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5 Personal-Item Bags That Hold More Than You Think

By Marissa Kozma
Read time: 3 minutes
October 22, 2026
Updated: October 22, 2026

5 Personal-Item Bags That Hold More Than You Think

Luggage
Credit: © Karolina Grabowska/Unsplash.com
By Marissa Kozma
Author
Marissa Kozma
Marissa is a cheap airfare aficionado who loves exploring offbeat destinations with her husband. Based in Los Angeles and Joshua Tree, Marissa has been featured in publications such as San Diego Magazine, Palm Springs Life Magazine, 303 Magazine, and Mountain Living.

No matter what airline you fly, chances are you’re allowed at least one personal item free of charge. And if you’re away for just a long weekend, you might be inclined to pack everything in an item that can fit under the seat in front of you to avoid paying baggage fees or fighting for overhead space. Though it varies by airline, the average allowed size for a personal item on an aircraft is 17 inches by 13 inches by 8 inches — not huge, but not nothing either. Many travel backpacks, duffels, or totes are designed to accommodate these size restrictions, but which bags pack the biggest punch? Here are five items that are quite spacious despite their seemingly small appearance.

All featured products and deals are selected independently and objectively by the author. Daily Passport may receive a share of sales via affiliate links in content.

Allpa Travel Pack by Cotopaxi

Allpa Travel Pack by Cotopaxi
Credit: Image courtesy of vendor

Made of 100% recycled material, the Allpa Travel Pack by Cotopaxi is a solid choice for frequent flyers. It has comfortable mesh shoulder straps and a luggage pass-through strap that makes it easy to slide over a suitcase handle when you do need more than a personal item. Plus, it features a water-resistant shell made of nylon, four loops for attaching extra gear, a water bottle pocket, and three spacious internal pockets. It’s available in five sizes, but the 20- or 28-liter bag is best if you plan to store it under a seat.

Traveler Duffel by Tobiq

Traveler Duffel by Tobiq
Credit: Image courtesy of vendor

You’ve probably never seen a duffel design like this before, which is why this one has caught the eyes of many travelers. The Traveler Duffel by Tobiq offers 20 storage options across four zippered compartments, and some of the compartments offer different color options, so you can even go for a rainbow scheme if you want to make a bold design statement. Made from resilient weather- and stain-resistant recycled material, this duffel bag is crafted with durability in mind, but it’s also comfortable to carry. It has stowaway backpack straps, a detachable shoulder strap, and handles on the front and sides that allow for multiple carrying options. 

Blast Travel Backpack by Bagsmart

Blast Travel Backpack by Bagsmart
Credit: Image courtesy of vendor

Available in three sizes, three material options, and several colors, the Blast Travel Backpack by Bagsmart features a clamshell-inspired design to make packing easy. Travelers can effortlessly store electronics, clothing, shoes, toiletries, and other travel essentials — with enough room to fit everything you need for a short trip. A six-pocket interior organization system helps you keep items within reach, while quick-access pockets on the outside are ideal for passports, boarding items, and keys. Travelers will also appreciate the TSA-friendly laptop compartment that allows you to lay the bag flat while it’s being screened.

Mountain Utility Tote by Topo Designs

Credit: Image courtesy of vendor

Based and founded in Colorado, Topo Designs has become a beloved outdoor brand for its signature color-block creations. Available in six color combinations, the Mountain Utility Tote is a well-crafted tote for those who wish to ditch their small purse or backpack for something a little more spacious. Made of recycled nylon with a water-resistant coating, the bag features internal and external side pockets for additional storage. Plus, the cinch top is perfect for squeezing in a few extra clothing items, a change of shoes, snacks, and other essentials, and keeping them within easy reach.

Related: Why the Travel Tote Bag Is the Ultimate Carry-On

Packable Duffel Bag by Eagle Creek

Packable Duffel Bag by Eagle Creek
Credit: Image courtesy of vendor

If you’re looking for an uber-light option that will hold all those extra souvenirs you buy on vacation, the Packable Duffel Bag by Eagle Creek might be for you. The bag can easily expand to hold 30 liters, but if you end up not using it, it can fold up to fit in the palm of your hand. Made of 100% recycled fabrics from ocean cleanups, the bag weighs just 5 ounces, with one large zippered compartment and an exterior stash pocket. Its flexible design allows it to easily fit underneath an airplane seat. 

Related: How To Pack for a Trip With Just a Personal Item

Featured image credit: © Karolina Grabowska/Unsplash.com