When it comes to planning your next big travel adventure, thinking about your luggage is probably not high on your priority list. But take it from us—a smartly designed carry-on suitcase, a rugged and waterproof duffel, or a versatile bag that can morph from duffel to backpack at the drop of a shoulder strap—can go a long way to mitigating travel woes (and let’s face it, those are almost guaranteed these days).
Over the course of two years, we tested twenty five duffels, suitcases, drybags, and more to see which bags best suited the adventurer’s needs, and which withstood the abuse of travel off the beaten path. Whether you’re a frequent flyer, a weekend warrior, living out of your van, or planning for a big expedition, there’s something on this list just right for you.
Editor’s note: This guide was updated in June, 2024, to include four new product additions.
At a Glance
Best Overall: Patagonia Black Hole Duffel 55L ($169)
Best Value: Eagle Creek Migrate Duffel 90L ($139)
Most Rugged: Sea to Summit Hydraulic Pro Pack 75L ($449)
Most Versatile: Nemo Double Haul 55L Convertible Duffel & Tote ($180)
For Water: Watershed Largo Tote ($179-258)
For Air Travel: Osprey Ozone 2-Wheel Carry-On 40L/21.5” ($280)
Best Backpack: Matador Globerider Travel Backpack ($350)
For Camping: The North Face Base Camp Gear Box ($150)
How We Test
Meet Our Lead Tester
All gear in this guide was tested by multiple reviewers. When you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This supports our mission to get more people active and outside. Learn more.
(Photo: Courtesy Patagonia)
Best Overall
Patagonia Black Hole Duffel 55L
$169 at REI $169 at Backcountry
Weight: 2.6 lbs
Dimensions: 22.8” x 13.3” x 9.5”
Available Sizes: 40, 55, 70, 100 L
Pros and Cons
⊕ Large opening
⊕ Lightweight
⊕ Stash pocket to separate shoes or laundry
⊕ Backpack carries well
⊗ Lacks internal organization
Patagonia’s Black Hole has been the gold standard for adventure travel luggage for a long time, and with this newest iteration featuring 100 percent recycled body fabric, lining, and webbing, the brand continues to lead the way in sustainability.
One of the best features of this duffel is how comfortable it is to carry as a backpack thanks to cushy, removable pack straps. An innovative, recycled TPU-film laminate also makes the bag lightweight and exceptionally abrasion- and weather-resistant. It’s rugged enough for major expeditions, yet convenient for the casual traveler, which makes it our top choice for 2024.
“In the rain, water beaded right off the bag, and it proved durable for outdoor adventures,” said one tester after taking the bag on a canoe camping trip in the Adirondacks and a camping trip to Moab, Utah.
The signature feature of the Black Hole, besides its pack straps, is its large main compartment that accommodates more gear than you’d think and makes finding said gear at a glance easy. The downside to this design is that the Black Hole doesn’t include a ton of internal organizational features found in other duffels, like zippered compartments to keep gear separated. The Black Hole has just one internal pocket on the zip-top lid to keep smaller items like toiletries organized.
However, it does include a surprisingly spacious external pocket for things you don’t want mingling with your other stuff (like wet or dirty items). That compartment also serves as the pocket you can stuff the entire bag into for compact storage when not in use.
(Photo: Courtesy Eagle Creek)
Easiest Access
Eagle Creek Migrate Duffel 90L
$139 at REI $119-139 at Backcountry
Weight: 2.9 lbs
Dimensions: 13.5” x 25.5” x 12.25” (90 L)
Available Sizes: 40 L, 60 L, 90 L
Pros and Cons
⊕ Wide-mouth opening for easy access to gear
⊕ Uses 100% recycled fabric
⊕ Good value
⊗ Top zipper isn’t stiff enough
The Migrate duffel was a tester favorite for its holding capacity—you can fit a lot in here. The “doctor bag” style zip-top allows for easier access and full visibility of all your gear and an additional five liters of packing space.
Good news for those who tend to overpack and end up schlepping heavy duffels: Tuck-away backpack straps allow for multiple carry options. The added pockets—internal and front zippered pocket—set it apart from many other duffels in this category.
But perhaps the biggest pro of this bag: it incorporates 100-percent recycled 900-denier Polyester TPU and fully recycled 1680-denier ballistic Polyester RPVB that reuses windshield plastics from landfills and makes the bag abrasion- and weather-resistant.
Testers had just one complaint: the top zipper isn’t very stiff, so testers found the opening closing in on itself while they were packing the bag.
Most Rugged
Sea to Summit Hydraulic Pro Pack 75L
$449 at Sea to Summit
Weight: 3.8 lbs
Dimensions: 26.8” x 14.2” x 12.2”
Available Sizes: 50, 75, 100 L
Pros and Cons
⊕ Includes backpack straps for ease of transport
⊕ 100% waterproof
⊕ Small profile for large carrying capacity
⊗ Price
Testers found this 100-percent waterproof bag featuring a pressure-tested waterproof zipper, fully welded seams, and 100-denier Hydraulic fabric to be nearly indestructible, making it an ideal travel companion to wet and rugged environments. From bouncing around in the back of one tester’s pickup truck, to getting tossed around airports across the country on another tester’s month-long travels, this bag withstood it all.
But let’s talk about the elephant in the room: the exceptionally steep price tag. The price point is comparable to other rugged, waterproof duffels of the same caliber, like the Yeti Panga Duffel, but what sets the Hydraulic Pro Pack apart is its design that makes it so easy to carry.
We tested the 75-liter version, and even when packed to the gills, it proved to be one of the most comfortable bags to carry in our test thanks to form-fitting shoulder straps and extended foam back panels that provide protection and cushioning when carrying it as a pack. This bag has only one external pocket, but testers didn’t mind the lack of internal organization, as this pack is really best suited for major expeditions.
It’s pricey, and generally over-engineered for the average traveler. But for those who rely and depend on a rugged, waterproof, and easy-to-carry duffel bag for overland motorcycle touring, paddling, or rafting adventures, it’s worth every penny for its durability and practicality.
(Photo: Courtesy Nemo)
Most Versatile
Nemo Double Haul 55L Convertible Duffel & Tote
$180 at REI $180 at Backcountry
Weight: 3 lbs
Dimensions: 63.5” x 86” x 147”
Available Sizes: 55 L
Pros and Cons
⊕ Wide compartment opening
⊕ Many ways to carry and organize the bag
⊕ Folds up small into carrying case when not in use
⊗ Too bulky and uncomfortable to carry for long distances
⊗ On the heavier side
Out of all of the duffels and luggage we tested this season, the Nemo Double Haul proved to be the most ingenious. It’s a combination of a duffel bag and tote bag, with a huge opening designed to stay wide open while you pack thanks to the stiff trusses that give the bag structure.
Astonishingly, considering its size, the bag also folds down neatly into a carrying case, making it easy to travel with or keep in your car. The shell is made from urethane-coated, bluesign approved 100 percent recycled nylon, while the liner is made from bluesign approved, solution-dyed 100-percent recycled polyester with PFAS-free DWR.
This bag is meant for hauling. “It’s best for car camping, when you have dozens of items that may not have a home,” said tester Troy Tetreault after a climbing trip in Kentucky’s Red River Gorge. “It also holds up well when tossed around amongst other gear.”
However, our testers wouldn’t recommend this bag for extended airline travel. The bag itself weighs 3 pounds, and testers found it awkward to carry because of the multiple ways the straps are set up for carrying—backpack carry, over the shoulder single arm carry, and suitcase carry.
(Photo: Courtesy Watershed)
Best for Watersports
Watershed Largo Tote
$179 at Backcountry $179 at Outdoorplay
Weight: 1.7 lbs
Available Sizes: 19.5 L
Dimensions: 12.5” x 14.5” x 6”
Pros and Cons
⊕ Large, tapered opening allows for easy access to contents
⊕ Waterproof
⊕ Sleek design
⊕ Durable
⊗ Opening/closure system can be finicky
The smallest bag on the list, this waterproof tote is perfect for day trips on the water, with plenty of space for all of the essentials and a guarantee that gear will stay dry.
“I took this bag canoe camping in November in the Adirondacks, and used it to carry camera gear while it was snowing during the canoe to our campsite. All of my stuff stayed dry,” said one tester.
Watershed bags have somewhat of a cult-like following in the paddling community, and testers in the know were keen to put the brand’s new Kyrptothane Plus material to the test. This material, made of 840-denier nylon base fabric, is thicker and more resistant to UV rays, making it more durable and less prone to breaking down from extended exposure in the sun.
Testers appreciated the large, tapered opening that makes it easy to access items inside. One gripe: It takes some elbow grease to open the two pull tabs on either side of the bag’s opening to pry it open. After a couple times of using this opening and closing system, testers got the hang of it, and felt thankful for such an indestructible system that kept their things dry.
(Photo: Courtesy Osprey)
Best for Air Travel
Osprey Ozone 2-Wheel Carry-On 40L/21.5”
$280 at REI $280 at Backcountry
Weight: 4.5 lbs
Dimensions: 10” x 14” X 21.5”
Available Sizes: 40 L
Pros and Cons
⊕ Lightweight
⊕ Large wheels and high clearance
⊗ Seemed to hold less than other bags the same size
⊗ On the pricier side
The Ozone line from Osprey, featuring five pieces ranging from four-wheeled suitcases to smaller backpacks and boarding bags, was designed for frequent flyers and travelers who value ease of transport. Of those, the Ozone 2-Wheel Carry-On is perhaps the most convenient on-board option.
Made from an ultralight yet durable aluminum frame and nanofly recycled nylon fabric, it offers just enough organizational capabilities to make packing for a trip a little easier. This suitcase (like all pieces in this line) features a buttonless trolley handle and a YKK reverse coil coated zipper for improved water resistance—both industry firsts. The Ozone 2-Wheel Carry-On also has a high clearance High Road LT frame, and oversized 90 millimeter wheels, making it rugged enough to handle terrain beyond concourse floors.
One tester takeaway: Despite this bag’s advertised 40-liter capacity, it didn’t seem to hold as much as softer duffel-style bags of the same size. That said, the sleek design combined with the function of this bag made it an obvious choice for our testers who needed a transport-friendly yet durable carry-on.
(Photo: Courtesy Matador)
Best Backpack
Matador Globerider 45L
$263 at REI $350 at Backcountry
Weight: 4.5 lbs
Dimensions: 22” x 12.8” x 11”
Available Sizes: 45 L
Pros and Cons
⊕ Generous space and organizational features
⊕ Comfortable backpack carry
⊗ Heavy for a backpack
⊗ Expensive for a backpack
The Globerider is one of those do-anything pieces of luggage, designed specifically for the true adventure traveler. It combines the ease of traveling with a backpack and the functionality of a duffel bag.
From a materials perspective, it’s rugged and built to last: 420-denier nylon UHMWPE (Ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene) reinforced ripstop meets 420-denier recycled nylon meets 100-nylon ripstop, and each of these materials features polyurethane waterproofing.
As a result, the Globerider impressed testers with how indestructible it proved over miles of wear and tear that included multiple flights, baggage carousels, and transport in wet and muddy truck beds.
It has a clamshell opening designed for accessibility and packability, while also offering an external access pocket for a laptop and other essentials. If we gave out an award for number of pockets, this bag would win it. Although the main compartment is larger and allows for looser organization, you’ll find a place for everything else. The Globerider also has an internal aluminum frame, a stowable and padded hipbelt, and it meets most airline carry-on requirements.
(Photo: Courtesy The North Face)
Best for Camping
The North Face Base Camp Gear Box
$150 at REI $150 at Amazon
Weight: 4.2 lbs
Dimensions: 16” x 22.2” x 12”
Available Sizes: 65 L
Pros and Cons
⊕ Lots of space and organizational options
⊕ Folds down flat for storage
⊗ Specific use cases (mainly cars, vans, and home storage)
The North Face Camp Gear Box is made from the same material as the brand’s durable Base Camp duffel—300-denier recycled polyester and 840-denier recycled ballistic nylon. However, unlike a traditional duffel, this hold-all is equipped with internal metal “kickstands” that fold up for rigid support and down for storage, which makes this piece of luggage ideal for the road.
One tester used the 90-liter Base Camp Gear Box (large) to schlep all of her gear to a mountain bike race and was able to fit the whole kit and caboodle: chest protector, two full face helmets, one half shell, two tires, and two pairs of bike shoes within the box itself. She stashed three pairs of sunglasses, two pairs of goggles, and other bike maintenance tools in the added internal pouches. Extra brake pads, grips, and bike tools fit snugly in the lid-zippered pockets.
Even with all of that, the lid closed with ease. Plus, the outer handles on the box make it easy to transport in and out of vehicles. For someone who is on the road often, this box is a must-have for organization and travel.
How We Test
Number of Testers: 7
Number of Products Tested: 25
Number of Miles Traveled: 15,302
Over the course of two years, we tested 25 pieces of luggage designed for the adventurous traveler who hauls their gear through more rugged environments than airport concourses. Think rafting adventures, camping getaways, climbing trips, and cross-country roadtrips.
As such, we primarily considered soft shell luggage between 20 and 100 liters made with abrasion- and weather-resistant materials to withstand plenty of use and abuse. Seven individuals who travel extensively—including a professional photographer, an outdoor educator, a professional skier and mountain biker, a forest ranger, and mapping technology specialist—were tasked with schlepping these bags around the country to assess the best picks for adventure travel.
We asked them to hone in on overall performance, feature-set, ease of transport, and durability, among other qualities. The bags on this list rose to the top of the pile after impressing testers in all categories.
Meet our Lead Tester
Originally from the Coast of Maine, Caitlin Kelly studied creative writing and environmental studies at St. Lawrence University in Upstate New York. She has called the Adirondack Mountains home since, building community through her work with Women of the Adirondacks and The Adirondack Community Avalanche Project. She currently resides in Lake Placid, NY, and is the social and digital media specialist for North Country Public Radio. She is an avid backcountry skier and a ski patroller at Whiteface Mountain. Her writing has appeared in Powder Magazine, Adirondack Life Magazine, Freeskier, The Ski Journal, Outside Magazine, and Ski Magazine, among other publications. If you sit too close to her on a chairlift, you may get some glitter on you.
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Tools & Tech, 2024 Summer Gear Guide, Bags, Luggage, Travel
