What is a duffel bag? Explanation, uses, litres and sizes
- , by Miquell Hellings
- 6 min read
A duffel bag is a spacious, soft travel bag with a large main compartment and often a zip running along the length. Thanks to its flexible material, low weight and multiple carrying options - handles and a shoulder strap - a duffel is ideal for travel, sports and weekend trips. Modern duffels come in various capacities and materials such as sturdy polyester or nylon, sometimes water-repellent or fully foldable. At ByMetz.nl, for example, you can find the lightweight Samsonite Foldable Duffle XL, which folds compactly into its internal storage pocket. Want to compare models? View all travel bags (duffel bags).
How do you use a duffel bag in practice?
The strength of a duffel lies in its simplicity and volume. For a weekend away or a city trip, you pack clothes, shoes and a toiletry bag in the main compartment, while small essentials fit in the front pockets. Going to the gym? You can easily take sportswear, a towel and a water bottle, and keep your shoes separate with an extra compartment. Travellers appreciate that a soft duffel adapts to the available space in the car, train or airplane overhead compartment. It is also comfortable to carry over your shoulder in busy stations or through narrow aisles. Preferably choose a model with a wide U-shaped zip opening, so you can reach your belongings quickly without unpacking everything.
Types and sizes of duffel bags
The size you choose depends on how you use it and how you pack. As a rule of thumb, litres are the easiest way to compare:
- 20-35 litres - Compact for the gym, a day trip or light hand luggage. Often fits easily in luggage compartments and stays easy to handle.
- 40-50 litres - All-round weekend size. Spacious enough for 2-3 days of clothes, an extra pair of shoes and a toiletry bag.
- 60-75 litres - For longer trips or multiple sports outfits. Still carryable over the shoulder, but noticeably roomier.
- 80-100 litres - Large volume for holidays or outdoor trips. Useful as checked luggage when flexibility matters more than a hard-shell suitcase.
Not sure what capacity you need in litres? Read: How many liters travel bag do I need?
Besides capacity, also look at the construction: fully foldable duffels can be stored very compactly at home or inside your suitcase, ideal as an extra bag for the return trip. Models with reinforced bottoms, compression straps and multiple pockets offer more organisation and protection. Wheels are less common on classic duffels, but they do exist - if you want rolling comfort, a travel bag with wheels or suitcase may be worth considering. Not sure whether to choose a travel bag with wheels or without? This guide explains the differences and helps you decide.
Material and origin: what is duffel material and where does the name come from?
Historically, duffel refers to a thick woollen cloth from Duffel, Belgium. The original military bags were made from it. Modern duffel bags mainly use synthetic fabrics such as polyester or nylon, often with a PU or TPU coating for extra water resistance and durability. Canvas and leather are also used and give a more casual or premium look. If you want a travel bag that can handle a splash, choose water-repellent material with well-protected zips. For truly wet conditions, a waterproof travel bag with welded seams is a better choice.
Hand luggage on a plane: does a duffel work as a cabin bag?
Many duffels are suitable as hand luggage, as long as the external dimensions and weight stay within your airline's limits. If you are specifically looking for a hand luggage duffel, always check the product dimensions and match them to the correct baggage category. For Ryanair, these categories and sizes apply:
- Free small personal bag - 40 x 30 x 20 cm. This is a small personal bag that fits under the seat.
- 10 kg cabin bag - 55 x 40 x 20 cm. Paid cabin baggage that fits in the overhead compartments.
- 20 kg check-in bag - Maximum dimensions 80 x 120 x 120 cm.
- 23 kg check-in bag - Maximum dimensions 80 x 120 x 120 cm.
So choose your duffel based on the intended category. A compact, foldable duffel is often ideal as a 10 kg cabin bag. If you are travelling with more room, a larger duffel is suitable as checked luggage. Tip: a soft bag can shape itself slightly in the luggage compartment, but never exceed the stated size.
What should you look for when buying a duffel bag?
Start with capacity and size: match the litre capacity to your trip length and carrying comfort. Pay attention to the zip opening - a wide U-shape is the most convenient. Still in doubt? Read: how to choose the right travel bag. Also check:
- Carrying comfort - Padded, adjustable shoulder strap and sturdy handles.
- Organisation - Smart outer pockets for passport, chargers and keys, plus internal pockets for small items.
- Material - Durable and water-repellent for everyday travel use, or fully waterproof for outdoor use.
- Storage convenience - Foldable models save space at home and while travelling.
- Weight - Lighter is better, especially if you often lift your bag or need to stay within strict weight limits.
A practical example is the Samsonite Foldable Duffle XL at ByMetz.nl: lightweight, fully foldable into the internal pocket, with a spacious main compartment, three front pockets, handles and a detachable adjustable shoulder strap. As an official dealer, ByMetz.nl offers full brand warranty, free shipping from €29 and support via the shop in Eindhoven or customer service. That way, you can choose the duffel that suits your travel style with confidence.
Frequently asked questions
How many litres should my duffel bag be?
For a short trip or the gym, 20-35 litres is often enough. For a weekend away, 40-50 litres is comfortable. If you take extra shoes or bulkier clothing, you will quickly end up at 60-75 litres. Long holidays or gear-heavy sports may require 80 litres or more.
Is it duffel or duffle?
Both spellings are used. In Dutch you usually see duffel, and in English both duffel and duffle are common. The name comes from the Belgian town of Duffel, after which the original fabric was named.
What is the best material for a duffel bag?
For general travel, nylon and polyester perform well thanks to their low weight and durability, ideally with a water-repellent coating. Canvas has a rugged look but can be heavier. For wet conditions, choose a waterproof duffel with welded seams and protected zips.
What is the ideal travel bag for hand luggage on a plane?
Choose a duffel that fits exactly within your airline's limits. For Ryanair, that means 55 x 40 x 20 cm as a 10 kg cabin bag, or 40 x 30 x 20 cm as a free small personal bag. Besides the dimensions, also check the empty weight so you stay within the weight rules.