air travel with hiking backpack

Hiking & Backpacking

Flying With Backpacking Gear: What to Pack Where for Airport Security

Are you planning an exciting hiking trip in a faraway land? Lucky you! Hiking is such a splendid way to explore, but flying with backpacking gear can be a bit tricky. The last thing you want is to have your beloved and mission-critical gear confiscated by airport security on the way to your dream trip. 

I’ve flown with backpacking gear enough times to know there are some critical must-follow rules, and also some gray area. When flying to or from the United States you’ll need to consider rules from the TSA, your airline, and security organizations in other countries on your itinerary. Do your research and pack carefully, but don’t worry. With a little preparation you’ll most likely have a smooth trip. 

This post will walk you through each potential trouble item, how to fly with it safely if possible, and what to do if it’s not allowed on the plane. Are your tent stakes considered a weapon? What about trekking poles? Do you know which common items of hiking gear can actually be packed in your carryon but not your checked luggage? Read on to find out!

Disclaimer: I am not the TSA, nor is this official TSA or airline guidance. I’m simply a frequent traveler and hiker sharing my experiences and research. This post is here for your convenience, and you should consult the rules of your airline(s) and the security organizations involved in your trip for the final word. 

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Understanding Regulations

TSA may be the first organization that springs to mind when you think about flying with camping and backpacking gear, but there are actually several sets of rules to consider: airport security (TSA in the U.S.), the airline(s) you’re flying on, and sometimes customs and local laws in your destination country. Though often in agreement, airport and airline security rules can differ slightly or may be interpreted with different levels of strictness. If you intend to venture into gray areas, look up each organization’s rules separately. 

Enforcement is up to the individual on duty at the time you pass through. Some transgressions, like a knife in your carry-on bag, are always strictly enforced. But gray areas like stoves, hiking poles, and not-so-pointy tent stakes might have different outcomes for different travelers at different times. In these cases you take some risk of having gear confiscated if you pack it in your carry-on, but you also might get away with it. 

If you make a mistake and your hiking gear is confiscated by security, don’t count on getting it back. If you arrive at the airport early enough you might have time to go back and check your luggage (have a plan for this), or possibly even mail an item home to yourself. Checked bags may be searched after they’re out of your possession, so you may not even have a chance to make your case for a particular item. Think carefully before taking a risk while flying with backpacking gear!  

Overview Table

Here’s quick summary of hiking and backpacking gear to be mindful of when packing for a flight that starts or ends in the United States (many other countries have similar rules). Keep reading below for more detailed advice and possible workarounds.

Hiking Gear on Airplanes: Item by Item

Here’s a breakdown of common hiking and backpacking gear that may be restricted in either carry-on or checked luggage. Some of these are obvious (knives, flammable liquids) but there might be a few you haven’t thought of!

Let’s start with an easy one. The TSA prohibits knives — including pocket knives, utility knives, and multitools with knife blades of any length — in carry-on luggage. Checked luggage is fine.

Be sure you know where you’ve tucked your camping knife, especially on your way home from a hiking vacation, as they have a tendency to hide in pockets and other stealthy places. If you accidentally leave a knife in your carry-on bag, even a teeny-tiny one, you can expect a thorough pat-down and will definitely lose your knife (don’t ask me how I know.) 

Depending on where you’re traveling to or from, other knife restrictions may apply. The TSA has the toughest policy prohibiting blades of any length, but Canada allows blades shorter than 6 cm in carryon luggage. 

It’s also worth knowing local laws in your destination regarding possession of weapons. For example, Canada has laws against certain types of knives including switchblades and concealed knives. According to CATSA (the Canadian version of the TSA) if one is found in your luggage it “could lead to charges and prosecution.”

Multitools are a bit of a gray area depending on their specifics. If there’s a knife blade, it definitely needs to go in checked luggage when flying to or from the US. Other types of sharp tools could potentially be a problem depending on who happens to scan your bag.

Small multitools with no blades or tools over the permitted length (7 inches) are technically allowed. The Leatherman PS , for example, has no blade and is TSA-compliant. I’ve carried the Leatherman PS through security on occasion and they have always inspected it closely and then let it pass. I only try this when traveling carry-on-only, otherwise I recommend packing any multitool in checked luggage just to be safe.

Tent Stakes

Tent stakes are prohibited in carry-on luggage by both the TSA (United States) and CATSA (Canada). Apparently they’re sharp and pointy enough to be considered a weapon, though this may depend on your specific model of tent stake and the discretion of the security official.

Though I don’t recommend it, people do successfully fly with tent stakes in carry-on luggage from time to time. I’ve flown with stakes like these in my carryon luggage (they’re less pointy than a ballpoint pen) and I would think these plastic pegs might have a chance, but I would not try with these pointy ones . To be safe, pack any tent stakes in a checked bag unless you absolutely must fly carry-on-only, and in that case have a plan to replace them in your destination if they are confiscated.

Despite some articles claiming otherwise, you can indeed fly with tent poles in carry-on luggage according to the TSA website. Of course they must fold down small enough to fit within the airline’s carryon limit, and TSA reserves the right (as always) to make a final decision based on the apparent danger of your tent poles.

Hiking Poles

If you want to bring hiking poles on a plane they must go in checked luggage. They are not allowed in carry-on luggage, presumably because of their sharp tips. Most telescoping models won’t even fit in a carryon-size bag, but if you have a z-fold design like the Black Diamond Distance Z you might be tempted to try it. 

I happen to know of a few people who managed to carry trekking poles in a carry-on bag by removing the pointy tips and packing them elsewhere in the bag. This is risky, as the poles could easily be confiscated at security. If you’re going to try this (not that I’m recommending it!) I strongly suggest you leave time to check your bag as a backup plan.

If you must travel carryon-only and don’t want to risk losing your poles, look into shipping some gear ahead or renting poles at your destination.

Hiking Poles: How to Choose and Use

Are Trekking Poles Worth It?

Pepper Spray and Bear spray

Pepper spray and bear spray are both definite no-no’s in carry-on luggage. Don’t try it!

According to the TSA, a small (4 oz) container of pepper spray is allowed in checked baggage “provided it is equipped with a safety mechanism to prevent accidental discharge” and contains no more than 2% tear gas. I’ve carried this type of pepper spray on planes many times, always in checked luggage of course, and it’s never been a problem.

Bear spray, on the other hand, is totally prohibited in checked and carry-on luggage. This makes sense since it’s basically pepper spray for bears, and a typical container of bear spray is around 9 oz, well over the 4 oz limit for pepper spray. The good news is that bear spray is probably available for purchase in most destinations where you’ll need it (grizzly country). Pick up a bottle from REI or another outfitter when you get to Banff, Missoula, etc.

If traveling internationally, it’s worth noting that some countries have laws against the possession of pepper and bear spray. Check before you go.

Flammable materials of any kind, including gas canisters, liquid fuel, and fuel tablets, are not allowed in either carry-on or checked luggage. This rule is definitely enforced, so don’t try it!

Arrange to buy stove fuel at your destination, and keep in mind that US-style Lindal valve gas canisters are not available in some countries. For some destinations (Kyrgyzstan and Nepal come to mind) you may need to visit a specialized gear outfitter in a major city, or consider a different type of stove .

If you want to fly with a backpacking stove, pay attention. This one can get tricky and I’ve been burned by it (pun intended) in the past.

A backpacking stove can technically be packed in either carry-on or checked luggage IF it is brand new and unused, or has been thoroughly cleaned of all fuel, fuel residue, and fumes. If using a liquid fuel stove the fuel bottle must be detached, empty, and clean. The best method for cleaning depends on the stove and fuel, but a thorough scrub with warm soapy water should usually do the trick. I’ve also seen cooking oil mentioned as a “neutralizing agent.”

Even if you clean your stove before taking it on the plane, there is some risk it could be confiscated. This unfortunately happened to me on a flight home from Canada. My JetBoil was taken from my bag after I checked it in, ostensibly due to fuel residue, though I can’t help wondering if someone is selling used stoves on the Canadian black market…

In some cases the airline may have their own policies regarding stoves. In my case, flying home from Banff, it was actually Air Canada (the airline) that took my stove, not the security department. Their rules are quite specific:

I’ve successfully flown with a backpacking stove many other times, even without cleaning it (canister stoves don’t really have much to clean), but I recommend playing it safe. Clean it thoroughly and pack a note alongside saying something like “This stove is being transported without fuel and has been thoroughly cleaned of any fuel residue.”

Lighters and Matches 

Flying with a lighter is counterintuitive. You are allowed one lighter per person in your carry-on luggage (presumably a nod to the tobacco industry) but are NOT allowed to pack a lighter containing fuel in your checked luggage (unless in a special DOT-approved case). The rules for electronic lighters are similar (carry-on but not checked) and require a safety latch, battery removal, or some other way of preventing accidental activation.

Though these rules are fairly lenient, lighters are cheap and available anywhere in the world, so this one isn’t worth stressing over.

If you carry matches in your hiking kit, note that strike-anywhere matches are prohibited in both carry-on and checked bags. Safety matches (not strike-anywhere) can, like lighters, be packed in your carry-on but not in checked bags. 

Fire starters are, according to the TSA Twitter account , not allowed in checked or carry-on bags. Presumably this applies to the backpacker trick of cotton balls soaked in Vaseline, but I’d be shocked if anyone has ever had these confiscated. 

Crampons and Microspikes

Crampons are fine in checked bags, as are Microspikes. To my surprise, TSA says “Crampons are generally permitted in carry-on bags. However, TSA officers have the discretion to prohibit an item if they feel it may pose a security threat.” Presumably this goes for Microspikes too.

Personally, if I were trying to carry on crampons I would leave plenty of time to go back and check my bag, and ideally I would simply check them to begin with. Non-spikey traction devices like Yaktrax are presumably no problem, though their use is limited to tamer conditions.

An ice ax is a definite no no in your carry-on bag, but can be packed in checked luggage.

Sunscreen, Bug Spray, Other Liquids:

Liquids like sunscreen and bug spray are subject to usual carry-on restrictions. For travel to and from the US liquids must be packed in containers of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less and placed in a clear, resealable plastic bag (I love these 3.4 oz containers for this purpose). Aerosols of all kinds are prohibited in checked and carry-on luggage, but these aren’t as common nowadays. 

Larger quantities of liquids, like you might need for a long trip, should be packed in checked luggage. I suggest packing them inside a ziplock bag in to protect the rest of your gear from leaks and spills. If you really want to fly carry-on only to your hiking destination, look into buying liquids once you arrive.

Related: What’s in My Lightweight Backpacking Toiletries Kit

Small batteries like standard AA or AAA are fine in both carry-on and checked luggage. Spare lithium ion batteries, like the kind you might use for extending battery life of a SPOT Gen 3 , can be packed in carry-on luggage but cannot be checked .

Your backpacking menu is almost certainly fine in either carry-on or checked luggage (except for liquids larger than 3.4 oz, of course). But if flying internationally, check the customs restrictions of your destination country to make sure a key part of your food supply isn’t confiscated on arrival (more on this below).

First Aid Kit

First aid kits come in a wide range and most are fine to take on a plane, even in carry-on luggage. If your kit includes any of these (mostly uncommon) items, take note:

• Liquids: should be less than 3.4 oz per container and should fit in the quart plastic bag with all other liquids. In practice I have never been asked to remove any of the tiny liquid pouches or tubes from my first aid kit, but technically it could happen.
• Scissors: blades over 4 inches (measured from fulcrum) are not allowed in carry-on luggage by TSA.
• Needles and syringes: Check TSA regulations. If they’re in your first aid kit for emergency use (not for medication you take regularly) they should be in checked luggage.
• Prescription meds or controlled substances: More of a customs issue than an airport security issue. Make sure you’re carrying the required documentation (usually a copy of your prescription) and keep the medication in its original labeled container.

Carrying your hiking backpack on a plane is simply a matter of size. Each airline has their own carry-on size limits, so check carefully to see if your backpack will fit. A frameless 40 liter pack , for example, will likely be fine while a large 65 liter pack (especially with rigid frame) will need to be checked.

If you do check a hiking backpack, it’s smart to shorten and buckle straps and try to tie any loose ends out of the way. Some travelers even wrap their backpack in a sturdy outdoor garbage bag to make sure straps can’t catch on anything.

If your pack is close to the carry-on size limit, try removing the stays (if that’s possible) and packing them diagonally across the center of the pack. Use the pack’s compression straps to cinch it down to carry-on size and pack it loosely so it can be smushed into the overhead bin more easily. 

Flying Carry-on Only with Hiking Gear

As a fan of minimalist travel and saving money on airfare, I appreciate the desire to fly with all your hiking gear in a carry-on bag. It can be done, but you’ll need to arrange for a few errands at your destination and accept some risk of losing gear or needing to check your bag. 

If flying carry-on only you’ll definitely need to buy some items when you arrive : stove fuel, knife, possibly bear spray or pepper spray, large amounts of sunscreen or other liquids over the 3.4 oz limit.

In popular trekking areas you may be able to rent or buy gear from outfitters at your destination. Trekking poles are the most obvious example, but stove and tent stakes are other possibilities. A friend of mine rented trekking poles to climb Kilimanjaro , for example, rather than carry them in his pack from the US.

If you’re going to try flying with higher risk items like tent stakes or hiking poles in your carry-on bag, arrive to the airport early enough that you can return to the check-in counter and check your pack if security doesn’t allow some of your items.

For trips closer to home, another option is to ship a box to your destination with all the troublesome gear (stove, tent stakes, trekking poles, knife, etc.). In the US you can use USPS General Delivery or find a local business (hotel, outdoor gear store, etc) to accept a package and hold it for you.

Country-Specific Customs Restrictions

Hooray, you’ve cleared security! Now you’re home-free, right?

Not quite… You may still run into issues bringing certain items into certain countries. New Zealand, for example, has some of the strictest biosecurity laws in the world. Their extensive customs rules are designed to protect their isolated ecosystems from foreign diseases that could devastate their agriculture industry. Travelers must declare an extensive list of food products, some of which could be found in dried backpacking meals and other hiking food. Hiking shoes and tents will be inspected and possibly washed on arrival (but not confiscated). 

Related: 3 Week New Zealand Itinerary for Outdoorsy Adventurers

Most countries aren’t as strict as New Zealand, but it’s worth checking customs regulations before an international hiking trip. Food is usually the biggest issue, particularly if you make your own freeze dried backpacking meals . The EU has restrictions on dairy and meat products, for example, which could impact your hiking menu.

Country-Specific Laws

One last thing to consider: the legal codes of some countries prohibit possession of a few items that might be on your hiking gear list. This mostly applies to potential weapons like knives, pepper spray, and bear spray.

Pepper spray, for example, is illegal to possess in many countries including the UK and Singapore. Knives with certain blade designs (switchblade, button activated) or knives disguised as other items (pen knives) are illegal to possess in some countries, including Canada. Know the rules of your destination and how strictly they are enforced before packing any of these items.

Medication is another potentially risky area, so take note of what’s in your first aid kit. General best practice is to carry medications, both prescription and OTC, in their original labeled packaging labeled and to carry copies of any prescriptions. You won’t have an issue bringing a ziplock of Ibuprofen into most countries, but do your research and take special care with prescription medications that are controlled substances in your destination.

In Conclusion

As you can see, flying with hiking and backpacking gear can be a bit tricky, but don’t let it stress you out. Check the regulations in advance, leave yourself time to make last-minute changes if necessary, and plan to pick up a few supplies after you arrive at your destination. You’ll be off the plane and onto the trail in no time, which is when the real fun starts. Happy hiking!

More Backpacking Resources

If you found this post helpful, you might also like these:

• How to Wash Backpacking Dishes, the Easy Way
• Lightweight Backpacking Tips for More Comfortable Miles
• Hiking Rwanda’s Congo Nile Trail

Or visit the hiking and backpacking section for lots more.

About the Author

Hi there, I’m Alissa, founder of Exploring Wild. I’ve had the pleasure of hiking the Arizona Trail, Colorado Trail, John Muir Trail, Tahoe Rim Trail, and countless shorter amazing trails throughout the US and abroad. I love solitude, big views, and a good lightweight gear setup. Learn more here .

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How to Get Your Gear Where You’re Going

Air travel with backpacking gear:.

Going on your first “well away from home” backpacking trip?  Read on for strategies to get your precious gear to the trailhead safe and sound.

What This Article is Not

Let’s start with what this article is not : It’s not about basic flight rules as imposed by airlines or government security agencies (TSA here in the U.S.).  The aggregate of these rules are complicated, can vary by airline and by country, and are beyond the scope of this article.   This is also not a “complete and last word” on the subject; if you were to poll a lot of experienced backpackers, you might find the responses to various issues would remind you of the story of the blind men encountering an elephant — different people have different ideas and have had different experiences.   So please do use this article as an idea generator, but don’t assume that it’s complete, that everyone agrees with my ideas, or that any flight-related rules that I might reference are current.

I also want to warn you that if you’re a sequential “read everything” reader, then this isn’t a short article.  Rather than cut out anything significant, I leave it to you to use the read-skim technique to zero in on the bits that most interest you.

Finally, note that I set out here to talk about long distance travel dynamics for backpackers in general, but the vast majority of such issues fell into the “air travel” category.  Going by car — your own or someone else’s — rarely causes gear safety issues.  Ditto train travel.

Long-Distance Bus Travel

Long distance bus travel does offer one issue worth discussing however: you generally have to store your backpack in the luggage compartment underneath the seating area of the bus, and have no access to it while travelling.  Sometimes you can place your pack there yourself, but other times the driver or another bus company worker will do it.  There’s nothing like seeing your heavily loaded “ultralight” (and hence, somewhat delicate) pack being jerk-lifted by one pack strap and then tossed into the luggage compartment.     Even where you are allowed to place it yourself, you might find that other passengers are none too gentle in trying to make room for their luggage or in the scramble to get their stuff off the bus on arrival.     For the most part, ideas for protecting your luggage in air travel will apply equally well here (and are covered later in this article).

One somewhat bus-specific issue however: I once had my backpack carefully covered with a taped-on contractor type (thick plastic) bag, only to have the bus driver inform me that it was against their policy to have luggage in plastic bags like that — I was forced to remove it.  I have no idea if or how unusual this might be in long distance bus travel (by preference, I don’t do it often!).

Just about everything else I can think of comes down to air travel issues.

Air Travel: What’s The Problem?

There are multiple air travel problems confronting a backpacker taking gear far from home for a backpacking adventure.

Perhaps most obvious is that some common backpacking items aren’t allowed in a carry-on bag, and so by default must be checked.  Examples include a knife, trekking poles, cathole digger, anything that might be deemed a weapon.  There can be a bit of a grey area aspect for some of these items, so you might hear people tell you things like “I fly with my trekking poles in carry-on all the time”, or “I’ve never had a problem with tent stakes in carry-on”, etc.    The problem is that different TSA agents at different airports and in different time periods aren’t going to be perfectly consistent in either interpretation of the rules nor in enforcement.   If you want to play a little fast and loose, that’s of course up to you, but it can still be helpful to be aware of the issues and alternatives available to you.

A related problem is making sure that gear that’s not in your immediate possession during the trip manages to arrive, safe and sound, and is in your possession by the time you’re ready to hike.

There are more issues to potentially deal with, but most of these vary somewhat based on the particular approach you take to solving the “ can’t have certain things in carry-on luggage ” problem.

So, What Are My Options?

I’ll briefly list options, and then talk about each one in more detail.

• Check your pack Pack goes as checked baggage while you bring a few things onboard as carry-on: keep with you things that are particularly valuable, things that you’re not allowed to check (but can carry on), and things that you just want to have with you on the airplane.
• Leave some stuff at home and make do Things you can’t take in carry-on just stay at home, then you buy, borrow, rent, or do without some items after you arrive.
• Push the rules a little i.e., bring things in carry-on that you might or might not get away with. Note that I am NOT recommending this, but knowing the long distance hiking community, at least a few folks are going to do it anyway, so I think it’s best to just address this upfront.
• Ship Gear ahead Send some, and perhaps just most of your gear ahead using a service such as UPS, FedEx, or the U.S. Postal Service (USPS).
• Check or ship ahead just a few things A sort of hybrid approach is to take most of your things as carry-on luggage on the plane, and then just have a fairly small package of “cannot carry-on” stuff either as checked baggage or shipped ahead.
• Rent a lot of gear Another sort of hybrid approach is to pack lighter and plan to rent a lot of your gear on arrival. REI stores are probably the most wide-spread option for this around the U.S., but if you’re flying into a city in an area known for outdoor activities, there are likely other options too.
• Don’t fly after all Finally, consider whether flying really is your best option. Obviously if you’re going overseas then the answer is yes, and ditto if you’re flying from the east to the west coast or vice versa.  But sometimes there are ground transportation options that are worth considering.

Let’s Expand a Bit on Each of These

Now let’s talk a little more in-depth about each of these approaches, discussing advantages, and, inevitably, sometimes disadvantages too.  There isn’t a single “right way”, and even if there were it likely wouldn’t be right for every trip and situation.  But by thinking through the issues you might find ways to improve the approach that you use for a particular trip.

1. Checking Your Pack

In this scenario you check your pack as checked baggage, bringing a few things onboard as carry-on luggage. So in your carry-on, you bring things that are particularly valuable, things that you’re not allowed to check (but can carry on), and things that you just want with you during the flight.  A simple plastic grocery bag typically works as my high-fashion carry-on bag, and doubles for other uses when I’m hiking.

How to Protect Your Pack as Checked Baggage:

There are three general approaches to protecting your checked gear:  Duffel bag or suitcase, a cardboard box, or a thick plastic bag.

• Put the pack (and contents) in a duffel bag or suitcase. This in turn lends itself to two variants: One choice is to use an old suitcase or duffel that you might pick up at a thrift store and then just give away at the other end.  Alternatively, if you’re able to store some stuff at your destination, you can bring a nicer suitcase or duffel — and perhaps store some “extra” stuff there too, like a change of clothes, perhaps toiletries that you might want when you come off the trail, etc. I personally favor a duffel bag approach over a rigid suitcase, though this depends mostly on how/where I’ll store it at my destination.  A common approach is to book a motel room for your first and last night and ask ahead if they’ll store a duffel bag with a few clothing items in it in between.  A lower volume duffel is easier for a hotel/motel/hostel to store. For many, and perhaps most backpackers, this will be the go-to approach.  It’s not always for me, as often I’m flying into one airport, hiking hundreds or thousands of miles, and then flying back from a different airport.  But if you have a round-trip ticket and a place you can store a few things at your destination, this is the easiest thing to do. Note that it’s possible to buy a pretty light weight duffel and just carry it with you on your trip.  Obviously not ideal to carry any extra weight on your back, and a lighter weight duffel is going to be less durable, but … it’s another option. When my wife and I fly somewhere to backpack together, typically we put one of our packs in a duffel as checked baggage containing some stuff from each of us, and we use the other pack as a shared carry-on.  Having just one checked bag between us means that’s one less piece of luggage that we have to take special care in packing, and only this one bag to worry about in terms of theft, damage, or loss.
• Put the pack in a cardboard box and use that as your checked baggage , discarding the box on arrival. An issue here is then finding another cardboard box when you’re ready to fly home. But it’s always possible to use one technique on the flight out and another when flying home.
• Use a thick plastic “contractor bag”. These are like those large black yard waste bags people use to collect leaves and such, except they’re tougher than the thin bags, made of thicker plastic.  The particular bags that I happen to have are called “Contractor Clean-Up Bags”, they’re 42 gallon size and the thickness of the plastic is 3 mil. You can buy these at hardware stores, and sometimes other department stores. If you use this approach take care to cover the pack in such a way that if TSA or other government security services decide to search the contents that they aren’t forced to take the bag off to do so.  A common approach for a top-opening backpack is to use duct tape to wrap tape around the bag in a couple of places (the contractor bag would be loose and floppy otherwise) and at the top, leaving just some part of the top opening and the grab handle of the pack available. This is one of my favorite approaches, and particularly for returning home from a trip.  I’ll sometimes ship my pack ahead for a backpacking trip, but on the way home it might not be convenient to find a UPS or FedEx or whatever kind of shipment outlet.  If I use a contractor bag as a pack liner, then all I need carry is a little extra duct tape to be set up for the return trip home.   I’ve used this method several times without issue.

2. Leave behind the things that you can’t carry-on

Let’s take a moment to talk about the things that you definitely should not pack in carry-on luggage, and also a few “grey area” items.  I’m going to lump them all together here, as I don’t try with any of these things; if you’re inclined to push things a little, I leave it up to you which is in your “grey area”.

• Liquids or gels that are in excess of 3.4 oz or 100 milliliters (don’t forget your food bag contents)
• Knife of any sort
• Multi-tool / pocket “knife” that doesn’t have an actual knife blade – perhaps an example of a “light grey” area
• Trekking poles
• Stove fuel of any sort (not allowed in checked baggage either)
• Bear spray (ditto, not allowed in checked baggage either)
• Empty stove fuel bottle, especially if you’ve ever stored fuel in it
• Tent stakes
• Fishing pole or hooks
• Spork (metal)
• Cathole digger
• Mini-scissors
• A “saw” that’s just a sort of wire with loops at each end
• And obviously an ice axe if you have one along!

I do not represent the above list as being complete, but it should at least be “pretty complete” in the context of a things specific to a backpacking trip.

Note that in the United States you can’t put matches or a lighter in checked baggage, but you can take one book of matches and one non-refillable Bic-type lighter in your carry-on baggage.  Noting as I mentioned at the start, all of these sorts of rules are subject to change.  I would point out that it’s generally not hard to find matches or a lighter in a gas station convenience store at your destination, but sometimes it’s not convenient to get to any sort of store before you get to the trailhead.

How Do I Get By Without … ?

The second time that I hiked the Camino de Santiago in Spain I left my trekking poles at home and didn’t miss them.  I left my knife home and bought a cheap knife in Europe and just gave it away at the end of the trip.   Voila, an easier flight each way with only my pack as carry-on.  The Camino represents, however, a somewhat different type of ‘backpacking’ than we typically do in the U.S.

So let’s talk in detail about how you make do if you’ve left all of the above list behind.  As an aside, note that this approach isn’t practical for an old-school “traditional” (read “heavy pack”) backpacker — you will likely have too large a volume of stuff to stay within carry-on baggage volume/size limits, and perhaps not within carry-on weight limits either.  Particularly if you’re flying with several days of hiking food too.

But if you keep your pack weight reasonably light — and small — this is a credible approach, but how do you function without all of the things I just listed above?

I won’t say “beg, borrow, steal”, but it comes down to something like those choices, plus “buy” and/or “do without”.

I think that many if not most backpackers put too much emphasis on having a knife for safety and survival, and typically it’s more some male backpackers feel that they somehow have to have a beefy knife to be a real man.  Or something.  Experienced backpackers that I respect typically have a very minimal knife, so please don’t fall prey to watching too many reality TV shows and think of yourself as surviving in the scary wilderness with just a loincloth and your trusty blade.    Depending on the trip you might well find yourself never using it.  In certain first aid situations it’s nice to have something you can cut with, and on occasion for use in hasty repair of gear or clothing.   If a companion will be carrying a knife, however, that’s likely enough.  Or you can perhaps buy a cheap one and mail it home at the end of the trip or simply give it away.  An almost weightless shaving-type razor blade will serve for most of what you need if you can obtain something like that at your destination and then discard it at the end.

Trekking poles: only you know if and how well you can get by without these, but do pay attention to the particular trip dynamics.  Perhaps for one trip you just really need them, whereas for another trip they’re pretty optional.   Keep in mind that some tent designs assume the use of trekking poles for support — it would be pretty embarrassing to hit the trail without them in that case!         Consider also whether you can rent or somehow borrow a pair of poles.

Stove fuel is an issue regardless of how you transport your gear, and the common solution is to buy it locally on arrival if possible. With a little research, you should also be able to ship fuel ahead, so long as you follow the rules and it travels by ground transportation only.

I’d like you to consider another option here which is to just eat all of your meals cold.  For trips of under a couple weeks (and sometimes longer), I find that I’m perfectly content eating cold meals in any conditions, so long as I can get to a decent grocery store to have good selection of what I’ll be eating.  And in a pinch I can even resupply this way at a gas station minimart type of store.  Experience at this helps, however, so you might want to try it out on a short local trip before committing to it on a longer remote adventure.          I’m not saying that this is for you (!), just that it’s an option to consider.  I should add that while I’m happy eating cold dinners on trail, my wife is very much not okay in doing so.

Tent stakes are a bit of a challenge to do without, and it’s one place that you might “push” a little — and bring something along in carry-on.  If so, I would think in terms of finding the most inoffensive stakes you can find, whatever looks least like a weapon!  And be prepared for them to be confiscated anyway.  Consider whether you can buy plastic stakes for this trip. If you have modest low volume stakes that are wrapped up inside your tent, hopefully you’ll do fine.  Worst comes to worst on arrival you can try to find a substitute on arrival at a sporting goods store, or even a hardware store.  Or whittle yourself replacements with the knife I just told you that you don’t need! Seriously, with not much time and effort it’s often not that hard to make a stick into a sort-of tent stake.  You can also use cord lashed around large rocks to stake down your tent fly, and/or tie off to a nearby bush or tree.   This takes some fiddling, but is often do-able. And here’s where the “borrow” part of “beg, borrow, steal” comes in (and by the way, I wasn’t really serious about the “steal” part …).   Maybe a hiking companion is checking baggage or taking ground transportation and can bring an extra set of stakes for you if you ask nicely.

A plastic (lexan) spork is probably something that you can get away with just fine, so I would definitely take one of those, and I’m pretty sure that I have done so as carry-on.

For a cathole digger, consider getting one that’s made of rigid plastic; I speculate that’s going to seem less like a weapon to a TSA agent.

3. Push the rules a little

I flew to a hiking trip once with an old friend who swore that he always brings his poles on as carry-on with never a problem, but after I got through security I watched as he was turned away.  He ultimately checked just his poles, and there was some hassle at the destination end about that too.  Then on the way home, the same thing happened.   In some cases, “pushing the rules” results in just a little inconvenience, but recognize that you could be risking missing your flight, or I suppose that it’s even possible that worse consequences could arise if it was felt that you were attempting to conceal something that TSA agents deem could be used as a weapon.  My personal feeling is that it’s in no way worth the potential hassle or the worry as there are other fine alternatives that follow all of the rules.

I don’t want to talk a whole lot more about this, other than to say that if you do get caught up short by TSA, everything I’ve heard and experienced suggests that the only sensible approach is to be polite, patient, and not argumentative.  You might choose to print out relevant current regulations that you think might cover something that you’ve brought as a carry-on item, but even then — polite, patient, and not pushy.

4. Ship some (most?) of your gear ahead using FedEx, UPS, or USPS

Buckle up, as there’s more to talk about on this topic than any other.

Let me start by saying that this has become my favorite approach for domestic trips, at least for the outbound flight; for the flight back home I typically go with “ check the pack, protected by a contractor bag ” just because I don’t have ready access to a UPS/FedEx/etc outlet at that point. Overseas shipping can be a lot more costly; I’ve only used this “ship it ahead” approach for trips in the U.S.

So if this is such a great thing, why doesn’t everyone do it? Wait for it — to really undercut my story, I’m going to start with dis advantages:

Disadvantages of shipping gear ahead

• You have to plan ahead. And this alone takes it off the menu for some hikers!  e., to be sure that you get your gear there when you are, you have to prep and ship it off at least a few days in advance.
• In fact, you have ship it inside of a window of time. Meaning that not only do you need to send it early enough, in some cases — depending on whoever is receiving it for you — you might also need to be concerned that you don’t send it too early.
• You need a place to ship it to. A place that you can trust to get it — which might include them having to go pick it up somewhere.  To hold and store it secure from theft, weather, rodents or other animals, whatever.  And for someone to be available to give it to you when you arrive.  There’s nothing like showing up on a Friday afternoon only to find that your box isn’t available for pickup until Monday morning.  Or being told “Oh, we only go into town to pick up packages once a week” (and that happened earlier the same day).
• Total cost could be higher. Yes, you have to pay these days in most cases to check a bag on a flight anyway, but don’t assume the costs will be equivalent.  They might be, but factor in also whether you’ll opt to insure this box of various possibly valuable backpacking goodies.  And whether there’s a charge to hold your box at the other end. Finally, you also have to have a box in the first place, and typically for me that means buying a box.  Perhaps twice in fact, once for the flight out, another for the flight home. I’ve had a mix of experiences in comparing the total costs to that of checking a bag. A couple of times the costs weren’t that far apart, and once it was something like twice the cost to ship it. In the latter case I still reckoned that there was value in shipping it ahead (see below), but just don’t assume the cost factor is always a wash.  Depends on how you ship it, how far you ship it, which service you use, whether you can reuse a box you already had on hand, and whether and for how much you insure it for.
• Usually a minor issue, but on arrival you will have to discard the cardboard somehow. And open the box without use of the knife that you likely have packed inside.  Typically though, whoever received and is storing the box for you can help with both issues.
• One final kind of weird potential downside: in today’s paranoid security conscious travel culture, might flying with very little luggage seem suspicious? Worse, I’m typically doing so on a one-way ticket when going on long distance backpacking trips.   Maybe it’s because I’m relatively old, or perhaps I’ve just been lucky, but I have not been pulled aside for any special airport screening attention as a result.  Even when long-bearded and scruffy on the return flights. Hopefully you won’t be either.

That’s a lot of downsides — so now what’s so great about shipping ahead?

Advantages of shipping gear ahead

• It’s very comfortable and easy to show up at the airport with a relatively minimal amount of stuff that you want with you on the flight, no schlepping the backpack around all the time, taking it into the bathroom with you, etc. This can be particularly nice if you end up with tight connections and have to race from one gate to another — and in such cases with checked baggage, you have to worry about whether your checked bag makes the flight too. It also means that you don’t have to play the “baggage carousel lottery” — waiting and hoping at the baggage pickup area to see if you get all of your stuff back.
• And in the same vein, when you ship ahead you can get a confirmation of receipt when your box arrives. It’s a nice feeling to get on the plane knowing for sure that your gear is already there waiting for you.
• Use of public transport at your destination is easier if you don’t have a big backpack to deal with. Of course this is do-able anyway, but shipping ahead makes it just … easier.
• As already mentioned, this approach needn’t cost much or perhaps even anything more given that you typically pay to check baggage these days.
• No worries about what you can or cannot ship, for the most part. Even shipping fuel is possible, so long as it goes by ground transportation — but do check with your shipper to make sure you have the latest on this. I’ve never had reason to ship fuel and so have no experience to share. Ditto bear spray if you want that for a particular trip, but again, do check the rules first.  As with stove fuel, you certainly cannot fly with bear spray (!).   Note, however, that if you’re flying to somewhere that bear spray is a good idea, it’s likely readily available on arrival.  Still, the stuff is expensive, and you might want to keep your unused and expensively purchased bear spray when you fly back home. My feeling is that if you have to ship some stuff because you can’t fly with it, then you might just as well ship enough to make it worth while — and per above, make the flight easier. TSA can and will open bags to look for certain things, perhaps they have a sniffing device that detects fuel residue on your stove or empty fuel bottle — and they confiscate it, after shifting through your stuff and repacking it differently (and perhaps making it less protected from damage or loss as a result).  Perhaps they just see something they can’t readily identify with the x-ray machine and sort through your stuff for that reason.  Or maybe you just draw an unlucky number and they open it up as a random check. Note: do not try to fly back home with even a completely empty fuel canister from a canister stove.  Just don’t.
• You pack the box the way that you feel keeps your gear the most safe and secure, and no one is going to open it up and repack it en route. I would add that some people feel that theft of individual items can be an issue when checking baggage; I have no such experience, nor have I heard any first-person stories, and generally I don’t know how to measure this as a possible risk.  But my guess is that if it is any sort of factor, it’s less of a risk when shipping ahead.
• I listed the cost of insurance as a disadvantage, but it can be an advantage too insofar as you’re able to easily ensure expensive backpacking gear. And with no supporting data whatsoever, my suspicious mind suggests that your shipper might take a little better care of insured packages.  I personally just always put some insurance on such a box, typically in my case not for the full value of what I’m shipping.  I have no idea if this is the right strategy or not — it’s just what I do.
• I think that the risk of damage to gear is less, assuming you take a little care in selecting the right size of box and in packing your gear. For what it’s worth, I usually leave my sleeping bag for last and put it in uncompressed to take up any remaining space; nothing rattles around much that way.

5. Hybrid Approach: Take most things as carry-on, check/ship a small package

In this scenario you can be confident that at least most of your gear will get there when you do, safe and sound.

So to really spell this out: you pull aside just those things that you’re not allowed to carry on with you and either use a small package (typically a box) as checked baggage or you ship these things ahead. What I suggest is cutting up one or more boxes that you have at home and using packing tape to build your own custom box that will fit your poles; typically everything else will fit into that too.  Being comfortable in building a custom cardboard box can also, by the way, be a good thing at the other end of your trip, and in rare circumstances perhaps during the trip as well.

If you check this stuff as checked baggage, be careful not to make the box too small; this is particularly an issue for someone that doesn’t use trekking poles.  Airport baggage areas have what is often thought of as a separate “oversized baggage” area, but often this is more generally an “unusually sized baggage area”.  When my friend had to check just his trekking poles, we waited around in the Paris airport for quite some time before we were directed to this special baggage claim area where his poles sat waiting.

Of course the great thing about this approach is that you get to keep most of your stuff with you.  There’s nothing like having physical possession of your gear to ensure that it gets to your destination. But as mentioned earlier, you need to have a low enough overall volume of gear to make this credible.  Too much stuff and a helpful flight steward will take your bag from you anyway to store for the duration of the flight.

If you’re bringing your first few days of backpacking food with you, consider whether any of your food items might be considered the sort of liquid or gel for which TSA has limitations and rules for.   Packets or a jar of peanut butter, for example.  If not sure, best to put it in the checked luggage box (or ship ahead).

6. Pack lighter and rent a lot of stuff at your destination

In the U.S., REI stores are probably the only really widespread rental source, or at least that I’m aware of, but at least in more “outdoor” oriented cities there are likely alternatives.  I’m talking about places like Seattle, Denver, Bozeman, etc.

I think this is a particularly good option for trips where you’re doing more than just one thing. I.e., perhaps you’re backpacking for a week or two, then after that you plan to be a more conventional tourist in the area — visit famous sites, take a cruise, whatever.  In that situation it’s very nice to not be burdened with bulky and heavy backpacking gear that you don’t need anymore.  Of course “ship it home” is an option there, but renting can be a good choice too.

Renting can also be an opportunity to try different brands of backpacking gear, and/or different types of gear.  Caveat there, however: the selection of rental gear is typically not very high, you just have to use what they have set aside for rental. So you’re not going to be able to go into, for example, an REI store and say “I want to rent that particular stove and that particular model of sleeping bag”.  But still.

7. Consider whether flying really is your best option

If this is a domestic adventure and you’re not going too-o far, do consider ground transportation options.  I started my Continental Divide thru-hike and (five years later) my Pacific Northwest Trail hike both from the same trailhead in Glacier National Park.  In both cases I went by train, and in both cases I was glad that I did.  Certainly slower than flying, but very pleasant, and no trouble at all about whatever was in my pack.

It’s easy to make assumptions and jump to conclusions without considering what could turn out to be a better approach. For me, if it’s more than a few hundred miles I tend to assume that air travel is best, and I think that it usually is.  But this depends on a lot of factors.  For example, a retired person might happily take a more time consuming train trip and enjoy the trip itself, whereas if your vacation time is precious you want to minimize how much of it you spend on transportation.   Cost can be a tricky factor; I think that due to extra cost of en route lodgings the faster (air travel) solution can often win there too, but not always. I have a friend who loves to drive, and thinks nothing of driving across the country if the opportunity arises.  To sleep on a multi-day trip, he happily pulls into a freeway rest area and snoozes for a few hours, so lodging cost isn’t a factor for him.  Sometimes a one-way car rental is prohibitively expensive, but sometimes it’s not bad, I presume based on car availability, the size of the town or city you’re renting in, and perhaps on the needs of the rental car company to reposition vehicles (?).  Anyway, it doesn’t hurt to check.

Enterprise car rental has (in the past at least) been willing to do trailhead pickups and drop-offs.  A friend and I took advantage of this when thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail in 2010 to get off trail to go to Trail Days in Damascus VA.  This was a fun mini-vacation from the trail, and having the pickup and drop-off service from and to the trailhead made it a whole lot nicer and easier.

In Europe, there’s a kind of car-ride-sharing service called BlaBlaCar that people will take to go relatively long distances; I’m not aware of anything quite like it in the U.S.

The point is to think outside of the box a little, and recognize when your own situation and dynamics might suggest a good alternative to flying.  Me, I love an excuse to book a sleeper car on Amtrak and catch up on my reading en route, “spoiled” a little bit along the way before I start my next backpacking adventure.  We’re all different, no one size fits all here either.   Air travel is cramped and stressful, so do at least consider other options.

I want to finish by reinforcing something that I hope is getting to be a little repetitive: there’s no single right answer.  Please consider the ideas here to just be input to what you synthesize into the right approach — perhaps somewhat unique for each trip — for you .

And — if you have personal experiences to share or corrections or amplifications of any sort, by all means please respond in the comments section.  The more ideas here the better!

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Long distance backpacking is my "thing". I've thru-hiked the big three trails in the U.S. and my sweet spot now is 4 - 6 week trips, "chunk" hiking my way through other trails.

Are there any regulations that you know of with Amtrak? will be going cleveland to atlanta on the 6th! great post!

There are of course regulations on Amtrak. What I’ve always done on backpacking trips, and what I’ve heard others do is to not check baggage, just take it on with you and arrange it to fit as you can, taking along whatever reasonable thing you would need for a backpacking trip. If there are sharp poky bits, like trekking pole tips, I think it’s good to have those in the pack if possible, and (more commonly) where not to put something over them to cover and protect from the sharp tips.

Given that no one checks nor seems concern — and I’m not suggesting you break any rules here! — but in that context I’ll say that I’ve never had anyone look at my pack at all, nor have I heard of it being done.

You can find the official size/weight restrictions for carry-on here: https://www.amtrak.com/carry-on-baggage

More to the point of this article, Amtrak’s list of items prohibited onboard is here: https://www.amtrak.com/prohibited-items

Thank you, this was helpful.

Great and very thorough article, thank you!

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Flying with Hiking Backpack: Tips & Regulations

When it comes to traveling with a hiking backpack, air travel can pose some unique challenges. From size restrictions to prohibited items, there are several factors to consider before taking off on your next adventure. However, with proper planning and preparation, it’s possible to bring your essential gear while still complying with airline regulations.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or new to the sport, understanding the guidelines for flying with a backpack is essential for avoiding setbacks at security checkpoints and ensuring that your trip goes smoothly. In this article, we’ll provide tips and information on how best to pack your hiking backpack for air travel and navigate airline rules so that you can arrive at your destination ready for an outdoor excursion.

Carry-On vs Checked

As a backpacker, I often struggle with the decision to carry on or check in my hiking backpack when flying. But before making that decision, it’s essential to consider the TSA regulations and airline size restrictions. After all, nobody wants their precious gear refused at checkpoint because it’s too big or heavy for a carry-on bag.

Checking-in comes with its own set of concerns though – fragile equipment is susceptible to damage during handling procedures by airlines employees. Plus, some gear may be restricted if recognized as “dangerous weapons.” For peace of mind, remove any items that could raise an alarm from your checked baggage.

Ultimately, every backpacker wants their gear to arrive in one piece and without hassle. So personally, I prefer carrying on my backpack because of faster arrival times and avoiding the risk of lost luggage – but this choice also depends on airline weight limitations or even overhead compartment availability. Hence doing your research beforehand will help streamline the journey ahead of you!

What size backpacks are allowed in the airplane?

As an avid traveler who loves backpacking, I know firsthand that size is a critical factor to consider when bringing your hiking backpack on an airplane. Carry-on hiking backpacks require adherence to airline size and weight constraints for hassle-free travel. Typically, airlines allow carry-on bags measuring no more than 22″ x 14″ x 9,” but it’s crucial to verify this information with your airline before departure.

In addition, some airlines specify particular rules concerning the weight of your rucksack. In the case of United Airlines, they permit up to 40lbs for carry-on bags. It’s imperative to pay attention not only to the weight of your pack but also its contents as carriers strictly enforce oversized or overweight luggage regulations which necessitate additional fees.

For checked bags, there’s more leniency regarding their size compared to carry-on luggage; however, individual airlines may have varying policies that you must comply with scrupulously while keeping any potential supplementary costs in mind.

Before heading out for air travel with your hiking backpack filled with adventure gear important preparation measures need implementing! Conduct a thorough review ahead of time on travel-specific restrictions and flight-friendly fitting practices so that you’re well-equipped for takeoff!

What items are not allowed in carry-on hiking backpacks?

When I’m preparing for a hiking trip that involves air travel, I make sure to research what TSA regulations mean for my backpack’s contents. After all, not everything is airline-friendly! For example, sharp objects like knives and scissors are pretty obvious no-nos. You’ll also want to avoid bringing flammable liquids such as gasoline or lighter fluid onboard with you.

It’s not just weapons that are prohibited – did you know tools longer than 7 inches are also off the table? When it comes to animal repellants like bear sprays or insecticides, keep in mind that the entire container must have less than 3oz of liquid inside.

To avoid the stress and frustration of having these items taken from you at security checkpoints (or worse!), be sure to check with your airline carrier about any other weird restrictions you might encounter. For instance, some airlines handle trekking poles differently than others.

And one more thing: if you’re planning on bringing electric gear along – especially lithium batteries with a high power requirement – look into getting FAA permission papers before you fly. These documents will include a detailed use-description playbook provided by FAA website so there won’t be any surprises while traveling.

In summary: – Sharp objects such as knives and scissors are prohibited – Flammable liquids including gas or lighters – Firearms and explosives – Tools longer than 7 inches must also be packed away

Keep these rules in mind, folks!

How to pack a hiking backpack for carry-on?

When getting ready to pack my hiking backpack for a carry-on flight, I like to keep in mind the guidelines and regulations set by airlines and TSA. It’s important to know the allowed dimensions of your backpack so you don’t run into any issues with size restrictions. To avoid any surprises at airport security or during boarding, make sure your backpack meets the airline’s requirements for cabin-friendly bags.

In addition to size restrictions, there are specific rules about what can be carried onboard an airplane in a hiking backpack according to TSA regulations. Certain liquids and sharp objects such as knives and poles may not be permitted on board.

To ensure a hassle-free travel experience with all necessary hiking gear, it’s important to follow some basic steps when packing: – First and foremost, know the weight and size restrictions set by your airline regarding carry-on baggage. – Make a list of essential items that you will need during the flight. – Pack efficiently by organizing similar items together and using compression sacks if possible. Remember that when traveling with only carry-on luggage, packing light is crucial!

Before heading out on your next hiking adventure, take some time to review these guidelines so you can enjoy a comfortable flight without having to worry about whether or not your gear will be accepted on board.

How to pack a hiking backpack for checked luggage?

When I’m traveling with my trusty hiking backpack, sometimes it doesn’t meet the size requirements for carry-on luggage or may contain items that aren’t allowed on board. In these situations, I have to check it in as baggage. But wait! Before handing over my precious cargo to airport handlers, I take extra care to pack it securely and protect it from damage during transit. Here are some tips that have helped me pack my hiking backpack for checked luggage:

• Protect those straps and hip belt! To prevent any snags or tears during handling, I fold them up tightly and wrap them snugly around the bag.
• Use a rain cover not just to keep your things dry but also to shield against scratches and tears.
• Pack fragile items carefully with added protection like separate cases or sleeves (especially important for cameras or laptops!).
• Put heavier objects at the bottom of your backpack (things like boots, stoves, or fuel canisters) to balance out weight distribution and avoid smashing lighter items.
• Lastly: tie up any loose ends (cord locks work well!) like zippers and drawstrings that might get caught in conveyor belts.

By following these guidelines when packing my hiking backpack as checked luggage, I’ve found success in getting it safely delivered to my destination while still complying with airline regulations on oversized bags – always a win-win!

Can hiking poles be brought on a plane?

When planning your next adventure, hiking poles are a must-have for tackling those tough terrains. But, can you bring them on a plane? The answer is yes! However, it’s crucial to check with your airline beforehand as regulations may vary. Opting for collapsible hiking poles may also be a better choice as they take up less space in your backpack.

It’s important to note that according to TSA regulations, hiking poles are classified as potentially dangerous items due to their tips. To avoid any issues at airport security, be sure to securely cover the tips and pack them properly.

Before jetting off with your hiking poles, make sure they comply with weight and size restrictions set by your airline. Don’t forget about specialized carrying cases designed for hauling outdoor gear during air travel.

Lastly, don’t overlook other essential guidelines such as checking for soil or dirt on your gear. Pests can quickly spread across borders or into states and countries with protections regarding invasive species – so keep that gear squeaky clean!

With just a few extra steps taken before traveling with your beloved hiking poles, you’ll be well prepared for an epic adventure in no time!

Shipping as an Alternative

Personally, I believe that traveling with a hiking backpack can be quite a struggle. Not only do you have to deal with the airline’s luggage restrictions, but it can also be challenging to haul everything around airports whilst waiting in long security lines. That’s why shipping your equipment could be an excellent option for those who want convenience and peace of mind.

There are several companies (such as Luggage Forward or Ship Skis) that specialize in shipping outdoor gear, including hiking backpacks. They’ll come right to your doorstep to pick up your gear and deliver it directly to your final destination – no more carrying heavy bags around during travel! Plus, most companies offer insurances against loss or damage ensuring priceless items stay protected.

But before choosing a shipping option, thoroughly research different providers and compare prices and services carefully so that you know you’re getting the best deal possible for your needs. Additionally, don’t forget about checking whether packages will arrive at their expected delivery time so that they coincide with when you’ll need them on your trip properly.

Although shipping could cost more than other options like carrying gear onboard or checking-in during flights, it is perfect for those who wish to avoid airline regulations on carried items especially when traveling internationally. Moreover, one doesn’t have to worry about other travelers handling bags during flight changes or losing out on vital pieces which could derail plans upon arrival at destinations otherwise – making the journey itself as stress-free as possible.

As a seasoned hiker and frequent flyer, I know how important it is to be mindful of the airline rules when packing my trusted hiking backpack. It’s crucial to ensure that your backpack adheres to the size requirements for carry-on bags and doesn’t contain any restricted items such as knives or inflammable products. For optimal organization, I suggest using packing cubes to make the best use of the available space in your backpack.

To avoid any potential loss during transit, I highly recommend labeling your backpack with identification tags. And if you’re unsure about certain pieces of gear or tools being allowed on board, be sure to contact your airline ahead of time or consider sending them via a separate shipment.

By following these simple tips, you’ll have a smooth and hassle-free journey with your hiking backpack while staying within airport security measures. So pack up and get ready for an adventure with peace of mind!

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How To Take a Hiking Backpack on a Plane: A Step-by-Step Guide  

  June 24, 2023

By   Keith Terrell

When it comes to taking a hiking backpack on a plane, even the most avid traveler can be at a loss of where to start. Outlining what items you need, how you can fit everything in your bag while still staying under the size and weight limits set by airlines, and how to keep your belongings safe while in transit – it sure can be a daunting task!

Most airlines will allow you to take your hiking backpack on board as a carry-on item as long at it fits within their size limits. To make your experience easier, it is recommended to pack your items in an organized manner and check the airlines’ restrictions before flying.

Fear not, intrepid traveler. With this step-by-step guide, you will soon be packing your hiking backpack with ease and confidence, ready to hit the trails in no time. From selecting the right size bag, to packing the essentials, to securing your load, this guide will equip you with the tools to get your journey off to the best start. So let’s get packing!

Table of Contents

How to Choose a Plane-Travel Backpack

Permitted dimensions and weight guidelines, rules regarding strap and size, check with your airline beforehand, what should you carry in your backpack, handbag or backpack, what are the airline restrictions for taking a hiking backpack on a plane, how do i travel with a hiking backpack on a plane, are there any tips for traveling with a hiking backpack on a plane, how should i pack my hiking backpack for air travel.

When it comes to choosing a plane-travel backpack, there are generally two main factors to consider: the size of the bag and the materials used. It is important to choose a backpack that meets both airline regulations and your personal needs.

Size is an important factor when selecting a plane-travel backpack; if it’s too big, you will not be able to bring it on board as a carry-on piece of luggage and may instead need to check it for separate fee. Therefore, when purchasing your backpack, make sure it falls within one of the most common dimensions allowed by airlines: 45 linear inches (22 x 14 x 9 in) or less. Additionally, it is highly recommended that you double check with your airline regarding their exact regulations before purchase.

The material of your plane-travel backpack is another key factor to consider. It is recommended that you opt for one made from water repellent material, such as nylon or polyester, for added protection from rain and spills in transit. This material not only withstands harsher climates but also offers improved durability compared to other materials like canvas or denim. Furthermore, many backpacks now come with additional features such as special compartments where you can store important items like passports or wallets safely inside the bag without worry of them getting lost in transit.

Whichever type of backpack you decide on, selecting one with the right size and material ensures your journey goes smoothly and efficiently. With this information in mind, we can now move onto discussing our next topic: permitted dimensions and weight guidelines when packing a hiking backpack for air travel.

When selecting a plane-travel backpack, make sure the size of the bag falls within the 45 linear inches (22 x 14 x 9 in) or less allowed by airlines. Additionally, it is recommended to find one made from water repellent material like nylon or polyester for added protection and durability. Make sure to double check with your airline regarding regulations before purchasing and opt for a backpack with special compartments to store important items. With the right size and material, your journey can go smoothly.

When traveling by plane, it is imperative to understand the specific size and weight limits that are applicable for your backpack according to the rules of carry-on luggage. Not abiding by these guidelines may result in the refusal of entry on a flight or extra fees being incurred.

The standard capacity for most backpacks is around 45 liters. The size requirements usually are no bigger than 55 cm (21.5 inches) long x 35 cm (13.5 inches) wide x 25 cm (9.75 inches) deep, although some airlines may have slightly different regulations that can easily be checked before booking a flight online.

Weight guidelines are typically limited to 8 kg (17.6 lbs) or less for carry-on luggage items including backpacks, although this again varies from airline to airline and can even depend on the type of aircraft being flown on certain occasions. Many times, baggage policies would include that if any item of luggage is over the set limit either in size or weight, it must be checked as baggage in the cargo hold instead.

Thus, understanding these official regulations beforehand is essential for ensuring an obstacle-free travel experience. With these parameters relating to your backpack in mind - it’s time now to start measuring your bag and make sure it fits accordingly within all relevant limits before packing anything else inside.

How to Measure Your Bag

When it comes to packing a hiking backpack for air travel, it’s important to measure your bag in order to ensure that it meets the dimensions and weight restrictions set by the airlines. If you fail to do this properly, you may end up having to pay an additional fee in order to get on the plane with the bag.

The best way to measure your bag is to use a tape measure or soft tape measure. Start by carefully placing your backpack flat on a surface, then begin measuring from the bottom up on each side of the bag. After you’ve measured both sides, add those measurements together and that’s the width measurement of your bag. From there, measure the length of your bag from top to bottom as well as the height from front to back. The combined total of these measurements will give you the size of your bag.

Most airlines allow for bags of up to 45 linear inches (length + width + height). People who are traveling with oversized bags may have difficulty fitting them in the overhead bins, so they may need to check their bags instead, which can mean extra fees. It's important to remember that even if a bag fits within the size limit, it still needs to meet any weight guidelines set by the airline as well.

Measuring your bag carefully before you start packing will help you make sure that your equipment meets all applicable regulations and won’t lead to any unpleasant surprises at check-in. Now that we have discussed how to measure your bag and understand weight guidelines, let us move on to discuss rules regarding straps and size restrictions.

• The average carry-on bags allowed by most airlines is 40 lbs.
• For checked baggage, the TSA has established a maximum limit of 50 lbs per bag for domestic flights.
• However, many international airlines may reduce the maximum allowable checked bag weight to 44 lbs.

The next step in preparing your hiking backpack for air travel is understanding the rules regarding straps and size. Different airlines are likely to have different regulations, so make sure you read those before making any plans. One rule that is generally accepted by most airlines is that all backpacks with straps should be no bigger than 11” x 18” x 13”. This is also typically the size limit for most carry-on luggage.

It's important to take into account the length of straps when measuring the size of your backpack. Many airlines will not allow bags that exceed a certain strap length past security checkpoints otherwise they could easily slide off an airplane seat or cause a hazard if you had to evacuate quickly. So make sure you're mindful of how long your straps are and ensure that they meet airline requirements.

Whether or not these basic rules apply to your specific situation will ultimately depend on the airline, so it's important to check beforehand. You should also consult applicable airport regulations in lieu of airline ones as airports can sometimes have stricter requirements than airlines themselves. Doing so will help ensure a smooth journey and prevent any stress or inconvenience at the airport! And with that knowledge, we can now transition into discussing some important considerations when choosing which airline to fly with.

Making sure your bag meets any airline regulations is key when packing a backpack for air travel. Beforehand, you should check with the airline to get an understanding of what size and type of baggage will be acceptable and determine whether it needs to be "checked" or if it can fit in the overhead compartments. Double-checking this information, as well as getting familiar with their rules and regulations ahead of time, can save you from any potential problems during the actual trip.

It's also important to weigh your bag before checking in for your flight; overloading a carry-on might lead to the airline refusing it, meaning you will have to check it in - potentially leading to extra fees. On the other hand, underpacking might incur additional charges too, so use a small scale to make sure your bag is within the company's weight limit before heading off. This way you won't be caught off-guard and can enjoy your journey without worrying that all of your belongings are safe aboard.

One way or another, consulting with airline customers service comes highly recommended when boarding an aircraft with a backpack. Once checked off this list, you're ready to start exploring how best to pack your bag for travel!

How to Pack Your Bag for Travel

When it comes to packing your bag for air travel, special attention must be given. The size and weight of your backpack will depend on the airline’s regulations. According to the FAA, passengers are allowed one item and one personal item such as a laptop bag, purse, or backpack. Make sure that your backpack fits in the overhead bin or beneath the seat in front of you. Depending on your chosen airline and the size of your plane, there may be restrictions on total carry-on size and weight. Some small airlines limit backpacks entirely, so you may need to take another type of bag with you to use as a carry-on.

Further, if you’re traveling internationally some countries have strict limits on liquids that can be carried onboard. So it’s important to check any country-specific regulations before you head out so that you don’t run into troubles at the airport. Furthermore, it may be beneficial to use a padlock for added security during transit. If access inside your bag is needed while it’s stowed, having the combination ready can save time during security checks without having to fiddle with keys.

Now that you've checked ahead with your airline and know what backpack size and weight is allowed—and who has a lock ready to secure their load—you're ready for your next step: deciding what to pack in your hiking backpack for air travel!

When wanting to take your hiking backpack with you when you fly, it is important to consider what you should carry inside. The key is to not overload your bag. While many travelers want to bring as much with them as possible, it is better to keep the items that are essential for your trip. It can be helpful to assess which items are actually necessary and avoid bringing non-essentials unless they can serve multiple purposes.

When deciding what to put in your back pack for air travel, there are a few things every hiker should have on hand such as a flashlight, medical supplies, clothing that is appropriate for the climate or location of the hike, a first-aid kit, emergency contact information, insect repellent and food. Depending on the type of trip and length of stay, other items were needed such as utensils for meals or a toolkit for repairs.

Aside from equipment related items, essentials such as wallets or documents must also be taken into consideration and must be secured. Although using a locking mechanism may add extra bulk if needed for security we suggest bringing it along with you. Of course, always make sure that these documents comply with travel regulations – some passport facts may change from country to country. Knowing ahead of time what these requirements are is an absolute must before embarking on one’s journey.

Whether hiking for pleasure or professional reasons, this guide helps travelers know what they need and how to best fit those items into their backpacks. Now that travelers understand what should go in their backpacks when traveling by air it's time to move on and consider whether a handbag or backpack is better suited to carry all those items.

When deciding whether to bring a handbag or backpack on your next hike, there are many factors to consider. Handbags are generally more convenient for everyday items, as they provide easy access to smaller items like keys and wallets. Handbags also come in a variety of styles that allow you to express yourself while still being able to carry your important items with you.

On the other hand, a hiking backpack is usually the preferred option for those taking longer trips or hikes over rugged terrain. Backpacks offer more storage space for larger items and heavier materials such as camping equipment or food. They also provide better weight distribution to ensure balanced carrying of the load during long hikes. Furthermore, backpacks generally feature multiple compartments and pockets that allow for quick organization and efficient packing of items.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on the duration and difficulty of your hike as well as personal needs and preferences. Short hikes or day hikes may lend themselves better to handbags, while long-distance hikers should opt for a backpack every time. When choosing which type of bag is best suited for your journey, it’s important to look at both the pros and cons to make an informed decision.

Frequently Asked Questions

Generally speaking, most airlines will allow you to bring a hiking backpack on board as long as it is within their size and weight limits. This is usually around 115 cm in length x 56 cm width x 23 cm depth, weighing no more than 10 kg. Therefore, before packing your hiking backpack for air travel, be sure to double-check with your airline’s individual baggage policies and restrictions.

Furthermore, it’s important to keep all heavier items at the bottom of your backpack and lighter items on top so that the backpack weighs under the 10 kg allowance. Additionally, hikers who are carrying any sharp items or tools should make sure they are securely fastened in an outside pocket or pouch so that they do not pose a safety concern for other passengers or security personnel.

When traveling with a hiking backpack on a plane, it is important to plan ahead and pack strategically. First, make sure the size of your bag meets the airline’s requirements and can fit in the overhead bin. Then, pack the most essential items you need like toiletries, clothes, electronics and other items on top so you can easily grab them upon arrival. Additionally, it may be useful to invest in a compression bag or cube to maximize the space within your bag and keep items organized .

Furthermore, a lightweight daypack makes a great carry-on option for bringing small essentials like snacks and water that would otherwise take up space within your larger pack. Lastly, remember to wear heavy clothing and bulky items that wouldn’t fit in your bag during your flight. Following these steps should help you travel with a hiking backpack on a plane with ease..

Yes, there are several tips for traveling with a hiking backpack on a plane. Firstly, it is important to make sure that your pack meets the restrictions of the airline you intend to fly with regard to size and weight; many airlines have specific regulations for carry-on baggage that may limit the size of your bag.

Secondly, use compartments and packing cubes to maximize space and organization. This helps to keep items neatly in place and will help you avoid having to unpack everything during security checks. Thirdly, wear any heavy items such as boots or a waterproof jacket, which will also allow you to bring more items without weighing down your pack. 

Finally, repurpose items like a towel or scarf as makeshift shoulder straps or handles so that you can easily move your bag from place-to-place while at the airport. Following these simple tips can make traveling with a hiking backpack much easier and more enjoyable!

To pack your hiking backpack for air travel you should start by laying out all the items that you will need to bring with you. Then, use a few key strategies to maximize the space in your bag. First, wear as many of your heavier items as possible on your body when boarding the plane, such as a jacket or shoes.

Secondly, begin to roll up any large and lightweight items like clothes or jackets so they can be compressed into smaller packages. Then move onto packing the “core” of your bag which typically contains the more heavy-duty pieces such as tents, water purifiers, sleeping bags , cook stoves and food. Place them near the bottom of your pack for weight distribution purposes. 

Lastly, when packing items into compartments near the edges of the backpack make sure to evenly distribute any weight so you are not carrying an unbalanced load. Following these steps should ensure that you are properly packing your hiking backpack for air travel.

Keith Terrell

About the author

Keith is a one bag traveler and the owner of Backpacks Global. His go to backpack is the Osprey FarPoint 40.

The Ins and Outs of Flying with Backpacking Gear (from Someone Who’s Done It!)

Backpackers struggle with the idea of flying to reach those epic destinations. There are so many logistical concerns when trying to plan these kinds of trips! All that gear can easily exceed allowed weight and size restrictions. There are also concerns about the gear being damaged in transit. But don’t worry, you can make it work! I’m here to show you how to prepare for flying with backpacking gear with minimal worries.

So you’ve got your plans sorted, you’ve prepared everything you need to pack, and are excited about some epic adventures, yet you’re still not sure what can be packed where and what should be left at home. Fear not, traveler! In this blog post, we are going to cover all of the ins and outs of flying with backpacking gear.

From airline baggage policies, ways to reduce the weight of your pack, what items to bring with you, and even strategies for packing that will save space – we have got you covered!

What is the Best Way to Protect Your Gear?

Pack your gear into a larger bag. You’ll want to protect all of the straps, clips, and buckles when you check it! Use one of these Osprey covers. > Check them out here <

How Will You Get Where You’re Going (Your Gear, Too!)

When it comes to getting your gear where you’re going, you’ll first need to actually decide your mode of travel. For some, this is by car. Others might opt for a bus or train. For adventures that are states or even countries away, the best option may be to fly to your destination.

But how do you fly with all of that expensive, sharp, and fragile backpacking and camping gear? We can’t wait to share ideas and methods that have worked for us!

First, before you start packing things in a few different bags, make sure that all of your gear fits into your backpack. If this is not your first backpacking trip, then you’ll know what gear you typically pack. If this is your first backpacking experience, do a dry run! Practice packing your pack strategically. This will help you later out on the trail, too!

It’s important to keep certain items with you at all times during travel. Headlamps, water filters, GPS devices, personal location devices, cameras, and really anything pricey or irreplaceable should all be kept in your carry-on!

What Can Be Placed in Your Carry-On

When packing for a trip like this, it is important to know what items can be taken in a carry-on.

While we are not TSA agents or airline employees, we do have experience in this type of travel. You should always err on the side of caution and check specific country and airline regulations prior to your trip.

This is meant to be a general guide and to give you ideas for the best way to fly with backpacking and camping gear.

Tents (without stakes or poles), backpacking camp stoves (without fuel canisters), and cooking/eating utensils are allowed as long as they fit and cannot be considered a weapon. Electronic lighters and arc lighters are also allowed if they run on batteries but must be in a protective case or have their batteries removed.

A single book of safety matches is allowed in a carry-on, but strike-anywhere matches are prohibited.

Everyday use batteries such as AAs, AAAs, Cs, and Ds can be packed in any bag. Lithium-ion batteries less than 100 watt-hours can and should also be packed in carry-on luggage.

In addition to these items, headlamps, water filters (that are empty!), GPS devices, personal location devices, cameras, medications, and anything pricey should all be kept in carry-on luggage. These items are expensive and more difficult to replace.

You don’t want to have to spend a fortune replacing gear or lose all the photos you took on your epic trip. Just pack that stuff in your carry-on!

Checking Your Pack

When it comes to packing for this type of trip, you might want to consider checking your pack and the larger gear such as your tent, sleep system, and cook set. There are certainly some considerations when doing this, though.

Airlines are not responsible for any damage to baggage, and this includes all of the zippers, straps, and plastic buckles on your pack.

All of those freely swinging straps can easily get caught or stuck and be damaged. For these reasons, we do not recommend checking your pack without covering it in some way. Here are a few options:

Have your Pack Wrapped

Wrapping your hiking backpack is a great way to protect it from damage during transport. Most airlines and airports provide this service, which involves wrapping the backpack or bag in plastic.

Before wrapping, it is important to pack gear evenly and cover trekking poles and other sharp ends with cardboard covers. The hip belt should be secured around the pack and tightened for extra protection. Once everything is secure, the pack can be bundled in plastic wrap.

Having your pack wrapped can give you peace of mind when traveling with your backpack. It helps to ensure all of your gear stays safe and secure while being transported, so you don’t have to worry about any of your items getting damaged during transit.

Wrapping also helps keep dirt and dust off of your backpack, so it will look as good as you left it when you arrive at your destination. With a little bit of preparation, having your pack wrapped can make traveling with a hiking backpack much easier and more enjoyable.

One thing to consider when using this method is if TSA will have to search your bag. If your plastic-wrapped bag is searched, the plastic wrap is not replaced by TSA.

Hiking Backpack Airport Travel Covers

Hiking backpack airport covers are another option for any traveler who wants to protect their pack when traveling. Features to look out for include durability, adjustability, and packability when you’re out on the trail.

Deuter and Osprey both make specific covers designed for packs and airline travel. You could also consider something like a cover made for strollers or car seats. Just make sure to limit loose fabric and secure any loose ends!

I probably wouldn’t carry one of those stroller bags loaded with all my gear like a backpack, as all that gear can be heavier than a stroller. This is just a cost-effective cover option to consider.

You may want to combine one of these travel covers with plastic wrapping, but that is certainly going above and beyond to secure your gear.

Check out these airport travel covers: Osprey Airporter Backpack Travel Cover Deuter Flight Cover 90 Stroller Bag

Place your Pack and Gear in a Large Rolling Suitcase or Duffle

One of the best ways to transport your backpacking gear when flying to a destination is by placing it in a large rolling suitcase or duffle bag. This is our preferred method! There are several advantages over backpacks, plastic wraps, and covers, such as easier carrying and less risk of injury from carrying excessive weight.

Another great benefit of using a rolling suitcase or duffle bag is that they make your baggage easier to find, both on the plane and off. It will be much easier for you to pick out your belongings among everyone else’s at the airport baggage claim when you’re looking for such a familiar bag.

You can also place other items, like clothing, toiletries, etc, that you may need before or after your backpacking adventure, in a large suitcase. This gives you a place to store extras while you’re out in the backcountry.

If you have bulky equipment like camping tents or sleeping bags with you, this method works especially well since the extra size allows you to include even more items without fear of them being damaged or lost during transit.

Rolling suitcases are also usually very durable and carry heavier items than traditional backpacks which makes them an ideal choice for travelers who need a reliable storage option for their backpacking gear. Plus, those wheels will come in handy, especially on the way home!

Leave Behind What You Can’t Carry On

When it comes to backpacking, it is important to be aware of the items you can and cannot take on a trip. Many items that are considered essential for a backpacking trip may not be allowed in carry-on or checked luggage, such as knives, multi-tools, trekking poles, stove fuel, bear spray, empty fuel bottles, tent stakes, fishing poles/hooks, metal sporks, cathole diggers, and ice axes.

Additionally, liquids or gels in excess of 3.4 oz or 100 milliliters should not be packed in carry-on luggage. It is also important to note that some items may be considered “grey area” items and should be left behind to avoid potential issues with security.

In the US, matches and lighters are not allowed in checked baggage. One book of matches and one non-refillable Bic-type lighter is allowed in carry-on baggage. To be on the safe side, though, matches or a lighter can easily be purchased at your destination.

Knives, trekking poles, tent stakes, and cathole diggers are examples of items that can successfully be transported in a checked bag.

When flying with backpacking gear, it is important to plan ahead and leave behind anything that cannot be carried on the plane. This will help ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience.

How to Get By Without “Essentials”

Backpacking without certain items can be a challenge, but it is possible to get by without trekking poles, a knife, and other items. Borrowing or buying can be options for certain items and certain locations.

For example, a minimal knife or a weightless razor blade can be used for most needs while backpacking. If you feel that trekking poles are necessary for support and stability, consider renting or borrowing them rather than packing them if you run out of room.

Additionally, if you need fuel for your camping stove while backpacking in remote areas, look into buying fuel locally on arrival. Stick stoves can be used as an alternative in some areas, but check local regulations prior to relying on a stick stove. Cold soak cooking methods or eating cold meals is also an option to consider; however, experience helps in order to make it a successful choice.

Overall, there are many ways to get by without certain items while backpacking. It may take some creativity and research to find the best solution for each situation. With some planning and preparation, you can still have an enjoyable backpacking experience.

Ship Gear Ahead of Time

Shipping gear ahead of a domestic trip can be a great way to save time and hassle. It eliminates the need to lug around heavy bags and equipment, and it allows you to focus your energy on enjoying your vacation.

Sending packages through FedEx, UPS, or USPS may be a less cost-effective option when compared to checking luggage, but one that can ease your travel through airports. You can send packages directly to a B&B or hotel ahead of time using DHL, FedEx, or UPS. This is especially useful if you’re traveling with bulky or heavy items that would otherwise take up too much space in your luggage.

When shipping gear ahead of an international trip, it’s important to give yourself enough time for the package to arrive before you travel.

Many countries have postal services that will hold packages at the post office for pick up with a picture ID. This can be a convenient way to receive your package without having to worry about delays in delivery or finding a UPS/FedEx/etc. outlet at the destination. However, overseas shipping can be even more costly than domestic shipping, so be sure to factor in the cost when planning your trip.

Shipping gear ahead of time can also be a valuable way to resupply with essentials and your favorite products on a multileg trip or longer distance journey.

Advantages of Shipping Gear Ahead of Time

Shipping gear ahead is a great way to make backpacking trips easier and more efficient. It eliminates the need to lug a backpack around and worry about checked baggage making flights, while also providing confirmation of receipt when the box arrives.

This makes public transport at the destination much simpler, as well as allowing for items that cannot be flown with to be shipped ahead. Shipping gear ahead also offers the advantage of not having to worry about repacking or theft of individual items, and insurance can be added for extra protection.

A secure place is needed to ship your gear to, as well as to provide storage for your items until your trip. If storing at a post office or similar location, make sure that the facility will be open when you need to pick up your gear!

While this method can be much more expensive, it is an option worth considering, depending on your scenario.

Disadvantages of Shipping Gear Ahead of Time

Shipping gear ahead of a hiking trip can be a great way to ensure that all the necessary items are available when needed. However, there are some potential disadvantages to consider before deciding if this is the right option for you.

Firstly, shipping gear ahead requires planning and may not be suitable for all hikers due to the additional costs involved. Depending on the service used and whether insurance is purchased, costs can be significantly higher than checking a bag on a flight.

Additionally, a box must be acquired to ship the gear which may require buying two boxes if shipping both ways.

Furthermore, having to discard the cardboard box on arrival can be inconvenient and wasteful.

Another disadvantage of shipping gear ahead is that it may lead to being pulled aside for special airport screening due to flying with little luggage. This could potentially cause delays in reaching your destination or even missing your flight altogether.

Additionally, you’ll need to open the box, but your knife and multi-tool are likely packed inside! Opening the package can be quite a challenge.

Despite these drawbacks, shipping gear ahead can be a great way to make travel to and from a backpacking trip easier and more efficient. It eliminates the need to lug heavy and awkward luggage around and worry about checked baggage making flights or getting damaged beyond repair, and you can confirm when the box arrives for added peace of mind.

Ultimately, it is up to you to decide if shipping gear ahead of time is the right option for your trip. Consider all the advantages and disadvantages before making your final decision.

Hybrid Method: Carry on Some, Check Big Essentials, & Ship a Small Package

The hybrid approach of taking most items as carry-on and a checked bag, while shipping a small package for the items not allowed on board, is a great way to ensure that all your specific gear makes it to its destination.

By packing most of your items, you can avoid the hassle of shipping them. However, it is important to be aware of TSA regulations when packing food and other questionable items.

Items can often be purchased once you reach your intended destination, but if you have specific gear needs, shipping the rest can alleviate any concerns you may have. Especially if you’re going to a very remote destination, you can ensure that you have everything you’ll need.

Pack Lighter: Rent Gear at your Destination

Packing lighter and renting gear at your destination can be a great way to save space and money on trips with multiple activities.

Renting also allows you to try different brands and types of backpacking gear, but the selection is typically limited, so you may not be able to find the exact brand or item you want.

Consider alternatives to camping such as public-use cabins and yurts, or permanent cabin wall tents. Amenities can vary by location, but you may be able to avoid bringing a tent or other gear. Always bring your own bedding and food regardless of the type of accommodation!

You’ll want to be sure to do extensive research if choosing this method. If there is an REI near your destination, you can reserve gear online ahead of time to pick up when you arrive. You could also check in with local outfitters in your destination who may offer gear rental services.

Renting gear at your destination can help lighten your load, but it is important to be aware of the limitations and availability of gear.

Take an Organized Group Trip (Gear Included!)

Organized trips and tours can be a great way to explore new places without having to worry about the details.

Many of these trips include the gear you need, so you don’t have to worry about packing it all yourself.

Backcountry multiday trips usually include all the camping gear and supplies you need. It’s important to do some research before your trip and make sure you have everything you need. Be sure to look at the company’s list of included gear, and you can add in a few other personal gear choices if you wish. Just be conscious of your pack weight! Multiple small items can add up quickly.

In addition, bring extra items such as electrical adapters/converters, earplugs, quick-dry towels, disposable hygiene wipes, flip flops/shower shoes, and a change of clothes.

Consider renting or purchasing items like bug and bear spray, hand sanitizer, and trail-appropriate food at your destination; plan ahead for sunscreen if you’re picky about brands.

Some organized trips include things like food and a communal first aid kit. You may be expected to share in carrying some of the food or supplies. Just be aware of what is included in your trip both when booking and preparing for the trip.

Popular destinations, like the Smoky Mountains, Glacier, the Grand Canyon, and many others offer organized group backpacking excursions. Check to see if your destination offers organized backpacking trips!

Consider Alternative Modes of Travel

Alternative modes of travel can be a great way to get around with your backpacking gear. Do you have a little extra time? You could consider reaching your destination in a different way.

Sometimes flights can be expensive and it might make more sense to look for alternative modes of travel. For example, if you’re traveling to a country within the same region, express train services can offer a cheaper and quicker option. Amtrak provides service to many national parks in the US.

You may even find that ferry boats or buses are better suited depending on your destination.

Regardless of which mode of transportation you decide to take, be sure to research your options thoroughly. Consider all the various price points, efficiency levels, available amenities, luggage restrictions, and so on. That way when you finally book your ticket, you’ll feel confident that it was the best option for your budget and journey expectations.

Another factor worth considering when making your decision is how much time it will actually save compared to flying with backpacking gear.

Sometimes, scenic rail journeys through variations in terrain can just add to the adventure, offering additional experiences and something that most plane rides simply cannot provide!

What Backpacking Gear is Allowed in Checked Luggage?

When it comes to backpacking gear, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has a list of items that are allowed on flights. There is also a searchable list of TSA restrictions , which you can use to double-check specific items.

Most of this gear must be packed in checked luggage, but there are exceptions for certain items that can be carried on. Backpacks are allowed as checked luggage, so long as they don’t exceed the maximum linear dimensions (L + W + H) of your airline. Some airlines may require backpacks to be labeled as “fragile” luggage.

It is important to check with your airline before packing your backpacking gear in order to make sure you have all the necessary information about what is and isn’t allowed. It is also important to remember that some airlines may have different regulations than others when it comes to what types of camping gear can be brought on board or checked in.

By following these guidelines and checking with your airline beforehand, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free flight.

Tents are a great way to enjoy the outdoors, but they can also be a hassle when it comes to air travel. Most airlines allow the tent body to be placed in carry-on luggage. The tent poles and stakes, however, must be placed in checked luggage.

This is important for safety reasons, as the stakes must be sheathed or securely wrapped to prevent injury to baggage handlers and inspectors. It’s also important to check with your airline before you travel to make sure that your tent will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat. Additionally, the size and weight of the tent may be taken into consideration by the airline.

We’d recommend just packing your entire tent system in your checked bag. This way, everything stays together and you don’t have to bother lugging this around through the airport in a carry-on.

A tent isn’t very useful without its poles and stakes, anyway!

Camp stoves come in quite handy for a hot meal after a long day of hiking or on a cool morning to prepare a hot cup of coffee. When bringing a stove on an airplane, it is important to know the regulations and restrictions.

Camp stoves are allowed in checked baggage. They must be completely empty and clean before being brought on board. It is generally better to keep the stove in checked baggage to avoid delays at security.

Filled fuel canisters, however, are not permitted in any type of luggage!

Fuel for Stoves

Filled fuel canisters are not permitted in any type of luggage on an airplane.

Fuel for stoves is an important consideration when traveling, especially if you plan to cook your own meals. Compressed gas canisters are a popular option and can be found at many destinations, but make sure they are compatible with your stove.

Alcohol is also a good option for traveling as it is easy to find. Multi-fuel stoves can use gasoline, but empty fuel canisters must be labeled and all parts disconnected in order to bring them in luggage.

If finding somewhere to purchase fuel canisters seems too difficult at your destination, consider possible alternatives. Using a stick stove may be an option on wooded trips where you can easily find dry kindling material to gather.

Planning cold meals or cold soaking can be other preparation options to avoid dealing with stove fuel canisters.

Hiking Poles

Hiking or trekking poles are essential pieces of equipment for many hikers and backpackers, as they provide balance and support on uneven terrain while helping to distribute the extra pack weight.

But what do you do when flying with hiking poles in your backpack as checked luggage? Fortunately, it’s still possible to fly with them without having to sacrifice your precious gear.

First off, make sure that all sharp edges are properly covered or taped up so they won’t accidentally injure anyone or damage any other luggage while being transported in the plane’s cargo hold. The same goes for anything else metal or pointy in your bag that could potentially cause problems.

Also, if you’re worried about them getting lost or broken in transit, consider wrapping the poles in a piece of clothing, such as a coat, that can act as both padding and camouflage.

Cathole Trowels

A cathole trowel is an essential tool for backpacking and practicing Leave No Trace principles. However, when it comes to flying with backpacking gear, most airlines don’t allow any sharp objects that could be used as a weapon in your carry-on. That’s why a cathole trowel should be kept in your checked luggage, and it should be padded to limit damage to other gear.

The best way to ensure that your cathole trowel makes the flight safely is by wrapping it securely in a towel or piece of clothing within your bag. This will protect both the trowel and the rest of your items from any accidental damage during transport.

When traveling with outdoor gear, it is important to consider the type of items you are bringing and how they should be packed. When planning a winter adventure, crampons with serious spikes must be packed in checked baggage and stored in a box or case to avoid any potential damage.

Hand warmers, on the other hand, are allowed in both carry-on and checked baggage.

It is always best to double-check what items can go into your carry-on versus your checked baggage before heading out on your trip!

It’s also important to keep an eye out for any new rules from particular airlines before you travel if you plan on bringing specific items along with you!

Gear That Should Go in your Carry-On

When it comes to packing for a trip, there are certain items that should always be kept in carry-on luggage. These include headlamps, GPS devices, personal location devices, cameras, and high-value items.

Keeping these items in carry-on ensures they will not be lost, stolen, or damaged during travel and can also be difficult to replace at a destination.

A single book of safety matches is allowed in a carry-on but strike-anywhere matches are prohibited.

Backpacking Gear to Rent or Purchase at your Destination

Faqs: flying with backpacking gear.

These are some common questions we have gotten. Do you have a question you don’t see the answer to here? Send us a message, and we’ll try to help you out!

Will Backpacking Water Filters Freeze in Checked Luggage?

Backpacking water filters are essential in the backcountry to ensure safe drinking water. However, when it comes to checking them in luggage, there used to be a risk of them freezing due to the cold temperatures in airplane cargo holds.

Fortunately, modern airplanes have temperature-controlled cargo holds, so this should not be an issue. It is still recommended to keep the water filter in carry-on luggage as it may be difficult to find a replacement at the destination if needed.

How Can I Fly with a Sleeping Bag?

Flying with a sleeping bag can be tricky, as most airlines have restrictions on the size and weight of items that can be brought in carry-on luggage. If your sleeping bag is too large or heavy to fit in your carry-on, it should be packed in a compression sack and checked in your luggage.

You’ll probably want to pack it in your checked bag, anyway, just so you don’t have to carry it all through the airport with you. Compression stuff sacks can be extremely helpful when packing this type of equipment!

What is the Biggest Backpack you can Carry On a Plane?

Carry-on size is determined by each individual airline. It is not a standard measure across the board!

You’ll need to check particular dimensions with your airline after booking travel. 

You don’t want to reach the gate and have to check your pack because it was deemed too large for an overhead bin.

Flying with backpacking gear to your next epic destination may seem daunting at first, but modern airline policies allow for it as long as you plan ahead and stick to the rules.

Knowing what to expect, how to pack your bag properly, and what size and weight restrictions are in place can help make your travels go a lot more smoothly. Protect your gear by packing appropriately and using another cover or bag too.

Put in a little extra effort now so you can enjoy stress-free air travel later!

Samantha is the owner and author of PAonPause, a blog that helps travelers find the best outdoor travel experiences and highlights unique locations around the Great Lakes. When she isn't writing and creating content for the website, she's hiking and exploring with her husband and 2 rescue pups. She also enjoys a good craft beer, a summer ride in her Jeep with the top down, and discovering a new waterfall.

Happily Ever Hiker

Can you take a hiking backpack on a plane.

If you’re planning on taking a hiking trip, you’re naturally going to take a backpack over a suitcase. Hiking backpacks can carry a lot of items, which make them great for long trips.

However, as they can hold a lot of weight, they can be quite large. This makes people wonder if they can take a hiking backpack on a plane or not. 

The answer isn’t as simple as yes or no, as it depends on a few factors. If this interests you, keep reading. We’ll cover whether hiking backpacks can be brought on a plane in this article.  

Table of Contents

Are Hiking Backpacks Allowed As Carry-On Luggage?

In most cases, airlines have rules that specify what you are allowed to bring as carry-on luggage. These rules vary with different airlines, as they will all have specific width, height, depth, and weight requirements.

Most backpacks can be measured in dimensions and liters. Generally, most airlines will allow you to carry a backpack as carry-on luggage, as long as it does not exceed 45 liters in volume.

You’ll still need to weigh your bag to make sure that you follow the airline’s weight requirements. Some cheaper airlines may ask for your carry-on bag to be less than the usual 22lbs limit, though you may be able to pay an extra fee to carry more weight.

The maximum size allowance depends on your chosen airline, but the most common dimensions are 22 x 14 x 9 inches. This normally includes handles, wheels, and external pockets.

Always check with your airline a couple of days before you fly, as they might have different rules.

The form of your luggage doesn’t matter. As long as you follow the size and weight requirements, you can take a hiking backpack, suitcase, or handbag.

Will Hiking Backpacks Be Checked?

For safety reasons, airport security will look at your luggage before you board. They will always check the contents, but whether they check the size and weight varies with each airline.

Carrying oversized luggage can draw attention to you, so even if security doesn’t check the size of your bag, they may stop you regardless.

There’s a greater chance that less expensive airlines will check your luggage compared to higher-end ones. This is normally because cheaper airlines are tight on space, so they need to make use of all available capacity.

To be on the safe side, it’s best to follow the airline’s rules.

What If My Hiking Backpack Is Too Big?

If your backpack is already too big for carry-on luggage rules, here are some things that you can do. The first is to hand your backpack in at check-in instead of taking it as a carry-on.

If you’re traveling with several others, you could share any extra space and put some of your things in their bags. Similarly, if no one has any extra room, you could use one larger piece of luggage for everyone’s belongings and hand it in at check-in.

Instead of paying for each person, you’ll save money by using one piece of luggage. You’ll also save room in everyone’s carry-on bags.

If your bag is just over the size or weight requirements, check if the airline allows you to take an extra item with your carry-on. For example, you may be able to take a carry-on bag and your laptop.

If this is the case, simply take your laptop, or other permitted item, out of your bag before you get to security.

How To Pack Hiking Backpack Per TSA Regulations?

Most airlines will let you take miniature bottles of liquids, as long as they don’t exceed 3.4 ounces. Roll-on deodorants and insect repellent containers cannot go over 100 milliliters.

To save as much space as possible, pack non-liquid versions of toiletries, such as bar soap, shampoo bars, solid deodorants, and toothpaste tabs. If you plan on hiking through areas with bears, always go for unscented options.

The TSA does allow you to carry some gear like knives and firearms, but only in checked luggage. These must be stored within a hard casing or a sheath that matches their regulations.

If you don’t meet these, your gear will be taken from you, and in more serious cases, you could face criminal charges.

Things like poles, pickaxes, and trowels must be carried within checked luggage. If you do plan on hiking around bears, do note that you must leave repellent and bear bangers at home.

These aren’t permitted to take on airlines, but you’re free to purchase these when you arrive at your destination. The same rules apply to personal safety items, like pepper spray.

If your airline doesn’t permit gear that you cannot hike without, you can get these shipped to your destination. Companies like FedEx, DHL, and UPS can ship and hold these at your desired location. You can pick them up later by showing your passport as proof of identity.

If you plan on this method, make sure that you send these items as early as possible. Shipping companies handle multiple items each day, so they need adequate time to do so. Make sure that your gear arrives before you land.

Bringing Hiking Backpack As Checked Luggage

If your backpack is too big to take with you on the plane, you’ll have to hand it in as checked luggage. Before you do so, there are a few things that you should keep in mind.

A lot of hikers have external gear on their backpacks, so it’s important to be careful with this when you hand it over at check-in.

A possible scenario is that a tent fastened to your backpack’s exterior might detach in the airplane’s luggage area. This also concerns sleeping pads and hiking poles.

Here are some ways to avoid your external gear becoming an issue on the airplane. One involves casing your backpack within a rain cover. This acts as a barrier that protects your gear from damage and prevents it from causing harm.

If you have enough space, you can take your external gear off of your backpack and store it within your carry-on bag. This will give you peace of mind that your gear is safe and won’t cause any issues in the luggage area.

Before you do this, always check the airline’s rules to see if your gear is allowed through security.

For example, TSA doesn’t allow trekking poles to be taken on board a plan under any circumstances. However, some airlines do allow you to take folding staffs or poles that aren’t sharp in your carry-on.

These rules depend on the airline you’re flying with, so always check the rules before you fly.

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How Can I Take a Hiking Backpack on a Plane?

In this article, we’ll be looking closely at whether or not you can bring a hiking backpack on a plane. Moreover, the precautions you can take to guarantee a hassle-free and easy hiking trip. We’ll review everything, from TSA guidelines for carry-on and checked backpacks to important advice.

Read on to learn everything you need to know about traveling with a hiking backpack. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time backpacker. Once you’ve finished reading this article, you’ll have the knowledge and assurance necessary to travel successfully with your rucksack.

What Will You Learn?

TSA Guidelines for Backpacks

Travelers who want to keep their belongings close at hand during their flight frequently opt for carry-on backpacks. Before taking your hiking backpack on a plane, it’s crucial to remember that the TSA has strict regulations about different aspects of a backpack.

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Check the TSA website for the most current rules and regulations before leaving for the airport with your carry ons. 

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Can I Take a Hiking Backpack on a Plane?

After discussing the TSA regulations for both checked and carry-on backpacks, let’s dive into the main question at hand: 

Yes, you can bring a hiking backpack on a plane to give you a quick answer. To ensure your rucksack is properly packed , remember the policies established by the TSA and your airline.

There are a few considerations when taking a hiking backpack on an airplane.

• Follow the size and weight limits that the TSA and your airline set forth if you’re carrying it on.
• Ensure your rucksack is packed tightly and that any valuable or fragile items are secured before checking it.
• Purchase a TSA-approved lock to guard against unauthorized access to your backpack while it is transported.
• Before you pack your rucksack, check the complete list of prohibited items on the TSA website.

You can bring a hiking backpack on a plane, but always follow the TSA guidelines. You can enjoy your air travel adventure with your dependable hiking backpack by your side.

Choosing the Right Hiking Backpack for Air Travel

When selecting the ideal rucksack for your air travel adventure, keep the following in mind:

There are three main categories of hiking backpacks to take into account when flying:

Daypacks : Daypacks are compact backpacks made for day hikes and shorter excursions. They are ideal for transporting necessities like water, snacks, and extra layers of clothing and typically have a capacity of 20 to 30 liters. Daypacks are a great option for air travel because they are lightweight and convenient to bring on board.

Overnight Packs: Overnight packs have a 35 to 50-liter capacity and are made for overnight trips. They can hold a sleeping bag, tent, and other camping supplies and are bigger than daypacks. Overnight packs are a good choice for air travel if you want to go camping or backpacking while on vacation.

Extended Backpacks: They have a capacity of 50 liters or more and are made for longer backpacking excursions. They can transport all the gear required for lengthy journeys, including food, water, and camping supplies. Extended trip packs are a good choice for air travel if you intend to go backpacking for a considerable amount of time.

What to Look for in an Air Travel Backpack

Look for bags that include:

• For added comfort, there are padded shoulder straps and a waist belt.
• Several pockets and compartments for organization
• A hydration system for convenient access to water while traveling
• A TSA-friendly design with features like a separate laptop compartment that makes it simple to remove during screening

Pick a backpack from a reputable brand, like Osprey, Deuter, or Gregory. Also, look for features like padded shoulder straps, multiple compartments, and a TSA-friendly design.

How to Pack a Hiking Backpack for Air Plane

Packing a hiking backpack for air travel can be difficult, but with a little planning and effectiveness, it can be a stress-free process. The following advice will help you prepare your hiking backpack for air travel .

Choosing the Right Gear

When preparing for an airplane trip, selecting the proper gear is crucial. Pack based on the duration and nature of your trip. Pack only what is necessary rather than extraneous items that will weigh you down and take up space in your rucksack.

Organizing and Compressing Gear

It is essential to make the most of the small amount of space in your backpack. Use packing cubes or stuff sacks to maintain your gear’s organization and compression. To save space and avoid wrinkles, roll your clothing items tightly. Utilize compression straps on your backpack to stabilize your gear during the flight by compressing it.

Tips for Packing Efficiently

Here are some additional suggestions for effective air travel packing:

• Place your heaviest items at the bottom of your bag to distribute weight evenly and keep your rucksack from tipping over.
• Put small items like socks or pants in the space inside your shoes.
• For TSA screening, place your liquids in a transparent plastic bag that is easily accessible.
• Put valuables or delicate items in a separate, padded compartment to protect them during the flight.

In conclusion, packing a hiking backpack for an airplane trip necessitates thoughtful consideration of the equipment you bring, organization, and effective packing methods. Pack only what is necessary to reduce weight and space and leave out any extras.

Use packing cubes or stuff sacks to maintain your gear’s organization and compression. To keep your gear stable during the flight, place your heaviest items at the bottom of your backpack and use compression straps.

If you stick to this advice, you’ll be well on your way to a stress-free and enjoyable hiking adventure with your rucksack by your side.

What to Add in Your Hiking Backpack for Air Travel

It’s crucial to consider your trip’s necessities when packing your hiking pack for air travel. You should pack the following items in your hiking backpacks:

Hiking Equipment

Regarding hiking equipment, bringing the items you’ll need for your particular hike is crucial. This could include hiking poles, a water bottle or hydration system, a first aid kit and a headlamp or torch. To aid in trail navigation, bringing a map, compass, or GPS device is a good idea.

Hiking Boots

Choosing a pair of supportive and comfortable hiking boots is one of the most important things you can pack for a hike. Bring your hiking boots with you on the plane to conserve space in your backpack.

Hiking Clothes

Bring hiking attire that is cozy, breathable, and appropriate for the local climate. Pack a few thin, simple layers to take off or add as the weather changes.

Bring food that is portable, non-perishable, and simple to prepare. Popular choices for hiking excursions include trail mix, energy bars, and freeze-dried meals.

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Waterproof Items

Pack waterproof items like a rain cover for your backpack. A waterproof jacket and a dry bag for your electronics and other items that can protect your things.

Insects Repellent Container

If you do choose to pack insect repellent, there are certain regulations you’ll need to follow to bring it on the plane. According to TSA guidelines, insect repellent containers that are 3.4 ounces or less are allowed in carry-on bags.

Larger containers of insect repellent must be placed in checked bags. It’s also important to note that aerosol insect repellent is not allowed in carry-on or checked bags.

Sleeping Pads

When packing a sleeping pad , it’s important to consider its size and weight. Sleeping pads can range in size from small and compact to large and bulky. So choose a pad that will fit comfortably in your backpack without taking up too much space.

Bonus Tip: How to Air Travel with a Hiking Backpack?

While convenient and enjoyable, flying with a hiking backpack necessitates careful planning and preparation. The following advice will help you travel by air while carrying a hiking backpack:

Preparing for Security Checkpoints

• Knives and other sharp objects are prohibited, so remove them from your backpack.
• Put your liquids in a transparent plastic bag.
• Take your laptop and other electronics out for TSA inspection.
• Wearing slip-on sho es will also help the security checkpoint process go more smoothly.

Handling Your Backpack During the Flight

Depending on the size of your backpack, you may need to check it as baggage or carry it on board as a carry-on item. If you bring it on board, put it in the overhead bin or under the seat. Keeping your backpack organized and closed is crucial to prevent any items from shifting or falling out during the flight.

Tips for International Travel

Packing a hiking rucksack for an international trip necessitates additional planning and preparation. Find out about the airline’s baggage rules and restrictions and the country’s immigration and customs procedures. Ensure that your travel documents, including your passport, are current and simple to find. Packing a small daypack is a good idea to carry necessities like water bottles and snacks during your trip.

It is possible to bring a hiking backpack on a plane, but several important considerations exist. The TSA regulations for both carry-on and checked backpacks and the precise size and weight limitations of your airline must be understood.

Preparation is essential when taking a backpack on an airplane. Make sure to familiarize yourself with your airline’s baggage regulations and pack your rucksack appropriately. Additionally, it’s critical to be knowledgeable about security procedures and have all the required documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i bring a 50l hiking bag on a plane.

bags may vary between airlines, so it’s important to check the specific airline’s regulations.

If your 50L hiking backpack meets the size and weight restrictions set by the airline, then you should be able to bring it on the plane as a carry-on bag. If your backpack is too large or heavy, it may need to be checked in as checked luggage.

Generally speaking, most airlines allow passengers to bring a carry-on bag that measures no more than 22 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches, which includes hiking backpacks. However, the weight limit for carry-on

Can I Fit My Hiking Bag Under My Plane’s Seat?

Most airlines have specific size limitations for carry-on bags that can fit under the seat. Generally, carry-on bags that are smaller than 22 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches are more likely to fit under the seat. However, if your hiking bag is larger than this size, it may not fit under the seat and may need to be placed in the overhead bin.

It’s important to note that the space under the seat may vary depending on the specific airplane and seat location. Some seats may have more room than others, and some airplanes may have different configurations that affect the available space.

Is a 60L Backpack Too Large for a Plane?

A 60L backpack can be considered quite large for air travel, especially if you plan on using it as a carry-on bag. Most airlines have specific size and weight restrictions for carry-on bags, and a 60L backpack may exceed these limits.

It’s important to check with your airline for their specific guidelines on carry-on luggage. Generally, carry-on bags should be small enough to fit in the overhead compartment or under the seat in front of you. For many airlines, carry-on bags cannot exceed 22 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches in size, and should not weigh more than 7-10 kg (15-22 lbs).

Can I Take My Backpack as a Carry in an Airplane?

Whether you can take your backpack as a carry-on on an airplane depends on the airline’s policy and the size of your backpack. Most airlines allow one carry-on bag per passenger, with specific size and weight restrictions.

If your backpack fits within the airline’s carry-on size restrictions and does not exceed the weight limit, you can take it as a carry-on bag. However, if your backpack is too large or exceeds the weight limit, you may need to check it in as a checked bag instead.

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M Fahad Sajjad

Founder & CEO at Meraki Writes

Meraki Writes is a distinguished content marketing agency committed to delivering exceptional content for businesses and online platforms. With a dedicated team of skilled writers and editors, Meraki Writes consistently produces high-quality articles, ensuring client satisfaction and audience engagement. The same team of professionals is responsible for crafting each insightful and well-researched article on Hike Genius, a reputable hiking niche website.

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How to Pack a Backpack for Air Travel: 12 Must-Know Tricks

Hey there! Ever wonder how some folks just nail the travel game by sticking to a backpack? Let’s paint you a picture: You’re hustlin’ at the airport, bobbing and weaving through this massive crowd when bam – you spot someone smooth-sailing with just their carry-on. Shocking stuff, right?

Turns out, stuffing all your essentials in one bag isn’t an art – it shifts things up big time. Nowadays everyone seems to have cottoned on how handy backpacks are for zipping around airports. Think about flying past security checks like they’re no biggie or saying bye-bye to those pesky luggage fees while keeping all your loot within arm’s reach; Now that’s more than being good packers – it’s downright dominion over those pesky carry-on rules.

In our down-to-earth guide ‘ How to Pack a Backpack for Air Travel’, we’ve got something for everyone – whether you’re pinching pennies and want to dodge check-in costs, strive for that minimalist life, or tend to wander around with home on your back as a digital nomad.

So saddle up! We’re unlocking every trick in the book so packing doesn’t feel like rocket science anymore. Your journey should be as dope as where you end up going after all! It’s high time we learn how to zip it light, make peace with sparing ourselves from overweight charges, and live the dream of gliding along freely thanks to that trusty backpack.

Table of Contents

Choosing the Ideal Backpack for Air Travel

Getting ready to take a thrilling flight? One of the big choices you’ll be making is what backpack to bring along. Picking the right backpack can make your whole trip go smoothly, and help make sure you’ve got everything you need while soaring through the skies.

In this bit, we’re gonna guide you through all the important stuff to think about in the realm of air travel backpack packing, explore all kinds of different backpack styles, slip in a few insider secrets, and even chat about some sustainable options for those eco-smart flyers out there.

Key Features to Consider

Size Matters: When it’s time to jet off, you’ll want a backpack that fits the bill. Remember, size is everything when flying, so pick a carry-on bag that won’t give you attitude at the boarding gate. Smaller-scale means less stress and quicker check-ins – no more wrestling with those bulky suitcases.

Weight Considerations: Airlines are fussy about how heavy your bags can be–so keep things light! Choose a bag tough enough for travel but one that’s not going to weigh you down before you even take off.

Compartments Galore: No one likes playing treasure hunts while rummaging through their bag. An organized pack makes life easier – find pockets-a-plenty to put all your bits and bobs in order which would save your precious vacation time from turning into hide-and-seek episodes.

Comfort is Key: Your backpack will practically be glued to you during trips – make sure it’s comfortable! Hands-down winners have padded straps and supportive backs. Bonus if they’re adjustable too; nobody wants backache while sightseeing or trekking up airplane aisles.

Carry-On Restrictions: Different airlines = different rules on carry-on sizes (unfortunately!). To skip unwanted surprises at security checks, know what the bar is set at – choose a backpack compliant with these limits & breeze through border control!

Different Backpack Types

Travel-Specific Backpacks: If you’re always on the go, these backpacks have got your back! They’ve got cool compartments galore, are small enough to squeeze into overhead lockers, and above all – they’re comfy for those long-haul flights.

Hiking Backpacks: So maybe they’re not made especially for flying, but hiking backpacks tick a lot of boxes. They’re tough dudes that’ll last ages, with tons of space for your stuff plus they feel good even after you’ve had them on all day! Just make sure it’s cabin-friendly if this is your bag choice.

Convertible Backpacks: These bad boys can change from backpack to duffel bag or even shoulder bags in no time! This nifty trick has saved us more time than modern GPS when traveling around.

Pro Tips: Lesser-Known Features to Look For

Hidden Compartments: Some bags come with hush-hush pockets or hidden stashes – so clever right? It’s a sneaky way to hide away important things and outsmart any curious eyes.

Water Bottle Pockets: Don’t forget to drink water folks! Bags with outer water bottle holders let you grab a drink without much fuss. Keep sipping!

Lockable Zippers: Lockable zippers add that extra layer of “stay safe” particularly in packed places where sneaky hands might be about.

Sustainable Backpack Options

If being green is big for you (and hey why wouldn’t it be?), hunt down bags made from recycled bits’n’bobs or crafted by brands who care as much about our planet as we do. More and more guys are making awesome sustainable options; going eco doesn’t mean ditching style or quality anymore. Do something great for Mother Earth while exploring her beauty!

Mastering Packing Essentials for Air Travel

Planning for air travel isn’t just about picking out the top-notch backpack; it’s all about nailing down the hack of packing a backpack for airplane travel in a smart way. In this chunk, you’ll get to discover cool ways of packing that help you squeeze more into your bag’s tiny quarters. Say hello to “Roll, Don’t Fold,” make friends with handy-dandy packing cubes, and conquer a bunch of other space-saving secrets! Welcome aboard onto smooth-sailing travels.

The “Roll, Don’t Fold” Method

This ain’t no new kid on the block! “Roll, Don’t Fold” has been an ace up many expert travelers’ sleeves since forever. It’s not only at war with wasted space but also fights away pesky clothes creases! Just start with biggies like jeans and jackets – fold ‘em lengthwise and then roll them tight from bottom to top. You’ll be left not just saving space but also being able to fish out exactly what you need without making a mess inside your backpack.

Packing Cubes: Organizational Wizards

Think packing cubes are mere dividers? Oh boy—you’d be wrong there! These zippered saviors come in different shapes and sizes and can bring order to the otherwise chaotic world of your backpack. Got tops? There’s one cube. Bottoms next, into another cube they go – even undies or accessories have their cozy corner sorted within smaller canvas condos! Trust us guys – invest in these babies; they won’t just keep your stuff trim and taut but will also speed up unpacking when you hit destination-awesome!

Compression Techniques: Maximizing Every Inch

Bet you didn’t know there’s an art to packing for a flight, and it’s all about getting crafty with squeezing stuff in. A cool trick? Use your clothes to jam-pack every inch of your backpack. Think about lobbing socks inside your shoes or coiling up belts and accessories into those sneaky empty spots. This isn’t just smart packing – it helps keep your backpack from looking like a hot mess too.

Unexpected Space Savers: Utilizing Every Pocket

Don’t kid yourself – You’ve ignored some potential payload places in that pack of yours; mesh pockets, hip compartments…heck even that awkward spot behind the zipper! They come in super handy when dealing with bits and bobs. Yeah, we’re talking accessories, toiletries or even chucking in a skinny scarf if it fits! It doesn’t only help stuff more things but also stops you from digging through everything when you need something real quick.

Because let’s face it- The whole aim here is not trying to cram as much garbage as possible (let’s leave that for Tetris), but being clever about what goes where. Think rolling instead of folding clothes, waving ‘hi’ at packing cubes (invest!), mastering compression hacks, and giving forgotten spaces some love is what makes this trip less stressful than last year’s Thanksgiving dinner!

By sticking these tips into practice next time around, trust us honey bun – Not only will an Airline-friendly backpack organization be on our side, but we’re bound to turn this travel shindig into an organized rather fun event!

Unlocking Advanced Air Travel Hacks & Hidden Gems

Traveling by plane can be pretty neat. But packing? Well, that’s a whole different story. We’ve got some secret tips and tricks up our sleeves to make your [flight-friendly backpack preparation] even smoother. Let’s decode the mysteries of flying together, from neatly packing all those gadgets we’re glued to nowadays, to mastering TSA’s tricky toiletry rules along with some hints on what you’d never think to squeeze in your carry-on for comfort during your sky-high journey.

Tech Essentials: Stay Organized on the Go

We live in a techie world where traveling without our devices is unthinkable. So how do you avoid a spaghetti-wire nightmare? Snap-up cable organizers – these babies will help you find just the right charger when you need it without having to dive into wire mayhem. Plus, stashing a portable phone charger will save your day especially if flight delays pop up – after all; nobody wants their lifeline conking out mid-adventure!

Toiletries & Liquids: Navigating TSA Regulations

TSA checkpoints might seem like they need a decoder ring but chill – knowing the inside scoop makes it smooth sailing. Start by swapping out bulky bottles for travel-sized ones for those must-have products–- fits snugly in compliance with TSA regulations AND gives extra room for goodies in your bag! Even slickers are solid toiletries like shampoo bars or toothpaste tabs that cut down liquids (no spillage horrors!) and leave less footprint on Mother Earth while still keeping you fresh as daisies onboard.

Unexpected Carry-On Items: Beyond the Ordinary

Did you know that packing a few out-of-the-box items in your carry-on is cool? If you’re high on sports energy, stick in your super deflated soccer ball or even that snug little yoga mat. Also, how about taking along a musical buddy like the ukulele or maybe the harmonica – they’re welcome too! But hey, do give a peek at what your airline has to say about these. Trust us, adding such funky stuff would surely jazz up your voyage.

Comfort & Wellbeing: Prepare for the Unexpected

Air travel can be crazy – lasting hours and jumping time zones. So why not pack smart for some comfort and health care? Maybe invest in this comfy neck pillow for napping tight; an eye mask to shut off those annoying cabin lights; also earplugs work wonders against noise pollution. These tiny things can bring loads of difference making sure you are all refreshed and ready for an adventurous experience.

While gearing up for a fun air journey, don’t forget the magic in small details – they matter big-time! Explore these essential air travel packing hacks for backpacks to elevate your travel game. Get systematic with all tech-necessary items; crack TSA rules by kitting out with sleek toiletries; lighten up by carrying along some quirky unexpected stuff; but most importantly safeguard your comfort level and take good care of yourself so hopping off that plane becomes more fun than ever!

Explore Bonus: Innovative Packing Strategies for Air Travel

Hey, if you’re gearing up to jet off somewhere nice, you know smart packing for air travel with a backpack isn’t just stuff in a bag – it’s an art! And getting good at it can make your trips way better.

Right here we’re going to spill the beans on some extra nifty packing hacks that go further than plain ol’ basic, making sure you’re ready no matter what comes your way and promises a smoother ride. From climate-switching smarts to wearable Swiss army knives and having a few surprises up your sleeve (or pant leg), let’s dive into super cool ways of jamming stuff into luggage.

Packing for Different Climates: Smart Adaptations

Whether you’re beach-bound or mountain-bound, knowing how to pack right based on where you’re headed is crucial for effectively organizing a backpack for airplane journeys…Cold resort? Hot retreat? Either way–you got this!

For those sunny getaways, light and breathable clothes are boss. We’re talking breezy cotton or linens – oh, and don’t forget the sunhat-plus-sunscreen package deal. Going someplace cold? Layers are gonna be your best buds. Choose pieces that can double-duty through temperature switches nicely without hogging all the space in your bag—an insulated jacket without bulk beats the chill any day!

Multipurpose Clothing: The Traveler’s Wardrobe MVPs

Yeah, so let’s talk about packing smart for your airplane trips. This is where multipurpose clothes come in real handy! Imagine wearing stuff that ticks more than one box – you’ll save precious cargo space and shed a few grams too!

How about taking along a scarf that doesn’t just look fab but can keep you cozy on ice-cold flights? Or those change-up pants that miraculously morph into shorts? Perfect when the weather flips its script! Top it off with shoes as chillaxed as your beachside stroll but hold their own at fancy places too. By stashing gear best suited for any kinda scene, you get to pack light without skimping on style.

Also Read: How to Pack Clothes in a Backpack

“Just in Case” Essentials: Ready for Anything

Let’s be honest here – travel surprises can pop up anywhere, anytime! That’s why having a stash of “just in case” essentials is diamonds (A heads up; we ain’t talking wonders like magic carpets!). Like this nifty rain poncho that packs away almost invisibly until—BAM—an out-of-nowhere deluge ambushes ya.

You’ll stay dry sans adding extra fluff to your luggage. Now here’s another goodie—a mini sewing kit—it may sound downright old school… until threadbare kicks in… trust me – better safe than sorry! Look ahead, foresee scenarios; rather have what ya don’t need than need what ya don’t have– I’m saying… play it safe, buddy!

Sustainable Packing: Minimize Waste, Maximize Impact

Hey Earth lovers, you know packing for a trip in an eco-friendly manner is not just rad but also feels darn great. So how about ditching those one-time-use plastics and swapping them out for stuff that can be reused ?

Like snapping up the coolest refillable water bottle that’ll keep you hydrated wherever your feet roam. And guess what’s next? It’s time to switch to planet-friendly tidbits like shampoo bars and toothpaste tabs – bye-bye pesky plastic tubes! As for clothes? Go for clever pieces that can survive many washes and wears. With these easy tweaks, we’re all geared to limit our carbon footprint while turning travel green.

Packing smart ain’t just about prepping well; it’s carving out greener journeys. So here’s wishing you happy (and safe) wanderings!

Also Read: How to Pack a Suit in a Backpack

Alright, pal. Here’s the lowdown on how to pack a backpack for air travel – and do it like a pro! First up, remember that being clever with how you pack can take the hassle out of traveling. You know the score; use techniques like rolling instead of folding, using those nifty little packing cubes, and squishing everything down to make maximum use of every inch. This will not only keep all your gear in order but also speed things up at security.

The next thing is adaptability. It’s always about expecting the unexpected, whether it be changing weather or other surprises along the way. Be smart with your clothing choices––pack pieces that work double time in multiple climates and scenarios (also known as “just in case” items). Keep looking ahead so that whatever comes your way won’t catch you unprepared.

And lastly? Think multi-purpose! Look for stuff that does more than one job – from clothes to travel essentials – and each piece adds value without adding weight to your bag. A well-chosen item can do several things at once making life easier on the road. You’ll find all this advice makes traveling by air just a tad bit less stressful and quite a lot more fun!

Going green even when packing is a thing now, you know? Choosing stuff that’s good for the planet, saying no to those nasty single-use plastics and not going overboard with what we buy can help make traveling more eco-friendly. When you pack keeping Mother Earth in mind, your trips are about more than just sightseeing – they’re about being kind to our planet too.

Knowing how to pack smart isn’t just about squishing as much as possible into your bag. It’s also about choosing wisely, being flexible, and thinking ahead for packing a backpack for airplane travel. So next time you’re jetting off somewhere cool, remember this: a well-packed bag isn’t just something you lug around – it’s the key to a hassle-free epic journey! Enjoy your trip!

Also Read: How to Pack an External Frame Backpack

How to Pack a Backpack for Air Travel: FAQs

How do you pack a backpack for a flight.

To pack a backpack for a flight, start by prioritizing essentials like travel documents, medications, and electronics. Utilize the “Roll, Don’t Fold” method to save space and minimize wrinkles in clothing. Invest in packing cubes to keep items organized, and pack heavier items closer to your back for better weight distribution. Consider the climate at your destination and pack accordingly. Opt for versatile, multipurpose clothing. Don’t forget “just in case” essentials like a rain poncho or a travel sewing kit. Finally, adhere to airline carry-on restrictions and pack thoughtfully for a seamless and stress-free journey.

What is the best way to pack a travel backpack?

The best way to pack a travel backpack is to prioritize essentials, use the “Roll, Don’t Fold” technique for efficient space utilization, and invest in packing cubes for organization. Pack heavier items closer to your back for better balance and comfort. Opt for versatile clothing and consider the weather at your destination. Utilize every available pocket, including hidden compartments, and pack “just in case” essentials. Follow airline carry-on restrictions for a hassle-free journey. Prioritizing simplicity and organization ensures a well-packed and functional travel backpack.

How do you wrap a backpack for air travel?

To prepare a backpack for air travel, start by removing any loose straps. Use a travel cover or a durable plastic bag to protect it from dirt and damage. Place a luggage tag with your contact information inside the bag. Secure zippers with travel locks for added security. Avoid overpacking to comply with airline regulations. Wrapping a backpack ensures it arrives at your destination in good condition, safeguarding it from potential wear and tear during the journey.

Can I put clothes in my backpack on a plane?

Certainly! You can pack clothes in your backpack for a plane journey. It’s a common and practical practice. Use the “Roll, Don’t Fold” method to save space and reduce wrinkles. Consider the destination’s climate and pack accordingly. Ensure any liquids adhere to airline regulations and place them in a sealed bag. Remember to include essential items like travel documents and personal necessities . Airlines generally allow passengers to carry a backpack as a carry-on item, making it a convenient and accessible choice for keeping your belongings close during the flight.

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

Our simulations reveal which bags you can count on

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

TripSavvy / Chloe Jeong

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

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

Final Verdict

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

• What to Look For

Why Trust TripSavvy

Best overall, cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack.

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

Super durable material

Very comfortable with multiple carry methods

Lighter and more rugged than previous models

Nothing yet

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

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

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

TripSavvy / Jhett Thompson

Best Overall, Runner-Up

Osprey fairview 40.

Quite spacious while remaining carry-on sized

Keeps belongings secure

Good padding and weight distribution

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

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

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

Best Budget

Vancropak 40l travel backpack.

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

Great for a short-to-medium-length trip

Could double as a business travel pack

Feature packed and user friendly

Lacks tech compartment

Cloth material could get dirty easily

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

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

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

Asenlin 40L Travel Backpack

Functional straps

Multiple ways to carry

Not too weighty

Our tester didn’t love the style

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

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

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

Best for Business Travel

Nomatic travel bag.

• Comfort 3 /5

Fits about a week’s worth of items

Loads of internal organization

Comes with an additional laundry bag

Uncomfortable to carry at times

Some scuff marks after tossing around

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

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

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

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

Best Multi-use

Peak design travel backpack 45l.

• Value 4.5 /5

Excellent capacity

Easy to handle

Thoughtful storage solutions

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

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

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

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

TripSavvy / Conor Ralph

Most Comfortable

Topo designs global travel bag 40l.

Topo Designs

Excellent internal organization

Many different carrying options

Great for long travel days

Could be roomier

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

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

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

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

Best Splurge

Bellroy transit backpack plus.

Flat opening made for easy packing

Comfortable to carry

Long lasting

Minimal internal organization

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

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

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

Samsonite Silhouette 17 Backpack

• Design 4 /5
• Durability 4 /5

Suitcase-like opening allows easy access

Eco-friendly materials

Suitable for long travel days

Internal organization may be overcomplicated for some

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

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

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

Best for Techies

Thule subterra backpack 34l.

Functional and looks good

Bag included for dirty laundry

Portable charger

Not the most comfortable

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

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

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

Best for Storage

Mystery ranch mission rover.

Mystery Ranch

Sturdy with grab handles around the pack

Well-designed internal storage

Different ways to carry

A bit heavy

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What to Look For in a Carry-on Backpack

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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

(limited colors)

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.

with members-only single use code ANNIV24

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Osprey Farpoint 40

For long distances on foot.

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

Osprey Fairview 40

For long distances and smaller torsos.

A scaled-down version of the Farpoint, this bag has shoulder straps that are slightly lower, to keep the bag’s bulk more aligned with smaller torsos.

Updated in 2023, the Osprey Farpoint 40 and Fairview 40 packs are both built around a hiking backpack frame that’s easy to carry over long distances.

It’s built for travel but designed for hiking. The Farpoint 40 bag is well made, easy to pack, and comfortable to carry over most mid-length distances—such as walking across a city for an afternoon. (For simplicity’s sake, everything we say here about the Farpoint bag also applies to the Fairview bag.) Osprey makes excellent backpacks for hauling around, and its lifetime warranty is renowned within the industry . The Farpoint pack also has an optional messenger bag–style strap, which offers some flexibility when you’re maneuvering tight spaces like subways or crowded city centers.

It’s simple to pack, but not as spacious as it seems. Opening the bag reveals a clamshell design; it’s deep enough to accommodate most large items, yet you won’t have to fumble awkwardly with zippers once it’s time to close up the bag. The feeling you get is not unlike when you’re packing a bit of sturdy luggage, and that’s something we love about bags like this one—especially when you use packing cubes . Osprey says this bag, when fully packed, can carry 40 liters. But after using the Farpoint bag for a few years, we’ve decided that its rounded shape seems to cut into that theoretical packable space more than other bags do. In practice, the Farpoint pack’s available space is closer to—but still less than—that of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L .

It’s the easiest bag to carry among our picks. Like all Osprey bags, the Farpoint 40 has very comfortable shoulder straps. The years of design and consideration Osprey has put into its hiking backpacks are quite evident in the Farpoint 40. After more than seven years of long-term testing this bag, we’re still surprised by how great it feels to wear when fully packed. Crucially, the straps of the Farpoint 40 stow away neatly behind a zippered panel. However, when you’re using the shoulder straps, the design forces you to also use the hip straps. Though this isn’t a huge issue, if you prefer a sleeker look or would rather have the option of using shoulder straps without hip straps, the Cotopaxi Allpa pack is more flexible, and it lets you hide the waist straps while the bag is on your back.

The Fairview 40 has the same features, in a scaled-down size. The Farpoint 40 and the Fairview 40 packs basically have the same design, but the Fairview pack is made for someone with a more-diminutive torso. It’s also slightly lighter. However, it has the features and durability of the Farpoint bag. It also has the same hip belt and adjustability. On both, the chest-strap clip is also equipped with a small security whistle that’s surprisingly loud. It’s a handy feature for anyone traveling in unfamiliar environments.

• For a smaller carry-on travel backpack, this one has little to not like. However, we do wish Osprey would trade some of the sleeker contours for a little more interior space.

Capacity: 35 liters Weight (Farpoint): 3 pounds 3 ounces Weight (Fairview): 3 pounds 2 ounces Main compartment access: front-panel loader Style: active Colors (Farpoint): green (Gopher), gray (Tunnel Vision), blue (Muted Space), black Colors (Fairview): blue (Winter Night), red (Zircon), blue (Night Jungle), black

Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L

A suitcase to carry on your back.

For dedicated single-bag travelers, this water-resistant, durable bag is easy to pack and to travel with. And it’s comfortable to wear over endless miles—as long as you don’t mind the heavier weight.

The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L maximizes packing space in a bag that’s durable, water-resistant, and customizable to fit most torso lengths (there’s also a 30L version ), with plenty of organizational features to suit any digital nomad.

It’s like a suitcase, with backpack straps. The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L is built to occupy the maximum carry-on space available. It’s a nearly perfect blend of backpack and luggage. On the outside, its tear-resistant sailcloth and sealed zippers provide ample protection from sharp objects and the elements. Opening the main clamshell zipper reveals a cavernous interior and a few organizational features that make the bag a cinch to pack. The front panel is a particular standout, great for keeping track of electronics and chargers. Of all the bags we tested, the Tortuga strikes the closest balance between the carrying comfort of a hiking backpack and the space and organization of a piece of luggage.

It’s as easy to pack as luggage. When it comes to packing, the Tortuga pack has a soothingly minimal interior, as any good suitcase should. In addition to the bag’s cavernous main pocket, its interior lid has a large vented panel. The panel is too narrow to hold additional packing cubes, but it’s great for holding light jackets or doubling as a dirty-laundry bag (if you’re really committed to one-bag travel). The Tortuga is available as a 40-liter pack (the maximum space for a carry-on bag), which we tested; there is also a 30-liter version, which is compliant with some intra-European flights. The more-diminutive version is a decent choice for weekend travel or for minimalist travelers—but for those uses, we prefer the space-saving profile and extra internal organization of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L bag.

It’s very customizable. The Tortuga pack is the most adjustable model we tested, thanks to its adjustable torso length, shoulder straps, and waist-belt system. The adjustable strap system lets you manipulate the location of the shoulder straps (video) to fit a wider variety of body sizes, in both the 30- and 40-liter versions. Of the packs we’ve tested, this one (with its included load-adjuster straps at the top, to prevent the bag’s weight from sagging toward your lumbar region) is the best at distributing its weight (4½ pounds when empty—roughly 1½ pounds more than most of our other picks, except the Peak Design ). The hip straps are removable if you need, but the shoulder straps are not stowable.

• Its straps don’t stow away. Some people, especially those who are hard on their gear, may consider not being able to remove or stow the shoulder straps (as they can with our other picks, like the Cotopaxi Allpa ) a disqualifying factor. But after years of testing, traveling with, and occasionally checking our bag, we haven’t had an issue. However, if these mysteries beneath the airport also make you nervous, you might prefer our picks with easy-to-stow straps, such as the Peak Design.
• It's heavy. We’ve fielded complaints from some testers who said that older models of this bag were too heavy for them to carry, even with the padded hip belt and adjustable straps. The additional padding does add weight. At 4½ pounds, this latest Tortuga bag is more than half a pound lighter than it used to be (the difference is noticeable), and it weighs the same as the equally large Peak Design pack. We are currently testing a new, lighter, and less-expensive version of this pack—aptly named the Travel Backpack Lite 40L —and will report back soon.  In the meantime, if you think you would struggle carrying the Tortuga, we strenuously encourage you to consider one of our more-manageable picks, like the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L.

Capacity: 40 liters Weight: 4½ pounds Main compartment access: clamshell opening Style: minimal, with a rigid construction Color: black

If you want to travel like a backpacker but also fit in at a board meeting (and you have the budget for it): Consider the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 45 . This bag’s reputation for durability, adaptability, and a low-key aesthetic make it a favorite among many dedicated one-bag travelers. And after testing it, we think it’s a great bag too. That said, for the bag to really stand out against other backpacks—and to take full advantage of its carrying adaptability—you need to buy the internal frame , the hip belt , and (if you’re traveling with a suit or jacket) the shoulder strap . On a bag that already costs $330, all of this adds up. Everything about the Tom Bihn bag (the fabric, the zippers, the quality of construction) feels like an upgrade from other bags, but it’s simply too pricey, and its design is too rarified and specific for most people. The biggest flaw, from our perspective—apart from the price—is that the Tom Bihn bag lacks a dedicated laptop pocket. In its place, the company sells laptop sleeves (a fine version if you don’t have one) that clip into the bag’s central compartment. Not everyone needs a dedicated laptop pocket, but we prefer the more secure feeling of bags that do.

If you want a budget pick (but only when it’s on sale): The eBags Mother Lode Travel Backpack (our former budget pick) is still your best budget option, if you can catch it on sale for at least half off the list price. It’s not comfortable enough for trekking long distances on foot, but there are plenty of external pockets for organization, a laptop sleeve (which holds the weight of your computer high up on your shoulders), and an easy-to-access main compartment. This pack also has the largest capacity of any bags we tested, expanding to 65 liters—well beyond any airline’s regulated 45-liter limit. However, the bag’s casual-to-basic looks might not be to everyone’s taste. In 2024, eBags raised the price of the Mother Lode to $200. We have seen it on sale for $100, and in our opinion it’s worth getting only at the sale price.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

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

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

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

Meet your guide

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

Further reading

The Best Travel Backpack

by Geoffrey Morrison

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

Wirecutter’s Favorite Bags, Totes, Backpacks and Carryalls

by Truth Headlam

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

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

The Best Laptop Backpacks

by Zoe Vanderweide

A great laptop backpack protects your tech, is comfortable to carry, and looks good, too. These five bags are our favorites for wrangling your workday gear.

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8 Versatile Backpacks That Are Free to Carry On

See recent posts by Peter Thornton

If you're confused on what you may bring onboard for free these days, you're not alone. More and more airlines are slimming their economy fare down to include nothing but transportation for you and an ambiguous "personal item". Exact dimensions for a personal item will vary slightly by airline, but in general, it needs to be an item that will fit underneath the seat in front of you.

Small Backpacks That Fit Personal Item Dimensions

If you're able to pack super light, you can still get by on short trips with just a small backpack. Some minimalists may even be able to travel this way on extended trips. Here are some top picks for backpacks that will always be free to carry on-board.

Boarding Blue Personal Item Laptop Backpack

This bag is spacious and durable without the high price tag. It has many compartments to organize your belongings and weighing in at just 1 lb., it won't break your back either.

Modoker Vintage Laptop Backpack

This backpack is both stylish and functional. It's small enough to fit even the most stringent personal item limits, but can still pack what you need for a quick weekend trip . The standout feature of this vintage laptop bag is its pocket specifically designed to hold a backup battery so you can easily charge your phone on the go.

Related: How to Avoid Paying Airline Seat Fees

Volher anti-theft laptop backpack.

With its thick, durable design, suitcase strap, and extra-padded shoulder straps, this bag was built for trekking through the airport. A separate laptop compartment can fit devices up to 15 inches and the water-resistant polyester fabric means your tech won't be at risk if you encounter some turbulence while sipping your in-flight drink. With multiple pockets, your belongings will be well organized for your entire trip.

Osprey Axis 18 Laptop Backpack

From one of the top-rated brands, this Osprey pack is great for the trail and also includes a padded laptop sleeve for multiple uses. The bungee compression system allows you to easily store your jacket on the outside and the removable waist belt will keep the bag positioned correctly on your back.

Related: The Best Checked Luggage for Travel

Jansport hatchet backpack.

A classic name in backpacks, JanSport has come out with a stylish pack that can be used for more than lugging school books to and from class. This spacious pack has many compartments inside and comes in many different color choices for you to match your favorite look.

eBags Professional Slim Laptop Backpack

A sleek and well thought out pack from eBags. This bag comes with a lifetime warranty and separates your laptop into a fully padded, lockable compartment. It has a low profile design and all the compartments you could think of to keep your life organized. The pack can also easily convert to a briefcase allowing you to have a professional look by day with the option to comfortably carry on your back while sightseeing.

Related: 10 Airline Perks That Are Still Free on U.S. Airlines

Travelon anti-theft heritage backpack.

A nice looking canvas bag that has a padded laptop sleeve and an RFID blocking compartment. The locking zippers are a nice feature to give you some peace of mind if you carry any valuables on your back. With a slash-resistant body and shoulder strap, this pack has all the security you could ever find in a backpack.

Modoker Vintage Canvas Backpack

Another canvas backpack with an old-school vibe. This bag is suitable for multiple activities from hiking to strolling the city streets. It features high-quality metal hardware and 100% cotton canvas along with genuine leather. Suitable for both men and women, this pack comes in a variety of colors to go with your choice of fashion.

Related: How to Pack in Just a Personal Item Sized Bag

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Product images: Amazon and JanSport

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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

Our best value backpack  — the Matein Travel Backpack (in select colors) — is further discounted right now for Memorial Day weekend.

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 backpack, 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. 

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.

Topo Designs

• 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

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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Backpacking Russia

Looking for important travel information while backpacking in Russia? Here you will find information on working in Russia, entry visas, Russia hostels , and much more.

Table of Contents

Facts About Russia

• Entry Visa Requirements for Russia
• Foreigner Work Permits and Backpacker Jobs in Russia
• Russia Hostels

Russia is a transcontinental country composed of parts of Asia and Europe (cumulatively entitled Eurasia) and, as such, is comfortably the largest country in the world with an area of 17,075,400km², and the ninth most populous country in the world, with approximately 142 million citizens.

Its immense size is such that Russia borders countries such as Norway and Finland, but also China, Mongolia and North Korea, and provides easy access to other countries like the United States and Japan.

Churchill once said that ‘Russia is a riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma’ and its history goes a long way to explaining why this image has endured. Originally inhabited by scattered tribes like the Proto-Indo-Europeans and the Scythians, much of the territory’s ancient history was dominated by the presence of warlike bodies of men, most notably the Huns and the Khazars, many of whom would later make their mark in Europe.

Russia’s lineage, on the other hand, starts with the state of Kievan Rus, composed of the Varangians and the Slavs in the region, which became the largest and one of the most prosperous states in Europe in the 10th to 11th centuries AD. Needless to say, this arrangement did not persist due to Turkish incursions, with the Novgorod Republic state and the Vladimir-Suzdal principality rising and falling in turn thereafter.

A measure of stability was only achieved with the Grand Duchy of Moscow (Muscovy), which lasted between 1340 and 1547 and set about uniting much of the territory under its rule as well as leading to the well-known Tsarist era from the 17th century up until the 1917 Revolution.

Russia’s history in the 20th century was dominated by the influence of communism, with the rise of the Bolsheviks and then the Soviet Union. The Great Patriotic War (otherwise known as World War II) and the Cold War, both central to the Soviet Union, were also pivotal in establishing the Russia we know (and frequently misunderstand) today.

Moreover, despite the demise of the USSR in 1991, communism continues to influence Russia’s outlook and state today, although under Vladimir Putin the country has started to recover economically and has also regained a substantial degree of political influence.

Nevertheless, while Moscow and St. Petersburg represent very strong tourist centres, the country as a whole still enjoys a remarkable mystique and certainly makes it one of the most interesting places to visit in the world.

• Population – 142,754,000 (2006 estimate)
• Language – Russian
• Currency – Ruble
• Time Zone – GMT + 4 (in Moscow)
• Phone Code – +7

Climate in Russia

With a distance of approximately 8,000 kilometres between the two most widely separated points in the country, defining Russia’s climate singularly is impossible. The areas of European and Asian Russia generally enjoy a continental climate, but mountainous terrain elsewhere can mean the influence of Arctic and Atlantic climates, while certain areas around the Black Sea can be said to have sub-tropical temperatures during the year.

However, across much of Russia, there are only two distinct seasons – winter and summer – and this Arctic influence has given rise to fears over the harsh conditions during the Russian winter (which put paid to both Napoleon and Hitler during their respective invasions).

The coldest month is typically held to be January, with the warmest being July. As a major tourist centre, Moscow is indicative as to what to expect in Russia but, should you venture elsewhere, be prepared for anything from minor differences to extreme polarities:

Things to do in Russia

Much tourism in Russia, even for backpackers, revolves around Moscow and St. Petersburg. This is understandable, as they have been the two most historically significant cities in the country and, moreover, possess almost all of Russia’s most recognisable landmarks and sights.

Starting with Moscow, the immediate attraction for visitors is the incredible Red Square ( krasnaya ploschad ). Separating the Kremlin (the former royal citadel and current residence of the Russian president) from the merchant quarter of Kitay-gorod, Red Square is the most famous square in the country (and arguably in the world) and all the major streets in the city gravitate towards it. Established in 1493 after the wooden buildings on the territory were cleared by Ivan III, the name itself bears no relation to communism nor to the prevalence of red in the square, but rather to the fact that the Russian  krasnaya  can be translated as both ‘red’ and ‘beautiful’ and was initially used to refer to nearby St. Basil’s, but was then associated with the square as a whole.

Established as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1990, Red Square is today considered a landmark in its own right but owes much of its pedigree to the surrounding sights. Prominent in this regard is St. Basil’s Cathedral. A multi-tented church with distinctive onion domes, the Cathedral was built between 1555 and 1561 under the rule of Ivan IV (otherwise known as Ivan The Terrible) to commemorate the capture of Kazan and legend has it that Ivan, true to his personality, had the architect, Postnik Yakovlev, blinded so he wouldn’t be able to build anything that might be more beautiful. Either way, the Cathedral stands today as a symbol of the marriage of Europe and Asia which has made Russia so remarkable.

Adjacent to and overlooking Red Square is the Kremlin complex. The word  kremlin is actually defined as a citadel, with Moscow one the most famous, being the historical seat of government. Composed of four palaces, four cathedrals and a series of towers, the Kremlin has been inhabited since the 2nd millennium BC, although the term kremlin  was only recorded first in the 14th century. As well as its huge political importance, the Kremlin is also a major tourist attraction today, being home to sights like Cathedral Square, Ivan the Great Bell Tower, the Grand Kremlin Palace and the Kremlin Armory Museum (home to a number of the famous Faberge Eggs).

Other hugely important sights in Moscow include Lenin’s Mausoleum – also part of Red Square and home to the embalmed (and increasingly plastic) body of Lenin – and the incredible Tretyakov Gallery, home to the best in Russian art as well as a whole host of prominent works from European artists, not to mention the world-famous Bolshoi Theatre and the immense Cathedral of Christ the Saviour.

St. Petersburg

Twice the capital of Russia (between 1712-1728 and 1732-1918), St. Petersburg’s significance in history is unquestioned and reflected in its own long list of beautiful landmarks. Of particular note are the many incredible cathedrals, such as the Peter and Paul Cathedral (located inside the Peter and Paul Fortress and the oldest landmark in St. Petersburg, being built between 1703 and 1733), St. Isaac’s Cathedral, and the Church of the Saviour on Blood (referring to the blood of the assassinated Alexander II, wounded in 1881 on the site).

Additionally, St. Petersburg has arguably the greatest selection of cultural repositories in the country, being home to the Summer Palace of Peter the Great, the Russian Museum and, the jewel in its crown, the Hermitage Museum. One of the largest art museums in the world, with approximately 3 million works of art in its coffers displayed across six buildings (the most famous being the Winter Palace), the Hermitage collection was started by Catherine the Great in 1764 and has only expanded since then. Today, the collection is highlighted by the gargantuan selection of Russian artworks, as well as examples of the European greats such as Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, Rembrandt, Picasso, van Gogh and Matisse.

Naturally the above represents but a fraction of what can be found in Russia as a whole but, if culture is your thing, you simply cannot avoid the big two cities. Use them as a base, branch out elsewhere and see what else you can discover.

Tours and activities in Russia

Another good way to get an idea of what to do is to scan the activities offered by Get Your Guide or Viator . They work directly with local tour operators, so you won’t have to scour the internet or roam around town trying to find the best deal.

If you know your schedule ahead of time, a great insider tip is to buy tickets for major tourist attractions ahead of time. Tiqets has entrance tickets and skip the line passes for major attractions in Moscow and Saint Petersburg so that you can avoid the lines and save that precious time for more exploring.

How to Travel Around Russia

Moscow is the main destination for international flights , with the city hosting a large number of airports. The largest of these is Domodedovo International Airport, which is also the busiest airport in Russia and carries flights from London-Heathrow courtesy of British Airways, Transaero and bmi.

The other major airports are Sheremetyevo International Airport, which flies to and from London-Heathrow with Aeroflot, and Vnukovo International Airport. All three of the airports are comfortably outside the city centre though, so make plans for getting there once you arrive.

If you’re flying to Russia or plan to take short flights within the country, we recommend using a few different flight comparison search engines. Kiwi is a new favourite among travellers. On average, we have found the cheapest flights with them compared to the other websites out there.

Of course, it is always worth checking Skyscanner to guarantee you’re getting the best deal. Both websites offer great flexible search options, allowing you to search the whole country of Russia to find the cheapest airport to fly into, and also see prices for a full month if you’re flexible on travel dates. 

Travel within Russia

Once inside the country, and particularly in the two major cities, travelling around is relatively easy. The Moscow Metro carries some 12 lines covering 172 stations, making travel across the city fairly convenient, while the Saint Petersburg Metro covers 60 stations across 4 lines.

Travelling around the country, and to other bordering states, is facilitated by the rail service. Russia has links with Finland, China, Azerbaijan, Mongolia, North Korea and many other states, as well as proposed links with Japan, Alaska and Norway. Using these lines is also a fantastic way to see the rest of the country beyond the major tourist destinations.

Driving in Russia

You may also want the flexibility to stop in smaller towns between the major cities. If you decide you want to rent a car in Russia, you can use DiscoverCars to compare offers from the major car rental agencies in the region.

Small Group Adventure Travel

Though part of the fun of backpacking is exploring on your own, there are situations, especially when venturing off the tourist trail, when it does make sense to go with a guide or a small group. For these times, a popular option among backpackers is G Adventures . They hand-select local guides to ensure authenticity and quality. This is especially a good option for those travelling alone who would like to meet up with like-minded travellers. Their most popular trips in Russia are their Classic 12 Day Tour and their Trans-Siberian Railroad tours originating in Moscow.

Health and Safety in Russia

As with travel to all other countries abroad, it is vital that you get travel insurance before you leave.  Healthcare in Russia, although slowly improving, remains in a poor way, with the death rate comfortably out-stripping the birth rate every year and public hospitals woefully underfunded.

Therefore, do not expect decent service if you do need to visit one of Russia’s hospitals, even if you happen to be in Moscow or St. Petersburg. However, in terms of entering Russia, there are no medical restrictions.

While staying in the country, avoid tap water at all costs. Throughout most of Russia, it is non-potable and therefore purchasing bottled water is strongly advised wherever you visit.

Entry visa requirements for Russia

Visitors to Russia will require a visa , with very few exceptions, and it must be purchased before travelling. Although the system has improved with the introduction of electronic application forms, it remains complicated and relatively expensive, with the decision solely at the discretion of the Russian Consulate.

Moreover, once the visa has been issued, it will detail strict dates which cannot be ignored, on pain of serious penalties. To apply for a visa, go to  visitrussia.org . Your exit visa will be given alongside the entry visa and is, naturally, vital for departure.

When you arrive in the country, you will be required to fill out a migration card in order for the authorities to track your movements. In addition, your hotel will usually ask for your passport, visa and migration card when checking-in, and may retain the passport in a safe place.

Foreigner work permits and backpacker jobs in Russia

Finding a job is, to a certain extent, not as hard as dealing with the mass of paperwork that must be filled in prior to arriving. Getting an invitation to visit Russia, as well as a visa and a work permit takes a considerable amount of time and money.

In fact, such is the difficulty of acquiring a temporary residence visa that many aspiring workers choose instead to apply and then re-apply for a business visa (each one lasting for one year). To make things even harder, if you wish to stay in Russia for longer than three months, you will have to have a series of medical tests, including those for HIV, TB and VD.

Teaching English in Russia

The most common profession for foreigners is teaching English, and there are a whole host of schools in the major cities that can be contacted about jobs, most of which offer accommodation as part of the contract. That said, there are other possible avenues if you are prepared to search. A good place to start is the list of websites on  Anywork Anywhere .

Russia Hostels and Budget Accommodation

Accommodation in the major cities is easily achieved, mainly because of communism’s legacy. The establishment of huge hotels during the 1970s when the Soviet Union accepted a degree of tourism means that there are plenty of options for visitors today. Nevertheless, anyone planning a visit should spend a decent amount of time researching their hotel or hostel .

We have had good experiences finding hostels on HostelWorld . They have the largest inventory of hostels worldwide, and with over 10 million reviews and ratings from other travellers, you know exactly what to expect.

Another good way to find accommodation in Russia is by checking hotels.com and  booking.com . With both sites, you’ll not only find hotels, but also homestays, hostels, and other unique accommodation. We have discovered some great finds and have appreciated the ability to book ahead. You can use their advanced filtering to narrow your results by budget, location score, overall review score, and amenities. Many of the places on booking.com also offer free cancellation, which takes the pressure off the planning phase of your trip.

Useful links for travel in Russia

• Auto Europe and Europcar – Europe’s leading rental car search engines
• Kiwi , Skyscanner , and Opodo – Flight comparison search engines to find the cheapest flights to Russia and within the country
• GetYourGuide and Viator – a collection of local tours and activities. Also offers Skip the Line tickets for crowded attractions
• Tiqets – Website selling entrance tickets and skip the line tickets for major attractions
• G Adventures – guided small group tours, great for solo travellers or for those interested in a more adventurous trip which would require a guide
• HostelWorld – #1 hostel search website. Thousands of hostels and millions of reviews from fellow travellers
• Booking.com – commonly used booking site. Hostels, hotels, and other unique accommodation with advanced filtering and millions of reviews
• Travel Insurance – read our comprehensive overview of Travel Insurance and some recommended providers

There you have it, the ultimate Russia backpacking guide. We hope you have found all the information you need for  backpacking around Russia .

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TSA highlights features of new security checkpoint at Pullman-Moscow Regional Airport

PULLMAN, Washington - Officials with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) today previewed the new security checkpoint in the new airport terminal at Pullman-Moscow Regional Airport (PUW). The checkpoint, which is located in the new terminal lobby, has one lane to screen departing travelers with space to expand to a second lane in the future.

“TSA is excited to begin security screening at the new PUW terminal. We have worked closely with the airport on the design of the security checkpoint to ensure it provides an ideal environment for TSA officers carry-out their important role in airport operations,” said TSA Federal Security Director for Washington Greg Hawko. “Thank you to the airport board for investing in TSA that will allow us to deliver the highest level of security in the most efficient manner." 

TSA began screening passengers in the new terminal at 4 a.m. on Wednesday, May 22, 2024, ahead of the inaugural flight that departed shortly after 5 a.m. The terminal has been under construction for two years and is six times larger than the building it is replacing.

The security checkpoint features expanded queuing space for travelers. There is also a dedicated TSA PreCheck® entrance as well as an area for general screening. There is one travel document checking podium where a TSA officer will conduct identity verification of travelers. In addition, travelers will notice a bright and more open space in the security checkpoint.

Travelers will see familiar security technologies in use when being screened at PUW. 

Passenger screening technologies The checkpoint is outfitted with a body scanner as well as a walk-through metal detector to screen individual travelers. Body scanners use a harmless electromagnetic wave to scan the passenger to detect metallic or non-metallic objects that may be concealed in layers of clothing or on the body. The body scanner is equipped with software that creates a standardized, computer generated image that is the same for every traveler. If the body scanner detects a potential security threat, a yellow box appears on the generic image, onscreen, and that identifies where the TSA officer needs to conduct any follow-up screening. 

Because the body scanner is not a metal detector, many travelers including those with metal hips or knee replacements prefer to be screened by it. In addition, the body scanner does not use x-ray technology and it does not generate x-ray specific images of any traveler. 

Bottle liquid scanner TSA allows travelers to bring medically-necessary liquids in carry-on luggage in quantities larger than 100 ml / 3.4 ounces. In order to ensure that these items do not pose a security threat, TSA utilizes a liquid explosive detection system, which uses lasers to measure the density of the liquid without having to open the container. This type of screening takes seconds and can be used to screen liquids and gels.

Explosive trace detection screening TSOs may conduct explosive trace detection (ETD) screening that involves a swab of a traveler’s hands or their belongings in the security checkpoint. The swab is inserted into a specially- programmed ETD unit that can detect even the smallest amount of explosive residue. TSA has a process in place to resolve any alarms related to the detection of explosive residue.

Checked baggage screening TSA is required by law to screen every bag that is transported on a commercial aircraft, regardless of whether the bag travels in the cabin of the aircraft as carry-on luggage or if it is checked with the airline. The checked baggage screening system at PUW has been upgraded and features an integrated Explosive Detection System (EDS) X-ray unit that uses computed tomography to create a 3-D X-ray image of the contents of each checked bag. This screening is conducted out of the view of the traveling public.

The EDS software is programmed to detect potential security threats. Through a sophisticated and swift analysis of the 3-D image, the EDS is able to determine whether the bag is cleared for travel or if it requires follow-up screening.

If the EDS unit identifies a potential security threat, the image of the contents of the bag will be reviewed to determine if the bag is cleared to travel or if it needs to be sent for a physical inspection by a TSA officer. If a bag requires physical inspection, that screening is conducted in clear view of a closed-circuit television camera.

Travelers receive a “Notice of Inspection” in the bag if it has been opened by a TSA officer. Once the bag is cleared of any security threats and ready for travel, it is repacked and closed prior to handoff to the airline.

The vast majority of bags screened by the EDS do not require additional screening. If a bag is cleared by the EDS, it continues onto an aircraft without any TSA contact.

In 2023, TSA at PUW screened nearly 66,000 departing travelers.

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Backpacking Russia (Ultimate Budget Travel Guide for 2024)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

What regions make up Russia?

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

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

Russia Highlights

Kaliningrad – a tiny Russian enclave on the Baltic Sea

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

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

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

Mount Elbrus – Europe’s highest mountain!

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

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

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

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

Suggested Russia Itineraries

1 week – Moscow and St. Petersburg

2 weeks – St. Petersburg – Moscow – Yekaterinburg

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

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

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

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

Daily budget for backpacking Russia

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

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

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

Russia Visas

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

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

Language in Russia

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

Getting to Russia

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

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

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

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

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

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

Belarus: Minsk to Moscow – 8 hours

Estonia: Tallinn to St. Petersburg – 8 hours

Estonia: Tallinn to Moscow – 17 hours

Ukraine: Kiev to Moscow – 12 hours

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

Mongolia: Ulaanbaatar to Moscow – 98 hours

China: Beijing to Moscow – 140 hours

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

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

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

Getting around Russia

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Trans Siberian Railway

There are three main routes:

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

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

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

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

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

Moscow – Napoleon Hostel

St. Petersburg – The Roomers

Lake Baikal – Mini Gostinica near Lake Baikal

Belokurikha – Hotel Berkut

Sochi – Sochi Hotel

Kazan – Mironov’s House

Money in Russia

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

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

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

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

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

Sample costs of items across the country*

The best places to visit in russia.

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

The North-Western district

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

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

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

The Central district

• Sergiev Posad

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

The Volga district

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

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

The Southern district

• Rostov-on-Don
• Novocherkassk

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

The Ural district

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

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

The Siberian district

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

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

The Far-Eastern district

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

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

Food and drink in Russia

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

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

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

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

Best time to visit Russia

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

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

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

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

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

16 money-saving travel tips for backpacking Russia

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

Is Russia Safe to Visit?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended vaccines for Backpacking in Russia

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

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

Russian wildlife

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Books about Travel in Russia

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

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

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

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

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

Check out my other backpacking guides

Backpacking China

Backpacking Hong Kong

Backpacking Kazakhstan

Backpacking the Silk Road

Backpacking the Baltics

Backpacking the Balkans

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

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

Where I am now: Yerevan, Armenia 🇦🇲

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

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

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

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Backpacking  Russia

Not many people know that Russia is a great country to backpack to, but it’s slowly becoming more and more popular. What Russia does best is its incredible nature. Here, you’ll be able to experience a lot of diversity, as there is so much more than just mountainous regions! Russia's nature stretches from large glaciers to steep coasts and picturesque roads winding through hilly landscapes. We hope you enjoy discovering our ideal backpacking route for Russia!

Important Basics

Semi-presidential system

In the south: May to October / In the north: June to August

• Russia has only started considering beer as alcohol in 2013!
• There are 15 secret cities (or maybe even more) in Russia. You can’t get inside of them without a special permit from the state.
• You can get fined for driving a dirty car.

St. Petersburg

Your journey starts in St. Petersburg, which is the northernmost million city in the world.

You will find Cyrillic letters everywhere, but also European architecture. Here, two worlds are united.

The Venice of the North offers art and culture, as well as an active nightlife. In the Catherine Palace, which is located just outside in a suburb, you can find the famous Amber Room. The tour offered there tells you stories of the tsar's family and gives interesting insights. The world-famous Hermitage is a collection of paintings and sculptures, and the Winter Palace is worth a visit. About 70 cats also live there.

St. Petersburg offers more than 300 museums, including a vodka museum. The Resurrection, or Blood Church, has the typical onion domes and is a popular photo motif. The best way is to do a tour with a local, these walker tours are informative, and the people know their city very well. In the end, you’ll only pay as much as you think it was worth. And the best part: the tours are in English. You can also take the bus for different tours. In summer you can do a canal tour. The city offers many possibilities, use as many as you can.

Stay at one of the local hostels and get a bed in a 6-person room for €8 a night.

By night train you can reach the capital Moscow for about 35€. Start at the Red Square, where you will find the Kremlin and the Basilius Cathedral.

The Lenin Mausoleum is located in the immediate vicinity of the Red Square. Lenin died in 1924, was embalmed and can still be visited there today. The entrance is free, but taking pictures is prohibited. Many other museums offer a variety of Russian history, such as the historical museum, which is also on the Red Square, or the Moscow Kremlin Museum.

Come in the evening and look again in the spectacular lighting. On rainy days you can go to the department store GUM, where you can find all the luxury brands of the world, as it is the largest department store in Europe. Here you can also go to the Bolchoi Theatre, which offers ballet and operetta.

Moscow has a lively nightlife, one of the most popular clubs is the Aurora Club or the Golden Girls.

Stay the night in a hostel and get a bed in an 8-person dorm for €8 a night.

Yekaterinburg

Once again, with the night train you can travel from Moscow to Yekaterinburg for about 65€. Ekaterinburg is the fourth largest city in Russia and has everything from traditional to modern in stock. The city is located about 40 km from the border with Europe and Asia. You can easily reach all sights on foot.

In Lenin Alley you will find numerous shops and cafes. Right at the beginning of the avenue is the theater. Further it goes to the city pond, which is a central point. The Mayor's House and the Union House are located directly on the promenade. The Cathedral on the Blood, which has only been there since 2003, was built on the site where the Ipatiev House used to stand. There the tsar's family was held for months and finally executed. In 1977 Yeltsin ordered the demolition of the house. The cathedral now commemorates this last family of tsars.

Many parks allow you to rest between the sights. The city hall is also nice to see and has the so-called onion domes.

You can stay the night at a local hostel and get a bed in a 6-person dorm for €7 a night.

Krasnoyarsk

The night train goes to Krasnoyarsk for about 80€. Krasnoyarsk is famous for its natural and cultural sights, offering a unique scenery with great mountain landscapes and the mighty Siberian forest.

You can hike to the mountain Karulnaja and enjoy a great view. Go to the State Circus, which offers circus performances, music and cultural events. Countless museums such as, for example, the Forest Museum, the Railway Museum, the Museum of History and a Museum of Pharmacy.

But the most visited is the Regional Museum which offers over 400,000 exhibits, including a very interesting archaeological exhibition. Take a trip to the zoo, or to the nearby Stolby Nature Reserve. Also, the Troizki cemetery is interesting, as there are over 200 monuments and wells there.

You can get a bed in an 8-person dorm for €7 a night.

For about 45€ you will take the night train the last time. The gate of Lake Baikal is one of the most beautiful cities in Siberia, where Russian and Mongolian culture meet. Wooden houses stand there together alongside modern buildings.

You can go to Kirov's Park right in the city center; you will find many flowers and fountains there, as well as multiple small stalls that offer refreshments. In winter there is an ice slide and numerous sculptures made of ice. The Church of the Revelation is right next to the park; the first version was made of wood and burned down completely, after which it was rebuilt in stone. Opposite of that is the Spasskaya Church, which is also worth a visit.

The promenade offers a great view over the river Angaria and the city. There is also the triumphal arch of Moscow and a monument of the city founder. Visit the statue of the tourist and find out what he is staring at. You might also like the Statue Park, where you will be able to see countless statues there.

Stay the night at a local hostel and get a bed in a 6-person dorm for €7 a night.

The bus will take you to the island in Lake Baikal for about 11€. The width of the island is only 10 km. The main village is called Chuchir, this is also where most of the 1,700 inhabitants live. From mid-May to mid-December you can get there by ferry. If the lake is frozen, you can take the bus, but you will not find any paved roads there. Many tours are offered directly by hostels.

You can also go on your own. There is the Shaman Rock, which you can find by just walking up the mountain; you’ll get to also enjoy the view of the Lake Baikal. The shamanic poles look great, with the many colorful ribbons. In general, you will be shown a lot of the shamans. So, on some days there is a ceremony that shows you how shamans practice.

In the harbor there is a daily tour with a boat to see the sunset, which takes about 2 hours. You can also travel there, about 1 hour, along Lake Baikal. Or you can take the four-wheel bus, over bumpy roads, to the North Cape, which will give you an unforgettable experience.

You can get a double room in a hotel for €16 a night.

Russia  Route Map

Itinerary and  stops ., total  price ..

Du möchtest 

Deine  eigene, reise erstellen , du möchtest deine, eigene  reise erstellen , dos and don ’ ts , food & drinks, costs..

Blini: the pancakes are often eaten for breakfast. You can fill them as you like, sweet or savory.

Watruschki:  the dumplings are filled with fruit and are often eaten in the morning or with tea.  

Borschtsch:  this soup is a classic in Russia and is characterized above all by its red color. The ingredients include beetroot, cabbage, and beef.

Main courses

Boeuff Stroganoff:  for this, the beef is fried in pieces and served in a delicious cream and mustard sauce. Depending on your taste, you can also choose potatoes or vegetables.

Soljanka:  the Russian stew is a real specialty and consists of either meat or fish and is served with mushrooms and cucumbers. Solyanka is characterized by its sour taste.

Salad Olivier:   it is also called the Russian potato salad. Tastes delicious!

Pelmeni:   the dumplings are often called the national dish of the country and you can choose the filling according to your taste. It is served with a cream dip.

Caviar:  Caviar is very popular in Russia and is often served with Oladji. These are small pancakes and a cream dip. But it’s worth a try!

Drinks & Snacks

Mors: this is a juice from the cranberry, which is often compared to cranberry. The ideal refreshment in summer!

Tschai: this is the Russian tea and a real favorite. The Russians like their tea very strong and it is drunk several times a day.

Cost of living

• Lunch at a restaurant in the business district: 896 RUB = €10.41
• Meal at a fast-food restaurant: 300 RUB = €3.48
• Average dinner for two at a local restaurant: 1,000 RUB = €11.62
• Cappuccino in a tourist area: 123.98 RUB = €1.44
• 2 movie tickets: 600 RUB = €6.97
• 0.5 liter of local beer at the supermarket: 60.74 RUB = €0.71
• Marlboro cigarettes (20 pack): 150 RUB = €1.74
• 1 glass of beer at a local bar: 100 RUB = €1.16

Personal Hygiene

• Normal haircut for men in a tourist area: 1,454 RUB = €16.9
• Shampoo: 256.53 RUB = €2.98
• Deodorant: 149.79 RUB = €1.74

Light handshake: especially women in Russia give themselves a light handshake, even the men. This shows respect and is a form of friendly greeting.

Punctuality: in Russia, punctuality is very important, it is best to arrive a little early, this makes a good impression.

Compliments: in Russia, a compliment is an important gesture, which you can always use towards hosts or friends.

Formalities: Keep to the law because it is very important in Russia.

Expect a smile: in Russia often only friends or acquaintances are given a smile. So don't be disappointed because it never goes against you personally.

Reservedness: Russians have a very direct culture and also in dealing with each other they are usually very direct and ask direct questions. Just be open here and get involved.

Prejudices: yes, Russia does not have the best reputation among many. But don't let that stop you, just get a picture of the country for yourself.

Visa , Visa, Passport & Vaccinations

Temporary passport

National id.

Temporary national ID

Child’s pass.

Robert Koch Instituts

Additional Remarks .

Travel documents must be valid for six months beyond the date of departure, however, passports that are almost expired (but still valid for 3 months) can sometimes be accepted. Please also inform yourself on the current entry regulations regarding the Corona virus. Current information about this can be found at your country’s Foreign Office.

The team at Backpacker Trail wishes you lots of fun and an unforgettable trip!

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Pullman-Moscow airport opens new terminal with updated features and more space

P ULLMAN, WA - After months of coordination and construction the new terminal at the Pullman-Moscow Regional Airport is officially open.

" This is fabulous, this is beyond belief, we waited for so many years for this," Moscow Mayor Art Bettge said.

On Tuesday night after the final plane left the old terminal, TSA and other airport employees moved everything to the new terminal just in time for yesterday’s 5am flight.

Officially marking the inauguration of the new terminal.

It has a new runway, extra parking spaces, rental car accessibility, jet bridges, PA system and so much more. However, one of the big differences, everything is now in one space.

" Your jet bridge, you don't have to go outside to get on the plane. Your baggage carousel is inside. so, you basically get off the plane, through this exit from security pick up your bags and staring out the door, it really makes flying even more enjoyable," Pullman Mayor Francis Benjamin said.

This new terminal was designed to handle possible future expansion.

As the airport grows a second TSA line can be added. There is space for another airline check-in counter as well as adding a third jet bridge.

Moscow Mayor Art Bettge says this new terminal will allow Pullman and Moscow to be better connected to the rest of the world.

" It will make it easier for athletic teams to come in and out. It makes it easier for students to go in and out. Faculty can get to conferences both domestically and internationally through connections so much more easily," Mayor Bettge said.

As for the old terminal, both mayors hope to turn it into a space that could be used for cargo, but it will need to comply with the FAA’s aviation guidelines.

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Kikerike Folding Stool Backpack Insulated Cooler Bag, Collapsible Camping Hunting Fishing Multifunction Chair with Front Pocket and Bottle Pocket for Outdoor Events, Hiking, Travel, Beach

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About this item.

• 【Portable Design】It can be folded totally when not in use and easy to carry. It folds up nicely to travel, pack, and store in the trunk of your car to take with you everywhere you need it. Professional and perfect equipment for camping, hiking, hunting, climbing, fishing, picnic and other outdoor activities.
• 【Multi-purpose 3 in 1】Backpack, insulated cooler bag and chair. The Backpack has lightweight seat, breathable straps with wide shoulders for greater comfort. Ergonomic design also provides extra stability comfortable. Backpack cooler stool after folding, compact, easy to carry and storage.
• 【Backpack Chair Size】Chair Size: 16.77 inch x 13.85 inch x 10.53 inch. Folding Size: 19.11 inch x 13.85 inch. It weighs about 3 pounds, the maximum load of 330 pounds.
• 【High-quality and Durability】Large seat surface adopts double PVC coated with oxford cloth, water resistant, breathable, durable and comfortable for sitting. Reinforced steel tube bracket design, fixed with rivet, it has the strong bearing capacity.
• 【Adequate Storage】The stylish folding backpack chair offers ample storage space with lots of pockets. 2 Outer pockets is suitable to storage tea cup, water bottle, mobile phone and other belongings.
• 【Ideal Outdoor Gifts for Men】If he is a outdoor enthusiasts who likes fishing, hunting, camping, hiking, this folding stool backpack will be perfect as a gift for him on Christmas, Father's Day or any other important holidays!

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Product Description

Specifications:

• Color: Camouflage
• Material: Oxford Fabric & Steel
• Folding Size: 19.5 x 14 x 1.2 inch
• Display Size: 14.56 x 11.41 x 16.53 inch
• Notes: Please allow 1-3mm differs due to manual measurement.

Folding Stool Backpack Insulated Cooler Bag

The design of this backpack should be derived from that we hope wherever you go ,you'll always have a seat for rest and cool drinks available. It can be folded totally when not in use and easy to carry.

Professional and perfect equipment for camping, hiking, hunting, climbing, fishing, picnic and other outdoor activities.

• Multifunctional pockets, suitable to storage belongings
• Large backpack strap design, wide straps for greater comfort
• Portable design, easy to carry
• "X" structural design, make sure stable and not to shake

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We will turn your pursuit of life into reality, please look forward to Kikerike.

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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.

Customers say

Customers like the quality, portability, and versatility of the stool seating. For example, they mention it's super functional, lightweight, and perfect for local day fishing trips, hunting, and touring. They're also happy with performance, insulation, and appearance. That said, opinions are mixed on size, and comfort.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers like the quality of the stool seating. They say it's super functional, well made, and works as intended. Some mention that the holder are very handy and the overall construction substantial. They also say it works great for dog shows, impromptu outdoor gatherings, and sea world and hiking.

"...Also works nice for impromptu outdoor gatherings at friends houses. Got myself a seat no matter where I go...." Read more

"That it works and comfy" Read more

"...The chair is great and sturdy though. Used this yesterday when I went fishing and the only con I experienced was the cooler leaking on me...." Read more

"This cooler bag is nice and sturdy . It's stiff enough that if I sit on it I don't feel like I'm going to fall or it's going to break...." Read more

Customers find the stool seating easy to carry on their backs. They say it's lightweight and can fit in a carry-on suitcase. Some customers also mention that it'll fit in their car for impromptu events or to visit the park or beach.

"...Feel light, not at all heavy . Good detail...." Read more

"...This is lightweight for him to carry on his back with a nice little cooler bag for an ice pack and couple of bottles of water and is very..." Read more

"Perfect size for backpack. Lightweight with a cooler inside . Also nice place to sit." Read more

"...It's so lightweight and holds everything I need to bring with me. Perfect height...." Read more

Customers find the stool seating versatile. They say it's perfect for local day fishing trips, hunting, and touring. Some mention that it'll be great for cornhole events, theme parks, and hikers/campers.

"... Great for sports from the sidelines or fence ( dug out for me). My niece wants it for camping and fishing...." Read more

"...Overall, an excellent product and would be perfect for hikers/campers ." Read more

"The perfect trio for amusement parks , exploring, and recess duty!!" Read more

"This lightweight seat/cooler is perfect for large music festivals . You can carry a few drinks/ice and can sit down for a quick rest in between shows!" Read more

Customers are satisfied with the performance of the stool. They mention that it is very convenient, sturdy, and makes their time easier. They appreciate the multifunctionality, versatility, and portability. Some say it is a perfect grab-and-go chair.

"...This is so much more convenient . It has space to hold our water, snacks and things bought but also provides a great place to rest...." Read more

"...They can be personalized and it sold me, so I bought it right away. I got mine in today!..." Read more

"...I was also looking for something lightweight, versatile and yet large enough to carry my laptop. This bag does it ALL! The cooler is a bonus!..." Read more

"...A very convenient item ." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the insulation of the product. They mention that it keeps everything cold for the day, keeps ice frozen and unmelted, and is ideal for eating cooled lunch while sitting above ground in long convention waiting.

"...The pack is really handy for holding cold or warm food and keeping it that way...." Read more

"...Held all our essentials and kept things cool . Best backpack ever!" Read more

"Makes a great chair and keeps my drinks cool ." Read more

"...Great chair and bag. Insulation kept drink bottle cold . Just load up the bag and wear it as a backpack!" Read more

Customers are satisfied with the appearance of the stool. They mention it's very nice, has a great design, and is durable. Some say it makes a good chair and keeps drinks cool.

"This is a good design , I've used it once, doesn't seem like there's too much pressure put on the zipper...." Read more

" very nice back pack ." Read more

" Makes a great chair and keeps my drinks cool." Read more

Customers are mixed about the size of the stool. Some mention that it's lightweight and holds everything they need to bring with them, while others say that it is too small for anyone who is greater. The pack section is small, and the seat is small for an adult.

"...the reflective strip, the spacious cooler , the zip pocket, water bottle holder, and the fact that the frame is..." Read more

"... Not fitting a 12 pack of beer in this cooler But that's okay to go 12u softball tournaments...." Read more

"...This is so much more convenient. It has space to hold our water , snacks and things bought but also provides a great place to rest...." Read more

Customers are mixed about the comfort of the stool seating. Some mention it's convenient and comfortable to sit on, with adjustable straps. It's also a good seat for tired bodies, and it fits nicely on the back of kayaks. However, some customers say the straps are short and not at all comfortable, and the seat is hard to sit down at first.

"...the variety of colors, the generous shoulder straps, the fairly comfortable bench seat (really quite nice for something that is part of a bag), the..." Read more

"...for an ice pack and couple of bottles of water and is very comfortable for him to sit on ....he is 6 ft 190 lbs" Read more

"...Better as a foot rest. I'm 5'3 and 130lbs and was not comfy sitting on it . Seemed structurally sound though and looked nice." Read more

"Perfect size for backpack. Lightweight with a cooler inside. Also nice place to sit ." Read more

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The 9 best cooler bags of 2024.

Carry your beverages and picnic to the beach in cool styles.

The Best Cooler Bags

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Keeping snacks and drinks cold when you're on a road trip, at the beach or car camping is essential. Depending on what you want to pack, where you're going to be and how much you need to take, there are different cooler bags to meet your needs.

The right cooler bag can save you money, keep the kids happy with fresh snacks and offer convenience. U.S. News researched online retailers, travel industry review sites and more to come up with this selection of the best cooler bags.

Best Overall: ICEMULE Classic Medium 15L

• Jump to features and traveler insights ↓

Best for Beach: Alameda Mesh Tote Beach Bag

Best insulation: arctic zone titan deep freeze cooler, best small: igloo retro square lunch bag, best wheeled: coleman chiller 42-can soft cooler with wheels, best backpack: everlasting comfort beach cooler backpack, best collapsible: clevermade tahoe collapsible cooler bag, best tote: creative green life jumbo insulated cooler bag, best durable: yeti hopper flip 18 soft cooler.

(Note: Prices and availability were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to demand or other factors.)

Courtesy of ICEMULE

Capacity: Up to 16 cans with ice or 24 cans with no ice

What sets it apart: This soft-sided cooler from ICEMULE is rugged, versatile, waterproof and collapsible. It's perfect for the beach, river, lake or pool since it floats. The compressible zipperless design makes it easy to pack for travel. You can sling it over your shoulder to leave your hands free to carry your beach or camping gear. Your food and drinks will stay cold for up to 24 hours with this cooler. The ICEMULE Classic comes in three other sizes and a range of bright colors.

Travelers appreciate: Many reviewers comment that the bag is lightweight and compact, making it easy to transport.

Price: $84.95 or less

Courtesy of Alameda

Capacity: Up to 12 cans

What sets it apart: This two-in-one cooler bag by Alameda is perfect for the beach. It has a detachable insulated cooler section on the bottom to keep things cold and a mesh section on top that's perfect for towels, sunscreen and more. The mesh is made from environmentally friendly and sand-resistant nylon. This bag features six pockets and a zipper closure on top to keep items secure.

Travelers appreciate: Beachgoers praise this bag for keeping items cold and keeping sand out.

Price: $34 or less

Courtesy of Arctic Zone

Capacity: Size options range from 9 to 48 cans

What sets it apart: This totable hard-body cooler bag includes a SmartShelf to keep crushable items on top. It keeps beverages and snacks cold with Deep Freeze Performance Insulation and has a zipperless top that flips open so you can access items quickly and easily. The bag is easy to keep clean since the exterior is made from water- and stain-repellent material and the interior hard liner is removable.

Travelers appreciate: This Amazon's Choice product has a 4.6-star rating from more than 48,000 ratings. Product owners appreciate the zipperless lid since zippers can break, as well as the removable liner that is easy to clean.

Price: $62.99 or less for 30-can size

Courtesy of Igloo

Capacity: Up to 9 cans

What sets it apart: This cute, colorful and compact cooler is perfect for taking lunch or drinks on outings. It has a front zippered pocket to hold things like keys, a phone or sunscreen, as well as a lightweight insulated liner to keep snacks and drinks cold. The top handle and shoulder strap make it easily portable. This small cooler bag comes in a retro neon color combination or Care Bears design.

Travelers appreciate: The nostalgic Care Bears print is a hit with recent reviewers, as well as the fact that it's easy to wipe clean.

Price: $29.99 or less

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Courtesy of Coleman

Capacity: Up to 42 cans

What sets it apart: With durable wheels and a telescopic handle, this Coleman cooler can easily travel to and from your destination. It features leak-resistant welded seams, front and inside pockets for additional storage, and a hard plastic liner that can be removed for easy cleaning. Your goodies can stay cold for up to 12 or more hours, thanks to the TempLock insulation. This cooler is also eco-friendly with recycled exterior fabric. Coleman also has options in smaller sizes that don't have wheels, as well as a backpack style.

Travelers appreciate: Reviewers say it keeps items cold for many hours and the wheels are convenient, though some caution that the wheels don't do as well on sand or rough terrain.

Price: $64.99 or less

Courtesy of Everlasting Comfort

Capacity: Up to 54 cans and 4 pounds of ice

What sets it apart: For an easy-to-carry cooler with lots of room, this backpack cooler from Everlasting is a great option. Made from PVA and insulated foam, this bag will keep your food hot or cold for up to 24 hours. Stash napkins and utensils in the front zippered pocket and wine or water bottles in the side pockets. It features a leakproof design and heavy-duty bottom, plus padded, adjustable straps.

Travelers appreciate: The spacious storage and leakproof material were favorite features of customers.

Price: $49.99 or less

Courtesy of CleverMade

Capacity: Size options range from 24 to 50 cans

What sets it apart: Not only is this CleverMade cooler collapsible, but it also has top handles and shoulder straps for easy carrying. Its solid, sturdy base is designed to hold up to between 30 and 55 pounds (depending on the cooler size). It is made from recycled polyester with a durable wire frame. This cooler is lightweight and stores easily since it folds down.

Travelers appreciate: The features that reviewers praise the most are its anti-leak material, effectiveness at keeping things cool and collapsibility.

Price: $39.99 or less for 30-can size

Courtesy of Creative Green Life

Capacity: Up to 30 cans

What sets it apart: For a tote bag that keeps things cool, this bag by Creative Green Life fits the bill. Its extra-large capacity with zipper-close top and shoulder handles make it easy to bring plenty of snacks and drinks for your outing. It has a leak-resistant liner and machine-washable, stain-resistant fabric. The handles can be adjusted to carry food either horizontally or vertically. With the thermal foam insulation, your food can stay hot or cold for eight or more hours.

Travelers appreciate: Customers love that this bag keeps food consistently cold and is easy to store, making it great for the beach, the park or grocery shopping.

Price: $34.99 or less

Courtesy of YETI

Capacity: Up to 16 cans with ice or 30 cans with no ice

What sets it apart: The material of this sturdy YETI cooler is designed to protect the bag from punctures, UV rays, and mildew both inside and out. This rugged cooler is ready for any adventure with a high-performance zipper, a leakproof construction and closed-cell rubber foam insulation. If you want a smaller cooler than the 18, the cooler comes in sizes 8 and 12 as well. A Rambler Bottle Sling can be attached using the Hitchpoint Grid system. For keeping things on ice for one person, YETI also makes a lunch box and lunch bag .

Travelers appreciate: Shoppers who purchased this cooler bag recently appreciated the quality and size of the cooler, noting that the ice did not melt for hours. Some felt the zipper was difficult to open and close.

Price: $300 or less

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. To ensure the contents of your cooler bag are kept properly cold, here are some tips for how to effectively use ice:

• Add the right type of ice: YETI suggests using a combination of block ice and cubed ice, since block ice melts more slowly and cubed ice cools items faster. YETI also makes a YETI ICE hard ice pack for even cooler temps.
• Layer the ice correctly: The ideal way to fill your cooler is to put ice on the bottom and the top with your food and drinks in between (as this Arctic Zone video demonstrates).
• Use the right amount of ice: Be sure not to overfill your cooler with ice, as the lid must be able to close tightly. The amount of ice compared to cooler contents may depend on your cooler and what works for you: Arctic Zone recommends a 50-50 ratio of ice and food, for example, while YETI suggests filling two-thirds of your cooler with ice.

In addition to getting the ice right, there are some other ways you can optimize your cooler's performance.

• Pre-chill the cooler bag: Starting with a cool bag is a great trick. The Igloo website recommends pre-chilling your bag overnight with a bag of ice inside to maximize ice retention.
• Add cold drinks: Adding drinks that are already cold will help with ice retention, according to ICEMULE. Frozen water bottles are a great option too.
• Keep the lid closed: Be sure to keep the lid shut (and locked, if that's an option) to keep the cold air in.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Sharael Kolberg is a U.S. News & World Report contributor with a wealth of knowledge when it comes to cooler bags. She often uses a cooler bag for road trips, hikes and days at the beach. Kolberg used her experience as a frequent traveler and research expertise to curate this list of top cooler bags.

You might also be interested in:

• Beach Packing List: Essentials to Bring
• The Best Beach Bags
• The Best Beach Wagons
• The Ultimate Camping Checklist
• Road Trip Essentials

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Tags: Travel , Travel Gear

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