travel backpack foldable

10 Best Foldable Travel Bag: Roomy And Packable

Foldable travel bags are a must for any frequent traveler who packs light. They can fit into the pocket of your jacket, but have a capacity of at least 25 liters when unfolded. This means you’re able to go a little crazy on your trip and buy everything you want, without worrying about how you will fit it into your suitcase.

In this detailed review, you will see ten awesome foldable travel bags. Some are tote bags, others are duffel bags and I’ve also found two awesome foldable backpacks. And there are two really unique bags that might just be my favorite of them all!

At A Glance: Best Foldable Travel Bags

• Best Underseat Foldable Travel Bag Samsonite Foldaway Tote Sling Jump To Review
• Best Foldable Backpack Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack Jump To Review
• Best Compact Foldable Duffel Samsonite Foldaway Duffel Jump To Review
• Bug Travel Duffel Bag Bug Travel Duffel Bag Jump To Review
• Best Foldable Toiletry Bag Kaome 2 in 1 Hanging Toiletry Bag Jump To Review

Read on to see if they’re your favorites as well – if not, there are plenty of other foldable travel bags for you!

Top Product Overview

Top products, samsonite foldaway tote sling.

The Samsonite foldable tote is a great option for travel because it is an underseat tote bag . It’s small which makes a great addition to a carry on suitcase. On top of that, this bag is made from some really sturdy polyester , and it is going to last you a lot longer than a no-name bag with loose stitching.

In general, the materials that this bag is made from really are top-of-the-line, and that is why it’s the best under seat tote you can get.

The external pockets are noteworthy too – there’s a zippered one, and two open pockets, so there’s plenty of room for items you want to have easily accessible. And that’s in addition to the main compartment, which features a zippered closure.

There is one other zippered pocket inside the bag, and that’s it. But, the four pockets of the Samsonite are still a lot more than you will get on most other foldable totes. And the best thing is that this tote costs next to nothing, which is very affordable for such a great and established brand.

One downside of the bag is there are only two grab handles, so you can either sling them over your shoulder or carry them in your hand – like with any regular tote bag. I would have loved to see a longer shoulder strap on the bag, which would allow you to carry it like a crossbody bag.

• Fits under airplane seats
• Very durable exterior
• Four pockets total
• You can only carry it like a tote
• Does not have a luggage strap

Product Information

• Dimensions: 5.9” x 12.59” x 15.35”
• Weight: 10.4 oz
• Materials: 600 Denier PU

Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack

No foldable bag is quite as good as the Osprey Foldable Stuff Pack . The brand is one of the best backpack on the market, and all of their products are high quality . So, if you really want the best foldable backpack, this is the one to get.

The pack is made from durable ripstop nylon  with decent water resistance. It is incredibly lightweight at only 3 ounces, and it’s a carry-on sized backpack, so it’s great for travel. Plus, with a capacity of 18 liters, you will have more than enough room for all your must-have necessities.

The thing I love the most about this pack is that it still has ventilated shoulder straps for your carrying comfort. This is more than you will see on most other backpacks, so it’s already easy to see why Osprey just wipes out the competition.

With dual zippers, you have access to the main compartment from different sides of the backpack. This makes it easily accessible, no matter where you put it in the backpack.

There are a total of three external pockets (two open, one zippered), meaning there’s enough room for all those extra items you want handy at all times.

The only downside of this backpack is that it doesn’t have internal pockets, so organization will be a bit of a challenge. But that problem is easily solved with packing cubes, removable organization panels, and your own laptop sleeve.

• Breathable mesh on the harness
• Multiple external pockets
• Sternum strap not included
• No internal pockets
• Dimensions: 17” x 9” x 7”
• Weight: 3.04 oz
• Materials: Ripstop nylon

Samsonite Foldaway Duffel

Samsonite’s Foldaway Duffel is from the same collection as their foldable tote above. I don’t want to be too repetitive, but if you really want the best foldable travel bag that you can get your hands on, Samsonite is one of the safest options.

The duffel is constructed from 600D PU – a very thick polyester fabric, that is super durable and sturdy. There is also nylon lining on the inside, so the bag has double water-resistant protection. This bag also has both a pair of grab handles and a long shoulder strap, which is rare.

There is one pocket on the outside and another on the inside of the bag that it can fold itself into. And the bag has two extra open pockets that are great for items you want to have easy access to.

In addition to that, the main compartment of this bag is extra roomy and is perfect for fitting in all those souvenirs you bought on your trip.

This is actually a carry-on bag, but not an underseat one. You would have to commit to this as your main carry-on item, so remember that if you plan to pack a carry-on suitcase.

The main downside of this foldable travel bag is the price point. It’s not ridiculously expensive, but it is pricier than most other foldable duffels you will see in the rest of the review. However, this bag does have several features you won’t find on those cheaper bags, and it is made from really durable materials, so it’s definitely worth it.

• Sturdy materials
• Adjustable shoulder straps
• Pricier than other foldable duffels
• Not an underseat bag
• Dimensions: 8.26” x 11.81” x 21.65”
• Weight: 0.83 lbs

Bug Travel Duffel Bag

The Bug travel duffel bag is certainly a unique option. It’s not like any other bag you will see in this review, which is why it deserves to be so high up. It is made from a rather thick, waterproof material , so it’s not going to be as thin and lightweight as most of the other bags you will see in this review.

But those bags won’t be nearly as functional or as good as this one. With durable grab handles, a sturdy shoulder strap, and a trolley sleeve in the back, the Bug duffel is just like any other premium duffel bag you can get – with the advantage of being foldable, that is.

This bag doesn’t actually fold into its own pocket, which is why it’s interesting. It’s more like a jigsaw puzzle – the sidewalls of the bag can all be detached, and then folded one over the other. And those walls are full of different zippered and slip pockets so that you can easily stay organized while you’re traveling.

In fact, the duffel has a total of 7 pockets, in addition to a very roomy main compartment. Depending on the size of the bag that you pick up, it’s either going to have a 30 liter or a 50-liter capacity. The difference in the price between the two is less than $10, so I doubt that’s going to be the deciding factor in which one you get.

But the sizing probably will – be sure to check out the exact dimensions of both bags, in order to be absolutely certain you are getting a travel bag that you will wind up using very often.

• Unique design
• Waterproof materials
• Lots of internal pockets for easy organization
• Bulkier and heavier than most other foldable bags
• Dimensions: 19.6” x 9” x 10” (30-liter bag)
• Weight: 2.6 lbs (30-liter bag)
• Materials: Waterproof fabric

Kaome 2 in 1 Hanging Toiletry Bag

Here’s another really unique foldable travel bag to consider. The Kaome bag is a hanging toiletry bag , with an abundance of different compartments and pockets that are really great for travel. It’s an awesome bag to have at the hotel room or an AirBnB, where you never have enough room for your toiletries. Ladies with an established skincare routine definitely know what I’m talking about.

The really cool thing about this bag is that some compartments are removable, so you can actually adjust the size and capacity of this foldable bag to suit your needs perfectly. If you remove some of the compartments, the bag is immediately lighter and more packable.

Plus, the two separate compartments have different uses – the detachable one can actually work as a packing cube or a makeup case. The part of the bag that has four sections is great for all your other toiletries, and it even has elastic bands, so that you can attach your phone and watch the news, while you’re trying to make yourself look decent in the mornings.

This is definitely not as lightweight as the foldable totes and duffels that are made from a single sheet of poly, but it’s about a hundred times more functional than them. Plus, you can actually fold this bag two different ways – one turns it into a slim briefcase and the other makes it the size of a purse, so it will still easily fit into your other travel bag.

The Kaome foldable bag is perfect for people who are looking for something that will help them with organization, and not simply a ‘just in case’ bag.

• Excellent for organized travellers
• Versatile use
• Not very packable
• Capacity isn’t really big
• Dimensions: 11.4" x 45” (entirely unrolled)
• Weight: 14.4 oz
• Materials: Water resistant 300D Oxford

Travelon Packable Folding Tote Bag

The Travelon folding travel bag is another great option if you’re looking for a tote. It is made from polyester ripstop , which has decent water resistance. But the bag does not have any additional coating, so don’t expect it to be entirely waterproof.

This tote has a spacious main compartment with zipper closure, and it can fit quite a lot of stuff inside. The high capacity is an upside for sure, but the big size of the bag is definitely a downside. The Travelon folding bag is too big to be an underseat bag, so you would have to choose this as your main piece of carry-on luggage. And I don’t think it’s a great option for that.

The main reason for that is the devastating lack of pockets. There’s a single zippered pocket on the outside of the bag, and that’s it. That is the same pocket that the bag folds into when not in use.

But there is something you will like about this bag – the really long grab handles. They are very comfortable for carrying the bag on one shoulder, mostly because you get that extra space so you can put it over bulkier winter clothing.

And you’ll also like that this comes with a trolley sleeve , so you are able to mount it on top of a large suitcase. That’s great for traveling with multiple pieces of luggage since it frees up one of your arms entirely.

In addition to that, this is a good option if you want an affordable folding bag. You can get it for as little as some $15, which is pretty great.

• Lightweight and affordable
• Trolley sleeve in the back
• Extra long grab handles
• Not many pockets
• Exterior is not fully waterproof
• Dimensions: 5.5” x 19” x 15”
• Weight: 4.8 oz
• Materials: Polyester ripstop

TUMI - Voyageur Just In Case Backpack

If you want a premium foldable travel backpack, then Tumi is one of the best options out there. All of their bags are made from high-quality materials , including the Voyager backpack. So, there’s no doubt that you will own this backpack for a long time, and it’s a great choice if you know that you will frequently use it.

But is it actually worth the money? Honestly, no. It’s way too expensive for what it is, but the same can be said about most of Tumi luggage . And you can sense where I’m getting at – it’s all about the branding, and what it means for you to carry a Tumi item. So, if you want to show off and let everyone know that price is never an object, then by all means pick up this awesome pack.

It also doesn’t hurt that this foldable bag is so stylish that it doesn’t even look like it folds down into a tiny pouch. It is a really cute backpack that you could actually carry everywhere, especially when traveling with luggage restrictions.

This travel backpack features a single zippered pocket on the outside and double zipper access to the main compartment. It’s a pretty small backpack, and it will actually fit under most airplane seats, so it’s a great bag to have in addition to a carry-on suitcase.

Another great thing about it is that it features a luggage strap in the back, which makes it super easy to move around with multiple pieces of luggage.

• Underseat backpack
• Very durable materials
• Dimensions: 15.5" x 12.3" x 4.5"
• Weight: 0.6 lbs
• Materials: Nylon

WANDF Foldable Travel Duffel Bag

This foldable duffel is a great option for you that need a quick and cheap solution. It costs about $10, which is a bargain for a bag with 25 liters of capacity . The duffel is a pretty good carry-on – it will fit in overhead compartments of all airplanes, but it won’t always qualify as an underseat bag.

This travel bag is made from water-resistant material, and it is a great bag to just throw in your suitcase, just in case. But it’s not remarkably durable – the material is pretty thin, and zippers are a no-name brand, so don’t expect this bag to last you years. But honestly, that’s fair for the price – you will get your money’s worth even if you use this bag just 5-6 times.

The Wandf foldable duffel is available in a wide variety of different colors, so there are plenty of options for everyone. It has two sturdy grab handles  but lacks the really long shoulder strap you get on most other duffels.

The bag has an external zippered pocket , which is great for stuff you want to have easily accessible. That’s actually the pocket the bag folds into, and it is the only pocket on the bag. The cool thing about it is that it actually doubles as a luggage strap since the top and bottom of the pocket aren’t sewn onto the bag.

The Wandf foldable duffel might not be the best or most functional option out there, but it’s a great affordable option. If you know that you won’t use a foldable bag too often, but want to have something just in case, this duffel is as good an option as any.

• Very affordable
• Wide color variety
• Features a luggage strap
• No long shoulder strap
• Not very high quality
• Dimensions: 17.7” x 12.6” x 6.3” 
• Weight: 7.1 lbs
• Materials: Water resistant fabric

Travel Lite Foldable Backpack

The Travel Lite Foldable backpack is an awesome option for people who want something affordable but very functional . Backpacks are usually the most versatile option because they’re great for almost everything, from the plane to the hiking trail.

This foldable backpack has ventilated shoulder straps, so it is pretty comfortable to wear. There’s one zippered pocket on the outside, as well as two stretchy side pockets that can fit a water bottle each.

One thing I really like about this foldable travel bag is that it is actually really good quality for the price. The seams are really well sewn , and they will not come apart easily. And the fabric the bag is made from is water-resistant and will keep all your belongings dry in light rain. The zippers are the only thing I’m not a huge fan of since they are kind of flimsy.

The really cool thing about this foldable travel bag is that you can wear it like both a backpack and a tote . Just fold the top part of the bag inside the bottom, and you get a cute little tote that you can just sling over one shoulder. And you can even turn it into a small purse – you will just need a cute, thin shoulder strap.

If you want to fully fold this down, just stuff everything in that front zippered pocket. That’s a lot of versatility and function for some $10, so it’s a pretty great bag even if it’s not the best quality out there.

Pro-tip – the pink version of this travel bag is slightly see-through, so avoid that one if you want to keep the contents of your bag a mystery. The other three colors are entirely opaque.

• Can be worn as a backpack, purse and tote
• Water resistant exterior
• Really affordable
• Zippers are a bit flimsy
• Dimensions: (backpack) 14.6” x 5.9” x 17.7”

Narwey Foldable Travel Duffle Bag Tote

If you want a foldable travel bag that doesn’t actually look like one, the Narwey Duffel Bag is a really good option. Its exterior is made from durable nylon , which is colored and looks really good. The bag is water-resistant, and it will keep the items inside dry in some light rain. On top of that, the zippers on the bag are actually really sturdy and smooth – a really good feature for a $15 bag!

This duffel is kind of big, but it is carry-on sized. It won’t be accepted as an underseat bag on most airlines though – Spirit and Frontier are the only two that will qualify the bag as a personal item.

There is one zippered pocket on the duffel, which is actually the same pocket the bag folds into. It is pretty big, so great for items you want to have easily accessible. And it doubles as a luggage sleeve since it is not fully sewn onto the bag.

One thing I really like about this foldable travel bag is that a longer shoulder strap is included in the purchase. You can carry this in your hands, or you could sling it over your shoulders. The important thing is that you do have the option, which isn’t the case with some other, cheaper bags.

The total capacity of this bag is 30 liters , which is pretty good for a carry-on bag. Especially since the capacity of an average carry-on suitcase isn’t really much more than that.

• Water and tear resistant exterior
• Large capacity
• Very few airlines will qualify it as a personal item
• Dimensions: 17” x 14” x 7”
• Weight: 11.6 oz

What To Look For

What kind of bag.

Collapsible travel bags have one thing in common – they pack down into one of their pockets so that they can fit into the pocket when you’re not using them. But once you unpack them you want – a backpack, a duffel bag , or a simple tote?

Foldable bags come in many different shapes, so it’s important to know what exactly you want from one. I’ve included backpacks, totes, and duffel bags , as these three are the most common types of foldable travel bags that exist.

Duffel bags are the best option if you’re prioritizing high capacity . You will often find foldable duffels that have a capacity of more than 50 liters, which is perfect for people who have to carry a lot of gear while they’re traveling.

On the other hand, backpacks are the best option if you want a bag that’s really easy to carry . They’re perfect for people who want to have full use of their hands while they’re out and about in their travels, and they give you the option of carrying some really heavy items, without actually feeling their full weight.

Totes are somewhere in between backpacks and duffels. They usually have pretty high capacities due to the shape, but with the same organizational capability, you get in a backpack. One, maybe two pockets, and that’s it. They’re the best option for ladies who are used to carrying a tote bag and want to get something that will actually look okay with their outfits, and not like a scrunched-up piece of nylon.

And I included a couple of very unique foldable bags, which aren’t really the first thing that comes to mind when you think of a packable bag. If you’re willing to experiment and want something extra durable and sturdy, I highly recommend you pick up one of those.

Materials And Durability

Most of the bags featured here are made from either polyester or nylon because those two materials are perfect for these bags. They are lightweight , packable, pretty durable, and very easy to maintain.

Nylon is generally a bit more durable than polyester, but that’s not always the case – it heavily depends on the thickness of the material , as well as whether or not a bag has any additional water repellent coating.

The best bags are made from really thick nylon/polyester (400D and up), and will at least be water-resistant.

Additionally, I did include a couple of bags that are made from other materials – these are sturdier, but not as lightweight or packable as the poly/nylon ones.

So, think about what you’re prioritizing – packability or durability ? If you’re okay with a bag that’s a bit heavier but still foldable, then consider going for one of the unique choices I’ve featured.

It’s fair to say that almost all of the bags featured here are affordable . Sure, some are cheaper than others, but the vast majority of the foldable travel bags are under $30. Meaning that you don’t have to spend a lot of money if you want to get a foldable Samsonite bag.

I did include some pricier options, but those are for a very specific type of traveler. And I’ve also included some really cheap options, for people who don’t really care about the features of a particular foldable bag – they just want something they can throw in the suitcase, and which won’t take up a lot of space in the luggage.

So, there are options on both sides of the spectrum. But the vast majority of the bags are in the middle of it, with a price point that is considered affordable by most people.

Best Foldable Travel Bag: Our Top Choices

Not quite sure which of these foldable travel bags is the right for you? Go with one of our favorite bags then – there’s one in each category!

The best foldable duffel bag would have to be the Bug Travel Duffel . The unique design is just amazing, and it without a doubt outperforms all of the other duffels in this review. And not just because of the incredibly sturdy and durable materials, but because of the abundance of pockets, you get on the bag.

That, compared to the one zippered pocket of most other duffels, is reason enough to pick up the Bug.

• LARGE DUFFEL BAG: The size of this duffel is 19.6”(L) X 9”(w) X 10”(H), about 30 L, 1 big and 7 small pockets totally. With its large space and functional design, you can take a lot of things on your trip;
• UNIQUE DESIGN: We use integrated zipper design which is foldable after you pushing the zippers open completely. You can just put it in your luggage and take out when you need to carry more things, very portable;

If you would prefer a foldable backpack , then go with Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack . The brand is known for manufacturing outstanding backpacks, and this is without a doubt the best foldable backpack you can get your hands on.

The ripstop nylon is really durable, while the ventilated harness will keep you cool on hot, sweaty days. And the pack has several external pockets, which will help you organize some of your smaller belongings.

• Premium efficiency and design
• Storage tuned to the each season

In case you’re looking for a simple foldable travel tot e, your best option is the Samsonite Tote . It’s made from really thick polyester and it is lined on the inside, so it is much more durable than the cheaper alternatives.

Plus, the tote has several external pockets , so you will be able to have some items easily accessible at all times. And it is an underseat bag, so you can bring it on a plane in addition to your carry-on suitcase.

• Constructed of sturdy 600 denier PU
• Large main opening easily stores all extra souvenirs acquired during travel

Those are the top three foldable travel bags we recommend. Head over to Amazon to see the prices and color options of all the bags featured in this review.

If you’re thinking that a foldable bag might not be the way to go, check out our related posts for more ideas on great travel bags!

RELATED POSTS:

BEST CARRY ON BACKPACKS BEST TOTE BAGS FOR TRAVEL  BEST TRAVEL BACKPACKS FOR MEN 

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The 15 Best Packable Backpacks for Travel [2023]

Amar Hussain

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Things To Consider With Packable Backpacks

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Lightweight, foldable, and perfect for stashing in your travel bag, a packable backpack offers all the space you need for days trips and other excursions.

Made from strong and waterproof material, these little backpacks can hold up to 35 liters of your most essential items and can be folded up into their own zippered pocket or pouch when not in use.

The best daypack for your everyday adventures will be the one that best suits your individual requirements. Before you buy, consider the following:

Daypacks aren’t designed to carry all the clothing you need for a week away, but they should offer enough space to carry an extra layer or 2, as well as your water bottle , tablet , and other essentials .

Most daypacks offer between 15 and 25 liters of useful storage space , and although they are basic, they still come with zippered pockets and inner compartments.

Your daypack may be lightweight, but it should still be strong enough to be able to hold your laptop, books, and other heavier items without weighing you down.

In order to fold up nice and compact, your daypack will need to be made of thin and flexible material. On that basis, it will also be much lighter than your regular backpack or carry-on .

When it comes to daypacks, the lighter, the better, so look for bags that weigh less than 8 ounces when empty . Some ultralight models may even weigh as little as 3 ounces, making them an excellent choice for more extreme adventurers.

Portability

The very notion of a packable backpack is that you can fold it up nice and small and stash it away when not in use. All of the lightweight backpacks we have chosen can either be folded up and popped into their own separate travel pouch or folded in on themselves to fit into a zippered pocket.

Basic design doesn’t have to be impractical, and all of our favorite packable backpacks come complete with additional pockets to keep your gear well-organized. With zippered external pockets, you can enjoy quick and easy access to your most used items, while internal pouches and pockets let you keep your valuables safe.

Bottom Line: As these backpacks are most commonly used when you are out exploring, they almost always come with dedicated mesh water bottle pockets on the sides.

Shoulder Straps

Despite their feather-light dimensions, a good, packable backpack should be a comfortable carry, even when full. Some come with breathable mesh straps , while others are lightly padded. Some more advanced models may also come with a sternum strap to help evenly distribute the weight of your belongings while you walk.

The 15 Best Packable Backpac ks for Travel

Osprey ultralight stuff pack.

Made from 40D ripstop nylon fabric, this awesome backpack from the big boys at Osprey is a must-have for outdoor adventurers.

The innovative, ultralight construction means that it can be tucked away into its very own stuff pack, no larger than the size of an apple.

The deluxe AirMesh harness offers a comfortable carry, even when full . The zippered stash pocket, stretch mesh pocket, and internal security pocket make this an awesome way to carry your essentials when you don’t want to take up extra room in your luggage.

What We Like

• Perfect packable daypack for regular adventurers

What We Don’t Like

• It could be improved with a little extra support

The North Face Flyweight Packable Travel Backpack

The 60 g/m² nylon with Cordura ripstop construction makes this a super sturdy, but also incredibly lightweight, packable daypack.

The water-repellent (DWR) finish helps rainwater and moisture to roll right away from your belongings, and the versatile design can be packed up small into its own little pocket to throw in your travel bag on vacation.

A breathable mesh shoulder strap is comfortable to carry , and the zippered main compartment has enough space for all of your most essential items.

It has plenty of useful spaces for storing your most used items with 2 external stretch-mesh water bottle pockets and an additional pocket with top compression. Offering 17 liters of storage space in total, this daypack measures up at a compact yet practical 20 x 13.5 x 8.5 inches.

• Hugs the curve of your spine
• It feels a little fragile

Outlander 35L Lightweight Packable Daypack

Available in a selection of bold colors, this backpack has a well-organized design and is made from high-quality, tear- and water-resistant nylon fabric.

With a sizable 35-liter main compartment, it comes with heavy-duty zippers and extra stitching on the stress points, giving it a more durable design than some of its lighter-weight counterparts.

This daypack can be folded up small enough to snap back into its own storage pocket , and with innovative features such as a chest strap with a whistle buckle, an internal divider, and smaller zippered pockets, it offers plenty of practical storage.

• A durable and incredibly practical daypack
• 35 liters is a bit of a squeeze

Herschel Packable Casual Daypack

Coming in a supercool selection of colors and designs, this ultralightweight daypack is full of urban chic and practical storage space.

Measuring 17 x 12 x 5 inches, it has a sizable main zipper compartment and an additional internal self-storage pocket with a useful snap closure.

The 2-way exposed plastic zipper is sturdy and built to last through many adventures, and with a signature striped internal seam detail, this foldable daypack looks and feels like a high-quality piece of gear.

• Super lightweight and packable
• Not as durable as some of its competitors

TUMI – Voyageur Just In Case Backpack

Sleek and stylish, this lightweight daypack is made from strong, durable, and fully-lined nylon and is designed to fold completely flat for easy packing.

Perfect for shopping, day trips at the beach, or even on outdoor excursions, it has a practical and purposeful design and even comes with its own zipper pouch.

With internal and external pockets, adjustable shoulder straps, and a sleeve to slide over the handle of your spinner suitcase, it is a really useful accessory for everyday use.

• Folds up nice and small
• It’s not the biggest daypack out there

OneTrail 30L Packable Hiking Daypack

This little backpack is basic but brilliant, lightweight, and practical, and it’s a must-have for day trips and excursions. The ultralightweight design makes it easy and comfortable to carry , and the 30-liter capacity offers all the space you need for your every essential.

With a roomy main compartment, a front zipper, an internal pocket, and 2 extra mesh side pockets, it is easy to keep your belongings well-organized, and the adjustable mesh straps are easy to adjust to fit your size.

This is a superb little daypack for savvy travelers with the ability to be folded up into its own pocket when not in use.

• Compact to throw in your suitcase
• The zippers can get stuck on the zipper cover

NEEKFOX 35L Ultralight Daypack

Available in a range of super bold colorways, this little backpack comes with a matching pouch that will stand out on your travel bag.

Made from high-quality tear- and water-resistant materials , it is strong and sturdy and has bar-tacks at all the major stress points.

The breathable mesh shoulder straps with padding make it easy to carry, even when full, and the chest strap helps to evenly distribute the weight of your belongings.

The main compartment offers 35 liters of storage space, and it also comes with 2 further front zippered pockets and 2 side pockets.

• Folds up into its own zipper pocket
• The compression straps on the sides aren’t particularly strong

ZOMAKE Small Hiking Backpack

This multi-function backpack is made from water- and tear-resistant nylon material and comes in a choice of colorways.

Heavy-duty SBS metal zippers help ensure that it is built to last , and the innovative design can be folded in and zippered into its own pouch for easy transportation.

With a 25-liter capacity, you can easily carry a full day’s worth of essentials, and the mesh side pockets and exterior zipper pocket offer extra space for easy-to-reach items.

Adjustable shoulder straps make it comfortable to carry, even when full, and the high-quality construction makes this an excellent choice for day trips, shopping outings, and adventures in the great outdoors.

• The heavy-duty feel
• It does feel quite small

4Monster Hiking Daypack

Coming in a choice of eye-catching metallic colorways, this supercool little daypack is perfect for the practical and stylish traveler.

Weighing in at just 4 pounds, it is super lightweight, yet the tear- and water-resistant 30D nylon is strong enough to carry all of your essentials . Easy to fold up when not in use, it comes with a main zipper pocket, a front zipper pocket, and 2 mesh side pockets.

Adjustable shoulder straps make it easy to carry, and the backpack can be compressed into its own zipper pocket that is small enough to be slipped into your own coat pocket.

• Gives some of the more expensive models a run for their money
• Some of the colors are a little see-through

HIKPRO 20L Daypack

Lightweight and foldable, this awesome little daypack has a minimalist design and a lot of useful storage space.

It weighs just 7.5 ounces and feels light as a feather, and the roomy main compartment offers 20 liters of carrying space . There are 3 zippered compartments for your smaller items to help you stay organized, and the side mesh pockets make it easy to reach your items in transit.

Water-resistant, nice, and strong, this is a great choice for day trips, vacations, and hiking excursions.

• The strong and sturdy feel
• The mesh pockets are prone to developing holes

MIYCOO 45L Lightweight Packable Backpack

This backpack offers up to 45 liters of additional storage space, and the ultralightweight design makes it perfect for folding up and stashing in your carry bag or suitcase.

With 3 zippered compartments and a main compartment that is large and strong enough to carry your laptop and some clothes , it’s a great choice for day trips, and the inner zippered pocket is perfect for storing your valuables.

Water- and tear-resistant, this little backpack is suitable for use all year round, and the adjustable shoulder straps help to distribute the weight evenly on the move.

• Comes in a gorgeous selection of colors and designs
• Falls over easily as has no internal structure

Waterfly Lightweight Packable Hiking Backpack

This super lightweight daypack can be folded up and stored in its own built-in pouch — the perfect companion for day trips.

Perfect for when you are out and about, the nylon construction is water- and tear-proof , and the abrasion-resistant SBS zippers and reinforced stitching ensure that while it may be small, it is still incredibly strong and durable.

This model has a large main compartment, an outer smaller pocket, and an inner zippered pocket for valuables, and the adjustable shoulder straps help to evenly distribute the weight of your belongings.

• It’s an excellent emergency daypack at an affordable price
• Very little padding on the shoulder straps

Sinotron 22L Lightweight Packable Backpack

With contrasting zippers and attractive primary colorways, this cute little daypack is made from high-quality, water-resistant nylon fabric and comes with solid metal zippers for increased durability.

Offering 22 liters of storage space , it is large enough to carry your books, clothes, and even a laptop, and with side pockets and an external compartment, you can keep your drinks, and most used items close at hand.

The collapsible design lets you fold the backpack up into its own little pouch for easy transportation, and the breathable and adjustable mesh shoulder straps ensure it stays comfortable to carry, even when full.

• Bright and funky
• There are bigger options available if you need more space

Eddie Bauer Stowaway Packable 20L Daypack

Easy to carry and store, this foldable backpack is an essential and versatile go-anywhere accessory for days away from home.

The durable 200D ripstop polyester is tough enough to withstand the rigors of daily use , and the lightly padded mesh back panel will prevent it from feeling sweaty as you walk.

With mesh side pockets to hold your drink bottle, 3 external zip pockets, and an interior Velcro panel pocket, there is plenty of room to organize your stuff, and the 4 front lashing loops let you add extra accessories when you need to carry more.

• The über-trendy look
• Tends to bounce about a bit when you walk

Travsessed Anti-Theft Travel Backpack

This supercool little travel backpack comes with an RFID passport holder, wallet, and cell phone pouch that will help to keep your personal data protected on the go.

Offering an impressive 35 liters of storage space , it has a secure spot for laptops up to 16 inches, as well as extra pockets and compartments for your other essentials.

With deep mesh pockets for your water bottles and a key ring thrown in, this awesome travel backpack is perfect for day trips, overnight stays, and sightseeing tours.

The tough and durable ripstop nylon is tear- and waterproof, and when you are done using it, you can fold it up into its very own carry pouch.

• Versatile and durable
• It is a little pricey

A foldable backpack can be called on when what you need is a “less is more” solution. Lightweight, easy to carry, and even easier to store when not in use, these beauties offer all the practicality of a regular backpack without the weight.

Resistant to the elements, comfortable to carry, and designed to look anything but cheap, a packable backpack is a must-have item for sightseeing, shopping, beach trips, and day hikes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are packable backpacks.

As the name suggests, packable backpacks are bags that can be folded or rolled down and packed away in your main luggage. They are perfect for days out as they are lightweight and space-saving.

What is the capacity of a packable backpack?

Packable backpacks are mainly used as daypacks and will usually have a capacity of around 15 to 25 liters.

Are packable backpacks as comfortable as regular backpacks?

What you gain in portability you lose in comfort when it comes to packable backpacks versus regular backpacks. As they need to fold down and pack easily, they lack the padding on the back and straps that regular backpacks have.

What features should I look for in a packable backpack?

In addition to how small the backpack compresses down to, you should also look at organizational features, sternum straps, and breathability.

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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9 Brilliant Pieces of Collapsible Luggage for the Space-Challenged Traveler

The smartest thing you bring on vacation could be an empty suitcase. we’ve picked our favorite foldable travel bags so you can bring home more souvenirs..

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The lightweight Paravel Fold-Up Bag expands from a small pouch into a duffle that fits all your essentials for a weekend—and it only costs $75.

Courtesy of Paravel

That spontaneous vacation shopping spree boosted your wardrobe significantly, but it dramatically shrunk the free space in your suitcase. To avoid lugging home your new treasures in the paper sack they came in, plan ahead and pack a foldable travel bag.

These are our nine favorite pieces of collapsible luggage—including packable backpacks, totes, duffles, and even roller suitcases—that unfold to offer loads of additional space. Bonus? Many of these can also double as a daypack for when you’re out and about souvenir hunting.

The Away Packable Backpack is available in navy (seen here), as well as black and teal.

Courtesy of Away

1. The Away Packable Backpack

• Buy now: $75, awaytravel.com
• Style: Packable backpack
• Dimensions: 18.1 x 11 x 5.9 inches (7.1 x 4.7 x 2.4 inches packed)
• Capacity: 19 liters
• Weight: 8 oz.

Away launched its first line of packable bags in 2021, with an extra-large carry-all , a small sling bag , and our choice: the Packable Backpack . Constructed with 100 percent recycled water-resistant nylon, this backpack comes with lightly padded shoulder straps for comfort, a zippered interior pocket for organization, and buckle closures to keep your belongings secure. When you’re done, it folds up into a removable zip pouch and stashes away easily.

In addition to black, seen here, the Matador ReFraction Packable Duffle also comes in slate blue and white.

Courtesy of Matador

2. Matador ReFraction Packable Duffle

• Buy now: $50, matadorup.com
• Style: Packable duffle bag
• Dimensions: 21.5 x 11 x 8 inches (7.5 x 5 x 2.75 inches packed)
• Capacity: 25 liters
• Weight: 7.9 oz.

Made from a durable and water-resistant recycled nylon fabric, the Matador ReFraction packable duffle is a 25-liter bag that squishes down to the size of a paperback book and weighs only 7.9 ounces, or the equivalent of a few Snickers bars. Despite its minimalist design, it comes with two external stretch pockets on the front for organization and a built-in shoulder strap. For those looking for lightweight day bags with a similar sleek design, the ReFraction collection also includes a 16-liter packable backpack as well as a 2-liter packable sling bag .

The Freefly16 Packable Backpack stuffs down into an included sack, shown here in front.

3. Matador Freefly16 Packable Backpack

• Buy now: $80, matadorup.com
• Dimensions: 19 x 10 x 6 inches (3.75 x 3.75 x 5.5 inches packed)
• Capacity: 16 liters
• Weight: 6.7 oz.

For more outdoorsy endeavors, Matador’s Freefly16 Packable Backpack is a great option. As one of the newest additions to Matador’s travel line, it’s designed to perform even better in wet conditions (it’s water-resistant, not waterproof) and weighs less than the previous backpacks by Matador, such as those in the ReFraction series. A rarity for backpacks of this size and weight, it comes with a thin hipstrap for better distributing weight, two water bottle cages (one on each side), and a spacious external pocket for stashing anything you need to reach quickly. It packs down into its own dedicated stuff sack, so you can easily toss it into your luggage and have a quality hiking or walking-about-town daypack on hand when you arrive at your destination. “Overall, I love this bag’s packability, weight, and additional features like the hipstrap,” says Jessie Beck, AFAR’s associate director of SEO & Video. “I’ve used it on at least a dozen trips since getting it, and it’s proven to be durable and sturdy as well.”

This packable bag folds down to the size of a book and comes in six colors, including Safari Green, seen here.

4. Paravel Fold-Up Bag

• Buy now: $75, tourparavel.com
• Dimensions: 18 x 11.5 x 11 inches (9.75 x 8 x 2.75 inches packed)
• Capacity: n/a
• Weight: 16 oz.

Paravel’s ultralight duffle bag can pack into your big luggage for those gotta-have-it souvenir emergencies. The tear- and water-resistant duffle is featherlight and zips neatly into a small pouch when you’re not using it. It’s also AFAR digital content director Laura Dannen Redman’s go-to weekend bag . She calls it the “ Trojan horse of weekend bags ” since it holds so much more inside than you’d expect. She can easily fit two pairs of shoes, two toiletry bags, and three days of winter clothing in it. An added bonus—the sustainable nylon material is made from 22 recycled plastic water bottles.

Paravel’s Negative Nylon Collection also comes with packable backpacks and belt bags that all fold up just like this duffle.

This Patagonia tote pack comes in Burl Red, seen here, as well as four other colors.

Courtesy of Patagonia

5. Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Tote Pack 27L

• Buy now: $99, patagonia.com
• Style: Packable tote pack
• Dimensions: 15.5 x 10.25 x 8 inches (packed dimensions unavailable)
• Capacity: 27 liters
• Weight: 13.05 oz.

Weighing in at just under a pound, this tote pack has both tote straps for over the shoulder wear and backpack straps. It also stuffs into its own pocket for storage. A wide zipper opening allows easy access to belongings, and zipped exterior and interior stash pockets provide enough space for valuables. Nylon ripstop fabric—made with 100 percent recycled materials—makes the bag tear-resistant, and a special finish means it’s water-repellent, too.

As its name implies, the packable Baggu Cloud tote weighs less than a pound.

Courtesy of Baggu

6. Baggu Cloud Bag

• Buy now: $56, baggu.com
• Style: Packable tote bag
• Dimensions: 21 x 13.8 x 8 inches (9 x 7.5 x 2 inches packed)
• Weight: 8.65 oz.

This lightweight packable tote—which comes in fun, limited edition prints or basic black—folds up into an included pouch and expands to a roomy carry-all. Use it as an overnight bag, beach tote , or in emergencies when your clothes just don’t seem to fit into your carry-on the same way they did when you arrived.

Baggu has also expanded its Cloud Bag collection with the same foldable design to include a mini-version that works as a daily purse, a carry-on duffle that fits in overhead bins, and an extra-large version for when you really need to bring everything with you.

The Eagle Creek Packable Backpack 20L is available in black (seen here) and blue.

Courtesy of Eagle Creek

7. Eagle Creek Packable Backpack 20L

• Buy now: $35, amazon.com
• Dimensions: 18.5 x 10.25 x 5.5 inches (7.5 x 5 x 2.5 inches packed)
• Capacity: 20 liters
• Weight: 6 oz.

Eagle Creek’s Packable Backpack is ideal for casual day hikes—and even has a side water bottle pocket. When you don’t need to use it, just stuff it into its side zipper pocket. When it’s packed, it takes up less space than a Nalgene water bottle, so it’ll fit snuggly in your carry-on or checked bag. Made with 100 percent recycled ripstop polyester, this bag is ultra durable but weighs less than half a pound.

The Longchamp Le Pliage Expandable Tote currently comes in Pomegranate (seen here) and Dahlia, a rich burgundy shade.

Courtesy of Nordstrom

8. Longchamp Le Pliage Expandable Tote

• Buy now: $130 (was $230), nordstromrack.com
• Dimensions: 12 x 16 x 7 inches (fully expanded); 12 x 11 x 7 inches (zipped)
• Weight: 12.8 oz.

A packable classic for a reason, all of Longchamp’s lightweight nylon totes can be folded down to the size of a paperback book when not in use. ( Pliage literally means “folding” in French.) But this expandable version also includes a zip inset that allows the bag to go from regular tote size to an extra-large carryall so you can bring all your souvenirs home.

Yes, even wheeled luggage can be packable.

Courtesy of Biaggi

9. Biaggi Zipsak Boost Max Luggage

• Buy now: $90 (was $260), biaggi.com
• Style: Collapsible suitcase
• Dimensions: 18.5 x 9.5 x 17 inches (carry-on); 18.5 x 9.5 x 28 inches (check-in); 18.5 x 9.5 x 4.5 inches (packed)
• Weight: 4.9 lbs.

Made with water- and tear-resistant nylon fabric, the Biaggi Zipsak Boost Max wheeled suitcase easily expands from overhead luggage size to checked bagged capacity with the pull of a zipper that increases the bag’s height from 17 to 28 inches. It’s a great way to save the checked bag fee one way when you want to load up on souvenirs on the way back. When completely zipped up, the bag can easily be tucked under your bed or in your closet for storage. Jessie Beck contributed reporting to this article. This article originally appeared online in 2018; it was updated most recently on April 4, 2024, to include current information.

15 Best Packable Backpacks for Travelers in 2024

Are you the ultimate light traveler? If you’re looking for the best packable daypacks on the market, this list has you covered!

For one-bag travelers, there’s nothing better than packable backpacks. They combine the utility of small, light bags designed for short adventures with the convenience of being able to shove them into a side pocket of your main bag.

Whether you’re taking your big hiking backpack into the wilderness or filling your carry-on luggage for your next trip abroad, these bags are great companions.

You can explore side trails without lugging your tent with you, or take a packed lunch and your camera on your next sightseeing tour. Or simply have an extra bag for all your souvenirs when you return home!

Recently there has been an explosion in the number of these packs on the market. Every year, backpack brands are making their bags lighter, more waterproof , more durable, and more supportive.

While it’s fantastic to have so many options, it can be tough to pick which one is right for you.

I’ve tested dozens of travel backpacks in search of the best ones and what makes each one so special. You might even say I’ve got a thing for a good travel bag, especially a well-constructed carry-on backpack .

Whether you’re a digital nomad, avid hiker, city traveler or just love a good adventure, this list of the best packable backpacks has what you need.

• Best Overall Packable Backpack: Matador Freerain22
• Best Budget Packable Backpack: G4Free 20L Lightweight Packable Backpack
• Most Stylish Packable Backpack: Bellroy Lite Daypack
• Most Versatile Packable Backpack: Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack
• Most Packable Laptop Backpack: Aer Go Pack
• Best Packable Camera Backpack: WANDRD VEER 18L
• Best Waterproof Packable Backpack: Exped Splash 15
• Best Lightweight Packable Backpack: Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil
• Best Roll-Top Packable Backpack: Hyperlite Mountain Gear Stuff Pack
• Best Packable Hiking Backpack: Matador Beast28 Ultralight Technical Backpack
• Best Small Packable Backpack: Eagle Creek PACK-IT Reveal Org Convertible Pack
• Most Comfortable Packable Backpack: Eddie Bauer Stowaway Packable 20L
• Best Packable Everyday Backpack: Matador ReFraction
• Most Durable Packable Backpack: Osprey Remnants
• Most Eco-Friendly Packable Backpack: Cotopaxi Batac 16L

Matador Freerain22 : Best Overall Packable Backpack

If you are looking for the best all-around packable backpack, check out the Matador Freerain22 . This pack stands out from most packable daypacks by offering a fully capable pack for hiking and travel rather than just a flimsy bag with shoulder straps.

Matador has gone out of their way to make the bag as waterproof as possible. With 70D Robic® nylon UHMWPE reinforced ripstop fabric, internally sealed seams, and a rolltop opening, this bag can take some liquid punishment. Seriously, you could stand in a torrential rainforest downpour wearing this bag and still have no seepage into the main compartment!

Unfortunately, the exterior pockets areonly water-resistant, so beware of putting your phones or wallets in there.

Besides the waterproofing, there are many other features that I like about this packable daypack. There is a sternum strap and plenty of adjustment options (without the straps getting too messy). The shoulders have lots of support for carrying bigger loads, and there are gear loops with shock cord captures. Crucially, the material used is designed to be very resistant to wear and tear. Packable backpacks tend to be light and flimsy, so it’s nice to see that this one is built to last.

All in all, it’s a very well-rounded daypack. While waterproofing is the key feature, there is plenty more to like about the Matador Freerain: It’s comfortable, durable, and has all the pockets and features you need.

• Pros & Cons
• Technical Specs
• Cool design
• Sternum strap for added support
• Very adjustable 
• Two water bottle pockets for extra hydration!
• Exterior pockets are not waterproof

G4Free 20L Lightweight Packable Backpack : Best Budget Packable Backpack

G4Free is a brand that makes backpacks in China and sells them on Amazon. No, you shouldn’t expect outstanding quality and durability, but for the price, their stuff is actually pretty good.

Essentially, you have two reasons to buy G4Free 20L Lightweight Packable Backpack : it’s very cheap, and it’s very light. At just 5.6oz, this is a feather-light packable daypack. If you’re concerned about your carry-on luggage weight or being weighed down on the trail, you can leave those worries behind with this packable daypack. The price point definitely leaves you a bit of extra room in your budget too.

However, this packable daypack also has a number of flaws. My biggest concern is the straps, which are made of mesh only. This sheds weight but means there is zero padding, so you’ll be uncomfortable if you’re carrying a heavier load. The bag itself is roomy at 20L, but with no shoulder padding, you won’t be able to pack it full without making yourself seriously uncomfortable.

Furthermore, while this packable daypack has a few pockets, the front zippered pocket zips vertically, making it difficult to actually use.

This is not a bad daypack by any means, and if you are looking for a light bag on a budget, it works. However, if comfort and utility are concerns for you, there are better packs on the market.

• Very lightweight
• Many different styles and colors 
• Unique features 
• Very accessible price 
• Large 25L capacity
• Thin mesh shoulder straps

Bellroy Lite Daypack : Most Stylish Packable Backpack

Bellroy has been around for a while, and they know their stuff: useful, aesthetic gear with features that travelers need. This packable bag definitely fits that bill.

First things first: the Bellroy Lite Daypack just looks really cool. Most packable daypacks are floppy, saggy, and unappealing; Bellroy has found a way to make their version a fashion item. This is definitely one you could wear around the city as well as the trail.

This bag has a streamlined exterior design that gives this bag the kind of sleek aesthetic that Bellroy is known for.

It also has a lot more to it than most packable backpacks. There is a breathable back panel. The shoulder straps are actually surprisingly comfortable. Plus, there is a great array of pockets on the inside to keep everything organized.

The tradeoff is that the Bellroy Lite Daypack is a bit heavier than others on this list, and it doesn’t pack down as small.

If you need the utmost packability, this probably isn’t the best option. For a stylish bag with a few more features that still packs into your suitcase, this is a great option

• Very stylish design 
• Great internal organization
• Better-than-average comfort
• Heavier than many packable backpacks
• Not as packable as other options

Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack : Most Versatile Packable Backpack

Osprey is one of my all-time favorite backpack brands. These guys are the heavyweights of the backpack world, at the top of the game for hiking and traveling gear, and this packable daypack is their latest hit.

Osprey Ultralight is a packable daypack with an extremely minimalist design. There is nothing on this backpack that doesn’t need to be there! You get a water bottle pocket, a tiny zip pocket, and that’s it. The whole thing tips the scales at 4oz and packs down into an apple-sized storage pocket.

It’s like wearing a bag made of air.

You would expect that such a lightweight packable daypack would have made every comfort compromise possible, but surprisingly, it wears quite well. While you would not want to be hucking around a chunky camera or your rock collection in this bag, it’s perfect for your average day trek or sightseeing trip. It has the added plus of being moderately water-resistant, as well as coming in a few funky colors.

This bag is a feather-light way to easily carry your essentials with you, and it won’t add anything extra to your luggage. If you’re on the hunt for a weight-efficient packable daypack, this is one of the best options on the market.

• Space for your essentials
• Sleek design
• Surprisingly durable for such a light bag 
• Protected by Osprey’s excellent warranty
• Not many organization options
• Bottles tend to fall out of side pocket
• Would do better with a hydration bladder

Aer Go Pack : Most Packable Laptop Backpack

If you’re wanting a compact packable backpack that can also carry a laptop (safely), you’re options are pretty limited. Most packable backpacks are very minimal and don’t have a good laptop pocket.

Aer is a San-Fancisco-based brand that specializes in sleek, functional gear for travel and everyday urban use. Like many modern startup brands, they got their start through crowdfunding campaigns. Now they build some of the best travel packs and bags on the market.

The Aer Go Pack is a unique product. It is a full-featured travel/city daypack with great styling, lots of pockets, comfortable shoulder straps, a padded back panel, and a suspended laptop sleeve.

Unlike other packs on this list that stuff down into their own pocket, the Aer Go Pack is designed to pack flat inside luggage. It definitely isn’t quite as compact as other packable backpacks, but I’m willing to make that tradeoff to give my laptop a little better protection.

As far as features go, you get two stretchy side pockets for bottles, a front pocket that’s great for stuffing in a jacket, a top zipped pocket, and a small zippered pocket inside that’s perfect for do-not-lose items like passports.

Even if you don’t need to carry a laptop, this is a great lightweight bag for travel that gives you more comfort and features than most packable backpacks.

• Durable materials
• Comfy padded shoulder straps and back panel
• Suspended laptop compartment
• Stylish design
• Heavier than others
• Doesn't pack down as small

WANDRD VEER 18L : Best Packable Camera Backpack

WANDRD earned its fame a few years ago with a Kickstarter to build a backpack for photographers, and they ended up with the PRVKE . With the enormous success of that initial product, they’ve come back again with VEER, a packable daypack designed for photographers.

This bag’s unique features are impressive and it’s designed to carry a lot of stuff. The standouts are the inflatable components: to save packing space and increase comfort, the back padding is actually a tubing system that you manually inflate. The bag also comes with a space-efficient inflatable camera cube that protects your precious gear from any knocks and bumps.

Structurally, this packable daypack is pretty sound. It wears well, with aerated padding in the shoulders and back for sweat-wicking, and a good fit for your spine’s natural curvature. The sternum strap adds even more support. The bag itself is made of very robust materials and WANDRD offers a lot of compatible add-ons for your lenses and other equipment, plus some daisy chains to lash a tripod onto the back of the bag.

When not in use, it packs to the size of a tissue box.

Would I recommend it to you? Only if you’re a photographer. There are a lot of interesting features in this packable daypack, but the hefty price tag is difficult to justify unless you’re camera-happy.

• Inflatable strap padding and camera cube
• Natural and ergonomic fit 
• Built for photographers
• Sternum strap
• Relatively large when packed
• Not so good for non-photographers

Exped Splash 15 : Best Waterproof Packable Backpack

Most backpacks are made of water-resistant materials, but that doesn’t mean you should rely on them to keep your gear dry in a thunderstorm or on a paddling trip.

The Exped Splash is a unique little backpack. It was originally designed for river swimming, and it draws on Exped’s expertise in drybags to deliver a fully waterproof construction. It has a roll-top opening and fully taped seams, which is something you don’t see often, even in packs claiming to be waterproof.

This bag definitely is not for everyone. It doesn’t have any organization pockets, it isn’t super comfortable, and it looks a bit…unique. If you’re looking for a better all-around backpack that can shed rain, the Matador FreeRain is a better choice.

The Exped Splash is absolutely the best pack on this list though for pure waterproofness. If you’re heading on a kayaking, paddleboarding, or rafting trip and want to be sure your stuff will stay dry, this is the bag for you.

• Roll-top primary compartment 
• Fully taped seams
• Lightweight
• Not great for everyday use

Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil : Best Lightweight Packable Backpack

Just when I thought packable backpacks couldn’t get any lighter, Sea to Summit came along to prove me wrong. I’m a big fan of Sea to Summit products in general, so I was pretty keen to see what this one had to offer.

The Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil weighs 2.5oz. That’s right, two point five ounces! It’s a shockingly lightweight packable daypack that folds up into a keychain-sized pouch.

As you might expect, everything has been stripped out to make this packable daypack lighter. There are no pockets except for the main compartment. There are a couple of webbing loops at the bottom where you can attach a bike light, but that’s the only frill about this backpack.

Sea to Summit has managed to design this packable daypack in a way that is still reasonably comfortable despite its thin shoulder straps and lack of padding, mostly thanks to its innovative stitching and a shape that hugs close to the back. This is a sturdy bag that will stand the test of time, built from durable materials and put together with care.

The standard warnings about light backpacks still apply to the Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil: the lack of padding impedes comfort, and it’s not suitable for carrying a lot of gear. But at 2.5oz this bag takes up virtually no space, and that’s essential for any light traveler.

• Packs down to almost nothing at all 
• Excellent minimalist backpack with only one pocket
• Thin shoulder straps

Hyperlite Mountain Gear Stuff Pack : Best Roll-Top Packable Backpack

Hyperlite Mountain Gear builds some of the best outdoor packs out there, hands down. Their backpacks are all hand-made in Maine, and they use the most advanced materials on the market to give you lightweight, durable, waterproof gear.

While zippers are the standard closure method for backpacks, there are a lot of advantages to a roll-top design. It’s simple, more durable, and can be fully waterproof with the right fabric. Plus, you always look cool opening a roll-top.

The Hyperlite Stuff Pack is a featherweight roll-top backpack that’s designed for minimalist hikers. It’s made from high-tech dyneema composite fabric. Combined with the roll-top design and taped-seam construction, this bag is virtually waterproof. I don’t know if I’d quite trust it on a whitewater rafting trip, but anything other than that should be totally within its water-repelling capability.

The shoulder straps don’t have much as far as padding goes, but they’re wide and well-shaped to deliver the best comfort.

If you’re looking for features, this pack has none. It’s one big top-opening compartment with shoulder straps sewn on. That’s it. You don’t get anything in terms of organization here, but if you’re looking for a simple, durable pack that feels like it isn’t there, this is the one for you.

• Fully waterproof materials and design
• Surprisingly durable for its weight
• No organization

Matador Beast28 Ultralight Technical Backpack : Best Packable Hiking Backpack

If you’re looking for high-performance packable backpacks for hiking and other outdoor pursuits, the Matador Beast28 Ultralight Technical Backpack is a purpose-built lightweight pack for exploring the outdoors.

While it is designed to be packable, Matador didn’t skimp on performance with this well-designed pack. The biggest difference between this and pretty much any other packable daypack is that it has a built-in frame to provide extra support. I was blown away by how they were able to have a framed backpack that’s still packable.

The frame is a spring-steel hoop sewn into the back panel. When in use, it does a decent job at distributing the weight (though it definitely isn’t enough for really heavy loads). To collapse the backpack, you just twist the entire frame, and it folds in on itself into a much smaller package. Crazy!

There is also a removable padded hip belt. Combined with the frame, this works well for getting some of the weight off your shoulders and onto your hips. The shoulder straps are also very comfortable, making this the best pack on this list for carrying slightly heavier loads.

Beyond that, this bag is packed with all the features you’d expect from a fully equipped hiking daypack. There are two stretchy bottle pockets, a hydration bladder sleeve, great pockets for keeping smaller items organized, and loops for an ice axe or trekking poles.

The downside to all these features is that this bag is a bit heavier than the others on this list. It also begs the question: do you really need a packable daypack? If you’re looking for a full-featured hiking pack, you may be better off getting one with just a bit more structure and skip the packability.

• Framed design for great support
• Very comfortable shoulder straps
• Tons of features for hiking
• Heavier than other packable backpacks
• Doesn't perform as well as a more structured daypack 

Eagle Creek PACK-IT Reveal Org Convertible Pack : Best Small Packable Backpack

Do you need to carry just the essentials and want a daypack that takes up the minimal space in your travel bag?

The Eagle Creek PACK-IT Reveal Org Convertible Pack is a unique design based on Eagle Creek’s packing cubes. While traveling, use it like a normal packing cube to keep your stuff organized. Then, when you get to your destination, turn it inside out, and it becomes a tiny daypack.

How’s that for multi-purpose?

It has an organization panel with tons of little pockets to keep your phone, cables, headphones, identification, and other small items compartmentalized during travel, whether it’s in your travel bag or on your back.

• Doubles as a packing cube
• Great organization
• Too small for some people
• Heavier than many alternatives

Eddie Bauer Stowaway Packable 20L : Most Comfortable Packable Backpack

Eddie Bauer was a man who started making outdoor adventure gear almost 100 years ago. To this day, his company is a leader in American adventure gear, and I was excited to test their new packable daypack.

The Eddie Bauer Stowaway Packable 20L is a decent packable bag. It has an ergonomic shape designed to hold your items close to your back and to evenly distribute weight. The shoulder straps have a fair bit of integrity with some padding for comfort. Although, once again, I wouldn’t want to be carrying anything heavier than a water bottle in this bag—it’s just not built to easily carry heavy loads, despite being a 20L.

There are several handy pockets on the outside and inside, but they have made the front pocket a vertical pocket. As I mentioned before, this isn’t a great design feature and it really limits what you can put inside that pocket.

In terms of material and design, this packable daypack really shines. The polyester composite is partially waterproof, meaning that your stuff won’t be drenched in a sudden shower. The designers also thought to include a few loops to attach extra stuff to the back.

Finally, the amount of colors and designs for the Eddie Bauer Stowaway Packable Daypack are pretty awesome. There are some really unique designs on the product website!

• Water-resistant material 
• Good weight distribution
• Padded shoulder straps
• Extra webbing loops
• Lots of color options
• Heavier than other options
• Not great for heavy loads

Matador ReFraction : Best Packable Everyday Backpack

Matador shows up on this list multiple times for good reason. They specialize in making some of the best packable backpacks around, and that shows in their innovative designs and impressive quality.

If you’re looking for a backpack to use every day, the Matador ReFraction is a great choice. It’s simple, streamlined, and stylish. It has just the right features for minimal everyday carry.

Most packable backpacks are pretty bare-bones, with not much besides a single zippered opening and some fabric shoulder straps. That doesn’t work well for everyday carry, because you don’t have any way to organize your stuff.

In true Matador form, the ReFraction changes that with a utilitarian design that includes two water bottle pockets, a top zippered pocket, and comfortable shoulder straps. It’s still very stripped-back compared to a full-featured backpacks, but this packable daypack is one you’ll actually want to use on a daily basis.

• Useful features and pockets
• Durable construction
• Not as light or compact as some alternatives

Osprey Remnants : Most Durable Packable Backpack

Not everyone wants the absolute lightest pack that’s made with featherweight materials. If you are a bit harder on gear, you need something tougher.

Osprey is known for building durable backpacks, and the Osprey Remnants packable backpack. It’s made from tough 210-denier ripstop nylon. That, combined with excellent build quality and a simple design, makes this pack ready to take a beating.

You get two water bottle pockets and a top zippered pocket with this pack, so it offers more utility and organization than many packable bags.

The best part is in the name. The Remnants backpack is made from remnant fabric that’s left over while manufacturing Osprey’s larger backpacks. That means that leftover fabric is being kept from going to the landfill. It also means Osprey offers this bag at a very low price. Win, win!

• Made from left-over fabric from other products
• Very affordable
• Not great for hiking
• Not super comfortable

Cotopaxi Batac 16L : Most Eco-Friendly Packable Backpack

If you’re looking for something truly unique, this is the bag for you. That’s because every single Batac backpack is a unique item, created by the Cotopaxi workers from scrap material from other products. How cool is that? Not only is it unique, but it also reduces the environmental impact of the bag.

The fact that it’s made from leftovers means that each bag is slightly unique in build as well as color. While each bag has the same broad strokes in terms of structure and design, some bags will have slightly different materials in terms of elasticity, breathability, and flexibility. All Batac bags are made with ripstop nylon, so there’s no need to worry about the quality of the materials overall.

Oh, and did I mention color? These bags are a riot of visual delight, with all kinds of different colors patched together according to the whims of the manufacturer. This is definitely the daypack for someone who wants a bit of self-expression.

In terms of packability, this one won’t fold into its own pocket. However, as it is very lightweight and unstructured, so it compresses very easily and takes up relatively little space in a larger piece of luggage.

As far as other features go, there is a vertical zippered pocket down the side which I think is an excellent idea if you are after something in a hurry.

All in all, this is an unconventional choice to be sure. But I love the color splash that these backpacks provide, as well as the knowledge that this bag represents a little less waste in the world.

• Eco-friendly choice as it’s made from leftover materials from other products
• Good design
• Comfy shoulder straps
• A little heavy

How to Choose a Packable Backpack

Packable backpacks are a rising trend in the travel and outdoor adventure world; they provide a valuable addition to any luggage. There are many factors that might go into your decision to buy one. Let’s start with why they’re are a great idea:

• They make it easier to explore side trails if you take one in your hiking backpack. Leave the big fella at the campsite and race ahead with the baby version and some snacks!
• They can be a great addition to your carry-on luggage on the plane. If you’re all about a one-bag travel lifestyle, these packs allow you to be so much more versatile. Plus, it means one less bag to keep track of once it’s stowed in your main luggage.
• They’re super lightweight. They’re great for peak bashing and climbing in the summer.

So, when is a packable daypack not a good idea? If you have to carry a lot of heavy items, such as heavy camera equipment, lots of food, or several days of gear. Unfortunately, the fabrics that make these daypacks just aren’t strong enough to carry that kind of thing!

Let’s have a look at some key factors.

1. Materials

Advances in fabric technology mean that packable daypacks have gone from simple totes to essential equipment. This means there are quality products out there, so you shouldn’t settle for a backpack with the integrity of a supermarket bag.

Make sure you find a packable daypack that will last, ideally built of high ripstop nylon or waterproof sailcloth.

A crucial asset in addition to materials. You won’t be carrying multiple water bottles with these packs (most don’t even have water bottle pockets). They’re designed to be as unobtrusive as possible, and excess weight can be pretty obtrusive. Be careful with how light you want your bag — too light, and the structural integrity will be compromised.

If you think you’ll need to carry lots of heavier stuff, make sure your pack has sternum straps to balance a heavier load.

While this is less of a concern in a packable daypack that won’t be carrying much weight, padding is still important. Not only does it provide that little bit of extra comfort, but good back and shoulder padding (and a good shoulder strap system) also provides air access to wick away excess sweat. Because, let’s face it, no one loves a shirt soaked in back sweat.

4. Weatherproofing

While most packable daypacks don’t claim to be waterproof, it’s nice to know that they won’t get soaked immediately if the rain starts falling. There are waterproof packable backpacks out there, so make sure you take a look if you expect to be walking through wet and rainy areas.

Final Thoughts on Buying a Packable Backpack

While the Matador FreeRain is one of my favorite packable backpacks on the market, it all comes down to choosing what’s right for you and what you want to carry. If you’re a city traveler, you probably don’t need the bells and whistles of a climbing backpack.

At the end of the day, these packs are meant to make traveling easier on you. I hope you find the bag of your travel dreams!

• The Best Carry-On Backpacks
• The Best Carry-On Duffel Bags
• The Best Carry-On Luggage
• The Best Travel Backpacks
• The Best Travel Daypacks

Packable Backpacks FAQs

What is a packable backpack.

A packable backpack is one that can be stuffed or rolled into a small package or into its own pocket.

What backpack fits as a carry-on?

Backpacks under 45 liters work as a carry-on.

What backpacks are good for travel?

Travel-specific carry-on backpacks are the best for travel.

What size backpack can fit under airplane seat?

To fit under an airplane seat, a backpack needs to be less than 18″ x 14″ x 8″.

Does backpack under the seat count as carry-on?

A backpack that fits under the airplane seat counts as your personal item. You can still bring a separate carry-on.

Jeremy Scott Foster

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9 Best Foldable Travel Bags and Foldable Luggage

Ashley Rossi

Ashley Rossi is always ready for her next trip. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram for travel tips, destination ideas, and off the beaten path spots.

After interning at SmarterTravel, Ashley joined the team full time in 2015. She's lived on three continents, but still never knows where her next adventure will take her. She's always searching for upcoming destination hotspots, secluded retreats, and hidden gems to share with the world.

Ashley's stories have been featured online on USA Today, Business Insider, TripAdvisor, Huffington Post, Jetsetter, and Yahoo! Travel, as well as other publications.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "A reusable filtered water bottle—it saves you money, keeps you hydrated, and eliminates waste—win-win."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : "A week in a bamboo beach hut on India's Andaman Islands."

Travel Motto : "Travel light, often, and in good company."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Window—best view in the house."

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Whether you live in a small space and need all the storage room you can get, or you need an extra bag to pack for your return trip home, these nine foldable travel bags fit the bill.

The Best Foldable Travel Bags: Duffels

From hybrid backpack-duffels to collapsible spinners, there’s an easy storage option for every travel style and size.

HEXIN Packable & Collapsible Lightweight Foldable Large Travel Duffel

This large and durable duffel by HEXIN is great to pack with your normal luggage in case you end up buying additional items that can’t fit in your packed bag. It is lightweight and has a shoe storage compartment and an 85-liter capacity. It’s one of the top-rated foldable travel bags on Amazon. Its ripstop nylon fabric protects against water and tearing.

Dimensions: 24 x 9 x 14 inches, folds to 11.5 x 10 x 3 inches.

The North Face Flyweight Duffel

This highly compressible duffel is one of the smallest foldable travel bags on the list. The super-functional duffel is part of The North Face’s Flyweight Collection , featuring 30 percent lighter fabric. The bag has removable shoulder straps and top grab handles, as well as an external zippered pocket and stretch-sleeve pockets. If you’re a light packer, this foldable travel bag is the perfect option.

Dimensions:  13.5 x 20 x 8.5 inches, folds into internal zippered pocket.

Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler Duffel

This 60-liter foldable travel bag packs into its front-end zippered compartment for easy storage. These foldable travel bags also come in sizes small through extra-large. Each size has removable backpack straps, padded top handles, and side grab handles. The U-shaped lid makes for an easily accessible main compartment, and the bottom is foam-padded for rugged environments (or baggage handlers).

Dimensions: Taken from the medium size: 26.5 x 10.25 x 13.5 inches, folds to 13.5 x 10.5 x 5 inches.

Cotopaxi Uyuni Travel Duffel Bag

The Cotopaxi Uyuni is one of the most versatile foldable travel bags out there. While it doesn’t have any special storage features, it lies completely flat and takes up minimal space under a bed, making it easy to stow it. I love this backpack-duffel hybrid because the backpack straps snap under a flap, so they don’t get in the way if you want to use the shoulder strap. The 46-liter size works well as a carry-on.

Dimensions: 20 x 11.25 x 5 inches, folds flat.

Patagonia Black Hole Duffel Bag

This backpack-duffel hybrid is one of the best foldable travel bags out there as it completely folds into itself (admittedly, the first time is a little tough, but with practice it gets easier). The polyester ripstop material, complete with weatherproof TPU laminate and a sturdy water-repellent finish, makes this bag extremely durable in the outdoors.

Dimensions: 28 x 17.5 x 13 inches, folds into itself.

The 10 Best Weekend Travel Bags for Men

The Best Foldable Travel Bags: Rollers

Biaggi zipsak line.

The Biaggi ZipSak line offers a variety of folding travel bags, but my favorite is the 22-inch spinner . The bag folds up into a package the size of a packing cube for easy storage, with “MicroFold” technology that shrinks the bag. All the products in the ZipSak line are affordable. The upright bags have four multi-directional spinner wheels and are super lightweight.

Dimensions: Taken from the carry-on spinner: 22 x 14 x 10 inches, folds into a Z-Fold pack.

16 Packing Hacks That Will Change How You Travel

Eagle Creek No Matter What Rolling Duffel

This rolling duffel from Eagle Creek somehow miraculously folds into its own stuff pouch—yes, even the wheels. Available in sizes L and XL , this is one of the largest foldable travel bags on the market. This foldable luggage also has sturdy, oversized wheels, reinforced webbing, and compression straps.

Dimensions : Taken from the L size: 30 x 15 x 14 inches, folds into itself.

Biaggi Lift-Off! Expandable Underseater to Carry-On

Though not fully collapsible, this 2-in-1 bag starts off as an underseater and expands up into a full-on carry-on bag. Separate dirty shoes from your clean clothes by simply unzipping the top lid and pulling up the top fabric in order to reveal a brand-new compartment.

Dimensions: 22 x 14.5 x 7 inches at full size, condenses down to 15 x 14.5 x 7 inches.

Best Carry-On Luggage: Affordable Bags Under $150

Lipault 0% Pliable Collection

Our favorite item in the Lipault 0% Pliable Collection is the Foldable Upright 55/20 . It’s one of the best-quality collapsible bags out there and folds up into its own case. The spinner is soft-sided and lightweight, so you can fit a lot in it without excess bag fees.

Dimensions: 21.6 x 14.6 x 8.6 inches, collapses flat.

What to Pack in Your Foldable Travel Bag

Women’s outfit to wear this spring, shop the look.

Square Shirt

Ankle Skinny Jeans

Hydro Flask

Leather Tote

Wool Runners

Men's shoe-less outfit to wear in spring.

Shielded Money Clip

Wireless Headphones

Waterproof Roll Top Backpack

More from smartertravel:.

• 10 Underseat Carry-on Bags You Can Take on Any Flight
• 9 Great Crossbody Bags for Travel
• Ultralight Rolling Carry-on Bags Under 6 Pounds

Editor’s note: All of these foldable travel bags were available at time of publication.

Some review products are sent to us free of charge and with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions, positive and negative, and will never accept compensation to review a product.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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Home » Gear » The Best Packable Backpacks For 2024 – Which One is The Best?

The Best Packable Backpacks For 2024 – Which One is The Best?

Whether you’re heading into the city or the woods, you’ll want to carry some supplies with you. A water bottle, raincoat, and an extra cliff bar can make or break a day trip. A packable backpack will spruce up your next adventure by providing additional space for your essential belongings without being cumbersome.

Big bulky backpacks are necessary to carry everything you’ll need all week long, but nobody wants to lug all their possessions or only what fits in your pockets every time they leave the house.

More travelers are starting to lean on packable backpacks to provide a lightweight storage solution. These backpacks can be compacted to fit inside any carry-on bag and expanded to serve as a day pack on special occasions.

We’ve been through countless security lines, switchbacks, and city streets, learning the right way to carry the essentials with us through trial and error. No matter where we head, we’re always looking for new gear that makes our lives easier.

There’s no point in breaking out the big guns for a few hours in the city. 15 minutes before the tour starts, you can unroll your packable bag, throw a few essentials in there, and be off to the races, free as a bird.

Having everything you need within easy reach and nothing to hold you down will allow you to spend less time worrying about what’s on your back and more time soaking in new experiences.

So, let’s crack on and find out what the best packable day pack is!

Quick Answer: The Best Packable Backpacks of 2024

The best packable backpacks, how and where we tested to find the best packable backpack, faq about the best packable backpack, #1. wandrd veer 18 packable bag – best overall, # 2 . tortuga setout packable day pack – runner up, #3. lojel foldable travel backpack – best packable daypack, #4. matador beast 18 – best budget packable bag, #5. aer daypack 2 – another great packable bag, #6. wandrd tech bag – packable tech bag, #7. tropicfeel shell backpack – backpack with wardrobe, #8. nomatic navigator duffel – packable duffel backpack.

Wandrd Veer 18 Packable Bag

• > Weather-resistant materials
• > Two exterior pockets

Nomatic Navigator Collapsible Duffel

• > Simple and gimmick free
• > Lightweight yet durable

LOJEL Foldable Travel Daypack

• > Made from 100% recyclable Tyvek
• > Durability and fashion

Matador Beast 18

• > Flexible steel frame
• > Three separate pockets

REI Co-Op Flash 18

• > Lightweight storage
• > One-pocket style

AER Daypack 2

• > Minimalist design
• > Lightweight

Sea To Summit Ultra-Sil Travel Day Pack

• > Two shoulder straps and one large pocket
• > Lightest packable backpack

Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack

• > Water-resistant exteriors

Tropicfeel Shell Backpack

• > Adjustable pack – 22l to 40l
• > Versatile and sturdy

Eagle Creek Packable Day Pack

• > Outside zipper pocket

Herschel Packable Pack

• > Long-time favorite of students

Wandrd Tech Bag

• > Several interior pockets
• > Waterproof

Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Tote

• > Hipster style closing and simple design
• > Weather resistance

With many packable options on the market, the best packable daypacks seek to establish themselves as the best at a particular niche. Some packs have given up everything to stay as small as possible, while others offer up support and perks in a slightly less compact compartment. 

The bags on our list have provided the best combinations of capacity, weight, extras, and efficiency to provide value for most trips. From the best packable hiking backpack to the smallest packable backpack for minimalist travellers, we’ve got them all! We’ve even got packable backpacks that we rate as bags perfect for the beach too.

There is no bridge too far to cross to make your travel days easier. For everything from keeping things organized on the bus to a bag perfect for the summit, the best packable backpacks out there can be found below. 

REI is one of America’s biggest and most-loved outdoor gear retailers.

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Focused on hauling high-quality equipment, the innovative company Wandrd made this packable daypack out of weather-resistant materials that stay lightweight to help modern travelers get more out of their trips. The packable bag weighs 14 ounces and will take up to 17 liters of gear wherever the journey takes you. 

Two exterior pockets let you store your passport and phone without having to dig through everything when you’re going through security. Comfortable padded shoulder straps on the model make the packable bag suitable for day trips, and the back panel inflates for flexible support. 

Not quite ultralight, this unit is best for travelers looking for a bag that can carry heavy equipment and still stow down with ease while traveling. 

Our testers rated this in the top spot when it came to packable backpacks because they felt that out of all the other options this offered the most protection and solidity. They felt the inclusion of the blow-up back panel and camera cube were ingenious ideas that in practical use actually really did make a difference to how comfortable the bag felt and how much confidence they had with their gear in it.

Introducing the Navigator Collapsible Duffle 42L, a travel essential that’s as adaptable as you are. This Collapsible Duffel is a packable 42 litre duffel bag that packs-down into the size of rolled up towel. Owing to some seriously impressive design, this bag offers 42 litres of duffel carrying goodness yet weighs barely anything and fits inside any backpack!

While being large enough to hold all your travel necessities, this packable duffel backpack has  the unique ability to collapse and tuck neatly into your roller luggage or larger travel bag when not needed. It’s an accessory designed with the modern, on-the-go individual in mind. The duffel bags design is simple and gimmick free, there is one main compartment and a smaller front compartment although it does offer the novelty of functioning as duffel over arm carry or as a backpack.

The key feature of the Navigator Collapsible Duffle 42L is its practicality. Whether you’re hitting the gym, heading to the beach, or in need of extra space, this duffle steps up to the plate. Weighing in at a mere .9 lbs, it’s lightweight yet durable enough to handle your needs.

With its versatile design and the added bonus of an attachment loop, you can hook the Navigator Collapsible Duffle 42L to any bag. 

Let Our Journeys Enrich Life , otherwise known as LOJEL, has been making high-quality luggage and backpacks since the ’80s. This small but mightily daypack is no exception, weighing in at just 290 grams, LOJEL’s Foldable Daypack is part of their Slash Series aiming to make multi-purpose gear for anything your adventure may throw at you.

Not only is this backpack easy on the eyes, but it can also fight off inclement weather with the best of them. This pack is made from 100% recyclable Tyvek, a material regarded for its ability to ward off water and snow while being extremely lightweight and durable.

Perhaps the best part about this bag though is its ability to pack into its front pocket with ease, making it a must-have for day trips while running around the city. It takes up hardly any space, so you won’t be sacrificing much packing space to bring this thing along.

Lastly, this daypack just feels good on your shoulders. Its lightweight nature, combined with the matte white Tyvek material looks and feels great. Durability and fashion found a good middle ground with this foldable daypack.

Travelers looking for a packable backpack built for outdoor adventure will find refuge in this beast of a bag. Matador has taken the best features of hiking packs and placed them all in a flexible steel frame that can fold inside itself and store down for transit. 

You won’t find many packable bags with a frame like this one. Designers have geared this option towards technical outdoor features, and even the most diehard hikers will be impressed at what they’ve pulled off. Space for a camelback, waterproof lining, and gear loops are all contained in a 21 oz shell. 

Three separate pockets will keep you organized, and there’s even a small pocket for your keys and wallet. If you’re hoping to travel light and climb high, the Beast18 will give you the best of both worlds. 

Our team loved that this bag felt pretty much like a “proper” backpack compared to some of the other flimsier numbers. The padded shoulder straps, back panel and wire frame structure made it the most comfortable on the list and the team felt it handled weight well. They were also super impressed by the compression on this bag given it’s larger profile but it was a little bigger than others on the list.

You can trust the REI Co-Op to provide gear truly built for adventure at a low cost. Their packable bag is no exception, offering top-of-the-line lightweight storage at half the price of some competition.

Just turn your bag inside out to store it inside your more oversized duffel. When you get to your final destination, you’ll have a bag with a water reservoir and exterior straps capable of holding everything you need for a day trip. There are no bells and whistles attached to this product, but there are tons of unique pattern options that let travelers find the bag that best suits them. 

Its simple one-pocket style and lack of frame imply it’s not the most technically advanced packable bag out there, but REI has made a great companion for travelers looking for an ultra lightweight storage boost. 

Our team were impressed by the durable material this bag is constructed from and how hardy it felt even for something so lightweight. They were also keen on the addition of chest and waist straps to keep the bag sturdy and more comfortable for longer stints. The pad insert for the back was also a welcome feature they felt worked well.

An updated version of AER’s signature Day Pack , this more significant option is has a minimalist design but still provides plenty of helpful features that let it carry above its weight. This pack is the largest packable backpack on this list as it does not fold into itself or roll up to fit into tight spaces. Instead, its lightweight design allows the pack to squeeze into a larger bag while remaining full size.

This pack is a sightseer’s new best friend with several internal pockets to keep everything organized and a padded back panel structure that ensures you’ll be comfortable through the entire walking tour.

If you want your packable backpack to serve as your carry-on, you’ll find a plethora of storage options that keeps everything you need in easy reach and still provides 17 liters of space for larger equipment.

Our team were of course, super impressed by how comfortable this bag was and the packability it, well, packs! But that’s a given with it being a low-profile “proper” backpack. When they tested the pack they were more interested in how well it packed down. They were impressed by its rugged but light profile and though it didn’t “pack” down like the others, they said they were able to flatten it out pretty small and it fit well inside their larger luggage laid flat.

So light you won’t even notice it’s there, Sea To Summit’s ultralight pack can easily stuff down inside a larger bag and tips the scale at just 2.5 ounces but still holds up to 20 liters of gear. The pack doesn’t leave space for anything more than two shoulder straps and one large pocket, shedding every bit of extra weight in the name of efficiency. 

Travelers who want the lightest packable backpack possible won’t find anything on the market more affordable and lightweight than this offering. The sack with straps can be attached to a larger bag with an attached carabiner, and when folded up, it’s smaller than a fist. 

While you can’t expect this bag to carry heavy-duty gear, if space and weight are your biggest concerns, this bag will fit into the most extreme packing lists. 

Our team were blown away by how light this bag was. It’s the kind of gear that you have to argue hard against throwing it in your bag rather than feeling guilty for bringing it along. Packed down the bag is super small it was easy to fit inside even small day packs. In use, it was a little flimsy and the straps couldn’t handle huge amounts of weight, but they felt if packed sensibly it could still be worn for a few hours without a problem.

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Stop press! I am slightly disrupting the format of this post in order in order to bring your attention to a very special backpack that I think you just might love – the Shell from Tropicfeel.

Whilst it isn’t a packable backpack, it is an adaptable lightweight pack that can be used in an array of ways from a humble 22 litre day pack up to a 40l travel pack. The ingenious concept works using a roll up/down top, a foldable bottom and by coming with a number of additional attachments such as the tech and toiletry bag.

Therefore, rather than bringing a packable backpack inside your main pack, you could literally just travel with this adjustable pack, perfect for one-bag travel . Being a bit bigger than the packable bags comes with benefits such as padded shoulder straps, the ability to carry heavier loads and a higher quality zippered pocket.

Perhaps my favourite feature is the wardrobe cube that fits in the main compartment which allows you to neatly pack and unpack your clothes. Oh, and it’s also made from recycled lightweight materials making it an environmental winner too.

Ok, so the team were fully aware that this bag isn’t really a proper packable backpack in the sense that most of the others are. But with this in mind, they were still really impressed by the functionality of this bag given how small it is. They loved how well it could go from a compact 22l day pack to a functional 40l that could easily be used for weekends away.

Osprey bags are frequently seen on trails, airports, and hostels around the world. The company is known to provide long-lasting bags that can survive harsh conditions and hold their weight no matter where the journey takes you, and they have successfully packed that creed into the Osprey ultralight stuff pack. 

The waterproof daypack weighs just under four ounces, can hold 18 liters of luggage, and provides three separate pockets for the little things in addition to the main compartment. Osprey installed a permanent stuff sack into the bag that converts the entire day pack into the size of a tennis ball.  Made from ripstop nylon with an external pocket for a water bottle, the only thing it’s missing is a sternum strap.

This stuff pack strikes an excellent balance between weighing less and still providing the little things like water-resistant exteriors and reinforced shoulder straps to ensure the pack is comfortable enough to wear all day. With Osprey’s life-long warranty, you can feel safe and comfortable with the osprey ultralight stuff pack in your suitcase. 

Osprey are a popular and trusted brand amongst our team and this pack really lived up to their expectations. One of the stand-out features they felt was the high quality of the construction of the backpack. This is particularly important with these lightweight packable backpacks as many can end up tearing easily. They also felt the straps were pretty comfortable for a packable bag and also allowed for a good amount of ventilation.

Patagonia’s packable daypack offering is made from 100% recycled nylon, an environmentally conscious and high-quality day pack option. The side pockets fit a water bottle, and the shoulder straps are adjustable to give this packable option the feel of a much larger bag.

You can hold 20 liters inside this lightweight device spread between a large main compartment and two zippered stash spaces. This bag has removed the zipper in the main compartment in favor of a buckle to keep things closed.

Its advanced material and classic look has turned heads, and the New York Times selected the bag as the best lightweight packable backpack on the market. Its ability to fit into various scenarios and durable material make sure that the pack is suitable for all types of journeys. 

Our team loved this Patagonia packable backpack. They felt it looked the part with the hipster style closing and simple design. In terms of functionality, they felt the Patagonia bag offered some of the best weather resistance out of any of the superlight packable bags and the ripstop material felt super durable.

This bag has cemented its place on our list by providing a few extra details that make it stand out in a crowd. It looks and feels more like a regular backpack than a packable, but it stays lightweight enough to fit inside any larger bag. An outside zipper pocket gives excellent storage options for smaller essential items and the shoulder straps are pretty decent too. 

If you don’t want your packable backpack to sacrifice all style to fit inside your suitcase, this pack has just enough around the edges to play any part required. The pack stores inside of itself to the size of a small travel pillow and includes a clip for easy attachment to larger bags.

It does all this at an incredibly affordable price while still providing a lifetime warranty. The pack doesn’t include some of the comfort or storage features of packs geared towards all-day use, but if you want convenience and affordability in a lightweight package, you can fit 20 liters of gear into this five-ounce packable day pack.    

Our team felt this was one of the best packable daypacks due to the extra features incorporated into the design that many others omit for their bags such as the lockable zips. They also liked that this bag actually looked like a proper backpack rather than like a plastic bag attached to their backs!

It’s always been tough to tell if Herschel bags can walk the walk. The company has been a long-time favorite of students just figuring out their style but are seen more at urban outfitters than the trail. This basic packable daypack won’t be the best company for a summit but still provides a lightweight, packable option suitable for the journey ahead.

This packable daypack is made from a stylish and functional ripstop nylon but unfortunately doesn’t come with a sternum strap or external space for a water bottle.

The lightweight nylon folds within itself until it’s barely the size of a pillow and unfolds into an almost full-sized day pack. While it can’t carry much more than five pounds of gear, the bag itself only weighs six ounces, making it a great choice if you want a packable pack that just needs to carry a change of clothes and a bottle of water. 

Our team loved this pack and felt it was the best foldable daypack on the market. They loved the idea of a foldable rather than a ‘ scrunchable ‘ pack due to the fact that the padding both retained its shape better and also added extra protection. They did feel the shoulder straps would have benefited from some extra padding however.

This Wandrd Tech Bag functions as a fantastic add-on for carrying phones, passports, and the gear you want to keep close and secure in a waterproof daypack. Several interior pockets let you keep everything organized for quick access, and the bag clips right onto any more significant offering to instantly upgrade your carry space. The bag is best used to add on to a larger daypack or a carry-on friendly detachment. 

It’s a great alternative to a more traditional lightweight packable backpack, the main drawn back in the one main compartment that just functions as one large zippered pocket. There is also no room for a water bottle either but it is extremely lightweight and comfortable.

It comes with a shoulder strap if you’d rather use it on its own, and the fact that Wandrd made it to carry technical gear guarantees your expensive equipment will make it to your final destination safely. The bag itself is waterproof to give your even more freedom. 

Rather than being a packable backpack in the traditional sense, the team liked the idea of a harder-wearing, more weather-resistant and comfier smaller pack instead They were impressed by the volume of the packs and liked that they came in different sizes too. Each one fit easily inside their day packs and offered a different but more comfortable solution to extra storage.

If you like this option instead of a more traditional ultralight stuff pack, check some of the other sling packs out there too.

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

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

What is a Packable Day Pack?

A packable Day Pack allows you to go lightly on travel days and bring the essentials with you while sightseeing in a super lightweight bag. The bags are small enough to roll up or stuff themselves into your larger backpacks when not needed and offer a lighter option when you only need to carry a few items.

While all packable day packs are lightweight, not every packable backpack is an ultralight bag. There are certainly some packable backpacks that qualify as ultralight bags, but there are also packable options that add on extra details. 

Whilst most can’t take the place of top quality backpacks for carrying more substantial loads, you can still get a waterproof packable backpack made from ripstop nylon that will keep your gear safe and dry in the main compartment.

These details provide more convenience than an ultralight option, like a sternum strap, increased padding on the shoulder straps or more pockets, at the cost of a few ounces. Packable day packs come in various shapes and sizes, but all of them can fit easily into carry-on luggage , so you can sneak two backpacks onto the plane and provide enough capacity to hold the essentials through a grand day out. 

Why Travel With A Packable Backpack?

Traveling with a packable daypack gives you more options. Most of the bags on our list can be stored inside themselves and weigh less than a pound. By adding barely any weight into your backpack, you can carry with you a lightweight day pack that will allow you to leave your heavy luggage in your hotel room all trip. For us, it’s an essential bit of backpacking gear .

Packable Backpacks are perfect for a day sightseeing, on the back of a mountain bike, or a day hike from basecamp. Your packable daypack could double as a built-in laundry bag, reusable grocery bag that fits in your pocket, and more. There are loads of scenarios where it will come in handy to have an extra bag on your hands. 

Can I Trust A Packable Backpack?

Be aware of the limits of your packable backpack. The lightweight features are no joke, and designers sacrificed durability at some load-bearing points in the name of portability. Some heftier bags can carry laptops, camera equipment, and other heavy technology, but you should make sure you understand exactly what your packable backpack is capable of supporting. 

The lightest packable backpacks out there will only support between five to 10 pounds and are suitable only for a few key items. Others have flexible frames and reinforced outer layers built in that might slightly increase weight and provide more carrying capacity. 

As long as you are aware of your model’s limitations, you can trust a packable backpack to make travel days and day treks easier. 

Cons Of Using A Packable Backpack?

Most packable backpacks are frame-free, which means they won’t be able to support heavier loads. Don’t expect to pack everything you need for a weekend into a bag that weighs 2.5 ounces. The lighter bags on this list made serious compromises to take up such little space, and travelers who demand more out of their bags may find these materials are not up to the task.

Packable backpacks don’t tack on many features that satisfy travelers who need tons of pockets, shoulder protection, a sternum strap, external water bottle pockets or comfort out of their packs. There are only a select few models that can be used as an everyday bag. 

Many packable backpacks are made from ripstop nylon and some are even waterproof to a degree, but if that’s your priority you should focus on waterproof backpacks with that feature as their primary purpose.

If packability and weight aren’t your primary concerns when shopping for your day packs, packable backpacks might not work best for your goals.  

To test these packs, we got hold of each of them and gave them each a proper test drive. We were sure to test all of them over the course of at least a few weeks in order to really get a feel for them and really rest them out fully.

Packability

Packable daypacks are kinda designed to be known for how packable they are, so this was an important factor in our testing!

But here packability means a couple of things! We awarded each one points for both how well each bag was able to be packed and unpacked, how well they carried gear and also how each one packs up itself too.

Does each bag facilitate easy packing or is the shape and construction making it awkward to use? We made sure to pack these out in a number of different ways and with different gear to get a good picture of the packability of each one.

Weight and Comfort of Carrying

When it comes to finding the best packable daypack one of the key features is how comfortable it is to wear. Often this type of bag falls way short when it comes to shoulder straps that are thin, skinny and dig in if you put anything of any weight inside the bag.

If a pack is overly heavy or awkward to carry then taking it along on trips becomes uncomfortable. With packable bags they’re mostly used as overflows or for shorter trips, so we did give them some leeway but we also expected the best of the bunch to put up a good show in this department.

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

Functionality

In order to test out how well a pack fulfilled the primary purpose we used it for this purpose. So when it came to packable backpacks we tested them on two levels. Firstly we wanted to see how they functioned as a day pack and how they compared to “normal” backpacking. Secondly, we wanted to assess how well each on packed down and unpacked. Were they fiddly or did they pack down to larger for example?

Some people say that travel gear doesn’t need to look good as long as it functions. Well, those people will never be as cool as us on the trails! All jokes aside, packable backpacks aren’t exactly super stylish items to begin with but we still want our gear to look good, especially if it’s expensive!

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

Durability and Weatherproofing

By their nature, packable backpacks aren’t usually super durable or weather resistant. So we weren’t overly harsh in this area, at the same time, we always want gear that will last a decent amount of time and protect our gear to a level reasonable to the product.

Our testing here was a little less hardcore than the other backpacks we’ve tested, but we did put them through their paces. We inspected the materials used, the quality of construction such as sewing and how smooth the zips were. We also looked at how strong stress points such as the shoulder straps and corners were.

Still have some questions about the best packable backpacks? No problem! We’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Here’s what people usually want to know:

What are packable backpacks?

As the name indicates, packable backpacks are easily folded and stored in a really small place. Packable backpacks basically provide an optional lightweight storage solution in case you don’t need your actual backpack.

What is the lightest packable backpack?

The Sea To Summit Ultra-Sil Travel Day Pack is one of the lightest options on the market. Once it’s folded up, it’s also one of the smallest. At just 2.5 ounces, it still holds up to 20 liters of gear.

What is the best packable backpack for hiking?

We love the Matador Beast 18 for its amazing fit, incredible durability and big capacity – while still being able to fit into a bag when rolled up.

What’s the highest-value packable backpack?

Osprey is known for it’s high quality material and life-long warranty, which makes the Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack one of the best value backpacks.

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Final Thoughts on Packable Backpacks

The best packable backpacks will be so light you forget they are there until you need them the most. Eventually, you’ll find yourself in a situation where you’ll want to shed some weight while carrying a few items with you. There’s bound to be a day where you’re glad you found your packable bag. 

Modern travelers have more choices than ever, and companies are always seeking to provide new heights of options for your adventures. Think back on the freedoms you wish you had on your last trip, and see if a packable backpack could solve your troubles. Don’t accept frustration every time you travel. There are tons of choices out there that will make your life easier and if packable backpacks aren’t the answer then maybe giving minimalist backpacks a go might also be an option.

Decide what you want out of your next adventure. The bags on this list can take you comfortably throughout various places, and no one bag is best for everyone.

Whether you’re a rugged outdoorswoman or festival roadie, there’s space for a packable backpack to make your next trip easier. 

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Aiden Freeborn

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The Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks

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.

When you open up your favorite carry-on travel backpack, it should feel like you’re opening the door to a well-organized closet or sitting down at a clean desk, with everything in the right place and easy to reach.

This is your moment to center yourself, no matter how chaotic the journey.

What we considered

A 45-liter bag maximizes overhead space but can get heavy when fully packed; 35-liter bags tend to be more manageable.

A bag with a clamshell design opens like a book and is the easiest to pack, but a bag that opens traditionally tends to have more structure.

Ideally, a travel backpack has handles on all sides—especially the bottom—so you can pull it out of overhead bins or from under seats.

Some internal pockets are useful, but major organizing is better managed with packing cubes.

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack and the larger Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L offer the best combination of features, quality, and durability. Both bags are exemplary carry-on travel backpacks that are designed for comfort, durability, and organization. Though these backpacks are great as companion bags for any trip, they’re designed to ultimately replace all of your other luggage and become your exclusive bag as you travel.

This style of packing is not for everyone, but once some people try it, they’re forever hooked. Finding the right bag is a personal choice, though, and no single bag will appeal to everyone. That’s why we also have picks that are great for people who travel for work , others that are designed to be carried over long distances , and a bag that’s basically luggage on your back .

The research

Why you should trust us, who this is for, best small carry-on bag for most situations: cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack, best large bag for most situations: peak design travel backpack 45l, best mobile office: patagonia black hole mlc 45l, best bag for long journeys on foot: osprey farpoint 40 and fairview 40, best bag if you need a large suitcase on your back: tortuga travel backpack pro 40l, other good carry-on travel backpacks, how we picked and tested, the competition.

I’ve been covering aspects of luggage and travel bag design for Wirecutter for nearly a decade, and I have personally researched, tested, and compared hundreds of bags in that time. I personally try to do most of my travel with a single backpack, whenever possible. I spent nine months roaming around Hawaii with not much more than that, and I spent another six months nomadically couch-surfing in New York City.

I reached out to writers who specialize in traveling the world carrying everything they need in a single bag: Eytan Levy, the owner and operator of the Snarky Nomad travel website; James Feess, founder of The Savvy Backpacker ; and Sharon Gourlay, of the Where’s Sharon? travel website. I also spoke with moderators of Reddit’s r/onebag and r/heronebag forums, as well as with Chase Reeves, bag fanatic, reviewer, and owner of Matterful .

We researched and tested bags designed for those who want to travel light and stay flexible while flying, without the burden of checking luggage. For some people, the challenge of cutting down a packing list is intimidating. But if you can get past that initial hurdle, traveling with a single bag is a revelation. With fewer items, you have more time to concentrate on and appreciate the journey.

• When you’re not loaded down by heavy luggage, it’s easy to remain more mobile. And it’s easier to adjust your plans mid-trip. If you’re willing to do laundry on the road, then one bag is all you need to travel indefinitely. At its heart, one-bag travel allows you to discover more—not just about the places you’re going but also about yourself and what you really need day to day.
• Size and weight still matter. If you desire more creature comforts or more gear, or if you plan to be away for a long time across multiple climates, you’ll want a bigger travel backpack . These larger bags tend not to be carry-on-friendly, however, especially in Europe, so be prepared to check them.
• No single backpack is perfect for everyone. Before you make any purchase, consider some basic points. How much can you carry? And where do you usually visit: the city or outback? Travel gear should feel like a welcome companion—there to support you when you need it but unobtrusive when you don’t.

45-liter bag vs. 35-liter bag

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

A versatile small pack for a week or a weekend.

This durable bag’s clamshell design makes it easy to organize your stuff. And due to its strap design, this bag can be worn on your back or carried in your hand while you’re on the move.

Buying Options

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack is an easy-to-organize, comfortable-to-carry bag for getaways lasting just a few days or a whole week.

It’s one bag that can do it all. This is a great all-around bag for any traveler who’s dedicated to packing light, or for a smaller person who wants less to carry. There are handles on all four sides of this bag, so it’s easy to grab no matter where you’ve stowed it. It’s also protected by a full lifetime warranty, and it has the build quality to back that up. After more than four years of testing, this single backpack (plus a personal item ) has replaced nearly every travel bag or piece of luggage I use.

It comes in various sizes, but we think the middle-of-the-road version is the best. Cotopaxi also makes the Allpa in 28-liter and 42-liter sizes. But for us, the 35-liter bag is the best option. At 42 liters, this bag becomes heavy for most people to carry when it is fully packed, and we’d prefer that it had a more-robust hip belt. At 28 liters, the bag becomes a touch small for most people, and its internal organization feels fussy for shorter trips, such as an overnight. Cotopaxi also makes a hip pack , which is designed to fit snugly into the Allpa bag’s front top compartment. It’s a neat little addition to the bag, and it is worth getting if you like wearing fanny packs while you travel.

It’s organized, easy to pack, and easy to carry. The Allpa bag has a clamshell design, so it opens like a hard-sided suitcase—a large YKK zipper runs around three sides of the bag, allowing it to fall open into two halves when unzipped. On the right side is a deep compartment, spacious enough for two large packing cubes or half a suitcase’s worth of clothing (which you access through a mesh zippered flap). On the left, there’s space for one more medium-size packing cube behind a zippered flap. Above that there are two smaller pockets with high-visibility backing—useful when you’re looking for hard-to-differentiate personal items.

It’s secure but still accessible. The Allpa pack has two side-access zippers—great for on-the-go access, especially when the bag is hanging from your shoulder. One of these reveals a flat computer pocket with a padded false bottom; so if you drop the bag, it won’t land on the corner of your computer. The other reveals a “secret” pocket with a hidden zipper and access to the main compartment. All of the main compartment zippers are protected by security loops, which you thread the zipper through at the end of its run. This prevents anyone from subtly or quickly grabbing a zipper and opening your bag when you aren’t paying attention.

It’s comfortable to carry. The Allpa bag’s hip belt—which can be removed while the bag is on your back—is substantial enough that it’s comfortable to wear when you need it. With or without the hip belt, the Allpa bag is comfortable to carry over long distances. However, folks who have longer torsos (over 19 inches) may find that the waist belt sits a little high off the hips, unless you fully extend the shoulder straps. Speaking of shoulder straps, unlike the ones on our other picks, the Allpa bag’s straps are contoured to fit people who have large or small chests. It’s not a specifically gendered design, but our female tester noticed the improvement right away.

The Allpa pack is made with 1680-denier ballistic nylon, similar to the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 45 . (Denier is a measure of a fabric’s fiber thickness.) It feels similar to a strong canvas, but it has a more prominent weave. This is the type of bag that’s as easy to toss into an overhead compartment as it is into the back of a rusty pickup truck. And it also includes a rainfly, which is unique in this category.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• Though this pack is well organized for packing, it’s less ideal as a mobile office. The Allpa pack has a minimal amount of administrative organization—places to keep pens and papers, spaces to hold tickets, and so forth. This is where a good personal item comes in handy. However, if you want to travel with just this one bag, there are a few nooks you can hide things in. The front organizer is deep enough that you can also fit several small organizing pouches, if you want, or the aforementioned fanny pack.
• We prefer the model without the TPU front. Cotopaxi does enjoy playing around with fabrics and colors. Sometimes the company has released the Allpa pack without the TPU-lined front panel. The TPU panel improves water resistance, but after many years of traveling with our bag, we’ve found that the TPU layering can begin to flake in spots.

Capacity: 35 liters Weight: 3 pounds 5 ounces Main compartment access: clamshell opening Style: adventurous Colors: assorted

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

An easily customizable large bag for long trips and expensive gear.

This bag was built with photographers in mind. Yet most travelers will appreciate its easy accessibility, clever tuck-away straps, and the elegant way the bag expands and contracts. The accessory cubes cost extra, though.

The Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is a good choice for those carrying more expensive gear—especially camera gear. It’s also great for those who prefer a large, backpack-based packing system.

One bag provides many configurations. Some bags in this category are built to do one thing extremely well—be carried on your back. But the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is built to adapt. It’s the Swiss Army knife of backpacks: adjustable, customizable, and (if you spring for the extra cubes and organizers) an almost perfect system for a photographer or gearhead on the move. Most bags’ expanding mechanisms aren’t worth the extra zipper they’re built on, and they look about as attractive as a boiled ham splitting out of its plastic packaging. That’s not the case with the Peak Design: This bag looks just as good fully packed at 45 liters as it does compressed to a 30-liter daypack.

It’s expandable, with clever folds and zippers. You can access the bag through a back panel (which doubles as a computer and tablet pouch) as well as a front one (if you unzip the pass-through divider). You can also get into the main compartment via two wing-like trapezoidal flaps, which run along each side of the pack. In its natural shape, the Travel Backpack holds 35 liters, but an expansion zipper lets the bag swell to 45 liters. If you want to use the bag as a daypack, you fold in the top corners and snap them down, reducing the bag’s volume to a slim 30 liters. In this configuration, it will still feel larger than a normal daypack, but we think that’s a small compromise for being able to use one backpack as both your travel bag and your daily explorer. The bag itself consists of 400-denier nylon and polyester fabrics. It feels tough but not as tough as some other bags we’ve tested, such as the Cotopaxi Allpa.

It has fold-away straps, for easier storage. The Peak Design lets you tuck its shoulder and hip straps away when you’re not using them. But unlike any other bag we’ve ever tested, this pack has magnetic flaps on the back panel that open and close with an almost magical snap. Once you’ve played with them, you’ll wonder why every backpack doesn’t have something similar. A small, childish part of me still gets excited about tucking away the straps when I put the Peak Design into an overhead bin. Although the straps are thin, they’re still comfortable. The hip belt isn’t quite as plush as the one on the Tortuga pack; still, even when the Peak Design is fully loaded, the belt doesn’t pinch or dig into the body.

It’s great for carrying expensive gear. If you travel with a camera, you don’t have to use Peak Design’s camera cubes , but they do make carrying that gear a whole lot easier. The cubes come in five sizes. And if they’re situated properly in the bag with the provided clips, they line up with the Travel Backpack’s side-access flaps for quick access. Caleigh Waldman (a photographer for this piece and, full disclosure, my spouse) took this bag across the country for a wedding shoot. “I want this backpack,” she said after three weeks of travel. “I want to travel with it everywhere. With my cameras. Without my cameras. It doesn’t matter. I want to travel with it.”

• It’s expensive—especially if you commit to the entire system of packing and camera cubes.
• More complexity means more things that can break. The adjustable design and multiple zippers do add complexity, and complexity adds potential weaknesses. Peak Design covers all of its bags with a lifetime warranty , which should alleviate most people’s concerns. But if you’re particularly hard on your gear and still need to carry as much as possible, you might consider the Tortuga bag instead.

Capacity: 45 liters Weight: 4½ pounds Main compartment access: back-panel loader Style: minimalist and unobtrusive Color: black, sage

Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L

Combines more organization with a simple interior.

This bag’s split interior makes organizing easy. Those who travel for work will appreciate this bag’s dedicated panels for organizing tech, books, papers, and assorted miscellaneous items.

If you travel often for business and prefer a bag that’s much easier to work out of than most of our other picks, you may like the Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L . This bag has a front panel and assorted pockets that make it feel like a small traveling office.

It’s built like luggage but organized like your office. Of all the bags we recommend, the MLC (short for Maximum Legal Carry) comes closest to being a suitcase on your back, due to its large size, simple interior, and minimal external features. The MLC is also one of the simplest bags we tested, divided into two leaves (imagine a book with only one page), with a main compartment for packing and a second compartment for document organization and tech storage. The MLC has a built-in laptop compartment that fits 17-inch laptops and is situated close to your back; this protects the computer and keeps its weight closer to your body.

Despite its size, it’s comfortable enough to carry. Most carry-on backpacks of this size, without frames, become somewhat unwieldy when fully packed. Thankfully, the Black Hole MLC bag, like the Cotopaxi Allpa, is a welcome exception to this rule. The MLC has two shoulder straps, a hip belt, and an optional shoulder strap, for easy carrying. When they're not in use, or when you’re checking your bag, all of the straps can be stowed away easily. When fully loaded, the bag was pleasant to carry—not as comfortable as the Peak Design or the Osprey, but decent enough. I wouldn’t want to carry it all day across a city, but I wouldn’t mind carrying it through an airport to a car and to a hotel.

It’s built from high-quality materials, with durability in mind. This pack is made from recycled polyester, and the fabric is woven in a cross-weave that’s very similar to what Patagonia uses in its long-lasting Black Hole series of duffle bags . This is a material I’ve come across a bunch with Patagonia gear, and I’ve tested it thoroughly; it’s very tough. The front of the bag is coated in a weather-resistant TPU, for extra protection from the elements. The bag has large YKK zippers (the industry leader) and smaller YKK zippers throughout. Unlike the Cotopaxi Allpa pack, the Black Hole MLC bag has no security loops.

It comes with one of the best repair programs and a lifetime warranty. Similar to our other picks, the MLC is backed by an excellent lifetime warranty , and we’ve always found that Patagonia’s repair program goes above and beyond other comparable companies.

• We wish the Maximum Legal Carry (despite the name) came in a few more sizes. The 45-liter capacity may be intimidating for some people, and there is no alternative.

Capacity: 45 liters Weight: 3 pounds 10 ounces Main compartment access: clamshell Style: retro Colors: tan, black, olive, green

Osprey Farpoint 40

For long distances on foot.

A great starter option for one-bag travel, this bag is easy to pack, adaptable to most situations, and sturdy enough to take with you as you travel the world.

Osprey Fairview 40

For long distances and smaller torsos.

A scaled-down version of the Farpoint, this bag has shoulder straps that are slightly lower, to keep the bag’s bulk more aligned with smaller torsos.

Updated in 2023, the Osprey Farpoint 40 and Fairview 40 packs are both built around a hiking backpack frame that’s easy to carry over long distances.

It’s built for travel but designed for hiking. The Farpoint 40 bag is well made, easy to pack, and comfortable to carry over most mid-length distances—such as walking across a city for an afternoon. (For simplicity’s sake, everything we say here about the Farpoint bag also applies to the Fairview bag.) Osprey makes excellent backpacks for hauling around, and its lifetime warranty is renowned within the industry . The Farpoint pack also has an optional messenger bag–style strap, which offers some flexibility when you’re maneuvering tight spaces like subways or crowded city centers.

It’s simple to pack, but not as spacious as it seems. Opening the bag reveals a clamshell design; it’s deep enough to accommodate most large items, yet you won’t have to fumble awkwardly with zippers once it’s time to close up the bag. The feeling you get is not unlike when you’re packing a bit of sturdy luggage, and that’s something we love about bags like this one—especially when you use packing cubes . Osprey says this bag, when fully packed, can carry 40 liters. But after using the Farpoint bag for a few years, we’ve decided that its rounded shape seems to cut into that theoretical packable space more than other bags do. In practice, the Farpoint pack’s available space is closer to—but still less than—that of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L .

It’s the easiest bag to carry among our picks. Like all Osprey bags, the Farpoint 40 has very comfortable shoulder straps. The years of design and consideration Osprey has put into its hiking backpacks are quite evident in the Farpoint 40. After more than seven years of long-term testing this bag, we’re still surprised by how great it feels to wear when fully packed. Crucially, the straps of the Farpoint 40 stow away neatly behind a zippered panel. However, when you’re using the shoulder straps, the design forces you to also use the hip straps. Though this isn’t a huge issue, if you prefer a sleeker look or would rather have the option of using shoulder straps without hip straps, the Cotopaxi Allpa pack is more flexible, and it lets you hide the waist straps while the bag is on your back.

The Fairview 40 has the same features, in a scaled-down size. The Farpoint 40 and the Fairview 40 packs basically have the same design, but the Fairview pack is made for someone with a more-diminutive torso. It’s also slightly lighter. However, it has the features and durability of the Farpoint bag. It also has the same hip belt and adjustability. On both, the chest-strap clip is also equipped with a small security whistle that’s surprisingly loud. It’s a handy feature for anyone traveling in unfamiliar environments.

• For a smaller carry-on travel backpack, this one has little to not like. However, we do wish Osprey would trade some of the sleeker contours for a little more interior space.

Capacity: 35 liters Weight (Farpoint): 3 pounds 3 ounces Weight (Fairview): 3 pounds 2 ounces Main compartment access: front-panel loader Style: active Colors (Farpoint): green (Gopher), gray (Tunnel Vision), blue (Muted Space), black Colors (Fairview): blue (Winter Night), red (Zircon), blue (Night Jungle), black

Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L

A suitcase to carry on your back.

For dedicated single-bag travelers, this water-resistant, durable bag is easy to pack and to travel with. And it’s comfortable to wear over endless miles—as long as you don’t mind the heavier weight.

The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L maximizes packing space in a bag that’s durable, water-resistant, and customizable to fit most torso lengths (there’s also a 30L version ), with plenty of organizational features to suit any digital nomad.

It’s like a suitcase, with backpack straps. The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L is built to occupy the maximum carry-on space available. It’s a nearly perfect blend of backpack and luggage. On the outside, its tear-resistant sailcloth and sealed zippers provide ample protection from sharp objects and the elements. Opening the main clamshell zipper reveals a cavernous interior and a few organizational features that make the bag a cinch to pack. The front panel is a particular standout, great for keeping track of electronics and chargers. Of all the bags we tested, the Tortuga strikes the closest balance between the carrying comfort of a hiking backpack and the space and organization of a piece of luggage.

It’s as easy to pack as luggage. When it comes to packing, the Tortuga pack has a soothingly minimal interior, as any good suitcase should. In addition to the bag’s cavernous main pocket, its interior lid has a large vented panel. The panel is too narrow to hold additional packing cubes, but it’s great for holding light jackets or doubling as a dirty-laundry bag (if you’re really committed to one-bag travel). The Tortuga is available as a 40-liter pack (the maximum space for a carry-on bag), which we tested; there is also a 30-liter version, which is compliant with some intra-European flights. The more-diminutive version is a decent choice for weekend travel or for minimalist travelers—but for those uses, we prefer the space-saving profile and extra internal organization of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L bag.

It’s very customizable. The Tortuga pack is the most adjustable model we tested, thanks to its adjustable torso length, shoulder straps, and waist-belt system. The adjustable strap system lets you manipulate the location of the shoulder straps (video) to fit a wider variety of body sizes, in both the 30- and 40-liter versions. Of the packs we’ve tested, this one (with its included load-adjuster straps at the top, to prevent the bag’s weight from sagging toward your lumbar region) is the best at distributing its weight (4½ pounds when empty—roughly 1½ pounds more than most of our other picks, except the Peak Design ). The hip straps are removable if you need, but the shoulder straps are not stowable.

• Its straps don’t stow away. Some people, especially those who are hard on their gear, may consider not being able to remove or stow the shoulder straps (as they can with our other picks, like the Cotopaxi Allpa ) a disqualifying factor. But after years of testing, traveling with, and occasionally checking our bag, we haven’t had an issue. However, if these mysteries beneath the airport also make you nervous, you might prefer our picks with easy-to-stow straps, such as the Peak Design.
• It's heavy. We’ve also fielded complaints from some testers who said that older models of this bag were too heavy for them to carry, even with the padded hip belt and adjustable straps. The additional padding does add weight. At 4½ pounds, this latest Tortuga bag is more than half a pound lighter than it used to be—the difference is noticeable—and it weighs the same as the equally large Peak Design pack. But if you think you would struggle carrying this model, we strenuously encourage you to consider one of our more-manageable picks, like the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L.

Capacity: 40 liters Weight: 4½ pounds Main compartment access: clamshell opening Style: minimal, with a rigid construction Color: black

If you want to travel like a backpacker but also fit in at a board meeting (and you have the budget for it): Consider the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 45 . This bag’s reputation for durability, adaptability, and a low-key aesthetic make it a favorite among many dedicated one-bag travelers. And after testing it, we think it’s a great bag too. That said, for the bag to really stand out against other backpacks—and to take full advantage of its carrying adaptability—you need to buy the internal frame , the hip belt , and (if you’re traveling with a suit or jacket) the shoulder strap . On a bag that already costs $330, all of this adds up. Everything about the Tom Bihn bag (the fabric, the zippers, the quality of construction) feels like an upgrade from other bags, but it’s simply too pricey, and its design is too rarified and specific for most people. The biggest flaw, from our perspective—apart from the price—is that the Tom Bihn bag lacks a dedicated laptop pocket. In its place, the company sells laptop sleeves (a fine version if you don’t have one) that clip into the bag’s central compartment. Not everyone needs a dedicated laptop pocket, but we prefer the more secure feeling of bags that do.

If you want a budget pick (but only when it’s on sale): The eBags Mother Lode Travel Backpack (our former budget pick) is still your best budget option, if you can catch it on sale for at least half off the list price. It’s not comfortable enough for trekking long distances on foot, but there are plenty of external pockets for organization, a laptop sleeve (which holds the weight of your computer high up on your shoulders), and an easy-to-access main compartment. This pack also has the largest capacity of any bags we tested, expanding to 65 liters—well beyond any airline’s regulated 45-liter limit. However, the bag’s casual-to-basic looks might not be to everyone’s taste. In 2024, eBags raised the price of the Mother Lode to $200. We have seen it on sale for $100, and in our opinion it’s worth getting only at the sale price.

We’ve narrowed our specifications for a great bag to the following list of features, ordered from most relevant to least:

• Front- or back-panel loader or clamshell opening, for the main compartment: As with any good piece of luggage, with this type of bag, you should be able to open it and see everything you’ve packed. When you have a bag with a panel-loading or clamshell design—rather than a traditional, top-opening design—you can pack and unpack it just as you would a suitcase.

• Backpack strap comfort and design: You never know when you’ll be walking farther with your bag than you’d intended. The more comfortable and well designed the straps are, the easier traveling will be. “Ideally, you want a bag’s shoulder straps to adjust to the angle of your shoulders,” said Eytan Levy of Snarky Nomad. “Good shoulder straps are the difference between an easy trip and a hard trip.”
• Hip-belt comfort and design: A hip belt transfers heavy loads from your back and shoulders onto your hips, letting your legs—not your back—bear the brunt of the weight. Just having a waist belt is a plus, but having a padded and sculpted one—especially on bags with over 40 liters of volume—makes a world of difference.
• Material quality: Durability is critical for any type of luggage, but especially for a backpack that will be your only bag. Most bags worth considering are made of nylon, which resists abrasion more than polyester fabrics of similar density. Spending more, however, can get you exotic, light, and strong materials, such as Dyneema or sailcloth.
• Weight: Once the bags arrived, we weighed each one ourselves. Most of the bags weighed within a few pounds of one another. But unless you’re very strict with yourself, by the time you’re packed for a two-week journey, all bags are going to feel equally massive, even if one is just 2 pounds heavier than another when empty.
• Stowable straps: These are nice to have, but they aren’t absolutely necessary. “The more often you need to check a bag, the more often you need to hide away the straps,” Levy said. “But if the straps are tough enough, it doesn’t matter.”
• Accessory pocket layout and design: Some people will love an accessory pocket that has a specific space for everything; others may find that feature constricting and unadaptable. We prioritized bags with simple designs that guided our packing without constraining us.
• Style: This is purely subjective. We preferred bags that had a minimalist exterior style, but not all of our picks will please everyone. Most of the people we spoke with, however, preferred not to stick out like a tourist wearing a large, colorful backpack, if they could avoid it.

During testing, we flew across the country with these bags, took weekend trips to nearby cities, lived out of them on extended trips, and tried them locally in our daily routines. We also packed and unpacked each bag, using a standardized set of weeklong travel necessities and accessories, to see how well the internal organizational features (or lack thereof) aided or got in the way of efficient packing.

This is not a comprehensive list of all of the carry-on travel backpacks we have tested. We have removed any models that have been discontinued or that no longer meet our criteria.

The Away Outdoor Convertible Backpack 45L is a rare miss from the Away team. This bag is resoundingly average for the price. Although it’s made from excellent materials, the bag is let down by its overall design, which lacks any kind of structure or attention to comfort. There are better options.

The cheap, no-frills Cabin Max Metz bag is intriguing for the price. Any bag at this price should almost be considered disposable. That said, if you need a simple bag that costs less than a seat upgrade, this might be the way to go—unless you can pick up the eBags Motherlode bag for under $100, which we think is a better deal at that price.

The GeniusPack Travel Backpack is the only model we came across that tried to fit a suit into a travel backpack. Though some people might need that, we think those who have to travel with a suit (or clothes that require pressing) would be better off with a piece of carry-on luggage . GeniusPack now offers a second version of this bag, but our conclusion hasn’t changed.

For certain people, the GoRuck GR3 is almost worth the cost. It’s strong and simple and covered by an iron-clad repair guarantee. The removable hip belt is comfortable to wear, and it’s good at displacing the weight of a 45-liter backpack. This is a decent bag. After testing it, however, we weren’t thrilled with the internal Velcro lining for compatible Velcro packing cubes. Velcro isn’t great: It wears out, it’s difficult to keep clean, and it clings to dirt. That might seem like a small thing, but for the price, this bag should feel perfect.

The Minaal Carry-On 2.0 was designed to be a backpack for business people. But if you’re carrying it for business, you’re probably wearing at least a blazer, so you wouldn’t use a backpack in any case. If you’re a business traveler who falls more on the casual end of the business-casual spectrum, and you’re not on a budget, this is a well-thought-out pack. But we think our picks are more versatile for world travel, and they come at a better price. Minaal has since introduced a 3.0 version of this bag ; our thoughts about it remain the same.

The Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L is a slightly larger sibling of the Farpoint pack. The Sojourn Porter bag is about 2 inches longer, and it pushes right up to most airline limits. If you don’t mind possibly having to check your bag at the last minute, this would be an excellent alternative to the Farpoint pack.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Chase Reeves, Matterful.co , phone interview , October 10, 2018

Addison Ryan, moderator, r/onebag , email interview , September 8, 2018

Lindsay Lorraine Calderón, moderator, r/heronebag , phone interview , September 28, 2018

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

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

by Kit Dillon

A buy-it-for-a-lifetime backpack should last you for years of heavy use. But as with all investments, you need to decide if it makes sense for you.

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 Laptop Backpacks

by Zoe Vanderweide

A great laptop backpack protects your tech, is comfortable to carry, and looks good, too. These five bags are our favorites for wrangling your workday gear.

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Ultra-lightweight, durable fabrics make our foldable backpacks, travel totes, and duffels ideal as overnight bag  a day bag or as a personal carry-on. Nearly weightless, these travel bags give you the additional capacity you need without the bulk and fold up for compact storage when not in use. Features include a Travelpro® QuickSlip™ front pocket with magnetic closure–ideal for storing a cell phone or other essentials on the go and a rear stacking strap that fits around the extension handle of a Rollaboard® or spinner suitcase .

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The 8 Best Packable Backpacks to Carry When Traveling

When you’re traveling, you need an extra bag for the essentials — plus everything you end up adding to your suitcase before returning home.

By Meg Lappe

Traveling is one of the best parts of summer. While many of us here at Gear Patrol prefer to take only a bag that fits in a carry-on , sometimes the nature of the trip moves us to bring home more gear than we started with. The easy solution for that problem is a packable backpack. It stashes down into its own pocket, then expands to help us carry home the extra bottle of wine we couldn’t pass up, or that pair of leather boots that fit like a glove.

A few helpful hints: make sure the bag actually zips up into itself. If you can give it a try in the store, we highly recommend it. There’s nothing worse than not being able to get a bag compact again. The fabric should be pretty durable and ideally waterproof , so it can withstand being last-minute baggage checked at the airport and then tossed around with all the hard-sided suitcases. With all that in mind, here are a few of our favorites.

Eagle Creek Packable Daypack

The extra zipper pocket in front is a lifesaver. A lot of backpacks tend to be a one size fits all option with no storage dividers, but this one bucks that trend. It folds up to a small notebook size, and lies flat, so you can just stick it in a laptop pouch of any other bag you’re carrying, or pretty much anywhere else.

Sea to Summit Ultra Sil Day Pack

Made from rugged Cordura fabric, this mini-pack is sure to survive sweaty backs and baggage claim alike. The two-way zipper closure is easy-to-use and just makes sense. The variety of colors mean it makes a great gift for all future travel partners.

Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack

The main attraction on this bag is the side pocket that’s the ideal shape for a water bottle — a necessity when you check your larger backpack or duffel at the airport and need a spot to hold one. The dual zippers are a plus, and it folds down small enough to fit in the palm of your hand. Grab a carabiner and clip it to whatever bag you normally carry.

Tortuga Setout Packable Daypack

The all-black look makes this bag not scream ‘I’m a tourist.’ With vibes a la Lululemon, the curved top just looks nice and sleek. The 30D ripstop nylon with YKK zippers are durable and tough, so you can stuff the bag with an extra jacket, magazines to read and snacks, all with plenty of space to store all the extras you pick up along the way.

Gonex Ultralight Handy Travel Backpack

Padded straps mean you can pack this bag full of gear — pick up whatever souvenirs you want — and the bag won’t feel terrible if you walk around with it all day long. The three separate pockets keep your important belongings safe and easy to access. The high-quality water-repellent and tear-resistant material will last throughout all your trips.

AmazonBasics Ultralight Packable Day Pack

The 35-liter capacity on this is immense. For how hefty this bag looks, it’s surprising that it packs up so small. With mesh side pockets, a large main compartment and a vertical zipper pocket in the front, there’s plenty of space for you to store all your personal belongings, extra water bottles and guide books. The mesh-looking straps are breathable so you don’t end up with sweaty marks on your shoulders.

Matador Beast28 Packable Technical Backpack

Matador’s specialty is creating portable and long-lasting gear. The brand has dabbled in everything from a roll up towel to an eight-liter hydration pack to a pocket blanket. This 28-liter pack is designed to help you tackle any technical trail, but still fold up to fit in any suitcase. It’s tough enough to handle overnight treks, but small enough that it’s not the end of the world if you don’t use it.

L.L. Bean Stowaway Day Pack

The adjustable waistbelt takes a bit of the weight off of your shoulders, so if the bag gets too heavy, there’s no concern about feeling it the next day. The sternum strap provides added coverage and support. We like the stuff sack pocket in the front, which helps keep anything you need to have access to handy.

Looking to take on a multi-day backpacking adventure? Picking the right pack is crucial. These are the best packs available in every size. Read the Story

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The 14 Best Carry-on Backpacks of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

These spacious and comfortable carry-on backpacks can easily replace a suitcase.

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Travel + Leisure/Joy Kim

Skip the stress of checking in a bag or lugging a traditional carry-on suitcase around an airport by adding a carry-on backpack to your travel gear. Practical, functional, and hassle-free, a carry-on backpack can fit up to a week’s worth of clothes, depending on your wardrobe and packing prowess. Whether you’re backpacking through Europe or embarking on a weekend getaway, this style helps make your trip as efficient and enjoyable as possible.

We tested dozens of carry-on backpacks and evaluated them based on traits like capacity, comfort, durability, and design. First, we tested the backpacks in our New York City lab and utilized our airplane set complete with row of real plane seats and overhead storage bins. We then took them out into the world for six months to further test each bag on a variety of trips. From rugged to sleek styles, we tested plenty of carry-on backpacks ranging in design and size that impressed us.

Best Overall

Cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack.

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

The backpack has an unstructured style that makes it easy to pack clothing and accessories, plus a plethora of thoughtful features catered to frequent travelers.

There isn’t a designated water bottle holder.

Salt Lake City-based outdoor gear brand Cotopaxi builds brightly colored clothing and accessories to last. The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack earned our top pick as the best carry-on backpack with its perfect performance in all categories of our testing. We loved its high capacity and thought the unstructured style was ideal for wedging clothes into every corner, maximizing packing space in the clamshell-style compartments. The shell is made of a TPU-coated 1000D polyester with a rubbery feel, and although it feels resistant to liquids, the backpack comes with a rain cover to ensure that your belongings stay dry while traveling. Handles on all four sides of the backpack make it easy to carry and lift into an overhead bin from any angle. The only downside to the bag is that it doesn't have a water bottle holder on the sides, so you'll have to carry one or try to fit it in the top pocket in the front.

We think this durable Cotopaxi bag will remain in excellent condition no matter how many times it hits the road, as it was not damaged at all after we repeatedly tossed it onto the ground. The rubber texture also seemed easy to clean and resistant to liquid spills. After six months of regularly using the bag, we found that it's the perfect size for long weekend trips and helps keep all of our items organized and easy to access. Both stylish and functional, this backpack can even be made one-of-a-kind by choosing the surprise colors option when purchased through Cotopaxi’s website.

The Details: 35 liters | 20 x 12 x 8 inches | 3.8 pounds | TPU-coated 1000D polyester, nylon | Padded laptop sleeve

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Travel + leisure / Jhett Thompson

Best Convertible

Away f.a.r. convertible backpack 45l.

• Design 4.5 /5

We love how comfortable it is on your shoulders and back thanks to the soft materials and cushioned shoulder straps.

At nearly 22 inches tall, this pack may be too long for those with shorter torsos.

You'll be surprised by just how spacious this backpack is. The main compartment opens up like a clam shell for easy access to items that allowed us to fit an entire four-day packing list with ease — plus a few extra items. There are multiple large compartments, compression straps, and a few pockets in this backpack that are ideal for organizing clothes, gear, and accessories. While the 45-liter backpack can grow heavy when completely filled, the padded shoulder straps are supportive and keep you comfortable when walking for long periods of time. Plus, the convenient duffel handles allow you to switch up your carrying style if you do grow fatigued.

This backpack also sports a well-padded laptop sleeve that protected our testing laptop when we threw the fully packed bag off a counter three times. There was also no sign of rips, scuffs, or tears in the bag's fabric after our tests. This water- and abrasion-resistant backpack would be perfect for avid travels who are looking for a sleek backpack to take them from city explorations to camping adventures.

The Details: 45 liters | 21.7 x 13.6 x 9.5 inches | 3.32 pounds | Water-resistant

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Best Budget

Asenlin 40l travel backpack.

It’s spacious and comes with three packing cubes to stay organized while traveling. 

After six months of use, the bag is scuffed up with noticeable scratches.

Perfect for travelers on a budget, the Asenlin 40L Travel Backpack impressed us with its packing features and comfortable fit. We thought the bag provided excellent organization thanks to the interior and exterior compression that provided extra room for packing. The backpack comes with three different packing cubes in small, medium, and large. We also like that this backpack includes both a suitcase strap and a handle to hold it horizontally. The backpack itself also features straps inside and a laptop sleeve to easily hold down items and pack electronics.

The design didn’t blow us away like those from some of the more costly brands, but it does have a laptop sleeve and a water bottle holder. We also liked the flexibility of being able to wear the Asenlin as a backpack, hold it like a briefcase, or use the trolley sleeve to slide it onto a roller suitcase’s handle. However, a bigger adjustment range for the chest strap would have been ideal. During our durability tests, the backpack didn’t scuff or show signs of damage. We think this budget pick is well worth the low price for those looking to get a durable, comfortable, and spacious carry-on backpack. 

The Details: 40 liters | 18.5 x 12.5 x 9.5 inches | 2.7 pounds | Polyester | 17-inch laptop pocket

Best Traditional

Samsonite silhouette 17 backpack.

• Design 4 /5
• Durability 4 /5

Thanks to its clamshell design, it’s like a suitcase without wheels.

Some of the straps weren’t intuitive to use.

The Samsonite Silhouette 17 Backpack is ideal for travelers who like the structure and sleek, minimalist style of a traditional suitcase but want the portability of a backpack. We love that this bag opens like a suitcase, making it easy to access everything inside. There was plenty of space leftover after packing the backpack, and the classic clamshell opening allowed for easy access to items in the compression-strapped main compartment and the zippered pockets on the inside of the front flap. All of the interior and exterior pockets, including the water bottle holder and padded laptop sleeve, are useful for traveling. You can convert the backpack to wear as a duffel bag or a briefcase, and it has a rear strap to place on a rolling suitcase if desired. The straps were easy to adjust, and it felt like the weight was nicely distributed thanks to the structured style of the backpack. There was a small scuff on the bag after we tossed it on the floor during our durability tests, but the contents of the backpack remained unharmed. When flying with the bag during our six-month testing period, we found that it easily fits in airplane overhead bins and under the seat. Overall, it’s a backpack with the features of a well-compartmentalized suitcase and much more.

The Details: 13 x 20.5 x 10.5 inches | 3.31 pounds | Polyester, recyclex | Padded laptop pocket | Convertible straps

Best for Photographers

Peak design travel backpack 45l.

• Value 4.5 /5

You can access the main compartment on the bag from four different exterior zippers.

This is one of the most expensive backpack on our list.

This 45-liter backpack has a main compartment that is spacious enough to fit clothes for at least four days, and its expansive design is helpful for packing bulky items like jackets and shoes. Placing the clothes and shoes into the bag during testing was efficient and simple thanks to a removable divider sleeve and compression straps to hold everything down securely. Designed with photographers in mind, this backpack functions similarly to a camera bag . It can fit camera cubes, and it has four points of entry to the main compartment, allowing travelers to quickly grab clothes or accessories without unzipping the backpack. There is a padded laptop sleeve and stretchy side pockets for water bottles or a camera tripod. 

Peak Design didn’t let any space go to waste on its backpack, so even the hip belt has a small pocket on it for storage and can be packed away when you’re not looking for extra support. It’s also easy to adjust all of the straps to prevent weight imbalances and pinching. Made of weatherproof and water-resistant recycled nylon, the bag held up perfectly after we tossed it on the ground, showing no signs of scuffs or damage — exactly what you want in a durable backpack . Although the price of this bag is steep, it comes with plenty of helpful features for travelers, and the stellar performance leads us to believe that it would last a long time. 

  The Details: 45 liters | 13 x 22 x 9.5 inches | 4.8 pounds | Nylon, polyester | Laptop sleeve | Expandable

Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph

Best Compression

Tropicfeel shell backpack.

• Comfort 4 /5

It can be converted from 40 liters for traveling to 22 liters to use as a daypack. 

The handle on the top of the bag wasn’t as comfortable to hold onto as we hoped. 

We love this backpack’s thoughtful features geared toward all types of travelers. The Tropicfeel Shell Backpack has the ability to store up to 42 liters worth of clothing for a weekend or week-long trip, but you can also use it as a 20-liter backpack for day trips, sightseeing, and everyday use. After regularly using the bag for six months, we found it to be incredibly sturdy and durable. We had no issues fitting our full packing list and found that there was plenty more room thanks to the variety of buckled straps that allow you to adjust the size of the bag. You can loosen the front buckle to allow the roll-up opening flap to expand to fit more items, and there is a kangaroo pouch at the bottom of the backpack that provides an additional six liters of space for shoes or other items you want to keep separate. There’s also a padded compartment in the back of the backpack that can fit laptops up to 17 inches long. We thought the backpack was comfortable to wear after adjusting the shoulder and waist straps, but we found that it might take some effort to get the buckles into your desired setting. 

The Shell Backpack didn’t show any signs of damage throughout testing, and the material is weather-proof. For travelers looking to add upgrades to their backpack, the brand has an organization system and accessory pouches that you can add on for additional fees. If you need an all-in-one backpack, we think this backpack’s versatility makes it well worth the higher cost. 

The Details: 20-42 liters | 12 x 20 x 7.5 inches

Best Organization

Topo designs global travel bag 30l.

Topo Designs

• Capacity 4 /5

There are tons of pockets and a laptop compartment to help you organize your belongings.

After six months of use, we noticed the bag can feel quite heavy if packed full.

Packing for a trip can often feel tedious, but the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L helps make it easy and efficient. We loved how convenient it is to store a laptop up to 15 inches in the padded compartment in the back of the bag, and there are two front pockets for easy access to a tablet or phone charger. There are a ton of compartments and pockets that offer plenty of options for staying organized with small or loose items in the absence of packing cubes, with places to stash cords, travel documents, electronics, water bottles, and more.

The adjustable shoulder straps and straps that go across the chest and waist help evenly distribute the backpack's weight, making it more comfortable to carry around, although we noticed during our long-term testing that the bag can still feel heavy if you pack it completely full. The 100 percent recycled nylon material felt durable and would likely stay in good condition over time. 

The Details: 30 liters | 12.5 x 20 x 7 inches

Best Customizable

Roam the continental.

• Capacity 4.5 /5
• Comfort 4.8 /5

You can choose from four colors to customize the shade of the front, back, sides, and straps of the backpack. 

The laptop sleeve isn’t padded.

Customized luggage can be hard to come by, but Roam’s The Continental backpack makes it easier than ever to build the carry-on backpack of your dreams. The front, back, sides, and straps of the bag can be red, green, black, or blue, or you can keep the backpack all one color for a monochromatic look. We were a bit worried about the light colors when we first got our hands on this bag, but after four months of traveling, is has no signs of wear and tear, there are no stains or loose threads, and everything is still in good shape. We were also impressed by the exterior pockets to stash headphones, snacks, chargers, water bottles, or anything else you could need whether lounging in the airport or mid-flight. The bag is made with a lightweight, water-repellent fabric and YKK zippers so it easily handles temperamental weather while traveling. Spacious and easy to access, the front flap opens wide so packing the bag with clothes and shoes was a breeze, too. The laptop pocket in the back could easily fit a 17-inch device, but it isn’t padded, so you may want to store your computer in a case to be on the safe side. 

The Details: 26 liters | 17.75 x 14 x 8 inches | 2.4 pounds | Water-repellent fabric | Laptop pocket

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Best Expandable

Nomatic travel pack.

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

The expandable zippers add an extra 3.5 inches of space which increases the capacity to 30 liters.

Some of the pockets feel unnecessary.

The Nomatic Travel Pack is the ultimate versatile carry-on backpack thanks to its expandable zippers that add an extra 10 liters of space. Ideal for an overnight trip or a long weekend getaway, the bag has a variety of pockets and compartments to efficiently organize shoes, clothes, accessories, and technology. While the number of pockets on the interior was a bit overwhelming at first, travelers who like to be extra organized will appreciate the designated padded laptop sleeve, sunglasses case, discrete passport pocket, and plethora of slip and zippered pockets in the main compartment. The handles and padded shoulder straps are comfortable for carrying the bag, and the small-to-medium size of the backpack makes it super comfortable to carry since it doesn’t feel bulky or heavy. We used this bag on a variety of international trips throughout four months of testing, and it still looks new, despite rough handling and being shoved under airplane seats.

The Details: 20 liters (expands to 30 liters) | 18.5 x 12 x 6-9.5 inches | 4.16 pounds | 16-inch laptop pocket

• Travel + Leisure/Jessica Juliao

Matein Travel Backpack

• Durability 4.3 /5

It has several compartments for keeping clothing, shoes, tech, and accessories organized.

The materials feel a little lower in quality than other backpacks we tried.

If you’re not ready to invest in a pricier carry-on backpack, you can always dip your toes with this functional and spacious one for under $60. This 40-liter backpack has one large main compartment that can fit several tops, bottoms, and a toiletry case without any issues. We particularly love the separate footwear compartment to prevent the bottom of your shoes from coming into contact with clean clothes and that storage can even fit pairs up to size 12. In addition, there is a laptop pocket and a large front pocket with spots to put items like phone chargers, headphones, and other small accessories that could get lost easily. Compared to the pricier bags we tried, this one feels a bit lower in quality, but none of the nylon fabric tore and scuffed during our durability tests, so we still think this bag has a good lifespan ahead of it. 

The Details: 40 liters | 20 x 13 x 8 inches | 2 pounds | Water-repellent nylon

Best for Hiking

Kühl eskape 25.

The 25-liter capacity makes this backpack versatile for an airplane or the great outdoors.

It takes some adjustments to get it to fit comfortably on the back.

This rugged carry-on backpack from Kühl is the perfect option for travelers embarking on an outdoor adventure. The smaller size of this bag is its greatest strength since it can easily fit enough clothes for a weekend trip, or you can use it as an adventure pack for day hikes or camping trips. There are a variety of thoughtful features for hikers including a stowaway hip belt for extra support while trekking, load-lifting shoulder straps, and the bag is made with durable TPU-laminated nylon. Plus, the chest strap slides up and down the shoulder straps so travelers can get the most comfortable fit for their upper body. We found that it takes some extra effort to adjust all of the straps for the right fit, but once you do, the bag is comfortable to carry for long periods of time. For even more versatility, the bag has a padded laptop pocket and a variety of other small and large zippered pockets to stay organized if you’re commuting or traveling for work. 

The Details: 25 liters | 20.5 x 9.5 x 12.5 inches | Waterproof nylon | 17-inch laptop pocket

Best Waterproof

Tortuga travel backpack.

This bag is basically a suitcase without wheels thanks to its large capacity and clamshell-style opening.

The bag can feel a bit heavy to carry when it’s fully packed.

If you’re traveling somewhere with a rainy climate, you’ll want a carry-on backpack like this one from Tortuga that can ward off the elements. It’s made with the brand’s 100 percent recycled and waterproof Shell200 or “sailcloth” material to protect your belongings and prevent bad weather from putting a serious damper on your trip. During a rainy overnight camping trip, the Tortuga Travel Backpack essentially sat in a puddle for hours, yet none of our gear or clothing inside got wet at all, and the bag was easy to clean with just a wet cloth.

This is a seriously spacious bag at 40 liters, so we found that you can seamlessly fit a week’s worth of clothing (or more) between the two clamshell compartments. Because of the split style of the bag, packing it up is hassle-free since it’s easy to see exactly how much space is left on each side. And if you run out of space in the main compartments, there are top, front, and side exterior pockets to store a laptop, accessories, water bottles, and more items that you’ll want to have handy while traveling.

The Details: 40 liters | 21.7 x 13.8 x 7.9 inches | 4.5 pounds | Waterproof sailcloth | 16-inch laptop pocket

Travel + Leisure / Taylor Fox

Everlane ReNew Transit Backpack

This lightweight backpack has a sleek and 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, Everlane’s The ReNew Transit Backpack is the perfect fit. Functional and contemporary, we found it to be best suited for weekend trips 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 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. We liked how it can fit under an airplane seat, making it a versatile backpack for traveling with or without other pieces of luggage. There is a laptop sleeve in the back of the bag as well as a water bottle holder on the side and a front zippered pocket below the folding magnetic lock. With four earthy tones to choose from, this is a bag to fit all travel style preferences. 

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

Best for Foot Travel

Osprey fairview 40.

The compartments and various straps made packing effortless. 

It’s a large bag, but it wasn’t so heavy that it was uncomfortable to wear.

For travelers journeying on foot, the Osprey Fairview wowed us with its spacious interior and comfortable fit. The straps for walking longer distances are really the best part — making your bag feel like you're carrying less since the weight is so well distributed. The bags have the same storage capacity and general style, but Osprey’s women’s backpacks are designed to fit a smaller torso with waist and chest harnesses that sit upward and outward for a more comfortable carry. In testing, the main compartment and mesh zippered pouch on the front flap proved to be spacious. There are two internal compression straps and one external strap that kept belongings secure through our rough handling, so we think the bag would provide sufficient protection if you do need to check it in for a flight. 

We appreciated the padded shoulder straps and back that made wearing the backpack comfortable, despite the weight of its contents. The Osprey Fairview bags have an internal suspension the brand calls “LightWire” that distributes the weight from the harness to the hip belt, and our shoulders didn’t hurt after carrying the backpack since most of the weight shifted to the lower body.

The Details: 40 liters | 22 x 14 x 9 inches

Travel + Leisure /Jhett Thompson

Other Carry-on Backpacks We Liked

While we tested plenty of high-scoring carry-on backpacks, there were some that almost made our list but didn’t quite make the cut due to several weaknesses revealed during testing. 

Bellroy Transit Backpack Plus : We loved the adjustable sternum and waist straps that you can tuck into the bag when not in use, but we think there are better bags out there for a fraction of the price. 

AmazonBasics Carry-on Travel Backpack : It had plenty of compartments for staying organized and the material felt durable, but there weren’t any standout features that made it a must-have backpack. 

Vancropak Carry-on Backpack, Extra Large 40L : This backpack fits all of the packing items, and it even fits under an airplane seat, but our budget pick performed slightly better and it costs less. 

On two separate occasions, we tested carry-on backpacks in our New York City lab to make sure we were creating this list with the best options from trusted luggage brands. For our latest tests, we built a specially designed airplane set that includes a row of real airplane seats and an overhead storage bin. To date, we've put over 34 carry-on backpacks through a series of trials that compared capacity, design, comfort, durability, and overall value. After completing our in-house testing, we sent the backpacks out with our Travel + Leisure editors to give us insight on how they fared during real-world travel. We have been updating this article with long-term testing insights as soon as they become available. 

To test for capacity, we began by packing the bags with three shirts, two pairs of pants, one jacket, one pair of shoes, and a toiletry bag. We noted if any space was leftover as well as how functional the compartments were for organizing the contents packed. We evaluated the overall design of the bags by paying attention to how they fold out, how well the zippers and buckles work, and the functionality of each pocket or compartment. 

Next, we put on the backpacks and walked around for 10 minutes to rate comfortability. The highest scoring backpacks were exceptionally enjoyable to wear with the weight evenly distributed on the shoulders or hips.

Then, we threw the backpacks a few feet or off a countertop to test for durability. The highest-rated bags had no scuffs or tears after rough handling, and the packed items inside remained unharmed as well. 

Our testers had no previous knowledge of the cost of each backpack until after testing was completed. This allowed us to give an unbiased rating of overall values, where the top bags were determined to be fairly priced based on a high-quality performance, especially for the pricier bags. After our lab tests, the backpacks were sent out for real-world testing for up to six months.

Tips for Buying a Carry-on Backpack

Consider under-the-seat versus carry-on bags.

Not all carry-on backpacks will fit under the seat of an airplane, but if that’s your intended use, we recommend checking an airline’s underseat dimensions before heading to the airport. Similarly, with a carry-on backpack for the overhead bin, you’ll want to double-check the airline’s carry-on size restrictions to avoid paying unwanted fees if the bag is stuffed full of clothes. 

Keep in mind what the bag will be used for

For those traveling by foot, a smaller, lightweight backpack would be better for portability and comfort. For those traveling by air, a compression bag or backpack that has plentiful organization could be a better choice so you get the most out of the limited airline baggage space.

During our test, we packed three shirts, two pants, one jacket, one pair of shoes, and a toiletry bag into each bag and often had extra space for more clothes. Many backpacks come with a laptop compartment , but you’ll want to make sure that feature is included before purchasing yours.

Carry-on size restrictions vary by airline, and it’s possible for a carry-on backpack to not fit within some limits. Most bags will have a product details section highlighting the dimensions of the backpack. If you’re looking to fit the bag solely under the seat , you should check to make sure the bag fits the dimensions while it’s packed.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Anna Popp is a commerce writer at T+L, where she reviews travel products and writes the majority of the team's "Travel + Leisure Trusted" articles. Anna owns several carry-on backpacks, including the top pick from Cotopaxi, so she combined knowledge of traveling with just a backpack and the thorough lab testing and real-world insights to put together this list of the best carry-on backpacks.

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