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The Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

There are a lot of great travel backpacks out there, but not all of them are created equal. A travel pack needs to be comfortable to carry, easy to organize, and durable enough to withstand being toted from place to place.

From hitting the road for the weekend to spending months traveling abroad, we’ve put nearly 30 different travel backpacks through the wringer. We tallied our airline miles, punched our tickets, and put our tray tables in the upright and locked position for close to half a decade now, taking domestic and international flights to as far as Iceland and as close as 30-minute island hops. And while there isn’t a single pack that suits every traveler, we’ve highlighted a variety of designs and price points to help you find the perfect travel backpack.

Choosing a travel backpack can be a dizzying experience, and we’ve shaken down the best to sort through the static. Each pack has seen its time on the baggage carousel, hostel luggage cart, and we’ve even had a few go missing for the full experience. We fully pack and live out of these bags to test them, and in the end, we’re confident that the 15 packs collected here are the best travel backpacks available today. Check in and check them out.

For all your travel pack questions, consult our buyer’s guide , where we’ve laid bare all the essentials. Compare each of the packs using our handy comparison chart , and if you’ve still got questions, check out our FAQ section.

Editor’s Note: We updated our travel backpack guide on May 21, 2024, adding the JanSport Journey Pack as our new best budget travel pack, as well as the feature-rich and burly Able Carry Max Backpack .

• Best Overall Travel Backpack: Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L
• Best Budget Travel Backpack: JanSport Journey Pack
• Best Carrying Travel Backpack: Osprey Farpoint & Fairview 40 Travel Packs
• Best Organization in a Travel Backpack: Matador SEG45 Travel Pack
• Best Shoulder Bag: Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L
• Best Commuter-Style Travel Backpack: Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L
• Best Personal Item Travel Pack: TimBuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

• Capacity 45 L (collapses to 35 L)
• Weight 4 lbs., 8 oz.
• Dimensions 22" x 13" x 9.5" standard, 22" x 13" x 11" expanded
• Compartment access Back panel clamshell design with #10 zipper
• Material Weatherproof, 100% recycled 400-denier nylon canvas shell; 900-denier waterproof bottom

• Compresses down to maximum airline carry-on size, and then expands once you’ve hit your destination
• Burly construction
• No details are overlooked in the design
• Side-carry handles are offset in an awkward position

Perfect is a dirty word in product design, but we’re about stumped when it comes to drumming up a quibble about the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45 L ($300). This redeye-ready clamshell design is made to the highest of standards.

It’s made of quality materials, utilizing aluminum hardware and a burly 400-denier nylon canvas — and it easily ticks all our boxes for the best overall travel backpack. The interior of the bag is split into two compartments: a larger main area for storing the majority of your kit and a secondary sleeve at the front of the bag with five zippered pockets. The main pocket also sports a foam-padded laptop sleeve and three more pockets.

One of the more impressive aspects we discovered along the bag’s inaugural leg from Seattle to Anchorage was how easily the straps of the Travel Backpack stow away into the bag. Two foam panels on the back of the bag flip away to secure them and then close with a magnetic closure — very slick. This was our favorite strap-stowage system, with the zippered panels of the Matador GlobeRider45 coming in a close second. We find the Peak Design bag compresses smaller.

Then there are the little details. An ID-size sleeve on the back panel provides all the information should your bag get separated from you. Zipper pulls thread through one another to keep what’s yours safe. And a collapsible system adjusts the bag from a full 45 L to 35 L.

In our review, there’s little about the Peak Design pack that misses the mark. The company leans heavily toward the camera-toting travelers among us, but the 45 L Travel Backpack makes no compromises and works just as well for any user group. The high price is undeniable, but for the scope of the travel pack, it’s a buy-once-cry-once purchase we would make again.

Also available in a 30L size , the range of Travel Backpacks from Peak Design is so well-thought-out that you can practically see the cogs turning in their creators’ heads. We think they make the best travel backpacks on the market.

JanSport Journey Pack

• Capacity 28 liters
• Weight 1 lb., 13.6 oz.
• Dimensions 19.5" x 12.5" x 7"
• Compartment access Zippered top access
• Material 100% 600D recycled polyester + 1680D ballistic boot
• Electronic storage 15" laptop sleeve

• Compact and clean profile
• Plush foam back panel and shoulder straps
• Compression straps on bottom of pack tote around a jacket
• Smooth-running zippers
• Good internal organization
• Laptop sleeve won't fit some large modern laptops
• Water bottle pockets sized for slimmer vessels

At $95, the JanSport Journey Pack does a lot for a little. As a campus commuter, airline personal item, or do-it-all backpack, this pack leverages its lack of specificity to make it amenable to being used on just about any day. Part of a trio of new travel packs from the legendary campus bookbag brand, the Journey surprised us with a more high-end build than expected, and for the money, it made an excellent travel companion.

While the Journey isn’t trimmed out in some of the more boutique fabrics, it is still solidly built and uses the good stuff where it counts, such as the 1680D ballistic boot material that’s reinforced with recycled car windshield liners (news to us). The 600D polyester used elsewhere has a rugged nailhead finish, and shoulders wear well.

The thick EVA foam used in the shoulder straps and back panel is cushy and applied liberally. On the inside, the laptop sleeve is lined with plush tricot material, along with an organizer pocket for stashing your readers or sunnies.

The organization of the pack is similarly uncompromising and is broken down into a spacious main compartment, front stash pocket, small bits and bobs organizer pocket, and a 15″ laptop sleeve — which easily toted our tester’s MacBook Pro safely.

When packed as a carry-on, we were able to stuff in an assortment of layers we might need along the way (rain jacket, warm puffy, hat), along with our headphones, book, travel pillow , and lunch for the flight, and still had space for an empty water bottle or two.

As a 28-liter pack, there’s no alternate sizing available and no hip belt to go along — though, in our opinion, loads this light doesn’t need one. Compression straps are limited, though you do get a set at the bottom of the pack that doubles as a dock for your beach towel, picnic blanket, or rolled-up jacket.

Like the TimBuk2 Never Check , the side water bottle pockets on this pack are really only ideal for thin bottles or flasks, and while we could shoehorn a Nalgene in there, it didn’t look happy.

Compromises aside, for less than $100, the JanSport Journey Pack doesn’t take the easy way out and phone it in with fewer materials or a more simple organizational layout. We had a pocket or sleeve for anything we needed to stash (besides a dedicated passport pocket), and the Journey made for an easy personal item on the handful of flights we took it on — easily stashing beneath the seat. If you’d rather ball out on your big-ticket luggage and just need a travel backpack that’ll plain work, this is the bag for you.

Osprey Farpoint & Fairview 40 Travel Packs

• Capacity 40 L
• Weight 3 lbs., 7.6 oz.
• Dimensions 22" x 14" x 9"
• Compartment access Zippered back panel clamshell design
• Material Bluesign-approved 450-denier recycled polyester

• Supreme suspension system offers the best carry of any pack we tried
• External compression straps limit the volume well
• Comfortably padded grab handles
• Not much internal organization

No stranger to producing supremely comfortable suspension systems, Osprey injected a good bit of its tech into the Farpoint and Fairview packs ($185), which both sport LightWire frames, load lifters, and breathable framesheet and suspension straps. Our Farpoint pack was easily the best load carrier of any we tested and a close contender for the best travel backpack overall.

Far beyond what any of the other travel packs offer, the pack even allows you to adjust the torso length — unheard of in the typical travel pack. Newly updated, these packs have been tweaked to ride the line between traditional backpacks and functional luggage, a claim we can substantiate.

The 40-liter capacity is just about the sweet spot for domestic carry-on luggage limits, and these packs make good use of the space. We could easily pack away a long weekend’s worth of travel essentials into the bag with a little space to spare.

Whereas many other travel packs stash straps away into the body of the pack, the Farpoint and Fairview move in the opposite direction with a deployable strap cover that neatly seals in the suspension for safekeeping when checked. This produces a clean profile that’s ready to be slung around, but it’s not quite as easy and quick as the magnetic panels of the Peak Design Travel Backpacks, as you need to unclip straps to tuck them away.

The interior of the pack is rather spartan, incorporating only one zippered pocket, a laptop sleeve, and two internal compression straps. We would have rather seen a bit more organizational features involved like those that the Matador GlobeRider and Topo Designs Global Travel bags incorporate, but for those who stuff more than pack, the Farpoint and  Fairview may very well punch the ticket.

With one foot on the platform and one on the trail, these packs from Osprey will get you where you’re going and carry a trip’s worth of kit with ease.

Matador SEG45 Travel Pack

• Capacity 45 L
• Weight 2 lbs., 8 oz.
• Dimensions 22" x 13.4" x 10.2"
• Compartment access Full clamshell interior, additional front zippered access
• Material 420-denier nylon exterior, 100-denier Robic Dynatec interior

• Excellent storage organization options
• High-quality, strong, and lightweight construction
• No frame to speak of
• Shoulder straps don’t pack away

Aiming to do more with less, the Matador SEG45 Segmented Backpack ($200) proposes a future free of packing cubes and splits up the bag for you, making the organization of your travel pack a breeze.

The full 45 liters of volume is shared among the five segments (6, 9, 15, 9, and 6 L) and trades volume between the full clamshell compartment and the segments. Each of these segments is accessible via its own water-resistant zippers and can be collapsed as your needs change.

We found organizing by clothing type made the most sense in our own packing, but you could even pack based on the day of the week or the use. The clamshell-accessed main compartment was ideal for holding larger items like spare shoes or quarantining spent outfits.

Known for its overbuilt but lightweight bags, Matador didn’t spare the SEG45, utilizing 420D UHMWPE-reinforced nylon in the pack body, as well as 100D Robic Dynatec weave on the interior. It should be noted that this travel backpack doesn’t have any kind of frame and will rely on being packed well to carry correctly. Because of this, this pack won’t carry as well as bags like the Osprey Farpoint/Fairview, so consider packing mostly clothing in the SEG45.

Our testers felt this bag excelled as a travel bag you might deploy once you’ve hit your destination, as it packs away into larger bags so well. Unfortunately, however, the shoulder straps don’t pack away into the bag itself, so you’ll have to wrangle them into place to keep things tidy.

No matter what you’re up to, everything has got a spot to live in the SEG45 . Need a bit less space? Matador offers the SEG28 ($250) for that.

Read Review: Dresser in a Backpack: Matador SEG42 Review

Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L

• Weight 3 lbs., 10.3 oz.
• Dimensions 22.8" x 8.6" x 14.5"
• Compartment access Back panel zippered clamshell design
• Material 900-denier recycled polyester ripstop with a TPU laminate

• Multiple ways to carry the pack
• Many different storage and internal organization options
• Burly external fabric
• Doesn’t carry the best as a backpack

Looking to squeeze out every last liter of allowed space? Patagonia named this pack in honor of the cause: the Patagonia Black Hole Maximum Legal Carry-On 45 L ($239). This bag can be carried in a number of different ways, but we found it shined during travel as a shoulder bag.

Borrowing fabric from Patagonia’s line of burly Black Hole Duffels , the MLC 45 is made for the long haul. The 900-denier polyester ripstop is coated in a TPU laminate and feels ready to take on the surliest baggage carrier. We certainly felt no remorse in tossing the bag around.

At 45 L, the MLC is certainly right at the cusp of the maximum allowed size, but thankfully that space is well divided up inside the pack. Inside the main clamshell-accessed compartment is a blizzard of zippers and mesh pockets and dividers. Anything we tossed inside was well-stabilized.

Because there isn’t much of a frame to speak of, the Black Hole MLC doesn’t carry the best when slung over both shoulders and can sag when not entirely full. But over a shoulder with the included shoulder strap, this pack feels great and can be easily accessed on the go. This is one of the only packs in our testing to feature a shoulder strap (the other being the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag).

On top of all this, we greatly appreciate that the Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45 L is made with 100% recycled body fabric, lining, and webbing. Perfect for grabbing and going, this pack is ready to move.

Read Review: Patagonia Black Hole MLC Bag Review: An Organized, Carry-On-Size Wonder

Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L

• Capacity 24 L
• Weight 3 lbs., 1.6 oz.
• Dimensions 18" x 7: x 11.5"
• Compartment access Zippered clamshell
• Material 840D ballistic nylon 6, 420D HT nylon

• Functions as both a laptop backpack and suitcase
• Well-structured and protected
• Full panel loading access
• Limited colorways

With an understated look that betrays the truly impressive fit and functionality inside, the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L ($279) doesn’t need to brag — it knows it’ll tote your kit through the worst of your travel or everyday commutes without missing a beat. This bag is our newly anointed best commuter-style travel backpack.

From a fabrics and materials standpoint, it’s clear that someone at Evergoods truly nerded out when they brewed up this bindle. The 840D ballistic nylon 6 that makes up the exterior of the pack is burly (errantly spilled coffee wipes right off), and complements the thick #10 zippers and spacer-mesh back panel. Even the Evergoods logo is low-key: a simple 2×2” patch on the front of the bag with a slash. That’s it — and we dig it.

Bar none, the Civic Panel Loader has the best laptop sleeve we’ve ever encountered in a backpack, and that’s saying something. The side-accessed zippered aperture can hold a 17” Macbook Pro, and nestles into a fully padded space at the rear of the pack.

This sleeve is suspended from the bottom of the bag, as we’ve seen in many forward-thinking bags, but goes a step further and protects the laptop from the side with an aluminum stay — the primary functionality of which is to support the side handle on the bag. Genius.

The high-polish finish on the CPL24 feels reminiscent of the attention to detail we loved about the Tom Bihn Synapse 25, but we ended up enjoying this pack even more for a simple reason: side carry. The broad handle on the side of the pack is reinforced by that aluminum stay, and it creates a perfectly supported carry for jostling through crowded terminals.

On the interior of the pack, two large pockets are subdivided with a few smaller sleeves and pockets, which are oriented to be accessed with the bag on its side. We carried this pack for a month straight of remote work, lugging it to coffee shops and co-working spaces, and it supplanted all other packs we’ve used previously.

“It’s hard not to love a pack that makes your life easier,” says Senior Editor Nick Belcaster. “This pack does that. Laptop, headphones, notebooks — a whole lot goes into the pack without a care.”

Up there with Nomatic, GORUCK, and Tom Bihn, Evergoods is certainly among the pack-makers that put intelligent design and smart material choice above all else. The Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L is the final word when it comes to a travel pack you can carry every day. We certainly do.

Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack

• Capacity 27.5 L
• Weight 2 lbs., 9 oz.
• Dimensions 18.9" x 11.4" x 5.9"
• Material 420x2000D Cordura nylon, 135D polyester

• Dang good looking
• High-quality trim and details, including anodized G hooks and supple webbing
• Supper cushioned back panel
• Exterior expandable water bottle pocket is a bit slim
• Pack straps don't stow away.

Pulling off a good expandable backpack can be a tough task, with fabric accordion folds often taking up valuable real estate on the interior when collapsed in lesser bags. Not so with the TimBuk2 Never Check ($209), which takes a simple backpack shape and elevates it with premium materials and design to create one of our favorite travel backpacks for tucking under an airliner seat.

Unlike a lot of the pure-function rectangular bags in our lineup, the Never Check is a real looker — easily one of the best styled in our testing so far, and we’d have no qualms about bringing it along as a business bag. Small details like rubber-covered zipper pulls, anodized G hooks, and supple webbing keep it looking sharp. The 27.5-liter size is just about dead-on for most airline ‘personal item’ size requirements, and this bag easily slides under a seat.

The main compartment is accessed through a clamshell zipper on the front of the bag, which is gusseted to hang open while you’re loading it up. During the few national and international flights our Senior Editor Nick Belcaster deployed the bag on, this was easily enough space for everything you might want during a plane ride. And for everything else, a front pocket is lined with multiple drop and zip pockets for organizing small gadgets like chargers or keys.

The back panel of the Never Check is a plush ½-inch of comfortable foam, and combined with the equally padded shoulder straps made for a very nice carrying bag. The straps unfortunately do not stow away, but on a lower volume pack such as this, it’s a much less useable feature in our opinions. 

And finally, one of our favorite features: the wide laptop sleeve. This 15” opening is generous enough to accommodate the larger laptops of today, and is suspended from the bottom of the backpack to ensure bumps don’t turn into bruises.

Just like the name suggests, the Never Check Expandable Backpack provides a svelte solution to bringing a bag with you during airline travel — or even just to the office. Its clean profile and attention to detail impressed us, and it would make an excellent work-to-weekend bag.

Able Carry Max Backpack

• Capacity 30 L
• Weight 3 lbs., 14.4 oz.
• Dimensions 20.4" x 12.6" x 7.9"
• Compartment access Zippered clamshell design
• Material X-Pac and 1000D nylon face fabric, ripstop 420D nylon interior

• High-quality fit and finish with top-shelf materials
• Dedicated work compartment is well organized and padded
• Shoulder straps and back panel are cushy Zotefoam
• Fits 17" laptops
• No hipbelt can be nice for storing, but needed for heavy carries
• On the higher end for travel pack pricing

Sporting many of the same features and functionality as the leading travel packs in our review, the Able Carry Max Backpack ($278) leaves little on the cutting room floor, decked out with ultra-durable Cordura nylon and X-Pac materials to pull together a travel pack that you could kick, throw, or loft across the airport to no ill effect. This is one tough pack.

At 30 liters, the only thing not ‘Maxed’ out on the Max is the capacity, which lands at less than the maximum legal carry-on size for most domestic airlines, but will be ideal instead for those who are operating with a little more room in their checked baggage, freeing up the Max for the important stuff. We also find slightly smaller packs such as this fly much easier on worldwide flights, where carry-on sizes can be a bit more diminutive.

That space is wisely dispersed, organized, and split between the laptop and main compartments. The laptop sleeve won’t hold any remote worker back, as it will host up to the 17″ mondo laptops of the modern age. It is flanked by an accessories pocket lined with four stretchy pockets for swaddling your chargers, cords, memory cards, and wireless mouse.

The main compartment leaves the organization up to you and is accessed through a broad clamshell opening that gives you full access to the entire space. A couple of packing cubes won’t go to waste in this space, and while Able Carry doesn’t supply the straps themselves, a couple of daisy chain webbing loops run the length of either side of the interior, meaning you can wrangle unruly items if need be. The back panel tucks away a few more zippered pockets, and a water bottle pocket also collapses away when not needed.

On the exterior, the Max is crisscrossed by seatbelt webbing on almost every facet, which will appeal to those who are looking for a modular pack for attaching and switching kit around as it’s needed. The VX21 X-Pac material is a rough and tumble weave that might not have the slick finish of the canvas on the Peak Design Travel Backpack but is easily as weather and abrasion-proof. We also highly appreciated the 1000D Cordura nylon on the boot of the pack, which made shuffling it around a worry-free exercise.

There are a lot of high-quality travel backpacks in the 30-liter space, and while most all will get the job done, it’s the construction of the Able Carry Max Backpack that keeps drawing us back to it. The stitching on this pack is exact and plentiful and works to hold a number of high-quality materials together in a thoughtful design.

Fully loaded, we did sometimes wish for a removable hip belt to help shoulder the weight a bit, but only the most jammed-full load-outs elicited this desire. For anyone after a dialed-in travel pack, the Max lives up to the name.

Matador GlobeRider45 Travel Pack

• Dimensions 22" x 12.8" x 11"
• Material 420D UHMWPE-reinforced ripstop nylon, 100D Robic nylon mini-ripstop

• Incredible density of pockets and sleeves
• Tough UHMWPE outer fabric can be tossed around
• Shoulder straps tuck away in a novel and smart manner
• Laptop sleeve opening is a bit tight
• Price is up there

With a pocket or sleeve for pretty much everything, the new Matador GlobeRider 45 ($350) gives the Peak Design Travel Pack a run for its money when it comes to the best overall travel pack. 

Our Managing Editor raved about the GlobeRider after serious testing where she pretty much lived out of it for 3 months: “If you travel often and look for crucial components like internal and external pockets, laptop storage, and backpack and hip straps, consider the Matador GlobeRider 45. It’s a unique design in that the [pack] seems to have it all — every feature I’ve needed so far, both living out of it and in my travels — in a pretty packable size.”

What impressed us most was the way the GlobeRider was able to balance both an eye-watering amount of organization and versatility, and burly durability that ensures that this pack won’t shy away from tough travel conditions. In total (and we double-counted) there are 19 individual pockets on the pack, in all types of stretch mesh, zippered, and collapsible configurations. When good organization is key, the GlobeRider reigns. 

On the back panel of the GlobeRider, one of the more novel stowage systems we’ve seen packs away the shoulder straps and hip belt for when you want to slim down the bag. Two zippered panels — similar to the structure of the Peak Design packs, save for the closure — envelop the straps when not in use, and provide a lump-free panel for toting around. 

When it comes to downsides, the GlobeRider doesn’t miss much. The laptop sleeve aperture is a bit small at 9.5”, which in today’s age of mondo-screened computers may be limiting to some with larger devices. There also is no ability to convert the pack to a shoulder bag like the Patagonia MLC does, which can be handy when moving quickly through the airport.

Dang-near the top of the list, the Matador GlobeRider 45 would be an excellent choice for anyone who practices one-bag travel, or desires to have a place for everything in their journeys. The price does sting a bit, but based on the long-term testing we’ve completed so far, we’ve seen no indications that this pack will fade away anytime soon.

Read Review: I Lived Out of This Backpack for 3-Plus Months: Matador Globerider45 Review

Thule Aion 40L

• Weight 3 lbs., 3 oz.
• Dimensions 13" x 9.1" x 20.5"
• Material Waxed P600 polyester canvas

• Maxes out on carry-on-compliant space
• Internal roll-top TPU bag separates the clean from the to-do laundry
• Waxed canvas exterior has a classy look
• Centered side handle carries well
• Well-cushioned back panel
• No shoulder strap stowage option
• No hipbelt on a 40L is pushing it

Better known for their roof boxes and racks, it’s fair to say that Thule knows travel, and the addition of smart, organized, and comfortable travel packs like the Thule Aion 40L ($200) makes all the sense in the world to us. This pack is a finely-honed bag for international and local travel alike, and is decked out in some high-class materials.

Like the Patagonia Black Hole MLC pack, the Aion 40L aims to go for the maximum allowed capacity, and at our measurements (21.5” x 15” x 8”), the pack slides in just half an inch less than the normal 45 linear inches typically allowed. That’s efficient. The space is split up into two main compartments and a laptop sleeve, with the larger opening with a full clamshell zip.

This inner compartment hosts a few zippered pockets and internal compression straps, but the star of the show here is the integrated TPU rolltop bag. This sack can be used to cordon off your liquids (and easily presented for inspection), as well as separate your pile of ‘to-do’ laundry. This reminds us of the ActiveShield compartment in the Gregory Border Traveler pack, but we enjoy the removable aspect here even more. 

Round the back of the pack, the spacer-mesh swaddled laptop sleeve rivals the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader , and has an additional sleeve for items like tablets, notebooks, or chargers. The back panel itself is impressively cushioned (one of the more luxe in our testing) and that extends to the shoulder straps. 

Unfortunately, there’s no shoulder strap-stowage system here, so you’ll have to wrangle those yourself, and while we typically enjoy the lack of a hip belt in smaller travel packs, the absence in a 40-liter pack is a little puzzling. Fully loaded, the Aion could certainly benefit from one, and while a separate sling bag can be added to function as one, you’ll need to fork over $50 for it.

Ranking high up there with your Peak Designs and your Ospreys, the Thule Aion 40L nails the style and material departments, and with a full 40 liters of space on board, has all the room to pack for your week-long trips — no roof box required.

Osprey Archeon 30L

• Weight 3 lbs.
• Dimensions 20.5" x 13" x 11.4"
• Compartment access Zippered top-access
• Material 840D ballistic polyester with carbonate coating

• Extra-tough exterior fabric with carbonate coating
• High-polish details such as seatbelt webbing straps
• Mini-wing hipbelt tucks away easily when not needed
• Smart internal storage pockets that lay flat when not needed
• Laptop sleeve opening is a bit too snug
• Compression straps lay over the main zipper

First off, one word: Rugged. The Osprey Archeon 30L ($250) is a high-end build that spares little in the material department, and looks dang good while it’s at it. The 30-liter size makes this bag weekend travel-ready, and we greatly appreciated the fit and finish.

The overall design of the Archeon reminds us a good bit of the Peak Design Travel Bag (certainly the all-waterproof exterior zippers and curved side-entry pockets), but it’s the exterior fabric that really impressed. The 840D ballistic polyester is coated with a carbonate polyurethane coating, a bolstered recipe that increases durability by a magnitude over traditional PU coatings. In testing, we wore out before putting a dent in it.

The pack itself breaks down into two main compartments, with the main pocket opening behind a curved clamshell zip (we did have a little trouble with the zipper passing behind the exterior straps. Removing them fixed that). Inside, three expandable tech pockets tuck away all of your small kit, and do a good job of keeping things tidy on the interior.

On the exterior, Osprey doesn’t disappoint when it comes to suspension straps, which are comfortable, adjustable, and stashable. The mini wing-style hip belt earns special praise on packed flights, where we find traditional hip belts to be a hassle to store, and combined with the slick shoulder-strap stash pocket, the Archeon converts to minimal mode in under a minute.

Something the Archeon certainly could use, however, is a slightly larger aperture into the laptop/tech compartment. As-is, the zipper doesn’t quite extend down far enough to truly open up the pocket, and as such it can feel a bit like rummaging around in the dark looking for cords and chargers in the bottom of the pack. Extending these zippers down to the middle of the pack would seem to fix the issue, and we hope a later iteration might address this.

Nonetheless, we were still impressed by the Osprey Archeon 30L . There’s also a 40-liter version if you’re looking for a max-capacity carry-on, and even a smaller 24-liter for kicking around coffee shops day-to-day.

Read Review: Hack Carry-On Rules: Osprey Archeon Kit Gives Power Back to Passengers

Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 40L

• Weight 3 lbs., 10.4 oz.
• Dimensions 22.5" x 14" x 7.5"
• Material 1000D recycled nylon, 400D recycled nylon, 210D recycled nylon, 1680D recycled ballistic nylon

• Overbuilt design with tough materials and chunky zippers
• Plenty of organizational pockets
• Bright interior
• Not the cleanest strap stowage

Chunky zippers, an overhead-savvy profile, and multiple ways to sling it over your shoulder: The Topo Designs Global Travel Pack ($229) has honed in on much of what we love in a travel backpack.

During a recent trip from Seattle to Southern California, we were heavily saddled with the maximum the airline would allow. But this pack made use of every inch of space and reached the allowance of what we could check as our carry-on. The 40 liters of internal capacity is broken down into a series of dividers and pockets, which made condoning off things like electronics from the rest of our kit easy. And the interior of this pack is a cheery canary yellow, which helps with ease and visibility.

On the exterior of this pack, three separate carry styles are available to get you through the concourse in whatever way you choose. We found the full-featured backpack straps to be our go-to, which even sport load-lifters for a comfy carry. This suspension system does tuck away for when you might want to check the bag, though we found the hipbelt to be a bit tricky to fully retract.

Rounding out this travel-ready backpack is a tough build that makes use of 1000D recycled nylon and heavy-duty zippers, and we had no qualms with tossing this bag around during our trip. Perfect for anyone who subscribes to the one-bag travel ethos, the Global Travel Pack from Topo Designs makes the grade for those who want the most out of their carry-on.

And if you’re only going to be away for a short trip, the Global Travel pack is also available in a 30L capacity .

Cotopaxi Allpa 28L Travel Pack

• Capacity 28 L
• Weight 3 lbs., 4 oz.
• Dimensions 19" x 12" x 9"
• Material TPU-coated 1,000-denier polyester, 840-denier nylon paneling

• Burly exterior material holds up for the long run
• Plenty of zippered mesh storage pockets
• On the heavier side
• TPU-coated nylon can feel grabby

The Allpa 28L Travel Pack ($170) will change the way you travel. It’s sleek, durable, and able to fit an incredible amount of stuff in a small space. The zippered mesh pockets keep clothes organized. And the compression straps maximize what you can pack.

The tough polyester and nylon construction can take a beating without any signs of wear. And we appreciate that the externally accessed, padded laptop sleeve makes pulling out your electronics at security checkpoints a breeze. There’s also a small outer compartment to keep essentials at hand.

You can completely tuck away the backpack straps and carry the pack like a briefcase, or wear it comfortably as a backpack. We’ve stuffed this pack to the gills countless times and have never had a problem with the zippers. Light rain showers or spills roll right off the TPU-coated exterior, but for legit rainstorms, just pull out the included rain cover.

The Allpa also comes in 35L, 42L, 50L, and 70L capacities. As our editor noted in the 42L review , “Building on its fun and functional ethos, Cotopaxi beefs up its bestselling product. The Allpa Travel Pack earns big points for clever design, clean aesthetic, and a surprising number of handy — and hidden — features.”

Yes, the Cotopaxi Allpa packs are an investment, but anyone who travels regularly will find it a worthy one. These powerhouse travel backpacks are sturdy, versatile, and built to last.

Tom Bihn Synapse 25

• Capacity 25 L
• Weight 1 lb., 13 oz.
• Dimensions 13.4" x 20" x 9.1"
• Material 400-denier Halcyon, 420-denier nylon ripstop

• Many different fabrics and color schemes are available
• Built to last design and materials
• Removable webbing hip belt
• Suspension doesn’t pack away
• Side wing pockets are a little awkward to access

Refined and clean-looking, the Tom Bihn Synapse 25 ($250) is a high-end travel backpack we just can’t stop staring at. It just looks that good. Made of burly textiles and zippers, this pack was built to stand the test of tough travel and come out shining on the other side.

The Synapse 25 is the larger version of Tom Bihn’s Synapse 19 , a popular backpack made for daily carry. The bump in volume is appreciated in this travel-oriented version and is doled out in one large compartment as well as a set of pockets on the front of the pack.

We found all the pockets easily accessible, save for the side wing pockets. While these were excellent for the organization of smaller bits and bobs, the openings were a bit awkward to jump into.

Topped off by a cushioned suspension (the foam is a half-inch of supple EV50), this travel backpack didn’t weigh us down on long days of travel when fully packed. And when we wanted to go light, even the webbing hip belt was removable. In terms of the ability to bop around town as a daily driver, this pack is up there with the TimBuk2 Never Check (we liked the back panel on this pack the most).

Along with being carry-on compliant, the Synapse is also one of the few bags on our list that are compact enough to fit under most airline seats without hogging too much precious legroom.

Osprey Nebula 32 Daypack

• Capacity 32 L
• Weight 2 lbs., 1.7 oz.
• Dimensions 19.2" x 12.2" x 11.4"
• Material 420-denier recycled nylon

• TSA-compliant laptop sleeve
• Many options for organization
• Water bottle pockets fit 32 oz. bottles
• Need to release two buckles in order to unzip the main pocket all the way

When it comes to backpacks, Osprey has put in the time — and it shows. The Nebula 32 ($140) feels like all the brand’s most popular packs morphed into one. Most of all, we love how it seamlessly goes from city streets to trails.

This backpack can do it all, whether you’re hauling your laptop and books around town; water, food, and layers on an easy hike; or all of the above and then some for a weekend away.

The internal storage pockets are great for organizing all of your things for easy access. And while the Nebula 32 is top-loading, the main pocket opens up wide enough so you won’t have to unload everything to get to the one thing you want at the bottom. The sternum strap and hip belt are comfortable as well, especially when carrying a heavy load.

On smaller volume packs like this, sometimes design concessions need to be made to accommodate all the functionality, and on the Nebula, it’s in the side compression straps. Like on the Osprey Farpoint/Fairview, the compression system of the pack overlays across the main compartment zipper, meaning you’ll need to undo some straps before rifling around in the storage area. Not a deal breaker, but a little annoying when the TSA line starts to back up behind you.

Overall, the Nebula 32 won’t disappoint if you make it your go-to smaller-volume travel backpack.

Travel Backpack Comparison Chart

How We Tested Travel Backpacks

The staff of GearJunkie is a hot-footed bunch, restlessly plodding across the country or around the globe in search of adventure and whatever else comes our way. And we have a lot of stuff, which necessitates having a travel bag or four in the stable.

Surely any old bindle will do in carrying your kit around, but having a travel backpack that is dialed into the needs of travel can turn a stressful situation into a manageable one. We’ve been testing travel backpacks since 2019 and have put the market slice through the wringer on thousands of miles of travel to weed out the best of the best.

Senior Editor Nick Belcaster has a zeal for international travel, and he leads up our current travel pack testing, logging almost 10,000 flying miles in the last year alone. From Iceland to Utah, Belcaster has carried these packs and lived out of them for weeks, relying on them to support back-to-back travel excursions.

In testing, we looked for a number of features in our travel backpacks, including overall capacity, carry style, durability, and aesthetics. It’s important to think about how you’ll use your travel pack, and as such, every pack on our list is carry-on compliant for the worst-case scenario.

We know no trip will be like the next, so we took a broad swath of the travel backpacks on the market in order to create a list that will suit many different travelers. Packs in hand, over our shoulders, or on our backs, we hit the four corners and tested the best travel backpacks of 2024.

Curious about what we pack in our travel backpacks? We’ve penned up a list for both domestic and international trips .

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose a Travel Backpack

Travel backpack user profiles.

The International Jet-Setter: The term ‘One Bag Travel’ is no stranger to you, and you’ve just about got your life distilled down into 45 liters of space. If international travel is your bag, then a backpack that’s up to the task will be essential to see you through to further time zones.

Efficiency will be the name of the game here, and going with a pack that is dang-near the carry-on maximums for international flights will mean you can make it through without checking a bag. Look for near to 45-liter packs with plenty of organization baked in, as well as a comfortable (and stashable) carry system.

For international travel, the bag we reach for most often had to be the Peak Design Travel Backpack , with a razor-thin second place going to the Matador GlobeRider45 Travel Pack . For an emphasis on organization, the Matador SEG45 splits up the volume well, and if you’ll be schlepping bags around a long way, the Osprey Farpoint & Fairview Packs have all the Osprey suspension we love.

The Weekend Warrior: Maybe it’s a work trip, and maybe it’s just for fun, but it’s only going to take 2-3 days total, and you’ll need a bag that can pack it in. For weekend excursions, we find packs in the 25-35 liter range work well for the minimalists among us, and the 30-40 liter range for those who like a bit more options.

The Tom Bihn Synapse 25 is easily one of the most stylish packs in our review, only slightly edged out by the Timbuk2 Never Check , and both make the grade for a single overnighter in a foreign locale. For a bit more space, you can’t go wrong with the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 40L , a fun pack that is a lot tougher than the multi-colored exterior would let on.

The Commuter: No flight involved! Duty calls, and sometimes you’ll need to lug around a bit more kit than the old briefcase can allow for. Commuting with a travel backpack is a great way to stay comfortable on longer rides, as shoulder and handbags are cumbersome over the long run. Focus on a bag with a more traditional backpack shape that puts an emphasis on ease-of-access, and is in the 20-30L range.

For bumping around town, we’ve come to love the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24 , which not only lugs our remote office around with ease, but also looks pretty slick doing it. The drawstring opening here is a huge boon for quickly stashing a jacket, and the tough exterior fears no weather forecast. For a budget just-get-it-done choice, the JanSport Journey Pack will make it happen for less.

The right size pack for you depends on a few things. First, where are you going? And, how long do you plan to stay? Winter travel often comes with more gear, so you’ll need to pack extra layers. Longer trips often require larger bags.

That said, your personal packing style will be the most important factor. We know minimalists who happily travel for months with only a single backpack in tow and others who want the largest travel backpack possible in addition to a totally stuffed duffel bag . One method isn’t better than the other, but knowing your style is helpful when choosing a bag.

In general, we’ve found that something in the 28-45 liter range is ideal for comfort and packability. Many packs will also offer a compression system to allow you to limit the overall volume of the backpack. We’ve seen many different ways to accomplish this, but the most effective by far were the button snaps and expanding zipper of the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L . Packs toward the 40-45 liter range will be your carry-on bags of choice, and the 45-liter Peak Design, Patagonia MLC , and Matador GlobeRider are perfect for maxing out your allowed space. The 40-liter Osprey Farpoint/Fairview packs give up a little internal room for the luxe suspension system they’re carried with.

Packs in the smaller end of the range, from around 25-30 L, make better personal items, and the TimBuk2 Never Check , Tom Bihn Synapse , and Patagonia Black Hole backpacks all fit snugly underneath an airliner seat. These small bags move through a city gracefully and look more like everyday carry backpacks than traditional luggage.

What good would a bag be if you couldn’t get into it? From a simple drawstring to a thicket of Velcro and zippers, there are plenty of ways to keep your bag closed while you’re on the go, but not every one will be amenable to travel.

Zippered Clamshells: Most travel backpacks will use a clamshell-style design that opens up the backpack like a suitcase, allowing you to pack intentionally as opposed to stuffing things in. Oftentimes, an internal strap system will help keep your items contained while you’re on the move.

Packs with this clamshell design may also opt to add internal dividers to the main storage area, and make these dividers removable — should you need the entire storage area uninhibited. For packs without internal dividers or straps, consider adding a few packing cubes to keep your items organized.

In addition to the rear entry, some backpacks will offer additional entry points through the top or front of the pack. This can be helpful when you need to quickly retrieve something like a passport from your bag, without the need to totally spill the contents. The majority of packs in our review close in this clamshell manner, and a few of our favorites are the Peak Design Travel Backpack , Osprey Farpoint & Fairview 40 Travel Packs , and Matador GlobeRider45 Travel Pack .

Zippered Top-Access: Much like many traditional backpacks, zippered top-access packs load and unload from the topside, and generally only offer one point of entry/egress into the pack. For this reason, packs of this flavor are generally left packed during travel, as digging around for something at the bottom can be a hassle.

Bags of this stripe, including the uber-nice Tom Bihn Synapse 25 and expandable Timbuk2 Never Check , most often make better personal items over carry-ons, as their smaller volumes make for easier searching within.

Drawstring Top-Entry: While not quite as common as a zippered clamshell or top-access pack, drawstring top-entry packs can make for very quick and easy access to your kit if you’re on the move. These packs will integrate an extended fabric collar to the top of the storage area, which can be compressed when needed, or overstuffed with bulky items like jackets.

Carrying Options

There are plenty of ways to lug your kit to your boarding gate, but not all of them will be comfortable for everything. Over-shoulder backpack straps can support a good bit of weight but typically will need some type of frame to truly be supportive. The Osprey Farpoint/Fairview packs were the best-carrying packs in our testing, owed largely to the wire frame and Airscape mesh back panels, but we also enjoyed the carry of the aluminum frame stays on the Matador GlobeRider.

A shoulder strap travel backpack, like the Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L , can be slung across your body and provide a great amount of accessibility on the go. Don’t expect to carry too much weight this way, however.

And then there’s the classic suitcase style, easily towed anywhere. It’s good to note many travel backpacks will have stowable straps to better streamline the pack for a trip through an X-ray machine or stowed under a seat. The strap storage design of the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L impressed us most of all, utilizing magnetic closure flaps to pack away the shoulder and hip straps neatly.

Pockets & Organization

There’s an organizational saying: “A place for everything and everything in its place.” And we couldn’t agree more. Keeping track of everything while you travel is key for organization. And while more pockets always seem better, there is a threshold where having too many simply becomes more places to misplace things. Instead, we recommend packs with three to six pockets.

The Cotopaxi Allpa and Topo Designs Global Travel Bags both have ingenious inner organization systems complete with large zipping “pockets.” It has just enough space to find room for everything but not so many compartments that you’ll be hunting all day for your misplaced passport. For even more organization, the Matador SEG45 splits into five different segments that are accessible from the exterior of the pack.

Bringing along a laptop is a necessary evil for some travelers, and having an incorporated laptop sleeve in your travel backpack can keep it safe during travel. Most laptop sleeves will be padded with some type of foam and nestle in close to the back for maximum protection. In order to be TSA-compliant, a laptop sleeve will need to fold entirely flat away from the pack to be scanned.

Because flying with liquids over 3.4 ounces is prohibited in the U.S., carrying all of these items in a separate toiletry bag can make your foray into the screening line a breeze. Many of the packs on our list incorporate many external pockets where such a bag could be stashed and produced when needed.

Travel luggage takes a beating, so durability is a top concern. Luckily, gear manufacturers realize this and are making increasingly burly yet portable packs. The fan-favorite Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L pack is made with a 900-denier ripstop nylon outer with a TPU laminate for extra durability. It’s nearly indestructible, water-resistant, and versatile.

If you’re traveling somewhere with inclement weather or if your pack needs to double as a climbing bag or hiking pack, durability is extra important. And it’s worth paying more for a backpack that is water-resistant.

Space Efficiency & Carry-On Compliance

Astute observers will note many of the packs in our review sport a rectangular shape, which is certainly due to designers aspiring to create a more space-efficient pack. This isn’t to say that more shapely packs won’t make it happen, but when you’re struggling to make every liter of space count, maximizing dimensions matters.

Carry-on luggage is any bag that you plan on bringing into an airplane and storing in the overhead bins. Because space is limited, airlines dictate the maximum size that any carry-on can be. In the U.S., the most common size is 22 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches, or 45 linear inches (length + width + height). However, this is just a rough guideline; some airlines differ from these dimensions, and you should refer to their information directly.

In general, these dimensions provide a travel backpack with around 40-45 liters of internal volume, so buying a pack that’s as close to that as possible will provide the most space allowed. Many of the packs on our list have the ability to compress to a smaller size, such as the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L .

Be mindful as well, that any protrusions from your travel pack such as shoulder straps or handles will also need to fall within the maximum allowed size. Many travel backpacks today incorporate some type of strap-stowing ability, such as the magnetic panels of the Peak Design packs, the zippered cover of the Osprey Farpoint/Fairview, and the hybrid zipper/panel of the Matador GlobeRider 45. All of these provide a more streamlined profile that should both hit the mark, and fit better into overhead bins.

Travel backpacks run the gamut of prices — from affordable to downright pricey. There are a number of factors that play into what you get for the money.

Budget-Minded Travel Packs

Travel backpacks, as a category, are generally a bit pricer than your average luggage, as they incorporate tough materials that can put up with extensive wear over the lifespan. Travel is tough on bags, so it’s unsurprising that even budget travel backpacks will cost you around $100-150.

These packs often will incorporate more traditional architectures such as a zippered top access, as opposed to the more complicated (and spendy) full-zip clamshell designs. For example, the JanSport Journey Pack ($95) is pretty much your average school bag.

Volumes, too, will be a bit limited in this price range — added material adds cost. The 32-liter Osprey Nebula ($140) is about the best price-to-volume ratio you can get.

Mid-Range Travel Packs

Mid-range packs make up the bread and butter of travel packs, and can be had for around $150 to $200. These designs are often more of the full carry-on variety, and aim to capitalize on permitted volume as much as possible. The 45-liter Matador SEG45 ($200), Patagonia Black Hole MLC ($239), 40-liter Osprey Farpoint/Fairview ($185), and Topo Designs Global Travel Bag ($229) all shoehorn in just about as much space as a friendly gate agent will let you get away with.

For the price, you also get a good variety of functionality that makes travel easier, such as stowable pack straps, interior segmented pockets and sleeves (done excellently on the $170 Cotopaxi Allpa ), and an external compression system that limits the space your bag takes up. Some packs, like the TimBuk2 Never Check ($209), don’t exactly hit these parameters, but instead make up for it in high-quality design and materials.

Premium Travel Packs

Above $250, you’re likely paying for premium materials or a to-the-hilt design that leaves absolutely nothing on the cutting room floor. The Peak Design Travel Backpack ($300) is a great example, and utilizes super high-quality nylon canvas, custom aluminum hardware, and supple seatbelt material webbing in its build, as well as fitting in just about every conceivable feature you could want in a travel pack. The same can be said of the Matador GlobeRider 45 ($350), which uses high-tech UHMPWE-reinforced materials and sports a total of 19 pockets.

The Tom Bihn Synapse 25 ($250) is a bit of an outlier, as it commands a high dollar amount not for the extreme amount of space it offers or amount of features, but for being a hyper-customizable, hand-made bag that uses the nicest textiles available, as well as the best zippers, webbing, and foam in its design. If you’re a fan of the finest materials, this is your daily driver pack.

What Is One Bag Travel?

The ‘One Bag Travel’ ethos and travel backpacks go hand-in-hand. Simply put, to travel in one-bag style is to be minimalist in your luggage choices, and only take what you can carry onto the plane/train/pack animal. Not only does this do away with the fuss of deciding what exactly to bring along with you, but it also allows for breezing through airports — skipping the need to check baggage, wait at baggage claim, or fear for lost luggage.

In order to most effectively travel with one bag, be sure to read up on exactly the baggage size allowances provided by your transportation. This can affect both overall size and weight, and having an expandable pack is a large benefit here. In this way, you can carry just enough to skirt through under the limit, and then expand the bag when you’ve hit your destination for more breathing room. If you aim for a 35-40 liter backpack, you’ll be right on the money for one-bag travel.

Finally, remember that this bag is going to be the only item of luggage you’ve got, so ensure it’ll be comfortable enough for the long haul. Look for padded back panels and hip belts that’ll transfer the load correctly, and if they stash away — all the better.

Our team unanimously agrees that the best travel backpack is the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L . It’s extremely durable, and it offers plenty of organizational pockets to stash your kit away in. The clamshell opening makes packing a breeze, and we really appreciated the unique shoulder strap storage options available to turn the pack into a stripped-down bag that would slide into any overhead compartment.

The best size bag for traveling depends largely on your travel itinerary and mode of transport. The Cotopaxi Allpa packs range from 28 to 42 liters.

The 28-liter option makes for a compact and comfortable backpack that easily fits in overhead airplane compartments. The 42-liter option is a bit more like carrying a duffel bag on your back, but it still manages to fit in overhead compartments. It’s a great option for maximizing carry-on capacity in backpack form.

While both have their place in travel, a backpack can offer some advantages over a suitcase. Since they’re much more portable, backpacks can be brought to many more places where a suitcase won’t work. Suitcases can be your large load carriers, but a good travel backpack gives you the freedom to strike out on daily adventures.

Travel backpacks absolutely can be carry-on luggage, given they meet the size requirements. In the U.S., the most common maximum size is 22 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches, or 45 linear inches (length + width + height). But this is only a common size, and different airlines will have different specifics. Consult with your airline specifically to determine what they allow.

While different body types will find different travel packs comfortable, we can all agree that a good support system and ample foam make for a comfortable carry. In our own testing, we found the Osprey Farpoint 40 and Fairview 40 Travel Packs were by far the most comfortable due to their plush suspension systems.

Because many different airlines operate a slate of different planes, there isn’t a standard under-seat luggage size, although there is an average: 16 inches x 12 inches x 6 inches. Some airlines allow personal items larger than this, but you should consult with their customer service for specifics. Our favorite personal item-sized travel pack was the Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack , which, at 24 liters compressed, easily slides under a seat.

The Best Laptop Backpacks of 2024

Whether you’re headed to the office, class, or even the trailhead, here’s our top picks for the best laptop backpacks of 2024.

The Best Daypacks of 2024

We tested the best daypacks of 2024 with options for every budget. Top picks include Osprey, Cotopaxi, and more.

Hailing from the hemlocks and hanging mosses of Washington State, Senior Editor Nick Belcaster is an adventure journalist following threads of stories across the West. Cruelly stolen from the alpine swales of rural Wisconsin at a young age, Nick made do ascending the snows and granite of the North Cascades while completing a journalism degree. A long stint on the Pacific Crest Trail in 2018 codified a life bent on sleeping on minor slopes and picking devil’s club out of his shoes.

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Home » Gear » best travel daypack

Choosing The Best Travel Daypacks – EPIC Round Up (2024)

And this is exactly why I wrote this definitive guide to the best daypacks for travel! A travel daypack is a truly essential piece of kit for any backpacking adventure and it’s important to get it right. Don’t scrimp and get something cheap. Believe me, you’ll thank me later.

Our EPIC round-up of the 11 best travel daypacks is more than a list; it’s a gateway to finding your perfect travel companion. These daypacks are not just about carrying your essentials; they’re about enhancing your travel experience, ensuring every item you need is just a zip away. Join us as we explore the top picks that are sure to make your next journey as seamless as it is memorable.

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

Quick Answer: What are the best daypacks for travel?

• The Best Urban Daypack – Nomatic Backpack
• Best Daypack for Long Hikes – Osprey Daylite Pack
• Best Compressible Daypack – Osprey Remnants Packable Daypack
• Best Travel Daypack for Electronics – AER Travel Pack 3
• Best Recycled Daypack – LOJEL Niru Daypack
• Lightest Travel Daypack – Deuter Speed Lite
• Best Backpack For a Day Hike – Osprey Stratos 24
• Best Packable Daypack – Outlander Packable
• Sexiest Travel Daypack – Osprey Talon 22
• Best Anti-Theft Travel Daypack – Pacsafe Metrosafe
• Jump to -> The List of the Best 8 Daypacks

My Favorite Daypacks for Backpacking

How to choose the best travel daypack, faq about the best travel daypack, in conclusion: the best travel daypacks.

Here it is: the ultimate list of the best daypacks for travel! Tested, considered deeply, and then ordered in a way that’s gonna make you go “ Hmm, oh yeah, that’s a nice choice. ” What a finely pruned list of traveling day packs!

In a rush? Check out a quick overview of our favorite daypacks just below! After that, we’ll get into the nitty-gritty and the reviews.

Osprey Daylite Pack

• Feature Highlights >
• > The All Mighty Guarantee!
• > Comfortable

Nomatic Backpack

• Feature Highlights: >
• > Sleek Design
• > Always useful

Osprey Remnants Packable Daypack

• > It compresses!
• > Padded shoulder straps

AER Travel Pack 3

• > Top access laptop compartment
• > Well organized, designed

LOJEL Niru Daypack

• > Multiple color options
• > Expandable size options

Deuter Speed Lite

• > Weighs just 15.2 ounces
• > Great for trail running

Osprey Stratos 24

• > Most comfortable hiking pack
• > Lifetime guarantee

Outlander Packable

• > Fold to 8.5 x 8.5 x 1.2 inches
• > Only weighs .7 lbs

Osprey Talon 22

• > Feature-rich

Fjallraven Kanken

• > Simple yet useful
• > Tougher than it looks

Pacsafe Metrosafe

• > Anti-Theft Design

#1 Osprey Daylite Pack – The Best Daypack for Hiking

The Osprey Daylite Plus is a versatile and lightweight backpack, renowned for its durability and comfort. With a 20-liter capacity, it’s designed for daily use or short adventures, featuring a spacious main compartment, a front pocket with mesh organizer and key clip, and dual side mesh pockets for water bottles or quick-access items. Its ventilated and padded back panel and shoulder straps ensure comfort, even during extended wear. The Daylite Plus also offers hydration compatibility and multifunctional attachment points, making it a popular choice for hikers, commuters, and travellers seeking a reliable, compact pack that doesn’t compromise on functionality.

Osprey also offers an ‘ all mighty guarantee ‘ which means they will repair any damage that occurs to your pack. However, newer versions of the AMG are less comprehensive and now exclude both wear and tear and airline damage. Personally, I swear by Osprey packs. I’ve been travelling with the same 7-litre backpack for nine years now.

Check out our full review of the Osprey Daylite plus for more details.

• The All Mighty Guarantee!
• Comfortable
• Great for hikers or travelers
• No inner zipper pockets
• Not ideal for digital nomads
• On the smaller side (can be pro or con)

Is the Osprey Daylite the best travel daypack for you?

Whether you are exploring a city or jungle, this lightweight daypack packs some serious punch for its size and weight. There is a lot of storage inside including a padded sleeve that can be used for either a tablet or a hydration reservoir so you can convert it into a hiking hydration daypack . This is a tough, highly versatile daypack that will be more than adequate for most travelers needs… 9.5/10

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#2 Nomatic Backpack – The Best Urban Daypack

If you are after a go-to backpack for everyday use , then meet the Nomatic Backpack. It’s built from high quality materials and is intended for everyday, urban use; this is reflected both in its sober but stylish design aesthetic and the packs layout.

The storage capacity is 20 – 24l making this a great commuter bag and it can also be carried as a briefcase in case you need to go to a business meeting or something. Several members of our team own and love Nomatics and each new generation of their packs seem to get better and better. However, when I took this pack out hiking, it was not the most comfortable but it does perform much better for transit, taking down the gym or trips into town.

To find out more about how we tested this pack, check out our full review of the Nomatic Backpack for more!

• Sleek design
• Well comparmentalised
• Suitable for business use
• Not available in Europe
• Not suitable for hiking
• It’s pricey

Is the Nomatic Backpack the best travel daypack for you?

Note that Nomatic do not ship to Europe so if you are in Europe, then no this bag is not for you. Beyond that, this is solid choice for those in need or an Urban commuter backpack. If you want something durable with minimal storage then this is you pack.

If you need something with a bit more room (for gym shoes or something) then look for a 28-30L pack. This backpack is also not suitable for day hikes so if you like to get outdoors, go choose yourself an Osprey.

#3 Osprey Remnants Packable Daypack – The Best Compressible Daypack

The Osprey Remnants Packable Daypack is possibly the coolest travel daypack on this list. Why? That’s easy – it looks awesome, carries a ton of gear, is durable… and it COMPRESSES!

That’s right, this bad boy is a perfect daypack for travelers. The fact that it compresses and it’s lightweight nature make it very easy to transport. At 17 liters, this is one of the best travel bags for day trips. The Osprey Remnants Packable Daypack is made from ripstop nylon, is air mesh, and features YKK zippers in its construction.

Along with it’s durability is its comfort – the Osprey Remnants Packable Daypack has padded mesh shoulder straps, and a well designed breathable back panel. Furthermore, it’s priced at only $30 making it one of the best cheap daypacks on the market especially considering that the compressible case is included.

Prefer Tortuga backpacks? Check out their kickass Setout Laptop Backpack.

• It compresses!
• Lightest pack on this list
• Padded shoulder straps
• Back ventilation
• Not an ideal hiking daypack
• Not everyone loves the look of Osprey bags

Is the Osprey Remnants Packable Daypack the best travel daypack for you?

While all the bags on this list are awesome in their own way – it’s tough to beat the Tortuga Setout Daypack. Due to it’s durability, size, and compressibility this backpack is the ultimate daypack for travelers looking to travel super light… 9.5/10

#4 AER Travel Pack 3 – Best Travel Daypack for Electronics

The AER Travel Pack 3 is a highly functional and stylish travel backpack, designed to meet the demands of modern travelers. With its 35-liter capacity, it’s perfect for short trips, offering a meticulously organized design with a spacious main compartment, multiple pockets, and dedicated spaces for a laptop, shoes, and other travel essentials. The backpack is crafted from durable, water-resistant materials, ensuring your belongings stay safe and dry.

Its ergonomic design includes padded shoulder straps, a ventilated back panel, and load lifters for optimal comfort and support. The Travel Pack 3 also features a lay-flat design for easy packing and unpacking, lockable zippers for added security, and a sleek, urban aesthetic that makes it a favorite among city dwellers and digital nomads alike. The Travel Pack boasts a dedicated laptop compartment that can accommodate a laptop up to 15″. It’s easy to access, which is great when you’re constantly getting in and out of your backpack.

Finally, the AER is tough, crucial for keeping your gear safe. Though it’s technically waterproof, the nylon and tarpaulin material is resitant enough to keep most water out. Just don’t walk out into a rainstorm without a cover.

• Very durable
• Top access laptop compartment
• Well organized, designed
• Rain cover is sold separately
• Water bottle pocket is a bit small
• Could’ve been more internal straps

Is the AER Travel Pack 3 the best travel daypack for you?

A stylish daypack from a stylish company, it’s padding and frame are built for ultimate comfort, and the additional dedicated laptop section makes it enticing for anyone traveling with tech … 9.0/10

#5 LOJEL Niru Daypack – The Best Recycled Daypack

Nothing makes a hippy traveler’s heart flutter quite like the words eco-friendly and recycled . Well, I can think of a few other things, but let’s focus on the backpack for now. The Niru Daypack is constructed from 100% recycled nylon fabric and uses 100% metal for the components. Just incase you need another reason to love this daypack, LOJEL even ships the backpack to you in corn-based, home-compostable packaging!

This 20 liter daypack uses a unique side access main compartment, allowing you a different look inside your bag. In doing this, LOJEL was able to include extra internal pockets the length of the bag, giving you more organizational options to pack however you please.

This lightweight daypack is designed to adjust to your everyday life and needs, no matter what they may be. Featuring three adjustable sizes, the backpack can slim down to hold a single journal and some documents or expand to hold a couple of days worth of clothes and your laptop. Overall, LOJEL brings an eco-friendly, highly functional backpack to the table without too large of a price tag.

Want some more ideas? Have a look at the epic range of travel luggage from LOJEL .

• Recycled material construction
• Large side-access main compartment
• Multiple color options
• Expandable size options
• Not waterproof
• Not great for long-days hiking around
• Thin shoulder straps

#6 Deuter Speed Lite – The Lightest Travel Daypack

First things first, this day bag is definitely not the right daypack for the average backpacker but if your primary concern is weight, this is the best lightweight daypack on the market, weighing in at just 1 lb 1 oz! This pack is extremely versatile and light and is perfect for ultra-runners, hikers and other types of athletes. If you are planning on going on plenty of adventures with your pack, this may be the right choice for you. I’ve been a big fan of Deuter packs for a while and I tested a Deuter Speed Lite whilst hiking in Pakistan in 2017.

What I really like about the Speedlite is that it has quick-access mesh pockets along the front meaning you can easily grab a protein bar on the go. The padded back panel is comfortable and ventilates well, even in scorching heats. The Speedlite includes a hydration reservoir sleeve which is rare for lightweight daypacks, but super handy if you want to drink on the go.

The Speed Lite does have one major disadvantage – this is a lightweight daypack designed for moving fast, and the manufacturers have done everything in their power to keep the weight down, this means you get zero paddings on the removable hip belt.

• Lightest daypack on the market
• Perfect for athletics
• Quick-access mesh pockets
• Comfortable and well ventilated
• Not as practical for non-athletes
• Zero padding on belt
• Bungee chords prove to be fairly useless (for me at least)
• Not good for digital nomads

Is the Deuter Speed Light the best daypack for travel for you?

For smaller loads and day hikes, the Speed Lite is widely regarded as the best ultralight daypack on the market and has a cult following amongst hikers, climbers, and mountaineers. As the most effective lightweight travel daypack on the market, this is an obvious choice if weight is your primary concern and you want a daypack that won’t weigh you down whilst running or climbing… 9.5/10

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#7 Osprey Stratos 24 – The Best Day Hike Backpack

First things first, this is a day hiking backpack . That doesn’t mean you can’t use it as a hiking daypack for thru-hikes. This a seriously comfortable, stylish and innovative pack which is widely considered to be the best Osprey daypack for hiking. The Stratos 24 includes an integrated rain cover, internal hydration reservoir sleeve and a stow-on-the-go trekking pole attachment. This feature rich pack kicks ass and is probably one of the most comfortable daypacks around.

The dual side stretch mesh pockets and front panel storage pocket provide you with plenty of places to store water bottles, snacks or other bits and pieces. This is one of the most expensive packs on the list and it also is not especially light. It can’t pack down like foldable or compressible daypacks but if you want the most comfortable, reliable daypack for your travels then this is it.

The Stratos range by Osprey comes in several sizes so you could consider upping the size and picking up a 34 litre version instead. If you wanted go bigger (it’s better sometimes, right?) Osprey makes a 36-liter version of this pack. Read our review of the Stratos 36 and see if it’s a better fit for you!

• Phenomenal for hikers
• Style points
• Integrated rain cover
• Trekking pole attachment (or possibly a spear)
• Internal hydration reservoir sleeve
• Very pricey
• Does not pack down well
• Pocket accessibility is just ok

Is the Osprey Stratos 24 the best travel daypack for you?

If you are looking for a stylish daypack and don’t need something ultralight, then the Osprey Stratos 24 is a keeper. Hikers in particular will find this bag awesome, and although it wouldn’t be my first choice for the best daypack travelers, I can see the appeal. It looks sexy, and Osprey still kicks ass… 9.5/10

#8 Outlander Packable – The Best Packable Daypack

The Outlander is one of the smallest daypacks for travel and it folds up to become even more compact so you can pack it in your main backpack when needed. Besides the multiple compartments, this bag has an internal security zippered pocket to protect valuable items. It’s an extremely water resistant daypack and it is reinforced to be ultra-durable to abrasions too.

It is also very lightweight hiking daypack (weighing in at just 0.7 lbs) but please note that it does not boast any of the comfort or functionality of the best hiking daypacks. This is a great daypack for wandering around town and one of the best backpacks for day trips but it’s not comfortable to wear whilst hiking. The Outlander is only $20 so if you’re looking for a cheap packable day bag to explore cities with, then this is a good choice.

This is probably one of the best small daypacks for the cost of entry but it doesn’t come with a lifetime guarantee… Oh, I almost forgot! The Outlander comes in different colours, in case you’re all about that style.

• Smallest pack on the list
• Compact – a bag that folds up!
• Multiple compartments
• Water resistant
• Not for proper hikes/athletics
• Simple style
• Not many accessories when compared to competition
• Little comfort
• No lifetime guarantee

Is the Outlander Packable the best travel daypack for you?

If you are the type of traveler that is looking to travel as light as possible – even at the sacrifice of hiking comfortably – then the Outlander Packable could be a good pick for you. Ultralight travelers, you’ve met your match! Hikers, digital nomads or anyone with camera gear, please seek elsewhere… 8.5/10

#9 Osprey Talon 22 – The Stylish Daypack for Travel

I’ve been using Osprey packs for nine years now and my current hiking daypack is the Talon 22. And it’s the goddamn tits! This is one of the best value lightweight hiking daypacks on the market and comes complete with an airscape back to keep you cool and comfortable, plenty of pockets, a whistle on the chest belt, a padded hip belt and external hydration access.

For day hikes and other adventures, the Talon 22 is hands down one of the best travel daypack around. Another great lightweight option (although not as ultralight) is the Osprey Apogee which comes with similar features. This particular model is ideal because it has THREE exterior pockets and a mesh pocket for water bottles. It is also one of the most durable options out there, specially made for rough use. The pocket on the hipbelt is a nice touch and a good place to keep your phone or snacks.

Like all Osprey products, the Talon 22 comes with the Almighty Guarantee meaning that Osprey will repair or replace your pack, no matter what. If you want an upgrade, there’s also a 33-liter Talon backpack as well!

• Perfect for hikers
• Good for travelers
• Plenty of pockets
• You get to be like me!
• Not for digital nomads
• If you don’t hike, look elsewhere
• Runs a bit small in size
• Not the cheapest option

Is the Osprey Talon the best travel daypack for you?

In my opinion, this is the best Osprey daypack on the market right now however I admit that it’s a better fit for travelers who plan on doing plenty of hiking and might not meet your requirements if you have a laptop you want to carry around in your daypack… 9/10

#10 Fjallraven Kanken – Another Urban Daypack

The Fjallraven is a timeless backpack. Seriously, I don’t think you could walk on the streets or venture anywhere without seeing one of these bags, at least once in your life. They’re immensely popular and, contrary to what some people may think very useful bags.

Right of the bat, I’m going to say this: Fjallraven makes pretty minimalist backpacks . The most classic version essentially has just two main compartments and a couple of handles. You don’t get any hidden pockets, extra accessories, or wild new technology when buying a Fjallraven.

What you do get is a bag that works. Fjallravens are very hearty backpacks – I’ve seen people take these things to the ends of the earth and back and put them through hell in the process. The bag is mostly made from vinyl which does a great job of standing up to the elements. The look of the Fjallraven is also unquestionable. Boxy, minimal, angular, and a bright red logo; these bags haven’t changed their look in decades. Honestly the look doesn’t have to change either. Vintage is always in vogue and the Fjallraven doesn’t look to be changing anytime soon.

• Simple yet useful
• Tougher than it looks
• Immediately recognizable
• Brand is a bit pricey
• Nothing flashhy

Is the Fjallraven Kanken the best travel daypack for you?

Looking for a bag that doesn’t seem to go out of fashion and doesn’t lose its usefulness? The Fjallraven Kanken is that bag. Those in need of the best urban daypack will find a lot to love in the Fjallraven – it won’t break easily and can look good on just about any person. It’s just one of those pieces of kit that is able to stand the tests of time.

#11 Pacsafe Metrosafe – The Best Anti-Theft Travel Daypack

We recently reviewed the Pacsafe Venturesafe  and were thoroughly impressed. This tough anti-theft daypack features anti-slash material, lockable zips, hidden pockets and even a slash-proof strap which you can use to connect your backpack to heavy furniture. We’d recommend this as the best urban daypack for travel.

Whilst this anti-theft daypack does have its drawbacks (read the review to learn more), it’s definitely one of the toughest daypacks around, performs fairly well as hiking daypack, and if you want absolute peace of mind for your electronics and valuables, then the safest way to transport them whilst on the road is almost certainly going to be in the Metrosafe 20 litre daypack. If safety is a large concern for you, check out our epic guide to the best sling packs !

#12 Wandrd Veer 18 Packable Bag

Packable daypacks are now a thing and this is by the best packable daypack that we have tried. OK, focused on hauling high-quality equipment since 2017, the innovative backpack brand Wandrd made this packable daypack out of weather-resistant materials that stay lightweight to help modern travelers get more out of their trips. The packable bag weighs 14 ounces and will take up to 17 liters of gear wherever the journey takes you.

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

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

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

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

Everyone travels differently, so the most important thing to consider is YOUR travel style and needs.

Do you have a lot of electronics? Are you keen to head on day hikes? Is a space-saving foldable backpack adequate for your needs? How heavy should your daypack be?

Let me run you through the top factors to consider when picking out the best travel daypack for your needs…

Size of your travel daypack

Size is the most important feature when it comes to choosing the best daypack for you. You want to make sure that your day bag is big enough to carry your everyday essentials but you don’t want it to be so large that it’s a hindrance… Choosing the right size will depend on how much stuff you plan on cramming into your daypack.

For most backpackers, a twenty litre daypack will provide ample space. The best travel daypack shouldn’t be larger than 30 litres unless you want to try and travel with a carry on-only backpack as your only piece of luggage. If you do decide to go that route, check out our review on the Osprey Farpoint 40 , one of the best carry-on travel backpacks.

Weight of your travel daypack

The best travel daypacks are going to be lightweight enough for you to hike through urban jungles, real jungles, and up into the mountains.  These days, most daypacks are pretty light – North Face and Osprey both do a great job of creating truly lightweight daypacks.

The comfort of your daypack

You and your small backpack are going to become best friends so comfort plays a huge role when choosing the best daypack for your travels. If you choose the right size and weight, you are already halfway there. I strongly recommend picking up a backpack with a ventilated back to keep you from getting a super sweaty back. A padded hip-belt is also well worth having if you plan on doing plenty of hiking.

To make sure that your bags feels just right on you, learn how to adjust it properly with this handy fitting guide from REI.

Just as important as the size, security is an attribute you don’t want to overlook when searching for the perfect soul-pack. More than one backpacker friend has returned to their hostel only to discover that his or her wallet was stolen whilst getting pissed at the bar.

Although a slash proof daypack is ideal, you can get by with a pack that has double zippers which you can lock together. One feature I really like about Osprey packs is that the chest belt comes with an inbuilt whistle… Perfect for emergencies. If security really is your number one priority, check out our review of Pacsafe’s Venturesafe backpack.

Your daypack – be it a city daypack or hiking daypack – needs to be resistant and lightweight to make it easier to carry around. Water-resistant material is a plus. Although the daypack doesn’t need to be completely waterproof, make sure that it can take some drizzle without getting all your stuff soaked.

A dry-fast material is also ideal, that way you won’t be stuck with a musty bag. All of the daypacks reviewed in this post are made from high-quality, water-resistant, materials so you don’t need to stress.

Multiple Compartments

Multiple compartments are essential to make your day travel bag more practical. Having just one compartment will mix all of your belongings together and it’d be a pain in the ass to try to find one particular item if you are in a hurry. Having several pockets will help you to get your stuff organised and separated. Ideally, the best travel daypack should have between three to five compartments to keep everything in place.

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

What does a daypack backpack need?

A daypack backpack needs to fit your belongings that you use daily. We’re talking phone, wallet, power bank, snacks, maps, and so on. A bonus point is an extra department for your water bottle.

What is the lightest day backpack?

The Deuter Speed Lite might not be the biggest daypack, but it’s definitely the lightest. With weight of 1 lb 1 oz, it’s impressively sturdy and stylish.

What is the difference between a backpack and daypack?

A daypack is normally a little bit smaller and a hell lot lighter than a standard backpack. It’s for daily use which requires less volume, hence the smaller dimensions.

Are there any waterproof daypacks?

The AER Travel Pack 3 is pretty much waterproof, however, if you’re carrying expensive electronics with you, you might want to opt for an additional rain mat.

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Once you hit the road, you will quickly fall in love with travel so it’s important that you stretch your money as far as possible… Therefore, I strongly recommend picking a pack that comes with a lifetime guarantee.

It was a tough call, but the Osprey Talon is the best daypack for travelers. Designed by backpackers for backpackers, they know exactly what you need from your travel daypack. I’m a huge fan of mine. It’s gone a long way and seen a lot of skies.

The Talon might not be cheap, but you are really getting your money’s worth with it. This is the same pack that I’ve been using for seven years and it is simply the best hiking daypack. In my opinion, this is the best travel daypack for adventurous travelers and will suit most people on the road.

However, it is really tough to fit a laptop inside and everything else you may need to transport on a bus. Therefore, my second recommendation is the North Face Borealis .

The Borealis is a tough, innovative travel daypack which can handle hikes and also stow your laptop away safely in the padded laptop sleeve. This is the most comfortable hiking daypack I have found which still has a padded laptop sleeve.

Both of these packs are more than adequate for hiking and for hanging around town and, crucially, both of these daypacks come with lifetime guarantees.

So that’s it! Get yourself a pack, amigos, get packed, and go packing. Over and out!

Will Hatton

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Hi, what about the Manta 24? Basing on the specs on the Osprey website it seems it can compete with the Talon and Stratos and from a pure stylish point of view I find it more attractive than the two mentioned above. So why it is not taken into account? It is simply that you didn’t try it (maybe because it is a new model?) or you tried it and for some reason it didn’t manage to enter in the top 10? If this is the case which aspect of the Manta is its weak point?

Hello, Indeed the Manta 24 is also a solid daypack choice. Just to be clear, we are Manta 24 fans! It is just as good in terms of performance as the Talon or Stratos. The big advantage of the Manta is the hydration reservoir – if that is what you are looking for. Not everyone needs that feature so it was less of a priority for us to mention. We will consider adding the Manta 24 to this list in the future. Good shout!

Great article. I’m looking at backpacks with zip panel removable day-packs. If you get one of the above, how do you carry it when you also have your backpack? Do you wear it on your front or attach it to the backpack somehow?

I usually wear a daypack on my front. Safer and more comfortable.

Great article! Thanks for the info. Do you know anything about Ethnotek backpacks? I’m heading to SE Asia for 6 months and I need a day bag. I have a 48L Osprey Kestral as my main bag, so I want something in the 20-25L range to store my laptop and Canon G7X along with all the accompanying accessories.

I’m not familiar with Ethnotek backpacks I’m afraid…

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16 Best Travel Backpacks for Day Trips, Outdoor Adventures, Commuting, and More

By Madison Flager and Paris Wilson

Whether you're hopping on a bike, trekking across rugged terrain, sightseeing, shopping, or jetting off to a business meeting, the best travel backpacks give you the freedom to explore hands-free. With so many options to choose from, we've rounded up 15 of the best bags to throw over your shoulders, from chic carry-ons to super durable options, all of which prove there really is a backpack for every occasion. Our editors and contributors road tested dozens of backpacks for months to determine the best of the best for our readers. We considered each backpack's weight, capacity, price, comfortability, style, and how well its held up.

Ahead, discover our editors' and contributors' recommendations for the weather-resistant carry-on bags, ultralight hiking backpacks, and sleek business-friendly options to bring on your next adventure.

Our top picks:

Best for weekend trips: Quince Revive Nylon backpack Best for long vacations: Roam The Continental backpack Best for business travel: Monos Metro backpack Best for everyday use: Lo & Sons The Rowledge backpack Best splurge option: Peugeot Voyages Laptop backpack tote

This gallery is part of Condé Nast Traveler’s first-ever Luggage Week , for which dozens of suitcases, backpacks, and weekender bags were road-tested by our editors.

All products and listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Calpak Luka Laptop Backpack

Calpak's Luka collection is made of scratch-resistant material, so you can rest assured that this backpack will hold up for years. “I love this backpack's material because of how durable it is for travel. I’ve spilt coffee, food, and makeup on this bag and it's so easy to clean with a disinfectant wipe,” says associate commerce editor Meaghan Kenny . It's her go-to backpack because of its many pockets, roomy compartments, and ultra-soft material. Inside, there's a large zippered compartment, a small mesh pocket, and three compartments for keeping items like socks, beauty products, or tech essentials separate. “One of my favorite features is the shoe compartment on the bottom of the bag that fits a pair of slippers or sandals,” says Kenny. The Luka backpack can hold up to 22 liters of essentials, but it still feels so lightweight.

Pros:  Laptop compartment, trolley sleeve, water bottle pocket, soft adjustable straps Cons: Very narrow luggage trolley sleeve

Quince Revive Nylon backpack

Made from 15 plastic bottles, the sleek recycled nylon on the Quince backpack is smooth to the touch, water-repellent, and lightweight. The nylon material is a selling point for senior commerce editor at Architectural Digest , Rachel Fletcher . “I love the black nylon because it’s basically invincible when it comes to stains and —two things I’m very prone to," she says. Though compact, it can still fit quite a bit—Fletcher has used it for commutes to the office as well as a weekend to Connecticut . She says "it fits an East Coast summer weekend’s worth of clothing pretty comfortably. It's best to bring on an airplane as your personal item, but if you’re a light traveler, it would definitely fit the bill for a quick trip."

Pros:  Thoughtful laptop sleeve, water-repellent material, accessible price point Cons: A little bulky

eBags Mother Lode Jr. backpack

Traveler contributor Tori Harstein says the eBags Mother Lode Jr. backpack is “perfect for weekend trips and can save a buck for thrifty travelers limited to personal items. For longer vacations, it’s probably best to supplement it with an additional carry-on .” It's compact enough to fit under the seat in front of you on an airplane and comes with backpack straps that are easy to stow. It you need some extra room, you can use the 1.5-inch zipper expansion. Choose from a few different ways to wear it: enjoy hands-free travel on your back, tuck the traps away and carry it as a briefcase, or throw the bag over one shoulder with a convenient duffel strap.

Pros:  Many separate compartments, opens like a suitcase which makes packing easier Cons: Can feel heavy on your back

Tumi Alpha Bravo Navigation backpack

With five colors and patterns to choose from, the customization is great for this Tumi backpack. The small, compact design hides the sheer capacity of the Navigator backpack—and it can be expanded for more space. Global director of audience development Lara Kramer says she can easily fit a weekend's worth of clothes and toiletries inside (and an extra pair of flats or sandals in the summer). “Tumi’s backpacks are the perfect combination of functional and comfort. The shoulder straps are well-padded and easily adjustable, and the bag also features a padded mesh back panel for additional support. For easy lifting, there is also a leather top carry handle that adds to its versatility,” says Kramer. Plus, it's made from recycled ballistic nylon, so you can feel good about your purchase.

Pros:  Many pockets (both inside and outside), padded mesh back panel, recycled material Cons: Hefty price tag

Monos Metro Backpack

This design-forward vegan leather bag is just the thing for travelers looking for a more elevated backpack. According to senior commerce editor Madison Flager , “it’s a comfortable bag to wear, and fits a lot—I’ve used it as an overnight bag. I do think it’s a great backpack, especially for commuters or for work trips where you want the practicality of a backpack while also looking polished." Whether you're headed on a weekend trip, carrying necessities on your daily commute, or using it as a carry-on bag, the Monos Metro backpack is a smart choice. The inner laptop compartment fits a 15" laptop, and there's a built-in trolley sleeve, top carry handle, and adjustable shoulder straps. The bag also comes with a Metro Kit, a modular pouch that snaps securely onto the front of the backpack, so you can keep essentials like a phone, earbuds, and hand sanitizer nearby.

Pros:  Multiple pockets, trolley sleeve, and comes with a removable pouch Cons: Not very lightweight and can feel bulky

Herschel Kaslo Daypack Tech

Although labeled as a tech bag, the simple and sleek design makes it versatile enough to wear just about anywhere. There’s two main compartments that give you plenty of room to pack clothes, toiletries, a laptop, iPad, and large over-the-ear headphones. There’s also multiple interior pockets that keep small essentials secure. Kenny was able to fit two days worth of clothing inside and says it's a great personal item for long-haul flights . “It’s so easy to carry, thanks to its buckle that connects the two straps which helps better distribute the weight and keep the backpack secure,” she says.

Pros:  Luggage sleeve, made from recycled materials, water bottle pocket Cons: Earbuds pocket is only compatible with Apple products or others that are similarly shaped

Dagne Dover Dakota Backpack

Former Traveler editor Alex Erdekian has traveled with the Dagne Dover backpack to Mexico, Italy , France, New Hampshire , and Boston to name a few. There are several pockets inside and it expands enough to fit a weekend’s worth of clothing. It’s extremely light when unpacked and the foamy exterior straps don’t dig into your shoulders and evenly distributes the weight of the backpack. It's made from neoprene and Performance Air Mesh which was a selling point for Erdekian. "The look of this backpack is a major part of why I use it so much. Something about the neoprene foam look feels really modern and fresh. It also looks so simple and free of distractions, whilst being tricked out with all these hidden bells and whistles on the inside,” she says.

Pros:  Spacious, comfortable, chic design Cons: There are almost too many pockets inside and the black neoprene can get a little scuffed

Lo & Sons The Rowledge backpack

Traveler Contributor Lydia Mansel loves this sleek, convertible backpack for carrying all of her work essentials. It features a 13" laptop compartment and can easily transition into a tote, thanks to backpack straps that tuck into a back pocket. It has plenty of pockets for organization—including a hidden one at the top for slipping your passport and boarding pass into while at the airport—and a trolley sleeve. It's made of a mix of nylon and leather, and has memory foam straps for extra comfort.

Pros:  It can carry two laptops, plenty of pockets, luggage sleeve Cons: Offered in two sizes, but the smaller version is a little too small to store a day's worth of essentials

Read a full review of this backpack here .

Pond LA Transform tote

Kenny has deemed it the most functional tote that she's ever used. You might be wondering why a tote deserves a spot on our best backpacks list—it transforms into a backpack with its adjustable straps. It's made from lightweight oxford fabric that's known to be durable and water-resistant. It can fit easily fit a 15"laptop and slides over your carry-on with its luggage trolley sleeve.

Pros: Can be worn as a backpack or tote, multiple pockets inside, large water bottle pocket Cons: The straps can feel a bit awkward

Read a full review of this bag here.

Roam The Continental backpack

Each time Flager takes this backpack on vacation she's complimented on its aesthetic. The bag is fully customizable, so each customer can choose the colors used for the front, back, sides, and straps. The wide, deep side pockets are a highlight for Flager, who says “there’s a place for everything—I like to put my important documents, ID, phone, and AirPods in the top zippered pocket for easy access, my Kindle or a book in the largest exterior pocket, and my keys in the smallest exterior pocket. I like that there are two side pockets for a water bottle and an umbrella or other small item."

Pros:  Lightweight, many color options Cons: A water bottle sometimes slips out of the pocket

Bagallini Soho backpack

This is has long been a go-to work bag for commerce producer Paris Wilson , “I've carried this non-stop since I got it. I just love how lightweight it is. It has a lot of storage space and a dedicated laptop sleeve," she says. It has one main compartment with a laptop sleeve and interior pockets that have hard inserts and pen holders. It's impossible to overpack with this bag which means that you don't have to worry about the weight straining your shoulders. Wilson notes that one of her favorite features of the backpack is the design: “it has a study build where it stands up on its own while I organize my things. The reinforced structure makes me feel put together when I wear it.”

Pros:  Multiple pockets, can stand on it sown Cons: Limited colors available

Troubadour Apex backpack

If you're looking for a sleek yet functional bag that's polished enough for the office, look no further than Troubadour's Apex backpack. Made of waterproof fabric, Kenny says this lightweight backpack is perfect for busy commuters. It fits up to a 17" laptop and has multiple pockets for small essentials like AirPods, glasses, or a wallet. This stylish backpack also features a breathable back panel and ergonomic padded shoulder straps for added comfort. “This would be a great bag for business trip and thanks to its trolley sleeve, it fits nicely on your carry-on," says Kenny.

Pros:  Padded laptop compartment, waterproof material, trolley sleeve Cons: Not ideal for active days outdoors due to its sophisticated look

Cotopaxi Tarak 20L Backpack

Contributor Rekaya Gibson raves about the amount of space that this backpack offers. “It includes dedicated space to carry heavy-duty gear like ropes and an ice axe with ease, and two exterior pockets to keep smaller items organized,” she says. The top of the bag has a convenient drawstring that secures your items on the top before covering it with the flap. Each bag comes from repurposed materials which vary slightly—this helps reduce waste, making it a more environmentally friendly pick, too.

Pros:  Has a lot of security elements (which is great for hikes) Cons: Shows wear quickly depending on your trek

Lululemon City Adventurer backpack 20L

Although deemed a gym bag, the City Adventurer backpack takes characteristics from it's name and can be the perfect companion for days spent exploring. The water-repellent fabric makes it an easy choice when commuting on rainy days or when you are packing it into a suitcase with toiletries (don't worry we have you covered ). Flager likes using this backpack for days when she heads to the gym after work. The backpack has thick padded straps, a trolley sleeve, and an expandable laptop sleeve.

Pros:  Separate shoe compartment, trolley sleeve, padded laptop pocket Cons: When filled with shoes, your main compartment room is limited; no exterior water bottle pocket

Peugeot Voyages Laptop backpack tote

Elegant and versatile, the Peugeot Voyages is an elevated option for travelers. The bag's exterior is made from leather and weather-resistant canvas and the interior comes from recycled plastic bottles. Travelers can carry the bag as a backpack or a tote. Plus, the shoulder straps and the back panel are padded for extra comfort. Associate social media manager Kayla Brock was on the hunt for the ideal laptop bag when she came across this. “I found exactly what I was looking for. A backpack that could hold my laptop as well as be an easy travel bag with several pockets for storage to get me through a week or two on the road without the back pain. With its price point, it's definitely worth the investment,” she says.

Pros:  Made from recycled materials, padded straps and back panel Cons: Can easily become bulky

Radley London Dukes Place zip around backpack

This stylish leather bag is ideal for travelers looking for a chic backpack that's equally functional and comfortable. There are two large compartments inside, with two small open pockets in the front compartment and a pocket in the back compartment that zip closed. The double-button clasp over the top handles adds an extra layer of security. Contributor DeAnna Taylor says "it's large enough to fit a light jacket , a pair of flats or sandals, plus any other small items you’ll need for the day’s adventure including lip balm, hand sanitizer, sunscreen , and more."

Pros:  Lightweight, versatile, and durable Cons: Limited colors available

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How To Choose The

Best Travel Backpack

The minimalist's guide to selecting a carry-on backpack for one bag travel.

• 01. Introduction
• 02. Our Picks
• 04. Function
• 05. Aesthetic
• 06. Conclusion

Fitting your life into one bag is no small task. We’re here to help.

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Best Travel Backpacks

Click to learn more about why we love these top picks.

• 9.2/10: Aer Travel Pack 3 (Best value)
• 9.1/10: GORUCK GR2 (40L)
• 8.9/10: Peak Design Travel Backpack 30L
• 8.8/10: TOM BIHN Synik 30
• 8.6/10: Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 30L
• 8.5/10: TOM BIHN Techonaut 30 (Best splurge)
• 8.3/10: Able Carry Max Backpack
• 8.2/10: Osprey Farpoint 40 (Best budget)
• 8.2/10: Minaal Carry-On 3.0 Bag
• 8.0/10: EVERGOODS Civic Travel Bag 35L (CTB35)
• 7.6/10: Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 40L
• 7.5/10: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack

See all reviews: Travel Backpacks

How to Select The Best Backpack for One Bag Travel

There’s something so freeing about traveling with only one bag. All of your important stuff is within arm’s reach, and it forces you to cut down on many of life’s seemingly necessary consumer goods that you can probably live without. With one bag, you easily glide from location to location, always having just enough but never too much.

Choosing the perfect travel backpack for one bag travel can be a challenging endeavor. There are so many brands and models to choose from with varying degrees of durability, price, and try-on-ability (we made this word up for trying something out before buying it online). Add varying views and opinions into the mix from folks with different values, needs, and body types—and you’ve got a veritable clusterf*ck of options to wade through. Whether you’re a new traveler gearing up for your first trip, a digital nomad going through a “sell-all-my-stuff-and-put-it-in-a-backpack” phase, or somewhere in between, it’s essential to have the best travel backpack that works for you.

Here’s the bottom line: There is no “best” backpack that is perfect for every traveler in every scenario. However, we believe everyone can find a pack that’s perfect for their unique needs. In this guide, we’ll break down the factors we think are most important when choosing the ideal one-bag travel backpack for you.

This guide is written and informed by Pack Hacker staff, many of whom are frequent travelers and digital nomads. That means we’re using and testing these products every day to better understand what’s available out there and how each bag may appeal to different types of travelers.

If you’d rather skip all this info and get straight to the backpacks we’ve reviewed, you can take a look at our highest-rated travel backpack list in the next section, or all of our Travel Backpack Reviews . We’re constantly updating this list as we review and rate new bags frequently.

Is It Better To Travel With a Backpack or Suitcase?

We’ve found that backpacks give you much greater mobility. You can breeze through airports. You’ll never stand around a baggage carousel after a long haul again. And as long as your pack is carry-on size compliant, you’ll never lose your luggage, ever. Depending on your travel style and what you’re hauling, it comes down to your personal preference—both roller luggage and backpacks can be good options. In this guide, we’ll focus on travel backpacks for a couple of reasons:

They Feel Freeing

You’ve got both of your hands-free, and you’re not constantly dragging something behind you. No matter what terrain you’re walking on, you’ll never have the annoyance of loud or unsteady wheels behind you from standard travel luggage. Sure, roller bags work like a charm on smooth airport and hotel floors, but how about the winding cobblestone roads of Paris or a sandy beach in Ko Pha Ngan? You can traverse almost any terrain when you’re wearing a backpack.

Best Travel Backpack | Traveling with the Osprey Farpoint 40 in India.

Travel Backpacks are Versatile & Usually Lightweight

If you pack light enough, you can comfortably have all of your belongings with you at once . Did you arrive earlier than your hotel or Airbnb check in? No problem, just take your pack around with you for the day—no need to stop by and drop your luggage off. Versatility at its finest.

We can’t necessarily guarantee the pack will be lightweight if you fill it up with a bunch of heavy stuff (like camera gear), so we made a Travel Camera Guide too.

They Provide Flexibility

You’ll take up less room on the airplane or in public transit. You’ll generally feel more agile vs needing to drag around rolly luggage, with the added benefit of not looking like an out-of-place tourist. It caters to a more adventurous lifestyle by always being ready to go. And, you can easily catch that train that’s about to depart without awkwardly side-running with a roller bag or two.

Utilizing a Backpack in Travel Contexts

In this guide, we’re going for travel versatility. We want you to look good carrying these bags around in an urban environment and have the flexibility to head out on a hike for a couple of days of camping without having your backpack ruined by the elements. If you’ve got a piece of roller luggage, it’s going to be hard to do that spontaneous half-day trek on the trail to the neighboring city you’ve been wanting to check out. Likewise, if you’re going to post up at a coffee shop for a day of office work, you’re going to look out of place with a bulky, multi-colored hiking bag. The packs mentioned in this article will blend into most city environments and are durable enough to withstand the abuse of longer excursions.

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Some of our top-rated bags for your travel backpack consideration.

Why You Should Trust Us

Our team is comprised of seasoned one-bag travelers who have been testing and reviewing travel backpacks since 2017. Each person has experience living out of a single bag while traveling the world, some for years at a time as digital nomads. When testing gear, we evaluate each backpack for a minimum of two weeks, putting it through the wringer on flights and commutes to our Detroit HQ alike. Each bag is then rated using our objective scale that allows us to compare its performance to other bags on the market.

Editor’s Note

June 25, 2024: We narrowed down our list of the best travel backpacks at the top of this guide. It previously included all of our top-rated bags; however, we now include a range of top picks that satisfy different needs. May 22, 2024: We removed the ULA Equipment Dragonfly from our Top Picks, as they released a new version that’s often out of stock and, therefore, isn’t as accessible. April 17, 2024: We considered adding the Tortuga Travel Backpack Lite 40L as one of our top picks, though we ultimately stuck with the Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro since it comes in a smaller size, too.

The Aer Travel Pack 3 takes some of our favorite travel backpack features and puts them into one bag: helpful load lifters, easy-to-engage compression straps, and easy access to different compartments. It has Aer’s sleek signature style and is made with quality materials like CORDURA® ballistic nylon and YKK zippers, which add a ton of durability and make this a reliable bag that can withstand extended travel. In fact, this is one of our highest-rated bags and a Pack Hacker Pick because of how it’s held up on trips across the U.S., Thailand, South Korea, and more.

The organization is streamlined for easy packing, and it even includes a hidden pocket where you can tuck a smart tracker—a great feature for keeping track of your bag if it’s stolen or gets lost in transit. The harness system is super comfortable even when the bag is fully loaded and includes wide, cushioned shoulder straps with keepers to cut down on dangling. We also like that there’s an option to add a hip belt because it helps take a ton of weight off your shoulders when the bag is loaded. If you don’t need as much liter space, we recommend the Aer Travel Pack 3 Small because it takes key features from its bigger sibling and puts them in a smaller package built for shorter trips and smaller frames.

Why We Like It

• It has just-right organization and open space
• Compression straps don’t impede access to the compartments, so it’s easy to grab gear quickly

What You Should Know

• Magnetic compression buckles sometimes come undone on their own
• There isn’t a huge false bottom to the laptop compartment, which impacts tech protection—more of a nitpick, as we’ve found it’s still reliable

If you’re looking for a durable pack that can handle any adventure you throw at it, look no further than the GORUCK GR2. It’s a little on the heavier side (courtesy of the CORDURA® Nylon and beefy YKK zippers), though we think the durability is worth the weight sacrifice. We’ve fit its boxy shape under the seat in front of us on some budget airlines, which is great if you’re trying to avoid fees while you travel the world (who isn’t?). In fact, this is the bag that Pack Hacker’s founder Tom used to travel the world for over 2 years.

Though the organization inside is simple, there’s still plenty of room for packing cubes and pouches. It’s covered in PALS webbing, which we use to attach MOLLE accessories like pouches that we fill with items we want quick access to on the plane or while exploring. The customization options mean you can make the pack fit your specific needs, whether it’s Digital Nomad travel or a weekend fishing trip with your family. Plus, GORUCK has one of the best lifetime warranties in the business and a killer repair program, so if you have any issues, contact their customer service.

• The external fabrics are some of the most durable we’ve seen—it even held up when we dragged it behind a car
• Plenty of PALS webbing, so it’s easy to add modular MOLLE attachments to customize your organization
• The rugged materials and hardware add a lot of weight to the pack
• It has a tactical look and feel that’s hard to disguise if that’s not your style

Since this is a bag from Peak Design, it has some great camera features. There are plenty of attachment points inside and out for your photography gear. However, it’s an excellent travel backpack even if you don’t take a DSLR on every trip, thanks to its clean lines and clever design.

The main compartment has well-structured sides and opens clamshell to make it easy to pack, although we’ve noticed that anything we store on the bottom blocks built-in mesh pockets, so you’ll have to choose between gear storage or smooth access. They’re useful for gear you won’t need until you reach your destination, and side pockets help you get to things that you need as you travel, like your passport. There’s a well-padded sleeve for your laptop, and the front pocket has organizational features for tiny gear, which is great for getting to your essentials while sitting in your airplane seat or waiting at the gate. For times when you’re not packing as much, the compression system does an excellent job at holding gear in place.

If you find that 30L isn’t enough space or you want bring more of your photo kit, we recommend the Peak Design Travel Backpack , which has the same great features and added room for your gear. It expands to 45 liters if needed and has compression snaps to lock it down if you want to use it as a daypack.

• It has a comfortable harness system, with a sternum strap that won’t slip out of place
• Structured sides and clamshell opening create a bucket shape that’s easy to load with gear
• ID pocket on the back panel is easy to overlook, so a stranger may not see it if they find your misplaced bag
• Some main compartment pockets aren’t as accessible as we’d like, which slows you down when searching for gear

Going with a lower-capacity pack reduces size and weight, meaning you can even use it as a daypack once you arrive at your destination. However, that doesn’t mean it has to be short on features. Enter the TOM BIHN Synik 30. It’s a smaller version of the Synapse and features the same top-notch and customizable organization we’re used to seeing from TOM BIHN. That means it has multiple exterior pockets for storing gear and numerous attachment points on the interior for attaching modular pouches. While we like the ballistic nylon options because they’re sleek and durable, you can opt for a different material if you want (TOM BIHN has a ton to choose from).

The style won’t be for everyone, and its round shape can make it more challenging to pack some packing cubes and pouches, causing you to lose out on some storage space in the corners (or lack thereof). However, once you’re used to the internal organization, this is one of the smartest-designed internal layouts we’ve seen in a travel backpack.

• The internal organization is great for both travel and daily carry
• Plenty of options to add modular pouches to customize gear organization
• Has a heritage look that may not be everyone’s taste
• Rounded edges can make it harder to pack with some organizers and pouches

The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 30L has a thickly padded harness system, from the shoulder straps to the hip belt and the back panel, along with vertical height adjustment and load lifters for extra support. All of these features together make for a comfortable carry even when the backpack is completely full. There are plenty of places to pack your gear, including water bottle pockets on each side, a top pocket for small items like keys, a front pocket for wide but flat items, and smaller pockets on the hip belt. You can stash your tech accessories in a well-organized admin panel, and there’s a dedicated laptop compartment as well. It includes a zippered pocket for accessories, which we love for the trips where we don’t need to bring a separate tech pouch.

The large bucket space of the main compartment is simple, with no dividers to get in the way. This means you can pack however you please, whether you load up on packing cubes or fold your clothing into neat piles—though we recommend packing cubes so that things don’t get too jostled. A mesh compartment hinges along the main compartment opening for some built-in segmentation, and you’ll find a similar feature on the Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L . While the 30L is great for smaller frames, we think the larger version is excellent if you want more space to pack. It’s even a Pack Hacker Pick !

• The smaller size means this travel backpack doubles as a daypack if desired
• Simple organization in other pockets while the main compartment is open to organize as you see fit
• Can be slow to access the large mesh pocket in the main compartment because it opens toward the inside of the pack, not the outside
• The harness system can feel a bit overkill for a bag of this size if it’s not full

The Techonaut 30 is a classic example of what makes a TOM BIHN bag great. There are a ton of durable fabric and colorway options—we like the 525D ballistic nylon because of its strength-to-weight ratio, though there are stronger and lighter-weight options available depending on your preferences. Plus, it has clever, functional organization that’s easy to load with all your gear. When we need to keep even more small items in check, we add TOM BIHN pouches to the included O-rings around the bag (we’re partial to the Ghost Whale pouches because of their size, but almost any will work).

You can carry the Techonaut 30 like a backpack, briefcase, or messenger bag, although you’ll have to get a separate strap to carry it as a messenger. We prefer backpack mode because the back panel is supportive even when all 30 liters are fully packed.

Inside, it has a variety of pockets, including an integrated water bottle pocket and two quick-grab pockets, which work in either horizontal or vertical orientation, meaning you can store gear based on the way you’re carrying the bag. Briefcase mode? Use the top pockets. Backpack? Go for the sides. However, if you need to carry some hydration, we find that the integrated water bottle pocket can cut into the main compartment, so you’ll have to trade some storage space. Though the main and bottom compartments are separated, you can expand the former via a collapsible floor, which is handy if you need a bit of flexibility with the available space. This is great if you like traveling with shoes but don’t want to buy a separate shoe pouch.

• Bottom pocket unzips to merge with the main compartment for even more storage space
• It can be carried three ways, and all of them are comfortable
• It’s tricky to see inside the top pocket because of its sideways opening
• The dedicated shoe pocket struggles to fit large shoes, which isn’t ideal for those with large feet

The VX21 X-Pac material on the Able Carry Max Backpack gives it a sporty look that we like, and there’s also 1000D CORDURA® nylon on the underside for durability. You won’t have to worry about the sturdiness of this bag, as it’s well-constructed, with reinforced stitching in key areas. There is plenty of room in the laptop compartment for up to a 17-inch computer and organization for your tech gear. Loops and strips of webbing around the bag give you the flexibility to pack it however you wish, and there are two quick-grab pockets for gear you want to get at as you travel. You can even get a third quick-access spot if you use the internal bottle pocket instead of the one outside the bag for hydration.

The Max Backpack is really comfortable to carry and easy to adjust. The shoulder straps have dense padding and breathable mesh undersides, with X-Pac on top for durability and style. While the tablet pocket is a bit shallow, we don’t have too many problems during regular use.

• It’s easy to customize organization thanks to webbing and loop attachment points
• The durable fabrics are held together with equally-sturdy stitching
• The X-Pac material may not suit everyone, though you can always opt for CORDURA® nylon
• A rear pocket is a bit narrow and tricky to access

This durable bag is made with recycled and bluesign® approved polyester and a PFAS-free DWR coating, which is great if you’re an eco-friendly traveler. It has a bit of an outdoorsy look, which is to be expected from Osprey. However, the external storage is hard to beat if you’re the adventurous type. A large front stash pocket holds a water bottle or damp gear like a rain jacket or towel, and there’s also a decent-sized top pocket for smaller accessories. We like that it’s big enough to tuck your 3-1-1 bag inside to keep it within reach through the security line at the airport. The main compartment opens fully clamshell, and is easy to pack since you can see all the space at once. A couple of mesh pockets inside help organize your gear, and compression straps hold clothing or packing cubes in place as you travel. The large laptop compartment is accessible from the outside of the bag, so you can get some work done as you wait for the plane to board.

What’s really great, though, is how comfortable you’ll be while carrying this bag. The breathable mesh back panel keeps things airy, and the harness shifts higher or lower so you can adjust it to your height and torso length. If you have a more petite frame but want to carry the same amount of gear, try the Osprey Fairview 40. As opposed to coming straight over your shoulders, these curve in and around, making it easier to carry for more petite users of any gender.

• The harness system is comfy even when the pack is fully loaded
• An ample-sized main compartment makes this a great pick for one bag travel
• You can’t remove the bulky hip belt even if you don’t need it
• There aren’t any dedicated bottle pockets, and the front pocket can be tight for larger bottles

The 35L Minaal Carry-On 3.0 for one bag travel is aesthetically sleek and has smart features to improve quality of life on your trip. If you carry a lot of tech, you may appreciate that the laptop compartment lays completely flat, making it easy to load and access on the go. It has a suspended laptop sleeve that you can adjust to different sizes, so your 13-inch MacBook Air isn’t drowning in a pocket designed for a big gaming computer. Plus, the shoulder straps hide away behind a zipping panel, which we find makes it easy to slide this backpack into an overhead bin.

The main compartment opens clamshell for easy packing and includes some built-in organization. However, unlike most other backpacks, you load the bag into the “scoop” section (the front of the bag) instead of the back. This takes a little getting used to, though it’s easy to use once you do. While we recommend taking advantage of packing cubes for most of your gear, there is a large mesh pocket at the top, along with a nylon pouch below it where you can pack shoes. Two external pockets give you quick access to your wallet, phone, and small accessories, and there’s also a security pocket behind the back panel for your passport. Just be careful when using the water bottle pocket, as they can slip out even when the bungee is tight.

• It’s great to be able to securely carry devices of different sizes in the adjustable sleeve
• Excellent accessibility since both compartments open fully clamshell
• You have to pack it “scoop side down,” which can get unwieldy without packing cubes
• The bungee designed to hold a bottle in place doesn’t always work as intended, and some bottles slip out

Some packs are designed with a specific use in mind, and others are designed to be as versatile as possible. Every once in a while, you’ll come across a bag that does both (and does it well). The features on EVERGOODS’ Civic Travel Bag 35L, or CTB35, make it one of the most versatile travel backpacks we’ve seen on the market.

There’s plenty of organization to choose from without going over the top, meaning there’s a spot for large and small gear alike. The main compartment has ample space, so we’re able to fit everything from a camera cube to bulky shoes inside, and it even has a few zippered pockets for small items like tech. As for external storage, there’s a built-in yoke pocket on the top and a vertical zippered pocket on the front that we like to use as a dump pocket for our phone, wallet, keys, and more while going through airport security. Plus, there’s an easily accessible laptop compartment if you work on the go. The harness system is contoured nicely, which makes this backpack incredibly comfortable to wear even when fully packed, so we have no problem carrying it all day long.

We like the 35-liter option because it’s big enough to work for long trips. However, if you’re into the organization but want something smaller, it also comes in a 26-liter size (which we like equally as much).

• The harness is well-padded and comfortable even when the pack is completely full of gear
• It strikes a balance between built-in organization and empty space, so you’re not pigeonholed into packing your gear a specific way
• Since the organization is so minimal, you’ll need to find a way to manage things like clothing—we recommend utilizing packing cubes
• We find it difficult to stow the hip belt without it twisting a bit, so it takes a bit of finesse to get right

We like the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag so much that we chose it for the first iteration of our Vacation Packing List . The large size makes sense because you can fit more gear; however, there’s a smaller 30-liter size that we find is better for smaller-framed folks and people who want to save space. Why do we like it so much? We’re happy you asked!

These packs have built-in organization options inside the main compartment, including a divider with zippered pockets that we use to stow smaller items like socks and underwear, but it’s also great for tech or miscellaneous gear. There’s also a large second compartment, a dedicated laptop compartment, and a quick-grab pocket on the front that’s handy for gear you’ll need throughout the day. While all of this organization is great, it’s worth mentioning that all of these zippered pockets are pretty shallow, so you’ll have to pack strategically to ensure your bag will zip up when everything is loaded in. On the plus side, the liner is brightly colored, which makes finding your stuff that much easier!

If all of that space isn’t enough for you, there are attachment points on the front of the bag where you can attach an additional daypack. The harness system isn’t our favorite because there’s no frame sheet to add structure and it can feel pretty heavy when it’s all packed out, but the hip belt does a good job taking some weight off your shoulders.

• There’s ample organization to segment your gear, making it easier to find
• The bright liner material adds a ton of visibility when we’re looking for our stuff in the multiple zippered pockets
• Can be difficult to slide a laptop into the dedicated compartment when the bag is fully packed because of how it starts to bulge
• It’s not the most comfortable bag we’ve worn for extended periods because the back panel lacks significant structure

While some travel backpacks fit best in an urban setting, the Allpa 35L Travel Pack works as a hiking or work bag as well as a travel pack. However, just because it can serve other purposes doesn’t mean it’s lacking in the travel department. It has a refined design and ample space that make it easy to pack for vacation, with mesh dividers and organizers inside to help you keep your gear sorted. While the exterior materials aren’t very structured, you’re unlikely to reach for this large of a bag unless you plan to pack it out, so it’s not always noticeable. The polyester is coated with TPU for water resistance, so your gear is safe as you walk in nearly any weather.

If you’re getting started on your journey into one bag travel, you can get the Allpa with an accessory bundle that includes mesh laundry bags, a nylon shoe bag, and a snap-on mesh water bottle sleeve. You also have the option to add-on Cotopaxi’s Batac Daypack, so you can have a complete travel system ready with just one click. And in case you needed another reason to consider Cotopaxi, you should know that their bags are made in the Philippines in a factory committed to fair labor and environmentally-sound practices, so you can feel good about your purchase, too.

• It’s a ruggedly durable backpack if you’re a more adventurous traveler
• The bag feels roomy and conveniently-placed pockets for small gear storage
• Hip belt isn’t removable if it doesn’t fit, and the pockets often feel too snug when wearing the bag
• It’s on the heavy side for its size

Others We Considered

Though it’s a great size for those who want a carry on backpack that’s small enough to be a personal item, we ultimately decided against the CabinZero Military Backpack 28L because it gets uncomfortable to carry when it’s packed to the brim. Since it’s so small, that’s pretty easy to do.

Decisions, decisions… Navigating the not-so-clear world of travel packs.

Video Guide Part 2: Form

Feel free to watch this guide section in video format. We’ll keep the written content on this page up to date.

Be sure to subscribe to Pack Hacker on YouTube and never miss a video. We also have these videos in a series playlist format on YouTube so you can watch them easier.

Best Backpack Size & Weight for Carry-On Air Travel

We favor smaller bags that fit in the overhead bin. Yes, it can be a challenge to fit your entire life into a 40L bag, but wow, is it worth it!. Trust us—you can fit your entire life into an 18L backpack if you’re disciplined, and we highly recommend staying under 50L for one bag travel. Life is just easier with a smaller & lighter backpack. If you want to cheat a bit and get some extra space, you can also go the sling bag on the front, backpack on the back route.

Airlines can get pretty stingy around the amount of weight you can bring on board. It’s essential to make sure your backpack itself isn’t too heavy, or you won’t be able to fit in as much clothing and other travel gear. We’re all for less clothing and gear, but we are not for getting hit with extra fees if your carry-on is overweight. Starting out with a bag that’s already too heavy before you’ve packed it is just setting yourself up for failure! We calculate a carry-on compliance score for every travel backpack reviewed on our site using its dimensions and data we collect from most airlines worldwide.

True Volume

It’s easy to get caught up in all this talk around liters of a backpack. There’s really no “industry standard” around this, and the liter size of a pack can vary from brand to brand. What’s more important is the “True Volume” of a backpack and how usable the space is. Some weird, trapezoid-shaped backpack will certainly be more of a challenge than something with a larger, rectangular compartment. The thickness and flexibility of the material matter as well. A thin, strong material will leave you with more space inside of a backpack than something with thick padding in the liner. However, a rigid material—Dyneema, for instance—doesn’t have much additional flex and isn’t very forgiving when you’re trying to pack your bag to the brim. The efficiency of space can make or break the usefulness of a pack.

Pack’s Exterior Profile

The slimness of a pack can help out quite a bit. Not only does it seem less heavy because the weight is close to your back, but it has the added benefit of giving you a smaller, slimmer form factor. With this, you won’t be taking up too much room on public transit or smacking people in the face when you’re boarding the airplane—it’ll be a better experience for you and everyone around you.

Max Legal Carry-On

Otherwise known as “MLC,” Max Legal Carry-On size covers the largest acceptable backpack size for carrying on most airlines. Make sure to check with your airline before arriving at the airport, though—size limits can vary based on the airline you’re flying with.

The Peak Design Travel Backpack is a well-executed travel bag from a company with an excellent track-record of bringing innovative and unique designs to the backpack world. This maximum legal carry-on can easily handle one bag travel, photography, or digital nomading with ease—and it will be a joy to use for any of those activities.

Top-loading vs Panel-loading (Clamshell) Backpacks

There’s a big debate around clamshell and top-loading packs. We’re personally a fan of clamshell for one-bag travel, as it gives you more open space to work with. Clamshell functions more like a suitcase and opens literally like a clam. You can easily open it up flat and see everything inside, so it tends to be easier to organize all your travel gear.

The Able Carry Max Backpack is a clamshell-style backpack that opens to give you easy access to a spacious main compartment—this works great for packing cubes or rolled up clothing—whichever you prefer! Also, it’s got a large but low-profile water bottle pocket.

Top-loading packs are great if you’re on a long, multi-day trek or participating in other outdoor-focused activities as there’s no main zipper that can fail you (which could be catastrophic if you’re halfway up Mt. Everest).

The Thule Subterra 34L is a top-loading backpack with a roll top opening. A top loader’s usual pitfalls are fixed by an easy to access side zip that allows entry to the main compartment. This zip comes in handy when you don’t have time to mess around with the roll top, or you want to grab something located at the bottom of the bag.

Weather Resistance

Best Travel Backpack | The GORUCK GR2 features “weather resistance” but it’s not “waterproof.”

Weather resistance is another key component to consider for one bag travel. With all your tech gear and expensive possessions in your pack, you don’t want it to get wet. We look for packs with some great weather resistance that’ll easily get you through light rain and ideally through 20 minutes of a monsoon in Southeast Asia. There’s a big difference between waterproof and water-resistant bags. We’re mainly focused on the latter, as this will be plenty in most situations. Sure, waterproof is more secure, but unless you’re leaving your pack outside in a torrential downpour for hours on end or plan to go snorkeling with your laptop on your back, there’s no need for that extra tech.

The Mission Workshop Fitzroy VX utilizes weatherproof materials and weather-resistant zippers. We’ve found it to hold up decently in a downpour. Even if you’re caught in a pretty torrential rainstorm, you should be okay with the PET waterproof membrane.

Got something that needs some additional weatherproofing? Consider picking up a DAKA Pouch . It’ll give your valuables that extra layer of protection without requiring you to purchase an entirely waterproof bag—plus, these pouches double as organizers, separating your precious gear from the rest of your loadout with some additional protection to boot. It’s a win-win.

Durability and Quality

Whether you’re traveling for a week, a month, or a year plus, your backpack is pretty much your home, so you don’t want it to break. Take it from us—the last thing you want is to find out that you lost your phone charger because your zipper broke during the journey to your next accommodation. Investing in a good backpack will prevent loss and damage to your gear, and higher quality products will last for several years. It can be a challenge to tell if a backpack is durable right out of the box, which is why we test bags as much as possible to notice any faults. Higher durability usually means higher weight, but not always. Here are a couple of key considerations we’ve found when it comes to durability.

When it comes to durability, the Topo Designs Travel Bag 40L doesn’t mess around. The 1000D nylon, beefy YKK #10 zippers, and simplistic design all come together to create a bag that won’t let you down.

YKK zippers are some of the best around, so naturally, the best travel backpack brands tend to use them. They’re super strong and have different weights depending on the area of the pack they’re used. A YKK #10 will keep a main compartment secure, whereas a YKK #5 may be suited for smaller side pockets that don’t receive as much use or tension.

YKK is obsessed with quality, and they do everything in-house. They smelt their own brass, forge their own zipper teeth, and even make the machines that make their zippers and the cardboard boxes they ship in! Needless to say, you probably won’t end up with any broken zippers with YKK on your side. YKK zippers also account for about half of all zippers in the world, so that says something. Although less popular, RiRi zippers are pretty great too. Both RiRi and YKK are superior to any other zipper made in-house by a bag manufacturer, and Zoom Zippers are climbing up on that list as well, though we still find intermittent issues with them.

Backpack Fabric and Material

There are a ton of fabrics and materials out there, too. When looking at fabrics, you’ll often see a number followed by a D—250D, 950D, 1500D, etc. The D stands for denier, a term used to measure the fabric’s thickness and weight—specifically the yarn. The formal definition is the mass (in grams) per 9,000 meters of thread, so lightweight fabrics (like silk) have a very low denier, while heavier fabrics have a higher denier. When it comes to backpacks, a higher denier is not necessarily better. In general, a higher denier will be more durable (depending on the fabric & weave) but also heavier. While the denier can tell you the weight and thickness of a material, the type of material, weave, and manufacturing involved will ultimately tell you more about its strength and durability. Here are some materials you’ll come across when selecting your pack, along with the pros and cons of each one.

Ripstop Nylon

Pretty close in property to standard nylon, “ripstop” nylon has a unique square weave that prevents further tearing from happening after a puncture. It has an incredibly high strength-to-weight ratio, and, as the name implies, it is highly resistant to rips and tears. The reason why it’s so strong is that additional fibers are sewn into the weave. Ripstop Nylon was developed in World War II as a more robust alternative to silk parachutes and is currently used in ejector seat parachutes for fighter pilots!

Ballistic Nylon

Ballistic Nylon refers to any nylon fabric with a “ballistic weave,” a variation on the simple basketweave. This gives it excellent tensile and tear strength—especially when layered—and makes it heavier than a lot of other materials. Keep in mind that ballistic nylon almost exclusively comes in black. Why is it called ballistic? It was initially used on flak jackets for World War II airmen to protect them from artillery-shell and bullet fragmentations. PSA: We do not recommend the use of backpacks for protection in war zones.

CORDURA® Nylon

CORDURA® is not a fabric in and of itself—it is a brand covering a whole host of different materials, from cotton to nylon to polyester. What they do is take fabric from various mills, inspect it to make sure it’s up to their standards, and then slap that CORDURA® tag on it. Yes, it’s a bit deceiving, but they do put out some high-quality stuff. You’ll mostly always see a “®” next to “CORDURA” (in all caps) because #branding and #lawyers.

Kodra Nylon

Kodra is virtually synonymous with CORDURA® but made in Korea. Peak Design opted for this in V1 of their Everyday Backpack.

Polyester is one of the most common fabrics on the planet. It’s made from plastic fibers, and you can find it pretty much everywhere—in clothing, pillows, seat belts, upholstery, rope, the list goes on… Oh, and backpacks. Polyester is not the most durable fabric, so you’ll usually find it on lower-end packs (think of those classic Jansport backpacks everyone had in high school). It’s really not the most suitable choice for a travel pack—as it just won’t hold up through the years. Besides lacking in durability, polyester is also fairly heavy compared to other fabrics like nylon. If you’re looking for a low-budget day pack, polyester is fine. If you’re looking for something more serious, stay away from it.

Polypropylene

Polypropylene is a polymer that is used to make fabrics. This stuff is seriously everywhere—it is the world’s second most widely produced synthetic plastic! It’s used to make ropes, carpets, labels, plastic lids on tic-tac containers, plastic chairs, long underwear…basically, if you see something made of plastic, there’s a solid chance there’s some polypropylene in it. You’ll find it mostly in minor backpack components, but it’s also used to make drawstring bags and totes like the ones that are handed out for free at a college fair or festival. Polypropylene fabric has a few things going for it. It’s cheap, it’s a good insulator because it doesn’t transfer heat very well, and it won’t absorb water since it’s hydrophobic. The major problem with polypropylene is that it is not very UV resistant. If it’s repeatedly exposed to sunlight, the fabric will fade and break down over time. This is not great for backpacks. You may, however, see polypropylene used as a liner on the inside of some packs as it won’t be affected by UV light and adds some additional protection.

You could say that canvas is the OG backpack material. Back in the day, canvas was just about the only thing you would use for a “backpack,” outside of maybe a burlap sack thrown over your shoulder. In World War II, GI’s carried all their equipment around in canvas packs and slept in canvas tents. Canvas very thick and sturdy and was historically made from cotton, linen, or hemp coated in wax for waterproofing. Today, canvas tends to be made from things like nylon and polyester. Most modern backpack companies shy away from canvas because it’s usually heavy, not overly water-resistant, and easily damaged by abrasion. If you’re looking for a canvas one-bag travel pack, you’re not going to find much out there. However, if you want the nostalgia factor, you can still find a bespoke canvas bag to satisfy that.

We may need to scrap our statement on canvas because leather is arguably as OG as it gets. Its use has been traced back as far as Ancient Greece and Rome! Like canvas, you’re not going to see many travel packs made of leather. While a leather bag can make for an excellent, stylish daypack, it’s not ideal for a long-term travel pack, mainly because of its weight. There is also a lot of potential care involved. Between protective oils and various cleaning techniques, it can be a hassle to deal with if you’re on the move. There are three grades of leather—genuine, top-grain, and full-grain.

Contrary to popular belief, genuine is the lowest grade of leather while full-grain is the highest. Full-grain is used for heavy-duty use-cases like weapon holsters and work belts, so if you’re dead set on a leather pack, we’d recommend looking for full-grain leather. Ideally, you’ll want to find something thin enough to not be overly heavy while still thick enough to ensure durability.

The actual material is called ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene… but most know it as sailcloth (yep, the same material used on a sailboat). A relatively rare material for backpacks, brands like Tortuga have taken advantage of sailcloth due to its lightweight and water-resistant properties. It is by far the most lightweight and waterproof material on our list (no need for DWR or liners), but it does have some drawbacks. It’s stiff and crinkly with zero stretch, which can cause problems if you’re trying to utilize every nook and cranny of your pack. It isn’t quite as indestructible as some other materials listed, but it’s reasonably durable and can be patched. It also tends to be one of the most expensive backpack materials out there.

Dyneema® Composite Fabric

In May 2015, Dyneema purchased Cubic Tech, the creator and manufacturer of Cuben Fiber, and rebranded it as Dyneema® Composite Fabrics. So, Dyneema® Composite Fabrics = Cuben Fiber. This stuff was initially designed for high-tech sails on racing yachts because it is ridiculously light and robust. As such, it has been adopted wholeheartedly by the ultralight backpacking community. It’s sort of like the carbon fiber of the backpack world—high-tech, super strong, super light, and…super expensive. While Dyneema® Composite Fabric is popular within the ultralight backpacking community, it has yet to become commonplace in the one-bag travel scene. That being said, if you do see Dyneema® Composite Fabric, you should know that you’re getting some of the best stuff around.

Thermoplastic polyurethane —TPU for short—is a polymer used to add strength to a material, either through a manufacturing process or coating. You’ll recognize it on products like inflatable rafts, phone cases, wire cables, and footwear. Think stuff that needs to be as durable as possible to avoid things going south for the user. It easily sheds water and oil, resists abrasions, and won’t crack in high or low temps, making it ideal for frequent outdoor use. Unlike polypropylene, TPU is UV-resistant and won’t be subjected to the same amount of fading over time. If you’re the type of traveler who wants extra peace of mind on the go, you’ll want to keep an eye out for TPU because of the extra strength it adds to a pack, but we wouldn’t consider a lack of TPU a deal-breaker.

X-Pac is not so much a fabric as it is a bunch of fabrics smooshed together. With the help of lamination technology, it combines complementary materials to make an overall higher-performing product. Though there are variations in denier and waterproofing, it’s most commonly made up of a nylon face for durability, polyester mesh for strength, and waterproof film that won’t disappear over time. Like Dyneema® Composite Fabrics, it was inspired by the efficiency of sailcloth but is a less costly option that provides a similar level of ultralight performance. It holds its shape over time, won’t fade with UV exposure, and easily sheds moisture, making it great for outdoor enthusiasts who hike and bike with their pack on the regular. However, it may be a bit overkill for casual travelers unless you’re looking for a backpack for epic mountain climbing adventures.

Ultimately, the production process and design will dictate whether your gear will stay together. If a bag is made with 1000D CORDURA®, but it doesn’t have good zippers to match, it doesn’t matter how good the fabric is. Look for brands that proudly back their product with generous warranties, like GORUCK and their “SCARS warranty” or Patagonia and their “Ironclad Guarantee.” These brands know they make quality products, so they’re happy to back it up. If a brand offers no warranty or a short warranty, there’s probably a financial reason for that, and the quality may not be as high. We’re all about buying quality pieces that last versus something that’s going to need repair or replacement year after year.

Whether you’re hopping on a plane or navigating city streets, you need a backpack that can hold up.

Video Guide Part 3: Function

Best Backpack for Comfortable Wear and Extended Travel

Comfort is a big deal when it comes to one-bag travel—especially if you plan to carry the bag around with you for hours on end. You’ll want a high-quality harness that works with the shape of your body. When selecting a bag, it’s crucial to take your height and body type into consideration. Although this matters more for hiking backpacks where you’re carrying a ton of gear, it’s less important for smaller, one-bag travel packs. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t think about it before you make a purchase. A backpack suited for someone that’s 6’5″ and 250 pounds probably isn’t the best travel backpack for someone that’s 5’3″ and 140 pounds. Buying something that doesn’t fit your frame correctly will make for some seriously uncomfortable travel.

Men’s Focused Fit Vs Women’s Focused Fit

Some backpacks are only available with a “one size fits all” harness system, but there is an ever-increasing number of women’s focused fit and men’s focused fit travel backpacks on the market. For example, the Thule Landmark 40L , REI Ruckpack 40 , and Deuter AViANT Carry On Pro 36 are all available in two different fits. The differences are subtle but have a big impact on how comfortable the harness system is on your frame. Compared to a men’s focused fit, a women’s focused fit backpack will typically feature:

• Smaller hip belt with a more pronounced curve

Backpack Straps

You’ll want to look for bags with high-quality straps that work for your body type. A mismatch here could lead to an uncomfortable carry, even with only a little weight inside.

Even though the GlobeRider45 has the functionality and looks of a travel backpack, it carries more like a daypack. Its shoulder straps feature dense padding that curves and falls naturally to the body. A relatively high top area does give it a very slight hiking backpack feel, but it’s an overall tameable bag to travel with, considering its 45-liter storage capacity.

The thickness of straps doesn’t necessarily matter. Thinner straps that use high-quality foam may be more comfortable than thicker, bulkier straps.

If you’re concerned with weight, look for bags that include load lifters – these are the adjusters that appear at the top of the straps. This concept is borrowed from larger hiking backpacks and does wonders for fitting the bag well to your back with different loads.

Some straps swivel and pivot to cater to different shoulder widths and make it easier to quickly flip the pack around to access the goods you’ve got inside.

We’re middle-of-the-road on hip belts for one-bag travel backpacks. They can help a ton if you’ve got a heavier load or plan to carry your pack for long stretches but aren’t necessary if you pack minimally in a smaller pack.

A good hip belt should be comfortable and secure without becoming too cumbersome. There are few things worse than hitting people with your bulky hip belt while walking down the aisle of an airplane. We’d recommend taking a look at travel backpacks that feature a detachable or hideable hip belt, so you don’t have to use it when you don’t need to.

Sternum Straps

Nearly all travel backpacks include a sternum strap. They’re designed to distribute some weight away from your shoulders and secure the shoulder straps across your chest.

While sternum straps are all pretty similar across the board, there are a couple of things we’d recommend looking out for. First, some will feature an elasticated portion that allows the strap to flex with your body as you walk. We’re big fans of these. Second, some sternum straps can be detached, leaving them vulnerable to falling off when not in use. We’re not kidding; this has happened to us on multiple occasions. Not good, especially when you’re traveling halfway around the world in remote locations! A detachable sternum strap is great when you don’t always need to use one, and it makes adjusting the height easy. Just make sure it’s secure and adequately anchored to the shoulder straps.

A well-designed back panel can make things much more comfortable. Although it’s hard to avoid the old sweaty back with more extended periods of wear in hotter climates, well-ventilated mesh and foam can help with this. A curved frame can help with ergonomics and ventilation, but we don’t see this on many travel-focused backpacks. Sometimes, it seems like overkill.

How Do you Pack the Thing?

With all these fancy features, it’s essential to consider how you should use them and how you pack your bag. Generally speaking, you want to load the heaviest items closest to your back. This’ll ensure the heaviest bits of your bag are the closest to your center of gravity, pulling you down less from the back of the bag.

Best Travel Backpack | Configuring a backpack.

If you’ve got all the features mentioned above, you want to strap and tighten your hip belt first, then adjust the shoulder straps, then tighten the load lifter straps (the straps on top) to a 45° angle, and finally, adjust and tighten the sternum strap.

The Heimplanet Travel Pack 34L (V2) has a horseshoe zipper at the top front of the pack, which opens up to allow you to reach into the main compartment and grab essential items rather than opening up the full clamshell. It also features liter independent compartments and pockets, which are great for packing to the absolute limits. Check out the smaller 28L version, too.

Modular Backpack System

If you want more options for customization, check out modular gear. To put it simply, this is gear that brands design to work with their bags. They allow you to make a bag suit your preferences, adding and swapping parts as needed instead of trying to fit your gear into the organization already installed in your pack. Anyone who uses a bag with PALS webbing, for example, will tell you how convenient it is to have loops ready where they can stick MOLLE accessories. Whereas PALS webbing and MOLLE attachments are one of the better-known standards out there, brand-specific modularity and attachment systems also exist.

In fact, some brands, like ALPAKA , TOM BIHN , Boundary Supply , and Roark , are known for it. We like to count how many O-rings we can find on each TOM BIHN bag we buy because that’s where we can clip the brand’s key leashes, admin pouches, packing cubes, and more.

These great for carrying tiny travel accessories wherever we go. Sizes range from Super Mini, which can hold AirPods, chapstick, and similarly sized items, to A5, which is big enough for an A5-size notebook and pens. They’re made from scrap fabric, so you can feel good about saving them from the cutting room floor. They clip to the O-rings in a TOM BIHN bag or a loop on another backpack to save you from digging for small gear.

ALPAKA’s HUB Ecosystem lets you swap your keys, sanitizer, card holder, and more between your bags. Pull the Hypalon tab to release the magnetic fastener to swap your gear, then attach it to different points throughout their bags or the HUB ModPanel hanging in your house. Then you’ll always be able to find your keys.

The Prima System includes a 30L travel backpack, the Fieldspace admin panel, and Verge Camera Case. The Fieldspace holds a tablet or small laptop, plus small accessories, docking to the laptop compartment with a magnet, so it’s removable if you don’t need it. The camera case is also fully customizable and can sit inside the pack, connect to its exterior, or be carried separately.

Organization: Multiple Travel-Focused Features or One Big Compartment?

Some backpacks take the approach of having a massive inner compartment with no organization. This is great if you’re planning on using some packing cubes or compression sacks, but not so great if you want a little more internal organization out of the box. More things to consider: is there a dedicated place to put a pen or two for those pesky customs forms? Is it easy to grab? How about a dedicated laptop compartment (or, for that matter, a dedicated laptop bag )?

This iteration of Tortuga’s travel backpack design gives more control to the user. It has fewer organization options than its predecessors, but the extra space and weight savings can be better used for packing cubes and organizers. Those already invested in such accessories will find the wide and spacious main compartment easy to fill and navigate.

Packing Cubes

Packing cubes can be a great addition to your luggage regardless of whether the bag is one massive compartment or has a couple of smaller pockets inside. Packing cubes allow you to organize clothing between type, outfits, clean or dirty, and much more.

The Osprey Transporter Global Carry-On’s size and shape make it easy to pack with cubes. Plus, the light gray interior makes it easy to find your gear.

Compression and Expandability

If you’re going with one bag, versatility is essential. Ideally, your pack will cater to different amounts of items that are packed in the bag.

Some packs even offer detachable daypacks, but they tend to be slightly larger in liters to justify the additional use of materials (extra zippers and extra straps.) If you’re looking for a small travel daypack , consider some highly compressible bags from Matador . There won’t be any padding on these, but you could also pair these with a padded field pocket from GORUCK or a padded laptop compartment if you want to cafe-hop and work for the day.

If you are looking for a more padded daypack, a Mystery Ranch In and Out Packable Daypack , or something like a Fjallraven Kanken 13″ Laptop Backpack could work. At the end of the day, you’re packing another set of straps, padding, and zippers—all space and weight that’s being subtracted from your main pack.

We like sticking to one bag whenever possible, and there are some bags out there with the right size and look that can be used as a daypack and for one bag travel.

The Thule Aion 28L Backpack expands to 32L when you need more space for a trip. Use the extra room when you’re traveling, then empty it and compress it back down when you arrive at your destination to have a slimmer bag that can be used as a daypack while walking around.

Another great option is the Osprey Farpoint 40 , mentioned above. One of our team members has utilized the compression straps to carry his tripod while traveling to numerous countries.

Security Backpacks

Be on the lookout for packs with great security features. Are the zippers lockable with TSA approved locks? Are there separate secret security compartments to place your passport and other valuables in hard-to-reach places? Is it made of a solid material to prevent the quick slash-and-grab? Are the outer pockets minimized to make it hard for a thief to unzip and grab what they want quickly?

A lot of safety when traveling comes down to common sense and your own self-awareness, but there are a couple of pack features that can make your trips a little bit safer.

Lockable Zippers & Anti-Theft Backpacks

Some packs offer lockable zippers, or special looped zipper pulls that can be configured to deter thieves. Locking the zippers on your pack won’t turn it into an anti-theft backpack—someone can still take it or cut through the fabric—but it can help stop wrongdoers from quickly unzipping your bag for a quick-grab, or make them move to the next easily accessible bag on a train or bus. No backpack is impenetrable, though, and some of these features on backpacks can be gimmicky—included just so the purchaser has some peace of mind—even if the benefit isn’t that great. Peak Design’s security features (example below) and PacSafe’s Tough Zip put a lot of emphasis on that extra layer of security.

The zippers on the Peak Design Travel Backpack come with multiple locking features. This won’t necessarily deter all theft, but it’ll stop anyone from the old unzip & grab trick, and it won’t be against TSA Guidelines.

Anti-Theft Backpack Materials

Some bags offer more robust fabric that naturally enforces the bag. As we mentioned before, materials like Ballistic Nylon, CORDURA®, and others are super helpful with this. Some companies even include special mesh wiring, like Pacsafe’s eXomesh®, that almost theft-proof your backpack, allowing you to lock it to a fixed object for added security. EXomesh® is either lined inside the fabric and can also be purchased externally with other backpacks. For the type of traveling we do, we think this is a little paranoid and adds some weight plus another thing to carry. But depending on your situation, it could be helpful. Strolling through Tokyo? Probably not necessary. Heading to Barcelona for the first time? Yeah, we’ll take that extra layer of security.

RFID Blockers (Identity Theft-Proof Backpacks)

We feel that having a bunch of RFID-blocking tech covering an entire backpack is overkill. Sure, it’ll stop folks from electronically scanning your passport, but If you’re concerned with this, you could get a special wallet or wrap your passport & cards in aluminum foil. Let’s face it—it’s much less effort for a thief to physically grab what they want from you than dicking around with RFID technology. But again, whatever helps you sleep at night. If it’s a 100% secure backpack you seek, we’re not going to stop you.

If you’re looking for a secure travel pack, the Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP35 offers some great features for exactly that. From the eXomesh® slash-proof material to the secure zippers and RFID secure pockets, there is some great thinking that went into this pack along with some solid materials.

You know what they say—“It’s not how you feel, it’s how you look.” Or something like that...

Video Guide Part 4: Aesthetic

Finding the Best Travel Backpack Style For You

At the end of the day, the look and feel of a travel backpack should be right for you and your tastes. There are many things to consider as far as aesthetics go we’ll pull in here for consideration. Stylish “urban travel” backpacks became a lot more popular within the last couple of years, and that’s the look we prefer. Gone are the days of international travel with a big blaze-orange hiking backpack. Those certainly have a utility, but that utility is in the wilderness. Here are a couple of overall style points for your consideration:

Minimalist Travel Backpacks

When you’re in a new country, think a bit about how you want to be perceived. If you’re heading to a more crowded or dicey area, nothing screams tourist like having a large, colorful backpack while looking up at tall buildings or a landmark in awe. It’s easier to keep a low profile and blend in a little if you’re not carrying around a monstrosity of a bag that acts as an advertisement for thieves and wrongdoers looking to target travelers for their own gain. It’s an added bonus if you can roll into a meeting wearing one of these things. As one-bag travel has become increasingly popular in recent years, we’re seeing many solid urban packs coming out that are built specifically with one-bag travel in mind.

• Minaal Carry-On 3.0

Tacticool Backpacks

There are a ton of great, high-quality bags out there that are made to military spec. There’s some really great utility to things like MOLLE for customizing your pack and including other accessories on your bag, and the stronger materials make for highly durable bags. Keep in mind that some folks may perceive you as being in the military if your bag has too much digi camo going on. It’s one thing if the pack is all black & subdued, but another if it’s camo and filled with patches. If this is your look, go for it, but this type of pack might also bring about some “unwanted attention” in certain parts of the world.

• Mission Workshop Radian

Outdoor & Hiking Backpacks

Think sportier packs with lots of pockets, brighter colors, and louder material. For a long time, outdoor backpacks were the only option for long-term one-bag travelers. They tend to be bulky and are built to carry big, heavy loads over long distances. This typically means lots of straps and a tall pack that will peek up over your head. Great for an extended camping excursion, not so great for a trip through the airport or a newly-discovered city square. They also tend to scream “TOURIST.” No one casually walks around with a giant hiking backpack.

• Gregory Zulu 40

Backpacker Backpacks

If it’s not already obvious, the “Backpacker Backpack” is designed specifically for backpacking around the world. Typically from manufacturers that also make outdoor and hiking backpacks, this is the go-to style for anyone on a gap year looking to tick off as many countries in Southeast Asia as possible. And because of that, they’re some of the most popular bags on the market today. Sure, you’ll still look like a tourist—albeit not as much as you would wearing a hiking backpack—but that’s fine because that’s exactly what you’re doing.

• Gregory Detour 40

Heritage Backpacks

These bags are engineered with a classic look in mind. Most will be some variation of the one-compartment style with leather straps, subdued colors, and some type of canvas-y material. These packs look great but can sometimes lack functionality and comfort. Although there are a few bespoke style travel bags (we like Vinta and Rivendell Mountain Works), most will fall into the daypack category.

• Red Oxx C-ruck Carry-on Rucksack

Having said all of this, aesthetic is subjective, and beauty remains in the eye of the beholder. This is why we conduct weekly polls over on our Instagram to get our communities’ take on the look of bags. Follow us on Instagram to cast your votes! You can find all the results of the polls on our individual review pages too, so you can see how well a bag you’re looking for has performed.

The humble backpack: It’ll get you through anything and everything...

There Really is No “Best Travel Backpack”

Although, there is a best travel backpack for you. All this boils down to your preferences.

When we first started creating this guide, we admittedly thought there would be one best bag for travel, but the deeper we dug, the more we realized it depends on your needs as an individual traveler. Sure, there are generally guiding principles to follow, and a bag made out of cardboard objectively won’t last, but there are too many quality backpacks out there to pick just one. If you’re on a short trip, a lighter, less durable pack will suit you well. If you’re headed to Southeast Asia during the monsoon season, you may want some heavy-duty weatherproofing.

We wish you the best of luck moving forward with your selection. Still want more? Be sure to check out our other guides and travel gear reviews too!

Our team at Pack Hacker developed the “best travel backpack” guide in partnership with our friends (and bag experts) at Carryology . We’re constantly updating this guide as new backpacks are released, and the travel landscape changes.

Author: Tom Wahlin

Tom has lived out of a 40L backpack for 2 years of travel, helping him learn what to pack and what to leave behind. His top achievements include designing for Apple and eating large quantities of ramen (ongoing).

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The Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks

By Kit Dillon

Kit Dillon is a writer focused on bags and travel gear. He has worked for Wirecutter for a decade and lost count of the number of bags he has tested.

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

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

What we considered

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

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

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

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

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

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

The research

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

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

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

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

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

45-liter bag vs. 35-liter bag

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

A versatile small pack for a week or a weekend.

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

Buying Options

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Flaws but not dealbreakers

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

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

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L

Combines more organization with a simple interior.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Osprey Farpoint 40

For long distances on foot.

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

(limited colors)

You save $46 (25%)

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

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

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

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

Meet your guide

Kit Dillon is a senior staff writer at Wirecutter. He was previously an app developer, oil derrick inspector, public-radio archivist, and sandwich shop owner. He has written for Popular Science, The Awl, and the New York Observer, among others. When called on, he can still make a mean sandwich.

Further reading

The Best Travel Backpack

by Geoffrey Morrison

For trips ranging from a week to multiple months, the Osprey Farpoint 55 and Fairview 55 carried everything we needed comfortably.

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

by Kit Dillon

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

Wirecutter’s Favorite Bags, Totes, Backpacks and Carryalls

by Truth Headlam

Whether you’re going to school, work, the gym, the store, or on vacay, you need a bag. Here’s the Wirecutter-recommended carrying gear we love most.

I Took 5 Trips in 6 Months. My Go-To Weekender Bag Was This Surprisingly Spacious Backpack.

by Elissa Sanci

Struggling to pack for your weekend away? The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L fits so much more than you’d expect.

Best Travel Daypack in 2023 (10 Great Options)

There’s no such thing as a perfect travel daypack, but we know which ones come really close. You see, it largely depends on your definition of a travel daypack – maybe it’s a bag that will fit everything you need, from a bulky DSLR to all the little lens filters.

Or maybe it’s just a packable daypack that fits into your jacket pocket, which you can use to carry all the souvenirs you buy along the way.

At A Glance: Our Top Travel Daypacks

• Best Small Travel Daypack Osprey Daylite (Plus) Jump To Review
• Most Secure Daypack Pacsafe Metrosafe Anti-theft Backpack Jump To Review
• Best Packable Daypack 4Monster Packable Daypack Jump To Review
• Best For Women Fjallraven Kanken Classic Jump To Review
• Best Hiking Daypack Mystery Ranch In and Out 19 Jump To Review
• Best Sling Daypack Pacsafe Vibe 325 Crossbody Daypack Jump To Review

Whichever it is you are looking for, we’ve got your back. Scroll down to see the ten favorite daypacks for travel, from anti-theft to off-road options!

Top Product Overview

Best travel daypacks, osprey daylite (plus).

Osprey Da ylite  is one of the most iconic travel daypacks ever. It is the perfect option for those of you that already own one of  Osprey’s larger travel backpacks , especially if it has attachment points for the Daylite. You can strap the daypack onto the larger backpack, which makes it so much  easier to travel with more than one piece of luggage. 

The  Daylite and the Daylite Plus  are both made from polyester.  They are small and lightweight backpacks, with padded and ventilated back panels and harnesses for great carrying comfort. The only difference between the two is that the Daylite Plus has two extra pockets – one is a stretchy shove-it pocket, and the other is a small zippered pocket.

Both daypacks have an  internal laptop sleeve that will fit devices up to 14” , as well as an  external hydration sleeve that is just behind the back panel. Both Daylites come equipped with a  thin webbing hip belt and a chest strap , in case you ever need that extra support. Which shouldn’t happen too often, since they are incredibly lightweight packs.

They both have a small front compartment with two slip pockets and a key clip, as well as two side water bottle pockets. And let’s not forget about those side compression straps, that will help you cinch in the backpack if you decide to use it for just your phone, sunglasses, and wallet.

If I had to choose, I would go with the Daylite Plus . The difference in size between these two is not remarkable, but the difference in their capacities is actually pretty big.

The larger Osprey daypack offers 7 liters more , which is a big deal when talking about a small daypack for travel. And since the difference in price is also barely noticeable (some $15), I think it just makes sense to go for the larger daypack. But it is entirely up to you, and your personal preference.

• Internal laptop sleeve
• External hydration sleeve
• Padded and ventilated backpanel
• Not waterproof
• Will not fit 15” laptops

Product Information

• Dimensions: 18.9 x 11.02 x 9.45 in
• Weight: 1.29 lbs
• Capacity: 20 liters

Pacsafe Metrosafe Anti-theft Backpack

I’m sure you’ve heard horror stories at one point in your life, about friends or acquaintances who had their belongings stolen while they were in a foreign country. And I’m not talking about just their phone or camera – I mean their wallet, IDs, credit cards, and passports.

That’s one of my worst nightmares, which is why I’m a really big fan of  anti-theft backpacks . Especially when travelling to cities that are known to have a big issues with pickpockets,  like Lisbon .

While there are many cheaper options out there,  Pacsafe Metrosafe  daypack will forever be one of my favorite anti-theft packs. The   simple design  is suitable for everyone , from teens to seasoned  business travellers . It is made from polyester and entirely cut-proof materials ,  meaning that its  straps, body and back panel are 100% slash-proof.

This backpack has lockable zippers , which include both the zippers to the main compartment and to three external pockets. But the thing I love most about is the Turn and Lock security hooks .

They’re a great day trip backpack – for when you’re riding the metro or sitting at a crowded restaurant – you can put the backpack down on the floor, secure it to the nearest fixture (chair leg, pole, etc.) and have peace of mind that no one will run away with it while you’re not looking.

And if someone does try to tamper with the lock, you will most definitely notice them.

This anti-theft backpack is carry-on sized  and features a spacious main compartment that can fit 15” laptops, a change of clothes and a few other items. There are also several exterior pockets for all your smaller travel accessories, as well as an RFID safe pocket inside the main compartment.

The shoulder straps and the back panel are padded , for your carrying comfort.

• Stretch side pockets
• Padded shoulder straps and backpanel
• RFID safe pockets
• No hip belt or chest strap
• Dimensions: 18.9" x 11.8" x 6.7”
• Weight: 1.84 lbs
• Capacity: 25 liters

4Monster Packable Daypack

Here’s another great option for all of you on a budget – the 4Monster packable daypack is only around $20, depending on the size. This makes it one of the most affordable travel backpacks out of the bunch.

It comes in 3 different sizes, 16L, 24L and 32L which range in weight from 3.7-4.4 oz. So, yes, this pack is incredibly lightweight ! It is made from water-resistant, ripstop nylon, which is very durable. And the zipper is water resistant YKK as well, making it high quality indeed.

Another things I love about this daypack is its packability. It squeezes into 5-6 inch pouch (depending on which size you get). Making it ultra-portable. You can throw it in your luggage, bigger pack or pocket and use it whenever you want while traveling.

DISCOUNT:  Use SAVE10-EWT for 10% off at checkout .

Other decent features include the shoulder straps are covered with breathable mesh, for good ventilation on really hot days. But since this is a packable backpack, there is no padding in it whatsoever. Considering the small capacity of the bag; it shouldn’t get too heavy, so you can still stay comfortable while wearing it.

It has a spacious main compartment that can actually hold a decent amount of your gear. If you want to go ultralight get the 16L, but if you prefer more space for a rain jacket, laptop or other gear you can size-up to the 32L. There is one small front pocket and two stretchy side pockets for water bottles and the like.

Just keep in mind such packs are not super comfortable when loaded with a lot of heavy gear. And it does not have a sternum strap or hip strap, so you will need to improvise if you want it to stay put on your body while you’re walking around for hours.

• Packable & ultra-lightweight
• Front & side pockets
• No sternum strap
• Dimensions: 16.5” x 9” x 6”
• Weight: 3.7 oz
• Capacity: 16 liters

Herschel Travel Daypack

Herschel backpacks  are hip and trendy – perfect for the young traveller who wants to be stylish and cool. They’re also really good travel backpacks, made from great materials with excellent features.

Their travel daypack is a great choice both for people who need a simple pack for day-to-day outings and also for those that are looking for a good carry-on.

It has three main compartments, one of which is a TSA-friendly padded laptop compartment designed to fit devices up to 15”. The interior of this compartment is also lined with fleece and features a protective strap, to ensure that your computer doesn’t just slip out when you’re unzipping the compartment.

The main compartment of the daypack is quite spacious, and can easily fit enough clothes for shorter trips. And it can fit even your bulkiest gear – DSLRs, lenses, tripods, drones, etc.

The travel daypack also has a front compartment with an organizer panel, perfect for all of your smaller items you like to keep separate and have easy access to. In addition to all that, this backpack also features a side water bottle pocket, as well as a luggage strap in the back.

That luggage strap is actually a padded and ventilated insert that will keep your lower back cool and dry even in scorching summer heats. The airmesh of the luggage sleeve is also found on the padded shoulder straps, ensuring your carrying comfort.

In addition to all that, the Herschel travel daypack also features a hidden top pocket, with hook and loop closure.

• Carry on sized
• Padded and ventilated harness and backpanel
• TSA friendly laptop compartment
• Might be too big for some people
• Dimensions: 18.5" x 12.5" x 7”
• Weight: 2.3 lbs
• Capacity: 30 liters

Fjallraven Kanken Classic

The Kanken  is one of the most iconic backpacks ever. Still sporting the same style from the 70s, it’s one of the most popular daypacks with teens and young adults all over Europe.

Part of that is because it’s a hip and trendy backpack, and the other part is that it’s sort of a status symbol – these packs aren’t cheap at all.

But they’re worth every single penny, because of their amazing durability. They can easily survive more than a decade of use, which is mostly due to the tough and abrasion-resistant Vinylon fabric.

And while this travel backpack is most popular with high schoolers and college kids, I’ve also seen it on numerous travelers and digital nomads all over the world – specifically because of its excellent style and durability. And, it makes perhaps the best bag for sightseeing because it’s so light and fashionable (so it’s a great daypack for women too).

There’s also the really spacious main compartment, which can fit enough clothes for shorter trips, and not to mention all the travel gear you might need to put in a daypack.

There’s the smaller front pocket for any accessories you want to have easy access to, and the internal sleeve that’s just the right size to hold a 14” laptop. The backpack itself can contain a 15” device, but it won’t fit in the sleeve.

The shoulder straps aren’t padded, but they are really tough and convertible. In addition to that, the sleeve in the main compartment of the Kanken has a foam insert – this is supposed to keep it comfortable against your back, but also doubles as a sitting pad. A useful thing to have if you wind up in a pub with uncomfortable wooden stools.

Plus, if you don’t take it out of the sleeve, it will do a great job at protecting your laptop.

• Timeless style
• Spacious interior
• Lightweight with durable exterior
• No padding or ventilation in harness and backpanel
• Not a lot of pockets
• Dimensions: 12” x 15” x 11”
• Weight: 0.7 lbs
• Capacity: 13 liters

Mystery Ranch In and Out 19

If you are looking for the best packable backpack for your next city trip then the Mystery Ranch In and Out 19 might be the ticket. It is ultra-packable without compromising on many of the features you expect in a travel daypack. Especially since it is made from 100D Cordura, which is super-durable .

Although it is not quite 3 ounces in weight, it’s just under a pound, it’s still a pretty small pack, so it won’t weigh you down in your adventures. With a total capacity of 19 liters , this will easily hold your must-have gear, but still, stay lightweight enough that you don’t really feel it on your back.

I really like that this day backpack for travel comes with its own outside mesh zippered pocket that it is designed to pack down into . So, there are no bags to lose when it’s unpacked. There is also a stretch side pocket for your water and compression straps in case you don’t fill it completely. This makes it far more comfy to wear in my experience as your gear does not swing when you walk!

Mystery Ranch has also included space for a 2L water bladder inside in case you want to use it for sports, hiking or prefer that to carry a water bottle (I know I do). And there is a sternum strap to secure it better to your chest for those long days out while you travel.

• Daypack features on a packable pack
• Sternum strap
• Lightweight
• No hip belt
• Water bottle pocket is small
• Dimensions: 16.25"x9.5"x8.25"
• Weight: 0.9 lbs
• Capacity: 19 liters

Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack

If you’re interested in a packable daypack,  Osprey’s Ultralight Stuff Pack  is a really good option. It’s quite affordable, although still not as cheap as I would have liked. But, you’re paying for the brand name, so it’s expected.

The foldable day pack is made from ripstop nylon, a material with amazing durability, abrasion and water resistance. It is not entirely waterproof, so don’t go running in the rain with it just yet – unless you decide to get a rain cover for the daypack.

One thing that makes this bag stand out from most other packable daypacks is the presence of breathable mesh on its shoulder straps. That’s not really something you expect from a daypack that folds down to a size of a pen, and a really big plus when it comes to your carrying comfort.

When I opened it completely I found its main compartment to be very spacious. Not only that, but I was surprised to see that it features an internal security pocket that is just the right size to fit your smartphone or a smaller wallet.

On the outside, it was also great to see that Osprey had added an external zippered pocket, perfect for any items you want to have more easily accessible, like your sunglasses. And there’s one stretchy exterior mesh pocket, which will easily fit your water bottle.

The only downside of this daypack is that it does not have a chest strap. Not that I would expect one from a foldable bag, but they make things more comfortable from my experience. I never walk long without putting mine on.

Now, there are ways to create your own if you really need one, so don’t skip the backpack just because of that. A cheap mattress cover clip can work just as well as a chest strap, and ensure that those lightweight shoulder straps stay put on your chest.

Are there cheaper options out there? Yes, absolutely. But will they hold up as well as this one? Probably not. The thing is, if you want a cheap packable solution, you can grab pretty much just any daypack for $10-15. But there’s a good chance it won’t survive more than one or two trips.

But if you want a lightweight, packable travel daypack that you will be able to use for a long time, Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack is the one for you.

• Packable & lightweight
• Total of three exterior pockets
• AirSpace Mesh on shoulder straps
• Doesn’t fit 15.6” laptops
• Pricey (for a packable daypack)
• Dimensions: 17” x 9” x 7”
• Weight: 3.04 oz
• Capacity: 18 liters

AmazonBasics Ultralight Packable Day Pack

If you’re looking for a quick and cheap solution, the AmazonBasics packable daypack is a great option. With a price point under $20, it’s a pack anyone can afford, so easily one of the best options for people on a really tight budget.

And it’s going to perform really good, as long as you know exactly what to expect from a travel daypack. It is made from durable nylon, so it’s a very sturdy bag. I actually love it for travel because it is so small, and it can easily fit into the inner pocket of your jacket.

And then when you need an actual backpack, just take it out and transform the little square of fabric into an amazing portable travel backpack.

With breathable mesh on the straps, the AmazonBasics packable daypack does a good job at keeping you cool and dry during hot weather. But keep in mind that this doesn’t have a chest strap – if you move around a lot, the straps will fall off your shoulders.

So, just be careful not to make the backpack too heavy, since it’s not going to be the most comfortable to wear.

Its main compartment is very spacious and can fit a lot of travel gear. In fact, you can choose between two sizes – a 25-liter bag and a 35-liter bag. I would personally go with the smaller one since the 35-liter bag can be really uncomfortable at full capacity.

In addition to that large main compartment, this travel daypack also features two mesh exterior pockets and an external zippered pocket. Both sizes have the exact same features, and the only difference is in their size and capacity.

Even though the daypack doesn’t have a dedicated laptop sleeve, you will be able to fit a computer inside the spacious compartment. But I wouldn’t necessarily recommend that, seeing how there’s no padding to prevent the device from poking you in the back when you travel.

• Very affordable
• Extremely portable
• Ventilated shoulder straps
• Not entirely waterproof
• Dimensions: 17.5” x 7.5” x 11.5”
• Weight: 5.6 oz

Pacsafe Vibe 325 Crossbody Daypack

The  Vibe anti-theft backpack by Pacsafe  is an amazing option for people who really don’t carry a lot of stuff. If you need something to keep your phone, wallet, and maybe a tablet safe, this is a really good option for you.

It’s a crossbody travel daypack, so you actually have multiple ways of carrying it. And with ventilated and padded shoulder strap and back panel, you will stay comfortable regardless of how you decide to carry  this travel bag. 

This daypack is made from cut-resistant fabric, and it features lockable zippers. The main body of the bag is made from water-resistant ripstop nylon, with steel mesh inlay that makes it slash-proof. Its interior is lined with polyester, and there’s thick padding all around the backpack.

It is designed to keep all your belongings safe, no matter where you are in the world – perfect if you’re traveling to an area that has a reputation for being a bit unsafe for tourists. The internal RFID safe pocket will protect you even from those that are trying to illegally scan your credit card or ID, which is a big bonus.

And this travel backpack is actually a lot bigger than it looks. Yes, it is small and slim, but it can easily fit a 13” MacBook or an iPad – not bad for such a compact daypack.

On top of that, there is a dedicated padded laptop sleeve inside the bag, as well as an organizer panel for your phone, wallet, and other smaller items.

This packable daypack also features an exterior zippered pocket, which is lockable just like the main compartment. Overall, if you’re leaning towards a smaller bag but would like to have the option of carrying your (13”) laptop, consider getting the Vibe.

• Cut-proof fabric and lockable zippers
• Fits 13” laptop in padded sleeve
• Ventilated and padded shoulder strap
• No exterior pockets
• Dimensions: 15.8” x 9.1” x 3.2”
• Weight: 1.37 lbs
• Capacity: 10 liters

The North Face Jester Backpack

If you’re looking for one of the most spacious and comfortable travel daypacks,  the Jester by TNF  is another option worth considering. With a capacity of 28 liters, it’s one of the largest daypacks featured in this review.

And with a sturdy polyester body, comfortably padded and ventilated backpanel, and harness, it’s a backpack that you’ll be able to use both abroad and home.

The Jester is equipped with the FlexVent suspension system, which includes breathable mesh and a spine channel for optimal ventilation. It has a sternum strap that ensures the padded shoulder straps don’t slip, for ultimate carrying comfort.

This bag features a floating laptop sleeve inside the main compartment – floating means that it doesn’t touch the bottom of the bag, which protects your laptop from any bumps at the bottom of the bag. In addition to that, the main compartment is quite spacious and has more than enough space for all your necessary travel gear.

The Jester is one of the best travel daypacks for those that don’t travel light. If you’re carrying a lot of equipment when you’re traveling, you will need all the extra space you can get.

And with multiple compartments and exterior pockets, including an organizer pocket for all your smaller travel accessories, this daypack can really hold it all.

On top of all that, the Jester travel backpack also features side pockets and a bungee cord on the front panel for quickly stashing away your jacket or hoodie. The only thing it’s missing are compression straps – I would have loved to see some above the side pockets so that you could put bulkier items inside them.

• Padded laptop sleeve
• Ventilated and padded backpanel
• Multiple compartments and pockets
• No compression straps
• Dimensions: 19.75" x 13.25" x 7.5”
• Weight: 1.8 lbs
• Capacity: 28 liters

Comparison Table Of Travel Daypacks

What to look for, regular vs. packable daypacks.

So, the two main types of daypacks I’ve shown you here are regular and packable daypacks. Regular daypacks are just classic backpacks designed to hold your must-have travel gear while you are exploring new and unknown cities. They usually feature some padding in the bag and harness, and some will even have great ventilation in this area.

These backpacks are a great option for people who want to have a daypack they can use even when they get back home. Maybe you need a new  everyday carry backpack,  or maybe you want to give up on a messenger bag in favor of a comfortable backpack.

Packable daypacks are those that can fold into their own pocket , and that take up no space in your luggage. If you properly fold one of these, you can pretty much just keep in the pocket of your jacket – a pretty cool option to have, especially if you’re dealing with lack of space in your luggage.

However, the thing to keep in mind about these is that you are giving up on padding . While they might be great for carrying your wallet, chargers, cameras and whatnot, they’re not going to be that comfortable to wear – these packs normally feature really thin shoulder straps, which can cut into your shoulders.

But they’re a great thing to have handy – maybe you’ve gone crazy shopping and you don’t want to carry all those heavy books and souvenirs in your hands. Take out your packable daypack and stuff it with all the items that you don’t want to carry in your hands.

The choice is entirely yours, but it’s important to know exactly what to expect from a pack before you actually buy it.

Backpack Size And Volume

A travel daypack only makes sense for people who are used to carrying a lot of items while they’re out and about exploring new cities. If you’re used to just carrying your wallet, smartphone and keys, maybe think about getting  an RFID safe wallet  or a  travel fanny pack  – they’re actually making a comeback, and they’re all the rage right now.

But if you’re anything like me and don’t like being weighed down by your heavy DSLR, tripod, laptop and a zillion different chargers, a travel daypack is a good investment. However, not just any pack will work – really think about the number of items you carry around , what it is you don’t leave the house without and how much space you need.

Maybe it’s an exterior pocket or a padded laptop sleeve. In any case, make sure that you are getting a daypack that is the right size for you – anything too small, and you won’t be able to get enough use out of it. Anything too big, and you’ll be annoyed that you’re carrying a half-empty pack everywhere.

In any case, I’d say it’s better to get a pack that’s slightly bigger than you need, because you never know when you might need that extra space . Maybe you just bought a snowball or a bottle of liquor, and you don’t feel like carrying it in your arms for the rest of the day – just throw it in your daypack and problem solved!

Compartments And Exterior Pockets

Do you normally carry a lot of gear while you are travelling? If so, you will need a backpack with multiple compartments and pockets, which will let you organize your gear and have everything handy.

If you’re used to carrying your laptop everywhere, look for a daypack with a padded sleeve or compartment that can actually fit your device . The same goes if you usually carry your tablet everywhere.

Also, what do you usually do with your jacket ? Do you always wear it, or do you wind up carrying it in your arms most of the time? If it’s the latter, look for a daypack that has bungee cords on the front panel – these are great for stashing away a spare layer of clothing . And since they’re flexible and stretchy, they can normally fit even really bulky winter jackets.

You can usually tell from the photos of each backpack how many exterior pockets and compartments it has. And if you’re wondering about the pockets inside the bag, you’ll have to check out the mini-reviews to find out.

Best Daypacks: Our Favorites

Not entirely sure which of these daypacks is best for you? That’s okay – pick up one of our favorites, and it should be the perfect fit!

The overall best daypack for travel is for anyone who loves to wander around unknown streets is the Osprey Daylite Plus . It’s the backpack that has everything, from the padded shoulder straps to the internal laptop sleeve.

It is  made from rugged materials,  which have  excellent water and abrasion resistance t o protect your gear in all circumstances. On top of that, it’s a backpack you can use for multiple purposes, from traveling to light hikes and even everyday commutes. Talk about value for money!

• Large panel loading main compartment provides accessibility to inside contents
• Dual stretch mesh side pockets provide additional storage options

If you’re mostly looking for a packable daypack, your best option is the 4Monster Packable Daypack . It’s  very affordable, fits into a jacket pocket when folded and it’s still a great bag.  With a spacious main compartment and  two zippered pockets,  this pack will easily fit all of your must-have travel gear.

And the  ventilated shoulder straps  will help keep you cool even during really hot days, while the  double fabric at the bottom  ensures the pack doesn’t rip no matter how much you stuff it.

• 【Lightweight & Compact】Weight only 4 (oz), which is about half of the weight of a iphone. Easy to carry, can be folded into the wallet size fit into a pocket.
• 【Water Resistant material】This lightweight hiking daypack is made of water-resistant material and zipper. Effectively prevent rainwater from wetting the phone or cash and other items in the backpack.

And if you’re the kind of traveler that likes to step off the beaten path, pick up the Mystery Ranch In and Out .  With a  hydration bladder pocket , this pack is perfect for all travelers who prefer the outdoors to the urban jungle.

Its made from durable materials and it features a padded and ventilated backpanel that will keep you comfortable throughout your adventures.  Plus, the multiple external compression straps let you control the shape and size of the bag, allowing you to customize it to your needs.

• WATER NEVER TASTED SO GOOD: During a long hike having water so convenient and still cold…there’s nothing like it. Lightweight with a custom fit, you’ll forget you have it on until you need it.18L pack give you plenty of storage for your day hike
• HYDRATION BLADDER INCLUDED: 2-liter water bladder included; Complete with durable, kink-free sip tube and innovative push-lock cushioned bite valve; Large 2-inch (5 cm) opening for ice that also makes cleaning easy

You can check out all of the daypacks for travel featured in this review on Amazon, including our three favorite ones. Head over there to see their prices and color options.

If you still haven’t found the perfect daypack for you, check out our related posts. We’ve done reviews on most of the backpacks worth buying, and one of them has to be right for you!

Best Place to Buy Travel Daypacks

Now, you might be wondering where is the best place to buy a daypack for travel. After all, it can be quite confusing figuring out which travel daypack to buy, but then you have to figure out which store to get it from!

From my experience buying dozens of backpacks for my travels over the years, I would recommend the following options:

• REI (They have lots of options for travel & hiking daypacks)
• Amazon (for more general & fashionable daypacks)
• 4Monster – Packable bags
• Pacsafe – Anti-theft daypacks

Frequently Asked Questions

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Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

From short weekend getaways to far-off international adventures, our top travel packs make it easy and comfortable to organize and carry the essentials.

Switchback Travel ( Brian McCurdy )

We use affiliate links and may receive a small commission on purchases. Read more about us . 

Whether you’re traveling across the globe or headed out on a quick weekend getaway, a thoughtfully designed travel pack can help you stay comfortable and organized while on the move. Key considerations include carry-on compatibility for air travel, enough capacity to stash your belongings, pack weight, and preferences on storage and organizational layouts. Below we break down the best travel backpacks of 2024, ranging from minimalist options for a couple nights away to larger bags with removable daypacks for extended trips. For more background information, see our detailed comparison table and buying advice below the picks.

Editor’s note: We updated our travel backpacks guide on March 29, 2024, to add The North Face Base Camp, which is a fully featured option at a competitive price, along with swapping the Patagonia Black Hole MLC from the 45-liter capacity to the 30-liter version due to its more manageable shape and size.  

Our Team's Top Travel Backpack Picks

• Best Overall Travel Backpack: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L
• A Close Second (That's Great for Carrying Electronics): Peak Design Travel Backpack
• Excellent Carrying Comfort for Gear-Intensive Trips: Osprey Sojourn Porter 46 L
• Best for Staying Organized: Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L
• Best Budget Travel Backpack: Amazon Basics Carry-On Travel Backpack
• Best High-Capacity Travel Pack for Long Trips: Osprey Farpoint 70

Best Overall Travel Backpack

1. cotopaxi allpa 35l ($200).

When compiling our list of the best travel packs, we prioritized functional organization, easy on-the-go access, durable materials, and carry-on compatibility. Cotopaxi’s Allpa 35L Travel Pack checks all those boxes emphatically, earning it our top spot for 2024. Along with the vibrant styling and multi-colored patterning that the brand is known for, the Allpa is exceptionally durable with a mix of 1,000-denier, TPU-coated polyester and panels of 840-denier ballistic nylon. In use, we found the Allpa to be remarkably tough and highly water-resistant, and the pack also comes with a stowable rain cover for truly inclement weather. We also love the dual access to the main compartment, including a full wraparound zipper and secondary side zip next to the backpanel for easily retrieving items while on the move. And the electronics sleeve is big enough to handle both a laptop and tablet at the same time, which isn’t often the case. Overall, the Allpa is well made, stylish, and very nicely appointed for travel.

What’s not to like with the Cotopaxi Allpa? While the 35-liter variation here is nicely sized for long weekend trips or shorter getaways abroad, it’s smaller than competitors like the Peak Design Travel Backpack, Osprey Sojourn Porter 46, and many other carry-on-friendly designs below (Cotopaxi does sell a larger 42L version for $220 that still meets most airline requirements). Further, while overall carrying comfort is good, there are no load-lifter straps to bring the pack closer to your body. Additionally, the interior pockets are a little awkwardly sized, and the lack of external compression straps makes it hard to secure bulkier loads. A final omission is water bottle storage, although it’s not a critical feature for most and does little to dampen our enthusiasm for an otherwise well-rounded and great-looking bag. And for those looking to check their luggage, the Allpa roller bags are equally tough and user-friendly. See the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

A Close Second (That's Great for Carrying Electronics)

2. peak design travel backpack ($300).

Peak Design’s Travel Backpack may look relatively unassuming on the outside, but don’t be fooled: This bag is packed with thoughtful travel-ready features. First is the expandable design, which allows you to alternate between 35 and 45 liters by simply zipping or unzipping the frontmost zipper. Access is another highlight, including entry points at the top, side, front, and rear for easily retrieving items pretty much anywhere in the pack. Storage is also excellent with padded laptop and tablet sleeves, a divisible main compartment, large and stretchy dual side pockets (not common on travel packs), and multiple interior pockets. And it’s all wrapped up in a thick nylon canvas shell that’s durable, streamlined, and very modern.

What complaints do we have about the Peak Design Travel Backpack? Price is the most glaring downside: At $300, it’s one of the most expensive designs on our list. And while the bag is undeniably sleek, it’s pretty utilitarian-looking and less everyday-friendly than more vibrant options like the Cotopaxi Allpa above and Topo Designs Global Travel Bag below. It’s also on the heavy end at 4 pounds 8 ounces, which isn’t unreasonable but does add considerable heft compared to many competitors. Finally, the Travel Backpack is technically not carry-on compliant when expanded, measuring 22 x 13 x 11 inches (the standard U.S. domestic carry-on limit is 22 x 14 x 9 in.). But it works at the compressed 35-liter size (or smaller 30L option) , and photographers in particular will love the shape, which nicely accommodates multiple camera cubes, lenses, and other accessories. If you fall into that group, another staff favorite is Wandrd's Prvke , which features a more modular design with specialized add-ons for camera gear. See the Peak Design Travel Backpack

Excellent Carrying Comfort for Gear-Intensive Trips

3. osprey sojourn porter 46 l ($195).

Osprey is a leader in the backpacking pack market, and much of that technology and expertise has trickled down nicely into their travel pack collection. The Sojourn Porter 46 L is case in point, combining the impressive carrying comfort that the brand is known for with a practical, carry-on-friendly build and feature set for travel. Starting at the outside, you get a rigid foam backpanel with well-cushioned shoulder and hipbelt straps that feel reminiscent of Osprey’s backpacking designs, a handy compression system to effectively cinch things down, lockable zippers for the main compartment, and a beefy side handle for hauling the pack duffel-style. The inside is a similar story with ample pockets of varying sizes, compressions traps to keep clothes tidy, and padded sidewalls to help protect valuables during travel.

Despite offering 11 more liters of capacity than our top-ranked Cotopaxi Allpa 35L (for $5 less), the Sojourn Porter 46 L is still carry-on compliant, making it the largest option here that still meets most domestic and international airline restrictions. It’s also impressively sturdy and durable and includes reinforced cord loops to attach to Osprey's Daylite or Farpoint/Fairview daypacks (sold separately). We do wish Osprey offered the design in a women’s version for those with smaller torso and waist measurements, but the unisex sizing is standard in the travel market (their Farpoint/Fairview below is one of the few models to come in a separate women’s version). In the end, if it fits you well, the Sojourn Porter offers a hard-to-beat mix of capacity, features, and comfort for the price, making it our favorite option for longer, gear-intensive adventures. See the Osprey Sojourn Porter 46 L

Best Travel Pack for Staying Organized

4. topo designs global travel bag 30l ($199).

Topo Designs flies a little under the radar compared to well-known brands like Cotopaxi and Osprey, but don’t let that deter you—this company makes exceptionally built and good-looking packs for everything from commuting and travel to more technical pursuits like biking and climbing. Their Global Travel Bag 30L here is a shining example and stands out in one major way: internal organization. Put simply, there’s no shortage of options for divvying up your belongings, from the vertical daisy chain webbing on the front to the expandable side water bottle pockets, ample zippered storage inside and out, a laptop sleeve along the backpanel, and several interior mesh pockets. Like the Cotopaxi Allpa above, the Global Travel Bag is also well equipped for rough use, including a mix of 1,000- and 1,680-denier ballistic nylon that gives the pack a noticeably burly, confidence-inspiring feel—at a very manageable 2 pounds 10 ounces to boot.

That said, the extensive feature set does add some complexity when it comes to organization. We like the big clamshell opening to the main compartment, but we had to reorganize to make everything fit into the various compartments (they're optimized for Topo Designs' Pack Bags , which are smaller than our standard packing cubes). The tall and slim shape is also best suited for clothing rather than bulky gear, which may be limiting for outdoor adventures that involve camping or backpacking. We also wished there were a little more padding along the shoulder straps and hipbelt while walking through airports with the pack stuffed full, but it distributed the load pretty well (and the hipbelt can be tucked away when not in use). In the end, no pack is perfect, but the Global Travel Bag 30L is a well-built, durable, and stylish option for overnights, short weekend getaways, and even minimalist adventures abroad. It’s also sold in a larger 40-liter variation for longer trips, although we found the smaller pack to be much more manageable. See the Topo Designs Travel Bag 30L

Best Budget Travel Backpack

5. amazon basics carry-on travel backpack ($46).

Travel packs are an expensive bunch, but Amazon makes an affordable but still surprisingly capable option in their Carry-On Travel Backpack. We’ll start with the good news: As its name implies, the bag is carry-on compliant, and it comes with most of the standard features we look for in a practical travel pack. These include a zippered laptop sleeve, internal and external compression straps, easy-access pockets for travel documents, and good organization in the main compartment. Like the Peak Design Travel Backpack above, the Amazon Basics can also be expanded to boost packing space while still meeting carry-on restrictions. And at just around $50 at the time of publishing (colorways vary on Amazon), the 40-liter Carry-On Travel Backpack is a great value for what you get, undercutting most similarly sized models on this list by $100 or more.

Now for the bad news: This Amazon Basics pack is far less capable than many of the picks here for shuttling a full load. The shoulder straps are lightly padded, while the hipbelt is a thin and basic webbing design that won’t feel comfortable under the weight of a full pack. The rest of the design has a cheaper feel, too, including a shiny and dated-looking exterior, a lot of plastic (read: breakable) components, and standard, non-lockable zippers. You don’t get dedicated water bottle storage either, which isn’t a necessary feature but certainly is nice to have. But if you’re an occasional traveler and aren’t yet ready to make a more sizable investment, the Amazon Basics pack is a perfectly serviceable entry-level option at a great price. For another capable budget design that comes with packing cubes and lots of colorway options, we also like Asenlin’s 40L Travel Backpack . See the Amazon Basics Carry-On Travel Backpack

Best High-Capacity Travel Pack for Long Trips

6. osprey farpoint 70 ($230).

The packs above are great for vacationers and travelers headed out for a week or two, but those embarking on longer and/or gear-heavy trips abroad will almost certainly need more storage and capacity. Enter Osprey’s Farpoint 70, which comes with a 15-liter daypack that can be attached to the front to maximize capacity or used separately for around-town adventures once you reach your destination (Note: The travel pack itself is 55L). Importantly, both come well appointed: The daypack boasts a dedicated tablet/hydration sleeve and water bottle pockets, while the main pack has great cushioning along the straps and backpanel (it’s an Osprey, after all), a well-ventilated backpanel, easy access via the large front panel, and an adjustable torso system for dialing in a good fit. It's all wrapped up in a thoughtful and sustainable package, including recycled and bluesign-approved fabrics, along with a dedicated women's version called the Fairview.

All that said, there’s one glaring downside to opting for a larger-capacity design like the Osprey Farpoint 70: It doesn’t meet most carry-on size requirements. For reference, the standard domestic carry-on limit within the U.S. is 22 x 14 x 9 inches, while the Farpoint measures 25.6 x 15 x 12.6. Another complaint is that the daypack obscures the pack’s main compartment when attached, making it tedious to access your belongings. Even so, you’d be hard-pressed to find a more versatile and comfortable system for less (the daypack is a $65 investment on its own), making the Farpoint 70 our favorite high-capacity pick of the year. It’s also available in a larger 80-liter version, as well as smaller 40- and 55-liter capacities, although only the Farpoint 55 and 70 include the detachable daypack.  See the Osprey Farpoint 70   See the Women's Osprey Fairview 70

Best of the Rest

7. eagle creek tour 40l ($159).

Eagle Creek first started making packs in the mid 1970s, and their Tour 40L travel pack reflects that longstanding history in the market. From the get-go, we were immediately impressed by its highly practical design. The bag has great exterior storage, including a stretchy side water bottle pocket and expansion zipper for 5 liters of additional capacity in the main compartment. Additionally, the book-style opening provides quick access to the contents of the bag, and interior and exterior compression straps make it easy to snug things down. We also appreciate that it comes in two torso sizes (S/M and M/L) for maximizing fit, which is uncommon in the travel pack market and a really nice plus at this price point. And the cherry on top: The Tour checks in at a very competitive 2 pounds 10 ounces, which is tied with Topo Designs’ 10-liter-smaller Global Travel Bag above as the lightest on our list.

Other notable features on the Eagle Creek Tour 40L include side and top grab handles for easy loading and carrying, an integrated rain cover that stows away at the bottom and doubles as a backpanel cover if you check the bag, puncture-resistant and lockable zippers that are easy to operate even with gloves, and good overall carrying comfort. It’s not the toughest design out there—the water bottle pocket started to fray on our pack after just one trip—but uses durable 600-denier polyester elsewhere and is reasonably hardwearing overall. Final nitpicks include no pass-through sleeve for securing to a suitcase and a fairly bland exterior, but those do little to detract from the Tour’s otherwise well-rounded build.  See the Eagle Creek Tour 40L

8. Gregory Border Carry-On 40 ($190)

Like Osprey, Gregory is a leader in the hiking and backpacking markets, and their Border Carry-On 40 retains many of their well-loved technical features in a travel-friendly design. The big news here is the pack’s split-case design, which creates two distinct areas within the main compartment accessed via one large, clamshell-style opening. On one side, a zippered mesh panel with added zippered storage and compression straps keeps your clothing and some accessories organized, while an odor-resistant “ActiveShield” compartment at the opposite side effectively separates dirty clothes. As expected from Gregory, carrying comfort is also great with good adjustability at the sternum, a well-cushioned backpanel, and thick straps. You don’t get load lifters for bringing the pack closer to your body, but we didn’t have any issues, even when running through the Montreal airport to a connecting flight en route to Patagonia.

That said, the Gregory Border Carry-On’s split-case design does have a noteworthy pitfall: With both compartments zipped, storage feels pretty limited. Unzipping the larger mesh panel does help maximize space (especially when stuffing the pack to the brim), but it also defeats the purpose of the dual compartments. Compared to the competition, the Border also uses thinner materials than Osprey’s Sojourn Porter and Farpoint offerings, although the rest of the feature set stacks up similarly. In the end, it’s another comfortable and well-built travel pack, and the split-case design has its merits for those who pack light. See the Gregory Border Carry-On 40

9. Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L ($350)

Travel packs are a dime a dozen in 2024, but Tortuga’s Travel Backpack 40L—which replaced their Outbreaker 35L—stands out as one of the most well-appointed and thoughtfully built options on the market. Organization is a clear highlight, including a large front pocket with several sleeves for divvying up small valuables and documents, a convenient clamshell-style opening with zippered compartments for separating clothes and shoes, and padded laptop and tablet sleeves with zippered mesh pockets at the other side for storing cords and accessories. Rounding out the feature set are easy-to-access water bottle pockets that can fit most standard-mouth bottles (our wide-mouth Hydro Flask was too big), zippered hipbelt storage that can accommodate a smartphone and passport, and lockable, water-resistant zippers. Finally, the design is well padded with thick cushioning along the backpanel, shoulder straps, and hipbelt, which is fairly uncommon among travel-specific brands. 

It's worth noting that the Tortuga Travel Backpack has a slightly more streamlined storage layout than its predecessor, although you do get an additional 5 liters of capacity and a bump in usable space. However, the Tortuga is no featherweight at 4 pounds 8 ounces, which is a notable downside for long treks through the airport and around town. It’s also tied with Matador’s GlobeRider below as the priciest on our list at a steep $350. On the bright side, Tortuga does offer a lifetime warranty against defects, and they will repair/replace the pack or refund your money if a replacement isn't available. All told, it’s a nice dose of added assurance and helps justify the steep price, but the hefty build and lack of value push the Tortuga slightly down in our rankings. For another well-executed design with all the requisite travel features, check out Aer’s Travel Pack 3 , which is cheaper at $249 but 5 liters smaller and doesn’t include a hipbelt with purchase. See the Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L

10. Yeti Crossroads 35L Backpack ($250)

Yeti's coolers and insulated drinkware are their bread and butter, but the focus on premium craftsmanship doesn’t end there. On the travel side, their Crossroads 35L Backpack is exactly what we’ve come to expect from the brand: excellent durability and functionality in a modern package. The body of the pack is made with Yeti's tough and confidence-inspiring TuffSkin nylon (which was inspired by motorcycle gear), while the PU-coated base adds a nice dose of assurance when setting it down. All of the other components have an equally durable and supportive feel, from the foam-heavy shoulder straps to the thick, protective backpanel. It’s all wrapped up in a sleek and streamlined design that’s offered in a nice selection of colorways, from bright Harvest Red to subdued Alpine Brown (shown in the photo here).

Yeti clearly put a lot of thought into the outside of the Crossroads, but the interior is well executed, too. The clamshell opening folds back to reveal a pocket-equipped mesh panel and generous main compartment that still can be accessed when wearing the pack. You also get dedicated storage for a water bottle and laptop, as well as a pass-through sleeve for securing to a roller bag. Our biggest gripe is the lack of padding: The detachable hipbelt is made of thin webbing and doesn’t offer much support, and the shoulder straps and backpanel have a noticeably thick and rigid feel, which is great for durability but detracts from overall comfort. And as with most Yeti products, the pack isn’t particularly cheap or light at $250 and nearly 4 pounds. Finally, the 35-liter Crossroads is on the smaller side and will require precise packing to fit more than about three to five days’ worth of belongings. But again, build quality is top-notch, and minimalists used to packing light may not mind the small sacrifices in comfort and storage. See the Yeti Crossroads 35L Backpack

11. Matador GlobeRider45 ($350)

Matador may lack the name recognition of brands like Osprey and Cotopaxi, but don’t let that fool you: This Boulder-based upstart is quickly growing thanks to their outside-the-box thinking. From their travel collection, the new GlobeRider45 stands out as a very intentionally built design that spares no expense in terms of features. In addition to being on the larger end, the carry-on-compliant GlobeRider offers solid comfort and support with good padding along the straps and backpanel, a light but sturdy aluminum frame stay, and a well-executed suspension system that’s reminiscent of a backpacking pack. Organization also abounds with a large external stash pocket, thoughtfully designed electronics pockets, vertical daisy chain webbing, and a practical interior layout that includes a packing cube-like space on one side and open clothing storage on the other. All told, it's an intriguing new pack that does a great job merging the utility of both backpacking and travel designs.

It's worth noting that we previously had Matador’s cheaper and lighter Seg45 ranked here, which boasts a unique segmented design that allows you to customize organization by day or activity. When unzipped, the five compartments at the front of the pack reveal independent (and stowable) storage cube-like areas for clothes and other soft items, while the main compartment below provides added space for dirty clothes, shoes, and other bulkier gear. While innovative, however, the Seg45 falls well short of the GlobeRider in carrying comfort, which is largely a result of the thin webbing hipbelt and lack of frame. The pocket-heavy exterior also made it hard for us to remember where we put certain items and detracts from the amount of usable space inside the main compartment. Both packs are arguably overbuilt for infrequent travelers, but the GlobeRider stands out as the more balanced option for those willing to splurge. See the Matador GlobeRider45

12. The North Face Base Camp Travel Pack ($169)

The North Face’s expedition-ready Base Camp duffels have long been popular among serious adventurers, and the Base Camp Travel Pack is a logical and carry-on-friendly addition to the collection. We found a lot to like about the pack during testing, including its burly and abrasion-resistant exterior and myriad storage options. We particularly enjoyed the Base Camp’s front pocket layout, which makes it easy to divvy up travel documents and electronics with a variety of mesh, zippered, and fleece-lined pockets. The smaller details are equally well sorted, from the well-padded shoulder straps and backpanel to the fleece-lined laptop sleeve and generous daisy chain system for attaching gear externally. Finally, despite being a little smaller than many of our top picks, the 35-liter Base Camp includes water bottle pockets that easily swallowed our 24-ounce Hydro Flask.

However, despite checking all the boxes for most travelers, the Base Camp starts to look a little less competitive when stacked up against options like the Eagle Creek Tour above. For $10 less, the Tour boasts an additional 5 liters of capacity and includes helpful additions like a hipbelt, load-lifter straps, and a rain cover—all for around a pound less. Another alternative worth considering is REI’s Ruckpack 40 , which costs the same as the Base Camp and is more capable of crossing over for hiking: The laptop sleeve can fit a 3-liter reservoir, there are attachment points for trekking poles, and the suspension system is more in line with standard daypacks. Depending on your needs, the Ruckpack might be the better option, but the Base Camp offers better organization for travel in a more modern-looking package than the Eagle Creek. A final note: Those with broader builds may experience discomfort where the shoulder straps meet the backpanel, but our narrow-framed female tester had no comfort-related issues. See the TNF Base Camp Travel Pack

13. Thule Aion Travel Pack ($200)

Swedish brand Thule is best known for their bike and roof racks, but they make sneaky-good packs, too. Our favorite in their collection this year is the 40-liter Aion, which combines the premium build quality that Thule is known for with a nice assortment of travel-ready features. One unique—but very functional—addition is the removable TPU rolltop bag for stashing dirty laundry, which prevents odors and dirt from making their way to the rest of your belongings. The rest of the design is nicely appointed, including dedicated water bottle storage, an easy-to-access clamshell opening, plenty of zippered spaces for electronics and valuables (including a padded laptop/tablet sleeve), internal compressions straps to keep items secure and tidy, lockable zippers, and carry-on-compliant dimensions. 

What pushes the Thule Aion down to a mid-pack finish? At this price point and capacity, we’re surprised to see that the bag doesn’t come with a hipbelt. You can purchase Thule’s compatible Aion sling bag separately, which can pull double-duty for around-town use, but it’s a fairly expensive addition at $50 (and a feature we consider critical for a pack of this size). To be fair, the rest of the build is very well executed, including a noticeably thick and robust 600-denier waxed canvas shell and PFC-free DWR coating for fending off moisture. If you don’t mind the added investment for the waist belt/sling bag, it’s a promising design with competitive specs to match. Of note, if you’re looking for something a little different for travel, the Aion collection also includes a roller bag and a 35-liter duffel . See the Thule Aion Travel Pack

14. Pacsafe EXP45 ($290)

Travel can be an exhausting endeavor, especially if you’re constantly worried about your luggage or valuables getting stolen. That’s why anti-theft designs like Pacsafe’s EXP45 are becoming increasingly common, particularly for international trips. Like most of Pacsafe’s offerings, the EXP45 is packed with protective features, from cut-resistant materials to lockable and puncture-resistant double zippers and built-in stainless steel cable locks. Importantly, these are nicely integrated and don’t detract too heavily from the Pacsafe's functionality as a travel pack—it’s still well organized with ample interior and exterior pockets and compression straps, offers multiple carry options, and is carry-on compliant.

That said, the Pacsafe EXP45 is a pretty niche design that prioritizes safety over carrying comfort and access. The pack is on the heavier end at over 4 pounds due to all the protective features, the padding along the shoulder straps and hipbelt is firm (albeit decently thick), and there are no load-lifter straps to pull the pack closer to your body. Another downside is that the laptop sleeve is positioned at the front of the bag—we prefer when heavier items are situated close to the back for better weight distribution—and accessing items here can be difficult due to the half-length zipper design (we wish it had a clamshell opening like the main compartment). In other words, comfort- and convenience-focused travelers will likely want to look elsewhere, but the Pacsafe has its place for those who prioritize safety and security. For a cheaper and lighter option that doesn’t skimp on safety features, we also like Pacsafe’s Go 44L , although frequent travelers will likely prefer the more premium EXP45. See the Pacsafe EXP45

15. Patagonia Black Hole Mini MLC 30L ($199)

Patagonia’s Black Hole is legendary in the world of duffel bags, and the Mini MLC 30L travel pack variation shares that bag’s excellent durability and good looks in a more organized and carry-on-friendly design. Like the duffels, the Black Hole pack is made of strong (and recycled) polyester ripstop that’s highly tear-resistant with a TPU film on the exterior for fending off precipitation. It also boasts the signature daisy chain webbing along one side for securing extra gear. Importantly, however, the travel focus is clear: You get three carrying options (backpack, over-the-shoulder, or briefcase-style), compatibility with a roller bag, and a generously sized opening with two separate chambers for customizing organization.

Why do we rank the Patagonia Black Hole Mini MLC 30L here? The most glaring downside is its 30-liter capacity, which is undersized for trips lasting longer than a few days (unless you’re a staunch minimalist). Patagonia does offer a larger 45-liter variation for $40 more, although we found it to be lacking in structure, which caused the pack to feel noticeably bulky and cumbersome when stuffed full. Thankfully, both options feature the same well-executed backpanel design that we love, which comprises sleeves at one side for a laptop and tablet with zippered and drop-in pockets at the other for divvying up cords and accessories. Again, the Mini version is underbuilt for extended trips abroad but remains an excellent pick for commutes, daily use, and as a secondary bag for travel. See the Patagonia Black Hole Mini MLC 30L

16. Nomatic Travel Bag 40L ($290)

Many of the picks above are built by reputable backpacking manufacturers, but Nomatic is a travel company first. Their Travel Bag 40L embodies that focus, combining thoughtful organization and storage with easy access in a sleek and minimalist package. Feature highlights include a customizable strap design that allows you to easily alternate between backpack and duffel carry, dedicated compartments for shoes and clothing at the top and bottom of the bag, and even a mesh laundry bag to keep dirty clothes separate during travel. We also love the exterior pocket at the right side, which opens wide for easy access and features an array of mesh, fleece-lined, and zippered spots to organize electronics and cords, along with an RFID pocket for passports and other scannable documents. All told, it’s clear that Nomatic put a ton of thought into the design. 

It’s worth noting that Nomatic offers another intriguing option in their Navigator , although we consider the Travel Bag the more competitive all-around design. In parsing out the differences, the Travel Bag costs $110 less and is lighter by nearly 2 pounds, although it forgoes the Navigator’s expandable main compartment that allows you to alternate between 32 and 41 liters depending on your storage needs. The Navigator also includes load lifter straps and a sculpted foam backpanel for a boost in carrying comfort, but the Travel Bag is no slouch. And from a features perspective, we appreciate the Travel Bag’s dirty shoe compartment and included laundry bag. Those with smaller frames may have trouble dialing in a secure fit—our female tester (5’6” and 135 lb.) maxed out the Travel Bag’s hipbelt, for example—but the intentional organization layout and travel-ready feature set are undeniable selling points. See the Nomatic Travel Bag 40L

17. Mystery Ranch Mission Rover 45 ($249)

Along with Osprey’s Sojourn Porter 46 above, Mystery Ranch’s Mission Rover 45 is a great option for those of us who aren’t particularly adept at packing light. Touted as a “workhorse gear hauler,” the Mission Rover offers three functional carry options (as a suitcase, shoulder bag, or standard backpack), has a well-organized main compartment with zippered dividers and a wraparound clamshell opening, and even includes separate areas for shoes and dirty laundry. As expected at this price point, you also get most of the standard travel-ready features that we look for, including a stowable hipbelt, lockable zippers, a sleeve to secure to a rolling suitcase, and a padded laptop space that can accommodate computers up to 15 inches wide. Finally, like many of Mystery Ranch's backpacking offerings, the Mission Rover has a premium feel with a thick nylon exterior and water-resistant YKK zippers.

However, as with the Pacsafe EXP45 above, the Mission Rover’s laptop sleeve is situated at the front of the pack, which detracts from carrying comfort and convenience. The Mystery Ranch is also on the heavier and pricier end of the spectrum at 4 pounds 4.8 ounces and $249, although the 45-liter capacity is undeniably generous (and the pack is still compliant with most carry-on size restrictions). Finally, the bag is relatively dated-looking and lacking in modern appeal compared to offerings from Topo Designs, Peak Design, Cotopaxi, and others above. In other words, the Mission Rover doesn’t stand out in any one area (hence our ranking), but it’s another durable travel pack with a nicely executed feature set. See the Mystery Ranch Mission Rover 45

Travel Backpack Comparison Table

Editor's note: "Carry-on" refers to whether or not each pack meets standard domestic and international air travel restrictions, which must be under 22 x 14 x 9 inches or 45 linear inches when adding L+W+H.

About Our Testing Process

True to our name, globetrotting is a big part of what we do at Switchback Travel. Managing editor Sarah Nelson put together our initial list of 16 picks in 2022 after a trip to El Chaltén in southern Argentina with fellow staff members and gear testers. From takeoff to our return flights home, we put our packs through their paces by stuffing them to the brim with two weeks’ worth of clothing and gear, schlepping them through domestic and international airports, shoving them into overhead compartments and below our seats, and getting intimately familiar with organizational layouts for divvying up our documents and electronics. Upon our return, we also evaluated each pack closely for signs of wear like tears and stains.

Our current list of 17 picks reflects our own experiences as well as feedback from our freelancers, travel-savvy friends, and the online travel community. We continue to test travel packs on adventures near and far, adding and removing designs as the market shifts and as we get firsthand experience with more options. For example, on a recent trip to Chilean Patagonia in February 2024, we brought along two new-to-us travel packs: The North Face Base Camp and the Nomatic Travel Pack, both of which are now featured in the guide above. We’ll be sure to add any other standouts and favorites to the list above with each update.   

Travel Backpack Buying Advice

Size and capacity.

• Carry-on Size Restrictions

Organization: Pockets and Main Compartment Access

Carrying comfort, grab handles and alternate carry methods.

• Other Features

Construction and Durability

Fit and sizing, women’s-specific travel backpacks, sustainability, packing cubes and other accessories, do you need a travel backpack.

The first question to answer when choosing a travel pack is how much capacity you anticipate needing. For reference, the options above range from 30 liters on the small end (the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag ) all the way up to 70 liters for the Osprey Farpoint 70 (with the 15L daypack attached). Most travelers will land on something in the middle, with the sweet spot for many being in the 40- to 45-liter range—it’s no coincidence that well over half of the models above fall into this grouping, which is largely due to their carry-on-compliant dimensions.   

In general, we’ve found that packs of this size can easily accommodate a week or two of clothing, toiletries, and other travel accessories (and even more if you pack light). For reference, we had no issues fitting 14 days’ worth of belongings into the 40-liter version of Topo Designs’ Global Travel Bag on a recent trip to Patagonia. If you stick to weekend adventures, you can keep things lighter and more compact (and save some cash in the process) by opting for the smaller, 30-liter variation. On the flip side, those embarking on longer expeditions abroad might need to step up to a larger design like the Osprey Farpoint 70 or 80 (at the sacrifice of carry-on compatibility).  

Travel Backpack Dimensions

Dimensions are a crucial consideration for most travelers, and especially those headed abroad. With that in mind, we’ve listed the length, width, and height measurements for each travel pack above both in the write-ups and in our comparison table . As you may notice, similarly sized travel packs don’t vary too considerably in terms of dimensions. This is mainly due to carry-on size restrictions, which we break down more in depth below. Carry-on Size Restrictions Right off the bat, we’ll note that there is technically no standardized size requirement for carry-on luggage domestically or abroad. That said, the universally accepted dimensions within the U.S. are 22 x 14 x 9 inches or 45 linear inches when adding L+W+H. We’ve indicated whether each travel pack above meets these requirements in our comparison table, and REI Co-op does the same on each of their product pages. The only exception above is the Osprey Farpoint 70 , which measures 25.6 x 15 x 12.6 inches.  

It’s also important to call out expandable models here like the Peak Design Travel Backpack , which is carry-on compliant when compressed to 35 liters (22 x 13 x 9.5 in.) but not when expanded to its maximum 45-liter capacity (22 x 13 x 11 in.). You may be able to get away with carrying these bags onboard, but don’t count on it, especially if you’re traveling during peak season to a popular destination. When in doubt, you can always check with your airline ahead of time.  

All of the packs above are purpose-built for travel with extensive organizational layouts and thoughtfully placed pockets for separating valuables, electronics, and other accessories. That said, some layouts are more functional than others, and a final decision will largely come down to your intended use and what works best for the items that you plan to bring along. For instance, sleek options like the Peak Design Travel Backpack and Nomatic Travel Bag are great for digital nomads and remote workers who need to organize a lot of electronics, while backpacking-inspired designs like Osprey’s Farpoint and Sojourn Porter offerings have fewer tech-focused features but work great for adventure travel. We break down some of the key organizational components below, from laptop and tablet sleeves to water bottle storage and pack opening styles.  

Laptop and Tablet Sleeves Laptop storage is a requisite feature in a travel pack, and all of the picks above come with a dedicated spot to stash larger electronics. In terms of dimensions, most sleeves can accommodate up to a 15-inch laptop, and many come with separate smaller compartments in the same space for a tablet, too. This area is typically well padded to protect electronics and positioned along the backpanel for the best access and weight distribution (keeping heavier items closest to your back will help maximize comfort and balance). A couple exceptions to this rule are the Pacsafe EXP45 and Mystery Ranch Mission Rover 45 , both of which have the laptop sleeve at the front of the pack and can feel a little less well balanced with heavier electronics situated farther away from your body.  

Water Bottle Pockets Unlike laptop sleeves, side water bottle pockets aren’t a standard feature on travel packs. Some models that include them are the Topo Designs Global Travel Pack, Peak Design Travel Backpack, Osprey Farpoint 70 (on its removable daypack), Eagle Creek Tour , and Thule Aion, while the Cotopaxi Allpa and Amazon Basics Carry-On leave them out. And it’s worth noting that the Farpoint’s removable daypack is also compatible with a hydration reservoir, including a sleeve and access ports at either side for a tube (Note: This area on the daypack doubles as the laptop sleeve).   

Opening Styles and Access Easy access is a hallmark of a good travel backpack. The clamshell-style opening is far and away the most popular design and for good reason: With the pack laid flat, you can easily see and access the entirety of the main compartment. Some backpack-inspired designs, like Osprey's Sojourn Porter 46 and Farpoint 70, utilize generous U-zip designs instead, which are pretty functional but make it a little harder to reach contents at the very bottom of the bags. Finally, it's important to note that some bags come with multiple access points: The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L, for instance, includes both a full wraparound zipper and “shortcut” side zip next to the backpanel for easily retrieving items while on the move.  

Comfort can be somewhat subjective, but a few features help certain travel packs stand out from the rest of the market. Typically, the most comfortable designs boast shoulder straps and hipbelts with thick padding and good adjustability for dialing in fit. Sternum and load-lifter straps can also be very helpful in effectively distributing a heavy load. One brand that stands out in this area is Osprey, which makes sense given their expertise in the backpacking pack market. One of our favorite options for shuttling heavy loads over long distances is Osprey Sojourn Porter 46 , which features thick cushioning and good adjustability at the shoulders and waist belt and comes with load lifters for bringing the weight closer to your back.  

On the flip side, models without hipbelts are generally the least comfortable, especially when wearing them for extended stretches. From the list above, only the Thule Aoin doesn’t come with one, although their Aion Sling Bag (sold separately for $50) can be attached to serve as a hipbelt. Thin webbing designs—like what you get with the Amazon Basics Carry-On and Yeti Crossroads —aren’t much better, providing very little support and structure for keeping the weight of the pack on your hips (rather than your back). If you plan to be walking long distances with your pack through airports or city streets, we consider a well-padded waist belt a critical feature and worth the added investment.   

The models above are designed to be worn on your back as backpacks, but many travelers appreciate the ability to carry their pack suitcase-style or over the shoulder. These options are especially helpful when standing in line to check in at the airport or retrieve travel documents. For instance, the Peak Design Travel Backpack boasts 360-degree grab handles that make it quick and easy to take the pack off and carry it one-handed through security checkpoints or narrow airplane aisles. Designs like the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L also come with detachable straps for shoulder carry, which can be helpful when you need to access items inside but want to keep the pack off the ground and remain hands-free. Finally, many of the offerings here can be secured to a roller bag via pass-through sleeves, which we cover more below.  

Other Travel Pack Features

In addition to pockets and electronics sleeves, there are a few other features specific to travel packs that are worth having on your radar. Lockable zippers are fairly standard at the mid to upper end of the market (budget designs like the Amazon Basics Carry-On Travel Backpack forgo them), as are removable and/or stowable straps and compression straps or dividers to keep things tidy in the main compartment. As is common with backpacking models, some travel packs also come with built-in rain covers that stow away when not in use, including Cotopaxi’s Allpa 35L and Eagle Creek’s Tour 40L. Finally, many will appreciate the ability to attach their travel pack directly to a rolling suitcase via a pass-through handle or sleeve (like what you get with Yeti Crossroads 35L and many others above).  

Given the inherently rough nature of travel, all of the packs above are well built and hardwearing enough to withstand frequent use. That said, some are certainly more durable than others, and looking at denier (a measurement of fabric thickness) can help differentiate between models. For instance, the Gregory Border Carry-On 40 is pretty average with a mix of 210- and 450-denier (D) materials, while the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is one of the thickest and most abrasion-resistant options on our list with a combination of 1,000D polyester and 840D ballistic nylon (Topo Designs' Global Travel Bag uses a similar combo but with 1,000D nylon and 1,680D ballistic nylon). Pacsafe’s EXP45 is another standout, with stainless steel wire mesh built into the 400D nylon body to guard against theft. At the thinner end, Matador’s GlobeRider45 uses a mix of mostly 100 and 420D fabrics, although the nylon body is coated with a PU laminate to boost weather and abrasion resistance, and Matador included reinforcements in high-wear areas.  

Other durability-related additions to keep an eye out for are thick padding along the interior to promote structure and protect your belongings, weather-resistant details like YKK zippers and DWR coatings on the outside to fend off precipitation, and thicker materials at the base to help protect the pack when you set it down. And we should note here that cost often correlates pretty closely with overall quality. In other words, a budget pack like the Amazon Basics Carry-On Travel Backpack feels noticeably cheaper than most other options above and will likely wear down far more quickly. If you’re a frequent traveler, it’s almost certainly worth investing in a pricier and more premium option that will last.  

The weight spread isn’t huge among travel pack designs, but even a 1-pound difference may still be noticeable during long treks across town or the airport. For reference, the lightest options on our list are Eagle Creek’s Tour 40L and Topo Designs’ Global Travel Bag 30L (both 2 lb. 10 oz.), while the Osprey Farpoint 70 is the heaviest at 5 pounds 6.6 ounces. Most models fall somewhere in the middle, with the majority of 40- to 45-liter designs hovering somewhere between 3 and 4.5 pounds. In the end, weight won’t be a primary consideration for many travelers, but those backpacking through Europe or expecting to cover serious ground will probably want to shop toward the lighter end.  

Unlike their backpacking pack counterparts, travel packs are most often only offered in a single unisex option. This can make it difficult to dial in fit, especially for those with particularly narrow or broad builds. One exception above is the Eagle Creek Tour 40L , which is offered in both S/M and M/L torso sizes, while a couple others (which we cover below) are sold in dedicated women’s models for better customizing fit. Regardless of which option you choose, we always recommend trying on multiple packs before buying to see which fits you best (or at least purchasing from a reputable manufacturer with a generous return policy). You’ll want to be sure that you can adjust the shoulder straps and waist belt to be snug around your torso and waist. Sternum straps and load lifters can also be helpful for bringing the load closer to your back to maximize comfort and weight distribution.

As we mentioned above, most travel packs are unisex by design. In fact, only one model on our list is offered in a dedicated women’s-specific version: the Osprey Fairview (the Farpoint’s counterpart). Key differences include varying colorways, minor weight variations, and slightly smaller torso and waist measurements. The Fairview also has more contoured shoulder straps and a curved hipbelt to better conform to narrower torsos/shoulders and larger hips, although the packs share an otherwise identical overall construction and feature set. Regardless of designation, we always recommend choosing the pack that fits you best.  

In 2024, it’s pretty common to see pack manufacturers incorporating eco-friendly practices into production, including measures like recycled and bluesign-approved fabrics and PFAS/PFC-free DWR coatings. A couple examples include Pacsafe’s Venturesafe EXP45, which uses polyester that's made from recycled water bottles and other plastics, and Patagonia’s Black Hole Mini MLC 30L, which uses recycled and bluesign-approved (i.e., environmentally safe) polyester and is certified to the Fair Trade standard. A final feature to look out for is a PFC-free DWR coating, which forgoes the use of per- or polyfluorinated chemicals—"forever chemicals" known to be harmful to the environment. With many states stepping up to ban the sale of items that include PFCs, the outdoor industry is seeking better solutions for water- and stain-resistant finishes (for more, you can read about Patagonia’s take on the issue ).  

Packing your travel pack can often feel like playing a hard game of Tetris, especially for those of us who aren’t great at traveling light (this author included). To help, many of the brands above offer compatible accessories for their packs, from packing cubes to protective hard cases for electronics and more. Importantly, these add-ons are often modular and fit neatly into the main compartment of a compatible backpack. Some of our favorites include Topo Designs’ Pack Bags , Peak Design’s Packing Cubes and Tech Pouches, and Eagle Creek’s Pack-It compression cubes. In the end, these accessories aren't a necessary purchase for many travelers (and you certainly don't need to buy them from the same manufacturer as your pack), but they can go a long way toward maximizing organization and space and streamlining your load.  

The packs above make it easy and comfortable to shuttle your belongings across the globe, but not everyone needs a specialized design for travel. Duffel bags are another popular way to fly with a lot of clothing and gear, and many modern designs come with deployable backpack straps for more easily hauling through airports and around urban areas. However, duffels lack the impressive assortment of dedicated storage compartments and pockets for items like keys, passports, and electronics, are generally less comfortable to carry over long distances, and often don’t meet carry-on size requirements.  

Alternatively, some travelers may opt to use a standard backpacking pack . This can make a lot of sense when you’re traveling to hike, backpack, or embark on other adventures and plan to use your pack both for travel and for outdoor use when you arrive. Again, however, the lack of travel-specific features and organization options can make it harder to effectively divvy up your belongings. In the end, if you plan to fly domestically or abroad with any regularity (more than a couple times a year), we think most will find the investment in a dedicated travel pack worth it. Back to Our Top Travel Backpack Picks   Back to Our Travel Pack Comparison Table

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The 15 Best Packable Backpacks for Travel [2023]

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

806 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 63 U.S. States Visited: 9

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

36 Published Articles 3307 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 47 U.S. States Visited: 28

Table of Contents

Things to consider with packable backpacks, the 15 best packable backpac ks for travel, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our  Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Portability

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

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

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

Shoulder Straps

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

1. The Best Big Brand Small Daypack

Osprey ultralight stuff pack.

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

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

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

What We Like

• Perfect packable daypack for regular adventurers

What We Don’t Like

• It could be improved with a little extra support

2. Comfortable and Breathable Daypack

The north face flyweight packable travel backpack.

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

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

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

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

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

3. Spacious Packable Daypack With Wet Pocket

Outlander 35l lightweight packable daypack.

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

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

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

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

4. Lightweight Backpack for Fashion-conscious Adventurers

Herschel packable casual daypack.

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

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

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

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

5. Premium Look and Feel

Tumi – voyageur just in case backpack.

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

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

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

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

6. Budget Packable Backpack

Onetrail 30l packable hiking daypack.

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

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

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

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

7. Strong and Lightweight Everyday Daypack

Neekfox 35l ultralight daypack.

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

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

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

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

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

8. Heavy-duty Packable Backpack for Year-round Use

Zomake small hiking backpack.

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

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

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

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

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

9. Compact Packable Daypack That Folds up Super Small

4monster hiking daypack.

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

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

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

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

10. The Best Minimalist Packable Backpack

Hikpro 20l daypack.

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

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

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

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

11. Ultralightweight Daypack With Lots of Color Options

Miycoo 45l lightweight packable backpack.

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

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

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

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

12. Perfect Foldable Backpack for Emergencies

Waterfly lightweight packable hiking backpack.

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

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

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

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

13. The Best Backpack for Your Laptop

Sinotron 22l lightweight packable backpack.

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

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

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

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

14. Designer Foldable Backpack for Cool Customers

Eddie bauer stowaway packable 20l daypack.

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

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

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

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

15. Safest Backpack for Tech-loving Travelers

Travsessed anti-theft travel backpack.

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

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

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

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

• Versatile and durable
• It is a little pricey

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What are packable backpacks.

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

What is the capacity of a packable backpack?

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

Are packable backpacks as comfortable as regular backpacks?

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

What features should I look for in a packable backpack?

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

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About Amar Hussain

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

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27 Best Packable Backpack Options for Every Kind of Traveler

When traveling the world, for a weekend or a year, having the right bag for your adventures – a larger bag for flights and a smaller backpack for daily adventures – can add a lot of comfort and ease to your wandering, but carrying too many backpacks can create a problem of clutter. 

The solution is to bring a packable backpack or collapsible daypack to use for day-to-day sightseeing and wandering then collapse and pack into your travel pack between smaller adventures.  However, knowing which packable daypack is right for you – the waterproof one, the collapsible laptop bag, the durable tactical bag, etc. – can be confusing.  Don’t worry!  I’ve got you covered!

In this article, we’ll review the best packable backpack options for every need and style of travel.  Waterproof, tough, hiking focused, ultralight, budget, laptop bags, and more. 

Read on to discover the best packable daypack options for convenient and lightweight travel!

This article contains affiliate links

CONTENTS OF THIS LIST OF BEST PACKABLE DAYPACK OPTIONS

• What is a packable daypack
• Quick List of the Best Packable Backpacks
• Why You Need a Compressible Daypack for Travel
• Compressible daypack or regular Everyday Carry (EDC) backpack?
• What to Look for in a good compressible daypack
• Best Packable Laptop Backpacks
• Best Anti-theft Compressible Backpacks
• Best Waterproof Packable Backpacks
• Best Compressible Hiking Backpacks
• Most Durable Packable Backpacks
• The Full List of the Best Packable Daypacks

WHY YOU NEED A COMPRESSIBLE DAYPACK FOR TRAVEL

Having a smaller backpack sized for daily needs makes travel easier. In addition, having a compressible daypack allows you to pack it away and still travel with only a single travel backpack.

Taking a daypack is essential to daily life during travel. Having a small backpack that stows away easily gives you a lightweight, comfy, and convenient option for carrying what you need for the day (water, snacks, smartphone, tablet, a book, etc.) whether you’re on a walking tour through the city, visiting a café or coworking space to work, or wandering on a short hike.

Taking a packable daypack allows you to pack it into your single carry-on travel backpack. As a result, fewer bags to carry or check on flights make travel easier.   With this approach, you can collapse the packable daypack into your main bag and only carry a single bag. Ideally, a carryon sized backpack, avoiding checking bags.

A bonus of carrying a packable daypack is once you get through airport security or get ready to board a bus or any long haul travel, you can unpack the daypack and fill it with items you need for the trip to keep close while stowing your larger bag.

A QUICK LIST OF THE BEST PACKABLE DAYPACK OPTIONS

Best packable backpacks.

• WANDRD  Veer (18L) (Full Featured)
• Grey Ghost Gear Hideout Tactical Compressible Backpack (11L) (Durable)
• Matador Freerain24 2.0 Waterproof Rolltop Closure Backpack (24L) (Waterproof)
• YNOT Deploy Packable Daypack with Waterproof X-Pac Cloth and water guard zippers (15L) (Waterproof)
• Loctote Flak Sack II (13L) (Anti-theft)
• Tortuga Outbreaker Daypack (21L) (Laptop Bag)
• Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Tote Pack 27L (Multi-functional)

WATER RESISTANT & WATERPROOF

• Osprey Ultralight Dry Stuff Pack
• Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Travel Dry Daypack (Waterproof)
• YNOT Deploy Packable Daypack with Waterproof X-Pac Cloth and water guard zippers
• Matador Freerain24 2.0 Waterproof Rolltop Closure Backpack

LAPTOP BAGS

• Tortuga Outbreaker Daypack
• Aer Go Pack (21L)

ANTI-THEFT COMPRESSIBLE BACKPACKS

• Loctote Flak Sack II

BEST FOR HIKING

• Patagonia ultralight Black Hole Pack (20L)
• Matador Beast 28 Technical Packable Backpack (28L)
• Matador Beast 18 Technical Packable Backpack
• REI Flash 22
• REI Flash 18
• Grey Ghost Gear Hideout Tactical Compressible Backpack (11L)
• LL Bean Stowaway Pack (22L)
• Eagle Creek Packable Daypack (13L)
• YNOT Deploy Packable Daypack (15L)
• Mystery Ranch In and Out Packable Daypack (19L)
• Tom Bihn Packing Cube Backpack
• Tortuga Setout Packable Daypack

BEST ULTRALIGHT COMPRESSIBLE DAYPACKS

• Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack
• Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Travel Daypack (Water resistant)
• REI Stuff Travel Daypack

ECO-FRIENDLY

• Cotopaxi Luzon Del Dia 18 (18L)
• Cotopaxi Batac 16 (16L)

GENERAL TRAVEL PACKS

• Fjallraven Kanken (16L)
• Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Tote Pack (27L)
• Arcteryx Index 15 (15L)

( Click here to jump to the full list of packs )

COMPRESSIBLE DAYPACK OR REGULAR EVERYDAY CARRY (EDC) BACKPACK? WHICH IS BETTER FOR YOU?

If you carry very light loads (<5kgs) daily, a packable bag is good. However, if you carry a lot, get a regular daypack.

We know that having a daypack is essential for easy travel daily, but should you take a compressible daypack or a regular, sturdy everyday carry backpack?

First – what is the difference between a packable daypack and a normal everyday carry backpack?

Packable daypacks are collapsible and lightweight, usually weighing less than 1 pound, and generally lack a rigid back panel or internal support.  This adds up to a small backpack that collapses into itself and takes up very little space and weight in your main backpack when traveling.

Additionally, because packable daypacks tend to be physically lighter, they are made of lighter materials, reducing the packable daypacks’ durability relative to “normal” backpacks.

Ultimately, if you plan to carry heavier loads daily – more than 10lbs or 5kg – you may want Potential Flawsider to bring a normal, sturdier daypack. 

Bringing a normal daypack with a back panel and heavier material will be more comfortable under heavier loads (20lbs/10kg+). In addition, it will allow the bag to last longer.

HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE OF THE BEST PACKABLE BACKPACK OPTIONS

This Potential Flawstantly updated list contains the 30+ best packable backpack options.  Though I’m certain a perfect pack for you is on this list, not every pack on this list will be great for you – and that is by design.

Every traveler and their specific gear needs are different.  This list presents all of the best packable daypack choices, narrowed by category – full-featured, budget, waterproof, hiking focused, and ultra-light.  Start by jumping to the best compressible daypack category for you. From there, filter through the great 5 to 6 packs we’ve identified for you.

Any more questions?  Drop them in the comments, and I’ll do my best to help you narrow down to the best pack for you.

My Experience with packable daypacks

For 3+ years, I used the REI Flash 18 compressible daypack tucked inside my larger 40-liter REI travel bag during flights and on my back daily while wandering South America and Southeast Asia.  This tiny, collapsible backpack was perfect, and I loved it!  With this setup, I always had an option for carrying my daily needs while still staying light abiding by my “one bag travel” philosophy – flying with only a single bag whenever I fly.

However, as much as I love the lightweight and simplicity of the REI Flash 18, I understand that it isn’t perfect for all travelers – though I think every traveler should have a collapsible daypack for convenience.

Along the way, during the four years of travel, I’ve tested tens of lightweight packs, stopped and talked to travelers in South America, Europe, and South America about the bags on their backpacks, and meticulously researched what separates good, durable, high quality, comfortable backpacks from the rest.

Over 55+ countries traveled 100’s of flights, trains, buses, and boats, 1000’s of miles hiked, and countless travel gear reviews; I’ve become an expert at assessing the best gear for travel – especially backpacks

The bottom line: if you are traveling, you NEED a packable daypack!  The benefits are too many to count!  And in this article, I’ll help you find the best packable backpack for you.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A GOOD COMPRESSIBLE DAYPACK

• Sturdy straps
• Easy to stowaway, ideally packing into its stuff sack
• Good organization and plenty of zippered pockets for money, keys, and external water bottle pocket
• Durable fabric (ideally high denier nylon), heavy stitching, and bar-tacks for strength
• Water and weather resistant cloth and zippers
• Use and need specific suitability: waterproof, designed for hiking, ultralight, etc.

THE FULL LIST OF THE BEST PACKABLE DAYPACK OPTIONS

1. wandrd veer (18l).

A meticulously designed 18-liter packable daypack, fully fitted with an inflatable backpanel, making for maximum comfort while still taking up minimal space in your larger bag.  Water-resistant outer cloth and zippers add protection: Daisy chain webbing and zippable external pockets round this out as a very functional bag.

• Inflatable back panel
• Weather-resistant fabric and zippers
• Daisy chain lined exterior
• Several separate pockets and compartments
• Potential Flaws
• Where to buy: Wandrd.com

2. Grey Ghost Gear Hideout Tactical Compressible Backpack (11L)

A military tough compressible backpack designed as a quick deploy sack for raids.  Though it’s light and simple, this bag was designed for and proven in combat level abuse.  I used one for a few months and loved it as well as highly recommend it.

• Best Features: Tough fabric and well stitched/reinforced shoulder straps stand up to solid abuse.
• 11L capacity, 12” x 9.5” x 5” dimensions, 1lb weight
• Price: $55 at Amazon.com or $36 at OpticsPlanet
• Where to buy: $ 55 at Amazon.com or $36 at OpticsPlanet.com

3. LL BEAN STOWAWAY DAY PACK (22L)

A tough and durable full-featured pack designed to carry 100lbs of gear that still ways in at 14oz. and packs into a tiny pocket.

• Has all of the functions of a “normal” backpack
• Padded shoulder straps
• Tough nylon exterior material
• Two external water bottle pockets
• Stows into its pocket
• 22 liter capacity, 19″H x 10″W x 7″D dimensions, 14oz. weight
• Price: ~$50
• Where to buy: LL Bean Online

4. Matador Freerain24 2.0 Waterproof Rolltop Closure Backpack (24L)

  A 100% waterproof and compressible daypack with rolltop closure that packs down into its own stuff sack.

• 30 denier waterproof siliconized Cordura with a polyurethane coating and a seam-sealed main compartment for waterproofing.
• External water bottle pockets
• 24-liter capacity, 6.6 oz weight
• Where to buy: Amazon.com

5. YNOT Deploy Packable Daypack (15L) WITH X-PAC CLOTH – WATER RESISTANCE

Simple, straightforward, and durable.  The YNOT Deployable Daypack combines 500 and 600 denier Cordura nylon or X-Pac cloth stitched together with heavy-duty nylon thread, reinforced bar tack stitching, and car seat belt reinforced shoulder straps.  This pack also folds into its internal pocket.

• There’s also a waterproof X-Pac cloth version of the YNOT Deploy pack that also incorporates water guard zippers for a seriously waterproof pack
• Best Features
• 15 liter capacity, 16″x 10″ x 4″ dimensions,
• Where to buy: YNOTMade.com

6. Loctote Flak Sack II (13L)

A super secure and theft-resistant tote style bag built to an ANSI A9 cut resistance level to the high level of cut, tear, and abrasion resistance available in fabric.

• Steel reinforced locking and included combo lock allow you to lock the bag to an object for security along with cut-resistant ropes.
• Fleece-lined RFID blocking pocket protects credit cards and passports from “swiping” scams
• Learn more about the long list of security features at Loctote.com
• 13-liter capacity, 18” x 14” dimensions, 2lbs weight
• Price: $169

7. TORTUGA OUTBREAKER DAYPACK (21L) – LAPTOP BAG

A lightweight, packable laptop bag made of waterproof cloth and incorporating well-padded straps and back panel

• It’s a portable laptop bag and super lightweight at just under 1lb
• Waterproof XPAC Sailcloth throughout
• Thisbag doesn’t compress into itself
• Where to buy: TortugaBackpacks.com

8. Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Tote Pack (27L ) – GENERAL USE

A multi-functional, compressible tote that carries like a backpack, shoulder straps, or a tote/briefcase via handles on top.  Delivers all of the best features of a daypack, tote, and compressible backpack.

• Made of 100% recycled nylon
• Internal zip pocket for keys and valuables
• External zippered pockets allow easy storage and access
• Two stretch water bottle pockets
• Stuffs into its pocket
• 27-liter capacity, 15.5″ x 10.25″ x 8″, 13.1oz.
• Where to buy: Patagonia.com

9. Osprey Ultralight Dry Stuff Pack (20L)

A great multi-use rolltop drybag that performs equally well as a daypack.  If you’re not carrying too much weight, this compressible bag is suited for virtually any urban or outdoors adventure

• Extremely compact for a dry bag
• Tucks away into its pocket
• Slightly flimsy
• 20L capacity,  18” X 10” X 9”, 6oz. weight
• Where to buy: Osprey.com

10. SEA TO SUMMIT ULTRA-SIL TRAVEL DRY DAYPACK (22L)

An ultralight, roll-top waterproofed bag made of waterproof fabric, with water-resistant, double-stitched, and taped seams that pack down small into its pocket.  If you need an all-weather-friendly packable daypack option, this is it!

If you intend to dunk this pack underwater or be exposed to rain for extended periods, consider pairing this pack with another internal roll-top dry bag such as this .

• Made of fully waterproof fabric – 30 denier Ultra-sil siliconized Cordura fabric
• Double-stitched seams sealed with polyurethane tape for more water resistance
• This daypack packs down into its tiny stuff sack
• This pack isn’t intended to be submerged – use a full roll-top dry bag if you plan to do that
• 22L capacity, 8 x 4 x 19 in / 20 x 10 x 48 cm dimensions, 3.8oz. weight
• Price: ~$60
• Where to buy: Seatosummitusa.com

11. Aer Go Pack (21L)

A stylish, practical, and durable yet functional compressible daypack meticulously designed for consummate travelers

• Tough 300 denier Cordura exterior
• High-quality hardware (YKK, Duraflex, Fidlock) throughout
• Accommodates a 13” laptop
• Interior zippered security pocket
• Lifetime warranty
• 21.4 liters, 16.9″ x 11.8″ x 5″ dimensions, 1lb
• Where to buy: Aersf.com

12. Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Pack (20L )

Patagonia pieced together a durable and simple stuff sack that compresses into itself and is lined with features that make it perfect for more outdoorsy adventures and the gear you’ll take with you.  Drawstring and s-clip closure make for no zippers and less to go wrong.

Daisy chained exterior makes it easy to clip gear to the outside.  Deep side pockets may not fit larger water bottles while the bag is fully packed but allow you to carry more on the trip easily

• Durable and water-resistant fabric (70 denier nylon coated with silicon and polyurethane)
• Stuffs into its own pocket
• Features: External Daisy chain for gear,
• Water bottle pockets are slightly tight for larger water bottles
• Where to buy: Backcountry.com

13. Matador Beast28 and Beast18 Packable Technical Backpack (28L and 18L)

This technically-focused hiking backpack delivers the durability, frame support, and pockets/straps/features a daypack needs to be sufficient for trekking.  All while still packing down into its pocket.

Flexible wire suspension system frame with EVA foam back panel that simply twists and folds, compressing this pack down into a flat disc

Waterproofing coated 210 denier nylon fabric delivers durability and water resistance

• Bar-tack reinforced stitching and seems
• Oversized external water bottle pockets, u-zipped main pocket with two zippered internal pockets
• 28-liter capacity, 11 x 22 x 7inches dimensions, 1lb 8 oz. weight for Matador Beast28
• 18-liter capacity, 1lbs 5oz weight for Matador Beast18
• Where to buy: $150 for Amazon.com for the Beast28 and $135 for Amazon.com for the Beast18

14. EAGLE CREEK PACKABLE DAYPACK (13L)

Eagle Creek is a classic and trusted traveler brand, and they’ve delivered with this packable daypack made of tougher than average but still lightweight materials and lockable zippers

• Securable and lockable zippers
• More durable fabric than other packs on this list (70D nylon)
• No internal organization
• Price: $36.95
• Where to buy: EagleCreek.com

15. Mystery Ranch In and Out Packable Daypack (19L)

This tough compressible daypack combines all of the pockets and features you’d expect in a normal backpack while still folding into its front pocket.  Mystery Ranch is known for making tough and functional packs, so this one is worth the investment

• Packs down into itself
• Mesh, breathable shoulder straps, side compression straps, external water bottle pockets, and water bladder pocket and hole for the hose
• Two external zippered pockets
• Tough 100 denier Cordura fabric
• Tight side pockets make carrying a water bottle in them slightly tough.
• 19 liter capacity, 16.25″x 9.5″ x 8.25″ dimensions, .9lbs weight
• Where to buy: MysteryRanch.com

16. TOM BIHN PACKING CUBE BACKPACK (16L)

Simple and basic – a packing cube that doubles as a daypack. Don’t expect too much and you won’t be disappointed.  This bag is simple, minimalist, straightforward, and perfect for “onebaggers”

• Doubles as a packing cube so it doesn’t waste any space in your bag
• Thin straps would be uncomfortable under too much weight (~7kg+)
• Lack of internal pockets will make staying organized difficult
• 16L capacity, 17.5″ x 13″ x 4″, 9.5oz.
• Where to buy: TomBihn.com

17. TORTUGA SETOUT PACKABLE DAYPACK (19L)

This simple, packable daypack delivers the comfort and function features that experienced travelers want.  Designed much like the Tortuga Outbreaker Daypack, except packable. 

Padded shoulder straps and breathable mesh back panel.30 denier waterproof ripstop nylon with lockable zippers packs down to a (7″ x 5″ x 2.5″ when packed) cube

• Good organization with front zippered pocket and side water bottle pockets
• Breathable mesh padding makes for comfortable shoulders and back
• Weather and water resistance
• Great Price
• Water bottle pockets max out at 3 inches in diameter for water bottles
• 19L, 17.5” x 11.5” x 5″, 8.5oz.

18. REI Flash 22 (22L)

A lightweight, packable, hiking daypack geared for adventures beyond the city.  Also, an all-around great bag if you’re traveling light.

• Hiking centric features: External water bottle pockets, hiking pole holster, water bladder holder
• Comfy, mesh back panel, with removable plastic back insert
• Additional top pocket for storage
• Geared more for lightweight outdoors activities, straps aren’t built for carrying a laptop
• Price: $ 54.95
• Where to buy: Rei.com

19. REI Flash 18 (18L)

Just as awesome as the REI Flash 22 but without the top pocket!

• Extremely lightweight
• Great for the price
• No water bottle pockets
• Price: $39.95
• Where to buy: REI.com

20. Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack (18L)

• Extremely small and compact
• Great price
• Not enough internal pockets make it hard to keep organized
• 18L capacity, 17” X 9” X 7” dimensions, 4oz. weight

21. SEA TO SUMMIT ULTRA-SIL TRAVEL DAYPACK (20L)

Waterproof fabric (but not the zippers) and ultralight build.This simple and lightweight yet straightforward pack gets the job done with ease.  Rated Backpacker’s Editor’s Choice Gold Award in 2017, and the staff claim to use the bag quite a bit.

• Packs down small and fits into its pouch
• Water-resistant: This pack is made of siliconized Cordura waterproof material; however, the stitching is not waterproof
• Bartack reinforced stitching on all stress points for durability and reinforced shoulder straps for durability and comfort
• Recommended load limit of 15lbs/7kgs
• Max capacity of 15lbs
• 20 Liter capacity, 11 x 8 x 19 in / 28 x 20 x 48 cm dimensions
• Price: ~$40

22. REI Stuff Travel Daypack (20L)

A minimalist, straightforward, and ultralight travel stuff pack.  U-top closure and rucksack style design.  If you just want a cheap sack to toss things in and stowaway letter, consider the REI Stuff Travel Daypack

• No internal pockets or organization
• Price: $34.95

23. COTOPAXI LUZON DEL DIA 18L

A simple, stuff sack styled bag with drawstring closure, mesh shoulder straps (for comfort and breathability), water bladder pocket, and a zippered front pocket

• Insanely fun color options
• Made from repurposed fabric (and reducing waste)
• Drawstring closure makes the bag less secure in urban environments
• Lack of structure may be off-putting to some
• Where to buy: Cotopaxi.com

24. Cotopaxi Batac 16L Daypack

Colorfullyfun and made from responsibly sourced materials, this unstructured daypack “sac” uses the fabric remnants from the garment and backpack industry (saving them from landfills) to make a backpack that naturally creates less waste. Simple. Functional.  Kinda awesome looking.

• External side pockets
• Breathable mesh shoulder straps
• Light yet tough ripstop nylon fabric
• Large, open main compartment
• 16 liter capacity, 19 x 11 x 4in dimensions, 12oz.
• Some customers didn’t receive the exact color scheme they wanted – due to the fact that fabric used in these packs are remnant materials and not ordered to spec, I recommend expecting the possibility of getting the “wrong color,” but still in a great pack.

25. FJALLRAVEN KANKEN (16L)

Not the most versatile or technical, however, this stylish and trendy bookbag makes a great “travel briefcase.”  For digital nomads looking for a daypack that doubles as a book bag or briefcase, the Fjallraven Kanken is a great option.  Classic looks, durable fabric, and a durable build make up for this bag’s lack of packability and adventure-ready function. 

This bag isn’t necessarily the most “packable.” Still, the soft-sided structure and lack of a rigid back panel mean you can roll it up and strap it to the side/bottom of a larger bag.

• Easily holds a laptop and books
• Works well as a digital nomad-friendly “travel briefcase.”
• Bulky and doesn’t pack down much.  Best for rolling up and strapping to the side of a larger bag
• 16 liter capacity, 14.9″ (38 cm) x 10.6″ (27 cm) x 5.1″ (13 cm) size, .7lbs
• Price: ~$75

26. Arc’teryx Index 15 (15L)

“Lean, simple, light, and compact,” as described by legendary pack builder Arcteryx.  This top-loading, summit pack-inspired bag packs down flat to go unnoticeably into your larger bag.

• 15-liter capacity, 8oz. weight
• Where to buy: Acteryx.com

OTHER GREAT PACKABLE DAYPACKS

• Gonex Ultra Lightweight Packable Backpack ** (Budget)
• Outlander Packable Travel Daypack ** (Budget)
• AmazonBasics Ultralight Packable Day Pack** (Budget)
• Naturehike Ultralight Foldable Daypack ** (Budget)
• Scuba Pro Mini Dry Bag (15L)**: (Waterproof)
• Visla High Seas 22L Dry Backpack* * (Waterproof)
• Hyperlite Stuff Pack ** (High-tech)

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Carlos is a nomad, slow traveler, and writer dedicated to helping others live abroad and travel better by using his 7+ years of experience living abroad and background as a management consultant and financial advisor to help other nomad and expats plot better paths for an international lifestyle. Click here to learn more about Carlos's story.

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• Travel Products
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• Backpacks, Totes + Small Bags

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

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

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips For Buying
• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure/Joy Kim

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

We evaluated 89 carry-on backpacks in more than seven separate tests in our New York City lab and even utilized our airplane set — complete with a row of real plane seats and overhead storage bins — during the process. We then took each bag out into the world for at least six months to test its worth on a variety of trips.

Why I'm the Expert

After taking part in every single backpack test we've done since 2022, personally testing more than 50 bags, and even owning two packs from this list, including our best overall winner, I'm confident there is a carry-on backpack for every type of traveler here.

Best Overall

Cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack.

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

I've used this pack for over four years and I'm confident I can fit more in it than a carry-on.

There isn’t a designated water bottle holder.

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

During testing, we weren't surprised to see that the durable-feeling materials weren't damaged at all after we repeatedly tossed the bag onto the ground. Aside from testing this bag in our lab, I personally own it and have used it for countless trips in the last four years. The quality hasn't wavered in the slightest and I typically reach for the bag since I can fit more than I could in a carry-on. Plus, with the rising costs of bringing luggage on an airplane, this bag has been a real money-saver since I can usually fit my personal items inside, too.

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

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Travel + leisure / Jhett Thompson

Best for Long Trips

Away the outdoor convertible backpack 45l.

• Design 4.5 /5

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

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

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

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

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

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Best Budget

Asenlin 40l travel backpack.

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

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

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

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

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

Best for Photographers

Peak design travel backpack 45l.

• Value 4.5 /5

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

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

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

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

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

Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph

Best Compression

Tropicfeel shell backpack.

• Design 4 /5
• Comfort 4 /5

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

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

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

The Shell Backpack didn’t show any signs of damage throughout testing, and the material is weather-proof. For travelers looking to add upgrades to their backpacks, the brand has an organization system and accessory pouches that you can add on for additional fees. If you need an all-in-one backpack, we think this backpack’s versatility makes it well worth the higher cost. Bonus, if you want a sustainable backpack , this one is made from made 100 percent recycled nylon and 64 percent recycled polyester. 

The Details: 20 to 42 liters | 12 x 20 x 7.5 inches | 3.3 pounds | Recycled polyester

Best Organization

Topo designs global travel bag 30l.

• Capacity 4 /5

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

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

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

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

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

Best Expandable

Nomatic travel pack.

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

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

Some of the pockets feel unnecessary.

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

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

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

• Travel + Leisure/Jessica Juliao

Matein Travel Backpack

• Comfort 4.8 /5
• Durability 4.3 /5

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

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

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

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

Best Waterproof

Tortuga travel backpack.

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

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

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

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

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

Travel + Leisure / Taylor Fox

Best for Foot Travel

Osprey fairview 40.

The compartments and various straps made packing effortless. 

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

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

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

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

Travel + Leisure /Jhett Thompson

Best Convertible

Calpak terra 26l laptop duffel backpack.

With a modular design, we loved being able to carry this spacious pack as a duffel or backpack.

We found it was most comfortable to carry as a backpack when packed full.

The two-in-one design of this carry-on backpack from Calpak makes it the perfect piece of luggage to add to your collection. If you need to carry the backpack long distances, the padded straps offer plenty of comfort to protect the shoulders from feeling the weight of the pack, and they can be tucked away when they're not needed. For rushing off an airplane or grabbing the pack quickly, the duffel bag strap makes it easy to sling the pack over the shoulder within seconds. In testing, senior commerce editor Lydia Price preferred using the backpack straps after noting that the generous padding in the back and on the straps made the bag noticeably more comfortable to carry. I also own this bag and prefer to use the backpack straps, but I love having the option to carry it multiple ways as my needs change on the go.

Although the bag is medium-sized with a 26-liter capacity, it still has plenty of room to fit enough clothing for four or five days' worth of traveling thanks to the numerous pockets. The clamshell-style opening also makes it easy to organize items between the two compartments. The ripstop polyester fabric didn't scuff or scratch during our durability tests and we especially love that the outer material is water-resistant, which is helpful for all types of adventuring from urban to outdoor settings.

The Details: 26 liters | 18 x 12 x 7.5 inches | 2.9 pounds | Recycled ripstop polyester | 17-inch padded laptop pocket

Other Carry-on Backpacks We Liked

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

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

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

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

On more than seven separate occasions, we tested carry-on backpacks in our New York City lab to make sure we were creating this list with the best options from trusted luggage brands. For our latest tests, we built a specially designed airplane set that includes a row of real airplane seats and an overhead storage bin. To date, we've put over 89 carry-on backpacks through a series of trials that compared capacity, design, comfort, durability, and overall value. After completing our in-house testing, we sent the backpacks out with our Travel + Leisure editors to give us insight into how they fared during real-world travel. We have been updating this article with long-term testing insights as soon as they become available. 

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

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

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

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

Tips for Buying a Carry-on Backpack

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

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

Keep in mind what the bag will be used for

It may seem obvious, but to find the perfect travel backpack you need to first consider its primary function. For those traveling by foot, a smaller, lightweight backpack would be better for portability and comfort. For those traveling by air, a compression bag or backpack that has plentiful organization could be a better choice so you get the most out of the limited airline baggage space. When traveling by air, you might also want to consider an option with wheels for added convenience, like a rolling backpack, weekender, or duffel bag .

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

After moving to New York City in the spring of 2022 to test travel gear for T+L, Anna Popp has spent countless hours personally testing more than 50 backpacks including bags on this list from Cotopaxi, Calpak, Peak Design, and Nomatic. She has been traveling with our top pick for more than four years — and even had to get everyone in her family the same bag so they would stop stealing hers.

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Related Articles

The 10 Best Daypacks of 2024

Small packs for hiking, travel and more.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Whether you are a beginner hiker planning your first day hike or are heading on a vacation centered around outdoor day trips, sometimes you want a lighter pack that fits all of the essentials while still looking stylish and feeling comfortable. Daypacks are a great versatile addition to your collection as they are typically lighter than hiking backpacks and having a smaller capacity.

Our top picks:

Best Overall Daypack

Osprey tempest 20 daypack.

Best Value Daypack

Osprey daylite plus daypack.

Best Packable Daypack

Sea to summit ultra-sil travel daypack.

At the end of the guide, you can find more information on what to look for when shopping as well as what really is the difference between a daypack and a backpack. Any one of these daypacks would also be a great camping gift for the camper in your life.

Osprey hiking backpacks are consistently a top performer in GH Institute Textiles Lab tests. The Tempest 20 is part of a popular line by the brand and balances technical features with a lower capacity, ideal for daypacks. We appreciate the breathable back panel made from injection-molded, die-cut foam as well as a continuous-wrap harness and hip belt. Lightweight and versatile, this daypack has internal zippered mesh pockets, including easy-access harness pockets.

While you may be less inclined to use the pack's additional features for more casual hikes, like its tuck-away ice ax attachment, you may find the trekking pole attachment and hydration reservoir sleeve useful even on a shorter trail. The daypack is available in five different colors, from purple to grey and comes in two different sizes (extra small/small and medium/large). At $160, you're getting a lot of bang for your buck with this pack — but it may have a bit too many bells and whistles for a beginner hiker.

For less than half the price of the Tempest 20, you can still purchase a daypack from Osprey while sticking to a budget. The Daylite family is one of its most popular lines and the Plus carries an extra 7 liters compared to the regular Daylite . It also comes in a range of colors so you can find the style that works for you, whether that's a neutral black (pictured) or a fun purple and green combo. For less than $75, you'll get an impressive amount of features including an interior sleeve for a hydration reservoir, laptop or tablet as well as two mesh water bottle pockets and various front pockets.

We tested this model by Osprey in our latest travel backpack test and testers loved the variety of compartments and comfortable shoulder straps. The front panel and shove-it pockets are great for storing hiking maps, granola bars and your phone without having to dig for them in the main compartment. Our analysts also noted the chest strap, which keeps weight evenly distributed so as to prevent shoulder pain. Although this daypack lacks a harness and hip belt, those features may not be as necessary for a more casual day hiker.

Not only is this daypack under $50 (while still having a 20 L capacity!), it also weighs an astonishing 2.5 ounces. This ultra-lightweight pack is made from water-resistant nylon and can fold down to the size of an egg , per the brand's description. You can easily pack this pack in a larger backpack for backpacking or fit it in your suitcase for outdoor adventures on vacation. Available in three colors, this daypack is top-rated on REI and has a 4.7-star rating.

One five-star review says, "I use this as a daypack while backpacking to avoid lugging my 50L pack more than I needed to. I could pack a large water bottle, lunch, a book, and a small first aide kit with no problems. Surprisingly comfortable to wear despite the weight and minimal design." Others note how simple this Sea to Summit pack is to bring to the mountains, slopes and even Disney . While its packable design has its hallmarks, you may not be able to comfortably carry heavier items as there is no chest strap or padding.

L.L.Bean Stowaway Pack

GH Analyst Olivia Lipski has used this stowaway pack on many hiking trips and ski days. Not only is the daypack lightweight and comfortable, but it also has tons of pockets that can fit both small and large items. "You can put a dog leash in the large front pocket and even stick a jacket on the outside in this non zippered section," explains Olivia. Having these easy access pockets is a game changer during hikes — i.e. when the temperature keeps switching and you find yourself taking off and putting back on a layer.

The pockets for water bottles are also super convenient as you can reach back to grab a drink whenever necessary. It also has padded foam shoulder straps and a back panel for extra comfort, plus a loop for attaching a light. One thing to know is that Olivia says this bag doesn't do great in the rain, so don't bring it on stormy days.

Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole 8L Sling Bag

Sling daypacks have become more popular given their lightweight structure and slightly more hip style. Whether you're doing a casual day hike, biking around town or commuting to the office, the Ultralight Black Hole lets you store everyday essentials without compromising comfort. There will be no awkward twisting to reach inside this sling bag, which has an expandable pocket on the strap perfect for your phone or a bar plus a dual compartment design in the main section.

On top of offering convenient storage, this sling is meant to be water-resistant and has breathable mesh on the strap and back panel for comfort on hotter days. One five-star review says, "I love this sling over bag. It is perfect for walking the dog, small hikes or running errands." One downside to this particular sling is it's slightly more expensive than other picks on this list that have a larger capacity.

Gregory Swift 16 H2O Hydration Pack

You can fit up to 2 L (16 oz.) of liquid in this top-rated hydration pack , or use the zippered reservoir as a laptop sleeve for travel. We appreciate how easy it is to access your water supply thanks to the inline hose quick-disconnect coupling that allows you to refill without unthreading the hose from the harness altogether. The magnetic sternum buckle and hose clip hold the water valve in place on the shoulder harness so you can take a sip whenever you need some H2O.

In addition to hydration-specific features, this daypack also has 3D foam on the back panel for added comfort, a removable hip belt for extra support, zippered side and top pockets, a mesh water bottle pocket and a trekking pole attachment system. One five-star review writes, "I haven't had a hydration pack in years, but this was easy to rinse out for first use, fill, and use. Absolutely no leakage." We wish the pack capacity was slightly higher given the over $100 price tag.

Cotopaxi Luzon Daypack

Given that this pack is super lightweight, you can wear it for extended periods of time without it feeling uncomfortable. It's available in tons of colors and Olivia notes that it's a pretty cool-looking daypack thanks to fun color blocking. Olivia said that this daypack doesn't perform as well in the rain, so don't bring it out on wet days, but says its light weight is perfect for most uses. "Since I injured my knee I’ve been relying on this backpack as it doesn’t add much extra weight and it has a secure pocket in the front that’s useful for storing my chapstick, wallet, etc.," says Olivia.

The comfortable straps are easy to adjust, although the backpack's shape may feel a bit too narrow for some. You'll still be able to fit a jacket inside, though. Also unique to this pack is the drawstring closure on top — which Olivia was unsure of at first but says is super easy to open and close. Plus, you can shove pretty much anything in the main compartment without worrying about it snagging on a zipper. This Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Travel Daypack actually weighs less than the Luzon, but given the former's ability to pack up into such a minuscule size we chose the Ultra-Sil Travel Daypack for best packable.

REI Co-op Traverse 32 Pack

Available in three sizes and two colors, this daypack has a higher capacity great for more serious hiking. It also has a padded harness and hip belt ideal for extra comfort on longer trips, plus the large zippered pockets in the hip belt and tilted water bottle pockets make it easy to grab essentials during the climb. We appreciate the included rain cover for any drizzle or unexpected storms as you approach the summit, as well as the trekking pole keepers and ice axe loop.

According to the manufacturer, this pack was designed with field notes from over 305 miles of backcountry traversing in Washington, Arizona and Oregon. The backpack has a 4.5-star rating on REI, and one five-star review even recommends this for winter hiking, saying: "The pack is roomy enough for several layers, spare gloves, etc. etc. for winter conditions." Several customers note that the chest strap tends to pop off and could be improved, and we wish that it came with a hydration reservoir (although it has a tube holder).

Patagonia Black Hole 25L Travel Pack

Top-rated among REI online customers and loved by our testers in previous testing for carry-on and travel backpacks, this 25 L Patagonia daypack is made from 300-denier water-resistant fabric (meaning it's super thick) and has a 200-denier coating so you can take on a mountain in wet weather without worrying about your pack becoming wet. The daypack has a large main pocket, side water bottle pockets and an internal mesh pocket that has an organizer panel for your phone and other small items, plus a daisy chain on the front for attaching a sleeping bag or anything else you may want.

It has padded shoulder straps and a molded back panel that's designed to help keep you cool and promote airflow. The pack has a 4.6.-star rating on REI and one five-star customer raves, "I have carried it in rural and urban environments and am very pleased! Held up dry for several storms too." Other online reviews note that the bag has survived heavy rain, although some wish that there was a waist strap and mention that the black color gets very hot.

Excursion Backpack

Athleta is known for its aesthetic athleisure clothing, and the brand's bags aren't any less stylish. While this daypack is only available in three colors (snapdragon rose, black and Aspen olive), we love the neutral colors and think it's a chic bag for any day trip or travel destination. This bag has a lightweight design plus side and stash pockets for your water bottle and other essentials . You can adjust the strap to your desired fit and the mesh back panel is designed for extra support.

With over 100 online reviews and a near-perfect 5-star rating, there's a lot to love about this best seller. Customers love the bright pink color in particular as well as the pack's size. The caveat of carrying around a more stylish pack is that you may be more wary of getting it dirty, but if it's a clear day and a relatively tame trail, then you're probably in the clear.

What's the difference between a daypack and a backpack?

To the naked eye, a daypack and a backpack may look pretty similar, but daypacks are specifically meant for day hiking and tend to be made of lightweight materials, designed to be compressible for easy packing and are smaller with still enough capacity for day hiking essentials like a hydration pack and snacks. Meanwhile, hiking backpacks are designed for longer treks and thus have more space to carry a tent, sleeping back, lantern and more. They also have more supportive features like padded shoulder straps and an internal frame.

This isn't to say that there are some hiking backpacks with a smaller capacity that could also function just as well as a daypack (for example, the REI Co-op Traverse 32 Pack ), but typically daypacks are going to be smaller and a bit more basic in features so they don't weight you down on a day hike.

What to look for when shopping for a daypack

As with shopping for any new pack meant for outdoor adventures, there are few factors to keep in mind:

✔️ Capacity: Daypacks can fall anywhere between 8 L and 32 L in capacity. A smaller capacity means it will be lighter and less bulky, but on the flip side you won't be able to bring as many things with you. On the lower end is hydration packs and sling daypacks that are closer to 10 L, while daypacks between 11 L and 20 L are good if you want enough room for water, snacks, a jacket and a few other essentials. Packs between 21 L and 32 L are a great medium range that's more versatile for longer hikes.

✔️ Compartments: Most daypacks are top-loading, but many on this list have more than just a main comportment if organization is important to you. Additional compartments on the straps, hip belt, panel or elsewhere make it easy to grab water or snacks mid-hike as well as keep electronics and wallets in a safe place.

✔️ Materials: The packs on this list are made from nylon and polyester, which are both durable synthetic fabrics perfect for outdoor adventures. Polyester tends to be the less expensive of the two, but if you have room in your budget going with nylon may be worth it. In our previous abrasion resistance testing, nylon proved to be long-lasting. Some brands also list the denier for the daypack's fabric: The higher the denier, the thicker and stronger the fabric is.

✔️ Water-resistance: You don't have to purchase a daypack that is water-resistance but if you want to ensure your pack will endure the rain, Textiles Lab Product Analyst Grace Wu recommends looking "for a pack with a water-repellent finish or a waterproof membrane."

✔️ Features: Some daypacks come with additional features that will make your hiking experience more comfortable. An internal frame will give you back support while a hip belt will help evenly distribute weight across your body. Water bottle pockets, trekking pole or axe attachments and included rain covers are bonus features that may be worth it if you are serious day hiker.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

Elizabeth Berry is the updates editor at the Good Housekeeping Institute, where she ensures lifestyle articles across verticals reflect accurate product information. She enjoys car camping and is ticking off the some of the tallest mountains in Vermont one hike at a time (with her Osprey daypack on her back).

To write this piece Elizabeth worked with Grace Wu , a Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab Product Analyst, to gather picks and more information on daypacks. At the Institute, Grace evaluates fabric-based products using specialized equipment and consumer tester data. She is an avid day hiker who swears by daypacks and has tested and written stories on hiking shoes and hiking socks .

Elizabeth Berry (she/her) is the Updates Editor at the Good Housekeeping Institute where she optimizes lifestyle content across verticals. Prior to this role, she was an Editorial Assistant for Woman’s Day where she covered everything from gift guides to recipes. She also has experience fact checking commerce articles and holds a B.A. in English and Italian Studies from Connecticut College.

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NBC Select Travel Awards 2024: The best duffels, backpacks and weekenders

At NBC Select, we spend hours researching and testing products so you can be more selective with your purchases. For our first-ever NBC Select Travel Awards, we spent months thoroughly testing numerous products covering a variety of travel categories.

We flew across the globe to Japan and Paris with suitcases , took train rides around New York City with weekenders and duffels in tow and packed bags full of packing cubes , toiletry bags and noise-canceling headphones to road trip across the East Coast. After all that testing, our editors sat down to choose products deserving of NBC Select’s stamp of approval.

Below are our award-winning duffels, weekenders and backpacks , plus information about how we evaluated each product.

SKIP AHEAD How we picked the best bags | Best duffel bags | Best backpacks | Best weekender bags

select We tested over 50 travel accessories for our first ever Travel Awards — these are our favorites

How we picked the best travel bags .

The backpack, the weekender and the duffel are all bags that need to serve multiple functions while on a trip. We fill them with whatever we can’t fit in our suitcases, throw our essentials inside them for overnight getaways and use them to carry our laptops and water bottles on planes, trains, and automobiles. They are versatile and multipurpose, making it useful to keep at least one at home when traveling. Here’s how we evaluated travel bags to find NBC Select’s 2024 Travel Award winners.

• Zippers, handles and straps : To ensure zippers glide smoothly and don’t get stuck at any point, we opened and closed each bag numerous times when it was empty and full. We also considered how strong the bags’ handles and straps were, including how they felt when we held or wore them on our bodies.
• Structure and organization : We assessed how each bag’s structure impacted our ability to pack it easily — for example, whether it stayed open while we added clothing or flopped over and whether it was too stiff to overstuff or just flexible enough. We counted how many outfits (and, if applicable, how many pairs of shoes) fit inside the bags, plus what type of organizational features they offer, including built-in dividers, pockets, and pouches.
• Comfortability : After filling our bags to the brim, we ensured they felt comfortable carrying for long and short periods. We carried them as the brand intended: on our backs or over our shoulders.
• Durability : We noted the material each bag is made from and how well it withstands being tossed around during travel. We also considered water resistance.

The best duffel bags

Best overall: calpak luka duffel.

Calpak Luka Duffel

With its spacious main compartment, exterior and interior pockets, exterior shoe compartment and trolley sleeve, this bag makes for the perfect travel and daily duffel. “I love that I can use this bag for trips as well as in my everyday life as a gym bag. I didn’t find that with the other duffels I tested, so I appreciated this,” says Zoe Malin , NBC Select associate updates editor. “The size of this bag and how lightweight it is makes it a perfect workout bag for me. I put my sneakers, a change of clothes, weights, a towel, toiletries and a water bottle inside it to go to yoga after work.”

The soft and puffy polyester bag is also durable, easy to clean and water-resistant. “I had to walk to the train in the rain with this bag and everything inside was totally dry,” says Malin. “I just wiped water off the bag in the bathroom of the train station with paper towels.”

Best large capacity: Patagonia Black Hole Duffel

Patagonia Black Hole Duffel

Patagonia’s Black Hole Duffel comes in four sizes — 40L, 55L, 70L and 100L — so you can choose the capacity that’s best for your travels. The duffel is made from 100% recycled fabrics, plus it has a durable and weather-resistant exterior.

On the inside, this spacious bag has interior pockets that are similar to a carry-on suitcase. It also closes and opens easily since the zippers glide easily, says Mili Godio , NBC Select updates editor. “The only thing I wish is that it had more pockets, especially for smaller items like my wallet and keys, but the ones it does have are super spacious.”

The best backpacks

Best overall: calpak laptop backpack.

Calpak Laptop Backpack

This Calpak backpack is great for frequent travelers looking for a large, durable bag to hold essentials of all sizes, as well as a laptop. The backpack has exterior and interior pockets, a water bottle holder and a trolley sleeve so you can slide it onto your luggage. “Calpak’s backpack has completely changed how I travel,” says Bianca Alvarez , an NBC Select associate reporter who’s a super commuter . She travels from Virginia to New York City every week for work. “I tossed my old backpacks after using this one because it makes my travel days easier,” she says.

Alvarez says storage and space are a guarantee with this bag due to its plethora of organizational features. She especially loves its interior pockets. They’re located near the top of the bag rather than the bottom, which prevents her from having to rummage through everything packed inside to find what she’s looking for.  Alvarez says the bag’s main compartment can easily fit clothes, shoes and cosmetics bags, and there’s a separate compartment for her laptop and notebooks.

Best for commuting: Dagne Dover Dakota Backpack

Dagne Dover Dakota Backpack

Dagne Dover’s Dakota Backpack is ideal for commuters, like NBC Select staff who brought it back and forth to the office. “I’ve been using this backpack for two months as my work bag and it’s been a major upgrade from my last situation,” says Rebecca Rodriguez , NBC Select editorial projects manager. The backpack has padded straps, making it comfortable to wear for long periods of time, and it has compartments and pockets to store whatever you’re traveling with.

Whether you’re commuting in the rain or accidentally spilled your morning coffee , no worries — this backpack will keep your items protected. “The backpack got dirty a couple of times while I used it, but the neoprene material was super easy to clean with soap and warm water,” says Rodriguez.

Best outdoors: Orvis Trekkage LT Adventure

Orvis Trekkage LT Adventure

While the Orvis Trekkage backpack is specifically designed for outdoor adventures like hiking and camping, it has features that allow you to use it in everyday life, including a laptop pocket and a hidden security pocket for valuables. The bag is made from heavy-duty recycled, water-repellent fabric, and its main pocket is lockable making it easier to protect your items while outdoors camping or just traveling. There are also expandable side pockets and a built-in hydration reservoir.

“This bag is big without looking like it belongs on the 'Amazing Race,'” says Rosalie Sparaco, NBC senior social media editor. “It has a ton of space, although it could potentially use more internal pockets since it was easy to lose stuff.” She also says the backpack is comfortable to carry thanks to its padded back panel and curved ergonomic shoulder straps. If you need extra support, you can use the bag’s adjustable sternum strap and adjustable, removable waist strap. The backpack also fits under the seat of a plane.

The best weekenders

Best overall: dagne dover landon carryall.

Dagne Dover Landon Carryall

The magic behind Dagne Dover’s Landon Carryall lies in its structure, says Malin: “It has shape, so it stays open while I’m packing and never flops over, yet it’s flexible and soft, so I can overstuff it without any issues.”  The bag is also expandable. “You can unsnap the sides of the bag to make it bigger, which is such a great option,” says Malin. “I expand it for longer trips, but leave it snapped for overnight trips when I don’t need a ton of space.”

The organizational features this bag offers vary by size. It’s available in extra small, small, medium, large and extra large options — the bigger the bag, the more extensive its organization features are. Because of this, we recommend the medium, large and extra large options for traveling (the extra small and small Carryalls function more as everyday handbags, based on our testers’ experiences). They’re designed with a laptop carrier, an exterior phone pocket, interior side pockets, a key leash and an attached zip-top pouch. The larger bags also come with a shoe bag and a detachable adjustable crossbody strap.

Best for a long weekend: July Carry All Weekender Plus

July Carry All Weekender Plus

If you need a weekender bag that fits enough clothes and toiletries to last you a few days, this one from July is exactly what you’re looking for. “I’m very impressed by how incredibly spacious this bag is,” says Ari Night, NBC Select editorial assistant. “Not only does it fit multiple outfits, but it also has segmented pockets that keep everything organized inside.” The bag’s clamshell opening allows it to lie flat making it  easier for packing, and there’s a padded pocket in the center to put delicate items like a laptop or tablet . This weekender also has a hidden internal pocket with a magnetic opening for valuables like jewelry, an exterior zip pocket and a luggage sleeve. It also  comes with a detachable adjustable shoulder strap.

Why trust NBC Select?

Products underwent an eight-week trial before being selected as our favorite in their respective categories. We utilized our editors as shopping and trying experts. Each editor was given the same criteria during the testing period to ensure each item was held to the same standards and procedures. We looked at spaciousness, durability, comfort, zippers and much more. You can read more about our process here .

What our badge means

When a product carries the NBC Select badge, you can trust that our team of editors as shopping experts and professionals vetted the item thoroughly. First and foremost, we are journalists, so we will always do our research and reporting.

Catch up on NBC Select’s in-depth coverage of personal finance , tech and tools , wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook , Instagram , Twitter and TikTok to stay up to date.

Select Staff on NBC News

10 Stylish Backpacks That'll Make Traveling a Million Times Easier

Posted: December 12, 2023 | Last updated: December 12, 2023

What makes a travel backpack "perfect" varies from person to person. Maybe you're looking for a well-ventilated backpack for a long hike , a secure style you can wear around a new city without worrying about pickpocketers, or a spacious carry-on backpack to fill up ahead of a flight. No matter what you're looking for, Amazon has options for every traveler and destination, including well-known brands such as Fjallraven, Herschel, and The North Face, as well as smaller ones that need to be on your radar.

To find the perfect travel backpack for you, we rounded up 10 of the best options available on Amazon that are bound to help you stay organized and comfortable on your next adventure. All cost under $100 and have covetable features, such as laptop sleeves, USB charging ports, and water bottle holders. Keep reading to check out our complete list of favorites to zero in on which is best for you and your future travels.

Best Canvas Travel Backpack

Fjallraven Kanken Backpack ($59, originally $80)

Swedish brand Fjallraven's backpacks are synonymous with adventure. This particular one, which has been around since 1978, and is praised for its lightweight fabric that can withstand dirt and wetness and its multiple carrying options, including top handles and adjustable shoulder straps. One of its most unique features is its PE foam cushion to prevent the contents of the backpack from poking against your back. (You can also pull it out when you need to sit and take a break.

Back Travel Backpack With a Laptop Sleeve

Herschel Retreat Backpack ($75, originally $100)

This backpack doesn't just look adventurous, but is purposely crafted for exploration. It has a spacious interior with a padded and fleece-lined laptop sleeve, a front storage pocket for small essentials you want quick access to, and padded shoulder straps. One shopper who rated it five stars wrote: "This backpack is awesome. I use it frequently when traveling, and it was an essential when hiking through Europe and Lebanon. It's very well-made, has excellent padding to keep my laptop safe, and I can fit a ton of stuff inside (basically everything for a day of hiking or as an overnight bag)."

Back Compartmentalized Travel Backpack

Matein Travel Laptop Backpack ($30, originally $40)

With over 75,000 five-star ratings and securing the top spot among all backpacks on Amazon, it's clear that this backpack is a favorite, particularly as a great weekender bag. No detail has gone unattended, from its external USB port and built-in charging cable to its laptop sleeve, and water bottle pockets. One shopper wrote that it "makes my life so much easier," adding that it has "plenty of space for everything without feeling bulky."

Best Sling Travel Backpack

Waterfly Crossbody Sling Backpack ($21, originally $35)

Whether you're running around an amusement park or going on a hike, this sling bag has you covered. You can wear it on your front or back and it has an earphone hole, a water bottle holder, a mesh pocket for an umbrella, and a separate strap pocket. It's small, but fits a lot. Case in point: one shopper wrote that they could "fit a first aid kit and entire spray bottle with fan in the main compartment" and a "phone and sunglasses," in the smaller pocket.

Best Carry-On Travel Backpack

MATEIN Pink Travel Backpack ($42, originally $46)

This streamlined travel backpack is a piece of luggage in its own right. It opens up like a suitcase for easy access to your belongings, and the interior resembles one, too, with a roomy main compartment, and compression straps. It also has an expandable compartment and hideaway shoulder straps so you can easily convert it to a duffel bag.

Best Bungee Travel Backpack

The North Face Women's Jester Commuter Laptop Backpack ($75)

The North Face's winter gear is pretty hard to beat, and so is this backpack. The bungee system on the front isn't just for looks, but also to hold items you want fast access to, such as a map. It's also certified by the American Chiropractic Association, features a padded 16-inch laptop sleeve, and can stand upright for easy loading and unloading.

Best Lightweight Travel Backpack

4Monster Hiking Daypack ($19)

It doesn't get much lighter than this travel backpack, made from waterproof and durable nylon. It's a hit for camping and hiking, and one of the coolest things about it is that it can fold up to the size of a wallet for easy storage, and comes with a bag to pack it into. It comes in neutral colors, vibrant hues, and eye-catching patterns.

Best Drawstring Travel Backpack

Under Armour Adult Undeniable Sackpack ($18, originally $25)

This drawstring bag takes things up a notch compared to ones you may have used in the past in terms of durability and features. The zippered pocket on the front is fleece-lined to protect your valuables, and it boasts adjustable cording straps that you can tie for a custom fit. As one shopper put it: "Finally, a string backpack that's durable!"

Best Extra Large Travel Backpack

SHRRADOO Extra Large 52L Travel Laptop Backpack ($34, originally $60)

According to passionate Amazon reviewers, this is seemingly the biggest travel backpack you can get your hands on, with 52 liters of space. That means, per shoppers, it can hold at least 50 pounds of stuff without giving the straps any trouble. "I have NEVER had a backpack this durable that was even remotely in the same price range," writes a happy shopper. In addition to the space, it also has a laptop compartment, a trolley sleeve, a password lock, and more.

Best Cotton Travel Backpack

Vera Bradley Women's Cotton Campus Backpack ($63, originally $125)

If you're searching for a classic-style backpack with a playful print, Vera Bradley has got you covered. This specific option is crafted from recycled cotton and includes a laptop sleeve and a mesh pocket for those carrying a tablet. It's equipped with a convenient trolley sleeve that easily slides over your suitcase handle and comes in so many fun patterns.

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HC CSKA Moscow classic KHL Sports backpack, blue/red

• Size: 16inx 12in x 5in
• Single main compartment
• Front Pocket with multiple compartments
• 100% Polyester
• Officially licensed HC CSKA & KHL

Product Description

HC CSKA Moscow classic KHL backpack is great for every day activities, sports or travel. Durably build, it offers single main compartment and a large front pocket with multiple compartments to separate smaller items. Both front pocket and main compartment have zipper closure. Large CSKA KHL logo is embroidered on the front of the bag along with KHL logo.

Product information

Technical details, additional information, looking for specific info, customer reviews.

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

No customer reviews

Huckberry x Peak Design X-Pac Travel Backpack 30L

Adventure is built into brands like Peak Design and this shines through in all of their excellent bags and accessories. When they joined forces with one of our favourite brands, Huckberry, we were all ears here at Coolector HQ. The product collab in question is the superb looking X-Pac Travel Backpack 30L and this top notch carry will be perfect for any wilderness adventures or urban explorations afoot.

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