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If you’re planning to do a little shopping on your trip, TFG readers suggest bringing along an extra bag—and not just for souvenirs. These packable duffels come in handy for all kinds of travel needs. Check out their top picks for the best duffel bags!
Travel Duffle Bag
Table Of Contents
Cute duffel bags are becoming a favorite travel accessory, but you might be wondering—do you really need one? For many travelers, the answer is yes.
Duffels come in handy as an extra bag for bringing home souvenirs, organizing overflow items, or even reworking your packing strategy for the flight home. They’re a smart backup to have on hand, especially if they’re lightweight, compact, and spacious enough to carry more than they appear.
Our TFG readers are pros when it comes to travel gear, and they’ve shared their favorite packable duffels that strike the perfect balance between style, function, and convenience.
So whether you’re shopping abroad or simply want a flexible option for your return trip, these top packable duffels make it easy to bring home all the goodies—without the baggage stress.
Want to become a packing pro? Our Stop Overpacking Ebook is the guide for you!
What’s the Best Carry On Duffel Bag for Travel?
Shop: Amazon
Editor’s Pick: Wandf Duffel Bag Carry On
Whether you’re looking for a compact day bag or a larger piece to haul items home, the Wandf is a popular lightweight duffel bag packable in your carry-on that many readers recommend. Weighing just over 1 lb and made to withstand the wear and tear of travel, the Wandf duffel is waterproof, tear-resistant, and wearproof.
After testing several packable duffels during my multiple international moves, this one became my go-to. I’ve used the 40L, 50L, and even the 120L versions, and have been consistently impressed by how durable they are for the price.
The 40L model became my favorite—I even snapped a photo with it on one of my trips! I loved using it to fly to the U.S. with just my carry-on, then unfold the duffel for the return leg to accommodate all my purchases. The built-in trolley sleeve was a lifesaver.
Readers agree. One traveler shared, “I’m in Paris right now and we packed this for our return trip. It has a strap that can go on your luggage for transport.” Another chimed in from Italy, saying, “This bag unfolds into a duffle and I’m impressed with the quality. Also, I like the slit in the back to attach to my suitcase.”
Whether you’re planning to carry-on or check luggage on the way back, the Wandf duffel offers a smart, space-saving way to adapt to your travel needs—and might just become your new favorite too.
Find our why our readers think the Wandf is the surprising winner in the world of duffles in our review!
Samsonite Foldable Duffel Bag
The Samsonite Foldable Tote-A-Ton Duffel lives up to its name as a spacious, featherweight duffel that’s perfect for travelers who always end up bringing more back than they left with. Weighing just 0.84 lbs when empty and made from durable 600 denier nylon polyester, this foldable duffel is an ideal backup bag for overflow packing.
What makes it especially appealing is how much it holds without weighing you down. As one reader puts it, “This one is huge, but lightweight, and has been a workhorse! We’ve used it for years… hauling home clothes while packing purchases in our sturdier suitcase.” It’s a smart solution for anyone who doesn’t want to overpack at the start of their trip but still needs extra space on the return.
Whether you’re heading to a local market, picking up souvenirs, or just need an emergency extra bag, the Tote-A-Ton folds flat when not in use and springs into action when you need it most.
Shop: Eddie Bauer | Macy’s
Eddie Bauer Duffel Bag
Designed for travelers who prioritize space without added weight, the Eddie Bauer Stowaway 45L Duffel is a compact powerhouse. Made from ultralight ripstop polyester and finished with StormRepel RP technology, so you’re covered whether you’re navigating rainy streets or hanging out at the beach.
A built-in trolley sleeve makes it easy to slide onto your suitcase, and the cleverly designed “shoe compartment” keeps footwear separate from your clean clothes. Despite its large capacity, it folds down small enough to stash in a pocket or suitcase, making it a great backup option.
Travelers appreciate its balance of weight and durability. One reader describes it as “lightweight but sturdy,” while another highlights how Eddie Bauer’s foldable bags have become a staple in their travels: “They fold down into my pocket, which makes them a real asset to travel with.”
Shop: Travelpro
Travelpro Foldable Duffel Bag
The Travelpro Essentials SparePack Foldable Duffel is the perfect just-in-case bag for savvy travelers who know the return trip often includes a few extras. Weighing only 0.8 lbs and made from high-density polyester, this duffel offers a smart balance of strength and portability, with a sleek design that doesn’t scream “spare bag.”
It folds neatly into its own compact case, so it can be stashed in your main luggage without taking up valuable space or adding extra weight. As one happy traveler shared, “This foldable duffel comes in handy when I need a quick extra bag. It has been checked-in and no problems.” Whether you use it for souvenirs, laundry, or gear that didn’t quite fit on the way out, it delivers reliable performance when you need it most.
With a convenient luggage strap that slides over your suitcase handle, you can move through airports hands-free—making this lightweight duffel not just a backup, but a true travel essential.
Shop: Nordstrom
Paravel Foldable Travel Duffel Bag
Paravel has quickly become a favorite among style-conscious travelers, and their Water Resistant Fold-Up Bag is a perfect example of why. Weighing in at just 1 lb, this ultralight duffel folds flat and zips into a compact pouch, making it an easy addition to any suitcase. Whether you use it as a day bag, or a solution for overflow packing on your return trip, it’s as functional as it is chic.
Despite its featherweight build, this bag doesn’t skimp on durability. Crafted to be water-resistant and sturdy, it offers peace of mind when you’re carrying everything from clothing to breakable souvenirs. Its sleek design and practical construction make it an elegant answer to those “I-need-an-extra-bag” moments that tend to pop up mid-trip.
Whether you’re strolling through markets, picking up gifts, or separating laundry from clean clothes, this fold-up duffel is a smart, space-saving companion for any type of travel.
Shop: Nordstrom | Macy’s | Baggallini
Baggallini Carryall Packable Tote
The Baggallini Foldable Carry-On Tote Bag is a smart solution for travelers who like to stay organized without sacrificing style. Lightweight and easy to pack, it folds neatly into your luggage or works beautifully as a personal item that fits under most airplane seats—perfect for keeping essentials close at hand.
Equipped with multiple pockets and an expandable design, it offers surprising storage space for its slim profile. The built-in trolley sleeve adds convenience, letting you slide it over your suitcase handle for hands-free travel through busy terminals.
Available in a range of sleek, travel-friendly colors, this tote not only blends with your existing luggage but also adds a functional and fashionable edge to your packing strategy. Whether you’re using it for overflow items, shopping, or as a daily carryall, this foldable tote proves to be a versatile travel companion.
Shop: Eagle Creek
Eagle Creek Lightweight Packable Duffel
f you’re looking for a truly lightweight backup bag, the Eagle Creek Packable Duffel is hard to beat. Weighing less than 5 ounces and packing down to the size of your palm, it’s a minimalist traveler’s dream—taking up virtually no space in your luggage until you need it.
When expanded, it offers an impressive 30 liters of space, making it a surprisingly roomy option for everything from day trips to extra storage on the way home. One TFG reader shared, “I needed a duffel bag to travel to East Africa and this was an excellent packing option,” highlighting just how travel-ready it is, even for international adventures.
Whether you’re stashing souvenirs, organizing gear, or just playing it safe with a backup bag, the Eagle Creek Duffel combines packability and performance in one ultra-convenient package.
Shop: Bagsmart
Bagsmart Travel Duffle Bag
Whether you’re heading on a city break, short business trip beach vacation, or even a safari, the Bagsmart Paz 34L Laptop Duffle offers the style, storage, and flexibility that make it a smart pick for any type of travel.
The bag comes with hand-held straps, a shoulder strap, and removable crossbody straps, allowing you to switch up how you carry it depending on your needs. And when you want to give your shoulders a break, the built-in trolley sleeve makes it easy to slide onto a suitcase handle for smooth airport navigation.
One of the standout elements of this duffel is its exceptional organization. With numerous pockets and compartments—including a dedicated shoe compartment—packing becomes effortless and efficient. As one traveler put it, “The compartments make packing a breeze,” a sentiment echoed by many who appreciate how easy it is to stay organized on the go.
Shop: Nordstrom
Osprey Duffle Bag
Known for their reliable and adventure-ready gear, Osprey delivers once again with the Daylite 35 Travel Duffle Bag. This lightweight yet rugged bag is built for flexibility on the go, with lockable zippers, multiple straps for varied carrying options, and a smart design that includes an end pocket for quick-grab essentials.
Available in 35L, 45L or 60L sizes, the Daylite adapts to your travel style—whether you’re packing light or bringing back more than you expected. Its durable construction, thoughtful storage, and carry-on compatibility make it a versatile choice for everything from weekend getaways to more ambitious multi-stop adventures.
As one reader shares, it’s “great to have an extra bag to throw shoes in if moving between hotels rather than perfectly repacking your suitcase!” Others appreciate the convenience of using it as a secondary bag: “stash your clothes in it when returning and check the duffle,” making space in your carry-on for souvenirs and more fragile items.
Shop: Calpak
Calpak Luka Lightweight Duffel
The Calpak Luka Duffel proves that travel bags can be both stylish and highly functional. Designed with short trips and carry-on convenience in mind, this lightweight duffel packs a punch with nine thoughtfully placed pockets, including a dedicated shoe compartment.
Constructed from water- and scratch-resistant materials, it’s built to handle the inevitable bumps of travel while maintaining its sleek, polished look that is easy to clean. Despite its durable build, it’s impressively soft on the shoulder, thanks to padded straps. Or simply use the trolley sleeve to easy stacking on your suitcase, making toting it through airports or train stations a breeze.
If you’re looking for a compact yet capable duffel that’s as cute as it is practical, the Luka is a standout choice for everything from quick getaways to a polished personal item for longer journeys.
Why Travelers Swear By Packable Duffel Bags
If you already have the perfect functional luggage setup, you might wonder—why add a duffel bag to the mix? According to TFG readers, the answer is simple: flexibility. A packable duffel gives you the freedom to shop, collect souvenirs, or reorganize your packing without stress.
These bags are also great for short excursions during longer trips, like day outings or safaris, when you don’t need to lug your full suitcase. One reader shared her clever strategy: “I am planning on filling my bag up with clothes and packing it inside my carry-on, then checking it for the return trip and packing my Christmas market purchases in the carry-on.”
Another reader offered a similar tip: “I put a foldable backpack or bag inside my carry-on. Then I just check the carry-on and carry my necessities for the flight on the way home in the smaller bag. That way, I can bring all my purchases home without worrying about weight or whether they are liquid.”
From practical overflow storage to packing hacks for souvenirs and gifts, there are so many smart uses for a lightweight, packable duffel. And when they’re this compact and easy to carry—why wouldn’t you bring one along?
Compass Rose Carryon Size Packing Cubes: Slim Size Cubes | Medium Size Cubes
How to Organize Items in Your Luggage
Packing cubes can help organize items within your regular luggage and even in your duffle. We designed our own brand of slim packing cubes, with a unique color and numbering system, so it’s easy to remember where you’ve packed everything which is illustrated in the video below.
Learn our hacks with packing cubes in the video above!
We also put together a five-part YouTube series showing the different methods to use packing cubes for travel. If you use this specific packing strategy, packing cubes can also compress your belongings. This is the secret to traveling carry-on only!
What do you think is the best duffel bag for travel? Share and comment below!
For more travel luggage ideas, please read:
- Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Luggage for Travel
- Best Lightweight Luggage Under 5lb: Avoid Overweight Baggage Fees
- Suitcase Recommendations: Travel Experts Reveal Top Luggage Brands
- Best Travel Bags with Trolley Sleeve
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My husband is leaving for a 2 week trip, and I’m not sure what he’ll bring back in terms of souvenirs for the whole family, so I decided to pack him a foldable duffel bag, in case his luggage weigh is over the limit.
I’ve followed your recommendations for years and find them very helpful!!
it’s always been tricky trying to plan space for souvenirs, but i had never considered a duffel bag before. this makes a lot of sense if you’re flying carry-on out there but checking a bag on the way back.
I can totally vouch for the Eddie Bauer packable duffle! I brought it with me on two trips this year, Cambodia/Vietnam and Japan! Both times it came in really handy, I stuffed all of my clothes in the duffle and checked it in on the way home so I could put my souvenirs in my roller luggage. The duffle itself is really sturdy, it withstood being checked in and tossed around, and it still is in perfect condition! I learned this tip from TFG, thank you!
I love taking my duffel bag on vacation in case I pick up any “extra” items along the way. Great info here.
My favorites are my Patagonia Blackhole duffels. I have multiple sizes. They’re fantastic as you can carry them multiple ways and they’re practically indestructible.
This article came at the perfect time. My 15-year-old is traveling without of us for the first time. We never carry a duffle, but the teen has his own opinions. However, he did get our need to travel stylishly and doesn’t want to get one that doesn’t look good. LOL. I’ll take the half-win. And perhaps he’s right – maybe we’ve been missing it all along!
This was great info!!! I got the Eddie Bauer smaller version and it has been great!
I’ve been really happy with my Lo & Sons Catalina duffle bag and have been using it for many years. I use it for weekend trips or as airplane carry on. I like that there’s a separate bottom compartment where you can keep your shoes. When I bring a rolling bag or backpack as my primary luggage, I like to bring one of those collapsible duffles for any souvenirs I might by on my trip!
We are planning to pack an extra duffel inside a suitcase for the gifts we are planning to buy.
I have been searching for a packable duffel. One of these will be perfect! Thank you for doing the research!
On my first trip right now with cubes. I will never again travel without them! Why did I wait so long. Love how they keep things organized.
I’ve traveled for decades. On a 2 month trip overseas right now and it’s my first time with the cubes. I will never travel again without them! How did I ever do without them?!?
I love this idea for a tiny duffle for travel! Whether I’m on a group tour and need a little extra room or on my flight home need a carry on for goodies- this is exactly what I was looking for!
I just discovered this article. Great recommendations! I love everything on your site!
I love the Arxus foldable duffle! The shoulder strap is easy to take on and off, and the extra pockets both inside and out help with organization. Plus it folds up easily into itself, and there’s a little loop where you can attach it to the outside of a backpack if needed.
I love the Wandf duffle and have used it as a personal item, as a bus bag on tours and as a dirty clothes checked luggage. Thanks for introducing me to this brand!
I have found the best packing ideas and inspiration on your site! Thank you!
I loved the compression packing cubes on my recent trip. Not only did they allow me to pack a few more items, they kept me very organized! Win-win!
A trick I used was bringing along a vacuum seal bag for my dirty clothes. I didn’t care if they were wrinkled; squishing everything down so small left me plenty of room!
I can’t wait for my next trip!
I like to bring a duffle for overflow, but not my initial bag. They hurt my back to carry. When I flew back from Italy they put it in a plastic bag to help protect the contents…
I am the same. I always bring one, it’s the Eddie Bauer foldable backpack 🎒 for overflow on the return home.
I bought the Narway travel duffle and a big REI rolling duffle for my Africa safari trip. I’m leaving TODAY! So far, so good. I have my most important items in the foldable duffle in case my main bag doesn’t arrive when I do. Then I will combine them. I think this is going to work. I’ve gotten lots of good ideas from you. Thanks!
Love the Vera Bradley large duffle. I can fit a ton in it and it is easy to squish in tight places on the plane. Also easily washable. I sometimes turn it longways and use the long handles as a makeshift backpack so it’s much easier to go down the narrow isles of the airplane.
Just returned from Italy and I love my Wanda duffle bag
I finally bought a travel duffle and packing cubes this summer. The packing cubes are a game changer!! Thanks for the tips on how to use them.
I was wondering how I can bring back my purchases from Italy and now I have several choices! Definitely going to pack a duffle in my suitcase and use it as carry on coming back to the States! Thank you!
I love all of the recommendations! This is one of my favorite blogs 🙂
I am ALL about these recommendations. I am about to go on a trip to Italy and one of these will be just the thing I need to bring home goodies!
I have used many suggestions from this website for my European trip in 2019 and this past summer another 3 1/2 weeks. Both trips I went with just a carryon suitcase and duffle/backpack. Packing in the Compas Rose packing cubes has been a life saver. I also really like the Delsey 21 travel suitcase, and my husband loved his Travelpro suitcase that was recommended. This year I also used the Wandf duffel bag which came in so handy once we got there to use for extra things purchased. From comfortable sneakers, stylist clothes and packing list on what I needed to take, many answers I was able fine within this group. Best of all, my husband was impressed with how well I able to pack smartly. Thank you.
I have the Narway and traveled across the country twice. Using packing cubes makes the packing process very simple.
I appreciate many of your articles
I love this site! Planning a trip to Paris and Italy in December. Struggling to determine what bags to bring/pack in. Thanks for the great info!!!!
I use the Eddie Bauer foldable duffle. Its the right price, durable, and fits easily in a suitcase to bring out for those shopping treasures on the way home.
I love the useable suggestions – am excited for my trip next year!
I wound up getting my kids an under armour duffel for our summer and it was great. Big shoe compartment and huge opening on top.
All of your articles are so helpful!
It is SO helpful to learn about the various duffle and travel bag ideas! This saves an incredible amount of time to learn from those who are travel experts. Thank you for providing so many tips and I am eager to explore more of the blogs on your website!
I have learned and continue to learn so much from your your blog and all the other women who take the time to give their feedback! Thank you for such a variety of suggestions! Now to try and decide which one!!
cute items to use
So very helpful!
Some great ideas . Always liking for a durable roomy duffel bag
Nice article. Thanks!
I’m I was looking for a durable roomy duffel to take on a trip.
Also in that French handbag in your giveaway – I take it to the shoemaker and have a pocket put in the outside of the front of the bag for more storage space A little items like keys and lipstick etc.o
I have been fortunate these past years and have been able to travel. I have used information that you have provided on your blog site which has been helpful.
I wanted to let you know how much I enjoy your blog and find it very helpful when I am planning a trip.
Great selection! I’ve been looking for a duffel bag for some time now. Thanks for giving me a place to start.
I bring a foldable duffel in my trips so that on the way back I can carry it with all the souvenirs in there.
I’m in the market for a new duffle to replace one that is annoying to travel with. Thanks for this roundup!
Your blogs are so helpful. I’m ready to start packing. Trouble is, I want to buy everything you show.
I love seeing all the options
Love all of these – may have to ditch my backpack for a duffle!
On a long trip I always take the Gonex Packable Duffle. I have used it to bring home any purchases made along the way. I have carried it on and have also checked it. It has held up well. I also used it on safari in Africa when I was limited on weight on the bush planes. I stored my heavier bag while on safari.
Thanks! Great info!
Great suggestions on the duffle bags! Now I need to narrow down which one I want for my next trips!
For our recent safari, we had to use a soft-sided duffle bag with no wheels. The 40L Wandf Duffle Bag Carry On was the winner for me! I was able to fit everything I needed for the safari and carry it on due to flying through Heathrow. On the way home, I checked it and it came through two flights like a champ! My son borrowed it for our Arizona roadtrip and it squished in to our trunk just fine!