packable travel bag

10 Best Foldable Travel Bag: Roomy And Packable

Foldable travel bags are a must for any frequent traveler who packs light. They can fit into the pocket of your jacket, but have a capacity of at least 25 liters when unfolded. This means you’re able to go a little crazy on your trip and buy everything you want, without worrying about how you will fit it into your suitcase.

In this detailed review, you will see ten awesome foldable travel bags. Some are tote bags, others are duffel bags and I’ve also found two awesome foldable backpacks. And there are two really unique bags that might just be my favorite of them all!

At A Glance: Best Foldable Travel Bags

• Best Underseat Foldable Travel Bag Samsonite Foldaway Tote Sling Jump To Review
• Best Foldable Backpack Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack Jump To Review
• Best Compact Foldable Duffel Samsonite Foldaway Duffel Jump To Review
• Bug Travel Duffel Bag Bug Travel Duffel Bag Jump To Review
• Best Foldable Toiletry Bag Kaome 2 in 1 Hanging Toiletry Bag Jump To Review

Read on to see if they’re your favorites as well – if not, there are plenty of other foldable travel bags for you!

Top Product Overview

Top products, samsonite foldaway tote sling.

The Samsonite foldable tote is a great option for travel because it is an underseat tote bag . It’s small which makes a great addition to a carry on suitcase. On top of that, this bag is made from some really sturdy polyester , and it is going to last you a lot longer than a no-name bag with loose stitching.

In general, the materials that this bag is made from really are top-of-the-line, and that is why it’s the best under seat tote you can get.

The external pockets are noteworthy too – there’s a zippered one, and two open pockets, so there’s plenty of room for items you want to have easily accessible. And that’s in addition to the main compartment, which features a zippered closure.

There is one other zippered pocket inside the bag, and that’s it. But, the four pockets of the Samsonite are still a lot more than you will get on most other foldable totes. And the best thing is that this tote costs next to nothing, which is very affordable for such a great and established brand.

One downside of the bag is there are only two grab handles, so you can either sling them over your shoulder or carry them in your hand – like with any regular tote bag. I would have loved to see a longer shoulder strap on the bag, which would allow you to carry it like a crossbody bag.

• Fits under airplane seats
• Very durable exterior
• Four pockets total
• You can only carry it like a tote
• Does not have a luggage strap

Product Information

• Dimensions: 5.9” x 12.59” x 15.35”
• Weight: 10.4 oz
• Materials: 600 Denier PU

Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack

No foldable bag is quite as good as the Osprey Foldable Stuff Pack . The brand is one of the best backpack on the market, and all of their products are high quality . So, if you really want the best foldable backpack, this is the one to get.

The pack is made from durable ripstop nylon  with decent water resistance. It is incredibly lightweight at only 3 ounces, and it’s a carry-on sized backpack, so it’s great for travel. Plus, with a capacity of 18 liters, you will have more than enough room for all your must-have necessities.

The thing I love the most about this pack is that it still has ventilated shoulder straps for your carrying comfort. This is more than you will see on most other backpacks, so it’s already easy to see why Osprey just wipes out the competition.

With dual zippers, you have access to the main compartment from different sides of the backpack. This makes it easily accessible, no matter where you put it in the backpack.

There are a total of three external pockets (two open, one zippered), meaning there’s enough room for all those extra items you want handy at all times.

The only downside of this backpack is that it doesn’t have internal pockets, so organization will be a bit of a challenge. But that problem is easily solved with packing cubes, removable organization panels, and your own laptop sleeve.

• Breathable mesh on the harness
• Multiple external pockets
• Sternum strap not included
• No internal pockets
• Dimensions: 17” x 9” x 7”
• Weight: 3.04 oz
• Materials: Ripstop nylon

Samsonite Foldaway Duffel

Samsonite’s Foldaway Duffel is from the same collection as their foldable tote above. I don’t want to be too repetitive, but if you really want the best foldable travel bag that you can get your hands on, Samsonite is one of the safest options.

The duffel is constructed from 600D PU – a very thick polyester fabric, that is super durable and sturdy. There is also nylon lining on the inside, so the bag has double water-resistant protection. This bag also has both a pair of grab handles and a long shoulder strap, which is rare.

There is one pocket on the outside and another on the inside of the bag that it can fold itself into. And the bag has two extra open pockets that are great for items you want to have easy access to.

In addition to that, the main compartment of this bag is extra roomy and is perfect for fitting in all those souvenirs you bought on your trip.

This is actually a carry-on bag, but not an underseat one. You would have to commit to this as your main carry-on item, so remember that if you plan to pack a carry-on suitcase.

The main downside of this foldable travel bag is the price point. It’s not ridiculously expensive, but it is pricier than most other foldable duffels you will see in the rest of the review. However, this bag does have several features you won’t find on those cheaper bags, and it is made from really durable materials, so it’s definitely worth it.

• Sturdy materials
• Adjustable shoulder straps
• Pricier than other foldable duffels
• Not an underseat bag
• Dimensions: 8.26” x 11.81” x 21.65”
• Weight: 0.83 lbs

Bug Travel Duffel Bag

The Bug travel duffel bag is certainly a unique option. It’s not like any other bag you will see in this review, which is why it deserves to be so high up. It is made from a rather thick, waterproof material , so it’s not going to be as thin and lightweight as most of the other bags you will see in this review.

But those bags won’t be nearly as functional or as good as this one. With durable grab handles, a sturdy shoulder strap, and a trolley sleeve in the back, the Bug duffel is just like any other premium duffel bag you can get – with the advantage of being foldable, that is.

This bag doesn’t actually fold into its own pocket, which is why it’s interesting. It’s more like a jigsaw puzzle – the sidewalls of the bag can all be detached, and then folded one over the other. And those walls are full of different zippered and slip pockets so that you can easily stay organized while you’re traveling.

In fact, the duffel has a total of 7 pockets, in addition to a very roomy main compartment. Depending on the size of the bag that you pick up, it’s either going to have a 30 liter or a 50-liter capacity. The difference in the price between the two is less than $10, so I doubt that’s going to be the deciding factor in which one you get.

But the sizing probably will – be sure to check out the exact dimensions of both bags, in order to be absolutely certain you are getting a travel bag that you will wind up using very often.

• Unique design
• Waterproof materials
• Lots of internal pockets for easy organization
• Bulkier and heavier than most other foldable bags
• Dimensions: 19.6” x 9” x 10” (30-liter bag)
• Weight: 2.6 lbs (30-liter bag)
• Materials: Waterproof fabric

Kaome 2 in 1 Hanging Toiletry Bag

Here’s another really unique foldable travel bag to consider. The Kaome bag is a hanging toiletry bag , with an abundance of different compartments and pockets that are really great for travel. It’s an awesome bag to have at the hotel room or an AirBnB, where you never have enough room for your toiletries. Ladies with an established skincare routine definitely know what I’m talking about.

The really cool thing about this bag is that some compartments are removable, so you can actually adjust the size and capacity of this foldable bag to suit your needs perfectly. If you remove some of the compartments, the bag is immediately lighter and more packable.

Plus, the two separate compartments have different uses – the detachable one can actually work as a packing cube or a makeup case. The part of the bag that has four sections is great for all your other toiletries, and it even has elastic bands, so that you can attach your phone and watch the news, while you’re trying to make yourself look decent in the mornings.

This is definitely not as lightweight as the foldable totes and duffels that are made from a single sheet of poly, but it’s about a hundred times more functional than them. Plus, you can actually fold this bag two different ways – one turns it into a slim briefcase and the other makes it the size of a purse, so it will still easily fit into your other travel bag.

The Kaome foldable bag is perfect for people who are looking for something that will help them with organization, and not simply a ‘just in case’ bag.

• Excellent for organized travellers
• Versatile use
• Not very packable
• Capacity isn’t really big
• Dimensions: 11.4" x 45” (entirely unrolled)
• Weight: 14.4 oz
• Materials: Water resistant 300D Oxford

Travelon Packable Folding Tote Bag

The Travelon folding travel bag is another great option if you’re looking for a tote. It is made from polyester ripstop , which has decent water resistance. But the bag does not have any additional coating, so don’t expect it to be entirely waterproof.

This tote has a spacious main compartment with zipper closure, and it can fit quite a lot of stuff inside. The high capacity is an upside for sure, but the big size of the bag is definitely a downside. The Travelon folding bag is too big to be an underseat bag, so you would have to choose this as your main piece of carry-on luggage. And I don’t think it’s a great option for that.

The main reason for that is the devastating lack of pockets. There’s a single zippered pocket on the outside of the bag, and that’s it. That is the same pocket that the bag folds into when not in use.

But there is something you will like about this bag – the really long grab handles. They are very comfortable for carrying the bag on one shoulder, mostly because you get that extra space so you can put it over bulkier winter clothing.

And you’ll also like that this comes with a trolley sleeve , so you are able to mount it on top of a large suitcase. That’s great for traveling with multiple pieces of luggage since it frees up one of your arms entirely.

In addition to that, this is a good option if you want an affordable folding bag. You can get it for as little as some $15, which is pretty great.

• Lightweight and affordable
• Trolley sleeve in the back
• Extra long grab handles
• Not many pockets
• Exterior is not fully waterproof
• Dimensions: 5.5” x 19” x 15”
• Weight: 4.8 oz
• Materials: Polyester ripstop

TUMI - Voyageur Just In Case Backpack

If you want a premium foldable travel backpack, then Tumi is one of the best options out there. All of their bags are made from high-quality materials , including the Voyager backpack. So, there’s no doubt that you will own this backpack for a long time, and it’s a great choice if you know that you will frequently use it.

But is it actually worth the money? Honestly, no. It’s way too expensive for what it is, but the same can be said about most of Tumi luggage . And you can sense where I’m getting at – it’s all about the branding, and what it means for you to carry a Tumi item. So, if you want to show off and let everyone know that price is never an object, then by all means pick up this awesome pack.

It also doesn’t hurt that this foldable bag is so stylish that it doesn’t even look like it folds down into a tiny pouch. It is a really cute backpack that you could actually carry everywhere, especially when traveling with luggage restrictions.

This travel backpack features a single zippered pocket on the outside and double zipper access to the main compartment. It’s a pretty small backpack, and it will actually fit under most airplane seats, so it’s a great bag to have in addition to a carry-on suitcase.

Another great thing about it is that it features a luggage strap in the back, which makes it super easy to move around with multiple pieces of luggage.

• Underseat backpack
• Very durable materials
• Dimensions: 15.5" x 12.3" x 4.5"
• Weight: 0.6 lbs
• Materials: Nylon

WANDF Foldable Travel Duffel Bag

This foldable duffel is a great option for you that need a quick and cheap solution. It costs about $10, which is a bargain for a bag with 25 liters of capacity . The duffel is a pretty good carry-on – it will fit in overhead compartments of all airplanes, but it won’t always qualify as an underseat bag.

This travel bag is made from water-resistant material, and it is a great bag to just throw in your suitcase, just in case. But it’s not remarkably durable – the material is pretty thin, and zippers are a no-name brand, so don’t expect this bag to last you years. But honestly, that’s fair for the price – you will get your money’s worth even if you use this bag just 5-6 times.

The Wandf foldable duffel is available in a wide variety of different colors, so there are plenty of options for everyone. It has two sturdy grab handles  but lacks the really long shoulder strap you get on most other duffels.

The bag has an external zippered pocket , which is great for stuff you want to have easily accessible. That’s actually the pocket the bag folds into, and it is the only pocket on the bag. The cool thing about it is that it actually doubles as a luggage strap since the top and bottom of the pocket aren’t sewn onto the bag.

The Wandf foldable duffel might not be the best or most functional option out there, but it’s a great affordable option. If you know that you won’t use a foldable bag too often, but want to have something just in case, this duffel is as good an option as any.

• Very affordable
• Wide color variety
• Features a luggage strap
• No long shoulder strap
• Not very high quality
• Dimensions: 17.7” x 12.6” x 6.3” 
• Weight: 7.1 lbs
• Materials: Water resistant fabric

Travel Lite Foldable Backpack

The Travel Lite Foldable backpack is an awesome option for people who want something affordable but very functional . Backpacks are usually the most versatile option because they’re great for almost everything, from the plane to the hiking trail.

This foldable backpack has ventilated shoulder straps, so it is pretty comfortable to wear. There’s one zippered pocket on the outside, as well as two stretchy side pockets that can fit a water bottle each.

One thing I really like about this foldable travel bag is that it is actually really good quality for the price. The seams are really well sewn , and they will not come apart easily. And the fabric the bag is made from is water-resistant and will keep all your belongings dry in light rain. The zippers are the only thing I’m not a huge fan of since they are kind of flimsy.

The really cool thing about this foldable travel bag is that you can wear it like both a backpack and a tote . Just fold the top part of the bag inside the bottom, and you get a cute little tote that you can just sling over one shoulder. And you can even turn it into a small purse – you will just need a cute, thin shoulder strap.

If you want to fully fold this down, just stuff everything in that front zippered pocket. That’s a lot of versatility and function for some $10, so it’s a pretty great bag even if it’s not the best quality out there.

Pro-tip – the pink version of this travel bag is slightly see-through, so avoid that one if you want to keep the contents of your bag a mystery. The other three colors are entirely opaque.

• Can be worn as a backpack, purse and tote
• Water resistant exterior
• Really affordable
• Zippers are a bit flimsy
• Dimensions: (backpack) 14.6” x 5.9” x 17.7”

Narwey Foldable Travel Duffle Bag Tote

If you want a foldable travel bag that doesn’t actually look like one, the Narwey Duffel Bag is a really good option. Its exterior is made from durable nylon , which is colored and looks really good. The bag is water-resistant, and it will keep the items inside dry in some light rain. On top of that, the zippers on the bag are actually really sturdy and smooth – a really good feature for a $15 bag!

This duffel is kind of big, but it is carry-on sized. It won’t be accepted as an underseat bag on most airlines though – Spirit and Frontier are the only two that will qualify the bag as a personal item.

There is one zippered pocket on the duffel, which is actually the same pocket the bag folds into. It is pretty big, so great for items you want to have easily accessible. And it doubles as a luggage sleeve since it is not fully sewn onto the bag.

One thing I really like about this foldable travel bag is that a longer shoulder strap is included in the purchase. You can carry this in your hands, or you could sling it over your shoulders. The important thing is that you do have the option, which isn’t the case with some other, cheaper bags.

The total capacity of this bag is 30 liters , which is pretty good for a carry-on bag. Especially since the capacity of an average carry-on suitcase isn’t really much more than that.

• Water and tear resistant exterior
• Large capacity
• Very few airlines will qualify it as a personal item
• Dimensions: 17” x 14” x 7”
• Weight: 11.6 oz

What To Look For

What kind of bag.

Collapsible travel bags have one thing in common – they pack down into one of their pockets so that they can fit into the pocket when you’re not using them. But once you unpack them you want – a backpack, a duffel bag , or a simple tote?

Foldable bags come in many different shapes, so it’s important to know what exactly you want from one. I’ve included backpacks, totes, and duffel bags , as these three are the most common types of foldable travel bags that exist.

Duffel bags are the best option if you’re prioritizing high capacity . You will often find foldable duffels that have a capacity of more than 50 liters, which is perfect for people who have to carry a lot of gear while they’re traveling.

On the other hand, backpacks are the best option if you want a bag that’s really easy to carry . They’re perfect for people who want to have full use of their hands while they’re out and about in their travels, and they give you the option of carrying some really heavy items, without actually feeling their full weight.

Totes are somewhere in between backpacks and duffels. They usually have pretty high capacities due to the shape, but with the same organizational capability, you get in a backpack. One, maybe two pockets, and that’s it. They’re the best option for ladies who are used to carrying a tote bag and want to get something that will actually look okay with their outfits, and not like a scrunched-up piece of nylon.

And I included a couple of very unique foldable bags, which aren’t really the first thing that comes to mind when you think of a packable bag. If you’re willing to experiment and want something extra durable and sturdy, I highly recommend you pick up one of those.

Materials And Durability

Most of the bags featured here are made from either polyester or nylon because those two materials are perfect for these bags. They are lightweight , packable, pretty durable, and very easy to maintain.

Nylon is generally a bit more durable than polyester, but that’s not always the case – it heavily depends on the thickness of the material , as well as whether or not a bag has any additional water repellent coating.

The best bags are made from really thick nylon/polyester (400D and up), and will at least be water-resistant.

Additionally, I did include a couple of bags that are made from other materials – these are sturdier, but not as lightweight or packable as the poly/nylon ones.

So, think about what you’re prioritizing – packability or durability ? If you’re okay with a bag that’s a bit heavier but still foldable, then consider going for one of the unique choices I’ve featured.

It’s fair to say that almost all of the bags featured here are affordable . Sure, some are cheaper than others, but the vast majority of the foldable travel bags are under $30. Meaning that you don’t have to spend a lot of money if you want to get a foldable Samsonite bag.

I did include some pricier options, but those are for a very specific type of traveler. And I’ve also included some really cheap options, for people who don’t really care about the features of a particular foldable bag – they just want something they can throw in the suitcase, and which won’t take up a lot of space in the luggage.

So, there are options on both sides of the spectrum. But the vast majority of the bags are in the middle of it, with a price point that is considered affordable by most people.

Best Foldable Travel Bag: Our Top Choices

Not quite sure which of these foldable travel bags is the right for you? Go with one of our favorite bags then – there’s one in each category!

The best foldable duffel bag would have to be the Bug Travel Duffel . The unique design is just amazing, and it without a doubt outperforms all of the other duffels in this review. And not just because of the incredibly sturdy and durable materials, but because of the abundance of pockets, you get on the bag.

That, compared to the one zippered pocket of most other duffels, is reason enough to pick up the Bug.

• LARGE DUFFEL BAG: The size of this duffel is 19.6”(L) X 9”(w) X 10”(H), about 30 L, 1 big and 7 small pockets totally. With its large space and functional design, you can take a lot of things on your trip;
• UNIQUE DESIGN: We use integrated zipper design which is foldable after you pushing the zippers open completely. You can just put it in your luggage and take out when you need to carry more things, very portable;

If you would prefer a foldable backpack , then go with Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack . The brand is known for manufacturing outstanding backpacks, and this is without a doubt the best foldable backpack you can get your hands on.

The ripstop nylon is really durable, while the ventilated harness will keep you cool on hot, sweaty days. And the pack has several external pockets, which will help you organize some of your smaller belongings.

• Premium efficiency and design
• Storage tuned to the each season

In case you’re looking for a simple foldable travel tot e, your best option is the Samsonite Tote . It’s made from really thick polyester and it is lined on the inside, so it is much more durable than the cheaper alternatives.

Plus, the tote has several external pockets , so you will be able to have some items easily accessible at all times. And it is an underseat bag, so you can bring it on a plane in addition to your carry-on suitcase.

• Constructed of sturdy 600 denier PU
• Large main opening easily stores all extra souvenirs acquired during travel

Those are the top three foldable travel bags we recommend. Head over to Amazon to see the prices and color options of all the bags featured in this review.

If you’re thinking that a foldable bag might not be the way to go, check out our related posts for more ideas on great travel bags!

RELATED POSTS:

BEST CARRY ON BACKPACKS BEST TOTE BAGS FOR TRAVEL  BEST TRAVEL BACKPACKS FOR MEN 

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9 Best Foldable Travel Bags and Foldable Luggage

Ashley Rossi

Ashley Rossi is always ready for her next trip. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram for travel tips, destination ideas, and off the beaten path spots.

After interning at SmarterTravel, Ashley joined the team full time in 2015. She's lived on three continents, but still never knows where her next adventure will take her. She's always searching for upcoming destination hotspots, secluded retreats, and hidden gems to share with the world.

Ashley's stories have been featured online on USA Today, Business Insider, TripAdvisor, Huffington Post, Jetsetter, and Yahoo! Travel, as well as other publications.

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Whether you live in a small space and need all the storage room you can get, or you need an extra bag to pack for your return trip home, these nine foldable travel bags fit the bill.

The Best Foldable Travel Bags: Duffels

From hybrid backpack-duffels to collapsible spinners, there’s an easy storage option for every travel style and size.

HEXIN Packable & Collapsible Lightweight Foldable Large Travel Duffel

This large and durable duffel by HEXIN is great to pack with your normal luggage in case you end up buying additional items that can’t fit in your packed bag. It is lightweight and has a shoe storage compartment and an 85-liter capacity. It’s one of the top-rated foldable travel bags on Amazon. Its ripstop nylon fabric protects against water and tearing.

Dimensions: 24 x 9 x 14 inches, folds to 11.5 x 10 x 3 inches.

The North Face Flyweight Duffel

This highly compressible duffel is one of the smallest foldable travel bags on the list. The super-functional duffel is part of The North Face’s Flyweight Collection , featuring 30 percent lighter fabric. The bag has removable shoulder straps and top grab handles, as well as an external zippered pocket and stretch-sleeve pockets. If you’re a light packer, this foldable travel bag is the perfect option.

Dimensions:  13.5 x 20 x 8.5 inches, folds into internal zippered pocket.

Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler Duffel

This 60-liter foldable travel bag packs into its front-end zippered compartment for easy storage. These foldable travel bags also come in sizes small through extra-large. Each size has removable backpack straps, padded top handles, and side grab handles. The U-shaped lid makes for an easily accessible main compartment, and the bottom is foam-padded for rugged environments (or baggage handlers).

Dimensions: Taken from the medium size: 26.5 x 10.25 x 13.5 inches, folds to 13.5 x 10.5 x 5 inches.

Cotopaxi Uyuni Travel Duffel Bag

The Cotopaxi Uyuni is one of the most versatile foldable travel bags out there. While it doesn’t have any special storage features, it lies completely flat and takes up minimal space under a bed, making it easy to stow it. I love this backpack-duffel hybrid because the backpack straps snap under a flap, so they don’t get in the way if you want to use the shoulder strap. The 46-liter size works well as a carry-on.

Dimensions: 20 x 11.25 x 5 inches, folds flat.

Patagonia Black Hole Duffel Bag

This backpack-duffel hybrid is one of the best foldable travel bags out there as it completely folds into itself (admittedly, the first time is a little tough, but with practice it gets easier). The polyester ripstop material, complete with weatherproof TPU laminate and a sturdy water-repellent finish, makes this bag extremely durable in the outdoors.

Dimensions: 28 x 17.5 x 13 inches, folds into itself.

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The Best Foldable Travel Bags: Rollers

Biaggi zipsak line.

The Biaggi ZipSak line offers a variety of folding travel bags, but my favorite is the 22-inch spinner . The bag folds up into a package the size of a packing cube for easy storage, with “MicroFold” technology that shrinks the bag. All the products in the ZipSak line are affordable. The upright bags have four multi-directional spinner wheels and are super lightweight.

Dimensions: Taken from the carry-on spinner: 22 x 14 x 10 inches, folds into a Z-Fold pack.

16 Packing Hacks That Will Change How You Travel

Eagle Creek No Matter What Rolling Duffel

This rolling duffel from Eagle Creek somehow miraculously folds into its own stuff pouch—yes, even the wheels. Available in sizes L and XL , this is one of the largest foldable travel bags on the market. This foldable luggage also has sturdy, oversized wheels, reinforced webbing, and compression straps.

Dimensions : Taken from the L size: 30 x 15 x 14 inches, folds into itself.

Biaggi Lift-Off! Expandable Underseater to Carry-On

Though not fully collapsible, this 2-in-1 bag starts off as an underseater and expands up into a full-on carry-on bag. Separate dirty shoes from your clean clothes by simply unzipping the top lid and pulling up the top fabric in order to reveal a brand-new compartment.

Dimensions: 22 x 14.5 x 7 inches at full size, condenses down to 15 x 14.5 x 7 inches.

Best Carry-On Luggage: Affordable Bags Under $150

Lipault 0% Pliable Collection

Our favorite item in the Lipault 0% Pliable Collection is the Foldable Upright 55/20 . It’s one of the best-quality collapsible bags out there and folds up into its own case. The spinner is soft-sided and lightweight, so you can fit a lot in it without excess bag fees.

Dimensions: 21.6 x 14.6 x 8.6 inches, collapses flat.

What to Pack in Your Foldable Travel Bag

Women’s outfit to wear this spring, shop the look.

Square Shirt

Ankle Skinny Jeans

Hydro Flask

Leather Tote

Wool Runners

Men's shoe-less outfit to wear in spring.

Shielded Money Clip

Wireless Headphones

Waterproof Roll Top Backpack

More from smartertravel:.

• 10 Underseat Carry-on Bags You Can Take on Any Flight
• 9 Great Crossbody Bags for Travel
• Ultralight Rolling Carry-on Bags Under 6 Pounds

Editor’s note: All of these foldable travel bags were available at time of publication.

Some review products are sent to us free of charge and with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions, positive and negative, and will never accept compensation to review a product.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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9 Brilliant Pieces of Collapsible Luggage for the Space-Challenged Traveler

The smartest thing you bring on vacation could be an empty suitcase. we’ve picked our favorite foldable travel bags so you can bring home more souvenirs..

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The lightweight Paravel Fold-Up Bag expands from a small pouch into a duffle that fits all your essentials for a weekend—and it only costs $75.

Courtesy of Paravel

That spontaneous vacation shopping spree boosted your wardrobe significantly, but it dramatically shrunk the free space in your suitcase. To avoid lugging home your new treasures in the paper sack they came in, plan ahead and pack a foldable travel bag.

These are our nine favorite pieces of collapsible luggage—including packable backpacks, totes, duffles, and even roller suitcases—that unfold to offer loads of additional space. Bonus? Many of these can also double as a daypack for when you’re out and about souvenir hunting.

The Away Packable Backpack is available in navy (seen here), as well as black and teal.

Courtesy of Away

1. The Away Packable Backpack

• Buy now: $75, awaytravel.com
• Style: Packable backpack
• Dimensions: 18.1 x 11 x 5.9 inches (7.1 x 4.7 x 2.4 inches packed)
• Capacity: 19 liters
• Weight: 8 oz.

Away launched its first line of packable bags in 2021, with an extra-large carry-all , a small sling bag , and our choice: the Packable Backpack . Constructed with 100 percent recycled water-resistant nylon, this backpack comes with lightly padded shoulder straps for comfort, a zippered interior pocket for organization, and buckle closures to keep your belongings secure. When you’re done, it folds up into a removable zip pouch and stashes away easily.

In addition to black, seen here, the Matador ReFraction Packable Duffle also comes in slate blue and white.

Courtesy of Matador

2. Matador ReFraction Packable Duffle

• Buy now: $50, matadorup.com
• Style: Packable duffle bag
• Dimensions: 21.5 x 11 x 8 inches (7.5 x 5 x 2.75 inches packed)
• Capacity: 25 liters
• Weight: 7.9 oz.

Made from a durable and water-resistant recycled nylon fabric, the Matador ReFraction packable duffle is a 25-liter bag that squishes down to the size of a paperback book and weighs only 7.9 ounces, or the equivalent of a few Snickers bars. Despite its minimalist design, it comes with two external stretch pockets on the front for organization and a built-in shoulder strap.

For those looking for lightweight day bags with a similar sleek design, the ReFraction collection also includes a 16-liter packable backpack as well as a 2-liter packable sling bag .

The Freefly16 Packable Backpack stuffs down into an included sack, shown here in front.

3. Matador Freefly16 Packable Backpack

• Buy now: $80, matadorup.com
• Dimensions: 19 x 10 x 6 inches (3.75 x 3.75 x 5.5 inches packed)
• Capacity: 16 liters
• Weight: 6.7 oz.

For more outdoorsy endeavors, Matador’s Freefly16 Packable Backpack is a great option. As one of the newest additions to Matador’s travel line, it’s designed to perform even better in wet conditions (it’s water-resistant, not waterproof) and weighs less than the previous backpacks by Matador, such as those in the ReFraction series. A rarity for backpacks of this size and weight, it comes with a thin hipstrap for better distributing weight, two water bottle cages (one on each side), and a spacious external pocket for stashing anything you need to reach quickly. It packs down into its own dedicated stuff sack, so you can easily toss it into your luggage and have a quality hiking or walking-about-town daypack on hand when you arrive at your destination. “Overall, I love this bag’s packability, weight, and additional features like the hipstrap,” says Jessie Beck, AFAR’s associate director of SEO & Video. “I’ve used it on at least a dozen trips since getting it, and it’s proven to be durable and sturdy as well.”

This packable bag folds down to the size of a book and comes in six colors, including Safari Green, seen here.

4. Paravel Fold-Up Bag

• Buy now: $75, tourparavel.com
• Dimensions: 18 x 11.5 x 11 inches (9.75 x 8 x 2.75 inches packed)
• Capacity: n/a
• Weight: 16 oz.

Paravel’s ultralight duffle bag can pack into your big luggage for those gotta-have-it souvenir emergencies. The tear- and water-resistant duffle is featherlight and zips neatly into a small pouch when you’re not using it. It’s also AFAR digital content director Laura Dannen Redman’s go-to weekend bag . She calls it the “ Trojan horse of weekend bags ” since it holds so much more inside than you’d expect. She can easily fit two pairs of shoes, two toiletry bags, and three days of winter clothing in it. An added bonus—the sustainable nylon material is made from 22 recycled plastic water bottles.

Paravel’s Negative Nylon Collection also comes with packable backpacks and belt bags that all fold up just like this duffle.

This Patagonia tote pack comes in Burl Red, seen here, as well as four other colors.

Courtesy of Patagonia

5. Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Tote Pack 27L

• Buy now: $99, patagonia.com
• Style: Packable tote pack
• Dimensions: 15.5 x 10.25 x 8 inches (packed dimensions unavailable)
• Capacity: 27 liters
• Weight: 13.05 oz.

Weighing in at just under a pound, this tote pack has both tote straps for over the shoulder wear and backpack straps. It also stuffs into its own pocket for storage. A wide zipper opening allows easy access to belongings, and zipped exterior and interior stash pockets provide enough space for valuables. Nylon ripstop fabric—made with 100 percent recycled materials—makes the bag tear-resistant, and a special finish means it’s water-repellent, too.

As its name implies, the packable Baggu Cloud tote weighs less than a pound.

Courtesy of Baggu

6. Baggu Cloud Bag

• Buy now: $56, baggu.com
• Style: Packable tote bag
• Dimensions: 21 x 13.8 x 8 inches (9 x 7.5 x 2 inches packed)
• Weight: 8.65 oz.

This lightweight packable tote—which comes in fun, limited edition prints or basic black—folds up into an included pouch and expands to a roomy carry-all. Use it as an overnight bag, beach tote , or in emergencies when your clothes just don’t seem to fit into your carry-on the same way they did when you arrived.

Baggu has also expanded its Cloud Bag collection with the same foldable design to include a mini-version that works as a daily purse, a carry-on duffle that fits in overhead bins, and an extra-large version for when you really need to bring everything with you.

The Eagle Creek Packable Backpack 20L is available in black (seen here) and blue.

Courtesy of Eagle Creek

7. Eagle Creek Packable Backpack 20L

• Buy now: $35, amazon.com
• Dimensions: 18.5 x 10.25 x 5.5 inches (7.5 x 5 x 2.5 inches packed)
• Capacity: 20 liters
• Weight: 6 oz.

Eagle Creek’s Packable Backpack is ideal for casual day hikes—and even has a side water bottle pocket. When you don’t need to use it, just stuff it into its side zipper pocket. When it’s packed, it takes up less space than a Nalgene water bottle, so it’ll fit snuggly in your carry-on or checked bag. Made with 100 percent recycled ripstop polyester, this bag is ultra durable but weighs less than half a pound.

The Longchamp Le Pliage Expandable Tote currently comes in Pomegranate (seen here) and Dahlia, a rich burgundy shade.

Courtesy of Nordstrom

8. Longchamp Le Pliage Expandable Tote

• Buy now: $130 (was $230), nordstromrack.com
• Dimensions: 12 x 16 x 7 inches (fully expanded); 12 x 11 x 7 inches (zipped)
• Weight: 12.8 oz.

A packable classic for a reason, all of Longchamp’s lightweight nylon totes can be folded down to the size of a paperback book when not in use. ( Pliage literally means “folding” in French.) But this expandable version also includes a zip inset that allows the bag to go from regular tote size to an extra-large carryall so you can bring all your souvenirs home.

Yes, even wheeled luggage can be packable.

Courtesy of Biaggi

9. Biaggi Zipsak Boost Max Luggage

• Buy now: $90 (was $260), biaggi.com
• Style: Collapsible suitcase
• Dimensions: 18.5 x 9.5 x 17 inches (carry-on); 18.5 x 9.5 x 28 inches (check-in); 18.5 x 9.5 x 4.5 inches (packed)
• Weight: 4.9 lbs.

Made with water- and tear-resistant nylon fabric, the Biaggi Zipsak Boost Max wheeled suitcase easily expands from overhead luggage size to checked bagged capacity with the pull of a zipper that increases the bag’s height from 17 to 28 inches. It’s a great way to save the checked bag fee one way when you want to load up on souvenirs on the way back. When completely zipped up, the bag can easily be tucked under your bed or in your closet for storage.

Jessie Beck contributed reporting to this article. This article originally appeared online in 2018; it was updated most recently on April 4, 2024, to include current information.

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The Best Packable Backpacks for Travel

By: Tim Huber Published: Jul 10, 2023

Though a hard-sided suitcase or a full-size travel backpack should serve as your primary storage solution while flying or on the road, packable bags can make a stellar and sensible addition to any travel loadout, providing a smaller, secondary vessel for shorter excursions that don’t require your complete kit. Whether hitting the trails for a day hike or exploring the concrete jungle of a new city, packable backpacks offer a more streamlined and compact carrying solution to traditional pieces of travel luggage — plus they don’t make their user stick out like a sore thumb or readily announce themselves as being an obvious tourist.

While options in this space have traditionally been fairly limited, the packable backpack and bag space has absolutely exploded in recent years, giving way to an ever-growing number of increasingly lightweight, compact, and utilitarian packs that can conveniently break down and stow away when not in use. With so many bags currently on the market, it can be difficult to know which to even consider, much less buy. So, with this in mind, we’ve thoroughly scoured the segment to deliver this handpicked guide to the best packable backpacks and bags for travel and adventure . Alongside counting down our picks for the best packable bags on the market, we’ll also be delving into which factors to consider when shopping.

The Best Packable Backpacks

Best Minimalist Pick

Herschel Packable Daypack

Best Grab-&-Go Pick

Aer Go Pack

Best Space-Saver

Mystery Ranch In and Out 22

Best Hiking Pick

Matador Beast18

Best Ultra-Tough/Rugged Pick

Hyperlite Mountain Gear Summit Pack

Packable practicality.

The 6 Main Areas To Review When Buying A Packable Backpack Or Bag

While they serve a similar function to regular everyday-focused backpacks, there are more than a few factors that are unique to the packable bag space. Below, we’ll briefly touch on half a dozen of the most crucial areas to take into account when shopping around for a packable backpack.

Video Guide: Best Packable Backpacks

Want a better idea of how these bags pack down? Then be sure to check out our accompanying 4K video review of the  best packable backpacks  for a visual breakdown.

Storage Volume: The entire purpose of a packable backpack is to provide a smaller, more streamlined storage solution so your main suitcase can be left at your hotel or accommodation. As a result, the amount of storage space that one of these bags offers is arguably the most important factor to consider — along with packed size, which we’ll touch on more below.

Weight: While not quite as important as packed size or storage volume, the weight of a packable bag is still more than worth taking into account, as it will be another item that will be added to your larger kit — and its overall weight. Fortunately, these secondary storage solutions have been engineered to be as compact and lightweight as possible, with most models tipping the scales at around the one-pound-mark — though some packable bags are as light as just 0.2lbs.

Materials: Just like with hiking packs or everyday carry bags , the overall quality and durability of a packable backpack will primarily boil down to the materials used to make it — as well as the construction technique(s) used to piece it together. In addition to a bag’s primary construction, you’ll also want to look into whether or not it features a separate liner material, if its bottom (or any other areas) has been reinforced, or if the bag has been fortified through the use of a PU or DWR coating or treatment. Despite the lightweight and packable nature of these bags, quite a few models on the market are actually crafted from some surprisingly hardwearing, high-denier materials, with ripstop nylon and CORDURA being two of the most popular choices.

Hardware: Though a bag’s primary construction is the main factor determining quality and durability, its hardware also plays a key role in its overall longevity, performance, and toughness. This includes everything from zipper tracks and pulls to buckles and sternum straps to carabiners and metal keepers and loops.

Organization & Storage: Unlike office bags or travel packs that are rich with organizational features, packable models tend to be fairly sparse when it comes to pockets and compartments. For this reason, it’s important to review a bag’s internal organizational features, as well as if it has exterior pockets or other storage amenities such as external attachment points or MOLLE webbing .

Packed Size: The primary benefit of a packable bag is that it can be broken down and stored in a larger bag when not in use. As such, the size a packable bag breaks down to is extremely important. Luckily, most manufacturers give a decent sense of just how compact their respective bags get when folded, rolled, or packed. While on the subject, it’s also worth noting that most of these bags come with an accompanying stuff sack, while a few models on the market break down and are self-stowing, fitting into one of their own pockets or compartments.

Selection & Testing Process

How & Why We Got Hands-On With These Particular Packable Backpacks

As always, we began our search for the best bags in this particular segment by first compiling a list of what we suspected to be the best packable backpacks on the market, based on criteria including style, overall design, features and amenities, comfort, hardware such as buckles and zippers, shell material , secondary materials such as the constructions used for items like the bag’s shoulder straps or liner. Additionally, we also looked at not only the total storage volume being offered, but also how small of a form the bag breaks down into when not being used — and how big said form is relative to the internal real estate the carry solution offers when unstuffed. Using these parameters and criteria, we then proceeded to get our hands on each and every model that we suspected of being one of the best of the best — all of which we then put to the test via our hands-on field-testing and review process over the following weeks, allowing us to narrow down our initial list to a final shortlist that we found stands as the latest and greatest the segment has to offer. 

When using these packable backpacks, we tested them in several different ways and judging several different areas. This included not only how the bag operated and functioned compared to a normal backpack — with us paying special attention to whether or not sacrifices had been made to make the thing more packable, or if it could pass as a regular backpack. This included taking into account each bag’s list of features, how comfortable it was, and if it showed any signs of tearing, fading, or failing over the course of our testing. With this out of the way, we then proceeded to spend time breaking down each of these packable bags into their packable form. Doing this for every bag side-by-side-by-side allowed us to not only see which broke down into the smallest and most compact forms, but also which were the easiest to pack, and to unpack. We also made sure to focus on how these bags looked right after being unpacked from their compacted form. 

Our Top Packable Bag Picks

• Packable version of/modeled after Herschel’s ultra-popular Classic Backpack
• Offers fantastic value
• Collapses into own internal pocket
• Sold in huge variety of colors & patterns
• Backed by limited lifetime warranty
• Not as rugged as other more premium packable bags
• Looks very wrinkled after being packed away
• Very limited organizational amenities

Best Minimalist Pick: Offered in more than a dozen different patterns, solid color, and camo options, the Herschel Packable Daypack is about as minimalistic as packable bags get. Offering 24.5 liters of storage space, this bag is modeled directly after Herschel’s best-selling Classic Backpack, sharing its exact shape and silhouette while seeing the regular pack’s polyester or recycled 600-denier construction jettisoned in favor of a markedly thinner and more pliable 70-denier poly ripstop shell. While this may not sound like the most hardwearing material, it actually possesses decent strength, plus if it should fail under regular use, Herschel stands behind the product with a limited lifetime warranty.

The bag is comprised of a single main compartment that’s supplemented via a single quick-access front pocket. The interior of the pack also features an internal self-storage pocket with a snap closure that the entire bag can fit inside when not in use. Herschel’s Packable Daypack also features custom HERSCHEL-branded plastic zippers and adjustable webbing shoulder straps. And, while this minimalistic storage and carry solution is largely devoid of organizational amenities, its incredibly spartan design allow it to break down into one of the most compact forms of any of the packable bags that we tested — backpack or duffel.

Note: The color that we tested the Herschel Packable Daypack in is no longer in production.

Capacity: 24.5L Primary Construction: 70D Poly Ripstop Fabric Weight: 0.41LBs

• Has 210D CORDURA crinkle nylon shell w/ hi-viz orange soft woven lining
• Features great fit & finish for a packable bag
• Equipped w/ full clamshell opening & quick-access front pocket w/ magnetic fastener
• Comes w/ full-size suspended laptop pocket fitting notebooks up to 16″
• Rolls up into highly compact form for easy travel
• Weighs in at only 1.3lbs
• Doesn’t use Aer’s signature 1,680D shell or weatherproof zippers
• Laptop pocket is suspended but not padded

Best Grab-&-Go Pick:  Cut from a 300-denier CORDURA ripstop, the Aer Go Pack is a highly-calculated packable travel bag that can accommodate everything needed for day trips and brief excursions — and then some. Despite, the incredibly compact size that the bag breaks down to, the Go Pack boasts a slew of amenities and organizational features that are typically reserved for more robust travel and EDC backpacks. This includes a dedicated suspended laptop pocket , a luggage handle pass-through, an interior zippered pocket, and dual exterior water bottle pockets.

What’s more, the Go Pack also boasts YKK zippers running along a full clamshell track that provides complete unobstructed access to the entirety of the bag’s contents — though the pack also features a quick-access front pocket that’s secured via a magnetic fastener. Tipping the scales at just 1.3lbs while affording a full 20 liters of internal storage space, this Aer pack also sports an additional soft-lined quick-access top pocket for housing smartphones and other small items, valuables, or badgets. Aer has also outfitted the Go Pack with a range of top-shelf hardware that includes Duraflex hardware and YKK zippers with custom Aer-branded Hypalon pulls.

Capacity: 21.4L Primary Construction: 300D CORDURA Ripstop Weight: 1.0LBs

• Engineered as grab-and-go, do-it-all packable backpack
• Has integrated 2L hydration bladder sleeve & drink tube ports
• Benefits from Mystery Ranch’s usual top-notch build quality
• Cut from rugged & lightweight 100D CORDURA Mini Rip
• Boasts great harness system w/ contoured shoulder straps
• Loaded w/ features normally reserved for non-packable trail packs
• Wealth of features doesn’t allow pack to break down into as compact of a form as it would otherwise

Best Space-Saver: A larger, updated version of the In & Out 19, the Mystery Ranch In and Out 22 is a feature-laden daypack that offers nearly 22 liters of storage volume while breaking down to a size no larger than a Nalgene bottle . Like its 19-liter predecessor, this bag was engineered from the ground up as a grab-and-go, do-it-all carry solution that lends itself just as well to use out on the trail as it does at the airport or railway station. Capable of being stuffed into its own front pocket, the In and Out 22 sports a shroud-style main compartment fortified via a lid flap and a drawstring closure, plus a pair of external zippered access pockets, and dual tool carry loops with securing straps, side compression straps.

Like any decent hiking bag, this model features a comfortable and supportive harness system that’s comprised of a set of contoured shoulder straps fitted with an adjustable sternum strap. What’s more, on top of boasting an exterior stretch-woven water bottle pocket, Mystery Ranch’s In and Out 22 bag also comes outfitted with a two-liter hydration reservoir pocket with internal channels that connect it to drink tube ports just above the its shoulder straps. Constructed around a fixed harness, the bag is also made from a 100-denier CORDURA Mini Rip and features YKK zippers inside and out.

Capacity: 21.9L Primary Construction: 100D CORDURA Mini Rip Weight: 0.9LBs

• Absolutely stellar trail pack that’s highly packable
• Constructed around innovative spring steel frame
• 210D Robic nylon shell is UTS-coated, DWR-treated, & paired w/ 100D Robic Nylon liner
• Exterior has Hypalon-reinforced external daisy chain & oversized water bottle pockets,
• Features fantastic harness system w/ EVA foam-padded breathable mesh shoulder straps
• Packable form is larger than other models we tested
• Robust frame & harness system not needed for many travel applications

Best Hiking Pick: Weighing only 1.3lbs, the Matador Beast18 is a fully-featured alpine backpack that’s also fully packable. Constructed around an innovative spring steel frame, the Beast18 sports a UTS-coated, DWR-treated 210-denier Robic nylon shell that’s been paired with a 100-denier Robic nylon liner. The Beast18 also just happens to — at least, in our opinion — be one of the absolute best hiking and trail packs currently on the market. It’s also worth mentioning that the internal spring steel frame lends the impression that this is a regular, non-packable backpack, making its packable nature all the more impressive and noteworthy.

Sold with an included compression storage sack for travel, the Beast18 also features gear loops for hiking poles, ice axes, or tools, an adjustable sternum strap and removable hip belt, Hypalon-reinforced external daisy chain, oversized water bottle pockets, and EVA foam-padded breathable mesh shoulder straps and back panel — a setup that collectively makes for one of the most comfortable and supportive harness systems that we’ve ever tested. This packable hiking backpack also boasts an asymmetrical dual compartment design with a half clamshell zipper that opens to reveal a key loop and a pair of internal pockets.

Capacity: 18L Primary Construction: 210D Robic Nylon Weight: 1.3LBs

• Made from insanely-rugged yet lightweight DCH150 Dyneema composite
• Constructed using proprietary seam-taping & bar-tacked reinforcements at all key stress points
• Has removable top vertical compression straps
• Weighs less than 1lb & has 20lb carrying capacity
• Rolltop closure, taped seams, & Dyneema shell collectively afford stellar waterproofing
• Limited organizational amenities
• Expensive price

Best Ultra-Tough/Rugged Pick: An insanely-hardwearing alpine pack that just happens to be fully packable, the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Summit Pack is a spartan affair, consisting of a large main compartment with a roll-top closure and a front face adorned in shock cord and four external daisy chains. Made from DCH150 (or DCH50 for the available white colorway) — an ultra-rugged woven Dyneema and polyester hybrid — this highly-durable pack is made all the more hardwearing via the addition of bar-tacked reinforcements on all stress points and a proprietary seam tape on all main body seams.

The Summit Pack has also been bestowed with an Ultralight 3/4″ webbing hip belt, multiple grab loops, removable top vertical compression straps, minimalist shoulder straps with spacer mesh, and an adjustable sternum strap with an integrated whistle. Weighing less than one pound, this Dyneema-shelled daypack comes loaded with a generous 30-liters of storage space and an equally robust 20-pound carrying capacity — a figure that puts a great many packable backpacks to shame. If you’re simply looking for a no-nonsense packable bag with a spartan design — and some exterior features — than it really is hard to beat Hyperlite Mountain Gear’s Summit Pack.

Capacity: 30L Primary Construction: DCH150 or DCH50 (Dyneema Composite) Weight: 0.82LBs (or 0.96LBs)

Seven More Stellar Packable Bags

Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack

Produced in four color choices, the Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack is an extremely svelte backpack that offers 18 liters of internal real estate while tipping the scales at a scant 0.2lbs. Despite the remarkably lightweight nature of this pack, it still manages to bring quite a few amenities to the table, including a dual-zippered main compartment, a top zippered slash pocket, a stretch mesh side gear or water bottle pocket, and an ultra-compact, built-in storage pocket. What’s more, the use of 40-denier nylon ripstop for the bag’s primary construction, accents, and bottom allows for it to be incredibly lightweight yet rugged. 

Capacity: 18L Primary Construction: 40D Nylon Ripstop Weight: 0.2LBs

Dakine Packable Backpack 22L

Another minimalistic yet well-appointed packable day bag, this Dakine item offers 22 liters of storage space in an 18” x 10.25” x 8”, 0.7-pound package. Depending on the colorway or pattern selected, Dakine’s Packable Backpack 22L is crafted from either 115-denier, 150-denier, or 182-denier plain-weave recycled nylon — all three of which are bluesign-approved and fortified via a water repellent finish. Capable of packing into its own internal pocket, this packable backpack also sports lightweight, mesh shoulder straps, an adjustable and removable sternum strap, a mesh side pocket, a dual web handle with a snap loop, and an exterior quick-access pocket. Though it is devoid of a storm flap, the backpack’s main compartment is also protected via a drawstring closure.

Capacity: 22L Primary Construction: DWR-Coated Recycled 115D, 150D, or 182D Nylon Weight: 0.7LBs

The North Face Flyweight Duffel

For those times when a bit of extra storage space is needed, a packable duffel can be a fantastic option. The North Face’s take on the genre — the Flyweight Duffel Bag — provides a full 27 liters of storage space while still being able to break down to a fist-size footprint, stuffing inside its own pocket. The duffel bag’s body is crafted from a combination of 1.7oz nylon and CORDURA which have both been DWR-treated before being paired with 210-denier nylon and 70-denier mesh outer pockets. The bag also boasts webbing handles, an adjustable shoulder strap, and a pair of external, water bottle-sized mesh pockets to supplement its main zipper-secured compartment. 

Capacity: 27L Primary Construction: DWR-Coated CORDURA Ripstop Weight: 0.41LBs

Fjällräven High Coast Foldsack 24

Clocking in at only 1lb, the Fjällräven High Coast Foldsack 24 is a feature-rich, outdoor-focused, 24-liter daypack that rolls up into a water bottle-sized package . Manufactured in eight color options, the High Coast Foldsack 24 sports zippered pockets inside and out, lightly-padded shoulder straps, detachable sternum straps, a removable hip belt, a laptop compartment capable of housing notebooks as large as 15”, and a main compartment that’s secured via a G-hook-equipped storm flap. This five-pocket bag is also made from a 210-denier polyamide construction, and while it doesn’t sport taped seams or waterproof zippers, the use of this heavily-water-resistant fabric `affords the pack solid weatherproofing. 

Capacity: 24L Primary Construction: 210D Polyamide Weight: 1.01LBs

Snow Peak Packable Daypack

For Snow Peak’s take on a packable day pack, the renowned outdoor brand has followed its regular MO, delivering a streamlined and fully-functional bag that’s as rugged as it is minimalistic. Produced in navy blue, OD green, or black colorways, the Snow Peak Packable Daypack features a shell made from a 40-denier CORDURA nylon that’s backed by a repellent finish. In addition to a quick-access front pocket supplementing its primary compartment, this pack also comes with a mini stuff sack that the entire bag can neatly fit inside of. What’s more, the stuff sack also comes with an integrated carabiner that allows the compacted pack to easily be attached to the outside of other larger storage solutions. 

Capacity: 20L Primary Construction: DWR-Coated 40D CORDURA Nylon Weight: 0.41LBs

Waterfield Packable Backpack

Made in America , the Waterfield Packable Backpack benefits from an enormous amount of public and user feedback — intel that ultimately lead to this pack’s proprietary construction, a layered Taslan nylon and tricot woven structure with a micro-porous breathable waterproof coating. Cut and sewn in San Francisco, the bag also features a 400 x 300-denier Silver, diamond ripstop nylon lining, two side pockets, waterproof zippers with custom metal lockable pulls, and a front pocket with a sewn-in keyfob. Sold in five color choices, the entire pack also breaks down and easily stows away inside one of its own pockets.

Capacity: 16L Primary Construction: Proprietary DWR-Coated Layered Taslan & Tricot Structure Weight: 0.75LBs

The Best Hard-Sided Suitcases For Travel

A packable backpack is an excellent addition to any travel loadout, however, the bags aren’t particularly useful without a solid main piece of luggage to store them in. So, if you haven’t already got a main piece of luggage, we highly recommend checking out our guide to the  best hard-sided suitcases  for travel for a look at the finest options currently on the market.

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15 Best Packable Backpacks for Travelers in 2024

Pack light and travel far with using packable backpacks designed to fit inside your main travel pack; these bags fold into compact sizes, blending portability with functionality.

For one-bag travelers, there’s nothing better than packable backpacks. They combine the utility of small, light bags designed for short adventures with the convenience of being able to shove them into a side pocket of your main bag.

Whether you’re taking your big hiking backpack into the wilderness or filling your carry-on luggage for your next trip abroad, these bags are great companions.

You can explore side trails without lugging your tent with you, or take a packed lunch and your camera on your next sightseeing tour. Or simply have an extra bag for all your souvenirs when you return home!

Recently there has been an explosion in the number of these packs on the market. Every year, backpack brands are making their bags lighter, more waterproof , more durable, and more supportive.

While it’s fantastic to have so many options, it can be tough to pick which one is right for you.

I’ve tested dozens of travel backpacks in search of the best ones and what makes each one so special. You might even say I’ve got a thing for a good travel bag, especially a well-constructed carry-on backpack .

Whether you’re a digital nomad, avid hiker, city traveler or just love a good adventure, this list of the best packable backpacks has what you need.

• Best Overall Packable Backpack: Matador Freerain22
• Best Budget Packable Backpack: G4Free 20L Lightweight Packable Backpack
• Most Stylish Packable Backpack: Bellroy Lite Daypack
• Most Versatile Packable Backpack: Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack
• Most Packable Laptop Backpack: Aer Go Pack
• Best Packable Camera Backpack: WANDRD VEER 18L
• Best Waterproof Packable Backpack: Exped Splash 15
• Best Lightweight Packable Backpack: Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil
• Best Roll-Top Packable Backpack: Hyperlite Mountain Gear Stuff Pack
• Best Packable Hiking Backpack: Matador Beast28 Ultralight Technical Backpack
• Best Small Packable Backpack: Eagle Creek PACK-IT Reveal Org Convertible Pack
• Most Comfortable Packable Backpack: Eddie Bauer Stowaway Packable 20L
• Best Packable Everyday Backpack: Matador ReFraction
• Most Durable Packable Backpack: Osprey Remnants
• Most Eco-Friendly Packable Backpack: Cotopaxi Batac 16L

Matador Freerain22 : Best Overall Packable Backpack

If you are looking for the best all-around packable backpack, check out the Matador Freerain22 . This pack stands out from most packable daypacks by offering a fully capable pack for hiking and travel rather than just a flimsy bag with shoulder straps.

Matador has gone out of their way to make the bag as waterproof as possible. With 70D Robic® nylon UHMWPE reinforced ripstop fabric, internally sealed seams, and a rolltop opening, this bag can take some liquid punishment. Seriously, you could stand in a torrential rainforest downpour wearing this bag and still have no seepage into the main compartment!

Unfortunately, the exterior pockets areonly water-resistant, so beware of putting your phones or wallets in there.

Besides the waterproofing, there are many other features that I like about this packable daypack. There is a sternum strap and plenty of adjustment options (without the straps getting too messy). The shoulders have lots of support for carrying bigger loads, and there are gear loops with shock cord captures. Crucially, the material used is designed to be very resistant to wear and tear. Packable backpacks tend to be light and flimsy, so it’s nice to see that this one is built to last.

All in all, it’s a very well-rounded daypack. While waterproofing is the key feature, there is plenty more to like about the Matador Freerain: It’s comfortable, durable, and has all the pockets and features you need.

• Pros & Cons
• Technical Specs
• Cool design
• Sternum strap for added support
• Very adjustable 
• Two water bottle pockets for extra hydration!
• Exterior pockets are not waterproof

G4Free 20L Lightweight Packable Backpack : Best Budget Packable Backpack

G4Free is a brand that makes backpacks in China and sells them on Amazon. No, you shouldn’t expect outstanding quality and durability, but for the price, their stuff is actually pretty good.

Essentially, you have two reasons to buy G4Free 20L Lightweight Packable Backpack : it’s very cheap, and it’s very light. At just 5.6oz, this is a feather-light packable daypack. If you’re concerned about your carry-on luggage weight or being weighed down on the trail, you can leave those worries behind with this packable daypack. The price point definitely leaves you a bit of extra room in your budget too.

However, this packable daypack also has a number of flaws. My biggest concern is the straps, which are made of mesh only. This sheds weight but means there is zero padding, so you’ll be uncomfortable if you’re carrying a heavier load. The bag itself is roomy at 20L, but with no shoulder padding, you won’t be able to pack it full without making yourself seriously uncomfortable.

Furthermore, while this packable daypack has a few pockets, the front zippered pocket zips vertically, making it difficult to actually use.

This is not a bad daypack by any means, and if you are looking for a light bag on a budget, it works. However, if comfort and utility are concerns for you, there are better packs on the market.

• Very lightweight
• Many different styles and colors 
• Unique features 
• Very accessible price 
• Large 25L capacity
• Thin mesh shoulder straps

Bellroy Lite Daypack : Most Stylish Packable Backpack

Bellroy has been around for a while, and they know their stuff: useful, aesthetic gear with features that travelers need. This packable bag definitely fits that bill.

First things first: the Bellroy Lite Daypack just looks really cool. Most packable daypacks are floppy, saggy, and unappealing; Bellroy has found a way to make their version a fashion item. This is definitely one you could wear around the city as well as the trail.

This bag has a streamlined exterior design that gives this bag the kind of sleek aesthetic that Bellroy is known for.

It also has a lot more to it than most packable backpacks. There is a breathable back panel. The shoulder straps are actually surprisingly comfortable. Plus, there is a great array of pockets on the inside to keep everything organized.

The tradeoff is that the Bellroy Lite Daypack is a bit heavier than others on this list, and it doesn’t pack down as small.

If you need the utmost packability, this probably isn’t the best option. For a stylish bag with a few more features that still packs into your suitcase, this is a great option

• Very stylish design 
• Great internal organization
• Better-than-average comfort
• Heavier than many packable backpacks
• Not as packable as other options

Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack : Most Versatile Packable Backpack

Osprey is one of my all-time favorite backpack brands. These guys are the heavyweights of the backpack world, at the top of the game for hiking and traveling gear, and this packable daypack is their latest hit.

Osprey Ultralight is a packable daypack with an extremely minimalist design. There is nothing on this backpack that doesn’t need to be there! You get a water bottle pocket, a tiny zip pocket, and that’s it. The whole thing tips the scales at 4oz and packs down into an apple-sized storage pocket.

It’s like wearing a bag made of air.

You would expect that such a lightweight packable daypack would have made every comfort compromise possible, but surprisingly, it wears quite well. While you would not want to be hucking around a chunky camera or your rock collection in this bag, it’s perfect for your average day trek or sightseeing trip. It has the added plus of being moderately water-resistant, as well as coming in a few funky colors.

This bag is a feather-light way to easily carry your essentials with you, and it won’t add anything extra to your luggage. If you’re on the hunt for a weight-efficient packable daypack, this is one of the best options on the market.

• Space for your essentials
• Sleek design
• Surprisingly durable for such a light bag 
• Protected by Osprey’s excellent warranty
• Not many organization options
• Bottles tend to fall out of side pocket
• Would do better with a hydration bladder

Aer Go Pack : Most Packable Laptop Backpack

If you’re wanting a compact packable backpack that can also carry a laptop (safely), you’re options are pretty limited. Most packable backpacks are very minimal and don’t have a good laptop pocket.

Aer is a San-Fancisco-based brand that specializes in sleek, functional gear for travel and everyday urban use. Like many modern startup brands, they got their start through crowdfunding campaigns. Now they build some of the best travel packs and bags on the market.

The Aer Go Pack is a unique product. It is a full-featured travel/city daypack with great styling, lots of pockets, comfortable shoulder straps, a padded back panel, and a suspended laptop sleeve.

Unlike other packs on this list that stuff down into their own pocket, the Aer Go Pack is designed to pack flat inside luggage. It definitely isn’t quite as compact as other packable backpacks, but I’m willing to make that tradeoff to give my laptop a little better protection.

As far as features go, you get two stretchy side pockets for bottles, a front pocket that’s great for stuffing in a jacket, a top zipped pocket, and a small zippered pocket inside that’s perfect for do-not-lose items like passports.

Even if you don’t need to carry a laptop, this is a great lightweight bag for travel that gives you more comfort and features than most packable backpacks.

• Durable materials
• Comfy padded shoulder straps and back panel
• Suspended laptop compartment
• Stylish design
• Heavier than others
• Doesn't pack down as small

WANDRD VEER 18L : Best Packable Camera Backpack

WANDRD earned its fame a few years ago with a Kickstarter to build a backpack for photographers, and they ended up with the PRVKE . With the enormous success of that initial product, they’ve come back again with VEER, a packable daypack designed for photographers.

This bag’s unique features are impressive and it’s designed to carry a lot of stuff. The standouts are the inflatable components: to save packing space and increase comfort, the back padding is actually a tubing system that you manually inflate. The bag also comes with a space-efficient inflatable camera cube that protects your precious gear from any knocks and bumps.

Structurally, this packable daypack is pretty sound. It wears well, with aerated padding in the shoulders and back for sweat-wicking, and a good fit for your spine’s natural curvature. The sternum strap adds even more support. The bag itself is made of very robust materials and WANDRD offers a lot of compatible add-ons for your lenses and other equipment, plus some daisy chains to lash a tripod onto the back of the bag.

When not in use, it packs to the size of a tissue box.

Would I recommend it to you? Only if you’re a photographer. There are a lot of interesting features in this packable daypack, but the hefty price tag is difficult to justify unless you’re camera-happy.

• Inflatable strap padding and camera cube
• Natural and ergonomic fit 
• Built for photographers
• Sternum strap
• Relatively large when packed
• Not so good for non-photographers

Exped Splash 15 : Best Waterproof Packable Backpack

Most backpacks are made of water-resistant materials, but that doesn’t mean you should rely on them to keep your gear dry in a thunderstorm or on a paddling trip.

The Exped Splash is a unique little backpack. It was originally designed for river swimming, and it draws on Exped’s expertise in drybags to deliver a fully waterproof construction. It has a roll-top opening and fully taped seams, which is something you don’t see often, even in packs claiming to be waterproof.

This bag definitely is not for everyone. It doesn’t have any organization pockets, it isn’t super comfortable, and it looks a bit…unique. If you’re looking for a better all-around backpack that can shed rain, the Matador FreeRain is a better choice.

The Exped Splash is absolutely the best pack on this list though for pure waterproofness. If you’re heading on a kayaking, paddleboarding, or rafting trip and want to be sure your stuff will stay dry, this is the bag for you.

• Roll-top primary compartment 
• Fully taped seams
• Lightweight
• Not great for everyday use

Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil : Best Lightweight Packable Backpack

Just when I thought packable backpacks couldn’t get any lighter, Sea to Summit came along to prove me wrong. I’m a big fan of Sea to Summit products in general, so I was pretty keen to see what this one had to offer.

The Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil weighs 2.5oz. That’s right, two point five ounces! It’s a shockingly lightweight packable daypack that folds up into a keychain-sized pouch.

As you might expect, everything has been stripped out to make this packable daypack lighter. There are no pockets except for the main compartment. There are a couple of webbing loops at the bottom where you can attach a bike light, but that’s the only frill about this backpack.

Sea to Summit has managed to design this packable daypack in a way that is still reasonably comfortable despite its thin shoulder straps and lack of padding, mostly thanks to its innovative stitching and a shape that hugs close to the back. This is a sturdy bag that will stand the test of time, built from durable materials and put together with care.

The standard warnings about light backpacks still apply to the Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil: the lack of padding impedes comfort, and it’s not suitable for carrying a lot of gear. But at 2.5oz this bag takes up virtually no space, and that’s essential for any light traveler.

• Packs down to almost nothing at all 
• Excellent minimalist backpack with only one pocket
• Thin shoulder straps

Hyperlite Mountain Gear Stuff Pack : Best Roll-Top Packable Backpack

Hyperlite Mountain Gear builds some of the best outdoor packs out there, hands down. Their backpacks are all hand-made in Maine, and they use the most advanced materials on the market to give you lightweight, durable, waterproof gear.

While zippers are the standard closure method for backpacks, there are a lot of advantages to a roll-top design. It’s simple, more durable, and can be fully waterproof with the right fabric. Plus, you always look cool opening a roll-top.

The Hyperlite Stuff Pack is a featherweight roll-top backpack that’s designed for minimalist hikers. It’s made from high-tech dyneema composite fabric. Combined with the roll-top design and taped-seam construction, this bag is virtually waterproof. I don’t know if I’d quite trust it on a whitewater rafting trip, but anything other than that should be totally within its water-repelling capability.

The shoulder straps don’t have much as far as padding goes, but they’re wide and well-shaped to deliver the best comfort.

If you’re looking for features, this pack has none. It’s one big top-opening compartment with shoulder straps sewn on. That’s it. You don’t get anything in terms of organization here, but if you’re looking for a simple, durable pack that feels like it isn’t there, this is the one for you.

• Fully waterproof materials and design
• Surprisingly durable for its weight
• No organization

Matador Beast28 Ultralight Technical Backpack : Best Packable Hiking Backpack

If you’re looking for high-performance packable backpacks for hiking and other outdoor pursuits, the Matador Beast28 Ultralight Technical Backpack is a purpose-built lightweight pack for exploring the outdoors.

While it is designed to be packable, Matador didn’t skimp on performance with this well-designed pack. The biggest difference between this and pretty much any other packable daypack is that it has a built-in frame to provide extra support. I was blown away by how they were able to have a framed backpack that’s still packable.

The frame is a spring-steel hoop sewn into the back panel. When in use, it does a decent job at distributing the weight (though it definitely isn’t enough for really heavy loads). To collapse the backpack, you just twist the entire frame, and it folds in on itself into a much smaller package. Crazy!

There is also a removable padded hip belt. Combined with the frame, this works well for getting some of the weight off your shoulders and onto your hips. The shoulder straps are also very comfortable, making this the best pack on this list for carrying slightly heavier loads.

Beyond that, this bag is packed with all the features you’d expect from a fully equipped hiking daypack. There are two stretchy bottle pockets, a hydration bladder sleeve, great pockets for keeping smaller items organized, and loops for an ice axe or trekking poles.

The downside to all these features is that this bag is a bit heavier than the others on this list. It also begs the question: do you really need a packable daypack? If you’re looking for a full-featured hiking pack, you may be better off getting one with just a bit more structure and skip the packability.

• Framed design for great support
• Very comfortable shoulder straps
• Tons of features for hiking
• Heavier than other packable backpacks
• Doesn't perform as well as a more structured daypack 

Eagle Creek PACK-IT Reveal Org Convertible Pack : Best Small Packable Backpack

Do you need to carry just the essentials and want a daypack that takes up the minimal space in your travel bag?

The Eagle Creek PACK-IT Reveal Org Convertible Pack is a unique design based on Eagle Creek’s packing cubes. While traveling, use it like a normal packing cube to keep your stuff organized. Then, when you get to your destination, turn it inside out, and it becomes a tiny daypack.

How’s that for multi-purpose?

It has an organization panel with tons of little pockets to keep your phone, cables, headphones, identification, and other small items compartmentalized during travel, whether it’s in your travel bag or on your back.

• Doubles as a packing cube
• Great organization
• Too small for some people
• Heavier than many alternatives

Eddie Bauer Stowaway Packable 20L : Most Comfortable Packable Backpack

Eddie Bauer was a man who started making outdoor adventure gear almost 100 years ago. To this day, his company is a leader in American adventure gear, and I was excited to test their new packable daypack.

The Eddie Bauer Stowaway Packable 20L is a decent packable bag. It has an ergonomic shape designed to hold your items close to your back and to evenly distribute weight. The shoulder straps have a fair bit of integrity with some padding for comfort. Although, once again, I wouldn’t want to be carrying anything heavier than a water bottle in this bag—it’s just not built to easily carry heavy loads, despite being a 20L.

There are several handy pockets on the outside and inside, but they have made the front pocket a vertical pocket. As I mentioned before, this isn’t a great design feature and it really limits what you can put inside that pocket.

In terms of material and design, this packable daypack really shines. The polyester composite is partially waterproof, meaning that your stuff won’t be drenched in a sudden shower. The designers also thought to include a few loops to attach extra stuff to the back.

Finally, the amount of colors and designs for the Eddie Bauer Stowaway Packable Daypack are pretty awesome. There are some really unique designs on the product website!

• Water-resistant material 
• Good weight distribution
• Padded shoulder straps
• Extra webbing loops
• Lots of color options
• Heavier than other options
• Not great for heavy loads

Matador ReFraction : Best Packable Everyday Backpack

Matador shows up on this list multiple times for good reason. They specialize in making some of the best packable backpacks around, and that shows in their innovative designs and impressive quality.

If you’re looking for a backpack to use every day, the Matador ReFraction is a great choice. It’s simple, streamlined, and stylish. It has just the right features for minimal everyday carry.

Most packable backpacks are pretty bare-bones, with not much besides a single zippered opening and some fabric shoulder straps. That doesn’t work well for everyday carry, because you don’t have any way to organize your stuff.

In true Matador form, the ReFraction changes that with a utilitarian design that includes two water bottle pockets, a top zippered pocket, and comfortable shoulder straps. It’s still very stripped-back compared to a full-featured backpacks, but this packable daypack is one you’ll actually want to use on a daily basis.

• Useful features and pockets
• Durable construction
• Not as light or compact as some alternatives

Osprey Remnants : Most Durable Packable Backpack

Not everyone wants the absolute lightest pack that’s made with featherweight materials. If you are a bit harder on gear, you need something tougher.

Osprey is known for building durable backpacks, and the Osprey Remnants packable backpack. It’s made from tough 210-denier ripstop nylon. That, combined with excellent build quality and a simple design, makes this pack ready to take a beating.

You get two water bottle pockets and a top zippered pocket with this pack, so it offers more utility and organization than many packable bags.

The best part is in the name. The Remnants backpack is made from remnant fabric that’s left over while manufacturing Osprey’s larger backpacks. That means that leftover fabric is being kept from going to the landfill. It also means Osprey offers this bag at a very low price. Win, win!

• Made from left-over fabric from other products
• Very affordable
• Not great for hiking
• Not super comfortable

Cotopaxi Batac 16L : Most Eco-Friendly Packable Backpack

If you’re looking for something truly unique, this is the bag for you. That’s because every single Batac backpack is a unique item, created by the Cotopaxi workers from scrap material from other products. How cool is that? Not only is it unique, but it also reduces the environmental impact of the bag.

The fact that it’s made from leftovers means that each bag is slightly unique in build as well as color. While each bag has the same broad strokes in terms of structure and design, some bags will have slightly different materials in terms of elasticity, breathability, and flexibility. All Batac bags are made with ripstop nylon, so there’s no need to worry about the quality of the materials overall.

Oh, and did I mention color? These bags are a riot of visual delight, with all kinds of different colors patched together according to the whims of the manufacturer. This is definitely the daypack for someone who wants a bit of self-expression.

In terms of packability, this one won’t fold into its own pocket. However, as it is very lightweight and unstructured, so it compresses very easily and takes up relatively little space in a larger piece of luggage.

As far as other features go, there is a vertical zippered pocket down the side which I think is an excellent idea if you are after something in a hurry.

All in all, this is an unconventional choice to be sure. But I love the color splash that these backpacks provide, as well as the knowledge that this bag represents a little less waste in the world.

• Eco-friendly choice as it’s made from leftover materials from other products
• Good design
• Comfy shoulder straps
• A little heavy

How to Choose a Packable Backpack

Packable backpacks are a rising trend in the travel and outdoor adventure world; they provide a valuable addition to any luggage. There are many factors that might go into your decision to buy one. Let’s start with why they’re are a great idea:

• They make it easier to explore side trails if you take one in your hiking backpack. Leave the big fella at the campsite and race ahead with the baby version and some snacks!
• They can be a great addition to your carry-on luggage on the plane. If you’re all about a one-bag travel lifestyle, these packs allow you to be so much more versatile. Plus, it means one less bag to keep track of once it’s stowed in your main luggage.
• They’re super lightweight. They’re great for peak bashing and climbing in the summer.

So, when is a packable daypack not a good idea? If you have to carry a lot of heavy items, such as heavy camera equipment, lots of food, or several days of gear. Unfortunately, the fabrics that make these daypacks just aren’t strong enough to carry that kind of thing!

Let’s have a look at some key factors.

1. Materials

Advances in fabric technology mean that packable daypacks have gone from simple totes to essential equipment. This means there are quality products out there, so you shouldn’t settle for a backpack with the integrity of a supermarket bag.

Make sure you find a packable daypack that will last, ideally built of high ripstop nylon or waterproof sailcloth.

A crucial asset in addition to materials. You won’t be carrying multiple water bottles with these packs (most don’t even have water bottle pockets). They’re designed to be as unobtrusive as possible, and excess weight can be pretty obtrusive. Be careful with how light you want your bag — too light, and the structural integrity will be compromised.

If you think you’ll need to carry lots of heavier stuff, make sure your pack has sternum straps to balance a heavier load.

While this is less of a concern in a packable daypack that won’t be carrying much weight, padding is still important. Not only does it provide that little bit of extra comfort, but good back and shoulder padding (and a good shoulder strap system) also provides air access to wick away excess sweat. Because, let’s face it, no one loves a shirt soaked in back sweat.

4. Weatherproofing

While most packable daypacks don’t claim to be waterproof, it’s nice to know that they won’t get soaked immediately if the rain starts falling. There are waterproof packable backpacks out there, so make sure you take a look if you expect to be walking through wet and rainy areas.

Final Thoughts on Buying a Packable Backpack

While the Matador FreeRain is one of my favorite packable backpacks on the market, it all comes down to choosing what’s right for you and what you want to carry. If you’re a city traveler, you probably don’t need the bells and whistles of a climbing backpack.

At the end of the day, these packs are meant to make traveling easier on you. I hope you find the bag of your travel dreams!

• The Best Carry-On Backpacks
• The Best Carry-On Duffel Bags
• The Best Carry-On Luggage
• The Best Travel Backpacks
• The Best Travel Daypacks

Packable Backpacks FAQs

What is a packable backpack.

A packable backpack is one that can be stuffed or rolled into a small package or into its own pocket.

What backpack fits as a carry-on?

Backpacks under 45 liters work as a carry-on.

What backpacks are good for travel?

Travel-specific carry-on backpacks are the best for travel.

What size backpack can fit under airplane seat?

To fit under an airplane seat, a backpack needs to be less than 18″ x 14″ x 8″.

Does backpack under the seat count as carry-on?

A backpack that fits under the airplane seat counts as your personal item. You can still bring a separate carry-on.

Jeremy Scott Foster

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The Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks

By Kit Dillon

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

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

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

What we considered

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

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

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

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

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

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

The research

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

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

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

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

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

45-liter bag vs. 35-liter bag

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

A versatile small pack for a week or a weekend.

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

Buying Options

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Flaws but not dealbreakers

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

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

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L

Combines more organization with a simple interior.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Osprey Farpoint 40

For long distances on foot.

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

May be out of stock

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

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

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

by Elissa Sanci

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

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The Packable Carryall

With the ability to pack down to fold into a zip pouch, or expand to hold all of your on-the-go items, The Packable Carryall fits all of your needs—anytime, anywhere. This lightweight travel tote bag is made with water-resistant nylon and is thoughtfully designed to be the ideal travel companion for a weekend away, a road trip, and more expeditions.

• Crafted with lightweight, water-resistant 100% recycled nylon
• Packs into a removable zip pouch that connects to the interior when not in use
• Thoughtful interior organization system featuring zipper pocket and loop for storing removable zip pouch
• Zip closure with plastic pulls
• Secures to any Away suitcase for a smooth ride
• Fits airline requirements for carry-on luggage

Materials Recycled nylon Size 15" x 19.7" x 9" Capacity 43L Weight 8.8oz with pouch | 8oz without pouch Pouch size 6.3” x 4.3” x 2.4” Shoulder strap drop length 9.8"

We want you to love everything about getting Away—which is why we offer free returns and exchanges on unused items for the first 100 days. We can only accept returns on unused items, so please gently test them out at home before traveling with them. Learn more about our return policy .

Our bags and accessories are all protected by a limited one-year warranty, which means that if anything breaks in your first year, we’ll fix or replace it. Learn more about our warranty .

Keep in mind that while personalized items cannot be returned or exchanged, they are still covered by our warranties. For shipping info, see our FAQ .

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11 Best Luggage Pieces for International Travel, Tested by Experts

These are the top-tested soft and hardside carry-ons, checked bags, duffels and more to take on your next adventure abroad.

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Best Overall

Samsonite freeform hardside expandable spinner.

Amazon Basics 20-Inch Hardside Spinner

Best Carry-On

Away the carry-on.

Best Checked

Briggs & riley 31-inch baseline extra large expandable spinner.

July Checked Luggage

Best for Frequent Travelers

Travelpro platinum elite softside expandable checked luggage.

Best Budget

Delsey paris helium dlx softside expandable luggage.

Best Rolling Duffel

L.l.bean adventure rolling duffle bag, 135l.

Best Backpack

Cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack.

Best Weekender

Calpak luka duffel.

As you start planning your next trip abroad, looking into hotels, flights and tourist attractions, don't forget that the key to a smooth travel experience is a great piece of luggage. When you're traveling internationally, it's especially important to bring a suitcase that complies with airline restrictions, is comfortable to carry or roll throughout your journey and has plenty of room for all of your belongings and your souvenirs for the trip home.

This top-performing suitcase from our best overall luggage brand Samsonite has repeatedly stood out in the Textiles Lab's and our consumers' tests and is priced under $200 — an incredible value. The hardside carry-on is made of polypropylene and weighs in at just 6.5 pounds, which is one of the lightest bags we've tested, so it won't eat too much into the lower weight restrictions set by many international airlines.

I was impressed by how easy it was to lift and roll the bag around, even when filled with our standard packing load. Despite the lightweight design, this carry-on is spacious with a butterfly-opening, unfolding into two primary compartments for easy packing, and there's an additional one inch of expandable storage with the pull of a zipper.

During our Lab evaluations, we liked how easy it was to pull the bag through our luggage obstacle course. While some testers said the telescopic handle felt a bit loose, the suitcase earned high scores for maneuverability, with testers sharing feedback including "very smooth rolling" and "the wheels moved really well." The material was more prone to scratching than some others we evaluated, but the suitcase proved to be durable overall in our drop tests, resisting major damage.

Listed dimensions: 21.25" x 15.25" x 10" | Weight: 6.5 lbs | Material: Hardside polypropylene | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

With more than 34,000 five-star ratings, t his best-selling suitcase from Amazon Basics is loved by both real users and our consumer testers who say it's worth every penny. Made of lightweight ABS plastic, the hardside suitcase isn't quite as durable as those made of polycarbonate, but the material helps to keep the cost low — under $100 — so I recommend it for someone shopping on a budget.

During our Textiles Lab evaluations for durability, there were some noticeable markings in our scratch tests, but we were impressed by how well the bag maintained its shape after being released repeatedly from our drop tester. Amazon reviewers who regularly use the suitcases say they hold up over time, as well.

When our consumer testers rolled the suitcase through our obstacle course, they were wowed by how smooth the wheels were, with one describing the bag as "very easy to move." We gave the carry-on high scores for packability, as we were able to pack our standard load of belongings (clothing, accessories and toiletries) for a short trip inside with room to spare. Plus, there are interior zippered mesh pockets for easy organization, and the bag expands up to one extra inch for additional packing space.

Listed dimensions: 22" x 14.9" x 10" | Weight: 7.3 lbs | Material: Hardside ABS plastic | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

One of the most popular suitcases on the market, Away's standard carry-on is definitely worth the hype . The bag is available in 11 colors, including on-trend options like green and red, along with neutral hues like gray and black.

Not only is the suitcase simple and stylish from the outside, it's also full of functional features inside to make packing for your next international trip a breeze. The bag unfolds into two separate primary compartments to fit all of your things: one fully zippered side and one with adjustable compression straps, and there are mesh pockets to stash smaller items.

Consumer testers and GH analysts alike love to travel with the Away carry-on, including one who shared, "It fit all of the clothes I needed for a long weekend. It rolled really easily and was light enough to pop in and out of the overhead bin." Testers said the telescopic handle felt flimsier than others they tried, but they were impressed with the bag overall, saying that it was easy to maneuver and roll over different types of flooring, including wood, carpet and tile. And it looked great after our drop and scratch tests, showing no major signs of damage or dents.

Listed dimensions: 9" x 13.7" x 21.7" | Weight: 8.1 lbs | Material: Hardside polycarbonate | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 100 days, unused

Briggs & Riley 31-inch Baseline Extra Large Expandable Spinner

The innovative design details of this softside checked bag from Briggs & Riley help to simplify packing for extended trips abroad. The bag features a unique push-button expansion system unlike any other we've evaluated , which allows you to easily expand the bag, fill it with everything you'll need and then compress it back down to its standard size.

One tester who was impressed with the amount of space in the carry-on version of the bag shared, "It fit clothing and accessories for two people for a seven-day summer vacation." And this checked bag offers more than double the packing capacity. Other innovative features include a built-in trifold garment folder for formal attire and reinforced corners for added protection.

At 15.6 pounds, the suitcase does weigh more than other models we've evaluated, but it is made with a nylon material that resisted wear and tear when I tested it in our abrasion machine. It also earned top marks in our latest round of drop testing. Along with performing well for durability, the suitcase received high scores for maneuverability, with smooth wheels and a sturdy telescopic handle.

Listed dimensions: 31" x 22" x 13.8" | Weight: 15.6 lbs | Material: Softside nylon | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

Rolling a bag through the airport has never been easier than it is with July's classic luggage , including this spacious checked suitcase and its popular carry-on bags . One GH analyst who took the checked bag on a vacation abroad said, "I've never used a suitcase with wheels this smooth." I've personally traveled with luggage from the brand and was blown away by how effortless it was to roll the suitcases, even over carpet and concrete sidewalks.

The telescopic handle technically locks at 20 different heights to prevent it from falling down on its own, and most testers appreciated the slanted grip on the handle, sharing that it was comfortable to hold and easy to maneuver with.

Made with a polycarbonate shell, the suitcase is lightweight and durable, and the corners are reinforced with aluminum bumpers for an added level of protection. The bag held up well after being released repeatedly from our drop tester, but testers noted marks and scuffs on the surface after taking the bag on just one trip.

It boasts 80 liters of packing space and features one fully zippered compartment and one open compartment with a compression panel and Y-strap for security. Even more, it weighs just 8.3 pounds, which is similar to many of the carry-on sized bags we evaluate.

Listed dimensions: 26" x 18.75" x 11" | Weight: 8.3 lbs | Material: Hardside polycarbonate with aluminum corners | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 100 days, unused

Travelpro luggage was created by a pilot who wanted to make bags specifically for other pilots and airline crewmembers who were always on the go. The result is a collection of highly durable, quality suitcases including the popular Platinum Elite medium checked suitcase.

Built to last, the luggage is made of heavyweight nylon material that performed well when I tested it for abrasion resistance. When I released the bag repeatedly from our drop tester, it showed no signs of damage or dents. Our testers also gave the suitcase high scores for ease of use and appreciated the sturdy feel of the telescopic handle. The suitcase does have a more traditional look, though, which some testers described as "old-fashioned," sharing that they wished it were sleeker.

Full of thoughtful and functional features, the suitcase makes packing and traveling a breeze. The bag can be unzipped to reveal one large packing compartment with compression panels that secure your belongings in place, a removable wet bag for toiletries, a large mesh zippered pocket in the lid for breathable storage and a built-in suiter to help keep more formal clothes in tip-top shape. To prevent the suitcase from tipping over when it's full, it's also designed with a unique tapered expansion system, so the bag is narrower at the top and broader at the bottom.

Listed dimensions: 25" x 18" x 11.25" | Weight: 9.8 lbs | Material: Softside nylon | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

While some softside luggage is bulky and pricey, this Helium DLX carry-on from Delsey is lightweight, as the name implies, and it's available for a great value. The polyester material isn't quite as durable or substantial as nylon styles we've tested, but the brand's polyester fabric has performed well overall in our abrasion tests without major wear.

Two external zippered pockets allow for easy access to travel essentials like your phone and ID, so you won't have to hold up the TSA line while scouring through your bag. While the bag unzips to expose only one main compartment for packing, it's equipped with a removable bi-fold organizer and expands by two inches for additional room. One tester said, "I love the pockets." Plus, the inner lining can be fully unzipped and removed for easy cleaning.

I personally carry luggage from Delsey and love the smooth wheels and sturdy telescopic handle, and our testers who tried Delsey's luggage found the handle to be comfortable to grip and use. However, they said the bags were more difficult to maneuver through our obstacle course than others they tested.

Listed dimensions: 12" x 17.75" x 28" | Weight: 8.4 lbs | Material: Softside polyester | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

A rolling duffel like this one from L.L.Bean is ideal for longer adventures abroad or for overpackers like me. The duffel isn't as structured as standard suitcases, meaning you can compress it and slide it under your bed or in a closet if you're pressed for storage space — and on the other hand, you can really fill it to the brim when you're packing. Just be careful that you're not stuffing it too much because it can be easy to exceed an airline's weight restrictions.

One GH analyst who loves to travel with this bag said that it's one of her go-to picks for family vacations. With just two wheels, our analyst said it's a little more cumbersome to maneuver than a spinner suitcase, but you also have the option to carry the bag with the padded strap.

The bag has a wide opening for easy access to everything you need inside, and outer compression straps keep everything in place. Made of durable polyester material with a reinforced base, the duffel lasts for years and years without signs of wear, according to our analyst. Plus, it's water-resistant inside and out — perfect for inevitable leaks or wet weather. If you're looking for something smaller, the brand carries a variety of sizes to meet your travel needs.

Listed dimensions: 14" x 17.25" x 32.5" | Weight: 8.8 lbs | Material: Softside polyester | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 1 year

When we evaluated this bag in the Textiles Lab, we were amazed by just how much we could fit inside during our packing tests. Not only did it beat out other travel backpacks we tested, it also outperformed some of our carry-ons because of its spacious interior .

The backpack has a suitcase-style opening and fully unzips to expose a highly organized interior jam-packed with zippered mesh pockets for all of your belongings. It also features a padded laptop sleeve that fits up to a 17-inch computer.

Made of recycled nylon and polyester, the bag is durable and water-resistant. When I tested it for abrasion resistance in the Lab, there were no visible signs of wear. Details like a sternum strap, waist belt and padded mesh provide comfort and support. With backpack straps that tuck neatly inside the back of the bag and carrying straps on all sides, you can easily grab it to lift into an overhead bin.

Some online reviewers wished it was equipped with a water bottle holder and said the zippers can be finicky, but we didn't have issues with them in the Lab.

Listed dimensions: 22" x 12" x 10" | Weight: 3.5 lbs | Material: Softside polyester and nylon | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

Able to hold everything you need for a weekend getaway, this weekender from Calpak was the top performer in our Textiles Lab tests. Not only is the bag totally on-trend, thanks to the puffy padded design and fashionable color options, it's also full of functional features . One tester who used it as her personal item on a long trip said, "This bag fits everything I need and more!"

A GH analyst who used the bag added, "I appreciate the well-organized interior," which includes several zippered pockets and elastic storage. Outside, there's a separate shoe compartment, additional zippered pockets and a water bottle holder. Altogether, there are nine pockets, and the spacious bag aced our packing tests.

If you're pairing it with Calpak's popular luggage , this bag has a trolley sleeve that slides right over the telescopic handle of your suitcase. One tester noted that the stitching that secured the sleeve in place started unraveling a bit after just one use. The bag is made of a smooth polyester material that's comfortable to carry and water-resistant. A tester said, "It poured while I was traveling and everything inside this bag stayed perfectly dry."

Listed dimensions: 12" x 16" x 7" | Weight: 2 lbs | Material: Softside polyester | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler 40L Duffel Bag

This convertible duffel from Eagle Creek is the perfect adventure travel companion. The bag is durable, combining polyester and nylon for a water-resistant material that also held up well when tested for abrasion resistance . One GH analyst who travels with this duffel said that it still looks great after years of regular rough and tough use.

It's structured and maintains its shape for easy packing, but the duffel can be compressed to bring inside of your suitcase as an extra bag or for compact storage at home. According to our testers and GH analyst, the zippers have large pull tabs that are easy to use, and, according to the brand, they're covered in water-resistant strips for the ultimate protection in wet weather.

The duffel features a reinforced top handle and grab handles along the sides for carrying, and there are adjustable backpack straps for hands-free use that can be connected for an additional carrying strap or tucked inside the bag. Some online reviewers said the backpack straps are on the thinner side and weren't as comfortable as other traditional travel backpacks, but they appreciated the convenient option.

Listed dimensions: 11.5" x 23.25" x 11" | Weight: 2.5 lbs | Material: Softside polyester and nylon | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

Amanda (she/her) researches and reports on products in the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab, ranging from clothing and accessories to home furnishings. She holds undergraduate degrees in apparel merchandising and product development and advertising and marketing communications, as well as a master of science degree in consumer sciences from The Ohio State University. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2022, Amanda was a lecturer for the fashion and retail studies program at Ohio State, where she taught fashion and textiles courses.

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The 12 best travel purses of 2024.

Find the ideal companion for your journey with features like anti-theft or hands-free capabilities.

The Best Travel Purses

Courtesy of Lo & Sons

Planning summer travels includes determining what purse works best for your itinerary. If you're going abroad, you may want anti-theft features and compartments with space for glasses, passports, sunscreen and more – but you can also find plenty of extras like built-in wallets, hidden pockets and key ring attachments. There's a wide range of different styles on the market to suit your travel purse needs.

U.S. News editors tapped travel experts for their top picks and researched dozens of review sites, including Amazon, online retailers, travel industry review sites and more, to come up with this selection of the best travel purses.

Best Overall: TUMI Voyageur Tyler Crossbody

• Jump to features and traveler insights ↓

Best Crossbody: Lug Ranger 2 Crossbody Bag

Best for europe: minooy eirene crossbody bag, best anti-theft: travelon anti-theft crossbody bag, best shoulder bag: vera bradley glenna satchel, best messenger bag: tory burch nylon small messenger, best backpack purse: calpak luka mini backpack.

• Best Small Travel Purse: Lo & Sons The Waverly 2 Small

Best Packable: LeSportsac Deluxe Everyday Bag

Best belt bag: dagne dover ace fanny pack, best sling bag: cluci small sling bag for women, best convertible: augustnoa mini noa.

(Note: Prices were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to demand or other factors. We update this article regularly to ensure the bags we're recommending are in stock and continue to have great overall reviews from consumers, while also considering new product launches. Dimensions are listed in order of length by height by width.)

Courtesy of TUMI

What sets it apart: This sleek design blends fashion with function. The Tyler Crossbody by TUMI has multiple organizational features, including a spacious main compartment for a passport, camera and other personal essentials; a U-shaped front pocket with a leather card pocket and key leash; two front zippered pockets; and a back slip pocket. The upscale nylon construction is durable yet polished and it can be spot cleaned for when those spills happen. What's more, the detachable leather charm can be monogrammed.

Expert review: "This is one of my go-to handbags for any trip – especially European vacations," says Rachael Hood , a senior travel editor at U.S. News. "The pockets and separate compartment keep everything organized and quick to find. The nylon construction has a silky and upscale feel, and the overall design is versatile for travel or daily use."

Price: $295 or less

Courtesy of Lug

Full of organizational details, the Lug Ranger 2 has multiple compartments to keep essentials neatly stowed. The front zippered compartment has a built-in wallet with RFID protection and a key leash. Just above that, you'll find a magnetic-closure slip pocket on the front of the bag for your cellphone, to make answering a call or taking a selfie easy. The main internal compartment can fit your camera, snacks and personal essentials. There are two slip pockets for sunglasses or cords, plus a clear zippered pocket for sunscreen, lotion or other small liquids. The back zippered compartment has two pen slots and is ideal for wipes, a passport or other travel-related items.

Expert review: "I use this bag at least weekly, and I really like this design for weekend road trips," says Hood. "I have multiple colors and prints that I like to switch out for seasonality, and the wipeable and water-repellent material is forgiving, whether it's raining, snowing or I spill my latte."

Price: $80 or less

Courtesy of Minooy

What sets it apart: When traveling abroad, versatility is key, and this chic design by Minooy offers just that. Constructed of high-quality full-grain leather in a choice of four classic colors, this multicompartment travel purse is packed with details. The separate main zippered pocket keeps everything from lipstick to a phone cord in its place. The crossbody bag offers understated luxury, the RFID-blocking internal compartment has six card slots, and the outside zippered pocket can hold up to an iPhone 14 Pro Max or Galaxy S22 Ultra.

Expert review: Marisa Méndez , senior travel editor at U.S. News, adores this purse. "I love how soft the leather is on this bag as well as all of the pockets and loops for organization," says Méndez. "My favorite feature is that the entire bag is RFID-blocking so I don't need to worry about carrying a wallet; I can just use the card slots in the bag."

Price: $159 or less

Courtesy of Travelon

What sets it apart: Protecting your valuables is always important, but when you're traveling it's even more vital. This bag features Travelon's patented five-point anti-theft system, which includes slash-resistant handles and mesh panels within the walls of the bag. The bag also offers RFID protection, a locked main compartment, and the ability to fasten the bag to a chair or post to deter a thief in a restaurant, train station or airport.

Travelers appreciate: The lightweight construction of the bag, combined with the theft-proof security features and multiple pockets, makes this a traveler favorite. Owners of this bag say it holds all of your travel essentials from passports to sunglasses, and that it holds up well after years of use.

Price: $70 or less

Courtesy of Vera Bradley

What sets it apart: Machine-washable and available in an array of eye-catching prints to suit your style, the Glenna Satchel is a large shoulder bag ideal for city adventures, day trips, shore excursions and daily activities. The spacious main compartment has a zip pocket and three slips, along with room for a book, tablet, planner, phone and wallet. There are two exterior slip pockets to stow things like maps or handouts, and a hidden zip pocket on the outside as well to secure smaller items. For added options, the drawstring adjusts the size of the bag depending on your needs.

Travelers appreciate: Fans of this bag praise the functionality and the pretty print options of the satchel. Though, some do note that the straps could be longer.

Price: $110 or less

What sets it apart: Constructed with a 100% recycled nylon shell and trimmed in leather, this design gives major '90s vibes in all the best ways. The unstructured messenger bag is perfect for travel with an interior compartment for your wallet, phone, keys and more, plus an interior slit pocket and zippered pocket to keep valuables secured. The front exterior pocket of the bag zips, and the back slit pocket is ideal for your phone or items you want to reach quickly. Finished with a magnetic closure flap and a removable crossbody strap, this bag adds an element of style to your travel wardrobe.

Travelers appreciate: Lightweight, practical and functional are a few of the words bag owners use to describe this messenger bag. They say it works well for sightseeing, and that the bag can hold a lot without looking clunky or overstuffed.

Price: $248 or less

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Courtesy of CALPAK

What sets it apart : Designed with travel in mind, this mini backpack has a luggage trolley sleeve and matches the duffels and other items in the CALPAK Luka collection. You can put your tablet, wallet and other must-haves in the interior compartment; your cell phone and a travel umbrella in the exterior side pockets; your passport in the hidden back zippered pocket; and other items in the front zippered compartment. The bag's lining is water-resistant, the puffy exterior is soft and comfortable to carry, and the straps are adjustable to suit your needs.

Expert review: "The compact and functional design makes is possible to pack my iPad, reading material, a wallet and even a camera," says Hood. "Plus, I can coordinate my purse with other CALPAK Luka luggage items. The only downside is the two exterior pockets are a bit small, as they can't hold a water bottle."

Price: $72 or less

Best Small Travel Purse: Lo & Sons The Waverly 2 Small

What sets it apart: For a compact design with adaptability, this Lo & Sons design checks all the boxes. This convertible style has a two-part strap to transform into a belt bag, crossbody, clutch, shoulder bag or wristlet with ease. The neatly organized interior compartment has space for your phone and essentials with a three-slot zippered pocket, an interior slip pocket, and an exterior card slot ideal for a room key or transit card. Offered in a choice of natural-grain nappa leather, scratch-resistant textured Saffiano leather or plant-based cactus leather, this style can easily go from day to night or boardroom to ballgame.

Travelers appreciate: Buyers of this bag really like the option to adjust the strap to suit the day's events. They compliment the quality construction and overall look, with many saying it's great for travel because it can easily fit into a duffel or backpack.

Price: $178 or less

Courtesy of LeSportsac

What sets it apart: Made of recycled ripstop nylon, this lightweight and durable handbag can easily be packed into your suitcase and pulled out for use when you arrive at your destination. It lays flat when not full of your belongings. This roomy travel purse has plenty of space in its two main compartments for a wallet, water bottle, cell phone, on-the-go necessities and a few fun things you find along the way. The front has two exterior zippered pockets, and there's a back zippered pocket as well. With the adjustable crossbody strap, the bag can also be worn as a shoulder bag. What's more, LeSportsac continuously adds to the color and pattern choices in this classic bag with everything from beloved animated characters to florals or plaid.

Travelers appreciate: Handbag owners rave about the pockets, durability and color options for this style. Many note while it is great for travel, it's also ideal for everyday use with plenty of space for everything.

Price: $105 or less

Courtesy of Dagne Dover

What sets it apart: Offered in a choice of neoprene or air mesh, this versatile option is U.S. News' top fanny pack pick . This hands-free belt bag has an adjustable belt, a small front zip pocket (a great spot to stash cash for tipping) and a back panel exterior credit card. The roomy main compartment comes equipped with an elastic loop, a key clip and a card pocket to keep things easy to find.

Travelers appreciate: Wearers of this belt bag like the quality construction, color options and the overall versatility of the design. They also compliment the fabrication and say it holds the essentials without being bulky.

Price: $95 or less

Courtesy of CLUCI

What sets it apart: Available in a wide variety of colors, this hands-free crossbody bag is perfect for those on the go. The three zippered pockets are roomy enough for travel essentials like keys, sunglasses, lipstick, wallet and sunscreen. Place your ID and credit cards in the five interior card slots, so you can leave your wallet at home. The back pocket of this sling bag is ideal for keeping important items close to your body to prevent theft, and the adjustable strap makes it comfortable to carry.

Expert review: "My favorite travel purse is the vegan leather crossbody bag by CLUCI," says Sharael Kolberg , a U.S. News travel contributor. "Not only is it environmentally and animal-friendly, it's also stylish and easily fits my wallet, passport, reusable water bottle and snacks. Plus, the front pocket allows easy access to my smartphone."

Price: $25.99 or less

Courtesy of augustnoa

Compact and versatile, this sustainable style can be carried as a crossbody, an over-the-shoulder bag or a backpack. On the outside, there's a zippered front pocket ideal for a room key, transit card or lip gloss. The interior has a deep slip pocket, a mesh zippered pocket and a spacious compartment with room for a phone, a small point-and-shoot camera, hand sanitizer, a wallet, your passport and other essentials.

Expert review: "I love the carrying options of this bag, and the gold hardware really elevates the look of the purse. I find myself using this bag on walks and adventures where I want to bring my phone and camera," says Hood.

Price: $89 or less

Frequently Asked Questions

For European vacations, a lightweight and versatile style is key. Choosing a neutral color like black, brown or a metallic fabrication can help you take the same handbag anywhere from sightseeing to a nice dinner. A built-in wallet, anti-theft and RFID protection, and space for must-carry items are important. You'll also want to decide whether to carry your passport within your purse or have a concealed passport holder you wear under your clothing.

Purses with anti-theft straps are safest. Also, crossbody and belt bags that you wear around your body rather than a shoulder bag can help with safety.

You need to have space for your identification and passport for trips abroad, as well as credit cards, cash (have some easily accessible for tipping or street vendors), medications, prescription eyeglasses, sunglasses, hand sanitizer or wipes, and your phone.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Rachael Hood has had a serious love for handbags her entire life. For everything from daily errands to global journeys, she has tried a variety of travel purse styles from an array of brands, discovering the good, the bad and the very best options. For this article, Hood used her personal experience along with retail merchandising background and research expertise to curate this list.

You might also be interested in:

• Editor Picks: The Top Travel Accessories
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• The Top Toiletry Bags
• The Top Clear Stadium Bags
• The Top Carry-on Luggage Pieces

Tags: Travel , Travel Gear

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Highly-rated luggage from Amazon for every type of trip

Choosing a piece of luggage or a travel bag can be a highly personal thing. The style you choose (duffel, spinner, backpack, etc.), the material it’s made out of and the color all come down to an individual’s preferences. Despite these preferences, everyone is looking for some thing durable, that can fit all of your  travel essentials  and make your journey easier.

Below, we’ve compiled 15 different pieces of luggage sold on Amazon. They have different features, but are all highly-rated and under $100. 

SKIP AHEAD Top-rated luggage and travel bags

Selected. Our top picks

select Planning a short weekend trip? These bags can keep your travel essentials in one place.

How we picked top-rated luggage and travel bags.

What you’ll need in your luggage will depend on the type of trip you’ll be taking and what you will be packing. That said, there are a few universal factors we looked for when selecting luggage and travel bags from Amazon.

• High ratings: We only considered bags that had a 4-star average from at least 1,000 reviews on Amazon. We paid special attention to those with even higher star averages and thousands of reviews.
• Size: Most of the bags on our list can be used as carry-ons, but we included a few larger options as well.
• Style: Some people prefer a duffel bag, while others may like a bag with wheels. To address all preferences, we included a variety of shapes and styles. 

Top-rated luggage and travel bags

We compiled highly-rated luggage and travel bags sold on Amazon in different styles — including rolling bags, duffel bags and backpacks — to help you find the right bag for your needs and preferences. 

Ibfun Weekender 3-Piece Set

With this set, you get a weekender bag, a crossbody purse and a toiletry bag. The bottom of the weekender bag unzips to reveal a compartment that can fit up to three pairs of shoes, according to the brand. The bag has a top handle but also comes with a longer shoulder strap. The toiletry bag has a wrist strap and the crossbody back has a small pocket sleeve on the inside to hold keys or your wallet. This set has a 4.5-star average from over 4,500 reviews and comes in 19 colors. 

Dimensions: 20.5 x 9.5 x 13 inches (weekender), 10 x 9 inches (crossbody), 7 x 4.5 inches (toiletry) | Material: Canvas and faux leather | Carry-On: Yes

Narwey Foldable Travel Duffel Bag

Made specifically to fit personal item dimensions, this bag will fit under the seat on most airlines, according to the brand. It is made from water-resistant nylon and has long, reinforced straps to fit over your shoulder, according to the brand. It has one large main compartment and a smaller zippered pocket on the outside and it can be folded up into a small square when not in use. This bag has a 4.4-star average from over 19,800 reviews on Amazon and it comes in over 20 colors. 

Dimensions: 18 x 13 x 6.3 inches | Material: Nylon | Carry-On: Yes

Wonhox Large Travel Tote Bag

This bag is expandable — just unzip the bottom to add an extra four inches of length to the bag. Inside you’ll find a large main compartment, three smaller pockets and a separate zippered pocket to store wet clothes in. When expanded, this weekend bag can fit two pairs of shoes, three to four outfits, a cosmetic bag and a laptop, according to the brand. It comes in a variety of colors (like pink , khaki and white ) and has a 4.7-star average from over 2,600 reviews on Amazon. 

Dimensions: 16.1 x 14.5 x 8.6 inches | Material: Polyester | Carry-On: Yes

Etronik Travel Duffel Bag

Available in medium and large sizes, both of which are carry-on compliant, this weekender bag has a USB charging port on the outside that you can plug your phone into when it needs some juice. Both sizes also have a separate shoe compartment, a separate compartment inside for wet clothes, a luggage trolley strap so you can slip it over a spinner suitcase and a detachable shoulder strap. This bag has a 4.5-star average from over 6,200 reviews on Amazon.  

Dimensions:  18.5 x 14.2 x 8.7 inches (medium), 21.7 x 16.5 x 9.4 inches (large) | Material: Nylon | Carry-On: Yes

Bagsmart Quilted Weekender

This duffel from Bagsmart, a brand that also makes highly-rated toiletry bags , has a 4.7-star average from over 2,380 reviews on Amazon. It comes in medium and large sizes, both of which meet most airlines’ requirements for carry-ons. Along with the main compartment, there are three small pockets on the inside. The outside of the bag features a pocket for a water bottle, a large zippered pocket for a laptop and a smaller zippered pocket for things like keys or your wallet. 

Dimensions:  19.5 x 8.2 x 11.5 inches (medium), 21.2 x 8.7 x 12.3 inches (large) | Material: Polyester | Carry-On: Yes

Bagsmart Overnight Bag

Slightly smaller than the medium weekender from Bagsmart, this quilted option can be used as a gym bag, overnight bag or hospital bag, according to the brand. It has a 4.6-star average from over 2,200 reviews on Amazon and comes in 11 colors, including pink , black and navy . The bag includes a removable shoulder strap, an outer pocket for a water bottle and multiple inner pockets. 

Dimensions:  18.5 x 11 x 8.5 inches | Material: Polyester | Carry-On: Yes

Wildroad 50L Travel Duffel Bag

When not expanded, this bag meets most carry-on requirements. Need something bigger (even if you have to check your bag)? Unzip two zippers to add four inches of length to this bag. The main compartment also has two large zippered pockets to store things in. This bag comes with a top handle, as well as an adjustable shoulder strap and a trolley sleeve. Choose from colors like army green , black and blue , all of which have brown faux leather accents. This bag has a 4.7-star average rating from over 1,100 reviews on Amazon. 

Dimensions:  20.8 x 10.2 x 11.8 inches | Material: Canvas and faux leather | Carry-On: Not when fully expanded

G4free Sling Bag

Keep your hands free with this sling bag, which is worn over one shoulder and across your back. The large, main compartment can fit items like a laptop, books or tablets. Then, there are three smaller zippered compartments on the outside of the bag to fit things like your wallet, keys and more. There is also a small zippered compartment on the strap that goes across your chest, to provide easy access to things you may need to grab quickly (like your phone). This bag is made with water-resistant nylon and has a 4.5-star average from over 5,600 reviews on Amazon.

Dimensions: 16.5 x 3.5 x 9.4 inches | Material: Polyester | Carry-On: Yes

Waterfly Crossbody Sling Backpack

This nylon crossbody from Waterfly, which was expert-recommended as a great travel accessory , comes in 17 colors and has an adjustable, reversible shoulder strap, lots of pockets (including two mesh side pockets) and a hidden earphone hole. It has a 4.5-star average from over 35,000 reviews on Amazon. 

Dimensions: 7 x 3.5 x 15  inches | Material: Nylon | Carry-On: Yes

Cuero Large Leather Duffel 

Cuero Large Leather Duffel

Made from real leather, this large duffel has a 4.4-star average from over 3,000 reviews on Amazon. It has a large main compartment and two medium-sized side compartments that can hold your shoes, tech or other items you want to keep separate from everything else. It also has two front pockets that you can use for smaller items. You can carry it by its top handle or use the double shoulder strap. This bag also comes in smaller sizes — including options that are 24 , 28 and 30 inches long. 

Dimensions: 32 x 11.5 x 10  inches | Material: Leather | Carry-On: No

Baosha HB-28 Canvas Weekender

This highly-rated bag has a 4.8-star average from over 3,500 reviews on Amazon. The main compartment can hold enough for a one to two-night trip and has a separate compartment at the bottom for shoes, according to the brand. It can be worn over your shoulder via shorter double shoulder straps or a longer detachable strap and it also has a trolley sleeve. 

Dimensions: 16 x 12 x 8  inches | Material: Canvas and faux leather | Carry-On: Yes

Coofay Travel Backpack

Think of this bag as a duffel that can be worn on your back. The bag unzips on three sides, much like a rolling suitcase and can fit three to four days’ worth of clothes, according to the brand. It also has a laptop compartment, a wet pocket and a separate shoe pocket. Padded shoulder straps also provide comfort when wearing it for long periods of time, according to Coofay. This bag has a 4.7-star average from over 2,700 reviews on Amazon. 

Dimensions: 16.5 × 11.8 × 5.9  inches | Material: Nylon | Carry-On: Yes

Wonhox Travel Backpack

Similar to the option from Coofay, this travel backpack comes in large and extra-large sizes, both of which meet the requirements to be a carry-on on most airlines. There is a separate compartment for shoes, an internal sleeve for a laptop and padded straps for comfort. This travel backpack has a 4.6--star average from over 6,000 reviews and comes in 10 colors — including purple , beige and green . 

Dimensions: 16.9 x 11.8 x 7.9 inches (large), 18.5 × 12.2 × 8.6  inches (extra large) | Material: Nylon | Carry-On: Yes

Wrangler Wesley Rolling Duffel Bag

This checked-size duffel bag can be carried by a dual top handle or you can pull out the retractable handle and glide it on two inline wheels. Along with the main compartment, there are four smaller outer compartments for added storage. This bag has a 4.3-star average from over 5,100 reviews on Amazon. 

Dimensions: 30 × 13 × 12  inches | Material: Polyester | Carry-On: No

Why trust NBC Select?

Bethany Heitman is a contributor at NBC Select and a journalist who regularly covers topics like beauty, home and lifestyle. For this story, she looked for top-rated luggage and travel bags for this story. 

Catch up on Select’s in-depth coverage of personal finance , tech and tools , wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook , Instagram , Twitter and TikTok to stay up to date.

Bethany Heitman is a contributing editor at NBC Select.

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10 Surprisingly Spacious Personal Item Bags to Score Ahead of Your Summer Travels — From $10

Shop comfy backpacks, duffels, and tote bags up to 67 percent off.

Travel + Leisure / Tyler Roeland

Even when flying coach, travelers often have the option to pack a personal item alongside their carry-on luggage — and if you’re smart, you’ll optimize that additional space wisely. A good personal item should be unassumingly roomy while still fitting under the seat of most commercial airplanes, but most of all, it should be easy to carry alongside your existing suitcase. Whether you’re partial to a backpack, a duffel, or even a large purse as your bag of choice, Amazon is equipped with the best gear for the job.

With options from brands like Rockland , Travelpro , Matein , and more, we’ve rounded up the 10 best personal item bags on sale at Amazon right now. And seeing as deals extend up to 67 percent off, we’re sure you’re not going to want to miss out. Regardless of what trips you’re looking forward to in the near future, you’ll have no trouble finding a selection that fits your exact requirements — starting at just $10.

Narwey for Spirit Airlines Foldable Travel Duffel Bag

The hallmark of any good personal item is its ability to easily fit under your airplane seat without taking up valuable foot space, and seeing as this Narwey tote is specifically designed with Spirit Airlines in mind, it excels in this arena. The compact bag sits at 18 inches by 13 inches by 6.3 inches which fits within the guidelines of even the strictest commercial airlines, plus, it’s incredibly lightweight and packs up tightly when not in use. With durable straps, a waterproof exterior, and an overall convenient design, this bag is the perfect personal item for any trips you may have planned this summer.

Matein Carry-on Backpack

Keeping your hands free while traveling can make the entire experience significantly easier, and this roomy Matein backpack will help you do just that — and it’s even on sale for just $34 right now. The exterior of this bag is made with water-resistant material that will keep your valuables safe and dry, while the extra large design opens like a suitcase with the capacity to fit up to five days of clothing and essentials within. It measures in at 19 inches by 13 inches by 6 inches, and even meets the parameters of airlines such as Easy Jet, Spirit, and JetBlue. A ventilated back panel remains cool, comfy, and supportive, plus, it comes in nine gorgeous colors to add a pop of personality to your adventures.

Rockland Melrose Upright Wheeled Underseater Luggage

Rockland has created no shortage of impressively spacious and durable suitcases for any type of trip you may be preparing for, but if it's a portable personal item that you’re seeking, this compact underseater is guaranteed to exceed your expectations. Now on sale for a whopping 67 percent off, this bold and petite bag will easily slide under the airplane seat with room to spare, all while keeping your carry-on essentials safe. Featuring two wheels at its base for smooth transport, this suitcase is also built with a convenient telescoping handle that can be tucked back into the top of the bag when not in use. Two mesh side pockets have ample space to hold onto a water bottle while keeping your hands largely free, and it's roomy enough to carry everything you need for a multiple-day trip.

Etronik Travel Duffel Bag

This best-selling duffel bag is a traveler-favorite at Amazon, which is exactly why you’ll want to snatch it up while it’s on sale for an impressive 42 percent off for a limited time. Featuring an incredibly roomy primary pocket that’s easy to access and holds a stunning volume of items, this tote is a top-notch personal item for longer trips, and it even features a range of genius details that set it apart from the rest. A separate, zippered shoe compartment at the base of the bag ensures that your clean laundry is never marred by the dirty soles of your favorite sandals, and an additional waterproof, PVC-lined pocket is practically essential for the summer months if you’re headed to the lake or the pool. It’s well-made, reliable, and when you’re not traveling, it even works double-duty as a handy gym bag. 

Coofay Carry-on Backpack

This genius backpack is a dream come true for travel — all thanks to a roomy interior, well-padded yet breathable shoulder straps, and a hidden shoe compartment. If you’re looking to maximize your organizational capacity, you’ll be happy to find that this bag is complete with a wide assortment of pockets to keep your essentials easily accessible while you’re on the go, plus, while the main pocket is large, the bag itself is still compact enough to fit underneath the airplane seat. Whether you’re wearing it hiking, sightseeing, or for a long day at the airport, this $31 bag is a top-notch companion.

Dreubea Women’s Soft Faux Leather Tote

Some people are partial to traveling with a sizable purse that can be used for multiple purposes throughout the trip, so if this sounds like you, the Dreubea Faux Leather Tote will be a worthwhile addition to your baggage collection while it’s on sale for a mere $15. Secured at the top with a simple snap closure, this no-frills bag functions as both a personal item and a stylish purse — either way, it’s sure to elevate any outfit it's worn with. The spacious interior is well-suited for holding your electronics, toiletries, and other items you may want to keep easily accessible during air travel, and it’s even small enough to tuck under the airplane seat with plenty of legroom to spare. With nearly 39,000 five-star ratings from happy customers speaking to its value and quality, you’ll be in good hands with this sleek bag this summer.

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Lightweight Underseat Carry-on Travel Tote

Travelpro luggage is largely well-regarded for its impressive quality and functionality, and this underseat carry-on is no exception. The thoughtfully made lightweight bag is designed with an accessible top-open pocket that offers ample space for clothing, electronics, and everything in between, while smooth zippers and a water- and stain-resistant exterior are the icing on top of the cake. It comes fitted with a removable and padded shoulder strap for comfortable travel days, while a sleeve at the back of the bag also allows for easy stacking atop your rolling bags during longer trips. Best of all, the ‘Amazon’s Choice’ personal item is currently on sale for just $85.

Light Flight Travel Backpack for Women

If you have any work trips on the horizon this summer, you’ll be happy to have a reliable, durable, and easy-to-carry personal item at the ready — and the Light Flight Travel Backpack is all that and more. The main pocket offers several organizational compartments for your laptop and other items that need to be stored with additional padding, and it even boasts anti-theft zippers to keep your belongings safe when you’re spending time in the airport or walking through an unfamiliar city. The accompanying USB charging port is compatible with your favorite portable charger to keep you on the grid without turning to the airport outlets for assistance, and on top of it all, this bag is currently on sale for just $40.

Bagsmart Weekender Overnight Bag

Sometimes a simple duffel is all you need to make traveling a breeze, so kick your summer off on the right foot with this packable Bagsmart tote that’s now double-discounted to a mere $28 thanks to an on-site coupon. The beauty of this bag is that it’s supremely compact and can be stuffed into a larger suitcase when not in use, while an anti-theft zipper, a padded (and removable) shoulder strap, and a convenient elasticized water bottle pocket all add to the handiness of this unassuming bag. It’s large enough to fit all the staple items you’ll want to keep within your personal item, plus, it simply tucks under the airplane seat thanks to its malleable and compact form.

Redcamp Foldable Travel Bag

Water repellent, incredibly durable, and impressively spacious, this foldable duffel is not only an excellent personal item, but also a great asset to tuck into your larger suitcase to use if you do some shopping at your destination and are traveling back with more than you arrived with. Mesh side pockets provide easy-access storage for snacks and even a water bottle, and a convenient two-way zipper ensures that you’ll have no trouble quickly snagging whatever you need from inside your bag (even if you’re in a hurry). At just $20, this duffel proves that you don’t need to break the bank to score a high-quality personal item for all of your most exciting adventures.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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