Traveling is one of life’s greatest joys, whether you’re trekking through the jungles of Southeast Asia, wandering the cobblestone streets of Europe, or embarking on a minimalist weekend getaway. But no matter where your journey takes you, one thing remains constant: the importance of a reliable travel backpack. Backpack isn’t just a bag – it’s your companion, your storage solution, and sometimes even your pillow on long overnight flights. Choosing the right one can make or break your trip.
With countless options on the market, from sleek urban designs to rugged outdoor beasts, finding the perfect travel backpack can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve put together this ultimate guide to the best travel backpacks for every type of adventure. Digital nomad, a backpacking enthusiast, or a casual vacationer, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into what makes a great travel backpack, key features to consider, and our top picks across various categories.
You May Like
What Makes a Great Travel Backpack?
Before we jump into specific recommendations, let’s break down the essentials of what makes a travel backpack stand out. Great rucksack balances comfort, durability, functionality, and style. Here are the key factors to keep in mind when choosing your ideal pack:
- Size and Capacity
Travel backpacks typically range from 20 to 80 liters. Smaller packs (20–40L) are perfect for carry-on travel or short trips, while larger ones (50–80L) suit extended adventures or overland journeys. Consider your travel style: Are you a minimalist who can survive with just a few outfits, or do you need space for gear like hiking boots and a sleeping bag? - Comfort and Fit
A backpack might look amazing on paper, but if it digs into your shoulders or strains your back after an hour, it’s a no-go. Look for padded shoulder straps, a supportive hip belt (especially for larger packs), and an adjustable back system to match your torso length. - Organization and Accessibility
Do you prefer a top-loading pack for simplicity or a front-loading design that opens like a suitcase? Multiple compartments, laptop sleeves, and external pockets can keep your gear organized and easy to reach. - Durability
Travel can be tough on gear. A good backpack should withstand rough handling, unpredictable weather, and years of use. Look for high-quality materials like ripstop nylon or polyester, reinforced stitching, and water-resistant coatings. - Weight
A lightweight pack leaves more room for your belongings without pushing you over airline weight limits. However, don’t sacrifice durability for a few ounces—balance is key. - Style
While functionality reigns supreme, there’s no harm in picking a bag that looks good too. Sleek, understated designs work well in urban settings, while bold, rugged aesthetics suit outdoor adventures. - Travel-Friendly Features
For air travel, ensure your pack meets carry-on size restrictions (usually 22 x 14 x 9 inches, including straps). Lockable zippers, stowaway straps, and a rain cover are bonus features that can save you headaches on the road.
With these criteria in mind, let’s explore the best travel backpacks for every type of traveler.
Top Travel Backpacks for Every Adventure
1. Best Overall Travel Backpack: Osprey Farpoint 40
- Capacity: 40L
- Weight: 3.5 lbs (1.6 kg)
- Price: ~$180
- Best For: All-around travelers, carry-on adventurers
The Osprey Farpoint 40 is a perennial favorite among travelers—and for good reason. It’s the Goldilocks of travel backpacks: not too big, not too small, but just right for most trips. Designed to meet most airline carry-on restrictions, this pack is ideal for those who want to skip baggage claim and hit the ground running.
The Farpoint’s front-loading design makes packing and unpacking a breeze, with a spacious main compartment, a padded laptop sleeve, and smaller pockets for essentials like passports and chargers. Its suspension system, complete with a LightWire frame and padded shoulder straps, distributes weight evenly, keeping you comfortable during long hauls through airports or city streets.
What sets the Farpoint apart is its versatility. It’s sleek enough for urban travel yet rugged enough for light hiking. The stowaway back panel and harness keep it streamlined when checked as luggage, and the lockable zippers add peace of mind. If 40L feels too snug, Osprey also offers a 55L version with a detachable daypack—perfect for longer trips.
Pros: Lightweight, durable, excellent organization, carry-on compliant.
Cons: Limited space for heavy gear, no hip belt on the 40L model.
2. Best Budget Travel Backpack: REI Co-op Ruckpack 40
- Capacity: 40L
- Weight: 3.8 lbs (1.7 kg)
- Price: ~$139
- Best For: Budget travelers, weekend warriors
If you’re looking for quality without breaking the bank, the REI Co-op Ruckpack 40 delivers. Priced under $150, this pack offers many of the premium features you’d expect from higher-end models, making it a fantastic value for casual travelers and beginners.
The Ruckpack 40 boasts a front-loading main compartment, a padded laptop sleeve, and plenty of smaller pockets for organization. Its breathable mesh back panel and padded straps ensure comfort, while the removable rain cover keeps your gear dry in unexpected downpours. At 40L, it’s carry-on friendly, and its understated design blends seamlessly into both urban and outdoor settings.
While it’s not as lightweight or feature-packed as pricier options, the Ruckpack punches above its weight class. It’s built to last with tough, water-resistant fabric and sturdy zippers, making it a reliable companion for years of adventures.
Pros: Affordable, durable, rain cover included, carry-on size.
Cons: Slightly heavier than competitors, basic hip belt.
3. Best Backpack for Digital Nomads: Nomatic Travel Bag 40L
- Capacity: 40L
- Weight: 4.2 lbs (1.9 kg)
- Price: ~$299
- Best For: Remote workers, tech-savvy travelers
For digital nomads juggling laptops, cameras, and a mobile office, the Nomatic Travel Bag 40L is a game-changer. This sleek, modern backpack is designed with the tech-savvy traveler in mind, offering unmatched organization and a polished aesthetic that fits just as well in a coworking space as it does on a plane.
The Nomatic shines with its thoughtful design: a dedicated laptop and tablet compartment, a waterproof shoe pocket, a laundry bag, and over 20 pockets for cables, pens, and gadgets. It’s carry-on compliant, and its clamshell opening makes packing a breeze. You can even expand it from 30L to 40L for extra flexibility.
Comfort isn’t sacrificed for style—padded straps and a breathable back panel keep you going during long commutes. While it’s pricier than some alternatives, the Nomatic’s premium build quality and lifetime warranty justify the investment for frequent travelers.
Pros: Exceptional organization, stylish, tech-friendly, expandable.
Cons: Expensive, slightly heavy, less suited for rugged outdoor use.
4. Best Backpack for Long-Term Travel: Osprey Atmos AG 65
- Capacity: 65L
- Weight: 4.6 lbs (2.1 kg)
- Price: ~$340
- Best For: Extended trips, overland adventures
For those embarking on months-long journeys or tackling rugged terrain, the Osprey Atmos AG 65 is a top-tier choice. This pack is built for serious adventurers who need space for clothes, camping gear, and supplies without sacrificing comfort.
The Atmos AG (Anti-Gravity) suspension system is its standout feature, wrapping around your body like a hug to evenly distribute weight. The adjustable harness and hip belt cater to various body types, while the ventilated back panel keeps you cool on sweaty treks. With 65L of capacity, it’s not carry-on friendly, but it’s perfect for overland travel or checked luggage.
The pack offers top-loading access with plenty of external attachment points for gear like trekking poles or a sleeping pad. Its durable, water-resistant fabric holds up against the elements, and a removable top lid doubles as a daypack for shorter excursions.
Pros: Superior comfort, spacious, durable, great for hiking.
Cons: Too large for carry-on, pricey, overkill for short trips.
5. Best Minimalist Travel Backpack: Tortuga Setout Divide 34L
- Capacity: 26–34L
- Weight: 3.9 lbs (1.8 kg)
- Price: ~$179
- Best For: Light packers, short trips
Minimalists rejoice—the Tortuga Setout Divide 34L is your dream backpack. Designed for travelers who thrive on packing light, this expandable pack grows from 26L to 34L, giving you flexibility without excess bulk. It’s carry-on compliant and perfect for weekend getaways or week-long trips if you’re a packing pro.
The Setout Divide features a clamshell opening, a padded laptop compartment, and just enough pockets to stay organized without overcomplicating things. Its padded straps and hip belt offer decent comfort for a smaller pack, and the clean, urban design won’t look out of place in a trendy café or a budget hostel.
While it’s not built for heavy outdoor use, the Setout Divide excels at what it’s meant for: streamlined, fuss-free travel. It’s a fantastic choice for city hoppers or anyone looking to downsize their load.
Pros: Compact yet expandable, lightweight, stylish, carry-on friendly.
Cons: Limited space for gear, not ideal for rugged adventures.
6. Best Backpack for Outdoor Adventures: Deuter Aircontact Lite 50+10
- Capacity: 50+10L
- Weight: 4.2 lbs (1.9 kg)
- Price: ~$220
- Best For: Hiking, camping, outdoor enthusiasts
If your travels involve more trails than terminals, the Deuter Aircontact Lite 50+10 is a stellar pick. This pack bridges the gap between a hiking backpack and a travel rucksack, offering ample space and rugged durability for outdoor escapades.
The Aircontact Lite’s adjustable back system and ergonomic hip belt provide excellent support for long treks, while the expandable 10L collar adds extra room when needed. It’s top-loading with a large front zipper for easy access, and external loops let you attach gear like a tent or sleeping bag. The pack’s breathable padding and sturdy frame make it a joy to carry, even when fully loaded.
While it’s not carry-on sized, it’s a dream for overland travelers or anyone blending hiking with their itinerary. Deuter’s reputation for quality shines through in the pack’s tough materials and weather-resistant design.
Pros: Comfortable, durable, expandable, great for hiking.
Cons: Too big for carry-on, less suited for urban travel.
7. Best Stylish Travel Backpack: Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L
- Capacity: 35–45L
- Weight: 4.5 lbs (2 kg)
- Price: ~$299
- Best For: Photographers, style-conscious travelers
The Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L proves you don’t have to sacrifice aesthetics for function. This sleek, award-winning pack is a favorite among photographers and design lovers, thanks to its innovative features and minimalist look.
With a customizable capacity (35L to 45L), it’s carry-on compliant when compressed and expandable for extra gear. The clamshell opening provides full access to the main compartment, while side zippers let you grab your camera or laptop without digging. It’s packed with smart details: magnetic closures, weatherproof zippers, and a stowable harness system.
Comfort is solid with padded straps and a removable hip belt, though it’s not as ergonomic as hiking-specific packs. For travelers who want a bag that looks as good as it performs, the Peak Design is hard to beat.
Pros: Stylish, versatile, great for photographers, carry-on size.
Cons: Expensive, less comfortable for heavy loads.
How to Choose the Right Travel Backpack for You
With so many excellent options, narrowing down your choice comes down to your specific needs. Ask yourself these questions:
- How long are you traveling? Short trips favor smaller, carry-on packs like the Farpoint 40 or Setout Divide, while extended journeys call for larger options like the Atmos AG 65.
- Where are you going? Urban destinations pair well with sleek, organized packs like the Nomatic, while rural or rugged areas demand durable, outdoor-ready bags like the Deuter Aircontact Lite.
- What’s your packing style? Minimalists can thrive with 30–40L packs, while gear-heavy travelers might need 50L or more.
- What’s your budget? High-end packs offer premium features, but budget-friendly options like the REI Ruckpack still deliver solid performance.
Try on backpacks in person if possible—fit is everything. Check airline carry-on rules if you plan to fly, and prioritize features like water resistance or laptop sleeves based on your itinerary.
Travel backpack is more than just luggage—it’s the backbone of your adventure. From the versatile Osprey Farpoint 40 to the stylish Peak Design 45L, there’s a perfect rucksack out there for every type of traveler. Invest in a pack that matches your journey, and you’ll be ready to explore the world with confidence and ease.
FAQs
1. What is the best backpack for travel?
The best travel backpack depends on your needs. For durability and comfort, brands like Osprey, Nomatic, and Samsonite offer excellent options.
2. What size backpack is best for traveling?
A 30-50L backpack is ideal for short trips, while a 50-70L backpack suits longer journeys. Carry-on-sized backpacks (35-45L) are great for air travel.
3. What features should I look for in a travel backpack?
Look for comfortable shoulder straps, multiple compartments, lightweight material, water resistance, and security features like lockable zippers.
4. Are travel backpacks better than suitcases?
Backpacks are ideal for flexibility and mobility, especially for hiking or city travel. Suitcases work better for organized packing and longer stays.
5. Which travel backpack is best for a laptop?
Brands like Nomatic, Samsonite, and North Face offer travel backpacks with padded laptop compartments, USB ports, and anti-theft features.
6. Are travel backpacks waterproof?
Some backpacks come with water-resistant materials, while others offer a rain cover for extra protection. Check product details before buying.
7. What is the best budget travel backpack?
Affordable yet durable options include AmazonBasics, Matein, and Venture Pal, offering good quality at a lower price.
