Travel Gear

Should I Get a Travel Duffle or Travel Roller Bag?

Deciding between a travel duffle and a roller bag? Discover the pros and cons of each to make the best choice for your next adventure. Read more!

Raquel

05 Oct 2022 • 6 min read

When it comes to packing for your next trip, choosing the right bag is a game-changer. Imagine this scenario—you’re racing down cobblestone streets to catch a train, or squeezing into a full car trunk for a weekend getaway. The wrong bag could mean frustration, broken zippers, or worst-case scenario: scrambling to carry everything by hand. Yikes!

That’s where this guide comes in. Whether you’re a frequent flyer, adventure seeker, or busy professional on a business trip, we're here to help you decide between a trusty travel duffle or a dependable travel roller bag.

Spoiler alert—there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. But by the end of this article, you’ll know exactly what works for you and your travel style. Let’s unpack this debate!

The Pros and Cons of a Travel Duffle with Backpack Straps

The Case for a Travel Duffle

The travel duffle is like the Swiss army knife of bags—compact yet surprisingly versatile. Here’s why so many travelers love them:

Versatility: Whether you’re off to a camping trip or a quick city getaway, a duffle’s adaptable style fits the vibe. Tuck it under airplane seats, hoist it on a luggage rack, or sling it over one shoulder.
Pack Light: Duffels encourage lightweight packing. Think minimalist travel or a week's worth of clothes and essentials max.
Easy to Store: Stuff them into car trunks, overhead compartments, or stack them like Jenga blocks when storage gets tight.
Uneven Terrain? No Problem: No wheels to drag over gravel paths or uneven terrain; the shoulder strap and backpack straps save the day.

But… It’s Not All Rosy

While the duffle’s simplicity is its main advantage, it comes with a few caveats.

Heavy Loads: Once fully packed with heavy stuff, your shoulder may hate you. Ouch!
Less Organization: Most duffel bags have fewer internal compartments, which can turn your main compartment into a black hole for belongings.
Limited Protection for Fragile Items: Unless your duffle has water-resistant materials and padding, your fragile objects might not survive bumps or inclement weather.

The Pros and Cons of Wheeled Luggage

Why Choose a Roller Bag?

Ahh, the rolling suitcase—complete with a telescoping handle and a loyal set of wheels. This luggage staple is designed for practicality and ease.

Easier to Maneuver: Rolling suitcases or wheeled luggage are perfect for airports, train stations, and long distances. Rolling duffels are tested for their maneuverability and overall value, making them a standout choice for travelers.
Perfect for Heavy Loads: Since you’re not carrying the weight, you can pack for longer trips without breaking a sweat.
Organized Packing: With multiple compartments, internal pockets, zippered compartments, and even hard shell designs, everything has its place—no mess.

But There’s a Catch

Rolling suitcases aren’t perfect. Here are some downsides you might encounter.

Limited Versatility: A rolling suitcase is great for smooth floors and paved streets, but completely impractical for uneven terrain, backwoods trails, or tight airplane seats.
Bulkier Design: A hard shell suitcase or soft-sided bag takes up more space than the flexible design of a duffle—and good luck cramming it into a fully packed car trunk!
Packing in Tight Spaces Can Be Tricky: Overhead bins, overhead compartments, or storage under seats can be a tad unreliable if your suitcase is oversized.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Travel Bag

1. Duration and Type of Travel

Short Trips: For a quick weekend getaway, a soft-sided duffle bag or rolling duffel with ample space is usually perfect. Shoulder straps with ample padding and adjustability are crucial for comfort and convenience during these short trips.
Longer Trips: Heavy loads? Go for a rolling suitcase with enough room for a week’s worth of belongings.
Adventure Trips: If you’re packing bulky gear like a sleeping bag, look for travel duffels with durable materials.

2. Personal Travel Style

Are you a hands-free enthusiast who likes backpack straps? Or would you prefer a no-effort wheeled option? If you lean toward traveling light, soft-sided or one-bag solutions like duffles are ideal. Prefer convenience? Stick to the wheeled luggage club.

Navigating Airports and Transportation with Carry On

Dealing with overhead bins, navigating airports, or enduring long baggage claim waits? Roller bags are winners here. For quick moving across uneven terrain or dashing through train stations, the travel duffle edges out.

4. Size and Weight

When it comes to choosing between a duffel bag and a suitcase, size and weight are crucial factors to consider. Duffel bags are generally more compact and lightweight, making them ideal for carry-on luggage. They can easily fit into overhead bins and are perfect for travelers who prefer to pack light. However, be mindful that overpacking a duffel can make it heavy and cumbersome to carry.

For those considering a duffel bag, here are some size options to think about:

Small (20-30 liters): Ideal for short trips or as a carry-on, fitting comfortably in overhead bins.
Medium (40-60 liters): Suitable for most trips, offering ample space while still being manageable.
Large (80-100 liters): Perfect for long trips or packing bulky items, though it may need to be checked in.

On the other hand, suitcases, especially rolling ones, often come in larger sizes and can handle more weight without straining your shoulders. Here are typical suitcase sizes:

Small (20-24 inches): Ideal for carry-on luggage, fitting most airline requirements.
Medium (24-28 inches): Suitable for most trips, providing more space while still fitting in overhead bins.
Large (28-32 inches): Perfect for long trips or packing bulky items, though it may need to be checked in.

Always remember to check your airline’s size and weight requirements to avoid any surprises at the airport.

5. Durability and Quality

Durability and quality are essential when choosing between a duffel bag and a suitcase. Duffel bags are often made from lightweight materials, which can be prone to wear and tear. However, high-quality duffel bags made from durable materials like nylon or polyester can withstand rough handling and last for years.

Suitcases, particularly those with hard shells, offer excellent protection for your belongings. Hard shell suitcases are made from materials like polycarbonate or ABS plastic, providing a sturdy barrier against impacts. Soft-sided bags, while more flexible and lightweight, may not offer the same level of protection but are easier to squeeze into tight spaces.

When selecting a duffel bag or suitcase, look for these features to ensure durability:

Durable Materials: Opt for nylon or polyester for duffel bags, and polycarbonate or ABS for hard shell suitcases.
Reinforced Seams and Stress Points: Ensure the bag can handle heavy loads without tearing.
Heavy-Duty Zippers and Buckles: These components should be robust and reliable.
Water-Resistant or Waterproof Coating: Protects your belongings from the elements.

Choosing a bag with these features will help ensure it stands up to the rigors of travel.

6. Security and Safety

Security and safety are paramount when traveling, and your choice of luggage should reflect that. Both duffel bags and suitcases come with various security features designed to keep your belongings safe.

For duffel bags, look for models with multiple zippered pockets and compartments to keep your valuables organized and secure. Some duffel bags also come with lockable zippers, providing an extra layer of security.

Suitcases often come with built-in locks, and many are TSA-approved, allowing airport security to inspect your luggage without damaging the lock. Additionally, some suitcases feature RFID-blocking compartments to protect your passport and credit cards from electronic theft.

When choosing a duffel bag or suitcase, consider these security features:

TSA-Approved Locks: Ensure your bag can be securely locked and easily inspected by airport security.
Multiple Zippered Pockets and Compartments: Keep your belongings organized and secure.
RFID-Blocking Material: Protects your sensitive information from electronic theft.

By prioritizing these security features, you can travel with peace of mind knowing your belongings are safe.

Additional Considerations

Airline Size Requirements

Before making a purchase, it’s essential to check the airline’s size and weight requirements for carry-on and checked luggage. Most airlines have specific guidelines, and exceeding these limits can result in additional fees or even denied boarding.

When shopping for a duffel bag or suitcase, make sure to check the airline’s requirements and choose a bag that meets those standards. Here are some common size and weight requirements for popular airlines:

American Airlines: 22” x 14” x 9” for carry-on, 62 linear inches for checked luggage.
Delta Air Lines: 22” x 14” x 9” for carry-on, 62 linear inches for checked luggage.
United Airlines: 22” x 14” x 9” for carry-on, 62 linear inches for checked luggage.

Always check with your airline for the most up-to-date size and weight requirements to ensure a smooth travel experience.

Wrapping Up Our Journey

Choosing between a travel duffle and a travel roller bag ultimately boils down to your needs and preferences.

Pick a duffle bag if you value versatility, lightweight travel, and navigating uneven terrain.
Opt for a rolling suitcase for heavy loads, organized packing, and effortless maneuverability over long distances.

Take a moment to evaluate your next trip’s requirements before committing to either bag. Remember, it’s not just luggage—it’s your travel companion.

Still unsure? Share your travel plans in the comments or reach out—we’d love to help you pick the perfect bag.

Happy travels! 😄