6 Best Duffel Bags We Tested While Traveling (2026)

It’s not so much an actual duffel bag as “the world’s first true wide-mouth packaging system,” as Rux calls it, but it’s nonetheless an impressive piece of equipment from a company known for its modular equipment transportation systems. Much like a collapsible version of the popular 70L storage container, the Duffel Box starts completely flat, but the sides lift up and the patent-pending top rolls up to form a box that stays open on its own. No zippers are involved in its construction, but there are multiple straps, panels, and pockets, and you’ll probably need to watch an instructional YouTube video to fully utilize all the features. However, the beauty of this bag is that it can be just about anything you want it to be. Long-term storage, luggage, gearbox and even a backpack. Everything is possible with the straps and dividers included in the right places.

Over the past four months, my family has used it as a traditional gym bag, a storage box, and currently a portable equipment organizer for my son’s club soccer team. It’s been stepped on, rained on, and thrown into wagons and vehicle trunks, with no scratches on the 105D nylon Gridstop fabric. (Though it did get stuck in a downpour once, and I will say I’m not sure I’d quantify the fabric as fully waterproof, closer to water-resistant.) Attachment points along the interior walls allow it to integrate with Rux’s line of accessories and packing bags (sold separately), in which we currently keep bibs and goalie gear.

The Duffel Box will officially go on sale on March 16 in two sizes, 55L and 75L; in the photo, it’s the 55L. Note that a “Plus” version will include a removable universal shoulder strap, which connects to attachment points on the exterior, for an additional $25. —Kat Merck