Buyer’s Guide :: Best Weekender Duffels

Whether you’re heading off on a spur-of-the-moment weekend getaway, seeking adventure round every bend with a road trip or looking for a stylish flight companion to see you through a short trip, a weekender duffel is one piece you definitely want in your carry quiver. From chic looks to useful organization and hardy build quality that will take every scrape and bump in its stride, our buyer’s guide to the best weekender duffels has something to suit all tastes and priorities…

–

Billykirk No. 166 Large Waxed Canvas Carryall

Suave and sophisticated, this weekender brings a touch of class to your carry. In addition to its stylish looks and durable construction, the No. 166 Carryall includes functional features such as an adjustable shoulder strap, leather luggage tag, two interior pockets and an exterior slot pocket. The expandable design comes in a choice of waxed canvas and leather plus all-leather options. Check out our Road Test to learn more.

Defy Bags R&R Weekender

Available in waxed canvas and M35 military tarp options with Horween leather detailing, this weekender rocks some seriously rugged construction that can handle plane travel, road trips and more like a trooper. A water-resistant YKK zipper, removable shoulder strap, a choice of zipped and slip internal pockets plus a large external slip pocket round out the features of this hard-wearing hauler (and it is tough – we put it to the test here).

Tom Bihn Night Flight Travel Duffle

This versatile bag works hard as a carry-on piece, gym bag, car trip carry and more. A great choice if you like bags with organization options, the Night Flight offers handy side pockets, an inside lid pocket, O-ring attachment points and a wide opening for easy packing and access to your gear. The removable foam padding in the main compartment also provides protection for fragile items. The bag can be carried using the top carry handles, side grab handles which are useful for tight spaces, as well as a shoulder strap. Scope out our Drive By for more information.

Filson Medium Duffel

With its timeless looks and a build that is rugged in both name and quality, Filson’s Medium Duffel is a bag that looks at home in a range of environments, from the airport waiting lounge to the back seat of your car. The water-resistant Rugged Twill and bridle leather construction will stand the test of time, while top carry straps and an adjustable and removable shoulder strap give flexible portability. A storm flap closure helps protect your gear from the elements, and two interior pockets help keep the contents neat and tidy.

Pacsafe Intasafe Z600 Weekender

This weekender gives peace of mind to security-conscious travelers. Understated in appearance with discreet security features such as interlocking zipper pulls, a Roobar anti-theft anchor lock, as well as eXomesh® slashguards in the large quick-access pockets, this bag is a smart way to help keep your gear safe on the go. Top and side carry handles, a shoulder strap, a luggage pass-through sleeve and an interior zipped pocket add extra functionality. Read our Drive By here.

ULTRAOLIVE Pebble Duffel Bag

Merging modern looks with everyday functionality, this duffel bag combines an intriguing pebbled aesthetic in grey/rust and black/grey colorways with water-resistant 1000D Cordura and YKK zips. The interior zipped pocket and gusseted exterior pockets keep your smaller items in order, and a removable shoulder strap and top carry handles let the bag adapt to different carry demands.

Everlane Twill Weekender

Everlane’s Twill Weekender flys the flag for practical carry that doesn’t bust the bank – not surprising for a brand that values transparent pricing. A water-resistant cotton twill exterior, leather detailing and protective feet all play their part in withstanding the knocks and scrapes that are an unavoidable part of travel. The bag comes in a selection of colorways to suit your own style, with an interior zipped pocket to keep items such as your phone or wallet within easy reach.

Briggs & Riley Large Weekender

With its sleek looks this weekender is ready to do carry duty in both work and leisure settings. It’s not just sharp looks though. The bag packs plenty of practical features such as internal and external pockets, a shoulder strap and carry handles, plus a slip-through back pocket that serves as extra storage or a luggage pass-through sleeve. The light-colored lining lets you locate items quickly, while the large opening gives convenient access to the main compartment and the expandable design comes in handy if you’ve gone on a souvenir shopping spree.

Tanner Goods Nomad Duffel

This handsome hauler has a tough build to complement its good looks, making it suitable for a range of demanding carry uses. Available in either attractive waxed canvas or Salt & Pepper canvas with vegetable-tanned Cambara English bridle leather and brass hardware, this is a bag that will draw appreciative glances. Organization is catered for with interior pockets and two gusseted exterior pockets, and the ability to expand the bag means you can squeeze in a little extra as needed.

Topo Designs Duffel

The streamlined design lends minimalist appeal to this trusty duffel with its tough 1000D Cordura build that’s ready to work hard at home or away. The top carry handles and removable shoulder strap let you alternate how you want to carry the bag, while leather lash tabs provide external attachment options and interior zipped pockets means you don’t need to dig around for smaller items.

Whipping Post Military Duffel

This beauty of a bag is definitely one for the leather lovers out there, with vegetable-tanned leather up for the challenge of hauling gear around the world or just as easily carrying your gym clothes in style. Taking inspiration from canvas military bags, the duffel is top-loading and can be carried using the shoulder strap or carry handle. Plus it also comes with a useful luggage tag.

Able Archer Duffel

If you’re after a bag with tactical looks and no shortage of organization, the Able Archer Duffel hits the mark. The main compartment has water-resistant zips to keep the elements at bay, and the suspended 15-inch laptop sleeve even has its own water-resistant zip. The sleeve also acts as an internal divider but can be removed if desired. Another handy feature is the concealed and separate shoe or tripod storage on either end of the bag, and side pockets with internal organization so you can keep important items within easy reach. The external webbing also provides a helping hand for carrying awkwardly-shaped or larger items.

Trakke Droma

Trakke are known for their hard-wearing, no-nonsense bags and the Droma is no exception. Constructed out of durable waxed cotton and Italian leather, this stylish and multifunctional piece suits urban settings and outdoor adventures alike. Water-resistant zips and a leather base offer protection against Mother Nature and rough surfaces, while two exterior pockets and one interior pocket prevent a gear free-for-all. Haul it with the carry straps for short distances or sling it over your shoulder when you’re on the move.

DSPTCH Weekender

You like things simple and fuss-free. So does the DSPTCH Weekender. There’s no messing about here, just a focus on functional design that can work hard and play hard. The main interior is clean in design, though the bag comes with a packing cube for organization. Two exterior pockets keep important items close at hand, and a choice of top and end handles and a shoulder strap provide versatile portability. The water-resistant 1680D ballistic nylon construction is tough enough to withstand plane, train and car travel, not to mention everyday use for about-town errands.

Bomber & Company Bomber Barrel

Stealthy style partners up with lightweight construction and a host of features to make the Bomber Barrel a blast for everyday and travel use. This weather-resistant bag is constructed using ripstop nylon and water-resistant zippers. The emergency paracord zipper pulls are on standby if the going gets tough, while a padded quick-release shoulder strap and carry handles with a padded grip provide user comfort. Small items can be stored in either the interior or exterior pocket, and the Bomber Barrel also comes with a Mini Travel Kit, another lightweight piece to keep your travel essentials in order.