As someone who travels a lot for work, getting to try out plenty of the best suitcases and best carry-ons definitely has its perks. It also means I’ve built up a strong sense of which brands really deliver time and again, and if there's one that always does, it has to be Antler.
The brand has just launched its first hybrid holdall, the Discovery Wheeled Duffel, designed for travellers who want flexibility without sacrificing comfort. It’s part of the Discovery collection and arrived alongside a new 45-litre Discovery Backpack, a larger version of the 28-litre model we reviewed last year.
The wheeled duffel landed on my doorstep late last week, and within hours I was heading to the Yorkshire Dales to put it through its paces.
Antler Discovery Wheeled Duffel review: price and availability
The Antler Discovery Wheeled Duffel is priced at £220 and comes in three colours – black, mustard yellow and dark forest green. It's available to buy via Antler’s online store, and orders are currently on pre-sale with shipping due between the 8th-10th October.
It should be noted that Antler is also offering 20% off if you spend £250 or more, which helps soften the price tag.
Antler Discovery Wheeled Duffel review: design and features
The Antler Discovery Wheeled Duffel stands out for its thoughtful design, particularly when it comes to durability and movability. It features a tough hard shell back panel that prevents scuffs, whilst the front is made from recycled, water-repellent fabric that flexes for easier packing.
Compression straps and adjustable buckles keep everything tight, and side handles make it easy to grab and stash quickly. I’m not usually a fan of space maximisers in luggage, especially as I always end up overpacking anyway, but I love now Antler's adjustable straps let you decide exactly how much extra space you want.
The bag also features oversized rubber wheels, as well as a comfort-grip handle, quick-access drop pocket, side pocket, and internal divider for organisation
Inside, there’s a high-quality lining, two compartments, and extra compression straps to keep everything neat. At 73 × 32 × 40 cm, weighing just over 3kg, and offering an 80-litre capacity, it’s ideal for a week to 10 days away. My partner and I both shared it for a weekend trip and had more than enough room.
Antler Discovery Wheeled Duffel review: performance
After three full days of use, I came away from testing the Antler Discovery Wheeled Duffel genuinely impressed. I’ve tried plenty of Antler luggage before and know the brand has a reputation for quality, but the Discovery Wheeled Duffel still managed to exceed expectations.
At just over £200, it’s not exactly budget, but you can immediately feel the difference compared to cheaper luggage. Even packing, which I usually dread, was easier and more satisfying thanks to the thoughtful compartments and extra features.
As mentioned, the standout feature for me was how smoothly the wheels moved. It’s something you notice straight away, and when my partner (who never usually comments on luggage) pointed it out too, I knew it wasn’t just me.
The handle was also comfortable to hold throughout the trip, which might seem like a small detail but is actually one of those underrated features that makes a big difference when you’re travelling.
That said, it is a big bag. With an 80-litre capacity, it’s perfect for week-long (or longer) trips, but probably overkill for anything less than five days.
Personally, I’d love to see a smaller 40 or 50-litre version for short breaks, though given the expansion of the Discovery line, this could already be on Antler’s radar. Still, the fact that this is my only real gripe speaks volumes, and I’d happily recommend it to anyone looking for a versatile, durable travel bag.
Antler Discovery Wheeled Duffel review: verdict
The Antler Discovery Wheeled Duffel blends the flexibility of a holdall with the sturdiness of a suitcase, featuring a hard shell back, water-repellent fabric front, and plenty of practical extras like compression straps and handy pockets. Inside, its 80-litre capacity and divided compartments make it ideal for week-long trips, whilst the oversized rubber wheels and comfort-grip handle stand out for smooth, easy movement. Its £220 price tag means it’s not cheap, but the build quality makes it worth the investment. The only drawback is that the capacity can be excessive for shorter breaks, but overall, it’s a durable, versatile bag I’d recommend to frequent travellers.
Antler Discovery Wheeled Duffel review: alternatives to consider
If you’d rather go for a hard-shell carry-on, the Gomatic Method Carry-On is a fantastic alternative, especially with its ultra-smooth 360° wheels.
If you’d prefer to stay with Antler, the Icon Stripe is another strong option. It’s a little more affordable and comes in a wider range of colours, though it is more prone to scuffs compared to the Discovery Wheeled Duffel.
