Our globetrotting testers packed and schlepped more than 25 duffel bags across concourses and continents to find the best for adventure travel. After months of testing, the Patagonia Black Hole remains the best duffel bag for everything from casual weekend trips to international expeditions. For budget-conscious travelers, we recommend the Eagle Creek Migrate duffel bag.
How we travel has changed immensely over the years. But the luggage? That hasn’t changed much. The duffel bag remains the ultimate adventure luggage, whether you’re catching bullet trains through Japan or trekking with mules through Mexican arroyos.
Why are we still so smitten with this tried-and-true brand of baggage? Born to take a beating, the best duffel bags can withstand heavy-handed baggage handlers, storm-kissed expeditions, and the wear and tear of international travel. Duffels are versatile, too. Not only are they capacious and easy to pack, but unlike boxy suitcases and rollers, they can cram easily into truck beds, taxi trunks, and helicopter luggage bays. You can lash duffels to sleds and roof racks—not to mention yaks, packhorses, camels, and other animals, depending on your destination and the temperament of the critter in question. Many duffel bags also feature multiple carry configurations that allow you to haul, chuck, or sling as needed. From spontaneous weekend trips to meticulously planned backcountry odysseys, the duffel does it all.
We tested more than 25 duffel bags on everything from casual weekend camping trips to serious international expeditions. The nine winners listed here are the best duffel bags you can buy right now.
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