The Duffle Bag: A Manufacturer's Guide to its Origin, Name & Use

The duffle bag is one of the most versatile and enduring silhouettes in the entire travel category. As a B2B manufacturer, we've produced this "workhorse" bag in countless forms—from heavy-duty canvas for outdoor brands to premium leather for fashion labels.

But its name, spelling, and function are the subject of many common questions. We're here to provide the definitive, expert answers based on our deep knowledge of this bag's history and construction.

1. The Name & Origin: Duffle or Duffel?

• The Origin (Duffel, Belgium): The name "duffel" is not a word for a bag, but for a place. The bag gets its name from Duffel, a town in the province of Antwerp, Belgium. In the 15th and 16th centuries, this town was world-renowned for producing a specific type of coarse, heavy woolen cloth. This durable fabric was the original material used to make these bags.

• The Spelling (Duffel vs. Duffle):

• Duffel (with an "el") is the original, correct spelling, as it refers to the town of Duffel, Belgium.

• Duffle (with an "le") is a common variant that has become completely accepted over time through popular use. Today, both spellings are considered correct and are used interchangeably by brands and manufacturers.

• The British Word: In the UK, the bag is also called a duffle bag, but it is often referred to by its function: holdall. A "holdall" perfectly describes its purpose—a simple, large bag designed to "hold all" of your items.

2. What Makes a Bag a Duffle Bag? (The Definition)

From a design and manufacturing standpoint, a duffle bag is defined by its specific construction and shape:

1. The Shape: Its primary feature is a soft-sided, cylindrical or "east-west" rectangular body.

2. The Handles: It has two parallel handles located at the top-center of the bag.

3. The Access: It is loaded from the top, typically via a long zipper that runs the length of the bag.

4. The Strap (Optional): Most modern duffles also include a single, detachable, long strap for wearing on the shoulder or crossbody.

It is designed to be an unstructured "carry-all," which is why it's so flexible.

3. The User & Use Case: Duffle vs. Backpack vs. Suitcase

• Who Uses Duffle Bags? Almost everyone. Its simple, high-capacity design makes it the top choice for:

• Athletes & Gym-goers: Perfect for throwing in shoes, clothes, and gear.

• Travelers: The classic "weekender" bag.

• Outdoor & Military: Heavy-duty canvas versions are used for their ruggedness.

• Duffle vs. Backpack: Which is better? It depends on the journey.

• A backpack is better for hands-free mobility, ergonomics, and walking long distances (it distributes weight evenly on your back).

• A duffle bag is better for maximum packing volume, quick access, and carrying bulky or awkwardly-shaped gear (like a sports uniform or shoes) that won't fit well in a backpack's compartments.

• Duffle vs. Suitcase: Can you use it instead? Yes. A duffle bag is the "soft" alternative to a "hard" suitcase.

• Use a Duffle if: You value flexibility. Its soft sides can be squeezed into tight overhead bins or car trunks. It's also much lighter than a suitcase.

• Use a Suitcase if: You need protection. A suitcase's hard shell and frame protect fragile items, and its wheels make it easier to navigate airports.

• Which bag is best for a 3-day trip? The Duffle Bag. It is the quintessential "weekender" and is perfectly sized for a 2-to-3-day trip. A medium-sized duffle (approx. 40L-50L) has enough space for a few changes of clothes and toiletries without the bulk or rigidity of a suitcase.