Duffel & Weekender Bags

A duffel is the bag you take when a suitcase is too rigid and a backpack is too small. No frame, no wheels to steer around, just a wide opening and a shape that gives when you push kit into it. The range here runs from 30 L weekenders to a 110 L rolling duffel built for a season's worth of gear.

Choosing a size

• 30–35 L — a long weekend, or a gym and overnight bag that doubles as cabin baggage.
• 40–50 L — a week away for most people, and still within carry-on limits on some models.
• 70 L and up — checked baggage, expedition kit, or gear for more than one person. At this size look for wheels.

Soft duffel or wheeled duffel

A soft duffel is lighter, packs flat when empty and can be carried on your back if it has harness straps. A wheeled duffel adds two to three kilograms but saves your shoulders across a terminal or a car park. If the bag will be full and heavy more often than not, take the wheels.

What to look for

• Opening — a wide U-shaped or full-length zip lets you see everything at once. A narrow top opening means unpacking to find anything.
• Fabric — a coated tarpaulin or high-denier recycled shell sheds rain and scuffs. Untreated canvas looks good and soaks through.
• Carry options — grab handles for short moves, a padded shoulder strap for longer ones, and backpack straps if you will ever carry it any distance.

All duffels ship free across Australia with a 30-day return window.