The Best Weekend Travel Bag & A Béis Weekender Bag Review
Finding the right travel bag is crucial to the successful planning and execution of any trip. There are TONS of bags on the market; duffles, backpacks, totes, you name it. So many different styles and functions. As much as I have traveled, I didn’t find my favorite travel bag until 2020, but I am so thankful I did!
So what makes a GOOD travel bag? If you are on the market for the perfect travel bag for you and your adventures, here are some things to consider:
Durability:
If you are sort of clumsy and careless like me, you will need to consider a travel bag that can withstand the tests of time. Seriously though- you need a bag that can take a beating in TSA (we all know gentleness is not a first priority here), can suffer being stuffed into an overhead bin or under a Budget Airlines seat, and won’t fall apart when you get caught in a flash flood. Look for a bag that is sturdy, and most importantly- easy to CLEAN!
Functionality:
Perhaps one of the more important things to consider when choosing a travel bag is what your bag can do for you. Do you have a computer that needs to be safely stowed? Maybe you need a pocket so you can attach your bag to your suitcase? There are a million features to make a bag functional. Maybe you enjoy zippered compartments or a separate storage for shoes? What about the strap? Are you comfortable with a shoulder bag? Or maybe you’d be more comfortable with a backpack? Does it fit everything you would need? Important questions here.
Airline/Carry-On/Personal Item Compliant:
We’ve all done it…opted for the cheapest airline ticket for a weekend away…and refused the $60 (both ways) up-charge for a “carry on”. If you don’t know the difference, a carry-on bag is supposed to be stowed in an overhead bin, while a personal item (which is always free (; ) must go under the seat in front of you. If you are frugal, you really can pack for a short trip in a personal item alone. That being said, make sure you are choosing a bag that fits your airline needs.
Is it…Cute?
Come on, let’s not pretend this doesn’t cross your mind. You want a travel bag that makes you feel like the main character in the airport- don’t lie. It is totally possible to choose a travel bag that meets your needs AND your sense of style. You do NOT have to settle for that tote you got in Cancún that one time in 2007, I promise.
My Personal Favorite Travel Bag: The Béis Weekender (Mini)
In my humble opinion, the Béis Weekender travel bag meets all of the needs of functionality, durability, compliance, and of course, it’s cute. At $98.00, this bag is a one time cost for something that will last a long time. I personally prefer the Mini ($88.00), as it is still super roomy and gets the job done, but doesn’t feel overbearing to carry from terminal to terminal. It comes in beige, black, and gray, and can absolutely be used as a carry-on (regular size) or a personal item (mini size).
This bag has several inside compartments and dividers, including a compartment for your laptop (and a laptop CASE!). Externally, there is a zippered compartment to store a phone, maybe a wallet, and some other small necessities that you need to be easily accessible. There is also a trolly pocket. This is a pocket that allows your luggage handles to hold the bag in place on top.
The best part, though, is the detachable, zippered compartment on the bottom. Typically meant for shoe storage, this compartment easily comes off if you just want to use the top portion of the bag for a day trip. It is a bit tricky to get back on, but once you figure it out, it’s not so bad.
Overall, this bag is adorable, easy to manage when traveling (comfortable carrying straps), and should have enough space to pack for a quick 3-day trip.
If you decide to purchase, I would recommend applying scotch guard to protect the fabric (especially if you get the beige color), as you will start to notice marks from being bumped around. Let me know what you think!
