At Dream Duffel, innovation has never been an afterthought — it’s been our foundation from the very beginning. Since 2008, we’ve led the way in creating functional, stylish, and performance-ready travel solutions for dancers, skaters, cosplayers, drag artists, and performers of all kinds.
From the original rolling duffel with a built-in garment rack to the versatile accessories and groundbreaking features we offer today, Dream Duffel has proudly remained the industry originator and standard-bearer for 17 years.
2008 – Where It All Began
Dream Duffel was born out of necessity. Founder Barb Johnson, equipped with a mechanical drafting degree and a determined spirit, designed the first Dream Duffel to eliminate the stress of dance competitions. The original product lineup included:
- Large and Medium Dream Duffels
- A built-in telescoping garment rack
- An insulated snack pocket
- Folding stool storage pocket (a feature present from day one)
- Wooden hanger, accessory box, and tutu bag
- The Complete Package, launched right out of the gate
2009–2012 – Expanding the Essentials
We rapidly expanded our offerings to support performers on the go:
- Small Dream Duffel (2009)
- Hanging Cosmetic Case in multiple colors
- Patch personalization and embroidery (2010)
- Gym bags and limited-edition printed duffels
- Short and gusseted garment bags (2011)
- Cosmetic roll, light-up makeup case, hanging shoe caddy (2012)
- Garment rack extension for added height
2013–2015 – Elevating Function and Style
We continued listening to our customers and developed products that addressed their evolving needs:
- Vertical rack extension (10") AKA the Releve Extension
- Top Bar Extension (8.5") AKA the 8.5" Rack Extension
- Silver Edition Duffel
- Equestrian Dream Duffel line (2014)
- Rhinestone application kits
- Rebrand and new additions like Pointe Perfect, Omnia Garment Bags, and Hat Boxes (2015)
2016–2017 – Modernization & Market Expansion
- New website launch
- Accessories for other markets beyond dance
- Redesigned garment bags, changing stations, recital duffels, and backpacks
2019 – Bright Ideas
We addressed customer feedback with key upgrades:
- Switched from black to light grey interior liner
- Added USB ports for device charging on the go
2021–2022 – Built to Handle Anything
We introduced our first sparkle edition duffels and upgraded our:
- Handles with stress-tested construction
- Wheels with rugged, all-terrain mobility
2023 – Room to Grow
To accommodate longer costumes, cosplay outfits, and drag ensembles, we raised our garment rack height from 52" to 58".
2025 – Rolling Into the Future
This year, we proudly launched the Dream Dollie — a rolling spinner base that allows most Dream Duffels to glide effortlessly on four wheels, giving performers new levels of mobility and convenience without changing their bag.
Built for Performers, Designed by People Who Understand
Our team includes dance moms, coaches, performers, and competitors who’ve lived the backstage life — and our products reflect that experience. Every innovation has been born from listening to our community and designing smart solutions with purpose.
We’re grateful to the loyal customers who have supported Dream Duffel for 17 incredible years. We are proud to be the original — and still the most trusted — name in competition gear.
