Best Leather Duffle Bags for Men and Women

There comes a point in every adult’s life—perhaps when you finally get off your parents’ plan and start paying for your own cell phone—that you realize it’s time to upgrade that ripped gym bag you’ve been using as a carry-on for decades.

An elevated duffle can take the place of your favorite weekender bag and best carry-on luggage (as long as it meets airline size requirements, of course) with enough pouches and pockets to efficiently stash your clothes, toiletries and whatever else you feel the need to tote along. If you’re looking for a carryall that will outlast your next passport, it’s hard to beat the rugged sophistication and durability of leather. Like fine wine, a good quality leather bag will only get better with age and will hold up no matter how many times it’s stuffed in an overhead bin. We asked a team of style pros to share the best of the haul.

Our top picks for the best leather duffel bags

How we selected the best leather duffle bags

Along with scouring the Internet to check out the offerings from a wide range of brands and reading reviews and customer critiques, we asked stylists Azoulay, Boedecker and Rentmeester to share what makes a quality duffel bag and their favorite options.

What to consider when buying a leather duffle bag

Leather

Quality is key here, says fashion stylist and founder of Le Catch, Marlien Rentmeester: “Aim for supple, soft, malleable, and one that ages well. You don't want anything too precious or pristine because it will get scuffed and scratched.”

Style

If this is more of an investment piece, opt for a neutral shade and a more classic cylindrical or oblong shape, suggests Rentmeester. A piece “that will stand the test of time and trends.”

Function

Don’t forget to consider factors like storage and ease of use. “The first thing I look for in a duffle is going to be ease of travel,” says Rachel Boedecker founder of The Style Edit Co, a Chicago-based company that offers personal styling for men and women and custom clothing for men. “If I’m not rolling it, I’m carrying, so comfort is key. I like to make sure my bag has a comfortable crossbody or shoulder strap as well as a handle.” For Azoulay it’s all about the compartments. “For my toiletries, phone chargers, laptop—interior pockets are a must.”

Also think about how you might use your tote. “Will I be using this bag for quick weekend trips? If so, a medium size weekender bag is suitable,” notes Boedecker. “If I’m going on a longer trip, I'd look for a large bag with more room. I also think of the functionality. Am I using this bag for the gym and need a storage compartment for shoes? Or is this a bag I'm using for work and I need a padded compartment for a laptop or tablet?”

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

How can you tell if a leather bag is good quality?

For Rentmeester, it’s all in the details. “I always examine the stitching at the seams,” reveals the stylist. “They should be tightly intact.” She adds, that “the leather should not be too shiny or stiff.” Azoulay likes to zero in on the handles, which should be secured “by metal rings,” she says, “or under a flap.”

Boedecker recommends gravitating toward a bag made with a full or top-grain leather because they’re super durable “and will extend the life of your bag.” Don’t forget it’s what’s inside that counts.“The interior should be lined with a durable and easy-to-clean fabric,” Boedecker adds

How do you care for a leather duffle bag?

“The beauty of leather is that it looks better over time,” notes Boedecker, “but if you do need to clean you have options.” She recommends wiping it down using either a leather cleaner or a cloth lightly dampened with mild soap and water.” Don’t forget to condition it once or twice a year, she notes, “so it doesn’t dry out.”

How do you wash a leather duffle bag?

While your leather doesn’t need regular baths, if you do get a stain, you can see if your local dry cleaner has a leather specialist that can treat it. Another option, says Azoulay, “take it to a shoemaker in your area to touch it up. They are experts on leather.”

Are leather duffle bags good for travel?

Of course, as long as the travel isn’t, say, hiking up a mountain. “I typically use a leather duffle as a carry-on, to hold and transport what didn't fit into my suitcase,” says Rentmeester, who gravitates to those “that can sit on top of my suitcase as I am dashing through the airport!” Echoes Azoulay. “Personally I love to adventure with my family, even if for a weekend or a one-night escape and I always pack light to keep it simple. A great leather duffle bag is the perfect solution, so long as it’s structured and sturdy enough to last.”

Are leather bags worth it?

If you like the style, absolutely. A high-quality leather piece “can last forever,” says Rentmeester, “and the worn-in patina just gets better with age.” Agrees Boedecker, “A leather duffle bag is a classic and timeless piece that will never go out of style and the material can truly stand the test of time.”