How to Build a Travel Capsule with Just 3 Bags

Is your trip packing starting to feel like a chore? It doesn’t have to be. In fact, with the right approach (read: the right bags), you can breeze through busy airports, stay effortlessly stylish on the go, and avoid lugging around half your wardrobe.

Capsule wardrobes aren’t just for your day-to-day at home. By applying this minimalist approach to your travels, you’ll save valuable time and effort, which means more time to enjoy your holiday.

Here are the best ways to build a travel capsule using three versatile travel bags.

Overpacking is the oldest travel mistake. Dragging multiple suitcases across cobblestoned streets or trying to zip a bulging duffle bag at 2 am isn’t chic - it’s chaos.

But whether you’re a minimalist, or just someone looking to lessen the load while travelling, you can eliminate the stress of overstuffed suitcases with just three solid pieces of luggage. Less time wrestling zips, more time enjoying the journey.

The trio that you need for your trip is:

• Suitcase for your clothing and bulky essentials

• Weekender bag or duffle bag for the in-betweens

• An everyday bag, like a tote or crossbody, to keep your must-haves close at hand

It’s a formula that works whether you’re jetting off for a long weekend, a business trip, or a multi-stop adventure.

Building a travel capsule wardrobe is less about restriction and more about intention. Every item should be versatile, able to mix and match, and pull double duty.

Your travel luggage should echo the same sentiment: functionality first, flexibility always. Just like your outfits, your bags should be able to adapt to different outings, settings, and stages of your trip. The beauty of the capsule approach is that you’ll never feel weighed down - you'll only feel elevated.

The easy rolling and sleek build of the Nere Stori makes it an ideal women’s suitcase, while men often choose the strong, textured Flylite Juniper.

Here’s how the 3-bag capsule plays out:

• Suitcase – Load it with clothing, jackets, and bulkier pieces you won’t need until you land. Choose a sturdy design that you can check in, keeping the heavy lifting out of your hands.

• Weekender – Perfect for shoes, skincare, tech gear, and a spare outfit. It’s a flexible bag for all the things that don’t go in a suitcase.

• Everyday Bag – Keep all your essentials, like your passport, wallet, headphones, lip balm, and water bottle, all within reach. It’s the bag that travels with you, not behind you.

Together, these travel bags tick every box of most airlines’ check-in + carry-on + personal item policy, so you’ll never be caught in a repack-at-the-airport moment.

Build your Travel Capsule with Strand

A travel capsule wardrobe is about choosing fewer bags that go the extra mile. With the right suitcase, weekender and everyday bag, your next adventure will feel as effortless as it looks.

Shop the full range of travel bags today at Strand.