Creative Uses for Duffel Bags. From storage to moving, the versatile duffel can be used for more than just travel. Duffels may not be as visually appealing as shiny, new-wheeled suitcases or as rugged as the ORV Trunk, but they’re super-reliable and versatile, too. Many travelers carry duffel bags as carry-on luggage because they’re flexible enough to fit in those overhead bins, and roomy enough to stuff all those souvenirs.