The Best Suit Duffels For Travelers

The suit duffel is the best of both worlds; it's a duffel bag for all your stuff, with a suit bag built into it, so instead of hauling two things through an airport or to the gym, including an awkward portfolio-sized beast, you can have everything in one place.

Pick sizing, first. Suit duffels are a clever piece of origami: You put the suit in the bag, and then roll the bag in a tube, zipping in the sides to turn it into a duffel. However, that generally means you get a medium sized duffel bag, with a capacity of 45 liters or so, out of the deal. So, while you can definitely pack shoes, belt, some books, and a tablet, you may need to have a second piece of luggage to haul the rest. And don't forget to ensure it is carry-on sized!

Check for the pockets you need. Generally, these are built around the suit in more ways than one, such as one side of the bag dedicated to a shoe pocket. Some designs will have exterior pockets and other features to make it a bit more than just suit support, so look for the pouches and bits that you need, before you get on that flight.

And don't forget the bag's heft and travel design. Heavier bags should come with you on a car trip or as part of your everyday routine, like your morning gym visit before the big meeting. Lighter weights should be used when you're getting in the air or need to pack light for a short trip. And once you have it in place, you'll never have to worry about dressing right again.