Best Stylish Travel Duffel Bags for 2023

by Albert Varkki updated 06-02-2023

Table Of Contents

best travel duffel bags

Duffel bags can be a fantastic alternative to backpacks and suitcases.

Duffel bags tend to come in various sizes, which means you’ll be well catered for whether you need a large item with wheels or a very small bag to transport with you on the plane.

You do need to make sure your duffel bag gives you enough space for any clothes that you want to carry and has enough capacity for any small bits and pieces you like to carry with you.

In this guide, we'll go over our top picks for a travel duffel bag in 2023, as well as features to look out for.

Top Picks

Want a quick breakdown? Here are our top picks:

  1. Best Leather Weekend Bag: Weekender (click to view) - a leather weekender that's both professional and practical, with a dedicated laptop compartment and detachable shoulder strap. Made from high quality full grain leather.
  2. Best Professional Garment Bag: Grand Leather Garment Bag (click to view) - a stylish and professional travel bag with a built in garment bag for your suit. Full grain leather, detachable shoulder strap.
  3. Best Professional Tote Bag: Elegance Tote Bag (click to view) - a stylish zipped tote bag that's ideal for work or travel. The full grain leather looks impeccable, and the detachable shoulder strap makes it versatile for multiple uses.

Best Travel Duffel Bags for 2023

Weekender Leather Weekend Bag

Weekender

Best for a stylish weekend getaway with friends, the Weekender leather bag is spacious and durable, perfect for packing all your essentials.

Weekender Product Highlights:

MaterialCertified Italian vegetable-tanned leather
DesignSpacious design perfect for gym and travel with a dedicated sleeve for up to a 16" laptop
InteriorDurable cotton lining with compartments for organization
ZipperJapanese YKK zipper for reliable access
ComplianceMeets airline size standards for carry-on luggage
CraftsmanshipHandcrafted in Florence, Italy by experienced craftsmen
Additional FeaturesAdjustable and removable leather shoulder strap, studs on the base for protection, solid brass hardware
PersonalizedOption for custom laser engraving
Use CasesTravel, gym, sports, weekend getaways
SustainabilitySupports local communities and eco-friendly practices

Watch the Weekender product video below:

Browse more images of the Weekender:

Our review:

"Look no further if you require a unisex bag for travel � this carry-on compliant bag can give you everything you need. The bag is made from premium full-grain leather and comes complete with a sleeve for a laptop up to 16". The bag is perfect for overseas travel as well as your next staycation and boasts robust cotton lining and a YKK zipper. The bag has been designed to be as practical as it is elegant. It also comes with smooth top leather handles and an adjustable shoulder strap which will make transportation a breeze. Carry clothing, chargers, toiletries and more."
Pros Cons
Made of full grain leather May have a slightly higher cost compared to other materials
Stylish and sophisticated design Not completely waterproof
Ample storage space for essentials Not ideal for extremely heavy items
Comfortable to carry and handle
Durable and long-lasting construction
Develops a unique patina over time
Easy to clean and maintain
Multiple compartments for organized packing
Suitable for weekend trips and overnight stays

Weekender Leather Weekend Bag

Weekender

Best for a luxurious weekend getaway with your partner, the Weekender Leather Bag is spacious, stylish, and effortlessly chic.

Weekender Travel Bag for Women Product Highlights:

ProductWeekender Travel Bag for Women
MaterialFull Grain Leather - Certified Vegetable Tanned
Laptop Sizeup to 16 inch
LiningDurable Cotton Canvas
ZippersYKK Zippers - Italian-Made
Handmade?Handmade in Florence, Italy
StrapsDetachable and Adjustable Shoulder Strap
Carry-on Compliant?Yes
Width55 cm (22 in)
Height30 cm (12 in)
Depth23.5 cm (9 in)
Weight1.9 kg (0.9 lbs)
Personalization?Custom Laser Engraving

Watch the Weekender product video below:

Browse more images of the Weekender:

Our review:

"This magnificent unisex travel bag is designed to appeal to men and women alike. It enables you to transport all your holiday essentials with ease and is made in Italy by highly skilled craftsmen. The bag is carry on-compliant, which makes it perfect for travel whether you're heading out on holiday or going away on business. The bag comes with smooth and sturdy handles which make carrying a breeze. There is also an adjustable leather strap. The bag also comes complete with inner pockets that will help you keep everything nice and organised. Other features include a tough YKK zipper and strong cotton canvas lining."
Pros Cons
Made of full grain leather May have a slightly higher cost compared to other materials
Stylish and sophisticated design Not completely waterproof
Ample storage space for essentials Not ideal for extremely heavy items
Comfortable to carry and handle
Durable and long-lasting construction
Develops a unique patina over time
Easy to clean and maintain
Multiple compartments for organized packing
Suitable for weekend trips and overnight stays

Grand Leather Garment Bag

Grand Leather Garment Bag

Best for business travelers who want to arrive in style with wrinkle-free clothing, the Grand Leather Garment Bag is a must-have.

MaterialCertified Italian Vegetable-Tanned Full-Grain Leather
Garment Duffel BagCarry your suit in style and without creases
Interior LiningDurable Italian Cotton Lining
Zipper QualityJapanese YKK Zipper
Carry-On CompliantMeets airline size standards for carry-on luggage
OriginMade in Florence, Italy
SustainabilitySupports local communities and eco-friendly
CapacityCan fit 2-3 suits, shirts, shoes, accessories, and a laptop
Suit CarrierAttached to the travel bag
PersonalizedIt can be personalized with a custom laser engraving

Watch the Grand product video below:

Browse more images of the Grand:

Our review:

"This beautiful unisex bag for travel has been designed with longevity in mind. The bag comes complete with a tough YKK zipper and boasts outstanding cotton lining. This popular bag is as spacious as it is functional, giving you enough space to carry outfits, laptops and more. What's more is that the bag is compliant with carry-on rules. Get your most treasured goods from the airport to the hotel in style with our highly elegant and dependable unisex travel bag. The bag has been manufactured by leading Italian craftsmen and is as sophisticated as it is reliable. Take a closer look today."
Pros Cons
Made of full grain leather May have a slightly higher cost compared to other materials
Stylish and elegant design Not completely waterproof
Ample storage space for clothes and accessories
Comfortable to carry and handle
Durable and long-lasting construction
Develops a unique patina over time
Features hanger hooks for easy storage of garments
Zippered compartments to keep clothes secure during transport

Grand Leather Garment Bag

Grand Leather Garment Bag

Best for business trips with a touch of luxury. The Grand Leather Garment Bag keeps your clothes wrinkle-free and stylishly organized.

MaterialCertified Italian Vegetable-Tanned Full-Grain Leather
Garment Duffel BagCarry your suit/dress in style and without creases
Interior LiningDurable Italian Cotton Lining
Zipper QualityJapanese YKK Zipper
Carry-On CompliantMeets airline size standards for carry-on luggage
OriginMade in Florence, Italy
SustainabilitySupports local communities and eco-friendly
CapacityCan fit 2-3 suits, shirts, shoes, accessories, and a laptop
Suit CarrierAttached to the travel bag
PersonalizedIt can be personalized with a custom laser engraving

Watch the Grand product video below:

Browse more images of the Grand:

Our review:

"If you've been looking for a market-leading unisex bag for travel that will serve you well for many business trips or holidays to come, this option could be perfect for you. The bag is made from premium grade Italian full-grain leather by expert craftsmen and comes complete with reliable handles and an adjustable shoulder strap. Key features of this remarkable unisex travel bag include the YKK zipper and tough cotton canvas lining. The bag appeals to men and women alike and enables you to carry suits and dresses without creasing them. Take a closer look at this high-selling bag today."
Pros Cons
Made of full grain leather May have a slightly higher cost compared to other materials
Stylish and elegant design Not completely waterproof
Ample storage space for clothes and accessories
Comfortable to carry and handle
Durable and long-lasting construction
Develops a unique patina over time
Features hanger hooks for easy storage of garments
Zippered compartments to keep clothes secure during transport

Elegance Leather Tote Bag

Elegance Tote Bag

Best for business trips with a touch of sophistication. The Elegance Leather Tote Bag is perfect for carrying your laptop and documents in style.

Elegance Tote Bag Product Highlights:

Material OriginCertified Italian vegetable-tanned leather from Tuscany
Laptop SleeveSpecifically designed slot for up to a 14" laptop
Interior QualityRobust Italian cotton canvas lining, pleasant to touch
Zipper DurabilityRenowned Japanese YKK zippers ensuring longevity
CraftsmanshipHandcrafted in family-owned studios in Florence, Italy
Sustainability CommitmentSupports traditional craftsmanship and eco-friendly practices
Leather TreatmentLeather treated with sustainable methods, ensuring quality and origin
Wear ResistanceDesigned for frequent use without excessive wear and tear
Handle StrengthHandles crafted to carry laptops, documents, and books securely

Watch the Elegance product video below:

Browse more images of the Elegance:

Our review:

"Have you been searching online for a reliable, long-lasting unisex bag for travel? If so, this could be the perfect solution. The bag has been designed to support you through trip after trip and gives you a great deal of capacity for all your travel essentials. This high-selling bag is made from elegant Italian full-grain leather and can be carried by hand or over the shoulder thanks to the robust leather straps. Key features of the bag include the zipped pocket for smaller items, three pen slots, a YKK zipper and cotton lining. The bag offers a great deal of longevity and should last for many holidays or business trips before it needs to be replaced."
Pros Cons
Made of full grain leather Price point may be considered a worthwhile investment
Durable and long-lasting Weight adds to its overall quality and strength
Spacious and versatile Proper care and maintenance will ensure its longevity
Suitable for both professional and casual use
Multiple compartments for organized storage
Stylish design

How to Choose a Travel Duffel Bag

Size and Capacity

Size and capacity are very important things to think about when you want to purchase a duffel bag.

If you’re planning on travelling by plane with your duffel bag, make sure it complies with the requirements of the airline I question. If the bag is small enough, you’ll always have your personal belongings to hand and you won’t need to check your bag into the hold.

Small duffel bags tend to provide you with 25 to 50 liters of space. The vast majority of them meet the requirements of most US airlines. Smaller duffer bags are also great for weekends away as well as those that like to travel alone. If you do want to carry more and are happy to check your luggage in, you could consider opting for a 50 to 75-liter capacity bag. Perhaps you need to carry even more with you? If so, it could be wise to opt for a large duffel bag that comes with at least 75 liters of space. You may need to pay baggage fees if your bag weighs over 50 lbs, but you can transport hefty goods inside these bags, including fishing equipment and tents.

Weight

Weight is another thing you need to consider when you’re thinking about buying a duffel bag. It’s important to remember that a wheeled model can be much heavier than a duffel without wheels. Duffels with wheels can take up 20% of your 50lb luggage allowance before you have even added any goods to them. It can be somewhat tiring to carry a heavy duffel bag around with you, so think about whether you’ll be happy to carry such a heavy bag up and down stairs or over a long distance.

Carrying options

There are many different options available to you when it comes to the way you can carry a duffel bag. Let’s look at some of the most popular strap styles on the market right now.

Backpack-esque straps

If you’re the kind of person that prefers to throw your bag onto your back and don’t need to get inside it too regularly, you may wish to look for a bag with removable backpack straps that come with light padding for extra comfort.

Shoulder-esque straps

Perhaps you need to access the contents of your bag regularly during travel and will only be travelling for short distances? If so, a shoulder strap might be best for you. Many of the duffel bags on the market today come with removable shoulder straps.

Your handle options

All kinds of duffel bags come with some sort of handle, whether they have wheels or not. Read on to find out more about some of the most common types of handles found on duffel bags.

Carry handles often come in the form of simple padded handles that connect the backpack straps. Your bag may come with a pair of dedicated handles, or it may have a single one. These handles can be very efficient when it comes to helping you transport your luggage.

Grab handles are also found on some duffel bags. They may be found on either end of your bag or on the sides. The purpose of grab handles is to allow you to get hold of your bag quickly. This functionality can be very useful when you’re placing your bag inside a vehicle or putting it in an overhead bin.

Access, pockets and organization options

One of the main purposes of a duffel bag is to allow you to enjoy adventures. This is why it's so important to opt for something that allows you to transport everything that you need as you travel. The vast majority of duffel bags come complete with useful internal storage pockets. This can keep your smaller possessions safe and make it easy for you to access them when required.

External pockets are great for transporting items that you might need access to during travel. These might include your headphones, passport or cellphone. If you’re buying a particularly expensive duffel bag, it could come with expendable external pockets. You can use these to separate dirty clothes and footwear from your other luggage. Daisy chains or lash points as they are also known can make things much easier when you’re placing your bag on a roof rack.

Should I get a duffel bag with wheels or not?

If you do purchase a duffel bag with wheels, this will be much easier to transport around the airport and move in and out of vehicles like boats, trains, and cars. These bags tend to have one major compartment that you can use to hold your belongings and are great for sporting activities and camping trips.

If you like to travel and want to explore new territories, a bag without wheels could be right for you. A duffel bag with wheels could be difficult to transport over unstable, rugged surfaces and there’s a risk that your belongings could fall out of the bag.

Related:

Is a duffel bag a good option for carry-on luggage?

Whether a duffel bag is suitable for carry-on luggage can depend on your own personal preferences. If you don’t have an issue with carrying your bag over your shoulder as you make your way through the airport, a duffel bag could be a great match for your needs. The vast majority of duffels have numerous straps and handles that make it easy for you to add and remove them from overhead compartments. Just make sure your duffel bag meets the requirements of your airline. Many people prefer to use duffel bags for road trips as opposed to plane travel. This is because they prefer to use bags that roll behind them when they are traveling by air.

What size duffel bag should I purchase?

If you want to carry your duffel bag on a plane with you, ensure it meets the airline’s dimension requirements. A 40-liter duffel bag will normally suffice even for a long weekend away. If you’re heading away from home for longer, you may need at least 50 liters of space.

Related:

What’s the biggest duffel bag I can take on a plane?

The vast majority of airlines expect a carry-on duffel bag to be no bigger than 45 liters.

What is the difference between duffle and duffel?

Duffle is a corruption of the original word ‘duffel’. Both spellings are still used today, though duffel has been used much more commonly since WWII.

Conclusion

We hope you enjoyed our article on the best travel duffel bags for 2023.

If you have any questions, leave them in the comments, or email Von Baer at info@vonbaer.com.

Browse related articles on travel here.

Author: Albert Varkki

Albert Varkki is the co-founder of Von Baer. He understands leather products as a consumer, supplier, and a manufacturer, helping you with the inside knowledge you need, to choose the perfect leather product for you.

We always aim to have the highest editorial standards, and only publish accurate information on our website.

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