Throughout the years, we’ve had to lug our fair share of luggage through airports, across cobblestone streets, and up steep hills. Let us tell you, a rolling duffel bag can be a lifesaver in these situations when you just need an alternative to slinging it over your shoulder. Enhancing an ordinary duffel bag with wheels and a handle really gives it the ultimate maneuverability. Not only do these rolling marvels offer more packing space than your average backpack, but they also make your load feel significantly lighter and easy to bring about. Below are some of our top picks for the best rolling duffel bags that will help make your globetrotting life a breeze.
What is the Best Rolling Duffel Bag?
We have compiled for you the top 8 Best Rolling Duffel Bag in 2023. In this article we go through the products that we have used ourselves, checked what other users thought about them and we ranked them accordingly.
With years of experience with duffel bags with wheels and having used several rolling duffel bags you can trust our review.
Moreover, you can scroll to the end of this review to see our mini buying guide as well as the answers to some of the frequently asked questions about rolling duffel bags.
1. Olympia 8 Pocket Rolling Duffel Bag
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| Price: 💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Capacity: 118 liters Size: 33 x 15.5 x 14 inches (83.8 x 39.4 x 35.6 cm) Material: 1200D Polyester Wheels: Yes Water Resistant: no Waterproof: no Converts to a Backpack: no |
The Olympic 33-inch duffel bag with wheels features eight pockets in both the main compartment and on the exterior to organize all your essentials. The 33-inch duffel bag is the largest size weighing at 7.1lbs when empty. It is slightly bigger for carry-on luggage. However, if the weight is below the maximum requirements, you may not have to pay for the extra weight. We love that the wheels are wide apart, and the back and side do seem to have some structure to it, which means that the duffel bag will not wobble and tip over when rushing through the airport.
Pros
- Eight pockets for keeping knickknacks and small items,
- Recessed in-line metal bearing wheel system with upright support,
- Seven colors in five different sizes for choice,
- Has a structure that keeps it upright,
- Generous main compartment with a wide opening,
- Folds completely for compact storage,
- Padded top handles for lifting
Cons
- The base will collapse under a heavy load,
- The telescopic handle doesn’t lock when pulled out
2. Eagle Creek No Matter What Wheeled Duffel Bag
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| Price: 💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Capacity: 133 liters Size: 36 x 15 x 14 inches (91.4 x 38.1 x 35.6 cm) Material: Bi-tech fabric Wheels: Yes Water Resistant: yes Waterproof: no Converts to a Backpack: no |
This 36-inch wheeled duffel bag by Eagle Creek that features a water and abrasion resistant Bi Tech fabric construction for durability. The heavy-duty wheels are protected by a protective housing and kick plate that allows you to roll the bag on any surface without damaging it or yourself.
For added storage, you get two side mesh pockets for keeping your quick access items like keys and water bottle, interior compression straps to keep your gear compact in size for easy transport, and a separate inner storage pouch for dirty clothes or shoes. The bag has a durable, lockable zipper and comes with side handles that you can use to carry it as a duffel bag or on your shoulder.
The product is best suited for air travel because of its lightweight design and reinforced zippers. It also features heavy-duty padded straps that come in handy for long distance transportation.
In terms of storage space, you can fit all your luggage inside this large duffel bag with ease. Saying that, the biggest downside to this product is the difficulty of rolling it on uneven surfaces without tipping over.
Pros
- Multiple color choices,
- Quick access side pockets for travel documents,
- Side and top handles to carry as a duffel bag or suitcase,
- Water and abrasion-resistant construction with reinforced zippers,
- Separate storage compartment for dirty clothes or shoes
Cons
- Large size makes it difficult to store when not in use,
- Difficult to roll without tipping over
3. Wrangler 30 inch Multi-Pocket Rolling Travel Duffel Bag
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| Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Material: nylon, polyester Wheels: Yes Water Resistant: no Waterproof: no Converts to a Backpack: no |
The Wrangler Multi-Pocket Rolling Travel duffel bag is great for those wanting numerous pockets, giving ample room to store your belongings. This large-sized duffel is great for brief getaways, and is also light enough to be used for checked luggage. Made from nylon, this bag is both resilient and a breeze to clean. It has a retractable pull handle and padded handles on the top and side for easy lifting. However, its blade wheels tend to be a bit unstable, causing the bag to wobble when pulled. We recommend using the wheels only in flat areas to avoid the bag from tipping over.
Pros
- Several large pockets for storage
- Telescopic handle for easy pulling
- In-line blade wheels
- Nice size for check-in luggage
- Solid base support
Cons
- Some reviewers state the seams are weak
- May wobble when pulling on the wheels
4. Redcamp Foldable Duffle Bag
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| Price: 💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Capacity: 120 liters Size: 29.5 x 15.7 x 15.7 inches (74.9 x 39.9 x 39.9 cm) Material: 1680D Oxford, 210D Polyester Wheels: Yes Water Resistant: yes Waterproof: no Converts to a Backpack: no |
If you are planning a one week vacation somewhere, this will be the best travel duffel bag for you. Redcamp rolling duffel bags have a much smaller capacity than the Eagle Creek, at 85L for the large and 120L for the extra-large model. It also features one main compartment without any side pockets or extra pouches. On the upside, the smaller size of the duffel bag makes it a bit more stable, so it does tip over on its weight when dragging it through the airport. On the downside, it lacks a side pocket and a shoulder strap, but it features a line of webbing around its circumference to hold water bottles and other small items.
Another great feature is the heavy-duty 1680D Oxford fabric that has excellent tear resistance with outstanding waterproof performance. It is easy to carry with the top and side handles or dragging on its heavy-duty rubber wheels.
Pros
- Wide u-shape top opening for easy access,
- High-density waterproof and tear-resistant fabric, Folds into a compact carry pouch for easy storage,
- Has the best value for money,
- Outstanding quality and construction,
- Easy to fold up and store
Cons
- No side pockets and shoulder strap
5. Duane Rolling Duffel Bag
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| Price: 💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Capacity: 45.5 liters Weight: 6 pounds (2.72 kg) Size: 21 x 11.6 x 11.4 inches (53.3 x 29.5 x 29 cm) Material: 600D Polyester Wheels: Yes Water Resistant: Yes Waterproof: No Converts to a Backpack: No |
The Duane Travel Duffel Bag is a carry-on-sized rolling duffel that features a generous 45L capacity with multiple pockets for organization. It allows you more packing space for a couple of days worth of clothes without having to check in the bag. Also notable is that it is lighter at six pounds compared to other carry-on duffel bags of the same size.
It comes with a full-size U-shaped flap opening with dual zippers to access the main compartment that features a zippered pocket to keep intimate garments and open pouches for toiletries. It has two roomy external pockets on the front side and a large one at the back for magazines to read while traveling. The flap and the side of the bag have narrow pockets for small documents like your passport. However, we do note that it does not have a dedicated space for shoes, such as a large side pocket, and you may have to pack them in the main compartment with your clothes. The Duane duffel bag features a lightweight 600D Polyester construction that offers better color retention and water resistance than Nylon. It also features a side grab handle, top handles with a padded and removable shoulder strap for easy carrying options, and a telescoping handle to roll the bag conveniently. The bag features in-line skate wheels, which are typically more robust than spinner wheels and allow you to drag your duffel bag across uneven surfaces. However, you can only pull your travel bag from behind, which may be an inconvenience if you are going through a busy airport or station. Another drawback that is common with in-line skate wheels is that they make the duffel bag unstable, and it keeps tipping over on the side while you roll it. But, we find that it happens less frequently with the Duane duffel bag, probably because it is so compact and the weight is better distributed.
Pros
- Generous main compartment with multiple pockets,
- Multiple handles for convenient carry options,
- Robust and water-resistant construction with 600D Polyester,
- Convenient carry-on size for international trips,
- In-line skate wheels to take the weight off your shoulders
Cons
- In-line skate wheels may be unstable,
- No dedicated shoes compartment
6. Gonex Rolling Duffle Bag with Wheels
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| Price: 💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Capacity: 70 liters Size: 25.6 x 16 x 9 inches (65 x 40.6 x 22.9 cm) Material: PVC Wheels: Yes Water Resistant: yes Waterproof: yes Converts to a Backpack: no |
Gonex duffel bag features a flat roller board back that gives it structure and stability for the rolling action and makes it one of the best duffel bags with wheels on my list. On the downside, the roller board adds on to the 8.56lbs of weight to the bag. The rigid back is also useful as a housing for the telescopic handle and the heavy-duty trolley wheels. The 70L model features a foldable bottom design, which allows you to fold the bag flat for storage.
It features multiple pockets to keep your stuff tidy and easily accessible, while compression straps come in handy to keep your luggage compact. The main compartment opens up and packs like a suitcase, and it also features inner pockets to separate your clothes. The duffel bag has a high-quality water-repellent PVC fabric construction that gives it durability and an attractive finish with three colors for choice. This 70L model might be too big for a carry-on when full, but it will carry a couple of days worth of clothes and accessories.
Pros
- Multiple pockets design to keep your luggage organized,
- Rigid roller board backing to give the duffel bag structure,
- Foldable bottom design for easy storage,
- Heavy duty and quiet trolley wheels,
- Tough and waterproof PVC fabric construction,
- Convenient telescopic handle,
- Visible ID slot on the side for easy identification,
- The base handle keeps it in an upright position
Cons
- It is heavy,
- Comes with a strong chemical odor
7. Fila 22 inch Lightweight Carry On Rolling Duffel Bag
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| Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Size: 22 x 17 x 12 inches (55.9 x 43.2 x 30.5 cm) Material: Polyester Wheels: Yes Water Resistant: no Waterproof: no Converts to a Backpack: no |
Fila 22-inch lightweight rolling duffel bag gives you a ton of space for all your essentials, and its lightweight design makes it a great carry-on bag for air travel. The side pockets are spacious for your headphones, lightweight drone and other small electronics and books. It also features a bungee cord that you can use to hold your jacket or shawl. The back and the base are rigid and will not collapse when the bag is full of heavy stuff. But, it gets unstable when packed up, which makes it wobble when rolling it.
Pros
- Lightweight to allow you to pack more luggage,
- Four side pockets for packing smaller items,
- Bungee cord for holding your hoodie or jacket,
- Lightweight design to pack extra clothes,
- Good size as carry-on luggage,
- Excellent quality for the price
Cons
- Unstable with a narrow wheelbase,
- The telescopic handle also doesn’t lock in place
- Filmsy zipper
8. Samsonite Andante 2 Duffel Bag with Wheels
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| Price: 💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Material: polyester Wheels: Yes Water Resistant: yes Waterproof: no Converts to a Backpack: no |
The Samsonite Andante 2 is similar to its predecessor but with additions like the front U-zip for greater convenience. This zip gives it a large opening to put your belongings in without trying to squeeze them inside. The Andante 2 is extremely functional with a durable build, and we love that it comes in several different attractive colors.
This wheeled backpack is crafted from water-resistant 840-denier polyester and has fluid wheels. It also has a lockable, retractable pull handle for improved mobility. Though, a few reviewers have mentioned potential durability concerns with the material and handles. On the plus side, the duffel is equipped with corner protectors and bumper runners at its base to minimize wear and tear.
Pros
- Includes a drop bottom compartment
- Attractive design with several color choices
- Water-resistant build
- Has a locking handle and smooth wheels for safety and convenience
- Very spacious inside for larger items
Cons
- Construction not durable
- Handles may rip apart easily
Verdict
To summarize, we have gone through dozens of rolling duffel bags and decided that 8 are worth your consideration. Out of these, the absolute Best Rolling Duffel Bag is Olympia 8 Pocket Rolling Duffel Bag which we highly recommend as our overall best.
If money is not an issue, you can consider Eagle Creek No Matter What Wheeled Duffel Bag as this is our Premium Pick.
Otherwise, there’s no shame in spending prudently, Wrangler 30 inch Multi-Pocket Rolling Travel Duffel Bag is the Budget Option.
Our other reviews you may find useful in your research:
What You Should Know Before Buying rolling duffel bags
How do you pack a rolling duffel bag for international travel
Duffel bags allow you to pack more stuff for your trip while at the same time cut down on baggage weight. Packing a duffel bag for international travel is super easy with these simple tips. Start with the heavy and low priority items at the bottom. These items, for example, shoes, help to balance your duffel bag when rolling it.
Roll your clothes and line them up in rows. Rolling helps to reduce wrinkling and keeps your luggage compact and organized. As you near the top of the bag, you can begin to stuff small items like wool socks and underwear into the empty spaces on the sides of the bag. Shake up the bag to reveal more space for packing, and try not to overstuff your bag as it will put more strain on the zippers, the seams, and the wheels. Pack items like toiletries, medication, phone chargers, and headphones into the outer pockets of the duffel bag for quick access. When you have everything packed, secure your rolling duffel bag with a TSA approved lock that allows airport security to open the bag safely with a master key if they need to check the contents.
Why rolling duffle bag compared to a normal duffle
Rolling duffle bags come with wheels which makes them easy to lug around the airport especially if you’re carrying heavy equipment.
Questions and Answers About rolling duffel bags
Are duffle bags better than suitcases?
Duffel bags are better than suitcases when you are planning a short trip that requires light packing or a camping trip that needs a flexible bag. They are convenient as carry-on luggage because the duffel bag packs more than a backpack. On the other hand, a suitcase is more durable and secure than a duffel bag, especially if you are checking in your luggage.
How do you pack a rolling duffel bag for international travel?
Duffel bags allow you to pack more stuff for your trip while at the same time cut down on baggage weight. Packing a duffel bag for international travel is super easy with these simple tips. Start with the heavy and low priority items at the bottom. These items, for example, shoes, help to balance your duffel bag when rolling it.
Roll your clothes and line them up in rows. Rolling helps to reduce wrinkling and keeps your luggage compact and organized. As you near the top of the bag, you can begin to stuff small items like socks and underwear into the empty spaces on the sides of the bag. Shake up the bag to reveal more space for packing, and try not to overstuff your bag as it will put more strain on the zippers, the seams, and the wheels. Pack items like toiletries, medication, phone chargers, and headphones into the outer pockets of the duffel bag for quick access. When you have everything packed, secure your rolling duffel bag with a TSA approved lock that allows airport security to open the bag safely with a master key if they need to check the contents.
Can you add wheels to a duffel bag?
Yes, you can add wheels to your duffel bag if you do not want to buy a brand new wheeled duffel bag. All you would need is a metal rod that will fit through the wheels, two wheels from a hardware store, and velcro straps that you will stitch to the bottom of the duffel bag. You can check out this post on Instructables that details a simple method of adding wheels to a duffel bag.
What is a drop bottom duffel bag?
These are duffel bags that feature a top compartment that is usually the main compartment and a smaller bottom compartment. Some rolling duffel bags may have a removable divider that separates the two compartments to create one big space when the need arises. Drop bottom rolling duffel bags are convenient because they allow you to organize your luggage separately.
Which is better suitcase or carry-on duffel?
When carrying bulky or large amounts of equipment, the suitcase works better. However, the duffel bag is more comfortable to pack, more practical for traveling, and secure.
What is the best size duffel bag?
Duffel bags come in a wide range of sizes for the diverse use that they are designed for. The best size depends on what you intend to use the bag for, whether it is travel, sports, or other leisure activities. Apart from function, you will need to take into consideration features such as accessory pockets, the weight when full, and the price.
How do I choose a 36-inch duffel bag?
When choosing this type of bag, you can look at the following factors
Convenience – For hauling gear, it helps to consider if the duffel bag has multiple ways to carry it from grab handles, a shoulder strap, adjustable backpack straps, to wheels. Construction – Depending on what you plan to use it for, consider the durability of fabric (waterproof/water-resistant) used to make the bag, zippers, attachment parts, and carry straps. You do not want to end up with a bag that tears or breaks its zippers as soon as you’ve bought it. If the 36-inch pack is not your main bag for traveling and is only a just-in-case bag, consider how packable it is to carry stuff. However, if it is your travel bag, consider if it provides easy access to essential things (passport/tickets/medicine) without packing out the whole bag.
