The 14 Best Personal-Item Bags For Every Traveler, According to Popsugar Editors

Narwey Foldable Travel Duffel Bag ($14, originally $17)

The Narwey Foldable Travel Duffel Bag is a foldable and affordable travel option that comes in a ton of different colors and prints. It has two top-handle carrying straps, a detachable shoulder strap, a trolley sleeve, and an external zipper pocket. The bag is made from a thick waterproof material that can hold its shape. Plus, it's a bestseller on Amazon.

Pros: Lightweight and budget-friendly.

Cons: Strap and zipper quality isn't the most durable.

Material: Polyester.

Dimensions: 13" height x 18" width x 6.3" depth

Colorways: 20+

Who it's best for: The frequent traveler.

Extras: It's great if you're flying Spirit or Frontier Airlines.

What Reviewers Say: "I was very hesitant at first when I received my package, as you can see it was almost the size of my hand. After unwrapping it I was really surprised by how spacious it was! I put about four days worth of clothes with two pairs of shoes and there was still some space left!"

Lubardy Travel Backpack ($31)

If you're looking for a durable backpack you can use for weekend trips, the Lubardy Travel Backpack is a great option and it's waterproof. It has a spacious main compartment that can fit a few outfits and a pair of shoes, and it comes with three packing cubes. Plus, it has a laptop compartment, a wet pocket for toiletries and laundry, and a side pocket for a water bottle or an umbrella. The zippers are sturdy and reinforced, so you can keep squishing items in without the bag exploding. It comes in five colors.

Pros: It can fit up to 10 outfits and meets carry-on requirements perfectly.

Cons: The zipper quality is questionable.

Material: Water-resistant fabric.

Dimensions: 20" height x 13" width x 8"depth

Colorways: 6

Who it's best for: The college student and weekend traveler.

What Reviewers Say: "Used as my personal item on American Airlines! This bag fit so much! (3 swimsuits, 2 pairs of jeans, 2 pairs of jean shorts, 2 pairs of athletic shorts, pair of leggings, pair of sweats, 3 t-shirts, 2 tank tops, multiple underwear/socks/bras, and the smaller packing cube full of shower supplies/makeup/jewerly). Comfortable to carry and didn't feel too heavy when full! Totally worth purchasing for travel!"

Amazon Basics Underseat Carry-On ($47, originally $50)

The Amazon Basics Underseat Carry-On is perfect for the traveler on the go. For starters, unlike most weekender bags and duffels, this one has wheels. You can carry this with its top handle or roll it through the airport. It's spacious on the inside with plenty of pockets and sections to stay organized, including a spot for your shoes. This under-seat carry-on comes in navy blue too.

Pros: Perfect for underseat storage and spacious.

Cons: It's smaller than it looks.

Material: Ballistic nylon.

Dimensions: 13.4" height x 14.2" wide x 9.5" depth

Colorways: 3

Who it's best for: Great for the everyday traveler.

What Reviewers Say: "Great bag for a quick trip. It fit 3 days of outfits , including a sweatshirt and pair of shoes, plus a few extras just in case, the carry-on liquids bag, a small cosmetic bag, charger, a few books, and some small accessories and zipped shut with no problem. It rolled fine throughout the airport and it was pretty easy to manipulate the handle, although it did get stuck a time or two when it wiggled and one of the little tabs came through the hole when it wasn't supposed to."

Béis The Mini Weekender ($98)

The Béis The Mini Weekender is the smaller version of the bestselling Weekender Bag, which is also an editor favorite. It can be used as an everyday tote, but it's also perfect for overnight trips or as a personal item on flights. This personal-item bag has a padded, built-in laptop sleeve; a bottom compartment for shoes, hair tools, and toiletries; and a trolley pass-through sleeve. Plus, the inside has a large zip pocket and two small slip pockets. It has a top handle and a padded longer strap. It comes in eight colors, including beige, black, navy, olive green, maple brown, pink, and more, but some sell out fast.

Pros: Glides effortlessly and comfortable to carry.

Cons: Some customers found a faulty zipper.

Material: Poly canvas, vegan leather, nylon, and zinc alloy.

Dimensions: 16" height x 16" width x 8" depth

Colorways: 6

Who it's best for: The weekend traveler and everyday commuter.

Extras: It comes in two sizes, mini and regular.

Editor Quote: "It is ideal for any traveler, whether you're a frequent flyer or someone who goes on the occasional vacation. . . . The bag fits the right amount of clothing and necessities for a three-day trip, including a few extra outfits if you pack smart. Another clever feature is the expandable, clamshell-like zip-top opening of the top compartment. The bag opens up quite wide, so you can easily see and access your stuff and take out your electronics . . . for security." — Anvita Reddy, former assistant editor, Shopping

Read more in her in-depth review of the Beis Mini Weekender Bag.

Béis The Commuter Duffle ($158)

Although we're huge fans of the bestselling Béis Mini Weekender Bag, its Commuter Duffle is a worthy competitor. It has a capacity of 24.2 liters, and comes in two classic colors, black and beige. The bag is designed for the busybody who's constantly on the go; it has two slip pockets on either side for water bottles or umbrellas and a zipper pocket in the front. Plus, the interior has the perfect blend of spaciousness and organization. Not only is there a padded laptop pocket, but also four elastic pockets (two of which are mesh), as well as a zipper pocket.

This bag maintains is sleek silhouette and crisp look with five metal feet that let it stand on its own. It's made from a water resistant nylon, but it has vegan leather top handles and a padded leather adjustable strap.

Pros: Stylish design and comes with a key leash.

Cons: Some would prefer a side-to-side strap.

Material: Nylon, PU trim, and polyester.

Dimensions: 12" height x 21.5" width x 9" depth

Colorways: 1

Who it's best for: The weekend traveler and everyday commuter.

Editor Quote: "I love how sleek the bag looks and the fact that its incredibly lightweight. I took it as my plus-one on a recent trip to Sedona and managed to fit everything and more into the accessory — including seven outfits, two pairs of shoes, my toiletry bag, portable steamer, and more." — Kyley Warren, former assistant editor, Shopping

Read more about The Commuter Duffle in our review of the Béis Commuter collection.

Lululemon Wunderlust Backpack 25L ($158)

If you're looking for something durable, the Lululemon Wunderlust Backpack is an editor-backed pick that's not only personal-item approved, but also hiking approved. It's made from a water-repellent fabric, so spills, scuffs, and weather won't be an issue. The versatile backpack has plenty of storage space with pockets galore, including exterior pockets for water bottles and umbrellas, interior pockets that can help keep dirty and clean clothes separate, adjustable exterior straps that can hold a jacket or a yoga mat, a padded laptop sleeve, and it even has a trolley sleeve. The drawstring opening is ideal for easy access, but it's kept secure with the buckle closures. It comes in black and army green.

Pros: Water-repellent fabric and great storage.

Cons: The water bottle sleeves are small.

Material: Nylon and polyester.

Dimensions: 14.2" height x 20.1" width x 6.1"

Colorways: 3

Who it's best for: Frequent travelers and hikers.

Editor Quote: "My typical backpack load includes two books, a small notebook, a laptop, a bag of chargers, a case of toiletries, a pouch of miscellaneous personal-care items, a water bottle, an extra jacket, hand sanitizer, sunglasses, and a spare wallet. And because the main compartment closes with a drawstring, you can really push the limits of the amount of stuff you can cram in. . . . After getting caught in a surprise downpour while on top of a mountain in Brasov, Romania, I was soaked — but everything inside my backpack was perfectly dry." — Lauren Mazzo, former senior editor, Fitness

Read her in-depth review of the Lululemon Wunderlust Backpack for more.

Dagne Dover Landon Large Neoprene Carryall ($160)

Dagne Dover's Landon Large Neoprene Carryall is soft and durable, perfect for squishing under a seat. It may look compact at first, but it has an expandable design that can fit several outfits, slim shoes and hair tools, and more.

It comes with plenty of accessories and compartments that will keep your travel essentials organized, like a laptop sleeve, a shoe/laundry bag, and a removable mesh pouch for your chargers and cords. There's even an easy-access pocket perfect for your phone, passport, or boarding pass.

Plus, it has a crossbody strap, top handles, and two side pockets that are perfect for water bottles and shoes. It comes in nine colors, including black, heather gray, washed lilac, camel tan, navy blue, and a dark moss green.

Pros: Lightweight and great storage space.

Material: Neoprene.

Dimensions: 11" height x 16.5" width x 9" depth

Colorways: 9

Who it's best for: The frequent gymgoer.

Extras: It comes in various sizes, from small to extra large.

What Reviewers Say: "I bring this for every trip. Whether it be a weekend trip or an international one where this can be used as my personal bag. It fits so much and is so chic. Never have I loved a duffel so much."

Calpak Diaper Tote Bag With Laptop Sleeve ($178)

Calpak is a beloved travel brand, so it's no surprise they've created a bestselling diaper tote that works for plane rides. Available in oatmeal (pictured here), black, and hazelnut, the design is crafted from recycled nylon and recycled polyester and even has a 16-inch laptop sleeve, plus a luggage trolley sleeve with a back pocket for maximum storage. There are also two insulated bottle pockets and a dedicated baby wipe compartment.

Pros: Soft fabric and easy to clean.

Cons: The padded laptop sleeve doesn't fit all laptops.

Material: Recycled nylon and polyester.

Dimensions: 13.5" height x 20.75" width x 7" depth

Colorways: 3

Who it's best for: Moms.

Extras: Has all the organization compartments for various needs, including bottle insulation.

What Reviewers Say: "Becoming a mom of 3 soon (newborn, 2 year, 4 year old) and wanted just one lightweight big bag to carry everything for 3 kids. Took the bag out on a trial run and I can say it's what I was looking for. Pockets for everything, lightweight (this was the most important to me), easily wipeable, and not hideous to look at. After I grow out of the diaper stage, I plan on continuing to use it like a weekender bag for trips."

Calpak Hue Mini Carry-On Luggage ($185)

The Calpak Hue Mini Carry-On Luggage doesn't compromise on style or functionality. This personal-item carry-on bag has a polycarbonate hard-shell exterior that can withstand scuffs and bumps. The cool thing with this bag is that it opens upright, so you'll be able to easily see and access everything in your bag. It has an interior divider with pockets and compression straps to keep your over-packed bag organized. It has a TSA-accepted lock, a collapsible luggage handle, and four 360-degree spinner wheels for a smooth, upright roll. Choose between a core six colors and three limited edition colors. And, yes, this small rolling bag fits beneath most airline seats.

Pros: TSA-approved lock and favorable price.

Cons: Doesn't fit under every airline's seat.

Material: Polycarbonate shell

Dimensions: 14" height x 16" width x 9" depth

Colorways: 10 (5 limited)

Who it's best for: Great for the weekend traveler and kids.

What Reviewers Say: "This was my first piece of luggage bought from Calpak and I am super impressed. This mini carry-on is so cute and small yet when you open it up it has all these pockets and a zippered compartment in the lid."

Nex Carryall Bag ($207)

Our editor loves the quality of Nex's Journey Weekender Bag (which is pictured above), but found it too big to be a proper personal-item carry-on bag, so she recommends the smaller Carryall Bag. It's made from the same materials our editor raves about in her review, including water-resistant microfiber, leather, and a soft, velvety interior. The Carryall Bag is a minimalist, sleek option which fits about two to three outfits and your essentials.

Although it doesn't have a front pocket, it has a concealed pocket near the top where you can store passports, IDs, flight tickets, and other essentials. It has a padded laptop sleeve and a pocket dedicated to storing your AirTag or luggage tracking device. This bag also has padded handles, an adjustable shoulder strap, and a trolley sleeve. It comes in three colors: amber, black, and tan.

Pros: Sleek design and ample storage.

Cons: None.

Material: Vegan microfiber leather.

Dimensions: 12.8" height x 17.3" width x 5" depth

Colorways: 3

Who it's best for: The ultimate overpacker.

Extras: It fits 7-8 outfits and features a detachable, water-resistant Pod that can be used independently.

Editor Quote: "It exud[es] luxury with its dirt- and water-resistant microfiber leather exterior and velvety-soft interior . . . This next-level interior features a smooth material the brand calls VelvetWeave that offers protection from the bumps of traveling — it's like I'm carrying my essentials in a giant jewelry box. It is also water-, bacterial-, and mold-resistant . . . Although I was skeptical about how the white leather would turn out after going through plenty of roughhousing, I was pleasantly surprised to find only a few scuff marks, which can be easily buffed away with a wet towel or Magic Eraser sponge." — AR

Read more in our review of Nex's luggage.

Calpak Ambeur Mini Carry-On Luggage ($215)

If you're in the market for something durable, sleek, and glam, Calpak's Ambeur Mini Carry-On Luggage is designed to fit underneath most airplane seats. The best part of this bag is that it's equipped with 360-degree spinner wheels and a collapsible luggage handle, so you can get through security and to your gate without having to carry the actual weight of your bag. This mini carry-on bag is a dream for organization; it opens upright and has a divider with multiple pockets. It comes in gold, rose gold, copper, and black.

Pros: Easy to maneuver and spacious.

Cons: Some would prefer an outside pocket.

Material: Polycarbonate shell.

Dimensions: 14" height x 16" width x 8.5" depth

Colorways: 4 (1 limited)

Who it's best for: The traveler who makes short trips often.

Editor Quote: "It's quite literally a mini version of a carry-on bag; it has all the convenience of a stylish and functional suitcase, just sliced in half. . . . Although it may look small, it can fit a good amount of stuff for a three or four-day weekend." — AR

Our editor put it to the test in this Calpak Ambeur Mini Carry-On Luggage review.

Cotopaxi Allpa 35 L Travel Pack ($225)

If you're headed on a trip where camping will be involved, this is the personal-item bag for you. Not only does it come in fun colorways, it's made with 100 percent recycled fabrics and has interior suitcase-style organization. There's a 15-inch laptop sleeve, large mesh water bottle holder at the side, and a zipper that goes around three sides of the pack, so you can also open it by laying it flat if you don't want to top load. The air mesh shoulder straps also make for a more comfortable carry than previous models.

Pros: Versatile design and function.

Cons: Some find it may be too big for smaller women and the quality of the bag doesn't last long.

Material: 100% recycled fabric.

Dimensions: 22" height x 12" width x 10" depth

Colorways: 4

Who it's best for: The frequent traveler or hiker.

What Reviewers Say: "Got it just in time for my surf trip! Fits all my essentials (bikinis) and can't wait to use it on other getaways! I love all the pockets and like how it opens like a suitcase and I don't necessarily need packing cubes."

Away Overnight Bag ($225)

Away's The Overnight Bag is a water-resistant, durable, sleek option that's perfect for fitting a few outfits, toiletries, and your tech. It has a 15-inch laptop pocket, several interior and exterior pockets to help you stay organized, and a useful trolley sleeve. It has an easy-access clamshell opening and a detachable shoulder strap as well. It comes in six colors, and you even can personalize it.

Pros: Chic design and

Cons: Some find it's hard to carry.

Material: Repellent nylon and leather trim.

Dimensions: 11" height x 17.7" width x 9" depth

Colorways: 6

Who it's best for: The 24-hour traveler.

Extras: Compatible with any Away suitcase and features an interior organization.

What Reviewers Say: "I will use this for travel - both in airplanes and via car. It's perfectly proportioned, it opens like a traditional suitcase with a mesh enclosed compartment on one side - great for carry on with room for all needed/wanted items during flight. I also love how the bag fits over the handles on my AWAY suitcase."

You can also consider getting the The Weekender Bag ($245) if you need more space; however, its dimensions may exceed some airline's requirements. The larger option has a 9.4-inch depth, 20.9-inch width, and 11.8-inch height.

The Overnight Bag can fit around two to three outfits with a 28 liter capacity, whereas The Weekender Bag can fit three to four outfits with a 38 liter capacity.

Nomad Lane V4 Bento Bag ($298)

Ideal for those who prioritize organization and efficient packing, the Nomad Lane V4 Bento Bag has a unique and functional design that opens like a suitcase. This opens down the middle like a suitcase, so you can have each side lay flat for easy packing. The bento-inspired bag has plenty of exterior and interior compartments to keep things organized, including a tech pouch, a padded laptop sleeve, a toiletry pouch, a shoe bag, two internal compartments, an external wallet/phone pocket, and an external pocket for water bottles. Plus, it features an adjustable side strap, top handles, a convertible-trolley sleeve pocket, and a lightweight construction. This bag comes in two contemporary colorways, and is made from weather-resistant nylon and LWG-certified leather.

Pros: Multi-functional and weather-resistant fabric, and fits well under airplane seats.

Cons: Some have received defective zippers.

Material: Lightweight ballistic nylon.

Dimensions: 10" height x 17" width x 8" depth.

Colorways: 3

Who it's best for: The traveler who needs organization in a small space.

Editor Quote: Our editor says that she loves that it has two security-friendly pockets that can be accessed from the top so she doesn't have to fumble through TSA. "After packing my computer, tablet, chargers, and headphones, I was able to include two changes of clothes, pajamas, toiletries, and an extra pair of shoes all inside the bag, which is pretty impressive for the size." — Angela Elias, contributing editor, Shopping

Check our her review of the Nomad Lane V4 Bento Bag here.

We're looking forward to a couple of new options for our next update. These include: the Quince Water Repellent Puff Expandable Tote, which is the brand's bestselling weekender tote and the popular Calpak Weekender Duffel, which feature a dedicated shoe compartment and is perfect for the on-the-go mom.

Anvita Reddy (she/her) is a former assistant editor for PS Shopping. She has a passion for products and reviews home gadgets, cookware, tech, and more. Having dealt with acne as a teenager and into adulthood, her expertise lies in beauty. At PS, she tested skin care, makeup, and hair care, plus countless other beauty products.

Balim Tezel (she/her) is a shopping updates editor at PS and the founder of Maison des Nus, a New York-based affordable luxury brand. She graduated from Northwestern University's Medill School of Journalism.

Naomi Parris is the assistant shopping editor at PS, based in New York. With over eight years of experience and previous roles held on the brand's Beauty and Operations teams, she enjoys telling stories that merge fashion, beauty, and Black culture. Naomi has also lent her skillful pen to Essence Girls United, Elle, Bustle, and Elite Daily. When she's not crafting shopping roundups, high-profile features, beauty op-eds, or trend guides, you can find Naomi behind her blog "Eli-Nay," where she inspires readers through style guides, cultural pieces, and innovative content on her Instagram.