Our Guide To Finding Your Perfect Travel Bag


Choosing the right travel bag can make your journey feel effortless. Whether you’re heading off on a weekend break, planning a business trip or taking a longer holiday, the right bag brings comfort, convenience and style.

Not sure what you need? Then you are in the right place. We are here to give you advice, real-world tips and a few of our favourite Tripp recommendations to help you find the perfect fit.


What To Look For In A Travel Bag

 

1. Think About What Kind Of Trip You Are Taking

Your destination and duration determine the kind of travel bag you'll need. A compact weekend bag works perfectly for city escapes, while longer stays call for something more spacious. Consider how you’ll be moving around, too. Backpacks keep your hands free, while underseat bags make airports simpler to navigate.

 

2. A Size That Works for You

If travelling by plane, remember that airlines have different rules when it comes to cabin bags, so it’s always worth checking in advance. Your bag should meet airline size requirements but still hold what you need. Internal compartments can help to maximise space and make the best use of the size requirements.

 

3. Remember Comfort Is Key

If you’re walking through stations, airports or city streets, your bag needs to feel comfortable. Padded straps, soft handles and even weight distribution make a big difference.

 

4. Look For Strong & Reliable Materials

Durability matters. Whether you prefer soft, flexible fabric or a more structured style, make sure your bag is built to handle the demands of travel. Water-resistant finishes are a bonus for unexpected weather.

 

5. Style Meets Function

A good travel bag keeps things organised without compromising on appearance. Look for zipped sections, quick-access pockets and secure closures all wrapped in a look that suits your style.


What Type Of Traveller Are You?

Matching your travel bag to your lifestyle can make packing easier and journeys more enjoyable. Here’s how to choose based on how you travel:

  • The Minimalist: You pack light, plan your outfits and want everything in its place. Look for a slim backpack or compact flight bag with zipped compartments to keep things neat. Tripp’s Recommendation: Voyage Flight Bag
  • The Weekender: You want something stylish that fits enough for a short break without going overboard. A soft holdall or cabin-sized duffle gives you room without bulk. Tripp’s Recommendation: Ultra Lite Large Holdall
  • The Commuter Or Business Traveller: You carry tech, work gear and a change of clothes. Choose a smart backpack with a laptop sleeve and external pockets for your charger, documents and more. Tripp’s Recommendation: Voyage Backpack
  • The Organised Explorer: You like everything to have its place, and you want easy access to it all. Go for a bag with structured compartments and packing features. Tripp’s Recommendation: Voyage Clam Shell Cabin Duffle


Travel Bag vs Cabin Suitcase: Which Should You Choose?

Both have their perks, but one might suit your travel style better.


Choose A Travel Bag If:

  • You want something flexible and soft-sided
  • You’ll be walking a lot and prefer a backpack or a shoulder strap
  • You’re packing for a short trip or overnight stay

Choose A Cabin Suitcase If:

  • You prefer structure and hard-sided protection
  • You’re packing more or travelling for business
  • You need to roll instead of carry

What Features Make A Travel Bag Great?

It’s not just about how a bag looks; the best travel bags work hard too. Here are the features you should look out for that really make a difference:

  • Adjustable shoulder straps for comfort
  • Zipped pockets to keep your items secure
  • Laptop or tablet compartments to protect your tech
  • Trolley sleeves that keep your bag secure and easy to move while travelling
  • Internal organisers and mesh dividers
  • Lockable zips that can be secured with a padlock and key for added security while travelling

These features take the stress out of packing and unpacking, keeping everything in place while you travel.


Let's Find The Right Bag For You

Every journey is different, and so is the bag you’ll need. Here’s a quick guide to the main types of Tripp travel bags and what they’re best for:

  • Backpacks: Hands-free, practical and easy to carry. Perfect for commuters, city breaks or anyone who prefers a lightweight, cabin-friendly option. 
  • Holdalls: Soft, flexible and spacious, a classic choice for weekend breaks, gym trips or short holidays. Easy to pack and comfortable to carry, they provide ample space without being bulky.
  • Flight BagsCompact and sleek, designed to fit neatly under most airline seats. Perfect for essentials like travel documents, tech and toiletries when you want to keep everything close by.
  • Vanity CasesSmall, structured and stylish, these keep your toiletries, cosmetics and smaller items organised while you travel. They can also double up as a personal item on board.
  • Cabin Duffles On WheelsThe best of both worlds, soft and flexible like a duffle, but with smooth wheels and a trolley handle for easy movement. Great for weekend breaks or short work trips.
  • Duffle BagsCasual and versatile, duffles are roomy enough for longer weekends and short trips. Carried by hand or over the shoulder, they’re flexible and easy to store when not in use.

Still Not Sure? Use This Quick Guide

Here’s a simple way to narrow things down:
 


Do you want to be hands-free while travelling?

Yes: Go for a backpack

No: Try a holdall or duffle


Are you travelling with just one personal item on board?

Yes: Choose a flight bag
No: A larger holdall or clamshell duffel gives more room
 


Do you need space for tech?

Yes: Pick a bag with a laptop sleeve, like the Voyage Backpack
No: Keep it simple with the Ultra Lite Holdall
 


Ready To Find Your Perfect Travel Bag?

Your travel bag is more than just luggage; it’s part of your journey. It keeps your belongings organised, simplifies packing, and helps you move confidently through every part of your trip.

We’ve created a range of travel bags designed for all kinds of travellers. Whether you’re packing light for a quick weekend or looking for a bag that keeps up with your day-to-day, you’ll find your perfect travel companion.


10th September 2025

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