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While travelers these days have lots of options for luggage, it’s hard to beat the simplicity and versatility of a classic duffel. They can swallow a ton of gear, and their soft sides make them ideal for stuffing into a tightly packed trunk or overhead bin. We’ve seen some great deals on duffels lately, but today we’re stoked about one in particular: REI’s highly-rated Pack Duffel Bag, which is now under $40.
The REI Co-op Pack Duffel Bag is on sale for only $35 right now, a 30% discount on its normal retail price of $50. This abrasion-resistant nylon bag has earned nearly 100 five-star ratings from REI shoppers who say it "holds a ton" and “works great as a checked bag,” too. It's only available in one color—matte black—but REI also has its Big Haul duffel on sale, and that one comes in yellow and red.
The REI Co-op Pack Duffel Bag was intended to house a hiking backpack or a child car seat, but it can do so much more than that. It has a unique design compared to most other duffels. There’s a single zippered opening at one end (rather than along the top) to facilitate quick loading and unloading. It’s made from a stout nylon fabric for good durability, and when fully loaded, it measures 32-by-15-by-13 inches in a roughly rectangular shape. A carry handle and shoulder strap help you lug it around when in transit, and a clear ID window on the outside makes it easy to identify on a luggage carousel. But what's most appealing about this multi-purpose duffel is that when you arrive at your destination, it packs down into its own internal zippered pocket for convenient storage. If you're heading on a trip and think you'll have more to come home with than when you left, this bag is a must-have.
The Pack Duffel has earned top marks from REI shoppers for its durable design and no-nonsense functionality—it works as advertised. “It held up well to travel and is sturdy,” said a shopper. “It also folds up fairly small, which is convenient.” Another shopper agreed, saying, “This bag is reasonably priced and does its job very well.”
One reviewer took their Pack Duffel all the way to Everest Base Camp. “Not the intended use, but the pack performed great,” they said. “It's also excellent for getting a backpack through the airport in style, and more than worth the cost.”
While the Pack Duffel is designed for carrying an adventure pack, you can use it in all kinds of scenarios—its spacious interior can tote whatever gear you toss inside. And at just $35, it’s an affordable way to get some extra storage and luggage space. But that killer pricing won’t last forever, so don’t miss your chance to get this top-rated bag at a significant discount.
