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The 13 best weekender bags for women in 2024, tested & reviewed.

Despite its name, the weekender bag is ideal for a variety of trips.

The Best Weekender Bags for Women

Amanda Norcross | U.S. News

Although they're available in traditional duffel styles, weekender bags come in a variety of shapes and sizes, making them a luggage category of their own. Designed for overnight trips or a few days away, they can also be used as a personal item or carry-on bag depending on airline size restrictions.

Based on recent consumer reviews and our own testing, we've determined the best weekender bags for women – perfect for business, solo travel , girls trips , romantic weekend getaways and more.

Best Overall: BÉIS The Weekender

• Jump to features and expert insights ↓

Best Leather: Monos Metro Carry-All Duffel

Best with shoe compartment: calpak luka duffel.

• Best Quilted: Vera Bradley Large Travel Duffel Bag

Best Duffel: Dagne Dover Landon Neoprene Carryall Bag – XL

• Best With Laptop Compartment: July Carry All Weekender Plus

Best Rolling: CALPAK Luka Soft-Sided Mini Carry-On Luggage

Best organization: pakt one travel duffel – 28l, best for business: tumi voyageur contine weekender, best affordable: steve madden quilted weekender bag, best luxury: mz wallace nik duffel.

• Best Large: Lo & Sons The Catalina Supreme

Best Foldable: LOJEL Niru – 24H Overnighter

(Note: Prices and availability were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to demand and other factors).

Price: $108 or less

What started as a trendy bag is now a travel staple. The Weekender by BÉIS combines the right amount of style and efficiency, with features including a bottom compartment for shoes or other large items, a padded laptop compartment that can accommodate 13- and 15-inch devices, and a trolley sleeve. There's also a zippered exterior pocket, plus three additional pockets and a key leash inside. Largely made of poly canvas, The Weekender is structured yet provides just the right amount of "give" for squeezing those last-minute items in. The Weekender is available in a variety of colors and comes with a detachable strap.

What our editors say:

This is the weekender bag I didn't know I needed. To say it lives up to the hype is an understatement. – Amanda Norcross, Senior Content & SEO Strategist

Rachael Hood | U.S. News

Price: $260 or less

This vegan leather duffel has a classic look and is available in four colors, plus it provides numerous built-in organizational details. The exterior has a front slip pocket, and each end has a pocket with a magnetic snap closure. Inside, the bag features a soft cotton twill lining, a 16-inch laptop sleeve, a spacious zippered pocket and a slip pocket on each end of the bag.

For carrying, use the two top handles, the trolley sleeve, or the removable and adjustable padded strap. Made of ultra microfiber vegan leather, this structured bag resists scratches and abrasions, making it a standout choice for a leather weekender bag.

This vegan leather duffel exudes timeless luxury. Its structure makes it easy to pack, all of the pockets help keep you organized, and its polished look makes it appropriate for any getaway. – Rachael Hood, Senior Editor

Price: $128 or less

While you can find several bags with specific shoe compartments, the unique design of the CALPAK Luka Duffel stands out. The exterior zippered compartment makes it easy to reach your spare pair whether you're ready to put your walking shoes on or you need to access that pair of flats after a business meeting. When not needed, the shoe compartment lays flat on the interior of the bag to give you more room for your weekend getaway essentials.

Constructed with a lightweight polyester, the bag is structured but not bulky. There are nine pockets (including the shoe pocket), along with a trolley sleeve, two shoulder-length handles and a removable carrying strap.

To say I love this bag is an understatement. I bought it a couple of years ago for my wedding, and it's been a go-to ever since. I adore the shoe compartment, which works well for flats or sneakers, and it lays flat if I don't need an extra pair of shoes. There's tons of organizational pockets, it has a trolley sleeve, it works as a personal item on a flight, and it's cute! – Rachael Hood

Best Quilted: Vera Bradley Large Travel Duffel Bag in Cotton

Price: $120 or less

Vera Bradley's Large Travel Duffel Bag remains a classic choice for weekender bags. Available in a variety of patterns and solid colors, the latest cotton version of this bag includes four exterior pockets (one zipped, three slip) for easy access to the essentials, plus three elastic mesh pockets inside. The quilted material makes it especially lightweight as well as washable. Note that this same style in performance twill is slightly smaller, at 20 x 12.5 x 11.5 inches.

I love the simplicity of this bag. It holds everything I need, and after more than a decade of use (and several trips through the washing machine), it's still in excellent condition. – Amanda Norcross

Leilani Osmundson | U.S. News

Price: $245 or less

The stylish yet durable Dagne Dover Landon Neoprene Carryall Bag in the extra-large size stores 35 liters of belongings and comes with a shoe bag, a detachable mesh pouch and a crossbody strap. If that's not enough, you'll find several mesh pockets inside for organization, including a zippered laptop sleeve that can fit most 16-inch laptops. On the exterior of the bag, the neoprene luggage sleeve is perfect for attaching the duffel to a rolling suitcase, and a small pocket above the handle can securely hold your phone or ID.

Plus, this duffel is a great choice when it comes to sustainable travel . The lining is made from recycled plastic water bottles, and the bag is 100% vegan. This weekender also comes in air mesh material.

I love the zippered shoe bag – which is big enough to fit a pair of small boots or a couple pairs of sandals – as well as buttons on the sides that allow the bag to be clipped down for more streamlined travel. Additionally, this weekender duffel is surprisingly lightweight for how durable it is. – Leilani Osmundson, Senior Digital Producer

Best with Laptop Compartment: July Carry All Weekender Plus

Price: $295 or less

Featuring a clamshell design, this waterproof nylon bag opens flat for easy packing. There are two separate zippered interior compartments as well as an internal padded 16-inch laptop compartment. The thoughtfully designed weekender makes it easy to separate your travel essentials while maximizing packing space. On the exterior, there's a large front zippered pocket for reading materials, and the back features a hidden pocket behind the trolley sleeve for small items like your boarding pass or passport. For added versatility, the bag has two leather carrying handles and a removable shoulder strap.

This bag was a wow from the moment I opened it. The clamshell design makes packing a breeze. You can separate your clothes from other essentials and stow your laptop in its designated sleeve that is protected in the center of your bag. Since everything is divided, you can easily reach in to get your laptop out without spilling anything from your bag. – Rachael Hood

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Price: $165 or less

From the laptop pocket to the trolley sleeve, this mini bag packs a punch. There's an exterior front pocket for reading material or your boarding pass, an interior compartment with room for two to three outfits, and a small exterior zippered compartment that works well for a phone charger or earbuds. This rolling bag fits perfectly under the seat on most planes (even the small regional jets) and can be trolleyed with a larger carry-on or checked bag for added convenience.

For a weekend getaway or quick business trip, this is my go-to bag. I can maximize the packing space with compression packing cubes , put my laptop in the interior sleeve and fit all the essentials in this compact rolling style. It works well as an underseater or it easily fits in the overhead bin. I'm on and off flights with ease! – Rachael Hood

Catriona Kendall | U.S. News

Price: $285 or less

This 2.0 version of the crowdfunded Pakt One is beloved for good reason, with a variety of useful organizational features. This carry-on duffel opens clamshell-style for easy packing, and a 16-inch padded laptop pocket separates the two main compartments. The 28L size of this bag may be able to fit under the seat on certain airlines if it's not fully packed, but at full capacity it is better suited to the overhead bin. If you want a bit more space, consider the 35L, which also fits carry-on size guidelines .

On one side of the exterior, a zippered pocket doubles as a luggage sleeve for attaching it to a suitcase; on the other side you'll find two zippered pockets, one of which has multiple smaller pockets and a key clip inside. Built-in accessory straps on top of the duffel allow you to secure bulkier items such as a jacket or tripod. There's also a hideaway side pocket for your water bottle that can be stashed when not in use. The duffel is made of recycled nylon with a water-resistant coating, and the company is committed to eco-conscious production, which includes plastic-free packaging.

I am super impressed by the thoughtful design of this weekender duffel. The organization is top-notch, and it folds up when not in use so it doesn't take up too much room. I've been able to fit around three to four days' worth of clothing, plus my toiletries, my laptop and a pair of shoes. The adjustable padded shoulder strap is pretty comfortable too. – Catriona Kendall, Editor

Price: $575 or less

This sophisticated style works well for business trips, weekend getaways and everything in between. This TUMI weekender is separated into two compartments. The upper compartment has a laptop sleeve (for an up to 13-inch PC or 14-inch MacBook), a removable interior water bottle holder, a large zippered pocket, a slip pocket and a key leash. The lower section is ideal for shoes or business documents; it can be reached through a zipper at the base of the upper compartment or accessed on the outside through a zipper. The exterior nylon shell has a front zippered pocket, a phone slip pocket and a trolley sleeve.

From the sleek exterior with contrasting metal hardware details, genuine leather accents, monogrammable leather charm and all the interior features, this bag perfectly blends function and elegance. It's rather lightweight, yet still holds a shape, and it can even be used as a work bag if needed. – Rachael Hood

Erin Evans | U.S. News

Price: From $59.98

For less than $60, the Steve Madden Quilted Weekender Bag is a steal. The lightweight bag has a quilted exterior and a spacious interior, which makes this weekender option an ideal carryall for travel, work or the gym. It includes a medium interior zippered pocket and two small open pockets, plus 9-inch handles and a removable 25-inch crossbody strap. It's easy to wipe down when dirty, or you can even throw it in the washer. What's more, this bag can easily be used as a personal item, neatly fitting under the seat on most planes.

I've had this bag for six years and it's still in great shape. It fits a surprising amount of clothing and accessories, and its straps are plenty long enough so even when it's filled to the brim, it's comfortable to carry around. – Erin Evans, Managing Editor

Price: $325 or less

This understated quilted duffel has a lightweight construction, a hidden back slip pocket, a trolley sleeve, a phone slip pocket and two large zippered front pockets on the outside. There's also a pocket on each end for water or other items. The interior of the MZ Wallace Nik Duffel has a padded 16-inch laptop sleeve, four slip pockets, a zippered pocket and a removable zippered pouch. The sleek quilted bag has Italian leather accents and provides a chic look for work or leisure trips. It also folds relatively flat for easy storage when you're not out exploring.

I've seen a lot of travelers with these bags over the years, and I can see why. I love the feel of this bag; it feels luxurious, yet it's not flashy or over the top – truly quiet luxury at its finest. I especially love the two large front zippered pockets, as you can put your 3-1-1 bag and other items you need to reach while traveling so you don't have to rifle through your whole bag in the security line. – Rachael Hood

Best Large: Lo & Sons The Catalina Supreme

Price: $350 or less

Flexible with a very large top opening design, this weekender bag works well for packing clothing and gear that may not fit well within a structured bag. The expandable bottom compartment has a removable divider for shoes or other items, and it can be accessed inside the bag or from the outside. There's a trolley sleeve, a removable shoulder strap and top carry handles depending on your needs. This large bag is great for weekend ski trips or bringing along your pillow . It can be a carry-on bag on most airlines, but it will need to go in the overhead compartment because of its size.

This bag works well for car trips, and it has space to pack for two people going on a weekend getaway. I really like the pliability of this bag, and I think it is a good choice for when I need to pack a pillow, a winter coat, cowboy boots, wrapped gifts or other larger items that don't necessarily fit in a small duffel. – Rachael Hood

Price: $155 or less

Constructed with 100% recycled nylon, this bag is ideal for travelers who are short on storage space. It folds flat into its storage pouch – which can be used for organization within the bag when traveling. The interior has a spacious zippered pocket for small items. The size of this bag is ideal for an overnight trip with room for toiletries, essentials and a full change of clothes. For a longer weekend trip, there's also the Niru 48H Weekender .

The size and quality of this bag are superior to other folding totes I've tried. It's very sturdy, the handles are comfortable to carry, the front slip pocket is convenient, and the leather details are a nice touch. – Rachael Hood

Also Recommended

LeSportsac Deluxe Large Weekender: Many travelers (our team included) love this bag. It's durable, offers several exterior and interior pockets, and folds down compactly when not in use.

Nomad Lane Bento Bag: This bag has exceptional organizational features (including a toiletry pouch and an electronics organizer), but it may be a little small for a weekender. If you want a personal item that fits under the plane seat, the Bento Bag is an excellent option for short trips or light packers.

Carl Friedrik Compact Weekender: Sophisticated yet understated, this nylon weekender bag with Italian leather trim is a classic travel bag. It is spacious and looks appropriate regardless of the setting. However, it does lack a luggage trolley sleeve, which makes it a bit limited in terms of carrying options.

Samsonite Virtuosa Weekender: This sleek and simple bag from the well-respected luggage brand is a solid choice, if slightly small for a weekend's worth of belongings. The Virtuosa Weekender has some convenient storage pockets and a luggage sleeve, but the strap can be a little uncomfortable when the bag is heavy.

How We Tested

Our team packed and tested more than 25 weekender bags from a variety of brands at a range of price points. We tested to see if you can pack for a weekend getaway in each bag, along with the durability, details and overall functionality. After taking these weekender bags on an array of car, plane and train trips, we've selected these weekender bags the best for 2024.

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19 Best Weekender Bags for Your Next Getaway, According to Our Editors

Whether you're planning a quick road trip to the nearest beach or a much-needed couple's getaway , spending a few days away calls for a sturdy, stylish, and functional travel bag. We often turn to our favorite weekenders to hold everything we need for short trips and overnight stays. The best weekender bags are roomy enough to carry your clothes, toiletries, and a pair of shoes or two , but not so bulky as to slow you down while dashing to catch a train, or take up an exorbitant amount of space in your trunk. A separate compartment for dirty clothes or shoes is always welcome, too. To narrow down the styles that are worth your dollars (and storage space), our editors put dozens of duffels and expandable totes to the test from top travel brands like Away, Béis, Calpak, Monos, and more.

How we tested:

Condé Nast Traveler editors spent months testing out these weekenders, bringing them on two-day getaways, overnights, and camping trips, and using them as our personal items on flights. We considered each bag's weight, capacity, design, and how well it held up after several trips. We also paid close attention to unique features that make a bag stand out against other options on the market, like having ample pockets or a separate shoe compartment. Below, the 19 best weekenders of 2023, from budget-friendly options to splurge-worthy designer bags.

This article is part of Condé Nast Traveler' s first-ever Luggage Week , for which dozens of suitcases, backpacks, and weekender bags were road-tested by our editors.

All products and listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

MZ Wallace Nik Duffel

Weight: 2.1 lbs. Dimensions: 17"L × 7"W × 12"H Features: Detachable crossbody strap, black leather protective feet, trolley sleeve, water-resistant exterior

MZ Wallace's Nik duffel bag is a new favorite of senior commerce editor Madison Flager —she's used it as an overnight bag when dog-sitting, as a personal item when flying to Florida for a cruise, and for a weekend trip to Boston. Thanks to its quilted fabric, it's incredibly lightweight at just over two pounds. On the bag's exterior, there are two deep zippered pockets for small items you'll want to grab easily during transit, like your wallet or passport. Inside, there's a laptop sleeve, a detachable lightweight pouch, and two more slip pockets that Flager uses to store things like sunglasses and glasses. “As a personal item, it’s super roomy—when I took it on a cruise, it was a good size to hold all the things I wanted to keep with me when boarding, including my toiletry bag , a pouch with medicine, another with makeup, and a bathing suit and pool coverup ,” she says. What we love most about this duffel: its many pockets, water-resistant material, and polished look.

Calpak Luka duffel

Weight: 1.95 lbs. Dimensions: 16" x 7" x 12" Capacity: 22L Features: Separate shoe compartment, trolley sleeve, water bottle pocket

Calpak's Luka duffel is one of its most popular pieces of luggage, previously racking up a 44,000-deep waiting list. Now restocked and available in most colors, it's got rave reviews from associate commerce editor Meaghan Kenny : “I've used my fair share of duffel bags, but this one is by far my favorite. Made of water-resistant material, the Luka duffel bag is so soft and lightweight. No matter how much I stuff in this thing, it's not a pain to carry—the ultra-soft, long carry handles don't hurt my shoulders, and the adjustable longer strap is comfortable, too. This duffel has nine pockets, with a shoe compartment at the bottom where I keep a pair of sneakers or slippers, a mesh pocket, a side pocket for my water bottle, and plenty of smaller side pockets inside where I store small items like socks and toiletries. It fits everything I need for an overnight stay or a quick weekend trip if I'm packing on the lighter side. There's also a trolley sleeve that fits nicely on my carry-on , which is a real lifesaver while walking through the airport.” If you love this bag's features but want something a little more spacious (think three- or four-day trips), the Luka duffel is available in a large version , too.

Read a full review of this bag here .

July Carry All Weekender Plus

Weight: 4.2 lbs. Dimensions: 22" x 9" x 12.5" Capacity: 50L Features: Clamshell opening, trolley sleeve, gunmetal feet on base

The best part of this weekender: the clamshell opening, which allows the bag to lie completely flat for easy packing. With a roomy 50-liter capacity and an internal padded pocket that fits a 16" laptop, you've got a good amount of space in here for an overnight stay or a two-night trip. Contributor Juliet Izon tested out this bag when we were on the hunt for the best weekenders in 2021, and was able to pack “everything I needed for a four-day trip to Asheville , North Carolina, including all the outfit changes I wanted for a weekend in the unpredictable weather of the mountains.” Its smart design, sleek look, and spacious compartments make it deserving of a spot on our list this year, too.

Monos Metro Duffel

Weight: 3 lbs. (nylon); 3.6 lbs. (vegan leather) Dimensions: 16" × 7" × 11" Capacity: 22L Features: Removable exterior pouch, laptop compartment, trolley sleeve

Monos’s Metro line features polished bags made of only vegan materials, including the equivalent of 16 repurposed plastic water bottles per bag. “This is not just a beautiful bag (get used to the compliments!), it’s also the most organized duffel I’ve ever owned, with a spot for everything,” says global digital director Arati Menon . “The interiors are incredibly roomy, and come with pockets that fit everything from your laptop to water bottle. And when you run out of space inside, just snap on one of Monos’ interchangeable kits to the front to put all your necessities (phone, wallet, passport) within easy reach. You could even snap off a kit to double up as a clutch in a pinch.”

Béis The Weekender Bag

Weight: 3.86 lbs. Dimensions: 19.5" x 10" x 16" Capacity: 49L Features: Removable shoulder strap, trolley sleeve, separate shoe compartment, padded laptop sleeve

With a water-resistant and pocket-filled interior, plus an extra roomy bottom compartment that fits several pairs of shoes or those souvenirs you can’t bear to leave behind, this understatedly chic travel tote has enough nooks and crannies to keep even the worst overpacker in line. And the structured frame opening on top keeps the bag wide open—or securely shut—when you need it to be. In addition to gaining a ton of buzz on social media for its “cool girl” aesthetic, the Béis Weekender is also a favorite among Traveler editors, including Flager. It's her go-to tote for true weekend trips—“I use the outer pocket for my phone and ID, and I love the key leash—it’s nice to have a dedicated spot for my house keys so I’m not digging around upon return,” she says. The Béis Weekender is available in a mini size , too, which is better suited as a personal item or a one-night bag.

Patagonia Black Hole Duffel Bag 70L

Weight: 3.28 lbs. Dimensions: 28" × 13" × 17.5" Capacity: 70L Features: Ergonomic shoulder straps, weather-resistant material, padded base

Made from 100 percent recycled fabric, Patagonia's weather- and abrasion-resistant duffel is one of the most durable on our list. It's also is one of our largest options, holding 70 liters of gear. The padded and removable ergonomic shoulder straps let you carry this duffel like a backpack and detach them when not in use. Senior features editor Rebecca Misner easily packed enough clothes for a two-week road trip from San Fransisco and says it held up beautifully—even after constantly throwing it around the back of her car. And it wicks water, so the unexpected shower that came when she was unpacking the car in Portland, Oregon, was no big deal. Its U-shaped top zipper allows the bag to open wide for easy access to everything in the main compartment, which makes packing it and finding belongings a breeze. “It’s a fantastic piece of luggage for a road trip or any adventure travel, but I wouldn't take it on a plane unless I was going on a trip where very minimal lifting would be required. If you keep the weight down, most people should be able to carry it comfortably by its straps,” says Misner. She's looking forward to using it as a ski trip bag this winter: “I won’t worry about throwing it in the back of the car with my skis—scratching or tearing won’t be an issue. Plus, if it gets wet from my ski boots or if I’m loading it in snow, it will wick away any moisture.”

Paravel Weekender

Weight: 2.4 lbs. Dimensions: 15" x 8" x 15" Capacity: 55L Features: Trolley sleeve, removable and adjustable shoulder strap, hand-painted or embroidered initials available

Paravel's timeless Weekender, made from 12 upcycled plastic water bottles, is at the top of our list when it comes to investment bags. The thick cotton canvas exterior is beautifully stitched and elevated by leather accents, while the easy-to-clean nylon interior can withstand a shampoo or water bottle spill. It's a tried-and-true travel essential for Flager, who says it's one of her most aesthetically pleasing bags and most functional, too. It's roomier than it looks, fitting a weekend's worth of clothes, with space for a pair of shoes, Dopp kit , and laptop. Inside, there are two deep zippered pockets for sliding in a pair of flats or sandals, chargers, or any other odds and ends you want with you. “It’s a great bag to use as a personal item—I’ve used it for overnight trips, but more often I use it to carry things I want with me in-flight (Kindle, charger, snacks, etc), plus any overflow that didn’t make it into my carry-on, like a toiletry or makeup bag ,” says Flager. It comes with an adjustable, removable strap to wear as a crossbody or on your shoulder, and has sturdy leather top handles and a trolley sleeve to secure to a suitcase on longer trips.

Paravel Fold-Up Bag

Weight: 1 lb. Dimensions: 18" × 11" × 11.5" Features: Trolley sleeve, interior zip pocket, folds completely flat

Another Paravel favorite: This lightweight fold-up duffel, which packs down to next to nothing. Senior editor Megan Spurrell is a fan, and has used it for overnighters—she says it fits as much as her other duffels, and has held up over the years—and regularly brings it along as a just-in-case bag to carry home souvenirs on longer trips. “I've used it for a couple staycations where I just need to throw things in a bag for a night or two,” she says. “It's nice that it doesn't have a solid structure and is only as big as what you've put inside.” If you’re gifting this bag, include a personal touch with a monogram, which can be added on for $15.

Herschel Supply Co. Tech Novel duffel

Weight: 3 lbs. (nylon); 3.6 lbs. (vegan leather) Dimensions: 20.5" × 11" × 12.75" Capacity: 45L Features: 16" laptop compartment, removable padded shoulder strap, trolley sleeve, shoe compartment

Available in classic colors like black, navy, green, and light and dark gray, this sleek weekender from Herschel was recently redesigned to be made with 100 percent recycled materials. It features a long, padded adjustable strap, a shoe compartment, a trolley sleeve, and a slew of organizers to help keep devices from getting jumbled. This spacious duffel was tested by Kenny, who says this: “It's versatile enough to take you from the gym to a camping trip to a weekend stay down the shore. The bag’s design is simple yet elevated enough to work for any type of traveler at any age.” She noted the ultra-soft laptop compartment is separate from the bag's main section, so your laptop is well-protected during transit. Travelers can easily fit three days of clothing in this duffel, making it a great option for extended weekend trips away. And at $160, it's well priced and will be a great travel companion for years to come.

Lo & Sons The Catalina Deluxe

Weight: 2.6 lbs. (canvas), 2.26 lbs. (recycled poly) Dimensions: 18" x 8.5" x 6" Features: Separate shoe compartment, trolley sleeve, padded removable strap

This travel-friendly tote is a bestseller for accessories brand Lo & Sons, and it’s not hard to see why. The overnight bag features several interior and exterior pockets sized for everything from iPads to sanitizing wipes to sunglasses , a long removable strap with memory foam padding, and a trolley sleeve that converts into a zipper pocket. It was tested by Traveler 's global director of audience development Lara Kramer ; she brought it on an overnight staycation in Brooklyn and a four-night stay at the hospital for the birth of her baby. “You can easily fit a long weekend’s worth of clothes (and shoes!) in this bag. And, in our case, an abundance of pajamas, towels, and home comforts—think portable fan, slippers, a sound machine, and framed photos of family and our pet cat—for a long hospital stay,” she says. There's a handy bottom compartment that can hold two to three pairs of shoes (or your dirty clothes) that also features a removable padded tray that can be washed as needed. Kramer did note that because of its generous size and ample storage, this bag can hold a lot of weight. However, the padded messenger strap made of memory foam does take the comfort level up a notch.

Lululemon City Adventurer large duffel bag

Dimensions: 18" x 9" x 12" Capacity: 29L Features: Trolley sleeve, detachable strap, padded laptop pocket

If you're a fan of Lululemon's ultra-popular fanny pack , you'll likely fall in love with this weekender, too. Made of a similar smooth, water-repellant fabric, the sporty bag comes in silver or black. This is another favorite of Kenny's: “It’s the perfect size for a weekender bag—not too big or too small. It gives you just enough room for two to three outfits without becoming too heavy or bulky to carry around. Plus, it fits under the seat on an airplane, making it a great personal item.” This lightweight duffel opens wide to fit plenty of clothes, and has two mesh pockets and a zippered compartment for keeping important items extra secure. Carry it by the top handles or across your body, and use the trolley sleeve to secure it to luggage when needed. Another plus: It can be folded up nearly flat to store away when not in use.

Baboon to the Moon Go-Bag Small (40L)

Weight: 3.5 lbs. Dimensions: 20.5" x 12.5" x 10.5" Capacity: 40L Features: Backpack straps and removable shoulder strap, waterproof shell

We're big fans of Baboon's indestructible bags—they will stand up to any cargo bin, overhead compartment, or car trunk they're tossed in. Flager has taken this on several adventure-type trips and says, “it’s exactly what you want when you don’t want to be concerned about the elements damaging your bag.” And with a selection of bold, bright colors, they'll be easy to spot on a luggage carousel and put a smile on your face when packing. The detachable, adjustable shoulder straps are a nice touch, too. While it's a great option for two to four days away, we wouldn't recommend this as a true backpacking bag because of its fabric, which can feel a little stiff.

Everlane The ReNew Transit weekender

Dimensions: 19.5" x 7" x 14" Features: Made of 100 percent recycled polyester, laptop compartment, trolley sleeve

Crafted by the popular direct-to-consumer line that turns out wardrobe staples , this go-with-everything oversized tote is a minimalist’s dream. Everlane's ReNew Transit weekender has become a go-to for Spurrell, ever since she first brought it on a weeklong trip to Egypt . “This makes a fantastic, roomy personal item to top your carry-on for a trip when you probably should check a bag but refuse to. It’s also perfect for a casual one-nighter when you just want to throw pajamas, an outfit or two, and some other essentials inside,” she says. The bag features a wider bottom than top, which is great for filling it to the brim without dealing with items spilling out in the back seat. “It’s quite comfy on the shoulders, even in sleeveless clothes with which other straps might dig in, though the padded section of the strap doesn’t sit on your shoulders unless you extend the length quite a bit (I prefer to keep the straps short so the bag sits right under my arm),” says Spurrell. We also love that it's constructed out of recycled polyester (made from 36.6 renewed plastic bottles) that’s also water-resistant. Plus, it fits just as effortlessly in the overhead compartment as it does in the luggage Tetris of a trunk.

Dagne Dover Landon Carryall

Weight: 2 lbs. Dimensions: 16.5" x 9" x 11" Capacity: 29L Features: 16" laptop sleeve, Recycled Repreve lining, trolley sleeve, shoe bag

Don’t be fooled by the streamlined look of this neoprene number. The washable carryall houses a dust bag for shoes, detachable key leash, removable zip-top pouch for essentials, and plenty of air mesh interior pockets, including one for your water (or wine) bottle. The genius exterior phone slot is just the cherry on top. Former Traveler editor Alex Erdekian calls it a “beautiful, keep-forever bag." Dagne Dover's Landon carryall comes in a few different sizes, but the large and extra-large sizes are your best bet for weekend's away. “Because the bag itself is so lightweight, it’s really easy to throw over your head into a bin even if you’ve packed it with a carry-on level amount of stuff,” says Erdekian. She's been able to fit four to five days' worth of clothes inside. And as far as aesthetics, “I adore the look of this bag. It honestly improves any outfit I’m wearing and makes for a chic, classic summer vacation look—we all know that effortlessly glam duffel-bag-slung-over-your-shoulder pose as you’re walking up the driveway of your friend’s lake house.”

Arlo Skye The Weekender

Dimensions: 20.5" × 9" × 11" Capacity: 31L Features: Trolley sleeve, anti-microbial lining, separate shoe compartment

Arlo Skye's sleek weekender is lightweight and made of a scratch-resistant nylon with full-grain Italian leather trim, with an antimicrobial lining. It was tested by Flager, who says you can squeeze a lot in here—use it for long weekends, or as a carry-on to fill with odds and ends when heading out on longer trips. “It's a little too big for an under-the-seat item, but has tons of pockets and separate compartments to keep you organized,” Flager says. “If you pack lightly, it could be your main carry-on on short trips.” There's a separate shoe or dirty clothes compartment, a trolley sleeve if you're rolling it on top of a checked bag , and an exterior slip pocket that's the right size for your phone, passport, and keys.

Rothy’s The Weekender

Weight: 4.4 lbs. Dimensions: 21.5" × 9" × 14" Features: Zipper exterior laptop pocket, machine washable, adjustable and removable shoulder strap

Made from the brand’s signature 100 percent recycled materials (like marine bound plastic) and available in colorblock prints and understated patterns like midnight camo, this roomy tote has all the makings of a go-to weekender. The main compartment is flanked by easy-access compartments with a magnetic closure on one side and zippered one on the other—perfect for storing keys, travel documents, a Kindle, and anything else you might reach for during the journey. Destinations editor Shannon McMahon recommends it for an extended weekend trip: “I found it most useful for beach weekends away where I needed a lot of big accessories, like floppy hats, multiple jackets, and cozy sweatshirts. It’s less plane-friendly because of its sheer size, but I got away with it as a personal item on a recent trip.” At an eye-popping $549, it is one of the most expensive weekenders we tested. And while you can definitely opt for an equally functional bag with a less hefty price tag, you do get plenty of packing space with Rothy's weekender and are supporting a sustainability initiative. McMahon says it's indestructible and incredibly durable, too. And since travel can get messy, we love how, like everything else in Rothy’s collection, the bag is fully machine washable—just remove the base insert and throw it and the bag into the accompanying wash bag and right into your laundry.

Away The Large Everywhere Bag

Weight: 3.8 lbs. (with shoulder strap); 3.3 lbs. (without strap) Dimensions: 21" × 9" × 12" Capacity: 38L Features: Trolley sleeve, 15" laptop pocket, detachable padded shoulder strap

Away is a trusted brand among Traveler editors for quality and functionality. Made of a water-resistant nylon and leather trim, the Large Everywhere bag is the biggest of the brand's best-selling style, with enough room to fit three or four days worth of clothing. It features a clamshell opening, which makes it easy to pack and find everything you're looking for once you arrive. Store clothes in the roomy main compartment and put smaller items like chargers, beauty products, or toiletries in the zippered mesh pockets. It fits nicely on top of your Away carry-on, thanks to the convenient trolley sleeve. And if you're heading on a business trip, there's an exterior padded laptop pocket that fits computers up to 15 inches. Carry it by the top handle or the padded detachable strap.

Louis Vuitton Keepall 55

Weight: 5 lbs. Dimensions: 22" x 9" x 12" Features: Padlock luggage tag, double zip closure, detachable shoulder strap

If you're looking to elevate your luggage collection, the Louis Vuitton Keepall 55 is about as classic as it gets. This roomy duffel, tested by Kenny, features the iconic logo emblazoned on the outside of the bag, offering a chic and timeless style. Inside, there's one main spacious compartment that fits two days' worth of clothes and a toiletry bag, and a side zippered pocket for smaller essentials like a phone charger or a pair of sunglasses. Travelers can carry it by its top handle or with the detachable shoulder strap. And the best part: Its leather exterior gets better with age.

REI Co-op Big Haul 60 Recycled Duffel

Weight: 2.9 lbs.  Dimensions: 26" × 11" × 14" Capacity: 60L Features: Stowable backpack straps, daisy-chain lash points, recycled nylon materials, storage sack

This 60-liter duffel is the ideal bag for a multi-day trip—its durable, holds plenty of gear, and can be carried as a backpack, too. Made of recycled ripstop nylon, the Big Haul duffel is designed to survive wear and tear, making it a great companion for hiking, camping, or other outdoor adventures. It's a go-to for articles director Lale Arikoglu when it comes to adventure travel—she's had it for years and it's still holding up well. There's plenty of room inside its main compartment, as well as internal mesh pockets to keep small essentials organized. It features a compression strap system to keep your gear compact and secure, and a storage sack.

The 11 Best Weekender Bags for Women, According to Editors and Experts

In case you needed another reason to be pumped about your trip.

• How We Chose

The Best Weekender Bags

Meet the experts.

Fact: There's never a bad time to use up your hard-earned PTO by booking a quick trip. And unless you’re a chronic over-packer like me, you’ll need to find the best weekender travel bag for your next getaway. Weekender and overnight bags are basically like the smaller, cuter version of carry-on luggage and are perfect for carrying the essentials.

Traditionally, weekender bags were sold as a part of an entire luggage set . Now, however, they’re sold on their own, giving you the perfect excuse to have a little more fun. And with quick trips becoming increasingly popular, it’s about time for you to invest in one that can carry you through the seasons. 

And if we’re talking about the best weekender bags, there’s no one more equipped to turn to for advice than two founders of the best luggage brands on the market: Karla Gallardo , Co-Founder and CEO of Cuyana, and Shay Mitchell , founder of BÉIS. In addition to being incredibly stylish and sleek, the best-selling weekender bags they design are some of the most functional suitcases around. Read on for their tips and recommendations, in addition to weekender bags tested by the very well-traveled editorial team here at Marie Claire.

• Best Overall Weekender Bag:   BEIS The Weekender Bag  
• Best Roomy Weekender Bag: Longchamp Le Pliage 21-Inch Expandable Travel Bag
• Best Splurge-Worthy Weekender Bag: ROYCE Leather Weekender Bag
• Best Backpack Weekender Bag: Fjällräven Kånken 15-Inch Laptop Backpack

How We Chose the Best Weekender Bags

We know that there are plenty of weekender bags for you to choose from. Every weekender and travel bag on this has been specifically chosen by Marie Claire’s E-Commerce Editor, Julia Marzovila (a.k.a. me!), our Fashion Director Sara Holzman , Style Editor Emma Childs , and the rest of our editorial team. Each has been either tested for its size and durability or has been recommended from an expert we trust. These are the details we looked for when putting this list together:

• Functional Design Features: "Thoughtful function,” says Mitchell, is the most significant aspect to consider when shopping (and designing!) weekender bags. “A lot of times people are so focused on the way a bag looks that they can forget the very important consideration of how the bag is going to serve the person carrying it."
• A Good Look: Function is important, but aesthetics are, too. "I recommend looking for a bag that is spacious, durable, and beautiful," Gallardo shares. "It’s important to ensure that the bag you invest in has an aesthetic that you are confident will stand the test of time. I personally prefer a darker color, so it doesn't show any dirt—travel can get messy!"
• Organization: "You want something that is going to carry your essentials seamlessly from one destination to the next," explains Gallardo. "I suggest a piece that has multiple compartments, allowing you to maximize your organization when packing." Mitchell agrees with Gallardo, saying organizational ease is top of mind when she's designing weekender styles. “Most of us have similar things we need to carry with us—phones, wallets, cards, passports, water bottles—so when we design we always think of an organization that will accommodate all of the things people need while still being something they feel cute carrying." 
• High-Quality Materials: "You want to ensure your weekender bag is made of quality materials—especially zippers—that are built to last," advises Gallardo. Look for styles made of sturdy materials like nylon, leather, and polyester (ideally recycled), and bonus if the materials are water-resistant or waterproof, as that will help to extend the lifetime of your bag.

"Listen, I love all my babies equally, but The Weekender is my tried and true," Mitchell says about BEIS' best-selling, affordable weekender bag. "This bag looks badass, has amazing structure, maximizes space with creative organization, and is the most ideal size. We love to offer consumers compartments, pockets, and spaces that can be used for a variety of reasons…whatever they feel is best for keeping them organized on the go." Plus, it's super versatile. "I always use the bottom of The Weekender for my shoes, for example, but my mom uses it for her cosmetic and bathroom items, and my friend uses it for all her baby's stuff," she says. 

Pros: Plenty of compartments; Under $100; Top-rated; Comes in five colors

Con: Some colors can sell out

Customer Review: "The king of weekender bags. Dedicated compartments, lots of space, and comfy as heck on the shoulder. Added bonus if you have a roller suitcase because [it has] roller handle slots for baggage togetherness."— Revolve 

This versatile weekender bag from Everlane is what Style Editor Emma Childs calls a "life-changer." It includes a padded laptop sleeve, two water bottle holders, zipper pockets on the outside, and a removable shoulder strap, proving that it's the one bag that can take you just about everywhere. "I call on this nylon number for quick trips out of the city and occasionally use it as my in-office work bag if I have a busy day ahead," Childs describes of her well-loved black bag. "Plus," the fashion girl on the go adds, "it’s easy to style and sleek by design, so it never clashes with my outfit."

Pros: Can safely hold your laptop; Can do double-duty for work; Sustainably made; Lightweight; Comes either with or without the Everlane label. 

Cons: Some reviewers say the nylon straps can cut into your shoulders.

Customer Review: "This bag is IT! It’s so roomy— perfect for carrying a laptop and whatever else you need to fit for any kind of travel. Carry it on your shoulder as a crossbody, or slip it over the handle of your suitcase with an outer sleeve. Great price and very well made."—Everlane 

"This water-resistant nylon-and-leather overnight and weekender bag from Longchamp (another favorite brand of team Marie Claire) is great for longer trips because it’s actually expandable courtesy of a zip insert," Style Editor Emma Childs shares. "Plus, it folds down to lay flat, which makes it great for trips where you expect to shop or are planning to come home with more items than you left with—a.k.a. every vacation I've ever been on. Plus, it’s still eligible to be a carry-on, even if it’s fully-expanded," she explains.

Pros: Water-resistant; Has a removable shoulder strap; Expandable design; Comes in several colors 

Cons: Costs over $200; Has one interior side pocket. 

Customer Review: "This bag is like the Mary Poppins bag because you can store soo much in it, and there is even an expandable zipper on it. It was able to sit on my suitcase while traveling due to the short straps not letting it go anywhere. I love Longchamp because the materials last forever. Definitely worth the money for such a cute, durable, and large bag."—Nordstrom 

"I haven't met a CALPAK product I didn't love, but their classic duffel is perhaps my favorite of them all," gushes  Lucia Tonelli, Social Media Editor . "Aside from it being an objectively attractive weekender bag, the Luka's streamlined design doesn't come at the expense of practical features. With a bottom compartment for shoes (one of nine (9!) pockets in total), a slit for sliding the bag over the handle of rolling luggage (for quick sprints through the airport or trudging along city streets), and a plush, lightweight, comfortable design, it's everything you could want in a bag—and then some." 

Pros: Under $200; Seven colorways; Nine total pockets for organization; Water-resistant exterior; Shoe and water bottle compartments. 

Cons: Some customers report that the straps fall off the wearer's shoulder and that it reflects wear after a few uses.

Customer Review: "Love this new bag!! So many pockets to keep my things organized. And the sleeve for the luggage handle is a game changer because I don’t have to worry about holding my bag to ensure it doesn’t tip over when it’s on top of my luggage."—CALPAK 

"Our Large Travel Bag is my current favorite for many reasons," raves Karla Gallardo of Cuyana. "It’s a beautiful piece, but also checks every box that you should be looking for when investing in a travel bag. It’s incredibly spacious, with three large compartments for organization, metal feet for protection, and a wide crossbody strap that allows you to carry the bag however you wish. Plus," she adds, "it’s made from 100% GRS-Certified Plastic and is machine washable, making it a truly incredible, sustainable piece that stands apart from many travel bags on the market."

Pros: Adjustable shoulder strap; Two exterior pockets; Three interior pockets; Machine washable (delicate cycle only); Comes in two colors; Comes in two sizes. 

Cons: Over $200.

Cuyana's Co-Founder and CEO Favorite Aspect: "My favorite part of this bag is the luggage sleeve, which seamlessly and securely attaches my bag to my suitcase handle, making walking around the airport so much easier."

"I tend to overpack when going out of town for the weekend, but this weekend tote is ultra roomy," describes  Style Director Sara Holzman,  of this sleek   15" x 15" x 8" option from sustainable luggage brand Paravel. "Deep interior pockets mean I don't have to choose between my hair dryer and a pair of shoes—they're both coming with me. Plus, I feel good about using it because this bag is constructed from 12 upcycled water bottles." Oh, and if you like all your belongings to have a personal touch, opt to get this weekender monogrammed for $65. 

Pros: One interior zippered pocket, two interior slip pockets, and one exterior slip pocket; Option for personalized monogram; Trolley handle straps; Made of recycled plastic.

Cons: Over $200; Some reviewers say they wish it was slightly larger.

Customer Review: "Such a cute bag [that] makes solo travel infinitely easier! I love that it can be strapped onto my carry-on bag. The two interior pockets are great for things like my phone and passport while still having enough room in the interior of the bag for my laptop and things I want to be able to grab in-flight. Perfect!"—Paravel

"If you're looking for a no-frills weekender bag, this one (which costs under $100!) from Herschel Supply Co. is for you," suggests E-Commerce Editor J ulia Marzovilla . "It comes in four easy-to-style colors, including dark green and navy blue, has a double-zip design at the top for extra security, and an adjustable shoulder strap in addition to two straps on the top. There’s even a mesh pocket on the inside for extra storage, plus a zippered pocket on the exterior for the things you frequently reach for," the shopping expert explains.

Pros: Costs under $100; Has an interior pocket and an exterior pocket; has an adjustable shoulder strap; comes in multiple colors. 

Cons: Some reviewers note that having one pair of shoes in the bag takes up lots of space. 

Customer Review: "Used this as a weekend bag and it fit everything I needed. It's a lot bigger than you'd think and it's not bulky or cumbersome to get into an airplane overhead."—Nordstrom 

"This bag has been everywhere with me," says  Julia Marzovilla, E-Commerce Editor , on this easy-to-carry style from cult-favorite luggage brand Away. "It's lightweight, has an adjustable shoulder strap as well as a top handle, and has interior pockets so that all my stuff stays organized. Great for a quick trip, this weekender bag is just big enough to fit a few changes of clothes and two pairs of shoes at most," the shopping expert details, adding that this style will curb any over-packer's excessive habit.

Pros : Under $200; Water resistant; Trolley sleeve; Detachable padded shoulder strap; A padded 15" laptop pocket; Five colorways.

Cons : Some reviewers note the stiff handles can be uncomfortable and bulky.

Customer Review: "This bag exceeded all my expectations. It held everything I needed for my flight, including my laptop and tablet, personal items, and snacks, all within easy reach and nicely organized and accessible under my seat. This bag comes closer to perfect than any other I’ve had."— Away 

"This sleek weekend bag from Rains is how you look chic when Mother Nature decides to act up while you're traveling," says  Emma Childs . "It's made from a shiny coated polyurethane that literally wicks away moisture and rain to guarantee that your belongings stay dry all day long. And when it comes to its design, this one's a winner: It has a structured silhouette and flat base to ensure the bag stays upright. Oh, and there are detachable handle grips with slider buckles on the side to keep everything secure," explains the Style Editor.

Pros: Costs less than $200; Water-resistant design; Has removable handles; Has an adjustable shoulder strap. 

Cons: Only has one large interior pocket. 

Customer Review: "The bag's size was perfect, as its volume was big enough for both a two-night stay's worth of clothes and essentials. The light drizzle and the wet ferry rides alike tested its waterproof zipper and construction, and everything remained dry inside. Overall a sleek and great bag!"—Nordstrom 

Here's another favorite of E-Commerce Editor J ulia Marzovilla . "This neutral, small-but-mighty backpack from Fjällräven will hold your laptop plus all of your weekend or overnight essentials," she explains. "If you're someone that can travel the world with just one single pair of jeans, one pair of sneakers, and a few T-shirts, this is the one. It has a sleeve inside for a laptop, will fit your tablet plus most 15” laptops, comes in a few different colors, and is water-resistant. The lightly-padded shoulder straps also make it great for all-day carrying."

Pros : Costs under $200; Water-resistant; Fits most 15" laptops; Has a dedicated laptop sleeve; Has adjustable shoulder straps; Comes in several colors.  

Cons : Better for overnight or two-day trips.  

Customer Review: "This is the first backpack I have had in 6 years and the first one I have really liked! The padded straps are comfortable without being cumbersome, and it can fit my laptop, books, and a sweater while still appearing small when worn. I usually prefer multiple pockets, instead of just the one outer zip pocket, but because the main compartment can zip down all the way along the sides it is still easy to get to the smaller things that sink to the bottom." — Nordstrom

"Yes, it's pricey at $750, but it's worth every penny," says  Style Editor Emma Childs . "Hear me out: It's 21 inches long, so it can fit enough clothes to last you a week—plus your computer and all of your other essentials, of course. It has one interior side pocket, allowing you to stay organized but not struggle to find your items (the pitfall of many travel bags that feature way too many complicated compartments). The 42" crossbody strop is both adjustable and removable, allowing you to customize the fit and how you carry this style."

Pros: Is large in size; Adjustable and removable crossbody strap; Sleek leather look. 

Cons: Costs more than $200. 

Customer Review: " I just turned 30 and wanted to invest in nice luggage. This bag exceeded my expectations. As someone who always overpacked I was surprised to see everything easily fit for a week-long vacation!"—Saks Fifth Avenue 

What Is a Weekender Bag?

Not just any slightly larger tote bag can be considered a weekender bag, so it’s important to know what you’re looking for when you’re shopping, especially if you’re shopping online. "A good weekender travel bag should be bigger than a backpack, but smaller than a carry-on suitcase, and it must be easy to fit in an airplane, train, or however you choose to travel," says Gallardo. "What's key for me is being able to keep my bag organized; The interior should be roomy enough to fit the essentials but also have separate compartments to keep things tidy." Many of the options on this list work as a personal item that will fit in the overhead compartment on the plane. Some of the smaller options can also fit under the seat in front of you on a plane. 

Mitchell echoes the Cuyana expert: “I’d define a weekender as a bag that is big enough to fit every single thing that you need and small enough to sling over your shoulder and be your tagalong for a quick jaunt,” she shares over email.

How to Pack a Weekender Bag

"Organization inserts are a must in my book," shares Gallardo. "They help compartmentalize my items and keep my bag tidy. This way, I know where everything is and it’s easy to quickly grab my passport, laptop, toiletries or anything that I need when I’m in a rush."

Karla started Cuyana alongside co-founder Shilpa Shah with the vision of creating a global design house that inspires intentional buying through pieces that are crafted with integrity. Founded upon the philosophy of  fewer, better , Cuyana encourages customers to purchase fewer, high-quality pieces that they will love and treasure for years to come. Born and raised in Ecuador, Karla moved to the United States as she earned her Bachelor of Science in Applied Mathematics from Brown University and then joined Goldman Sachs. Karla then earned her MBA from the Stanford Graduate School of Business, where Cuyana was born. Since its launch in 2011, Cuyana has become the go-to brand for women seeking beautiful, functional, and sustainable pieces built to endure their everyday lives.

Shay Mitchell is an actress, multi-faceted entrepreneur and travel expert. Shay founded the travel and lifestyle essentials brand BÉIS in 2018, which offers stylish, functional, durable, and responsible fashion-forward luggage, baby bags, pet travel and accessories, cosmetics cases and more. Shay has been traveling extensively over the past 20 years. Whether flying cross-country or cross-continent, or navigating the daily hustle of an active lifestyle, Shay knows firsthand the joys and pains of every type of travel. With over 45 million followers across all platforms, Shay is one of the most celebrated voices on social media.

Stay In The Know

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Julia Marzovilla is the Fashion E-Commerce Editor at Marie Claire, where she reviews the latest launches from fashion and beauty brands, finds the best on-sale items around the internet, and interviews experts to find the best products in any category to share with her readers. She also creates shopping guides that span every vertical on the site as an expert in everything from the best laptop bags to the best laser hair removal devices.

In her near decade of experience, Julia has both written for several top outlets in the E-Commerce space and worked at major fashion labels. Prior to joining the Marie Claire team, she contributed similar shopping stories to sites such as Bustle, InStyle, The Zoe Report, Who What Wear, and worked as the Trending Fashion and News Writer STYLECASTER. You can find her across the internet at @JuliaMarzovilla. In real life, you can find her creating shopping guides for her friends, cooking or baking in her too-small kitchen, or buying tickets for the next time Harry Styles is in town.

Julia has a Bachelor’s degree in English with a minor in Journalism from Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles, California. She lives in New York City, her hometown.

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14 best weekender bags for every type of traveler in 2024

Between balancing a full-time job and family duties, a quick weekend getaway is usually easier to pencil into a busy schedule than a long vacation. Embarking on short trips throughout the year is a great way to take a break from the monotony of your daily routine, but how effectively you pack may determine just how stress-free your trip is. A weekender bag, which includes zippered duffels, travel backpacks and large multi-compartment bags , can easily keep your travel essentials in one place.

To help you choose the best one for your getaway, we asked travel experts how they shop for weekender bags and rounded up some of their favorite options along with NBC Select staff picks.

SKIP AHEAD Best weekender bags of 2023 | What is a weekender bag and what is it used for? | How to shop for a weekender bag

Selected. Our top picks

Best weekender bags of 2024

We compiled expert-recommended options and NBC Select staff favorites to help you decide on the best weekender bags for your personal travel preferences.

Best weekender bag overall: Lo & Sons

Lo & sons the catalina deluxe.

Lo & Sons The Catalina Deluxe

The Catalina Deluxe from Lo & Sons is a frontrunner for durability, space and style. I frequently take quick weekend trips to visit family, and I can always rely on this weekender to store everything I need. It fits comfortably underneath my seat on flights or train rides, and I love that it has a separate, zippered bottom compartment to help keep my shoes and dirty clothes isolated from the rest of my packed items. It comes in various sizes, colors and fabrics, including soft and sturdy canvas, and water-resistant and eco-friendly recycled polyester. It also includes an adjustable messenger strap with removable padding, as well as a backend pass-through sleeve so it can fit comfortably on top of a suitcase.

Capacity : 40 liters (small); 49 liters (large) | Material : Canvas; 600D recycled polyester | Water-resistant : Yes (recycled polyester) | Laptop compartment : No

Best multi-purpose weekender bag: Halfday

Halfday the garment duffel.

This duffel comes recommended by NBC Select’s associate updates editor Zoe Malin and editor James Ellis due to its durability and size. “I like that it's small enough to not make a fuss on the plane, but I can still pack at least one suit if I wanted,” Ellis says. It weighs a little over 2 pounds and has a water-resistant exterior that’s designed to withstand unpredictable weather. The duffel comes with two interior shoe pockets that fit a size-13 shoe in each, and it converts into a hanging garment compartment that holds a suit, tux or multiple dress shirts, according to the brand.

Capacity : 45 liters | Material : Oxford; Taslan polyester lining | Water-resistant : Yes | Laptop compartment : No

Best weekender bag with removable compartment: Beis

Beis the convertible weekender.

“This bag changed my life — it’s the only weekender I can truly rely on for trips, and it sparks joy when I use it,” Malin says. She loves that it comes with a bottom compartment to keep shoes separate: “I always travel with my running sneakers, and having that dedicated compartment for them keeps their dirty soles away from my clean clothes.” The compartment is also removable if you’re a light packer, so you can convert it to a minimalist tote. Malin also likes the many interior pockets that can help safely store away her phone, wallet, passport and other essentials while traveling, as well as the removable padded laptop sleeve to save time while going through TSA. The brand also offers a mini version , which is small enough to use as a purse or work tote when you remove the bottom compartment.

Capacity : 49 liters | Material : Polyester; vegan leather trim | Water-resistant : Yes (lining) | Laptop compartment : Yes

Best affordable weekender bag: Adidas

Adidas defender 4 medium duffel bag.

In addition to the Lo & Sons option, my partner and I use this affordable duffel from Adidas for quick overnight stays or to haul exercise clothes and fitness equipment to the gym. It doesn’t have the bells and whistles of higher-end bags, just a spacious, zip-top interior with two zippered side pockets that allow me to keep track of (and store away) smaller items like earbuds , wallets and keys. It also has a removable shoulder strap, so you can use it as both a true duffel with handles or a crossbody bag to haul heavier items.

Capacity : N/A (Dimensions: 13 inches long, 12 inches high, 24.75 inches wide) | Material : Polyester | Water-resistant : Yes | Laptop compartment : No

Best high-end weekender bag: ShortyLove

Shortylove friday weekender travel bag.

Editorial director Lauren Swanson owns this weekender in Army Green and says that “it's surprisingly spacious and lightweight.” Weighing just under 2 pounds, the bag is made from water-resistant nylon twill and has a flat, structured bottom that lets it stand upright when placed on the floor. It also has internal padding so it maintains its structure when it’s not in use, according to the brand. It comes with multiple interior slip pockets to hold your phone, keys and wallet, as well as a deep, zippered exterior pocket.

Capacity : 60 liters | Material : Nylon twill | Water-resistant : Yes | Laptop compartment : No

Best convertible weekender bag: Baboon to the Moon

​​baboon to the moon go-bag.

If you can’t decide between a traditional weekender bag and a travel backpack, Baboon to the Moon’s water-resistant Go-Bag solves that issue — it has a handle so you can use it as a duffel, and adjustable shoulder straps to easily convert it into a backpack. It’s also a favorite of former NBC Page Mihkaila Archer: “I’ve been telling everyone I possibly can about Baboon to the Moon — it's not super traditional luggage, but I love its wide array of unique colors and bag sizes for any type of trip.”

Capacity : 32 liters, 40 liters and 60 liters | Material : Proprietary OM Stardust Ballistic shell | Water-resistant : Yes | Laptop compartment : No

Best sustainable weekender bag: Everlane

Everlane the renew transit weekender.

If you’re looking for an environmentally-friendly bag that’s both durable and water-resistant, Everlane’s ReNew Transit Weekender, which is highly rated with a 4.7-star average rating from over 100 reviews on the brand’s website, is made from 100% recycled polyester that comes from renewed plastic bottles. It includes an adjustable shoulder strap, a padded interior laptop sleeve, two water bottle holders and a zip pocket on the outside. It’s available in five colors, too.

Capacity : 25 liters | Material : Recycled polyester | Water-resistant : Yes | Laptop compartment : Yes

Best carry-on weekender bag: Calpak

Calpak stevyn duffel.

This duffel bag from Calpak, which is one of our favorite AAPI-owned businesses , is great for weekend getaways, trips to the gym or last-minute flights. It comes with a large bottom compartment for shoes or any clothes you want to keep separated, as well as interior pockets to keep smaller items like your wallet, cards and keys, organized. It has a trolley sleeve on the back side to securely attach it to your luggage, plus you can remove the shoulder strap to carry it from its handles too.

Capacity : 47 liters | Material : Polyester | Water-resistant : No | Laptop compartment : No

Best expandable weekender bag: Longchamp

Longchamp le pliage expandable travel bag.

A favorite of former NBC Select writer Barbara Booth for its size, versatility and sleek design, the Longchamp Le Pliage has a zipper in the middle that allows the water-resistant bag to expand in size, so she can use it for travel or at the beach or pool. For extra portability, the Le Pliage bag folds down flat and fastens with a buttoned flap, so you can easily store it in your suitcase when you travel. Additionally, it has a spacious main interior, a removable crossbody strap and plenty of interior pockets.

Capacity : 30 liters; 50 liters (when expanded) | Material : Nylon; leather trim | Water-resistant : Yes | Laptop compartment : No

Best weekender tote: L.L.Bean

L.l.bean boat and tote zip-top.

If you prefer a one-shoulder tote bag to store your weekend trip essentials, this option from L.L.Bean comes in small, medium, large and extra-large sizes. Made from heavy-duty cotton canvas, the tote has a reinforced bottom and double-stitched seams, which makes it suitable to carry heavier items like shoes, laptops and other travel accessories (in fact, the handles are sturdy enough to hold up to 500 pounds, according to the brand). NBC Select editor Lindsay Schneider recommends this zip-top option for traveling thanks to its long durable handles and sturdy structure.

Capacity : 8 liters, 17 liters, 35 liters and 56 liters | Material : Cotton canvas | Water-resistant : No | Laptop compartment : No

Best backpack weekender: Osprey

Osprey arcane xl 22l daypack.

The Osprey Arcane XL Daypack comes recommended by Juliff. “At 30 liters, it’s the perfect size for a couple of nights away, and because it’s a backpack rather than a duffel, it’s easy and comfortable to carry when walking,” she says. It has a laptop compartment that fits a 15-inch laptop, and the external zip pocket is great for keeping small essentials like a passport, credit cards and phone within easy reach. Osprey also offers an “all mighty guarantee,” which means the brand will repair or replace any of its luggage if it gets damaged, for any reason, free of charge. “I’ve successfully taken them up on this offer in the past and had a seven-year-old backpack replaced after an airline tore a hole in it,” Juliff says.

Capacity : 30 liters | Material : 500D recycled polyester | Water-resistant : Yes | Laptop compartment : Yes

Best lightweight weekender bag: Dagne Dover

Dagne dover landon carryall bag.

Select’s managing editor Leah Ginsberg says she’s “a devotee” of the Landon Carryall Bag from Dagne Dover. It’s made from 100% premium neoprene, a lightweight, water-resistant fabric that’s insulating, shock-absorbent and flexible, according to the brand. “It has so many useful pockets and it's lightweight because of the material,” says Ginsberg, who has the small version of this bag and typically uses it as a purse. “I also always get compliments because it looks cool.”

Capacity : 5 liters, 11 liters, 18 liters, 29 liters, 35 liters | Material : Neoprene | Water-resistant : Yes | Laptop compartment : Yes (medium, large and extra-large sizes)

Best overnight weekender bag: Vera Bradley

Vera bradley large travel duffel.

If you’re planning on embarking on an overnight trip, Vera Bradley’s 100% cotton duffle bag has a zip pocket and three slip pockets on the exterior, as well as three additional interior mesh pockets to keep smaller items organized. You can use it as a true duffel bag using its drop handles, or use the detachable shoulder strap to haul heavier items. (It comes with a shoulder pad to make it more comfortable, too.) The spacious, soft weekender is high quality and lasts for years, according to Schneider.

Capacity : 50 liters | Material : Recycled cotton | Water-resistant : No | Laptop compartment : No

Best personalizable weekender bag: Paravel

Paravel weekender.

“The Paravel Weekender is perfect for true weekend getaways — its stylish design and high-quality construction make it a standout choice,” says Nadine Sykora, blogger and host of YouTube travel channel Hey Nadine . The weekender fits up to two days-worth of clothes and a 15-inch laptop (though it doesn’t have a dedicated laptop sleeve), according to the brand. It also comes with a removable and adjustable strap, an interior zip pocket and zip-top closure that makes it easy to unload and reload your essentials. For an additional fee, you can personalize the bag with an embroidered or hand-painted monogram or emoji.

Capacity : 28 liters | Material : Eco-friendly canvas and recycled vegan leather | Water-resistant : No | Laptop compartment : No

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How we picked the best weekender bags.

A weekender bag is designed for short trips, typically taking place over a few days or a weekend. Depending on their overall dimensions, you might want to use them as a carry-on or personal item for a flight. When shopping for a quality weekender bag, experts told us to consider the following factors:

• Size : Stick to bags with a capacity of at least 30 liters so they can comfortably fit your travel essentials, according to experts we spoke to. Bags that hold upwards of 40-50 liters may hold more, but keep in mind they’ll be harder to lug around.
• Material : Weekenders come in many different materials including canvas, recycled polyester, nylon and leather. Water-resistant materials like nylon and neoprene are best since they provide some peace of mind when traveling outdoors, according to our experts.
• Straps, comfort and versatility : Look for bags with strong, padded straps that aren’t going to give way when you’re carrying a heavier load. Some options transform into travel backpacks or crossbody bags, which makes it easier to carry heavier items.
• Price : You can expect to spend between $100 to $300 on a quality weekender bag. However, “beyond that point, you’ll be paying a premium for brand recognition or aesthetic features rather than significant improvements in durability or functionality,” says travel blogger Lauren Juliff .
• Organizational features : Consider bags with interior pockets that will keep small items in one place and exterior pockets to keep essentials like your phone and passport in-reach. You should also look for a built-in laptop sleeve or compartment to keep your tech safe and scratch-free.

What is a weekender bag and what is it used for?

Sized in between a backpack and a carry-on suitcase , a weekender is big enough to hold clothes, toiletries, shoes and other essentials. Many tend to have soft sides, zippers and multiple compartments that give you the convenience and accessibility of a backpack with the capacity of a smaller suitcase sans the bulkiness.

“For getaways lasting a night or two, the main advantage of a weekender bag is the ease at which you can pack and unpack,” Juliff says. “You don’t have to squeeze everything through the narrow entrance of a backpack when packing, and when unpacking, it’s far easier to see where everything is in a duffel.”

Practicality aside, weekender bags are a stylish alternative to basic luggage. They come in a variety of colors and materials, including nylon, faux leather, canvas and polyester. Some weekenders can even “fold flat after unpacking, so you can store them out of sight,” Juliff says. Some also sport customizable features like monograms and patterns to fit your personal style.

“I'm definitely somebody who has weekenders that go from a traditional soft duffel in a leather to a canvas duffel to larger totes that stand up on their own,” says Yolanda Edwards, founder of travel magazine Yolo Journal . She says she uses weekender bags for short trips to her house in upstate New York, but she also takes them along on planes as a personal item and in cars during road trips.

How to shop for a weekender bag

Not all weekender bags serve the same function: Your specific needs and type of travel will determine the right bag for you.

“The first thing you want to do is determine what your weekend will look like,” Sykora says. “If you're a minimalist and prefer packing light, a weekender bag can certainly work for longer trips — just make sure it's comfortable to carry, as most weekender bags aren't designed for extended periods of use.”

When shopping, our experts recommended considering the size and material of your weekender, your comfort level while using one and built-in organizational features like pockets and laptop sleeves.

The right size weekender

The size of your weekender will determine what you can (and can’t) take. Some bags are more compact, so you can easily carry it around, while roomier, pocket-filled options offer more space for storing your travel essentials.

Juliff recommends a minimum capacity of 30 liters for a weekender bag. “This should be sufficient to carry clothing, toiletries and other essentials for a short trip,” she says. Plus, “30 liters is typically well within most airlines' carry-on luggage requirements, allowing you to easily stow your bag under the seat when traveling internationally.”

If you’re an experienced traveler, a larger weekender bag may still work well for longer trips. “I traveled continuously for two years with a single 40-liter backpack and didn’t feel as though the amount of space was limiting — anything less than 40 liters and I would have struggled, though,” Juliff says. And though a smaller option may not hold all of your essentials, opting for a bigger weekender can still be limiting: “Typically, weekenders aren’t rolling bags, so you’ll need to physically carry them around,” which can result in some serious heavy lifting if you’re a chronic overpacker, according Sykora. “For most people, I would recommend a 50-liter or 60-liter suitcase or backpack for trips lasting longer than a week,” Juliff says.

Comfort and versatility

“Consider your destination, travel distance and transportation methods — like car versus public transportation — when determining the size and comfort [of your bag],” Sykora says. Padded, removable and adjustable straps are important when it comes to comfort, especially if the bag functions as both a duffel and a backpack. If you’re planning a walking-heavy trip , some weekenders can transform into crossbody bags or travel backpacks that won’t put too much pressure on one shoulder. Carrying a weekender bag with a shoulder strap isn’t ideal for long-haul trips, according to Sykora.

select A quality travel pillow makes a difference. Here's why.

While different materials will determine how your weekender bag looks, you’ll want to avoid materials that won’t hold up in certain travel conditions. If you're an outdoorsman or if you expect unpredictable weather, “you should not be getting a zippered duffel that's [made of] canvas — which is usually heavier — or any with leather details,” Edwards says. She suggested opting for a lightweight, water-resistant nylon, instead.

“Water-resistance for both the fabric and the zippers is a valuable feature if you plan on traveling in all seasons, and will keep your belongings dry in anything that isn’t a torrential downpour,” Juliff says.

Organizational features

While most weekender bags have an open, spacious interior with a few pockets to store miscellaneous items, some offer more functional compartments like laptop sleeves, separate shoe compartments and easily accessible slots for a phone, e-reader or other essentials that you need to keep in reach.

You can expect to spend anywhere between $100 to $300 for a quality weekender bag, depending on materials, brand and design, according to Juliff. “There is a noticeable difference between a $50 bag and a $400 bag in terms of quality and materials, you can both see and feel it,” Sykora says.

Higher-end bags usually come with more durable straps that can withstand wear and tear, and they may utilize premium materials such as full-grain leather or high-quality canvas, according to our experts. Bags priced on the lower-end (typically less than $100) might use more affordable materials like polyester or lower-grade leather, Juliff says. If you don’t travel often, “a more affordable option may suffice, but I always like investing in a long-lasting bag that’ll last me many years,” Sykora says.

Meet our experts

At NBC Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure that all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and with no undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.

• Lauren Juliff is a travel blogger who runs the site Never Ending Footsteps .
• Nadine Sykora is a blogger and host of YouTube travel channel Hey Nadine .
• Yolanda Edwards is the founder of travel magazine Yolo Journal .

Why trust NBC Select?

Mili Godio is an editor at Select and has written various travel roundups including the best travel pillows and the best carry-ons . For this article, she interviewed three travel bloggers and writers about how to shop for weekender bags and researched dozens of weekenders on the market to compile a list of the best ones to consider.

Catch up on Select's in-depth coverage of personal finance , tech and tools , wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook , Instagram and Twitter to stay up to date.

Mili Godio is an updates editor for Select on NBC News.

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11 Best Weekender Bags, Tested by Travel Experts

Don't bother with a carry-on when these weekenders can fit everything you need.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

To find the best ones, our Good Housekeeping Institute product analysts tested 22 weekender bags in our Lab and with consumer testers . We evaluated each bag based on ease of packing, comfort when carrying, durability, organizational design and more to find the best weekender bags.

Our top picks:

Best Overall Weekender Bag

Calpak luka duffel.

Best Value Weekender Bag

Bagsmart carry on weekender.

Best Oversized Weekender Bag

Lo & sons catalina deluxe.

Weekender bags are just about any type of bag that's smartly designed for a weekend trip away. As the category continues to expand, we're seeing more and more variations (like weekender backpacks and weekenders with wheels!). When trying a weekender bag for the first time, our testers were impressed with just how useful these bags are, and many opted to use them on more than just weekend trips; they're great to use as a gym bag, overnight bag, tote bag, personal item and more.

After you shop through our top-tested picks, keep reading to learn more about what to look in a great weekender, information about how we test and answers to your pressing questions about travel bags.

Perfectly suited to a weekend trip, this puffy weekender bag from Calpak checked every box in our tests. The sleek material was easy to wipe clean and stayed in great shape use after use. It has a thoughtful design with a large exterior pocket, a separate shoe compartment and internal organizational features. The shoulder strap was comfortable to carry and there is a removable crossbody strap as well. It's currently available in five stylish shades, like chocolate brown, light pink and bright green.

In our packing test, this bag fit everything on our list with room to spare, and it was a tester favorite for being just the right size. One tester brought this bag as her personal item for a two-week trip and found it the perfect size to hold everything she needed while traveling. She said, "This bag fits everything I need and more! The puffy design is chic with a durable exterior. I appreciated the well-organized interior with multiple zipper compartments, a luggage sleeve, a separate shoe compartment and even a side water bottle holder.

It also poured while I was traveling and everything inside this bag stayed perfectly dry." She did, however, notice a bit of the stitching unraveling around the trolley sleeve. It's best suited for casual weekend travel instead of outdoor adventure wear.

Most weekender bags retail for over $100, but this affordable option from BAGSMART starts at around $35. It's made from very lightweight nylon fabric and weighs under 2 pounds, so it won't weigh you down too much if you're walking through a new city or running through the airport.

Available in nine colors and earning over 2,000 rave Amazon reviews, this popular bag has two size options, medium and large. The medium size is within most airline size limits for a personal item while the large is better suited for longer trips.

Testers were impressed with just how much they could fit in this bag. One tester said, "It's especially great for overpackers" thanks to the "super roomy interior and convenient exterior pockets." The material is on the thinner side and some testers noticed a bit of wear and tear after a long trip.

Lo & Sons Catalina Deluxe

Overpackers, this is the bag for you. Testers and analysts were both impressed with just how much they could fit in this Lo & Sons bag. It fit the most out of all the weekender bags we tested, even multiple pairs of shoes. One tester said, "This large weekender bag makes packing and traveling easy," and another shared, " I love the thoughtful design and lightweight nature of this bag! The separate compartment felt very helpful, especially for keeping everything organized."

Because of its oversized design, this bag is best suited for car or train travel where there aren't strict size restrictions. This bag is available in both recycled polyester and canvas with two size options. Testers generally preferred the smaller size as it was still quite spacious.

When the bag was fully packed, testers noted that it was quite heavy to carry, even with the padded shoulder strap. The brand recently launched the Catalina Supreme (largest size option) and the Catalina Deluxe Tote (smaller, personal-item-sized pick).

Beis The Mini Weekender

Many credit the Beis weekender with starting the weekender bag trend in the first place. Available in a range of colors, this chic bag has a classic shape and thoughtful design. It features easily accessible pockets (on the interior and exterior) for added convenience when traveling.

"I like that it sits upright and that the top has structure when it opens, which makes it easier to rifle around in ," shared one tester. The shoe compartment is also structured, which gives the bag a nice shape, but testers found it created a bit of wasted space as they didn't want to pack other items with their shoes. We appreciate that this bag has metal feet on the bottom to protect the base and we like the padded laptop sleeve too.

We tested both the original weekender bag and the mini version. Our testers preferred the mini size as they found the original too large for weekend trips. Plus, the mini size is compliant with airline personal item size restrictions and costs less than $100. Note that during packing tests, we found the zippers a bit finicky to open and close when the bag fully packed.

Herschel Novel Duffle

Great for all types of travel, this versatile duffel from Herschel is compact enough to use as a large weekender bag but spacious enough it could also work for a much longer trip.

It has a classic design with a 600-denier recycled polyester body and faux leather shoulder straps. The material proved to be very durable in our abrasion resistance tests in the Lab. There is a separate shoe compartment and removable crossbody strap with ample cushioning.

Ideal for long weekends or week-long trips , this bag fit everything in our carry-on suitcase packing test. One tester even said "This bag felt never-ending! I was impressed with just how much I could fit." Testers appreciated how comfortable this bag is to carry, but one tester said the crossbody strap broke; she did applaud the brand's customer service for helping her quickly with the issue.

Dagne Dover Landon Neoprene Carryall Bag

Dagne Dover is a favorite brand among GH editors for a reason: the bags are thoughtfully designed for travel, trendy and comfortably fit everything you need.

In our packing tests, we loved how well-organized this bag was with a padded laptop sleeve, a pouch for a water bottle and an exterior phone pocket . Testers agreed with one saying, "I love how many pockets and organizational features it has. It comes with a bag for shoes and a little mesh-looking zipper bag that I actually put my chargers and stuff in, and it clips onto a string inside so it doesn't get lost at the bottom of my bag."

This pick is available in five sizes; we found that the large size is best suited for weekend trips, but the medium and extra-large sizes could also work depending on your preferences. This bag uses the brand's signature neoprene material, which we found to pill a bit after extensive use.

Away The Large Everywhere Bag

Ideal for business travel, this sturdy weekender bag keeps its shape even when not full. Away is a best-selling travel brand, offering top-performing carry-on suitcases that consistently ace our luggage testing. The material is water-resistant for easy cleaning after traveling. When packing, we appreciated that the bag fully opens up like a suitcase, so it's easier to place your clothes inside. The leather straps add a chic touch.

"It is easy to pack a lot more than expected because the mesh helps compress everything," said one tester. "It also has extra storage in the fronts of both sides which is great for smaller/flatter things." There is a back sleeve to conveniently place this bag on top of a rolling suitcase; testers said this was key as the bag was quite heavy to carry when fully packed. Note that the Large size would qualify as a carry-on and not a personal item when flying. There are also Small and Medium size options.

Vera Bradley Performance Twill Grand Weekender Travel Bag

Vera Bradley is well known for its classic floral and paisley duffel bags. This weekender version is more compact than the larger duffel, and it's available in both colorful and neutral shades.

This bag can easily squish into tighter, oddly shaped spaces, so you can shove in the trunk between suitcases when traveling. It features a large interior, a roomy exterior zippered pocket (which could be used for one small pair of shoes), a zippered luggage sleeve and two side water bottle holders. It's sleek and easy to wipe clean, thanks to the brand's newer performance twill material.

When traveling, one tester reported, " The fabric was soft and the construction made it easy to fit into smaller spaces . I liked the size of the bag too. It would be an easy carry-on and is the perfect size for a weekend away. The straps were also very comfortable." Testers did wish this bag included a larger separate shoe compartment.

Patagonia Black Hole Duffel Bag 40L

Head on a camping trip or any outdoor adventure with this durable, best-selling pack from Patagonia. This pick can be worn as both a shoulder bag and as a backpack , which is very helpful on longer walks. It's made with 900-denier recycled polyester ripstop with a TPU-film laminate, which impressed us in the Lab for its extreme durability and water resistance.

The padded base helps prevent scuffs or damage from rocks or rougher terrain. While it's available in four sizes, the 40L option is weekender-sized while the others are better suited for longer trips. Testers were blown away with just how much they could fit in this aptly named Black Hole pack. One tester said, "I liked the mesh zipper pocket on the lid (this compartment is perfect for underwear, bathing suits, socks, etc.) and the second zippered pocket which the entire bag can fold into for storage or you can use as a compartment when using the bag."

Multiple testers reported that it was confusing to figure out how to buckle the backpack straps, but once they had them secure, it was a very helpful feature.

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack

Acing our backpack testing, this Cotopaxi backpack cinched the top spot in our best travel backpacks round-up . This backpack opens up flat like a suitcase for easy packing, and it fits an impressive amount — even more than some of the carry-on suitcases we've tested . One tester even said,"I love this backpack. It fits approximately two weeks' worth of clothes in the bag. It has an amazing number of compartments [with] structure and the overall look is fantastic."

We appreciated the padding on the back for comfort and convenience while traveling and both the hip and sternum strap for extra support. The brand is known for its bright colors, but this bag is also available in neutrals. Note that this backpack doesn't have a trolley sleeve, so it won't rest easily on top of a suitcase.

Emma Seymour (she/her) is a senior product analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she has led testing for luggage, pillows, towels, tampons and more since 2018. She graduated from Cornell University with a bachelor of science in fiber science and apparel design and a minor in gerontology, completing research in the Body Scanner Lab on optimizing activewear for athletic performance. 

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• Duffel Bags
• Duffel Bags: The Buying Guide

Best Duffel Bags in 2024 | Tested by Survivalists & Travelers

These duffel bags include only products tested in the field by hand-picked individuals with profiles that demand good outdoor apparel.

To learn more about how these bags were tested, click here or scroll down below.

A duffel bag, often alternatively spelled as “duffle bag,” stands out as a versatile accessory for various needs. We have chosen duffels with a waterproof design, backpack-style products, models equipped with durable wheels for smooth transport, or options abundant in compartments, pockets, and lash points for organized storage.

Our writers and editors have been using duffels for all the activities we practice and test for, making our experience one based on longer evidence and observation. Take note of the features and the cost of this curated list of options. We’ve actually tested and used all of them. Read about how we tested them below.

Prices are also compared down below, too.

The Quick 6 of the Best Duffel Bags in 2024

Backcountry.com

• The North Face Base Camp

Where to buy:

Where to buy the north face base camp:.

The North Face Base Camp Duffel is available in sizes ranging from a minimal 31L to a colossal 150L. The 31L is good for both rugged adventures or trips to the gym. The 50L is accepted as a carry-on by most airlines and from there, the larger sizes are great for just about anything you can throw them at.

I’ve got a lot of trust in these bags for some of the most demanding voyages sailing in open vessels and camping in rough terrain. The Base Camp design is also useful for organization–if you have packing cubes.

Its strength lies not in the availability of pockets, but rather in the simplicity. Two side pockets work for smaller items, but there’s no shoe compartment.

The main compartment is easily accessible and flexible, so you can pack your duffel to the brim.

• Best Suited For: Hiking, Day Trips, Outdoor activities, Travel
• Material: 1000-denier phthalate-free thermoplastic elastomer fabric laminate/840-denier ballistic nylon
• Volume: 95L
• Dimensions: 15.75 x 27.56 x 15.75 inches
• Weight: 4.1 pounds

Things we like:

Things we don't like:.

Backcountry

Gregory Alpaca Backpack Duffel

Where to buy Gregory Alpaca Backpack Duffel:

These Gregory Alpaca duffels are made with the same 900D Polyester Ripstop with TPU weather-resistant coating as the Patagonia Black Hole duffels. Although initially seemingly similar, these Gregory Alpacas have a few tricks up their sleeves .

One of these great features is an external pocket that keeps dirty shoes and laundry separate from the main compartment.

The Gregory Alpaca is available in 40L, 60L, 80L, and 100L for overnight trips or something that demands more gear. Their weather and abrasion-resistant padded bottom and reinforced grab handles make them a reliable choice for any urban outing or rugged expedition .

• Sizes/Volumes: 40L, 60L, 80L, 100L
• Dimensions: 22.83” x 13.39” x 11.42” | 12.76” x 27.52” x 15” | 28.74” x 28.35” x 12.99” | 31” x 17.5” x 14.5”
• Colors: Obsidian Black, Fir Green, Red Rock, Slate Blue, Mirage Tan
• Weight: 2.65lbs, 3.38lbs, 3.54lbs, 3.92lbs
• Material: 40% Recycled 900D Polyester Ripstop with TPU Weather resistant coating, 40% Post-consumer Recycled 135D Polyester with PFC-Free DWR, EVA Foam

Stahlsac Abyss Duffel Bag

Where to buy Stahlsac Abyss Duffel Bag:

If you’re on the hunt for a sturdy duffel bag that can protect your gear from Mother Nature’s worst, Stahlsac Abyss duffel bags can be quite compelling.

Backpack straps and a durable bottom with a squarish main compartment come in handy with larger gear items. But that will appeal to other travellers too.

Designed with divers in mind, this duffel bag is made with weatherproof ultra-durable TPU nylon that’ll protect your gear from all the elements and any inevitable boating mishaps.

Coming in a cabin-sized convenient 50L, a medium 75L, and a robust 100L, these Stahlsac Abyss duffel bags seem like they can endure any storm that comes their way.

• Sizes: 50L, 75L and 100L
• Dimensions: 50L: 22.25”x14”x10” / 56.5x35.5x25.5cm
• (L x W x H): 75L: 28”x14”x12” / 71x35.5x30.5cm
• 100L: 33.25”x15.75”x13.75” / 84.5x40x35cm
• Color : Grey
• Weight: 50L: 2.4lbs / 1.1kg
• 75L: 2.9lbs / 1.3kg
• 100L: 3.4lbs / 1.5kg
• Material: Weatherproof & strong double-TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) laminated
• nylon material and RF-welded seams.

STUBBLE & CO.

Stubble & Co The Weekender

Where to buy Stubble & Co The Weekender:

Stubble & Co has been making some interesting bags defined by function and form. The Weekender is the company’s premium travel bag designed to accommodate overnight getaways and weekend-long business trips. Its dimensions make it a carry-on that will fit in the overhead compartment of a plane and its design will appeal to travelers that might want something a little more elegant.

This “Designed in London” duffel will immediately appeal to those traveling with a trolley bag. It has both a laptop sleeve and a trolley sleeve for a complete, carry-on-only setup.

But after getting to know this bag, it seems designed for something a little more too.

Its water-resistant canvas material with a hardened body extends the bag’s area of use as far as glamping. Depending on the gym or country club, it will also do well as a sports bag too.

There are some nice features on this 40-liter weekender bag–typical of the British company’s small, but adroit lineup of bags.

After using this bag for camping, sailing and a weekend trip to the lake, our review measures the success of this travel bags’ intention against our expectations and actual experience.

• Material: Water-repelling British Millerain Tekwax canvas, full-grain leather, 100% cotton lining
• Packed Dimensions: W 55 (22) x H 30 (12) x D 25 (10) cm (in)
• Weight: 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs.)
• Capacity: 40L
• Style: Weekender
• Size: Cabin-sized
• Colors: Black, Olive, Pirate, Navy

Peak Design

Peak Design 65L Travel Duffel

Where to buy Peak Design 65L Travel Duffel:

Peak Design has another product that will excite and please organization-obsessed travelers.

The Travel Duffel has a lot of pockets, specialized pockets for items like SD memory cards, power banks and notebooks. It took our two testers some time before they optimized their packing approach, but PD’s bags are similar to Apple products in that they are great when used the way they were designed.

Additionally, Peak Design packing cubes really take advantage of this bags organization strengths, but add another cost/benefit analysis that might scare casual travelers away.

As part of our duffel bag review guide, this bag passed our gauntlet of tests. So, the Peak Design Travel Duffel is also a capable bag in the face of abuse and rain. It’s just not ideal for any kind of hike.

• Materials: 600D Nylon Canvas Shell with DWR Coating, 900D Nylon Base, #10 UltraZips, Hypalon Pulls
• Capacity: 65 Liters
• Dimension: 13.4” x 29.9” x 12.6”
• Weight: 2.9 lbs.

Rains Texel Duffel Bag

Where to buy Rains Texel Duffel Bag:

The waterproof, backpack capable Rains Texel Duffel Bag is as stylish as it is versatile. While the smaller 34L works really well as a gym bag for the yoga studio, the larger option makes for a great weekender, travel duffle. It can stay upright almost anywhere, making it easy to grab and carry with its multiple handles and design .   

It features a reinforced bottom with Rains’ signature soft DWR PU material on the upper. Rains has done a good job of improving the sustainability profile of their production and sourcing too.

The Texel’s main compartment is large and it has several mesh pockets inside and out. It is a good multi-purpose solution at a lower price than one might expect from this company. Not much for organization, but it hits home on style and water protection.

• Material: 100% polyester with polyurethane coating
• Capacity: 56 liters / 14.8 gallons
• Dimensions: H34 x W62 x D34cm / H13.4 x W24.4 x D13.4 inches
• Weight: 1260 gr / 2.77 pounds
• Waterproof rating: W3 – Waterproof protection from light rain

Jack Wolfskin

Jack Wolfskin 65L Expedition Trunk

Where to buy Jack Wolfskin 65L Expedition Trunk:

We in continental America live in a bit of a vacuum of influence when it comes to our outdoor equipment. Occasionally, I’ll have the chance to take a look at gear from European manufacturers- in this case it’s Jack Wolfskin’s 65L Expedition Trunk, a sensibly priced alternative to “adventure duffles” employed by travelers and explorers alike.

This heavy-hitting German retailer has one foot in the outdoor sporting world and another in urban “athleisure” wear. A closer look at the trunk reveals it’s firmly rooted in this dichotomy- taking aim somewhere between an overbuilt gear bag and a versatile valise. For a weekend at the cabin or living out of it for weeks at a time, the duffle certainly merits further investigation.

• Stowable padded shoulder straps
• Large and lockable D-zip
• Reinforced webbing carrying handles
• External gear loops
• 3 Meshed internal compartments
• Water-resistant external pocket
• 1680D fabric construction

Osprey Transporter 65L

Where to buy Osprey Transporter 65L:

The Osprey Transporter duffel doesn’t have too many features that separate it from other options. The best features of this pack are easily the u-zip opening and the solid quality of the zippers and shoulder straps.

I tested the 65-liter variant on a 14-day sailing and camping voyage, plus other smaller weekend trips. It proved to be a robust bag that protects against some considerable abuse (read review) as well as rain.

It’s a moderately expensive bag that returns substantial returns in experience measured by potential days of use and protection.

• Material: 840D Nylon TPU Double Coated
• Volume: 65L
• Dimensions: 23.6 X 14.2 X 12.6 inches
• Weight: 3.1 pounds

Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler 60

Where to buy Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler 60:

A solid and practical duffel backpack is the Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler.

Tested against conditions that get it dirty, sat on and tossed about, the 60 liter Cargo Hauler we used several times did well. With a robust construction using Bi-Tech™ Armor Lite fabric, this duffel is water-resistant and can handle frequent travel.

The bag features versatile carrying options, including padded backpack straps, top handles, and side grab handles for easy maneuverability.

• Best Suited For: Hiking, Day Trips, Camping, Weekend trips
• Material: 600D TPU, 1000D Helix™ Poly Twill
• Volume: 60L
• Dimensions: 26.75 x 10.25 x 13.5 inches
• Weight: 2.3 pounds

Stubble & Co

Stubble & Co. The Kit Bag Duffel

Where to buy Stubble & Co. The Kit Bag Duffel:

This bag stays true to the Stubble & Co signature phrase ‘go anywhere, do everything.’

The Kit by Stubble & Co comes at 38L and is not a typical gym bag .

Its versatile hybrid character is its top-selling point. It can be carried as a backpack and by removing the shoulder straps, you are left with a sleek, stylish duffel for a weekend escape or a carry-on , all in one.

For an above-average but more than reasonable price, you get multiple pockets, a padded laptop sleeve and a separate shoe compartment protected by Stubble’s durable and sustainable fabrics.

• Material: Recycled 200D & 900D PET & TPU fabrics, water-resistant zips, vegan-friendly
• Capacity: 10 gallons / 38L
• Dimensions: 21.26 x 8.66 x 13.77 inches / 54 x 22 x 35 cm
• Weight: 3.3 lbs / 1.5 kg
• Waterproof rating: Waterproof, suitable for light rain

Related Reviews

Read full review

Why Trust This Guide

The primary reviewer of this guide, yours truly, has extensive experience with duffel bags. I used to spell it “duffle” while I was canoe tripping and sailing. Not until I started systematically testing bags 5 years ago, did I understand what Dernier means and how to value some of the more subtle features of these bags.

As is revealed in the image below, I sail two weeks on an open 72-foot viking ship with 30-40 others, each bringing along one or more duffle bags. During these 14 days, I prod and pry at their bags and at the owners, peppering them with questions about their experience.

Lately, I’ve found it helpful for this guide to lend them duffel bags and enlist their views. The authority of this guide is, therefore, based on a community of research and plenty of data. Most of them are survivalists.

Building on the foundation of testing at sea (saltwater) and camping on land, the duffels have been tested for water protection and features quantitatively and qualitatively respectively.

To measure water protection, the bags were placed outside in the rain for 30 minutes and measured for how much water seeped in.

Continuing some of our stress-testing and probing for any weak points in construction, we took turns with different packs in the shower, pointing the water at the closed zippers to see how well those seams protected the contents from splashes or rain.

This simulates a bag that’s been put on its side, something that I’ve experienced a lot during camping and sailing trips.

Additional testing for any weakness in water protection at the seams and zippers

Choosing the Right Size Duffel for the Price

Duffel bags come in various sizes, from compact 30L models ideal for gym use to spacious 100L options perfect for extended trips.

Popular choices include the 71L North Face Base Camp and the 60L Gregory Alpaca. Consider your needs and budget, as prices vary from stylish options like the Rains Texel at $170 to premium models like the Peak Design 65L at $169.

Evaluate your gear requirements to select the best duffel bag that offers optimal capacity and value for your investment.

What is a Duffel Bag

Duffel bags were originally designed to give you the possibility to carry your gym gear and travel-related items in one safe and secure place. They were also used utilized for storing the same pieces in a dust-free and moisture-free place. As more and more brands started releasing their versions of duffel bags, their purpose became more diverse than ever.

Rock-climbing amateurs along with avid world travelers and extreme sports fanatics started purchasing duffel packs that would meet their particular needs. Nowadays they are the go-to accessory that every other person has in their wardrobe regardless of the leisure activity he or she dives in every now and again. This means that you will certainly find the right model of the duffel bag from the 20 items we reviewed in this guide.

Take into consideration factors like purpose, size, features, and price, and you will be able to narrow down your list to just one model that fits your requirements the best.

Backpack Duffel Designs

Backpack duffel designs combine the convenience of a backpack with the spaciousness of a duffel bag, making them a versatile choice for travelers and adventurers. These hybrid bags are designed to offer the best of both worlds, with features that cater to a variety of needs.

One of the primary advantages of backpack duffels is their versatility. They can be carried on the back, allowing for hands-free movement, or by their handles, like a traditional duffel. This makes them ideal for situations where you need to switch between carrying styles, such as navigating through airports or hiking to a campsite.

Dernier Explained

The numbers standing next to the word ‘Denier’ are commonly used to showcase the durability of the item from the material’s point of view. Always expressed by a number with a “D” at the end. The higher the number is, the more long-lasting the duffel bag (in our case) is.

It is essential to remember that deniers of the same value may still vary in quality depending on the type of used fabric. But that is a good measure to look out for when choosing one bag from the big crowd of bags. Don’t be alarmed by the two values the denier some manufacturers can mention for some particular bags. Usually, the higher one refers to the bottom part of the bag’s fabric, whereas the lower one refers to the top part of the bag’s fabric.

More Fun Outside

Get more Outdoor fun in this series:  Duffel Bags ,  Dry Bags ,  Hiking Backpacks ,  Waterproof Backpacks , Waterproof Watches,  Waterproof Cameras ,  Waterproof Jacket ,  Windbreaker Jackets ,  Life Jackets ,  Selfie Sticks  & much more.

Frequently asked questions

Duffel bags have become the ‘go-to’ for many travelers, hikers, and sports enthusiasts over the last few decades – they are comfortable to carry, weigh less than  Hiking Bags , and are affordable.

This prompted us to create a  duffel bag guide  that comprises the best items available on the market.

Check out our top choices:

• Patagonia Black Hole 55L
• Samsonite Luggage Andante Wheeled Rolling Duffel Bag
• Osprey Transporter 65 Bag
• Kenneth Cole Reaction Colombian Leather Duffel
• The North Face Rolling Thunder 22”
• NIKE Brasilia Training Duffel
• Thule Chasm 70L Duffel

Read full reviews of each duffel bag on DIVEIN.COM by clicking the links above.

While there are dozens of duffel bags out there, the standard size of the duffel that suits most people’s needs is 22 x 14 x 9 inches.

The Marmot Long Hauler Duffel Bag  is 25 x 10.5 x 10.5 inches. The Osprey Transporter is 24 x 14 x 13 inches.  The North Face Rolling Thunder  is 22 x 14 x 8.5 inches

Surely, there are rolling duffels that are bigger than that and athletic duffels that tend to be smaller, so rest assured you will find the bag of the dimensions that will meet your specific criteria. Check out our guide for Duffel Bags in all Sizes and shapes .

Unless you are bringing with you multiple pieces of bulky equipment, duffel bags are almost always the better alternative to a suitcase .

Duffel bags don’t weigh a lot, they are quick to pack and easy to transport. It is basically the most practical type of bag you could ever invest in.

Thankfully, there are countless duffel bags options on the market, which means you can find the one that will meet the onboard requirements.

Before purchasing a duffel bag for traveling purposes, make sure to check the airlines’ requirements so that you are not stuck with a bag that is too large to pass as a carry-on.

The beauty of duffel bags hides in the fact that a vast majority of them can be worn in several different ways. One of them, you guessed it, is on your back.

Click on these duffel backpacks we found to be the best in this category:

• YETI Panga 75
• Arc’teryx Carrier Duffel 55L Bag
• Timbuk2 Impulse Travel Backpack
• Marmot Long Hauler Duffel Backpack

If the Duffle Backpack doesn’t fit your needs, you can check out the  Hiking Backpacks ,  Travel Backpacks  or  Waterproof Backpacks .

If you already have a Duffel Backpack or you just bought one, leave a comment in the comment section below and share your experience with it.

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Table of content:, breadcrumbs.

• / Duffel Bags
• / Duffel Bags: The Buying Guide

Hi, I have bought the NIKE Brasilia Training Duffel bag and it had good stitching, material quality but without waterproof

Yes, but we’ve not tested their line of duffel bags.

Ever heard of Bad Bags???

Continue reading

MIER Men´s Tactical Cargo

Steiner T1042

Vasque St. Elias GTX

Vortex Optics Crossfire HD

Gallery of duffel bags: the buying guide review.

One full scuba set with a 5mm wetsuit can fit into the 50L

A view of how rigid the Kit Bag is when carried like a straight duffel.

• Waterproof Backpacks
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• The Best All-inclusive Resorts in the World

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• Best Dive Sites in the World
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• The Best Starboard Paddle Boards: A Brand Guide
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• Red Paddle Co. Ride 10’6
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• All Liveaboards in Thailand
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• Best Diving in the Caribbean
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The 11 Best Weekender Bags With Separate Shoe Compartments, Tested and Reviewed

Hit the road or the jetway for a quick escape and keep your footwear out of the way.

Rena Behar is a freelance journalist and editor focusing on tech, travel, and gender. She has contributed to Travel + Leisure, TripSavvy, and more.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Whether you’re sneaking off for a beach weekend or heading out to the mountains, a quick weekend getaway deserves a good bag of its own. The best weekender bags will hold enough clothes for a few different activities without weighing you down — and of course, those activities all require shoes of their own. Rather than letting all that sand or trail dirt collect on your clothes, a separate shoe compartment keeps your dirty footwear contained and clothes unbothered.

We tested 37 bags, including weekenders, duffels, and convertible garment bags, checking for capacity, design, portability, durability, and value across all contenders. While we’ll keep our long-term tests going for an additional six months, upon our initial testing, these were our winners for the best weekender bags with shoe compartments.

Best Overall

Béis the weekender.

Plenty of space, smart structure, a slew of organizational features, and a reasonable price tag all put this weekender ahead of the competition.

If you're flying with this bag, you'll need to place it in an overhead bin because of its size.

Béis has been popping up on stylish travelers’ radar for a while, and its popularity is well-deserved. We were extremely impressed by the Weekender’s capacity, holding everything we needed with space leftover for a laptop in the designated pocket. It can basically fit everything you’d put in a rolling carry-on , thanks to the large zippered bottom compartment and roomy main space. The main compartment opens similar to a folding laundry hamper, with a rectangular shape held open by a wire frame, creating an extra-spacious opening to fit in all your items without having to squish them. Even better, it can still fit in an overhead bin even when fully packed.

You’ll also find a whole slew of organizational features inside and outside the bag, with external pockets on either side (including one that can unzip on the bottom to become a trolley pass-through), a padded laptop pocket with a fabric fastener strap to keep your computer in place, internal slip and zipper pockets, and more. Even when loaded up, we found it comfortable to carry via either the hand straps or the padded, adjustable shoulder strap, with no digging into your shoulder or annoying banging into your leg or hip. It also held up well against we shoved it off the counter multiple times, and everything inside stayed nearly perfectly in place. The only scuffing happened to the small feet on the bottom, but really, no one is looking at the bottom of your bag anyway. The cherry on top is the affordable price tag, coming in at just over $100, and eight colors to choose from, whether you prefer neutral beige or trendy pink.

The Details: 19 x 9.8 x 15.7 inches | 3.86 pounds | 49-liter capacity | Poly canvas

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Travel + Leisure / Leticia Almeida

Cotopaxi Viaje Weekender Bag

This durable tote features exterior straps for a yoga mat, a towel, or a longboard for a weekend on the go.

It can only fit about two days worth of clothing, so it may not work for overpackers.

We especially loved this tote bag for its lightweight, durable material and thoughtful features, like the exterior straps on the outside that can hold long items like a yoga mat or a towel . The zippers felt sturdy and smooth, and we liked that they had little tags on them to make it easier to open and close them. This bag does not have a crossbody strap like most weekenders — instead, it has two short handles and two longer handles so you can either carry it by your hands or over your shoulder like a tote bag . We thought the material feels like it can handle tough outdoor weather conditions and not get ruined, which would be great for camping or a beach day . It can only fit about two days worth of clothing, but that keeps it from getting too heavy since it doesn’t have the crossbody strap, and the bottom compartment adds some extra space.

The Details: 21 x 15 x 12 inches | 1.5 pounds | 35-liter capacity | Recycled polyester

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Best Colors

Calpak luka duffel bag.

The puffy material and fun color options make this weekender stand out without being too bulky.

There is a laptop sleeve, but it does not have any protective cushioning.

One of our favorite things about this poofy, lightweight bag is that it comes in about 20 different colors that are so fun to choose from, including bright, limited-edition shades like watermelon, bubble gum, celery, cobalt, and rose gold, or more neutral staples like chocolate, oatmeal, and matte black. There are so many options that it’s nearly impossible to pick just one. The duffel comes with a removable crossbody strap and long, puffy shoulder strap, and we found the shoulder straps much more comfortable to carry than the crossbody strap during testing. There is a shoe compartment that you can access from the side of the bag that ultimately lines the bottom of the bag. You should be able to fit two pairs of shoes or one pair of boots comfortably inside. There are multiple pockets inside for organization, including a laptop sleeve — although we wish it were padded for more protection. The size of the bag is compact, fitting enough for a two-night trip, but it also comes in a larger size for longer trips.

The Details: 12 x 16 x 7 inches | 2.1 pounds | 22-liter capacity | Polyester

Best Lightweight

Dagne dover landon carryall bag.

This softside bag feels both spacious and lightweight.

It does develop some visible creases at the fold points, but they aren’t too noticeable.

If you want to make sure your bag doesn’t weigh you down, the neoprene or mesh of the Landon may make it the best weekender for you. We tested the large version, which comes in 10 colors in neoprene and three colors in Dagne Dover’s air mesh fabric; there are also four other sizes available, from XS to XL. It had plenty of space for our packing list and could even have fit an extra pair of shoes or additional outfit with the sides unsnapped. Rather than a specific separate compartment, it instead includes a shoe-specific bag that matches the external material. There are also several interior pockets, one exterior pocket ideal for stashing your phone, and a trolley sleeve. The hand-carry handles snap together, and you can also snap down the zipper on the sides to make it more compact. If you don’t want to hand-carry, there’s also an adjustable, removable shoulder strap. Because the fabric is so flexible, we found it developed some creases at the fold points, which aren’t too noticeable but did keep it from looking completely pristine.

The Details: 16.5 x 9 x 11 inches | 3.06 pounds | 29-liter capacity | Neoprene or air mesh

Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph

Travel + Leisure / Nick Kova

Best Rolling Duffel

Solo rolling duffel.

This spacious duffel is small enough to be a carry-on and maneuvers easily thanks to its smooth wheels. 

It could use a few more interior pockets.

Useful, transportable, and packable, the Leroy Rolling Duffel is extremely spacious, and we were able to easily fit everything on our packing list with room to spare. We loved the large shoe compartment and felt like we could fit two or three pairs in it, depending on shoe size. This bag is well designed, offering several external pockets great for smaller items or things you need to access quickly. It has smooth zippers, and the telescoping handle added to the rolling duffel’s maneuverability — the easy-glide wheels worked well in all of our tests and even navigated curbs without issue. The durable, high-quality material stood up to our testing really well, too, and we liked that the bag meets carry-on requirements (for most airlines). It’s difficult to fault this duffel but if we had to choose something to change, we could do with a few more interior pockets.

The Details: 12 x 22 x 12 inches | 6.04 pounds | 49-liter capacity | Polyester

Best Budget

Etronik large overnight weekender.

This budget-friendly pick includes two shoe covers and a small pouch, and the bottom shoe compartment has air vents.

We wish the nylon material was thicker to better protect the bag, and there is no laptop sleeve.

This affordable weekender is an amazing value considering how spacious it is and all of its thoughtful features. The nylon material is waterproof and the bottom shoe compartment has two air vents to prevent shoes or dirty clothing from stinking up the bag. We were able to fit two pairs of shoes, including heeled booties, in the bottom compartment, and we think there was enough room to even fit taller boots. There are two external pockets to hold water bottles, a USB charging port with a phone pocket nearby, and more pockets inside — although there is no laptop sleeve. The bag also comes with two shoe bag covers and a small pouch that you can use for small items, which we thought was great for maximizing storage and keeping items protected. The 55-liter bag was pretty large but not overwhelming to wear or carry thanks to the lightweight material and shoulder padding. We do wish the material was a little thicker and more structured to better protect belongings, but we were impressed by this budget-friendly option nonetheless. It is also available in more than 40 colors, so there truly is something for everyone.

The Details: 21.7 x 16.5 x 9.4 inches | 2.2 pounds | 55-liter capacity | Nylon

Monos Metro Weekender

The Metro holds a truly impressive amount within its sleek exterior, which also won’t show scuffs even if you have to gate-check it.

It can get heavy quickly, especially if you take advantage of its large capacity.

If you believe your vacation style starts before you’ve even left home, the Monos Weekender is your best bet. The capacity is truly impressive, fitting clothing for five days while still being able to slide under an airplane seat — we even managed to fit four pairs of shoes in the bottom shoe compartment. It also has a laptop pocket in the back exterior and several interior organizational pockets (though we would have liked a water bottle holder as well). When carrying, use the trolley sleeve (which you can also zip to turn into a pocket) to place it on top of a suitcase, sling it on with a removable shoulder strap, or use the hand-carry handles in your hands or over your shoulder. We tested the nylon model (it also comes in a vegan leather option) and found it ridiculously durable, even when we had to check it through on a flight. You can choose from four darker shades in the nylon style, or three different brown vegan leather hues; both styles are water-resistant.

The Details: 19.25 x 10.25 x 14.75 inches | 5.18 (nylon) or 5.34 (vegan leather) pounds | 47.5-liter capacity | Nylon or microfiber vegan leather

Best Garment Bag

Mark & graham commuter 2-in-1 garment bag.

This garment bag is packed with hidden pockets and can unzip so that it's completely open and flat.

The zippers are prone to snagging.

Garment bags offer a convenient way to hang items like suits—making them a great option for a men's weekender . During our testing, this stood out for its ample organizational features and the way you can lay it flat. It folds from a flat garment bag into a duffel, with two separate pouches for shoes on the ends. It’s easy to manipulate throughout the process, with a smooth folding process and zippers — though we noticed the zippers tend to snag a bit after we tested it for six months. It held all of our packing list with ease and has thoughtful features like a phone pocket, a hook for clothing, and internal button compartments. It also still felt light even after being packed full, while still feeling durable enough to stand up to stiletto scratches, and the leather padding on the straps was very comfortable. We also love that it's water-resistant, and you can customize it with initials.

The Details: 22 x 10 x 10 inches | Nylon and leather

• Travel + Leisure/Jhett Thompson

Best Organization

Arlo skye the weekender.

There are tons of pockets, pouches, and places to organize pretty much anything you need for a weekend away.

The padding does not move with the adjustable shoulder strap, so it may not align perfectly with your shoulder.

This structured weekender looks very minimalist but, like many of our favorite Arlo Skye luggage pieces , it has a ton of thoughtful features for packing swiftly and efficiently. There are slip pockets and a big zippered pocket on the inside, and a very large zippered pocket on both sides of the bag (large enough to fit a jacket if needed) containing various slip pockets and smaller zippered pockets for laptops, tablets, chargers, books, and more. The shoe compartment on the side is also very helpful for separating items. Although the bag is spacious, it’s still compact enough to fit underneath an airplane seat as a personal item , and it’s lightweight and easy to carry. The shoulder strap is adjustable, but the padding on it is not, so it may not line up perfectly with your shoulder unless you have the strap set at just the right length. We tested the lighter mint color of this bag, which didn’t get dirty or damaged at all when we flung it off a table onto the floor multiple times. If mint isn’t your vibe, it also comes in black. Another plus: it has an RFID lining for added security.

The Details: 20.5 x 9.1 x 11.4 inches | 2.4 pounds | 31-liter capacity | Nylon/polyester blend

Most Durable

Travelpro x travel + leisure drop-bottom weekender bag.

The shoe compartment easily fits four or five pairs of shoes, and the material feels extremely durable.

We wish it had more pockets or other organizational features.

This spacious weekender holds multiple outfits, a toiletry kit , a makeup bag , and more in its wide main compartment and the separate shoe compartment easily fits up to five pairs of shoes. The main compartment also features a zippered pocket inside to store valuables and one small open pocket on the outside for items you'll want quick access to while you're on the go. We love that this large bag still fits easily under airplane seats, so you can use it either as a personal item or carry-on bag, depending on your packing needs. Throughout our tests, we tossed the entire packed bag off a table, and the fabric didn't show any signs of rips, snags, or even dirt transfer, making it feel extremely sturdy and durable. We also love the padded shoulder strap that made carrying the heavy duffel comfortable and distributed the weight evenly. Unlike other bags with shoe compartments, the Travelpro x Travel + Leisure Drop-bottom Weekender's shoe compartment can also fully detach from the rest of the bag so you can make it even more compact if needed.

The Details: 15 x 8.5 x 9 inches | 3.3 pounds | 42-liter capacity | Cotton, polyester, and leather trim

Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

Best Leather

Deux mains mission essential duffel bag.

This bag is stylish and made of high-quality leather.

It’s on the smaller side, especially if you want to bring a laptop.

If you want a stylish leather duffel , this version from Mission is perfect for traveling light. The material feels very high-quality, with stylish blue accents, and the bag is easy and comfortable to transport thanks to padded handles and a removable padded shoulder strap. This sleek pick works best for overnight trips as it will be a tight squeeze inside for several outfit changes along with toiletries and a laptop. The shoe compartment has its own zipper, but that eats into the interior of the main pocket (and will take up a decent percentage of the available space with larger footwear). We did encounter some problems with the zipper sticking and snagging when the bag was packed full, so be mindful of how much is stashed inside.

The Details: 20 x 11 x 10.5 inches | Leather

Other Weekender Bags With Shoe Compartments We Liked

Here is another bag we tested and liked, although it had some shortcomings.

Halfday The Garment Duffel : This bag starts out as a flat garment bag, then folds up into a duffel shape, creating an additional space in the middle. Overall, we found it easy to pack and use, with well-built and well-planned construction and thoughtful details. However, you can only fit one shoe on each side, limiting the number of pairs you can bring (which could be problematic if you’re packing for, say, a wedding weekend). 

Our tests for the best weekenders with shoe compartments focused on five key attributes: capacity, design, portability, durability, and value. We tested a total of 37 products, including weekenders, duffels, and convertible garment-style bags, and will continue to put them through their paces over the course of six months.

We packed each bag with two pairs of pants (sweatpants and jeans), four shirts, one jacket, one pair of shoes, and a full toiletry bag, noting how much space was (or wasn’t) left once it was full. While packing, we noted the organizational and structural features of each bag, particularly the pockets and zippers. Once the bags were full, we walked around carrying them in all the styles they had available — using the shoulder strap(s), across the body, over the shoulder, and in hand, and noting how comfortable and easy it was to do so. Then it was time for the durability test, which meant dropping the fully packed bags from waist height three to five times, aiming to land on different parts of the bag each time. Once they survived, we also performed an overall value assessment to consider how much we would be willing to pay for each bag, based on their quality, design, and any included accessories.

Travel + Leisure/Jessica Juliao

Tips for Buying Weekenders With Separate Shoe Compartments

Consider your destinations and use cases.

Ideally you’ll only need to own one weekender, so consider your most frequent weekend trip scenarios. Are you traveling a lot for weddings? A foldable garment bag may be your best pick for helping keep your formalwear unwrinkled. Heading into the country? You may want to look for something made of a more durable material and with a larger capacity to hold more gear. You’ll also want to think about your personal tendencies to under or overpack and decide whether you want a smaller or larger bag.

Factor in your additional organizational needs

Shoe compartments aren’t the only form of organization out there. If you’re traveling with your laptop, you may want a bag that has a separate padded sleeve or compartment to keep it safe. One-bag-only travelers may want more external pockets to have smaller items within easy reach in transit, or perhaps you’re an organization fiend who wants an internal pocket for every individual item.

Frequently Asked Questions

Marketing, mostly. Consider a weekender to be a smaller, trendy subcategory of the classic duffel. Weekenders tend to be smaller, while duffel bags overall come in a wider range of sizes. They also tend to be a little more stylish and have more organizational pockets, though that varies across brands. Weekenders also tend to have a few more vertical inches than more cylindrical duffel styles.

If you choose one of our picks above, your shoes will already have a snug little spot of their own to call home. But in addition to a shoe compartment, there are a few other methods you can employ. If you are a devotee of the packing cube lifestyle, many sets now come with included shoe bags, or you can just repurpose one of your packing cubes (though if you prefer a mesh style, dirt may be able to escape that way). If you’d prefer to reuse items around your house (props to you), you can also wrap your shoes in a plastic grocery bag or tuck them inside a shower cap.

Most likely, yes; it depends on the size of your bag and your airline’s size restrictions. Most overhead bin carry-ons are around 22 x 14 x 9 inches, while underseat personal items have much more variance by airline. Check the regulations of your airline to make sure, especially if you’re flying an airline that’s especially strict about the overhead bin vs. underseat storage. Since many of our best weekenders are soft-sided, though, you may have some extra wiggle room if you don’t pack them to capacity.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this story, T+L editors tested 37 different weekender bags with shoe compartments, and Rena Behar used her extensive experience as both a traveler and gear tester and reviewer to organize and supplement their findings. T+L editors will continue long-term testing each bag for six months, and we will update this article with our findings.

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Our Overland Vehicle Systems Canyon Wax Canvas Overnight Travel Bag is handcrafted out of premium Cotton Duck infused with Paraffin, also known as Wax Canvas. This perfect weekender bag offers a great way to organize your toiletries for your next off-road adventure, vacation, business trip, or weekend getaway. 

• Large Storage: Yes
• Handles: Heavy Duty Industrial Nylon Handle
• Heavy-duty zippers: Yes
• Internal Storage Holders: 8 Internal storage pockets and 2 Mesh Storage Pouches
• Hanger: Stainless Steel Hanger
• See Through Storage: 1 See Through Pouch with Zipper
• Mirror: Yes, 1 mirror is included
• Puncture Resistance: Up to 100LBS of water resistance and puncture resistance
• Heavy Duty Velco: Yes, heavy-duty Velcro

The Overland Vehicle Systems Canyon Wax Canvas Overnight Travel Bag construction is a tear-resistant fabric for strength and durability. Our bag is manufactured with Doubled Reinforced Stitching, ensuring that it can withstand heavy use.

**Specifications:** * #16 Wax Canvas * Scuffs and Wear Marks Add Patina to the wax canvas material * Water Resistance: Yes * Warranty: Overland Vehicle Systems comes with a 1 Year Limited Warranty. The warranty includes coverage for products with manufacturing defects in materials and workmanship. * Weight: 2 LBS Overland Vehicle Systems is the Leader in Tool Storage Management, Hard Sided Roof Top Tents, Soft Sided Roof Top Tent, 270 Awnings, 180 Awnings, Pull Out Awnings, Recovery Gear, Air Management, Dry Storage Boxes, Camp Kitchens, Seat Covers for Jeeps, Floor Liners for Jeeps, Replacement Soft Tops and Camping Equipment.

WARNING: This product may contain chemicals known to the state of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm. Learn more

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Seville Travel Bag

R 2,650.00

This travel bag features:

Measurements: 48 x 28 x 21cm, zip that secures the main compartment, complete interior lining.

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