LifeTuner.com is reader-supported and the following article contain affiliate links, When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
#1 Osprey Packs Transporter 40 Expedition Duffel
Osprey’s Transporter comes in four sizes, 40L to 65L, 95L to 95L and 130L. In this article, we’re concentrating on the 40L version.
This Tardis-like duffel bag, which is small on the outside and large on the interior, doubles up as a backpack thanks to its yoked shoulder strap.
For long walks or adventures, you can carry it on your back. Then, you can put it back in its storage pocket when it is no longer needed. It’s clever additions like this that are synonymous with the Osprey brand and ones that many travelers love and actively look for.
This beauty is made from tough 0.2mm TPU laminated 800D nylon. It is weather-resistant and extremely durable.
The zippers are easy-to-grab and have quick access. The main compartment also has a smooth, lockable UZIP to protect your belongings. For those little extras that you need in transit, there are dual-zippered 3-D end pockets with overlapping rain flaps — perfect for stashing your phone, passport, or wallet.
#2 YETI Panga Submersible Duffel 75
If you know coolers, chances are you know the YETI brand. And it’s no surprise that the company entered the duffel market with a splash. Many models on this list are water resistant—they can withstand wet ground and the occasional rain shower—but the Panga is fully waterproof. You’ll often spot this thick and submergible duffel on rafts, fishing boats, and pretty much anywhere people want the ultimate level of protection for their gear. Made with laminated high-density nylon that feels like rubber, a burly EVA bottom, and a waterproof zipper that locks firmly into place, this duffel is as water-ready and air-tight as you’ll find.
The YETI Panga is too big for most outdoor use. The bag is expensive at $350 and weighs over 6 pounds for the 75 liter version. It also feels thick and rubbery. The bag’s bottom has a prominent imprint and YETI branding. There are logos on both sides. All in all, this isn’t the optimal duffel for the average traveler or for light outdoor use, but it’s hard to beat when you need waterproof protection for your gear (think water sports or protecting important belongings that absolutely cannot get wet). Below is the SealLine WideMouth waterproof duffel.
#3 Marmot Long Hauler Travel Duffel
Available in a choice of four sizes (S, M, L, and XL) it’s the medium bag we’re reviewing in this article. The duffel bag is made of 1000D 100% polyester with TPE laminate. It is extremely strong and can withstand all the bumps and knocks of domestic and international adventures.
The lining is made from wipeable nylon and is ideal for internal leaks, while the bag is reinforced with 100% ballistic nylon for extra strength wherever you’re headed.
This duffel is ideal for overnight bags, checked bags, and even for gym use. It has a D-Shaped main zipper opening that allows for easy access, and haul loops at both ends to make it easy for you to lift. Double bottom provides durability and tough YKK zippers will last many years.
The main compartment is big enough to store your clothes and belongings for long trips. The zippered side pockets are easy to access and make it easy for you to keep your keys, wallet, passport, keys, and cell phone.
There’s also a removable shoulder strap that converts to carrying handles giving you multiple carrying options when you need them.
#4 Gregory Mountain Products Alpaca
The Alpaca Duffel Bag is available in four different sizes (45, 60, 90, and 120 liters) but it’s the rather spacious 90-liter duffel we’re reviewing here.
This bag is made of 900D polyester diamond, ripstop with TPU coated and 630H nylon. This bag is strong! It is also water and tear resistant thanks to the TPU coating.
This bag is quite large, so it can be difficult for people to carry it for long periods of times. The manufacturers have thought of that and given the bag padded backpack straps that can be removed quickly when you don’t need them, using ladder-locks and girth hitches at the top and bottom.
There’s also the option of haul handles with the hook-and-loop wrap for comfy carrying and a daisy cabin should you wish to secure your duffel to a roof rack or a long distance yak.
The lockable zippers are U-shaped, and the entire top panels open fully for easy packing — handy when you’re planning on taking a lot of gear with you.
#5 KPL Vintage Leather Duffel
This vintage-style leather duffel bag makes a great gift. This bag is made from genuine, full-grain leather. The rich natural patina will change over time so it stands out from the rest.
This bag will look great in a first-class cabin or out in the wilderness. A bag like this is a great way to make a statement.
You can store your clothes, shoes and toiletries in one large compartment. The other two zipper pockets on the sides can be used to access items you need immediately, such passports, cell phones, wallets, and other small items. The interior is fully lined in canvas for added functionality and high end style.
The bag’s front, satchel style pocket adds interest.
You might prefer to carry it. The bag comes with two leather handles that are sturdy and durable. These handles will be great for carrying your gear from airport to hotel.
#6 Thule Chasm Duffel Bag
The Thule Chasm Duffel bag comes in a choice of four different sizes (40, 70, 90 and 130 liters), but in this article, we’re looking at the sizable yet easy to carry 70-liter option.
This duffel is made from Phthalate-free TPE laminate and a 1000D nylon basis. It is extremely durable, water resistant, and tear resistant. The bag is available in a variety of attractive colors. The Bluegrass option makes it stand out in crowds.
Thule’s removable backpack straps make it easy to carry your luggage over long distances. Once you’re there, take off the backpack straps and return to the duffel strap.
The large mouth opening allows easy access to your belongings. External compression straps protect your belongings from being pushed to the bottom of the bag when it is in backpack mode.
You will find on the inside small items protected by internal mesh pockets and a zippered side pocket to keep them close at hand.
#7 AmazonBasics Travel duffle bag with wheels
This ripstop wheeled duffel is another great piece of kit from the AmazonBasics range. It comes in a variety of sizes, including a 26-inch, 30-inch, or 35-inch version. They’re also available in multiple colors, such as black, blue, or red. Here we’ll look at the larger 35-inch version.
Its durable design makes it an affordable and practical choice for anyone going on vacation or on adventures. It has a 100% polyester top and sides to protect from the moisture in the air. This bag is made from 1680D ripstop nylon with 210D lining. It is sturdy and well-made for the price.
AmazonBasics knows that you want to bring as much as possible with you so they have included multiple zippered main and front compartments for easy organization and secure storage.
The top is very deep and the opening is wide. It is easy to pack. While the end pockets are ideal for keys, passports, wallets, keys and other small items, the bottom pocket is perfect for keys and cell phone.
The upright, telescopic handle, and inline wheels make it easy to move your gear around. They can also be used to transport it over rougher terrain.