backpack travel bag 80 l

Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

From short weekend getaways to far-off international adventures, our top travel packs make it easy and comfortable to organize and carry the essentials.

Switchback Travel ( Brian McCurdy )

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Whether you’re traveling across the globe or headed out on a quick weekend getaway, a thoughtfully designed travel pack can help you stay comfortable and organized while on the move. Key considerations include carry-on compatibility for air travel, enough capacity to stash your belongings, pack weight, and preferences on storage and organizational layouts. Below we break down the best travel backpacks of 2024, ranging from minimalist options for a couple nights away to larger bags with removable daypacks for extended trips. For more background information, see our detailed comparison table and buying advice below the picks.

Editor’s note: We updated our travel backpacks guide on March 29, 2024, to add The North Face Base Camp, which is a fully featured option at a competitive price, along with swapping the Patagonia Black Hole MLC from the 45-liter capacity to the 30-liter version due to its more manageable shape and size.  

Our Team's Top Travel Backpack Picks

• Best Overall Travel Backpack: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L
• A Close Second (That's Great for Carrying Electronics): Peak Design Travel Backpack
• Excellent Carrying Comfort for Gear-Intensive Trips: Osprey Sojourn Porter 46 L
• Best for Staying Organized: Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L
• Best Budget Travel Backpack: Amazon Basics Carry-On Travel Backpack
• Best High-Capacity Travel Pack for Long Trips: Osprey Farpoint 70

Best Overall Travel Backpack

1. cotopaxi allpa 35l ($200).

When compiling our list of the best travel packs, we prioritized functional organization, easy on-the-go access, durable materials, and carry-on compatibility. Cotopaxi’s Allpa 35L Travel Pack checks all those boxes emphatically, earning it our top spot for 2024. Along with the vibrant styling and multi-colored patterning that the brand is known for, the Allpa is exceptionally durable with a mix of 1,000-denier, TPU-coated polyester and panels of 840-denier ballistic nylon. In use, we found the Allpa to be remarkably tough and highly water-resistant, and the pack also comes with a stowable rain cover for truly inclement weather. We also love the dual access to the main compartment, including a full wraparound zipper and secondary side zip next to the backpanel for easily retrieving items while on the move. And the electronics sleeve is big enough to handle both a laptop and tablet at the same time, which isn’t often the case. Overall, the Allpa is well made, stylish, and very nicely appointed for travel.

What’s not to like with the Cotopaxi Allpa? While the 35-liter variation here is nicely sized for long weekend trips or shorter getaways abroad, it’s smaller than competitors like the Peak Design Travel Backpack, Osprey Sojourn Porter 46, and many other carry-on-friendly designs below (Cotopaxi does sell a larger 42L version for $220 that still meets most airline requirements). Further, while overall carrying comfort is good, there are no load-lifter straps to bring the pack closer to your body. Additionally, the interior pockets are a little awkwardly sized, and the lack of external compression straps makes it hard to secure bulkier loads. A final omission is water bottle storage, although it’s not a critical feature for most and does little to dampen our enthusiasm for an otherwise well-rounded and great-looking bag. And for those looking to check their luggage, the Allpa roller bags are equally tough and user-friendly. See the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

A Close Second (That's Great for Carrying Electronics)

2. peak design travel backpack ($300).

Peak Design’s Travel Backpack may look relatively unassuming on the outside, but don’t be fooled: This bag is packed with thoughtful travel-ready features. First is the expandable design, which allows you to alternate between 35 and 45 liters by simply zipping or unzipping the frontmost zipper. Access is another highlight, including entry points at the top, side, front, and rear for easily retrieving items pretty much anywhere in the pack. Storage is also excellent with padded laptop and tablet sleeves, a divisible main compartment, large and stretchy dual side pockets (not common on travel packs), and multiple interior pockets. And it’s all wrapped up in a thick nylon canvas shell that’s durable, streamlined, and very modern.

What complaints do we have about the Peak Design Travel Backpack? Price is the most glaring downside: At $300, it’s one of the most expensive designs on our list. And while the bag is undeniably sleek, it’s pretty utilitarian-looking and less everyday-friendly than more vibrant options like the Cotopaxi Allpa above and Topo Designs Global Travel Bag below. It’s also on the heavy end at 4 pounds 8 ounces, which isn’t unreasonable but does add considerable heft compared to many competitors. Finally, the Travel Backpack is technically not carry-on compliant when expanded, measuring 22 x 13 x 11 inches (the standard U.S. domestic carry-on limit is 22 x 14 x 9 in.). But it works at the compressed 35-liter size (or smaller 30L option) , and photographers in particular will love the shape, which nicely accommodates multiple camera cubes, lenses, and other accessories. If you fall into that group, another staff favorite is Wandrd's Prvke , which features a more modular design with specialized add-ons for camera gear. See the Peak Design Travel Backpack

Excellent Carrying Comfort for Gear-Intensive Trips

3. osprey sojourn porter 46 l ($195).

Osprey is a leader in the backpacking pack market, and much of that technology and expertise has trickled down nicely into their travel pack collection. The Sojourn Porter 46 L is case in point, combining the impressive carrying comfort that the brand is known for with a practical, carry-on-friendly build and feature set for travel. Starting at the outside, you get a rigid foam backpanel with well-cushioned shoulder and hipbelt straps that feel reminiscent of Osprey’s backpacking designs, a handy compression system to effectively cinch things down, lockable zippers for the main compartment, and a beefy side handle for hauling the pack duffel-style. The inside is a similar story with ample pockets of varying sizes, compressions traps to keep clothes tidy, and padded sidewalls to help protect valuables during travel.

Despite offering 11 more liters of capacity than our top-ranked Cotopaxi Allpa 35L (for $5 less), the Sojourn Porter 46 L is still carry-on compliant, making it the largest option here that still meets most domestic and international airline restrictions. It’s also impressively sturdy and durable and includes reinforced cord loops to attach to Osprey's Daylite or Farpoint/Fairview daypacks (sold separately). We do wish Osprey offered the design in a women’s version for those with smaller torso and waist measurements, but the unisex sizing is standard in the travel market (their Farpoint/Fairview below is one of the few models to come in a separate women’s version). In the end, if it fits you well, the Sojourn Porter offers a hard-to-beat mix of capacity, features, and comfort for the price, making it our favorite option for longer, gear-intensive adventures. See the Osprey Sojourn Porter 46 L

Best Travel Pack for Staying Organized

4. topo designs global travel bag 30l ($199).

Topo Designs flies a little under the radar compared to well-known brands like Cotopaxi and Osprey, but don’t let that deter you—this company makes exceptionally built and good-looking packs for everything from commuting and travel to more technical pursuits like biking and climbing. Their Global Travel Bag 30L here is a shining example and stands out in one major way: internal organization. Put simply, there’s no shortage of options for divvying up your belongings, from the vertical daisy chain webbing on the front to the expandable side water bottle pockets, ample zippered storage inside and out, a laptop sleeve along the backpanel, and several interior mesh pockets. Like the Cotopaxi Allpa above, the Global Travel Bag is also well equipped for rough use, including a mix of 1,000- and 1,680-denier ballistic nylon that gives the pack a noticeably burly, confidence-inspiring feel—at a very manageable 2 pounds 10 ounces to boot.

That said, the extensive feature set does add some complexity when it comes to organization. We like the big clamshell opening to the main compartment, but we had to reorganize to make everything fit into the various compartments (they're optimized for Topo Designs' Pack Bags , which are smaller than our standard packing cubes). The tall and slim shape is also best suited for clothing rather than bulky gear, which may be limiting for outdoor adventures that involve camping or backpacking. We also wished there were a little more padding along the shoulder straps and hipbelt while walking through airports with the pack stuffed full, but it distributed the load pretty well (and the hipbelt can be tucked away when not in use). In the end, no pack is perfect, but the Global Travel Bag 30L is a well-built, durable, and stylish option for overnights, short weekend getaways, and even minimalist adventures abroad. It’s also sold in a larger 40-liter variation for longer trips, although we found the smaller pack to be much more manageable. See the Topo Designs Travel Bag 30L

Best Budget Travel Backpack

5. amazon basics carry-on travel backpack ($46).

Travel packs are an expensive bunch, but Amazon makes an affordable but still surprisingly capable option in their Carry-On Travel Backpack. We’ll start with the good news: As its name implies, the bag is carry-on compliant, and it comes with most of the standard features we look for in a practical travel pack. These include a zippered laptop sleeve, internal and external compression straps, easy-access pockets for travel documents, and good organization in the main compartment. Like the Peak Design Travel Backpack above, the Amazon Basics can also be expanded to boost packing space while still meeting carry-on restrictions. And at just around $50 at the time of publishing (colorways vary on Amazon), the 40-liter Carry-On Travel Backpack is a great value for what you get, undercutting most similarly sized models on this list by $100 or more.

Now for the bad news: This Amazon Basics pack is far less capable than many of the picks here for shuttling a full load. The shoulder straps are lightly padded, while the hipbelt is a thin and basic webbing design that won’t feel comfortable under the weight of a full pack. The rest of the design has a cheaper feel, too, including a shiny and dated-looking exterior, a lot of plastic (read: breakable) components, and standard, non-lockable zippers. You don’t get dedicated water bottle storage either, which isn’t a necessary feature but certainly is nice to have. But if you’re an occasional traveler and aren’t yet ready to make a more sizable investment, the Amazon Basics pack is a perfectly serviceable entry-level option at a great price. For another capable budget design that comes with packing cubes and lots of colorway options, we also like Asenlin’s 40L Travel Backpack . See the Amazon Basics Carry-On Travel Backpack

Best High-Capacity Travel Pack for Long Trips

6. osprey farpoint 70 ($230).

The packs above are great for vacationers and travelers headed out for a week or two, but those embarking on longer and/or gear-heavy trips abroad will almost certainly need more storage and capacity. Enter Osprey’s Farpoint 70, which comes with a 15-liter daypack that can be attached to the front to maximize capacity or used separately for around-town adventures once you reach your destination (Note: The travel pack itself is 55L). Importantly, both come well appointed: The daypack boasts a dedicated tablet/hydration sleeve and water bottle pockets, while the main pack has great cushioning along the straps and backpanel (it’s an Osprey, after all), a well-ventilated backpanel, easy access via the large front panel, and an adjustable torso system for dialing in a good fit. It's all wrapped up in a thoughtful and sustainable package, including recycled and bluesign-approved fabrics, along with a dedicated women's version called the Fairview.

All that said, there’s one glaring downside to opting for a larger-capacity design like the Osprey Farpoint 70: It doesn’t meet most carry-on size requirements. For reference, the standard domestic carry-on limit within the U.S. is 22 x 14 x 9 inches, while the Farpoint measures 25.6 x 15 x 12.6. Another complaint is that the daypack obscures the pack’s main compartment when attached, making it tedious to access your belongings. Even so, you’d be hard-pressed to find a more versatile and comfortable system for less (the daypack is a $65 investment on its own), making the Farpoint 70 our favorite high-capacity pick of the year. It’s also available in a larger 80-liter version, as well as smaller 40- and 55-liter capacities, although only the Farpoint 55 and 70 include the detachable daypack.  See the Osprey Farpoint 70   See the Women's Osprey Fairview 70

Best of the Rest

7. eagle creek tour 40l ($159).

Eagle Creek first started making packs in the mid 1970s, and their Tour 40L travel pack reflects that longstanding history in the market. From the get-go, we were immediately impressed by its highly practical design. The bag has great exterior storage, including a stretchy side water bottle pocket and expansion zipper for 5 liters of additional capacity in the main compartment. Additionally, the book-style opening provides quick access to the contents of the bag, and interior and exterior compression straps make it easy to snug things down. We also appreciate that it comes in two torso sizes (S/M and M/L) for maximizing fit, which is uncommon in the travel pack market and a really nice plus at this price point. And the cherry on top: The Tour checks in at a very competitive 2 pounds 10 ounces, which is tied with Topo Designs’ 10-liter-smaller Global Travel Bag above as the lightest on our list.

Other notable features on the Eagle Creek Tour 40L include side and top grab handles for easy loading and carrying, an integrated rain cover that stows away at the bottom and doubles as a backpanel cover if you check the bag, puncture-resistant and lockable zippers that are easy to operate even with gloves, and good overall carrying comfort. It’s not the toughest design out there—the water bottle pocket started to fray on our pack after just one trip—but uses durable 600-denier polyester elsewhere and is reasonably hardwearing overall. Final nitpicks include no pass-through sleeve for securing to a suitcase and a fairly bland exterior, but those do little to detract from the Tour’s otherwise well-rounded build.  See the Eagle Creek Tour 40L

8. Gregory Border Carry-On 40 ($190)

Like Osprey, Gregory is a leader in the hiking and backpacking markets, and their Border Carry-On 40 retains many of their well-loved technical features in a travel-friendly design. The big news here is the pack’s split-case design, which creates two distinct areas within the main compartment accessed via one large, clamshell-style opening. On one side, a zippered mesh panel with added zippered storage and compression straps keeps your clothing and some accessories organized, while an odor-resistant “ActiveShield” compartment at the opposite side effectively separates dirty clothes. As expected from Gregory, carrying comfort is also great with good adjustability at the sternum, a well-cushioned backpanel, and thick straps. You don’t get load lifters for bringing the pack closer to your body, but we didn’t have any issues, even when running through the Montreal airport to a connecting flight en route to Patagonia.

That said, the Gregory Border Carry-On’s split-case design does have a noteworthy pitfall: With both compartments zipped, storage feels pretty limited. Unzipping the larger mesh panel does help maximize space (especially when stuffing the pack to the brim), but it also defeats the purpose of the dual compartments. Compared to the competition, the Border also uses thinner materials than Osprey’s Sojourn Porter and Farpoint offerings, although the rest of the feature set stacks up similarly. In the end, it’s another comfortable and well-built travel pack, and the split-case design has its merits for those who pack light. See the Gregory Border Carry-On 40

9. Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L ($350)

Travel packs are a dime a dozen in 2024, but Tortuga’s Travel Backpack 40L—which replaced their Outbreaker 35L—stands out as one of the most well-appointed and thoughtfully built options on the market. Organization is a clear highlight, including a large front pocket with several sleeves for divvying up small valuables and documents, a convenient clamshell-style opening with zippered compartments for separating clothes and shoes, and padded laptop and tablet sleeves with zippered mesh pockets at the other side for storing cords and accessories. Rounding out the feature set are easy-to-access water bottle pockets that can fit most standard-mouth bottles (our wide-mouth Hydro Flask was too big), zippered hipbelt storage that can accommodate a smartphone and passport, and lockable, water-resistant zippers. Finally, the design is well padded with thick cushioning along the backpanel, shoulder straps, and hipbelt, which is fairly uncommon among travel-specific brands. 

It's worth noting that the Tortuga Travel Backpack has a slightly more streamlined storage layout than its predecessor, although you do get an additional 5 liters of capacity and a bump in usable space. However, the Tortuga is no featherweight at 4 pounds 8 ounces, which is a notable downside for long treks through the airport and around town. It’s also tied with Matador’s GlobeRider below as the priciest on our list at a steep $350. On the bright side, Tortuga does offer a lifetime warranty against defects, and they will repair/replace the pack or refund your money if a replacement isn't available. All told, it’s a nice dose of added assurance and helps justify the steep price, but the hefty build and lack of value push the Tortuga slightly down in our rankings. For another well-executed design with all the requisite travel features, check out Aer’s Travel Pack 3 , which is cheaper at $249 but 5 liters smaller and doesn’t include a hipbelt with purchase. See the Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L

10. Yeti Crossroads 35L Backpack ($250)

Yeti's coolers and insulated drinkware are their bread and butter, but the focus on premium craftsmanship doesn’t end there. On the travel side, their Crossroads 35L Backpack is exactly what we’ve come to expect from the brand: excellent durability and functionality in a modern package. The body of the pack is made with Yeti's tough and confidence-inspiring TuffSkin nylon (which was inspired by motorcycle gear), while the PU-coated base adds a nice dose of assurance when setting it down. All of the other components have an equally durable and supportive feel, from the foam-heavy shoulder straps to the thick, protective backpanel. It’s all wrapped up in a sleek and streamlined design that’s offered in a nice selection of colorways, from bright Harvest Red to subdued Alpine Brown (shown in the photo here).

Yeti clearly put a lot of thought into the outside of the Crossroads, but the interior is well executed, too. The clamshell opening folds back to reveal a pocket-equipped mesh panel and generous main compartment that still can be accessed when wearing the pack. You also get dedicated storage for a water bottle and laptop, as well as a pass-through sleeve for securing to a roller bag. Our biggest gripe is the lack of padding: The detachable hipbelt is made of thin webbing and doesn’t offer much support, and the shoulder straps and backpanel have a noticeably thick and rigid feel, which is great for durability but detracts from overall comfort. And as with most Yeti products, the pack isn’t particularly cheap or light at $250 and nearly 4 pounds. Finally, the 35-liter Crossroads is on the smaller side and will require precise packing to fit more than about three to five days’ worth of belongings. But again, build quality is top-notch, and minimalists used to packing light may not mind the small sacrifices in comfort and storage. See the Yeti Crossroads 35L Backpack

11. Matador GlobeRider45 ($350)

Matador may lack the name recognition of brands like Osprey and Cotopaxi, but don’t let that fool you: This Boulder-based upstart is quickly growing thanks to their outside-the-box thinking. From their travel collection, the new GlobeRider45 stands out as a very intentionally built design that spares no expense in terms of features. In addition to being on the larger end, the carry-on-compliant GlobeRider offers solid comfort and support with good padding along the straps and backpanel, a light but sturdy aluminum frame stay, and a well-executed suspension system that’s reminiscent of a backpacking pack. Organization also abounds with a large external stash pocket, thoughtfully designed electronics pockets, vertical daisy chain webbing, and a practical interior layout that includes a packing cube-like space on one side and open clothing storage on the other. All told, it's an intriguing new pack that does a great job merging the utility of both backpacking and travel designs.

It's worth noting that we previously had Matador’s cheaper and lighter Seg45 ranked here, which boasts a unique segmented design that allows you to customize organization by day or activity. When unzipped, the five compartments at the front of the pack reveal independent (and stowable) storage cube-like areas for clothes and other soft items, while the main compartment below provides added space for dirty clothes, shoes, and other bulkier gear. While innovative, however, the Seg45 falls well short of the GlobeRider in carrying comfort, which is largely a result of the thin webbing hipbelt and lack of frame. The pocket-heavy exterior also made it hard for us to remember where we put certain items and detracts from the amount of usable space inside the main compartment. Both packs are arguably overbuilt for infrequent travelers, but the GlobeRider stands out as the more balanced option for those willing to splurge. See the Matador GlobeRider45

12. The North Face Base Camp Travel Pack ($169)

The North Face’s expedition-ready Base Camp duffels have long been popular among serious adventurers, and the Base Camp Travel Pack is a logical and carry-on-friendly addition to the collection. We found a lot to like about the pack during testing, including its burly and abrasion-resistant exterior and myriad storage options. We particularly enjoyed the Base Camp’s front pocket layout, which makes it easy to divvy up travel documents and electronics with a variety of mesh, zippered, and fleece-lined pockets. The smaller details are equally well sorted, from the well-padded shoulder straps and backpanel to the fleece-lined laptop sleeve and generous daisy chain system for attaching gear externally. Finally, despite being a little smaller than many of our top picks, the 35-liter Base Camp includes water bottle pockets that easily swallowed our 24-ounce Hydro Flask.

However, despite checking all the boxes for most travelers, the Base Camp starts to look a little less competitive when stacked up against options like the Eagle Creek Tour above. For $10 less, the Tour boasts an additional 5 liters of capacity and includes helpful additions like a hipbelt, load-lifter straps, and a rain cover—all for around a pound less. Another alternative worth considering is REI’s Ruckpack 40 , which costs the same as the Base Camp and is more capable of crossing over for hiking: The laptop sleeve can fit a 3-liter reservoir, there are attachment points for trekking poles, and the suspension system is more in line with standard daypacks. Depending on your needs, the Ruckpack might be the better option, but the Base Camp offers better organization for travel in a more modern-looking package than the Eagle Creek. A final note: Those with broader builds may experience discomfort where the shoulder straps meet the backpanel, but our narrow-framed female tester had no comfort-related issues. See the TNF Base Camp Travel Pack

13. Thule Aion Travel Pack ($200)

Swedish brand Thule is best known for their bike and roof racks, but they make sneaky-good packs, too. Our favorite in their collection this year is the 40-liter Aion, which combines the premium build quality that Thule is known for with a nice assortment of travel-ready features. One unique—but very functional—addition is the removable TPU rolltop bag for stashing dirty laundry, which prevents odors and dirt from making their way to the rest of your belongings. The rest of the design is nicely appointed, including dedicated water bottle storage, an easy-to-access clamshell opening, plenty of zippered spaces for electronics and valuables (including a padded laptop/tablet sleeve), internal compressions straps to keep items secure and tidy, lockable zippers, and carry-on-compliant dimensions. 

What pushes the Thule Aion down to a mid-pack finish? At this price point and capacity, we’re surprised to see that the bag doesn’t come with a hipbelt. You can purchase Thule’s compatible Aion sling bag separately, which can pull double-duty for around-town use, but it’s a fairly expensive addition at $50 (and a feature we consider critical for a pack of this size). To be fair, the rest of the build is very well executed, including a noticeably thick and robust 600-denier waxed canvas shell and PFC-free DWR coating for fending off moisture. If you don’t mind the added investment for the waist belt/sling bag, it’s a promising design with competitive specs to match. Of note, if you’re looking for something a little different for travel, the Aion collection also includes a roller bag and a 35-liter duffel . See the Thule Aion Travel Pack

14. Pacsafe EXP45 ($290)

Travel can be an exhausting endeavor, especially if you’re constantly worried about your luggage or valuables getting stolen. That’s why anti-theft designs like Pacsafe’s EXP45 are becoming increasingly common, particularly for international trips. Like most of Pacsafe’s offerings, the EXP45 is packed with protective features, from cut-resistant materials to lockable and puncture-resistant double zippers and built-in stainless steel cable locks. Importantly, these are nicely integrated and don’t detract too heavily from the Pacsafe's functionality as a travel pack—it’s still well organized with ample interior and exterior pockets and compression straps, offers multiple carry options, and is carry-on compliant.

That said, the Pacsafe EXP45 is a pretty niche design that prioritizes safety over carrying comfort and access. The pack is on the heavier end at over 4 pounds due to all the protective features, the padding along the shoulder straps and hipbelt is firm (albeit decently thick), and there are no load-lifter straps to pull the pack closer to your body. Another downside is that the laptop sleeve is positioned at the front of the bag—we prefer when heavier items are situated close to the back for better weight distribution—and accessing items here can be difficult due to the half-length zipper design (we wish it had a clamshell opening like the main compartment). In other words, comfort- and convenience-focused travelers will likely want to look elsewhere, but the Pacsafe has its place for those who prioritize safety and security. For a cheaper and lighter option that doesn’t skimp on safety features, we also like Pacsafe’s Go 44L , although frequent travelers will likely prefer the more premium EXP45. See the Pacsafe EXP45

15. Patagonia Black Hole Mini MLC 30L ($199)

Patagonia’s Black Hole is legendary in the world of duffel bags, and the Mini MLC 30L travel pack variation shares that bag’s excellent durability and good looks in a more organized and carry-on-friendly design. Like the duffels, the Black Hole pack is made of strong (and recycled) polyester ripstop that’s highly tear-resistant with a TPU film on the exterior for fending off precipitation. It also boasts the signature daisy chain webbing along one side for securing extra gear. Importantly, however, the travel focus is clear: You get three carrying options (backpack, over-the-shoulder, or briefcase-style), compatibility with a roller bag, and a generously sized opening with two separate chambers for customizing organization.

Why do we rank the Patagonia Black Hole Mini MLC 30L here? The most glaring downside is its 30-liter capacity, which is undersized for trips lasting longer than a few days (unless you’re a staunch minimalist). Patagonia does offer a larger 45-liter variation for $40 more, although we found it to be lacking in structure, which caused the pack to feel noticeably bulky and cumbersome when stuffed full. Thankfully, both options feature the same well-executed backpanel design that we love, which comprises sleeves at one side for a laptop and tablet with zippered and drop-in pockets at the other for divvying up cords and accessories. Again, the Mini version is underbuilt for extended trips abroad but remains an excellent pick for commutes, daily use, and as a secondary bag for travel. See the Patagonia Black Hole Mini MLC 30L

16. Nomatic Travel Bag 40L ($290)

Many of the picks above are built by reputable backpacking manufacturers, but Nomatic is a travel company first. Their Travel Bag 40L embodies that focus, combining thoughtful organization and storage with easy access in a sleek and minimalist package. Feature highlights include a customizable strap design that allows you to easily alternate between backpack and duffel carry, dedicated compartments for shoes and clothing at the top and bottom of the bag, and even a mesh laundry bag to keep dirty clothes separate during travel. We also love the exterior pocket at the right side, which opens wide for easy access and features an array of mesh, fleece-lined, and zippered spots to organize electronics and cords, along with an RFID pocket for passports and other scannable documents. All told, it’s clear that Nomatic put a ton of thought into the design. 

It’s worth noting that Nomatic offers another intriguing option in their Navigator , although we consider the Travel Bag the more competitive all-around design. In parsing out the differences, the Travel Bag costs $110 less and is lighter by nearly 2 pounds, although it forgoes the Navigator’s expandable main compartment that allows you to alternate between 32 and 41 liters depending on your storage needs. The Navigator also includes load lifter straps and a sculpted foam backpanel for a boost in carrying comfort, but the Travel Bag is no slouch. And from a features perspective, we appreciate the Travel Bag’s dirty shoe compartment and included laundry bag. Those with smaller frames may have trouble dialing in a secure fit—our female tester (5’6” and 135 lb.) maxed out the Travel Bag’s hipbelt, for example—but the intentional organization layout and travel-ready feature set are undeniable selling points. See the Nomatic Travel Bag 40L

17. Mystery Ranch Mission Rover 45 ($249)

Along with Osprey’s Sojourn Porter 46 above, Mystery Ranch’s Mission Rover 45 is a great option for those of us who aren’t particularly adept at packing light. Touted as a “workhorse gear hauler,” the Mission Rover offers three functional carry options (as a suitcase, shoulder bag, or standard backpack), has a well-organized main compartment with zippered dividers and a wraparound clamshell opening, and even includes separate areas for shoes and dirty laundry. As expected at this price point, you also get most of the standard travel-ready features that we look for, including a stowable hipbelt, lockable zippers, a sleeve to secure to a rolling suitcase, and a padded laptop space that can accommodate computers up to 15 inches wide. Finally, like many of Mystery Ranch's backpacking offerings, the Mission Rover has a premium feel with a thick nylon exterior and water-resistant YKK zippers.

However, as with the Pacsafe EXP45 above, the Mission Rover’s laptop sleeve is situated at the front of the pack, which detracts from carrying comfort and convenience. The Mystery Ranch is also on the heavier and pricier end of the spectrum at 4 pounds 4.8 ounces and $249, although the 45-liter capacity is undeniably generous (and the pack is still compliant with most carry-on size restrictions). Finally, the bag is relatively dated-looking and lacking in modern appeal compared to offerings from Topo Designs, Peak Design, Cotopaxi, and others above. In other words, the Mission Rover doesn’t stand out in any one area (hence our ranking), but it’s another durable travel pack with a nicely executed feature set. See the Mystery Ranch Mission Rover 45

Travel Backpack Comparison Table

Editor's note: "Carry-on" refers to whether or not each pack meets standard domestic and international air travel restrictions, which must be under 22 x 14 x 9 inches or 45 linear inches when adding L+W+H.

About Our Testing Process

True to our name, globetrotting is a big part of what we do at Switchback Travel. Managing editor Sarah Nelson put together our initial list of 16 picks in 2022 after a trip to El Chaltén in southern Argentina with fellow staff members and gear testers. From takeoff to our return flights home, we put our packs through their paces by stuffing them to the brim with two weeks’ worth of clothing and gear, schlepping them through domestic and international airports, shoving them into overhead compartments and below our seats, and getting intimately familiar with organizational layouts for divvying up our documents and electronics. Upon our return, we also evaluated each pack closely for signs of wear like tears and stains.

Our current list of 17 picks reflects our own experiences as well as feedback from our freelancers, travel-savvy friends, and the online travel community. We continue to test travel packs on adventures near and far, adding and removing designs as the market shifts and as we get firsthand experience with more options. For example, on a recent trip to Chilean Patagonia in February 2024, we brought along two new-to-us travel packs: The North Face Base Camp and the Nomatic Travel Pack, both of which are now featured in the guide above. We’ll be sure to add any other standouts and favorites to the list above with each update.   

Travel Backpack Buying Advice

Size and capacity.

• Carry-on Size Restrictions

Organization: Pockets and Main Compartment Access

Carrying comfort, grab handles and alternate carry methods.

• Other Features

Construction and Durability

Fit and sizing, women’s-specific travel backpacks, sustainability, packing cubes and other accessories, do you need a travel backpack.

The first question to answer when choosing a travel pack is how much capacity you anticipate needing. For reference, the options above range from 30 liters on the small end (the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag ) all the way up to 70 liters for the Osprey Farpoint 70 (with the 15L daypack attached). Most travelers will land on something in the middle, with the sweet spot for many being in the 40- to 45-liter range—it’s no coincidence that well over half of the models above fall into this grouping, which is largely due to their carry-on-compliant dimensions.   

In general, we’ve found that packs of this size can easily accommodate a week or two of clothing, toiletries, and other travel accessories (and even more if you pack light). For reference, we had no issues fitting 14 days’ worth of belongings into the 40-liter version of Topo Designs’ Global Travel Bag on a recent trip to Patagonia. If you stick to weekend adventures, you can keep things lighter and more compact (and save some cash in the process) by opting for the smaller, 30-liter variation. On the flip side, those embarking on longer expeditions abroad might need to step up to a larger design like the Osprey Farpoint 70 or 80 (at the sacrifice of carry-on compatibility).  

Travel Backpack Dimensions

Dimensions are a crucial consideration for most travelers, and especially those headed abroad. With that in mind, we’ve listed the length, width, and height measurements for each travel pack above both in the write-ups and in our comparison table . As you may notice, similarly sized travel packs don’t vary too considerably in terms of dimensions. This is mainly due to carry-on size restrictions, which we break down more in depth below. Carry-on Size Restrictions Right off the bat, we’ll note that there is technically no standardized size requirement for carry-on luggage domestically or abroad. That said, the universally accepted dimensions within the U.S. are 22 x 14 x 9 inches or 45 linear inches when adding L+W+H. We’ve indicated whether each travel pack above meets these requirements in our comparison table, and REI Co-op does the same on each of their product pages. The only exception above is the Osprey Farpoint 70 , which measures 25.6 x 15 x 12.6 inches.  

It’s also important to call out expandable models here like the Peak Design Travel Backpack , which is carry-on compliant when compressed to 35 liters (22 x 13 x 9.5 in.) but not when expanded to its maximum 45-liter capacity (22 x 13 x 11 in.). You may be able to get away with carrying these bags onboard, but don’t count on it, especially if you’re traveling during peak season to a popular destination. When in doubt, you can always check with your airline ahead of time.  

All of the packs above are purpose-built for travel with extensive organizational layouts and thoughtfully placed pockets for separating valuables, electronics, and other accessories. That said, some layouts are more functional than others, and a final decision will largely come down to your intended use and what works best for the items that you plan to bring along. For instance, sleek options like the Peak Design Travel Backpack and Nomatic Travel Bag are great for digital nomads and remote workers who need to organize a lot of electronics, while backpacking-inspired designs like Osprey’s Farpoint and Sojourn Porter offerings have fewer tech-focused features but work great for adventure travel. We break down some of the key organizational components below, from laptop and tablet sleeves to water bottle storage and pack opening styles.  

Laptop and Tablet Sleeves Laptop storage is a requisite feature in a travel pack, and all of the picks above come with a dedicated spot to stash larger electronics. In terms of dimensions, most sleeves can accommodate up to a 15-inch laptop, and many come with separate smaller compartments in the same space for a tablet, too. This area is typically well padded to protect electronics and positioned along the backpanel for the best access and weight distribution (keeping heavier items closest to your back will help maximize comfort and balance). A couple exceptions to this rule are the Pacsafe EXP45 and Mystery Ranch Mission Rover 45 , both of which have the laptop sleeve at the front of the pack and can feel a little less well balanced with heavier electronics situated farther away from your body.  

Water Bottle Pockets Unlike laptop sleeves, side water bottle pockets aren’t a standard feature on travel packs. Some models that include them are the Topo Designs Global Travel Pack, Peak Design Travel Backpack, Osprey Farpoint 70 (on its removable daypack), Eagle Creek Tour , and Thule Aion, while the Cotopaxi Allpa and Amazon Basics Carry-On leave them out. And it’s worth noting that the Farpoint’s removable daypack is also compatible with a hydration reservoir, including a sleeve and access ports at either side for a tube (Note: This area on the daypack doubles as the laptop sleeve).   

Opening Styles and Access Easy access is a hallmark of a good travel backpack. The clamshell-style opening is far and away the most popular design and for good reason: With the pack laid flat, you can easily see and access the entirety of the main compartment. Some backpack-inspired designs, like Osprey's Sojourn Porter 46 and Farpoint 70, utilize generous U-zip designs instead, which are pretty functional but make it a little harder to reach contents at the very bottom of the bags. Finally, it's important to note that some bags come with multiple access points: The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L, for instance, includes both a full wraparound zipper and “shortcut” side zip next to the backpanel for easily retrieving items while on the move.  

Comfort can be somewhat subjective, but a few features help certain travel packs stand out from the rest of the market. Typically, the most comfortable designs boast shoulder straps and hipbelts with thick padding and good adjustability for dialing in fit. Sternum and load-lifter straps can also be very helpful in effectively distributing a heavy load. One brand that stands out in this area is Osprey, which makes sense given their expertise in the backpacking pack market. One of our favorite options for shuttling heavy loads over long distances is Osprey Sojourn Porter 46 , which features thick cushioning and good adjustability at the shoulders and waist belt and comes with load lifters for bringing the weight closer to your back.  

On the flip side, models without hipbelts are generally the least comfortable, especially when wearing them for extended stretches. From the list above, only the Thule Aoin doesn’t come with one, although their Aion Sling Bag (sold separately for $50) can be attached to serve as a hipbelt. Thin webbing designs—like what you get with the Amazon Basics Carry-On and Yeti Crossroads —aren’t much better, providing very little support and structure for keeping the weight of the pack on your hips (rather than your back). If you plan to be walking long distances with your pack through airports or city streets, we consider a well-padded waist belt a critical feature and worth the added investment.   

The models above are designed to be worn on your back as backpacks, but many travelers appreciate the ability to carry their pack suitcase-style or over the shoulder. These options are especially helpful when standing in line to check in at the airport or retrieve travel documents. For instance, the Peak Design Travel Backpack boasts 360-degree grab handles that make it quick and easy to take the pack off and carry it one-handed through security checkpoints or narrow airplane aisles. Designs like the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L also come with detachable straps for shoulder carry, which can be helpful when you need to access items inside but want to keep the pack off the ground and remain hands-free. Finally, many of the offerings here can be secured to a roller bag via pass-through sleeves, which we cover more below.  

Other Travel Pack Features

In addition to pockets and electronics sleeves, there are a few other features specific to travel packs that are worth having on your radar. Lockable zippers are fairly standard at the mid to upper end of the market (budget designs like the Amazon Basics Carry-On Travel Backpack forgo them), as are removable and/or stowable straps and compression straps or dividers to keep things tidy in the main compartment. As is common with backpacking models, some travel packs also come with built-in rain covers that stow away when not in use, including Cotopaxi’s Allpa 35L and Eagle Creek’s Tour 40L. Finally, many will appreciate the ability to attach their travel pack directly to a rolling suitcase via a pass-through handle or sleeve (like what you get with Yeti Crossroads 35L and many others above).  

Given the inherently rough nature of travel, all of the packs above are well built and hardwearing enough to withstand frequent use. That said, some are certainly more durable than others, and looking at denier (a measurement of fabric thickness) can help differentiate between models. For instance, the Gregory Border Carry-On 40 is pretty average with a mix of 210- and 450-denier (D) materials, while the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is one of the thickest and most abrasion-resistant options on our list with a combination of 1,000D polyester and 840D ballistic nylon (Topo Designs' Global Travel Bag uses a similar combo but with 1,000D nylon and 1,680D ballistic nylon). Pacsafe’s EXP45 is another standout, with stainless steel wire mesh built into the 400D nylon body to guard against theft. At the thinner end, Matador’s GlobeRider45 uses a mix of mostly 100 and 420D fabrics, although the nylon body is coated with a PU laminate to boost weather and abrasion resistance, and Matador included reinforcements in high-wear areas.  

Other durability-related additions to keep an eye out for are thick padding along the interior to promote structure and protect your belongings, weather-resistant details like YKK zippers and DWR coatings on the outside to fend off precipitation, and thicker materials at the base to help protect the pack when you set it down. And we should note here that cost often correlates pretty closely with overall quality. In other words, a budget pack like the Amazon Basics Carry-On Travel Backpack feels noticeably cheaper than most other options above and will likely wear down far more quickly. If you’re a frequent traveler, it’s almost certainly worth investing in a pricier and more premium option that will last.  

The weight spread isn’t huge among travel pack designs, but even a 1-pound difference may still be noticeable during long treks across town or the airport. For reference, the lightest options on our list are Eagle Creek’s Tour 40L and Topo Designs’ Global Travel Bag 30L (both 2 lb. 10 oz.), while the Osprey Farpoint 70 is the heaviest at 5 pounds 6.6 ounces. Most models fall somewhere in the middle, with the majority of 40- to 45-liter designs hovering somewhere between 3 and 4.5 pounds. In the end, weight won’t be a primary consideration for many travelers, but those backpacking through Europe or expecting to cover serious ground will probably want to shop toward the lighter end.  

Unlike their backpacking pack counterparts, travel packs are most often only offered in a single unisex option. This can make it difficult to dial in fit, especially for those with particularly narrow or broad builds. One exception above is the Eagle Creek Tour 40L , which is offered in both S/M and M/L torso sizes, while a couple others (which we cover below) are sold in dedicated women’s models for better customizing fit. Regardless of which option you choose, we always recommend trying on multiple packs before buying to see which fits you best (or at least purchasing from a reputable manufacturer with a generous return policy). You’ll want to be sure that you can adjust the shoulder straps and waist belt to be snug around your torso and waist. Sternum straps and load lifters can also be helpful for bringing the load closer to your back to maximize comfort and weight distribution.

As we mentioned above, most travel packs are unisex by design. In fact, only one model on our list is offered in a dedicated women’s-specific version: the Osprey Fairview (the Farpoint’s counterpart). Key differences include varying colorways, minor weight variations, and slightly smaller torso and waist measurements. The Fairview also has more contoured shoulder straps and a curved hipbelt to better conform to narrower torsos/shoulders and larger hips, although the packs share an otherwise identical overall construction and feature set. Regardless of designation, we always recommend choosing the pack that fits you best.  

In 2024, it’s pretty common to see pack manufacturers incorporating eco-friendly practices into production, including measures like recycled and bluesign-approved fabrics and PFAS/PFC-free DWR coatings. A couple examples include Pacsafe’s Venturesafe EXP45, which uses polyester that's made from recycled water bottles and other plastics, and Patagonia’s Black Hole Mini MLC 30L, which uses recycled and bluesign-approved (i.e., environmentally safe) polyester and is certified to the Fair Trade standard. A final feature to look out for is a PFC-free DWR coating, which forgoes the use of per- or polyfluorinated chemicals—"forever chemicals" known to be harmful to the environment. With many states stepping up to ban the sale of items that include PFCs, the outdoor industry is seeking better solutions for water- and stain-resistant finishes (for more, you can read about Patagonia’s take on the issue ).  

Packing your travel pack can often feel like playing a hard game of Tetris, especially for those of us who aren’t great at traveling light (this author included). To help, many of the brands above offer compatible accessories for their packs, from packing cubes to protective hard cases for electronics and more. Importantly, these add-ons are often modular and fit neatly into the main compartment of a compatible backpack. Some of our favorites include Topo Designs’ Pack Bags , Peak Design’s Packing Cubes and Tech Pouches, and Eagle Creek’s Pack-It compression cubes. In the end, these accessories aren't a necessary purchase for many travelers (and you certainly don't need to buy them from the same manufacturer as your pack), but they can go a long way toward maximizing organization and space and streamlining your load.  

The packs above make it easy and comfortable to shuttle your belongings across the globe, but not everyone needs a specialized design for travel. Duffel bags are another popular way to fly with a lot of clothing and gear, and many modern designs come with deployable backpack straps for more easily hauling through airports and around urban areas. However, duffels lack the impressive assortment of dedicated storage compartments and pockets for items like keys, passports, and electronics, are generally less comfortable to carry over long distances, and often don’t meet carry-on size requirements.  

Alternatively, some travelers may opt to use a standard backpacking pack . This can make a lot of sense when you’re traveling to hike, backpack, or embark on other adventures and plan to use your pack both for travel and for outdoor use when you arrive. Again, however, the lack of travel-specific features and organization options can make it harder to effectively divvy up your belongings. In the end, if you plan to fly domestically or abroad with any regularity (more than a couple times a year), we think most will find the investment in a dedicated travel pack worth it. Back to Our Top Travel Backpack Picks   Back to Our Travel Pack Comparison Table

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10 Best Backpacks of 2024 for Travel, Work and Everything Else

We tested over 50 backpacks to find the best buys for every occasion.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Best Overall

Cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack.

MATEIN Travel Laptop Backpack

Best for School

The north face borealis commuter laptop backpack.

Your backpack must hold everything you need, whether you're jetting off on a trip or heading into the office. With laptop sleeves, water bottle holders and all sorts of zippered compartments, a backpack needs to fit your necessities without feeling too heavy or bulky.

Fitting more than some carry-on suitcases in our tests, this Cotopaxi travel backpack had a spacious interior that holds everything from our standard packing test and more. The clamshell opening (similar to how a hard-side suitcase opens) makes for easy packing. The mesh compartments separate your clothes while it's still easy to see everything you have packed. It includes thoughtful comfort features like padding in the shoulder straps, chest and hip straps and a breathable mesh back. The shoulder straps tuck away, so you can check this carry-on backpack in a pinch. Our testers appreciated the included raincover if you ever got caught in bad weather, but the bag itself also has a water-resistant coating for extra protection.

This pack is also available in 28L (which makes a great personal item!) and 42L. We think the 35L pack is ideal for most travelers as it fits the same as some carry-on suitcases without getting too heavy or bulky, which can be uncomfortable to carry. When evaluating this bag, we appreciated that the laptop sleeve could easily accommodate a 15-inch laptop. Note that this pack lacks a luggage trolley sleeve, so it doesn't stack easily on rolling luggage.

RELATED: 13 Best Travel Backpacks of 2024, Tested by Experts

At just $22, no other pack can beat the value of this MATEIN backpack. It's affordable without sacrificing features like two mesh water bottle holders, padded straps, ample zippered compartments, a padded laptop sleeve and a USB charging port to charge your phone on the go (power bank not included). This bag has over 97,000 reviews on Amazon with 23 different color options. It's sold in two sizes to accommodate either a 15.6-inch or 17-inch laptop.

When evaluating this bag, we were especially impressed with the amount of storage compartments. This pack has a hidden zippered compartment in the back to hold valuables like a passport when traveling. It has two front pockets to hold keys, wallet, phone, pens and more. Plus, it has a luggage trolley on the back to sit conveniently on top of rolling luggage. This pick makes a great personal item when traveling or as an everyday commuter bag!

RELATED: 20 Best Backpacks You Can Shop on Amazon

Head back to campus with a backpack that'll go with you from classes, to the gym, to extracurriculars and back to your dorm. Enter the Borealis backpack from The North Face. We have been recommending this backpack for years because it has a great design for students. Whether you're in high school or college, this pack can hold a laptop (in a separate padded compartment), textbooks, water bottles, notebooks, a sweatshirt and more while still feeling comfortable to carry.

In our Lab evaluation, the exterior fabric held up to abrasion and water-resistance tests. Our testers reported that this pack is comfortable to carry (even when packed to the brim), thanks to the padded straps and the waist and chest straps. We especially liked the thoughtful features, like a fleece-lined zipper pocket for glasses and a front bungee system to hold a jacket. Shop this pick in 18 colors.

RELATED : Best Backpacks for High School and College Students in 2024

Timbuk2 Authority Laptop Backpack Deluxe

Nothing ruins a trip quicker than a damaged laptop. Keep your technology safe with this laptop backpack from Timbuk2. It features a separate padded laptop compartment that can even fit larger computers up to 17 inches. There are internal sleeves to hold e-readers and iPads as well. There's generous padding on the back, padded shoulder straps and an optional chest strap to better distribute the pack's weight.

One GH analyst uses this backpack regularly when bringing his laptop to and from work. He even brought this backpack on a recent trip to China and appreciated the built-in luggage trolley sleeve. He said, "It's comfortable to wear and the pockets keep everything I need well organized."

RELATED: Best Laptop Backpacks of 2024, Tested & Reviewed

Calpak Terra 26L Laptop Duffel Backpack

Ditch your suitcase for a quick weekend trip away with this Calpak weekender backpack. It's designed to hold everything you need for a few days away: clothes, footwear, toiletries, a water bottle, books, a laptop and more. The backpack straps can be tucked away and the pack includes a crossbody strap, so you can wear it like a traditional weekender bag — two bags in one!

The pack unzips around the side like a suitcase for easy packing. It includes compression straps that help keep everything in place. There are two spacious front pockets to hold must-have items and a separate padded laptop sleeve for easy access. The sleek exterior is water-resistant and available in 11 shades including classic neutrals and bold hues. "I regularly use this pack on trips because it can fit an impressive amount without becoming uncomfortable to carry," reported one tester. "I use it as a personal item with no carry-on, so I can save a few bucks by avoiding bag fees." One tester did note that the water bottle holder was too small to fit her bottle.

RELATED: 11 Best Weekender Bags, Tested by Travel Experts

Patagonia Black Hole Duffel 40 L

This Patagonia bag's rugged, water-resistant exterior helps protect your items, even in inclement weather. It's made with recycled polyester ripstop with a TPU-film laminate to prevent water from seeping in. The backpack straps tuck away, so you can wear it either as a backpack or as a traditional duffel bag with an included crossbody strap. When not in use, this backpack stuffs into the small side pocket for convenient, built-in storage . It can be tough to get the duffel in and out of the pocket as it is a tight fit. The Black Hole duffel is avaialble in 40L, 55L , 70L and 100L sizes. We recommend the 40L size as it's spacious enough to fit a week's worth of clothes without feeling too heavy to carry for most people.

If you're looking for a smaller backpack, we recommend the Patagonia Refugio pack ; it's great for everyday wear when traveling as it's made with water-resistant materials and includes a well-organized interior.

Peak Design Travel Backpack

Designed for both longer and shorter trips, this innovative Peak Design bag has a 35L capacity but you have the option to compress it to create a 30L day bag or expand it to 45L. This bag also converts to a duffel bag by conveniently tucking the backpack straps away, which is helpful if you ever want to check the bag when flying. You can access the bag's contents from the front, side and back, so it's easy to grab everything you need when on the go. Online reviewers especially liked this feature for easy access to camera equipment when traveling.

The main compartment only has one divider (which can roll down, but isn't removable), so we found it helpful to use packing cubes to keep everything organized. There are small zippered pockets in the front to stash must-have items like a phone, keys, wallet and lip balm.

Osprey Daylite Plus

Because you can't go hiking empty handed, bring a lightweight daypack like this top-tested Osprey backpack. This backpack features two stretchy water bottle holders on the side that fit larger bottles. It has padded straps with a chest strap and a removable hip belt for ergonomic support, important on longer hikes. The chest strap includes a built-in whistle to alert other hikers on the trail.

The front compression straps can hold wet or dirty clothes to keep them separate from the main storage compartment. Many online reviewers liked to put a rain jacket there in case they encountered bad weather. It has a separate back compartment that can either hold a hydration pouch or a 14-inch laptop — it's the perfect bag to bring from the trails to the street. Note that this backpack is hand wash only.

RELATED: Best Daypacks for Hiking, According to Pros

TUMI Alpha Bravo Search Backpack

TUMI is known as a status symbol for its luxurious travel products; they offer long-lasting, high-quality products and exemplary customer service. This nylon backpack with leather detailing is a staple among frequent business travelers. It has a sleek, professional look while still being comfortable to carry with padded straps . You have the option to add a customized monogram to the front of the backpack.

Grace Wu , Good Housekeeping Institute textiles product analyst, has tested dozens of backpacks, but she continues to use her 10-year-old TUMI backpack. She reports that it is "surprisingly spacious" and feels "high quality." The brand offers a limited warranty on many of its products with low-cost repairs.

Beis The Backpack

If you want a backpack that'll maximize your packing space without sacrificing style, The Backpack from Beis is ideal. We were immediately impressed with the spacious interior that can fit multiple packing cubes. The top unzips all the way around for easy packing. It features two water bottle holders on the side — testers liked to use one for a water bottle and the other for an umbrella. Some testers wish the holders were stretchy or adjustable to accommodate larger bottles.

The separate padded laptop sleeve makes it easy to grab your computer without unpacking your whole bag. Featuring a luggage trolley sleeve, this bag pairs perfectly with the brand's matching carry-on suitcases . Plus, it's available in eight stylish shades with over 3,000 online reviews (an average 4.8 rating!). This bag is the ultimate travel companion.

RELATED: Beis Luggage Review 2024: Does it Live up to the Hype?

Other backpacks to consider

While these packs didn't make the shortlist, they're high quality backpacks that performed well in our testing that you should consider:

JanSport Right Pack Backpack

A favorite for students from elementary school to college, this popular backpack from JanSport is made with durable, long-lasting materials, including a reinforced suede bottom. It has a simple design with two front pockets and a large interior with a laptop sleeve. It lacks organizational features that can be helpful when traveling, but is a great option for students.

Calpak Kaya Laptop Backpack

Another great professional option, this faux leather backpack from Calpak has a sleek look that's great for commuters with a separate laptop sleeve and a surprisingly roomy interior. It's also available in 25 colors — multiple GH editors have this bag in bold hues, including pink and purple! While it has an attractive look, this backpack couldn't accommodate bulkier items like shoes or a sweatshirt because of its shape.

Away The Outdoor Convertible Backpack 45L

Away offers a variety of smart travel products to make your trip easier, including this extra-large 45L convertible backpack. The backpack straps tuck away, so you can use it as a duffel bag. Testers liked the comfortable straps and well-organized interior. Our main concern with this bag is that the zippers sometimes came loose in our testing.

RELATED: Away Luggage Review: Are the Popular Carry-Ons Worth the Hype?

How we test backpacks

The Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab is comprised of fiber scientists and travel experts who have tested over 50 backpacks in recent tests. Testing styles designed for travel, school, hiking and more, both GH pros and our consumer testers used the backpacks before giving feedback on comfort when wearing a full pack, ease of use, convenience of pockets, appearance and more.

✔️ Backpack strap comfort and fit: We look at each backpack's straps to ensure they have padding and other comfort features like mesh for airflow. We also look for chest and hip straps, especially for hiking backpacks.

✔️ Material durability: Using a specialized abrasion tester, we evaluate the fabric's durability to ensure it will hold up against wear and tear.

✔️ Compartments including a laptop sleeve: We rate each pack's compartments and pockets to ensure there is ample storage space that's easily accessible. We put a laptop in the laptop sleeve to rate how well it fits and is protected.

✔️ How the backpack opens: Backpacks usually have one of two opening types: top opening or front opening.

• Top-loading backpacks have a zipper around the top of the bag, so it opens to one large compartment that you can fill. These are great to hold must-have items as everything is easily accessible, but they aren't designed to fit clothes and shoes.
• Front-loading backpacks (also known as clamshell-style packs) unzip around the side so they open up like a book for easy packing. These bags are better suited for packing clothes and toiletries as they will fit more, but items aren't as easily accessible when on the go.

✔️ Packing space: We pack each backpack with a standard load to rate how much each backpack can fit. We also rate the ease of opening and closing the pack when full.

How to choose the best backpack

Consider where you'll use the backpack before purchasing.

• Travel: Some travel backpacks are designed to hold what you'll need each day on vacation while larger ones are designed to hold a few days worth of clothes. Clamshell-style packs are best suited for carrying outfits — they can even be used as a personal item if your airline charges for carry-on bags.
• Hiking: A lightweight pack is a must when heading on a hike. Look for styles with chest and hip straps to better distribute the weight for a more comfortable feel mile after mile. Some hiking backpacks also include a pouch for a hydration pack.
• Business: Backpacks for business travel must include a padded laptop sleeve and ample space to hold what you need when attending meetings or conferences. Look for sleek materials like leather in neutral shades for a professional look.

Check the pack's total volume and packing space. If you plan to bring your backpack on a plane, compare the bag's dimensions to your airline's allowed personal item or carry-on dimensions to ensure you can bring it onboard.

Look at the backpack's weight. Avoid heavy styles that will weigh you down. Leather tends to be heavy compared to nylon and other synthetics, which are lighter in weight.

Ensure the backpack has the compartments you need. If you plan to bring your laptop with you when traveling, make sure the laptop sleeve can accommodate your laptop's size. In our tests, testers appreciated backpacks with water bottle holders — especially adjustable or stretchy holders to fit larger bottles. Other helpful compartments to look for include sleeves for iPads or e-readers, key holders, hidden zippered compartments for valuables and easily accessible front pockets.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

Emma Seymour has been testing backpacks and other travel products for the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab since 2018. She has tested over 100 backpacks, bags, suitcases and packing cubes! She has a degree in fiber science and apparel design from Cornell University. She loves to travel and regularly brings her Calpak Terra 26L Laptop Duffel Backpack along on her travels, including trips to Japan, Copenhagen, Mexico, Utah and more.

More on our top-tested backpacks:

• Best Travel Backpacks
• Best Laptop Backpacks
• Best Backpacks for High School and College
• Best Backpacks on Amazon
• Best Daypacks for Hiking
• Best Kids Backpacks
• Best Toddler Backpacks

Emma Seymour (she/her) is a senior product analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she has led testing for luggage, pillows, towels, tampons and more since 2018. She graduated from Cornell University with a bachelor of science in fiber science and apparel design and a minor in gerontology, completing research in the Body Scanner Lab on optimizing activewear for athletic performance. 

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Table of contents

10 Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

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Paring down to the essentials into one single travel bag, whether you’re heading a few hours away or traveling thousands of miles, can be fun and freeing as long as you have the right gear – and the right backpack to pack it in.

Our team at CleverHiker has spent the last 10 years traveling all over North America, from Calgary to Cancun and Hawaii to Hartford, testing more than 20 of the top travel backpacks. This guide represents the best of the best backpacks when it comes to price, comfort, and durability, as well as considerations like carry-on size and weight.

If you’re looking for more room and versatility out of your travel bag, pop over to our guide to the best duffel bags . For those who love a well-organized backpack, consider picking up some durable, compressible stuff sacks or packing cubes . And when you need easy access to your small essentials, you can’t beat a quality fanny pack .

Quick Picks for Travel Backpacks

Check out this quick list of our favorite travel backpacks, or continue scrolling to see our full list with in-depth reviews.

Best travel backpack overall:  Cotopaxi Allpa ($200)

Best budget travel backpack:  Ebags Mother Lode ($100)

Most organized travel backpack for one-bag trips:  Tortuga Outbreaker ($350)

Best travel backpack for photographers:  Peak Design Travel Backpack ($300)

Most versatile & stylish travel backpack:  Nomatic Travel Pack ($300)

Best travel duffel bag:  Patagonia Black Hole Duffel ($159)

Travel backpack with the best safety features:  Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45 ($290)

Durable & highly compressible travel bag:  Osprey Farpoint Men’s ($185)  / Fairview 40 Women’s ($185)

Most protective travel backpack:  Osprey Sojourn Porter ($195)

The CleverHiker team has been testing tons of new travel backpacks against our go-tos while we’ve traveled across the country on planes, trains, and automobiles – and there’s been quite a shakeup in the order of our list.

• The Cotopaxi Allpa moves to the number one spot due to it’s excellent balance of organization, functional pockets, cushy padding, and upbeat colorways.
• Thanks to impressive affordability and a burly build, the Ebags Mother Lode  is a close second that stands out for it’s expandable design and efficient compression straps.
• We added the Osprey Sojourn Porter 46 for it’s industry-leading durability, precise sizing as an airport carry-on, and cavernous main compartment.

Cotopaxi Allpa 35

Best travel backpack overall for organization, durability & style

Price: $200

Weight: 3 lb. 8 oz.

Dimensions: 20 X 12 X 10 in.

Options: Allpa 28 & 42

• Main compartment opens fully
• Streamlined organization
• Hideaway straps
• Raincover included
• Material marks easily

The Cotopaxi Allpa has everything we look for in a travel pack – streamlined organization, easy-access pockets, a comfortable carry, and unique style. The main compartment organization is about as close to perfect as it comes for us. There are four zipper compartments of different sizes for keeping things tidy – s0 there’s no need to add organizing cubes or stuff sacks – and they’re all made of mesh which makes it easy to see what’s inside. The trendy colorways stand out but aren’t abrasive, offering a more interesting design and flair than the endless wash of black backpacks out there. We’ve been using the durable Allpa pack for several years of travel now, and the stitching, hardware, and outer materials look just as good as the first time we used it.

• Ebags Mother Lode

Best budget travel backpack

Price: $100

Weight: 3 lb. 15 oz.

Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 10

Other Options: Mother Lode Jr.

• Fits large laptops (up to 19")
• Lightweight
• Laptop compartment isn’t as padded as others

With the features of a premium bag and a price tag from the bargain bin, the  Ebags Mother Lode travel backpack is an incredible value for the money. This expandable bag opens up suitcase-style to a tidy internal organization system with one large mesh zipper pocket and a modular “shelf” with compression straps. The shelf helps keep things, like clean and dirty clothes, separate, or it can be unclipped to make one large compartment for packing whatever way you like. We love a well-organized and durable bag, and this model from EBags has an impressive number of smartly-placedpockets, burly zippers, and 4 highly effective compression straps. As long as you don’t mind the lack of a hipbelt, the Mother Lode is an excellent choice for travelers with expensive taste and a small budget.

Tortuga Outbreaker 40L

Most organized travel backpack for one-bag trips

Price: $350

Weight: 4 lb. 8 oz.

Dimensions: 21.7 x 13.8 x 7.9 in.

Other Options: 30L Weekender

• Tons of organization
• Adjustable & supportive suspension system
• Heavily padded TSA laptop pocket (up to 16”)
• Lots of electronics storage
• Large waistbelt with compartment
• Sleek design
• Heavier than others

If you’re the type of traveler who wants everything to have its own designated space, the Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L will be your new favorite travel companion – you won’t find a better organization system on this list. The spacious main compartment opens up fully like a suitcase and has a handy mesh pocket to separate dirty clothes. It also has quick-grab pockets on the exterior for wallet items, small essentials, and a huge TSA-ready electronics compartment. If you’re carrying electronics on every trip, this bag has our favorite laptop compartment; it’s heavily padded and fleece-lined to keep your valuables protected, and can fit laptops up to 16 inches.  So many pockets may be overkill for some, but it’s perfect if you have a lot of little things to keep tidy or you love a solid, intuitive storage system. All of these features make this travel pack feel much larger than it is, and at 40 liters you’ll be able to fit everything you need for up to a wee – or longer.

Peak Design Travel 45

Best travel backpack for photographers

Price: $300

Dimensions: 2 x 13 x 11 in. (fully expanded) / 22 x 13 x 9.5 in. (compressed)

• Highly padded
• Lots of access points
• Handles on all sides
• TSA laptop pocket
• Hideaway harness
• Theft-deterrent zippers
• Heavier than some others
• No compressions straps / bulky

The  Peak Design Travel Backpack is the epitome of smart, elegant design. With its multiple access points (back, side, and front) and slick expansion system, this bag can be tailored to countless uses whether you’re heading into a high-mountain expedition in Nepal or just taking a quick daytrip to your local trails. It really shines when you have a lot of camera gear, gaming equipment, or electronics to tote, but don’t think that this bag is just for the techy crowds. Its stylish look and streamlined organization will work well for anyone wanting a single bag that can fit many niches – our take on this pack is if you’re traveling anywhere, you’ll need a pack just like this to stay organized and stylish. The biggest downside is the steep price tag, but the heavy padding, weather resistance, and stellar safety features are worth every penny for a backpack that will last for years and years of travel.

Nomatic 30L Travel Pack

Most versatile & stylish travel backpack

Weight: 4 lb. 2.3 oz.

Dimensions: 18.5 x 12 x 9.5 in.

Other Options: 40L Travel Bag

• Waterproof zippers
• TSA laptop compartment
• RFID safe pocket
• Removable hipbelt / hideaway straps
• Durable materials
• Bulky profile

The  Nomatic Travel Pack is definitely the most sleek-looking bag we tested, and it’s also chock-full of useful features. This bag is a modern and sleek take on suitcase-style backpacks, and easily transitions from a professional business tip to a trendy daily carry whether you’re in the city, suburbs, or open country. It expands from 20L to 30L making it versatile enough to work as an everyday backpack, a commuter bag, and a travel bag. We also love how many different types of storage there are, including cleverly placed magnetically expandable water bottle pockets, TSA-ready laptop and tablet sleeves with plenty of padding, and a large zippered mesh internal pocket. The Nomatic Travel Pack is very expensive, but you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better bag if style, durabilty and versatility are what you’re after.

Patagonia Black Hole Duffel 40

Best travel duffel bag

Price: $159

Weight: 2 lb. 8 oz.

Dimensions: 21 x 13.7 x 10.6 in.

Other Options: 55L, 70L, 100L

• Water-resistant
• Multiple carry options
• Fewer pockets
• No padded compartment for electronics
• Not the most comfy backpack

For those times when you want to just throw everything in a bag and go, you can’t beat the convenience and durability of the Patagonia Black Hole Duffel . We’re cheating a little bit here: while the isn’t a dedicated backpack, it easily turns into one thanks to beefy padded straps that can be tucked away when not in use. Made from burly 900-denier recycled ripstop polyester, you can put this thing through the wringer season after season without having to worry about it. The outside of the pack features 20 lash points, and seam-sealed zippered pockets on the outside of the duffel make access to smaller items fast and easy The Black Hole Duffel works great for quick trips when you need to just grab and go, or for packing those extra bulky things that won’t fit in your carry-on. Check out our list of the Best Duffel Bags  to see how it compares with our other favorites.

• Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45

Travel backpack with the best safety features

Price: $290

Weight: 4 lb. 4.8 oz.

Dimensions: 21.7 x 13 x 7.9 in.

• Built-in anti-theft & safety features
• Comfortable carry
• Takes a second to open due to safety features

The  Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45 is the ultimate pack for those travelling with valuables that need to be kept safe. It comes with locking zippers, a cable lock, and slash guards in the straps. The zippers take a minute to open when they’re in the locked position, but they open up to a nicely organized bag with simple pockets. In our experience, many travel backpacks aren’t necessarily designed with comfort in mind, but the Venturesafe was the most comfortable all-day carry for us thanks to a heavily padded back flexible hipbelt, and a sturdy chest strap – a more technical feature that’s common in hiking backpacks. If keeping your things secure is your main concern, but you don’t want to sacrifice a modern aesthetic, the Venturesafe is the pack for you.

Osprey Farpoint 40 & Fairview 40

Durable & highly compressible travel bag

Price: $185

Weight: 3 lb. 8 oz. / 3 lb. 7 oz. (Farpoint/Fairview)

Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9 in.

Other Options: Farpoint 55 & 70 (Men’s sizes), Fairview 55 & 70 (Women’s sizes)

• Comfortable
• Good compression system
• Laptop compartment is not as padded as some others
• No internal organization / pockets

The Osprey Farpoint  (men’s sizes) and  Fairview 40 (women’s sizes) are comfortable bags with quality construction. They have some of the most burly hardware (zippers, buckles, straps) of all the backpacks we tested, so they’re especially great for folks who tend to be hard on their gear, and for the rigors of travel – from rolling around in overhead bins and trunks to laying on the dirt, cement, and train station platforms, these packs are built to last. The Farpoint and Fairview have a simple approach to organization with little in the way of internal infrastructure, so we recommend picking up inexpensive packing cubes to maintain order. No matter how packed your bag is, we’re big fans of the well-placed internal and external compression straps that cinch it all down into a neat package. The Farpoint and Fairview can be tailored to many different travel styles with the option to carry as a backpack, a briefcase, or a messenger bag.

Osprey Sojourn Porter 46

Most protective travel backpack

Price: $195

Weight: 3 lb. 7 oz.

Dimensions: 18 x 15.8 x 12.2 in.

Other Options: 30L, 65L

• Good compression
• Good suspension
• Streamlined pocket organization
• A little large for carry-on with some airlines
• Sidewalls can get in the way when packing

If you’re a rugged adventurer who needs an equally tough bag, you’ve found it in the Osprey Sojourn Porter . Whether you’re throwing it under your seat on a plane, carrying it on cross-country travels, or heading to the nearby park, you can rest assured that your things are protected thanks to the padded sidewalls. These rigid sidewalls can be a little cumbersome when trying to pack the bag, but they’re excellent for compressing the load, so the bag feels streamlined even when it’s packed to the gills. The opening of the Porter is more similar to a duffel, so the interior organization is minimal. Pair the Porter with some packing cubes  if you prefer things to be more organized. The Porter is great for those looking for a simple, durable bag for the most adventurous excursions.

What’s Most Important to You in a Travel Backpack?

Traveling isn’t cheap: plane tickets, rental cars, hotel stays, and all of the essential gear can cost a pretty penny. That said, we’ve found that paying a little extra for a top quality bag means cost savings in the long run, since your bag will last for years. Luckily, a good travel bag doesn’t have to cost you an arm and a leg. You’ll find stellar options at every price point below.

Best budget travel backpacks:

• Patagonia Black Hole Duffel

Best value travel backpacks:

• Cotopaxi Allpa

Best high-end travel backpacks:

• Tortuga Outbreaker
• Peak Design Travel Backpack
• Nomatic Travel Pack

CARRY-ON SIZE

We’re big fans of one-bag travel. Not only do you save money on checked-bag fees, but you also have less stuff holding you back from adventuring. While most of the backpacks on this list are carry-on friendly, these are our favorites that fit the most common dimensions. Be sure to check measurements ahead of time with your airline and airpot, because carry-on size varies between companies.

Best carry-on size travel backpacks for most airlines (22 x 14 x 9 in. / 21.7 x 15.7 x 9 in.):

Best small travel backpacks for small airplanes (ex. IcelandAir: 21.7 x 15.7 x 7.8 in.):

• Cotopaxi Allpa 28
• Ebags Mother Lode Jr.

ORGANIZATION

Dumping everything out of our packs as soon as we reach that hotel, hostel, or spare room is part of the experience of travel – but we want everything organized and efficient inside the bag until then. When it comes to traveling, we prefer streamlined backpacks that have a small number of highly functional and well-placed pockets. Bags with built-in dividers are also our top contenders when it comes to maintaining order.

Best travel backpacks for staying organized:

Best travel backpacks with a good balance of pockets & simplicity:

Your backpack is your constant companion for trips where you’re moving around a bunch, whether you’re on a plane, a train, or navigating your way to your next stop. It’s important to find a bag that’s comfy enough to carry all day, so that you can focus on enjoying the experience. Consider options that can be used as a messenger bag, briefcase, or backpack for versatility.

Most comfortable travel backpacks:

• Osprey Farpoint (Men’s)  / Fairview (Women’s)

We’ve all been there before: you get your bag packed with your favorite outfits and hiking gear and that extra pair of shoes – and then you remember that pesky weight limit. We recommend starting with a lightweight bag to ensure you’ll use your weight allowance for the essentials.

Lightest travel backpacks:

VERSATILITY

Your bag may have to take on many different roles – daypack, purse, briefcase – so it’s good to look for one that can fill multiple niches. If you’re traveling for many hours or you’ll be hoofing it over large distances, a bag that can be carried multiple ways puts less strain on the body and is more comfortable throughout the day.

Most versatile travel backpacks:

We’ve also had our bags come out of the luggage carousel looking like they were thrown into the propellers – it’s not a good look. Travel is hard on bags, so we prioritize bags that have excellent stitching, durable fabric, and a sturdy frame.

Most durable travel backpacks:

• Osprey Sojourn Porter

THE CARRY-ON SIZED NOMATIC TRAVEL PACK IS HIGHLY ORGANIZED ON THE INSIDE & SIMPLE ON THE OUTSIDE

THE TORTUGA TRAVEL BACKPACK 40L IS THE NEW AND IMPROVED VERSION OF THE OUTBREAKER

PACKING CUBES HELP KEEP YOUR THINGS ORGANIZED IN YOUR BAG

THE PATAGONIA BLACK HOLE DUFFEL CAN BE USED FOR TRAVEL, CAMPING, THE GYM – JUST ABOUT ANYTHING

THE PEAK DESIGN TRAVEL BACKPACK IS WELL PADDED & MADE WITH DURABLE FABRIC TO PROTECT ELECTRONICS

THE PACSAFE VENTURESAFE EXP45 HAS A TON OF SAFETY FEATURES BUILT IN

Critical Travel Backpack Considerations

What size to choose.

The right size backpack is going to vary from person to person, but we typically think less stuff equals more comfort. We usually go for travel backpacks that are between 30 and 40L to maximize capacity for necessities while keeping everything in a small, tidy package.

GETTING ORGANIZED

Keeping things organized is key to a stress-free experience. Some travel backpacks come with a pocket or compartment for everything, but we prefer organizing our things in  packing cubes  for a more customizable way to keep everything neat.

The most important travel safety tip we can give is to stay hyper-aware of your surroundings, especially in places with lots of foot traffic. For additional safety, consider bringing along  small luggage locks  to lock zippers and swap out your current wallet for a  RFID technology wallets  or  card sleeves  to protect sensitive information sitting in your back pocket.

Carry-on size varies a lot between airlines, check your airline’s website to make sure your bag fits their dimensions. Also be sure your  toiletries and liquids  meet the standard of 3-1-1 (3.4 oz. liquids in 1 bag sized at 1 quart max) for carry-on. We love using refillable  GoToobs  for our shampoo, conditioner, and other toiletries.

Why trust us?

We understand how tough it is to find trustworthy gear advice, and that’s one of the main reasons we built CleverHiker. We live for outdoor adventure, and we take these guides very seriously.

• Our recommendations are completely independent and based on hands-on experience.
• We test outdoor gear for a living – we’ve logged over 20,000 trail miles and 1,000 nights in the wilderness.
• Our team has thru-hiked some of the most iconic long trails, including the Continental Divide Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, Appalachian Trail, Colorado Trail, Long Trail, Oregon Coast Trail, Arizona Trail, Pinhoti Trail, Superior Hiking Trail, as well as extensive peak bagging, and international treks.
• We field test every product we recommend, which is sadly not the norm.
• We travel to industry trade shows to stay up-to-date on product innovations.
• We continuously update our guides throughout the year and when new products launch.
• We treat recommendations to our readers as if they were for our family and friends.
• We’re lifelong learners and we’re always open to feedback. If you think we’ve missed a worthy product or got something wrong, we’d love to know about it.

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How To Choose The

Best Travel Backpack

The minimalist's guide to selecting a carry-on backpack for one bag travel.

• 01. Introduction
• 02. Our Picks
• 04. Function
• 05. Aesthetic
• 06. Conclusion

Fitting your life into one bag is no small task. We’re here to help.

Best Travel Backpacks

Click to learn more about why we love these top picks.

• 9.2/10: Aer Travel Pack 3 (Best for one bag travel)
• 9.1/10: GORUCK GR2 (40L) (Best for rugged adventures)
• 8.9/10: Peak Design Travel Backpack 30L (Best for travel photographers)
• 8.8/10: TOM BIHN Synik 30 (Best for built-in organization)
• 8.6/10: Tortuga Travel Backpack 30L (Best for suitcase-like organization)
• 8.5/10: TOM BIHN Techonaut 30 (Best for multiple carry modes)
• 8.3/10: ULA Equipment Dragonfly (Best for lightweight carry)
• 8.3/10: Able Carry Max Backpack (Best for daypack-like feel)
• 8.2/10: Osprey Farpoint 40 (Best for budget travelers)
• 8.2/10: Minaal Carry-On 3.0 Bag (Best for business travelers)
• 8.0/10: EVERGOODS Civic Travel Bag 35L (CTB35) (Best for carry comfort)
• 7.6/10: Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 40L (Best built-in packing cubes)
• 7.5/10: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack (Best for showing a little personality)

See all reviews: Travel Backpacks

How to Select The Best Backpack for One Bag Travel

There’s something so freeing about traveling with only one bag. All of your important stuff is within arm’s reach, and it forces you to cut down on many of life’s seemingly necessary consumer goods that you can probably live without. With one bag, you easily glide from location to location, always having just enough but never too much.

Choosing the perfect travel backpack for one bag travel can be a challenging endeavor. There are so many brands and models to choose from with varying degrees of durability, price, and try-on-ability (we made this word up for trying something out before buying it online). Add varying views and opinions into the mix from folks with different values, needs, and body types—and you’ve got a veritable clusterf*ck of options to wade through. Whether you’re a new traveler gearing up for your first trip, a digital nomad going through a “sell-all-my-stuff-and-put-it-in-a-backpack” phase, or somewhere in between, it’s essential to have the best travel backpack that works for you.

Here’s the bottom line: There is no “best” backpack that is perfect for every traveler in every scenario. However, we believe everyone can find a pack that’s perfect for their unique needs. In this guide, we’ll break down the factors we think are most important when choosing the ideal one-bag travel backpack for you.

This guide is written and informed by Pack Hacker staff, many of whom are frequent travelers and digital nomads. That means we’re using and testing these products every day to better understand what’s available out there and how each bag may appeal to different types of travelers.

If you’d rather skip all this info and get straight to the backpacks we’ve reviewed, you can take a look at our highest-rated travel backpack list in the next section, or all of our Travel Backpack Reviews . We’re constantly updating this list as we review and rate new bags frequently.

Is It Better To Travel With a Backpack or Suitcase?

We’ve found that backpacks give you much greater mobility. You can breeze through airports. You’ll never stand around a baggage carousel after a long haul again. And as long as your pack is carry-on size compliant, you’ll never lose your luggage, ever. Depending on your travel style and what you’re hauling, it comes down to your personal preference—both roller luggage and backpacks can be good options. In this guide, we’ll focus on travel backpacks for a couple of reasons:

They Feel Freeing

You’ve got both of your hands-free, and you’re not constantly dragging something behind you. No matter what terrain you’re walking on, you’ll never have the annoyance of loud or unsteady wheels behind you from standard travel luggage. Sure, roller bags work like a charm on smooth airport and hotel floors, but how about the winding cobblestone roads of Paris or a sandy beach in Ko Pha Ngan? You can traverse almost any terrain when you’re wearing a backpack.

Best Travel Backpack | Traveling with the Osprey Farpoint 40 in India.

Travel Backpacks are Versatile & Usually Lightweight

If you pack light enough, you can comfortably have all of your belongings with you at once . Did you arrive earlier than your hotel or Airbnb check in? No problem, just take your pack around with you for the day—no need to stop by and drop your luggage off. Versatility at its finest.

We can’t necessarily guarantee the pack will be lightweight if you fill it up with a bunch of heavy stuff (like camera gear), so we made a Travel Camera Guide too 🙂.

They Provide Flexibility

You’ll take up less room on the airplane or in public transit. You’ll generally feel more agile vs needing to drag around rolly luggage, with the added benefit of not looking like an out-of-place tourist. It caters to a more adventurous lifestyle by always being ready to go. And, you can easily catch that train that’s about to depart without awkwardly side-running with a roller bag or two.

Utilizing a Backpack in Travel Contexts

In this guide, we’re going for travel versatility. We want you to look good carrying these bags around in an urban environment and have the flexibility to head out on a hike for a couple of days of camping without having your backpack ruined by the elements. If you’ve got a piece of roller luggage, it’s going to be hard to do that spontaneous half-day trek on the trail to the neighboring city you’ve been wanting to check out. Likewise, if you’re going to post up at a coffee shop for a day of office work, you’re going to look out of place with a bulky, multi-colored hiking bag. The packs mentioned in this article will blend into most city environments and are durable enough to withstand the abuse of longer excursions.

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Some of our top-rated bags for your travel backpack consideration.

The Aer Travel Pack 3 takes some of our favorite travel backpack features and puts them into one bag: helpful load lifters, easy-to-engage compression straps, and easy access to different compartments. It has Aer’s sleek signature style and is made with quality materials like CORDURA® ballistic nylon and YKK zippers, which add a ton of durability and make this a reliable bag that can withstand extended travel. In fact, this is one of our highest-rated bags and a Pack Hacker Pick because of how it’s held up on trips across the U.S., Thailand, South Korea, and more.

The organization is streamlined for easy packing, and it even includes a hidden pocket where you can tuck a smart tracker—a great feature for keeping track of your bag if it’s stolen or gets lost in transit. The harness system is super comfortable even when the bag is fully loaded and includes wide, cushioned shoulder straps with keepers to cut down on dangling. We also like that there’s an option to add a hip belt because it helps take a ton of weight off your shoulders when the bag is loaded. If you don’t need as much liter space, we recommend the Aer Travel Pack 3 Small because it takes key features from its bigger sibling and puts them in a smaller package built for shorter trips and smaller frames.

Why We Like It

• It has just-right organization and open space
• Compression straps don’t impede access to the compartments, so it’s easy to grab gear quickly

What You Should Know

• Magnetic compression buckles sometimes come undone on their own
• There isn’t a huge false bottom to the laptop compartment, which impacts tech protection—more of a nitpick, as we’ve found it’s still reliable

If you’re looking for a durable pack that can handle any adventure you throw at it, look no further than the GORUCK GR2. It’s a little on the heavier side (courtesy of the CORDURA® Nylon and beefy YKK zippers), though we think the durability is worth the weight sacrifice. We’ve fit its boxy shape under the seat in front of us on some budget airlines, which is great if you’re trying to avoid fees while you travel the world (who isn’t?). In fact, this is the bag that Pack Hacker’s founder Tom used to travel the world for over 2 years.

Though the organization inside is simple, there’s still plenty of room for packing cubes and pouches. It’s covered in PALS webbing, which we use to attach MOLLE accessories like pouches that we fill with items we want quick access to on the plane or while exploring. The customization options mean you can make the pack fit your specific needs, whether it’s Digital Nomad travel or a weekend fishing trip with your family. Plus, GORUCK has one of the best lifetime warranties in the business and a killer repair program, so if you have any issues, contact their customer service.

• The external fabrics are some of the most durable we’ve seen—it even held up when we dragged it behind a car
• Plenty of PALS webbing, so it’s easy to add modular MOLLE attachments to customize your organization
• The rugged materials and hardware add a lot of weight to the pack
• It has a tactical look and feel that’s hard to disguise if that’s not your style

Since this is a bag from Peak Design, it has some great camera features. There are plenty of attachment points inside and out for your photography gear. However, it’s an excellent travel backpack even if you don’t take a DSLR on every trip, thanks to its clean lines and clever design.

The main compartment has well-structured sides and opens clamshell to make it easy to pack, although we’ve noticed that anything we store on the bottom blocks built-in mesh pockets, so you’ll have to choose between gear storage or smooth access. They’re useful for gear you won’t need until you reach your destination, and side pockets help you get to things that you need as you travel, like your passport. There’s a well-padded sleeve for your laptop, and the front pocket has organizational features for tiny gear, which is great for getting to your essentials while sitting in your airplane seat or waiting at the gate. For times when you’re not packing as much, the compression system does an excellent job at holding gear in place.

If you find that 30L isn’t enough space or you want bring more of your photo kit, we recommend the Peak Design Travel Backpack , which has the same great features and added room for your gear. It expands to 45 liters if needed and has compression snaps to lock it down if you want to use it as a daypack.

• It has a comfortable harness system, with a sternum strap that won’t slip out of place
• Structured sides and clamshell opening create a bucket shape that’s easy to load with gear
• ID pocket on the back panel is easy to overlook, so a stranger may not see it if they find your misplaced bag
• Some main compartment pockets aren’t as accessible as we’d like, which slows you down when searching for gear

Going with a lower-capacity pack reduces size and weight, meaning you can even use it as a daypack once you arrive at your destination. However, that doesn’t mean it has to be short on features. Enter the TOM BIHN Synik 30. It’s a smaller version of the Synapse and features the same top-notch and customizable organization we’re used to seeing from TOM BIHN. That means it has multiple exterior pockets for storing gear and numerous attachment points on the interior for attaching modular pouches. While we like the ballistic nylon options because they’re sleek and durable, you can opt for a different material if you want (TOM BIHN has a ton to choose from).

The style won’t be for everyone, and its round shape can make it more challenging to pack some packing cubes and pouches, causing you to lose out on some storage space in the corners (or lack thereof). However, once you’re used to the internal organization, this is one of the smartest-designed internal layouts we’ve seen in a travel backpack.

• The internal organization is great for both travel and daily carry
• Plenty of options to add modular pouches to customize gear organization
• Has a heritage look that may not be everyone’s taste
• Rounded edges can make it harder to pack with some organizers and pouches

The Tortuga Travel Backpack 30L has a thickly padded harness system, from the shoulder straps to the hip belt and the back panel, along with vertical height adjustment and load lifters for extra support. All of these features together make for a comfortable carry even when the backpack is completely full. There are plenty of places to pack your gear, including water bottle pockets on each side, a top pocket for small items like keys, a front pocket for wide but flat items, and smaller pockets on the hip belt. You can stash your tech accessories in a well-organized admin panel, and there’s a dedicated laptop compartment as well. It includes a zippered pocket for accessories, which we love for the trips where we don’t need to bring a separate tech pouch.

The large bucket space of the main compartment is simple, with no dividers to get in the way. This means you can pack however you please, whether you load up on packing cubes or fold your clothing into neat piles—though we recommend packing cubes so that things don’t get too jostled. A mesh compartment hinges along the main compartment opening for some built-in segmentation, and you’ll find a similar feature on the Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L . While the 30L is great for smaller frames, we think the larger version is excellent if you want more space to pack. It’s even a Pack Hacker Pick !

• The smaller size means this travel backpack doubles as a daypack if desired
• Simple organization in other pockets while the main compartment is open to organize as you see fit
• Can be slow to access the large mesh pocket in the main compartment because it opens toward the inside of the pack, not the outside
• The harness system can feel a bit overkill for a bag of this size if it’s not full

The Techonaut 30 is a classic example of what makes a TOM BIHN bag great. There are a ton of durable fabric and colorway options—we like the 525D ballistic nylon because of its strength-to-weight ratio, though there are stronger and lighter-weight options available depending on your preferences. Plus, it has clever, functional organization that’s easy to load with all your gear. When we need to keep even more small items in check, we add TOM BIHN pouches to the included O-rings around the bag (we’re partial to the Ghost Whale pouches because of their size, but almost any will work).

You can carry the Techonaut 30 like a backpack, briefcase, or messenger bag, although you’ll have to get a separate strap to carry it as a messenger. We prefer backpack mode because the back panel is supportive even when all 30 liters are fully packed.

Inside, it has a variety of pockets, including an integrated water bottle pocket and two quick-grab pockets, which work in either horizontal or vertical orientation, meaning you can store gear based on the way you’re carrying the bag. Briefcase mode? Use the top pockets. Backpack? Go for the sides. However, if you need to carry some hydration, we find that the integrated water bottle pocket can cut into the main compartment, so you’ll have to trade some storage space. Though the main and bottom compartments are separated, you can expand the former via a collapsible floor, which is handy if you need a bit of flexibility with the available space. This is great if you like traveling with shoes but don’t want to buy a separate shoe pouch.

• Bottom pocket unzips to merge with the main compartment for even more storage space
• It can be carried three ways, and all of them are comfortable
• It’s tricky to see inside the top pocket because of its sideways opening
• The dedicated shoe pocket struggles to fit large shoes, which isn’t ideal for those with large feet

At less than 2 pounds, the Dragonfly is one of the lightest travel backpacks we’ve tested (and we’ve tested hundreds), yet it’s not lacking in features. The reason it’s so light is the Ultra 800™ Fabric. It’s 15 times stronger than steel by weight, twice as abrasion-resistant as nylons of the same denier, and waterproof to 200 psi, so you don’t have to worry about a rainstorm ruining your gear. The bag also has quality YKK AquaGuard zippers and Duraflex hardware. While it’s missing a ULA logo on the front, we appreciate the minimalist aesthetic.

As for gear storage, there’s a built-in carabiner and leash for your keys in the top quick-access pocket, and there are both internal and external UltraStretch™ mesh pockets to organize your gear, including large water bottle pockets. In fact, they’re so large that we’re even able to hold things like a travel tripod. Inside is a sleeve that can hold up to a 15-inch laptop or a hydration bladder, depending on what you plan to do that day. Once you’re all loaded up, internal compression straps help to hold your clothing or packing cubes in place.

However, you sacrifice a little in the harness system in the name of weight. A sturdy back panel has thin padding with aeration, and the shoulder straps have similar aeration but not as much padding. The sternum strap is also thin but helps take a little weight off when the pack is full. Plus, there are a lot of attachment loops all over the pack, which is great for modularity.

• The oversized bottle pockets fit a variety of bulky gear and up to 64-ounce bottles
• It has a quite spacious main compartment
• It can be hard to zip when fully packed
• The shoulder straps aren’t overly padded, which may not be suited for all body types

The VX21 X-Pac material on the Able Carry Max Backpack gives it a sporty look that we like, and there’s also 1000D CORDURA® nylon on the underside for durability. You won’t have to worry about the sturdiness of this bag, as it’s well-constructed, with reinforced stitching in key areas. There is plenty of room in the laptop compartment for up to a 17-inch computer and organization for your tech gear. Loops and strips of webbing around the bag give you the flexibility to pack it however you wish, and there are two quick-grab pockets for gear you want to get at as you travel. You can even get a third quick-access spot if you use the internal bottle pocket instead of the one outside the bag for hydration.

The Max Backpack is really comfortable to carry and easy to adjust. The shoulder straps have dense padding and breathable mesh undersides, with X-Pac on top for durability and style. While the tablet pocket is a bit shallow, we don’t have too many problems during regular use.

• It’s easy to customize organization thanks to webbing and loop attachment points
• The durable fabrics are held together with equally-sturdy stitching
• The X-Pac material may not suit everyone, though you can always opt for CORDURA® nylon
• A rear pocket is a bit narrow and tricky to access

This durable bag is made with recycled and bluesign® approved polyester and a PFAS-free DWR coating, which is great if you’re an eco-friendly traveler. It has a bit of an outdoorsy look, which is to be expected from Osprey. However, the external storage is hard to beat if you’re the adventurous type. A large front stash pocket holds a water bottle or damp gear like a rain jacket or towel, and there’s also a decent-sized top pocket for smaller accessories. We like that it’s big enough to tuck your 3-1-1 bag inside to keep it within reach through the security line at the airport. The main compartment opens fully clamshell, and is easy to pack since you can see all the space at once. A couple of mesh pockets inside help organize your gear, and compression straps hold clothing or packing cubes in place as you travel. The large laptop compartment is accessible from the outside of the bag, so you can get some work done as you wait for the plane to board.

What’s really great, though, is how comfortable you’ll be while carrying this bag. The breathable mesh back panel keeps things airy, and the harness shifts higher or lower so you can adjust it to your height and torso length. If you have a more petite frame but want to carry the same amount of gear, try the Osprey Fairview 40. As opposed to coming straight over your shoulders, these curve in and around, making it easier to carry for more petite users of any gender.

• The harness system is comfy even when the pack is fully loaded
• An ample-sized main compartment makes this a great pick for one bag travel
• You can’t remove the bulky hip belt even if you don’t need it
• There aren’t any dedicated bottle pockets, and the front pocket can be tight for larger bottles

The 35L Minaal Carry-On 3.0 for one bag travel is aesthetically sleek and has smart features to improve quality of life on your trip. If you carry a lot of tech, you may appreciate that the laptop compartment lays completely flat, making it easy to load and access on the go. It has a suspended laptop sleeve that you can adjust to different sizes, so your 13-inch MacBook Air isn’t drowning in a pocket designed for a big gaming computer. Plus, the shoulder straps hide away behind a zipping panel, which we find makes it easy to slide this backpack into an overhead bin.

The main compartment opens clamshell for easy packing and includes some built-in organization. However, unlike most other backpacks, you load the bag into the “scoop” section (the front of the bag) instead of the back. This takes a little getting used to, though it’s easy to use once you do. While we recommend taking advantage of packing cubes for most of your gear, there is a large mesh pocket at the top, along with a nylon pouch below it where you can pack shoes. Two external pockets give you quick access to your wallet, phone, and small accessories, and there’s also a security pocket behind the back panel for your passport. Just be careful when using the water bottle pocket, as they can slip out even when the bungee is tight.

• It’s great to be able to securely carry devices of different sizes in the adjustable sleeve
• Excellent accessibility since both compartments open fully clamshell
• You have to pack it “scoop side down,” which can get unwieldy without packing cubes
• The bungee designed to hold a bottle in place doesn’t always work as intended, and some bottles slip out

Some packs are designed with a specific use in mind, and others are designed to be as versatile as possible. Every once in a while, you’ll come across a bag that does both (and does it well). The features on EVERGOODS’ Civic Travel Bag 35L, or CTB35, make it one of the most versatile travel backpacks we’ve seen on the market.

There’s plenty of organization to choose from without going over the top, meaning there’s a spot for large and small gear alike. The main compartment has ample space, so we’re able to fit everything from a camera cube to bulky shoes inside, and it even has a few zippered pockets for small items like tech. As for external storage, there’s a built-in yoke pocket on the top and a vertical zippered pocket on the front that we like to use as a dump pocket for our phone, wallet, keys, and more while going through airport security. Plus, there’s an easily accessible laptop compartment if you work on the go. The harness system is contoured nicely, which makes this backpack incredibly comfortable to wear even when fully packed, so we have no problem carrying it all day long.

We like the 35-liter option because it’s big enough to work for long trips. However, if you’re into the organization but want something smaller, it also comes in a 26-liter size (which we like equally as much).

• The harness is well-padded and comfortable even when the pack is completely full of gear
• It strikes a balance between built-in organization and empty space, so you’re not pigeonholed into packing your gear a specific way
• Since the organization is so minimal, you’ll need to find a way to manage things like clothing—we recommend utilizing packing cubes
• We find it difficult to stow the hip belt without it twisting a bit, so it takes a bit of finesse to get right

We like the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag so much that we chose it for the first iteration of our Vacation Packing List . The large size makes sense because you can fit more gear; however, there’s a smaller 30-liter size that we find is better for smaller-framed folks and people who want to save space. Why do we like it so much? We’re happy you asked!

These packs have built-in organization options inside the main compartment, including a divider with zippered pockets that we use to stow smaller items like socks and underwear, but it’s also great for tech or miscellaneous gear. There’s also a large second compartment, a dedicated laptop compartment, and a quick-grab pocket on the front that’s handy for gear you’ll need throughout the day. While all of this organization is great, it’s worth mentioning that all of these zippered pockets are pretty shallow, so you’ll have to pack strategically to ensure your bag will zip up when everything is loaded in. On the plus side, the liner is brightly colored, which makes finding your stuff that much easier!

If all of that space isn’t enough for you, there are attachment points on the front of the bag where you can attach an additional daypack. The harness system isn’t our favorite because there’s no frame sheet to add structure and it can feel pretty heavy when it’s all packed out, but the hip belt does a good job taking some weight off your shoulders.

• There’s ample organization to segment your gear, making it easier to find
• The bright liner material adds a ton of visibility when we’re looking for our stuff in the multiple zippered pockets
• Can be difficult to slide a laptop into the dedicated compartment when the bag is fully packed because of how it starts to bulge
• It’s not the most comfortable bag we’ve worn for extended periods because the back panel lacks significant structure

While some travel backpacks fit best in an urban setting, the Allpa 35L Travel Pack works as a hiking or work bag as well as a travel pack. However, just because it can serve other purposes doesn’t mean it’s lacking in the travel department. It has a refined design and ample space that make it easy to pack for vacation, with mesh dividers and organizers inside to help you keep your gear sorted. While the exterior materials aren’t very structured, you’re unlikely to reach for this large of a bag unless you plan to pack it out, so it’s not always noticeable. The polyester is coated with TPU for water resistance, so your gear is safe as you walk in nearly any weather.

If you’re getting started on your journey into one bag travel, you can get the Allpa with an accessory bundle that includes mesh laundry bags, a nylon shoe bag, and a snap-on mesh water bottle sleeve. You also have the option to add-on Cotopaxi’s Batac Daypack, so you can have a complete travel system ready with just one click. And in case you needed another reason to consider Cotopaxi, you should know that their bags are made in the Philippines in a factory committed to fair labor and environmentally-sound practices, so you can feel good about your purchase, too.

• It’s a ruggedly durable backpack if you’re a more adventurous traveler
• The bag feels roomy and conveniently-placed pockets for small gear storage
• Hip belt isn’t removable if it doesn’t fit, and the pockets often feel too snug when wearing the bag
• It’s on the heavy side for its size

Decisions, decisions… Navigating the not-so-clear world of travel packs.

Video Guide Part 2: Form

Feel free to watch this guide section in video format. We’ll keep the written content on this page up to date.

Be sure to subscribe to Pack Hacker on YouTube and never miss a video. We also have these videos in a series playlist format on YouTube so you can watch them easier.

Best Backpack Size & Weight for Carry-On Air Travel

We favor smaller bags that fit in the overhead bin. Yes, it can be a challenge to fit your entire life into a 40L bag, but wow, is it worth it!. Trust us—you can fit your entire life into an 18L backpack if you’re disciplined, and we highly recommend staying under 50L for one bag travel. Life is just easier with a smaller & lighter backpack. If you want to cheat a bit and get some extra space, you can also go the sling bag on the front, backpack on the back route.

Airlines can get pretty stingy around the amount of weight you can bring on board. It’s essential to make sure your backpack itself isn’t too heavy, or you won’t be able to fit in as much clothing and other travel gear. We’re all for less clothing and gear, but we are not for getting hit with extra fees if your carry-on is overweight. Starting out with a bag that’s already too heavy before you’ve packed it is just setting yourself up for failure! We calculate a carry-on compliance score for every travel backpack reviewed on our site using its dimensions and data we collect from most airlines worldwide.

True Volume

It’s easy to get caught up in all this talk around liters of a backpack. There’s really no “industry standard” around this, and the liter size of a pack can vary from brand to brand. What’s more important is the “True Volume” of a backpack and how usable the space is. Some weird, trapezoid-shaped backpack will certainly be more of a challenge than something with a larger, rectangular compartment. The thickness and flexibility of the material matter as well. A thin, strong material will leave you with more space inside of a backpack than something with thick padding in the liner. However, a rigid material—Dyneema, for instance—doesn’t have much additional flex and isn’t very forgiving when you’re trying to pack your bag to the brim. The efficiency of space can make or break the usefulness of a pack.

Pack’s Exterior Profile

The slimness of a pack can help out quite a bit. Not only does it seem less heavy because the weight is close to your back, but it has the added benefit of giving you a smaller, slimmer form factor. With this, you won’t be taking up too much room on public transit or smacking people in the face when you’re boarding the airplane—it’ll be a better experience for you and everyone around you.

Max Legal Carry-On

Otherwise known as “MLC,” Max Legal Carry-On size covers the largest acceptable backpack size for carrying on most airlines. Make sure to check with your airline before arriving at the airport, though—size limits can vary based on the airline you’re flying with.

The Peak Design Travel Backpack is a well-executed travel bag from a company with an excellent track-record of bringing innovative and unique designs to the backpack world. This maximum legal carry-on can easily handle one bag travel, photography, or digital nomading with ease—and it will be a joy to use for any of those activities.

Top-loading vs Panel-loading (Clamshell) Backpacks

There’s a big debate around clamshell and top-loading packs. We’re personally a fan of clamshell for one-bag travel, as it gives you more open space to work with. Clamshell functions more like a suitcase and opens literally like a clam. You can easily open it up flat and see everything inside, so it tends to be easier to organize all your travel gear.

The Able Carry Max Backpack is a clamshell-style backpack that opens to give you easy access to a spacious main compartment—this works great for packing cubes or rolled up clothing—whichever you prefer! Also, it’s got a large but low-profile water bottle pocket.

Top-loading packs are great if you’re on a long, multi-day trek or participating in other outdoor-focused activities as there’s no main zipper that can fail you (which could be catastrophic if you’re halfway up Mt. Everest).

The Thule Subterra 34L is a top-loading backpack with a roll top opening. A top loader’s usual pitfalls are fixed by an easy to access side zip that allows entry to the main compartment. This zip comes in handy when you don’t have time to mess around with the roll top, or you want to grab something located at the bottom of the bag.

Weather Resistance

Best Travel Backpack | The GORUCK GR2 features “weather resistance” but it’s not “waterproof.”

Weather resistance is another key component to consider for one bag travel. With all your tech gear and expensive possessions in your pack, you don’t want it to get wet. We look for packs with some great weather resistance that’ll easily get you through light rain and ideally through 20 minutes of a monsoon in Southeast Asia. There’s a big difference between waterproof and water-resistant bags. We’re mainly focused on the latter, as this will be plenty in most situations. Sure, waterproof is more secure, but unless you’re leaving your pack outside in a torrential downpour for hours on end or plan to go snorkeling with your laptop on your back, there’s no need for that extra tech.

The Mission Workshop Fitzroy VX utilizes weatherproof materials and weather-resistant zippers. We’ve found it to hold up decently in a downpour. Even if you’re caught in a pretty torrential rainstorm, you should be okay with the PET waterproof membrane.

Got something that needs some additional weatherproofing? Consider picking up a DAKA Pouch . It’ll give your valuables that extra layer of protection without requiring you to purchase an entirely waterproof bag—plus, these pouches double as organizers, separating your precious gear from the rest of your loadout with some additional protection to boot. It’s a win-win.

Durability and Quality

Whether you’re traveling for a week, a month, or a year plus, your backpack is pretty much your home, so you don’t want it to break. Take it from us—the last thing you want is to find out that you lost your phone charger because your zipper broke during the journey to your next accommodation. Investing in a good backpack will prevent loss and damage to your gear, and higher quality products will last for several years. It can be a challenge to tell if a backpack is durable right out of the box, which is why we test bags as much as possible to notice any faults. Higher durability usually means higher weight, but not always. Here are a couple of key considerations we’ve found when it comes to durability.

When it comes to durability, the Topo Designs Travel Bag 40L doesn’t mess around. The 1000D nylon, beefy YKK #10 zippers, and simplistic design all come together to create a bag that won’t let you down.

YKK zippers are some of the best around, so naturally, the best travel backpack brands tend to use them. They’re super strong and have different weights depending on the area of the pack they’re used. A YKK #10 will keep a main compartment secure, whereas a YKK #5 may be suited for smaller side pockets that don’t receive as much use or tension.

YKK is obsessed with quality, and they do everything in-house. They smelt their own brass, forge their own zipper teeth, and even make the machines that make their zippers and the cardboard boxes they ship in! Needless to say, you probably won’t end up with any broken zippers with YKK on your side. YKK zippers also account for about half of all zippers in the world, so that says something. Although less popular, RiRi zippers are pretty great too. Both RiRi and YKK are superior to any other zipper made in-house by a bag manufacturer, and Zoom Zippers are climbing up on that list as well, though we still find intermittent issues with them.

Backpack Fabric and Material

There are a ton of fabrics and materials out there, too. When looking at fabrics, you’ll often see a number followed by a D—250D, 950D, 1500D, etc. The D stands for denier, a term used to measure the fabric’s thickness and weight—specifically the yarn. The formal definition is the mass (in grams) per 9,000 meters of thread, so lightweight fabrics (like silk) have a very low denier, while heavier fabrics have a higher denier. When it comes to backpacks, a higher denier is not necessarily better. In general, a higher denier will be more durable (depending on the fabric & weave) but also heavier. While the denier can tell you the weight and thickness of a material, the type of material, weave, and manufacturing involved will ultimately tell you more about its strength and durability. Here are some materials you’ll come across when selecting your pack, along with the pros and cons of each one.

Ripstop Nylon

Pretty close in property to standard nylon, “ripstop” nylon has a unique square weave that prevents further tearing from happening after a puncture. It has an incredibly high strength-to-weight ratio, and, as the name implies, it is highly resistant to rips and tears. The reason why it’s so strong is that additional fibers are sewn into the weave. Ripstop Nylon was developed in World War II as a more robust alternative to silk parachutes and is currently used in ejector seat parachutes for fighter pilots!

Ballistic Nylon

Ballistic Nylon refers to any nylon fabric with a “ballistic weave,” a variation on the simple basketweave. This gives it excellent tensile and tear strength—especially when layered—and makes it heavier than a lot of other materials. Keep in mind that ballistic nylon almost exclusively comes in black. Why is it called ballistic? It was initially used on flak jackets for World War II airmen to protect them from artillery-shell and bullet fragmentations. PSA: We do not recommend the use of backpacks for protection in war zones.

CORDURA® Nylon

CORDURA® is not a fabric in and of itself—it is a brand covering a whole host of different materials, from cotton to nylon to polyester. What they do is take fabric from various mills, inspect it to make sure it’s up to their standards, and then slap that CORDURA® tag on it. Yes, it’s a bit deceiving, but they do put out some high-quality stuff. You’ll mostly always see a “®” next to “CORDURA” (in all caps) because #branding and #lawyers.

Kodra Nylon

Kodra is virtually synonymous with CORDURA® but made in Korea. Peak Design opted for this in V1 of their Everyday Backpack.

Polyester is one of the most common fabrics on the planet. It’s made from plastic fibers, and you can find it pretty much everywhere—in clothing, pillows, seat belts, upholstery, rope, the list goes on… Oh, and backpacks. Polyester is not the most durable fabric, so you’ll usually find it on lower-end packs (think of those classic Jansport backpacks everyone had in high school). It’s really not the most suitable choice for a travel pack—as it just won’t hold up through the years. Besides lacking in durability, polyester is also fairly heavy compared to other fabrics like nylon. If you’re looking for a low-budget day pack, polyester is fine. If you’re looking for something more serious, stay away from it.

Polypropylene

Polypropylene is a polymer that is used to make fabrics. This stuff is seriously everywhere—it is the world’s second most widely produced synthetic plastic! It’s used to make ropes, carpets, labels, plastic lids on tic-tac containers, plastic chairs, long underwear…basically, if you see something made of plastic, there’s a solid chance there’s some polypropylene in it. You’ll find it mostly in minor backpack components, but it’s also used to make drawstring bags and totes like the ones that are handed out for free at a college fair or festival. Polypropylene fabric has a few things going for it. It’s cheap, it’s a good insulator because it doesn’t transfer heat very well, and it won’t absorb water since it’s hydrophobic. The major problem with polypropylene is that it is not very UV resistant. If it’s repeatedly exposed to sunlight, the fabric will fade and break down over time. This is not great for backpacks. You may, however, see polypropylene used as a liner on the inside of some packs as it won’t be affected by UV light and adds some additional protection.

You could say that canvas is the OG backpack material. Back in the day, canvas was just about the only thing you would use for a “backpack,” outside of maybe a burlap sack thrown over your shoulder. In World War II, GI’s carried all their equipment around in canvas packs and slept in canvas tents. Canvas very thick and sturdy and was historically made from cotton, linen, or hemp coated in wax for waterproofing. Today, canvas tends to be made from things like nylon and polyester. Most modern backpack companies shy away from canvas because it’s usually heavy, not overly water-resistant, and easily damaged by abrasion. If you’re looking for a canvas one-bag travel pack, you’re not going to find much out there. However, if you want the nostalgia factor, you can still find a bespoke canvas bag to satisfy that.

We may need to scrap our statement on canvas because leather is arguably as OG as it gets. Its use has been traced back as far as Ancient Greece and Rome! Like canvas, you’re not going to see many travel packs made of leather. While a leather bag can make for an excellent, stylish daypack, it’s not ideal for a long-term travel pack, mainly because of its weight. There is also a lot of potential care involved. Between protective oils and various cleaning techniques, it can be a hassle to deal with if you’re on the move. There are three grades of leather—genuine, top-grain, and full-grain.

Contrary to popular belief, genuine is the lowest grade of leather while full-grain is the highest. Full-grain is used for heavy-duty use-cases like weapon holsters and work belts, so if you’re dead set on a leather pack, we’d recommend looking for full-grain leather. Ideally, you’ll want to find something thin enough to not be overly heavy while still thick enough to ensure durability.

The actual material is called ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene… but most know it as sailcloth (yep, the same material used on a sailboat). A relatively rare material for backpacks, brands like Tortuga have taken advantage of sailcloth due to its lightweight and water-resistant properties. It is by far the most lightweight and waterproof material on our list (no need for DWR or liners), but it does have some drawbacks. It’s stiff and crinkly with zero stretch, which can cause problems if you’re trying to utilize every nook and cranny of your pack. It isn’t quite as indestructible as some other materials listed, but it’s reasonably durable and can be patched. It also tends to be one of the most expensive backpack materials out there.

Dyneema® Composite Fabric

In May 2015, Dyneema purchased Cubic Tech, the creator and manufacturer of Cuben Fiber, and rebranded it as Dyneema® Composite Fabrics. So, Dyneema® Composite Fabrics = Cuben Fiber. This stuff was initially designed for high-tech sails on racing yachts because it is ridiculously light and robust. As such, it has been adopted wholeheartedly by the ultralight backpacking community. It’s sort of like the carbon fiber of the backpack world—high-tech, super strong, super light, and…super expensive. While Dyneema® Composite Fabric is popular within the ultralight backpacking community, it has yet to become commonplace in the one-bag travel scene. That being said, if you do see Dyneema® Composite Fabric, you should know that you’re getting some of the best stuff around.

Thermoplastic polyurethane —TPU for short—is a polymer used to add strength to a material, either through a manufacturing process or coating. You’ll recognize it on products like inflatable rafts, phone cases, wire cables, and footwear. Think stuff that needs to be as durable as possible to avoid things going south for the user. It easily sheds water and oil, resists abrasions, and won’t crack in high or low temps, making it ideal for frequent outdoor use. Unlike polypropylene, TPU is UV-resistant and won’t be subjected to the same amount of fading over time. If you’re the type of traveler who wants extra peace of mind on the go, you’ll want to keep an eye out for TPU because of the extra strength it adds to a pack, but we wouldn’t consider a lack of TPU a deal-breaker.

X-Pac is not so much a fabric as it is a bunch of fabrics smooshed together. With the help of lamination technology, it combines complementary materials to make an overall higher-performing product. Though there are variations in denier and waterproofing, it’s most commonly made up of a nylon face for durability, polyester mesh for strength, and waterproof film that won’t disappear over time. Like Dyneema® Composite Fabrics, it was inspired by the efficiency of sailcloth but is a less costly option that provides a similar level of ultralight performance. It holds its shape over time, won’t fade with UV exposure, and easily sheds moisture, making it great for outdoor enthusiasts who hike and bike with their pack on the regular. However, it may be a bit overkill for casual travelers unless you’re looking for a backpack for epic mountain climbing adventures.

Ultimately, the production process and design will dictate whether your gear will stay together. If a bag is made with 1000D CORDURA®, but it doesn’t have good zippers to match, it doesn’t matter how good the fabric is. Look for brands that proudly back their product with generous warranties, like GORUCK and their “SCARS warranty” or Patagonia and their “Ironclad Guarantee.” These brands know they make quality products, so they’re happy to back it up. If a brand offers no warranty or a short warranty, there’s probably a financial reason for that, and the quality may not be as high. We’re all about buying quality pieces that last versus something that’s going to need repair or replacement year after year.

Whether you’re hopping on a plane or navigating city streets, you need a backpack that can hold up.

Video Guide Part 3: Function

Best Backpack for Comfortable Wear and Extended Travel

Comfort is a big deal when it comes to one-bag travel—especially if you plan to carry the bag around with you for hours on end. You’ll want a high-quality harness that works with the shape of your body. When selecting a bag, it’s crucial to take your height and body type into consideration. Although this matters more for hiking backpacks where you’re carrying a ton of gear, it’s less important for smaller, one-bag travel packs. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t think about it before you make a purchase. A backpack suited for someone that’s 6’5″ and 250 pounds probably isn’t the best travel backpack for someone that’s 5’3″ and 140 pounds. Buying something that doesn’t fit your frame correctly will make for some seriously uncomfortable travel.

Men’s Focused Fit Vs Women’s Focused Fit

Some backpacks are only available with a “one size fits all” harness system, but there is an ever-increasing number of women’s focused fit and men’s focused fit travel backpacks on the market. For example, the Thule Landmark 40L , REI Ruckpack 40 , and Deuter AViANT Carry On Pro 36 are all available in two different fits. The differences are subtle but have a big impact on how comfortable the harness system is on your frame. Compared to a men’s focused fit, a women’s focused fit backpack will typically feature:

• Smaller hip belt with a more pronounced curve

Backpack Straps

You’ll want to look for bags with high-quality straps that work for your body type. A mismatch here could lead to an uncomfortable carry, even with only a little weight inside.

Even though the GlobeRider45 has the functionality and looks of a travel backpack, it carries more like a daypack. Its shoulder straps feature dense padding that curves and falls naturally to the body. A relatively high top area does give it a very slight hiking backpack feel, but it’s an overall tameable bag to travel with, considering its 45-liter storage capacity.

The thickness of straps doesn’t necessarily matter. Thinner straps that use high-quality foam may be more comfortable than thicker, bulkier straps.

If you’re concerned with weight, look for bags that include load lifters – these are the adjusters that appear at the top of the straps. This concept is borrowed from larger hiking backpacks and does wonders for fitting the bag well to your back with different loads.

Some straps swivel and pivot to cater to different shoulder widths and make it easier to quickly flip the pack around to access the goods you’ve got inside.

We’re middle-of-the-road on hip belts for one-bag travel backpacks. They can help a ton if you’ve got a heavier load or plan to carry your pack for long stretches but aren’t necessary if you pack minimally in a smaller pack.

A good hip belt should be comfortable and secure without becoming too cumbersome. There are few things worse than hitting people with your bulky hip belt while walking down the aisle of an airplane. We’d recommend taking a look at travel backpacks that feature a detachable or hideable hip belt, so you don’t have to use it when you don’t need to.

Sternum Straps

Nearly all travel backpacks include a sternum strap. They’re designed to distribute some weight away from your shoulders and secure the shoulder straps across your chest.

While sternum straps are all pretty similar across the board, there are a couple of things we’d recommend looking out for. First, some will feature an elasticated portion that allows the strap to flex with your body as you walk. We’re big fans of these. Second, some sternum straps can be detached, leaving them vulnerable to falling off when not in use. We’re not kidding; this has happened to us on multiple occasions. Not good, especially when you’re traveling halfway around the world in remote locations! A detachable sternum strap is great when you don’t always need to use one, and it makes adjusting the height easy. Just make sure it’s secure and adequately anchored to the shoulder straps.

A well-designed back panel can make things much more comfortable. Although it’s hard to avoid the old sweaty back with more extended periods of wear in hotter climates, well-ventilated mesh and foam can help with this. A curved frame can help with ergonomics and ventilation, but we don’t see this on many travel-focused backpacks. Sometimes, it seems like overkill.

How Do you Pack the Thing?

With all these fancy features, it’s essential to consider how you should use them and how you pack your bag. Generally speaking, you want to load the heaviest items closest to your back. This’ll ensure the heaviest bits of your bag are the closest to your center of gravity, pulling you down less from the back of the bag.

Best Travel Backpack | Configuring a backpack.

If you’ve got all the features mentioned above, you want to strap and tighten your hip belt first, then adjust the shoulder straps, then tighten the load lifter straps (the straps on top) to a 45° angle, and finally, adjust and tighten the sternum strap.

The Heimplanet Travel Pack 34L (V2) has a horseshoe zipper at the top front of the pack, which opens up to allow you to reach into the main compartment and grab essential items rather than opening up the full clamshell. It also features liter independent compartments and pockets, which are great for packing to the absolute limits. Check out the smaller 28L version, too.

Modular Backpack System

If you want more options for customization, check out modular gear. To put it simply, this is gear that brands design to work with their bags. They allow you to make a bag suit your preferences, adding and swapping parts as needed instead of trying to fit your gear into the organization already installed in your pack. Anyone who uses a bag with PALS webbing, for example, will tell you how convenient it is to have loops ready where they can stick MOLLE accessories. Whereas PALS webbing and MOLLE attachments are one of the better-known standards out there, brand-specific modularity and attachment systems also exist.

In fact, some brands, like ALPAKA , TOM BIHN , Boundary Supply , and Roark , are known for it. We like to count how many O-rings we can find on each TOM BIHN bag we buy because that’s where we can clip the brand’s key leashes, admin pouches, packing cubes, and more.

These great for carrying tiny travel accessories wherever we go. Sizes range from Super Mini, which can hold AirPods, chapstick, and similarly sized items, to A5, which is big enough for an A5-size notebook and pens. They’re made from scrap fabric, so you can feel good about saving them from the cutting room floor. They clip to the O-rings in a TOM BIHN bag or a loop on another backpack to save you from digging for small gear.

ALPAKA’s HUB Ecosystem lets you swap your keys, sanitizer, card holder, and more between your bags. Pull the Hypalon tab to release the magnetic fastener to swap your gear, then attach it to different points throughout their bags or the HUB ModPanel hanging in your house. Then you’ll always be able to find your keys.

The Prima System includes a 30L travel backpack, the Fieldspace admin panel, and Verge Camera Case. The Fieldspace holds a tablet or small laptop, plus small accessories, docking to the laptop compartment with a magnet, so it’s removable if you don’t need it. The camera case is also fully customizable and can sit inside the pack, connect to its exterior, or be carried separately.

Organization: Multiple Travel-Focused Features or One Big Compartment?

Some backpacks take the approach of having a massive inner compartment with no organization. This is great if you’re planning on using some packing cubes or compression sacks, but not so great if you want a little more internal organization out of the box. More things to consider: is there a dedicated place to put a pen or two for those pesky customs forms? Is it easy to grab? How about a dedicated laptop compartment (or, for that matter, a dedicated laptop bag )?

This iteration of Tortuga’s travel backpack design gives more control to the user. It has fewer organization options than its predecessors, but the extra space and weight savings can be better used for packing cubes and organizers. Those already invested in such accessories will find the wide and spacious main compartment easy to fill and navigate.

Packing Cubes

Packing cubes can be a great addition to your luggage regardless of whether the bag is one massive compartment or has a couple of smaller pockets inside. Packing cubes allow you to organize clothing between type, outfits, clean or dirty, and much more.

The Osprey Transporter Global Carry-On’s size and shape make it easy to pack with cubes. Plus, the light gray interior makes it easy to find your gear.

Compression and Expandability

If you’re going with one bag, versatility is essential. Ideally, your pack will cater to different amounts of items that are packed in the bag.

Some packs even offer detachable daypacks, but they tend to be slightly larger in liters to justify the additional use of materials (extra zippers and extra straps.) If you’re looking for a small travel daypack , consider some highly compressible bags from Matador . There won’t be any padding on these, but you could also pair these with a padded field pocket from GORUCK or a padded laptop compartment if you want to cafe-hop and work for the day.

If you are looking for a more padded daypack, a Mystery Ranch In and Out Packable Daypack , or something like a Fjallraven Kanken 13″ Laptop Backpack could work. At the end of the day, you’re packing another set of straps, padding, and zippers—all space and weight that’s being subtracted from your main pack.

We like sticking to one bag whenever possible, and there are some bags out there with the right size and look that can be used as a daypack and for one bag travel.

The Thule Aion 28L Backpack expands to 32L when you need more space for a trip. Use the extra room when you’re traveling, then empty it and compress it back down when you arrive at your destination to have a slimmer bag that can be used as a daypack while walking around.

Another great option is the Osprey Farpoint 40 , mentioned above. One of our team members has utilized the compression straps to carry his tripod while traveling to numerous countries.

Security Backpacks

Be on the lookout for packs with great security features. Are the zippers lockable with TSA approved locks? Are there separate secret security compartments to place your passport and other valuables in hard-to-reach places? Is it made of a solid material to prevent the quick slash-and-grab? Are the outer pockets minimized to make it hard for a thief to unzip and grab what they want quickly?

A lot of safety when traveling comes down to common sense and your own self-awareness, but there are a couple of pack features that can make your trips a little bit safer.

Lockable Zippers & Anti-Theft Backpacks

Some packs offer lockable zippers, or special looped zipper pulls that can be configured to deter thieves. Locking the zippers on your pack won’t turn it into an anti-theft backpack—someone can still take it or cut through the fabric—but it can help stop wrongdoers from quickly unzipping your bag for a quick-grab, or make them move to the next easily accessible bag on a train or bus. No backpack is impenetrable, though, and some of these features on backpacks can be gimmicky—included just so the purchaser has some peace of mind—even if the benefit isn’t that great. Peak Design’s security features (example below) and PacSafe’s Tough Zip put a lot of emphasis on that extra layer of security.

The zippers on the Peak Design Travel Backpack come with multiple locking features. This won’t necessarily deter all theft, but it’ll stop anyone from the old unzip & grab trick, and it won’t be against TSA Guidelines.

Anti-Theft Backpack Materials

Some bags offer more robust fabric that naturally enforces the bag. As we mentioned before, materials like Ballistic Nylon, CORDURA®, and others are super helpful with this. Some companies even include special mesh wiring, like Pacsafe’s eXomesh®, that almost theft-proof your backpack, allowing you to lock it to a fixed object for added security. EXomesh® is either lined inside the fabric and can also be purchased externally with other backpacks. For the type of traveling we do, we think this is a little paranoid and adds some weight plus another thing to carry. But depending on your situation, it could be helpful. Strolling through Tokyo? Probably not necessary. Heading to Barcelona for the first time? Yeah, we’ll take that extra layer of security.

RFID Blockers (Identity Theft-Proof Backpacks)

We feel that having a bunch of RFID-blocking tech covering an entire backpack is overkill. Sure, it’ll stop folks from electronically scanning your passport, but If you’re concerned with this, you could get a special wallet or wrap your passport & cards in aluminum foil. Let’s face it—it’s much less effort for a thief to physically grab what they want from you than dicking around with RFID technology. But again, whatever helps you sleep at night. If it’s a 100% secure backpack you seek, we’re not going to stop you.

If you’re looking for a secure travel pack, the Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP35 offers some great features for exactly that. From the eXomesh® slash-proof material to the secure zippers and RFID secure pockets, there is some great thinking that went into this pack along with some solid materials.

You know what they say—“It’s not how you feel, it’s how you look.” Or something like that...

Video Guide Part 4: Aesthetic

Finding the Best Travel Backpack Style For You

At the end of the day, the look and feel of a travel backpack should be right for you and your tastes. There are many things to consider as far as aesthetics go we’ll pull in here for consideration. Stylish “urban travel” backpacks became a lot more popular within the last couple of years, and that’s the look we prefer. Gone are the days of international travel with a big blaze-orange hiking backpack. Those certainly have a utility, but that utility is in the wilderness. Here are a couple of overall style points for your consideration:

Minimalist Travel Backpacks

When you’re in a new country, think a bit about how you want to be perceived. If you’re heading to a more crowded or dicey area, nothing screams tourist like having a large, colorful backpack while looking up at tall buildings or a landmark in awe. It’s easier to keep a low profile and blend in a little if you’re not carrying around a monstrosity of a bag that acts as an advertisement for thieves and wrongdoers looking to target travelers for their own gain. It’s an added bonus if you can roll into a meeting wearing one of these things. As one-bag travel has become increasingly popular in recent years, we’re seeing many solid urban packs coming out that are built specifically with one-bag travel in mind.

• Minaal Carry-On 3.0

Tacticool Backpacks

There are a ton of great, high-quality bags out there that are made to military spec. There’s some really great utility to things like MOLLE for customizing your pack and including other accessories on your bag, and the stronger materials make for highly durable bags. Keep in mind that some folks may perceive you as being in the military if your bag has too much digi camo going on. It’s one thing if the pack is all black & subdued, but another if it’s camo and filled with patches. If this is your look, go for it, but this type of pack might also bring about some “unwanted attention” in certain parts of the world.

• Mission Workshop Radian

Outdoor & Hiking Backpacks

Think sportier packs with lots of pockets, brighter colors, and louder material. For a long time, outdoor backpacks were the only option for long-term one-bag travelers. They tend to be bulky and are built to carry big, heavy loads over long distances. This typically means lots of straps and a tall pack that will peek up over your head. Great for an extended camping excursion, not so great for a trip through the airport or a newly-discovered city square. They also tend to scream “TOURIST.” No one casually walks around with a giant hiking backpack.

• Gregory Zulu 40

Backpacker Backpacks

If it’s not already obvious, the “Backpacker Backpack” is designed specifically for backpacking around the world. Typically from manufacturers that also make outdoor and hiking backpacks, this is the go-to style for anyone on a gap year looking to tick off as many countries in Southeast Asia as possible. And because of that, they’re some of the most popular bags on the market today. Sure, you’ll still look like a tourist—albeit not as much as you would wearing a hiking backpack—but that’s fine because that’s exactly what you’re doing.

• Gregory Detour 40

Heritage Backpacks

These bags are engineered with a classic look in mind. Most will be some variation of the one-compartment style with leather straps, subdued colors, and some type of canvas-y material. These packs look great but can sometimes lack functionality and comfort. Although there are a few bespoke style travel bags (we like Vinta and Rivendell Mountain Works), most will fall into the daypack category.

• Red Oxx C-ruck Carry-on Rucksack

Having said all of this, aesthetic is subjective, and beauty remains in the eye of the beholder. This is why we conduct weekly polls over on our Instagram to get our communities’ take on the look of bags. Follow us on Instagram to cast your votes! You can find all the results of the polls on our individual review pages too, so you can see how well a bag you’re looking for has performed.

The humble backpack: It’ll get you through anything and everything...

There Really is No “Best Travel Backpack”

Although, there is a best travel backpack for you. All this boils down to your preferences.

When we first started creating this guide, we admittedly thought there would be one best bag for travel, but the deeper we dug, the more we realized it depends on your needs as an individual traveler. Sure, there are generally guiding principles to follow, and a bag made out of cardboard objectively won’t last, but there are too many quality backpacks out there to pick just one. If you’re on a short trip, a lighter, less durable pack will suit you well. If you’re headed to Southeast Asia during the monsoon season, you may want some heavy-duty weatherproofing.

We wish you the best of luck moving forward with your selection. Still want more? Be sure to check out our other guides and travel gear reviews too!

Our team at Pack Hacker developed the “best travel backpack” guide in partnership with our friends (and bag experts) at Carryology . We’re constantly updating this guide as new backpacks are released, and the travel landscape changes.

Author: Tom Wahlin

Tom has lived out of a 40L backpack for 2 years of travel, helping him learn what to pack and what to leave behind. His top achievements include designing for Apple and eating large quantities of ramen (ongoing).

Gonex 80L Water Repellent Duffel Bag Backpack

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Water Resistant PVC Fabric: The Gonex 80L duffle bag is crafted from high-density 1200D PVC, ensuring exceptional durability and lightweight performance. Please note that the lining inside and zippers are not waterproof, so avoid soaking the bag in water.

Collapsible & Foldable: Experience the convenience of this duffle bag, which can be effortlessly folded into the included drawstring storage bag for easy carrying. The bag comes with removable and convertible shoulder straps, allowing you to use it as a backpack, shoulder bag, or cross-body bag. Additionally, the side soft handles enable comfortable hand-carrying and lifting.

Scientific & Organized: The large main compartment of this 80L duffle bag features a U-shaped opening, providing convenient access to your belongings. It also includes two spacious mesh pockets for storing valuables like tablets, phones, and wallets. The bag further boasts a dedicated shoe compartment and a braided belt with hanging points for organizing your tools and gear.

Versatile & Multifunctional: The Gonex 80L duffle bag is designed for versatile use, making it suitable for hiking, camping, traveling, trekking, cycling trips, self-driving adventures, and more. Its heavy-duty construction ensures reliability and performance in any situation.

Capacity: 80L.

Material: 1200D high-density PVC fabric.

Weight: 3.28 lbs.

1 x Gonex 80L Waterproof Duffle Holdall Bag Convertible Backpack.

At Gonex, we are committed to delivering your outdoor gear and traveling equipment safely and efficiently. Please take a moment to review our shipping guide to ensure a seamless shopping experience.

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Once your order is placed, our team works diligently to process and pack your items. Our standard processing time is typically 1-2 business days. During peak seasons, processing may take slightly longer, but we always strive to get your order ready as quickly as possible.

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Please note that the estimated delivery times provided above refer to the number of business days it takes for a package to be delivered after it has been processed and left our warehouse. Due to factors such as customs clearance, local holidays, and unforeseen circumstances, these estimated delivery times may vary. We recommend allowing for some extra time when planning your travel.

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If you have any further questions or need assistance, please don't hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team . Happy shopping and exploring the great outdoors!

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The 13 Best Travel Backpacks for Day Trips, Weeks-Long Adventures, and Everything in Between

Including Calpak, Patagonia, and Dagne Dover

Why Trust PEOPLE?

People / Brian Kopinski

As a frequent traveler, I used to opt for suitcase luggage until I found the right travel backpack.

It's one that actually maximizes storage while minimizing friction. It keeps heavy jackets , shoes, and accessories from causing shoulder and back pain, and allows room for more travel clothes . It's weatherproof or water-resistant for getting caught in the rain, and it’s definitely easier to manage while traversing cobblestones, trains, and other areas where a roller suitcase just doesn’t cut it. That's the gold standard for travel backpacks — and we found 13 that fit the job.

Whether you prefer a tried-and-true laptop backpack for a work-from-vacation weekend or a standard bag for longer trips, read on for the best travel backpacks as determined by editors, travelers, and shoppers alike.

Best Travel Backpacks Under $75

Matein travel backpack.

With 80,000+ five-star ratings, this backpack is praised for its storage and organization, including a laptop pocket, front pocket, hidden anti-theft pocket for passports and other essentials, and a roomy interior. Its memory foam padding provides comfort across the straps, top handle, and back panel. Plus, it has a built-in USB charger and cable for easy access to your technology.

“I traveled with it for a weekend trip and didn’t need to pack any other bags because all my clothes, toiletries, tablet, and everything else fit in it,” one shopper wrote . “It’s durable and the straps are thick …so it’s really comfortable to wear.” 

Materials: Polyester, metal | Dimensions: 12 x 18 x 7.8 inches | Colors: 23

Calpak Kaya Mini Backpack

In lieu of a traditional travel purse , consider this stylish mini Calpak backpack for day trips and excursions. Its faux leather exterior, outlined stitching detail, and attractive hardware look sleek, and it has plenty of space for belongings on a day away from your luggage. It also has adjustable straps and a trolley sleeve for airport or train days. Some shoppers compliment its functionality for daily use, too, such as commuting to a coffee shop or office without having to lug a big laptop bag.

Materials: Faux leather | Dimensions: 10.65 x 8.5 x 4.25 inches | Colors: 6

Aloha Keep It Light Hana Hou Backpack

PEOPLE associate shopping director Erin Johnson lives in Hawai’i, so she relies on a water-resistant bag capable of handling a variety of day trips. “The Aloha Keep It Light Hana Hou Backpack is great for traveling because it has a laptop sleeve for those who can't live without their computer, and its water-resistant fabric means it can double as a beach or pool bag,” Johnson says.

Available in three whimsical prints and a basic black, the lightweight ripstop backpack fits everything without feeling overwhelming. It has side pockets for a water bottle, a front storage zipper pocket, and a trolley sleeve for convenience.

Editors Say

“This recently-released water-resistant nylon backpack has become my new go-to. (Seriously, I've worn it almost every day since the moment it arrived.)” — Erin Johnson , associate shopping director

Materials: Ripstop nylon | Dimensions: 12 x 5.5 x 16.5 inches | Colors: 4

Bagsmart Quick Access Carry On

For those packing largely within one backpack, this machine-washable pick will satisfy most of your needs for under $100. The 180-degree flat computer compartment has multiple organizers for tech chords and the like, with several straps and six external pockets. Inner and outer compression straps allow you to stuff the bag full while meeting most airlines’ personal item requirements. Its compartments also keep shoes, laundry, and more separated — ideal for a longer trip.

Materials: Nylon | Dimensions: 12.2 x 16.5 x 10.2 inches | Colors: 3

Best Travel Backpacks Under $150

Beis the backpack.

“Shay Mitchell really thought of everything when she was designing this bag ,” says PEOPLE shopping writer Alyssa Brascia . It’s clear the new travel show host has a serious interest in making luggage look good. Brascia used this backpack for three years before a zipper malfunction caused its early retirement. 

That said, she plans to buy another one and specifically recommends it for overpackers. Its full-zip feature grants you complete views and access rather than having to rummage from just a top opening. And yes, there is a trolley sleeve — and even a key leash in the front pocket.

“This bag is so unassumingly spacious. I could pack for an entire week-long beach trip in just this one bag: shoes, makeup, hair tools, and everything. (An incredible feat for an overpacker like myself!)” — Alyssia Brascia , shopping writer

Materials: Cotton body, PVC trim, polyester lining | Dimensions: 13 x 19 x 5.5 inches | Colors: 8

Patagonia 26L Refugio Daypack

Backcountry

Entertainment shopping director Laura Gurfein swears by the Patagonia brand, and the handy features of this Refugio daypack speak to why. It has a hydration hanger, pass-through access, breathable back panel, and bike-light clipping point, too.

Made of 100-percent recycled polyester, this durable backpack has a removable padded laptop sleeve, ideal for hitting the trails or commuting to the office. One shopper praised this versatility: “I use this all week for work, and switch it out as my day/diaper/hike bag on the weekends.” 

Materials: Recycled polyester | Dimensions: (26L) 18 x 12 x 6.5 inches, (30L) 19 x 12 x 6.5 inches | Colors: 6

Calpak Luka 15-Inch Laptop Backpack

For remote workers and digital nomads, a dedicated laptop-friendly backpack is a must for protecting your tech and peace of mind when on vacation or traveling through another city. The Calpak Luka collection gives you security and a little dash of panache. The backpack’s trendy, puffy exterior is both lightweight and scratch-resistant, and it has a padded laptop pocket, a water bottle pocket, and a shoe compartment for commutes or weekend trips.

“Despite the plush appearance, the material is incredibly durable. These bags have so many compartments for storage and are fairly lightweight. I’m a huge fan of anything in the Calpak Luka collection and this bag is no exception!” — Madison Yauger , shopping editor

Materials: Polyester | Dimensions: 16 x 12 x 7 inches | Colors: 23

People / Jhett Thompson

Best Travel Backpacks Under $200

Lululemon wunderlust backpack.

PEOPLE senior shopping editor Erika Reals flagged this Lululemon find for its aesthetic and functional features. As she frequently travels, details like its water-repellent fabric, zippered pockets, and adjustable exterior straps (for yoga mats, jackets, and the like) caught her interest immediately.

Buckled closures keep items locked in tight while a drawstring top allows for quick access when needed. The backpack has a bulky, utilitarian feel that traditional backpacking brands embody — in a smaller size — yet is polished with that Lululemon touch.

Materials: Polyester, nylon | Dimensions: 14.2 x 6.1 x 20.1 inches | Colors: 2

Dagne Dover The Dakota Backpack

Dagne Dover

Dagne Dover is known for its unique neoprene material, bold colors, and reliable durability, so it’s not a shocker that its backpack is a favorite, too. Details like a key leash and air mesh tablet sleeve offer basic organization, but this backpack is best for those wanting simplicity and a striking design. It’s available in three sizes, to store the bare-bones essentials up to a day’s worth of gear.

“I’ve had this backpack for two years and the neoprene material is such a game changer: It’s water-resistant, cushioned, and sturdy for holding heavy items such as laptops and insulated water bottles . It doesn’t have a ton of compartments, but it’s built to last.”— Madison Yauger

Materials: Neoprene | Dimensions: (S) 9.5 x 5 x 13 inches, (M) 11.5 x 5 x 17 inches, (L) 13.25 x 5.25 x 17.5 inches | Colors: 13

Calpak Terra 26L Laptop Duffel Backpack

I’ve tested dozens of bags, but the Calpak Terra 26L Laptop Duffel Backpack has stolen my heart. Its clamshell opening makes it easy to pack for week-long trips or a quick day away, and its many pockets allow me to stow dozens of gadgets and gizmos the way I prefer: separately. 

Its padded straps prevent aches while I’m standing for hours in a Border Customs line, and I appreciate that it minimizes the physical impact of my overpacking. A compression sleeve helps with underseat storage, even when I think I can’t possibly fit it under the airline seat in front of me. It’s now my go-to personal item, and I always get complimented on the stunning icy blue color. And did I mention it’s water resistant? It’s been soaked in the rain and still protected my books, sketchbooks, and other precious, fragile items.

Materials: Ripstop polyester, TPU laminate | Dimensions: 18 x 12 x 7.5 inches | Colors: 10

Away Outdoor 25L Convertible Backpack

Similarly, I’ve often opted for this convertible backpack for big trips, as it functions as a backpack or a duffel. Years in, I still reach for my Away Carry-On for most trips, and this backpack from the brand’s outdoor line embodies its same resilience and style. The water- and abrasion-resistant fabric is lightweight and has a sheen that’s oddly beautiful.

Although the design is meant to be protective, there isn’t as much structure in this backpack as in others. Despite its many pockets, organizers, and included compression straps, the 25-liter bag feels more flexible, which will appeal to shoppers seeking a lightweight and unobtrusive backpack. It packs flat, and it’s the most comfortable one I’ve tried.

Materials: 100% polyester | Dimensions: 13 x 17 x 7.6 inches | Colors: 2

Best Travel Backpacks to Splurge on

Yeti crossroads 27l backpack.

Yeti is not just for coolers and water bottles. Like the rest of the brand’s offerings , this everyday backpack is simple yet solid. It’s inspired by motorcycle gear, so it’s meant for rough-and-tumble use — and yes, it fits your tumblers, too. Multiple access points make it easy to get to any supplies right away, with a full-zip ability that lets the bag go wide.

PEOPLE shopping editor Kayla Kitts has brought this Yeti backpack on many adventures “from local festivals and park days to weekend trips and air travel." She loves that the exterior is incredibly durable and easy to wipe down, and the interior is packed with a slew of organizational features and compartments.

“Most recently, I took this bag to a music festival and filled it with a 10- x 9-foot outdoor blanket , two water bottles, various toys and books, and the Yeti Daytrip Lunch Box filled with snacks. It even toted a soccer ball to the park!” — Kayla Kitts , shopping editor

Materials: Tuffskin nylon exterior, PU-coated base | Dimensions: 12.2 x 9.4 x 20.3 inches | Colors: 4

Cotopaxi Allpa 42L Travel Pack

For longer trips stretching into weeks rather than days, adventure travelers rave about Cotopaxi’s sustainable — made from leftover fabric — and durable backpacks. The brand’s funky mix of unique fabrics are distinctive and made for any adventure. The bag’s clamshell opening is ideal for suitcase-like packing, while divided interior pockets and anti-theft zippers keep everything in place when you’re hailing buses, planes, and changing your itinerary on a dime. 

Most importantly, this backpack is built to withstand the elements and inclement weather, including an additional rain cover for protection, so you’re not worried about sacrificing your belongings. Load-lifter straps and a mesh suspension system keep this bag comfortable when your travel circumstances are anything but.

Materials: TPU-coated polyester, ballistic nylon paneling | Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 11 inches | Colors: 5

Grace Smith is a contributing travel and shopping writer who, as a frequent hotel reviewer, spends as much time as possible wandering through various destinations. She’s used to living out of a suitcase or backpack, having moved every few months for several years. And yes, she is an overpacker, so finding the right bag for quick trips, endless flights, and long stints away has been a crucial mission. With PEOPLE editor selections, shopping insights, and her own globe-trotting experience in mind, Grace curated this list of the best travel backpacks for all of your 2024 destinations.

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80L Duffle Bag for Travel, Large Foldable Waterproof Travel Duffel Bags Weekender Overnight Bag for Men and Women with Shoe Compartment (Gray)

Purchase options and add-ons

• [ 80L Large Duffle Bag ] : With a generous capacity of 80 liters, this duffle bag is roomy enough to hold the belongings of a family of 3 people for 3-5 days of travel. It weighs about 85% less than your empty suitcase, but can also provide the same solid package. Say goodbye to bulky, hard-to-store luggage and hello to the convenience of a collapsible duffle bag.
• [ Collapsible Duffle Bag ] : What sets this duffle bag apart is its collapsible design, allowing you to easily fold it down into a compact size when not in use. Always take this foldable duffle with you on any trip, open up when you need to carry gifts for your friends, or to transfer stuffs from your damaged luggage.
• [ Shoe Compartment with Air Vent ] : The spacious main compartment provides ample room for your clothing, toiletries, and other belongings, while the dedicated shoe compartment keeps your footwear separate and prevents it from coming into contact with your clean clothes. This feature is especially convenient for those who like to hit the gym before or after work, as it allows you to keep your shoes separate from your work attire.
• [ Humanized Design ] : When too much stuff is too heavy for a single person, the two side straps are useful for two people to carry together. The padded removable shoulder straps can be adjusted and locked to any desired length to carry over the shoulder to reduce weight, free up your hands. 1 zipper pocket as sleeve on the back of the duffle is designed to keep the bag secure when put over the telescoping handle of a suitcase.
• [ Machine Washable & Aircraft Check-in ] : Crafted from durable and water-resistant 1680D polyester oxford, this duffle bag is built to withstand the rigors of travel and outdoor activities can be machine washable. The sturdy construction ensures that your belongings stay protected and secure during transit.
• [ Multipurpose Duffel Bag ] : This duffle bag is both stylish and practical, it could be served as duffel bags for traveling, weekender bag, overnight bag, moving bag, camping duffle bag, garment duffle bag, moving kids to college, etc. Avoiding excess baggage fees, pack souvenirs and replace broken suitcase(as a just-in-case bag) in travel. It also can be used as a dirty laundry compartment at home.We offer 180 Days Warranty, feel free to contact us when you need help.

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From the brand.

VOGSHOW TRAVEL BAGS

• Vogshow specializes in crafting travel bags that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also highly functional. Our range of products includes backpacks, duffel bags, and luggage sets, all designed to meet the diverse needs of travelers.
• Our designers and craftsmen personnel work cohesively to ensure that every product meets the highest standards of quality.

Vogshow Travel Bag

Carry on Backpack

Flight approved carry on backpack

Weekender Bag

Travel Backpack

Travel Duffle Bag

Daily Backpack

Product description.

VS VOGSHOW 80L Foldabe Dufflle Bag for Traveling

This is a collapsible convertible duffle bag and it is made of water resistance high quality polyester, its handles are secure and strong, zippers are very sturdy and smooth, giving you enough capacity to carry your items when you need them.

Multiple Sizes and Colours Available

Nice Lightweight and Easy to Fold Travel Bag

This duffel bag can be large or small, giving you enough capacity to carry your items when you need them. And when you don't need it, you can easily store it away without taking up space. It is great for traveling specially if you want to pack an extra bag just in case.

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Large capacity duffel bag.Great quality!A lot ofroom,pockets

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Vogshow Duffle Bag for Travel

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Foldable travel duffel bag

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Customer reviews.

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers like the sturdiness, ease of folding, weight and quality of the duffel bag. For example, they mention it's well made, easy to fold and lightweight. That said, some complain about the strap.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers like the size of the duffel bag. They say it's spacious, holds a lot more than expected, and has room for a number of clothing items. Some mention the 80 liter was the perfect size. They also love all the pockets to store things.

"...If you’re looking for a cheap, good sized bag , I’d say this one is decent enough quality to do the trick." Read more

"I needed a bag for a week out of town. The 80 liter was the perfect size . Sturdy material. I wish the outside pockets zippers though." Read more

"...I bought the blk & white stripe with tan trim. It's cute & big . I will be buying the smaller one as well." Read more

"...It has many pockets and can hold a lot of clothes (for a gym bag) or gifts (if you use it on return from a vacation)...." Read more

Customers like the sturdiness of the duffel bag. They say it's well-made, durable, and resistant. Some customers also mention that the material is nice and thick. Overall, most are satisfied with the quality and durability of the product.

"...’re looking for a cheap, good sized bag, I’d say this one is decent enough quality to do the trick." Read more

"...The 80 liter was the perfect size. Sturdy material . I wish the outside pockets zippers though." Read more

"This travel duffle opens up HUGE and seems well made . The fabric is wipeable pretty blue and white stripe...." Read more

"...Was unable to use it. Looks good but poorly fabricated . Sad.Seller offered to send me a replacement but still nothing months later." Read more

Customers find the weight of the duffel bag to be easy for travel. They say it's a lightweight bag that can be stored or transported much easier. Customers also appreciate that it'll be compact when not in use, making it perfect for a getaway or weekend trip.

"...It zips up into a little pouch shaped thing that can be stored or transported much easier than if it were as big as it is...." Read more

"...Maybe I'll get to use it for that purpose next year! At least it's very compact and I can store it away without it taking up much room!" Read more

"Well made! Good gym bag and also good to use for a weekend getaway !" Read more

"Nice and lightweight but I really wish the shoulder strap was included!" Read more

Customers like the appearance of the duffel bag. They say it's cute, light weight, durable, and has a clean look. Some mention that it has TONS of room and the suitcase handle sleeve is great. They also appreciate the side pouch where you can put your shoes.

"...I bought the blk & white stripe with tan trim. It's cute & big. I will be buying the smaller one as well." Read more

"...the foldable compact nature of it. This is an impressive bag in its design , capacity, features (built-in shoe bag)...." Read more

" Nice and lightweight but I really wish the shoulder strap was included!" Read more

"This bag is super big and fits a lot of stuff in it! and of course, it is cute !..." Read more

Customers appreciate the value of the duffel bag. They say it's worth the price, has good quality, and is a great product.

"...If you’re looking for a cheap , good sized bag, I’d say this one is decent enough quality to do the trick." Read more

"Well made! Good gym bag and also good to use for a weekend getaway!" Read more

"This bag is amazing for the price . I love that it can be so compact when not in use, and doesn’t take up much space in storage...." Read more

" Really good quality for the price ...." Read more

Customers find the duffel bag easy to fold. They say it folds into itself for easy storage, and is great for traveling. Some mention that the bag looks casual but elegant.

"...It’s very quick and easy to fold back down into a small pouch shape about the size of a piece of copy paper roughly 2 inches thick." Read more

"...the large size of it and 2. the foldable compact nature of it. This is an impressive bag in its design, capacity, features (built-in shoe bag)...." Read more

"...She loved the fact that the bag folds up into itself , so it doesn't take up a lot of room. Plenty of pockets for socks, underwear, toiletries." Read more

Customers like the quality of the duffel bag. They say it's amazing, perfect, and works well for longer trips. Some mention that the bottom of the bag has a small tear.

"...overall Greta purchase and vogshow is amazing . Haven't used for a trip so will update on durability once I do" Read more

"...bag for quick trips and this has been perfect and even works for longer trips ! Holds so much more than it looks!" Read more

" This bag is amazing . I overpacked for a week in Florida and shoved everything in this duffel...." Read more

"...expect it to be this big, I don’t like how it’s super wrinkly and looks cheap , I thought for the price it would’ve been a little nicer...." Read more

Customers are dissatisfied with the strap of the duffle bag. They mention that it tears easily, and the strap clip breaks or snaps. Some say that the bag rips on the first flight and that the shoulder strap is missing.

"Nice and lightweight but I really wish the shoulder strap was included !" Read more

"...They were the perfect size. However, last minute the strap broke . It was too late to do anything about it as everything was packed...." Read more

"...But it's not very sturdy. The shoulder strap broke the first time I used it." Read more

"Great size but came with broken piece of strap " Read more

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Backpackers Love the Osprey Waypoint 80L Trekking Pack: Review

Posted by Kelsey Davis | Sep 10, 2023 | Luggage , Reviews | 0 |

The Osprey Waypoint 80L Trekking Pack is going to change how you view backpacking.

Gone are the days of cumbersome, useless travel backpacks. Osprey's Waypoint 80L Trekking Pack addresses the chief considerations of hikers on the go. From a lack of organization to a lack of security, typical travel backpacks no longer stand a chance. Osprey's expertise in travel luggage truly radiates throughout its product. For this reason, you won't want to miss out on ordering your Osprey Waypoint pack before you set out on your next adventure. We promise you won't be disappointed!

A Little About the Osprey Brand

Mike Pfotenhauer founded the Osprey brand in 1974. Today, the company is headquartered in Cortez, Colorado, but has also expanded overseas to source the demand of textiles. With over forty years in the business, Osprey successfully appeals to trekkers and backpackers alike with their practical, functional, and quality products.

One such product is the brand's Waypoint 80L Trekking Pack. Hikers enjoy this pack's immense capacity and utilitarian layout. In order to fully appreciate all that the Osprey Waypoint pack has to offer, you will first need to forget everything you thought you knew about trekking packs. Read our review to find out how Osprey has cornered the market with the exceptional Waypoint 80L Trekking Pack!

Features and Benefits

On to the good stuff! In all actuality, the Osprey Waypoint is better than just “good.” The brand's many seemingly small details combine to create the greater picture. With a penchant for quality, Osprey has outdone itself in terms of amenities. Above all, the specifics that generally fall to the wayside by other manufacturers stand front and center in this product. We promise we won't tell your old trekking pack how much you love the Osprey Waypoint!

1. A thoughtful design

If we're being completely honest here, most travel backpacks are lacking in thought. Nonetheless, Osprey challenges the status quo by serving up a thoughtfully designed product with the consumer in mind. Many of your qualms about other packs are non-existent in the Osprey Waypoint. In fact, the brand overhauled the traditional to make a spectacular stride in the world of travel backpacks. Here are just a few of our favorite design aspects:

Welcome to Osprey Waypoint's humble abode. A large main compartment, smaller sleeping bag compartment, and many pockets compose the contents. Of course, the main compartment houses most of your belongings. However, the Osprey Waypoint allows trekkers to separate items like shoes or a sleeping bag in the small compartment located at the bottom of the pack. This independent section of the bag is easily accessible via a zipper on the front.

In addition to the major compartments, the Osprey Waypoint also features many pockets. For instance, a large side pocket parallels the main compartment. Additionally, the lid contains two mesh pockets, which are perfect for storing things like socks or a bikini. Finally, a small pocket on the top of the pack gives quick and easy access to frequently used items (think sunscreen and bug repellent).

The layout of the Osprey Waypoint is not only streamlined and functional, but also allows for a greater level or organization than most other trekking packs. More on that to come!

Total Opening Front Lid

Veteran travelers know that organization is key. For this reason, this is one area that truly sets the Osprey Waypoint 80L Trekking Pack apart from competitors. Whereas most packs open only at the top of the bag, the Waypoint comes complete with a lid that opens completely. One big zipper contains your belongings, and springs free to reveal the Mecca of travel pack organization.

Because the entire front lid can open, the Osprey Waypoint works as more than just a travel pack. The bag can easily be laid down like a suitcase and packed in sections. Seasoned trekkers know that this is golden for being able to quickly retrieve any necessary items. Moreover, when you don't have time to take the pack off and lay it down to open it, two zippered entrances on the side make it possible to grab and go.

Sturdy Sides

One of the most frustrating aspects of backpacking are the packs themselves. The average run-of-the-mill travel backpack folds over and in as soon as you begin to open it and rearrange items. However, this is not a problem with the Osprey Waypoint. To elaborate, the sides of the pack are padded with foam and feature straight jacket compression. Thus, your belongings stay in place. Even still, the most advantageous facet of having sturdy sides is that you aren't forced to unpack to be able to see what you've brought along.

Convertibility

At first glance, you probably would never guess that the Osprey Waypoint is a convertible. No, the top doesn't come off (although the entire front lid opens). However, the pack converts to a suitcase/duffel bag in a matter of seconds. If you have a flight to catch to your backpacking destination, the Osprey Waypoint quickly changes to meet your needs.

An extra lid tucked away in a small pocket at the bottom of the pack holds the straps should you decide you no longer want to carry the pack on your back. At this point, travelers carry the bag similar to a regular suitcase. When you reach your destination, remove the straps from the pocket and throw the bag on your back again.

Reviewers note that this feature is perfect for check-in at airports, on boats, and even the train or bus station. Most notably though, the convertible nature of the Osprey Waypoint minimizes wear and tear on the pack's straps.

Anatomy Conscious Customization

For the purpose of comfort, Osprey designed the Waypoint specifically by gender. While perusing Amazon, keep in mind that the pack comes in separate versions for males and females. This is due to a conscious effort to accommodate differences in anatomical design

Men and women assert that the gender modifications assist in making the pack contour to the body and evenly distribute weight. The major difference is the placement of the hip belt and harness. Additionally, backpackers choose between a small or medium torso length on both the male and female models. Osprey's carefully crafted design keeps everyone comfortable.

2. Detachable Day Pack

A major advantage of choosing the Osprey Waypoint is the detachable day pack. Now is probably the time we should clarify the 80L capacity. In reality, the larger, main bag has a 65 L capacity. The other 15 liters are accounted for in the form of a detachable day pack. Despite being a bit misleading, this setup actually plays to the pack's strength.

Travelers delight in the detachable day pack for several reasons. The smaller pack can be attached (or detached) from the larger bag using a zipper. Because of its smaller, more compact size, the day pack is the perfect solution for smaller hikes and sightseeing trips. Similarly, if you plan to wander the crowded streets of your destination, the day pack offers some relief for your back.

The detachable day pack is nearly as impressive as its larger counterpart. Upon peeking inside, you will notice that one main compartment comprises most of the bag. Towards the back, a smaller, padded laptop compartment allows techies to stay connected while traveling. Numerous pockets also exist, including one small pocket with zippers on each side of the bag, as well as a pocket on top. These are ideal for holding water bottles and small travel size items like tissues, respectively.

If you read on, we've included some of the day pack's other amenities in sections to come.

3. Peace of Mind

When traveling, the last think you want to worry about is safety and security. Unfortunately, it is an important and necessary consideration. While you are responsible for managing the safety of your person, Osprey looked out for travelers by incorporating some security measures into the Waypoint.

Lockable Zippers

Each of the Osprey Waypoint's zippers can be secured with various locking mechanisms. A small TSA-approved lock will do the trick though. The locking zippers allow travelers to focus on having the experience of a lifetime, rather than what could possibly go wrong or get stolen. Of course, we always advocate for wearing your neighborhood watch cap.

Hidden Doors

In conjunction with locking zippers, hidden compartments take the Osprey Waypoint to the next level. As noted above, we weren't finished telling you about the day pack's many qualities. One of the more clever is that the smaller pack can only be opened by accessing the door that sits against the wearer's back. Again, this makes the day pack suitable for excursions into urban areas that may be frequented by pick-pocketers. Osprey has touched upon common concerns of travelers, thereby nearly eliminating the fear that can often be associated with venturing into new territory. The Osprey Waypoint sends you on your way, protected and secure.

What Travelers are Saying about the Osprey Waypoint 80L Trekking Pack:

Truth be told, you will be hard-pressed to find more than a few minor drawbacks of Osprey's Waypoint 80L Trekking Pack. Nonetheless, we've read the reviews to find what travelers came to a consensus on.

• plus The straps are supportive and adjustable.
• plus ​Hidden compartments and locking zippers provide a sense of security.
• plusTuck-away straps quickly convert the bag into a “suitcase” and minimize wear and tear.
• plus​The fully opening front lid allows this pack to function more like a typical suitcase.
• plus​Gendered customization gives comfort.
• plusDetachable day pack is great for smaller excursions.
• plus​Several zippered pockets promote organization.
• close ​The pack does not come with a rain cover. These can be purchased separately from Osprey or any other retailer.
• ​Although better than other travel backpacks, organization can still be difficult. Packing cubes are highly recommended.
• close​The bag is too big to be carried on.
• closeNot compatible with hydration systems.

Although not perfect, no trekking pack is. Osprey comes pretty close though with its excellent product. Reviewers noted overwhelmingly positive features of the Waypoint, even though there are a few drawbacks. Even still, the disadvantages of this bag are not restricted to this brand only. Therefore, we think the pros far outweigh the cons. The Osprey Waypoint will not disappoint!

Alternative Travel Backpacks

If you want to do side by side comparisons to find your next trek pack, we've included some comparable options. Check out these bags to find the best fit for you.

Mountaintop 75L-80L Internal Frame Hiking Backpack

Mountaintop has crafted hiking, camping, and travel products for more than 30 years. Their  Mountaintop 75L-80L Internal Frame Hiking Backpack with Rain Cover has many great features. Zippered front access allows travelers to easily access belongings. A system of daisy chains makes it possible for carabiners to tote around anything from an ice axe to a tripod. Several compression straps allow for sleeping bags, tents, and other gear to be hung from the main pack. This durable nylon travel pack is also hydration system compatible.

​ WASING 85l/80L Internal Frame Hiking Backpack

Wasing's 85L/80L Internal Frame Backpack is perfect for climbers and mountaineers. Several compartments and zippered dividers provide the organization that trekkers want and need. Rip-stop polyester maintains the bag in good working order while also ensuring the pack is  water-resistant . The back panel is molded to allow for airflow, keeping you cool and dry. Wasing's product is a tough competitor.

TETON Sports Summit 1500 Ultralight Internal Frame Backpack

Teton's Sports Summit 1500 Backpack is plentiful in amenities where others are not. This pack is suitable for men, women, and even youth. 420D 2MM double line rip-stop fabric withstands the most treacherous of hikes. The low-profile design minimizes movement, providing climbers with stability. Extra padding lines the back and hip areas, contouring to the body and creating airflow. In addition, this choice is hydration system compatible and comes complete with a rain cover.

Backpacking will never be the same with the Osprey Waypoint 80L Trekking Pack.

Upgrade your backpacking adventures with the Osprey Waypoint travel backpack. With its multiple compartments, detachable day pack, and built-in security mechanisms, the Waypoint is way cool. Osprey designed this product with trekkers in mind, paying careful attention to ergonomics and anatomy. This quality product is perfect for you and your back!

Let us know what you think of the Osprey Waypoint 80L Trekking Pack in the comments!

Related Article: ​ 10 Best Travel Backpacks of 2018 for Your Next Adventure ​​​

About The Author

Kelsey Davis

On top of her day job, Kelsey is an academic, artist, avid stargazer, blogger, yoga enthusiast, and aspiring stay-at-home dog mom (a girl can dream, right?!). As a nomad, Kelsey enjoys spontaneous adventures and following wandering trails. Although she is up for anything, her favorite treks are local mountain and waterfall excursions with her boyfriend and puppy.

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• Best overall
• Best budget
• Most comfortable
• Best for short trips
• Best long trips
• Best duffle

What else we tested

• How we tested

Backpack glossary

The 6 best carry-on travel backpacks we tested for headache-free flights.

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Basically suitcases you can wear on your back, travel backpacks are the favorite luggage of many a digital nomad, urban explorer, work traveler — and me. When you don't want to pack a carry-on or deal with a rolling suitcase, a good travel backpack is a one-bag solution. With plenty of room to fit all the clothes you need for a short trip plus organizer pockets for tech, accessories, and travel documents, it's a great way to travel light.

To find the best travel backpack, I tested nine of the most popular models on the market for capacity, packability, logical pocket placement, and carry comfort. I wanted packs that felt manageable in size and bulk but still allowed me enough room for all my usual packing needs. I stuck mainly to packs that opened like a suitcase — clamshells, front-loaders, and back-loaders — but I left some room for wildcards. At the end of this guide, you'll find my full testing methodology and a glossary of useful vocabulary to know as you shop for your travel backpack. 

The best travel backpacks in 2024

Best overall: Tortuga Outbreaker -  See at Tortuga With a highly adjustable harness system, multiple utilitarian organizer pockets, and a four-to-five-day packing capacity, the Tortuga backpack is the only bag you'll need when you travel.

Best budget: VGCUB Large Travel Backpack - See at Amazon This travel backpack went viral on TikTok for being an affordable way to pack for weekend getways. It has a separate shoe compartment, USB charging port, and easily stows under an airplane seat.

Most comfortable to carry: Osprey Fairview/Farpoint - See at Osprey The Osprey Fairview/Farpoint is available in two fits with two torso sizes per fit. Each includes a wide hip belt and contoured back panel, making it an incredibly comfortable carry and a great choice for every body type.

Best for short trips: Incase EO -  See at Amazon The Incase EO is everything you'll need for short trips. Its main compartment expands to fit up to three days' worth of clothes, and it can easily transition into a day pack to wear while out and about.

Best for long trips: Cotopaxi Allpa -  See at Amazon Three spacious compartments in the Cotopaxi Allpa allow you to pack more than any 35L backpack we tried, and it still manages to stay a streamlined carry. But it does lack in organizational and tech pockets.

Best duffle-style travel backpack: Timbuk2 Impulse Travel Backpack Duffel - See at Timbuk2 With one large main compartment, the Timbuk2 Impulse Travel Backpack Duffel lets you pack a ton of stuff however you see fit, and it throws in some small side pockets and a shoe pocket to further up its utility.

Best travel backpack overall

Editor's note: The Outbreaker has since been phased out, but Tortuga's new-and-improved Travel Backpack Pro is a worthy upgrade with near-identical features. With a highly adjustable harness system, multiple utilitarian organizer pockets, and a four-to-five-day packing capacity, the Tortuga Outbreaker is the only bag you'll need when you travel.

Pros: Incredible organizer pockets, meets carry-on requirements, fits four-to-five days' worth of gear, padded and fleece-lined tech pocket, adjustable harness system, wide hip belt, two water bottle pockets

Cons: Harness system does not stow

The Tortuga Outbreaker is absolutely loaded with compartments, pockets, and hidden gems. Basically, you can put a lot of stuff in a lot of places, and that's why we love it. The front-loader bag opens to reveal a main compartment that fits four to five days of clothes and two large mesh compartments that I used to pack small items like socks and underwear.

Inside the front panel is a deep organizer pocket with wallet-like divisions for cards and pens, and a compartment perfect for travel documents. On the exterior you'll find a water bottle pocket on each side of the pack — a rarity for travel backpacks.

The tech pocket is one of the most impressive at utilizing space. It zips open and lays flat for easy screening, and features two well-padded fleece-lined pockets for tablets or laptops, along with space for storing all your chargers and accessories.

The suspension system is also highly adjustable. You can move the entire thing, shoulder straps and all, up or down the pack to get the perfect fit for a variety of torso heights. The hip belt is one of the widest I tested and it does a fantastic job of redistributing weight off your shoulders — though, admittedly, it's a little dorky looking. Load lifters on the shoulder straps ensure the bag won't sag off your shoulders, creating pressure points.

One downside to this pack is that the harness system isn't stowable, so you may find things get caught as you try to shove it in the overhead. 

Best budget travel backpack

Business Insider newsletter editor Jordan Parker Erb uses this internet-famous travel backpack for weekend trips. At less than $40 on Amazon , she calls it "the perfect carry-on bag."

Pros:  Affordable, handy shoe compartment, fits under airplane seats

Cons: Too small for international trips, narrow water bottle pocket

"I used the bag for several road trips over the summer when I didn't have much to pack. The bag can fit a pair of shoes and two outfits without packing cubes , just enough for a weekend trip. Using packing cubes, you can squeeze in a few more outfits," says Parker Erb. "Coming in at about 12 inches wide and 17 inches long, the bag can fit under airplane seats without a problem," she writes in her full review of the TikTok viral Amazon backpack . "Unlike a regular backpack, this Amazon bag unzips fully — like a suitcase — making it easier to find and remove items without digging through the entire bag. With plenty of space for clothes and compartments for shoes and other items, the bag is the perfect carry-on for a weekend escape — but I wouldn't rely on it for long trips."

Most comfortable travel backpack

The Osprey Fairview / Farpoint is available in two fits with two torso sizes each. All include a wide hip belt and contoured back panel, making for an incredibly comfortable carry and a great choice for every body type.

Pros: Available in multiple styles for a great fit; wide hip belt, load lifters, and a contoured frame sheet make it very comfortable to carry; compressor straps hide external zippers; entire harness system hides away; carry-on compliant on most airlines; lifetime repair/replace warranty

Cons: Not the most fashionable pack, tech pocket at the front is a bit unusual

Osprey offers two different fits in its Fairview / Farpoint line: it considers the Fairview to be the women's fit and the Farpoint to be the men's fit, but each pack can be worn regardless of gender and may better be assessed based on your body type. Within each fit, there are also two different sizes — measure your torso from the base of your neck to the top of your hips to determine what size will suit you best. 

The frame sheet in the back panel is also contoured to help the back hug your lower back and shift the weight of the load away from your shoulders. The hip belt is also wider than the other packs I tested which also makes a difference in redistributing weight.

The harness system is also ergonomically designed and it's one of the few packs on our list with load lifters to keep the pack from sagging away from your shoulders. The entire harness system stows away thanks to a hidden flap that rolls up and zips over the entire thing.

The pack itself is a front-loader with one large main packing compartment with internal compressor straps. A combination tech and organizer pocket sits in front of that. It's the only pack we tried where the tech pocket is in the front, which provides less security, but the external compressor straps affix in such a way that completely hides the zippers so no one can get to them without some serious effort. 

Best travel backpack for short trips

The Incase EO is everything you'll need for short trips. Its main compartment expands to fit up to three days' worth of clothes, and it can easily transition into a day pack to wear while out and about.

Pros:  Expands to fit more clothes and contracts to be used as a day pack, lay-flat fleece-lined laptop pocket, organizer pocket has depth for additional storage, carry-on friendly

Cons: Only fits one to three days' worth of stuff, organizer pouches don't zip closed, no hip belt, feels heavy to carry

The Incase EO is the smallest bag on our list by volume, maxing out at 25 liters, but it fits much more than it lets on. It's definitely an overnighter — maybe a weekender if you push it — but it's a well organized little pack that's easily a one-bag solution for light packers and quick trips. It's also unique among our selections in that it's compressible and can transform into a day pack.

The main compartment opens front-loader-style, and while it'll fit a couple outfits, you'll also want to use the space in the organizer pocket to stash some additional clothes. The pouches within the organizer pocket are open at the top, so anything you put in them will simply drop in. I do wish they had zipper closures for added security.

The tech pocket comprises the entire back panel and fully unzips to lie flat for TSA. The laptop pocket is lined with microfleece for extra protection and fits up to a 16-inch laptop. Opposite that is a pouch to slide chargers and other accessories into, though I wish it had a zipper closure and some more pockets to better utilize that space.

Because this pack is smaller, it doesn't come with a hip belt or any way to attach one, and ends up feeling pretty heavy when packed to capacity. But the shoulder straps are well-padded with air mesh, and the sternum strap has some flex to it so it doesn't cut into you while you walk.

Best travel backpack for long trips

Three spacious compartments in the Cotopaxi Allpa  allow you to pack more than any 35L backpack we tried, and it still manages to stay a streamlined carry. But it does lack in organizational and tech pockets.

Pros:  Easily fits five-plus days' worth of gear, has room for both a 15-inch laptop and a tablet, intuitive compartment placement, meets most airline carry-on requirements, comes with a rain cover

Cons:  Lacks meaningful organizer pockets, no space for travel documents, tech pocket lacks space for accessories, shoulder straps are not very adjustable, hip belt may hit too high for those with longer torsos

The Cotopaxi Allpa structures 35 liters in such a way that lets you pack a ridiculous amount of stuff. I fit my entire five-day packing list including sneakers, a sweatshirt, and all my outfits. I didn't have to compromise or pack "creatively" or stick socks into pockets where socks didn't belong.

The clamshell design allows the pack to open like a book. On the right, you'll find an undivided expansive compartment. On the left, you'll find two smaller mesh pockets on the top half and a big compartment on the bottom. There's also a third compartment of the same size that can be accessed externally at the top of the pack.

Accessed by a zipper on the side of the back panel, the tech pocket has a velcro tablet pocket and enough room for a 15-inch laptop, but it lacks accessory pockets. Directly opposite that zipper is a quick-access zipper that lets you reach into the main compartment without unzipping the whole thing. 

The harness system is basic, but the contoured shoulder straps are comfortable, and the removable hip belt is streamlined and effectively distributed load weight. The sternum strap is vertically adjustable so you can get the right fit. And the entire thing is stowable within the back panel. The pack also meets all but the strictest airline carry-on requirements.

Best duffle-style travel backpack

With one large main compartment, the Timbuk2 Impulse Travel Backpack Duffel lets you pack a ton of stuff however you see fit, and it throws in some small side pockets and a shoe pocket to further up its utility.

Pros: Large capacity with duffle-style design, both internal and external compression straps, carry-on friendly on many airlines, fits 17-inch laptop, rip-stop fabric

Cons:  Tech pocket doesn't open flat, overstuffing could lead to lack of carry-on compliance, shoulder straps may be uncomfortable for those with narrow shoulders, lack of organizer pockets, sticky zippers

The Timbuk2 Impulse is the largest backpack on our list by volume at 45 liters, and thanks to its duffle-style design, you really get to utilize all that packing space. Rather than being broken up into smaller compartments, a U-shaped zipper flap reveals one large one that you can pack however you like. 

It also offers a few friendly details that set it apart from your typical duffle. On either side of the pack — or the top and bottom if you're wearing it — are separate zippered compartments. On the bottom, you'll find a water-resistant compartment for shoes or laundry, and on top is a similarly-sized more flexible compartment.

The tech pocket leaves something to be desired. It's accessed by a zipper on the side of the back panel, and though it's spacious enough to fit up to a 17-inch laptop, there are no pockets for accessories, and it doesn't open to lay flat. There's a distinct lack of organizational pockets on this pack and nowhere intuitive to store travel documents, but that's what you get with a duffle-style bag.

I found the shoulder straps to be a bit wide for my narrow shoulders, but someone broader than me shouldn't have an issue. The sternum strap is vertically adjustable and the hip belt helps disperse the load weight quite well. It felt lighter than some of the smaller-capacity bags I tested, even when fully packed. The entire harness system can be stowed in the back panel of the pack. 

Tortuga Setout ($119) : The Tortuga Setout is the little sibling of our top pick, the Tortuga Outbreaker . Despite also being a 35L pack, I was able to fit about a day's less gear than the Outbreaker. The Setout's tech pocket is less impressive and it has fewer organizational pockets than the Outbreaker. Its suspension system is also less adjustable, so you make have to live with a slightly less comfortable fit. The distinct advantage, though, is that it's cheaper. You'll make some compromises to save a few bucks, but they're minor compromises at best. This is still a wonderful pack.

Patagonia Black Hole Duffel ($129) : Patagonia's reputation speaks for itself, and this duffel backpack is built to last. Insider's VP of Commerce, Breton Fischetti, has had his for over a decade, and it's still in perfect condition. But the lack of tech pocket, the barebones suspension system, and the fact that it doesn't meet airline carry-on requirements were all strikes against it.

How we test travel backpacks

In order to test travel backpacks, we first researched the major players in the market, searching for large-capacity, front-panel, back-panel, or clamshell backpacks that fully unzipped and opened flat like suitcases. From there, we received testing samples of our top nine choices.

Packing and capacity:  I tried to test backpacks with similar capacities, and most of them fell within the 35L to 40L range. A backpack with a 35L capacity was not disadvantaged for being unable to hold as much as a 40L-capacity backpack, but the configuration of pockets, compartments, and packing spaces played a key part in how easily each bag packs and how much it can hold.

I made a packing list for myself for the equivalent of a five-day trip: clothing, shoes, tech, and toiletries. I assessed how well I could fit all my essentials into the pack and how logically the compartments were placed. If I couldn't fit my full five-day haul into the pack, I noted how many days' worth of gear at which the pack maxed out. 

Carry-on capabilities:  Many of these backpacks can quickly exceed airline carry-on size requirements, especially if you overpack them in a way that distorts their shape. Our top five picks all meet most airline carry-on requirements when fully packed, though there's no guarantee you'll get away with overstuffing them.

Carry comfort : Because I tested these travel backpacks amidst the pandemic, I wasn't doing much actual traveling, so I did my best to simulate a travel experience. I fully packed each suitcase as outlined above, strapped the backpack onto my back, and walked around the block — half a mile — and up and down the stairs in my apartment building to test how comfortable the packs were to carry.

Durability:  To test durability, I pushed each fully packed backpack (sans my laptop) down a flight of stairs three times — forwards, backwards, and sideways. I noted any scuffs, scratches, tears, or broken hardware. I also tugged on the zippers in every direction to test their strength and how well they could withstand stress.

Long-term testing : Though our initial testing period lasted roughly four months, we acknowledge that other issues could crop up with long-term use. We are continuing to test each of our top picks and we will update this guide with any issues we encounter.

Unlike the Jansport you wore in middle school , travel backpacks have a lot of component parts, many of which are designed to make the backpack more comfortable to carry and less strenuous to your back. But if you don't know the vocabulary, you may have a tough time understanding what you're buying. Here are a few must-know vocab words to give you a better understanding of backpack anatomy.

L:  Backpack capacity is often expressed in liters, so if you see a backpack advertised as 35L, that means its total capacity is approximately 35 liters in volume. While the liter measurement can give you a general idea of how much stuff your backpack will hold, the way your pack's pockets and compartments are structured ultimately play a huge role in how much you'll be able to fit. We tested 35L backpacks that maxed out at three days' worth of stuff and some that could easily hold five or more days' worth.

Clamshell: A clamshell backpack features a zipper on three sides with the fourth side acting as a hinge. Clamshell packs open flat like a suitcase and have two equal compartments.

Front-loading: A front-loading backpack opens similarly to a clamshell pack, but instead of the zipper being located in the middle to create two equal compartments, it's located at the front to create one large packing space.

Rear-loading: A rear-loading backpack is exactly the same as a front-loading backpack, except the zipper is located at the back panel instead of the front panel.

Top-loading: Your middle school Jansport was a top-loading backpack. Instead of opening fully flat, you load your items in from the top. We've found that top-loaders provide a worse experience on a large scale than clamshells or front/back-loaders, so we've chosen not to include them in this guide.

Shoulder straps: These are simply the straps that go over your shoulders with which you carry your backpack. They are, in essence, what make a backpack a backpack.

Hip belt: Positioned at the bottom of the pack, a hip belt wraps around your waist, just above your hips. A properly positioned hip belt helps shift the weight away from your shoulders making larger loads easier to carry.

Sternum strap: A sternum strap crosses your chest and connects one shoulder strap to the other. It should sit just below your collarbone, and like the hip belt, it aids in weight distribution.

Frame sheet: A frame sheet is sewn into the back panel of a backpack and helps the backpack maintain its shape once fully loaded. It may be contoured or padded for extra comfort and can also help with weight distribution.

Load lifters: Load lifter straps help pull the top of your backpack closer to your shoulders. Not every pack has them, but if yours does, you'll find them coming over the top of the shoulder straps. Packs without them tend to fall away from your shoulders which adds strain.

Suspension/harness system: Every entry above from shoulder straps to load lifters is part of your backpack's suspension or harness system. It's everything that contributes to how you carry your backpack and how the load's weight is distributed across your body.

Compression straps: Compression straps can be located externally to help cinch down a packed backpack to make it smaller, or internally to help keep clothes in place if you haven't packed your backpack to capacity.

You can purchase logo and accolade licensing to this story here . Disclosure: Written and researched by the Insider Reviews team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our partners. We may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at [email protected] .

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Protect Your Trip »

The 13 best carry-on backpacks of 2024, tested & reviewed.

Enjoy hands-free travel with a versatile carry-on backpack.

The Best Carry-on Backpacks

Leilani Osmundson | U.S. News

Not sure whether to take a rolling suitcase or a travel backpack on the plane? Both types of carry-on luggage certainly have their merits, but if you like keeping your arms and hands free when traveling, a backpack is the right choice for you. Furthermore, compared to a hard-sided suitcase , it's easier to squeeze a malleable backpack into an overhead bin or under the seat. And if your vacation is focused on adventure travel, you might value a durable pack on your back over wheels on the ground.

U.S. News compiled this list from extensive research and testing along with consumer reviews. Whatever your reason for choosing a backpack, there are plenty on the market to satisfy your needs. Read on for the best carry-on travel backpacks.

Best Overall: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack

• Jump to features and expert insights ↓

Best Budget: ZOMAKE Ultra Lightweight Hiking Backpack 20L

Best lightweight: mz wallace metro utility backpack.

• Best for Business Travel (tie): Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Backpack – Large
• Best for Business Travel (tie): Aer Travel Pack 3

Best for International Travel: Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Pack

Best for weekend getaways: solo grand travel tsa backpack, best for women: tumi voyageur celina backpack, best for men: peak design travel backpack 45l, best for adventure travel: kelty redwing 36, best with wheels: samsonite tectonic nutech wheeled backpack, best organization: augustnoa classic noa, best leather: monos metro backpack in vegan leather.

(Note: Prices and availability were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to demand and other factors. Dimensions of backpacks are height by width by depth.)

Price: $200 or less

When it comes to bag travel, the Cotopaxi Allpa packs a serious punch. The carry-on backpack is available in three sizes – 42L, 35L and 28L – and a variety of colors, including the vibrant multicolor Del Día style. The 35L size not only fits everything you need for your next getaway, but it's also TSA-compliant as a carry-on item . On the outside, the Allpa features a removable waist belt, a padded laptop sleeve on the side, anti-theft zippers, carabiner lash loops for extra gear, a sternum strap and a front zippered pocket. The backpack straps can be tucked away if you're looking to save more room in the overhead bin or you want to carry the bag via its grab handles.

The bag opens suitcase-style; inside, you'll find one large zippered mesh compartment on the right and a subdivided zippered mesh compartment on the left, providing ample space for all your clothes, shoes and accessories. What's more, the bag comes with a rain cover (though it's already water-resistant).

What our editors say:

I've taken my Cotopaxi Allpa on countless adventures, from a road trip around Iceland to camping all over Colorado. It fits more than expected, is comfortable to wear (especially if using the waist belt) and is extremely durable. I just wish the 35L had an exterior water bottle pocket like the 42L does! – Leilani Osmundson, Senior Digital Producer

Erin Evans | U.S. News

Price: $15.99 or less

This backpack has three excellent things going for it: It's affordable, lightweight and durable. It's a great option for a weekend getaway bag and is an excellent little backpack to have on hand for tours and day trips once you make it to your destination. If you're planning to hike or kayak on your next getaway, you'll definitely want to have the ZOMAKE Ultra Lightweight Backpack in your back pocket – literally. It can be folded into a compact pouch and tucked away in a larger carry-on bag if you're planning to only use it as a daypack.

The lightweight travel bag is both tear- and water-resistant. With all of its pockets – including one on each side for water bottles or umbrellas – you'll be able to fit everything you need for an adventure-filled trip.

It can fit enough for a weekend trip, plus it's super useful for hiking, boat excursions and more once you're in your destination because it's so light and water-resistant. I've used it for years and it has held up incredibly well; it comes in so many fun colors, too. I love it so much, I bought two so my husband has one he can use as well. – Erin Evans, Managing Editor

Rachael Hood | U.S. News

Price: $345 or less

Constructed with recycled bluesign-approved quilted nylon, this chic bag is packed with pockets and organizational details. The interior has a padded 15-inch laptop sleeve, a large zip pocket with two slip pockets, two water bottle pockets and two removable pouches. On the front of the bag there's a deep phone pocket and multiple zippered pockets of various sizes, including a small one that's ideal for a boarding pass, earbuds or wipes.

A water bottle pocket sits on each side of the bag, and the back of the bag has a luggage trolley sleeve that can be zipped shut on the bottom to be a pocket when not attached to your suitcase. This backpack has a top-zip design, and can be carried by the two top handles or the adjustable padded backpack straps.

This bag has completely changed my mind about backpacks. It's extremely spacious and works so well for my laptop, change of clothes, toiletry bag and other carry-on essentials. I love all of the pockets and that I can carry this like a north-south tote in addition to using the trolley sleeve or backpack straps. But what truly sets this apart is the beautiful fabrication that is so soft and the luxurious Italian leather details. – Rachael Hood, Senior Editor

Best for Business Travel: Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Backpack and Aer Travel Pack 3 (tie)

Dagne dover dakota neoprene backpack – large.

Catriona Kendall | U.S. News

Price: $215 or less

This sleek, professional backpack by Dagne Dover is perfect for professional and casual settings alike, with a vast array of organizational features and a 20-liter capacity for the large size. On the outside, you'll find a zippered padded pocket for up to 16-inch laptops and a slip pocket for your phone, while an interior sleeve can fit a tablet or a second laptop, allowing you to travel with multiple devices. The inside of the bag has two mesh slip pockets and a zip-top pouch attached with a leash, as well as three zippered pockets in the front panel.

To help you stay even more organized, the exterior also features a zippered front pocket with pen loops and a key clip; two zippered side pockets; two slip side pockets; and straps to secure a small bottle. The water-resistant bag comes with adjustable shoulder straps, a luggage sleeve and a separate shoe bag.

I adore bringing this bag to work and using it as a personal item on flights. I don't think I've ever used a backpack with better organization than this one – there's a dedicated place for every little thing, from keys to pens to my devices. I also love that the neoprene material is extremely lightweight and water-resistant. – Catriona Kendall, Editor

Aer Travel Pack 3

Price: $249 or less

With a pocket for everything, the clamshell-style Aer Travel Pack 3 keeps you organized to the max on business trips. Keep your laptop (up to 16 inches) safe in the padded, zippered laptop sleeve, and stow your passport in the quick-access side pocket. The front compartment features several sizes of pockets perfect for chargers, notepads, pens and more. Along with the lay-flat main compartment for clothes, there's also an interior pocket for small accessories as well as a hidden luggage tracker pocket.

Designed for one-bag travel, the durable Aer Travel Pack 3 also features a water-resistant nylon exterior along with load lifters for a more comfortable fit. You can purchase a hip belt separately.

The Aer Travel Pack 3 has one of the sleekest designs when it comes to carry-on backpacks. I also appreciate all the pockets: The sizable laptop pocket is perfect for someone like me who uses a huge laptop; the eight pockets in just the front compartment are so handy for everything you could need while traveling; and the bag even comes with a zippered water bottle pocket on the side. – Leilani Osmundson

Price: $185 or less

The Osprey Farpoint is truly an all-in-one travel pack that combines quality with minimal weight. The clamshell-style carry-on bag features a substantial main compartment across from a large mesh pocket. There's an easy-to-access zippered laptop sleeve on the side for devices up to 16 inches.

For extra support and comfort, the backpack includes a sternum strap, back panel, harness and hip belt; the latter three can be zipped up for fully streamlined travel, and compression straps help slim the bag down even more. The Osprey Farpoint 40 meets most domestic carry-on size requirements and is compatible with the Farpoint/Fairview Travel Daypack , which can be brought onto the plane as a personal item .

This is one of my favorite backpacks. I love how the back can be zipped up so the bag more resembles a duffel; this makes it easy to stow away without having to deal with a lot of straps. Additionally, the interior compression straps can really help cinch down belongings, especially if you're using packing cubes . – Leilani Osmundson

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Amanda Norcross | U.S. News

Price: $117.99 or less

Perfect for weekend getaways , the Solo Grand TSA Travel Backpack opens like a regular suitcase. In the main compartment, you can secure several outfits with compression straps and store accessories and toiletries in two zippered mesh pockets. In the back, a padded compartment protects laptops up to 17.3 inches in size, and on the front there are a variety of pockets – even pockets within pockets – for your phone and other essentials. This backpack is also equipped with two side mesh pockets, a trolley sleeve, and side and top carry handles.

This backpack is flawless. It's big without the bulk and has plenty of pockets, which not only makes it ideal for weekend getaways but also prevents me from having to awkwardly rummage through my bag when I need something on the plane. – Amanda Norcross, Senior Content & SEO Strategist

Price: $475 or less

This backpack blends function and fashion with a compact design. On the front of the bag are two zip compartments and a U-zip pocket with a card slot, a slip pocket and a pen holder. The interior of the bag is divided into two separate compartments: one zippered section with a padded laptop compartment (holds up to a 15-inch PC or 16-inch MacBook), and another large compartment with a zippered pocket and two slip pockets (ideal for glasses or charging cords).

There is also a zippered compartment on each side of the bag, one of which has a water-resistant lining for a water bottle. On the back of the bag you'll find a hidden phone compartment and a trolley sleeve to attach to a roller bag.

This style oozes sophistication, especially the black with the gold hardware. From its sleek material to its many pockets and details, this backpack looks and feels like a chic handbag that can go from the office to a beach resort with ease. I especially like that there are two places you can access the front compartment of the bag, and I like that the laptop section is separate from the rest of the backpack so it's easier to take out my computer and go through airport security (which makes me less likely to drop something from inside my bag). – Rachael Hood

Price: $299.95 or less

The Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is a solid, rugged choice that will last. The nylon canvas shell of the backpack is weatherproof and water-resistant, with a waterproof bottom liner as well. You can unzip the back panel to access the main packing compartment, which is also accessible via zippers along each side of the bag and can be divided in two by a mesh sleeve. To keep you organized, this backpack has quick-access pockets for small items like passports and glasses, plus expandable side pockets for water bottles, tripods or umbrellas.

The bag meets carry-on size requirements but can expand by 1.5 inches if you need the extra room; the shoulder straps and hip belt tuck away if you plan to check it instead. If you prefer a smaller bag, the Peak Design Travel Backpack also comes in a 30-liter size .

If you only want to bring one bag on a short trip, you can't go wrong with this backpack. It's sturdy, reliable and able to fit a ton while still being carry-on-sized. It served me well on a recent trip to New Zealand, and I'd definitely recommend it for travelers who like hands-free luggage. – Catriona Kendall

Price: $134.95 or less

If you'll be adventuring in the great outdoors for your next trip, consider purchasing the Kelty Redwing 36 backpack. You'll find two exterior water bottle pockets as well as a hydration-friendly inner pocket (for storing a water bladder). Tool loops can hold hiking poles, fishing poles, ice axes or other adventure gear. Organization is made easy with plenty of zippered pockets, including one on each side of the bag, a large one on the front and one on top that's perfect for storing travel documents such as a passport. Plus, a ventilated back panel helps keep you cool when you're hurrying through airports or hiking up a mountain.

If you need a bigger backpack, the Kelty Redwing 50 Tactical is a great checked bag option and has many of the same features as the Redwing 36 along with more straps and pockets.

The Kelty Redwing 36 can be cinched down quite a bit for truly streamlined travel and to better meet carry-on size guidelines. However, I'll caution that the waist belt is difficult to remove. – Leilani Osmundson

Price: $159.99 or less

If you want the flexibility to either carry or wheel your luggage, a wheeled backpack style may work best for you. The Samsonite Tectonic NuTech Wheeled Backpack transforms from a rolling bag into a backpack by just tucking in the handle, pulling out the stowed straps and using the wheel cover. The durable polyester material is water-repellent and has red accents.

There are three sections to this bag: a main compartment with space to pack for a weekend trip, a dedicated sleeve for both a laptop up to 15.6 inches and a tablet up to 11 inches, and a front pocket equipped with various organizational features. There are various small pockets, pen sleeves, card slots and a key leash within. You can tuck a water bottle and umbrella into the exterior pockets on either side of the bag. Just keep in mind that this bag may slightly exceed carry-on size restrictions on some airlines with stricter rules.

I expected a wheeled backpack to be uncomfortable to carry, but this convertible bag has proved surprisingly convenient. I like having both the rolling and hands-free options for different circumstances, and it has ample packing space. – Catriona Kendall

Price: $148 or less

This sustainable water-resistant backpack is constructed with 100% recycled materials and has 10 pockets to organize everything. The spacious interior compartment has a 17-inch padded laptop sleeve and a tablet sleeve with a strap to secure it in place, as well as an interior mesh pocket for small items or charging cords and a removable shoe bag.

On the exterior, the front pocket has a built-in mesh organizer for pens, and there are mesh water bottle holders on each side of the backpack. The back of the bag has two adjustable padded straps, each with a built-in zippered compartment ideal for keys, ID or tickets. A hidden zip pocket makes for a secure space for a wallet or passport, and the trolley sleeve provides added versatility.

This backpack is great for travel or everyday use. I especially appreciate the comfortable backpack straps with the small zip pockets. They are easy to reach and perfect for small items like lip gloss, cash or a transit card. Durably constructed, the water-resistant exterior performs well in any weather, and I love that there's a padded space for both my laptop and iPad. – Rachael Hood

Price: $230 or less

For an upscale backpack that can be dressed up or down, this Monos style is an ideal choice. Constructed with sustainable vegan leather (there's also a nylon version with vegan leather accents), this structured style is both water- and scratch-resistant. The 15-inch laptop sleeve is separate from the main packing compartment so you can access your device easily. The brand's QuickSnap Modular Kit System means you'll have a detachable Metro Kit for small items that attaches magnetically to the front of the bag; this kit is interchangeable between Metro bags and can be swapped out for a different kit or removed entirely, depending on your needs.

The backpack's main compartment is designed for maximum functionality with a felt-lined document sleeve, a large zippered pocket, two slip pockets, and a waterproof zippered privacy compartment for a rain jacket or gym clothes. On the back, you can make use of a hidden slip pocket for your phone, a trolley sleeve and adjustable padded straps. There's also two top carry handles if you'd prefer to carry this backpack like a tote.

I really like the elevated styling and durability of this vegan leather bag. But what sets it apart is the separate laptop compartment (I don't like to have to open my entire bag to get out my laptop while on the go), and the modular Metro Kit system that can be removed when it's not needed. It's full of value-added design elements, and the material looks classic and appropriate with any attire. – Rachael Hood

Frequently Asked Questions

Depending on its size, a backpack is considered a carry-on item. To be able to put it in the overhead bin, you generally don't want it to exceed 22 x 14 x 9 inches, but that sizing varies by airline, and since backpacks are soft-sided, the dimensions can be somewhat malleable. If it fits under the seat in front of you on the plane ( check your airline's specific size requirements ), it is typically considered a personal item. If the backpack can fit under the seat, then you can often bring it in addition to a larger carry-on bag (based on your airline ticket type and inclusions).

For a backpack to be a carry-on for most domestic airlines, it should not exceed 22 x 14 x 9 inches (or should be able to be squished to approximately those dimensions). To be considered a personal item, it must fit under the seat in front of you. Underseat size and space varies by airline and airplane type, so it's best to check with your airline's size restrictions.

How We Tested

From the comfort of the straps to the capacity of each bag, our team tested more than 20 carry-on backpacks from a variety of brands at a range of price points. We tested to see how the overall structure of the bag works for travel needs, along with the durability and details that make a difference. After taking these backpacks on a variety of adventures, we've selected these carry-on backpacks as the best for 2024.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Luggage Sets
• The Best Rolling Duffel Bags
• The Best Toiletry Bags
• The Best Fanny Packs
• The Best Travel Insurance

Vacation Ideas for Every Traveler

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Macpac Global 80L Travel Bag

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Colour selected: Beetle

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Product Description

Design features.

• Main and secondary fabrics are bluesign® approved
• Lightweight aluminium frame with wheel base
• Large main compartment internal pockets and compression straps
• Zip away shoulder straps — zips are lockable
• External compression straps
• Telescopic handle and two grab handles (top and side)
• External zip pocket
• Address label with pocket
• Lockable zips
• Lining contains recycled content

Product Specifications

60 day returns.

If you're not completely satisfied, you are welcome to exchange your purchase* with the original receipt for a full refund, store credit, or an alternative product, within 60 days. The returned product must be unused, and in the original packaging with all tags still intact. Footwear should be tested indoors and returned in original packaging. Shoe boxes must be free of tape, writing, and stickers; use a postage bag for added protection.

*Excludes next-to-skin swimwear, masks, underwear, food, gas canisters, and gift vouchers.

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We trust our gear completely. If a product fails due to a major manufacturing fault or material defect, you can ask for a replacement, refund, or we’ll repair it free of charge. For non-Macpac branded products, we’ll always work with you to determine whether a repair, replacement or refund is appropriate.

Our commitment to quality

Hiking Gear and Adventures

Best Expedition Backpacks of 2024 – 70+ liters

Gregory Baltoro 75

Here we selected and reviewed the best expedition backpacks with a capacity of 70 liters or more. Such backpacks offer enough storage space for expeditions lasting more than five days. However, be aware that the required capacity of a backpack greatly depends on the equipment and supplies that you need/want to carry with you. For example, winter trips require additional equipment such as crampons, gaiters, insulated clothing etc. and thus also a bigger backpack. Nevertheless, a backpack should be sufficiently packed/filled to remain stable on your back and therefore the backpacks listed here might be too big for shorter trips. To learn more about how to properly pack a backpack for stability and comfort check out our article  How to pack a backpack . The backpacks in this review are, however, perfect for extended trips of five days or more (backpacking, trekking, expeditions etc.) which require a lot of supplies ( water ,  food  etc.) and equipment ( sleeping equipment , cooking equipment etc.). Due to their storage capacity and pockets, they are also perfect for travelling.

For in-depth information about how to choose the right backpack for your needs check out our Backpacks Guide .

See Best Products Read Buying Guide

Updated Content

We regularly update our reviews and selections to always recommend you the best products on the market.

Expert Selections

We only list top-tier products. Read how our selections of best hiking products differ from others here .

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1. Our Expedition Backpack Picks

Best expedition backpacks

• Osprey Aether Plus 70
• Deuter AirContact Pro 70+15

Mountain Hardwear AMG 75

Kelty Coyote 85

2. Comparison of Expedition Backpacks

3. the selection.

Osprey Aether 70 Plus

1. Osprey Aether Plus 70

Suitable for:

• Mountaineering
• Expeditions
• Backpacking

The Osprey Aether Plus 70 backpack is perfect for expeditions because it provides great functionality while it is super light (it weighs merely 5 lbs. 9 oz.). The body of the backpack is made of durable nylon while the shoulder straps and the hip belt are made of thick foam for comfortable carrying. Due to the AirScape suspension, the backpack is perfect for carrying heavy loads. The AirScape suspension efficiently transfers the weight from the shoulders to the hips via the custom fit hip belt. The padding on the hip belt can be shortened or extended for perfect fit. The backpanel is covered with a suspended mesh fabric for good breathability and comfort. The Osprey Aether Plus 70 features a spacious main compartment, multiple lid pockets, two side pockets, two hip belt pockets, a front stash pocket and an internal sleeve for hydration bladder. The main compartment can be accessed from the top as well as through the zipper that goes all around the front side of the backpack. Therefore, you can easily get things out of the main compartment even when the backpack is fully loaded. The lid can be removed and doubles as a day pack which comes in handy on long hikes – you can, for example, leave the backpack in the camp and go for a day hike carrying only the lightweight daypack. When the lid is removed the top of the backpack can be protected with the FlapJacket top cover (a piece of fabric that goes over the top of the backpack). Therefore, you can also leave the lid at home if you don’t need the extra storage space. The Osprey Aether Plus 70 also features an integrated rain cover, side compression straps, front compression straps, trekking poles attachment system and ice axe loops.

Women's Version: Available - Osprey Ariel Plus 70

Note: Women's version might slightly differ from the men's version.

• Main compartment access
• Lid doubles as a daypack
• IsoForm hip belt
• Back system
• Durable materials and construction
• Integrated rain cover for protection in wet conditions
• Relatively high price point
• Some users may find it a bit heavy for ultralight backpacking

Where to buy?

Osprey Aether Plus 70L Men's Backpacking Backpack, Black, L/XL

Also available at:

Osprey | Moosejaw

2. Gregory Baltoro 75

The Gregory Baltoro 75 is another top-quality expedition backpack. It is slightly bigger than the Osprey Aether 70 mentioned above but even lighter. The backpack features the advanced A3 (Automatic Angle Adjust) back system which adapts to your body and maintains your center of gravity. Due to the A3 back system, the backpack also efficiently transfers the weight from the shoulders to the hips via the hip belt. It uses an ergonomically shaped hip belt which rotates for better fit (a so-called pivoting hip belt). The backpanel is padded and has a ventilation channel in the middle in order to provide good breathability. A plate made of EVA foam is inserted under the backpanel for cushioning but it can be removed in case that it’s not required. The backpack has a main compartment, one internal lid pocket, two external lid pockets, two large side zippered pockets, a large front zippered pocket, two hip belt pockets and a water bottle pocket on the side. Similar to the Osprey backpack mentioned above, the main compartment of the Baltoro backpack can be accessed from the top, bottom and front. The right hip belt pocket is waterproof and thus perfect for storing a GPS device or phone. The backpack also features an internal sleeve for hydration bladder which doubles as a lightweight daypack. The Gregory Baltoro 75 backpack is available in three sizes which differ in backpanel length and overall capacity.

Women's Version: Available - Gregory Deva 70

• Hydration bladder sleeve doubles as a daypack
• Rotating hip belt
• Price may be a limiting factor for some

Gregory Mountain Products Men's Baltoro 75 Backpacking Pack, dusk blue, medium

REI | Backcountry

Deuter Aircontact Pro 70+15

3. Deuter AirContact Pro 70+15

The Deuter AirContact Pro 70+15 is an extremely durable expedition backpack which provides great functionality. However, with the weight of 7 lbs. it is also the heaviest backpack in this review. The body of the backpack is made of 600-denier polyester while the areas exposed to abrasion are made of durable 330-denier nylon. Both materials are coated with polyurethane for better water resistance.  The backpack features the AirContact Pro back system which has two aluminum stays for good stability when you are carrying heavy loads. The shoulder straps and hip belt are anatomically shaped and well-padded to provide good comfort. Like the Gregory Baltoro 75, the Deuter AirContact Pro 70+15 features a rotating hip belt for good fit. The backpanel is padded with foam and has an air channel in the middle for increased breathability and comfort. The backpack features a main compartment, external lid pocket, internal lid pocket, two zippered side pockets, two side mesh pockets, front stash pocket and a hip belt pocket.  The main compartment can be accessed from the top, bottom and front. The zippered side pocket is designed to fit a hydration bladder with a volume up to 3 liters. The backpack also has attachment points for trekking poles and ice axes. It comes with a rain cover. The Deuter AirContact Pro 70+15 backpack is only available in one size but it does have a fully adjustable back system which ensures perfect fit for most people. It has a capacity of 70 liters but it can be extended for 15 liters by rolling the top collar up and extending the lid straps.

Women's Version: Available - Deuter AirContact Pro 65+15

• AirContact Pro back system for excellent load distribution and ventilation
• Integrated rain cove
• Relatively heavy for some users
• Hydration bladder goes in the side pocket (has to be balanced out with a counterweight)

Deuter Aircontact Pro 70 + 15 Trekking Backpack

Backcountry

4. Mountain Hardwear AMG 75

• Ski touring

The Mountain Hardwear AMG 75 backpack is the result of the brand’s year-long research and cooperation with mountain guides and athletes to make the optimal expedition pack. It is made of 200D ripstop nylon, but the bottom, external pockets and other areas prone abrasion are made of 840-denier nylon with a carbonated surface. The white crampon pocket on the front of the pack is made with the even stronger Dimension Polyant DX40 , so you can safely carry crampons, ice axes etc. in it. Behind the crampon pocket, there is a zippered pocket with internal sleeves designed to accommodate a probe and a snow shovel, but you can of course fill it with whichever equipment you are bringing. The water bottle pockets on the sides can be expanded by loosening the pockets’ compression straps accordingly in order to carry bulkier items. The compression straps on the front and sides are connected so you can place and secure bulky items like a tent, sleeping pad etc. wherever it suits you. There are two zippered pockets (one with weather flap) on top of the lid for easy access, and also a small zippered pocket on the inside of the lid, which is fully removable. The Mountain Hardwear AMG 75 backpack is hydration-compatible, with the sleeve separate from the main compartment – which can only be accessed from the top. The (rotating and removable) hipbelt, shoulder straps and top of the backpanel are thickly padded for comfort when carrying a heavy load. The AMG 75 backpack comes in two torso sizes, but can adjusted further for additional comfort and fit.

Women’s Version: No – this product is unisex and can thus be used by all. Be aware of sizing, though.

• Multiple attachment points (loops, compression straps) for tools and additional gear
• Main compartment can be overloaded if you loosen the inner cinch cord
• Limited availability compared to more mainstream brands
• May not have as many organizational features as other packs

Mountain Hardwear AMG 75 Pack

5. Kelty Coyote 85

The Kelty Coyote 85 is the most spacious expedition backpack in this review – it has a capacity of 85 liters. The backpack provides great durability as it is made of 420-denier polyester. The hip belt, shoulder straps and backpanel are made of breathable foam and thus they provide good comfort and breathability. The backpack uses the FIT-Pro back system which is designed for carrying heavy loads. The FIT-Pro back system features one aluminum stay which efficiently transfers the weight from the shoulders to the hips. The backpack has a main compartment, external lid pocket, internal lid pocket, two zippered side pockets, two front zippered pockets, a front stash pocket and two hip belt pockets. The main compartment can be accessed from the top and the bottom. The backpack also features trekking pole attachment system and a pocket for hydration system. It comes only in one size but as it has a fully adjustable suspension system, it fits most people.

Women’s Version: No – this product is unisex and can thus be used by all. Be aware of fitting it properly, though.

• Multiple pockets for organization
• Solid construction and durability
• Limited ventilation on the back panel

Kelty Coyote 60-105 Liter Backpack, Men's and Women's (2020 Update) - Hiking, Backpacking, Travel Backpack

Campsaver | Kelty

4. Expedition Backpack Buying Advice – What is important?

Frame and hip belt:.

All backpacks in this review have an internal frame so that they transfer the weight from the shoulders to the hips via the hip belt. Carrying a heavy backpack is much easier if the weight is efficiently transferred to the hips as the hips are supported by larger muscle groups than the shoulders. A study from Murdoch university in Australia concluded that hip belt increases level of stability and decreases level of exertion.

The backpack must match your torso length so that it sits comfortably on your back. Your torso length is the distance between the bony bump at the base of your neck and the tops of your hipbones (learn how to measure your torso length in the fit section of our  Hiking Backpacks Guide ). In the comparison table above, we have listed the respective torso length(s) which each backpack fits. It is also important to adjust the backpack correctly. Learn how to adjust the backpack in our article How to fit a backpack .

The backpanel is a very important part of the backpack as it provides ventilation so that the sweat from your back can evaporate, rather than seeping through your clothes and the backpack. The expedition backpacks in this review feature ergonomically shaped ventilated backpanels. Some also include a suspended mesh fabric which creates a distance between your back and the backpack to allow the air to flow in between. Such a construction provides especially good ventilation.

Lightweight equipment decreases the aerobic demand (heart rate, calorie consumption etc.), and thus allows you to hike faster and easier than with heavier gear. As backpacks are not among the lightest pieces of hiking gear, a lightweight backpack makes a big difference. In this selection we only included lightweight expedition backpacks (in terms of weight to capacity ratio) – the heaviest expedition backpack on this list weighs around 7 pounds (3 kg). Read more about why it is important to use lightweight gear for hiking in our article Why hike lightweight .

Pockets and attachment points:

In addition to the main compartment, an expedition backpack with a capacity of more than 70 liters should also have well-placed and easily accessible pockets/compartments. Pockets and compartments allow you to organize your gear so that you can easily and quickly find important items. All backpacks in this review are also equipped with attachment points (for hiking poles, ice axes, helmet etc.).

Hydration System Compatibility:

A hydration system allows you to hydrate without having to take off your backpack to get to the water bottles. To learn more about the advantages and disadvantages of hydration systems please read our article Hydration Systems VS. Water Bottles . If you don’t already have a hydration bladder, check out our review of the  Best Hydration Bladders .

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Outdoor enthusiast with experience in all types of hiking and mountaineering. Hiked in the Alps, Iceland and other countries. In love with via ferrata trails and snow-covered slopes. Check out my hikes .

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How an 80-year-old tote bag became the latest fashion accessory

L.L. Bean created it 80 years ago to haul heavy blocks of ice. Now it’s a must-have summer fashion accessory.

The simple, sturdy canvas bag called the Boat and Tote is having an extended moment 80 years after its introduction, thanks to a social media trend in which they’re monogrammed with ironic or flashy phrases.

New Yorker Gracie Wiener helped get it started by ordering her humble bags from L.L. Bean monogrammed with “Psycho” and then “Prada,” the pricey Italian luxury brand, instead of just her name or initials, and posting about them on Instagram . Then others began showcasing their own unique bags on TikTok.

Soon, it wasn’t enough to have a bag monogrammed with “Schlepper,” “HOT MESS,” “slayyyy” or “cool mom.” Customers began testing the limits of the human censors in L.L. Bean’s monogram department, which bans profanity “or other objectionable words or phrases,” with more provocative wording like “Bite me,” “Dum Blonde” and “Ambitchous.”

Social media fueled the surge, just as it did for Stanley’s tumblers and Trader Joe’s $2.99 canvas bags, which were once selling on eBay for $200, said Beth Goldstein, an analyst at Circana, which tracks consumer spending and trends.

The tote’s revival came at a time when price-conscious consumers were forgoing expensive handbags, sales of which have weakened, and L.L. Bean’s bag fit the bill as a functional item that’s trendy precisely because it’s not trendy, she said. L.L. Bean’s regular bags top out at about $55, though some fancier versions cost upward of $100.

“There’s a trend toward the utilitarian, the simple things and more accessible price points,” she said, and the customization added to the appeal: “Status items don’t have to be designer price points.”

L.L. Bean’s tote was first advertised in a catalog as Bean’s Ice Carrier in 1944 during World War II, when ice chests were common. Then they disappeared before being reintroduced in 1965 as the Boat and Tote.

These days, they’re still made in Maine and are still capable of hauling 500 pounds of ice, but they are far more likely to carry laptops, headphones, groceries, books, beach gear, travel essentials and other common items.

Those snarky, pop-oriented phrases transformed them into a sassy essential and helped them spread beyond Maine, Massachusetts’ Cape Cod and other New England enclaves to places like Los Angeles and New York City, where fashionistas like Gwyneth Paltrow, Reese Witherspoon and Sarah Jessica Parker are toting them — but not necessarily brandished with ironic phrases.

“It’s just one of those things that makes people smile and makes people laugh, and it’s unexpected,” said Wiener, who got it all started with her @ironicboatandtote Instagram page, which she started as a fun side hustle from her job as social media manager for Air Mail, a digital publication launched by former Vanity Fair Editor-in-Chief Graydon Carter.

The folks at L.L. Bean were both stunned and pleased by the continuing growth. For the past two years, the Boat and Tote has been L.L. Bean’s No. 1 contributor to luring in new customers, and sales grew 64% from fiscal years 2021 to 2023, spokesperson Amanda Hannah said.

The surge in popularity is reminiscent of L.L. Bean’s traditional hunting shoe, the iconic staple for trudging through rain and muck, which enjoyed its own moment a few years back, driven by college students.

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Amazon's Top-selling Carry-on Bags Are Majorly Discounted for Prime Day — Shop Our 18 Favorites From $18

Score your next carry-on for 76 percent off.

Travel + Leisure / Francesca Fasciglione

If you travel even occasionally, having a reliable carry-on in your luggage collection is an absolute must. Need a refresher? A carry-on is a duffel, backpack, suitcase, or other bag that is no larger than 22 by 14 by 9 inches — that way, you can easily stow it either under your seat or in the plane’s overhead bins. And right now, we’re thrilled at just how many carry-ons are on sale for Amazon Prime Day . Our favorites are up to 76 percent off!

From Samsonite spinners to Adidas duffels, some of the biggest brands on the market are majorly discounted through Wednesday night, so now is the time to shop. Just remember: while Amazon Prime members have access to the best deals of the event, you don’t actually need a Prime account to shop (though it takes no time to sign up for a free one). 

Best Carry-on Deals Overall

• Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Carry-on , $113 (originally $190)
• Adidas Unisex Defender 4 Small Duffel Bag , $27 (originally $40)
• HYC00 Travel Duffel Bag , $18 (originally $30)
• Vera Bradley Softside Rolling Suitcase , $125 (originally $250)
• Rockland Melrose Upright Wheeled Underseater 15-inch Carry-on , $44 (originally $180)

Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Carry-on

Here at T+L, we’re big fans of the Samsonite Winfield 2 — especially when it’s on sale. Right now, it’s 41 percent off its original price, which is a steal considering it boasts TSA-approved locks, smooth-rolling 360-degree wheels, and lightweight construction . At just 20 inches tall, it’s on the compact side, but its spacious interior has the room for a few days’ worth of clothing, plus a laptop and smaller items like cosmetics, toiletries, and tech. 

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable 20-inch Carry-on

More of a softside traveler? You’ll love the Maxlite 5 from Travelpro that’s currently 25 percent off. It’s crafted with a unique, tapered expansion design that prevents tipping and offers up to two inches of stretch. It’s also equipped with multiple internal and external pockets, compression straps, gliding spinner wheels, and even a telescoping handle featuring contour grip and rubberized touch points for extra comfort. 

Etronik Travel Duffel Bag With Shoe Compartment

Etronik has quickly impressed us with its stylish designs and thoughtfully crafted bags — that’s why we’re so excited to see one of the brand’s most popular styles, the shoe compartment travel duffel, on sale for just $26 right now. The sturdy bag, which is available in 23 colors, comes with useful features like a USB interface, a zippered wet bag, a small makeup pouch, multiple pockets, and of course, a large zippered shoe compartment on the bottom. It’s even comfy to carry thanks to padding on both the shoulder strap and top handles.

Vera Bradley Softside Rolling Suitcase

Vera Bradley is known for its colorfully quilted purses and backpacks, but did you know the brand also makes luggage? We love this 22-inch spinner for its multiple interior pockets, hidden front compartment complete with two large slip pockets, a telescoping handle, and double swivel wheels. It’s a whopping 50 percent off for Prime Day and comes in several different floral and paisley prints.

HYC00 Travel Duffel Bag

“Perfect for any occasion, whether you're heading to the gym, a weekend getaway, or even as a carry-on for flights,” — that’s how one shopper describes the HYC00 Travel Duffel Bag. The versatile pick is down to just $18 at the moment, and we can’t wait to get our hands on it. Thanks to a special water-resistant pocket, you can easily separate dry and wet clothes in this bag. Plus, it has a 35-liter capacity and seven additional pockets, so you can stuff plenty of items inside. 

Samsonite Underseat Carry-on Spinner With USB Port

We believe everyone needs a reliable underseater in their luggage collection, and this discounted option from Samsonite is a fabulous choice. For $97, you can snag this incredibly compact piece the brand notes is perfect for a two-day trip. While tiny, it still has the space for a 13.3-inch laptop (and even has a padded slot for one) as well as plenty of clothing, accessories, and toiletries. It even has a USB port for easy charging of all your devices.

SwissGear Sion Softside Expandable 21-inch Carry-on

This bag is soft enough that it won't dent or scratch, but durable enough to wheel everywhere — and at 20 percent off, we can’t recommend it enough. The sleek and compact bag features two external zip pockets, several internal pockets, a removable wet bag, and a spacious main compartment with compression straps. It's large enough for a multi-day trip, while four spinner wheels allow for effortless transportation. 

Vera Bradley Women’s Softside Underseat Rolling Work Bag

Talk about tiny! At just 17 inches tall, this two-wheeled bag is perfect for short trips or travelers who prefer to carry only the essentials to their seat. A 49-percent discount for Prime Day only makes us love its plentiful pockets, TSA-approved locks, compression straps, trolley sleeve, and surprisingly spacious interior even more. A pretty floral print inside the main compartments and pockets adds an extra touch of fun.

Rinlist Carry-on Travel Backpack for Men and Women

Using a backpack as a carry-on is always a good idea, especially when it’s only $35. This option from Rinlist was made for travel — it opens clamshell-style so you can easily pack and see your items, and it comes with two transparent bags for toiletries or makeup. It also boasts a USB charging port as well as a hidden back pocket specifically designed for laptops up to 15.6 inches. This pack even offers extra security and protection in the form of anti-theft pockets and waterproof construction.  

Rockland Melrose Upright Wheeled Underseater 15-inch Carry-on

At 76 percent off, the markdown on this stylish Rockland underseater is one of the best deals of Prime Day. And it’s not just the major savings we love — this 15-inch bag also features a unique main compartment with a divider and four pockets, as well as exterior mesh pockets, a smaller zip compartment, top handles, and a telescoping handle that can be hidden away. The soft, quilted exterior comes in several colors including red and turquoise.

Kenneth Cole Reaction Renegade Hardside 20-inch Carry-on

You may know Kenneth Cole for its stunning shoes and jackets, but the brand’s luggage is just as stylish and long-lasting. For Prime Day, you can cop the Reaction Renegade carry-on for just $72, which is a bargain considering all the luxe features. From its reinforced corners to its shock-resistant construction, you know this bag will hold up through years of travel. Other extras we love include its expandability, its multiple grab handles, and its abundance of interior pockets.

Vancropak 40L Carry-on Backpack With 3 Packing Cubes

A travel backpack that comes with its own set of packing cubes? Yes, please. This carry-on backpack, which is 40 percent off and opens clamshell-style like a suitcase, is equipped with three durable packing cubes of different sizes to help you stay organized and optimize space. It also has compression straps, interior pockets, and padded shoulder straps — plus, shoppers describe it as “perfect” with “just enough firmness, structure, and size for a 10-day trip.”

Rockland Melbourne Hardside 20-inch Carry-on

With its bright colors and rounded edges, the Rockland Melbourne evokes fun throwback styles of the early 2000s. However, its aluminum telescoping handle, 360-degree double spinner wheels, expandable construction, and scratch-free hardshell prove it to be quite cutting edge. It’s 64 percent off and perfect for a weeklong summer vacation, so we suggest dropping it in your cart now.

Samsonite Adante 2 Wheeled 22-inch Duffel Bag

A rolling duffel is truly a game changer for certain types of travel and travelers, and one of our favorites is 30 percent off right now. Unlike many duffels, the Samsonite Adante 2 is structured enough to stand on its own, even when empty. It has an extra-large main compartment and additional large side pockets while remaining within carry-on size limits — plus, it has grab handles on virtually every side, so you can carry or wheel it any way that’s comfortable for you.

Adidas Unisex Defender 4 Small Duffel Bag

When a bag has more than 9,000 perfect ratings, you know it’s doing something right. For just $27 today, you can take home the top-rated Adidas Unisex Defender 4, a spacious and sturdy duffel packed with pockets including a ventilated compartment for shoes and a hidden external pocket for small items. One shopper raved about the bag’s durability and versatility, writing “I’ve used this for nearly a year now, both indoors to the gym and outdoors to the pool and beach. So far it has held up with zero defects or tears.”

Troubadour Ember Waterproof Backpack

Sleek, stylish, and sturdy, you’ll love this compact backpack that’s currently $109 off. It’s outfitted with an easy-access laptop sleeve, plenty of internal and external pockets to keep you organized, padded shoulder straps, and even a breathable back panel to keep you comfortable wherever you go. At 11.5 by 17 by 4 inches, it’s the perfect carry-on pack for those who like to travel light without sacrificing style. 

Cluci Anti-theft Duffel Bag With Shoe Compartment

This roomy Cluci duffel perfectly blends modern luggage styles with vintage elegance — and at nearly half-off its original price, you don’t want to miss out on buying it right now. The capacious canvas and vegan leather bag features a large main compartment, two interior slip pockets, an interior zip pocket, a front pocket, a back pocket, a bottom shoe compartment, and even two pen slots, so say goodbye to disorganized travel. It even comes with an adjustable shoulder strap for added comfort.

Bagsmart 50L Carry-on Duffel Bag

This 50-liter carry-on is your classic black bag with a little extra distinction thanks to a quilted exterior. It has several pockets for things like shoes and wet items, but the real star of the bag is its ultra-roomy main compartment that’s large enough to fit up to five days’ worth of clothing and accessories. On top of that, the bag includes an adjustable and detachable shoulder strap. 

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