How to Choose a Weekender Bag for Carry-On Travel

Quick answer

To choose a weekender bag for carry-on travel, focus on airline size limits, durable materials, and a design that separates shoes from clothes. The Lo & Sons Catalina Deluxe Tote and Del Mar Packable Tote both meet these needs for different travel styles.

How to Choose Your Carry-On Weekender

1. 1. Check Airline Size Limits: Measure your bag's dimensions (height, width, depth) against your airline's carry-on policy. Most allow 22 x 14 x 9 inches. The Catalina Deluxe Tote and Del Mar Packable Tote both fit within typical limits, but verify for your specific airline. Always confirm the airline's size restrictions before you pack; many budget carriers have smaller limits.
2. 2. Choose a Material That Fits Your Trip: For rugged durability and structure, pick 600D recycled polyester (Catalina Deluxe Tote). For lightweight packability and water resistance, choose Tyvek (Del Mar Packable Tote). If you need a structured bag with a shoe compartment but don't mind a bit more weight, go with eco-friendly canvas (Catalina Deluxe Large). If your trip involves hiking or rough handling, avoid Tyvek; it's less abrasion-resistant.
3. 3. Prioritize Shoe Separation: Look for a bag with a dedicated bottom compartment or shoe pocket. The Catalina Deluxe line has a zippered bottom pocket with a removable padded insert that keeps shoes separate from clothes. If your bag lacks this, use a shoe bag or plastic bag inside the main compartment. A shoe compartment is worth the extra weight; it saves you from dirty clothes and lost shoe bags.
4. 4. Test the Packing Capacity: Pack your weekender with the items you'd bring for a weekend trip: 2 outfits, toiletries, shoes, and a light jacket. If it overflows or bulges, it's too small. The Catalina Deluxe Tote holds enough for 1-2 nights; the Large version fits 2-3 nights. The Del Mar Packable Tote is best as a secondary bag or for a day trip. If you overpack, your bag may not fit under the seat or in the overhead bin.
5. 5. Consider Versatility and Storage: If you want a bag that works for travel and everyday use, the Catalina Deluxe Tote is a great choice with its durable build and shoe compartment. If you need a lightweight backup bag for shopping or beach trips, the Del Mar Packable Tote folds into a small pouch and can be stashed in your main luggage. For maximum versatility, own both: a structured weekender for main travel and a packable tote for day excursions.

Products That Help

• Catalina Deluxe Tote - 600D Recycled Poly - Black: The Catalina Deluxe Tote is a smaller edition of the original weekender bag, featuring a bottom shoe compartment and made from eco-friendly 600D recycled polyester. It gives you the shoe separation you need in a compact, carry-on-friendly size, perfect for a 1-2 night trip.

  

• Del Mar Packable Tote Small - Tyvek - Navy Fruit: The Del Mar Packable Tote is lightweight, packable, and water-resistant, with removable pouches for adaptability. Ideal as a secondary bag or for day trips, it packs down small so you can stash it in your suitcase and use it for groceries or beach outings.