As someone who has tried various packing systems for motorcycle touring, jeeping, truck and car camping, expedition trailers, RVs, backpacking, Boy Scout camp, etc., etc., here are my observations:
1. Your packing system will evolve. What might be perfect today won't be in the future as your needs change and you encounter "better ideas."
2. Since your packing system will evolve and change, there is some wisdom in not buying top of the line stuff for your first purchase. But you don't want to buy junk either. Try out a system, see what works and doesn't for your particular application, and be willing to experiment.
3. Duffle bags don't have to be expensive. I currently use them for personal gear in both my jeep and for my jeep trailer. The advantage is that they can be stuffed into irregularly shaped spots. I have a set of medium and smaller bags for my jeep, each with an assigned spot in the jeep, and assign one for each passenger. They can bring whatever they like as long as it fits in the bag. I have one additional bag to hold jackets, gloves, etc. for everyone in the jeep which go in and out as the weather changes during the day. I also have a tent duffle, small tool bags, etc. Moderately priced stuff can be found in most of the chain sporting goods stores, Target, etc.
4. Cordura or a similar material is a good choice. Some of the lighter weight nylon bags won't stand up to hard use. Unless you are backpacking, saving every once of weight is not your first priority.
5. I don't like canvas - it stains and mildews, and isn't waterproof. Synthetics are better.
6. Wheeled duffles are popular with some, but I don't like them. Not only are they ususally a larger size, which makes them more difficult to pack into small spaces (particularly with the frame and wheels), the larger size encourages people to bring too much stuff.
7. I also use Rubbermaid "Action Packers." They come in various sizes, are relatively inexpensive, and quite durable for the price. Each Action Packer box is dedicated to a particular type of gear, with one for dry goods and food that doesn't require refrigeration. I currently use a Cordura "camp kitchen" when jeeping without my trailer (equipped with permanently mounted chuck box), which is a commercially made soft-sided box about 24" x 16" x 16" with hard plastic bottom, grab handles, and compartments for stove, cookwear, utensils, etc. Too bad it isn't made any more.
