Duffel Bags
Duffel bags for road trips, gear hauling and adventure travel, from classic expedition duffels to waterproof and wheeled options. Our range is led by Patagonia, The North Face, Osprey and YETI, with tough fabrics built to survive car boots, boat decks and baggage carousels.
Choose a waterproof duffel for boats, beaches and dusty roads, a wheeled duffel for airports and long transfers, and a classic duffel with backpack straps for carrying gear short distances. Organise the inside with packing cubes, and pack a daypack for walks once you arrive.
Come and size up a duffel at our Grey Lynn concept store, or order online for fast, tracked delivery across New Zealand with easy returns.
Frequently asked questions about duffel bags
What size duffel bag do I need?
Duffels are measured in litres. Around 30 to 50 litres suits a weekend away or carry-on travel, 60 to 90 litres covers a week or more, or bulky gear like wetsuits and boots, and 100 litres plus is for long expeditions, family packing or hauling lots of equipment. If you plan to carry it on your back, remember a big duffel gets heavy quickly, so do not buy more space than you need.
Are duffels with backpack straps comfortable to carry?
They are comfortable for short distances, such as from the car park to a hut, across an airport or through a town. The straps let you carry a loaded duffel hands-free and spread the weight across both shoulders. However, duffel straps have no hip belt or frame, so for long walks with heavy loads a proper backpack is far more comfortable. Stow the straps away when the bag is checked in.
What is the difference between a waterproof and a water-resistant duffel?
A water-resistant duffel uses coated fabric that sheds rain and spray but can leak through zips and seams in heavy water. A waterproof duffel uses welded seams and a waterproof zip or roll-top closure, keeping contents dry even when the bag is sitting in a wet boat or out in a downpour. For boating, kayaking and wet-weather road trips, a fully waterproof duffel is worth it.
Are wheeled duffels worth it?
If you fly often or move between airports, hotels and transport, a wheeled duffel saves your shoulders, especially with heavy loads. The trade-off is extra weight and less flexibility, as the wheels and frame add bulk and stop the bag squashing down as well. For road trips, boats and short carries, a regular duffel is lighter and more practical; for long travel days, wheels make life easier.
Can a duffel bag be used as carry-on luggage?
Smaller duffels, usually around 30 to 40 litres, often meet airline carry-on size limits, but check your airline's rules because size and weight limits vary. Soft duffels are handy as carry-on because they squeeze into overhead lockers more easily than rigid cases. Watch the weight, as it is easy to overfill a soft bag, and keep liquids and electronics where you can reach them at security.
How do I clean a duffel bag after a dusty or salty trip?
Empty the bag and shake out sand and grit, then wipe the outside with a damp cloth or rinse it with fresh water, using a soft brush and mild soap on stubborn dirt. Pay attention to zips, which clog with sand and salt; a rinse and a little zip lubricant keep them running smoothly. Dry the bag fully, open, before storing so it does not develop mould or odours.
How should I store a duffel bag between trips?
Clean and dry it thoroughly, then store it somewhere cool, dry and out of direct sunlight, which can weaken fabric and coatings over time. Many duffels fold flat or pack into their own pocket, which saves cupboard space. Avoid storing it compressed under heavy items for long periods, and keep it away from damp garages where mould can form. A quick check of zips and straps before your next trip avoids surprises.