Seven Weekender Bags For the Short-Term Traveler

June 12, 2018

If you’re one of the lucky ones who works for a company that believes in “Summer Fridays,” your weekends are about to get approximately six hours longer starting next week. Even though summer doesn’t technically kick off until June 21, Memorial Day (in all of its sun-soaked glory) often serves as the unofficial marker for when taking long weekends is not only acceptable, but encouraged. Jaunts to the Hamptons or Malibu result in more Vitamin D intake, and more Vitamin D intake results in happier employees. It’s a win-win, right?

If you’re not one of the aforementioned lucky ones, it might be time to convince your boss to consider shortened seasonal hours. (As reported by Bloomberg, the trend of companies offering this perk is on a major upswing.) And when your boss finally gives in, you will be in need of a quality weekender bag for all of your two-and-a-half day getaways.

Not sure where to start? You’ll want it to be stylish but still durable, roomy but convenient. A mini roller bag? Forget it. If you’ve ever tried to navigate Penn Station on a Friday afternoon while dragging what is essentially a wheeled tripwire then you know how ridiculously inconvenient they are. Duffles are where it’s at in terms of practicality, appearance, and ease. Whether you have a taste for leather trim and upscale hardware or simply require something that can withstand the elements, there’s a weekender bag that will tick all your boxes and more. Below are seven of the most handsome options out there.

1. PX Clothing Marcel Two Tone Duffle Bag, $75

Everything we make is created with comfort, style, and wearability in mind, and this vegan leather duffle bag is no different. Made from a durable polyurethane that boasts a dappled suede-like appearance, it’s outfitted with a large external pocket and interior zip wall pockets for optimal storage and organization. A detachable adjustable shoulder strap makes for easy carrying, while its laid-back, slightly vintage vibe makes it easy on the eyes.

2. REI Co-op Roadtripper Duffel, $39.95

If you prefer tents and hiking to Airbnbs and poolside lazing when it comes to your weekend getaways, consider this durable duffle.The polyester coating offers protection from whatever elements you might encounter, especially water. If you’re planning on buying souvenirs on your next vacation, this bag will be your perfect accomplice; it can be folded down and stowed within its own side pocket, meaning you can bring it to your destination in compact form and open it up when you need the extra space.

3. Herschel Novel Duffle, $99.99

Herschel is a known purveyor of relaxed cool, as exemplified by this navy duffle. Although it looks like a typical weekender bag upon first glance, you’ll notice it boasts a handy shoe compartment after further inspection. Genius.

4. Duluth Pack Sportsman’s Duffel, $435

One of the most expensive of the bunch, this bag is meant for those weekends when dressing to impress is imperative, whether because you’re traveling with your boss or to a high-brow location.  Its heavy-duty canvas body, premium leather trim and metal hardware detailing make it definitely worth the investment.

5. Everlane The Twill Weekender, $115

Much like us, Everlane is a brand that cares about creating quality products with ethically sourced materials. “Radical transparency” is their ethos and any time we can support a company with similar values, we do. This dipped navy weekender is made from 100% water-resistant cotton and is outfitted with leather straps.

6. Frye Company Logan Overnight, $598

If you’re into old school leather apothecary bags, this rugged weekender might be your modern day favorite. Made from pull up leather, it features a worn-in appearance that adds to its vintage appeal. Luggage tags and an internal zip pocket add stylish convenience.

7. PXClothing Gunner Vegan Leather Duffle Bag, $90

Is a $500 leather duffel bag a hard pill for you to swallow? Let our version, which is ridiculously affordable and vegan, be your no-guilt alternative. Our pebbled polyurethane material is so supple and convincing that you and all your travel buddies will think it’s the real thing.

Also in Blog