What Is a Weekend Bag?

Since 1987 we've been perfecting the art of lightweight travel and innovative bag design. Combining functionality and style, we've curated a collection of bags for every moment.

With the ideal weekend bag, you can be ready for overnight stays and weekend getaways in an instant. Discover what makes a weekend bag great and how to pack an overnight bag for any adventure.

A weekender bag is your go-to bag for packing your clothes and belongings for an overnight stay or weekend trip. Usually bigger than a day pack but smaller than a suitcase, they are ideal for carrying your essentials while travelling light.

How Big Should a Weekend Bag Be?

So, how big is a weekender bag? And which size and design works best for you? There's no right or wrong answer here. Generally, a weekender should have a capacity of at least 20 litres. However, several factors must be considered when determining the ideal size of a weekend bag. Do you prefer to travel light with the bare necessities? Or do you like to come prepared with outfit changes and extras?

A great weekend bag should have enough space for your clothes, toiletry bag and other travel accessories. It should also be durable enough to withstand the demands of your journey and active lifestyle. Zippered pockets are handy for keeping your valuables in check, like your passport, keys and credit cards.

Once you've decided on your travel style and how much space you need, it's time to explore our weekend bag options.

What Makes a Good Weekend Bag for Kipling

So, what is the best overnight bag? Discover our go-to weekend bags from our Kipling collections in various sizes, styles and colours. Find a travel bag with the right capacity, features and aesthetic for you.

Argus

Our Argus duffle bag is available in sizes S and M, designed with smart organisation in mind. It features multiple zippered and mesh pockets. Haul it with the connecting handles or carry it with the shoulder strap. The Argus S features a dedicated compartment for your shoes with a separate opening.

Jonis

If you're looking for versatility, the Jonis bag might be your match. Haul this 2-in-1 weekender bag like a duffle bag or carry it like a backpack with shoulder straps. This convertible luggage option comes in sizes S and M. Both sizes feature a built-in 15" laptop sleeve for keeping your tech safe in transit.

Weekender bag vs duffle bag

"Weekender bag" does not refer to a specific type of bag. However, duffle bags are one of the most popular styles of weekend bags. They offer plenty of space and pockets, to keep your belongings organised plus the possibility to carry them by the handles or shoulder straps.

A large backpack could also be a suitable weekend bag if it provides the space and function for carrying your overnight gear. However, if you need to bring with you a spare pair of shoes, the duffle bag might be more convenient.

Weekender bag vs suitcase

If you're getting off somewhere for the weekend or for a short trip you may have to decide between a duffle bag or a suitcase. Duffle bags are a lightweight option that takes up less space in the cabin or in the car. However, a suitcase can be more secure for your items, especially when you use a hardshell luggage.

A duffel bag can be a perfect choice when you need to optimise space, pack light and don't have too many fragile items with you. However, if you do need to pack heavier items you can pick out a cabin-size suitcase that still fits the airline size requirements. Kipling wheeled luggage options come in various styles and colours.

What to Pack in a Weekend Bag?

When it comes to packing your weekend bag, you'll want to bring your overnight essentials without overdoing it. To avoid weighing yourself down on your travels, pack enough outfits for each day.

Packing hacks can help lighten your load and prepare you for a stress-free getaway. Here are some of our go-to tips for how to pack for a short trip:

  • Bring your toiletry bag with travel-size bottles with enough supplies for the duration of your trip

  • Wear your bulkiest shoes or sneakers on travel days so they don't take up precious bag space

  • Roll your clothes to save space and prevent creasing

  • Stash small items and valuables in the pockets of your bag to keep them safe in transit

  • Organise the inside of your bag by stashing your stuff in smaller bags or packing cubes

  • Bring a lightweight laundry bag to separate your dirty clothes from your clean ones

  • Place the heaviest items in the bottom of the bag so they don't squash your lighter items

  • Ensure your liquids are in a separate bag and fit the airport size requirements if you're flying

  • Plan your outfits for each day to avoid overpacking and bringing unnecessary stuff

Choose Your Ultimate Weekend Bag

By now, you should have a better idea of what is the best weekender bag for you. Get ahead of your packing game and be ready for spontaneous nights away and upcoming adventures. Pick out your new weekend bag from Kipling today in a style, colour or pattern you adore.

Do you need luggage for longer trips? Take a look at our large suitcase collection, which has all the space you need for extended stays.

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