Yes, a duffel bag can absolutely function as a school bag, and in 2026, many students prefer them for their versatility and high storage capacity. Duffel bags are particularly useful for students who participate in after-school sports or extracurricular activities, as they provide ample space to store textbooks alongside gym clothes, shoes, and sports equipment. However, from a peer-to-peer perspective, there are ergonomic trade-offs to consider. Most duffel bags utilize a single over-the-shoulder strap, which can lead to uneven weight distribution and potential shoulder or back strain if the bag is heavily loaded with heavy books. To mitigate this, many modern "hybrid" duffels now come with hidden backpack straps. While they are a "cool" and practical alternative to the traditional backpack, ensure the duffel is constructed from durable materials like ballistic nylon or heavy-duty canvas to withstand the daily wear and tear of a school environment.