The duffel bag may have evolved over time, but its primary function remains the same today as it was 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 decidedly 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, but instead owing to the fact that this is where the hardy, weather-resistant fabric was produced and was originally used to create both designs.
Now, the bag comes in all kinds of fabrics. 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 iteration offers both function and form in a nifty, compact package. Usually featuring multiple compartments, secure zip closure and an easy-to-carry barrel silhouette - some even boast multiple strap 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.
Keep scrolling for the best.
Lundi Paris Wilson
A bag made for busy exec types, this full-grain leather design is ideal for a few days of travel. There are two external pockets - one for shoes, one for dirty laundry or toiletries - alongside the spacious main compartment.
It’s comfortable to carry too with carry handles and a shoulder strap supported by four buckles to stop it sliding around when you're on the move.
Buy now £620.00, Lundi Paris
Carl Friedrik Palissy Weekend
A handsome weekender for a luxury break, Carl Friedrik's Palissy design is crafted from premium Vachetta leather.
The 30L bag measures 48.6 x 25.6 x 24.5cm and offers enough space to stash at least two days' worth of clothes and toiletries.
Inside, you'll find one zipped pocket and three open compartments, while an external slip pocket means you can keep important documents and tickets within arm's reach.
Thanks to the upright construction, only the metal feet fixed to the bottom will show any real signs of wear, keeping your purchase looking factory-fresh for longer.
Sold with a lifetime warranty.
Buy now £735.00, Carl Friedrik
Mismo M/S Advance Bag
Returning to its military roots, Mismo's luxury bag takes its design cues from a WWII US Army Aviator kit bag. Pairing practicality with pleasingly minimal aesthetics, the large main compartment is complemented with extra storage in the form of a front sleeve to stash slimline tech, a separate laptop pocket and zipped compartments inside the main body of the bag.
It comes with an adjustable shoulder strap. The perfect wingman for quick adventures.
Available in canvas and nylon options.
Buy now £587.60, Mismo
RAINS Hilo Weekend Bag
Dark clouds are never far off here in the UK, but you can guarantee RAINS will guard your precious things from falling raindrops. Its Weekend Bag is made from the same waterproof PU material that's used for the brand's raincoats, finished with signature straps and strong hardware.
You might need packing cubes to organise your things as there's only one main compartment, but it's roomy with enough room to store shirts, light knits and an extra jacket plus tech and toiletries. Available in 11 colours.
Buy now £79.00, RAINS
Steele & Borough The Weekender
A bag that's the product of seven years of considered design, you can be sure that Steele & Borough's Weekender has been fine-tuned down to the very last stitch. Everything from the handles to the zips has been stress-tested to ensure they'll go the distance, no matter what you have on the agenda. The water-repellent exterior sits on metal feet to avoid scuffing on the underside, while the monogrammed lining adds an extra layer of protection from the world for your precious cargo.
Buy now £130.00, Steele & Borough
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 £725.00, Luca Faloni
Gucci Savoy Medium Duffle Bag
The jumbo GG motif and signature red and green stripe 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 £1850.00, Gucci
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 £159.00, Arket
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
Herschel Supply Unisex's Novel Duffle Moonbeam
Luggage expert Herschel has a comprehensive selection of duffel bags, with a wide range of colourways and sizes on offer. Our favourite is this light moonbeam shade that comes with a separate compartment to stash an extra pair of shoes.
Buy now £121.54, Amazon
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 £135.00, Rains
