Best Foldable Travel Bags: Compact, Convenient, Spacious

When packing for a trip, it's always a good idea to leave some extra space for souvenirs and mementoes. But what happens when you've gone overboard and need an extra bag to carry your new treasures? Enter: the foldable travel bag. These handy, compact bags can be easily stored in your luggage and used as a day bag, shopping tote, or even an extra piece of luggage for your return journey.

- Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack: This budget-friendly backpack weighs only 5.3 ounces and is extremely lightweight and pliable. While it might not be suitable for heavy loads, it's perfect for day trips, hikes, or carrying essentials like jackets, sunscreen, and water bottles.

- Away The Packable Carryall: This water-resistant 43-liter tote is great for beach excursions or as a backup personal item. It's made from thin nylon and can be folded to about the size of a photograph, making it easy to store in your purse or car.

- Tumi Voyageur Just in Case Duffel: This duffel bag offers four different carrying options and is both water- and stain-resistant. It has a lightweight, compact shape that packs down nicely and provides ample room for clothes, shoes, and toiletries.

- Lipault Foldable Plume Cabin: This foldable carry-on can be packed inside a checked suitcase, making it perfect for those who need extra space for souvenirs. It has two wheels for easy maneuverability and is made from durable, softside coated fabric.

- Paravel Fold-Up Belt Bag: This compact and sturdy bag is perfect for travel as it's lightweight and hands-free, allowing you to keep your essentials close. It's made from recycled nylon and can be customized with embroidery.

- HEXIN Packable & Collapsible Lightweight Foldable Large Travel Duffel: This durable and lightweight duffel bag is great for those who need extra space for purchases made during their trip. It has an 85-liter capacity and a shoe storage compartment, and its ripstop nylon fabric protects against water and tearing.

- The North Face Flyweight Duffel: This highly compressible duffel is part of The North Face's Flyweight Collection, featuring 30% lighter fabric. It has removable shoulder straps, top grab handles, and an external zippered pocket. It's perfect for light packers who need a compact and functional bag.

- Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler Duffel: This 60-liter foldable travel bag packs into its front-end zippered compartment for easy storage. It comes in multiple sizes, has removable backpack straps and padded top handles, and a U-shaped lid for easy access to the main compartment.

- Cotopaxi Uyuni Travel Duffel Bag: The Cotopaxi Uyuni is a versatile backpack-duffel hybrid with backpack straps that snap under a flap, so they don't get in the way when using the shoulder strap. It lies completely flat and takes up minimal space, making it easy to stow under a bed or in luggage.

- Patagonia Black Hole Duffel Bag: This backpack-duffel hybrid is durable and made from polyester ripstop material with a water-repellent finish. It completely folds into itself, making it convenient for storage and travel.

- Biaggi ZipSak Spinner: This 22-inch spinner from Biaggi's ZipSak line folds up into a package the size of a packing cube, making it extremely compact and easy to store. It's also super lightweight and has four multi-directional spinner wheels.

- Eagle Creek No Matter What Rolling Duffel: This rolling duffel from Eagle Creek folds into its own stuff pouch, wheels included! It comes in large and extra-large sizes and features sturdy, oversized wheels, reinforced webbing, and compression straps.

- Biaggi Lift-Off! Expandable Underseater to Carry-On: This 2-in-1 bag starts as an underseater and can be expanded into a full-on carry-on bag. It has a unique design that allows you to separate dirty shoes from clean clothes by unzipping the top lid and pulling up the fabric to reveal a new compartment.

- Lipault 0% Pliable Collection Foldable Upright 55/20: This soft-sided and lightweight spinner is one of the best-quality collapsible bags on the market. It folds up into its own case and allows you to pack a lot without incurring excess baggage fees.

- Baggu Travel Cloud Bag: This durable weekender-size bag from Baggu folds up into a detachable pouch the size of an iPad, making it a great space-saving option. It comes in fun colors like chartreuse and cranberry, and its amorphous body allows it to fit into carry-on bins even when stuffed to the brim.

- Paravel Fold-Up Bag: This practical duffel bag has interior zip pockets, openings to slide over your carry-on handle, and retro striped straps. It zips neatly into itself, creating a compact, book-sized pouch, and comes in classic colors like blue, black, and olive.

- Longchamp Le Pliage Tote Bag: The Longchamp Le Pliage is the original collapsible bag, having been around since the '90s. It's roomier than most carry-on totes and versatile enough to use as an everyday bag, making it a great addition to your luggage collection.

- LeSportsac Classic Weekender Bag: This super lightweight weekender bag is made of ripstop nylon and is durable enough to hold all your new purchases. While it's not designed to be folded up, it's easy to flatten and fold, so you can still stash it in your suitcase.

- Paravel Stowaway Bag: This retro suitcase meets TSA carry-on requirements and can be personalized with your initials. It folds up like a clutch, and its lean body design means you won't have any wheels or handles cutting into precious cargo room inside.

- Herschel Packable Duffle: This collapsible duffel comes in 28 different

Best Foldable Backpack

When choosing a foldable backpack, it's important to consider your needs. If you prioritise comfort, opt for a backpack with back padding and comfortable straps, even if it's a little heavier. If you're looking for something that will take up minimal space, go for an ultralight option, but be prepared for minor discomfort as these often sacrifice carry comfort to save weight.

Tortuga Packable Backpack

The Tortuga Packable Backpack is a more structured option, but it's still incredibly lightweight and packs down small enough for easy transportation. It features quality hardware, including YKK zippers and Woojin buckles, and has a back panel, which isn't standard on all packable bags. It also has padding and mesh to keep you comfortable and cool, as well as a sternum strap. The stretchy water bottle pockets are handy for staying hydrated and storing extra gear.

Matador ReFraction Packable Backpack

The Matador ReFraction Packable Backpack performs well across the board. It has a solid gram-per-liter rating with a 16-liter capacity, is relatively easy to pack up, and isn't very floppy, thanks to its slightly thicker, durable materials. It doesn't have a structured back panel, so you'll need to pack your gear creatively to ensure it stays comfortable to wear. It features multiple pockets for organisation, and the luggage pass-through is handy for trips through the airport with rolling luggage.

FORCLAZ Foldable Backpack 10L

The FORCLAZ Foldable Backpack is one of the cheapest options available, often retailing for under $20. It's incredibly lightweight and easy to pack up, making it a great choice if you're looking for something compact and affordable. However, it lacks extra features like pockets or padding.

Osprey Remnants Packable Daypack

The Osprey Remnants Packable Daypack performs well across the board and will match any other Osprey gear you may already own. It's easy to use and looks more like a standard daypack than many other packable options. It features two compartments and two water bottle pockets to keep you organised and hydrated.

Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Day Pack

The Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Day Pack is incredibly lightweight and one of the smallest packed bags available, fitting into the palm of your hand. However, it's challenging to pack up and one of the floppiest bags on the market, with almost no features to enhance its comfort or usability.

NOMATIC Navigator Collapsible Pack 16L

The NOMATIC Navigator Collapsible Pack 16L is a unique option with the most defined back panel on this list, adding comfort. The back panel folds in the middle, which is what the bag packs into, and it has a zipper running around the outside. It's one of the largest when packed down, but if you have room in your pack, this won't be an issue. The structured back panel makes the bag less floppy, and the shoulder straps are constructed from mesh to aid breathability.

Away Packable Backpack

The Away Packable Backpack is one of the smaller packed bags available and does moderately well on the grams-per-liter scale. It's somewhat floppy, but not overly so, and it's comfortable, even without a proper back panel. The exterior looks unique, but it lacks external pockets for quick-access gear, and the main compartment's elastic closure isn't the easiest to use.

WaterField Designs Packable Backpack

The WaterField Designs Packable Backpack has a unique, sleek look with more structured materials than most packable bags. It has a few compartments to keep you organised and includes two side pockets, which are handy for small water bottles or snacks. However, it doesn't perform well on the grams-per-liter test due to its thicker materials, and the water bottle pockets don't work for larger bottles.

Mystery Ranch In and Out Packable Daypack

The Mystery Ranch In and Out Packable Daypack has a lot of features, including various attachment loops on the exterior, a comfortable harness system, and a stretchy water bottle pocket. These features come at the cost of packability and weight, as it's one of the heaviest and poorest-performing packs on the grams-per-liter scale. It's also challenging to pack up, especially the first few times.

Best Duffel Bag

When it comes to choosing the best duffel bag for your travels, there are a few key factors to consider. Firstly, think about the purpose of your trip and the items you'll need to pack. If you're planning a weekend getaway, a smaller duffel bag with a capacity of around 40 liters should suffice. On the other hand, if you're embarking on a longer journey and require more packing space, consider opting for a bag with a capacity of 60 liters or more.

The next aspect to deliberate is the bag's material. Nylon and polyester are popular choices due to their durability and water-resistance. Additionally, look for features such as multiple compartments, padded straps, and wheels for easier transportation.

Tumi Voyageur Just in Case Duffel

This duffel bag stands out for its versatility in carrying options. It can be worn as a crossbody bag, carried over the shoulder, by hand, or attached to your suitcase handle for hands-free convenience. The lightweight and durable nylon bag is water and stain-resistant, making it ideal for various travel scenarios. It also features an innovative storage pouch that snaps inside the duffel, providing extra interior storage space.

Cotopaxi Uyuni Travel Duffel Bag

The Cotopaxi Uyuni is a versatile backpack-duffel hybrid. Its backpack straps can be neatly snapped under a flap when not in use, allowing you to easily switch between carrying styles. This bag lies completely flat when empty, making it effortless to store under a bed or in luggage. With a 46-liter capacity, it's an excellent choice for carry-on luggage.

HEXIN Packable & Collapsible Lightweight Foldable Large Travel Duffel

The HEXIN duffel bag is a durable and lightweight option, perfect for those who need extra packing space during their travels. It boasts an impressive 85-liter capacity and a shoe storage compartment. The ripstop nylon fabric is water-resistant and tear-proof, ensuring your belongings stay protected.

WaterField Packable Duffel

The WaterField Packable Duffel is a lightweight and water-resistant option that conveniently folds into its own pocket. It features a luggage handle strap, making it ideal for pairing with a suitcase. The bag is crafted from a custom-made technical material that combines Taslan and tricot mesh, resulting in a structured yet packable design.

Samsonite Foldaway Packable Duffel Bag

The Samsonite Foldaway duffel bag is a reliable choice for those seeking a well-known brand. It is made from durable polyester and features multiple compartments for easy organization. This bag is an excellent option for those who want a compact and lightweight bag that can be easily folded and stored when not in use.

Best Tote Bag

Tote bags are a great option for travel, especially if you're looking for something that can fold up small. They're simple in design, usually consisting of a large bag with two long handles that can be carried on one shoulder. This makes them a popular option for those who want to carry a lot of gear without dealing with different compartments, lack of space, and fancy buckles and straps.

Baggu Standard Baggu Tote

The Baggu Standard Baggu Tote is a lightweight and thin tote bag that can easily be slipped between packing cubes or tight security pockets. It's made of ripstop nylon, which helps prevent small rips from deteriorating, but it's important to handle this bag gently as even minor rips can occur easily. This tote bag sits parallel to your torso instead of perpendicular, so it can be slung over your shoulder or carried like a shopping bag. It doesn't have much structure and can't stand on its own, but its simplicity makes it a good option for a reusable shopping bag.

Bellroy Market Tote

The Bellroy Market Tote is a lightweight tote bag with internal organisation to keep items protected. It has three wine bottle-sized pockets and is easy to clean. It also has a gusseted floor, which allows the tote to stand fairly well when it's sufficiently packed. The pocket layout is a bit one-sided, so it's important to pack strategically to avoid weight imbalance. The handles are relatively thin and lack cushioning, so it's not ideal for carrying heavy items.

Longchamp Le Pliage Expandable Travel Bag

The Longchamp Le Pliage Expandable Travel Bag is a versatile, two-in-one bag that can be carried multiple ways. It can function as a handheld purse or a crossbody bag, and it can be expanded from 14 inches to 20.5 inches in height, providing an extra 20 litres of packing space. It lacks interior pockets, but this can be solved with packing cubes. The nylon material is easy to wipe clean, and the leather trimming is expertly crafted.

Away The Packable Carryall

The Away The Packable Carryall is a water-resistant, 43-litre tote bag that's great for beach or pool excursions. It can hold clothes, towels, books, and even a laptop comfortably thanks to its thick carrying straps. The bag doesn't have much structure and can't stand on its own, but it folds down to about the size of a photograph and weighs only half a pound, making it easy to keep as a backup in your purse or car.

Patagonia Black Hole Duffel Bag

The Patagonia Black Hole Duffel Bag is a backpack-duffel hybrid that can completely fold into itself. The polyester ripstop material is durable and water-resistant, making it ideal for outdoor use.

Best Budget Option

If you're looking for a budget-friendly foldable travel bag, there are several great options to choose from. One highly recommended bag is the Baggu Nylon Ripstop Tote, which costs only $36 and can be found on Amazon. This durable tote is a favourite among travellers for its functionality and compact size—it folds down to the size of your hand. Although it gets quite wrinkled when folded, it's the perfect just-in-case shopping tote to keep in your suitcase, car, or purse.

Another excellent budget option is the Paravel Fold-Up Bag, which costs $65 and can be purchased on the Paravel website. This stylish duffel bag has a super-lightweight design and can be easily folded into a compact, book-sized pouch. It also features interior zip pockets and openings to slide over your carry-on handle.

For an even more affordable option, consider the IKEA Räckla bag, which is foldable, black, and costs only $9.99. One user on Reddit says, "I also have [the Räckla bag] stashed in my carry-on at all times as an emergency, it takes no space and packs so much." However, they note that the bag is a bit delicate and can rip easily.

If you're looking for a foldable backpack on a budget, check out the Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack for $45 on Amazon. Weighing only 5.3 ounces, this backpack is extremely lightweight and pliable, making it perfect for daytime adventures like hikes. While it lacks padding and has limited pockets, it's a great option for carrying essentials like a jacket, sunscreen, bug spray, a wallet, and a small water bottle.

Best for Suit Storage

If you're looking for a foldable bag to store your suits, there are several options to consider. Firstly, the Bennett Winch Trifold bag is an excellent choice for those seeking a water-resistant option to prevent creases in suits. It features a nifty three-magnet design and comes with a strap for easy attachment to a roller bag's handle. Another option is the Longchamp Canvas & Leather Travel Bag, which is durable and can accommodate a laptop, notebook, lunch, and gym gear. For a more affordable option, Away offers a garment bag that can store two to three items and features a leather handle for added comfort. Finally, the Halfday Travel Premium Garment Duffel 45L offers both a garment bag for suits and a regular tote for additional clothing, making it a versatile choice. These options provide functionality and convenience for storing and transporting suits during travel.

Frequently asked questions