if: You need an inexpensive bag with a casual style for your day-to-day activities and hobbies.

Why it’s great: If you were to ask a random person on the street to picture a small, basic duffle, they’d probably imagine a bag like the Herschel Supply Co. Sutton Duffle Mid-Volume . It has the classic shape, look, and feel of a traditional barrel duffle. Like most of the duffles we looked at, it comes with a removable shoulder strap, but you can carry it comfortably by its top handles, too. This decently constructed polyester bag with a center zipper running down its length is small enough that you can’t really overpack it or make it too heavy; basically, it’s the perfect size for daily tasks. Herschel bags are backed by a limited lifetime warranty . One thing to note for anyone who likes internal organization: The Sutton Duffle Mid-Volume has no internal pockets. It comes in a range of colors and a couple of patterns—six in all.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: This Herschel duffle is not the best-made bag we’ve encountered—the fabric feels thin, and the stitching is a bit slapdash. However, it is one of the better-made bags we’ve seen that cost less than $75. Even with light daily use, the Sutton Duffle Mid-Volume should last a good amount of time. Oddly, Herschel placed six small grommets on the bottom of the bag to (we assume) let out moisture. Unfortunately, that placement also lets plenty of moisture in if you accidentally put the bag down on a wet spot or coffee spill, which is not an inconceivable scenario in a gym or office.

Dimensions: 20.25 by 10.25 by 10.25 inches (LWH) Capacity : 28 liters Other sizes: none

Cotopaxi Mariveles 32L Duffel Bag Del Día

A daily-use bag made of upcycled material.

Similar in size to the Herschel bag, this duffle is strongly constructed out of upcycled materials. But it lacks a shoulder strap, and the color-block appearance may not be to everyone’s taste.

Get this if: You need a durable but inexpensive bag for simple daily use, but you also want a duffle made of sustainable materials, from a B Corporation.

Why it’s great: This kind of barrel-shaped 30-liter bag is something of a platonic ideal among duffle designs. Like the Herschel bag, the Cotopaxi Mariveles 32L Duffel Bag Del Día has the classic shape and feel of a barrel duffle. In contrast, however, it’s made of repurposed ripstop nylon that’s of a higher quality than the Herschel’s polyester, and it’s available for a lower price (though it lacks the Herschel bag’s included shoulder strap). We also continue to be impressed by Cotopaxi’s overall transparency and social mission. It’s a listed B Corp , and it takes pains to be as sustainable in its bags’ construction as possible, with a particular focus on labor practices. Like many of the company’s bags (indicated by the Del Día name), the Mariveles duffle is made from discarded material otherwise destined for the cutting-room floor, left over from other companies’ larger production runs. This is why each run of the Mariveles is distinct—the precise colors vary depending on what’s available.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: We’d love to see a shoulder strap included. Although the Mariveles does have loops so you can add your own shoulder strap, even a simple nylon one provided with the bag would go a long way toward making it one of our best overall picks. (There’s also a better likelihood that an included strap would coordinate with the motley colors of the bag.)

Dimensions: 17.5 by 10 by 10.5 inches (LWH) Capacity : 32 liters Other sizes: none

Cotopaxi Chumpi 35L Duffel Del Día

A duffle that’s also a backpack.

This bag can be a backpack or a duffle—and it works well as either. If you plan on walking long distances and want multiple ways to carry your gear comfortably, this is a great option.

Get this if: You expect to walk a lot on your trips—touring cities, say, or doing some light adventuring—and need a comfortable way to carry your stuff, but you don’t require an extra-tough gear bag. Also, this bag is a good choice if you want to support a B Corp and its social and sustainable missions .

Why it’s great: The Cotopaxi Chumpi 35L Duffel Del Día has dedicated backpack straps built into the top that hide away behind two flaps secured by metal clasps when not in use. Many combo backpack-and-duffle designs rely on the handles serving double duty as backpack straps, which usually means they aren’t very good as either. The Chumpi’s dedicated straps allow it to perform as an actually comfortable backpack. When you’re finished wearing it, converting it back into a duffle is simple: Just tuck the backpack straps away and grab the bag by its handles. Unlike several other backpack duffles we tested, this Cotopaxi bag positions its zipper against your back while you’re using it as a backpack. It’s a simple, seemingly obvious (but rare) design choice that lends more peace of mind when you’re walking down a busy street or absentmindedly taking in the sights.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: Is a duffle with shoulder straps as good as a backpack? No. Like most backpack duffles, the Chumpi has a tendency to slouch a bit when it’s on the shoulders. That said, I carried the Chumpi fully packed for several miles while on a trip, and I found that using its backpack straps was a nice alternative to shifting a single shoulder strap from side to side. Note that when we tested the Chumpi, it was available in a range of solid colors. Since then, Cotopaxi has switched to making the duffle using a patchwork of remnant fabrics, which is what the Del Día name refers to. This means that each bag will be one of a kind—but also possibly more boldly colored than some people may like.

Dimensions: 20 by 10.5 by 10.5 inches (LWH) Capacity: 35 liters Other sizes: none

Matador Freefly Packable Duffle

Lightweight and packable.

This ultralight duffle folds away into its own front pocket or compresses further into a cinch sack. The weatherproof material is paired with sealed zippers, which should keep everything inside dry in moderate rain.

Get this if: You want a lightweight alternative bag for emergencies, a day bag when you travel, or a last-second hauler for going around town.

Why it’s great: Unlike many packable or ultralight bags, which tend to behave like unruly sacks unless they’re filled to the hilt, the 30-liter Matador Freefly Packable Duffle manages to keep its shape whether it’s empty, partially packed, or stuffed like a sausage. It doesn’t pack down quite as small as some bags we’ve tested in the past, but it comes close enough—shrinking to about the size of a mango—and it’s much more pleasant to use as an actual bag once it’s on your shoulder. Where this Matador duffle truly excels, though, is in the high quality of its materials. With reinforced, treated nylon and sealed zippers, the Freefly is especially robust for a lightweight packable. Matador added a few compression straps on the side, too, though personally I find them more trouble than they’re worth on most bags.

If all that seems like too much for what you need, Matador also makes the 25-liter On-Grid Packable Duffle , which typically costs about $30 less. However, with unsealed zippers, it’s not as waterproof, and it doesn’t appear to be as durable. We’ve concluded that having something that should endure years of use and abuse is well worth spending a little more.

All Matador products are backed by a decently trustworthy three-year warranty.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: One glaring flaw is the shoulder strap. Although the strap is adjustable, it’s nothing more than an inch-wide strip of nylon. Even for a pared-down packable bag, that’s pretty meager considering the bag’s 30-liter carrying capacity. For shorter-term carries, this bag does just fine, but if you need a duffle to constantly haul around town, one of our other picks is likely to keep you (and your shoulders) happier. However, if you need a spare bag to tuck into your suitcase, an extra gym bag while traveling, or a way to carry purchases you pick up on a trip, this bag is a great choice. This duffle comes in only one color, black.

Dimensions: 22 by 11 by 8 inches (LWH) Capacity: 30 liters Other sizes: none

WaterField Packable Duffel

A packable bag for travel.

Like the Matador, this packable duffle folds into its own pocket and is weatherproof. A few thoughtful details—including a luggage loop—make the WaterField more suitable for travel than other models we tested.

Get this if: You need a packable duffle that easily doubles as a carry-on item—it has a luggage handle slot—and provides extra weather protection.

Why it’s great: WaterField continues to make some of the best overall bags we’ve come across in the past few years, and the Packable Duffel is no exception. It’s more expensive than the Matador Freefly , but its upgraded materials and more-robust stitching and build may make the higher cost worth it for certain people. Travelers especially will welcome the luggage loop, which fits over suitcase handles. The exterior of the bag is made from Taslan—a lightweight but substantial woven fabric with an added water-resistant coating, which is complemented by self-sealing waterproof zippers similar to those on the Matador. The interior is lined with a ripstop nylon. Both fabrics are very high-quality materials, helping the bag stand out from the competition. How, exactly? You can scrunch this bag down to about the size of a couple of pairs of socks (it fits into a 9.5-by-8.5-inch pocket), store it for weeks, then open it up and shake it out, and the bag will look fresh and presentable without creases or stress lines. It doesn’t pack down quite as small as the Matador, but many people might prefer its more-structured design. The bag has no shoulder strap, but the handles are long enough to let you shoulder the bag and carry it under your arm.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: We wish the nylon strap made for looping over your suitcase handle were more robust. Many companies making underseat bags have opted for an entire “slip-through” panel, which holds the bag securely against your luggage without letting it slouch over.

Dimensions : 8 by 18 by 10 inches (LWH) Capacity : 24 liters (expands to 30 liters) Other sizes : none

Dakine Split Roller 110L Bag

A rolling duffle to check.

This bag offers the space and easy-to-maneuver wheels of a good suitcase in the flexible shape of a duffle bag. Multiple interior and exterior compartments let you easily organize and separate all of your gear, too.

price may vary by color or style

Get this if: You want a rolling duffle that’s well organized. Also, this is a good choice if you need a bag that’s great for checked-luggage excursions and other types of long-distance travel but want something a little more pliable and easy to maneuver than a traditional wheeled suitcase .

Why it’s great: The Dakine Split Roller 110L Bag combines the best parts of checked luggage—internal organization, wheels, and a cavernous interior—with the soft, flexible frame of a duffle bag. The Split Roller opens like a clamshell; one side of the “shell” is divided into top and bottom compartments, and the other consists of one large main compartment. Mesh dividers separate all three compartments to keep everything in place. When you expand this duffle, it holds about 110 liters—nearly 20 liters more than our top pick for checked luggage . But the Split Roller can also adjust to carrying lighter loads, as it works similarly to an expansion case: The bag has a collapsible brace in the front section that can either fold out for extra space or fold back to let the top of the bag lie flat. Two external pockets let you easily access your everyday things and travel items without opening the bag itself. (The duffle also comes in an 85-liter version .)

Similar to many of the rolling duffle models we tested, the Split Roller has dependable #10 YKK zippers and 8 cm urethane wheels. Both features are good enough for a bag of this design and price. Dakine also uses a variety of polyester and Cordura nylon materials for various versions of the Split Roller, ranging from 600-denier polyester (good for most people) to 1,000-denier Cordura blend with DWR coating (useful if you abuse your gear or travel through tough or wet conditions). We tested the 600-denier polyester fabric in the black color, and it seemed plenty durable for a travel duffle. It’s also the least expensive fabric option that Dakine offers; if you instead opt for one of the tougher, water-resistant options, you pay a little more. Dakine covers its products with a limited lifetime warranty .

Flaws but not dealbreakers: If the Split Roller is not packed properly—with the heaviest items toward the wheels—the bag can lean and even tilt over when left upright. More often than not, the Split Roller stays upright, but it isn’t as stable as the Patagonia Black Hole Wheeled Duffel Bag 100L . However, the bag’s well-thought-out organization and durable construction more than make up for this small frustration.

Dimensions: 32 by 17 by 13 inches (LWH) Capacity: 110 liters Other sizes: 85 liters

Yeti Panga 50L Waterproof Duffel

A tough bag for wet adventures.

If you want the toughest possible duffle, this is our choice. It’s comfortable to carry, waterproof, and close to indestructible. However, it typically costs nearly twice as much as the 55-liter version of the Patagonia Black Hole.

Get this if: You want the absolute toughest, most durable waterproof duffle for your adventures—particularly if those adventures leave you wading with your gear through streams or torrential rains.

Why it’s great: A waterproof nylon shell and zipper keep your stuff dry even if you submerge the Yeti Panga 50L Waterproof Duffel completely. I didn’t quite believe it until I tested the duffle several times, carrying it fully packed into the beach breaks of Oahu’s North Shore, where its impermeable barrier held in enough air to easily float my 220-pound frame and still kept the towels, clothes, and sneakers inside bone-dry. If you’re on a trip where your bag might end up in the water, you’re sure to appreciate this feature. Like the Patagonia Black Hole Duffel , the Yeti Panga Waterproof Duffel comes with a plethora of lash points that you can use to secure your bag on your adventures. Thanks to its rigidity, the Panga is also surprisingly comfortable to use as a backpack. (Its handles serve as the backpack straps.) The Panga comes in two larger sizes, as well: 75 liters and 100 liters .

Flaws but not dealbreakers: The price of the Yeti Panga is nearly double what you pay for a similarly sized Patagonia Black Hole. All that weatherproofing isn’t light, either—the Panga is the heaviest bag we tested, weighing more than 5 pounds when empty. If you need a waterproof bag as tough as the Panga that also includes wheels for load assistance, the Ortlieb Duffle RS is a good option. However, wheels are just one more thing to break on a bag, and the necessary skid plates and axles tend to make rolling duffle bags like the Ortlieb a bit less flexible than the Panga. The Panga comes in two colors: gray and tan.

Dimensions: 23.5 by 10 by 14 inches (LWH) Capacity: 50 liters Other sizes: 75 liters , 100 liters

If you don’t mind a stylized look for your everyday-carry bag: Previously we listed the Topo Designs Classic Duffel 20″ in the Competition section, but we now believe that you should consider it if you like its look. This is a great 27.5-liter duffle with Cordura nylon and rucksack details, but it has a specific style that many people may not like. Topo has a reputation for making excellent gear, though, and if you find this bag appealing, you won’t go wrong with it.

If you transport heavy stuff that can’t get wet: Consider the 85-liter Ortlieb Duffle RS , which is a decent waterproof alternative to the Yeti Panga 50L Waterproof Duffel, especially if you prefer built-in wheels to assist with the load. The Ortlieb bag, which is made with PVC-coated polyester fabric, has a rigid aluminum floor plate; this piece protects the base of the bag without taking up a significant amount of space (an issue with other rolling duffle bags). Note that all the extra parts mean more complexity and more things to break. Our biggest complaint, though, is that when the bag is left upright, it has a tendency to tip over because of its narrow wheelbase. (The bag also comes in 110- and 140-liter sizes.)

We began our research by poring through brand websites, reading bag blogs, and surveying a multitude of review sites. We divided the field into several broad categories: duffles for everyday use plus weekend trips and longer travel, backpack duffles, packable duffles, and duffles meant to haul adventure gear. Working from an initial list of 88 possible contenders, we considered each duffle’s design, accessibility, size, features, organization, materials, price, and brand warranty. Using those criteria, we narrowed the list down to 33 bags that we called in for hands-on evaluation.

To test the duffles, I packed and unpacked each one and used them as much as possible in my day-to-day life. With every bag I tested, I asked myself, “Would I live with this bag? Could it replace something I already have?” Specifically, I looked at the following:

Ease of use and accessibility: How easy is the bag to pack, unpack, and otherwise use in everyday situations? Does it have enough pockets? Are they well organized and well placed? I also kept a close eye on zippers and how they acted, tugging them from different angles. It was especially important to me that the zippers on our picks were easy to open on the go, even when the bag was hanging from a shoulder.

Carrying comfort: A great bag is pretty useless if it isn’t comfortable to heft and cart around. After I loaded up each bag with as much gear, clothes, sneakers, books, and usual ephemera of life as I could, I carried it around. I spend a lot of my time on the move, so each of our potential picks became—at least for a short while—something of an everyday-carry companion in my life until I understood the bag’s character.

Quality of the materials: Most bags are made from one of a handful of fabrics (nylon, waxed canvas, polyester). I paid special attention to the material’s weight, heft, and weave, as well as any special tech like TPU coatings.

Weight: Duffles should be light enough to carry easily but not so light that they feel flimsy or about to tear. Most of our picks weigh less than 3.5 pounds.

Cost: We eliminated any duffles that we determined were overpriced for what they were. You do get what you pay for in this category, though, and better quality and materials are often worth spending just a little more.

Guarantee or warranty: Not all company policies are equal. We favored bags that came with a warranty of two years or more.

Versatile/adventure duffles

Sea to Summit Duffle Bag : Although this heavy, water-resistant adventure duffle is good for the price, we were more impressed by the consistent performance and simplicity of the Patagonia Black Hole (our pick among versatile duffles) and the sturdier construction of the Yeti Panga (our pick among waterproof duffles).

The North Face Base Camp Duffel L : This duffle is similar to the Sea to Summit Duffle Bag, except it lacks that bag’s rigidity and attention to detail.

Lo & Sons Catalina Deluxe : We liked the separate compartment at the bottom of the bag that allows you to pack a few pairs of shoes, say, or to separate out dirty laundry as you travel. But the materials of this duffle weren’t as good as those of other picks, and it didn’t carry as comfortably.

Everyday duffles

Mission Workshop Transit Duffle : We aren’t sure who this laptop duffle is for. The bag was so divided up and over-organized that we had trouble carrying much of anything in it. In addition, the main zipper was too short, which made it hard for us to open the center of the bag all the way.

Bellroy Lite Duffel : We very nearly made this one of our picks except for the odd design of its top zipper closure. That zipper extends out past the edges of the bag’s main compartment, which makes it easier to access the interior but also leaves two large openings on either end of the bag when it’s closed. The extra length of zipper does fold down, but the bag doesn’t have buttons or clasps to keep it shut. The gap feels like a large oversight, especially given the duffle’s price.

Backpack duffles

Osprey Transporter Duffel 40 : This duffle bag wasn’t great to pack or carry in our tests. The materials felt thin, and the straps didn’t sit well on our shoulders when the duffle was fully packed.

Piorama A10 : An adjustable duffle bag that’s both a day bag and an extra-large backpack? Seems like it should be great, but in practice the design felt fiddly, and the cinched sphincter-like ends were unsettling.

Topo Designs Mountain Duffel : The one flaw of this Topo backpack duffle is that the shoulder straps are placed on the bottom of the bag, which means that as you wear it, the zipper is worryingly exposed to the world.

Rolling duffles

Patagonia Black Hole Wheeled Duffel Bag 100L : The rolling Black Hole’s design is identical to that of the non-rolling version that we like, except for the addition of wheels, a reinforced base, and haul handles. Those additions do make it heavier and less flexible than the non-rolling bag. The best part of the design is that it stands upright unassisted, even when empty. But most travelers are better served by the organization and extra pockets in the Dakine Split Roller .

Amazon Basics Ripstop Wheeled Duffel 30″ : Inexpensive and well organized, this Amazon Basics duffle could almost qualify as a budget pick. However, you get what you pay for in this case, and we found that most of the internal materials, such as the pocket dividers, weren’t especially durable. Most people are better served spending a bit more for quality materials.

eBags Mother Lode 29″ Checked Rolling Duffel : The Mother Lode is more of a hybrid piece of checked luggage than a true rolling duffle. Most of the bag is shaped around a hard-shell bottom, which seems to take away from the flexibility of a rolling duffle. You’re likely to be happier choosing one of our other duffle picks or one of our checked-luggage picks.

Osprey Transporter Wheeled Duffel 90 : This Osprey model is a large, cavernous bag on wheels similar to the Patagonia Black Hole Wheeled Duffel Bag. But the Patagonia duffle has a sturdier frame and tougher materials than the Osprey, which needs a bit more structural reinforcement to compete. Again, however, we ultimately preferred the organization and split interior of the Dakine Split Roller in this category.

We also tested duffles from American Apparel, Incase, Marmot, Osprey, Thule, and Tortuga that have since been discontinued.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

We’re testing Peak Design’s Travel Duffel in both the 35- and 65-liter sizes.

Meet your guide

Kit Dillon is a senior staff writer at Wirecutter. He was previously an app developer, oil derrick inspector, public-radio archivist, and sandwich shop owner. He has written for Popular Science, The Awl, and the New York Observer, among others. When called on, he can still make a mean sandwich.

Further reading

Wirecutter’s Favorite Bags, Totes, Backpacks and Carryalls

by Truth Headlam

Whether you’re going to school, work, the gym, the store, or on vacay, you need a bag. Here’s the Wirecutter-recommended carrying gear we love most.

The Best Gym Bag

by Kit Dillon

After stuffing more than 40 gym bags with clothes, gear, water bottles, and more, we want to carry the KNKG Plus Duffel  to our next workout.

The Best Underseat Luggage and Personal-Item Bags

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.

I Took 5 Trips in 6 Months. My Go-To Weekender Bag Was This Surprisingly Spacious Backpack.

by Elissa Sanci

Struggling to pack for your weekend away? The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L fits so much more than you’d expect.

Best Luggage for an African Safari 2024: Top 11 Bags and Backpacks Reviewed

Are you looking for the best safari luggage for your trip?

That’s what we’ve got for you here. I’ve been through a lot of bags on my many trips to Africa. This list includes what I’ve found to be THE best luggage for safari.

These bags check all the boxes. They’re roomy enough for all your gear, aren’t too heavy empty, and are comfortable to get around with. And they’re sturdy enough to withstand the rigours of a long camping safari.

No time to read the whole article? Here’s the best of the best bag for your safari ⤵️

✔️ Cotopaxi Uyuni 46L Duffel

⭐️ RATED: 5 out of 5 with over 50 reviews

• At 46L, the perfect carry-on size for long or short trips
• Light at 1.5 lbs / 0.7 kg
• 5 external handles and stowable shoulder strap
• Guaranteed for Good™️

Plus, safaris companies do have rules when it comes to luggage. The bag you choose can have a big impact on your trip.

Below you’ll find my all-time favourite types of bags, and what makes them my favourites. I’ve narrowed it down to only the best of the best bags for safari. These will work whether you’re heading to South Africa, East Africa, Botswana, or any other of the incredible safari destinations in Africa.

When it comes to what luggage to take on safari, I recommend a lightweight, good-quality nylon duffel bag . I prefer these over leather or canvas simply because nylon tends to be lighter.

But, I’ve included the best leather and canvas options as well. The choice is yours!

Join our new Facebook Travel Community!

The Best Safari Travel Bags

Here is the best of the best luggage for travel to Africa. They’re all soft-sided and lightweight, without any unnecessary extras that take up room in the bag or add weight.

BEST SAFARI DUFFEL BAG

Size: 22″ x 11″ x 10″ Weight: 1.5 lbs / 0.7 kg

➤ Cotopaxi Uyuni 46L Duffel

This is a great , lightweight bag, made with durable, double-ripstop nylon. It’s the best duffel bag for safari.

It has some really useful features :

• a padded laptop sleeve with external access.
• top side pocket and collapsible laundry pocket.
• 5 external handles, stowable shoulder strap
• fits well when worn with the shoulder strap crossbody, and the bag diagonal across your back; good for carrying longer distances

✔️ Find the Cotopaxi Uyuni 46L Duffel on Amazon

Size: 21 x 14 x 9 inches Weight: 1.4 lbs / 0.63 kg

➤ Osprey Daylight Duffel

⭐️ RATED: 4.6 out of 5 with over 50 reviews

This duffel has everything you should be looking for in the best bag for safari travel. The wide opening is perfect for managing your items, making it easy to find what you’re looking for.

The hand grips also act as a shoulder strap and as backpack straps

More great features :

• there’s a zippered pocket on one end.
• long zippered pocket down one side.
• has a small, easy-access external pocket
• made of 300D packcloth
• The single compartment makes it easy to arrange your things according to your own system.
• the bag is covered by Osprey’s “ All Mighty Guarantee “

🧳 Find the Osprey Daylight Duffel price ➤

Size: 23″ x 13″ x 11″ Weight: 4.2 lbs / 1.9 kg

➤ The Drakensberg Weekender (L)

If you’re set on the idea of a traditional canvas safari bag, this is a great option. While it’s not quite as squishable, it’s not much heavier than some of the nylon bags.

Here are a few of its features:

• a roomy 60L. May not be carry-on-able if packed too full.
• the durable canvas is 100% cotton with leather trim.
• has a padded bottom and internal pocket.

✔️ Find the Weekender on Amazon

Size: 21″ x 11″ x 10″ Weight: 4.5 lbs / 2.0 kg

➤ Cenzo Vecchio Italian Leather Travel Bag

If you love the thought of a decadent, high-quality leather bag, then this is the perfect safari bag for you.

Here’s what you get:

• full-grain calf-skin leather
• durable, tear proof, stain resistant beige canvas lining
• inside zippered pocket.
• floor-to-floor zipper
• hand grips and detachable shoulder strap.
• brass zipper and hardware

✔️ Find the Cenzo Vecchio Travel Bag on Amazon

Size: 22″ x 12.5″ x 9″ Weight: 1.8 lbs/ 0.822 kg

➤ Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler (S)

⭐️ RATED: 4.5 out of 5 with over 545 reviews

This bag is a roomy 40L, and also comes in 60L and 90L, in case you have a lot of gear.

Here are its main features :

• it’s incredibly durable, made of abrasion-resistant and water-repellant material.
• folds into itself for storage.
• has tuck-way backpack straps, side strap, side and top handles
• U-zip provides full access
• has an easy-access end compartment and external side pocket.
• equipped with a detachable inside mesh divider
• comes with the amazing No Matter What™ Lifetime Warranty.

✔️ Find the Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler (S) on Amazon

Size: 21.6″ x 12″ x 8.6″ Weight: 0.9 lb / 0.4 kg

➤ G4Free Travel Duffel

⭐️ RATED: 4.5 out of 5 with over 1,600 reviews

If your budget is straining at the seams, this duffel is a good, affordable option. I’ve used a similar bag, and it worked just fine for several months.

With this bag you get:

• hand grips and a detachable shoulder strap.
• one long zipper along the top of the main compartment.
• front pockets that can hold your passport and boarding pass.
• external pouches on either end for snacks and reusable water bottle.
• the option to fold it up into a small packet. This also makes it a good option if you want to tuck a spare bag in your main one if you’re a big souvenir shopper.
• the same capacity as the more expensive bags.

However, with a lower-quality bag, even one that’s fairly sturdy and well-made like this one, you take a chance on tears and broken zippers. Be sure to pack some duct tape , just in case.

✔️ Find the G4Free Duffel on Amazon

Size: 22″ x 14″ x 9″ Weight : 3.4 lb / 1.54 kg

➤ Osprey Transporter Carry-On

⭐️ RATED: 4.4 out of 5 with 20 reviews

This 44L bag has a long shoulder strap and hand grips, as well as stow-away backpack straps. It’s a great choice for short hauls as a backpack.

However, the padding is thin in the backpack straps, so don’t plan to use it as a long-haul backpack. Remember, the straps add a bit of bulk.

This bag also features:

• 1/3, 2/3 clam shell opening.
• two zippered mesh interior pockets, plus an external zippered access pocket for your 1L bag of liquid products.
• the same durable, weather-resistant, rubbery fabric as the Global Carry-on above.
• front panel organizing pocket.
• internal zippered compartments and compression straps.
• limited lifetime warranty

✔️ Find the Transporter on Amazon

Size: 22″ x 14″ x 11″ Weight : 4.2 lb / 1.9 kg

➤ Cotopaxi Allpa 42L Travel Pack

⭐️ RATED: 4.6 out of 5 with over 90 reviews

Lightweight, much sturdier than it looks, and very roomy. Every bag is different, and the colours make it easy to pick out of a pile. The hip belt is adjustable for different torso sizes , so you get a more comfortable fit.

You also get:

• clam shell opening with zippered mesh dividers
• padded laptop and tablet sleeve
• rain cover included, but quite waterproof on its own
• exterior water bottle pocket
• the company donates 1% of sales to non-profits, to support a healthier planet
• also available in a 35L size

** A bit smaller at 35L, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack has the same look and the same great features. PLUS it has an added upgrade – the waist belt is now detachable for those times when it just isn’t necessary.

✔️ Find the Cotopaxi Allpa 42L and the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L on Amazon

Size: approx. 27″ x 13″ x11″ Weight: 3lb 9 oz

➤ Gregory Stout 45 Plus Backpack

⭐️ RATED: 4.5 out of 5 with 2 reviews

Discount mysteriously disappeared from Amazon

If you’re planning to backpack through Africa, you’ll be spending a lot of time with your pack on your back.

If that’s the case, then your best backpack for safari is going to be one that was made to be worn that way.

This one has:

• adjustable and breathable, important in hot climates
• sternum strap, 2 zippered hip belt pockets
• bottom compression strap
• integrated rain cover

The downside is that it’s top loading, which is enormously inconvenient to pack. Even with bottom access as well, it’s a hassle to pack and unpack.

It’s also a bit oo long to use as a carry-on if it’s packed full.

For those reasons, I only recommend a pack like this if you really need it. But, if you are wearing it for long distances, you’ll be really glad to have a comfortable backpack.

✔️ Find the price of the Gregory Stout 45 Plus Backpack on Amazon

Size: approx. 16″ x 11″ x7″ Weight: 7 oz

➤ sinotron 22L Backpack

⭐️ RATED: 4.6 out of 5 with 1308 reviews

Aside from your main bag for safari, you’ll need a daypack to take out on games drive or bush walk.

As well, if you’re travelling throughout Africa, you’ll need a bag to take on your daily adventures.

You’ll want to take your reusable water bottle with you, sun protection, a jacket if the mornings are cool, and maybe your extra camera batteries, for example.

This daypack is perfect:

• it has wide, comfortable straps
• contains a sleeve for an optional water bladder
• it’s extremely water-resistant
• has external side pockets for your water bottle
• a large packet on the outside that clips shut
• there is an internal zip pocket

This one is 22L, and can be used as a shopping bag, too, if you’ll be spending any time in towns and cities.

A light tote bag is great, too. I prefer a backpack for ease of carrying on bush walks, though.

✔️ Find the sinotron 22L Backpack on Amazon

🇨🇦 Luggage and Gear for Canadian Travellers ⇩

Hiking Backpack 40L

This is a great pack to wear long distances. At 40L and 26″x12″x10″, it can fit carry-on guidelines if the top is not stuffed full (21.5″). It also comes in a larger size if you’re taller. Has multiple compartments and a side zip.

Gadgets and Gear

Here is a site with camping gear that is great for travelling in Africa. Find headlamps, tents, battery-powered lanterns, travel pillows, luggage scales , and more. Their autumn sale is a great time to gear up.

7 Most Important Rules for Choosing the Best Safari Luggage

There are a few rules when it comes to choosing the best bag for travelling to Africa. The most important requirements for your bag should be:

➥ It meets Luggage Restrictions ➥ Soft sided ➥ Lightweight ➥ Comfortable to Carry ➥ WithOUT wheels ➥ Carry-on size ➥ Prepare for a walking safari

1. Consider Safari Luggage Restrictions

Safari luggage restrictions are a serious consideration when you’re deciding on a bag. For example, if you’ll be flying into a safari camp on a bush plane, there are often strict weight limits .

You may be permitted no more than a 33 lb bag, though some companies allow up to 44 lbs. These rules can be very strictly enforced. Safari luggage size can be an issue as well.

Be careful to always double-check with your tour operator before you leave home to be sure.

Even if you won’t be travelling on small planes , safari vehicles have limited space. They may have rules, too, against rigid frames or wheels on your luggage. Again, always consult with your tour company to avoid hassle later.

2. It Should be Soft-sided

Soft luggage for safari is always the way to go. There will be limited vehicle space for a group’s bags. As the best luggage for safari travel, duffel bags can be thrown in with everybody else’s without worry.

As well, soft-sided luggage fits together better and take up less space . This is true on the plane as well. A soft bag is easier to fit in the overhead and under the seat in front of you.

*Remember that hard-sided bags and trolley bags aren’t allowed on many of the small planes used on fly-in safaris. Check with your tour company .

3. Lightweight but Sturdy

The less your bag weighs when it’s empty , the more you can pack it with and remain within the weight limit.

When I’m choosing my bag, I steer away from heavy canvas, and especially leather bags. The extra weight just isn’t worth it , no matter how good it looks.

The airline or your safari company will have weight limits that you need to consider. But also remember that you need to be able to comfortably lift and carry your bag .

For this reason, I don’t always recommend tools like compression bags. Just because you can fit more into your bag, doesn’t mean that you should.

And remember, you do tend to get what you pay for . It’s great to find in cheap back that looks like it fits the bill, but a broken zipper or split seam can throw a pretty big wrench into your trip.

Your bag will be tossed around, mashed under other bags, potentially exposed to weather – it needs to be tough.

Look for sales, shop around, but ultimately go for quality over price. The Eagle Creek bag above is a good middle-of-the-road choice.

4. Comfortable to Carry

– Whether you decide on a duffel with just a shoulder strap and hand grips, a standard backpack, or a combination of the two, try it out . Fill it up and walk around.

One fixable issue you might find is a duffel with a shoulder strap that cuts into your shoulder a bit . This can be a problem especially if you’re going with a budget bag. A seatbelt cover like this is an easy fix that I’ve used, and it helps a lot.

5. No Wheels

Wheeled bags were a genius invention, and are a gift to travellers in a lot of situations. Safari isn’t one of them .

Safaris often involve travelling in small bush planes. Wheeled bags, as well as hard-sided ones, generally are NOT allowed on board.

They’ll also get in the way when any safari vehicle gets packed up. Sometimes they aren’t even allowed on safari trucks, due to the limited space. Go for squishable when you can.

The wheels decrease the available room in the bag and add weight to it, too .

If you’ll have a long walk through the airport, get a cart . Otherwise, you’ve tried the bag and determined that you can comfortably carry it ( see #3 above ), so you’re all set.

6. Carry-on Size

– The general size for an international carry-on is 9″ x 14″ x 22″ and 40 lb (18 kg), or 45L. But each airline is a bit different , and things do change. So always check your airline’s website before you decide on your bag.

If your safari plans do include a small aircraft, there is usually a tight safari luggage size/weight restriction . There are rarely exceptions to these restrictions. A luggage scale is always a good idea.

In short, the size duffel bag for safari I recommend is the largest that still fits within my airline’s carry-on limits.

7. Prepare for a Walking Safari or Bushwalk

Chances are good that, aside from epic game drives, you get to go on walking safaris. These are also known as bushwalks.

You’re going to need to take a few things with you – sun protection and water, for example. And to carry them, a comfortable, roomy day pack is perfect. A lightweight, packable one will come in handy many times during your trip.

Packing Tips

First things first – the best luggage for an African safari is a single carry-on bag . This is always my first recommendation.

Keep in mind that when I travel to Africa, I go for no less than a month, and usually more than one. It really is possible to take everything you need in one bag .

Unless you’re staying in one place for your entire trip – and really, even if you are – having just one bag to worry about makes life i nfinitely easier.

As well, having your bag with you on your flight is a big stress reliever . It happens anytime I’ve watched my own luggage disappear into the cargo hold of a plane. I feel like I’m holding my breath until I see it again at my destination.

And of course, there have been times when I didn’t see it at my destination. At least, not until I was leaving again. That can put a serious damper on your trip.

For those reasons, the bags above are all carry-on-sized . They’re all about the same size as the one that I’ve travelled through Africa with for 6 months at a stretch. On safari and just exploring.

Trust me, it’s very possible ! If you need help getting there, we have some epic packing advice, and a complete packing list for you.

What to Clothes to Wear on Safari

When you’re deciding on your safari packing list , there are a few things you need to think about:

• Pack safari clothing that will help you stay comfortable in the heat. Mornings can be cool, though, so be sure to bring the appropriate clothes.
• Browse these quick packing lists to find out the best things to pack for the weather.
• If you’re not sure what to expect weather-wise during your trip, find out when and where to expect cooler weather.

It’s also important to consider the colour of your clothes. It’s more important than you might think:

• Camouflage and military-style clothing are frowned on in Africa. It is even illegal for everyone except members of the military in some countries. Best leave it at home.
• Plain khaki colours are best. They allow you to blend in when on a game drive or bushwalk, so you can watch the animals unnoticed.
• Dark colours like black, navy, and red will attract mosquitoes and tsetse flies. Tsetse flies, which can transmit African sleeping sickness, are also attracted by metallics and bright colours. Again, khaki is a good choice.

How to Pack for an Africa Safari: The Essentials

• malaria meds
• insect repellent   with   DEET
• toothbrush & toiletries
• small  towel
• hair clips, ties, razor
• wide-brimmed  hat  with strap/ clip
• sunglasses and cord/ chums
• camera /extra batteries & SD card
• downloaded  travel
• flashlight  &  headlamp
• charging cables
• power  adapter
• laundry sheets
• foldable  daypack
• filtered water  bottle
• downloaded  map app
• period products
• clothes that cover shoulder/knees
• toilet paper
• 4 short-sleeved shirts
• 2 light, loose, linen-y pants
• 5 pairs underwear
• 1 pair closed-toed shoes
• 5 pairs socks
• 1 pair flip-flops
• 2 pairs of light pyjamas
• thin scarf /bandana to soak, & wear on the neck

You’ll use your laundry sheets to rinse underwear and anything else that needs it. Some tours will have a laundry service, especially if you’re on a luxury safari.

And don’t be afraid to wear the same thing more than once!

More Essentials for Safaris and Travel

Now that you’ve found the perfect bag, there are a few more things to consider to ensure a smooth trip.

✔️ Travel Insurance is a must. Safety Wing Nomad Insurance will take care of you from take-off to return home. Hook up with SafetyWing Nomad Insurance

✔️ Never count on having drinkable water when travelling in Africa . Great alternatives to buying plastic bottles are to carry a LifeStraw or LifeStraw water bottle . One will filter 4000 L of water, and the company provides drinking water to school kids for every straw sold. Find the LifeStraw Filter on Amazon or Find the LifeStraw Water Bottle on Amazon

✔️ Soap-free shampoo, conditioner, body and face wash, and skin care bars are the perfect way to a void checking your bag because you have too much liquid. Ethique products are an excellent option. Find Ethique on Amazo n

Luggage for an Africa Safari: FAQ

What size bag do i need for safari.

I recommend a maximum size of 45L in a soft-sided bag . Large enough to fit everything you need, but still small enough to be carry-on size.

Measurements of 10 x 12 x 25 inches and 33-44 lbs are average , but a soft squishable bag might be given a bit of leeway in size.

What size luggage is allowed on an African safari?

Small planes used within a safari can have strict size limits that depend on the airline. An average is a 33-44 lbs soft sided bag, measuring about 10 x 12 x 25 inches when it’s all packed.

What should you pack for a trip to Africa if you want to see wildlife

On safari in Africa, the goal is to blend, so clothing in neutral colours like khaki, green, brown and grey are best if you want to see wildlife.

What kind of shoes are best to wear on safari?

On safari it’s best to wear breathable, closed-toed shoes, with soles that can withstand long acacia thorns .

What not to wear on safari?

The goal is to blend, so leave bright, white , and crazy-patterned clothes at home. Also, leave camo behind – it is strictly for military in Africa, and is illegal in some countries. Also, avoid bright and dark colours as they attract mosquitoes and tsetse flies.

Is it ok to wear grey on safari?

Yes , neutral colours like grey , as well as browns, greens, and khakis are good colours to wear on safari.

Do I need a hat for safari?

The sun can be strong in Africa, and you’ll be spending long hours outside on safari. A cap or preferably a wide-brimmed hat is essential, and a chin strap or hat clip is handy.

What are the best duffel bags for safari travel?

A sturdy , l ightweight nylon duffel with comfortable straps and at least one external , easy-access pocket is best for safari travel. Good , covered zippers that will keep the dirt out are important, and look for a duffel with a good warranty .

Summing it Up: The Best Luggage for an African Safari

The best luggage for an African safari is a lightweight duffel bag. But as you can see, there are other options that also work well.

And they’ll work whether you’re heading to South Africa, East Africa, Botswana , or any other of the incredible safari destinations in Africa.

Once you’ve got your bag, you’re one step closer to safari! Africa is an amazing place, and you don’t need to take a lot with you to have an unforgettable time.

It might be daunting to consider travelling so far from home with just a carry-on. Find everything from products designed to minimize what you need to pack, to the pros and cons of packing cubes in IWIF’s epic packing guide .

Happy travels!

You might also like: • How to Plan a Trip to Africa: an Essential Guide • What to Bring When Travelling to Africa: Unexpected Essentials • Types of Safaris in Africa • Travel Resources

Share this article

I had been travelling for years before I first went to Africa. Once I had been on my first safari, I was hooked. Now I go back every chance I get. I've lived in Botswana, explored the wild coast of Namibia, toured Southern Africa and so much more.

There's no place that has more to offer a traveller than this enormous and stunning continent. I write about it here to hopefully inspire you to experience it for yourself, and to make your travels easier. It'll be the trip of your life! Happy travels!

Best safari Duffel bags

Are you looking for the best safari Duffel bags ? Are you planning to go on an exciting adventure, like a safari? Then you need to be well prepared for it. One of the most important items that you will need for going on an African safari is the safari duffel bag. On it you will be carrying all the materials and personal things that you will need to bring with you during the adventure. It is important to know that you will be holding your bag for long periods of time. This is why your safari duffel bag should be comfortable and easy to carry around.

Some safari duffel bags will be better for you than others. This will depend on how long you will be traveling. It can also depend on how many safaris you will be doing. Other important things to consider are your personal preferences when traveling. This can be, for example, whether you usually carry a lot of luggage or not so much stuff.

Read more: Best safari camera for beginners

Key features of the best safari duffel bags

There are some key features that every safari duffel bag should have to be perfect for your adventure. These are being waterproof, being lightweight and meeting the safari luggage requirements of weight and size for air transportation.

Depending on the type of safari that you will be doing, the luggage restrictions will be different. It is important to know this if you will be boarding a small aircraft during your journey. Moreover, it is important to be aware of the specifications of the different airlines. Once you have these essential aspects covered, you will find that there are many different safari duffel bags to choose from.

The best duffel bags for safari adventures

As we have mentioned above, there is a wide variety of safari duffel bags to choose from. Depending on your own needs and preferences, there will be some that are better for you than others. Considering the key features that every safari duffel bag should have, we will introduce you to some of the best options. Any of these bags will make your safari adventure an unforgettable journey.

1. Travel Weekender duffel bag

This safari duffel bag is a classic model. It has all of the key features that are essential for an amazing safari experience. Some aspects to highlight from this model are the strong zippers and durable, solid material with which it is made. Moreover, it is very lightweight. It also has many pockets of different sizes. They are distributed throughout the bag. This makes it a very practical option.

This model also has the special feature of being a 3 in 1 bag. It is designed for being used as either a backpack, a shoulder bag or a handbag. When considering its size, it is a standard model. Because of this, it usually fits the requirements of most airlines. It can be suitable for almost every safari experience.

The bag has a capacity of about 40L. It can easily fit everything you need to carry for the adventure. Moreover, it can also be a very practical option to use for other purposes. This is why you can also use it as a gym bag, as an overnight bag or as a holiday bag for a weekend out.

2. Eagle Creek medium duffel bag

The Eagle Creek medium-sized duffel bag is one of the most versatile options. This is because it has a very convenient price. It has also a great quality. It is made of bi-tech fabric. And it is also highly resistant and waterproof. Moreover, it is very light weighted and comfortable to carry around.

This bag has a separate storage compartment. It gives you extra space for storing all the things you need. The dimensions are suitable for every situation. This is why this bag is a very versatile option.

You can find this bag in a wide variety of colors. There are even some options which are a bit bigger. Thus, it is very convenient for those who require extra space in their bags.

3. WOWBOX Duffel bag

The beautiful WOWBOX Duffel bag is one of the best options available in the market. This is mainly because of the great design. This bag is an elegant, pretty and harmonic model. It is also made of resistant materials. These are mainly genuine leather and water-resistant fabric. If you are looking for a top design bag, this option is a great choice.

Another key feature of the WOWBOX Duffel bag is the waterproof shoe compartment. It is located on the side of the bag. Here you can also fit any dirty clothes or other items that you need to keep separate from the rest of your luggage. It also has several pockets of different sizes. This makes the bag very convenient for many purposes.

It comes with an adjustable and detachable shoulder strap. This way, you can have 2 different ways of carrying the bag. Depending on what you prefer and on the different situations that you will encounter, you can choose one or the other.

4. Swissgear Large Lightweight Rolling Duffel

Not all duffel bags need to be carried on the shoulders. There are many different options of safari duffel bags that also have wheels. These are great for those who prefer to avoid carrying too much weight on their backs. If this is your case, a great option for you can be the Swissgear Large Lightweight Rolling Duffel.

This bag has premium Swiss quality. It can be carried both as a handbag and as a rolling bag. Depending on your preferences and on the possibilities of your safari destination, you can choose one way or the other. Its retractable handle makes it possible for you to choose the option that you want, when you want it. The Swissgear Large Lightweight Rolling Duffel has many different compartments. They come in a wide variety of sizes. In them you can fit everything you will need in your adventure.

It has a very compact design. Because of this, the bag is convenient for all occasions. It may be a bit heavier than other duffel bags. But it still has a weight that is perfect for almost all safari situations. The fabric that it is made of is very resistant and solid.

5. Herschel Novel Duffel Bag

The Herschel bags are definitely some of the preferred ones for adventurers. They have a minimalistic and beautiful design. The material they are made of is top quality. Any Herschel duffel bag will make your experience an amazing adventure.

The Herschel Novel is a duffel bag that can fit the needs of almost every safari adventurer. It has a compact design and a very comfortable small size. This makes it one of the best options for those who choose to travel light and simple.

It is made of resistant polyester. It also has an adjustable shoulder strap that you can also remove. This allows you to have two different options for carrying your bag. Depending on the situation and on your preference, you can choose one or the other.

6. S-ZONE 60L Large Canvas

The S-ZONE 60L Large Canvas is a duffel bag with a classic and elegant design. This is why it never goes out of fashion. It has a capacity of 60L. It is a great option for those who prefer to carry more things in their adventures.

The bag is made of resistant and solid materials. For this reason, it can last for a long period of time. It also makes it perfect for almost all types of safari adventures. It has two additional pockets of very easy access. They give you more storage space.

The S-ZONE 60L Large Canvas has an adjustable shoulder strap that can also be removed. This is why you can carry this amazing bag either on your hands or on your shoulders. It is a bit bigger than other models. But it still has a compact design. This makes it perfect for every kind of safari and for almost every aircraft. You will not have any issues when carrying this great duffel bag on different transportations.

This duffel bag is also perfect for using it for other purposes. If you choose it, you will end up with a great bag for multiple uses. You will be able to carry it for all types of adventures and experiences.

A duffel bag for every safari adventure

To sum up, as you can see there is a great variety of bags that you can choose from when going on a safari. Each of the options that we have introduced here are some of the best safari duffel bags that you will find on the market. Depending on your own preferences and on what your safari experience will be like, you might prefer to go for one of these options or another. Whichever bag you choose in the end, be certain that all of these amazing safari duffel bags will not let you down. They will make your safari journey an amazing adventure.

I am a digital marketer who loves helping others succeed. In addition, traveling is another of my passions so this site is the best place to share all what I know and have experienced.

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• Safari Stories
• SAFARI LUGGAGE PACKING ADVICE: What Luggage Should I Take On Safari?

Stories: ALL | ADVICE | EXPEDITIONS | DESTINATIONS | NEWS | PROJECTS

SAFARI LUGGAGE PACKING ADVICE: What luggage should I take on safari?

We answer your safari luggage questions on what to pack your safari clothing and gear into for your safari. You will learn why 'soft' and 'squashable' are the keys to ensuring that your luggage is safari-suitable.

The majority of safari lodges are located in remote areas, with access only by light aircraft and not by airliners. This, in part, dictates the luggage to pack for your safari.

Top 7 tips for selecting the best safari luggage.

Follow our safari luggage advice to find out what luggage - large and small - you will need for your safari.

1. For your main large duffel or holdall, choose safari luggage which is soft and squashable and which has no frame : This is especially true for safari travel to Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, Mozambique, Malawi, Tanzania, and Kenya. The reason for this is rather a practical one. The majority of safari lodges and camps within these countries are accessible only by light aircraft - such as the Cessna 210 shown on this page. As a result, in order for your pilot to fit your luggage into the small, cramped hold, your luggage must not have hard sides, nor rigid frames or structure, and should rather be soft-sided so that the pilot is able to fit (squash) your bag into the plane. The same is true for some overland and expedition-style safaris where there will be limited space for luggage in the safari 4x4.

2. Check on safari luggage limitations : Please check with the safari company you have booked with about luggage limitations for your safari, as the requirements may vary from safari to safari. Where luggage weight limitations are specified, please note that - as the maximum take-off weight in any aircraft has to be strictly adhered to by pilots to maximise your safety on each flight - you may find that your pilot will not be able to take any luggage over the maximum allowed weight per passenger. In this instance, you may have to pay for your luggage to be flown separately.

3. The ideal size for main safari luggage : We recommend that your main safari luggage holdall or duffel should measure 70 x 30 x 30cm in size when full.

4. Carry-on safari luggage : Also take one one smaller carry-on type safari bag to use when you travel - and to take your binoculars and accessories on game drives and walks.

5. Walking safaris : For safaris with a daily walking element, we recommend that you take the large safari holdall as above plus a small safari satchel or safari backpack .This may be the same bag as your carry-on safari bag also.

6. Luggage accessories : Your holdall and daypack are important - but don't forget the ever-important supporting role of smaller luggage items too. Complement your canvas and leather safari duffel bag with a classic, safari-styled toiletry bag in a range of practical designs. As you travel, our African-made canvas and leather Safari Travel Wallet keeps your passport and documents close at hand in style. It's also handy to get a travel lock in advance of your departure and to pack a luggage scale to ensure your bags are within weight limits.

7. Let a travel trolley carry the load : As you are not meant to take safari luggage with a frame, using a travel trolley which is collapsible is a good idea. Simply remove from your safari luggage when you do not need to wheel your safari luggage.

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Safari Clothing Packing Advice: What clothing to pack for your safari.

WALKING SAFARIS

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• South Africa
• The Ultimate Safari Planning Guide
• Safari Packing List
• Safari Luggage
• Safari Budget Guide
• Safari Reading List
• First-Timer’s Tips
• A Typical Day on Safari

Africa , Kenya , South Africa

The best luggage for safari holidays.

Wherever you’re heading on your wildlife travels, picking the best luggage for safari is essential. 

Most safari companies specify a number of rules your safari luggage should follow, regarding the weight, material and features, in order to help it squeeze into cramped places in luggage compartments and your tent. 

But you also need to make sure it holds all your stuff… so what are we to do?! 

Never fear! I’ve done the research on the best bags to take with you, that not only fit your entire packing list but also meet all the requirements of the airlines AND look stylish too!

And remember, if you buy anything after clicking on a link in this post, you’re supporting my blog to keep bringing you unbiased safari luggage reviews like this one! 

Best safari holdalls and duffel bags

Most safari companies recommend a soft holdall case without wheels, as they’re easily squished into planes and onto the back of jeeps. 

If that’s what you’re after, read all about my favourite safari duffel bags right here:

Rufiji Canvas Duffel Bag

A traditional canvas holdall , available in two colour ways and holding an impressive 72 litres of stuff. 

Available exclusively from The Safari Store for £179. Use my code reallywildlife to get an awesome 5% off. 

This is a really stylish holdall in traditional safari colours, and there’ll be no mistaking your bag for another once it appears on the luggage carousel. 

It’s comfortable to carry (as long as you’ve kept within the weight limits!) using the short grab handles, as well as the longer over-the-shoulder strap. 

The zipper opens up really wide, allowing you to see all your belongings quickly and easily.

These bags can be pricey once you’ve already shelled out for the safari itself, but if you go on safaris fairly often, it’s a great investment for the future. 

There are no internal pockets at all, meaning everything is in the same main area when you open it. This isn’t necessarily a problem for everyone, but if you like to be organised and STAY organised, consider a few packing cubes to help. 

>> Click here to buy !

Rab Kit Bag II 80L

One of the largest options on our list of the best safari luggage, this rugged bag has plenty of room for up to 80L of your stuff.

Find it online at Cotswold Outdoor (UK) from £80.  

Despite the amount of stuff it can carry, the Rab kit bag is really easy to transport. Its detachable shoulder straps allow you to wear it like a backpack, while the 4 other handles give you the option of carrying it in many other ways too. 

It’s made from a very hard-wearing and water-resistant fabric, making sure your belongings stay safe and dry no matter how they’re squeezed into luggage compartments or thrown around by luggage handlers!

It’s a matter of personal preference, but I don’t find this bag to be particularly stylish. It’s a bog-standard style only available in a couple of muted colourways, so it doesn’t spark joy as much for me as other brightly coloured choices!

North Face Base Camp Duffel Bag

This medium-sized duffel bag is an iconic choice, offering 71L of space and a classic design.

You can find this holdall in lots of other colourways and sizes at Cotswold Outdoor (UK) for £120. 

The classic North Face holdall is hard-wearing and durable, while also being made from water-resistant, recycled materials. This makes it a sustainable and practical choice too. 

The large interior with a mesh pocket offers plenty of space for your clothes, while a separate compartment on the end can be used to store shoes or dirty laundry while travelling. 

It’s very easy to carry thanks to its flexible and adjustable straps, meaning you can wear it comfortably like a backpack or use the padded side handles to carry as a holdall. 

It’s genuinely difficult to find a con for this one; there are plenty of reasons to choose it as your next safari holdall, which may make it difficult to spot yours on the luggage carousel amongst many lookalike bags. It’s a very popular choice! 

Best wheelie cases for taking on safari 

Though bags with wheels aren’t always recommended, they do make carrying your luggage a whole lot easier! 

My favourite safari suitcases are right here: 

Craghoppers 28” Wheelie Bag

A soft wheelie case , bursting with features and 70 litres of space for all your safari essentials. 

Buy direct from Craghoppers , where two of the colours are currently on sale for £136.50. 

This wheelie bag has tons of space in the main compartment, as well as a number of internal pockets to keep you organised when travelling. If you manage to fill the cavernous 70-litre interior, the wheels on this bag will make navigating through airports and the bush a breeze. 

The soft fabric is made from 19 recycled plastic bottles, so it boasts eco-credentials too. But that doesn’t make it any less secure:  it’s been designed to be slash-resistant for extra security! 

Yes, I’ve already listed the fact this bag has wheels as a pro. However, not all safari companies or airlines recommend bags with wheels as they can be more difficult to fit into the hold on small aeroplanes. That said I have seen wheelie cases being used widely across Africa – just make sure you do your research first.

Osprey Sojourn 60 Travel Pack 

The most suitcase-like bag on our list is packed with features and flexibility, from one of travel’s most widely recognised brands.

Choose between two different colourways from Cotswold Outdoor (UK) for £275.

This bag is incredibly flexible. Thanks to its wheeled chassis, walking through airports will be a breeze. And when you don’t have the option to use the wheels, pick the bag up and carry it like a backpack with its shoulder straps. 

At 60L, it’s not the largest bag on our list, but various compartments and mesh pockets will keep your clothes, toiletries and accessories safe and secure. Even if you overpack, the compression straps help you maximise capacity and meet any limits on dimensions. 

This bag is the most expensive bag reviewed so, naturally, the price will count against it. But if you’re after a well-made bag from a well-known brand, the Osprey Sojourn 60 is a great option. 

Despite the bag’s soft material, it is one of the most structured bags, particularly due to the plastic high road chassis that holds the wheels. That means it won’t be as flexible or as easy to squeeze into luggage compartments and you may get some disapproving looks from the pilot when loading. But the bag’s manoeuvrability is a worthy trade-off if your airline will allow it.

Cabin-friendly safari bags

Many safari-goers swear by keeping their luggage small and going with hand luggage only. This makes travel incredibly efficient, so consider these bags for your next trip:

Craghoppers 40L Holdall

A small but mighty backpack that’s compact enough to fit in the cabin but large enough to fit in plenty of stuff for a short break. 

Buy from the official Craghoppers site from £105. 

The small size means you’ll struggle to go over the weight limits imposed by small aeroplanes. It’s also incredibly comfortable to wear with adjustable straps that can be worn as a backpack or across your shoulder.

Despite its size, the holdall boasts lots of compartments to keep your laptop and tablet secure, as well as smaller internal organiser pockets so you won’t lose your essentials. 

The 40L interior won’t be big enough for long trips but is ideal if you’re committed to travelling with hand luggage only. Plus, many safari lodges offer laundry facilities so you can afford to take less with you.

——–

Whatever you’re looking for in a safari bag, whether it’s space, security or style, our unbiased reviews are designed to help you find it!

Anna is the founder of Really Wildlife. She's a 30-something lover of wildlife travel, vegetables and listening to the Lion King soundtrack on full blast.

9 Best Duffel Bags for Your Next Vacation, According to Testing

These versatile bags are ideal for road trips and air travel alike.

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.

The Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab tests all types of travel bags, including travel backpacks , underseat luggage and suitcases . We test their durability by assessing abrasion resistance, drop testing, water resistance and more. Lab analysts also pack each bag to see how much it can hold and rate the ease of packing. We also consider the weight and strap padding to find the most comfortable bags. Whether you prefer a small weekender style or a rolling duffel, GH experts tested a variety of styles in the Lab and reviewed hundreds more online to make these selections. These duffel bag picks include top-tested styles as well as picks from brands that have previously impressed us in Lab testing.

Our top picks:

Best Overall Duffel Bag

Patagonia black hole duffel bag 55l.

Best Value Duffel Bag

Herschel novel duffel bag.

Best Duffel Bag for Road Trips

Vera bradley cotton large travel duffel bag.

Best Weekender Duffel Bag

Lo & sons the catalina deluxe.

Best Versatile Duffel Bag

Away f.a.r duffle 55l.

Best Adventure Duffel Bag

Eagle creek migrate duffel bag.

Best Duffel Bag with Wheels

L.l.bean large adventure rolling duffle bag.

Best Duffel Bag for Kids

Pottery barn kids mackenzie rainbow heart duffel.

Best Gym Duffel Bag

Puma evercat candidate duffel.

After shopping our top duffel bag picks for your trip, keep reading to learn more about our testing protocols and shopping tips from fiber science experts.

Patagonia has been a top-performing brand in the Textiles Lab for many years with its durable bags and winter coats . The Black Hole Duffel is a popular bag with its sturdy top straps, side handles, a longer shoulder strap and the option to wear it as a backpack for easy toting. With reinforced exposed daisy chains on the side, you can hook on all types of gear. GH analysts especially love that t his whole duffel can actually compress into a small bag , taking up very little space when not in use. Note that the Black Hole duffel is water-resistant, but not entirely waterproof. This pick also comes in a wheeled version , too. Patagonia also has a renowned commitment to sustainability , offering a trade-in program and a shopping interface for used items.

Herschel bags and backpacks have impressed GH analysts by featuring durable materials with simple designs, making them versatile enough to take to the gym or use as a weekender. This duffel bag aced Lab testing. The bottom kept its shape as we packed it making it easy to load and unload, and it showed no signs of wear after abrasion testing. The separate shoe compartment held two pairs of shoes in testing or it could be used to keep dirty clothes separate. GH analysts found the synthetic leather handles comfortable to grip and appreciated the padding on the shoulder strap. However, the plastic hooks for the shoulder straps were not so sturdy. One tester said a hook broke after extensive use.

Vera Bradley duffels come in the brand's classic paisley designs as well as other bright colors and bold patterns. In our tests, we appreciated just how spacious this duffel is. It was able to hold every item in our packing test plus more. Testers liked the flexible fabric that made it easy to shove in the trunk of a car but did note that items shifted around inside the duffel. To keep things where you want them, there are multiple zippered pockets that keep items easily accessible . Reviewers rave that they've had these bags for years and they've stayed in pristine condition long-term. The side handles are long enough that you can also wear them over the shoulder. This pick is made with 100% cotton fabric, and while it's not as durable and nylon or polyester, it didn't show any changes in appearance during our abrasion testing. We do wish that it had a trolley strap so it could easily sit on top of a suitcase.

Lo & Sons The Catalina Deluxe

This classic duffel from Lo & Sons is perfect for a weekend trip as it has a separate shoe compartment and a spacious interior to hold everything you'll need. This bag is available in both canvas and 600D recycled polyester, depending on which style you prefer. With two sizes available, the site has excellent reference images to show what the bags look like when people of different heights and shapes wear them . For a more luxurious option, one GH analyst especially loves the brand's O.G. 2 Bag for being extremely easy to clean by just using a wet wipe.

Away recently launched new adventure travel products with its F.A.R. line. GH analysts especially liked the F.A.R Convertible Backpack and this duffel. Both styles have the option to carry it like a duffel or wear it as a backpack with comfortable padded straps . The large interior held everything in our packing tests and built-in compression straps kept items in place. There are two small zippered pockets — one on the outside and the other inside. We like that it has both top handles and smaller side handles, making it easier to put in a car or the overhead bin. (The smaller 40L version is carry-on compliant!) There are also exterior daisy chains to easily attach extra gear and a side trolley strap to help it sit on top of a suitcase. Analysts did note that the zippers are quite noisy when opening and closing.

Eagle Creek continues to impress us by offering durable travel items that last year after year, including the brand's signature packing cubes . One GH analyst especially loves Eagle Creek duffels for how well the material holds up even after being tossed around. Most duffels are prone to their contents shifting, but the outside compression straps on the Migrate help keep all your items perfectly in place . It features a more sustainable bottom material coating that was developed by harvesting windshield plastics from landfills, though we found it felt a bit waxy and did show some marks. It is a very structured bag and keeps its shape for easy packing. The larger tabs on the zippers are convenient for comfortable opening/closing. There are large top handles as well as smaller handles on all sides, so it's easy to maneuver.

If you prefer to roll your bag but still want the option to pick it up and carry it over your shoulder, a rolling duffel is perfect. This pick from L.L.Bean is available in eight colors with options for monograms, making this a great gift too. It has top handles and smaller side handles for easy lifting. The shoulder strap can be attached when you want to carry it but should be removed when rolling. GH analysts like the less structured fabric that's ideal for overpackers to fit as much as possible . The straps attach together to tighten it, so items don't shift around inside. With all the ways to carry it and the massive interior, this is a great pick for family travel.

This Pottery Barn Kids duffel makes a great gift with monogram options and fun designs , including this rainbow design and a dinosaur print. Not only do they feature fun, playful patterns, but these duffels also hold up to heavy use. GH analysts have tested all types of luggage from PBK and continue to be impressed by the durable materials. Lexie Sachs , Executive Director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab, uses these duffels with her kids and especially loves how easy they are to pack. The brand offers a ton of pieces to complete the set including packing cubes , backpacks , lunch boxes , toiletry bags , rolling suitcases and more.

A gym bag has to hold everything you need without being too bulky — this PUMA bag is up to the challenge. Its amazing organizational design features zippered pockets and a separate shoe compartment to keep smelly sneakers and dirty gym clothes separate. Available in 18 styles, it's made with polyester and is machine washable . While we haven't yet tested this style in Lab, we have tested a variety of products from PUMA and found they are a great value for the affordable price. This bag has over 30,000 rave Amazon reviews and costs less than $30!

How we test duffel bags

The Good Housekeeping Institute has been testing travel products (including duffel bags) for decades. GH analysts tested duffels using standardized test methods and state-of-the-art lab equipment. We also sent duffel bags to testers to use when traveling. Here is how we evaluate duffels:

✔️ Size and weight: Each duffel bag is weighed when empty since online specs aren't always accurate or listed. GH analysts assess the bag's size and construction to determine what it's best suited for. If it's designed to be a personal item or a carry-on, we measure it to ensure it complies with the dimension restrictions of common airlines.

✔️ Abrasion resistance: Swatches of fabric are cut from the luggage and loaded into our abrasion machine, which rubs the fabric over an abrasive material 15,000 times before being graded for signs of wear. A GH analyst is seen here setting up abrasion resistance testing.

✔️ Packing capabilities: Our analysts pack each piece of luggage using a standard load with real items like clothing, shoes, toiletries and more. In this process, we rate the ease of opening and closing the zippers, ease of accessing the compartments and how much of our load actually fits inside.

✔️ Comfort: When the bag is fully packed, we carry it to rate the comfort of the handles and straps. GH analysts also test each bag's features like convertible backpack straps as seen here to rate the ease of use and comfort.

✔️ Consumer testing: Testers use each duffel on vacations and trips to give feedback on the comfort of the straps and handles, ease of packing and more. Testers have brought these duffels on road trips, cruises, international flights and more!

What to look for when shopping for the best duffel bag

✔️ Material: Most duffels are made with either nylon or polyester. Nylon is a very popular synthetic fiber for softside luggage as it's durable and can withstand abrasion. Polyester is a more affordable synthetic option that's lighter in weight than nylon but is generally slightly less durable.

✔️ Denier: Oftentimes, the denier of the fabric may be listed, which is a unit of measurement used to determine the fiber thickness of individual threads or filaments used in the fabric. The higher the denier, the stronger the fabric tends to be.

✔️ Wheels: If you struggle carrying heavy loads, opt for a duffel with wheels. Because of the bulky wheels, rolled duffels cannot be as easily stored as ones without wheels.

✔️ Capacity: When shopping for a duffel, look for the capacity of the bag, which is usually listed in liters. The larger the capacity, the bigger the bag. Compare the dimensions to the airline restrictions for personal items and carry-ons to ensure a smooth boarding experience. Around 30 L is great for weekend trips while 50-70 L is better suited for a week-long trip.

✔️ Carrying options: Some duffels feature convertible options, so you can carry it with a crossbody strap or wear it as a backpack. Many testers especially appreciated the backpack carrying option!

✔️ Pockets and organization: Most duffels feature one main top zipper with a large internal compartment for packing. Testers especially liked when duffels had a separate zippered compartment for shoes and an easily accessible front pocket for must-have travel items.

Should I use a duffel as a carry-on or a personal item when flying?

Duffels can make a great personal item or carry-on when flying. However, it's important to note the duffel's dimensions to ensure that it complies with the airline's listed size restrictions. If you plan on using a duffel as a personal item, we recommend ensuring that it has a back luggage strap and pairing it with a rolling suitcase for easy toting in the airport. Because duffels feature fabric on all sides, they can be squished more easily in overhead bins and underneath the seat in front of you — this also makes duffels super popular for road trips too!

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

Emma Seymour is a senior textiles product analyst in the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab. She’s been at Good Housekeeping for over three years, testing all types of travel products including suitcases, packing cubes and backpacks. She tested a variety of duffels for this story in Lab. She has a degree in Fiber Science and Apparel Design from Cornell University.

Emma Seymour (she/her) is a senior product analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she has led testing for luggage, pillows, towels, tampons and more since 2018. She graduated from Cornell University with a bachelor of science in fiber science and apparel design and a minor in gerontology, completing research in the Body Scanner Lab on optimizing activewear for athletic performance. 

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The Best Duffel Bags of 2024

For casual international jaunts or full-blown assaults on Denali, you'll need a solid duffel to safely transport your precious cargo. Here are the best duffel bags for any trip on your bucket list.

They’re at the start of every expedition documentary. Explorers in a conga line, chucking bulging bags loaded with ropes, food, and tents into the back of a seaplane or weathered Land Rover. You see them piled on docks, in airports, or swaying back and forth on pack mules as they wind their way to basecamp — duffel bags are the storage backbone of any long adventure.

Any duffel bag worth its salt needs to meet certain metrics. They must be sturdy enough to protect and transport hefty loads of technical gear, yet light enough to merit use on an expedition. They should exhibit thoughtful organizational features, and have to be packed and unpacked with ease.

Senior Editor Chris Carter took over 25 of the finest duffel bags money can buy, and pitted them against each other for over six months on dusty overland trips in Africa, climbing expeditions through Mexico, and weekend cabin getaways, to bring you the crème de la crème of these brawny bags. He tested each duffel with a mind for a variety of different performance metrics, including durability, ease of transport, organizational features, and weather resistance.

A seasoned globe trotter, Chris has been hopping around the world from a young age. His parents worked with an NGO in East Africa, and travel was — and still is — a way of life. He’s been zipping up duffels, carry-ons, and all manner of luggage and schlepping them through international airports for just about as long as he can remember. He knows what makes a duffel bag worth its mettle, and allows only the best into this guide.

Check out our top picks below, and be sure to browse our comprehensive buyer’s guide at the end for help in choosing the perfect duffel. Use our comparison chart for a quick overview, or have your burning questions hashed out in the FAQ .

Editor’s Note: We refreshed this article on March 27, 2024, by adding the NEMO Double Haul 70L Convertible Duffel & Tote and adding new details about the 2024 update received by our Overall Best pick, the Patagonia Black Hole 70L .

• Best Overall Duffel Bag: Patagonia Black Hole Duffel 70L
• Best Budget Duffel Bag: Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler 60L
• Best Expedition Duffel Bag: Black Diamond StoneHauler 120L
• Best Duffel Bag for Casual Use: Peak Design Travel Duffel 35L
• Best Ultralight Duffel Bag: Matador FreeFly 30L
• Best Rolling Duffel Bag: The North Face Voyager 40L
• Best Waterproof Duffel Bag: YETI Panga 75L

Patagonia Black Hole 70L

• Weight 3 lbs.
• Volume Options 40, 55, 70, & 100 L
• Face Fabric 14.1-oz 900-denier 100% recycled polyester ripstop & recycled TPU-film laminate
• Straps Removable backpack straps, top carry handles, 2 side handles

• Versatile, stylish design
• Durable yet lightweight
• Comfortable carry system
• Flimsy material doesn’t stay open when packing
• No zippered pockets at either end
• We kinda miss the old look

When we think of duffel bags — this is what comes to mind. The Patagonia Black Hole ($199) has become almost synonymous with long road trips, climbing excursions in the desert, and well … adventure. But, does it live up to the hype?

After extensively testing the 55 and 70L models over many years, we feel that the 70L Black Hole is just about the perfect duffel for any travel scenario you could cook up. Rugged enough for brutal adventures, with a sleek and stylish finish for around town, its versatility is truly where it shines.

2024 saw a nice new update to the Black Hole. Taking a leap towards greater sustainability, the bag is now made with a 100% recycled body fabric, lining, and webbing — and has a new recycled TPU film laminate with a subtle matte finish. Aside from its appearance, the design and function of the duffel remain essentially the same, though it is a tad lighter. We do miss that classic shiny silhouette a bit, but the environmentally friendly shift makes up for it.

Stellar carrying comfort is one of our litmus tests of a solid duffel, and the Black Hole scores big in this department. Toting it through the airport, or schlepping it to the base of a remote crag, the cozy ergonomic shoulder straps and simple top haul handle design make this a breeze. The straps quickly deploy or detach from the bag entirely. We feel that this system hugs our body and carries better over the long run than others we tested, and we like the snap coupling on the haul handles.

One of our favorite touches? An outside zippered pocket that can be accessed from the inside or outside of the bag. We didn’t expect to love it as much as we do — but dang, we use it a lot. This pocket also doubles as its stuff sack. A mesh interior lid pocket stashes small items, and the huge U-shaped opening for the main compartment is by far our top pick for zipper configurations on duffels. Internal compression straps help snug down the load.

Despite its burly 900-denier ripstop face fabric, with a shiny weather-resistant TPU laminate coating, the 70 L clocks in at just over a respectable 3 pounds, and packs down small. For fast and light missions, it doesn’t add much to your overall base weight.

A lightly padded bottom protects gear from rocky terrain, and reinforced daisy chains won’t pop off when lashed to roof racks or mule backs. However, we do feel the vertical daisy chain configuration is limiting in some cases.

If we had to knock the Black Hole at all (which is hard), it would be its comparatively flimsy material. It doesn’t hold its shape well when packing it up. Other duffels, such as The North Face Base Camp below, have super rigid side walls that stay open even when empty, whereas the Black Hole easily folds over on itself unless held open. We also find ourselves wishing for zippered pockets at either end of the bag on occasion.

Backpack through Europe, dirtbag it up in the desert, or visit grandma for Thanksgiving with about as much storage comfort and style as you could ask for. The Black Hole 70L is the duffel for the job.

Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler 60L

• Weight 2 lbs., 3 oz.
• Volume Options 40, 60, & 90 L
• Face Fabric 1000D Helix Poly & 600D Poly TPU
• Straps Removable backpack straps, 4 side handles

• Great value for the price
• Solid organization features
• Sturdy, weather-resistant construction
• No top carry handles
• Fabric doesn’t hold shape while packing
• Not the highest quality zippers

While Eagle Creek’s Cargo Hauler ($129) isn’t technically the cheapest on this list, we feel that it is absolutely the best bang for your buck of any duffel we reviewed. For under $130, you get similar durability, carrying comfort, and thoughtful organization as the best of the best.

We used this stout little bag much more than we anticipated during our testing period. It was loaded with climbing and camping gear for weekend jaunts, crammed with clothes for holiday getaways, and even packed as our primary piece of luggage for a trip to Morocco, North Africa. This is a great steal.

Ticking several of our favorite duffel bag boxes, it boasts stellar carrying and organizational features, but maintains a competitively light weight at just over 2 pounds. Our favorite U-shaped opening provides access to a generous main compartment, with detachable interior mesh dividers.

For even more organization, there are two zippered pockets on either end — which we think every duffel should have. One of these doubles as the bag’s stuff sack.

Cozy shoulder straps quickly slide out of a zippered pouch in the lid, and hook into loops at the base. The straps also couple together with a buckled wrap to be used as a haul handle. This isn’t our favorite design, as we prefer to have top haul handles be separate from the shoulder straps (like the Black Hole above), but this does shave some weight. Additional handles on the side, top and bottom mean you can grab it from any angle with ease.

The materials used in th is duffel are undeniably robust, without adding too much bulk. A 1,000- and 600-denier poly TPU face fabric guards your gear, which is waterproof with storm flaps, but not seam sealed, so the bag isn’t entirely waterproof.

We have similar gripes as the Black Hole with the loose fabric of the Cargo Hauler, and wish it stayed open better as we load it up. The extra pockets, buckles and straps are all handy, but kind of get in the way when you’re in a hurry.

We’re big fans of this affordable powerhouse, and feel confident recommending it for both casual trips and tough adventures.

Black Diamond StoneHauler 120L

• Weight 3 lbs., 13 oz.
• Volume Options 45, 60, 90, & 120 L
• Face Fabric 600D & 1500D SuperGrid ripstop & 1640D polyester

• Extremely durable materials
• Bomber tubular webbing loop around entire bag
• Foam-reinforced fabric in high-use areas
• Non-laminated fabric absorbs water faster than TPU-coated duffels
• Backpack straps aren’t the most comfortable

If you ever have to carry a duffel into battle, this is the one you want. With a bomb-proof blend of 600-, 1,500-, and 1,640-denier fabric, burly haul-loop carry system, and reinforced end caps, this blurs the line between duffel and big wall haul bag. If it wasn’t for its specialized, beefed-up design, this would probably be our top pick. It’s just so good.

We jammed the StoneHauler 120L ($230) full of spiky cams and chunky ropes on climbing expeditions in Mexico, strapped it to Land Cruisers on the muddy backroads of Kenya, and lived out of it during road trips through Appalachia. It swiftly became our favorite duffel for taxing adventures where top-notch gear protection and rugged durability are paramount.

This beast of a bag is advertised for far-flung missions to extreme environments, and it has the design to back it. The ripstop SuperGrid body material sandwiches padding on the bottom, top, and side panels for stronger durability and structure, and the end caps are reinforced with 1640-denier polyester to fight abrasion. Chunky #10 YKK reversed coil zippers on a huge U-shaped lid inspire some of the most faith in any closure system we tested.

The Haul-loop carry design, a continuous thick tubular webbing loop that wraps entirely around the duffel, is a unique adventure-specific innovation on this bag. From any angle, there’s a loop to strap something to.

Black Diamond puts its lash loops through the same load tests as their carabiners and cams, rating each one to a hefty 2kN. Strap it to a mule or drag it up a cliff by the daisy chain — those things aren’t popping off.

The organizational design is basic and streamlined, with two internal mesh pockets on the lid, and a large zippered pocket on both end caps. Internal compression straps help manage bulky loads, and removable backpack straps quickly attach to the top of the bag, and clip into the side for prolonged carry.

When our 120L model is fully loaded, however, we definitely wish for wider shoulder straps with more foam. You don’t want to be carrying it for too long.

For burly expeditions to remote corners of the world, count on the StoneHauler to get you there with about as much storage confidence as you could ask for.

Peak Design Travel Duffel 35L

• Weight 2 lbs.
• Volume Options 35 & 65 L
• Face Fabric 100% recycled 600D nylon canvas & 900D waterproof base
• Straps Single shoulder strap, top carry handles (can be backpack straps), 2 side handles

• Sleek, stylish look
• Thoughtful design
• Comfortable, versatile carrying options
• Cord hooks difficult to pull out of strap loops
• Not the best for long adventures in rough conditions

Can a duffel bag be called a piece of fine art? Well, we’re dubbing Peak Design’s Travel Duffel ($140) a masterpiece. The level of craftsmanship and thoughtful engineering put into this bag nudges it head and shoulders above any other casual travel duffel we’ve carried.

Technical specs aside, just the look of it inspires admiration. Subtle leather accents and anodized aluminum clasps complement a textured, canvas body with poly-coated zippered pockets to deliver a retro, utilitarian vibe. This is a beautiful bag.

We found the carry-on sized 35L version to be perfect for short flights, weekend trips to visit friends, or video projects on the road. One of the many brilliant touches in most Peak Design products is their seamless compatibility with their packing and camera cubes (sold separately). We loved clipping the small or medium camera cubes into our Travel Duffel, and hauling our sensitive film gear across the country with confidence.

For such a small bag, the modularity it boasts is shocking. It can be carted by hand with two carry handles, or slung over your shoulder with a single shoulder strap. Each strap can be configured in a number of different ways by clipping the cord hooks into any two of the 12 loops located all around the bag.

The hand carry was the most natural configuration for us, but the webbing of these handles is long enough to be clipped such that you can wear it as a backpack — though not super comfortably if the bag is fully loaded. This is a great design, but the cord hooks inspire a bit too much confidence. We feel like we are going to rip the loops off the bag every time we adjust the strap position.

Durable fabric and padding on the bottom and sides boost gear protection, and internal rods provide some structure as you pack the bag. The center zip opening isn’t our favorite design but works well with the way this duffel is laid out, and the bars hold the bag from folding in as it’s loaded up. A grand total of four low-profile external zippered pockets, and two internal mesh pockets round out this duffel’s stellar organization options.

Peak Design’s Travel Duffel isn’t the best choice for rugged expeditions to the backcountry, but for frontcountry style and functional storage on the road, it’s hard to beat this sleek, charming bag.

Matador Freefly 30L

• Weight 8.5 oz.
• Volume Options 30 L
• Face Fabric 70D Robic nylon UHMWPE ripstop, with PU waterproofing & 50D mini ripstop nylon
• Straps Top carry handles, front and back grab handles, single shoulder strap that splits into backpack straps

• Extremely packable
• Waterproof materials (not submersible)
• Lower durability than other duffels
• Thin, basic carry straps aren’t the most comfortable

A duffel bag that fits in the palm of your hand? We were skeptical as well. But give Matador’s Freefly 30L Packable Duffel ($85) a chance and you’ll be throwing it in your suitcase for every long trip.

We struggled to imagine which scenarios we would use this for when ordering it for testing. But, after packing it as our personal item for multiple flights, and as a secondary bag for day trips on a multitude of extended adventures, we’ve given it more love than we ever would have expected.

First things first — the packed size. Though it boasts a variety of extras you see on fully-featured travel duffels, like multiple external zippered pockets, compression straps, top, and side carry handles, and a shoulder strap that splits into backpack straps, it barely registers on the scale at 8.5 ounces and crams down to about the size of a softball.

It is a bit hard to get it into the mesh stuff sack at first, but we figured out the trick after a few tries. One of the side pockets also doubles as a stuff sack.

We didn’t expect our lightest duffel to also be one of our most waterproof, but aside from YETI’s Panga, this thwarted moisture more than most. Fully taped seams, sealed YKK zippers, and PU-coated 70-denier ripstop nylon combine forces to form an essentially waterproof vessel (though it’s not intended for submersion).

So, what’s the rub? With 50- and 70-denier fabric, this also registers as our least durable model, and the low weight means no padding and thin webbing on the straps. This won’t hold up to the same torture as the mighty StoneHauler above, or carry as comfortably, but at this weight and size, it is hard to quibble about its flimsy nature.

We love the Freefly for quick day trips to swimming holes in the summer, as a carry-on while flying, or as a backup duffel to throw into larger luggage. Its tiny pack size makes this great for setting out on side quests in the midst of long road trips or international excursions.

With a spec’ed-out design at an approachable price point, we think this is a fantastic little duffel to snag for those just-in-case moments during your travels, or as a standalone pack for ultralight missions on the road.

The North Face Base Camp Voyager Roller Duffel 21”

• Weight 6 lbs., 13 oz.
• Volume Options 40 & 94 L
• Face Fabric 840D recycled ballistic nylon with DWR finish
• Straps Three side carry handles, telescoping top handle

• Durable, weather-resistant fabric
• Sturdy wheels and chassis
• Carry-on compatible
• Pricey compared to duffels of similar volume
• Wheeled duffels aren’t as versatile

As duffel bags explode in the travel scene, many manufacturers have realized the value of crossing the convenience of a duffel, with the ease of standard wheeled suitcases. While they don’t work for every travel scenario, wheeled duffels like the Base Camp Voyager ($240) can alleviate a lot of stress on your body, and carry heavy loads much better.

We narrowed in on the 21-inch Base Camp Voyager as our top pick for this category. Its durable design, water-resistant materials, and carry-on compatible size make it a prime duffel for domestic and international adventures alike. The large rugged wheels and sturdy chassis accommodate tougher terrain than other rolling bags, and we feel comfortable lugging it over dirt roads and uneven ground while traveling overseas.

Constructed with the same 840-denier ballistic DWR nylon as their wildly popular regular Base Camp Duffel , this wheeled iteration provides greater structure and overall gear protection than its traditional cousin. While we wouldn’t recommend using it for the same sort of expeditions, the wheeled version does have reinforced lash points on three sides of the duffel, so could be strapped to a roof rack or motorcycle if need be.

The design is minimal but functional, without the bells and whistles of common rolling suitcases. You won’t get the same level of organization, but an internal mesh zippered pocket, a top external zippered pouch for small essentials, and a laptop sleeve on the outside of the lid give you enough to get by.

The Base Camp Voyager epitomizes the outdoor travel aesthetic in a bomb-proof, adventure-ready design. It runs a bit on the pricey side and is significantly heavier than regular duffels, but the durability, weather protection, and ease of transport you get with this bag make it a worthy investment.

YETI Panga 75L

• Weight 6 lbs., 1.6 oz.
• Volume Options 50, 75, & 100 L
• Face Fabric EVA molded bottom & ThickSkin waterproof nylon shell

• Fully waterproof
• Extremely durable material
• Simple, easily attachable backpack straps
• Minimal feature set

For most of your travel needs, a bomb-proof, fully submersible, waterproof travel duffel isn’t on the shortlist. But some adventures — like snowy winter expeditions, multi-day rafting trips, or tours through wet climates — may require such a burly bag.

If wet climates or river trips are in your future, YETI’s Panga 75L ($350) stands out as one of the best waterproof duffels on the market. Tipping the scales at over 6 pounds, it is undeniably a chunker but kept our sensitive gear bone dry on long paddling trips and torrential downpours around camp. For such peace of mind, the high price tag and hefty weight make it worth the cost.

A fully submersible zippered bag? These are rare finds. YETI’s unique Hydrolok zipper is entirely waterproof, and features a rubber “U-dock” at the end, which ensures a completely airtight seal. The zipper takes a bit of a yank to open, but is consequently incredibly sturdy and durable. The bag actually boasts an IPX7 waterproof rating, which means its contents will stay dry for roughly 30 minutes at a depth of 1 meter.

An EVA molded bottom provides a tough landing pad, and the welded TPU panels with ThickSkin waterproof nylon serve as an impenetrable barrier against moisture. To reduce the amount of stitching that needs to be reinforced, the bag is quite minimally featured, with one big main compartment and two small internal zippered mesh pockets. Simple, vertically oriented daisy chains on the sides provide adequate lashing options to boat decks or pulk sleds.

Two handles on either end of the Panga allow you to hoist it around from different angles, and removable shoulder straps quickly clip onto the bag with sturdy aluminum clasps. These are minimally padded, so beware when hauling seriously heavy loads. The straps can also be used as top carry handles.

While this isn’t the best duffel to pick up for everyday casual use, if long days on the river or cold, wet winter trips are on the docket, this would be a great companion. 

Osprey Transporter 95L

• Weight 3 lbs., 6.4 oz.
• Volume Options 40, 65, 95, & 120 L
• Face Fabric 900D & 600D TPU-coated DWR recycled polyester
• Straps Stowable backpack straps, 4 side handles

• Uber comfortable backpack carry straps
• Durable, quality materials
• Minimal extra pockets
• Not many lashing points

Widely considered one of the most comfortable duffel bags to carry long distances, Osprey’s Transporter ($200) is a popular, durable shoo-in for this guide. Osprey is perhaps best known for its cushy backpacking backpacks that are ubiquitous on trails around the world — and the Transporter reflects that.

A full yoke backpack harness that deploys from a pouch in the lid, with a vertically adjustable sternum strap, and plush ventilated shoulder straps lend credence to Osprey’s reputation for a comfortable carry over the long haul. Of all the duffels we tested, this wore us down the least while carting it like a backpack through a village, or waiting in line for hours at passport control.

We took the 95L model on demanding overland missions in Africa, rainy road trips through Appalachia, and international climbing excursions to test its durability, weather resistance, and carrying comfort. This was a definite contender for our top pick, but a few design choices of other duffels bumped them just ahead.

The bag carries incredibly well, but we wish there were top carry handles in addition to the backpack straps, similar to Patagonia’s Black Hole design. Having the lid hinge from the top of the bag, instead of the side, isn’t our favorite layout either, as it makes the lid narrow and flimsy which can be a frustration while packing.

These are small nitpicks for an otherwise brilliantly designed, tough-as-nails bag. The 900-denier polyester shell with a smooth TPU coating is a formidable barrier between your gear and the elements and stood up to some serious torture during our testing period.

Massive padded haul handles on each side of the bag are some of the largest we’ve seen, and a few sturdy lash points allow you to strap it down with confidence. We wish there was a longer daisy chain for a more even tie-down, but we made do just fine.

A single large internal mesh pocket and an external zippered pocket on one side constitute its simple organizational features. Still, we quite enjoyed the stripped-down, sleek feel of the bag while charging around bustling markets overseas or navigating busy airports. This is a stylish but effective duffel.

For travelers who can’t quite decide between a traditional backpack and a duffel bag, the Transporter would be the perfect crossover piece for stellar storage, and world-class comfort on long trips.

REI Co-op Roadtripper 100L

• Weight 1 lb., 6 oz.
• Volume Options 40, 60, 100, & 140 L
• Face Fabric Recycled polyester
• Straps Single shoulder strap, top carry handles, 2 side handles

• Simple, sleek design
• Lightweight and packable
• Simple straps are uncomfortable during long carries
• Fabric isn’t as durable or water-resistant as other models

While most of the models on this list offer complicated handle layouts, bleeding-edge fabric technology, and pockets galore, REI’s Roadtripper ($65) harkens back to the duffel bag’s roots. What you get with this bag — a simple polyester tube with a few straps — may be just the minimalist, retro design you’re after.

If you seek something quick and easy to get the job done, you’ve found it. But don’t let the basic structure and rudimentary design of the Roadtripper fool you. This duffel holds its own on demanding trips when you need it to, then packs down to almost nothing when you’re ready to stow it.

We particularly appreciated it on a recent extended climbing trip, where it housed our random excess gear and camping equipment that didn’t necessarily need top-notch protection from the elements. Its lightweight design meant we could easily pack it away in our larger luggage when we didn’t have a use for it anymore.

Its recycled polyester shell fabric doesn’t have the same weatherproof durability as other fancy TPU-coated duffels, but it is still abrasion-resistant and somewhat water-resistant — and boasts greater sustainability than many in this list.

We do like the strap layout of this bag, but the lack of padding and backpack straps makes it less than optimal for long carries. With two haul handles on the top and bottom, two top carry handles that Velcro together, and a single shoulder strap, you can easily grab the bag from any angle. Simple, vertical daisy chains allow you to strap it to vehicles if the need arises.

While this wouldn’t be our top pick for technical assaults on alpine peaks, the Roadtripper 100L delivers surprisingly solid performance considering its simple, compressible profile. This is a great bag for impromptu road trips, or as additional lightweight storage on gear-intensive journeys. And at $65, it’s a darn good steal.

NEMO Double Haul 70L Convertible Duffel & Tote

• Volume Options 70 L
• Face Fabric Bluesign-approved 420D recycled nylon
• Straps Padded backpack straps, top carrying handles, deployable tote handles

• Versatile design for long trips or use around town
• Large opening
• Extra pockets for organization
• A bit floppy when first loading it up

NEMO rang in the new year with a bang — unveiling a lineup of new innovative products, including its modular and beautifully designed Double Haul Duffel & Tote ($200). This has one of the more interesting layouts of the duffel bags we’ve tested (and we’ve looked at just about everything). We feel like we still discover new features and ways to pack it each time we load it up.

With a versatile design and a slew of straps, cinches, and pouches, this could be the perfect tote/duffel combo for the constantly moving globetrotter. It serves as a streamlined bag for long road trips or air travel but quickly converts to a wide-open tote with extra capacity and a stylish aesthetic for bopping around town. That’s something not a lot of other duffels can boast.

We appreciate the massive opening that easily swallows gear and the fact that the “tote” configuration of the bag affords even more storage. When the bag is empty the larger volume options tend to fold in easily until you get a few pieces of gear on the bottom, but in general, this is a super easy duffel to load up.

Two padded backpack straps are on the side of the bag but can be easily cinched out of the way when you wish to simply carry it as a tote. Tote bag handles deploy from either side of the opening — making this transition extremely easy. Side-release buckles also help the bag fold down into more of a duffel shape when needed. Internal and external mesh pockets help with organization.

For the seasoned traveler looking for a stellar duffel/tote hybrid for long trips, the Double Haul would be hard to beat.

The North Face Base Camp Medium

• Weight 3 lbs., 9.1 oz.
• Volume Options 31, 50, 71, 95, 132, & 150 L
• Face Fabric 1000D polyester with PVC coating & 840D DWR ballistic nylon

• Durable, time-tested design
• Zipper can be difficult to open and close
• On the heavier side

This iconic duffel has developed something of a cult following during its 40+ years of service to the outdoor community. The Base Camp Duffel ($149) has become the poster child of remote alpine expeditions and wild forays to the far-flung places of the world — but does it hold up to the competition today?

Pop into the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, and you’re likely to still see a procession of these bright yellow sacks parade in front of you on the luggage carousel as climbers arrive. The Base Camp’s layout has remained quite similar during its history across four decades, and this timeless, trustworthy design is largely what keeps explorers hooked on it.

So why isn’t it our top pick? With so many quality bags out there, the decision was admittedly difficult. But in the end, a few key design decisions bumped other duffels a smidge above the Basecamp in our opinion.

This bag sports our favorite strap and main opening configurations: two top carry handles, two side haul handles on the top and bottom, and removable padded backpack straps with a large U-shaped lid. For us, this is hands down the most comfortable, versatile setup for packing, grabbing, and transporting a duffel with ease. Compression straps on the side allow for a tight, manageable package.

Drumming up any qualms for this duffel is hard, but our main frustration has to do with the zipper. It is quite stiff, and is difficult for us to close quickly and smoothly (at least on the medium size). It also clocks in a tad heavier than other models of similar volume, but the durability you get makes up for it.

The 1,000- and 840-denier polyester and ballistic nylon combo with PVC and DWR coatings is about as bomber and weatherproof as it gets, and horizontal daisy chains allow for an even tie-down. Drag it through thorny underbrush, strap it to a yak, or throw it into the dusty bed of a truck — your gear will stay protected.

This legacy bag has helped countless mountaineers and adventurers achieve their dreams in wild environments, and remains a solid choice today despite fierce competition. For whatever mission you can conjure up, the Base Camp Duffel will tackle the job.

Cotopaxi Allpa 50L

• Weight 2 lb., 10 oz.
• Volume Options 50 & 70 L
• Face Fabric 840D ballistic nylon & TPU coated 1000D polyester

• Stylish design with lots of fun color schemes
• Durable materials
• Fantastic organization
• Backpack straps attachment design isn’t our favorite
• No internal compression straps

Style meets function with this nifty little duffel, and we keep discovering things we love about it each time we pack it up for an adventure. The Allpa 50L ($140) was a strong contender for our best casual use duffel award, but its beefed-up fabric and outdoor-oriented design make it a bit more of a niche bag than Peak Design’s Travel Duffel. 

This has one of the more clever solutions for dirty laundry we’ve seen on a duffel, which is a constant conundrum for our author on long trips. As filthy clothes amass mid-trip, a dedicated discrete zippered pocket underneath the main compartment swallows them up, and a gusseted pouch slowly expands into the main storage as dirty gear replaces clean. Pretty smart. 

Our favored layout for carrying comfort is featured here: top carry straps coupled together with a Velcro handle, cozy removable backpack straps, and haul handles on the top and bottom. The backpack straps attach to the bag by feeding the webbing through buckles, which takes some time and isn’t our favorite design choice. 

There are pockets galore on this bag , and we never have trouble keeping our gear organized. In addition to the dirty laundry compartment in the base, a zippered mesh pouch on the lid, large external zippered pockets on one end and one side, and two Velcro pouches on either side provide more storage than most. The Velcro pouches also conveniently stow the top carry handles for a more streamlined feel.

Cotopaxi is known for its wild color schemes and fun, funky designs — which translates beautifully with this bag. Muted and flashy color schemes abound for whatever your vibe might be.

While the Allpa looks great around bustling towns or quaint remote villages, it’s built like a workhorse and won’t shy away from an adventure. Hefty TPU-coated 1,000- and 840-denier polyester and ballistic nylon protect your gear, and can hold up to some serious abuse on outdoor missions. Reinforced horizontal daisy chains round out its rugged aesthetic.

This is without a doubt one of the better duffels for gear organization on long trips, and we love its style and functionality. For overseas jaunts to distant European cities, or technical adventures through unpredictable terrain, the Allpa holds its own through it all.

Gregory Alpaca 60L

• Weight 3 lbs., 6 oz.
• Volume Options 40, 60, 80, & 100 L
• Face Fabric 900D polyester polyester ripstop with TPU coating

• Durable design
• Expedition-oriented features
• Packing cube included
• Easier to remove backpack straps than previous iteration
• Update removes external compression straps

This unassuming, simple duffel is understandably one of the more popular models for tough adventures in unpredictable climates. A number of our author’s mountaineering friends recommended the Gregory Alpaca ($160) for this guide, as it delivers no-frills, reliable durability, and weather resistance for high-altitude alpine excursions or burly winter expeditions.

While we weren’t able to test it in the most extreme conditions, we found it to be a sturdy, functional duffel on our tamer travel tests. It follows a similar strap configuration as our favorite Patagonia Black Hole and has a much better daisy chain design, with reinforced loops that run horizontally along the bag’s length. Unfortunately, there are no external or internal compression straps.

The 900-denier ripstop fabric with a TPU coating shrugs off any torture you send its way, and holds up to significant exposure to rain or snow. The massive U-shaped lid has two mesh pockets with two mesh zippered pockets in the lid. The Alpaca’s storage pouch doubles as a sleek, see-through packing cube.

One side of the duffel has a large zippered pocket, but we wish there was one on both ends. The end pocket is expandable, easily accommodating dirty gear as they accrue mid-trip. The removable straps are quite comfortable and thankfully are now much easier to remove than the previous iteration.

The Alpaca delivers just what you need and nothing more. We find we gravitate to this streamlined reliable model for long international forays and local road trips alike, and truly appreciate its simple functionality.

Rab Expedition II Kitbag 120L

• Weight 2 lbs., 9 oz.
• Volume Options 30, 50, 80, & 120 L
• Face Fabric 600D polyester with TPU film

• Comfortable carrying options
• Functional adventure-ready design
• Not as durable as other expedition duffels
• Minimal extra zippered pockets

This bag was made for one thing — carrying tons of gear to far-off lands — and we’d say it does that pretty darn well. The burly Expedition II Kitbag ($155) was on the shortlist for our best expedition duffel award, but we feel that the StoneHauler ekes in just above it in some key areas. 

Regardless, this incredibly durable and reliable bag delivers expedition-ready quality at a surprisingly affordable price point. Its tough shell fabric, thoughtful features, and top-shelf carrying comfort make it a phenomenal choice for any adventure you could cook up. 

The 600-denier TPU-coated polyester shell with a reinforced base provides great weather resistance and durability, but is a bit thinner than other battle-ready duffels on our list, and showed more signs of wear after similar tests. This does help cut down on weight though, particularly with the massive 120L version. 

Top carry handles, two side haul handles on the top and bottom, and removable thickly-padded backpack straps decorate the Kitbag, but the main opening isn’t our favorite, especially with larger volumes. Though it is a U-shaped lid, it hinges from the top instead of the sides, making it thin and flimsy — a frustration while packing or trying to grab something from the mesh pockets in the lid. Aside from these pockets in the lid, the only other pockets are two internal mesh pouches.

The backpack straps are some of the more comfy ones we tested, with thick breathable mesh and daisy chains that run the strap’s length. They aren’t the quickest to attach to the bag, but the adjustability they offer is nice. Swiveling clips on the bottom of the straps ensure they don’t get twisted while pulling it on and off. This is actually a super helpful touch.

All in all, this rugged duffel is a great option for demanding adventures on a budget. The $155 price tag makes this an approachable piece of high-tech expedition gear that won’t let you down in extreme conditions.

Mountain Hardwear Camp 4 95L

• Weight 2 lbs., 9.5 oz.
• Volume Options 45, 65, 95, & 135 L
• Face Fabric 420D carbonate-coated ripstop nylon
• Straps Removable backpack straps, 2 side handles, single 25 mm webbing shoulder strap

• Sleek, haul bag inspired design
• Comfortable backpack straps
• Lightweight
• Effective dirty laundry system
• Minimal lashing points
• Few additional pockets
• Lower durability materials

The Camp 4 Duffel ($160) from Mountain Hardwear is another staple in the outdoor community, and has accompanied many an adventurer to exotic locales. Its newest iteration offers a unique flair to the classic duffel design, with a haul bag-inspired layout and simple, rugged aesthetic.

While we like several elements of this update, we wish they had retained some key features of previous models — namely the lid and daisy chain setup. The large U-shaped opening of old has been replaced with a single center zipper. This shaves some weight and simplifies the opening, but we just can’t get over the ease of accessing tons of gear at once that the old lid offered.

Additionally, while previous Camp 4s had nice horizontal daisy chains running the entire length of the bag, this update eliminates lash loops entirely, leaving only the haul handles and shoulder straps as tie-down options for transport. Internal compression straps are a huge bonus though, and help keep everything cinched up tight.

Those gripes aside, this bag still deserves a spot on our round-up for its time-tested durability and thoughtful features. 420-denier carbonate-coated ripstop nylon is used on the face fabric, which keeps this light and packable, but ready to handle some brutality. 

This wouldn’t be suited for the same level of abuse as other bags like the StoneHauler, though, and it is better used on more casual adventures where keeping weight down is of chief importance.

Aside from a large external zippered pocket on one end, the organization of this bag is quite minimal. One extremely useful touch is an internal cinch-closure pocket for dirty clothes or muggy boots. This easily tucks out of the way when everything is clean, and slowly expands with dirty laundry as your trip progresses. 

Another unique feature of this bag is the internal grab handles that allow you to easily move the duffel around without zipping it up. We can’t say we’ve seen this on any other duffel and found ourselves using it way more than we thought we would. 

We were quite attached to our previous Camp 4 model, so the overhaul in this new iteration has taken some getting used to. But, we still feel it is objectively one of the better duffels on the market from an extremely reputable brand. We don’t have any qualms about bringing it on rigorous romps in the mountains, or international outings alike.  

Sea to Summit Duffel Bag 90L

• Weight 4 lbs., 8 oz.
• Volume Options 45, 65, 90, & 130 L
• Face Fabric 1000D nylon with waterproof tarpaulin laminate

• Impenetrable fabric
• Modular strap configurations
• Minimal organizational features

If simple durability with a few unique flairs is your cup of tea, this is the duffel for you. Despite having one of the most rudimentary organizational designs of any bag on this list — one large main pocket with a single additional internal pocket — Sea to Summit’s 90L Duffel Bag ($200) came on way more technical trips than we expected during our testing period. 

Outdoor-oriented specs like reinforced lash points, impenetrable 1,000-denier nylon with waterproof tarpaulin laminate, compression straps, and a multitude of carry options make this a battle-ready model for the toughest of trips.

We immediately appreciated how stiff the fabric is on the first outing we took this on, as it stands up even while empty, making packing it up a breeze. You do pay for this a bit with a 4.5-pound reading on the scale, however. 

Though this doesn’t have center carry handles, thick haul handles on each side of the bag and modular backpack straps give you solid carrying options. These multifunction straps quickly clip onto the bag and can be configured in three different ways: hand grip, backpack, or single shoulder strap mode. 

Magnets in the straps snap together and hold them in the hand grip position, though we wish they were a bit stronger, as they come apart easily. 

The cons of this bag lie in its lack of extra pockets, which is a bit of a drawback for us on serious expeditions. With only one extra internal mesh pouch, you are essentially limited to the large main compartment for storage. 

While it’s not our top pick for stellar organization, if you need a bag that will get the job done without the bells and whistles of more complicated bags, this would be a great option. It has a minimalist layout, but proved to be a hardworking technical duffel for long arduous adventures.

Duffel Bags Comparison Chart

How We Tested Duffel Bags

Author and Senior Editor Chris Carter led the charge with this guide, whittling the selection down to the 16 deserving duffels you see today. He tested over 25 duffel bags’ durability, weather resistance, and overall useability over a 6-month testing period on remote climbing expeditions in Mexico, international overland adventures in Africa, and long road trips around the States. Each model was put through the wringer over thousands of miles of real-world travel tests in a variety of different climates and environments. Rest assured, only the best ended up on this guide.

If Chris isn’t navigating international airports or security checkpoints, he can usually be found traveling the U.S. and scheming his next road trip. In short — he’s practically always on the go. He knows the importance of a reliable piece of luggage on any excursion, and won’t cram his travel belongings in any ol’ vessel.

We know everyone’s travel plans differ, and no two trips are alike. We selected a broad array of duffel designs for each traveler’s budget, style, and adventure needs. Slung over our shoulders, strapped to roof racks on wild backroads, or thrown into the belly of planes, these bags were put through their paces and all performed with flying colors.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Duffel Bag

What Is a Duffel Bag?

The line between travel backpacks , standard suitcases, and duffel bags can often be blurred. So what are these rugged malleable sacks, and what makes them special? The origin of the duffel bag is somewhat disputed, but most trace it to the actual town of Duffel in Belgium, where they employed “duffel cloth” to make thick, cylindrical bags with zippered or drawstring closures on top. The burly material was also used as a covering for ships.

Used widely by the military in WWI and WWII, the durable, flexible nature of these souped-up knapsacks made them perfect for chucking haphazardly into the back of transport vehicles or bunkers. They were more durable and voluminous than backpacks, and easier to carry than a solid crate. But they weren’t very comfortable to tote around.

News of these nifty packs seeped into the public, and the design evolved. Longer, wider bags with various sturdy straps for throwing over the shoulder or lashing to animals emerged. The likes of arctic explorers, mountaineers, and international travelers began seeing the value in these versatile wonders, and big-name brands picked up the scent.

From fully waterproof models to technical bags with more pockets and straps than you can count, duffels have come a long way from their humble roots. For weekend getaways to visit the parents or gear-intensive climbing trips, they now offer state-of-the-art storage for wherever the road takes you.

Categories of Duffel Bags

The type of duffel bag you decide to go with depends on your unique travel plans. If you need a general all-around workhorse, something like the simple REI Roadtripper or versatile Patagonia Black Hole would be a solid choice.

If you’re looking for a sleek companion on international flights, The North Face Voyager Roller may be the move, whereas the spec’d-out Black Diamond StoneHauler is catered for dedicated expeditions in rough environments. Duffels can be expensive, so consider what you’ll be primarily using your duffels for before making your final decision.

Expedition Duffel Bags

The last thing you want to worry about on an expedition or long adventure is your precious cargo. Expedition duffels are the more burly, specialized bags of the bunch, and are often decorated with fancy technology and features for specific outdoor pursuits. They are designed to be light enough for fast missions while withstanding abuse from the elements, and must be easily carried, packed, and unloaded — all while protecting important technical gear.

Bags like the Rab Expedition II Kitbag , Black Diamond StoneHauler , and Gregory Alpaca fit this bill. They prioritize durability, weather resistance, and useability, featuring elements like TPU-coated waterproof fabrics, and reinforced lashing points.

Expedition duffels will often be hauled to basecamp on pulk sleds, strapped to the backs of pack mules, or thrown on top of janky overland trucks as they bump along remote dirt tracks. They need to be malleable to fit these various modes of transportation, durable enough to fight abrasion, and fitted with attachment points that are rated to hold heavy loads.

The Black Diamond StoneHauler , for instance, is lined with thick tubular webbing loops that are each rated to 2kN, and sports a bombproof 1,500-denier outer shell. This allows it to be easily affixed to anything and instills confidence that your only tent and cooking kit won’t slide off into a couloir whenever your mule stumbles.

You can expect to find thoughtful additions, like waterproof zippers and storm flaps, unique storage compartments, cushy backpack straps, and compression straps, on expedition duffels. The amount of fancy add-ons makes these bags a bit overkill for a simple weekend getaway, and their durability will often add some significant weight.

Travel/Casual Use Duffel Bags

If you’re scoping out a bag for shorter trips, lugging around the gym, or flying home for Christmas, these are the duffels you want. While not as stalwart as their battle-ready cousins above, these often still boast excellent storage, weather resistance, and carrying capabilities. Travel and casual duffels focus on comfort and useability over rugged durability.

You probably won’t find many adventure-specific features of technical expedition duffels on these, such as DWR-treated fabrics, storm flaps, and stout daisy chains. This means they are generally lighter, easier to handle, and may be more stylish for use around town. We found the biggest difference between casual-use duffels and more outdoor-oriented models to be the denier and durability of the fabric they use.

We narrowed in on the sleek Peak Design Travel Duffel as our top pick for casual use. It is loaded with features that make life on the road a cinch and doesn’t feel nearly as bulky or unwieldy as other models in this roundup.

Many duffels on our list function as solid crossover pieces, and their versatile nature makes them good for casual trips, with enough gumption for demanding adventures. The Patagonia Black Hole and Cotopaxi Allpa fit this description. They’ll look great while tramping between gates in the airport, but boy will they perform when you need them to.

While some designs may be better suited for casual trips, most of the bags on this list would be fine in just about any scenario. You don’t need to be trekking to a far-off base camp to merit the use of Black Diamond’s StoneHauler on your travels.

Waterproof Duffel Bags

Long paddling expeditions, snowy winter excursions, or a family fun day at the lake — these are the bags for the job. Though the selection is sparse, some brands have developed entirely waterproof duffels for trips where keeping your gear dry is paramount. Their higher weight, minimal features, and hefty price tag make them a pretty niche bag, so we wouldn’t recommend snagging one for everyday use.

It’s important to note that most duffel bags, including casual-use models, are already crafted with a high degree of water resistance. Some face fabrics may even be waterproof, but water will still be able to get through the unsealed seams or zippers.

It takes a good deal of prolonged rain to breach the beefy TPU-coated fabric of Gregory’s Alpaca or Osprey’s Transporter . For most of what you’ll encounter on your travels, this will suffice.

But if you really plan on getting wet, models like YETI’s Panga will fend off a downpour, with technical Hyrdolok zippers, minimal stitching, and impenetrable fabric. Waterproof duffels are great for keeping sensitive gear or technology dry on long outdoor trips through wet climates, or anything involving extended time on a boat.

Rolling Duffel Bags

Rolling duffels merge the convenience of a duffel, with the ease of standard wheeled suitcases, and are great for carrying heavy loads over smooth surfaces. These designs caught on quickly, and you will often see wheeled versions of popular models, like the wheeled Patagonia Black Hole or Osprey Transporter .

Rolling duffels are good choices for trips where you won’t be navigating a variety of different environments, as their designs are restricting in many travel scenarios. You’ll rarely see backpack or shoulder straps on rolling duffels, limiting how easy it is to carry them yourself.

If you’re touring around South America and will be shouldering your baggage onto busses, or hiking through small towns to your next hostel, it may be best to go with a traditional duffel. Trust us — trying to roll a wheeled bag down a rocky dirt road is less than optimal.

However, if you’ll be keeping to controlled environments with a lot of pavement and nice walkways, these can alleviate a lot of stress on your body. Many brands also offer rolling duffels that hover around 40 L, making them suitable as carry-ons.

We found the North Face Voyager Roller to be one of our favorite rolling duffels for a diversity of environments and surfaces. Its sturdy wheels and chassis instill confidence over bumpy cobblestone or broken-up sidewalks, and the burly materials and lash points make it somewhat adventure-ready.

Volume Selection

Duffel bag models are frequently available in a variety of volume options, usually on a spectrum of 40 to 120 L. And 40L duffels will often be carry-on compatible, which is perfect for weekend trips where you don’t want to check a bag. At the higher end, 100L or 120L bags are for seriously long trips or gear-intensive expeditions.

The volume you decide to go with will obviously depends on the length and intensity of the trip you plan to bring it on. A 90L model is probably overkill for weekend getaways, and will be uncomfortably floppy with a few changes of clothes and an overnight kit inside.

We’ve seen duffels with volumes of up to 150 L (like the gigantic XXL North Face Base Camp Duffel ), which are great for clunky outdoor gear on long trips like tents, ropes, crampons, or backpacks. It’s easy to bump the weight of these duffels above what is allowed for checked baggage on a plane, so pack with care. Black Diamond’s 120L StoneHauler has been one of our favorite hardworking large-volume duffels for serious missions with technical gear.

Medium-sized duffels in the 50L to 70L range are our favorite versatile volume, as they work for long weekend adventures, or international trips that last for months. Patagonia’s 70L Black Hole and Osprey’s 65L Transporter are some of our top picks in this range. They swallow enough gear to travel comfortably, but aren’t overly bulky and unwieldy.

Smaller duffels can dip as low as 25 L, and can be solid day packs or weekend carry-ons. We love the North Face Base Camp Voyager 40L rolling duffel as a carry-on for short flights, or the stylish Peak Design Travel Duffel 35L for spontaneous overnight trips.

Weight and Packed Size

Most people don’t plan to haul duffel bags on their person for very long like they would a traditional backpack, so weight isn’t a huge concern for many travelers. Sure, you may have to carry your duffel like a backpack from the airport to your hotel across town, but you won’t be trekking up a mountain with it on your back.

You want your gear to be protected by thick, durable materials, with hefty zippers and straps. That said, most duffel bags maintain a relatively low weight and are often surprisingly packable. Many of the duffels on this list come with their own stuff sacks, and cram down to the size of a small throw pillow.

Nothing holds a candle to the packed size of Matador’s Freefly 30L duffel though, which fits in the palm of your hand when shoved into its tiny stuff sack, and weighs a scant 8.5 ounces. Duffels like this are great solutions for throwing into larger suitcases to be used on shorter missions during your trip, or as backup luggage.

While a duffel bag’s weight doesn’t matter as much as that of an ultralight backpack , it is still an important consideration when planning your trip. Rolling duffels, for instance, can have dry weights north of 8 pounds (like the Patagonia Black Hole wheeled duffel), which is a significant chunk out of the 50-pound weight limit of checked baggage on most airlines.

Straps and Carrying Comfort

This is where duffel bag manufacturers truly flex their creative muscles. Simple side handles with a shoulder strap, removable backpack harness that stows into a pocket, or handles that transform into backpack straps and snap together with a magnet — this feature can get complicated. It is an admittedly difficult conundrum for these brands. How do they keep the bag streamlined and easy to throw around, while making it comfortable enough to carry long distances?

Versatility is key when handling duffel bags, and different situations require you to carry them in different ways. You may just need a small handle on the side to transport your bag into another room or pull it from the bed of a truck. A single shoulder strap while lugging it between airport gates may suffice, while it makes sense to use a full backpack harness when walking across town. A good duffel bag can be grabbed from any angle and carried with ease.

You’ll see a lot of variety in the strap designs of duffel bags. Most will have some way of either carrying the bag slung over your shoulder with a single padded strap, or as a traditional backpack with two shoulder straps (generally found on models with larger volumes). 

Our favorite layout for easy handling is two top carry handles, two haul handles on the top and bottom, and removable padded backpack straps. For us, this allows for maximum carrying comfort and quick organization during the duffel shuffle.

These bags get chucked around a lot, so the fewer loops and straps that could get snagged on things the better. For that reason, shoulder straps will usually be fully removable, or able to be tucked away in a pouch on the lid or side.

The Sea to Summit Duffel features one of the more unique carrying designs we’ve seen. Cozy, contoured harness straps easily clip to the top and bottom of the pack, and have above-average padding for heavy loads. When you want to pick the bag up without wearing it on your back, magnets in the shoulder straps quickly snap together to form an effective carrying handle.

Peak Design’s Travel Duffel also has a good deal of modularity and allows you to configure its straps in different ways depending on how you want to carry it throughout your trip.

No matter how fancy the strap system is on a duffel, they will almost never be as comfortable as an actual backpacking backpack , so don’t plan on clocking serious miles with them. Though some will have hipbelts, without a backpack frame, beefy foam shoulder straps, or ventilation systems, they tend to wear you down pretty fast.

Materials and Weather Resistance

If duffels need to be one thing — it’s durable. These bags often find themselves being tossed about, drug through the dirt, or strapped to the outside of trucks, and they need to keep expensive gear safe through it all.

The denier of a duffel’s material (often written as a number followed by “D”), is a good general way to determine the durability and weather resistance of a bag. Denier is a unit of measurement that indicates the thickness of the yarns that are used to construct a fabric. The number represents the actual amount of yarn within each thread. So the durable 900-denier polyester shell of Patagonia’s Black Hole contains 900 yarns within each of its threads, plus a TPU-film laminate for water resistance.

Most of the brands in our lineup employ some combination of tough ballistic nylon, polyester, or TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) laminate for their duffel’s face fabrics. TPU is a plastic-like film used to laminate and waterproof fabric — it is not a fabric itself. These materials will often be ripstop to help fend off large tears, and many duffels have reinforced areas that get particularly abused, like the bottom.

Vinyl or laminate finishes are common on outdoor duffels and will keep the bag’s contents dry in light to moderate rain, but water will eventually leak through zippers and seams that aren’t taped. Fully waterproof models obviously don’t have this weakness.

From hard-working expedition bags with face fabrics boasting 1,000-denier or more, to ultralight casual duffels with flimsy 70-denier nylon shells, we cover a wide range of options on this list. While denier and fabric choice aren’t the only determining factors in a bag’s durability over long trips, it’s a good, quick way to compare different models and narrow in on the best pick for your travel needs.

Ease of Use and Packing

A variety of features contribute to a duffel bag’s ease of use while packing and unpacking your gear. Below we’ve outlined some extra features that boost a bag’s useability.

Main Compartment

In case you haven’t caught it by now, our favorite lid design for duffels is definitely a large U-shaped opening. Nothing beats it for quickly accessing everything in the bag’s main compartment while maintaining structure and weather resistance. It is easier to add storm flaps to this design than it is on a single center zipper, as the lid flap naturally overlaps the zipper, protecting the zipper from moisture.

The Sea to Summit Duffle Bag has one of the larger, easier-to-open U-shaped lids we tried. We love being able to quickly see and rummage through piles of climbing and camping gear immediately after pulling it open.

Center zippers make it more difficult to pack things in an orderly fashion and access that gear when the bag is filled to the max. They do tend to be shorter than U-shaped zippers though, so can save some overall weight.

Some U-shaped openings hinge from the sides of the duffel, while others, like Osprey’s Transporter or Rab’s Expedition KitBag , hinge from the top. This means the lid is longer and thinner when opened, which isn’t our favorite design, particularly if there are mesh pockets on the lid. They tend to be harder to hold open, and feel a bit floppy while accessing the pockets.

The main compartments of duffels will often have a couple of mesh zippered pockets inside or on the lid (like on Gregory’s Alpaca ), or removable dividers to boost internal organization (like on Eagle Creek’s Cargo Hauler ), but they are generally quite basic.

The fabric and design of a duffel help dictate how easy it is to pack with clothes and gear. Duffels that have stiffer sides and thicker fabrics are much easier to load up, as they stay firm even when empty, and don’t fold over on themselves while holding them open with one hand and packing with the other.

Our main complaint with our top pick, Patagonia’s Black Hole , lies in its flimsy fabric. Models like The North Face Base Camp Duffel or Black Diamond’s StoneHauler , on the other hand, boast solid structure with stiff materials and padding to hold the bag open. However, this can come at the cost of a higher weight.

Extra Internal and External Pockets

With your bulky gear and clothing items inhabiting the main compartment, you’ll want some smaller pockets for loose items like toiletries, passports, and electronics. Internal pockets help with organization, and external ones provide quick access to essentials while on the go.

We found that the vast majority of duffels have a couple of zippered mesh pockets on the inside of their lids. This isn’t our favorite design, as we prefer to have pockets in the main compartment itself, since heavy items in the lid make it unwieldy when opening and closing the bag. This does make it so that you can grab those items without having to shove other gear aside, but those pockets generally go unused by us.

Patagonia’s Black Hole features one of our favorite pocket designs, with the ability to access one of its extra pockets from both outside or inside the bag.

Many duffels will have one or two zippered compartments on either end of the bag, which are often big enough for larger items like rain jackets or hiking shoes . These are great for keeping dirty clothes separate from clean ones as the days go on, or for stashing gear you need to easily access.

Lashing Points

You may never have to tether your duffel to a muggy jeep bouncing down a dirt road, or a smelly yak teetering over a mountain pass — but you definitely want it to be secure if you do. Bags for light travel and casual use might never see these conditions, but expedition duffels will often be put to the test atop a variety of different modes of transportation. These can be some of the most important elements of a duffel bag.

Most bags designed for outdoor use feature some layout of daisy chains or nylon straps along the sides of the bag. Our favorite daisy chain design is a horizontal configuration that runs the length of the bag, allowing for a more even tie-down of the load. Gregory’s Alpaca , The North Face’s Base Camp , and Black Diamond’s StoneHauler sport this setup.

Sea to Summit’s Duffle Bag only has a couple of small lash points on each side, and Patagonia’s Black Hole has two daisy chains that run vertically up the side, limiting your tie-down options. These aren’t our favorite configurations, but still get the job done.

No matter the layout, lashing points need to be robust enough to hold serious weight while tied to unstable vehicles and animals. You don’t want your gear tumbling down a slope mid-adventure because the stitching popped out.

Black Diamond nudges the bar high with the StoneHauler . They put its tie-down loops through the same load tests as their carabiners and cams, and rated each one to 2kN. The daisy chains on Gregory’s Alpaca also inspire lots of confidence, and are great for strapping to pulk sleds or roof racks.

Waterproof duffels often forgo lashing points to reduce the amount of stitching on the bag, and casual-use duffels may leave them off, opting for a simpler, lighter design. If you plan on tying your bag down during your travels, make sure it’s ready for the job.

Internal and External Compression Straps

These are some of our favorite features of duffels, and we bemoan the design of a bag if it doesn’t have them. Aside from rolling duffels, most models on this list don’t have a lot of internal structure to speak of. For that reason, loads that don’t entirely fill the bag jostle and shift around a good deal during travel and can make the duffel unwieldy and floppy — particularly when carrying it like a backpack.

Both internal and external compression straps help snug down the load, making it a tighter, easier-to-transport package. External compression straps are rarer, but can be found on bags like Rab’s Kitbag , or The North Face Base Camp .

Internal straps help keep things organized and compact while on the road. This means clothes stay folded, shoes stay together, and you won’t find a tossed salad of gear when you zip open your bag at the end of the day.  

Flying With Duffel Bags

Duffel bags can be great flying companions, and many brands offer 30L to 40L models that are carry-on compatible if you’re looking to dodge checked baggage fees. Patagonia’s Black Hole, for instance, comes in the popular 40L option that meets most airline and train carry-on requirements.

Bag dimensions of 22 x 14 x 9 inches are standard for carry-ons on many common airlines such as United, American, and Delta. Some airlines, like Delta, do not have weight limits for carry-ons to most destinations. Others, such as Frontier, put a cap at 35 pounds. Keep this in mind as you are loading up your bag. We found the 21” The North Face Voyager wheeled duffel to be our go-to carry-on model for domestic and international flights alike.

Duffels make great checked bags as well. Since they weigh less themselves, you can often fill them with more heavy gear than regular suitcases, and they are built to be thrown around and handled roughly.

United, American, and Delta have weight limits of 50 pounds for checked bags, with common international airlines like Qatar, Turkish, and British Airways enforcing similar restrictions in the 51-55-pound range.

Airlines generally have checked bag size limits of around 35 x 30 x 17 inches, which is plenty big enough for most duffels you’ll throw in the belly of a plane. Rolling duffels obviously provide some of the greatest ease of transport while navigating airports on a long trip.

If the entirety of your trip will accommodate a bag with wheels, we’d definitely recommend them. But be careful — these are heavier duffels and you won’t be able to pack quite as much before hitting 50 pounds.

Be sure to always check the baggage regulations of your airline before packing for your flight, as the above figures could change over time. Interested in how we pack our duffels, backpacks, and suitcases for various trips? Check out our tips and tricks for both domestic   and  international travel .

While there are some great budget options out there, you do get what you pay for with duffel bags. In the midst of an adventure, duffel bags serve as the barrier between your valuable cargo and the unforgiving elements. Make sure you can travel with confidence.

Expect to pay anywhere from $60 to $300 for a quality duffel bag. Additional features and bleeding-edge technology boost the value and useability of a duffel bag — along with its price tag.

Simple cheaper models like REI’s Roadtripper will get you a basic polyester tube with webbing for $65, which may be just what you need for occasional weekend jaunts. Staring down the barrel of a full-on expedition up Denali? You’ll need to shell out a bit more cash.

Duffel bags at the higher echelon of quality, functionality, and durability — like Black Diamond’s StoneHauler — will run up your tab ($230). If you’re seeking total confidence when toting your gear on truly rugged missions, the price tag may be justified. Burly SuperGrid ripstop fabric ain’t cheap, but it won’t break under pressure, preventing your cargo from spilling across the mountainside.

Down the middle of the road, you have casual-use models like Peak Design’s Travel Duffel , which aren’t crafted for wild expeditions but will still hold up to moderate abuse. These duffel bags will run you anywhere from $100 to $200 and are great versatile options for a variety of different travel scenarios.

No matter which duffel you go with, every bag on this list has proven to be dependable on far-flung overseas tours, and short overnight excursions alike. We feel confident recommending each of them for any journey you’ve penned down on your bucket list.

After years of stuffing climbing, camping, and expedition gear into the Patagonia Black Hole and hauling it to far-off places, we feel that it is the best all-around duffel bag on the market right now. While different models may serve you better for more niche needs, the Black Hole is one of the more versatile bags we tested, and performs incredibly on both tough outdoor missions and casual trips. It features our favorite strap layout, main opening, and fabric choice, and is just fantastic to travel with.

Duffels are flexible, light, extremely durable pieces of luggage that offer greater versatility than traditional suitcases. They are often cylindrical tube-like bags made with tough ballistic nylon or polyester and are quite weather-resistant, with zippered or drawstring openings at the top. 

Suitcases, on the other hand, are usually rectangular rigid cases with a large hinged lid to access your possessions. They may not offer as much weather resistance, but will have more structure and often have wheels to help roll them long distances. 

Duffels are the better option for outdoor and expedition use, as they are much easier to transport through difficult terrain, or to lash onto various vehicles or animals.

Travelers use duffel bags for various reasons, and the type of trips you have on the docket will help dictate the duffel you decide to buy. Some use them for simple weekend travel, while others depend on them to protect sensitive gear in harsh landscapes on wild adventures. Regardless of where you intend to bring your duffel, you want it to be reliable and durable enough to keep your gear protected from the elements.

Duffel bags make great travel luggage because of their malleable, versatile nature, and ability to be easily strapped to different modes of transportation. This makes them perfect for trips that go through a wide variety of landscapes and environments.

We highlight a number of different categories of duffels in this guide, and each one is catered to different types of trips. All of the duffels we tested fall into the following designations: expedition duffel bags, travel/casual use duffel bags, waterproof duffel bags, and rolling duffel bags.

Many of the bags above fit into a couple of different categories. The Cotopaxi Allpa , for instance, could easily be used for both casual use and expeditions in harsh settings.

Many models of duffel bags come in carry-on sizes, and can be used to cut down on the cost of checked baggage. Most airlines enforce dimensions of 22 x 14 x 9 inches for carry-on bags. Usually, a duffel bag in the 30-40L range will fall within these restrictions.

Most duffels with volumes of 50 L or more will have either removable or stowable backpack straps to help with carrying your bag long distances. Not all backpack straps are created equal, though, and some are much more comfortable than others.

The Osprey Transporter has the most cozy backpack system of any of the duffels we tried, and we had no problem carting it across town to a bus stop or standing in line for hours in the airport with it on our backs.

No matter how fancy the backpack straps are on a duffel bag, they will almost never be as comfortable to carry as backpacking backpacks. You shouldn’t plan on having to trek for long periods of time with your duffel, as it could wear you down fast.

The Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

We found the best travel backpacks of 2024, including top picks from Peak Design, Osprey, Patagonia, and more.

The Best Backpacking Backpacks of 2024

Head into the backcountry with the best backpacking backpacks of 2024. From budget-friendly options to ultra-comfortable picks, we’ve got you covered.

Based in beautiful Chattanooga, Tennessee, Chris Carter is a Senior Editor for GearJunkie, while squeezing in side gigs as an adventure filmmaker and content creator in the outdoor industry. Drawing from his childhood in Africa, experience as a rock climbing and backpacking guide, ultra-marathon running, and years of extensive thru-hiking, he’s passionate about journalism that gets people into the wild. He has thru-hiked the Triple Crown of long trails in America: the Pacific Crest Trail (2018), the Continental Divide Trail (2021), and the Appalachian Trail (2021), and has explored, rock-climbed, and backpacked all over the world. He hopes to spread his love of adventure and travel through his writing, art, and videography.

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This Tough Cotopaxi Duffle Is A Travel 'Game Changer' — And It's 30% Off"

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Travel and packing just got easier thanks to this heavy-duty Cotopaxi 70-liter duffle bag, currently $48 off just in time for summer vacation. Plenty spacious and loaded with tons of pockets for keeping organized, the Allpa Duo 70L is also lightweight and easy to carry; it has dual handles that come together with a snap-button plus removable straps for wearing as a backpack — which one user raves are “surprisingly comfortable!” Reviewers also love this duffle for hiking , trips overseas, and packing tons of gear. One user even says it’s great for backpacking.

The Allpa features a TPU-coated, water-resistant exterior, a dedicated interior pocket for stowing dirty laundry, and a tough-as-nails 1,000-denier polyester shell that gives it superior abrasion resistance. That ruggedness means easy cleaning when it’s back home and away from dirty airport floors, and it’s designed to hold up to baggage handlers free-throwing it into the cargo hold.

Some reviewers say they’ve managed to bring it aboard as a personal carry-on, while several say it’s large enough for at least one week of travel. One particular reviewer says if you’re a light packer, they can “easily see this being big enough for” two to three weeks away.

The Allpa Duo 70L comes in colors like black, oak, pacific, and wine, each with colorful zippers for a little extra pop. Whether you’ve got an overseas backpacking trip coming up or you’re planning a week-long family getaway, grab this duffel now and grip it into your next adventure.

Check out more promising reviews about what makes this can-handle-anything duffle bag the perfect travel companion:

“I was looking for a bag that was big enough to for my upcoming European travels but would leave my hands free to tend to my kids - this bag hit all my requirements and I can’t wait to use it.” — Rebecca M. “I bought this bag to replace an old Nike duffel bag I’ve had for awhile and I did not disappoint, very thick material with lots of space and pockets.” — Bailey F. “The bag is perfect for all travels. Spacious enough but the benefit of carrying it like a backpack. I had done a 14 day trek with a regular backpacking bag and it was miserable to have to go through the top and constantly pull everything out to get to one thing but with this you get to open the whole compartment and find what you may need without making the bag a complete mess. It’s a must!! PS this pack is used for so many of the options to choice from, don’t limit yourself and use it for everything!” — Michelle C. “I bought the 70 and the 50 ml and they’re both wonderful. Surprisingly, the 50 L fits all of our gear and ropes etc but the 70 L fits all of that and our Bernese mountain dog puppy (unzipped). Good material and it’s durable.” — Alex A. “Bought this to bring my ski gear to the mountain, tons of extra space, fits all my gear and my boots” — Luke N.

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The North Face Duffel That Shoppers Call the 'Perfect Weekender Bag' Is Finally on Sale for Under $100 at REI

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Roller luggage is convenient when navigating the terminals, but its utility is limited outside of the airport. Duffel bags, on the other hand, are great for road trips and car camping , and they have a ruggedly adventurous appeal. Outdoor and camping brands like Patagonia and The North Face make some of the best adventure-ready duffels, like The North Face’s Base Camp Voyager Duffel, which is on a rare sale right now at REI .

Typically $125, the 32-liter The North Face Base Camp Voyager Duffel is discounted by 28%, dropping the price under $90. The bag is available in a navy colorway with gold accents, or a military-inspired khaki green shade. The bag is packed with features that are ideal for camping excursions and weekend getaways. 

The North Face Base Camp Voyager Duffel in Summit Navy, $89 (was $125) at REI

The duffel shines when it comes to versatility. It has shoulder straps that tuck into a hidden pocket when not in use, making it easy to convert from a duffel to a backpack. Then there's the U-shaped opening so you can see everything in the bag, and there are a multitude of mesh pockets for easy organization. A movable divider makes it simple to separate clean and dirty laundry or divide shoes from clothes, and the side pockets are handy for items like shoes. Plus, there’s a hidden laptop sleeve, which anyone traveling with electronics will find handy.

The bag is a utilitarian option for weekend getaways, according to shoppers, including one who called it the "perfect weekender bag." "Perfect for short trips and very durable," they wrote. "I plan on using this bag for a very long time. It has the best compartments to help you stay organized and fit a lot without over-stuffing the bag." Another called it a "good compact and versatile duffle," writing, "I got this for weekend trips and using it as an airplane carry-on. Its construction seems really durable and I like how it has handles on each side as well as the straps for backpack use."

The North Face Base Camp Voyager Duffel in New Taupe Green, $89 (was $125) at REI

While duffels shine for quick getaways, shoppers also found that this bag worked for longer trips, with one calling it "perfect for international travel." "I purchased this as my personal item for a three-week trip to Europe, and because it doesn’t have a frame, handle, and wheels, it is extremely light and has more interior room than my international carry-on," they noted, continuing, "It’s inexpensive, lightweight, and for me a travel game changer.”

Whether you need an adventure-ready bag for car camping or you want a convenient weekender for your next flight, The North Face’s Base Camp Voyager Duffel is a versatile option for every kind of trip. At its sub-$90 price, it’s worth acting fast. 

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• Travel Products
• Luggage + Bags
• Suitcases + Duffel Bags

The 11 Best Rolling Duffel Bags of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

We tested 30 bags to find the best rolling duffel for every trip.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying

Frequently Asked Questions

• Other Bags We've Written About
• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

New travel gear can quickly add up, so it’s important to invest in the right pieces that will last a long time, especially for luggage and other bags. To help you in this journey, we set out to find the best of the best when it comes to rolling duffels, combing the market before ultimately putting 30 products through a battery of tests.

We packed them to the brim to test their capacity. We went over them with a fine-tooth comb to consider design features big and small. We pushed them, pulled them, and steered them every which way to test their maneuverability. We then took a baseball bat to them to test durability (seriously). And, above all else, we considered all of these tests, and their respective price tags, to consider what total value these bags offer.

It was tough work, but somebody had to do it — and that’s how we landed on these final 11 rolling duffels. We found the perfect pick for anyone traveling light, a standout for camping trips and other outdoor adventures, and so forth.

Best Overall

Patagonia wheeled duffel bag.

Backcountry

• Capacity 5 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Maneuverability 4.5 /5
• Durability 5 /5

It’s incredibly spacious and durable.

Because it’s so large, some may struggle with maneuvering it.

Get on board with the bag that travelers around the world swear by: Patagonia’s Black Hole Duffel, which comes in a 40-liter, a 70-liter, and an unbelievably spacious 100-liter version. We tested the largest size which features a large main compartment that makes it a cinch to pack whatever gear you throw its way, as well as a zippered side pocket and mesh pockets for smaller items you want to keep separate. Packing quickly, we found that we had so much room to spare during tests. If we were to roll the clothes or even use packing cubes, we could fit double or triple the number of items.

The bag is also highly weather-resistant, crafted from a coated ripstop material made from 100 percent recycled fabric, lining, and webbing — exactly what you want to pack for a trip to Antarctica . The durable, oversized wheels performed well during our maneuverability tests, but we did dock half a point because this is a very, very large bag that smaller individuals may have difficulty moving around, especially in crowded spaces. We also noticed, after regularly using the bag for two months, that it sometimes falls over when fully packed because it is front-heavy.

The Details: 9.3 pounds | 32.6 x 16 x 13.7 inches | 100 liters

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Travel + Leisure /Jhett Thompson

Best Weekender

Samsonite weekend wheeled duffel.

Samsonite 

• Capacity 4.5 /5
• Portability 5 /5

Easily carry this bag with its top handles or crossbody strap when it’s not possible to roll it along.

It’s a smaller bag that’s likely best for shorter trips.

Not every rolling duffel needs to be an enormous 100-liter behemoth for carrying the bulkiest, heaviest gear — sometimes it just needs to be big enough for a weekend getaway or a quick business trip. This reliable Samsonite falls solidly into the latter category. It has so many things that business travelers in particular will enjoy, including a front zippered pocket with an integrated USB charging port, a front pocket with a tech organization panel to keep your things in order on the fly, a padded tablet sleeve, and even a removable wristlet. After six months of regularly using this bag, we loved that you can carry it with the handles, shoulder straps, or by rolling it, so you can stay comfortable and mobile throughout the day. The bag is hassle-free due to a retractable push-button handle and sturdy wheels that moved easily over a variety of surfaces. When you’re ready to go at a moment’s notice, this weekender is, too.

The Details: 4.8 pounds | 21.8 x 12 x 12.5 inches

Best Checked

Ebags mother lode checked rolling duffel.

• Design 4.5 /5
• Portability 4.8 /5
• Value 4.7 /5

It has two compartments that are both very deep.

The top compartment’s opening is slightly small relative to its size so you may need to stuff items in fully.

We were pleasantly surprised by just how spacious this 29-inch rolling duffel is, easily able to fit clothing for a weeklong trip with room left over. It’s complete with two large open compartments that are deep enough for packing large loads, two compression straps, and several internal and external pockets for stowing smaller goods including shoes. There is even an expansion zipper to add a few more inches of space. It may not have eye-catching style, but it’s all-in-all a simple, solid bag that (more than) gets the job done. We especially appreciated the large, substantial wheels, durable material, and sturdy handle which makes this duffel a solid choice for a checked bag that makes it to baggage claim and beyond.

The Details: 12 pounds | 29 x 17 x 15 inches

Best Organization

Ogio terminal travel bag.

• Design 4 /5

There’s tons of room thanks to internal and external compartments.

It’s on the heavier side when empty.

If you love built-in organization, this bag has multiple compartments ideal for two weeks’ worth of clothing, shoes, accessories, toiletries, and more that can fit far more than needed. We also appreciated the variety of external handles which make loading this bag into a car or onto a luggage rack a cinch. After six months of use, we think it's the perfect size — large, but not bulky. It gives off major “campfire couture vibes” so we love the idea of taking this bag on an outdoor adventure or road trip, which could call for a wide range of gear, and a need to lug it beyond just using the smooth-rolling wheels.

The Details: 10.6 pounds | 16 x 13 x 29 inches | 95 liters

Best Budget

Travelers club upright rolling duffel bag.

• Portability 3.8 /5
• Durability 4.7 /5

It has very sturdy handles, especially considering the affordable price tag.

It's too big to fit in the overhead bin.

When we packed this duffel with two weeks’ worth of winter gear, there was plenty of room left over. The main compartment was much more spacious than we originally thought, and we especially loved the variety of exterior pockets which made staying organized a breeze. The handle, while sturdy, is on the thinner side and the wheels are smaller than some others on this list, which made maneuvering this bag over carpet, cement, and through tight turns marginally more challenging. After traveling with this bag regularly for six months, we love like how it rolls, but found that it's too big to be used as a carry-on item and must be checked. But, for under $50, you’ll have a hard time finding a better rolling duffel, and it comes in a wide range of colors for an option that will stick out at baggage claim, too.

The Details: 8 pounds | 30 x 12 x 13 inches | 77 liter

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Best Splurge

Tumi large split 2-wheeled duffel.

• Value 4.5 /5
• Durability 4 /5

It maneuvers very well across different environments.

The exterior picks up dust easily.

They say that travel is about the journey, not (necessarily) the destination, and packing a Tumi bag is always an enjoyable part of any journey. In fact, after regularly using the bag for six months, we found that it can fit many weeks' worth of clothing while keeping gear and accessories organized in individual pockets. The fabric and the zippers are substantial and luxurious, and the bag easily held up for multiple bat whacks and drops from a high table. We were especially impressed by how easily it maneuvered over a variety of different surfaces, and noted how smoothly the oversized wheels worked on uneven carpeting, too. This rolling duffel also has enough compartments to satisfy any organization enthusiast, with two sides including one with added compression straps to hold clothing securely. The price tag may be steep, but this bag’s looks and performance make it a worthy investment.

The Details: 11 pounds | 16 x 30.3 x 14 inches | 98 liters

Best Water-resistant

Osprey transporter wheeled duffel 90.

• Design 3.5 /5
• Portability 4.5 /5

It’s an ideal bag for inclement weather and rough handling conditions.

There is no handle to carry the bag horizontally.

Torrential downpours and even the errant sidewalk puddle don’t stand a chance with this water-resistant rolling duffel that even has rainflaps for added protection against the elements. It’s made of extremely durable TPU fabric with a DWR coating to shed water, snow, and other moisture away. It has a large capacity with compression straps to easily fit more than a week’s worth of clothing as well. After using the bag regularly for six months, we found that it also rolls so easily, whether traveling over carpet, sidewalks, or any other surface and is a perfect simple bag for any trip.

The bag did lose points for its exterior handles — there are only short handles on the sides (along with the rolling handle) which would make it easy to pull a bag off the conveyer belt but awkward to lift it high when fully packed. Still, after taking a bat to it, there was zero visible damage to the wheels, frame, or fabric when finished. Overall, it’s an excellent, durable option for protecting your gear during the most intense of adventures.

The Details: 7.5 pounds | 31.5 x 17.3 x 13.8 inches | 90 liters

Gonex Rolling Duffel Bag With Wheels

The bag is like a half-suitcase, half-duffel with a structured bottom and flexible top half.

The bag itself is on the stiffer side.

There’s a fine line between budget and value options — and we feel like this Gonex rolling duffel bag delivered quality at a very competitive price point, stacking up to many of the more expensive bags at a fraction of the cost. It’s a long, stiff bag but we had no issues going through our obstacle course and over rougher surfaces. Even after six months of frequent use, the wheels move with élan and the handle was easy to hold. We loved the design, too — it’s like a half-suitcase, half-duffel with a structured bottom half and a fabric upper flap, plus easy-to-adjust straps on the sides to secure the contents even more. We were also impressed with the sturdiness of this bag, including the structured bottom half, which makes the bag extra durable.

The Details: 10.5 pounds | 16 x 15 x 33.4 inches | 100 liters

Best for Gear

Thule chasm wheeled duffel.

• Portability 4 /5

The main compartment is basically just one giant, super-deep pocket that's perfect for large items.

The bag is so large it can be difficult to roll.

For anyone who wants a large-capacity bag with a simple design, the Thule Chasm wheeled duffel is the perfect choice. If you're packing for a long trip or one that involves bringing a lot of bulky items, this is a great option thanks to its large compartment that is easy to pack. There's also an additional pocket on the top with a mesh opening between it and the main compartment, as well as two mesh zipper pockets on the lid to keep smaller items organized and secure.

The handle works well, but the bag is so bulky, the best way to transport this bag is by rolling. We found that the wheels glide quite smoothly, but the bag can be unwieldy due to its size, so it may not be best for those who know they're likely to move in a hurry. Throughout our tests, we found the bag to be extremely durable with no damage to the bag after we hit it with a bat. The outer seems exceptionally tear-resistant and thick, so great for anyone looking to get the most out of their luggage.

The Details: 10.2 pounds | 15.4 x 16.9 x 32 inches | 110 liters

Best Lightweight

Eagle creek cargo hauler.

• Maneuverability 3 /5

It’s the lightest bag we tested and it even includes a packing cube and convertible backpack straps.

After using this bag for six months, we felt it can be cumbersome and isn't suitable for light packers.

This bag is proof that when it comes to luggage, bigger can, in fact, be better. It packs an astonishing 130 liters of volume (which is rare to find, even in bags two or three times its weight), yet manages to clock in at a positively featherweight four pounds, seven ounces—making it one of our favorite lightweight luggage options. But just because it’s big doesn’t mean it doesn’t pull its own weight — it’s constructed from an abrasion-resistant material that’s designed to last, and is water-repellant for anything from rain to sleet and snow.

Our favorite thing about this bag was that it also converts to a backpack, which can justify the fact that it won’t stand upright (as you wouldn’t want a hard frame pushing into your back if carrying that way). We can see this bag being an excellent choice for a safari bush plane with weight limits, or any instance when you wanted to start off with a featherweight bag before loading up your gear into the bag and the included packing cube.

The Details: 4.4 pounds | 34 x 13.75 x 15 inches | 130 liters

Best Carry-on

Vera bradley foldable rolling duffel bag.

 Amazon

• Value 4.6 /5
• Durability 4.6 /5

After six months of regularly using this bag, we're in love with the hefty bottom compartment that’s great for packing shoes.

We docked half a point for capacity because the bag is a little small.

The ideal carry-on is one that not only performs well, but looks good doing it, too. This bag manages to do both. It’s made from ReActive, a lightweight, durable, water-repellent material made from recycled water bottles, and folds down neatly for storage when not in use. There’s an interior curtain that can be zippered to separate the top and bottom compartments to keep you organized, and the main compartment also features one mesh slip pocket for smaller items. In fact, we packed enough items for a several-day trip in the top before realizing there was room at the bottom for at least four more pairs of shoes. Plus, this being Vera Bradley, the bag also comes in a few stunning patterns as well — so in a sea of black carry-on bags, you’ll be sure to stand out.

The Details: 10 x 20.5 x 12.5 inches | 5.6 pounds

Other Rolling Duffels We Liked

Some rolling duffels we tested couldn’t quite earn a spot on our list, but had standout features that may meet the needs of some travelers.

Briggs & Riley Baseline Large Two-wheel Duffel : This luxury rolling duffel definitely delivers on the style front. We especially liked that it had both a large duffel section and a flat packing section, but it is on the more expensive side and only had one exterior pocket.

Travelpro Bold by Travelpro Check-in Drop-Bottom Expandable Rolling Duffel : This rolling duffel is made from a rugged, water-repellant and stain-resistant polyester fabric and comes with a reinforced telescoping handle, but it’s incredibly bulky and may be difficult to store.

In our quest to find the best-of-the-best wheeled bags, we combed the marketplace and narrowed our top selections down to 30 rolling duffels that then underwent a vigorous luggage testing process over a six-month period. We weighed them with luggage scales while empty before filling carry-on-sized duffels with a week’s worth of clothes and checked-size duffels with closer to two week’s worth of clothes (and used the same items for each sample bag, to compare how the exact clothes fit bag to bag). We considered organizational and storage features such as padded sleeves, compression straps, pockets, and external daisy chains. We obsessed over how every single zipper opened and closed, too.

The tests continued with how these bags might perform in the real world. We rolled the duffels back and forth across a range of surfaces to test them for maneuverability, on everything from smooth lab floors to high-pile carpets. We even set up an obstacle course to make sure these bags can turn on a dime. We examined how much the external handles helped us move the bag from car to curb and back again. And, perhaps most fun of all, we took a baseball bat to each bag to test them for durability. Ultimately, we rated each bag on a five-point scale in a number of categories and the top performers are the ones you see on this list.

Tips for Buying a Rolling Duffel Bag

Check your airline’s size requirements.

Even the perfect rolling duffel won’t be much use to you if it doesn’t meet your airline’s size requirements for carry-on or checked bags, so be sure to check online before committing to a new bag. This is especially important when it comes to carry-on duffel bags . It’s also worth mentioning that since duffel bags lend themselves to being stuffed to the brim, you may want to consider how much your bag weighs, especially if it’s on the larger side.

Consider pockets, compartments, and other organizational features

With a roomy duffel bag, you may be tempted to go with a “more-is-more” mentality when it comes to packing, especially with the higher-volume duffels that have truly enormous main compartments. But it’s worth considering the smaller stuff, too. Different models of bags come with different varieties of internal and external organizational features such as zippered compartments, padded laptop or tablet sleeves, or even included packing cubes. It all depends on how organized you’d like to be, and how much you’ll depend on your bag itself to keep you organized.

Look for multiple carrying options

A duffel, once packed, can vary widely in terms of bulk and weight, and a good bag will keep up with you in a variety of environments. You’ll want to make sure your bag can be carried in multiple ways, whether that’s by hand via a top handle, by its telescoping handle as it’s rolled down long airport hallways, or perhaps by convertible backpack or crossbody straps for other alternatives.

Look for durable materials

The right duffel bag can last a lifetime, especially if you buy one made from the right materials. This is the kind of bag you’ll probably be checking at airports, throwing under buses, and really putting through the ringer in terms of durability, so look for materials that are up for the challenge. Ripstop fabrics in particular are extremely durable but also lightweight, and products coated with DWR or other weather-resistant coatings are an added bonus.

There’s no right or wrong answer here. But for shorter business trips or weekend getaways, something carry-on sized with a maximum of 40 liters in volume, such as a weekender bag , is probably enough. If you’re packing for a week or more, or looking to pack bulky camera equipment or the like, look at bags upwards of 100 liters in size.

Duffel bags are spacious, flexible, lightweight, and easy to carry. They don’t always have the same structural support or protective elements of a suitcase, making them best for things that can’t necessarily break in transit. So, if you’re just traveling with clothes and soft goods, a duffel bag is a good choice for you.

The first step is always to read the manufacturer’s instructions — but most duffel bags can be cleaned with a damp rag, perhaps with a little soap or white vinegar, and then allowed to air dry fully before being packed again or stowed away.

Other Bags We've Written About

We've given plenty of other impressive rolling duffel bags a whirl — some of which we've covered in the past . These picks stood out because of their durability, quality materials, and impressive capacity, and we think they're worth considering,

Ektronik Rolling Weekend Duffel Bag : Made from durable, water-resistant nylon, it fits under most airplane seats yet offers ample space for a one-to-three-day trip.

Rains' Texel Check-in Bag : Those who frequent destinations with plenty of precipitation (whether that’s ski resort snow or tropical rain) would do well to invest in a fully waterproof duffel. The Texel Check-in Bag from Rains is a great option.

Eagle Creek No Matter What Rolling Duffel Bag XL : When size matters, choose the Eagle Creek No Matter What Rolling Duffel Bag XL. With a massive capacity of 130 liters, it pushes the boundaries for the maximum size allowable by most airlines but should offer enough room for just about anything you want to pack.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this article, contributor Todd Plummer used the T+L team’s testing insights as well as his own research to compile a list of the best rolling duffel bags for travel.

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