About Duffel Bags at The North Face

When it comes to versatility, nothing quite matches the duffel bag (or duffle bag as it is often spelled). Whether you want to use it as carry-on luggage, a gym bag, a sports carry-all, or an all-purpose bag, if you're shopping for a duffel, you're sure to find something perfect for you here at The North Face.

The Best Duffel Bags For Multi-Purpose Use

Some duffel bags are designed with purpose-specific features like shoe compartments, ball holders, and wheels, but the best duffel bags for multi-purpose use are those with a simple design: a single main compartment with dual handles and/or an adjustable shoulder strap.  Additional pockets are nice to have to stash small essentials like keys, a phone, and a wallet. 

Medium-sized duffels are great for use at the gym and yoga studio since they can hold items without being bulky. Larger sizes are ideal for cross-country road trips, sports equipment, or even to carry laundry to the laundromat (or home for you college students!). Planning a week-long camping trip?  Pack all your favorite hoodies, pants, and hiking boots in an extra large duffel bag like our Base Camp Duffel XL.

Durability is Key

Like with any bag or backpack, durability is key in duffel bags.  Look for features like double-stitching and water-resistant material to help combat wear and tear.  Our Base Camp Duffels, for example, are made with both of these features plus a water-resistant ID window on top for easy identification at the airport.  The zippered flap is also weather-resistant.

Extra Features For Convenient Carry

Duffel bags typically have both handles and a shoulder strap.  The North Face Base Camp duffels feature a detachable, adjustable, and ergonomic should strap that minimizes twisting during use.  That means whether you're slinging your bag across town or across the airport, you won't arrive at your destination with sore shoulders.  Some of our duffel bags like the Base Camp style can also be worn like a backpack for when you want your hands free to navigate difficult situations.

If you plan to use your duffel bag mainly for travel, consider searching for a bag with compression straps, wheels, and additional organization like interior mesh pockets.  Our Voyager duffels have an internal secure-zip pocket, an external water bottle pocket, and a small external zip pocket for small items like a passport.

Soft-sided duffels are collapsible, so you can fit one easily in a drawer at home until you need it.

Duffel Bag FAQs

Why is it called a duffel bag?

The name "duffel" comes from the material that was originally used to make these bags.  Duffel is a village near Antwerp, Belgium and is where the material was produced strating around the mid-17th century.  While the proper spelling is "duffel" bag, sometimes people spell it "duffle".

Is a duffel bag considered a carry on?

It depends on the size of the bag, how much you pack in it, and how much it weighs after packed. Smaller bags can fit in an overhead bin or luggage rack. Larger sizes will likely need to be checked. It's important to check your individual airline's luggage rules, but generally a carry-on should be no larger than 9 inches x 14 inches x 22 inches.

Where can I buy duffel bags?

The North Face duffel bags can be ordered online on our website and purchased in person at one of our stores. Use our store locator to find a retail store or outlet near you.

What size duffel bag do I need?

Choose your duffel bag size based on what you need to put in it. Smaller bags, like The North Face XS Base Camp Duffel, are perfect for short trips or as a gym bag. A larger bag, like The North Face XXL Base Camp Duffel is great for long trips.