travel carry on weekender

11 Best Weekender Bags, Tested by Travel Experts

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

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

Our top picks:

Best Overall Weekender Bag

Calpak luka duffel.

Best Value Weekender Bag

Bagsmart carry on weekender.

Best Oversized Weekender Bag

Lo & sons catalina deluxe.

Most Stylish Weekender Bag

Beis the mini weekender.

Best Duffel Weekender Bag

Herschel novel duffle.

Most Versatile Weekender Bag

Dagne dover landon neoprene carryall bag.

Most Sturdy Weekender Bag

Away the large everywhere bag.

Best Weekender Bag for Road Trips

Vera bradley performance twill grand weekender travel bag.

Most Durable Weekender Bag

Patagonia black hole duffel bag 40l.

Best Weekender Backpack

Cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lo & Sons Catalina Deluxe

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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The Best Weekender Bags for Your Next Trip, Tested by Us

Stylish and spacious picks that won’t weigh you down.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks

Final Verdict

Our testing process.

• How to Shop
• More to Consider

Take Our Word for It

Real Simple / Alexander Huang

When you don’t want to cram your belongings in a backpack or lug around a big suitcase , a weekender bag is the happy medium you’re looking for. The compact, lightweight, and durable bag comfortably stores must-have travel items, and it looks nice, too. It’s perfect for short trips and can even be used as a carry on, gym bag, or beach tote.

To help find a weekender bag that can withstand your travel schedule, we put 31 bags up against one another in our NYC lab. We packed them full of items, pushed them off countertops, and carried them around, vetting their design, capacity, organization, portability, durability, and overall value. For expert advice, we interviewed Luigi Auricchio , vice president of design at Away, Angie Rice , co-founder of Boutique Travel Advisers, Jen Perrone , travel adviser at Jen Perrone Travel, and Lindsay Myers , lifestyle and travel expert.

Best Overall

Bellroy classic weekender 45l.

It’s spacious, durable, and never feels bulky or heavy, even when filled to the brim.

Its shoulder strap attaches to plastic clips, which feel flimsier than the rest of the bag.

Balancing size and weight is the central challenge of buying a weekender bag. You want something that’s big enough to hold your stuff but not too heavy or bulky to comfortably carry. Bellroy’s Classic Weekender perfectly threads the needle. 

This 45-liter weekender bag housed our four-day packing list with room to spare, and its wide mouth allowed for easy packing. The bag has four storage compartments—fewer than other weekenders but enough to keep things organized. Even when filled to the brim, it proved comfortable to carry. The bag has two rolled-edge handles, a padded crossbody strap you can adjust or remove, and a unique barrel shape that keeps it from feeling bulky. It’s also made of polyester, so it weighs a mere 2.2 pounds when empty.

Though lightweight, the bag is deceptively sturdy. It showed no signs of wear during our durability tests, and its zippers moved smoothly, even when the bag was packed full. The bag comes in four colors, and it’s available in a smaller (35-liter) size for those who pack light. Our only qualm? The bag’s crossbody strap connects to plastic clips, which feel flimsier and of a lower quality than the rest of the bag. 

Dimensions: 25.6 by 15 by 15.7 inches | Material: Polyester | Weight: 2.2 pounds

Real Simple / Jessica Juliao

Best Budget

Etronik large overnight weekender.

It’s lightweight, spacious, and easy to organize—a better buy than many pricier bags we’ve tested.

It’s soft and doesn’t have a laptop sleeve, so it’s tough to use as a standalone bag.

Great weekender bags typically cost between $100 and $300, but Etronik’s Duffel Bag costs just a fraction of that, and it outperformed pricier bags on storage capacity, carrying comfort, and organizational features. 

The 55-liter bag easily held everything on our four-day packing list, and its numerous compartments helped us keep things organized. The bag has four outer pockets, two inner pockets, and one bottom compartment that holds two pairs of shoes. It also comes with two shoe bags, a packing cube, and a built-in USB port for good measure. Shockingly, the bag doesn’t have a laptop sleeve—an unfortunate oversight that makes it hard to use without other luggage. 

The bag is remarkably soft and lightweight. It’s made of nylon, weighs 2.2 pounds when empty, and has a flexible soft-shell construction. The bag has so little structure we had to hold it closed with two hands to zip it up, which is great from a comfort perspective. The bag’s sturdy top handles and padded crossbody strap make it even easier to carry, but it does feel flimsy. While it withstood our durability tests without damage, we wouldn’t trust it to protect a laptop when subjected to the same wear and tear.

Dimensions: 21.7 by 9.4 by 16.5 inches | Material: Nylon | Weight: 2.2 pounds

Cotopaxi Viaje Weekender Bag

It’s durable, easy to carry, and the perfect size for a two-day trip.

It comes in three eye-catching colorways, which are striking but not very versatile.

If you’re in the market for a smaller weekender bag, Cotopaxi’s Viaje Weekender Bag is a great pick. The 35-liter tote proved to be lightweight, durable, and spacious enough for a two-day trip, holding its own against the bigger duffels we tested.

The weekender is appropriately marketed as a two-day bag. It held our two-day packing list with a little leftover space, and it has several handy compartments, including a large internal pocket, two mid-size outer pockets, and a bottom compartment for shoes or dirty clothes. During our durability tests, the bag felt almost indestructible. While its zipper came slightly open, the bag incurred no wear and tear. The tote is also packed with quality features, like sturdy handles and smooth zippers that don’t stick.

Because the bag is a tote, it’s easier to carry than the average duffel. It has two pairs of handles—one short and one long—and it doesn’t bump into you or get in the way when you walk. We like that you can take the bag anywhere—the gym, the office, or an outdoor getaway. We just wish it looked more versatile. While the bag comes in three colorways, all of them are eye catching and vibrant.

Dimensions: 21 by 12 by 15 inches | Material: Polyester | Weight: 1.5 pounds

Best Compact

July carry all weekender.

Though small and lightweight, it’s sturdy, water resistant, and spacious enough for a two-day trip.

Its interior pockets are small, and its front pocket is hard to use when the bag is full.

At 18 inches wide, 10.5 inches tall, and 8.5 inches deep, July’s Carry All Weekender is dramatically smaller than our other favorites. That said, it passed all our tests and proved to be durable, comfortable, and spacious enough for a two-day trip.

Made of heavy-duty nylon, the bag is water resistant and incredibly sturdy. It showed no signs of damage during our wear-and-tear tests, and it weighs 2.2 pounds when empty—so it’s as heavy as our overall favorite despite being much smaller. The bag has supportive leather handles, a detachable padded shoulder strap, and sturdy metal hardware. Even when filled to the brim, it felt lightweight and comfortable to carry.

Though compact, the bag is the perfect size for a quick trip. With some effort from us, it managed to hold everything on our two-day packing list—plus a laptop. The bag has several pockets, but we wouldn’t mind a few more. The interior pockets are small, and the front pocket was hard to use when the bag was full. The bag also comes in several sleek colors. And though it seems pricey given its size, it felt high quality and built to last—well worth the investment.

Dimensions: 18 by 8.5 by 10.5 inches | Material: Nylon | Weight: 2.2 pounds

Lo & Sons Catalina Supreme

It offers lots of storage space and comes loaded with compartments to help you keep things organized.

Like many big weekenders, it’s awkward to carry around and too big to use as a carry on (unless you leave part of it empty).

Lo & Sons’ The Catalina Supreme weekender is one of the biggest bags on our list—a great option for long trips and heavy packers. The bag held everything on our four-day packing list with room to spare. Plus, it’s loaded with compartments that help you organize your stuff.

The 37.5-liter bag impressed us with its storage capacity and organizational features. Its spacious main compartment is lined with small pockets, and its expandable base compartment is great for shoes or dirty clothes. The weekender also comes with a laptop sleeve, cushioned dividers, and adjustable outer straps that can carry extra stuff. Though big, the bag is made of polyester, so it weighs just 4 pounds when empty. It survived our durability tests without any signs of damage.

Unsurprisingly, the bag is a little awkward to carry. It’s as comfortable as it can be, thanks to its light weight and adjustable, padded straps. But it’s still bulky and boxy. It’s also too big to use as a carry on, unless you leave part of it empty. Those are real tradeoffs, but they’re worth taking for the extra storage space. They’re also hard tradeoffs to avoid with any big weekender bag.

Dimensions: 19.7 by 9.5 by 15.5 inches | Material: Polyester | Weight: 4 pounds

Best Durable

Aer travel weekender.

It’s packed with heavy-duty features, like a rugged nylon exterior, lockable zippers, and tons of secure compartments.

It’s heavier than other options, and we could feel the extra weight when carrying it.

Every weekender bag on this list passed our durability test, surviving several falls off a counter without much (or any) damage. Aer’s Travel Weekender stands out as a particularly durable option, thanks to its heavy-duty fabric, padded laptop sleeve, and top-notch hardware.

The 35-liter bag is made of ballistic nylon, a rugged material designed to withstand wear and tear. That said, the inside of the bag has a soft woven lining that can safely hold delicate clothing. The bag also has sturdy plastic hardware and heavy-duty zippers you can lock for added security. It features three main compartments as well as several smaller pockets, which keep your stuff organized and secure as you travel. 

The bag also ticks some basic boxes. It housed our four-day packing list with space to spare, and it comes in two versatile colors. At 2.7 pounds, the bag is heavier than other options—and we felt the weight. But the bag’s cushioned handles and shoulder straps keep it comfortable to carry, and its luggage pass-through sleeve lets you store it on top of a roller bag. Plus, we’re happy to carry a few extra ounces if it means keeping our stuff safe from wear and tear.

Dimensions: 19.5 by 9 by 12 inches | Material: Nylon | Weight: 2.7 pounds

Best Leather

Monos metro carry-all duffel.

Its vegan leather exterior isn’t just stylish—it’s also water resistant, scratch resistant, and great at withstanding wear and tear.

It’s heavy and rigid when empty, and its shoulder strap seemed to fray during our tests.

During our tests, Monos’s Metro Carry-All Duffel stood out as a favorite. It’s sleek, sturdy, spacious, and easy to carry anywhere. It’s also the only bag on our list made of vegan leather rather than polyester or nylon.

The bag is small but spacious—handily housing our four-day packing list with enough space for another sweatshirt or pair of shoes . The bag’s wide mouth and two-way zipper make it easy to pack, and its vegan leather exterior feels thick but flexible, offering just enough give for overpackers. The material is also scratch resistant, water resistant, and incredibly durable, surviving several falls off a countertop with no signs of damage.

The bag is heavy (4.14 pounds), and it maintains its shape when empty, meaning it doesn’t get smaller, even when you pack light. Despite this, the bag is still comfortable to carry. Its round shape isn’t cumbersome, its thick handles feel nice, and its padded shoulder strap never slips out of place. The shoulder strap did seem to fray during our tests, and we wish it was made of nicer fabric, but the rest of the weekender screams quality. At $260, the bag may be an investment, but it feels more like a steal.

Dimensions: 20 by 10.4 by 12 inches | Material: Vegan leather | Weight: 4.14 pounds

Most Stylish

Béis the commuter duffle.

It’s sleek, sturdy, and packed with spacious compartments—a great pick for style-minded travelers.

Despite its relatively small size, it’s one of the heaviest weekenders on our list.

If you want a weekender that looks great carrying your stuff, The Commuter Duffel by BÉIS is a perfect choice. The bag has a sleek silhouette and stylish vegan leather detailing. And it doesn’t skimp on durability, storage space, or organizational features.

The 24.2-liter bag feels spacious and well organized. It has six interior compartments and four exterior compartments, including a laptop sleeve and a zipper compartment for shoes or dirty clothes. The bag felt a little snug holding our four-day packing list, but it’s the perfect size for weekend trips. Plus, it comes with handles, a shoulder strap, and a luggage sleeve, so you can easily use it as a carry on.

What impressed us most about this bag is how heavy duty it is. Everything—from its nylon exterior to its mesh interior pockets—feels high-quality and made to last. The bag incurred no damage during our wear-and-tear tests. Its base is lined with metal feet that keep it from slumping over, and the bag is heavier than other weekenders, weighing 3.15 pounds (but it never felt uncomfortable to carry). It’s also one of the more affordable bags on our list—a deal worth snapping up.

Dimensions: 21.5 by 9 by 12 inches | Material: Nylon | Weight: 3.15 pounds

Best Lightweight

Mz wallace nik.

It’s made of a lightweight quilted fabric that’s durable, protective, and comfortable to carry around.

Its shoulder strap is made of nylon, so it isn’t as comfortable as the rest of the bag.

MZ Wallace’s Nik Duffel is one of the lightest weekenders we fell in love with. It weighs just 2.1 pounds when empty and was a breeze to carry when full.

While many weekenders are made of thick polyester or rugged nylon, this one is made of REC Oxford, a fabric made from recycled materials. That fabric is lightweight and flexible, but it isn’t flimsy: The bag got through our durability tests with no signs of damage. Plus, it’s quilted, so it provides protective padding without extra weight. It also boasts nine interior pockets and seven exterior pockets, making it easy to keep things secure, organized, and protected throughout your travels.

Though lightweight, the weekender offers plenty of storage space. It held our two-day packing list with so much ease that we’d feel comfortable bringing it on a longer trip. It felt genuinely comfortable to carry, even when full. The bag has two sturdy handles and an adjustable shoulder strap—one we wish was quilted and cushioned like the rest of the bag. The bag is also available in six colorways. While it’s expensive, it balances portability and durability better than any other weekender on our list.

Dimensions: 16.9 by 7.1 by 12.2 inches | Material: Recycled materials | Weight: 2.1 pounds

Best Convertible

Dagne dover lagos convertible duffel bag.

It’s spacious, has a lot of pockets, and is convertible, so you can carry it as a handheld duffel, crossbody bag, or backpack.

It gets heavy fast and has so many pockets we worried about losing things inside the bag.

Dagne’s Dover Lagos Convertible Duffle is a spacious duffel that doubles as a backpack, a unique feature that sets it apart from the other weekenders we tested. But even without the two-in-one design, it’s a great bag: It’s massive, durable, and absolutely loaded with pockets.

The 50-liter bag is so spacious we’d dare call it cavernous. It handily accommodated our four-day packing list, and you could likely bring it with you on a weeklong trip. The bag is laden with pockets, has two padded laptop sleeves, and comes with a removable shoe bag, a key leash, and two metal D rings. These storage features are great for organization, but there are so many we actually worried about losing things inside the bag.

The recycled polyester bag weighs 3.8 pounds when empty, and it gets heavy as you fill it with stuff. We’d be mindful of this weight when traveling. The bag’s rolled handles, padded shoulder strap, and padded backpack straps make carrying more manageable. The bag also proved durable, protecting everything inside it—including two laptops—during several drops. It’s also available in four colorways and a smaller size (32 liters) that still offers lots of storage space and pockets.

Dimensions: 19.5 by 12 by 12 inches | Material: Recycled polyester | Weight: 3.8 pounds

Best With a Shoe Compartment

Calpak luka duffel bag.

It’s lightweight, compact, and packed with handy pockets and a spacious shoe compartment.

It isn’t cushioned—and its laptop sleeve isn’t padded—so we wouldn’t trust it to protect electronics.

Several of our favorite weekenders have shoe compartments, but Calpak’s Luka Duffel is one of the smallest bags that does. Though the weekender is sleek, compact, and perfect for short trips, its shoe compartment is big enough for two pairs of shoes or one pair of tall boots .

At 16 inches wide, 7 inches deep, and 12 inches tall, the bag is genuinely compact, but it easily held everything on our two-day packing list and could probably work for longer trips if you pack light. The bag has nine pockets—including that bottom shoe compartment—to help you keep things organized. Unfortunately, its laptop sleeve isn’t padded, though.

The bag is lightweight and comfortable to carry. It weighs just 2.1 pounds when empty and has two short handles and a long adjustable strap that makes a good shoulder strap but an uncomfortable crossbody strap. Made of water- and scratch-resistant polyester, the bag is surprisingly durable. It survived several falls without any damage, but due to its lack of cushioning, we wouldn’t trust it to protect electronics. The bag is also sleek, and it’s currently available in over a dozen pretty colors. Even Rice loves it. “This bag has accompanied me around the world,” she says.

Dimensions: 16 by 7 by 12 inches | Material: Polyester | Weight: 2.1 pounds

Best for Organization

Nomad lane v4 bento bag.

It offers more storage and organization features than other small bags, and its quality and durability make it a great investment piece.

It’s heavy for its size, and it’s one of the priciest bags on our list.

Nomad Lane’s V4 Bento Bag is the ultimate small but mighty weekender. At 17 inches wide, 8 inches deep, and 10 inches tall, the bag is one of the smallest on our list, but it’s loaded with pockets, offering a level of organization you rarely get with compact bags.

The 24-liter bag is deceptively spacious. It held everything on our two-day packing list with space to spare, and its plentiful pockets made it easy to keep everything organized. The bag has two main compartments, a padded laptop sleeve, and several inner and outer pockets. It even comes with a toiletry bag and a tech organizer. The weekender also folds open like a clamshell, giving you easy access to everything inside.

The bag is made of weather-resistant nylon and finished with leather details. It proved incredibly durable, surviving three falls without exterior scuffs or interior shifting. And all of its zippers ran smoothly, even when the bag was packed full. At 2.76 pounds, the bag is heavy for its size, but its rolled handles and adjustable shoulder strap make it comfortable to carry. The bag is also expensive, but it’s a worthy investment piece given its durable construction, handy features, and quality feel.

Dimensions: 17 by 8 by 10 inches | Material: Nylon | Weight: 2.76 pounds

Bellroy’s Classic 45L Weekender is our top pick, because it offers plenty of storage space without feeling bulky or heavy. We also love Etronik’s Duffel Bag , a lightweight and spacious bag that’s especially great if you’re shopping on a budget.

To find the best weekenders, we vetted 31 bags in our lab, subjecting each to a series of tests that simulated real-life conditions. We began with a brief assessment of each bag, noting its material, hardware, and straps for durability; its general size and weight; its pockets and compartments; and any special features.

We then packed the bag like we would if we were taking a quick trip. We established a two-day packing list for smaller bags and a four-day packing list for larger bags and noted how easily each weekender held our belongings, whether it was hard to zip, and if it had room to spare? We then spent five minutes walking around with the bag we’d just packed, assessing how comfortable it was to carry and whether it felt heavy, bulky, or cumbersome.

To mimic the wear and tear of travel, we also pushed each packed bag off a counter three times. We checked for signs of damage (like scratches, marks, and scuffs) and we noted whether the bag’s contents stayed secure and protected. 

After vetting each bag for design, storage capacity, portability, and durability, we considered its overall value: Was it worth the money? Every weekender on our list passed this test, meaning we’d pay full price for it and recommend it to our friends.

How to Shop for Weekender Bags Like a Pro

Size and weight.

Your weekender bag should be big enough to hold your stuff but not so bulky or heavy that it’s uncomfortable to carry. The right balance will vary from person to person—and from trip to trip. Auricchio says to ask yourself what environment you will be traveling in, how often you will be carrying the bag throughout your journey, and what you need to bring with you. 

If you need lots of storage space, favor lightweight fabrics, like polyester and nylon. Rice recommends compressible silhouettes that cut down on bulk, and Aurrichio recommends comfortable carry features, like padded and adjustable straps. 

If you want to use your bag as a carry on, you should also double check size restrictions, Rice says. Many airlines limit carry-on size to 22 inches by 9 inches by 14 inches—smaller than some of the weekenders on our list. Personal items are even smaller: about 17 inches by 9 inches by 10 inches.

A weekender bag’s material directly impacts its feel, durability, and weight—all important considerations when buying a bag. While the experts we spoke to have different favorite materials, all four recommend something lightweight, sturdy, and water resistant.

“Avoid materials prone to wear and tear, as the longevity of a weekender bag depends significantly on the quality of its construction,” Aurrichio says. He specifically recommends weekenders made of nylon, canvas, and faux leather, because they tend to be stylish and durable. Myers prefers neoprene (sturdy and easy to clean), and Perrone likes polyester and nylon (durable and water resistant). Rice recommends anything waterproof.

During our tests, we gravitated toward the same materials: Five of our favorite weekenders are made of polyester, five are made of nylon, and one is made of faux leather. (The outlier is blended from unspecified recycled materials.)

Many weekender bags have special features, like storage compartments, charging ports, and adjustable straps, but some are handier than others. “Don’t get distracted by features that won’t have a real impact on your travel experience,” Aurrichio says. “Instead, focus on the details that make traveling more seamless.”

Our experts favor practical features, like durable zippers (which make bags last longer), adjustable straps (which make bags more comfortable), and clamshell openings (which make packing easier). Pockets and compartments are great, but too many weigh down a bag and waste precious storage space. Similarly, charging ports are nice but not worth paying extra for when outlets are abundant, Myers says.

This rang true during our tests. Clamshell openings, well-organized compartments, and adjustable straps made bags easier to pack and carry. Bags with too many pockets or too few compartments were tougher to pack, and bags with sturdy zippers held up better during our durability tests.

More Weekender Bags to Consider

Quince Italian Leather Triple Compartment Weekender : This leather weekender is one of the sleekest bags we tested, and we loved that it felt durable and high quality. Unfortunately, it’s small—a two-day bag at most. It’s also expensive and heavy, weighing 4 pounds when empty.

Mark & Graham Beckett Waxed Canvas and Leather Weekender : This waxed canvas bag is lightweight and space efficient, capable of accommodating our four-day packing list and easy to store away between trips. It’s expensive, and it would benefit from more pockets and compartments, but there was little we didn’t like about it.

Questions You Might Ask

How can you tell if a weekender bag is high quality.

High-quality weekender bags are well crafted from top to bottom. They look nice, feel sturdy, have thoughtfully designed compartments, and are finished with top-notch details, like hardy zippers, reinforced stitching, and durable straps. 

“Conversely, low-quality bags may show a lack of attention to detail through fraying seams, flimsy zippers, low-quality materials, unstable structures that deform over time, or inferior organization,” Aurrichio says.

What type of weekender bag will never go out of style?

“Timeless weekender bags often feature classic and purpose-driven designs that transcend trends,” Aurrichio says. “Neutral colors, minimalist aesthetics, high-quality textures, and durable materials contribute significantly to a timeless design.” 

While it may sound counterintuitive, you should favor function over form: The best timeless weekender bags are durable, well-organized, and understated—versatile enough to carry on a range of trips.

How much do weekender bags typically cost?

You can find great weekender bags at every price point. Our favorites range from $51 to $350, with an average price of $218 and a median price of $192. Our experts say the best weekender bags are reliable, high quality, and long lasting, and it’s often worth spending extra to get something that will last. 

“It should last you a while, so spend a little bit more,” Myers says. Our favorite weekender bag, Bellroy’s Classic 45L Weekender , feels like an investment (but not a splurge) at just under $200.

This article was written by Lindsey Lanquist , a Real Simple contributing writer. To find the best weekender bags, we tested 31 bags in our lab, evaluating them for design, capacity, organization, portability, durability, and overall value. We also consulted four travel and luggage experts: Luigi Auricchio , vice president of design at Away, Angie Rice , co-founder of Boutique Travel Advisers, Jen Perrone , travel adviser at Jen Perrone Travel, and Lindsay Myers , lifestyle and travel expert.

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The 16 Best Travel Weekender Bags for Men & Women [2023]

Amar Hussain

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Keri Stooksbury

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Table of Contents

Things to consider with weekender bags, 8 best weekender bags for women, 8 best weekender bags for men, final thoughts.

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Weekender bags are ultimately designed for short trips. Because of this, it is vital that your weekender bag is large enough to store everything you need for a few days, but also small enough to be used as carry-on luggage .

With so many to choose from, there is no need to compromise on style when fulfilling the functional requirement of your weekend bag, and there are a ton of great looking weekend bags to enhance your style.

Make your weekender bag the piece of luggage you are always proud to hang off your arm, as well as being suitable for all your short trip needs.

Size and Capacity

Your weekender bag needs to be compact enough for you to use as carry-on luggage but also needs to be spacious enough to hold everything you need for your trip. The internal dimensions of the most popular weekender bags can differ, so it’s important that you choose a bag that fulfills your needs.

Most weekend bags offer a large main compartment, and additional storage in the form of internal pockets, external pouches, and even end compartments.

Bottom Line: Weekenders should fit comfortably in the trunk of your car or an overhead locker and should be lightweight and easy to carry.

You may not think the weight of your weekender is an issue, but the more lightweight the bag is to begin with, the more you can carry with you. Bags made from nylon and other modern synthetic materials tend to weigh less than their cotton or canvas counterparts , so keep this in mind before falling in love with a heavy retro-style bag.

While the weight of your bag is important, don’t be tempted to compromise on the construction of your new bag either. Finding a weekender bag that is both lightweight and durable is the perfect blend of form and function for the modern-day traveler.

Carry Options

Even if your chosen bag has carry handles, you may also want the versatility of a shoulder strap so you can easily swap and be hands-free while you’re on the go. The shoulder strap may be permanently attached, or it may be detachable. Either way, it could still be useful. You should also look at whether or not the strap is adjustable as different lengths suit different folks.

Hot Tip: If you are planning on using your weekender bag as an addition to a wheeled suitcase , the handles are a bonus as they can slide over the suitcase handle, making it easier for you to transport both at once.

When purchasing your weekender bag, you may wish to consider the handles and how well they suit your traveling needs. Some drop-down handles will be long enough to place over the shoulder, whereas other carry handles may be shorter and only suitable for carrying by hand.

If you’re planning on using the carry handles the majority of the time, then definitely look for ones that are rounded, or padded for a more comfortable carry.

Access, Pockets, and Organization

There are hundreds of different weekender bags out there to suit every style and budget. Each one will also offer varying amounts of compartments and pockets. Carefully consider what you need from your bag before you invest. Do you need to quickly access your travel documents, phone, and wallet from an easy access exterior pocket? Or, is a large main area for bulky items more important?

Bottom Line: Whether you need to keep your sports gear separate from your party outfit, or you are just looking to throw and go, there will always be a bag that has enough compartments. You just need to think about your style and your travel preference before buying.

Material and Durability

If you choose carefully, your weekender bag could be with you for many future adventures. For it to last a lifetime, the fabrics need to be sturdy enough to withstand the wear and tear of traveling. Look for durable materials like cotton, canvas, nylon, rubber, or synthetics, and don’t just be swayed by pretty patterns and trendy logos. The zippers, locks, and other fastenings should also be made of top-quality materials.

1. A Great-looking Bag That Will Take You Anywhere

Away Travel – The Everywhere Bag

Dimensions: 16.3 x 7.3 x 10.2 inches

This Away bag is available in a range of beautiful colors and is made from water-resistant fabrics, meaning it is extremely durable and can also be wiped clean both inside and out. Lightweight and good-looking, this bag has both carry handles and a detachable shoulder strap, giving you the option to switch between the 2.

The interior of this bag offers 6 pockets, a laptop pocket large enough for computers up to 15 inches, and a zippered umbrella pouch, giving you no excuse for not being organized on your next adventure. The compact size of this weekender means you can stow the bag under the seat on a flight  or easily set it in the trunk of your car.

There is also a hidden pocket to the exterior of this bag that is the perfect size for your cell phone and other valuable items that you need to keep close by.

This is the perfect weekender bag for anyone with a penchant for timeless classic design, and hard-wearing yet functional luggage.

What We Like

• Full wraparound zip for easy access

What We Don’t Like

• Quite heavy for a weekender bag

2. Beautifully Designed and Incredibly Functional

Jadyn b 22” women’s weekender duffel bag with shoe pocket.

Dimensions: 22 x 12 x 12 inches

This is the perfect duffel bag for those looking for a stylish yet practical bag for all of their weekend getaways . Available in a choice of 2 different designs, Geometric Gray or Gray Floral, this bag is made from durable, easy-to-clean fabric.

Inside the main storage section of the duffel, there are 3 separate mesh compartments as well as a large zippered pocket, meaning you can easily keep toiletries and makeup separate from your clothing. There is also a large side pocket that can house multiple pairs of shoes , so there’s no need to restrict the number of outfits you take on your next vacation, event, or excursion.

With 13-inch drop-down handles, this bag is ideal for you to carry on your shoulder, but there is also an adjustable shoulder strap included for extra comfort and shoulder support. There’s a front pocket allowing easy access to any small essential travel items needed on the journey itself.

At only 1.69 pounds in weight, this weekender duffel is a lightweight, functional bag for any short trips away.

• Shoe pocket for keeping items separate
• No padding on the handles

3. A High-quality Canvas Bag That Is Built To Last

Baosha hb-28 ladies canvas weekender with pu leather strap.

Dimensions: 16 x 12 x 8 inches

This is a stunning canvas holdall with a chic horizontal striped print, trimmed with tan PU leather handles, strap, and base. You can choose from a variety of different colors and designs to coordinate with your other luggage, making it an excellent choice for the stylish traveler.

The sleeve on the back of the bag allows you to slide the entire holdall over a standard rolling suitcase handle, or you can carry it on its own using either the carry handles or the detachable longer shoulder strap.

The smooth zipper technology opens to reveal a spacious interior with a central divider and a zipped pocket. There is an additional zipped pocket on the outside of the bag should you wish to access items separately from the main contents. The PU leather base gives the added benefit of a hard-wearing weekender suitable for placing down on any surface.

This high-quality canvas weekender bag is versatile enough to travel over a suitcase and be used as your main carry-on, and can also easily double up as a gym or beach bag .

• Luggage sleeve for attaching to a suitcase
• Doesn’t hold its structure when empty

4. A Classic Looking, High-quality Carry Bag

Ulgoo travel tote carry-on shoulder bag.

This is the ultimate multi-functional bag that offers plenty of class for travelers on the go. Made from soft canvas, this attractive shoulder bag comes in 8 designs (black, army green, black and white stripe, polka dot, square, grey, or leaf designs) all elegantly trimmed with tan PU leather carry handles and a detachable shoulder strap, with a classic buckle feature for adjusting the required length.

The base of the bag is not only also made from tan PU leather but has studs underneath, allowing you peace of mind that your bag is less likely to get grubby when traveling. The interior storage to the bag is 1 main large area with 2 side pockets for smaller items you wish to keep separate and close at hand. The carry handles will easily hang from a trolley hook or over the extending pull-along handle on your suitcase.

When traveling by plane, this compact weekender bag can easily be stowed under the seat in front of you, allowing you to keep your personal belongings with you throughout the flight.

• External and internal pockets to stay organized
• Shoulder strap is quite long

5. A Large Internal Area for Stashing Your Clothes on the Go

S-zone oversized canvas travel duffel bag.

Dimensions: 21.1 x 13.6 x 9.3 inches

This is an oversized duffel for whom a single large compartment is their main priority. Offering a fusion of individual styling and practicality, the bag is made from durable, anti-wrinkle canvas, and classically trimmed with PU leather.

There are 3 colors of canvas to choose from (black stripe, blue stripe, or zebra graphic design), and the holdall has 1 large main storage area for maximum capacity that can be used for bulky items without the inconvenience of dividers. There is also an internal zipped pocket that doesn’t dent interior dimensions but does offer a sneaky space for smaller items.

With easy-access zipped pockets on the exterior of the bag, you can keep your most valued and necessary possession close at hand. The PU leather trim is not only a striking design feature of this weekender bag but adds to the durability of the duffel.

Rounded and super-comfortable carry handles, heavy-duty zippers, and an adjustable-length shoulder strap make this an excellent choice for women on the go.

• Separate zippered shoe compartment at the bottom of the bag
• Materials make the bag quite heavy

6. Make a Statement With This Big, Bold Bag

Malirona canvas weekender bag.

Dimensions: 22 x 11.5 x 11.5 inches

Made from anti-wrinkle canvas and foldable for easy storage when not in use, this bag is available in 5 funky designs (black flower, flowers, noble girl, purple flower, and red flower). All of these design prints are unique to this range, and the funky designs will easily complement the rest of your luggage.

With a spacious interior main storage area, you can take up to 5 days’ worth of clothes, shoes, toiletries, and makeup all in 1 bag.

There are also a couple of internal pockets for your smaller essentials such as phone, keys, and travel wallets . This bag can be carried using the drop-down handles or the 47-inch detachable shoulder strap which can be adjusted to any length you desire. Also, the back of this bag has a suitcase handle strap, meaning it can also slide over an extended wheeled case handle for your convenience when traveling with extra luggage.

This is the perfect weekender for those who want to stand out from the crowd and made a bold fashion statement with their luggage.

• Fully collapsible to pack in your suitcase and for storing
• Main compartment opening is a little restrictive

7. The Best Bag for Business Travelers

Lily & drews carry on weekender overnight travel shoulder bag.

Dimensions: 15 x 12 x 7 inches

With timeless and elegant styling, this bag can be purchased in 2 colors (black or raspberry rose design) all of which are water-resistant fabric.

You can organize everything you need for your business trip by making use of the multiple pockets both inside and on the outside of this bag. This weekender bag includes a padded sleeve inside one of the interior compartments which are suitable for laptops up to 15.6 inches . The carry handles are comfortable for your travel, but if you prefer, there is a removable padded shoulder strap.

This 3-pound bag is made of stern stuff and will retain its shape even when empty. There is a suitcase handle sleeve to the back of this weekender, meaning you can slide it over a trolley handle should you be taking a suitcase on your travels with you.

This is a great bag for professionals that need to neatly and securely organize their belongings while on business trips.

• Padded compartment for up to a 15.6-inch laptop
• Zippers are not the most durable

8. Large Enough for the 2 of You

Ecosusi unisex large travel weekender bag.

Dimensions: 18.5 x 7.8 x 8.4 inches

With a unique square-based design, this bag can stand upright on its own, and its innovative looks make it stand out as a fashionable piece of luggage.

The water-repellent, wipe-clean, nylon fabric is durable and practical and available in 3 classic colors (red, beige, and black). At only 1.4 pounds, this weekender bag has double-top carry handles, an adjustable padded shoulder strap, and a suitcase sleeve to the back should you wish to slide it over a wheeled suitcase handle.

The luxurious elegance of this bag continues into the interior, which is fully lined with a rich brown material designed not to show any dirt or grubby stains. There is an additional pad inside the bag which is designed to protect your iPad or e-reader while you’re on the go.

This is a must-have travel bag for those who wish to blend classic styling with functionality whenever they travel.

• Stylish vegan leather trims
• Trolley sleeve is very tight

1. A Big-brand Bag for Bigger Adventures

Herschel novel duffle bag.

Dimensions: 11.75 x 20.5 x 11 inches

This weekender bag is designed with just the right amount of storage for short trips, and it even has a separate shoe pocket, so shoes are kept away from clean clothing. The 2-way waterproof zippers open to reveal a spacious main storage area with an internal sleeve.

The interior of the bag is beautifully lined with Herschel’s signature fabric liner , and the carry handles are reinforced for strength, durability, and comfort when carrying the bag by hand. There is also a detachable shoulder strap that is padded.

This bag is so versatile that it is perfect for weekend trips away or even the gym or sporting activities. With 21 different colors and prints to choose from in this range, there’s bound to be 1 that compliments your style. The compact sizing of this bag makes it suitable to use as your carry-on bag on airplane flights.

The ultimate weekender bag for those who demand high-quality products, this bag has classic styling, allowing it to be practical to use but always great looking when doing so.

• Spacious main compartment
• Handle buckles can squeak when walking

2. A Quality Canvas Bag With Plenty of Room for Everything

S-zone oversized canvas genuine leather trim travel duffel weekender bag .

Dimensions: 21.7 x 14.8 x 10.2 inches

Perfect for use as a carry-on bag for airplane journeys, as well as being perfectly suited to a weekend away or trips to the gym, this oversized canvas bag is available in 6 different colors (gray, khaki, dark gray, coffee, army green, or blue).

Made from soft and lightweight, waterproof, and tear-resistant canvas , the bag benefits from a genuine leather trim to give it a more upscale aesthetic. The zips and clips that keep the bag secure are made from solid zine-alloy and won’t rust easily, while the bag itself is roomy enough for you to pack everything you need for a few days away.

On the inside, there is a large single storage area but with a couple of zippered pockets to the side. The additional pockets make it easy for you to have quick and easy access to smaller essentials such as your wallet, phone, travel documents, and keys. This weekender bag helps keep your items more organized.

An oversized canvas duffel with a difference, this bag combines retro styling with modern-day durability.

• Soft and durable canvas material
• Zippers could be smoother

3. A Choice of 2 Beautiful Italian Travel Bags

Polare duffle full grain leather weekender travel bag.

Dimensions: 22.8 x 10.24 x 12.5 inches

This Italian-designed bag is practical and durable, while still being sophisticated and dignified in its appearance. Made from high-quality Italian cowhide full-grain leather with strong stitching , the bag has carry handles and shoulder straps to give you both carrying options when you are traveling.

The overall size and capacity of this weekender bag is ideal for any short getaways, be it city breaks or business trips. There are 2 colors to choose from in this range (dark brown and light brown), both of which are just under 6 pounds in weight.

The interior of the bag features a large storage area so you can keep all your clothes, shoes, and other essentials in 1 place. There is also a laptop-sized pouch to one side of the interior, meaning your laptop or iPad is neatly separated and protected while traveling.

This travel bag is designed for those who want to add a touch of elegance to their luggage.

• Comfortable carrying handles and shoulder strap
• Quite heavy for a duffel bag

4. The Perfect Weekend Bag for the Discerning Gentleman

Cenzo duffle vecchio brown leather weekender travel bag.

Dimensions: 11 x 10 x 21 inches

Handmade in Italy using beautiful full-grain calfskin leather, the rich deep colors start to look even better when they age. The overall finish of the leather is semi-gloss, which is ideal to prevent staining, and the high-quality brass hardware adds an even more upscale feel to this bag.

For easy access, the zippers open floor-to-floor and help make packing a dream and finding your items incredibly easy. The inside of the bag is also fully lined with a hard-wearing canvas which not only looks distinctively classic, but is also strong, durable, and easy to clean.

For your convenience, you can easily switch between the carry handles or the shoulder strap when traveling. The shoulder strap is removable and adjustable to suit different heights using the classic buckle fastening, and the soft leather is strong enough to keep your belongings safe and protected on the go.

A weekend bag designed with the discerning gentleman in mind, these weekender bags are imported from Florence, Italy, and are a real hit.

• Brass zippers and buckles
• Can smell unpleasant initially and may require airing out

5. Keep Your Shoes and Clothes Separate With This Clever Weekender

Marsbro water resistant sports gym travel weekender duffel bag.

Dimensions: 19.7 x 9.8 x 9.3 inches

With its casual styling and 6 different colors for you to choose from (black, grey, pink, Tiffany blue, black/blue, and black/rose) this bag has a classic, almost retro look and feel that is reminiscent of duffel bags of the 1970s.

The bag is made from water-resistant fabric, which will keep your gear safe and sound as well as be easy to clean. You have the option of using the bag as a handheld holdall using the dual carry handles or going completely hands-free with the adjustable and well-cushioned shoulder strap for a more relaxed carrying option.

There is also a separate shoe compartment built into the bag , meaning you can keep your dirty shoes away from clean clothing. The shoe compartment also has cleverly designed air holes to allow your shoes to receive ventilation while they are being stored for travel.

This practical and durable weekend duffel bag is a must-have for any man about to embark on a few days away. The perfect size for your airplane carry-on bag it also works just as well as a gym bag when you get back home.

• Wet pocket to keep dirty clothing or toiletries separate
• Shoulder strap is not detachable

6. A Duffel Back for Weekends Away

Canway 65l travel duffel bag.

Dimensions: 26.3 x 13.7 x 12.2 inches

Made from water-resistant 600D polyester fabric, this duffel bag comes in an array of muted and vibrant colors that will match any existing luggage selections.

The bag is made up of 1 main compartment for the bulk of your clothing and 6 other perfectly designed pockets, all of which will suit your varying travel needs. There’s a side shoe compartment that can be used to keep your shoes or dirty clothes separate from the rest, and the 2 air vents on this compartment will ensure nothing gets too smelly throughout your trip.

There is a side elastic pouch to keep items organized and separated and a front zipper compartment that provides easy access to your passport, phone, and other travel essentials .

Lightweight, durable, and incredibly well-made, this weekender bag is the ideal size to use as carry-on luggage. For your convenience, the bag can be carried using the carry handles or the comfortable, adjustable shoulder strap.

This is a sturdy, adaptable bit of luggage that will be just as useful on a weekend break as it would be in the gym, or as an extra bag for your vacation.

• Variety of stylish colors such as Aegean Blue and Brick Red
• No bottom cushioning to protect your gear

7. Upscale Leather Weekend Bag That Oozes Style and Quality

Leathario mens genuine leather overnight travel  duffel.

Dimensions: 19.69 x 9.45 x 12.2 inches

This 100% leather weekend travel bag is a stylish choice for the man about town. With multi-functional compartments, you can pack like a pro using the wide range of pockets and pouches this bag has to offer. Arrive at your destination with everything organized and easy to find, and keep your dirty clothing separate on your return journey.

Available in 2 different sizes and 2 different colors (black or brown), the naked leather has been oiled to ensure that it has a supersmooth finish while retaining a luxurious and natural look to the leather.

These bags offer a spacious main storage area for clothing, an inner laptop pocket, an internal iPad pocket, and 3 smaller interior pouches for travel essentials such as your mobile phone, wallet, and keys.

With smooth-opening zippers and high-end buckles and hardware, this really is a gorgeous piece of luggage. On the inside, the main compartment is incredibly spacious with additional features like magnetic buttons.

With more than enough room to comfortably carry enough of your clothing, shoes, and toiletries to last for a few days away, this is an excellent travel duffel that looks as good as it feels.

• Lots of internal pockets

8. A Duffel Bag That Can Be Carried Like a Backpack

Baosha hb-26 3-ways vintage canvas mens holdall backpack.

Dimensions: 18.9 x 11 x 10.2 inches

This clever weekender bag can be carried on your back like a backpack , held like a holdall, or slung across your body using the adjustable shoulder strap. The 3-way multi-purpose design sets this weekender apart from the other weekenders in this list. Versatile, practical, and incredibly comfortable, you can keep your belongings safe with you at all times.

Made from top-quality, hard-wearing canvas with PU leather straps and trim, this bag has a beautiful vintage, rustic look that belies its incredibly practical interior. With a choice of 4 smart colors (grey, coffee, blue, or black) on offer, you can find the perfect color combination to match your style. The timeless design means it will never go out of fashion.

With a generous internal capacity and a variety of separate compartments for packing and organizing, this bag is perfect for all kinds of short trips and excursions. It has the right dimensions to be used as an airplane carry-on , gym bag, sports bag, beach bag, and even on your daily commute.

• Multiple options for carrying
• Side access only to the main compartment

Whether you’re off on a short business trip, a glamorous city break, or a romantic countryside retreat, there will always be the perfect weekender bag just for you.

You can find stylish-looking bags that come complete with tons of useable space to provide you with versatile options for storage, organization, and carrying. Purchasing a durable weekender bag could be your best investment yet when it comes to heading out for your next short-term adventure.

Don’t stop at a weekender bag — check out these other related travel products you should consider to up your travel game!

• The Best Travel Duffel Bags on the Market
• The Best Travel Backpacks for Men & Women
• The Best Travel Dopp Kits For Men [Waterproof, Modern, Vintage & More]
• All Our Best Travel Product Reviews – In One Place

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a weekender bag.

As the name suggests, a weekender bag is a type of luggage that offers the perfect size and storage for a long weekend away.

Is a weekender bag considered a carry-on?

Each airline has specific rules and requirements about carry-on luggage. That said, a weekender bag should only be big enough to fit clothes and essentials for a weekend, and depending on the dimensions of your bag, it should be carry-on size.

How big is a weekender bag?

Weekender bags come in all shapes and sizes from tote style to duffel bags. While the dimensions may vary, as a rough rule of thumb most weekender bags will have a capacity of 20- to 40-liters.

Do I need a weekender bag?

Weekender bags are ultimately designed for short trips. Because of this, it is vital that your weekender bag is large enough to store everything you need for a few days, but also small enough to be used as carry-on luggage.

What's the difference between a weekender and duffle bag?

A weekender bag is another name for a duffel bag that is the perfect size for a weekend away. With so many to choose from, there is no need to compromise on style when fulfilling the functional requirement of your weekend bag, and there are a ton of great looking weekend bags to enhance your style.

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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

By Madison Flager and Meaghan Kenny

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

How we tested:

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

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

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

MZ Wallace Nik Duffel

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

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

Calpak Luka duffel

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

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

Read a full review of this bag here .

July Carry All Weekender Plus

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

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

Monos Metro Duffel

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

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

Béis The Weekender Bag

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

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

Patagonia Black Hole Duffel Bag 70L

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

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

Paravel Weekender

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

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

Paravel Fold-Up Bag

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

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

Herschel Supply Co. Tech Novel duffel

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

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

Lo & Sons The Catalina Deluxe

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

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

Lululemon City Adventurer large duffel bag

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

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

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

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

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

Everlane The ReNew Transit weekender

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

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

Dagne Dover Landon Carryall

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

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

Arlo Skye The Weekender

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

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

Rothy’s The Weekender

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

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

Away The Large Everywhere Bag

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

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

Louis Vuitton Keepall 55

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

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

REI Co-op Big Haul 60 Recycled Duffel

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

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

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• 13 Best Carry-On Weekender Bags
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As much as we’d all love to be jetting off on luxurious vacations for a week or even more at a time, most people don’t have the time for more than one or 2 major getaways a year. And with everything that’s happening in the world, it’s almost impossible to do that. But do you know what we can do? Weekend getaways! Because you’re only going to be vacationing for not more than 48 hours, the last thing you want is to overpack. Enter the unsung hero of every traveler’s luggage collection, the weekender bag. A weekender bag is exactly what it says, it’s a bag that’s sized for a weekend getaway. It’s not too big nor too small, and it can accommodate most of your traveling essentials safely. Looking for the best carry on weekender bag that you can easily carry around? Then keep reading!

How To Choose The Best Carry-On Weekender Bags

Aside from having the best scarf with a pocket for your weekend getaway, you should have a great weekender bag. But how do you exactly choose the best one? Read this guide to know how to do it!

Compartments

Choosing the best carry on weekender bag is like choosing the best tennis bag for sale , you have to consider the number of compartments. Imagine having a spacious weekender bag to discover that it has swallowed your toothbrush into its internal depths. Sounds irritating right? This is why you need compartments. The best carry on weekender bag should have small, hidden pockets for your spectacles, keys, passport, and other small stuff.

When on vacation, chances are you’re going to have your carry on weekender bag on you at all times. This means it’s important that your bag isn’t clunky or difficult to carry. Make sure to buy a model that can be stashed easily on the back of a motorbike or into the overhead compartment of a plane. But don’t get the one that’s too small that it can’t store your belongings!

The worst thing that could happen when you’re on a trip is if it falls apart the second time you use it. So, invest in a bag that’s made of strong material like leather. They may be more expensive, but if you have the money, don’t hesitate! If you’re on a budget, materials like canvas are also pretty durable.

We know, looks aren’t the first priority when searching for the best carry on weekender bag. However, there’s no point in traveling without style! Considering your weekender bag is a long-term investment (unless you’re a collector), we suggest picking something that’s not dictated by trends or fast fashion. For example, you can opt for leather bags that have long-lasting glamour and charm.

What is a good size for a weekend bag?

In general, weekender bags with a capacity of about 30-50L are enough for a weekend trip. But if you plan to bring tons of stuff with you, you can choose the one that has a capacity of 75L instead.

What’s the difference between a weekender and a duffel bag?

A weekender bag is basically a duffel bag that’s designed for use on trips that are a few days long, such as a weekend getaway. Besides having space for a longer trip, a weekender bag can also be considered a versatile piece of luggage.

TUMI Alpha 3 Double Expansion Duffel Bag

If you’re a frequent traveler during the weekend for work or play, or even both, the TUMI Alpha 3 Double Expansion Duffel Bag is definitely a solid investment. This amazing carry on weekender bag is made out of ballistic nylon, meaning it’s super durable, which is key, especially if it’s used very often. Plus, this bag has all the perfect nooks and crannies to stash your belongings.

Besides that, we also appreciate the front U-zip pockets that allow you to quickly and easily access some of your small items. Another feature that we like is the amazing shoulder strap that can keep the bag from sliding off your shoulder as you move. Best of all, there’s the TUMI tracer, an exclusive program that helps reunite you with your lost or stolen items.

What We Love

A very durable option for those who often have a short trip.

• Very durable
• U-zip pockets
• Comfortable shoulder strap
• TUMI Tracer technology
• Modern design

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Kenneth Cole Reaction Port Stanley Vegan Leather Duffel Bag

If you’re trying to save money and need a reliable carry on weekender bag that’s also stylish, consider getting the Kenneth Cole Reaction Port Stanley Vegan Leather Duffel Bag . We’re serious when we say that this bag checks all the right boxes. It’s very easy to carry around, and it comes with an adjustable shoulder strap that’s also really comfortable.

What’s better is that this carry on weekender bag is can be stacked on top of a wheeling suitcase. When it comes to storage, it’s not lacking either. The main compartment is far from small and includes a zippered pocket as well as 2 open slip pockets, leaving plenty of room to hold and organize all needed belongings.

A stylish and affordable carry on weekender bag that’ll neatly store all your belongings.

• Affordable price
• Very easy to carry around
• Adjustable shoulder strap
• Can be stacked on top of a wheeling suitcase
• Spacious main compartment
• The faux leather isn’t the most durable material

Bric’s Folding Duffle Bag

Are you looking for a versatile bag that’s perfect for weekends and business trips alike? If so, then you’d definitely love Bric’s Folding Duffle Bag ! Made with water-resistant materials, it’s a high-quality carry on weekender bag that can handle any weather. It even comes with a removable pouch that can accommodate your smaller accessories.

Seen by many as the best carry on weekender bag, it can also seamlessly be stacked on a wheeled bag for longer trips so you don’t have to spend so much energy carrying it around. Similar to other options on this list, it features a removable shoulder strap too. Lastly, it’s available in 3 different colors, which are black, ocean blue, and olive.

It’s a great folding duffle bag with a removable pouch that can be used as a separate cross-body bag.

• Comes with a removable pouch
• Removable shoulder strap
• Can be stacked on a wheeled bag
• Can withstand any weather
• Available in 3 neutral colors
• It lacks extra pockets

Amazon Basics Travel Duffel Bag

If you’re really on a tight budget and just want a carry on weekender bag that does its job well, then the Amazon Basics Travel Duffel Bag is the bag to buy. This is by far the cheapest option we have on this list. By just spending less than 20USD, you can already own this carry on weekender bag. But don’t underestimate this product just because it’s cheap!

This weekender bag is relatively basic in its design, but given the bargain price point, we have nothing to complain about. It also has many different storage compartments, so you don’t have to worry about not having enough space. We also like the durable zipper closure as it’s super easy to use. Another thing that you should note is that it’s not machine washable!

The cheapest carry on weekender bag on this list that’ll always get the job done.

• Extremely cheap
• Plenty of compartments
• Durable zipper closure
• Lightweight yet durable
• 50lbs weight capacity
• Not machine washable

Fred Perry Men’s Classic Barrel Bag

On the hunt for the best carry on weekender bag that offers a unique flair? Then the Fred Perry Men’s Classic Barrel Bag is the perfect option for you! The style of this bag can be categorized as preppy meets sporty, which is pretty unique, and its barrel shape gives it a little bit of a vintage look. It’s the perfect pick to fit a few of your essentials along with some extras.

On top of that, we really like how it’s super easy to clean. That’s because it’s made out of a faux leather material that’s also very durable. There’s also a slip pocket on the outside, zip compartments at each end, and a large main compartment. You can carry this carry on weekender bag by its handle or use its removable cross-body strap.

An attractive yet practical carry on weekender bag that can store all of your essentials safely.

• Very eye-catching
• Plenty of storage
• Available in many color combinations
• Easy to clean
• Removable cross-body strap
• Might be too small for some

Marmot Long Hauler Travel Duffel Bag

The Marmot Long Hauler Travel Duffel Bag is a durable yet lightweight carry on weekender bag that features all the storage and carrying options that you look for in a duffel bag like this. It’s a reliable and simple workhorse that you can always use whenever you have a weekend trip. When you’re not traveling, you can also use it as a gym bag!

What many people love about this bag is that it comes in many sizes. From 35L to 105L, everyone will be able to find a model that suits their needs. On top of that, there are many stunning colors to choose from! Weighing only 3.1lbs, it’s super lightweight and it can keep plenty of things inside. Of course, there are many internal and external pockets that you can use as well.

A versatile and durable option that doesn’t break your bank.

• Durable yet lightweight
• Plenty of pockets
• Available in many sizes and colors
• Comfortable shoulder straps
• It lacks padding along the bottom for more protection

Patagonia Black Hole 55L Duffel Bag

This carry on weekender bag right here fully lives up to its name, as the number of things it can hold seems to be infinite! The Patagonia Black Hole 55L Duffel Bags is loved by many, and perhaps one of the biggest reasons is because it’s made from a 100% recyclable material. Although it doesn’t really sound special in the 21 st century, it’s still considered to be a rare find, especially since the bag still retains a premium quality and has a wide array of colors.

Furthermore, the sturdy built of this bag is proved by the 900D Ripstop Nylon that incorporates a durable water repellent coating. That way, this bag will keep the moisture away even if it’s raining. Another thing that you’ll definitely appreciate is the fact that it comes with removable straps that allow you to carry the bag in various ways. With everything it brings to the table, no wonder it’s considered the best carry on weekender bag by many.

An all-around item for you to carry for your weekend getaway without sacrificing comfort and features.

• 100% recyclable
• Removable straps
• Water repellent coating
• Available in many colors
• Can fit into its own pocket for an easy storage
• Doesn’t have a rigid structure

Komal’s Passion Leather Weekender Bag

Leather bag lovers should definitely get themselves the Komal’s Passion Leather Weekender Bag . Made from 100% full-grain leather, it comes in a brown color that exudes timeless elegance. Aside from that, this carry on weekender bag also features 2 handy side pockets where you can store your shoes and other accessories.

Of course, the main compartment is very spacious and you can store plenty of clothes there. What makes this bag so special is the fact that it’s designed by expert artisans, so it’s pretty hard to find any other piece of bag that’ll give you this much bang for your buck. You should also know that this weekender bag comes with YKK zippers, which are arguably the best in the world right now.  

Arguably the best leather weekender bag on the market right now.

• Full-grain leather
• Plenty of pockets for extra storage
• Huge main compartment
• Designed by expert artisans
• High-quality YKK zippers
• The design might look too old for some people

Newshows Canvas Travel Duffel Bag

The Newshows Canvas Travel Duffel Bag is another handsome selection that we have on this list. Thanks to its 46L capacity, this carry on weekend bag has more than enough room to carry a weekend’s worth of clothing. The main compartment also comes with an inner zipper pocket and 2 slip pockets that can store your phone and passport.

Furthermore, there are 5 metal rivets on the bottom of this bag that can keep it from getting scuffed on the floor. Available in green, gray, and khaki, this bag has a great combination of style and functionality that everyone will definitely appreciate. Costing you not more than 40USD, you’ll be surprised by just how good this bag actually is.

An ideal option for those looking for a canvas bag that can store all of their weekend essentials well.

• Durable canvas material
• 5 metal rivets on the bottom
• Available in 3 different neutral colors
• Very affordable
• Not suitable for long trips

Kenneth Cole Reaction Colombian Leather Duffel

The Kenneth Cole Reaction Colombian Leather Duffel is a high-quality bag that’s specifically designed for weekend getaways. It’s made of genuine leather and looks very cool, allowing you to travel in style. But that’s not the only purpose this bag has. Whether it’s a trip to the gym or a trip to a nearby country, you can always rely on this carry on weekender bag!

Considered as the best carry on weekender bag, this product has got everything you’d ever need for a comfortable trip. From removable shoulder straps, D-shaped opening, and smooth zippers, you name it! We also like that it has tons of pockets that can store some of your smaller items. Best of all, there’s a large side pocket that’s perfect for shoes.

A stylish weekender bag made from genuine leather that’s very durable.

• Made of genuine leather
• Removable shoulder straps
• Dedicated pocket for shoes
• Smooth zippers
• Huge opening
• Can’t withstand harsh weather

Peak Design Travel Duffel 35L

Those who desire a tough, versatile carry on weekender bag should definitely take a look at the Peak Design Travel Duffel 35L . Wrapped in 100% recycled 400D nylon canvas and adorned with aluminum hardware, this bag isn’t only good-looking but also lightweight, weatherproof, and insanely practical. Aside from being a weekender bag, you can also use this item as an overnighter, a gym bag, or even a carry-on for longer trips.

What sets this cabin-sized weekender bag from other competitors is its smart design. With a wide opening main compartment for easy packing and unpacking as well as the right amount of pockets inside and out, this bag fits in almost any situation. Conceived with comfort and portability in mind, it also comes with a melange of straps, all padded and removable. They allow you to carry this bag by hand, over the shoulder, or like a backpack.

A versatile and well-made carry on weekender bag with tons of storage space.

• Tough and durable construction
• Very versatile
• Plenty of pockets for storage
• Wide opening
• Lifetime guarantee
• Unzipping is quite hard with only one hand

The North Face Base Camp Duffel Bag

Just by reading its name, you’ll know what kind of bag you’re getting. Besides producing top-quality garment bags and vinyl bags , it also makes a great weekender bag. The North Face Base Camp Duffel Bag is no cookie-cutter carry on weekender bag. In fact, many people, especially outdoor enthusiasts, see it as the best carry on weekender bag. First, you should know that this bag comes in a variety of sizes, starting from 31L up to 132L.

The simple cylindrical design and minimal trims give this amazing bag a classic look that’ll surely never go out of style. While the thick nylon material takes a while to get used to since it’s quite hard to expand, this also means that it’s super strong and durable. Thus, it can protect some of your more fragile belongings. Meanwhile, the wide entrance allows you to access every inch of your bag, making packing and retrieving items from it easier than ever. Of course, the main compartment is super spacious and you can basically pack everything you may need during your trip.

A well-built and popular carry on weekender bag that’s made to last.

• Sturdy and durable
• Available in many sizes
• Has a classic look that never goes out of style
• Very spacious
• Wide entrance
• Detachable and adjustable straps
• Takes a while to get used to the thick nylon material

Herschel Novel Duffel Bag

You can never go wrong with the Herschel Novel Duffel Bag . As the best carry on weekender bag, this product has been used by thousands of people and is known for its high-quality construction. It features a design that resembles a typical Herschel bag. It’s not too fancy but timeless and can suit any style easily.

Apart from that, it also has leather carrying straps that add an elevated touch to the otherwise laid-back piece of luggage. Although it’s not as big as other competitors, we’re honestly really surprised that it can actually store plenty of things inside. Not to mention, you can slide your kicks into the separate shoe compartment to keep your garbs clean and dirt-free.

With a timeless design, this popular carry on weekender bag has all the features that you’ll ever need.

• Timeless design
• Durable construction
• Leather carrying strap
• Separate shoe compartment
• Available in 9 different colors
• Easy to wash
• Compact and lightweight
• Not suitable for long trips as it has a compact size

Author:  Emma Landa

I'm a traveler with a thirst for adventure and a passion for style. From the runways of Paris to the boutiques of Milan, I've traveled the world in search of the most glamorous and exclusive fashion experiences. I love nothing more than indulging in the latest designer collections and discovering hidden gems in the world of fashion. I've explored the streets of Tokyo, discovering unique and avant-garde styles that are pushing the boundaries of fashion. And in New York, I've attended the most exclusive fashion shows, rubbing shoulders with the industry's elite. But fashion isn't the only thing that I indulge in. I've also stayed in some of the most luxurious hotels and properties around the world. From the stunning resorts in Bali to the opulent villas in Tuscany, I know how to travel in style and comfort. Sharing my experiences and insights with others is something that I'm passionate about. Through my social media channels, I offer a glimpse into the world of luxury fashion and travel, inspiring others to explore the world of high-end fashion and indulge in the finer things in life. So, come along with me on my journey and let me show you the world of luxury fashion and travel like you've never seen it before!

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

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

• How We Chose

The Best Weekender Bags

Meet the experts.

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

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

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

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

How We Chose the Best Weekender Bags

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

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

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

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

Con: Some colors can sell out

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cons: Over $200.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cons: Only has one large interior pocket. 

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

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

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

Cons : Better for overnight or two-day trips.  

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

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

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

Cons: Costs more than $200. 

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

What Is a Weekender Bag?

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

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

How to Pack a Weekender Bag

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

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

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

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

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

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

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The Best Carry-On Luggage and Weekender Bags for Summer Travel: Shop Away, Samsonite, Monos and More

The right luggage or carry-on bag can help make summer travel as smooth as possible.

If you're gearing up for your summer travel plans, you may be searching for the perfect luggage to accompany you on your upcoming getaway.  Carry-on luggage  — including weekender bags and spinners — is probably the best way to travel if you want to beat the lines at busy airports, especially if you're traveling on a Friday.

No matter where your travel destinations are, one thing's for sure: the right luggage will make all the difference. We've found the best luggage to shop for all of your travels, from spacious duffle bags and practical backpacks to large and luxurious carry-ons  for your next flight.

Need a new tote bag to toss everything in for an upcoming July 4th weekend getaway or a bigger carry-on for a tropical vacation? The Beis Weekender Bag will fit all your essentials and help you travel in style. Need a new go-to suitcase for every travel situation? Away’s  standard carry-on traveler bag has plenty of packing space while still fitting in the overhead bin. Trying to avoid the checked baggage fees and long bag drop line? The Samsonite Underseat Carry-On Luggage helps you save money and time by going straight to TSA.

Below, we've rounded up the best carry-on luggage and weekender bags this year to take along on your summer trip .

The Best Carry-On Suitcases for 2024

Samsonite freeform carry-on spinner.

Not only is the Samsonite Hardside Spinner perfectly sized and extremely durable, it's also incredible lightweight so you won't have to strain putting it in the overhead airplane compartment. With all kinds of pockets, you can easily organize all your belongings confidently. 

$200   $140

Away The Carry-On

This Away bag boasts flashy features such as a durable polycarbonate hard shell, spinner wheels and a TSA-approved, ejectable USB charger. The classic rolling hardside luggage with a retractable handle is designed to fit in most major airlines' overhead compartments, making it a great go-to Carry-On bag for travel, regardless of your destination.

Rockland Melbourne Hardside Expandable Spinner Wheel Luggage

This Rockland Melbourne Spinner Luggage makes traveling easier by being extremely lightweight. While protecting your items, the wheels rotate 360 degrees for a smooth and seamless stride in the airport. Although it is compact, this carry-on luggage has the ability to hold everything you need for a short vacation.

Take OFF Luggage Personal Item Suitcase 2.0

The perfect-sized luggage that doubles as a personal item — just pop off the wheels and slide it under your seat. 

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage

This Travelpro Maxlite softside luggage has spinner wheels and is lightweight, making it easy to maneuver airport terminals and your flight's overhead storage bins. 

$170   $127

With Coupon

Samsonite Underseat Carry-On Spinner with USB Port

Compact and convenient, this soft-sided luggage can slide smoothly under the seat in front of you or be tucked away in an overhead bin. The bag's main compartment can fit several outfits and a spare pair of shoes. Interior pockets lining the compartment will keep your toiletries organized. The telescoping handle and rolling wheels make this bag easy to navigate around a crowded airport, making it a great choice for the frequent flyer looking to pack light.

$145   $100

Monos Carry-On

Traveling is a breeze with the minimalist Monos carry-on, designed to fit in the overheard bin of almost any flight.

Travelpro Platinum Elite Hardside Expandable Spinner

Travelpro is a pilot-founded brand that you've likely seen used by flight crews. Travel stress-free with the Travelpro hardside carry-on luggage that effortlessly fits in the overhead bins of major domestic airlines, thanks to rigorous sizer bin testing and enhanced packing capacity. The PrecisionGlide System delivers impeccable control and a seamless rolling experience, so you can get through the airport with ease.

$370   $314

The Best Travel Backpacks and Totes for 2024

Béis travel tote.

The Beis Travel Tote, from Shay Mitchell's baggage line, can conveniently slot into place atop a suitcase with its trolley sleeve, but can also be carried on its own with a detachable shoulder strap, and top handles designed to rest comfortably on your shoulder. This bag boasts a bottom zip shoe compartment, padded tech sleeve and multiple exterior and interior pockets. 

Samsonite Detour Travel Backpack

Built to protect your belongings from the elements, the Detour Travel Backpack has enough capacity for your business, overnight or weekend trips.

$150   $112

Cuyana Classic Easy Tote

This sleek tote is made of Italian leather and comes in a bunch of color options. You can choose from three sizes and whether to include a top zipper.

Calpak Luka Backpack

With multiple storage compartments including a separate laptop sleeve and a space to store your shoes that has its own exterior access, this lightweight Luka backpack will help you stay organized on the go.

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack

This travel backpack comes with a weight-distributing, low-profile harness system and a 35L capacity, making it suitable for carry-on use. It is designed with a full-wrap zipper opening on the main compartment, along with large and subdivided zippered mesh compartments on the sides, providing convenient packing options. Additionally, its attractive design ensures you can easily identify your bag wherever you go.

Troubadour Featherweight Tote

A modern classic and easy-access bag. This Featherweight Tote features a light and waterproof fabric with vegan leather handles, and is perfect for gym trips or a day out!

The Best Weekender Bags for 2024 

Dagne dover landon carryall bag.

For weekends away, this extra-large duffle includes a laptop sleeve, shoe bag and plenty of space for all your essentials.

lululemon Go Getter Bag 2.0

This sleek, modern bag looks like a tote and duffel rolled into one. There's also a little strap in the back that you can attach to your luggage. 

Away The Everywhere Bag

Away Travel's The Everywhere Bag lives up to its name: you can take it everywhere from work to the gym to a weekend away. It also pairs nicely with The Carry-On and The Bigger Carry-On.

Calpak Stevyn Duffel

Enjoy the benefits of a large bottom compartment, ideal for stowing shoes or enhancing the organization of your items.The roomy main compartment comes with interior pockets, ensuring you have plenty of space to store your belongings in a well-arranged manner.

SwissGear Apex Travel Duffle Bag

This duffle bag will come in handy during your next vacation. You can wear it multiple ways and it has reinforced sides to keep your belonging secure.

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The 13 best carry-on backpacks of 2024, tested & reviewed.

Enjoy hands-free travel with a versatile carry-on backpack.

The Best Carry-on Backpacks

Leilani Osmundson | U.S. News

Not sure whether to take a rolling suitcase or a travel backpack on the plane? Both types of carry-on luggage certainly have their merits, but if you like keeping your arms and hands free when traveling, a backpack is the right choice for you. Furthermore, compared to a hard-sided suitcase , it's easier to squeeze a malleable backpack into an overhead bin or under the seat. And if your vacation is focused on adventure travel, you might value a durable pack on your back over wheels on the ground.

U.S. News compiled this list from extensive research and testing along with consumer reviews. Whatever your reason for choosing a backpack, there are plenty on the market to satisfy your needs. Read on for the best carry-on travel backpacks.

Best Overall: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack

• Jump to features and expert insights ↓

Best Budget: ZOMAKE Ultra Lightweight Hiking Backpack 20L

Best lightweight: mz wallace metro utility backpack.

• Best for Business Travel (tie): Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Backpack – Large
• Best for Business Travel (tie): Aer Travel Pack 3

Best for International Travel: Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Pack

Best for weekend getaways: solo grand travel tsa backpack, best for women: tumi voyageur celina backpack, best for men: peak design travel backpack 45l, best for adventure travel: kelty redwing 36, best with wheels: samsonite tectonic nutech wheeled backpack, best organization: augustnoa classic noa, best leather: monos metro backpack in vegan leather.

(Note: Prices and availability were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to demand and other factors. Dimensions of backpacks are height by width by depth.)

Price: $200 or less

When it comes to bag travel, the Cotopaxi Allpa packs a serious punch. The carry-on backpack is available in three sizes – 42L, 35L and 28L – and a variety of colors, including the vibrant multicolor Del Día style. The 35L size not only fits everything you need for your next getaway, but it's also TSA-compliant as a carry-on item . On the outside, the Allpa features a removable waist belt, a padded laptop sleeve on the side, anti-theft zippers, carabiner lash loops for extra gear, a sternum strap and a front zippered pocket. The backpack straps can be tucked away if you're looking to save more room in the overhead bin or you want to carry the bag via its grab handles.

The bag opens suitcase-style; inside, you'll find one large zippered mesh compartment on the right and a subdivided zippered mesh compartment on the left, providing ample space for all your clothes, shoes and accessories. What's more, the bag comes with a rain cover (though it's already water-resistant).

What our editors say:

I've taken my Cotopaxi Allpa on countless adventures, from a road trip around Iceland to camping all over Colorado. It fits more than expected, is comfortable to wear (especially if using the waist belt) and is extremely durable. I just wish the 35L had an exterior water bottle pocket like the 42L does! – Leilani Osmundson, Senior Digital Producer

Erin Evans | U.S. News

Price: $15.99 or less

This backpack has three excellent things going for it: It's affordable, lightweight and durable. It's a great option for a weekend getaway bag and is an excellent little backpack to have on hand for tours and day trips once you make it to your destination. If you're planning to hike or kayak on your next getaway, you'll definitely want to have the ZOMAKE Ultra Lightweight Backpack in your back pocket – literally. It can be folded into a compact pouch and tucked away in a larger carry-on bag if you're planning to only use it as a daypack.

The lightweight travel bag is both tear- and water-resistant. With all of its pockets – including one on each side for water bottles or umbrellas – you'll be able to fit everything you need for an adventure-filled trip.

It can fit enough for a weekend trip, plus it's super useful for hiking, boat excursions and more once you're in your destination because it's so light and water-resistant. I've used it for years and it has held up incredibly well; it comes in so many fun colors, too. I love it so much, I bought two so my husband has one he can use as well. – Erin Evans, Managing Editor

Rachael Hood | U.S. News

Price: $345 or less

Constructed with recycled bluesign-approved quilted nylon, this chic bag is packed with pockets and organizational details. The interior has a padded 15-inch laptop sleeve, a large zip pocket with two slip pockets, two water bottle pockets and two removable pouches. On the front of the bag there's a deep phone pocket and multiple zippered pockets of various sizes, including a small one that's ideal for a boarding pass, earbuds or wipes.

A water bottle pocket sits on each side of the bag, and the back of the bag has a luggage trolley sleeve that can be zipped shut on the bottom to be a pocket when not attached to your suitcase. This backpack has a top-zip design, and can be carried by the two top handles or the adjustable padded backpack straps.

This bag has completely changed my mind about backpacks. It's extremely spacious and works so well for my laptop, change of clothes, toiletry bag and other carry-on essentials. I love all of the pockets and that I can carry this like a north-south tote in addition to using the trolley sleeve or backpack straps. But what truly sets this apart is the beautiful fabrication that is so soft and the luxurious Italian leather details. – Rachael Hood, Senior Editor

Best for Business Travel: Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Backpack and Aer Travel Pack 3 (tie)

Dagne dover dakota neoprene backpack – large.

Catriona Kendall | U.S. News

Price: $215 or less

This sleek, professional backpack by Dagne Dover is perfect for professional and casual settings alike, with a vast array of organizational features and a 20-liter capacity for the large size. On the outside, you'll find a zippered padded pocket for up to 16-inch laptops and a slip pocket for your phone, while an interior sleeve can fit a tablet or a second laptop, allowing you to travel with multiple devices. The inside of the bag has two mesh slip pockets and a zip-top pouch attached with a leash, as well as three zippered pockets in the front panel.

To help you stay even more organized, the exterior also features a zippered front pocket with pen loops and a key clip; two zippered side pockets; two slip side pockets; and straps to secure a small bottle. The water-resistant bag comes with adjustable shoulder straps, a luggage sleeve and a separate shoe bag.

I adore bringing this bag to work and using it as a personal item on flights. I don't think I've ever used a backpack with better organization than this one – there's a dedicated place for every little thing, from keys to pens to my devices. I also love that the neoprene material is extremely lightweight and water-resistant. – Catriona Kendall, Editor

Aer Travel Pack 3

Price: $249 or less

With a pocket for everything, the clamshell-style Aer Travel Pack 3 keeps you organized to the max on business trips. Keep your laptop (up to 16 inches) safe in the padded, zippered laptop sleeve, and stow your passport in the quick-access side pocket. The front compartment features several sizes of pockets perfect for chargers, notepads, pens and more. Along with the lay-flat main compartment for clothes, there's also an interior pocket for small accessories as well as a hidden luggage tracker pocket.

Designed for one-bag travel, the durable Aer Travel Pack 3 also features a water-resistant nylon exterior along with load lifters for a more comfortable fit. You can purchase a hip belt separately.

The Aer Travel Pack 3 has one of the sleekest designs when it comes to carry-on backpacks. I also appreciate all the pockets: The sizable laptop pocket is perfect for someone like me who uses a huge laptop; the eight pockets in just the front compartment are so handy for everything you could need while traveling; and the bag even comes with a zippered water bottle pocket on the side. – Leilani Osmundson

Price: $185 or less

The Osprey Farpoint is truly an all-in-one travel pack that combines quality with minimal weight. The clamshell-style carry-on bag features a substantial main compartment across from a large mesh pocket. There's an easy-to-access zippered laptop sleeve on the side for devices up to 16 inches.

For extra support and comfort, the backpack includes a sternum strap, back panel, harness and hip belt; the latter three can be zipped up for fully streamlined travel, and compression straps help slim the bag down even more. The Osprey Farpoint 40 meets most domestic carry-on size requirements and is compatible with the Farpoint/Fairview Travel Daypack , which can be brought onto the plane as a personal item .

This is one of my favorite backpacks. I love how the back can be zipped up so the bag more resembles a duffel; this makes it easy to stow away without having to deal with a lot of straps. Additionally, the interior compression straps can really help cinch down belongings, especially if you're using packing cubes . – Leilani Osmundson

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Amanda Norcross | U.S. News

Price: $117.99 or less

Perfect for weekend getaways , the Solo Grand TSA Travel Backpack opens like a regular suitcase. In the main compartment, you can secure several outfits with compression straps and store accessories and toiletries in two zippered mesh pockets. In the back, a padded compartment protects laptops up to 17.3 inches in size, and on the front there are a variety of pockets – even pockets within pockets – for your phone and other essentials. This backpack is also equipped with two side mesh pockets, a trolley sleeve, and side and top carry handles.

This backpack is flawless. It's big without the bulk and has plenty of pockets, which not only makes it ideal for weekend getaways but also prevents me from having to awkwardly rummage through my bag when I need something on the plane. – Amanda Norcross, Senior Content & SEO Strategist

Price: $475 or less

This backpack blends function and fashion with a compact design. On the front of the bag are two zip compartments and a U-zip pocket with a card slot, a slip pocket and a pen holder. The interior of the bag is divided into two separate compartments: one zippered section with a padded laptop compartment (holds up to a 15-inch PC or 16-inch MacBook), and another large compartment with a zippered pocket and two slip pockets (ideal for glasses or charging cords).

There is also a zippered compartment on each side of the bag, one of which has a water-resistant lining for a water bottle. On the back of the bag you'll find a hidden phone compartment and a trolley sleeve to attach to a roller bag.

This style oozes sophistication, especially the black with the gold hardware. From its sleek material to its many pockets and details, this backpack looks and feels like a chic handbag that can go from the office to a beach resort with ease. I especially like that there are two places you can access the front compartment of the bag, and I like that the laptop section is separate from the rest of the backpack so it's easier to take out my computer and go through airport security (which makes me less likely to drop something from inside my bag). – Rachael Hood

Price: $299.95 or less

The Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is a solid, rugged choice that will last. The nylon canvas shell of the backpack is weatherproof and water-resistant, with a waterproof bottom liner as well. You can unzip the back panel to access the main packing compartment, which is also accessible via zippers along each side of the bag and can be divided in two by a mesh sleeve. To keep you organized, this backpack has quick-access pockets for small items like passports and glasses, plus expandable side pockets for water bottles, tripods or umbrellas.

The bag meets carry-on size requirements but can expand by 1.5 inches if you need the extra room; the shoulder straps and hip belt tuck away if you plan to check it instead. If you prefer a smaller bag, the Peak Design Travel Backpack also comes in a 30-liter size .

If you only want to bring one bag on a short trip, you can't go wrong with this backpack. It's sturdy, reliable and able to fit a ton while still being carry-on-sized. It served me well on a recent trip to New Zealand, and I'd definitely recommend it for travelers who like hands-free luggage. – Catriona Kendall

Price: $134.95 or less

If you'll be adventuring in the great outdoors for your next trip, consider purchasing the Kelty Redwing 36 backpack. You'll find two exterior water bottle pockets as well as a hydration-friendly inner pocket (for storing a water bladder). Tool loops can hold hiking poles, fishing poles, ice axes or other adventure gear. Organization is made easy with plenty of zippered pockets, including one on each side of the bag, a large one on the front and one on top that's perfect for storing travel documents such as a passport. Plus, a ventilated back panel helps keep you cool when you're hurrying through airports or hiking up a mountain.

If you need a bigger backpack, the Kelty Redwing 50 Tactical is a great checked bag option and has many of the same features as the Redwing 36 along with more straps and pockets.

The Kelty Redwing 36 can be cinched down quite a bit for truly streamlined travel and to better meet carry-on size guidelines. However, I'll caution that the waist belt is difficult to remove. – Leilani Osmundson

Price: $159.99 or less

If you want the flexibility to either carry or wheel your luggage, a wheeled backpack style may work best for you. The Samsonite Tectonic NuTech Wheeled Backpack transforms from a rolling bag into a backpack by just tucking in the handle, pulling out the stowed straps and using the wheel cover. The durable polyester material is water-repellent and has red accents.

There are three sections to this bag: a main compartment with space to pack for a weekend trip, a dedicated sleeve for both a laptop up to 15.6 inches and a tablet up to 11 inches, and a front pocket equipped with various organizational features. There are various small pockets, pen sleeves, card slots and a key leash within. You can tuck a water bottle and umbrella into the exterior pockets on either side of the bag. Just keep in mind that this bag may slightly exceed carry-on size restrictions on some airlines with stricter rules.

I expected a wheeled backpack to be uncomfortable to carry, but this convertible bag has proved surprisingly convenient. I like having both the rolling and hands-free options for different circumstances, and it has ample packing space. – Catriona Kendall

Price: $148 or less

This sustainable water-resistant backpack is constructed with 100% recycled materials and has 10 pockets to organize everything. The spacious interior compartment has a 17-inch padded laptop sleeve and a tablet sleeve with a strap to secure it in place, as well as an interior mesh pocket for small items or charging cords and a removable shoe bag.

On the exterior, the front pocket has a built-in mesh organizer for pens, and there are mesh water bottle holders on each side of the backpack. The back of the bag has two adjustable padded straps, each with a built-in zippered compartment ideal for keys, ID or tickets. A hidden zip pocket makes for a secure space for a wallet or passport, and the trolley sleeve provides added versatility.

This backpack is great for travel or everyday use. I especially appreciate the comfortable backpack straps with the small zip pockets. They are easy to reach and perfect for small items like lip gloss, cash or a transit card. Durably constructed, the water-resistant exterior performs well in any weather, and I love that there's a padded space for both my laptop and iPad. – Rachael Hood

Price: $230 or less

For an upscale backpack that can be dressed up or down, this Monos style is an ideal choice. Constructed with sustainable vegan leather (there's also a nylon version with vegan leather accents), this structured style is both water- and scratch-resistant. The 15-inch laptop sleeve is separate from the main packing compartment so you can access your device easily. The brand's QuickSnap Modular Kit System means you'll have a detachable Metro Kit for small items that attaches magnetically to the front of the bag; this kit is interchangeable between Metro bags and can be swapped out for a different kit or removed entirely, depending on your needs.

The backpack's main compartment is designed for maximum functionality with a felt-lined document sleeve, a large zippered pocket, two slip pockets, and a waterproof zippered privacy compartment for a rain jacket or gym clothes. On the back, you can make use of a hidden slip pocket for your phone, a trolley sleeve and adjustable padded straps. There's also two top carry handles if you'd prefer to carry this backpack like a tote.

I really like the elevated styling and durability of this vegan leather bag. But what sets it apart is the separate laptop compartment (I don't like to have to open my entire bag to get out my laptop while on the go), and the modular Metro Kit system that can be removed when it's not needed. It's full of value-added design elements, and the material looks classic and appropriate with any attire. – Rachael Hood

Frequently Asked Questions

Depending on its size, a backpack is considered a carry-on item. To be able to put it in the overhead bin, you generally don't want it to exceed 22 x 14 x 9 inches, but that sizing varies by airline, and since backpacks are soft-sided, the dimensions can be somewhat malleable. If it fits under the seat in front of you on the plane ( check your airline's specific size requirements ), it is typically considered a personal item. If the backpack can fit under the seat, then you can often bring it in addition to a larger carry-on bag (based on your airline ticket type and inclusions).

For a backpack to be a carry-on for most domestic airlines, it should not exceed 22 x 14 x 9 inches (or should be able to be squished to approximately those dimensions). To be considered a personal item, it must fit under the seat in front of you. Underseat size and space varies by airline and airplane type, so it's best to check with your airline's size restrictions.

How We Tested

From the comfort of the straps to the capacity of each bag, our team tested more than 20 carry-on backpacks from a variety of brands at a range of price points. We tested to see how the overall structure of the bag works for travel needs, along with the durability and details that make a difference. After taking these backpacks on a variety of adventures, we've selected these carry-on backpacks as the best for 2024.

You might also be interested in:

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What’s the Best Personal-Item Bag for Flying?

Between finding a carry-on that will fit in most overhead compartments, a toiletry bag or Dopp kit for your tiny bottles of shampoo, and an under-the-seat personal item to hold everything you’ll need for in-flight comfort and entertainment, solving the packing equation isn’t easy. To make things even more complicated, there aren’t even standard regulations for what counts as a “personal item” — as my fellow writer Rachael Griffiths explains here , each airline has its own particular requirements. If you’ve purchased a basic fare on a no-frills carrier like Frontier or Spirit, you’ll generally want to stick with a bag measuring 8 x 18 x 14 inches or smaller (and if you’ve purchased a personal-item-only fare, I’ve written a minimalist packing guide to help you figure out how to travel with just one small bag). On most other airlines, there’s a lot more you can get away with. Below, find advice from stylish frequent fliers (and Strategist staffers) about the totes, duffels, and backpacks they slip over the handles of their suitcases.

The best personal-item tote bags

Yolo Journal ’s Yolanda Edwards likes travel bags that don’t look like travel bags and can therefore be used for everyday sightseeing and shopping upon reaching your destination. Parker Thatch’s roomy totes fit the bill, and while they don’t have a luggage sleeve, Edwards has no problem slipping the handles of this one over her Rimowa suitcase. “And it’s great for going to the farmers’ market once I arrive where I’m going,” she adds.

“I look for a bag that can sit on top of my carry-on, fit a lot of items, and be easily stored when not in use,” says Daniela Velasco, the creative director of Drift magazine. That bag, for her, is Longchamp’s forever classic Le Pliage tote, which flattens and folds up for storage. Strategist senior editor Hilary Reid owns one in orange and is also “always surprised by how much fits inside.”

Is there a more quintessential carry-all than the L.L.Bean Boat and Tote? Writer and influencer Harry Hill doesn’t think so. “As someone who is usually drawn to more uppity travel bags, this trusty tote is a delight because of how unfussy it is,” Hill tells us. “It fits a ton, it’s super-lightweight, and I don’t have to worry about spilling coffee on the vachetta or putting it on the ground.” Hill suggests monogramming your name — or a crude joke, depending on personal preference. For additional customization, “the colorways are constantly changing, so keep an eye out if you have a specific vision for your tote.” While Hill adds that it’s impossible to go wrong, because any L.L.Bean “will make you look like a Kennedy skipping town,” the zip-up version of the bag will give more peace of mind at the airport.

Strategist contributing writer Mya Gelber spent a day asking stylish strangers on the subway about their work bags, and Cuyana’s Classic Easy Zipper Tote was the one she ended up purchasing for herself. So when the brand announced this larger travel-friendly version of the popular bag, I immediately ordered one to test out. Made from soft and slouchy leather, it’s a big bag that can definitely fit an outfit or two alongside your laptop, passport, and other essentials. While it can’t be worn as a cross-body, the tote’s shoulder straps are long and thick enough to be comfortable for long periods of time. There’s no luggage sleeve, either, but this means that the bag can be used more seamlessly in everyday life — it would be an excellent investment for anyone who is commuting gym-to-office.

Sewn in California from leftover sailing canvas, Pacific Tote Company’s bags are similar to L.L. Bean boat totes, except more brightly colored. The company is co-owned by director Roman Coppola (brother to Sofia, who carries Pacific Tote bags on set ) and beloved by bi-coastal film industry insiders. If you work in film and fly between L.A. and New York every other week, you carry your laptop in this pleasingly sturdy bag . Strategist style columnist Chris Black is also a fan .

When she’s not traveling with her Parker Thatch bag, Edwards also likes to use Kule’s roomy totes as personal items. Saturday Night Live ’s Chloe Fineman travels with one of these too, and says it fits both a laptop and extra outfit inside. She adds that the New York brand’s designs are “a little cheeky and a little funny,” as well as a nice reminder of home when she’s on the road.

Here’s another professional-looking, multi-purpose travel tote, as recommended by Strategist writer Lauren Ro. She says it makes a great carry-on personal item because it’s lightweight and custom-designed for air travel, with a luggage sleeve and exterior pockets for stashing chargers and tidbits, as well as a removable crossbody strap.

At least two friends that I know of ended up immediately purchasing a Baggu Cloud Carry-on after I flaunted mine at a destination wedding this past May. Made from weightless but durable nylon, the airplane-friendly version of the brand’s original Cloud Bag can hold a lot of stuff, and the bright colorways stand out in a sea of boring navy duffels at the airport. Puffy shoulder straps make standing in line at security a bit more tolerable, and generous external pockets are handy for stashing a book or water bottle. This bag’s dimensions are actually rather large (14 × 20 × 8 inches) for a personal item, but its bulkiness really depends on how much stuff you pack inside. I’ve taken mine on a personal-item-only Spirit flight with no issues at all, and on longer trips I have also slipped it over the handle of a Samsonite carry-on suitcase using the attached luggage sleeve.

The best personal-item duffel bags

Former Strategist associate editor Louis Cheslaw calls this Patagonia duffel his “ secret second suitcase ,” because its unassuming-yet-roomy interior lets him pack heavy without checking a bag. The Black Hole’s 30-liter capacity is about as large as a bag can be while still qualifying as the “personal item” you can bring onboard with your main carry-on suitcase and slide under the seat in front of you, Cheslaw notes. “Within that capacity, I can easily fit two pairs of shoes as well as a week’s worth of underwear, socks, and thin shirts, relieving a ton of pressure on my suitcase.”

This new-school garment bag, which made our Travel 100 list of the best products to take on the road, can keep a suit or gown unwrinkled while also cleverly storing several other outfits. My fellow Strategist writer Rachael Griffiths loves taking hers on weekend trips with friends, especially when packing satin dresses and pleated shirts for nights out. It’s ideal for destination weddings, and Moonflower wine bar co-owner Rebecca Johnson even took one all the way to Tasmania for a romantic antipodean getaway with her husband. Going ’s travel spokesperson, Katy Nastro, told me that it’s very popular among her exceedingly well-traveled colleagues.

For both carry-on backpacks and duffels, former Paper fashion editor Mario Abad turns to Dagne Dover’s neoprene travel bags. “They’re the best,” he says. “They’re really lightweight, and they’re made of this scuba material that looks sleek and modern and is nice to the touch.” The bags aren’t just aesthetically pleasing, though. “You can fit a lot of stuff inside — it’s a minimal aesthetic, no busy details or anything, just all the compartments you need.” Jessica Morrobel of  Traveling With Jessica agrees that the Landon is an “absolute lifesaver,” and  Going ’s travel spokesperson, Katy Nastro, is also a fan, especially for quick overnights. The duffel comes in five sizes, but medium is the best option if you know you’ll be flying on budget carriers with strict rules.

The best personal-item backpacks

This is my current personal item backpack of choice. It is designed to slip over the handles of a carry-on suitcase, but over Christmas I took it as my only luggage on a weeklong train trip across Turkey and Georgia and it fit everything I needed, including an extra pair of shoes. The neutral design is as appropriate for day hiking and office commuting as it is flying. But the capacity is the biggest drawcard. Creator Jessica Wright of Bon Traveler is a longtime user and says she is “shocked” by how much it can hold. Great for packers who like to compartmentalize, the interior is separated into various sleeves and sections for a laptop, clothing, and tech items. But you can also remove these compartments and just use it as a black hole bag if needed.

My fellow Strategist travel writer Rachael Griffiths prefers this sleek Timbuk2 backpack with even more sleeves and compartments for organizing items on the move. It, too, can store “a week away’s worth of clothes and a fat beach read if you’re strategic,” she says. Which is ideal if you’re traveling personal-item-only .

The “clown car of personal items” is what writer and film wrangler Maggie Slepian calls this top-loading backpack from hiker-beloved brand Gregory. When she used it as her only luggage item for a four-day trip to the East Coast last fall, it fit a laptop, notebook, sandals, running shoes, rain jacket, jumpsuit, two pairs of leggings, two pairs of shorts, several shirts, toiletries, socks, undergarments, five pairs of headphones (over-ear, noise-canceling earbuds, white-noise only, corded for the plane, and AirPods for Zoom calls), and snacks. Her water bottle was stashed in the stretchy side pocket.

Patagonia’s Ultralight Black Hole Tote Pack is “a really good bag,” as Strategist contributing writer Molly Dektar observes . Popular among globe-trotting art world types, it can be carried as either a tote or a backpack, depending on the situation, and it folds into its own internal pocket, for easy storage. It is practical without sacrificing style: “Though it is crafted of black ripstop, it does not scream, ‘I hike!’ and though it has a large number of pockets and adjustable straps, it does not scream, ‘I code!’”

Strategist senior editor Simone Kitchens is a fan of Patagonia’s Black Hole bags too — but she uses this more traditional-looking one. “ There are one zillion separate little pockets and perfectly sized compartments for things like chargers and night guards and passports and AirPods,” she explains, “as well as slim sleeves for a laptop and magazines.” The bag opens at the top, which means things won’t come tumbling out when you need to grab something. And while there’s a high level of organization happening on the inside, the bag has a smooth exterior: “ I quite like that the outside doesn’t look all that tricked out. ”

Despite fears of looking like a Scandinavian school child or 2012-era hipster, Strategist writer Dominique Pariso is loyal to her Kanken — and she’s not alone among our staff . “This backpack is so light, so compact, and so durable it really is ideal for stuffing under tiny airplane seats,” she explains. “Plus, you can fit way more stuff inside than seems humanly possible given its petite size.”

The best personal-item cross-bodies and fanny packs

Crescent-shaped bags have been everywhere over the past couple of years, but here’s one that’ll stand out from the crowd. Writer and artist Ludwig Hurtado says it’s big enough to fit your phone, headphones, passport, sunglasses, snacks, and even a book or two. And the cross-body strap makes it ideal for travel: “In theory, I love the look of a large tote bag, but when I’m running around the city or the airport, they tend to fall off my shoulder way too easily.” He took his to Paris Fashion Week as well as on a quick trip to Berlin, where it successfully helped him gain entry to Berghain.

On the more affordable side of things, Baggu’s take on the crescent trend is excellent for travel. I’ve had mine for a couple of years now and would be lost without it at the airport. It’s comfortable to wear, with a highly adjustable strap and two zippered internal pockets for securing your phone, passport, and wallet. The capacity is huge: I can fit a book and water bottle inside and still have room left over for other items. I’ve machine washed it several times with no issue. And while the bag looks smart, especially in the black colorway, it’s also low-key enough to avoid the attention of pickpockets. Hairstylist Teddi Cranford, who has visited Marrakech five times , says that it’s “essential for the souk,” because you can “just easily grab stuff out and zip it back up.”

Less sporty-looking than the ubiquitous Lululemon belt bag, and constructed from stretchy neoprene fabric that lets you stuff it full if you need to, our favorite fanny pack is perfect for the plane. As Strategist editor Maxine Builder explains, it’s made of “forgiving, easy-to-clean” neoprene, and “it expands a fair bit” so she can stuff more into it.

The Strategist is designed to surface the most useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Some of our latest conquests include the best acne treatments , rolling luggage , pillows for side sleepers , natural anxiety remedies , and bath towels . We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.

Every editorial product is independently selected. If you buy something through our links, New York may earn an affiliate commission.

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Keep Calm and Carry On: Hand Luggage Essentials

Your ultimate carry-on must-haves for your ooo excursion....

Every seasoned OOO traveller knows the hardships that come with packing light. Do you compromise the second pair of heels for a sensible flat? Hope that your pre-holiday blowout lasts long enough to not need your hair dryer or just pray that your friend packs enough ensembles and sunglasses for the both of you. 

Whether you've planned a weekend getaway to somewhere sandy and sunny, a week-long festival with your besties or a romantic day trip to the City of Love, we've got your carry-on luggage essentials sorted...

A Chic Weekend Away

Nothing screams a romantic weekend trip away quite like a selection of designer goodies. The trick to elevating any ensemble is with a set of luxury accessories so be sure to back your favourite watch, sunglasses and a sultry red lipstick.

. Ballet Flats, Miu Miu , £700.00; Passport cover, Smythson , £180.00; Sunglasses, Linda Farrow , £499.00; Watch, Rotary , £249.00; Bag, Dior , £4,400.00; Perfume, Chanel, £120.00; Travel Diary, Smythson , £60.00.

A Trip With the Girls

Bag, Dior , £3,050.00; Shoes, Dior, £890.00; Lip oil, Summer Fridays , £26.00; Hand Cream, Rare Beauty , £18.00; Headphones, Shokz , £119.00; Concealer, Glossier , £22.00; Necklace, Thomas Sabo , £279.00; Perfume, Jo Malone , £55.00/

Just because you're exploring a new city with your nearest and dearest, it doesn't mean you need to compromise on stylish footwear. The trick to packing a bag for a girl's holiday is to ensure that each item can be borrowed, interchanged and used by everyone on the trip.

A Far Away Festival 

Boots, Terry de Havilland , £350.00; Bag, Jacquemus , £365.00; Sunglasses, Karen Walker ; Phone, Samsung , From £1149.00; Sunscreen Serum, Ultra Violette , £38.00; Sunscreen, Malin+Goetz , £33.00.

We all know that summer festivals are the real fashion runway. Cowboy boots in bold colours are a must while accenting pops of colour, a cross-body bag, suncream and a backup of paracetamol.

A Beachside Escape

Bikini, Away That Day , £75.00; Sandals, Mango , £59.99; Bag, DeMellier , £330.00; Sunglasses, Linda Farrow , £499.00; Sunscreen, Sun Bum , £10.79; Eye Masks, Rodial , £15.00; Lipbalm, Carmex , £3.49; Bronzing Drops, E.l.f , £12.00.

When it comes to beachside essentials there are only a few necessities that come to mind. A bikini with removable straps to fight awkward tan lines, glow drops for a bronzy shimmer, comfortable sandals to go with every outfit, a Kindle filled with your favourite books and ample amounts of sunscreen.

Photographer:   Pixeleyes Photography

Stylist:  Orion Scott

Assisted by:  Chloe Gallacher

Producer:  Clare Pennington

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Parent item expand the sub menu, the 12 best designer tote bags that carry it all.

Including lightweight canvas and luxurious leather handbags.

Commerce Writer and Producer for Footwear News and WWD

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Updated June 18, 2024: This article on the best designer tote bags was updated with fresh product picks for summer and top editor’s choice recommendations, along with tote bag outfit inspiration and trend insights for 2024.

Call them the white T-shirt of accessories — the best designer tote bags are a practical piece of arm candy that you can rely on for everyday function and polish. A winning selection can play as a chic work bag , a durable beach bag , an overnight bag , or a stellar carry-on for jet-setting in one fell swoop, making for a versatile closet staple that’s well worth the investment.

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Tiffany Hsu , Vice President of Womenswear & Kidswear  Fashion  Buying at Mytheresa, recommends focusing your selection on all-occasion versatility to get the best use of your splurge. “Investing in a luxury fashion item with function is important so that it can transition to other aspects of your life,” she adds, noting that a well-worthy tote should seamlessly serve from work days to the weekends.

Designer tote bags that front “quiet luxury” simplicity and whisper the utmost quality are seamless to weave into your wardrobe, while trending silhouettes like East-West bags and oversized styles double-down on the tote bag’s core function with stylish appeal. You can pair your tote with oversized tailored pants and a simple tee as Jennifer Lopez often does for a stylish shopping trip, or take cues from Kaia Gerber and tote along a luxe leather carryall from a workout class to brunch.

Scroll on to see our guide to the best designer tote bags for work, weekend escapes, and more, from durable luxury leather styles to lightweight woven raffia options. Plus, fashion experts share the top designer tote bag trends for 2024, along with helpful tips of what to consider when buying a designer tote.

Top Designer Tote Bags of 2024

• Editor’s Choice : Longchamp Le Pliage Tote
• Editor’s Choice : Altuzarra Large Watermill East-West Straw Tote
• Editor’s Choice : Chanel Caviar Quilted Grand Shopping Tote

Mansur Gavriel Everyday Soft Tote

• Béis The The East to West Tote

Marc Jacobs The Tote Bag

Tory burch mesh tote, naghedi st. barths large tote, cuyana classic easy tote bag, coach rogue bag, freja lafayette tote, khaite the medium lotus tote.

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Editor’s Choice: Top 3 Designer Tote Bags of 2024

• Longchamp Le Pliage Tote : This durable nylon tote bag has become a gold standard among the wealth designer tote bags. Affordably priced and exceptionally versatile, this practically bottomless tote is lightweight and sturdy, with a stain-resistant construction you can rely on while traveling or commuting on the train to work. Plus, it comes in a rainbow of colorway options that lean into prominent color trends or seamlessly suit your own aesthetic.
• Altuzzara Large Watermill East-West Straw Tote: In the market for a straw tote you can wear beyond the beach? This on-trend East-West tote from Altuzzara fronts the classic style with modern appeal, from black leather caging to luxe braided straps. Refined and minimal, this designer tote bag looks chic in the summer, especially when teamed with a flowing summer dress or linen outfit set.
• Chanel Caviar Quilted Grand Shopping Tote: An all-occasion tote bag is worth investing in, and you’d be hard-pressed to find a style that’s quite as luxe and versatile as this stunner from Chanel. Its timeless design dons modern trends like chain straps and plush leather quilting (of which have come back around thanks to Chanel’s heritage influence) and features special details like shoulder pad straps and interior organization. Wear it for an errand run or to a fancy dinner date — this precious piece will carry you through it all.

Longchamp Le Pliage Tote

If you’re searching for an everyday bag that covers every base from work, travel, and day-to-day hauling, you’ll want choose a classic and durable style that can withstand regular wear and tear, like the cult-favorite Longchamp Le Pliage Tote. Its durable nylon construction, lightweight feel, and timeless appeal is versatile and functional — and it holds more weight than you’d think. It comes in a slew of on-trend colorways, from burgundy to gray-blue and this fresh green, and rings it at an affordable price point that won’t break the bank (or eat into your vacay budget). What testers say: I love this classic so much I’ve gotten six of them over the last few years! Don’t let the thin nylon fabric fool you, these bags are sturdy. Ideal for carry on travel! I knew I was on to something when I counted the number of Longchamp bags on a trip to London in first class, and even more at baggage claim some years ago. I can’t go anywhere in NYC subways, streets, or gym without spotting one or more of the large totes. Some things are universal and this tote is definitely one of the best!” Price upon publication of this article: $145

Altuzarra Large Watermill East/West Straw Tote

What’s summer without a straw bag? Whether you wear it as a beach bag or daytime tote bag to add textural intrigue to your summer outfit , the Altuzarra Large Watermill East/West Straw Tote is chic and sturdy for the long haul. Tightly woven with natural straw and bound by leather caging and straps, it features a wide, open top that allows you to see all its contents in one glance, and secures with a minimal tie closure. It’s large enough to fit a laptop, spare sweater , Stanley Quencher , and then some, with two sturdy braided top handles that add a polishing touch and fit comfortably over the shoulder. Price upon publication of this article: $495

Chanel Caviar Quilted Grand Shopping Tote

A designer tote bag that can do it all is a worthy investment, so you might as well take the plunge on a classic from Chanel that you’ll cherish for decades. The Caviar Quilted Grand Shopping Tote is as luxurious as they come, featuring timeless quilted caviar leather and polished chain-link shoulder straps that come cushioned with shoulder pads for carrying comfort. Lined with satin, its interior splits into two large sections that are large enough for a laptop and spare sandals , and is separated by a central zip pocket for storing more precious goods like your wallet or passport. High-fashion meets high-function with this collector’s piece. Price upon publication of this article: $3,060

The Mansur Gavriel Everyday Soft Tote grants you beautiful bang for your buck. Its exceptional quality makes it a great value for under $800, with supple, lightweight Italian leather to its flexible carryall silhouette. Its buttery finish plays as a minimalist mainstay in the celebrity street style of city slickers like Julianne Moore and Katie Holmes, while remaining just as functional as it is stylish. Consider this a modern Mary Poppins tote: It can fit everything from a work day’s worth of essentials, to workout gear, and flight must-haves like a pillow and blanket. Plus, it comes with an interior pouch for smaller goods like your signature lipstick or a phone charger. Editor testing and review notes : “This leather tote bag has a super minimalist design that lets the high-quality craftsmanship shine through — the construction is gorgeous and although understated, reads luxurious. It has a relaxed silhouette that slouches just a bit when it’s on my shoulder, giving a chic lived-in, heirloom look to it. It’s so spacious that in a pinch, I’ve used this as an overnight bag. ” Price upon publication of this article: $795

Béis The East to West Tote

Great for a getaway or the daily haul, the Béis East to West Tote shines for its versatility and organization. The durable bestseller features all the fixings: One large compartment to fit a laptop, several interior and exterior pockets for small items, spill-resistant lining, and a secure zip closure. It also has a trolley pass-through slot for travel, as well as a convenient key leash and slot for your water bottle. You can wear it three ways as a top handle bag, crossbody bag , or shoulder bag , thanks to its removable and adjustable shoulder strap. What testers say : “I love this bag! It’s very big and holds a lot of stuff when traveling. It’s also great as a toddler mom who has a lot of items to carry — I love the three different carrying options. Fits perfectly even when packed full under the seat in the airplane. 100% would recommend. It’s also obviously adorable..” Price upon publication of this article: $108

Large-and-in-charge red totes have been all over the runway, and this cult-favorite iteration from Marc Jacobs happens to come in a bold cherry red for summer. The traditional leather style is spacious and structured for work or travel, with a removable and adjustable crossbody strap and a zipper closure that opens to one main compartment with a separate zippered back. If you have yet to jump on this bags hype — which amounts to over 50 million views and searches on TikTok — consider this your cue. What testers say: “Love this bag! It is cute and easy to carry. Love the shine, and it goes from every day to out to dinner in a blink! Fashionable and versatility make this bag a win.” Price upon publish date of this article:  $425

In the hotter months, mesh makes for an excellent tote bag material because it’s durable, lightweight, and incredibly easy to clean — especially as a beach tote when sand inevitably creeps its way in. This minimalist tote from Tory Burch comes right off the runway and is available in prominent colors trends for 2024, like pale yellow and rich green hues. It serves as a compact, featherweight carrier with refined touches like leather trimmed-tulle to hold a healthy haul. What testers say : “This bag immediately caught my eye due to the extremely sleek silhouette and minimalistic branding details. Not only is the quality amazing but it is so chic!!! I have worn this every day since I have received and is the perfect beach or pool bag. The tote comfortably fits my book, cosmetics, sunglasses, wallet, etc. This is definitely a product I will use for years and just purchased another to gift my roommate for her birthday. A must buy!!!” Price upon publication of this article: $248

The Naghedi St. Barths Large Tote turns the trendy woven, basket bag design on its head with handwoven construction of strong and sturdy neoprene. It forwards the same relaxed attitude for summer as you’d find in a straw tote but is far more forgivable, with stain and spill resistant fabrication, a lightweight feel, and stretchy top handles that fit snug upon the shoulder. Its large and open design spreads wide from the top, allowing you to quickly fish out your goods, while a removable crossbody strap gives you the option of hauling it hands-free. Editor testing and review notes:  “I’m always amazed by how much this tote bag can carry — I’ll fill it to the brim with heavy items like a full water bottle, an extra pair of shoes, and my overstuffed makeup bag when I’m traveling. The strap stretches slightly when the bag is full; this makes it easy to slip on the shoulder and also creates a bouncy, buoyant feeling that makes what you’re carrying feel lighter than it would in a standard canvas tote.” Price upon publication of this article: $340

Cuyana’s leather goods have captured the hearts of minimalist dressers worldwide. Not only are its designs crafted from the finest Italian leather that wears well over time and gets better with age, but they’re also timeless, allowing you to wear them over and over again without hesitation. This minimalist-friendly design is sleek and classic. It has a double handle for easy carrying and a spacious interior to store all of your essentials for work or the weekend — it can house all your tech, making it a top laptop bag . The bag is offered in five core colors ranging from black to grey and four seasonal hues like butter yellow and burnt orange, so there’s an array of options to suit anyone’s taste. What testers say : “This is my fourth Easy Tote! I love it so much. I get different colors for the seasons. I like this tote because it wears really well and always looks great. It holds a ton and its minimalist design compliments anything.” Price upon publish date of this article:  $268

Among Freja’s bestselling tote selection is the large Lafayette East-to-West style tote. Its softly structured silhouette spans wide for fitting large items (including 16-inch laptops), with a sturdy base for secure storage and pinched top handles that comfortably rest atop the shoulders. It also comes chock-full with thoughtful details, like four roomy pockets, a key leash, and soft vegan microsuede lining. Its chic design aptly doubles as a purse you can wear out on the town — take your pick from five rich and versatile neutral colorways in luxe vegan leather that flash shiny gold hardware. Price upon publication of this article: $309

Coach has been trailblazing sustainable leather bag construction over the past several seasons, and the Rogue tote is a shining example of the brand’s eco-conscious, fashionable designs. Made of regenerative pebble leather that’s durable enough for decades-worth of wear, it features accordion-style compartments inside that’ll have any organization lover jumping for joy. One large zip compartment comes flanked by two expandable side wells, containing credit card slots and small magnetic snap pockets to hold items like your headphones and keys. The transitional crossbody bag also dons a zip top closure that keeps everything secure, while it stands safe and stable upon four protective metal feet. What testers say : “The Rogue bags are my favorite. All of sizes too. The three compartments are perfect for keeping your items organized, the handles plus the straps make it a breeze to carry, and there’s a size for all occasions. It’s a gorgeous style of bag.” Price upon publication of this article: $850

Khaite’s scarf-inspired Lotus Tote has swiftly become a modern classic in fashion circles. “The textured, buttery suede on this bag makes for the lushest, everyday tote,” says Hsu. Its sculptural silhouette and expandable capabilities make this a stellar choice for those looking to stray from the ordinary tote bag, without skimping on essential function. It leans into this season’s boho-chic resurgence with this warm Caramel Suede colorway that omits fringe for more clean lines, with a structured round base and a bonus pouch for storing small items. “[It’s a] chic alternative to everyday black that can elevate any outfit,” adds Hsu. Price upon publication of this article: $1,980

Designer Tote Bag Trends for 2024

For summer 2024, “micro mini bags are being traded in for more practical oversized styles,” says Noelle Sciacca , Senior Fashion Lead at The Real Real. “They need large tote bags that can carry their day-to-day necessities.” Fashion-forward brands have taken note of the shifting landscape and are now offering bags that rethink proportions for a more elevated and practical look and feel. Sciacca cites Louis Vuitton’s Onthego carryall and Bottega Veneta’s Intrecciato tote as recent designer handbag examples.

Today’s totes feature unexpected details, whether it’s an abstract shape, sustainable materials, or colorful finishes. “Quiet luxury” trends are bypassing logo-heavy prints for solid colorways done in high-quality materials, while we’re seeing architectural silhouettes and bold proportions at The Row , Loewe , and Victoria Beckham . Oversized and overstuffed totes lean into more personalized sentiments, too, à la Jane Birkin’s enduring signature , as seen in dangling charms and overflowing contents on the 2024 runways at Coach , Bottega Veneta , Balenciaga , and Miu Miu . As for color trends , muted tones and pastels are replacing neutrals, from rich reds to mossy greens, and pastels like nearly nude peach fuzz, butter yellow, and cornflower blue.

Vintage tote bags are also gaining traction. “Shoppers are looking to pre-owned vintage tote bags to make smart investments.” Sciacca says. “Classic styles,” — like the Chanel Caviar Quilted Grand Shopping Tote — “have the highest resale values of any bags on the secondhand market; both are great examples of luxury handbags that regularly sell for or above current retail prices. Adding, “Louis Vuitton’s Neverfull tote continues to be a bestselling, volume-driving style from the brand, reselling for over 80% of its original retail price, on average.”

Designer Tote Bag Outfit Ideas

For the office.

Shown with : J.Crew Elena Shirtdress ($168), Larroudé Ines Pump In Black Leather ($330), Shashi Grace Earrings ($79), Chanel Rouge Coco Flash in Ultime ($45)

For Weekend Errands

Shown with: Ganni Poplin Front-Tie Peplum Blouse with Puffed-Sleeves ($185), Toteme High-Rise Tapered Organic Jeans ($360), Dolce Vita Hardi Slingback Penny Loafers ($130)

Shown with : Gap 100% Linen Boyfriend Shirt (69.96), Aritzia The Effortless Pant in Linen (148), Le Specs Outta Love Sunglasses ($65), adidas SL 72 OG Shoes ($100)

What to Look for In the Best Designer Tote Bags

• Size: “When searching for your ideal designer tote, first identify what you will use it for,” Sciacca says. “Are you hoping this will carry your laptop back and forth between the office and home? If so, check the listed dimensions to ensure they will fit your devices. Will this tote double as a luxe gym bag? If the answer is yes, look for a style with extra pockets to separate pre-workout and post- workout clothes , sneakers , socks, etc.,” Sciacca adds. If you’re traveling, an oversized tote will be necessary to pack in-flight essentials and maybe even clothes for the weekend getaway.
• Material: When it comes to handbags, material is fundamental to consider. Even the most beautiful totes will fall short if crafted with the wrong textures like polyester. Instead, look for sturdy, durable, and easy-to-style materials like leather, Gramaccioni tells WWD. Leather stands the test of time and “holds up to everyday wear and tear,” she adds. Canvas is also a long-lasting and flexible fabric that can be the right choice for those who see heavy daily use.
• Color: Have you ever made an impulsive purchase because the bag you were interested in came in a color you loved, only to get home and realize it doesn’t go with your clothes? That’s why considering the color of your tote bag — especially if it’s an investment — is essential. First, take the time to go through your wardrobe and identify the colors you wear the most. “If you want this closet staple to blend in with your existing wardrobe seamlessly, opt for a neutral color that will pair well with everything like a black patent Bottega tote,” Sciacca says. “If you’re planning for your carryall to be your go-to statement piece, search for bolder colors and prints like a bright blue Balenciaga A4 tote or the Fendi Vertigo bag.”

How to Clean a Designer Tote Bag

Before cleaning any type of tote bag, empty the bag of all items and double-check the tag for washing instructions. Once you’re ready to wash, you can take a few different methods depending on what fabric your bag is made from.

• Leather tote bags: Leather handbags are fairly easy to clean if you use a mild leather soap and a barely damp cloth. After cleaning, apply a leather conditioner to help the bag remain flexible and resistant to stains. Often, at-home treatments work for leather bags; however, if you own a very expensive, delicate leather tote, we recommend taking it to a leather specialist for professional treatment.
• Suede tote bags: Suede tote bags can be the hardest to clean because often, suede can get discolored with water. So, if you want to remove any markings, use a white dry cloth and gently rub your bag to remove surface marks. If there is a stain, use a pencil eraser or cleaning eraser. 
• Canvas tote bags: When it comes to canvas, you want to start on a small area of the bag to ensure the whole thing won’t get damaged. Start with a soft washcloth and warm water: If the stain still isn’t coming out, then you can use a toothbrush and mild soap, but make sure not to scrub too hard. You can also wash it by hand with a mild detergent or another cleaning solution like talcum powder or cornstarch.
• Nylon tote bags: If your bag is nylon, you’ll clean it differently than leather or suede. Since nylon is water-resistant, gently hand-wash it with mild soap, rinse it with water, and let it air dry.

How We Selected the Best Designer Tote Bags

Since 1910, WWD — often referred to as “the fashion bible” — has been the leading industry voice of authority for senior executives in the global women’s and men’s fashion, retail and beauty communities, while also informing the consumer media that cover the market. Today, WWD’s breaking news and trend coverage continues to be a trustworthy resource for both fashion insiders and consumers alike. Our shopping editors continue to uphold WWD’s editorial standards and values with quality, expert-backed product selections.

To find the best designer tote bags on the market, we assessed several different factors and design elements of every tote bag on this list, including the style, straps, interior features, and materials used, plus personal testing and market research. To narrow our selections of tote bags for women, we looked to online consumer reviews and three interviewed designer bag experts. Additionally, we looked for tote bags that cater to all occasions — for travel, everyday wear, and nights out. For the third update to the best designer tote bags for summer 2024, we performed another round of research and testing to ensure our readers are up to date on the latest and greatest finds in the women’s handbag market. You’ll find a price range that stems from affordable, budget-friendly finds from brands like Longchamp to high-end purse brands like Chanel that have become tried-and-true favorites in the space.  Learn more about us here.

Meet the Experts

Marta Gramaccioni is Head of Buying at Luisaviaroma. She has extensive knowledge in the luxury fashion space and is always keeping up with what well-established, and emerging designers are creating for the seasons ahead so that she can offer timeless and fashion-forward pieces, including outwear, bottoms, footwear, and more, to all types of Luisaviaroma shoppers.

Noelle Sciacca is the Senior Fashion Lead at The Real Real. Previously she’s held positions at Mashable and Hearst, reporting on fashion and its latest accessories, including jewelry and designer handbags, and contributing to celebrity editorial photoshoots.

Meet the Author

Olivia Cigliano  is a Commerce Writer & Producer at Footwear News and WWD where she writes shopping content across fashion, beauty, footwear, TikTok style trends, and more. Cigliano received her bachelor’s degree in journalism from Emerson College, and her byline can be found in publications including Elite Daily and CR Fashion Book. She is currently based in New York City. She updated this story in June, 2024 with new editor-recommended products and additional insight on tote bag trends for summer 2024.

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Coming from an *expert* in packing a 50-pound carry-on.

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Promising review: "Must-have traveling accessory. Best way to pack a suitcase! I’ll never go back to stuffing everything in on its own. These compartments held way more than I imagined and kept me organized. I will definitely add more to my collection. Makes a great gift for frequent travelers too!" — Lisa

Get them from Amazon for $18.95+ (available in 11 styles and in packs of two, three, or six).

2. An adorable toiletry pouch that you can carry in your bag so that your most-used products are protected and easy to access. It's also easy to clean in case your foundation decides to get messy.

Get it from Target for $5 .

3. A shoe bag  because, like underwear, you can never pack too many. Keep them compacted, together, and mess-free with this adorable case.

Promising review:  "You can totally fit three pairs of shoes in this! (Size 6.5 female shoe, fit heels, wedges, and sandals.) I bought two and will absolutely be buying more for my husband. 10/10 would recommend! I travel frequently, and I always overpack; this helped cut down space and stress immensely! " — Taylor

Get it from Amazon for $22.99  (available in nine colors and patterns). 

4. A 50-count set of  laundry soap sheets  that is *way* smaller than a jug of Gain and won't get you looked at suspiciously by the TSA agent.

These work best with hand-washing!

Promising review:  "This came SO in handy during my vacation to Europe! I was making lots of different stops to places with different types of weather. With these laundry soap sheets I was able to wash my clothes in the sink — letting me pack just the right amount of clothes for all the different places I went." — Katie Fujarski

Get a pack of 50 from Amazon for  $12.95 .

5. A sturdy, lightweight  eight-compartment pill organizer  so you can bring a little bit of everything without all the bottles — Pepto Bismol, Ibuprofen, Dramamine...just grab a bit of it all.

Promising review: "My husband and I travel a lot and take a number of prescription drugs. It was always a hassle accessing our medication when needed, so I purchased this organizer to make things easier. I used a label maker and labeled each little compartment and it has performed wonderfully. I highly recommend this organizer to anyone who travels and needs medications throughout the day." — Jacqueline

Get a three-pack from Amazon for $9.97  (available in two colors).

6. A jewelry organizer  that'll take up way less space than a jewelry box while in your suitcase and won't leave them a tangled mess when you take them out. 

Promising review:  "Best jewelry travel pouch ever. Plenty of room for all my travel jewelry needs. Half the size of previous pouches I have tried and holds more than any of them. " — T Rex Mom

Get it from Amazon for $19.99 (available in two sizes and 12 colors).

7. A  hands-free (rotating!) phone mount  so you don't get a sore neck from looking down to watch a movie. It's designed for use on any airplane and can be mounted to the tray table. And you've been wasting room in your bag to carry a laptop. Psh.

Promising review : "I bought this nifty gadget about six months ago for a multi-leg, ultra long haul trip and it more than held up the entire duration . I was able to finagle it to fit the tray tables on different planes and like others, I find the height just nice when clamped onto a stowed tray table . It also works on my roller carry-on handle during layovers. However, I find myself using it a lot outside of travel too! Work-wise, I've clamped it onto my office desk shelving to hold my phone at eye level beside my computer . At home, I simply clamped it to a deck of cards and it turns into a versatile stand that I can place on any flat surface. Heck, I've been using it to hold my phone comfortably at eye level while watching videos in bed. It's extremely well-built and I find myself fidgeting with it all the time. Thus far it still feels solid and I don't anticipate breaking it any time soon. Even if it does break, I'll be happy to buy another one or two of it!" — Earendil

Perilogics  is a small biz that specializes in tech-oriented travel products and backpacks. 

Get it from Amazon for $12.97  (available in four colors and packs of two). 

8. A pair of Beats noise-canceling earbuds that take up way less carry-on space (but looks just as good) as the on-ear headphones. Reviewers love how long these babies hold a charge (and when you do need to power up, just pop them in the included case to do so).

Promising review: "They fit very comfortably and I love the features! I love the clear design; brings back the Gameboy in clear. Also, the way this bass feels is eargasmic!" — Adrian

Get it from Walmart for $169.95 (available in three colors).

9. Silicone travel bottles  — in the war against excess things you need to pack, full-sized bottles should be the first to go. Also, have you ever attempted to get product out of a rigid travel bottle? Impossible.

*Plus,* decanting your creams and liquids into these babies will free up space in your carry-on and spare you weight. 

PS: It also comes with pre-printed labels and a handy, clear zipper pouch!

Promising review:  "Just took a trip to the Dominican Republic and used carry-on luggage only throughout the entire trip, never once was questioned about the size. The bag they are in seems thin but it worked great to put bottles back in as well as some smaller items fit in the bag too, like lip gloss, mascara, and such. The holes are big enough to get your product in to the bottles without any complications.  My fiancé and myself had plenty of shampoo, conditioner, sunblock and lotion for seven days.  Highly recommend these bottles, they are perfect for carry-ons!!" — Stephanie Miller

Get a set of four bottles from Amazon for  $14.99+  (available in a variety of sizes and colors).

10. A packing checklist  that'll help you bring what you need and *only* what you need. Packing a week's worth of outfits and accessories in my carry-on? Try me.

Promising review: "We travel frequently and have two children. As any parent knows, packing for yourself and your children can be overwhelming (especially for a trip longer than a few days ). I have found this list to be a lifesaver and I also give it as a gift for other traveling families. It is easy to plan, organize, and list out items that are easily forgotten. You can also list the quantity of each item needed. It has a variety of clothing options and space to add more. Overall, wonderful purchase and has likely saved me many forgotten items!" — I-really-bought-this

Get it from Amazon for $7+  (available in two colors and varieties). 

11. A  travel Gillette razor  so you can plan to (or pretend to plan to) shave on your trip. It will take up a tiny amount of space in a toiletry bag and is *probably* a better plan than packing a razor blade in your carry-on.

It comes with one handle and five blade refills!

Promising review: "I got this for a vacation and it was great! The little carrying container is awesome, and keeps you from having a weird, loose razor floating around in your suitcase. Plus the heads are the same as a regular-sized razor , so you can keep using it when that one is worn out!" — Tegan H

Get it from Amazon for $9.99  (also available in a pack of two).

12. An ergonomic  Trtl neck pillow  that is much more compact in your bag than traditional neck pillows. It's scientifically proven to prevent stiff necks, so you don't need to ice when you land.

It also easily attaches to backpacks and luggage handles (see the photo on the right), weighs less than half a pound, and is machine washable!

Promising review: "I can't stop recommending this pillow to all of my friends! It has let me comfortably sleep on flights that take place on the most uncomfortable airplane seats. On long flights, I always need to prop up my hand and I rest my head on it. But this method always ends with my arm falling asleep and I end up waking up every 30 minutes.  Now this pillow provides that exact same support without needing my arms to prop me up! It's small enough to fit in your bag and doesn't take up much space. " — Simona Krifman

Get it from Amazon for  $64.99+  (available in five colors).

13. A compact  portable espresso maker  because having your coffee is too important to leave to chance. Like a teeny tiny coffee maker, it lets you be a coffee snob without the bulk.

Promising review: "The best thing for traveling ever!! I have to have espresso every morning and most small hotels and gas stations don't have espresso coffee so this is perfect! Easy to use. The cleaning takes 30 seconds; just rinse with water and let it dry." — Joanna Verdeja

Get it from Amazon for $54.90  (and here are some Nespresso pods to go with it).

14. A reusable,  collapsible coffee cup  so you can bring along a cup for your 6 a.m. flight *without* having to store a bulky thermos in your bag afterward.

It's also microwave-safe! Note that the 12-ounce size does not include a straw, but both the 16-ounce and 24-ounce sizes do.

BuzzFeed Shopping editor  Danielle Healy has this and loves it. She writes: "This is of the first zero-waste swaps I made and I've never looked back. If you buy to-go coffee – whether you're jet-setting or just grabbing a mid-day pick-me-up — this cup is a must-have . So long as you remember to bring it, it's all the convenience of to-go coffee with none of the waste. It's leakproof and, when you're all done, it collapses down teeny tiny and can be tossed back in your bag. Oh! And it comes with a straw, so all you iced coffee lovers can get in on the action, too."

Stojo  is a small biz founded by three New York dads who wanted a better way to get their convenient coffee fix without all the waste. Now they make stylish collapsible essentials in a variety of sizes and colors, including bottles and food storage containers.

Get it from Amazon for $14.95+ (available in four sizes and 24 colors).

15. A Hairbrella  to protect your hair and face from stormy weather. It's satin-lined, so it won't dry out your hair or cause frizz. It's like an umbrella, but better — and it actually fits in your bag.

Promising review: "Works like a charm! So...of course the day I get my hair done, an unexpected torrential downpour occurs and I have NO umbrella. But...I DID have my Hairbrella in my bag! This was the first time I would get to try it out since I purchased it so I was REALLY hoping it would live up to its hype. I loosely pinned my hair up with a few bobby pins, secured that sucka in place and took off! While I looked like I just exited a dunk tank after my valiant sprint to my car, my hair was BONE DRY!!! 🙌🏾 Not a drop of moisture hit my hair. Hairbrella is the TRUTH!!!" — Lina

Hairbrella is a Black-owned small business that specializes in hats that protect hair from all kinds of weather. 

Get it from Amazon for $29+ (available in 10 colors).

16. A plush microfiber  makeup-removing cloth  that gently takes off your makeup and lifts away dirt using only water. Leave the bottles of mascara remover and micellar water at home — this baby is all👏🏻you👏🏻need👏🏻.

Promising review: "This is incredible! I can't believe how well this works! I travel a lot for work and usually take makeup remover wipes because of the liquid restrictions for travel, but they are expensive and heavy. I have been using this cloth all week and LOVE IT! A bit of warm water and everything comes off in a few easy swipes. I am super excited to travel with this. It weighs nothing and rolls up to take very little space. I am ordering another for my mom who also travels. Highly recommend!" — KT

Get it from Amazon for $6.99+ (available in four colors).

17. A lightweight, water-resistant  Neutrogena SPF 50 face and body stick sunscreen  so you don't need to pack five different lotions for all the family members (all in their own travel-sized bottles, ugh).

BuzzFeed Shopping editor Elizabeth Lilly brought this on an international trip and loved it: "I first bought this for a weeklong Croatian vacation last year when I did carry-on, and as long as you are *thoroughly* reapplying, this stuff stays on pretty well. On a beach club afternoon, I did haphazardly reapply and missed a strip on one arm, but I tend to do that with spray-on or lotion sunscreen, too. Since then, I've packed this for any trip I've been on , including a two-day Disneyland trip where I toted this around in my bag and shared with friends. I sometimes carry it with me in my purse on my everyday adventures because I know it's so easy to apply. Also worth mentioning...I am about the palest lady you've ever seen and swear by daily application of sunscreen. But when on a beach trip, I'm constantly swimming in the water and sweating. So yeah, this stuff works.  And if you're a bit hesitant about jumping on the solid sunscreen bandwagon, you can pack a stick of this, knowing you have enough sun protection to get you through to finding some spray-on or lotion SPF at your destination."

Get it from Amazon for $9.88 .

18. A lightweight  money belt  that keeps you from having to pack a wallet and a belt (hey — every little bit helps you fit everything in your carry-on).

Promising review: "Wore this belt on a recent 10-day trip, with several hundred dollars neatly folded in its full-length zippered pocket. The bills (USD) had to be folded lengthwise, in thirds, and for practical reasons, in stacks of 4–5 (or less). My belt had room for four such stacks, so theoretically $2,000 could be comfortably carried in complete concealment. The nylon buckle was perfectly adequate for its purpose, and nothing about the belt would indicate its hidden purpose. Well worth it." — Tony B.

Get it from Amazon for $17.99+  (available for pant sizes 20"–50" and in six styles). 

19. A pair of toothbrush covers to protect from germy items in your toiletry bag. The cover uses thymol to deter bacterial growth for an immaculate clean every time and is so much less bulky than that travel tube.

Promising review: "This is great for travel and at home. It's roomy enough for most toothbrushes and smells fresh. Also has a text-based alarm that will alert you when it's time to change it." — Nichole

Get a pack of two from Walmart for  $5.83.

20. A mini bottle of  Tower 28 Daily Rescue Facial Spray  made without alcohol, oil, or fragrance to help minimize irritation and redness. One product that does the work of half your skincare routine *and* is small enough to fit in a cosmetics bag — what's not to love?

Tower 28 is a LA-based woman-owned small business that creates nontoxic, vegan, and cruelty-free beauty products for all skin types. 

Promising review: "I was afraid to use this product because I have sensitive skin but I absolutely love it! It has helped clear up my skin so much, especially my forehead area. I also discovered that this product helped with my sunburn! It alleviated my itchy and burning skin overnight!" — Mia0921

Get it from Sephora for $12 .

21. A  heatless curling rod  so you can leave the bulky hot tools at home *without* giving up the coils you love. It's pretty foolproof, too — simply wrap your hair around the headband before you go to bed, and you'll wake up to big curls.

The set includes a curling rod, two hair scrunchies, a claw hair clip, and two duckbill hair clips to set it in place. You can use this on all hair types, but reviewers say it works best when used with damp hair!

Promising review: "Before purchasing, I’d seen a lot of reviews and tutorials on TikTok showing the results. My hair is thick, coarse, and naturally wavy, so I figured this might be a good alternative to rollers that are time-consuming to put in, difficult to sleep in, and ultimately not worth it. And MAN was I right to be hopefu l. Wrap pieces of damp hair around it before bed, the tighter the wrap, the tighter the curl. Easy to sleep in since there’s nothing on the back of your head, and my curls are BOUNCY the next morning . My only complaint is that it doesn’t help give any top-volume, but nothing some teasing can’t fix. 10/10. I’ll never go back to a curling iron ." — Mariah

Get it from Amazon for $7.99 (available in four colors). 

22. A pack of antibacterial wipes for cleaning up after gas station bathrooms or during long plane rides. Reviewers love that these don't dry out your hands like other products (I'm looking at you, Purell).

Promising review: "A must-have in your purse or car with young children. When hand sanitizer is not enough and you need to remove grime as well as disinfect. This product is perfect in travel size!!!!" — Vettie

Get a pack of 20 from Target for $1.99 .

23. Maybelline's Instant Age Rewind Concealer  that can take the place of most of the makeup crowding your toiletry bag.  Reviewers love that just a little bit of this product goes a long way and gives skin a healthy, radiant glow.

Promising review: "I personally like this product. Throughout high school (I recently graduated in June), I never knew how to do makeup. But then I heard this product was the absolute best on TikTok. And trust me, they were not lying. It has really good coverage and hides my 'raccoon eyes.' And the beat part is that a little bit goes a long way. So if you’re starting out or want to try something new I definitely recommend to try this out .<3" — Liela Lee

Get it from Amazon for $8.80+  (available in 23 shades).

24. A packable hat in case of a hair emergency. The mid-weight material can be smashed into a bag, worn in the ocean, and thrown in the washing machine.

Promising review: "Have had skin cancers on my face, so hats are a must wherever I go outdoors! This hat folds up nicely, takes minimal room, and provides plenty of protection! " — s. Marshall

Get it from Amazon for   $16.99+ (available in eight colors).

25. A tech accessory organizer that will keep all your cords, chargers, converters, and what-have-yous corralled in your bag. It has a ton of pockets for all of your gadgets, so you never have to choose between bringing a charger for your iPad or your headphones.

Promising review: "I use this organizer regularly and just purchased this one for my husband. I love that it keeps all my cords and accessories in one place. I am able to store two six foot cords for my iPad and Kindle plus plugs and a 10 ft cord for my iPhone including the plug. I also have room for AirPods and USB to USB-C converters. The pockets are great for small items and I don’t have to worry about losing small items when pulling the cords out. The organizer is sturdy and well made. It fits into my travel backpack without taking up a lot of space. " — Zilla

Get it from Amazon for $7.85+ (available in two sizes and 22 colors).

26. A flying USB port  to juice up all your devices when there's only one outlet available and your AirPods, phone, and tablet are all on the verge of dying before your flight. Well, there's no need to fear because Multitasky is here! This has four USB outlets so all your tech will be powered up for hours.

Multitasky is a small business founded by Julia Xu in 2020. They're known for their adorable and functional tech products, including power banks, laptop accessories, and more!

Promising review:  "It does as it says it does, allowing my Dell XPS15 to operate a pair of USB devices from my lightning port! The laptop has two USB ports, one of which is always occupied by my USB mouse dongle and the other by my protected USB drive. If I wanted to plug in my phone to switch data or add another thumb drive to transfer a device, everything might have to be disconnected, but not anymore. It was really worth it." — Liberty

Get it from Multitasky for $25  (available in three colors). 

27. And a set of  pocket scrunchies  because you need to carry your little necessities with you and don't have pockets. The hidden zipper in these will allow you to tuck your lip balm, cash, and keys inside and keep them secured. 

Promising reviews: " I bought this because of someone on TikTok who had purchased this. Extremely convenient and cute! They’re very soft, and I’ve been using mine to hold cash and lip balm. I wish there were more colors!" — Michaela

"I bought these since I was going on a long vacation by myself. I rolled my money and was able to fit it inside the scrunchie. It’s soft, very stretchy and fits my wrist! I didn’t have any issues with the zipper. I wore it on my wrist all the time and put money/lip balm inside it. It worked great during my vacation. This would be perfect to stash some things inside!" — Jessica Sandoval

Get a pack of three from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in six color combinations).

Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.

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TSA breaks record for most individuals screened on a single day, readies for record-breaking Independence Day weekend travel volumes

WASHINGTON — As airline passengers prepare to take to the skies this Independence Day holiday, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is prepared for a sustained period of high passenger volumes. TSA expects to screen more than 32 million individuals from Thursday, June 27 through Monday, July 8, which is a 5.4% increase over 2023 Independence Day holiday travel volumes. On Sunday, June 23, TSA broke the record for most people screened on a single day, screening nearly 3 million (2.99 million) individuals . This summer’s record-breaking travel volumes reflect the role TSA and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) have in securing the nation’s transportation systems, while ensuring freedom of movement for people and commerce, which is vital to our country’s economic well-being.

TSA anticipates the peak travel day will be Friday, June 28, when the agency expects to screen more than 3 million individuals. TSA is staffed to meet its wait time standards, which are 10 minutes and under in TSA PreCheck lanes and 30 minutes and under in standard screening lanes. Seven of the top 10 busiest travel days ever have occurred over the past month.

“We expect this summer to be our busiest ever and summer travel usually peaks over the Independence Day holiday,” said TSA Administrator David Pekoske. “Compared to last year, we have cut our attrition rates by almost half and increased our recruiting as a result of the TSA Compensation Plan that was funded in the budget passed by Congress and signed into law by President Biden. The traveling public is on the move, which is a sign of a healthy economy. We are ready, along with our airline and airport partners, to handle this boost in passenger volumes.”

Airline passengers should be aware that security screening technologies may vary by airport. Although TSA follows strict standardized screening protocols, it is important for passengers to arrive early and listen to the guidance provided by Transportation Security Officers (TSOs).

Below are some frequently asked questions that provide an overview of the TSA technologies and procedures individuals may encounter during screening process.

Do I need to show a boarding pass to the TSA officer?

All airline passengers must have their acceptable ID and boarding pass ready at the security checkpoint entrance.

Do I need to take off my shoes?

TSA requires individuals in standard screening lanes to remove their shoes during the screening process. However, individuals 12 and under or 75 and older are always permitted to keep their shoes on during the security screening process.

Passengers with TSA PreCheck may leave their shoes on unless they alarm during screening. Most airports have dedicated TSA PreCheck lanes during some peak hours. Some airports have blended lanes where passengers with TSA PreCheck are screened in standard lanes, but they will receive a card indicating they have TSA PreCheck to carry with them during screening, and will be screened as a TSA PreCheck passenger.

Can family members go through the TSA PreCheck lane with me?

Teenagers aged 13-17 may accompany TSA PreCheck enrolled parents or guardians through screening when traveling on the same reservation and when the TSA PreCheck indicator appears on the teen’s boarding pass. Children 12 and under may accompany an enrolled parent or guardian in the TSA PreCheck lanes without restriction. This benefit is another reason to join the nearly 20 million people who have enrolled in TSA PreCheck. For customer flexibility, there are three TSA PreCheck enrollment providers from which passengers may choose: Telos, CLEAR and IDEMIA. For more information on any of the enrollment provider options and TSA PreCheck, visit www.tsa.gov/precheck .

Other advice from TSA

With more than 430 federalized, commercial airports nationwide, 685 security checkpoints and 2,412 security screening lanes, it may be challenging to know what to expect at any airport. Here are some additional tips to help ensure an efficient screening experience:

• Pack smart. Always start packing with a bag that is empty to ensure there are no prohibited items present during security screening. Place electronics larger than a cell phone and travel size liquids at the top of your carry-on so they can be easily accessible if they must be removed. Remember that all liquids must be 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or less if they are in your carry-on bag.
• Arrive at the airport two hours before scheduled boarding time. Allow ample time to park,  navigate to the terminal, check luggage with the airline if needed and proceed through the checkpoint. Most flights board 30-45 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time.
• Review guidelines for traveling with children. Airlines may request proof of age documentation during check-in for children 12 and under traveling unaccompanied. Proof of age documentation must also be provided for children two and under planning to sit on an adult passenger’s lap. A birth certificate is an acceptable proof of age.
• Get assistance prior to traveling. Do you have a question about an item and whether or not it is allowed through security screening? Download the MyTSA app and use the “What Can I Bring?” feature to determine whether an item is allowed or prohibited in carry-on luggage. You may also snap a picture of an item and send it to @AskTSA on X (formerly Twitter) or Facebook Messenger for real-time assistance. Passengers may text their question to TSA by texting “Travel” to AskTSA (275-872). Passengers who need additional assistance through security screening may request a TSA  Passenger Support Specialist (PSS). A PSS is a TSO who has received specialized training, including how to effectively assist and communicate with individuals with disabilities, medical conditions or those who need additional screening assistance. Individuals should request passenger assistance at least 72 hours in advance by contacting  our TSA Cares passenger support line  at (855) 787-2227. Live assistance for both the TCC and TSA Cares is available weekdays, 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET, or weekends and holidays from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET.
• Double-check your luggage tags. Many bags look alike, so passengers should tag every piece of checked luggage with their name and address. We also recommended they include additional addresses inside each bag in the event the outside tag falls off. When retrieving checked luggage at baggage claim, it is important that individuals check the tags to ensure they have picked up the correct bag.
• Do you carry a firearm? Prepare, pack and declare. Passengers may travel with a firearm , but it must be secured as the passenger’s checked baggage; packed unloaded; locked in a hard-sided case and declared to the airline when checking in at the airline ticket counter. Firearms are prohibited at security checkpoints, in the secure area of an airport and in the passenger cabin of an aircraft, even if a passenger has a concealed carry permit or is in a constitutional carry jurisdiction. TSA does not confiscate or seize firearms. If a passenger brings a firearm to the security checkpoint on their person or in their carry-on luggage, the TSO will contact local law enforcement to safely unload and take possession of the firearm. Law enforcement may also arrest or cite the passenger, depending on local law. TSA may impose a civil penalty up to almost $15,000, and for the first offense, passengers who bring a firearm to a security checkpoint will lose TSA PreCheck® eligibility for five years. Second violations will result in permanent disqualification from the program and additional civil penalties.
• Do you have TSA PreCheck? Make sure your Known Traveler Number (KTN) is in your airline reservation. TSA PreCheck passengers do not need to remove shoes, belts, 3-1-1 liquids, laptops, food items and light jackets at the TSA checkpoint. TSA’s wait time standards for TSA PreCheck lanes are under 10 minutes whereas as standard lanes are under 30 minutes. If you are not yet enrolled in TSA PreCheck, you may enroll via one of TSA’s authorized enrollment providers starting as low as $77.95 for a five-year membership. Most new enrollees receive their KTN within three to five days. Members may renew membership online up to six months prior to expiration for another five-year term starting as low as $68.95. Visit TSA PreCheck at www.tsa.gov/precheck for more information, and to begin your enrollment.
• Respect frontline aviation workers. Violence and unruly behavior in airports and onboard aircraft are not acceptable and will result in significant delays at security checkpoints. TSOs, along with all frontline airport and airline employees and local law enforcement, are working together to ensure safe and secure travel. Assaulting a TSA employee is a federal offense and will result in penalties and/or arrest.

Every product is independently selected by our editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.

35 Travel Essentials for Any Length of Trip

For more of the Cut’s favorite fashion, beauty, and home finds,  sign up for the weekly  Cut Shop newsletter .

There’s something about traveling that is equal parts excitement and stress, especially when it comes time for you to bust out your suitcase and prepare to pack. What comes along with you can vary tremendously depending on the length of your trip and the occasion. Thankfully, the Cut Shop team has traveled far and wide, and has picked up a few tips, tricks, and essentials for packing well. Regardless of whether it’s a quick weekend escapade or a whole month abroad, here are the 39 best travel essentials worth taking along, listed according to the length of time spent away from home.

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➼ For Overnight Trips ➼ Weekend Trips and Excursions ➼ Anywhere From Five Days to a Week and a Half ➼ Two Weeks or Longer ➼ A Month or More

. For Overnight Trips

Whether you’re only traveling ten minutes away for a staycation or venturing to a nearby city for a day, overnight trips can be just as challenging to pack for as longer ones. Our best tip is try to be strategic about stowing all the necessities in a larger tote ba g.

Keep all your chargers and cords organized and untangled in one place. This little case makes sure you can actually find what you are looking for, especially in the depths of a big bucket-shaped bag.

The Nap Dress is comfortable enough for any road trip or train ride or even to sleep in. You really can’t go wrong — it’s like wearing your pajamas but still looking totally presentable. We particularly like the wrinkle-resistant navy dress for easy wear on the road.

This three-pack of pouches might be one of The Cut Shop ream’s favorite purchases. Perfect for everyday use, the pouches are great for housing everything from makeup to dirty clothes to receipts. We always have one in our bags, no matter if we’re leaving the house for a night, an hour, or a whole week.

Perfect for event-specific travel, this tote doubles as a garment bag, protecting those special-occasion outfits. It has just enough space to also pack a pair of shoes you do not want to commute in.

One of the best tinted moisturizers out there, this option from Saie offers hydration and some SPF and will give you light coverage with a dewy glow. When you can’t bring your entire medicine cabinet, this is a great option that combines a bunch of products in a multistep routine.

Because hydration is always important, especially when you’re traveling.

Just because you’re not doing your skin-care routine in your bathroom at home doesn’t mean your skin should suffer. This ice rollers will fit perfectly in your toiletry bag and come in handy first thing in the morning.

Sometimes on those quick trips, we push washing our hair an extra day (or three) so we can leave all our heat tools at home. With some dry shampoo and a cute hair claw , no one has to know.

. Weekend Trips and Excursions

Whether you are heading out of town for a wedding, trying to get away for a little R&R, or traveling for work, when it comes to packing a weekender or a smaller suitcase, organization is key.

There are so many options out there for weekender bags, but this water-repellent tote from Béis ticks all our boxes including the trolley pass-through pocket to attach to your suitcase and save your shoulders. This one is just over $100.

Most of the time, travel is associated with flying, but whether by choice or not, sometimes the trip involves hours of car time. A phone mount changes the game on a long road trip and is definitely safer.

For those longer flights where you are in a confined space and not moving around as much (looking at you, window-seat fliers), compression socks can help reduce swelling and discomfort in the legs and feet.

Weekend trips can sometimes mean a jam-packed itinerary, so when you want to sleep, you want to snooze uninterrupted. Enter Loop, a reusable silicone earplug that allows you to get the ultimate fit (it comes in four sizes) so you can get in that power nap.

Forgetting your sunglasses on vacation, especially when headed somewhere sunny, is a rookie mistake, which is why this pair from Le Specs is perfect to just keep in your weekend bag so you are never without.. They’re stylish, sturdy, and under $70 , in case you end up losing or breaking them.

Normally, travel containers are not the most stylish or multifunctional. But these Cadence capsules are both of those things. Unlike traditional travel containers, these can be used for anything from storing pills and skincare products to necklaces and hand cream. Plus, you can design your own set to include different labels and colors

You can never go wrong with a classic button-up . It’s a must-have for any trip, especially a weekend one when space is limited. Wear it on its own, with a dress or pants, or as a bathing suit cover-up.

The Tower28 spray is our skin-care savior , and if you’re looking to pack minimally for weekend trips, this needs to be in the toiletry bag. Perfect for sensitive skin, it’s multifunctional, and a spritz delivers a refreshing dose of hydration and soothes stressed-out skin.

Not only do books take up valuable real estate in a carry-on, they add a bit of weight too. A Kindle is so low profile and light that we do not even think twice about tossing it in our bag. It also saves us time doing the math on how many books we should be bringing on a trip because our next read is just a Wi-Fi connection away.

If you’re skipping the carry-on, this is an easy way to organize your beauty routine now that you’ve condensed it into teeny bottles and containers. The recycled faux -leather bag zips closed and features enough compartments to keep everything neat and organized.

. Anywhere From Five Days to a Week and a Half

A full-fledged trip that still limits you to a carry-on may be the most difficult to pack for. Europe,Cabo, our parents’ house, it’s all about making the most of the room you have, even if you can’t help but pack all your sunglasses , expensive skin care, and cute outfits.

This cashmere cardigan is amazing on its own or as a layering piece in case you get chilly en route or in your hotel room. When you’re packing a carry-on, the more pieces you have that you can wear multiple different ways, the better.

Sometimes you just can’t decide which sunglasses to bring, especially if you are going somewhere extra-sunny. This protective case from Dagne Dover allows you to bring three pairs in a very compact and convenient case that is easy to hang up when you get to your final destination.

There is a reason you can’t travel without seeing one of these suitcases. It fits in the overhead bin of most major U.S. airlines and allows travelers enough room to store all their belongings while remaining light, sturdy, and sleek. Plus, it comes in seven attractive colors and has a USB external battery for those extra-long travel days. It is an essential for the majority of trips you will probably take.

We love using packing cubes when we need to keep a duffel bag from becoming total chaos or for just staying organized when we’re traveling somewhere where we will be doing a wide range of activities that require very different wardrobe options. These packing cubes from Calpak are cute and will help bring some order to a carry-on.

Whether you are in the window seat and do not want to disturb your neighbors to wash your hands or need to do a quick clean after pumping gas on a road trip, having some sort of hand sanitizer while traveling is a good idea. This one from Aesop obviously smells amazing.

. Two Weeks or Longer

It’s time to check your bags. Fill your carry-on with the essentials and save the rest for your suitcase. Opt for two-in-one products, space-saving containers, and clothes you can dress up or down. Pro tip: Don’t forget to invest in a luggage tracker to make sure your suitcase arrives when you do.

Wearing trousers on a plane not only saves room in your suitcase but also makes you feel more put-together on the go. These comfy but tailored pants from Uniqlo can be worn casually or dressed up, making them the perfect pair to travel in for long periods.

A two-in-one product that is perfect for face and lips is a godsend on the road, and this Merit lightly tinted balm is highly rated. It is the perfect product to throw in your bag for when you want to do a real quick touch-up, no matter where you are. Not to mention it’s one of our senior shopping editor’s favorite cream blushes .

The pinnacle of traveling well comes down to one word: Rimowa. The cases are classic, luxurious, and durable, though definitely a splurge. If you’re traveling for long stretches of time, and often, they can be worth the price point.

Pets under 20 pounds are allowed to fly in a carrier under the seat in front of you, and this stylish option from Wild One opens into a bed so your pet can relax at the gate before you both board.

Most fragrances do not come in a three-ounce bottle, and it can be quite a risk to send a glass bottle in your checked bag, so it might be safer to opt for something like this. Even when you are not traveling, these little cases are convenient to throw in a bag so that you always can carry around your favorite scent.

. A Month or More

We’re way past suggesting hand cream and new luggage because, at this point, you’re practically moving to your destination. These are the things that upgrade you from a casual traveler to a pro and will make your longer flights and longer stays more comfortable

Carrying an extra six pounds might seem a bit excessive, but if you’re on a long flight and you’re staying over a month in your new destination, you might as well be as cozy and comfortable as possible. This travel0size weighted blanket from Bearaby comes in its own duffel bag, so it can easily be your personal item or be checked in with no problem.

Want to be able to still do full glam while you’re away? This rechargeable and slim travel vanity mirror will help your makeup look flawless no matter your lighting situation.

You may have seen this on your TikTok FYP. It allows you to connect your Bluetooth headphones (hello, AirPod Maxes ) to airplane screens, so you can watch your favorite comfort movie or episode of Sex and the City without worrying about bringing a corded pair or needing to purchase those cheap plane headphones in the air.

Like a weighted blanket for your eyes, this eye mask is sleep enhancing (perfect for long flights and jumping through timezones) and made from super soft silk.

Chances you’ll come back from vacation with more clothes than you went there with are high, so consider packing this foldable nylon tote to hold all your overstock.

Travel with ease knowing that your necklaces won’t get tangled and all your earrings are safe and sound in one place.

This pill case also came from our TikTok FYP and is small enough to fit in any purse, but has enough storage to hold all your medicine, vitamins, and supplements.

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NBC Select Travel Awards 2024: The best hardshell and softshell suitcases

At NBC Select, we spend hours researching, testing and reviewing products so that you can be more selective and informed about the things you buy. For our first-ever NBC Select Travel Awards, we spent months thoroughly testing travel gear covering various categories.

We traveled across the globe to Tokyo with hardshell suitcases and packing cubes , commuting to and from our New York City office with weekenders and duffel bags and tried toiletry bags , noise-canceling headphones and more.

After all of our testing, we collected thoughtful feedback for every product. After sifting through all editors’ reviews, we found the products deserving of the Travel Award winner’s stamp of approval.

Below, we rounded up the best hardshell and softshell suitcases, plus information about how we evaluated each product.

SKIP AHEAD How we picked the best hardshell and softshell suitcases | Best hardshell suitcases | Best softshell suitcases

select We took over 30 duffels, backpacks and weekenders on planes, trains and more for our Travel Awards. These are the best

How we picked the best hardshell and softshell suitcases.

Arguably one of the most important types of bags you’ll take with you on a long-haul trip, a great hardshell and softshell suitcase should be durable, spacious, easy to maneuver and able to hold up well against scratches, scuffs and potential damage (especially if you regularly check in your bags).

• Durability: Overall, we wanted to see that once the bag was fully packed, it was easy to pull and roll around on various surfaces, including carpet, tile and pavement. We also wanted to see if the fully packed suitcases held their shape well with items like clothes and shoes inside. Plus, it was important to ensure that the suitcases held up well against elements such as water or accidental spills.
• Maneuverability: Similar to durability, we prioritized maneuverability in the hardshell softshell suitcases we tested. We wanted to ensure the handles weren’t flimsy or prone to breaking, especially after pulling and handling the bag for hours. Additionally, we wanted to make sure the suitcases were relatively easy for the average person to lift and carry if they plan on using them as carry-ons.
• Spaciousness: We wanted to make sure the suitcases we awarded had sufficient room to hold common articles of clothing such as t-shirts, pants, shorts, underwear, and certain types of shoes. Ideally, the bag would hold at least a few days' worth of outfits. We also wanted to make sure they were compatible with packing cubes, which help to keep belongings more organized. 

Best hardshell suitcases 

Best overall hardshell suitcase: away the bigger carry-on.

Away The Bigger Carry-On

Away’s The Bigger Carry-On is the best overall hardshell suitcase because it delivered when it came to all of our testing criteria. This Away suitcase, as the name implies, is a subtly larger version of the brand’s standard carry-on suitcase. The bag can fit multiple packing cubes and has ample room for clothing, toiletries and shoes. It also comes with a small bag for storing dirty laundry.

Additionally, it comes with a TSA-approved lock, which NBC Select associate reporter Bianca Alvarez found useful during her travel testing.  “I loved using this carry-on and was able to pack roughly around 10 days worth of clothes with the help of packing cubes,” she says. “I also thought that the inside features were convenient.” Aside from space for clothing, it also has straps and buckles, which help flatten and secure the items in the bag, which makes it easier to close. The handle is easy to adjust and the wheels roll smoothly and handle various surfaces well, whether upright or at an angle.

Best lightweight hardshell suitcase: Quince 21” Carry-On

Quince 21” Carry-On

During our testing, we found that the Quince 21” Carry-On balances durability and maneuverability well. While the suitcase keeps belongings safe and secure, it’s also easy to lift and place in an overhead compartment or into the trunk of a car, especially when it is fully packed. NBC Select associate updates editor Zoe Malin tested the bag and loved how well it handled different terrain. “I dragged this bag through the streets of New York, on multiple flights, checked and not checked, and dragged it up flights of stairs and it looks great,” she says. While the bag is prone to some scrapes (the case with many hardshell bags), it comes with a small sponge to help wipe scuffs away.

Best budget hardshell suitcase: Bagsmart Carry-On  

Bagsmart Carry-On

The Bagsmart Carry-On can hold a surprisingly large amount given its size, according to NBC Select managing editor Leah Ginsberg, who tested the bag. “I was really impressed by this carry-on. Its dimensions are smaller than the average carry-on,” she says. “But it held a lot of things and the quality is good for the price.” The suitcase is slightly smaller than the standard carry-on size for most major airlines but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice space for storing clothing or other travel items. It also has 360-degree wheels, an adjustable handle with four heights, TSA-approved locks on the zippers, multiple compartments for organizing clothes and an expandable zipper on the side.

Best softshell suitcases 

Best overall: thule subterra 2 carry-on spinner.

Thule Subterra 2 Carry-On Spinner

Thule’s Subterra 2 suitcase is the perfect softshell carry-on for your travel needs, whether you’re using it for a quick trip or taking it on a long-haul vacation. Former NBC Select editorial operations manager Shari Uyehara says that while testing the bag, it “helped make traveling a lot easier” — she loves its sleek, stylish design, and how well it’s held up after multiple trips. It’s made from a polycarbonate shell and a durable nylon/polyester blend that’s designed to be water-resistant and to withstand the impact of travel wear and tear, according to the brand.

The suitcase also includes an easily-accessible removable panel that compresses your clothes to maximize packing space, which Uyehara says she loves most of all. “I love how spacious it is and that it can easily hold all of my items,” she says. She also says that, compared to other carry-on suitcases she’s tried, this one is lightweight and very easy to wheel around.

Best lightweight: Calpak Luka Soft Sided Carry-On

Calpak Luka Soft Sided Carry-On

Malin, who’s never used soft-shell luggage before, says that this suitcase is “ideal to use for a short trip”, because of its spacious yet lightweight design. When testing the suitcase for a weekend trip, Malin says she fit three full day outfits, three pairs of pajamas and three workout outfits inside of the suitcase’s main compartment, plus underwear, bras and socks.

It’s made from Calpak’s puffy, polyester Luka material, which the brand says is designed to withstand travel — the flexible material also makes it easier to close (and overstuff, according to Malin). The carry-on also has 360-degree spinner wheels and two front pockets with a padded laptop compartment, which Malin says is her favorite part of the bag. “The sleeve makes it really easy to take my laptop out, which would be super helpful if I was going through security at the airport,” she says. Malin says she can store extras like her resistance bands and Bala bangles in the larger part of the pocket, and it’s an easy bag to wipe clean.

Why trust NBC Select?

Products underwent an eight-week trial before being selected as our favorite in their respective categories. We utilized our editors as shopping and trying experts. Each editor was given the same criteria during the testing period to ensure each item was held to the same standards and procedures. We looked at spaciousness, durability, comfort, zippers and much more. You can read more about our process here .

What our badge means

When a product carries the NBC Select badge, you can trust that our team of editors as shopping experts and professionals vetted the item thoroughly. First and foremost, we are journalists, so we will always do our research and reporting.

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

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Convertible Garment Duffel Bag for Travel, Carry On Garment Bags With Toiletry Bag, Large Weekender Bag for Men Women 2 in 1 Hanging Suitcase Suit Travel Duffel Bags (2pcs Set, Pink Diamond)

Purchase options and add-ons

• Convertible Garment Bag: Large garment duffel bag(Size:21"L*11.5"W*13"H) for suits or dresses. This convertible 2 in 1 garment bag set has everything you need for any type of travel, from business trips to weekend getaways.
• Waterproof Shoes Pocket: A side separate waterproof pocket is a separate storage area from the main compartment of the garment duffel bag, helping you keep your shoes, wet/dirty clothes organized and separate from your other belongings. The water-resistant material of the shoes pocket can be easily wiped clean with a damp cloth, making it simple to maintain.
• Garment Duffel Bag with Suitcase Trolley Sleeve: Back side sleeve allows you to easily slide your bag onto the handle of your suitcase trolley, making it more convenient and comfortable to transport. There also a zip pocket for holding your smartphone, IDs or passport which you need to quick access.The garment duffel bag comes with multiple carry options, allowing you to easily switch between carrying the bag over your shoulder or sliding it onto your suitcase trolley.
• Versatile Travel Garment Bag: Comes with adjustable & detachable straps (length range:25"-48") for different carry way. The garment duffel bag offers multiple pockets and compartments to easily store your clothing, accessories, toiletries and other items to keep your belongings organized. The built-in garment hanging pocket ensures that your formal wear, suit or dress will always stay neat and flat during your trip, without worrying about wrinkles and deformation.
• High Quality Duffel Bag: This travel garment bag combines the garment bag and a travel duffel bag into one unit. Made with durable fabrics, smooth zippers, comfortable handles, this travel garment bag is built to withstand wear and tear and easy to carry. The garment bag also folds down for easy storage when not in use. This duffel bag is perfect for the modern traveler looking for style and functionality.

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Product information

Warranty & support, product description.

TIBES Convertible 2 in 1 Travel Garment Duffel Bag

Our Garment Duffel Bag will revolutionize the way you travel.No more sacrificing style for convenience. This garment bag seamlessly combines fashion and function, allowing you to carry your clothes in style while keeping them wrinkle-free. Imagine arriving at your destination with perfectly pressed outfits, ready to take on any occasion.

Gone are the days of bulky suitcases and oversized luggage. Our Garment Duffel Bag offers the perfect balance of capacity and portability. With ample room to hold your entire wardrobe, yet compact enough to fit in overhead compartments, this bag is the epitome of practicality.

Packing has never been this easy! Our innovative garment compartment features adjustable straps and buckle closures, keeping your clothes secure and organized during transit. Your favorite dresses, suits, and blouses will stay in place, freeing you from the hassle of re-ironing or rummaging through a messy suitcase.

Combines Travel Duffel Bag and Garment Bag Into One Unit

The Dimension of this travel garment bag: 21*11*12.5inches(L*W*H).

Extended interior garment pocket:21*51 inches.

While you open this garment bag and lay it out, it is a great hanging garment bags for travel. The bag has a built-in garment sleeve that can hold up to two suits or dresses, keeping them wrinkle-free and ready to wear. No more worrying about your clothes getting crushed in transit! TIBES garment bag duffel is made from high-quality materials that are both durable and stylish. The sleek design and neutral color make it a versatile accessory that can be paired with any outfit. So if you're looking for a reliable and stylish travel bag that can keep your clothes looking their best, look no further than our garment duffel bag.

Usage Scenarios for This Travel Garment Bag Include:

Business trips: If you're traveling for work and need to bring a suit or other formal attire, this garment bag can help ensure that your clothes arrive in good condition and ready to wear. It allows for easy organization and quick access to clothing items, ensuring a professional appearance upon arrival.

Camping: Our garment duffel bag can be a versatile companion for outdoor enthusiasts. Its durable construction and high quality materials protect clothing well, making it suitable for camping, hiking, or other outdoor activities.

Weekend getaways: For short trips or weekend getaways, our garment duffel bag provides a convenient way to pack a few outfits and essentials. Its compact size and versatile carrying methods make it ideal for quick trips where packing light is essential.

Sport: This travel garment bag suitable for fitness enthusiasts who want to keep their workout clothes separate from their everyday belongings. It provides designated compartments for garments, shoes, and accessories, making it easy to transition from work or home to the gym or sports activities.

Air travel: If you're flying and want to avoid checking a bag, a garment bag can be a great option for carrying your clothes on board. This garment bag is designed to fit in overhead compartments or under seats provided on airplanes, making them a convenient and practical choice for air travel.

Different Ways of Carrying: Weekender Bag, Carry On Travel Duffel and Shoulder Overnight Bag

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Customers say

Customers like the appearance, size and quality of the luggage. For example, they say it's cute, has a great concept and design, and has lots of pockets for great storage. That said, some complain about the zipper. They say the main zipper didn't stay engaged, the side zippers take patience to close and that the zippers in the side and top don't connect.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers like the quality of the luggage. They mention it's well-made, sturdy, and holds up great. Some say it'll last a long time and is the perfect bag for weekend trips. Overall, customers are satisfied with the quality and price of the product.

" Thus sturdy , spacious bag is amazing. I refuse to check a bag and now I don't. Can pack a lot or a little, including shoes, packing cubes, toiletries" Read more

"I kept seeing these on Facebook so I searched on Amazon. It is the perfect bag when you need nice clothes on your trip, but want to pack more than..." Read more

"...bag…love that it slips over my rolling suitcase and great in overhead storage on the plane ...." Read more

"...It has held up well being full to the brim during my travels...." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the size of the bag. They mention that it has a lot of pockets for great storage, and can hold dresses comfortably. The pockets are easy to get to and the bag is very compact when not in use.

"Thus sturdy, spacious bag is amazing . I refuse to check a bag and now I don't. Can pack a lot or a little, including shoes, packing cubes, toiletries" Read more

"... Great organization pockets !" Read more

"Great It holds everything I had to pack " Read more

"...There was plenty of room inside to add my wedding shoes, travel jewelry case, essential toiletries, sandals, and even a few outfits while still..." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the appearance of the luggage. They mention it has a great concept and design, a lovely color, and is amazing.

"This bag is very cute . If you’re hoping to cram a lot in this bag, go a different avenue. Keep in mind that hangers take up space!..." Read more

"...color, so more orange-brown than I had imagined, but it’s still pretty cute ." Read more

"...So far it has held up to the rigor. Lovely colour " Read more

"...This is super cute . The zippers are all smooth and there is plenty of room to add a laptop/ iPad and personal items when zippered up...." Read more

Customers like the concept of the luggage. They say it's clever and a great use of storage.

"Overall the concept is good , however you need someone to assist holding the sides up so you can zip them...." Read more

"It's clever and great use of storage. Not the bag for someone who doesn't like to empty the bag when you arrive at the hotel." Read more

"... Great concept , but just doesn’t work well" Read more

Customers are dissatisfied with the zipper of the luggage. They mention that the main zipper did not stay engaged, broke the first time they zipped it up, and the side zippers take patience to close.

"...Once packed, side zippers take patience to close . If it’s too packed, zipper separates...." Read more

"Overall I like the bag. However the main zipper did not stay engaged and I had to keep checking that the bag didn’t open" Read more

"...extra room an pockets the only hinderence is the the zippers in the side and top dont connect " Read more

"...reason I gave 4 stars is ONLY because the smaller toiletry bag’s zipper broke almost immediately but that could have been my fault...." Read more

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I’m a Frequent Flier, and I Never Leave Home Without This Spacious, Sleek Weekender Bag

It’s been my go-to carry-on for 3 years — and it never fails to get compliments.

Travel + Leisure / Madison Woiten

“I love your bag,” has become a frequent compliment from fellow travelers or plane seatmates over the past three years since I first started traveling with a July Carry All Weekender Duffle Bag — and I travel a lot. 

At first, I thought they were admiring my crossbody or roller bag but I quickly became accustomed to the direction of their praise. That’s because I love the bag too. 

July Carry All Weekender Duffle

I'm super picky when it comes to my personal items for carry-on — especially as I only ever travel with a carry-on — so it's important that all my bits are organized at all times. Over the last three years of using the bag, I’m still pleasantly surprised at how spacious the bag is and how durable it is despite how much I stuff into it. 

At 10.5 inches by 18 inches by 8.5 inches with a capacity to hold 28 liters, it’s really the perfect size — big enough to fit all my larger personal items, including a 16-inch padded laptop sleeve compartment, but divided enough to keep my smaller items organized, with internal zipped pockets ideally sized for documents, medicine, chargers, or small notebooks, an internal key hook for easy access to keys, a front access zip pocket with two internal compartments, and the brand’s QuickPass hidden pocket with magnetic closure for secure yet seamless access to travel documents. 

Jillian Dara

Even though it offers the two exterior pockets, the bag doesn’t appear bulky whatsoever — in fact, it’s the opposite, sitting sophisticated and stylish atop your rolling carry-on via its convenient, pass-through band. The minimal design is emphasized by its weighted 420D twill nylon fabric that’s lightweight (only 2.2 pounds), water-resistant, and further premiumized by the leather handles and trim.

I have the duffle in the forest green color, but the three other hues available are equally as classic and flattering — French navy, midnight black, and chalk, an off-white with cream and gray undertones. I find my darker color never to have shown stains (reviews say any scuffs on the chalk color are easily spot-cleaned out), the gunmetal zips are as undemanding to zip as day one and even if I had a glitch, the luggage brand’s five-year warranty really assures me that this bag can be my favorite forever.

In addition to rolling my July Carry All Weekender around the airport by using its pass-through band, there are also two other ways to carry it with a handle palm carry as well as an adjustable shoulder strap. I find the handle palm carry the most comfortable but that’s likely because I’m always overpacking the bag and find it less strenuous to carry this way.

Don’t take my word for it? The July Carry All Weekender has 299 five-star reviews with a user percentage of 98 percent who would recommend the product. Crystal H. writes, “I adore this bag so much. It's exactly the "I-need-a-little-more-space-than-my-carry-on-allows" bag that I need for my cross-country hauls.” Liam P. adds, “It’s so organized, the passport pocket is really helpful and accessible side zip perfect for more documents. Has made a big difference to traveling. Fits under the seat on the plane easily.”

Perhaps what I most love about the July Carry All Weekender is its ability to effortlessly elevate my casual plane look. Even if I’m in sweatpants or leggings, I still receive compliments on its streamlined appearance — and who doesn’t love some unsuspecting kindness from a stranger when you least expect it?

Still searching for the perfect weekender carry-on bag? Shop more from our favorite brands below.

More Weekender Carry-on Bags: 

Carrywell travel duffel , fit & fresh neoprene weekender, stuery duffle genuine leather canvas carry on, béis the convertible mini weekender, calpak luka large duffel.

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