peak design travel backpack vs tortuga outbreaker

Tortuga Outbreaker vs. Peak Design Travel Bag: An Honest Comparison

If you’re deciding between the Tortuga Outbreaker vs. Peak Design, there’s no clear answer as to which brand is better overall. They’re both solid choices. But this breakdown will help you decide which backpack is best for you.

Tortuga Outbreaker vs. Peak Design? That’s a tough question!

As a traveler who likes to stay mobile and hates looking like a gawky tourist, I love all the innovative new backpacks on the market that cater to the more adventurous types. And these two walk that perfect line for travelers:

• They are perfectly sized for carry-on travel, meaning you get the absolute maximum out of your baggage allowance.
• They are comfortable and easy to wear out and about.
• They come with loads of organizational features to make your life easier.
• You can take them on a trip for a few days, a few weeks, or a few months—they are made to survive anything.

In my opinion, the Tortuga Outbreaker and the Peak Design Travel Bag 45L are the top two offerings on the market, and both have made it into my list of the top carry-on travel backpacks as well as my list of the best backpack brands in general. That’s because both companies make super high-quality backpacks!

Both bags have their advantages and disadvantages, so how do you choose just one?

Lucky for you, we’ve done the hard work already. Read on as we take an in-depth look at both bags to show you which one we would recommend for you as your next travel backpack.

Tortuga Outbreaker Overview 

The Tortuga Outbreaker is another suitcase/backpack hybrid, retaining the excellent functional aspects of both.

The Tortuga brand was born by two travelers on a Euro-trip with failing backpacks. It was then that they decided to create their own lines of durable backpacks that could withstand the rough and rugged nature of travel.

In building the Outbreaker—Tortuga’s flagship bag—they worked to strike a balance between sturdiness and an ergonomic, user-friendly design. What they ended up with was a bag built for organization.

With a double-clamshell design, one side of the bag is designated for your electronics while the other side is dedicated for your clothes and other wearables.

And while Tortuga doesn’t make quite as many organizational accessories as Peak Design, they do make a fantastic set of packing cubes that are sized perfectly for the bag.

Tortuga Outbreaker Features

• Double clamshell design
• Front-loading organization
• Shoulder straps with chest clip
• Ventilated backing
• Adjustable harness system
• Comfortable hip belt
• Extra packing features sold separately

For a complete overview of this bag, check out the full review here .

Peak Design Travel Bag 45L Overview

Peak Design is an American company based in San Francisco that started out designing and building accessories for photographers. They’ve since grown and, on top of those offerings, they now create organized, ergonomic camera bags for travelers and commuters. As a result, it is a particularly good choice for people who travel with photography gear.

But they’ve been very careful about making their bags suitable for everyone. Yes, they serve photographers well, but they serve everyday travelers, too.

The Peak Design Travel Bag 45L is built as a kind of suitcase hybrid. With a clamshell design and access points on the top, sides and front, it’s more versatile than any other bag we’ve come across.

Inside, the Peak Design Travel Bag uses a modular organization system, which can be filled with any of their organizational add-ons, customizable by you. Combine the 2/3 packing cube with the 1/3 camera cube. Or the 2/3 and 1/3 packing cubes. Or one giant camera cube. Or, frankly, whatever system works best for you.

(View all the packing accessories here.)

They have an entire ecosystem of travel and photography products which seamlessly integrate with one another. When you start building out that ecosystem of products, it’s amazing, because everything works together.

They’re like the Apple of backpacks…but they don’t collect all your data.

One of my favorite features is this bag’s ability to compress. With a literal pinch, 45L becomes 30L, turning this travel backpack into a daypack! This is one-bag travel at its finest.

Peak Design Travel Bag 45L Features

• Clamshell design with lots of entry points
• Convenient pockets including a hidden security pocket
• Weatherproof
• Easy strap storage
• Rigid construction
• Built-in compression features

Who Are the Tortuga Outbreaker and the Peak Design Travel Bag For?

Both these bags are a top pick for travelers with a minimalist mindset. If you’re planning to spend most of your time in cities, towns and beaches—and you don’t want to be weighed down by a suitcase—these bags are exactly what you’re looking for.

Plus, they are tough enough to last for years of adventures.

Anyone Traveling for More Than a Day or Two

These bags will be able to hold enough clothes and electronics to keep you going comfortably for a couple weeks—or for a month or more for those willing to strip their gear right down to the bone.

Many of these bags are marketed as “weekenders,” but that’s taking into account the packing habits of the majority of travelers. Which is to say, the majority of travelers overpack.

But 45L is more than enough space for long-term travelers if you’re willing to take a more intentional approach to your packing.

One-bag travel is excellent for finding out what really matters most to you.

Summer Travelers

These are perfect bags for going to warm places, as your summer outfits won’t take up much bag space. This leaves plenty of room for you to pack a couple extra bits like cameras or that book you’re totally going to read this time.

Digital Nomads

With all the extra features in both bags—along with their high durability—either one would make the perfect companion for someone working remotely with a lot of electronics.

Both bags are built with “connected travelers” in mind, meaning they have well-placed (and well-protected) laptop sleeves, and are built to carry an extra tablet, external hard drives, power banks, chargers and anything else you might need in your mobile office.

Business Travelers

If you often find yourself going to new places for work, which requires you to take clothes and equipment with you, these bags are a great choice. Our top choice for business travelers, however, would be the Peak Design Travel Bag, simply due to aesthetics as well as the organizational add-ons (like the shoe pouch) that would suit business travelers.

People Who Hate Waiting at Baggage Claim

If you’ve traveled through an airport, you know that waiting at baggage claim sucks. Both the Tortuga Outbreaker and the Peak Design Travel Bag are carry-on sized so you don’t have to check your bag and then worry about finding it—or waiting for it—later.

Who Aren’t These Bags For?

The Tortuga Outbreaker vs. Peak Design travel bag—maybe neither are right for you.

Hikers and Trekkers

These bags are not equipped for the bush. While they would do the job if you wanted to go on a quick walk during your trip away, they are not designed to be taken on long treks. These bags are for city slickers through and through.

Everyday Commuters

These bags are too bulky for a regular commute. At 45L, they would be very inconvenient to cycle with, and you would not make many friends on the train taking up that much space with your backpack.

That said, both companies make excellent bags for everyday use. Tortuga has the Outbreaker Daypack and the Setout Laptop Backpack , while Peak Design has the Everyday Backpack in both 20L and 30L sizes (our top pick).

Winter Travelers

Unfortunately, if you’re going somewhere chilly, you won’t be fitting many coats in these bags. You could try going full Yeti mode and wear all your layers on the plane. But, to avoid heatstroke, it might be better to just pay for a checked bag.

If you love Peak Design (like we do), and want the same high quality design and features but in a larger bag, the Peak Design Travel Duffelpack 65L might be the choice for you.

Shoe-Laden Travelers

If you just can’t go on a trip without a pair for every occasion, you will have to rethink your outfits or stick to a suitcase. In my opinion, each bag could probably hold one extra pair of shoes. Anything beyond that and you might want to look at some other carry-on luggage options. In that case, the whole Tortuga Outbreaker vs. Peak Design travel bag debate is useless.

Style-Conscious Travelers

While both bags look pretty cool, they are also very utilitarian. If you are looking for Gucci or Prada, you should probably stick with a suitcase.

Tortuga Outbreaker vs. Peak Design Travel Bag

So, why have we chosen to compare these two travel bags?

• They are marked at a similar price point.
• Each come in similar sizes.
• Both have similar purposes.
• Both are marketed for the same type of traveler.

But the difference is that each bag has unique features that makes them stand out in different ways, meaning one might be better for your needs than the other.

To be clear, we don’t have a “favorite,” as these are both very strong bags. But we will discuss their strengths and weaknesses to give you a more personal, overall recommendation.

Carry Capacity

Both of these bags are the same size at 45L, the approximate size limit for cabin baggage of almost all airlines. But the Tortuga Outbreaker vs. Peak Design travel bag—which one carries more?

In our opinion, the Peak Design Travel Bag comes out on top here. While the Tortuga Outbreaker does come in a 35L variation, the Peak Design bag collapses from 45L to 30L, meaning you basically have two differently sized bags in one.

Saying they are both 45L is all well and good, but what can actually go into that size of bag? This is my go-to packing list for a trip abroad with this bag size:

• 4-5 tops, shirts or t-shirts
• 2 dresses or pants
• 1 pair of shorts
• Underwear and socks for a week
• A sweatshirt or light rain jacket
• Compact travel shoes
• 15″ laptop
• Tablet and Kindle
• Portable power bank
• Charging cords for my electronics
• Universal power adapter
• Travel size toiletries (plus makeup for the ladies)
• My travel notebook and a nice pen
• Inflatable pillow
• Reusable water bottle

This is a typical list of travel gear that I would pack for a trip ranging from two weeks to several months. If you wash your clothes while you travel, you can keep going pretty much indefinitely with this list.

Don’t forget: For most airlines, carry-on bags have to be under 15 pounds, but if you want to take more, you can always wear it on the plane!

Size and Dimensions

Once you start looking at how these backpacks are built, the differences begin to emerge.

For starters, the Peak Design bag has one major advantage in that it is designed to compress to a smaller size should you need it. It can be shrunk to 35L with a compression zip, then down to a 30L daypack with some extra straps.

The Outbreaker does have straps on the side that could be used for compression, but it’s not a key feature that affects the functionality of the bag. The compression of the Peak Design, however, is a key part of the bag’s design, which means that anything put inside while the bag is compressed will sit more naturally and comfortably.

The compression straps seem like more of an afterthought on the Outbreaker, though. This advantage gives the Peak Design bag points for versatility.

In terms of physical dimensions at full extension, the bags are pretty similar, as they are both designed to comply with airline cabin bag restrictions. However, the Tortuga is slightly slimmer, which has made a slight positive difference to how the bag feels when full, according to some reviewers.

However, this advantage is negated by the fact that the Outbreaker is significantly heavier, at 5.1 pounds to the Peak Design’s 4.5 pounds. When you already have up to 15 pounds on your back, every extra pound will make a difference.

Overall, I think the Peak Design Travel Bag comes out on top in this round.

Organization

This is my favorite part of a bag review, because no matter if it’s on rain jackets or backpacks, I just love some well-designed pockets. And the Tortuga Outbreaker vs. Peak Design Travel Bag organization rivalry is real.

Tortuga Outbreaker

The Outbreaker has a different logic, with more focus placed on the extra pockets than the main compartment. The main compartment of this bag is sandwiched between two slim vertical compartments full of organizational features. On the back, there is a padded laptop sleeve and a tablet sleeve, with space to put all your cables, portable chargers and more.

The front has two half pockets with space for guidebooks or notepads, then a larger compartment with storage for sunglasses, pens, notebooks and a clip for your keys, as well as a zipped pocket for a purse.

The main compartment can be opened clamshell-style from one entry point only, with zippable mesh pockets and four side pockets—perfect for organizing your underwear and toiletries. There is a video on the Tortuga website which demonstrates all these features; I have watched it several times because it is absolutely mesmerizing.

Peak Design Travel Bag

The Peak Design Travel Bag has been designed with sensitive photography equipment in mind, so the designers have gone to great effort to accommodate your electronic babies.

Starting at the back, there’s a built-in 17” laptop sleeve, padded on both sides for maximum protection. This can be accessed easily from the zip when you take it off, but is out of reach of potential pickpockets while worn.

This back zip can also open clamshell-style so you can access the main compartment quite conveniently.

On each side, there are zippered entry points to access the main compartment. This is a signature feature that was carried over from the Peak Design Everyday backpack which works quite well in this larger backpack, too. If you’re out exploring the city for a day, you don’t have to go digging through your bag from the top—just enter through the side and grab a snack or that hoodie you stuffed away.

There is a small front pocket for your sunglasses and other bits. And by your hip, there is a hidden security pocket that is perfect for passport storage.

The inside of the main compartment is undivided, allowing you maximum space to store your things. If you desire some more organization, the company sells extras such as packing cubes, which are compatible with the bag.

So, which one is better? Honestly, this is a close call. The Tortuga has the better selection of pockets—that can’t be denied. However, I think the flexible construction may mean that your contents can get easily disorganized. Plus, the fact that you would always have to lay the bag out flat and unzip it to access the contents is a downer.

Meanwhile, the Peak Design has plenty of access options. The drawback is that, to get anywhere close to the level of interior organization that the Tortuga offers, you need to buy extra features.

In the end, I think the big push for pockets wins this round of the Tortuga Outbreaker vs. Peak Design travel bag. The Outbreaker it is.

Straps, Backing, Harness System and Overall Comfort

If you’re going to put your possessions on your back, you’ll want to know that they will be comfortable up there. So, how do these backpacks rate in this crucial test of functionality?

First: the Tortuga.

The designers have opted for maximum padding to help you shoulder the weight of your things, along with a height-adjustable suspension system to accommodate your torso. There are chest and hip straps secured with standard buckles. And there is also plenty of padding on the back, which will also keep your laptop safe (and it sits facing your back).

One big advantage for the Tortuga is that it is height adjustable. The straps can be moved up and down to accommodate a range of heights and torso sizes, which makes it a good buy for anyone who struggles with one-size-fits-all backpacks.

One significant disadvantage is that the straps are very thick and bulky, leading to restricted movement and an inability to reach the side pockets while wearing the backpack. Having to take the backpack off to take your water out is a bit of a bummer.

Peak Design, on the other hand, have included slightly less padding, but use a different suspension system and thinner straps to keep your pack comfortably mounted.

The hip and chest straps are a little strange. Instead of the usual buckle, they have a metal catch that hooks one side to the other. Although this isn’t quite as convenient as a buckle (you can’t pop it off with one hand), it will definitely be more durable than the standard plastic buckle system. So, it’s a little annoying, but possibly a benefit in the long run.

The main straps are fairly thin on the Peak Design, but have sufficient padding to be comfortable, especially once the hip and chest straps are engaged. This means you have more freedom of movement while wearing the bag. However, there’s no system to adjust the straps for your spine length.

While this may not matter if you’re an average-sized human, if you have had issues with bags in the past due to your height, this is something you should consider.

Overall, when it comes to debating the Tortuga Outbreaker vs. Peak Design Travel Bag for comfort, both bags have their pros and cons in this category.

I would say that the Peak Design has the edge here. The fundamental purpose of good straps and padding is to make the bag easy to carry, and a bag that restricts your movements with its straps represents a major flaw to me.

Materials and Durability

It’s hard to fault the materials of either bag. The outer shell of the Peak Design is made with 400D nylon, which they claim is made with recycled material. The Tortuga is made of VX21 Sailcloth. Both materials are designed to be very durable to withstand the beatings that bags like these usually receive from an active, adventurous traveler.

It’s unknown how well the pockets and interior material hold up over time, but I think it’s safe to assume that neither company has skimped on quality in any aspect of these bags, least of all the organizing elements.

One difference is that Peak Design claim their material is “weatherproof,” while Tortuga claim theirs is “waterproof,” which leads me to believe that the Outbreaker has the superior material.

However, I have no way to verify this, as these terms have no set standard for measurement. Certainly, neither company makes any specific claims about how much weather or water their bags can resist. Both companies state that the zips—made by outside manufacturers—are waterproof and durable over the lifetime of the bag.

All in all, I think the Outbreaker wins this category.

While we’ve already mentioned that you probably aren’t buying these bags with designer looks in mind, the look of these bags is still a central concern. After all, they’re going to be very visible. So which one has the edge—the Tortuga Outbreaker vs. Peak Design Travel Bag?

The Tortuga is quite blocky, staying true to the utilitarian, suitcase-with-straps mentality that brought these backpacks to life. It’s pretty rectangular all the way around, with right angles at every corner.

The only color available is black, so no choice here at all. However, the pale grey interior is a nice contrast to that dark exterior, and the fabric crosshatching that provides some extra durability also gives the material a nice texture.

By contrast, Peak Design have been a little more adventurous with their design. The outer corners of the bag are rounded, giving the bag as a whole a trendier look. The inside of this bag is also pale grey, which is again a nice contrast. However, the bag comes in two colors—black and a lighter grey-green color—with brown leather zips, which looks very sleek.

I think there’s a clear winner here: Peak Design. They have clearly tried to create a bag that is not only functional but that also looks great, especially in that lighter color.

The rectangular Tortuga may be successfully squeezing in a couple of extra inches of space from the airline baggage allowance, but it has come at the expense of its looks. While function is prized over form in bags like these, there is still a place for aesthetics in everyone’s mind when buying a backpack.

Security is always important when it comes to any bag, but especially in a bag that will carry all your travel gear and electronics. You don’t want any of your vital things going missing while you carry the bag, when you put it in a luggage rack, or when you’re asleep in a dorm room.

So how do these two heavyweights stack up in this round?

Both companies explicitly built in security features to their bags. On the Tortuga Outbreaker, the zips to the three main compartments are lockable and fit TSA-compliant locks. The laptop and tablet pouches are attached to this part of the bag and stay facing your back, the most secure location of any bag.

However, the place for your passport is at the front of the bag, which makes me nervous. Not that you have to put them there of course…but if not, what’s the point of those pockets?

Peak Design has done things a little bit differently, though. While the Outbreaker has obvious security features like a place for a lock, the Peak Design Travel Bag security features are more cleverly integrated. Every zipper can be hidden away and reversed and locked from the inside, making zip access from the outside completely impossible.

I think that, ultimately, security isn’t a key design feature of either of these bags. They’re not meant to be traveling safes.

There are some basic elements of security that you wouldn’t find on a hiking bag, for example, but in the end, these bags are designed to be carried with you where you can keep an eye on them, rather than left in unsecured places such as baggage claim.

Both bring an equal amount of security features to the table, so I don’t see a clear winner in this category. That said, if security is a primary concern for you, you might want to consider a brand like Pacsafe or a hardshell suitcase.

The prices are fairly similar here, with each one running for about $300 USD.

Then you need to take into account the accessories to go with each one. For example, packing cubes are going to run you another $30-60 for each bag. And if you’re buying a $300 backpack, you might as well spend another 10-20% in order to get the most out of it.

In all seriousness, these are expensive bags. If you’re looking to get a budget bag, you’re looking in the wrong place. The Tortuga Outbreaker and the Peak Design Travel Bag are serious bags, designed to be your travel companion for years to come. They’ll take all the knocks of life on the road and still keep all your stuff safe and organized every time you open it up.

While these are top-of-the-line bags with top-of-the-line prices, whichever one you choose should, quite frankly, be the last travel bag you ever need to buy.

One extra thing to note is that, if you buy three Peak Design products at the same time on their website, you save 10% on the whole order. So, if you were also looking at a camera cube and some packing cubes, this is a great deal to take advantage of.

Warranty is an often-overlooked aspect of buying travel gear. While it doesn’t affect your day to day experience of the bag, it is important to know whether or not the company will respond if any defects should emerge in your travel bag, particularly given the price you pay.

Peak Design are very committed to their warranty guarantee. They have a lifetime warranty if any part of the bag is found to be “non-functioning or defective.” This means that they won’t replace a bag damaged from use, but if a part should fail, they will gladly replace it.

As the website states, the company is committed to ensuring their bags stay in use and out of the garbage, which I think is an admirable goal.

Tortuga offers a similar guarantee, stating, “if your product fails due to a defect, we will repair, replace or refund your money at our discretion, based on product availability.”

They also mention that they take a personal touch, since they are a small company competing in a market with billion-dollar corporations. So, they won’t give their customers the corporate run-around with warranties. I think this is a great way to treat their customers, and it makes me feel very safe about a potential purchase.

Overall, both companies seem to have a very customer-friendly warranty policy, meaning you will be well taken care of if any problems emerge. So forget the Tortuga Outbreaker vs. Peak Design Travel Bag comparison here; you’ll be in good hands either way.

Tortuga Outbreaker vs. Peak Design Travel Bag: Final Thoughts 

As you have seen, both bags are very strong contenders to be your next travel companion. Both the Tortuga Outbreaker and the Peak Design Travel Bag have many advantages that make them some of the best travel gear in the world.

Specifically, both have great warranty policies, the same price tag and the same carrying capacity, with a few key differences in weight, comfort, materials and organization that set them apart.

There are some groups of people that will probably want one bag over the other for specific reasons.

For very small or very tall people, the Outbreaker is probably the best pick thanks to the height-adjustment system with the straps.

But for photographers, the Peak Design is designed with so many useful features, such as a sturdy shell, compatible add-ons sold separately—like camera bags and lens holders—and an open interior to help you store bulky items. It’s a no brainer, really.

Personally, the Peak Design Travel Bag is my favorite. I’m a sucker for clever and thoughtful design and, while out on the road, I find the little things to sometimes make the biggest difference.

It’s the hidden straps that come in handy at the most random of times. It’s the attachment clips that work with the Everyday bag, plus their keyring, plus their camera straps, etc.

The whole Peak Design ecosystem is what really makes this bag shine, but buying into this ecosystem does, indeed, come with a price tag.

And, at the end of the day, a bag that goes on your back must be comfortable first and foremost. And on my body, the Peak Design is the clear winner in that category, making it the best overall pack for me.

But just because it’s my favorite doesn’t mean it has to be yours. When comparing the Tortuga Outbreaker vs. Peak Design Travel Bag, either option is a fantastic choice. Quite frankly, you can’t go wrong with either one.

So go ahead and just pick the one that’s calling to you and get ready for your next adventure!

• Peak Design Travel Backpack Review
• Tortuga Outbreaker Review
• Best Carry On Backpacks For One Bag Travel
• Best Backpack Brands

Jeremy Scott Foster

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The Best Travel Backpacks For Your Next Getaway

By: Tim Huber Updated: Jan 04, 2023

Whether you’re spending a weekend out of town or taking off on an  extended world tour , traveling almost always requires a bag or vessel for organizing and carrying your essential gadgets, gear, and other belongings. While practically any backpack or bag will offer some utility in this area, your average pack can’t hold a candle to a travel-specific backpack that’s been engineered from the ground up specifically for globetrotting.

Though once a fairly niche space, the  travel backpack  market has absolutely exploded in recent years, giving way to dozens of rucks and bags with highly-calculated designs. And while the sheer abundance of available options gives buyers an enormous selection of choices, it can also make it difficult to hone in on the handful of bags that objectively stand above the rest. And it’s this very group of bags we’ll be counting down today in this guide to the best travel backpacks.

The Best Travel Backpacks Breakdown

Best Overall Travel Bag

Aer Travel Pack 3

Best Eco-Friendly Pick

Bellroy Transit Backpack

Editor’s Pick

Peak Design Travel Backpack

Best Minimalist Pick

Minaal Carry-On 3.0 Bag

Most Rugged Pick

What Exactly Is A Travel Backpack?

Though on the outside they don’t look all that different from regular everyday carry or work backpacks , travel packs are fairly unique as far as their design and amenities are concerned. Often borrowing elements from regular backpacks, duffle bags, and hard travel luggage, travel-specific backpacks are usually larger in volume than your average everyday carry bag and at times can be expanded to afford even more storage space. More importantly, travel packs are designed with globetrotting in mind, and feature amenities and elements dedicated to this use such as luggage handle pass-throughs, passport pockets, hidden stash spots, locking zippers, concealed smart tracker pockets, and full clamshell openings. 

Additionally, most travel-focused backpacks adhere to standard airline carry-on luggage sizing. It’s also common to see travel backpacks with pockets or cavities than can be accessed or opened from more than one place/side of the bag. Even more common in this space is the use of grab handles and backpack and duffel-style shoulder straps that can be stowed away when not in use. And, because the last place you want to have your bag break, tear, or otherwise fail is when overseas, thousands of mies from home, the vast majority of the latest and greatest travel backpacks are crafted from rugged materials that are pieced together using equally hardwearing — and often reinforced — construction techniques. 

Travel Carry Solutions Shopping 101

The Main Factors To Consider When Buying A Travel Backpack

Now that you’re up to speed on just what exactly a travel backpack is, let’s begin unpacking the factors that you should consider when shopping for one — the most important of which we’ve briefly outlined in this condensed guide directly below. 

Video Guide: Best Travel Backpacks

Want a more in-depth look at our favorite travel backpacks? Then head on over to our travel backpacks video guide where we break down our top five travel bags in greater detail.

Materials: The materials used to craft a bag — and the construction techniques used to piece said materials tougher — undoubtedly play the biggest role in determining a travel backpack’s overall quality, more so than any other factor. Engineered to standup to millions of miles of globetrotting, these travel packs are typically cut from hardwearing shell constructions such as high-denier nylon and waxed canvas, as well as proprietary materials like Dyneema and CORDURA. 

Amenities & Organization: Travel backpacks are specifically engineered to accommodate the regular essentials most globetrotters use when jet setting to another land. With that said, the number of available organizational elements offered can greatly vary, as can the efficacy, utility, and practicality of each element. As such, when reviewing this area, you’ll want to explore each backpack’s spec sheet in order to discover their full list of organizational items such as pockets, slips, compartments, dividers, etc.

Hardware & Secondary Materials: Hardware & Secondary Materials: Though it’s a travel backpack’s shell material and construction technique(a) that determine much of the bag’s overall durability and quality, secondary materials are another factor that separate today’s best travel packs from their objectively inferior counterparts. This includes elements the backpack’s liner construction and trim elements, as well as the hardware used such as the bag’s zipper tracks, attachment points, and buckles.

Size: While everyday carry packs only need to accommodate a work day’s worth of kit, travel backpacks need to house markedly more garments and gear. As such, travel backpacks are almost always larger than their EDC-focused counterparts, with most travel-specific backpacks boasting around 20 to 35 liters of internal storage space.

Accessibility:   Another way in which travel backpacks are different from regular packs is in the way their pockets and compartments can be accessed. This includes items such as full-length clamshell openings that provide completely unobstructed access to the entirety of the bag’s contents, as well as pockets with interior and exterior zippers that allow them to be accessed from inside out outside of the pack. While discussing travel backpacks’ accessibility, we also advise looking into whether or not any of its pockets or compartments can be locked or secured in any way.

Selection & Testing Process

How & Why We Got Hands-On With These Particular Travel Wallets

In order to generate our list for the best travel backpacks on the market, we first began by exploring the wider space and piecing together a broad list of the latest and greatest packs before beginning to narrow that initial round down to a shortlist of potential candidates — all of which were selected based on each travel backpack’s design and layout, materials and hardware , and list of travel-specific features and organizational amenities. This ultimately enabled us to come up with a list of packs that we could then proceed to put to the test in order to determine which of these carry solutions would be making the final cut and which would fall by the wayside. 

One can admittedly get a decent sense of a travel backpack’s features, dimensions, and build quality by simply getting hands-on with the bag for just a few minutes. With that said, the only way to really get an understanding of how these carry solutions actually perform in their intended application is to book airline tickets, load the bags up, hop a plane, and truly put them to the test. And while it only consisted of short trips, that’s exactly what we did; utilizes these backpacks as they were intended to be used, on various planes, trains, and busses. This provided a wealth of insights and information that we otherwise wouldn’t have uncovered by merely checking them out for a few minutes.

Our Fave Bags For Travel

• Crafted around insanely rugged 1,680D CORDURA shell
• Stellar organizational amenities
• Has Duraflex hardware & YKK zips
• Has hidden AirTag/tracking device pocket
• Equipped w/ load lifters & compression straps w/ magnetic fasteners
• Also sold in even more rugged X-Pac VX-42 shell version
• Heavy when unloaded at over 4lbs
• Luggage handle passthrough is effective but difficult to use

Best Overall Travel Bag : If we had to select a single bag as the best travel backpack, it would have to be Aer’s third-generation Travel Pack. Crafted around an ultra-tough 1,680-denier ballistic-grade CORDURA shell, Aer’s Travel Pack 3 also sports a quick-access top pocket, Duraflex hardware, lockable YKK zippers throughout, reinforced handles on all four sides, a hidden smart tracker pocket, an expandable water bottle pocket, a  rolling hard luggage  handle pass-through, a series of compression straps with magnetic fasteners, a soft-lined, padded and suspended laptop pocket that can accommodate notebooks of up to 16”, and an internal frame-sheet that affords enough structure to allow the pack to stand on its own, even when empty. Weighing in at 4.2lbs, this bag offers 35 liters of collective storage space and utilizes a luggage-style lay-flat main compartment that makes accessing its contents a breeze. This bag is also offered in an equally rugged X-Pac construction version.

Check out our in-depth Aer Travel Pack 3 review here .

Capacity: 35L Exterior Material: 1,680D CORDURA (or X-Pac)

• Sustainably made from eco-friendly, recycled materials
• Internal compression straps keep contents firmly in place while in transit
• Sports sleek minimalistic exterior
• Also sold in 20L and 38L sizes
• Shell lacks durability of other travel packs on this list
• 3-year warranty doesn’t point to lifetime of use

Best Eco-Friendly Pick: A minimalistic yet fashion-forward design that’s offered in a trio of color options and three different sizes (20L, 28L, and 38L), Bellroy’s Transit Backpack was specifically designed for the modern globetrotter. As such, it meets carry-on size requirements and boasts a plethora of genuinely useful features for traveling such as a stealthy, quick-access passport pocket, a soft-lined sunglasses pocket, and a  quick-access laptop compartment . Backed by a three-year warranty, this Bellroy bag is made from a water-resistant woven fabric that’s composed of recycled materials. Internal compression straps also assist in mitigating bulk while simultaneously preventing its contents from shifting around during travel. Our favorite version of this bag — the 28-liter variant — also offers plenty of storage space while still tipping the scales at under 4.5lbs.

Check out our in-depth Bellroy Transit Backpack review here .

Capacity: 28L Exterior Material: Water-Resistant Recycled Fabric

• Award-winning expandable pack engineered specifically for travel
• Meets domestic & international carry-on sizing requirements
• Front pocket can be accessed internally or externally
• Features full clamshell-opening rear door
• Ultralight padded foam provides security and structure around entire bag
• Laptop sleeve is built into rear clamshell door/back pad
• Hidden ID pocket not large enough to fit wallet or passport (or anything larger than a single ID or card)

Editor’s Pick: Though Peak Design’s 45-liter Travel Backpack may not offer any groundbreaking or innovative features, it nonetheless represents one of the best all-around travel packs that money can buy, with an extremely calculated design that excels in just about every area a world traveler could ask for. Crafted around an ultralight padded foam structure, this bag is made from  fully-waterproof  and fully-recycled 400-denier nylon canvas that’s been reinforced with an even harder-wearing 900-denier waterproof bottom. Winner of a slew of coveted awards — including a trio of best-in-show titles — this backpack sports numerous primary and secondary compartments, a suitcase-style flat-lay opening setup, several hidden stealth pockets, a stowable hip belt and sternum strap, 360-degree grab handles, axial strap attachments, and a high-visibility light gray interior that makes it easier to find its contents. Peak Design also makes a handful of packing cubes and other accessories to further optimize this already stellar travel bag. 

Check out our in-depth Peak Design Travel Backpack review here .

Capacity: 45L Exterior Material: DWR-Coated Recycled 400D Nylon Canvas

• Engineered from the ground up specifically for travel
• 3rd-gen design benefits from updates born out of customer feedback
• Fits laptops up to 16”
• Features flay-lay opening and packing setup
• Sold w/ included rain cover & lifetime warranty
• Expensive price
• Not waterproof (w/o using included rain cover)

Best Minimalist Pick: Utilizing ample real-world field testing from tens of thousands of airline miles as well as abundant public feedback, Minaal’s third-generation CARRY-ON Bag boasts a slew of improvements over its second-gen predecessor such as a new flat-lay clamshell opening, a more comfortable and ergonomic shoulder strap and back panel setup, and a primary 600D Picton fabric construction that’s made from recycled materials and is now 22% stronger and less prone to tearing. Compliant with both U.S. and European airline carry-on sizing requirements, this bag is also reinforced with 1,200-denier Picton fabric in key stress and high-abrasion areas, plus features Minaal’s new and improved Unified Harness system. Other additions include new markedly more rugged zippers, Woojin and UTX alloy buckles throughout, a four-point harness adjustment system, a new stealth integrated stash pocket, and the brand’s patented shockproof DeviceNest double device sleeve which can accommodate tablets and notebooks of up to 16”. Protected by a lifetime warranty against defects, this bag is also compatible with an array of hip belts, packing cubes,  shoulder slings , extender straps, and a myriad of other available add-ons. 

Capacity: 35L Exterior Material: 600D Picton Fabric

• Based on Special Forces medical packs’ clamshell opening designs
• Cut from ultra-rugged & heavily-reinforced 1,000D ballistic-grade CORDURA shell
• Made in America & backed by lifetime warranty
• Genuinely built to last a lifetime
• Sold in 26L, 34L, and 40L sizes
• Lack of hip strips greatly limit rucking capabilities
• Unmistakably military-inspired appearance can be pro or con depending on taste

Most Rugged Pick: Whether you’re in the market for an everyday carry backpack, an outdoor rucksack, or a travel bag, we’d always recommend checking out the available options from the experts at GORUCK, as the Florida-based brand produces gear that’s as incredibly well-thought-out as it is tremendously rugged — with  GORUCK’s GR2 backpack  being far from an exception. Sized to meet carry-on sizing restrictions, the GR2 is modeled after Special Forces medical packs, and as such uses a flat-opening setup that affords instant and completely unobstructed access to all of its contents. The GR2 also features two primary compartments, plus a trio of smaller inner and outer pockets and an insanely secure, heavily reinforced, suspended laptop compartment with a false bottom. 

Capacity: 40L (or 26L or 34L) Exterior Material: 500D Nylon

More Bags For Your Wanderlust

Osprey Farpoint Travel Pack Carry-On 40

Winner of multiple prestigious awards, the Osprey Farpoint Travel Pack Carry-On 40 is a well-calculated backpack engineered from the ground up to be the ideal travel bag. Made around a 210-denier nylon Mini Hex Diamond Ripstop nylon shell, this bag’s primary construction is supplemented via a 600-denier packcloth bottom and accents. Alongside dual compression straps and a bevy of organizers, this backpack also uses Osprey’s LightWire frame suspension which can neatly stow away in its padded and ventilated mesh back panel when not being used. On top of offering the Farpoint Travel Pack in two different sizes and two color options, Osprey also produces a range of accessories made specifically for this bag, such as a zippered document folio, a roll organizer, and a  packing cube set . 

Capacity: 40L Exterior Material: 210D Nylon Mini Hex Diamond Ripstop

Topo Design Global Travel Bag 30L

Largely characterized by its immense versatility, aesthetically pleasing design, tremendous durability, and use of sustainable materials, Topo Design’s Global Travel Bag is a streamlined take on a travel pack that’s crafted from an incredibly hardwearing combination of 210-denier, 400-denier, and 1,000-denier nylon, plus 1,680-denier  ballistic nylon  — all of which are derived from recycled materials. Protected by Topo’s MAP Guarantee, this backpack also features U-shaped main and secondary entries, internal mesh organizers, a semi-rigid foam internal structure, zippered security pockets, a 15” padded laptop panel, a pass-through panel, top and side carry handles, expandable side water bottle pockets, heavy-duty YKK zippers, Topo’s PackFast attachment clips, vertical daisy chain webbing, and an advanced suspension system made up of a removable adjustable padded shoulder strap and waist belt, load-lifter straps, and a sternum strap.

Capacity: 30L Exterior Material: Recycled 1000D & 1680D Nylons

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack

Carry-on-compatible  while still boasting 35 liters of storage space, Cotopaxi’s Allpa 35L Travel Pack aims to offer a streamlined minimalistic bag that still provides the necessary space and organization needed for globetrotting duties. The backpack’s TPU-coated 1,000-denier polyester primary construction has been paired with 840-denier ballistic nylon paneling, giving it immense durability while also affording it solid water resistance. Sold with an included rain cover, this brilliantly engineered travel pack sports a weight-distributing, low-profile harness system, a removable waist belt, padded laptop and tablet sleeves, a zippered passport pocket, locking YKK security zippers, four carabiner lash loops for carrying additional gear on the outside of the bag, tuck-away shoulder straps, four reinforced grab handles, and a main compartment opening with a suitcase-style, full wraparound zipper. This ultra minimalist-style bag is also produced in several additional color combos. 

Capacity: 35L Exterior Material: TPU-Coated 1000D Polyester & 840D Ballistic Nylon

Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack

Backed by a generous lifetime warranty, this bag from Timbuk2 was designed to suit a wide variety of travel applications and settings. The Never Check Expandable Backpack offers 24.5 liters of internal real estate, though it can also be expanded to unlock an additional three liters of storage space — thanks to the use of a clever wraparound gusseted zipper design. Other highlights of this backpack include weatherproof zippers throughout, an ultra-plush padded back panel, and dedicated  electronics storage  with a padded tablet pocket for devices as big as 9.7” and a laptop pocket that can fit notebooks as large as 16”. In total, Timbuk2’s Never Check Expandable Backpack manages to weigh in at just 2.6lbs, giving it a pretty incredible storage space-to-weight ratio of less than 0.1lb per liter. 

Capacity: 27.5L Exterior Material: 420D x 2000D CORDURA

Mystery Ranch Mission Rover Backpack

Mystery Ranch undeniably makes some of the finest outdoor and everyday carry packs in existence, though the Bozeman brand has more recently taken its immense expertise and applied it to the creation of a purpose-built  travel pack  known as the Mission Rover. Capable of being carried as a shoulder bag, a backpack, or a suitcase, this item is made from a plain-spun nylon fabric with a 210-denier nylon liner. Produced in three sizes and three color options, this bag has been bestowed with a myriad of travel-focused features such as a luggage handle pass-through, lockable YKK zippers, a trio of inner divided pockets, a padded 15” laptop sleeve, a dirty laundry and shoe compartment, a fold-up waist belt, and a dedicated compartment for pens, USB flash drives, and office supplies. 

Capacity: 30L Exterior Material: Plain-Spun Nylon Fabric

HEIMPLANET Transit Line Travel Pack

HEIMPLANET has long been one of the most renowned gear and bag makers in operation, and with offerings like the Transit Line Travel Pack, it really isn’t hard to see why. Utilizing a full-length U-shaped main clamshell-style opening, HEIMPLANET’s Transit Line Travel Pack boasts a reinforced grab handle, a collapsible  water bottle  pocket, multiple smaller quick-access zippered pockets, and ultra-waterproof WATER-R zippers. Affording 28 liters of internal storage space, this bag is made from HEIMPLANET’s proprietary main fabric known as DYECOSHELL — a dope-dyed nylon yarn weave with excellent abrasion resistance that’s created using a markedly more sustainable manufacturing process compared to other equally hardwearing materials. This bag can also be upgraded via optional compression straps, a sternum strap and hip belt, and several other available upgrades offered by HEIMPLANET. 

Capacity: 28L Exterior Material: DYECOSHELL

Able Carry Max Backpack

Able Carry’s Max Backpack wasn’t just designed to be the ultimate travel pack, but instead strives to excel in every area possible, from a work bag to an everyday carry backpack to a  gym bag , and everything in between. Tipping the scales at just under 4lbs, this 30-liter pack is made from an extremely rugged combination of X-Pac fabric and 1,000-denier, ballistic-grade CORDURA nylon. This bag also features a closed-cell foam back panel, a luggage handle pass-through, lockable zippers, a padded laptop compartment that can accommodate models up to 17” in diameter, and a dedicated work gear and tech organizer for housing cables, chargers, earbuds, and wireless mice. In addition to offering customers a two-week money-back trial period, Able Carry also stands behind this product with a lifetime warranty — should you somehow manage to compromise or damage its insanely rugged constructions.

Capacity: 30L Exterior Material: X-Pac & 1000D CORDURA

Tom Bihn Synik 30

While it may resemble your average  JanSport-style bookbag , the Tom Bihn Synik 30 conceals a myriad of impressive features under its high-denier shell that make it ideal for travel. Building on its already impressive predecessor, this backpack is constructed around a fully-integrated — yet removable —  internal frame sheet with an aluminum half-stay and features a full clamshell-style opening, a new and improved grab handle, a padded bottom, a luggage handle pass-through, removable internal tie-down straps, and a two-point access suspended and padded laptop compartment that can fit a single notebook of up to 16” — or two 15” laptops. Tom Bihn also produces the Synik 30 in more than 25 different color options, patterns, and materials. 

Capacity: 30L Exterior Material: 400D Halcyon, 420D Nylon Ripstop, or 525D 2×2 Ballistic Nylon

Evergoods Civic Travel Bag

Evergoods’ Civic Travel Bag is a purpose-built travel pack that massively benefits from the same, ultra-rugged 420-denier high tenacity nylon fabric and PU knifecoat as the brand’s  outdoor-focused Mountain Line . Under its minimalistic exterior, this travel pack features a quick-access top pocket, an exterior panel stash pocket, a luggage handle pass-through, a stowable, 3D-patterned, ergonomic waist belt, a mono-mesh construction back panel that offers best-in-class durability and breathability, a Velcro-secured padded and suspended laptop pocket that fits models of up to 17”, and an interior panel pocket for housing crucial items like wallets, smartphones, and passports. This bag also boasts Zotefoam EV50 EVA foam shoulder straps that are created using Nitrogen gas in a high-pressure manufacturing process, affording them remarkably consistent density and compression even when worn for extended durations. 

Capacity: 35L Exterior Material: DWR/PU-Coated 420D Nylon

Tortuga Outbreaker Travel Backpack

Utilizing a front-loading configuration with a clamshell opening, the Tortuga Outbreaker Backpack is a  super rugged travel bag  that’s crafted from extremely hardwearing X-Pac VX21 laminated pack fabric before being finished with Duraflex buckles and hardware and water-resistant and lockable YKK zippers. In addition to a back lined with a soft, sweat-wicking foam padding, the rear face of the pack is also equipped with a height-adjustable suspension system with a weight-bearing removable hip belt that’s supplemented via load-lifters and an adjustable sternum strap. Tortuga also makes a larger 45-liter version of this bag that doesn’t meet the size requirements for international carry-ons, however, it does meet the U.S. sizing restrictions as a carry-on, perfectly fitting into most plane’s overhead bins.

Capacity: 35L Exterior Material: X-Pac VX21

The Best Travel Wallets

Don’t yet own a travel-specific vessel for safely carrying your passport, paper currency, tickets or boarding passes, and other vital documents? Then be sure to head over to our guide to the best travel wallets for the latest and greatest models that perfectly pair with the above travel backpacks

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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.

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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 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. We are currently testing a new, lighter, and less-expensive version of this pack—aptly named the Travel Backpack Lite 40L —and will report back soon.  In the meantime, if you think you would struggle carrying the Tortuga, 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.

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 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.

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.

Tortuga Travel Backpack vs. Outbreaker Backpack

Published July 12, 2022

Written by:

Fred Perrotta

Co-founder, tortuga.

Fred Perrotta is the co-founder and CEO of Tortuga. His first backpacking trip to Europe inspired him to start the...

Jeremy Michael Cohen

Jeremy Michael Cohen is a co-founder of Tortuga. He also works as a screenwriter and director. Aside from travel and...

The Tortuga Promise

At Tortuga, our mission is to make travel easier. Our advice and recommendations are based on years of travel experience. We only recommend products that we use on our own travels.

Table of Contents

Six years after the launch of the Outbreaker Backpack (codename: V3), we are ready to launch the Tortuga Travel Backpack (codename: V4). We hope it will have been worth the wait.

In this article, we’ll cover why now was the right time to update the Travel Backpack , our goals for the project (based on your feedback), and what else is new. 

At Tortuga, our goal is to make evergreen products that last for years and never become obsolete or go out of style .

But being evergreen doesn’t mean getting complacent. When we innovate with new fabrics and features in the travel market, they slowly filter down to other companies. As other brands copy those innovations, we have to keep pushing forward. 

That means we’re always looking for new opportunities to improve our products.

Sometimes that opportunity is a small tweak that we can make between production runs and doesn’t require a major update or announcement. But when we have a lot of changes on our to-do list, and we see an opportunity to take a true leap forward, we know it’s time for a version update.

Each new version update has taken more time to design and develop. The V2 took two years, V3 took three years, and V4 took six years. Finding a good enough reason for a version update is becoming harder and harder with each new iteration. But we keep looking. If we aren’t getting better, we’re falling behind. If we’re falling behind, we’re failing you.

Thanks to your feedback and reviews, we had a shortlist of needed improvements to the Outbreaker Backpack:

• Improve access to the lower front pocket so that it’s easier to use when the bag is full
• Soften the corners of the bag so that the shape is “softer” and the zippers slide more easily

These were easy, medium-sized updates. But what would be the big leap forward to justify the next version? 

Right before the pandemic, we found it. A new material with the same waterproofness as our previous body fabric, X-Pac® VX21, but more durable, lighter weight, and 100% recycled . We call it SHELL200.

With a new and improved fabric, a list of changes based on your feedback, and six more years of design experience, we were ready to tackle the Travel Backpack V4.

What’s Not Changing

First up were the non-negotiables. We had improvements to make but also standards to uphold.

The new Travel Backpack had to maintain the four most important features of every Tortuga bag:

• Carry-On-Sized
• Front-Loading
• Comfortable

Those are the most important features in a travel backpack as we’ve defined the product since creating the category in 2010.

What’s New

With the constraints of the project in place, we outlined five larger goals for the Travel Backpack in the design brief:

• Update the size
• Improve the silhouette
• Reduce weight and complexity
• Switch to recycled fabric
• Make the suspension system easier to adjust

Update the Size

You might be surprised to hear that we’re updating the size of the travel backpacks. Previously, the sizes were:

• 45L (22 x 14 x 9 in): The maximum-sized carry on for most US airlines and fare types.
• 35L (20 x 13 x 8 in): A smaller carry on that fit both US and international carry on limits.

After surveying and testing, we learned that our customers strongly prefer maximum-sized international carry ons that can be brought on any airline worldwide. That’s 40L, not 45L or 35L.

With 40L set for the larger size, we updated the smaller size from 35L to 30L, a perfect size for short trips like a long weekend and a better fit for petite frames and minimalist packers. The 27-32L range has been popular for past products like the Tortuga Air and Setout Divide Backpack.

Improve the Silhouette

The main aesthetic feedback on the Outbreaker was that it was too boxy.

Airlines define their carry on size limits as a perfect rectangle. The more rectangular your bag is, the more you maximize every cubic inch (or liter) of space you’re allowed. The softer the shape of your bag, the more packing volume you lose. One Bag calls this “the curse of curves.”

While a perfect rectangle may maximize packing volume, most people don’t want a bag that’s all straight lines and right angles. The shape isn’t as attractive, especially at the size of a large carry on .

Bags may be functional, but you also wear them. People care about how they look. Even people who want to maximize packing space will trade a bit of volume for softer corners and a less boxy shape.

Reduce Weight and Complexity

The other complaint about the Outbreaker was that it was too heavy. The 45L weighed 5.1 lb, and the 35L weighed 4.6 lb. Both were heavy relative to the 22 lb weight limit imposed by some airlines.

The Outbreaker was heavy because it was a big, complex bag. The pockets and organization added weight because of how heavy the zippers are. The advanced suspension system added weight for the adjustability features and extra padding. 

We did this on purpose but knew that the weight would be a deal-breaker for some travelers. This is because the Outbreaker Backpack was meant to be the fully-featured, top-of-the-line bag in our product lines. 

We intended another bag, the Homebase Backpack, to be the simpler and lighter travel backpack on the site. But the Outbreaker proved far more popular. So we’ve chosen to update Outbreaker to tamp down on its excesses, like weight, without taking away its strengths.

As part of the effort to reduce weight, the Travel Backpack will also simplify some of the complexity of the Outbreaker. Specifically, we eliminated pockets, cut down on padding, and simplified how the adjustable suspension system works. More on that below.

We only made these changes when we felt we could make the bag lighter and simpler without impacting overall performance.

Switch to Recycled Fabric

As already mentioned, we were excited to be able to switch our flagship product line to use a recycled body material. Previously, our other lines used recycled body fabrics, but the Outbreaker only used a recycled lining fabric. 

We wrote a post on the new fabric and changes from the previous VX21 fabric. The short version is that we’ve switched from virgin nylon to recycled polyester as the basis for our sailcloth fabric. The new version, SHELL200, is more durable, lighter weight, and (still) completely waterproof .

As a bonus, the new fabric is 100% recycled and contains no fluorocarbons or VOCs (volatile organic compounds).

Improve Suspension System

You didn’t request the final upgrade. But we saw an opportunity to improve one of the most important features and had to take it.

We want everyone to be able to travel comfortably with a Tortuga. But sizing can be challenging. As a small, bootstrapped business, we can’t support infinite sizes and fits across every product.

But every bag with a hip belt must fit well, or it will be uncomfortable. Some brands don’t include hip belts with their backpacks or make them optional to get around this issue. That’s a cop out, not a solution.

When we launched the Outbreaker, we created the first height-adjustable travel backpack . The hip belt is fixed. You move the shoulder straps up or down to match your torso length for a perfect fit. Travelers appreciated this innovation and the improved fit. The design worked well but had room for improvement.

The Travel Backpack will also adjust to your height for a perfect fit. The adjustment is just easier to make. You’ll adjust the height by moving a “floating” back panel piece connected by velcro. You can easily adjust the shoulder straps up or down quickly.

The Outbreaker used a webbing “ladder” which took longer to adjust and was less flexible in sizing. You had to choose one of the rungs of the ladder to use. With the velcro piece, you can dial in your fit as specifically as you’d like. 

You can also loan your bag to a friend or family member who can quickly adjust the straps to their height while they use it.

Travel Backpack vs. Outbreaker Backpack

You already know that the new Travel Backpacks have a softer shape, are simpler, and have an easier-to-use suspension system.

You’ve also read that they are a more internationally-friendly size, lighter, and use a better (and recycled) fabric. Below is a comparison of the specs of both bags so that you can see the objective improvements.

Each size of the bag is more than 10% lighter.

The larger Travel Backpack is 40L and sized to fit both US and international airlines’ carry on size limits . It’s best for longer international trips of a week or more.

The smaller Travel Backpack is 30L and made for short trips of less than a week. On some flights, you’ll even be able to fit this luggage under the seat in front of you.

What’s Next

We hope that you’re excited about the improvements to the Travel Backpack . We’re confident that the new bags are a massive improvement from the Outbreakers and are excited to share them with you. 

Thank you again for joining us on this journey.

The new Tortuga Travel Backpack will launch on January 17, 2023.

Related Articles

Tortuga V4: A Look Ahead at 2023

Fabric Feature: SHELL200

Tortuga travel backpack pro $350.

Max Carry On Size

Fred Perrotta is the co-founder and CEO of Tortuga. His first backpacking trip to Europe inspired him to start the company. For over a decade, he’s traveled the world from his home base in the Bay Area while working remotely. When he’s on the road, Fred enjoys both walking and eating as much as possible.

Read more from Fred

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Tortuga Outbreaker Travel Backpack 35L Review

Despite the crunchy material and boxy aesthetic, we came to really dig the Tortuga Outbreaker Backpack—which has one of the most comfortable harness systems we’ve tested.

Our Verdict

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• Comfortable harness system
• Lots of internal organization
• The quick access pockets and super handy and a great size for your essentials
• Hip belt is too long
• The harness system and laptop compartment take up a lot of space and weight
• The water bottle pockets are compromised if the pack is at full capacity

Technical Details

Carry-on compliance.

View 97/145 Airlines

Disclaimer: We take the measurements of the bag provided by the manufacturer and compare them to the allowance listed on airline websites. This should be used as a guideline rather than a rule. Bags can change size as you pack them out, and every airline's interpretation of compliance is different. Just because a bag is listed as carry-on compliant here doesn't mean that the airline will interpret it that way.

Like the Look

Polled on Instagram

Weight (lb)

4.6 lb (2.1 kg)

20.3 in x 12.9 in x 8.2 in (51.6 x 32.8 x 20.8 cm)

Notable Materials

YKK Zippers, Nylon, Polyester, PET Waterproof Membrane, Duraflex Hardware, Ariaprene® Foam

Manufacturing Country

Laptop Compartment Size

Warranty Information

Tortuga Common Decency Guarantee

Full Review

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In this review, we’ll be taking a look at the Tortuga Outbreaker Backpack 35L. Known for their range of carry-on backpacks and travel gear, we’ve been impressed with what Tortuga has to offer—so we were excited to get our hands on the Outbreaker to see if it holds up to the likes of the Setout .

We’ve been testing this unisex backpack for just over two months in Detroit, Miami, England, and Spain—so this pack has seen its fair share of adventures already. Let’s dive into the review and see how this jet-setting pack held up to the testing.

Materials & Aesthetic

On first impressions, we were wary of this pack’s boxy shape. However, once we got this pack on, we were pleasantly surprised by how sleek and sharp it looked. The minimal design means that this pack works well for travel adventures and work trips, so we’re digging the versatility it has to offer.

When it comes to branding, it’s super discreet. There’s a black-on-black logo on the front of the pack, followed by logos on the zipper pulls and hip belt buckle. When you open up the pack, you’ll find another Tortuga logo and the words “On Your Terms” and “Tortuga Outbreaker” inside the laptop compartment.

The black material really adds a lot to the sleekness of this pack and the slight gloss of the fabric makes it looks super smart. The Outbreaker Backpack is only available in black, which isn’t a deal-breaker for us (as you’ve probably already guessed). We know that all black-on-black isn’t for everyone, so if you prefer a pop of color then check out the Cotopaxi Allpa where you’ll have plenty of colorway options.

Now, let’s talk about the materials. The Outbreaker Backpack is made from VX21 waterproof sailcloth, which is a combination of 210D Nylon with DWR and UV resistant coating, polyester, and PET film (phew, that was a mouthful). Basically, all that means is, these materials come together to create a highly water-resistant and durable pack that’s built to last.

The materials also give the pack some structure. This means it will keep its shape whether it’s at full capacity or almost empty, which we really like. Plus another point (which we’re super excited about) this pack stands on its own. Yes, you heard that right!

Initially, the crunchy and slightly shiny material was a little off-putting, but when in use we didn’t hear the pack “crunch” once—it turns out silence really is golden! The Ripstop diamond-like pattern on this pack (you can see it when close up) will add more to the durability and strength than aesthetic, but we still think it looks pretty nifty.

The interior of the pack is made from Ripstop nylon—which does exactly what the name suggests. Although it’s not indestructible the Ripstop should prevent any possible tears from getting bigger.

Ariaprene foam—which is comfortable, breathable, hypoallergenic, and non-abrasive—is used for the padding in the shoulder straps. Plus, it’s covered in mesh—which adds some much needed ventilation to keep you cool. But more on the harness system in a minute (we promise!).

Now let’s talk about the zippers—these were a dream to use (does anyone else dream about zippers or is that just us?). The YKK AquaGuard zippers offer durability and water resistance which will keep your items safe and dry—whether you’re enjoying the frequent showers of British Summertime or the rainy season in Asia. The front, main, and laptop compartment all have lockable zippers too, giving you that peace of mind and added security should you need it.

The chunky buckle on the hip belt and hardware around the pack is Duraflex, which is a brand known for its durability. The buckle is easy to use and secure—plus the width and smoothness make it comfortable to wear across your waist for long periods of time.

External Components

Now, let’s start with the harness system—this is a backpack after all! The harness system is one of the most comfortable we’ve tested to date and we’ve been impressed with how adjustable it is.

The first thing to note is the back panel—it was designed with comfort in mind. Now there’s a lot of padding going on here, (some may find it too much) but we found the padding to be in all the right places. Also, this extra padding gives you a lot more ventilation and breathability, which is ideal for those long travel days—nobody likes a sweaty back. Beneath the foam is a solid panel that helps support the weight of the pack comfortably.

The adjustable shoulder straps are just as comfortable. The Ariaprene foam makes them super padded and yes, you guessed it, comfortable. We are impressed with how much pressure and weight is taken off your shoulders. Plus, the fact that the material is non-abrasive stops any friction even if you’re sweaty—making this pack just as comfortable to wear with a tank top as it is a sweater. The shoulder straps are completely adjustable so you can wear this pack higher or lower on your back. On top of the shoulder straps are load lifters, so you can completely adjust the carry to work for you.

We know that there’s no best travel backpack for everyone—every body is different—so the more we can adjust, the better.

On the shoulder straps, there’s an adjustable (if only we had a dollar for every time we say adjustable in this review) sternum strap. This can be moved up and down to find a comfortable position across your chest. Part of the sternum strap is elasticated, which gives some wriggle room as it flexes when you walk and takes off some of the pressure. There’s also some strap management on this harness system, so you can wrangle any loose ends or hide away the sternum strap when not in use—#danglefreeexperience here we come!

The hip belt on this pack does a great job of distributing the weight across your body—and the wide strap and buckle add to the comfort. There are adjustments points where the hip belt attaches to the pack, and by the buckle, to secure this to your body easily. The hip belt is chunky, but the foam is slightly thinner making it more flexible so that it can wrap around your body. Although the hip belt is pretty big, it’s also completely removable. So if it’s not needed or it gets in the way, you have the option to leave it off.

On the hip belt are two quick-grab pockets. These are easier to use when you’re wearing the hip belt and are handy for any small or frequently used items. Although we didn’t need to use these pockets that often, they are handy if you’re on the go and you don’t want to take your pack off. We found that these pockets are big enough to hold a standard sized smartphone (we tested this with the Samsung S8) and they’re useful for cash, coins, cards, and receipts.

We must note that the straps on the hip belt are longer than we would expect, so you’re left with a lot of leftover straps. We found that they could be tucked behind the pockets on the waist pack to keep them out of the way.

On either side of this pack, you’ll find a water bottle pocket. These have a handy tab inside to that helps you get a water bottle in easily. We were able to fit in the Hydro Flask 18 oz Wide Mouth Bottle , however, it’s important to note that if the main compartment is packed to full capacity, it will compromise the space inside these pockets.

Moving onto the front of the pack there are two quick-grab pockets. These are a great size and came in super handy for storing the items that you need to access quickly. The bottom pocket has a lip over the zipper which gives it more protection but does make it more difficult to access if the pack is at full capacity. We used this to keep our toiletries in the Ziploc bag for TSA. The top zipper was used for our earphones, smartphone, and ROAV Sunglasses .

At the top of the pack is a quick-grab handle. The foam in the handle takes the weight when you’re carrying it, plus it comes in handy for grabbing your pack out of those overhead compartments on the plane.

Towards the top of the pack, there are two compression straps on either side. These work well to slightly compress the pack if you’re carrying fewer items. While these aren’t going to make a huge difference (it won’t feel like you’re carrying a daypack) it’s nice to have some versatility.

Inside The Pack

The folks at Tortuga describe this pack as having “obsessive organization” which we are happy to get on board with. If that’s not your style, no need to write this pack off. When the pockets and compartments aren’t in use, they won’t get in the way. That’s the best of both worlds right?

The main compartment opens with a clamshell design, which makes packing super easy and pretty similar to packing a suitcase. So if you’re planning on updating your roller case for a backpack, this bag may be the place to start. To make the most out of this compartment, we recommend using packing cubes to save space and keep your items organized.

Now onto that organization! In the main compartment, there are two slim pockets down either side of the pack. These are handy for smaller items like sunglasses or even your socks and underwear.

On the other side of the main compartment (the lid), there are two mesh pockets that stretch across the width of the bag. These work well for flatter items. We used the Fjallraven Gear Pockets in these, which kept together all of our smaller items. While these pockets can hold a lot more, it’s important to note that if you fill them to capacity, they will start eating up space in the main bucket of this compartment.

Moving onto the front compartment—this seems small, but there’s a lot going on. We like how this compartment opens completely with its clamshell design. This makes accessing everything inside super easy and improves your visibility too. Due to the lockable zippers, we recommend using this pocket for items you want quick access to that are more valuable—this is an ideal place for your passport, cards, keys, and wallet.

Now, like we said, there’s a lot going on in here, so we’ll run you through the features. Starting at the top there’s a large zippered pocket (about the size of half the pack) and above this is a key clip. Underneath the zipper is a lined tablet sleeve that should fit most tablets of any size. On the front of this pocket, there are three pen holders and a slide-in pocket which will hold a small notepad. Then under this, there are three card pockets, another slide-in pocket, and a slightly elasticated pocket. Then (don’t worry we’re almost finished) on the other side of this pocket, there’s a mesh zippered pocket.

On the back of the pack is the laptop compartment. Keeping in with the other compartments in this pack, we’re met with another clamshell design. But, we can’t complain! Due to the internal organization here, this opening makes accessing all the pockets inside easier. The laptop compartment holds up to a 17” laptop (without the case) and is protected by the padded back panel. In front of this is a smaller sized compartment for tablets up to 9.7”. Both of these compartments are padded and lined with a super soft fabric. While we found that these pockets are secure, there’s also a Velcro strap across the top for extra security.

Over on the other side of this pocket, there are three similar-sized mesh zippered pockets. These pockets are ideal for storing your charger and electrical items so that you can keep everything together. The mesh also helps with visibility too.

Durability & Testing

At the time of this review, we’ve been testing the Tortuga Outbreaker Backpack for just over two months in Detroit, Miami, England, and Spain. So far this pack has held up well with no wear or tear to report—we expect it hold up just as well in the future too.

This pack is available in 35L and 45L. From our testing, we’ve found that the 35L version works better on a smaller frame, but if you prefer to pack more, you like a little extra room to pick up items when you travel, or if you’re not worried about carry-on allowances, then the 45L version may work better for you.

Deciding between these two sizes does come down to you and your travel style, and we were impressed with the information Tortuga has on their website showing you how much you can pack in each, plus some extra specifics to help you decide.

Even though there’s a lot of internal organization going on, it’s not overwhelming like the organization in the Eagle Creek Wayfinder . So, if that’s an issue for you, don’t panic, it’s easy to get your head around.

Usage Timeline

Condition: Excellent

• There is a lot of internal organization and some great sized quick access pockets
• The clamshell style main compartment will make packing easier
• Lots of padding on the shoulder straps and back panel
• The lining in the laptop compartment and tablet sleeve is super soft
• The hip belt is way too big
• The separate laptop compartment makes accessing your laptop easy

Slightly crunchy materials, but we’re digging the overall look

The harness system is super comfortable and fully adjustable

This pack is working well as a one bag travel pack and the quick access pockets come in handy

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Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L Review: Best Carry-On Backpack

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The Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L is our pick for the best carry-on backpack. It’s the maximum carry-on size to take on planes with plenty of space and great organisation, and it’s comfortable to carry.

In this Tortuga Travel Backpack review, we share the good and bad, as well as compare it with the Tortuga Outbreaker Backpack (the older version).

Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L Details

Tortuga travel backpack vs tortuga outbreaker, tortuga travel backpack review, tortuga alternatives, tortuga travel backpack summary, more carry-on only travel tips.

Dimensions (cm): 55 x 35 x 20 cm Dimensions (inches): 21.7 x 13.8 x 7.9 inches Volume: 40 litres Weight: 2kg (4.5 lbs) Colour: Black Price: US $350 (free US shipping) Buy from: Tortuga website

Back to Contents

In January 2023, Tortuga released the new Tortuga Travel Backpack . This is an updated version of the Tortuga Outbreaker Backpack with some significant changes.

It comes in 40L and 30L versions, both of which are slightly smaller than the Outbreaker.

This review was originally of the Outbreaker, but as it’s no longer available, we’ve updated it to focus on the new Tortuga Backpack.

Here’s how the new Tortuga Travel Backpack compares to the Tortuga Outbreaker:

• Smaller – The new backpack is slightly smaller at 40L vs 45L. This is so that the bag meets the carry on requirements for international airlines as well as domestic US ones.
• Lighter – It’s 10% lighter at 2kg vs 2.3kg.
• Rounder corners – The new backpack shape is softer and less boxy.
• Recycled fabric – The new fabric is still waterproof, but it’s 100% recycled and is lighter weight and even more durable.
• Improved suspension system – Like the Outbreaker, you can adjust the suspension system for your height. In the new backpack, this is easier to do.
• Fewer pockets – To reduce weight, the new design is simpler with fewer pockets. There’s still plenty of organisation, though.

Everything else stays the same.

Overall, I think these are all positive changes. Check out the Tortuga Travel Backpack here .

Tortuga Travel Backpack Pros

Tortuga was created by travellers for travellers. Fred and Jeremy created the original Tortuga backpack after being disappointed with traditional hiking backpacks while travelling around Europe.

They set out to create their perfect backpack and have since grown into a company that truly understands the needs of urban travellers.

Simon travelled full-time with a Tortuga travel bag for six years—they make the best backpacks that are both practical and stylish.

The Tortuga Travel Backpack is one of the few backpacks we’ve found that meets all of our requirements for long term and digital nomad travel.

Carry-on sized

The Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L is the maximum carry-on size that most airlines allow.

The rectangular design maximises the amount you can take on a plane and makes it easy to pack, especially if you use packing cubes like us.

It’s very spacious and easily fits all of Simon’s stuff including his extensive electronics collection.

Simon took the old Outbreaker on 14 flights in Europe, Africa, and Asia including budget airlines EasyJet and AirAsia. His previous Tortuga V2 came on countless flights in 14 countries including Ryanair. 

The Tortuga Travel Backpack is made from a durable, waterproof fabric that won’t rip or tear.

Simon used his previous Tortuga bags for years without any sign of wear or tear.

Padded hip belt

A padded hip belt is the most difficult feature to find in a carry-on backpack, but we think it’s the most important.

The hip belt transfers the bag’s weight onto your hips and prevents back and shoulder pain. This is especially important if you travel with a lot of heavy electronics like we do.

The Tortuga Travel Backpack has a very robust hip belt, which combined with the suspension system and padded shoulder straps, makes it very comfortable to carry even when Simon’s backpack weighs 12 kg (26 lbs).

Although the Tortuga Travel Backpack is relatively heavy, it doesn’t feel like a burden on his back.

Perfect Fit

The Tortuga Travel Backpack has a height adjustment system, which allows you to adjust the torso height and find your perfect fit.

This means it fits a wide range of people, even those with smaller torsos.

Front-loading like a suitcase

Unlike traditional hiking backpacks that open from the top and make it hard to access your stuff, the Tortuga Backpack opens along the entire front, like a suitcase. It’s much easier to pack and keep things organised.

Laptop sleeve

The fleece-lined laptop compartment is located at the back of the Tortuga Travel Backpack, close to your body for the best weight distribution.

It fits laptops up to 16 inches and there’s enough padding that you could probably even skip a case.

Simon packs his MacBook Pro in a neoprene case first for extra protection and there’s plenty of space for it.

In front of the laptop sleeve, there’s a tablet sleeve where Simon stores his 12-inch iPad Pro.

There are three sections in the backpack, each accessed by a different zip at the top of the bag. This is a little confusing until you learn which section is which.

Front section

The front section unzips halfway and is designed for easy access to small items in transit.

The organiser panel has small pockets for items like your passport, pens, cards, sunglasses, etc.

Behind that, there’s a fleece-lined section for an e-reader. There’s also a clip for keys.

Main section

The middle main section is the largest and unzips on three sides so it’s really easy to pack.

There’s plenty of space for Simon’s large clothes packing cube, electronics cube, shoes, toiletry case, travel towel, and AeroPress coffee maker.

There is a large mesh compartment on the opposite side (useful for dirty laundry or small items).

Electronics compartment

The electronics compartment is at the back and fits a laptop and tablet in separate sleeves.

Opposite there are pockets for accessories like chargers, adapters, cables, etc. (Simon prefers to use an electronics cube in the large main compartment instead).

External pockets

There are also a number of pockets on the exterior of the backpack. On the front, there are two zippered pockets.

The two stretch pockets on the sides fit a water bottle or umbrella.

The small pockets on the hip belt are designed to conveniently stash coins and keys when going through airport security.

Simple design

We love that the Tortuga Backpack has a simple, sleek, black design so it doesn’t stand out too much.

Lockable zippers

We like to lock our backpacks with a small combination lock to prevent opportunistic theft. All three compartments of the Tortuga are lockable.

You do need two locks to fully secure the backpack. The two front compartments are close enough together to share a lock (or Simon keeps the front compartment unlocked for easy access) and you’ll need a second lock for the electronics compartment at the back. Or you could choose just to lock your electronics compartment.

30L version available

The 40L Tortuga Backpack is ideal if you want to pack the maximum possible in your carry-on, but it’s too big for some people, so I’m pleased that Tortuga offers a smaller 30L size.

The 30L has all the same features of the 40L but is smaller (20.5 x 12.2 x 7.5 inches), lighter (4 lbs / 1.8kg), and cheaper ($325).

Free Shipping

Tortuga offers free US shipping and if the backpack doesn’t work out for you after a test pack, return it unused within 30 days for a refund (minus a $15 shipping fee) or exchange.

Order the Tortuga Backpack from the Tortuga website .

Tortuga Travel Backpack Cons

The new Tortuga Travel Backpack is now lighter and smaller than the Outbreaker, which were the two main cons in our previous review.

The Tortuga Travel Backpack costs $350, but your luggage is the most important item you travel with, so we think it’s worth the investment and it will last for many years.

No shipping outside the US

The backpack is only available from the Tortuga website and they no longer ship internationally. Your best option is to use a freight forwarder.

Osprey Farpoint 40

I travelled for many years with the Osprey Farpoint 40 .

At 38 litres and 1.3 kg (2.87 lbs) it’s a lot smaller and lighter than the Tortuga bags.

There’s less organisation and the laptop sleeve isn’t as large or well designed as in the Tortuga, and it’s at the front of the bag.

This worked with my light MacBook Air, but for heavier laptops, it’s more comfortable to carry the laptop closest to your body.

The Osprey Farpoint 40 does have a hip belt and is comfortable to carry.

The Osprey Farpoint 40 is worth considering if you want a smaller, simpler, cheaper, and lighter backpack and you aren’t travelling with a lot of heavy electronics. 

Minaal Carry-On

Many digital nomads and long-term travellers end up choosing between Tortuga’s backpacks and Minaal’s.

The Minaal 3.0 is a stylish carry-on backpack, but although it costs the same as the Tortuga, it’s only 35 litres and you have to pay extra for a hip belt (which doesn’t look as comfortable as Tortuga’s). 

The number of carry-on travel backpacks on the market is growing but most miss features that we consider necessary like hip straps, front-loading design, or lockable zippers.

The Tortuga travel backpack is an extremely well-designed bag that’s ideal for anyone who wants to maximise the amount they can travel with carry-on only.

It looks great and is spacious, durable, comfortable, and has plenty of organisation including excellent protection for your laptop and tablet. 

If you want a waterproof bag with lots of organisation and a robust and adjustable suspension system, then the Tortuga is the best travel backpack for you. 

Click here to buy the Tortuga Travel backpack on the Tortuga website .

See our carry-on only packing list for exactly what we travel with.

Disclosure: Tortuga sent Simon the Outbreaker backpack for review, but he wouldn’t have travelled with it for a year if he didn’t genuinely think it’s an excellent bag. 

11 Comments

After reading reviews of the Minaal from digital nomads who’ve USED one, I’m a bit surprised by the casual way you dismiss it. The waist belt “looks” flimsy and uncomfortable to you? Really? Every review I’ve seen from someone who’s used the pack says otherwise. On a different note … whatever Simon may think of the Tortuga Setout, it’s a real compromise for anyone traveling in Europe and Asia, as the dimensions exceed carry-on limits for many airlines. Others may see it differently, but in my book that’s a dealbreaker.

Reply ↓

Hi Stephen, The Minaal waist belt does look flimsier than the Tortuga’s and Simon is quite cautious about this after having back issues with his previous backpack’s flimsy strap. He would be more willing to try it out, though, if it wasn’t for the fact that the Minaal doesn’t actually come with the waist belt—so it’s $299 plus an extra $39 for the optional waist belt!

We have travelled on countless budget airlines in Europe and Asia and have never had a problem taking the Tortuga Setout or Outbreaker on them. We find the airlines don’t notice the extra few centimetres at all.

If the Minaal works for you though, then that’s great. It is a nice looking bag! Erin

Hi! HELP!!!! I’m 5’3 and traveling to Europe in a few months. I want to get the 45l – but – is this backpack going to be to big for me?

The latest Outbreaker backpacks can be adjusted to fit different size torsos so you might be OK. You can read how to check if it will fit here:

I’m 5’4 and would go for the 35L size. I’d recommend ordering one and returning it if it doesn’t work for you. The Tortuga customer service is really good.

Hi, I like your stories and your reviews of Tortuga. I do not travel for very long time. So I think 35L should be enough for me. Since I have neck problems, the suspension system is essential to me. Could you please tell me if there is an internal frame in Tortuga? Thank you.

It doesn’t have an internal frame but it is very supportive. Simon got back/shoulder pain with his last backpack and has had no problems with the Tortuga.

Thanks for the review! Do you still find these are easily accepted as carry-ons? I just bought the osprey 40 and noticed that it’s a little oversized for some airlines, including Air Asiana, Jet Blue and KLM.

Yes, the Osprey Farpoint 40 and Outbreaker have been accepted as carry-ons on dozens of flights we’ve taken, even when they are technically a little over the size allowed. We find airlines rarely measure or weigh backpacks.

Thank you for the great review! I love your blog, wish you wrote more often!! :):)

Thanks for the review, Erin and Simon. Love that you’re traveling with an Aeropress. I just used mine this morning.

Good coffee helps keep Simon happy on the road :)

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Tortuga Outbreaker Review: The Best Backpack for Long-Term Travel

When you’re traveling hard — I’m talking mile after mile, flight after flight, hotel after hotel, and even year after year — the best backpack that delivers on a pretty specific set of needs is what you should have. It needs to be comfortable enough to carry around for however long it takes to navigate the bad directions to your Airbnb. It needs to offer all the organizational elements necessary to keep things from falling into chaos. Perhaps more than anything, it needs to be capable of carrying anything and everything you need for a lengthy bout of travel. Ideally, it will also fit in an airplane’s overhead bin, and a dash of style doesn’t hurt.

The Unrivaled Capacity of the Tortuga Outbreaker 45L

The smart design of the tortuga outbreaker, tortuga outbreaker value: lots of bag for a reasonable price.

I can attest from firsthand experience that no one backpack nor suitcase delivers on all of these fronts like the Tortuga Outbreaker — specifically the 45-liter version. My travels have been more or less ongoing over the past decade, and ever since discovering the Outbreaker in 2016 it has been on my back nearly every step of the way. I’ve tried bags from other leading brands here and there, but I always go back to Tortuga.

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Let’s start with the main reason the Outbreaker is so perfectly suited for long-term travel: its cavernous capacity.

I’ve traveled with other 45L bags, but somehow Tortuga has managed to make its layout more expansive, better organized, and more carry-on compliant than any bag I’ve come across. It’s incredible how much stuff I’ve managed to pack into it.

In the main compartment, I usually have an extra pair of shoes, flip-flops, shirts/pants/ shorts /socks/underwear for five days, a set of gym clothes , a light jacket or sweatshirt, a travel-sized power strip, and some other random electronics, my toiletry bag, and even a book or two. Most of this is fitted into a single open space, with some of it organized into six interior pockets. All of that, and we’ve just looked at the first of three main compartments.

Running the full length of this is a second compartment that has a well-padded space for a laptop resting safely against your back, a soft-surface pocket for a tablet or ebook reader, one large and two medium pockets where I usually have my “office” and art supplies, and still more open interior space. Then on the front of the bag is a half-length compartment with a soft-surface pocket, two large pockets, several pen and small item slots, and a larger open space. Put a few books or guides into the two exterior pockets as well as a few odds and ends into the hip-belt pockets, and you’ve got an insane amount of gear. Oh, and there’s a water bottle holder.

The Outbreaker manages to pack all of that capacity into a surprisingly comfortable, carry-on friendly frame. The shoulder straps and hip-belt are well-padded and comfortable, and the whole thing sits well on your back. I’ve wandered cities (lost) for hours on end, Outbreaker on my back, and it’s never left my back aching. This is most certainly not a claim I can make about every bag.

While the largest edition of the Outbreaker — the 45L — is only rated for large US carry-on limits (there is a trimmed down international carry-on version), I’ve carried mine onto planes of all sizes all over the world, and I can’t think of a single time I’ve ever been forced to check it. That isn’t to say that I’ve never checked it. I have, and it emerged from the perils of the baggage tossers unscathed.

That attests to the durable craftsmanship of the Outbreaker. I have a pair of friends who have used theirs through six years of hard and fast traveling and report that the padding in theirs is only just starting to lose its cushion. And in the same period of equally relentless travel, the only issue I’ve had involved a zipper-tab that finally snapped loose. The zipper itself is perfectly fine, and all it took was a thirty-cent replacement tab for it to be good as new. That happened after thousands of openings and closings, often under the strain of the bag being stuffed to the gills.

It’s a tough bag, is what I’m saying.

What’s more, it’s also fairly sleek looking. There are other bags out there that place more emphasis on style, but in doing so they compromise on utility. When all is said and done, if you’re going to be traveling for months or years on end, your priority needs to be practicality. That isn’t to say that the Outbreaker throws all thought for looks out the window; it’s just lower on the list of considerations.

The 45L Tortuga Outbreaker clocks in at $299, which places it somewhere in the upper-moderate price range among travel backpacks. Based on the outstanding capacity and pure mile-after-mile durability of the Outbreaker, I think that price is a steal. It’s not going to come apart on you in some airport baggage claim, and the shoulder straps aren’t going to give out while lost in the backstreets of Bangkok.

Suffice to say that if you’re looking for a backpack that will do its job admirably through year after year and countless miles of travel, the Tortuga Outbreaker is a worthwhile investment.

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Tortuga Outbreaker Vs. Peak Design Travel Bag

Introduction

Welcome to the ultimate showdown between two of the most popular travel backpacks on the market: the Tortuga Outbreaker and the Peak Design Travel Bag. Whether you’re a frequent traveler or a digital nomad, finding the perfect backpack is essential for a comfortable and organized journey. In this article, we will compare these two backpacks extensively, taking into account their design, capacity, comfort, durability, security, and price. By the end of this article, you will have a clear understanding of which backpack is the best fit for your travel needs.

The Tortuga Outbreaker and the Peak Design Travel Bag are both designed with the modern traveler in mind. They offer smart features, sleek designs, and durable construction, making them highly sought-after choices in the travel backpack market.

The Tortuga Outbreaker boasts a rugged and minimalist design that is suitable for all types of travel. It is made from high-quality materials such as sailcloth and YKK zippers, ensuring durability and longevity. On the other hand, the Peak Design Travel Bag features a sleek and stylish design that is perfect for urban adventurers. Its weatherproof nylon exterior and customizable organization system make it a versatile choice for any type of trip.

Both backpacks prioritize functionality and ease of use. They are equipped with a variety of pockets and compartments to keep your belongings organized and accessible. From dedicated laptop and tablet sleeves to hidden passport pockets, these backpacks have thought of everything. Additionally, they feature comfortable shoulder straps and adjustable sternum straps to ensure a secure and comfortable fit for all-day wear.

While both the Tortuga Outbreaker and the Peak Design Travel Bag offer premium design and functionality, they have unique features that set them apart. In the next sections, we will delve into the specifics of each backpack and compare their capacity, organization, comfort, durability, security, and price. So, let’s dive in!

Design and Construction

When it comes to design and construction, both the Tortuga Outbreaker and the Peak Design Travel Bag are built to withstand the rigors of travel. However, they have distinct approaches that cater to different aesthetics and preferences.

The Tortuga Outbreaker is known for its clean and minimalistic design. It features a boxy shape with straight lines, giving it a sleek and professional look. The backpack is available in two sizes, 35 liters and 45 liters, allowing travelers to choose the one that best suits their needs. The Outbreaker is constructed using sailcloth material, known for its durability and water-resistance, ensuring that your belongings remain safe and dry even in challenging weather conditions. The YKK zippers used in the backpack are known for their reliability and smooth operation, adding to the overall quality of the design.

On the other hand, the Peak Design Travel Bag focuses on a more urban-inspired design. It has a sleek and streamlined silhouette, perfect for those who prefer a modern and stylish aesthetic. The backpack is available in a 45-liter capacity, providing ample space for all your travel essentials. The exterior of the bag is made from weatherproof nylon, offering protection against the elements. It also features a unique MagLatch closure system, which allows for easy access and secure closure with just one hand.

In terms of construction, both backpacks are built with attention to detail and high-quality materials. The Tortuga Outbreaker utilizes reinforced stitching and sturdy hardware to ensure long-lasting performance. The backpack’s straps are padded and contoured for maximum comfort, reducing strain on your shoulders and back during long journeys.

Similarly, the Peak Design Travel Bag is constructed using premium materials that are built to last. The bag’s handles and straps are reinforced with hypalon, a synthetic rubber known for its strength and durability. The shoulder straps are padded and adjustable, providing a comfortable fit for users of all sizes. Additionally, the Travel Bag features a stowable waist belt for added support during heavier loads.

Overall, both the Tortuga Outbreaker and the Peak Design Travel Bag excel in terms of design and construction. The Outbreaker offers a clean and minimalist design, while the Travel Bag provides a more urban-inspired aesthetic. Ultimately, the choice comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of your travel style.

Capacity and Organization

When it comes to capacity and organization, the Tortuga Outbreaker and the Peak Design Travel Bag shine in their own unique ways. Let’s delve into the details of each backpack’s storage options and organizational features.

The Tortuga Outbreaker is available in two sizes: 35 liters and 45 liters. The 35-liter version is great for minimalist travelers or those going on shorter trips, while the 45-liter version offers more space for longer journeys or those who need to carry additional gear. Both sizes feature a clamshell design, allowing the backpack to fully open like a suitcase for easy packing and access to your belongings.

Inside the Outbreaker, you’ll find a spacious main compartment with compression straps to secure your items and maximize space. It also includes a padded laptop compartment that can accommodate up to a 17-inch laptop, as well as a separate tablet sleeve. The backpack boasts numerous organizational pockets and compartments, including a quick-access front pocket, a water bottle pocket, and internal mesh pockets for smaller essentials. The addition of a removable and adjustable hip belt provides extra support for heavier loads and can be tucked away when not in use.

On the other hand, the Peak Design Travel Bag offers a single 45-liter capacity, making it suitable for those who need more storage space. It features a unique FlexFold divider system that allows you to customize the internal organization according to your needs. The dividers can be adjusted or completely removed, allowing you to create compartments for different types of gear or clothing.

The Travel Bag also includes a dedicated laptop and tablet compartment that can fit up to a 15-inch laptop. The compartment design features innovative origami-style folding, providing additional protection for your devices. In terms of organization, the backpack offers multiple zippered pockets, mesh pockets, and internal expansion pockets for smaller items like chargers, cables, and toiletries. Moreover, it includes external carry straps and attachment points for optional accessory pouches or external gear attachment.

Both the Tortuga Outbreaker and the Peak Design Travel Bag prioritize organization and ease of access. They provide ample space for your belongings, with thoughtful compartments and pockets to keep everything in its place. The decision between the two will ultimately depend on your specific storage needs and preferences.

Comfort and Fit

When it comes to comfort and fit, both the Tortuga Outbreaker and the Peak Design Travel Bag are designed with the traveler’s comfort in mind. Let’s explore the features that contribute to their comfort and how well they fit different body types.

The Tortuga Outbreaker is designed to prioritize comfort during long hours of wear. It features padded and contoured shoulder straps that distribute weight evenly across your shoulders, reducing strain and fatigue. The straps are also adjustable, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your body. Additionally, the backpack has a molded back panel with padded lumbar support, providing extra comfort and stability.

The Outbreaker offers an adjustable sternum strap, which helps to distribute weight evenly and prevent the backpack from sagging or shifting during movement. It also has a removable and adjustable hip belt, which can be utilized to transfer some weight from your shoulders to your hips, especially useful when carrying heavier loads. The ability to customize the fit ensures that the backpack sits comfortably on your back, regardless of your body type or size.

Similarly, the Peak Design Travel Bag is designed to prioritize comfort during extended periods of use. It features padded shoulder straps with adjustable sternum straps, allowing for a secure and comfortable fit. The backpack also includes a stowable waist belt, which can be deployed to provide additional support and reduce the strain on your shoulders and back.

The Travel Bag’s shoulder straps are contoured and well-padded, ensuring that they don’t dig into your shoulders even when the bag is fully loaded. Additionally, the backpack’s back panel is made from a breathable mesh material, promoting airflow and reducing sweat buildup during hot and humid conditions.

Both backpacks are designed to accommodate different body types and sizes. The Tortuga Outbreaker offers adjustable straps and an adjustable hip belt, allowing for a personalized fit. The Peak Design Travel Bag also provides adjustable straps and a stowable waist belt, ensuring a comfortable fit for users of varying heights and body shapes.

Ultimately, the decision between the Tortuga Outbreaker and the Peak Design Travel Bag in terms of comfort and fit depends on your personal preference and body type. It’s important to try on both backpacks, if possible, to determine which one feels the most comfortable and fits your body the best.

Durability and Weather Resistance

When it comes to durability and weather resistance, the Tortuga Outbreaker and the Peak Design Travel Bag are designed to withstand the demands of travel. Let’s take a closer look at their construction and materials to assess their ability to handle various conditions.

The Tortuga Outbreaker is renowned for its durability. It is constructed using rugged sailcloth material, which is known for its strength and resistance to abrasions. This ensures that the backpack can withstand the wear and tear of frequent use and resist damage from rough handling or harsh environments. The Outbreaker also features YKK zippers, which are known for their durability and smooth operation, ensuring that your belongings remain secure and protected.

In terms of weather resistance, the Outbreaker is designed to withstand various weather conditions. The sailcloth material is highly water-resistant, keeping your belongings dry even during light rain or splashes. However, it’s important to note that the backpack is not completely waterproof, so it’s recommended to use a rain cover or pack sensitive items in waterproof bags during heavy downpours or water activities.

The Peak Design Travel Bag also excels in durability and weather resistance. It is constructed from weatherproof nylon material, which provides excellent protection against the elements. The nylon is highly resistant to tears and abrasions, ensuring the backpack can withstand rough handling and demanding travel conditions. The bag’s zippers are also made from sturdy materials, known for their durability and reliability.

In terms of weather resistance, the Travel Bag’s weatherproof nylon exterior offers excellent protection against light rain and splashes. However, similarly to the Outbreaker, it’s important to note that the backpack is not fully waterproof. It’s advisable to use a rain cover or utilize waterproof bags for added protection during heavy rainfall or water activities.

Both the Tortuga Outbreaker and the Peak Design Travel Bag are built to withstand the rigors of travel and are designed with durability and weather resistance in mind. However, it’s important to remember their limitations in extreme weather conditions to ensure the protection of your belongings.

Security and Accessibility

Security and accessibility are two crucial factors to consider when choosing a travel backpack. Let’s examine how the Tortuga Outbreaker and the Peak Design Travel Bag address these aspects to keep your belongings safe and easily accessible.

The Tortuga Outbreaker incorporates several features to enhance security. The main compartment of the backpack opens from the back panel, providing an extra layer of protection against potential theft. This design feature prevents unauthorized access to the contents of your backpack while you’re wearing it. Additionally, the Outbreaker features lockable zippers, allowing you to secure your belongings and provide an added deterrent to potential theft. The backpack also includes a hidden passport pocket, providing a discreet and secure location for essential travel documents.

On the other hand, the Peak Design Travel Bag combines security and accessibility through its innovative MagLatch closure system. The MagLatch features magnetic fasteners that allow for quick and easy one-handed access to your belongings while also providing a secure and reliable closure. The system also includes an adjustable strap that can cinch the bag tight, further securing the contents. Additionally, the Travel Bag has lockable zippers that allow you to secure the main compartment for added peace of mind.

In terms of accessibility, both backpacks offer thoughtful design features. The Tortuga Outbreaker’s clamshell design allows for easy packing and access to your belongings. You can fully open the backpack like a suitcase, allowing for quick and convenient packing and unpacking. The organization pockets and compartments are well laid-out and easily accessible, ensuring that you can reach your essentials without hassle.

The Peak Design Travel Bag also prioritizes accessibility with its unique FlexFold dividers and origami-style folding back panel. The dividers enable you to customize the internal organization to suit your needs, providing easy access to your gear. The origami-inspired back panel allows the backpack to expand or contract based on your packing needs, making it easy to access your belongings even when the bag is fully packed.

Both the Tortuga Outbreaker and the Peak Design Travel Bag strike a balance between security and accessibility. They incorporate features that keep your belongings safe from theft while also providing easy access to your essentials. Depending on your preferences and priorities, you can choose the backpack that best aligns with your needs.

Price and Value

When considering any purchase, price and value are important factors to weigh. Let’s explore the price ranges and the value offered by the Tortuga Outbreaker and the Peak Design Travel Bag.

The Tortuga Outbreaker is priced at the higher end of the market, reflecting its high-quality construction and thoughtful design features. The 35-liter version of the Outbreaker typically falls within the range of $250 to $300, while the 45-liter version ranges from $300 to $350. While this may seem like a significant investment, it’s important to consider the long-lasting durability and functionality that the Outbreaker provides. The remarkable build quality and the range of features make it a worthwhile investment for frequent travelers who value organization and durability.

On the other hand, the Peak Design Travel Bag is also priced in the higher range of travel backpacks. The 45-liter Travel Bag typically ranges from $300 to $350. While the price may be a bit steep, the Travel Bag offers innovative features, durable construction, and a versatile design. With its customizable organization system, weatherproof construction, and convenient accessibility, it is an excellent option for travelers who value both style and functionality.

When comparing the price and value of the Tortuga Outbreaker and the Peak Design Travel Bag, it’s essential to consider your specific needs and preferences. Both backpacks offer premium features and durable construction, making them worthy investments for avid travelers.

Ultimately, the decision of which backpack to choose comes down to weighing the features, build quality, and price against your personal requirements and budget. Consider the durability, organization, comfort, and aesthetics of each backpack, as well as the value they bring to your travel experiences.

Remember, a well-built and versatile travel backpack is an investment that can accompany you on countless adventures. Choose the one that best aligns with your needs and offers the most value for your money.

After evaluating the Tortuga Outbreaker and the Peak Design Travel Bag in terms of design, capacity, organization, comfort, durability, security, and price, it’s clear that both backpacks excel in their own unique ways. Choosing the best one for you ultimately depends on your specific travel needs and preferences.

If you prioritize a clean and minimalistic design, along with a variety of organizational pockets and compartments, the Tortuga Outbreaker is an excellent choice. Its durable construction and thoughtful features make it a reliable companion for travelers who value organization and durability.

On the other hand, if you prefer a more urban-inspired design and want a backpack with customizable organization, the Peak Design Travel Bag is a fantastic option. Its weatherproof construction and innovative features make it a stylish and functional choice for any type of trip.

In terms of comfort, both backpacks offer adjustable shoulder straps, contoured back panels, and options for hip belt support, ensuring a comfortable fit for all-day wear. When it comes to durability, both the Outbreaker and the Travel Bag are constructed with high-quality materials that can withstand the demands of travel. However, it’s important to note that both backpacks are water-resistant but not completely waterproof, so precautions should be taken in heavy downpours or water activities.

In terms of security, the Outbreaker’s back panel access and lockable zippers provide an additional layer of security, while the Travel Bag’s MagLatch closure system offers convenience and peace of mind. Both backpacks have features to keep your belongings safe and easily accessible.

When it comes to price, both the Tortuga Outbreaker and the Peak Design Travel Bag are priced in the higher range of travel backpacks, reflecting their quality and features. Consider your budget and the value each backpack brings to determine the best fit for you.

In conclusion, both the Tortuga Outbreaker and the Peak Design Travel Bag are excellent choices for travelers who value durability, organization, and style. Consider your specific needs, preferences, and budget to make the final decision. Whichever backpack you choose, both are sure to enhance your travel experiences and provide a reliable and stylish companion on your adventures.

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Travel backpack pro vs. outbreaker backpack, what's changed.

The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro  is our newest and best flagship backpack. The Outbreaker Backpack was the previous version. 

The new pack is based on six years of feedback and reviews of the Outbreaker. 

At Tortuga, our goal is to make evergreen products that last for years and never become obsolete or go out of style. However, when we see opportunities to improve our products, we take them. 

Technology has advanced since we released the Outbreaker. To stay ahead, we’ve incorporated the latest, most sustainable fabrics, best hardware, and most advanced construction methods so that you’re always traveling with the highest-performance, most earth-friendly gear.

Keep reading to learn how we incorporated your feedback and the latest material technologies into an updated travel backpack.

More Carry On Compliant

Maximize your packing space while still being carry-on-compliant, even on international airlines. The Travel Backpack Pro 40L is 55 x 35 x 20 cm, the largest size that can still be carried on most airlines.

The Outbreaker Backpack 45L was 22 x 14 x 9 inches. Forty-five liters is the maximum size that can be carried on US airlines but is too big to be carried onto some international and budget airlines.

When we asked, a majority of our customers preferred the slightly smaller, international size. The new size will maximize your packing space and compatibility with airline baggage rules. 

Greater compatibility shouldn’t mean less packing space. This brings us to our next update.

Lighter Weight

To make sure that you aren’t losing any packing space with the size update, the Travel Backpack is also simpler and lighter than the Outbreaker.

To cut weight, we simplified the laptop compartment and reduced the number of zippers in the bag. 

The Travel Backpack Pro's measurements are smaller. But, the simplified design means that you have the same amount of packing space as you did in the Outbreaker. 

You’ll also have less weight to carry. The Travel Backpack Pro is 0.6 lb (12%) lighter than the Outbreaker.

Improved Shape

You also asked for a less boxy backpack. A perfect rectangle offers the most packing volume but doesn’t make for the best looking bag.

The Travel Backpack has a softer, less rectangular shape. The improved silhouette means your bag will look better while still fitting just as much stuff.

Recycled Materials

Sustainability is important to Tortuga and our customers.

To reduce our environmental footprint, we’ve used a range of recycled fabrics over the years. The Outbreaker Backpack had a recycled lining. But the Travel Backpack has recycled lining and body fabric . 

You should feel good about your impact on the planet without having to sacrifice high-end performance. Read more about our fully-recycled SHELL200 material .

Easier to Adjust

Travelers demand flexibility. Even in how their travel backpack fits.

The Outbreaker Backpack was the first travel backpack with a fully-adjustable suspension system allowing it to fit your body perfectly. The Travel Backpack is now even easier to adjust so that you can get the perfect fit in seconds. Or share your bag with a family member or friend who needs to adjust the bag to fit their body.

You can quickly adjust the shoulder straps up or down for a perfect fit with the easy-to-use “peel and stick” velcro system.

What Hasn’t Changed?

The improvements above add up to a significantly better backpack. But the most important features of Tortuga backpacks haven’t changed. 

Like all previous generations of packs, the Travel Backpack is still:

• Carry-on-sized
• Easy to pack
• Comfortable to wear
• Built to last

These four features are non-negotiable. 

Learn more about the Travel Backpack Pro .

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The 11 Best Carry-on Backpacks of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Our simulations reveal which bags you can count on

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

TripSavvy / Chloe Jeong

A solid backpack is key to a successful trip. Think about it: You can use it as a carry-on, and if you pack light, it'll be the only piece of luggage you bring on a trip. It won't weigh you down as you rush to catch the inter-terminal train at the airport, and it'll look good on you as you stroll the streets of your destination. Find a good travel backpack, and it will serve you for years to come.

There’s a lot to consider when looking for a backpack to take you through all kinds of situations and environments. Waterproof, anti-theft, stylish, lightweight, wheels or no wheels—all things to keep in mind as you shop. To help you make the right choice, we tested 32 carry-on backpacks in our New York testing lab and in the real world. We tested for capacity, design, comfort, durability, and value.

Final Verdict

Product selection, how we tested, other carry-on backpacks we tested.

• What to Look For

Why Trust TripSavvy

Best overall, cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack.

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

Super durable material

Very comfortable with multiple carry methods

Lighter and more rugged than previous models

Nothing yet

Does the perfect travel backpack exist? We’re not sure, but we can’t think of one that comes closer than the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L. This second version of Cotopaxi’s best-selling backpack is rugged and comfy, has excellent organization capabilities, and is the perfect size to throw in an overhead bin, toss in a vehicle, and huff around from train to hostel.

The pack uses burly TPU-coated 1000-denier polyester and lightweight 840-denier ballistic nylon paneling. It has excellent weight distribution with comfy shoulder and sternum straps and hip belts, or stow the straps and carry the pack with side handles. The inside features multiple pockets of different sizes that we found perfect for separating clean and dirty clothes, electronics, and shoes. Bonus: It comes with a rainfly to protect it from the weather.

Capacity: 35 liters | Weight: 3 pounds, 8 ounces | Dimensions: 20 x 12 x 8 inches | Materials: TPU-coated 1000-denier polyester and 840-denier ballistic nylon

TripSavvy / Jhett Thompson

Best Overall, Runner-Up

Osprey fairview 40.

Quite spacious while remaining carry-on sized

Keeps belongings secure

Good padding and weight distribution

Osprey’s women-specific Fairview 40 pack impressed our tester with its size, space, and compartments. “This bag has a lot of compartments and a lot of straps to hold everything in place,” our tester reported. Despite the bag fitting a bit large, our tester said it was still very comfortable to wear. Osprey employs its proprietary Lightwire Frame Suspension, which helps spread the weight across the back panel and from the harness to the hip belt.

Despite being a 40-liter pack, it weighs just about 3 pounds, thanks to the lightweight nylon ripstop material and frame. “It did not hurt my back, and I like how most of the weight was shifted to my lower back,” our tester mentioned. Besides the fit, we also appreciated that all straps are stowable, making it easy in case you need to check the bag on a plane (which is possible on smaller planes with this larger-capacity pack). For the men’s version of the same pack, check out the Farpoint 40 .

Capacity: 38 liters (extra-small/small size) | Weight: 3 pounds, 1 ounce | Dimensions: 19.3 x 13.8 x 8 inches | Materials: 210-denier nylon mini hex diamond ripstop and 600-denier packcloth

Best Budget

Vancropak 40l travel backpack.

• Capacity 4 /5
• Design 3 /5
• Comfort 4 /5

Great for a short-to-medium-length trip

Could double as a business travel pack

Feature packed and user friendly

Lacks tech compartment

Cloth material could get dirty easily

This 40-liter pack checks all the boxes, including excellent value. Vancropak says it fits enough for trips between three and seven days, and we’d have to agree. “It fit everything even though I packed quickly and not thoughtfully or strategically,” our tester said. “It’s perfect for a weekend trip when you want to pack extra ‘just in case’ outfits or items. It even expands to provide more room. It has extra pockets, opens like a suitcase, has many different handles, and backpack straps that can be tucked and zipped away.” Compression straps also help shrink the bag back down after being packed.

And if you weren’t convinced yet of its value, it also includes packing cubes. “Its business-casual aesthetic makes it ideal for short business trips, too,” a tester added. One nitpick? There’s no laptop sleeve. But our testers thought the other features—and comfort—more than made up for that slight issue.

Capacity: 40 liters | Weight: 3.98 pounds | Dimensions: 20 x 13.7 x 6.2 inches | Materials: Water-resistant polyester

Asenlin 40L Travel Backpack

Functional straps

Multiple ways to carry

Not too weighty

Our tester didn’t love the style

If you didn’t dig the budget pack above, behold another excellent value travel pack. Like the Vancropak, the Asenlin Travel Backpack also includes three packing cubes. Our testers found they could easily fit everything needed for a weekend trip. They also liked the internal straps for organization and the external straps for compression. “It offers three different carrying methods, which is nice,” the testers reported. “It has a lot of different pockets and storage areas. The bottle holder on the side also unzips to expand, which is a thoughtful addition.”

Our testers liked how comfortable the bag was to wear and that it wasn’t overly heavy (the brand claims it weighs less than 3 pounds). We also believe this could double as a business travel bag.

Capacity: 40 liters | Weight: 2.7 pounds | Dimensions: 18.5 x 12.5 x 9.5 inches | Materials: Water-resistant polyester Oxford cloth

Best for Business Travel

Nomatic travel bag.

• Comfort 3 /5

Fits about a week’s worth of items

Loads of internal organization

Comes with an additional laundry bag

Uncomfortable to carry at times

Some scuff marks after tossing around

While we certainly love this bag's sleek and simplistic aesthetic, there’s a lot more to it than just looks. It’s durable and water-resistant and has multiple carry options (e.g., duffel and over the shoulders), a separate shoe compartment, lots of tech organization, and a TSA-ready laptop sleeve.

Our testers loved the capacity of this pack. “It easily fit everything on the list with plenty of room to spare,” one tester said. “I think everything you would need for up to a week away would fit easily.” The pronounced rectangular shape of the bag made it extra easy to pack and helped organize folded clothes. “The bag had two different shoe pockets, a laptop sleeve, and many other compartments for both smaller clothing items and even some work supplies,” a tester reported.

The one drawback of this pack was our testers didn’t find it the most comfortable. Specifically, the straps were stiff and dug into one tester’s neck. Overall, though, our testers were very pleased with the pack and thought it was worth the fit, especially for the design and ease of packing.

Capacity: 40 liters | Weight: 3.4 pounds | Dimensions: 19 x 21 x 14 inches | Materials: Not listed

Best Multi-use

Peak design travel backpack 45l.

• Value 4.5 /5

Excellent capacity

Easy to handle

Thoughtful storage solutions

This 45-liter travel pack from Peak Design debuted at the Outdoor Retailer Expo in 2018 and promptly won many awards. A few years later, it still holds up. Peak Design basically thought of everything when designing this pack. The outside features weatherproof recycled 400-denier nylon canvas and ultralight padded foam. It includes grab handles on each side, stowable hip belts, and a sternum strap. The inside has multiple pockets for organization and loads of room for trips of four days or longer.

Our testers loved the size and the zippers allowing access from four different sides of the bag. “It was super easy to pack, and there were just enough organization solutions to provide options for different packing strategies,” a tester said. “I also loved how many handles there were. A grab handle on all four main sides of the bag makes it super easy to maneuver, especially when putting it in the overhead compartment.”

Testers also liked the sheath built into the pack to stow the hip belt and the small pocket on the belt for stashing quick-grab items like lip balm, keys, or cards. They also enjoyed the water bottle pockets on both sides and the pack's comfort. Oh, and this pack is 100 percent carbon neutral. The only issue they saw was the price—it’s one of the most expensive on this list. But if you can look at this as an investment, the durability suggests it should last for many years. It's certainly carry-on luggage that any travel-savvy guy can appreciate.

Capacity: 45 liters | Weight: 4.5 pounds | Dimensions: 22 x 13 x 9.5 inches | Materials: Weatherproof 100 percent recycled 400-denier nylon canvas external shell and 900-denier waterproof bottom liner

TripSavvy / Conor Ralph

Most Comfortable

Topo designs global travel bag 40l.

Topo Designs

Excellent internal organization

Many different carrying options

Great for long travel days

Could be roomier

If your travel involves carrying your backpack for long periods, we recommend Topo Designs' Global Travel Bag. This super durable pack is also super comfortable with plush and padded shoulder straps and a hip belt. We also love that there are multiple ways to carry this pack with a comfy and padded sling. Its construction includes durable and recycled nylons with a canvas feel. And it meets Fair Wear certification standards, ensuring fair labor practices.

“There are a ton of compartments and pockets, so a lot of options for staying organized with small or loose items in the absence of packing cubes,” one tester said. “I could easily see places to stash cords, travel docs, electronics, water bottles, and more.”

While our testers liked a lot about this bag—including its durability—the comfort won them over. “All the features built into the bag suggest it's intended to create maximum comfort for someone who anticipates carrying the bag for a more extended period of time,” our tester concluded.

Capacity: 40 liters | Weight: 3 pounds, 10.4 ounces | Dimensions: 22.5 x 14 x 7.5 inches | Materials: 1000-denier recycled nylon, 400-denier recycled nylon, 210-denier recycled nylon, 1680-denier recycled ballistic nylon

Best Splurge

Bellroy transit backpack plus.

Flat opening made for easy packing

Comfortable to carry

Long lasting

Minimal internal organization

If you weren't convinced by our business travel pick above, consider this your alternative. This pack's sleek, durable, and comfortable design makes it ideal for business and formal travel. Our testers found it easy to fit enough items for up to three or four days away. Lighter packers could stretch this to five days. The inside is designed more like a typical carry-on pack with one large compartment.

“This bag felt super light on my back and was padded in all the right places,” a tester reported. “It has adjustable sternum and waist straps that you can tuck into the back of the pack when you don't want to use them, which is a genius feature.” Our testers were also impressed with the bag's durability, as it survived being tossed around our lab with zero marks or scuffs.

Capacity: 38 liters | Weight: 3.3 pounds | Dimensions: 21.7 x 15 x 9.4 inches | Materials: Recycled Dura nylon

Samsonite Silhouette 17 Backpack

• Design 4 /5
• Durability 4 /5

Suitcase-like opening allows easy access

Eco-friendly materials

Suitable for long travel days

Internal organization may be overcomplicated for some

Launched in 1958, Samsonite’s Silhouette collection is likely the oldest on our list. But those six decades of innovation have helped make this one of the best and most versatile bags out there—not to mention one with excellent style. You can also feel good about your purchase knowing that it features 100 percent post-consumer recycled PET bottles.

Our testers liked the size of the bag and the opening, similar to a suitcase, which made it easy to pack and access items. There were many—almost too many—pockets and compartments. And our testers loved how comfortable and supportive this bag was to carry, noting its excellent weight distribution. “I would recommend this bag to someone looking for a backpack they can use as a primary form of luggage,” a tester concluded. “It has enough room and compartments to fit all of the essentials and keep them organized. It's also comfortable, supportive, and easy to carry.”

Capacity: Not listed | Weight: 3.31 pounds | Dimensions: 20 x 12.5 x 7 inches | Materials: Polyester and Recyclex

Best for Techies

Thule subterra backpack 34l.

Functional and looks good

Bag included for dirty laundry

Portable charger

Not the most comfortable

We’ve been pleasantly surprised with Thule’s line of luggage. And that certainly includes the Subterra backpack. This rugged pack could also be a good commuter option as it has a magnetic rolling top closure, a padded laptop sleeve, and a PowerPocket for charging items on the go. We love that it has many access points and comes with a packing cube and garment bag for dirty clothes.

"I loved being able to put my normal packing cubes inside the big cube that comes with the bag, and I was able to use the bag as a day bag anytime I needed to carry extra, and it never felt super bulky,” a tester reported—however, they noted that the bag didn’t particularly help their already-sore back. Not surprisingly, considering its construction, the pack aced our durability tests.

Capacity: 34 liters | Weight: 2.75 pounds | Dimensions: 20.5 x 12.2 x 9.1 inches | Materials: 800-denier nylon

Best for Storage

Mystery ranch mission rover.

Mystery Ranch

Sturdy with grab handles around the pack

Well-designed internal storage

Different ways to carry

A bit heavy

If you’ve never heard of Mystery Ranch, let us introduce you to the Bozeman, Montana-based brand, which makes super rugged packs for backpacking, hunting, the military, and firefighters. This travel-focused pack is incredibly solid on the outside and has many excellent organization and design features inside.

Highlights include a stowable hip belt and shoulder straps, multiple carrying options, a dirty clothes compartment, three inner divided pockets, and lockable zippers.

Capacity: 30, 45, and 60 liters | Weight: 4.3 pounds | Dimensions: 21 x 13 x 12 inches | Materials: Plain spun nylon, 210-denier nylon

We recommend the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack thanks to its incredibly durable polyester and nylon materials, well-designed internal storage, and included rainfly. Another great pick is the Vancropak Travel Backpack , which rings up at a fraction of the cost of some other options on the market.

We selected products to test based on the expertise of TripSavvy editors and writers and on internet research. Not surprisingly, TripSavvy editors and writers travel a lot. And they have many carry-on backpacks they like and don’t like.

To ensure we weren’t missing anything, we also researched what other prominent sites have featured and looked at top-rated and reviewed backpacks on sites like Amazon and REI. Once an initial list of products was selected, we narrowed it down to the final 28 for testing based on style, function, and price.

We tested the backpacks for capacity, design, comfort, durability, and value. In our New York City-based testing lab, we asked testers to pack each backpack with three shirts, two pants, one jacket, one pair of shoes, and a toiletry bag to test for capacity. We asked the testers to consider all aspects of the backpack’s construction, organizational capabilities, and any design innovations.

Testers then carried each backpack around using the different carrying styles. We asked the testers to rate how comfortable the bag felt fully packed. After the comfort test, we asked testers to toss and throw the bag several feet multiple times. We looked for damage on the outside of the bag and any damage to products inside the bag. Lastly, we asked testers to rate the bag for overall value after a price reveal.

We have since sent the backpacks to testers to continue testing as they travel. We will update this document accordingly as their insights are submitted.

Aer Travel Pack 3 : This pack was comfortable to wear thanks to its supportively firm and cushioned back, while its rugged fabric stood up well to rough handling. Our tester subtracted some points for capacity, as it was a squeeze to get everything on the list to fit, and for the more function-forward style.

Everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack : This bag is very nice to look at and proved quite durable. However, it's on the small side and the features aren't particularly travel-oriented—namely, the inflexible bottle holder and the magnetic flip top that is easily displaced when the pack is full.

Minaal Carry-on 3.0 Bag : Our tester appreciated the comfort of the straps and the practical capacity of this bag, though the price was on the higher end and the packing experience was a bit of a learning curve.

Monos Metro Backpack : Another looker, the design of this bag got high praise. We liked the 270-degree opening, the easy-release front pouch, and the comfortable straps. At 18 liters, this back is more of a complement piece to other luggage and could use a better weight distribution system.

Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable : The expansion feature was a hit once we figured out how to use it and the durability of this pack was undeniable. It was difficult to look past a faulty zipper design that got caught frequently when trying to close.

What to Look For in a Carry-on Backpack

Prices for carry-on backpacks vary widely, so consider what your greatest needs are. You can find a spacious travel backpack for under $100—often under $50—but if you plan on facing harsh outdoor environments , consider investing a bit more money for something waterproof. Leather backpacks can cost hundreds of dollars; keep this in mind if that material is important to you. Anti-theft travel backpacks can be a bit more expensive but are often essential in highly trafficked destinations.

There are so many styles out there you could spend days filtering through the different backpacks on the market. Keep it simple: How will you be using this backpack? If you’re interfacing with clients or business partners, look for something minimal and sleek that doesn’t showcase a million pockets. If you plan on living out of your backpack for most of your trip, pockets are more of a priority. You'll want a bag that zips open flat like a suitcase for easy packing and unloading (this also makes going through security easier).

If you are using your travel backpack for hiking, find something with a removable hip harness to distribute the weight of your pack better when you’re on the move. If you plan on wearing your travel backpack casually—only in the airport or to work—seek out a style with adjustable straps and a padded back. This will help ward off any back pain, especially if you carry a lot of weight. When you’re trying on backpacks, test out the shoulder straps and imagine how they would feel if the pack was filled to capacity. Is there ample padding? Will the material cut into your shoulders? Does the back of the backpack feel like it would be breathable?

The size of backpacks is generally measured in volume (liters) or dimensions (inches or centimeters). While it is essential to refer to the specific requirements of the airline you'll be flying, a good starting point for a carry-on when flying domestically is 22 x 14 x 9 inches or 45 total linear inches (115 centimeters) including all handles and wheels. This size comes out to a 43-liter pack, so anything smaller should easily meet any U.S. airline size restrictions. However, this is only the beginning, and several factors may increase or decrease your allowance, such as the size of the plane and flight class you book.

This will vary based on your backpack's materials. For nylon and other water-resistant fabrics, get a damp cloth and spot-clean your pack. A damp cloth will also do the trick if your bag has plastic or metal elements. For leather backpacks, you’ll want to purchase a special leather conditioner and cleaner to maintain the integrity of your backpack.

This is an excellent feature if you plan on hiking or spending long periods carrying your backpack. It will help distribute the weight of your pack better across your body, ultimately providing more comfort. Most backpacks that are focused on outdoor adventures will have this feature.

Many backpacks are marketed as anti-theft, meaning it’s tougher for someone else to get inside your pack. Some backpacks have zippers that allow you to open the main interior compartment while wearing it—so you don’t have to take it off and risk having someone else pick it up. Others are designed with webbing over the zipper openings, making it very hard for someone to locate and unzip the bag while you have it on.

No, this is not the norm when it comes to backpacks. Compression cords make packing easier and function the same way a compression strap or cord would work in a regular suitcase. Some travel-focused carry-on backpacks do have this built-in. But if you want to squeeze in more items, consider investing in some packing cubes . These will help organize your backpack, too.

Nathan Allen is TripSavvy’s Outdoor Gear Editor. He has traveled to five continents, including plane, train, and bus travel. For most travel scenarios, he prefers backpacks over spinners or roller suitcases because of their ruggedness and different carrying methods. He currently uses Cotopaxi’s Allpa 35L, Thule’s Subterra, and Topo Design’s Global Travel Pack the most. Each product recommended in this review was thoroughly researched and tested.

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Backpacking Russia (Ultimate Budget Travel Guide for 2024)

In this article, we are going to go through everything you need to know about backpacking Russia.

Russia is the largest country in the world, with a land area equivalent to 11% of the earth’s total landmass. Pretty impressive, right?

With stunning tundra landscapes, huge cities, stunning beaches and an array of wildlife, it’s truly an amazing place to visit.

Some of the most popular sights include the capital city of Moscow, St. Petersburg, Lake Baikal, Sochi, Kazan and the Ural Mountains.

Although often not depicted as a travel destination, Russia has so much to offer. It’s also a great place for backpackers as accommodation, food and transport is generally very cheap.

Russia is also the first country I ever backpacked, all the way back in 2007! I also returned three years later and backpacked my way from London to Lake Baikal in Siberia.

So let’s dive right into the article, and find out all the things you need to know before backpacking Russia.

Boring stuff: I have visited each of the places I recommend and give you my honest opinion, warts and all. All photos are my own unless otherwise stated and may not be reproduced without permission. Affiliate links may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

What regions make up Russia?

The Russian Federation is made up of eight districts. These are:

• Central – District Capital: Moscow
• North-Western – District Capital: St. Petersburg
• Volga – District Capital: Nizhny Novgorod
• North Caucasus – District Capital: Pyatigorsk
• Southern – District Capital: Rostov-on-Don
• Ural – District Capital: Yekaterinburg
• Siberian – District Capital: Novosibirsk
• Far-Eastern – District Capital: Vladivostok

Russia Highlights

Kaliningrad – a tiny Russian enclave on the Baltic Sea

Moscow – Red Square, St Basil’s Cathedral, the Kremlin, Lenin Mausoleum, Bolshoi Theatre…

St. Petersburg – the Hermitage , Church on the Spilt Blood, the Winter Palace…

Yekaterinburg – final resting place of the Romanovs and gateway to the Ural Mountains

Mount Elbrus – Europe’s highest mountain!

Lake Baikal – the world’s largest and deepest body of fresh water.

Vladivostok – the end of the line, Russia’s port city on the Pacific Ocean.

Kamchatka – the land of fire and ice, volcanoes and more bears than people.

The Trans-Siberian Railway – everyone should take this journey at least once in their life!

Suggested Russia Itineraries

1 week – Moscow and St. Petersburg

2 weeks – St. Petersburg – Moscow – Yekaterinburg

3 weeks – St. Petersburg – Moscow – Yekaterinburg – Rostov-on-Don

4 weeks – St. Petersburg – Moscow – Novosibirsk – Irkutsk – Lake Baikal (Trans-Siberian routes)

5 weeks – Moscow – Yekaterinburg – Novosibirsk – Baikal – Vladivostok (return by Trans-Siberian)

6 weeks – Moscow – Novosibirsk – Baikal – Yakutsk – Kamchatka

Daily budget for backpacking Russia

Depending on where you visit in Russia, the cost of accommodation, food and transport will vary. For example, the touristy areas of Moscow may be more expensive than the more rural areas of Russia.

On average you are looking at a daily budget of around ₽4,800 ($63). This will cover basic accommodation costs, food, and transport whilst backpacking Russia.

To help you stick to your budget, we have plenty of money-saving tips later on in the article!

Russia Visas

Citizens of 55 countries including Azerbaijan, Bolivia, Costa Rica, Israel, Laos, and the U.A.E can enter Russia visa-free for between 30-90 days depending on the agreement with that country.

If you are a citizen of Japan, the USA, the EU, the UK or a country in Asia or Africa you will have to apply for a visa. For some countries you can apply for a visa online, otherwise, you will have to go to your nearest Russian embassy or consulate.

Language in Russia

The Russian language uses the Cyrillic alphabet and it would pay to try and familiarise yourself with this a little before you go. All signage is in Cyrillic and English isn’t widely spoken, even in Moscow.

Getting to Russia

If you are travelling to Russia by flight, it’s likely you will arrive in Moscow as it has 3 large international airports; Sheremyetevo, Domodedovo and Vnukovo.

You may also choose to fly into Pulkovo airport, which is near St. Petersburg.

Trip.com has some of the best deals on flights to Russia.

Travelling into Russia by train is easy as the country has multiple high-speed rail connections with Europe.

Train routes run to Russia from Finland, Poland, France and Estonia. It’s also possible to go on other routes but it’s important to do your research as some require a transit visa.

Weekly routes to Moscow from the following countries. Check RealRussia for timetables and ticket prices.

Belarus: Minsk to Moscow – 8 hours

Estonia: Tallinn to St. Petersburg – 8 hours

Estonia: Tallinn to Moscow – 17 hours

Ukraine: Kiev to Moscow – 12 hours

Kazakhstan: Nur-Sultan (Astana) to Moscow – 40 hours

Mongolia: Ulaanbaatar to Moscow – 98 hours

China: Beijing to Moscow – 140 hours

You can travel to Russia by bus from Belarus, Estonia, Latvia, Finland, Poland, Germany and London. Although often not the most popular choice, it’s very cheap.

Ferries run to Russia from Japan, Korea, Turkey, Georgia and Ukraine.

It is possible to visit St. Petersburg visa-free by taking a cruise from Helsinki, Tallinn or Stockholm with St Peter Line. See their website for full details.

Getting around Russia

Russia is a HUGE country, but luckily there are a variety of transport options to help you get around.

Plane – There are over 200 airports within Russia, so when it comes to domestic flights there are plenty of choices.

Train – Travelling by train through Russia is one of the best options, as it’s a lot cheaper than catching a flight and is often more convenient.

Be aware that some stations have retained their Soviet names on timetables which can be a little confusing ( Yekaterinburg is shown as Sverdlovsk for example).

Metro – The metro system is located in 7 of Russia’s cities; these are Moscow, St. Petersburg, Kazan, Nizhny Novgorod, Novosibirsk, Samara and Yekaterinburg. It’s the best way to explore these cities.

City bus systems – The public transport systems in Russian cities are usually made up of buses, trolleybuses and trams. Travelling this way is cheap, and very convenient.

Long-distance bus services – There are plenty of long-distance bus services around and they are a great option whilst backpacking Russia.

The Trans Siberian Railway

There are three main routes:

• Trans-Siberian – Moscow to Vladivostok
• Trans-Mongolian – Moscow to Ulaanbaatar
• Trans-Manchurian – Moscow to Beijing

Unfortunately, at present there is no “hop-on, hop-off” service, so if you wish to visit places along the route, you must buy individual tickets for each leg of the journey.

Where to stay – Cheap accommodation in Russia’s most popular tourist spots

It’s inevitable that accommodation prices will vary depending on where you travel throughout Russia.

To give you an idea, I’ve come up with a list of the most popular spots in Russia and a cheap accommodation option for each one:

Moscow – Napoleon Hostel

St. Petersburg – The Roomers

Lake Baikal – Mini Gostinica near Lake Baikal

Belokurikha – Hotel Berkut

Sochi – Sochi Hotel

Kazan – Mironov’s House

Money in Russia

The currency in Russia is the Russian rubles (or rouble – RUB).

The exchange rate fluctuates but at the start of 2022, the average exchange rate is $1 = 75 RUB.

The important thing to remember about money in Russia is that It’s always best to exchange it in advance.

Cards are generally accepted in the country, but you’ll never know what the exchange rate is or if Russian banks will accept the card.

Also, a lot of things are paid for in cash in Russia including public transport and tipping so it’s always best to have cash on you.

Sample costs of items across the country*

The best places to visit in russia.

Here are the top places to visit whilst backpacking Russia. They have been split by district to make things easier for you!

The North-Western district

• St. Petersburg
• Veliky Ustug
• The Republic of Karelia
• The Pskov Region

Visitors to Russia should allow at least a couple of days to discover charming Saint Petersburg . Highlights include the Hermitage, Winter Palace, Church on the Spilt Blood and the canals.

St Petersburg really is a highlight of Russia, so if you’re planning a trip be sure to include it in your itinerary. Check out this excellent guide to the beautiful Russian Palaces in the city (the Winter Palace was a highlight of my trip back in 2007).

The Central district

• Sergiev Posad

No trip to Russia is complete without exploring the country’s impressive capital, Moscow . Allow at least three days to see the major sights including Red Square, the Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral, the Lenin Mausoleum and more.

The Volga district

• Nizhny Novgorod
• The Republic of Tatarstan
• The Raifsky Bogoroditsky Monastery

The Volga region is one of the true heartlands of Russia and encompasses the Volga River basin and stretches down to the Caspian Sea.

The Southern district

• Rostov-on-Don
• Novocherkassk

From Black Sea beaches to Europe’s tallest mountain, Elbrus, the Southern District is packed full of exciting places to visit. Pyatigorsk is famous for its mineral springs and spas and Sochi was home to the 2014 Winter Olympics.

The Ural district

• Yekaterinburg
• The Ural Mountains
• Taganay National Park
• Kungur Ice Cave
• Romanov Death Site

The Ural Mountains divide European Russia from Asia. The city of Yekaterinburg is a pleasant city with a dark past, as it was here that the Romanov family met their terrible fate in 1918. It’s not all gloom and doom though, and the city is filled with parks, lakes and impressive architecture.

The Siberian district

• Novosibirsk
• Stolby Reserve
• The Omsk Region
• Lake Baikal
• Belokurikha

Siberia is a vast expanse of forest (taiga) that covers an area the size of the United States. The region’s crown jule is Lake Baikal, the deepest and largest body of fresh water in the world. In summer, the area is perfect for hiking, camping, picking berries and enjoying the great outdoors. In winter, the frozen lake becomes a winter playground!

The Far-Eastern district

• The Kheketsir Mountains
• Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky
• Land of the Leopard National Park

Russia is a wild country, but the Russian far east takes this to new extremes. From the “pole of cold” at Oymyakon in Yakutia can reach temperatures of -70 degrees Celcius! Conversely, the Kamchatka peninsula is the land of fire and ice. The volcanic peninsula is so otherworldly that the Soviets used it as a testing ground for their spacecraft!

Food and drink in Russia

When it comes to food in Russia, there is a variety of cuisine available. In the larger cities of Moscow and St. Petersburg, there is more choice of cafes and restaurants. Japanese is a popular cuisine in these big cities, and western food is readily available.

However, as you head to the more rural areas of Russia, you will find there are fewer options and it’s harder to find menus in English.

There are plenty of tasty national dishes in Russia including pelmeni, borshch , pirogi and tvorog .

Vodka is the national drink of Russia and is usually knocked back in one gulp and then chased with a salted cucumber or a bite of black bread . However, vodka in Russia is not for the faint-hearted with such a high alcohol concentration, so be wary if you aren’t a big drinker!

Best time to visit Russia

The best time to visit Russia largely depends on what district you visit, and the purpose of your trip.

However, generally, the most popular time to visit the country is between June-August which is Russia’s summertime.

Although the weather is warm, the popular cities of Moscow and St. Petersburg get incredibly crowded during this time of year.

If you don’t mind the weather being a bit cooler, you can choose to visit Russia in May or September. The crowds will be a lot thinner, and accommodation prices will often be cheaper.

Many people like to visit in the wintertime to see a snowy Russia. It’s important to note that October and November are the wettest months of the year, so December would be a better choice if you don’t mind sub-zero temperatures!

16 money-saving travel tips for backpacking Russia

• Stay in a hostel dorm or a cheap economy room (There are plenty out there).
• Exchange currency beforehand rather than pay by card.
• You can often volunteer in exchange for food and accommodation by using sites like the Help Exchange.
• Getting a tourist pass in Moscow and St. Petersburg will save you money when it comes to entering attractions.
• Some popular attractions have ‘free admission days’.
• Use overnight trains to save a night’s accommodation. Book the tickets about a month in advance for an even cheaper deal.
• Always use the metro in big cities if possible!
• A troika travel card in Moscow costs around ₽50 ($0.66) and can be topped up at any time. With this card, any public transport journey in Moscow will cost ₽42 ($0.56).
• Gastro food courts are perfect if you want cheap restaurant-quality food.
• Stick to delicious Russian dishes as western food is a lot more expensive.
• Research transport options before heading to another destination, as long-distance buses are often even cheaper than the train.
• The government sometimes organise free entertainment such as concerts or screenings of matches.
• Eat at a street vendor or small local cafe to cut your costs.
• Stock up on supplies at the local supermarkets.
• Buy a cheap travel Sim Card to save on network charges.
• Don’t use taxis as they are expensive.

Is Russia Safe to Visit?

Although Russia has a very sketchy reputation, today generally speaking it’s as safe as many other countries in Europe.

Police and security cameras are located throughout popular cities, and the city of Moscow even has its own tourist police force.

However, no country is ever 100% safe and there are things to be cautious of whilst backpacking Russia.

Pickpocketing is incredibly common, especially in popular tourist spots like St. Petersburg and Moscow.

It’s also important to note that if you’re a member of the LGBT community, you should refrain from public displays of affection.

In Russia discussion of homosexuality issues or gay rights in the presence of minors is punishable by law, so there is a need to be careful.

Tourists are also strongly advised against travelling to the North Caucasus, as it’s considered to be the most dangerous region in Russia. With terrorist activities, higher crime rates and corruption, this is an area of Russia to avoid.

With the above in mind, it pays to have good cover while backpacking through Russia. Our partners at World Nomads are experts at providing cover for backpackers. You can get a free, no-obligation quote here .

On my second visit to Russia, I experienced police corruption first-hand. I was with friends drinking a beer in a public park and the police came and said that it was illegal and we must go with them (we had seen many other people doing the same, so it seemed suspicious from the outset).

It soon became clear that the police were after a bribe, and we each paid 2,000 ($25) to avoid being taken to jail. We were made to get in the police car and pass the money under the seat so no one could see what was going on.

I will add that this was over 10 years ago so perhaps things have improved, but be wary of the police and avoid interactions with them where possible.

Recommended vaccines for Backpacking in Russia

If you will just be visiting the cities and urban areas in Russia vaccines aren’t too important. If you will be spending time in the Russian wilderness, then it is advisable to have the following vaccines (all of which I had before camping in Siberia):

• Hepatitis (A, B and C combined)
• Tick-borne encephalitis

Russian wildlife

Russia is home to a wide variety of wildlife, and what you could encounter will differ depending on the area you visit.

Generally, a lot of the time animals are more afraid of us, than we are of them but it’s still important to know what dangerous species are around.

Bears – Bears will only attack people in self-defence or if they feel threatened (e.g wounded bears, mothers with cubs or bears who have just come out of hibernation).

Boars – Boars use their tusks as weapons, and will often attack anything that they deem a threat due to poor eyesight.

Dogs – Stray dogs are found all across Russia and can attack if they are defending their territory.

Elk – Elks are incredibly fearful animals, and will attack if they think someone poses a threat. Due to its size, an Elks kick can be fatal.

Snakes – There are a variety of venomous snakes located within Russia and these include the Common European adder, the blunt-nosed viper, the European cat snake and the Japanese striped snake. However, it’s the Northern viper that’s the most deadly.

Spiders – The Karakurt spider is one of the most dangerous spiders in the world, and if bitten you should seek medical attention immediately.

Ticks – Ticks in Russia can carry encephalitis and Lyme disease, which, unfortunately, can lead to swelling of the brain, seizures and the inability to move. If you will be spending any time in the taiga, it is recommended to get the tick-borne encephalitis vaccine.

Wolves – Wolf attacks on people are rare, but it’s often down to two reasons. Either their habitat has disappeared meaning they are moving into neighbourhoods, or their food source is running low during early spring.

Books about Travel in Russia

I have also written my own book about backpacking across Russia from Moscow to Irkutsk. You can buy it on Kindle here .

Russia is an incredible country, with a wide variety of landscapes and architecture. Although it’s often overlooked as a travel destination, it should be on the bucket list of every traveller.

With a range of transport options, cheap accommodation and a variety of different cuisine it’s the perfect destination if you’re a budget traveller.

Backpacking Russia is the best way to see the country, and trust me you won’t be disappointed!

If you have any questions about travelling on a budget in Russia, feel free to leave a comment below or get in touch via the contact form!

Check out my other backpacking guides

Backpacking China

Backpacking Hong Kong

Backpacking Kazakhstan

Backpacking the Silk Road

Backpacking the Baltics

Backpacking the Balkans

About the author: Steve Rohan is a writer from Essex, England. He has traveled to over 60 countries, lived in Armenia, China and Hong Kong, and is now living the digital nomad life on the road.

Steve prefers “slow travel” and has covered much of the world by train, bus and boat. He has been interviewed multiple times by the BBC and recently featured in the documentary Scariest Places in the World . See the About page for more info.

Where I am now: Yerevan, Armenia 🇦🇲

2 thoughts on “ Backpacking Russia (Ultimate Budget Travel Guide for 2024) ”

And now? how would it be to travel in Russia? The place is vast. Should be much the same as before Putin’s ridiculous invasion. Always wanted to take the trans-sib. Don’t want to wait ten more years (been waiting 30 as it is!). Another idea i had was to do one of the silk routes then tag on the trans mongolian train to at least get that part of the journey to Asia if I cannot travel on the Trans-sib part.

Aside from more stringent checks at customs (especially if you have evidence of visits to Ukraine), travelling across the vast expance of Russia will indeed be much the save as it ever was (an adventure, and not always easy). I would highly recommend doing the trans-sib if you have the chance. I’d also recommend taking one of the slower, local trains rather than the tourist services like the Rossiya if you want an authenitc experience (and a cheaper ticket). The Silk Road is also an incredible experience, but there isn’t just one train and a lot of changes (plus parts will need to be done by bus). Best wishes, Steve

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