60 litre travel bag

Best 60L Backpacks (for Travel and Hiking)

• Post author: Kieren
• Post last modified: July 16, 2021
• Post category: Pack

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There are so many backpacks available and online marketplaces such as Amazon as flooded with cheap packs that don’t stand the test of time and in the long run end up costing more.

That’s where I’m here to help. I’ve now spent over a month reviewing backpacks for my series of guides where I share the best backpacks for each volume bracket, todays it’s the turn of the 60 – 65L backpacks and I’ve got some great products to share with you.

Quick Summary

Is a 60l backpack right for you, best 60l backpacks.

Before we get into the full list, I’ll just run through a few scenarios where a 60L backpack might come in handy.

• Travelling to colder regions: If you’re travelling across multiple regions or just visiting colder climates, this is an ideal size to ensure you can fit in the warmer layers you need. You may want to look for a backpack for clips for things like big coats on the outside.
• Travelling to warmer climates with extra equipment: If you are only visiting warmer climates, but also have big bulky items such as sleeping bags or tents, then this is also a good size. However, for most people visiting warmer destinations and staying in hostels or hotels, then I would probably opt for a smaller pack.
• Multi-day hiking: This size is ideal for multi-day hiking and trekking trips where you’ll be on the trail for around 5 days and need to carry all your essential clothing, equipment and food. If you are carrying everything yourself then maybe a slight size upgrade will be required, but for the most part, 60L is okay.

Here is a helpful infographic I created to show which size backpack is best. Obviously, everyone’s needs will be different and if you are able to share the essentials between more people this will require less volume than if you are carrying everything yourself.

These are the best 60L backpacks currently on the market:

• Best for Travel: Deuter Aviant Access Pro 60L

Runner Up for Travel: Osprey Porter 65

Best for hiking: osprey atmos 65 ag.

• Runner Up for Hiking: Kelty Coyote 65L
• Best under £100: Berghaus Trailhead 65L
• Best Backpack with Wheels: Osprey Sojourn 60L

Runner Up with Wheels: Deuter Helion 60

Here are my full reviews of the top 60L backpacks with pros and cons of each.

I have split them down in to travel, hiking, budget and backpack with wheels. If you’re looking for a great all rounder that could function well in most situations, I’d draw your attention to the Kelty Coyote.

Best for Travel: Deuter Aviant Access Pro 60

With a large front opening compartment and a removable day pack, this new backpack from Deuter has everything you need from a travel bag.

✓ Breathable back panel and easily adjusted torso

✓ Removable day pack

✓ Comfortable and breathable back system

✗ Quite pricey due to being a brand-new release

The Deuter Aviant Access Pro 60 is a newly released backpack but shoots straight to our number one position as best 60L travel backpack.

It features a breathable back panel with mesh padding and the torso is super easy to adjust as seen on some other Deuter packs. All of the straps can be zipped away neatly for checking in at airports.

Wide zip opening with lots of separate organisational compartment including section or dirty washing

It features a day pack that tucks nicely into a large front pocket, this can be used as another storage compartment or you can keep it as a daypack.

What I like about this bag compared to other bags with day packs is that the main compartment is still large enough to fit all your essentials in and once you remove the day pack, the pocket that it was in can still be useful for storing coats, jackets or other items that don’t need to be zipped away.

A classic front loading backpack from Osprey that’s simple and made with travel in mind.

*Doesn’t seem to be available in Europe right now*

✓ Simple and functional backpack with option to connect day pack

✓ Padded and lockable laptop sleeve

✓ Durable material and quality build as expected from Osprey

✗ Not as advanced as some Osprey packs in terms of ventilation and weight distribution

The Osprey Porter has been on the scene for a while so it’s a popular backpack, but for reasons unbeknown to me, it’s only available in the US.

The bag doesn’t have the bells and whistles that some Osprey pack have, but it also doesn’t have the price tag. It’s a lightweight, front loading pack that opens like a suitcase and has plenty of room inside. The straight jacket style compression system will keep everything nice and compact. The design is sleek and for a 60L backpack it doesn’t seem to obstructive.

Unlike its smaller sibling, the Osprey Porter 30, it has a lower compartment which would normally be allocated for a sleeping bag but if you’re not camping it can be a handy additional storage compartment.

It does feature a laptop compartment which isn’t in the main organisational compartment but sits against your back and is lockable for safe keeping.

The pack is Daylite compatible, this means you can purchase Osprey’s Daylite day pack and it will connect to the reinforced loops on the front for easy carrying.

Easily my number one 60L backpack for hikers due to the anti gravity system which spreads the weight through your hips so well that the pack genuinely feels lighter.

✓ Anti-gravity suspension system

✓ Lots of features that are great for hiking.

✓ T rekking pole holders, water compartments accessible from front and included rain cover

✓ Thick 630D Nylon material

✗ Hip belt pockets are awkwardly placed

✗ Expensive

✗ Few toilets between lots of dorms

The AG in Osprey 65 AG stands for anti-gravity and refers to the packs best feature, it’s trampoline mesh style back panel and waist belt. It hugs your waist to spread the load in a three-dimensional way and it really does reduce the feel of weight on yo9ur bag.

The shoulder straps are also made of a similar material and are really comfortable to wear. It also has a sternum and plenty of carabiner clips on the straps.

The pack comes in three different sizes and is adjustable, so you’ll be able to get the perfect fit. This size is easily enough to carry all your gear for a 3-day camping or trekking trip and with the anti gravity system it will feel like you’re only carrying half that.

Comes with an included rain cover stored in the lid. The front of the pack has a generous pocket for items to have conveniently accessible.

As you’d expect with osprey, they are chunky and durable YKK zips. I’ve had my Osprey for years and never had any issues with the zips. It has compression straps and plenty of places to hang additional items.

It also has a quick release trekking pole clip that stores the poles very conveniently so you can get them without taking the pack off, ideal for long trekking trips.

The side pockets are accessible from both the top and front which is handy for grabbing water quickly whilst hiking. It’s also hydration compatible if you prefer that.

Bottom compartment that has a divider so you can remove it if necessary, this is a feature I’ve now come to expect from all backpacks of this quality.

Runner Up for Travel: Kelty Coyote 65 L

With so many great features designed with hikers in mind, this is a deserving runner up that you should consider. It could also double up for travel if you plan to do lots of trekking along the way.

✓ Signature Kelty wing pockets which also allow items to stow behind such as tent and trekking poles

✓ Ventilated back panel

✓ Top pocket doubles as a sling bag for a day pack

✗ No rain cover

✗ Weight distribution not quite as good as the Atmos

Although this is the newest size option in the long-standing Coyote series, it’s fast become one of their most popular as it’s ideally sized for those 3-5 day backpacking trips in the countryside.

It’s made with their usual quality and the tough 420d Polyester fabric ensures durability.

It’s comfortable to wear with their fit-pro system for super easy torso adjustment and a ventilated back panel with mesh material to keep you from getting sweaty during treks. The pack also does a good job of spreading the weight to your hips, but I can’t put it in the same league as the Osprey Atmos for this.

As you’d expect, the pack features the signature Kelty wing side pockets, I love these because they are a decent size and you can slide larger items between the wings and the main pack which is perfect for storing tent or trekking poles.

Other features on this backpack include:

• Hydration sleeve compatible
• Both top and front access to the main compartment which can be used for easy access to items in the middle and bottom of the pack
• Top pocket doubles up as a sling bag for using when the full backpack is too much
• Bottom compartment with removeable divider
• Lots of other mesh pockets and hidden compartments for storing items

It’s unfortunate that such a feature filled backpack doesn’t have a rain cover, but you can purchase one separately. Overall, this is a well designer and well thought through pack with the needs of multiday hiking covered.

Best Under £100: Berghaus Trailhead 65

Comes with an impressive set of features for a sub £100 backpack. Comfortable hip belt and lots of storage inside, but not as good as the previous packs for ventilation against your back.

✓ Plenty of room with lots of pockets for organisation

✓ Adjustable Biofit torso system that’s super simple

✓ Curved hip belt is comfortable on your waist

✗ Quite heavy at 1.76kg

✗ Back ventilation system lacking compared to more expensive backpacks

✗ Narrow main compartment can be hard to pack and unpack

For a reasonable price under £100 with a standout feature being the curved hip belt. This is well designed so that it fits nicely against your hips but doesn’t restrict movement as you walk.

There is an adjustable torso using Berghaus’ Biofit system which combined with the load lifters and adjrnum will allow you to get a really comfortable fit.

Whilst there is some airflow from the back panel, it’s not in the same class as the previous hiking backpacks I’ve mentioned and there is no mesh padding either. You should expect to get quite a sweaty back if spending long periods hiking with this.

It features tons of storage options with pockets on the sides, mesh water bottle pockets, trekking pole clips and lid pockets. It is also hydration system compatible and comes with a rain cover so you get a lot of bang for your buck.

Bottom compartment for sleeping bag or wet clothes, or the divider can be removed for a single large compartment with top and bottom access.

Watch out if you have the bottom compartment separated as tall narrow pack can make it difficult to find items inside. I always prefer shorter and wider packs, but this comes down to personal preference.

Best with Wheels: Osprey Sojourn 60

If you need a 60L bag that functions well as rolling luggage but also has exceptional performance as a backpack, this is the one for you.

✓ Suspended back system inspired by Osprey’s leading anti-gravity system

✓ Stowable and removable shoulder straps

✓ Thick durable material

✗ More expensive than other wheeled backpacks

✗ No laptop sleeve

✗ Takes a few adjustments to convert

I have included two outstanding choices for 60L backpacks with wheels. The Osprey is my personal favourite because it’s functionality as a backpack is particularly good with a mesh suspension system and comfy shoulder straps.

This dual-purpose bag works well as both a backpack and wheel luggage making it suitable for multiple occasions.

As wheeled luggage, it has a decent dual telescopic handle and tall wheels. The structure of the bag is strong with an extremely thick 1680 Nylon fabric.

When you want to use it as a backpack, it does take a bit of adjusting to attach the shoulder straps and load lifters at the top into the correct position, but once done it functions extremely well.

The back system is a trampoline mesh style with a suspended pack where the pack doesn’t sit directly on your back allowing better circulation of air and weight distribution.

Although the backpack has a heavier frame than many of their other packs so that it functions well on wheels, it’s hardly noticeable once on your back.

The backpack has a decent sized interior and a front loading opening as with most Osprey packs made for travel.

It has the straight jacket style flaps to compress it once full and keep it secure. Unfortunately, it is missing any laptop sleeve so this could be an issue if you’re a business traveller or digital nomad like myself.

The Deuter Helion functions best when used on wheels but is also capable of being a backpack when needed and can be very useful for family outings.

✓ Telescopic dual handle that will rival any suitcase

✓ Large wheels for use on all sorts of terrains

✓ Massive interior

✗ No load lifters

This spacious bag works best as wheeled bag, with a strong dual handle and decent sized wheels that can be easily replaced when word.

It is front loading and stands up well no matter which side it is on, even when upright. The main material is a decent 420d material with super thick 1000D on the base, all of which seems very weather resistant.

Inside you’ll find one large compartment, if you’re the type of person that uses packing cubes then this is ideal as inside is just one huge compartment.

As a backpack it has a cushioned back panel and plenty of padding on the shoulders and hip belt so it’s reasonably comfortable to carry, although for long stints of backpacking you should probably opt for the Osprey.

It has a sternum strap, hip belt and easily accessible pockets although lacks load lifters for adjusting where the gravity of the pack lies. If wheels are your go-to carry method, but you also need backpack functionality then this will fi the job.

Which 60L Backpack with a Day Pack Should I Choose?

Most of the backpacks here have a day pack or are compatible with one. For travel, my main recommendation of the Deuter Aviant Access Pro 60 comes with an excellent day pack integration and when you’re using the day pack, the pocket it was in can still be used for more items.

For hiking, unfortunately the Atmos line of packs aren’t compatible with Ospreys day lite pack so I’d recommend the Kelty Coyote which has a built-in day bag as the lid can be removed and used as a sling bag.

Will a 60L backpack fit as hand luggage?

No, a 60L won’t fit as hand luggage on any flight. The maximum size backpack we’ve seen that would go on a plane was in the 45L range although I think you could get away with slightly larger if you’re discreet. You will need to check in a 60L backpack to the hold.

When is 60L too big?

For outdoor adventure, a 60L backpack is most likely going to be too big for single day hikes or shorter trips in the region of 1-2 days. For travel, a 60L backpack will be overkill if you are only visiting hot climates, you could easily slim down to a 40L and this would have the bonus of fitting as hand luggage.

View more backpack guides:

I hope you’ve found this guide useful, if you spot any backpacks that you think I’ve missed, please feel free to contact me! Happy travels!

Price key: £ = Under £100, ££ = £100-£150, £££ = £150-200

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The Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

Whether weekend road-tripping or jet-setting around the world, you’re going to need a pack to toss over your shoulder. Here are the best travel backpacks for every adventure.

There are a lot of great travel backpacks out there, but not all of them are created equal. A travel pack needs to be comfortable to carry, easy to organize, and durable enough to withstand being toted from place to place.

From hitting the road for the weekend to spending months traveling abroad, we’ve put nearly 30 different travel backpacks through the wringer. We tallied our airline miles, punched our tickets, and put our tray tables in the upright and locked position for close to half a decade now, taking domestic and international flights to as far as Iceland and as close as 30-minute island hops. And while there isn’t a single pack that suits every traveler, we’ve highlighted a variety of designs and price points to help you find the perfect travel backpack.

Choosing a travel backpack can be a dizzying experience, and we’ve shaken down the best to sort through the static. Each pack has seen its time on the baggage carousel, hostel luggage cart, and we’ve even had a few go missing for the full experience. We fully pack and live out of these bags to test them, and in the end, we’re confident that the 15 packs collected here are the best travel backpacks available today. Check in and check them out.

For all your travel pack questions, consult our buyer’s guide , where we’ve laid bare all the essentials. Compare each of the packs using our handy comparison chart , and if you’ve still got questions, check out our FAQ section.

Editor’s Note: We updated our travel backpack guide on March 20, 2024 to add the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L — a supremely nice commuter-style travel pack, as well as the Thule Aion 40L and Osprey Archeon 30L .

• Best Overall Travel Backpack: Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L
• Best Budget Travel Backpack: Dakine Campus 33L Backpack
• Best Carrying Travel Backpack: Osprey Farpoint & Fairview 40 Travel Packs
• Best Organization in a Travel Backpack: Matador SEG45 Travel Pack
• Best Shoulder Bag: Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L
• Best Commuter-Style Travel Backpack: Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L
• Best Personal Item Travel Pack: TimBuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

• Capacity 45 L (collapses to 35 L)
• Weight 4 lbs., 8 oz.
• Dimensions 22" x 13" x 9.5" standard, 22" x 13" x 11" expanded
• Compartment access Back panel clamshell design with #10 zipper
• Material Weatherproof, 100% recycled 400-denier nylon canvas shell; 900-denier waterproof bottom

• Compresses down to maximum airline carry-on size, and then expands once you’ve hit your destination
• Burly construction
• No details are overlooked in the design
• Side-carry handles are offset in an awkward position

Perfect is a dirty word in product design, but we’re about stumped when it comes to drumming up a quibble about the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45 L ($300). This redeye-ready clamshell design is made to the highest of standards.

It’s made of quality materials, utilizing aluminum hardware and a burly 400-denier nylon canvas — and it easily ticks all our boxes for the best overall travel backpack. The interior of the bag is split into two compartments: a larger main area for storing the majority of your kit and a secondary sleeve at the front of the bag with five zippered pockets. The main pocket also sports a foam-padded laptop sleeve and three more pockets.

One of the more impressive aspects we discovered along the bag’s inaugural leg from Seattle to Anchorage was how easily the straps of the Travel Backpack stow away into the bag. Two foam panels on the back of the bag flip away to secure them and then close with a magnetic closure — very slick. This was our favorite strap-stowage system, with the zippered panels of the Matador GlobeRider45 coming in a close second. We find the Peak Design bag compresses smaller.

Then there are the little details. An ID-size sleeve on the back panel provides all the information should your bag get separated from you. Zipper pulls thread through one another to keep what’s yours safe. And a collapsible system adjusts the bag from a full 45 to 35 liters.

In our review, there’s little about the Peak Design pack that misses the mark. The company leans heavily toward the camera-toting travelers among us, but the 45 L Travel Backpack makes no compromises and works just as well for any user group. The high price is undeniable, but for the scope of the travel pack, it’s a buy-once-cry-once purchase we would make again.

Also available in a 30L size , the range of Travel Backpacks from Peak Design is so well-thought-out that you can practically see the cogs turning in their creators’ heads. We think they make the best travel backpacks on the market.

Dakine Campus 33L Backpack

• Capacity 33 L
• Weight 1 lb., 10.6 oz.
• Dimensions 20.5" x 13" x 8"
• Compartment access Zippered top access
• Material Depending on print type, can be 600-denier recycled polyester, 420-denier recycled nylon, 630-denier recycled nylon, or 1,200-denier recycled polyester

• Cheap price
• Available in many different fabric prints
• Unique insulated cooler pocket
• Not many travel-specific features
• Straps don’t pack away

Even at the regular price, the Dakine Campus 33L Backpack ($75) is a great deal. And considering you can grab one on sale for $45, it’s a must-have budget travel backpack.

It has everything you need to keep your travels organized, without getting too big or complicated. This design has a padded laptop sleeve and a fleece-lined top pocket to keep your sunglasses safe. There’s an organizer pocket that’s perfect for pens, a phone, and easy-access essentials. We love pockets, and this backpack has plenty.

And if that weren’t enough, it also has an insulated cooler pocket to keep your snacks fresh on the go, plus double side pockets keep drinks handy. We found the straps comfortable during long travel days. Be sure to use the sternum strap when carrying a heavy load for the best fit.

While this bag does excellent at travel, it isn’t quite what the bag was designed for, thus it’s missing a few travel niceties like a compression system or the ability to pack away the straps. We didn’t find that we missed them desperately, but they would have been nice for a few instances. For similar-sized backpacks with more of a travel bend to them, look to the sleek Timbuk2 Never Check, or the uber-customizable Tom Bihn Synapse 25. But prepare to shell out some more for them.

If you’re looking for a sub-$100 backpack (under $60 during sales!) that does the basics, then the Dakine Campus Backpack is for you. It comes in a variety of colors and is also available in a 25L capacity .

Osprey Farpoint & Fairview 40 Travel Packs

• Capacity 40 L
• Weight 3 lbs., 7.6 oz.
• Dimensions 22" x 14" x 9"
• Compartment access Zippered back panel clamshell design
• Material Bluesign-approved 450-denier recycled polyester

• Supreme suspension system offers the best carry of any pack we tried
• External compression straps limit the volume well
• Comfortably padded grab handles
• Not much internal organization

No stranger to producing supremely comfortable suspension systems, Osprey injected a good bit of its tech into the Farpoint and Fairview packs ($185), which both sport LightWire frames, load lifters, and breathable framesheet and suspension straps. Our Farpoint pack was easily the best load carrier of any we tested and a close contender for the best travel backpack overall.

Far beyond what any of the other travel packs offer, the pack even allows you to adjust the torso length — unheard of in the typical travel pack. Newly updated, these packs have been tweaked to ride the line between traditional backpacks and functional luggage, a claim we can substantiate.

The 40-liter capacity is just about the sweet spot for domestic carry-on luggage limits, and these packs make good use of the space. We could easily pack away a long weekend’s worth of travel essentials into the bag with a little space to spare.

Whereas many other travel packs stash straps away into the body of the pack, the Farpoint and Fairview move in the opposite direction with a deployable strap cover that neatly seals in the suspension for safekeeping when checked. This produces a clean profile that’s ready to be slung around, but it’s not quite as easy and quick as the magnetic panels of the Peak Design Travel Backpacks, as you need to unclip straps to tuck them away.

The interior of the pack is rather spartan, incorporating only one zippered pocket, a laptop sleeve, and two internal compression straps. We would have rather seen a bit more organizational features involved like those that the Matador GlobeRider and Topo Designs Global Travel bags incorporate, but for those who stuff more than pack, the Farpoint and  Fairview may very well punch the ticket.

With one foot on the platform and one on the trail, these packs from Osprey will get you where you’re going and carry a trip’s worth of kit with ease.

Matador SEG45 Travel Pack

• Capacity 45 L
• Weight 2 lbs., 8 oz.
• Dimensions 22" x 13.4" x 10.2"
• Compartment access Full clamshell interior, additional front zippered access
• Material 420-denier nylon exterior, 100-denier Robic Dynatec interior

• Excellent storage organization options
• High-quality, strong, and lightweight construction
• No frame to speak of
• Shoulder straps don’t pack away

Aiming to do more with less, the Matador SEG45 Segmented Backpack ($200) proposes a future free of packing cubes and splits up the bag for you, making the organization of your travel pack a breeze.

The full 45 liters of volume is shared among the five segments (6, 9, 15, 9, and 6 L) and trades volume between the full clamshell compartment and the segments. Each of these segments is accessible via its own water-resistant zippers and can be collapsed as your needs change.

We found organizing by clothing type made the most sense in our own packing, but you could even pack based on the day of the week or the use. The clamshell-accessed main compartment was ideal for holding larger items like spare shoes or quarantining spent outfits.

Known for its overbuilt but lightweight bags, Matador didn’t spare the SEG45, utilizing 420D UHMWPE-reinforced nylon in the pack body, as well as 100D Robic Dynatec weave on the interior. It should be noted that this travel backpack doesn’t have any kind of frame and will rely on being packed well to carry correctly. Because of this, this pack won’t carry as well as bags like the Osprey Farpoint/Fairview, so consider packing mostly clothing in the SEG45.

Our testers felt this bag excelled as a travel bag you might deploy once you’ve hit your destination, as it packs away into larger bags so well. Unfortunately, however, the shoulder straps don’t pack away into the bag itself, so you’ll have to wrangle them into place to keep things tidy.

No matter what you’re up to, everything has got a spot to live in the SEG45 . Need a bit less space? Matador offers the SEG28 ($250) for that.

Read Review: Dresser in a Backpack: Matador SEG42 Review

Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L

• Weight 3 lbs., 10.3 oz.
• Dimensions 22.8" x 8.6" x 14.5"
• Compartment access Back panel zippered clamshell design
• Material 900-denier recycled polyester ripstop with a TPU laminate

• Multiple ways to carry the pack
• Many different storage and internal organization options
• Burly external fabric
• Doesn’t carry the best as a backpack

Looking to squeeze out every last liter of allowed space? Patagonia named this pack in honor of the cause: the Patagonia Black Hole Maximum Legal Carry-On 45 L ($239). This bag can be carried in a number of different ways, but we found it shined during travel as a shoulder bag.

Borrowing fabric from Patagonia’s line of burly Black Hole Duffels , the MLC 45 is made for the long haul. The 900-denier polyester ripstop is coated in a TPU laminate and feels ready to take on the surliest baggage carrier. We certainly felt no remorse in tossing the bag around.

At 45 L, the MLC is certainly right at the cusp of the maximum allowed size, but thankfully that space is well divided up inside the pack. Inside the main clamshell-accessed compartment is a blizzard of zippers and mesh pockets and dividers. Anything we tossed inside was well-stabilized.

Because there isn’t much of a frame to speak of, the Black Hole MLC doesn’t carry the best when slung over both shoulders and can sag when not entirely full. But over a shoulder with the included shoulder strap, this pack feels great and can be easily accessed on the go. This is one of the only packs in our testing to feature a shoulder strap (the other being the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag).

On top of all this, we greatly appreciate that the Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45 L is made with 100% recycled body fabric, lining, and webbing. Perfect for grabbing and going, this pack is ready to move.

Read Review: Patagonia Black Hole MLC Bag Review: An Organized, Carry-On-Size Wonder

Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L

• Capacity 24 L
• Weight 3 lbs., 1.6 oz.
• Dimensions 18" x 7: x 11.5"
• Compartment access Zippered clamshell
• Material 840D ballistic nylon 6, 420D HT nylon

• Functions as both a laptop backpack and suitcase
• Well-structured and protected
• Full panel loading access
• Limited colorways

With an understated look that betrays the truly impressive fit and functionality inside, the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L ($279) doesn’t need to brag — it knows it’ll tote your kit through the worst of your travel or everyday commutes without missing a beat. This bag is our newly anointed best commuter-style travel backpack.

From a fabrics and materials standpoint, it’s clear that someone at Evergoods truly nerded out when they brewed up this bindle. The 840D ballistic nylon 6 that makes up the exterior of the pack is burly (errantly spilled coffee wipes right off), and compliments the thick #10 zippers and spacer-mesh back panel. Even the Evergoods logo is low-key: a simple 2×2” patch on the front of the bag with a slash. That’s it — and we dig it.

Bar none, the Civic Panel Loader has the best laptop sleeve we’ve ever encountered in a backpack, and that’s saying something. The side-accessed zippered aperture can hold a 17” Macbook Pro, and nestles into a fully padded space at the rear of the pack. This sleeve is suspended from the bottom of the bag, as we’ve seen in many forward-thinking bags, but goes a step further and protects the laptop from the side with an aluminum stay — the primary functionality of which is to support the side handle on the bag. Genius.

The high-polish finish on the CPL24 feels reminiscent of the attention to detail we loved about the Tom Bihn Synapse 25, but we ended up enjoying this pack even more for a simple reason: side carry. The broad handle on the side of the pack is reinforced by that aluminum stay, and it creates a perfectly supported carry for jostling through crowded terminals.

On the interior of the pack, two large pockets are subdivided with a few smaller sleeves and pockets, which are oriented to be accessed with the bag on its side. We carried this pack for a month straight of remote work, lugging it to coffee shops and co-working spaces, and it supplanted all other packs we’ve used previously. “It’s hard not to love a pack that makes your life easier,” says Senior Editor Nick Belcaster. “This pack does that. Laptop, headphones, notebooks — a whole lot goes into the pack without a care.”

Up there with Nomatic, GORUCK, and Tom Bihn, Evergoods is certainly among the pack-makers that put intelligent design and smart material choice above all else. The Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L is the final word when it comes to a travel pack you can carry every day. We certainly do.

Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack

• Capacity 27.5 L
• Weight 2 lbs., 9 oz.
• Dimensions 18.9" x 11.4" x 5.9"
• Material 420x2000D Cordura nylon, 135D polyester

• Dang good looking
• High-quality trim and details, including anodized G hooks and supple webbing
• Supper cushioned back panel
• Exterior expandable water bottle pocket is a bit slim
• Pack straps don't stow away.

Pulling off a good expandable backpack can be a tough task, with fabric accordion folds often taking up valuable real estate on the interior when collapsed in lesser bags. Not so with the TimBuk2 Never Check ($209), which takes a simple backpack shape and elevates it with premium materials and design to create one of our favorite travel backpacks for tucking under an airliner seat.

Unlike a lot of the pure-function rectangular bags in our lineup, the Never Check is a real looker — easily one of the best styled in our testing so far, and we’d have no qualms about bringing it along as a business bag. Small details like rubber-covered zipper pulls, anodized G hooks, and supple webbing keep it looking sharp. The 27.5-liter size is just about dead-on for most airline ‘personal item’ size requirements, and this bag easily slides under a seat.

The main compartment is accessed through a clamshell zipper on the front of the bag, which is gusseted to hang open while you’re loading it up. During the few national and international flights our Senior Editor Nick Belcaster deployed the bag on, this was easily enough space for everything you might want during a plane ride. And for everything else, a front pocket is lined with multiple drop and zip pockets for organizing small gadgets like chargers or keys.

The back panel of the Never Check is a plush ½ inch of comfortable foam, and combined with the equally padded shoulder straps made for a very nice carrying bag. The straps unfortunately do not stow away, but on a lower volume pack such as this, it’s a much less useable feature in our opinions.  And finally, one of our favorite features: the wide laptop sleeve. This 15” opening is generous enough to accommodate the larger laptops of today, and is suspended from the bottom of the backpack to ensure bumps don’t turn into bruises.

Just like the name suggests, the Never Check Expandable Backpack provides a svelte solution to bringing a bag with you during airline travel — or even just to the office. Its clean profile and attention to detail impressed us, and it would make an excellent work-to-weekend bag.

Matador GlobeRider45 Travel Pack

• Dimensions 22" x 12.8" x 11"
• Compartment access Zippered clamshell design
• Material 420D UHMWPE-reinforced ripstop nylon, 100D Robic nylon mini-ripstop

• Incredible density of pockets and sleeves
• Tough UHMWPE outer fabric can be tossed around
• Shoulder straps tuck away in a novel and smart manner
• Laptop sleeve opening is a bit tight
• Price is up there

With a pocket or sleeve for pretty much everything, the new Matador GlobeRider 45 ($350) gives the Peak Design Travel Pack a run for its money when it comes to the best overall travel pack. 

Our Managing Editor raved about the GlobeRider after serious testing where she pretty much lived out of it for 3 months: “If you travel often and look for crucial components like internal and external pockets, laptop storage, and backpack and hip straps, consider the Matador GlobeRider 45. It’s a unique design in that the [pack] seems to have it all — every feature I’ve needed so far, both living out of it and in my travels — in a pretty packable size.”

What impressed us most was the way the GlobeRider was able to balance both an eye-watering amount of organization and versatility, and burly durability that ensures that this pack won’t shy away from tough travel conditions. In total (and we double-counted) there are 19 individual pockets on the pack, in all types of stretch mesh, zippered, and collapsible configurations. When good organization is key, the GlobeRider reigns. 

On the back panel of the GlobeRider, one of the more novel stowage systems we’ve seen packs away the shoulder straps and hip belt for when you want to slim down the pack. Two zippered panels — similar to the structure of the Peak Design packs, save for the closure — envelop the straps when not in use, and provide a lump-free panel for toting around. 

When it comes to downsides, the GlobeRider doesn’t miss much. The laptop sleeve aperture is a bit small at 9.5”, which in today’s age of mondo-screened computers may be limiting to some with larger devices. There also is no ability to convert the pack to a shoulder bag like the Patagonia MLC does, which can be handy when moving quickly through the airport.

Dang-near the top of the list, the Matador GlobeRider 45 would be an excellent choice for anyone who practices one-bag travel, or desires to have a place for everything in their journeys. The price does sting a bit, but based on the long-term testing we’ve completed so far, we’ve seen no indications that this pack will fade away anytime soon.

Read Review: I Lived Out of This Backpack for 3-Plus Months: Matador Globerider45 Review

Thule Aion 40L

• Weight 3 lbs., 3 oz.
• Dimensions 13" x 9.1" x 20.5"
• Material Waxed P600 polyester canvas

• Maxes out on carry-on-compliant space
• Internal roll-top TPU bag separates the clean from the to-do laundry
• Waxed canvas exterior has a classy look
• Centered side handle carries well
• Well-cushioned back panel
• No shoulder strap stowage option
• No hipbelt on a 40L is pushing it

Better known for their roof boxes and racks, it’s fair to say that Thule knows travel, and the addition of smart, organized, and comfortable travel packs like the Thule Aion 40L ($200) makes all the sense in the world to us. This pack is a finely-honed bag for international and local travel alike, and is decked out in some high-class materials.

Like the Patagonia Black Hole MLC pack, the Aion 40L aims to go for the maximum allowed capacity, and at our measurements (21.5” x 15” x 8”) the pack slides in just half an inch less than the normal 45 linear inches typically allowed. That’s efficient. The space is split up into two main compartments and a laptop sleeve, with the larger opening with a full clamshell zip.

This inner compartment hosts a few zippered pockets and internal compression straps, but the star of the show here is the integrated TPU rolltop bag. This sack can be used to cordon off your liquids (and easily presented for inspection), as well as separate your pile of ‘to-do’ laundry. This reminds us of the ActiveShield compartment in the Gregory Border Traveler pack, but we enjoy the removable aspect here even more. 

Round the back of the pack, the spacer-mesh swaddled laptop sleeve rivals the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader , and has an additional sleeve for items like tablets, notebooks, or chargers. The back panel itself is impressively cushioned (one of the more luxe in our testing) and that extends to the shoulder straps. 

Unfortunately, there’s no shoulder strap-stowage system here, so you’ll have to wrangle those yourself, and while we typically enjoy the lack of a hip belt in smaller travel packs, the absence in a 40-liter pack is a little puzzling. Fully loaded, the Aion could certainly benefit from one, and while a separate sling bag can be added to function as one, you’ll need to fork over $50 for it.

Ranking high up there with your Peak Designs and your Ospreys, the Thule Aion 40L nails the style and material departments, and with a full 40 liters of space on board, has all the room to pack for your week-long trips — no roof box required.

Osprey Archeon 30L

• Capacity 30 L
• Weight 3 lbs.
• Dimensions 20.5" x 13" x 11.4"
• Compartment access Zippered top-access
• Material 840D ballistic polyester with carbonate coating

• Extra-tough exterior fabric with carbonate coating
• High-polish details such as seatbelt webbing straps
• Mini-wing hipbelt tucks away easily when not needed
• Smart internal storage pockets that lay flat when not needed
• Laptop sleeve opening is a bit too snug
• Compression straps lay over the main zipper

First off, one word: Rugged. The Osprey Archeon 30L ($250) is a high-end build that spares little in the material department, and looks dang good while it’s at it. The 30-liter size makes this bag weekend travel-ready, and we greatly appreciated the fit and finish.

The overall design of the Archeon reminds us a good bit of the Peak Design Travel Bag (certainly the all-waterproof exterior zippers and curved side-entry pockets), but it’s the exterior fabric that really impressed. The 840D ballistic polyester is coated with a carbonate polyurethane coating, a bolstered recipe that increases durability by a magnitude over traditional PU coatings. In testing, we wore out before putting a dent in it.

The pack itself breaks down into two main compartments, with the main pocket opening behind a curved clamshell zip (we did have a little trouble with the zipper passing behind the exterior straps. Removing them fixed that). Inside, three expandable tech pockets tuck away all of your small kit, and do a good job of keeping things tidy on the interior.

On the exterior, Osprey doesn’t disappoint when it comes to suspension straps, which are comfortable, adjustable, and stashable. The mini wing-style hip belt earns special praise on packed flights, where we find traditional hip belts to be a hassle to store, and combined with the slick shoulder-strap stash pocket, the Archeon converts to minimal mode in under a minute.

Something the Archeon certainly could use, however, is a slightly larger aperture into the laptop/tech compartment. As-is, the zipper doesn’t quite extend down far enough to truly open up the pocket, and as such it can feel a bit like rummaging around in the dark looking for cords and chargers in the bottom of the pack. Extending these zippers down to the middle of the pack would seem to fix the issue, and we hope a later iteration might address this.

Nonetheless, we were still impressed by the Osprey Archeon 30L . There’s also a 40-liter version if you’re looking for a max-capacity carry-on, and even a smaller 24-liter for kicking around coffee shops day-to-day.

Read Review: Hack Carry-On Rules: Osprey Archeon Kit Gives Power Back to Passengers

Arc’teryx Granville 25 Backpack

• Capacity 25 L
• Weight 1 lb., 14.5 oz.
• Dimensions 22" x 12" x 9"
• Compartment access Drawstring top-entry
• Material N400r-AC² nylon ripstop

• Tough and waterproof exterior fabric
• White interior for easy viewing
• Floating laptop sleeve
• Not very much interior organization
• Simple webbing waistbelt

Made for moving through the city over the concourse, the commute-ready Arc’teryx Granville 25 ($220) takes travel backpacks to the streets in a sleek and tough design that we couldn’t keep from grabbing every day.

Crafted from the same N400r-AC² nylon ripstop as Arc’teryx’s high-end climbing packs, the mountain DNA is strong in the Granville, with fully taped seams that make the pack highly weather-resistant. In our impromptu “rain” test, a garden hose fired directly at the pack wasn’t able to get a drop past the tough exterior.

On the front of the pack, a single water-resistant zippered pocket was practically made for your keys, and could accommodate a few other essentials for when you’re on the go. Tossing back the shaped lid, a single drawstring entry leads to the interior space, which is mainly one large pocket, with a few zippered and drop pockets to separate smaller items. If you’re looking for the same style pack, but with a bit more organization built-in, the Tom Bihn Synapse 25 divides up its space well.

The padded interior laptop sleeve will accommodate up to a 16” laptop, and is suspended within the main compartment in a way that leaves us feeling confident in slinging our computer across a shoulder. Compared to other more airline-focused travel packs, the Granville 25 has its feet more firmly planted on the ground, and excels at bus, bike, or foot travel.

Whether your commute is just across town or across the country, the Arc’teryx Granville 25 makes for a good-looking carry-all that’s bound to be around for a while.

Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 40L

• Weight 3 lbs., 10.4 oz.
• Dimensions 22.5" x 14" x 7.5"
• Material 1000D recycled nylon, 400D recycled nylon, 210D recycled nylon, 1680D recycled ballistic nylon

• Overbuilt design with tough materials and chunky zippers
• Plenty of organizational pockets
• Bright interior
• Not the cleanest strap stowage

Chunky zippers, an overhead-savvy profile, and multiple ways to sling it over your shoulder: The Topo Designs Global Travel Pack ($229) has honed in on much of what we love in a travel backpack.

During a recent trip from Seattle to Southern California we were heavily saddled with the maximum the airline would allow. But this pack made use of every inch of space and reached the allowance of what we could check as our carry-on. The 40 liters of internal capacity is broken down into a series of dividers and pockets, which made condoning off things like electronics from the rest of our kit easy. And the interior of this pack is a cheery canary yellow, which helps with ease and visibility.

On the exterior of this pack, three separate carry styles are available to get you through the concourse in whatever way you choose. We found the full-featured backpack straps to be our go-to, which even sport load-lifters for a comfy carry. This suspension system does tuck away for when you might want to check the bag, though we found the hipbelt to be a bit tricky to fully retract.

Rounding out this travel-ready backpack is a tough build that makes use of 1000D recycled nylon and heavy-duty zippers, and we had no qualms with tossing this bag around during our trip. Perfect for anyone who subscribes to the one-bag travel ethos, the Global Travel Pack from Topo Designs makes the grade for those who want the most out of their carry-on.

And if you’re only going to be away for a short trip, the Global Travel pack is also available in a 30L capacity .

Cotopaxi Allpa 28L Travel Pack

• Capacity 28 L
• Weight 3 lbs., 4 oz.
• Dimensions 19" x 12" x 9"
• Material TPU-coated 1,000-denier polyester, 840-denier nylon paneling

• Burly exterior material holds up for the long run
• Plenty of zippered mesh storage pockets
• On the heavier side
• TPU-coated nylon can feel grabby

The Allpa 28L Travel Pack ($170) will change the way you travel. It’s sleek, durable, and able to fit an incredible amount of stuff in a small space. The zippered mesh pockets keep clothes organized. And the compression straps maximize what you can pack.

The tough polyester and nylon construction can take a beating without any signs of wear. And we appreciate that the externally accessed, padded laptop sleeve makes pulling out your electronics at security checkpoints a breeze. There’s also a small outer compartment to keep essentials at hand.

You can completely tuck away the backpack straps and carry the pack like a briefcase, or wear it comfortably as a backpack. We’ve stuffed this pack to the gills countless times and have never had a problem with the zippers. Light rain showers or spills roll right off the TPU-coated exterior, but for legit rainstorms, just pull out the included rain cover.

The Allpa also comes in 35L, 42L, 50L, and 70L capacities. As our editor noted in the 42L review , “Building on its fun and functional ethos, Cotopaxi beefs up its bestselling product. The Allpa Travel Pack earns big points for clever design, clean aesthetic, and a surprising number of handy — and hidden — features.”

Yes, the Cotopaxi Allpa packs are an investment, but anyone who travels regularly will find it a worthy one. These powerhouse travel backpacks are sturdy, versatile, and built to last.

Tom Bihn Synapse 25

• Weight 1 lb., 13 oz.
• Dimensions 13.4" x 20" x 9.1"
• Material 400-denier Halcyon, 420-denier nylon ripstop

• Many different fabrics and color schemes are available
• Built to last design and materials
• Removable webbing hip belt
• Suspension doesn’t pack away
• Side wing pockets are a little awkward to access

Refined and clean-looking, the Tom Bihn Synapse 25 ($243) is a high-end travel backpack we just can’t stop staring at. It just looks that good. Made of burly textiles and zippers, this pack was built to stand the test of tough travel and come out shining on the other side.

The Synapse 25 is the larger version of Tom Bihn’s Synapse 19 , a popular backpack made for daily carry. The bump in volume is appreciated in this travel-oriented version and is doled out in one large compartment as well as a set of pockets on the front of the pack.

We found all the pockets easily accessible, save for the side wing pockets. While these were excellent for the organization of smaller bits and bobs, the openings were a bit awkward to jump into.

Topped off by a cushioned suspension (the foam is a half-inch of supple EV50), this travel backpack didn’t weigh us down on long days of travel when fully packed. And when we wanted to go light, even the webbing hip belt was removable. In terms of the ability to bop around town as a daily driver, this pack is up there with the TimBuk2 Never Check and Arc’teryx Granville packs (we liked the back panel on this pack the most).

Along with being carry-on compliant, the Synapse is also one of the few bags on our list that are compact enough to fit under most airline seats without hogging too much precious legroom.

Osprey Nebula 32 Daypack

• Capacity 32 L
• Weight 2 lbs., 1.7 oz.
• Dimensions 19.2" x 12.2" x 11.4"
• Material 420-denier recycled nylon

• TSA-compliant laptop sleeve
• Many options for organization
• Water bottle pockets fit 32 oz. bottles
• Need to release two buckles in order to unzip the main pocket all the way

When it comes to backpacks, Osprey has put in the time — and it shows. The Nebula 32 ($140) feels like it’s all the brand’s most popular packs morphed into one. Most of all, we love how it seamlessly goes from city streets to trails.

This backpack can do it all, whether you’re hauling your laptop and books around town; water, food, and layers on an easy hike; or all of the above and then some for a weekend away.

The internal storage pockets are great for organizing all of your things for easy access. And while the Nebula 32 is top-loading, the main pocket opens up wide enough so you won’t have to unload everything to get to the one thing you want at the bottom. The sternum strap and hip belt are comfortable as well, especially when carrying a heavy load.

On smaller volume packs like this, sometimes design concessions need to be made to accommodate all the functionality, and on the Nebula it’s in the side compression straps. Like on the Osprey Farpoint/Fairview, the compression system of the pack overlays across the main compartment zipper, meaning you’ll need to undo some straps before rifling around in the storage area. Not a deal breaker, but a little annoying when the TSA line starts to back up behind you.

Overall, the Nebula 32 won’t disappoint if you make it your go-to smaller-volume travel backpack.

Travel Backpack Comparison Chart

How We Tested Travel Backpacks

The staff of GearJunkie is a hot-footed bunch, restlessly plodding across the country or around the globe in search of adventure and whatever else comes our way. And we have a lot of stuff, which necessitates having a travel bag or four in the stable.

Surely any old bindle will do in carrying your kit around, but having a travel backpack that is dialed into the needs of travel can turn a stressful situation into a manageable one. We’ve been testing travel backpacks since 2019 and have put the market slice through the wringer on thousands of miles of travel to weed out the best of the best.

Senior Editor Nick Belcaster has a zeal for international travel, and he leads up our current travel pack testing, logging almost 10,000 flying miles in the last year alone. From Iceland to Utah, Belcaster has carried these packs and lived out of them for weeks, relying on them to support back-to-back travel excursions. In testing, we looked for a number of features in our travel backpacks, including overall capacity, carry style, durability, and aesthetics. It’s important to think about how you’ll use your travel pack, and as such, every pack on our list is carry-on compliant for the worst-case scenario.

We know no trip will be like the next, so we took a broad swath of the travel backpacks on the market in order to create a list that will suit many different travelers. Packs in hand, over our shoulders, or on our backs, we hit the four corners and tested the best travel backpacks of 2024.

Curious about what we pack in our travel backpacks? We’ve penned up a list for both domestic and international trips .

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose a Travel Backpack

Travel backpack user profiles.

The International Jet-Setter: The term ‘One Bag Travel’ is no stranger to you, and you’ve just about got your life distilled down into 45 liters of space. If international travel is your bag, then a backpack that’s up to the task will be essential to see you through to further time zones. Efficiency will be the name of the game here, and going with a pack that is dang-near the carry-on maximums for international flights will mean you can make it through without checking a bag. Look for near to 45-liter packs with plenty of organization baked in, as well as a comfortable (and stashable) carry system.

For international travel, the bag we reach for most often had to be the Peak Design Travel Backpack , with a razor-thin second place going to the Matador GlobeRider45 Travel Pack . For an emphasis on organization, the Matador SEG45 splits up the volume well, and if you’ll be schlepping bags around a long way, the Osprey Farpoint & Fairview Packs have all the Osprey suspension we love.

The Weekend-Warrior: Maybe it’s a work trip, and maybe it’s just for fun, but it’s only going to take 2-3 days total, and you’ll need a bag that can pack it in. For weekend excursions, we find packs in the 25-35 liter range work well for the minimalists among us, and the 30-40 liter range for those who like a bit more options.

The Tom Bihn Synapse 25 is easily one of the most stylish packs in our review, only slightly edged out by the Timbuk2 Never Check , and both make the grade for a single overnighter in a foreign locale. For a bit more space, you can’t go wrong with the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 40L , a fun pack that is a lot tougher than the multi-colored exterior would let on.

The Commuter: No flight involved! Duty calls, and sometimes you’ll need to lug around a bit more kit than the old briefcase can allow for. Commuting with a travel backpack is a great way to stay comfortable on longer rides, as shoulder and handbags are cumbersome over the long run. Focus on a bag with a more traditional backpack shape that puts an emphasis on ease-of-access, and is in the 20-30 liter range.

For bumping around town, we’ve come to love the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24 , which not only lugs our remote office around with ease, but also looks pretty slick doing it. The drawstring opening here is a huge boon for quickly stashing a jacket, and the tough exterior fears no weather forecast. For a budget just-get-it-done choice, the Dakine Campus 33L will make it happen for less.

The right size pack for you depends on a few things. First, where are you going? And, how long do you plan to stay? Winter travel often comes with more gear, so you’ll need to pack extra layers. Longer trips often require larger bags.

That said, your personal packing style will be the most important factor. We know minimalists who happily travel for months with only a single backpack in tow and others who want the largest travel backpack possible in addition to a totally stuffed duffel bag . One method isn’t better than the other, but knowing your style is helpful when choosing a bag.

In general, we’ve found that something in the 28-45 liter range is ideal for comfort and packability. Many packs will also offer a compression system to allow you to limit the overall volume of the backpack. We’ve seen many different ways to accomplish this, but the most effective by far were the button snaps and expanding zipper of the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L . Packs toward the 40-45 liter range will be your carry-on bags of choice, and the 45-liter Peak Design, Patagonia MLC , and Matador GlobeRider are perfect for maxing out your allowed space. The 40-liter Osprey Farpoint/Fairview packs give up a little internal room for the luxe suspension system they’re carried with.

Packs in the smaller end of the range, from around 25-30 liters, make better personal items, and the TimBuk2 Never Check , Tom Bihn Synapse , and Patagonia Black Hole backpacks all fit snuggly underneath an airliner seat. These small bags move through a city gracefully and look more like everyday carry backpacks than traditional luggage.

What good would a bag be if you couldn’t get into it? From a simple drawstring to a thicket of Velcro and zippers, there are plenty of ways to keep your bag closed while you’re on the go, but not every one will be amenable to travel.

Zippered Clamshells: Most travel backpacks will use a clamshell-style design that opens up the backpack like a suitcase, allowing you to pack intentionally as opposed to stuffing things in. Oftentimes, an internal strap system will help keep your items contained while you’re on the move.

Packs with this clamshell design may also opt to add internal dividers to the main storage area, and make these dividers removable — should you need the entire storage area uninhibited. For packs without internal dividers or straps, consider adding a few packing cubes to keep your items organized.

In addition to the rear entry, some backpacks will offer additional entry points through the top or front of the pack. This can be helpful when you need to quickly retrieve something like a passport from your bag, without the need to totally spill the contents. The majority of packs in our review close in this clamshell manner, and a few of our favorites are the Peak Design Travel Backpack , Osprey Farpoint & Fairview 40 Travel Packs , and Matador GlobeRider45 Travel Pack .

Zippered Top-Access: Much like many traditional backpacks, zippered top-access packs load and unload from the topside, and generally only offer one point of entry/egress into the pack. For this reason, packs of this flavor are generally left packed during travel, as digging around for something at the bottom can be a hassle.

Bags of this stripe, including the uber-nice Tom Bihn Synapse 25 and expandable Timbuk2 Never Check , most often make better personal items over carry-ons, as their smaller volumes make for easier searching within.

Drawstring Top-Entry: While not quite as common as a zippered clamshell or top-access pack, drawstring top-entry packs can make for very quick and easy access to your kit if you’re on the move. These packs will integrate an extended fabric collar to the top of the storage area, which can be compressed when needed, or overstuffed with bulky items like jackets.

Commuters will find drawstring entry bags the most appealing, and the Arc’teryx Granville 25 has become one of our dedicated laptop toters for everything from remote work stints at the coffee shop to jumping on a ferry for work.

Carrying Options

There are plenty of ways to lug your kit to your boarding gate, but not all of them will be comfortable for everything. Over-shoulder backpack straps can support a good bit of weight but typically will need some type of frame to truly be supportive. The Osprey Farpoint/Fairview packs were the best-carrying packs in our testing, owed largely to the wire frame and Airscape mesh back panels, but we also enjoyed the carry of the aluminum frame stays on the Matador GlobeRider.

A shoulder strap travel backpack, like the Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L , can be slung across your body and provide a great amount of accessibility on the go. Don’t expect to carry too much weight this way, however.

And then there’s the classic suitcase style, easily towed anywhere. It’s good to note many travel backpacks will have stowable straps to better streamline the pack for a trip through an X-ray machine or stowed under a seat. The strap storage design of the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L impressed us most of all, utilizing magnetic closure flaps to pack away the shoulder and hip straps neatly.

Pockets & Organization

There’s an organizational saying: “A place for everything and everything in its place.” And we couldn’t agree more. Keeping track of everything while you travel is key for organization. And while more pockets always seem better, there is a threshold where having too many simply becomes more places to misplace things. Instead, we recommend packs with three to six pockets.

The Cotopaxi Allpa and Topo Designs Global Travel Bags both have ingenious inner organization systems complete with large zipping “pockets.” It has just enough space to find room for everything but not so many compartments that you’ll be hunting all day for your misplaced passport. For even more organization, the Matador SEG45 splits into five different segments that are accessible from the exterior of the pack.

Bringing along a laptop is a necessary evil for some travelers, and having an incorporated laptop sleeve in your travel backpack can keep it safe during travel. Most laptop sleeves will be padded with some type of foam and nestle in close to the back for maximum protection. In order to be TSA-compliant, a laptop sleeve will need to fold entirely flat away from the pack to be scanned.

Because flying with liquids over 3.4 ounces is prohibited in the U.S., carrying all of these items in a separate toiletry bag can make your foray into the screening line a breeze. Many of the packs on our list incorporate many external pockets where such a bag could be stashed and produced when needed.

Travel luggage takes a beating, so durability is a top concern. Luckily, gear manufacturers realize this and are making increasingly burly yet portable packs. The fan-favorite Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L pack is made with a 900-denier ripstop nylon outer with a TPU laminate for extra durability. It’s nearly indestructible, water-resistant, and versatile.

If you’re traveling somewhere with inclement weather or if your pack needs to double as a climbing bag or hiking pack, durability is extra important. And it’s worth paying more for a backpack that is water-resistant.

Space Efficiency & Carry-On Compliance

Astute observers will note many of the packs in our review sport a rectangular shape, which is certainly due to designers aspiring to create a more space-efficient pack. This isn’t to say that more shapely packs won’t make it happen, but when you’re struggling to make every liter of space count, maximizing dimensions matters.

Carry-on luggage is any bag that you plan on bringing into an airplane and storing in the overhead bins. Because space is limited, airlines dictate the maximum size that any carry-on can be. In the U.S., the most common size is 22 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches, or 45 linear inches (length + width + height). However, this is just a rough guideline; some airlines differ from these dimensions, and you should refer to their information directly.

In general, these dimensions provide a travel backpack with around 40-45 liters of internal volume, so buying a pack that’s as close to that as possible will provide the most space allowed. Many of the packs on our list have the ability to compress to a smaller size, such as the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L .

Be mindful as well, that any protrusions from your travel pack such as shoulder straps or handles will also need to fall within the maximum allowed size. Many travel backpacks today incorporate some type of strap-stowing ability, such as the magnetic panels of the Peak Design packs, the zippered cover of the Osprey Farpoint/Fairview, and the hybrid zipper/panel of the Matador GlobeRider 45. All of these provide a more streamlined profile that should both hit the mark, and fit better into overhead bins.

Travel backpacks run the gamut of prices — from affordable to downright pricey. There are a number of factors that play into what you get for the money.

Budget-Minded Travel Packs

Travel backpacks, as a category, are generally a bit pricer than your average luggage, as they incorporate tough materials that can put up with extensive wear over the lifespan. Travel is tough on bags, so it’s unsurprising that even budget travel backpacks will cost you around $100-150. These packs often will incorporate more traditional architectures such as a zippered top access, as opposed to the more complicated (and spendy) full-zip clamshell designs. For example, the Dakine Campus ($75) is pretty much your average school bag.

Volumes, too, will be a bit limited in this price range — added material adds cost. The 32-liter Osprey Nebula ($140) is about the best price-to-volume ratio you can get.

Mid-Range Travel Packs

Mid-range packs make up the bread and butter of travel packs, and can be had for around $150 to $200. These designs are often more of the full carry-on variety, and aim to capitalize on permitted volume as much as possible. The 45-liter Matador SEG45 ($200), Patagonia Black Hole MLC ($239), 40-liter Osprey Farpoint/Fairview ($185), and Topo Designs Global Travel Bag ($229) all shoehorn in just about as much space as a friendly gate agent will let you get away with.

For the price, you also get a good variety of functionality that makes travel easier, such as stowable pack straps, interior segmented pockets and sleeves (done excellently on the $170 Cotopaxi Allpa ), and an external compression system that limits the space your bag takes up. Some packs, like the TimBuk2 Never Check ($209), don’t exactly hit these parameters, but instead make up for it in high-quality design and materials.

Premium Travel Packs

Above $250, you’re likely paying for premium materials or a to-the-hilt design that leaves absolutely nothing on the cutting room floor. The Peak Design Travel Backpack ($300) is a great example, and utilizes super high-quality nylon canvas, custom aluminum hardware, and supple seatbelt material webbing in its build, as well as fitting in just about every conceivable feature you could want in a travel pack. The same can be said of the Matador GlobeRider 45 ($350), which uses high-tech UHMPWE-reinforced materials and sports a total of 19 pockets.

The Tom Bihn Synapse 25 ($243) is a bit of an outlier, as it commands a high dollar amount not for the extreme amount of space it offers or amount of features, but for being a hyper-customizable, hand-made bag that uses the nicest textiles available, as well as the best zippers, webbing, and foam in its design. If you’re a fan of the finest materials, this is your daily driver pack.

What Is One Bag Travel?

The ‘One Bag Travel’ ethos and travel backpacks go hand-in-hand. Simply put, to travel in one-bag style is to be minimalist in your luggage choices, and only take what you can carry onto the plane/train/pack animal. Not only does this do away with the fuss of deciding what exactly to bring along with you, but it also allows for breezing through airports — skipping the need to check baggage, wait at baggage claim, or fear for lost luggage.

In order to most effectively travel with one bag, be sure to read up on exactly the baggage size allowances provided by your transportation. This can affect both overall size and weight, and having an expandable pack is a large benefit here. In this way, you can carry just enough to skirt through under the limit, and then expand the bag when you’ve hit your destination for more breathing room. If you aim for a 35-40 liter backpack, you’ll be right on the money for one-bag travel.

Finally, remember that this bag is going to be the only item of luggage you’ve got, so ensure it’ll be comfortable enough for the long haul. Look for padded back panels and hip belts that’ll transfer the load correctly, and if they stash away — all the better.

Our team unanimously agrees that the best travel backpack is the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L . It’s extremely durable, and it offers plenty of organizational pockets to stash your kit away in. The clamshell opening makes packing a breeze, and we really appreciated the unique shoulder strap storage options available to turn the pack into a stripped-down bag that would slide into any overhead compartment.

The best size bag for traveling depends largely on your travel itinerary and mode of transport. The Cotopaxi Allpa packs range from 28 to 42 liters.

The 28-liter option makes for a compact and comfortable backpack that easily fits in overhead airplane compartments. The 42-liter option is a bit more like carrying a duffel bag on your back, but it still manages to fit in overhead compartments. It’s a great option for maximizing carry-on capacity in backpack form.

While both have their place in travel, a backpack can offer some advantages over a suitcase. Since they’re much more portable, backpacks can be brought to many more places where a suitcase won’t work. Suitcases can be your large load carriers, but a good travel backpack gives you the freedom to strike out on daily adventures.

Travel backpacks absolutely can be carry-on luggage, given they meet the size requirements. In the U.S., the most common maximum size is 22 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches, or 45 linear inches (length + width + height). But this is only a common size, and different airlines will have different specifics. Consult with your airline specifically to determine what they allow.

While different body types will find different travel packs comfortable, we can all agree that a good support system and ample foam make for a comfortable carry. In our own testing, we found the Osprey Farpoint 40 and Fairview 40 Travel Packs were by far the most comfortable due to their plush suspension systems.

Because many different airlines operate a slate of different planes, there isn’t a standard under-seat luggage size, although there is an average: 16 inches x 12 inches x 6 inches. Some airlines allow personal items larger than this, but you should consult with their customer service for specifics. Our favorite personal item-sized travel pack was the Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack , which at 24 liters compressed easily slides under a seat.

The Best Laptop Backpacks of 2024

Whether you’re headed to the office, class, or even the trailhead, here’s our top picks for the best laptop backpacks of 2024.

The Best Daypacks of 2024

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

Hailing from the hemlocks and hanging mosses of Washington State, Senior Editor Nick Belcaster is an adventure journalist following threads of stories across the West. Cruelly stolen from the alpine swales of rural Wisconsin at a young age, Nick made do ascending the snows and granite of the North Cascades while completing a journalism degree. A long stint on the Pacific Crest Trail in 2018 codified a life bent on sleeping on minor slopes and picking devil’s club out of his shoes.

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Vango Cargo Travel Bag, Grey, 60 Litre

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

Protex 4:2 fabric – innovative new fabric made with 420D rip stop polyester with 2 coatings of PU on the inner face and 4 on the outer, a light and durable combination Zip access to main compartment Grab handles at centre and both ends

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The Cargo 60L is perfect for transporting gear and equipment on long journeys to the wild places of the world. This travel bag is extremely strong and robust due to its Protex 4:2 shell. The barrel shaped bag also features stow away shoulder straps and, a mesh pocket stored underneath the lid of the bag.

Protex 4:2 fabric – innovative new fabric made with 420D rip stop polyester with 2 coatings of PU on the inner face and 4 on the outer, a light and durable combination Zip access to main compartment Grab handles at centre and both ends Duraflex buckles Stow away shoulder straps

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• Travel Gear Reviews
• Luggage Reviews

The 7 Best Duffel Bags of 2024

Gearing up for the next trip and need a duffel to get you there? Since 2010, our team of experts has bought, traveled with, and tested over 55 of the best, most popular, and most interesting duffel bags on the market. In this update, we round up 15 of the most promising models that are available today. We hauled these bags across the globe for weeks at a time to evaluate their durability, weather resistance, organization, and ease of transporting. We threw them on trunks, checked them at airports, crammed them in lockers, and strapped them to the backs of pack animals. We've covered it all, whether you're looking for a bag for your next adventure, a sleek bag for a weekend getaway, or just a durable everyday duffel.

We've tested all types of the top-rated travel bags , from the best luggage and best carry on luggage to the best travel backpack and even a huge variety of the best backpacks for any scenario. And whether you're traveling near or far, we've got you covered with our packing list .

Editor's Note: Our duffel bag review was updated on April 10, 2024, to provide details about our testing protocols and offer buying advice.

Top 15 Product Ratings

Best overall duffel bag, patagonia black hole duffel.

• Storage and Ease of Packing 8.6
• Ease of Transport 8.5
• Protection 8.5
• Construction Quality 9.2
• Weight-to-Volume Ratio 6.1

No matter which size you look at, there are not many downsides to the Black Hole . We did find that the closure wrap for the suitcase handles — the piece of material that lets you secure them together — uses button snaps that are difficult to use, especially in a hurry. We also wish that there was a smaller internal or external pocket in the bag for small items to aid with organization. Nonetheless, these complaints are minor when looking at this excellent and high-scoring bag. But if you prefer to keep your small items organized for easy access on the go, the HYC00 Travel offers three internal pockets to keep things neat and tidy.

Read more: Patagonia Black Hole Duffel review

Great Value for a Rugged Adventure Duffel Bag

Gregory alpaca.

• Storage and Ease of Packing 8.5
• Ease of Transport 8.2
• Protection 8.3
• Construction Quality 9.1
• Weight-to-Volume Ratio 4.0

The Alpaca scores well across the board in our testing and shows no significant weaknesses. The only notable drawback is that the suitcase handles are oddly large, especially for the smaller-sized options. They don't detract from use while carrying it but can dangle and get caught on things when not wrapped up. Overall, the Alpaca is still one of our favorite bags and offers excellent value. If the thought of dangling suitcase handles strikes a nerve, the Thule Chasm can help reduce irritation by removing the detachable straps.

Read more: Gregory Alpaca review

Best Duffel Bag On a Tight Budget

Hyc00 travel.

• Storage and Ease of Packing 6.5
• Ease of Transport 5.5
• Protection 4.5
• Construction Quality 6.0
• Weight-to-Volume Ratio 4.5

The HYC00 is one of the heavier bags that we tested when comparing its weight-to-volume ratio. While it is easy to access and store items, this isn't a traditional duffel-style design, and the main compartment requires some digging through to reach items on the bottom. Although the HYC00 is comfortable enough for a short walk, its suitcase handles and single shoulder strap aren't the most comfortable if the bag is overweight or you're traveling a significant distance while carrying it. But, for a daily bag or weekend getaway, the HYC00 is a great bag at a great price. We also like the more durable Herschel Novel for short trips — it has a larger capacity, though fewer pockets for organization. For the long haul, the comfortable carrying system of the Osprey Transporter will likely suit you better.

Read more: HYC00 Travel bag review

A Great Oversized Duffel Bag on a Budget

Rei co-op roadtripper.

• Storage and Ease of Packing 5.0
• Ease of Transport 3.8
• Protection 6.5
• Weight-to-Volume Ratio 9.5

The Roadtripper 's lightweight design is owed to its thinner material and simple construction. It also lacks many "fancy" features found on higher-end models, like backpack straps, compression straps, internal pockets, or extensive daisy chains. While the fabric and zipper are sturdy enough for most general use, they may not withstand the abuse that the more robust adventure-ready duffels can endure. But for basic use, the Roadtripper is a versatile, lightweight, affordable option. If you are shopping for a duffel with high-end features but a reasonable price tag, check out the Gregory Alpaca or the Cotopaxi Allpa Duo .

Most Comfortable Duffel Bag Carrying System

Osprey transporter.

• Storage and Ease of Packing 8.0
• Ease of Transport 9.0
• Protection 8.8
• Construction Quality 7.5
• Weight-to-Volume Ratio 7.4

The Transporter is quite comfortable in backpack mode, but it lacks the traditional briefcase-style carry handles found on most duffel bags. While the comfortable and heavy-duty grab handles help compensate for this, we appreciate carrying systems with more options. Although this bag contains both an interior and an external zippered pocket, their awkward placement makes them less useful. Built for hauling heavy loads in comfort and style, the Transporter makes an excellent choice for those who prioritize backpack-carrying capabilities. If you want a backpack-optional duffel with more pockets and organizational features, check out the Cotopaxi Allpa Duo . If you prefer a duffel with traditional briefcase-style handles, The North Face Base Camp is a great option to consider.

Read more: Osprey Transporter review

Best Simple and Rugged Expedition Duffel Bag

The north face base camp.

• Storage and Ease of Packing 7.0
• Ease of Transport 7.2
• Protection 9.2
• Construction Quality 9.8
• Weight-to-Volume Ratio 6.6

The primary drawback of the Base Camp is its strap arrangement. The grab handles and traditional briefcase-style straps are permanently affixed and are straightforward to use, but you must thread the shoulder straps through a doubled-back buckle to remove or replace them. Many airlines require you to remove duffel bag straps, and so this adds a somewhat tedious task each time you hand off or collect your luggage. Also, the thick material shows scuffs more than other models and has a more practical look than some more elegant options. But for a simple, dependable bag that can take you to all seven continents with ease, the Base Camp is our top choice. Another option to consider is the Patagonia Black Hole Duffel , which also boasts a durable design but has far more quickly removable shoulder straps.

Read more: The North Face Base Camp review

Best Sports and Gym Duffel Bag

Adidas defender small.

• Storage and Ease of Packing 5.5
• Ease of Transport 5.0
• Protection 6.0
• Construction Quality 3.0
• Weight-to-Volume Ratio 8.8

One drawback to the Defender is that the material and stitching are not as robust as we'd like to see on a bag, specifically one designed to be tossed around on buses, lockers, and muddy fields. While we love the dual-sided pouches, we do wish they were just a little larger. It will fit one pair of shoes, but there isn't much room to spare, especially if the bag is already full or your shoes are longer or bulkier. Despite that, we think this bag is a great choice for everyday use for the gym, courts, or sports practice. But for expeditions and rugged adventures when durability is essential, The North Face Base Camp is the one we'd reach for first.

Read more: Adidas Defender duffel review

Best Rolling Duffel Bag

Osprey sojourn shuttle 100l.

The Osprey Sojourn Shuttle 100L is the new favorite rolling duffel bag of our suitcase testing team. This backpacking-inspired bag holds a ton of gear securely within, keeping everything in place with its external straitjacket-like compression system. Made of 460D and 500D high-tenacity recycled ripstop nylon and a metal frame supporting its structure, this bag is built to withstand the rigors of travel. A telescoping handle hides below the end of the bag, sliding out easily to let you roll the Sojourn, with its large wheels and thick tread, easily over even the most variable terrain. No more having to carry your duffel on your back or along one side.

Though the big burly zippers of the Sojourn Shuttle are well-designed to withstand the trials of being crammed full and sent through airline checked baggage systems, that added bulk makes them a bit harder to operate. It lacks the back rails of many other suitcases that would let it slide more easily up each step in a staircase. And though it's built to last, the price tag on this enormous rolling duffel can be tough to stomach. However, if you often find yourself slinging heavy gear in a duffel bag, this rolling monster is worth the investment. We also loved the Eagle Creek ORV Trunk 30 , a similar style of roller bag just with slightly different organizational features and a marginally different price tag.

Read more: Osprey Sojourn Shuttle 100L review

Best Dry Bag Duffel Bag

Yeti panga duffel 50.

Sometimes adventure takes us into truly adverse weather conditions, and for those times, water resistance isn't enough. If you're looking for a fully waterproof dry bag and duffel bag hybrid, the Yeti Panga 50 fits the bill. Its durable laminated high-density nylon is completely waterproof, and the opening seals shut with a HydroLok zipper. With RF welded seams, this duffel keeps the water out and the air in, even when fully submerged. For this reason, it is our go-to bag for protecting sensitive electronic equipment in wet conditions. This Yeti has a healthy amount of webbing and attachment points, plus shoulder straps, so you can just as easily carry it through the airport as lash it to an inflatable raft.

These premium features and protection come at a hefty price point and a high weight for a dry bag. The Panga tips the scales at 5.2 pounds. It is also one of the more expensive duffel dry bags that we tested, but for peace of mind, sometimes that price is worth it. These downsides are probably tolerable if you're looking to protect valuable electronics and equipment in a wet environment, or if you need the versatility of one bag to meet any potential needs. The Watershed Colorado Duffel is another 100% waterproof dry bag we love to use, with a slightly more flexible design and a lower price tag, though it is a little more involved to seal against the elements.

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How We Test Duffel Bags

The legwork for this review began well over a decade ago when we first researched and tested duffel bags on some wild expeditions around the world in 2010. Since then, we've kept up with the duffel market, continually getting the top duffel bags and even testing multiple iterations and sizes of our favorite models. For each iteration and update, we select the best, most popular, and most interesting duffels on the market to purchase and take into the field for extensive hands-on testing. In addition to surviving our lab testing, some bags have gone on climbing trips to the French Alps, got dragged across glaciers in Alaska, found themselves stowed in the forest in Patagonia, and hauled paddling gear to the Indian Ocean. We've also tossed them in the back of cars for weekend adventures, sports practice, road trips, workouts at the gym, and Ironman races. To learn more about our testing process, check out our How We Test article.

• Storage and Ease of Packing (30% of overall score)
• Ease of Transport (30% of score)
• Protection (15% of score)
• Construction Quality (15% of score)
• Weight-to-Volume Ratio (10% of score)

Why You Should Trust Us

This review is brought to you by several longtime GearLab contributors: Maggie Nichols , Miya Tsudome , Nick Bruckbauer , and Hale Milano . Maggie has been an avid adventurer and backcountry guide for over 15 years. She has taught courses and skills in the Galapagos and South Africa, guided trips in the Virgin Islands and the American West, and spent months visiting far-flung places like Svalbard and Senegal, living out of her duffel bag. Miya is a climber, professional mountain guide, and photographer based in California's Eastern Sierra and can regularly be found hauling gear to and from her favorite climbing crag. Nick has a competitive running background and is an all-around outdoorsman. He has snorkeled in Thailand and the Maldives, trekked in Nepal, skied in Alaska, and climbed and skied 14ers in Washington, California, and Colorado. Hale is a Type-II fun junkie and gear addict, who has climbed in Norway, snowboarded across the Swiss and Italian border, trekked solo through Patagonia, and dove shipwrecks in Vanuatu. He's traveled to over 30 countries and lived out of duffel bags for months at a time. Maggie, Miya, Nick, and Hale all regularly use duffel bags to haul their belongings and gear on their adventures around the world, and they know what it takes to make a great duffel bag for journeys near home or on the far side of the globe.

How to Choose The Best Duffel Bag

Below is an excerpt from our complete duffel bag buying advice .

Why Choose a Duffel?

Duffel bags offer a utilitarian approach to carrying luggage that provides more versatility than traditional hardshell bags. Using a duffel while traveling provides more room for gear and clothing while offering a lighter form than other luggage styles. When looking at the world of duffel bags, it's important to consider the type of travel you need a duffel for. Some folks may need a multi-week bag capable of carrying an array of gear, while others just need a simple bag to carry clothes to work, the gym, or school.

What Size Works Best?

Once you know the style of duffel you need, it should help naturally lead towards the appropriate volume. Typically, a duffel bag under 40 liters is suitable for quick, overnight trips, while a duffel in the 50 to 70-liter range will work well for weekend trips. Bags in the 80-100 liter range work great for longer trips over a week or more but can usually avoid tipping over that 50 lb airline weight limit. For those with specialized gear or extended travel, bags upwards of 150 liters are worth considering.

What Features Should You Look For?

Certain features can make or break a good duffel bag. Consider the different carrying strap styles, such as shoulder straps, hand straps, or backpack straps. If you plan on walking extended distances and carrying larger loads, it's a good idea to consider duffels with backpack-style straps. Internal organization features, such as pockets and compression straps, can also provide easier access to belongings and secure them from moving around inside the bag. Consider your typical travel routines and luggage contents to find a bag with the most useful features for you.

Is Durability Important?

Depending on your travel style and intended use, a duffel bag with proven durability can be a high priority. This is especially true for folks who plan to travel into weather-prone areas, camp or hike with their duffel, or just want extra security when checking in their bag at the airport. Look for waterproof materials and coatings, reinforced areas around the bag, and the material itself.

Analysis and Test Results

To help you find the best duffel bag , we evaluated every product in our lineup across five essential performance metrics. We used the overall weighted scores to determine our top rankings. To learn how each bag performs in specific areas, read on.

The price for duffel bags ranges greatly from the least expensive to the most expensive bag. Generally, prices tend to correlate with the size of the bag and the quality of the material it is made from. The Patagonia Black Hole is one of the pricier models in our lineup, but its sticker price is only slightly higher than the high-value Gregory Alpaca . Aside from the more expensive Mountain Hardwear Expedition , there is a very minimal price spread among the seven or eight top-scoring adventure duffels in our lineup. All of these products have robust materials and high-quality designs, so it is easy to justify their expense.

On the other end of the spectrum, the HYC00 Travel and REI Roadtripper are among the least expensive duffel bags in our entire review. Although the size, durability, and versatility are compromised compared to the more robust products mentioned above, both have their own merits. The HYC00's design makes it perfect for weekend car trips, and the REI Roadtripper's low weight and large capacity design make it a good choice for hauling lots of gear. Among our smaller-sized duffels, there is a more noticeable price spread that is dependent mostly on the quality of materials used and the bag's construction quality.

Storage and Ease of Packing

While most of these duffel bags have plenty of capacity to haul heavy loads for extended durations, each model has different nuances that impact its storage efficiency, organization capabilities, and ease of packing. In this category, we first compared each bag's overall storage compartment and how easy it was to load with both typical travel items and oddly shaped equipment. We considered whether the bag held its shape while empty to aid in packing and whether straps, flaps, and zippers got in the way. We also analyzed how useful smaller pockets or compartments were for keeping gear organized and the ease of accessing both the smaller pockets and the main compartment.

After dozens of trips to the field and direct side-by-side comparisons in the lab, we nearly always prefer the big D-shaped zippered openings rather than the straight "I" style zippers. Many of the larger duffels we tested have D-shaped openings, which makes it much easier to access the contents of your pack and securely fit more cargo since the flap can fold completely out of the way. Smaller duffels tended to have I-shaped openings, which were easier to zip but limited accessibility. Some of the most travel-focused options have heavy-duty zippers that can be locked and zipper pulls to help close up bags packed to capacity.

Our testers appreciated the unique packing system of the Mountain Hardwear Expedition , which features a main zipper that zips all the way out to flaps on either side of the bag to create an extra large opening, as well as a stiff collar on the inside that can be folded out for easy, unencumbered access to the interior.

A bag's ease of packing is an important feature, and everyone has struggled to zip closed a fully stuffed bag when it is overloaded just beyond its capacity. In this case, we appreciated the internal compression straps found on many of the bags, including the Osprey Transporter , Patagonia Black Hole , and Mountain Hardwear Expedition . The Expedition also features an exterior compression strap that helps even more when struggling to close an overstuffed bag — simply tighten the strap down and zip from either end for a stress-free packing experience.

The majority of bags we tested feature cavernous internal storage compartments well equipped to haul a ton of gear or clothes. While that's all fine and dandy, a few internal or external zippered pockets are crucial for avoiding smaller items getting lost in the abyss. It's even more necessary for separating wet shoes or dirty laundry.

The most impressive bag we tested when it comes to pockets is the Cotopaxi Allpa Duo , which has eight extra pockets (three internal and five external), plus a full-length laundry compartment on the bottom.

The Thule Chasm has two massive mesh pockets on the bottom side of the lid and a third hanging inside, plus an external pocket on top. Similarly, the Patagonia Black Hole 100L , the REI Big Haul , the Gregory Alpaca 90L , and the Mountain Hardwear Expedition 100 each have one external pocket and two internal pockets. The smaller versions of both the Black Hole and Alpaca lacked dedicated external pockets, but we loved the zippered mesh pouches on the inside of the lid.

While they don't win any competitions for storage or small organization compartments, we need to give credit to both The North Face Base Camp and the REI Roadtripper for the sheer volume and depth of their main compartments and their ability to pack away large quantities of equipment.

If huge volume is what you're after, many of the bags we tested are also sold in 100-liter sizes and larger, including the Patagonia Black Hole available in sizes up to 100 liters, the 104-liter Amazon Basics Large Nylon , the Osprey Transporter , Gregory Alpaca , REI Big Haul that can be purchased as large as 120 liters, the Thule Chasm (up to 130 liters), the Mountain Hardwear Expedition and REI Roadtripper (up to 140 liters), and The North Face Base Camp, which is made as large as 150 liters.

Our last standout from our storage and organization tests is the HYC00 Travel bag. Although we weren't fans of the I-shaped zipper that limited accessibility and overall storage space (tapering the bag at the top), we loved the internal organization pockets. The HYC00 has a dedicated lay-flat storage compartment underneath for shoes or clothes, two internal zipper pockets, and three internal mesh pouches for organizing small items. It also holds its shape relatively well, even when empty.

Ease of Transport

Part of what separates duffel bags from other luggage styles is that they are typically available in much larger sizes that can make them difficult and awkward to lug around. They're also designed to make transport more manageable. Each bag we tested may employ up to four distinct carrying systems: traditional briefcase-style carry handles, backpack straps, over-the-shoulder slings, and grab handles (wheeled duffels are in our best luggage review). Each of these carrying methods can be useful depending on the situation and length of travel. Grab handles are convenient for hauling into or out of vehicles or luggage racks, and briefcase-style grips and shoulder slings are ideal for carrying a shorter distance and when you have other pieces of luggage to haul. Backpack straps are the most comfortable and efficient method for heavier loads or over longer distances. Daisy chain attachment points make it easier to lash a bag to a vehicle, cart, or pack animal, and easily removable straps help protect your investment from wear and tear during air travel. If you want to go extra fast and light or need to carry your belongings over longer distances, you might want to consider one of the best travel backpacks instead.

Many of the adventure duffels in our lineup have included backpack straps, making them easier to carry when fully loaded. Different models have slightly different strap geometry, padding levels, and adjustability ranges. The Osprey Transporter goes above and beyond in this category. It has the most comfortable backpack carry system, including well-padded shoulder straps and an adjustable chest strap. The backpack harness on the Transporter can be quickly stowed inside its storage compartment on the top lid and easily deployed again with only two side release buckles. While this bag does not include traditional briefcase-style carry handles, it has four heavy-duty padded grab handles — one on each end — that make it simple to lug around or to carry by your side for moderate distances. Even as one of the larger bags in our lineup, the Transporter is a breeze to load up and haul out.

The Thule Chasm is another impressively comfortable backpack carry model. Though it lacks the sternum strap of the Osprey Transporter , the Chasm's backpack straps are very comfortable. They quickly detach with a T grip at the top and plastic buckles at the bottom for easy conversion. It also features snaps on the sides to hold the suitcase-style handles out of the way when you don't need them.

Not far behind is the Mountain Hardwear Expedition with its supremely comfortable backpack straps. The Patagonia Black Hole , Gregory Alpaca , The North Face Base Camp , Cotopaxi Allpa Duo , and the REI Big Haul also have reasonably comfortable shoulder straps for carrying heavy loads over longer distances. All of these models also have traditional briefcase-style carry straps and reinforced grab handles on their sides and ends for versatile carrying options.

Most of the larger products we tested forgo a traditional single, messenger-style shoulder sling in favor of the more comfortable and efficient backpack straps. Sometimes, it's just easier to sling the bag over your shoulder, though — like if you're only carrying for a short distance or if you're hauling multiple pieces of luggage at once. You can adjust the length of most of the backpack straps to make it easier to sling the bag over a shoulder, although frequently, the padding doesn't line up correctly to protect your shoulder, or the bag's balance feels awkward. The Patagonia Black Hole has highly adjustable shoulder straps and extended padding, both of which help facilitate comfortable carrying on one shoulder. The Mountain Hardwear Expedition also includes a convenient shoulder sling carry option with adjustable strap systems.

Smaller bags in our lineup, like the Peak Design Travel 35L , HYC00 Travel , Adidas Defender Small , and Herschel Novel forgo backpack straps entirely, featuring the quick one-shoulder sling and suitcase handles that are ideal for lighter weight bags and shorter carrying distances. While most are fixed options, the Peak Design handles and straps are all able to be adjusted to one of ten attachment points around the bag. It's slightly tedious to do so, but it does provide some customized carry options.

Both the 100-liter REI Roadtripper and the 104-liter Amazon Basics Large Nylon duffels are impractically large to be carried backpack style, not to mention they lack any rigidity to support the weight. Both of these bags have a beefy shoulder strap that lets you lug them to the car, if arduously.

If you've traveled to far-flung destinations around the world, you've probably seen your luggage strapped down to some form of transportation. During the years of testing for this review, we've had duffels carried by llamas, mules, horses, snowmobiles, motorcycles, campers, small prop planes, and helicopters. We've also pulled them ourselves, lashed to a sled deep in the Alaskan wilderness. Most of the products in our test group feature robust daisy chains (externally mounted webbing with sewn loops) that are versatile and easy to use to securely attach your duffel to various modes of transportation. Other single attachment loops, large grab handles, or permanently affixed shoulder straps are also useful when you need to secure your load.

Most of the highest-rated products in our lineup include daisy chains or some kind of external attachment loops. The Patagonia Black Hole , Gregory Alpaca , Cotopaxi Allpa Duo , and The North Face Base Camp all stand out for their robust and extensive daisy chain features. The Thule Chasm , REI Big Haul , and Mountain Hardwear Expedition are also noteworthy with their sturdy, reinforced daisy chain loops that are thicker and stronger than most.

Counter to the beefy and reinforced adventure-style duffels, the Adidas Defender , HYC00 Travel , and Herschel Novel are all smaller bags that rely on their lightweight and compact size to make them easy to transport. With an impressively low weight, the Adidas Defender is particularly easy to toss over your shoulder, under a bus seat, or in a locker.

Whether you're loading up the vehicle on a damp day, anxiously cringing as airport personnel toss around your bag on the tarmac, or slogging through boggy or snowy conditions, protection from mother nature and bumps along the way is crucial. We took these bags on worldly expeditions to challenging climates like Denali, Bolivia, Aconcagua, Central Chile, and Patagonia. Additionally, we tested them on road trips, camping trips, and beach outings. We sat them outside during a tropical storm to test for seepage over several hours of light rain, along with putting them through the wringer by running systematic tests involving drenching them with a high-pressure garden hose with dry towels and clothes inside.

The rankings for weather resistance look relatively similar to our durability ratings — bags with heavier-duty materials tend to perform better. One difference is that models with multiple exterior pockets and additional zippered closures are a bit more vulnerable to the outside elements. Simpler designs with fewer openings offer better protection. The North Face Base Camp scores well with its 1000-denier material and limited vulnerabilities. After our high-pressure hose test, the dry paper towels inside it showed no signs of water intrusion. The Osprey Transporter scored equally well and only had a few drops of water intrude through the zipper area. Both bags have a one-inch protective flap where the top lid overlaps the main zipper. While neither bag has sealed seams to make them waterproof like a true dry bag , they both provide excellent protection from the weather.

Several of the remaining top contenders all scored similarly well in this performance metric. The Patagonia Black Hole , Gregory Alpaca , and the Thule Chasm all provide exceptional protection from the elements. The Black Hole and Alpaca passed the long-duration exposure to the elements just fine, with water beading right off their 900-denier fabric. Both did, however, succumb to water leaks via their zippers during the high-pressure hose test. The Thule is one of the few duffels to have a sealed external zipper, something we really appreciated for a phone or keys.

Most of the remaining bags in our lineup, like the Herschel Novel , Cotopaxi Allpa Duo , and REI Roadtripper , have waterproof or water-resistant fabrics but don't have sealed seams or waterproof zippers. All of these bags will repel some light rain, snow, splashes, and spills but won't withstand extended downpours or complete submersion.

Construction Quality

Almost all of the contenders in our lineup are super durable, made from robust materials, with reinforced bottom panels and heavy-duty seams. Most of the bags we tested are constructed from a high-denier laminate or high-denier ballistic nylon. Denier (also denoted as "D" behind a number) is the measure of a material's thread thickness and density, and a higher number corresponds to a thicker, sturdier, more durable fabric. Our lineup includes a wide range of possible bag fabrics, from heavy-duty expedition packs made of 1000-denier materials plus additional reinforced areas to easily compressible nylon bags. We are also pleased to note that many of the bags leverage recycled materials as well.

The tried and true The North Face Base Camp set the tone for durability decades ago with its burly 1000-denier body material, and a similar heavy-duty construction has spread to several other manufacturers. Many of the top models in our fleet used at least a 900-denier nylon or polyester material throughout the duffel, with an additional reinforcement layer of at least 600-denier nylon on the bottom or other high-wear areas. One of our testers has used a Base Camp duffel on over 20 rugged expeditions to remote locations and in extreme conditions, and it's still going strong.

With fabrics ranging from 840 to 900-denier, the Patagonia Black Hole , Gregory Alpaca , Thule Chasm , Cotopaxi Allpa Duo , Osprey Transporter and Mountain Hardwear Expedition are similarly sturdy. This level of fabric thickness is still very robust and can withstand a lot of abuse. All of these bags also have strongly reinforced seams and include sturdy hardware. The Black Hole and Alpaca also feature ripstop fabric to protect you against a worst-case scenario.

Another standout in our construction quality metric is the Herschel Novel , constructed from 600-denier fabric and a liner that is made from 100% post-consumer water bottles. Not only do we love the eco-friendly materials, but this fabric felt durable and looked incredibly stylish. The seams and hardware on the bag are of excellent quality as well. While we might not want to strap it down to a muddy vehicle or drag it behind us, we're confident that the Herschel would stand up to the wear and tear.

The Peak Design bag is a very impressive model and clearly has a high level of craftsmanship and design that went into its creation. We'd feel just as comfortable using it to lug gear around as to pack up for a business trip. It, too, used a 100% recycled 600-denier canvas and a thicker bottom liner. While we had no complaints about the overall construction quality upon examination or issues regarding its durability, we were disappointed to note that the supposedly weatherproof zippers failed to stop water into the bag and side pockets. This led us to slightly doubt the overall construction quality of the bag. Nevertheless, we still thought the Peak Design felt durable and well-made.

Weight-to-Volume Ratio

Once you've filled a duffel bag full of gear, you may not notice the initial weight of the bag. However, it can make a difference when you're trying to stay within an airline's weight limits or when the transportation switches from vehicles to your own two feet.

Since this lineup includes tested bags ranging from 30 liters to 104 liters in size, we calculated the weight-to-volume ratio for each bag to measure its relative weight.

Our two top-scoring bags for our weight-to-volume metric are two of our largest. The REI Roadtripper and Amazon Basics Large Nylon bags weighed in at 1.6 pounds and 1.8 pounds, respectively, and each offered roughly 100 liters of internal storage space. Their excellent ratio is thanks to their stunningly simple design and a lack of extra features, fabric, and pockets found on many of our more rugged bags. Still, if you're looking for bulk hauling capacity and don't require much protection from the elements, these are both great options.

The Adidas Defender is one of the lightest bags in our lineup but offers significantly less storage space than other bags. This ultralight 1.0-pound bag still boasts enough space to pack anything you might need for the gym or practice session without weighing you down.

The Osprey Transporter , Mountain Hardwear Expedition , and Eagle Creek Migrate are all rugged adventure bags that still offer a good tradeoff between weight and storage volume. They are constructed from medium-thickness fabrics, providing a nice balance of durability and weight savings.

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Best Duffel Bags of 2024

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

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

Our Team's Duffel Bag Picks

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

Best Overall Duffel Bag

1. patagonia black hole 55 ($169).

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

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

Best Budget Duffel Bag

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

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

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

Best Carry-On Duffel Bag

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

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

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

Best Weekender Duffel Bag

4. thule aion duffel bag ($190).

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

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

Best High-Capacity Wheeled Duffel

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

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

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

Best Ultralight/Packable Duffel Bag

6. osprey ultralight stuff duffel ($45).

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

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

Best Waterproof Duffel Bag

7. yeti panga 75 ($350).

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

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

9. Mountain Hardwear Expedition Duffel 100 ($280)

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

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

10. Gregory Supply 90 ($120)

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

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

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

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

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

12. Black Diamond Stonehauler 60L ($190)

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

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

13. Eagle Creek Migrate 60L ($129)

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

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

14. Gregory Alpaca 60 ($160)

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

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

15. Cotopaxi Allpa 70L ($200)

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

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

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

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

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

17. Mountain Hardwear Camp 4 65 ($140)

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

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

18. Backcountry All Around 60L ($139)

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

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

  19. SealLine WideMouth Duffel 70L ($165)

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

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

Duffel Bag Comparison Table

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

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

Water Resistance

• Packability  

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  Pockets and Organization

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

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

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

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

Carrying Options: Backpack Straps, Shoulder Straps, Handles

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

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

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

  Durability (Denier)

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

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

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

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

Packability

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

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