The 6 Best Duffel Bags of 2023, Tested and Reviewed

Our Testing Process

We ordered 25 of the most popular duffel bags on the market and tested them in our New York City lab. First, we weighed each duffel bag with a luggage scale and noted whether the weight was the same as the weight listed by the manufacturer or if it was more or less (and by how much). Then we measured the length, width, and depth (height) of each bag and made the same comparison.

Next, we got packing. We ordered dozens of identical outfits and packed three pairs of pants (a mix of jeans and sweats), two coats (one fleece, one jacket), five shirts, two pairs of shoes, a full toiletry bag, and a coffee mug into each bag. Our testers answered questions including: How well does everything fit? Is there enough space to keep the clothes tidy, or do you really have to jam them in there? Can you zip it up easily? We also took careful notes of the organizational and structural features of each bag as we packed, looking for useful pockets, compartments, sleeves, and other features.

Then we walked around carrying each bag after it was packed, spending several minutes trying out each possible carrying method and noting comfort and ease levels.

Finally, with the bags fully packed and zipped closed, we pushed them off of a ladder several times each, trying to make them land on different parts of the bag each time. We examined them for scratches, marks, scuffs, etc., and we opened the interior to be sure everything held up. We then carried the bags around again to check for any changes or problems.

After this in-person testing process, we collected feedback from testers and analyzed their information to give each product a rating up to five stars to ensure we only recommend the highest quality products.

Other Duffel Bags We Liked

Some of the duffel bags we tested did not make our list of recommendations. They all had positive attributes, but a few things held them back.

The North Face Base Camp Medium Duffel Bag: This bag performed so-so on most of our tests, but a finicky zipper that kept getting stuck kept it off our winners list.

Away The Everywhere Bag: There was just not enough space or durability performance to warrant inclusion for this otherwise sleek bag.

Tumi Double Expansion Travel Satchel: The bag looks good but it's a little too expensive for the very limited capacity.

Baboon to the Moon Go-Bag Big: While spacious, our testers found it awkward to carry for longer than a minute or two.

Carhartt Trade Series 2-in-1 Packable Duffle with Utility Pouch: It was fine overall, but the near-complete lack of organizational features meant it was not a standout.

Samsonite Tote-A-Ton Duffel Bag: The weight felt unevenly distributed when we carried this durable bag, and there's not much in the way of organizational help.

Tips for Buying a Duffel Bag

Comfort is key

If your duffel bag doesn't roll, then you will be carrying it; you want to make sure it's comfortable to do so. Look for duffels that are light weight and have padded straps, as well as different carrying options. Many duffels come with a detachable and adjustable shoulder strap, so you can ensure your bag is the perfect length for you. Consider a convertible duffel with backpack straps if carrying by hand or over one shoulder sounds uncomfortable. A good goal may also be to find a bag under three pounds so it starts out lightweight and won't minimize the amount of items you can pack.

Know your organization needs

Some duffels are simply single compartments, some have dividers, some have lots of pockets. For business travel, look for bags with laptop sleeves and pouches for things like chargers, keys, and wallets. If you're more of the spur-of-the-moment roadtripping type, a simple one-compartment bag lets you throw all your belongings in with ease and without too much thinking. If you want to keep dirty clothes separate from clean ones or your shoes away from your shirts, look for a bag with interior dividers. It's a matter of personal choice; just be sure to pay attention to details about pockets, pouches, shoe bags, etc. before making your purchase.

Look for durable materials

Whether your travels include a cross-country flight or a hike to your local campground, you need a bag that will survive the journey. Bags made of materials like nylon, polyester, and most vinyls are likely to be waterproof, protecting your bag from the elements. Meanwhile canvas and leather bags may not be water-resistant, but the thick and durable materials should prevent against rips and tears.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Chris Abell is the Associate Editorial Director at Travel + Leisure and has years of experience as a travel writer and editor. He and a team of travel editors selected 25 of the leading duffel bags on the market and designed several tests to determine which ones perform the best. Over two days, our editors tested the bags, thoroughly vetting each for organization, maneuverability, durability, and value.

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