There are several types of bags one can use for travel, each designed to suit a specific need.
This month, we dig deeper into the different types of traveling bags available – focusing on just 5 of the most popular ones out of the several options available. Traveling bags come in a variety of sizes as well as fabrics. The choice one makes in which one/s to buy or use for a specific occasion depends on the occasion and the user's requirements.
We advocate for all-things leather, obviously, due to the durability of leather amongst many other benefits outlined in this month’s blog. So if you are planning a trip, or simply want to know what’s trending in the traveling bag world – then read on.
Five most common types of bags
Now, which bag someone selects for travel is dependent on a variety of factors. It could be the amount/type of luggage one wishes to carry, duration of the stay, destination, or weather. We discuss the options below:
1. Duffle Bags.
The duffle bag is a large, cylindrical-shaped bag often made of leather or canvas. It comes with carry-straps – the bonus shoulder strap giving the bag a bit more comfort. The duffle also has a zip enclosure giving the user easy access to all contents in the bag.
This bag makes for a stylish weekend bag and can also be used as a gym bag or to carry kids' change of clothes for a play date.
The benefit of the duffle is that it’s easy to carry. Get yourself one made of leather to ensure durability. And if you can invest in a roll-on version, then you are sorted.
The duffle, however, usually isn’t designed with a lock function and can be tedious to lug around if you are going to be on your feet for long periods.
The Tuli duffle bag. Made out of full-grain leather
Mixed media leather and canvas duffle bag
2. Backpacks.
Looking for that hands-free luggage experience? Then look no further than the backpack/rucksack.
Originating from the army – the rucksack is a shoulder bag to carry on your back and comes in 3 variations: the daypack – which is a small, 10 to 20-kilogram weight carrying bag for one-day trips, the overnight pack – carries up to 30 kilograms of items and can be used for 2 to 3-day trips, and the travel pack – which can carry up to 35 Kilograms.
Backpacks are constantly being reinvented to give ease of use to the user. Nowadays, most modern backpacks have easy access pockets to allow the user to access frequently used items such as water bottles, food packets, phones, lip balm, and hand wipes without having to open the full bag.
The Munesu full-grain leather backpack doubles as a perfect baby essentials carry-bag.
Nicotine backpack made of African Cape Buffalo
3. Weekenders.
The Weekender is similar to the duffel bag, but is slightly smaller and used for overnight trips. Most come with a single zipper compartment and an extra outer or inner compartment to put smaller items.
Weekenders are popular for short trips, as they have a compact design allowing them to fit easily in various transport mode compartments. They also come in a variety of fabrics, making them ideal for the fashion enthusiast.
Nicotine backpack made of African Cape Buffalo
4. Trolley Luggage Bags.
Available as 2 or 4 wheelers, trolley luggage bags are ideal for carrying heavier items and come in a variety of sizes, with the bigger ones carrying as much as 100kg.
Besides being good for carrying more items, trolley bags offer the benefit of relieving the traveler/user from shoulder weight as they are simply pulled.
Their biggest disadvantage is when you have to carry them when they are carrying full capacity as the bigger sizes tend to be bulky.
Four wheel leather trolley case
5. Travel Totes.
We love the travel tote as it is the perfect carry-all overnight bag. Its multi-functional ease makes it a must-have for any ladies’ wardrobe. One can use it daily as a handbag, carry-on, or shopping bag.
Not only is the tote fashionable, but it also makes an easy match with most wardrobe items.
The biggest challenge with the tote is that finding smaller items such as keys can prove to be a bit of a mission.
Investing in a durable piece of luggage is important, not only in ensuring the safety of your valuables during your trip but also in serving as storage.
You are guaranteed you won’t go wrong with leather travel bags as leather is not only durable, it is also trendy and never goes out of style.
Nguni Fartan tote bag
The Ankole full-grain leather tote bag
