The duffel bag is one of the most versatile options for travel. These accessories are quite versatile, coming in a broad range of sizes, shapes, materials, and carrying ways. From ultra-durable expedition-ready models to sleek carry-ons built for day-to-day use, the number of options can be a bit overwhelming. I’ll break down what matters when choosing a travel duffel, helping you cut through the noise so you can find the one that’s just right for your adventures.
Durability
Whether you’re braving the outdoors with climbing gear or carting your belongings through a city, a durable Ariat bag can withstand wear and tear and tough weather conditions. It’s made with reinforced materials, durable zippers, and thoughtful design features, which offer durability and weather resistance that will keep your gear protected. These duffels are often made from tough materials that resist abrasion and moisture. Materials like high-quality nylon, canvas, and leather are common choices for these bags.
Durability often goes together with weather resistance, though it’s worth noting that no duffel is completely waterproof, especially when it comes to things like zippers and seams. While many models offer waterproof or water-resistant coatings, they can still face challenges where the zippers meet or along the seams.
That said, manufacturers are getting creative with extra features, like weather flaps over zippers or water-resistant covers, which can help shield your belongings from rain and snow. While it’s not wise to submerge these accessories, they offer great protection against everyday moisture, dirt, and dust.
Storage Space
What’s a good size duffle bag? This is another key consideration, and it depends on your trip. For bigger adventures like climbing or skiing, you’ll want something in the 125 to 150-litre range to carry all your gear, though these can get heavy and bulky.
For most travellers, a 90 to 100-litre Ariat bag for sale can be a great option, as it offers plenty of space without being too hard to manage. A 70-litre design can be ideal if you’re planning a small trip or are going somewhere warmer. For short trips or daily use, bags in the 30 to 50-litre range are ideal, offering just enough space while still being easy to carry and small enough for overhead bins. So, look for a size that suits your needs without overpacking.
Weight
Weight is another thing you should keep in mind when picking the right duffel, especially with airline baggage limits. Most duffels in the 90 to 100-litre range weigh between 1.5 to 2 kgs, which leaves you room to pack everything you need without going over the limit. These Ariat bags are much lighter compared to wheeled suitcases, which can weigh 2 to 3 kgs more, giving you extra space for your essentials.
On the lighter end, there are ultralight duffels that weigh next to nothing and can be packed down to the size of a water bottle. These smaller options are perfect for everyday use, whether it’s for the gym or as a secondary bag for day trips. While they may not be as durable as their bigger counterparts, they’re a solid choice when weight and convenience are your top priorities.
Multiple Compartments
Having a duffel Ariat bag with well-thought-out organisation features can make a world of difference. While most duffels have a large main compartment that you access through a big I- or D-shaped zipper, the zipper type can impact how easy it is to pack and find what you need. D-shaped zippers offer better access to the interior, allowing you to see and reach more of your gear without rummaging through everything. If you’re carrying longer items like trekking poles or camera tripods, it’s a good idea to check the bag’s dimensions to ensure they’ll fit comfortably.
Many duffels also include internal zippered pockets, usually under the top lid or at one end of the duffel. These pockets are super handy for keeping smaller items from getting lost in the shuffle. This is great if you’re a traveller who packs delicate items like camera lenses and wants to keep them in a separate, safe compartment to avoid any damage.
On the other hand, if you’re packing travel shoes and don’t want them mingling with your clothes, having a separate external pocket for them ensures your clothes stay clean and organised. These thoughtful touches can help you save time when you need something quickly without digging through your whole duffel.
Intended Use
Another important thing to think about is how you plan to use your duffel. Not all designs are built the same, and depending on your lifestyle, you’ll want an accessory that can keep up. Here’s a quick rundown to help narrow it down:
- For everyday use: Something lighter and more compact will work best. If you’re choosing a duffel specifically for the gym, something around 30 to 40 litres is big enough to hold your workout clothes, a pair of shoes, a towel, a water bottle, and maybe your toiletries, but not so bulky that it takes up half the locker room;
- For big trips: You’ll want a large-capacity duffel, so something in the 90 to 100-litre range is ideal. These give you loads of space without pushing past most airline weight limits. Great if you’re checking it in and heading out for more than just a few days;
- For quick weekend getaways: A smaller model, around 30 to 50 litres, usually does the trick. It’ll hold a couple of outfits, your toiletries, and maybe a pair of shoes. An overhead container can still accommodate a lot of these bags;
- For adventure travel: Think tough, water-resistant, and durable. If you’re heading off the grid, go for a rugged design with reinforced straps, heavy-duty fabric, and maybe even daisy chains to tie it down to a 4×4.
Comfortable Straps
If you’re going without wheels, comfort and versatility in the straps and handles make a big difference in how pleasant your travels will be. Here’s a quick look at the main carrying options you’ll run into:
- Traditional handles: Most Ariat gear bags come with two basic side handles that you grab like a suitcase. These usually have a snap or Velcro wrap to keep them together, and they’re great for short hauls or lifting the duffel in and out of your car. But if your bag is on the heavier side, your arm’s probably going to get tired fast;
- Shoulder strap: This is the long, adjustable strap that clips on either end of Ariat bags so you can throw it over one shoulder. It’s convenient for quick dashes through the terminal or train station and usually has a padded section for comfort. But if you’re carrying a lot of weight, it can start to feel lopsided and awkward after a while;
- Backpack straps: If you’re carrying a lot or know you’ll be walking a distance, this is the way to go. Backpack straps evenly distribute the weight, so it’s less strain on your body and way easier to move around freely. Some models have straps that tuck away or can be completely removed, which comes in handy for checking bags or storage.
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