Can a Duffel Bag Be Used as a Carry On?

If you’re planning to travel by plane, and want to pack light, you might be wondering if you can use a duffel bag as your carry-on luggage.

Duffel bags are great for traveling because they’re spacious, versatile, and easy to carry. But can you bring them on board without any hassle? The answer depends on the size of your duffel bag and the airline you’re flying with.

In this post, we’ll explain:

• What size duffel bag you can carry on a plane,
• What are the benefits and drawbacks of using a duffel bag as your carry-on, and
• How to measure your duffel bag correctly.

We’ll also share some tips on how to choose the best duffel bag for your travel needs.

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

What Size Duffel Bag Can You Bring on a Plane?

The size of your duffel bag matters a lot when it comes to using it as your carry-on luggage. If your duffel bag is too big, you might have to check it and pay extra fees. If your duffel bag is too small, you might not be able to fit everything you need for your trip.

While it may vary from airline to airline, the maximum duffel bag carry-on size is typically 22 x 14 x 9 inches for flights within the U.S.

Some airlines also have weight restrictions for carry-on bags, which can range from 7 kg (15 lbs) to 10 kg (22 lbs) or more. This is more prevalent with low-cost and non-U.S. airlines. Again, make sure to check with your airline before you pack your duffel bag.

Carry On Size and Weight Limits for U.S. Airlines

The following table shows the carry-on bag size and weight limits for U.S. airlines.

Note: These carry-on allowances were current at the time of writing, but baggage rules can change over time, and with little notice. Please check with your airline before your flight.

The carry-on size limits for U.S. carriers is fairly consistent. Most airlines don’t have a weight limit for carry-on bags.

Carry On Size and Weight Limits for International Airlines

Let’s now have a look at a representative selection of non-U.S. airlines. We can see that the size limit is consistent across most airlines. However, the size limit tends to be less than their U.S. counterparts.

More alarmingly, most airlines enforce weight limits for carry-on bags. with certain airlines, your carry-on weight allowance is the combined weight of your carry-on bag and personal item.

It’s in these situations where duffel bags shine. They are a lot lighter than suitcases, which means that you’re not wasting valuable weight on the carry-on itself.

Personal Items Size and Weight Limits

Most airlines also allow you to bring a personal item in addition to your carry-on bag. A personal item is typically smaller than your carry-on bag, as it needs to fit under the seat in front of you. You could foreseeably use a duffel bag as a personal item, as long as it’s within the size limits.

A personal item can be up to 18 x 14 x 8 inches in size, depending on the airline. If an airline doesn’t specify a size limit for personal items (and many don’t), you can use that size limit as a guide when shopping for a personal item.

Related: 10 Best Personal Item Bags for Frontier Airlines

U.S. Airlines

The following table shows the size limit for personal items on U.S. airlines.

International Airlines

The following table includes the personal item size and weight limits for non-U.S. airlines. From this list, Emirates and Etihad Airways don’t allow personal items. You can only travel with a carry-on.

Related: The 5 Best Duffel Bags for Checked Luggage

If you want to maximize your packing space, you can use a duffel bag as your carry-on bag and a smaller duffel bag as your personal item. Just make sure they both fit within the size and weight limits of your airline.

How to Measure Your Duffel Bag Correctly

Duffel bags come in different shapes and sizes, so measuring them can be tricky. Unlike hard-sided suitcases, duffel bags are soft and flexible, which means they can be squeezed and compressed to fit into smaller spaces.

However, when measuring your duffel bag for carry-on purposes, you need to use the largest possible dimensions of your bag. That means measuring the length, width, and height of your bag when it is fully packed and expanded.

To measure your duffel bag correctly, follow these steps:

1. Lay your duffel bag on a flat surface and fill it with everything you want to pack for your trip.

2. Zip up your duffel bag and make sure there are no loose straps or handles sticking out.

5. Determine the height of your duffel bag by measuring it from the top to the bottom.

6. Add up the length, width, and height of your duffel bag to get the total linear dimensions of your bag.

7. Compare the total linear dimensions of your duffel bag with the maximum carry-on size allowed by your airline. If your duffel bag is larger than the limit, you might have to remove some items or use a smaller bag.

Alternatively, you can use a cardboard box that fits within the carry-on size limit of your airline and try to fit your duffel bag inside it. If it fits comfortably without bulging or bending, then your duffel bag is good to go.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Using a Duffel Bag as Your Carry On

Using a duffel bag as your carry-on luggage has some advantages and disadvantages that you should consider before you travel. Here are some of them:

Benefits

• Duffel bags are spacious and can hold a lot of items without taking up too much space.
• Duffel bags are flexible, can be squeezed and compressed to fit into overhead bins or under seats.
• Duffel bags are easy to carry and can be worn over your shoulder, across your body, or by the handles.
• Duffel bags are versatile and can be used for different types of trips, such as weekend getaways, camping trips, or sports activities.
• Duffel bags are durable and can withstand rough handling and weather conditions.

Drawbacks

• Duffel bags are not very organized and can make it hard to find what you need quickly.
• Duffel bags are not very secure and can be easily opened or tampered with by thieves or airport staff.
• Duffel bags are not very comfortable and can cause strain on your shoulders, back, or neck if they are too heavy or bulky.
• Duffel bags are not very stylish and can look sloppy or unprofessional compared to other types of luggage.

How to Choose the Best Duffel Bag for Your Travel Needs

If you decide to use a duffel bag as your carry-on luggage, you need to choose the best one for your travel needs. Here are some factors to consider when shopping for a duffel bag:

Size

Choose a duffel bag that fits within the carry-on size limit of your airline and has enough space for everything you need for your trip. Avoid oversized or undersized duffel bags that can cause problems at the airport or during your travel.

Shape

Choose a duffel bag that has a rectangular shape that is close to the carry-on size limit of your airline. This will give you the most packing capacity and make it easier to fit your bag into overhead bins or under seats.

Avoid duffel bags that have irregular shapes that can waste space or cause difficulties when measuring your bag.

This is especially important if you’re traveling on an ultra-low-cost airline such as Frontier or Spirit Airlines. These carriers have a reputation for being vigilant when scrutinizing the size of carry-on baggage.

Material

Choose a duffel bag that is made of durable and lightweight material that can withstand wear and tear and protect your belongings from damage.

Look for materials such as nylon, polyester, canvas, or leather that are water-resistant, stain-resistant, and easy to clean.

Avoid materials such as cotton, wool, or silk that are heavy, absorbent, and prone to damage.

Features

Choose a duffel bag that has features that suit your travel needs and preferences. Look for features such as:

• Lockable zippers for the main compartment
• Pockets (zippered and unzippered for quick access
• Wet compartments to store toiletries
• Adjustable and removable straps
• Comfortable carry handles

Avoid features that are unnecessary, bulky, or complicated that can add weight or hassle to your bag.

Some duffel bags tend to be overengineered – you’re forced to pack and organize your belongings due to its convoluted design.

One of the main attractions of duffel bags, at least for me, is that they provide an uncomplicated way of packing your belongings without much fuss.

Recommended Carry On Duffel Bags

Here are some of our top picks for carry-on duffel bags:

Adidas Defender 4 Small Duffel Bag

Key Features:

• Size: 20.5 x 11.75 x 11 inches
• Padded adjustable and removable shoulder strap
• Multiple external zippered pockets
• Made from 100% polyester
• Water-resistant
• Available in dozens of colors
• Lifetime warranty

Wohlbege Canvas Carry On Duffel Bag

Key Features:

• Size: 20.47 x 13.78 x 9.1 inches
• Weight: 2.43 lb
• Stylish and fashionable design
• Removable padded shoulder strap
• Internal and external pockets
• Made from canvas (polyester fiber lining)
• Colors: army, black, coffee, gray, green, khaki

Rockland Duffel Bag

Key Features:

• Size: 19 x 11 x 9 inches
• Made from 100% polyester
• Machine washable
• Multiple zippered external pockets
• Adjustable and removable shoulder strap
• Available in various funky designs and colors

HYC00 Travel Duffel Bag

Key Features:

• Size: 21.7 x 10.6 x 7.1 inches
• Lifetime warranty
• Available in many vibrant colors
• Internal and external pockets
• Water-resistant internal pocket for your toiletries or wet items
• Luggage sleeve on the back
• Adjustable and removable shoulder strap

ETRONIK Sports Travel Duffel Bag with USB Charging Port

Key Features:

• Size: 18.5 x 14.2 x 8.7 inches
• Weight: 2 pounds
• Integrated USB charging port
• Available in dozens of fashionable and vibrant colors
• Internal wet pocket for your toiletries
• Separate shoe compartment

Narwey Personal Item Travel Duffel Bag for Spirit Airlines

Key Features:

• Size: 18 x 13 x 6.3 inches
• Weight: 7.2 ounces
• Capacity: 25 liters
• Water-resistant
• Can hold up to 45 pounds
• Luggage sleeve on the back
• Available in dozens of colors
• Can be folded up into its integrated pouch

Related: 10 Best Personal Item Bags for Spirit Airlines

Wandf Personal Item Travel Duffel Bag

Key Features:

• Size: 17.7 x 12.6 x 6.3 inches
• Weight: 7 ounces
• Capacity: 25 liters
• Luggage sleeve on the back
• Available in dozens of colors
• Made from water-resistant nylon

Felipe Varela 40L Duffle Bag

Key Features:

• Size: 23.5 x 12 x 9.5 inches
• Weight: 0.8 pounds
• Water resistant fabric
• Several zippered external pockets
• Includes a separate zippered toiletry bag with an integrated hanging hook
• Comfortable padded handles
• Removable padded shoulder strap
• Can be worn as backpack (includes hidden shoulder straps)
• Luggage sleeve on the back

Dimayar Travel Duffel Bag

Key Features:

• Size: 20.8 x 11.8 x 9.64 inches
• Weight: 0.8 pounds
• Capacity: 40 liters
• Can be folded into its integrated pouch (10 x 8 inches when folded)
• Internal pouch and shoe compartment
• Multiple external pockets
• Adjustable and removable strap
• Luggage sleeve on the back
• Water and tear resistant

Modoker Convertible Garment Duffel Bag

Key Features:

• Size: 22.8 x 11.8 x 11 inches
• Weight: 2.53 pounds
• Capacity: 45 liters
• Can be converted into a garment bag
• Includes a toiletry bag (9.3 x 5 x 4.7 inches)
• Integrated shoe pouch
• External zippered pockets
• Water and wear-resistant
• Adjustable and removable shoulder strap

BUELPTN Travel Duffel Bag

Key Features:

• Size: 17.8 x 11.6 x 10.3 inches
• Weight: 1.3 pounds
• Includes a separate toiletry bag
• Adjustable and removable strap
• Integrated shoe compartment
• Internal wet compartment for toiletries
• Machine washable
• Waterproof
• Available in dozens of fashionable colors

Gonex Foldable Travel Duffel Bag

Key Features:

• Size: 20.8 x 13 x 9.8 inches
• Weight: 0.8 pounds
• Capacity: 40 liters
• Colors: black, purple, deep blue, gray
• Integrated shoe compartment
• Internal pouch for organization
• Multiple zippered external pockets
• Adjustable and removable shoulder strap
• Foldable design
• Water resistant

Final Thoughts

Using a duffel bag as your carry-on luggage can be a smart and practical choice if you want to pack light and travel comfortably. However, you need to make sure that your duffel bag meets the size and weight requirements of your airline and that it has the features and qualities that suit your travel needs.

We hope this blog post has helped you understand what size duffel bag you can carry on a plane and how to measure your duffel bag correctly.

We also hope you have learned some tips on how to choose the best duffel bag for your travel needs.

Remember to always check your airline’s website or contact their customer service for the latest information on their baggage policies.