mens travel bag briefcase

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The 25 Best Travel Bags for Every Kind of Trip

It's all about the right luggage.

We can bet that there’s one thing in your closet that you haven’t replaced in a long time. It’s probably worn, torn at the seams, and maybe even sporting some duct-tape patches. Yup, you guessed it. It’s your travel bag, and it’s time for a new one. So say goodbye to your withering duffel or dented carry-on (don’t worry, it’s them, not you ); and start rocking your baggage in style.

Whether it’s a two-day business trip to Boston or a boys’ weekend in Miami, there are a lot of different ways your bag can support you. Along with handy features, looks play a part, too; you should be proud of the bag you are toting along. Get yourself that snazzy weekender with hidden pockets and a built-in cooling compartment. Treat yourself to that sleek Rimowa roller you’ve been eyeing since last year. Splurge on that monogrammed duffel to replace the one your investment bank gave you when you signed on. Don’t go on another trip without your new bag, and take some action now.

Best Travel Duffle Bag

Herschel supply co. novel duffel.

Most Versatile Travel Bag

Longchamp le pliage energy.

Best Hard Shell Carry-On Travel Bag

Rimowa cabin s carry-on suitcase.

Our favorite luggage brands make it easy to elevate your travel style . If you need help narrowing down your choices, we have our 25 favorites that our editors have tested and reviewed. Out with the old, in with a new travel bag.

When it comes to quick trips that last a day or two, a duffel is what you need. And Herschel’s Novel bag is, in so many words, the best bang for your buck. Not only is it incredibly durable and spacious enough for several fits (there’s also a separate compartment for your shoes), but it’s also less than $100. That’s what we call a win-win.

Drawing its inspiration from origami, Longchamp’s convertible travel bag is one of the most versatile out there. Wear it as a backpack or carry it around as a weekender, this bag is going to get you from point A to point B with ease. It’s sporty and practical and effortlessly in fashion.

From Karl Lagerfeld to David Fincher to Martha Stewart, all the high rollers can be seen toting this suitcase. It’s got distinctive grooves and an ergonomic design, and it just screams class. Plus, the TSA-approved locks are keeping your belongings extra secure.

It’s also Esquire approved and worthy of an investment.

Away The Everywhere Zip Backpack

For train travel, bus voyages ( ooof, we feel your pain ), or even a trip involving a connecting flight, there’s nothing like a good backpack to keep you hands-free and moving at a quick pace. Made of water-resistant nylon, Away’s backpack is a durable choice with padded shoulder straps and a laptop pocket.

Métier Vagabond Duffel

Surprisingly lightweight, Métier’s duffel is a luxe option for frequent travelers. It’s thoughtfully designed with specific places for toiletries, sunglasses, a laptop, and the rest of your valuables. A secret card slot in the exterior pocket makes for easier travel at the airport.

Samsonite Pro Travel Softside Expandable Carry-On Luggage

In the luggage realm, there are very few that hold a candle to Samsonite. For more than a century (yes, that long), the brand has been churning out travel accessories, always offering quality styles for the day. It doesn’t get bogged down by its history. This soft-shell spinner, for example, features wireless charging pockets and a compartment for toiletries, and it’s made of 100 percent ballistic nylon. It’s also less than $250, which makes is a virtual steal.

TUMI Garment Bag Tri-Fold Carry-On

Business executives know the importance of a garment bag. When you just hopped off the plane and are running late to that meeting, never stress trying to find a steamer again. TUMI is saving you from wrinkle embarrassment, keeping you put together everywhere and anytime.

Halfday The Garment Duffel

We love our garment bags in duffel form. They are practical for traveling with suits or other formal clothes, but you can also use them for quick casual trips. Need more convincing? Check out our endorsement of this one.

Dagne Dover Landon Carryall Bag

In a flexible neoprene, Dagne Dover's carryall is one of the lightest duffels out there. It's got a laptop sleeve, and it also comes with a shoe bag and a dust bag. It also makes for a great gym bag, if you want something that's multipurpose.

Lucchese Cosimo Garment Duffel

We love this duffel so much, it was even one of the travel products our editors can't live without . Converting from a garment sleeve to a duffel bag, its versatility meets a luxurious style for a bag you will have for decades.

July Carry All Weekender Plus

Much like it's name denotes, this truly is a carry-all at its 50L capacity. A large padded pocket fits your laptop, and hidden pockets with magnetic closures keep your smaller belongings tucked away safely. If you are going somewhere for the long-haul, it also easily attaches onto your luggage.

Paravel Aviator Grand Suitcase

Paravel is new-ish to the luggage game, but in just a short time it is succeeding in the competitive market by focusing entirely on sustainability. The brand's collection is not only beautifully designed, but they are also made of recycled plastic water bottles. It also plants trees through Eden Reforestation Projects to offset the carbon emissions it produces via shipping.

Meisterstück Meisterstück Document Case

From the finest writing instruments to regal timepieces, Montblanc offers the kind of items beloved by jet-setters, C-suite executives, and anyone else of that sort. Naturally, this means that its briefcase is one of the best around, and will surely induce envy from the rest of the folks in first class.

Zero Halliburton Large Travel Case

When it comes to luxury, you can't ignore Zero Halliburton. This label is, after all, the maker of the iconic damage-resistant aluminum briefcases, so rest assured that its large spinner will stay looking good while its be tossed and turned from the check-in booth to baggage claim.

Victorinox Spectra 3.0 Frequent Flyer Carry-On

This Swiss brand makes luggage that lasts. Constructed in a high performance recycled polycarbonate, this suitcase is durable and eco-conscious. It expands by 20 percent and has multiple compartments for smart storage. We also love this piece from Victorinox because you can personalize it for no added cost.

Coofay Travel Backpack

Now you can pack for a weekend trip in a backpack. There's a laptop compartment, separate shoe storage, and a USB charging port. Travel compactly and with rest assured that everything you need it right on your back.

Lululemon Command the Day Duffel Bag

Aptly named, this bag is going to be your 24/7 savior. A water-repellent fabric protects against spills and weather. You can stay organized with the allocated pockets for shoes, laptop, and gear.

Yeti Crossroads Duffel Bag

You know Yeti for its coolers and bottles, but you're about to love it for its luggage. A water and abrasion-resistant exterior coupled with reinforced stitching makes this one of the most durable duffels on the market.

Mark & Graham 2-in-1 Garment Bag

This bag is literally a transformer. Going from garment bag to duffel, it helps to protect your clothing with its folding design. The smart silhouette even leaves room for two pairs of shoes to store at the side.

Mack Weldon Atlas Duffle

This reinforced canvas duffle will pass any test you put it through—from the gym to the plane. It has multiple pockets, one that's designated for shoes and the other for drinks and snacks ( remember to throw those out before you get to TSA ), and a slip-resistant bottom.

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The 15 Best Travel Briefcases for Men & Women [2023]

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

823 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 63 U.S. States Visited: 9

Keri Stooksbury

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Table of Contents

Things to consider with briefcases, the 8 best briefcases for men, the 7 best briefcases for women, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our  Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

A briefcase offers a practical and stylish way to carry your laptop, files, notebooks, and other essentials with you on your daily commute. Some are spacious enough to carry extra items you might need for a night or 2 away, while others are lightweight and versatile enough to be used on a daily basis.

Available in a wide range of styles, colors, and designs, finding the right briefcase to suit your needs doesn’t have to feel like a chore.

Before you buy your next briefcase, consider the following:

Size and Capacity

If you are planning on using your briefcase for school, college, or work, you will need to be able to fit your laptop , work files, textbooks, and other must-have work essentials in with ease.

Depending on the size of your laptop, the padded compartment will need to be able to accommodate it , so be sure to carefully read the description before you buy. You should also be sure that it can fit full-size folders or documents if you intend to use it while working.

Hot Tip: Some briefcases offer the ability to expand a few extra inches, giving you extra interior space to store your files or fit a change of clothing in.

If your briefcase is simply for carrying your laptop to work and back, it just needs to offer excellent protection and space for a few extra essentials.

However, if you are headed away on a business trip or need to carry your gym gear, lunch bag, and other day-to-day items, look for a briefcase that offers expandable compartments or extra space to ensure that you don’t need to carry extra bags with you.

Briefcases often feature a structured design, which can make them heavier than a comparable tote or duffel bag. While this won’t be so noticeable while the bag is empty, briefcases can feel quite heavy when fully loaded.

Material and Durability

Briefcases are usually made from heavy-duty material as they are designed to offer increased protection. Polyester, canvas, leather, and vegan leather (PU) are all popular choices, and all have their own distinct advantages.

Suppose you are doing a lot of traveling with your briefcase. In that case, you may want to look for materials that offer some resistance to water and always check that the hardware and zippers are high-quality to ensure that they stay stronger for longer.

While your working life may be stressful, there is no reason that your briefcase should put any additional stress on your body. On the contrary, ergonomic shoulder straps can help distribute your belongings’ weight , and wheeled briefcases can make light work of longer journeys.

Also, consider how you access your belongings. For example, front flap pockets make it easy to grab your passport, cell phone, and other essentials in a hurry, and wide-mouth zippers ensure that you can easily slip your laptop and files in without a fight.

Wheels vs. No Wheels

Some briefcases come with wheels and a telescoping handle, making it easy to pull your belongings along beside you.

These types of suitcases are great if you need to carry lots of files and documents with you and can also be used as a carry-on when flying.

Bottom Line: Wheeled briefcases can be super useful and will make it much more comfortable to carry lots of gear, but they are generally larger and heavier than a regular briefcase, so only buy one if you need the extra capacity.

1. Water-resistant Briefcase for Your Daily Commute

Ytonet 17 inch laptop bag.

This smart-looking laptop briefcase is made from high-quality, water-resistant polyester and is perfect for business trips.

Offering plenty of multi-functional compartments, it comes with 2 front zipper pockets, a main compartment that can comfortably house most 15.6-inch laptops, a file compartment, and a back zipper pocket to keep your valuables safe.

Offering a super-useful expansion zipper, this roomy laptop briefcase can also be used to store clothes and other essentials for overnight stays. With a padded shoulder strap, grab handles, and a back panel that can be looped over the handle of your suitcase, this is the perfect choice for frequent flyers.

What We Like

• This briefcase looks much more expensive than it is

What We Don’t Like

• 17-inch devices can be a squeeze if they are thick

2. Nylon Briefcase From a Reputable Luggage Brand

Samsonite classic multi gusset toploader briefcase.

This smart-looking briefcase from Samsonite is packed full of useful compartments, and the sleek good looks make it a practical choice for stylish commuters.

Made from durable ballistic nylon, it comes with a padded laptop compartment that is suitable for devices measuring up to 15.6 inches , and the gusset feature opens wide to hold your files and folders.

With additional compartments for your laptop peripherals and zippered mesh pockets to hold your pens and other accessories, it offers all the space you need to work on the move.

With a padded shoulder strap, wrapped grab handle, and a trolley sleeve, it is easy to carry, and the front zipper pocket offers easy access to your passport and other essentials in transit.

• Designed to fit everything you need
• The shoulder strap is surprisingly narrow

3. Big Size Briefcase With Carrying Options

Coolbell convertible backpack messenger bag.

This versatile travel bag is plenty big enough to hold your 17.3-inch laptop, and the spacious design still offers room for extra clothing.

Offering 3 different ways to carry your gear, the straps can be used as a backpack, a messenger bag, or a shoulder bag , and with 4 outside pockets, you can easily organize your essentials.

Made from high-quality materials, it comes with a padded laptop compartment and extra pockets for your files and peripherals, and the ergonomic design ensures that it remains lightweight and easy to carry, even when full.

• This is a versatile briefcase with lots of pockets
• It doesn’t feel particularly durable

4. Expandable Briefcase for Large Laptops

Kroser premium laptop bag.

Made from environmentally-friendly canvas poly fabric, this is a durable and water-repellent laptop bag that looks smart and performs brilliantly.

With a roomy laptop compartment that can house up to a 17.3 laptop , you can take your work with you, and the expandable capacity offers extra space for files, folders, or even a change of clothes.

The easy-to-reach zippered front pocket lets you access your most important documents easily, and the adjustable carry handle, sturdy PU handles, and luggage strap on the back ensure a comfortable carry, even when full.

• This bag fits everything you need and even more.
• It could do with more padding

5. Briefcase on Wheels for Frequent Flyers

Alpine swiss rolling 17″ laptop briefcase.

This awesome rolling briefcase measures 19 x 14 x 9 inches, making it just right to use as a TSA-approved carry-on , and will the ability to hold a 17-inch laptop, it is a great choice for regular business users.

Organized and secured, the main section comes with various compartments for all of your essentials , and the zipper closure has secure dual combination locks that can be set individually to keep your belongings well-protected.

With side pockets that are spacious enough for legal files and the ability to expand up to 2 inches, you will have all the space you need for your important work documents. This briefcase also features a telescopic handle, 4 in-line skate wheels, and a detachable carry handle to make light work of longer commutes.

• This is a really durable briefcase
• The wheels seem a little small for the size of the case

6. The Best-designed Briefcase for Stylish Commuters

Kenneth cole reaction keystone 17″ laptop business portfolio.

Offering designer good looks and a practical interior, this awesome briefcase from Kenneth Cole is made from durable 1680D ballistic polyester and has a fully-lined interior.

The front compartments offer easy access to your passport, cell phone, and other essentials, and on the inside, the main compartment is designed with a checkpoint-friendly/EZ-scan feature that lets you keep it safely tucked away while going through airport security .

The dual top handles and padded shoulder strap ensure that it is always easy to carry, and the rear exterior trolley strap allows you to slip the briefcase over the handle of your spinner suitcase to create the perfect travel system for business trips and longer stays away.

• Genuinely has enough room for your 17.3-inch laptop plus files and accessories
• The shoulder strap feels surprisingly flimsy

7. Upscale Leather Briefcase for the Discerning Traveler

Samsonite leather expandable briefcase.

This finely-crafted briefcase is made from smooth and supple genuine leather, and the spacious design is an awesome choice for everyday use.

With a padded laptop compartment that can comfortably house up to a 15.6-inch laptop computer, it also offers a variety of compartments and pockets for keeping your files and accessories well-organized.

The comfortable carry handles are sturdy enough to support the weight of the bag , even when full, and with an expandable compartment, you can even squeeze in a few extras for overnight stays.

This bag also features a SmartPocket design that can be slipped over the handle of your spinner suitcase for more convenient transportation.

• It really has been built to last
• The shiny surface makes it look more like faux leather

8. Carry-on Briefcase Bag With a Built-in USB

Matein rolling laptop bag.

This awesome rolling briefcase comes with a USB interface and built-in cable that allows you to charge your devices (using your own choice of power bank ).

With a spacious front zippered pocket, you can enjoy easy access to your most used documents and essentials while you travel, and the spacious main compartment is large enough to carry your clothes, shoes, and other much-needed items.

With a padded compartment that will keep your 15.6-inch laptop well-protected and a zippered accordion-style file holder, this case offers all the space you need for business trips and overnight stays.

With 4 in-line skate wheels and a retractable handle , this bag is easy to pull along behind you, and the compact 17.7 x 9.5 x 13.7-inch dimensions make it carry-on-compatible for most airlines.

• Practical and super spacious
• The laptop compartment is towards the front of the bag, meaning it can tip over

1. The Best Eco-leather Ladies Briefcase

Easegave laptop bag for women.

Available in a choice of 10 stunning colors, this beautiful Suffiano eco-leather briefcase offers plenty of space for all of your daily business essentials.

With a dedicated and well-padded compartment to hold your 15.6-inch laptop, it also features further structured interior compartments, as well as 2 slip pockets and a zip-fastening pocket for smaller items.

Understated and incredibly chic, this laptop briefcase also comes with a turn-lock flap closure to keep your belongings secure , and with a lined interior and adjustable strap, it offers a stylish way to carry your work around with you.

• This briefcase bag looks and feels gorgeous
• The strap isn’t particularly strong

2. Great-looking Briefcase for Fashion-conscious Travelers

Ecosusi women’s briefcase.

Made from smooth and luxurious vegan leather, this gorgeous women’s briefcase looks pretty as a picture. With elegant, vintage styling, it comes in a selection of colorways, and the spacious interior offers all the space you need for your day-to-day essentials.

On the inside, it has room to carry a laptop measuring up to 15.6 inches, and the additional zipper pockets are perfect for keeping your wallet, cell phone, and other items safe on the move.

The adjustable strap makes it easy to sling the briefcase over your shoulder , and the unusual cut-out design with an oversize bow and magnetic closure makes this an excellent choice for fashionable commuters and students.

• Extremely high quality for the price
• It’s not big enough for large folders

3. Functional Women’s Briefcase on Wheels

Solo new york bryant rolling bag with wheels.

Versatile enough to be used for work, school, or even nights away, this rolling briefcase bag is spacious enough to carry plenty of your business essentials.

Made from high-quality materials, it comes with a fully-padded 17.3-inch laptop compartment and features a zip-down organizer section and file dividers to ensure that you stay well-organized.

With a push-button telescoping handle and 4 smooth-rolling wheels, you can pull your belongings along behind you, making light work of long journeys and business trips away.

• Plenty of storage space and padded protection
• A 17-inch laptop is a bit of a squeeze

4. Super Water-resistant Ladies Briefcase

Bagsmart 17.3 inch laptop bag.

Offering excellent value for money, this versatile and practical women’s briefcase bag comes in a selection of fashionable colors.

Made from durable and water-resistant polyester fabric, it comes complete with metal hooks and zippers, and the well-thought-out design offers plenty of space for your laptop, files, pens, and other essentials.

The padded laptop compartment can comfortably house devices measuring up to 17 inches, and the expansion zipper offers extra inches for clothing, files, textbooks, and so much more.

With an ergonomic shoulder strap, this bag is comfortable to carry, even when full , and the back slip pocket slides over the handle of your spinner suitcase for increased convenience on longer journeys.

• It will let your larger laptop slip in and out easy
• It can feel quite heavy when fully loaded

5. Practical PU Leather Ladies Briefcase

Lovevook laptop bag for women.

Fashionable and full of character, this gorgeous satchel-style bag comes with a padded computer compartment that fits devices measuring up to 15.6 inches.

With lots of lovely interior pockets, this is a practical bag for everyday use , and the 2 large pockets on the front make for easy access to your most essential items.

Made from high-quality PU leather, it has a distinctive design and gorgeous hardware, and the zippered back pocket offers a safe place to quickly access your valuables.

With a sturdy carry handle and an adjustable shoulder strap, this briefcase provides a stylish and practical way to haul your work, school, or college essentials with you, everywhere you go.

• It will easily fit your laptop and peripherals
• More for fashion than it is for durability

6. The Best Vintage Ladies Briefcase

Cluci women oil wax leather briefcase.

Available in a selection of stylish colorways, this upscale briefcase is made from soft, 2-toned cowhide leather . It has a super-stylish look with a durable fabric lining and high-quality hardware.

The large capacity interior has a padded laptop compartment for 15.6-inch devices, and the further inner pockets, card and pen slots, front magnetic pocket, and hidden back pocket offer plenty of space for all of your school or workplace essentials.

With an external U-shaped zipper, you can easily access your items, and the adjustable handle and attach-a-bag strap make it easy to carry or attach to your suitcase for increased convenience.

• It feels soft and supple
• The design makes it feel quite heavy

7. Roller Briefcase for Ladies on the Move

Kensington contour balance notebook.

This incredible carry-on bag comes with super smooth, inline skate wheels that make it easy to maneuver.

With the look and feel of a regular tote bag, it hides a multitude of clever design features , and the laptop compartment with built-in drop protection ensures that your 15.4-inch laptop will remain well-protected in transit.

The ergonomic design hugs the body and shifts the center of gravity for a more comfortable carry, and being 25% lighter than traditional rollers, you won’t need to worry about lifting it into the overhead compartment. With an organizer front pocket and additional zipper pockets, it offers all the storage space you need for business trips and busy days.

• The super-smooth wheels
• The grab handles can get in the way of accessing the compartments

From colorful cases to luxury wheeled options, there are a ton of great briefcases to suit every kind of traveler. With padded laptop compartments, organizer pockets, expandable zippers, and lots of useful extra storage, a modern-day briefcase offers so much more than just a portable file holder.

With options to suit school kids, college students, and business users alike, and available in a wealth of styles for every budget, a laptop briefcase is an investment in your day-to-day success.

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The 19 Best Travel Bags for Men

Megan Johnson

Megan is a Senior Editor, SEO for SmarterTravel Media.

Megan started with SmarterTravel Media’s Airfarewatchdog way back in 2008, moved over to FamilyVacationCritic, and finally SmarterTravel in 2021. Originally from Massachusetts, she has lived in Nova Scotia, London, and New York City. She has spent nearly every summer (or at least part of it) on Prince Edward Island. She has started to go out of her comfort zone while traveling- most recently exploring caves and boogie boarding on a FlowRider.

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Gone are the days of a worn-down, sad-looking duffle bag. Men’s travel bags have come a long way, and we’ve rounded up the best best ones out there. From duffels, backpacks and suitcases, here are the best travel bags for men. 

Carhartt Legacy 40L Utility Duffel

The Carhartt Legacy is a no-nonsense utility bag for the rugged traveler. With a spacious main compartment, two zippered end compartments, two front flap pockets, a rear zipper pocket, and 10 interior mesh pockets, your items will be easily organized and accessible for your next vacation. 

Yeti Panga Waterproof Duffel

The Yeti Panga Waterproof Duffel doubles as a backpack, is waterproof, and its ThickSkin™ Shell is puncture-resistant, making this one of the most durable travel bags out there. Take it on a camping trip, or on any trip you know you will be exposed to the elements. For those who prefer backpacks, try the YETI Panga 28L Backpack .

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Gregory Mountain Products Alpaca 120 Duffel Bag

Another waterproof bag, the Gregory Mountain Products Alpaca 120 Duffel Bag weighs in at only 4 pounds, making it an adventure bag without extra bulk. We love the 120 Duffel for checked luggage, or for a road trip. With 120 gallons of space, an interior mesh pocket, lockable zippers, and shoulder straps to convert it into a backpack, it has all the conveniences you need for a longer trip away. 

July Carry All Weekender Plus

Carry your clothes, shoes and laptop in the Weekender Plus . The perfect size for a weekend trip, this bag has a padded interior pocket that fits laptops up to 16-inches. With two internal zipped compartments, and an hidden external pocket,  you have plenty of room for everything you need for a short trip. 

Journal Edition Multimedia Backpack

Anyone who loves taking pictures, or has every single kind of techie-gadget out there will love this backpack . It has a laptop sleeve, and compartments and pockets for organizing your phones, tablets, cameras, chargers, and any other techie items you want to bring along with you. 

The Best Hardside Luggage for Every Traveler

Halfday The Garment Duffel

While more and more men are getting away from the days of wearing a suit every day, occasions still arise when you have to wear one, and chances are high that you will be traveling to the event. The Halfday Garment Duffel melds men’s two favorite travel bags: a duffel and a garment bag. The hanging compartment folds right up and creates a duffel compartment to pack the rest of your belongings in, and it is far less bulky than a traditional garment bag.  

L.L.Bean Continental Luggage, Carry-On Travel Pack

For those looking for a carry-on that isn’t a suitcase, this travel pack is for you. Fitting most airlines’ carry-on requirements, its ergonomically-designed straps make for easy carrying around the airport and beyond, and its countless pockets and compartments make for easy organization. 

Eagle Creek Rolling No Matter What Duffel Bag 

What is better than a standard duffel? A duffel that rolls for easy maneuvering around the airport. The Eagle Creek Rolling No Matter What Duffel is extra durable, has plenty of room for all of your travel needs, and even includes an extra storage pouch for shoes or laundry that doubles as a storage bag for the duffel in between your travels. 

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Monos Metro Weekender

Sophistication meets practicality with this weekender bag from Monos. It features a laptop compartment, two side pockets, a drawstring bag for laundry or shoes, and a super roomy interior. 

Tumi Fleet Day Duffel

Whether its for a trip to the gym, commuting, or for a weekend away, the Tumi Fleet Day Duffel will provide.  The interior is equipped with a padded laptop compartment, iPad pocket, two card pockets, and the TUMI Tracer® which allows you to trace your bag wherever you leave it. 

Aer Travel Pack 3

The Aer Travel Pack 3 will hold everything you need for a business trip: a padded, suspended laptop pocket, pockets for a tracker, your phone, and your passport, loads of pockets for interior organization, and a large interior space for all of your other travel needs. 

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Royce New York Weekend Leather Duffel Bag

A classic leather duffel bag is a must on a list of best travel bags for men. The  Royce New York Weekend Leather Duffel is your basic functional duffel perfect for any trip. It is extra roomy, with one large compartment to pack all of the items you need for a weekend away. The metal feet add a layer of protection to the bottom of the bag. 

Lo & Sons Catalina Deluxe

The days of searching for a plastic bag to throw your shoes in before putting them in your bag to separate them from your clothes thanks to the Lo & Sons Caralina Deluxe bag. The lower compartment of this bag is large enough to hold more than one pair of shoes, and the main section of the bag has plenty of pockets for ultimate organization. 

Herschel Novel Duffel Bag

Most people don’t know what to do with all of the bags they own, so any bag that has multiple uses is always welcomed. The Herschel Novel Duffel not only will become your go-to travel bag, but you will likely find yourself using it for your daily trip to the gym as well. It’s separate shoe compartment allows you to store your (probably) smelly gym shoes away from the rest of your clothes, and comes in handy when traveling as well.  

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Horizn Studios H Series

Horizn Studios H Series offers a carry-on, medium checked and large checked suitcase. Whether you create a set or just buy one, you won’t be disappointed with your purchase. Choose from the essential or smart model, which features a built in charger. All suitcases have a compression pad and laundry bag. 

Tom Ford Buckley Holdall Leather Bag

If you’re ready for a splurge, the Tom Ford Buckley Holdall Leather Bag is for you. Sleek and stylish, this basic duffel is a statement piece. Made of calf leather, it has an interior pocket, two-way zip fastening, and is made in Italy.

Travelers Club Xpedition

For an affordable basic, durable, reliable travel bag, the Travelers Club Xpedition features six pockets, a retractable telescoping handle, and top and rear carry handles. This checked bag is available in eight colors. 

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Briggs & Riley ZDX Upright Rolling Duffel Bag

The Briggs & Riley ZDX Upright Rolling Duffel brings all of the style of a duffel together with the convenience of a rolling suitcase. It folds down for easy storage, has ample outer and inner pockets, and a retractable handle for easy rolling. Plus, it comes with a lifetime performance guarantee that even covers airline damage.

Amazon Basics 21-Inch Hardside Spinner

This hardside carry-on from Amazon Basics is durable, fits most overhead bins, and is expandable for when you need extra space. The fully lined interior has a divider and three zippered pockets to store your smaller items.

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The Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks

By Kit Dillon

Kit Dillon is a writer focused on bags and travel gear. He has worked for Wirecutter for a decade and lost count of the number of bags he has tested.

When you open up your favorite carry-on travel backpack, it should feel like you’re opening the door to a well-organized closet or sitting down at a clean desk, with everything in the right place and easy to reach.

This is your moment to center yourself, no matter how chaotic the journey.

What we considered

A 45-liter bag maximizes overhead space but can get heavy when fully packed; 35-liter bags tend to be more manageable.

A bag with a clamshell design opens like a book and is the easiest to pack, but a bag that opens traditionally tends to have more structure.

Ideally, a travel backpack has handles on all sides—especially the bottom—so you can pull it out of overhead bins or from under seats.

Some internal pockets are useful, but major organizing is better managed with packing cubes.

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack and the larger Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L offer the best combination of features, quality, and durability. Both bags are exemplary carry-on travel backpacks that are designed for comfort, durability, and organization. Though these backpacks are great as companion bags for any trip, they’re designed to ultimately replace all of your other luggage and become your exclusive bag as you travel.

This style of packing is not for everyone, but once some people try it, they’re forever hooked. Finding the right bag is a personal choice, though, and no single bag will appeal to everyone. That’s why we also have picks that are great for people who travel for work , others that are designed to be carried over long distances , and a bag that’s basically luggage on your back .

The research

Why you should trust us, who this is for, best small carry-on bag for most situations: cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack, best large bag for most situations: peak design travel backpack 45l, best mobile office: patagonia black hole mlc 45l, best bag for long journeys on foot: osprey farpoint 40 and fairview 40, best bag if you need a large suitcase on your back: tortuga travel backpack pro 40l, other good carry-on travel backpacks, how we picked and tested, the competition.

I’ve been covering aspects of luggage and travel bag design for Wirecutter for nearly a decade, and I have personally researched, tested, and compared hundreds of bags in that time. I personally try to do most of my travel with a single backpack, whenever possible. I spent nine months roaming around Hawaii with not much more than that, and I spent another six months nomadically couch-surfing in New York City.

I reached out to writers who specialize in traveling the world carrying everything they need in a single bag: Eytan Levy, the owner and operator of the Snarky Nomad travel website; James Feess, founder of The Savvy Backpacker ; and Sharon Gourlay, of the Where’s Sharon? travel website. I also spoke with moderators of Reddit’s r/onebag and r/heronebag forums, as well as with Chase Reeves, bag fanatic, reviewer, and owner of Matterful .

We researched and tested bags designed for those who want to travel light and stay flexible while flying, without the burden of checking luggage. For some people, the challenge of cutting down a packing list is intimidating. But if you can get past that initial hurdle, traveling with a single bag is a revelation. With fewer items, you have more time to concentrate on and appreciate the journey.

• When you’re not loaded down by heavy luggage, it’s easy to remain more mobile. And it’s easier to adjust your plans mid-trip. If you’re willing to do laundry on the road, then one bag is all you need to travel indefinitely. At its heart, one-bag travel allows you to discover more—not just about the places you’re going but also about yourself and what you really need day to day.
• Size and weight still matter. If you desire more creature comforts or more gear, or if you plan to be away for a long time across multiple climates, you’ll want a bigger travel backpack . These larger bags tend not to be carry-on-friendly, however, especially in Europe, so be prepared to check them.
• No single backpack is perfect for everyone. Before you make any purchase, consider some basic points. How much can you carry? And where do you usually visit: the city or outback? Travel gear should feel like a welcome companion—there to support you when you need it but unobtrusive when you don’t.

45-liter bag vs. 35-liter bag

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

A versatile small pack for a week or a weekend.

This durable bag’s clamshell design makes it easy to organize your stuff. And due to its strap design, this bag can be worn on your back or carried in your hand while you’re on the move.

Buying Options

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The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack is an easy-to-organize, comfortable-to-carry bag for getaways lasting just a few days or a whole week.

It’s one bag that can do it all. This is a great all-around bag for any traveler who’s dedicated to packing light, or for a smaller person who wants less to carry. There are handles on all four sides of this bag, so it’s easy to grab no matter where you’ve stowed it. It’s also protected by a full lifetime warranty, and it has the build quality to back that up. After more than four years of testing, this single backpack (plus a personal item ) has replaced nearly every travel bag or piece of luggage I use.

It comes in various sizes, but we think the middle-of-the-road version is the best. Cotopaxi also makes the Allpa in 28-liter and 42-liter sizes. But for us, the 35-liter bag is the best option. At 42 liters, this bag becomes heavy for most people to carry when it is fully packed, and we’d prefer that it had a more-robust hip belt. At 28 liters, the bag becomes a touch small for most people, and its internal organization feels fussy for shorter trips, such as an overnight. Cotopaxi also makes a hip pack , which is designed to fit snugly into the Allpa bag’s front top compartment. It’s a neat little addition to the bag, and it is worth getting if you like wearing fanny packs while you travel.

It’s organized, easy to pack, and easy to carry. The Allpa bag has a clamshell design, so it opens like a hard-sided suitcase—a large YKK zipper runs around three sides of the bag, allowing it to fall open into two halves when unzipped. On the right side is a deep compartment, spacious enough for two large packing cubes or half a suitcase’s worth of clothing (which you access through a mesh zippered flap). On the left, there’s space for one more medium-size packing cube behind a zippered flap. Above that there are two smaller pockets with high-visibility backing—useful when you’re looking for hard-to-differentiate personal items.

It’s secure but still accessible. The Allpa pack has two side-access zippers—great for on-the-go access, especially when the bag is hanging from your shoulder. One of these reveals a flat computer pocket with a padded false bottom; so if you drop the bag, it won’t land on the corner of your computer. The other reveals a “secret” pocket with a hidden zipper and access to the main compartment. All of the main compartment zippers are protected by security loops, which you thread the zipper through at the end of its run. This prevents anyone from subtly or quickly grabbing a zipper and opening your bag when you aren’t paying attention.

It’s comfortable to carry. The Allpa bag’s hip belt—which can be removed while the bag is on your back—is substantial enough that it’s comfortable to wear when you need it. With or without the hip belt, the Allpa bag is comfortable to carry over long distances. However, folks who have longer torsos (over 19 inches) may find that the waist belt sits a little high off the hips, unless you fully extend the shoulder straps. Speaking of shoulder straps, unlike the ones on our other picks, the Allpa bag’s straps are contoured to fit people who have large or small chests. It’s not a specifically gendered design, but our female tester noticed the improvement right away.

The Allpa pack is made with 1680-denier ballistic nylon, similar to the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 45 . (Denier is a measure of a fabric’s fiber thickness.) It feels similar to a strong canvas, but it has a more prominent weave. This is the type of bag that’s as easy to toss into an overhead compartment as it is into the back of a rusty pickup truck. And it also includes a rainfly, which is unique in this category.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• Though this pack is well organized for packing, it’s less ideal as a mobile office. The Allpa pack has a minimal amount of administrative organization—places to keep pens and papers, spaces to hold tickets, and so forth. This is where a good personal item comes in handy. However, if you want to travel with just this one bag, there are a few nooks you can hide things in. The front organizer is deep enough that you can also fit several small organizing pouches, if you want, or the aforementioned fanny pack.
• We prefer the model without the TPU front. Cotopaxi does enjoy playing around with fabrics and colors. Sometimes the company has released the Allpa pack without the TPU-lined front panel. The TPU panel improves water resistance, but after many years of traveling with our bag, we’ve found that the TPU layering can begin to flake in spots.

Capacity: 35 liters Weight: 3 pounds 5 ounces Main compartment access: clamshell opening Style: adventurous Colors: assorted

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

An easily customizable large bag for long trips and expensive gear.

This bag was built with photographers in mind. Yet most travelers will appreciate its easy accessibility, clever tuck-away straps, and the elegant way the bag expands and contracts. The accessory cubes cost extra, though.

The Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is a good choice for those carrying more expensive gear—especially camera gear. It’s also great for those who prefer a large, backpack-based packing system.

One bag provides many configurations. Some bags in this category are built to do one thing extremely well—be carried on your back. But the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is built to adapt. It’s the Swiss Army knife of backpacks: adjustable, customizable, and (if you spring for the extra cubes and organizers) an almost perfect system for a photographer or gearhead on the move. Most bags’ expanding mechanisms aren’t worth the extra zipper they’re built on, and they look about as attractive as a boiled ham splitting out of its plastic packaging. That’s not the case with the Peak Design: This bag looks just as good fully packed at 45 liters as it does compressed to a 30-liter daypack.

It’s expandable, with clever folds and zippers. You can access the bag through a back panel (which doubles as a computer and tablet pouch) as well as a front one (if you unzip the pass-through divider). You can also get into the main compartment via two wing-like trapezoidal flaps, which run along each side of the pack. In its natural shape, the Travel Backpack holds 35 liters, but an expansion zipper lets the bag swell to 45 liters. If you want to use the bag as a daypack, you fold in the top corners and snap them down, reducing the bag’s volume to a slim 30 liters. In this configuration, it will still feel larger than a normal daypack, but we think that’s a small compromise for being able to use one backpack as both your travel bag and your daily explorer. The bag itself consists of 400-denier nylon and polyester fabrics. It feels tough but not as tough as some other bags we’ve tested, such as the Cotopaxi Allpa.

It has fold-away straps, for easier storage. The Peak Design lets you tuck its shoulder and hip straps away when you’re not using them. But unlike any other bag we’ve ever tested, this pack has magnetic flaps on the back panel that open and close with an almost magical snap. Once you’ve played with them, you’ll wonder why every backpack doesn’t have something similar. A small, childish part of me still gets excited about tucking away the straps when I put the Peak Design into an overhead bin. Although the straps are thin, they’re still comfortable. The hip belt isn’t quite as plush as the one on the Tortuga pack; still, even when the Peak Design is fully loaded, the belt doesn’t pinch or dig into the body.

It’s great for carrying expensive gear. If you travel with a camera, you don’t have to use Peak Design’s camera cubes , but they do make carrying that gear a whole lot easier. The cubes come in five sizes. And if they’re situated properly in the bag with the provided clips, they line up with the Travel Backpack’s side-access flaps for quick access. Caleigh Waldman (a photographer for this piece and, full disclosure, my spouse) took this bag across the country for a wedding shoot. “I want this backpack,” she said after three weeks of travel. “I want to travel with it everywhere. With my cameras. Without my cameras. It doesn’t matter. I want to travel with it.”

• It’s expensive—especially if you commit to the entire system of packing and camera cubes.
• More complexity means more things that can break. The adjustable design and multiple zippers do add complexity, and complexity adds potential weaknesses. Peak Design covers all of its bags with a lifetime warranty , which should alleviate most people’s concerns. But if you’re particularly hard on your gear and still need to carry as much as possible, you might consider the Tortuga bag instead.

Capacity: 45 liters Weight: 4½ pounds Main compartment access: back-panel loader Style: minimalist and unobtrusive Color: black, sage

Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L

Combines more organization with a simple interior.

This bag’s split interior makes organizing easy. Those who travel for work will appreciate this bag’s dedicated panels for organizing tech, books, papers, and assorted miscellaneous items.

If you travel often for business and prefer a bag that’s much easier to work out of than most of our other picks, you may like the Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L . This bag has a front panel and assorted pockets that make it feel like a small traveling office.

It’s built like luggage but organized like your office. Of all the bags we recommend, the MLC (short for Maximum Legal Carry) comes closest to being a suitcase on your back, due to its large size, simple interior, and minimal external features. The MLC is also one of the simplest bags we tested, divided into two leaves (imagine a book with only one page), with a main compartment for packing and a second compartment for document organization and tech storage. The MLC has a built-in laptop compartment that fits 17-inch laptops and is situated close to your back; this protects the computer and keeps its weight closer to your body.

Despite its size, it’s comfortable enough to carry. Most carry-on backpacks of this size, without frames, become somewhat unwieldy when fully packed. Thankfully, the Black Hole MLC bag, like the Cotopaxi Allpa, is a welcome exception to this rule. The MLC has two shoulder straps, a hip belt, and an optional shoulder strap, for easy carrying. When they're not in use, or when you’re checking your bag, all of the straps can be stowed away easily. When fully loaded, the bag was pleasant to carry—not as comfortable as the Peak Design or the Osprey, but decent enough. I wouldn’t want to carry it all day across a city, but I wouldn’t mind carrying it through an airport to a car and to a hotel.

It’s built from high-quality materials, with durability in mind. This pack is made from recycled polyester, and the fabric is woven in a cross-weave that’s very similar to what Patagonia uses in its long-lasting Black Hole series of duffle bags . This is a material I’ve come across a bunch with Patagonia gear, and I’ve tested it thoroughly; it’s very tough. The front of the bag is coated in a weather-resistant TPU, for extra protection from the elements. The bag has large YKK zippers (the industry leader) and smaller YKK zippers throughout. Unlike the Cotopaxi Allpa pack, the Black Hole MLC bag has no security loops.

It comes with one of the best repair programs and a lifetime warranty. Similar to our other picks, the MLC is backed by an excellent lifetime warranty , and we’ve always found that Patagonia’s repair program goes above and beyond other comparable companies.

• We wish the Maximum Legal Carry (despite the name) came in a few more sizes. The 45-liter capacity may be intimidating for some people, and there is no alternative.

Capacity: 45 liters Weight: 3 pounds 10 ounces Main compartment access: clamshell Style: retro Colors: tan, black, olive, green

Osprey Farpoint 40

For long distances on foot.

A great starter option for one-bag travel, this bag is easy to pack, adaptable to most situations, and sturdy enough to take with you as you travel the world.

May be out of stock

Osprey Fairview 40

For long distances and smaller torsos.

A scaled-down version of the Farpoint, this bag has shoulder straps that are slightly lower, to keep the bag’s bulk more aligned with smaller torsos.

Updated in 2023, the Osprey Farpoint 40 and Fairview 40 packs are both built around a hiking backpack frame that’s easy to carry over long distances.

It’s built for travel but designed for hiking. The Farpoint 40 bag is well made, easy to pack, and comfortable to carry over most mid-length distances—such as walking across a city for an afternoon. (For simplicity’s sake, everything we say here about the Farpoint bag also applies to the Fairview bag.) Osprey makes excellent backpacks for hauling around, and its lifetime warranty is renowned within the industry . The Farpoint pack also has an optional messenger bag–style strap, which offers some flexibility when you’re maneuvering tight spaces like subways or crowded city centers.

It’s simple to pack, but not as spacious as it seems. Opening the bag reveals a clamshell design; it’s deep enough to accommodate most large items, yet you won’t have to fumble awkwardly with zippers once it’s time to close up the bag. The feeling you get is not unlike when you’re packing a bit of sturdy luggage, and that’s something we love about bags like this one—especially when you use packing cubes . Osprey says this bag, when fully packed, can carry 40 liters. But after using the Farpoint bag for a few years, we’ve decided that its rounded shape seems to cut into that theoretical packable space more than other bags do. In practice, the Farpoint pack’s available space is closer to—but still less than—that of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L .

It’s the easiest bag to carry among our picks. Like all Osprey bags, the Farpoint 40 has very comfortable shoulder straps. The years of design and consideration Osprey has put into its hiking backpacks are quite evident in the Farpoint 40. After more than seven years of long-term testing this bag, we’re still surprised by how great it feels to wear when fully packed. Crucially, the straps of the Farpoint 40 stow away neatly behind a zippered panel. However, when you’re using the shoulder straps, the design forces you to also use the hip straps. Though this isn’t a huge issue, if you prefer a sleeker look or would rather have the option of using shoulder straps without hip straps, the Cotopaxi Allpa pack is more flexible, and it lets you hide the waist straps while the bag is on your back.

The Fairview 40 has the same features, in a scaled-down size. The Farpoint 40 and the Fairview 40 packs basically have the same design, but the Fairview pack is made for someone with a more-diminutive torso. It’s also slightly lighter. However, it has the features and durability of the Farpoint bag. It also has the same hip belt and adjustability. On both, the chest-strap clip is also equipped with a small security whistle that’s surprisingly loud. It’s a handy feature for anyone traveling in unfamiliar environments.

• For a smaller carry-on travel backpack, this one has little to not like. However, we do wish Osprey would trade some of the sleeker contours for a little more interior space.

Capacity: 35 liters Weight (Farpoint): 3 pounds 3 ounces Weight (Fairview): 3 pounds 2 ounces Main compartment access: front-panel loader Style: active Colors (Farpoint): green (Gopher), gray (Tunnel Vision), blue (Muted Space), black Colors (Fairview): blue (Winter Night), red (Zircon), blue (Night Jungle), black

Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L

A suitcase to carry on your back.

For dedicated single-bag travelers, this water-resistant, durable bag is easy to pack and to travel with. And it’s comfortable to wear over endless miles—as long as you don’t mind the heavier weight.

The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L maximizes packing space in a bag that’s durable, water-resistant, and customizable to fit most torso lengths (there’s also a 30L version ), with plenty of organizational features to suit any digital nomad.

It’s like a suitcase, with backpack straps. The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L is built to occupy the maximum carry-on space available. It’s a nearly perfect blend of backpack and luggage. On the outside, its tear-resistant sailcloth and sealed zippers provide ample protection from sharp objects and the elements. Opening the main clamshell zipper reveals a cavernous interior and a few organizational features that make the bag a cinch to pack. The front panel is a particular standout, great for keeping track of electronics and chargers. Of all the bags we tested, the Tortuga strikes the closest balance between the carrying comfort of a hiking backpack and the space and organization of a piece of luggage.

It’s as easy to pack as luggage. When it comes to packing, the Tortuga pack has a soothingly minimal interior, as any good suitcase should. In addition to the bag’s cavernous main pocket, its interior lid has a large vented panel. The panel is too narrow to hold additional packing cubes, but it’s great for holding light jackets or doubling as a dirty-laundry bag (if you’re really committed to one-bag travel). The Tortuga is available as a 40-liter pack (the maximum space for a carry-on bag), which we tested; there is also a 30-liter version, which is compliant with some intra-European flights. The more-diminutive version is a decent choice for weekend travel or for minimalist travelers—but for those uses, we prefer the space-saving profile and extra internal organization of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L bag.

It’s very customizable. The Tortuga pack is the most adjustable model we tested, thanks to its adjustable torso length, shoulder straps, and waist-belt system. The adjustable strap system lets you manipulate the location of the shoulder straps (video) to fit a wider variety of body sizes, in both the 30- and 40-liter versions. Of the packs we’ve tested, this one (with its included load-adjuster straps at the top, to prevent the bag’s weight from sagging toward your lumbar region) is the best at distributing its weight (4½ pounds when empty—roughly 1½ pounds more than most of our other picks, except the Peak Design ). The hip straps are removable if you need, but the shoulder straps are not stowable.

• Its straps don’t stow away. Some people, especially those who are hard on their gear, may consider not being able to remove or stow the shoulder straps (as they can with our other picks, like the Cotopaxi Allpa ) a disqualifying factor. But after years of testing, traveling with, and occasionally checking our bag, we haven’t had an issue. However, if these mysteries beneath the airport also make you nervous, you might prefer our picks with easy-to-stow straps, such as the Peak Design.
• It's heavy. We’ve fielded complaints from some testers who said that older models of this bag were too heavy for them to carry, even with the padded hip belt and adjustable straps. The additional padding does add weight. At 4½ pounds, this latest Tortuga bag is more than half a pound lighter than it used to be (the difference is noticeable), and it weighs the same as the equally large Peak Design pack. We are currently testing a new, lighter, and less-expensive version of this pack—aptly named the Travel Backpack Lite 40L —and will report back soon.  In the meantime, if you think you would struggle carrying the Tortuga, we strenuously encourage you to consider one of our more-manageable picks, like the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L.

Capacity: 40 liters Weight: 4½ pounds Main compartment access: clamshell opening Style: minimal, with a rigid construction Color: black

If you want to travel like a backpacker but also fit in at a board meeting (and you have the budget for it): Consider the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 45 . This bag’s reputation for durability, adaptability, and a low-key aesthetic make it a favorite among many dedicated one-bag travelers. And after testing it, we think it’s a great bag too. That said, for the bag to really stand out against other backpacks—and to take full advantage of its carrying adaptability—you need to buy the internal frame , the hip belt , and (if you’re traveling with a suit or jacket) the shoulder strap . On a bag that already costs $330, all of this adds up. Everything about the Tom Bihn bag (the fabric, the zippers, the quality of construction) feels like an upgrade from other bags, but it’s simply too pricey, and its design is too rarified and specific for most people. The biggest flaw, from our perspective—apart from the price—is that the Tom Bihn bag lacks a dedicated laptop pocket. In its place, the company sells laptop sleeves (a fine version if you don’t have one) that clip into the bag’s central compartment. Not everyone needs a dedicated laptop pocket, but we prefer the more secure feeling of bags that do.

We’ve narrowed our specifications for a great bag to the following list of features, ordered from most relevant to least:

• Front- or back-panel loader or clamshell opening, for the main compartment: As with any good piece of luggage, with this type of bag, you should be able to open it and see everything you’ve packed. When you have a bag with a panel-loading or clamshell design—rather than a traditional, top-opening design—you can pack and unpack it just as you would a suitcase.

• Backpack strap comfort and design: You never know when you’ll be walking farther with your bag than you’d intended. The more comfortable and well designed the straps are, the easier traveling will be. “Ideally, you want a bag’s shoulder straps to adjust to the angle of your shoulders,” said Eytan Levy of Snarky Nomad. “Good shoulder straps are the difference between an easy trip and a hard trip.”
• Hip-belt comfort and design: A hip belt transfers heavy loads from your back and shoulders onto your hips, letting your legs—not your back—bear the brunt of the weight. Just having a waist belt is a plus, but having a padded and sculpted one—especially on bags with over 40 liters of volume—makes a world of difference.
• Material quality: Durability is critical for any type of luggage, but especially for a backpack that will be your only bag. Most bags worth considering are made of nylon, which resists abrasion more than polyester fabrics of similar density. Spending more, however, can get you exotic, light, and strong materials, such as Dyneema or sailcloth.
• Weight: Once the bags arrived, we weighed each one ourselves. Most of the bags weighed within a few pounds of one another. But unless you’re very strict with yourself, by the time you’re packed for a two-week journey, all bags are going to feel equally massive, even if one is just 2 pounds heavier than another when empty.
• Stowable straps: These are nice to have, but they aren’t absolutely necessary. “The more often you need to check a bag, the more often you need to hide away the straps,” Levy said. “But if the straps are tough enough, it doesn’t matter.”
• Accessory pocket layout and design: Some people will love an accessory pocket that has a specific space for everything; others may find that feature constricting and unadaptable. We prioritized bags with simple designs that guided our packing without constraining us.
• Style: This is purely subjective. We preferred bags that had a minimalist exterior style, but not all of our picks will please everyone. Most of the people we spoke with, however, preferred not to stick out like a tourist wearing a large, colorful backpack, if they could avoid it.

During testing, we flew across the country with these bags, took weekend trips to nearby cities, lived out of them on extended trips, and tried them locally in our daily routines. We also packed and unpacked each bag, using a standardized set of weeklong travel necessities and accessories, to see how well the internal organizational features (or lack thereof) aided or got in the way of efficient packing.

This is not a comprehensive list of all of the carry-on travel backpacks we have tested. We have removed any models that have been discontinued or that no longer meet our criteria.

The Away Outdoor Convertible Backpack 45L is a rare miss from the Away team. This bag is resoundingly average for the price. Although it’s made from excellent materials, the bag is let down by its overall design, which lacks any kind of structure or attention to comfort. There are better options.

The cheap, no-frills Cabin Max Metz bag is intriguing for the price. Any bag at this price should almost be considered disposable. That said, if you need a simple bag that costs less than a seat upgrade, this might be the way to go.

The GeniusPack Travel Backpack is the only model we came across that tried to fit a suit into a travel backpack. Though some people might need that, we think those who have to travel with a suit (or clothes that require pressing) would be better off with a piece of carry-on luggage . GeniusPack now offers a second version of this bag, but our conclusion hasn’t changed.

For certain people, the GoRuck GR3 is almost worth the cost. It’s strong and simple and covered by an iron-clad repair guarantee. The removable hip belt is comfortable to wear, and it’s good at displacing the weight of a 45-liter backpack. This is a decent bag. After testing it, however, we weren’t thrilled with the internal Velcro lining for compatible Velcro packing cubes. Velcro isn’t great: It wears out, it’s difficult to keep clean, and it clings to dirt. That might seem like a small thing, but for the price, this bag should feel perfect.

The Minaal Carry-On 2.0 was designed to be a backpack for business people. But if you’re carrying it for business, you’re probably wearing at least a blazer, so you wouldn’t use a backpack in any case. If you’re a business traveler who falls more on the casual end of the business-casual spectrum, and you’re not on a budget, this is a well-thought-out pack. But we think our picks are more versatile for world travel, and they come at a better price. Minaal has since introduced a 3.0 version of this bag ; our thoughts about it remain the same.

The Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L is a slightly larger sibling of the Farpoint pack. The Sojourn Porter bag is about 2 inches longer, and it pushes right up to most airline limits. If you don’t mind possibly having to check your bag at the last minute, this would be an excellent alternative to the Farpoint pack.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Chase Reeves, Matterful.co , phone interview , October 10, 2018

Addison Ryan, moderator, r/onebag , email interview , September 8, 2018

Lindsay Lorraine Calderón, moderator, r/heronebag , phone interview , September 28, 2018

Meet your guide

Kit Dillon is a senior staff writer at Wirecutter. He was previously an app developer, oil derrick inspector, public-radio archivist, and sandwich shop owner. He has written for Popular Science, The Awl, and the New York Observer, among others. When called on, he can still make a mean sandwich.

Further reading

The Best Travel Backpack

by Geoffrey Morrison

For trips ranging from a week to multiple months, the Osprey Farpoint 55 and Fairview 55 carried everything we needed comfortably.

The Best Buy It for Life Backpack (Please Don’t Call It Tactical)

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A buy-it-for-a-lifetime backpack should last you for years of heavy use. But as with all investments, you need to decide if it makes sense for you.

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Whether you’re going to school, work, the gym, the store, or on vacay, you need a bag. Here’s the Wirecutter-recommended carrying gear we love most.

I Took 5 Trips in 6 Months. My Go-To Weekender Bag Was This Surprisingly Spacious Backpack.

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Struggling to pack for your weekend away? The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L fits so much more than you’d expect.

The 8 Best Mens Travel Bags for Every Kind of Trip

From hard-shell luggage to leather weekenders and durable backpacks, these carriers will have him jet-setting in style.

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

We're not going to beat around the bush: A good travel bag is an absolute non-negotiable no matter the length of your trip. There are few factors to keep in mind when investing in a proper piece of luggage, first and foremost being the construction. You want a bag that's crafted from durable materials but is still lightweight and won't dig into your shoulders. You also should look for a style that's functional. A bigger main compartment can be helpful for fitting your essentials, as are pockets for keeping your smaller belongings organized.

From there, it's up to you decide the kind you might make the most use of. From leather weekenders for short getaways with the guys, to garment bags that keeps your business suits wrinkle-free for work trips, to hard-shell suitcases for 2-week voyages abroad, here are some of the best travel bags every man should add to his travel rotation.

Best Weekender

Troubadour weekender.

Best Duffle Bag

Filson leather-trimmed twill duffle bag.

Best Carry-On

Rimowa original cabin in silver.

Whether you're going away overnight or heading out of town for a couple of days, this sleek weekender fits a ton without weighing a ton. There are also several interior and external pockets for smaller necessities, as well space for a laptop.

Material: Recycled polyester fabric, recycled polyester lining, vegan leather trim

Dimensions: 19" W x 13" H x 9" D

Is this not the chicest duffle bag you've ever laid your eyes on? Made of hard-wearing twill with a leather trim, this equestrian-inspired Filson carrier was made to last and gets better with wear. Beyond that, it has endless space for all your essentials and makes packing a breeze.

Material: Twill/Leather

Dimensions: 19.7" x 11.8"

If you're an avid T&C reader, you'll know we're team carry-on , and team carry-on only. The Cadillac of luggage, this aluminum TSA-approved option is not only durable and lightweight, but it's also supremely spacious and can hold a week's worth of clothes (perhaps even more if you own compression bags).

One reviewer writes : "Luxurious, sturdy, beautiful. My favorite luggage. We travel everywhere together and it has never let me down. "

Material: Aluminum

Dimensions: 21.7 x 15.8 x 9.1 inch

More: The Very Best Carry-On Luggage to Take With You on Your Next Trip

Samsonite Silhouette 17 Backpack

This backpack is a game-changer because it packs as a suitcase and features tons of built-in pockets, a removable tech kit for wires and gadgets, garment compression panel, padded laptop compartment, and more.

One reviewer writes: "Perfect in every aspect. Fits overhead fits under seat. It’s a backpack with the features of a well compartmentalized suitcase and so much more. It’s also quite elegant and very well made. I got so many compliments on this backpack. Totally worth the money. In an age when overhead bags are just small, hard suitcases this bag will have you in and out of the overhead in a jiffy while others pull and tug."

Material: Polyester, Recyclex

Dimensions: 12.5" L x 7" W x 20" H

More: The Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks for Easy, Breezy Packing

Away The Large

If you must check a piece of luggage, consider this Away option which boasts a sturdy polycarbonate shell and can fit two-weeks-worth of outfits. Customers also claim Away has top-notch customer service that can assist with any issues you might face.

One reviewer writes: "Love this luggage, it’s beautiful, it’s practical and efficient and it holds up to the wear and tear of traveling so well! Highly recommend."

Material: 100% Polycarbonate Shell

Dimensions: 29" x 20.5" x 12.5"

Mark & Graham Harvey Leather Overnighter

Go bespoke with a monogrammed weekender from Mark & Graham. Made of supple pebbled leather, the timeless style offers substantial room for long weekend getaways; there's even a space designed specifically for shoes.

Material: Leather

Dimensions: 11" H x 18" W x 9.5" D

Tumi Alpha Garment Bag Tri-Fold Carry-On

Tumi makes some of the best luggage around, and its garment bag is no exception. Perfect for the businessman who frequently travels for work, this compact carrier can hold up to two suits with ample space for toiletries.

One reviewer writes: "[It] keeps the suits and shirts crisp and wrinkle free. Very handy for business travel."

Material: Ballistic Nylon

Dimensions: 15.0" x 22.0" x 6.0"

Halfday Travel The Garment Duffel

This looks like your ordinary duffle bag, but it actually also doubles as a garment bag. A hanging compartment can hold up to three suits and when all zipped up, there's even more space for tees, jeans, and other folded clothes, as well as a dedicated compartment for a pair of shoes. Genius.

One reviewer writes: "This bag is better than I even expected, and I expected a lot. The design is amazing. It holds a ton, way more than I'd need for a weekend. The quality appears to be solid... It is a beautiful bag."

Material: Polyester

Dimensions: 22" L x 12" H x 12" D

Sophie Dweck is the associate shopping editor for Town & Country, where she covers beauty, fashion, home and décor, and more. 

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The Best Briefcases for Men Help You Secure the Bag

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It comes for all of us eventually—the creeping realization that you need to graduate from your backpack to (gulp) a briefcase. But only the best briefcases for men will ensure that you don't just shuffle your way into the real world, but burst into it like you own the place (or at least look like you kind of, sort of belong). Sure, your beloved book bag can haul your laptop just fine, but if you're gearing up to fly the coop, you should probably dress like it, too.

The Best Briefcases for Men, According to GQ

• The Everyday Pick: Bellroy Via Work Bag , $129
• The Mega-Value Pick: Time Resistance Full-Grain Leather Briefcase , $233
• The Rugged-but-Refined Pick: Filson Rugged Twill Original Briefcase , $495
• The Leather Pick: Carl Friedrik Palissy Briefcase , $745
• The Convertible Pick: Porter-Yoshida & Co. Tanker 3Way Briefcase , $674
• The Travel-Ready Pick: L.L.Bean Stonington Daily Carry Work Bag , $119
• The Rolling Pick: Tumi Alpha 3 Collection Compact 4-Wheel Briefcase , $825
• The Large-and-In-Charge Pick: Thom Browne Mr. Browne Briefcase , $3690
• The Splurge-Worthy Pick: Goyard Ambassade Briefcase , Price upon request

Take to me to : How to Choose the Right Briefcase for You | How We Made Our Picks

Investing in a briefcase might feel a bit, uh, old old-fashioned . But your daily work bag doesn't have to look so dusty. After all, our modern-day working experience isn't so tied to stuffy cubicles as it is a local cafe or shared workspaces…or our own kitchen. And briefcases have morphed accordingly. These days they're lighter, but no less well-constructed, more adaptable to the many environments and “offices” we inhabit. And, crucially, they're a lot more stylish. That’s not to say the bags aren’t still elegant (they very much are), but they’re capable of taking a licking and still ticking. But only the best briefcases will look better the more you use them. Briefcases also help you focus on the essentials, ensuring that you’re not overpacking while providing plenty of storage. Dedicated laptop sleeves provide safe and secure storage with siloed zipper pockets for tablets, notebooks, and even smartphone pockets. Having everything organized in one place can help eliminate the digging around that sometimes happens in larger-sized bags, as everything is essentially all right at your fingertips.  So it's time to grow up, but if you're not sure where to begin, we’ve got you covered with a veritable A-team of options. From the hyper-technical to the rugged workhorses to the classically elegant, the high-end flexes to the affordable entry points. So, yes. Investing in a briefcase might feel like the turning of a page to being slightly more serious—but that doesn’t mean you can’t have fun considering all the new options in the process.

The Best Everyday Briefcase: Bellroy Via Work Bag

Via Work Bag

Bellroy's got a knack for minimalist design with maximalist functionality and its Tech Briefcase is a deceptively simple bag that belies its many features. The strategically-designed interior delivers maximum storage capacity in a handsome minimalist package. Unzip the sturdy nylon shell to pack in everything you need for a day at the grind: a laptop, water bottle, and a spare sweater to battle office AC extremes. Inside you'll find a padded laptop sleeve, a mesh zip pocket for keeping your smaller items like keys and sunglasses protected, and a generous center cavity for anything else you may need to haul to and from the office. On the outside, it's got a cleverly hidden zip pocket for easy-access items like a book or an iPad as well as a luggage pass-through feature that lets you attach it to luggage. Its weather resistant fabric and coated zippers help protect your goods from the weather, too. But the most clever feature might be the hidden AirTag slip pocket so you can feel safe and secure.

The Best Value Briefcase: Time Resistance Leather Briefcase

Time Resistance

Full-Grain Leather Briefcase

Amazon might not be the first place you look for a top-shelf briefcase, but we'll forgive the oversight. Crafted in Italy from fine full-grain leather with heavy brass hardware, this classic design by Time Resistance is fit to pair with your sharpest suits. Got an important meeting coming up first thing…Monday? Don't sweat it, that's what Prime is for.

The Best Rugged-but-Refined Briefcase: Filson Original Briefcase

Rugged Twill Original Briefcase

Filson has a storied legacy going back to the Gold Rush days as a manufacturer of quality and dependable goods and clothing, which is to say that their Original Briefcase is built to last. Constructed from a heavy-duty twill fabric that’s similar to what you’d find on a sturdy work or chore coat , the exterior will stay together no matter how rough on it you are. It’s also lightly waxed so that it’s water-resistant if it gets caught in the rain. Critically, the bottom is super reinforced so that when you’re loading up the two wide stow interior pockets, the fabric won’t rip or shred. Plus, the interior pockets keep everything organized and at a glance when you need it most. Rugged yet refined, the Original Briefcase is pretty much exactly what you’d want from a bag nowadays: something capable yet timeless and with plenty of functionality so that you buy it once and hold onto it forever.

The Best Leather Briefcase: Carl Friedrik Palissy Briefcase

Carl Friedrik

Palissy Briefecase

Briefcases are so inherently utilitarian that it might be odd to think of something so functional as sexy. And yet, that’s exactly the first thing that comes to mind when you see Carl Friedrik’s Palissy Briefcase. It feels like the briefcase you’d see the employees of Sterling Cooper carrying back in the ‘60s, thanks to an extremely elegant vachetta leather, which is the de-facto go-to material for high-end bags. But it’s not just that gloriously smooth, blemish-free exterior that will age gracefully. The gorgeous nickel-silver hardware really pops and will only look better the more you use the bag. Plus, it’s on the slimmer side of things, while still ensuring you’ve got enough room for a laptop, a tablet, and multiple other essentials thanks to a handful of interior zipper pockets. So, yes, this is a sexy bag, thank you very much!

The Best Rolling Briefcase for Travel: Tumi Alpha 3 Briefcase

Alpha 3 Collection Compact 4-wheel Laptop Briefcase

A rolling briefcase is a briefcase in the same way that a flying car is a car. And we'll admit that, personally, collectively, we'd probably opt for any other briefcase on this page, paired with some of our favorite carry-on luggage , to handle our business class needs. But with those confessions out of the way, we recognize that some of you are living that Up In the Air life, and optimization trumps vibes. So cash in those credit card points and get Tumi's Alpha 3 Collection rolling briefcase.

It's a softshell briefcase that holds laptops up to 15" and lets you knock out a 2-day trade show without subjecting your spine to 12-hour days lugging presentations and paperwork. Since there's no need to stay svelte, the Tumi brings a removable accordion folder, mesh panels, a gang of media pockets, a USB-A port (though it's BYO battery), and enough room for a change of clothes. Maneuvering through the airport is easy, too, thanks to its 360-degree spinner wheels and a sleeve that easily attaches to your other luggage, making for a kind of rolling luggage totem pole. Of course, it passes muster as a carry-on, so you don't have to worry about checking your work essentials. After that, your only concerns are figuring out in-flight WiFi and how to expense those in-flight whiskeys.

The Best Convertible Briefcase: Porter-Yoshida & Co. 3Way Briefcase

Porter-Yoshida & Co.

3Way Tank Briefcase

Todd Snyder

Porter-Yoshida & Co.'s Tanker bag is inspired by military flight jackets: you can see it in the standard-issue sateen fabric with contrasting orange interior, which makes finding your goods easy. Visibility gets even easier: the main compartment hinges open from one side, lying flat like luggage. Technically there's no laptop sleeve, but the slimmer zipped pocket is where you'd stash your MacBook. (We'd recommend bringing your own protective sleeve.) But we haven't gotten to the “3Way” part of the Tanker's name—and why we love this brief. It can go from tote to cross-body to backpack in a flash, with integrated backpack straps flipping out of a zipped pocket and clipping into place in seconds. Which makes running around town (or the terminal) a lot easier on your spine.

The Best Briefcase for a Weekend Away: L.L.Bean Stonington Work Bag

Stonington Daily Carry Work Bag

If you need to carry a change of clothes—maybe because work's taking you on an overnighter, or you're hitting the gym before clocking in—you want a bag that can handle the extra gear without looking like you dragged your weekender into an executive meeting. Bean's hybrid is simple enough to blend in everywhere, but has enough structure to keep things looking put together. Canvas, leather handles and zip pulls, and L.L.Bean's classic Northeastern style bring a vintage (but not old-timey) style. We'd probably opt for one of the two darker colors; they look a little more serious, and since this is untreated cotton canvas, they'll hide the inevitable coffee spills and accumulated dirt better.

The Best Splurge-Worthy Briefcase: Goyard Ambassade Briefcase

Goyard Ambassade briefcase

There's a reason your favorite rappers all name-drop Goyard a dozen times an album. The French luggage and bag house deals only in absolute grails, the type designed specifically for flaunting at your side as you descend the stairs of a private jet. This soft-sided briefcase allows you to bring all that pure opulence with you into work every day, with its iconic hand-painted, coated-canvas exterior and calfskin trims practically screaming, “I'VE MADE IT!” And honestly, if you've hustled hard enough to afford a bag this beautiful, you really have. (Speaking of price, we should clarify: Goyard's Ambassade is, obviously, not $0. Goyard doesn't sell this bag online. You'll need to call or visit a shop to get yourself hooked up. Prepare to spend four figures.)

The Best Large-and-In-Charge Briefcase

Thom Browne

Mr. Thom Briefcase

Office attire had been in the doldrums before Thom Browne came along to shift it into high-fashion territory . Of course, his brief is going to do the same. The elegant bell shape pays homage to vintage luggage, opening like a doctor's bag so you can dig around inside easily. Brass hardware against the lightly pebbled leather, with a small hit of Browne's signature red-white-and-blue grosgrain on the hang tag feels very now . There's only a single zip pocket built into the lining, but acres of space in there—at eight inches front-to-back, this brief's double the depth of almost every other briefcase option here. That means it'll happily fit your laptop, documents, and everything else during the workweek, then swallow a couple Oxford cloth button downs and some underwear as a chic weekender bag.

Your Briefcase-Related FAQs, Answered

There are a few non-negotiables when it comes to a quality briefcase, in our eyes: A laptop sleeve, ideally padded. At least two compartments for stashing chargers and things like keys, pens, and a granola bar for the midday lull. It should close so people can't dash off with your MacBook while you're ordering a half-calf.

From there, we get into matters of priority. Personally, we want enough space to stash a water bottle (hydration, so important). We also want the option to carry it with handles or sling it over our shoulder with an (ideally removable, definitely comfortable) strap, because not every day needs to be arm day. But we have a fashion-forward model or two that don't have either, and one Platinum Club-ready model that swaps straps for wheels. You gotta know what works for your work.

Finally, you gotta decide what looks right. You don't want to be hauling around a briefcase that makes you feel like a kid in his dad's clothes, nor do you want a brief that puts you at a disadvantage in the room. A big fashion flex might be your personal dream, but may send the wrong message if your weekdays are spent soliciting charitable donations. On the flip side, you can absolutely make a rugged Filson work with your power suit. Ultimately, you're the best judge of where cool and crushing it come together in the best briefcase for your situation.

Construction: A briefcase gets used and abused for 5/7ths of the week—more if you're a weekend road warrior. As a result, we look for top-quality fabrics, supple leather, well-sewn seams, hardy carry handles and straps, and zippers that don't bind or feel ready to blow out the first time you get a little overzealous packing for the day. Quality isn't always proportional to price, though up to about $1,000, every extra hundo or two tends to bring upgrades on the specs.

Style: We're past the Mad Men era of uniformly dark suits and boxy leather briefs; briefcases are now as aesthetically varied as the jobs you'd use them for. You can go sleek or fashion-forward, simple or rugged. But whatever briefcase you carry (or sling over your shoulder), it should feel like it means business in the way you need it to.

Storage: We're looking for a well-organized, adaptable interior that'll protect your laptop in its own sleeve and let you stash both odds-and-ends (from keys to keycards to headphones) and bigger stuff (maybe even gym gear) in smart, accessible ways. And we like exterior pockets on soft-sided briefs for easy grab-n-go gear.

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Best Travel Briefcase: Basic, Wheeled And More

Need a good briefcase for travel? You’re definitely in the right place! In this detailed review, you will see ten of the best travel briefcases money can buy. 

Some are standard briefcases, while other are really versatile bags that can work for anything. And you will see briefcases you can get for $30, as well as some luxe options with triple digit price tags. 

Our Top Picks

Yogci leather briefcase for men.

Perry Ellis 8-wheel Spinner Mobile Office

KROSER 17.1" Laptop Briefcase

We have plenty of variety when it comes to style, size and price range, so you’re bound to see at least one travel bag you like. Read on to find the best travel briefcase for you!

Top Product Overview

Best travel briefcases.

The Yogci leather briefcase is a great option if you need something with a large capacity . This bag can fit two laptops inside dedicated compartments – a 15.6” device in the padded sleeve and a 17.3” laptop inside the main compartment.

This briefcase has three compartments total , with plenty of space inside. In addition to the two laptops, you can also fit a tablet, all the cables, and chargers, as well as a bunch of files and folders inside the main compartments. There’s even an organizer with two side pockets, for all the small stuff you want to keep easily accessible.

And those are just the internal pockets. This bag gets better because it features four external pockets as well, one of which is equipped with an organizer. There’s also a luggage sleeve in the back, which lets you mount the bag on top of a suitcase, for effortless maneuvering of multiple pieces of luggage.

This travel briefcase is great for business travel because it looks very sleek and sophisticated. It’s made from full grain genuine leather , so you get that luxe feel when you touch it.

But what’s more important than that is that the exterior of the bag is very durable, and it’s not going to get ripped or damaged easily.

However, you should be careful how much stuff you put inside this bag. The manufacturer recommends that you keep the total weight of the bag under 60 lbs, to ensure that it’s not going to get ripped anywhere.

In case you need to carry some really heavy items in your travel briefcase, you should get the Yogci genuine leather briefcase in Crazy Horse brown leather – that’s the toughest and most durable type of leather you can get.

• Stylish and professional
• Large capacity fits 2 laptops
• Lots of small pockets
• No shoe pocket

Product Information

• Dimensions: 17.5" x 6" x 12"
• Weight: 3.3 lbs
• Material: Full grain leather

If you want the ultimate carry-on for business travel, it’s the Perry Ellis Spinner mobile office . This wheeled bag features a dedicated laptop sleeve , smaller pockets for your phone, passport, and boarding pass, and a pretty spacious compartment that can fit enough clothes for a couple of days.

I want to talk about the exterior of the bag for a bit – that’s actually one of the reasons why this mobile office is one of the best things you could get. It is made from a mixture of ballistic nylon and polypropylene , which means it’s a hybrid softside and hardside bag.

Both materials are very durable on their own, and when you combine them together you get a travel briefcase that’s tougher than your average suitcase.

This travel bag also has a spacious exterior pocket that’s great for the stuff you want more easily accessible. There are small slip pockets inside this compartment, but there’s also a lot of space so you will be able to fit documents and files in there.

In addition to that, this bag features four spinner wheels and a retractable wheel handle for effortless moving around the airport. The wheels glide like a dream, and you will have zero issues maneuvering this bag.

It is a carry-on-sized briefcase, but it is not small enough to fit under airplane seats. And that’s the main downside of the Perry Ellis mobile office – while I really like how spacious it is, I would have much preferred it to be a proper underseat bag .

Also, the laptop sleeve can only fit devices up to 13.5”, so it’s not a good option for anyone with a bigger laptop. But if you have a smaller computer, you won’t have any trouble fitting it inside the bag.

• Dedicated computer sleeve
• Spacious interior
• Double spinner wheels
• Doesn’t fit laptops larger than 13.5”
• Not an underseat bag
• Dimensions: 9.5” x 15.5” x 16”
• Weight: 4.2 lbs
• Material: Ballistic Nylon and Polypropylene

The Kroser travel briefcase is one of my favorite bags in this review. It features a sleek design that’s suitable for business travel, it’s very roomy and you can get it for less than $30 . Whether you want a very durable briefcase or just an affordable one, the Kroser laptop bag is a great option for you.

This travel bag has a spacious main compartment with a padded laptop sleeve and two open pockets inside. There’s also a compartment in the back, with a large zippered pocket for files and folders, as well as a much smaller, hidden zippered pocket.

And then there are also two smaller compartments on the front of the bag, both of which have excellent organizational features.

The first pocket has two open pockets that are great for bulky chargers and cables, while the second one features an entire organizational panel, with slots for your phone, pens, cards, etc.

In addition to that, the Kroser laptop briefcase also features expandable capacity , allowing you to make it even bigger and more spacious. This is perfect if you usually come home from your trips with more stuff than you originally brought, or if you just want that extra flexibility.

The briefcase has two sturdy grab handles with a faux leather strap, as well as a wide shoulder strap with thick padding. The shoulder strap is removable, and you can take it off entirely if you don’t want to use it.

It’s also important to note that the exterior of the bag is water repellant , so you don’t have to worry if you get caught in light rain.

However, it’s not so water repellant that it will keep everything dry in heavy downpours, so try not to expose it to the elements too much – especially when the conditions are more rugged than usual.

• Excellent organizational features
• Very affordable
• Water repellant exterior
• No side pockets
• Luggage strap is very thin
• Dimensions: 17.1” x 12.5” x 7.1”
• Weight: 2.65 lbs
• Material: Ballistic fabric

Polare Modern Travel Briefcase

If you are not worried too much about the money and want a bag that looks and feels very luxurious , go with the Polare Modern briefcase . It is made from full grain genuine leather, with durable cotton lining inside. And it’s a pricey bag, so you should probably skip it if you’re on a tight budget.

The Polare briefcase has three main compartments , as well as five additional zippered pockets on the outside. One of the main compartments features a padded 15.6” laptop sleeve, the second one has a big zippered pocket inside, and the third one is equipped with card and pen organizers.

Additionally, even though the dedicated sleeve can’t fit a 17” device, you can fit one in the main compartment with ease – just not in the sleeve. There’s more than enough room inside for multiple computers, tablets, all the computer accessories, and even a change of clothes!

One thing that I love about this bag is that it only features YKK zippers . And, that is a feature that was added in a later design, after complaints from consumers. This shows that the brand actually listens to their customers and that they want to give you the best possible product for your money.

Another example of that is the fact that they changed the fabric of the lining – it used to be polyester, but after customers complained that it was getting ripped easily they switched it to cotton, which is a lot tougher and more durable.

In general, I don’t actually think that this bag is worth the really high price point – you can find the exact same features in a bag that has one less digit in the price tag. But it won’t feel anywhere near as luxurious, and that’s why it just might be worth it.

• High end leather exterior
• Five external pockets
• Three main compartments
• Dedicated laptop sleeve doesn’t fit 17” devices (bag does)
• Dimensions: 17.7” x 6.3” x 13”
• Weight: 4.64 lbs

Thule Accent Convertible Laptop Briefcase

The Thule travel briefcase is an excellent convertible option . This bag can be worn like a backpack or like a traditional briefcase, meaning that it is very versatile. Especially with the rugged and durable materials that the exterior of this briefcase/backpack is made from.

The main fabric of the briefcase is 1680D polyester , which is very thick and strong. It has excellent tear and abrasion resistance and is even water-resistant as well.

Even though polyester is not generally as good as nylon, that’s not the case with this bag because it is made from a very thick kind of polyester.

Because of that, this bag would make a decent option if you needed something to take on an outdoor adventure. Maybe you’re not too big on the great outdoors, but if you ever needed a bag that you could bring on a hike or picnic, the Thule bag will be there for you.

It’s very comfortable to wear like a backpack, thanks to padding and breathable mesh on the shoulder straps. I think it’s actually more comfortable to wear it like that since the weight is distributed better when you have two shoulder straps as opposed to one.

Let’s talk about the capacity and storage of the bag – the Thule briefcase is very slim, and it has two main compartments . There’s a dedicated laptop sleeve for 15.6” computers, a tablet sleeve, an organizer panel, and multiple other open pockets inside its main compartments.

In addition to that, this bag also features several zippered pockets on the outside, including a SafeZone compartment that will protect your most valuable items.

The shoulder straps are stowable, so they won’t get in the way when you’re carrying this like a standard briefcase. And you get a luggage strap in the back, which lets you secure this Thule bag on top of a bigger suitcase so that it is easier to move around with several pieces of luggage.

• Versatile convertible design
• Multiple compartments
• Rugged materials
• Small capacity
• Does not fit 17” computers
• Dimensions: 17.3” x 5.1” x 11.8”
• Weight: 2.29 lbs
• Material: 1680D Polyester

Samsonite Classic Multi Gusset Toploader Briefcase

The Samsonite travel briefcase is another high quality option. It is made from 1680D ballistic nylon – a very tough and durable material that is also very water-resistant. The exterior of the bag also has excellent tear and abrasion resistance, and it would take a lot of effort to damage this bag.

That’s great – you know that everything you put inside it will stay safe and protected from the elements. And you get two main compartments for your items – one of those features a wide laptop sleeve that can hold even the bulkiest 17” laptops.

The interior of the bag also features multiple open pockets, for easy organization of all the smaller items.

In addition to that, this travel briefcase is also equipped with a variety of external pockets and compartments. There are two spacious compartments on the front panel, and one in the back. Also, one of the front compartments features an organizer panel with lots of open pockets, so you will be able to keep all your smaller stuff easily accessible.

The back of the bag also features a luggage sleeve that lets you secure the briefcase on top of a bigger suitcase. This is especially convenient if you’re traveling with several pieces of luggage because it frees up one of your hands, and just makes everything easier.

One thing important to note is that this isn’t the most spacious travel briefcase you can get your hands on. It’s great if you need something just for your laptop and files, but not the best option if you want to be able to pack clothes in the briefcase as well.

• Fits 17” laptops
• Very durable exterior
• Multiple external pockets
• High quality
• Quite narrow
• Lacks side pockets
• Dimensions: 17.25” x 12.5” x 3.5”
• Weight: 2.4 lbs
• Material: 1680 ballistic nylon

Lifewit Men's Military Laptop Briefcase

The Lifewit laptop briefcase is an excellent option if you want something really durable . This bag is made from mil spec materials, so it’s definitely one of the toughest options you can get. The exterior of the bag is made from 1690D nylon, and it is really water-resistant.

One unique feature of this briefcase is the presence of MOLLE panels on the sides. They allow you to attach anything you want to the briefcase if you have a carabiner, which means you can transform this laptop briefcase into a proper outdoor bag if you want.

The briefcase has one main compartment , but it’s really spacious. It has a 17” laptop sleeve inside, as well as a couple of open pockets for a tablet, wallet, or other small items you want to have easily accessible.

And there’s so much room inside – you could fit clothes for a couple of days, or ridiculously thick bundles of documents.

In addition to that, the Lifewit briefcase also features an extra front compartment with an organizer, as well as four closed pockets on the front and one open side pocket. The organizer in the front compartment actually features a computer sleeve that could fit a small laptop, and also extra spots for a tablet and a phone.

The bag even has a luggage strap in the back, which allows you to secure it on top of a larger suitcase, for easy manoeuvring of multiple pieces of luggage. On top of all that, this travel briefcase has a very attractive price tag as well. It’s under $50 , which is a great deal for such a versatile and durable bag.

• Very durable and water repellant
• Fits 17” computers
• MOLLE panels on sides
• Exterior not very professional
• Not a lot of pockets inside main compartment
• Dimensions: 17.7” x 6.3” x 13.4”
• Weight: 3.19 lbs
• Material: 1690D nylon

Alpine Swiss Rolling 17" Laptop Briefcase

The Alpine Swiss briefcase is another great option if you want a bag with wheels. This one features two in-line skate wheels , which allow you to wheel it around instead of carrying it in your hands.

While they might not be as convenient as spinner wheels, the skate wheels have the advantage of being low-profile, ensuring that the bag dimensions are within airlines’ restrictions for carry-ons.

And, when you look at the boxy shape of the briefcase, it’s obvious that spinner wheels would have made it too big to bring on board. But that boxy shape is also a reason to love this bag – the hardside frame means it’s a very sturdy bag.

This travel briefcase has a retractable wheel handle that allows you to easily maneuver the bag, and which locks into both extended and stored positions. There’s also a grab handle at the top, and it is important to note that all the handles are riveted onto the bag, for maximum durability.

In addition to that, this briefcase is a great option regardless of your computer size because it can fit even the bulkiest 17” laptops. And with the spacious shape of the main compartment, you will have plenty of space inside for other documents, files, and even a change of clothes.

The interior of the bag features several organizers, including dedicated pen slots and phone pockets. There is actually a divider inside the main compartment, so it should be pretty easy to stay organized while packing inside the Alpine Swiss travel briefcase.

The bag also has a few external pockets , for all those items you want to keep more easily accessible. And another important thing you should know is that this only looks like it is made from leather, but it’s not.

The main fabric is faux leather, with some plastic parts – not only does that make the bag environmentally friendly, but it also means a much more affordable price point.

• Carry on sized
• No spinner wheels
• Dimensions: 19” x 14” x 9”
• Weight: 8 lbs
• Material: Faux leather

CoolBELL Convertible Travel Briefcase  

If you’re open to getting a more versatile bag, I would suggest the CoolBell convertible briefcase . It has all the makings of a good travel briefcase, as well as two comfortable shoulder straps that allow you to carry it like a backpack.

And that’s really great if you want a messenger bag that can do both but can’t afford to spend a lot of money on it. Especially since this particular briefcase retails for less than $50, making it one of the most affordable options you will see in this review.

There are two sizes to choose from – one fits 15.6” laptops, and the other will easily fit even the bulkier 17.3” devices. They both have the same features, and they only differ in the actual size of the bag.

This convertible briefcase has two main compartments . One features a laptop sleeve, while the other one has an organizer panel with multiple slip pockets. And there are also several external zippered pockets, some of which are hidden and thus great for your valuables.

The bag also has a luggage strap that will make it super convenient to travel with multiple luggage pieces.

I want to talk more about how you can carry the bag – obviously, you get the basic briefcase strap that lets you carry it like a standard messenger bag, as well as two top grab handles. Then you also have the two shoulder straps that are padded and covered with breathable mesh for excellent ventilation.

But you should know that the shoulder straps are stowable, and if you don’t want to use them it’s possible to just tuck them away behind the backpanel.

• Convertible design
• Great organizational features
• No water bottle pockets
• Dimensions: 18.8” x 5.1” x 13.7” 
• Weight: 2.2 lbs
• Material: Canvas Oxford Nylon

Kenneth Cole Reaction Colombian Leather Briefcase

Kenneth Cole makes some high quality luggage for business travel , and their briefcases are particularly interesting. There are several that are made from full grain leather, and which look about five times more expensive than they actually are.

If you want a luxurious travel briefcase that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg, the Kenneth Cole one is great for you!

This bag is made from full-grain Colombian cowhide leather, which is as premium as it sounds. It’s also a high maintenance material, and you should be very careful not to damage the exterior of the bag. The leather needs to be oiled every now and then if you want it to look fresh and clean.

In terms of internal compartments and pockets, this is a very standard briefcase. It has two main compartments, one of which features a padded 15.6” laptop pocket  and a smaller tablet sleeve.

The other main compartment has an internal divider, allowing you to organize its contents however you want. It’s a spacious compartment with expandable capacity, so it works both for files and clothes.

In addition to that, this travel briefcase also features zippered pockets on the front and back panel. One of the front pockets has an organizer panel inside, which even features an RFID safe pocket .

And there’s also a luggage strap in the back, allowing you to secure the Kenneth Cole briefcase on top of a bigger suitcase for easy maneuvering of your luggage.

The briefcase is equipped with a sturdy shoulder strap that is mostly made from webbing – I love this because it’s a very durable fabric that will not get ripped easily. And there’s the leather padding, which will keep you comfortable and classy up the rugged appearance of the shoulder strap.

• Expandable capacity
• RFID safe pocket
• Very durable shoulder strap
• Doesn’t fit 17” laptops
• High maintenance exterior
• Dimensions: 16.5” x 12” x 5” 
• Weight: 3.2 lbs
• Material: Full grain Colombian cowhide leather

What To Look For

Exterior materials.

The materials a briefcase is made from can tell you a lot about its durability, quality , and ease of maintenance. And the most common materials featured in this review are nylon, polyester, and genuine leather.

Nylon is the most durable out of the bunch, especially if we’re talking about thick ballistic nylon. It has excellent water resistance even without any additional coating, and it is able to protect the contents of the bag in case of rain or snow.

Nylon also has great tear and abrasion resistance, and it will not get torn easily.

However, it doesn’t look very sleek or professional. Ballistic nylon can actually look really sporty, so it might not be the best option if you’re looking for a classy business bag.

In that case, you’ll most likely wind up with a really sleek leather briefcase. The main thing you should know about leather bags is that they are very tough and durable, but also require a lot of maintenance.

You shouldn’t expose them to the elements too much, because that could damage the leather.

Full-grain leather should be oiled every now and then if you want to keep it looking good as new. It’s also not that easy to clean – you should use either lukewarm water or products that are specifically for leather care.

Last but not least, I also included some polyester bags. They are very similar to the nylon ones, at least in terms of external appearance. Polyester is not quite as durable as nylon, so those bags might not be as tough as the ballistic nylon ones.

But they will be cheaper though, considering that polyester bags tend to be more affordable than other bags.

Briefcase Size And Capacity

I showed you a lot of different briefcases here, so at least one of them should be a great fit for you. And it’s pretty easy to weed out the ones that aren’t a fit at all – just look at the size of the laptop sleeve. If it can fit your device, awesome.

If it can’t, just cross it off the list!

After that, make sure that you’re okay with the number of main compartments a briefcase has. You want a bag that’s perfect for your needs – if you want to put clothes in it, then it should have at least one really spacious compartment. If that’s not the case, you’ll be okay with some slimmer and smaller bags.

Additionally, the amount of external pockets are also very important.

We’re talking about travel briefcases here, so it makes sense to look for pockets where you can put your phone, passport, boarding pass, etc. – all those things that you want to keep secure, but easily accessible at the same time.

But, are you okay with a basic bag, or do you want one that has extra features? Maybe you’d like RFID-safe pockets? Or even MOLLE panels? Really think about this – if there are any features that are a must for you, then look for a bag that has them.

You can find info on any additional features in the pro boxes, so check what those say before you actually buy anything!

Briefcase Shape And Type

I showed you several different types of briefcases here, and it’s important that you choose the one that fits your lifestyle best.

If you want a bag that you can wear multiple different ways or use for different occasions, go with a convertible briefcase or maybe even a messenger bag .

These bags can also be worn as backpacks, which might be more convenient for daily commute. And they have all the features you get on a standard briefcase, so you’re not really giving up on anything.

You also saw some wheeled travel briefcases – I recommend these to people who usually carry some really heavy items in their bags. Wheels mean that you don’t actually have to pick up your bag, so you’ll be able to move around with ease even it weighs some 20 lbs.

And of course, there’s the standard briefcase style that was predominantly featured in this review. If that’s exactly what you’re looking for, then just make sure that you’re okay with the number of compartments, pockets, and the materials a bag is made from before you actually buy it.

Best Travel Briefcase: Our Top Choices

Having a hard time choosing just one travel briefcase? You can just go with one of our top three picks, depending on the exact briefcase style you’re looking for!

If you just want a basic travel briefcase , one of the best options is the Yogci leather briefcase . It looks sleek and professional, which makes it one of the top options for business travel.

And it has three main compartments that can fit two laptops (both 17″ and 15.6″ ones), an abundance of external pockets and organizer panels, as well as a luggage strap in the back. As long as you’re okay with the high-maintenance leather exterior and a slightly high price point, you’ll like the Yogci briefcase a lot.

In case you would prefer a more versatile bag , go with the Thule Accent travel briefcase . It converts into a backpack thanks to the two comfy shoulder straps, which makes this bag suitable for many different things.

It’s an excellent briefcase for business travel, but also a decent backpack for hikes. With multiple main compartments, tablet and laptop sleeves, and a variety of external pockets, everyone can find something to love about the Thule bag.

• Protect a 15.6" PC and 10" tablet in dedicated pockets
• Safeguard glasses or other valuables in Safe Zone compartment

Wheeled briefcases are also very popular because they are so incredibly convenient. And one of the best-wheeled briefcases you can get is the Perry Ellis Mobile Office . It features spinner wheels so you can roll it in any direction you want, as well as a very spacious main compartment.

The bag is made from both polypropylene and ballistic nylon, and it’s this hybrid construction that makes it more durable than any other travel briefcase. If you want a bag that’s rugged, easy to travel with, and spacious enough to be your only bag, this is the one to get.

• Ballistic construction
• Spacious compartment

Head over to Amazon to see the prices of any one of these awesome travel briefcases. But before you do that, would you check out our related posts first? We have more bags we want to show you, and you might just fall in love with some of them!

RELATED POSTS: 

BEST ROLLING BRIEFCASE FOR WOMEN

MESSENGER BAG VS. BACKPACK 

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Effortless Gent

The 12 Best Bags For Men (For Travel, Gym, And Work)

We’re huge proponents of choosing specific bags for each of the situations you’re likely to encounter day-to-day. In this guide, we’ll be covering the 12 best bags for men in each category: The best work bags for men, the best travel bags, and the best gym bags. 

Whether for your daily commute , weekend trips, or visits to the gym , having the right bag makes packing and organizing everything you need easy and enjoyable.

We’ve personally tested a majority of the bags in this review, and want to pass our understanding on to you. Every bag is designed with a specific purpose in mind.

Equipping yourself with the right bag for each activity will make your life much closer to being effortless. With that being said, are you ready to see the best men’s bags for work, travel, and beyond?

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Best Men’s Work Bags

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A man’s work bag needs to be versatile and efficient . Having tested and compared a wide selection of work bag options, we’ve found ourselves happiest with the briefcase style. We love these four bags below:

Best Rugged Work Bag: Filson Large Briefcase

Made in the USA from waxed twill, complete with bridle leather handles and strap, the Filson is tough as nails and made for everyday use.

Protect your laptop in this large briefcase made with our nearly indestructible Rugged Twill. Inside are four roomy full-length sections. One is the perfect size for a laptop computer. More pockets hold a battery pack, diskettes, calculator, business cards, pens, pencils and notebooks.

Brass zippers and leather pulls stand up to long-term use, and all eight of this bag’s pockets feature heavy-duty canvas stitching. Better yet, a double bottom ensures that it will keep its shape no matter how much you need to carry.

Great All Around Soft Sided Briefcase: Stuart and Lau Cary Briefcase

The Wirecutter’s vetting process for their reviews is legendary. It definitely means something that Stuart and Lau’s Cary briefcase has been named their top briefcase two years in a row.

Our original briefcase, the Cary is crafted from proprietary DuraLite™ fabric, an ultra lightweight, high tenacity twill with a waterproof backing. Smart sleeves put items at hand, while the main compartment secures valuables in tidy order

And honestly, we’d have to agree: Lightweight and nearly waterproof, yet ultra-durable with a good carrying capacity, it’s one of the most versatile bags we’ve ever used. All and all, this is one of the best bags for men out there.

Luxury Leather Briefcase: Daveed Slim Briefcase

Stylish and minimalist, the Daveed is made of buttery soft full-grain leather.

"A daytime bag designed for power and performance. Padded 15” laptop sleeve and hidden zippered pockets keep essentials secure and organized. Non-slip strap and wrap-around Riri zipper work together to deliver unparalleled ease and access."

The Riri zippers glide smooth as silk every time, and feel so good to use in both directions. Plus, the two-way zippers allow the Daveed to open extra-wide, making it both sleek in appearance and abundant in storage space.

Check out our post on how to spot a quality leather bag , featuring Daveed’s leather briefcase.

Tough and Oversized Leather Briefcase: Saddleback Leather Co. Flight Bag

As rugged as a work bag comes, the Saddleback Leather Company’s Flight Bag is unique in having no breakable components.

This leather laptop bag is over-engineered with no breakable parts like magnets, zippers, snaps, buttons, etc. Just a few pieces of strong leather put together in a good looking way.

Instead, they use choice cuts of extra-strong leather, riveted reinforcements, and 316 stainless steel buckles. It’s a little pricey, but damn near indestructible and ready for any adventure.

The Best Backpacks for Men (work and travel)

Backpacks aren’t just for school anymore. Modern designers have come to appreciate the sleek lines and convenient over-the-shoulder storage of backpacks, and are now making products that any man should be proud to wear.

Three backpacks stand out in our mind as great combinations of style, comfort, and convenience:

Favorite Casual Everyday Backpack: Aer Flight Pack 2

Cleverly designed to transform into a backpack, shoulder bag, or soft briefcase. We love that the Aer Flight Pack 2 is versatile, affordable, and has super clean lines.

"The versatile 3-way backpack designed for travel . Its versatile design allows you to comfortably carry it as a backpack, a shoulder bag or a brief with handles. Multiple pockets for your daily essentials keep you organized and ready to work on the go."

The plastic hardware and Cordura nylon make it less suitable for (formal) professional use, but perfectly applicable to day trips, weekends, and short hikes.

Sleek Leather Work Backpack: Daveed Business Backpack

Featuring the same super-smooth full-grain German leather as their briefcase (above), Daveed’s business backpack might change your opinion about what outfits you can wear a backpack with.

"Sophisticated enough to wear to work. Large enough to hold a change of clothes and shoes. Secure enough to hold your laptop in a padded compartment. At 4.5 inches wide and with foam-cushioned adjustable leather straps, this bag has your back."

It’s every bit as stylish as a leather briefcase, but offers a much more lightweight and streamlined way to pack your essentials.

Great Tech Commute-to-Work Option: Stuart and Lau Capstone Backpack

This bag is designed specifically for men who are always on-the-go. The Capstone from Stuart and Lau is shaped to allow easy access without ever leaving your shoulders.

" Designed to never leave the shoulders, smart sleeves and pockets keep items at hand, while the main compartment is easily accessed on the go by the top flap or side zipper. Waterproof pocket for umbrella or thermos, airport-friendly top loading laptop sleeve, and foam injected straps for carrying comfort."

Efficient, fluid movements allow you to grab your laptop, wallet, keys, and more without ever letting the Capstone touch the ground.

Best Men’s Gym and Travel Bags

Despite their seemingly different purposes, men’s gym and travel bags share a lot in common. You’ll likely be storing a change of clothes or two, a pair of shoes , and any accessories (phone, wallet, and watch ) that you usually carry.

Each of the five bags below can do double duty as either a gym or travel bag:

Three Awesome Minimal Travel Bags

Minimal style and efficient functions are everything in a travel bag. In fact, it’s essential when looking at the best bags for men.

Each of these three bags has been a hit on our trips — so much so that we can’t quite decide which one we like best!

Nomad Lane Bento Bag

Named for the compartmentalized lunch boxes favored across most of Japan, Nomad Lane’s Bento Bag features similar customization options.

"The Bento Bag is the ultimate travel companion. With thoughtful features built for travelers, it can be used as a weekender, personal item bag or an everyday bag."

It’s a super cool hybrid bag, opening down the middle like a suitcase but carrying like a shoulder bag. If you fly a lot, the easy access charging port is a complete lifesaver (and TSA-approved).

I’ve done a few videos for the Nomad Lane Bento Bag. You can check them out here and here .

J.Crew Ludlow Garment Duffel

A whole lot of bag for a bargain of a price! J. Crew’s Ludlow offers huge amounts of storage space and sport coat-carrying functionality (without wrinkling or the need to carry a separate garment bag).

"Trade out that flimsy bag that was only meant to get your suit from the store to your closet for some real armor. Made of rugged canvas, this garment bag can take all the jostling that travel brings."

A waxed cotton canvas exterior makes it a durable option for travel or gym use, and you can carry it over the shoulder or by its riveting-reinforced handles.

Hook and Albert Garment Duffel

Made of heavy-duty top-grain leather and large enough to fit a size 46 suit, this garment duffel is a real beast of a bag.

"This premium, top-grain leather Garment Weekender bag is a timeless duffle, with garment bag functionality. The Garment Weekender was designed for the overnight trip, weekend getaway, or business trip."

Shoe holders and external pockets add extra storage space without making the bag look bulky from the outside. And you can’t forget its garment bag-like capabilities (avoiding the need for a separate bag for your suits or sport coats).

Overall, it’s the perfect bag for weekend getaways or short business trips.

The Best Gym Bag: Stuart & Lau Regimen Gym Bag

Waterproof fabric and a full-grain leather trim make the Regimen stand out from the crowd of the usual gym bag suspects.

"Fully loaded with features yet sleek and stealthy in an all black composition of waterproof fabric, full grain leather trim, and gunmetal hardware—the Regimen is everything you require for gym, work, and travel all in one."

The separated and waterproof outside sections allow you to keep your work and gym items safely apart from each other. Meanwhile, the washable laundry bag section and ventilated shoe compartment really put this bag over the top.

Consider this the perfect work, travel, or gym bag.

The Best Durable, Rugged Duffel: Filson Medium Duffle Bag

Water repellent and simply built, Filson’s duffle bags feature one big interior compartment and two smaller end pockets.

This water-repellent mid-sized heavy-duty duffel is designed to carry plenty of cargo and built to take a beating. Features two inside pockets at each end, leather pulls, leather grip with two-snap closure, and adjustable, removable leather shoulder strap with leather should pad. Two way brass zipper

Between the waxed canvas exterior, brass zipper pulls, leather reinforcements, and heavy-duty stitching, this bag is made to take a beating and keep looking as sharp as the day you bought it.

The Bags I’ve Used the Most

Though I’ve enjoyed using each of the bags listed above, there’s a small selection that I turn to most often in my day to day life. With that in mind, here is my condensed list of the best bags for men. Consider this NY-commuter approved!

Filson Large Briefcase

Of all the briefcases I’ve used for work, I keep coming back to the Filson.

Its heavy-duty construction, storage options, and water resistance makes it my “old reliable.” If I’m in a rush to get out the door, I almost always grab this briefcase because I know it’ll handle even the roughest of weather and commutes.

Aer Flight Pack 2

When I’m looking for a bag that I don’t have to think much about, the Flight Pack 2 delivers.

It’s just such a versatile storage option, transforming from backpack to shoulder bag to briefcase without any fuss.

Plus, the price is just a fraction of many of the bags on this list. Consider this one of the easiest bags to invest in for complementing your existing wardrobe.

Every time I use the Bento Bag, I’m surprised at just how much space it really has. Equally stylish as a shoulder bag or handled duffle, it’s my go-to bag for trips to the airport.

Bag I’m Most Excited About: Stuart & Lau Capstone Backpack

Here’s my hot take: Anyone who brings their laptop to and from work should have the Capstone backpack .

It’s such a well-designed bag that after wearing it for a few days, it started to feel like a piece of me.

Every movement to access my stuff was smooth and effortless. Plus, it’s completely waterproof — making it a perfect commuter bag for any day of the week.

Best Luxury Work Option: Daveed Slim Briefcase

This is a slim, elegant, luxury leather briefcase perfect for the guy who prefers to travel light and doesn’t need to carry much stuff with him to work every day.

Final Thoughts: A Bag For Every Occasion

Take it from me: Once you get your bag game in place, you’ll never regret it. There’s something especially satisfying about having the right tools for the situation, every time — and the best bag to carry them in.

If you’re interested in figuring out exactly what you should be filling your bags with, check us out on Twitter . You can also find join other readers on Effortless Gent’s Facebook page , or DM me on Instagram !

Published on October 26, 2020 , Updated on December 5, 2021

Category: Style Tips

Tags: accessories , bags

About Us @ EG

Effortless Gent helps elder millennial men dress better by focusing on effortless, obtainable, everyday style. Effortless Gent has practical style advice for 40+ year old guys who can’t relate to Gen-Z style on social media, newish dads who wanna shed their comfy clothes, and seasoned, established men looking to level up their look.

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• Travel Products

The 13 Best Affordable Luggage Pieces of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

From suitcases to backpacks, these are our budget-friendly favorites.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Tamara Staples

Whether you’re planning a domestic city break or the long-haul adventure of a lifetime, travel is expensive enough without spending a fortune on your luggage. By saving on wallet-friendly suitcases, backpacks, and more, you’ll have more room in the budget for unforgettable experiences when you reach your destination. Opt for luggage from reliable brands that focus on durable materials and hardware rather than aesthetic frills and unnecessary extras. And remember that even when you’re shopping on a budget, buying well-made pieces the first time around beats having to fork out cash a second time a little further down the line. 

Our Travel + Leisure editors have tested more than 500 pieces of luggage (from carry-ons and checked suitcases to weekenders and backpacks) in our New York City lab, constantly testing new suitcases to find the best of the best. For this article, we chose the most affordable pieces under $150 that performed well both in our lab tests and during our long-term travels. We paid special attention to capacity, design, value, durability, and maneuverability, resulting in the category winners listed below.

Best Overall

Amazon basics expandable hardside 21-inch spinner.

This carry-on offers amazing durability and maneuverability at an unbeatable price point. 

There are no external pockets, and the handle is a bit wobbly.

Since the Amazon Basics 20-inch Hardside Spinner exceeded our expectations at every turn when we first tested it two years ago, we recently tested another to make sure the suitcase still meets our standards — and it does. Designed to meet the carry-on restrictions of most major airlines, it’s constructed of extra-thick ABS plastic with a textured, scratch-resistant finish. We were amazed that it survived our durability tests unscathed in a show of function and form that suggests excellent value for money. "Even after whacking it pretty aggressively with a baseball bat, this bag stood up to scuffs and scratches beautifully," says T+L senior editor Jasmine Grant . "The few imperfections that I did notice after the bat test were easily buffed out by rubbing them gently with my finger."

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

The suitcase’s fully lined interior features cross-straps on one side and a divider panel on the other. This panel includes three zippered pockets perfect for stashing smaller items. We were able to fit everything on our packing list inside with ease, even without employing the expansion feature, but you can also expand it for 25 percent more space, providing plenty of room for any souvenirs you might pick up on your trip. 

We were also impressed by the carry-on’s maneuverability. With four double spinner wheels and a telescoping handle, it was easy to push and pull over rough and smooth surfaces, turned nicely through our obstacle course, and handled bumps well — though the handle was wobbly at times. Color choices are fairly limited, but include navy blue, light blue, black, and orange.

The Details: Carry-on | 21.7 x 14.8 x 10 inches | 6.83 pounds | 41-liter capacity | Expandable | ABS, polyester

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim
• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Vicky Wasik

Best Softside Checked

Swisstech softside luggage.

This suitcase is incredibly spacious yet smartly organized, with multiple interior and exterior pockets. 

It prioritizes practicality over style and is not particularly fashionable.

While the SwissTech Executive 29-inch Softside suitcase may not win any particular style points, we thought it far out-performed many of the more expensive suitcases we tested. It’s made of a high-denier softside fabric that stood up to our durability tests well, emerging with just one small dent after we dropped it off a counter and hit it with a baseball bat. The zippers run smoothly, and there are multiple zippered pockets on the inside and outside to suit even the most organized packer.  

We loved that the zippered expansion feature meant we had plenty of space leftover after packing everything on our list. Cross-straps keep everything in place, while the integrated TSA lock means security agents can open the suitcase without breaking it if necessary. The 360-degree spinner wheels and telescoping handle afforded smooth maneuverability on concrete and carpet, and we felt the suitcase fared well on gravel given its size.

The Details: Checked suitcase | 29 x 19 x 10.5 inches | 9.1 pounds | Expandable | Denier

Best Hardside Checked

Kenneth cole reaction out of bounds suitcase.

This suitcase is cavernous yet easy to maneuver despite its large size.

As is to be expected in a suitcase of this size, it handled better on smooth surfaces than when hauled over gravel.

If you’re looking for a sturdy hardside option for your next family trip or extended international vacation, we love the Kenneth Cole Reaction Out of Bounds 28-inch Checked Spinner. It’s made of durable yet lightweight ABS plastic, with molded corner guards for extra impact resistance. We found that it stood up well to our durability tests, despite sustaining a few scuffs around the edges. The interior is fully lined, with cross-straps on one side and a zippered divider that essentially creates two separate packing spaces. 

We found it deceptively spacious and could easily have fit enough clothes and extras for a month-long trip. Organization was good thanks to a hanging accessory pocket, and the multidirectional spinner wheels and retractable handle made for easy, 360-degree mobility even around tight corners. The lightweight trolley system also gives you a little extra leeway before exceeding airline weight restrictions. We loved the suitcase’s modern, sleek look. Choose from a range of colors including black and rose gold.

The Details: Checked suitcase | 29.5 x 20.5 x 11.8 inches | 9.6 pounds | ABS, PC, polyester | Limited lifetime warranty

Best Softside Carry-on

American tourister 4 kix 2.0 carry-on spinner.

The soft polyester is both durable and expandable.

While it's extremely easy to pull, it's more cumbersome to push.

Prefer traveling light? This compact carry-on fits just the right amount for a short trip (or up to 10 days, if you're a light packer like us). As we tested it in our lab, though, we were extremely impressed with the stretchy interior compression belt and expander, which efficiently packed down our clothing and accessories — freeing up space to add a bit more if needed. It also has quite a few pockets, ranging from internal mesh pockets to external zip pocket perfect for items you'd need to easily access in transit.

This suitcase shines when it comes to maneuverability, which we quickly realized while rolling it through our lab obstacle course. It's very lightweight and easy to move, and you can adjust the telescoping handle to several different heights. All four 360-degree spinner wheels glided so smoothly, we can't imagine ever having an issue pulling this bag.

The Details: Carry-on | 23.5 x 14.5 x 9.5 inches | 7.5 pounds | 64-liter capacity | Expandable | Polyester, carbon fiber

• PHOTO: Travel & Leisure / Joy Kim

Best Hardside Carry-on

Delsey paris x united colors of bennetton carry-on spinner.

It's so much more spacious than it looks, and it has a durable hardside shell.

The handle wobbles slightly when in use.

Don't let this Delsey carry-on's small stature fool you — it's built to haul plenty of items from points A to B. We were able to fit everything on our packing list (including multiple outfits, toiletries, and shoes) with ease. While this bag doesn't have an expander, it does have quite a bit of give, which allows for a few extra items. It's also equipped with compression straps and an internal pocket for added space and organization.

At right around 6 pounds, this bag is incredibly lightweight , which is ideal for overpackers whose luggage tends to exceed weight limits at the airport. And despite its weight, it actually performed beautifully through all our lab tests — from rolling seamlessly over multiple surfaces to getting tossed around and whacked with a baseball bat without a scratch or dent. While the handle seemed to wobble a bit as we wheeled the bag around, it remained intact through our tests and fully supported the weight of the bag. This limited-edition collab between Delsey and the United Colors of Benetton is almost sold out, so get it while you can.

The Details: Carry-on | 21.75 x 13.75 x 9.75 inches | 6.2 pounds | 48-liter capacity | ABS/polycarbonate blend

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Best Underseater

Samsonite spinner underseater.

This underseater stood out for its exceptional organization features, quality construction, and flawless maneuverability.

It was a tight squeeze to fit the suitcase into our simulated underseat area, so it could be too large for smaller planes.

Designed to fit under most airline seats and small enough to qualify as a personal item, the Samsonite Spinner Underseater impressed us with its good looks and quality materials. We liked the smart color choices, too, which range from jet black to ocean or purple. Organization is a highlight, with front and side pockets for storing items you want to keep within easy reach and a spacious main compartment with a padded laptop sleeve. We were able to fit everything on our list for a two-day trip, even without compression straps. 

The front pocket includes an organizer panel with slots for your credit cards and pens. And there’s a USB port for on-the-go charging (although you’ll need to purchase a power bank separately ). We found the underseater amazingly easy to maneuver through our obstacle course thanks to its multidirectional spinner wheels and retractable, locking handle. It rolled smoothly and was light enough to pick up by the top handle for seamless transitions between stairs, escalators, and rougher terrains.

The Details: Personal item | 16.5 x 13.8 x 9 inches | 7 pounds | 2.89-liter capacity | USB port | Polyester

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph

Best Garment Bag

Misslo 43-inch gusseted travel garment bag.

This garment bag is easy to operate and comfortable to carry using the heavy-duty handles.

The length is a little too short for longer dresses, and we would have liked a few more pockets.

The Misslo Gusseted Travel Garment Bag is made from a breathable, nonwoven fabric that feels somewhat flimsy but is actually thicker than similar budget options we’ve seen. It’s best suited to light travel and is not water resistant. We loved the bag’s straightforwardness, though. It took less than a minute to pack, folds in half easily, and boasts sturdy carry handles that are comfortable even after an extended period of time. You can also pack the folded garment bag into your checked luggage. 

There’s a hole in the top for up to five clothes hangers for easy storage at your destination. We were able to fit two dresses, a dress shirt, dress pants, a suit jacket, and a belt with space leftover, although we had to fold long dresses awkwardly to fit them in (but there are longer versions available). There is a single clear plastic, zippered accessory pocket; ideally, we’d add a few more. We liked the clear window for viewing contents, though.

The Details: Personal item | 43 x 22.6 x 3.5 inches | 7.8 ounces

Best Duffel

Gonex canvas duffel bag.

This duffel offers two comfortable carrying methods and ample pockets for easy organization.

The main compartment is a little small, and we found the relatively narrow opening made packing somewhat tricky.

Made from high-density cotton canvas with plastic feet to keep it off the ground, the Gonex Canvas Duffel Bag impressed us during our durability tests. We felt the material was likely to last and easy to keep clean. The interior has one small, zippered pocket. We found the main compartment a little tight and had to use the exterior pockets to fit everything in. However, we loved the lengthways expansion feature and the fact that the side pockets are spacious enough to accommodate a pair of low profile shoes. 

The duffel also stands out for its easy portability, offering two comfortable carrying methods. We liked that you can fasten the top grab handles with a Velcro strap for added security and cushioning. And the adjustable, removable shoulder strap is padded enough to make lengthy cross-terminal walks a breeze. We found that the bag’s overall aesthetic does not look particularly high-quality, but we like that it comes in classic shades of gray, army green, and blue.

The Details: Carry-on | 20.8 x 11.8 x 9.8 inches | 2.9 pounds | 50-liter capacity | Expandable | Cotton canvas, nylon

Travel + Leisure / Nick Kova

Best Weekender

Hyc00 travel duffel bag.

This weekender offers great style and durability for a very reasonable price.

Don’t expect to be able to fit enough for more than a couple of nights away.

Constructed of high-density, water-resistant nylon, the HYC00 Travel Duffel Bag survived our durability tests without a mark. This weekender is designed to adhere to airline carry-on restrictions and offers multiple carrying methods. We found the top handles and the removable, adjustable shoulder strap soft and comfortable. We also appreciated the integrated trolley sleeve, which allows you to attach the bag seamlessly to your other luggage. 

The bag offers abundant organization with six internal pockets and two external ones. We liked the open pocket on the outside of the bag for keeping quick-grab items handy. On the inside, our favorite feature was the waterproof pocket for separating toiletries or damp clothes. We were able to fit everything on our packing list; however, there wasn’t much space leftover (don’t expect to pack for longer than a weekend away). The bag comes in colors to suit all tastes, from coral red to olive green.

The Details: Carry-on | 21.7 x 10.6 x 7.1 inches | 1.3 pounds | 30-liter capacity | Nylon | Water resistant

Best Laptop Backpack

Tzowla travel laptop backpack.

This backpack is lightweight, impressively water resistant, and offers pockets for every purpose.

You will need to purchase a separate power bank if you want to use the integrated USB port.

The Tzowla Travel Laptop Backpack is made from durable 300-denier nylon, which held up impressively in the pouring rain. It’s much more spacious than similar backpacks we own yet lighter and less bulky when fully loaded. We loved its many pockets, including a padded section for laptops of up to 15.6 inches and double-sided pockets for your water bottle and umbrella. There’s even an organizer in the zippered front pocket with slots for your pens and a dedicated key fob. 

Our favorite features include the integrated USB and headphone ports, and the combination zipper lock. We felt the lock was a particularly thoughtful touch considering the backpack is designed for carrying valuable tech . There’s even a small zippered compartment on the back of the bag for keeping valuables safely against your body when you’re in an area prone to pickpocketing . Finally, we found the backpack extremely comfortable thanks to wide, padded shoulder straps with a breathable mesh lining.

The Details: Personal item | 20 x 11.8 x 5.5 inches | 1.8 pounds | USB and headphone ports | Polyester

Best Packable Backpack

Osprey ultralight stuff pack.

This backpack folds up into a tiny square so you can easily pack it into a larger suitcase if you need an extra bag.

There is no padding or structure to this backpack because of how lightweight it is.

You never know when you may need an extra bag on your travels, and this Osprey backpack folds into a compact square that you can pack inside a suitcase or weekender. "This backpack takes up no room at all inside another bag, and you'd be able to pack this anywhere — even in your pocket," says T+L testing editor Jackie Cucco , who tested this bag during a packable backpack test .

It's on the smaller size for a backpack, though it did hold most of our packing list, including a pair of shoes and a fleece pullover. Though it's not padded or structured at all, it is outfitted with several pockets, including a small interior slip pocket with a key leash and two stretchy exterior slip pockets. Other features include adjustable shoulder straps and smooth zippers. We think it's a great choice for a foldable bag from a trusted outdoor gear brand.

The Details: Personal item | 7.48 x 8.66 x 16.54 inches | 5.3 ounces | 18-liter capacity | Nylon

Best Rolling Duffel

Travelers club upright rolling duffel bag.

This rolling duffel offers space for days and enough pockets to satisfy even the most strategic packer.

Some effort is required to maneuver the duffel over rough or uneven surfaces.

The Travelers Club Xpedition 30-inch Upright Rolling Duffel is made from adventure-ready 600-denier polyester, which stood up to our durability tests without a single dent or tear. Two in-line blade wheels make it easy to transport heavy loads, although we felt that the retractable handle could benefit from a smoother, longer extension. The duffel rolled smoothly over concrete and paver gaps but was a little trickier to maneuver over carpet and gravel. 

We loved the deceptive spaciousness of the main compartment, which easily accommodated 10 to 14 days’ worth of winter clothing with room leftover. It’s completely unstructured to suit the “chuck it all in” packer but complemented by a slew of external zippered pockets for the more organized traveler. Other perks include two hard plastic feet so that the duffel can stand upright on its own and a trifold bottom board for compact storage. Choose yours in plain black or with colored accents ranging from burnt orange to forest green.

The Details: Checked suitcase | 30 x 13 x 12 inches | 6.7 pounds | 77-liter capacity | 600D polyester

Best Briefcase

Vankean laptop briefcase.

The quantity and sizing of the various interior pockets make this an organizer's dream.

The bag looks a bit clunky.

For any professional looking for a well-organized personal item or commuter bag , this strong and durable briefcase is the perfect choice. While it may not be the most lightweight option, nearing 3 pounds when empty, this bag features so many organizational components that even the less neat travelers will be able to keep all of their items in place. The well-sized bag fit every item on our packing list without becoming too cumbersome to carry for long periods of time thanks to padded, wide straps that grip the shoulder and help distribute weight. We also love the amount of padding along the lining of the bag itself, so items — including laptops and tablets — will stay protected even after dropping the bag. The exterior is also resistant to water for an added layer of durability against rain or spills.

The Details: Personal item | 18 x 12.8 x 7.5 inches | 2.88 pounds | Canvas polyester | Water resistant

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Leticia Almeida

Other Affordable Luggage Pieces We Liked

Here are some other luggage pieces worth mentioning. Though we found some minor issues during testing, they could still be a fit for certain travelers.

Coolife Carry-on With Pocket : We loved this bag’s attractive aesthetic, roomy interior, and butter-smooth zippers. It survived our durability tests without a mark but lost points for a lack of maneuverability and interior compartments that were a little too tight. 

Travelpro Maxlite Air Carry-on Expandable Hardside Spinner : Although we were able to fit everything on our packing list inside, it was a squeeze even with the expansion feature. The suitcase was also much easier to maneuver on two wheels than four; however, we were impressed by its durability and clever organization features. 

Seyfocnia Convertible Carry-on Travel Garment Bag : We loved this bag’s intuitive design, which includes convenient straps, spacious pockets, and sturdy zippers. It was comfortable to carry, and if we had to change anything, we'd addwe wish it had a padded laptop sleeve. 

Traveler’s Choice Lares Carry-on Spinner : We love that this expandable carry-on is easy to pack and is large enough to hold all of the essentials, but we thought the wheels felt flimsy, and we wish they were more durable.

We are constantly testing luggage in our New York City lab, and for this article we put together a list of the more affordable pieces that also performed well. First, we weighed each bag, then examined it to determine the quality of its materials and hardware. Next, we packed each bag with a prescribed list of items designed to imitate a real-life trip, taking note of capacity and organization features. 

If the suitcase had wheels, we rolled it around on concrete, carpet, and gravel to see how smooth they felt. We also took each suitcase through an obstacle course meant to mimic a busy station or airport to check how well it handled tight turns. If the bag had straps, we carried it around for at least 5 minutes to see if they were comfortable. We placed carry-ons and underseaters into overhead bins and underneath airplane seats on our mock airplane set.

Finally, all bags were subjected to a durability test. We pushed each fully packed bag off a counter or from the top of a stepladder multiple times, then beat them repeatedly with a baseball bat to see how well the exterior, interior, and contents withstood rough handling. We took notes on the capacity, design, durability, maneuverability, and value of each bag, choosing the lowest cost bags with the highest results for this article. We will continue testing each bag on our travels over the course of six months, and we are constantly testing new bags to update our articles with the latest results.

Tips for Buying Affordable Luggage

Decide if you want hardside or softside .

Luggage falls into two main categories: hardside and softside . There are pros and cons to each, and you must decide which best suits your needs. Hardside luggage is made from strong, lightweight materials such as polycarbonate or ABS plastic. The rigidity affords an extra level of protection for fragile items, while these materials’ natural water-resistance is great in inclement weather. They are easier to wipe clean and may look new for longer, although some styles are prone to scuffs, scratches, and dents. Hardside luggage is also not particularly flexible, making it harder to close when you stuff it full.

Softside luggage is typically made from durable nylon, polyester, or canvas. It’s often lower in cost, making it a good bet for those on a budget (although this is obviously brand dependent). The added flexibility is a pro for overpackers or those who need to fit irregularly shaped objects into their backpack or duffel bag . Adventure travelers often prefer softside luggage, because it’s easier to throw into small spaces (like the back of a safari jeep or the hold of a cross-country bus), and it's usually more lightweight than hardside bags. These are less prone to scratches; however, the fabric may stain or fade and is harder to clean. 

Prioritize well-made items

When it comes to affordability, it’s important to consider cost per use and not just the initial layout. Sure, you can find a suitcase for $20, but if it only lasts for two trips before the wheels and zipper break, it could be more expensive in the long run than a pricier option that lasts for several years. Quality is key if you’re looking for good value. We recommend choosing luggage that prioritizes durable materials (including sturdy hardware), while keeping costs down by forgoing luxury extras.

No matter where you're going or how long you're staying, you don't want to be lugging around some poorly made suitcase that falls apart on the first leg of your journey. A good way to make sure you’re buying a reliable product is to stick with a trusted midrange brand like Travelpro or Samsonite and to diligently check industry and customer reviews. Just remember: you don't have to spend a ton of cash to get something that's sturdy and reliable. The key is knowing what you want and doing your homework beforehand.

Look at special features

Although you wouldn't want to pay more for unnecessary frills, it may help you decide between two suitcases if they're around the same price point and one has some extra features, like an expandable zipper to add extra space or USB ports to charge your phone on the go. It's helpful to explore the features ahead of time so that you're aware of what you're buying because some bags have more to offer than others. Smart features can mean many different things — even if the bag has a charging port, the power bank might not be included. If you're looking at suitcases, look at photos or descriptions of the interior to see what types of pockets there are (or if there are no pockets at all). For weekenders and duffel bags, see how many different handles there are — some have removable straps so you can carry them multiple ways. Read the descriptions thoroughly to avoid surprises.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you really only need a single suitcase, then of course you’ll spend less buying it separately. But if you’re in the market for a whole new set (whether that’s for different types of trips, for that coordinated look at the luggage carousel, or to divide between family members), then buying luggage as a set is typically — but not always — a lower cost than buying each piece individually. Sets most commonly come with two or three pieces: a carry-on and one or two checked bags of varying sizes. You can also find sets with many more pieces, from underseaters to totes. Make sure to buy only what you’ll actually use if you’re trying to stick to a budget. 

Often, buying luggage online is significantly cheaper than buying in-store. This is especially true if you use a retailer like Amazon, Target, or Walmart that offers many reliable luggage brands and the option to filter results by price for a side-by-side comparison on what’s available at your chosen price point. The ability to view unbiased customer reviews also helps ensure what you see is what you get and that the luggage is of the kind of quality you can live with. Don’t forget “own-brand” luggage from Amazon Basics and Walmart’s Protégé line — they may not have many bells and whistles, but they offer reliable products at a very reasonable rate. If you're not in a rush to buy, you can wait for big shopping events to find some suitcases on sale.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

T+L contributor Jessica Macdonald has been writing about the travel industry, with a particular focus on luggage, for more than a decade. For this article, she drew inspiration from her own research and the results of laboratory tests carried out on nearly 500 different luggage pieces by T+L’s team of travel experts. 

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9 Best Duffel Bags for Men – Stylish, Quality Gear for 2024

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Larger than a backpack but more convenient than rolling luggage, the best duffel bags for men is one of the most practical pieces of gear a guy can own. Take it to the gym, on weekend getaways, or full-blown jaunts across the world. Duffels are dependable, highly versatile, and amongst the best bag options out there.

But with so many brands and models to choose from, the search for men’s duffel bags can quickly become daunting. To help you see through all the noise, I’ve compiled the eight best choices for the modern man. Ranging from duffel-backpack hybrids to sleek leather options, the bags on this list will ensure you get where you’re going in style.

As a full-time traveler, I’m keenly aware of what makes for the best duffel bags, and based on my rigorous testing, you’ll find the top choices below.

Key Takeaways

With endless options out there (believe me, there was no shortage of research to be done), I’ll keep it real simple for ya. The best duffel bag for men is the 40-liter Patagonia Black Hole , which has ample room for a week-long trip, a weatherproof exterior, and ultra-comfortable carry options. If you’d prefer a leather investment piece, opt for the luxury long weekend packer from Tom Beckbe , while guys on a budget can’t go wrong with the Adidas Defender 4 Medium Duffel Bag .

Keep reading to discover more outstanding options when it comes to men’s duffel bags.

• Buying Considerations

Why You Should Trust Us

Final verdict, best overall: patagonia black hole duffel.

Why It’s Great: In terms of the best duffel bag, it’s impossible to beat the Patagonia Black Hole line. After testing dozens of duffel bags myself, I’ve found that this Patagonia model outperforms North Face’s Base Camp line and other similar alternatives in almost every area (ease of carry, comfort, packability, and beyond). I can’t recommend it enough.

How to Use It: This duffel bag is a backpack hybrid, meaning there are detachable straps to throw over your shoulder, rather than using the dual grab carry handles. One of my favorite features of this bag is how easy it is to convert it from a rucksack to a duffel. Simply clip the backpack straps in, and you’re ready to go. When you want to lug it like a duffel, there’s a designated space to tuck the backpack straps into so they stay out of your way.

Who is This For? This duffel bag is for the man on the move. Thanks to the backpack straps, it’s easy to handle a heavy load, which is just as well, considering this bag lives up to its Black Hole name. Ideal for travel (the 40-liter version fits clothes for up to a week), any man on the go will benefit from this bag.

Flaws But Not Dealbreakers: The main downside of this bag is that there’s no crossbody strap and you’ve got limited space to organize. It’s also worth noting that Patagonia recently released a new matte rendition of their most popular bags, including the Black Hole line. While the fabric is more eco-friendly and still water-resistant, many Patagonia fans (including myself) prefer the shinier material, which is why the older version of the duffel is included on the list.

Dimensions: 21W x 13.7H x 10.6D inches | Capacity: 40 liters | Material: Recycled polyester with TPU-film laminate | Colors Available: 1

Best Luxury: Luca Faloni Leather Weekender Duffel Bag

Why It’s Great: There are nice duffel bags, and then there’s the Luca Faloni Weekender. This is the best duffel bag for men seeking a sleek addition to their travel collection, featuring full-grain leather, a handmade Italian construction, and the perfect size for an airplane carry-on.

How to Use It: Haul this bag with either the dual grab handles or the (detachable) padded crossbody strap. To make it more compact, you can even cinch down the sides. There are a few pockets to take advantage of, the most useful being the slip pocket on the bag’s exterior, ideal for quick access to a passport or notebook.

Who is This For? This duffel bag is for the modern gentleman seeking a sleek tote all for travel, whether for business or pleasure. It’s also a wonderful choice for guys looking to invest in a luxurious piece that will last for years to come.

Flaws But Not Dealbreakers: Nearly a grand for a duffel bag isn’t for the faint of heart, but genuine luxury always comes with a price tag to match. Think of it as the purchase that will serve you for an entire lifetime.

Dimensions: 20.5 x 11 x 9.5 inches | Capacity: 35 liters | Material: Full grain leather | Colors Available: 3

Best Black Leather: Lundi Wilson Weekender Duffel Bag

Why It’s Great: There’s something so timeless about a leather weekender, and this men’s duffel bag hits every single sweet spot. Lundi specializes in leather goods, and the Wilson Weekender constitutes a pretty perfect duffel bag. Aside from the classic main compartment, this duffel has several noteworthy aspects to it. Namely: a designated laptop compartment, multiple accessory pockets, a cable organizer, a key strap, and an external pocket for quick access. There’s also a zippered shoe compartment that can be used for toiletries or dirty laundry. In terms of organization, this bag leaves no stone unturned.

How to Use It: Carry this men’s duffel bag with either the top handles or the crossbody shoulder strap. Another standout element of this bag is its stability – the shoulder strap attaches at four points instead of two to balance the load while carrying with ease.

Who is This For? This duffel bag is for the ultra-organized gentleman who understands investing in quality leather goods.

Flaws But Not Dealbreakers: Aside from the higher price tag, it’s hard to find flaws in such a perfect piece of gear.

Dimensions: 19.7 x 9.8 x 9.6 inches | Capacity: ~31 liters | Material: Full grain leather | Colors Available: 4

Best Everyday: Mismo Holdall Duffel Bag

Why It’s Great: For a classy look, this is the best duffel bag, made from a stunning linen jacquard fabric with leather and brass accents. It’s sleek and sophisticated, an apt choice for daily use or weekend trips. I love that it’s an airline carry-on size but still manages to fit it all, with an exceptionally spacious interior and multiple pockets for organization.

How to Use It: While there’s no crossbody strap, this bag is comfortable to carry with adjustable leather handles that can easily be worn over a shoulder. The main compartment can fit a few days of clothes and a pair of shoes, while the interior storage pockets are ideal for smaller items like a passport or little electronics.

Who is This For? This duffel is for the man who wants to look good on the go. The creamy linen fabric paired with the soft leather detailing is a chic option – a far cry from the polyurethane-coated duffels or traditional sporty gym bags.  

Flaws But Not Dealbreakers: The price of this bag is on the higher end, but it’s definitely an investment piece. It can easily be used as a work bag or reserved for more special travel occasions.

Dimensions: 21 x 11 x 7 inches | Capacity: 32 liters | Material: Water repellant Grand Herringbone with leather details | Colors Available: 6

Best Budget: Adidas Defender 4 Medium Duffel Bag

Why It’s Great: It’s hard not to imagine an Adidas gym tote when thinking of the best duffel bag for men. This style has been the gold standard since the 70s, making it a timeless classic in the duffel bag world. Regardless of whether you use it for a casual spin around town or a longer trip, this is the best men’s duffel bag if you’re on a budget and don’t need anything flashy.

How to Use It: Load up the roomy interior with clothes or workout gear, and use the separate side compartment for a pair of shoes or dirty laundry. This duffel makes a great travel bag thanks to the few external pockets and its ease of carry – use the dual grab handles on the top or swing it over your shoulder like a crossbody bag .

Who is This For? For the practical man, this large duffel bag is a more casual option than others on this list but as trusty as ever. It can do it all, making it a versatile and affordable choice.

Flaws But Not Dealbreakers: I definitely wouldn’t use this duffel bag for business travel since it has a much more informal look. The material is also a bit shoddy compared to higher-end options. However, it’s a top option for sports or laid-back use.

Dimensions: 24.75 x 12 x 13 inches | Capacity: ~63 liters | Material: Polyester | Colors Available: 20

Best on Amazon: Carhartt Heavy Haul Utility Duffel Bag

Why It’s Great: If you’re looking for a more utility-focused men’s duffel bag, Carhartt can do no wrong. This duffel is on the tactical side, packed with pockets galore and heavily padded straps. The separate side compartment is stellar for shoes, toiletries, or laundry, while the detachable backpack straps make it a breeze to carry, even over long distances.

How to Use It: Fill the cavernous interior with clothes or gear, and then use the side pockets for smaller items or quick access. You can tote the bag with the carry handles or, more easily, with the padded backpack straps, which are complete with a sternum belt to balance heavier loads. The backpack straps stow away into their own compartment when not in use to give easy access to the main compartment of the duffel.

Who is This For? This is the best duffel bag for men seeking an ultra-practical option with plenty of pockets. Made from durable, water-resistant canvas nylon with a range of organizational features, this bag doesn’t leave you wanting for much.

Flaws But Not Dealbreakers: Due to the canvas construction and backpack straps, this duffel is on the heavier side. If you want a lighter option, the Carhartt Trade Series Packable Duffel is nearly as durable but a fraction of the weight, making it a pared-back alternative. It also packs into itself, handy for taking on the go or storing when not in use.

Dimensions: 27 x 14 x 11.5 inches | Capacity: 55 liters | Material: 700D nylon canvas | Colors Available: 3

Best Backpack: Cotopaxi Allpa Duffel Bag

Why It’s Great: In recent years, Cotopaxi has emerged as a front-runner in the world of travel bags for men. I’ve seen them all over the world, carried by a diverse range of individuals who are seeking practical luggage with a ton of organization. While the Cotopaxi Travel Pack is the brand’s best-seller (the signature multi-colored backpack), the Allpa Duffel Bag is a prime choice. It’s a backpack duffel hybrid, giving a range of carry options and easy access to the external compartments.

How to Use It: The biggest draw to this men’s duffel bag, and Cotopaxi bags in general, is the amount of organization. This bag is decked out with pockets galore, with a designated space for every piece of clothing and gear. Load the main compartment with your outfits, and use the dual accessory pockets for tech or essentials. Finally, separate your dirty clothing with the laundry compartment on the bottom of the bag. When you want to carry the duffel as a backpack, the top straps tuck into the side pockets in seconds to keep out of your way.

Who is This For? This bag is for the guy who isn’t sure if he wants a duffel or a backpack. It offers both carry options as well as plenty of space for a week-long trip.

Flaws But Not Dealbreakers: The only aspect I dislike about this bag is how the backpack straps attach. Rather than a clip, you need to thread the straps through the buckle in order to secure them to the bag. It takes a couple of minutes, rather than the mere seconds it takes to attach the Patagonia backpack straps to the duffel using the clip mechanism.

Dimensions: 23 x 13 x 12 inches | Capacity: 50 liters | Material: TPU coated 1000D polyester | Colors Available: 6

Best Leather: Tom Beckbe Leather Weekender Duffel Bag

Why It’s Great: The Tom Beckbe Leather Weekender Duffel Bag is crafted from high-quality full-grain American leather, promising durability and a sophisticated aesthetic. Its standout feature, the clamshell opening, allows easy access to your belongings, making packing and unpacking a breeze, especially if you’re prone to chronic overpacking (we’ve all been there). The bag includes a fully lined interior with two zippered pockets for organization. Over time, your leather bag will develop a unique (only to you) patina, enhancing its rugged charm. Additionally, solid brass hardware and antique brass zippers add to its premium feel, while the roped carry handle ensures comfort during travel.

Who This Is For: This weekender is ideal for the style-conscious traveler who values both form and function. Perfect for short business trips or weekend getaways, it offers ample space without being bulky. The leather will soften with use, becoming more pliable and comfortable (and may give you enough room to jam another shirt in there one day). It suits those who appreciate a bag that not only serves its purpose but also enhances their travel style with a touch of luxury.

Flaws But Not Dealbreakers: The full-grain leather construction makes the bag heavier than fabric alternatives, which might be a drawback for some. Its premium materials and craftsmanship come at a higher price point, making it a significant investment. Additionally, maintaining the leather’s appearance requires regular cleaning and conditioning. However, for those who prioritize quality and style, these minor issues are outweighed by the bag’s numerous benefits.

Material:  American origin full-grain leather  | Dimensions:  20?(L) x 11?(W) x 11.5?(H)  |   Colors Available:  1  |   Hardware Color : Brass

Best Waterproof: Rains Hilo Weekend Duffel Bag

Why It’s Great: While Rains backpacks have taken city streets by storm, the brand’s duffel bags are an equally wonderful waterproof solution for travel or transporting gear. Sleek and simple, the Hilo Weekend Duffel comes in ten colors and three sizes, with a roomy main compartment and a waterproof finish. It’s also a much lower price point than most of the best duffel bags for men, making it a practical option if you don’t want to break the bank.

How to Use It: Pack this 37-liter duffel with enough clothes to last five days. If you need more room, opt for the Large Hilo Weekender , which offers an additional 10 liters of space. Regardless of the size you choose, the bag can be made compact by cinching down the sides and can be carried using the top grab handles or the crossbody shoulder strap.

Who is This For? This men’s duffel is for guys seeking a simple bag without any bells or whistles that still gets the job done.

Flaws But Not Dealbreakers: The only downside of this bag is there are no pockets for smaller items like keys, headphones, or a wallet.

Dimensions: 20.5 x 10.6 x 10.2 inches | Capacity: 37 liters | Material: Polyester with polyurethane coating | Colors Available: 10

Buying Considerations for the Best Duffel Bags for Men

When it comes to choosing the best duffel bag, size is the primary consideration, as this determines how much it will fit. In my experience, the sweet spot for a duffel bag for men is between 35 and 50 liters. A duffel smaller than 35 liters becomes close to the size of a standard backpack, while duffels larger than 50 liters can be a bit cumbersome.

Opt for a duffel bag with a capacity of 30 to 40 liters for a long weekend and a 45 to 55-liter duffel for a trip that lasts a week or two. Ultimately, size boils down to intended use, so if you’re looking for a weekender, you can stick to the smaller size, while a larger size can take the place of carry-on luggage for the plane.

Material is also an important consideration, as it largely contributes to the look and feel of the bag. The material also dictates the durability of a men’s duffel bag, so it’s worth weighing the options carefully.

Broadly speaking, leather duffel bags are a sound choice because they’re designed to last for years to come and have an unbeatable sleek look to them. Leather duffels are certainly an investment, given their steep price, but are the best material for business travel or for a duffel you plan on keeping for the rest of your life.

On the other hand, there are lots of great duffels made from polyester with a waterproof coating, as seen in the Patagonia, Cotopaxi, and Rains duffel bags. The benefit to this material is it’s often recycled, less expensive, and treated to be weather resistant, which means the duffels can withstand a wide range of conditions and are perfect for more versatile or adventurous travel.

Carry Options

Finally, carefully consider the carry options of the best duffel bag because this is the main dictator of comfort. The last thing you want is to choose a duffel bag that’s impossible to carry or with straps that cut into your shoulder.

At the bare minimum, a duffel will have top grab handles to lift the bag by. But the best duffel bag will also include additional carry options like a detachable crossbody strap or backpack straps to allow you to transport it hands-free.

While the crossbody strap is the most common carry option for men’s duffels, backpack straps tend to be the most practical, especially if you’re dealing with a heavier bag. This option still gives you the versatility of a duffel but with the comfort of a backpack.

As a full time traveler and an absolute bag fiend, duffel bags are my luggage preference, and I own more than 20, spanning dozens of luggage brands and heaps of different models. I have either tested out or owned each bag on this list (my mainstays are the Patagonia Black Hole and the Rains Hilo Duffel ) and created this article to share my expert knowledge with any man seeking a new duffel bag. Whether you’re crossing the city or several continents, the duffel bags on this list are dependable options to get you where you need to go in comfort and style.

While there are thousands of contenders for the best duffel bag for men, the true winner is the Patagonia Black Hole . Weatherproof and made from rugged recycled materials, this bag lives up to its name and can fit everything you need for a trip and then some. Topped off with padded backpack straps, this duffel is reliably comfortable to carry. If you’d prefer to splurge on a leather investment piece, the Luca Faloni Weekender Duffel Bag is second to none.

Men definitely use duffel bags since they’re one of the most versatile and convenient types of bags . Duffel bags are super handy for the gym, commuting, weekend trips, or longer getaways, considering the huge range of styles and sizes they come in.

It’s worth having at least one duffel bag because they always come in handy. Duffels are great for travel in countries where roller bags aren’t convenient (cobblestone streets, I’m looking at you) or if you don’t want to struggle with wheels on a train or a plane.

A duffel bag is better than a backpack if you need more space and a convenient opening. Most men’s backpacks have a top-loading design, which means they only open from the top of the bag, whereas duffels tend to have a clamshell opening, giving easy access to everything that’s inside. Because of this, duffels often feel roomier than backpacks, making them simple to pack.

Jane is a seasoned fashion expert with a particular interest in streetwear, accessories, and luxury leather goods. She splits her time between NYC, Paris, and New Zealand, constantly on the hunt for today’s latest trends

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The 12 Most Stylish and Practical Weekender Bags for Men

Perfect for the gym, office, or a quick getaway.

Our product picks are editor-tested, expert-approved. We may earn a commission through links on our site. Why Trust Us?

Whether you need to go on a fun weekend getaway or are traveling for work, a weekender bag (also known as a duffel) is the perfect accessory to take with you wherever you go. They're large enough to fit everything you need, but light enough so you can wear it around town and leave your bulky luggage at home. Some make great gym companions, while others make excellent overnight bags. From canvas styles to high-quality leather options, there's a weekender bag for everyone. Here are 12 picks to help you get started.

Fourlaps - Signature Duffel Bag

This lightweight weekender also makes a great gym companion to stuff all your gear and change of clothes. Detachable straps make it easy to carry, and with its zipper pocket and compact size, it can hold all the essentials without weighing you down.

WOWBOX - Overnight Carryon Bag

The sturdy thick canvas, genuine leather, and strong metal hardware make this a great travel bag to take wherever you go.

Herschel Supply Co. - Sutton Duffel Bag

This versatile option is constructed from tough tech-fabric. It's compact, yet holds plenty of your belongings for that weekend getaway.

Everlane - The Twill Weekender

Everlane's water-resistant carry-on fits inside any overhead compartment and pairs well with any outfit, dressy or casual.

The North Face - Base Camp XL Duffel Bag

This large-volume duffel is built for wear and aggressive handling in a heavy-duty, water-resistant nylon fabric.

Mack Weldon - The Ion Weekender

This high-tech, water-resistant bag is equipped with a handy built-in phone charger and eight different compartments (including one for shoes and one for a laptop). You can also choose to wear it as a backpack, thanks to the two adjustable straps it comes with.

Hill City - Dry Duffel Bag

With a water-resistant exterior and multiple compartments outside and inside, this versatile duffel looks great at the gym as it does on your weekend travels.

Dagne Dover - Landon Carryall

Dagne Dover's popular neoprene bags are the ultimate travel buddy thanks to their multiple zipper compartments and storage sleeves for things like your laptop, shoes and keys/phone.

Filson - Medium Dry Duffle Bag

This duffel bag is made from a robust shell fabric with a waterproof coating to ensure your belongings are protected no matter what. Take it everywhere you go, from outdoor adventures to strolls around the city.

Tecovas - The Medium Weekender Duffel

Tecovas duffel bags are made with a proprietary, semi-vegetable-tanned leather that's thick and durable and gets better with every wear.

Stuart and Lau - The Monaco Weekender

The Monaco is the classic overnight bag every traveler needs. It's equipped with smart features such as lock-compatible zippers, sleeves for passport and items needed at hand, and a strap to secure the bag to suitcases. It holds a weekend's worth of gear inside, complete with cord organizers and a zippered pouch for valuables. 

Montblanc - Sartorial Jet Large Duffel Bag

The combination of tan calf leather and deep blue nylon fabric make this weekender an elegant, refined option for traveling in style. This duffel is ideal for both business and leisure trips when worn with smart attire.

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The Foldie® Foldable Crossbody Bag, Waist Pack, Belt Bag - Versatile Travel Companion for Men and Women - Red

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• Designed for Convenience: Our Foldie Crossbody Bag is your ideal travel partner. It's foldable, making it easy to pack and carry wherever you go.
• Enhanced Security: With RFID pockets and an anti-theft zipper lock, your valuables stay protected, giving you peace of mind while exploring new destinations.
• Built to Last: Crafted from high-quality, durable materials, this bag is made to withstand the rigors of travel and everyday use, ensuring it remains a long-lasting addition to your wardrobe.
• Organized Efficiency: The smart interior pockets and an invisible back pocket keep your essentials organized and easily accessible, making it perfect for both travel and daily activities.
• Versatile Style: This bag's sleek and compact design effortlessly complements any outfit, making it suitable for any occasion, from city adventures to outdoor excursions.

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Customer reviews.

• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 5 star 62% 13% 9% 4% 13% 62%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 4 star 62% 13% 9% 4% 13% 13%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 3 star 62% 13% 9% 4% 13% 9%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 2 star 62% 13% 9% 4% 13% 4%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 1 star 62% 13% 9% 4% 13% 13%

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers like the storage space, portability, and color of the waist pack. For example, they mention it holds all their necessities, is easy to carry, and has great compartments. That said, they appreciate comfort, safety, and pocket space. Opinions are mixed on quality and fit.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers like the storage space of the waist pack. They say it has great compartments and can hold all their necessities in a safe place right on their body. Some mention that the main pocket held their 15-inch MacBook, sunglasses, and rental car. They also say it's a good size to carry just the necessities, with separate pockets for credit cards and a back pocket for cash.

"...Quality well made. Can be worn over shoulder or fanny. Lots of room and sturdy zipper. Love the color." Read more

"...It had plenty of space to carry my sunglasses & any valuables I would normally carry in a purse. Easy to pack and lots of color selections...." Read more

"Love the material and the size. Large enough for all the essentials whether traveling or around town" Read more

"I really like that it hold all my essentials . It is comfortable to wear and fits everything I typically need to fit: wallet, keys and phone...." Read more

Customers find the waist pack easy to carry, great for travel, and light weight. They also say it's waterproof, secure, and tucks into carry-on easily. Customers also mention that it sits perfectly on their upper body and is a great purse for shopping and traveling.

"... Easy to pack and lots of color selections. Highly recommend as a safe & easy way to travel with your important documents, cash & credit cards." Read more

" Outstanding bag for travel and day to day use. Security features are key. Aqua color is perfect for my lifestyle in FL. The best value for your money." Read more

"...I absolutely love mine! I am traveling and it is so easy to take around .. RFID pockets for credit cards, I have way more room than I thought and it..." Read more

"...Was able to get so many items in such a small bag. Great for traveling ." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the color of the waist pack. They mention that it has attractive colors, and the selection of colors is a plus.

"...Can be worn over shoulder or fanny. Lots of room and sturdy zipper. Love the color ." Read more

"...It’s a nice little bag but not quite what I expected." Read more

"...Easy to pack and lots of color selections . Highly recommend as a safe & easy way to travel with your important documents, cash & credit cards." Read more

"...I highly recommend this bag as it it well made and looks good while you are wearing it." Read more

Customers like the comfort of the waist pack. They say it's very comfortable to carry and love their fanny pack.

"I really like that it hold all my essentials. It is comfortable to wear and fits everything I typically need to fit: wallet, keys and phone...." Read more

"It's very comfortable on my shoulder , I love it and need a blackone." Read more

"The strap is very comfortable " Read more

"...The material is like that of a slicker raincoat and very smooth . It was not made by a professional from Foldie. Very poor knock off!!..." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the safety of the waist pack. They mention that the security features are key, it makes them feel safe when they use it, and that it's compact and secure. They also appreciate the RFID protection for credit cards and the clip that locks the purse for extra security.

"...this on my recent trip to Europe & felt my credit cards, passport etc were very safe . Used it as a crossbody sling so I was totally hands free...." Read more

"Such a disappointment… I love the bag concept & safety features ...." Read more

"...the double zippers so you can change the side it closes to, makes it feel more secure that things won’t fall out of the bottom when unzipping no..." Read more

"Outstanding bag for travel and day to day use. Security features are key . Aqua color is perfect for my lifestyle in FL. The best value for your money." Read more

Customers like the pocket space of the waist pack. They mention that it has RFID pockets for credit cards, an extra pocket for cash, and multiple pockets that make it handy to separate things. Some say that the product has a little wallet in it.

"...Separate pockets for credit cards and a back pocket for cash . Took it on safari and Europe . Can be worn with a dress up. Loved it." Read more

"...I am traveling and it is so easy to take around .. RFID pockets for credit cards , I have way more room than I thought and it tucks into my carry on..." Read more

"...lotion, cell phone, tissues and a coin purse, the space was not nearly as expansive as advertised . I was really disappointed....." Read more

"...There are 3 credit card slots with RFID protection and a slot for money as well...." Read more

Customers have mixed opinions about the quality of the waist pack. Some mention it's well made and looks good while others say the stitching started coming apart.

" Did not work for me , returned" Read more

"Love it. Worth the price. Quality well made . Can be worn over shoulder or fanny. Lots of room and sturdy zipper. Love the color." Read more

"...on the zipper was not like it was pictured on social media they don’t look as sturdy . It’s a nice little bag but not quite what I expected." Read more

"...Also I noticed the strap has stretched out so now when I wear it as a fanny it slips off easily...." Read more

Customers are mixed about the fit of the waist pack. Some mention that it's the perfect size for carrying their wallet, glasses, phone, and some small makeup items. However, others say that it is a little too small and not big enough for every day use. The size and versatility is very limited, and the belt does not get small enough to fit their waist.

"...It is comfortable to wear and fits everything I typically need to fit : wallet, keys and phone...." Read more

"...The quality is very good however, the bag, to me, seems rather large to be worn as shown...." Read more

"I like the material, I like the size but I especially like the double zippers so you can change the side it closes to, makes it feel more secure..." Read more

"...when I tried to adjust the strap to go around my waist, it was still too big . I’m not extra small but about a size 6...." Read more

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