7 Duffle Bags To Travel With

Tiana Blue | May 23, 2012 | 0 Comments

‘Tis almost the season of summer traveling, so you know what that means—new equipment is in order. If you’re a trendy jet-setter on the next redeye or currently saving up for a summer adventure, a solo getaway to Tahiti or a road trip with the boys won’t be complete without the appropriate luggage. Who’s picking up a ratty tote from baggage claim? Not you.

1. Banana Republic

Basic black is always a safe bet if you’ve got your eyes on several colors. Casual, manly, and not too trendy, this will be the perfect duffel for a few days away from home years to come. And it’s large in scale, so there’d be no need to question whether all the necessities will fit. Except the plasma—that will not fit. $225, bananarepublic.com.

2. Blue Claw Co.

Sometimes basic black could use a pop of color. With this Blue Claw duffel, you get style and protection, as the inner portion of the luggage is covered in waterproof lining. If you’re into the man-bag trend, this is a great piece to wear around the city. $178, blueclawco.com.

3. Zara

This one’s for you, all ye with expensive taste without the money to blow on said expensive taste. Both rich in color and appearance, Zara’s produced a top notch tote with a reasonable price tag to boot. $89.90 USD, zara.com.

4. Urban Outfitters

Although it might not be the best idea, this knapsack-duffel looks like it’d be safe crossing the tundra, or any other tough-guy sort of place. It’s rugged (that beat-up look was done on purpose) and functional. There’s a second handle so you don’t always have to carry it on your back. $49, urbanoutfitters.com.

5. The North Face

It’s called the “Base Camp Duffel.” The name alone screams quality (you wouldn’t bring any old bag to a base camp), longevity (you’d assumedly be at this camp quite a while…) and wild escapades, because camping out is always an undoubtedly good time. Take it anywhere, but don’t be gentle because this duffel was built to endure extremes. Our suggested color of choice is “Baja Blue,” but you’ve got 12 options. $125 – $135, thenorthface.com.

6. Tommy Hilfiger

For a sportier look, choose this crisp, “Stone” white duffel coupled with a nautical shoulder strap. The outside might be made of pesky canvas which wouldn’t last in a rainy day, but the nylon lining provides a barrier that will keep all your belongings dry. Carry this classy piece and convince onlookers you’re heading to Italy even if you’re just taking a trip to grandma’s. $39, usa.tommy.com.

7. Kipling

Kipling keeps it simple: You’re given a cool color (buy it in red), lots of space and it moves (there are wheels). Done! No need for shiny gizmos. And get this—you can detach the first part of the duffel and use that as a single bag, thus eliminating the whole wheels part. How innovative. $249, kipling-usa.com.