WIRED Reviews: Eastpak and Patagonia Lead 2026 Duffel Bag Buying Guide
The media outlet’s latest assessment identifies the Eastpak Duffel Pack S Tarp as the top pick for general use, while also evaluating options from Patagonia and Baboon to the Moon for specific travel and storage needs.
WIRED has published an updated buying guide for duffel bags, featuring field-tested recommendations from brands including Eastpak, Patagonia, and Baboon to the Moon. The analysis, released in May 2026, identifies the Eastpak Duffel Pack S Tarp as the top pick for most users, citing its 90-litre capacity, durable water-resistant exterior, and a 30-year warranty. The guide also reviews the Patagonia Black Hole for its longevity and the Baboon to the Moon Duffel Box for its modular design.
Testing methodology involved simulating real-world usage, including loading bags fully, squashing them in car boots and overhead bins, and using them for road trips and gym sessions. Editors evaluated the bags based on their ability to handle overpacking and their suitability for airline carry-on restrictions, noting that compliance varies by airline and staff discretion.
The Eastpak Duffel Pack S Tarp is highlighted for its simple yet effective design, featuring a shiny, black, tarp-like exterior and compression straps for overpackers. The publication notes the bag’s generous 30-year warranty, adding a humorous caveat regarding the year 2055. The Patagonia Black Hole is praised for its construction from 100 per cent recycled polyester with a TPU-film laminate, with long-term users reporting excellent condition after years of heavy use.
The Baboon to the Moon Duffel Box is described as a modular "wide-mouth packing system" rather than a traditional duffel, featuring a box-like structure with lash points and multiple configurations. Available in 55L and 75L sizes, the bag is noted for its versatility as a storage container or gear organizer, though the author questions whether the fabric is fully waterproof, suggesting it is closer to water-resistant.
Additional reviewed items include a hybrid gym and travel bag with a USB-A port, the Knack Expandable Metro Duffel for business commuting, and a small quilted duffel with leather feet. The guide links to related resources for luggage and toiletry bags, while noting that future testing will include options from Patagonia, Wolfpak, Yeti, and The North Face.
