Who doesn’t love travelling? Visiting new places, having fun, meeting new people, and getting to know the world around you are all part of the excitement. However, travelling can quickly become stressful if you don’t have the right bag to take with you. Your travel bag should be spacious enough to accommodate your needs, durable enough to withstand wear and tear, and stylish enough to keep you looking put-together wherever you go. The perfect women’s travel bag should offer all this and more.
Types of Travel Bags
Totes
For quick weekend getaways or a weeklong summer break, tote bags are one of the most popular choices. These bags are easily recognisable by their two parallel handles on each side. You can find a wide variety of chic travel bags for women that come in the tote shape.
While tote bags typically lack many external pockets, they often make up for it with ample internal compartments, some with zippers. This design helps you stay organised, whether you’re storing clothes, wallets, electronics, passports, or other essentials. Plus, tote bags come in various sizes, giving you plenty of options.
Duffel Bags
Duffel bags are highly recognisable and have a distinctive look. Originally made for military use, they have become popular for their practicality and versatility. The basic design is cylindrical, with canvas as the primary material, though shapes and materials can vary by manufacturer.
A defining feature of duffel bags is the drawstring closure at the top, which secures your belongings and prevents spills. These bags are breathable, lightweight, and durable—everything you need in a travel bag. Many duffel bags also come with a long, over-the-shoulder strap for easy carrying.
Some duffel bags are designed with a rigid bottom and come equipped with wheels. They often have multiple compartments inside, with some models extending to provide more storage space. Exterior and interior pockets with zippers, Velcro, or buckles help keep everything organised and in its place.
Weekend Bags
Weekend bags, as the name suggests, are perfect for weekend travel. They offer just enough space to fit everything you need for a short trip, making them an ideal carry-on option. These bags are usually made of nylon or cotton, making them lightweight and durable. Leather versions are becoming increasingly popular, adding a touch of sophistication to your travel gear.
Rolling Luggage
If you’re navigating airports, hopping on trains, or catching buses, rolling luggage is an excellent choice. These bags are convenient and easy to handle, made from strong materials that can withstand bumps, scratches, and rough handling. Available in various shapes and sizes, the wheels are the standout feature for women, as they make it easy to carry the bag without straining your shoulders, neck, or back.
What to Consider When Buying
Size
Women often travel with more items than men, including clothes, makeup, cosmetics, hats, shoes, accessories, electronics, and more. There’s always a need for more pockets and storage space.
When choosing from a wide variety of travel bags for women, consider the size and capacity of the bag. Avoid buying something too small just because you love the design. Consider the season, the length of your trip, and whether you need different clothing options. Answering these questions can help you determine the right size.
Shorter trips can usually be managed with smaller bags, but if you’re travelling for a week or more, opt for a larger bag. To make things easier, prepare the clothes you plan to pack in advance and estimate how much space you’ll need. This will give you a rough idea of the bag’s required size and capacity.
Material & Durability
The material of the bag plays a crucial role in its longevity and durability. Polyester and nylon are the most common materials for women’s travel bags. Both are durable, strong, and capable of withstanding significant wear and tear.
Leather is another popular option, offering a refined and timeless look that many women love. Besides its aesthetic appeal, leather is also durable. However, it requires proper care and maintenance to prevent drying and cracking.
Canvas is another material option, mainly used for duffel bags but also found in some totes. While canvas can be stylish, it may not withstand harsh weather conditions well and is not ideal for damp or rainy climates. So, consider the weather of your destination when choosing a bag.
