10 Feb Must-Have Travel Bags for 2023
My pick for travel bags for 2023 has got to be Peak Design. I’ve been obsessed with their stuff since their first camera bags. I’ve bought many myself and as my needs developed, I bought a different bag. I have loved absolutely everything I’ve bought which has been camera bags, a camera cube, a tripod, straps, and Capture Clip. I would buy each again and love telling people about the brand.
This post contains affiliate links which means this website may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links.
Once I find a brand I love, I just have to tell you about it! Peak Design has expanded its offering and made bags for so many different scenarios that I know there’s going to be something you love. I’m going to show off each bag and why I think they are awesome.
In the USA, they have the Peak Design Marketplace where you can buy/sell previously-loved bags and the warranty gets transferred. That isn’t available in Europe yet, but I’ll sell my old bags once it’s possible for the new owner to also have the warranty. The prices are higher on Peak Design bags because of the high quality of the design and manufacturing of each product. If you read their mission, I think you’ll understand why it’s worth the extra money. Plus, there’s a lifetime warranty and their customer service is incredible. I know, I’ve used them.
Ok, ON TO THE BAGS!
Must-have luggage for 2023
Travel Backpack
Available in 30 liters and 45 liters, this backpack has so many bells and whistles that don’t feel like extras…they feel like features that should be on every bag ever made, but aren’t. It comes in some awesome colors (my favorite is sage), but more importantly, it has a luggage pass-through, is carry-on approved, expandable, has a padded laptop and tablet sleeves, is weatherproof, had great handles, is comfy to wear and so much more. I like that it has a sternum strap and zipper pulls that are harder for any pickpockets who want to test out your bag’s safety. For those eco-conscious among us, it’s made from recycled plastics and the brand donates to 1% for the planet. Depending on which size you go for, you can fit 3 of their packing cubes (or camera cubes if you choose the 45 liter bag). Not gonna lie, for a petite woman like me, I’m so glad they created a smaller version of this bag because we all need options so we can figure out what is most comfortable for our bodies.
Travel Duffel
I’m not a duffel fan but even I’m pretty impressed with this bag. You can put it on your back or carry it normally. It comes in 2 sizes: 35 liters and 65 liters. The main difference is that the 35 liter bag is carry-on approved and the 65 liter bag fits 4 units of packing/camera cubes (plus extra space) while the 35 liter fits only 3. And I would definitely buy cubes for this bag! They both give super-wide access to the inner section with 2 internal pockets and 4 external ones. The shell is weatherproof and the bottom liner is waterproof. I always appreciate the attention to the environment with this brand because this bag is also sustainable since it’s carbon neutral and is fair trade certified.
Packing Cubes to buy in 2023
Traditional Packing Cubes
Yep, of course, they have packing cubes, but these have two compartments (one on either side) so you can use one for dirty clothes and one for clean clothes. I had always felt that this feature was missing! I’m glad they figured it out. It’s made from super high-quality materials so it will last for ages (and don’t forget there’s a lifetime warranty). The material is a self-healing shell that’s ultralight and weatherproof. Basically, there aren’t the same packing cubes you can get for cheap on Amazon.
Wash Pouch
A toiletry kit isn’t something I use…well I kind of do but it’s all just in a small packing cube. This would actually be a bunch of steps up for me. But Sean does use a toiletry bag and it’s so nice to have the pockets and dividers and, you HAVE TO HAVE THE HOOK. My little bag does not and it always tips over and spills everything. If you need to use this on a counter, it is designed to sit flat and give a wide opening so you can reach everything. The wash pouch features a weatherproof shell, magnetic toothbrush pocket, and lots of pockets. Keeping it clean is so easy because the inside pockets pull out and it’s all designed to be easy to clean. If you just need a small bag for these items because you pack carry-on only and you keep your liquids in a clear bag (that’s what I do), then they also offer the small wash bag that’s perfect!
Tech Pouch
This is my FAVORITE bag on this list. Honestly, I bought the Tech Pouch thinking I’d not have a use for it and return it. But I was so intrigued which is why I bought it. I like bags, what can I say? Anyway, it’s funny how something you found weird and possibly pointless turned into your favorite packing accessory. The tech pouch was inspired by origami and it holds SO MUCH STUFF. It’s incredible. It will take a while for everything to find the perfect spot, but once it does, it’s a gift that gives you back time, space, and frustration. There are features I don’t really use, but that’s the great thing about these bags, use them how it works best for you! You can hook up straps to it if you buy some anchors, and you can charge a phone in the exterior (somewhat hidden) pocket while the charger is inside because there’s a sneaky little cable pass-through hole. I love that it feels rugged on the outside but so flexible on the inside. I never worry about my stuff moving around or getting damaged.
Everyday Carry Bag
Packable Tote
I’ve had the same reusable shopping bag for maybe 8 years now. Quality is everything, especially when you’re trying to be sustainable. Unfortunately for me, my favorite bag has gotten caught in my bike wheels more than a couple of times and it’s getting lots of holes. So, I’m in the market for a new one and this is it! With one handle, it makes life a little bit easier (I’m always trying to figure out if my hands are in the right places when I pick up the bag on the metro so it doesn’t just fall over). And it ZIPS. IT’S A PACKABLE BAG THAT ZIPS! Sold. It’s also one piece of amazing high-quality recycled ripstop shell that heals small abrasions itself. It folds down smaller than a deck of cards and is super light. This should be in everyone’s travel bag because it’s PERFECT for shopping and taking those few extra things you bought that doesn’t fit in your suitcase with you onto the plane.
I hope that your travels in 2023 and beyond are safe, stress-free, and happy. Wishing you joy and travels!
