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Samsonite Better Than Basics Drop Bottom Weekender Duffel Bag Review

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Samsonite Better Than Basics Drop Bottom Weekender Duffel Bag Review

Is the Samsonite Better Than Basics Drop Bottom Weekender Duffel Bag too big to count as a personal item on an airplane? Yes. Have I snuck it on as one anyway and successfully jammed it under a seat? Also yes. This weekender is the perfect size for short trips, as a carry-on, or even a personal item depending on how much of an overpacker you are.

With a drop bottom compartment for shoes, a smart sleeve suitcase pass-through, and plenty of pockets, this duffel has become my go-to for everything from weekend trips to a gym bag for work. 

Here’s my honest review of the Samsonite Better Than Basics Drop Bottom Weekender Duffel Bag.

Samsonite Better Than Basics Drop Bottom Weekender Duffel Bag

Samsonite Better Than Basics Drop Bottom Weekender Duffel Bag Size

Overall DimensionsWeightPrice
18.9” H x 14.2” L x 9.8” W2.9 lbs$99.99

Samsonite Weekend Bag Review

Samsonite Better Than Basics Drop Bottom Weekender Duffel Bag Inside

Pros

  • Perfect size for a weekend trip
  • Holds a surprising amount of stuff
  • Drop bottom is great for shoes and can fit two pairs (or more if you’re bringing flats or sandals)
  • 14” laptop compartment
  • Exterior front pocket
  • Three pockets on the inside (one zippered and two slip pockets)
  • Adjustable, detachable, padded shoulder strap
  • Suitcase sleeve so you can carry it on wheeled luggage
  • Stylish look
  • Polyester fabric wipes clean easily
  • Firm, flat, footed bottom helps the bag stay stable and open, making it easier to pack

Cons

  • Weighing just under 2.9 lbs, this is a bit heavy for a duffel bag. 
  • Can be heavy to carry over your shoulder if you’ve packed a lot
  • Only available in navy, grey, and black

Overall Verdict

Samsonite Better Than Basics Drop Bottom Weekender Duffel Bag Features

I’m usually not a big fan of duffel bags for travel—I tend to prefer a rolling suitcase and don’t like how duffel bags can turn into a mess on the inside with no organization. However, for short trips, I feel a bit silly showing up with a carry-on suitcase, and I also like duffel bags for trips where I’m taking the train and have to deal with public transportation/a lot of stairs. 

I decided to test out Samsonite’s Better Than Basic Weekender because it has rave reviews online, and I have to say that it lived up to the hype. This weekender solves almost all of the things I hate about duffel bags—the drop bottom is great for keeping shoes or dirty clothes separated, and there are a ton of pockets inside so you don’t have to dig around to find your charger. I also really appreciated the exterior pocket, where I can stash everything I need easily accessible (like headphones and my Kindle). 

The padded shoulder straps make the bag comfortable to carry, but if you’ve packed it super full, it’s still going to feel heavy if you’re walking for long distances. 

I brought this weekender on a number of flights, and it was within the airline size requirements for a carry-on every time. I even snuck it on as a personal item a few times (even though it’s technically too big for that) and no one said anything. 

Price and Where to Buy

The weekender costs $99.99 on Samsonite’s website, however, I found mine on sale at Macy’s for $79.99 after promo codes. I’ve seen this bag go on sale at Kohl’s fairly frequently as well, so I recommend watching for a deal rather than buying full price.

Other Drop Bottom Weekender Duffel Bags We Recommend

If you just like the bottom drop compartment of this duffel bag, there are plenty of cheaper weekender options out there.

Read our other luggage reviews, including:

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