10 Ultimate Travel Backpacks You’ll Love

Imagine starting your dream vacation. You’re planning to explore the magical landscapes of Iceland. With your reliable backpack, you’re set for any adventure. It holds everything from a light jacket to essential travel packs.

As you climb the Skógafoss waterfall, your backpack’s comfort lets you enjoy the views. It’s perfect for various journeys, from business trips abroad to hikes in nature. The best travel backpacks blend practicality with style. They become a must-have for every trip.

Finding the right travel buddy for your back takes some thought. You could choose lightweight bags for agility or tough ones for harsh weather. Our guide looks at different types, like travel daypacks and laptop backpacks. We’ve tested them to find the best for any adventurer.

Travel experts have spent a decade testing to recommend the top 10 backpacks. They ensure your trips are better, wherever you go.

Key Takeaways

• Discover the best travel backpacks designed for both extreme adventures and urban explorations.
• Choose from lightweight travel backpacks to ensure ease and comfort during your trips.
• Explore durable travel backpacks that withstand wear-and-tear in rugged terrains.
• Consider travel daypacks and laptop backpacks for travel to keep up with your organizational needs.
• Top 10 choices are based on extensive testing and real-world usage by travel experts.

Get ready for your next trip with our top 10 travel backpack picks. From the adaptable Nomatic Travel Pack to the well-organized Tortuga Outbreaker, find your ideal travel mate here.

Top Features to Look for in Travel Backpacks

Finding the right travel backpack means looking at key features that affect how you travel. You’ll want a balance of size, how heavy it is, how it feels to wear, and how long it lasts.

Capacity

Choosing the right size for your travel backpack is important. For a short weekend trip, a backpack that holds 25-30 liters is good. But for longer trips, you might need one that holds 30-45 liters.

Big backpacks have a lot of room for your things. They come with features like special openings, different sections, and pockets to keep organized.

Durability

If you travel a lot, you need a backpack that can handle it. Backpacks made from strong materials like nylon that doesn’t tear and polyester are best. They also have tough parts like Duraflex buckles and YKK zippers.

This makes sure your backpack lasts a long time. Antimicrobial linings help too by stopping bad smells from wet clothes or food.

Weight and Comfort

The backpack’s weight and how comfortable it is are super important. Go for light materials that are still strong.

Look for backpacks designed to make carrying them easier. They have soft straps, padded back areas, and waist straps. This helps spread out the weight so you’re not just feeling it in one place.

Comfort is key, so choosing a backpack with good design like clamshell openings or frames that help with weight helps a lot. This makes the backpack great for any trip you’re planning.

Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L Review

The Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L is a top choice among versatile travel backpacks. It’s known for its high capacity and unique design. This review will highlight its key features and how they’re useful to travelers.

Storage & Protection

The Sojourn Porter offers a spacious 46 liters, making it ideal for both short and long trips. It uses recycled materials that are strong and sustainable. Your tech stays safe in a large, padded laptop area.

Inside, three pockets help organize your things, while outside pockets make grabbing essentials easy. This design keeps your travel smooth and hassle-free.

Comfort & Fit

This backpack’s design puts your comfort first, especially during long wears. It has chest and hip belts to evenly spread the load, minimizing discomfort. The foam back panel lets air flow, keeping you cool.

In tests, it carried over 20 pounds with ease. That makes it a top pick for those with a lot to pack.

Versatility

The versatility of the Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L is impressive. It easily switches from a backpack to a duffel, fitting a range of travel needs. With special straps, it also works well with Osprey daypacks.

Its design makes moving through crowds simple. The backpack does well for active travelers, although hiding the straps can be a bit slow.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:
  • Generous 46L capacity, suited for all types of trips
  • Durable, eco-friendly materials
  • Comfort-focused design
  • Works well with other daypacks for extra space
• Cons:
  • May get bulky when full
  • Strap hiding takes time

Best Travel Backpack on a Budget: Osprey Daylite Carry-On 35

Looking for affordable travel backpacks that also offer quality? The Osprey Daylite Carry-On 35 is a top pick. It’s ideal for those who want something cost-effective yet durable and comfy.

This backpack has a 35-liter capacity, enough for 2-3 day trips. It’s made from 300D ripstop polyester, keeping it light but tough. Though thin, the material is strong enough for regular use.

It is designed with travelers in mind. The backpack has a big main compartment with easy access. It includes two straps to secure your stuff and a padded laptop pouch.

During tests, the Osprey Daylite showed great top and side protection. However, its bottom was vulnerable in rain tests. Still, its storage and organizational features stand out amongst budget travel backpacks.

The backpack features Osprey’s Airscape back panel for comfort. This technology improves airflow and support, reducing fatigue. Yet, it needs to be fully packed to maintain its shape, an aspect to consider for light travelers.

It’s light but doesn’t skimp on practical features. There’s a luggage strap for easy attachment to rolling luggage, simplifying airport navigation.

You can choose from five colors, suiting various styles. Although it lacks a waist strap, its benefits make it appealing for those seeking affordable travel backpacks.

The Osprey Daylite Carry-On 35 excellently balances affordability with performance. It stands out as a smart choice for budget-aware travelers wanting budget travel backpacks.

Best Travel Backpacks for Hiking Adventures

Outdoor lovers need hiking backpacks that are tough, light, and can handle weather. The best ones use strong materials to last and protect against weather. Here are some top picks for your hiking trips.

Top Hiking Backpack Models

The Osprey Sojourn Porter and Cotopaxi Allpa are top hiking backpacks. The Osprey has a 46-liter space, enough for your gear, and is 3.7 lbs. The Cotopaxi Allpa, at 3 lbs. 8 oz., offers 35 liters for a good balance of size and weight.

Lightweight and Durable Choices

Light travel backpacks can also be sturdy. The Peak Design Travel Backpack can hold 35 to 45 liters and adapts to your needs. The Amazon Basics model has a 40-liter capacity but is still very light at 3 lbs. 10.2 oz. Both are made to last with quality materials.

Weather Resistance

Different landscapes need weather-resistant backpacks. The Cotopaxi Allpa uses recycled nylon that’s tough and comes with a rain cover. The Osprey Daylite is more affordable and somewhat water-resistant. It could be better, though, according to users.

These weather-resistant backpacks and sturdy gear are perfect for any trip. Whether it’s a short visit to the mountains or a long hike, they’ve got you covered.

Ultimate Carry-On Travel Backpacks

Carry-on backpacks are a must for today’s traveler. They fit airline rules while giving you lots of space. Whether you want the best travel carry-on or are searching for lightweight carry-on options, there’s something for everyone.

The Cotopaxi 42L Travel Pack is both big and tough. It costs between $240 and $250. It’s 22 x 14 x 11 inches and weighs 3.1 pounds. Made of strong materials, it holds up to 42 liters, including a 15-inch laptop sleeve.

Looking for something for longer trips? Check out the 45-liter Away backpack. It’s big, yet light, at 21.7 x 13.6 x 9.5 inches and 3.32 pounds. It’s also eco-friendly, made from recycled polyester, with a 16-inch laptop sleeve.

On a tight budget? The Asenlin 40L Travel Backpack is your best pick at just $37. It’s a light, roomy option at 18.5 x 12.5 x 9.5 inches and 2.7 pounds, with a 17-inch laptop pocket. It’s cheap, yet highly functional and versatile for travel.

The Nomatic Travel Pack adjusts from 20 to 30 liters with expandable zippers. At 4.16 pounds and 18.5 x 12 x 6-9.5 inches, it has a 14-inch laptop pocket. It’s perfect for travelers wanting flexible storage.

For those focused on keeping their stuff safe, the Pacsafe anti-theft backpack is great. This 45-liter bag has locking zippers and a wire-reinforced layer to protect your things on the go.

Carry-on backpacks aren’t just about size. They make it easy to reach your essentials fast. With features like padded laptop compartments and smart pocket layouts, they’re key for smooth travel.

Durable Travel Backpacks for Rugged Terrains

Designed for those who love adventure, rugged travel backpacks are made with top-notch materials. They stand up to tough conditions. This ensures your gear stays safe and lasts a long time. We will look at what makes these backpacks strong, including their materials and build quality. We’ll also cover the best durable backpacks you can find today.

Materials and Build Quality

The secret behind a strong travel backpack is its materials and how it’s made. The best backpacks usually have:

• Heavy-duty fabrics like Cordura or ballistic nylon. These are very strong and resist wear and tear.
• Reinforced stitching in areas that get a lot of stress. This helps prevent rips and increases the backpack’s life.
• Water-resistant coatings to keep your stuff dry from rain, rivers, or snow.
  They may also have special zippers that keep water out, offering more protection.

These backpacks have features like being 36 liters in size, weighing 2.9 lbs, and measuring 19.75″ x 12.5″ x 8.5″. They are not only strong but also made for easy packing and carrying.

Top Durable Models

There are many great backpack models designed for different kinds of travel. Here are a few of the best durable ones:

1. The Shell Backpack is a top choice, with sizes from 20-40L. It’s priced at $249 but some are now $199.20 after a 20% discount.
2. The Hive Backpack 2.0 series has 22-32L choices and comes in four colors. Each costs $249, offering variety and quality.
3. The Nest Backpack 2.0 has smaller sizes of 16-20L, priced at $189. It meets the same high standards of durability.
4. The stylish Shelter Backpack is new and costs $339. It comes in four colors, suited for both city life and off-road adventures.

The Waterproof Daypack is perfect for those facing tough weather. It’s very strong. These packs are also made for comfort. They have padded straps and back panels. This means they’re comfy to wear for a long time. With these backpacks, you can rely on having a safe and enjoyable adventure.

Comfort First: Ergonomic Travel Backpacks

Traveling shouldn’t hurt, especially with the right ergonomic backpacks. These backpacks focus on comfort and lessen body strain. They are key for any traveler. Some main parts of comfortable travel backpacks are:

1. Adjustable Straps: Making the fit perfect for you helps avoid shoulder and back pain.
2. Padded Back Panels: They boost comfort by spreading weight evenly and improving air flow.
3. Weight Distribution Systems: These make the backpack’s load balanced, feeling lighter and simpler to carry.

When picking an ergonomic design for travel, remember to check the backpack’s size and weight. A slim backpack often feels lighter because it spreads weight better. Clamshell designs are great for staying organized, making it easy to see all your gear, perfect for traveling with just one bag.

Choosing tough materials like ripstop nylon or ballistic nylon, along with strong YKK zippers, is crucial. These make your comfortable travel backpacks tough enough for any trip. Whether you’re in a city or off the beaten path, these ergonomic details will ensure you travel in comfort and your gear stays safe.

Travel Backpacks for Women

Choosing the right travel backpack for women is key. It’s about matching the bag to women’s unique body shapes. Backpacks designed for women fit shorter backs and offer comfort through ergonomic design.

Design Features

Travel backpacks for women have special features. These features help meet a woman’s needs.

• Adjustable Straps: They let you tailor the fit for different body shapes.
• Stylish Design: They mix functionality with modern looks.
• Padded Hip Belts: These belts add support and balance the load.

Deuter makes SL backpacks perfect for women. They have shorter backs, slim shoulder straps, and shaped hip fins. These designs are great for female travelers.

Top Picks

Here are the best stylish and functional backpacks for women:

1. Blast Quick Access Carry On Travel Backpack: It can hold 28L to 38L and comes in six colors. The price is $69.99, making it flexible for various needs.
2. Vega Featherlight Work Backpack: This 23L backpack is both trendy and useful, ideal for daily use.
3. Faro 29L Carry On Travel Backpack Set: Priced at $74.99, it offers a lot of space and is built to last. You can choose from three stylish colors.
4. Soar 25L 180° Open Clamshell Travel Backpack Set: For just $59.99, this backpack is an affordable option with great features.

These backpacks for women are not only ergonomic but also stylish and practical. Many come with discounts and free shipping for orders over $50.

Travel Backpacks for Men

Men’s travel backpacks are made for adventure, with features that fit modern needs. They come in big sizes like 35L and 45L, perfect for all kinds of trips. These backpacks offer lots of room and are built to last.

The Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L is a hit, thanks to its many pockets. It’s light but strong, weighing between 4.1 to 4.4 lbs. Made with tough materials like 500D and 800D recycled nylon, they resist water and wear.

These backpacks are comfy to carry, with padded straps and a breathable back. They have special spots for laptops up to 16 inches, easy TSA pockets, and extra pockets outside. It makes travelling smoother and keeps your stuff organized.

Many are eco-friendly, using recyclable materials, and they come with a lifetime warranty. They have secure zippers and straps to keep your gear safe. They’re ideal for short trips, work journeys, or outdoor adventures, blending practicality with style.

Finding the right backpack can make your trip better. Think about size, weight, toughness, and how it’s organized. A good backpack gives you the confidence to face any trip with ease.

Eco-Friendly Travel Backpacks

More and more travelers now care about the planet. They look for eco-friendly travel backpacks. These backpacks use sustainable materials. This way, your choice is good for Earth without losing on style or lasting quality.

Materials and Sustainability

These backpacks often use recycled plastics and natural fabrics. Making them this way uses half the energy than standard materials do. It also saves 20% more water. Using recycled stuff also cuts air pollution by 60%.

For every backpack sold from their Re:cycled Collection, one tree gets planted. This helps grow more trees in U.S. National Forests.

Top brands also use solar energy and avoid plastic water bottles. Their tags are all made from recycled material too. This shows how committed they are to protecting our planet.

Top Brands

Pacsafe is a leader in eco-friendly travel backpacks. Their ECO series is very popular. For example, their 25L anti-theft backpack has a 4.7 rating. The 18L version has a 4.8 rating. These bags are not only green but also practical.

• Pacsafe® ECO 25L anti-theft backpack: Rated 4.7 out of 5, priced at $229.95
• Pacsafe® ECO 18L anti-theft backpack: Rated 4.8 out of 5, priced at $199.95
• Pacsafe® ECO 12L anti-theft sling backpack: Rated 4.7 out of 5, priced at $179.95

Pacsafe plans to stop using plastic packaging by 2020. They also back a recycling program. These efforts show they’re serious about lessening their environmental impact.

Stylish Travel Backpacks for Fashion-Forward Travelers

Travelers who love style and functionality will find stylish travel backpacks a great choice. Everlane’s The ReNew Transit Backpack stands out with a sleek design. It has a 4.6/5 rating. The backpack’s size is 17.5 x 7.25 x 12 inches and it holds 27 liters. It makes it perfect for both short trips and everyday use.

The Mifland Rolltop Rucksack is bigger and expands more. It grows 4 inches more for those extra items you pick up. At 16-22 x 12 x 6 inches, it’s strong yet stylish for those wanting space for their things.

If you want something small and green, check out the MZ Wallace Black Metro Utility Backpack. It’s made from recycled nylon and eco-friendly leather. With its size of 12.20 x 5.50 x 16.50 inches, it’s both handy and fashionable.

The Caraa Stratus Large bag is about fashion and lots of space. It has a 26-liter capacity and 12 pockets. Its size is 18 x 12 x 7.5 inches. This makes it a top pick for travelers who like to keep things organized.

Paravel’s Fold-up Backpack is unique and clever. Opened up, it’s 13 x 16 x 9 inches with 8 liters of space. Folded, it’s super small at 6 x 6.5 x 2.5 inches. It’s perfect for those who want an extra bag that’s easy to bring along.

Looking for something small or big? Stylish travel backpacks are key for travelers who want to stay fashionable. These cool gear options let you keep your unique look while meeting your travel needs.

Compact and Minimalist Travel Backpacks

Travelers who like to keep it light will love these backpacks. They are small and streamlined, yet offer enough space. For urban explorers and those who love to travel simple, these backpacks are ideal. They keep everything organized without giving up on style or usefulness.

Best Compact Models

• Best Overall Minimalist Backpack for Travel: AER Travel Pack 3
  • Price: $249
  • Weight: 4.12 lbs
  • Capacity: 35 liters
• Best Small Carry-on Backpack for Minimalists: Tortuga Travel Pack
  • Price: $325
  • Weight: 4 lbs
  • Capacity: 30 liters
• Best Minimalist Backpack for True Minimalists: Nomatic Travel Pack
  • Price: $299
  • Weight: 4.16 lbs
  • Capacity: 20/30 liters
• Best Minimalist Backpack for Women: Osprey Farpoint 40
  • Price: $185
  • Weight: 3 lbs 8 oz (size s/m)
  • Capacity: 40 liters

Choosing the best compact backpacks means looking at weight, space, and cost. Names like AER Travel Pack 3 and Tortuga mix sleekness with function perfectly. For women, the Osprey Farpoint 40 offers both ease and usefulness.

Weather-Resistant and Waterproof Backpacks

Heading out on an adventure? You’ll need a waterproof backpack to protect your stuff from rain, snow, and water. Travel gear that’s weather-resistant is made to keep your essentials dry and safe. These backpacks use special waterproof materials and designs for extra durability and safety.

Top Waterproof Choices

• Patagonia Guidewater Backpack – If you love fishing, this 29-liter backpack is perfect. It’s made of 100% recycled fabrics and has a special coating for keeping water out.
• YETI Panga 28L Waterproof Backpack – This backpack is super tough! It can be under water for 30 mins without a leak, thanks to its IPX7 rating.
• MARCHWAY Dry Bag – Looking for an affordable option? This dry bag comes in various sizes from 5 to 40 liters. The 20-liter model is under $30.
• Earth Pak Summit Dry Bag Backpack – Choose from three sizes (35, 55, or 85 liters) with this bag. Its rolltop closure keeps your belongings dry.
• SealLine Skylake Dry Daypack – This 18-liter backpack is all about keeping things dry with welded seams and a tough exterior.
• Skog A Kust BackSak Pro – With an IPX7 rating, this backpack protects your stuff underwater for up to 30 mins at a depth of 1 meter.
• ORTLIEB Velocity Waterproof Backpack – This versatile backpack comes in three sizes (17, 24, and 29 liters). It’s designed with a breathable back panel for extra comfort.

Additional Features to Consider in Travel Backpacks

Travel backpacks today offer more than just storage. They come with cool features like built-in USB ports and anti-theft construction. These smart backpacks make traveling easier and safer. They provide convenience and security for a better travel experience.

Think about backpacks with compartments you can change. This lets you organize your things like clothes, gadgets, or travel documents easily. The Knack Pack, for example, has a special section that gets bigger. It works for travel and everyday use, keeping things organized.

Now, backpacks also have antimicrobial linings. This stops odors from wet clothes and keeps things clean. Plus, secret spots and soft pockets for electronics add more security and convenience. No matter where you go, these features make sure you travel comfortably and efficiently.