Duffel bags are great for traveling. But that’s not all you’ll find them useful for. They’re versatile bags that can be used for a variety of every day purposes. Duffels of different sizes are very popular among many different people, including those who go to the gym, college students, and outdoor enthusiasts.
Choosing the best duffel bag for you may take a bit of research. What’s best for one person may not be best for someone else. You’ll want to understand the different types of bags and their characteristics so that you can find one that is perfect for you.
The Best Duffel Bag
The best duffle bag for one person may not be the best for the next. Everyone has different needs, and in fact, if you’re like me, you might have 3 or 4 duffel bags in various sizes to cover a range of uses. So when looking for the best duffel bag for you, you’ll want to carefully evaluate your needs. Think about what you will be using the bag for and how much gear you’ll need to carry. This way, you will be able to determine what size you need and how many compartments you should have.
Consider how heavy of a bag you can handle and how easy it should be to maneuver. This will help you decide on the weight of the bag as well as whether you want one with wheels or with extra straps.
Different Types of Duffel Bags
- Classic – This kind of bag is perfect for just about anything. You can carry it around in an urban setting or use it for a camping trip. Some have padded cases so you can keep a laptop or tablet safe inside. Others have water proof or water resistant compartments that are perfect for damp swimsuits or gym clothes.
- Wheeled – These duffles are great for travel. They usually offer several compartments and pockets inside and out so you can organize your items. Duffles can be found in the traditional 2 wheel style that you pull behind you, or in a 4 wheel spinner type that can be easily maneuvered in any direction while standing upright.
- Fashion – These bags often look like a large purse or satchel. They usually have handles as well as a shoulder strap, and come in many stylish colors and shapes.
Tips For Choosing a Duffel Bag
If you are in the market for the best duffel bag, look for durability rather than style. Expensive does not always mean the best in terms of quality. However, cheap bags are not always the best pick either. Here are some things to think about researching bags.
Size
Duffel bags come in many sizes, and there are no standard measurements. If you want one to use as a carry on bag when flying, then you’ll want to be sure to get one that meets the required carry on luggage dimensions. Traditional duffels are usually more compressible than their wheeled counterparts, often making them easier to bring on flights and squeeze into overhead bins or under the seat.
Material
Most less expensive duffel bags are made of polyester. For greater durability, you might go for a bag that is made of nylon or other tear resistant fabric. There are also some bags that are made of high-density cotton. Look for something that is either machine washable or hand washable.
Wheeled duffles can start getting heavy when they are large and filled up. So look for those with frames and handles made of strong lightweight material such as graphite.
Special Features
Duffel bags can come with a variety of different pockets and zippers, both inside and outside the main compartment. Think about what you usually pack and look for storage compartments that meet your needs. Some examples are areas for laptop, hydration system, boot bag, and waterproof section.
Assess other features that you may be interested in such as backpack style straps, detachable day bag, matching toiletry bag, and expandable bags that provide extra space when you need it.