The duffel bag may have evolved over time, but its primary function is the same today as it was in the during the early 20th century - it’s a vessel that transports belongings from A to B with ultimate ease.
Originally a soft construction with a large main compartment designed to be quickly packed, unpacked and stored by soldiers during World War One, the concept has largely stayed the same ever since - if you’ve ever rushed on a Friday night to pack for a long weekend away, you know what I’m talking about.
Like the duffel coat, which brings to mind visions of the cuddly Paddington Bear or the less cuddly Liam Gallagher on the Oasis single cover for Just Roll With It, it takes its name from the Belgian textile-making town of Duffel. Not because they were made there, instead owing to the fact that this is where a hardy, weather-resistant fabric was produced which was originally used to create both designs.
Now, the bag comes in all kinds of fabrications. From a sophisticated leather that will only look better as it ages to a waterproof PU that’s favoured by minimal Scandi labels, with the occasional cotton canvas that wouldn’t look out of place carried on an Ivy League college campus.
The best part? Each and every iteration offers both function and form in a nifty, compact package. Usually featuring multiple compartments, a secure zip closure and an easy-to-carry barrel silhouette - some even boast multiple options on the carrying front - they’re the perfect weekender bag for a 72-hour stay with enough space for clothes, shoes and grooming essentials included.
You can choose from an upright structured design that scores extra style points, or a soft-sided construction which offers optimum cramming and stuffing potential - ideal for budget airlines when space for overhead luggage is minimal and costly.
Whichever you choose, if the last 100 years are anything to go by, it’s an investment that’s sure to stand the test of time.
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Arket 72-Hour 3-Way Duffle Bag
If it’s versatility and functionality you want, then Arket’s 3-way duffel should be going straight in your basket.
You can carry it via the top handles, over the shoulder with the detachable strap or even as a backpack. Better yet, it features plenty of compartments, two hanging pockets, and a laptop sleeve to boot. Perfect for a weekend away.
Buy now £149.00, Arket
Herschel Novel Duffle Ivy Green/Chicory Coffee
Luggage expert Herschel has a comprehensive selection of duffel bags, with a wide range of colourways and sizes on offer. Our favourite is this khaki and coffee brown - an earthy pairing that will never go out of style.
Buy now £89.98, Amazon
Luca Faloni Weekender
All of Luca Faloni’s leather goods are handmade by expert artisans across Italy, so you can count on the finest craftsmanship and materials across the entire range.
This particular bag is crafted in Florence using full grain leather and is the ideal size for a weekend away whether it’s New York or the French Riviera - whichever you choose, you’re sure to be the envy of the flight.
Buy now £695.00, Luca Faloni
Briggs & Riley Weekender Duffle
For a hassle-free trip, go for Briggs & Riley’s Weekender Duffle. It’s sleek, spacious and has useful storage features, as well as the option for a monogram for a personal touch.
Buy now £219.00, Briggs & Riley
Carl Friedrik Palissy Weekend Leather weekend bag
Carl Friedrik’s all-leather design will be your go-to for last minute trips for years to come. The sophisticated black will go with almost any outfit and the hard-wearing leather and upright construction will certainly stand the test of time - both aeshtetics and durability considered.
Buy now £695.00, Carl Friedrik
Gant Archive Shield Duffle Bag
This sporty duffel has vintage appeal thanks to Gant’s ‘Archive Shield’ logo from the 80s. Made using cotton canvas, and featuring an adjustable shoulder strap and inside pocket, it’s the perfect collegiate weekender.
Buy now £90.00, Gant
The Row Brushed-suede holdall
Given the option, we’d dress head to toe in The Row on the daily. Stylish to the nth degree, the entire collection radiates quiet luxury - including this slouchy, brushed-suede holdall. Super soft to the touch with gold-tone hardware, it’s at the top of our wishlist.
Buy now £3250.00, MatchesFashion
Rowing Blazers X Warden Brooks Duke & Duke Banker Bag
Once a fashion faux pas, the classic banker duffel has become something of a coveted aesthetic - whether it’s ironic or cool, Rowing Blazers has hit the nail on the head with their collab with Warden Brooks, the manufacturer of the iconic style.
Elevating the look with a new colourway, logo emblazoned webbed straps and the Rowing Blazers logo patch, it’s a stylish bag for the gym or for an overnight stay.
Buy now £140.00, Rowing Blazers
Rains Duffel Bag Small
The ultimate in minimalistic chic, Rains’ small duffel stays true to the brand’s Scandi heritage. With all of the practical features you could ask for, from the multiple zipped mesh pockets to the wrap-around webbing straps, the large main compartment to the label’s signature waterproof fabric, it’s both functional and stylish.
Buy now £115.00, Rains
Gucci Leather and Webbing-Trimmed Monogrammed Canvas Duffle Bag
The jumbo GG motif and signature red and green stipe on Gucci’s duffel exudes Italian luxury. Perfect for a chic weekend city break or stay at a luxury hotel, this bag is an investment that will last you a lifetime.
Buy now £1740.00, Mr. Porter
