05/21/2013
Practical and Fashionable. Why Everyone Needs a Duffel Bag
Custom
design duffel bags are an excellent way of making yourself stand out
from the crowd, whether you are backpacking across Europe or simply
going to the mall. As well as being able to choose the fastening you
want, a wealth of fabrics and sizes ensure that you are unlikely to bump
into anyone with a bag identical to yours – after all, customization is
the ultimate way to avoid a clash!
As
well as being a great accessory, duffel bags are totally versatile and
can be used for a number of different things. Foam rubber linings can
help musicians carry delicate instruments from home to class, whereas a
heavy canvas exterior will allow you to climb rock walls or transport
heavy objects without worrying about any tears or damage.
The History of the Duffel Bag
The duffel bag got its name from the Belgian town Duffel, which produced
the thick, heavy fabric used in the original design. They became
popular fashion statements in America after World War II, thanks to the
number of military personnel who used the lightweight yet durable bags
to carry their belongings from one site to the next.
However,
in the 1940s and 1950s the duffel bag was adopted by surfers in
California who spotted ex-Navy sailors carrying them around and decided
to get in on the action. They found the bags to be perfect for storing
towels and non-waterproof personal belongings while catching waves, and
decorated them in bright colors so they stood out against the sand. This
is probably where the craze for customizing duffel bags originated.
Why do I need a Duffel Bag?
It’s true that the duffel bag has become something of an everyday item
rather than the fashion piece it once was, but its potential should
never be underestimated. A medium sized duffel with a shoulder strap is
the perfect accessory for the busy but fashionable college student to be
able to read on the go –
especially if a cute buckle fastening on top of a floral pattern is
used to stay on trend this summer. It can also double up as a beach bag
for spontaneous parties because, let’s face it, a pretty bag should be
used for more than carrying around textbooks! After college, the duffel
bag can once again become your best friend if you want to travel. Saving
money on airplane baggage checking by
cramming everything into a standard sized duffel means you have more to
spend at your destination and also means no dragging a heavy wheeled
suitcase around the plains of Africa or European capital cities.
Bags for Specific Needs
Of course, the versatility and reputation of the duffel bag as an
“outdoors” accessory has made it hugely popular with sportsmen and
women. Snowboarders, scuba divers and fishermen tend to prefer
waterproofed canvas with enough space for a lot of equipment, while Yoga
practitioners prefer a light weight material in a pastel shade.
When
going on a camping trip the duffel bag can carry everything you need to
set up comfortably, from folding chairs and extra clothes to matches and firewood. An added bonus is the strength of the fabric being able to take the weight of a sleeping bag and tent attached.
However, the true proof that these bags great value is the fact that, to
this day, serving forces in the United States Military use them. The
Army duffel has soft sides which allow for expansion, while the tough
canvas exterior protects a soldier’s possessions in even
the toughest conditions. Because of the need to travel light, these bags
usually contain essentials which can help feed, clothe and treat
injuries for several days. US Army standard duffels are top-loading with
a drawstring or heavy duty zipper, and have a long strap for slinging
the bag across your back. Guides now exist explaining how to properly pack a duffel bag in military style, which will certainly be useful for budding travelers!
So
no matter whether you want to carry your school books around stylishly
or need something reliable to protect your possessions while hitting the
slopes on a ski trip, the duffel bag will never let you down. Spending a
few bucks customizing your own may be one of the best investments you
ever make.