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Home » Gear » The BEST Surfboard Bag for Travel (2024)

The BEST Surfboard Bag for Travel (2024)

Any surfer knows the value of good equipment. The boards you ride, fins you use, and wetsuits you wear have the potential to make or break any session and are one of the most essential factors for anyone who enjoys heading into the ocean to catch some waves.

If you’re a competent surfer and own your own boards, you’ll also know that surfboards are super fragile and are quite literally made with a glass outer layer. Nothing is worse than an unprecedented ding in a new board, and protecting your equipment is paramount. This becomes especially important once you invest hundreds or thousands of dollars into your surfboard quiver and equipment.

Unfortunately, most airline baggage handlers are not surfers, which means they don’t understand the fragility of these pieces of luggage. It’s never fun to watch your boards fall out of airplanes and get thrown onto trolleys from the window of a plane, but trust me when I say that it happens.

Leveling up your travel bag game is the best way to protect your gear. Colloquially called ‘coffins’ in the surf world, surfboard bags are an absolute must if you’re traveling anywhere by plane, boat, bus or even a car. They offer a layer of protection for the most unexpected incidents and can save you a lot of tedious effort fixing dings after a long journey as well as your trip itself.

Most of the best surfboard travel bags are designed for heavy-duty protection, with padded side walls and extra cushions at the nose and tail of the board. They also offer a range of pockets and zippers to stash your surf goodies, like fins, leashes, wetsuits and bathing suits, wax blocks, sunscreen, Gopro and even towels.

Whether you’re backpacking around Hawaii on the surf trip of a lifetime or heading down to the local beach every night down that particularly unmaintained road, you need a decent bag!

In this article, I’ve searched high and low for eight of the best surfboard travel bags, r anging in price, size, and brand depending on your budget and how many boards you intend to travel with.

best surf travel backpack

Quick Answers – The Best Surfboard Bags

#1 dakine john john florence mission surfboard bag, #2 surfica all-rounder hybrid surfboard bag, #3 dakine daylight noserider surfboard bag, #4 dakine recon thruster surfboard bag, #5 fcs day funboard surfboard bag, #6 pro-lite smuggler series travel surfboard bag, #7 creatures of leisure shortboard day use dt 2.0, surfboard bag.

  • #8 FCS -Classic All Purpose Day Bag

DAKINE John John Florence Mission Surfboard Bag

DAKINE John John Florence Mission Surfboard Bag

  • Weight > 5lbs 5oz for a 7ft bag
  • Material > Nylon
  • Price > Price – $100 – $130

Surfica All Rounder Hybrid Surfboard Bag

Surfica All-Rounder Hybrid Surfboard Bag

  • Material > Tarplin skin, coil zipper
  • Price > $100 – $145

DAKINE Daylight Noserider Surfboard Bag

DAKINE Daylight Noserider Surfboard Bag

  • Weight > 4lb 15oz for a 9ft 6in board
  • Material > Tarpaulin outer, coil zipper
  • Price > $81 – $165

DAKINE Recon Thruster Surfboard Bag

DAKINE Recon Thruster Surfboard Bag

  • Weight > 8lb 6.4oz for a 7ft 6in board
  • Material > Nylon outer, foam padding
  • Price > $230

FCS Day Funboard Surfboard Bag

FCS Day Funboard Surfboard Bag

  • Weight > 2lb 14oz for a 6ft 7in board
  • Material > Nylon and padded foam rails
  • Price > $140

Pro Lite Smuggler Series Travel Surfboard Bag

Pro-Lite Smuggler Series Travel Surfboard Bag

  • Weight > 11lbs for a 6ft 10in board
  • Material > 600D Polyester
  • Price > $270 – $285

Creatures of Leisure Shortboard Day Use DT 2 0 Surfboard Bag

Creatures of Leisure Shortboard Day Use DT 2.0, Surfboard Bag

  • Material > Diamond tech materials, mesh, foam, corrosion-resistant zipper
  • Price > $162

FCS Classic All Purpose Day Bag

Classic All Purpose Day Bag

  • Material > Tarpee material, easy glide zippers, foam padding
  • Price > $115 – $120

These Are The Best Surfboard Travel Bags

There are only so many surf brands, and Dakine ranks high as one of the overall best surfboard bag companies in the scene. FCS is another brand that specializes in high-performance fin designs but also creates a mean surfboard bag design. 

So, you’ve searched high and low and you’ve got the best surfboard for your ability and trip … so let’s take a look at some of the best surfboard travel bags on the market today:

best surf travel backpack

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DAKINE John John Florence Mission Surfboard Bag

  • Weight – 5lbs 5oz for a 7ft bag
  • Material – Nylon
  • Price – $100 – $130

If you’re familiar with any pro surfers, John John Florence would be one of them! Named after the Hawaiian prodigy, Dakine designed this surfboard bag to hold one single thruster (a board with three fins) surfboard. The board bag is made using nylon and 10mm foam padding to ensure it protects your board on the road. 

My favorite part about the cover is its heat-reflective inner, which works together with well-positioned vents to dry the board, even from the inside of the bag. Pretty neat right? This also helps keep the board cool and protected from direct sunlight, which is necessary when traveling in tropical and humid locations such as a surf trip to Sri Lanka .

Ideal for trekking through airports, the bag has a removable padded shoulder straps and handle that can be taken off when you check your bag into the airplane hold. The board bag also features internal and external pockets to store your fins, wax, leash and even things like your GoPro .

Surfica All Rounder Hybrid Surfboard Bag

  • Material – Tarplin skin, coil zipper
  • Price – $100 – $145

Surfica’s All-Rounder truly is just that – the perfect board bag for any occasion. Whether using it to travel from home to the beach or jump on an international flight to a surf destination in the tropics, this is one of the best surfboard travel bags created to transport your board as safely as possible. 

Designed using closed-cell padding technology, you can rest assured you won’t open your bag up at the destination to find unexpected dings and scuffs. The bag itself is pretty resistant, made using a traditional surfboard sock tarpaulin skin material that is hard to scratch or tear. 

Something you won’t realize you want until you need it, this board also has a removable padded shoulder strap so that you can transport the board without hurting your arm, and remove the strap before putting the board on the roof of a car or through an airport conveyer belt.

DAKINE Daylight Noserider Surfboard Bag

  • Weight – 4lb 15oz for a 9ft 6in board
  • Material – Tarpaulin outer, coil zipper
  • Price – $81 – $165

There are only so many surf brands that make board bags, and Dakine ranks high as one of the overall best surfboard bag companies in the scene. 

Crafted for longer boards ranging from 7ft 6in to 11ft longboards, the Daylight Noserider Surfboard Bag is made with a water-resistant tarpaulin outer and a thick foam insert to protect your board from dings and dents.

If you are after a lightweight surfboard bag, dont get this one. Since it is destined to carry heavy boards and equipment, the board bag has much-needed heavy-duty zippers that you can trust won’t split while on the road. The padded shoulder strap helps you carry the heavy board from A – B. I recommend this bag more as a daily driver to transport your equipment from home to the beach, and I don’t necessarily recommend it for international travel however.

DAKINE Recon Thruster Surfboard Bag

  • Weight – 8lb 6.4oz for a 7ft 6in board
  • Material – Nylon outer, foam padding
  • Price – $230

Available in both a 7ft and 7ft 6in size, Dakine’s Recon Thruster Surfboard Bag is one of the best surfboard travel bags designed for everything from local road trips to exotic surf trips across the globe. 

The most important feature of this bag is its impressive foam padding, which is designed to protect your favorite boards from reckless baggage handlers and bumpy car rides. A padded divider separates and protects the two boards from one another. There are also a ton of internal and external pockets to stash your sunscreen, wax, leashes, and fins safely.

The bag is made using a tough nylon outer shell, which protects from scratches and scuffs. The material is also heat-reflecting, which means you won’t have to worry about opening your bag to find all your wax melted and congealed against the side of your bag! Eww!

As a surfer who likes to keep options on hand, the bag can comfortably fit two surfboards so that you can have a backup board in case of an emergency or if you want to mix things up.

best surf travel backpack

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

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

FCS Day Funboard Surfboard Bag

  • Weight – 2lb 14oz for a 6ft 7in board
  • Material – Nylon and padded foam rails
  • Price – $140

Designed primarily for lugging your boards between home, car, and beach, this board bag is much more robust than it gets credit for. Made using a rigid nylon material that is durable but not overly heavy, I rate this board as one of the better options for airplane travel. 

It’s also one of the lighter board bags on the market, which means you can stash more surf gear in without reaching your overweight limit at the airport.

I really like that our best surfboard travel bag has a stretchy panel that both allows for airflow and creates a secure fit around the rails of the board. Rails are usually the first part of the board to get damaged when traveling, but the foam rail adds further protection for unruly baggage handlers.

Take note that this bag has a broader shape, ideal for wide fish boards and funboards. I often size up with a wide board bag which allows me to fit two small surfboards snugly into a one-board bag.

Pro Lite Smuggler Series Travel Surfboard Bag

  • Weight – 11lbs for a 6ft 10in board
  • Material – 600D Polyester
  • Price – $270 – $285

With two options in a 6ft 6in and 6ft 10in length, this board bag is optimal for shortboards. Most airlines will stipulate a strict maximum two-board travel policy. However, three boards are better than two, and sometimes you need to keep all your options on hand on a surf trip. The bag is designed to fit three boards, with one being hidden from airport security under a hidden flap / false bottom. Cheeky!

You can also be sure to keep all your surf equipment in one place using the convenient pockets. The pack features a large external pocket that can fit a wetsuit and an inner pocket designed for smaller items like your fins, leashes, and blocks of wax.

For peace of mind when traveling by plane, the bag is protected with a 600D polyester foam layer and an extra reinforced nose and rail guard around the zipper.

Creatures of Leisure Shortboard Day Use DT 2 0 Surfboard Bag

  • Material – Diamond tech materials, mesh, foam, corrosion-resistant zipper
  • Price – $162

Creatures of Leisure crafted this trendy surfboard bag for those itching to get into the surf every day. It’s their range’s go-to bag for daily use and it’s perfect for any weather, come rain or shine. 

As one of the best surfboard travel bags on the market, the Day Use DT 2.0 is made with durable materials combining mesh, foam, and nylon, providing ultimate protection for bumpy car rides and accidental knocks and bashes.

My favorite thing about this bag is its aero mesh ventilation system, which protects the boards inside the bag from heat and direct sunlight, keeping boards cool and allowing airflow to dry the boards, even from within the bag.

#8 FCS – Classic All Purpose Day Bag

FCS Classic All Purpose Day Bag

  • Material – Tarpee material, easy glide zippers, foam padding
  • Price – $115 – $120

FCS is one of the most well-known international fin brands, but this company also knows how to make a good quality board bag. Ranging in size from 5ft 9 to 6ft 3in, the Classic All Purpose Day Bag is designed for precisely that – everyday use. 

With 5mm padding and an ergonomic shoulder strap, the bag will protect your boards just as much as it will protect your shoulder from discomfort while transporting the bag. One of the biggest draws of this bag is its non-corrosive zippers, which can withstand years’ worth of saltwater droplets without getting rusted or stuck.

best surf travel backpack

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best surf travel backpack

Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best Surfboard Bag For Travel

There is nothing worse than arriving at your destination on a long-anticipated surf trip to find that your boards have been damaged along the way. Finding a place to fix a board or doing it yourself is tiring, expensive, and honestly heartbreaking if you have to fix a brand-new board.

Not only are surfboards expensive pieces of equipment, but they are also pretty much covered with a thin layer of fiberglass, which can be quick to break. This is why it is so essential to purchase the best surfboard bag for travel, to protect your fragile gear from dings while traveling via plane, boat, bus or car. It might not be on every backpacking packing list , but as a surfer it’s essential.

There are various board bags designed for traveling, some with space for multiple surfboards and other equipment. Some more technical bags (not featured on this list) even have wheels to make your travels with a large and bulky item a bit easier. It might not sound like a main priority, but be sure to pick a good quality surfboard bag before your next surf adventure to avoid any disappointment or frustration.

Clean Line Surf sells a wide range of board bags and ‘coffins,’ ranging from basic sleeve protectors to high-tech travel bags with wheels and space for up to five surfboards. Browse through this site to check out the reviews on some of the featured products.

best surf travel backpack

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Aiden Freeborn

Aiden Freeborn

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The Best Surfboard Bags for Daily Use and Surf Travel in 2024, Reviewed

best surf travel backpack

Anna Gudauskas’ Sagebrush Board Bags bring the style with reclaimed materials. Photo: Sagebrush Board Bags

The Inertia

As surfers, the surfboard is our most prized possession and as such, we want to do everything in our power to keep it in pristine condition. While a ding is inevitable at some point, a solid board bag can help prolong the life of your board, and give you some peace of mind when traveling, whether it’s to your local break, a coastal roadtrip, or flying across the globe.

We took the liberty of acquiring and testing the best surfboard bags on the market, to give you our analysis and top picks for a variety of applications. For more detailed info on the bags and what we looked for in reviewing them, check out our Comparison Table and Buyer’s Guide towards the end of the article.

The Best Surfboard Bags of 2024

Best All-Around Surfboard Bag: Creatures of Leisure Adventure-Ready Shortboard Double Best Surfboard Bag for Air Travel: Wave Tribe Hurricane Chaser Travel Bag Most Protective Surfboard Bag: Db Djärv Surfboard Coffin Best Day-Use Surfboard Bag: Creatures of Leisure Fish Day Use DT2.0 Best Bang for Your Buck Surfboard Bag: Dakine Daylight Surfboard Bag Most Affordable Surfboard Bag: Curve Boost Travel Bag

Best All-Around Surfboard Bag

roark x creatures of leisure surfboard travel bag

Creatures of Leisure Adventure-Ready Shortboard Double ($263)

Pros: Internal compression straps, ventilation system, padded straps Cons:  Not super heavy padding

If you’re looking for a rugged bag that will keep your board safe during long-haul trips, look no further than the Creatures of Leisure x Roark Adventure-Ready bag. Designed for lightweight, compact travel the board comes in three size options that securely hold your board in place while offering maximum protection. Featuring Diamond-Tech fabric, 10-mm closed cell foam protection, an expandable sidewall, 20 percent more protection on the nose/tail, marine-grade corrosion resistant zippers, a padded handle and shoulder strap, internal compression straps, an aero mesh ventilation system, and a limited edition cover, the Adventure-Ready bag has everything you could want in a good travel bag and more. With style points to boot, the Adventure Ready bag is the one we’ll be reaching for on our next globe trotting adventure.

Best Surfboard Bag for Air Travel

Wave tribe hurricane chaser travel bag (from $260).

Wave Tribe Surfboard Bag

At Wave Tribe, the goal is to offer a bag that is stylish, sustainably made, durable, and offers the maximum protection possible—the brand hit the nail on the head with the Hurricane Chaser travel bag. In an effort to be gentle on the environment, the bag is made from high-density recycled nylon and hemp, which keeps the board about 10 degrees cooler than a traditional bag.

Thoughtful exterior bag features include heavy-duty YKK zippers, a padded shoulder strap, heavy-duty handles, a zippered pocket, wheels, and breathable hemp. Interior features include 25 mm of padding on the nose and tail, a padded board separator to securely separate boards, and an interior pocket for stashing fins/leashes. The bag is available in nine different size options and is designed to comfortably hold two boards, making it perfect for overseas adventures. This bag recently accompanied our tester on a trip to Hawaii and it performed like a dream, with all of her gear arriving intact.

Most Protective Surfboard Bag

Db djärv surfboard coffin ($449).

bag

Pros: Wheels, semi-rigid ribs, pockets, compresses down for storage Cons: Too large for day trips, only offered in one size, pricey

This bag is pretty incredible. It’s designed to hold three to four boards and the protection it offers is as good as it gets with tons of padding, semi-rigid ribs that keep your boards from getting squished, and  strategic pockets to stash your towels and clothing and create even more padding at the nose and tail.

Other features include custom wheels and a handle to make hauling easier. It also has a built-in hook up system, so you can attach it to other Db bags to make your airport endeavor smoother. Additionally, the bag has internal pockets for stashing leashes/wax, dividers to place between your boards, and strategically placed exterior handles to ensure baggage handlers are gentle when lifting your board. When you’re finished traveling, the bag compresses down to 30% of its size to make storage easier.

When it comes to bells and whistles, this one’s a winner. The only downsides to this awesome product is that it may be a little overkill for the casual surf-tripper who only wanted to take a board or two with them, and is certainly too bulky to double as a daybag. And at close to $450, those bells and whistles aren’t coming cheap. Finally, the bag is only offered in one size, that (just barely) fits boards up to 6’6″ in length. That said, if you need a super-protective surf coffin, this is as good as it gets. Read our full review here.

Best Day-Use Surfboard Bag

Creatures of leisure fish day-use dt2.0 ($140).

best surf travel backpack

Pros: Expandable side wall, ventilation system, lightweight yet durable Cons: Not reliable for international travel

If you’re looking for a day-use bag that offers a little extra protection, the Creatures of Leisure Fish Day Use may be the bag for you. The Fish Day Use is specifically designed for day-to-day usage with single board capacity for wider fun boards.

The bag is constructed from Diamond-Tech fabric, which is strong, water-resistant, and lightweight. The bag also contains Diamond-Tech 2.0 fabric on high stress areas for extra protection. Additionally, the Day Use bag includes 5mm closed cell foam protection, an expandable sidewall, marine-grade resistant zippers, a foam padded handle, a padded shoulder strap, a fin slot, and an interior pouch for stashing essentials. The bag also features an aero mesh ventilation system to keep boards cool, which we were big fans of as we tend to spend hours at the beach after a good surf session.  We really liked how lightweight this bag is while remaining durable. With generous zippers, the board slides in and out with ease and the shoulder straps makes it easy to carry on long treks to the beach.

Best Bang for Your Buck

Dakine daylight surfboard bag ($94).

best surf travel backpack

Pros: Zippered fin slots, long zippers Cons: Not enough padding for airplane travel

A hybrid bag designed for storage and transport, the Daylight is advertised as a day-use bag, but we think it’s sturdy enough for gentle travel as well. Created specifically for longboards, the Daylight offers heat and water-resistant coverage and full-length ¼ inch foam-padded ding protection. And, it’s available in both a longboard , and shortboard version.

Additionally, the bag features a heavy duty, YKK coil zipper, a zippered fin slot, a non-slip padded shoulder strap with a stash pocket, and a wax/fin pocket. We thought it was unique that this bag had a zippered fin slot as opposed to traditional Velcro ones—we found it easier to fit the bag snuggly around our fin. We also appreciated the plethora of pockets, and the padded shoulder strap was a nice addition for easy transport. Generously long zippers made it simple to slid the board in and out and a subtle camo design added a little extra flair. The only reason we would hesitate to use this bag for airplane travel is the lack of extra padding in the nose area—but it makes for a great day-use bag.

Longboard Version

Thruster Version

CHECK PRICE ON CLEANLINE CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

Best Budget Surfboard Bag

Curve boost travel bag (from $80).

boost surfboard travel bag

Upon first examination, Curve’s Boost bag looks more like a day-use bag than a travel bag due to its compact design. However, upon taking a closer look, we noticed 20-mm boosted nose and tail foam zones that provide added protection during transport. Additionally, the bag features a 7 mm foam core, a 600D water-resistant canvas base, heat reflective silver tarpee upper, fin slot with Velcro closer, and a detachable shoulder strap. An especially unique feature of the bag is the Tail Protection Strap System, a built-in strap that allows you to firmly secure the board inside the pack. Although the body of the bag doesn’t provide as intense protection as other travel options, the price is right and the paddling is sufficient — you just may want to wrap some towels around your board for a little extra cushion.

Longboard Version CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON Fish Version CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON Shortboard Version CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

If you’re willing to spend a little more for the extra padding, the Curve Armordillo is an absolute tank with thick foam panels on the rails, nose, and tail. Buy the shortboard version here , and the longboard version here .

Best of the Rest

Runner up: best day-use surfboard bag, fcs dayrunner all purpose cover (from $130).

best surf travel backpack

Pros: High-density padding, 3D rail protection Cons:  Not ideal for airplane travel

Available in five size options and two colorways, the FCS Dayrunner cover is lightweight yet durable, making it ideal for transit to and from the beach. The bag features five-mm high-density padding, noncorrosive zippers paired with Velcro, an ergonomic shoulder pad, and an internal pocket for stashing fins or wax. Standout features include 3D rail protection that contours to the shape of the rail, an expandable fin wing that allows you to transport your board with or without the fin, and a contoured stretch fit that provides ventilation while simultaneously keeping the bag snug around your board. Although this bag is advertised as a day-use bag, it is extremely well made and raises the bar for day-use bags by being ultra padded and secure.

Longboard version CHECK PRICE ON EVO SUP version CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

Sagebrush Surf Bags ($140)

best surf travel backpack

Pros : Stylish, sustainably made Cons: No padding, no place to stash wax

If you have yet to hear of Sagebrush , it’s time to put them on your radar. From the mind of professional freesurfer Anna Gudauskas, Sagebursh offers eye catching bags created with the environment in mind. Available in a wide variety of prints and sizes, all of Sagebrush’s bags are handmade from remnant or vintage fabric and coffee bean sacks from organic, fair trade coffee roasters.

The style of these bags is similar to a sock, but they’re made from thick canvas, so they’re super easy to slide on and off while remaining durable. The material is much thicker than your traditional sock, so we feel confident that our boards will be protected in transit, when stacking it on the car, and during long beach days in the sun. While we wouldn’t use a Sagebrush bag for airplane travel (unless it’s stashed in a travel bag), our tester has been sporting a Sagebrush bag for years and is impressed by the durability. Made from remnant and vintage fabrics, it’s cool to know that each bag is available in extremely limited quantities, ensuring that you will have a unique bag. The only thing missing from this rad bag is a place to stash your wax!

Shred Surf Bag ($56)

Pros: Made from recycled materials, extra fleece on the nose, fins, tail, and side rails, machine washable Cons: Day-use only, not enough padding for airplane travel

best surf travel backpack

Made from 100% recycled materials, Shred’s bags are a mix of 60% recycled cotton and 40% recycled plastics. They are shipped in 100% recycled packaging via carbon neutral shipping (in the U.S.), so they’re gentle on the environment. The bags sport a protective interior design with double layered unbrushed fleece on the nose, fins, tail and side rails, so you can rest easy knowing there’s extra cushion where you need it. The bags also include a stowaway pocket for wax and other essentials, a drawstring closure, and UV protection. Should your bag get a little stinky, it’s machine washable so you can easily run it through a cycle and have it looking as good as new in no time. With a variety of patterns to choose from, we love the aesthetic of this bag and it seems sturdy and well made. When it’s time to travel overseas, our tester plans on stashing her board in her Shred bag before securing it in her travel bag for an added layer of protection. All and all, a super solid day-use option.

The Classic Boardsock (From $30)

the classic boardsock

Pros: Reinforced nose, velcro pocket Cons: Sometimes difficult to slide board in/out, everything sticks to it

The Ho Stevie! Surfboard Sock is a super simplistic sock design. Available in three different color options, the sock offers an added layer of protection from sunlight and anything that could potentially ding your board. The sock is made from durable knit stretch fabric and has a reinforced nose for an added layer of protection. Additionally, the bag features a drawstring closer as well as a small, Velcro storage pocket for wax, keys, or any other small items you might have.

Like most surfboard socks, we occasionally had some trouble sliding the bag over our boards—we found it easier with shorter boards. Another thing we noticed was if you set your sock down in any sort of debris, like a leaf-covered yard, it acted like Velcro and we’d end up bringing a bunch of leaves and weeds home with us. That said, the Ho Stevie! surfboard sock has everything you’d expect in a solid surfboard sock for lightweight, day-use protection, and the price is right.

Comparison Table

surfboard bags

You can’t go wrong with one of these great boardbags from Db, Dakine, Sagebrush, and more. Photo: Rebecca Parsons/The Inertia

How We Tested

Our lead tester, Rebecca Parsons, is a surfer based on the island of Oahu, Hawaii, who has made it her mission to surf as many different waves in the world as she can, both at home in Hawaii, on roadtrips up and down the California coast, and on overseas trips. In 2022, she got her hands on each of the bags featured in this review (as well as some that didn’t make the cut), and since then has been storing and transporting her boards in them to get a feel for how they perform. Some have gone on trips close to home, and those made for air travel, she’s taken overseas to see how they held up, and how well they protected her precious surfboards. As surfers and wave-chasers, other members of The Inertia’s editorial and gear team have done additional testing of products on this list, like the Wave Tribe Hurricane Chaser, which has been a favorite of Senior Editor Alex Haro’s for years now, and the Db Djärv which has accompanied Gear Editor Will Sileo on a number of trips to and from his home in California and the Hawaiian Islands. We continue to test these bags, as well as any new products to hit the market, and will keep this article updated with the latest and greatest based on our experiences with the products.

For each bag, our main considerations were the type and level of protection it offers, how easy it is to transport, and the ease of use. We rated each bag on these three metrics, as well as taking into account additional features, and the various pros and cons related to the design of each bag.

Rating Table

What makes a good board bag.

Protection The most important feature of a board bag is how well it is able to protect your stick. Although there are different types of bags available at different levels of protection, we expect the bag to provide the type the protection advertised. For example, a day bag should provide ample protection for trips around town but we wouldn’t expect it to hold up on an overseas flight. A travel bag, on the other hand, should do its due diligence and keep our board protected on a long haul trip. Before purchasing a bag, we take into consideration what kind of travel we will be doing with it and then consider the features it offers.

Transport Traveling with boards is a challenge and such, features that make the board easier to transport are always appreciated. If it’s a shortboard bag, a padded shoulder strap is a plus. If it’s a longboard bag or a bag for multiple boards, wheels are a game changer.

Ease of Use This may sound like strange criteria as surfboard bags are fairly straightforward in their design, but we want a bag that is easy to slide/off. If you’re anything like us, you’ve found yourself in a parking lot, wrestling with your board bag or sock, banging your board around in the process, and wondering if you would have done better had you left the bag at home. When we’re in the market for a board bag, we consider whether it will slide on and off easily, regardless of if the board is wet or dry. If it’s a more fitted bag, we considered zippers and how far down they go to make sure it’ll be easy to use.

It's hemp! And you could drive a tank over it! surfboards bags

The Wave Tribe Hurricane Chaser has been a long-time favorite at The Inertia. Here’s Senior Editor Alex Haro with one in 2017. Photo: Alex Haro/The Inertia

What Are Some Other Factors to Consider?

Size is super important. You want a bag that fits your board snugly, to ensure maximum protection. But you also don’t want to be wrestling your bag each time you use it to try and get your board to fit. It’s a bit of a Goldilocks scenario. In general, a good rule of thumb is to order a bag that is a little longer than your board. If you’re ordering a board online, check the length, width, and thickness of your board and order accordingly. Length will determine which size bag you order and width and thickness will determine the style (for example, a 6’2” fish isn’t going to fit into a 6’2” shortboard bag).

Like surfboards, a good board bag doesn’t come cheap and as such, we want one that is going to last. For those bags we want to accompany us overseas, bags aren’t always handled with care at the airport, so you’ll want to make sure you’re getting a bag that is made from a durable material. Although it’s possible to find bags at an agreeable price point (see our top picks for value and budget, above), it’s worth spending a few extra bucks to ensure you’re not buying a board bag made of cheap fabric that’s going to quickly fall apart.

Extra Storage Although it’s not essential, it sure is nice when a bag comes with a Velcro or zippered pockets to stash your fins, leash, wax, etc. For travel bags especially, it’s nice to have a generous amount of pockets for organizing all your surf-trip essentials, but for something like a sock, all we need is a little pocket to store some wax or our keys.

Return to Comparison Table | Return to Top Picks

Editor’s Note: For more gear reviews and features on The Inertia, click here .

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7 Best Surf Backpacks of 2023

7 Best Surf Backpacks of 2023

Being a surfer means having your gear ready to go last minute when the swell picks up. Using the best surf backpack available will make your surfing experience go from good to great. We considered different elements such as a bag that supports travel, hiking out to secret spots, and something that keeps your gear protected from start to finish. There are many contenders out there, so in this review, we’ve rounded up the 7 best surf packs of 2023. Let’s unpack this thing.

Surf Packs Reviewed

  • Rip Curl - F-Light Surf Pack Backpack - 40L - $159.95
  • Dakine - Mission Surf Backpack - 30L - $94.95+
  • Dakine - Cyclone II Dry Pack Surf Backpack - 36L -$174.95
  • Channel Islands- Essential Surf backpack - Surftrek Storm Pack 40L - $131.95
  • Rip Curl - Dawn Patrol Surf Pack backpack - 30L - $89.95
  • Patagonia - Disperser Roll Top Surf Backpack - 40L - $218.95
  • FCS - Wet Pack - Heather Gray - $89.95

Rip Curl F-Light Surf Pack Backpack 40L - $159.95

“Meant for it all”

Rip Curl F-Light Surf Pack Backpack 40L

The F-Light by Rip Curl allows you to be as prepared as a boy scout for any session. A large roll & clip insulated wet/dry compartment can comfortably fit a 3/2mm full suit and other larger surf accessories. The bag's front pocket includes a laptop sleeve, fleece-lined sunglass/tech pocket, and a dedicated fin organizer. With a large 1-liter insulated water bottle holder on one side and a wax pocket on the other, this bag has a ton of nooks and crannies to store almost anything you could think to pack.

The dry pockets are also reinforced on the outside with a thicker plastic material to ensure your phone and other valuables stay safe in the bag. The best part is that all of this storage and pockets don’t come at an additional weight. By using super-light materials, the F-Light weighs in at only 3 lbs. This would be an ideal bag to travel with, and it’s also nice for those who like to have an extra leash, fins, and gear on them.

Highlights and Features

  • Roll-top with buckle closure
  • Dry/Wet compartment
  • Laptop sleeve & protective tech pocket
  • Insulated Water Bottle Sleeve
  • Reinforced protective shell

Dakine Mission Surf Backpack 30L - $94.95

“Nothing left behind”

Dakine Mission Surf 30L Backpack

This pack is for the committed surfer or the weekend warrior. The 30L will get your gear to the break with everything you need and nothing you don't. Designed with a seam-sealed rolltop dry/wet pocket, the Mission bag is large enough to fit a full 5/4mm wetsuit, boots, and gloves. With the Mission, you won’t have to worry about a clunky walk back to the parking area.

Durability also comes to mind when reviewing the Mission. This pack can stand the test of rugged coastal terrain by using heavy-duty YKK zippers and an ultradurable reinforced bottom that can resist boulders, reefs, and tree stumps. Not only does this pack have the ability to fit your significant pieces of equipment in the wet/dry pocket, but there are additional pockets to safely store glasses, wax, fins, and keep a water bottle or two. If you’re looking for a bag with similar characteristics but in a 40L version, check out the Dakine- Mission Surf DLX. Not only does this bag have an extra 10L of space, but it also includes a specific pocket for a laptop and electronics. Having this option is a big deal for surfers planning to travel. Check out the Mission surf DLX 40L model here .

This pack is available in multiple color options, so choose your favorite and get out there!

  • Accessories pocket
  • Wet/Dry compartment

Dakine Cyclone II Dry Pack Surf Backpack 36L - $174.95+

“ A Classic”

Dakine Cyclone II Dry Pack Surf Backpack 36L

The Cyclone II is another excellent pack with a straightforward 36L design. The Cyclone II keeps it practical by using high-end materials like the strong, tear-resistant Cordura Fabric and welded seams for the bag's outer shell. This pack has two exterior pockets for both a pre and post-surf beverage and one sizeable roll-top pocket that’s big enough to fit all of your neoprene. The pockets are water-resistant and have PU-coated zippers. There is also an integrated laptop sleeve for everyday and travel use. Keeping with the minimalistic yet practical theme, the shoulder straps on this pack are lightweight and “breathable” with ventilation. The materials on this pack don’t absorb water, so it stays light and dry after use. The Cyclone II has you covered if you need a surf pack for quick hikes or short trips. If you’re looking for a smaller pack specific to day trips, check out the 32L version .

  • Wet/Dry Compartment
  • Two small exterior pockets
  • Laptop sleeve

Channel Islands Essential Surf Backpack 40L - $131.95

“Pockets for Everything”

Channel Islands Essential Surf Backpack

The Channel Islands Essential has everything you need to be prepared for your longest day trips. The pack has a specific compartment for your wet gear and a roll-top closure. While using my Essential pack, I could fit my wetsuit, boots, and my girlfriend's wetsuit and boots in the wet compartment. The backpack was full, but there was still plenty of space for my fins, towels, and necessities. One of my favorite things about this pack is the internal zip pockets for accessories. Each pocket is zip closed and helps you organize with ease. We have had a lot of good feedback from customers about this backpack. Check out the product reviews on our website for any clarification. Look no further if you need a pack with all the room you need and more.

  • Fleece-lined sunglass pocket
  • 2X water bottle pockets

Rip Curl Dawn Patrol Surf Backpack 30L - $89.95

“Wave to Work Master”

Rip Curl Dawn Patrol Surf Backpack 30L

The Rip Curl Dawn Patrol includes everything you need and nothing you don’t: created for quick day trips where efficiency matters. At 30L, this backpack includes outstanding features such as a specific wetsuit roll/top compartment and a dedicated fin organizer. With a designated padded laptop pocket, you can go straight from surfing remote waves to creating content for work. There’s nothing like being able to work in the outdoors with nature present for inspiration.

Every pocket on the backpack has a zip closure except for the side pockets made for water bottles. The backpack is made from recycled polyester, so you can feel even better by making an eco-friendly purchase.

Patagonia Disperser Roll Top 40L - $218.95

“Extreme Resistance”

Patagonia Disperser Roll Top 40L

Patagonia stays true to its values by creating a pack that honors a surfer's needs without a high environmental impact. The Disperser is an excellent pack for any adventurer heading to rain-saturated territories. This 40L bag comprises one wet/dry compartment complete with a secure roll-top and dual buckle closure. You’ll easily be able to fit all of your cold or warm water gear into this pack for your expedition. With extreme water resistance, there is no need to worry about pricy items like a camera or phone getting wet. The fabric of this pack is made of 100% recycled nylon and polyester. This pack is unique because it is also compatible with Patagonia’s Convertible Vest and Wader workstation, adding more room for the extra small stuff.

Keep your wallet or phone in the front pocket with a water bottle on the side, and you are good to go. The Dispenser “to the point” bag will protect your gear while trekking through forests or cliffsides to reach that dream surf spot.

  • Roll-top bag
  • Fair Trade Certified
  • Non-absorbent straps
  • Internal Organizer

FCS Wet Pack - $89.95

“Simplicity at its finest”

FCS Wet Pack

The FCS Wet/Dry Travel Pack is the perfect way to transport your surf gear. It has a handy waterproof shell with a generous 40 liters of capacity, thanks to its roll-top main compartment that can be adjusted for different sizes of loads. Plus, it has a separate zippered waterproof pocket for keeping items like your phone and keys dry. The FCS Wet Pack is a durable dry bag that protects your gear from the elements.

To carry your FCS Wet/Dry pack anywhere you want, grab the padded carrying handle or throw on the backpack straps whenever you need them. Never worry about getting your gear wet or dirty again – the FCS Wet Pack has you covered!

  • Adjustable depth
  • Welded seams
  • Additional waterproof pocket

Let’s Wrap it Up

To sum it up, there are plenty of surf packs on the market to choose from. Whether you need something to get your gear from A to B, or you’re looking for a pack suitable for more adventurous trips, there is something that suits your needs. Style and features differ significantly, but each bag has its own unique traits that make it stand amongst the crowd of competitors. Surf missions can be tricky at times, but with the right bag, you can easily handle the bumps and bruises of each memorable swell. Now the question remains: What surf pack will help make your next surf trip stress-free? Get ready to hit the waves and find your go-to bag so you can make the most of your journey!

If you want to chat more about your options, drop a comment below, call our team at 888-546-6176, or email us at [email protected] .

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Best Surfing Backpack in 2023

Whether you are traveling around the world to go on a surfing trip or simply backing your surf gear and surfboard to go to your local break, having a dedicated surf backpack is the way to go.

Most of us surfers simply pile everything we need into our surfboard bag, but this makes our surfing experience a bit of a messy and disorganized one. Plus, it means always taking your surfboard bag with you each time you want to catch a wave.

Having a surf backpack changes everything! With the best surf backpacks, you will have space for everything inside a protective water-repellent or waterproof compartment plus they are great for traveling with too.

At A Glance: Our Top 3 Surfing Backpacks

  • Best Of The Best Dakine Cyclone II Dry Pack 36L Jump To Review
  • Best On A Budget COR Surf Waterproof Dry Bag Backpack Jump To Review
  • Best All-Rounder Patagonia Black Hole 25L Jump To Review

But, finding the best surf backpacks is a challenging task. You never know if they can handle the salt or if they will actually protect your gear. Luckily, I have done the hard work for you and lined up the top surf backpacks on the market and reviewed them so you can find the right one for you.

Top Product Overview

Best surfing backpack, dakine cyclone ii dry pack 36l.

Dakine Cyclone Ii Dry Pack 36L - Dark Ashcroft Camo, One Size

The Dakine Cyclone II Dry Pack is one of the most versatile surfing backpacks around as it can be used for anything from traveling abroad to going to work, and it’s awesome for surfing too!

Built from tough nylon, this surf backpack is 100% watertight with waterproof compartments to protect all your gear in. This means sand, water, and salt will be a thing of the past! Not only that but it comes with additional pockets for easy access and gear organization.

Inside the main compartment is a padded laptop compartment (great for travel and work) and the front pocket is made for carrying fins, waxes, and anything else you need access to. There is a side pocket for water too and even a surfboard carry system when you have to hike to a break.

Having 36 liters of space, it is also the perfect size for weekends away and has more than enough space for everything you need. When fully loaded, it can get heavy but the padded breathable straps and back panel ensure you are always comfy.

The only downside is that the roll-top closure makes it hard to find things at the bottom, otherwise it is an excellent surf backpack.

  • Versatile for use at the beach or travel
  • Completely waterproof main compartment
  • Water-resistant outer pockets
  • Laptop compartment
  • Easy to organize gear
  • Integrated surfboard carry system
  • Durable build that lasts
  • Side water bottle pocket
  • Good amount of space
  • Breathable back panel
  • Shoulder straps & sternum strap
  • A little expensive
  • Finding things at the bottom is hard

Product Information

  • Material: Nylon
  • Volume: 36 liter
  • Waterproof: Yes
  • Weight: 1.1 lb

COR Surf Waterproof Dry Bag Backpack

COR Surf 100% Waterproof Heavy Duty Backpack And Dry Backpack For Swimming, Boating Or Kayaking, Roll-top Design With Sonically Welded Seams And Padded Laptop Sleeve (40L, 21 x 15 x 8 Inches)

If you are shopping on a budget then one of the top surfing backpacks on the market for you is the COR Surf Waterproof Dry Bag Backpack . 

Despite being affordable these surf backpacks are made from tough PVC which resists everything from abrasions to punctures and blocks all water and sand from entering inside too. This means your things are 100% protected from the elements all the time. 

With a large roll-top main compartment, there is more than enough space for dry clothes, towels, and anything else you need. You can slot in fins, wax, and sunscreen in the outside pocket, plus the side mesh pockets for water or anything else. 

These surfing backpacks also have a sleeve for laptops so you can travel with them or take them to work too. Plus the padded back panel and straps mean that carrying it is comfortable. 

There is nowhere to put your surfboard, so you will have to carry it plus finding things at the bottom of the roll top compartment can be a drag. Otherwise, it is an awesome surf pack for the money.

  • Very affordable
  • Super durable build
  • 100% waterproof
  • Your gear stays dry and protected
  • External pockets for water bottles
  • Internal laptop sleeve
  • Versatile for travel and surfing
  • Ergonomic shoulder straps
  • Good size options
  • Front stash pocket for easy access
  • Hard to access things at the bottom
  • Material: PVC
  • Volume: 25/40 liters
  • Weight: 2 lbs

Patagonia Black Hole 25L

Patagonia Black Hole Pack 25L, Multicoloured, One Size

The Patagonia Black Hole surfing backpacks are the perfect middle ground between a backpack that works for everyday life, life in the outdoors, and for surfing too.

Being made by Patagonia means it is made from 100% recycled polyester ripstop, a big eco tick there, and it comes with a lifetime guarantee, so they will always fix it for you if they can. Plus, Patagonia’s build quality is something you can be sure will last too.

These surf packs are super resistant to water ensuring your gear stays dry by the sea and in the rain. The large main compartment is easy to access through the zipper bucket lid and inside you will have a space for a laptop, a zippered mesh valuables pocket, and an organizational panel too.

There is also a front pocket on these surf packs which is perfect for everything from fins to wax. As you can see, there is a space for everything and this surf pack is great for everything from travel, to work, to surfing! You can even add a hydration bladder for hiking.

To top it all off, the awesome straps and back panel come together to ensure maximum comfort when carrying this surf pack around.

  • Made from 100% recycled fabric
  • Awesome durability
  • Lifetime guarantee
  • Great for surf and travel
  • Laptop sleeve and internal valuables pocket
  • Front stash pocket
  • Comfortable to carry
  • Double water bottle pockets
  • Solid water-resistance
  • Hydration compatible
  • Not fully waterproof
  • Material: 100% recycled polyester ripstop
  • Volume: 25 liter
  • Waterproof: Resistant
  • Weight: 1.1 lbs

Patagonia Disperser Roll-Top Pack 40L

The Patagonia Disperser Roll-Top Pack is quite a different surfing backpack from the Patagonia pack we just looked at above. This one is specifically designed for use around water whereas the other was more of an all-rounder.

Being a Patagonia pack, it is made from recycled materials, is super durable, and comes with Patagonia’s guarantee so you are covered for life!

It features a watertight design with just one large compartment that has a single organization panel inside and a roll top closure. The compartment is large and has loads of room, but finding things lurking at the bottom of this surfing backpack isn’t so easy.

There are, however, a load of external attachment points where you can add gear you need access to quickly, and these can be used as lashing points too.

Overall, it is one of the best surfing backpacks around for dedicated surf use, but it isn’t very versatile for any other uses.

  • Fair Trade Certified
  • Made from 100% recycled materials
  • Watertight design
  • A good amount of space
  • Keeps your gear dry
  • Internal organization pocket
  • External attachment points/lashing loops
  • A bit expensive
  • Material: 100% recycled nylon and polyester
  • Volume: 40 liters
  • Waterproof: Very water-resistant
  • Weight: 2 lbs 9 oz

Dakine Mission Surf DLX Wet/Dry 32L Backpack

Dakine Mission Surf Dlx Wet/Dry Pack 32L - Black, One Size

The Dakine Mission Surf DLX Wet/Dry Backpack is another of the best surfing backpacks on the market, especially when it comes to versatility. With great looks and design what looks like a normal backpack is great for work, travel, and surfing.

This pack comes with a dry/wet compartment which is sealed from water so that you can either keep gear dry or put all your wet stuff inside it after a surf – removing the need for wetsuit bags. It also has a wax pocket which is lined with tarp plus a sunglass pocket lined with fleece so your sunnies never get scratched.

On top of all that, you also get three other compartments for gear like laptops or sunblock and there is even an exterior towel holder plus pockets for water bottles. It is an awesome pack for surf trips, keeping everything dry, and it is comfortable to carry too!

  • Lots of compartments for gear organization
  • Durable YKK zippers
  • Dedicated wet/dry pouch
  • Tarp lined wax pocket
  • Fleece lined sunglasses pocket
  • Built to last in salty conditions
  • Enough space for all you need
  • Comfy shoulder straps
  • Material: Nylon/polyester
  • Volume: 32 liters
  • Waterproof: 1 compartment
  • Pockets: 4+
  • Weight: 2.2 lbs

NRS Bill's Bag Dry Bag

NRS Bill's Bag 110L Dry Bag - Waterproof Storage Bag

The NRS Bill’s Bag Dry Bag is one of the best surfing backpacks around if you are looking for a 100% waterproof pack to use on serious surf trips that involve using a boat.

Built from tough PVC, these dry bags are very durable but they do not have any surf-specific features, as they are simply roll-top dry bags with removable shoulder straps. This means all your gear will have to be in one compartment but the welded construction and material make sure that everything is dry and protected at the same time!

Being a 65-liter bag, there is plenty of room for everything you need for a long trip but without a wet compartment, you will need wetsuit bags on the side so your dry gear stays dry.

Overall, it is a great dry bag but it would be nice to see some more compartments and pockets.

  • Extremely durable and long lasting
  • Fully waterproof when closed
  • Aluminum buckles handle corrosion well
  • Compression straps reduce bulk
  • A large amount of room for a long trip
  • Comfortable adjustable shoulder straps
  • You can remove the shoulder straps
  • No pockets for organizing gear
  • A bit more expensive than others
  • Pockets: No
  • Weight: 2.27 lbs

RVCA Weld Backpack

RVCA Men's Weld Backpack, Black, ONE Size

The RVCA Weld Backpack is designed for all-around use meaning it is great for everything from weekends away day trips and surfing.

It features a large roll-top main compartment that is water-repellent for your dry items along with two front pockets for smaller things like fins, wax, and valuables. There is a side mesh pocket, and a lashing system on the outside too plus some external attachment points.

It is safe to say, keeping gear organized and accessible is easy with this pack plus it will stay dry too! There is even a special pocket for your sunglasses with a fleece lining.

In addition, it is also very durable and has a very supportive carry system but it is not 100% waterproof which would be a nice addition.

  • Built for travel and surfing
  • Fully water-repellent
  • Keeps gear safe and dry
  • Very durable build that lasts
  • Side water bottle holder
  • Front internal organizer
  • Padded back torso support
  • Comfy carry straps
  • Material: 400D polyester
  • Volume: 30 liter
  • Weight: 2.1 lbs

Dakine Cyclone Roll Top 32L Backpack

Dakine Cyclone Roll Top Pack 32L - Dark Ashcroft Camo, One Size

The Dakine Cyclone Roll Top Backpack is another backpack made in a dry bag style. This means it has a large main compartment that is waterproof that is perfect for keeping dry things dry but it is not possible to keep wet and dry things in the same bag.

You will also find a useful front stash pocket for smaller items and there are mesh side pockets for water or anything else you can slot in there.

This pack has an excellent build quality that is designed to last around saltwater and the breathable straps and back panel ensure it is comfortable to carry, even in the heat.

The main issue with the pack is that accessing things in the main compartment is hard due to the roll top closure, so some extra compartments would be helpful.

  • Excellent durability that lasts
  • Front stash pocket for valuables
  • Large waterproof compartment
  • Enough space for all your gear
  • Breathable back and straps
  • Comfortable even when heavy
  • Works for travel and surf days
  • Protects your gear from sand/water
  • Mesh side pocket for water
  • Hard to organize and access gear in main compartment
  • Volume: 32 liter

Dakine Patrol Backpack

Dakine Patrol Backpack, Plum Shadow, One Size

The Dakine Patrol Backpack is a great surf pack as long as it doesn’t get wet. Unlike the other backpacks, this is not described as being resistant to water at all, so don’t let it get wet if you buy it.

It is, though, a great all-around backpack for adventures. The pack is made to handle rugged environments and it features enough storage compartments and pockets to ensure you can carry everything you need in an easy and organized way.

There is a laptop compartment, dedicated sunglasses pocket, mesh side pockets, and a large compartment for all your other essentials too. In addition to this, the carrying system is also excellent so you won’t overheat and you will have all the support you need.

  • More affordable than others
  • Great size for work, travel, and surf days
  • Multiple pockets for organizing gear
  • Fleece lined sunglass pocket
  • Mesh pockets for water bottles
  • Padded laptop compartment
  • Breathable straps and back
  • Comfy to carry
  • Well made and long lasting
  • Not resistant to water
  • Volume: 20 liter
  • Waterproof: No
  • Pockets: 5+
  • Weight: 1 lb

Rip Curl F-light 2.0 Surf Backpack

Rip Curl 2018 F-Light 2.0 Surf 40L Back Pack MIDNIGHT BBPSR2

The Rip Curl F-light 2.0 Surf Backpack is an awesome all-around pack that is great for everything from surfing to diving to work and travel.

It comes with multiple compartments, one of which is a wet/dry compartment which you can use as a wet section for your wetsuit or boardshorts after a session. 

There is also a cooler pocket for keeping drinks cold, a dedicated external wax and sunscreen pocket plus a slot for a laptop. Rip Curl really did think of everything on this one! 

Built from 100% polyester, this pack is durable and with a size of 40 liters, there is more than enough room inside to pack for a multi-day adventure. Plus with all its organizational features, it is awesome to travel with too!

  • Great amount of space
  • Good for surf and travel
  • Includes a wet/dry section
  • Awesome external insulated cooler pocket
  • Dedicated external wax and sunscreen pocket
  • Easy to find things
  • Comfortable straps and back panel
  • Very durable and handles the salt
  • Pockets for water bottles
  • Not 100% waterproof
  • Material: 100% polyester
  • Waterproof: One compartment

What To Look For In The Best Surf Backpack

Waterproofing.

Life by and in the sea is tough on gear and to keep things like cameras, phones, and other accessories protected, it is best if they are in a waterproof bag.

Not all the best surfing backpacks are waterproof but some of them are. Others come with a waterproof compartment. Whichever one you go for, make sure there is a waterproof section that offers the best gear protection.

Gear Accessibility & Organization

Being able to find what you need when you need it is a lovely thing. Emptying out a roll top to find something at the bottom while on a surf boat is not! Make sure your surf pack has a few different pockets or compartments so you can keep things you need often easily accessible.

Some packs have lots of compartments, others have just one, so make sure to choose wisely.

Versatility

Having a dedicated surf pack is one thing but having one that does it all is better. Looking for packs that work for surfing but you can also take work and have things like a valuables pocket, laptop slot, and more.

Our Favorite Surf Backpacks

Best of the best.

The best surfing backpack featured in the article is the Dakine Cyclone II Dry Pack as it is the perfect balance of function and versatility. Built to handle everything the ocean and beach can throw at it, you can guarantee your gear will be safe and with extras like front pockets and a laptop compartment, you can use it for everything from work to travel.

Its durable build will last years in the salt, it is the perfect size for long or short trips, and being fully waterproof means nothing will ever get wet.

  • Waterproof welded construction with roll top closure
  • Welded front stash pockets with water resistant YKK PU coated zippers

Best On A Budget

Of all the surfing backpacks, the COR Surf Waterproof Dry Bag Backpack is your best bet if you are shopping on a budget. It is super affordable while being durable and it has everything you need from a surf pack.

The large main compartment is 100% waterproof so all your gear is always protected plus it even has a laptop slot so you can use it for work and travel. The exterior pockets make storing things you need to access quickly easy and it is comfy to carry too!

  • NEW and UPATED FOR 2022 WITH Premium YKK Zippers and Internal Zip Stash Pocket. Crafted to Ensure the Harshest Elements: The Cor Surf waterproof dry bag backpack features sonically welded seams that ensure their 100% waterproof and dirtproof integrity, complete with a roll top closure. In fact, it'll even float safely if you were to accidentally drop it in water, so you can be assured that your gear stay dry throughout your adventures.
  • 40-Liter Appetite with its 40L capacity, this waterproof backpack dry bag is as ready for the outdoors as you are. You’ll be shocked just how much you can fit in a 40 liter backpack! It's the buddy you can count on through snow, wind, rain, hail, rivers, ocean or on the back of your motorcycle, snowmobile, canoe and other devices. Did we say it'll also make a fantastic bag to work with its padded laptop sleeve interior compartment?

Best All-Rounder

The best all-around surf pack is the Patagonia Black Hole 25L . This surfing backpack is truly designed to do it all from work to travel, hiking, and surfing. It looks good, is very resistant to water, is a great size, and it has lots of spaces to store everything you need and ensure it is highly accessible at the same time.

There is a space for valuables, a laptop, fins, surf wax, and more. Plus the awesome carrying system ensures comfort while the bucket lid makes finding anything very easy too!

  • Black Hole Pack 25L

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  • Tent Brands
  • 4-Person Tents
  • 4 Seasons Tents
  • Backpacking Tents
  • Beach Tents
  • Cabin Tents
  • Multi-room Tents
  • Pop-up Tents
  • Truck Bed Tents
  • Underwear (Men)
  • Backpacks Under $100
  • Microspikes
  • Boonie Hats
  • In The World
  • New Zealand
  • Hardisde Luggage
  • Lightweight Luggage
  • Luggage Sets
  • Spinner Luggage
  • Durable Suitcases
  • Duffel Bags
  • Kids Luggage
  • Teen Luggage
  • Space Saving Luggage
  • Business Carry-Ons
  • Garment Carry-Ons
  • Suitcases Under $50
  • Travel Briefcase
  • Zipperless Suitcases
  • Rolling Briefcase
  • Luggage Straps
  • Luxury Brands
  • American Tourister
  • AmazonBasics
  • Delsey Chatelet
  • Anti-Theft Backpacks
  • Backpacks Under $50
  • Baby Carrier Backpacks
  • Cooler Backpacks
  • Backpacking Backpacks
  • Climbing Backpacks
  • Backpacks for Back Pain
  • Beach Backpacks
  • Hiking Backpacks
  • Business Travel Backpacks
  • Laptop Backpacks
  • Backpacks for Tablets
  • Commuter Backpacks
  • Travel Backpacks (Men)
  • Travel Backpacks (Women)
  • Waterproof Backpacks
  • Wheeled Backpacks
  • Down Jackets
  • Down Parkas
  • Fleece Jackets
  • Hardshell Jackets
  • Rain Jackets
  • Softshell Jackets
  • Eco Friendly Jackets
  • Gore Tex Alternatives
  • Heated Jackets
  • Lightweight Jackets
  • 3-in-1 Waterproof Jackets
  • Parajumper Jackets
  • Rain Poncho
  • Ski Jackets
  • Travel Hoodies
  • Travel Jackets
  • Winter Coats
  • Helly Hansen
  • Mammut Jackets
  • Patagonia Nanopuff
  • Survival Jackets
  • Flower Captions
  • Waterfall Captions
  • Tree Captions
  • Sunset Captions
  • Sunflower Captions
  • Rainbow Captions
  • Paddle Boarding Captions
  • Hot Air Balloon Captions
  • Kayaking Captions
  • Airplane Captions For Instagram
  • Forest Captions

The Best Travel Backpack

Four Osprey travel backpacks, two blue, two green, sitting next to each other.

A travel backpack easily carries all your stuff while letting you navigate airports, subway stations, and city streets. After traveling with travel backpacks for years across dozens of countries, we recommend the new versions of Osprey’s Farpoint 55 and Fairview 55 travel packs.

These bags fit everything we need for trips ranging from just a week to months of continuous travel. They come with a sizable daypack and are even airline-carry-on friendly.

They’re also highly adjustable and well padded, meaning that not only can you get a perfect fit, but the packs will also remain easy to carry and comfortable to wear for long treks, even if there are stairs, cobblestones, or narrow alleys in your way.

Everything we recommend

best surf travel backpack

Osprey Farpoint 55 Men’s Travel Pack

The best travel backpack for those with taller torsos.

Comfortable, adjustable, and carry-on capable, the Farpoint has everything we needed for a week, or even months, of travel.

Buying Options

best surf travel backpack

Osprey Fairview 55 Women’s Travel Pack

The best travel backpack for those with shorter torsos.

Comfortable, adjustable, and carry-on capable, the Fairview has everything we needed for a week, or even months, of travel.

best surf travel backpack

REI Co-op Ruckpack 60+ Recycled Travel Pack (Men’s)

Larger, for people with longer torsos.

Thick padding and highly adjustable straps make this pack just as comfortable and easy to fit as any other we tried for people with longer torsos. However, it’s too big to carry on a plane.

best surf travel backpack

REI Co-op Ruckpack 60+ Recycled Travel Pack (Women’s)

Larger, for people with shorter torsos.

Thick padding and highly adjustable straps make this pack just as comfortable and easy to fit as any other we tried for people with shorter torsos. However, it’s too big to carry on a plane.

Upgrade pick

best surf travel backpack

Salkan The Backpacker

More stylish, with more padding.

This attractive but expensive travel backpack has customizable straps and great, cushy padding. It comes in only one size, however.

I traveled with a Farpoint 55 for years, across dozens of countries for months at a time. In 2023, Osprey released new incarnations of the Farpoint 55  and the sized-for-smaller-torsos Fairview 55 .

These new versions mostly kept what we liked about the previous ones and fixed what we didn’t. Best of all, they’re among the least expensive travel backpacks available. After several years as runner-ups, the packs are once again our top picks.

The front of the main pack still unzips like a suitcase, so you can easily fit and access a week’s worth of clothes and toiletries. The daypack, which attaches to the front of the larger pack, has room for camera gear, daily essentials, and a small laptop (via a built-in sleeve). The main pack’s straps can tuck behind a zippered flap, so they won’t catch on anything if you check your luggage.

The best change: The main packs are now overhead-bin-sized for most airlines. (You’ll have to use the daypack as your underseat bag.) Other notable updates include height-adjustable shoulder straps and big exterior pockets on the daypack. Previous versions of these bags used ripstop nylon. The current one uses a heavy-duty recycled polyester, which held up well during a six-week trip across Europe.

Osprey offers a lifetime warranty.

If you want something a little larger than the Osprey packs, the REI Co-op Ruckpack 60+ Recycled Travel Pack - Men’s (for travelers with longer torsos) and the REI Co-op Ruckpack 60+ Recycled Travel Pack - Women’s (for travelers with shorter torsos) are just as adjustable and comfortable. The Ruckpacks had been our top picks for several years—we now prefer the new Ospreys because they’re carry-on sized.

The Ruckpacks have a smaller daypack than the Ospreys, which isn’t as good for photographers and digital nomads, but the main packs are larger, which can be good if you’re carrying bulkier items like a heavy jacket. While not carry-on-sized, the main pack’s overall dimensions are still manageable. The Ruckpack 60+ is also a little cheaper than the Osprey packs.

The Ruckpacks are made from a tough, recycled ripstop nylon that stands up to wear. REI offers a return period of up to a year if you’re a member (90 days if you’re not). However, if the problem is a manufacturing or materials defect, the packs are covered by REI Co-op’s warranty, which has no specified expiration date.

The Salkan The Backpacker looks and feels like a higher-end travel backpack. The polyester cloth feels extremely rugged, and there’s extensive padding in every place the pack touches your body.

Available in black and lightish green, The Backpacker has nine color options for its exterior compression straps, so you can mix and match based on your preferences—or even change them up. This gives The Backpacker the most customizable palette of any of our picks.

While looking more stylish on TikTok and Instagram isn’t generally a primary consideration for us, overall The Backpacker feels well made, and it has many of the same thoughtful features as our top and runner-up picks, including lots of pockets, smooth zippers, and height-adjustable shoulder straps.

These are offset, however, by a much higher price. Also, the main pack is technically too large to be a carry-on for most airlines, and the bag comes in only one size. (Salkan says it’s best for people 5-foot-6 to 6-foot-4).

The research

Why you should trust me, who this is for, how we picked, how we tested, our pick: osprey farpoint 55 travel pack and fairview 55 travel pack, runner-up: rei co-op ruckpack 60+ recycled travel pack, upgrade pick: salkan the backpacker, the competition.

A selfie of this guide's writer on top of the Rock of Gibraltar, with a picturesque view of the sea and the city behind him.

I’ve lived, worked, and visited 60 countries on six continents, as well as all 50 US states. I spent the majority of 2014 through 2020 traveling. Over the last few years, I’ve done a mix of extended road trips and multi-month international adventures. For all those years, I lived out of a backpack while abroad. I’ve also traveled in Africa, China, and throughout Europe with a variety of terrible backpacks and luggage, so I know what’s best to avoid.

In addition to covering travel gear here at Wirecutter, I write about travel and tech for CNET , Forbes , and The New York Times itself, and I have my own YouTube channel . My first travel book, Budget Travel for Dummies , comes out in January.

A travel backpack is for people who want to travel around the world unencumbered by heavy, slow-moving wheeled luggage. An internal-frame backpack in the 50- to 65-liter range has more than enough room for all of the possessions you need to travel anywhere for an indefinite amount of time—as long as you’re okay with doing laundry once you get to a destination. (If you’re going to carry heavy jackets, going-out clothes, multiple pairs of footwear, or other bulky gear, you may want something a tad bigger .)

A travel backpack is not for business travelers who’d like to maintain appearances, nor is it for outdoor enthusiasts looking to spend six weeks hiking in Patagonia. If you prefer something that rolls, check out our guide to the best carry-on luggage . And if you want something that you can carry on your back for shorter periods of time, that’s business-casual-friendly, and that you won’t ever need to check, see our review of the best carry-on travel bags .

Based on my experience and research, we looked for travel backpacks with the following qualities:

  • Fifty to 65 liters, including a daypack: We looked at bags between 50 and 65 liters (including an integral, removable daypack). Packs this size can easily hold everything you need for any length of trip, while being small enough to remain manageable while you’re wearing it.
  • Clamshell opening: For extended travel use, backpacking backpacks have annoying qualities, including that they tend to load only from the top and are sealed with a drawstring. This design saves weight and means there’s one less thing to break. But it’s a total hassle when you want something from the bottom of the bag because you have to unload and reload the entire pack. We looked for bags where the front zips fully open like a suitcase, making it easy to pack or repack and find things during your trip.
  • A well-framed structure: A fully loaded backpack, even a small one, can easily weigh more than 20 pounds. My old Farpoint 55 usually hovered in the mid-30s, though that included a DSLR, three lenses, a battery pack , a laptop, a 360 camera , and other work-related gear. A fully supported internal-frame pack distributes the weight onto your hips, which are much stronger than your back and shoulders. If you’re going to be doing a significant amount of walking, you’ll want something with a frame.
  • Durability: We looked for features to help the pack last, like some sort of cover to contain the straps (for easier storage on planes and trains), as well as lightweight and water-resistant materials.
  • Plenty of storage (and separation): I’ve done all of my traveling in the past five years with a 55-liter backpack (which includes a 15-liter daypack). I tend to overpack a bit, but 55 liters lets me carry everything I need (the full list is below) for weeks, or even months, at a time.

Here’s what I usually bring for any length of trip (and this is our standard kit for testing):

  • main pack (the command module , if you will)
  • daypack (the lunar excursion module )
  • pair of walking shoes or sneakers (along with the shoes I’m wearing)
  • five shirts, one pair of shorts, one pair of jeans (not shown because I wear them in transit), one merino wool underlayer
  • warm hat (because my head lacks insulation)
  • five pairs of underwear, five pairs of socks, one extra T-shirt for laundry day, one bathing suit (I really recommend packing cubes )
  • rain jacket in an Eagle Creek bag
  • various adapters , camera batteries, chargers, etc.
  • various toiletries, vitamins, etc.
  • Osprey rain cover
  • razor, toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.
  • well-worn flip-flops
  • travel towel
  • portable Bluetooth speaker
  • prescription dive mask
  • merino wool jacket
  • inflatable pillow
  • smartwool half-zip midlayer
  • sun hat (because my head hates sun)
  • extra travel adapter for daypack (when the daypack is my carry-on)
  • pen (vital!)
  • a small laptop (a 15-inch MacBook fits in all of our picks)
  • GoPro batteries and filters
  • earplugs and noise-cancelling headphones
  • Writer Emergency Pack
  • USB battery pack #1
  • USB battery pack #2
  • backup headphones
  • iPod Classic (because you can’t always stream music)
  • USB charger
  • Sigma 30 mm f1.4 (with a wireless mouse to its right)

For our first version of this guide in 2016, we narrowed our choices to 11 possible contenders. For that initial round of testing, I poked and prodded the different packs to sort out whether they had any obvious flaws or issues. I had adults of various sizes try each pack to get a sense of what short and tall people preferred.

For each subsequent update, including this one, I tested with similar methods whatever new or substantially redesigned packs were available. In between updates, I took one of our picks on some extended travels.

The Osprey Fairview 55 and the Osprey Farpoint 55 travel backpacks.

The Osprey Fairview 55 and the nearly identical Osprey Farpoint 55 have been one of our picks since the first version of this guide came out in 2016. (The Fairview is for people with 15- to 19-inch torsos, as measured from the top of your hip bone to your C7 vertebra, the one that sticks out when you press your chin to your chest. The Farpoint is for those with torsos from 17 to 22 inches long.) They’re now our top picks again, and here’s why.

Two green Osprey Farpoint 55 travel backpacks - the main pack on the left and the daypack on the right.

You can carry them on the plane. Once you detach the daypacks, the main packs are now carry-on-sized, making them the most versatile travel backpack we’ve tested. Interestingly, the total capacity remains roughly the same as those of our other picks—that is, we were able to stow the same amount of clothing in this bag as we could in the REI Co-op packs and the Salkan . The daypack, in this case, would count as your personal item—on most airlines, this would mean you couldn’t also bring a large purse or a briefcase.

Or check your bag—your choice. The shoulder straps can be secured behind a zippered panel, so if you want to check the bag or put it in a packed luggage compartment on a train or bus, they won’t catch on anything. Doing this essentially turns the main pack temporarily into a duffle bag, complete with sturdy and well-padded handles on the top and side.

The straps of the Osprey Farpoint 55 travel backpack.

They’re adjustable. Like our other picks, the main pack has height-adjustable shoulder straps. This crucial feature lets you get an all-important personalized fit that makes carrying the pack for any length of time far easier. The straps were padded enough for our testers’ comfort (though not as cushy as the Salkan’s, and slightly less so than the REI Co-op’s).

They have comfortable, easy-to-use daypacks. The daypacks are roughly the same size, or a little larger, than those of our other picks, something travelers who plan to cart lots of camera gear or other daily essentials will appreciate. The top of the shoulder straps connect to form a sturdy handle, which is extremely, ahem, handy. Each daypack easily holds a 15-inch MacBook and is comfortable to wear over long treks. There are two large exterior mesh pockets for water bottles . Though the daypack is a little short on organizational slots and pockets, its comfort made it the best overall.

The backpacks are tough. The Farpoint and the Fairview are made from 450-denier recycled polyester, which feels thick and sturdy, though more “plasticky” compared to the Salkan. (Denier is a measure of the fiber thickness in a fabric.) I put the Farpoint through six weeks of train, bus, and airplane trips across Europe, and it didn’t show any signs of wear or breaking.

You can attach a lock, if you want. Unlike the Salkan The Backpacker, both the main pack and the daypack’s main zippers are lockable.

The backpacks come in more color options than our other picks. Currently, the Farpoint comes in black, green, blue, and grey. The Fairview comes in black, green, red, and purple.

The packs include a lifetime warranty. Osprey’s All Mighty Guarantee covers repair of any damage or defect for life—or replaces the pack, if repair is impossible. If you just want to return the pack unused, you have 30 days.

It’s been a pick in this guide for seven years—and counting. I have put my money where my mouth is, so to speak. After testing this 2023 pack, I liked it so much that I bought one for myself, replacing an Osprey Farpoint that had been my go-to pack for years of travel.

It comes in additional capacities. If you already have a daypack that you like, the Farpoint 40 and the Fairview 40 are just the main pack from the 55 (they’re also picks in our guide to carry-on travel backpacks ). You can add the daypack later if you want. If you want more space and don’t mind checking your luggage, the Osprey Farpoint 70 and the Osprey Fairview 70 are slightly larger versions of their Farpoint 55 and Fairview 55 counterparts—anything we’ve said about the Farpoint 55 and the Fairview 55 also applies to them. They would work well for those who want to go with the Osprey but need more room in the main pack for, say, clothes for multiple climates, bulky items like ski parkas, and the like.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

  • The U-shaped opening of the daypack is surprisingly small, restricting access. You can’t easily spot things at the bottom or carry bulky items. On the other hand, this does limit what might spill out of the pack if you forget to fully close it, something that has happened to me several times with the old half-clamshell design.
  • Previous versions of the Farpoint and the Fairview had large zippers that basically fused the daypack to the main pack. With this version, the daypack hangs off the back, secured only by the nylon compression straps. The straps loop through reinforced parts of the daypack, so it seems reasonably secure, and this new design does let you stuff more things in both packs—but as someone who carries a lot of expensive gear in the daypack, I’m less than excited about it.
  • The pack isn’t as comfortable as the heavily padded Salkan. Osprey seems to have prioritized weight and breathability over padding. In warmer climates, though, this could be a good thing.
  • Unlike our other picks, the Farpoint and the Fairview don’t include a rain cover. One is available separately, however. Osprey recommends the large size for the 55 L packs.
  • The new design is slightly smaller than the old one, as well as being a little smaller than the REI Co-op and Salkan packs.
  • Lastly, while looks are entirely subjective, the Farpoint and the Fairview are very much “backpack-looking backpacks.” The dark color choices are safe, to put it mildly.

Two blue REI Co-op Ruckpack 60+ Recycled Travel Packs - the main pack on the left and the daypack on the right.

The REI Co-op Ruckpack 60+ Recycled Travel Pack - Men’s and the REI Co-op Ruckpack 60+ Recycled Travel Pack - Women’s were previously our top picks, until they were replaced this year by the improved Osprey packs.

It’s easy to get just the right fit. The Ruckpack has well-padded and height-adjustable straps, closer in size and padding to those of the Salkan than those of the Osprey . Like the Osprey but unlike the Salkan, the Ruckpack comes in two models, one marketed toward men and the other toward women. The men’s model, available in black or blue, is for people with torsos between 17 and 21 inches. The women’s model, available in black or reddish orange, fits torsos between 15 and 19 inches.

It’s sturdy. The Ruckpack uses a recycled, 210-denier ripstop nylon. It feels similarly sturdy as the Osprey, though not as sturdy as the Salkan. Previous versions of the Ruckpack have held up well over time, and we’ll continue testing to see how the 2023 version wears.

It’s bigger than the Osprey, although the daypack is smaller. Capacity wise, there’s a bit more room in the Ruckpack’s main pack than in the slightly smaller Osprey’s. The daypack, however, is a little smaller. Which backpack works better depends on what gear you carry and how you want to carry it. If you have a lot of things you want on your person at all times, the Osprey is better. If you have more or bulkier clothes, and no camera or less-bulky daypack gear, the REI might be better.

The blue REI Co-op Ruckpack 60+ Recycled Travel pack daypack.

It has more pockets than our top pick. These pockets are on the inside (three are accessible via external zippers) and the outside (on the hip belt, for instance). This is especially convenient if you want to quickly stash items or get to them without having to open the main compartment. And, unlike the Osprey packs, the Ruckpack includes a rain cover.

You will have to check it. The Ruckpack’s dimensions make it too large to qualify as a carry-on, even if you detach the daypack from the main pack. The main pack’s straps can be stored behind a zippered panel when you check your bag.

The main pack’s zippers are easily lockable. However, the daypack’s zippers don’t have the standard holes for easy locking. Instead, you have to thread the lock through the holes in the pull tabs. This isn’t a huge deal, but it’s an odd oversight.

REI has a good return policy. REI has a one-year “ 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed ” return policy if you’re a member (90 days if you’re not). This is not quite as epic as Osprey’s lifetime guarantee, but you should have enough time to determine whether or not you like the pack. However, if the issue is a manufacturing defect, you should be able to return it any time.

The gray Salkan The Backpacker travel backpacks - the main pack on the left and the daypack on the right.

The Salkan The Backpacker is a higher-end travel backpack for people who want the comfort of our top pick but are willing to pay more for swappable design options and more organization.

It has more organization than our top pick. The capacity of the main pack is 45 liters, basically the same as that of our main picks . It has more organization and compartments than the Osprey packs, however. There are two large water-bottle compartments on either side and a laptop compartment inside, as well as several other small, zippered compartments. In addition to the main zippered hatch, the top opens with a drawstring like a hiking backpack, allowing fast access or storage. This drawstring design does allow you to stuff a bit more into the pack than the Osprey or REI Co-op packs. However, the main pack is technically too tall to be a carry-on for most airlines.

The straps of the Salkan The Backpacker travel backpack.

It has the best padding. The shoulder straps are well padded—the best I’ve seen—and height adjustable. The back panel and hip straps are generously padded, too. All this does make the pack nearly twice as heavy as the Osprey, though we’re talking only a few pounds (under 8 pounds compared with the Farpoint’s 4-plus pounds). For reference, the Farpoint, fully loaded with all my clothes, heavy camera gear, and so on, was around 35 pounds, including the bag itself.

You can customize it. The pack is available in two main colors: black and light green. In addition, the straps have complementary color options, including orange (shown above), pink, and maroon, plus five other choices. This allows for more personalization and flair compared to the Osprey and REI Co-op packs. Salkan also sells several accessories to go with The Backpacker, such as packing cubes, water bottles, and a laundry bag that attaches to the inside of the main pack.

It’s sturdy—but has not-so-great attachments. The bag’s 900-denier polyester fabric (even stronger than our top pick’s 450-denier fabric) is extremely strong and should resist rips or tears. What zippers The Backpacker has run smoothly, but the design oddly eschews them in key places. While the main compartment has a zipper, as do multiple smaller compartments, the main and daypack’s top openings do not, using drawstrings and a flap instead. These flaps are secured with aluminum “G”-shaped hooks (Salkan calls them buckles) that slide into nylon straps. The hooks feel nice in your hand and could well last longer than the plastic clips on the Osprey and REI Co-op packs. However, connecting them takes a few moments longer than using a clip or zipper would—time that adds up. They also feel less secure, like they could slide loose under load and movement. (These hooks are also what connect the daypack to the main pack.)

It has a great warranty. Salkan has a “ ‘No Landfill’ Lifetime Guarantee ”: “If there is something wrong with your backpack that shouldn’t be, then we’ll try to repair it, and if we can’t, we’ll replace it.” In addition, the company has a 100-day trial period within which you can return or exchange the pack if you don’t like it.

But it’s pricey. The Backpack costs much more than the Osprey or REI Co-op packs. While it’s arguably better-looking than either, this doesn’t add much functional difference. The pack’s comfortable, but so are the others. It’s adjustable, but so are the others. It comes with a rain cover, but so does the REI Co-op pack, and Osprey’s is $40. Is the Salkan’s extra cost and organization worth the better aesthetics? That’s not for me to say.

And we couldn’t attach a lock. There’s no way to lock either the main pack or the daypack. There’s no way to attach a lock to the “G” hooks. The nylon drawstrings at the main pack’s top opening, as well as the daypack’s, offer no practical way of attaching a lock. For such a well-designed and feature-rich pack, this is a surprising oversight. Is this a dealbreaker? Probably not, at least for most people. With the daypack buckled and the drawstring closed, it’s highly unlikely someone could reach in while you’re wearing it without you noticing. However, I frequently leave my pack in luggage rooms at hotels or the occasional hostel without lockers, and not being able to lock it when it’s out of sight would concern me.

This is not a comprehensive list of everything we tested in previous iterations of this guide—just what’s still available.

During our research, we checked out a number of companies that make great packs, but none of those packs met all of our criteria. In most cases this was because the company specialized in top-loading bags, bags with wheels, bags that were too big, or very large bags that didn’t include daypacks. These companies included Black Diamond, Berghaus, Dakine, Eagle Creek, eBags, EMS, Ferrino, Gregory, High Sierra, Kathmandu, Kelty, Minaal, MEI, The North Face, Ortovox, Outdoor Research, Patagonia, Rick Steves, Thule, Timbuk2, and Victorinox.

The Deuter Aviant Access Pro has many of the features we liked, but its daypack is too small. The pack’s also more expensive than our top picks.

The men’s and women’s Thule Landmark 60L are well-made, sturdy packs, with a wide main-pack opening and most of the same features that we like in the other packs. They’re more expensive, though, and the daypacks aren’t as comfortable.

The Tropicfeel Shelter Backpack is a highly customizable pack to which you can add “modules” that expand capacity or change its use. It’s a cool idea, and the pack seems well designed, but it’s extremely expensive and doesn’t really add that much practical use over our main picks.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Meet your guide

best surf travel backpack

Geoffrey Morrison

Geoffrey Morrison is Wirecutter’s former AV editor, current editor-at-large, and a travel writer and photographer. He covers action cameras, gimbals, travel backpacks, and other gear. He has been to all 50 states and 60 countries, and he is the author of Budget Travel for Dummies and the sci-fi novel Undersea .

Further reading

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Packing for the vacation of a lifetime? Don’t forget to put a good camera in your bag. We have picks for travelers (and vacations) of all kinds.

Four tripods that we tested to find the best tripod, each with a camera attached to the top.

The Best Tripod

by Erin Roberts, Arriana Vasquez, and Phil Ryan

If you want to shoot sharp photos while using a slow shutter speed, we think the Vanguard Alta Pro 2+ 263AB100 tripod is the best choice.

An array of our top picks for the best portable bluetooth speakers against a beige background.

The Best Portable Bluetooth Speaker

by Brent Butterworth

The UE Wonderboom 3 is the all-around best portable Bluetooth speaker because it sounds good and looks cool, and it’s the most rugged model we’ve tested.

A speaker sits on a table next to a person in a lounge chair in front of a backyard pool.

How to Get Great Sound in Your Backyard

Want to listen to music, internet radio, or podcasts in your backyard? We explain all the different ways to do it.

Surf Indonesia

TOP 5 SURFING BACKPACKS IN 2023

surfing-backpacks

WHY TRUST OUR REVIEWS?

Surf Indonesia has tested these products in and out of the surf in different conditions around the world. The best products are handpicked, and the features are discussed (even argued) and analyzed from our experience. Then the best-of-the-best are selected with reviews written by actual surfers. We aren’t paid to talk about certain brands, as an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases if you purchase a product through one of our links.

best surf travel backpack

MULTI PURPOSE

best surf travel backpack

TRAVEL ESSENTIAL

best surf travel backpack

MOST RATINGS

best surf travel backpack

Mission 40L Backpack

40L Builder Pack

F-light 40L Hydro Eco Surf Backpack

Mission Surf DLX Wet/Dry 32L Backpack

Men’s Kitchen Sink Backpack

You won’t want to travel without this backpack! Loaded with lots of purpose-built and extremely practical pockets. A very well-constructed and thought-out backpack that’s worth every penny.

A backpack that can do it all. Not only purpose-built for carrying tools (even chainsaws) but a great quality and reliable backpack for surf travel due to its organizational pockets.

Loaded with features galore this surfing backpack is the real deal. Roll and clip wet/dry section, compression cords, fin organizer, EVA molded front section for added protection of contents, and more.

Great value for money, a little smaller for lighter traveling. Super convenient seam-sealed waterproof roll top wet or dry pocket. Great backpack option for trips to the beach, surf travel, or boat trips.

This surfing backpack has a staggering 5000+ ratings and 270+ answered questions on its product page. It’s easy to see why it’s called the Kitchen Sink Backpack, they’ve thought of everything.

Size: 40 liters Laptop compartment: Yes Wet gear pocket: Yes Material: Lightweight rip-stop polyurethane with a water and abrasion-resistant PU finish.

Super comfortable, with easy access to important things when traveling. There’s a waterproof compartment for your damp gear, lockable splash-proof zippers, and other features that make this backpack the perfect option for surf travel.

Size: 40 liters Laptop compartment: No Wet gear pocket: No Material: Strong and durable 1000D nylon with durable water repellent and a polyester lining.

If you’ve got a bulky item that you need to lug around and it doesn’t fit in your traditional backpack, this is the one for you. There is a tonne of unique features in this backpack, including added padding for comfort. Be sure to check it out.

Size: 40 liters Laptop compartment: Yes Wet gear pocket: Yes Material: Rip-stop polyester, water-resistant TPE coated fabric and EVA moulded front panels.

This is a sturdy and durable surfing backpack that is still very lightweight. It even has an insulated cooler pocket and fleece lined pockets for valuables. An extremely versatile backpack that can be used for the beach and/or office.

Size: 32 liters Laptop compartment: Yes Wet gear pocket: Yes Material: 600D Polyester diamond dobby weave with PU coating.

This is a very well-constructed surfing backpack that is made to last with a limited lifetime warranty. It has a good mix of pockets keeping all the important stuff within easy reach, including fleece-lined sunglasses storage. Handy for any kind of surf travel.

Size: 34 liters Laptop compartment: Yes Wet gear pocket: Yes Material: 69% Nylon, 31% Polyester.

Think serious hardware and security with versatile storage options and a heavy-duty appeal. If you’re looking for a surfing backpack that can do it all, this is the one for you. You’ll find a lot of internal pockets which are great for arranging small items and features to eliminate pick pocketing!

This surfing backpack is truly hard to fault. Constructed by FCS, one of the leading global surf gear brands.

Maybe a little bulky if you don’t need all the storage available on the exterior of the backpack.

The backpack is quite ridged which some people like and some don’t (but that comes down to personal preference).

This is a very hard backpack to fault. It’s super convenient, but if you’re looking for a backpack to store a lot of gear then you may want something bigger.

It maybe a little overkill for a quick trip to the beach but super handy for traveling.

This is a very well-constructed purpose-built surfing backpack that is made to last with a limited lifetime warranty. It has a good mix of pockets keeping all the important stuff within easy reach, including fleece-lined sunglasses st

Size: 34 liters Laptop compartment: Yes Wet gear pocket: Yes Material: 69% Nylon, 31% Polyester

Think serious hardware and security with versatile storage options and a heavy-duty appeal. If you’re looking for a surfing backpack that can do it all, this is the one for you. You’ll find a lot of internal pockets which are great for arranging small items, easy access to your laptop, and features to eliminate pickpocketing!

HOW WE TEST PRODUCTS

We recommend these products based on many different surfers’ perspectives and real experiences using the products. Those expert perspectives are discussed and evaluated in depth to cut through the many products available online. Based on hours of intensive research and the consideration of many factors, we bring you only the best-of-the-best for consideration. Our recommended go-to’s.

best surf travel backpack

Surfers consulted

best surf travel backpack

Factors considered

best surf travel backpack

Hours evaluation

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OUR GO-TO’S

best surf travel backpack

THE GUTS OF IT…

best surf travel backpack

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT SURFING BACKPACKS

Who invented the first backpack.

The first backpacks were made from sticks and canvas fabric, and were used to carry soldiers’ equipment when traversing a battlefield.

In 1882, Camille Poirier improved the modern backpack at the time by adding straps to make it more durable and relieve stress from soldiers’ shoulders and backs. 

Hiker and mountaineer Gerry Cunningham created the lighter, utilitarian backpack in 1938, featuring zipped sections for ease of access by an outdoorsman. By 1967, Gerry Cunningham had revolutionized the modern-day backpack, introducing the durable, lightweight, tear-drop-shaped nylon backpack.

In 1950, Ake Nordin founded Fjallraven, when he made a small canvas pack that was tall and narrow for a backpacker; and in 1952, Dick and Nina Kelty created the modern backpacking pack, using aluminum from discarded planes to create larger, lighter frames for their gear. The pair introduced contoured frames, cushioned shoulder straps, and sternum straps.

By the 1960s, innovations that would define modern backpack design were set.

What to look for in backpacks for surf travel?

The perfect surfing backpack that never lets you down is one that has well-thought-out storage for the items you travel with.

But what sets surfing backpacks apart from regular backpacks is that they let you store wet gear inside one isolated compartment from the rest of your bag’s dry contents.

For serious surf trips on a boat, a 100% waterproof backpack to keep your gear dry is an option you may need also.  

MORE SURF GEAR REVIEWS

Best wetsuits, best beginner surfboards, the surfers first aid kit.

best surf travel backpack

best surf travel backpack

10 of the Best Surfboard Travel Bags in 2023

best surf travel backpack

Are you looking for the best surfboard travel bags in 2023? Surfers know how important it is to have a reliable and durable bag that can protect their surfboard from damage during those long trips to their dream destination. Whether you’re planning a trip to a break up the coast or a long-haul journey, having the right surfboard bag is essential.

In this article, we will explore the features, benefits and unique specs of different types of surfboard travel bags available in 2023, as well as provide insight into which one might be right for you.

best surf travel backpack

Table of Contents

Pro-lite Coffin Surfboard Travel Bag Triple/Quad (3-4 Boards)

The Pro-Lite Coffin Surfboard Travel Bag is the perfect solution for surfers who need to travel with several shortboards. Alternatively, ditch your suitcase or backpack and load your clothes and toiletries into your coffin bag. Its tough material and thick padding provide maximum protection from bumps and scratches while its lightweight construction makes it easy to carry around. The bag also comes with adjustable straps so you can customize the fit of your board in the bag, making sure that it is secure during travel.

best surf travel backpack

  • This bag is designed for the traveling surfer taking 3-4 boards. Cut 25″ wide with a 10″ gusset to allow for extra internal volume. 10mm foam protection.
  • Includes one internal divider and one board packer bag, internal seat belt straps, four exterior compression straps and 600 Denier poly on top and bottom.
  • Identification badge on side.
  • Multiple interior storage/fin pockets.
  • Vent to allow air flow to keep boards cool.
  • Adjustable deluxe shoulder strap with Velcro closure system.
  • Exterior side pocket for tie downs/molded rubber handles on ends and side.
  • Size 6’6″

Available on Amazon

Dakine Recon Surf Thruster Travel Bag – Carbon

If you’re looking for a surfboard bag that will help you transport two shortboards with ease, then the Dakine Recon Surf Thruster Travel Bag – Carbon is a great choice. This bag offers a range of features and benefits that make it ideal for any surfer who needs to take their gear on the go. We especially like the heat reflecting bottom shield.

best surf travel backpack

  • Fits up to two boards while keeping the bottom board hidden from sight
  • 600D diamond ripstop top for lightweight durability
  • Heat reflecting energy shield bottom
  • 3/8″ (10MM) Closed cell foam for maximum protection
  • Heavy duty, YKK molded zipper with internal rail protection
  • 65% Polyester, 14% Neoprene, 13% Nylon, 7% Spandex, 1% Polyurethane
  • Size 7’6″

FCS Travel 2 All Purpose Boardbag

A perennial favourite, the FCS Travel 2 All Purpose surfboard bag is the perfect companion for any surfer who wants a tidy yet study, compact yet spacious travel bag.

This bag features a rugged construction and multiple compartments, making it ideal for storing and transporting your surfboard, plus accessories. The padded rails are a lifesaver — or should we say a rail saver — and never once have we had damage when arriving at a destination.

It also has a padded shoulder strap for easy carrying and adjustable straps to ensure a secure fit. With its durable design, this bag will keep your board safe while you travel, allowing you to enjoy the waves wherever you go!

best surf travel backpack

  • 10mm dual density padding on body: provides an extra tough layer of protection against impact.
  • Lightweight: lightweight material ​to minimise boardbag weight.
  • 5mm high density padding on nose, provides a tough layer of protection against impact.
  • Designed in collaboration with the world’s leading surf athletes and surfboard shapers, the FCS range offers a diverse range of surfboard accesories suited to a variety of board models, wave conditions and surfing styles. FCS fins are the preferred choice by the world’s best surfers and shapers.
  • Padded rail protection, internal layer of protection along the zipper path helps to prevent rail damage.
  • Expandable Fin Wing, allows you to carry your board with or without fins.;
  • Ergonomic shoulder pad, double layered and vented to provide the ultimate in comfort and support.
  • Long-life moulded PK Delrin zipper – built for strength, durability and resistance to seizing.
  • Size 6’0″

Ocean & Earth Double Surfboard Bag

This is an AWESOME choice. At Surfd, we’ve had two of these O&E bags over the years and they never disappoint. They’re the perfect size and the rugged design means that boards arrive safe and sound. Perfect for travelling with a regular shortboard and a fish, this bag is designed to provide maximum protection and convenience. It features a durable construction, adjustable straps, and plenty of room for two boards. This bag will keep your boards safe and secure during your travels, so you can focus on getting to your destination.

best surf travel backpack

  • Great for day trips, traveling, and storage
  • Protects surfboard from the sun’s harmful rays and from banging against things
  • Convenient carry strap

Quiksilver Expedition Triple 3-4 Boardbag

The Quiksilver Expedition Triple 3-4 Boardbag is an essential piece of equipment for the intrepid surfer. This boardbag is designed to protect your boards from the elements while providing easy access to your equipment. It features a triple layer of protection, with a durable ripstop fabric on the outside, an EVA foam mid-layer and a soft inner lining. The bag also has an adjustable shoulder strap, multiple pockets for storage and a waterproof zipper closure. With its lightweight design and great features, this boardbag is sure to keep your boards safe and secure during any adventure.

best surf travel backpack

  • Lightweight and durable 420D diamond deluxe fabric exclusive to Quiksilver
  • Ultra-strong and lightweight flat weave internal PE Tarpaulin fabric
  • Form-fitting outline – reducing excess fabric
  • Removable internal padded dividers
  • Mesh air ventilation and drainage
  • PU Inline skate wheels
  • Side wall and internal compression straps
  • Heavy duty metal j-clips
  • Multiple padded neoprene carry handles
  • Detachable padded shoulder strap
  • Marine grade chunky tooth zipper with PK sliders
  • Composition: 20% polyester, 30% tarpaulin, 30% EPE foam, 5% polyester webbing, 5% poly mesh
  • Size 6.8″

Available on Quiksilver.com

best surf travel backpack

FK Surf Wheelie Travel Cover

FK Surf Wheelie Travel surfboard bag is an ideal choice for surfers who have to drag their boards a long distance. Ever tried to put a surfboard on a standard luggage trolley? Things can go pear-shapoed fast. This surfboard bag is designed to make it easy to transport your board from one place to another using wheels. Just roll it out of the airport and focus on getting where you’re going. It comes with several features that make it the perfect companion for any surfer. Its adjustable straps, waterproof material, and extra pockets make it one of the best choices for carrying your boards around. With its high-quality construction and reasonable price, FK Surf Wheelie Travel surfboard bag is the perfect choice for any avid surfer.

best surf travel backpack

  • Ultra-lightweight durable ultrahex ripstop
  • Fixed polyurethane wheels on one end of cover
  • 10mm padding all-around
  • Adjustable, detachable shoulder straps
  • Waterproof lining
  • Nose and tail reinforcements
  • Multiple carry handles
  • Internal compression straps
  • Premium YKK zippers
  • Large FRAGILE Print on both sides of cover
  • Clear identification card pocket
  • Fits 3-4 Surfboards

Available on FK Surf

Creatures of Leisure Fish Double Surfboard Bag

This surfboard bag is designed for the cruisy dude and dudette. Pack your fish or nugget and go have fun. Conventional bags are often too slim to fit that summer fish so Creatures came up with a solution.

Creatures of Leisure strive to meld the lessons of their experience with cutting edge materials and designs to create highly functional, premium quality surfing accessories that are built to last. Their core motivation remains the same: to further enhance the surfing experience through products of integrity and genuine innovation.

best surf travel backpack

  • Maximum board protection – Perfect day use surf board bag for traveling, storing and transporting your board
  • Durable, touch & water resistant – Travel surfboard cover made to protect with Creatures exclusive diamond-tech fabric
  • Exclusive innovation – Hydrophobic Diamond-Tech fabric top with 600D polyester bottom, 5mm closed cell foam padding to protect your surf gear
  • Ease of travel – EVA reinforced padded carrying handle with neoprene lining and an ergonomic mesh-lined shoulder strap for ease when traveling through the airport and to and from the beach
  • Our commitment to quality – We strive to meld our experience with cutting edge materials & designs to create highly functional, premium quality surfing accessories that are built to last
  • Size 5’10”

Needessentials Single Hybrid Travel Board Bag

The Needessentials   Single Travel board bag is made using durable 600D Nylon fabric with 8mm closed cell padding. It features a heavy-duty YKK zipper and air ventilation panel making it a solid travel board bag for travelling in all conditions on any form of transport.

This is a single traditional travel cover that caters for a variety of different board shapes from regular shortboards to fishes. If you ride a slightly meatier mini-mal this might be for you!

best surf travel backpack

  • Durable 600D coated polyester water repellent fabric
  • 8mm closed cell foam padding
  • Fin slot with velcro closure
  • Heat reflective silver tarpee upside
  • Generous outline to fit wider and alternative boards
  • Removable padded shoulder strap and neoprene handle
  • Air Ventilation panel 
  • Heavy-duty plastic YKK anti-corrosion zipper 
  • Blank boardbag / no external branding
  • Recommended to fit boards 7’2″ – 8’0 up to 22 inches wide

Availible on Needessentials.com

Dakine John John Florence Mission Surfboard Bag

The Dakine John John Florence Mission Surfboard Bag provides great protection against the elements, ensuring that your board stays safe and secure no matter what kind of conditions you’re facing. The 420D nylon shell has a reliable YKK zipper, and the heat-reflective inner works with the vents to the dry the board quickly. There’s an internal storage sized for fins, and the stash pocket provides a secure place to stash your valuables while you surf. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an extended surf trip, the Dakine John John Florence Mission Surfboard Bag has everything you need to make sure that your board is well taken care of.

best surf travel backpack

  • Surfboard bag built for thruster boards
  • Full 10mm foam padding provides travel-friend impact absorption
  • 420D nylon ripstop shell with YKK watertight zippered closure
  • Heat-reflecting energy shield bottom and vents dry boards quick
  • Removable shoulder strap and padded handle customize carrying
  • Internal fin storage and external stash pocket provide thoughtful organization

Available on Backcountry

Dakine Mission Noserider Surfboard Bag

The Dakine Mission Noserider Surfboard Bag is a great piece of gear. After you’ve paid your excess luggage fees you can at least breathe a sigh of relief that your board will be safe in the luggage hold.

The bag comes with a removable fin slot and mesh pocket for additional storage.

best surf travel backpack

  • A lightweight longboard bag for everyday use
  • Diamond ripstop fabric adds durability and resists tears
  • Closed-cell foam increases protection from dings and small drops
  • Energy shield bottom reflects heat to prevent warping
  • Heavy-duty zippers include internal rail protection
  • TPU venting allows airflow to keep your gear dry
  • Padded, removable shoulder strap stashes when not in use
  • Wax and fin pocket keeps your accessories organized

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Store And Pack It In One Of The Best Surf Backpacks (2022)

When the surf’s up, you may be filled with the compulsion to grab your board and nearest bag or pack on your way out the beach.

But a little advance preparation can help you have a more enjoyable time, which is why it pays to invest in a high-quality surf backpack.

Surf backpacks come in a dizzying array for styles, shapes, capacities and capabilities. This may be great for helping you pick out exactly what you want and need, but it can also prove kind of confusing, especially if you’ve never been in the market for a surf backpack before.

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Here’s an introductory overview to help guide you through some essential questions and considerations as you shop for the surf backpack that best suits your needs.

What Is a Surf Backpack?

As the name suggests, a surf backpack is a backpack designed especially for the needs of surfers.

But even the name doesn’t tell the whole story, since surf backpacks can prove equally useful for sailors, hikers, kayakers, campers, and everyone else who needs portable storage for their sports gear.

You may even want your surf backpack to double as your everyday backpack for school or work — especially if you bike to and from your destination, commute on foot or are otherwise exposed to the elements on a regular basis.

The key advantage of a surf backpack over more general-purpose backpacks is that it’s designed for some degree of water resistance.

Surf backpacks also typically include numerous external hooks, loops and other attachment points for outdoor tools and accessories.

When you own a surf backpack, you’ve got an all-weather bag that can accommodate all kinds of situations and activities.

In fact, your surf backpack may turn out to be the only light travel bag you ever need, making it a tremendous value at any price.

What to Consider in Your Search for the Ideal Surf Backpack

If there are many kinds of surf backpacks to choose from, how do you narrow your search to the specific features you want? Start by thinking about how each backpack on your list addresses the following considerations:

Water Resistance

Surf backpacks come in three major categories when it comes to water resistance: Wet, dry, and wet/dry. Wet surf backpacks, also known as wetsuit backpacks, are so named because they have waterproof compartments in them for stashing a used wetsuit, swimsuit or towel.

A truly waterproof wet surf backpack can actually be filled with clean water and used to soak dirty or salty gear. By contrast, a dry surf backpack’s focus is on preventing outside water from seeping in.

You can surf with a dry backpack on without worrying that the contents inside it will become soaked — although you may find it hard to surf with your usual skill while wearing one. More commonly, dry surf backpacks come in handy when you’re paddling to a distant sand bank or beach break.

Wet/dry surf backpacks combine the best features of both of these categories. In addition to keeping your stored gear dry, they also boast waterproof internal compartments for storing wet gear without dampening your other possessions.

What size of surf backpack should you look for? Many products typically offer two or more size/capacity options to accommodate different body sizes and storage needs.

Keep in mind that some surf backpacks are designed to be extremely soft and expandable or collapsible, while others have a more rigid, molded construction.

Selecting a surf backpack with a width narrower than your own shoulder span will help to prevent your arms and elbows from bumping into it or rubbing against it all the time.

A typical surf backpack may weigh anywhere from 2.5 pounds (1.13 kg) to 4 pounds (1.81 kg), depending on its overall size and the way it’s constructed.

Most of the weight you’re lugging around will be from the items you’ve stashed away, not from the backpack itself, no matter what kind of model you select.

With this in mind, however, you might decide to go with the lightest backpack you can find if you know that you’ll be stuffing it with as much gear as it can hold, if only to balance the scales by an extra pound or so.

Different surf backpacks feature different arrangement of interior and exterior pockets.

Check carefully to make sure that the product you’re looking at offers the right number and sizes of pockets for your purposes — including waterproof laptop storage, if you intend to carry your computer along.

If you like to have ready access to your water bottle or other handy devices, examine the product description and accompanying images closely to determine whether you’ll have all the hooks, loops and/or Velcro strips you’re likely to need.

Style is a completely subjective criterion, but you want to have a surf backpack that not only reflects your own personal style but will also suit the various environments you plan on using it in.

For instance, if you’re solely interested in using your backpack out on the open waves, a bright solid color that reflects plenty of sunlight makes an obvious first choice.

On the other hand, if you think you might also be bringing your back with you to seaside restaurants, upscale camping centers or your office workplace, you might be better off selecting a backpack in classic black or an understated gray.

Some products come in multiple color options, while others offer two or three colors — and still others come in only one color.

As for other styling questions, you may want to choose a more streamlined, elegant style for a backpack that doubles as everyday luggage, and a more pocket-bedecked “function-first” style for purely recreational usage.

Top Surf Backpacks Reviewed

Now that have a little better idea of what to look for in a surf backpack — it’s time to do some looking!

Here are four fine examples of good-looking, highly-functional surf backpacks to help you get the right product for your budget, style and purposes.

1. Rip Curl Men’s F-Light Surf Molded Backpack

The Rip Curl Men’s F-Light Surf Molded Backpack comes in one color (midnight black) and one size (12″ x 15″ x 6″) — but you find won’t find it limited in its usefulness in your surfing adventures and everyday life.

Rip Curl Men's F-Light Surf Molded Backpack, Midnight, 1SZ

  • SPACIOUS BACKPACK: The Rip Curl Surf Molded Backpack is durable enough for your biggest trips. Get ready for your next adventure with our F-Light lightweight backpack. A great surf backpack for men and women for use as a carry on or just for everyday
  • LIGHTWEIGHT + DURABLE: Suitable for international travel, easily fits as an airplane carry on. Super lightweight and made with 100% polyester. Compression straps help keep belongings intact and compact with a zippered closure for secure carrying
  • COMFORTABLE SURF PACK: The perforated dual density shoulder straps are breathable and lightweight, and a sternum strap helps fight shoulder fatigue. The 450D ripstop body and 600D molded EVA front panel make for an extremely lightweight & durable surf pack
  • WATERPROOF FABRIC: Made with waterproof, durable material that’s built to last. The wet compartment is fully welded and waterproof with a roll-and-click top closure. Hand wash only to keep your bag functional, clean and as good as new
  • EASY ORGANIZATION: Easily fits all of your travel necessities. Surf specific pockets store fins, sunblock, wax, and a large insulated side pocket will keep food and drink cold. Interior laptop sleeve or tech pocket designed for your devices

This wet/dry backpack sports a number of pockets and inserts.

You get a fleece-lined pocket for your sunglasses, a fin organizer pocket, an external pocket for ready access to sunscreen or wax, and even sleeves to accommodate a laptop and tablet with its 36L of capacity.

The molded front panel helps to protect your sensitive gear against bumps and jolts.

2. Dakine Cyclone II 36L Dry Pack 2020

Here’s another 36L surf backpack that could make a lot of sense for your all-purpose needs.

Dakine Cyclone Ii Dry Pack 36L - Cyclone Black, One Size

  • Adjustable sternum strap
  • A true leader in the world of bags, packs, and accessories, DaKine has a reputation for the best Surf Accessories in the biz. After celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2019, DaKine continues to pride itself on developing products for the top professionals in every board sport and building its reputation for innovation and quality for over a quarter of a century.

The Dakine Cyclone II 36L Dry Pack 2020 boasts the classic looks and lines of a regular backpack.

The current version of this dry backpack comes in two colors: “Cyclone Black” (sometimes listed simply as “Black”) and a light-green option called “Cyclone Arugam.”

The backpack is built to last, with durable construction and metal zippers; it also features breathable, ergonomic nylon shoulder straps to ensure comfort.

The soft front panel allows for considerable flexibility. As for accessibility, you get a pair of water-resistant resistant stash pockets, a mesh side pocket, and an internal pocket for your laptop.

3. DAKINE Cyclone Roll Top 32L Backpack

If the 36L DAKINE option seems like a little more backpack than you really need or want, take a look at the DAKINE Cyclone Roll Top 32L Backpack.

Dakine Cyclone Roll Top 32L - Cyclone Black, One Size

  • Waterproof welded construction with roll top closure

This lightweight backpack offers similarly sleek styling to its big brother, while also featuring superb water resistance thanks to its roll top design, coated Cordura Ripstop and waterproof welded construction.

It’s available in “Cyclone Black,” the light-green “Cyclone Arugam”, and a “Cyclone Camo” camouflage color scheme.

Even with its relatively minimal, affordable design, you get plenty of utility thanks to a roomy main compartment, a mesh side panel, and a water-resistant welded side pocket.

Whether you’re hitting the beach or roaring along the highway on your motorcycle, this backpack stands ready to help you enjoy your outing.

4. Skog Å Kust BackSåk Waterproof Floating Backpack with Exterior Zippered Pocket

The Skog Å Kust BackSåk Waterproof Floating Backpack with Exterior Zippered Pocket is a backpack for all seasons — and all activities.

Skog Å Kust BackSåk Waterproof Backpack | 35L Black

  • Rugged All-Weather Protection: BackSak is made from heavy duty 500-denier PVC to seal out the elements with watertight, welded seams and a roll-down top. Keeps your gear protected & dry in a variety of outdoor sports and activities.
  • Comfort & Convenience: Sternum clip & padded back support help relieve pressure on muscles. Thick, cushioned straps adjust for custom comfort. Handy D-rings at sides hold water bottles & other gear.
  • 2 Easy Ways To Close: Simply fold the roll-down the top at least 3 times, then click the top clip to create an instant handle. OR use the side clips & adjust for a snug, compressed fit – it’s main compartment is IPX-6 waterproof either way!
  • Zippered, Protective Pockets: Spacious interior pocket keeps electronics & other valuables separate from wet towels & swimsuits. Splash-proof outer pocket safely holds keys, IDs, more.
  • 25 & 35 Liter Sizes: Both our 25L and 35L sizes feature our sleek, simple design - no tacky slogans or garish logos. Available in a variety of colors and backed by our 100% satisfaction guarantee

According to its product description, the backpack is recommended “for Kayaking, Rafting, Boating, Swimming, Camping, Hiking, Beach, [and] Fishing.” It comes in two size options, 35L (measuring 19″ X 12.5″ X 6″) and 35L (measuring 16″ x 11.5″ x 6″).

You also have no fewer than 8 different color options to choose from: Black, DigiCamo, Grey, Mint, Navy Blue, Pink, Yellow and White.

While there isn’t a dedicated laptop sleeve inside this backpack, its 500 Denier Waterproof PVC body (complete with high-frequency welded seams) is superbly flexible, giving you lots of room for all of your gear.

The exterior sports a splash-proof pocket, mesh pockets, a key clip, and D-rings to hold your trusty water bottle. This backpack makes an especially smart choice if you’re planning on being out in low-light conditions, thanks to its reflective patch and zipper trim.

As you can see, you can get some amazing versatility, colorful good looks, and everyday practicality out of a good surf backpack. Take you time to peruse these options and decide which features are most important to you. Then place your order, wax your board, and get ready for the tide to roll in!

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The Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

Whether weekend road-tripping or jet-setting around the world, you’re going to need a pack to toss over your shoulder. Here are the best travel backpacks for every adventure.

Mallory Paige Testing the Cotopaxi Allpa Travel Backpack

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

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

Choosing a travel backpack can be a dizzying experience, and we’ve shaken down the best to sort through the static. Each pack has seen its time on the baggage carousel, hostel luggage cart, and we’ve even had a few go missing for the full experience. We fully pack and live out of these bags to test them, and in the end, we’re confident that the 14 packs collected here are the best travel backpacks available today. Check-in and check them out.

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

Editor’s Note: We updated our travel backpack guide on November 15, 2023, to include additional information on our testing, as well as ensure that our selection is still current.

  • Best Overall Travel Backpack: Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L
  • Best Budget Travel Backpack: Dakine Campus 33L Backpack
  • Best Carrying Travel Backpack: Osprey Farpoint & Fairview 40 Travel Packs
  • Best Organization in a Travel Backpack: Matador SEG45 Travel Pack
  • Best Shoulder Bag: Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L
  • Best Commuter-Style Travel Backpack: Arc’teryx Granville 25 Backpack
  • Best Personal Item Travel Pack: TimBuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dakine Campus 33L Backpack

  • Capacity 33 L
  • Weight 1 lb., 10.6 oz.
  • Dimensions 20.5" x 13" x 8"
  • Compartment access Zippered top access
  • Material Depending on print type, can be 600-denier recycled polyester, 420-denier recycled nylon, 630-denier recycled nylon, or 1,200-denier recycled polyester

The Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

  • Cheap price
  • Available in many different fabric prints
  • Unique insulated cooler pocket
  • Not many travel-specific features
  • Straps don’t pack away

Even at the regular price of $75, the Dakine Campus 33L Backpack is a great deal. And considering you can grab one on sale for $45, it’s a must-have budget travel backpack.

It has everything you need to keep your travels organized, without getting too big or complicated. It has a padded laptop sleeve, a fleece-lined top pocket to keep your sunglasses safe, and an organizer pocket perfect for pens, a phone, and easy-access essentials. We love pockets, and this backpack has plenty.

And if that weren’t enough, it also has an insulated cooler pocket to keep your snacks fresh on the go, plus double side pockets keep drinks handy. We found the straps comfortable during long travel days. Be sure to use the sternum strap when carrying a heavy load for the best fit.

While this bag does excellent at travel, it isn’t quite what the bag was designed for, and thus it’s missing a few travel niceties like a compression system or the ability to pack away the straps. We didn’t find that we missed them desperately, but it would have been nice to have had in a few instances. For similar-sized backpacks with more of a travel bend to them, look to the sleek Timbuk2 Never Check, or the uber-customizable Tom Bihn Synapse 25. But prepare to shell out some more for them.

If you’re looking for a sub-$100 backpack (under $60 during sales!) that does it all, then the Dakine Campus Backpack is for you. It comes in a variety of colors and is also available in a 25L capacity .

Osprey Farpoint & Fairview 40 Travel Packs

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

The Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Matador SEG45 Travel Pack

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

The Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read Review: Dresser in a Backpack: Matador SEG42 Review

Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L

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

The Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Arc’teryx Granville 25 Backpack

  • Capacity 25 L
  • Weight 1 lb., 14.5 oz.
  • Dimensions 22" x 12" x 9"
  • Compartment access Drawstring top-entry
  • Material N400r-AC² nylon ripstop

The Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

  • Tough and waterproof exterior fabric
  • White interior for easy viewing
  • Floating laptop sleeve
  • Not very much interior organization
  • Simple webbing waistbelt

Made for moving through the city over the concourse, the commute-ready Arc’teryx Granville 25 ($220) takes travel backpacks to the streets in a sleek and tough design that we couldn’t keep from grabbing every day.

Crafted from the same N400r-AC² nylon ripstop as Arc’teryx’s high-end climbing packs, the mountain DNA is strong in the Granville, with fully taped seams that make the pack highly weather-resistant. In our impromptu “rain” test, a garden hose fired directly at the pack wasn’t able to get a drop past the tough exterior.

On the front of the pack, a single water-resistant zippered pocket was practically made for your keys, and could accommodate a few other essentials for when you’re on the go. Tossing back the shaped lid, a single drawstring entry leads to the interior space, which is mainly one large pocket, with a few zippered and drop pockets to separate smaller items. If you’re looking for the same style pack, but with a bit more organization built-in, the Tom Bihn Synapse 25 divides up its space well.

The padded interior laptop sleeve will accommodate up to a 16” laptop, and is suspended within the main compartment in a way that leaves us feeling confident in slinging our computer across a shoulder. Compared to other more airline-focused travel packs, the Granville 25 has its feet more firmly planted on the ground, and excels at bus, bike, or foot travel.

Whether your commute is just across town or across the country, the Arc’teryx Granville 25 makes for a good-looking carry-all that’s bound to be around for a while.

Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack

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

The Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

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

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

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

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

The back panel of the Never Check is a plush ½ inch of comfortable foam, and combined with the equally padded shoulder straps made for a very nice carrying bag. The straps unfortunately do not stow away, but on a lower volume pack such as this, it’s a much less useable feature in our opinions.  And finally, one of our favorite features: the wide laptop sleeve. This 15” opening is generous enough to accommodate the larger laptops of today, and is suspended from the bottom of the backpack to ensure bumps don’t turn into bruises.

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

Matador GlobeRider45 Travel Pack

  • Dimensions 22" x 12.8" x 11"
  • Compartment access Zippered clamshell design
  • Material 420D UHMWPE-reinforced ripstop nylon, 100D Robic nylon mini-ripstop

The Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 40L

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

The Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cotopaxi Allpa 28L Travel Pack

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

The Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tom Bihn Synapse 25

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

The Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

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

Refined and clean-looking, the Tom Bihn Synapse 25 ($243) is a high-end travel backpack we just can’t stop staring at. It just looks that good. Made of burly textiles and zippers, this pack was built to stand the test of tough travel and come out shining on the other side.

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

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

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

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

Patagonia Black Hole 25L Backpack

  • Weight 1 lb., 6.9 oz.
  • Dimensions 22" x 10.5" x 5.5"
  • Material 300-denier recycled polyester ripstop with a TPU laminate

The Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

  • Heavy-duty outer fabric
  • Cheaper price
  • No hip belt

The Patagonia Black Hole Backpack ($149) is a rugged classic, and now one that is fully revamped with an eye toward sustainability.

The 300-denier ripstop nylon outer is newly 100% postconsumer recycled material, and has a novel recycled TPU laminate for extra durability — all coming together to make this pack 100% recycled material from the body to the lining and the straps. We’ve long been a fan of the entire Black Hole line , and that’s doubly true now that it’s made from recycled materials.

The side mesh pockets are great for water bottles. And the back laptop sleeve is well padded and will hold most 15″ laptops. The organizational pockets inside and on top fit all of your little essentials, making them easy to find. The signature Black Hole gear loops are also great for tying on extra gear or wet clothes that need drying.

One thing that the majority of our testers asked for with this pack was a hip belt, which it unfortunately lacks. Without it, the load can feel a bit unsettled on our backs, and a bit of stability would go a long way on this pack.

We’ve been using a Black Hole backpack for years now, and it still doesn’t show any signs of wear or tear. For durability, it’s one of the best travel backpacks you’ll find.

Mountain Hardwear Redeye 45 Travel Pack

  • Weight 3 lbs., 2.1 oz.
  • Dimensions 24" x 15" x 12"
  • Compartment access Back panel zippered clamshell design, additional top entry
  • Material 500-denier CORDURA nylon

The Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

  • Burly 500-denier CORDURA nylon construction
  • Front and rear grab handles make loading easy
  • Cylinder shape won’t be the most space-efficient
  • Strap storage isn’t the most compact

Fine-tuned and ready to be thrown around, the Mountain Hardwear Redeye 45 Travel Pack ($180) hit all the marks for what we’re looking for in a travel pack for long climbing excursions.

Styled after climbing packs and haul bags, the Redeye keeps a clean profile inside and out and provides access to the internal 45 liters of space via either a full back panel clamshell or an additional top entry. Grown onto the outside is a full-length panel concealing a number of mesh pockets as well as a single water bottle pocket opposite.

We broke in our Redeye with a quick alpine climb in Washington’s granite playground of Washington Pass, where it shouldered a load of climbing kit with aplomb. The rear clamshell design is ideal for fishing out bits of gear as you rack up, and the back panel provided enough cushion to avoid feeling any protruding cam lobes.

Not just a climbing pack, however, the Redeye comes with a number of smart travel features that makes splitting time a cinch. A 15-inch padded laptop sleeve will fit most computers on the market, and the suspension straps are fully stowable, although it wasn’t the most seamless execution we’ve seen.

You probably won’t want to haul it up your next off-width chimney, but a full day of travel in search of one is absolutely on the menu for the Redeye 45 .

Osprey Nebula 32 Daypack

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

The Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

Travel Backpack Comparison Chart

Peak Design Travel Pack 45L at SEATAC

How We Tested Travel Backpacks

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

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

Senior Editor Nick Belcaster has a zeal for international travel, and he leads up our current travel pack testing, logging almost 10,000 flying miles in the last year alone. From Iceland to Utah, Belcaster has carried these packs and lived out of them for weeks, relying on them to support back-to-back travel excursions. In testing, we looked for a number of features in our travel backpacks, including overall capacity, carry style, durability, and aesthetics. It’s important to think about how you’ll use your travel pack, and as such, every pack on our list is carry-on compliant for the worst-case scenario.

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

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

Osprey Farpoint Travel Pack in Iceland

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose a Travel Backpack

Travel backpack user profiles.

The International Jet-Setter: The term ‘One Bag Travel’ is no stranger to you, and you’ve just about got your life distilled down into 45 liters of space. If international travel is your bag, then a backpack that’s up to the task will be essential to see you through to further time zones. Efficiency will be the name of the game here, and going with a pack that is dang-near the carry-on maximums for international flights will mean you can make it through without checking a bag. Look for near to 45-liter packs with plenty of organization baked in, as well as a comfortable (and stashable) carry system.

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

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

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

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

For bumping around town, we’ve come to love the Arc’teryx Granville 25 , which not only lugs our remote office around with ease, but also looks pretty slick doing it. The drawstring opening here is a huge boon for quickly stashing a jacket, and the tough exterior fears no weather forecast. For a budget just-get-it-done choice, the Dakine Campus 33L will make it happen for less.

Peak Design Travel Backpack on the Back of a Traveller in Seattle International Airport Looking out on the Tarmac.

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

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

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

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

Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Backpack

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

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

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

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

Peak Design Travel Backpack Clamshell Access

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

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

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

Commuters will find drawstring entry bags the most appealing, and the Arc’teryx Granville 25 has become our dedicated laptop toter for everything from remote work stints at the coffee shop to jumping on a ferry for work.

Mountain Hardware Redeye Travel Backpack Clamshell Packing

Carrying Options

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

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

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

Patagonia MCL 45L Travel Backpack Carry Options

Pockets & Organization

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

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

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

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

Matador SEG30 Travel Backpack Storage Options

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

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

Tom Bihn Synapse 25 Travel Backpack

Space Efficiency & Carry-On Compliance

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

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

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

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

Peak Design Travel Pack at SEATAC

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

Budget-Minded Travel Packs

Travel backpacks, as a category, are generally a bit pricer than your average luggage, as they incorporate tough materials that can put up with extensive wear over the lifespan. Travel is tough on bags, so it’s unsurprising that even budget travel backpacks will cost you around $100-150. These packs often will incorporate more traditional architectures such as a zippered top access, as opposed to the more complicated (and spendy) full-zip clamshell designs. For example, the Dakine Campus ($75) is pretty much your average school bag.

Volumes, too, will be a bit limited in this price range — added material adds cost. The 32-liter Osprey Nebula ($140) is about the best price-to-volume ratio you can get, with the Patagonia Black Hole Backpack ($149) coming in behind it at 25 liters.

Mid-Range Travel Packs

Mid-range packs make up the bread and butter of travel packs, and can be had for around $150 to $200. These designs are often more of the full carry-on variety, and aim to capitalize on permitted volume as much as possible. The 45-liter Matador SEG45 ($200), Patagonia Black Hole MLC ($239), Mountain Hardwear Redeye ($180), 40-liter Osprey Farpoint/Fairview ($185), and Topo Designs Global Travel Bag ($229) all shoehorn in just about as much space as a friendly gate agent will let you get away with.

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

Premium Travel Packs

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

The Tom Bihn Synapse 25 ($243) is a bit of an outlier, as it commands a high dollar amount not for the extreme amount of space it offers or amount of features, but for being a hyper-customizable, hand-made bag that uses the nicest textiles available, as well as the best zippers, webbing, and foam in its design. If you’re a fan of the finest materials, this is your daily driver pack.

What Is One Bag Travel?

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

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

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

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

Peak Design Travel Pack in Denver

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Best Women’s Travel Pants of 2022

The Best Women’s Travel Pants of 2022

Active travel demands versatility from your clothing. To help you travel with ease and confidence, we scoured the latest styles to determine the best women’s travel pants for 2022.

The Best Men’s Travel Pants of 2024

The Best Men’s Travel Pants of 2024

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Pro Gear Tester Mallory Paige is always up for adventure. Whether motorcycle camping across North America (with her dog in a sidecar!), paddling whitewater in a tiny packraft, or traveling in a van she’s always ready to pivot and turn a challenge into an opportunity. When not busy obsessing about gear, she can be found building an off-grid homestead in the remote mountains of Colorado.

best surf travel backpack

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

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best surf travel backpack

How to pick the best travel backpack for you

Need lots of pockets for water bottles or tripods? Theft-deterrent zippers? A cushioned laptop compartment? No matter what kind of travel bag you need, we’ve got you covered. 

Whether you’re traveling overnight or for weeks at a time, you'll need a backpack that's functional, comfortable, and helps keep you organized.

We know there's no one backpack that will work for everyone, so we picked bags that will meet the needs of most types of travelers—whether you need a small option for the overhead of a plane, or lockable zippers for security.

Our best overall travel backpack is the Peak Design Travel Pack 45L , which ticks all the boxes for durability, versatility, and comfort, but also offers a thoughtful design, unique organizational features and high-quality, sustainably made materials.

Our picks for the best travel backpack

Best overall: peak design travel pack 45l.

best surf travel backpack

Buy it now: $300 at Backcountry

Why we like it:   The sleek-looking Peak Design Travel Pack 45L is our best overall travel backpack. It's expandable, carry-on compliant, and is bursting with innovative features.  

This backpack is functional—think gusseted side pockets for water bottles or tripods—and made with high-quality weatherproof materials and theft-deterrent zipper pulls. It’s durable and secure, and it’s obvious that every detail of this bag has been carefully thought through.  

There are smartly placed pockets, and the padded harness system tucks beneath magnetic flaps for duffel-style carry. The spacious main cavity is accessible from the front, rear and both sides, and the extensively padded bag has 16-inch laptop and tablet sleeves.

Keep in mind:   At 4.5 pounds, it’s not light, and smaller-framed travelers may find it cumbersome to carry. The harness isn’t adjustable, so the torso length is one-size-fits-all.

Product details:   Sizes available: 30L, 45L | Materials:   Recycled nylon and polyester | Frame type: Frameless | Number of external pockets: 8

The best with laptop compartment: Thule Aion 40L

best surf travel backpack

Buy it now: $200 at Backcountry

Why we like it:   The Thule Aion 40L is our best backpack with a laptop compartment.   It’s a carry-on travel backpack that accommodates a 16-inch laptop while leaving plenty of room for other gear.  

Its roomy side-access laptop compartment contains cushioned laptop and tablet sleeves. There’s a compartment for accessories and a rollaway bag for damp or dirty items in the main compartment, which minimizes the chances of wet belongings damaging tech.  

There are breathable, padded shoulder straps and a back panel, plus a sternum strap to keep things secure. A robust side handle facilitates duffel-style carry, and there’s a pass-through for a rolling suitcase attachment.

Keep in mind:   There’s no weight-bearing hip belt, and the wax-coated canvas creates a weathered look that might not appeal to everyone.

Product details:   Sizes available: 28L, 40L | Materials: Recycled polyester | Frame type: Frameless | Number of external pockets: 2

The best small travel backpack: Patagonia Atom 20L Tote Pack

best surf travel backpack

Buy it now: $89 at Patagonia

Why we like it:   Our pick for the best small travel backpack is the Patagonia Atom 20L Tote Pack, a versatile, lightweight bag that stows under airplane seats. This backpack has a large main compartment, which houses a thickly padded removable 13-inch laptop sleeve and a hydration bladder pass-through for hikers.  

External features include a bike light loop, attachment points for the removable sternum strap and other essentials, and a zippered front compartment that occupies the full length of the bag.  

The well-padded, breathable harness system makes the Atom a comfortable carry in backpack mode, but it can also be transported tote-style using its sturdy handles.  

Keep in mind:   The two compartments lack organizational features, and the laptop sleeve compromises internal space. The backpack fits a 17-inch torso length, so it may not work for taller travelers.

Product details:   Sizes available: 20L | Materials: Fairly traded recycled polyester and nylon | Frame type: Frameless | Number of external pockets: 3

The best anti-theft backpack: Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP35 Anti Theft Travel Backpack  

best surf travel backpack

Buy it now: $270 at Amazon

Why we like it:   The Pacsafe’s practical, versatile Venturesafe EXP35 Anti Theft Travel Backpack is our pick for the best anti-theft backpack. It’s made with recycled slash-resistant material and lockable, puncture-resistant, self-locking zippers.  

This pick has an RFID-blocking pocket to keep credit card information safe and a hidden lockable 16-inch laptop compartment. The comfortable, breathable harness system has cut-resistant straps that can be used to secure the bag to fixed objects.  

Keep in mind:   The anti-theft features hamper quick access, and the bag’s solid construction and numerous compartments make it feel heftier than it is.

Product details:   Sizes available: 35L | Materials: Recycled polyester | Frame type: Frameless | Number of external pockets: 3

The best rolling backpack: Osprey Farpoint / Fairview 36 Wheeled Travel Pack

best surf travel backpack

Buy it now:   $300 at Osprey ( Farpoint and Fairview )

Why we like it:   The Osprey Farpoint/Fairview 36 Wheeled Travel Pack* is our pick for best rolling backpack. It’s comfortable in backpack mode, has a stamina-saving rolling mode, and is straightforward to switch between the two.  

This bag features padded shoulder straps and hip belt, mesh back panel and torso adjustment to provide a comfortable backpack-style carry. If your back needs a break, engage the harness stowaway system, extend the single tube ergonomic handle and let the rugged, oversized wheels do the work.  

Organizational features include a zippered top pocket for quick-access items and a 15-inch laptop compartment; the main cavity facilitates easy packing with its compression straps and suitcase-style opening.  

*The bags’ features are identical; however, the Fairview’s fit is tailored specifically to women.

Keep in mind:   It’s a heavy bag, and the interior frame and stowed rolling handle reduce capacity in the main compartment.  

Product details:   Sizes available: 36L, 65L | Materials: bluesign® approved recycled nylon | Frame type: 4 mm LightWire peripheral frame | Number of external pockets: 4

The best carry-on backpack: Cotopaxi Allpa 35l Travel Pack

best surf travel backpack

Buy it now:   $200 at REI

Why we like it:   The Allpa 35L Travel Pack from Cotopaxi is our best carry-on backpack—a durable, easily stowable option with thoughtful organizational features and anti-theft zippers.

The no-nonsense, adjustable harness system tucks away neatly into a slotted back panel during transit, while four reinforced grab handles make pulling the backpack out of an overhead bin child’s play.The bag opens suitcase-style for efficient packing, but a side zipper also provides on-the-go access.  

High-visibility backing in the front compartment makes searching for small items less challenging, and there’s convenient side access to the padded 15-inch laptop sleeve, which has a false bottom to protect devices if dropped. There’s a rainfly included, should you arrive at your destination to unexpected wet weather.

Keep in mind:   Flimsy and lacking structure, it doesn’t hold its shape unless it is full. The lack of an external water bottle pocket may be a deal-breaker for some.

Product details:   Sizes available: 28L, 35L, 42L | Materials:   Recycled polyester and nylon | Frame type: Frameless | Number of external pockets: 2

The most versatile backpack: Gregory Rhune 25 Pack

best surf travel backpack

Buy it now:   $130 at REI

Why we like it:   Our pick for the most versatile travel backpack is the Gregory Rhune 25 Pack, a water-resistant travel backpack with great functionality and a surprising amount of space.  

Thanks to its structured base, rounded body, and organizational compartments, more fits into this 25L bag than you’d expect. Padded internal sleeves fit a 15-inch laptop and tablet/folio, and pockets outside include a handy swing-around access stash pocket.  

With a moisture-wicking padded back panel, removable sternum strap and contoured shoulder straps, this bag is designed to carry weight comfortably: a great all-rounder whether you’re a hiker, digital nomad, or urban sightseer.

Keep in mind:   Top-opening access makes it tricky to locate items at the base. Shoulder straps may feel bulky to smaller travelers.

Product details:   Sizes available:   20L, 22L, 25L | Materials: Recycled polyester and nylon | Frame type:   Frameless | Number of external pockets: 4

The best budget backpack: tomtoc Navigator-T66 Travel Laptop Backpack 40L

best surf travel backpack

Buy it now:   $82 at Amazon

Why we like it:   The Navigator-T66 Travel Laptop Backpack 40L is our pick for the best budget travel backpack. It’s made with quality materials and loaded with organizational features despite its affordable price tag.  

The sturdy, water-resistant, and easy-to-pack clamshell design, plus the multi-functional pockets and attachment points, mean efficient organization. This backpack has a TSA-friendly 17-inch laptop compartment, which will save time at airport security.  

The cushioned harness means it’s comfortable to wear, and top and side handles and a pass-through make it easy to grab or attach to a wheeled suitcase.  

Keep in mind:   It’s so heavily padded that packing space feels compromised. There’s no load-bearing hip belt.

Product details:   Sizes available:   40L | Materials:   Recycled PET bottles | Frame type:   Frameless | Number of external pockets:   4

Our review process

I referred to brand product descriptions, third-party reviews, competitor articles, Reddit discussion boards, watched an excessive number of review videos, and evaluated my findings with my own knowledge and experience, considering the following:

Material and quality: Durability of materials and hardware is critical for a bag that will be repeatedly thrown into overhead bins and exposed to bad weather.

Versatility: I looked for bags that could be carried duffel-style, fastened to a rolling suitcase or pulled-on wheels and were capable of protecting tech equipment, and keeping belongings dry on hikes.

Storage and protection: I looked for features such as stowable harness systems for ease of storage, and hidden pockets and anti-theft zippers for peace of mind.

Comfort: Weight-bearing, cushioned hip belts, secure sternum straps and adjustable padded shoulder straps all maximize carry comfort.

Organization: Positioning and accessibility of pockets, compartments and attachment points are a matter of personal preference, but they should maximize functionality.

Sustainability: I prioritized bags made with recycled materials and brands actively addressing their social, ethical and environmental impact.

What to know about travel backpacks

Here are a few things to consider when buying a travel backpack:

The most common materials used for travel backpacks are nylon and polyester (both increasingly recycled), which can be treated to enhance durability and water resistance.

The size of a travel backpack is measured in liters, with external pockets included. How much it actually fits depends on shape, material thickness, flexibility, and padding.

Backpacks with heavy external frames offer structure and support. Internal frames hold bags closer to the body, offering more stability but less ventilation.

Number of external pockets

External compartments such as mesh water bottle holders and quick-grab pockets are great for organization.

Carry-on weight allowances vary between airlines, so a lightweight bag optimizes what you can pack.

Look for high-quality harnesses with cushioned straps, breathable back panels, secure sternum straps, and a weight-bearing hip belt if required.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best backpack to take on a plane.

Choose a backpack that fits in an overhead bin and has a robust handle for retrieving it. Quick-access external pockets and efficient internal organization enable quick access to belongings; lockable zippers provide security.

Is a travel backpack a carry-on?

As long as it complies with your airline’s regulations.

What is a good size backpack to travel with?

The length and purpose of your trip will determine the size of the bag you need. Generally speaking, a 25-30 liter backpack should suffice for weekend trips, and 30-45 liters allow a good amount of space for longer travel. For most airlines, backpacks up to 45 liters should be carry-on compliant.

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  • PRODUCT ROUNDUP
  • TRAVEL BACKPACKS
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Best Surf Backpacks

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Having a place for all your stuff both on and off the waves makes surfing so much easier, but which backpack should you choose?

There are so many options, and long gone are the days of the $15 Kmart blue light special backpack with three colors and a leather bottom. 

With easily at least a hundred bucks on the line which one should you choose? 

What do you need in a bag to make sure you get the most for your investment?  

Fortunately, we are here to help!  

We’ll call out some key areas to consider, and answer a few of your most pressing questions. 

Then, we’ve researched and reviewed the best surf backpacks and recommend our favorites, so you don’t have to worry about missing out on the right backpack for you!

Our Favorite Picks

Dakine Cyclone II Dry Pack

#1 Dakine Cyclone II Dry Pack 36L

  • True Waterproof large size backpack
  • Integrated board carrier
  • Purge valve for clearing wet bag

Rip Curl Men's F-Light Surf Molded Backpack

#2 Rip Curl Men's F-Light Surf Molded Backpack

  • Well-designed separate wet and dry compartments
  • Slightly smaller size for less bulky carry
  • Specific pockets for fins, wax, and an insulated pocket for your drinks

DAKINE Cyclone Roll Top

#3 Dakine Cyclone Roll Top 32L

  • Ultimate Waterproof construction
  • Small stash pocket for keys, phones, and cards
  • Extremely durable

#1 Best Overall: Dakine Cyclone II Dry Pack 36L

The Dakine Cyclone II is our top pick thanks to its superior waterproofing, rugged materials, large size, and thoughtful design extras made just for surfers.

The outside pockets are a good size for storing keys, snacks, sunscreen and other quick grab items.  The one feature that sets this backpack apart is the integrated board carry system, which is a heavy-duty hooking system on the side of the bag that can attach to a carry handle on any surf bag.

The two-way purge valve is also extremely useful when compacting the bag down or clearing out dampness after the bag has been packed.

The coated zippers are also easy to close and meant to last through the saltiest conditions and keep on zipping.  Overall, this rough, rugged, fully waterproof bag will protect your stuff in any condition, and that is why it is our top pick!

The Rip Curl F-Light Surf Molded Backpack is a great pick for a wet/dry bag, combining all of the perks you want in an outdoor backpack with the ability to separate your wet gear from your dry stuff and the best organizational pockets of our top picks.

It has external wax and sunscreen pocket, an insulated cooler pocket, and a dedicated pocket for your fins. The fleece lined tech and sunglasses pocket helps keep your expensive electronics and glasses scratch free. 

The large main compartment also has a laptop sleeve while and is big enough for a full change of clothes and then some. The eva molded front panel is a great protective choice that provides some impact cushioning.

The durable polyester materials should also provide years of quality use. The Rip Curl is our top pick for a wet dry bag and we think you can’t go wrong if you choose it!

#3 DAKINE Cyclone Roll Top 32L

The Dakine Cyclone Roll Top 32L surf backpack is the little brother of our top pick. 

It is built of the same materials and boasts the same waterproof welded construction.  

However, it comes in at a little more than half the cost because it removes the two outside pockets, the carry hook, and the purge valve.  

It is also smaller, so easier to fit if you are a bit smaller person.

If you don’t want to go all in on the 36L Cyclone II, this is a great option that will give you great bang for your buck!

#4 YETI Panga

YETI Panga

The Yeti Pango isn’t a true surf backpack, but we include it because it is the cadillac of waterproof duffel bags. 

The unique hydrolok zippering system makes it airtight when the zipper is in the u-dock at the end of the bag.  

The thick nylon is laminated with TPU to create a super tough construction that is so waterproof you can dunk the bag while the insides remain dry and so durable it just might outlive all of us.  

The straps and other metal pieces are designed and built to last just as long.

We like that the straps can be used for either a side carry or a backpack carry.  

This bag is more than twice as expensive as any other bag on our list, and it doesn’t have many pockets for organization, but it is big, and it will keep everything dry no matter where you take it. 

BackSåk

The BackSak is the most economical truly waterproof bag in our top picks. 

It has the same roll top construction as our other waterproof models and boasts the same waterproof ratings at a lower price point, and we like that it comes in so many colors.  

We like the feel of the molded foam but be careful because foam can absorb water.  In a downpour or if immersed, the back panel can become squishy!  

It won’t affect your stuff inside the bag that will stay nice and dry, but your back might get a little moist!

Although the BackSak is a pretty simple with only one true compartment, but it is still a very utilitarian backpack because its internal organizing pockets are helpful, and the quick grab front pocket gives easy access when you need it.  

If you are on a tighter budget, the BackSak is a great option.   

#6 Dakine Patrol Backpack 32L

Dakine Patrol Backpack

The Dakin Patrol Backpack is more of an everyday backpack than a true surf backpack because it lacks any waterproofing or wet/dry capabilities. 

However, it has more of the organizational perks you would expect from an everyday backpack like fleece lined sunglasses case, and a padded laptop sleeve.

The interior power cord storage loops are especially clever.  

We also like the mesh pockets on each side so you can have a water bottle on one side and still drop your keys on the other quickly.  

At 32 liters, this is also a fairly large bag, so can still fit all your surf stuff in it easily.  

If you are looking for a bag that is durable and rugged, but don’t necessarily feel like you need a dedicated/waterproof surf bag this is another great pick. 

#7 The North Face Borealis

The North Face Borealis Backpack

The North Face Borealis is a classic everyday backpack that has been around for years in one version or another. 

It is versatile and durable; made of top of the line Cordura ripstop material makes it extremely rugged.  Although it isn’t waterproof, it does provide some water resistance.

Coming in at 29 liters, it is also slightly smaller if you don’t want a bigger bag.  

We also like that it has both a laptop and a tablet sleeve, though in different compartments.  

Although you can get less expensive outdoor leaning type backpacks, we really like the Borealis because of the well-shaped and constructed shoulder straps, which provide plenty of comfort no matter how full the bag.  

We also like the lumbar cushioning/support, which will help you carry this bag all day long!

   

Criteria to Consider When Buying

Surf trip vs. day trip.

Surf Trip vs. Day Trip is a good problem to have!  If you are just going for a day trip, then a smaller bag should get you what you need easily.  The longer your trip it would make sense that the more space you will need for multiples of things like rash guards, wetsuits, or after surf changes of clothes.  A little more on the waterproof side is also desirable for a long trip as you will be storing things like fins and leashes for longer time periods before you can clean them off and let them air out. 

How Waterproof You Need Your Backpack to Be (or not to be?)

Surfers can argue until they are blue in the face on whether or not a backpack needs to be truly waterproof, but it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the weather at the spot where you surf most.  Paddling out in the Pacific Northwest or maybe off the coast of Scotland?  You’ll probably see some rain or at least some cold morning dew, so a truly waterproof bag could be for you.  Stopping off at a beach in SoCal on your way to work?  You probably only need a wet/dry bag so your wetsuit doesn’t get your backseat all wet for the rest of the day.  Walking four blocks from your house somewhere in Hawaii to the break?  You probably only need the most basic water resistance if any at all.  Thinking of your terrain and your preference for how you want to use your bag should give a good idea of whether or not you need a true waterproof bag.  If you are still stuck, we recommend erring on the side of more waterproof because you can’t go wrong with a little more protection. 

We’ve given this advice and we’ll give it again, only buy something within your means.  Stick to a budget! All but one of the bags we recommend can be had for a hundred bucks plus or minus $50.  There are plenty of options in this range that will work for almost everyone.  You can definitely get more expensive bags, and the closer you get to a true travel bag the more you will spend.  Keep in mind that truly waterproof bags will tend to be a little more expensive to pay for all the seam welds/tape and waterproof materials, but not outrageously more expensive.   You’ll need to balance size, waterproofing, and brand names to find a comfortable price point for you. 

Shoulder Straps

Because there is the possibility that you will load up all you can into these backpacks, it is important to look at the shoulder straps.  A heavy load digging in to your scapula is no fun.  Molded and formed shoulder straps are best, and we tend to like some venting as well to either cool us down, or to let the rain dry out after we’ve been soaked.

Size matters, but what matters most for the fit of backpack is the size of your trunk or torso.  A good fit on your back will make all the difference.  Here is a good look on what to measure.  The next thing to consider is how much you want to carry.  Here is a good explanation of what can fit in each size backpack, and although it is for hiking it is illustrative of what you can fit in a certain size bag.  So, look at what you would typically want to keep in your surf backpack and decide what you think you need.  We generally recommend 25-30ish liters as big enough to fit a wetsuit and booties with some space to spare for extra clothes as well as your wax/leash/accessories. 

​ ​​​​Zippers

Surfing still usually requires an ocean (though not always!) so there is an element of saltwater inherent in the sport most of the time.  Saltwater can wreak havoc on metal zippers, and we have seen a ton of zippers rusted together ruining an otherwise perfectly good backpack.  Leaving a zipper close and wet for long periods is a recipe for disaster! Water resistant or stainless-steel zippers can help mitigate this problem.  You can also lightly oil the zippers with WD40 every so often to keep them working well for a very long time.

Here is a fantastic guide to all the different types of backpack materials.  More durable and higher denier fabrics are better for surf backpacks so they can stand up to fins, sand, parking lots and all the beatings a surf backpack will take over its lifetime. Polyester and Nylon combinations dominate the materials used in our top picks, and both work great and can be used in different weights and waterproof characteristics by the designers to give you a ton of options.  

“Mens” vs. “Womens” Backpacks: Does It Matter?

For some backpacks, the men’s vs. women’s difference simply comes down to color, so pic whichever color floats your board.  Some of the more technical bag companies have made some tweaks to the design of the bag, like slimmer  or tapered shoulder straps, less width at the top of the bag, adjustment of the placement of the cross chest strap, or different padding in places to better fit the female form.  These tweaks are great and help but are definitely subtle in most cases.  More importantly than men’s vs. women’s is the actual size of the bag.  You’ll definitely want to balance the size of bag based on the stuff you want to carry vs. size of your body so you don’t get thrown off balance trekking to the waves!

Surf Industry Brand vs. General Outdoor Brand: Does It Matter?

A good backpack is a good backpack, no matter who makes it, so we’ve recommended both types in our top 7.  Surf industry backpacks will usually have thoughtful details for the surfer, like a dedicated wax pocket or a dedicated fin pocket to help keep you organized and your stuff safe from harm.  However, you don’t have to have those things.  General outdoor backpacks may have other things you’d want if you aren’t going to use your backpack just for surfing, like laptop sleeves or cord management channels.  If you are able to have a bag dedicated solely to surfing, we’d recommend a surf company, but with so many great options in our top picks you really can’t go wrong. 

Waterproof vs Dry Backpacks

A truly waterproof backpack generally means the whole backpack is waterproof.  Nothing gets in and nothing gets out starting at the outer shell of the backpack.  Rain, ocean spray, your shower, nothing gets through, so it is good in all weather.  Wet/Dry packs generally have one section that is for wetsuits/swim trunks, anything that is obviously wet.  The rest of the bag is just like a regular backpack with other organizational pockets for the rest of your gear.  Wet bags generally keep the dampness in, while the rest of the backpack may be water resistant but isn’t truly designed to keep the elements out.  We like the versatility of wet/dry backpacks, but certainly see the need for true waterproof in gnarly situations.​

How Waterproof You Need Your Backpack to Be

Do I Really Need A Surf Backpack to Surf?

No, you don’t really need a surf backpack to surf.  The only things you really need to surf are a board and some waves (although we recommend some swim trunks because of chafing…) That being said, a surf backpack is very helpful for a couple of reasons.  The first is sand.  Most surfing requires crossing at least some sand to get to the waves, and that stuff gets everywhere.  A good surf backpack will help you minimize the sand issue on everything from your phone to your wetsuit (which are two things that really don’t like sand.  Surf backpacks are also super helpful in keeping your stuff organized and stored well both while you are surfing and between sessions.  You’ll always know where your wax can be found, and even have a handy place to store your leash.  You’ll be able to dash to the beach the moment you hear the surf report if your gear is already packed and ready to go instead of searching around the house for your stuff, or worse yet showing up leashless at the beach and having to drive home instead of paddling out. 

Why a roll top? 

A roll top is not a required feature for a surf backpack, but it certainly is a handy one.  The roll top helps eliminate the strain on a zipper seam as well as making it impossible for a bag to leak from the zippered top.  A roll top uses the natural folds or rolls to keep whatever is in the bag in and whatever is outside the bag out without having to rely on flaps, tape, or seams around a zipper.  It’s the oldest and easiest solution holes around seams from sewing them into place, and most bag provide two ways to close the bag so you can create an extra handle by clipping across the top.  Your choice ultimately comes down to preference, but we really like roll top bags. 

What is splash proof?

Many of our top picks have a single outer pocket for quick access to keys/wallets etc.  Most of these are rated as “splash proof”. This just means that the pocket doesn’t have a fully welded or sealed seam around the zipper, and that the zipper isn’t designed as waterproof.  It should keep keys and wallets dry in a light rain or splatterings from a wet board or wetsuit, but we don’t recommend fully immersing the bag with anything in these pockets, especially electronics. 

What about Hydration?

Great question!  Always stay hydrated (and wear sunscreen!). None of our truly waterproof bags have an opening for a hydration sleeve with straw tube because that would be a prime place for water to sneak in.  We prefer the simple mesh side pocket where we can stick any kind of a metal water bottle to make sure we keep plastics out of our oceans!

Final Verdict - Which Should I Buy?

With so many choices available in backpacks it is hard to narrow it down. Our top picks tend towards waterproof, durable, and big enough to carry whatever you need.

We chose the Dakine Cyclone II Drypack as our top pick because it offers the best combination of waterproofing, durable materials, and clever extras like the board carrier and purge valve.

We figure you can use a waterproof bag as a regular bag, but it is really hard to use a non-waterproof bag when you need to keep things dry!

The outside pockets also offer the best organization of any of our truly waterproof bags.  For our money, the Dakine Cyclone II Drypack is the best pick of the bunch!

OUR #1 PICK - Dakine Cyclone II Dry Pack 36L

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Ian Lindsey

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Author:  Ian Lindsey

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Top 10 Best Beach Backpacks | Reviews (Outlander)

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There are various essential items that you must pack on your beach trip with your friends and family and what you need is to have the best beach backpack that can secure your belongings. Beach backpacks are ideal to have since they will let you easily travel around without any hassle, and you can store more items on this type of bag.

Having a backpack will also keep both of your hands-free while exploring the beach so you can have a full experience without the hassle of constantly fixing its straps compared with shoulder bags. Listed on this review is the best beach backpack products that you can use for your summer trip that will help you have a memorable beach experience with your loved ones.

Table of Contents

Top 10 Best Beach Backpack Reviewed

  • Ultra Lightweight Travel Outdoor Backpack by Outlander – Best Overall
  • Deluxe Ventilator Unisex Mesh Equipment Bag by Speedo- Best Value
  • Lightweight Backpack with Cooler by Seehonor – Editor’s Choice
  • Mesh Pack Backpack by Jansport
  • Lightweight Travel Backpack by Roam
  • Drawstring Backpack String Bag by Wandf
  • Rainproof Lightweight Backpack by Naturehike
  • Big Mesh Backpack by Timeoy
  • Drawstring Backpack by Wandf
  • Drawstring Swim Bag by Zooron

#1. Ultra Lightweight Travel Outdoor Backpack by Outlander – Best Overall

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Specifications:

  • Material: Nylon
  • Length: 6.2 inches
  • Width: 5.6 inches
  • Height: 2.8 inches
  • Weight: 7 ounces
  • Colors Available: Black, Dark Blue, Dark Red, and 8 others

The Ultra Lightweight Travel Outdoor Backpack made by Outlander can provide you a minimalist style that comes in different color designs that are surely worth your money. This beach backpack comes in two sizes, one with 20 L, while the other has a 33 L for its weight capacity. This beach backpack has rip-proof and water-resistant features with its nylon fabric material to protect your items that can be useful during your trip.  

This product has a large room for its main storage so you can keep all your clothing that you will need for your beach trip while you’re out under the sun. It also provides multiple compartments: two on its front zipper and one on the bag’s internal room, so you can easily store and organize all your beach accessories. This beach backpack has a breathable mesh shoulder strap to improve comfort while wearing it, and it can be transformed into a smaller size so you can easily keep it when it is not in use. 

#2. Deluxe Ventilator Unisex Mesh Equipment Bag by Speedo – Best Value

  • Material: 100% polyester
  • Capacity of Bag: 33 L
  • Type of Closure: Drawstring
  • Weight: 11.2 ounces
  • Colors Available: Frost Grey, Camo Green, Deep Coral and 14 others

Speedo is a trustworthy brand for providing quality swimwear and accessories such as its beach backpack, the Deluxe Ventilator Unisex Mesh Equipment Bag. Speedo provides you with a wide variety of choices regarding its color styles made from 100% polyester material. This product is a quick-dry beach backpack that features a compartment with mesh construction to help the airflow keep your wet clothes.   

You can keep all your essential items such as towels, swimsuits, and snorkeling gear, and other accessories on this beach backpack product that you can easily carry wherever you go. It has a drawstring closure that can efficiently hold your belongings, especially the large ones. It also has a shoulder strap feature for additional comfort and better convenience while traveling.   

#3. Lightweight Backpack with Cooler by Seehonor – Editor’s Choice

  • Length: 13 inches
  • Width: 7.9 inches
  • Height: 17.7 inches
  • Weight: 1.74 pounds
  • Colors Available: Black, Blue, Camouflage, and Grey

If you want to have a picnic beside the shore and eat the foods that you have prepared at home, the Lightweight Backpack with Cooler made by Seehonor is a good choice for you to have. This bag can help retain the temperature of your food and beverage for a few hours, whether it is hot or cold, so you can still eat it at its best quality wherever you go. This product also has a waterproof feature to keep the food inside protected at all times.

This backpack is made from a nylon fabric material that can handle heavy-duty activities with its scratch-proof feature to improve its durability and extend its life use. You can also keep your other essential items on this beach backpacks such as your smartphones, wallet on its two front pocket zippers, and it also has a two-side holder for a bottle or umbrella. It also has one extra insulated zipper compartment on its lid for additional storage.    

#4. Mesh Pack Backpack by Jansport

  • Length: 17 inches
  • Width: 13.80 inches
  • Height: 6.50 inches
  • Length of Shoulder Drop: 17 inches 
  • Colors Available: Black, Agave Zebra, Geo Flux, and seven others

One of the famous backpack brands on this list is Jansport’s Mesh Pack Backpack, specifically made for your beach outings. This backpack has a transparent mesh style design, so you can easily grab your beach accessories in no time without experiencing the struggle of finding it since everything is in your line of sight. This product has a total weight capacity of 2,000 cubic inches, so you can bring everything that you need for your trip.

This beach backpack has a large main compartment where you can keep your large items such as clothes and towels. It also has two smaller compartments available, one on its front and the other as an internal hanging pocket. This product is made from 100% polyester mesh for better breathability, especially if you have wet clothes inside, and it comes in ten color design varieties that you can choose from.     

#5. Lightweight Travel Backpack by Roam

  • Material: Ripstop Nylon
  • Length: 17 inches 
  • Width: 10 inches
  • Height: 9 inches
  • Weight: 11 ounces
  • Colors Available: Burnt Orange, Aqua, Neon Yellow, and 11 others

A Roam’s product, the Lightweight Travel Backpack, is a type of bag you can use in different travel adventures and even for your day-to-day-to-day backpack use. This backpack is lightweight to use, so you can add every item you need for your trip since it has a 25 L for its storage capacity. It has a laptop sleeve, and you can keep your phone, passport, and camera on its multiple front zipper pockets so you can safely store all the essential gadgets you need during your trip. 

This beach backpack product has a bartrack type of stitching to enhance its durability, and it also has a water-resistant feature to make sure that your things are protected at all times. This backpack’s straps are made from adjustable mesh material for breathable and comfortable wear and help prevent neck pain. You can easily store this backpack when it is not in use by folding it into a compact eight by eight smaller size.      

#6. Drawstring Backpack String Bag by Wandf

  • Length: 11.42 inches
  • Width: 8.66 inches
  • Height: 1.18 inches
  • Weight: 11.64 ounces
  • Colors Available: Blue Leaf, Light Green, Black Orange, and 17 others

If you want a beach backpack brand that can provide you several color styles, Wandf is the right one for you. Wanda’s product model called the Drawstring Backpack String Bag has a total of 20 color designs available, so you can pick the style that will best fit you. This bag has a drawstring closure, and it has a main compartment where you can keep your towel, clothes, shoes, and all your essential things during your beach outing. 

It also has three inner pockets, one hidden pocket at the back of the bag, and one on its front where you can keep smaller items such as your keys, wallet, smartphone, etc. This product has wide shoulder straps that can be adjusted according to your size for better comfort while using it, so you don’t have to worry about its low or high positioning on your back. This beach backpack also has wear and water-resistant feature to keep your things dry and protected and keep the bag’s quality.   

#7. Rainproof Lightweight Backpack by Naturehike

  • Material: 30D Nylon
  • Length: 18.9 inches
  • Width: 10.2 inches
  • Height: 7.5 inches
  • Weight: .26 pounds
  • Colors Available: Grey and Indigo

The Rainproof Lightweight Backpack product by Naturehike comes in two sizes: a smaller size, an 18 L weight capacity, and a bigger size with 25 L weight capacity. This backpack is made from a nylon material to make it lightweight and for it to have a waterproof feature to keep the water out at all times, even if it rains. This bag also has an attached carry bag feature, so you have an option on how you want to handle it or if the backpack straps were torn.

This beach backpack has several compartments to offer: one main room for your large things, an inner pocket where you can keep your important belongings. It also has two side mesh pockets that are made for keeping your travel book guide, bottle, or umbrella, and an outer pocket for the things that you always need and must quickly access at all times. This backpack’s color and design are made to be used by both genders for your travel, outdoor activities, or just for daypack purposes.    

#8. Big Mesh Backpack by Timeoy

  • Material: Nylon 
  • Length: 11.8 inches
  • Width: 8.8 inches
  • Weight: 3.84 ounces
  • Weight Capacity: 80 lbs. 

Time has been providing bags for outdoor activities since 2015, and one of its products is the Big Mesh Backpack that you can use as your beach bag for your summer outing. This beach backpack is made from a nylon fabric material with a cross-stitching construction to improve its durability. This mesh backpack has a drawstring closure, so you can easily keep large swimming items and accessories without any problem. 

This product has several mesh zippers pockets both inside and outside of the bag, so you can easily organize your essential items according to their size and use. This beach backpack has a mesh fabric construction to quickly dry out the bag and improve its breathability, which is important, especially if you are carrying wet clothes. It also has adjustable straps to set it according to your size, and this bag can be used for different purposes like a mountaineering bag, gym bag, or a beach bag. 

#9. Drawstring Backpack by Wandf

  • Length: 19 inches
  • Width: 19 inches
  • Colors Available: Grey Blue 

Another Wandf product is the Drawstring Backpack that can provide you a chic style and modern look. This bag has a drawstring closure that provides you various compartments and pockets to organize, arrange, and carry all the essential things you need. This product has sturdy and wide shoulder straps adjusted to your size for better comfort while using the backpack. 

This beach backpack product is made from a nylon fabric material that can prevent torn or scratches, and it has a water-resistant feature to protect all your things inside the bag. You can use this backpack for different activities such as camping, sports, travel, and beach outings to help carry all your essential items while keeping yourself in style. Wanda provides its customers a 100% money back in one year as a warranty if you bought a defective product.    

#10. Drawstring Swim Bag by Zooron

  • Length: 14.17 inches
  • Width: 7.8 inches
  • Height: 1.42 inches
  • Colors Available: Black, Gray, Blue, and Red

Zooron’s Drawstring Swim Bag can provide you a useful and practical product that can help you with your needs, especially for your beach outing with your friends and family. This beach backpack’s main compartment is divided into two sections: one made for wet clothes and dry ones. This compartment can help properly organize your things and to prevent your dry clothes from getting wet.

This beach backpack also has a bottom compartment that can be used in keeping your shoes or slippers that will be useful during your stay on the beach. This product also has a water-resistant feature to keep your things protected at all times. You can use this Zooron beach backpack for different outdoor activities.     

The best beach backpack that this review recommends is the Ultra Lightweight Travel Outdoor Backpack made by Outlander. Out of the ten beach backpacks listed in this review, this product has the best quality to offer you that you can use for your beach trip. This product has a waterproof feature to keep all your things dry and protected at all times. You can also organize your things properly with its multiple compartment feature to offer. It also provides several color designs that you can choose from to have the style you prefer. 

Best of Beach Backpack Brands

After choosing the best beach backpack for your trip, the next thing that you must do is to prepare all the essential items and other accessories that you need to bring during your outing. Before doing that, here are some factors that you need to consider before packing your things to have an efficient and complete summer kit.    

Number of Days You Intend to Stay at the Beach

The period you will spend at the beach is an essential factor you must consider before packing your stuff. It will determine how many clothes you must bring and the toiletries that come with you, especially if the place that you will stay in does not provide one. You can let yourself be excited about your trip, but you must keep in mind all the things you must pack during your vacation. Ask yourself if you will spend a day or two on the beach? Or will you stay just for a couple of hours? 

Nearby Stores on the Place That You Will Stay in

If you want to pack light and keep your things in a limited number, you should consider the nearby stores on the place that you will stay in. You don’t have to bring your food and drinks if there is a close restaurant or cafe that you can dine in. You can also buy your toiletries and even the clothes you will wear during your trip to stores near the beach, so you no longer have to pack many things. Just keep in mind that the budget that you have allocated for this trip to avoid overspending.  

Activities That You Will Do During Your Beach Trip

Another factor that you must keep in mind is the activities you intend to do at the beach. Do you plan to have active outdoor activities? If you do, it would be ideal for bringing your water equipment such as snorkeling accessories, floating devices, or sports accessories that you can play with your friends. If you want to have a relaxing and layback activity, you can bring a book and your reading glasses to have an entertaining time with yourself. On the other hand, if you plan to go and have fun at the beach bar with your friends, you can include clothes and accessories you will need for your night out.

People You Are Going Within Your Beach Outing

If you are going alone to the beach, you can skip this part. However, if you are with your family and your small kids, you should pack more items that your children need. It is important always to bring a first-aid kit with you and other ointments to help in emergencies.    

Things That You Can Bring During Your Beach Trip:

After going through the factors that you must first consider before packing your things, here are the checklist that you can refer to:  

Essential Items

These are the important items that you must not forget since it has your money and your ways to communicate in case of emergency:

  • Keys of your house or car
  • The charger of your phone and your power bank
  • Reading glasses (if you need one)
  • Food and Snacks 

Clothes and Accessories

These items are needed during the length of your stay so you can wear something during your vacation:

  • Slippers or flip flops
  • Sunglasses 

These things can keep you clean and hygienic at all times, especially if the place that you are staying in does not provide these items:

  • Sunscreen for your face, body, and hair
  • Shampoo, soap, toothbrush, and toothpaste
  • Hairbrush and other hair accessories
  • Insect Repellant
  • First Aid Kit

Entertainment Purposes 

These items can keep you entertained throughout your stay that can help in giving you a good experience during your vacation:

  • Books or magazines
  • Speakers or earphones
  • Sports and water accessories
  • Toys (for kids)

Features to Look for When Buying Yourself a Beach Backpack – Buyer’s Guide

Before buying your beach bags, here are some of the features you should look for to be able to purchase the backpack that will provide you the best quality:

Fabric Material

Beach bags are made from different designs, construction, and fabric materials. Some bags are made with water and sand resistance, while others are not. This list of fabric materials are the ones you can choose from if you want to know which one is the best construction that will suit your need and taste:  

This material is made from cotton that is knitted using a plain weave technique. This construction has a sturdy characteristic to avoid wear and tear of the bag. A canvas material will let you carry heavy loads of items since it has good durability. You can also easily remove dirt and stains if the beach bags are made from canvas material, and it can also be cleaned using your washing machine . This type of material can be expensive, but it can keep your bag’s vibrant color for a long period.   

Straw types of beach bags are breathable, easy to clean, and can provide you a good style. However, the disadvantage of this product is that it is not waterproof.

Nylon or Polyester

Beach bags that are made from nylon material have higher strength when it comes to weight ratio. It is lightweight to use, but it can handle heavyweight, which is ideal to use during your travels. This material can hide the wrinkles of its fabric, and it has a strong and flexible feature. The advantage of a beach bag made from nylon fabric is that it can be used on different occasions.   

String or Mesh

Mesh bags are usually used as a substitute bag. These types of bags are usually used in keeping your towels, clothes, sunglasses, and sunscreen. It has a waterproof feature, and it can be easily washed. However, string bags are not ideal for keeping your important valuables, such as your smartphone or wallet.  

PVC and Vinyl

Vinyl fabric can provide you a waterproof and sand-proof feature. It has a soft texture, good durability, and a surface that is easy to clean. With this type of fabric, you can clean its stains just by wiping it away.  

It is important for the beach backpack that you will purchase to have a large size to accommodate all of your things, but it must also be lightweight at the same time. Its lightweight feature will help you prevent back problems or tension on your shoulders on the way to your trip. You can also go for a bag with a big internal compartment that comes with extra pockets if you want to bring food and drinks during your trip. 

Having a wide strap for your beach backpack can determine the comfortability of your shoulder while wearing it. It is important to have an adjustment option for your backpack straps so you can set it according to your size.    

Compartments and Pockets

It is also a good option to have several compartments and pockets in your beach backpack. The largest compartment can store your clothes and towel, while the smaller pockets can keep your smaller items such as gadgets and your wallet. These compartments can help you arrange your things according to its need and purpose. 

After everything discussed in this review, you can now choose for yourself the best beach backpack to have. You must keep in mind the quality of the beach backpack you will purchase and the essential things you will pack for your beach summer trip. If you want to have the best beach backpack product, you can choose and buy the Ultra Lightweight Travel Outdoor Backpack by Outlander. 

FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a beach bag from ordinary bags, what is the ideal size to get for your beach backpack, what are the most important things that you should include in your beach bag , how should you pack your items in your beach bag .

Related Resources:

  • Best Beach Sandals
  • Best Beach Kites
  • Best Wetsuit Cleaners
  • Best Wakeboards for Kids
  • Best Ronix Wakeboards
  • Best Slingshot Wakeboards
  • Superbrand Surfboards

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The 14 Best Carry-on Backpacks of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

These spacious and comfortable carry-on backpacks can easily replace a suitcase.

Anna Popp is a Commerce Writer at Travel + Leisure where she tests, researches, and writes about travel products. Since living overseas in 2018, Anna has been a travel writer and began reviewing products in 2021.

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In This Article

Jump to a Section

  • Our top picks
  • Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

  • Tips For Buying
  • Why Trust T+L

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

Travel + Leisure/Joy Kim

Skip the stress of checking in a bag or lugging a traditional carry-on suitcase around an airport by adding a carry-on backpack to your travel gear. Practical, functional, and hassle-free, a carry-on backpack can fit up to a week’s worth of clothes, depending on your wardrobe and packing prowess. Whether you’re backpacking through Europe or embarking on a weekend getaway, this style helps make your trip as efficient and enjoyable as possible.

We tested dozens of carry-on backpacks and evaluated them based on traits like capacity, comfort, durability, and design. First, we tested the backpacks in our New York City lab and utilized our airplane set complete with row of real plane seats and overhead storage bins. We then took them out into the world for six months to further test each bag on a variety of trips. From rugged to sleek styles, we tested plenty of carry-on backpacks ranging in design and size that impressed us.

Best Overall

Cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack.

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

The backpack has an unstructured style that makes it easy to pack clothing and accessories, plus a plethora of thoughtful features catered to frequent travelers.

There isn’t a designated water bottle holder.

Salt Lake City-based outdoor gear brand Cotopaxi builds brightly colored clothing and accessories to last. The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack earned our top pick as the best carry-on backpack with its perfect performance in all categories of our testing. We loved its high capacity and thought the unstructured style was ideal for wedging clothes into every corner, maximizing packing space in the clamshell-style compartments. The shell is made of a TPU-coated 1000D polyester with a rubbery feel, and although it feels resistant to liquids, the backpack comes with a rain cover to ensure that your belongings stay dry while traveling. Handles on all four sides of the backpack make it easy to carry and lift into an overhead bin from any angle. The only downside to the bag is that it doesn't have a water bottle holder on the sides, so you'll have to carry one or try to fit it in the top pocket in the front.

We think this durable Cotopaxi bag will remain in excellent condition no matter how many times it hits the road, as it was not damaged at all after we repeatedly tossed it onto the ground. The rubber texture also seemed easy to clean and resistant to liquid spills. After six months of regularly using the bag, we found that it's the perfect size for long weekend trips and helps keep all of our items organized and easy to access. Both stylish and functional, this backpack can even be made one-of-a-kind by choosing the surprise colors option when purchased through Cotopaxi’s website.

The Details: 35 liters | 20 x 12 x 8 inches | 3.8 pounds | TPU-coated 1000D polyester, nylon | Padded laptop sleeve

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Travel + leisure / Jhett Thompson

Best Convertible

Away f.a.r. convertible backpack 45l.

  • Design 4.5 /5

We love how comfortable it is on your shoulders and back thanks to the soft materials and cushioned shoulder straps.

At nearly 22 inches tall, this pack may be too long for those with shorter torsos.

You'll be surprised by just how spacious this backpack is. The main compartment opens up like a clam shell for easy access to items that allowed us to fit an entire four-day packing list with ease — plus a few extra items. There are multiple large compartments, compression straps, and a few pockets in this backpack that are ideal for organizing clothes, gear, and accessories. While the 45-liter backpack can grow heavy when completely filled, the padded shoulder straps are supportive and keep you comfortable when walking for long periods of time. Plus, the convenient duffel handles allow you to switch up your carrying style if you do grow fatigued.

This backpack also sports a well-padded laptop sleeve that protected our testing laptop when we threw the fully packed bag off a counter three times. There was also no sign of rips, scuffs, or tears in the bag's fabric after our tests. This water- and abrasion-resistant backpack would be perfect for avid travels who are looking for a sleek backpack to take them from city explorations to camping adventures.

The Details: 45 liters | 21.7 x 13.6 x 9.5 inches | 3.32 pounds | Water-resistant

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Best Budget

Asenlin 40l travel backpack.

It’s spacious and comes with three packing cubes to stay organized while traveling. 

After six months of use, the bag is scuffed up with noticeable scratches.

Perfect for travelers on a budget, the Asenlin 40L Travel Backpack impressed us with its packing features and comfortable fit. We thought the bag provided excellent organization thanks to the interior and exterior compression that provided extra room for packing. The backpack comes with three different packing cubes in small, medium, and large. We also like that this backpack includes both a suitcase strap and a handle to hold it horizontally. The backpack itself also features straps inside and a laptop sleeve to easily hold down items and pack electronics.

The design didn’t blow us away like those from some of the more costly brands, but it does have a laptop sleeve and a water bottle holder. We also liked the flexibility of being able to wear the Asenlin as a backpack, hold it like a briefcase, or use the trolley sleeve to slide it onto a roller suitcase’s handle. However, a bigger adjustment range for the chest strap would have been ideal. During our durability tests, the backpack didn’t scuff or show signs of damage. We think this budget pick is well worth the low price for those looking to get a durable, comfortable, and spacious carry-on backpack. 

The Details: 40 liters | 18.5 x 12.5 x 9.5 inches | 2.7 pounds | Polyester | 17-inch laptop pocket

Best Traditional

Samsonite silhouette 17 backpack.

  • Design 4 /5
  • Durability 4 /5

Thanks to its clamshell design, it’s like a suitcase without wheels.

Some of the straps weren’t intuitive to use.

The Samsonite Silhouette 17 Backpack is ideal for travelers who like the structure and sleek, minimalist style of a traditional suitcase but want the portability of a backpack. We love that this bag opens like a suitcase, making it easy to access everything inside. There was plenty of space leftover after packing the backpack, and the classic clamshell opening allowed for easy access to items in the compression-strapped main compartment and the zippered pockets on the inside of the front flap. All of the interior and exterior pockets, including the water bottle holder and padded laptop sleeve, are useful for traveling. You can convert the backpack to wear as a duffel bag or a briefcase, and it has a rear strap to place on a rolling suitcase if desired. The straps were easy to adjust, and it felt like the weight was nicely distributed thanks to the structured style of the backpack. There was a small scuff on the bag after we tossed it on the floor during our durability tests, but the contents of the backpack remained unharmed. When flying with the bag during our six-month testing period, we found that it easily fits in airplane overhead bins and under the seat. Overall, it’s a backpack with the features of a well-compartmentalized suitcase and much more.

The Details: 13 x 20.5 x 10.5 inches | 3.31 pounds | Polyester, recyclex | Padded laptop pocket | Convertible straps

Best for Photographers

Peak design travel backpack 45l.

  • Value 4.5 /5

You can access the main compartment on the bag from four different exterior zippers.

This is one of the most expensive backpack on our list.

This 45-liter backpack has a main compartment that is spacious enough to fit clothes for at least four days, and its expansive design is helpful for packing bulky items like jackets and shoes. Placing the clothes and shoes into the bag during testing was efficient and simple thanks to a removable divider sleeve and compression straps to hold everything down securely. Designed with photographers in mind, this backpack functions similarly to a camera bag . It can fit camera cubes, and it has four points of entry to the main compartment, allowing travelers to quickly grab clothes or accessories without unzipping the backpack. There is a padded laptop sleeve and stretchy side pockets for water bottles or a camera tripod. 

Peak Design didn’t let any space go to waste on its backpack, so even the hip belt has a small pocket on it for storage and can be packed away when you’re not looking for extra support. It’s also easy to adjust all of the straps to prevent weight imbalances and pinching. Made of weatherproof and water-resistant recycled nylon, the bag held up perfectly after we tossed it on the ground, showing no signs of scuffs or damage — exactly what you want in a durable backpack . Although the price of this bag is steep, it comes with plenty of helpful features for travelers, and the stellar performance leads us to believe that it would last a long time. 

  The Details: 45 liters | 13 x 22 x 9.5 inches | 4.8 pounds | Nylon, polyester | Laptop sleeve | Expandable

Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph

Best Compression

Tropicfeel shell backpack.

  • Comfort 4 /5

It can be converted from 40 liters for traveling to 22 liters to use as a daypack. 

The handle on the top of the bag wasn’t as comfortable to hold onto as we hoped. 

We love this backpack’s thoughtful features geared toward all types of travelers. The Tropicfeel Shell Backpack has the ability to store up to 42 liters worth of clothing for a weekend or week-long trip, but you can also use it as a 20-liter backpack for day trips, sightseeing, and everyday use. After regularly using the bag for six months, we found it to be incredibly sturdy and durable. We had no issues fitting our full packing list and found that there was plenty more room thanks to the variety of buckled straps that allow you to adjust the size of the bag. You can loosen the front buckle to allow the roll-up opening flap to expand to fit more items, and there is a kangaroo pouch at the bottom of the backpack that provides an additional six liters of space for shoes or other items you want to keep separate. There’s also a padded compartment in the back of the backpack that can fit laptops up to 17 inches long. We thought the backpack was comfortable to wear after adjusting the shoulder and waist straps, but we found that it might take some effort to get the buckles into your desired setting. 

The Shell Backpack didn’t show any signs of damage throughout testing, and the material is weather-proof. For travelers looking to add upgrades to their backpack, the brand has an organization system and accessory pouches that you can add on for additional fees. If you need an all-in-one backpack, we think this backpack’s versatility makes it well worth the higher cost. 

The Details: 20-42 liters | 12 x 20 x 7.5 inches

Best Organization

Topo designs global travel bag 30l.

Topo Designs

  • Capacity 4 /5

It comes with packing cubes in a variety of sizes to organize your belongings and an expandable water bottle pocket. 

After six months of use, we noticed the bag can feel quite heavy if packed full.

Packing for a trip can often feel tedious, but the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L helps make it easy and efficient. The backpack comes with a removable packing system that includes two compression bags, two accessory bags, and one toiletry bag. The compression bags are designed to fit inside the main compartment along with the toiletry bag, and you can place the accessory pouches in the zippered mesh pockets along the inside of the front flap. There are plenty of places to stash cords, travel documents, electronics, water bottles, and more.

We loved how convenient it is to store a laptop up to 15 inches in the padded compartment in the back of the bag, and there are two front pockets for easy access to a tablet or phone charger. The adjustable shoulder straps helped evenly distribute the backpack's weight, making it easier and more comfortable to carry around. The 100 percent recycled nylon material also felt durable and would likely stay in good condition over time. 

The Details: 30 liters | 12.5 x 20 x 7 inches

Best Customizable

Roam the continental.

  • Capacity 4.5 /5
  • Comfort 4.8 /5

You can choose from four colors to customize the shade of the front, back, sides, and straps of the backpack. 

The laptop sleeve isn’t padded.

Customized luggage can be hard to come by, but Roam’s The Continental backpack makes it easier than ever to build the carry-on backpack of your dreams. The front, back, sides, and straps of the bag can be red, green, black, or blue, or you can keep the backpack all one color for a monochromatic look. We were a bit worried about the light colors when we first got our hands on this bag, but after four months of traveling, is has no signs of wear and tear, there are no stains or loose threads, and everything is still in good shape. We were also impressed by the exterior pockets to stash headphones, snacks, chargers, water bottles, or anything else you could need whether lounging in the airport or mid-flight. The bag is made with a lightweight, water-repellent fabric and YKK zippers so it easily handles temperamental weather while traveling. Spacious and easy to access, the front flap opens wide so packing the bag with clothes and shoes was a breeze, too. The laptop pocket in the back could easily fit a 17-inch device, but it isn’t padded, so you may want to store your computer in a case to be on the safe side. 

The Details: 26 liters | 17.75 x 14 x 8 inches | 2.4 pounds | Water-repellent fabric | Laptop pocket

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Best Expandable

Nomatic travel pack.

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

The expandable zippers add an extra 3.5 inches of space which increases the capacity to 30 liters.

Some of the pockets feel unnecessary.

The Nomatic Travel Pack is the ultimate versatile carry-on backpack thanks to its expandable zippers that add an extra 10 liters of space. Ideal for an overnight trip or a long weekend getaway, the bag has a variety of pockets and compartments to efficiently organize shoes, clothes, accessories, and technology. While the number of pockets on the interior was a bit overwhelming at first, travelers who like to be extra organized will appreciate the designated padded laptop sleeve, sunglasses case, discrete passport pocket, and plethora of slip and zippered pockets in the main compartment. The handles and padded shoulder straps are comfortable for carrying the bag, and the small-to-medium size of the backpack makes it super comfortable to carry since it doesn’t feel bulky or heavy. We used this bag on a variety of international trips throughout four months of testing, and it still looks new, despite rough handling and being shoved under airplane seats.

The Details: 20 liters (expands to 30 liters) | 18.5 x 12 x 6-9.5 inches | 4.16 pounds | 16-inch laptop pocket

  • Travel + Leisure/Jessica Juliao

Matein Travel Backpack

  • Durability 4.3 /5

It has several compartments for keeping clothing, shoes, tech, and accessories organized.

The materials feel a little lower in quality than other backpacks we tried.

If you’re not ready to invest in a pricier carry-on backpack, you can always dip your toes with this functional and spacious one for under $60. This 40-liter backpack has one large main compartment that can fit several tops, bottoms, and a toiletry case without any issues. We particularly love the separate footwear compartment to prevent the bottom of your shoes from coming into contact with clean clothes and that storage can even fit pairs up to size 12. In addition, there is a laptop pocket and a large front pocket with spots to put items like phone chargers, headphones, and other small accessories that could get lost easily. Compared to the pricier bags we tried, this one feels a bit lower in quality, but none of the nylon fabric tore and scuffed during our durability tests, so we still think this bag has a good lifespan ahead of it. 

The Details: 40 liters | 20 x 13 x 8 inches | 2 pounds | Water-repellent nylon

Best for Hiking

Kühl eskape 25.

The 25-liter capacity makes this backpack versatile for an airplane or the great outdoors.

It takes some adjustments to get it to fit comfortably on the back.

This rugged carry-on backpack from Kühl is the perfect option for travelers embarking on an outdoor adventure. The smaller size of this bag is its greatest strength since it can easily fit enough clothes for a weekend trip, or you can use it as an adventure pack for day hikes or camping trips. There are a variety of thoughtful features for hikers including a stowaway hip belt for extra support while trekking, load-lifting shoulder straps, and the bag is made with durable TPU-laminated nylon. Plus, the chest strap slides up and down the shoulder straps so travelers can get the most comfortable fit for their upper body. We found that it takes some extra effort to adjust all of the straps for the right fit, but once you do, the bag is comfortable to carry for long periods of time. For even more versatility, the bag has a padded laptop pocket and a variety of other small and large zippered pockets to stay organized if you’re commuting or traveling for work. 

The Details: 25 liters | 20.5 x 9.5 x 12.5 inches | Waterproof nylon | 17-inch laptop pocket

Best Waterproof

Tortuga travel backpack.

This bag is basically a suitcase without wheels thanks to its large capacity and clamshell-style opening.

The bag can feel a bit heavy to carry when it’s fully packed.

If you’re traveling somewhere with a rainy climate, you’ll want a carry-on backpack like this one from Tortuga that can ward off the elements. It’s made with the brand’s 100 percent recycled and waterproof Shell200 or “sailcloth” material to protect your belongings and prevent bad weather from putting a serious damper on your trip. During a rainy overnight camping trip, the Tortuga Travel Backpack essentially sat in a puddle for hours, yet none of our gear or clothing inside got wet at all, and the bag was easy to clean with just a wet cloth.

This is a seriously spacious bag at 40 liters, so we found that you can seamlessly fit a week’s worth of clothing (or more) between the two clamshell compartments. Because of the split style of the bag, packing it up is hassle-free since it’s easy to see exactly how much space is left on each side. And if you run out of space in the main compartments, there are top, front, and side exterior pockets to store a laptop, accessories, water bottles, and more items that you’ll want to have handy while traveling.

The Details: 40 liters | 21.7 x 13.8 x 7.9 inches | 4.5 pounds | Waterproof sailcloth | 16-inch laptop pocket

Travel + Leisure / Taylor Fox

Everlane ReNew Transit Backpack

This lightweight backpack has a sleek and contemporary design that comes in several earthy colors.  

It has a smaller capacity than many backpacks and can only fit a day or two of clothes.

If you’re looking to travel in style, Everlane’s The ReNew Transit Backpack is the perfect fit. Functional and contemporary, we found it to be best suited for weekend trips because of its smaller capacity. The bag fit all of the packing items during testing, but it would be difficult to fit much more in the main compartment. The ReNew Transit was comfortable to wear thanks to its lightweight polyester material and compact build. The front flap of the backpack has an external pocket for smaller items, and it folds over to attach magnetically to the front of the backpack. During our durability tests, the front magnets stayed securely together, and the body of the backpack didn’t get crushed or damaged. We liked how it can fit under an airplane seat, making it a versatile backpack for traveling with or without other pieces of luggage. There is a laptop sleeve in the back of the bag as well as a water bottle holder on the side and a front zippered pocket below the folding magnetic lock. With four earthy tones to choose from, this is a bag to fit all travel style preferences. 

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

Best for Foot Travel

Osprey fairview 40.

The compartments and various straps made packing effortless. 

It’s a large bag, but it wasn’t so heavy that it was uncomfortable to wear.

For travelers journeying on foot, the Osprey Fairview wowed us with its spacious interior and comfortable fit. The straps for walking longer distances are really the best part — making your bag feel like you're carrying less since the weight is so well distributed. The bags have the same storage capacity and general style, but Osprey’s women’s backpacks are designed to fit a smaller torso with waist and chest harnesses that sit upward and outward for a more comfortable carry. In testing, the main compartment and mesh zippered pouch on the front flap proved to be spacious. There are two internal compression straps and one external strap that kept belongings secure through our rough handling, so we think the bag would provide sufficient protection if you do need to check it in for a flight. 

We appreciated the padded shoulder straps and back that made wearing the backpack comfortable, despite the weight of its contents. The Osprey Fairview bags have an internal suspension the brand calls “LightWire” that distributes the weight from the harness to the hip belt, and our shoulders didn’t hurt after carrying the backpack since most of the weight shifted to the lower body.

The Details: 40 liters | 22 x 14 x 9 inches

Travel + Leisure /Jhett Thompson

Other Carry-on Backpacks We Liked

While we tested plenty of high-scoring carry-on backpacks, there were some that almost made our list but didn’t quite make the cut due to several weaknesses revealed during testing. 

Bellroy Transit Backpack Plus : We loved the adjustable sternum and waist straps that you can tuck into the bag when not in use, but we think there are better bags out there for a fraction of the price. 

AmazonBasics Carry-on Travel Backpack : It had plenty of compartments for staying organized and the material felt durable, but there weren’t any standout features that made it a must-have backpack. 

Vancropak Carry-on Backpack, Extra Large 40L : This backpack fits all of the packing items, and it even fits under an airplane seat, but our budget pick performed slightly better and it costs less. 

On two separate occasions, we tested carry-on backpacks in our New York City lab to make sure we were creating this list with the best options from trusted luggage brands. For our latest tests, we built a specially designed airplane set that includes a row of real airplane seats and an overhead storage bin. To date, we've put over 34 carry-on backpacks through a series of trials that compared capacity, design, comfort, durability, and overall value. After completing our in-house testing, we sent the backpacks out with our Travel + Leisure editors to give us insight on how they fared during real-world travel. We have been updating this article with long-term testing insights as soon as they become available. 

To test for capacity, we began by packing the bags with three shirts, two pairs of pants, one jacket, one pair of shoes, and a toiletry bag. We noted if any space was leftover as well as how functional the compartments were for organizing the contents packed. We evaluated the overall design of the bags by paying attention to how they fold out, how well the zippers and buckles work, and the functionality of each pocket or compartment. 

Next, we put on the backpacks and walked around for 10 minutes to rate comfortability. The highest scoring backpacks were exceptionally enjoyable to wear with the weight evenly distributed on the shoulders or hips.

Then, we threw the backpacks a few feet or off a countertop to test for durability. The highest-rated bags had no scuffs or tears after rough handling, and the packed items inside remained unharmed as well. 

Our testers had no previous knowledge of the cost of each backpack until after testing was completed. This allowed us to give an unbiased rating of overall values, where the top bags were determined to be fairly priced based on a high-quality performance, especially for the pricier bags. After our lab tests, the backpacks were sent out for real-world testing for up to six months.

Tips for Buying a Carry-on Backpack

Consider under-the-seat versus carry-on bags.

Not all carry-on backpacks will fit under the seat of an airplane, but if that’s your intended use, we recommend checking an airline’s underseat dimensions before heading to the airport. Similarly, with a carry-on backpack for the overhead bin, you’ll want to double-check the airline’s carry-on size restrictions to avoid paying unwanted fees if the bag is stuffed full of clothes. 

Keep in mind what the bag will be used for

For those traveling by foot, a smaller, lightweight backpack would be better for portability and comfort. For those traveling by air, a compression bag or backpack that has plentiful organization could be a better choice so you get the most out of the limited airline baggage space.

During our test, we packed three shirts, two pants, one jacket, one pair of shoes, and a toiletry bag into each bag and often had extra space for more clothes. Many backpacks come with a laptop compartment , but you’ll want to make sure that feature is included before purchasing yours.

Carry-on size restrictions vary by airline, and it’s possible for a carry-on backpack to not fit within some limits. Most bags will have a product details section highlighting the dimensions of the backpack. If you’re looking to fit the bag solely under the seat , you should check to make sure the bag fits the dimensions while it’s packed.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Anna Popp is a commerce writer at T+L, where she reviews travel products and writes the majority of the team's "Travel + Leisure Trusted" articles. Anna owns several carry-on backpacks, including the top pick from Cotopaxi, so she combined knowledge of traveling with just a backpack and the thorough lab testing and real-world insights to put together this list of the best carry-on backpacks.

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best surf travel backpack

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  2. The Best Surf Backpacks of 2023

    Best Backpack for Surf Travel Rip Curl F-Light Surf 40L ($141) Pros: Front pocket keeps you organized, large. Cons: Hefty bag. Waterproof: 5/5 Portability: 4/5 Durable: 5/5 Storage: 5/5

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    Dakine Surfboard Bag Noserider. The Dakine Surfboard Bag Noserider deflects the sun's rays and comes with a corrosion-proof zipper that opens and closes smoothly even after seasons of exposure to salty air and water. It features incredibly lightweight padding and will accommodate longboards ranging from 7'6" to 10'2".

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    The lack of recent reputable reviews gives us pause, along with the sparse Shopify website, which, the last time we checked, in 2024, wasn't operational. (The company now appears to be selling ...

  9. Best Surfing Backpack in 2023

    Best Of The Best. Dakine Cyclone II Dry Pack 36L Jump To Review. Best On A Budget. COR Surf Waterproof Dry Bag Backpack Jump To Review. Best All-Rounder. Patagonia Black Hole 25L Jump To Review. But, finding the best surf backpacks is a challenging task. You never know if they can handle the salt or if they will actually protect your gear.

  10. Top 7 Best Surfing Backpacks

    Cyclone II Dry Pack (36L) Backpack by Dakine - Best Overall. #2. Cyclone Roll Top (32L) Backpack by Dakine - Minimalistic Surfing Backpack. #3. F-Light Surf Pack by Rip Curl - Best Lightweight Surf Backpack. #4. Panga 50 by Yeti - Most Versatile Surfing Bag. #5.

  11. The 3 Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

    Comfortable, adjustable, and carry-on capable, the Fairview has everything we needed for a week, or even months, of travel. $220 from REI. $220 from Osprey. The Osprey Fairview 55 and the nearly ...

  12. 10 Best Backpacks of 2024

    The Timbuk2 Authority Deluxe is our pick for the best laptop backpack for most people. It has an entirely separate padded pocket at the back of the bag for a 17-inch (or smaller) laptop. It also has a second padded laptop sleeve in the main compartment. We are big fans of the padding on the back and shoulder straps.

  13. Top 5 Surfing Backpacks in 2023

    This is a very well-constructed surfing backpack that is made to last with a limited lifetime warranty. It has a good mix of pockets keeping all the important stuff within easy reach, including fleece-lined sunglasses storage. Handy for any kind of surf travel. Size: 34 liters. Laptop compartment: Yes.

  14. 10 of the Best Surfboard Travel Bags in 2023

    Pro-lite Coffin Surfboard Travel Bag Triple/Quad (3-4 Boards) Dakine Recon Surf Thruster Travel Bag - Carbon. FCS Travel 2 All Purpose Boardbag. Ocean & Earth Double Surfboard Bag. Quiksilver Expedition Triple 3-4 Boardbag. FK Surf Wheelie Travel Cover. Creatures of Leisure Fish Double Surfboard Bag.

  15. The 5 Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

    The 5 Best Travel Backpacks of 2024. We thoroughly tested travel backpacks from Osprey, Cotopaxi, Tortuga, Peak Design, The North Face, and other brands to help you pick the ideal adventure partner. By Hale Milano, Liz Chamberlain, and Hayley Thomas. Monday February 12, 2024.

  16. Store And Pack It In One Of The Best Surf Backpacks (2022)

    1. Rip Curl Men's F-Light Surf Molded Backpack. The Rip Curl Men's F-Light Surf Molded Backpack comes in one color (midnight black) and one size (12″ x 15″ x 6″) — but you find won't find it limited in its usefulness in your surfing adventures and everyday life. Rip Curl Men's F-Light Surf Molded Backpack, Midnight, 1SZ.

  17. Surf Backpacks

    Whether you are looking to elevate your surfing gear or just starting out and want the best surfing bags, you'll find the perfect fit with our collection. Featuring durability and a lightweight exterior, our surf backpacks are the best complement to boards and swimsuits. Travel in style from surf to sand, and create a natural marriage with this ...

  18. The Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

    Best Budget Travel Backpack: Dakine Campus 33L Backpack; Best Carrying Travel Backpack: Osprey Farpoint & Fairview 40 Travel Packs; Best Organization in a Travel Backpack: Matador SEG45 Travel ...

  19. Top 10 Best Surfboard Travel Bags

    Channel Islands Travel Light CX2 Coffin Surfboard Travel Bag. Ocean & Earth Double Travel Compact Shortboard Travel Bag. Pro-Lite Travel Double - Longboard Bag Rhino. South Bay Board Co. Premium Surfboard and Paddle Board Travel Bags. Dakine Daylight Surf Thruster Travel Bag.

  20. 8 best travel backpacks of 2024, according to National Geographic

    Our best overall travel backpack is the Peak Design Travel Pack 45L, which ticks all the boxes for durability, versatility, and comfort, but also offers a thoughtful design, unique organizational ...

  21. The Best Travel Backpacks For Every Type Of Traveler

    Best Travel Backpack For Laptops And Electronics: Peak Design Travel 45L. Best Backpack For Active Travelers: Osprey Fairview 55L. Best Weekender Backpack: Patagonia Black Hole 25L. Best Travel ...

  22. Best Surf Backpacks Review (2022) See The Top 7

    The Dakine Cyclone Roll Top 32L surf backpack is the little brother of our top pick. It is built of the same materials and boasts the same waterproof welded construction. However, it comes in at a little more than half the cost because it removes the two outside pockets, the carry hook, and the purge valve.

  23. The Best Backpacks for Travel From $37

    The 14 Best Backpacks for Every Type of Traveler, From Campers to Commuters — Starting at $37. After 20 years of travel writing, I've found the perfect pack for any trip.

  24. Top 10 Best Beach Backpacks

    Top 10 Best Beach Backpack Reviewed. Ultra Lightweight Travel Outdoor Backpack by Outlander - Best Overall. Deluxe Ventilator Unisex Mesh Equipment Bag by Speedo- Best Value. Lightweight Backpack with Cooler by Seehonor - Editor's Choice. Mesh Pack Backpack by Jansport. Lightweight Travel Backpack by Roam.

  25. The 14 Best Carry-on Backpacks of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

    Salt Lake City-based outdoor gear brand Cotopaxi builds brightly colored clothing and accessories to last. The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack earned our top pick as the best carry-on backpack with ...

  26. Surfboard travel bag advice! : r/surfing

    Dakine regulator double/quad convertible. Dakine recon 4. FCS travel bag. Some links to help people help you. I don't know any of the bags. Personally all I need in a bag is good padding, zip all the way round, enough space to fit some clothes, gear and wetty, and a couple of straps to hold the crap inside together.