10 of our favorite weekender bags

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The best weekender bags come packed with features, from laptop sleeves to water bottle holders. Every item has its place, even clothes on hangers and shoes. “Even if it’s just a weekend, I may carry three pairs of shoes,” says Seunghye Huggins, a frequent traveler based in Ashburn, Virginia. “I like [a shoe compartment] to keep them separate from my clothes and toiletries.”

Based on expert advice, online research, and personal experiences, we’ve identified the ReNew Transit Weekender from Everlane as our top pick for best weekender bag. We love the compact design, smart pockets, and machine washable fabric. It’s also a great bag for both men and women.

Ready to find the perfect weekender bag? Here are all 10 of our favorites for your next adventure.

The best weekender bags

Great organization, high-quality fabrics, and compact construction are all important qualities to look for in a weekender bag. Here’s everything you need to know about our top picks.

Best overall weekender bag: Everlane ReNew Transit Weekender

A black totebag with shoulder strap, against a tan background. — Photograph Courtesy Everlane

Buy it now at Everlane

Why we like it: This versatile weekender bag may be smaller than some of the others, but it shines with smart organizational features, like two water bottle holders, a padded laptop sleeve, and a luggage strap to attach to a roller suitcase. “A bag with multiple compartments will help you keep everything streamlined,” says Lillian Rafson, founder of Pack Up + Go, which specializes in surprise vacations.

The ReNew Transit Weekender is made from recycled water bottles, comes in five colors and made with Bluesign-approved dyes.

Keep in mind: The bag’s opening is smaller than others, which some reviewers felt made it tricky to access items. Additionally, although it’s advertised to fit a 15-inch laptop, some users found the laptop sleeve smaller than expected.

Best weekender bag for women: Dagne Dover Landon Carryall Bag

A black tote bag against a tan background — Photograph Courtesy Dagne Dover

Buy it now at Dagne Dover

Why we like it: This versatile bag is billed as a traveler’s sidekick, ideal for the gym, office, or quick trips. With an exterior phone pocket, a detachable key leash, and a handy mesh pouch, it’s a cinch to stay organized on the go.

A thoughtfully designed interior has separate pockets for a tablet, charging cords, and a water bottle. Made from neoprene and recycled polyester, this carryall comes in five sizes (XS-XL), giving travelers lots of options. We’re fans of the large size, which fits three outfits, a pair of shoes, and a toiletry bag.

Keep in mind: This bag doesn’t have a dedicated shoe compartment, so you may want to consider a water-resistant shoe bag to protect your clean clothes.

(The best carry-on luggage to help make your next plane trip a breeze)

Best weekender bag for men: Herschel Novel Duffle

A duffel bag with a black and blue marble pattern, against a tan background. — Photograph Courtesy Herschel

Buy it now at Herschel

Why we like it: This stylish yet durable weekend bag works as a stand-alone or paired with a roller suitcase. Sturdy handles and a removable shoulder strap add comfort and versatility. High-quality, waterproof materials help keep your belongings safe and dry.

Available in three sizes, we love the mid-range version—the standard—for the shoe compartment. Plus, it has a laptop sleeve and an interior pocket. “I like a weekender bag with separate compartments,” says Huggins. “This way, you can leave the packing cubes at home.” This functional bag is made from 100-percent recycled water bottles.

Keep in mind: Some reviewers noted that the handles can feel a bit stiff, making it difficult to open the bag wide when packing. This can also affect how easily you can access your belongings.

Best garment weekender bag: Halfday The Garment Duffel

A black duffel bag against a tan background. — Photograph Courtesy Halfday Travel

Buy it now at Halfday

Why we like it: This weekender bag acts as both a traditional duffel and a garment bag. You can hang dress shirts or dresses inside, zip it up, and neatly stack your folded clothes. “If I’m traveling for an event, I love a garment-style duffel to keep everything clean, organized, and wrinkle-free,” says Rafson.

With two shoe pockets, a water-resistant exterior, and a 45L capacity, it’s roomy enough for a three-day weekend. The exterior pocket ensures essentials (phone, charger cords, ear buds) are easy to access. The Garment Duffle comes in three sizes, all equipped with a “trolley sleeve” that easily attaches the weekender bag to a roller suitcase.

Keep in mind: This bag does not have a dedicated laptop compartment, and the outer zip pocket is only spacious enough for a small tablet.

(Our favorite wrinkle-free clothing to pack)

Best budget weekender bag: Lands’ End Canvas Weekender Duffle Bag

A white canvas bag with navy blue trim against a tan background. — Photograph Courtesy Lands’ End

Buy it now at Lands’ End

Why we like it: Lands’ End is beloved by outdoor enthusiasts, especially for its durable canvas bags. This weekender resembles a classic beach tote, but it offers more functionality thanks to an adjustable shoulder strap and zip-top closure. Inside, you’ll find three pockets. An external pocket allows easy access to phone and keys. A trolley sleeve makes it easy to attach this bag to a suitcase. It’s spacious too, able to fit three pairs of shoes. It can even be monogrammed.

Keep in mind: This bag might feel a bit too casual for some weekend travelers, especially with its white canvas base, which can be more susceptible to stains. Additionally, the base isn’t waterproof, even though it’s coated. This bag is not machine washable, so you’ll need to spot clean it.

Best unisex weekender bag: Away The Outdoor Duffle

Buy it now at Away

Why we like it: At 40L, this smart-looking duffel may be the smallest in Away’s Outdoor collection, but it’s designed to fit enough for a four-night getaway. If you need more room, you can choose from two larger sizes.

Made from a water- and abrasion-resistant recycled fabric, the Outdoor Duffle is designed to help protect your gear from snow, rain, and dirt. Roomy interior and exterior pockets allow you to tuck away small essentials, like keys and charger cords. It also has a detachable cross-body strap for hands-free convenience.

Keep in mind: The shoulder strap could use a little more grip, as it may slip off your shoulder unless you wear it across your body.

(The best toiletry bags for every kind of traveler)

Best everyday weekender bag: Lo & Sons Catalina Deluxe

A grey tote bag with shoulder strap against a tan background. — Photograph Courtesy Lo & Sons

Buy it now at Lo & Sons

Why we like it: This chic weekender seamlessly pairs functionality with style, acting as both a suitcase and a tote. The spacious bottom compartment lets you keep shoes and dirty laundry separate from clean clothes. Inside, zipper and open-top slip pockets let you stow your phone or passport. Exterior zip-close pockets, an adjustable strap, and a sleeve for your suitcase handle offer added convenience. We love that it comes in two fabrics: recycled polyester (regular and waxed) and sustainably produced canvas.

Keep in mind: While this bag offers plenty of space, it lacks a designated pocket or sleeve for laptops or tablets. There is a small interior zipper pocket, but it may not be the best fit for electronics.

Best eco-friendly weekender bag: United By Blue (R)evolution 55L Carry-On Duffle

An orange-brown canvas duffel bag against a tan background. — Photograph Courtesy United By Blue

Buy it now at United By Blue

Why we like it: This durably designed bag embodies the classic duffel silhouette, with dual handles that clip together and a padded shoulder strap for comfort. It’s packed with pockets, including a handy side shoe compartment, ideal for road trips. The side handle makes it easy to grab from your trunk or from an overhead bin, while front slant pockets offer quick access to your phone or lip balm. Even better—it’s made from 100-percent recycled materials.

Keep in mind: This bag has exterior pockets that close with a snap, but it lacks the added security and peace of mind of zip-close pockets.

Best waterproof weekender bag: Rains Hilo Weekend Bag

Buy it now at Rains

Why we like it: For travelers who frequent wet weather destinations, the waterproof Hilo is an essential weekender bag. Made from fabric inspired by raincoats, this bag is engineered to protect against light rain.

A spacious main compartment can hold more than we thought, and the dual handles with double-snap wrap help keep everything secure. Available in three sizes, the roomy mid-range bag balances comfort and easy packing for weekend getaways.

Keep in mind: This bag embraces minimalist design, and as such, does not have any internal or external pockets. If you like to keep things organized, you may want to use packing cubes. “I always recommend using packing cubes to keep everything organized and to make sure you don’t pack more than the cubes can fit,” says Rafson.

(These packing cubes will keep you organized no matter where you travel)

Best duffel style weekender bag: Fjallraven Vardag Duffel 30

Buy it now at Fjallraven

Why we like it: Made from a rugged outdoor fabric, this versatile duffel features easy-carry handles and a detachable shoulder strap. Plus, an outer zip pocket keeps your phone and small valuables secure while you’re on the go. The spacious main compartment, complete with an interior pocket, easily holds the basics, from clothes to gear to reading materials.

Keep in mind: This bag takes the classic duffel style to heart. It’s a great choice for those who appreciate simplicity, but it may not be the best fit for those seeking something a bit more stylish or versatile.

Tips for shopping for a weekender bag

Depending on where you’re going, packing for a quick getaway can be tricky. The best weekender bag should be compact enough to fit in an overhead bin or in a car, but easy to carry. They should also be roomy enough to fit everything you need. Here’s what to look for when shopping for a weekender bag:

Size and capacity

Consider what you typically pack for a weekend trip. A weekender bag in the 30-40 liter range usually works well, providing enough space for your gear without being bulky.

Materials and durability

Look for bags made from recycled polyester, which can be more durable than other fabrics. Water-resistant materials are great too. Bonus if the bag is made with machine-washable materials.

Comfortable handles and straps

Think about how you like to carry your bag—via the handles, on your shoulder, or as a cross-body bag. Padded and adjustable straps can enhance comfort.

Organization

Look for smart compartments for tech and pockets for easy access to your phone or passport. A separate compartment for shoes or dirty clothes can simplify packing and unpacking.

Style and versatility

Choose a design that reflects your personal style while being versatile enough for different occasions, from road trips to weddings. A timeless, neutral design can adapt to various travels.

Frequently asked questions

What is a weekender bag?

A weekender bag is a compact and versatile travel bag designed for short trips. It typically holds the basics, like a few items of clothing, a pair of shoes, toiletries, and tech items, such as tablets and chargers. With sturdy handles, adjustable straps, and multiple pockets, these bags can help you stay organized on the go.

How do you clean a weekender bag?

Every weekender bag is different. Cleaning methods can vary based on materials, like canvas, polyester, or leather. Always check the manufacturer’s care instructions to see if you should machine wash, spot clean with a mild detergent, or use a damp cloth on the fabric.

Can a weekender bag be a personal item?

Yes, a weekender bag can often be used as a personal item on an airplane. Some can fit under the seat in front of you. Check the individual airline’s size and dimension restrictions to ensure the weekender bag meets the specific guidelines.

Erin Gifford is a travel and outdoor writer based in Northern Virginia. Follow her on

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*Although we are sharing our personal opinions of these experiences or products with you, National Geographic is not endorsing these experiences or products on behalf of anyone. It has not performed product safety testing on any of these products, did not manufacture them, and is not selling, or distributing them and is not making any representations about the safety or caliber of these products or experiences for individual consumers. Prices and availability are subject to change from the date of publication.