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Whether you’re planning a quick road trip to the nearest beach or a much-needed couple’s getaway, spending a few days away calls for a sturdy, stylish, and functional travel bag. We often turn to our favorite weekenders to hold everything we need for short trips and overnight stays. The best weekender bags are roomy enough to carry your clothes, toiletries, and a pair of comfortable shoes or two but not so bulky as to slow you down while dashing to catch a flight or sting you with airline baggage fees. A separate compartment for dirty clothes or shoes is always welcome. To narrow down the styles that are worth your investment, our editors put dozens of duffels and expandable totes to the test from top luggage brands like Away, Béis, Antler, Nere, and more.
The Best Weekender Bags at a Glance
How We Choose the Best Weekender Bags:
Our editors spent months testing these weekenders, bringing them on two-day getaways, overnights, and camping trips, while also using them as personal items on flights. We considered each bag’s weight, capacity, design, and durability after several trips. Moreover, we paid close attention to unique features that make a bag stand out against other options on the market, such as ample pockets or separate shoe compartments. Below are the best weekenders of 2024, ranging from budget-friendly options to splurge-worthy designer handbags.
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Troubadour Weekender
Weight: 1.5kg
Dimensions: W48 x H33 x D23cm
Capacity: 32L
Features: Detachable shoulder strap, trolley sleeve, padded 17” laptop pocket, waterproof exterior, five-year guaranteeDiscerning travellers will be impressed with Troubadour’s selection of smart, sustainable bags. Its understated range of weekenders, backpacks, and smaller bags are made from fully recycled and recyclable materials and come with an impressive five-year guarantee. This svelte weekender is on the smaller side, so it can be used as an under-seat cabin bag on most UK airlines. Don’t let the smaller size fool you – digital deputy editor Sarah James loves this bag for its deceptive roominess, comfortably covering a full weekend’s worth of outfit changes, including shoes. There’s also a valuables pocket and a laptop slip, with the exterior pocket doubling as a trolley sleeve when unzipped.
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Stubble & Co The Weekender
Weight: 1.65kg, 1.7kg
Dimensions: W55 x H27 x D25cm, W61 x H35 x D29cm
Capacity: 40L, 60L
Features: 16” laptop compartment, trolley sleeve, outer slip pocket, padded leather shoulder pad, inner valuables pocketWe’re big fans of Stubble & Co’s weekender, which includes multiple pockets for essentials, a dedicated laptop compartment, and a well-padded strap to ease the burden while toting it around. YKK zips provide peace of mind as they won’t bust even when full, and a luggage sleeve simplifies airport navigation. Made with water-resistant canvas and finished with leather trims, this bag exudes a luxuriously sophisticated feel.
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Carl Friedrik Compact Weekender
Dimensions: W46 x H28 x D18cm
Features: Two interior pockets, wide zipped pocket; external slip pocketFrom luxury luggage brand Carl Friedrik comes this chic compact weekender. It’s on the smaller side, making it more suitable as an overnighter unless you forgo additional shoes. We prefer it as a smart under-seat cabin bag. Provided you don’t pack it too tightly, it will suit most UK airlines, and there’s ample space for all your onboard essentials, including your laptop. The significant attraction here is its sleek appearance; the leather straps and understated styling add to its sophistication.
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Ettinger New Pursuits Cotswolds Weekend Bag
Luxury British leather goods brand Ettinger has been manufacturing quality bags and accessories since 1934. Known for its classic style, the weekenders feature beautifully soft brushed cotton finishes, leather trims, and a distinctly British aesthetic. On a weekend getaway, this bag comfortably fits three outfits, a pair of shoes, and a camera. It remains sturdy even when full, with practical pockets for passports and accessories. Its chic design has earned multiple compliments from admirers.
Weight: 1kg
Dimensions: 58 x 32 x 25cm
Features: Reinforced leather detailing, Jacquard lining, detachable crossbody strap, two inner slip pockets
