Finding the Perfect Travel Backpack…
Choosing a travel backpack that ticks all the boxes makes a trip so much smoother.
From how comfy it is to how much stuff it can hold, several things matter when you’re picking the perfect one.
Lets begin with a review of handy tips for lining up your backpack with your needs.
Personalized Backpack Selection Tips
Your backpack shouldn’t be just another bag; think of it as your trusty sidekick on your adventures.
It needs to work for your travels and suit your style.
Here’s the lowdown on making that backpack really yours:
- Trip Duration and Purpose: Heading out for a quick weekend escape? A smaller backpack like the Cotopaxi Travel Pack should do the trick. For more extended adventures, roomier options like the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L are worth considering.
- Comfort and Fit: Don’t compromise on comfort. Ensure the backpack sits nicely on your back with straps that adjust based on your preference. A padded back panel is like a friend giving you a much-needed hug during those lengthy walks!
- Organizational Needs: Look for features making it a breeze to keep your stuff sorted. Designs that open like a clamshell, such as the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack, make packing and unpacking less of a chore.
Travel Backpack Factors to Consider
Picking the right travel backpack means weighing a bunch of factors. Here’s what to keep an eye on:
| Thing to Check | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Capacity | Choose based on how long you’re out and how much gear. |
| Material | Long-lasting, waterproof fabrics do wonders. |
| Weight | Lighter options make journeys sweat-free. |
| Security Features | Lockable zippers for peace of mind. |
| Accessibility | Good design = quick access to your things. |
| Price | Get good bang for your buck—consider durability too. |
- Capacity: Backpacks can be anywhere from 20L to over 50L. For a sweet spot, the Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L hits a nice balance.
- Material: Hardwearing choices, like the tough ballistic nylon on the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L, are ace for keeping your gear safe from the elements.
- Weight: A backpack that doesn’t weigh you down—absolute win for those long treks and travels.
- Security Features: Going for a backpack sporting anti-theft bits like lockable zippers? Wise move. Check out this anti-theft travel backpacks guide for more on that.
- Accessibility: Making your way around your stuff quickly and easily matters. Some bags combine style with practicality, likes of the Away Outdoor Convertible Backpack 45L.
- Price: You want a deal that’s sweet on your wallet and dependable too. The Kühl Eskape 25 Backpack fits the bill nicely.
Always peek at the specs from the maker to ensure it suits your travel mojo and requirements.
What are the Best Travel Backpacks in 2025?
Finding the right travel backpack can turn your adventures into smooth rides without the fuss.
Let’s check out three travel backpacks that have scored high marks for their cool features and ease of use.
1. Aer Travel Pack 3
Meet the Aer Travel Pack 3, a fan favorite known for its tough build and smart design.
Built from CORDURA® ballistic nylon, this bag’s ready to face whatever your long trips throw at it.
The standout features include load lifters and snug straps that do wonders keeping both the weight and stuff inside in check.
With lots of compartments to stash your gear, it’s a great pick for those who like keeping everything in its place.
Whether you’re hopping over to San Francisco, backpacking in Thailand, or sight-seeing in South Korea, this bag’s got your back.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Material | CORDURA® Ballistic Nylon |
| Capacity | 35L |
| Best for | Long Travels |
| Price | $230 |
2. GORUCK GR2
Ready to hit the road and not come back for a while? GORUCK GR2 is your go-to for its heavy-duty build and user-friendly touch.
Made from CORDURA® Nylon with tough YKK zippers, this backpack can handle the heavy lifting. Perfectly sized to sneak in as a carry-on, it fits snug under budget airline seats.
Its hardcore design makes it perfect for long sagas, and the compartments are big on convenience—so you can check off what you need without digging through the whole bag.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Material | CORDURA® Nylon |
| Capacity | 40L |
| Best for | Long Journeys |
| Price | $395 |
3. Peak Design Travel Backpack
For photographers on the move, the Peak Design Travel Backpack offers a sleek solution. Known for its camera-friendly setup, it has neat compartments and a laptop sleeve for all your gadgets. Got more stuff? It expands from 35 to 45 liters!
This bag keeps your gear locked and loaded with a strong compression system. Whether you’re heading out for a weekend or gone for the long haul, it’s got you covered.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Material | 400D Nylon |
| Capacity | 35L – 45L |
| Best for | Photographers |
| Price | $300 |
These travel backpacks combine toughness, smarts, and style, making them top choices for any adventurer.
From wide-open spaces to super sturdy materials and cool compartments, you’re bound to find the perfect match right here.
Additional Recommended Backpacks
If you’re on the hunt for travel backpacks that get the job done without fuss, check out these three crowd-pleasers: Tom Bihn Synik 30, the Kühl Eskape 25 Backpack, and the Cotopaxi Travel Pack.
Each is packed with neat features tailored to different travel vibes.
1. Tom Bihn Synik 30
Meet the Tom Bihn Synik 30 – famed for its next-level organization mojo and DIY-style customizability.
This bag’s got more pockets than you can shake a stick at and spots to hook on extra gear.
Inside, it’s a wizard of organization, doubling up for both jet-setting and your daily grind (Pack Hacker). Riding on the coattails of its older sibling, the Synapse model, this backpack is versatile, ready for any getaway flung its way.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Volume | 30L |
| Pockets | Sheds of pockets, both in and out |
| Special Features | Clip-ons galore, clever internal layout |
Thinking you need a compact champ for planes and buses? The Tom Bihn Synik 30 has got your back. For more carry-on champions, give our best carry-on backpack for travel guide a browse.
2. Kühl Eskape 25 Backpack
Roll out the Kühl Eskape 25 Backpack – known for swallowing all your stuff with a weatherproof twist.
It packs a cozy spot for your laptop, bottle holders, and loads of nooks for all your must-haves (Travel + Leisure). Rain or shine, this bag keeps your gear bone dry.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Volume | 25L |
| Weatherproof | Yes |
| Special Features | Laptop gets its own house, bottle snugglers |
If you’re into backpacks that laugh in the face of bad weather, the Kühl Eskape 25’s your go-to. Peek at our waterproof backpacks for travel selection for more options that keep the rain out.
3. Cotopaxi Travel Pack
Finally, we have the Cotopaxi Travel Pack – a real travel workhorse boasting rugged materials, comfy air mesh straps, and a slick luggage pass-through strap for less shoulder pain (Travel + Leisure). With its robust design, it’s a trusty sidekick for any trip.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Volume | Varies |
| Straps | Cushy air mesh shoulder straps |
| Special Features | Handy pass-through strap, tough-as-nails build |
Great as a carry-on, the Cotopaxi Travel Pack shines in comfort and practicality, branding itself as one of the best carry-on backpacks for travel. If you’re on the prowl for a do-it-all backpack, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better pick than this.
Dive into these stellar choices and nab the one that matches your wanderlust and needs.
Top-Rated Specialized Travel Backpacks
Travel backpacks have come a long way, and now, they’re all about meeting your specific needs while keeping functionality on point. Let’s check out three standout options that travelers can’t stop raving about.
1. Gregory Swift 22 H20 Backpacker
For those who love to hit the trails, the Gregory Swift 22 H20 Backpack is a hiker’s trusty sidekick.
Built tough for rocky paths, it’s survived quite the battering—snow dives and rock tumbles included.
It even comes with a snazzy 2-liter hydration pack that refuses to leak or break (Travel + Leisure).
Key Features:
- Space for a hydration bladder
- Lots of storage spots
- So light and comfy you might forget you’re wearing it
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 22L |
| Weight | 1.8 lbs |
| Hydration Pack | Included (2L) |
2. Yeti Panga 28L Backpack
If camping and exploring the wilds are your things, the Yeti Panga 28L Backpack is your go-to pal.
100% waterproof, it’s got you covered come rain or high water. Roomy is an understatement, so toss in all that bulky gear without a second thought (Travel + Leisure).
Key Features:
- Completely waterproof
- Tough and bendable material
- Big enough to fit your whole camping kit
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 28L |
| Weight | 3.9 lbs |
| Waterproof | Yes |
3. Solo Re:Define Backpack
Commutes don’t stand a chance against the Solo Re:Define Backpack.
It’s a sleek, urban warrior with smooth zippers, a water-shunning exterior, and bonus pockets for your bottle and tech.
Stay juiced up on the move with that handy USB charging feature (Travel + Leisure).
Key Features:
- Moisture-resistant coat
- Extra pockets for the little things
- Chic and modern look
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Capacity | About 20L |
| Weight | 2.1 lbs |
| Special Features | Repels water, supports USB charging port |
These specialized travel backpacks prove you’ve got options to suit any trip—a hike, a campout, or even your daily grind.
Best Carry-On Travel Backpack Options
If you’re the wanderlust type, a carry-on backpack’s your trusty sidekick. Check out these three top-rated buddies boasting convenience, flexibility, and a decent style.
1. Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack
The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack is your go-to for handy organization and easy carrying. Perfect for a weekend escape or up to a week-long adventure.
It opens like a clam for hassle-free packing, comes with a lifetime guarantee, durable materials, and a rain fly just in case the sky decides to open up on you.
According to the folks at the New York Times Wirecutter, it’s a keeper.
Built tough, the Allpa 35L combines 1,000D TPU-coated polyester with some hefty 840D ballistic nylon for strength.
With the dual access to its main compartment, a rain cover that tucks away, and space for your gadgets, it’s got you covered (Switchback Travel).
| Feature | What’s Included |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 35 liters |
| Material | Combo of polyester and nylon |
| Compartments | Easy access, space for laptop & tablet |
| Warranty | Lifetime, worry-free |
| Extra Stuff | Rain fly, clamshell style |
2. Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L
The Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L knows how to expand its horizon, with room shifting from 35 to 45 liters when you need more space. Pockets and padded sleeves abound for all your tech toys, and it’s wrapped up in a tough nylon canvas (Switchback Travel).
With enough room for all your essentials and easy to sort gear thanks to its multiple compartments, it’s adaptable for any trip you plan.
| Feature | What’s Included |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 35 to 45 liters, your call |
| Material | Thick and durable |
| Compartments | Plenty, with tech-friendly sleeves |
| Expandability | 35L to 45L flex |
| Easy Entry | Multiple points for access |
3. Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L
The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L puts comfort and ease at the forefront. Just zip it open like a suitcase, use the straps to keep it tight, and fill up its many pockets with clothes and gear.
| Feature | What’s Included |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 40 liters |
| Material | Sturdy Fabric |
| Compartments | Opens wide, lots of storage |
| Compression Straps | Yup, to pack it tight |
| Sort & Store | Pockets galore for organization |
These are some of the cream-of-the-crop travel backpacks, spot-on for functionality and smooth traveling.
Best Versatile and Functional Backpacks
For folks on the go, looking for pack versatility with a dash of practicality, these standout travel backpacks let you whisk around the globe with ease and reliability.
1. Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack Del Dia
The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack Del Dia is like your trusty sidekick—tidy, comfy, and always ready for adventure.
Whether you’re escaping for a quick getaway or a week of wandering, its clamshell setup lets your stuff find a cozy spot almost effortlessly.
Made from a tough mix of 1,000-denier, TPU-coated polyester, and 840-denier ballistic nylon, this bag is built like a tank.
It even has a rain fly to thumb its nose at surprise showers and comes with a lifetime warranty.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 35L |
| Material | 1,000-denier TPU-coated polyester, 840-denier ballistic nylon |
| Design | Clamshell |
| Extra Features | Rain fly, lifetime warranty, dual access to main compartment, electronics sleeve |
Discover more sturdy options on this roundup of waterproof backpacks for travel.
2. Away Outdoor Convertible Backpack 45L
The Away Outdoor Convertible Backpack 45L—perfect for when the road stretches beyond the usual. Packing for a longer trek? No problem.
With cozy shoulder straps and a whole bunch of compartments secured by compression straps, all your travel gear fits and stays put.
Its adaptable style means it molds to your every need, keeping your back happy while you explore.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 45L |
| Design | Convertible |
| Extra Features | Multiple compartments, compression straps, cushioned shoulder straps |
3. Asenlin 40L Travel Backpack
Bargain hunters, here’s a gem! The Asenlin 40L Travel Backpack brings lots of room and brainy organization without breaking the bank.
It boasts three packing cubes and a special sleeve for laptops, plus handy straps to attach to your suitcase.
Grab it if you like saving bucks while still traveling smart.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 40L |
| Design | Traditional |
| Extra Features | Three packing cubes, laptop sleeve, suitcase strap, horizontal handle |
These trusty travel companions are just a few of the best-rated options out there.
Each comes with its own quirks and perks, making sure every trip is comfy and clutter-free!
❓ Best Travel Backpacks: Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: What is the best travel backpack for laptops?
A: The best travel backpack for laptops combines padded compartments for protection, plenty of storage, and water-resistant materials. Popular options include the Nomatic Backpack and the Peak Design Everyday Backpack.
Q: Are there travel backpacks with a shoe compartment?
A: Yes, many travel backpacks feature dedicated shoe compartments, keeping your footwear separate from clothing. The Nomatic Travel Bag and Matein Travel Backpack are excellent choices.
Q: What is the best carry-on travel backpack with water resistance?
A: For water resistance, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack and the Tortuga Outbreaker Backpack are ideal options, offering durability and weather protection for international travel.
Q: Which is the best lightweight backpack for travel?
A: Lightweight travel backpacks like the Osprey Daylite Plus and the Deuter Speed Lite 21 are perfect for travelers looking to reduce weight while staying organized.
Q: What is the best backpack for air travel?
A: The Nomatic Navigator Backpack and the Samsonite Tectonic Lifestyle Backpack stand out for their TSA-approved designs, ensuring smooth air travel.
Q: What is the best backpack for travel and work?
A: For dual travel and work needs, the eBags Professional Slim Backpack and the Thule Subterra Backpack provide a professional look and organizational features.
Q: What is the best travel backpack carry-on option?
A: Carry-on-friendly travel backpacks like the Tortuga Setout Backpack and the Aer Travel Pack 3 meet most airline size restrictions while offering maximum capacity.
Q: What is the best travel backpack for Europe?
A: The Osprey Farpoint 40 and the Deuter Transit 50 are highly recommended for European travel, thanks to their ergonomic designs and efficient packing features.
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