Beyond the main suitcase or backpack, the right secondary bag can transform how a trip functions — from a duffel for weekend trips to a day bag for exploring. Here are the best travel bags for different uses.
Duffels for Short Trips
A soft-sided duffel is ideal for weekend trips and as an under-seat personal item on flights. Look for one that compresses when empty but expands enough to carry a few days of gear.
Carry-On Hardside Cases
For longer trips or business travel, a quality hardside spinner offers the best luggage protection. The Away The Carry-On and Samsonite Winfield 2 are top picks in our reviews — durable, TSA-lock equipped, and well-sized for most airlines.
Day Bags & Totes
A lightweight day bag for exploring — keeping essentials like a water bottle, sunscreen, camera, and light jacket — is one of the most useful travel items. Look for a secure zip, comfortable straps, and a small enough footprint for museum cloak rooms.
Packing Organisers
Packing cubes, toiletry bags, and makeup bags keep the inside of your main bag organised and accessible. See our reviews of the BagSmart packing cubes set and the EACHY makeup bag for tested recommendations.
Frequently Asked Questions
It depends on the trip style. For carry-on-only travel, a 40L travel backpack (like the Osprey Farpoint 40) is the most versatile. For longer trips, a quality hardside spinner carry-on with a packable day bag as the personal item is a flexible and protective combination.