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The Best Folding Travel Bags for Every Trip, Tested and Reviewed

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When it comes to smart travel, a Folding Travel Bag is a game-changer. As someone who’s constantly on the go, I always pack a backup foldable travel bag. These bags are incredibly space-efficient, taking up almost no room in your main luggage, yet they unfold to become incredibly useful throughout your journey. Whether you need an extra day bag for excursions, a spacious tote for shopping trips, or even a reliable personal item to carry home souvenirs, a folding travel bag is an invaluable travel companion.

Even beyond being a backup, a foldable travel bag can serve as your primary luggage solution. Their inherent lightweight design makes them easier to carry, and when not in use, they conveniently fold away for compact storage. The versatility and practicality of these bags are undeniable, making them a must-have for any traveler.

To help you navigate the options and choose the best folding travel bag for your needs, Travel + Leisure editors rigorously tested 12 different models. We conducted thorough lab and real-world tests to identify the top performers. Our comprehensive guide features nine of the best folding travel bags, ranging from belt bags to rolling suitcases, all of which excelled in our evaluations. Keep scrolling to discover the foldable bags that made the cut and find the perfect one for your next adventure.

Our Top Picks

Best Backpack

Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack

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PHOTO: Amazon

$43 at Amazon $45 at Backcountry View on Osprey.com

Why We Love It: It’s incredibly lightweight, yet offers a substantial 18-liter capacity.

What to Consider: It lacks padding and has minimal organizational features.

If your travel plans include daytime excursions like hiking or city exploration, a lightweight, packable backpack is essential. The Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack is an excellent, budget-friendly option. Weighing only 5.3 ounces, this backpack is incredibly pliable due to its minimal pockets and light padding. While it’s not designed for carrying heavy loads for extended periods, our tests showed it’s perfect as a day bag for essentials such as a light jacket, sunscreen, insect repellent, wallet, and a small water bottle.

“This backpack is unbelievably light – you almost forget you’re wearing it,” noted T+L testing editor Jackie Cucco. “It packs down into a tiny square that feels as light as a feather, taking up virtually no space. You could pack this anywhere, even in your pocket.”

Despite its seemingly thin nylon fabric, it proves to be quite durable and resistant to wear and tear. The main compartment features easy-pull zippers and reveals a small zippered pouch and a key clip inside. Two stretchy slip pockets on the exterior are perfect for water bottles or shoes.

The Details: 7.48 x 8.66 x 16.54 inches (unfolded) | 5.3 ounces | 40D high-tenacity nylon

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Best Tote

Away The Packable Carryall

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PHOTO: Away

$75 at Away Travel

Why We Love It: This water-resistant 43-liter tote is perfect for beach days or poolside trips.

What to Consider: It’s made from a thin, unstructured nylon material.

Whether you need a backup personal item, a water-resistant beach tote, or a spacious weekender bag, the Away Packable Carryall is up to the task. With a generous 43-liter capacity, it comfortably holds clothes, towels, books, and even a laptop, thanks to its sturdy carrying straps. The bag’s unstructured design means it won’t stand on its own, however. If you plan to use the trolley sleeve, it’s best to pack heavier items in the center to ensure it stays securely on your suitcase. Also, be mindful of sharp items like pens or tweezers, as they could potentially damage the thin fabric.

When not in use, this nylon bag folds down to approximately the size of a photograph and weighs a mere half-pound, making it easy to store as a backup in your purse or car. The pouch it folds into can be repurposed to hold small essentials like tissues, lip balm, or gum when you’re using the tote.

The Details: 15 x 19.7 x 9 inches (unfolded), 6.3 x 4.3 x 2.4 inches (folded) | 8.8 ounces | Recycled nylon

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Best Duffel

Tumi Voyageur Just in Case Duffel

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PHOTO: Tumi

$195 at Amazon View on Zappos View on Tumi.com

Why We Love It: The water and stain-resistant material is both lightweight and durable.

What to Consider: It’s more expensive than other options on this list.

The Tumi Voyageur Just in Case Duffel stands out even among non-packable bags, offering an impressive four carrying options: crossbody with a long strap, over-the-shoulder with medium straps, by hand with short straps, and hands-free using the suitcase handle strap. A clever design feature is the storage pouch that snaps inside the duffel when fully opened, acting as an extra interior pocket perfect for keys, wallets, headphones, and other small items. This prevents the pouch from getting lost or becoming unused space. Two exterior side pockets offer additional storage.

Despite its lightweight and compact foldable design, this nylon duffel is surprisingly spacious. We packed four dresses, two pairs of shoes, pajamas, and a toiletry bag with room to spare. Ideal as a gym bag or personal item for flights, it’s also suitable for overnight stays or weekend trips with concise packing. While it’s a higher-end option, the durable fabric justifies the investment. You can even personalize it with an embroidered monogram.

The Details: 10.3 x 18.9 x 10.3 inches (unfolded) | 1.1 pounds | Nylon

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The 8 Best Packable Backpacks, Tested and Reviewed

Best Suitcase

Lipault Foldable Plume Cabin

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PHOTO: Lipault

View on Lipault-usa.com

Why We Love It: This foldable carry-on suitcase can be conveniently packed inside a larger checked suitcase.

What to Consider: It has two wheels, which may be less maneuverable than four-wheel options.

For avid souvenir collectors, the Lipault Foldable Plume Cabin is a dream. This extra carry-on suitcase is designed to securely transport your travel finds. With a simple push of a button, it fully compresses to fit inside your checked luggage, perfect for packing on your outbound journey and using on the return flight loaded with treasures. Home storage is also a breeze thanks to its minimal folded bulk. Despite its packable nature, we were able to fit three sweaters, a dress, two pairs of jeans, a jacket, a toiletry bag, and loafers into this lightweight rolling suitcase, and it was easy to lift into overhead bins. Three interior zippered pockets and a large exterior pocket help keep smaller items and shoes organized.

The two-wheel design contributes to its collapsibility. In our lab tests, it remained fairly easy to maneuver around obstacles, though some travelers might prefer four wheels. The softside coated fabric proved durable, and the wheels and handles are made from robust plastic built to last. Despite its durability, it maintains a sophisticated look compared to more rugged bags.

The Details: 8.7 x 21.7 x 14.6 inches (unfolded) | 5.2 pounds | Nylon

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Best Sling Bag

Paravel Fold-Up Belt Bag

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PHOTO: Shopbop

$35 $25 at Amazon View on Shopbop.com View on Tourparavel.com

Why We Love It: The design is both compact and surprisingly sturdy.

What to Consider: The bag’s sporty aesthetic may not suit formal occasions.

A belt bag is an excellent travel accessory, offering a lightweight, hands-free way to keep essentials close. This foldable version from Paravel is exceptionally compact, easily fitting into a small backpack pocket. When folded, it’s smaller than a notebook and fits in the palm of your hand. Crafted from nylon made from seven recycled plastic bottles, the material is durable enough for hikes and outdoor adventures, while also holding its shape well. Personalize it with embroidery for a unique touch.

The Details: 8 x 5 x 2 inches (unfolded), 3.75 x 5 x 1 inches (folded) | 4.96 ounces | Nylon

  • [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-paravel-fold-up-belt-bag-taylor-fox-17-47c845b8230b4dd1afdccac26b2a45f7.jpeg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/FY3U1CaMEBNFvYwgtOacT-X1oFU=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-paravel-fold-up-belt-bag-taylor-fox-17-47c845b8230b4dd1afdccac26b2a45f7.jpeg)
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  • [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-paravel-fold-up-belt-bag-taylor-fox-08-6aa32979556a4b2ba37585bed77bdd49.jpeg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/MiK00TUc4Cv5P5fIbVjO__p73Dg=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-paravel-fold-up-belt-bag-taylor-fox-08-6aa32979556a4b2ba37585bed77bdd49.jpeg)
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  • [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-paravel-fold-up-belt-bag-taylor-fox-15-291a2f18c1c844a2a05291d1646f9ce1.jpeg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/Dq_SvB92ydfdhaGs6JiCDETvYAg=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-paravel-fold-up-belt-bag-taylor-fox-15-291a2f18c1c844a2a05291d1646f9ce1.jpeg)
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  • [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-paravel-fold-up-belt-bag-taylor-fox-04-d7f64fd7d6a2480bbcae2f5d768dfbdb.jpeg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/WFCCvsluRh1c4KbLGyjrRP-gudY=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-paravel-fold-up-belt-bag-taylor-fox-04-d7f64fd7d6a2480bbcae2f5d768dfbdb.jpeg)
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  • [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-paravel-fold-up-belt-bag-taylor-fox-13-62f36c898ddd4c1da0407bf5587edb86.jpeg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/xnTd4LDXp5CEBvluKLH2shRwQZ4=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-paravel-fold-up-belt-bag-taylor-fox-13-62f36c898ddd4c1da0407bf5587edb86.jpeg)
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  • [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-paravel-fold-up-belt-bag-taylor-fox-03-4efbfd5827e04850b0f5a7cc419bebcb.jpeg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/UZszdtmGiEppxpns3P2GOaXV3mQ=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-paravel-fold-up-belt-bag-taylor-fox-03-4efbfd5827e04850b0f5a7cc419bebcb.jpeg)
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  • [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-paravel-fold-up-belt-bag-taylor-fox-02-d83e90eecd794d97916fd5cc8ba489c2.jpeg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/hPV4EguD9btnt4k6evIjLUySvnU=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-paravel-fold-up-belt-bag-taylor-fox-02-d83e90eecd794d97916fd5cc8ba489c2.jpeg)
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  • [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-paravel-fold-up-belt-bag-taylor-fox-01-bb72aaff878948649123b31dfa86b869.jpeg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/5L5Ii3taPUAd–hiorXeZty5zrk=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-paravel-fold-up-belt-bag-taylor-fox-01-bb72aaff878948649123b31dfa86b869.jpeg)
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Best Mini Backpack

Paravel Mini Fold-up Backpack

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PHOTO: Paravel

$55 $39 at Amazon View on Tourparavel.com View on Maisonette.com

Why We Love It: This lightweight, water-resistant bag boasts well-considered design features.

What to Consider: Adjusting the straps can be tricky while wearing the backpack.

Some folding bags can be challenging to repack, but the Paravel Mini Fold-up Backpack is refreshingly simple – just two folds and a zip for easy storage. This makes it the ideal just-in-case companion for travel, errands, or hikes. Made from water-resistant nylon, this compact rucksack is both high-quality and lightweight. We were particularly impressed with the zippered pockets both inside and out—a rare find in folding bags.

Another highlight is the super-soft straps. In our lab tests, we loaded it with two t-shirts, a water bottle, hand sanitizer, a wallet, and keys. Even when fully packed, the wide straps remained comfortable without any chafing or rubbing. Available in six colors with contrasting straps and gold-tone hardware, this stylish carryall can also be monogrammed, like many Paravel bags.

The Details: 10 x 12 x 6 inches (unfolded), 4.5 x 5 x 2 inches (folded) | 7.04 ounces | Recycled nylon

  • [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-detail-paravel-mini-fold-up-backpack-tamara-3195.jpg-56dfdbe1a7d242629272203fb04175ad.jpg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/3duLduuxXJ80imsnxOhV3KZxGdg=/fit-in/1500×4376/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-detail-paravel-mini-fold-up-backpack-tamara-3195.jpg-56dfdbe1a7d242629272203fb04175ad.jpg)
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The 12 Best Personal Item Bags, Tested and Reviewed

Best Expandable

Longchamp Le Pliage Expandable Travel Bag

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PHOTO: Longchamp

View on Amazon $285 at Nordstrom View on Longchamp.com

Why We Love It: This chic two-in-one bag offers multiple carrying styles and expansion capability.

What to Consider: Organizational features are limited to two small open-top pockets.

Longchamp’s iconic Le Pliage line is celebrated for its simple, practical, and elegant designs. This expandable version excelled in our tests due to its ability to quickly change from 14 inches to 20.5 inches in height. In its compact form, it serves as a handheld purse (with leather handles) or a crossbody bag (with an adjustable shoulder strap). Unzip the middle section to transform it into a stylish tote and gain an extra 20 liters of packing space. The fully expanded 50-liter bag is spacious enough for a four-day trip or more. The only drawback is the limited interior organization, which can be easily addressed with packing cubes.

While Longchamp bags are a splurge, T+L editors who are longtime fans vouch for their durability and longevity. The nylon material is easily wipeable, and the leather trim is expertly crafted. The dual functionality of this design makes it a worthwhile investment.

The Details: 17.75 x 9 x 14-20.5 inches (unfolded) | 1.56 pounds | Nylon with leather details

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Biggest Capacity

Caraa Baby Hospital Bag

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PHOTO: Caraa

View on Caraa.co View on Buybuy BABY

Why We Love It: This stylish duffel offers an impressive 66.6 liters of space.

What to Consider: The large main compartment lacks internal organization.

Despite its name, the Caraa Baby Hospital Bag is incredibly versatile and perfect for more than just hospital stays. This spacious duffel is an excellent choice for weekend trips and beyond. T+L editorial director Jamie Hergenrader is a huge fan, noting, “I initially used this as my hospital bag, but it’s become my go-to travel bag ever since.” With over 66 liters of packing capacity, she easily fit everything needed for a baby’s weekend trip, including outfits, bibs, toiletries, toys, diapers, blankets, and more. We also appreciate the tie straps that allow it to be carried as a backpack or duffel.

The water-repellent organic cotton shell is remarkably durable, withstanding being squeezed into car trunks without any scuffs. Conveniently, it’s also machine washable. While some internal compartments would be ideal, it does fold down compactly to about the size of a travel pillow.

The Details: 12 x 24 x 14 inches (unfolded) | 2.2 pounds | Organic cotton with vegan leather detailing

  • [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-caraa-baby-hospital-bag-jamie-hergenrader-2-453319e6cdfd4ed8a139d75f0e0ac39f.jpeg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/1UQke-eQ97yNnUzHqR-aQUCZOj4=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-caraa-baby-hospital-bag-jamie-hergenrader-2-453319e6cdfd4ed8a139d75f0e0ac39f.jpeg)
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  • [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-caraa-baby-hospital-bag-jamie-hergenrader-5-d664eb4ac13546acb60fe8f2cb420f29.jpeg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/-TJriyU-GA6DOhCYiWuC6IBlAoA=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-caraa-baby-hospital-bag-jamie-hergenrader-5-d664eb4ac13546acb60fe8f2cb420f29.jpeg)
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  • [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-caraa-baby-hospital-bag-jamie-hergenrader-3-a41996d82b6244678713cf49a18c6179.jpeg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/gEb4SsEjLJZmnSISyfm0UDw6akk=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-caraa-baby-hospital-bag-jamie-hergenrader-3-a41996d82b6244678713cf49a18c6179.jpeg)
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Best Budget

Baggu Nylon Ripstop Tote

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PHOTO: Baggu

$36 at Amazon View on Baggu.com $14 at Urban Outfitters

Why We Love It: This durable tote can handle up to 50 pounds of weight.

What to Consider: It wrinkles considerably when folded.

Baggu’s signature reusable tote is a T+L editor favorite for both travel and everyday use. “I love shopping when I travel, and inevitably end up with more items than fit in my usual purse,” explains associate editor Anna Popp. “This foldable tote from Baggu is always in my packable bag collection because it fits into virtually any purse or luggage without taking up valuable space.” The nylon material is remarkably durable, lasting over five years of consistent use. While it does wrinkle easily, making it less elegant, this zipperless bag is ideal as a just-in-case shopping tote for your suitcase, car, or purse, folding down flat to the size of your hand.

The Details: 25.5 x 15.5 x 6 inches (unfolded), 5 x 5 inches (folded) | 1.9 ounces | Nylon

  • [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-baggu-nylon-ripstop-tote-anna-popp-06-52f8fc19105c4eb281fad33a08b1b044.jpeg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/bUbH_KY51MB4VkHmzlc2f6GuQRk=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-baggu-nylon-ripstop-tote-anna-popp-06-52f8fc19105c4eb281fad33a08b1b044.jpeg)
    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure

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    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure

  • [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-baggu-nylon-ripstop-tote-anna-popp-07-4844a8a0ef5542cdbd09fd9f0cb7cc02.jpeg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/B3kcyCb6neXG92odlodtaXuIW4U=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-baggu-nylon-ripstop-tote-anna-popp-07-4844a8a0ef5542cdbd09fd9f0cb7cc02.jpeg)
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    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure

  • [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-baggu-nylon-ripstop-tote-anna-popp-03-d58303e07b5d465ab1b600d6e98cb37e.jpeg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/NxbHQnk-yD_pBv3PZSv2vZR8BHI=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-baggu-nylon-ripstop-tote-anna-popp-03-d58303e07b5d465ab1b600d6e98cb37e.jpeg)
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The 10 Best Convertible Backpack Totes of 2025, Tested and Reviewed

Others We Liked

Three additional packable bags we tested had notable features that may suit specific traveler needs, but didn’t quite reach our top picks in overall performance.

[:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-tumi-voyageur-just-in-case-tote-morgan-ashley-parker-01-765661da7d6a49aaa3c6aefffea7d0b2.jpeg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/7nQGrTRFiJ_AlUMcfW_eFSnlukE=/1500×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-tumi-voyageur-just-in-case-tote-morgan-ashley-parker-01-765661da7d6a49aaa3c6aefffea7d0b2.jpeg)

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[:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/TAL-paravel-fold-up-bag-nick-kova-00016-b9228437c49a435c8534a8c76746e7b8.jpeg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/4HRGPdzCkjT4y-jCTBVdb5hIMBg=/750×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/TAL-paravel-fold-up-bag-nick-kova-00016-b9228437c49a435c8534a8c76746e7b8.jpeg)

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Our Testing Process

To provide the best recommendations for foldable bags, T+L editors put each bag through rigorous testing in both lab and real-world settings. In our lab, we evaluated each bag’s foldability, paying close attention to zipper smoothness and the likelihood of wrinkling in the expanded bag. Durability tests included stuffing, pulling, and dropping bags to assess their resistance to wear and tear. We also packed each bag to ensure it could easily accommodate its intended contents and then carried it to evaluate comfort.

Additionally, we used these bags on actual trips to gain deeper insights into their performance in various travel scenarios. Testers will continue to use the products and gather feedback for at least six months post-initial testing to further evaluate long-term durability.

Tips for Buying Foldable Travel Bags

Consider your capacity needs

Before choosing a foldable travel bag, determine the required capacity based on your planned activities. For everyday use, prioritize smaller styles that fold compactly and serve as backups. Hiking or outdoor adventures demand more rugged and comfortable options that can resist moisture and abrasion from rough terrains.

If you plan to use the foldable bag for weekend getaways, consider a duffel or tote with enough space for clothing, shoes, and toiletries. For longer trips where you anticipate returning with more than you started with, a foldable rolling carry-on suitcase is an excellent choice to pack within your checked bag.

Look for easy folding and portability

Beyond capacity, a bag’s folded compactness is crucial. If you need a just-in-case bag for daily use, ensure it’s small and light enough to fit in a purse or coat pocket. Ease of expansion and contraction is also important, so you’re not struggling when in a hurry. Bulkier items like rolling suitcases should fold flat for convenient storage.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What’s the best way to fold a foldable travel bag?

    Before folding, ensure your bag is completely empty. Close all zippers while expelling any trapped air, then lay the bag on a flat surface. Fold straps flat against the bag to maintain smoothness. Carefully fold according to manufacturer instructions, utilizing existing creases to minimize wrinkles. Avoid overstuffing and handle zippers gently.

  • Can a foldable bag be used as a carry-on or personal item?

    Yes, foldable travel bags come in various sizes and styles and can function as carry-ons or personal items, provided they meet airline size restrictions when expanded. Airline regulations vary, so always verify with your carrier before travel.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Talia Ergas, a seasoned style writer and avid traveler, often travels with a foldable travel bag. The Away Packable Carryall is her personal favorite as a beach tote or backup bag. For this article, she dedicated hours to researching each product and reviewing T+L editors’ testing notes to understand each bag’s performance in both lab and real-world conditions.

The Best Lightweight Luggage, Tested and Reviewed

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Edited by Jasmine Grant

Jasmine Grant

Jasmine is a senior editor at Travel + Leisure, specializing in luggage and travel accessories. Jasmine has over a decade of experience as a writer and editor in lifestyle and travel media. In her spare time, she’s likely planning her next trip to a Caribbean island.

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