An extra bag that folds up compactly and offers a surprising amount of storage is something I didn’t realize I desperately needed until late in my travel career. Needless to say, once I discovered the Paravel Fold-up Bag and its endless uses, it completely changed the way I travel. Heading on a longer vacation and need an extra bag to use as a weekender? This duffel has you covered. Planning to do a bit of shopping on a trip to a far-flung destination? No need to worry about having enough space in your suitcase to tote home your treasures, simply unzip this bag and toss them inside.
What makes this duffel even better is that it’s small enough to toss in with the rest of your luggage as a “just in case” afterthought, and lightweight enough to barely notice it’s there until the need inevitably arises.
I first used this bag on a visit to France when I took a four-day long-weekend trip from Paris and just needed a few things, while leaving the rest of my belongings sprawled out at my accommodation. I am a notorious overpacker, and yet I was able to fit all my clothes, shoes, jackets, and toiletries comfortably into this duffel, which appears much smaller than it is. I used it again in London when I got a bit carried away with my shopping and needed an extra bag to bring home my fabulous new finds.
Weighing in at just 1 pound and folding down to about the size of an iPad (8 x 9.75 x 2.75 inches when folded), the Paravel Fold-up Bag meets TSA carry-on requirements for personal items, so you won’t have to worry about checking an additional bag if you’re only planning to use it on the way home from your trip, like I was. Conveniently, this bag folds completely flat for easy storage, both during your trip and at home between uses. It also features a deep interior zippered pocket and an exterior slip pocket for organization. Plus, it has a luggage sleeve on the back so it easily slides onto the handle of your rolling suitcase for optimal portability. Even if this bag didn’t fold down into itself so compactly, I love that it would still be a great option to use as a regular weekender duffel.
Sustainably-minded consumers will be happy to know that each bag is made from 22 recycled plastic bottles and features recycled, vegan leather zippers. The brand uses its proprietary Negative Nylon (which is both Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certified and meets the Global Recycled Standard) to create a water-resistant and ultra-lightweight material that’s ideal for wherever you’re headed.
I’m partial to the bag’s style, which is understated yet fashionable enough to work with any outfit or luggage ensemble, whether you’re toting it to the gym, on the plane, on a road trip, or even to the office. It comes in eight attractive colorways to suit every style and occasion. It can also be personalized with the option to add a custom monogram, making this invaluable travel hack a perfect gift for frequent fliers.
After having used this item on countless trips, I can attest, it’s not only worth the investment, but you will doubtlessly want to add it to your own list of travel-packing essentials for years to come.
Why Trust Travel + Leisure
Sophie Mendel is an editor at Travel + Leisure, where she covers the fashion and beauty beat. She has visited over 50 countries and knows her way around a good travel accessory! She has used countless bags throughout her travels, and felt this one would be an especially valuable addition to any traveler’s packing list.
Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.
