backpack travel outfits

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

• Travel Products
• Luggage + Bags
• Backpacks, Totes + Small Bags

The 14 Most Stylish Travel Backpacks of 2024

If fashionable and practical is what you’re after, we’ve got you covered with these bags.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Tips for Buying

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

We’ve all seen them before: those seemingly ethereal frequent flyers that move through the airport without a slick of anxiety or dishevelment. You’d never know they’re racing to get to their gate on time or have been traveling for the past 24 hours. While we haven’t figured out exactly how to look (or feel) that composed while on the go, we do find that a reliable, fashion-forward travel backpack makes a big difference in our ability to move through the airport with ease (and sometimes even grace).

Travel backpacks hold just as much as a large tote bag or crossbody duffel, but it’s so much more comfortable to sling a backpack onto your back than it is to lug around a heavy duffel. Backpacks also, of course, allow you to go hands-free while staying organized and comfy while on the go.

If you’ve been thinking about upgrading to a travel backpack but want something that’s both stylish and practical, we’ve got you covered. The following backpacks include picks we personally tested and rated highly, as well as others we found through additional research.

Best Overall

Everlane renew transit backpack.

• Design 4.6 /5
• Capacity 4.2 /5
• Durability 4 /5
• Comfort 4.6 /5

This option holds a lot of gear but doesn’t look bulky.

The magnetic closure can come undone when picking up and putting on the bag.

There’s a lot to love about Everlane’s The ReNew Transit Backpack. During the testing process, we found that it can hold a ton of gear but even when stuffed full, it doesn’t look bulky. The recycled polyester material is made from post-consumer plastic, which is awesome if you’re looking for something sustainable, but it’s also highly water-resistant and durable so you won’t have to worry about your laptop or other gear getting wet if you’re caught in the rain while traveling. It also features a handful of great organizational add-ons including two water bottle pockets, an exterior laptop sleeve, zippered pockets, and even a luggage sleeve on the back that’ll allow you to attach it to your rolling luggage as needed. The only thing we didn’t love was that this backpack uses a series of hidden magnets to close the top part of the bag; this gives the bag its elegant shape but it also can easily come undone when you’re lifting the bag by the top handle. It’s not a big deal as inner zippers are keeping your gear in place but you’ll have to adjust the magnetic closure before slinging it onto your back.

The Details: 17.5 x 7.25 x 12 inches | 27 liters | Recycled polyester

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Best Roll-top

Mifland rucksack.

This durable leather roll-top bag will only get better with age.

The material makes it a bit heavy compared to other options.

Sometimes you need a little extra space to squeeze in those last-minute souvenirs — and that’s why a roll-top bag is a must-have. The Mifland Rolltop Rucksack allows you to adjust the size of your bag based on how much gear you need to squeeze in it, and it expands up to four inches larger than its standard size as needed. We also really like that this bag is made from a high-quality leather material that feels incredibly durable — it looks and feels like it can last for years, even with heavy use. Note that this bag is available in a whole lineup of different colorways and designs which allows you to select something that’ll match the rest of your luggage or style preferences. The most important thing to note about this roll-top backpack is that, while the leather is incredibly durable and long-lasting, it’s pretty heavy compared to other bags on our list, so it might not be the best option if you prefer to travel as lightweight as possible.

The Details: 16-22 x 12 x 6 inches | Leather

Best Organization

Mz wallace metro utility backpack.

Its abundance of inside and outside zippered pockets makes it easy to store documents and in-flight essentials.

The straps are a bit long — even when shortened.

The MZ Wallace Black Metro Utility Backpack is going to be your best bet if you want something that’ll ensure all your documents and gear stay organized rather than pooling at the bottom of your bag. It’s crafted with recycled nylon and sustainably sourced leather and includes an abundance of pockets and pouches on the interior and exterior of the bag so you’ll have a designated spot for every item (from your passport to your water bottle). We also really like that this bag has a generously sized top handle, in addition to the regular backpack straps, which allows you to carry it as a duffel bag as needed. The only thing to keep in mind is that the straps are a bit long (even when shortened) and might not fit very well on more petite travelers.

The Details: 12.20 x 5.50 x 16.50 inches | Nylon, leather

Best Waterproof

Caraa stratus large backpack.

This option is lightweight and highly durable.

It’s a bit large and can look oversized on more petite travelers.

The Caraa Stratus Large bag is sort of a wunderkind; it’s stunning and highly stylish while also being relatively budget-friendly. The nylon material is incredibly lightweight so you can stuff it with gear without feeling weighed down too much. The best part? It’s totally waterproof without, you know, looking totally waterproof. This bag can easily function as a carry-on at the airport but the fashion-forward aesthetic means you can wear it in the city as well. We also love that it has a total of twelve pockets to help you stay organized while on the go and even includes space for a 17-inch laptop. We really like the capacity but, of course, it means this bag is a bit bulky compared to other travel backpacks. Keep in mind that it might look a bit oversized on people who have smaller frames.

The Details: 18 x 12 x 7.5 inches | 26 liters | Nylon

Best Anti-theft

Pacsafe anti-theft backpack.

This bag offers peace of mind but doesn’t sacrifice style.

There is no designated laptop pocket.

The Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45 Anti-theft Carry-on Travel Backpack was made for travelers hopping from hostel to hostel or those in need of something reliable to offer peace of mind. We really like this option because it doesn’t look like one of those glaringly obvious anti-theft numbers of yesteryear. During the testing process, we found that this bag is truly difficult to cut with a knife — but if you do run into a situation like this, the knife marks will probably show on your bag (still, it beats having your gear stolen and your bag ruined). We also really like that this bag is super lightweight and doesn’t feel heavy even when it’s packed with gear. Keep in mind that although it’s excellent at preventing theft, this bag falls short when it comes to organization. There are very few pouches and there’s no designated laptop pocket at all.

The Details: 21.65 x 13.78 x 8.66 inches | 45 liters | Lightweight steel mesh

Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph

Best Foldable

Paravel fold-up backpack.

Bloomingdale's

This bag offers a clever design at a budget-friendly price point.

There isn’t much structure so heavy items may distend the bottom of the bag.

Here’s a not-so-secret travel hack to keep in mind: no matter how light you think you pack, always bring a folding bag with you. You never know when you’ll need the extra space for souvenirs or clothing that won’t fit into your compression cubes the night before your flight home. The Paravel Fold-up Backpack is our favorite folding option that we’ve tested. It packs down to 6 x 6.5 x 2.5 inches, but when unfolded, turns into a full-sized (and surprisingly chic-looking) travel backpack that can function as a regular carry-on or emergency bonus bag. It’s super lightweight and comfortable to wear and can hold a surprising amount of stuff without looking bulky. We brought it to the beach and it easily held a Kindle, a huge beach towel, a 20-ounce water bottle, and day-to-day essentials. However, because it doesn’t have a ton of structure, when you pack heavier items like a laptop, they protrude at the bottom of the bag (although this doesn’t affect comfort).

The Details: 13 x 16 x 9 inches | 8 liters | Nylon

Dagne Dover Small Dakota Neoprene Backpack

Dagne Dover

Despite the small size, it offers ample pockets and pouches that make it easy to stay organized.

The material isn’t the most sophisticated.

Looking for a durable backpack that holds the essentials without totally replacing your carry-on? This miniature bag by Dagne Dover was designed — like many of the brand's best bags — with optimal storage and thoughtfully designed pockets and pouches so you can stay organized without requiring a full-sized backpack. We love that it’s lightweight and durable; it’s designed to last a lifetime and during the testing process we definitely noticed how high-quality the material looks and feels. However, depending on your preferences, neoprene may not feel as sophisticated as, say, leather or canvas if wearing it in a more professional setting. You’ll also want to note that this bag is available in a variety of sizes (small, medium , and large ) if you like the style but require more space in your backpack.

The Details: 9.5 x 5 x 13 inches | 8 liters | Neoprene

Travel + Leisure / Tamara Staples

Best Carry-on Replacement

Cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack.

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

This clever option was designed to mimic a suitcase.

The bag is unstructured and requires strategic packing to fill it out.

Replacing carry-on luggage with a backpack isn’t exactly the most fruitful task; it usually ends up meaning that you have to unpack your entire backpack to access your clothing and essentials once you arrive at your destination. The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack changes all that for the better and makes it easy for just about anyone to travel light thanks to the clever zip-around design that mimics a rolling suitcase. We loved this design during the testing process and found it was incredibly practical both while at the hotel and while at the airport as well. You can easily see everything you’ve packed (like a suitcase) and don’t have to totally unpack just to grab a fresh pair of socks or to dig out your toiletries. Keep in mind that this bag is made of lightweight polyester and as such it’s relatively unstructured. This means you have to be strategic when you pack so the bag doesn’t end up looking lumpy.

The Details: 20 x 12 x 8 inches | 35 liters | Polyester

Best Customizable

Stoney clover classic backpack.

Stoney Clover

There are a ton of colors and additional patches to truly make this your own.

It might be too small for some travelers' needs.

There’s something particularly sophisticated about a bespoke piece of luggage — whether it’s a monogrammed passport holder or customized backpack. The Stoney Clover Lane Classic Backpack is our top pick if you’re looking for the latter. It’s available in a whole spectrum of beautiful colors that range from classic black and navy to more fun hues like flamingo pink and banana yellow. Stoney Clover also allows you to buy additional patches to further customize your backpack. Patches include letters and numbers if you’re looking to monogram — but also include cheeky embroideries like emojis and seasonal characters. It’s also worth noting that this bag is made from durable and lightweight nylon so it’s just as comfortable as it is cute. The only downside is that this bag is only available in one size and it might be too small if you want something to hold bigger electronics.

The Details: 6.25 x 13.5 x 5.25 inches | Nylon

Best Leather

Cuyana leather backpack.

Stylish yet timeless; this bag will be fashionable for decades.

It doesn't zip closed so it's not the most secure for crowded areas.

You can think of the Cuyana Leather Backpack as the backpack for those who don’t wear backpacks. It’s designed in a cool and unexpected silhouette that looks much more like a sophisticated European boutique find than a travel backpack. It’s also available in both 13- and 16-inch sizes which is great for those who tend to pack a little extra or like the additional space for those last-minute souvenir purchases. The elegant leather design is supple but still very durable and we love that it includes both regular backpack straps and a long top handle. It’s a bit expensive compared to other leather backpacks but the sophisticated style and durable design make it worth it in our books.

The Details: 13.3 x 9.6 x 7.2 inches (13-inch); 15.1 x 11 x 7 inches (16-inch) | Leather

Lo & Sons Backpack

Lo & Sons

This option is not bulky but can fit a lot without looking lumpy.

The material doesn’t feel durable enough for rugged travel.

The Beacon by Lo & Sons is both stylish and practical — and we found that despite its slim design, it actually held a lot of gear without looking lumpy or bulky. It’s crafted from an elegant leather material and a thick gold zipper that looks and feels a lot more expensive than it is. We also loved the number of pockets and pouches (including an interior water bottle pouch and even an exterior pouch that fits a smartphone). During the testing process, we noticed that this bag can hold up against inclement weather quite well but it didn’t feel durable enough to purposefully expose the bag to the elements or take it on more rugged trips. That said, if you tend to favor city-focused travel, this bag is more than enough to withstand the rigor of light rain or being thrown under the seat on the airplane.

The Details: 10.5 x 14 x 4.5 inches | 10.8 liters | Leather

Best Convertible

Senreve maestra bag.

Neiman Marcus

This multi-purpose option doubles as a crossbody.

It’s on the pricey side compared to similar leather backpacks.

Some people just don’t want or need a full-time backpack — and that’s where the Senreve Maestra comes in. This stunning leather bag features convertible straps that can be positioned like a backpack or used like a crossbody bag as well as a satchel and even a tote bag, giving you plenty of options depending on your itinerary or particular preferences. It’s available in a ton of beautiful colorways and textures like pebbled leather and textured dragon leather . It’s also available in a smaller midi option that’s just as versatile but better suited for those who travel light. We love that despite its elegant aesthetic, this option is actually scratch- and water-resistant so it can withstand heavy travel. It can also fit up to a 15-inch laptop while the midi fits an 11-inch laptop. It is a little pricey compared to other options, but it’s technically four bags in one when you think about it.

The Details: 12.25 x 10.25 x 6.75 inches | Leather

Best Drawstring

Nike brasilia training gymsack.

It’s lightweight and offers excellent value without sacrificing style.

You cannot adjust the strap length.

Looking for a casual drawstring bag that won’t weigh you down while on the go? The Nike Brasilia is no-frills and ultra lightweight yet still stylish and cool. It works just as well as an impromptu travel bag as it does a gym bag which makes it a great option for those who like to work out while traveling. The drawstring backpack is simple with one classic Nike “swoosh” in the middle — which makes it ideal for pairing with athleisure as well as casual city clothing. It’s available in five cool colorways and features convenient side pockets for storing your smaller items like your hotel keycard and credit cards. The only thing we don’t love about this option is that you can’t adjust the strap length, but that’s a common drawback when it comes to drawstring bags.

The Details: 18 liters | Polyester

Best Tech-enabled

Bee & kin the midi nomad backpack.

Bee & Kin

• Design 4.5 /5
• Comfort 4.5 /5
• Durability 4.8 /5
• Value 4.8 /5

This elegant backpack makes charging on the go easy.

The straps don’t have very much padding.

The Bee & Kin Midi Nomad Backpack is designed with digital nomads in mind; it’s basically a contemporary briefcase disguised as a stylish backpack. It’s built with space for a wireless charging pack ( sold separately ) that allows you to charge up your phone while it’s packed away in your backpack. It also has a padded interior pouch designed to keep your laptop from moving around while in transit and can comfortably fit laptops up to 13 inches. During the testing process, we noticed that the backpack is surprisingly lightweight despite the fact that it’s made of leather and we really liked the compact size (although there’s also a larger size for those with more gear to carry or a larger laptop). Keep in mind that the straps are not very well-padded, though this shouldn’t be an issue as long as you’re not packing the bag too heavily.

The Details: 11.6 x 5.5 x 13 inches | Leather

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Tips for Buying a Stylish Travel Backpack

Consider your personal style.

It doesn’t matter how functional or well-priced a backpack is, you should only buy something that’ll suit your personal style or you’ll run the risk of not using it as frequently as you otherwise would. Be sure to choose a bag that fits with the rest of your wardrobe — something you’ll feel comfortable and proud using in the airport and trekking through city streets around the world.

Prioritize functional features

You’ll also want to make sure you prioritize functional features that’ll make your travel days easier. Opt for a backpack that has enough pockets to keep things like your passport, travel documents, and phone organized. It’s also worth considering looking for a padded laptop pouch if you tend to bring your laptop or tablet with you while traveling. Add-ons like an interior water bottle pouch or exterior zippered pockets will also make streamlining and organizing your travel gear easier.

There are a few materials that make good contenders for a backpack. You’ll want something durable and lightweight, which is why leather, nylon, and polyester are great options. Keep in mind that leather is highly durable and long-lasting but can be a bit on the heavy side. Nylon and polyester, on the other hand, tend to be weather-resistant and very lightweight but can sometimes lack structure.

The best-sized backpack for travel really depends on how you plan on using your backpack on the ground. Do you anticipate using it as a replacement carry-on? If so, you’ll want something large enough to fit a couple of outfits with additional space for things like your laptop and in-flight essentials. If you plan on using it as a personal item, you’ll have to opt for something smaller. Most airlines accept a maximum size of 18 x 14 x 8 inches for a personal item whereas a carry-on item is closer to 22 x 14 x 9 inches.

You can absolutely bring a backpack and a purse on the plane as your carry-on and personal item. If you plan on bringing a wheeled carry-on and want to bring a backpack and purse as well, you’ll have to make sure your purse can fit inside of one of your other bags just in case you run into any issues while boarding the plane, as you’re technically only allowed two items.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this article, T+L contributor Kaitlyn McInnis used her experience as a travel writer and former lifestyle editor to curate a list of the best and most stylish travel backpacks for trips and travelers of all types.

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.

Related Articles

Advertisement

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

You save $50 (25%)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Flaws but not dealbreakers

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

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

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L

Combines more organization with a simple interior.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Osprey Farpoint 40

For long distances on foot.

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

Osprey Fairview 40

For long distances and smaller torsos.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L

A suitcase to carry on your back.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

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

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

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

Meet your guide

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

Further reading

The Best Travel Backpack

by Geoffrey Morrison

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

Wirecutter’s Favorite Bags, Totes, Backpacks and Carryalls

by Truth Headlam

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

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

by Kit Dillon

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

The Best Laptop Backpacks

by Zoe Vanderweide

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

Every product is independently selected by (obsessive) editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.

Best in Class

• The Very Best-Smelling Candles The Very Best-Smelling Candles
• The 13 Very Best Pillows for Neck Pain The 13 Very Best Pillows for Neck Pain
• The 6 Very Best Food Vacuum Sealers The 6 Very Best Food Vacuum Sealers
• The 7 Very Best Box Springs The 7 Very Best Box Springs
• The 8 Very Best Hair Towels The 8 Very Best Hair Towels
• The 6 Very Best Double Strollers The 6 Very Best Double Strollers
• The Very Best Soda-Makers The Very Best Soda-Makers
• The 7 Very Best Air Mattresses The 7 Very Best Air Mattresses
• The 8 Very Best Shampoos for Fine Hair The 8 Very Best Shampoos for Fine Hair
• The 8 Best Carry-On Backpacks The 8 Best Carry-On Backpacks
• The 10 Very Best Mattress Protectors The 10 Very Best Mattress Protectors
• 13 of the Very Best Air Fryers 13 of the Very Best Air Fryers
• The 9 Very Best Beard Trimmers The 9 Very Best Beard Trimmers
• The 15 Very Best Bedside Lights The 15 Very Best Bedside Lights
• The 8 Very Best Shaving Creams The 8 Very Best Shaving Creams
• The 13 Very Best Moisturizers for Dry Skin The 13 Very Best Moisturizers for Dry Sk…
• The 9 Very Best Beach Towels The 9 Very Best Beach Towels
• The 9 Very Best Weighted Blankets The 9 Very Best Weighted Blankets
• 13 of the Very Best Drinking Glasses 13 of the Very Best Drinking Glasses
• The 7 Very Best Clothing Irons The 7 Very Best Clothing Irons
• 14 Very Best Black T-shirts for Men 14 Very Best Black T-shirts for Men
• The 17 Very Best Foundations for Mature Skin The 17 Very Best Foundations for Mature…
• The 9 Very Best Toasters The 9 Very Best Toasters
• The 7 Very Best Water Flossers The 7 Very Best Water Flossers
• The Very Best Carry-on Luggage The Very Best Carry-on Luggage
• The 12 Very Best Glider Rockers for Nursing The 12 Very Best Glider Rockers for Nurs…
• The 8 Very Best Hair Dryers The 8 Very Best Hair Dryers
• The 6 Very Best Gas Grills The 6 Very Best Gas Grills
• 15 of the Very Best Chef’s Knives 15 of the Very Best Chef’s Knives
• The 5 Very Best Hands-Free Pumping Bras The 5 Very Best Hands-Free Pumping Bras
• The Very Best Gym Shorts for Men The Very Best Gym Shorts for Men
• The 6 Very Best Portable Grills The 6 Very Best Portable Grills
• The 13 Very Best Food-Storage Containers The 13 Very Best Food-Storage Containers
• The 12 Very Best Dry Shampoos The 12 Very Best Dry Shampoos
• The 8 Very Best Clothes Steamers The 8 Very Best Clothes Steamers
• The 8 Very Best Hair Clippers The 8 Very Best Hair Clippers
• The 10 Best Wineglasses The 10 Best Wineglasses
• 11 of the Very Best Blenders 11 of the Very Best Blenders
• The 9 Very Best Teeth-Whitening Toothpastes and Kits The 9 Very Best Teeth-Whitening Toothpas…
• The 10 Very Best Men’s Deodorants and Anti-perspirants The 10 Very Best Men’s Deodorants and An…
• The 6 Very Best Portable Chargers The 6 Very Best Portable Chargers
• The 9 Very Best Tinted Moisturizers The 9 Very Best Tinted Moisturizers
• The 23 Very Best Bedsheets The 23 Very Best Bedsheets
• The 8 Very Best Adjustable Bed Bases The 8 Very Best Adjustable Bed Bases
• The 9 Very Best Safety Razors (and Blades) The 9 Very Best Safety Razors (and Blade…
• The 7 Very Best Can Openers The 7 Very Best Can Openers
• The 15 Best Women’s Hiking Boots and Shoes The 15 Best Women’s Hiking Boots and Sho…
• The 8 Very Best Blow-dryer Brushes The 8 Very Best Blow-dryer Brushes
• The 9 Very Best Black Work Pants for Women The 9 Very Best Black Work Pants for Wom…
• The 10 Very Best Electric Razors The 10 Very Best Electric Razors

The 8 Best Carry-On Backpacks

In this article

• Best overall
• Best duffel-backpack
• Best for business travel
• Best for lumbar support
• Best for long trips
• Best for short trips
• Best for rugged trips

Even though much of my job as a travel writer involves testing suitcases , I usually prefer to fly with a carry-on backpack when I have the choice. You just can’t beat the sense of freedom that comes with strapping your possessions to your shoulders and heading to the airport — to me, a suitcase says “business trip” whereas a backpack says “adventure.” Not to mention the fact that backpack wearers are almost never singled out at the gate to check their luggage.

As backpack reviewer Geoff Grisdale of One Bag Travels explains, a carry-on backpack means “you can move around a lot quicker — it’s a lot easier to travel around cities with one.” Suitcases become cumbersome as soon as you’re confronted with cobblestone streets or multiple flights of stairs, adds freelance backpack designer Jeff Mullins. “And you have to have room to store them when you get home, whereas a backpack can be compressed.” Below, you’ll find the best carry-on backpacks for different sorts of trips, as tested by myself and other globetrotting experts. While you’re here, I’ve also written guides to the best travel pillows and the best toiletry bottles .

What we’re looking for

For trips longer than a weekend, you’ll require a carry-on backpack with a capacity of at least 28 liters, says Grisdale. From there, the size you choose will depend on your packing style, how long the trip is, and whether you need room for warm layers or extra shoes. Most of the experts I spoke with agreed that the sweet spot is somewhere between 28 and 35 liters.

Some carry-on backpacks can be as large as 45 liters, which is actually five liters more volume than an Away carry-on suitcase . While this size of backpack can be useful for long-haul trips, just note that it will be “really big and heavy — and you lose a lot of the mobility you’d get when carrying a smaller backpack,” says Grisdale. Mullins agrees: “If you’re a smaller woman, for example, I don’t think you should go over 35 liters.” Even though I’ll happily hike with an ultralight 55 liter backpack, I’m not a fan of wearing carry-on bags larger than 40 liters — they’re significantly bulkier, and the back pain afterwards just isn’t worth it.

Packing style

The best carry-on backpacks are designed for ease of packing. Rather than unzipping at the top, they’ll either open up like a clamshell (with separate zippered compartments on either side), or like a duffel bag (with one big compartment that’s accessible from the front of the bag). If you’re an intentional packer who likes to keep organized on the road, the former option is likely best. But Grisdale notes that duffel-style bags are usually quicker and easier to pack because “you can just stuff your gear in there and off you go.”

Your backpack will be crammed into overhead bins or underneath aircraft seats, so look for one that’s fairly rectangular in shape, with straps and a hip belt that can be removed or tucked away. “Anything that dangles has to be gone,” says Mullins. He also notes that there should be a handle on pretty much every side of the bag, so you can grab it from whichever space it’s wedged.

Organizational features

A nice thing about living out of a backpack as opposed to a suitcase is that exterior pockets provide easy access to small items like wallets and passports. I also love that backpacks typically have loops or straps on the outside to which you can attach carabiners and clips. A good backpack will enable you to “get to all your small stuff without fully opening it,” says Mullins. “Whether that’s your phone, earbuds, book, glasses, or food.” You still don’t want a backpack with too many pockets, as these will steal real estate from the main compartment inside. “I like enough exterior pockets to be able to hold gear but not so many pockets that they take up a lot of room in the bag,” says Grisdale.

Best carry-on backpack overall

Capacity: 35 liters | Packing style: Clamshell, tuckaway straps, removable waist belt | Organizational features: External laptop sleeve, top pocket, carabiner loops

The Cotopaxi Allpa is truly a backpack for suitcase people. Its clamshell design unzips fully to reveal a large mesh compartment on the right-hand side and three smaller ones on the left, mimicking the layout of rolling luggage. It also has a hidden laptop sleeve in the back that’s generously padded (I once checked my Allpa with a MacBook inside and the laptop survived unscathed), as well as an easy-access storage compartment on top that can fit snacks, a book, and your passport. The bag is comfortable to carry, with a sternum strap and removable waist belt for extra support. It comes in three different sizes, but this 35-liter version will be the best for most people — it’s big enough for a week’s worth of clothes but small enough that you can use it as an airline personal item or large daypack. (Strategist contributing writer Margaret Eby took one on a flight to Italy in addition to a rolling suitcase, and says the tuckaway straps helped her squish it under the seat in front of her.) One gripe: There’s no external water-bottle holder on the Allpa 35, although you could easily attach a carabiner to any of its handles or lash loops.

The best carry-on duffel backpack

Capacity: 30 liters | Packing style: Duffel, tuckaway straps, tuckaway waist belt, convertible shoulder strap, trolley sleeve | Organizational features: External laptop compartment, top pocket, water bottle holder

Patagonia’s Mini MLC is constantly sold out, and for good reason. This is an unusually roomy and rugged bag that can be used as your main piece of carry-on luggage (it’s available in a 45-liter version as well, if you prefer to overpack) or as a personal item that sits atop your wheeled carry-on. (Former Strategist associate editor Louis Cheslaw refers to his as a “ secret second suitcase ,” because it lets him pack heavy without checking a bag.) Unlike the Allpa, the Mini MLC opens duffel-style, revealing a deep interior compartment that can fit several outfits and a pair of extra shoes. There’s also a laptop compartment, small stash pocket on top of the bag that’s big enough for a passport or wallet, and stretchy water-bottle holder.

The best (less-expensive) carry-on backpack

Capacity: 40 liters | Packing style: Duffel opening, compression straps | Organizational features: External laptop compartment, water bottle holder, quick-access front pocket

At less than half the price of the Allpa or Mini MLC, TomToc’s Navigator is a thoughtfully designed carry-on backpack with a large capacity and helpful organizational features. It zips open at the front to reveal a generous duffel compartment that can be filled with several outfits, whether or not you’re using packing cubes . There’s also a front pocket that’s big enough for a book, as well as a laptop sleeve in the back that can be fully unzipped, revealing extra storage space for documents, cables, and stationery. It’s an excellent affordable option, according to Grisdale.

The best carry-on backpack for business travel

Capacity: 30 liters | Packing style: Clamshell, removable waist belt | Organizational features: External laptop compartment, top pocket, front pocket, water bottle holders

Tortuga’s backpack designs are highly respected among gear reviewers across the internet. I’ve been testing out its very professional-looking Travel Backpack Pro, which opens clamshell-style to reveal two suitcase-style compartments and also features a nicely padded laptop sleeve with a false bottom for extra protection. The sternum straps are extremely comfortable and can be tucked away when not in use, the bag’s rectangular shape means it slots easily into overhead lockers (as well as airline baggage sizers — mine recently passed the Spirit Airlines personal item test with flying colors), and I like that the exterior fabric is highly waterproof and easy to wipe down. It’s also much more anonymous-looking than Cotopaxi’s colorful Allpa or Patagonia’s gorp-y Mini MLC, which makes it ideal for business travelers and digital nomads.

The best carry-on backpack with lumbar support

Capacity: 40 liters | Packing style: Duffel, adjustable tuckaway hip belt and harness | Organizational features: External laptop sleeve, external toiletries pocket

When spending her year abroad as the inaugural New York Times 52 Places traveler, journalist Jada Yuan learned the hard way that rolling luggage is terrible for long-haul travel. “I don’t know how I got through 16 stops of my trip before buying the Osprey Fairview,” she recalls. “My back and shoulders hurt all the time. I needed something with strong lumbar support, a waist belt, and a chest strap so that I could make it through the trip without getting crippled.” The Fairview’s packing style she says, is perfectly bare-bones: “Just one giant cavity, plus a zippered section for your laptop and a bunch of straps on the outside for carrying, say, a bulky jacket.” It’s definitely the most comfortable backpack on this list, says Grisdale: “Osprey’s packs are good because they have a lot of padding, they’re really thick, and they’re also adjustable. So if it doesn’t fit you right out of the box, you can move things around.”

Best carry-on duffel backpack for long trips

Capacity: 45 liter | Packing style: Duffel, compression straps, removable shoulder straps, trolley sleeve | Organizational features: External laptop compartment, hidden top pocket for valuables

Away is best known for its hard luggage, but the DTC brand’s outdoor gear shouldn’t be overlooked. Brand marketing consultant Jennifer Olson came across this big duffel-backpack while gearing up for an eight-month road trip through South America with her partner. “We’d be living in a converted Land Cruiser and needed baggage soft and malleable enough to be thrown around the back of a truck and wedged into small spaces,” she explains. “Though we’d be hiking here and there, we weren’t doing any hardcore treks, so we didn’t need a traditional trekking backpack — but rather something in between.” True to Away’s suitcase-y roots, the bag’s internal storage compartment features compression straps that are designed to secure a set of packing cubes , which Olson says really helped keep things organized on her big trip. And the convertible straps have come in handy now that she’s returned home: “I usually use it as a duffle when I’m on weekend trips or using it as a carry on, and when the bag is a little more loaded with my things, I use it in backpack mode to disperse the weight.”

The best carry-on backpack for short trips

Capacity: 30 liters | Packing style: Duffel, compression straps | Organizational features: Internal laptop sleeve, stretchy side and front pockets, front bungee elastic

I first heard about the ULA Ultra Dragonfly when lurking on the 729,000-member-strong sub-Reddit r/OneBag , which has popularized the idea of bringing no more than one smallish bag on trips and vacations. And while many One Baggers own Allpas and MLCs, this is the bag they covet most. It unzips duffel-style, with a Goldilocks-size 30-liter capacity that means it can hold a decent amount of stuff but still slide underneath a plane seat if needed. There’s no hip belt, but uniquely shaped shoulder straps are designed to be worn for hours at a time without discomfort. There’s a laptop sleeve for digital nomads, and the Ultra fabric is slightly stretchy (allowing for a bit of overpacking), unusually durable (similar to ripstop nylon), and highly waterproof (which makes it appropriate for treks and other more rugged adventures). There’s just one catch: Due to stock issues, you can only purchase the Dragonfly Ultra once a week on Wednesdays at 3 p.m. ET. Within a couple of hours, the bag sells out and its buy button disappears for another seven days.

The best carry-on backpack for rugged trips

Capacity: 45 liters | Packing style: Duffel, tuckaway shoulder straps, compression straps | Organizational features: External shoe compartments, external laptop sleeve, passport pocket

More duffel-shaped than some of the very suitcase-y backpacks on this list, Timbuk2’s unique carry-on has zip-up shoe pockets at each end, allowing you to separate dirty footwear from the rest of your stuff — an especially nice feature for anyone packing a pair of hiking shoes . I also like how waterproof this bag is. All of the fabric is easy to wipe down, and the bottom of the bag has an extra protective “boot” which means you can plonk it down anywhere without worrying about it getting muddy. “The very considered design is ideal for someone who is most at home hopping on and off planes and trains,” says Andrew Barker, the former chief content officer of the travelers club, PRIOR . He appreciates the TSA-friendly slip pockets, which give easy access to your laptop and passport.

Our experts

• Andrew Barker, former chief content officer of the travelers club PRIOR • Louis Cheslaw , former Strategist associate editor • Margaret Eby , Strategist contributing writer • Geoff Grisdale, backpack reviewer at One Bag Travels • Jeff Mullins , freelance backpack and soft-goods designer • Jennifer Olson , brand marketing consultant • Jada Yuan , Washington Post reporter and inaugural New York Times 52 Places traveler

The Strategist is designed to surface the most useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Some of our latest conquests include the best acne treatments , rolling luggage , pillows for side sleepers , natural anxiety remedies , and bath towels . We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.

• the strategist
• best in class
• packing and gear

Every product is independently selected by (obsessive) editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.

Deal of the Day

Micro sales, greatest hits, most viewed stories.

• The Best Running Watches, According to Runners
• 10 Things That Delighted Us: From Electric Mops to Plum Sykes’s Perfect Pencil
• Everything We Want to Buy From the Dôen x Gap Collaboration
• The 17 Very Best Protein Powders
• The 11 Very Best Shampoos
• The 16 Very Best Eye Creams
• What Anthony Roth Costanzo Can’t Live Without

Today’s Top Clicked

24 Travel Outfit Essentials for Women

Add slip-on shoes, cozy pashminas, and compression leggings to your packing list.

Our editors handpick the products that we feature. We may earn commission from the links on this page.

When it comes to travel, we know you need to find the perfect balance between comfort and style. After all, it’s great to look put together while hopping on a flight, but not at the cost of your comfort—especially on long-haul trips. Rest assured, we've curated a list of wardrobe essentials to achieve flawless travel and airport outfits, whether you are exploring a new destination for business or pleasure.

When it comes to the best travel outfits for women, accessories play a critical role in keeping you comfy and organized. All you have to do is remember a comfortable pair of shoes , compression socks to keep things moving, an eye mask that's an upgrade from the one the airline provides, and a chic shawl that doubles as a blanket. And of course, no travel outfit would be complete without a fashionable (and functional!) carry-on bag on your arm or atop your luggage . This bag should house all your essentials and still level up your airport outfit. Keep reading for some of the best travel and airport outfit ideas your next trip.

Chico's Travelers Classic No Tummy Pants

Chico's Travelers collection is made from wrinkle-resistant fabrics in comfortable silhouettes. Thanks to a pull-on waist and front darts, these No Tummy Pants are flattering and always look put together. If you're looking for a more relaxed silhouette, there's also the wide-leg Hutton pants in black.

Spanx AirEssentials Wide-Leg Pants

Sometimes nothing less than sweats will do, and here is where Spanx really excels. Oprah picked these for her 2022 Favorite Things , saying, “You might know Spanx for its shapewear, but it also does fantastic cozy clothes. When I tell you this set feels light as air, I’m not kidding. It’s my new leisure suit. The perfectly loose-and-lightweight fabric is like buttah!”

Girlfriend Collective Compressive Pocket Legging

Leggings are a perfect choice for traveling wear. And these have Oprah's seal of approval, as they were picked for Oprah's 2022 Favorite Things list. Eco-friendly and size-inclusive (the range goes through 6XL), these compression leggings are available in a plethora of hues. Plus, they feature double-sided seaming and pockets.

J. Crew Cashmere-Wool Travel Wrap

Let's be honest, you can't always count on the airline's blankets to keep you warm, and some even leave annoying fluff behind. Stay warm and stylish with your own wearable blanket by way of this travel necessity from J.Crew that comes in eight different colors.

Vuori Elevation Trouser in Midnight Heather

Vuori is celebrated for its super-cozy pieces. The best thing about these pants? They look put together while the stretch-knit fabric is as comfy as your favorite Vuori loungers. The high-rise waist and loose fit of the leg give you an effortlessly stylish silhouette.

Dr. Scholl's Time Off Platform Sneakers

Celebrated for consciously comfortable footwear, these sneakers from Dr. Scholl's are tricked out with tons of features for all-day comfort. Inside, anatomical cushioning and arch support keep you covered while a lightweight, anti-slip platform sole protects on the outside. This minimalist sneaker looks just as good with a matching suit as it does with a low-key sweat set.

Spanx Women's AirEssentials Half-Zip Sweater

Sometimes nothing less than sweats will do, and here is where Spanx really excels. Oprah picked this top for her 2023 Favorite Things , saying, “Wow. Wow. Wow. May I tell you I got this set last year? I wore it in a photo shoot for O Quarterly and never looked back...” Why not pair it with the coordinating wide-leg pants for a full sweatsuit?

Dr. Motion Compression Socks with Enhanced Cushioning (3 Pack)

Compression socks are always a good idea for traveling. We recommend these styles from Dr. Motion that offer graduated compression of 8 to 15 mmHg while providing arch support. Unlike other socks that can feel scratchy or clammy, these are soft, moisture-wicking, and subtly cushioned.

Spanx Core-Shaping Perfect Pant High-Rise Flare

The perfect pant does not exist—wait, yes it does, and here it is. This high-rise flare option is designed with premium ponte fabric and a comfortable pull-on design for maximum comfort and easy styling on your flight. Plus, it comes in size XS to 3X, so there's something for everyone.

Hoka Women's Bondi 8 Sneakers

Hoka's sneakers are cult Oprah Daily office favorites and podiatrist-approved . Not only do they look good with just about everything, but the Bondi 8 sneakers also offer a full-length EVA midsole for the highest level of cushioning and arch support.

Everlane Organic Cotton Honeycomb Cardigan

This gorgeous honeycomb cotton cardigan is part of the latest iteration of Everlane Editions: The Art of Spring Layering. Crafted from responsibly sourced and lower-impact materials, this 100 percent organic cotton knit is ideal for layering before, during, and after your flight.

JW PEI Aylin Canvas Cellphone Crossbody Bag

Making sure you have all your essentials when going through airport security can be tough. Thankfully with this convenient crossbody, you'll have your phone and cards right at hand.

Birdies Vesper Seven-Layer Cloud Comfort Loafers

Birdies' classic loafer will elevate any airport look. They're crafted with tumbled Nappa leather, a no-slip rubbber sole, and the brand's signature seven-layer footbed for ultra-cushy support. Plus, the Vesper comes in sizes 5 to 12, and a range of colors like silver leather and cappucino with raffia accents.

K. Carroll Accessories Taylor Tote

These vegan suede totes are great for hauling all your in-flight essentials, with plenty of room. There are a range of colors to choose from. "Not too big or too small, this vegan suede tote is just the right size for your on-the-go loved one in need of a stylish solution," Oprah said when highlighting the Taylor tote on her 2022 Favorite Things list.

Naadam Original 100 Percent Cashmere Sweater

Warm, soft, and chic—few things are as reliable as a chic crewneck sweater. At under $100, Naadam's perfect knit comes in core and limited-edition hues. Pro tip: Order a size or two larger than your usual for an ultra-cozy fit that's perfect for throwing around your shoulders or as a plane layering piece. And what's more, the sweater is machine-washable (yes, you read that right).

Lands' End Wrinkle-Free Button-Down Shirt

A classic button-down is a travel essential that elevates any in-transit look. Lands' End's timeless button-down has all the details you need: a lightweight, wrinkle-resistant stretch fabric and a longer length for coverage. Luckily, you can cover all your bases with plenty of solid and striped options to choose from. Plus, it comes in an extended range of sizes from XXS to 3X.

Asutra Silk Eye Mask & Pillow

Oprah chose this eye mask for her 2023 Favorite Things list. "Sleeping with a mask is life-changing—I cannot tell you how much the quality of my sleep has improved," she said. "This weighted 100 percent silk one stays down and doesn’t let even a pinch of light in.” Co-owned by superstar Venus Williams, Asustra produces eye pillows that are filled with lavender and flax. Whether you want to meditate or snooze during your flight, this adjustable mask will definitely relax you.

Frankie 4 Triple Layered-Support and Cushion Liberty Black Boots

If it's not on your radar yet, Frankie 4 is a podiatrist-designed shoe line that offers insanely comfortable footwear. These are the perfect black boots to run around the airport and to wear on your trip as your professional or going out shoes.

Zeagoo Coordinated Two Piece Linen Pants Set

You might look like you're already on vacation if you show up to the airport in this neutral pants and button-down set. Available in two bright and two neutral colors, and sizes small to 2XL.

State Bags Kane Double Pocket Backpack

A decent backpack for travel is essential, and this minimalist beauty from State Bags is the epitome of a good one. The most brilliant part about this seemingly simple bag is that it has two main zippered compartments—so you can keep your clothes, a pair of shoes, and your laptop separate and protected. We love the high-quality nylon that doesn't attract dirt and is easy to clean. It's sleek, simple, and logo-free, and of course, there's a trolly sleeve for easy transit.

Sara Klausing covers all things fashion and style for Oprah Daily . Follow her on Instagram .

Summer Ideas and Essentials

15 Best Beach Hats for Sunny Days Ahead

Stylish Beach Bags to Tote Your Essentials

The Best Bikini Trimmers Will Leave You Smooth

Crossbody Bags for Every Style

36 Flattering Swimsuits for Your Next Getaway

The Best Lip Balms with SPF

The 10 T-Shirts Our Editors Live In and Swear By

24 Beautiful Wedding Guest Dresses

Smooth and Sculpt with Tummy-Control Swimsuits

Comfortable Wedding Shoes to Dance in All Night

Refresh Your Wardrobe with These Cozy, Cool Sweats

Find anything you save across the site in your account

18 Best Travel Backpacks, According to Frequent Flyers

By Gabrielle Porcaro

As someone who frequently travels, I've slung duffels, totes , and travel purses on my arm, but nothing compares to using the best travel backpacks. Depending on the length of your trip, a suitcase can either be too bulky or not big enough, so you'll need the vital second bag to make sure all your clothes, tech, and gear securely arrive at your destination. Plus, traveling with a backpack can be more supportive for your back, freeing up your arms and hands to pull out directions on your phone or to hold an iced coffee. Backpacks can also be surprisingly roomy, so everything you need (or want) on your trip fits as comfortably as possible. The good news is there are a wide range of excellent options to suit any and all of your needs. Below, we found the most travel-friendly options and tapped Glamour editors and some of our frequent-flier friends to share the best travel backpacks.

What to look for in a travel backpack

When shopping for luggage items like a travel backpack, the comfort and capacity of the bag is key. You want it to feel easy on the body, which means wide straps or a hip belt to distribute weight, which comes in handy if you're running to catch a plane or carrying it through a crowded subway. Bonus points if the straps are they adjustable and padded. Consider the material: Is it lightweight, soft, and made of durable material like water-resistant fabric? As for size, think about the use of the backpack. There are weekender bags and carry-on size options you can use for long weekends or smartly packed weeklong vacations and styles for short day trips, hikes, or shopping excursions.

The best travel backpacks, at a glance

• Best Overall : Cotopaxi Allpa 42L Travel Pack , $210
• Best on Amazon : Shrradoo Extra Large 52L Travel Laptop Backpack , $33
• Best Daypack : Lululemon Everywhere Backpack , $78
• Best Budget : Coofay Carry On Backpack , $30
• Best for Commuters : Everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack , $95
• Most Stylish : Tumi Voyageur Just in Case Packable Nylon Travel Backpack , $150

All products featured on Glamour are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Best Overall : Cotopaxi Allpa 42L Travel Pack

Cotopaxi Allpa 42L Travel Pack - Del Día

Here's a simple, sleek backpack with plenty of built-in organization. “My twin sister and I have traveled the world together, and this bag came in particularly handy on our trip to South America when we both needed more room besides our carry-on luggage. What I loved about this piece is it's essentially a suitcase with straps. The wrap zipper fully opens up, allowing you to see and organize your goods into the compartments. Crafted in repurposed nylon, the exterior is one of a kind, and the colors made it easier to spot one another through the crowds,” says Glamour contributor Gabrielle Porcaro .

Capacity: 42 L / Waterproof : Water-resistant

• Pros: Repurposed nylon body; suitcase layout; weight-distributing harness system
• Cons: Can easily show dirt

Best on Amazon : Shrradoo Extra Large 52L Travel Laptop Backpack

SHRRADOO Extra Large 52L Travel Laptop Backpack

As a runner-up, consider this the Swiss Army knife of backpacks. Hidden in this compact, durable bag are 20 pockets and compartments to accommodate and organize everything from clothes to an umbrella to power cords. A practical standout feature of this travel backpack is an external USB port with set-in charging cables to charge your phone (just remember to charge your power pack before heading out on your trip). Another noteworthy aspect is the U-shaped 3D breathable mesh straps designed to relieve stress from shoulders and reduce a sweaty back.

Capacity: 52 L / Waterproof : Water-resistant

• Pros: So many pockets for organizing; USB charging port; comfortable
• Cons: Chunky, technical look

Best Daypack : Lululemon Everywhere Backpack

Lululemon Everywhere Backpack 22L

Lululemon gets a lot of love for its Lulu leggings and activewear, but don't sleep on accessories like its laptop bags . A classic backpack with a modern design, the Everywhere Backpack has a clean appearance that will effortlessly match your look. Inside it's spacious and has a padded pocket that fits a 16-inch laptop. On the exterior is a front zipper pocket for keys, antibacterial wipes, headphones…whatever you need handy while on the go.

Capacity: 22 L / Waterproof : Water-repellent

• Pros: Internal laptop sleeve; side water bottle pockets; lightweight
• Cons: No luggage strap; not a ton of pockets

Best Budget : Coofay Carry On Backpack

Coofay Carry On Backpack

This affordable, multifunctional pack is lightweight but can hold a lot and easily fit under an airline seat as a carry-on. “I loved the space and compartments of this bag. It's durable and packed a lot of room for so many things. The luggage handle strap is also a bonus if you're hauling a roller bag,” wrote one Amazon reviewer . Bonus: It has a shoes and a wet pocket compartment.

Capacity: 17 L / Waterproof : Yes

• Pros: Separate shoe compartment, 29 color options; USB port design
• Cons: Short luggage strap

By Emily Tannenbaum

By Lauren Murdoch-Smith

By The Glamour editors

Best for Commuters : Everlane the ReNew Transit Backpack

Everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack

Whether you're a college commuter or in the office most days, this is an excellent option for everyday travel or work trips. It's a go-to for Condé Nast associate director of box business operations Haley Welch . “The separate laptop compartment makes organizing seamless, as does the front and upper zipper compartments, which is great for a Kindle,” she says. She likes that the chic and minimal look effortlessly mixes with every outfit, from comfy travel joggers and hoodies to a work-appropriate suit or dress.

Capacity : 27 L / Waterproof : Water-resistant

• Pros : Internal and external water bottle holders; zipper pocket on top; made from renewed materials
• Cons : Only holds a 15-inch laptop

Most Stylish : Best Tumi Voyageur Just In Case Packable Nylon Travel Backpack

Tumi Voyageur Just in Case Packable Nylon Travel Backpack

For anyone looking for a dressier option for their everyday commute or regular work trips, Tumi has a gorgeous style. Don't let the sleek appearance fool you; the zipper reveals a very roomy interior but still folds flat. A two-way zipper makes it easier to grab whatever you need from the inside with a smaller front pocket as well. There’s also a very convenient add-to-a-bag sleeve to secure this nicely over your suitcase handle, making it one to use on daily and international excursions. It's so stylish it can double as a cute work bag for office days.

Capacity: 15"H x 12"W x 4 1/2"D. (Interior capacity: large) / Waterproof : Water-resistant

• Pros :Packable; folds down flat; lightweight
• Cons: Doesn’t fit a ton

Best for Organization : Snoffic Travel Backpack

Snoffic Travel Backpack

If remaining organized is of the utmost importance while traveling or in everyday life, look no further than this Snoffic backpack. This wallet-friendly pick has a 4.6-star rating on Amazon and under $35 price tag. “I was able to pack a week's worth of summer clothes in it, which included two summer dresses," says one Amazon reviewer . Not only does this bag offer ample space and waterproof material, but it also includes two clear toiletry bags (also waterproof) to help you reduce your zip-lock baggie usage. Plus, it comes in a wide range of pretty shades.

Capacity : 40 L / Waterproof : Water-resistant

• Pros : Nicely priced; roomy; includes two toiletry bags
• Cons : Boxy shape

Best for Pockets : Athleta Excursion Backpack

Athleta Excursion Backpack

This pick, courtesy of Glamour commerce editor Malia Griggs , is one that can hold every little trinket or gadget you own. “I thought this backpack was going to my go-to for hiking, but it’s actually my go-to for pretty much everything. I love how sleek it is, and yet, despite its slim appearance, it manages to fit my 15-inch laptop, my secondary screen, charger, headphones, e-reader, and mouse. It has handy organizational features, like an inner key ring, zippered outer pockets for me to stash my lip gloss and phone, and not one but two mesh pockets that fit my water bottle and an umbrella. Its handles are also made of a breathable fabric—so useful when I’ve worked up a sweat while out and about.”

• Pros :Lightweight; ripstop material resists snags and tears; mesh back panel for added support
• Cons: Larger on top shape

Best Minimalist Design : Dagne Dover Dakota Medium Neoprene Backpack

Dagne Dover Dakota Medium Neoprene Backpack

“On my last flight I saw not one, not two, but multiple travelers with this style hanging from their backs. As someone who regularly takes Dagne Dover bags on trips, I understand the popularity. The neoprene material is strong, soft, and stretchy, which causes the bag to flex to your body and whatever you put inside. It's forgiving, allowing you to fit in and possibly overstuff everything you need for a trip. It also washes well, ensuring it will always have that chic appearance even after some wear and tear,” says Porcaro. Dagne Dover also makes excellent diaper backpacks like this parent-approved Indi Diaper Bag .

Capacity: 16 L / Waterproof : No

• Pros: Packs a lot; machine washable
• Cons: Neoprene is a bit heavier than other material; material creases easily

Best for Airplane Travel : Augustnoa Classic Noa

Augustnoa Classic Noa

“So many features drew me to this bag: the eco-friendly (plus water-friendly) material, smart design, and luggage sleeve—a must for any travel carry-on piece. There are ten pockets and compartments to organize essentials, something I took full advantage of when using. As an active person trying to hydrate more, I also appreciated the side pockets that securely held my water bottle (I bent over, and it didn't budge). It also includes a removable drawstring bag, something I always forget to pack for morning workouts and overnight travels,” says Porcaro.

Capacity: 21 L / Waterproof : Water-resistant

• Pros: Pockets on straps; laptop and tablet sleeve; two water bottle holders
• Cons: Pockets in the back and on straps are small

Best Roll Top : Roark Passenger 27L 2.0 Bag

Roark Passenger 27L 2.0 Bag

Expandable storage is always a plus with any travel bag. This backpack, from super cool brand Roark, has an adjustable top to allow more room. The roll-top also has a magnetic entry, allowing for easy and secure access on the move. Interior and exterior pockets, including one for your tablet or laptop, sunglasses, and a hidden pocket for your passport, are specific details that make this a unique backpack. Ergonomic air mesh padded straps, a quilted back, and chest straps prevent this from adding any discomfort to your travels. The appearance calls for adventure, but it equally works in cities.

Capacity: 27 L / Waterproof : 100% Nylon

• Pros: Streamlined look; quilted back; magnetic closure top
• Cons: Could use more internal pockets

Best Large Travel Bag : Patagonia Black Hole Duffel 55L

Patagonia Black Hole® Duffel 55L

The beauty of this bag is it says it right in the title—it's a black hole. With a 55-liter capacity, there's no doubt it will hold everything you need for a long weekend or even a long weekend trip. Ultra-comfortable to carry, it's perfect for hiking excursions, camping trips, or multi-city European backpacking adventures. Durably made with 100% recycled fabric, this fits in the overhead bin; if you want to check it, you can trust it will return to you just as you left it.

Capacity: 55 L / Waterproof : Water Repellent

• Pros: Large, carry-on size, top and side handles; removable shoulder straps
• Cons: Rugged design

Best for Laptop : Herschel Kaslo Dayback Tech Backpack

Herschel Kaslo Dayback Tech Backpack

If you're looking for a laptop backpack , this is a top choice. Hershel backpacks are a go-to for marriage and family therapist and mom of two boys, Whitney Steller. “I have had this for almost six years, and the quality is amazing. No rips or anything and the straps are still comfortable. “The classic grade school look was also a draw and the fact that it fits perfectly under a plane seat. This style, in particular, is eco-friendly, made from post-consumer water bottles, and has a padded compartment to fit up a 15-inch laptop.

Capacity: 20 L / Waterproof : No

• Pros: Optional strum strap to help disturbed weight; padded compartment for laptop
• Cons: No luggage sleeve

Best Y-Pack : Topo Designs Y-Pack Backpack

Topo Designs Y-Pack Backpack

This is an awesome option for anyone who ends up leaving a trip with more than they brought. “The adjustable Y-shaped strap can be tight and secure or loosened to allow for more room, which is the reason why this is a piece of heavy rotation for me. It always shocks me how much I can fit/shove into the main compartment yet still slide my laptop out of the back sleeve. No matter if it’s filled with a hoodie and various pouches holding makeup, power cords, and snacks; it's easy to access. I like to use the zip pocket on the top to store antibacterial wipes, hand sanitizer, headphones, and anything else I want easy access to once I arrive on the flight,” says Porcaro.

Capacity: 23.8 L / Waterproof : No

• Pros: Drawstring closure offers more space; zip pocket on top for easy access; durable material great for travel and the outdoors
• Cons: G-hook buckle closure can sometimes be tough

Best Waterproof : SealLine Skylake Dry Pack

SealLine Skylake Dry Pack

The beauty of this piece is that it rolls up for easy packing within a suitcase or larger travel backpack. The fact that it's created from an extremely lightweight material also ups the packability and wear factor. Jen Ator, a personal trainer, used this on her honeymoon in Thailand. “Not only was it super sturdy and waterproof, but it fits everything we needed during day trips.” She also pointed out how handy the exterior pocket was for easy access to essentials like a phone to snap a picture of her and her husband.

Capacity : 18 L / Waterproof : Yes

• Pros: Lightweight; stowable
• Cons: No interior pocket

Best Convertible : Thule Crossover 2 Convertible Backpack

Thule Crossover 2 Convertible Backpack

Adaptability is vital when traveling, and this Thule convertible backpack offers various ways to hold it. If you're in a tight space, de-boarding, or want to give your shoulders a break, there is a longer shoulder strap and top handle to hold. Inside the backpack, you'll find compartments that look like your favorite easy-rolling carry-on suitcase, making it easy to keep everything with you secure and organized. Another standout feature is the exterior crush-resistant SafeZone compartment that's perfect for storing sunglasses or a phone.

Capacity: 21 ¾"H x 14"W x 8"D. / Waterproof : Water Resistant

• Pros: Crust resistant, two-way zip closure, RFID-shielded pocket;
• Cons: Expensive

Best for City Travel : PAK Large Nylon Backpack

PAK Large Nylon Backpack

“As a backpack I recently added to my collection, I was impressed by how many features were hidden in what seemed like a pretty basic bag. First, it’s worth noting how seamlessly this slid on and off my back, making it a breeze to sit on the subway or grab my wallet to buy coffee. At first glance, I was confused about the zipper on the bottom of the front pocket, but when I realized it was a coat sling, which, as someone who runs cold and always has an extra layer, is something I will use again and again. Another made-for-me feature is an extra large pocket for water bottles since it’s a personal pet peeve when they aren’t wide enough for standard sizes. Having only worn this around the city for daily life, I appreciate that the shape and look of the pack are city-ready and more polished. When I take this on international trips, I look forward to using the hidden theft-proof compartments,” says Porcaro.

Capacity: 13.5”L x 7” W x 14” H / Waterproof : No

• Pros: Easy access pocket in the back, Coat sling, Large side pockets
• Cons: Not super large

Best Customizable : Roam Continental Backpack

Roam Continental Backpack

Anyone who is a fan of customization will appreciate this pick. Buyers can choose the color they want on the front, back, side, and straps to create a bag that is uniquely theirs. This is favorite of Glamour commerce editor Jenifer Calle , who has been using it for years. “It fits enough for weekend trips and vacation travel. I particularly like that the side zippers fit my Owala water bottle and there are plenty of zipper and pockets to hold my wallet, keys, chargers, lip balms, and more” says Glamour’s Calle.

Capacity : 26 L / Waterproof : Water Repellent

• Pros : Customizable; 100-day trial period; soft material; luggage sleeve
• Cons : Expensive

By Paula Lee

By Malia Griggs

By Talia Abbas

By Andrea Navarro

Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

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

Switchback Travel ( Brian McCurdy )

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

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

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

Our Team's Top Travel Backpack Picks

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

Best Overall Travel Backpack

1. cotopaxi allpa 35l ($200).

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

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

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

2. peak design travel backpack ($300).

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

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

Excellent Carrying Comfort for Gear-Intensive Trips

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

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

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

Best Travel Pack for Staying Organized

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

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

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

Best Budget Travel Backpack

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

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

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

Best High-Capacity Travel Pack for Long Trips

6. osprey farpoint 70 ($230).

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

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

Best of the Rest

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

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

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

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

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

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

9. Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L ($350)

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

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

10. Yeti Crossroads 35L Backpack ($250)

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

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

11. Matador GlobeRider45 ($350)

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

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

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

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

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

13. Thule Aion Travel Pack ($200)

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

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

14. Pacsafe EXP45 ($290)

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

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

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

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

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

16. Nomatic Travel Bag 40L ($290)

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

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

17. Mystery Ranch Mission Rover 45 ($249)

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

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

Travel Backpack Comparison Table

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

About Our Testing Process

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

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

Travel Backpack Buying Advice

Size and capacity.

• Carry-on Size Restrictions

Organization: Pockets and Main Compartment Access

Carrying comfort, grab handles and alternate carry methods.

• Other Features

Construction and Durability

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

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

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

Travel Backpack Dimensions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Other Travel Pack Features

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read More From Switchback Travel

Best Duffel Bags of 2024

Best Women’s Travel Pants of 2024

Camping Gear Reviews

Best Massage Guns of 2024

Best Hikes in El Chaltén, Argentina

Best Hiking Shoes of 2024

Best Water Bottles for Hiking of 2024

A Year on the Road (Part 1): Northern British Columbia

Best Camping Blankets of 2024

Mobile Menu

Megamenu - desktop hamburger menu.

• Hiking Gear
• Backpacking Gear
• Biking Gear
• Camping Gear
• Footwear Reviews
• Climbing Gear
• Skiing Gear
• Winter Gear Reviews
• In-Depth Gear Reviews
• Hiking Shoes
• Hiking Boots
• Trail Running Shoes
• Mountain Bike Shoes
• Approach Shoes
• Climbing Shoes
• Beginner Climbing Shoes
• Mountaineering Boots
• Winter Boots
• Rain Jackets
• Down Jackets
• Synthetic Jackets
• Fleece Jackets
• Hardshell Jackets
• Softshell Jackets
• Windbreaker Jackets
• Ski Jackets
• Winter Jackets
• Hiking Pants
• Hiking Socks
• Trekking Poles
• Baby Carriers
• Running Vests
• Backpacking Tents
• Backpacking Packs
• Backpacking Sleeping Bags
• Backpacking Sleeping Pads
• Backpacking Stoves
• Backpacking Food
• Water Filters
• Altimeter Watches
• Handheld GPS
• Mountain Bike Helmets
• Mountain Bikes
• Mountain Bikes Under $1,000
• Mountain Bikes Under $2,000
• Gravel Bikes
• Bike Brands
• Kids' Bikes
• Hitch Bike Racks
• Camping Tents
• Rooftop Tents
• Camping Sleeping Bags
• Camping Mattresses
• Camping Chairs
• Camping Stoves
• Duffel Bags
• Rock Climbing Shoes
• Climbing Helmets
• Climbing Harnesses
• Climbing Quickdraws
• Belay Devices
• Climbing Ropes
• Climbing Backpacks
• Winter Gloves
• 4-Season Tents
• Ski Helmets
• Ski Goggles
• Ski Backpacks
• All-Mountain Skis
• Ski Bindings
• Backcountry Skis
• Backcountry Ski Boots
• Skis for Beginners
• Hardpack Skis
• Mirrorless Cameras
• Full-Frame Cameras
• DSLR Cameras
• Point-and-Shoot Cameras
• Travel Cameras
• DSLR Lenses
• Mirrorless Lenses
• Lofoten Islands
• Lofoten Hiking
• Hardangervidda
• Jotunheimen
• 10 Great Norway Hikes
• Public Huts
• Torres del Paine
• Chalten and Glaciares
• Lake District
• Patagonia National Park
• Milford Sound
• Abel Tasman
• Marlborough
• Great Walks
• Adventure Towns

Add adventure to your inbox

• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Service

© 2024 Switchback Travel. All Rights Reserved. No part of this site may be reproduced without our written permission.

13 Best Travel Backpacks of 2024, Tested by Experts

Keep all your belongings safe and organized in a lightweight backpack.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Our top picks:

Best Overall Travel Backpack

Cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack.

Best Value Travel Backpack

Coofay travel backpack.

Most Versatile Travel Backpack

Peak design travel backpack 45l.

Best Weekender Travel Backpack

Away f.a.r convertible backpack 45l.

Best Carry-On Travel Backpack

Asenlin 40l travel backpack.

Best Travel Backpack for Backpacking

Osprey porter 46l travel pack.

Best Travel Backpack for Business Travel

Tumi alpha bravo search backpack.

Best Travel Backpack for Flying

Thule aion travel backpack.

Best Travel Backpack for Work

Samsonite silhouette 17 backpack.

Best Lightweight Travel Backpack

Osprey daylite plus daypack.

The Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab evaluates backpacks both in Lab and with consumer testers for durability and comfort. From the best laptop backpacks and backpacks for college students to the best duffels and daypacks , we've seen it all. To find the best travel backpacks, we test everything from tear strength to strap strength and abrasion resistance to make sure the bag can stand up to rough handling for years to come. We also work with consumer testers who try them out on various trips under real-world conditions. We also consider the amount of padding in the straps, useful extras and overall weight to find the most comfortable backpacks.

Our picks are top performers from testing along with new styles that have exciting features and rave reviews. Check out our top travel backpack picks below and keep reading to learn all of our ultimate backpack shopping tips to find the best pack for you. Pair your new travel backpack with packing cubes and a hard-side suitcase for your next vacation.

We were shocked by just how much we could fit inside this travel backpack during our packing tests. In fact, it outperformed multiple carry-on suitcases for its generous capacity and well-designed interior. Similar to hard-side luggage, the bag completely unzips for easy packing and, in this case, features helpful mesh to help separate compartments.

On top of that, we liked the helpful ergonomic features, from the padding along the back to the hip strap and sternum strap, which offer comfort and support. Plus, when testing the laptop sleeve, we found there was room to spare after placing a 16-inch laptop in it. The only note of caution is that the bag doesn't have a luggage sleeve, so if you're hoping to stack it on top of rolling luggage, it may not be the right fit.

When we surveyed our own editors and staff for their favorite bags, this one from Coofay was a hit for its organizational pockets and personal-item-friendly size. One staffer told us, "This backpack can definitely fit a week of clothing if rolled properly."

Like many popular travel backpacks, this one unzips like a suitcase for easy packing and has tons of small compartments to help keep your belongings in order. We particularly appreciate the compression straps on the side, allowing you to pack more while keeping the bag within the personal item size limit of most domestic airlines. Plus, there's a wide range of colors to choose from.

Designed with intention, Peak Design's travel backpack is truly a standout within the industry. While it's hard to find a travel bag that can tackle all sorts of trips, this one manages to do just that . It's truly one-of-a-kind and allows you to access your belongings from the front (like a suitcase), the back (like a top-loading traditional backpack) and the sides.

Compression features allow you to easily convert it from a 30L capacity to a 35L or 45L bag for all your travel needs. The backpack straps can be hidden away to keep it streamlined while using the simple luggage sleeve. The only challenge comes with packing: While the interior is spacious, there aren't too many separate compartments, so if that's important to you, the brand offers a selection of compatible packing cubes , including protective ones for camera equipment.

With a massive 45L interior, this bag from Away can hold everything you need for a weekend away, including multiple outfits, toiletries and even an extra pair of shoes. It's the go-to travel backpack for GH's Home & Apparel Reviews Analyst Amanda Constantine , who's brought it on everything from short weekend getaways to longer trips abroad.

Constantine notes, "The straps are comfortable and feel sturdy, and I love that the backpack straps can be tucked away if I'm carrying the bag like a suitcase instead of on my back." In addition, this pack also has all the top-notch organizational features you'd expect from Away, from compression straps to convenient mesh pockets. The caveat? The zippers are a little too easy to open and sometimes have a tendency to come undone.

This backpack includes the ultimate organizational system: Three packing cubes , a laptop case, a water bottle/umbrella pocket and a small front pocket. The packing cubes are ideal to keep your clothes compact and wrinkle-free while traveling. We also love the padded straps and side buckles to make sure everything stays in place.

It has a clamshell opening and both sides lie down flat, which makes this backpack easier to pack and organize as you don't have to stuff items in from the top. This pick is ideal as a carry-on for international travel as you can easily pack your clothes and what you'll need on the flight.

Finding a good backpacking bag can be a challenge. You'll want a bag that's spacious and supportive enough that it won't cause injury. Luckily, Osprey is known for its ergonomically designed packs, making it a favorite brand amongst some hiking enthusiasts at GH. One GH analyst has even taken the brand's bags on a two-week backpacking trip to Thailand, calling them comfortable and well-designed.

This model comes with a generous 46L capacity and helpful compression straps, both on the exterior and interior, allowing you to bring everything you'll need and then some. Additionally, this bag features the brand's helpful chest and hip straps for support, along with helpful pockets throughout. Take note, however, that it comes in a unisex style, so users accustomed to women-specific packs may find the shoulder straps stiff.

Carrying a TUMI backpack is a status symbol no matter where you are — the brand is known for its luxury travel products worldwide, particularly for its long-lasting quality and service . Buying a travel product (e.g. a bag or luggage) from the brand typically comes with a five-year warranty and free repairs plus a lifetime registration and tracking service for finding lost bags. Even after five years, you can ask the brand to repair your bag for a small cost.

TUMI's Search Backpack is sleek enough for conferences and work trips, making it great for business travel or everyday use. One GH analyst has used this bag for over 10 years, throughout school and work and on multiple domestic and international flights. While the top-loading configuration isn't as seamless for packing, testers were still impressed by how "surprisingly spacious" and "high quality" it felt.

Having the right backpack can make all the difference when going through airport security. This one from Thule, one of our favorite luggage brands, comes equipped with helpful features like a small easy-to-reach pocket for your passport and boarding pass plus a convenient laptop compartment . Within the bag, there's a helpful divider for organization along with other mesh pockets and panels.

The bag also comes in two sizes — 28L and 40L — each of which makes the perfect personal item or carry-on respectively. And if 28L sounds a bit too small, this size expands to 32L to accommodate more essentials. The only caveat is that the 40L version doesn't come with any hip straps, which is rare for a backpack of its size. The brand suggests pairing the bag with the Aion Sling , which slots in easily for support.

Ideal when traveling for business or even everyday commuting to work, the Silhouette 17 backpack has all the essentials and then some. In fact, it's designed to replace your carry-on, which can slow you down when on a last-minute business trip. Moreover, Samsonite's soft-side luggage has proven be abrasion-resistant and strong in our tests , staying in great shape, so we are confident in the durability of the brand's similar products.

Beyond the durable nature, it opens up like a hardshell suitcase, complete with functional sections, and has a padded laptop sleeve for easy access. Plus, it easily convert from a backpack to a briefcase or shoulder bag. For longer trips, you can even slide it onto checked luggage instead of maneuvering two suitcases through the airport.

Often used on day hikes for its lightweight design, a daypack can be a great option for those in search of a not-so-heavy travel backpack. And when it comes to the best daypacks , Osprey reigns supreme as the top-performing brand, earning especially high scores for their amazing ease-of-use features and fitting everything in our packing test .

Recent testers have loved that Osprey bags have "lots of compartments" and "comfortable cushioned shoulder straps." Some even highlighted the helpful sternum strap, which keeps the weight evenly distributed, preventing shoulder pain. You can also expect an interior sleeve to fit a laptop or tablet or a hydration reservoir for hikes, plus a slew of pockets in the front including two mesh water bottle pockets.

Herschel Kaslo Backpack Tech

When we tested this laptop backpack , we were surprised by how lightweight yet protective it felt. The detail and care are evident throughout: The bag has reinforced stitching in areas where you'd expect extra tugging like the top handle, straps and luggage sleeve. There's also a separate laptop compartment with a fleece lining to help minimize potential scratches.

One Textiles Lab analyst swears by this bag, using it as both her everyday bag for commuting as well as her go-to travel backpack, especially on business trips when she'll need her laptop handy. In our packing test, we found the 30L capacity large enough to fit a 16-inch laptop plus three to four days of clothes and toiletries. If that’s not the right size for you, it also comes in a 20L capacity for those with more petite frames.

patagonia Patagonia Black Hole Pack - 25 L

Whether you're backpacking through a new country or flying to a nearby city, this Patagonia pack is up for the adventure. It's made with polyester that has a durable water-repellent finish to keep all your belongings protected. One tester shared that this bag is the "backpack to end all backpacks" because it's great for all types of vacations and features a sternum strap you can easily adjust to suit your height.

While the 25L capacity may look small, the bag lives up to its "Black Hole" name, fitting much more than you'd expect, especially when you roll your clothes up , or you can opt for the 32L style . Plus, in Lab tests, water rolled right off the main fabric of the bag with ease, so you can rest assured it'll protect your belongings even in unpredictable weather.

Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Backpack

No one wants an uncomfortable backpack, which is why we loved this bag from Dagne Dover. It's made of neoprene fabric, which feels soft and squishy instead of stiff like some other bags. The brand also does not skimp when it comes to details like an interior pocket to hold a water bottle or cell phone and a pouch that can be attached on a leash inside the main compartment to find small stuff quickly.

The main compartment has a laptop sleeve and is large enough for a weekend trip. Plus, it even has a sleek luggage sleeve, slipping easily onto a carry-on suitcase at the airport. Take note: We found that if you’re rough with the bag, the neoprene fabric may pill (though pills can easily be removed with a fabric shaver ). This pick comes in small and medium sizes too.

How we test travel backpacks

The Good Housekeeping Institute has been testing travel products and backpacks for decades.

Grace Wu (she/her) is a product reviews analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she evaluates fabric-based products using specialized equipment and consumer tester data. Prior to starting at Good Housekeeping in 2022, she earned a master of engineering in materials science and engineering and a bachelor of science in fiber science from Cornell University. While earning her degrees, Grace worked in research laboratories for smart textiles and nanotechnology and held internships at Open Style Lab and Rent the Runway.

Emma Seymour (she/her) is a senior product analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she has led testing for luggage, pillows, towels, tampons and more since 2018. She graduated from Cornell University with a bachelor of science in fiber science and apparel design and a minor in gerontology, completing research in the Body Scanner Lab on optimizing activewear for athletic performance. 

@media(max-width: 64rem){.css-o9j0dn:before{margin-bottom:0.5rem;margin-right:0.625rem;color:#ffffff;width:1.25rem;bottom:-0.2rem;height:1.25rem;content:'_';display:inline-block;position:relative;line-height:1;background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}} Product Reviews

The 6 Best No-Pull Dog Harnesses

The 8 Best Online Flower Delivery Services

Clothes Steamer vs. Iron: Which is Better?

The Best Odor Eliminators

The Best Cooling Sheets

The Best Recovery Shoes and Sandals

The Best Pillow Cloud Slides on Amazon

The Best Learning Towers

The Best Mattresses

The Best Toilets

The Best Portable Carpet Cleaners

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Gear » Packing The BEST Travel Clothes For Any Trip – UPDATED 2024

Packing The BEST Travel Clothes For Any Trip – UPDATED 2024

If you close your eyes and try to imagine what a traveler or backpacker looks like, what do you see? Is it a young, pale man dressed head to toe in khaki colored outdoor wear (or geography teacher chic) or is it a sun-kissed, dreadlocked hippy chick in elephant pants and strappy vest? Both of the above? None of the above?

Anyway, for a long time I also had a pretty narrow definition of traveler dress sense and kind of put backpackers into either the badly dressed or the barely dressed category. But, it really doesn’t need to be this way! Backpacker chic and travel clothes can actually be stylish and practical.

Choosing the right clothes to take travelling can actually be pretty tough. You need to make sure you have the right clobber to wear for all occasions but at the same time you want to try and pack as lightly as possible. And of course, more often than that the “normal person” clothes you wear in your day to day life back home simply won’t cut it. To be fair, you would be forgiven for thinking that you need to bear a whole new wardrobe or (at least suitcase) of threads before you hit the road.

Right then, let’s have a look and see if we can find the perfect travel clothes for your next trip!

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

Choosing The Right Travel Clothes

Ok, so, what are the best travel clothes? Well before we give you our list we want to give you some rational first!

There are a few golden rules to finding travel clothes to take on any trip.

The first thing is to try and find items of travel clothing that are versatile and can be worn in a variety of situations. For me, the best traveling clothes are those that perform multiple tasks in one!

Examples of this include the humble vest – it can be worn to the beach in all its glory, it can be worn under a shirt on a night on the tiles, and it can be used as a base layer when things get a bit nippy. Other examples are dark coloured, zip-to-shorts trekking pants – you can wear them to trek, they can *almost* pass for smart, and you can zip them down to shorts and show off your calves. You get the concept right?

The next tip is to pay attention to materials and fabrics . You may be forced to wear your items more than you usually would and washing them may be a struggle. Therefore, look for fabrics that are quick drying so you can cheekily wash them in a hurry, and also look for anti-odour technology in case you end up having to wear the same socks for days on end. Anti-crease fabrics that don’t need to be ironed are also pretty useful too.

Look for light, compact items as much as possible. Jeans will only roll up so much but linen pants will squeeze into even a backpacks side pocket. If you need to pack a winter jacket , then consider investing in a specialist item such as Rab Goose Down. They pack in some serious warmth but pack down so that it will even fit inside a daypack – of course, such hi-tech gear does come with a hefty price tag.

All The Travel Clothes You Will Ever Need

Now let’s get down to specifics. Use this post for ideas, inspiration and also a checklist to help you pack for your trip.

It’s worth keeping travel clothes with sustainability in mind, too. You probably already own some of these clothes but others, you may not.

So, let’s get into the action! Well, sort of, before we get into the list of the best travel clothes, let’s have a look at some bags first.

REI is one of America’s biggest and most-loved outdoor gear retailers.

Now, for just $30, get a lifetime membership that entitles you to 10% OFF on most items, access to their trade-in scheme and discount rentals .

Nomatic 40L Travel Pack

Firstly, all of these lovely new travel clothes you’re about to buy are gonna need a bag to live inside right? Maybe you already have your luggage sorted but if you don’t, then we recommend checking out the Nomatic Travel Pack.

With the Nomatic, You get loads of space with its roomy 40L interior plus plenty of smart pockets and compartments that let you pack in so much more than you would expect. There are separate compartments for tech accessories, shoes, a water bottle, underwear and socks. Oh, it also comes with a hanging mesh laundry basket to keep your dirty travel clothes away from the rest of your contents.

The team really love these Nomatic bags and have found them to be super comfortable and offer a great amount of room for how compact they feel. The 40l of storage offered them a sweet spot between being able to fit in everything needed for a backpacking trip whilst still being small enough for carry-on travel. They also love the robust material as well as the levels or internal organisation.

If you want to know, you can read our Nomatic Travel Pack review or instead just check it out on the Nomatic site.

Osprey Daylite

Whilst the Nomatic is the ideal luggage option, it is way too big to use as a daypack. The Osprey Daylite on the other hand, is perhaps the perfect daypack. At 18 liters, it’s the perfect size for trips to the beach, city tours or day hikes mixing decent storage capacity with lightness.

There are plenty of internal pockets and pouches designed to hold keys, phones or even cigarettes as well as a quick access side pocket for water bottles. At $65, it’s a bit of a bargain and comes with the Osprey All Mighty Guarantee.

Aesthetically, the daylite is also pretty easy on the eye and can be worn in both outdoor and urban settings. 

For the team members wanting a versatile and comfortable bag for everyday use, the Daylite offered the perfect solution. They love that this bag is lightweight, looks cool and offers something that works well for city travel as well as hiking. They also felt it was a great size for packing in day to day essentials without getting too heavy and the panelling on the shoulders and back are great for warm weather conditions.

Kodiak Leather Purse

This one is primarily for the ladies (although no one’s judging anybody here) who want a decent travel purse. Made from lush leather, this beautiful, stylish day purse is another high quality bag from Kodiak who have become one of our favorite brands of late.

This purse is ideal to use as an airport bag and will fit your passport and travel documents perfectly. It’s also great to use as a dressed-up bag to take on nights out whether it’s a slap-up meal, cocktails or a full-blown beach party.

Of course, this is not really that useful as a daypack if you’re going hiking or if you have a lot of stuff to carry. However, the trick to successful travel packing is to pack plenty of practical items and a few luxury items for “best” use.

Many of our team love to keep their most valuable items close by, especially when transiting. Having an additional purse means things like passports, wallets and even hard drives and compact cameras can be kept on the body whilst on a night bus or plane ride. They also love that this doubles as a going out back ticking that all-important box of versatility!

When packing travel clothes, our tip is to bring vests, vests and more vests. Vests are such a wonderfully versatile item – you can wear them in all their glory (and show those guns off), “dress them up” by putting an open shirt over them or you simply use them as a base layer in case of cold nights. Oh, and they are ideal for sleeping in!

You can get vests pretty much anyway. Most high-street fashion chains offer vests for around $10 per pop or even x 2 for $12. Or, you can buy nice, pretty ones with art prints or psychedelic designs on them.

I usually make sure I bring at least one specialist outdoor vest made from breathable, quick-drying, odour-resistant fabric too.

What can I say, our team are a sexy bunch and they love to get those guns out! Who can blame them?

Technical T-Shirts

You already have t-shirts right? I don’t need to tell you why these are necessary or where to buy them. All I will say is avoid heavy fabrics and avoid t-shirts that are tight otherwise you will sweat your armpits off the very minute you step out of the plane.

One tip is to bring at least one sports-style t-shirt whether it’s a football (soccer) shirt or a trekking t-shirt. These are useful as they tend to be breathable and quick drying. This one from Black Diamond is a great example of one of the best travel tops on the market.

Our team really loves these shirts because firstly, they weigh so much less than traditional cotton t-shirts meaning the save on weight. But they also find that they are much more versatile for backpacking trips as they work well for both time spent exploring a new city and hiking in sweaty conditions. The shirts are also good to use a baselayer with a thicker t-shirt for when extra warmth is required and it’s something our team does often.

I usually travel with 1 or 2 shirts, they are definitely good travel clothes for any type of trip. They are a great versatile item as they can be dressed up or dressed down – you can wear them to go for cocktails or to hit the beach. Ideally, try to choose shirts made from light materials and try to choose shirts that look good both buttoned up, and unbuttoned over a vest – this offers you some variety.

I usually make a point of wearing a shirt whenever I go to the airport or have any kind of encounter with authority; looking presentable just seems to make them look a bit more favourably on you.

Another tip is to pick up at least one technical, breathable, quick-drying shirt as these come in useful for jungle treks.

As we’ve mentioned above, our team are all about versatility and they just love the many varied uses shirts have. They often tend to prefer long sleeve tops for hiking through jungles and other bug-infested environments and when combined with a technical t-shirt above it gives them a mega adaptable clothing set up.

Tactical Pants

Choosing the right legwear to pack for travels can be quite tough. In my normal life, I usually live in jeans and yet they are often just not suitable to take on my travels. Firstly, denim jeans tend to feel a bit sweaty once the temperature passes 20 degrees (Celsius) and then of course, if you wear jeans to go on a hike they can seriously chafe.

This is where tactical, trekking pants come in. They are made from breathable fabrics, tend to be a bit looser in the fit and are therefore perfect for wearing in weather climes. The downside is that they can look a bit nerdy and you may end up feeling out of place in cosmopolitan cities. The trick is to shop around until you find a pair that mixes practicality with a style you are happy with.

Bonus points if you can find a pair that zip off into shorts – it’s like a 2 for 1! There are loads of different brands out there making travel and trekking pants but to get you started, check these out from REI.

Zip-offs might not be the sexiest piece of gear, but our team swear by them. Again, versatility is the name of the game and when hiking in jungles full of god knows what, ya’ll want to protect your legs! Then again, at the end of said hike when you end up on the beach and want to soak your beaten feet, zip those bad boys off and enjoy. Boom! Whose sexy now!?

Shorts – Multiple Pairs

For some strange reason I used to be embarrassed to wear shorts which is weird as my hairy legs are a thing of beauty. Anyway, I am over that hang up now and tend to wear shorts most days when I go traveling.

I recommend bringing several pairs of shorts with you. If you have space in your luggage, then go for a pair of “beach”/Bermuda shorts, some more stylish denim/chino shorts as well as a pair of tactical/military cargo shorts with loads of pockets – these are great for trekking, cycling and general adventuring.

If you need some advice on choosing the perfect cargo-style shorts, then start with these from REI. They are water resistant, quick drying and have plenty of pockets making them ideal for backpacking and traveling.

Our team love a good pair of shorts it has to be said. Most of us spend a lot of time in hot weather climates so they’re our day-to-day wear. Our team in particular love these cargo shorts because not only are they below the knee (great for temples etc) but they offer increased functionality when it comes to carrying accessories without the need for a bag.

Harem Pants

Perhaps the quintessential backpacker item, you can’t NOT own a pair of harem pants if you are serious about backpacking! These are great to wear on those hot, tropical nights, for lounging around your hostel and yes, for Yoga class. 

Yes, they are cool travel clothes. However, my advice is NOT to wear them to the airport, when getting visa extensions or for any other encounter with authority – on these occasions, always make some effort to dress a bit smarter.

You can generally find harem pants everywhere in Thailand, India or Ibiza. Or you can check out this rather delectable pair from One Tribe at Amazon.

Fun fact, every single member of our team who has visited Thailand has been spotted walking down Khao San Road in a pair of these bad boys … even if they deny it!

Looking for a way to keep your pants up and keep your money safe?! Well let me introduce to you the money belt!

Money belts are a traveler’s best friend. They are quite simply belts with a hidden pouch where you can discreetly stash bank notes. Travellers are sometimes the targets of both pickpockets and violent muggers and many a wallet has been lost to the ne’er do wells of backpackistan.

Our team never leaves the house without one of these strapped around their waist! They have really gotten them out of some sticky situations in the past when having a hidden, or most commonly, forgotten about until the point of desperation, 100-dollar bill is a life saver!

Protect your cash by investing in this epic money belt .

Do You Want to Travel FOREVER??

Pop your email in below to get a FREE copy of ‘How to Travel the World on $10 a Day!’.

Rab Lightweight Down Jacket

No matter where in the world you are going, you will need some kind of jacket. Even if you are headed out to the tropics, it can still get cool at night and seriously frigid if you climb any mountains. At the very least, it will be useful to have a jacket with you when you arrive back home in Seattle/London/Paris on a cold morning.

The kind of jacket you need will depend on where you are going and when. This Down Jacket by Rab is excellent for fending off cold temperatures. Goose down is like magic and will keep you body warm and cosy even in near freezing temperatures. As such, this jacket is ideal for traveling in spring, autumn or if you are headed to the mountains.

It also packs down to a fraction of its size meaning it will sit quietly in your luggage and hardly take up any room at all.

It does have a hood and offers some water resistance in case of rain. However, if you need a proper, full on rain jacket, check out our next suggestion.

Our team always carry a lightweight and compact down jacket on any backpacking trip, even to Southeast Asia! They swear by this Rab jacket as it seems to hit the sweet spot between offering a good level of warmth, especially when layered, whilst being super packable.

Arc’teryx Beta Lt Jacket

When it rains in the tropics, it really rains. Whether you are traveling around India in monsoon, or simply get unlucky in Ecuador, it usually pays to have a proper, waterproof jacket with you when you hit the road.

We have tried a fuck ton of water proof jackets over the years and this is by far the best one we have tried. The Arc’teryx Beta weighs just 300 g / 10.6 oz, making it one of the lightest pieces of performance clothing in your backpack – it packs down to the size of a large grapefruit and definitely weighs less than one. It’s fully waterproof and will withstand a hell of a beating from the rain gods whilst you stay dry. 

Arc’teryx gear is also some of the most stylish gear in the outdoor space. It is also, amongst the most expensive gear in the outdoor space too.

Again, the team never leaves the house without a good waterproof jacket and no matter where their trips take them. They’ve tried a bunch of different jackets out over the years but feel the quality of the Arc’teryx Beta combined with its unbeatable weight makes it a winner for backpacking.

Converse All Stars

Choosing the right footwear to pack for your travels is not always straightforward. Shoes are kind of a bulky item in your luggage so you want to bring as few pairs as possible but you also need footwear for a whole number of situations. Whilst many backpackers tend to spend a lot of time wearing flip-flops (thongs) these are most definitely not appropriate for all occasions.

Converse All Stars, are a bit of a multi-tool kind of footwear. You can wear them for a night on the town and you can do moderate difficulty treks with them. Because they are made from light canvas material, they are breathable enough to wear even in tropical climes so your feet won’t get too sweaty.

Whether you go for the hi-tops or the regular pump style is a matter of preference – both are good.

Our team love Converse in particular because the canvas upper of the shoe is easily folded over so it takes up hardly any room in their bags. They also like that converse can be worn for everyday travelling but can also look decent enough for a night out too.

Salomon X Ultra 3 Low Aero Shoes

If you intend on doing some proper trekking or heading to the mountains, then you need to think about bringing some proper technical footwear. Walking boots are (literally) made for walking but they are not always ideal for backpacking as they are big and chunky and can eat up precious room in your luggage. 

Fortunately, these Saloman X walking and hiking shoes offer much of the support and protection of walking boots but are a bit smaller and lighter meaning they will snuggle nicely in your backpack.

For the team they always try to travel with a good pair of walking shoes (not boots) on their trips. This means that they are always prepared should they want to go on a hike. They love the Saloman X in particular as they are light and comfortable to wear walking around a city day to day too and don’t make their backpacks too heavy.

Sandals or OluKai ‘Ohana Flip-Flops

Sandals and flip flops are the preferred travel footwear of many backpackers. They are cheap, airy and easy to kick off when you hit the beach making them the obvious choice for many. They also slot into backpacks very easily taking up hardly any space whatsoever.

However, thongs are not suitable for all occasions. Remember that they offer no protection for your feet and many travelers have stubbed or broken their toes on uneven pavements whilst wearing them. Also, if you wear thongs to ride a motorbike or scooter, please be extra careful where you put your feet.

If you’re wanting a good mix between lightweight and durable, we would suggest you check out Vivobarefoot’s line of boots and shoes . They do a great job of freeing up your feet and being relatively breathable, so if you’re not too keen on sandals, they might be a good option for you.

My advice is to bring a good pair of shoes or sneakers and wear flip-flops only for the beach. You can find flip flops pretty much everywhere but if you want a good pair that won’t fall to pieces after a week, then check out this pair by Olu’kai.

Standard flip flops might be the backpacker sandal of choice, but our team prefer the extra support these offer with their cross-over strapping and adjustable back. It means that if they’re out and about and the terrain does turn a little more challenging, then they can simply summon their inner mountain goat and crack on!

Laundry Wash Bag

At some point your travel clothes will get smelly and dirty. When this happens, try to avoid storing them with your clean clothes as the odours will spread. The solution is simple enough, pack a travel laundry bag – you throw your dirty stuff in it and when it’s full, you take it to the laundry.

You may even want to consider buying a travel wash bag – a water tight, rubber laundry bag which you use to actually wash your clothes inside simply by adding detergent and shaking it about. Obviously the standard of washing you get isn’t the same as what you get from a machine, but it is quick, cheap and very ecological.

Over the years we have sampled many laundry bags and wash bags and this one by Scrubba has become our favourite.

It might seem like a simple enough thing, but you’d be surprised how many laundry bags our team have been through before settling on this one! Others on the market rip easily, get stinky themselves or leak their stank right through their porous material! This bag on the other hand not only solves those issues but offers a great place to actually wash your undies too!

Odour Resistant Underwear

Never leave home without good travel underwear . Socks and underpants are the foundations upon which all empires are built and I suggest bringing at least one full week’s supply of underwear with you.

When you’re traveling, underwear tends to get seriously sweaty and you may even sometimes be forced to live in it for days on end. To countenance the sheer griminess, bag yourself some breathable, odour-resistant underwear.

Now we’re talking! The team are big fans of these keks and they wouldn’t go anywhere without them! So, next time you look at a picture of one of us… well, use your imagination! Once they switched from plain old cotton to these technical undies, they’ve never looked back!

Sunglasses by Abaco

So yes Sunglasses can be picked up for a couple of dollars on pretty much every roadside in Southeast Asia. However, these are almost always low-quality items that offer no protection from the sun, can actually cause eyesight problems and more often than not will break within a week or so.

Instead, we suggest picking up a pair of lovely travel sunglasses by Abaco Polarized. They offer proper UV protection , are reliably built and they look stylish as hell.

The team felt these glasses hit the right balance between being stylish, protective and not overly expensive too. They are also super durable too which for our clumsy gang is a real bonus!

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

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

How We Tested The Best Travel Clothes

There is no perfect or exact science when it comes to testing out travel and outdoor gear. When it comes to the best travel clothes, however, we’ve got heaps of experience over the years with various different bits of gear on various trips.

Of course, the best clothing for travel is a subjective matter, but we’ve tried a lot of shiz out, so we think we’re well equipt to give you a few pointers! In terms of testing, we were sure to give each item a proper test drive and pay close attention to things like seam stitching, quality of materials, breathability, weight, packability, comfort, fit and of course style!

We also looked at how well each piece of gear fulfils its primary purpose. For example, so if we’re testing out a waterproof jacket, then we’re going to be rating it on how well it keeps out the rain! You get the idea! Finally, we looked at the cost of each item. More expensive gear was treated more harshly than cheaper items that were given a few more passes.

FAQ about the Best Travel Clothes

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

What clothing is considered comfortable for travel?

Breathable, loose fitting clothes are ideal for travel, unless you’re in cold regions. Then having warm clothes and multiple layers is a must.

How do I find the right travel clothes?

Keep these key features in mind: 1. Versatility 2. Material 3. Fit 4. Price

How can you wash your clothes while travelling?

Consider purchasing a Laundry Wash Bag – a water tight, rubber laundry bag which you use to actually wash your clothes inside simply by adding detergent and shaking it about.

How do you look chic when traveling?

Before you start travelling, look for clothes that are versatile. Having a sleek black pair of hiking chinos can also be worn to a city event. Think: plain colors, good fit and hidden functionality.

Our GREATEST Travel Secrets…

Pop your email here & get the original Broke Backpacker Bible for FREE.

Final Thoughts on Travel Clothes

Well that’s all for now. We hope that by now you have some idea of what travel clothes to take on your next trip. Did you find this guide useful? Did we perhaps miss anything? Let us know in the comments below.

See you on the road… hopefully sporting some great travel clothes!

Want a more specific guide? Have a look at our dedicated backpacking packing list next!

Aiden Freeborn

Share or save this post

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

• Travel Clothes

The Best Travel Clothing for Men and Women

Published October 10, 2019

Written by:

Shawn Forno

If you want to learn about budget travel, minimalist carry on packing, or how to travel (and even live and...

Laura Lopuch

Laura’s first trip was when she was 3 months old, instilling an insatiable wanderlust. She hasn’t stopped traveling, or writing...

Megan Lee likes to joke that she majored in study abroad in college. Living in the Bay Area, she earned...

Jessie Beck

Jessie is a writer, editor, and content marketer who covers travel gear and adventure travel. She’s called many places home...

Jenn Sutherland-Miller

Jenn raised 4 children while traveling full-time for more than a decade– it’s called worldschooling and it’s awesome. Jenn has...

The Tortuga Promise

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

Table of Contents

Most people are urban travelers and don’t need a whole separate wardrobe just for traveling. What you really need to travel light and travel well, is a carefully chosen  capsule wardrobe  of clothing that is versatile, flexible, layers seamlessly, and are good quality. 

Start With Choosing the Right Bag

A capsule wardrobe won’t go far without the right bag to pack it in. Choose a  travel backpack  that’s carry-on-sized like the  Tortuga Travel Backpack . The Travel Backpack fits a week’s worth of clothes, making it ideal for traveling with a capsule wardrobe.

Best Travel Clothes To Pack

If you’re looking to build out your travel wardrobe with good quality pieces that will go the distance, here are some of the best picks in each category, tested by travelers and worth the investment.

• Best Travel Jackets
• Best Travel Blazers
• Best Travel T-Shirts
• Best Travel Vests
• Best Plus Size Travel Clothes
• Best Travel Shoes
• Best Packable Excercise Shoes
• Best Travel Flip Flops
• Best Travel Socks
• Best Compression Socks
• Best Travel Jeans
• Best Travel Pants
• Best Travel Shorts
• Best Travel Underwear

Winter Travel Clothing

Packing light for winter trips can be harder when you’ll need heavier clothes, more layers, and extra winter accessories. Just because you need a coat and hat doesn’t mean you have to check a bag.

• Best Boots for Travel
• Best Packable Puffer Jackets
• Best Travel Gloves
• Best Travel Scarfs
• Best Travel Sweaters
• Best Travel Hoodies
• Winter Packing List

Women’s Travel Clothing

Ladies, when we travel, we need clothes that can do  so much more than look good on us . We want pants with four-way stretch for optimal airplane comfort. We want odor-resistant and sweat-wicking fabric for warm-weather adventures in AC-sparse corners of the globe. We want clothes that  won’t wrinkle in our luggage , or fall apart on day 10 of a round the world adventure.

Below are our favorite places to find travel clothing for women –whatever your style may be.

• Best Women’s Travel Brands
• Women’s Guide to Packing Light
• Best Travel Dresses
• Best Travel Leggings
• Best Travel Skirts

Travel Clothing Tips

Why is it that some people bring multiple checked bags while others pack everything in a  personal item  for the same trip? They probably don’t have different needs they just needs some tips for packing on a trip.

• How to Step Down to Carry On Luggage Only
• How to Build a Travel Capsule Wardrobe
• How to Pack Clothes So They Don’t Wrinkle
• How to Roll Clothes for Packing
• How to Keep Your Luggage and Clothes From Stinking
• How to Layer Your Clothes for Traveling
• How to Hand Wash Clothes
• Waterproof vs. Water Resistant: A Traveler’s Guide to Rain Gear
• Best Quick-Dry Fabrics for Travel
• Merino Wool Clothing for Travel

Packing Resources

• Packing List for Every Trip
• List of Travel Packing Tips
• Packing 101: How to Pack for a Flight
• How to Pack a Backpack for Travel
• Best Travel Gear for Your Next Big Trip

Related Articles

The Best Travel Gloves for Winter Adventures

The Best Travel Jeans for Men and Women: A Buyer’s Guide

Tortuga travel backpack pro $350.

Max Carry On Size

If you want to learn about budget travel, minimalist carry on packing, or how to travel (and even live and work) in dozens of countries all over the world, Shawn is your guy. Shawn is not a New York Times bestselling travel author, but he is a full-time freelance blogger, copywriter, and content manager and is also a published photographer. He likes to rock climb, trek, surf, ride his bike, and read a bunch of sci-fi books.

Read more from Shawn

Laura’s first trip was when she was 3 months old, instilling an insatiable wanderlust. She hasn’t stopped traveling, or writing about it. As an expert in carry on travel, she’s flown on over 100 flights with only a carry on bag. Even on trips with her husband and kids.

She believes travel is the great educator — and vital to our humanity.

Read more from Laura

Megan Lee likes to joke that she majored in study abroad in college. Living in the Bay Area, she earned her chops as a writer, digital marketer, and urban traveler.

She’s visited 40+ countries, and also writes for numerous travel publications.

Read more from Megan

Jessie is a writer, editor, and content marketer who covers travel gear and adventure travel. She’s called many places home and traveled to 45+ countries.

She now lives in San Francisco with her husband where she splits her time between traveling, adventuring outdoors, and cooking (okay, eating).

Read more from Jessie

Find the perfect pack for your next trip

Take Our Bag Finder Quiz To Find
The Perfect Bag For Your Next Trip

Bring everything you need without checking a bag.

13 Best Travel Backpacks in 2024, Tested by Our Gear Experts

Featuring brands like Cotopaxi, Peak Design, Nanuk, and more.

Our product picks are editor-tested, expert-approved. We may earn a commission through links on our site. Why Trust Us?

Most Versatile Travel Backpack

Matador seg45 travel pack.

Best Lightweight Travel Backpack

Patagonia black hole pack 32l.

Most Comfortable Travel Backpack

Cotopaxi allpa 35 l travel pack.

Best Travel Backpack for Gear Heads

Nanuk n-pvd 30l travel backpack.

Most Balanced Travel Backpack

Peak design travel backpack 30l.

Best Travel Backpack for Active Travelers

Cor surf carry-on travel backpack bundle.

Best Travel Backpack for Long-Haul Nomads

Nomatic 40l convertible travel backpack/duffel.

Best Travel Backpack for Minimalists

Camelbak a.t.p. 26 backpack.

Best Travel Backpack Under $60

Matein travel backpack 40l.

Best Rugged Travel Backpack

Yeti crossroads 35l backpack.

Travel backpacks are a versatile, easy-to-carry luggage pick if you're trying to pack as smart and fast as possible. A travel backpack is also a great choice if you want to bring a bag with you on the plane (instead of a formal carry-on suitcase) to go with a checked piece of luggage. Unlike a regular backpack, a good travel backpack is going to offer a little more size and space (usually between 30 to 40 liters). Most travel backpacks are made to hold at least a few outfits, plus all your electronics and travel gadgets . The generous space helps carry an entire weekend's (or week's) worth of clothes. It can also hold all your flight essentials: your hoodie , plane shoes (great for long flights), travel pillow , headphones , and more.

If you believe you can only carry a significant amount of belongings via a roller bag or duffel bag , think again. All of our travel backpack picks below offer optimized storage with comfortable straps and friendly designs that make navigating your environments that much easier. Ready to see what's out there? Let's dive into the best travel backpacks worth buying in 2024.

Best Luggage Brands on Amazon | Best Luggage Trackers | Best AirTag Wallets | Best Sling Bags

Matador already makes some of the world's coolest, most clever travel gear. Its SEG45 Travel Backpack is no exception. The clamshell-style zipper opens to provide full access to the pocket-free interior. So you can stash everything inside the open-layout interior like a duffel bag (the included carry strap allows for carrying like a traditional duffel, too) if you're a free-wheelin, "I don't need no pockets" kind of guy.

The other option is to pack this bag using the five front zippered pockets, each with a slightly different capacity (together, they total 45 liters). So, for example, you can stash smaller items like your passport, headphones, and snacks in the small top pocket. Larger electronics can go toward the bottom. You get the gist.

There's also a zippered, padded laptop sleeve at the rear, so it sits directly against your back when worn like a traditional backpack. Padded shoulder straps allow for comfortable all-day carry, and they can be tucked away when not in use. An external water bottle pouch and a reinforced water-resistant bottom round out the great features.

Read more: Best Packable Down Jackets

The Black Hole Pack is a tried-and-true favorite among Patagonia fans due to its long-term durability and smart compartment design. The pack holds up to 32L, which is sizable enough for traveling but also small enough for everyday use (if you want even smaller, you can elect to get the bag in a 26L size).

Patagonia designed an external zip-down laptop sleeve that sits on the inside (meaning your laptop would be resting directly against your back) and helps create more open space. Front and top stash pockets are added for storing small goods in streamlined ways that do not impede on the interior storage either.

Now, you do sacrifice a bit of space by opting for the Black Hole Pack instead of a 40L travel backpack pack, but the way Patagonia designs this bag creates an optimized way of fitting clothes, shoes, and more without being too much of a burden to carry. If you're looking for a bag you can use to pair with a checked bag, or if you're looking for a bag that can pull double duty for everyday and outdoor use, then you won't find anything more suitable.

Read more: Best Men's Clothing Brands

Cotopaxi's Allpa is a frequent traveler favorite due to its strong, lightweight material blend of TPU-coated 1,000D polyester and 840D ballistic nylon paneling. Travelers also love this travel backpack due to its booklet opening (like many popular suitcases) and secret laptop compartment on the inside back of the backpack (the laptop sits on your back when carrying). In terms of carrying, the bag has four grab handles so you can move it off your shoulders when you get tired. And to add durability and other cargo add-on options, it comes fitted with YKK zippers, carabiner lash loops, and tuck-away straps.

The Allpa is a do-it-all pack for those who truly want to use their travel backpack as their only bag on the road. The cool part is the Allpa comes in fun colors that are easy to spot on the baggage carousel (assuming you check it ... but you won't because you're better than that).

Read more: Waterproof Hiking Gear

Traveling with serious electronics like digital cameras, lenses, action cameras, tablets, and drones can be nerve-wracking. You want luggage or a backpack that can protect everything for those long-haul journeys. Nanuk's N-PVD line of travel backpacks is purpose-built for just that.

Every bag in the line-up features a well-padded interior that can be reconfigured to accommodate whatever you're hauling. Every removable velcro pad can be flipped, turned, and moved around inside the interior so you can Tetris all your most valuable electronics to fit and protect everything exactly how you want. There's also a padded laptop sleeve and a bonus top pocket that's perfect for smaller essentials you want to keep within easy reach.

"I used the 18L model as my only camera bag on a recent trip to Antarctica," said MH gear writer Mike Richard. "I was able to pack my digital camera, a couple of lenses, a 15" laptop, my GoPro equipment, and a bunch of other must-haves, like snacks and my passport, with room to spare. Plus, the recycled polyester shell held up to daily Zodiac rides, pounding rain, and penguin encounters like a champ!"

Read more: Cool Tech Gadgets

We admit to fanboy'ing over Peak Design, as it seems every product the company reinvents turns to gold. We love the incognito look and simplicity of Peak Design's Travel Backpack. Aside from a top stash pocket, the bag relies on a single zipper that opens out the entire bag. From there, you can add in your clothes and shoes without packing cubes , or you can grab any of Peak Design's matching packing cubes and load in your clothes, electronics and gear.

The inner compartment also holds a padded laptop sleeve that keeps your device tightly secured. Our favorite feature of this travel backpack is the theft-proof zippers, which can be looped into each other when closed and help deter pick-pocket thieves from quickly trying to open up your bag when in crowds.

As far as construction materials, Peak Design went with 100% recycled 400D nylon canvas thanks to its supreme water and abrasion resistance. In terms of comfort, padded shoulder pads, a generous adjustable strap length, and an optional hip belt accessory help limit fatigue, so you can power through long travel days.

The most active travelers demand a lot of their luggage. In most cases, they want their bags and backpacks to pull double duty: They need them to transport everything from A to B on the plane, then haul all their gear essentials around on the beach, the trail, or the slopes. That's where COR Surf's Carry-On Travel Backpack Bundle comes in. The 40L model (it's available in 28L and 40L flavors as well) is roughly the size of a carry-on but way more durable and versatile.

The design opens wide like a traditional suitcase for easy access to everything. This bundle includes a water-resistant toiletry bag and a set of compression cubes to wrangle your clothes, shoes, electronics, and souvenirs on the way home.

The outside is built for all-day wear with wide, padded shoulder straps and a chest strap to help distribute heavier loads. It's built with double stitching all around, so it's ready to go the distance wherever you travel.

We especially like that it's available in a handful of colors, so you can color coordinate with your personal traveler's vibe (if that's your thing). Plus, it's crazy affordable at around $125 on sale.

In the "new era" of next-gen travel backpacks we're currently living in, Nomatic was one of the OG brands to seriously reinvent the game. Its convertible travel bags are still some of our go-to favorites. The 40L option is sized like a traditional carry-on but carries like a duffel or travel backpack. With clever built-in straps, it transitions seamlessly between either carry method, so it's comfy to tote around even on your longest travel days.

It boasts 20 clever features, all targeting the needs of modern nomads. There are plenty of compartments to organize your clothes, shoes, tech, and other gear. A water bottle pocket helps you stay hydrated, and the included laundry bag helps keep your funky clothes quarantined away from your clean threads. It's all wrapped in a rugged, water-resistant tarpaulin material that's vegan-friendly and 100% synthetic.

If you're looking for something a little more streamlined, Nomatic's 30L model has all of the same features in a more compact footprint.

If you're an ultra-minimalist traveler or are just looking for a compact, rugged bag to supplement your carry-on, CamelBak's A.T.P. is just the trick. The 26-liter model is perfectly sized for hauling everything you need and nothing you don't. (It's also available as a smaller, cheaper 20-liter model )

In stark black or pure, undyed white, the exterior aesthetic is about as clean and streamlined as it gets. There are no extraneous pockets or design flourishes—this bag is all business. The interior is accessible either via the top flap (like a traditional top-loading hiking backpack) or through a long zipper topped with a snapped "collar" closure of sorts that almost resembles a zip-up hoodie. It makes accessing the inside way easier than most travel backpacks. The open-concept interior includes a laptop pocket, a water bottle pocket, and several small drop pockets for smaller travel essentials. Outside, compression straps allow you to cinch it all down to the exact size you need, so there's never any wasted space.

One of our favorite features of this travel backpack is the ultra-green manufacturing process. CamelBak touts this as its "first pack to ever earn the highest rating on our sustainability scale. The A.T.P. is made from 100% recycled CORDURA re/cor and creates half the greenhouse gas emissions produced in traditional manufacturing processes." Nice!

Made with water-resistant nylon, this best-selling 40L travel pack promises organization through multiple zippered compartments. Starting from the front of the bag, there are four small zippered pouches, followed by a large zippered compartment for clothes and shoes , and then finished with a laptop sleeve compartment.

At under $60 retail (often less than $40 on sale!), you'd be hard-pressed to find a travel backpack this functional and durable for less. It's true the bag might not have the longest lifespan as others on this list (the zippered compartment design worries us about pockets potentially getting damaged), but in terms of getting solid bang for your buck, it's a great pick.

Yeti brings the design chops from working on the best, most rugged coolers to the world of travel backpacks. The Crossroads 35L is one of the toughest travel backpacks around.

For starters, the outer material of the Crossroads 35L is something you won't see on other travel backpacks. Why? Because Yeti opted for a textured Tuffskin nylon and a strong 700D nylon that's both water and abrasion-resistant. Yeti says it feels more like motorcycle gear, and we agree.

Second, the bag's clamshell opening allows for easy access to the laptop sleeve and for the ability to roll your clothes up and bag them down into the bag tightly. Last is the strength of the zippers, which are waterproof and tough as nails from the outer stash pockets all the way the main compartment zippers.

The only downside some might have is the shoulder pads could be more cushioned, but we found them to provide just enough comfort while stepping through the airport. But, if you're looking for a rugged backpack that's down for whatever, you can't go wrong with this pick.

The North Face Base Camp Duffel - Medium

One of our favorite duffel bags, the North Face Base Camp, also works great as a convertible travel backpack. The straps on the Base Camp might have some of the best paddings you can get, making it that much more comfortable in terms of all-day carry. And as far as materials, the strong 1000D recycled PVC with water-resistant zippers is damn-near-bulletproof, ready to repel any and everything.

Our only gripe about this bag is the interior storage configuration. It doesn't have any special laptop compartments or unique pocket designs: It's a simple, straightforward duffel at the end of the day. But remember, if you ever get tired of carrying this on your back, you can carry it by the hand straps or sling it over your shoulder. So you've got options here.

Read more: Best Dopp Kits

Away F.A.R Convertible Backpack 45L

Talk about a behemoth! Away's F.A.R. Convertible Backpack is equal parts duffel bag and ackpack. It holds a whopping 45L, which makes all the difference if you want to add another pair of shoes or bring home souvenirs you pick up on your travels.

While you don't have a ton of compartments on the inside of this bag, it does have built-in compression straps, which allow you to clamp down your clothes and keep everything condensed. This travel backpack is made from water- and abrasion-resistant polyester that's strong enough to handle pretty much anywhere unless you're planning on getting far off the path (like a hiking or camping trip, or a trip to somewhere less developed).

While the bag can feel a little heavy on your back if packed to the gills, the good news is you can always convert it to duffel carry. You get the best of both worlds here.

Osprey Sojourn Porter 46 Travel Pack

The Porter 46 reminds us a lot of a hiking backpack in looks and in its durable design. It holds a whopping 46 liters, which can be deceiving thanks to the outer clamp-down straps. On the front of the bag is an easy-access laptop sleeve, and on the side are grab handles for briefcase-like carry if your shoulders get tired. If you want to know our favorite features of the backpack, though, it's the U-zip opening design, which allows the user to pack in and access their goods with ease—it's especially easy to get items on the bottom of the bag when the back is laid down and opened.

A couple of qualms include the straps being a bit too narrow, which can cause some discomfort for long travel days. The other is there aren't a lot of stash pockets. So if you like to use those to wrangle your favorite travel essentials, you might want to look for a different backpack design. But if you're looking for a big-time hauler that fits a rugged, traditional hiking backpack design, then this is a solid choice.

Read more: Best Hiking Boots

.css-1c42clk{font-family:Knockout,Knockout-roboto,Knockout-local,Helvetica,Arial,Sans-serif;font-weight:normal;margin-bottom:0.625rem;margin-top:0.625rem;}@media(max-width: 48rem){.css-1c42clk{font-size:3rem;line-height:1;letter-spacing:0.06rem;}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.css-1c42clk{font-size:3.125rem;line-height:1;letter-spacing:0.06rem;}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-1c42clk{font-size:3.75rem;line-height:1;letter-spacing:0.075rem;}}.css-1c42clk b,.css-1c42clk strong{font-family:inherit;font-weight:bold;}.css-1c42clk em,.css-1c42clk i{font-style:italic;font-family:inherit;}.css-1c42clk a{-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;text-decoration-color:#FFF200;text-decoration-thickness:0.19rem;}.css-1c42clk a:hover{color:#D2232E;} Why Trust Us

In order to keep up with new new innovations and product releases, the Men's Health editors and writers are continually testing all of the latest packing tools and accessories to make sure our recommendations reflect the top products within the travel space.

When it comes to travel backpacks, our gear enthusiasts in the office tested a total of 30 different travel backpacks over the past two years. We inspected the bags in office first before taking them out on assignments and vacations. Then, after wear and tear, we accessed the condition of the bag and added in our testing notes. Lastly, we considered what each travel backpack does best by applying them to all the different types of traveler needs—like size, versatility, weight, and more.

Read more: How We Test Products

What to Consider When Shopping for a Travel Backpack

There are a couple of features you want to keep an eye on when shopping for a travel-worthy backpack. Overall, your travel backpack should be lightweight, organized, and suitable for the types of travel you typically take. These are the most important considerations.

As mentioned earlier, a good sweet spot for travel backpack capacity is between 30L and 40L. This amount of space usually allows you to pack a couple of outfits and a pair of shoes or allows you to pack all your airplane essentials. Some of the travel backpacks above go up to 45L. We love the generous capacity, but if you go above this sizing, you might be veering away from carry-on size requirements or you might find a bag packed that fully becomes a little heavy on the shoulders.

TSA Carry-On Approved

Pretty much all travel backpacks are TSA-approved for carry-on use. If you're someone who likes to keep a bag under the seat, you'll want to pay closer attention to the exact dimensions and how your bag looks when it's fully packed. Some airlines—especially ultra-budget carriers—are getting mighty strict on baggage size requirements these days.

Outer Materia ls

The good news about our travel backpack picks above is they're all made with some sort of water-resistant material. Most have abrasion resistance too. Aside from looking for these two qualities, most travel backpacks use nylon or polyester blends. A truly tough bag might don an outer material of 500-denier nylon or higher, which is a material grade that ensures the nylon is strong, water-resistant, and tear-resistant—all great features in a travel backpack.

Packing Organization

Last to consider is your personal packing style. The vast amount of travel backpacks on the market has led us to have all sorts of bag openings and packing configurations. Some have lots of compartments (interior and exterior), while some have a single main compartment and only one stash pocket. Most travel backpacks have openings that help you pack clothes down tightly and allow for easy access if you need to get something at the bottom of the bag. A few common bag opening designs include U-shaped zipper openings, suitcase openings, and clamshell openings. There's no one best design; it's all about what's right for you .

How We Selected the Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

We consulted with Men's Health writers and editors on the best travel backpacks and carry-on backpacks for 2024. Experts, including our gear and commerce editor, John Thompson, and gear expert, Mike Richard, reviewed dozens of packs to evaluate their design, performance, durability, and features. We also considered price point, as some travel backpacks promise a better overall value than others. In the end, we decided on these 13 models as our picks for the best travel backpacks worth buying in 2024.

.css-1fpt53b{height:1.25rem;}@media(max-width: 48rem){.css-1fpt53b{overflow:unset;line-height:1.25rem;}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.css-1fpt53b{line-height:1.25rem;}}.css-1fpt53b:before{background-color:#D2232E;color:#fff;margin-right:0.625rem;width:1.25rem;height:1.25rem;content:'';display:block;} Travel

12 Top Luggage Brands You Can Find on Amazon

The Perfect Luggage for Avoiding Airport Chaos

34 Cool Travel Gadgets That Are Worth Trying Now

7 Travel Hair Dryers, Vetted by Grooming Editors

No One Was Prepared for the Diarrhea Plane

7 Rules of On-The-Road Fitness

You Need These TikTok-Famous Amazon Travel Hacks

These Are The 10 Best Travel Pillows of 2024

Where to Work Out in Texas

The 12 Best Nude Beaches in the World

25 Transformative Trips Every Guy Should Take

Complete Guide: Best Backpacking Outfits

by Melissa Giroux | Last updated Feb 25, 2023 | Budget Travel , Travel Gear , Travel Tips

One of the most challenging parts of preparing for a backpacking trip is packing. It can be confusing to know what to wear backpacking and difficult not to overpack!

Of course, the climates you will encounter on your backpacking trip will determine what you need to take.

Still, there are some fundamental outfits that every backpacker should have in their luggage. 

So, to help reduce the overwhelm of your trip prep, we’ve created the ultimate list of what clothes to wear backpacking.

The following backpacking outfits will come in handy no matter where you are backpacking or for how long.

What To Wear Backpacking

You will need a various range of backpacking outfits as you will most likely be doing different activities.

It’s so important to have the right backpacking essentials before setting off on your trip!

T herefore, you will need backpacking clothing suitable for all situations, such as hiking, camping, traveling, and maybe exploring local cities and towns.

Aside from your daywear, you’ll need to ensure you have the correct type of nightwear and plenty of underwear.

Also, as you’ll be unable to wash your clothes regularly, you should ensure you have plenty of underwear, socks, and t-shirts/baselayers.

The Best Backpacking Outfits For Women

What you need to pack for backpacking can depend on what you want to do on your trip! Will you be hiking a lot or are you solely going to stay in urban areas?

I’ve covered all of the best backpacking outfits for women so packing doesn’t have to be stressful!

1. Traveling Outfit

Whether you’re backpacking in Europe, Asia, or Australia, you will be spending a lot of your time traveling from one place to another.

Most backpackers opt to travel by coach or train to save money, but this normally means the journeys are long.

Therefore, comfort is essential when you’re spending hours on the road, so pack your coziest outfit for those long travel days. My go-to travel outfit consists of:

• Leggings – If I’m in a cold country (or I know the coach will blast the air-con), I opt for fleece-lined leggings like these from Bayleaf . These thermal leggings will keep you warm when the temperature drops. Still, the fabric is also breathable and moisture-wicking if you get too hot. The fleece lining is super comfy, and the 4-way stretch and flat seam make them feel extra comforting. 
• A loose fit top – Opt for soft material like cotton as it will be against your skin. There are plenty of options out there, such as this loose-fit tank top by CRZ YOGA . It is made from Pima cotton to create a super soft, lightweight, breathable, and stretchy feel. 
• Soft Sweater or jumper – Choose a sweater that is soft to the touch and feels comforting. If you are in a reasonably cold country, you can even go for a fleece style like the Yanekop Sherpa Pullover . The fuzzy sherpa fleece material is warm, soft, and so cozy that it feels like you’re snuggling with a fluffy kitty!

2. Hiking Outfit

Most backpacking trips involve a fair amount of hiking and spending time in nature.

Therefore, you should pack outfits to protect you from the sun and bugs and keep you cool and dry.

PSSST. Want to get FREE accommodation in exchange for work?

Here’s what your hiking outfit should consist of:

• A breathable tank top – To prevent overheating, pack a sports top for your hikes and walks. Most of these style tops have good ventilation to release excess heat. For example, the Mippo Workout Top has a stylish yet functional mesh style back to keep you cool. Furthermore, there is a slit in the lower back, which you can keep open for extra breathability or tie-up. 
• Quick-dry stretchy pants – Yoga pants can work well when hiking, but I prefer to wear cargo hiking pants like the ones from MOCOLY instead. You can choose cropped or full length, and they have UPF 50+ sun protection to prevent sunburn. Another invaluable feature of these pants is the adjustable cord locks around the cuffs to stop your legs from being eaten by mosquitoes!  
• A lightweight pullover with sun protection – Even if you’re hiking in the summer, it’s wise to take a lightweight pullover with you. However, make sure you have one with UPF sun protection like this one by Willit . The breathable, lightweight fabric has UPF 50+ protection. It also has a half-zip collar design to stop the back of your neck from getting burnt, plus thumbholes for extra coverage.

3. City/Town Outfit

If you’re going on a mid to long-term backpacking trip, it’s a good idea to pack an outfit for the days you don’t spend in nature.

Whether you’re exploring historical sites, wandering around art galleries, or just taking a leisurely lunch in a cafe, urban outfits are essential backpacking outfits.

• Summer dress – I like to take advantage of these relaxed days by getting out of sportswear and yoga pants. If you’re backpacking in a hot climate, why not pack a lightweight summer dress for your urban activities. I love this ZESICA Ruffle Swing Dress as it’s stylish yet comfortable. It has a loose fit around the bust and hips but a high waistband to show off your figure. 
• 2-piece tracksuit – Of course, if you’re in a colder climate, you’ll want to wrap up more. Jeans may be your first thought, but I personally try to avoid packing denim clothes for backpacking as they can be heavy and bulky. Instead, I opt for a comfy 2-piece like this one from PRETTY GARDEN . It consists of a long-sleeve crewneck pullover and long tracksuit pants in your choice of color. This outfit is casual yet stylish, and you can dress it up or down.

4. Nightwear

The nightclothes to pack for backpacking will depend on a few factors.

For example, if you’re camping, you might want a warmer sleep outfit.

Alternatively, if you’re staying in hostel dorms, you won’t need to wrap up so much. 

• Thermal base layer set – If I expect to camp or sleep somewhere cold on my trip, I will always pack a pair of thermal base layers! I like the sets from Ekouaer as they have microfleece lining to keep you feeling cozy and warm in your tent. They are also very lightweight backpacking clothes as they weigh almost nothing. 
• Comfy loungewear set – When I’m staying in hostels, I tend to sleep in my loungewear as it gives good coverage and means I can go straight from the common room to bed. I like to wear this tie-dye loungewear set from Sidefeel in the summer months as it’s light and breathable. It consists of a loose-fitting v neck short sleeve tee and matching shorts.

5. Footwear

Shoes are an essential part of your backpacking outfits as you will likely be on your feet a lot! 

• Durable hiking boots – If you’re hiking, trekking, or hitchhiking, you will need a decent pair of hiking boots that can hold up against constant use. The JABASIC Women’s Hiking Boots have a mid-top design to protect your ankles, a toe guard, and a non-slip TPR with abrasion resistance. They are water-resistant, and there are tiny holes in the mesh fabric to let your feet breathe. 
• Long-Lasting flip flops – Flip flops come in useful in many places, such as at the campsite, hostel, and beach. Many cheap flip-flops don’t usually make it to the end of your trip without falling apart. However, Havaianas are highly durable and slip-proof. I like the sling-back style as I find they hold your feet in place better than the traditional ones. 

6. Accessories (sunglasses, hat, rain jacket, gloves)

Lastly, when deciding on the clothes to wear backpacking, don’t forget the accessories you may need.

Here are a few things worth bringing with you.

• A packable rain jacket – Rain jackets make one of the most compact and lightweight backpacking clothes. So, even if you’re backpacking in the dry season, it’s still worth taking one. Choose a packable one like this one from JTANIB . You can fold it up into the included pouch and tie it to your daypack for easy access. 
• Waterproof gloves – If you’re backpacking in cold weather, you may want to pack some gloves. These gloves by VEBE are lightweight, waterproof, and windproof! They also have an inner layer of insulated fleece cotton to trap warmth inside.
• Infinity scarf – An infinity scarf is another cold-weather backpacking must-have. The Zero Grid Infinity Scarf will not only keep your neck warm but is a multi-functional travel accessory. It has two hidden zip pockets where you can hide your phone, money, or ID. You can also convert it into a blanket, wrap, or shawl, so it will serve you in whichever way you most need. 

The Best Backpacking Outfits For Men

If you’re stuck trying to figure out what you need for backpacking as a guy, check out these great backpacking outfits for men!

Traveling long-distance on public transport like trains and coaches can be extremely uncomfortable, especially if it is crowded and has minimal leg space.

The clothes you wear also impact your comfort level during your journey, so be sure to pack an outfit that feels soft and comfortable.

Here’s what you should look for:

• Comfy tracksuit bottoms – A classic pair of cotton sweatpants like the Nike NSW Club Pants are ideal for long travel journeys as they are so soft and cozy. The smooth feel they give is thanks to the brushed-back fleece fabric.
• A jersey hoodie – A jersey pullover hoodie is great to have should you get cold along the way. You can match your pants with the Nike NSW Club Pullover Hoodie for a trendy yet comfy vibe. This hoodie’s soft cotton jersey fabric also makes it a comfortable piece of backpacking apparel to sleep in on the road. 
• A loose-fit t-shirt – If it gets stuffy on the train or coach, you’ll need a breathable tee to prevent you from overheating. The Under Armour Tech 2.0 T-Shirt is a good option as it is made from a quick-drying and ultra-soft UA Tech fabric. It will wick up any sweat super fast and features anti-odor technology, making it perfect for traveling through hot countries like Thailand.

It’s essential to have a couple of specific outfits for any hiking, climbing, or sports you might partake in on your trip.

While soft cotton is a good choice for traveling, it’s best to avoid this material for outdoor activities as cotton absorbs moisture and dries slowly.

Instead, look for backpacking outfits that will keep you cool and dry while protecting you from the sun and other elements. 

• A lightweight hoodie – A lightweight hoodie is a valuable piece of backpacking apparel for hiking. It can protect your skin from the sun and keep you warm when you reach a high summit and feel a chill. This thin pullover from Willit is fantastic because it has UPF 50+ sun protection, a hood, and thumbholes. It’s also very lightweight so that it won’t weigh you down, and it is breathable and quick-drying. 
• Hiking pants with UPF protection – When choosing hiking pants, look for UPF protection and cuffed ankles. These two features will keep you safe from the sun and all the bugs out on the trail. These lightweight hiking pants from BALEAF will serve you well, and you can use them for running and sports too. They feature a leg-opening zipper, and the light fabric is quick-drying and water-repellant. 
• Breathable sports tee – Most sports-specific t-shirts are ideal for hiking as they are breathable and moisture-wicking. A t-shirt is preferable as a tank top won’t protect your shoulders from the sun’s harsh rays. Many offer sun protection too, like this one from MOERDENG. As well as rapidly wicking up moisture and dispersing it, it has flatlock seams and printed tags to minimize chafing as you move.

If your backpacking trip will extend to towns or cities, it’s best to pack a couple of casual outfits to wear when you’re not in the wilderness. 

• T-shirt and shorts – A 2-piece t-shirt and shorts like this one from DOINLINE will make a comfy and stylish urban summer outfit. It’s lightweight and breathable and is perfect for beach visits, riverside strolls, or wandering around a new city.
• Sweater and cargo pants – For colder climates, opt for slim-fit cargo pants over jeans as they are less bulky. These slim-fit pants from Hakjay are stylish, stretchy, and lightweight. Pair them with a simple cotton sweater like this one from Tommy Hilfiger for a trendy Autumn, Winter, and Spring vibe.

If you’re staying in hostels, you can generally wear a comfy tee and cotton joggers to bed.

However, if you’re camping in cold temperatures, you will need to give your sleepwear more consideration.

• Thermal top and long johns – It may not look the sexiest, but a high-quality pair of thermal base layers will keep you warm and comfortable if you’re camping in chilly temperatures. Thermajohn sells both long sleeve thermal tops and long johns made from high-performance fleece fabric. The ultra-fine polyester fibers and closely knitted seams retain the heat even when the outside temperature drops. 

It’s essential to look after your feet on the road, and one way to do this is to wear the proper footwear for your activities.

• Solid and sturdy hiking boots – Hiking boots will protect your feet much more than trainers during your trekking and outdoor activities and will last for longer too. Khombu makes high-quality, durable, and lightweight hiking boots that are waterproof too. They have a flexible rubber outsole and no heel, which gives dependable traction and a non-slip grip. They also have a padded collar for ankle support. 
• Durable flip flops – If you’re backpacking through tropical countries, you’ll find flip flops at every beach vendor. However, these are often inferior quality and not only last a short time but can potentially damage your feet too. Therefore, buy a high-quality pair like Havaianas before your trip. They are more likely to last the entire trip and are much better value for money. These rubber sandals are lightweight, no-slip, long-lasting, and heat-resistant.

6. Accessories

Your backpacking clothing is not complete without accessories. Here are a few things you may need for your upcoming adventure.

• UPF Sunglasses – If you plan to trek or partake in lots of outdoor activities, I’d recommend sports sunglasses instead of the regular style. The Hulislem Sports Sunglasses feature an extremely lightweight polycarbonate frame and have UV 400 mirror flash coating to limit the amount of light entering your eyes. 
• Sun hat – Another summer backpacking must-have is a sun hat. This one from Columbia blocks the full spectrum of harmful UV rays and features a mesh vent panel and adjustable chinstrap.
• Beanie hat – If you need protection from the wind rather than the sun, a slouchy beanie hat will come in useful. This winter beanie from OZERO has a thermal knit wool shell and warm polar fleece lining for double the warmth. 

Final Thoughts On Backpacking Outfits

Knowing which clothes to pack for backpacking will not only make your trip preparation less stressful.

But it will also prevent you from lugging around unsuitable clothes and thus, help you travel light.

What’s more, by having the right clothes for backpacking, you won’t need to hunt down forgotten items in an unfamiliar or remote location!

Need some more inspiration? Read one of the following blog posts:

• What to wear for camping
• What to wear for kayaking in spring
• What to wear for hiking in the fall

MY TOP RECOMMENDATIONS

BOOK HOTEL ON BOOKING.COM

BOOK HOSTEL ON HOSTELWORLD

GET YOUR TRAVEL INSURANCE

LEARN HOW TO START A TRAVEL BLOG

LEARN HOW TO VOLUNTEER ABROAD

A Summer Capsule Wardrobe Will Simplify Your Packing Process

By Meaghan Kenny

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Finding reliable clothing staples to rewear again and again helps us all to become more sustainable travelers—and refrain from overpacking. When building a summer travel capsule wardrobe, versatile and comfortable basics are key: Rather than packing a suitcase full of trendy items or statement outfits you'll only wear once, consider investing in basics you can pair with several outfits and wear from day to night. To lay the foundation, we've put together a list of top summer wardrobe essentials, whether you’re headed to a beach vacation in Mexico or are planning to eat your way through Italy . No matter where your upcoming travel plans take you, these are the pieces you’ll be glad you packed. From crisp white button-downs and lightweight linen dresses to walking sandals and packable beach totes, you can count on them to keep your packing list short and your outfit options long.

Below, 13 pieces to build a summer travel capsule wardrobe, with men's and women's styles from brands we love: Everlane, Lululemon, Banana Republic, and more. Keep scrolling to see them all or jump right to your item of choice.

Build your summer capsule wardrobe:

The breathable tank top, the perfect short, the linen pant, the classic button-down, the basic tee, the midi dress, the midi skirt, the exercise dress, the white sneaker, the walking sandal, the comfortable heel, the quality bathing suit, the packable tote.

Hot summer days mean you’ll need a few basic tanks. Ribbed tank tops are always a smart choice—they're both comfortable and flattering. If you want something that looks a little more put together with a pair shorts or a midi skirt, I wear this seamless bodysuit from Amazon constantly (it’s double-lined and I own it in multiple colors). Nike and Lululemon make some of our favorite performance tanks for men—they’re available in a variety of colors, too.

Finding a trusted pair of shorts can feel nearly impossible. We chose options that aren’t too short, so you can avoid unwanted chafing while still keeping cool. High-waisted, light wash options are ideal for hot summer days and pair well with just about any top in your suitcase.

For something a little more breezy, opt for a pair of linen pants. Whether I'm headed to a barbecue or lunch by the pool, I'm always gravitating toward linen in the warmer months. Lightweight, packable, and chic—it's the ultimate summer pant.

Every traveler needs a go-to tee . A basic T-shirt pairs well with almost any pair of shorts, linen pants, or skirt you pack this summer (sometimes I even throw one underneath a sleeveless dress). Cotton tees from Everlane, Skims, True Classic, and Cuts are breathable and lightweight, making them year-round staples for every type of packing list . No matter where I'm headed, whether it's a beach trip in Miami or a cabin getaway in Vermont, I have at least two comfy tees in my weekender .

Along with a plain white tee, I never travel without a button-down —I wear these with denim, as a cover-up by the pool , or over a slip dress at night if it gets a little chilly. For something ultra lightweight, a linen button-down will keep you cool and covered.

One of the most fun items to pack for summer: midi dresses . Staple pieces like this rib tank dress from Buck Mason and Abercrombie's linen blend dress are always smart options, but for something with a little more flare, I’m eyeing colorful picks from Lulus, Farm Rio, and Banana Republic. Whether you’re headed to a dinner party or want to explore a new city in style, these dresses scream summer and are easy to throw on with any pair of sandals.

Equally elegant and comfortable, a midi skirt can be dressed up or down with a pair of low heels, sneakers, or sandals. A skirt like this elevates an otherwise simple look and can be reworn endlessly throughout a trip with any of your favorite tanks, tees, or blouses. We love these chic styles from Free People, Banana Republic, and Cuyana, but for something under $40, Amazon brand The Drop's high-waisted skirt is a great staple.

Ideal for active travelers and especially hot destinations, exercise dresses are supportive enough for hikes and workout classes, while doubling as a cute daytime outfit. I don't always work out on a trip, but when I do, a sporty yet feminine exercise dress is the way to go—I'll wear one for a morning walk and still feel put together enough for breakfast at the hotel and whatever comes next. For practicality and comfort, I love ones that have built-in shorts underneath, like the Outdoor Voices style.

When it comes to essential shoes, every traveler needs a crisp pair of white sneakers . It’s always my most-worn shoe on every trip, especially when there’s a walking tour on the itinerary. Some of our team's favorite comfortable white sneakers come from Nike, Lululemon, and Adidas, with men’s and women’s sizes available for each.

Summer sandals can be a tricky shoe to purchase: You want a pair that can withstand a good amount of walking without causing blisters, but that still leaves you looking put together. These options below from Rothy's, Olukai, Birkenstock, and Teva can take you from the pool to lunch to sightseeing around town. Comfortable, versatile, and packable, a good walking sandal is simply a must.

For those summer nights when you need something a little more elevated than your favorite pair of sandals, a comfortable heel is a must-have. Black, ivory, or nude heels match just about any midi dress you toss in your carry-on . The height of these heels is just right—high enough to wear to any destination weddings or special events you're attending, but low enough to actually dance the night away in. Bonus points for block heels and mules—both styles are easier to walk in and provide decent stability on uneven ground.

No matter where I’m headed—beach vacation or not—I always pack a bathing suit . You can't go wrong with a supportive one-piece or high-waisted set. Some of our favorite men's swim trunks are from Todd Snyder and Lacoste, but we have plenty more options where that came from.

A packable tote bag that you can bring to the beach, shopping, or to the hotel pool will always come in handy. When I'm low on suitcase space, I prefer one that can lay completely flat—like Rothy's Lightweight Tote. These roomy, beachy bags all fit a day's worth of essentials, including a beach towel , water bottle, and lots of sunscreen .

• Order Status
• Shipping & Delivery
• Order Cancellation
• Size Charts
• Promotions & Discounts
• Product Advice
• Send Us Feedback

Popular Search Terms

• Air Force 1

Top Suggestions

What To Wear to the Airport: 7 Travel Outfit Essentials

Styling tips.

From cozy sweats and versatile tops to iconic sneakers, your travel wardrobe is about to get an upgrade.

Planning your airport outfit is a crucial step in travel preparations. Travel outfits aren’t just about making a style statement — prioritizing comfort and function is key, too. Navigating the airport terminal, waiting in lines, and sitting for extended periods call for cozy clothing items.

The best travel outfit ideas revolve around ease and adaptability. Whether you’re trying to catch an early morning flight or prepare for a lengthy international journey, your travel outfit needs to be versatile enough to adapt from the chilly airplane cabin to the warmer climates of your destination.

Airport outfit ideas marry comfort with style, making athleisure outfits the ultimate go-to. For context, adaptable athleisure pieces include leggings and joggers, tops and T-shirts you can layer and sweaters that easily come on and off.

Of course, comfortable footwear you can slip in and out of is the ultimate finishing touch (hello, Nike Air Force 1s). Likewise, utilitarian bags help make packing and security checkpoints a breeze.

Whether they are for a quick business trip or a long-awaited getaway, the airport outfits ahead ensure you’re well-prepared and comfy for whatever amount of time you spend traveling — from departures to arrivals.

Your Travel Outfits Need These 7 Essential Clothing Staples

Slip into cozy sweats.

Navigating the airport can sometimes feel like a sport in itself. That’s why a pair of joggers or sweatpants are a reliable go-to. They offer maximum comfort and flexibility for long walks to your gate or unexpected dashes to make a connection. Style these with a form-fitting tank or T-shirt and layer with an oversized jacket to balance out the look. A chain-link necklace or sleek watch will elevate the coziness without feeling fussy.

Shop Women’s Nike Sportswear Fleece Joggers

Nike Sportswear Phoenix Fleece

Women's high-waisted joggers.

Nike Sportswear Club Fleece

Women's mid-rise oversized cargo sweatpants.

Women's High-Waisted Oversized Sweatpants

Nike Sportswear Tech Fleece

Women's mid-rise joggers.

Women's Mid-Rise Joggers (Plus Size)

Women's High-Waisted Wide-Leg Sweatpants (Plus Size)

Women's Mid-Rise Oversized Sweatpants

Nike Sportswear Essential

Women's fleece pants.

Women's Oversized High-Waisted Pants

Leggings for the long haul.

A favorite among many travelers, full-length leggings are a no-brainer when thinking up vacation outfit ideas and refining your airport style. Simple and sleek, they’re perfect for any travel day where comfort is the priority, and many of them offer functional details like pockets to quickly stash your phone and ID. Add a long, loose top and oversized sweater or sweatshirt to balance the fitted silhouette of the leggings. Then, toss on a pair of sculptural hoop earrings for a dash of polish.

Shop Women’s Full-Length Tights & Leggings

Women's High-Waisted Flared Leggings

Women's Mid-Rise Mesh-Paneled Leggings

Women's High-Waisted Full-Length Leggings

Women's Gentle-Support High-Waisted Full-Length Leggings

Nike Universa

Women's medium-support high-waisted full-length leggings with pockets.

Women's Firm-Support High-Waisted Full-Length Leggings with Pockets

Nike Sportswear Chill Knit

Women's tight high-waisted sweater flared pants.

Women's Tight Mini-Rib Flared Leggings

Women's High-Waisted Full-Length Split-Hem Leggings

Nike Pro SE

Women's high-waisted full-length leggings with pockets, all hail the hoodie.

Hoodies and pullovers are the best companions for chilly airplane cabins or early morning flights (not to mention they can double as a pillow if you peel off the layer after getting warm). Pair these cozy layers with joggers or leggings, and for more dimension, perhaps add a bomber jacket for a finish. After all, wearing a jacket on the plane reduces the weight in a checked bag — a pro-packing hack.

Shop Women’s Hoodies & Pullovers

Women's Over-Oversized Crew-Neck Sweatshirt

Nike Sportswear Chill Terry

Women's loose full-zip french terry hoodie.

Women's Oversized Crew-Neck Sweatshirt

Women's Full-Zip Hoodie

Women's Over-Oversized Cardigan

Women's Crew-Neck Sweatshirt

Women's Oversized Pullover Hoodie

Nike Dri-FIT Prima

Women's 1/2-zip training top.

Women's 1/2-Zip Cropped Sweatshirt

Women's Oversized Cropped Crew-Neck Sweatshirt

Support in Style

Light support bras are a staple for those who prioritize comfort and support. Pair these with a semi-sheer top for a subtle flash of style. A pendant necklace or two will amplify the layered look with extra personality.

Shop Women’s Light Support Sports Bras

Nike Indy Light Support

Women's padded adjustable sports bra.

Nike Swoosh Light Support

Women's non-padded sports bra.

Women's Light-Support Non-Padded Ribbed Bra

Nike Zenvy Strappy

Women's light-support padded sports bra.

Nike Zenvy Rib

Women's light-support non-padded longline sports bra.

Nike One Convertible

Women's light-support lightly lined longline sports bra.

Nike Alate All U

Women's light-support lightly lined ribbed sports bra.

Nike Indy Seamless Ribbed

Women's light-support non-padded sports bra.

Nike Alate Minimalist

Nike Alate (M)

Women's light-support lightly lined nursing sports bra (maternity), fresh air force 1s.

A pair of reliable sneakers is the ultimate anchor to every great airport outfit. A pair of Nike Air Force 1s isn't just comfortable, it's iconic and adds a sporty touch to your travel attire. Complement these with ankle-length pants or leggings and a gleaming or beaded anklet.

Shop Nike Air Force 1 Shoes

Nike Air Force 1 '07

Women's shoes.

Nike Air Force 1 '07 EasyOn

Nike Air Force 1 '07 Next Nature SE

Nike Air Force 1 Shadow

Member Product

Nike air force 1 '07 lx.

Nike Air Force 1 '07 Next Nature

Nike Air Force 1 Wild

Nike Air Force 1 High

Men's Shoes

Tees, please.

Easy tees are all about comfort — key for travel — but there's no harm in prioritizing a little style, too. Think beyond your regular rotation of V-necks and crew necks and consider an oversized rugby style silhouette. Then, pair your favorite one with relaxed-fit joggers or cargo pants and a classic baseball cap or beanie.

Shop Women's Lifestyle Tops

Women's Cropped T-Shirt

Women's Oversized T-Shirt

Women's T-Shirt

Nike Sportswear

Women's Tight Scoop-Back Short-Sleeve Mini-Rib Top

Women's Tight Cropped Mini-Rib Tank Top

Women's Tight Cami Tank

Women's Slim Cropped T-Shirt

Nike Sportswear Classic

It's in the bag.

Don't underestimate the power of a functional bag. A duffel or backpack is a sensible choice for travel, as either option is often equipped with plenty of pockets and straps for hassle-free packing and carrying. Make the most of this travel look by thinking monochromatically , adding socks and a hat of the same hue for a color-coordinating effect — and statement-making impact.

If you're heading somewhere warm (beach vacay, perhaps?) — and you want to get out of your airport outfit after landing — consider tossing an athletic dress, a color-coordinating cardigan and a pair of strappy sandals in your carry-on bag for a quick glow-up.

Shop Nike Duffel Bags

Nike Brasilia 9.5

Training duffel bag (medium, 60l).

Nike Brasilia

Training duffel bag (small, 41l).

Nike Utility Power

Training duffel bag (medium, 51l).

Training Duffel Bag (Large, 95L)

Training Duffel Bag (Small, 31L)

Nike Elemental Premium

Duffel bag (45l).

Lacrosse Duffel Bag (60L)

Jordan Velocity

Duffle bag (36l).

Nike Hoops Elite

Duffel bag (57l).

Duffel Bag (50L)

Words by Laura Lajiness Kaupke

Shop Nike Backpacks

Nike Utility Speed

Training backpack (27l).

Nike Utility Elite

Training backpack (32l).

Backpack (32L)

Basketball Backpack (32L)

Nike Heritage

Eugene backpack (23l).

Nike Hayward

Backpack (26l).

Nike Sportswear RPM

Training Backpack (Extra Large, 30L)

Training Backpack (Medium, 24L)

Convertible Diaper Bag (Maternity) (25L)

Originally published: November 10, 2023

Related Stories

What To Wear to the Gym: 5 Outfit Essentials

Shop These Nike Monochrome Outfit Ideas

What to Wear in 50-Degree Weather: 7 Nike Outfit Essentials

Buying Guide

The Top 9 Nike Gift Ideas for Dancers

Spike and Set in Style With These Volleyball Outfits From Nike

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser .

• Guide to Russia
• Travel Tips

How to Pack for a Trip to Russia

What should i pack for russia.

• Clothes for winter : Layers, thermal underwear, a long coat, hat, scarf and gloves, warm shoes and socks
• Clothes for summer : Breathable clothing, lightweight jacket and jumper, sunglasses and sunhat
• Clothes for going out : Nice shirt and smart trousers for men, smart trousers and top or dress for women
• Personal items : Insect repellent and sun-cream, wet wipes and hand sanitiser, medications, extension cords, earplugs and an eye mask

One of the biggest questions before travelling anywhere, is what to pack. But for those going on a Russian tour, this can be simpler than expected because essentially, Russia only has two seasons, winter and summer. The leaves turn golden for a mere two or three weeks before the temperatures rapidly drop and winter begins, and spring is more of a melting period, with snow and ice seen even as late as May.

Read on to find out what to pack, and how to be comfortable and prepared in every situation.

What clothes to wear in Russia?

Clothes for winter.

Russia is spectacularly beautiful in the wintertime. A dusting of snow covers the palaces, churches and museums, and the icy forests truly look like something out of a fairy tale. But regardless of the magical atmosphere, the outside world is generally very cold. In the cities you will most likely be visiting, winter temperatures are in the range of -10 to -20 degrees Celsius, or 14 to -4 degrees Fahrenheit, but can be even lower.

Layers are vital. For maximum comfort (and safety), bring sweatshirts or hoodies, warm long trousers or extra thick tights, and thermal underwear. A long, warm coat is highly recommended. Not only will it keep you insulated from the cold, but if you slip on the ice it will cushion you and protect your clothes. And of course, it goes without saying that you must bring a hat, scarf and gloves. Ideally, very warm gloves, a fur or wool hat which covers your ears, and a scarf which can be wrapped around your face as well.

Even if the outside world is an icy -30, the inside of Russian buildings remain toasty and warm - heating is generated in a centralised location and switched on in September/October, providing automatic and constant heating for all the buildings in the locality and Russians like it very warm indoors. So, make sure to also bring indoor clothes and lighter layers - a suitcase full of only thick jumpers will do you no favours when you’re inside.

One of the most vital items on your list should be a warm pair of waterproof shoes, as Russia’s sidewalks and streets transform into a quagmire of slush and snow during winter. Shoes should have grippy treads as ice is often more problematic than snow, and the pavement can turn into an uneven mountain of black ice. Make sure to bring warm socks, preferably those sold in hiking/outdoor shops.

For those travelling to Siberia , the weather will be significantly colder, so pack accordingly. If you plan on doing activities such as skiing or snowboarding then bring waterproof trousers, and sunglasses are a good idea if you will spend a lot of time outside in the snow.

Clothes for summer

Despite its reputation, Russia isn’t always covered in snow. Summer is the perfect time to explore the country. Take a stroll any time of day or night, appreciate the White Nights in northern Russia, or go on a camping trip. Temperatures are generally in the range of 20 - 30 degrees Celsius, or 70-80 degrees Fahrenheit. Air conditioning is not a common sight in Russia, and Russian people have an innate fear of drafts so even on public transport in the middle of summer, windows are often kept shut. Lightweight and breathable clothing is your best bet, and a sunhat and sunglasses are essential items.

The weather can still be unpredictable, so bring a lightweight jacket and jumper for cooler evenings, and an umbrella too, especially if you’re visiting St. Petersburg . Russians dress modestly so you may feel uncomfortable in anything very short or low cut. To be respectful when visiting Russia’s churches, bring a scarf to cover your head and shoulders and a bottom layer of modest length.

Clothes for going out

There is a famous saying that ‘good clothes open all doors’ - and it’s safe to say that Russians dress impeccably when going to the theatre, a nice restaurant, or a nightclub. You do not have to bring a tuxedo or an evening gown, as low-key elegance is better than extravagance. For men, a nice shirt, smart trousers and shoes won’t go amiss. And for women, smart trousers and top or an elegant dress, and heels or nice boots. In winter, it is perfectly normal to change shoes at the theatre cloakroom if you don’t want to risk your high heels on the ice. Upmarket Russian nightclubs often have strict ‘face control’ who turn away those who they consider to be badly dressed, so bring a stylish outfit.

TRAVELERS ASK: Can you wear jeans in Russia?

It’s perfectly acceptable to wear jeans in Russia. Denim is enormously popular among Russians and you will be allowed into museums, churches and restaurants wearing jeans. However, Russians love to dress up, so wear smarter clothes for upmarket restaurants, nightclubs or the theatre. Jeans alone are insufficient for the Russian winter, so pack thermal underwear or tights accordingly.

Personal items and toiletries

You should bring insect repellent if visiting during summer, especially when travelling to Siberia - mosquitoes and horseflies have a voracious appetite. And don’t forget your sun cream!

Bring tissues, wet wipes and hand sanitiser. Public toilets are not very hygienic anywhere in Russia.

Russia has plenty of toiletry and cosmetic shops, so you won’t be in trouble if you forget your favourite shampoo or makeup. But make sure to bring any medication that you may need, as you may not be able to get it when you’re in Russia. Also, it’s a good idea to double check that your medication is legal in Russia - see Russian Customs Rules .

Bring a few different bags. A travel belt is the best way to safely carry your money and passports, and a small handbag or daysack will allow you to comfortably explore any Russian town or city. Russia uses two pin plug sockets (same as Europe) so remember your travel adaptors. One of the best tips for travelling abroad is to bring an extension cord from your home country with an adapter. Learn more about voltage in Russia . 

For travelling on the Trans-Siberian Express or other long distance trains, a good quality portable charger will prove a lifesaver. Bring sleeping clothes which you would feel comfortable wearing while in a public space, slippers or sandals, and earplugs and an eye mask.

And lastly, don’t forget to pack your favourite book by one of Russia’s great writers. There is absolutely no better place to enjoy Dostoevsky, Tolstoy, or Bulgakov than when you’re in Russia - immersed in their culture and history!

Photos by  @freestocks   @katherine_xx11   @aliciasteels   @larisabirta

Related Tours

Imperial St. Petersburg

This is our most complete St. Petersburg tour package. Besides visiting all of the major sights within the city and three Imperial summer residences, you will also see the Yusupov Palace and learn about the life and murder of Rasputin, one of the most mysterious figures in Russia’s history.

Accommodation

PRIVATE TOUR

Jewels of Two Capitals

It is our most complete and popular tour of Moscow and St. Petersburg. In addition to visiting all the emblematic places, you will also have free time for your own discoveries. On your free nights you can watch the shows at the Bolshoi and Mariinsky Theaters or a folkloric show.

Winter Fairy Tale

One of the best times to visit Russia is winter. At this time of year, all of Russia becomes festive and full of activity, the streets and parks turn into wonderlands of snow and frost with families out and about strolling and taking in the beautiful nature.

Our travel brands include

Express to Russia

Join us on Facebook

We invite you to become a fan of our company on Facebook and read Russian news and travel stories. To become a fan, click here .

Join our own Russian Travel, Culture and Literature Club on Facebook. The club was created to be a place for everyone with an interest in Russia to get to know each other and share experiences, stories, pictures and advice. To join our club, please follow this link .

We use cookies to improve your experience on our Website, and to facilitate providing you with services available through our Website. To opt out of non-essential cookies, please click here . By continuing to use our Website, you accept our use of cookies, the terms of our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service . I agree

Russia Packing List

Whether you're heading to Russia for vacation or business, there are a few absolute essentials that you can't forget to pack. Beyond the appropriate wardrobe, you should bring a power converter; your passport and visa; and much more. Make your list and plan ahead of time so you don't leave anything important behind.

You can't travel to Russia if you don't have a Russian visa. In order to get one, you should apply well in advance of your trip through an embassy. You will also need an invitation (issued by the hotel at which you plan to stay or through a travel agent), and you can use this invitation to apply for your visa. Double check that the visa is valid during the dates of your trip, and carry your visa with you wherever you go in Russia as sometimes police do random checks.

Bring some cash with you, as you will likely need it. Euros and USD can be exchanged almost anywhere in Russia. There will be ATMs in the airport (or wherever you are arriving), but it’s possible in Russia that they’ll be out of order—so don’t take that risk. It’s quite difficult to pay by credit card in Russia (and practically impossible to pay by debit card), so having cash is essential. Make sure the bills are in crisp, good condition, as it’s quite common in Russia for people (and even banks) to reject damaged bills.

If you’re traveling to Moscow or St. Petersburg and are planning on seeing the tourist attractions , make sure you have a good way of securing your money. Either wear a money belt or get a small bag that sits close to your body with a secure closure—and keep an eye on it!

If you are going to be staying with a host family, or interacting extensively with Russian people in general, it’s nice to bring some small souvenirs from your country (mugs, t-shirts, keychains, and so on). This is a small gesture that will be greatly appreciated.

Toilet Paper

Russian toilets are notoriously dirty and unkempt, and you will often not find toilet paper inside. Carry some with you (or a small pack of tissues) just in case. You may also want to pack a travel-sized bottle of hand sanitizer as well.

In general, it’s good to bring layers. A scarf will be particularly useful for covering your head if you’re a woman planning to visit religious monuments. This is usually not obligatory, but it is appreciated.

Russian weather is quite unpredictable, and even if you’re traveling at the height of summer, it would be wise to bring an umbrella. This is especially true in St. Petersburg or ​ northern Russia , where it's more likely to rain.

When you're packing your toiletry bag, make sure to include prescription drugs and contact lens solution. Although you can buy most household items in pharmacies and shops in Russia, these particular things are surprisingly difficult to find.

Fancy Outfits

If you plan on going clubbing, you'll need to bring nice clothes. Many clubs, especially in Moscow and St. Petersburg , have a strict dress code and will not let you in if you’re not up to their standards. So don’t show up wearing jeans and a T-shirt, which may be fine if you're  going to a casual, local bar  but not to an exclusive club.

Duffel Bags

Packing light is recommended no matter where you're traveling to. But in Russia, try to leave your oversized luggage and rolling suitcases at home. Instead, use a duffel bag that you can easily throw over your shoulder. Many Russian metro stations don’t have escalators but they do have huge staircases that must be climbed to get around the station, which is difficult to navigate with a bulky suitcase.

Moscow - Russian Rivers and Waterways Port of Call

Is It Safe in Russia?

Russia Travel Basics and Tips

How to Travel to Russia on a Budget

How to Go to Russia – How Do I Get to Russia?

Your Trip to Morocco: The Complete Guide

How to Visit Russia as an American

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

What to Pack for Mexico

The 8 Best Travelpro Luggage Items of 2024

Vacation Packing Checklist for France

How to Pack and Choose Clothing for Your New England Trip

Top 10 Travel Essentials

Everything You Should Pack for a Camping Trip

The 9 Best Samsonite Luggage Items of 2024

The 9 Best Carry-on Luggage for Men of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

What to Pack for Russia in Summer: Day to Night Style

Europe Packing List , Packing Lists , Travel Packing Lists

Support TFG by using the links in our articles to shop. We receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) so we can continue to create helpful free content. We earn from qualifying purchases made to the featured retailers. Thank you, we appreciate your support!

Wondering what to pack for Russia in the summer? Our Russian-born author shares her tips and tricks on dressing for both day and night!

What to Pack for Russia: Summer

Written By: Julia K.

If you made it to Moscow, Russia during summer, you’re in luck. Moscow offers a plethora of beautifully landscaped parks and festivals all over the city. If you want to know how to visit all those locations in style, continue reading!

Traveling to Russia in the winter? Read this post instead.

Packing List for Russia in the Summer

White Top  | Blouse |  Tank | Top |  Shirt |  Pant |  Pants | Skirt | Dress |  Dress  | Jacket | Cardigan | Flats | Wedge | Bag  | Hat

Summers in Moscow can get hot. It can range between 77-86°F (25-30°C) and sometimes be humid. Dressing appropriately, comfortably, and accordingly will save you a headache and make your stay more enjoyable.

Always check the weather forecast before your trip. Once you’ve researched the weather, you can focus on creating a travel capsule wardrobe , which should easily fit in a carryon suitcase with the help of packing cubes to compress your clothing.

Must-see attractions during summer include many parks, such as VDNH, Chistyye Prudy, Izmaylovo and Izmailovsky Park, and of course the famous antique and flea market called Vernisaj.

Start by reading these general tips on packing for summer travel:

• Capsule Wardrobe for Summer
• Top Summer Dresses Perfect for Europe
• Lightweight Jackets for Easy Layers
• Best Walking Shoes for Europe’s Cobblestone Streets

One can see a range of different styles in Moscow. After all, it’s a hub for many travelers, businesspeople, and locals. However, if you’d like to be perceived and treated in a particular way, then pay attention to the way you dress.

You may attract unwanted attention if you wear clothing that’s inappropriate to the local culture. Observe what people are wearing around you and these tips should help point you in the right direction before you arrive.

The following suggestions are based on the perspective of a local born in Moscow.

What to pack for Russia if you’re going to any of the parks:

Blouse | Shorts |  Hat | Scarf | Watch | Sunglasses | Purse  | Flats

• Flat sandals or flats
• Dressy shorts or a midi skirt (no shorter than one hand above the knee)
• A nice blouse
• A crossbody bag
• A hat and sunglasses
• Jewelry and a watch

If you’ll be staying out all day into the evening, wearing layers is key. Pack a shawl or a cardigan for romantic walks next to the Moscow River.

Pro tip: Take a mosquito repellent just in case and apply sun protection wherever you go.

Read this post to find out our stylish strategies on how to layer clothes !

What not to wear:

As a local, I wouldn’t recommend wearing flip flops, short shorts, mini skirts, bright makeup, or see-through clothes. It’s a good idea not to show cleavage, unless you have a layer underneath. Choose understated jewelry instead of flashier pieces.

What to pack for Russia if you’re going to a festival:

Dress |  Hat  | Umbrella |  Crossbody  | Earrings | Lipstick | Watch |  Flats

• A nice day dress
• A pair of comfortable wedges
• A light purse
• A scarf for the evening
• Light jewelry
• Light makeup (bronzer, mascara, lip gloss, blush)

Find out the top ten wedges readers recommend!

Travel shoes:

Flats  |  Wedge |  Oxfords

If you’d like to explore Moscow, then comfortable shoes are a must!

The summer weather is pretty predictable. Based on that, you’ll need three pairs of shoes. One to explore the city, a pair to wear in your hotel room, and something for going out. Think: wedges, dressy flats with a thick sole, and flip-flops.

What are the most comfy shoes? These experts are giving you the inside scoop on their twenty-one top picks. Take a look !

What to pack for Russia if you’re going to enjoy dinner and a ferry ride along the Moscow River:

Top  | Skirt | Jacket |  Sunglasses  |  Wedge  |  Lipstick  | Clutch | Earrings

• A midi skirt or cropped dressy pants
• A dressy blouse
• Comfortable but dressy shoes
• An evening clutch
• A jacket for any unexpected chill

Make sure your clothes are clean and neat, and that there are no flashy colors or over-the-top prints.

Summer is also a perfect opportunity to take a short trip to St. Petersburg, one of the most iconic cities in the world. It’s full of heritage, architecture, galleries, and art, even for the most discerning travelers and art lovers. You can get there by train or plane. Whichever is in your budget, pack with comfort and style in mind!

Whether you’re spending a summer abroad or finally taking that vacation you’ve been dreaming about for years, TFG has the ultimate long term packing list for your European adventures !

What to pack for Russia for a 3-day getaway to St. Petersburg:

Dress  |  Earrings | Clutch | Wedge |  Cardigan  | Tank  | Pants |  Flats | Purse  |  Blouse  | Pants | Jacket |  Scarf | Hat | Flats

• Day/night dress that’s easy to dress up or down with some jewelry
• Comfortable flats to explore the city in
• A change of clothes that covers your knees and shoulders
• A scarf and sweater for when the city becomes cooler during the evening
• A windbreaker
• Everyday jewelry
• A hat to protect yourself from the sun
• A small umbrella

These are the most cute and comfortable ballet flats for travel!

Some museums and churches might refuse service or admission if shoulders and knees are uncovered. I also recommend avoiding jean cutoffs and tank tops, as they may get unwanted attention.

When entering any religious building modesty should be considered, these tips will help you learn how to pack!

Shopping tips:

Moscow has every single store you could think of! From global luxury brands to everyday wear, it caters to many budgets.

If you want to arrive during sale season, then arrive one to two months before the end of the season. You can pick up European-made goods cheaper than in North America. Good shopping malls include Afimall located in Moscow City (another must see) and Evropeiskii located at Kievsky train station.

What are your tips on what to pack for Russia in the summer? Share in the comments below!

For more ideas on what to pack for Russia and Europe, please read:

• Ten-Step Packing Guide for Europe
• What to Wear in Russia in Winter
• Best Shoes for Europe
• What to Wear in Moscow in the Winter

Suggested Travel Resources:

• Lonely Planet Russia (Travel Guide)
• Lonely Planet Russian Phrasebook & Dictionary

LIKED THIS POST? PIN THIS PIC TO SAVE IT!

We hope you liked this post on what to pack for Russia in summer. Please share with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

Author Bio: Julia K is a travel blogger who believes in utilizing every item in her luggage 101%. When at home, she likes to explore what’s new in the world of travel fashion, food, and travel gadgets. Follow her on Instagram ,  Facebook , Twitter , and her blog .

I’m traveling to Moscow in five days and was wondering if I should really not wear shorts. I’ve been to Nizhny Novgorod in the summer and Moscow in the winter so I have a few ideas about what to wear, but I thought that shorts wouldn’t be so bad.

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

The 14 Best Travel Crossbody Bags to Complement Your Wanderlust

Embark on adventure in style.

Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

The best crossbody bags for travel (some of which you’ll find on 2023’s list of must-have designer bags ) allow you to carry your essentials hands-free while you’re hauling ass through airport security at 5 A.M. or putting on the miles during a day of sightseeing. Get a bag that can do both. And if you choose wisely, you’ll also be able to sling it over all of your bulky winter puffer jackets before heading out for dinner and drinks.

Best Luxury

Bottega veneta the cassette padded leather crossbody bag.

Best Camera Bag

Isabel marant wardy camera bag.

Best Leather

Mansur gavriel moon sling bag.

Prada Padded Re-Nylon Shoulder Bag

Best Utility

Dagne dover nova sling bag.

Best Satchel

Mz wallace small sutton deluxe.

Best Organization

We-ar4 the cargo leather crossbody bag.

Best Shoulder Style

Baggu medium nylon crescent bag.

Best Backpack

Béis the sport sling.

Best Security

Travelon anti-theft courier tour bag.

So, whether you’re jetting off on an international adventure or just heading home for the holidays, shop the 14 best crossbody bags for travel ahead.

If you prefer to shop designer, more power to you. For a travel-friendly style, look for items that close securely and transition well from day to night.

Dimensions: Height: 6.5 inches; width: 3.5 inches; length: 10.5 inches

Material: Leather

Colors: 19 options

Customer review: “This is a gorgeous bag, and the leather is so dreamy *but* you will be forced to pick and choose what you want to carry as the interior is quite small. I’m able to fit my iPhone pro, small wallet, lip balm and car key…and that’s pretty much it. But the look is worth it!”

While we love cameras, camera bags are usually ugly, point blank. You’re not paparazzi, and although you are a traveler, you wouldn’t want anyone to think of you as a tourist , right? This fashionable find from Isabel Marant is the solution.

Dimensions: Height: 5.25 inches; width: 3 inches; length: 7.25 inches

Material: Leather, silver, textile

Colors: Black

If style is your top priority, here’s an option that will match with quite literally anything you wear. The concession is that you might not be able to squeeze that telescopic camera lens inside it, but there’s more than enough room for airplane snacks.

Dimensions: Height: 5.5 inches; width: 7.1 inches; length: 10.6 inches

Material: Calfskin

Colors: Black, Desert, Avorio, Plum

Customer review: “What a beautiful and versatile bag, both in terms of style and colour. It's surprisingly roomy for the size. The leather is absolutely beautiful and buttery soft. Super happy with my purchase!”

It wouldn’t be a complete crossbody roundup without some form of nylon Prada. Similar to the ever-practical Re-Edition 2005 Re-Nylon Bag , this quilted flap-over bag comes complete with a detachable mini zipper pouch.

Dimensions: Height: 17 centimeters; width: 24 centimeters; length: 8 centimeters

Material: Nylon fabric

Colors: Black, Desert Beige

Customer review: “I have the original nylon and the Re-Edition, and they are my go-to bags. Lightweight, durable, and great for daily use.”

If you’re the sporty or adventuring type of traveler, allow us to introduce you to this style from Dagne Dover. We think you’d be perfect for each other.

Dimensions: Height: 12 inches; width: 4 inches; length: 9.5 inches

Material: REPREVE recycled polyester

Colors: Onyx, Moonbeam, Goji

Customer review: “Recently took this bag on my weeklong trip to Amsterdam...It worked so well. It comfortably fit my small Nalgene water bottle, wallet, sunscreen, sunglasses—all the necessities. It’s not huge but it could also fit small souvenirs picked up throughout the day such as magnets, small jewelry items, candy, etc. Highly recommend!”

Here at ELLE, we love MZ Wallace . This perfectly sized Sutton is just the latest obsession. We scrolled through pages and pages of five-star customer reviews in search of any “cons” to no avail.

Dimensions: Height: 10.2 inches; width: 9.8 inches; depth: 5.5 inches

Material: REC Oxford, Italian leather

Colors: 17 options

Customer review: “Love the feel, look and style. Everything fits so nicely in this bag. All items are an eyes view and so convenient to get. Love it.”

Cargo bags have appeared repeatedly over the past few fashion months, which means organization just got trendier. This sectioned bag allows you to keep all those bits and bobs in a place of their own.

Dimensions: Height: 8.5 inches; length: 10.5 inches; depth: 4 inches

Colors: Black, Sage, Navy, Ice Blue

This BAGGU option is actually a personal recommendation from associate fashion commerce editor Meg Donohue—although all the rave customer reviews amplify the point. This bag is spacious, not bulky, and surprisingly cute.

Dimensions: Height: 8 inches; width: 13.75 inches; depth: 4 inches

Material: Nylon

Colors: Black, Brown, Cocoa, Lemongrass, Pixel Gingham

Customer review: “This bag is so cute and easy to carry. I’m a mom on the go and my bags always get dirty. This bag is so comfortable and easy to clean. The strap is nice and wide and comfortable and the bag is big enough for me to even carry my Owala in it! If you’re on the fence, come on over. This bag rules!”

Béis knows travel. This sling backpack is ideal for busy walkabout days and can play counterpart to any number of other Béis luggage pieces. If you act fast, you can stock up and save big on multiple items during the brand’s early Black Friday sale .

Dimensions: Height: 8.2 inches; width: 6.7 inches; depth: 2.7 inches

Material: Nylon, faux leather, recycled polyester

Colors: Black, Slate, Beige, Atlas Pink, Maple

Customer review: “Love all the pockets and how accessible the sling is! Grabbing what you need quickly from the slots is so handy. I can’t wait to use this on my Italy trip!”

As a traveler with her naïveté on constant display, this anti-theft bag could’ve saved me some heartbreak (and the four hours I spent Google translating a theft complaint to the Paris police department). Slash-resistant material, deep locking compartments, and an RFID-protected pocket mean you can rest a little easier knowing your belongings are safe and sound.

Dimensions: Length: 11 inches; height: 11.5 inches; depth: 3 inches

Material: Cotton canvas, leather

Colors: Navy, Stone Grey

Customer review: “Did a month with this bag all over the world and there is no wear or tear that I can see at all...it fit everything I needed (wallet, rolled up rain jacket, phone, passport, rolled sun visor, etc.) and the zip out water bottle pocket works with a collapsible water bottle to fill up when you’re not in an airport.”

Tumi Valetta North/South Crossbody

For those who never leave their tech behind, keep your lifeline secure in Tumi’s vertical crossbody, complete with a touch of leather trim for style points. It has pockets for cash, cards, and mini must-haves.

Dimensions: Height: 7.3 inches; length: 5.3 inches, depth: 2 inches

Material: Nylon, leather

Mango Crossbody Bag

This bag from Mango gives off an aura of quiet luxury that makes it versatile enough to wear as your day-to-day bag or take it on the go. It’s polished, simple, and houses dual compartments to enhance convenience.

Dimensions: Length: 10.2 inches; height: 6.7 inches; width: 3.5 inches

Material: Polyurethane, polyester

Colors: Black, Leather

Customer review: “Yeah to to faux leather! The time has come for us to be conscious consumers. This purse is perfect to wear with my simple, classic wardrobe pieces.”

Coach Coachtopia Loop Quilted Wavy Tote

An extension of the Coach brand, Coachtopia revives recycled and upcrafted materials to give birth to new designs, like this puffy-soft crossbody laptop tote.

Dimensions: Length: 16.75 inches; height: 12.25 inches

Material: Recycled polyester

Colors: Twilight, Deep Orange, Black, Olive Green

Customer review: “This tote is so cute and comfy on my shoulders. It holds a lot of items...great for work or travel.”

FashionPuzzle Triple Zip Small Crossbody Bag

This crossbody bag has a 4.6-star rating from almost 30,000 reviews. At such an affordable price point, you might want to choose a couple of color options to add to your collection.

Dimensions: Length: 8.5 inches; height: 5.5 inches; depth: 2.75 inches

Material: Faux leather

Colors: 30 options

Customer review: “I use this when traveling, it holds so much without being bulky. I can put passports, phone, sunglasses, lip products, money/cards and still have gobs of room left.”

Get the ‘Palm Royale‘ Look With These Caftans

Do I Really Need an Octobuddy?

The Launch: Fashion News to Know This May

Reviewers Are Obsessed with These Amazon Mirrors

The Best Quiet Luxury Home Decor from Amazon

Amazon Has a Secret Outlet of Premium Home Goods

Hands Down, These Are the Best Graduation Gifts

Shop This TikTok-Viral Home Décor on Amazon

Here’s What to Pack for a Camping Trip

14 Best Adhesive Bras & Sticky Boobs

The 15 Most Comfortable Slides to Wear This Summer

• Clothing, Shoes & Jewelry
• Handbags & Wallets
• Fashion Backpacks

Image Unavailable

• To view this video download Flash Player

Pink Cherry Floral Backpack Purse for Women Anti-theft Small Fashion Travel Backpack HandBag Back Pack Lady Gifts,S

Purchase options and add-ons, about this item.

• 【Size Options】: Choose from two convenient sizes of this Women's Fashion Backpack Handbag - Small: 10.2x5.1x12.6 inches/26x13x32 cm or Medium: 11.4x6x14 inches/29x15.5x36 cm. Find the perfect fit for your specific carrying needs.
• 【Large Capacity】: This backpack purse has multiple zippered pockets, including 2 spacious main compartments for your cell phone, book, clothes, wallet, and makeup. It also features a front zip pocket, an anti-theft back pocket, and 2 side pockets for easy access to your essentials.
• 【Comfortable Design】: With a sturdy leather handle and thick straps, this women's travel backpack ensures a comfortable carrying experience, even during long journeys.
• 【Secure and Easy to Use】: Our backpack purse for women have double zipper design provides secure storage and easy access to your belongings, making it perfect for modern, on-the-go women.
• 【Fashion Style & Perfect Gift】: This fashionable and chic women's backpack purse is a must-have addition to your collection. Whether you're a busy professional, a trendy traveler, or a fashion-forward city dweller, this multipurpose bag is versatile and stylish. It also makes a great gift for female friends, mother, daughter, lover, or for special occasions like Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year, Valentine's Day, and Mother's Day.

Additional Information

Customers also viewed these products.

Looking for specific info?

Product details.

• Product Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 5.1 x 10.23 x 12.59 inches; 1 Pounds
• Item model number ‏ : ‎ Fashion
• Department ‏ : ‎ womens
• Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ Lotupokon
• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0D2NLSN4L
• Country of Origin ‏ : ‎ China

Product Description

Customer reviews.

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

No customer reviews

• Amazon Newsletter
• About Amazon
• Accessibility
• Sustainability
• Press Center
• Investor Relations
• Amazon Devices
• Amazon Science
• Sell on Amazon
• Sell apps on Amazon
• Supply to Amazon
• Protect & Build Your Brand
• Become an Affiliate
• Become a Delivery Driver
• Start a Package Delivery Business
• Advertise Your Products
• Self-Publish with Us
• Become an Amazon Hub Partner
• › See More Ways to Make Money
• Amazon Visa
• Amazon Store Card
• Amazon Secured Card
• Amazon Business Card
• Shop with Points
• Credit Card Marketplace
• Reload Your Balance
• Amazon Currency Converter
• Your Account
• Your Orders
• Shipping Rates & Policies
• Amazon Prime
• Returns & Replacements
• Manage Your Content and Devices
• Recalls and Product Safety Alerts
• Conditions of Use
• Privacy Notice
• Consumer Health Data Privacy Disclosure
• Your Ads Privacy Choices

Travelfornoobs

The Complete Packing List for Moscow

Moscow packing list – what you need to bring, how to pack for moscow.

You’ve booked your plane ticket and the time of departure is fast approaching? After the joys of such a decision, comes the question of knowing what to put in your suitcase to go to Moscow. No need to panic, we have prepared a very complete list of the essential things to bring to make sure you don’t miss anything once you are there.

In order to leave no room for unforeseen events, it’s of course preferable to go through this list a few days before leaving rather than the day before departure, as you might miss some items.

Take the time to read and download it in order to identify the things that you absolutely must pack and that you might miss and that could make you lose time and money if you forget them.

You will also need to think about packing according to the type of accommodation you will be staying in, the different modes of transportation you will use during your trip, the climate and the season, as well as the activities you plan to do.

In order to help you prepare your suitcase, this checklist of the essential things to bring in Moscow gathers several categories: clothes, accessories, various objects… It will allow you to have a concrete vision of a typical suitcase for Moscow.

An advice, think of keeping some space in your luggage if you wish to bring back souvenirs or to make some clothing shopping on the spot.

Thanks to this travel list, preparing your bag for Moscow will be a real child’s play and you will just have to enjoy your adventure!

Note : This article contains affiliate links to Amazon.

• Important hings to do before you go
• Essential documents
• Transport essentials
• Backpack & luggage
• Clothing and shoes
• Hygiene & Toiletries
• Photo, Video & High Tech
• Useful accessories
• Medication and first aid kit
• Activities and Useful Links (+ Printable checklist PDF)

1/ Important things to do before you go

 Prepare your travel itinerary  Apply for a visa (if necessary)  Make your vaccinations (if necessary)  Check-up at the doctor / dentist  Take out a travel insurance  Photocopy or scan important documents (passport)  Write down e-mail and useful phone numbers in your address book  Warn your bank about your trip abroad (if necessary)  Book accomodation for your first night ( Do it now before everything is fully booked! Check the best hotels on Booking )  Download offline applications and maps for Maps.me  Download movies offline   Prepare your favorite music playlist  Turn off or turn down the heat of your house  Empty garbage cans  Water the plants   Give a copy of your house/car keys to a family member or friend  Close doors and windows

2/ Essential documents

Even before you buy your plane ticket, remember to check the validity of your passport : it must be valid for at least six months after your return date (for some countries) and have a blank page. Another tip: send your important documents to a secondary email in case you lose them.

   Passport   ID card    Plane or train ticket (have a paper copy just in case)   Reservation documents (e-ticket, train ticket, hotel reservation)   Visa (if necessary)   International driver’s license, if you wish to rent a car   Health insurance card   Travel insurance   Credit card   Cash   Useful numbers in case of emergency   Itinerary and address of your accommodation (hotel / AirBnB / camping)   Vaccination certificate   Diving license, sailing license, etc.   Some business cards with your contact information, email, blog, website

3/ Transport essentials

The little things to have with you at all times during the flight or the trip by train or bus:

 Phone and charger  Book / Magazine / Kindle / Travel Guide  MP3 player   Chewing gum   Pen + notepad  Travel pillow ( my favorite )  Sleep mask ( my favorite )   Earplugs   Snacks / sandwich   Small water bottle  Nasal ointment for dry nose  Sunglasses   Glasses case   Watch   Hand sanitizer   Disposable face mask   Tissues   Motion sickness medication

4/ Backpack & luggage

 Waterproof dry bag ( my favorite )  Handbag   Travel laundry bag ( my favorite )  Carry-on suitcase ( my favorite )  Travel bag ( my favorite )   Luggage tag ( my favorite )   Travel Packing Organizers ( my favorite )   Rain cover for backpack ( my favorite )   Zippered carry-on bag   Shoe bag ( my favorite )   Fanny pack   Lightweight foldable backpack ( my favorite )

5/ Clothing and shoes

  Socks  Underwear (panties, thongs, bras, briefs, boxers…)  Tank tops  Skirt ♀  Dress ♀  Pajamas  T-shirts  Long sleeve shirt ( for her , for him )  Short sleeve shirt ( for her , for him )  Polo shirt ( for her , for him )   Sweatshirt / pullover ( for her , for him )   Jeans   Lightweight pants ( for her , for him )   Money belt ( my favorite )   Shorts   Jogging suit   Jacket / coat   K-way ( for her , for him )   Windbreaker ( for her , for him )  Hat / cap / beanie   Scarf / bandana   Swimsuit   Buff scarf ( my favorite )

For shoes, you will have to choose according to the activities you plan to do:

 Comfortable walking shoes   Shoes for going out (restaurants, bars, clubs…)  Flip-flops (for the beach, showers…) ( for her , for him )  Hiking shoes ( for her , for him )  Sandals ( for her , for him )   Water shoes for walking in water (beaches, waterfalls, rivers…) ( for her , for him )  Light trekking shoes ( for her , for him )  Crocs

6/ Hygiene & Toiletries

 Microfiber towel ( my favorite )   Toilet bag   Portable Travel Bottles ( my favorite )  Toothbrush & toothpaste  Dental floss  Soap   Shampoo   Facial cleanser   Nail clippers   Cotton buds (biodegradable)   Tweezers   Make-up   Deodorant   Comb / Hairbrush   Razor & shaving foam ♂   Biodegradable wipes ( my favorite )   Toilet paper roll   Perfume   Makeup ♀   Contact Lenses   Contact lens product   Pocket mirror

7/ Photo, Video & High Tech

For photographers and videographers:

 Camera  Lens  Memory card  Polarizing filters   ND filter   Extra battery   Charger + cable + plug adapter   Cleaning kit   External hard drive   USB key   Stabilizer   Drone ( my favorite )    Waterproof phone case   Flash   Solar charger ( my favorite )    Gopro ( my favorite )   Waterproof case   Selfie Pole  External battery / Powerbank ( my favorite ) 

Don’t forget:

 Portable speaker  Ipad / Tablet  Laptop PC  External battery  Headphones or noise cancelling headphones ( my favorite )

Useful apps to download before you go to Moscow:

 AirBnB  Booking  Couchsurfing  Flush – Public Toilet Finder (Useful for finding toilets!)  Google Maps  Google Translator  Google Trips  Lonely Planet Guide  LoungeBuddy  Maps.me  Meetup  Tripadvisor  Uber  Whatsapp  XE Currency

8/ Useful accessories

The accessories you will take in your bag for Moscow will depend on your travel style:

  TSA lock ( my favorite )  Headlamp ( my favorite )  Sleeping bag ( my favorite )  Sheets ( my favorite )  Swiss Army knife (not in the hand luggage!) ( my favorite )  Travel clothesline ( my favorite )  Powdered or liquid detergent  Clothes pegs  Spork ( my favorite )  Ziploc bags  Lighter  Folding umbrella ( my favorite )  Toilet paper  Mosquito repellent ( my favorite )   Mosquito net ( my favorite )   Sunscreen cream  Aloe vera gel   Waterproof pouch for smartphone    For hikers : GPS, map, compass, water bottle   Walking stick ( my favorite )   Anti-sweat talcum powder ( my favorite )   Beach towel ( my favorite )   Sawyer water filter ( must-have !)  Pills to purify non-drinking water   Mask, snorkel, fins   Diving accessories (gloves, dive computer, lamp, knife…)

9/ Medication and first aid kit

I suggest that you consult your doctor and dentist before leaving. Beware of unauthorized medication and remember to keep your vaccinations up to date!

If you have a treatment don’t forget to take your personal medication and your prescription if necessary (or medical certificate).

You can buy a first aid kit already prepared ( my favorite ).

  Cotton buds   Tweezers   Round-tipped scissors   Pairs of single-use latex gloves  Bandages   Paracetamol or ibuprofen for pain   Sterile compresses   Disinfectant spray for wounds   Physiological saline solution in pods (wound cleaning)   Condoms and other contraceptives

For longer trips and higher risk locations, we can also add:

  Sterile adhesive skin sutures (steristrips)   Rehydration solutions (in case of dehydration)   Water purification tablets   Water decontamination tablets (Aquatabs or Micropur)   Medication for altitude   Medication for sore throat    Anti-malarial medication   Survival blanket   Tick tweezers   Ointment against itching (antihistamine)   Probiotics for the stomach   Corticosteroid pills and cream   Analgesics (painkillers)   Survival blanket   Cold medicine (decongestant)   Biafine (in case of burns or sunburns)   Broad-spectrum antibiotics without a prescription   Anti-diarrhea tablets (immodium, smecta)

10/ Activities and Useful Links + Printable checklist

You can download the complete travel list in PDF format and print it by clicking here.

Book your hotel in Moscow now on Booking.com

AirBnb : Get a discount for your first booking!

Book now your activities in Moscow on Getyourguide:

backpack Moscow business travel list Moscow check list Moscow checklist Moscow checklist travel Moscow Moscow travel checklist Moscow what to pack Moscow what to take essential for Moscow essentials for travelling to Moscow how to dress in Moscow how to pack for a trip to Moscow how to pack for Moscow list for travel to Moscow list of luggage for trip to Moscow list of things to bring on a trip to Moscow luggage list Moscow necessary for Moscow trip packing light for Moscow prepare your backpack for Moscow printable packing list for Moscow the essentials for going to Moscow travel list Moscow vacation packing checklist for Moscow what should I pack for Moscow trip what should I put in my travel bag for Moscow what to bring for a trip to Moscow what to pack for Moscow what to put in my suitcase to go to Moscow what to put in your suitcase for Moscow what to take to go to Moscow what to wear in Moscow

Leave a Comment Cancel reply