They also easily hold a book, a notebook, and my planner—all things I never travel without. I’m not overly careful with my bags, and both hold up beautifully, which matters when you’re tossing your bag into a TSA bin or tucking it under your seat.”
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Toteme
T-Lock shoulder bag
$1,390
NET-A-PORTER
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A.P.C.
Drummer bag
$795
A.P.C.
Chloé Bartoli, founder of Éterne
“The Balenciaga men’s Travel City Bag is my ultimate travel companion. It’s incredibly spacious but not bulky, and I love how versatile it is. The leather is unbelievably soft and supple, making it easy to fold and pack away without worrying about ruining its shape. You can carry it comfortably over your shoulder or wear it crossbody with the detachable strap. It also sits perfectly on top of a rolling carry-on suitcase, making navigating the airport effortless. What I love most is that the bag doubles as my everyday bag once I arrive at my destination. It’s the perfect balance of practicality and style, which is exactly what I look for when traveling.”
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Balenciaga
Le City travel bag
$3,750
BALENCIAGA
Estelle Lubino, social media director
“I love how versatile this bag is. It’s a hybrid tote that transforms into a vest, embodying the brand’s mantra: bags to wear, not to carry. The design is functional without compromising on style, and it works with pretty much every outfit—especially if you gravitate toward a more technical, gorpcore-inspired aesthetic.
For travel, the details make all the difference. The hidden pockets keep everything organized, and the front pocket is perfect for things I need to reach for quickly, like my passport, gum, or lip balm. It also has rings that let you attach accessories, like a water bottle; such a practical touch when you’re on the go. It’s the kind of bag that’s just as great for navigating an airport as it is for exploring a new city.”
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côte&ciel
Po smooth bag
$340
CÔTE&CIEL
Pip Durell, founder of With Nothing Underneath
“An Anya holdall is the perfect cabin bag and a forever piece. I love the color combo of this one, and the personalization is naturally a cute touch. Anya knows how to travel—another favorite is the pills box, which is perfect for a vitamin obsessive like me.”
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Anya Hindmarch
Bespoke Walton bag
$1,850
ANYA HINDMARCH
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs 15 Stylish WellTraveled Women Share Their Favorite Travel Bags
1 What is this article about
Its a roundup of 15 stylish welltraveled womenlike designers editors and frequent flyerssharing the travel bags they actually use and love
2 What kinds of bags are featured
A mix carryon rollers weekenders backpacks totes sling bags and convertible bags that work for both short trips and longhaul travel
3 Whats the most recommended bag type overall
Carryon rollers and roomy totes come up most often since they fit overhead bins and work for both business and leisure trips
4 Why do these women prefer carryon bags
They skip checkedbag fees avoid lost luggage and can get through the airport fasterplus its easier to stay organized
5 What makes a travel bag stylish and practical at the same time
Clean design quality materials neutral colors and smart features like laptop sleeves wheels and secure zippers
6 What features do they look for most
Durable fabric smooth wheels comfortable straps a trolley sleeve interior pockets and a size that meets carryon rules
7 What is a trolley sleeve and why does it matter
Its a strap on the back of a tote or backpack that slides over a suitcase handle so you can stack bags and roll them together
8 Whats a common mistake when buying a travel bag
Buying for looks only A bag thats heavy hard to carry or too big for overhead bins becomes a problem fast
9 How do they keep bags organized on long trips
Packing cubes pouches and using interior compartments Many pick bags with lots of pockets so everything has a place
10 Are expensive bags worth it
Often yes for frequent travelersbetter materials and warranties last longer But several women recommend midpriced bags that perform just as well
11 Whats the best bag for a weekend trip
A weekender or large tote with a trolley sleeve It holds 23 days of clothes and pairs with a carryon