Duffel bags are often cheaper than traditional checked luggage, and they’re easy to pack. But not all duffel bags are created equal. Some are designed for carrying on board, while others can handle being used as a checked bag. So, which type of duffel bag should you use for checked luggage? Let’s take a closer look.
Can You Use a Duffel Bag As Checked Luggage?
Are duffle bags allowed as checked luggage? You can use a duffel bag as checked luggage as long as it meets the airline’s size and weight requirements.
Measure your duffel bag before packing it to ensure that it meets the size requirements for checked luggage. Most airlines have a 62 linear-inch size limit for checked baggage, so make sure your duffel bag is no more than 62 linear inches in total length, width, and height.
Also, most airlines have a 50-pound weight limit for checked luggage, so check with your airline to see if your duffel bag falls within their weight restrictions.
Duffle Bag for Checked Luggage Size and Weight Requirements
- Size: 62 linear inches (Length + Width + Height)
- Weight: 50-pounds
Is It Safe To Check a Duffel Bag
Yes, it is safe to check a duffel bag as long as it is made of durable material and you lock it with a TSA-compliant lock.
A duffel bag is an excellent option for carrying your belongings when traveling, as it is spacious and can be easily carried.
However, before checking your duffel bag, ensure that all of your items are securely packed and that the bag is properly closed and locked.
Additionally, if you plan to carry valuables in your duffel bag, we recommend storing them in a locked compartment or container within the bag. Following these simple precautions will help ensure that your belongings stay safe during transit.
Can You Use a Gym Bag As Luggage?
While you can technically use a gym bag as luggage, it’s important to remember that they’re not typically built to withstand the same level of wear and tear as actual suitcases or pieces of luggage.
Gym bags are often made from lighter-weight materials and may not have the same padded support or reinforced stitching that dedicated pieces of luggage have.
Unfortunately, this means that your gym bag is more likely to tear or break if it’s mishandled by baggage handlers at the airport.
If you’re planning to use a gym bag as your only piece of luggage on a trip, be sure to pack carefully and choose a bag made from sturdy, durable materials.
Best Rolling Duffel Checked Luggage
Pathfinder Gear 26 Inch Rolling Drop Bottom Duffel, Olive, One Size
The Pathfinder Gear 26 Inch Rolling Drop-Bottom Duffel (Buy Online) is perfect for anyone looking for a durable duffel bag. It features a top access main compartment, bottom expansion zipper, and heavy-duty one-touch push-button handle. Plus, it comes with oversized corner-mounted wheels for easy transport.
You’ll be able to pack everything you need for your next trip in this spacious duffel bag. The gusset front pocket has two separate sections and tie-down straps in the bottom compartment, so you can stay organized on the go. And you don’t have to worry about damage from rough handling since the rugged base will keep your belongings safe and sound.
Eddie Bauer Expedition 30 Duffel 2.0, Black ONE SIZE
Eddie Bauer’s Expedition 30 Duffel 2.0 (Buy Online) is the best rolling duffel that can be used as checked luggage for several reasons. It has a two-section main compartment with an under-lid zip pocket, which is great for storing items you want to keep separate from the rest of your belongings.
It also has a separate laundry cinch pocket with Polygiene odor control, which is perfect for keeping dirty clothes separate from the rest of your clothes.
Plus, it has integrated compression straps that eliminate loose strap ends, so you don’t have to worry about your straps getting tangled. And it has a retracting telescoping handle, so you can easily carry it around.
And it has a drop bottom with lockable zips for extra storage, so you can store more items in it than in a regular duffel bag.
Overall, Eddie Bauer’s Expedition 30 Duffel 2.0 is the best rolling duffel because it is super durable, lightweight, and easy to roll.
Gonex Rolling Duffle Bag with Wheels, 70L Water Repellent Wheeled Travel Duffel Luggage with Rollers 25 inch, Black
The Gonex Rolling Duffle Bag (Buy Online) is the perfect bag for people who love the outdoors. This checked luggage duffel bag is made from waterproof and wear-resistant 1200D high-density PVC fabric, so it will stand up to even the most strenuous trips. The large capacity main compartment allows you to pack everything you need, while the separate storage compartments will keep your essentials easily accessible. Plus, it’s extremely durable, so it can withstand being tossed around by baggage handlers.
SOLO Leroy Carry-On Wheeled Duffle Bag, 49L Capacity, Grey, 22 Inch
The SOLO Leroy Carry-On Wheeled Duffle Bag (Buy Online) makes traveling with luggage a breeze. This wheeled duffle bag is roomy enough for all of your belongings and comes with easy glide wheels and a telescoping handle system for easy transport. Plus, the separate laundry/shoe compartment keeps your clothes and shoes clean and organized. Best of all, it meets the checked luggage requirements for most major airlines.
Best Duffel Bag for Checked Luggage
Thule Chasm Sport Duffel Bag 90L
The Thule Chasm Sport Duffel Bag (Buy Online) is the best high-capacity duffel for checked luggage. This bag is Thule’s largest Sport Duffel yet, and it’s perfect for longer trips or hauling lots of gear. The Thule Chasm Sport Duffel Bag is made from durable, weather-resistant materials, and it features an oversized main compartment with internal mesh pockets and an external compression strap.
The Thule Chasm Sport Duffel Bag also has a spacious packing area, a padded bottom, and a convenient storage pouch. Overall, this bag is the perfect choice for travelers who need a lot of space and want a bag that will protect their belongings from the elements.
Carhartt Legacy Gear Bag
Carhartt’s Legacy Gear Bag (Buy Online) is the best duffel bag for checked luggage, hands-down. Carhartt is a company known for toughness and durability, and their Legacy Gear Bag lives up to that reputation.
This duffel bag is made from a synthetic material that is water repellent and can withstand years of heavy use. The Duravax base is also resistant to abrasion, ensuring that your bag will look great even after being thrown around by baggage handlers.
The large main compartment provides plenty of space for all your gear, while the padded handles make it easy to grab and go. And the removable padded shoulder strap ensures comfort during long trips, and the triple-needle stitched seams make this bag built to last.
Whether you’re headed out on a long trip or a weekend getaway, Carhartt’s Legacy Gear Bag is the perfect duffel bag to use as checked luggage.
Mission Darkness X2 Faraday Duffel Bag
The Mission Darkness X2 Faraday Duffel Bag (Buy Online) is the best choice for those looking for a durable and reliable bag to use as their checked luggage. The bag is made of military-grade materials and is designed to withstand the rigors of travel.
Additionally, the bag’s RF signal-blocking liner protects your belongings from electronic pickpocketing, and the detachable MOLLE faraday pouch helps to keep your devices charged and ready to use. And this duffel bag measures 26″ x 13″ x 13″, making it the perfect size for carrying all of your essentials.
Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, the Mission Darkness X2 Faraday Duffel Bag is the perfect choice for keeping your belongings safe and secure.
Polare 30″ Leather Duffel Weekender Travel Bag For Men With Full Grain Cowhide Leather XX-Large 72L
If you’re looking for a high-quality duffel bag that will last a lifetime, the Polare 30″ Leather Duffel Weekender Travel Bag (Buy Online) is a great option. Made of full-grain cowhide leather, it’s highly durable and looks great. Custom metal hardware adds an extra touch of style, and the bag comes in a handsome brown color. Measuring 30″L x 11.5″W x 12.6″, it’s large enough to hold everything you need for a weekend away but not so big that it’s cumbersome to carry. Highly recommended!
Foldable Duffel Bag for Checked Luggage
Gonex 100L Large Foldable Travel Duffle Bag
The Gonex 100L Large Foldable Travel Duffle Bag (Buy Online) is a great option for those looking for a reliable and spacious duffel bag. Made from 210D nylon fabric, it is water repellent and wear-resistant, making it perfect for carrying all your belongings on long journeys.
The main compartment is spacious and has two separate pockets, perfect for storing all your essentials. The bag also has reinforced major stress points and premium metal zippers, ensuring that it can withstand the rigors of travel.
It folds down to a small 13 x 13.78-inch package but unfolds to 31.89 x 11.81 x 16.14 inches, which is perfect for checked luggage.
Whether you’re taking a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, the Gonex 100L Large Foldable Travel Duffle Bag is an excellent choice for transporting all your belongings.
TSA Approved Duffle Bag Locks
Master Lock 4688D Set Your Own Combination TSA Approved Luggage Lock
The Master Lock Set Your Own Combination TSA Approved Luggage Lock (Buy Online) is an excellent option for those looking for a reliable and durable duffle bag lock. The metal body construction of the lock ensures durability, while the vinyl-covered cable is resistant to abuse from baggage handling equipment. Plus, the Master Lock 4688D is available in black, blue, red, and silver.
Master Lock 4689T TSA Approved Keyed Lock, 2 Pack
Master Lock is a trusted name when it comes to security, and their 4689T TSA Approved Keyed Lock (Buy Online) is a great option for keeping your belongings safe while traveling.
The 1 in. wide lock body and 1/8 in. diameter shackle are made from durable materials, and the locks are available in four different colors.
This small lock is best used for backpacks, duffel bags, briefcases, and luggage, and the convenient front access luggage lock set comes with two locks that can be opened with the same key, making it ideal for those with multiple bags.
Whether you’re looking for extra security on your next trip or just want peace of mind, Master Lock’s 4689T TSA Approved Keyed Lock is a great choice.
TUMI – Travel Accessories Luggage Locks – Set of 3 TSA-Approved Lock – Black/Red/Silver
TUMI (Buy Online) has long been synonymous with quality and durability, and their TSA-approved locks are no exception. These locks are thoughtfully designed to secure your belongings while still being easy to use. The sleek, compact design is also perfect for those who want to travel light, and the included gift box makes it a great present for the globetrotter in your life. So whether you’re looking for a gift for a loved one or simply wanting to upgrade your own travel accessories, Tumi’s TSA-approved locks are a great option
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