We Tested 15 of the Best Carry-On Duffel Bags. Here's What We Found.

Matador SEG45

Pros

• ✓Waterproof zipper and materials
• ✓Apocalypse-ready construction
• ✓Versatile enough for both urban and outdoor trips

Cons

• ✕Backpack straps don't have much padding or comfort
• ✕The mostly-black interior makes it hard to find things inside
• ✕It's expensive

Specifications

Dimensions	22" x 13.4" x 10.3"
Capacity	45L
Weight	2.8 lbs

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This backpack-duffel hybrid combines functionality and versatility to create one of the best bags on the market for travelers.

The Matador SEG45 is made of 840D nylon and 420D nylon (with waterproofing), as well as ultra-durable 100D Robic Dynatec for the interior, so this thing is tough. There are lots of handy storage pockets that are zippered for ultimate organization, plus the straps are stowable for easy travel.

The clamshell opening gives you easy access to the interior, which is an ideal place to store larger items or dirty laundry. It also comes with an external-access padded laptop sleeve that'll keep your laptop or tablet safe from the elements.

Peak Design Travel Duffel 35L

Pros

• ✓This duffel is the perfect blend of elegance and functionality.
• ✓Removable backpack straps.
• ✓The leather accents are a beautiful addition, especially on the sage green bag.
• ✓For the eco-conscious travelers, this bag is made entirely from recycled materials.

Cons

• ✕The magnet clasp in the handles are pretty weak.
• ✕Not as water-resistant as some options on this list.

Specifications

Dimensions	22″ x 14″ x 10″
Weight	2 lbs

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For those who want to match functionality with style, the Peak Design Travel Duffel is one of the best carry-on international travel luggage options. Peak Design is known for its specialized camera bags, but they aim to appeal to all travelers with this product.

Best of all, this duffel bag can be carried as a duffel, messenger bag, or backpack. The Cord Hook quick-connection system allows you to customize how each strap links to the bag.

Both the shoulder strap and top handles are padded, and the removable backpack straps increase the versatility of this duffel bag. The 400D nylon is extremely durable, but the added 800D nylon padding at the bottom is a thoughtful design feature that protects the most heavily impacted part of the bag.

Style-wise, we love the color pairings and the touches of leather. The metal clasps and zippers also add to the sophisticated look of the bag!

If you're interested in other Peak Design bags, check out our review for the Peak Design Travel Backpack.

North Face Rolling Thunder

Pros

• ✓Ultra-durable exterior material
• ✓Rugged, oversized wheels roll easily on rough surfaces
• ✓North Face products come with a lifetime guarantee

Cons

• ✕Expensive
• ✕No compression straps to secure the load
• ✕No padded pockets for laptops or other electronics
• ✕No removable shoulder strap

Specifications

Dimensions	22" x 14" x 8.5"
Capacity	40L
Weight	7 lbs

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This 22" rolling duffel fits around 40L worth of items and is the only one of two rolling duffel bags on this list. This design bridges the gap between a suitcase and a duffel bag. The soft yet durable nylon exterior is flexible enough to fit gear of all shapes without the restrictions of a hard-shelled suitcase, and the main compartment is simple, without pockets or padding.

The wheels on the Rolling Thunder are built for all conditions—they are larger with more tread than a traditional suitcase, so they can handle rougher terrains like cobblestone or unpaved paths. This rolling duffel bag is definitely built to go places you'd never dream of taking your shiny spinner suitcase.

Keep in mind that the wheel system makes this wheeled duffel bag heavier than a standard duffel. Although you won't be carrying the Rolling Thunder, keep in mind that the weight of this bag with wheels could be an issue when it comes to airline weight restrictions.

KÜHL Eskape 50 Kanvas

Pros

• ✓Superior laminated nylon and other weatherproofing features keep your belongings super safe.
• ✓It comes with a side pocket that converts to a water bottle pocket.
• ✓Surprisingly comfortable shoulder straps

Cons

• ✕Expensive (but it'll last for ages)
• ✕Too big to be comfortable for smaller folks

Specifications

Dimensions	25" x 14" x 11"
Capacity	50L

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When KÜHL decided to create the Eskape 50 Kanvas, they were going for the toughest, most durable duffel on the market—something that would hold up for years of adventuring while still being usable for weekend trips or as an overnight bag. They nailed it. The durability, features, and rugged styling make this one of the best carry-on for men.

KÜHL uses an incredibly tough TPU-laminated nylon for superior weatherproofing, meaning you could get caught in an unexpected rainstorm or snowstorm and your belongings will stay safe and dry. Even the double zippers are water-resistant. The nylon is tough enough that you could drop this duffel out of a moving vehicle, and it'll stand up just fine.

There are also a bunch of fun additional features, like two compressible dirty item pouches so you can keep your smelly laundry and shoes separate from the clean stuff. Lots of pockets add extra organization, and stowable backpack straps will help you avoid any snags while in transit.

Monos Metro Duffel

Pros

• ✓Works with the nifty QuickSnap Modular Kit System
• ✓Comes in a wide range of colors
• ✓The trolley sleeve turns into an extra pocket when not in use. Who doesn't love extra pockets?
• ✓Fits up to a 15" laptop

Cons

• ✕This duffel is one of the most expensive on this list.
• ✕This small duffle bag won't work for trips longer than 3 days or so

Specifications

Dimensions	16.3" x 11.2" x 7.2"
Capacity	22L
Weight	3 lbs

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The streamlined, sleek Monos Metro Duffel is made with ethically sourced, ultra-microfibre vegan leather. At 23L, it's one of the smaller duffels on this list, but it's truly a duffel bag you can take with you from the office to the gym, or from your co-working space to a weekend trip (or wherever you please, really).

There’s an internal sleeve that fits up to a 15″ laptop, and inner pockets for a water bottle or other valuables. This duffel also has a pass-through sleeve to secure your main bag. The best thing about this duffel? It’s designed to work with the signature QuickSnap Modular Kit System so you can easily snap off and on the Classic Kit with all your essentials.

Finally, it comes in a handful of different colors. The Mahogany option is particularly drool-worthy

Timbuk2 Impulse Travel Backpack Duffel

Pros

• ✓Laptop compartment fits 17-inch devices
• ✓Great lifetime warranty
• ✓Easy-to-clean material keeps this pack looking new for longer
• ✓Comfortable padded shoulder straps make it easier to carry long distances

Cons

• ✕Zippers tend to be sticky and hard to maneuver, but they seem to ease up with time
• ✕No traditional over-the-shoulder strap option
• ✕It's only available in one color—black.

Specifications

Dimensions	22.4" x 13.4" x 6.2"
Capacity	45L
Weight	3.7 lbs

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Is it a travel backpack or a duffel? The Timbuk2 Impulse Travel Duffel serves as both, with adjustable backpack straps that tuck away so you can convert it into a duffel bag.

This hybrid bag comes equipped with several features that many standard duffel bags lack: namely, internal compression straps, a water bottle pocket, and a padded laptop compartment.

Zippered mesh pockets on the U-shaped lid keep your small items in separate compartments from the main compartment, while external zipper pockets allow you to stow wet or dirty gear.

The harness system on this duffel backpack is more extensive than anything else on this list. Not only does it have shoulder straps, but it also has a hip belt complete with mini pockets to store your chapstick or a snack. The back panel is made of breathable polyethylene foam, and the sternum strap distributes weight so that carrying this duffel on long walks is a breeze. This is one of the best duffel bags if you prefer a backpack-style carry.

Aer Travel Duffel

Pros

• ✓Comes with a laptop pocket for devices up to 15.6 inches.
• ✓Plenty of external pockets
• ✓Easy-to-pack clamshell opening
• ✓Lockable zippers make this bag super secure.

Cons

• ✕Gets uncomfortable to carry when it's fully loaded
• ✕It looks a bit too briefcase-y

Specifications

Dimensions	21.3" x 12.6" x 9.1"
Capacity	35L
Weight	2.5 lbs

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This Aer Travel Duffel is minimalistic, spacious, and carry-on compatible. The clamshell opening provides suitcase-like access for easy packing rather than the U-shape opening that's so common in this list.

However, this travel duffel bag looks incredibly professional—in fact, it looks almost more like a briefcase. You can easily transition from a work trip to a weekend adventure with this duffel bag in tow.

The interior pockets are intuitive, with a front organizational pocket, a padded sleeve for laptops up to 15.6 inches, and a mesh pocket in the main storage compartment. There are top compression straps and lockable zippers for extra security at the airport, and even a pocket for your travel water bottle.

 The functionality of such a minimalistic bag is seriously impressive, and it’s perfect for digital nomads.

Patagonia Black Hole 40L

Pros

• ✓The straps make this perfect for lugging around heavy gear without worrying about sore shoulders.
• ✓Multiple color options appeal to many travelers.
• ✓Versatile design gives travelers many options, but we love the classic 40L option as a carry-on duffel bag.

Cons

• ✕This bag is on the pricier end. But for those willing to invest the money, this duffel is built to last.
• ✕Traditionalists may miss the standard over-the-shoulder strap.
• ✕Only exterior pockets; there's no internal pockets for compartmentalizing clean and dirty clothing.

Specifications

Dimensions	21" x 13.7" x 10.6"
Capacity	40L
Weight	2 lbs

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The Patagonia Black Hole Duffel may be one of the most highly regarded options out there. It's burly yet lightweight, and it has an impressive water-repellant finish. It has two straps for backpack-style carry, so you can throw in all your gear without worrying about it being too heavy. The reinforced bottom makes this duffel bag extra durable, so you never have to worry about your equipment.

This duffel backpack has just the right amount of pockets: the large compartment has a U-shaped lid, where zippered mesh pockets allow you to store small gear on the underside. Exterior pockets provide easy access to all your travel essentials, so you don't have to search through the black hole for your boarding passes in the security line.

And true to its name, the Patagonia Black Hole Duffel Bag is deceptively large. For the light-packer or one-bag traveler, you can fit enough stuff for a multi-week trip. And for those that bring a lot of stuff, the external daisy-chain links let you add other attachments.

This duffel bag comes in multiple forms: from various sizes to an array of colors (and even a rolling duffel option), there's sure to be a version that fits any traveler's needs.

The Patagonia Black Hole Duffel Bag has a bit of a cult following, and for good reason. If bomb-proof durability and straightforward functionality are what you're after, this is one of the best duffel bags out there.

Rains Hilo Weekend Bag

Pros

• ✓Waterproof protection from rain and snow
• ✓Sleek, stylish look
• ✓Simple, easy-to-pack design
• ✓Durable materials
• ✓One of the lightest bags on this list

Cons

• ✕No pockets or organization features
• ✕The adjustable shoulder strap doesn't offer much padding

Specifications

Dimensions	20.5" x 10.6" x 10.2"
Capacity	37L
Weight	1.8 lbs

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Rains is a modern outerwear brand that specializes in waterproof jackets and bags. They combine minimalist Scandinavian design with durable waterproof materials. Take a look through their website, and you’ll find some really unique styles, plus products that are just straight-up functional.

If you get caught in a rainstorm while traveling, you don’t want to have to worry that your bag is going to soak through and leave you with a sopping wet pile of clothes. The Rains Hilo Weekend Bag uses the same signature PU-coated fabric as their rain jackets, making a waterproof duffel bag that will keep your personal belongings dry in wet weather.

Rains gives this bag a W3 on their “Water Performance Level” rating (their own rating system). Essentially, that means it’s designed to stand up to light-to-moderate rain. It’s perfect for getting caught out in a storm, but you definitely wouldn’t want to take it on a rafting trip or leave it out all day in a monsoon.

Beyond the waterproof performance, the design is very simple. There are no exterior pockets, extra zippers, or random features to get in the way. Just one big main compartment, a carry handle, and a removable shoulder strap. Really, I wish they had added at least one external zippered pocket for things you want quick access to.

If you like lots of features, this isn’t the bag for you. There’s definitely something appealing about its simplicity, though.

MAHI Classic Duffel

Pros

• ✓Timeless genuine leather style
• ✓Durable materials and construction that will last a lifetime
• ✓Amazing value for the price you pay
• ✓External pocket is great for quick-access items

Cons

• ✕Smaller main opening zipper
• ✕Shoulder strap isn’t very comfy

Specifications

Dimensions	21" x 11" x 11"
Capacity	42L
Weight	2.8 lbs

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MAHI started as a premium leatherworking factory in India in the 1800’s. They employ expert craftspeople and emphasize durability and quality in everything they make. Not to mention their products look amazing.

While not everyone will be interested in a leather duffel, for anyone who loves the timeless style and craftsmanship of well-made leather products, the MAHI Classic Duffel is a great choice. No, it doesn’t have the high-tech materials and nifty features of many other duffel bags, but it’s well-made and looks great.

The biggest advantage of this duffel is that the high-quality leather used means it will last a long time. You could easily be handing this down to your grandkids. Of course, leather does require a bit more care than synthetic materials (I recommend using Nikwax Leather Restorer).

My biggest complaint is that it doesn’t open very wide, which can make it a bit harder to pack if you’re stuffing it to the brim.

Langly Weekender Duffel Bag

Pros

• ✓Burly materials and construction
• ✓Padded sides and rigid base for extra protection
• ✓Classic styling

Cons

• ✕Doesn't include a camera cube

Specifications

Dimensions	21" x 12" x 13"
Capacity	50L
Weight	3.97 lbs

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If you’re a professional or amateur photographer who carries a lot of travel camera gear on your trips, you need a duffel that is up to the task. That means lots of structure and padding to keep your expensive equipment safe from harm.

The Langly Weekender Duffel Bag is designed specifically for traveling photographers. It's got plenty of space for hauling around camera gear, and it's built with protection in mind.

This bag starts with a sturdy base that's 9mm thick. It's made of a combination of HDPE board and EVA foam. This creates a very structured foundation that's easy to pack on, and it ensures all your gear is protected from impacts. This bag feels very sturdy.

The main material is a heavy-duty rugged twill fabric that is water-resistant and tough. It also looks great.

My biggest gripe is that there is no built-in camera organization. You'll have to opt for a separate camera cube to hold your camera and lenses. I highly recommend the Peak Design Camera Cube.

Osprey Transporter Duffel 40

Pros

• ✓Extremely durable and weather-resistant.
• ✓The main compartment is large and zippered.
• ✓Comfortable backpack straps

Cons

• ✕A heavier option die to the durable materials.

Specifications

Dimensions	21.7" x 14.6" x 10.2"
Capacity	40L
Weight	2.5 lbs

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Osprey's Transporter Duffel 40 is the ideal pack for adventurers who need a pack as rugged and tough as they are, especially in those wetter climates.

Osprey hails this pack as great for short gear-intensive trips. It is built from recycled polyester with dual-sided TPU coating inside and out, sturdy hardware, an overlapping zipper, and a DWR coating that protects your gear from the elements.

The main compartment features a YKK zipper with an overlapping rain flap for extra protection against the weather. The pack can carry up to 40L, which is the perfect weekender size to fit all your gear and be able to carry onto an airplane.

A deployable harness with a sternum strap allows you to backpack carry when desired and offers a sleek, classic duffel carry design when tucked away.

Osprey Ozone 2 Wheel Carry-On

Pros

• ✓Despite only weighing 4.5 lbs, this duffel carries 40L.
• ✓The durability of this duffel means you can haul it just about anywhere.
• ✓The giant main compartment and liquids pocket make it easy to dig things out while in the security line-up.

Cons

• ✕The handle locks at one height.
• ✕This is definitely one of the more expensive bags on this list.

Specifications

Dimensions	21.5" x 14" x 10"
Capacity	40L
Weight	4.5 lbs

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The Osprey Ozone 2 Wheel Carry-On is one of the lightest rolling bags on the market, clocking in at just 4.5 pounds. It carries up to 40 liters and is under 22" high, meeting most airline carry-on requirements. Osprey bags are built for adventure, and their wheels are designed to take a beating, so you'll be able to wheel this duffel everywhere—across train platforms and over cobbled roads—with little hassle.

This bag with wheels also has tons of organization, including a main compartment with a giant opening for easy packing/unpacking. There's a separate zippered panel area for your dirty clothes, and other pockets to keep things sorted.

The lightness of the bag is key here, especially when you're trying to shove this duffel into an overhead bin. The durable fabrics match those of Osprey's alpine packs, ensuring this duffel will last you forever.

Boundary Supply Errant Duffel

Pros

• ✓You can side-carry this duffel, wear it like a backpack, or carry it crossbody
• ✓Very stylish
• ✓The padded straps are great for heavy loads
• ✓Water-resistant materials

Cons

• ✕Small-ish capacity
• ✕The shoulder strap may get uncomfortable when packed with heavy gear.
• ✕Expensive

Specifications

Dimensions	20" x 12" x 9"
Capacity	35L
Weight	2.6 lbs

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Boundary Supply certainly loves giving their customers lots of options, and the Errant Duffel is no exception. It doesn't just convert from side-carry to backpack carry, you can even wear it crossbody like a messenger bag. This makes it ideal for all types of usage, whether it's going to the gym or taking a quick trip out of town.

This duffel bag comes with a ventilated wet/dry compartment, a luggage pass-through, quick-access pockets, and two exterior lash straps to attach other Boundary Supply items to your bag. Like the brand's other products, this duffel bag is made of incredibly durable 500D Cordura, YKK StormGuard zippers, and magnetic hardware to keep your things safe and dry.

At 35L, you can do a lot with this duffel bag, but it's simpler than Boundary Supply's other modular gear. You'll get the usual awesome quality product, but without overcomplicating it.

The North Face Base Camp Duffel

Pros

• ✓The interior has pockets for excellent organization.
• ✓Built with durable and water resistant fabric.
• ✓Ideal for expeditions, including winter trips.
• ✓The alpine-cut straps are detachable and adjustable for a perfect ergonomic fit.
• ✓Padded handles make this duffel easy to carry/haul.

Cons

• ✕The straps aren't very padded, so they can be uncomfortable at times.

Specifications

Dimensions	25" x 14" x 14"
Capacity	71L
Weight	3.9 lbs

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As you might have guessed from its name, the North Face Base Camp Duffel is built for expeditions and holds up perfectly in some incredibly challenging terrains, including winter trips. It's literally a base camp duffel.

The Base Camp Duffel is made up of 840D Recycled Ballistic Nylon designed to withstand the roughest elements you'll encounter on your travels. The extra bartacks and double stitching are nice durability features, too.

Keep in mind that this bag ranges in size from small to quite large—some even hold over 100L. Make sure you’re going for the small option if you want to keep it carry-on-friendly. Otherwise, this thing (and its haul loops) can really haul some gear.