women's small travel backpack

18 Best Travel Backpacks For Women Of 2024, Per A Travel Expert, Editors, And Reviews

Leave your bulky suitcase at home.

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If you haven't yet mastered the art of minimalist packing, you know what might help? A travel backpack. The best travel backpacks for women are designed with several pockets to organize all your clothing, toiletries, tech, and more in one place without requiring you to rummage through it to find that one thing you need.

"You need a backpack that offers value for your money while effectively meeting your travel needs," says travel expert Alexandra Dubakova , head of marketing at FreeTour.com, a website for booking local tours. The right backpack may even inspire you to ditch your bulky suitcase. Not checking a bag not only saves you time at the airport, but frees up your hands to do better things, like grabbing a cup of Starbucks coffee right before you get on your flight.

See some of the best travel backpacks for women below:

Most Budget-Friendly Travel Backpack For Women

Kroser laptop backpack.

Most Comfy To Hold Travel Backpack For Women

The north face borealis backpack.

Most Lightweight Travel Backpack For Women

Baboon to the moon go-bag.

That being said, there are times when a suitcase is necessary , especially if you're going on a longer trip. On those occasions, travel backpacks for women come in handy for things you need to access quickly, like your passport during international travel, a laptop, or a light jacket if you're prone to feeling cold while flying.

To find the best backpacks for every kind of traveler, Women's Health curated this list using feedback from a travel expert and our own lifestyle editors. See below for the best travel backpacks for women you can buy in 2023, according to editors, experts, and reviews.

This laptop-friendly backpack has more than 19,700 reviews and five stars on Amazon, but it's under $40—talk about a steal. It's designed with padded straps to help you avoid shoulder fatigue, and a wide-mouth frame that allows you to open up the bag to see all your belongings easily at a glance.

Dubakova likes this backpack because it has an aqua blue inner lining that's more unique than the usual basic black or brown. "That pop of color makes it so much easier to spot my stuff inside the bag," she says. "I'm always digging around to find things, so having that brighter interior sounds super handy." On the downside, she doesn't love that the zippers are bulky and visible, since they make the pockets an easy target for thieves.

Rave Review: "I waited nine months to post this review because I wanted to see how this backpack held up. It has surpassed my every expectation. I can cram tons of stuff into it, it’s durable, and has held up to a ton of abuse on my part. It also has all the right compartments to keep my stuff organized and the price just can’t be beat."

With over 2,900 positive reviews and five stars on Amazon, this backpack gets tons of customer love. It has a top handle and highly-padded straps for optimal comfort when it's on your back. With pockets galore and a fleece-lined laptop sleeve, you'll be able to easily and comfortably store all your essentials in it. It also has a bungee strap front system for slipping in a sweatshirt or a water bottle.

Isabel McMahon, a Women's Health social media editor who's always on-the-go, says that this bag is so comfortable and durable, she's been using it for years. "The laptop sleeve is next-level, and the padded back is essential for a long travel day." She also says it’s perfect for an office-to-gym bag, or as a weekend trip carry-on. On the other hand, her only complaint is that there are a lot of straps and clips hanging off of the bag, which can sometimes get in the way, she says.

Rave Review: "This bag fits very comfortably on the back and the chest strap doesn't crowd the boobs like other packs do. It is compact, but can also manage to comfortably hold a couple binders, notebooks, and a laptop. The padding for the laptop is very nice, especially with the rigid back. So, if you have a thin laptop you don't have to worry about unnecessary torque."

This go-bag, which comes in a bunch of vibrant colors, fits about three to five days worth of clothing and other essentials. It's TSA-approved as a carry-on item, and also comes with adjustable straps so that you can carry it like a backpack or a duffel—whatever suits your needs.

Reviewers say they love how spacious this bag is and that the zipper is located in the back, so it's not exposed while you're wearing it, making it hard for others to open it. Customers also say that they like that the travel backpack is waterproof and durable, though they wish it had more interior and exterior pockets. When the bag isn't filled to the brim, it loses structure, so it can look a little lumpy.

Rave Review: "This is the perfect bag. I've struggled to carry my bags through the airport and on to the plane in the past. This bag is a dream come true. It’s lightweight (even when crammed full, it holds so much) and so ergonomically-friendly!"

Everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack

This bag is so popular that it has sold out multiple times. It's made with an exterior laptop pocket for easy access when you're heading through security, as well as multiple catch-all compartments for tickets, passports, and the like. The flap remains closed with an invisible magnet to keep the design super sleek, and there's even a pass-through strap at the back for slipping it over your rolling luggage handle.

Reviewers say that they like that this bag is clean and chic, and pretty roomy inside, though it could have more organizational pockets. Some customers also report that the color of the actual bag may be slightly different in person than what's pictured on site, so that's something to keep in mind. Overall, reviewers love that the bag is easy to access, water-resistant, and easy to clean.

Note: Certain colors are out of stock, but can be preordered.

Rave Review: "I am obsessed with my new backpack. I was pleasantly surprised by how much it can fit without looking bulky on my back. The fabric and make looks and feels high-quality. The bag has granted me many compliments while out and about already. LOVE!"

UGrace Vintage Laptop Backpack

This backpack made from durable material that supposedly doesn't tear has more than 4,500 positive ratings on Amazon for plenty of reasons. It's made with a USB port attached to the bag that allows you to charge your tech pretty much anywhere. The main pocket is also extra large, meaning you can pack clothes, slippers, and toiletries with ease.

Customers who have used this backpack say it is sturdy with plenty of pockets and that it's easy to hold. They also say that the fabric is pretty durable, and that the straps are thick which make it comfy on the shoulders. However, some users said that they wished the bag was a little roomier, as it appears bigger than what it actually is.

Rave Review: "I bought this backpack as a carry-on for a long international flight. I was able to fit so much inside and was extremely impressed at how well it held up. I kept the electronics and valuables in the biggest pouch, and I used the smaller pouch for things like my passport and chargers that I would need to access quickly."

Cuyana Leather Backpack

This leather bag—believe it or not—actually fits a 13-inch laptop. It features a zippered compartment for your valuables, slots for your phone and keys, and straps that allow you to carry it on your shoulder as a purse or backpack. Grab it in your choice of three colors.

Though this one doesn't have online reviews, this editor-approved pick is a cult-favorite thanks to its sleek Italian leather design, adjustable notches, and wide back straps.

Lululemon Wunderlust Backpack

Built with plenty of storage compartments, this Lululemon backpack was designed for someone who's always on the move. It features side pockets for items you want to frequently reach with ease, adjustable exterior straps to hold a jacket or yoga mat with, and buckle closures that keep your items secure.

Rave Review: "The bag is so spacious and sturdy. This is exactly what I was looking for to use on my upcoming international trip with my baby...It looks classy, too—though, a little bit boxy."

JanSport Central Adaptive Backpack

Designed for use by disabled people or people with limited mobility, this Jansport backpack can fit on to a variety of mobility devices. It's also designed with tangle-proof shoulder straps, fumble-free release buckles, and a shorter height than other bags to make accessing the bottom of it a little easier.

Rave Review: "This bag has such a great design. I love how it comes with two straps (short and long). The lining is water-resistant, which is great for spillage."

J World New York Sundance Rolling Backpack

If you prefer a rolling backpack, this 20-inch bag with an adjustable handlebar (and over 6,000 positive ratings!) is for you. It's kind of a steal when you can catch it on sale, and its fully padded interior includes two large compartments along with several internal pockets. (Plus, there are three exterior zipper pockets to store smaller things like snacks, your phone, and the like).

Rave Review: "This backpack is sturdy, beautifully-organized, and can hold a lot. It can stand up alone and I can leave pockets open as I pull things in and out as I work. The sturdy wheels [can] handle terribly bumpy parking lots. The colors are vivid and cheerful."

Rains Trail Cargo Backpack

If you're looking for a backpack that's sleek and minimalistic, this one's for you. Aside from how stylish it is, this bag's main feature is that it has a totally waterproof exterior—meaning you can store all your tech inside and rest easy knowing everything will remain unaffected by the elements.

Rave Review: "The minimalist look of the bag was my first attraction. There are two interior pockets to hold a computer and other gear securely with enough [extra] room for what I need to take with me. I was looking for something that didn't scream 'backpack.' This has been a great purchase."

Matein Travel Backpack

Do you stuff your backpack to the brim every time you travel? If that's a "yes," you'll definitely appreciate that this bag has 40 whole liters of space. It has a place to hold your shoes, laptop, power bank, and all the toiletries you usually bring along. You'll also love that it's extra large, but still TSA-approved.

Rave Review: "This is an excellent bookbag. It has a bunch of different compartments and it’s very spacious. Also, it’s lightweight and the material is very durable."

Monos Metro Backpack

Monos' Metro Backpack isn't just nice to look at, it's also plenty functional. The travel bag is designed with a detachable pouch, known as a Metro Kit , which you can use to house your valuables, and a built-in trolley sleeve so you can attach it to any Monos suitcase .

Rave Review: " I LOVE this bag. I was worried that the bag might look too big on me (I'm five-foot-two), but it's perfect. I love how easy it is to stay organized. The separate zipper access to the laptop sleeve is the BEST ever for flying!"

Bago Backpack Duffle Bag

If you're looking for a more lightweight but spacious option, this is it. Adjust the straps to use this as a backpack or hold the straps on each side like a duffel. In its huge main compartment, this bag can store a week's worth of stuff.

Rave Review: "I just received this bag today and upon first impression—it's brilliant! Seriously, the way you can just fold this bag up when it's not in use is a great feature I haven't personally seen on other duffel bags and it holds a good amount."

Asenlin Travel Backpack

With more than 2,400 positive ratings on Amazon, this under-$100 travel backpack opens up like a duffel to reveal tons of packing space. The bag also comes with three packing cubes, which make it easier to organize and store your items, since you can divide them into sections.

Rave Review: "I bought this backpack to use as my personal item when we travel by air...It is perfect for this use, as it fits under the airplane seat and has a strap that fits over my carry-on. The best feature I love about this backpack is that it opens up like a suitcase! It's easy to pack, and has a thick, sturdy handle at the top of the [bag] as well."

Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Backpack

This simple but chic backpack has an internal laptop sleeve that's easily accessible, as well as two side pockets for slipping in water bottles or other necessities. Plus, there's also a catch-all front pocket and mini compartment in the back for storing valuables.

Rave Review: "I took [the bag] with me on a flight to California, and it fit well under the seat. I also used it to hold my beach essentials when I went to the beach and for bike rides around the bay. It’s cute and functional."

Carhartt Legacy Hybrid Convertible Backpack

Customers say this Carhartt backpack is smaller than other bags, but very much multi-functional. It can be worn as a backpack or carried as a duffel-esque tote.

The bag is made from heavy-duty fabric so that it can withstand rain and cold, and features extra pockets, like a padded laptop sleeve and side compartments, for optimal storage opportunities.

Rave Review: "I love the versatility of this bag. It's very well-made and easy to use. The size is perfect—big enough to hold a laptop plus other items, but small enough that it's not in the way. Great travel bag."

Away F.A.R. Convertible Backpack

Able to hold a whopping 45 liters, this Away backpack can pretty much do it all. Thanks to its removable straps, it can convert from a backpack to a duffel. The bag can also handle any weather or environment. It's made with abrasion and weather-resistant recycled materials, which—yep—means it's sustainably-designed, too.

Rave Review: "I am pleasantly surprised with how much stuff I could put in this bag! I took it on a weekend trip and was able to fit everything I needed. I love that it has several pockets to store small things that you want to keep handy. I've been a fan of Away luggage for years and I'm glad I get to add this bag to my collection."

Cotopaxi Allpa Travel Pack

If you prefer travel backpacks that open up like a suitcase, this Cotopaxi bag is your pick. It's built with a full wrap-around zipper, so you can plop it open on your bed for a bird's-eye view of what you've packed. It also comes with a padded laptop and tablet sleeve, making it ideal for work trips.

Rave Review: "I can fit a week's worth of clothing in this bag and it fits on every airplane. If you really stuff it full, it still fits under the seat in the smaller airplanes and up top on the larger ones. If you travel frequently by air, this is a great alternative to a roller bag."

How our team chose the best travel backpacks for women

For the past few months, Women's Health editors, including commerce editor Jasmine Gomez, have been researching the best travel backpacks for women to buy online. WH consulted travel expert Alexandra Dubakova and our lifestyle editors, and also vetted thousands of expert reviews to find the very best options available online.

What should I look for in a travel backpack for women?

There's an endless selection of travel backpacks for women for you to load up on, but here are a few things you should look out for to find the best ones.

Lugging a backpack through airports, tossing it into overheads on trains and buses, or folding it down for storage will put your travel bag through the wringer, so it's important you grab something that's durable. "A durable backpack is more cost-effective because it provides greater longevity and offers value for your money," Dubakova says. You can get a sense of a bag's durability by looking at the bag's seams, she explains. Make sure it doesn't have loose threads or inconsistent stitching.

When it comes to the most durable fabrics, Dubakova recommends cordura. "It is resistant to abrasion, weather-resistant, and more rugged compared to nylon," she says. She also recommends compromising between the bag's heaviness and durability. "For example, canvas bags are sturdy, and the material is durable, but it is considerably heavy," Dubakova says.

You'll know whether a bag is supportive depending on how comfortable you are, and since you may wear your backpack for quite a while, you definitely want something that feels good to throw on. "A comfortable backpack will evenly distribute the weight of its contents to avoid pain and pressure on the shoulder or back and any injuries," Dubakova says.

To find a backpack that will be as comfortable as possible, Dubakova recommends looking for ones with adjustable shoulder straps, padded backs, and adjustable hip belts. This will allow you to toy around with it to get the perfect fit.

When it comes to design, you should consider how your bag will make the experience of traveling better. For example, Dubakova recommends bags with mesh back panels, since they can ensure there's enough airflow to prevent you from heating up and sweating when you're on-the-go. Other special features someone might enjoy include pockets of different sizes, individual storage bags to accompany the bag, or even a sleeve to store your laptop.

Finally, you should get something you think is cute or aesthetically-pleasing. Travel backpacks come in different sizes, color schemes, and prices, so choose something that works for you.

Jasmine Gomez is the Commerce Editor at Women’s Health, where she cover the best product recommendations across beauty, health, lifestyle, fitness, and more. When she's not shopping for a living, she enjoys karaoke and dining out more than she cares to admit. Follow her @JazzeGomez .  

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Home » Gear » best travel backpacks for women

20 BEST Travel Backpacks for Women (2024 Expert Picks)

Your backpack will carry every single one of your possessions on the road; it will be your home away from home! Therefore, choosing the perfect one for you is essential for your travels.

Comfortable, durable, big or small – there are so many factors that play into the right backpack, and it’s different for everyone. Since there are so many options, it can be quite overwhelming to make a decision on your own. That’s why I’ve created a guide to the best travel backpacks for women!

With lots of research, travel experience and an eye for the important details, I’ve included all sorts of different bags (All packs have been extensively used by myself and The Broke Backpacker team). No matter where you’re headed to, I’ve got the right backpack for you!

Every pack in this comprehensive guide was designed to last you for years, both in wear-and-ear and style.

Besides my top picks, I’ve included a quick guide at the end to help you figure out what to look for in a backpack.

Ready to find out the best women’s backpack for travel… course you are! Let’s crack on!

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

Quick Answer: What are the best Women’s backpacks of 2024?

Why use a women’s travel backpack, best travel backpacks for women overall, best carry-on travel backpacks, best hiking backpacks for women.

• Best Travel Bag with Wheels – Osprey Fairview 65 Wheeled Travel Pack

Best Travel Backpack for the Minimalist – Patagonia Refugio 30L

Best lightweight backpack for women – tempest velocity 20.

• Best Camera Backpack – WANDRD PRVKE

Most Stylish Women’s Travel Pack – MAHI Leather Explorer

• Best Laptop Backpack – Tortuga 40L Travel Pack

Honorable Mention – Nomatic Travel Pack

How to choose the best travel backpack for women, how and where i tested to find the travel backpacks for women, faq about the best travel backpacks for women, final thoughts on the best travel backpacks for women.

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In a rush? Here are the best women’s travel backpacks in this review…

• Best Overall Travel Backpack for Women – Osprey Fairview 40L
• Best Carry-On Travel Backpack  –   Nomatic Travel Pack
• Best Laptop Backpack – Tortuga 40L Travel Pack
• Best Leather Daypack – Katmai Diaper Bag
• Best Hiking Travel Backpack for Women –  Osprey Tempest 40L  
• Best Travel Bag for Minimalist Nomads –  Patagonia Refugio 30L
• Best Organized Travel Backpack – Tropicfeel Shell
• Best Travel Bag with Wheels –  Osprey Shuttle Wheeled Duffle
• Most Stylish Womens Travel Pack – MAHI Leather Explorer
• Best Lightweight Female Travel Backpack – Tempest Velocity 20
• Best Camera Backpack – WANDRD PRVKE 31

Osprey Fairview 40L

• Best Use > Backpacking

Tortuga Travel Backpack

• Best Use > Laptops

Nomatic Travel Pack

• Best Use > Carry On

Osprey Tempest 40L

• Bets Use > Hiking

WANDRD PRVKE 31

• Best Use > Photography

Tropicfeel Shell

• Best Use > Organized Packing

First of all, there is nothing wrong with purchasing unisex or male backpacks at all. When buying a backpack, your main priority should always be a comfortable fit, no matter what your travel intentions are, so you can wear it all day.

Women’s travel bags are designed specifically with the female body shape and different weight-carry in mind. Padding, length, and straps are different from the male bags, which is crucial for a comfortable fit since the bag has to align with your center of gravity. 

Bottom line: there are some great uni-sex backpacks, a few of which I have reviewed below, but I find ladies backpacks tend to be more comfortable when the weight starts stacking up

So without further talking, here are the top travel backpacks for women. From small to big, trendy, minimalistic or super durable, you’ll find everything right here!

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#1 – Osprey Fairview 40

The Osprey Fairview 40 is one of the only female backpacks for travel designed   with women in mind. Greatly fitting and adjustable straps, the right amount of padding, and enough compartments to keep all your stuff secure. I love taking it on day hikes, and many female travelers I know use it as their main bag.

With 40L it’s suitable for carry-on luggage, however, the small volume doesn’t necessarily make it a great choice for long hiking trips. There are advanced-hiking style features built-in, like an extra harness and hip belt, but some reviews mentioned an uncomfortable fit when you load it up too heavy.

This pack is not as feature-rich as some of the other Ladies’ backpacks on the market. Overall, though, this is a fantastic carry-on travel backpack for women that can do a little bit of everything. It’s comfortable, durable, AND affordable, so you have nothing to lose.

• Perfect carry on size
• Lifetime Warranty
• Affordable, especially for the quality
• Not as feature-rich as other backpacks
• Tries to do the hybrid thing, but I wouldn’t choose for hiking

The Osprey Fairview 40 may be the best backpack for you if:

If you want a badass carry-on backpack – this is an easy pick. Its suspension system means it’s extremely comfortable when you have to walk a couple of miles down dirt roads or cobblestone streets! It’s one of the best backpacks for women specifically.

I rated this classic as their best women’s travel backpack because it just seems to kick all the boxes and it’s stood the test of time. I’ve brought this back to loads of countries, and I love the clamshell opening and the massive storage area which is a real game-changer when it comes to backpacks. I also love the extra detachable daypack on the larger version, this is a real bonus.

#2 – REI Recycled RuckPack 60L

REI’s rugged ladies rucksack is marketed as both a travel bag and a hiking bag – and I completely agree! This bag has plenty of organizational compartments and thought out innovation as well as a supportive back panel, ventilated mesh padding, and a sternum strap.

It’s designed with women-specific features for hiking including harness straps that curve around the chest, a shortened torso length, and longer hip belt strap. With 60L volume it also lives up to the carry-on standards – a perfect overall backpack! Whether you’re hiking the Alps or on a trip around Asia, this durable women’s travel pack has got you covered.

The compartments are easy to reach due to full-zip designs and multiple access points. The sleeve along the back panel is designed to hold a hydration sleeve or laptop. Even fully packed, it still sits incredibly comfortably. The coolest part is that it’s made out of recycled nylon – making it a responsible travel purchase.

• Classic rucksack look
• Good pocket organization
• Great ventilation/back support
• No laptop compartment
• Preferable for hikers/campers
• Might be too big for ultra-light campers

The REI Co-Op Rucksack may be the best pack for you if:

Looking for a 40-liter travel bag but on a bit of a budget? Then this is a fantastic option! The Ladies Rucksack is well-designed, comfortable, and durable. It will do everything you need it to for your travels or camping.

I rated this their second-best backpack because of just how comfortable this bag felt. It’s been really well designed for the female form and our team felt it offered next-level comfort compared to more standard bags.

Looking for something a bit smaller, check out the Rei Flash 55 Backpack instead.

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#3 – REI Co-op Trail 40 Pack – Women’s

While Osprey seems to make backpacks for hiking or travel specifically, the REI Co-op Trail 40 Pack is a hybrid model. It features a suspension system, padded hip belt, and shoulder straps designed specifically for a woman’s build. Moreover, its front pocket. top stash pocket and included rain cover make it perfect for any kind of travel.

It’s a good overall pack: carry-on compliant and comfortable enough for multi-day hikes, but I would try this pack versus the REI Recycled RuckPack 60L and see which one fits you better.

Keep in mind that the woman-specific bag is slightly smaller than the men’s, but fits on budget airlines. I didn’t have a problem using this bag on Ryan Air, the ultimate test for carry-on size compliance.

• U-shaped panel opening with 4 zipper sliders
• Carry on compliant
• Woman-specific
• The suspension system is not as good as other hiking-specific backpacks
• No laptop section
• Front packet designed more for light travel

The REI Co-op Trail 40 Pack may be the best for you if:

Overall, you should get the REI Co-op Trail 40 Pack if you plan to travel, train hop, and do a few multi-day hikes. I wouldn’t get it if your main objective is urban travel nor if your main objective is backcountry hiking. It does both well, so if you want a pack that can do it all, then this is a good choice.

I felt this was one of their best travel packs for women because I loved just how well thought out the pack was in so many different aspects. The opening, hip belt pockets, and included rain cover are really cool features. I also loved the additional pockets all over the pack, they really add to the storage, organisation and accessibility.

#4 – Kodiak Katmai Diaper Bag

Don’t let the name fool you, this leather daypack by Kodiak can hold a lot more than diapers! Whilst it may be marketed at new moms, this backpack doubles up wonderfully as a travel daypack which is perfect for city exploration, non-technical hikes and airport runs.

Kodiak makes high-quality products that do not come cheap. The pack is made from Top-Grain cowhide and features 3 zippered compartments. There are 2 handy side pockets and a carrying handle for when you don’t want to use it as a backpack. 

Finally, the Katmai has a padded rear zippered compartment on the back of the bag plus a luggage strap. 

You should get the Kodiak Diaper Bag if you want something primarily for urban use that can handle lite-hikes. But I definitely wouldn’t get it if your main objective is backcountry hiking at altitude.

Kodiak also makes one of the best travel purses on offer too which would be a great compliment to this bag and help keep your passport and documents organised when you’re travelling from place to place.

I felt this was their best women’s daypack for travel if style and functionality are your goals . I loved the quality and feel of the soft but durable leather exterior. Combined with the number of external pockets, it’s not only a good-looking bag, but a super practical one too.

• Quality leather
• Carry handle
• Simple & stylish
• Not ideal for hiking
• Limited capacity

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#1 – Nomatic 30L Travel Bag

My favourite carry-on pack is this little doozy from Nomatic. Custom-designed for long weekend breaks of 2 -4 days, this pack is equally useful for a long weekend as it is a trip to the store.

It’s 30 liters, making it carry-on compliant just about everywhere. The bag’s tarpaulin and ballistic weave materials mean this travel backpack will last you for years to come.

Whether you are traveling for a business trip to Dubai or you are a Digital Nomad forever on the go, this will keep your laptop and valuables well secured all while looking stylish. Plus, you’ll have more pockets and sleeves than you know what to do with.

Its top features include an RFID Safe Pocket, Roller Bag Sleeve, a dedicated Underwear Pocket, Cord pass through, easy access pocket, water bottle pocket, an Innovative strap system and waist straps.

This is a unisex bag as most carry-on packs tend to be. It isn’t exactly feminine looking but maybe one days we’ll stop thinking a colour or inclusion of flowers is feminine in the first place!

• Modern and sleek
• Endless features
• Organization Galore
• Not Fememine
• Is 30L enough?
• Only available in the US!

The Nomatic Travel Pack may be the best for you if:

If you are a contemporary traveler spending a lot of time in urban environments, the Nomatic Travel Pack is a good choice. This pack was designed specifically to be used as carry on whilst also been a great day pack for walking around cities.

I felt this was the best carry-on backpack for women . I love that for a smaller bag, it still opens up in a clamshell style and features a heap of different organisational features including the special layered compartment full of pockets.

Sadly, Nomatic only ship to the US. If you are in the rest of the world, see the next entry from AER.

#2 – Tortuga Outbreaker

The real perks of the Tortuga Outbreaker are in its design. It has tons of pockets/compartments, and the main compartment is massive with the capacity to carry a ton of clothes. The Outbreaker design enables its the main compartment to be opened like a suitcase.

Inside the main compartment are six smaller compartments. The first four smaller compartments are enclosed within the main compartment.

This isn’t specifically a ladies backpack but designed to be uni-sex. That said, it’s quality build, intuitive design, fantastic organization, and smaller size make it the perfect bag for anyone who wants to travel light, but travel in style. I find it great for both city breaks where I need my laptop, or even moderate hikes that don’t require too much gear.

• Organization
• Rectangular shape
• Urban Travel Only

The Tortuga Outbreaker may be the best for you if:

This is one of the top backpacks for women and men. It is perfect if you want a carry on backpack that keeps your things organized and secure.

I loved the rugged hard wearing feel of this pack and how well it stood up to long term travel. They felt it has a high quality feel to the material and were confident keeping their gear in here even in wet weather.

#3 – AER Travel Pack 3

My number two choice for the best carry on, as well as the best overall travel backpack (whether you’re a woman or man) is the AER Travel Pack 3 . I have yet to find a travel backpack as feature-packed as this one.

AER bags are designed to be modern, sleek, and provide ultimate packing efficiency. This is accomplished by an extremely thoughtful design and tons of features that will be fully appreciated by anyone who travels a lot.

• Urban environments only
• Not woman-specific

The AER Travel Pack 3 may be the best for you if:

If you are a modern traveler who spends a lot of time in urban environments, the AER Travel Pack is going to be one of the best backpacks for you. This pack was designed specifically for people who live on the road.

I felt it was one of the best travel backpacks in this roundup and for basically anyone travelling because with a separate laptop pocket at the back of the bag, clamshell opening and a second large pocket full of organisational features, it’s a dream for those of us with OCD! It’s also a bag that just oozes rugged quality too.

#4 – Peak Design Travel Backpack

This bag is great for anyone who likes its design, efficiency, and organization. It’s easily one of the best minimalist bags on the market.

What sets this pack apart from AER is its access points and style of organization. This pack was also designed to accommodate photographers with camera gear. With the external and internal pockets you can keep all of your belongings organized and safe.

The volume might be a bit too small if you’re carrying a lot of equipment with you, which makes it more suitable for urban areas. A lot of full-time travelers can make 40-45L work for extended trips, while others will need more space, personally, I think it’s a great small travel backpack for women.

• Durable in every way
• Straps are really easy to stow
• Accessibility and pockets
• Zippers are not heavy duty

The Peak Design 40 Liter Backpack may be the best for you if:

Peak Design is leading the pack in innovation and design; if you want an ultra-modern and sleek backpack, look no further. This is a versatile, urban-style backpack perfect for city trips and weekend getaways.

As a photographer, I really loved this pack and felt it stood out amongst the options as the best for those of us with plenty of gear. The design of the bag will keep your equipment safe and accessible while also providing plenty of room for your other things,too.

#5 – Tropicfeel Shell Backpack

While this might not be a backpack specifically made for women, it definitely deserves a spot on this list.

Let’s be honest, having everything put away neatly can be a full-on game-changer when travelling via airplane. That’s when the Tropicfeel Shell Backpack really starts to shine.

Tropicfeels flagship product, the Shell, is a small to medium backpack sized with big ambitions. First up, it is a 3-1 extendable backpack that starts out as a 22 litre pack, then rolls up to 30 litres before the addition of a detachable pouch turns it into a 40 litre titan – how cool is that?!

Aside from being a 3-in-1 adjustable backpack, which you can adapt to use as a day pack, overnight pack and carry-on pack, the Shell also has another novel feature; its detachable hanging packing cube which acts as a portable, pre-loaded travel wardrobe. Unpacking and packing your backpack has never been this easy.

While you’re on the road, the compartment system keeps all of your belongings organized and neatly put away, so you can easily access everything without leaving a mess afterwards.

• Really fucking versatile
• Truly novel and unique
• Packs up easily
• Not big enough for big trips
• Not cheap (yet not expensive)

The Tropicfeel Shell may be the best bag for you if:

If you want to keep all of your belongings organized, be flexible with the volume of your backpack and tick off the sleek-style box, the Tropicfeel Sheel is ideal for you. It’s also great for minimal packers who like everything to have a place.

I really love Tropical Feel bags and this bag is the cream of the crop. The internal organiser might look like a gimmick but, it was fantastic! They felt it was really well designed and meant they could pack in so much more and keep things organised at the same time.

These are the best travel backpacks for women who spend a lot of time on trail.

#1 – Osprey Tempest 40L

The Osprey Tempest 40 Pack is highly functional and fully-featured that works for pretty much any occasion. It’s the best small hiking backpack on this list. It’s been with me for thousands of kilometers now (literally) and it’s not so big that you feel like a weighed-down turtle… BUT it can still carry a WHOLE LOT of epic gear!

With 40L it’s a go-to pack for 3-5 day hiking trips because of its size, weight, and durability. I’ve taken it to heights of up to 15,000 feet, and it’s the perfect bag for light packers. Features include an incredible suspension system (so comfortable and breathable), padded and adjustable shoulder straps and hip belt, external hydration sleeve, tuck-away ice tool loops/trekking pole attachments, and an integrated rain cover.

When it comes to travel and hiking, this is going to be one of the most versatile, small backpacks for women. The Osprey Tempest 40 is also quite affordable when you consider the quality and versatility you get!

• Versatile for hiking and camping
• Very comfortable suspension system
• Affordable for quality
• Not as many features for travel; more hiking specific
• 40L will work for most airlines, but not all

The Osprey Tempest 40 Pack may be the best for you if:

Osprey specializes in producing a range of backpacks for very specific activities and practical applications, from long trips to urban travel, to commuting, running, and school. Specificity is great, but sometimes you just want a backpack that works for everything rather than buying a backpack for every occasion.

This is one of the most versatile women’s rucksacks for hiking you’ll find. Your closet space, bank account, and the planet will thank you for buying fewer backpacks. It’s well-ventilated with heaps of room, and definitely one of the most comfortable bags I’ve taken on long hikes.

#2 – Osprey Aura AG 50

The Osprey Aura 50 is the best female travel backpack to hit the trails with. It’s also ideal for long term, slow travel as it can literally fit everything! Its unique Anti-Gravity suspension system makes this bag comfortable up to 40 lbs! I recommend comparing it to the Tempest above and figuring out which women’s rucksack is best for you.

Features include water bottle pockets, compression straps, anti-gravity suspension system, and multiple organization options.

• Comfortable suspension system
• High-quality
• Not as many features for travel (more hiking specific)
• 50L is often not carry-on compliant

The Aura 50 Liter may be the best for you if:

Overall, you should get the Osprey Aura 50 if you are traveling in a variety of weather (humidity and snow), and hike and backpack often. This backpack will be a great fit if you are looking for a high-quality backpack that can handle wear and tear deep in the wildest mountain ranges.

The team really loved how well this bag could be used to organised their gear even for a hiking pack. Another cool feature for the trails was the anti-gravity waist belt, they loved just how comfortable this made the pack even when fully packed and worn on a tough full day hike on challenging terrain.

#3 – Osprey Women’s Backpack Ariel Plus 60

Are you noticing a trend here?

I may be biased, but Osprey is my favorite brand when it comes to durable and ultra-comfortable hiking backpacks.

This backpack is probably overkill for most, but if you plan to travel with a ton of gear for a long time, or hit the trails for a week (my favorite pasttime) then this is an excellent pack that will last you for years and years to come.

Ultimately, Ariel has an incredible suspension system and tons of customizability when it comes to its compression straps, hip belt, and shoulder straps. This means that it provides great stabilization and weight carry for heavy loads (think over 35 pounds.)

• Extremely Durable
• Comfortable for heavy loads
• Best for women on long treks
• Too big for most travelers

The Osprey’s Ariel Plus 60 may be the best backpack for you if:

If you are looking for a heavy-duty Osprey women’s backpack that is durable enough to take long journeys across rough terrain, then this is the perfect bag for you. If you only plan to go on hiking trips for a few days, or travel by plane and train frequently, then consider one of the Auras instead.

Essentially, the Aura is better for loads under 30 pounds, and the Ariel for heavier ones. If you know how much weight you plan to carry, let that be the determining factor when deciding between these packs.

I was super impressed by this bag and specifically how well it maintained its comfort and weight distribution for a bigger pack than the other Osprey bags they tested. I found the straps and hip belts easily adjustable for different sizes and shapes too. I also found the bag to have a strong and durable feel.

Best Travel Bag with Wheels –  Osprey Fairview 65 Wheeled Travel Pack

Designed for the savvy traveler, Osprey’s Fairview 65 Wheeled Travel Pack is pretty much one of the best backpacks with wheels out there.

The padded hip-belt and shoulder harness stow away for easy transport. It can clip on to the wheeled range for easy transport. It even has an inside zipped compartment – perfect for smelly hiking boots!

I’ve been using this pack on and off for two years and can comfortably say that it fits a shocking amount of stuff, but it’s not comfortable to wear when the load is super heavy.

This is one of the best backpacks for travel if you have a ton of valuables, but it’s not good for hiking!

• Carry On Size
• Not a trekking backpack
• Not comfortable with heavy loads

The Osprey Fairview 65 Wheeled Travel Pack may be the best bag for you if:

If you want a women’s travel backpack with wheels, then this is the pack for you. The backpack feature is great for dirt roads, cobblestone, stairs, and other situations where you can’t wheel it, but it’s not comfortable to wear for long periods. Get this backpack if you plan to primarily wheel it around.

I loved the versatility of this bag and how it could function just as well as a suitcase and a backpack. I felt there was very little compromise when using the pack in either setup and the wheels didn’t add too much weight. I also loved how high quality the wheels in particular felt but also the fact that you can buy replacements when needed.

This is an awesome, small hiking backpack. It’s a high-quality and durable pack made by one of our favorite brands, Patagonia. It’s a great go-to backpack for your everyday life as well, as it’s suitable for short-time travel and urban areas.

It is custom-tailored in both size and fit for a woman’s torso. Like a school backpack, it has a second zippered pocket for smaller items and accessories, a front stash pocket for small items, and the main compartment for your things.

It’s ultra-soft yet highly breathable. This is a small travel backpack ideal for shorter trips. Its internal pocket secures a laptop so it makes for a great city bag as well – I loved taking it around Bangkok! Another great feature is the daisy chain loops that allow you to attach climbing gear or a yoga mat.

• Versatile for normal use or hiking
• Perfect for organization
• Uses recycled materials
• Only for the minimalist traveler
• Sport look may not appeal to some
• No waist strap

Is the Patagonia Refugio for me?

This ladies’ small backpack is perfect for everyday use. Whether you want to hit the trails in the rain or bike to your local coffee shop with your laptop, this backpack is an awesome choice!

I loved this bag as a day pack and loved the combination of its compact size and surprisingly spacious interior. I also felt this bag is uniquely suited for petite women – something I haven’t seen in the day pack market before!

This lightweight women’s rucksack was specifically designed for multi-sport with a running-vest-inspired harness, providing elevated efficiency and versatility for fast movement across any landscape.

20 litres is enough to carry your essentials, snacks and water for day trips or even overnight trips but if you’re planning on backpacking through Europe for three months, I’d recommend getting something with a bit more space.

This is one of the lightest hiking backpacks on the market. While this is awesome, I wanted to know what we are sacrificing for weight. After testing this pack, I concluded that its lightweight fibre materials are durable and will last for years, just not as long as other more heavy-duty Osprey packs.

If in doubt, Osprey offers the “All Mighty Guarantee” lifetime warranty to indemnify against defects.

• Extremely Lightweight
• Perfect for Thru-hikes and minimalists
• Osprey Lifetime Warranty
• Limited space for longer trips
• Made for hiking versus travel
• Limited colour options

The Tempest Velocity 20 may be the best for you if:

Its super lightweight, versatile and flexible build with functional compartments make it perfect for hiking, biking or off-the-beaten-path adventures. 

With a snug fit to your body, comfy straps and a hip support belt you’ll instantly feel bonded to the Velocity 20, enjoying freedom of movement without feeling weighed down. With more pockets than a magician, you’ll have easy access to snacks, sunscreen and your phone to grab those Insta pics while on the move. 

So If you’re looking for a pack to take everything but the kitchen sink I’d recommend one of Osprey’s larger relatives. However, if you need a lightweight pack with enough space to store your essentials and is perfect for day trips the Tempest Velocity 20 is your ideal match.

Best Camera Backpack –  WANDRD PRVKE

For those who want a backpack that can do a little bit of everything, is durable and looks damn good in the process, the WANDRD PRVKE is an excellent investment. Ranging from 21-41 liters, this backpack can hold quite a bit, though isn’t as large as we’d like for travel.

Thanks to its robust weather-resistant design, your belongings will be safe. Add in some customizable straps, plenty of pockets, and a sick design, and you have yourself a versatile travel backpack. It’s not a backpack specifically made for women, so the fit might not be the best.

It is stylish and functional enough for the streets, but its padding and additional straps make it comfortable enough for the trails.

• Awesome camera backpack
• Waterproof and durable
• Organization galore
• Too small for one bag travel
• Not women-specific
• Not the best option if you don’t have camera gear

The Wandrd PRVKE may be the best for you if:

If you are traveling with camera gear, then this is one of the best packs for you. However, if photography isn’t one of your priorities on your travel, then check out one of the other travel backpacks for women above.

Again, our photographers on the team just fell in love with this bag and for many of them it became their go-to day pack… including me! The system of pockets, separators and cubes on the inside of the bag is in a word, revolutionary! I love how I can keep my camera gear in a cube at the bottom which is accessible from the side door whilst keeping all my other gear in the expandable roll top section above. The material is also super water resistant too so great for the outdoors.

A lot of practical, travel gear tends to be a bit on the ugly side. Indeed the general consensus is “comfort before style” when it comes to most travel gear whether it be backpacks, jackets or shoes but today I am here to tell you that it does not need to be this way.

The Explorer by MAHI Leather is a stylish, cool, and pretty travel backpack for those ladies who want to look the part whilst having an adventure. It’s made from soft leather (which smells lovely) and fastens with a mixture of zips and buckles. It’s a great backpack for airport runs, hitting the beach, market, and of course nights on the tiles.

It’s not ideal as a hiking backpack but could certainly work for day hikes in fine weather when no special gear is required. I did feel the comfort of the shoulder straps was slightly compromised for the sake of looks. But as it’s on the smaller side it probably wasn’t going to be used for packing heaps of gear anyway.

• High quality leather
• Looks gorgeous
• Not a hiking pack
• Limited storage
• Not fully water proof

Best Laptop Backpack –  Tortuga 40L Travel Pack

This one is pretty obvious – the Tortuga Travel Backpack is great for…. laptops! But seriously, if you are looking for a  sturdy pack to carry your laptop around  – look no further, this bad boy is as good as it gets.

Tortuga put a lot of time and effort into the laptop-features of this backpack, all of which are designed specifically to keep your gear safe, organized, and accessible.

The design and features of this backpack make it perfect for air travel. Whether it’s the sleek laptop sleeve, the easy to lock zippers, the luggage handle pass-through or the hideaway shoulder straps – this bag thrives in airports.

• Perfect for laptops
• Excellent organization
• Feature-rich
• Only for the techie traveler

Is the Tortuga Travel Pack for me?

If you are looking for a travel backpack then the Tortuga 40L is a great choice for you.

Most of our team are digital nomads and they loved how this bag really gave them confidence when it came to keeping their laptop and other expensive gear save. Two of the main reasons for that were the lockable zips that made sure everything was secure and on top of that the durable and waterproof materials on the exterior.

The Nomatic Travel Pack is another great offering from this brand! While not designed just for us, it is still one of the best small backpacks for women and wears pretty comfortably.

This 20-liter daypack can be expanded to 30 liters, making it extremely adaptable for travel… if you travel light. An internal zip-shut mesh divider means you can keep clean and dirty clothing separate, and there are a compression packing cube and separate shoe compartment incorporated.

If that wasn’t enough, the bag also contains a sleeve for a laptop of up to 15” which is TSA approved as it lays flat, hidden pockets, and a pocket with RFID-blocking technology for the protection of your electronic data!

• Internal divider
• RFID-blocking pocket
• Weight of 1.9 kg

Is the Nomatic Travel Pack for me?

The 20+10 liter Nomatic Travel Pack is a great alternative to the 40-liter Nomatic travel bag I’ve reviewed. This pack has a wealth of features for such a small space. If you don’t need a pack quite as big as the Nomatic travel bag, then this is an excellent choice.

I love how this bag expanded and they felt it really gave them options when travelling. Somehow was still so compact despite the fact that it can expand to a really decent size. Rather than carrying a larger 30L bag, they felt the fact they could just expand when needed was a real bonus.

Now, you  could spend a fat chunk of $$$ on the WRONG present for someone. Wrong size hiking boots, wrong fit backpack, wrong shape sleeping bag… As any adventurer will tell you, gear is a personal choice.

So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card!  REI is The Broke Backpacker’s retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. And then you won’t have to keep the receipt. 😉

When selecting the best backpack for females there are a few things you should consider, including size and capacity, features, and price. This is all, of course, completely subjective and depends on the type of travel you will be engaging in.

Capacity and Overall Size

• Choose the size according to your travel gear
• 40-50L are manageable, count as carry on and it’s an overall best choice
• 60+L are great for camping, hiking and long travels

Note: Ladies backpacks are often smaller than the counterpart men’s version. For example, a men’s version can be 44 liters while the women’s is 40 liters. Women’s packs are also a bit narrower to better fit a smaller frame. You may be trading-off fit for capacity.

Torso Size and Length

Backpacks for travel have a torso measurement to help you find one that will have the most comfortable fit. Most women’s torsos will be between 14-18 inches, however, you should measure your torso and try a few packs on (with weight) to make sure.

If you’re a taller woman, then maybe a uni-sex backpack will fit you better. Again, the trick is to measure and try packs in-store.

Shoulder Strap Shape and Hip Belt

In women-specific backpacks, the shoulder straps are often shaped/curved and the sternum strap is redesigned to better fit female chests. The shoulder straps are often set a little closer together since women tend to have narrow shoulders and neck.

The hip belt should be slightly narrower than the male’s version to distribute the weight equally across your hips. They can also have extra padding for a bit more comfort.

Don’t underestimate the importance of a comfortable hip belt. This is what helps take weight off of your shoulder so you can walk, hike, and climb comfortably, even with 35+ pounds.

Materials and Durability

Keep in mind, your travel bag will be exposed to rain, puddles or leaks at some point. There’s nothing worse than opening the bag to find your clothes soaked or your electronics damaged. The best backpacks are made from strong, durable, stretchy, waterproof material.

Look out for a material that will last for years – the last thing you want is a ripped bag halfway through your travels.

To test these packs, I laid my hands on each of them and took them out for a test drive on many different trips in various locations and over a decent period of time to get to know the product properly.

Packability

A backpack is designed to carry your stuff, so well we tested just that! Top points were awarded for how packable each backpack is in practical use. Any decent carry on bag also needs to make sure it maximises the space and facilitates effective packing and we tested this out by doing exactly what you normally do with a bag … pack and unpack the thing!

On top of that, I also looked at whether the bag was actually easy to pack and unpack. Was it awkward to retrieve your gear, or were things at hand when you needed them?

Weight and Comfort of Carrying

Everyone knows the nightmare of getting stuck with a super heavy backpack on a trip. It’s not fun! So I judged these bags hard on whether they were heavy or awkward because ain’t nobody got time for either of those!

I also looked at whether a bag was comfortable to carry. Were the straps thin and digging into your shoulders, or were they like resting your worldly goods on two pillows from heaven?

As such, I awarded full marks for packs that minimise weight and maximum carry comfort.

Functionality

In order to test out how well a pack fulfilled its primary purpose, ya know, holding shiz, by erm … using it for exactly that! Science amirite?!

So basically, if it was for carry-on, then I carried it the f**k on right! In this case, being Women’s backpacks, well, we got hold of a whole heap of women and made them wear the bags!! Well, something like that!

You get the idea right? 

We all like to look good and not like absolute nerds when we’re out and about exploring the world. I mean, who knows if you’re going to meet someone fit on the trails, you’ve got to look your best! Well, I mean, my effort pretty much ends here but if I can get a cool-looking bag that functions well then I’m buzzin’!

As such I also awarded points for how sexy a pack looks. 

Durability and Weatherproofing

Ideally, in order to really test out how durable a backpack is we would drop it from a plane and then run over it. Unfortunately, our budget doesn’t quite cover that, so we’ve had to resort to old-school tactics!

Instead, we simply inspected the materials used and the build quality of the packs paying attention to things like the seam sewing, the traction of the zips, and other pressure points that might be more likely to break.  

Of course, testing out how waterproof a pack is simply a case of pouring a litre of water over it – any packs caught leaking, were banished to the depths of hell never to be seen again!

Still have some questions? No problem! I listed and answered the most commonly asked questions about women’s travel packs below. Here’s what people usually want to know:

What makes travel backpacks for women different from other backpacks?

Women’s torsos are a bit shorter. Hence why travel backpacks for women are built slightly more narrow and not as long. The hip belts are also designed differently so it fits more comfortably.

What is the most comfortable travel backpack?

The Osprey Tempest 40 Pack is one of the most comfortable travel backpacks. It’s made for long hiking trips, which is why fit, size, weight, and durability are perfectly balanced.

Should I get a unisex travel backpack?

If the dimensions fit your back comfortbaly and you prefer a more balanced design, a unisex backpack is a great option. In that case, I’d recommend the AER Travel Pack 3 .

What is the most fashionable backpack for women?

Style always depends on personal preferences, but I love the design of the Nomatic 30L Travel Bag best!

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The best women’s travel backpack for you will not only depend on your travel style but on where you plan to go at any given time. If you read the section above this one, you should be well prepared and ready to but your backpack.

Ultimately, you need to consider what your trip consists of, without stressing over it, of course! It’s difficult to find a pack that is perfect 100% of the time , but with a little bit of research, you’ll quickly figure out which backpack is best for you.

This guide covered the best backpacks for urban travel, the best hiking backpacks for women, the best women-specific bags altogether, and a few that are versatile enough for urban travel and the trails.

Out of all the best travel backpacks for women, I hope you’ve found one perfect for you!

Buy Us a Coffee !

A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!

You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee . If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂

Nic Hilditch-Short

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I’m so glad I stumbled upon this post! As a frequent traveler, I’ve been struggling to find the perfect backpack for my adventures. The quality and variety of the picks here are impressive, and I appreciate the detailed descriptions of each bag. I’ll definitely be checking out some of these options for my next trip! ??

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• Travel Products
• Luggage + Bags
• Backpacks, Totes + Small Bags

The 14 Most Stylish Travel Backpacks of 2024

If fashionable and practical is what you’re after, we’ve got you covered with these bags.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Tips for Buying

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

We’ve all seen them before: those seemingly ethereal frequent flyers that move through the airport without a slick of anxiety or dishevelment. You’d never know they’re racing to get to their gate on time or have been traveling for the past 24 hours. While we haven’t figured out exactly how to look (or feel) that composed while on the go, we do find that a reliable, fashion-forward travel backpack or pink luggage pieces in our ability to move through the airport with ease (and sometimes even grace).

Travel backpacks hold just as much as a large tote bag or crossbody duffel, but it’s so much more comfortable to sling a backpack onto your back than it is to lug around a heavy duffel. Backpacks also, of course, allow you to go hands-free while staying organized and comfy while on the go.

If you’ve been thinking about upgrading to a travel backpack but want something that’s both stylish and practical, we’ve got you covered. The following backpacks include picks we personally tested and rated highly, as well as others we found through additional research.

Best Overall

Everlane renew transit backpack.

• Design 4.6 /5
• Capacity 4.2 /5
• Durability 4 /5
• Comfort 4.6 /5

This option holds a lot of gear but doesn’t look bulky.

The magnetic closure can come undone when picking up and putting on the bag.

There’s a lot to love about Everlane’s The ReNew Transit Backpack. During the testing process, we found that it can hold a ton of gear but even when stuffed full, it doesn’t look bulky. The recycled polyester material is made from post-consumer plastic, which is awesome if you’re looking for a sustainable backpack , but it’s also highly water-resistant and durable so you won’t have to worry about your laptop or other gear getting wet if you’re caught in the rain while traveling. It also features a handful of great organizational add-ons including two water bottle pockets, an exterior laptop sleeve, zippered pockets, and even a luggage sleeve on the back that’ll allow you to attach it to your rolling luggage as needed. The only thing we didn’t love was that this backpack uses a series of hidden magnets to close the top part of the bag; this gives the bag its elegant shape but it also can easily come undone when you’re lifting the bag by the top handle. It’s not a big deal as inner zippers are keeping your gear in place but you’ll have to adjust the magnetic closure before slinging it onto your back.

The Details: 17.5 x 7.25 x 12 inches | 27 liters | Recycled polyester

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Best Roll-top

Mifland rucksack.

This durable leather roll-top bag will only get better with age.

The material makes it a bit heavy compared to other options.

Sometimes you need a little extra space to squeeze in those last-minute souvenirs — and that’s why a roll-top bag is a must-have. The Mifland Rolltop Rucksack allows you to adjust the size of your bag based on how much gear you need to squeeze in it, and it expands up to four inches larger than its standard size as needed. We also really like that this bag is made from a high-quality leather material that feels incredibly durable — it looks and feels like it can last for years, even with heavy use. Note that this bag is available in a whole lineup of different colorways and designs which allows you to select something that’ll match the rest of your luggage or style preferences. The most important thing to note about this roll-top backpack is that, while the leather is incredibly durable and long-lasting, it’s pretty heavy compared to other bags on our list, so it might not be the best option if you prefer to travel as lightweight as possible.

The Details: 16-22 x 12 x 6 inches | Leather

Best Organization

Mz wallace metro utility backpack.

Its abundance of inside and outside zippered pockets makes it easy to store documents and in-flight essentials.

The straps are a bit long — even when shortened.

The MZ Wallace Black Metro Utility Backpack is going to be your best bet if you want something that’ll ensure all your documents and gear stay organized rather than pooling at the bottom of your bag. It’s crafted with recycled nylon and sustainably sourced leather and includes an abundance of pockets and pouches on the interior and exterior of the bag so you’ll have a designated spot for every item (from your passport to your water bottle). We also really like that this bag has a generously sized top handle, in addition to the regular backpack straps, which allows you to carry it as a duffel bag as needed. The only thing to keep in mind is that the straps are a bit long (even when shortened) and might not fit very well on more petite travelers.

The Details: 12.20 x 5.50 x 16.50 inches | Nylon, leather

Best Waterproof

Caraa stratus large backpack.

This option is lightweight and highly durable.

It’s a bit large and can look oversized on more petite travelers.

The Caraa Stratus Large bag is sort of a wunderkind; it’s stunning and highly stylish while also being relatively budget-friendly. The nylon material is incredibly lightweight so you can stuff it with gear without feeling weighed down too much. The best part? It’s totally waterproof without, you know, looking totally waterproof. This bag can easily function as a carry-on at the airport but the fashion-forward aesthetic means you can wear it in the city as well. We also love that it has a total of twelve pockets to help you stay organized while on the go and even includes space for a 17-inch laptop. We really like the capacity but, of course, it means this bag is a bit bulky compared to other travel backpacks. Keep in mind that it might look a bit oversized on people who have smaller frames.

The Details: 18 x 12 x 7.5 inches | 26 liters | Nylon

Best Anti-theft

Pacsafe anti-theft backpack.

This bag offers peace of mind but doesn’t sacrifice style.

There is no designated laptop pocket.

The Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45 Anti-theft Carry-on Travel Backpack was made for travelers hopping from hostel to hostel or those in need of something reliable to offer peace of mind. We really like this option because it doesn’t look like one of those glaringly obvious anti-theft numbers of yesteryear. During the testing process, we found that this bag is truly difficult to cut with a knife — but if you do run into a situation like this, the knife marks will probably show on your bag (still, it beats having your gear stolen and your bag ruined). We also really like that this bag is super lightweight and doesn’t feel heavy even when it’s packed with gear. Keep in mind that although it’s excellent at preventing theft, this bag falls short when it comes to organization. There are very few pouches and there’s no designated laptop pocket at all.

The Details: 21.65 x 13.78 x 8.66 inches | 45 liters | Lightweight steel mesh

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph

Best Foldable

Paravel fold-up backpack.

This bag offers a clever design at a budget-friendly price point.

There isn’t much structure so heavy items may distend the bottom of the bag.

Here’s a not-so-secret travel hack to keep in mind: no matter how light you think you pack, always bring a folding, packable bag with you. You never know when you’ll need the extra space for souvenirs or clothing that won’t fit into your compression cubes the night before your flight home. The Paravel Fold-up Backpack is our favorite folding option that we’ve tested. It packs down to 6 x 6.5 x 2.5 inches, but when unfolded, turns into a full-sized (and surprisingly chic-looking) travel backpack that can function as a regular carry-on or emergency bonus bag. It’s super lightweight and comfortable to wear and can hold a surprising amount of stuff without looking bulky. We brought it to the beach and it easily held a Kindle, a huge beach towel, a 20-ounce water bottle, and day-to-day essentials. However, because it doesn’t have a ton of structure, when you pack heavier items like a laptop, they protrude at the bottom of the bag (although this doesn’t affect comfort).

The Details: 13 x 16 x 9 inches | 8 liters | Nylon

Dagne Dover Small Dakota Neoprene Backpack

Despite the small size, it offers ample pockets and pouches that make it easy to stay organized.

The material isn’t the most sophisticated.

Looking for a durable backpack that holds the essentials without totally replacing your carry-on? This miniature bag by Dagne Dover was designed — like many of the brand's best bags — with optimal storage and thoughtfully designed pockets and pouches so you can stay organized without requiring a full-sized backpack. We love that it’s lightweight and durable; it’s designed to last a lifetime and during the testing process we definitely noticed how high-quality the material looks and feels. However, depending on your preferences, neoprene may not feel as sophisticated as, say, leather or canvas if wearing it in a more professional setting. You’ll also want to note that this bag is available in a variety of sizes (small, medium , and large ) if you like the style but require more space in your backpack.

The Details: 9.5 x 5 x 13 inches | 8 liters | Neoprene

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Tamara Staples

Best Carry-on Replacement

Cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack.

• Capacity 5 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Durability 5 /5
• Comfort 5 /5

This clever option was designed to mimic a suitcase.

The bag is unstructured and requires strategic packing to fill it out.

Replacing carry-on luggage with a backpack isn’t exactly the most fruitful task; it usually ends up meaning that you have to unpack your entire backpack to access your clothing and essentials once you arrive at your destination. The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack changes all that for the better and makes it easy for just about anyone to travel light thanks to the clever zip-around design that mimics a rolling suitcase. We loved this design during the testing process and found it was incredibly practical both while at the hotel and while at the airport as well. You can easily see everything you’ve packed (like a suitcase) and don’t have to totally unpack just to grab a fresh pair of socks or to dig out your toiletries. Keep in mind that this bag is made of lightweight polyester and as such it’s relatively unstructured. This means you have to be strategic when you pack so the bag doesn’t end up looking lumpy.

The Details: 20 x 12 x 8 inches | 35 liters | Polyester

Best Customizable

Stoney clover classic backpack.

There are a ton of colors and additional patches to truly make this your own.

It might be too small for some travelers' needs.

There’s something particularly sophisticated about a bespoke piece of luggage — whether it’s a monogrammed passport holder or customized backpack. The Stoney Clover Lane Classic Backpack is our top pick if you’re looking for the latter. It’s available in a whole spectrum of beautiful colors that range from classic black and navy to more fun hues like flamingo pink and banana yellow. Stoney Clover also allows you to buy additional patches to further customize your backpack. Patches include letters and numbers if you’re looking to monogram — but also include cheeky embroideries like emojis and seasonal characters. It’s also worth noting that this bag is made from durable and lightweight nylon so it’s just as comfortable as it is cute. The only downside is that this bag is only available in one size and it might be too small if you want something to hold bigger electronics.

The Details: 6.25 x 13.5 x 5.25 inches | Nylon

Best Leather

Cuyana leather backpack.

Stylish yet timeless; this bag will be fashionable for decades.

It doesn't zip closed so it's not the most secure for crowded areas.

You can think of the Cuyana Leather Backpack as the backpack for those who don’t wear backpacks. It’s designed in a cool and unexpected silhouette that looks much more like a sophisticated European boutique find than a travel backpack. It’s also available in both 13- and 16-inch sizes which is great for those who tend to pack a little extra or like the additional space for those last-minute souvenir purchases. The elegant leather design is supple but still very durable and we love that it includes both regular backpack straps and a long top handle. It’s a bit expensive compared to other leather backpacks but the sophisticated style and durable design make it worth it in our books.

The Details: 13.3 x 9.6 x 7.2 inches (13-inch); 15.1 x 11 x 7 inches (16-inch) | Leather

Lo & Sons Backpack

This option is not bulky but can fit a lot without looking lumpy.

The material doesn’t feel durable enough for rugged travel.

The Beacon by Lo & Sons is both stylish and practical — and we found that despite its slim design, it actually held a lot of gear without looking lumpy or bulky. It’s crafted from an elegant leather material and a thick gold zipper that looks and feels a lot more expensive than it is. We also loved the number of pockets and pouches (including an interior water bottle pouch and even an exterior pouch that fits a smartphone). During the testing process, we noticed that this bag can hold up against inclement weather quite well but it didn’t feel durable enough to purposefully expose the bag to the elements or take it on more rugged trips. That said, if you tend to favor city-focused travel, this bag is more than enough to withstand the rigor of light rain or being thrown under the seat on the airplane.

The Details: 10.5 x 14 x 4.5 inches | 10.8 liters | Leather

Best Convertible

Senreve maestra bag.

This multi-purpose option doubles as a crossbody.

It’s on the pricey side compared to similar leather backpacks.

Some people just don’t want or need a full-time backpack — and that’s where the Senreve Maestra comes in. This stunning leather bag features convertible straps that can be positioned like a backpack or used like a crossbody bag as well as a satchel and even a tote bag, giving you plenty of options depending on your itinerary or particular preferences. It’s available in a ton of beautiful colorways and textures like pebbled leather and textured dragon leather . It’s also available in a smaller midi option that’s just as versatile but better suited for those who travel light. We love that despite its elegant aesthetic, this option is actually scratch- and water-resistant so it can withstand heavy travel. It can also fit up to a 15-inch laptop while the midi fits an 11-inch laptop. It is a little pricey compared to other options, but it’s technically four bags in one when you think about it.

The Details: 12.25 x 10.25 x 6.75 inches | Leather

Best Drawstring

Nike brasilia training gymsack.

It’s lightweight and offers excellent value without sacrificing style.

You cannot adjust the strap length.

Looking for a casual drawstring bag that won’t weigh you down while on the go? The Nike Brasilia is no-frills and ultra lightweight yet still stylish and cool. It works just as well as an impromptu travel bag as it does a gym bag which makes it a great option for those who like to work out while traveling. The drawstring backpack is simple with one classic Nike “swoosh” in the middle — which makes it ideal for pairing with athleisure as well as casual city clothing. It’s available in five cool colorways and features convenient side pockets for storing your smaller items like your hotel keycard and credit cards. The only thing we don’t love about this option is that you can’t adjust the strap length, but that’s a common drawback when it comes to drawstring bags.

The Details: 18 liters | Polyester

Best Tech-enabled

Bee & kin the midi nomad backpack.

• Design 4.5 /5
• Comfort 4.5 /5
• Durability 4.8 /5
• Value 4.8 /5

This elegant backpack makes charging on the go easy.

The straps don’t have very much padding.

The Bee & Kin Midi Nomad Backpack is designed with digital nomads in mind; it’s basically a contemporary briefcase disguised as a stylish backpack. It’s built with space for a wireless charging pack ( sold separately ) that allows you to charge up your phone while it’s packed away in your backpack. It also has a padded interior pouch designed to keep your laptop from moving around while in transit and can comfortably fit laptops up to 13 inches. During the testing process, we noticed that the backpack is surprisingly lightweight despite the fact that it’s made of leather and we really liked the compact size (although there’s also a larger size for those with more gear to carry or a larger laptop). Keep in mind that the straps are not very well-padded, though this shouldn’t be an issue as long as you’re not packing the bag too heavily.

The Details: 11.6 x 5.5 x 13 inches | Leather

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Tips for Buying a Stylish Travel Backpack

Consider your personal style.

It doesn’t matter how functional or well-priced a backpack is, you should only buy something that’ll suit your personal style or you’ll run the risk of not using it as frequently as you otherwise would. Be sure to choose a bag that fits with the rest of your wardrobe — something you’ll feel comfortable and proud using in the airport and trekking through city streets around the world.

Prioritize functional features

You’ll also want to make sure you prioritize functional features that’ll make your travel days easier. Opt for a backpack that has enough pockets to keep things like your passport, travel documents, and phone organized. It’s also worth considering looking for a padded laptop pouch if you tend to bring your laptop or tablet with you while traveling. Add-ons like an interior water bottle pouch or exterior zippered pockets will also make streamlining and organizing your travel gear easier.

There are a few materials that make good contenders for a backpack. You’ll want something durable and lightweight, which is why leather, nylon, and polyester are great options. Keep in mind that leather is highly durable and long-lasting but can be a bit on the heavy side. Nylon and polyester, on the other hand, tend to be weather-resistant and very lightweight but can sometimes lack structure.

The best-sized backpack for travel really depends on how you plan on using your backpack on the ground. Do you anticipate using it as a replacement carry-on? If so, you’ll want something large enough to fit a couple of outfits with additional space for things like your laptop and in-flight essentials. If you plan on using it as a personal item, you’ll have to opt for something smaller. Most airlines accept a maximum size of 18 x 14 x 8 inches for a personal item whereas a carry-on item is closer to 22 x 14 x 9 inches.

You can absolutely bring a backpack and a purse on the plane as your carry-on and personal item. If you plan on bringing a wheeled carry-on and want to bring a backpack and purse as well, you’ll have to make sure your purse can fit inside of one of your other bags just in case you run into any issues while boarding the plane, as you’re technically only allowed two items.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this article, T+L contributor Kaitlyn McInnis used her experience as a travel writer and former lifestyle editor to curate a list of the best and most stylish travel backpacks for trips and travelers of all types.

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The 9 Best Mini Backpacks of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Keep your hands free and valuables handy with our top picks

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Final Verdict

How We Tested

Other mini backpacks we tested.

• What to Look For

Frequently Asked Questions

Why trust tripsavvy.

Tripsavvy / Tamara Staples

Mini backpacks can be the niche fashion accessory you need to complete your outfit. They can also serve a specific purpose at home and on your travels. Heading out on a sightseeing tour and need a way to carry the essentials without being weighed down by a larger backpack? Want to keep your phone, e-reader, and maybe a snack or two handy on the plane without having to unload your carry-on from the overhead bin every time you need something? These are just two scenarios where a mini backpack is a perfect solution. 

When choosing yours, things to look for include the right balance between compact size and useful capacity, pockets and pouches to keep your belongings organized, adjustable straps that fit comfortably, and, of course, the right colors and materials to go with the rest of your wardrobe. To help you narrow down the many options out there, our travel experts tested 21 mini backpack brands in the laboratory and in real life. We scored each for design, capacity, comfort, durability, and value.

Best Overall

Paravel mini fold-up backpack.

Packs down for transport

Deceptively spacious

Customizable

Receiving perfect scores across the board from both of our testers, Paravel’s Mini Fold-Up Backpack features water-resistant Negative Nylon (recycling up to 10 plastic bottles per bag). The material is extra durable, resulting in zero signs of wear and tear at the end of our test period. It’s also ultra-lightweight, a factor that combined with the backpack’s super soft straps to make it very comfortable to wear—even on bare skin. We loved the capacity and were able to fit everything on our list with space to spare. 

We also loved that despite its small size, the backpack offers a secret interior pocket (great for keeping valuables such as keys or your wallet within easy reach) and an exterior pocket that’s roomy enough for a large-model cell phone. One of our favorite features was that the backpack folds flat and zips together into a tiny pouch, making it ideal for packing into a larger bag for “just in case.” It’s the ideal travel companion, whether you’re attending an event across town or packing for your next vacation. 

Finally, there are six bold colors, including Safari Green, Scuba Navy, and Canyon Yellow. And, with optional monogramming available in a choice of more than 10 complementary colors, personalizing your purchase couldn’t be easier. 

Dimensions: 10 x 12 x 6 inches | Weight: 0.44 pounds | Materials: Recycled nylon

Best Overall, Runner-Up

Aotian mini nylon backpack.

Lots of storage

Comfortable for extended wear

Some may prefer a more luxurious fabric

Made of sturdy nylon with a polyester lining, the AOTIAN Mini Backpack is an ideal everyday choice with padded straps that are easy to adjust, even on the go. We loved the oversized, smooth-pulling zippers and the backpack’s surprisingly large capacity. We could fit everything on our list with space to spare for at least a few extra shirts or a water bottle —while tablets or iPads of up to 9.7 inches are easily compatible. 

The multiple zippered and non-zippered interior and exterior pockets were a particular highlight for us, making organization simple and keeping essentials within easy reach. We especially loved the rear zippered pocket, which is excellent for concealing valuables, and the elasticated side pockets for your water bottle or umbrella. After the test period, the backpack showed no signs of wear and tear. It comes in six colors, from Deep Blue to Hot Pink, to suit every style preference. 

Dimensions: 9.4 x 12 x 4 inches | Weight: 0.68 pounds | Materials: Nylon and polyester

Best Budget

Madison & dakota canvas mini backpack.

Minimalist style

Easily adjustable fit

Choice of beautiful colors 

No interior organization

Retailing for approximately a fifth of the price of our overall winner, the Madison & Dakota Mini Backpack offers a simple yet stylish and functional design. It features strong polyester with a padded back panel and padded straps. We found it comfortable and simple to adjust the fit, although the backpack rode a little too high for our liking. Other features include top carry handles and easy-grip dual zippers. 

The backpack is small yet mighty, with plenty of storage space. We fit everything on our list with ease. The only drawback is the main compartment is unstructured, which makes it difficult to keep things organized. A roomy front pocket was the backpack’s saving grace in this respect. Finally, we really liked the bag’s aesthetic, especially given its rock-bottom price. There are nine rustic shades, including Peach, Sangria, Almond, and Kale, all with zippers and a diamond-shaped lash tab in contrasting leather.

Dimensions: 4 x 10 x 13.5 inches | Weight: 0.66 pounds | Materials: Polyester

Best for Hikes

The north face borealis mini backpack.

Durable, water-resistant material

Superb interior and exterior organization

Comfortable when packed full

Perhaps a little too structured for casual use

The ideal companion for days out on the trail, the Borealis Mini Backpack from The North Face fits well and is comfortable even when fully loaded, thanks to easily adjustable padded straps and a padded back panel lined with breathable, sweat-wicking mesh. It features recycled ripstop nylon and polyester, with a non-PFC DWR finish that helps to protect your belongings if you get caught in the rain. The backpack survived our test period without visible wear and tear. 

We loved the organization options, which include a zippered interior mesh pocket, a spacious front zippered pocket, external water bottle holders, and a quick-draw smartphone pocket. You can also use the adjustable front bungee system to attach larger items—an extra layer, perhaps, or a hydration system. With a place for everything, we never had to waste time rummaging around for what we needed. The backpack has attractive two-tone colorways, including Lunar Slate/Lime Cream and Black Heather/Burnt Coral. 

Dimensions: 8.65 x 4.15 x 13.5 inches | Weight: 0.75 pounds | Materials: Recycled ripstop nylon and polyester with DWR finish 

Best for Travel

Dakine mini backpack.

Highly adjustable

Padded sleeve for tablet

No water bottle holder

The Dakine 365 Mini 12L Backpack is an excellent low-volume, unisex choice made from Bluesign-approved recycled polyester and nylon. It features a water-repellent finish and is durable enough to look brand new at the end of our test period. We liked that the lightly padded shoulder straps can be made both super long and very short for added comfort—so much so that we barely noticed the backpack even after wearing it for extended periods. 

We also appreciated the thoughtful organization options. These include a dedicated tablet sleeve in the main compartment (which features a padded bottom panel for added protection), a zippered front compartment for smaller essentials, and a small, concealed zippered pocket on the back of the backpack. The overall capacity was impressive—we could fit multiple shirts, a water bottle, a phone, a wallet, keys, sanitizer, and more. Finally, colorways range from solid to two-tone and patterned, with reflective accents for nighttime visibility. 

Dimensions: 15 x 11 x 7 inches | Weight: 0.61 pounds | Materials: Recycled nylon and polyester

Best for Commutes

Topo designs rover pack mini backpack.

Simultaneously small yet spacious

Comfy, lightweight fit

Stylish design and color choices

No small interior pocket

Available in professional Black or Cocoa and several more eye-catching colorways (think Bone White/Coral or Sage), the Rover Pack Mini from Topo Designs is our favorite pick for commuters. We love the water-resistant, recycled nylon—ideal for bad weather days—with a cinch-top closure that helps to keep everything inside dry. It’s super adjustable in terms of its compression straps, buckle closures, and shoulder straps, with sturdy buckles and zippers that are both high quality and easy to operate. 

We found the padded straps and adjustable fit made it comfortable to wear for hours on end. It’s also a very versatile choice: small enough for when you just want to carry the essentials, but also with plenty of space for longer days. The backpack’s compactness made it easy to wear on the subway or bus without impacting other commuters. Regarding organization, it boasts a zippered front pocket and a top flap pocket for smaller items, side slip pockets, and an integrated tablet sleeve in the main compartment. 

Dimensions: 13.5 x 8.5 x 3.75 inches | Weight: Not published | Materials: Recycled nylon

Best Classic

Bellroy classic backpack compact.

Thoughtful organization

Dedicated storage for laptops and tablets

Smart design choices boost comfort

Considerable price tag

The Bellroy Classic Backpack Compact is certainly not a budget choice, but its higher price tag is justified by its durable recycled nylon construction (which survived our testing unscathed) and its versatility. After all, it is one of only a very few mini backpacks that can fit a laptop. We loved its intelligent, purpose-built organization features, including padded laptop and tablet sleeves, an internal zippered mesh pocket, and a front zippered pocket with a built-in key clip. There’s even a soft-lined pocket for sunglasses on top. 

Overall, it offered plenty of room for everything on our list. At the same time, it was wonderfully compact and comfortable to carry even when fully loaded, thanks to the contoured, rolled-edge shoulder straps. The padded back panel provides additional lumbar support. You can choose from six stylish colors, including Bronze, Navy, and Ranger Green. Two options (Saltbrush and Limestone) are leather-free, while the others have sustainable leather accents. 

Dimensions: 15.7 x 10.2 x 7 inches | Weight: 1.1 pounds | Materials: Recycled nylon, optional leather accents

Best Anti-Theft

Cheruty backpack purse.

Cute aesthetic

Very capacious

Rear opening affords peace of mind

A little larger than the average mini backpack 

If you’re looking for an option that comes with peace of mind included, the CHERUTY Anti-Theft Mini Backpack is a great pick. Made of water-resistant vegan leather in a rainbow of color choices (from Burgundy to Tan or Blue), its unique main compartment opens at the back to protect it from potential thieves by your body when worn. It’s a very effective tactic, although we did find that it made it slightly less convenient to get things out in a hurry. With adjustable, removable straps, the bag can also be worn as a tote or shoulder purse. 

We found it super comfortable, even without padded straps. It fit nicely on our tester’s back and was so light that it was barely noticeable. It’s also incredibly spacious, with space for a 9.7-inch tablet and everything on our list with room left over. Organization features include two interior slip pockets, a zippered interior pocket, two exterior side pockets, and a front zippered pocket. Overall, the backpack’s functionality, security, and chic style made it well worth the very reasonable cost. 

Dimensions: 12.6 x 5.9 x 12.6 inches | Weight: 1 pound | Materials: PU vegan leather

Best Splurge

Dagne dover small dakota neoprene backpack.

Luxe yet functional aesthetic

Amazingly varied organizational options

Padded comfort for all-day wear

Material is a little too casual to dress up

Dagne Dover’s Small Dakota Neoprene Backpack may cost roughly three times the price of our overall winner, but we feel that it’s made to last and more than justifies its cost by offering the perfect balance of style and substance. The neoprene material is vegan, water-resistant, and hand-washable, with a Repreve lining made from recycled plastic bottles. It stood up impeccably to our durability tests and felt so lightweight that it was barely noticeable even after hours of wear. The straps are easy to adjust and lightly padded. 

Where this backpack particularly excels is in its organization features. The main compartment features an air mesh tablet sleeve, two mesh pockets, and a front panel with three integrated zippered sections perfect for small items (think lip balm or headphones). There are two zippered side pockets, a front pocket with D-ring and elastic loops, and a detachable key leash. The backpack is also much more spacious than it appears, making it incredibly useful. Six colors include Heather Grey, Dark Moss, and Camel. 

Dimensions: 9.5 x 5 x 13 inches | Weight: 1.8 pounds | Materials: Neoprene, recycled plastic fabric

Final Verdict 

Our favorite was the Paravel Mini Fold-Up Backpack , which we loved for its durable lightness, intelligent storage options, and foldable design. If you’re looking for a budget alternative, consider the Madison & Dakota Mini Backpack .

We tested each backpack in our testing lab and in the real world. First, we evaluated how easy it was to fit a list of essentials, including a phone, wallet, and keys. Then, we wore the backpack a minimum of seven times throughout a two-week test period for many activities ranging from running errands to walks around the city. We scored each on a five-point scale for design, capacity, comfort, durability, and value. Overall scores determined our category winners. 

Herschel Supply Co. Classic Mini Backpack : The fit of this pack was good and would accommodate a variety of body shapes (though adjusting the straps for more space is more difficult than tightening them). Plenty of people commented on it, so we'd say that's a win for the style as well. Some drawbacks included minimal internal organization (somewhat expected for this size) and fussy zippers.

Fjallraven Kanken Mini Classic Backpack : Thanks to its unique, boxy shape, the Kanken Mini features a roomy interior plus a clamshell opening for easy packing. Our tester got everything in the bag, though the phone was a tight fit in the front exterior pocket. This main issue was a bit of sticker shock at the price, but the construction quality and materials suggest it will last a good while.

Jansport Half Pint Mini Backpack : We like that Jansport kept it simple—and practical—with this model, making it easy to pair with different outfits. And, while we appreciate the storage division, the small stash pocket on the exterior is not very useful, especially if you live in a place prone to pickpocketing. Still, this is a great value pick for more casual outings.

What to Look For in a Mini Backpack

Before choosing a mini backpack, consider the activity you will most likely use it for. Are you wearing it in the city for casual strolls or dates with friends? If so, the primary concern could be a fashionable aesthetic that complements your style. Do you need it for traveling? An anti-theft design could give you peace of mind while exploring. For commuters, a slim profile that won’t be too bulky on the subway is a plus, as is some level of weatherproofing, whereas hikers may prioritize durability and a little more space for snacks or extra layers. 

Mini backpacks can feature many different materials. Two of the most popular are nylon and polyester, chosen for their blend of lightness and durability. If you’re often out in all weathers, opt for one with a water-repellent coating; or one made of naturally water-resistant material like neoprene or leather. Leather is a top choice for fashion backpacks since it is classically stylish and can easily be dressed up or down. For a more ethical alternative, consider vegan leather. Recycled and responsibly sourced materials also score sustainability points.

The basic premise of a mini backpack is simple: It’s a regular backpack but smaller. However, specific style details can vary quite a bit. Some have removable straps that convert them into a tote or shoulder bag. Others have a standard zippered opening, while others use a roll-top and buckles (or a drawstring and flap top) to protect contents from the elements. Shapes differ, too, from streamlined rectangles to boxy, statement-making squares or classic, curved profiles with functional exterior pockets. Some mini backpacks even open via a zipper at the back to protect your valuables from thieves. 

Pockets and Other Features

Mini backpacks can be super minimalist, with very little organization at all. This unstructured style suits some travelers, allowing them to pack the bag however they wish, but for others, at least a few designated pouches and pockets are preferable. Options to look out for include a zippered front or side pocket to provide easy access to smaller items like your metro card, drop-in side pockets for a water bottle or umbrella, and interior zippered pockets for keeping your valuables secure. If you plan on packing your tablet, a padded electronics sleeve is a bonus. Many people also like the idea of a key leash to prevent unnecessary fumbling at the door.  

A mini backpack is much smaller than a traditional backpack, typically ranging in capacity from 5 to 15 liters. They have space for your phone, wallet, keys, and perhaps an extra layer or make-up items, but not much more. For some people, they’re as much a fashion accessory as a practical purchase; others simply prefer their compact size. This could be because they find regular backpacks too bulky for a petite frame or because they have limited items to carry but prefer the freedom of movement offered by a backpack versus a small purse or tote.

Luggage rules and restrictions vary from one company to the next, so it’s impossible to guarantee how an individual airline will classify your mini backpack. But, more often than not, small backpacks are considered personal items alongside purses, laptop bags, and briefcases. This means you can take them onboard with you for free, in addition to your carry-on luggage . A good rule of thumb is that personal items should fit beneath the seat in front of you. This is especially true on budget airlines which often charge for space in the overhead luggage compartment.

Mini backpacks are great for any situation where you might want to keep essentials handy without carrying much more—for example, on a casual day hike or city sightseeing tour while on vacation, or while running errands or going out for a meal back home. They make a useful addition to a larger carry-on bag when traveling since they can be stowed beneath the seat in front of you or kept on your lap for easy access. They’re also lighter than regular backpacks, making them a good choice for petite people or those with back or shoulder pain. For commuters, they take up less space on crowded transport and streets.

Jessica Macdonald is TripSavvy’s Africa travel expert and a regular contributor of commerce articles relating to adventure and family travel. Having visited more than 50 countries worldwide for everything from scientific research trips to city breaks with friends, she is well versed in the benefits of a great backpack, big or small. This article is supported by the results of real-life and laboratory testing carried out by the TripSavvy team.

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22+ Best Travel Backpacks for Women (Tested & Reviewed)

Written by Becca

Updated on September 13th, 2024

Learn about the best travel backpacks for women in all styles, sizes and prices. Here are the top choices and what you should consider when buying one.

This article may contain affiliate links. We earn a small commissions when you purchase via those links — and it's free for you. It's only us (Becca & Dan) working on this website, so we value your support! Read our privacy policy and learn more about us .

Best Travel Backpacks for Women

Troubadour Ki Backpack

• Away Everywhere Zip Backpack & Front Pocket Backpack

United by Blue (R)evolution 15L Commuter Backpack

Troubadour Momentum Backpack

Quince All-Day Neoprene Backpack

Moment MTW Backpack 17L

• UP Seoul Lifestyle Daypack by Deuter

Small Expandable Knack Pack

Aer Fit Pack 3

Tortuga Laptop Backpack

• Stubble & Co. Roll-Top Mini Backpack
• Mammut Lithium 20 Women’s Hiking Daypack

Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L

Bellroy Transit Backpack Plus

Tom Bihn Techonaut 45

• Cotopaxi All-New Allpa 42L Adventure Travel Pack

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

Deuter Aircontact Core 45 + 10 SL Pack

REI Co-op Flash 55 Pack

Osprey Ariel Plus 70 Pack

Gregory Maven 55 Pack

• Bonus backpack: Decathlon Quechua 50L Forclaz for Women
• Filson Rugged Twill Rucksack

Everyone has their passions, and I’m pretty passionate about travel backpacks. A good backpack makes or breaks a trip, and I have so many great memories with all my travel bags from around the world!

I take different types of trips (backpacking, work trip, day trip). My travel backpacks might be a daypack for toting my laptop to a cafe while in a new city, or a “backpacking backpack” that takes me on a two-week trip to Southeast Asia. I’ve searched “travel backpacks” time and again, but what I always need is the best travel backpacks for women . As a female traveler, I have my own style requirements, as well as size requirements!

My list here has photos of me wearing these highly-recommended travel backpacks, so you can see how they look on a real person (I’m not a model!). Here are the best backpacks for woman travelers, from daypacks, to weekend travel bags to backpacking rucksacks.

Browse our top 10 picks

• Best Small Travel Daypack Troubadour Ki Backpack
• Best Classic Slim Laptop Daypack Everlane Renew Rucksack
• Best Athletic-Style Travel Daypack Aer Fit Pack 3
• Best Travel Bag to Have for Life Filson Rugged Twill Rucksack
• Best All-Weather Daypack Stubble & Co. Roll-Top Mini
• Best for One-Bag Travel Topo Designs Global Travel Bag
• Best International Carry-On Bag Tortuga Travel Backpack
• Best Durable Weekender Backpack Tom Bihn Techonaut
• Best Expandable Travel Backpack Peak Design Travel Backpack
• Best for Backpack Weight Management Deuter Aircontact

Quickly jump to these sections of my women’s backpack reviews:

• Daypacks & Small Backpacks
• Standard Travel Bags & Weekender Backpacks
• Larger-Volume Travel Backpacks

Daypacks are simple, like a backpack that carries my work laptop when I am working remotely and traveling . Other daypacks are comfortable small backpacks that I want to be my personal item for a flight. The daypacks for women below would be my backpacks for a day of sightseeing on vacation.

Troubadour Ki Backpack

Troubadour is a company I really like for its sustainability practices. When I tried the Ki Backpack , I was floored with the ultimate lightweight factor of this bag, along with the pockets, materials and trustworthy quality. I use it when I commute to work, because it fits my 13” MacBook Air, plus a few snacks and even a light sweater.

I have so many positive things to say about this bag that they won’t all fit here! Head on over to my detailed review of the Ki Backpack to see more photos of me using this travel backpack for women.

• I like that it’s made of sustainable materials and that Troubadour is B-Certified.
• It neatly fits everything I need, with no lumpy space leftover. It also holds its shape when I’m out for a day.
• Priced at $200+ (but worth it because I think this little backpack is PERFECT!)
• Not big enough to fit my jacket or outfit changes I may need.

Experience sophisticated storage with the Troubadour Ki Backpack, built for both professional settings and adventurous trips.

Away Everywhere Zip Backpack & Front Pocket Backpack

The Away Everywhere Zip Backpack has been my personal item on a flight during travel. I’ve also used it as my go-to daytime backpack while on vacation.

Away also makes a smaller backpack with a front pocket ! In this review about the Away Daypack , I review the original style as one of the best daypacks for female travel, because it’s slim, not bulky, not “doofy” and has plenty of inner pockets that I value.

Away updated the backpack since I’ve reviewed it! The updates are great improvements to this daypack that comes in a convenient size and looks more stylish and elegant than ever.

• The size gives me plenty of room for all my essentials, like a water bottle and a light layer during a trip.
• It has worked well for me as a personal item on a flight that I also use as a daypack while traveling.
• At $195, it’s expensive, but take my advice: make use of Away’s 100-day trial, to try it commitment-free.

Away Everywhere Zip Backpack

Journey in style with the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack, your compact companion for everyday use.

United by Blue (R)evolution 15L Commuter Backpack

The (R)evolution 15L backpack is a backpack both Dan and I have used while hiking, or out for a day trip. It has a slimming shape for a travel bag, and looks good on a short woman like me.

This backpack is impressively lightweight, so the starting weight is almost nothing before you put your first item in.It fits my MacBook Air perfectly. It also fits Dan’s 14” MacBook Pro snugly. The interior laptop sleeve is padded for a little bit of protection.

• Because there’s not a lot of padding in the (R)evolution 15L, it’s packable into a larger piece of luggage, which is a plus!
• It’s an ideal “personal item” on a flight, at the 15L size. I used it on my flight when I went to Canada.
• With spot clean care, it’s not exactly recommended to be machine-washable, and I like my bags to be washable.
• It does NOT have water bottle side pockets. This bothers me a little because I’m constantly using a water bottle.

Step into sustainability with the United by Blue (R)evolution 15L Commuter Backpack, designed for the eco-conscious traveler.

Troubadour Momentum Backpack

I like the symmetrical and calming design of the Momentum Backpack . I’ve been enjoying that my Momentum Backpack has both function and style, for a woman traveler like me.

The Momentum Backpack is a sleek backpack that makes an excellent “personal item” for a flight, as well as a daypack when I’m on a trip. For features, I appreciate the high-quality zippers that don’t snag (signature for Troubadour products, which I also mention in my Generation Leather Backpack review ), the dedicated laptop compartment with its own exterior zipper and inner sleeve, and the loads of organizer pockets in the main compartment where I stash my essentials.

It’s a 13L-volume bag that’ll do well either for work or play. I really like the thick top handle, which is handy for if I need to hold my backpack by a top handle when I’m crunched on a subway or metro car. The zipper pulls are also nice and long, and the whole bag is lightweight, which I appreciate as a petite woman. I have a LOT of things to say about this backpack, which you can see at my Troubadour Momentum Backpack review here.

• For me, it’s the perfect daypack size. I make use of all the neatly zippered pockets in its beautiful design.
• The laptop compartment fits two laptops : it’s perfect if I have a work laptop and a personal laptop (or a laptop and a tablet).
• Laptop compartment and front zip compartment have single zippers, but double zips would’ve been nice.

Satisfy your adventure needs with the Troubadour Momentum Backpack, perfect for exploring urban jungles and beyond.

Quince All-Day Neoprene Backpack

What went through my head when I took this backpack out of its packaging was, “Woohoo! I’m finally one of those people with a trendy neoprene backpack!” Quince’s Neoprene Backpack is cute, and sits well on my back. This backpack is pretty squishy and light, so I can squish it into my Quince suitcase if I want to pack it and take it out when my flight lands.

One unique travel feature on this bag is the detachable “valuables” pouch. This inner neoprene pouch is attached by a cord, and helps protect against pickpockets and theft. I’m going to keep my typical on-the-go stuff in there, whether valuable or not.

The backpack is 16L in volume, with travel features like a luggage pass-through sleeve, a 13” laptop pocket sleeve for my Macbook Air and the detachable 7” zipper pouch. At just under $100, it’s affordable. See more photos at my full Quince neoprene backpack review .

Bonus idea: Pair it with Quince’s Neoprene belt bag from the same collection. I featured it in my list of the best travel fanny packs .

Made from recycled materials, this lightweight and flexible backpack has essential travel features and some surpise bonus aspects.

Moment MTW Backpack 17L

The Moment MTW Backpack 17L quickly became a favorite day-sized backpack for me! It’s not too big, and not too small for a petite woman like myself. At 17L, it’s a nice daypack size for essentials and it has a clean modern look.

Warehouse returns are now on sale at 15% off (never used, just open box!); plus, get free shipping on US orders over $98.

Shop the sale

The MTW backpack is cool for “going anywhere” or bringing your work with you. I like this backpack so far for day trips. If I’m going to be taking my camera out on a trip, I use the nifty interior of this backpack, which is made for safely storing tech like lenses, chargers, headphones and more essentials.

For travel, there’s also a trolley pass-through, for being airport-ready. You can see how it looks on me in these photos that Dan took (I’m 5’2”).

My other experience with the Moment brand is the cool and minimal Moment Fanny Sling in my roundup of the best fanny packs for travel . It’s made of the same materials as the MTW backpack, so if you like that, check out this belt bag.

Moment debuted a new laptop and photography bag that’s going to be replacing this one, and it comes in the same sizes. Check out our Moment Everything Backpack review .

• Cushioned laptop compartment with space for two laptops, or a laptop and a tablet.
• Designed to stand up on its own and not topple over if you set it down.
• The laptop zipper can be a little stiff from time to time.
• Some people might get annoyed by the flap that goes over the zipper of the main compartment.

Carry your tech essentials with ease with the Moment MTW Backpack 17L, offering unparalleled durability and style.

UP Seoul Lifestyle Daypack by Deuter

I’ve been using the Deuter UP Seoul Daypack for a year. I liked how it’s streamlined and chilled-out, with a down-to-earth look. For features, I enjoy the zipper-around flap and the two side pockets for water bottles.

The UP Seoul Daypack is described as 16+10L, meaning it has an overall capacity of 26L. For me, it works well as a commuter bag or a daypack for a road trip or vacation. I can fit a light jacket, some food for during the day, a book and a slim pair of shoes. I shared more photos at my Deuter UP Seoul backpack review .

• Narrow (rather than wide) shape that looks slimming for me, with my 5’2” height and narrow build.
• Zipper-around closure top flap (GREAT for being theft-proof in cities).
• The side pockets do NOT fit wide water bottles like my 24-oz sport bottle.
• The only thing that bothers me is the bottom waist strap, which can’t be stowed away, so it hangs out and looks ‘strappy.’

Deuter UP Seoul Lifestyle Daypack

Take the city by storm with the UP Seoul Lifestyle Daypack by Deuter, a classic and functional companion for urban exploration.

Small Expandable Knack Pack

The smallest Knack Pack from Knack Bags is a 15L backpack designed to be a go-to on a daily commute. It fits a 13” laptop and has a dedicated bottom storage compartment dedicated to holding your laptop charger and plug.

I tried out the small Knack Pack both as a day bag to take to work, and as a daypack for a day trip out to Long Island. What’s important to know about this bag is that it expands quickly out to 27L, to fit some minimalist-style needs for an entire weekend trip. It’s meant to convert fast from one size to the next.

You can see lots more detail in our dedicated Small Expandable Knack product review .

• The small-size Knack Bag has a thoughtful size for commutes and day trips.
• Travel-friendly: Designed to fit both in overhead airplane compartments and under airplane seats.
• Design is a bit boxy and not overly feminine nor slimming.
• Would be a wide fit for petite women (like me) with narrow shoulders (for taller women, no problem).

Update: Series 2: Medium Expandable Knack Pack

I tried out the Series 2: Medium Expandable Knack Pack . Even with the medium size, it didn’t feel too big. The elongated shape of this bag makes it slightly slimming, even though it’s 24L when un-expanded, and 35L when expanded.

It fits two or three outfits when packing lightly for a short trip and it fits a 15” laptop. Like the Small Expandable Knack Pack, it has removable and packable straps, and a strong foam back panel for support during wear.

Check out the Series 1 on Amazon or Knack Bags directly . And see the updates for the Series 2 !

Expand your storage space without sacrificing style with the Small Expandable Knack Pack, a versatile solution for all your needs.

Aer Fit Pack 3

First, a disclaimer: my recommendation is that this backpack is good for women with standard or wider shoulders, or women who are tall. On me, it looks a bit big and goofy (remember: I am 5’2” and short/petite.)

The Aer Fit Pack 3 daypack definitely packs in a bit more volume than the Away Daypack mentioned above. At 18L, I found I can fit way more. It’s why Aer markets this bag as a daypack that’ll fit your gym clothes, and split them up from your laptop. Dan reviewed it in-depth as a work-meets-gym/travel bag in this detailed review .

In my use of it, I found the useful features to be the unique center zipper, water bottle pockets and mesh back panel. My favorite features are the extremely high-quality zippers and seal-proof zipper closures, along with the very sturdy lift handle. This price reflects the high quality that I can feel when I wear it.

• It has a pass-through strap to be used with the handle of your luggage (great for the airport).
• The laptop compartment is secure and padded and feels really durable.
• Smaller-framed women may find it a bit big for taking around because of the thick and slightly wide-set straps.
• The vertical-zip compartment is not for every taste because it’s unique and non-standard.

Travel lighter and smarter with the Aer Fit Pack 3, designed to secure your essentials without adding unnecessary bulk.

Tortuga Laptop Backpack

I got the Tortuga Laptop Backpack to use as a “personal item” on a flight. My favorite travel features of this backpack are the laptop compartment (two ways to access it), the tech pouch and the dual water bottle pockets.

This laptop backpack only comes in black, in its no-nonsense style, with ample pockets and a light starting weight. Note: It’s a unisex backpack designed for both men and women and anyone else who’s bringing around a laptop and trip essentials.

When I use this backpack, I can fit both a MacBook Pro and my Macbook Air . To see all the photos of the features and all about the inside of this bag, check out the Tortuga Laptop Backpack review that I wrote!

Overall, this laptop backpack is a very good choice for travel, with features like the luggage passthrough and mesh pockets that I’ve used for my passport. To learn more about Tortuga, I suggest checking out my Tortuga brand review .

Update: It’s currently on final sale, so grab one before it sells out forever!

Travel like an expert with the laptop backpack meant for travel.

Stubble & Co. Roll-Top Mini Backpack

The 14-liter Roll-Top Mini from Stubble & Co. is my first “roll-top” backpack. I’ve always seen people biking with roll-top backpacks, and never quite went as far as to buy one. I like the lightweight feel of it — it’s only 1.76 lbs when empty (great for a petite person like me).

I get into all the details and features at my Stubble & Co. Roll-Top Backpack review .

When I received my Mini Roll-Top, I noticed that the packaging was fully recyclable and compostable (Stubble & Co. is a certified B Corporation for sustainability practices).

I chose the Roll-Top Mini to fit my small 5’2” narrow frame. I used it immediately to tote around my laptop and work essentials for an afternoon. I slid my MacBook Air into the padded laptop compartment, zipped it up via the backside and put my phone and AirPods into the front zipper pocket.

What I like about the Roll-Top Mini as a women’s travel daypack is that it’ll keep my stuff dry if I get caught in some rain or snow (consider a trip in Ireland !). All the seams and zippers are waterproof. The roll top closes with a “G clip” to fasten it, for a cool travel bag look. (My tip: this backpack comes in a lot of colors, but don’t delay: the popular ones often sell out.)

• It’s versatile and secure, whether I’m biking, hiking or out with my laptop in the city.
• Focus on weatherproofed materials, zips and seams, and the roll top keeps everything inside dry.
• The water bottle pockets only fit a regular slim bottle (as pictured), not my 24oz travel water bottle.
• Laptop is not accessible from main compartment — only from dedicated back panel laptop compartment.

Thank you to Stubble & Co. for generously sending me the Roll-Top Mini. All thoughts here are my own based on my use of the product.

Stubble & Co. Roll-Top Mini

Waterproof zippers and the roll-top closure with a clip make this an excellent all-weather travel backpack.

Mammut Lithium 20 Women’s Hiking Daypack

I haven’t listed many hiking-specific backpacks in this list, but, I feel inclined to list Mammut’s 20-liter Lithium Women’s backpack](https://www.avantlink.com/click.php?tt=cl&mi=27813&pw=239385&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.mammut.com%2Fus%2Fen%2Fproducts%2F2530-00720%2Flithium-20-women&website_id=239385) made just for women . After all, that’s what you’d want to see in a list of the best travel backpacks for women!

This moderately-priced 20-liter daypack has a lot of features that will help out with ergonomics during hikes both small and long. The features that spoke to me were the ones that help support weight and the ones that are designed for a woman’s anatomy. These include the hip belt, the narrowed and supportive back straps, the sternum strap and the mesh airflow back panel.

For cool hiking features, there’s a pull-out and store-able rain cover, a key clip, a water bladder hook, a phone pocket that folds out of the hip belt and a bunch of useful pockets like the front zip pocket for easy-access items. Above all, the bag is nearly weightless, so this one gets the green light from me for petite women who want a bag that starts off hyper lightweight (1.56 pounds) for a trip.

Mammut Lithium 20 Women's Hiking Daypack

Designed for women and incredibly lightweight for support during hikes and treks.

Standard travel bags

I consider a standard travel bag or travel backpack to be between 30L and 45L in volume. These are the travel backpacks I take on a flight with no problem. Travel bags of this size are big enough to carry my things for a one or two-week trip.

Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L

I’ve tried out the Topo Global Travel Bag in 30L for weekend trips and road trips. Dan and I have lightly packed for a weekend away when we stayed at my parents’ house, and with some packing cubes, fit most of our clothes in there for a 48-hour stay.

The Global Travel Bag in 30L has “three-way” backpack straps-duffel handle-shoulder strap functionality. I haven’t used it as a duffel, and I’ve only used it as a backpack. My favorite part about it is that the materials feel lightweight and strong, to reflect the price tag.

• Carry-on compliant, external laptop sleeve for airport use, works well with other products in the “Topo ecosystem.”
• I can attest to the fact that it works well for “one-bag travel” (long weekends or day trips out hiking).
• It doesn’t have any “female-specific” features, but this is why I share this backpack with Dan.

Travel the world with the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L, a modern and functional companion.

Bellroy Transit Backpack Plus

My first impression of the Bellroy backpack was that the quality is very sturdy. I can tell just by feeling the exterior that it’s made of a water-resistant fabric, which is a crucial feature for my preferences, in a travel bag. I took this bag on a train trip for its maiden voyage, and it supported weight well as I was walking through NYC.

I really like the 38L size of this transit backpack , which is cool as a large commuter bag, nice-sized weekender backpack or larger-end daypack. It’s also quite structured, rather than thin and slouchy, which I like in a bag because it holds its shape.

It’s more lightweight than other bags of its size, which I like a lot. The weight makes a big difference when I’m carrying the Transit Backpack for a long time. I find it to be spacious inside (I’ve actually packed an entire set of queen-sized sheets in it.) See more on the details at my Bellroy Transit Backpack Plus review , along with what I don’t like.

• The exterior feels strong, like I could throw this backpack around and it would hold up. In fact, the materials feel pretty unique because I haven’t seen these textures in other backpacks.
• In my use, the zippers are a bit stiff, and feel like they’re tough to break in, even after quite a few uses. The zippers move kind of slowly and require some effort. I’d say this is my least favorite aspect of the bag.

Travel in comfort and style with the spacious Bellroy Transit Backpack Plus, designed to keep your essentials neatly organized.

Tom Bihn Techonaut 45

I have used this Tom Bihn backpack for a weekend trip several times. With the size, it fits my packing cubes full of a few sets of clothes, and my laptop. Tom Bihn is a brand that uses superior materials that should last for decades. I see this in the quality of the Tom Bihn Synapse , which Dan and I have used for a few years, too.

The Tom Bihn Techonaut opens clamshell-style, and it’s one of the few backpacks this size that have this style. Because of the wider square shape, it’s not great for petite women, but fine for women who are taller. We critique the Tom Bihn Techonaut in this review .

• Incredible materials and strong zippers. Useful side-grab handle for carrying as a duffel as well.
• Awesome choice for using as a weekender backpack, with dedicated laptop compartment.
• The relatively high price (it reflects the high-quality nylon ripstop build, and water-repellant zippers!)
• Likely too wide for petite women.
• Not comfortable to wear for an extended period of time like in walking around a city on a layover because it doubles as a duffel.

Embark on your adventures with the Tom Bihn Techonaut 45, a durable, spacious, and travel-friendly backpack.

Cotopaxi All-New Allpa 42L Adventure Travel Pack

The Cotopaxi Allpa 42L travel backpack is one of the coolest and most colorful adventure bags I have ever seen. What stands out to me is the all-around clamshell opening, so that you can see EVERYTHING you packed inside, much like how a suitcase opens!

What I saw first was how glad I went with the “Del Dia” option, which is a surprising way to shop: I knew the backpack would look great, and shopping with Cotopaxi’s Del Dia means the bag is made with “deadstock” materials that would otherwise be thrown out.

Here’s my tip: Shopping for any Cotopaxi product that has a Del Dia option means I’m lessening my carbon footprint on that item by 30%, according to Cotopaxi’s sustainable by design page . You can even go straight to shopping for Del Dia options to skip right to the sustainable bag options across the site.

As for the great features on this backpack, I like the big buckles for the hip belt, the colorful mesh pockets in the interior, the bright colors EVERYWHERE, the laptop/tablet sleeves and the overall fun design that makes this backpack POP!

Cotopaxi Allpa 42L Adventure Travel Pack

Get funky with Cotopaxi's amazing color combos by shopping Del Dia options for this robust adventure backpack.

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

Through my experience with the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L , my favorite aspect is the high-quality zippers that won’t break, snap or split. While other backpacks may report torn pockets or bad zippers in the reviews, I find the PD backpack to perform flawlessly. You’ll find this backpack in our list of the best backpacks for travel photography .

As a woman traveler using this backpack, I adjust the straps a lot. This backpack has great “expandability,” because it’s — well, expandable. The entire front of the bag unzips, which reveals another few liters of space that you can utilize. The exterior is 100% waterproof.

It’s international carry-on size approved, so no airline can turn it away from an overhead compartment when I fly.

I also have the 30L version , and it shares a lot of the same quality and features. If you don’t quite need 45L, the 30L is a perfect alternative. Dan also uses this bag extensively and write a review of it. Check out the review !

Get free shipping on US orders $99+, with 30-day returns!

Shop the deal

• The nylon shell and waterproof liner that instill confidence during unexpected downpours.
• Padded shoulder straps and waist straps, along with an attractive and modern minimalist design in Black or Sage.
• High price for a 45L, but worth it, if you’re into quality materials and a bag for life.
• No woman-specific features for sizing.
• Limited number of pockets, but still a good amount.

And by the way, we wrote an extensive Peak Design buying guide , if you’re interested in checking it out!

Unleash your wanderlust with the Peak Design 45L Travel Backpack, designed for maximum packing flexibility and uncompromised comfort.

“Backpacker” Large-Volume Travel Backpacks

With a big backpacker backpack, you are likely a serious traveler. Higher-volume backpacks help me carry a heavy load when I’m on a longer trip. The backpacks I’ve recommended below are fit custom for women’s bodies and often have adjustable straps, to support more weight ergonomically.

Here’s my tip: Keep in mind that bags of this size will likely need to be checked as checked luggage. If you’re seeking a savvy way to track the location of your checked luggage, like if you have a layover and there’s a risk of your bag being sent the wrong way, consider Apple AirTags like I’m using these days, to track my bags’ locations.

Deuter Aircontact Core 45 + 10 SL Pack

I’ve had a lot of luck with my smaller backpack from Deuter, and it’s a trusty brand that travelers hold in high regard. This high-volume backpacking backpack is for the woman who wants to take everything and have it all fit in a 45+10L backpack. My sibling Emma recently took it on a trip and was impressed with everything she could fit in it. I list it as one of the best products for backpackers this year.

The backpack was modeled by Deuter to have a female-specific fit, setting it apart from a men’s bag of the same size and build. The “SL” in the name means “Slim Line.” For features, I like the ergonomic lock hip fit, with compression straps, an air mesh back panel and a narrow shoulder harness.

The +10L is an optional compartment at the top that you can stash gear in, without having to open the rest of the backpack. This is a perfect opportunity for me to put in a travel blanket, or a sleeping bag. I can detach this compartment and leverage additional space using Deuter’s design.

You can see how I look with the Aircontact Core backpack in these photos. Keep in mind that I am 5’2” and petite. This backpack works great for its narrowness and weight distribution. I wish I’d had it for all my trips in past years!

For buying options, you can check out this backpack on REI.com and Amazon .

• Well-priced for its size, volume, features and quality.
• Attractive feature for keeping shape: the more you pack it, the taller (not wider), it gets.
• Weighs 4 lbs 4.4 oz when empty because of the metal frame.
• It only comes in one women’s size, OS (one size).

Carry your gear in comfort with the Deuter Aircontact Core 60 + 10 SL Pack, designed for extended trips.

REI Co-op Flash 55 Pack

I’m impressed that this flash 55L pack by REI doesn’t truly look like it’s a 55L backpack. It looks more modest and compact, but it packs a punch (well, literally it packs 55L of your stuff).

True to REI being awesome, it comes in dedicated women’s sizes of XS, S and M. It focuses on stability and suspension, for female hikers and anyone who plans to be really walking around with this 55L backpack strapped to your back (long walks through airports maybe?).

For loads of 15-30 pounds, the support and suspension keeps even this kind of weight comfortable through compression straps and a contoured hip belt.

• Great support through weight management features, and roll-top closure for compression.
• The design is hydration-compatible, good for hiking or hot weather trips.
• Comes in three dedicated female-specific sizes.
• The mesh and materials can be kind of delicate, and are prone to ripping if you get rugged during a hike.
• Can’t think of anything else!

Make hiking a breeze with the REI Co-op Flash 55 Pack, offering ample storage without the weight.

Osprey Ariel Plus 70 Pack

If you’ve ever been in a hostel where you eye everyone’s backpacks and have backpack envy, you’ve probably seen a guy or gal with an Osprey. What’s the hype all about?

With the Osprey Ariel Plus 70 Pack , which is a maximum-size backpacking backpack, you better be getting everything under the sun for its cost of $410. I like this backpack though, because it has a detachable bag that you can use for a daypack for hikes or walking around the city.

This is a fantastic value-add because the detachable tiny daypack. It’s very small; however, you can bet that the removable daypack will be handy to take on a hike or out for a day of sightseeing. It’s like a built-in convenience that I have found highly useful during travel.

• It’s one of the highest-volume backpacks for women on the market.
• The removable top lid and detachable daypack is super handy.
• Osprey seems to be skipping over woman-specific build features.
• The price is one of the highest out there for a 70L, but the value is good.

Explore the wilderness with the Osprey Ariel Plus 70 Pack, offering extensive storage and comfort.

Gregory Maven 55 Pack

This durable and comfortable form-fitting 55L larger backpack for women has a heap of features like a woman-specific shoulder harness and comes in two sets of sizes, XS-S and S-M. This is really useful if you’re a petite woman looking for a backpack that’ll agree with narrow shoulders or a unique build.

The Gregory Maven 55 Pack allows for easy gear loading and focuses on adjustability and performance technics for whatever the weather brings, from rain (a rain cover in a zipper pocket) to hot sun (with a sunglasses stow system feature).

Overall, the price is steeper, but this is certainly a backpack for life, and with the REI warranty, you can return or replace your item for a refund within 365 of buying it.

• Woman-specific build for female bodies
• Incredible set of features for travel conveniences and security
• At around $260, this backpack may be steep for some.
• The REI warranty is “only” one year, and not a lifetime warranty.

Embark on epic adventures with the Gregory Maven 55 Pack, built to carry your world.

Bonus backpack: Decathlon Quechua 50L Forclaz for Women

I’d be remiss if I didn’t include this trusty and budget (okay, cheap) hiking and backpacking travel pack for women. I had the 2010 version, and then the 2011 version, and then Dan got the 2018 version for men.

I’ve had a ton of experience using the Quechua Forclaz 50L as my main backpacking travel bag, and it has stood the test of time. It also comes in this 60L version around the same price point.

• Affordable price
• Lightweight materials
• Great back support, plenty of compartments
• Zippers aren’t top quality
• Elastic bungee bands tend to wear out over time
• None others. I’ve taken my Quechua Forclaz to more than 30 countries.

Decathlon Quechua 50L Forclaz

Travel light without leaving anything behind with the Decathlon Quechua 50L Forclaz, the ultimate backpack for every traveller.

Honorable Mentions

These backpacks are a mix of bags that may not fit the categories we listed above, or, they’re discontinued but there’s a close second in stock. Check ‘em out in case you haven’t found what you were looking for yet.

Filson Rugged Twill Rucksack

The Filson Rucksack, which is now only available in a “large” size, is a bag to have for life. It’s made of basically indestructible materials, and while I don’t recommend it for petite or narrow-shouldered women, it will look great on taller women. It’s a completely timeless style, that I can wear from my 30s into my 80s (I’m serious!). There’s more on this travel backpack at my dedicated review of it.

The Filson Twill Rucksack (Large)

Make sure to check this out and see if it's for you!

Why trust me?

I’ve traveled around the world with only a backpack (or two). For me, I like backpacks because they make traveling more flexible. When I take a rolling suitcase, it’s easier to transport on flat surfaces at the airport, but when I’m walking through cobblestone streets in European cities, I prefer having a backpack!

I’m also petite (and short!), so having a backpack meant for a wider, taller and broader man just won’t cut it. I’ve had trouble with this over the years, and I’ve been delighted recently that there are so many backpacks on the market for women just like me.

I’ve lived abroad (three times!), traveled to more than 40ish (or 50ish? I stopped counting) countries – many of them twice or three times. On all my travels and trips, my awesome backpacks played a huge part.

I hope you have found what you’re looking for in my list of backpacks and I’m sure you can tell that I prioritize quality, comfort, sturdiness and style. If you have a backpack that you love that I could add to this list, let me know at our contact form .

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Best Travel Backpack For Women (From Small to Carry-on)

Finding the best travel backpack for women is a challenge with so many choices on the market!

From daypacks and carry-on backpacks to rolling and stylish backpacks, you are more than confused if you came here, right?

At A Glance: Our Top Picks for Women's Travel Backpack

• BEST CARRY ON Hynes Eagle Carry On Backpack Jump To Review
• Luxury Women's Carry-on Backpack Monos Metro Backpack Jump To Review
• Stylish Travel Backpack Fjallraven Travel Pack Jump To Review
• Lightweight Travel Backpack Kroser Laptop Backpack Jump To Review
• BEST MID-SIZE Osprey Fairview 40 Jump To Review
• BEST LARGE BACKPACK Thule Landmark Travel Pack Jump To Review

That is why I have broken it down to make your decision easier when finding the ideal female travel backpack.

Top Product Overview

Best travel backpack for women, carry on size: 30-40 litre packs.

In this section, I will only show you the best small travel backpacks for ladies. Ones that have up to 40 liters of capacity. All of them are carry-on sized and should be allowed on any airplane.

Hynes Eagle Carry On Backpack

If you don’t feel like spending hundreds of dollars on a backpack, then this is one of your best options.  The Hynes Eagle Carry-On is a unisex backpack , with a price tag of around $50. The exact price depends on the color that you want to pick up.

It’s very affordable, and you will get amazing value for money. The backpack is made from polyester and features a padded and ventilated backpanel. The shoulder straps are also covered with breathable mesh, and they are stowable.

The durability of this backpack is not really premium – you will notice some wear and tear sooner than you would on an Osprey backpack. However, that’s to be expected of a backpack that’s this affordable.

You have to compromise on something; with Amsterdam, you are getting a carry-on with a large capacity, lots of pockets for organization, and multiple compartments.  But you’re compromising on durability.

The pack features  a laptop sleeve that will easily fit 15.6” laptops, and can even fit some slimmer 17” laptops. It opens up suitcase-style, which allows for easy packing. And the  internal straps will hold all your clothes in place . There are also external compression straps, which allow you to reduce the size of the pack when it is not at full capacity.

Another thing worth noting is that this pack features  an organizational panel in the front compartment. It has a large sleeve that can easily fit your tablet and several smaller slip and zip pockets for all your other necessities.

• Great value for money
• Adjustable and stowable backpack straps
• Good organizational features
• Durability of materials could be improved

Product Information

• Dimensions: 13” x 7.9” x 19.7”
• Weight: 1.76 lbs
• Capacity: 38 liters

Monos Metro Backpack

Monos is known for creating high-quality modern luggage and their Metro backpack is no exception. If you want a sleek and stylish bag for travel, this is one of the top options. It’s even a great choice for travel in Europe, because the backpack is small enough to fit under the seat with most carriers.

The Monos Metro bag is made from nylon or vegan leather , for a sleek but luxurious look and feel. It’s got a 15” laptop compartment, multiple internal and external pockets, and even a luggage strap in the back so you can mount it on top of your suitcase.

The front of the backpack has an attachment point for the Metro Folio kit . This is a small organizer that you attach to the front of the backpack and that looks just like a regular backpack front pocket. It’s a good item to have if you need an organizer, but it’s worth noting that it’s quite expensive for what it is.

The same could be said about the Metro backpack alone – it’s a more expensive option but if you want a premium bag and you don’t mind paying for quality, Monos Metro might just be the bag you’re looking for.

• High-quality construction
• Multiple internal and external pockets
• Padded laptop sleeve
• No breathable mesh on the back system
• Dimensions: 11.5" × 16.5" × 6"
• Weight: 2.4 lb (nylon) / 3 lb (vegan leather)
• Capacity: 18 liters

The North Face Router

The TNF Router  is an amazing travel backpack. It’s  remarkably versatile – with multiple compartments, loads of pockets, and a few attachment points, this is a backpack you will feel comfortable with both in the air and on the trail.

It is  a unisex laptop backpack though, so there are no women’s specific features on it. However, it is a super popular all-rounder daypack that is great for city trips or even a day out hiking

This backpack features a TSA-friendly 17″ laptop compartment in the back, with thick padding for great shock absorption.

The  main compartment is very spacious and has an internal zippered pocket.  It’s large enough to fit clothes for a weekend trip, and you can fit everything else in the front compartment and the five external pockets. That front compartment features an organizer panel with a tablet sleeve, smartphone pocket, and a bunch of other smaller slip and zippered pockets.

The Router is equipped with the FlexVent suspension system, for excellent carrying comfort. Both the back panel and harness are very breathable, and the ventilation of this backpack is really great. It is even endorsed by the ACA (American Chiropractic Association), so there’s no doubt that it will feel really comfortable on your back.

The only downside of this travel backpack is the hip belt – it’s rather thin, so it might cut into your waist a little bit if you carry it for too long.

• Great for organization
• TSA friendly laptop (17”) compartment
• Endorsed by ACA
• No padding on the hipbelt
• No color or size variety
• Dimensions: 21” x 13.75” x 8”
• Weight: 3lbs 4.91oz
• Capacity: 35 liters

SWISSGEAR 1900 Scansmart TSA Laptop Backpack

If you’re primarily looking for a functional carry-on, then this  SwissGear  backpack  is a good option. It has some features that will make your life easier, especially if you tend to travel with lots of electronics. Even when compared to its close relative, the 1923 .

The backpack features a dedicated TSA-friendly compartment for those electronics. The laptop sleeve is padded and has a zipper closure.  It can fit most 17” laptops,  which is pretty great. There’s also a floating tablet sleeve in this compartment.

The  ergonomic shoulder straps are adjustable, and padded, and feature a loop attachment point for your sunglasses . There is also padding in the  Airflow back panel , which promises great carrying comfort.

The travel backpack has awesome organizational features. The main packing compartment is very spacious and has a media pocket with a headphone port. In addition to that, there is also a large zippered pocket in this compartment, as well as a smaller slip pocket – perfect for organizing all your chargers and cables.

The laptop backpack also features four additional zippered pockets, one of which has an organizer panel for all your smaller items. There are also two water bottle pockets that are just the right size to hold water bottles.

• Excellent organizational features
• TSA friendly laptop compartment
• Airflow backpanel is comfortable
• No hipbelt or sternum strap
• Not a good replacement for a suitcase – small capacity
• Dimensions: 18.5" x 13.5" x 9"
• Weight: 3.2 lbs (shipping weight)
• Capacity: 31 liters

40-50 liters (Medium)

In this section, I will show you some of the best backpacks for women that have a capacity between 40 and 50 liters. A couple of them are small enough that they will be accepted as carry ons, despite their large capacity.

Fjallraven Travel Pack

Fjallraven is known for the very simple and stylish Kanken , but this stylish backpack is packed full of travel features – The Fjallraven Travel backpack . It is  made from recycled polyester and organic cotton, and it is coated for excellent water resistance. This backpack is very durable, and you will be able to use it for a really long time.

The Travel Pack features a padded laptop compartment (fits 15” laptops) with additional pockets for your tablet, documents, etc. That compartment is all the way in the pack, and it can be fully opened. This allows you to get through TSA checkpoints very quickly.

The  main compartment of the pack opens up clamshell-style, and it is divided into several packing compartments. The bottom side features a large packing compartment with a zippered divider, and the top side of the pack is divided into two smaller compartments.

All of this allows for easy organization, which is pretty important for travel. You also get  two external pockets on the front panel  that you can use for any items you would want to have handy at all times.

This Fjallraven backpack is  a women’s specific design.  It’s a bit smaller than the men’s version, and the shoulder straps are slightly shorter. The  harness is covered with breathable mesh, for great ventilation . Additionally, the shoulder straps are stowable, and the back looks rather sleek when you put them away.

Unfortunately, you won’t have a great back panel on this backpack, which is one downside.

Being a Fjallraven, also means it is a more fashionable travel backpack that is more suited to ladies. On top of that, its small size means it is perhaps the best travel backpack for petite females.

• Clamshell opening for easy packing
• Backpanel is not ventilated
• Pretty pricey
• Dimensions: 18 in x 12.5 in x 10.5 in (45.7 x 31.8 x 26.7 cm)
• Weight: 3.65 lb (1.7 kg)

Kroser Laptop Backpack

The Kroser laptop backpack is excellent if you want something fashionable and stylish but affordable. It’s one of the cheapest backpacks featured in this review, but by no means is that a bad thing.

This backpack is suitable for women who need a smaller bag to carry all the items they want to have easily accessible during travel. It’s got a 15.6” laptop sleeve , a smaller tablet sleeve, and a bunch of open pockets, in addition to the roomy main compartment.

The backpack also has a USB port so that you can charge your phone on the go, as well as quite a wide opening, so that all your items are easily accessible at first glance. You could pack for a shorter trip in this backpack – it’s small enough to pass as an underseat bag on most airlines, with budget carriers excluded.

The Kroser backpack is made from quality leather for a sleek and modern look. It’s got padded shoulder straps , but it’s necessary to point out that the carrying comfort you experience with this pack is not the best. You are sacrificing comfort and durability for affordability, so keep that in mind.

• Very affordable
• Small enough to pass as an underseat bag on most planes
• Padding in the back system could be thicker
• No breathable mesh on back panel
• No hip belt or sternum strap
• Dimensions: 16.9" x 11.15" x 7.5"
• Weight: 1.82 lbs
• Capacity: Not specified

In this section we have some great women’s backpacks for women with a capacity between 40 – 50 liters. A few might bit tiny enough for carry-on, but most will struggle to fit in the tester!

Osprey Fairview 40

The Osprey Fairview backpack is a specifically designed travel backpack for women. It has ergonomically shaped backpack straps and a torso that’s shorter than the one on the men’s version ( Osprey Farpoint ).

Not only that, but it is available in three different sizes, and only the smallest backpack can be used as a carry-on.

This is  a front-loading backpack, with laptop and tablet sleeves inside the main packing area. It is similar to many other travel backpacks like the Tortuga Setout but obviously women-specific.

It is lightweight and built from really sturdy materials;  the exterior of the backpack is made from 210D Nylon which is water-resistant  even without any additional coating.

The  harness of this backpack is fully adjustable and stowable. This means you can put everything away if you have to check it in, which is a big plus.

The back panel and the harness are both padded and covered with breathable mesh for excellent ventilation. The LightWire Frame Suspension includes a strong peripheral frame that ensures your backpack never loses its shape, and that helps transfer the load of the pack away from your shoulders and onto your hips.

Of course, you will need to use the hip belt in order for that to be effective. But that shouldn’t be a problem, since t he hip belt is padded, ventilated, adjustable, and just really comfortable to wear. It ticks all the boxes!

The Fairview features multiple external mesh pockets and scratch-free pockets for sunglasses/smartphones.  That’s in addition to several internal pockets, all of which allow for easy organization.

See our full Fairview 40 review

• Carry-on sized
• Laptop and tablet sleeves
• Backpanel and harness are padded and ventilated
• A bit heavy due to frame
• Dimensions: 21” x 14” x 9”
• Weight: 3.16 lbs
• Capacity: 40 liters

Cotopaxi Travel Backpack

The Cotopaxi Travel Backpack is a colorful backpack/travel bag hybrid. It’s made from very sturdy materials – water-resistant 600-denier repurposed nylon.

It is designed from the ground up to be a travel backpack with a clamshell opening like a suitcase. Not only that but there are three easy-to-open zippered compartments for simple packing. And, you can access the main compartment through a handy side pocket which we loved!

The backpack has padded and ventilated back panel and shoulder straps with load bearing to make it extra comfy to carry. The hip belt is also quite low slung making it easy to load on the hips instead of your back. However, there is no sternum strap included, which is a shame for such a potentially heavy pack.

Another handy travel feature is that you can tuck away the shoulder straps and turn this into a duffel/carry-on bag. They hide away behind the back panel making carrying with the shoulder strap easy peasy.

Another cool feature is the 15-inch laptop sleeve i n the back panel, along with a place for your tablet and accessories. We found it a shame that is the largest laptop it can fit given its size.

Yes, there are also a few other pockets like the side water bottle pockets, a well-sized top organizer pocket. And there are four handles to carry it when it’s all set for travel-mode.

All in all, a unique travel pack that ticks all the boxes for the ladies, including style!

Timbuk2 claims that this backpack is carry-on sized. However, with a height of 22.8”, not all airplanes will allow you to bring this inside the cabin. So, it’s going to depend on the carry-on size restrictions that individual airlines have. And a little bit on your luck.

There is no dedicated TSA-friendly laptop sleeve on this travel bag, and that’s one downside.

But,  you can easily fit a 15” laptop inside the Wander – as long as you have your own laptop sleeve, it should be pretty safe.  The main packing area of the bag is very spacious, and it opens up just like a duffel bag. It features a large zippered pocket and internal straps that will keep all your clothes in place.

The travel bag has  several pockets, for easy organization.  That includes  a dedicated shoe compartment that doubles as a wet pocket.  And there’s also a small compartment with an organizer panel, on the top of the backpack.

The Wander is equipped with external compression straps that help cinch in the backpack when it’s not at full capacity. And which can also help you reduce its size so that it’s more likely to be accepted as a carry-on.

• Great packing options
• Transforms into a duffle bag
• Made from durable materials
• Water-resistant
• Heavy before you are packed
• No TSA friendly laptop sleeve
• Dimensions: 21.5 x 13 x 9 inches
• Weight: 4 lbs. 3 oz.
• Capacity: 42 liters

50+ liters (Large)

In this section, I will show you backpacks that have a capacity of a minimum of 50 liters. All of the backpacks you see here can fit enough clothes for at least a week of traveling, and some of them are a great option for backpacking.

Of course, if you are not a fan of carrying your large backpack around you might want to consider a wheeled backpack  instead!

Osprey Porter 46

The Porter 46  is a good choice if you want a medium-sized travel backpack. The 46-liter version is  too big to be a carry-on with most airlines, but some will actually accept it inside the cabin.  Be sure to check their requirements for in-cabin luggage, to avoid any surprises.

The backpack features HDPE Framesheet suspension, with thick padding on both the backpanel and the harness.  However, there’s no ventilation on the backpack –  the harness is stowable and the back is completely smooth ,  similar to the Fjallraven’s Travel Pack. The hip belt is padded though, and it is pretty comfortable to wear.

This is  a front-loading backpack – the cover of the main compartment unzips nearly all the way so that the entire packing area is exposed when you open up the backpack. This allows you to easily pack your backpack just like you would a single-compartment suitcase.

The Porter  is also equipped with  a front compartment with an organizer panel,  for all the items you would like to have easily accessible. And it features  a couple of external pockets,  for everything you don’t want to put in the main  packing area .

The Straightjacket compression allows you to tighten up the backpack when it’s not filled to capacity. And when you want to put it away, this really reduces the size of the backpack and the space it takes up.

The Porter pack also features a padded laptop sleeve all the way in the back, which will keep all your electronics safe. This pack is often  compared to the Osprey Farpoint/Fairview (mentioned above) and for good reason. They are similar and worthy travel companions. If you like Osprey, they are both a great buy.

See our full Osprey Porter review

• Multiple compartments and lots of pockets
• Comfortable hip belt
• Dedicated laptop sleeve
• A bit heavy
• Backpanel and harness not ventilated
• Dimensions: 23” x 15” x 13”
• Weight: 3.40 lbs
• Capacity: 46 liters

Gregory Mountain Products Tribute 40

The Tribute 40 is a women’s backpack by Gregory Mountain Products – a high-end brand that makes travel and outdoor gear. They are known for making travel gear that is high quality, durable, and very well built.

This backpack is no exception; it is made from 100% water-resistant Nylon . The pack features  a women’s specific air mesh harness with a sternum strap , which stows into its own compartment for air travel. The  entire harness is easily adjustable , so you should be able to make this backpack fit your body perfectly.

The dimensions listed below are the dimensions of the backpack at full capacity. If you don’t fill it to the brim, you could reduce its size with the straps, and then you might even be allowed to bring it inside the cabin. There is also a Tribute 50L , and a Tribute 70 with daypack if you want it for check-in luggage.

The  main compartment of this pack opens up like a suitcase, for easy packing. It is very spacious and you can easily fit clothes for a week of travel inside it. It has not only space, but also a specific pocket for dirty clothes, and a zippered mesh panel for other stuff.

In addition to that, there is also a front compartment, which features an organizer panel (great for travel accessories and a tablet) and a padded laptop sleeve.

The sleeve can fit most 15.6” laptops,  and the panel below it features pockets for both your tablet and smartphone.

The Proxy also features  a zippered top pocket , for all items you would like to have easily accessible. And with the  lockable zippers, you don’t have to worry about the safety of your belongings.

• Multiple compartments inside & out
• Comfortable and adjustable harness
• Very durable exterior
• Rain/Travel cover included
• Laptop sleeve is not TSA friendly
• Too tall to be a carry on when packed
• Dimensions: 22 x 12 x 11.5 inches
• Weight: 3 lbs. 0.6 oz.
• Capacity: 40 liters (50 & 70L available)
• Raincover Included Yes

AmazonBasics Carry-On Travel Backpack

The AmazonBasics backpack is a really great affordable option .  If you’re looking for a backpack with a large capacity but can’t afford to spend a lot of money, this is probably one of the best packs you could buy.

The best thing about it is that  it is carry-on sized, even with a capacity of 50 liters. And it is surprisingly well built, considering its price point. The backpanel and the shoulder straps feature thick padding and breathable mesh, for great carrying comfort.

The pack also  has a sternum strap and a hipbelt,  which help transfer its weight away from your shoulders and onto your hips.

The main compartment of this travel bag is very spacious, and it features two compression straps that will hold your stuff in place. There is also a large zippered pocket on the top cover of it that allows for some decent organization. Additionally, the  capacity of the bag is expandable,  which allows you to pack pretty much all you can carry.

When the AmazonBasics travel backpack is not at full capacity, you can always use the external compression straps to reduce its size and tighten it a bit.

And there is even  an organizer panel in the front compartment . It features  several slip pockets, including a couple of pen holders . That is in addition to the external zippered pocket, and the dedicated laptop sleeve.

The laptop compartment is unfortunately not TSA friendly, but it is all the way in the back. So, it will be pretty easy to take out your laptop – easier than packing it in the main compartment anyway.

• Expandable capacity
• Durability could be better (expect some loose threads)
• Dimensions: 15” x 6.5” x 20.1”
• Weight: 3.64 lbs
• Capacity: 50 liters

Kelty Redwing 50

The Kelty Redwing is a unisex hiking backpack, and it’s one of the best affordable options out there. The backpack is available in two sizes – the 50 liters version that I will be talking about here, and a smaller 44-liter version . Neither of them is small enough to be expected as a carry-on travel backpack.

This is an amazing backpack because it is  very versatile . Even though it’s supposed to be a hiking backpack, its size and capacity actually make it an excellent travel companion. The  top-loading main packing area is very spacious  and can fit enough gear for a week or two of traveling (including all those travel accessories).

The Redwing features a Dynamic AirFlow back panel, with spaced-out foam ridges covered in breathable mesh . Because of that, both the comfort and ventilation you get out of this backpack will feel premium.

In addition to the spacious main compartment, this backpack also features a front compartment with an organizer panel . It’s great for all items you would like to have handy while you’re traveling, and there’s even space inside the compartment for your tablet.

The main packing area has a dual-use sleeve – it is designed for either a laptop or a hydration bladder. And there are lots of other pockets on this backpack – a quick stash pocket on the top of the pack, stretch side pockets, zippered side pockets, and a front stretch pocket. Additionally, there are several attachment points for any bulkier gear on the exterior of the backpack.

See our full Kelty Redwing 50 review .

• Comfortable and ventilated backpanel
• Very versatile backpack
• Not available in carry on size
• No hipbelt pockets
• Dimensions: 26” x 16” x 12”
• Weight: 3.69 lbs

Osprey Aura AG 65+

If you want  a really big pack for backpacking,   the Aura AG  is one of the best women’s specific hiking backpacks around . The AG in the name stands for anti Gravity – the technology of the harness and back panel. They are both covered with suspended air mesh, which makes the backpack remarkably breathable and very comfortable to wear.

The  entire harness is adjustable, so it should be rather easy to make this huge backpack fit you well. And considering how big it is, it’s actually pretty lightweight at only 4.26 lbs. Even the hip belt padding is adjustable on the Aura 65, and it can extend up to 6” for the best fit.

This is a top-loading hiking backpack, with a rather huge main compartment, and can easily fit enough clothes for a couple of weeks inside this beast. The backpack features  a floating pocket  –  the top lid can be removed and used as a daypack . There’s an integrated  FlapJacket cover, for lidless use of the pack.

This pack is designed for backpacking, so get features like a hydration sleeve, ice axe loops, and trekking pole attachment points. However, those are very versatile and you can use them however you like – the hydration sleeve can always double as a laptop sleeve.

The Aura AG features dual hip belt pockets, stretch side pockets, a stretch mesh pocket on the front, and dual zippered top lid pockets. All of this allows for  easy organization , which is very important with backpacks that are this big.

• Best for long trips
• Comfortable and ventilated suspensions system
• Adjustable harness and backpanel
• Not available in a smaller size
• Dimensions: 31” x 15” x 16”
• Weight: 4.26 lbs
• Capacity: 65 liters

Thule Landmark Travel Pack

In case you’re looking for a really large backpack, the Thule Landmark is a good option.  It is  a women’s specific backpac k   with an overall capacity of 70 liters.  The Landmark actually  consists of two backpacks – the main backpack with 50 liters and the detachable day pack with a capacity of 20 liters.

The daypack will really come in handy if you’re going backpacking – it allows you to leave most of your luggage in the hotel room, and go exploring only with a small basic daypack on your shoulders.

The Landmark has  a comfortable and ventilated back panel and harness.  It features a  sternum strap and a hip belt, for your carrying comfort. And the s houlder harness is easily adjustable  – pretty important for a backpack this size.

Even though it’s pretty huge, it won’t be difficult to organize your belongings in it. For one thing, you have  two main compartments  to pack in. And then you also have  a ton of smaller pockets and other compartments. There’s the dedicated laptop sleeve, multiple internal pockets, a zippered side pocket, and a top pocket with an organizer panel and a key clip.

Another great feature of this backpack is that you can attach the daypack to the shoulder straps of the main pack, kangaroo-style. This makes takes some load off your back and is a little more secure when you’re walking through unknown cities.

Overall, if you’re in need of a really big pack for backpacking, the Landmark is without a doubt one of your best options.

• Detachable daypack
• Multiple pockets and compartments
• Dimensions: 19.3” x 13” x 24.8”
• Weight: 4.56 lbs
• Capacity: 70 liters

Women’s Travel Backpacks Comparison Table

What to look for.

The following are some of the most important things you should look at when exploring all the travel backpacks for women. The exact things that are important are obviously specific to you, however, these should help you get started narrowing down your choice.

Women’s Vs. Unisex

Ladies, I’m sure you’re well aware by now just how many various companies try to take advantage of us by selling us “women-specific” products. Razors, shower gels, lotions, and so many other items tend to be more expensive for us than they are for men. Which is ridiculous.

But that’s not always the case. When it comes to these backpacks, there are certain palpable differences between the men’s and women’s versions.  The backpacks that are designed for women tend to be a couple of inches narrower and have a shorter torso.  The  shoulder straps are also shaped a bit differently, to better fit the contours and curves of a female body.

In addition to that,  the backpacks that I will show you here are priced exactly the same for both ladies and gents.  And that’s a huge bonus – and also a clear sign that they’re not trying to take advantage of you by selling you a pink version of the same thing for more money.

I will also show you some unisex backpacks – these don’t have any gender-specific features and are always thoroughly adjustable.  You can shorten the torso if you need, and tighten all the straps as much as it suits you.

So, if you really care about getting a backpack designed for women, check the mini-reviews to see whether it’s a lady’s version or a unisex pack.

Backpack Size And Capacity

Anything can be a travel backpack.  A good small daypack can easily be your favorite carry-on, and a large hiking backpack can be a great option for backpacking through Europe.  But I will mostly focus on showing you proper packs for travel – at least when it comes to the smaller sizes.

In general, women’s travel backpacks are usually medium in size. They are small enough that they can pass as carry-on luggage, and have just enough capacity for all your travel necessities. Most of them have at least a laptop sleeve, and some will even feature dedicated pockets for your tablet and smartphone.

If this is exactly what you are looking for, you will find several options in the first section of this review. There I will show you  smaller packs that are great for shorter trips, or just as carry-ons.  Some of the packs will have a women’s specific design, and others will be unisex.

And then  there are also big packs, with much larger capacities.  These backpacks are great for ladies that are ready to give up on their suitcases and carry all of their luggage on their back. Most of these packs are designed for backpacking, but some are also very versatile hiking backpacks.

These packs are great if you’re going away for a really long time and you need something large for all of your travel gear. But because they are not proper travel backpacks, I won’t focus on them too much.  You will find a couple of great options in the last section of the review.

Extra Features

There are a few other features you might care about, so be careful to check for those in each of the backpacks you like the looks of. Things like external mesh pockets (for drink bottles), organization pockets for all your travel accessories, a rain cover for carrying your stuff in wet weather, and perhaps whether the straps are stowable (which makes for easier travel).

Best Travel Backpacks For Women: The Top Options

Well, that was a lot of backpacks. And if you’re having a hard time choosing just one, you can just go for our top options. Here are three of the best travel backpack for women that we always include in our top travel tips newsletter.

Out of all the carry-on backpacks, I think that The North Face Router is easily your best option. It has a large capacity for a carry-on and  several different compartments and pockets that allow you to organize your stuff.

The laptop compartment is TSA-friendly , and it will help you breeze through checkpoints. And it is comfortable to wear, thanks to the  FlexVent suspension system and all the padding in the back panel and harness

If you need something a bit bigger, go for the Osprey Fairview . It’s a long-time favorite of travelers and for very good reasons. It is still carry-on sized with its 40-liter capacity, and it is made from very durable, water-resistant materials.

The pack has sleeves for both your tablet and laptop, in addition to  several pockets and a very spacious packing compartment.  And with the  peripheral frame and padded and ventilated back panel and harness , it feels very comfortable on your back.

• Large, lockable U-zip duffel-style access to main compartment - 40L total volume
• Meets carry-on size restrictions for most airlines (Size X-Small/Small: 19.3H X 13.8W X 8D inches)

Maybe you’re looking for  a large backpack; something you can easily use for backpacking?  In that case, I suggest   the Thule Landmark .  The pack has  a total capacity of 70 liters, which is divided between the main pack and the detachable daypack .

The harness and the back panel are padded, ventilated, and adjustable  throughout, which promises great carrying comfort. Additionally,  both packs have loads of pockets and several compartments that allow for easy organization of your belongings.

• An extended-travel adventure backpack with a women's-specific fit
• SafeZone compartment protects a phone, sunglasses and small valuables

And those would be our top three picks for travel backpacks for women on any trip. But you can honestly grab any one of the packs in this review – all of them are rated very highly by happy travelers. Head over to Amazon to check out the prices of all the packs featured here.

In case you’re not really happy with the packs I showed you, check out our related posts. Maybe you’ll find the right backpack for you in one of them.

RELATED POSTS BEST BACKPACKS FOR TRAVEL IN EUROPE BEST OSPREY BACKPACKS FOR WOMEN

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The 9 BEST Travel Backpacks for Women – I Tested Them All!

03/20/2024 by Kristin Addis 2 Comments

I’ve been traveling for the majority of the past 11 years, sometimes fully nomadic for 10 months at a time. Over the years, I’ve tested quite a few travel backpacks, and while some may look pretty, it really comes down to durability, functionality, and bang for my buck when I think about my favorite women’s travel backpacks.

I’ve tested every single one on this list myself, in many cases, for a decade or more. These are the best travel backpacks out there for women:

• Most convenient pockets: Pakt Travel Backpack
• Smartest: Nordace Siena
• Sturdiest: Baggallini
• Best anti-theft: Pacsafe X Travel Safe
• Best for carry-on only travel: REI Co-op Ruckpack 40L
• Most stylish: Monos
• Best for outdoors: Deuter Aircontact 45+10
• Best waterproof: Exped Typhoon

Table of Contents

1. Pakt Travel Backpack

I’ve been using the Pakt Travel Backpack for nearly four years now, yet it still looks like the day I got it. I initially received this backpack as part of a social media project, but it quickly became my ride or die carry on for all of my electronics.

The main reason is how easy it is to access the pockets, particularly for one’s laptop while in airport security. You can unzip the entire thing like a suitcase, or just unzip the top for quick access to the laptop sleeve. Security-wise, though the zippers don’t lock, the laptop is in the middle of the bag and would be hard to swipe. There are also hidden pockets going in just about every direction, and it makes organization for disorganized people (like me) simple. There’s an all-important waist strap, and thick backpack straps, which helps it stay comfortable despite how heavy mine always is.

It’s not the prettiest on this list, but it’s the one I reach for almost every time for how sturdy and easy it is to use. Read my full Pakt travel backpack review for more info.

2. Baggallini

The Pakt is more what I would call a masculine looking bag, though it fits the female frame well. But if you’re looking for something a bit more stylish, Baggallini’s bags have a bunch of features and stand the test of time. Each ‘bagg’ has RFID blocking pockets, they’re made from lightweight nylon material, many of them, including this backpack , are expandable, and when I shared about bringing them on our winter Japan trip on my Instagram, I got so many DMs and comments from Baggallini lovers saying theirs had lasted for years. I’ve been using mine for about a year, and it’s great. It’s also reasonably priced at $130.

They don’t have as much structure as some of the other bags on this list, so if you’re looking for something to hold delicate items like electronics, it’s probably not ideal, but it would work well for a laptop or tablet and a single camera, among other important carry-on items. Read my full Baggallini review for more on all of their bags.

3. REI Co-op Ruckpack 40 Pack

I bought this bag back in 2012 when I was about to embark on my big solo trip to Thailand , which was the start of this entire blog. I traveled carry-on only with this backpack for over a year, and have used it extensively since, and not a single part of it has broken. This thing is truly a tank.

The only downside is my laptop would be in the water bladder sleeve in the inside of the bag, which meant I had to dig in order to get it out in security lines. Still, this backpack is over a decade old and still kicking! It doesn’t have all the pockets and features of the Pakt or the style of the Monos (later on this list) or Baggallini, but it got me through a full year of being a nomad without even flinching. It also works well for hiking shorter trails as a hiking backpack . At $169, I’m of the opinion that it’s a steal.

4. Nordace Seina

The Nordace Siena is a ‘smart backpack’ with the ability to charge your electronics with the built-in USB charger, along with a water-resistant exterior to keep your belongings dry in unpredictable weather.

The ergonomic design and padded straps make it super comfortable to wear for long periods, whether you’re hiking through the airport or strolling through city streets. And priced competitively (at $109), it’s a smart investment for those who need to stay charged and connected when they travel. It also looks super classy and comes in a wide range of colors from classic red or black to pink, aqua, and dark green. Read our full Nordace Siena review for more.

I’ve also done a full comparison of Pacsafe vs. Nordace .

5. Pacsafe X Anti Theft 20 Backpack

Back when I first started traveling in 2012, I bought Pacsafe all the things. I was even a brand ambassador with them for a few years since I was so passionate about the products. When staying in hostels , there’s nothing that gave me better peace of mind than using their bag locker , and I loved that the zippers could all be hooked and hidden on the backpacks. The 20L anti theft backpack was the most useful for me as a carry-on, and features RFID blocking technology as well as anti-slash material, hidden pockets, and zipper hooks that make a quick pick-pocketing impossible. For those traveling in Europe , particularly in Spain or Italy , this is a must.

They also make many sizes, including a 55L backpack I still love and use, and crossbody bags with the same anti-theft technology.

6. Monos Metro Backpack

Easily the most stylish on this list, the Monos Metro Backpack and Duffel comes in a wide variety of colors, including bright yellow, sage green, and purple, in addition to the usual suspects like black and beige.

It features a minimalist exterior with clean lines and a durable water-resistant shell, perfect for both urban explorations and as a flight carry on.

Inside, you’ll find a surprisingly spacious main compartment with a padded laptop sleeve as well as detachable front pouch with a whole organization system. From a quick-access front pocket for your phone and wallet to interior pockets for smaller items like keys and chargers, everything has its utility.

It also pairs perfectly with Monos luggage , sliding onto the handle with ease. I love this combo for when I want to arrive looking chic.

7. Exped Typhoon

I switched to the Exped Typhoon for a while when I was doing more hiking and backpacking, especially if it was a day hike where I might experience rain (hello, Patagonia !), it also gave me more peace of mind when traveling on smaller boats in Indonesia where your bag is basically just resting on top of the deck getting splashed. If you truly want your stuff to be in a bag that’s not just ‘water resistant’ but fully waterproof when properly rolled and sealed, this is the one.

I would probably have used it forever, but I started to worry about my electronics getting jostled since there’s really no insulation or padding. It also lacks any kind of pockets or organization system, so I’d have to just stack things in there. That said, I really appreciated it truly kept things dry. It comes in many sizes as well from 15 to 30 liters .

8. Osprey Fairview 40 Women’s Travel Backpack:

Now, let’s talk about the Osprey Fairview 40 Women’s Travel Backpack . As a female traveler, finding a backpack that fits just right can be a challenge, but Osprey has nailed it with this one. It’s also front-load and looks a little more stylish than the REI.

The women-specific design means it contours to my body comfortably, even when fully loaded. It’s got all the features I need for long-term travel, including a stowaway harness and detachable daypack. And at a mid-range price point, it’s a solid investment for that lasts. We love their hiking backpack carrier as well now that we have a toddler.

9. Deuter Aircontact Core 45+10 Backpack:

If you’re planning an extended backpacking trip, the Deuter Aircontact Backpack is worth considering. With its generous capacity and adjustable suspension system, it’s designed to comfortably carry heavy loads for days on end.

The ventilated back panel keeps you cool and dry, even in hot and humid climates, while the integrated rain cover ensures your gear stays dry in wet weather. And while it’s on the higher end ($230) in terms of pricing, the durability and performance make it a worthwhile investment for serious travelers and hikers alike. I just might have to give our Deuter backpack carrier the edge over the Osprey!

My Favorite Travel Backpack

Right now, the bag I’m still loyal to is the Pakt . It’s been my main bag for over four years. It may be one of the pricier bags on this list, but there’s a reason it goes out of stock so often – people love how well this bag holds up and how intelligently it’s designed. After all the punishment I’ve put it through, it doesn’t show any signs of wear. My second place is the REI Co-op ruckpack . It may not be as stylish as some of the others, but when it comes to products that last, it does!

*Some links in this post are affiliate links that support us at no extra cost to you when you purchase through them. We only recommend products we love and use ourselves. Your trust always comes first!

About Kristin Addis

Kristin Addis is the founder and CEO of Be My Travel Muse, a resource for female travelers all around the world since 2012. She's traveled solo to over 65 countries and has brought over 150 women on her all-female adventure tours from Botswana to the Alaskan tundra.

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Sharib says

08/13/2024 at 2:25 pm

Thanks for your review, very helpful. I am looking at the Nordace Siena Pro and saw your comment about the USB port but no charger. Can you tell me how this works? As you mentioned the website does not spell this out. Do you need to connect the port in the back pack to the charger? Thanks

Kristin Addis says

08/14/2024 at 6:32 am

Yes there’s a pocket where you can put a portable power bank and connect it to the cord. It’s really just a cord that is threaded through the bag.

The 14 Best Travel Backpacks for When You Need All the Pockets and Storage Space

If you’ve been hanging on to your trusty college backpack for years, and travel is in your near future (or even if it’s not), here’s your sign that it’s time for an upgrade. The best travel backpacks have specific features that make them comfortable to wear, easy to organize , and sturdy enough for carrying your laptop or tablet (or both).

• 01 suitcase vs. backpack
• 02 how to choose a travel backpack
• 03 best travel backpack

Best travel backpacks, at a glance

• Best for everyday use: Lo & Sons, The Beacon Backpack, $179
• Most functional: Samsonite, Detour Travel Backpack, $104
• Best compact: Tumi, Voyageur Just in Case Nylon Travel Backpack, $125
• Best for commuting: Athleta, Excursion Backpack, $119 
• Most ergonomic: The North Face, Borealis Backpack, $99
• Best for overnight trips: Kroser, Laptop Backpack, $40
• Most eco-friendly: Everlane, The ReNew Transit Backpack, $95
• Best basic: Madewell, The Rush Hour Backpack, $100
• Most sporty: Lululemon, City Adventurer 17L Backpack, $128
• Best anti-theft: Baggallini, Securtex Anti-Theft Vacation Backpack, $110
• Best for electronics: SwissGear, Laptop and USB Power Plug Backpack, $120
• Most stylish: Troubador, Ridge Explorer Backpack, $325
• Best double-duty: Cotopaxi, Allpa Del Dia Travel Pack, $210
• Best duffel backpack: Baboon To The Moon, Go-Bag Mini, $169

Is it better to travel with a suitcase or backpack?

Whether you choose a suitcase or a backpack is a matter of personal preference, but the advantage of a backpack is that it leaves your hands free. What’s more, if you’re going on a quick trip and don’t want to check a bag , using a large enough travel backpack as your carry-on can help lighten the load and avoid baggage claim. Travel backpacks are a smart choice for longer trips, too. If you’re already lugging a shoulder bag and pulling a wheeled suitcase , it can be cumbersome to add another rolling bag behind you—not with a backpack, though.

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How to choose a travel backpack

First, consider size. If you’re traveling for a weekend or longer, you might want one that’s small enough to fit in an overhead bin or underneath a seat. If you’re looking for a larger backpack, you might want one that offers sufficient back support , too.

In any case, you neither want a bulky nor heavy backpack that restricts movement. Those who are worried about safety might also want an option with anti-theft features like special zipper or RFID-lined pockets to protect from identity theft.

Backpacks made with travel in mind typically have features that make life easier when you’re on the go, like padded laptop sleeves for your work trips , locking zippers, wide straps to slip your bag onto a rolling suitcase handle, specialized pockets (including ones for water bottles ), and other easily accessible storage spaces.

Whatever your design preference, and whether you typically go for simple designs or styles with lots of bells and whistles, you’re sure to find something you like among these picks. (Some are even made of recycled materials!) Below, find the best travel backpacks for every need—be it a business trip, vacation , or your commute to work.

Best travel backpacks

Originally $298, now $179

Popular brand Lo & Sons has a wide selection of backpacks, including their travel-friendly Beacon Backpack. While only a little over 10 inches wide and 14 inches tall, it has a ton of compartments to organize everything you’d like to carry, including a laptop compartment (for 13-inch devices), a large front pocket, two small pockets on the back, a slip pocket for folders or papers, and six interior pockets. It also has a wide pass-through strap for putting over a rolling-suitcase handle, too.

The Beacon is water-resistant and is made from 50 percent recycled nylon with 37 percent polyester and with leather accents. Reviewers love this backpack for travel and work alike. One reviewer raved: “This is a fantastic bag/backpack! On the smaller side but cleverly designed with easy-to-use pockets and compartments that kept me organized on my trip abroad. Well made, comfortable to wear, and looks great too!”

Material: 37% recycled nylon and 50% recycled polyester

Measurements: 14”H x 10.5”W x 4.5” D

Weight: 1.6 lbs.

Capacity: 10.8L

• Various compartment types
• Pass-through strap for luggage handle
• Smaller capacity

Originally $130, now $97

Samsonite’s Detour Travel Backpack is all about functionality. It’s water resistant, and it offers easy access to all your belongings. The backpack is replete with pockets, including one for your bottle, and thanks to padded back and shoulder, it will offer you ample support while you’re on the move. Inside, you’ll find even more compartments to organize your things, with one for your laptop. Other features include: Front handles and a wide pass-through strap it offers back and shoulder support. What’s more, Samsonite offers a limited 3-year warranty.

With more than 100 5-star ratings, this backpack has earned high praise. “Someone really put a lot of thought into this backpack/overnight bag. It is fantastic and if you are any kind of traveler I would recommend it,” one reviewer wrote.

Material: Recycled fabric and polyester

Measurements: 20”H x 13”W x 9”D

Weight: 2 lbs.

Capacity: Not specified

• Water-resistant
• Padded back and shoulder straps
• Front pockets have narrow openings

Not totally sure whether you’ll need an extra bag on an upcoming trip, or just don’t like bulky backpacks in general? Tumi’s aptly named “Just In Case” backpack conveniently folds flat, so you can easily pack it in your suitcase. It could also work well if you need a small, hands-free carry-on—and it has a wide pass-through to slide over the handle of your suitcase and lighten your load. This sleek backpack is small, super light at only 0.6 pounds, and it has a large outer zip pocket, and adjustable shoulder straps.

“I bought this to use as a carry-on—it’s remarkably roomy for such a small bag!” One traveler on Amazon wrote. “I put in a sweater, a makeup bag, headphones, iPad, a little case with cords and chargers, sunglasses, travel docs, water bottle, wallet, keys, two phones—and still had a bit of room left over. The nylon is heavyweight and the gold zippers are substantial. It does not look utilitarian or outdoorsy. It really does fit into a small pouch, which is useful on its own.”

Material: Nylon

Measurements: 15.5”H x 4.5”D x 12.3”W

Weight: 0.6 lbs.

Capacity: 2.8L

• Not as structured as other options

Athleta has more to offer than great sports bras and athleisure. They also have a few highly-rated bags and wallets, for example, including this backpack. It’s made with recycled nylon and polyester, and it features a front zip pocket for your keys, phone, or wallet, side pockets, and on the inside, a roomy main compartment for your laptop. It has a mesh back panel to keep you cool and comfortable when you’re on the move, as well as adjustable straps. Plus, it isn’t too bulky either.

“Perfect size and functionality, as I wanted something for quick trips and not a big old backpack,” one happy customer wrote. “Compact with lots of great little pockets and compartments.”

Material: Recycled nylon and recycled polyester

Measurements: 15”H x 9”W x 3”D

Weight: Not specified

• Roomy main compartment
• Mesh back panel and adjustable straps
• Some reviewer say they wish it had more compartments

Rugged-looking and available in a ton of colors, this backpack is designed for women (as opposed to the brand’s original Borealis pack). Fortunately, The North Face didn’t simply add “women’s” to the product name, make it pink, and jack up the price—although there are pink and pink-and-black options available, plus a pretty pink print. This women’s backpack costs the same as the regular version. Its “FlexVent” suspension system is tailored to a woman’s body and is certified by the American Chiropractic Association. This recycled-nylon, water-repellent backpack’s many features include a padded tablet sleeve, laptop sleeve, and water bottle pocket.

Amazon reviewers frequently mention using this backpack for school, college, hiking, and/or work, but many customers also love it for travel. To wit: “This backpack is so versatile. It is spacious, yet compact. It is comfortable and stylish. There is literally a place for everything. I use this as a carry-on for airplane travel with packing cubes for organization and it is perfect,” one reviewer wrote.

Measurements: 18.75”H x 12”W x 6.75”D

Capacity: 27L

• Padded back panel
• Waist belt and sternum strap for support
• Made specifically for women
• On the bulky side

This slim but roomy backpack has earned over 11,700 5-star reviews on Amazon. It’s even professional enough for work. There are many compartments—a dedicated laptop sleeve that can hold up to a 17.3-inch laptop, organizational pockets, and a compartment where you can fit some clothes for an overnight trip. There’s a pass-through strap so you can hook it over a suitcase handle, side pockets to hold water bottles, and a built-in USB port.

“This bag looks fantastic and is very well made. It has a lot of padding so it is comfortable to carry,” one Amazon reviewer wrote. “I was able to fit everything I need for an overnight business trip into a single bag and not have an additional carryon bag.”

Material: Water-repellent fabric

Measurements: 18.5”H x 13.3”W x 7.8”D

Weight: 2.6 lbs.

• Water repellent
• Large laptop compartment
• Back is only partially padded

This backpack is part of Everlane’s ReNew collection, which features shoes, bags, outerwear, and activewear made from recycled polyester and nylon from plastic bottles, textiles, and fishing nets—and it’s perfect for carrying everything you need on the go. This particular travel backpack is 100% recycled polyester. It has an unusual but interesting structure for a backpack, with plenty of pockets. It also has spaces designed for a 15-inch laptop, water bottles, passports, tickets, magazines and notebooks, aswell as a luggage-handle strap.

Material: 100% recycled polyester

Measurements: 17.5”H x 12”W x 7.25”D

• Made from 100 percent recycled polyester
• Water resistant
• Many compartments
• Not ideal for those who want a backpack with more structure

Originally 148, now $100

Madewell makes several backpack styles, and this travel-friendly backpack is made with a combination of strong ripstop nylon and stylish suede. It is sturdy, lightweight, and packed with pockets. The backpack has an inner laptop sleeve, as well as outer side pockets, a sizable front pocket, and lightly padded shoulder straps.

Material: Ripstop nylon and suede

Measurements: 16 ½”H x 12 ¼”W x 6”D

• Lightly padded straps
• Side and front pockets
• Made from strong ripstop nylon
• Minimal organizational compartments

Lululemon has few backpacks in its City Adventurer line, and this 20-liter-sized option is one of them. The backpack is made from water-repellent fabric and has reinforced straps. The laptop pocket is padded and can fit devices up to 16 inches in size (giving it a bigger compartment than many backpacks). It also has handy pockets, including an expandable one for clothes. (The company suggests using that one for “your sweaty gear,” but bear in mind that the bag isn’t machine washable!)

One Lululemon customer wrote: “Holds a lot. Not bulky. Decent in the rain [and] can be wiped clean! Very nice sleek look, yet sporty! I love it for travel!”

Measurements: 16.1”H x 11.4”W x 7.1”D

Capacity: 20L

• Padded laptop sleeve
• Shoe compartment
• Not machine washable

The safety features on this backpack will offer you more peace of mind while traveling. It features slash-resistant fabric and cut-resistant straps, locking zippers, and RFID-lined pockets. The backpack also has a pocket that’s hidden against your back when you wear it, among others. Plus, there’s a small opening for headphone or earbud wires. The material is water-resistant, so you won’t have to worry about wearing it in weather.

One of the 500-plus 5-star reviews on Amazon reads, “Bought for trip to Greece. I’m small (5 ft.) and wanted something smallish, lightweight, and secure. This fit the bill perfectly. Was great to carry water bottles and other essentials while sightseeing and it held what I needed on the flight.”

Material: Polyester

Measurement: 13”H x 10”W x 3.5”D

Weight: 1.2 lbs.

Capacity: 7.5L

• Anti-theft features like RFID-blocking technology and locking zippers
• Lots of pockets
• Straps aren’t padded

SwissGear parent company Wenger also makes Swiss Army knives, so it’s not surprising that this bag is super functional. It boasts tons of features you won’t find in a typical travel backpack, such as shoe storage, a crush-resistant sunglasses compartment, ergonomically contoured straps, a ventilated back panel, insulated water bottle pockets, and designated pockets for your cell phone, ID card, memory stick, and pens. It even has a USB port for charging your devices (battery pack not included). Its more common features include a padded laptop pocket, padded tablet pocket, water bottle pocket, and luggage-handle strap. Bonus: SwissGear provides a 5-year warranty.

After more than 250 reviews on Target, this backpack has earned a 4.5-star rating. One reviewer shared, “This is the best backpack I have ever owned. It is a beast! I was able to fill it with two days of clothes, a computer, chargers, toiletries, a book, snacks, a wallet, and more, and flew without having to roll a bag, or check any luggage.”

Measurements: 18.5”H x 12”W x 8”D

Capacity: 24.7L

• Padded straps
• USB power port
• Lots of pockets, including a crush-resistant compartment for glasses
• Some reviewers say it won’t always sit upright

If you’re a traveler who is tired of digging through your bag to find stuff on the road, this pocket-friendly backpack is for you. The Troubador Ridge Explorer has a space for quite literally everything, so you’ll never lose your AirPods or charging cable again.

The 25-liter body is large enough for storing your main belongings, keeping them safe and cushioned while you’re on the go. There’s also a plethora of pockets: three large main ones in the front for organizing your wallet, headphones, and other personal items, two retractable water bottle holders on the sides, and a 16-inch padded laptop zipper for your computer. Layer on the classy design and chic leather detailing and you couldn’t ask for a better commuter backpack.

Material: Recycled polyester

Measurements: 18.5”H x 12”W x 7”D

Weight: 2.8 lbs.

Capacity: 25L

• Waterproof fabric and zippers
• Breathable back panel
• Sleek design

The Cotopaxi Allpa Del Dia Travel Pack doubles as a packing cube, making it ideal for short and long trips. It has a clamshell design that falls open into two halves when unzipped, much like a suitcase. On one side is a large zippered mesh compartment, and on the other are two zippered mesh compartments. According to one reviewer, it is sizable enough to hold two week’s-worth of clothes and essentials, including toiletries and electronics. Outside, you’ll also find a few more compartments—a smaller zippered pocket on the front, a zippered padded laptop sleeve on the back that’s perfect for storing devices up to 15 inches, and a side pocket for your water bottle. It’s replete with wide shoulder and hip straps to help you carry the load.

While the pack itself isn’t water resistant, it comes with a rain cover, making it suitable for outdoor adventures or wet climates. You can wear it as a backpack, or attach the shoulder strap to wear it like a messenger bag. To add to its appeal, it’s made of 100 percent repurposed nylon fabric, so each bag is unique to its owner.

Material: 100% repurposed nylon

Measurements: 21.5”H x 13”W x 9”D

Weight: 4 lbs.

Capacity: 42L

• Includes a rain cover
• Multiple ways to wear it
• Made of 100 percent repurposed fabric

A true workhorse, the Baboon To the Moon Go-Bag converts to a backpack but fits as much as a small carry-on suitcase. For reference, the 32-liter option can fit about three day’s-worth of clothes. The waterproof shell protects the duffel from the elements while keeping it lightweight. It has a roomy main compartment replete with three zippered compartments for your essentials, plus an exterior zippered compartment to keep valuables, like your phone, wallet, passport, and keys close at hand. It’s also surprisingly lightweight considering all the duffel backpack can carry. (It weighs a little over 3 pounds). The adjustable straps make it comfortable to wear as a backpack, but you also have the option to carry it as a briefcase if you so please. You can shop it in a wide range of colors and in two other sizes—a 40-liter version and a larger 60-liter option.

“I love my Go-Bag so much!” proclaimed one reviewer. “I was a little hesitant due to the price, but this bag is the only thing I ever need for my little excursions. It’s perfect for weeks away from home or even just two or three days. I adore this bag and love the color I bought it in as well!”

Material: PVC and polyester

Measurements: 9.5”H x 18.5”W x 12”D

Weight: 3.2 lbs.

Capacity: 32L

• Roomy yet lightweight
• Available in multiple sizes
• Lifetime warranty
• Not as many compartments

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The 12 Best Mini Backpacks in 2023 [Stylish, Lightweight]

Amar Hussain

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Table of Contents

Things to consider when buying a mini backpack, the 12 best mini backpacks, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our  Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

On occasions when you need a hands-free storage compartment in a compact size, mini backpacks can offer the best of both worlds. These days, they are back in style, and you can find numerous brands producing them with different features.

From zipped pockets to internal compartments and waterproof materials, mini backpacks are perfect for everything from brunch to traveling.

We’ll also be discussing some of the main pointers to keep in mind when buying a mini backpack, so you can find the right one for you.

Before you buy a mini backpack, there are several crucial things to consider. From the size to the number of storage compartments and outside pockets, mini backpacks have varying usability features.

The material also plays a factor, as you might benefit from waterproof or water-resistant options. You can also look for backpacks with padded belts or straps and a reinforced back to comfortably fit and protect the contents.

Here’s a detailed overview of the most important things to keep in mind when buying a mini backpack:

Sometimes the simplest options are the best ones, especially when it comes to a compact backpack. In general, luxury materials are not required, so a simple plastic zipper is often the best choice . Some backpacks have reinforced metal zippers, but heavy-duty zippers can snag.

Outside Pockets

Having a large inner compartment is one thing, but what about pockets? Every mini backpack worth its salt will have zipped pockets , which provide the best storage space for personal items such as sunglasses, phones, or earbuds.

If you are going to place something heavier into the inner compartment — like a tablet or even a pocketbook — you need to have additional side pockets. This way, your smaller items will be protected from tumbling around and possibly getting damaged.

Multiple Compartments

Besides zipped pockets, another great way of preserving your items within a backpack is to find one with multiple compartments. A mini backpack with several inner compartments will allow for the separation of larger items and smaller items .

Bottom Line: Different compartments allow for proper organization, and some backpacks even have smaller zipped pockets inside. This will help protect fragile items from damage.

Compact Size

What makes mini backpacks so great is that they are half the size of regular backpacks . They are a stylish, lightweight accessory that can replace your purse for storing your essentials.

The usual size of mini backpacks is in the range of 12 inches in length and 10 inches wide, but it greatly varies depending on the brand and the model.

One of the best things about mini backpacks is that there’s a wide range of brands and materials to choose from. To help you narrow down your choice, we’ve compiled a list of our top picks for mini backpacks.

Our list includes a little something to suit everyone’s preferences, so you’re bound to find something you like.

1. Sporty Mini Backpack for Women

Adidas women’s linear mini backpack small travel bag.

This quality mini backpack comes in 5 color variants, from pastel to black. It’s a solid choice in terms of comfort with a padded back and wide straps.

You also get reinforced shoulder straps and 1 large zipped pocket on the outside with a plastic zipper . It has premium branded webbing and is made of breathable materials for maximum comfort.

The small dimensions measure 10.5 inches in length and just 8.5 inches wide, which makes it one of the most compact options available. Inside, you get 1 large storage compartment and an additional pouch for smaller items. The most appealing color options are rose gold and jersey gray.

What We Like

• Extremely compact option

What We Don’t Like

• Doesn’t have side pockets

2. Ergonomic Mini Backpack for Travel

Fjallraven kanken mini classic backpack.

Featuring an iconic utilitarian style loaded with practicality, the Fjallraven Kanken backpack comes from a heritage brand with a long history. It’s fully equipped for longer journeys with adjustable comfy shoulder straps and a unique ergonomic back design .

This mini backpack also provides plenty of storage space with 2 side pockets and 1 large zipped compartment on the front. It’s a 100% vinyl backpack made with the contours of the original Kanken backpack.

It even has top handles that you can use to carry it by hand. As you open it, you will see a large storage capacity suitable even for some tablets. With 7 liters of capacity and dimensions of 11.4 inches by 8 inches, it provides a roomy interior in a compact package.

• Unique ergonomic design
• The simple look might not be to everyone’s taste

Hot Tip: If you need a bit more space, consider our detailed guide to the best travel backpacks for men and women .

3. Classic Travel Mini Backpack

Herschel classic backpack black.

If you want as much as 9 liters of capacity, Herschel’s classic backpack is a great choice. It’s a casual classic-looking mini backpack with a padded inside compartment , and it weighs only 0.02 pounds when empty.

It’s a perfect lightweight and compact option for shorter trips and can even be used as carry-on luggage. It has 1 large front zipped pocket on the outside and adjustable shoulder straps.

With a standard mini backpack shape, all the weight will be distributed at the reinforced bottom, leaving your shoulders free from too much pressure.

• Designer quality
• No separate inner compartments

4. Vegan Leather Mini Backpack

Barsine small backpack vegan leather everyday mini bag.

If you’re looking for a modern mini backpack that’s both practical and a stylish accessory, Barsine’s leather bag might just be the one for you. It’s a fully customizable option with a removable strap that converts it from a backpack into a shoulder bag .

The capacity of this backpack is impressive with all the outer pockets it includes. The large front pocket even includes a smaller diagonal zipped pocket integrated into the front of it. There are 2 pockets on the sides as well, along with the large inner compartment.

Finally, a hidden zipped back pocket completes the storage and provides a compartment for your most important items. Despite its variety of storage compartments, it’s a small-size bag at 11 inches in length and 9.8 inches in width.

• A large number of outside pockets
• Leather material might retain heat in the summertime

5. Small Polyester Backpack for Teens

Loomiloo durable small backpack for women.

One of the best mini backpacks for teens is this small polyester backpack featuring unique patterns. Teen girls will love it thanks to the engaging and fun designs that are not always found in a compact travel backpack.

On top of that, it’s quite useful with double-layered side pockets and a large zipped compartment on the front. The adjustable shoulder straps only make it more convenient and customizable. However, it only measures 8.2 inches by 4.7 inches, which makes it one of the smallest backpacks on this list.

• Compact and designed for teens
• Doesn’t offer much storage capacity

6. Mini Backpack With PETA-approved Leather

Ihayner mini backpack purse for girls.

This is another great mini backpack for teen girls. It’s a unique blend of feminine design and a portable accessory for storing makeup, phones, or even larger items like tablets.

It’s a leather backpack with a fluffy pom-pom ball and a front pendant for customizable decoration . The adjustable shoulder straps are also beautifully designed.

That’s not all that this backpack has to offer. It’s also made with PETA-approved waterproof vegan leather and 3 outside pockets in addition to the large zipped compartment.

• The fluffy pom-pom addition
• Only comes in single-color designs

Hot Tip: Consider our picks for the best kids’ travel backpacks in our detailed guide.

7. Great Backpack Option for Kids

Ledaou mini backpack girls cute small backpack purse.

If you are shopping for a compact backpack for your kids, this small shoulder pack for girls may just be the ultimate choice. It’s best suited to smaller children than to teens, given the dimensions and patterns.

It’s available in dual colors, sunflower patterns, and other color schemes to make it more appealing to children. The appeal isn’t only surface level, as it comes in 10-inch-by-10-inch dimensions and can fit an iPad of the same size.

It’s made from a durable nylon and polyester blend with multiple compartments. It has 1 smaller zipper pocket on the inside, a larger padded pocket for tablets, card pockets, and a large inner compartment. Because of this and the large outside zipped pocket, it easily fits a phone, charger, tablet, and bottle of water.

• 5 different internal compartments
• Some of the colorways are a bit out there

8. Unisex Mini Backpack for Travel Essentials

Carhartt mini backpack everyday essentials daypack.

One mini backpack that offers a great level of usability is Carhartt’s daypack, which features an elongated design . It’s a unique find among mini backpacks as it offers an innovative design with increased capacity in a seemingly neutral and casual pack.

It’s an 11.7-inch-long pack with a large storage compartment inside. On the front of this waterproof backpack, you will find a fleece-lined pocket for securing your valuables and sensitive items, while the interior features a zippered mesh pocket.

The adjustable webbing shoulder straps and haul handle make it easy to carry, adding to the practicality of this bag.

• Mini backpack with a focus on capacity
• Comes only in solid colors

9. High-capacity Sporty Daypack

Nike brasilia “just do it” mini backpack.

One of the best unisex mini backpacks for kids is Nike’s Brasilia daypack. It’s a standard compact backpack with 10-inch-by-8-inch dimensions that’s a perfect fit for children. It has a large zipped compartment suitable even for sports gear .

In addition, the outside zipped pocket can fit some essentials, and the padded shoulder straps make it durable and comfortable. This backpack is made from woven polyester, and the material blend along with capacity ensures that you can carry heavier items.

• Heavy-duty compact backpack
• Only comes in a black

10. Compact Nylon Backpack With Multiple Pockets

Kaierwoke small nylon backpack mini casual lightweight daypack.

This casual mini backpack is perfect for your everyday essentials and even for travel with 3 inner pockets and 5 outer pockets. It’s made from environmentally friendly waterproof nylon fabric and has a wider base for accommodating more items.

The external zipped pocket is capable of supporting book-size items. The inner storage includes 1 large compartment, a zipped pocket, a phone pocket, and an ID or wallet pocket . The outside includes side pockets for maximum practicality and a double-slider zipper on the main compartment.

A sturdy top handle makes it easier for hand carrying, while padded shoulder straps provide a comfortable fit. This backpack is one of the best options out there due to reinforced stitching and a wide base that’s capable of supporting heavy loads.

• Plentiful pockets and reinforced stitching
• It might be a bit larger than standard mini backpacks

11. Handmade Cotton Backpack

Core hemp mini backpack.

Looking for something more unique in a mini backpack? Perhaps the Core Hemp handmade backpack is the best choice for you. It’s a vegan boho bag that’s handmade out of 100% Nepalese organic cotton with maximum attention to detail.

It has adjustable straps, 1 outside zipped pocket, and a large inner storage compartment. Other than that, it’s extremely lightweight, so you can use it both for travel and for everyday occasions. The size measures 11 inches in length and 10 inches wide, so it can also fit quite a few items.

• Handmade from organic cotton
• It isn’t suitable for heavy loads

12. Durable Backpack For Everyday Use

Dickies mini backpack one size black.

This Dickies mini backpack is the perfect option for those looking for extra room, as it features a 10-liter capacity in the inside compartment . It also comes with an external zipped pocket and adjustable shoulder straps for a customizable fit.

The reinforced padded interior makes this backpack a perfect option for carrying a small laptop or other fragile items. In addition, the top-loading compartment is spacious enough to fit larger items.

It’s a universal pack that’s perfect for anything from traveling to running errands.

• Large top-loading compartment
• Doesn’t have any side pockets or external water pockets

Overall, our list of the best mini backpacks should serve you well by providing you with a variety of options with unique features. You can find everything from large-capacity bags like the Dickies backpack to handmade lightweight cotton packs like the Core Hemp option.

It all comes down to personal preference, and our guide will make the search for your perfect mini backpack painless.

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17 Best Travel Backpacks for Women [2024]: Traveler's Picks!

Female travelers looking for the best travel backpack look no further. Keep reading below for 10 of the best travel backpacks for women!

Whether you're jet-setting for business, living the digital nomad dream, or chasing adventures with nothing but a backpack—finding your ultimate travel companion is non-negotiable.

You don't just want any old rucksack, right? I'm talking spacious enough to sneak in that last-minute duty-free purchase, built-in pockets for your indispensable gadgets, and those game-changing locking zippers because, let's face it, pickpockets are sneaky!

And what about something that's not talked about a lot? Body ergonomics! As a woman on the move, you need a backpack that fits well, offers support in the right places, and is comfortable.

Many quality travel backpacks are crafted just for our female physique—kiss those shoulder strains goodbye!

Whether gliding through TSA or exploring winding streets in a foreign city, your ideal backpack isn't just a carry-all—it's an extension of your unstoppable, fashionable self.

Sound like a tall order? Don't stress! Kick back and scroll on because I've rounded up 10 of the top travel backpacks that a woman can spend their hard earned money on. Ready to find out why each one is a game-changer? Let's dive in!

Whether you're a backpacker, business traveler, or digital nomad, finding the perfect travel backpack is fundamental. Special considerations like laptop space and locking zippers are just a few of the must-haves in a quality travel backpack.

What to Look For in a Travel Backpack

Before deciding on the best travel backpack, you should figure out what features are non-negotiable. For some, this could be as general as durability or as specific as having a laptop pocket.

Size and purpose are also vital when choosing your travel backpack. Consider where you'll go and what you'll do—it'll help you zero in on the bag that genuinely suits your adventures.

Prioritizing certain features will help narrow down the best women's travel backpack. Features you want to look for in a travel backpack for women include:

• Comfort features (ex. back panel with padding)
• Number of pockets
• Laptop slot (if necessary)
• Anti-theft features
• Waterproof material
• Adjustable shoulder and waist straps
• Color and design choices
• Expandable compartments

Paying attention to a backpack's dimensions will help you decide if it fits your travel needs nicely.

It's a good idea to check each backpack's dimensions. This way, you can tell whether it's big enough to work as a carry-on "suitcase" for your flight or small enough to pack and use on a day-by-day basis.

What's the Size Limit for a Carry-on Backpack?

The standard international carry-on size limit is 21.5" (H) x 15.5" (W) x 9" (D). Staying within these parameters will work for most international airlines.

But it can vary greatly between airlines, especially if you focus on saving money by flying budget air carriers. My best advice is to always double-check the bag size policies for your chosen flight!

What's the Size Limit for a Personal Item on Airplanes?

Backpacks equal to or less than 18" (H) x 14" (W) x 8" (D) fit under the seat on an airplane and work as a personal item.

Again, this is the typical standard, so it's best to check in advance with the airline you plan to fly with just to be sure.

Summary of the Top Travel Backpacks for Women

Now that the features you should be looking for in a great travel bag are at the forefront of your mind, I can get onto what we're all here for... My recommendations for the best travel backpacks for women.

Samsonite Detour Travel Backpack

Travelon anti-theft backpack.

• Away F.A.R. Backpack
• Osprey Daylite Expandable Backpack

L.L. Bean Approach Travel Pack

• NOMATIC 40L Travel Backpack

Venturesafe Anti-Theft Backpack

Osprey fairview 40 travel pack, women's osprey aura ag 50 pack, cotopaxi allpa 42l travel backpack.

• Matador SEG45 Travel Pack

Tortuga Setout Laptop Backpack

Nomatic 20l backpack, peak design travel pack 30l, monos metro backpack, herschel little america backpack, the expandable backpack (by beis).

To make this even easier for you to browse, I've broken up the bags into 5 different overarching categories:

• Top Small travel backpacks for women
• Best carry-on backpacks for women
• Best backs for budget travel
• Top business travel backpacks
• Most stylish backpacks for female travelers

Feel free to skip to the bags most suitable for you based on how you travel and what you think is most important in a bag!

Top Small Travel Backpacks for Women

When I think about smaller travel backpacks, these are the backpacks I would use as personal items for air travel. Depending on my mood, I'll switch between a backpack or a sizeable travel-specific purse.

The Samsonite Detour Travel Backpack is a streamlined, carry-on-friendly travel backpack for women.

With enough storage space to fit 3 to 5 packing cubes , it's functional as a carry-on suitcase for your next trip. It also fits underneath airplane seats so that it can work as a personal item, too!

Its water-resistant and lightweight material makes it easy to bring out for long days of exploring.

Dimensions: 20" (H) × 13" (W) × 9"(D)

My Rating: 4/5

• Main flap fully opens for easy packing
• Made with recyclable material
• 15.6" padded laptop compartment
• Water-resistant
• Mesh storage pockets
• Sternum strap
• Top and side handle
• Lightweight (1.9 lbs)
• One color option
• No hipstrap for weight distribution

An anti-theft backpack at an affordable price is the Travelon Anti-Theft Backpack. It's a stylish, small pack that a safe traveler who is not packing too heavy will get a lot of use from. It can work as a personal-size item on the plane and fit under the seat.

While it's not very suitable as carry-on luggage due to its size and capacity limits, it's ideal for weekend trips or an everyday pack.

Dimensions: 16" (H) x 11" (W) x 5" (D)

My Rating: 4.1/5

• Locked compartments
• Slash-resistant straps and backpack material
• Side pockets
• Lightweight (less than 1 lb)
• Small packing space (13 liters)

Away F.A.R Backpack

Day and weekend trippers will find much to appreciate about the Away F.A.R Backpack. The 26-liter pack is spacious enough to use as a carry-on for short trips but lightweight enough to wear for a day in the city.

Its sleek design is ideal for minimalists looking for a versatile bag that can do it all. Even better? It has a hidden, back-facing zip pocket for your wallet and passport.

Dimensions: 19" (H) x 12.6" (W) x 7.7" (D)

My Rating: 4.2/5

• Made from 100% recycled polyester
• Two side water bottle pockets
• Two 15" laptop compartments
• Hidden pocket
• Too small to work as your only suitcase for long trips
• Limited color choices

Osprey Daylite Expandable Pack

Suppose you want a convertible backpack that can shrink to daypack size or expand to carry-on size. In that case, the Osprey Daylite Expandable Pack is for you!

It starts at 26 liters and expands to six liters bigger. This way, you can pack light for quick trips or fit more for long journeys. It has an outside pocket specially made to hold your toiletries.

The Daylite pack is the only pack on my list that comes with print design options as well! If that's your style, this is the bag for you!

Dimensions: 17" (H) x 13" (W) x 6" (D)

My Rating: 4.5/5

• Works as a personal item or carry-on backpack
• Pattern and color design options
• Water bottle side pockets
• Laptop sleeve
• Main flap fully opens when unzipped for easy packing
• Mesh compartment inside
• Top, side, and bottom carrying handles
• Material is not waterproof

Best Carry-On Backpack for Women

These are often the large travel backpacks for women, so they must have an excellent organization system, be convenient to travel with and stay comfortable for the wearer.

Backpackers will love the all-nylon L.L. Bean Approach Travel Pack for its versatile features and practicality. Its 39-liter capacity is the 3rd most spacious backpack on this list.

This backpack is about as big as possible while staying within the standard carry-on size limits.

Remember that this pack is heavier than most, weighing 3.3 lb before packing.

Dimensions: 20" (H) x 12.5" (W) x 10" (D)

My Rating: 4.4/5

• Tuck-away straps for hand carry
• Main flap fully opens like a suitcase
• Sternum and waist belt straps
• Padded laptop sleeve
• Mesh dividers inside
• Few color choices
• Heavy pack (3.3 lb)
• Laptop sleeve only fits 13" devices

NOMATIC 32L Travel Backpack

Although this bag is a bit out of the affordable price point range for many budget travelers, I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a long-term do-it-all backpack style.

I've used this on multiple trips and found it very satisfying to pack, easy to organize all the items inside, and stylish to carry around. My favorite things about this bag are the expansion capability and the amount of useful pockets it boasts.

I wouldn't consider myself a budget traveler anymore, veering more to affordable luxury, but I also work while I travel 99% of the time. That's why I love the extra organization elements in the pouches and find the laptop compartment extremely easy to access.

Our team has written a full review of the NOMATIC 32L Travel Backpack , which you should check out before buying!

Dimensions: 22" (H) x 14" (W) x 9" (D)

• Lots of compartments for organization
• Many security features
• Feels very durable
• Great capacity even at the standard size
• Stylish and minimalistic design
• RFID protection and secret pockets
• Very pricey
• Zippers and compartments can be confusing at first
• Not as comfortable as it gets heavier
• Luggage strap is somewhat challenging to use
• Heavy for its size

The Venturesafe Anti-Theft Backpack has a whopping 45-liter capacity. It's the heaviest pack at 4.3 lbs, but for a good reason. Locking zippers and slash-proof material are some of the bag's safest features.

It may hold a lot and weigh more than other bags, but its size is within the standard international carry-on size.

This backpack is an ideal suitcase for women taking one to two-week trips. While it could be more stylish in terms of color and design, it makes up for it with practicality and safety.

Dimensions: 21.7" (H) x 13" (W) x 7.9" (D)

My Rating: 4.6/5

• Made with recycled plastic bottles
• Anti-theft: puncture-resistant, locking cable and zippers, stainless steel wire mesh
• Water-repellent fabric
• Padded hip belt and adjustable sternum strap
• 16" laptop padded sleeve
• Internal organizers and side pockets
• Fully opens like a suitcase for easy packing
• Mesh pocket inside
• Heavy (4.3 lbs)
• Two color options

You may know Osprey as a hiking backpack producer, but it also offers great travel bag options!

One such bag is the Osprey Fairview 40 Travel Pack, the female version to Osprey's uber popular Fairpoint backpack for men. This travel bag will check off many must-have features for women who want a spacious carry-on backpack.

The Fairview has a 16" laptop slot, adjustable harnesses, and 40 liters of space to fill with your travel belongings. It can double as a suitcase, and it's light enough to bring on a hike.

My Rating: 4.7/5

• Padded back
• Harness and hip belt
• Large flap pocket for easy packing
• Mesh pockets inside
• Two carry handles
• Made with sustainable materials
• Toiletry pocket
• Large capacity (40 liters)
• Limited color options
• Bulky (3lb 7 oz)

Best Backpacks for Budget Travel

When it comes to budget traveling , I generally think of lots of adventuring, having all my things fit in one bag in an organized manner, and having many safety features! These are the main features I focused on when looking for the best bags for budget travelers.

Another point I want to make is that I've done lots of budget traveling, and even though I like to save money while I travel, I often spend quite a bit on the travel gear I purchase. Instead of focusing on cheaper bags, I look at quality, durability, and versatility to get the most out of my bag.

Matador SEG 45L Travel Pack

When less is more, the SEG 45L shines. If you're a minimalist traveler who focuses on simplicity and efficiency, you'll love the Matador backpack.

Despite its 45-liter capacity, it's incredibly lightweight and packs to a surprisingly small size when not used. I love that this bag makes organization easy with segmented compartments, keeps things dry, and feels like it's super durable.

Plus, you can choose the way you want to carry it! Wear it as a backpack or switch to carrying it as a duffle bag.

Dimensions: 22.5" (H) x 12.5" (W) x 11.5" (D)

• Durable and water-resistant materials
• Amble padding for comfort
• Organization features
• High qualityzippers
• Carry options
• Feels large if you have a smaller frame
• Shoulder straps are thin
• No structure, even at the bottom of the laptop pocket

The Cotopaxi Allpa 42L is a fantastic option for travelers who want to make a positive impact. It's made with eco-friendly materials and fair labor practices.

So, not only will you feel good about using this bag, but you'll also find all of its features winning you over. It'll have you feeling super organized, comfortable while wearing it, and versatile enough to take on any type of trip.

The features that win me over about this bag are its multiple pockets inside and mesh panels. There's a dedicated spot for your laptop, a tablet sleeve, and even a pocket for your smartphone. And for your other gear, the mesh compartment makes it easy to see and organize!

Dimensions: 22" (H) x 14" (W) x 11" (D)

• Made from eco-friendly, repurposed materials
• Lockable zippers
• Tuck-away straps
• Spacious interior
• Hip belt is adjustable and removable
• Fewer pockets inside
• Need to buy rain cover separately
• Can lose its shape when overpacked

Another Osprey pack appears on my list as an excellent option for a women's travel backpack.

You'll find this is a backpack that puts long-haul comfort in the spotlight. Crafted specifically for women, this 50-liter pack is an absolute must for extended trekking or camping trips. Since this is considered more of a hiking/backpacking pack, this one's for you, adventure travelers.

That said, you shouldn't overlook it if you're more of a general budget traveler. After all, some of its top features for hiking are great for general travel.

For instance, it has Osprey's Anti-Gravity suspension system. This feature makes it feel like you're carrying less weight and seamlessly distributes the load across your body. Obviously a must for hiking, but also amazing when trekking between hostels or lugging it around during long layovers at the airport.

Best yet? It comes in different sizes to make sure the fit is as suitable as possible depending on your body!

Dimensions: Varies by size (XS, S, M)

• Very comfortable!
• Anti-gravity suspension for lighter feeling loads
• Good ventilation
• Comes in different sizes
• Adjustable torso length
• Integrated rain cover to keep everything dry
• On the heavier side
• Only has top access to the main compartment
• May be too small for long term trips

Top Business Travel Backpacks

Whether you're going on a business trip or you're a full-time digital nomad, it's essential to have gear that'll make working and traveling a breeze. That includes a bag that'll give you easy access to both your work and travel stuff!

Does it have a front pocket to organize all of your cords? What about a trusty laptop pouch? Are there external pockets to put essential travel items in easy-to-reach spots?

These are all important considerations when choosing the best women's backpack for traveling and working...

My first pick for a great work travel bag is the Tortuga Setout Laptop Backpack.

This ones for the digital nomad who's equally at home in a co-working space or a mountaintop café. It's designed with long-term durability in mind while also considering all the space needs of a working traveler.

Once you open up this Tortuga travel backpack you'll find convenience in the easy organization system. And you'll never dread carrying is around since it has many features, like cushion shoulder straps, for boosted comfort!

Dimensions: 19.1" (H) x 10.8" (W) x 7.1" (D)

• Great internal organization system
• Padded laptop compartment
• Fits 16" laptop and 12.9" tablet
• Comfort features like padded straps
• Made of durable, water-resistant material
• Small enough to fit under the seat
• Stylish design
• More expensive for its size
• Only comes in black
• No rain cover for added water protection

Are you the shutterbug who won’t compromise on carrying your camera gear? The Peak Design Travel Pack 30L could be your new best friend. Built with photographers in mind, this pack offers customizable compartments to fit all your lenses and accessories.

That said the Peak Design travel backpack is a favorite for many travelers, even those who don't fit into the intended target audience.

You'll find the 15-inch laptop sleeve is effortlessly accessible, even when fully packed. And the back panel opens up clamshell-style, making it a breeze to sort your clothes or footwear.

Though not exclusively designed for women, this versatile pack works seamlessly for daily commutes and jet-setting adventures alike. The back panel contours smoothly to your body for comfort as you navigate city streets.

Another great feature it boasts is a luggage pass-thru for easy pairing with a roller bag.

Dimensions : 20" (H) x 13" (W) x 7.5" (D)

• Compressions system is helpful and clean
• Clamshell opening for easy access
• It's camera-friendly and great for those with lots of gear
• Weatherproof
• Expandable option
• Relatively heavy, ven when empty
• Premium price point

For working travelers seeking a blend of style and efficiency in a more compact package, the Nomatic 20L Backpack is your go-to. This backpack transitions seamlessly from a day at the office to a quick weekend getaway.

You'll be delighted by the features and plenty of pockets packed into this work bag. Not only are there a lot of compartments, but also, within the compartments there are organization pockets.

It also boasts a laptop compartment, RFID pocket for protection, high quality zippers, and durable materials that seem like they'll last the test of time.

This 20L backpack is a bit larger than the official personal item size for some airlines, like Air Canada, but it’s pretty close. I've definitely gotten away with using this as a personal item on many flights!

Dimensions: 18.5" (H) x 12" (W) x 5" (D - which is 7.5″ when expanded)

My Rating: 4.3/5

• Minimalist and modern design
• Made from durable and water resistant materials
• RFID pocket to keep essentials secure
• Up to 50% expansion
• Secret airtag/Passport pocket
• TSA-ready laptop sleeve
• Very high cost for its size
• Can feel heavy when extra full

Most Stylish Backpacks for Female Travelers

The Monos Metro Backpack is arguably the most stylish women's travel backpack on the list. You can choose between vegan leather or nylon material in nearly 10 colors. It has a hidden pocket against your back to keep your most essential items safe while you travel.

While the bag is gorgeous, remember it's also the smallest on the list. It's perfect as a daily-use backpack purse and fits under airplane seats. This one is also a bit pricier, but the quality makes it a practical purchase!

Dimensions: 11.5" (H) × 16.5" (W) × 6"(D)

My Rating: 3.8/5

• Comes in nylon and vegan leather
• 15" laptop sleeve
• Button-snap backpack carrying handle
• Option to add a small snap-on kit bag
• Heavy for its small size
• Not enough room for use as a carry-on backpack

The Herschel Little America Backpack takes a stylish twist on the travel backpack. Women looking for a travel pack that's both stylish and functional will love this one.

While less technical than other travel backpacks on this list, the Herschel Little America has a solid 25-liter capacity. It allows you to use it as a weekend carry-on bag or a daypack for a more extended trip.

Dimensions: 19.25" (H) x 11.25" (W) x 7" (D)

My Rating: 3.9/5

• Padded and fleece-lined laptop sleeve
• Drawstring close
• Magnetic leatherstraps
• Great as a daypack or weekend trip backpack
• Stylish design and striped interior
• The material is not waterproof
• Limited packing space for long trips
• No sternum or hipstraps

Beis is a travel brand that manufactures luggage and travel gear that's known because of its famous owner Shay Mitchell. Since 2018, it has focused on creating chic, stylish products geared towards  the modern women.

One of the most useful bags, in my opinion is the Expandable Backpack. This bag proves that fashion and function can absolutely be best friends. While it may not be the most technical bag on the block, it has a unique edge: expandability.

The key features of this bag that I love, besides its expansion capabilities, are its multiple compartments, versatility, and adjustable straps for comfort.

Whether you're off on a weekend jaunt or need a reliable daypack, the Expandable Backpack by Beis offers a blend of utility and style that makes it an adaptable travel companion.

Dimensions : Expandable from 21" (H) x 14" (W) x 5" (D) to 21" (H) x 14" (W) x 8" (D)

• Expandable design
• Plenty of pockets and compartments, including dedicated spaces for laptops, water bottles, and even a secret passport pocket.
• Very stylish color options
• Versatile design and functionality (use for in the airport, for business travel, or as an everyday bag easily!)
• Designed for women's bodies
• Adjustable straps
• Eco-friendly constructions
• Trolley passthrough
• Not waterproof
• Not overly comfortable compared to competitors
• No hip or sternum straps
• Long-term durability concerns (since straps are quite thin)

Grab Your Favorite Pack & Plan Your Next Trip

With these top women's travel backpacks in mind, you can narrow down which one is best suited for your upcoming adventures. Travel backpacks are not only practical accessories but a stylish way to travel safely with your belongings.

If you're looking for more ways to be prepared, consider using a trip planner that can keep everything organized in one place!

Disclosure : Pilot is supported by our community. We may earn a small commission fee with affiliate links on our website. All reviews and recommendations are independent and do not reflect the official view of Pilot.

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12 Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks for Women of 2024

Shop our recommended lightweight luggage picks for traveling on a plane overseas, quick work trips, and weekend getaways.

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After deciding to take a trip , you’ll want to set yourself up for the best traveling experience possible by researching all of the details beforehand. That goes for everything from finding the best budget-friendly destinations to organizing your comfortable travel clothing and helpful travel accessories in advance. Another important consideration is how you’ll transport all your belongings, and while you might already have a luggage set you love, purchasing one of the best travel backpacks for women can make your journey even more seamless.

Travel backpacks and lightweight carry-ons are incredibly versatile since they offer more organization, comfort, and storage than a typical purse, better functionality than a tote, and are still sleek enough to bring just about anywhere. There are countless options suitable for every kind of adventure — whether you’ll be hiking in inclement weather on vacation or exploring an international city for a work trip — and each one is designed with airplane travel in mind.

Our top picks for best travel backpacks 2024:

Best Overall

Everlane the renew transit backpack.

Best Foldable

Longchamp le pliage backpack.

Most Fashionable

Away the everywhere zip backpack.

We’ve taken all the guesswork out of selecting the best travel backpack for your needs with our recommendations below. They fall under a variety of categories, so you can pick and choose the features that matter most to you. Once you settle on the perfect backpack, all that’s left to do is to start brainstorming some creative travel captions and hit the road.

There's not much that this Everlane backpack doesn't offer in terms of travel conveniences. It comes with a 15" exterior laptop pocket, a trolley sleeve, catch-all exterior zip pockets, two water bottle holders, and comfortable straps, all for under $100.

Like other Longchamp accessories, this chic backpack offers plenty of flexibility for women on-the-go. The nylon material can easily fold into a suitcase or larger bag for storage, and is lightweight enough to be worn for long stretches of sightseeing.

This sleek backpack easily slips on top of a suitcase with its trolley sleeve, and can also fit a great deal if it's the only luggage you're bringing. Plus, it features a 15" laptop pocket. Customers note that it offers plenty of space to organize basic travel necessities including masks, hand sanitizer, snacks, books, magazines, and a light jacket all at once.

Monos Metro Backpack

Don't be fooled by the simple design of this pack: it offers all the bells and whistles you could possibly want for everyday traveling. Features include a detachable folio kit, a 15" laptop sleeve, a trolley sleeve, and several thoughtfully designed interior pockets for storing everything from electronics to toiletries and clothing.

MZ Wallace Metro Convertible Backpack

Designed with urban commuters in mind, this stylish quilted backpack is incredibly comfy and still professional enough for the office. It offers both interior and exterior pockets, top carry handles, and a structured silhouette for all your work essentials.

Large Travel Backpack

Over 11,000 reviewers rated this backpack five stars on Amazon thanks to its roomy interior and security features. One customer wrote, "This backpack somehow bends the rules of physics to fit several outfits (warm-ish weather), a pair of shoes, carry-on toiletries, and a few personal items. I’ve taken this on three trips so far and the zippers and stitching are holding fast despite pushing it to its limits on an international trip."

L.L.Bean Stowaway Pack

Looking to maximize that one personal item allowance on your next flight? This lightweight pack includes cushioned straps, several interior pockets, and a "shove it" front pocket for quickly stowing away electronics and other small items.

Athleta Excursion Backpack

This lightweight backpack offers an impressive amount of storage given its size, making it ideal for everything from sightseeing, to hiking, and even long distance running. One happy customer wrote that it's "Such a cute backpack! It's small and deceiving, fits way more than you would expect!"

Troubadour Ki Backpack

If protecting your back and shoulders is a top consideration while traveling, opt for this ergonomic Troubadour pack. It comes with a breathable back panel and thoughtfully designed straps for a supportive fit without sacrificing storage space.

Osprey Sirrus 24 Women's Hiking Backpack

For a hiking-specific backpack, this Osprey bag includes several unique features that are helpful on the trail. A trekking pole attachment offers ease on rough terrain, hipbelt pockets make snacks and essentials easily accessible, and a raincover and ice axe holder offer protection during inclement weather.

BÉIS The Expandable Backpack

If you tend to overpack (or do a lot of shopping on vacation), an expandable backpack offers added flexibility. Not only does this one offer extra space, but it also comes with functional details like a key leash, laptop sleeve, trolley sleeve, and water bottle pockets.

Fjällräven Kånken Water Resistant Backpack

This Scandinavian backpack was originally produced in the 1970s for Swedish schoolchildren, but has since become iconic around the world thanks to its stylish yet practical design. The water-resistant material makes it durable, and the foam insert and cheerful color makes it a piece you'll be reaching for often.

How to shop for a travel backpack for women:

Look for the following when shopping for a new travel carry-on backpack:

✔️ Durability: A travel backpack is an investment piece that you'll hopefully get a lot of use out of, so there are several factors to consider before buying. The primary question to ask yourself is how you plan to use it, and whether it's important to buy something that you can use in a variety of settings. To get the most value out of your purchase, we recommend looking for features that offer versatility and durability, such as high-quality, water-resistant material.

✔️ Support and comfort: Additionally, whether or not you have back issues, it's important to consider the level of support a backpack offers. Opting for lightweight packs, with cushioned back panels, and ergonomic straps will protect your shoulders (and will also make for a much more pleasant wearing experience.)

✔️ Style and special features: Lastly, taking into account your personal style and any must-have features will help narrow down the many options available. Take time to think about if the aesthetic is a top priority, or if a different aspect such as organizational capabilities or eco-friendly manufacturing is more important to you. The good news is that if you're really having difficulty deciding, there's always the option to purchase more than one backpack for different occasions.

• Why is a travel backpack helpful? Rolling luggage certainly makes transporting your heaviest items easier, but it does require the use of one or both hands. Especially if you're traveling lighter, or for transit that occurs after those initial trips to/from the airport, a backpack allows you to move about hands-free, while still carrying more than you could with a smaller bag or purse.
• What size backpack can I bring on a plane? If you're using the backpack as your primary piece of carry-on luggage, t he maximum dimensions are typically 22 inches long, 14 inches wide and 9 inches high . If you're using it as a personal item stowed under the seat in front of you, it shouldn't exceed 18 inches long, 14 inches wide and 8 inches high.

Sam Lawyer is a lifestyle writer and television producer based in New York City. She’s been contributing to Woman’s Day for nearly five years, and covers a variety of topics from gifting, to health, and entertainment. Her work has additionally been featured in Cosmopolitan, Country Living, and Good Housekeeping. When she’s not writing or producing, you can find her binging her favorite Bravo shows or getting walked by her French Bulldog.

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16 Best Backpacks for Women With a Trolley Sleeve

Backpacks , LUGGAGE

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If you need a break from having a bag hurting your shoulders, a women backpack with a trolley sleeve makes it so easy to navigate through an airport or get relief wherever you may be walking with your luggage in tow. See this roundup of cute functional backpacks with this built-in extra feature that readers absolutely love!

Best Women’s Backpack With Trolley Sleeve

Table of contents.

While backpacks are a must-have for so many travelers, an added trolley sleeve is definitely a game changer. Ultra-convenient, you can simply slip them over your suitcase handle when you need to take the weight off and stroll through the airport with ease. Versatility is always a plus when it comes to travel bags, and these cute options offer just that.

Review these top picks for the best backpack women love with a trolley sleeve!

Best Women Backpacks With Luggage Sleeve

Shop: Amazon | Walmart

Readers’ Top Pick: Matein Structured Backpack With Trolley Sleeve

TFGs vote the Matein women’s backpack with laptop compartment as #1 because it can hold all electronics and other travel necessities safely and securely without adding too much weight! It boasts plenty of pockets of various sizes, a 15.6” padded laptop sleeve, and even a USB port for charging while on the move!

Readers can’t get enough of this womens laptop bag backpack, and say that it’s comfy to wear, holds a ton, and adds so much convenience to their travels! One TFGer says, “This is the best backpack I’ve ever had. It packs a lot and is still comfortable to carry!”

Overall, it’s a hugely popular backpack among techy or business travelers too, because it’s so sturdy and water-resistant. It was a top item during the Prime Day sales !

See these reader recommendations for the best women’s convertible backpack purse !

Editor’s Pick: Tumi Denver Sleek Backpack With Trolley Sleeve

If you’re looking for a women’s backpack with a laptop compartment and a trolley sleeve, the Tumi Denver will keep your things organized with its multiple inner and outer pockets (including a water bottle pocket) and a 15” to 16″ padded laptop sleeve.

One user shares, “Have taken this on two long-haul trips. So many useful compartments beats normal luxury bags by far. Very light as well. My favorite feature is the separate laptop compartment at the back; there’s no need for thick laptop covers anymore. There’s also a hidden phone compartment at the shoulder, useful for passports and phones when checking in flights. Really pleased with the purchase.”

These popular women’s backpacks are quite spacious inside, and whether you’re carrying one on your back or on your suitcase, it won’t weigh you down!

Find out what readers think of this popular brand, and see their top  Tumi luggage bag reviews !

Shop: Target

Editor’s Pick: Target Women’s Backpacks for Travel With Trolley Sleeve

I’ve tested a range of backpacks over the years, and to my surprise, this budget-friendly Commuter Backpack from Target has become my favorite personal item when traveling with my toddler. I’m obsessed with it, as well as the Day Trip Backpack ! They’re a great price, look nice, and boast functional features like side water bottle pockets and water-repellent fabric.

While the Commuter Backpack is slimmer and doesn’t have as much organization, I prefer this version. It’s a great, compact size that works for me, and I love how the design is streamlined and minimalistic. It’s been my go-to recently!

The Day Trip backpack is perfect for trips where I need a bit more space and organization. I also like that it has an exterior laptop sleeve, which is very roomy.

Shop: Amazon | Tumi

Tumi Just In Case Stylish Travel Backpacks With Trolley Sleeve

The Just In Case classy backpacks are a quality pick that readers rave about. Aside from its style and quality, this bag’s packability is what really makes it stand out – when not in use, it folds into its own little pouch for easy storage! The simple design and practical size can store a day’s worth of essentials, and it’s amazingly lightweight, which makes it easy to carry around while you’re on the go.

Readers love this chic backpack as a day bag while sightseeing, to use on business trips, or to bring goodies back home! A reader says, “Shoutout to the Just in Case backpack! It folds down flat in your suitcase. I use it as a lightweight alternative for touring around on my travels and keeping my small items organized.”

Shop: Amazon

LOVEVOOK Stylish Laptop Backpack With Trolley Sleeve

This Lovevook womens backpack with laptop sleeve is a reader pick, loved for its practical size and on-the-go charging capabilities. Aside from the handy USB port that allows you to charge wherever, whenever (portable charger not included), it has a 15.6” laptop sleeve, multiple zip compartments, and soft padding on the straps for comfort.

This ladies laptop backpack is a great budget option, and while it may not be the most durable, it’s super cute and readers have been loving it.

One reader’s review covers their travel experience to Europe with this backpack, “Love this! I used it as my personal bag on a flight to London, and it carried a ton of stuff. Easy to slide over my suitcase handle. So many pockets! Used it during our trip on a daily basis and use it now to carry my laptop and papers to work. Held up very well.”

And check out this similar womens laptop bag backpack from Koser; it’s equipped with a USB port as well!

Away Elegant Backpacks With Trolley Sleeve

Inside Away’s awesome backpacks , you’ll find sleeves and pockets galore to make organizing your belongings easy peasy! There’s a spot for a water bottle, books, and pens, and plenty of room for all of your other essentials, plus there’s a key clip and a padded 15” laptop sleeve. And it all comes in a sleek, streamlined design that’s water-resistant and available in a range of cool-toned colors.

No wonder it’s a reader fave! A review says, “This backpack is so well designed and thought out. Perfectly placed pockets while maximizing every space. It is so lightweight and easy to travel with.”

Shop: Calpak

Calpak Kaya Leather Travel Backpack With Trolley Sleeve

Calpak’s faux leather backpack with laptop compartment is made for the business traveler or the ultra-organized girl on the go, with a slim and structured design that’ll neatly hold your laptop and other travel essentials. Inside, you’ll find a back compartment featuring a padded laptop sleeve and a roomy front compartment with a large sleeve pocket. And if the function weren’t enough, it’s absolutely beautiful, made of high quality faux leather with a cute whipstitch trim!

One reader shares, “I was surprised by the durability of this faux leather laptop backpack. I can throw it around without worrying about scuffing or staining. Plus, I never go a day without someone complimenting my Kaya. The best feature by far is the opening that you can slide over your carry on handle for secure and hassle-free airport traveling!”

Shop: Lo & Sons

Lo & Sons Computer Backpack Leather /Nylon With Trolley Sleeve 

The Lo & Sons nylon and leather laptop backpack for women has a beautiful look and subtle details that’ll make all the difference when you travel. From the water-resistant fabric and zippers to the 13” laptop sleeve and the various pockets and slots for phones, electronics, a passport, pens, water bottle, and more, this bag truly has every base covered! And while it’s very spacious, it’ll fit perfectly under an airplane seat.

It’s also convertible! You can wear it as a backpack, carry it as a tote, or slip it over your suitcase, depending on what the situation calls for.  It’s also available in a small and large size. 13″ laptops can fit in the Large (21L) and some 13″ laptops are able to fit into the Small (17L).

One TFG reader shares their travel experience with this elegant backpack, “It’s structured, but still soft enough to cram things in when I’m flying, and I love the feet on the bottom, keeps it upright, and it doesn’t get dirty.”

Finding the best day pack for travel can ensure you have a secure and hands-free vacation. Here are the top choices!

Calpak Stylish Laptop Backpack With Trolley Sleeve

Decked out with killer organization, the Calpak Luka laptop backpack is amazing for travelers who want to keep all their devices and travel essentials neat and protected. The 15” laptop compartment is amply padded and features a roomy zippered pocket, and there are plenty of inner and outer pockets of all sizes.

One traveler loves that it’s simple yet elegant and versatile enough to use for all kinds of different travel scenarios! Function aside, this bag is sleek and modern, with a scratch-resistant exterior that comes in a range of fun matte shades.

Coowoz Women’s Backpack Laptop Bag With Trolley Sleeve

This Coowoz backpack laptop bag for women is made for the organized packer, with a roomy, front-opening design and plenty of pockets. It’s lightweight with padded straps and back ventilation, so whether carrying it on your back or on your suitcase, you’ll be kept comfortable.

More of its wonderful features include a separate shoe compartment, a wet pocket, a padded laptop sleeve, and a USB charging port!

A reader says, “This turned out to be the unicorn personal item bag that I was looking for. I wanted something that packs like a suitcase, has zipper security, and a trolley sleeve. It fits all international and domestic budget airline personal item size requirements and it holds so much stuff! It’s super comfy to wear, too, with thick, padded straps.”

Shop: Amazon  | Zappos

Baggallini Stylish Travel Backpack With Trolley Sleeve

This women’s carry on backpack from Baggallini is a handy little option that has plenty of space for your travel must-haves while staying slim, compact, and comfortable to carry. It’s also lightweight, water-resistant, and easy to care for, and the convertible design adds to its versatility. The fabric is lined with RFID protection, and the leather accents elevate its look!

A reader shares their experience, “I love this bag for travel! It fits right under the seat for domestic U.S. flights and holds quite a bit. I also use it regularly as a laptop bag for commuting and it’s comfortable to wear – even when fully loaded with my stuff.”

Shop: Amazon | Vera Bradley

Vera Bradley Fashion Laptop Backpack With Trolley Sleeve

Whimsical patterns meet functional design in Vera Bradley’s beloved fashionable backpack, the Vera Bradley Campus ! It’s made of soft, recycled cotton that’s lightweight, machine washable, and extremely durable. Inside, mesh laptop and tablet sleeves keep your tech securely in its place with plenty of room for your other travel essentials.

As a plus, this cute ladies travel backpack is offered in over 35 colors and patterns to choose from! One reader review says, “I have a Vera Bradley Campus backpack. I love it as my personal item. It fits a lot, has good organization, and is lightweight.”

Take one of these cute travel tote bags as a personal item on your flight!

Shop: Monos

Monos Metro Women’s Leather Travel Backpack With Trolley Sleeve

The Monos Metro vegan leather backpack has a gorgeous look, and its water—and scratch-resistant construction will keep it looking nice trip after trip. Looks aside, this backpack is filled with multiple pockets and compartments of all sizes, including a 15” laptop compartment and a removable front pouch. And despite its sturdiness and ample organizational features, it’s quite lightweight!

One TFGer raves about “the organization and beautiful design.” This backpack laptop bag women’s style comes in both a vegan leather and a nylon option, too!

Shop: Nomad Lane

Nomad Lane Ikigai Stylish Laptop Backpack with Trolley Sleeve

Another new favorite for me, the highhlight of this pretty Nomad Lane Ikigai Slim laptop backpack for women is the excellent interior organization. The streamlined exterior keeps it simple, with a side water bottle pocket, a slim front pocket, and a hidden back pocket that’s perfect for stashing a passport or other valuables.

Inside, you can fit a 15” laptop, and the multiple pockets will keep all of your travel essentials neat and easy to access. I was able to fit two Compass Rose packing cubes inside this backpack, so it’s also a wonderful option for a short trip where you only need a small bag.

Shop: Pacsafe |  Amazon | REI

Pacsafe Anti-Theft Stylish Backpack With Trolley Sleeve

With your valuable belongings in this women’s lightweight backpack from Pacsafe, you’ll have the utmost peace of mind as you travel and explore new places — even in crowded areas! This is designed with lockable zippers, cut-resistant fabric, and an RFID blocking pouch, and the detachable shoulder straps can be locked to fixtures for extra protection!

Beyond the stellar anti-theft features, this ladies backpack for travel has multiple pockets for organization, a 13” laptop sleeve, a wide opening for efficient packing, a chic look, and is made from resilient, water-resistant nylon. One reader with this backpack says, “I’m loving my Pacsafe Citysafe backpack. It holds so much and looks great!”

You’ll never struggle in the airport again with a travel bag with trolley sleeve , because a trolley sleeve is one of the most helpful features a bag can have for travel! 

Swissgear Backpack Laptop With Trolley Sleeve 

If you’re looking for a spacious backpack that you can load up but still carry comfortably, look no further than this Swissgear Scan Smart backpack . This bag is full of handy pockets, including an exterior, fleece-lined glasses pocket, and an organizer compartment with sleeves for pens, cards, and chargers. It’s lightweight at 3 lbs, and it boasts ergonomic, padded shoulder straps with breathable fabric and an adjustable sternum strap for supreme comfort.

It also has a padded laptop sleeve! One traveler who used this backpack as a carry-on to Spain reports that it was steady, had a perfect amount of pockets, felt secure, and was an amazing travel bag overall.

Left: Compass Rose Medium Packing Cubes (13″ x 8.5″ x 2.8″) | Right: Compass Rose Slim Packing Cubes (13″ x 5″ x 2.8″)

How to Pack Your Travel Clothing

It’s time to pack your clothing to prepare for your big trip! Many readers use our packing cubes for this task.

The Compass Rose Packing Cubes are now offered in two sizes: slim and medium. The slim size cubes measure 13 x 5 x 2.8, and the medium size cubes measure 2.8 x 13 x 8.5. Both fit an international carry-on suitcase and can help you organize and compress clothing items. The medium sizes is great for bulkier items.

If you’d like more help on learning how to use packing cubes, see the video below.

Watch this video to start learning how to organize with packing cubes!

We also put together a five-part YouTube series showing the different methods to use packing cubes for travel. If you use this specific packing strategy, packing cubes can also compress your belongings. This method has helped many women travel carry-on only!

Functional Backpacks With Trolley Sleeve Comparison Chart

[wpsm_comparison_table id=”454″ class=”center-table-align”]

What do you think is the best womens backpack with a trolley sleeve? Share your finds with us below!

For more travel backpacks, please read:

• Cute Backpacks for Travel 
• Best Laptop Bags for Women 
• Here are the Best Business Backpack Styles
• Le Pliage Longchamp Backpack Review

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I believe the Lovevook backpack is the first thing I bought after I discovered this site (as well as the Facebook group). It’s a perfect backpack! Mine has made trips to New England, San Francisco, and to the Grand Canyon as well as many long weekend trips. It’s going on it’s first European cruise very soon! I know it will be perfect!

Thank you to Travel Fashion Girls for all kinds of helpful information. This is a fabulous source of travel information!

Any info on LIGHT WEIGHT backpack for 79 yr old woman to use daily instead of purse? Need long straps, NO laptop or tablet! Carries 2 pair glasses, some meds, lip balm, gum or mints. 10”W x 4” D x 9” H. Light weight small backpack would make her more mobile on daily/travel apmts. Thanks!

I’m surprised to see no Briggs & Riley packs here. They are often compared to Tumi products, but are of much higher quality at a similar price point, and come with a lifetime guarantee. I have two of their travel backpacks and would not go with any other brand.

Thank you for sharing your feedback with us, we often see them recommended for suitcases but not backpacks!

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Best daypacks for air travel in 2024 that are lightweight and practical

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Despite the plethora of onboard entertainment, window-gazing and people-watching to engage in on any given flight, there are some things every traveller needs.  

Tech for work like laptops , portable keyboards and headphones , and tech for play like e-readers , tablets and er… headphones . Notoriously dry air on board means dry skin and in turn, sub-100ml hydrating solutions to combat it. And of course, there are vital bits and pieces needed on any trip: passport, wallet , chargers , water bottles , ear plugs and an extra layer of warmth when you’re cruising at 35,000 feet.

Given all of this, a standard handbag just isn’t going to cut it. And while a cabin bag may be included in your fare, hauling it in and out of the overhead compartment and unzipping it in the aisle won’t make friends amongst your fellow passengers or cabin crew.

Adding a small backpack like a daypack to your suite of travel luggage means you can keep flight essentials to hand, adding up to an easier journey. A hands-free design allows you to wheel your bag or duty-free onto the plane without struggling down the gangway and can continue to earn its keep as a day bag once you arrive at your destination.

Look for designs with wide, padded shoulders to comfortably spread the weight across your back and try to seek out streamlined options to avoid bulk. Something made in an easy-to-fold material is a bonus, as you can stash it in bigger bags when you don’t need it. 

If you’re flying with a budget carrier, be mindful of cabin luggage size restrictions - going over them can land you with a hefty fine. 

We’ve rounded up the best options to buy below, opting for designs with additional storage - because can you ever have enough? - and are easy on the eye and stylish to boot.

Best travel backpacks: Cheap, hostel-ready and hard-wearing bags that are ideal for wherever travel takes you

Best packable backpack for convenient carrying

Best mini underseat cabin bags that fit beneath an airline chair

Best luggage sets for stylish and practical travel in 2024

RAINS book daypack mini

Upgrade your handbag to this daypack and have plenty of space to store all your in-flight essentials, from hydrating skincare and vital tech to your beach read. The cute daypack is cut from the same waterproof PU fabric that the brand is known for, meaning your stuff will stay safe and dry in case of a downpour.

A slim front pocket in addition to the main compartment means organisation is easy. And you can wear it three ways: over the shoulder, cross-body, and around your waist like a giant bumbag.

Also available in black.

Mismo Day Pack

If you're worried about looking like an overgrown schoolchild on a trip, it's time to rethink what you know about backpack design. Mismo does it through a luxury optic, complete with full-grain bridle leather trims secured with solid brass hardware. Its tote-slash-backpack can be worn in myriad ways, so whether you need hands-free or somewhere to stash your travel blanket with easy access, it will deliver.

Inside you'll find extra pockets to keep travel essentials like documents, tickets and passports.

Monos Metro Backpack

Make every trip feel like you're flying first with Monos' sleek backpack. Crafted from water-resistant nylon twill with vegan leather details, it's versatile enough to be used on the commute or longer trips overseas. 

Inside the main compartment, you'll find mindfully designed pockets to organise smaller things. Meanwhile, a laptop sleeve on the back can accommodate devices with 15-inch screens which means you don't have to open the whole bag to get access. The reverse features a trolley sleeve so you can hang it on your cabin bag until it's time to board.

M&S Rubberised Waterproof Stormwear Plus Backpack

Slimline and expandable, M&S has this travel-ready backpack at a snip of the price of competitors. The design is teeming with pockets with two external in addition to the main compartment which features a roll-top opening. This means you can roll it up or down in tune with your contents - good news if you've overdone souvenir shopping or want to chuck your handbag in at the departure gate. 

The straps are wide and adjustable and the exterior features M&S's trademarked Stormwear Plus fabric which will keep your things protected, even in heavy rain showers.

Stubble & Co. The Packable Backpack

• Best for: wet weather hiking
• Capacity: 20L

Folding in and out of a zipped pouch like a foldable tote, Stubble & Co. presents its folding backpack.

The 20L design features a main compartment, external pockets for water bottles, and a front zipped compartment for important things like a purse or keys.

The storage-heavy bag is made with weatherproof recycled materials with plenty of padding on the straps and back panel to make carrying it comfortable. 

SZLX Large Travel Backpack

Best for: pockets and sections galore

Available in pleasing pastel hues as well as classic black and white, this compact backpack can hold an astounding amount thanks to all the compartments.

There are plenty of sections to keep your things organised; a roomy main area for clothes and underwear with sleeves and pockets to keep small tech and travel documents in place; a dedicated shoes compartment for an extra pair of trainers; space to keep a 14-inch laptop; and a slim front pocket to stow sub-100ml toiletries.

There are side pockets too, which can be used for reusable water bottles or an umbrella, and there’s a USB charger port so you can add your own cable and battery pack. Keep your most precious things in the slim anti-theft zipper pocket on the mesh panelled reverse.

ROKA London Finchley A Small Sustainable Canvas Backpack

The ultimate sustainable rucksack, Roka’s roomy commuter bag is complete with roomy internal pockets, organisational sections and a padded sleeve for your laptop or tablet. It’s made with weather-resistant canvas with a matte nylon lining and has been crafted with the help of 12-15 recycled plastic bottles. It’s also offered in an array of eye-catching hues and varying sizes.

Jansport Student Backpack

Extra-large and supportive for all academic needs, the Jansport large student backpack features a handy 15-inch laptop compartment. It has two front zipped utility pockets, a mesh water bottle holder and padded features for supreme comfort. It’s also available in a wide selection of colours and patterns to suit your style.

Victorinox packable backpack

• Best for: the outdoorsy elite
• Capacity: undisclosed

With a long history of making practical gear in the name of preparedness, Victorinox is a go-to for the outdoorsy elite. The brand's packable backpack has been designed to pack into luggage for far-flung voyages - simply tuck it into your hold bag so it's ready to go on arrival. 

Consisting of a large main storage compartment and a small zipped external pocket, the sleek nylon bag hangs comfortably off the shoulders on adjustable straps. 

Tropicfeel Shell Backpack

Though not technically a vacuum seal backpack, the Tropicfeel Shell is designed to be used in tandem with the brand’s very own compressible wardrobe system which makes packing and unpacking an absolute breeze. It allows individuals to pack up to 20 per cent more items and can be bought in tandem with a handy sealed laundry bag to keep your clean clothes fresh during long trips away.

Frederic St James Women’s Full Grain Italian Leather Backpack

If you’ve ever been lucky enough to travel to Italy, you’ll have likely walked through countless markets specialising in full-grain Italian leather. Like us, you may just have regretted not purchasing anything. This is where Frederic St James comes in. This women’s convertible leather backpack is offered in a beautiful, deep cherry red hue with multiple padded compartments for all your travel needs.