When it comes to travel, having the right luggage and bags are key to maintaining your sanity.  You can pack more, worry less, and look really great as you glide off on your next adventure!

But, with so many options out there it’s hard to know which can withstand the rigors of the road.  To help, I’ve compiled a shortlist of the best travel bags that I’ve used throughout the years.  Of the many, many I’ve tried, these are the ones that really wowed.

Best Travel Bags

When it comes to choosing the best travel bags for you, you need to think about a few key factors before making a purchase.

Size/Weight:  

Yes, size does matter.  This is especially true for travel by plane or train.  When flying, you can avoid costly fees (not to mention frustration) by using a carry-on bag rather than something that resembles a refrigerator box.  And, when traveling by train it’s important to have something agile enough to carry on and off with ease.

Expert Tip – to fit more in less space, use packing cubes and compression bags!

Style:

With so many travel bags and luggage to choose from, why not pick something with a little style!  Are you more of a vintage chic jetsetter?  Or a backpacking connoisseur?  Do you like something simple or with a bit of flair?  No matter what your fashion leanings are, there’s guaranteed to be a piece of luggage you’ll love!

Function:

Finally, how do you need your travel bags to function?  If you’re walking long distances through airports and pavement, then something with wheels would be nice.  If you’re hopping on and off trains and need versatility on the go, then a backpack may be best.  Do you plan to travel with technology?  Valuables?  For an extended stay or just a short weekend getaway?  All of this is important to consider when you choose a new travel bag.

Best Carry-On Suitcase

Rimowa 20″ Spinner Suitcase – $$$$

I’ve used my Rimowa 20″ carry-on suitcase for years and I’m still obsessed with its sleek style and durable German design.  The zipperless construction means I never have to worry about my belongings being stolen.  And, compression dividers allow me to fit a lot into a little space.

It’s the Cadillac of carry-ons and glides with ease as I make my way through the terminal.  Plus, it’s a showstopper that earns compliments left and right from fellow travelers.  Form and functionality never looked so sexy!

Features:

» Anti-theft, water-resistant zipperless construction
» 4 wheels for ease of movement in any direction
» Height-adjustable flex-divider compression system
» Durable and lightweight aluminium magnesium shell
» Telescopic handle for customizable height

Best Weekender

Lo & Sons Catalina Deluxe – $$

I love my Lo & Sons Cataline Deluxe for shorter weekend trips or when I simply want to pack light.  There’s plenty of space to fit all my necessities and the separate compartment for shoes is great!  Plus, it comes in lots of different colors so you’re sure to find one to express your individual style.

Features:

» Removable messenger strap with memory foam padding
» Bottom compartment for shoes or dirty clothes
» Spacious interior with zipper and slip pockets
» Luggage sleeve to easily attach to a suitcase
» Front zipper pocket

Best Travel Backpack

Nomatic 40L Travel Bag – $$$

When it comes to thoughtful features, the Nomatic 40L Travel Bag is in a class by itself!  With everything you need for life on the move, this hybrid backpack duffle is a clear winner when it comes to versatility.  And, with so much space, it’s well suited for a week away.

Features:

» TSA approved international carry-on size
» Over 20 innovative features, including easy-access tech storage
» RFID protection for sensitive data on credit cards and passports
» Waterproof and durable design
» Separate shoe compartment

Best “Personal” Sized Item

Vera Bradley Go Anywhere Carryall – $

My Vera Bradley Go Anywhere Carryall has been my constant companion for trips all over the globe.  When I’m on an airplane, I love that it easily slides under the seat in front of me (so you can get away with it as your “personal item”).  And, it’s roomy interior is great for overflow from my suitcase and all my tech gear.  Plus, it comes in lots of fun colors and designs that are sure to turn heads!

Features:

» Lightweight, durable fabric that’s water-resistant and wipes clean
» Multiple zipper and slip pockets for easy organization
» Luggage sleeve which can also be zipped for an additional pocket
» Shoe bag to separate dirty footwear
» A laptop sleeve to keep your tech safe

Best Travel Purse

Lo & Sons Waverley 2 – $$

The fanny pack is back, my friends!  And, this fashionable leather hybrid allows you to look chic while offering easy access to all your essentials. It comes with either gold or silver hardware and in multiple colors (I, personally, have it in Light Grey and Sienna).  And, because a girl loves her options, it can also be worn as a crossbody, shoulder bag, or wristlet.  How’s that for choices!

Features:

» Can be worn 4 different ways (crossbody, shoulder, wristlet, or belt bag)
» Interior slip pocket for extra organization
» Interior zipper pocket with 3 card slots
» Exterior card slot for license or metro card
» Available in Nappa and Saffiano leather

Best Photography Bags

Similar to luggage and travel bags, there are a few key things to consider when finding the right photography bag for you.

Size/Weight: 

The size and weight of your camera bag are important because the bag will get a lot heavier when it’s packed with your camera body, lenses, and accessories.  So, consider how much you want to bring with you and how long you’ll be away.

Will you need multiple lenses, a tripod, and lots of accessories for a full day shoot?  In that case, a larger camera bag would be appropriate.  However, if you just need to pack one or two extra lenses and a few small accessories like a spare battery and memory cards, then you can easily get away with something smaller.

Also, bear in mind that leathers will be a bit heavier than fabrics.  So, if you’re especially sensitive to weight, then a cloth bag may be more practical.

Style:

Camera bags have come into their own in recent years, and that means more aesthetically pleasing options.  From chic to vintage to simplistic to masculine, there’s something to flatter every sense of style.

Function:

Finally, it’s important to consider how you want your camera bag to function.  Think about what you need the bag to hold, if additional pockets for organization are important, and how you’d like to access your gear.  Plus, it’s also important to consider how you’d like to carry your bag (on your back, shoulder, crossbody, etc).

Best Stylish Camera Bag

Lo & Sons Claremont – $$$

When I need to look a little dressier, I love using my Lo & Sons Claremont camera bag.  Its simple, stylish design resembles a purse and looks great when paired with a dress and cute sandals.

Features:

» Internal padding and dividers to protect your gear
» Small slip pockets for easy access to SD cards
» Back zipper pocket to secure your essentials
» Nickel-free metal turn-lock front closure
» Made from durable, full-grain leather

Best Shoulder Bag

ONA Bowery – $$

When I want to pack light, I love my ONA Bowery bag.  Its vintage look and multiple pockets make it the perfect everyday camera bag, and it doubles as a camera insert inside a larger bag by simply removing the shoulder strap.  Talk about convenience!

Features:

» Handcrafted from premium leather or waxed canvas
» Removable, adjustable shoulder strap
» 6 total slip pockets in various sizes
» Secure tuck-clasp closure
» Available in multiple colors

Best Messenger Bag

ONA Prince Street – $$$

If I want a vintage look with a little more room, I’m obsessed with my ONA Prince Street.  The big brother of ONA’s Bowery bag, this roomier option can hold a DSLR body, up to three lenses, and multiple accessories.  Plus, its many pockets keep gear organized and safe.

Features:

» Handcrafted from premium leather or waxed canvas
» Removable, adjustable shoulder strap
» 6 total slip pockets in various sizes
» Secure double tuck-clasp closure
» Available in multiple colors

Best Sling Bag

Peak Design Everyday Sling – $$

When I want something lightweight and easy to carry, I always use my Peak Design Everyday Sling.  Like my other Peak Design products, its thoughtful design is second-to-none.  It has a spacious interior, lots of pockets to organize accessories, and offers easy access to all my gear on the go.

Features:

» Available in 3L, 6L, and 10L sizes
» Wear as a sling or hip bag in 3L and 6L sizes, sling only in 10L
» Multiple padded dividers and interior pockets for organization
» Durable and water-resistant UltraZips zippers
» High-visibility grey nylon interior

Best Camera Backpack

Nomatic McKinnon Camera Pack – $$$

Anyone who knows photography knows the name Peter McKinnon.  An authority on travel photography and the best photography gear, Peter doesn’t put his name on just anything.  So, when he partnered with Nomatic to create the best photography backpack on the market, they didn’t disappoint.  This bag has everything you could ever want to keep your equipment orderly and secure.

Features:

» 35L with 42L expansion
» Durable, water-resistant construction
» Separate camera and clothing sections
» Laptop and tablet storage
» Quick side access pocket

Bonus Bag: Best Anti-Theft Belt Bag

Tarriss Anti-theft Money Belt with RFID Protection – $

If you want to ensure your valuables and personal information remain safe while you’re away, then a good anti-theft bag is essential.  And the Tarriss Anti-theft money belt offers peace of mind at an affordable price with some thoughtful attributes.

Features:

» RFID protection for chipped credit cards, IDs, and passports
» Wearable under or over clothing with breathable microfiber backing
» Adjustable for maximum comfort
» Two convenient zipper compartments

And, there you have it!  The ten best travel bags on the market today (and some of my personal favorites!)  Each has a thoughtful design that’s guaranteed to make your life on the road a little bit easier, not to mention more fashionable!

What are some of your favorite travel bags?  Comment below, I’d love to hear about them!

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