Duffels Choosing a duffel is based on your trip. If your bag will be carried by a porter or a pack animal, or is purely for travel, get a robust duffel that can handle some abuse. Look for large zippers, sturdy handles, and a reinforced base. When pulling the duffel in a sled attached to your pack, our guides perfer a light nylon duffel to save weight. These duffels form best to the sled, therefore making them more stable when being pulled.\r\nGuide Tip Look for a Duffel with handles that double as shoulder straps, or one with separate shoulder straps, so you can carry it like a regular backpack. This is especially helpful when traveling through airports and getting to the base of the mountain.