Best Products Style Travel Bags The 12 Best Rolling Backpacks, Duffels, and Weekenders of 2023 The roomy, carry-on-friendly Solo Leroy Rolling Duffel is our top pick. By Jill Schildhouse Jill Schildhouse Instagram Twitter Website As a travel writer with 22 years of experience in print and digital publishing, Jill Schildhouse has traveled to 36 countries and is always busy planning her next adventure. She's a self-proclaimed "medium-maintenance" packer, so she's always busy testing travel products and loves finding solutions that can serve a dual purpose. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines Updated on January 20, 2023 Fact checked by Rich Scherr Fact checked by Rich Scherr Rich Scherr is a seasoned journalist and editor who has traveled across the U.S., Canada, and Europe, and spent more than a decade reviewing hotel room. Travel + Leisure Fact Checking Process Share Tweet Pin Email In This Article Expand Jump to a Section Our top picks Reviews Tips for Buying FAQ Why Trust T+L In This Article We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best products—learn more about our process. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. Patagonia / Backcountry It wasn’t so long ago that travelers were forced to carry their luggage by hand, no matter how heavy it was. Thankfully times have changed, and lugging bags around has gotten much easier thanks to the addition of wheels and telescoping handles. Now, rolling backpacks, duffels, and weekenders are a common choice for travelers who don’t need an entire spinner suitcase for their journey. Of course, you still want to avoid overpacking and learn how to pack a suitcase like an expert (hint: the same rules apply when packing backpacks, duffels, and weekenders) because there will always be instances where you’re forced to lift your wheeled bag by hand. Whether you’re headed out on a weekend getaway or embarking on a family vacation, a wheeled duffel — like our top pick, the carry-on-friendly and well-organized Solo Leroy Rolling Duffel — may be exactly what you need. Prefer a wheeled backpack or weekender? Our list includes those too, along with options that are budget-friendly, splurge-worthy, and tough enough for your most intense adventures. These are the best rolling backpacks, duffels, and weekenders to shop. Our Top Picks Best Overall: Solo Rolling Duffel at Amazon Jump to Review Best Budget: Samsonite Andante 2 Wheeled Rolling Duffel Bag at Amazon Jump to Review Most Durable: Eddie Bauer Duffel 2.0 at Amazon Jump to Review Best Organization: Topo Designs Roller Bag at Nordstrom Jump to Review Best Backpack With Wheels: Ebags Rolling Travel Backpack at Amazon Jump to Review Best Duffel With Wheels: The North Face Rolling Thunder 22-Inch Carry-On Bag at Amazon Jump to Review Best Weekender With Wheels: My Style Bags Large Trolley Cordura at Mystylebags.com Jump to Review Most Lightweight: Delsey Paris Duffel Bag at Amazon Jump to Review Best Large Capacity: Eagle Creek 130L Cargo Hauler Rolling Duffel at Amazon Jump to Review Best Splurge: Briggs & Riley Two-Wheel Duffle at Amazon Jump to Review Best Overall Solo Leroy Rolling Duffel Solo View On Amazon View On Walmart View On Belk.com Why We Love It: There’s a separate shoe compartment, large capacity, and multiple organizational pockets.What to Consider: There’s no shoulder strap and the bag tends to tip over when packed full. Nobody will ever know you aren’t a light packer when toting Solo’s Leroy Rolling Duffel around. On the outside, it looks like a stylish and quite unassuming 49-liter bag, but the inside is incredibly roomy — enough so for five pairs of pants, six dress shirts, a toiletry kit, and several pairs of shoes. Two pockets on the front offer convenient access to snacks, tech, or travel documents, while the push-button handle and wheels make it easy to maneuver when your hands are too full for top handles. This duffel meets the carry-on requirements for most major airlines, which means you’ll save on checked baggage fees when flying — and, at only 6 pounds, placing it in the overhead bin won’t be a Herculean effort. While you could store shoes in the zippered side compartment, it’s also a nice spot for separating dirty clothes from the clean ones inside. The organizational details don’t end here, as you’ll also find an interior mesh pocket ideal for storing smaller items that could sink to the bottom. Price at time of publish: $142 Weight: 6.04 pounds | Material: Polyester | Dimensions: 12 x 22 x 12 inches | Capacity: 49 liters Best Budget Samsonite Andante 2 Wheeled Rolling Duffel Bag 4.5 Amazon View On Amazon View On Samsonite.com View On Jcpenney.com Why We Love It: An update to the original Andante, this version offers a more refined look with new convenience features.What to Consider: There’s no shoulder strap, and it may not fit some overhead bins when packed full. Not every rolling duffel needs to break the bank, and the Samsonite Andante 2 delivers simplicity and functionality alongside an enticing price tag. This bag is constructed from a water-resistant dobby polyester, which means it will hold up to more than a few raindrops while you’re getting from point A to point B. The shoe pocket keeps the soles of your footwear away from your clean clothes, and the U-shaped opening makes it easy to pack and live out of this bag. Roll this duffel on its in-line wheels by grabbing the locking pull handle, or grab it by the various handle options placed conveniently on three of its sides — it’s nice to have options. Price at time of publish: $63 Weight: 5.2 pounds | Material: Water-resistant polyester | Dimensions: 22 x 12.5 x 12.5 inches | Capacity: Not Listed Most Durable Eddie Bauer Expedition 22 Duffel 2.0 Amazon View On Amazon View On Eddiebauer.com Why We Love It: This carry-on-friendly rolling duffel is built to last thanks to its reinforced wheels and water-repellent construction. What to Consider: It’s on the pricier side, but this investment should last for many years to come. Whether you’re a nonstop globetrotter or just hard on your luggage, there’s no need to treat your Eddie Bauer Expedition 22 Duffel 2.0 gingerly. This bag is constructed from tough polycarbonate and nylon that also repels water, so you can confidently tow it through any unexpected weather that comes your way. The brand's patented “Stand Alone” technology means the duffel will stay upright whether it's empty or completely full. Inside, you’ll find a three-section main compartment — where you can keep everything packed snugly with integrated compression straps — and a separate laundry section outfitted with odor-control technology. Rolling your bag over cobblestone streets or gravel? The reinforced inline skate wheels can handle it. Price at time of publish: $249 Weight: 6.8 pounds| Material: Nylon | Dimensions: 22 x 13 x 10 inches | Capacity: 45 liters The 4 Best Compression Packing Cubes of 2023, Tested and Reviewed Best Organization Topo Designs Global Travel Roller Bag Backcountry View On Nordstrom View On Backcountry.com View On Topodesigns.com Why We Love It: With front zippered slip pockets, a valuables pocket, and dual mesh and lined pockets inside, this duffel practically forces you to stay organized.What to Consider: Overpacking the front exterior pockets may make the bag a tight fit in an overhead bin. It’s not always easy to stay organized on the road, especially when using duffel bags, which are notorious for only having one compartment — but the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag Roller will change your mind. This bag has pockets for days, which means you’ll always know exactly where to find your big and small items. You’ll also have options when it comes to how to carry this duffel when it's not rolling along on its crush-proof wheels: you can use the side grab handles or stowable backpack straps as needed. One more feature to love? It’s made from recycled nylon and PC plastic. Price at time of publish: $289 Weight: 6.6 pounds | Material: Recycled nylon | Dimensions: 13.5 x 21 x 9 inches | Capacity: 44 liters Best Backpack With Wheels Ebags Mother Lode Rolling Travel Backpack Amazon View On Amazon View On Ebags.com Why We Love It: The moderately priced Mother Lode offers a limited lifetime warranty, an updated design to reduce weight, and the convenience of a convertible rolling backpack.What to Consider: It’s almost 10 pounds empty, so you may want to wheel it instead of carrying it on your shoulders. Being flexible while traveling is the name of the game, so start your journey with a bag that’s flexible too. The Ebags Mother Lode Rolling Travel Backpack makes it easy to move between planes, trains, boats, and automobiles thanks to its ability to quickly transition from a wheeled bag to a backpack. Savvy travelers will also love the additional convenience features, including a side-zip water bottle pocket, a telescopic handle that adjusts to three heights, and interior and exterior compression straps to keep everything as compact as possible. Price at time of publish: $170 Weight: 9.55 pounds | Material: Polyester | Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9 inches | Capacity: 48 liters Best Duffel With Wheels The North Face Rolling Thunder 22-Inch Carry-On Bag 4.5 The North Face View On Amazon View On REI View On Backcountry.com Why We Love It: Durability, style, and convenience unite in the Rolling Thunder, making it a solid choice for no-frills travelers.What to Consider: The sporty look may not appeal to all travelers. While the devil may be in the details, The North Face Rolling Thunder 22-inch bag maintains an air of simplicity. It earns extra points for durability, with a back-panel structure, plastic bumpers to reduce wear and tear, and its water-repellent Base Camp body material. Two external pockets allow for easy storage of items you need to grab quickly, and an internal mesh pocket keeps things organized. The wheels even have some tread on them, ideal for traction no matter the weather, or road, conditions. Price at time of publish: $270 Weight: 7.5 pounds | Material: Recycled polyester and nylon | Dimensions: 14 x 22 x 8.5 inches | Capacity: 40 liters Best Weekender With Wheels My Style Bags Harvard Large Trolley Cordura My Style Bags View On Mystylebags.com Why We Love It: It’s not easy to find a stylish weekender bag that rolls, nevermind one that you can customize with a name or monogram.What to Consider: It only comes in navy. Never risk a well-intentioned stranger accidentally snatching your bag again, because this Harvard Large Trolley Cordura comes with the option for personalization. For a small extra fee, add your monogram or name — you even have a choice of size, font, and color to best match your travel style. The bag is made of waterproof nylon with a waterproof inner lining to protect your investment from spills and splashes but doesn’t look nearly as rugged as it is thanks to the chic, dark brown leather details. Price at time of publish: $390 Weight: 5.2 pounds | Material: Waterproof nylon, leather accents | Dimensions: 55 x 37 x 27 inches | Capacity: 35 liters Most Lightweight Delsey Paris Maubert 2.0 24-inch Duffel Bag Amazon View On Amazon View On Bloomingdales View On Delsey.com Why We Love It: At less than 5 pounds, there’s more room to work with to stay under an airline’s weight limit. What to Consider: It’s technically too large to work as a carry-on bag. A spacious and stylish rolling duffel that weighs in at less than 5 pounds? Those are just three reasons to love the 24-inch Delsey Paris Maubert 2.0 Duffel Bag, but don’t forget about the interlocking sliders for use with TSA-approved padlocks and an RFID-protected pocket for extra security. This line is also eco-friendly, thanks to its vegan leather accents and the fact that the fabric and lining are made from 25 recycled plastic bottles. When not in use, this bag stores flat for supreme space-saving. Price at time of publish: $150 Weight: 4.7 pounds | Material: Polyester | Dimensions: 12 x 25 x 12 inches | Capacity: 57 liters Best Large Capacity Eagle Creek 130L Cargo Hauler Rolling Duffel 4.6 Amazon View On Amazon View On Backcountry.com View On Eaglecreek.com Why We Love It: You can fit everything you need (and then some) into this 130-liter bag — and it even converts to a backpack.What to Consider: It’s harder to pull because there is no frame, and the handle may be too short for taller travelers. When space is the most important thing on your travel wish list, turn to the lightweight Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler Wheeled Duffel — it holds 129 liters worth of clothing, toiletries, electronics, and souvenirs. Despite its lightweight stature, the designers still managed to include everything you need, from oversized treaded wheels and compression straps to zip-away backpack straps and lockable zippers. The fabric is abrasion-resistant and water-repellent, and there’s also a storm flap to shield the zipper from rain. Even with all these precautions, your bag is covered by Eagle Creek’s No Matter What warranty. Price at time of publish: $199 Weight: 4.7 pounds | Material: Polyester | Dimensions: 34 x 13.75 x 15 inches | Capacity: 129 liters The 12 Best Travel Pouches of 2023 Best Splurge Briggs & Riley Medium Two-Wheel Duffle Briggs & Riley View On Amazon View On Briggs-riley.com Why We Love It: Monogrammed leather detailing and an aircraft-grade aluminum telescoping handle with multiple heights are just two qualities that make this bag splurge-worthy.What to Consider: It’s already 10 pounds when empty. Feel like you’re traveling first class even if you’re stuck in coach with the sleek and sophisticated Briggs & Riley Medium Two-Wheel Duffle. The unusual two-section design features a typical duffel section and a flat packing section beneath perfect for shoes and a toiletry bag. There’s also a mesh pocket inside and a large front pocket for hassle-free access to the items you need most. As you would expect, the interior is fully lined, and there’s also a hide-away leather ID tag, a TSA cable combination lock, and high-density wheels for smooth rolling. Perhaps the best part? This bag collapses for storage in tight spaces. Price at time of publish: $629 Weight: 10.3 pounds | Material: Ballistic nylon | Dimensions: 26 x 14 x 15.375 inches | Capacity: 90 liters Best Carry-on Approved Patagonia Black Hole 40L Rolling Duffle Bag Nordstrom View On Nordstrom View On Patagonia.com Why We Love It: As the smallest in the brand’s line of wheeled options, this 40L Black Hole is a welcome guest in the overhead bins of any commercial aircraft. What to Consider: The logo may be a little too prominent for some tastes. Nobody wants to pay extra for checked luggage these days, which is why the push for minimalistic packing in a carry-on is all the rage. The 40L Patagonia Black Hole Wheeled Duffel Bag won’t let you down on board a flight, yet still has plenty of room for a multi-day trip. It’s made with 100% recycled body fabric, lining, and webbing, which helps protect the planet you’re so excited to see. While there are no carrying straps on the top (which many duffels offer), you can carry this bag like a briefcase with the side handle — and there’s a handle on the end, which makes it easy to take in and out of overhead bins as well. Price at time of publish: $359 Weight: 7 pounds | Material: Recycled polyester | Dimensions: 21.6 x 14 x 9.5 inches | Capacity: 40 liters Best No-tip Design L.L.Bean Adventure Large Rolling Duffle Bag L.L.Bean View On L.L.Bean Why We Love It: It’s newly redesigned with a base that will stand upright without tipping over. What to Consider: It lacks pockets and other organizational features. Rolling duffel bags are notorious for tipping over, which can be really awkward on a busy day of traveling when you need an extra hand but can’t let go without worrying that you’ll accidentally trip someone. Enter the L.L.Bean Adventure Rolling Duffle Bag, which received a redesign to eliminate this common problem. Aside from its upright stature, it comes in eight colors to match any travel aesthetic, and you can add a monogram for personalization, too. The solid colors are made from nylon, while the print colors are polyester, but both are coated with water-resistant polyurethane for increased durability. Price at time of publish: $159 Weight: 8.2 pounds | Material: Nylon/polyester | Dimensions: 13 x 30 x 15 inches | Capacity: 93 liters Tips for Buying Rolling Backpacks, Duffels, and Weekenders Check your airline's size requirements Hate being surprised by having to check a bag and pony up for unexpected fees? Before you select a bag to purchase, check with your airline to determine if that bag is “airline-approved,” meaning it meets carry-on or personal item size specs for Southwest, American, United, and Delta. Remember, these restrictions not only vary by airline, but by domestic and international flights, too. Prioritize comfort over style Rolling bags are incredibly convenient for most any travel style, but there will be times you can’t always rely on the wheels — like when maneuvering down an aircraft’s narrow aisle, navigating stairs, or encountering rough roads or carpet. Be sure that the bag you choose has enough alternative carrying options, such as a shoulder strap or side handles, that will allow you to comfortably and confidently handle it yourself. Decide what style suits your trip If you anticipate you’ll be running through airports or train platforms to make tight connections, it may be best to choose a rolling backpack or weekender bag instead of a larger duffel. For a longer trip, aim for a rolling duffel bag that will hold everything in one convenient spot. On many airlines, you’ll have enough room to stuff a 22-inch rolling duffel into the overhead bin and place a smaller rolling backpack or weekender under the seat in front of you as your personal item but always check the carrier’s rules before heading to the airport. Frequently Asked Questions What’s the difference between a weekender and a duffel bag? Weekender bags are usually smaller in size, truly living up to their name as something you can pack a few days’ worth of clothes in. They often feature chic stitching and upgraded material, such as leather. Duffel bags, on the other hand, tend to be more utilitarian in design and a bit larger for longer trips. While there are often pockets and other organization features, the emphasis is on practicality versus style. What is a good size duffel bag to carry? Even though a rolling duffel has wheels, there will be times you need to carry it. Aim for a duffel with a capacity of 45 liters or less, which will likely be 22 inches in length (or smaller), and manageable for most travelers. Can a rolling backpack, duffel, or weekender count as my carry-on? Yes, assuming the dimensions and weight meet the specifications outlined by your particular airline. The standard carry-on dimensions for most airlines are 22 x 14 x 9 inches. Why Trust Travel + Leisure For this article, T+L contributor Jill Schildhouse researched dozens of bags and tapped into her extensive travel experience to pick the best wheeled backpacks, duffels, and weekenders. 18 Carry-on Essentials T+L Editors Can’t Travel Without in 2023 Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit