Find the right travel bag for you

Check out the most important tips and tricks here

and find out which travel bag is right for you!

For some destinations, a suitcase simply won't get you very far – for example, if the floor isn't suitable for rolling, or if you have to climb a lot of stairs or something similar. In this case, the suitcase's bulky dimensions are more of a hindrance than practical. When not in use, travel bags are also much more flexible, allowing you to store them in a much more compact space than suitcases. To ensure you can use your travel bag for as many occasions as possible, it's important to consider in advance what exactly you need. With this brief travel bag buying guide, we'd like to give you a few suggestions.

The right size: how much do you want to take with you?

First and foremost, of course, is the question of the size of the travel bag. More compact models, such as weekender bags, are perfect for short three- to four-day trips. Smaller travel bags are particularly versatile. You can also use them as a sports bag or simply as a cool shoulder bag for everyday use. If you want to use your new travel bag for a wide range of purposes, a smaller or medium-sized model is definitely the right choice.

Travel bags are available in many variations: from compact weekenders to XXL travel bags for a week-long tour

If you take more luggage with you, you will of course also need a Large travel bag . XL travel bags are ideal for transporting things like sports equipment or other items that aren't suitable for a traditional suitcase. Whether you're traveling by car or plane, you can safely stow a lot of luggage with extra-large travel bags. Due to their larger volume, the question of how to carry them is always a concern, especially with XXL travel bags. Always make sure that the travel bag has a shoulder strap, preferably an adjustable one. A cool idea for using large travel bags in everyday life: take it with you to the seaside as a beach bag! This way, you can even easily carry inflatable pillows.

The right material – is leather the best choice?

Not just a question of style: Leather travel bags not only look particularly chic, but are also exceptionally durable and robust. Of course, not all leather is created equal. The different qualities differ not only in appearance but also significantly in weight, for example. Fundamentally, it's important for a leather travel bag that the material has a certain basic rigidity and strength so that it can withstand even heavy loads.

Models made from Vintage leather – This naturally has a beautiful patina that develops with use. Travel bags made of vintage leather are particularly robust, so such a model can truly become your lifelong companion. However, they do have one small drawback: precisely because of the excellent quality of the leather, these types of travel bags weigh a bit more than other models.

Travel bags made of smooth leather , such as premium cowhide nappa, are also durable yet somewhat lighter than vintage leather models. If you're looking for more color or classic black instead of a cool vintage design, these are definitely the right choice. The understated leather look allows for a particularly wide variety of models. You can easily combine a travel bag made of smooth leather with both a business outfit and everyday wear.

By the way, leather travel bags don't require as much care as some might fear. Vintage leather can be greased with leather grease or leather balm when necessary. Smooth leather models can occasionally be refreshed with leather care milk or cream. If you'd like to learn more about this, we recommend our guide to Leather care .

Anyone looking for an alternative to the classic Leather travel bag you can try the models from Canvas. Canvas travel bags are lighter, yet still very sturdy thanks to the reinforcement with leather straps and belts. Thanks to the easy-care material, these models can also be used as stand-up bags or sports bags.

It’s the details that matter – the right equipment for your travel bag

Here, too, it's crucial to consider which individual criteria are most important. Are you more of a "rummaging" type, or do you prefer having a separate compartment for everything? Regardless, there are a few features that add that extra dose of convenience to any travel bag. A well-designed travel bag should include the following:

• A reinforced and well-padded shoulder strap:

A reinforced shoulder strap is perfect for carrying your bag for longer periods. If your travel bag does end up on the baggage carousel at the airport, for example, this can be a hindrance. Travel bag models with removable shoulder straps give you more flexibility.

• Particularly robust and stable carrying handles:

Don't underestimate the importance of shorter handles! You may not use them for as long at a time, but you'll use them much more frequently than the shoulder strap. Therefore, when purchasing, pay particular attention to ensuring that the carrying handles are well-reinforced and of high quality. A typical weak point is the attachment of the straps to the duffel bag itself. This is where both the seams and the main material of the duffel bag are under particular stress, so reinforcement should be provided here as well.

• At least one zippered compartment:

You can keep your most important items like your passport, plane ticket, cell phone, and wallet handy inside. The zipper offers sufficient security, yet can still be opened quickly and easily. Even though models with buckles, magnets, or click closures look great or are particularly easy to use, in practical tests, the good old zipper always comes out on top. The motto here is: keep it simple!

Whether your travel bag should have numerous individual compartments or a simpler layout is entirely up to you. Find out what suits you best with our comparison video. Here you'll find a brief overview of different models and recommendations for their appropriate use.

Finally, here is a short guide with refreshing ideas on how you can use your travel bag in everyday life.

The travel bag – not just suitable for traveling!

How you could use even smaller travel bags in everyday life:

• As Sports bag: simply store your sports clothes and accessories, and pack your sports shoes separately in the side compartment.

• As Work bag : a medium-sized model is perfect for storing everything you need for everyday work – work clothes, lunch and something to drink, as well as any other equipment.

• As a diaper bag: why not? If you're tired of boring diaper bags, simply take a smaller travel bag and convert it. You're guaranteed storage space and enough compartments for a change of clothes and all your diaper changing supplies!

How you can use larger travel bags in everyday life:

• As a beach bag: Oh yes! No more repeatedly inflating those inflatable beach toys! Simply pack it in the large travel bag along with all your other towels and beach gear—simply ingenious!

• As a shopping bag: admittedly, only for true shopping queens :-). If you don't feel like lugging around ten or more shopping bags, you can casually pack your shopping haul in this cool travel bag.

• As a storage space at home: If you're short on space, a travel bag can be a great way to store toys or other items. Whether you hide it under the bed or display it as a decorative home accessory is a matter of taste.