Duffle Bags
Duffle bags are the most practical large-capacity bags for travel, hunting, and any situation where you need to carry a lot of gear without the structure of a hard-sided case. Soft-sided, flexible, and available in a wide range of capacities — from 40L overnight bags to 120L expedition duffles.
At Dwights, our duffle bag range suits travellers, hunters, and outdoor users who need a tough, packable bag for gear transport.
Types of Duffle Bag
- Standard duffle: Single main compartment with top zip opening and carry handles. The most versatile option — simple, durable, and easy to pack. Available in sizes from 40L to 120L+.
- Convertible/backpack duffle: Detachable shoulder straps allow the bag to be worn as a backpack when needed — useful for situations where you're carrying it a distance from the vehicle.
- Wheeled duffle: Integrated wheels and a pull handle for easy transport in airports and on hard surfaces. Heavier than non-wheeled options but significantly more convenient for frequent travellers.
- Packable duffle: Compresses into a small stuff sack when empty — practical as a secondary bag for bringing home gear and purchases, or as a lightweight overflow bag.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size duffle bag do I need?
For a weekend trip or short hunting excursion, 40–60L covers most needs. For a week-long trip or extended hunting trip with bulky gear (waders, clothing layers, meat bags), 80–100L is more practical. For expedition or vehicle-based use where you're carrying everything, 100L+ makes sense. As a guide: 1L per day of trip plus additional space for bulky outdoor gear. Don't underestimate how quickly hunting and outdoor gear fills a bag.
Are duffle bags waterproof?
Most standard duffle bags are water-resistant rather than fully waterproof — they handle rain and splashes well but won't survive submersion or sustained heavy rain without the contents getting damp. For hunting in wet NZ conditions or river transport, look for a bag with a waterproof outer or use dry bags for critical gear inside a standard duffle. Fully waterproof duffles exist but are heavier and more expensive — worth it for boat and river hunting use.
Can I check a duffle bag on NZ flights?
Yes — duffle bags work well as checked luggage. Most airlines allow up to 23kg per checked bag. Soft-sided duffles handle baggage handling well and are less likely to be damaged than hard-sided cases with wheels. Use TSA-approved locks on the zip pulls for international travel. For carry-on, most duffles are too large for overhead locker limits — check your specific airline's carry-on dimensions before travelling.