15 Best Pilot Flight Bags in 2022 (Reviews & Buyer’s Guide)

best-pilot-flight-bags

If you are a pilot or aspiring to become one, you’ll want to find a good flight bag for your career in the skies. You’ll need to find the best flight bag to hold all your belongings so that you can easily access them during your flight. Today we’re going to share what you should look for when comparing flight bags, and we will show you a wide variety of bags with different prices and styles. If you are a student pilot, you’ll also find many of these bags to be suitable for storing your textbooks. After extensive testing and research, we’ve compiled this list of the best pilot flight bags for you, as well as a buyer’s guide at the end of this article.

15 Best Pilot Flight Bags to Buy in 2022

1. MYGOFLIGHT PLC Lite Nylon Aviation Flight Bag

This is one of the best flight bags on the market, consistently rated highly by users. It’s designed to store your electronic devices, such as an iPad, as well as being a water resistant and hardwearing pilot bag. You’ll appreciate the included three-year warranty with your purchase which makes investing in this high-quality bag a good option that will last you for years to come.

Materials & Design

The exterior of the flight bag is made from water resistant ballistic nylon, which gives the bag the ability to stand by itself. The interior of the carrier is created using rip-stop nylon. It’s the perfect size for long days out at 14 x 11 x 6 inches. The weight of this flight bag is just under 2 lbs, making it lightweight and easy to carry around the airport. It’s very comparable to other popular bags such as the HP crosswind.

Storing & Carrying

With a laptop compartment specifically designed for your electronic device or iPad, either of these devices will be well protected when you’re on the move. The pocket’s dimensions are 13 x 8.75 x 3 inches, meaning it can hold a good size device. You’ll appreciate the interior pockets for your headset, as well as a separate organizer pocket for your charts or books. To carry the bag, either use the shoulder strap or the top carry handle, which is well padded for your comfort.

Pros

  • Your electronics such as your iPad will be secure thanks to the separate compartment
  • There is an organizer pocket designed to protect your books and charts, making it ideal for student pilots
  • Made from water resistant nylon

Cons

  • Over $100 in price, so not the cheapest option on the market for students
  • Can only fit a laptop with a 13-inch screen

 

 

2. Flight Outfitters Bush Pilot Folio Briefcase Bag

Flight Outfitters have created this classic canvas bag, which is one of the best flight bag options for those looking for a versatile carrying solution. You can easily fit your iPad or tablet in the dedicated pocket, and your screen will be well protected. The shoulder strap makes carrying comfortable and easy for traveling through the airport in a rush.

Materials & Design

This Flight Outfitters bag is made from canvas and has leather accents, giving it a timeless and stylish look. It can fit a laptop up to 15 inches in width, as well as a tablet of up to 10.5 inches in width such as the iPad Pro. You’ll appreciate the padded material that protects your device from damage as well as the sturdy fixtures and buckles used throughout the bag.

Storing & Carrying

This is one of the top flight bags for student pilots looking to invest in their profession and will last you throughout your career. You’re able to store your laptop and iPad in this flight gear bag, and it’s easy to access any of your belongings from one of the many pocket options if you are in a rush. There are three different flap pockets for storing your smaller items such as cables and battery packs.

Pros

  • A classic, timeless design thanks to the leather and canvas material and fixtures
  • Plenty of space to store your personal items including electronic devices
  • Adjustable shoulder strap

Cons

  • Could do with an extra few inches of space in the bag to comfortably fit a water bottle in the main compartment

 

3. Lightspeed Aviation – The Gann, Leather Flight Bag

This Lightspeed Aviation bag is a classic piece from the renowned brand. You’ll appreciate the high quality of this bag and the craftsmanship that’s gone into its design. There is a large main compartment, as well as a space specifically designed for your iPad. With a 30-day guarantee and one-year warranty, you are in safe hands making this purchase.

Materials & Design

Made from high-quality leather, this Lightspeed Aviation The Gann bag is made from full-grain, oiled South American cowhide. Its beautiful espresso brown color is bound to turn heads and is a fashionable and stylish piece to add to your uniform. Leather bags become more supple after years of use and wear, and each of these bags has a unique pattern and look. There are plenty of pockets to store your belongings, and the bag’s dimensions are 16 x 13.5 x 6 inches.

Storing & Carrying

There are many different pockets and compartments to choose from on this bag, and the main compartment features its own iPad pocket. There’s a front pocket designed to keep your smaller belongings well organized, as well as a back pocket for your documents and charts, so you won’t be in trouble if you are looking for a table of contents or important information in an emergency. Finally, there’s a good size transceiver pocket, with a flap to allow storage with the antenna on.

Pros

  • Made from oiled South American cowhide
  • There is a unique pattern and look to each The Gann bag thanks to the leather material
  • Separate iPad pocket in the main compartment

Cons

  • One of the more expensive options due to it being a leather bag
  • Only available in espresso brown, which may not appeal to everyone

 

 

4. Design 4 Pilots Brand Pilot Bag Cross Country Flight Bag

Designed specifically for pilots, this is a lightweight bag that’s extremely high quality and intended for an extended period of use. Your belongings are well-protected thanks to the padding in this bag, and you’ll find a compartment for every single item, including fuel testers and flight plans. It’s best for experienced pilots who like to carry their belongings around in a comfortable manner. For pilots looking for a compact bag to update their current storage solution, this is the best option to combine good quality and a reasonable price point.

Materials & Design

Made from lightweight nylon, this is a high quality carrier. Inside, you’ll find the compartments to be fully padded, protecting anything you choose to store inside. You’ll appreciate the well thought out design, which combines functionality with a stylish design.

Storing & Carrying

There are multiple compartments within this bag, similar to the Flight Gear HP bag that is very popular. It has two outside pockets, as well as separate storage solutions for your charts and radio. The handles are comfortable for carrying when in a rush, but the better option is the shoulder strap, which is padded and is also non-slip.

Pros

  • Lightweight bag made from nylon
  • Multiple pockets and compartments for storing everything you need on your journey
  • Compact size for storing in the cockpit

Cons

  • While not the most expensive option, it still costs over $100

 

 

5. BrightLine Bags Unisex-Adult Flex B4 Swift Echo Bag

The B4 Swift is another fantastic bag from BrightLine Bags that has enough space to fit all of your belongings for your trips. It has a unique design that allows you to store multiple pieces of gear within the various compartments. Your fuel testers, headsets and anything else from the pilot shop will be safe and sound within this bag on any long trips you need to take.

Materials & Design

Made from 100% other fibers, this bag is made in the USA and has a unique and functional design. The storage depth of this bag is four inches, allowing you to store plenty of belongings in this bag, which is a great alternative to other crosswind bag options on the market. It features a belt closure, keeping your gear safe and secure while on the move.

Storing & Carrying

The B4 Swift can hold up to two headsets of full-size, as well as your iPad and charts on top. Your smaller pieces of gear will be safe and sound in this bag, thanks to the two thinner storage areas between the modules. The carry handle is incredibly sturdy and comfortable to hold as you are rushing to your next flight.

Pros

  • Unique design which will easily carry all of your flight gear
  • Perfect for private pilots or anyone looking for multiple organizer pockets

Cons

  • Costly option, due to the amount of storage space and pockets involved in this flight bag
  • No specific water bottle holder

 

 

6. Flight Outfitters Lift Flight Bag

Flight Outfitters have created this stylish and functional Flight Outfitters Lift flight bag that contains everything you need for good organization on your next trip. With all the essential compartments and holders, you’ll keep your personal belongings well organized. Their products are renowned for their durability and ruggedness, and this bag will be an investment that you’ll enjoy using for years to come.

Materials & Design

Made from hardwearing materials that will give you years of use, this bag is carefully designed to look after your personal belongings and is ideal for student pilots. Its dimensions are 12 x 10.5 x 9 inches, and you’ll appreciate the multiple pockets designed specifically with airline pilots in mind. The accessory pockets for electronics are linked with fleece, keeping your devices fully protected while on the move. The headset pocket is also fleece-lined and contains elastic loops which can hold additional batteries for your ANR headset.

Storing & Carrying

This pilot bag is incredibly comfortable to wear thanks to the adjustable strap. When you are in a rush, simply pick the bag up by its carry handle, which is reinforced with braided wire. There’s a specific pocket for your water bottle or back-up radio, as well as two exterior pockets for your charts. Finally, you’ll appreciate the fuel tester pocket as well as the four organizer pocket sections for your cables.

Pros

  • The Flight Outfitters Lift bag is a hardwearing bag with a stylish and functional design
  • Multiple compartment options for all your smaller items

Cons

  • Only available in one color choice and design

 

 

7. S Babila Top Grain Leather Wheeled Pilot Case

This is the top-rated wheeled case for pilots on our list, and many people consider replacing their classic Flight Gear HP iPad bag with something like this when they are fed up of carrying it around. You’ll fit up to a 16-inch device in the main compartment’s pocket, as well as having a separate tablet pocket for a second device. It’s a great size case which is still compact enough to store in the cockpit of any plane.

Materials & Design

This high-quality case is made from top-grain leather, meaning it is a durable piece that is a worthwhile investment for your flying career. Available in black and in just one design, it’s a classic piece that you’ll get years of use out of. The dimensions of this bag are 9.26 x 14.57 x 17.72 inches. One stand out feature of this case is the additional curb protection from the plastic pieces attached, as well as the plastic feet on the bottom of the case to protect the leather on the base.

Storing & Carrying

With multiple pockets and compartments to choose from, you can easily store a tablet and another device with plenty of room to spare. The main compartment fits up to a 16″ device, so you’ll be ready for work when you’re on the go. There’s a pen holder for three pens inside the lid, which means you’ll always have one ready to pull out when you’re in a rush. The filing compartment at the front is lockable, ensuring any valuable paperwork will be secure when you are on the go. There’s also a small pocket for your phone, so you can have easy access to it as soon as you land.

Pros

  • One of the top-rated wheeling cases, which will take pressure off your shoulders and back while you’re on the go
  • Multiple compartments for storing valuables, including an electronic device up to 16 inches in size
  • Made from top-grain leather, so will last for many years to come

Cons

  • One of the most expensive products on the market, coming in at over $300
  • Rolling bags can be a little bulkier than other pilot bags such as the Flight Gear HP iPad Bag, which is easier to store

 

 

8. Brightline Bags Flex B7 Flight Preconfigured Modular Bag

The Flex B7 flight bag from BrightLine Bags is one of the most trusted bags for pilots and student pilots alike. This B7 flight bag offers an incredible selection of pockets for users, all of which are zipped and secure to look after your most precious belongings. You’ll appreciate the classic design of this modular carrier, making it one of the best flight bags for pilots.

Materials & Design

The B7 flight bag is a soft-sided carrier which has the ability to expand in every possible direction. With a classic black design and color, you’ll appreciate this modular bag and its unique FLEX system. Thanks to this design feature, you can customize the design to the size and shape you need on any given day, as we all know that no two days in the sky are the same. If you zip the two End Cap sections together, you’ll be able to transform this Flex B7 flight back into the slim B0 model.

Storing & Carrying

You’ll find this carrier is able to carry all of your charts as well as an iPad, making it a spacious and useful tool for your flying career. It’s also able to hold any smaller items, and thanks to the modular system, you’ll keep everything well organized and easy to find. The main compartment locks thanks to the zipper sliders, keeping your belongings safe and secure.

Pros

  • One of the most unique designs on the market, thanks to the FLEX system
  • A convertible design which can transform to any size you need
  • Lockable zipper sliders on the main compartment

Cons

  • One of the most expensive options on the market
  • It has a functional design which is not the most stylish option

 

 

9. Lightspeed Aviation – The Markham, Leather Flight Bag

For a classic flight bag, look no further than this leather flight bag. Available in a classic black color and design, you’ll appreciate the timeless look and feel of this piece. Your purchase is protected by a 30-day money-back guarantee, as well as a 1-year warranty.

Materials & Design

The Lightspeed Aviation The Markham is a leather bag that is made to last, and as we mentioned in our guide earlier, leather is an incredibly hardwearing material choice for a flight bag. You’ll appreciate the main compartment which is large enough to fit all your essentials in. This leather flight bag has a timeless appearance, and it will be part of your staple flight gear for years to come.

Storing & Carrying

The main compartment is zipped at the top and has plenty of room for your headset or anything else you may need to carry. There’s a pocket for your transceiver, which also has a leather strap for the antenna, and another side pocket for your water bottle. You’ll appreciate the front pocket which you can store all your small essential belongings which you need rapid access to. Finally, at the back, you’ll find a large pocket that can store an iPad or charts.

Pros

  • Leather bags are generally very long-lasting, and the Lightspeed Aviation The Markham is no exception
  • Plenty of compartments to choose from, and the back pocket can even store an iPad
  • Classic design that will last for many years

Cons

  • One of the most expensive options on the market at over $200
  • Only available in one color and design

 

 

10. Lifewit 17 Inch Pilot Bag

This flight bag from Lifewit offers incredible value for money. It’s a versatile carrier for your belongings that can be used on many occasions, so even when you are off duty, you’ll enjoy wearing this each day. It’s one of the lowest priced flight bags available, yet you would never believe it from its high quality and attractive appearance. It’s very comparable to a Flight Gear HP bag in design and style, but with a much lower price tag.

Materials & Design

Made from water-resistant nylon material, it’s one of the best options for traveling around the world to destinations where you’ll experience a wide range of climates. The SBS zippers are designed to last for years to come, and the seams of this bag are reinforced, making it one of the top flight bags available for pilots. It’s ideal for a student pilot, who will appreciate the price point but also enjoy years of use with this carrier.

Storing & Carrying

Your electronic devices will easily fit in the main compartment, which fits a device up to 17 inches in width. There’s also a section for your important files and books. The side pockets hold any size water bottle, and there are some super handy loops for hanging small accessories like sunglasses. The pockets on this bag are extremely versatile, and you will enjoy the update and extra space from your current flight gear bag. Your items will all find a new home in this bag and remain protected and safe regardless of where you are traveling and how turbulent the journey may be.

Pros

  • Multiple pockets for storing all of your items for your next flight
  • Fits a device up to 17 inches in size, making it one of the widest storage cases
  • Constructed from water-resistant nylon
  • Low cost

Cons

  • Straps are not as strong as on some other flight bags

 

 

11. Travelpro Crew Pilot Underseat Brief

Made from durable nylon, this flight gear bag from Travelpro is perfect for fitting under a seat. It’s stain and tear-resistant, and has an exterior pocket for easy access to your umbrella or water bottle. This is a good option for those looking for a more traditional design than other pilot flight bags, but will still have room enough to fit all your belongings in the interior and exterior pockets.

Materials & Design

Made from nylon, this best pilot bag option is made to last as the material is very high in density. It’s stain and tear-resistant with plenty of space for carrying gear wherever your next job assignment or posts take you.

Storing & Carrying

There are plenty of compartments to this carrier, which has a traditional design with a modern update for electronic devices and accessories. The zippers are created to withstand daily use and are hardwearing and long-lasting. The front pockets are easy to access in a rush, and you can store your smaller belongings here. There is an option for both a shoulder strap or hand strap for carrying, and it can easily fit around your main staircase for hands-free journeys.

Pros

  • Made from high-density nylon
  • Plenty of compartments for storage
  • Ideal for private pilots and student pilots due to the versatile design

Cons

  • Not many side pocket options
  • A more generic design than other flight bags such as the Flight Gear HP crosswind, which offer more specialized bags designed for pilots

 

 

12. Leather Pilot Case Flight Briefcase Bag

It’s always good to have a wheeled bag option available for pilots, and this bag will make moving through even the busiest of terminals a breeze. This case features plenty of storage space, including side pockets. You can fit a fuel tester and plenty of other items in this rolling bag.

Materials & Design

Made from leather, this bag features space to carry up to a 19-inch wide device, as well as an internal organizer pocket for your documents. The measurements for this bag are 48.5 x 27 x 38 cm, making it one of the largest options on the market and much bigger than even some of the most popular bags such as the Gear HP Crosswind bag.

Storing & Carrying

The external pockets will keep your items secure thanks to the velcro closures, ensuring your flight gear is safe while in transit. There’s also a small pocket under the main flap. For security, you’ll appreciate the combination lock on the main compartment, perfect for storing fuel testers and other important gear.

Pros

  • Makes traveling easy with the wheeled design
  • Plenty of storage space and it is one of the largest bags on this list for storing your gear

Cons

  • Bulkier bag and design than other pilot flight bags for fitting into smaller spaces in the cockpit

 

 

13. ASA AirClassics Flight Bag

For a classic, basic flight bag, check out this option from ASA Air Classics, designed with pilots in mind. With plenty of space for your fuel tester, electronics and any other gear you might need, you’ll appreciate the timeless look and durability of this bag. The front pocket and exterior pockets provide multiple storage opportunities for your gear.

Materials & Design

Made from 600D nylon, this classic flight gear bag offers plenty of space for pilots to store their most important items. You’ll appreciate the selection of pockets in this update to a very basic flight bag. It offers plenty of space to carry items that you need on any trip and is lightweight and easy to secure to your wheeled bag. Throughout the bag’s design, you’ll find straps that reinforce and strengthen this flight bag.

Storing & Carrying

There are two different choices for carrying; the comfortable handles which can be connected together, or the detachable strap for easy carrying. It’s a low-cost option which follows a similar concept to popular bags such as the Flight Gear HP Crosswind, but at an accessible price point for student pilots. One thing that is particularly unique about this flight bag is the addition of the adjustable dividers within the central pocket. The front pocket is ideal for your small items such as a flashlight or your fuel tester.

Pros

  • Spacious flight bag with dividers in the central pocket
  • A lightweight flight bag
  • Made from 600D nylon

Cons

  • Less stylish than other flight bags
  • Side pockets are small for a headset

 

 

14. Tassia Wheeled Pilot Case Rolling

For those who prefer not to carry their bags, this is the best alternative. You’ll enjoy wheeling your bag through the airport, while still having a flight bag that’s small enough to store in an area of limited space. With multiple pockets to contain all of your most precious items, plenty of thought and care has been put into the design of this rolling case.

Materials & Design

Made from leather, this is a solid option for frequent travelers. With a padded electronics pouch, your most valuable items will remain safe while on the go. The main compartment features multiple pockets for organizing your papers and files. The dimensions of this case are 14.97 x 18.11 x 9.85 inches.

Storing & Carrying

In the main compartment, you’ll find a divider that is detachable, which is a unique addition to the bag, allowing for better organization. This allows you to make the bag fit to your needs, whether you need one large section or two smaller ones. There are many smaller pockets for pens, cards and other valuable items. There are hoops on the sides to allow you to attach a shoulder strap for easy carrying through busy airports. However, this bag is best used on its wheels, which will reduce pressure and weight on your arms and shoulders.

Pros

  • A wheeled bag option
  • Padded electronics pouch
  • Removable divider for better organization in the main compartment

Cons

  • Wheeled bags can be larger for storing within the cockpit
  • Not as lightweight for carrying by hand when walking over uneven surfaces

 

 

15. Gleim Padded Flight Bag

With a basic yet functional design, this flight bag from Gleim is the perfect budget option for student pilots. With durable construction and a variety of pockets, you’ll be able to hold all your pilot gear as needed for each journey. This is one of the lowest-priced flight bags on the market, yet is remarkably hardwearing.

Materials & Design

This is a very sturdy bag option that will be fully resistant to wear and tear even after months or years of use. With a thoughtful design, it’s one of the best flight bags for student pilots or those on a lower budget. In comparison to models such as the Flight Gear HP Crosswind bag, it’s a much cheaper option, yet will still carry the same amount of belongings.

Storing & Carrying

You’ll appreciate the wide range of pockets to choose from in this pilot flight bag, and it will be a fantastic update to your current bag. The compartments are all roomy and designed with a pilot’s most important items in mind. The side pockets in particular are roomy, allowing your headset and other essential belongings to be stored with ease.

Pros

  • Best for students and those on a low budget
  • Multiple compartments and side pockets to choose from
  • Durable construction

Cons

  • The bag has a basic design and overall appearance

What to consider when buying a pilot flight bag

As with any bag purchase, you’ll want to compare your options before settling on a pilot bag for all of your gear. Whether you are part of a team of private pilots or student pilots working towards your license, you’ll want enough space in the bag to keep all of your items organized. These are the most essential things to look for when comparing the best flight bags on the market today.

Style

As with any type of bag, you’ll find a wide variety of styles and designs. Some of the crew bag options will be carried like a regular backpack, whereas others use an adjustable shoulder strap, such as the Flight Gear HP iPad bag. Others have just a carry handle, making them the best ones to grab in a rush. It’s completely up to your personal preference which style you like the most and therefore which one you choose to buy.

Size

When comparing any bags for pilots, the most important thing to consider is size. Before making your decision, think carefully about what belongings you carry around with you each day to work or for your studies. If you carry a laptop around with you everywhere, find a bag with a specific compartment for your device. A student pilot may find they need plenty of storage space for hefty textbooks. Only you know how much you take with you on a regular flight day, so once you’ve figured out how many compartments you’ll need, then you can make the best final decision on your new flight bag.

It’s important to also consider how much space you have on the airplane. You don’t want to have to force a big airline pilot bag under a seat and cause damage to it on its first use. Therefore, you want to find a bag that’s the perfect size for all your personal items, while not being too big to get in the way of another pilot or fixtures in the cockpit.

Storage

It’s important when comparing flight bags to assess their compartments, especially the size of the main compartment. If you are carrying plenty of files, books or equipment, you’ll need a spacious compartment to fit all of your belongings. Organization is more important as a pilot than in most other jobs, and being able to access something quickly in an emergency situation is crucial. Most flight gear is designed to help pilots keep their gear organized and ensure that smaller items don’t get lost inside various front or side pockets. If you like to carry small items with you, find a bag with a good organizer pocket to keep everything safe and sound while you’re on the go.

Price

As with any large purchase, you’ll see a wide variety in the range of prices listed below. The best flight bags aren’t necessarily the most expensive ones, so read various flight bag review descriptions like the ones below to help find a bag of good quality while also providing great value for money. You may want to find a branded pilot bag, such as one from the Flight Gear HP range, as you may feel you are guaranteed a higher quality from those products. It’s all about finding one that suits your needs and budget at the time of purchase.

Material

Along with the design, the other most important consideration is the material of your cockpit travel bag. You’ll find a range of materials listed below, and these can impact how effective your bag is and the price it’s listed for. A harder case will provide more protection for your electronics, and these are often the flight bag options that come with wheels. Otherwise, you’ll see many options made from polyester or ballistic nylon, which make cheaper crosswind bag options that are still of good quality. The higher the denier that you see listed in the material description, the stronger the flight bag will generally be. For a really stylish look, consider a leather flight bag, as they are very durable and offer good protection to your belongings.

We will be happy to hear your thoughts

Leave a reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Planet Traveler
Logo