A leather duffle bag is a versatile choice no matter what kind of traveler you are.
When it comes to stylish travel bags, a quality leather duffle bag ranks right up at the top. Large enough for a weekend getaway, yet small enough to qualify as an airplane carry-on, it’s an extremely versatile choice no matter what kind of traveler you are.
Pros: Extremely stylish; very roomy and can fit more than you think (see below, also); takes on a beautiful patina as it ages; will last for decades if the leather is high-quality and taken care of properly.
Cons: Not something you want to take out in the rain; easy to overpack and can get very heavy in the hand and on the shoulder; scratches are unavoidable.
There’s a certain stylish allure to a leather duffle bag. It’s a grown-up upgrade to a canvas one (not that a canvas duffle can’t be exceedingly stylish) and has a definite feeling of arrival (travel pun intended).
I have always been a fan of carrying exactly what I need and nothing more – hey, you’re talking to the guy who once did a style experiment bordering on performance art – which should come as no surprise since we always like to trumpet versatility on the site. So when I travel with a leather duffle bag, packing it and planning what to pack is a fun exercise.
Perfect For: Weekend getaways, air travel when you want a more stylish carry-on than a rolling one; guys who like to pack only what they need.