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10 Best Travel Bags 2026 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry on Soft Travel Underseat Tote Bag, Weekender, Overnight, Men and Women, Vintage Grey, 16.5 Inch

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,376
Compartments and Organization
Size and Capacity
Material

Most important from
50 reviews

Compartments and Organization
The tote impresses with its many pockets and quality craftsmanship, featuring elegant leather trim and a comfortable shoulder strap.
Size and Capacity
Despite its slim profile, the tote holds more than the average computer bag, making it a practical choice for tech gear.
Material
While pricier than some alternatives, the bag’s durability and thoughtful features justify the investment.

The Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry On Underseat Tote is a solid choice for travelers looking for a compact and durable bag that fits under most airline seats. Its size (16.5 inches long, 10.25 inches high, and 7.5 inches wide) and 22-liter capacity make it suitable for short trips or as an additional carry-on bag. The high-density fabric with DuraGuard coating and full-grain leather accents give it good resistance against stains and wear, while the eco-friendly lining made from recycled plastic bottles adds an environmental bonus.

This tote is lightweight at just 2 pounds, making it easy to carry. It offers thoughtful organization with padded sleeves for laptops up to 14 inches and tablets, plus a convenient QuickSlip front pocket with a magnetic closure for secure and quick access to essentials. The bag doesn’t have wheels, but it includes a removable, adjustable shoulder strap for hands-free comfort. It also features a rear strap to attach the bag to a rolling suitcase handle for easier mobility.

Security-wise, the magnetic closure on the front pocket and reliable YKK zippers enhance protection, though it lacks lockable compartments. The soft construction helps the bag fit into tight spaces under seats or in overhead bins. The bag suits frequent flyers or business travelers who need a lightweight, durable, and well-organized underseat bag without the bulk of wheels. If you prefer rolling luggage or need more capacity, this might feel limited. The included limited lifetime warranty and repair coverage for airline damage provide additional peace of mind. This bag successfully blends practical features with quality materials to meet the needs of many travelers seeking a reliable, eco-conscious carry-on tote.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,376
Compartments and Organization
Size and Capacity
Material

Most important from
50 reviews

Compartments and Organization
The tote impresses with its many pockets and quality craftsmanship, featuring elegant leather trim and a comfortable shoulder strap.
Size and Capacity
Despite its slim profile, the tote holds more than the average computer bag, making it a practical choice for tech gear.
Material
While pricier than some alternatives, the bag’s durability and thoughtful features justify the investment.
#2

Briggs & Riley Weekender Duffle - Carry On Travel Bag for Women & Men, Overnight Luggage, Lightweight, Fits Most Overhead Bins, Shoulder Strap, Slip-Through Back Panel - Baseline Collection, Black

Rating
10.0
Size and Capacity
Material
Weight

Most important from
251 reviews

Size and Capacity
The duffel bag is praised for its ability to fold flat, making it an excellent backup option for additional luggage during return trips.
Material
Durability is a standout feature, with the handle straps designed to last long and not rip loose at the attachment points.
Weight
The bag's lack of structure makes it lighter and easier to store, which some users appreciate despite it not holding its shape.
Wheels and Handles
Zippers function well and slide easily over rolling luggage handles, enhancing its usability for frequent travelers.

The Briggs & Riley Weekender Duffle in Black offers a robust and elegant travel solution with several noteworthy features. The bag is made from ballistic nylon, a material known for its durability and resistance to water and wear, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of frequent travel. Its slip-through back panel is particularly useful for those who travel with multiple bags as it allows the duffle to slide over the handle of a rolling bag, making transportation more convenient. Additionally, the premium leather touchpoints add a touch of sophistication and comfort during handling.

With a spacious main compartment and two elastic bloused pockets, the bag provides ample storage space and organization options. The hide-away ID tag and SpeedThru pocket with an orange lining are thoughtful additions for security and quick access. While it does not include wheels, which might be a limitation for some users, the construction and thoughtful design features make it a strong candidate for those looking for a durable and stylish weekender bag.

Rating
10.0
Size and Capacity
Material
Weight

Most important from
251 reviews

Size and Capacity
The duffel bag is praised for its ability to fold flat, making it an excellent backup option for additional luggage during return trips.
Material
Durability is a standout feature, with the handle straps designed to last long and not rip loose at the attachment points.
Weight
The bag's lack of structure makes it lighter and easier to store, which some users appreciate despite it not holding its shape.
Wheels and Handles
Zippers function well and slide easily over rolling luggage handles, enhancing its usability for frequent travelers.
#3

TUMI - Voyageur Valetta Tote - Women's Carryall Bag, Lightweight and Roomy, Functional Purse for Everyday, Business & Travel - Large, Black & Gold Hardware

Rating
9.7
Size and Capacity
Material
Weight

Most important from
92 reviews

Size and Capacity
Sleek, smooth, sturdy, and sophisticated bag perfect for carrying around a 15-inch laptop, planner, and water bottle.
Material
Magnets cinch the sides beautifully, and the zippers are durable and sturdy.
Weight
Highly functional travel bag that's light, durable, and stylish with lots of pockets.
Compartments and Organization
Highly functional travel bag that's light, durable, and stylish with lots of pockets.

The TUMI Voyageur Valetta Tote is a stylish and functional bag designed for women who need a reliable carryall for everyday use, business, and travel. It has a roomy interior with a spacious design, making it easy to fit essentials, including a padded laptop compartment which is great for business trips. The multiple pockets help keep accessories and smaller items organized, a big plus for travel and daily use.

The tote is crafted from 80% nylon and 20% leather, featuring a water and stain-resistant coating, which enhances its durability and helps in maintaining its sleek look. At 1.62 pounds, it is lightweight, ensuring it doesn't add unnecessary weight to your load. The detachable crossbody strap adds versatility, allowing you to carry it on your shoulder or across your body for hands-free convenience.

It lacks wheels, which might be a drawback for those who prefer rolling their bags, especially on longer trips. Comfort-wise, the tote's design is user-friendly, but the absence of padded handles might make carrying it for an extended period less comfortable. The five-year warranty for most TUMI products provides added peace of mind. This bag is best suited for women looking for a durable, stylish, and highly functional tote for daily use and short travel. For extended travel or if you need wheeled convenience, it might not be the perfect match.

Rating
9.7
Size and Capacity
Material
Weight

Most important from
92 reviews

Size and Capacity
Sleek, smooth, sturdy, and sophisticated bag perfect for carrying around a 15-inch laptop, planner, and water bottle.
Material
Magnets cinch the sides beautifully, and the zippers are durable and sturdy.
Weight
Highly functional travel bag that's light, durable, and stylish with lots of pockets.
Compartments and Organization
Highly functional travel bag that's light, durable, and stylish with lots of pockets.

Buying Guide for the Best Travel Bags

Choosing the right travel bag can make your trips more comfortable and stress-free. The perfect travel bag should suit your travel style, be durable, and have the right features to meet your needs. Here are some key specifications to consider when selecting a travel bag, along with explanations to help you make an informed decision.
Size and CapacitySize and capacity refer to the dimensions and volume of the travel bag. This is important because it determines how much you can pack and whether the bag meets airline carry-on requirements. Travel bags come in various sizes, from small carry-ons to large checked luggage. If you often take short trips, a smaller bag (20-30 liters) might be sufficient. For longer trips, consider a medium (30-50 liters) or large bag (50+ liters). Choose a size that fits your travel duration and packing habits.
MaterialThe material of a travel bag affects its durability, weight, and water resistance. Common materials include nylon, polyester, and leather. Nylon and polyester are lightweight and often water-resistant, making them good for various travel conditions. Leather is stylish and durable but heavier and less water-resistant. If you need a rugged bag for outdoor adventures, look for high-denier nylon or polyester. For business trips, a sleek leather bag might be more appropriate.
WeightThe weight of the travel bag itself is crucial, especially if you need to adhere to airline weight limits or plan to carry the bag for extended periods. Lightweight bags are easier to handle and reduce the overall load. Travel bags can range from ultra-light (under 2 pounds) to heavy-duty (over 5 pounds). If you prioritize ease of movement, opt for a lighter bag. For those who need more durability and protection, a slightly heavier bag might be worth the trade-off.
Compartments and OrganizationCompartments and organization features help you keep your belongings sorted and easily accessible. Look for bags with multiple pockets, dividers, and specialized compartments (e.g., for laptops or shoes). This is important for staying organized and protecting delicate items. If you carry a lot of gadgets, a bag with padded tech compartments is ideal. For those who prefer minimal packing, fewer compartments might be sufficient.
Wheels and HandlesWheels and handles affect the ease of transporting your travel bag. Bags can have two wheels, four wheels (spinner), or no wheels. Two-wheel bags are stable on uneven surfaces, while four-wheel bags offer 360-degree maneuverability on smooth floors. Handles should be sturdy and comfortable to grip. If you travel through airports frequently, a four-wheel spinner bag can be very convenient. For rugged terrain, a two-wheel bag or a backpack might be better.
Security FeaturesSecurity features like lockable zippers, RFID protection, and anti-theft designs help keep your belongings safe. This is important for preventing theft and ensuring peace of mind. Lockable zippers are useful for all travelers, while RFID protection is essential if you carry credit cards or passports with RFID chips. Choose security features based on the value of your belongings and the safety of your travel destinations.
ComfortComfort features such as padded straps, ergonomic designs, and breathable materials make carrying your travel bag more pleasant. This is important for reducing strain and fatigue, especially during long journeys. If you carry your bag for extended periods, look for padded shoulder straps and back panels. For rolling bags, ensure the handle height is comfortable for your posture.

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