We all recognise that frustrating moment when you're juggling travel documents, reaching for your charger, or trying to fish out your water bottle from the depths of an overstuffed bag. The wrong travel bag doesn’t just slow you down; it can leave you feeling disorganised, weighed down, and even physically strained.
Choosing the right travel bag can make all the difference. Whether you’re heading off on a weekend getaway or embarking on a long-haul adventure, the bag you carry plays an important role in your comfort, mobility, and peace of mind. The right one will keep your essentials organised, distribute weight evenly, and support your posture throughout your journey.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through how to choose a travel bag that suits your needs, one that works with you, not against you. From size and structure to features and fit, we’ll help you find the perfect travel companion.
Understanding your needs
What type of trip are you taking?
The kind of trip you’re planning plays a big role in choosing the right bag. For business travel, you’ll want a sleek, organised carry-on with space for tech and work essentials. Adventure trips call for something rugged and spacious, think backpacks with weather-resistant materials and plenty of compartments. Leisure travel often requires a balance between comfort and style, especially if you're transitioning from sightseeing to dining out. Consider how long you’ll be away and how much you really need to pack, this will help determine whether a carry-on will suffice or if checked luggage is the better option. Tailoring your bag to your trip ensures you're prepared without overpacking.
City Breaks
City adventures often mean full days of walking, museum-hopping, shopping, and café stops. For these short but packed itineraries, you’ll want a compact, lightweight bag that can hold essentials like your phone, wallet, travel guide or itinerary, portable charger, sunglasses, and perhaps a light jacket. Security is important in crowds so you’ll want to ensure items are safe and sound and valuables are out of reach. A medium-sized crossbody, sling, or backpack with internal pocketing keeps your hands free and your belongings close.
Outdoor Escapes & Nature Hikes
Heading into nature calls for a bag that prioritises comfort, durability, and capacity. Think padded straps, water-resistant materials, and space for water bottles, snacks, sunscreen, a first aid kit, extra layers, spare phone charger and possibly binoculars or a camera. For day hikes, a lightweight backpack is ideal, much like our Active and Urban Travellers. For longer treks, organisational pockets and a separate compartment for dirty or wet items are worth considering.
Weekend Getaways
A weekend away typically means a couple of outfits, toiletries, maybe a book or tablet, and some room for spontaneous extras. A versatile overnight bag or cabin-sized backpack with separate compartments helps keep things organised. Bonus points if it fits under the seat or in overhead compartments to avoid checked luggage, much like our Big Bags
Business Travel
For work trips, functionality and form matter. You’ll likely need space for a laptop, chargers, notebooks, travel documents, pens and perhaps a change of clothes or shoes. A structured bag with dedicated tech sleeves, an easy-access pocket for documents, and a sleek professional look will keep you efficient and polished on the go.
Long-Haul & International Travel
Travelling long distances, especially across time zones, requires thoughtful packing. You’ll need comfort items like a neck pillow, a lightweight wrap or scarf, noise-cancelling headphones, snacks, entertainment, chargers, toiletries, and maybe a change of clothes. A larger carry-on backpack with smart compartments helps you keep everything accessible without digging around mid-flight.
Daily Commutes & Multi-Use Travel
If your bag needs to transition from weekday train rides to weekend adventures, versatility is key. Look for a medium-sized bag that can fit your laptop, lunch, workout gear, or anything else your day demands. Features like water bottle holders, padded laptop sleeves, and anti-theft zips can be especially helpful.
What type of traveller are you?
Before picking the perfect travel bag, take a moment to think about your travel habits and personal style. Are you a weekend explorer who loves spontaneous city breaks? Then a compact, versatile bag that fits in a carry-on compartment is ideal. If you're a frequent business traveller, look for a structured, professional bag with padded compartments for laptops and documents. Adventure seekers, on the other hand, will benefit from a durable, weather-resistant backpack with ergonomic support and room for gear. Your bag should suit not just your destination, but also the way you travel so choosing one that matches your rhythm and routine makes all the difference.
Size & Capacity
When it comes to choosing the right travel bag, size matters. Start by checking the carry-on size restrictions for your preferred airline (typically 22" x 14" x 9" or 55x40x20cm), as they can vary slightly between carriers, especially for budget flights. You’ll want a bag that fits within those limits while still offering enough space for your essentials. The key is to balance what you pack with how easily you can carry it.
Carry-On or Checked Luggage?
Choosing between carry-on and checked luggage comes down to the length of your trip and your travel preferences. If you like to travel light and avoid baggage queues, a well-packed carry-on is ideal. For longer journeys or if you're packing for multiple occasions, a spacious check-in bag may be necessary to accommodate everything you need. Whichever you choose, always double-check your airline’s baggage size and weight restrictions to avoid last-minute surprises at the airport.
How Much Space Do You Really Need?
Bag sizes are typically measured in litres, which gives you a good sense of their capacity. For short trips or minimalist packers, a 30-litre backpack is usually enough to hold essentials like clothing, toiletries, and a few personal items. For longer journeys or if you're packing bulkier items, a 60-litre or larger bag offers the extra room you need. The key is to match the bag size to the length and purpose of your trip, choosing too large a bag can tempt you to overpack, making your load heavier and less manageable.
Material & Durability
Your travel bag needs to withstand shifting weather conditions, being repeatedly packed and unpacked, and the general wear and tear of daily use. The material it’s made from can affect not only how long it lasts, but also how it performs and feels while you're on the go.
What’s the best Material for Travel Bags?
Polycarbonate and ABS plastics offer durability for hard-shell bags, while nylon and polyester make soft-shell options lightweight and flexible. Here are a few pros and cons.
Hard-Shell Luggage
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Material: Usually made from polycarbonate, ABS plastic, or aluminum.
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Pros: Offers better protection for fragile items, resists water, and is easier to clean.
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Cons: Less flexible when it comes to squeezing into tight spaces or fitting odd-shaped items. They can also show scratches more easily and may crack under extreme pressure.
Soft-Shell Luggage
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Material: Often made from nylon, polyester, or canvas.
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Pros: More flexible and expandable, typically lighter, and can fit into tighter storage spaces. They usually have external pockets for easy access to small items.
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Cons: Not as protective against impacts and can be more prone to water absorption (unless treated or made from water-resistant fabric).
Best For:
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Hard-shell = air travel hold luggage, carrying delicate items, or wet weather conditions.
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Soft-shell = road trips, short stays, air travel carry on luggage, and travellers who need flexibility or easy-access pockets.
All Occasions Bags: From Airport to Dinner
If you're looking for a bag that transitions effortlessly from a long-haul flight to a stylish dinner, versatility is key. An all-occasions travel bag should strike a balance between durability and sophistication. Opt for materials that are hard-wearing yet refined, like high-quality leather, waxed canvas, or sleek nylon with a polished finish. Choose a bag that's streamlined and minimal, with just enough space for your essentials and with the right bag, you won't need to compromise between function and style, just grab and go, wherever the day (or night) takes you.
How Important Is Water-Resistant or Weatherproof Material?
For outdoor travel or unpredictable weather, water-resistant fabrics protect your belongings. Look for coated materials or waterproof zippers.
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Water-resistant materials protect your belongings from light rain or spills. This is useful for everyday travel, city breaks, or transit in unpredictable weather.
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Weatherproof or waterproof materials are essential for outdoor adventures, beach holidays, and places with frequent rain.
Even if you're not expecting to be caught in a downpour, having some level of water resistance adds peace of mind and protects tech, documents, and clothes from accidental leaks or wet surfaces.
What Materials Are Best for Long-Lasting Travel Bags?
Durability often comes down to the material and construction quality. Here are some of the best options:
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Nylon and Polyester: Synthetic fabrics are popular for a reason. They’re lightweight, water-resistant, and often machine washable, making them ideal for outdoor adventures, unpredictable weather, and beach holidays. They’re especially useful when you need a practical, low-maintenance bag that won’t weigh you down and can be easily cleaned after your trip.
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Leather: If you’re after style as well as substance, leather is a classic choice. It’s strong, long-lasting, and adds a polished touch to your travel look, great for city breaks or business travel. However, leather requires more care, particularly in wet weather, so it’s best suited for urban or indoor-heavy itineraries.
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Canvas: Canvas sits comfortably in the middle, flexible, hardwearing, and easygoing. It’s ideal for casual travellers who want a relaxed, durable bag for everyday use. While not as water-resistant as synthetic fabrics, canvas bags often have a rugged charm and are reliably tough..
Tip: Look for reinforced stitching, strong zips (like YKK), and quality hardware for added longevity.
For information about cleaning different materials click here
Features & Functionality
When choosing a travel bag, it’s the little details that make a big difference. Look for features that keep your belongings organised, secure, and easy to access, like padded laptop sleeves, document compartments, and hidden pockets.
Must-Have Compartments & Organisers
An organised bag can transform your travel experience. Look for dedicated tablet or laptop pockets to protect your tech, hidden pockets for valuables like passports and cash, and compression straps to keep everything in place and maximise space. Multiple compartments help separate your items, clothes, toiletries and gadgets, so you can find what you need quickly without digging through your entire bag.
Comfort and Portability
When you’re on the move, the last thing you want is a bag that slows you down or leaves you with sore shoulders or back. Comfort isn’t just a bonus when it comes to travel bags; it’s essential.
The best travel bag for you depends on how you travel. Backpacks are ideal for hands-free mobility and are great for city breaks, adventure trips, or commuting, especially when designed with ergonomic support. Duffel bags offer spacious interiors and flexibility, making them perfect for weekend getaways or gym-to-airport transitions. Rolling suitcases are best for smooth, flat surfaces and longer stays, taking the strain off your shoulders entirely.
Comfort is key, no matter which style you choose. Features like padded straps, breathable back panels, and ergonomic shapes help distribute weight evenly, reducing strain on your back and shoulders. Adjustable straps allow you to customise the fit, so the bag stays snug and stable as you move. Together, these design elements make carrying your bag feel lighter and more natural, especially when you’re navigating airports, train stations, or city streets.
Is a Backpack, Duffel, or Rolling Suitcase Better for Your Travel Style?
When deciding between a backpack, duffel, or rolling suitcase for your travel style, consider the following:
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Backpack: Ideal for those who value hands-free mobility, especially for short trips or destinations with uneven terrain. Backpacks are perfect for minimalist travelers, city explorers, and those who need to be agile during their travels.
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Duffel: Great for those who need more flexibility in packing. Duffels can be stuffed with odd-shaped items and are easier to carry when navigating crowded spaces. They're perfect for active travelers, gym-goers, or anyone who likes to pack a variety of items.
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Rolling Suitcase: Best for travelers carrying heavier loads or those traveling to more structured environments like airports or hotels. They’re perfect for packing clothing, electronics, or other essentials that require more space and stability.
What Makes a Travel Bag Comfortable to Carry?
A comfortable travel bag should prioritise features that reduce strain and enhance ease of movement. Here’s what to look for:
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Padded Straps: Whether it's a backpack or a duffel, padded shoulder straps are crucial. They distribute the weight of the bag more evenly across your shoulders, preventing discomfort during long periods of wear. Look for adjustable straps to customize the fit and avoid any pressure points.
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Breathable Materials: Fabrics like mesh or ventilated padding help with airflow, preventing your back and shoulders from getting too hot and sweaty. This is especially important in warmer climates or if you’re carrying your bag for extended periods.
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Balanced Weight Distribution: A well-designed bag should have a weight distribution system that keeps the load centered. This reduces the strain on your back and helps maintain posture. For backpacks, this means ensuring the pack is not too heavy at the bottom or top, while for rolling bags, balanced wheels and a sturdy frame are key.
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Lightweight Design: A lightweight bag to begin with makes a huge difference. A heavy bag can quickly become unbearable when loaded with gear, so opt for materials that are both durable and light. This way, you're not carrying around extra weight before adding your personal items.
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Cushioned Handles: When you're carrying a duffel or a suitcase by hand, cushioned handles are essential. They provide comfort and reduce the strain on your palms and fingers, especially if the bag is loaded with heavy items.
How Do Adjustable Straps and Ergonomic Designs Enhance Comfort?
Adjustable straps allow you to customise the fit of your bag, preventing strain on your back and shoulders. Ergonomic designs support natural posture, making it easier to carry your bag for extended periods and allow for versatility in wearing styles.
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Adjustable Straps: The ability to adjust straps means you can tailor the fit of your bag to your body shape and size. This helps distribute the weight evenly across your back and shoulders, reducing pressure points that can lead to discomfort or pain. Whether you're short or tall, adjustable straps ensure that your bag stays snug but not tight, minimising strain. Properly adjusted straps can also help you avoid uneven weight distribution, which might otherwise lead to back or neck issues.
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Ergonomic Designs: Ergonomically designed travel bags are built to support the natural curves of your body, particularly your spine and shoulders. These designs consider factors like the bag’s shape, padding, and the way the straps and handles align with your posture. By keeping your posture in a more natural position, ergonomic designs help you maintain better alignment, reducing fatigue and muscle strain. This is especially important when carrying a bag for extended periods, such as during long walks or hikes.
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Versatility in wearing styles: This is also a huge plus. The ability to wear your bag on your back for support, or swing it to the front for easy access and added security, is a game-changer. Crossbody options are especially popular for hands-free convenience while keeping your essentials safe and within easy reach.
Read our guide for styling tips on how to wear a crossbody bag.
Feeling Secure with a Travel Bag
When you’re travelling, especially in busy cities, unfamiliar environments, or bustling transport hubs, security is just as important as comfort. Think about the following features to give you added peace of mind when you’re on the move.
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A Close Fit for Extra Peace of Mind: Bags that sit close to your body, naturally discourage opportunistic theft. When the main zip is pressed against your back or side, it’s far harder for pickpockets to access without you noticing.
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Hidden and Secure Compartments: Look for bags with carefully placed compartments, especially those hidden inside or along the seam. These are perfect for stashing valuables like your passport, travel cards, wallet, or emergency cash. Not only do these hidden pockets keep items out of reach, they also help you stay organised without advertising where your important belongings are.
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Zipped Internal Pockets for Essentials: Travelling often means juggling small but crucial items, like your hotel key, phone charger, local currency, or boarding pass. Internal zipped pockets let you store them securely and access them quickly without digging around or opening the main compartment in public.
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Adjustable Straps for a Secure Fit: A bag that fits snugly to your body is not only more comfortable, it’s also harder to snatch. Adjustable straps allow you to customise the fit, whether you're wearing it across your chest for quick access, or on your back during transit. A well-fitted bag won’t slip off easily, and makes it clear you’re not an easy target.
Locks and Zips
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Anti-Theft Zips: Many travel bags come equipped with anti-theft zips, which are designed to resist tampering and pickpocketing. These zips typically have features such as lockable sliders or concealed zips that make it difficult for thieves to open your bag without you noticing.
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The Healthy Back Bag Zip: One standout design of the Healthy Back Bag features a zip that sits close to your body at all times. This clever design not only ensures that the bag remains secure but also makes it more accessible only to the wearer. Since the zip is positioned against your back, it becomes much harder for anyone to tamper with your bag without you noticing. This added security feature makes it an ideal choice for those who prioritise both accessibility and protection from theft while traveling.
Style & Budget
When selecting a travel bag, the balance between style and budget can often be a dilemma, but both are important depending on your travel needs.
Function vs. Fashion: Do You Have to Choose?
While style matters, functionality should be the priority when choosing a travel bag and many brands now offer stylish yet practical designs for travellers. After all, a bag is meant to support your journey, not just look good. Look for features like durability, comfort, and security that match your specific travel activities. A stylish bag can be a great bonus, but if it doesn’t serve your practical needs, such as sufficient space, ease of carrying, or weather resistance, then it may not be the best choice for long-term use. Ideally, aim for a bag that balances both aspects, providing functionality without compromising on aesthetics.
What’s the Best Travel Bag Within Your Budget?
The best travel bag within your budget will depend on the amount you're willing to spend and the quality you're seeking. If you're working with a smaller budget, there are many affordable brands offering durable and functional bags. Look for features like water resistance, comfortable straps, and adequate space. On the other hand, if you're willing to invest a bit more, you can find bags with advanced materials, better ergonomics, and longer-lasting designs. Do your research on customer reviews and brand reputation to ensure you're getting the best value for your money.
Are Premium Travel Brands Worth the Investment?
Premium travel brands are often more expensive, but they can offer exceptional quality, durability, and unique features that justify the price tag. High-end brands tend to use better materials, offer longer warranties, and provide more thoughtful designs, which can make your travel experience smoother and more enjoyable. For frequent travelers, the investment may be worthwhile, as the added durability and comfort can pay off in the long run. However, if you're only traveling occasionally, a mid-range option might be more than sufficient, offering you a balance of quality and cost.
Final Thoughts: Travel Smart with The Right Bag
Whether you’re a frequent flyer or a weekend traveller, pick a bag that suits your needs and makes your journey hassle-free.
Choosing the right travel bag is about balancing size, durability, features, and security.
Choosing the right travel bag is about more than just looks, it’s about comfort, security, durability, and finding the right fit for your journey. Wherever you’re heading, the right size and an ergonomic design can make a big difference to how you feel on the move. Prioritise security with smart features like hidden compartments and snug, adjustable straps, and select materials that suit your travel style: from water-resistant nylon to timeless leather or casual canvas. A well-chosen travel bag supports you every step of the way, keeping your essentials organised, your posture in check, and your adventures worry-free.