Presented by Geologie Native Content

Our Favorite Bags, Luggage and Style Accessories of 2023

Essentials for a trip across town or a flight to a distant city.

bags with a graphic that says the best of bags and accessories

This story is part of the 2023 Gear Patrol Style Awards. To see the full list of winners, click here.


The right bags and accessories can make or break a trip. Whether heading across town for a business meeting, taking a weekend escape to a scenic locale or catching a flight to a distant city, the last thing you want to think about is your bag.

So make sure you have something you can rely on — a backpack, laptop bag or carry-on suitcase that is structurally sound, easy to carry and simple to pack. The best bags and accessories are the ones that slip seamlessly into the background and let you focus on your life away from home.

To learn more about our testing methodology and how we evaluate products, head here.

A terrific mix of sophistication and simplicity, this crush-proof polycarbonate carry-on is sleek but understated, the way you want your luggage to be. An ejectable onboard battery keeps all your gear topped up, while its 8.4 pound, 46-liter shell fits everything you need for a short trip, at a price that leaves some budget for souvenirs.

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When you’re ready to stop having flings and instead get into a long-term relationship with a good pair of sunglasses, it’s essential to pick a pair that’s not just well-built but timeless. Ray-Ban’s original Aviators, with a design that has been cool for nigh on a century, is in a league of its own.

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With a compartment or pocket for everything but the kitchen sink, this 25.5 liter backpack feels bigger than it is. And it’s overbuilt in all the best ways, with a bottom is double reinforced with additional fabric and coil zippers are so sturdy they can be hard to open. It’ll take a little breaking in, but then it’s good for years to come.

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This thin leather wallet has a big slot for up to eight cards, a tinier one for cash and a pull tab to make getting both out a bit easier. If you need a minimalist option, look no further.

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This heavy-duty option will earn its fair share of dents and dings. But inside, it has hidden pockets and an included laundry bag — it also comes case comes with a complimentary leather name tag.

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Made with industrial-strength fabric, lightly waxed for weather resistance, partnered with rust-proof brass hardware and leather straps, Filson’s twill briefcase is a slick alternative to a more traditional leather briefcase that’s built to last.

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The Travel Duffle does the work of a suitcase while being significantly smaller. It’s made from all-over 100 percent recycled 600D nylon canvas that’s treated with DWR and coated with double poly.

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Moment’s Fanny Sling has compartmentalized pockets for a phone, your keys, wallet and even a camera. Plus, it’s contoured to wrap nicely around your chest or shoulder blades, depending on how you wear it. There’s even a 4-inch expander for a packable jacket.

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Originally made to haul loads of ice, this is the perfect tote for everyday use. You’re usually limited to just two picks in the triangle of price, style and quality. But somehow, the Bean’s managed to get all three into a bag that’s sure to last a long, long time.

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Billykirk’s Toiletry Bag is constructed from a water-resistant waxed canvas exterior, water-resistant nylon lining and a durable, full-grain leather bottom. Not only practical, it’s a polished take on a mundane must-have.

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This durable 25-liter pack isn’t short on storage. It has a large main compartment, multiple internal organization compartments and a front stash pocket. The body is made from recycled fabric that features a strong recycled TPU-film laminate.

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Available in three different sizes (245, 505 and 885 cubic inches), these cubes are made from lightweight yet durable 210d Hitra Robic nylon and feature YKK zippers. The mesh lid provides visibility into the cube, making it simple to grab and go.

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