The Best Travel Duffel Bags For Every Type of Traveler

The best travel duffel bags — Skip to a review

• The North Face Base Camp Voyager duffel
• Halfday Garment Duffel
• Patagonia Black Hole Duffel
• Lululemon City Adventurer Large Duffel
• Gregory Alpaca Duffel
• Nemo Double Hall Convertible Duffel

Travel duffel bags: A rundown of the top options

The North Face Base Camp Voyager duffel

Photo: Suzie Dundas

The 42-liter holds several days worth of clothing, and certainly has a more efficient use of space than trying to fit clothing in a backpack. Photo: Suzie Dundas

Photo: Suzie Dundas

The North Face Base Camp Voyager Duffel is a versatile travel bag that can be carried as a duffel or a backpack. It’s made from a lightweight, yet durable recycled material and features an external, padded laptop compartment that fits up to a 15-inch laptop. It also has an internal divider to keep your gear organized and an external water bottle holder for easy access to hydration. With comfortable handles and a convertible carrying system, this duffel is a great option for overnight trips or weekend getaways.
Users like its comfortable design, ample storage space, and its refined harness system. On average, it is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars based on almost 700 reviews. The price typically ranges from $124.95 to $135.00.

Check out Matador’s detailed review of The North Face Base Camp Voyager Duffel

The North Face Base Camp Voyager Duffel comes in three sizes: 32L, 42L, and 62L. Here’s a breakdown of the specs for each:

• Material: All three sizes are made with 300D recycled polyester tarpaulin with TPU laminate and a boot of 840D recycled ballistic nylon with a non-PFC DWR finish.
• Dimensions:
  32L: 22.7″ x 13.8″ x 8.7″ (57.6 cm x 35 cm x 22 cm)
  42L: 23″ x 14.7″ x 10.2″ (58.4 cm x 37.3 cm x 25.9 cm)
  62L: 27″ x 16″ x 12.45″ (68.6 cm x 40.6 cm x 31.6 cm)
• Weight:
  32L: 2 lbs (910 g)
  42L: 2 lbs 5 oz (1055 g)
  62L: 2 lbs 13 oz (1280 g)
• Capacity:
  32L: 1953 cubic inches (32 liters)
  42L: 2563 cubic inches (42 liters)
  62L: 3783 cubic inches (62 liters)

Other features: All three sizes include features like padded shoulder straps that convert to backpack straps, side carry handles, a removable divider, external water bottle pocket, daisy chain webbing for lashing on additional gear, and a secure-zip pocket for essentials. The 42L and 62L sizes also have an external, padded laptop compartment.

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Halfday Garment Duffel

The duffel is easy to carry even with three days worth of stuff in there. Photo: Tim Wenger

I kept my Birkenstocks hooked in the outside package. Photo: Tim Wenger

It's small but mighty. Photo: Tim Wenger

A nice button down and pair of dress shoes fit perfectly in here. Photo: Tim Wenger

The Halfday Garment Duffel is a two-in-one bag designed for wrinkle-free travel. It functions as both a hanging garment bag and a spacious duffel. This hybrid design allows you to pack dress shirts, suits, or dresses in the wrinkle-resistant compartment, and then utilize the separate duffel section for additional clothes, shoes, and toiletries.

The Halfday Garment Duffel comes in two sizes: Original and Compact. The Original is suitable for longer trips and can hold a suit or dress along with several days’ worth of clothes. It folds flat for easy storage and is made from water-resistant, durable materials. The Compact version is ideal for shorter trips or for those who pack light. It prioritizes the garment section and can comfortably hold dresses or a handful of shirts. Both sizes boast a dedicated shoe compartment to keep dirty footwear separate from clean clothes.

Check out Matador’s detailed review of the Halfday Garment Duffel

Here’s a breakdown of the specs for the Halfday Garment Duffel:

• Dimensions: 22″ x 12″ x 12″ (when closed)
• Volume: 45 liters
• Weight: 2.3 pounds
• Material: Durable and water-resistant 420D woven polyester lining with water-resistant taslan
• Wrinkle-resistant garment compartment for suits or dresses
• Spacious duffel section for additional clothes, shoes, and toiletries
• Dedicated shoe pouch
• Folds flat for storage, high-tensile-strength woven polyester handles with padded wrap and shoulder strap, handy exterior zip pocket, reinforced metal hanger loop with velcro flap

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Patagonia Black Hole Duffel

Photo: Alex Bresler

Photo: Alex Bresler

Photo: Alex Bresler

Photo: Alex Bresler

Patagonia’s Black Hole Duffel is a popular option for eco-conscious travelers and adventurers. Made from 100% recycled polyester fabric, lining, and webbing, the Black Hole Duffel is a sustainable choice that doesn’t compromise on durability. The recycled TPU-film laminate gives the duffel a weather-resistant, matte finish and superior strength. It comes in a variety of sizes, ranging from 40L all the way up to 100L, making it suitable for weekend getaways or extended expeditions.

The Black Hole Duffel boasts a user-friendly design with features that enhance usability. The duffel utilizes sturdy, removable shoulder straps that allow you to carry it comfortably like a backpack. A D-shaped opening offers easy access to the main compartment, while a designated side pocket keeps smaller essentials close at hand. For convenient storage, the duffel even stuffs into its own pocket when not in use.

Check out Matador’s detailed review of the Patagonia Black Hole Duffel

Here’s a breakdown of the key specifications:

• Material: 100% recycled 900-denier ripstop polyester with a TPU laminate and DWR (durable water repellent) finish
• Colors: Multiple colors are available
• Sizes and weights: There are several sizes available, here are some of the most popular:
  40L: 21 x 13.7 x 10.6 inches, 2 lbs 0.8 oz (930 g)
  55L: 26.7 x 15.7 x 11.8 inches, 2 lbs 9.1 oz (1165 g)
  70L: 29.9 x 16.5 x 13.8 inches, 3 lbs 6.4 oz (1570 g)
  100L: 33.9 x 18.1 x 15.7 inches, 4 lbs 6.4 oz (2020 g)

Features:

• Weather-resistant construction
• Removable padded shoulder straps for backpack-style carrying
• D-shaped access to the main compartment
• Internal mesh pocket in the lid for organization
• Sturdy haul handles
• Reinforced daisy chain for lashing additional gear
• Stuffs into its own side pocket for compact storage

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Lululemon City Adventurer Large Duffel

My Lululemon duffle bag packed and ready to go to Wildwood. Photo: Elisabeth Sherman

In the Newark airport bathroom on the way home from Mexico. Photo: Elisabeth Sherman

Lululemon’s City Adventurer Large Duffel Bag is designed for the busy individual who transitions between work, workouts, and weekend adventures. This versatile duffel bag boasts a spacious 29L capacity, making it suitable for carrying gym clothes, work essentials, or travel gear. It’s crafted with a focus on both style and functionality, featuring a sleek and modern design that complements activewear or office attire.

The City Adventurer Duffel prioritizes organization and convenience. The interior features a separate laptop compartment to safeguard your device during commutes. It also incorporates a dedicated shoe compartment to keep dirty footwear isolated from clean clothes. The bag itself is lightweight and constructed with durable materials, making it easy to carry for extended periods. Additionally, the duffel features comfortable handles and an adjustable shoulder strap for versatile carrying options.

Check out Matador’s detailed review of the Lululemon City Adventurer Large Duffel Bag

Here’s a breakdown of the specs for Lululemon’s City Adventurer Large Duffel Bag:

• Dimensions: 18.1″ x 9.3″ x 11.6″ (46cm x 23.5cm x 29.5cm)
• Volume: 29 liters
• Weight: Not explicitly stated by Lululemon, but user reviews suggest it’s lightweight.

Features:

• Separate padded compartment for up to a 16″ laptop
• Dedicated shoe compartment for ventilation and keeping clean clothes separate
• Easy-access exterior pocket for essentials
• Secure zippered pocket for valuables
• Comfortable carrying handles
• Detachable, adjustable crossbody strap for shoulder carrying
• Trolley sleeve for easy stacking on luggage

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Gregory Alpaca Duffel

Photo: Jessica Hughes

Photo: Jessica Hughes

Photo: Jessica Hughes

Photo: Jessica Hughes

Adventurers seeking a sustainable and luxurious travel companion will find themselves drawn to the Gregory Alpaca Duffel. This duffel stands out for its use of high-quality, water-resistant recycled polyester. The Gregory Alpaca Duffel prioritizes both functionality and organization. It features a spacious main compartment with a duffel-style opening for easy packing and unpacking. Internal mesh pockets help keep smaller items organized, while a designated shoe compartment isolates dirty footwear For carrying comfort, the duffel offers removable, padded shoulder straps that convert it into a backpack. This versatility allows you to choose between duffel-style carrying for short distances or backpack carrying for longer journeys.

Check out Matador’s detailed review of the Gregory Alpaca Duffel

Here are the specs of the Gregory Alpaca Duffel:

• Made from durable, water-resistant 40% recycled 900D polyester ripstop fabric with TPU coating for weatherproofing
• Offered in various sizes: 40L, 60L, 80L, 100L, and 120L to accommodate different travel needs
• Features a large U-shaped zippered main compartment for easy access and packing
• Internal mesh pocket for organization of smaller items
• Expandable dirty gear compartment to separate clean and dirty clothes (available in some sizes)
• Removable, padded shoulder straps with sternum strap for comfortable backpack-style carrying
• Reinforced duffel carry handles for convenient hand carrying
• Exterior daisy chain for lashing on additional gear
• Lockable zippers on the main compartment for added security (availability may vary by size)
• Generally well-reviewed for its durability, comfort, and functionality

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Nemo Double Hall Convertible Duffel

Photo: Jessica Hughes

Photo: Jessica Hughes

Photo: Jessica Hughes

Photo: Jessica Hughes

Photo: Jessica Hughes

Adventurers and weekend warriors, rejoice! The Nemo Double Haul Convertible Duffel is designed to be your ultimate gear-hauling companion. This versatile bag boasts a unique convertibility feature, transforming from a spacious duffel to a comfortable tote bag in seconds. The wide, structured opening stays open while you pack, making it easy to see and access everything inside. Once packed, fold down the sides and secure them with the side release buckles for a streamlined duffel perfect for throwing on the car or checking in at the airport.

For situations where a tote is more convenient, the Double Haul shines again. Unbuckle the sides and deploy the hidden tote handles. Stiffened trusses within the bag maintain its structure, keeping it upright and easy to rummage through. No matter which mode you choose, the Nemo Double Haul is built to last. Crafted from a durable, water-repellent 420D recycled nylon shell, it can handle the rigors of travel while minimizing your environmental impact. Internal and external mesh pockets keep smaller items organized and readily accessible, making the Double Haul a true do-it-all duffel for any adventure.

Check out Matador’s detailed review of the Nemo Double Hall Convertible Duffel

The Nemo Double Haul Convertible Duffel comes in two sizes: 55L and 70L. Here’s a breakdown of the specs for each:

• Material: Both sizes are made from 420D recycled nylon with a urethane coating for water repellency
• Dimensions: 55L: 22″ x 13.8″ x 11.8″ (55.9 cm x 35 cm x 30 cm)
  70L: 24″ x 14.8″ x 12.8″ (61 cm x 37.6 cm x 32.5 cm)
• Capacity:
  55L: 55 liters
  70L: 70 liters

Features:

• Convertible design: transforms from duffel to tote bag with side release buckles and hidden tote handles
  Wide, structured opening for easy packing
• Water-repellent 420D recycled nylon shell for durability and sustainability
• Internal and external mesh pockets for organization
• Unobtrusive backpack straps for comfortable carrying on long hauls (tucked away when not in use)

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