Most of us would agree that weekend getaways are an essential part of what makes summer summer. The weather is (usually) pristine and there's nothing better than traipsing off to the cottage or a neighbouring city for a long weekend of relaxing or exploration.
I recall a summer in which I tossed my weekend necessities into what I thought was a perfectly respectable bag for three days at the cottage. The bag in question was essentially a fancy grocery bag and I was teased relentlessly for five minutes for not owning some form of weekender bag.
After that, the hunt was on and I’m now the proud owner of a buttery leather chestnut hued bag with a long leather strap that I routinely take on weekend and overseas trips. It’s served me well.
So, before you take your grocery bag to the cottage, think again. (Although if that's your thing, carry on.) Here are some options for your own weekender bag hunt.
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Best Weekender Bags
This menswear-inspired Crest Bag is made of 100 per cent cowhide so you can rest assured it will be with you for many years to come. We also love the double handles and adjustable leather strap for ease of travel.
Roots Large Banff Bag, $398
This timeless bag is Canadian-made from 100 per cent Italian leather (we expect nothing less from our favourite Canadian retailer). The vintage looking weekender bag is like a fine wine; it only gets better with age.
If you want options, you’ve found it with this Le Sportsac weekender bag. The large tote is spacious and inexpensive for those who don’t want to invest in a fancy travel bag. Fifty one patterns are available with everything from fun flamingos to solid black for the minimalist.
The vintage buff will probably give their left leg for this unique weekender. The old world aesthetic along with the easy functionality will garner a lot of compliments. We guarantee it!
Etienne Aigner’s bags are refined and luxurious and their Opaline Satchel is no exception. This is the perfect weekender for the woman looking for an interchangeable hand and travel bag. The satchel expands to store more for weekends away but can be zipped back up to serve as a day bag. Sounds like the ideal tote to us!
Herschel Supply Novel Duffle, $79.99
Vancouver-based travel goods company Herschel Supply Co. is the place to go if you’re looking for a classic or not-so-classic duffel bag for all your travel needs. Their Novel Duffel bag comes in a variety of fun patterns and features their signature slot for shoes.
This classic duffel is ideal for a minimalist as it doesn’t feature any frills—just a strong sturdy bag with an understated elegance.
Everlane’s suede travel bag is a surprisingly good companion for a weekend of messy outdoor activity because of its water resistant exterior. It’s also another inexpensive option that refuses to sacrifice style and quality.
Longchamp Le Foulonné, Price Upon Request
Longchamp has created the perfect bag for the sophisticated traveler. The rectangular bag features numerous compartments for easy organization and is available in a variety of shapes and colours.
Vera Bradley Weekender, $109.35
Vera Bradley’s playful weekender bag is versatile with convenient exterior pockets to carry items like your passport and boarding passes.
If a handheld bag isn’t your style, M0851 has a great alternative in a sleek leather backpack large enough for all your weekend essentials.
Boho ladies rejoice! Stela 9 has the perfect weekend duffel bag for you. Not only is it super cute and holds all your essentials but the Mayan-inspired bag also contributes to the sustainability of the indigenous communities of Latin America and India.
Kauffmann Mercantile Canvas Tool Bag, $109.35
While not labeled “weekender bag” per se, this beautiful white and tan canvas tote is big and sturdy enough to hold all your belongings for a few days. The bottom is supported by top grain cowhide leather so you won’t have to worry about it falling apart. (Hey, if it can carry your tools, we’re pretty sure it can handle your shorts and t-shirts.)
Baggu Weekend Bag, $72
The name says it all. Baggu’s variety of colourful weekender bags are made of a heavy-weight canvas with the added benefit of being eco-friendly.
The Mesa Weekender is another pretty eco-friendly bag for those who want to leave a soft footprint. We love the contrast of pattern and rich leather detailing.