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The Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

Whether weekend road-tripping or jet-setting around the world, you’re going to need a pack to toss over your shoulder. Here are the best travel backpacks for every adventure.

There are a lot of great travel backpacks out there, but not all of them are created equal. A travel pack needs to be comfortable to carry, easy to organize, and durable enough to withstand being toted from place to place.

From hitting the road for the weekend to spending months traveling abroad, we’ve put nearly 30 different travel backpacks through the wringer. We tallied our airline miles, punched our tickets, and put our tray tables in the upright and locked position for close to half a decade now, taking domestic and international flights to as far as Iceland and as close as 30-minute island hops. And while there isn’t a single pack that suits every traveler, we’ve highlighted a variety of designs and price points to help you find the perfect travel backpack.

Choosing a travel backpack can be a dizzying experience, and we’ve shaken down the best to sort through the static. Each pack has seen its time on the baggage carousel, hostel luggage cart, and we’ve even had a few go missing for the full experience. We fully pack and live out of these bags to test them, and in the end, we’re confident that the 15 packs collected here are the best travel backpacks available today. Check in and check them out.

For all your travel pack questions, consult our buyer’s guide , where we’ve laid bare all the essentials. Compare each of the packs using our handy comparison chart , and if you’ve still got questions, check out our FAQ section.

Editor’s Note: We updated our travel backpack guide on March 20, 2024 to add the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L — a supremely nice commuter-style travel pack, as well as the Thule Aion 40L and Osprey Archeon 30L .

• Best Overall Travel Backpack: Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L
• Best Budget Travel Backpack: Dakine Campus 33L Backpack
• Best Carrying Travel Backpack: Osprey Farpoint & Fairview 40 Travel Packs
• Best Organization in a Travel Backpack: Matador SEG45 Travel Pack
• Best Shoulder Bag: Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L
• Best Commuter-Style Travel Backpack: Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L
• Best Personal Item Travel Pack: TimBuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

• Capacity 45 L (collapses to 35 L)
• Weight 4 lbs., 8 oz.
• Dimensions 22" x 13" x 9.5" standard, 22" x 13" x 11" expanded
• Compartment access Back panel clamshell design with #10 zipper
• Material Weatherproof, 100% recycled 400-denier nylon canvas shell; 900-denier waterproof bottom

• Compresses down to maximum airline carry-on size, and then expands once you’ve hit your destination
• Burly construction
• No details are overlooked in the design
• Side-carry handles are offset in an awkward position

Perfect is a dirty word in product design, but we’re about stumped when it comes to drumming up a quibble about the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45 L ($300). This redeye-ready clamshell design is made to the highest of standards.

It’s made of quality materials, utilizing aluminum hardware and a burly 400-denier nylon canvas — and it easily ticks all our boxes for the best overall travel backpack. The interior of the bag is split into two compartments: a larger main area for storing the majority of your kit and a secondary sleeve at the front of the bag with five zippered pockets. The main pocket also sports a foam-padded laptop sleeve and three more pockets.

One of the more impressive aspects we discovered along the bag’s inaugural leg from Seattle to Anchorage was how easily the straps of the Travel Backpack stow away into the bag. Two foam panels on the back of the bag flip away to secure them and then close with a magnetic closure — very slick. This was our favorite strap-stowage system, with the zippered panels of the Matador GlobeRider45 coming in a close second. We find the Peak Design bag compresses smaller.

Then there are the little details. An ID-size sleeve on the back panel provides all the information should your bag get separated from you. Zipper pulls thread through one another to keep what’s yours safe. And a collapsible system adjusts the bag from a full 45 to 35 liters.

In our review, there’s little about the Peak Design pack that misses the mark. The company leans heavily toward the camera-toting travelers among us, but the 45 L Travel Backpack makes no compromises and works just as well for any user group. The high price is undeniable, but for the scope of the travel pack, it’s a buy-once-cry-once purchase we would make again.

Also available in a 30L size , the range of Travel Backpacks from Peak Design is so well-thought-out that you can practically see the cogs turning in their creators’ heads. We think they make the best travel backpacks on the market.

Dakine Campus 33L Backpack

• Capacity 33 L
• Weight 1 lb., 10.6 oz.
• Dimensions 20.5" x 13" x 8"
• Compartment access Zippered top access
• Material Depending on print type, can be 600-denier recycled polyester, 420-denier recycled nylon, 630-denier recycled nylon, or 1,200-denier recycled polyester

• Cheap price
• Available in many different fabric prints
• Unique insulated cooler pocket
• Not many travel-specific features
• Straps don’t pack away

Even at the regular price, the Dakine Campus 33L Backpack ($75) is a great deal. And considering you can grab one on sale for $45, it’s a must-have budget travel backpack.

It has everything you need to keep your travels organized, without getting too big or complicated. This design has a padded laptop sleeve and a fleece-lined top pocket to keep your sunglasses safe. There’s an organizer pocket that’s perfect for pens, a phone, and easy-access essentials. We love pockets, and this backpack has plenty.

And if that weren’t enough, it also has an insulated cooler pocket to keep your snacks fresh on the go, plus double side pockets keep drinks handy. We found the straps comfortable during long travel days. Be sure to use the sternum strap when carrying a heavy load for the best fit.

While this bag does excellent at travel, it isn’t quite what the bag was designed for, thus it’s missing a few travel niceties like a compression system or the ability to pack away the straps. We didn’t find that we missed them desperately, but they would have been nice for a few instances. For similar-sized backpacks with more of a travel bend to them, look to the sleek Timbuk2 Never Check, or the uber-customizable Tom Bihn Synapse 25. But prepare to shell out some more for them.

If you’re looking for a sub-$100 backpack (under $60 during sales!) that does the basics, then the Dakine Campus Backpack is for you. It comes in a variety of colors and is also available in a 25L capacity .

Osprey Farpoint & Fairview 40 Travel Packs

• Capacity 40 L
• Weight 3 lbs., 7.6 oz.
• Dimensions 22" x 14" x 9"
• Compartment access Zippered back panel clamshell design
• Material Bluesign-approved 450-denier recycled polyester

• Supreme suspension system offers the best carry of any pack we tried
• External compression straps limit the volume well
• Comfortably padded grab handles
• Not much internal organization

No stranger to producing supremely comfortable suspension systems, Osprey injected a good bit of its tech into the Farpoint and Fairview packs ($185), which both sport LightWire frames, load lifters, and breathable framesheet and suspension straps. Our Farpoint pack was easily the best load carrier of any we tested and a close contender for the best travel backpack overall.

Far beyond what any of the other travel packs offer, the pack even allows you to adjust the torso length — unheard of in the typical travel pack. Newly updated, these packs have been tweaked to ride the line between traditional backpacks and functional luggage, a claim we can substantiate.

The 40-liter capacity is just about the sweet spot for domestic carry-on luggage limits, and these packs make good use of the space. We could easily pack away a long weekend’s worth of travel essentials into the bag with a little space to spare.

Whereas many other travel packs stash straps away into the body of the pack, the Farpoint and Fairview move in the opposite direction with a deployable strap cover that neatly seals in the suspension for safekeeping when checked. This produces a clean profile that’s ready to be slung around, but it’s not quite as easy and quick as the magnetic panels of the Peak Design Travel Backpacks, as you need to unclip straps to tuck them away.

The interior of the pack is rather spartan, incorporating only one zippered pocket, a laptop sleeve, and two internal compression straps. We would have rather seen a bit more organizational features involved like those that the Matador GlobeRider and Topo Designs Global Travel bags incorporate, but for those who stuff more than pack, the Farpoint and  Fairview may very well punch the ticket.

With one foot on the platform and one on the trail, these packs from Osprey will get you where you’re going and carry a trip’s worth of kit with ease.

Matador SEG45 Travel Pack

• Capacity 45 L
• Weight 2 lbs., 8 oz.
• Dimensions 22" x 13.4" x 10.2"
• Compartment access Full clamshell interior, additional front zippered access
• Material 420-denier nylon exterior, 100-denier Robic Dynatec interior

• Excellent storage organization options
• High-quality, strong, and lightweight construction
• No frame to speak of
• Shoulder straps don’t pack away

Aiming to do more with less, the Matador SEG45 Segmented Backpack ($200) proposes a future free of packing cubes and splits up the bag for you, making the organization of your travel pack a breeze.

The full 45 liters of volume is shared among the five segments (6, 9, 15, 9, and 6 L) and trades volume between the full clamshell compartment and the segments. Each of these segments is accessible via its own water-resistant zippers and can be collapsed as your needs change.

We found organizing by clothing type made the most sense in our own packing, but you could even pack based on the day of the week or the use. The clamshell-accessed main compartment was ideal for holding larger items like spare shoes or quarantining spent outfits.

Known for its overbuilt but lightweight bags, Matador didn’t spare the SEG45, utilizing 420D UHMWPE-reinforced nylon in the pack body, as well as 100D Robic Dynatec weave on the interior. It should be noted that this travel backpack doesn’t have any kind of frame and will rely on being packed well to carry correctly. Because of this, this pack won’t carry as well as bags like the Osprey Farpoint/Fairview, so consider packing mostly clothing in the SEG45.

Our testers felt this bag excelled as a travel bag you might deploy once you’ve hit your destination, as it packs away into larger bags so well. Unfortunately, however, the shoulder straps don’t pack away into the bag itself, so you’ll have to wrangle them into place to keep things tidy.

No matter what you’re up to, everything has got a spot to live in the SEG45 . Need a bit less space? Matador offers the SEG28 ($250) for that.

Read Review: Dresser in a Backpack: Matador SEG42 Review

Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L

• Weight 3 lbs., 10.3 oz.
• Dimensions 22.8" x 8.6" x 14.5"
• Compartment access Back panel zippered clamshell design
• Material 900-denier recycled polyester ripstop with a TPU laminate

• Multiple ways to carry the pack
• Many different storage and internal organization options
• Burly external fabric
• Doesn’t carry the best as a backpack

Looking to squeeze out every last liter of allowed space? Patagonia named this pack in honor of the cause: the Patagonia Black Hole Maximum Legal Carry-On 45 L ($239). This bag can be carried in a number of different ways, but we found it shined during travel as a shoulder bag.

Borrowing fabric from Patagonia’s line of burly Black Hole Duffels , the MLC 45 is made for the long haul. The 900-denier polyester ripstop is coated in a TPU laminate and feels ready to take on the surliest baggage carrier. We certainly felt no remorse in tossing the bag around.

At 45 L, the MLC is certainly right at the cusp of the maximum allowed size, but thankfully that space is well divided up inside the pack. Inside the main clamshell-accessed compartment is a blizzard of zippers and mesh pockets and dividers. Anything we tossed inside was well-stabilized.

Because there isn’t much of a frame to speak of, the Black Hole MLC doesn’t carry the best when slung over both shoulders and can sag when not entirely full. But over a shoulder with the included shoulder strap, this pack feels great and can be easily accessed on the go. This is one of the only packs in our testing to feature a shoulder strap (the other being the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag).

On top of all this, we greatly appreciate that the Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45 L is made with 100% recycled body fabric, lining, and webbing. Perfect for grabbing and going, this pack is ready to move.

Read Review: Patagonia Black Hole MLC Bag Review: An Organized, Carry-On-Size Wonder

Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L

• Capacity 24 L
• Weight 3 lbs., 1.6 oz.
• Dimensions 18" x 7: x 11.5"
• Compartment access Zippered clamshell
• Material 840D ballistic nylon 6, 420D HT nylon

• Functions as both a laptop backpack and suitcase
• Well-structured and protected
• Full panel loading access
• Limited colorways

With an understated look that betrays the truly impressive fit and functionality inside, the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L ($279) doesn’t need to brag — it knows it’ll tote your kit through the worst of your travel or everyday commutes without missing a beat. This bag is our newly anointed best commuter-style travel backpack.

From a fabrics and materials standpoint, it’s clear that someone at Evergoods truly nerded out when they brewed up this bindle. The 840D ballistic nylon 6 that makes up the exterior of the pack is burly (errantly spilled coffee wipes right off), and compliments the thick #10 zippers and spacer-mesh back panel. Even the Evergoods logo is low-key: a simple 2×2” patch on the front of the bag with a slash. That’s it — and we dig it.

Bar none, the Civic Panel Loader has the best laptop sleeve we’ve ever encountered in a backpack, and that’s saying something. The side-accessed zippered aperture can hold a 17” Macbook Pro, and nestles into a fully padded space at the rear of the pack. This sleeve is suspended from the bottom of the bag, as we’ve seen in many forward-thinking bags, but goes a step further and protects the laptop from the side with an aluminum stay — the primary functionality of which is to support the side handle on the bag. Genius.

The high-polish finish on the CPL24 feels reminiscent of the attention to detail we loved about the Tom Bihn Synapse 25, but we ended up enjoying this pack even more for a simple reason: side carry. The broad handle on the side of the pack is reinforced by that aluminum stay, and it creates a perfectly supported carry for jostling through crowded terminals.

On the interior of the pack, two large pockets are subdivided with a few smaller sleeves and pockets, which are oriented to be accessed with the bag on its side. We carried this pack for a month straight of remote work, lugging it to coffee shops and co-working spaces, and it supplanted all other packs we’ve used previously. “It’s hard not to love a pack that makes your life easier,” says Senior Editor Nick Belcaster. “This pack does that. Laptop, headphones, notebooks — a whole lot goes into the pack without a care.”

Up there with Nomatic, GORUCK, and Tom Bihn, Evergoods is certainly among the pack-makers that put intelligent design and smart material choice above all else. The Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L is the final word when it comes to a travel pack you can carry every day. We certainly do.

Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack

• Capacity 27.5 L
• Weight 2 lbs., 9 oz.
• Dimensions 18.9" x 11.4" x 5.9"
• Material 420x2000D Cordura nylon, 135D polyester

• Dang good looking
• High-quality trim and details, including anodized G hooks and supple webbing
• Supper cushioned back panel
• Exterior expandable water bottle pocket is a bit slim
• Pack straps don't stow away.

Pulling off a good expandable backpack can be a tough task, with fabric accordion folds often taking up valuable real estate on the interior when collapsed in lesser bags. Not so with the TimBuk2 Never Check ($209), which takes a simple backpack shape and elevates it with premium materials and design to create one of our favorite travel backpacks for tucking under an airliner seat.

Unlike a lot of the pure-function rectangular bags in our lineup, the Never Check is a real looker — easily one of the best styled in our testing so far, and we’d have no qualms about bringing it along as a business bag. Small details like rubber-covered zipper pulls, anodized G hooks, and supple webbing keep it looking sharp. The 27.5-liter size is just about dead-on for most airline ‘personal item’ size requirements, and this bag easily slides under a seat.

The main compartment is accessed through a clamshell zipper on the front of the bag, which is gusseted to hang open while you’re loading it up. During the few national and international flights our Senior Editor Nick Belcaster deployed the bag on, this was easily enough space for everything you might want during a plane ride. And for everything else, a front pocket is lined with multiple drop and zip pockets for organizing small gadgets like chargers or keys.

The back panel of the Never Check is a plush ½ inch of comfortable foam, and combined with the equally padded shoulder straps made for a very nice carrying bag. The straps unfortunately do not stow away, but on a lower volume pack such as this, it’s a much less useable feature in our opinions.  And finally, one of our favorite features: the wide laptop sleeve. This 15” opening is generous enough to accommodate the larger laptops of today, and is suspended from the bottom of the backpack to ensure bumps don’t turn into bruises.

Just like the name suggests, the Never Check Expandable Backpack provides a svelte solution to bringing a bag with you during airline travel — or even just to the office. Its clean profile and attention to detail impressed us, and it would make an excellent work-to-weekend bag.

Matador GlobeRider45 Travel Pack

• Dimensions 22" x 12.8" x 11"
• Compartment access Zippered clamshell design
• Material 420D UHMWPE-reinforced ripstop nylon, 100D Robic nylon mini-ripstop

• Incredible density of pockets and sleeves
• Tough UHMWPE outer fabric can be tossed around
• Shoulder straps tuck away in a novel and smart manner
• Laptop sleeve opening is a bit tight
• Price is up there

With a pocket or sleeve for pretty much everything, the new Matador GlobeRider 45 ($350) gives the Peak Design Travel Pack a run for its money when it comes to the best overall travel pack. 

Our Managing Editor raved about the GlobeRider after serious testing where she pretty much lived out of it for 3 months: “If you travel often and look for crucial components like internal and external pockets, laptop storage, and backpack and hip straps, consider the Matador GlobeRider 45. It’s a unique design in that the [pack] seems to have it all — every feature I’ve needed so far, both living out of it and in my travels — in a pretty packable size.”

What impressed us most was the way the GlobeRider was able to balance both an eye-watering amount of organization and versatility, and burly durability that ensures that this pack won’t shy away from tough travel conditions. In total (and we double-counted) there are 19 individual pockets on the pack, in all types of stretch mesh, zippered, and collapsible configurations. When good organization is key, the GlobeRider reigns. 

On the back panel of the GlobeRider, one of the more novel stowage systems we’ve seen packs away the shoulder straps and hip belt for when you want to slim down the pack. Two zippered panels — similar to the structure of the Peak Design packs, save for the closure — envelop the straps when not in use, and provide a lump-free panel for toting around. 

When it comes to downsides, the GlobeRider doesn’t miss much. The laptop sleeve aperture is a bit small at 9.5”, which in today’s age of mondo-screened computers may be limiting to some with larger devices. There also is no ability to convert the pack to a shoulder bag like the Patagonia MLC does, which can be handy when moving quickly through the airport.

Dang-near the top of the list, the Matador GlobeRider 45 would be an excellent choice for anyone who practices one-bag travel, or desires to have a place for everything in their journeys. The price does sting a bit, but based on the long-term testing we’ve completed so far, we’ve seen no indications that this pack will fade away anytime soon.

Read Review: I Lived Out of This Backpack for 3-Plus Months: Matador Globerider45 Review

Thule Aion 40L

• Weight 3 lbs., 3 oz.
• Dimensions 13" x 9.1" x 20.5"
• Material Waxed P600 polyester canvas

• Maxes out on carry-on-compliant space
• Internal roll-top TPU bag separates the clean from the to-do laundry
• Waxed canvas exterior has a classy look
• Centered side handle carries well
• Well-cushioned back panel
• No shoulder strap stowage option
• No hipbelt on a 40L is pushing it

Better known for their roof boxes and racks, it’s fair to say that Thule knows travel, and the addition of smart, organized, and comfortable travel packs like the Thule Aion 40L ($200) makes all the sense in the world to us. This pack is a finely-honed bag for international and local travel alike, and is decked out in some high-class materials.

Like the Patagonia Black Hole MLC pack, the Aion 40L aims to go for the maximum allowed capacity, and at our measurements (21.5” x 15” x 8”) the pack slides in just half an inch less than the normal 45 linear inches typically allowed. That’s efficient. The space is split up into two main compartments and a laptop sleeve, with the larger opening with a full clamshell zip.

This inner compartment hosts a few zippered pockets and internal compression straps, but the star of the show here is the integrated TPU rolltop bag. This sack can be used to cordon off your liquids (and easily presented for inspection), as well as separate your pile of ‘to-do’ laundry. This reminds us of the ActiveShield compartment in the Gregory Border Traveler pack, but we enjoy the removable aspect here even more. 

Round the back of the pack, the spacer-mesh swaddled laptop sleeve rivals the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader , and has an additional sleeve for items like tablets, notebooks, or chargers. The back panel itself is impressively cushioned (one of the more luxe in our testing) and that extends to the shoulder straps. 

Unfortunately, there’s no shoulder strap-stowage system here, so you’ll have to wrangle those yourself, and while we typically enjoy the lack of a hip belt in smaller travel packs, the absence in a 40-liter pack is a little puzzling. Fully loaded, the Aion could certainly benefit from one, and while a separate sling bag can be added to function as one, you’ll need to fork over $50 for it.

Ranking high up there with your Peak Designs and your Ospreys, the Thule Aion 40L nails the style and material departments, and with a full 40 liters of space on board, has all the room to pack for your week-long trips — no roof box required.

Osprey Archeon 30L

• Capacity 30 L
• Weight 3 lbs.
• Dimensions 20.5" x 13" x 11.4"
• Compartment access Zippered top-access
• Material 840D ballistic polyester with carbonate coating

• Extra-tough exterior fabric with carbonate coating
• High-polish details such as seatbelt webbing straps
• Mini-wing hipbelt tucks away easily when not needed
• Smart internal storage pockets that lay flat when not needed
• Laptop sleeve opening is a bit too snug
• Compression straps lay over the main zipper

First off, one word: Rugged. The Osprey Archeon 30L ($250) is a high-end build that spares little in the material department, and looks dang good while it’s at it. The 30-liter size makes this bag weekend travel-ready, and we greatly appreciated the fit and finish.

The overall design of the Archeon reminds us a good bit of the Peak Design Travel Bag (certainly the all-waterproof exterior zippers and curved side-entry pockets), but it’s the exterior fabric that really impressed. The 840D ballistic polyester is coated with a carbonate polyurethane coating, a bolstered recipe that increases durability by a magnitude over traditional PU coatings. In testing, we wore out before putting a dent in it.

The pack itself breaks down into two main compartments, with the main pocket opening behind a curved clamshell zip (we did have a little trouble with the zipper passing behind the exterior straps. Removing them fixed that). Inside, three expandable tech pockets tuck away all of your small kit, and do a good job of keeping things tidy on the interior.

On the exterior, Osprey doesn’t disappoint when it comes to suspension straps, which are comfortable, adjustable, and stashable. The mini wing-style hip belt earns special praise on packed flights, where we find traditional hip belts to be a hassle to store, and combined with the slick shoulder-strap stash pocket, the Archeon converts to minimal mode in under a minute.

Something the Archeon certainly could use, however, is a slightly larger aperture into the laptop/tech compartment. As-is, the zipper doesn’t quite extend down far enough to truly open up the pocket, and as such it can feel a bit like rummaging around in the dark looking for cords and chargers in the bottom of the pack. Extending these zippers down to the middle of the pack would seem to fix the issue, and we hope a later iteration might address this.

Nonetheless, we were still impressed by the Osprey Archeon 30L . There’s also a 40-liter version if you’re looking for a max-capacity carry-on, and even a smaller 24-liter for kicking around coffee shops day-to-day.

Read Review: Hack Carry-On Rules: Osprey Archeon Kit Gives Power Back to Passengers

Arc’teryx Granville 25 Backpack

• Capacity 25 L
• Weight 1 lb., 14.5 oz.
• Dimensions 22" x 12" x 9"
• Compartment access Drawstring top-entry
• Material N400r-AC² nylon ripstop

• Tough and waterproof exterior fabric
• White interior for easy viewing
• Floating laptop sleeve
• Not very much interior organization
• Simple webbing waistbelt

Made for moving through the city over the concourse, the commute-ready Arc’teryx Granville 25 ($220) takes travel backpacks to the streets in a sleek and tough design that we couldn’t keep from grabbing every day.

Crafted from the same N400r-AC² nylon ripstop as Arc’teryx’s high-end climbing packs, the mountain DNA is strong in the Granville, with fully taped seams that make the pack highly weather-resistant. In our impromptu “rain” test, a garden hose fired directly at the pack wasn’t able to get a drop past the tough exterior.

On the front of the pack, a single water-resistant zippered pocket was practically made for your keys, and could accommodate a few other essentials for when you’re on the go. Tossing back the shaped lid, a single drawstring entry leads to the interior space, which is mainly one large pocket, with a few zippered and drop pockets to separate smaller items. If you’re looking for the same style pack, but with a bit more organization built-in, the Tom Bihn Synapse 25 divides up its space well.

The padded interior laptop sleeve will accommodate up to a 16” laptop, and is suspended within the main compartment in a way that leaves us feeling confident in slinging our computer across a shoulder. Compared to other more airline-focused travel packs, the Granville 25 has its feet more firmly planted on the ground, and excels at bus, bike, or foot travel.

Whether your commute is just across town or across the country, the Arc’teryx Granville 25 makes for a good-looking carry-all that’s bound to be around for a while.

Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 40L

• Weight 3 lbs., 10.4 oz.
• Dimensions 22.5" x 14" x 7.5"
• Material 1000D recycled nylon, 400D recycled nylon, 210D recycled nylon, 1680D recycled ballistic nylon

• Overbuilt design with tough materials and chunky zippers
• Plenty of organizational pockets
• Bright interior
• Not the cleanest strap stowage

Chunky zippers, an overhead-savvy profile, and multiple ways to sling it over your shoulder: The Topo Designs Global Travel Pack ($229) has honed in on much of what we love in a travel backpack.

During a recent trip from Seattle to Southern California we were heavily saddled with the maximum the airline would allow. But this pack made use of every inch of space and reached the allowance of what we could check as our carry-on. The 40 liters of internal capacity is broken down into a series of dividers and pockets, which made condoning off things like electronics from the rest of our kit easy. And the interior of this pack is a cheery canary yellow, which helps with ease and visibility.

On the exterior of this pack, three separate carry styles are available to get you through the concourse in whatever way you choose. We found the full-featured backpack straps to be our go-to, which even sport load-lifters for a comfy carry. This suspension system does tuck away for when you might want to check the bag, though we found the hipbelt to be a bit tricky to fully retract.

Rounding out this travel-ready backpack is a tough build that makes use of 1000D recycled nylon and heavy-duty zippers, and we had no qualms with tossing this bag around during our trip. Perfect for anyone who subscribes to the one-bag travel ethos, the Global Travel Pack from Topo Designs makes the grade for those who want the most out of their carry-on.

And if you’re only going to be away for a short trip, the Global Travel pack is also available in a 30L capacity .

Cotopaxi Allpa 28L Travel Pack

• Capacity 28 L
• Weight 3 lbs., 4 oz.
• Dimensions 19" x 12" x 9"
• Material TPU-coated 1,000-denier polyester, 840-denier nylon paneling

• Burly exterior material holds up for the long run
• Plenty of zippered mesh storage pockets
• On the heavier side
• TPU-coated nylon can feel grabby

The Allpa 28L Travel Pack ($170) will change the way you travel. It’s sleek, durable, and able to fit an incredible amount of stuff in a small space. The zippered mesh pockets keep clothes organized. And the compression straps maximize what you can pack.

The tough polyester and nylon construction can take a beating without any signs of wear. And we appreciate that the externally accessed, padded laptop sleeve makes pulling out your electronics at security checkpoints a breeze. There’s also a small outer compartment to keep essentials at hand.

You can completely tuck away the backpack straps and carry the pack like a briefcase, or wear it comfortably as a backpack. We’ve stuffed this pack to the gills countless times and have never had a problem with the zippers. Light rain showers or spills roll right off the TPU-coated exterior, but for legit rainstorms, just pull out the included rain cover.

The Allpa also comes in 35L, 42L, 50L, and 70L capacities. As our editor noted in the 42L review , “Building on its fun and functional ethos, Cotopaxi beefs up its bestselling product. The Allpa Travel Pack earns big points for clever design, clean aesthetic, and a surprising number of handy — and hidden — features.”

Yes, the Cotopaxi Allpa packs are an investment, but anyone who travels regularly will find it a worthy one. These powerhouse travel backpacks are sturdy, versatile, and built to last.

Tom Bihn Synapse 25

• Weight 1 lb., 13 oz.
• Dimensions 13.4" x 20" x 9.1"
• Material 400-denier Halcyon, 420-denier nylon ripstop

• Many different fabrics and color schemes are available
• Built to last design and materials
• Removable webbing hip belt
• Suspension doesn’t pack away
• Side wing pockets are a little awkward to access

Refined and clean-looking, the Tom Bihn Synapse 25 ($243) is a high-end travel backpack we just can’t stop staring at. It just looks that good. Made of burly textiles and zippers, this pack was built to stand the test of tough travel and come out shining on the other side.

The Synapse 25 is the larger version of Tom Bihn’s Synapse 19 , a popular backpack made for daily carry. The bump in volume is appreciated in this travel-oriented version and is doled out in one large compartment as well as a set of pockets on the front of the pack.

We found all the pockets easily accessible, save for the side wing pockets. While these were excellent for the organization of smaller bits and bobs, the openings were a bit awkward to jump into.

Topped off by a cushioned suspension (the foam is a half-inch of supple EV50), this travel backpack didn’t weigh us down on long days of travel when fully packed. And when we wanted to go light, even the webbing hip belt was removable. In terms of the ability to bop around town as a daily driver, this pack is up there with the TimBuk2 Never Check and Arc’teryx Granville packs (we liked the back panel on this pack the most).

Along with being carry-on compliant, the Synapse is also one of the few bags on our list that are compact enough to fit under most airline seats without hogging too much precious legroom.

Osprey Nebula 32 Daypack

• Capacity 32 L
• Weight 2 lbs., 1.7 oz.
• Dimensions 19.2" x 12.2" x 11.4"
• Material 420-denier recycled nylon

• TSA-compliant laptop sleeve
• Many options for organization
• Water bottle pockets fit 32 oz. bottles
• Need to release two buckles in order to unzip the main pocket all the way

When it comes to backpacks, Osprey has put in the time — and it shows. The Nebula 32 ($140) feels like it’s all the brand’s most popular packs morphed into one. Most of all, we love how it seamlessly goes from city streets to trails.

This backpack can do it all, whether you’re hauling your laptop and books around town; water, food, and layers on an easy hike; or all of the above and then some for a weekend away.

The internal storage pockets are great for organizing all of your things for easy access. And while the Nebula 32 is top-loading, the main pocket opens up wide enough so you won’t have to unload everything to get to the one thing you want at the bottom. The sternum strap and hip belt are comfortable as well, especially when carrying a heavy load.

On smaller volume packs like this, sometimes design concessions need to be made to accommodate all the functionality, and on the Nebula it’s in the side compression straps. Like on the Osprey Farpoint/Fairview, the compression system of the pack overlays across the main compartment zipper, meaning you’ll need to undo some straps before rifling around in the storage area. Not a deal breaker, but a little annoying when the TSA line starts to back up behind you.

Overall, the Nebula 32 won’t disappoint if you make it your go-to smaller-volume travel backpack.

Travel Backpack Comparison Chart

How We Tested Travel Backpacks

The staff of GearJunkie is a hot-footed bunch, restlessly plodding across the country or around the globe in search of adventure and whatever else comes our way. And we have a lot of stuff, which necessitates having a travel bag or four in the stable.

Surely any old bindle will do in carrying your kit around, but having a travel backpack that is dialed into the needs of travel can turn a stressful situation into a manageable one. We’ve been testing travel backpacks since 2019 and have put the market slice through the wringer on thousands of miles of travel to weed out the best of the best.

Senior Editor Nick Belcaster has a zeal for international travel, and he leads up our current travel pack testing, logging almost 10,000 flying miles in the last year alone. From Iceland to Utah, Belcaster has carried these packs and lived out of them for weeks, relying on them to support back-to-back travel excursions. In testing, we looked for a number of features in our travel backpacks, including overall capacity, carry style, durability, and aesthetics. It’s important to think about how you’ll use your travel pack, and as such, every pack on our list is carry-on compliant for the worst-case scenario.

We know no trip will be like the next, so we took a broad swath of the travel backpacks on the market in order to create a list that will suit many different travelers. Packs in hand, over our shoulders, or on our backs, we hit the four corners and tested the best travel backpacks of 2024.

Curious about what we pack in our travel backpacks? We’ve penned up a list for both domestic and international trips .

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose a Travel Backpack

Travel backpack user profiles.

The International Jet-Setter: The term ‘One Bag Travel’ is no stranger to you, and you’ve just about got your life distilled down into 45 liters of space. If international travel is your bag, then a backpack that’s up to the task will be essential to see you through to further time zones. Efficiency will be the name of the game here, and going with a pack that is dang-near the carry-on maximums for international flights will mean you can make it through without checking a bag. Look for near to 45-liter packs with plenty of organization baked in, as well as a comfortable (and stashable) carry system.

For international travel, the bag we reach for most often had to be the Peak Design Travel Backpack , with a razor-thin second place going to the Matador GlobeRider45 Travel Pack . For an emphasis on organization, the Matador SEG45 splits up the volume well, and if you’ll be schlepping bags around a long way, the Osprey Farpoint & Fairview Packs have all the Osprey suspension we love.

The Weekend-Warrior: Maybe it’s a work trip, and maybe it’s just for fun, but it’s only going to take 2-3 days total, and you’ll need a bag that can pack it in. For weekend excursions, we find packs in the 25-35 liter range work well for the minimalists among us, and the 30-40 liter range for those who like a bit more options.

The Tom Bihn Synapse 25 is easily one of the most stylish packs in our review, only slightly edged out by the Timbuk2 Never Check , and both make the grade for a single overnighter in a foreign locale. For a bit more space, you can’t go wrong with the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 40L , a fun pack that is a lot tougher than the multi-colored exterior would let on.

The Commuter: No flight involved! Duty calls, and sometimes you’ll need to lug around a bit more kit than the old briefcase can allow for. Commuting with a travel backpack is a great way to stay comfortable on longer rides, as shoulder and handbags are cumbersome over the long run. Focus on a bag with a more traditional backpack shape that puts an emphasis on ease-of-access, and is in the 20-30 liter range.

For bumping around town, we’ve come to love the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24 , which not only lugs our remote office around with ease, but also looks pretty slick doing it. The drawstring opening here is a huge boon for quickly stashing a jacket, and the tough exterior fears no weather forecast. For a budget just-get-it-done choice, the Dakine Campus 33L will make it happen for less.

The right size pack for you depends on a few things. First, where are you going? And, how long do you plan to stay? Winter travel often comes with more gear, so you’ll need to pack extra layers. Longer trips often require larger bags.

That said, your personal packing style will be the most important factor. We know minimalists who happily travel for months with only a single backpack in tow and others who want the largest travel backpack possible in addition to a totally stuffed duffel bag . One method isn’t better than the other, but knowing your style is helpful when choosing a bag.

In general, we’ve found that something in the 28-45 liter range is ideal for comfort and packability. Many packs will also offer a compression system to allow you to limit the overall volume of the backpack. We’ve seen many different ways to accomplish this, but the most effective by far were the button snaps and expanding zipper of the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L . Packs toward the 40-45 liter range will be your carry-on bags of choice, and the 45-liter Peak Design, Patagonia MLC , and Matador GlobeRider are perfect for maxing out your allowed space. The 40-liter Osprey Farpoint/Fairview packs give up a little internal room for the luxe suspension system they’re carried with.

Packs in the smaller end of the range, from around 25-30 liters, make better personal items, and the TimBuk2 Never Check , Tom Bihn Synapse , and Patagonia Black Hole backpacks all fit snuggly underneath an airliner seat. These small bags move through a city gracefully and look more like everyday carry backpacks than traditional luggage.

What good would a bag be if you couldn’t get into it? From a simple drawstring to a thicket of Velcro and zippers, there are plenty of ways to keep your bag closed while you’re on the go, but not every one will be amenable to travel.

Zippered Clamshells: Most travel backpacks will use a clamshell-style design that opens up the backpack like a suitcase, allowing you to pack intentionally as opposed to stuffing things in. Oftentimes, an internal strap system will help keep your items contained while you’re on the move.

Packs with this clamshell design may also opt to add internal dividers to the main storage area, and make these dividers removable — should you need the entire storage area uninhibited. For packs without internal dividers or straps, consider adding a few packing cubes to keep your items organized.

In addition to the rear entry, some backpacks will offer additional entry points through the top or front of the pack. This can be helpful when you need to quickly retrieve something like a passport from your bag, without the need to totally spill the contents. The majority of packs in our review close in this clamshell manner, and a few of our favorites are the Peak Design Travel Backpack , Osprey Farpoint & Fairview 40 Travel Packs , and Matador GlobeRider45 Travel Pack .

Zippered Top-Access: Much like many traditional backpacks, zippered top-access packs load and unload from the topside, and generally only offer one point of entry/egress into the pack. For this reason, packs of this flavor are generally left packed during travel, as digging around for something at the bottom can be a hassle.

Bags of this stripe, including the uber-nice Tom Bihn Synapse 25 and expandable Timbuk2 Never Check , most often make better personal items over carry-ons, as their smaller volumes make for easier searching within.

Drawstring Top-Entry: While not quite as common as a zippered clamshell or top-access pack, drawstring top-entry packs can make for very quick and easy access to your kit if you’re on the move. These packs will integrate an extended fabric collar to the top of the storage area, which can be compressed when needed, or overstuffed with bulky items like jackets.

Commuters will find drawstring entry bags the most appealing, and the Arc’teryx Granville 25 has become one of our dedicated laptop toters for everything from remote work stints at the coffee shop to jumping on a ferry for work.

Carrying Options

There are plenty of ways to lug your kit to your boarding gate, but not all of them will be comfortable for everything. Over-shoulder backpack straps can support a good bit of weight but typically will need some type of frame to truly be supportive. The Osprey Farpoint/Fairview packs were the best-carrying packs in our testing, owed largely to the wire frame and Airscape mesh back panels, but we also enjoyed the carry of the aluminum frame stays on the Matador GlobeRider.

A shoulder strap travel backpack, like the Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L , can be slung across your body and provide a great amount of accessibility on the go. Don’t expect to carry too much weight this way, however.

And then there’s the classic suitcase style, easily towed anywhere. It’s good to note many travel backpacks will have stowable straps to better streamline the pack for a trip through an X-ray machine or stowed under a seat. The strap storage design of the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L impressed us most of all, utilizing magnetic closure flaps to pack away the shoulder and hip straps neatly.

Pockets & Organization

There’s an organizational saying: “A place for everything and everything in its place.” And we couldn’t agree more. Keeping track of everything while you travel is key for organization. And while more pockets always seem better, there is a threshold where having too many simply becomes more places to misplace things. Instead, we recommend packs with three to six pockets.

The Cotopaxi Allpa and Topo Designs Global Travel Bags both have ingenious inner organization systems complete with large zipping “pockets.” It has just enough space to find room for everything but not so many compartments that you’ll be hunting all day for your misplaced passport. For even more organization, the Matador SEG45 splits into five different segments that are accessible from the exterior of the pack.

Bringing along a laptop is a necessary evil for some travelers, and having an incorporated laptop sleeve in your travel backpack can keep it safe during travel. Most laptop sleeves will be padded with some type of foam and nestle in close to the back for maximum protection. In order to be TSA-compliant, a laptop sleeve will need to fold entirely flat away from the pack to be scanned.

Because flying with liquids over 3.4 ounces is prohibited in the U.S., carrying all of these items in a separate toiletry bag can make your foray into the screening line a breeze. Many of the packs on our list incorporate many external pockets where such a bag could be stashed and produced when needed.

Travel luggage takes a beating, so durability is a top concern. Luckily, gear manufacturers realize this and are making increasingly burly yet portable packs. The fan-favorite Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L pack is made with a 900-denier ripstop nylon outer with a TPU laminate for extra durability. It’s nearly indestructible, water-resistant, and versatile.

If you’re traveling somewhere with inclement weather or if your pack needs to double as a climbing bag or hiking pack, durability is extra important. And it’s worth paying more for a backpack that is water-resistant.

Space Efficiency & Carry-On Compliance

Astute observers will note many of the packs in our review sport a rectangular shape, which is certainly due to designers aspiring to create a more space-efficient pack. This isn’t to say that more shapely packs won’t make it happen, but when you’re struggling to make every liter of space count, maximizing dimensions matters.

Carry-on luggage is any bag that you plan on bringing into an airplane and storing in the overhead bins. Because space is limited, airlines dictate the maximum size that any carry-on can be. In the U.S., the most common size is 22 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches, or 45 linear inches (length + width + height). However, this is just a rough guideline; some airlines differ from these dimensions, and you should refer to their information directly.

In general, these dimensions provide a travel backpack with around 40-45 liters of internal volume, so buying a pack that’s as close to that as possible will provide the most space allowed. Many of the packs on our list have the ability to compress to a smaller size, such as the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L .

Be mindful as well, that any protrusions from your travel pack such as shoulder straps or handles will also need to fall within the maximum allowed size. Many travel backpacks today incorporate some type of strap-stowing ability, such as the magnetic panels of the Peak Design packs, the zippered cover of the Osprey Farpoint/Fairview, and the hybrid zipper/panel of the Matador GlobeRider 45. All of these provide a more streamlined profile that should both hit the mark, and fit better into overhead bins.

Travel backpacks run the gamut of prices — from affordable to downright pricey. There are a number of factors that play into what you get for the money.

Budget-Minded Travel Packs

Travel backpacks, as a category, are generally a bit pricer than your average luggage, as they incorporate tough materials that can put up with extensive wear over the lifespan. Travel is tough on bags, so it’s unsurprising that even budget travel backpacks will cost you around $100-150. These packs often will incorporate more traditional architectures such as a zippered top access, as opposed to the more complicated (and spendy) full-zip clamshell designs. For example, the Dakine Campus ($75) is pretty much your average school bag.

Volumes, too, will be a bit limited in this price range — added material adds cost. The 32-liter Osprey Nebula ($140) is about the best price-to-volume ratio you can get.

Mid-Range Travel Packs

Mid-range packs make up the bread and butter of travel packs, and can be had for around $150 to $200. These designs are often more of the full carry-on variety, and aim to capitalize on permitted volume as much as possible. The 45-liter Matador SEG45 ($200), Patagonia Black Hole MLC ($239), 40-liter Osprey Farpoint/Fairview ($185), and Topo Designs Global Travel Bag ($229) all shoehorn in just about as much space as a friendly gate agent will let you get away with.

For the price, you also get a good variety of functionality that makes travel easier, such as stowable pack straps, interior segmented pockets and sleeves (done excellently on the $170 Cotopaxi Allpa ), and an external compression system that limits the space your bag takes up. Some packs, like the TimBuk2 Never Check ($209), don’t exactly hit these parameters, but instead make up for it in high-quality design and materials.

Premium Travel Packs

Above $250, you’re likely paying for premium materials or a to-the-hilt design that leaves absolutely nothing on the cutting room floor. The Peak Design Travel Backpack ($300) is a great example, and utilizes super high-quality nylon canvas, custom aluminum hardware, and supple seatbelt material webbing in its build, as well as fitting in just about every conceivable feature you could want in a travel pack. The same can be said of the Matador GlobeRider 45 ($350), which uses high-tech UHMPWE-reinforced materials and sports a total of 19 pockets.

The Tom Bihn Synapse 25 ($243) is a bit of an outlier, as it commands a high dollar amount not for the extreme amount of space it offers or amount of features, but for being a hyper-customizable, hand-made bag that uses the nicest textiles available, as well as the best zippers, webbing, and foam in its design. If you’re a fan of the finest materials, this is your daily driver pack.

What Is One Bag Travel?

The ‘One Bag Travel’ ethos and travel backpacks go hand-in-hand. Simply put, to travel in one-bag style is to be minimalist in your luggage choices, and only take what you can carry onto the plane/train/pack animal. Not only does this do away with the fuss of deciding what exactly to bring along with you, but it also allows for breezing through airports — skipping the need to check baggage, wait at baggage claim, or fear for lost luggage.

In order to most effectively travel with one bag, be sure to read up on exactly the baggage size allowances provided by your transportation. This can affect both overall size and weight, and having an expandable pack is a large benefit here. In this way, you can carry just enough to skirt through under the limit, and then expand the bag when you’ve hit your destination for more breathing room. If you aim for a 35-40 liter backpack, you’ll be right on the money for one-bag travel.

Finally, remember that this bag is going to be the only item of luggage you’ve got, so ensure it’ll be comfortable enough for the long haul. Look for padded back panels and hip belts that’ll transfer the load correctly, and if they stash away — all the better.

Our team unanimously agrees that the best travel backpack is the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L . It’s extremely durable, and it offers plenty of organizational pockets to stash your kit away in. The clamshell opening makes packing a breeze, and we really appreciated the unique shoulder strap storage options available to turn the pack into a stripped-down bag that would slide into any overhead compartment.

The best size bag for traveling depends largely on your travel itinerary and mode of transport. The Cotopaxi Allpa packs range from 28 to 42 liters.

The 28-liter option makes for a compact and comfortable backpack that easily fits in overhead airplane compartments. The 42-liter option is a bit more like carrying a duffel bag on your back, but it still manages to fit in overhead compartments. It’s a great option for maximizing carry-on capacity in backpack form.

While both have their place in travel, a backpack can offer some advantages over a suitcase. Since they’re much more portable, backpacks can be brought to many more places where a suitcase won’t work. Suitcases can be your large load carriers, but a good travel backpack gives you the freedom to strike out on daily adventures.

Travel backpacks absolutely can be carry-on luggage, given they meet the size requirements. In the U.S., the most common maximum size is 22 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches, or 45 linear inches (length + width + height). But this is only a common size, and different airlines will have different specifics. Consult with your airline specifically to determine what they allow.

While different body types will find different travel packs comfortable, we can all agree that a good support system and ample foam make for a comfortable carry. In our own testing, we found the Osprey Farpoint 40 and Fairview 40 Travel Packs were by far the most comfortable due to their plush suspension systems.

Because many different airlines operate a slate of different planes, there isn’t a standard under-seat luggage size, although there is an average: 16 inches x 12 inches x 6 inches. Some airlines allow personal items larger than this, but you should consult with their customer service for specifics. Our favorite personal item-sized travel pack was the Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack , which at 24 liters compressed easily slides under a seat.

The Best Laptop Backpacks of 2024

Whether you’re headed to the office, class, or even the trailhead, here’s our top picks for the best laptop backpacks of 2024.

The Best Daypacks of 2024

We tested the best daypacks of 2024 with options for every budget. Top picks include Osprey, Cotopaxi, and more.

Hailing from the hemlocks and hanging mosses of Washington State, Senior Editor Nick Belcaster is an adventure journalist following threads of stories across the West. Cruelly stolen from the alpine swales of rural Wisconsin at a young age, Nick made do ascending the snows and granite of the North Cascades while completing a journalism degree. A long stint on the Pacific Crest Trail in 2018 codified a life bent on sleeping on minor slopes and picking devil’s club out of his shoes.

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How To Choose The

Best Travel Backpack

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

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

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

Save on an annual plan with Incogni to stop spam and robocalls. Check it out →

Best Travel Backpacks

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

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

See all reviews: Travel Backpacks

How to Select The Best Backpack for One Bag Travel

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

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

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

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

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

Is It Better To Travel With a Backpack or Suitcase?

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

They Feel Freeing

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

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

Travel Backpacks are Versatile & Usually Lightweight

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

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

They Provide Flexibility

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

Utilizing a Backpack in Travel Contexts

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

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

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

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

Why We Like It

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

What You Should Know

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Video Guide Part 2: Form

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

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

Best Backpack Size & Weight for Carry-On Air Travel

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

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

True Volume

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

Pack’s Exterior Profile

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

Max Legal Carry-On

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

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

Top-loading vs Panel-loading (Clamshell) Backpacks

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

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

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

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

Weather Resistance

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

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

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

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

Durability and Quality

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

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

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

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

Backpack Fabric and Material

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

Ripstop Nylon

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

Ballistic Nylon

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

CORDURA® Nylon

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

Kodra Nylon

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

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

Polypropylene

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

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

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

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

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

Dyneema® Composite Fabric

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

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

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

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

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

Video Guide Part 3: Function

Best Backpack for Comfortable Wear and Extended Travel

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

Men’s Focused Fit Vs Women’s Focused Fit

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

• Smaller hip belt with a more pronounced curve

Backpack Straps

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sternum Straps

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

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

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

How Do you Pack the Thing?

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

Best Travel Backpack | Configuring a backpack.

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

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

Modular Backpack System

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Packing Cubes

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

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

Compression and Expandability

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

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

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

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

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

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

Security Backpacks

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

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

Lockable Zippers & Anti-Theft Backpacks

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

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

Anti-Theft Backpack Materials

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

RFID Blockers (Identity Theft-Proof Backpacks)

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

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

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

Video Guide Part 4: Aesthetic

Finding the Best Travel Backpack Style For You

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

Minimalist Travel Backpacks

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

• Minaal Carry-On 3.0

Tacticool Backpacks

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

• Mission Workshop Radian

Outdoor & Hiking Backpacks

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

• Gregory Zulu 40

Backpacker Backpacks

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

• Gregory Detour 40

Heritage Backpacks

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

• Red Oxx C-ruck Carry-on Rucksack

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

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

There Really is No “Best Travel Backpack”

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

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

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

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

Author: Tom Wahlin

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

5 best backpacks for every travel style

Editor's Note

My purple camo Trans by Jansport backpack served me well for 20-plus years. It accompanied me to several countries, on countless road trips and along many hikes.

However, as I improved my packing strategies and my needs changed, I realized my current backpack situation was not ideal.

My bag lacked padding for my laptop, which I never travel without these days. It didn't include enough compartments for me to stay organized, either. Also, I've lost more than a handful of water bottles over the years, thanks to the short and loose side pockets.

Backpack benefits

The best travel backpacks are durable, well-organized and roomy enough for all your travel essentials.

They can also be more comfortable for frequent use. Because they're better at distributing weight, they're less likely to cause musculoskeletal damage that lugging a heavy tote bag on one shoulder might.

"Carrying heavy weight on one side of the body can cause a forward tilt of the shoulder, and poor posture, which can lead to shoulder and back pain long-term," said Dr. Jenny Yu, head of medical affairs at Healthline Media (which is owned by TPG's parent company, Red Ventures).

Backpacks are also easier to manage than rolling carry-ons, making your sprint to your connecting flight a little more efficient.

It was time to level up. Choosing the perfect replacement was a daunting task, though. I researched several models from different brands in varied price ranges.

Considerations when choosing a backpack

The type of bag you choose depends largely on how you plan to use it. Will it serve as your go-to bag for day trips, work commutes and road trips? Or, do you need a sturdy backpack for camping, hiking and long-haul flights or extended travel?

Once you narrow down your needs, it's easier to hone in on your other requirements.

Your travel plans and how you plan to use your backpack will likely determine how small or large your bag should be.

A park day out with the kids or a cruise port shore excursion may just require a small (6–10L) bag. Daypacks, typically 10–30L, are fine for your work commute or hiking. For travel purposes — from weekend getaways to multiday vacations — backpacks in the 30–45L range are your best bet.

On most U.S. airlines, a 45L backpack is the maximum size carry-on allowed. If you're flying on a budget carrier, you'll probably want to stick with something under the 40L range.

For packing purposes, a 45L bag is a good option if you're not bringing another carry-on. It should be able to hold four large packing cubes, a medium packing cube and a toiletry bag. This size fits in the overhead compartment.

Storing your backpack in the overhead bin? It shouldn't be larger than 22 by 14 by 9 inches.

You can fit two large packing cubes, a medium cube and a small toiletry bag in a 35L backpack. It should fit under the seat in front of you on the aircraft.

If you want to ensure your backpack fits under the seat, it can't exceed 18 by 14 by 8 inches, according to airline policy.

Related: How to tell if your backpack counts as a personal or carry-on item.

Backpacks can feature a variety of anti-theft components — some styles are more robust than others.

You may not need your bag to be at a Fort Knox level of security, but it should inclfeatures that can protect you (and your belongings) from thieves or pickpockets.

Consider a backpack constructed with slash-resistant material and straps, as well as lockable zippers.

Bags that offer RFID protection are lined with a special material that blocks accidental payments and intentional skimming of credit cards. They can prevent criminals from electronically accessing your personal information.

Compartments

If you use packing cubes, this might not be as big of a consideration for you. Even with packing cubes, I like having smaller sections for things I need to access easily — my phone, chargers, reporter notebook (yeah, I'm old school), passport and other necessities.

What do you typically pack in your backpack? As I mentioned, a laptop pocket is essential for me. I also like to have hidden pockets to store my passport, COVID-19 vaccine card and wallet. Separate areas to stash my sunglasses, chargers, keys and other important items I travel with are important, too.

Keeping the above features in mind, I reviewed five backpacks ranging in price and style. Here's the round-up.

Related: Here's what to pack in a carry-on bag every time you travel

Patagonia — Black Hole 32L Travel Pack

What I liked

The Patagonia Black Hole 32L Travel Pack is completely constructed with 100% recycled materials, including the body fabric, lining and webbing. It comes in a handful of colors — gold, red, black and gray/blue. The shinier shell has a polyurethane coating that makes it water-resistant.

This bag is also Fair Trade Certified™ sewn (as are all Patagonia products). Since the program launched in 2014, it has impacted more than 75,000 workers in 10 countries.

The lightweight bag packs flat and is very flexible. At first glance, I wondered if it would be structured enough to protect my laptop. However, the padded pocket worked well and fits most 15-inch laptops. The pocket is also slightly elevated from the bottom of the bag, which can protect your laptop if the bottom of your bag gets wet.

Both my 28- and 40-ounce insulated water bottles fit easily in the side pockets.

I tested this bag (along with the Away F.A.R. backpack) during a recent long-haul trip to South Africa. I packed:

• My 13-inch laptop.
• A 28-ounce insulated water bottle (filled once I passed through security).
• Compression socks.
• Travel pillow.
• Cross-body bag containing my passport, credit cards and money.
• A small reporter's notebook.
• Two paperback books.
• Makeup bag.
• Toiletry bag.
• A large Ziploc bag filled with snacks (protein bars, as well as bags of almonds and trail mix.

Filled, the backpack weighed just under 10 pounds.

I was impressed with the number of items I was able to pack. This backpack is like the clown car of backpacks. The sturdy straps held it in place and it never felt cumbersome to carry.

The pocket section of the bag zips open so you can lay it flat for going through the TSA scanner. (If you have Global Entry or TSA PreCheck , you won't need to worry about that, though.)

I liked the two rows of daisy chain-style loops on the outside of the bag. It's good for hanging bulky items or things you don't want to get crushed inside.

If you plan to long-distance hike with this bag, there's a hole at the top for the hose of your hydration pack.

Other considerations

The Patagonia Black Hole Travel Pack doesn't offer RFID protection. However, if the wallet that holds your ID and credit cards has the RFID protection feature, you should be covered.

Although this bag has an air mesh back panel for increased ventilation, other reviewers commented that the airflow wasn't substantial enough to prevent a sweaty back. I didn't encounter that issue. This bag doesn't include a hip belt, which could provide more stability. I typically don't use hip belts on backpacks, so I didn't mind it missing here.

Sizing: 16.93 by 7.87 by 23.03 inches, 1.1 pounds (empty).

Price: Around $249 on Amazon.

Arlo Skye — The Backpack

The brand's luggage line consistently garners high praise from reviewers, so I figured its one backpack offering, The Backpack , would be pretty solid. Color options are mint and black. It arrived tucked in a large reusable drawstring bag that included a handy silica gel pack, one of my essential travel accessories .

I tested a black backpack. I liked the bag's sleek design and leather top handle and trim. The water-resistant material is a nylon and polyester blend.

A tiny zip pocket at the top of the bag is the ideal spot to stash my earbuds, charger or a small pair of sunglasses. If you don't have a clunky set of keys, they may fit as well. I set off my car alarm attempting to shove mine into the small pocket.

The front section has a zippable mesh pocket, and two RFID-lined slip pockets for secure storage of your credit cards, ID and passport. A decent-size (9.5 by 7 inches) front pocket with a zipper provides easy access to your smartphone, keys and other items. There was room enough to store my Kindle (without its cover). There's also an attached key leash.

A middle section provides an open pocket for a tablet or iPad, and two smaller pockets — one of them, an expandable mesh. The third (back) portion of the bag is a padded laptop compartment that fits up to a 15" laptop.

The backpack also features a wide back sleeve that fits securely over the handle of carry-on luggage.

If you need a backpack that could serve as your one and only carry-on, this may not work for you. It's roomy enough for basics and a minimalist packer could possibly fit a weekend's worth of clothes and essentials in it. However, I think it would be a better option for your daily commute, weekend road trips or day trips.

The water bottle pockets were kind of useless to me. The pockets don't expand and there is no give in the material, so you're somewhat limited in bottle size.

It barely fit my 28-ounce insulated water bottle (I couldn't push the bottle all the way to the bottom of the pocket). However, you would probably be fine with a purchased 16-ounce plastic bottle of water.

I don't like storing my water bottle inside my backpack because of potential leaks (and water damage to my laptop), so I ended up carrying my 40-ounce bottle separately. There is a metal hook on one side of the bag so you could attach an insulated bottle to it with a carabiner.

Sizing: 11.8 by 7.5 by 17.7, 2.1 pounds (empty).

Price: $250.

Away — F.A.R. Backpack 26L

Away has a sizable fan base ( including TPG staffers ) thanks to its stylish hard-side rolling luggage.

F.A.R. (For All Routes) is the brand's recently launched outdoor line. The collection is designed with frequent travelers and outdoor adventurers in mind. Bags in the collection are constructed with lightweight 100% recycled polyester, and are abrasion- and water-resistant. The zippers and webbing are also made with recycled materials.

I tested the 26L backpack . The bag arrived wrapped in a plant-based compostable plastic bag, which is in line with the brand's push toward offering more sustainable and environmentally friendly products.

It's available in five colors — black, vivid blue, red-orange, burgundy and (dark) green.

As I mentioned above, I tested this bag on my return long-haul flight from South Africa. On the trip home, it contained everything I packed in the Patagonia backpack, as well as two small bags of souvenirs I snagged at the airport on the way out.

Since it's a bit smaller than the Patagonia backpack I carried first, I was concerned it wouldn't hold everything I started my trip with. I was pleasantly surprised it did with no issues.

The two side pockets for water bottles are roomy. The features list reads that the pockets fit up to 32-ounce bottles, but my 40-ounce insulated bottle fits easily (though I traveled with a 28-ounce bottle).

This backpack had lots of pockets and hidden storage. The front compartment has interior slip pockets for easy access to small essentials like your wallet, smartphone, passport, a book or two, chargers and other items. It was a slightly tighter fit once filled, but I suspected it would be given the size difference.

The main compartment features a larger slip pocket for your laptop. The padding wasn't quite as thick as the Patagonia laptop pocket, but it was enough that I didn't worry about it being damaged.

Two hidden zipper pockets on each side are so well concealed I wouldn't have found them if I hadn't read the features card included with the backpack.

You can attach your keys or other items to the bag's wide front webbing loops. Also, the thick backpack trolley strap slips easily onto your luggage handle.

In addition to the backpack I tested, the F.A.R. line includes three sizes of duffles, a 45L backpack, a water bottle bag, a packing cube, a zippered pouch and a messenger bag.

Of the five backpacks I tested, this was probably my favorite. Based on my experience with this brand, I will likely add more F.A.R. products to my travel arsenal.

Sizing: 19 by 12.6 by 7.7 inches, .78 pounds (empty).

Price: $130.

Solo Re:Claim

One of the products in Solo's Re:Cycled collection, the Solo Re:Claim is made from Polyethylene terephthalate (PET), a type of strong, lightweight and 100% recyclable plastic. The collection is reasonably priced and includes additional backpacks, totes, rolling cases, laptop sleeves and other products (all constructed from recyclable plastic).

The bag I tested was heather-grey. It also comes in burgundy and navy (though the navy backpacks were unavailable at the time of writing this).

The backpack is water-resistant and comes with a five-year limited warranty. It features a smaller padded front zippable pocket with compartments for pens, cards, your phone and a tablet, as well as a small clip for your keys. A roomy fully-padded compartment fits 11- to 15.6-inch laptops.

There are mesh pockets on each side for water bottles. Although the pockets give a little, I struggled to squeeze in my 28-ounce insulated bottle. Once I got it in, though, I felt confident it wouldn't fall out.

A tag was included in the packaging with information about Solo's partnership with the National Forest Foundation. The company plants trees with every bag sold from its Recycled Collection.

I didn't really care for the two handles at the top of the backpack. They were located on each side of the opening with a wrap-like velcro to connect them. It was kind of annoying to have to take it apart every time I wanted to unzip the bag.

I usually travel with a 40-ounce bottle, which did not fit in the side pockets.

Sizing: 16.5 by 12.25 by 6.75 inches, 1.2 pounds (empty).

Price: About $67.26 on Amazon.

Briggs & Riley — @Work Large Cargo Backpack

This backpack is ideal for work commuters and business travelers who need a sleek and professional-looking bag to carry their business essentials. It's also roomy enough to pack clothes and toiletries you'd need for an overnight stay if needed.

The hefty price tag might intimidate you. However, when you consider the company's lifetime replacement warranty and consistently positive customer reviews, I feel like it's worth the investment.

It has an interior organizer, main and laptop compartments, a durable fabric lining, an RFID-blocking pocket with two hidden credit card pockets that hold a wallet and passport.

There are also three elastic slip pockets with leather tabs to organize smaller items such as cords and USB drives and two more slip pockets to store other items.

Its top cargo pocket on the front panel holds travel accessories. It features two elastic pen loops, a large main compartment, a full-length slip pocket in the main compartment for storing folders or files, as well as two elastic pockets in the main compartment for storing cables and chargers.

It also includes a laptop compartment with a padded sleeve, plus a padded tablet pocket in the laptop compartment.

The exterior is 1600D ballistic nylon that resists wear, moisture, dirt and abrasion. The front panel also has a leather nameplate on the front (that you can monogram), a deep zip pocket on the front panel for easy access to items such as sunglasses or a smartphone, top-grain leather carry handles and a gusseted side u-zip pocket with an elastic band for a water bottle.

The backpack has adjustable padded straps, an aerated mesh back padding and a slip-through back panel that allows the backpack to slide over a luggage handle and bottom corner guards to protect the backpack from wear and tear.

It's very comfortable. I'm surprised at how light it feels given its large size. I tested it during my daily office commute. It holds my laptop, charger, wallet, phone and an extra pair of shoes.

I also appreciated the light contrasting shade of the bag's inside lining — it's so much easier to find my items.

Color choices are limited to black and dark grey. However, if you're using it for daily work or business travel, you want something that looks professional and this definitely fits the bill.

Additionally, there aren't any real external gear attachment options. The bag does include a removable luggage tag, which is nice.

Sizing: 19 by 15 by 8 inches, 3.2 pounds (empty).

Price: $379.

Related: What your luggage brand says about you

Bottom line

A well-organized and sturdy travel backpack is worth its weight in gold.

If you expect a lot out of your bag and want it to last through all your future travels, you may want to spend a little more on it. If you travel occasionally and just need a backpack for convenience, lower-priced options should suffice for your needs.

Before you buy your next backpack (or other travel essentials), check out TPG's guides to airline and shopping portals, as well as the best credit cards for online shopping. That way, the gear you buy for your next trip can also help you pay for it.

Do you have a backpack you can't do without? Let us know in the TPG Lounge or email us at [email protected]. We're always on the lookout for products that make travel easier and we would love to hear from you.

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59+ Best Carry on Backpacks for Travel in 2024: An Expert Guide to the Best Bags Ever for Any Traveler, Any Trip

The luggage you carry when traveling can either go pleasantly unnoticed or create all sorts of unnecessary headaches.  For this reason, on your adventures around the world, taking a carry on backpack for travel, as your only bag, is one of the best ways to improve the quality of your adventure. By traveling the world with only what fits overhead in your international flight saves time, money, and stress, leaving energy for the more enjoyable experiences to come.

In this list of the best carry on backpacks for travel, I’ll share my favorite carry on sized backpacks for weekend trips and years around the world, tech heavy travels, and outdoor adventures, with the perfect carry on sized backpack for every type of traveler.

For over three years I’ve wandered the worlds searching for adventure, exploring urban paradises, and aiming to experience everything in between. Throughout that journey I’ve learned that the baggage you take can enhance your travels or weigh you down, heavily depending on what you aim to find during your travels, where you go, and what you’ll carry. But , no matter how you travel…lighter is better, and “carry on only” travel or “onebag travel” makes for lighter minds and freer adventures.

Read on to discover the best carry on backpacks for travel trekking & trail , urban adventures , women , durability , and weekend travel in this list of the best travel packs for onebag and carry on travel.

(This article contains affiliate links )

Contents of this Ultimate Carry on Backpacks List

• Quick List of the Best Carry On Backpacks for Travel
• Criteria to Consider when choosing a carry on bag

Carry On Backpack Size Guidelines and Recommendations

Major airline carry on regulations.

• Best 45L Carry On Backpacks (Big Enough for World Travel)

Best 40L Carry On Backpack (Big Enough for World Travel)

• Best 35L Carry On Backpacks (Urban Travel Around the World or Adventurous Weekends)
• Best 30L and Smaller Carry On Backpacks (Weekender Bags that Double as Daypacks)
• Best Convertible Duffle Bags as Carry On Backpacks
• Best Carry-On Backpacks for Women
• Toughest Carry On Travel Backpacks
• Weather Proof Carry On Backpacks
• Minimalist and Lightweight Carry-On Backpacks
• Best Anti-theft Carry On Backpack
• Best Trekking, Outdoor, and Adventure Carry On Backpacks
• Best Budget Carry On Backpacks (Under $150)
• Best Carry On Backpack with Wheels
• Packing Cubes
• Packable Daypacks
• Frequently Asked Questions About Carry On Bags

Quick List of the Best Carryon Backpacks

Best 45L Carry On Backpack (Big Enough for World Travel)

• Tortuga Outbreak 45L

GORUCK GR3 45L

• Osprey Porter 46L
• The Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45 (45L)

Nomatic Navigator 32L Travel Bag (Expandable to 41L)

Nomatic travel backpack (40l), goruck gr2 40l.

• Thule Landmark 40
• Topo Design Global Travel Bag (40L)
• GORUCK Rucker Long Range (39L)

REI Ruckpack 40 (Temporarily Discontinued)

Best 35l carry on backpacks.

• Minaal Carry On 2.0 (35L)
• Aer Travel Pack 3 (35L) or 2 (32L)
• Cotopaxi Allpa (35L)
• Peak Design Travel Bag (35L expandable to 40L)

Best 30L and Smaller Carry On Backpacks : Small Travel Backpacks Big Enough for Weekend Trips

Best Carry On Travel Backpack for Women

• REI Trail 40 (Women’s)
• REI Flash 45 (Women’s)
• Osprey Fairview 40

Osprey Fairview 55

• Women’s Kelty Redwing 36L and 55 L
• REI Ruckpack 40 (Temporarily Discontinued)**

Most Durable Carry on Backpack for Travel

• SPEC OPS T.H.E. Pack

Best Weatherproof Carry on Backpack s

Best Minimalist Carry On Backpacks

• Patagonia MLC Black Hole 45L

Best Anti-theft Backpack s

• Pacsafe Venture Safe EXP45 (45L) and EXP35 (35L)
• Pacsafe Ventures Safe 40

Best Outdoor and Adventure Carry On Backpacks

• REI Trail 40

REI Flash 55

• Gregory Zulu 40 backpack
• Osprey Kestrel 38
• Kelty Redwing 50

Best Cheap and Starter Carry On Backpacks (Under $150)

• Osprey Farpoint 40

Osprey Farpoint 55

• Standard Luggage 3 in 1 Carry On

eBags TLS Mother Lode Weekender

Best Duffelbags that Double As Carry On Backpacks

• Tom Bihn Aeronaut 45L Convertible Travel Duffle
• The North Face Base Camp Duffel
• Peak Designs Duffle **
• Patagonia Black Hole Duffle **
• Monarc Settra Duffel Backpack **
• Kaka Carry On Duffle Backpack **
• WANDRD HEXAD Access Duffle Backpack **
• Osprey Transporter **
• Tom Bihn Technonaut 30 L and 45L**

Best Carry On Backpacks on Wheels

• Topo Designs Travel Bag Roller **
• Osprey Sojourn **

Extra Space Options

• GORUCK Brick Bag

Best Compressible Duffles and Hand Carry Luggage

• GORUCK Kit Bag 32L

REI Roadtripper Duffle 40L

Other Well Reviewed Backpacks and Brands

( Click here to return to the table of contents )

Click here to jump to our Full List of the Best Carry On Backpacks

Characteristics of the Best Carry on Backpacks for Travel

Meets carryon restrictions for most airlines and can be compressed slightly to meet the rest

Most airlines limit carry on sizes to 9 inches x 14 inches x 22 inches  (22 centimeters x 35 centimeters x 56 centimeters) and 40lbs, however the carry on limitations tend to vary by continent and airline with budget airlines in Europe and Southeast Asia having more strict limits. (Click here to see carry on limits by country)

Front-loading or clamshell Design: allows easily accessing anywhere in the bag easily, without unpacking much Lightweight via simple design, innovative materials, and efficient construction saving more weight and space for packing

Comfortable shoulder straps that stabilize the load letting you use it on any terrain

Comfortable yet functional hip belt so they can be used for long walks on any terrain

Durable enough to survive at least 2-3 years of constant travel and hard abuse (budget bags) and the rest should last for life

Fit : The bags shoulder straps, height, width, and waist belt fit your body

Size: The bag’s capacity fits your packing needs, with room for everything you need to travel comfortably, and the dimensions fit the maximum size for your preferred mode of travel – airplane carry on, train, bus, et.c

Sufficient Pockets and Organization : The bag has room and logically placed pockets for everything you’ll carry and in a thoughtful way. Small, zippered and secure pockets for passports, cell phones, credit cards etc., space for shoes (if you prefer), laptop storage, etc.

Designed functionally for your travel plans : Trekking through Patagonia, backpacking Europe, weekend trips, etc.

Other Details to Consider

• Shoulder Strap padding thickness, softness, and construction
• Hip Belt Construction: Padded? Integrated Pockets? Detachable and stowable?
• Sternum Strap: Included?
• Back Panel: Padded and breathable?
• External Pockets and Organization: Water bottle pocket, quick access pockets for valuables (phone, passport, cash)
• Internal Pockets and Organization: Sufficient for your needs?
• Dedicated Laptop Compartment or Laptop Protectioion Sleeve

A Guide to choosing the best carry on backpack for you

No single carry on backpack will be perfect for every occasion, but the best carry on backpacks for travel will be perfect for their intended uses and type of travel – urban adventures, trekking, nomading, etc.. The best approach to picking the right carry on backpack for you is to understand what you will use a backpack for and you can pick the right bag accordingly. From there, look at each backpack option feature by feature and category by category based on the essential criteria you should consider for your backpack

Size and Capacity

Less than 45 liter capacity and airline maximum dimensions (generally 22″ x 14″ x 9″ ) but sufficient to pack clothing and goods for your entire trip if the bag is your only bag.

For world travel and a single bag, 45 liters is sufficient if you are a minimalist packer.

For one week to month of travel, 35L to 45L is sufficient.

For a weekend trip, 25 liters to 35 liters of space is sufficient for most people.

Design: Open Flat Design, Either Clamshell Opening, Top Loading, or Back Loading

Picking a backpack that opens flat instead of a toploading backpack, common in school bags and back country/hiking backpacks, makes it easy to access anything anywhere in your backpack very easily.

Paired with packing cubes an open flat design in a backpack makes packing and unpacking insanely easy

Organization, Pockets, and Features

The possible features on good, well designed carry on backpacks, like the ones on this list, is nearly limitless. As such, not all features are suited to all travelers or travel, and including them all would actually make a bad backpack – heavy, with wasted space.

Instead, aim for a backpack with the organization, pockets, and features that fit your style of travel and you as a traveler. Whether you’re a tech-heavy digital nomad, a 20 something-year-old backpacking through Europe, or a minimalist slow traveler, aim for features that are useful, and ideally essential, to you.

Popular features on carry on backpacks to consider:

• Quick access pockets outside for passports, phones and cash
• Water bottle holder
• Padded waist belt with pockets
• Tech Pockets and Organization inside and outside
• Heavily padded shoulder pads

Comfort (Shoulders and Back)

The main reason for using a backpack for travel is the convenience of wearing it, instead of dragging it behind you on cobblestone roads, or over the shoulder like a duffle bag. For this plan, of ease and more comfort, to work out well the bag needs to be comfortable.

No matter what bag you choose initially, test it out under light conditions with 25 to 40 lbs of weight, at home aiming to keep it clean so you can return it if need be.

Comfortable shoulder straps are the most important point of the bag. Wide, thickly padded shoulder straps will make a lot of difference when walking several blocks through the city to get from your accommodation to your bus stop or train, or even taking your bag around the city.

A breathable, supportive, and ideally contoured back panel is the second most important aspect for a comfortable backpack.

Individual preference for fit and feel comes last, but is very important. Feel how the bag’s shoulder straps, hip belt, and back panel contour to your body, as well as where the weight sits, and judge accordingly.

Examine the bag fabric, stitching, buckles, webbing, zipper quality, durability, and construction based on what you’ll need for your travels and adventures.

The primary cloth used in a backpack is one of the most important aspects of its construction for durability, as it’s abrasion resistance, tear resistance, and strength dictate how long it will last. For instance, 1000 denier Cordura nylon, used as the external cloth on many tactical backpacks, offers some of the highest abrasion and tear resistance, while sail cloth offers great waterproofing.

Polyester cloths on the other hand are very prone to quick wear and damage.

For the highest durability aim for packs with high denier nylon, sailcloth, or a proven experimental fabric used from another industry

Weather Resistance

If you plan to travel through potentially rainy places, especially if you’ll be backpacking around the world, if you have electronics (such as a laptop) it is worth looking at backpacks with weather resistance. Though none of the best travel-sized carry-on backpacks are 100% waterproof, many, such as the Tortuga Outbreaker are constructed with waterproof fabrics and shielded zippers lending protection from the rain.

If you need truly waterproof, simply place a large trash bag inside your backpack and place your belongings inside the trash bag.

Price & Value

For the price, are you getting the function you need? Will the bag last long enough for you and how do you intend to use the bag to justify the price? If your budget is on the light side, be honest. Go for a budget/value pack  now and a pricier, “buy it for life” pack later.

Size, Dimensions and Suitability for Carry On Airline Travel

Does it meet airline carry on size and weight restrictions for the airlines you plan to travel on? Will it be easy to access things in the bag while in an airport or hotel lounge without creating a yard sale?

When examining a backpack’s design ask questions that will help you determine if the features designed into the bag deliver what you need to make travel and daily life easier by storing everything safely and in an organized way and while also making everything accessible.

Does the backpack have the pockets, material, and organization that make your life easier?

Laptop compartment or included padded laptop sleeve?

Quick access cell phone and passport compartment?

Clamshell or alternative style opening that makes full access quick and easy?

Function and Purpose

Whether you’re a hiker, minimalist, digital nomad, business traveler, or other, will the design of the bag, how its carried, and how it stores items make your life easier and less stressful?

Is the bag designed for trail performance: in terms of shoulder straps, weight, durability, and storage?How comfortable will the bag be while hiking for one day? For multiple days?

Is the bag designed for City & Urban Travel in terms of streamlined design, security, and maximization of space use? Will the bag be easy to carry on subways and buses, walking through aisle ways? Is the bag design vulnerable to pickpocketers or slashing?

Does the backpack have the comfort elements you need? Such as padded Shoulder Straps, Padded Hip Belt, suitable Back Panel (softness, breathability)

Fit & comfortable feel specifically for you

Regardless of the reviews, the ultimate deciding factor should be comfort and how the pack fits you. Are the shoulder straps comfortable? Does the hip belt stay comfortable when weighted? Does the back panel feel comfortable on your back and breathe? Fit and comfort are the main reasons for different pack designs for men and women, so make sure you don’t sell yourself short by getting the pack perfect for everyone else and horrible for you.

Quality and Company Reputation

Does the manufacturer provide good customer service support and warranty support after the sale based on customer reviews? Is production quality consistent?

As you discover the common features available in good travel backpacks, note the function you do and don’t need, and select accordingly.

When it comes to travel backpack carry on options, 35 Liters (35L)  to 45 Liters  (45L) is the best bag size for most adventures – big enough to carry everything for trips longer than 1 week, small enough to satisfy the airlines.  FYI, the “L” after the size numbers indicates the liters of capacity  in the backpack

Here are some general guidelines for other backpack sizes:

<30L: Best for daypacks or ultralight travel

30L -> 39L: Weekender or 1-week travel bags (1 month+ for minimalist travel pros) 35L -> ~50L: 1 Week or longer of carry on only travel (perfect for “RTW Travel”) 50L<:  “Summit bags”, multi-climate travel, bringing your own camping gear, and completely moving your life

If you’re traveling through several different climates and carrying your own gear you may need an expandable storage option, to use at times and pack flat during airline travel, to avoid taking a 50L. Keep in mind that for most regions of the world, hiking and camping gear can be rented cheaply and easily for the duration of your trip. Consider the expandable storage options (below) for temporary extra storage.

• (North America) Spirit Airlines Carryon Guidelines : 22 x 18 x 10 inches (56 x 46 x 25 centimeters)
• (Asia) Air Asia Carryon Guidelines: 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 centimeters)
• (Europe) Ryan Air Carryon Guidelines: 21.5 x 16 x 8 inches (55 x 40 x 20 centimeters)
• (South America) Avianca Carryon Guidelines: Can’t exceed 45 inches (115 centimeters) or 22lbs (10 kgs)

How We Picked and Tested These Backpacks

Purchased, used, and tested plenty of bags only recommending the best.

Asking travelers over the past 5 years, in airports, train stations, and coffee shops, what the liked and disliked about the bags they’re wearing.

Analyzed the materials, construction, and technical details of each backpack – dimensions, capacity, pocket placement, materials (Cordura nylon vs. ripstop nylon vs. polyester vs. sailcloth), individual components (zippers, strap padding), features (memory foam, padded waistbelts) and more.

Finally, we used a decade of experience traveling the world, backpacking Europe, Southeast Asia, South America, North America, and the Middle East, trekking Patagonia and the Himalayas, and generally existing as a digital nomad to assess which backpacks would make life easier and more enjoyable – and dismiss the backpacks that “needed work.”

Because each traveler, and their respective travels are different, we narrowed the list to 45+ backpacks total with the 3 to 5 best backpacks for every traveler and respective traveler need.

Full List of the Best Carry On Backpacks – by Categor y

Best 45l carry on backpacks, big enough for world travel and backpacking around the world.

For the past 5 years of traveling the world, I have only traveled with a single, carry-on sized backpack – to lower my cost of travel (avoiding baggage fees) avoid the hassle (no checked bags) for security (keeping my bag close on long bus rides). Having an airplane carry-on-sized backpack allows these benefits, however, the fit can be tight.

A 45L bag (referring to 45 liters of capacity by volume) is the perfect bag for world travel because it is the maximum allowable size giving you every square inch possible to pack, while eliminating the issues of large checked baggage.

This section lists the best 45L carry-on backpacks on the market today.

The Tortuga Outbreaker (45L) 

Best carry on backpack for international travel and exploring cities.

The Tortuga Outbreaker is absolutely one of the best carryon backpack options for urban ventures and my vote for the best carry on backpack for international travel thanks to the meticulous design by travelers, for travelers. The result is a roomy backpack that is as comfortable as can be with tons of space for tech, sheds rain, and still passes for a carry on sized bag. The Tortuga Outbreaker is a ridiculously well thought out pack and has a place for everything.

The Tortuga Outbreaker’s organization, two main compartments with several zippered mesh pockets and padded pockets for electronics.  The separate zippered compartment for a laptop, a tablet, and electronics cables is well thought out. The bag also opens flat for easy packing and unpacking. Comfortable straps, and a water bottle pocket finish off this highly functional bag.

The only concern I have with this is the durability of the touted “X-Pac Waterproof Sailcloth” over 1000D Cordura nylon and 1600D ballistic nylon. The fabric is a combination of 210D nylon and laminates which may suffice for everyday use on airlines but causes me to question durability of the cloth with heavier loads and the abrasion of adventurous travel.

I glean that the Tortuga team implies that you should reasonably expect a 3-year lifespan based on  Tortuga’s official warranty .

From Tortuga’s website:

“Most travelers replace their luggage every few years. Barring a defect as mentioned above, your Tortuga will easily handle all of your adventures during that time…” .

In either case, the bags is impressively designed and well suited for urban adventures, but future reviews will tell if the materials will stand the test of time and adventurous travel.

Best for: Tech saavy travelers, flashpackers, and digital nomads confined to city limits Advantages: Impressively designed for keeping organized without packing cubes due to the plethora of pockets, separated into three compartments and room for a laptop, tablet, and electronics Cons:  Questions on the durability of X-Pac Sailcloth as the primary fabric under hard travel, and the value over 610D Nylon or 1000D Cordura Nylon.  

Bottom Line : Despite the Tortuga Outbreaker’s durability questions (given the price), this is an impressively designed bag that will help keep digital nomads and road warriors organized through the hustle.  If the bag does break down in 3 years, the money spent will be worth the convenience gained

I like what the Tortuga team is doing with their gear but buy this bag understanding that you can only expect a few years out of it or aim for something more durable if that’s your primary concern in a bag.

• Price: $299 (45L); $269 (35L) at Tortugabacks.com
• Size (45L): 22″ x 14″ x 9” | 56 x 35.5 x 23 cm — 5.1lbs | 2.3kg
• Size (35L): 20.3″ x 12.9″ x 8.2” | 51.5 x 33 x 21 cm — 4.6lbs | 2.1kg
• Materials: Waterproof X-Pac Sailcloth (210D nylon with DWR and UV resistant coatings, PET film, 50D polyester taffeta backing)
• Features: Front Loading/Clamshell design; Padded Laptop Compartment for 17″ laptop; Padded, removable hip belt; Lockable zippers; Fleece Lined Electronics Pockets

Click here to read more about the Tortuga Outbreaker in this Tortuga Outbreaker Review

Best tough backpack for long term travel.

You will be hard-pressed to find a more well constructed, more heavy-duty backpacks than the GORUCK line – trust me, I’ve tried.  Among the GORUCK packs, the GORUCK GR3 is the most suited as for long term travel and is one of the best one bag travel backpack options on the market thanks to ample space (45L) and the optional 18L tough bag stuff sack which straps easily to the bottom.

The GORUCK GR3 is inspired military medic packs, upgraded with intuitive yet simplistic design, put together with materials and construction that allow it to carry 450lbs, and tested during 100’s of rucking (aka hiking) competitions GORUCK hosts. Based on specs for design construction and 6 months of travel, I rate this hands down as one of the most durable and best travel backpacks available.

Best for: Heavy use, heavy loads, high abrasion, long term travel Advantages:  Pure durability. Tested to loads of 450lbs+, lifetime guarantee, easily expandable storage to 63L (with GORUCK Tough Compression Sack). Cons: •  Sternum strap sold separately •  Pricey (but you get what you pay for) •  Requires packing cubes to stay organized •  Weight is ~1lb more than your average pack due to heavier materials Price: $545 at GORUCK Size:  22 x 14 x 9 in. | 56 x 35.5 x 23 cm Capacity: 45L | 2746 cu. in. Weight: 5.15lbs (4.59 lbs without hip belt) | 2.3 kg  Materials: 1000D Cordura makes this backpack heavily slash resistant, and great for city travel, “rainproof”; YKK zippers; Mil-spec webbing and buckles

Osprey Porter 46L Travel Pack

• Best for: Backpacking and long term travel
• Streamlined exterior and no loose straps, for easy plane, train, and bus travel
• Compression straps make it easy to pack light, or (slightly) overpack
• Stowaway straps
• Best Price Available: $160 at REI.com
• Weight:  
• Dimensions:
• Also Consider:

Other 45L Carry On Backpacks to consider

• The Topo Design Global Travel Bag 40L: Expands to 45 liter capacity , made of materials and sports a cool retro look
• Peak Design Travel Bag 35L: Expands to 45 liter capacity
• The Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45: A 45L anti-theft backpack with integrated metal security mesh and lockable zippers

Best 40L Carry On Backpacks

Still big enough for world travel, but easier to manage.

45L backpacks are perfect for traveling around the world indefinitely, but for travel of a few weeks or a month, the 40L backpacks on the market may be more suitable.

Whereas 45L carry-on backpacks are as monstrous as travel backpacks can get, they may be perfect for a year of travel around the world but may also be too large for some people.

If your travels tend to be in more pleasurable and warm climates, meaning you’ll pack fewer clothes, or primarily in the city, which requires no boots and outdoor trekking gear, a 40L backpack may be the sweet spot of just large enough but not too large.

Additionally, if you plan to take a carry-on backpack and a small duffle or handbag , checked or taken onto the plane as a personal item, the 40L backpack category may have some of the best options for you.

• Advantages:
• Best Price Available: $399 at Nomatic online

Also check out the entire Nomatic Navigator series , consisting of day packs, sling bags, “standard luggage” and more

• Water resistant outer material
• Laptop protection pocket and sleeve, TSA ready
• Dedicated shoe pocket
• Quickly shifts to a duffle bag style, handbag carry without stowing straps

• Best Price Available: $289.99 at Nomatic.com
• Capacity: 40L
• Weight:  3.42 lbs
• Dimensions: 9″ x 21″ x 14″
• Design and Pockets: Laptop pocket – 16″ x 10.5″ x 1.5″
• Warranty: Nomatic Lifetime Warranty
• Also available in a 20L backpack expandable to 30L

A Heavy Duty Backpack Perfect for Shorter Term Travel – 1 week to 1 month or single climate travel and ready for adventure

The GORUCK GR2 retains the same rugged and tested DNA of the GR3, but helps you stay better organized, thanks to more standard pockets and the two compartment setup.  The smaller size (34L & 40L) make it better than the GR3 for shorter travel.

The GR2 does have 5L or 11 less space than the GR3, depending on the variant you get, thus I only recommend it for travels shorter than 1 month and in a single season/climate. A benefit of the GR2 over the GR3 is with the smaller size, it is easier to get away with the GR2 as an everyday use pack. From my experience with this pack, it is excellent for its intended purposes of heavy use and short trips. If that’s what you’re after, the GORUCK GR2 is an excellent option.

• Best for: Heavy use, heavy loads, daily use, shorter trips, and anyone looking for “buy it for life” gear Advantages: Bombproof, durable construction and a significant lifetime guarantee Cons: •  Price…but once again, you get what you pay for •  Weight, approximately 1lb heavier than the average carryon bag and .5lbs heavier than the average carry on travel backpack Price: $495 at GORUCK Size (40L Model): 22 x 12.5 x 9 in. | 56 x 32 x 23 cm Size (34L Model):   20.5 x 12.5 x 9 in. | 56 x 32 x 23 cm   Capacity: 40L Model |2440 cu. in & 34L model | 2074 cu. in. Weight: 4.75lbs  | 2.2 kg Materials: 1000D Cordura makes this backpack heavily slash resistant, and great for city travel, “rainproof”, and abrasion resistant; YKK zippers; Mil-spec webbing and buckles

Thule Landmark 40L Travel Backpack

Very similar to the REI Ruckpack 40

• Best for: Medium to long term travelers (1 month+)
• Perfect balance between a “travel backpack” and a trekking/hiking backpack
• Clamshell opening design makes everything available duffle bag style, perfect to pair with packing cubes
• Dedicated and protected laptop pocket
• Lid pocket with lockable zippers
• Padded, breathable back panel
• Stowable shoulder straps
• Stowable water bottle pocket
• Best Price Available: $199.95 at Backcountry.com or Amazon.com
• Capacity: 40L (2441cu in)
• Weight:  3lb 3oz
• Dimensions: 9.8 x 13 x 21.5in
• Materials: 420D polyester dobby, 600D polyester
• Pockets and design : 1 zippered top, 1 zippered laptop/tablet sleeve (15-inch), 1 CashStash compartment, internal mesh storage, 1 zippered side, 1 side bottle
• Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty through Thule
• Also Consider: REI Ruckpack 40

Topo Design Global Travel Bag (40L), Expandable to 45L

• Retro look and colorful designs
• Made of tough, high quality material assures you this pack will last
• 40 liter capacity expands to 45L
• Divided internal panel design
• Brightly colored internal cloth make finding items easy in darker places
• 3 Way Carry (traditional backpack, shoulder bag, handbag)
• Boxy design pairs well with packing cubes and makes every inch of space available
• Back panel laptop pocket fits up to a 15″ laptop
• Top and side carry handles
• Removable shoulder straps
• Best Price Available: $229 at REI.com or $229 at TopoDesigns.com** with an optional 15% discount
• Capacity: 40 L / 2441 cu. in., expandable to 45L
• Dimensions: 14″ x 22.5″ x 7.5″
• Materials: 1000D recycled nylon, 400D recycled nylon, 210D recycled nylon, 1680D recycled ballistic nylon, large heavy duty YKK zippers
• Design and Pockets: Expandable and stowaway water bottle pockets

GORUCK Rucker – Long Range (39L)

A seriously tough backpack with additional features to double as a weight backpack for workouts and rucking.

• Best for: Hard users who want a backpack that carries serious weight and can double for workouts
• Most durable ~40L bag on this list
• Stress points tested to 400lbs+
• Handles on top, bottom, and side intended for workouts but very useful for travel
• Open flat design
• Divider and double wrap around zipper create 2 separate “shelves”
• No Laptop pocket
• Best Price Available: $255 at GORUCK.com with lifetime warranty

Budget Travel Backpack: One of the best travel packs for Europe and urban wandering

On the REI Ruckpack 40, REI took clear design cues and hiking performance from the REI Trail 40, then cleaned up the exterior to make it more urban travel focused. This urban-focused bag is one of the best travel packs for Europe for those on a budget. Functional, durable, simple, and comfortable.

Zip away pockets make moving through the cities without being pickpocketed easier. Stowaway shoulder straps and hip belt, hidden at will by the zip up back panel, make for easy bag checking and side/top handles make it easy to move while straps are stowed. Finally, the REI DNA makes for frame/back support and straps design that will stay comfortable throughout the hiking and trekking adventures that happen between city experiences.

Best for: New travelers or travelers on a budget that will hike as much as they’ll adventure by plane, bus, rail, or however the trail happens Price: $140 at REI Online Size: 24 x 13 x 10 in. | 61 x 33 x 25.5 cm.  Capacity: 40 Liters |2,440 Cubic Inches Weight: 4lbs 3 oz | 1.9 kg Materials: 210 Denier Ripstop Nylon and YKK zippers Warranty: 1 year unlimited warranty through REI Features:  Side zip access to water bladder pocket/ laptop pocket that fits a 15″ laptop

Checkout our Full Review of the REI Ruckpack 40

Other 40l carry-on travel packs to consider.

• Gregory Tribute Women’s 40L Travel Pack
• Gregory Tetrad Men’s 40 Travel Pack

For weekenders or one-month adventures in a single climate, as long as you pack efficiently you can’t go wrong with a 35L backpack.

Pack travel friendly clothes that require minimal washing, use packing cubes , and get a functional toiletry bag, and this relatively tiny setup will have everything you need while making your life very easy.

Minaal Carry-on 2.0 Bag (35L)

The Minaal Carry on 2.0 Bag is great option, and more suited to the crowd that values attention to detail.

Minaal clearly pays attention to small details, which shows in the features like a magnetic clipping system for the top shoulder harness support straps, a clip in “holster” for the chest strap, and even etching the bag’s dimensions on the shoulder strap to show to over zealous airport security (not sure that will suffice though…the New Zealand TSA must be quite a bit different than US TSA).

Beyond the tiny details, the bag structure is similar to the other urban carry options: a flat opening pack made of durable material with mesh and covered pockets on the inside front panel. The question is if the additional price is worth those tiny details for you .

Best for: Minimalist travelers and digital nomads moving through urban areas Advantages: The attention to the very  small details Cons: • A bit on the small side making it better for trips of a week or less, but minimalists may do just fine traveling for longer than a week • Heavy design focus on small details that add very small vale to the travel experience Price: $299 Dimensions: 55cm x 35cm x 20cm | 21.6in x 13.7in x 7.8in Capacity: ~35L | ~2135 cu in. Weight: 3.1lbs | 1.4kg Materials: A combination of 600D and 1000D Nylon, YKK zippers Warranty: Lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects (+90 day trial period) Notable Features : Chest strap “holster”, embossed bag dimensions on shoulder strap, roll away & zippered cover to stow shoulder straps and waist belt (although reported to annoyingly press into the users shoulders), laptop and tablet strapping system that holds your devices in place and saves space, also suspending your devices to prevent damage when the bag is dropped, document pocket and passport pocket, 2 Small “quick access” pockets on top of the pack and two expanding pockets along the back panel of the main pack

Aer Travel Pack 2 (33L) and Aer Travel Pack 3 (35L)- Small One Bag for Urban Terrain

A near perfect urban travel backpack.

The Aer Travel Pack 2 and 3 are fairly simple carry on sized urban travel backpack made of extremely ballistic nylon, that make it something you can for short travels (~1 week) and use for a long time to come.

The Aer Travel Pack 2’s smaller than average capacity (~33L) may limit it to the corporate traveler, weekend traveler, and short trippers. If you travel for longer than a week, consider something larger, but for 1 week or less (or are a minimalist traveler) this is a great carry on backpack option.

Best for: Weekend travel, short trips, minimalist urban travelers Advantage: Constructed of very durable materials with a clean aesthetic Cons: A bit on the small side at 33L, limiting it to shorter (~1 week) trips. Fairly simple design that could deliver more function for the price tag . Simple, main compartment + front panel/pocket organization differs little from normal laptop backpacks for much cheaper Price: $220 Size: 21.5 x 13.5 x 8.5 | 55 x 34  x 22 cm Weight: 3.7lbs | 1.7kg Capacity: 33 liters | 2014 cu. in. Materials: 1680 Denier Cordura® ballistic nylon exterior, YKK zippers, Duraflex® plastic hardware

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack

• Best for: Weekenders to month long backpacking adventures in urban areas and a single climate
• Tough outer materials, TPU coated for water resistance
• Colorful, eye catching fabric
• Side access laptop pocket
• Lashing straps
• 3 Way Carry: Backpack, handbag, shoulder bag
• Stowable shoulder straps and hip belt
• Rain cover included

• Best Price Available: $200 direct from Cotopaxi or $200 at REI.com
• Capacity: 35L (2136cu in)
• Weight:  4lb 10oz (2.1kg)
• Dimensions: 20 x 12 x 8in (51 x 30 x 20cm)
• Open flat, clamshell design
• Right side opens into a large, mesh, zippered compartment
• Left side is divided into mesh zippered compartments
• Materials: TPU Coated 1000D polyester and 860 denier ballistic nylon

Peak Design Travel Bag (35L expandable to 45 liters)

• Best for: Weekend travel to month long travel adventures
• Compact enough for
• Sturdy handles on top, bottom, and sides
• Plenty of sturdy lashing points
• Great quality materials and construction will last a lifetime
• Best Price Available: $299.95 at PeakDesign.com
• Capacity: Compressed: 30L, Expanded: 45L
• Weight:  4.5 lb / 2.05 kg
• Dimensions: 22″ x 13″ x 11″
• Materials: Weatherproof 400 denier recycled nylon canvas exterior with durable water resistant coating, 900 denier waterproof bottom
• Warranty: No hassle lifetime warranty

Best 30L and Smaller Carry On Backpacks

Small carry on travel backpacks – big enough for weekend trips and small enough to to double as a daypack.

30L Carry On Backpacks (and smaller) are in a very functional space of being the perfect sized weekend bag that can be emptied and double as a useful daypack.

30L travel bags are also great for long term travel and nomading when paired with a duffle bag that doubles as a backpack .

For digital nomads and long term travelers that make a base in one city for months at a time and travel for shorter periods (a weekend to a week) the duffle bag makes the perfect “leave behind bag” while the 30L travel pack serves as a daypack, the all important carry-on bag, and the travel bag for weekend adventures.

These are the best travel friendly 30L carry-on backpacks.

Also Consider

• Tom Bihn Synik 30 Daypack and Travel Pack

Best Carry On Travel Backpacks for Women

Backpacks specifically designed to be more comfortable for women

In the months I’ve been on the road, I have to admit…I’ve noticed women make up most of the backpackers over the age of 25 that I’ve met. Whether they’re leaving for a week, a month, or on sabbatical, they’re doing their thing and I think that’s awesome! In an attempt to help out my fellow travelers (of the female persuasion), I’ve kept notes on the travel backpacks for women I’ve seen satisfied female travelers wearing abroad. The backpacks below are the ladies’ packs I keep seeing over and over with great reviews.

What makes women’s packs different from men’s packs? Why does it matter?

Curved shoulder straps follow the contours of the chest, and a shorter length and longer hip belt transfer the load from the shoulders to the hips more effectively than unisex backpacks

The structural build of the average male vs. the average female is very different, especially when we look at shoulder width, torso length, hip width/circumference, and the ratios of all these bits and pieces. As a result unisex (i.e., standard) packs can be uncomfortable for many women, especially if they’ve been designed and tested on only men. The same way a one size fits all pack is usually not the best for every hiker, the best unisex backpacks usually aren’t great for women.  The best travel backpacks for women (as reported by women) take into account these subtle differences in body makeup.

Now, in case the title of this site doesn’t make it clear, I am not a woman (and I don’t know the struggle) so these packs are recommended based on observations, research, reviews, and conversations. Ladies, if you have a great pack you can recommend specifically for women (or disagree with the packs on this list) please let me know at [email protected] . Thanks!

REI Trail 40 Pack – Women’s

Note on the Women’s REI Trail 40 Pack Reviews: The Women’s Trail 40 pack on the REI was updated and isn’t enjoying great reviews in its initial days, although the previous version that had great reviews was and is essentially the same pack. I’ll keep an eye on this and update accordingly but I have faith that users will appreciate the bag they get for the price with the Women’s Trail 40.

Best for: Just like the original nisex pack, this pack is a perfectly sized carry on that wears comfortably and is well suited for hiking and trekking. I took this pack (in the unisex version) from Galapagos to Everest and loved it. You’ll be hard pressed to find a better backpack for the price Advantages: The amazing price, and how well the backpack performs hiking and trekking Cons: Could use more horizontal compression straps Price: $119 at REI Online Capacity: 40 liters | 2,441 cubic inches Dimensions: Size (Small): 20.25 x 13.125 x 10.5 inches Size (Medium): 21.6 x 13 x 10.5 inches Weight: 2 lbs. 15 oz. | 1.3 kg.

View the REI Trail 40 Review for more info

REI Flash 45 Women’s Pack (Hiking + Trekking)

Just like the Men’s REI Flash 45, the REI Flash 45 Women’s pack is a true trekking and hiking backpack but aimed at the ultralight hiking and camping crowd, so it performs well while keeping weight light.

The benefit of the women’s Flash pack over the men’s is the shorter length of 25”, meaning it will be easier to squeeze by the all too common 22” length restriction on Southeast Asia and European budget airlines. You can get around this restriction by under packing or offloading some gear into your daypack “personal item” to make that last 3 inches, but know about this potential hassle going in. If you can handle that, you’ll get a carryon sized backpack that is completely designed for trekking and multi-day backcountry adventures. Pair this with the Flash 22 compressible daypack and you’re set for all of your adventures

Best for: Female Trekkers and hikers Advantages: A lightweight pack designed for trekking and hiking that is much more affordable than the competition, with padded and curved straps and a shorter torso to accommodate most female frames Cons: • No dedicated, padded laptop space • Exceeds the strictest Southeast Asian and European budget airlines by 3 inches (which can be made up for by under-packing) Price: $149 at REI Online Weight : 2lbs 12oz | 1.25 kg. Capacity (Sm): 45 | 2,746 cu. In. Capacity (Med): 47 | 2,868 cu. in Size: 25 x 13 x 8 inches | 63.5 x 33 x 20.5 cm Materials: 420 denier ripstop nylon and YKK zippers Comparison: Over the Women’s REI Trail 40 , you get a beefier shoulder strap and waist belt system with the REI Flash 45 Women’s , 5 additional liters, and tougher material (420D nylon instead of the 210D nylon used on the Trail 40)

The Osprey Fairview 40 – Great All Around Women’s Backpack

The well-reviewed and lady friendly version of the Osprey Farpoint 40

Best for: Mostly urban travel with the occasional jaunt beyond city limits. Great for new backpackers and small budgets Advantages:  Cost and versatility Price: $160 at REI Online Materials: 210-denier ripstop nylon/600-denier packcloth Dimensions: 21 x 14 x 9 in. | 53.5 x 35.5 x 23 cm. Weight : 3 lbs. 2 oz. | 1.4 kg Capacity: S/M: 40 liters | 2,441 cubic inches Capacity: XS/S: 38 liters | 2,319 cubic inches

The REI Women’s Ruckpack 40

Great City Travel Option for Newbie Ladies and Small Budgets

The lady friendly version of the Men’s REI Ruckpack 40. This pack’s length does exceed most airline carry on size restrictions by 2”, but you can compensate for this by not over packing the top portion of the pack…so if you get this one, ensure to pack your self-control before packing anything else (and overloading your pack).

What makes this version different than the fella’s version? Shaped harness straps that curve differently around the chest. Shortened torso length. Longer hip straps to accommodate the extra curves (that we love so much)

Best for: Urban travel with light adventuring beyond city limits. Great for new travelers and small budgets Advantages: Price and value. REI delivers amazing packs for the price and the ladies are loving this one Cons: 2 inches too large for some carry on travel, but reportedly a great travel rucksack for the price nonetheless Price: $140 at REI Online Weight/size Weight: 4 lbs 3 oz | 1.9 kg Size: 24x13x10 inches | 61 x 33 x 25.5

Checkout our  Full Review of the REI Ruckpack 40

The perfect backpack for traveling abroad

The ladies’ version of the Osprey Farpoint 55, so this is essentially the Fairview 40 with a zip off daypack included. Impressively reviewed as reliable, convenient for airline travel, and versatile.

Best for: Mostly urban travel with the occasional jaunt beyond city limits. Great for new backpackers and small budgets and travelers that want a daypack included Cons: The Packs length exceeds carry on restrictions for most airlines by 3 inches when fully loaded, so be ready to shift items in your pack if called out by the gate agent Advantages:  Cost and versatility make it suitable for most travelers Price: $180 at REI Online Materials: 210-denier ripstop nylon/600-denier packcloth Dimensions: 25 x 13 x 12 inches Weight: 3 lbs. 13 oz. Capacity S/M: 55 liters | 3,356 cubic inches Capacity XS/S: 52 liters | 3,173 cubic inches

Women’s Kelty Redwing 36 (36L) and 50 (50L)

A tired, true, and legendary backpack in the outdoorsy community that isn’t perfect, but is reputed for being roomy, tough, and comfy. Available at a great price ($119 and $149)

• Best for: Backpacking and outdoorsy adventures and tough enough to last a lifetime
• Best Price Available for the Kelty Redwing 36L: $119 at Kelty.com
• Best Price Available for the Kelty Redwing 50L: $149 at Kelty.com
• Capacity: 36 liters and 50 liters respectively
• Dimensions and Weight- 36L: 22 x 17 x 10 in / 55.87 x 43.18 x 24.40 cm | 2 lbs 9 oz / 1.16 kg
• Dimensions and Weight – 50L: 27 x 18 x 10 in, 3 lbs 15 oz / 1.79 kg
• Materials: Poly 420D Small Back Stafford
• Warranty: Kelty lifetime warranty

Durable & Heavy Duty Backpacks Fit for Carry on Travel

Built to handle heavy abuse, heavy abrasion, and heavy loads. Designed to last through the worst but still serve well for adventurous travelers that want a bag that will last for life

When you want a travel backpack that will last you for life, durability is your main concern and you need a heavy duty backpack for your travels. I admit, this is the category I love most as I usually abuse my backpacks. I also believe each time a backpack survives a “risky encounter”, it retains a bit of luck. Needless to say, my Spec Ops T.H.E. and my GORUCK GR3 are the “luckiest” packs I own.

When shopping for a durable backpack, look for :

• High denier Nylon materials, ideally coated for weatherproofing. I settle for nothing less than 1000D Cordura. • Military-grade straps and buckles • Reinforced and heavily stitched straps, handles, and stress points to support heavy loads and abuse • A track record of good reviews and lots of abuse in varied environments

Spec Ops T.H.E Backpackpack

Budget Durable Travel Backpack

The Spec Ops brand T.H.E. (“Tactical Hold Everything”) backpacks are very durable, heavy duty backpacks at much better prices than you’ll find on GORUCK’s site, making them a great GORUCK GR3 Alternative.

I bought my Spec Ops T.H.E. 13 years ago and took it to war 3 times…and it did just fine. If the GORUCK line is too pricey and you don’t mind the “tacti-cool” look of MOLLE webbing consider this option with the optional removable back panel …or a homemade kydex frame sheet. I’ve run with 25lbs – 45lbs in this bag, hiked and rock climbed plenty with it, taken several trips with it in the last decade and there is not so much as a single thread loose.

Best for: Durability, heavy loads, lots of potential abrasion abuse Advantages: Though it lacks the marketing, arguably as bombproof as the GORUCK series Cons: •  Not fully front loading design •  Will require packing cubes for organization •  Back Panel sold separately (~$30) •  No padded laptop space Price: ~$180 on Amazon Size: 19 x 13 x 12 in | 48 x 33 x 30.5 cm Weight: 3.5lbs| 1.6kg Capacity: 42L | 2550 Cu Inches Materials: 1000D Cordura Nylon, Military grade webbing and buckles, #10 YKK zippers Warranty: Full warranty on workmanship and materials, Spec-ops will prepay shipping to return the item and repair/replace for free. If the gear damage is your fault and you have a great story, Spec-ops will likely repair/replace for free Also Consider: The 5.11 Rush 24 or Rush 72

The ALICE Pack

An Old School Military Rucksack

A reliable, time tested budget option for those that want durable, hiking ready, heavy duty backpacks with old school swag. ALICE isn’t perfect, but she’ll get everything you need done just fine. You can buy one new online or get a “seasoned” one from any military surplus store.

For near perfection, upgrade the shoulder straps to something more substantial and padded and purchase a frame for the pack – or build one out of 1/2″ PVC based on online tutorials. For less than $50 you can have an extremely durable pack with the function to travel well anywhere and is light enough to impress any ultralight traveler.

Another option is to aim for many of the updated versions of this pack, made with 1000D Cordura nylon in the US to durability standards that rival GORUCK. Spec Ops Brand was the front runner, but many have popped up in their place.

Note: If you do go the route of beloved “ALICE”, eBay or your local surplus store are your best bet for getting a genuine, military issue ALICE pack for cheap. Avoid Rothco and Fox gear, as these are replicas and not built to military specifications. Retired, GI backpacks can be found for ~$20-$50 at your local surplus store or on ebay. You’ll have to add your own straps from there, and I recommend Blackhawk, Tactical Tailor, or any other reputable brand for great shoulder straps. At this point, you’ll have a simple, durable backpack for ~$75. If you want to step it up for serious hiking, pickup a used ruckpack frame for the ALICE pack and you will have the most reliable backpack setup possible for under $100. Also, check eBay for used versions of the Spec Ops Brand Recon Ultra backpack for a reliable, updated option (these packs have been discontinued but provide the same function in an updated package for cheap).

My experience: This was my first true “one bag” for a vacation to Thailand, Indonesia, and Japan over a month. For this kind of single climate travel, the ALICE pack is perfect Best for: Travelers looking for a tough budget friendly pack, hard users, minimalists, and anyone who appreciates an old school feel Advantages: Well tested, extremely durable yet functional, cheap Design: Functional via simplicity, with three easily accessed external pockets, one main storage area, a document pouch in the lid, and one pouch in the main compartment Cons: To get the best use out of this bag, making a homemade back support from PVC is optimal, but not necessary Price: ~$50-$75 for the whole package Weight/size: ~2lbs Capacity: 2,285 cu.in | 37.5 liters Materials: Unicorn leather Warranty: None. But this kind of gear doesn’t need one Also Consider •  Greenroom123 Rainmaker: Something more modern on the cheap side •  RedOxx C-Ruck

Best Weatherproof Carry on Backpack

If you plan to travel somewhere with plenty of rain and wet (like a Southeast Asian country during its monsoon season) plan for wet in order to keep your gear dry. Now, remember that aside from a roll top dry bag , such as those design for SCUBA gear, no bag will keep your gear dry under a heavy downpour. If you’re expecting lots of rain or wet boat rides, get a heavy duty trash bag, put that bag inside your backpack, and put your gear inside that.

Whether freediving through the Philippines and traveling rough seas, or getting caught in rainstorms in Bali or Patagonia, that trick (the trash bag) has been the #1 way to keep things dry.

For every other “slightly wet” situation, wherein you want weather resistance, these three bags are your best options.

• Tortuga Outbreaker
• Nomatic Navigator Travel Bag
• Patagonia MLC Black Hole (TPU Outer Version)

Best Minimalist Construction Carry On Backpacks

Most times, less is more – and this is where minimalist bags come in. Getting a bag that is just a well-stitched bit of high quality, durable, weather-resistant material, and throw in some packing cubes for organization can be an excellent, versatile option.

These are the best minimalist carry on backpacks…

The Patagonia Black Hole MLC Brief Case 45L  

This flat folding pack is minimalist, full of pockets for organizing, is made of a fully waterproof  material, and is a fraction of the Outbreaker’s pricetag ( $180 at REI Online with membership + free shipping)

This carryon lacks structure and internal support of the other urban travel carry on backpacks, but is still great for carry on travel. A friend did Southeast Asia with it for 6 months and loved it

Best Anti-theft Backpack

Security is one of the biggest concerns of new solo travelers. Though, to be honest, there is no 100% deterrent for theft aside from staying aware and keeping an eye on your belongings, having a good backpack with slash-resistant fabrics, lockable zippers, lashing points, and other pickpocket deterrents can deliver the peace of mind that will allow you to freely enjoy your travels.

This section delivers the best theft-resistant carry on backpacks for travelers.

Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45 ECONYL Anti-Theft Carry-On Travel Pack (45L) and EXP35 (35L)

This high quality bag takes a normal, roomy, functional carry on and builds in security and anti-theft functions to allow you to travel without worry of pickpockets and even leave your bag strapped to a pole or static point.

The combination of locking zippers that are puncture proof and an integrated cut resistant wire mesh throughout the backpack make this a full sized carry on that will keep your belongings and valuables safe. Last, an integrated metal cable allows you to lash this bag securely to a static point.

Available in 35L and 45L

• Best for: Travelers heavily concerned with theft, or your average nomad carrying thousands of dollars of valuables on their back.
• Regenerated nylon made from recycled fishnets
• Slash resistant metal mesh throughout the fabric of the bag
• Locking zipper system with puncture resistant zippers
• Integrated security cable allows locking to a chair, pole, or table
• 2 way carry – as a backpack or briefcase style handbag
• Padded laptop sleeve fits up to a 16″ laptop
• Best Price Available: $239 with free shipping
• Capacity: 45 L / 2746 in3
• Weight:  3 lb 13 oz / 1.73 kg
• Dimensions: 21.7 x 13.8 x 8.7 in / 55 x 35 x 22 cm
• Materials: Water resistant 400 denier recycled nylon, made from recycled fish nets, with integrated wire security mesh

Pacsafe Venture Safe X40 Plus (40L)

• Best Price Available:

Well-padded and designed shoulder straps, waist belt, and back panel make it easier to hike for long periods with these packs while pockets are designed to make it easier to access items frequently used on the trail 

For the traveler that will arrive by plane but inevitably make their way into the outdoors, a travel and trekking ready backpack is a must.

When aiming for a backpack with travel + trekking prowess, look for the following:

• Well-padded and designed shoulder straps a waist belt
• Weather and abrasion resistant fabrics and thoughtful, hiking conscious construction
• External pockets that make storing and accessing essentials while hiking (e.g., water, snacks, camera, phone) quick and easy
• Proven reputation (of the bag and the manufacturer) with travelers and backpackers – good assurance that the bag will perform well over time

The REI Trail 40

One of the most functional and comfortable packs I’ve owned, and a great value for the price.

I tested this bag over 2 years which included hiking to Everest base camp solo, riding the Ho Chi Minh trail by motorbike, countless treks and wandering through 9 countries by plane, train, bus, and boat. For adventurous first time travelers, I absolutely recommend this bag.

Best for: Travelers that plan to hike and trek Advantages: A trekking and hiking ready pack that works equally well as a carryon and is perfect for beginners in performance and price. Cons:  • No dedicated, padded laptop space • Shoulder straps are comfortable but feel like the weakest point on the pack. If carrying heavier loads (45lbs+) expect a ~2 year lifespan, conservatively estimating. Price: $129 at REI Online Weight: 3 lbs Size (Medium): 21.5 x 13 x 10 in. | 54.5 x 33 x 25.5  Size (Large) 22.5 x 13 x 10 inches| 57 x 33 x 25.5   Materials: 210 denier nylon and YKK zippers

Also Consider: the REI Ruckpack 40 if your adventures are more urban and involve more airline travel than overland.  Checkout our Review of the REI Ruckpack 40 for more info

View the  REI Trail 40 Review  for more info

Technically too large to be a carry-on backpack but will fit as a carry on, and is a great minimalist trekking and hiking bag

A true trekking and hiking backpack with a lightweight yet functional design aimed at the ultralight hiking and camping crowd. This pack honestly does not meet carry on regulations, as its 30″ height exceeds the 22″ limit however, you may be able to slip by security by cranking down the lid and sneaking by the airline check stand. With the lid removed or empty, the bag only exceeds carry on restrictions by an inch, and definitely fits easily in overhead compartments. If you want a compact, minimalist, cheap trekking bag, the REI Flash 55 is a great option

This pack’s frame, shoulder and hip padding, and ultra-light hiking design make it a comfortable and useful bag on and off the trail, especially for the price. Plus, with 55 liters of capacity, you’ll be able to pack an entire year’s worth of travel gear in this single bag.

This pack’s length (30” for the unisex medium and 29” for the small) is a bit longer than the 22” average length restriction for budget airlines in Southeast Asia and Europe. You can get around this by under packing or offloading some gear into your daypack “personal item”, but know about this potential hassle going in. If you can handle that, you’ll get a carryon sized backpack that is completely designed for trekking and multi-day backcountry adventures. Pair this with the Flash 22 compressible daypack and you’re set for all of your adventures

From REI’s website: “Most airlines require a piece of carry-on luggage to be no bigger than 45 linear inches (L + W + H) to meet carry-on size restrictions. The medium [REI Flash 45] is 38 linear inches and the large is 49 linear inches, so please check with your airline ahead of time.”

Best for: Trekkers and hikers Advantages:  A lightweight pack designed for trekking and hiking that is much more affordable than the competition Cons: – No dedicated, padded laptop space – Length of the REI Flash 45 Pack when fully packed is technically longer than most budget airline restrictions by 4” on the medium and 5” on the large, but you get great on trail performance in return Price: $199 at REI Online Weight: 2lbs 14oz Size (Medium): 26 x 13 x 9 inches Size Large: 27 x 13 x inches Materials: 420 denier nylon and YKK zippers Comparison: Over the REI Trail 40 , you get a beefier shoulder strap and waist belt system, 5 additional liters, and tougher material (420D nylon instead of the 210D nylon used on the Trail 40)

Also Consider: “Almost” Carry On Backpacks

These 40L trekking backpacks are some of the best, however, 1 to 2 inches longer than the 22″ height maximum for most airlines. Aiming to take these packs as carry-on may not work. However, if you’re looking for a compact, minimalist trekking backpack – to make bus rides, train rides, and even some train rides easier, these may be great options.

Budget & Starter Carry on Backpacks for Travel

If you will be “backpacking Europe” for the first time or know that your adventures from day to day will be confined to the city limits, consider these budget bags for urban adventures.

Urban travel carry on backpacks generally have a durable, abrasion resistant outer material sturdy enough to handle the occasional abuse of checked baggage and being thrown under buses (the storage, not under the wheels). Travel within city limits will be more enjoyable, than with trekking backpacks,  thanks to  the streamlined profile (so that you don’t bump everyone and everything while walking) and the ease of wearing your luggage instead of dragging it (over rolling carry ons).

The shoulder straps and waist belt usually tuck away making for a smooth exterior without straps to snag on conveyor belts, in the occasional adventures of checked baggage. 

Remember that urban travel carry on backpacks are designed to make travel (planes, trains, and buses) easier but the shoulder straps and overall design aren’t meant to be worn all day. Bring a packable day pack that fits inside your carry on luggage, like the REI flash 22 compressible daypack so that your city exploration isn’t limited by what you can carry in your hands.

So, if you’re planning on your first jaunt to a foreign city, consider these option.

Osprey Farpoint 40 (Men’s) ($160)

The Osprey Farpoint 40 has to be the backpack that I come across dmost uring my travels. Whether in the US, Asia, or Europe, you will find plenty of people with this bag, and for good reason.

The size is just right for trips less than 3 months and through a single climate. The build is durable and the bag stays comfortable even on long walks. Lastly, the cost is great considering what you get.

Even today, while writing this article (in Albania), a Canadian guy stopped in front of me with the Osprey Farpoint 40 strapped to the back of his bicycle. It was his first backpacking trip but he got jealous of everyone with the freedom to ride the Balkan coast when and where they chose, so he bought a bike and rode. When I asked him about his bag, he replied, “I love it, it’s been great, and it’s just the perfect size. I wouldn’t have been able to bicycle with it if it was any bigger, so I’m glad I chose this pack.”

Morals of the story: The Osprey Farpoint 40 is a reliable starter bag, and over packing will limit your adventures, so stick to a carryon and consider the Osprey Farpoint 40 as your first bag.

Best for: Urban backpacking with a touch of adventuring beyond the city limits Differentiator: Great price and value, durable, versatile fit and comfortable support system makes it appropriate for most beginners and a great starter pack Cons: You’ll look like 25% of the other backpackers you come across…but in the world of travel, that’s not necessarily a bad thing… Price: $160 at REI Online Weight: 3 lbs. 2.7 oz. Dimensions: Size (M/L): 21 x 14 x 9 inches | 53.5 x 35.5 x 23 cm Size (S/M): 20 x 14 x 8 inches | 51 x 35.5 x 20.5 cm Capacity (M/L): 40 liters | 2,441 cubic inches Capacity (S/M): 38 liters | 2,319 cubic inches Materials: 210 denier nylon, 610 denier pack cloth Warranty: 1 year warranty when purchased through REI (REI Warranty)

For more info checkout our Osprey Farpoint 40 Review

A great all around travel backpack. This bag is essentially the Osprey Farpoint 40 with a convenient zip-off daypack. I have seen the Osprey Farpoint 55 more times on the road than I can count. Partly due to great price (often on sale) and partly due to reliability, as most people have taken it on several trips over the years.

Every time I ask for a traveler’s opinion on their experience with this bag, usually the bag is the traveler’s first travel pack and they still love it. 

Best for: New travelers in need of an all-around performing backpack; those who want a pack/daypack combo Differentiator: Zip off daypack included simplifies travel Cons: Not front loading or fold flat design and a few inches longer than most airline carry on limits Price: $180 at REI, but frequently on discount Size: 25 x 13 x 12 in. | 63.5 x 33 x 30.5 cm. Weight: 3 lbs. 14 oz. | 1.8 kg. Capacity: 55L / 3,356 cubic inches (including daypack capacity) Variants    S/M: 53L (15-19 inch torso)    M/L: 55L (18-22 inch torso) Materials: 210-denier ripstop nylon Warranty: “All Mighty Warranty” – Fix or replace for life, from Osprey

Best Cheap Carry On Backpacks Under $150

When you’re just getting started traveling, most travelers honestly don’t know what they need in a bag. For that reason, dropping $300-$500 on a travel backpack doesn’t make sense…yet.

For another crowd, money may be scarce – whether you’re a gap year student or saving for other things, money may be limited. In both cases, I absolutely advocate experiences (and travel) over material possessions, so spend more money on your trip and less money on your gear. If buying a pricier backpack will compromise a portion of your trip, or prevent you from getting the ticket to the destination that you really want to go to, then get the cheaper backpack now and make those memories. 

In the meantime, consider any one of these great quality backpacks for budget friendly prices.

Standard Luggage Co. – Standard’s Carry on Backpack, 35L-45L

Standard Luggage Co.’s Standard Carry on Backpack is a great carry on backpack option for those that want to avoid checking baggage, will be based mostly in cities, will use a different bag for their day hikes, and don’t want to spend ~$300+ on a backpack.

The Standard Carry on Backpack is made of high quality, durable materials (1600D ballistic nylon), incorporates a few good internal pockets, a laptop pocket for up to a 15” device, and has a shoulder harness system that will get you through your travels comfortably. Just don’t plan to use this as your day bag because the shoulder strap system isn’t built well enough for serious hiking.

Standard’s Carry on Backpack is a well-built yet simple carry on backpack at a reasonable price. The carry on is 35L but unzips and expands to 45L. Get Standard Luggage Co.’s Hanging Packing Cubes , which fit the backpack perfectly, along with Standard’s packing cube that doubles as an 8L backpack , or pick up some reliable nylon packing cubes on Amazon to keep the bag in order.

Best for: Ideal for urban travelers on a budget Advantage: A durable carry on backpack intended for urban travels at a reasonable price Cons : Lacks the organization of the Aer, Minaal, and Tortuga packs, but you can use the money saved to get packing cubes Price: $179 on Standard Luggage; $189 on Amazon Dimensions: 21.5 x 13.5 x 7.5 in when zipped and 21.5 x 13.5 x 9.5 when expanded Capacity (zipped) : 35 Liters | 2135 cu in. zipped Capacity (unzipped): 45 Liters | 2746 cu in. unzipped Weight: 3.7lbs | 1.7kg Materials: 1600D Ballistic Nylon Warranty: Lifetime warranty for the original owner and excludes damage caused by “negligence, extreme use, improper care, accidents, or the natural breakdown of materials over time” Perks: Free shipping, made in Canada

A simple, straight forward, budget friendly backpack. Don’t expect all of the bells and whistles of other bags, or for this bag to last forever. However, you’ll be hard pressed to find a more suitable “urban travel backpack” for the price.

• Best for: Urban travel
• Advantages: Great price
• Cons: Straps could be sturdier, polyester outer will wear much faster than the nylon used in the best bags
• Best Price Available: $119
• Capacity: 54L / 3300 cu. in.
• Weight:  3.75lbs
• Dimensions: 9 x 22 x 14 inches
• Materials: Polyester
• Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty

• Kelty Redwing 44 and 50 : Only $120 for a legendary outdoor and travel backpack

Best Duffel Bags for Carry On that Double As Backpacks

Functional duffle style bags with a few additions, that make them more conducive to staying organized and traveling. I only recommend these for travel of less than one week or with little movement, but they’re great day to day bags.

A Note on Duffle Bags as Carry on Bags:

For the weekend traveler or the frequent traveler only going from airport to taxi to hotel, a convertible duffle bag may be a simple, functional and cheap solution. “Convertible Duffle Bags” offer a one up on reglar duffel bags because they can be worn as a backpack as well. Granted, these bags won’t be perfect for long hikes, they will make travel easier when walking a couple miles through urban terrain or changing a few buses. But, whatever you do, make sure to get a good shoulder strap.

I personally don’t recommend the pure duffel bag option if traveling more than a week, especially if you’re frequently changing where you sleep, but the following two options are great for any length of trip thanks to the shoulder straps and functional setup.

Tom Bihn Aeronaut 45L (The Functional Convertible Duffle)

A meticulously designed urban travel bag that emphasizes organization, via 3 main compartments and countless pockets, and versatility, as it can be loaded and worn as a backpack or shoulder bag/duffle.

Tom Bihn’s Aeronaut incorporates extremely heavy-duty materials, such as 1600D ballistic nylon and YKK zippers, ensure this is a “buy it for life” investment. For those that don’t plan to abuse this bag enough to warrant ballistic nylon, the bag is also available in a lighter 450D nylon.

For the consummate urban traveler that is more concerned with keeping the contents of their bag organized than using it to scale mountains in their free time, the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 45L is a strong candidate.

Best for: Purely urban travelers that have difficulty staying organized, travelers looking for a bag that will do double duty as the gym back you take to work in the mornings that is built durably to last a lifetime Advantages: • Versatility – can be carried as a backpack, shoulder bag, and duffle with a removable frame • Choice of fabrics to choose for light weight (450D nylon) or durability (ballistic nylon) • Novel, intuitive design • With the ballistic Nylon outer (design for bulletproof vests) and lifetime guarantee of workmanship this bag should last for years. • Design: Divided into three compartments with side opening clamshell design for main compartment and top opening/accessing for side compartments Price: $295 Dimensions: 21.9″ x 14″ x9.1″ |55.5cm x 35.5cm x23cm Capacity: 45L | 2700 cu. In. Weight: 1050 Denier Ballistic Nylon – 3lbs 1 oz | 1.4 kg. Weight: 450 Denier Nylon – 2lbs 7oz. | 1.1 kg. Materials:  1050D Balistic Nylon or 650D Ripstop Nylon (your choice); YKK #10 Zippers; Duraflex buckles Warranty: Lifetime free repair and replacement for manufacturer defects. Repair for a reasonable fee of wear and tear Pick this bag if: • Staying organized is difficult for you • You prefer compartmentalized bags to separate things (shoes, gear, etc.)

North Face Base Camp Duffel

An awesome, outdoor tested duffle for cheap.

The North Face Base Camp Duffle is a great convertible duffle bag option as it delivers very well on a simple concept: Duffle with handles and shoulder straps. The best part is the Base Camp Duffle is absolutely a carry on, and it can fit on any plane…but it’s on you to not overstuff the thing.

I’ve had my Base Camp Duffel for a couple years and love it…I was considering using it for this year long trip with a the Ruckpack 28 as a daypack (checkout our REI Ruckpack 28 Review ) when I wasn’t sure if my GORUCK GR3 would arrive in time. The North Face Base Camp Duffle has normal, short carrying handles as well as comfortable shoulder straps to use when moving around town. The fabric is waterproof, though the seams are not waterproof sealed, so count on this bag to be very water resistant, but not quite waterproof.

The outer bottom of the bag is covered with a nylon canvas to protect the waterproof fabric from abrasion and extend the life of the bag. Functional daisy chain loops line the outside of the bag so, with help of some small Metolius carabiners , you can clip shoes, wet gear, or anything else to the outside of the bag. For the price, this is a great duffle that I’ve used it a ton. I wouldn’t plan on hiking with it, but it’s a great carry on option for holding most of your gear and using an REI Ruckpack 28 or a GORUCK GR1 for your other adventures up to a few days

Pro Tip: If you like this bag but don’t need it right now and have Vietnam on your itinerary, visit Hanoi and buy one of these bags for ~$15 -$30 that  have been cut by “quality control” (“or fallen off the backs of trucks”) but are still perfectly solid for use. Look for the “Made in Vietnam” stores as a starting point. I have a The North Face Japan edition backpack that I picked up in Hanoi for my motorcycle ride through Vietnam and Laos. I still have that bag to this day and love it. Bottom line: Pickup this pack cheap in Vietnam, or get it from REI. Either way, you’re getting a great deal.

Best for: General travel, when you have a separate bag for the hikes and treks Advantages: Great quality gear dumpster for the price Cons: • Shoulder strap system isn’t comfortable enough for legitimate hiking and there is no back support system which also limits hiking. Think of the Base Camp Duffle as a gear dumpster to pair with a small hiking pack. • This thing is huge (good) and its on you to not over pack (bad) Price: $149 at REI Online Weight: 3lbs 8 oz. | 1.6 kg Dimensions: 13.9 x 25.4 inches Capacity: 71 liters | 4,333 Cu. In. Materials: 1000-denier fabric laminate (waterproof)/840-denier ballistic nylon (abrasion reistant) Warranty: 1 Year satisfaction guarantee through REI Also Consider: The Patagonia Black Hole Line

Peak Designs Duffle (60L)

This well crafted duffle converts between a three-way carry, as a backpack, hand-carry duffle, and a shoulder-slung duffle. This 65 liter pack is soft sided enough that you could underpack it and easily get it onto a plane as a regulation compliant carry on.

Patagonia Black Hole Duffle (40L)

Patagonia’s Black Hole duffle lives up to the outdoor gear company’s reputation of high quality in gear (in design, materials, and construction) combine with simplicity. This perfectly sized 40L duffle will deliver great performance for a lifetime.

Tough drag handles, waterproof TPU coated cloth, multiple handles and convertible straps for flexible carry, and more make this bag a great carry on friendly bag for travel.

Monarc Settra Duffel Backpack

WANDRD HEXAD Access Duffle Backpack

A techy, well designed, and comfortable backpack style carry duffel bag at a great price.

Osprey Transporter Duffle Bag (40L)

A simple, functional duffle from one of the most reliable backpack manufacturers for travelers at a great price given the quality.

Tom Bihn Techonaut 30 (30L) and 45 (45L)

Osprey Sojourn Wheeled Travel Backpack (45L)

Expandable and Extra Space Options

For long term travelers, during your trip the pile of what you’re carrying can grow and shrink like most waistlines during the holidays. Whether you’re picking up some extra gear for a long hike or accumulating cooking ingredients while traveling overland by bus, having an expandable storage option that straps easily to the outside of your bag and folds flat when empty (as not to violate carryon restrictions) is a convenient way to hold those temporary additions.

The GORUCK Brick Bag 18L

Tough, expandable storage option

Of the 15 or so “compression sacks”, packing cubes, and stuff sacks I’ve been through, the GORUCK Tough Compression Bag is by far the best. This bag is roomy, tough , and easily attaches to my GORUCK GR3.

My GORUCK Brick Bag is currently strapped to the bottom of my GORUCK GR3 and holds shoes, dirty laundry, and anything I don’t feel like packing when traveling by boat, bus, or foot. When I fly, I empty it (making sure I did my laundry), repack my main ruck, and make carryon restrictions just fine. Over 6 months of travel, and sitting on the bottom of my travel ruck, the bag has been rained on, dragged, and beaten pretty well, but is still in fairly great condition (no holes or abrasion).

For comparison, my REI bags have all been filled with holes and worn through after 4 months of travel. The rain resistance and buckle system or two more keys that make this the expandable storage bag you should get.

Best for: Expandable storage capable of taking abuse and can be strapped to the bottom of a bag Advantages: Durability Cons: • Needs vertical compression straps to be a true compression bag • I wish it made coffee for me in the morning • 4x the price of other compression bags – but will last 10x longer, at least. Price: $90 Weight: .73lbs Dimensions: 19.5 x 13 x 13 in. 49.5 x 33 x 33 Capacity: 18L | 1098 cu. in. Material: 1000D Cordura nylon (abrasion resistant, water resistant)

Compressible Duffles as Carry On Bags and “Leave Behind” Bags

If you’re making a long hike, trek, or trip in country and returning to the same spot, keeping a “leave behind bag” handy is a great idea. I’ve had great experiences keeping a flat folding duffle (like the GORUCK Kit Bag ) or easy stowing duffle (like the REI Roadtripper ) to store things in and leave at a location I’ll come back to later.

During my Everest and Patagonia treks, which were in the middle of 6-month long trips, having a “leave behind bag” allowed me to easily drop my gear at a hostel in town, lightening my load for my trek, and returning to quickly grab the goods on my bus out of town. If you plan to be on the road for more than a few months and have some multi-day adventures planned, definitely bring a leave behind bag to make life easier.

GORUCK Aviator Kit Bag 32L

Best Hand Carry Luggage & A Durable Little Duffle

When looking for a pure duffle bag that is simplistic yet easy to organize and will last through abuse , the GORUCK 32L Aviator bag is a great option.

The GORUCK Kit Bag will perform well as a carryon weekend bag, gym duffle, or even suffice for travels up to a week if you use packing cubes and aren’t moving too much. The bag has a very clean aesthetic, muting how well built the bag is.

The 1000D Cordura Nylon and military grade webbing show little signs of use and no abrasion after 6 months of being my leave behind bag and “improvised briefcase” while doing the digital nomad things. Also, the fold flat design let this bag fit easily into the front pocket of my GORUCK GR3 until its ready for use.

Though I advise against using this bag for long term, or as a one bag travel backpack (get something that has shoulder straps), I’m addicted to it as a durable handbag and small duffle. If you do use this bag for travel, absolutely pickup some packing cubes. These Travel Wise nylon packing cubes are what I’ve used for the past 6 months and they’re great. The packing cubes also fit the GORUCK Kit Bag perfectly.

Best for: Leaving gear behind during treks, carryon bag when traveling for weekend trips, gym bag, daily use as an improvised briefcase. Why this bag? A weekender bag that will survive the apocalypse, and keep you organized along the way

My Experience: I accidentally brought this bag on my trip intending send it back to the US…but it went from pinch hitter to being used pretty much on a daily basis. My favored day bag, the REI Flash 22, started to rip at the shoulder straps after 2 years of carrying too much weight (~10lbs) so I started using this bag as a briefcase and urban day bag, instead of just a “leave behind” bag.

The bag quickly became my go to for anything that wasn’t hiking. It can withstand heavier loads (grocery shopping), slings easily over the shoulder easily, and the pockets keep everything organized on the inside (charging cables, laptop, notebooks, snacks, pet ferret) and easily accessible on the outside (immediate snacks, water, cell phone, book/kindle, notebook). I repaired my Flash 22 but I still use this bag as my “briefcase” on workdays (digital nomad problems) and as a personal item on flights to keep the essentials close.

Bottom line: I love this bag. Way better performance and usefulness than I thought I would get Design Notes: The bag has 5 well placed and designed pockets that allow storage and easy access to anything, while doing an impressive job of keeping the bag organized: two on the outer ends, two zippered mesh pockets on the internal ends, and one easy to access internal zippered pockets.

Cons: • Shoulder strap not included – but reviews say the GORUCK shoulder strap isn’t worth buying, so opt for a different one. • Wouldn’t recommend for trips over a week • Fabric (1000D Cordura Nylon) is bulkier than lightweight options – but I appreciate the durability I get in return. Price: $160 Weight/size: 2.5lbs | 1.2 kg Dimensions: 17.5 x 11.5 x 9 in | 44.5 x 29 x 23 Capacity: 32L | 1952 Cu in Materials: 1000D Cordura Nylon, YKK zippers Warranty: GORUCK SCARS guarantee, they’l replace it for life Also consider • Redoxx – C-ruck Carry-on Rucksack $285.00 • Redoxx – Small Aviator Bags

Read the full GORUCK Kit Bag Review

A Cheap and Practical Little Duffle

The REI Roadtripper duffle is another great, simple duffle that packs away into a small package.

The no frills design of the REI Roadtripper Duffle is just right for tossing in gear to leave behind during adventures (instead of using a flimsy trash bag) and still packs into a small disk that can sit at the bottom of your bag. During my Asia trip last year, this bag sat at the bottom of my REI Trail 40 for most the trip, but when I hiked to Everest Base Camp and when I rode the loop around north Vietnam starting and ending in Hanoi I left half of my gear at my hostel in the Roadtripper duffle to lighten the load. As a simple, no frills leave behind bag that sits at the bottom of your pack otherwise, I recommend considering the REI Roadtripper.

Best for: Leaving gear behind during adventures, expandable storage that packs into the bottom of your backpack Advantages: Cheap, packs away efficiently

Pros: • You really can’t be this price • Packs down small Cons: • Not functional enough to be an everyday bag • Didn’t feel durable enough to survive a trip as a primary bag • Polyester material – which isn’t the most durable Price: $40 Weight: 1lb 2 oz. Dimensions (Upacked): 21 x 10 x 10 inches Capacity: 40L | 2,440 cubic inches Materials: Polyester Warranty: 1 year satisfaction guarantee through REI

Other Well Reviewed Backpacks and Manufacturers to Consider

Though this list has most of the best travel backpack options available in carry on size, the list is not exhaustive. This list is just meant to be a starting point for anyone shopping for a new bag. There are several other reputable backpacks and backpack manufacturers to consider if the bags above don’t suit your needs and tastes.

Backpacks are like boots — what may be perfect for someone, may not be perfect for you…and there’s nothing wrong with that. In those cases, use what you’ve learned from the list above and consider these other bags and manufacturers that have great reputations or are newer but full of potential.

• Heimplanet Travel Pack 34L**
• Amazon Basics Slim Carry On Travel Basic Weekend**
• Troubadour Goods Aero Pack**
• Large Expandable Knack Pack**
• Eastpak Travel Pack Cnnct**
• Thule Subterra (40L)**
• Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable Daypack (Urban Carry on Alternative)**
• 5.11 Rush 72 – 55L , (GORUCK GR3 Alternative)**
• 5.11 Rush 24 – 37L , (GORUCK GR2 Alternative)**

Smaller Carry On Backpack Options

• REI Ruckpack 28 (28L)   read our REI Ruckpack 28 Review to learn more
• A er Flight Pack 2 (23L )
• Tom Bihn Western Flyer (26L)
• Patagonia Black Hole Pack (30L)
• Osprey Nebula 34

Now What? Grabbing the Other Travel Essentials

• Get packing cubes
• Get a packable daypack
• Get a toiletry bag to stay organized and safe from exploding toothpaste**
• Use a good packing list to avoid missing the important things**
• Slim down your wardrobe and get travel friendly gear to make your travels lighter**

Other Travel Essentials: Packing Cubes

If you’re traveling with only a carry on bag, every square inch matters for packing – and this is why you need packing cubes. Packing cubes are essentially zippered squares of breathable fabric for organizing your clothes and essentially act as drawers. This allows you to easily keep your backpack organized and use space more efficiently

The Packing Cubes I Recommend

• Tortuga Outbreaker Packing Cubes : Tough, well designed, and high quality
• Peak Design Packing Cubes : Cheap for the quality, well designed, lots of sizes
• GORUCK Packing Cubes: Tough, ready for abuse, lifetime warranty
• Amazon Basics Packing Cubes : Cheap, reliable

Other Travel Essentials: A Packable Daypack

If your carry on backpack is 35 liters or larger, carrying it around throughout the day will be annoying, cancelling out the convenience and benefit of a carry on backpack. Instead of using your carry on backpack daily, I highly recommend taking a packable daypack that will tuck away neatly and unnoticeably at the bottom of your main carry on bag.

I’ve saved you the trouble of searching and created this list of the 27 best packable daypacks for travel .

Carry On Backpack Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cheapest carry on backpack for international travel.

The REI Trail 40 is one the cheapest and effective carry on backpacks for international travel .

What is the best carry on backpack for international travel?

The best carry on backpacks for travel are the Osprey Farpoint 40L for backpackers, the Tortuga Outbreaker for digital nomads, and the GORUCK GR3 for hard users and long term travelers.

What size backpack is allowed as carry-on a plane?

Most airlines limit carry on sizes to  9 inches x 14 inches x 22 inches  (22 centimeters x 35 centimeters x 56 centimeters) and 40lbs, however the carry on limitations tend to vary by continent and airline with budget airlines in Europe and Southeast Asia having more strict limits.

Can you take a 40L backpack as a carry-on? Is a 40L backpack carry-on size?

Most 40 liter backpacks are allowable as carry on backpacks, however, their measurements must generally be under 9 inches x 14 inches x 22 inches.

Can a 45L backpack be a carry-on?

Most 45 liter backpacks are allowable as carry on backpacks, however, their measurements must generally be under 9 inches x 14 inches x 22 inches. Ultimately airline carry on size restrictions and the individual backpacks dimensions determine whether or not a specific 45L backpack can be a carry on.

Can a 55l backpack be a carry-on?

Most 55l backpacks are too large to be carry on items, however, if the overall size can be compressed to 9 inches x 14 inches x 22 inches then the bag will be allowed as a carry-on

Can I fly with a backpack and a carry-on?

You can fly with a backpack as a personal item and a carry-on item if the airline allows bringing a personal item and the backpack meets the measurements and weight for that specific airline’s personal item policy.

What is the best bag to take on a plane?

The best bag to take on an airplane is a backpack with plenty of handles on top, bottom, and sides, has few external straps and buckles, and is slightly smaller than the carry on size dimensions limit.

What are the best stylish Carry on backpacks?

The best stylish carry on backpacks are the Tortuga Outbreaker , the Nomatic Navigator , and the Peak Design travel bag .

Other Great Travel Content

• The Best Military Grade Travel Backpacks : For hard users and those who prioritize durability
• The 21 Best Packing Cubes for Backpacking
• 8 Great Travel Shoes
• 5 Best Travel Shorts
• 15 Best Men’s Travel Pants
• My Carry On Backpack List for a Year of Travel
• 9 Great Hiking Backpacks

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Carlos is a nomad, slow traveler, and writer dedicated to helping others live abroad and travel better by using his 7+ years of experience living abroad and background as a management consultant and financial advisor to help other nomad and expats plot better paths for an international lifestyle. Click here to learn more about Carlos's story.

TheRidgelineReport

Tuesday 2nd of October 2018

I think I have an obsession with packs, and have about a million on my list. Love the look and detailing of the Minaal, and that one has been on my radar for some time now. There's a couple by Timbuk2 that I really love - the especial series is awesome. In any case, still looking to land on a million bucks so I can try them all!

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The 16 Best Laptop Backpacks of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

We love a laptop backpack that's spacious, has organizational pockets, and will keep our laptops safe during travel.

In This Article

Jump to a Section

• Our top picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips For Buying
• Why Trust T+L

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Since a laptop usually comes at a high price, it’s well worth it to invest in a backpack designed to protect your technology when you’re on the go. Whether you’re traveling on an airplane or trekking through campus, a comfortable, well-made backpack with a padded laptop pocket is a must-have.

Because comfort and durability are arguably the two most important factors when investing, we tested more than 50 laptop backpacks on several occasions in our New York City lab and in the real world to find the best ones for everyday wear with these considerations in mind. We packed each bag with computers, iPads, sweatshirts, and more, and carried them around to see how they felt. We then tossed each one onto the ground from a tabletop to test the bag’s durability (using dummy laptops, of course). Keep reading to learn more about our top picks for style, comfort, value, and more.

Best Overall

Solo re:define backpack.

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

The bag looks and feels compact but has a surprisingly large interior.

One of the zippers is fraying after four months of use.

Looking for a commuter backpack to take with you to the office and beyond? Solo’s Re:Define Backpack is equipped with everything a traveler or commuter needs for long days away from home. At first glance, the bag looks like a normal-sized backpack but it has a deceptively large interior with plenty of pockets to store both big and small items. The 15.6-inch laptop pocket in the back is fully padded and the bag also has an external USB port and a headphone port for traveling seamlessly with electronic devices. Even when we had the bag packed full of accessories and clothing, it felt nearly weightless and exceptionally comfortable to carry thanks to the padded and adjustable shoulder straps.

Made with recycled polyester, the backpack performed perfectly during our durability tests and didn’t sustain any scuffs or scratches after we tossed it onto the ground several times. All of the contents packed appeared to be in their original condition, so we feel confident in this backpack’s protective abilities. The zippers also impressed us by being super smooth even when the bag was packed to the brim. While it’s not the most stylish backpack on the market, its functional and simple design makes it well worth it — a great option for anyone looking for a durable backpack .

The Details: 18 x 13 x 7 inches | 22.5 liters | 1.43 pounds | Recycled PET polyester | 15.6-inch laptop pocket | USB port

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Best Leather

Bee & kin the midi nomad backpack.

Bee & Kin

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

The sleek leather material looks nicer than a typical nylon backpack.

The straps are a bit too long, even when they are adjusted to the shortest setting.

Constructed with soft and sleek Italian leather, this mid-size backpack has the perfect combination of style and functionality. It’s big enough to fit a laptop up to 13 inches long, but it’s small enough that you can use it beyond traveling or commuting for everyday activities like running errands. After four months of use, we found this to be the perfect medium-size bag that is easy to clean, making it a perfect option for everyday use. It can easily fit a laptop, water bottle, wallet, notebook, and headphones with plenty of room left over. While we love the size for versatility, it still has plenty of thoughtful features for travelers like a pocket for a wireless charger ( sold separately ) and several interior pockets for storing accessories.

The leather material has a soft and plush feel to it which makes carrying the bag comfortable, but we wish the straps were a little shorter since the bag sits a little low on the back. Since the backpack is smaller and lightweight, this isn’t a huge issue and we still think the high-quality backpack is worth it for traveling, commuting, and everyday use.

The Details: 13 x 11.6 x 5.5 inches | 2.6 pounds | Leather | 13-inch laptop pocket

Best Convertible

Aer flight pack 3.

• Value 4.5 /5

You can wear this either as a backpack or a duffel bag.

The laptop sleeve is just a slip pocket in the main compartment.

We love that you can choose to wear the Aer Flight Pack 3 as a daily commuter’s backpack or convert it into a duffel bag or briefcase for a business trip or weekend getaway. There are plenty of pockets for organization with a designated laptop sleeve in the main compartment, another compartment with more than seven smaller pockets, and a small zippered pouch in the front. The laptop sleeve is only a slip pocket, and while it kept the laptop in place during our durability test, it isn’t as secure as it could be if it was a zippered pocket. We also found that there's a lot of space for clothes and tech devices for a quick weekend getaway or business trip. Because the pack is made with abrasion- and tear-resistant ballistic nylon, it feels sturdy and durable, sustaining no damage after we dropped it off a tabletop. Plus, we found the backpack, top handle, and duffel straps equally comfortable when carrying the bag in all three ways.

The Details: 18 x 12 x 5.5 inches | 20 liters | 3.4 pounds | Cordura ballistic nylon | 16-inch laptop pocket

Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph

Best Padding

Incase icon backpack.

• Design 4 /5
• Value 4.3 /5

The backpack is outfitted with thick padding.

It doesn’t have a water bottle pocket or trolley sleeve.

The Incase Icon Pack thoroughly impressed us with very thick padding throughout the backpack which adds an abundance of protection and comfort. The back has a padded laptop sleeve that was noticeably thick when we first opened up the backpack. When we dropped the bag onto the floor to test for durability, none of the contents were damaged. The thick padding in the back and on the straps provides comfort while wearing the pack, and we love that the adjustable strap is lined with a soft fabric. Although we wish this backpack came with more features like a water bottle holder or a trolley sleeve, the pack has two spacious compartments, a front pocket, and a variety of smaller pockets for exceptional organization on the inside, making it well worth the investment for the comfortable, durable backpack.

The Details: 19 x 13 x 9 inches | 20 liters | 2.7 pounds | 840D nylon | 15-inch laptop pocket

Best Expandable

Samsonite elevation plus backpack.

• Organization 5 /5
• Portability 5 /5

The expandable zippers add tons of extra space.

It's not the most stylish backpack.

I've tested dozens of backpacks and it can be hard to find a backpack that stands out from others, which is why I'm a big fan of this one from Samsonite, which I personally tested in the lab. While it has a simple design from the outside, the backpack is filled with special features that make it better than your average backpack. It has tons of pockets to store every travel essential you could ever need, including laptops, tablets, notebooks, chargers, passports, and it has a water bottle pocket on the side that keeps a bottle secure (it didn't even fall out when I threw the pack off a table several times). However, my favorite part of the pack is the expandable zipper that adds 1.5 inches of extra space, which came in handy when I packed the bag with an extra jacket. Plus, it fits underneath an airplane seat with ease, and there's extra padding in the back paneling and shoulder straps for superior comfort while traveling.

The Details: 17.8 x 12 x 6.5 inches | 22.75 liters | 2.2 pounds | Recycled polyester | Expandable

Best Solar-powered

Solgaard lifepack backpack.

• Comfort 4 /5

It’s made out of recycled plastic bottles found on beaches and has a built-in, solar-powered USB charger.

The capacity is smaller than other backpacks we tested.

While this backpack impressed us during testing, it also won us over thanks to Solgaard’s sustainability mission in which all of its products are made with ocean-bound recycled materials. The brand uses its patented Shore-tex material to create this backpack with recycled plastic water bottles found on beaches or river banks. In addition, the backpack includes a solar-powered USB charging port so you can charge on the go without having to worry about the life of your power bank. In our testing lab, we were able to fit all of the items on our packing list, including a sweatshirt, a laptop, an iPad, a notebook, and a water bottle, but there wasn’t a lot of space left over. The laptop sleeve is in the back of the bag, and although it’s just a slip pocket, it wasn’t damaged during our durability tests. When it comes to padding, the backpack is outfitted with ample cushioning that makes it comfortable to wear with the adjustable, supportive chest strap, too.

The Details: 12.4 x 6.9 x 19 inches | 19 liters | 4.85 Pounds | Anti-theft lock | USB port

Best Splurge

Lo & sons rowledge.

Lo & Sons

The nylon material and leather accents give the backpack a sleek look without sacrificing protection.

The laptop compartment is too small for any computers over 13 inches long.

Lo & Sons’ The Rowledge laptop backpack is one of the most expensive bags we tested, but it seriously delivered in performance. The nylon exterior outfitted with leather accents makes this sleek, timeless bag a dream for travelers and office-goers. While it may small from the outside, we found that it was possible to fit a sweatshirt, a laptop, an iPad, a notebook, and a water bottle with ease. Our only gripe is that the laptop pocket can only fit laptops that are 13 inches or smaller, so you'll want to consider that if you own a larger computer. The adjustable straps and ample padding throughout the entire backpack add to the comfort and durability of the pack. Although the bag felt a little stiff at first, the material quickly contours to the shape of your shoulders and back over time for a more comfortable fit after a few wears. After tossing the bag off of a tabletop, the laptop remained unharmed in the designated sleeve in the back of the bag, and the exterior showed no signs of damage, so we think this sturdy, well-made backpack is worth the splurge.

The Details: 16.5 x 11.5 x 6.75 inches | 21 liters | 3.2 pounds | Nylon, leather | 13.5-inch laptop pocket

Best Budget

Tzowla travel laptop backpack.

• Capacity 4.8 /5
• Comfort 4.8 /5
• Durability 4.5 /5

The bag has lots of smart features for travelers.

The materials feel lower in quality.

This wallet-friendly backpack exceeded expectations during testing due to all of the thoughtful designs that rivaled the most expensive bags we tested. After four months of regularly using the bag, we especially love the padded laptop sleeve that protects laptops up to 15.6 inches long. The backpack has a variety of other smart features including a USB port, a passcode lock, and a headphone port to make traveling with electronics a breeze. We found that the main compartment is very spacious and easy to pack with bulkier items like a jacket or lunchbox, and the front compartment has tons of little pockets for organizing smaller items.

Made with polyester fabric, the backpack feels fairly durable and didn’t get damaged during our durability tests, but it is noticeably lower quality than the other bags we tested with a higher price point. However, the straps have comfortable padding and adjustable buckles, so the bag is still very comfortable to carry.

The Details: 18.5 x 11.8 x 5.5 inches | 34 liters | 1.83 pounds | Polyester blend | 15.6-inch laptop pocket | USB and headphone port | Password lock

Best Organization

Timbuk2 authority laptop backpack deluxe.

• Capacity 4.5 /5

It has plenty of pockets for organizing all of your belongings efficiently.

The capacity could have been bigger.

The Timbuk2 Authority Laptop Backpack Deluxe has a variety of interior and exterior pockets to help you stay organized on the go. There’s a designated spot for all of your must-haves with a padded laptop pocket in the back, a main compartment with slip and zippered pockets, and a spacious front pocket for items like a notebook. Plus, there’s a side slip pocket for your water bottle and a trolley sleeve for attaching the pack to a suitcase. We love the ability to access your laptop from the back zipper or through the main compartment of the backpack. Additionally, we appreciated the sleek pack’s compression straps so you can adjust the capacity of the bag, but we still thought the main compartment could have been a bit larger. The padded backpack straps are comfortable to wear for long periods of time, and if you live in a rainy climate, the durable recycled nylon exterior is also water-resistant.

The Details: 18.9 x 11.42 x 5.31 inches | 20 liters | 2.51 pounds | Recycled nylon | 17-inch laptop pocket

Most Versatile

Monos metro backpack.

The front pocket comes off so you can travel with or without the extra space.

The original model has visible snaps when the front pocket is removed, but that's been updated with the newer version.

The Monos Metro Backpack has a removable front pocket that adds quite a bit of extra space which is a game-changer for traveling. For other times when you may not need the excess room, all you have to do is pull the discrete cord in the back of the pouch to release pouch and take it off. Best of all, when you remove the pouch, the backpack still looks sleek, and it doesn't look like any part of the bag is missing thanks to the brand's modular system for taking on and off the pouch.

We love the soft vegan leather look of the backpack and found the materials to provide protection against laptop damage when we dropped it. There are several pockets inside the main compartment, and the laptop pocket is in the back, separated from the rest of the bag. Whether you're traveling on an airplane or heading into the office, this stylish bag is ideal for those looking for a versatile backpack. It also comes in nylon fabric with more colors to choose from.

The Details: 11.5 × 16.5 × 6 inches | 18 liters | 3 pounds | Vegan leather or nylon | 15-inch laptop pocket

Travel + Leisure / Anna Popp

Everlane ReNew Transit Backpack

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

This lightweight backpack has a sleek, contemporary design that comes in several earthy colors.

It has a smaller capacity than many backpacks and can only fit a day or two of clothes.

If you’re looking to travel in style with a great carry-on backpack , Everlane’s The ReNew Transit Backpack is the perfect fit. Functional and contemporary, we found it to best suited for day outings because of its smaller capacity. The bag fit all of the packing items during testing, but it would be difficult to fit much more in the main compartment. The ReNew Transit was also comfortable to wear thanks to its lightweight polyester material and compact build. The front flap of the backpack has an external pocket for smaller items, and it folds over to attach magnetically to the front of the backpack.

During our durability tests, the front magnets stayed securely together, and the body of the backpack didn’t get crushed or damaged after we threw it off a table multiple times. We liked how it can fit under an airplane seat, making it a versatile backpack when traveling, too. The laptop sleeve keeps a computer safe, and there's also a water bottle holder on the side and an additional front zippered pocket below the folding magnetic lock. With five earthy tones to choose from, this is a bag to fit all travel style preferences.

The Details: 12 x 17.5 x 7.25 inches | 27 liters | Recycled polyester | 15-inch laptop pocket

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Bagsmart Bonchemin Laptop Backpack

The high-quality material and functional design is similar to pricier bags we tried.

You have to clip the laptop pocket with the provided carabiners otherwise the bag will open and your laptop will drop.

Rivaling higher-priced backpacks we tried, this option from Bagsmart proves that you don’t have to sacrifice quality for a lower price, so we dubbed it the best backpack for its high value. During our tests, we found that this bag is spacious enough to fit a laptop, an iPad, a notebook, and a sweatshirt with plenty of room left over to add more. The backpack is made with a cushioned polyester fabric and foam padded straps that had us raving about comfort when wearing. However, because the bag is made out of fabric, it may get dirtier than a nylon pack, but it didn’t show any signs of damage during our durability tests.

With four separate zippered compartments and more than 10 interior pockets, travelers will also appreciate the variety of spots to organize everything. The pack also has anti-theft zippers, a USB charging port, a side water bottle pocket, and a trolley sleeve, making this one of the best-designed laptop backpacks we tried.

The Details: 18.5 x 12.5 x 7 inches | 40 liters | 1.5 pounds | Polyester | 15.6-inch laptop pocket | USB port

Best for Photographers

Peak design everyday backpack.

It comes with Velcro separators for added protection for camera or video gear.

The magnetic top opening has a slight learning curve to open the backpack easily.

The Peak Design Everyday Backpack will give you peace of mind when it comes to protecting your camera or video equipment while traveling. Its structured design adds extra protection, and the backpack comes with four stiff Velcro separators to further protect fragile technology. Plus, the padded laptop sleeve in the back will ensure that your laptop travels safely. The icing on the cake of this backpack is how lightweight it feels to wear, especially for long periods of time. The weatherproof nylon exterior didn’t scuff or get scratched when we threw the backpack onto the floor, and best of all, the laptop and iPad remained unharmed. Since the bag is designed for photographers, it comes with three separators that you can fasten to the side of the backpack to protect and organize camera gear. The magnetic top latch was slightly finicky to open at first, but once done, it gets easier to use.

The Details: 24.5 x 14.2 x 7.8 inches | 30 liters | 4.1 pounds | Recycled nylon, polyester | 15-inch laptop pocket | Fits DSLR cameras

Best for Students

Fjällräven räven 28.

• Durability 4.3 /5

The backpack is comfortable and breathable to wear while walking.

The polyester blend wasn’t as durable as we hoped.

For students walking across campus or between classes, the Fjällräven Räven 28 Backpack is the best option. We love how breathable the back padding is and that it provides plenty of cushioning and support when it's on. The design itself is not bulky, so we weren't worried about brushing up against other people while walking through crowded places during our real-world test. Plus, there are tons of pockets in the main compartment for classroom essentials, and each side of the backpack has a water bottle slip pocket.

We did notice that this bag easily collects dust or lint after it is tossed on the ground. Despite the slight dirtiness of the fabric, we found that the backpack does an excellent job of protecting a laptop in the designated padded sleeve in the back. It's not difficult to fit varying needs, even after using it on a daily commute for two months, and we found it battled the elements well, keeping a computer untouched by rain, too.

The Details: 18.5 x 14 x 6.1 inches | 28 liters | Polyester and cotton with wax coating | 15-inch laptop pocket

Best Sustainable

Troubadour orbis 1-pocket backpack.

• Design 4.3 /5

It’s made with 100 percent recycled materials that can be fully recycled if the bag can no longer be used.

The main zipper has a fabric trim over it that makes it difficult to open and close the bag.

This backpack from Troubadour is one of the most unique backpacks we’ve ever tested. Not only is the bag made with 100 percent recycled fabric but when it’s no longer able to be used, it can actually be recycled instead of going into a landfill. While we’re big fans of the sustainability of the bag, it’s also extremely comfortable to wear and looks very sleek from the outside.

The back panel and shoulder straps have lifejacket-level padding so you’ll be plenty comfortable wearing the bag for long periods of time. Your laptop will be thoroughly protected thanks to the cushioned pocket in the back — a distinguishing feature of a good laptop bag . There's an ideal amount of small and medium pockets sprinkled throughout the interior and exterior so it’s easy to pack a sweatshirt, book, phone charger, keys, and more for a trip. The design and materials of the bag feel exceptionally durable, and it still looks new after four months of regular use. The only issue we ran into was with the zipper being slightly difficult to find because of the fabric hood that covers the main zipper.

The Details: 16.5 x 11.8 x 5.5 inches | 17.6 liters | 3.3 pounds | Recycled polyester | 16-inch laptop pocket

Béis The Backpack

• Design 4.8 /5

It has a simple, no-frills design for extra versatility.

It may be too large for every-day use.

We love the simple design of the Béis backpack and found that it’s packed full of thoughtful features making it the perfect backpack for travelers , students, and commuters alike. We were impressed with the large capacity of the main compartment that could easily fit all of the items on our packing list, including tech items like a laptop and iPad on the inside and a water bottle in one of the two slip pockets on the sides. The main compartment has several smaller pockets and a designated padded laptop sleeve. After we did our drop test to evaluate the durability, the padding did a good job of protecting the laptop, but there isn’t padding at the bottom of the bag which had us questioning how much protection the backpack offers. Even when it was completely packed, the padded straps were comfortable to wear, and the back had more padding for added comfort.

The Details: 19 x 13 x 5.5 inches | 22 liters | 1.8 pounds | Cotton, PVC, polyester | 14.5-inch laptop pocket

Other Laptop Backpacks We Liked

Here are some other backpacks we've tested that are worth mentioning, all of which we liked for various reasons but found some slight issues with.

Away The Everywhere Zip Backpack : The design is sleek and functional, but we think there isn’t enough padding for comfort or laptop protection if the bag is handled roughly.

Samsonite Classic Leather Slim Backpack : The slim design is sleek and professional without sacrificing capacity, but the outer material did scuff a bit during our durability tests.

Vohler Laptop Backpack With Charger : This pack was a serious contender for the best budget bag thanks to its sturdy build and protective padding, but our above pick had a few more standout features than this one.

Swissgear Travel Gear 1900 Scansmart TSA Laptop Backpack : Ideal for students, travelers, or commuters, we loved that this bag is durable and has plenty of storage solutions, but it wasn’t as comfortable as we hoped.

Between several different lab testing occasions, we tested more than 50 laptop backpacks from highly rated brands like The North Face, Away, Samsonite, Swissgear, and more. We evaluated each pack on a rating scale of one to five based on capacity, design, comfort, and durability.

First, to test for capacity, we used a packing list to fill the bag with a laptop, an iPad, a sweatshirt, a water bottle, a notebook, and a toiletry bag. Backpacks scoring a five for capacity were able to fit all of the packing items and provided an appropriate amount of organization solutions for the laptop, as well as the other items both big and small. During the packing process, we evaluated the design of each bag, and our top picks for the design category had plenty of padding around the laptop pocket, a variety of helpful pockets, and handles or straps that made carrying the backpack effortless and intuitive.

Then, we put on the backpacks and walked around for at least ten minutes to get a feel for the bag. We looked out for any pain caused by shoulder or sternum straps, pinching, or any other type of discomfort. The best bags for comfort were outfitted with padding in the back and straps and didn’t cause any awkwardness or irritation from the pack. To test for durability, we pushed the backpacks off of a tabletop and checked the interior contents and exterior for any scuff marks, scratches, or damage. The backpacks also went out for four months of long-term testing in the real world so we could monitor the quality and functionality to ultimately decide which products tested best .

As we continue to test more backpacks, we will update this article with our findings.

Tips for Buying a Laptop Backpack

Check the laptop sleeve size.

Most laptops measure anywhere from 10 to 17 inches in length, so it’s important to double-check the dimensions of the laptop sleeve to ensure it fits in the designated pocket. Usually, you can find the laptop length capacity of a backpack in the “specification” description of the bag.

Padding is key for protection and comfort

The more padding around the laptop, the better protected it will be if that bag is handled roughly . Since the laptop pocket or sleeve is usually in the back of the bag, there should be padding in the back to add comfort while wearing the backpack. Also, be on the lookout for additional padding on the straps to make the bag even more comfortable to wear.

During our tests, we placed the laptop directly into the pocket without a case on it and found that the top-performing bags had enough padding to protect the laptop from getting damaged. However, if you feel more comfortable slipping it into a laptop case and placing it in the backpack, feel free to do so.

Laptops often measure anywhere from 13 to 17 inches, which is the diagonal measurement of the screen. To get the right measurement, take a tape measure and place it from one screen corner to the opposite diagonally to get the right measurement. Most laptop pockets will say what dimensions the space will fit so be sure to double-check your laptop size to get the right backpack.

It always depends on the airline you fly and the luggage restrictions that come with your ticket, but generally, a backpack can be a personal item on a flight in addition to a carry-on. However, if your laptop backpack is too large to fit underneath the seat in front of you, it could potentially count as a carry-on instead, so it's important to check with your airline ahead of time.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

T+L commerce writer Anna Popp writes most of the team's tested content and participates in every lab and real-world test to try out luggage, outdoor, and beauty products. Anna owns several laptop backpacks including picks from Monos, Troubadour, and Lo & Sons. She pulled from her own experiences traveling with backpacks and combed through thorough testing insights to recommend the best laptop backpacks.

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The Best Buy It for Life Backpack (Please Don’t Call It Tactical)

By Kit Dillon

Kit Dillon is a writer focused on bags and travel gear. He has worked for Wirecutter for a decade and lost count of the number of bags he has tested.

The prospect of buying a backpack that can last you for the rest of your life is a tempting one. Such bags do exist: They’re made of durable materials and backed by warranties that promise to repair or replace the bag no matter what happens.

They’re also frequently marketed with the unfortunate label of “tactical,” and they carry with them a fetishization of armed forces and militaria—which masks the fact that they’re often great (but expensive) bags.

Not everyone needs a backpack so tough that it will survive decades of abuse. But for those who do want—and can afford—such a bag, it can travel with you to the office and to any corner of the globe, for any activity, year after year.

We have a backpack that’s durable and designed to fit in anywhere . For photographers, we have a pick built to protect your gear from the worst rain and knocks . If you have a smaller budget, we’ve found a decent, less-expensive option that carries a lifetime warranty . And if you’re living the ultralight life, we have a packable adventure pick .

The research

Why you should trust us, super tough, with a minimalist look for every situation: goruck gr1, more access and internal organization for photographers: wandrd prvke, best price for a good, durable bag: topo designs rover pack premium, best ultralight pack: hyperlite mountain gear summit 30, how we picked and tested, what to look forward to, the competition.

I’ve reviewed bags at Wirecutter for nine years. In that time, I’ve interviewed many bag designers, fabric specialists, brand executives, and general bag obsessives. These interviews, and years of testing, have earned me at least a journeyman’s understanding of how a good bag should feel and what makes it work in a given situation.

But backpacks have always been a central concern of mine: I lived out of one, moving from couch to couch, for a year in New York City, and that experience made me hyper-attuned to backpack organization and construction.

Minimalist looks that will blend in anywhere

This bag is simple, tough, and backed by a well-tested repair-or-replace program. Short of purposefully slicing into it, there’s little you can do to it that it can’t withstand. But it comes with militaristic undertones that aren’t to everyone’s taste.

Buying Options

Get this if: You want a bag that will last your whole life but is low-key enough to fit in with whatever adventure you’re on—whether you’re trekking across a foreign country or commuting to the office.

It sets the standard. The GoRuck GR1 is a hell of a tough bag that looks at home in an office, on a trail, or dragged through a muddy pit. Although a few companies made expensive backpacks before the GR1, GoRuck more or less invented (and now defines) the tough, buy-it-for-life pack. The GR1 stands apart for its detailed construction, a flexible but simple organization that adapts to nearly any situation, and comfortable straps that mold over time to your shoulders. The GR1 is available in a 21-liter version, which is 18 inches in height, and a 26-liter one, which is 20 inches in height. If you’re over 6 feet tall, I suggest the larger version (unless you’re sure you’ll never need the extra space) since it will feel more proportional to your height.

It isn’t just tough, it’s nearly indestructible. Every seam and stitch of the GR1 is sewn with the strength of the bag in mind. The top handle, for instance, feels great in the hand. Stiff but still pliable, and reinforced beyond reason, it’s something of a GoRuck signature. Stress-tested for up to 400 pounds, the handle is ostensibly for hoisting your partner over an obstacle or wall. (GoRuck organizes obstacle runs where people carry weights in their backpacks and run along beaches and over mountains … ridiculous, I know.)

Made from 1,000-denier Cordura , a minimum standard for this kind of bag when it’s made from nylon fabric, the GR1 will withstand almost every type of abrasion besides a razor or knife cut. The YKK zippers aren’t waterproofed or sealed, but they do use a design, called reverse coil , that makes them stronger and tends to keep out more dirt and grime than a conventional zipper design. In my testing, the thick nylon fabric was fairly resistant to rain during a light shower.

It’s designed for easy access and organization . The GR1’s main compartment has a pleasing lay-flat clamshell design, which means you can open the entire bag up to reveal its contents—a handy feature if you’re packing and unpacking often. Inside the front flap are two pockets, one mesh and one covered. The front of the bag has a thin front pocket for holding slim books and the like. These three pockets provide some organization but not that much. The outer pocket is fine to use if the bag isn’t overpacked but difficult to use when it is. On the side of the bag that sits against your back, GoRuck has built an impressively sturdy laptop sleeve that is cushioned at the bottom from drops.

It’s customizable. Inside the main compartment, GoRuck added four rows of webbing for MOLLE-compatible gear. MOLLE ( Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment ) is a standard attachment system adopted by the US and British militaries and subsequently used across a variety of equipment and manufacturers. Although any MOLLE pouches can attach to this inner webbing of the GR1, GoRuck does make padded pockets ($50 each), which fit very nicely into the overall backpack if you want the extra organization. If you truly want to customize your pack, you can replace the plastic backplate of the GoRuck, which can be a little too flexible for some, with a stiffer plate ($30) that provides a comforting brace and seems to place the weight of the bag higher up on the shoulders. If you want a sternum strap, GoRuck sells one for an additional $10.

It can go the distance. When I needed a backpack for a particularly confusing part of my life, when I wasn’t sure where I’d be from one month to the next, the 26L GoRuck GR1 was the bag I picked. The same bag has been with me for more than 11 years now. It is the only backpack I’ve ever washed with a hose and hung out to dry in the sun repeatedly. Over those years the bag has aged nicely, molding to the shape of my back, and if I keep taking care of it in the same way, it will last much longer on this Earth than I will. If anything does go wrong with your bag, GoRuck has a famous (among backpack-obsessive circles, anyway) repair program with an excellent online reputation .

In 2022, GoRuck made a change to its original design, something the company does very infrequently. Two years ago it removed the 1,000-denier Cordura back panel and replaced it with a smoother and less abrasive 210-denier fabric. But there’s still very little venting on the back panel. In hot or humid climates, you will perspire against your bag. It’s unavoidable. Personally, I tend to sweat a lot, and I didn’t notice too much of a difference between this bag and other designs with more airflow while hiking in Hawaii, but it may be a frustration for some people.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• The GR1 has three rows of external MOLLE webbing and an armed-forces-style Velcro patch decal, which together (along with GoRuck’s origins and firearms training courses ) advertise a certain comfort with (some might say fetishization of) the steady militarization of the public space. Whether that’s a dealbreaker for you depends on how you perceive it.
• Material: 1,000-denier Cordura
• Size: 21 liters, 26 liters
• Weight: 2.9 pounds (21 liters), 3.5 pounds (26 liters)
• Warranty: lifetime repair or replace

Wandrd Prvke

A bag tough enough for most people but purpose-built for photographers.

This is the toughest camera bag we’ve tested. It was a bit finicky when we tried attaching the internal camera pouches, but if you want a bag to carry your expensive gear and you need it to survive some of the toughest environments and weather, this is the one to pick.

Get this if: You want a bag that will survive a hurricane while still protecting your camera, or you prefer a bag with tons of loading and access options for any kind of scenario.

It’s versatile—especially if you carry a lot of equipment. The Wandrd Prvke is a sturdy and stylish camera bag built to withstand the elements. The bag has a large roll-top flap, two small side access doors that align with Wandrd’s camera cube (not included) when it’s in place, and a back panel that opens in a clamshell fashion—the design offers the most openings of any bag we tested. This bag is versatile enough to accommodate you and your equipment whether you’re going to a photo shoot across town or preparing a one-bag travel setup for flying to another continent. The Prvke is available in 21-liter , 31-liter , and 41-liter models. The 21-liter bag feels more like a day bag, one that can work as a daily-carry backpack or, if you prefer a smaller bag, for travel. The 31-liter and 41-liter bags are better for long trips and one-bag traveling. The latest update to the design includes a luggage pass-through strap.

It’s adaptable in the extreme. Carrying and testing the Prvke, we realized that it’s easy to become spoiled (some people could feel overwhelmed) by all the packing layouts and options. Depending on how you’ve packed the bag, you can access your tech gear and laptop from the back panel, find your clothes stashed under the roll top, pull out your camera from its own cube through either side pocket, or open the clamshell back completely to access the main compartment. Or you can secure your valuables in the hidden stash pockets (one against your back and one under a cinch strap). Wandrd even included several strap-attachment points so that you can carry the backpack flat in front of you, like a hotdog vendor at a ballpark, to get inside the backpack on the go or to use it as a makeshift work surface. The bag is adaptable, and the way you use it can change for nearly any circumstance.

It’s heavy but comfortable. The Prvke is a fairly heavy backpack—one of the heaviest we tested—and that’s without the added camera gear and cubes that you’ll inevitably put in it. But Wandrd has obviously put a lot of thought into the shoulder- and hip-strap setup, as the straps are very wide and reassuringly rigid without biting into your shoulders or hips. Although I wouldn’t want to carry this bag all day, I found it remarkably comfortable for how heavy it could get. The back of the bag also has a thick molded foam panel with horizontal channels, which allow for a surprising amount of airflow. I still perspired, but that’s not unusual for me; even so, I could feel a difference with the Prvke design over the more minimal back designs of other bags.

You can add on plenty of organizing options. The Wandrd Essential Camera Cube , an extra purchase on top of the bag itself, is customizable to fit your gear and lenses. It comes in three sizes to match the three sizes of the Prvke. The smallest, the Essential cube ($65), fits less (a single DSLR and a lens or two depending on the size and the camera batteries) than does the midsize Essential Plus cube ($75), which is practically a small backpack in and of itself. The Essential Deep ($95), intended for the 41-liter pack, is a couple of inches deeper than the Essential Plus.

• The way the add-on camera cubes attach to the inside of the Prvke is fiddly and somewhat frustrating to manage. Once one is in place, it stays there, and the cubes have side panels for accessibility even while you’re on the move. But we wish they were easier to place or remove within the backpack.
• For a bag this large, we wish it offered just a bit more “admin” organization—a place for our notebooks and pens that was easy to access.
• The Prvke is an eye-catching bag, which might be a worry to some people once they’ve loaded it with thousands of dollars’ worth of camera equipment.
• Material: 1,680-denier ballistic nylon, waterproof tarpaulin
• Size: 21 liters, 31 liters, 41 liters
• Weight: 2.8 pounds (21 liters), 3.4 pounds (31 liters), 3.7 pounds (41 liters)

Topo Designs Rover Pack Premium

A lighter and (relatively) inexpensive option.

Topo is known for good-quality gear that adheres to a certain mountaineering aesthetic. This bag is nearly as strong as any of our other picks but costs substantially less. However, it does have less capacity than our other picks.

Get this if: You want the durability and warranty of our other picks but don’t want to break the bank.

It’s well built at a lower price. The Topo Designs Rover Pack Premium is made of 1,000-denier nylon, 450-denier TPE-coated ripstop, and YKK zippers—similar materials to what you’ll find in our other picks. But ingredients aren’t the beginning and end of a bag’s durability and performance. To keep this bag light in weight and relatively low in price, Topo did cut a few corners in comparison to what the makers of our other picks did on those bags—it’s unavoidable. Specifically, the Rover Pack has reduced access, smaller capacity, and lighter stitchwork. However, if you can see past these compromises, what you’re left with is an otherwise excellent and affordable buy-it-for-life backpack with a respected lifetime warranty.

The access is simple, but the hardware is upgraded. The Rover Pack is a top-loader—essentially, a cinch sack with a hinged lid held shut with two high-end metal clips. The design is a clever workaround if you’re Topo and you want a bag to remain closed to the elements—but also want to minimize expensive components (like zippers). Along the side of the bag, Topo placed four metal cinch straps. They’re somewhat superfluous given the pack’s 20-liter capacity, but they’re a mark of the premium build quality of the Topo in general. However, the top-loading design does make the interior harder to access and organize than on other bags we tested, especially those with clamshell openings.

It’s well organized but lighter than other picks. The Rover Pack has an internal sleeve that fits a 15-inch laptop. Unlike on some of our other picks, this laptop sleeve isn’t padded or reinforced. Instead, Topo sews the sleeve so that it doesn’t extend to the bottom of the bag. It’s another inexpensive workaround that’s protective enough given a little careful packing. On either side, the Rover Pack has an expanding water bottle or equipment holder. The Topo is noticeably lighter than our other picks (more than a pound less than the GoRuck), and even when fully packed it’s comfortable on your shoulders regardless of the distance you carry it. I’ve spent weeks carrying multiple Topo bags, including the Rover, with my work computer, a full set of clothes, and the various sundries I needed for a day, and never felt overloaded.

• If you want to organize this bag further, you need to add a few pouches or packing cubes to keep your gear manageable. But if you want a simple backpack with a decent capacity that costs less than our other picks, this bag’s lack of organization may not be too much of a drawback.
• Material: 1,000-denier nylon, 210-denier nylon pack cloth liner
• Size: 20 liters
• Weight: 2.25 pounds

Hyperlite Mountain Gear Summit 30

Ultra lightweight packable adventure bag.

Hyperlite’s packs have the best blend of durability and lightweight materials for day hiking and exploration. But the Summit also excels as a packable backpack if you’re willing to pay the high price.

Get this if: You want a bag that’s as tough as any we tested, but weighs about as much as a pad of paper and can pack down to just about as slim a profile.

It’s simple, durable, water resistant, and freakishly lightweight for a backpack. The Hyperlite Mountain Gear Summit 30 exists thanks to one thing: extremely lightweight, but strong, Dyneema composite fabric. Dyneema is an extruded UV-resistant polyethylene gel, which is both superlight and (by weight) about 15 times stronger than steel, water resistant, and both abrasion and tear resistant. In short, when laminated between layers of polyester film, it’s an excellent, albeit very expensive, fabric for adventure gear.

It carries more than it should and almost more than you need. The Summit has a capacity of 30 liters, which is roomy for a day bag, but the roll-top design allows you to limit the capacity when you have less to carry. Fully unrolled, the bag is 27 inches tall and 10 inches wide with a 31-inch circumference—that’s about 6 inches taller than our other picks. Hyperlite says the Summit has a load capacity of 20 pounds. If I were going by just what the fabric could support, I’d suspect it’s a lot more. But to be honest, it’s your shoulders and back that will give out, given the backpack’s barely there straps and non-existent frame, before the fabric itself does.

• Unless you’re seriously committed to “ultralight” living or have minimalist aspirations in your day-to-day life, the Hyperlite Summit probably isn’t going to be your daily carry backpack. The Summit’s eye-opening weight (or lack thereof) also means you’ll have to forego common amenities like pockets, laptop sleeves, padded shoulder straps—pretty much anything you’d expect in a regular backpack. Like a bootlegger taking everything out of a Model 18 to make it lighter and faster, the Summit is about as stripped down as a backpack can get without removing the shoulder straps entirely. Is it a flaw? I don’t know. Is it a flaw that a moonshiner’s car doesn’t have passenger seats?
• One thing we would like to see however, especially for the price, is a better warranty. If you’re buying a backpack made from one of the strongest fibers in the world for several hundred dollars, it seems that it would deserve slightly stronger protections.
• Material: Dyneema Fiber
• Size: 30 liters
• Weight: 0.8 pound (in white), 1.0 pound (in black)
• Warranty: one year repair, replacement, or refund

In truth, very few people need a backpack this tough or this pricey. Packs like these, especially models from the most expensive brands, are almost exclusively the realm of obsessives or people who find a certain comfort in being vastly (some might say ludicrously) overprepared for most moments in life, whether they’re commuting, hiking, flying, or running an obstacle course.

There’s an allure to buying the “one good thing” and never having to think about it again. Still, a $70 JanSport backpack is, to some extent, also a buy-it-for-life backpack. Although the durability of a JanSport bag doesn’t come close to that of our picks above, the company has a much-respected lifetime replacement warranty . Buying a backpack from JanSport is a guarantee—if you don’t mind navigating the warranty process and you act in good faith—that you will own a string of backpacks, each replacing the last as they wear out.

But a true buy-it-for-life backpack should not wear out except in the toughest of circumstances. Something failing on one of these bags should be a surprise, not an inevitability.

We considered 25 bags with a reputation for rugged and tough construction. We also required them to be comfortable, not overly militaristic or covered in MOLLE webbing (so as to fit into most activities without drawing too much attention), able to carry at least a 13-inch laptop in a dedicated sleeve, and covered by a lifetime warranty (ideally a repair-and-replace warranty). It has become shorthand to call these types of backpacks “tactical” or “mil-spec,” though we try to avoid those terms. At best, the terms are meaningless, intended to conjure the strength and mystique of military gear. (Ironically, such so-called military-grade gear is often famously disparaged within the armed services.) These are tough backpacks built to last a lifetime. That’s all they are.

We narrowed the field of considered bags to 10 for testing by looking at online reviews, reputation, and price. In the course of working on this guide, and over the many years we’ve spent covering bag design, we’ve also leaned on the general information we’ve picked up while reading group forums and sites dedicated to buy-it-for-life items or EDC (everyday carry) enthusiasm, such as r/BuyItForLife , r/backpacks , Carryology , Gear Patrol , and Matterful .

To test the bags, I packed and unpacked them and used them as much as possible in my day-to-day life. Admittedly, for this first round of research some of that testing was hampered by quarantining during the pandemic, so I did much of this testing by hiking around the mountains and beaches of Hawaii and doing things that more or less emulated real-life situations—a trip to the office, for example, became a trip to a waterfall.

While living with each bag, I tried to take a careful look at every aspect that contributes to a well-made backpack. Specifically, I focused on the following:

• Construction and materials: Most bags in this category are made from a strong nylon Cordura or ripstop composite fabric. I paid special attention to the material’s weight, weave, and heft, as well as to any special modifications such as TPU or other waterproof coatings.
• Ease and accessibility: How easy is the bag to pack, unpack, and otherwise access while you’re on the move and in everyday situations? What if you’re unpacking it at your desk, say, or reaching inside it to get something while it’s sitting beneath a table? Does the bag have external pockets? Are they well organized and well placed for most people as they carry the bag? In addition to asking these questions, I paid close attention to the main compartment’s layout and access.
• Comfort: Most of these types of bags are so heavily constructed that they take a while to break in. For some people, this process of wearing in a bag is part of the appeal. That said, all the bags we chose (an exception here for the ultralight pick , which depends entirely on how you pack it) should be comfortable enough to carry over long distances straight out of the box. We liked any shoulder strap system that was simple to adjust—an uncomplicated design with few extra buckles or components to break. However, none of the bags we tested are as adjustable as a traditional hiking backpack; these are still basic backpacks in that sense. Also, not all backpacks are built to fit every torso, so we appreciated any brand that offered more than one size of the same model of bag.
• Weight: Often, the stronger a bag is, the heavier it is. We found no exceptions to this rule among the 25 models we considered. That said, we tried to find bags that weighed less than 4 pounds empty.
• Warranty: Many bag companies offer a “lifetime” warranty, but not all companies stand by those guarantees equally. For bags this expensive—items that you might “buy for life”—we expected a true lifetime commitment to replace (or, ideally, repair) any model we considered. Only one, the ultralight pick, doesn’t meet this requirement, and it’s a strong knock against it. Where possible, we researched customer complaints or success stories of filing a warranty or repair claim, and we stuck with companies that had a track record we trusted. We also gave extra attention to companies that repaired their own work, bringing bags back to their manufacturing center to fix them.

We’re going to take a look at Mission Workshop gear in the spring—especially the Rhake and Radian models, as much for their eye-popping price as their burly construction.

We’re also taking a closer look at the Aer X-Pac Collection . Aer makes several of our picks in other categories. And the company’s new use of X-Pac cloth pushes several of its designs into a robust enough category—especially the small travel bag —that they could be a lifelong bag for some people.

In this price range, nearly every bag we tested is a good, if not great, bag. If any of the bags below catch your eye, and you don’t mind the drawbacks we mention, your bag of choice should serve you well.

Evergoods Civic Panel Loader : This bag is resoundingly fine, but we found ourselves wanting a bit more from the bag every step of the way—a bit more support in the straps, a bit more capacity, a bit more durability. Of those drawbacks, the most concerning was the overall capacity. We do like the internal organization options; if you tend to not carry that much in your life and like the bag’s minimal looks, it might be a good choice.

Mission Workshop Sanction : The Sanction is let down by its lack of access, as it has just a single roll-top flap that opens into a frustratingly small central compartment. For the price, there are plenty of bags that offer the same amount of space and durability, plus better access, and although the Topo Designs pack is likewise hindered, it’s substantially less expensive.

Peak Design Everyday Backpack : We’re fans of Peak Design gear; it’s well made, backed by an honest lifetime warranty, and uniquely designed. The Everyday Backpack is designed first for photographers to customize a backpack around their photography kit—with Velcro panels that you can adjust throughout the main compartment—and as an everyday-carry backpack second. We like the access, as it’s top-loading, with two zippers running down either side, all opening to the main compartment. If you want a lightweight camera backpack, this one is good, but despite Peak Design’s lifetime warranty, we’re not convinced that this model has the durability to be a backpack you can expect to drag through tough environments.

Tortuga Outbreaker Laptop Backpack : Like all Tortuga gear, the Outbreaker appears to be built first for travel—in this case, as an underseat personal item. It’s more or less a diminutive version of the company’s larger travel backpack. Tortuga makes most of its gear with ripstop nylon, a strong but crinkly fabric that makes a bit of noise, which is fine for travel gear but might get irritating with something you’re opening and closing multiple times every day. The Outbreaker does have the most “admin”—built-in organizational panels for pens, paperwork, and other small items—of any model we tested for this guide. The shoulder pads are well padded, too, as you might expect on a bag meant for travel. Ultimately, we just didn’t want to carry this bag every day.

Triple Aught Axiom S2 VX Pack : This was one of our top picks, but the Axiom has been out of stock for years now. That said, if you can find the Triple Aught used, know that it’s still a tough-as-nails bag made from high-tech fabrics and designed with plenty of organization.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Meet your guide

Kit Dillon is a senior staff writer at Wirecutter. He was previously an app developer, oil derrick inspector, public-radio archivist, and sandwich shop owner. He has written for Popular Science, The Awl, and the New York Observer, among others. When called on, he can still make a mean sandwich.

Further reading

Wirecutter’s Favorite Bags, Totes, Backpacks and Carryalls

by Truth Headlam

Whether you’re going to school, work, the gym, the store, or on vacay, you need a bag. Here’s the Wirecutter-recommended carrying gear we love most.

The Best Travel Backpack

by Geoffrey Morrison

For trips ranging from a week to multiple months, the Osprey Farpoint 55 and Fairview 55 carried everything we needed comfortably.

The Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks

by Kit Dillon

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is our backpack pick for most travelers. We also have picks for other travelers, including those who want to carry a bit more.

The Best Backpacks for College and High School Students

by Zoe Vanderweide

Our top backpack picks for the 2023-2024 school year include a sporty-looking ergonomic pack, a bag that’s nostalgic and timeless, and a polished workhorse.

How to travel by bicycle in Russia: ideas and suggestions

• April 15, 2021
• Last updated: April 19, 2021
• Adventure , Destinations , Outdoor , Russia

Home » Travel Blog » How to travel by bicycle in Russia: ideas and suggestions

Day trips in Russia

Newcomers can test their “strength” on a one-day trip – the roads should not be complicated and the distances should not be too long. For first-time riders, study the route carefully, taking into account not only the length of the road, but also the conditions: there should be no long climbs and no high mountain passes. The flatter the road, the better. Do not ride close to crowded and busy large traffic lanes, even if conditions permit.  Also, make sure carry your Russian invitation letter with your visa . 

Route: Levutov – Pavlovsky town

Distance: 65 km

From Reutov (metro station “Novokosino”) outside Moscow, via Saltykovsk, Zheleznodorozhny, Fedurnovo, then turn to Biserovo, to Staraya Kupavna, then to Elektrostal via Ivashevo, and finally to Pavlovsky Posad via Subbotino, the intercity electric train This is a good route for newcomers to the town of Pavlovsky Posad (Vokhna or Pavlovsky Posad station).

This route is good for beginners: the terrain remains almost unchanged throughout the route. It’s mainly asphalt, but it’s quiet, with a rural landscape and few cars. Also, there are many intercity train stations along the way – if you get tired, you can take the train back to Moscow.

For the uninitiated, there are plenty of suitable roads around Moscow. The entire Moscow region is dotted with railway lines, so it is not necessary to make a circular route. You can take an intercity train to one station and back from another. There are many convenient route options around most Russian cities. You can make your own route, or take the advice of experienced travelers and use an already prepared route map.

Two-day trips in Russia

If you can travel 60-70 km per day, it’s no problem and you’ll be able to ride for two days. First of all, you need to solve your overnight problem: will you stay in a hotel, borrow a private house or pitch your own tent? Be sure to take the weather into account and take extra things that will keep you warm or heated.

When choosing your route, add some “hills” on the way, but not too steep.

Keep an eye on your bike. Ideally, it should be carefully checked and tested two days before departure; if you don’t know much about bike parts, you should have a full “car check” at a good mechanic’s shop to remove all faults in time.

Read more inspiring articles:

• Cycling Medieval Towns in Costa Brava And The Pyrenees
• Train Travel in Europe with Interrail
• Packing List for Europe: The Ultimate Preparation Guide
• Best Hikes in the World: Europe
• Cycling In Costa Brava: All You Need To Know To Plan Your Trip
• Hiking in Portugal: Some of the Best Trails

Route: ride along Nizhny Novgorod and rest on the Volga

Distance: 140 km

This is a self-guided route with picturesque Volga forests, where you will have to pitch a tent on the road overnight. You don’t have to think about the schedule of electric trains or buses, even if you are delayed on the way, don’t worry.

From Nizhny Novgorod, you will pass through the town of Bor (you can cross the Volga by cable car). Next, head to Ivanovskoye. On the way, note the unique, interlocking bi-level railroad: it is no longer in use, but the original structure is still there. Then go in the direction of Yurasovo, where you will turn to Maloye Utkino, then to Beryozovka, to Vypolzovo, then to the Volga River, to Apraksino, passing through the hill fortress with its ancient earthen embankment. Hillfort, which retains its ancient earthen berm.

After that, follow Orlovo, Belkino, Yamnovo, Zavrazhnoye, Selishi. After passing through Zhukovka, you can go straight through the forest to the bank of the Volga River and find a place to pitch your tent.

The next day, go in the direction of Pumra, then through Vagankovo, Orekhovo, Markovo, turn left at Matveyevka, go to Vatoma, then through Put’kovo and back to the banks of the Volga, then to the town of Pol, and then to Nizhny Novgorod.

There are many suitable two-day rides in the Volga Valley, around the Voronezh region, around the cities along the Golden Ring and in the Crimean steppe.

Multi-day rides in Russia

Riding for several days in a row is a very serious matter and you need to be physically prepared. For the first time, choose a route that is not too difficult and not extreme, because riding a few days in a row is not at all the same as riding 100 km in a week. Please estimate that it is more comfortable to travel 70-80 km per day on the plains and with much less hills.

Check to see if there are any settlements along the way – it depends on whether you’ll be carrying a lot of food, or if you can buy all your food along the way. But whenever and wherever you go, make sure you have drinking water on you. Please do not forget to constantly replenish your supplies and have an emergency reserve – about 1.5 liters of water per person. 

Route: “Crimean coast: from Kerch to Alushta”

Distance: 270 km , 5-7 days

We have intentionally divided the trip on this route into several days, as it depends a lot on your fitness and desire to visit the sights – which will be seen on the way, and quite a lot of them. There will be some mountain passes – if you feel tired as you pass them, it is always possible to set up camp early and prepare for an overnight stay. Almost the entire road runs along the coastline. If you don’t want to pitch a tent, you can easily find a place to spend the night in the resort.

Get off the ferry to Kerch and head directly to the Feodossia steppe. Pass through the town of Ordzhonikidze and head to Koktebel. Be prepared for a long and tiring uphill climb. If you don’t want to tire yourself out that much, then sacrifice some of the scenic views and take a different route – along the Simferopol highway.

From Koktebeli there is a difficult mountain road leading to Sudak. The strongest will can cycle to the town of “Novyi Svit” in one day, while the rest of the people should go to the village of Morske and then to Alushta via Rybache and Malorichens’ke. From Alushta, you can take a bicycle and a trolleybus to Simferopol, from where you can return by plane or return to Kerch by bus or taxi.

Pack & travel:

• The Best Carry On Travel Backpack: A Practical Guide
• Tep Wireless Review: a Portable WiFi Hotspot For Travelers
• Best Walking Shoes For Women
• Best Rain Jacket for Any Travel Needs
• Best Backpacking Tent: The Ultimate Guide
• Vivobarefoot Stealth II: A Detailed Review

Guest Contributor

• Published: April 15, 2021

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