At one time, only campers used large duffels also known as "soft trunks." They were the easiest to use for casual trips. They fit easily in the hold of a bus, and were the most convenient to store at the campsite. Then duffels caught on with college students and became the popular size for student tours. It didn't take long for everyone to figure out what the kids knew all along. Duffels were easy to pack, and easy to travel with. Now with the advent of weight restrictions on airline baggage, duffels have caught on with travelers of every age. They are lightweight luggage that will first and foremost usually keep you within the 50-pound maximum weight limit now required by most airlines. Secondly, they fold down flat when not in use so as not to take up much room in storage. Even the retirees who have downsized to smaller living quarters will not have a problem with duffels. Students have known for sometime that you can slide these cases under the bed easily.
Duffels are also unframed and unobstructed, making them great bags to stuff with clothing and lots of travel accessories. It seems you can always add another pair of shoes or another jacket in a duffle. The unframed construction makes them lighter and more pliable. Now that these duffels also have wheels for easy handling they have become super popular with savvy travelers. The better wheels available on the duffels, and the locking push and pull handles, give them the same ease in handling as the upright Pullman cases. Some of the duffels have separate bottom compartments so you can separate shoes, or clean and dirty clothes, or just for packing slacks. Most of the newer duffels have many pockets and zippered sections so you will not lose anything in the deep packing area.
Duffels are available in a huge array of colors. From neon bright duffels offered by companies such as Skyway, to the better brands with leather trim such as Mosaic travel gear, there will be a choice for you. The amenities you've come to expect in your Pullman case are also featured in these duffels. You'll find outside pockets for the last minute items. Add-a-bag straps to hook up a smaller piece or a briefcase or attaché case are also available on duffels. Small "wet pack" pockets to pack a last minute wet bathing suit is another feature you'll find. There are even handy shoe pockets to tuck those sneakers or shoes into safely. Since corporate casual dress has become popular in many companies, it isn't always necessary to travel with the more formal suit or garment bag. You also do not need the structure of the Pullman case with the foldout garment sleeve, making the duffel simply ideal for this type of travel.
One of the best features of these rolling duffels is that they can always be tucked into a crowded trunk or baggage section. Because there are no constructed sides, you don't have to be afraid of piling one on top of another. Discount luggage prices on duffels are generally less than the same sized Pullman because of the absence of a frame. Yet, they still have the same warranty or guarantee offered by the other cases in the same series or brand of luggage. Now you know why duffels are considered dandy for travel and the perfect case to pack for that upcoming trip.
Maxine Greco has worked in the luggage and travel industry for over 35 years. She is currently employed at Village Luggage & Gifts.