If you’re traveling for business or need to carry formalwear for a special event, a convertible garment duffel bag could add great value to your trip. It has the capacity to hold an outfit on a hanger and then folds into a bag that carries loose items, saving you from the trouble of locating an iron while you’re away from home.
However, these types of bags usually aren’t manufactured by any of the more well-known luggage brands, so it’s vital to take a look at the quality of those currently available on the market. We’ve reviewed some of the most highly-rated convertible garment duffel bags out there and offered helpful tips on how to select one that best meets your travel needs.
Top-Rated Convertible Garment Duffel Bags
- Best overall convertible garment duffel bag: Bukere Convertible Carry On Duffel Bag
- Most lightweight: Modoker Carry On Garment Duffel Bag
- Most affordable: Newhey Carry On Convertible Duffel Bag
- Most design: Seyfocnia Convertible Travel Garment Bag
- Most durable: Uniquebella Carry-On Garment Bag
- Best for women: Ytonet Large Hanging Duffel Bag
- Most spacious: Canway Carry On Garment Bag
- Most luxurious: Bolosta Leather Garment Duffel Bag
Bukere Convertible Duffel
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Modoker Garment Duffel
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Newhey Carry On Duffel
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Seyfocnia Convertible Garment Bag
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Uniquebella Carry-On Garment Bag
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Ytonet Hanging Duffel
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Canway Carry On Garment Bag
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Bolosta Leather Garment Duffel
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Tips on Buying Convertible Garment Duffel Bags (Guide)
Strange Smells
One of the main complaints about convertible duffel bags in general is that they tend to arrive with a stuffiness often described to smell like fish. This is a common issue because of the manufacturing and packaging process, however, the smell can easily be removed with the right approach.
First, it would be advisable to ensure that your package arrives a good few days before your trip, as you’ll need to give the bag some time to air out. If the smell still hasn’t subsided after the bag has been left in the open (preferably outdoors) for a while, wash it with cold water. While doing this, it’s vital to be mindful of the type of material you’re dealing with and follow all the relevant care instructions.
Lastly, you can use a mixture of lemon juice and water on the fabric and then dry the bag in the sun. This should get rid of any remainder of the smell, so if you’re still experiencing issues, it would be wise to contact the manufacturer or seller for further assistance.
Understanding What Size Convertible Garment Duffel Bag You Should Get
When considering the best convertible garment duffel bag to meet your needs, you’ll need to be mindful of the dimensions of both the garment section and the entire bag once it’s been folded into shape.
Since you’re most likely already aware of how big the suit, dress, or other clothing items you’ll be taking on your trip are, you can use this information to discern whether the garment section of your chosen duffel bag is spacious enough to accommodate these. Some customers have complained that certain bags are too small to fit in plus-sized clothing, so if you’re concerned about this, you may need to opt for a bigger bag or fold your clothing item to meet the restrictions of the space.
Most people choose to use this luggage piece as a carry-on item, so it’s also important to ensure that your preferred convertible garment duffel bag falls within 22 x 14 x 9 inches or 51 linear inches (130 cm). You can calculate linear inches by adding together the height, width, and length of the bag you’re interested in.
It’s also worth noting that you don’t need to follow these dimensions exactly to the inch because garment bags are flexible and they’ll usually fit within measuring bins if not overpacked. If your duffel is too large to be used as a carry-on, then it will have to be checked in for additional fees.
Other Things to Look out for Before Buying a Convertible Garment Duffel Bag
Materials
The most common material used in this type of luggage is polyester, as it’s incredibly lightweight and quite cheap to manufacture. You’ll be able to determine how durable polyester fabric is by its Dernier count – a measurement that refers to the thickness of the threads that have been woven together. The higher the Dernier count, the more durable and water resistant the fabric will be.
You may also find some bags made from nylon, which is even more lightweight than polyester is, but a bit more expensive, which is why it’s less commonly used. The quality of nylon is also measured in Derniers, but generally speaking, the fabric tends to be a lot more resistant to abrasion and wear than polyester.
If protecting your garments from the elements is your number one concern, it would be advisable to opt for a suitcase made from PU (polyurethane) leather, a synthetic material that mimics many properties of real leather – except its price! However, PU leather may wear quite quickly while in storage when compared to some of the other materials these bags are available in.
Read Next: 12 Best Underseat Bags Without Wheels in 2022
Component Quality
A convertible garment duffel bag is only as good as its zippers, so it’s vital that these, and any other fittings and components, are of good quality. Even among the most high-end luggage brands, zippers are often the most problematic element on a bag. They have a tendency to break off, get stuck, and fall apart if they aren’t fastened together.
Some garment duffel bag manufacturers opt for metal zippers rather than ones made from plastic, and others include studs and buckles to fasten the zipper closed and prevent it from opening prematurely. Nonetheless, if the quality of your zipper appears to be questionable from the moment you’ve received your bag, it would be wise to claim from the luggage manufacturer’s warranty before using it.
Handles and Straps
If you’ll be taking this bag as a carry-on, it’s vital to make sure that the straps and handles provide ample support and won’t cause strain on your wrists and shoulders while you board. While most convertible garment duffel bags include both carry handles and an adjustable strap, the quality of some is better than others. Look for handles and straps that are padded or ergonomically designed. It would also be wise not to overpack this bag, since you won’t have the option of wheeling it along if it becomes too heavy to carry.
Packing Capabilities
Utility is an important aspect of this luggage type, as you’ll want to ensure that the chances of your garments becoming tarnished or damaged are minimized. For this reason, many convertible garment duffel bags include pockets specifically for ties and shoes, making it easy to optimize the way you pack.
You’ll also find that some bag designs include small items pockets, which could prove useful if you’d like to store jewelry or cufflinks without the risk of losing them. Other bags also have smart exterior pockets that make it easy to stow your passport, stationery, or any other quick-access items.
Capacity
An important aspect of a garment duffel bag is the amount of space you’ll have for your loose items. If you’re smart about how you pack, it’s possible to get by with this bag as your only piece of luggage on a short trip. When converted into a duffel bag, some pieces offer more space than others, so it would be wise to carefully consider your packing habits when deciding on which model will work for you.
On the other hand, overpacking the duffel section of the bag may make it difficult to manage while you’re boarding, and you’ll run the risk of it becoming too bulky for the overhead compartment of the plane. Some customers have also complained about the clothing in the garment section of the bag becoming wrinkled if there are too many items on top of it in the duffel compartment.
Ultimately, it will depend on what your priorities for this bag are when making your final choice.
Best Convertible Garment Duffel Bags in 2022 Compared
1. Best Overall: Bukere Convertible Carry On Duffel Bag
Key Features: |
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– 2.8 x 12.4 x 11.8 in (57.9 x 31.5 x 30 cm) |
– 2.78 lbs (1.3 kg) |
– Polyester |
– Editors rating: 4.8 |
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This model from Bukere has incorporated all the features you want most in a convertible garment duffel bag. With a 55L capacity and duffel space measuring 22.8 x 12.4 x 11.8 inches (57.9 x 31.5 x 30 cm), you’ll have plenty of room to pack in all the essentials for your next trip. The bag has one of the most spacious garment compartments on this list, offering 41.5 x 21.5 inches (105.4 x 54.6 cm) for you to hang up as many pieces as you can fit. And, because it’s quite lightweight at only 2.78 lbs (1.3 kg), you won’t need to worry about exceeding airline carry-on limits.
One of the Bukere’s best features is the number of elegant design options on offer. The bag comes in 6 different colors, including both feminine and masculine options. This variety makes it appealing to people traveling for business purposes as well as those who may need eveningwear on a leisure trip. Plus, the scratch-resistant polyester fabric on the exterior preserves the aesthetic appeal of the bag, keeping it looking new for longer, and the protective feet at the bottom allow you to set the bag down whenever you need to without worry of scuffing.
If you’re someone who enjoys organizing your items efficiently when packing, you’re in for a treat with this garment duffel bag. The bag is fitted with four elastic straps that buckle together over your garment and keep it secure throughout your journey. It also boasts 13 compartments, including 4 anti-theft pockets, a tie segment with capacity for up to five ties, a shoe compartment, and nifty sections for your passport, boarding pass, or any other small items you may need to access at a moment’s notice. This allows you to keep fewer items in the main cavity of the bag, reducing the risk of the pieces of clothing in the garment section creasing.
Bukere has gone out of its way to reinforce the components on this convertible garment duffel bag by including explosion-proof zipper designs and load-bearing hooks for its detachable strap. However, it’s important to note that even elements of this quality may break or rip if the bag is overloaded. On the plus side, the one-zip design offers far more safety than bags that incorporate a multi-zip system, which will give you peace of mind while traveling. Although the bag doesn’t include studs or a buckle to fasten the zippers to the bag, you can use a padlock to hold them together if you feel the need to do so.
Moving the bag along during your journey won’t be too much of a hassle, as the handles have added comfort grips and padded straps to ease the load as you carry your bag. You’ll also be able to adjust the shoulder strap to better fit your height or use the strap on the back of the bag to fit it over the handle of your wheeled suitcase. Once you’re back home, storage is just as easy as the bag conveniently folds into a cube measuring only 11.8 x 3.5 x 11.4 inches (30 x 8.9 x 29 cm).
Overall, if you’re looking for a convertible garment duffel bag that hits all the major marks and won’t break the bank, this option from Bukere is the way to go.
2. Most Lightweight: Modoker Carry On Garment Duffel Bag
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– 22.8 x 11 x 11.8 in (57.9 x 27.9 x 30 cm) |
– 2.5 lbs (1.1 kg) |
– Jacquard Polyester |
– Editors rating: 4.6 |
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If you’re someone who packs quite lightly and you simply need a small and compact garment duffel bag for an upcoming trip, the Modoker Carry On is the perfect fit. The bag weighs only 2.5 lbs (1.1 kg) and measures 22.8 x 11 x 11.8 inches (57.9 x 27.9 x 30 cm) when converted to its duffel bag form. So, while you may not be able to pack in as many items as you would in some of the other options on this list, your bag should remain effortless to carry throughout your trip.
Modoker has six stylish models available in this range, however, my favorite by far is the Blue Stripe version that will undoubtedly have you standing out from the crowd as you move through the airport. No matter which option you choose, you’ll benefit from the tasteful elegance of the jacquard polyester fabric – a textile type that incorporates intricate patterns into its design during the manufacturing process. This ultimately makes it more impervious to wear and tear and provides a good level of water resistance too.
Carrying the bag is a pleasure as Modoker has made use of PU leather on its handles, easing the stress on your wrists and palms if you choose to hold the bag alongside you as you walk. If you’d prefer, you could also opt for the adjustable shoulder strap with cushioning for added comfort. Before you check in your wheeled luggage you’ll have the option of sitting your duffel comfortably on top of it using the bag’s back flab to secure it.
Although the bag has only a 45L capacity, it has been well-designed to provide packing optimization and still offers great spaciousness. In fact, many customers have remarked that they were able to fit up to three days of clothes and toiletries in without overstuffing the bag. Once you’re done packing in your most-needed items, you’ll be able to close up your bag into its duffel form and fasten the zippers with the buckles that have been provided, preventing it from opening up unintentionally.
What’s most promising about choosing the Modoker is that the manufacturers are quite reliable. They offer good customer service and are passionate about delivering high-quality products. If you experience any issues with the model you’ve purchased, you should receive swift assistance once you contact support.
Overall, if you value quality over price, the Modoker is a great choice for you.
3. Most Affordable: Newhey Carry On Convertible Duffel Bag
Key Features: |
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– 22 x 12.2 x 12.6 in (55.9 x 31 x 32 cm) |
– 3.2 lbs (1.5 kg) |
– Polyester |
– Editors rating: 4.3 |
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If you need a convertible garment duffel bag on short notice and you don’t have too much to spend, this model from Newhey will exceed your expectations. It’s loaded with great features considering its price point and should be quite durable with the right level of care. The bag offers plenty of packing space, with dimensions of 22 x 12.2 x 12.6 inches (55.9 x 31 x 32 cm) when in its duffel form, and 42.5 x 21.6 inches (108 x 54.9 cm) of room for your hanging garments. And, with three hooks for your hangers, you’ll be able to fit in more than just one garment if you need to.
The aesthetic aspect of this bag is quite geared toward professional use, so it may not be the ideal companion if you’re a fan of bright and vibrant colors. However, both the grey and dark black models are chic and sophisticated, offering an elegance that will match well with any other pieces of luggage you are carrying. To help keep your bag looking newer for longer, the exterior is made from durable, water-resistant polyester, and the bottom is fitted with pedestals that prevent scuffing on the fabric when you set it down.
The Newhey convertible garment duffel bag offers great organization of your belongings, which adds a great level of convenience during your trip. There are pockets designed to suit small items like belts, watches, chargers, electronics, and anything else you may not want to leave loose in the main compartment. And, to further prevent wrinkling of the garments in the hanging section of the bag, you’ll find reinforced buckles to keep your clothes as secure as possible. Any ties and shoes you may be carrying can be kept separate in their designated pouches too.
While there have been some complaints about the zipper quality on this bag, these are few and far between. In fact, Newhey has thoughtfully designed its components to remain as functional and long-lasting as possible. The zippers buckle together to prevent them from slipping open unintentionally, and the clips and straps are reinforced to ensure that they don’t break from the weight of your contents. Carrying the bag should be comfortable, as the handles and straps are padded and adjustable to meet your needs.
Overall, if you’re looking for the most affordable garment duffel bag that you can easily take as a carry-on on your next trip, you won’t go wrong with this model from Newhey.
4. Best Design: Seyfocnia Convertible Travel Garment Bag
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– 22 x 12.5 x 12.2 in (55.9 x 31.8 x 31 cm) |
– 4.4 lbs (2 kg) |
– Canvas / PU Leather |
– Editors rating: 4.2 |
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Whether you’re someone who prefers a playfully bright bag, or you’d like the subtle sophistication of darker leather, the convertible garment duffel from Seyfocnia has an option to meet your needs. In fact, you’ll even be able to choose between canvas or PU leather options, depending on which fabric better suits your tastes. Each design option offers chic embellishments that blend in well and match the overall aesthetic of the bag.
Because of the materials this bag is made from, it is one of the heavier choices on this list, weighing in at 4.4 lbs (2 kg). It also isn’t the most spacious, offering only 22 x 12.5 x 12.2 inches (55.9 x 31.8 x 31 cm) in its duffel shape, and 38 x 21 inches (96.5 x 53.3 cm) when opened into a garment bag. However, since it’s never advisable to pack this bag too full in the first place, the 45L capacity should more than suffice for a few days, and make it a little easier to carry the bag as you board. You also won’t have any trouble meeting the airline requirements or fitting the bag into the overhead compartment of the plane.
While most bags in this category are lined with nylon, which may tear if handled too roughly, the Seyfocnia offers a higher level of quality with a durable polyester lining that goes a long way in giving the bag a more luxurious feel. You’ll also benefit from decent compartmentalization capabilities, as the bag is designed with a number of pockets and pouches that make it easy to keep your items organized. The bottom of the garment section is even fitted with elastic straps that will attach to your clothing and keep it wrinkle-free as you travel.
The excellent quality of this bag is reinforced by the low number of complaints it’s received by customers. In most convertible garment duffel bags, components like zippers and straps, have been most reported to be problematic, but the Seyfocnia has made these quite durable by reinforcing them and using stronger materials. And, this hasn’t actually added too much to the price, as the cost remains in line with most other convertible garment duffel bags on this list.
Overall, if you’d like to find a unique design option that suits your tastes, yet be certain that you’re getting a high-quality bag, this model from Seyfocnia is the right choice.
5. Most Durable: Uniquebella Carry-On Garment Bag
Key Features: |
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– 23 x 12 x 12 in (58.4 x 30.5 x 30.5 cm) |
– 2.9 lbs (1.3 kg) |
– 1800D Cationic Polyester |
– Editors rating: 4.0 |
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If you’re looking for a convertible garment duffel bag that will stand the test of time, look no further than this model from Uniquebella. The bag is made from the strongest form of polyester, measuring 1800 Derniers. This means that the fabric has been manufactured with thick fibers, which contributes greatly to its durability and ability to resist wear from the elements. Furthermore, the material is cationic, which is a process that allows it to hold its color for far longer – meaning that your luggage will maintain its aesthetic appeal for years to come. The only downside is that you may pay an additional few dollars for this level of quality.
One issue with this bag is its size. In its duffel form, it measures 23 x 12 x 12 inches (58.4 x 30.5 x 30.5 cm), and when you open it up to hang up your garments, you’ll have 38.5 x 21.2 inches (97.8 x 53.8 cm) of space to contend with. Most customers have quipped that this is a bit too small if you’re a larger-sized person, leaving bigger clothes with wrinkles if folded to fit the dimensions. It’s also been noted that hanging more than one garment in this section may be less than optimal.
On the other hand, handling and packing the bag is a pleasure. There are compartments conveniently located on both the interior and exterior of the bag, allowing you to safely store accessories and gadgets without leaving them loose in the duffel cavity. You’ll also be able to buckle together the zippers for added security and secure your bag on top of your checked luggage while wheeling it using the strap provided. If you need to carry the bag, you shouldn’t have much trouble as it’s incredibly lightweight at only 2.9 lbs (1.3 kg).
Uniquebella doesn’t manufacture this bag in too many different colors, and the ones that are available are mostly dark or low-profile. This makes it a great option for professional use or business travel, but if you’re hoping to add a pop of color to your vacation, you may not be too impressed with the selection on offer.
Overall, if quality is your top priority, the convertible duffel bag from Uniquebella is the ultimate choice for you.
6. Best for Women: Ytonet Large Hanging Duffel Bag
Key Features: |
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– 18.75 x 8.99 x 14.75 in (47.6 x 22.8 x 37.5 cm) |
– 3.06 lbs (1.4 kg) |
– PU Leather |
– Editors rating: 3.8 |
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For the ultimate feminine aesthetic, complete with gorgeous gold embellishments and tassels, you’ll want to take a closer look at the Ytonet Large Hanging Duffel Bag. The bag is available in only one color, a peachy pink aptly named Peachpuff. And, because it’s made from incredibly durable PU leather, the bag is completely waterproof, giving you peace of mind that your evening gowns and cocktail dresses are safe from the elements.
The bag is relatively spacious, measuring 18.75 x 8.99 x 14.75 inches (47.6 x 22.8 x 37.5 cm) when in zipped into its duffel form, and 40 x 18.75 inches (101.6 x 47.6 cm) when laid flat. You’ll also have the use of a generous shoe compartment that’s 12.3 x 10.2 x 4.8 inches (31.2 x 25.9 x 12.2 cm) in size. Unfortunately, there aren’t too many pockets, which may be a dealbreaker if you enjoy optimizing the organization of your items.
This model from Ytonet weighs only 3.06 lbs (1.4 kg), so if you don’t overload it, you shouldn’t have much trouble taking it as a carry-on. The unit includes a detachable, adjustable shoulder strap that is fitted with padding for added comfort. The PU leather handles also go a long way in relieving strain on your palms if you choose to hold your bag at your side as you walk. You won’t have the option of placing the bag on top of your wheeled suitcase, though, as it isn’t fitted with a strap to accommodate this.
Overall, if you need something to suit feminine tastes that will add a flair of elegance to your next trip, consider this model from Ytonet.
7. Most Spacious: Canway Carry On Garment Bag
Key Features: |
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– 24.4 x 11 x 12.6 in (62 x 27.9 x 32 cm) |
– 2.61 lbs (1.2 kg) |
– Polyester |
– Editors rating: 3.5 |
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If you’re looking for something lightweight that packs a punch in capacity, the Canway garment duffel bag is an excellent choice. It offers 60L of room for you to include essentials and more on your next trip, yet weighs only 2.61 lbs (1.2 kg) when empty. In its duffel bag form, its dimensions measure 24.4 x 11 x 12.6 inches (62 x 27.9 x 32 cm), and you’ll have a garment bag measuring 37.8 x 24.4 inches (96 x 62 cm) for your hanging needs.
The manufacturers have made use of incredibly durable materials in this model, giving you a lot more bang for your buck. The zippers are YKK – a well-known zipper manufacturer that offers next-level quality. The interior is made from a wear and water-resistant form of polyester, and the interior lining is polyester too – offering waterproofing between compartments.
The bag is considerably affordable, but this means you won’t benefit from a variety of color and design options. However, the black fabric does offer the versatility to blend in relatively well with most of your other luggage. You also won’t have much potential for compartmentalization on the exterior pocket, as it is large, with no pouches for the organization of your items.
Overall, if you need something spacious and don’t have many qualms about packing optimization, this model from Canway is brilliant.
8. Most Luxurious: Bolosta Leather Garment Duffel Bag
Key Features: |
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– 12 x 12 x 21 in (30.5 x 30.5 x 53.3 cm) |
– 3.4 lbs (1.5 kg) |
– PU Leather |
– Editors rating: 3.3 |
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If you want a bag that oozes sophistication and luxury, the leather garment duffel bag made by Bolosta is the best choice. Made from exquisite PU leather, you can choose between black and brown design options, depending on which better meets your style preferences. Both models are lined with a brown silky fabric that takes the aesthetic appeal of this bag to the next level. The embellishments and handles are made from a form of canvas that adds durability and offers a beautiful contrast to the exterior.
Despite the expensive look, the bag is quite affordable and stays in line with the pricing of the other models on this list. And, with this low price point, you’ll benefit from a good number of tasteful features, including an adjustable shoulder strap with added padding, antislip feet on the bottom of the bag, and zipper buckles to prevent the bag from opening up unnecessarily.
The bag offers decent dimensions, with 12 x 12 x 21 inches (30.5 x 30.5 x 53.3 cm) of duffel bag space, and 37.5 x 21 inches (95.3 x 53.3 cm) of garment hanging space. It has 50L of packing capacity, yet weighs only 3.4 lbs (1.5 kg) when empty. And, compartmentalization is made easy with this bag, as both the exterior and interior offer nifty pockets and pouches, including shoe and tie segments.
Overall, if you enjoy being the envy of everyone who sees you toting your luggage, you won’t go wrong with this model from Bolosta.
Hi Xeandra Naicker, your blog post really resonated with me as a fellow enthusiast in this subject. I’ve found that approach you mentioned particularly useful in my personal experiences as well. However, have you considered the potential impact of ‘A’ on this? Also, I think it’s worth exploring ‘B’ aspect too. It may offer a different perspective for your readers.
I remember when I first encountered this topic, it was quite a game-changer for me, especially in context of ‘C’. Do you think there could be an overlap in these areas? I’d love to hear your thoughts on this.
Keep up the good work! Looking forward to more insightful posts from you.