10 Unexpected Things You Can Use a Duffel Bag For

The universal design of duffel bags makes them a versatile piece of luggage and an exceptional piece of gear. Everyone has a duffel, maybe even two. But other than packing it with clothes for an overnight trip, what else can you do with it?

Here are some unexpected things you use a duffel bag for that you may not have thought of.

10 Unexpected Ways to Use a Duffel Bag

Duffel bags are extremely versatile, and it’s easy to understand why. But if you’re having trouble getting past the overnight bag vision it’s best known for, we’re here to offer some insight and inspiration. Below are 10 unexpected ways to use a duffel bag.

1. An Extra Seat or Ottoman Footrest

Whether you’re using a duffel bag to stuff clothing, sleeping bags, or pillows, it creates an ample cushion to double as a seat or footrest. Using it as a cushy ottoman, you can kick your feet up anywhere from the airport gate to the campsite bonfire. Or, if its contents are not breakable, you could sit on it!

Add a little extra rigidity and tray to create a flush and stable surface, and you suddenly have yourself a side table. You could even stack two duffels side to side to make an impromptu coffee table-inspired seating area.

2. A Vehicle Repair Tool Kit

This duffel bag use is especially handy for overlanders, outfitters, or anyone driving out far from towing or a mechanic. For those scenarios, you need to come prepared! Designating a duffel bag as an emergency kit for your vehicle or bike can be a lifesaver. Add to it items like recovery straps, tire pressure gauge, a tool set, a jack, code reader, volt meter, jumper cables, and even a collapsible shovel for digging yourself out of sticky situations.

3. A Storage Bag for Picnics and Tailgating

Always searching for items when you should be hitting the road to meet up with friends? Use a spare duffel bag to organize all your picnic and tailgating gear. Add compartments to separate items like plates and utensils, blankets, and frequently used items like trash bags and koozies. You can even store your go-to soft cooler pack inside, along with all that game-day flair to support your favorite team.

4. A Field Dressing or Game Bag

A duffel bag can easily store a wide range of hunting gear, from decoys to camo clothing to field dressing tools. But if you add a more scent-controlled lining to the duffel bag, you can adapt it into a game bag. Lining the duffel with a heavy-duty, waterproof contractor garbage bag can help you control odors, hold game meat, hides, and more while you’re out in the field. It can also make cleanups easier. At the very least, it can store soiled hunting clothes and minimize odors and scents that give a hunter’s location away.

5. A Backup Bear Bag

Camping in certain states requires you to have a bear-proof canister or a means of securing food. If you ever find yourself in bear country and don’t have a bear box or way to secure provisions (even from raccoons or other wildlife), you’ll need to hang a bear bag from a tree.

You’ll need rope, of course, but also a sturdy and spacious bag to keep food, trash, and any scented toiletries (like deodorant or sunscreen) off the ground. And a duffel bag makes the perfect backup bear bag if you’re ever without.

6. A Water Hauling or Washing Station

A duffel bag can double as a basin for hauling water, washing dishes, or rinsing clothes. Okay, we’re not suggesting doing this to a brand-new duffel. However, if you have an older, unused duffel that’s been lying around for a while, this is an excellent option. This works especially well for waxed canvas duffels or PVC-lined duffels. But you could also line it to hold the water inside and make it more sink-like.

7. An Emergency Shelter Weight

Another unexpected way to use a duffel bag? Adding extra weight to shelters or tarps during unexpected storms and high winds. Fill your duffel up with rocks, heavy gear, firewood – even make a sandbag – and use it as an extra anchor to hold down your shelter. This unexpected use works for both full-on canvas wall tents or even small canvas tarps you’ve set up over cooking stations. For a quick tie-down method, attach a paracord or carabiner to the handles.

8. A Fishing or Tackle “Box” Bag

Hunters aren’t the only ones who need to haul gear. Anglers require a variety of gear, including tackle boxes, waders, and tools like pliers and fillet knives. That’s where a sturdy duffel bag comes in! Toss all your fishing gear inside, zip it up, and leave a small gap for the rods to stick out. Then, make your way to the shore or riverbank. Slinging a duffel over your shoulder makes it far easier and more manageable to carry all your gear when heading to the water.

9. A Pet Travel Bag

Whether it’s for your gun dog or the family pet, a duffel bag can act as a pet travel bag, containing everything they need for trips. Use your duffel to keep an extra bed, a favorite toy, a pet emergency kit, and any food they need for the duration of your time away from home. Once you arrive at your destination, empty most of the duffel’s contents, keeping the pet bed inside so they can curl up and stay even more comfortable.

10. A Portable Trash or Recycling Bag

A good outdoorsman abides by LNT Principles. Principle 3 asks that you dispose of waste properly: Pack it in, pack it out. This guidance means packing out all trash, litter, and other waste. As you prepare meals and go about your day at camp, consider designating a duffel bag as a waste collector or recycling bag. Line it with a contractor garbage bag to keep the inside clean and odors contained, zipping it up when not in use, and hauling it away when you leave. This also works for tailgating and other day outings, too!

Duffel Bag Uses and More Travel Hacks

Duffel bags offer an extremely versatile design that is perfect for common everyday uses to clever, unexpected travel hacks. From transporting military garb to hauling basecamp and hunting essentials, a duffel bag is built tough, steeped in history, and ready to take on anything.

Explore Beckel canvas duffel bags, such as our spacious 46L Peace & War Duffel and our 28L Possibilities Duffel, and discover the perfect fit for your adventures and travels.