7 DIY Travel Bag Patterns So You Can Travel In Style

Have you ever noticed that when you are shopping for various travel bags, there are two options? You can get cheaply made nylon bags or extremely overpriced “bland” looking bags. 

But how do we get around these two options? The answer is simple: DIY travel bags.

Today, I want to go over the different types of travel bags and supplies and how to create them, and then show you some beautiful travel bag patterns that you can use to create your traveling accessories. 

Types of Travel Bags

Before we jump into the how-to or the patterns list, I want to go over the different kinds of bags categorized as “travel bags.” Remember that this post focuses on travel bags you can create, not factory-made luggage. 

• Duffle bag
• Jewelry bag
• Shoe bag
• Makeup bag
• Toiletry bag
• Garment bag
• Travel tote
• Backpack 

Supplies You Will Need to Make Your Own Travel Bag

The supplies you will need will vary depending on the specific item you are making. The following list will include various notions and supplies you will need to make different travel bags.

• Travel bag sewing pattern
• Fabric
• Interfacing for structure
• Zippers
• D-rings
• Straps
• Velcro
• Buttons
• Snaps
• Bias tape
• Trimming (optional for decoration)
• Scissors or rotary cutter and mat
• Sewing machine
• Thread

How Do You Make a Travel Bag?

Now that we know the different types of travel bags and the supplies we may need to create them let’s go over the steps of making a travel bag.

I recommend using a pattern when doing a project like this since it will have detailed instructions for the different steps. These are essential steps to give you an idea of what’s involved when making a large bag.

• Step 1: Choose a pattern

When looking for the perfect pattern, you want to make sure you are looking for one that is within your skill level and will meet your traveling needs. There are thousands of travel bag patterns available on the market, so you shouldn’t have a problem finding something that will work for you. 

• Step 2: Cut all fabric and interfacing pieces

The pattern you choose either has specific cutting instructions or may even come with templates you can use to cut the fabric pieces you will need. Remember the age-old tip: “measure twice, cut once.”

• Step 3: Attach notions to the fabric pieces

Where you add the notions will vary depending on which ones you are using and when the pattern tells you to add them. I wanted to include this so you can think about when you need to add them. There’s nothing more frustrating than realizing you forgot to add a D-ring or other notions and have to take apart part of your project and add it. *Speaking from personal experience*

• Step 4: Sew the exterior pieces together

The pattern writer will do a great job of explaining how to do this step. Ensure you keep your raw edges lined up at all times to ensure an even seam allowance.

• Step 5: Create and attach the straps

This is a fun step; you can make straps from various materials like canvas, leather, quilting cotton, denim, nylon strapping, etc. Some patterns will have you attach the straps before you sew the lining and exterior parts together. Others will have you connect them to the exterior first.

• Step 6: Sew the lining pieces together

This step will be where you add pockets for the bag’s interior and create the lining. I like to use a fun, funky fabric inside my bags. It gives it a little more personality and pizazz. 

Tip: If you use a weekender bag pattern and want a sizeable wide-open bag, you can skip creating a lining. To conceal the raw edges of the exterior parts, take bias tape and sew it along all the raw edges. This will give the bag a more finished look; plus, when you wash it, the edges won’t unravel. 

• Step 7: Sew the lining and exterior parts together

This final step is always exciting since you see the entire bag come together. Follow the instructions in the pattern you’ve used to complete the bag. Once you’ve finished the bag, take a moment to admire your work and show it off to your friends and family!

7 Travel Bag Patterns For You To Peruse

For this compilation, I tried to find a good selection of travel bag patterns to give you a glimpse into what is possible with a bit of fabric, thread, and imagination. Without further ado, let’s dive into this fun collection!

1. Rollie Pollie Organizer

You can use this fun little organizer to store all kinds of things for your trip, from toiletries to makeup to jewelry. This toiletry bag sewing pattern includes instructions and templates to create this unique roll-up organizer. It features four removable pouches, and the pattern has instructions for three different sizes. The skill level for this project is intermediate. 

2. Convertible Travel Bag

How cute is this convertible bag? This bag would be great if you are planning a day trip to the city or if you want to take your laptop to the local coffee shop to do some work. The maker of this bag used an existing messenger bag pattern and made some changes to the straps to make it convertible. The straps can be used either as a messenger bag or backpack. 

3. DIY Easy Makeup Bag

Here is a free tutorial to make this cute pleated makeup bag. The maker gives a supplies list, written instructions with photos, and a YouTube video to accompany the tutorial. The finished bag will measure approximately 9”x5”x5”, the perfect size for travel. 

4. Retro Travel Bag

I found this pattern on Etsy in the shop PolkaDotChair. The pattern will show you how to create your duffel bag that measures 20”x11”x6”. The pattern includes templates and gives you three different strap options depending on what look you are going for with your bag. 

5. Got Your Back 2.1

This backpack pattern might be the right choice if you like to travel light. The backpack has multiple pockets to store items and keep your things organized while traveling and has a convenient handle on top if you don’t want to put it on your back while walking around. The finished size of the backpack is 14”x12”6”.

6. Divide and Conquer

This pattern is perfect for those who like to organize their belongings while traveling. There are two size options for you and optional straps for carrying. You could use this bag for toiletries, makeup, craft supplies, electronics, kid’s toys, etc. 

7. Townsend Travel Bag

This beautiful bag can be made using the Townsend Travel Bag sewing pattern. You can tell the designer pays attention to detail by the professional finishes of this bag. Adding the train case bottom is a massive bonus if you need to bring shoes or other bulky items with you. You can use it for an overnight bag, carry-on, diaper bag, or gym bag, to name a few options. The final measurements of this bag are 16”x13”x6”.

I hope you enjoyed this group of travel bag patterns. I want to make a complete set of luggage for my next trip! How about you? Which bag was your favorite? Let me know in the comments below. 

Happy Stitching!