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While we all love an extended vacation, sometimes a quick trip for some much needed R&R is all you need. If you have a weekend trip already on the books, reaching for a solid weekender bag over a suitcase is best since it’s less bulky, a bit more flexible and is easier to just grab and go.
I’ve been testing and reviewing travel products for over six years and luggage is one of my main areas of expertise. In fact, I’ve tested loads of weekender bags and narrowed down my rankings to these seven.
This list includes weekender bags that fit a range of prices, sizes, materials and even compartment varieties.
From the most affordable pick that also happens to have a separate shoe compartment to a full leather option that’s sure to last you a lifetime, there’s something here for everyone.
How we test
When testing luggage and bags, we try them out for at least a week (usually longer) and take them on trips for real-life, practical trial-based testing.
We focus on durability, material retention, compartment convenience, storage ability and more.
From testing if a personal item bag slides easily under the seat on planes or if a carry-on complies with the overhead bin space requirements on most commercial airlines, we’ve put it all to the test.
Monos, Troubadour, Rothy’s, Dagne Dover and more make my list of the best weekender bags. Here are my thoughts — good and bad — on each pick
We then compare the findings to determine how well each bag performs so you can choose the best one for you.
Why trust us
Our expert team has been testing products and writing reviews for many years, covering a wide range of lifestyle picks.
Moriba has been thoroughly testing and reviewing travel products for over six years as an experienced writer and editor.
His reviews are honest, impartial and based on real-world testing to ensure you have all the information you need to make an informed buying decision.
Best weekender bags 2025
1. Best overall: Dagne Dover Extra Large Landon Neoprene Carryall
Dagne Dover Extra Large Landon Neoprene Carryall
A moldable, lightweight bag that expands for easy packing
US$260
Product SpecsTrolley sleeve?YesStandout featureExterior phone pocketDimensions20.5 inches L x 10.5 inches W x 13 inches HMaterialNeopreneWhat we love
LightweightThe bag’s neoprene fabric keeps it from weighing down, especially when not fully packed
Easy to cleanIt’s hand-washable. Just be sure to hang dry it and refrain from putting it in the dryer
Extra packing sourcesIt comes with an external shoe bag, key leash and zippered pouch
What could be better
May alter shapeSince this bag isn’t fully structured, when fully packed, it can take the shape of its contents
Review
Tested by Moriba Cummings
Throughout my testing period for these bags, I found that very few checked all of the main boxes that made for a stellar option: attainable price, spacious main compartment, lightweight build, extra storage options, etc. The Dagne Dover Extra Large Landon Neoprene Carryall was among a handful that fit the bill, across the board.
I put this to the test on a commercial flight from New York to San Francisco. On my departing flight, I stuffed it to the max to test if it would serve as a comfortable personal item bag, but found that, when at capacity, it’s more suitable as an overhead stowed carry-on. However, I packed it more lightly on my returning flight and found that it slides easily under the seat with no issues.
It’s also the lightest weekender bag I’ve used and that’s mostly due to its neoprene construction, which is also hand-washable.
Lastly, the extras you get with this bag are actually practical. It comes with an external shoe bag which I used to keep my sneakers from making contact with my clothes, a zippered pouch for any valuables (I used mine to store my jewelry), and a key leash which came in handy when I returned home.
All in all, this is an all-round solid weekender that’s worth the investment.
US$260
2. Best for organization: Monos Metro Weekender
Monos Metro Weekender
A roomy weekender with a deeper, more structured build and a spacious base compartment
US$295
Product SpecsDimensions19.25 inches L x 10.25 inches W x 14.75 inches HMaterialVegan leatherTrolley sleeve?YesStandout featureSeparate base storage compartmentWhat we love
Water-resistantYour bag will maintain its quality in a light drizzle
Large laptop sleeveFits up t a 16-inch laptop
Available in two materialsChoose from vegan leather or nylon (both water-resistant)
What could be better
Can get a bit heavyWhen fully packed, this bag can be a bit hefty
Deeper than most weekendersSince it has an upright build, this bag won’t qualify as a personal item on most commercial airlines
Review
Tested by Moriba Cummings
Having everything in its designated place is one of my travel must-haves and the Monos Metro Weekender made my type-A brain very pleased.
Just based on first-impressions, the bag is stunning and has a unique, tall build that isn’t like most bags in this category. The true star of the show, though, is the spacious bottom compartment that’s made for storing shoes, a toiletry bag or extra clothes.
I’ve tested this by storing all three on different occasions and had absolutely no hiccups. In fact, I stored a pair of size 13 shoes in that compartment and still had room to store a medium-sized tech pouch.
You get to choose between two materials when making your purchase: nylon and vegan leather. And the best part is that both are water-resistant, so you don’t have to worry about durability.
The main compartment is surprisingly extremely roomy, even when the bottom is stuffed. I was able to fit three changes of clothes in there with no issues.
The only qualm I have with this bag is its weight. It gets a bit heavy when packed to capacity, so if you’re not using it in conjunction with a roller carry-on, keep in mind that it’s not a lightweight piece. It also must be stowed in the overhead bin on planes since its dimensions surpass under-seat storage regulations.
US$295
3. Most affordable: Herschel Novel Duffle Tech
Herschel Novel Duffle Tech
Cost-efficient, compartment-packed and versatile
US$135.99US$160
Product SpecsMaterialRecycled polyesterTrolley sleeve?YesStandout featureSeparate shoe storage compartmentDimensions11 inches D x 20.5 inches W x 12.6 inches HWhat we love
Fleece-lined laptop compartmentYour device (up to 16 inches) will remain unscratched and well protected
Internal sleeveStore your tracking device here to always know where your bag is located
Approachable priceEven when not on sale, this weekender bag is one of the most affordable that you’ll find
Review
Tested by Moriba Cummings
I’m still in the process of testing this one, but it’s already on-track to becoming one of my favorites, solely based off of its price point and size.
The brand’s smaller Novel Duffle was one of the first weekender bags I’ve ever purchased, over 10 years ago, and it’s still held up well after more than a decade of wear and tear. This Tech version has the same features that I loved about the original — a separate shoe compartment, laptop sleeve, and approachable price — but is a bit larger and roomier.
The laptop compartment is also fleece-lined, so it will keep your device from scratching or moving around too much while you travel. The weekender bag’s deep build also allows you to fit much more than you probably need to pack.
[Review coming soon]
US$135.99US$160
4. Most compartment-heavy: Quince Transit Quilted Duffle Bag
Quince Transit Quilted Duffle Bag
Well-designed bag that’s versatile enough for use as a commuter or weekender
US$119.9
Product SpecsDimensions17.5 inches L x 7 inches W x 12 inches HMaterialRecycled polyester with Nappa leather trimsTrolley sleeve?YesStandout featureWater-resistant puffer textureWhat we love
Extra bag includedComes with detachable zipper pouch for storing small items
Compartment-packedThis bag has nine pockets in total for easy organization
Protective leather feetKeeps the bag safe when storing on the floor during travel
Review
Tested by Moriba Cummings
Quince is one of my favorite clothing brands, especially for affordable cashmere and wool pieces, since they cut out the middle man and, thus, offer more affordable prices for the same high-quality pieces than traditional retail.
While I was fixated on the brand’s clothing, it completely slipped my mind that the same philosophy applies to its travel accessories.
Puffer duffle bags have been so popular lately with this one from MZ Wallace standing as one of the pricier options that shoppers have on their wishlists.
The Quince Transit Quilted Duffle Bag is a much more affordable alternative. Its leather trims give it a premium touch and it comes with extras like a detachable zipper pouch for storing valuables and protective leather feet to keep the base clean when storing under the seat on planes.
Where this bag truly excels, though, is in its variety of storage compartments. There are nine pockets in total, making this a dream for the organized traveler.
If you’re looking for a weekender bag that has a massive amount of room in the main compartment, this may not be the one for you as it’s one of the most compact options on the list.
US$119.9
5. Roomiest weekender: Rothy’s Weekender
Rothy’s Weekender
You’ll pack this to the max and somehow still have room to spare
US$399
Product SpecsMaterialKnit (with combo of thread made from marine plastic and Rothy’s signature thread spun from plastic bottles)Trolley sleeve?NoStandout featureMachine-washableDimensions21.5 inches L x 13.8 inches H x 8.9 inches DWhat we love
Spacious main compartmentSince this bag has a loose structure, you’re able to pack more than you would in most weekenders
Easy to cleanThis weekender is machine-washable, but be sure to line dry (do not place in the dryer)
Durable designIts tight, unique knit weave makes this one of the most durable and aesthetically pleasing bags I’ve used
Review
Tested by Moriba Cummings
This bag has been my tried-and-true weekender for well over five years. It’s my dedicated road trip weekender since it’s the roomiest option that I’ve tested and if it gets a bit dirty, I can just toss it in the washing machine when I return home and air dry it.
Rothy’s is known for its machine-washable shoes and bags, so when I first tested this weekender bag just following its official launch years ago, I had high hopes, and it didn’t disappoint.
To this day, whenever I pack this bag for a trip, I’m marveled by how much it can hold. It even has a larger capacity than some of the expandable carry-on suitcases that I’ve tested over the years, and that’s due to its loose shape that’s easily moldable.
Because of this, the bag is able to contort to the shape of its contents, and that also means no struggling with the zipper when it’s time to close up shop.
I’ve used this bag on several flights as well and, similarly to the Dagne Dover Extra Large Landon Carryall, it fit easily under the seat when not packed to capacity. At the times when it was fully packed, it had to be stowed in the overhead bin and fit perfectly.
US$399
6. Best full-leather weekender: Troubadour Generation Leather Duffle
Troubadour Generation Leather Duffle
From design to organization, this bag is worth the investment
US$849
Product SpecsMaterialGenuine leatherTrolley sleeve?YesStandout featureUnique waterproof leather buildDimensions20.5 inches L x 11 inches H x 9.5 inches DWhat we love
Several concealed compartmentsThis bag has dedicated pockets for a laptop, keys, passport, water bottle, phone and more
Tear-resistantYou don’t have to worry about this bag denting and tearing thanks to its strong build
Waterproof leather buildIt’s made of a unique, durable European calfskin leather that’s also waterproof from the moment you take it out of the box
Review
Tested by Moriba Cummings
Leather weekender bags can be a bit tricky. More times than not, all of the effort is put into the craftsmanship and the functionality aspect leaves more to be desired.
Some have beautiful genuine leather builds, but are just a sack with a zipper — no compartments or built-in organization to be found. So, when I tried the Troubadour Generation Leather Duffle and saw that it was packed with compartments that actually made sense, and also had a strong, tear-resistant waterproof leather build, I was sold.
Most genuine leather goods that I’ve owned need to be treated to prevent water damage which, when traveling, can sometimes be inevitable. This bag comes with that feature already built into its framework.
And while it’s made of durable calfskin leather, it still remains lightweight, even when fully packed. It’s also tear-resistant, so you can rest assured that it will last you a lifetime, and, at such a premium price, that’s a non-negotiable.
In terms of compartments, it has a dedicated padded laptop pocket with a magnetic closure, several concealed internal pockets for storing everything from your phone to your water bottle, and two external pockets with magnetic closures for storing your passport, wallet and keys.
US$849
7. Most compact: Carl Friedrik Compact Weekender
Carl Friedrik Compact Weekender
Though smaller than most weekenders, this bag is sure to last a lifetime
US$445
Product SpecsDimensions18.1 inches W x 11 inches H x 7.3 inches DMaterialNylon with vachetta leather detailingTrolley sleeve?YesStandout featureFront slip pocketWhat we love
Extremely durableThis bag was made to last and is made of durable and high-quality materials
Timeless designIts simple and minimalistic build makes this a bag you can use for more than travel
Luxe detailsIncludes genuine leather detailing, nickel-plated hardware and comes in two finishes (nubuck or nylon).
What could be better
SizeIt moreso has the capacity of an overnight bag than a weekender
ExpensiveMay be too pricey for some shoppers, especially for its size
Review
Tested by Moriba Cummings
Those with a “less is more” approach to traveling may prefer a timeless, compact bag that isn’t a hassle to carry around. This pick from longstanding luxury bag brand Carl Friedrik checks all of those boxes, and then some.
This brand is known for its luxury full leather and leather-detailed bags, and this one is no exception. It’s simple and small enough to fit a couple outfits and a pair of shoes (depending on the size), but is small enough to fit under the seat on planes with ease.
I used this bag as a personal item on an international flight and had no issues at all. For reference, I’m 6-foot-2, and after sliding it under the seat in front of me, I had lots of space for my feet to rest — it looked almost like it was made for under-seat storage.
The bag even got slightly wet as I was leaving the airport, but thanks to the nylon exterior, the water slid right off and didn’t leave a mark.
This bag is a bit too compact for my weekender needs, but may be just the right size for someone who packs more minimally.
US$445
Our verdict
If I were to buy any of the weekender bags on this list, I would go with the Troubadour Generation Leather Duffle. Though it’s the priciest of the bunch, it’s turned out to be the most versatile, practical and easy to use, especially when traveling with other luggage pieces. Its multiple compartments, waterproof leather construction, built-in trolley sleeve, and roomy main compartment put it above the rest, making it my all-round favorite, based on functionality and design.
That $849 price tag is pretty steep, so if you’re looking for an option that’s more affordable and also includes most of the features that make the Troubadour pick a standout, the Dagne Dover Extra Large Landon Carryall would be a great runner-up. It comes with enough extra components to keep you organized while you travel, has a built-in trolley sleeve and is even expandable when you unsnap the sides.
FAQs
Do weekender bags count as carry-ons?
In short, it depends. Not all weekender bags are created equally, but the general rule of thumb is to ensure that your weekender fits within commercial airlines’ carry-on and personal item dimension guidelines if you plan on taking it on an aircraft.
While some airlines’ guidelines may differ by an inch or two, the standard overhead bin carry-on luggage size limit is usually 22 x 14 x 9 inches, including the handle, wheels and any protruding straps or pockets. Some domestic airlines like Southwest Airlines and Frontier allow up to 24-inch carry-ons, though.
If you don’t want to stow your weekender bag overhead, it must fit within the personal item bag dimension guidelines for most commercial airlines. Size permissions vary depending on plane size and airline. Check out the different personal item size guidelines across a few major airlines below:
Delta: 22 x 15 x 9 inchesJetBlue: 17 x 13 x 8 inchesUnited: 17 x 10 x 9 inchesSouthwest: 16.25 x 13.5 x 8 inchesAmerican: 18 x 14 x 8 inches
So, all in all, yes — weekenders do technically count as carry-ons. You just need to make sure they fit within either your airline’s carry-on or personal item dimension guidelines and stow them accordingly.
What are the best brands for weekender bags?
Based on my tests and personal experience as a travel writer and editor, Rothy’s, Troubadour, Dagne Dover and Herschel are the best weekender bag brands you will find. I’ve based this decision on product diversity, the quality for the price and functionality.
Troubadour focuses on quality over quantity, offering very few weekender bag options, and, instead, focusing on perfecting the three that it offers: the Generation Leather Duffle, the Apex Travel Duffle and the Apex Everyday Duffle. The Rothy’s Weekender is the only one on the brand’s roster and is one of my most-used for its spaciousness and machine-washable build. Dagne Dover’s Landon Carryall makes the cut for one of the best since it’s an all-round well-designed bag and comes in four sizes for you to choose from based on your needs.
The Rothy’s Weekender may be the least structured, but it is, hands down, the roomiest
And in terms of price, the Herschel Novel Duffle Tech gives you so much bang for your buck, especially when it competes with the much pricier options on the list in compartment variety and main compartment size.
What is another name for a weekender bag?
Weekender bags go by different names depending on your region. They’re also called vacationers, duffle/duffel bags and handle carry-on bags.
Some call weekender bags overnight bags, but in my experience, overnight bags are a bit smaller since they’re meant to house enough clothes for one night. Whereas, weekender bags are designed to be roomy enough to fit enough clothes for two to three days.
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