Military duffles. If you don't have any ex-military in the family, go to a surplus store. They're recognizable, can be packed with as much or little as required, are sturdy as all get out and almost impossible to overpack as long as it's only clothes, shoes and bedding (mine was 49.5 pounds once, every other time it's varied between 42 and 47). They last forever, fit all train, bus and plane size restrictions. Best of all, when they get dirty, turn them wrong-side out and clip the hook to the tongue, and they're washable in any laundromat.

My kids are required 2 soft sided bads for overnight camp. they go for two weeks, but you pack what is needed for a week (because laundry is done). I got them each rolling duffles from Ranger Surplus. They have used them for two summers now and they have worked out great. FWIW, if your child needs linens chances are they will need two duffles.

1 week camp...

Do you have to send pillows, linens, blankets? That stuff takes up a ton of room.

We have put off for getting luggage for duffle bags for the kids. We find it easier to have less bags when we travel and their stuff gets thrown in with ours.

The kids are going to camp this summer and will need something that will support them for a week. I am thinking of investing in something that will last for a while like a North Face Base Camp bag. I like this since it has the option of using it like a duffle as well as shoulder straps.

Parents with teens - any thoughts on purchasing a good duffle? Worth it or do the kids needs change so much that it is a waste.

Thanks for any feedback.