travel backpack with detachable purse

10 Best Backpacks with Detachable Daypack for EDC, Travel & Backpacking

• Updated: July 19, 2023
• One Comment

I’ve carefully selected and put together a list of the 10 Best Backpacks with Detachable Daypacks. These ingenious 2-in-1 bag systems are designed to meet all your storage requirements and adapt effortlessly to any situation. So, if you’re an avid adventurer, traveler, or just someone who loves being prepared for any situation, you’ll want to keep on reading.

Table of Contents

10 best backpacks with detachable daypack of 2023.

In a hurry? Here is a preview of the best backpacks with detachable daypack

Backpacks with detachable daypack for everyday use and travel

Salkan the backpacker.

• Osprey Farpoint 55
• Osprey Fairview 55L Backpack
• Caribee Sky Master II 70 Wheeled Travel Pack

Thule Landmark Travel Backpack

Backpacks with detachable daypack for extended trips and outdoor activities

Teton Sports Grand 5500 Backpack

• Osprey Aether Plus 85 Backpack
• Crazy Ants Tactical Backpack with detachable packs

Aviant Voyager 65 + 10

• Mountain Warehouse Traveler Backpack

In this part of the review, I’ll be talking about backpacks that come with an extra smaller bag, which you can detach and use separately for day trips, sightseeing, or everyday commuting.

Don’t worry, you can still use these backpacks for hiking or other fun adventures, but they might not hold enough stuff for long trips.

The Backpacker by Salkan is a versatile two-bag system that combines a travel pack and a daypack into a single package . The Daypack easily attaches to the Mainpack, providing additional storage for long-term travel. However, it can also be detached to function as a smaller standalone bag for day trips. Essentially, it’s like having two excellent backpacks merged into a single unit.

My favorite thing is the flexibility the package offers. The daypack has a 20L capacity , which is spacious enough to hold everyday essentials. The main pack on the other hand has a capacity of 45 liters (expandable up to 55 liters ), allowing you to pack lotta supplies for longer trips.

Both packs feature a dedicated compartment for a 15-inch laptop. Additionally, there are numerous convenient pockets, such as two water bottle pockets, expandable side pockets, a quick-access pocket, and a hidden security pocket for storing valuables.

Nate Hake of Travel Lemming in his review acknowledges that the Salkan backpack might be excessive for those who primarily take shorter trips. However, he asserts that “ for hardcore backpackers like myself, the Salkan was obviously designed with us in mind .”

So, thanks to its combined capacity of 65 liters, I would recommend the Salkan pack to long-term travelers, digital nomads, chronic overpackers (because we all have our moments!), and backpackers seeking a practical bag for serious outdoor adventures.

What we also like

The Salkan backpack is durable and also offers a comfortable carrying experience. The padded back panel, shoulder straps, sternum strap, and hip belt are thoughtful additions that help distribute the weight more effectively. Plus, you can easily adjust it to fit your body type. It’s simply a backpack to adore!

What we don’t like

This bag has a lot of features that might take some time to figure out. It’s not the easiest bag to use right away due to all the features it has. Nate agrees , saying it’s “not the most intuitive bag out of the box (so many features means there is a learning curve)”.

I also want to mention that it’s a bit expensive, although I think it’s worth the price because of its great value. But if you’re on a budget, you might be better off considering cheaper options like Osprey bags . 

The Osprey Farpoint 55 Travel Backpack

The Farpoint is a popular choice for many people because it’s a well-made and durable pack. What makes it even better is that it is one of the best backpacks with detachable daypack.

To start, it features two sections; a front-loading main backpack and a removable daypack that zips onto the bigger bag . This means you can zip it onto the back of the main backpack or clip onto the harness straps in the front , like a kangaroo pouch! Options, huh?

Plus, the backpack set is really versatile. You can use it for carry-on travel (both bags are carry-on complaint ), backpacking or camping trips, and even for everyday use with the bonus daypack.

The 42-liter main pack holds your clothes and gear, while the 13-liter integrated daypack is great for day trips and has a designated 15″ laptop compartment and other useful pockets.

Many people, like Sky Ariella from Travel Lemming, have tested this backpack in real-life situations across 10 countries. They love how it can easily hold all their belongings and last for years. That’s why I think the Osprey Farpoint has a well-deserved reputation as one of the best travel backpacks for men.

Another great thing about this backpack is that it’s comfy. It has a suspension system with a hip belt, adjustable chest strap, and load-lifter straps, so it’s comfortable to carry.

There’s even a ventilated mesh back panel to keep you cool and dry in hot or humid weather. Plus, it has compression straps to keep your things secure.

Like many backpacks with detachable daypacks, you might struggle to put it on your back when it’s fully packed. The 2-in-1 design can get bulky when filled to the brim.

And, as noted by Red Fedora in their review, both packs lack sufficient pockets and organizational dividers. To keep everything organized, I think you might need to use packing cubes or compression cubes. 

Osprey Fairview 55L Travel Backpack

I included the Fairview on my list of backpacks with detachable daypacks because of its smart design, comfort, and great features.

It’s specifically designed for women , taking into consideration the slightly shorter and narrower female torso. The bag also features wide shoulder straps, a hip belt, and a mesh harness that keeps your back from getting sweaty.

Thanks to its 2-in-1 design , the Fairview is versatile and suitable for various activities such as traveling between destinations, day hikes walks into town, or even shopping.

And it’s no surprise that you can trust an Osprey bag. The Fairview is incredibly durable and can handle rough treatment, even if you use it frequently or heavily.

For example, Pati from Pati’s Journey Within , who has used this bag for over a year to four different destinations, still finds it in good shape and working condition. As Pati put it, “ I can’t say the bag looks brand new after a year of traveling because it doesn’t. But nothing broke, nothing ripped, there are no holes, and the zippers are still perfect. This bag is a reliable powerhouse that will last forever. Now I understand why Osprey offers a lifetime warranty .”

The one thing I’m not really a fan of with the Osprey Fairview, and it’s the same for the Farpoint, is that there aren’t many pockets to keep things organized. It would have been better to have more pockets for better organization. Also, if you plan on using this bag as a carry-on or personal item that fits under the seat, be careful not to overstuff it so it doesn’t go over the size limit. 

Caribee Sky Master 70L II Wheeled Travel Pack

The Sky Master II is the go-to backpack if you want to carry heavy gear painlessly. Rather than deal with a heavy bag , you can effortlessly roll it behind you on wheels —your back will thank you.

But here’s the best part: it’s not just a regular backpack. It’s a wheeled backpack with a removable daypack, making it even more versatile. You get to wear the daypack with the main bag or rock it solo for shorter trips and day outings.

The main pack itself has a capacity of 70 liters , while the daypack holds 16 liters . And similar to the Osprey bags above, you can choose to attach the daypack at the back for balance or in front for easy access to your valuables.

Another cool feature of this backpack is its separate shoe compartment . Keep your footwear or dirty items separate from your clean clothes. And don’t worry about running out of space, because this backpack is loaded with internal pockets, slots, and compression straps to keep your gear organized and secure.

Roll it, wear it, detach the daypack—this bag is all about convenience and versatility. With terrain-friendly wheels and a telescopic handle that can be tucked away at the top, it’s a breeze to roll around. And if it’s not too heavy, you can simply wear it on your back when navigating through uneven terrains, busy public transportation, or cramped spaces.

While this backpack has its perks, there are a few complaints worth mentioning. Some users find the handlebar less durable and not adjustable enough for users of different heights. Broken zippers , damaged wheels , and disappointing customer support when it comes to honoring warranty claims have also been reported. All in all, I think it still deserves a spot on the list of best backpacks with detachable daypacks. 

The Thule Landmark backpack is a high-quality gem from Sweden. This backpack has been around for many years and travelers have praised its durability for both travel and backpacking adventures. It’s truly reliable and won’t disappoint you. 

Let me share a review from a happy traveler to support my claim: “ It’s the perfect size and incredibly accommodating for traveling abroad. With its numerous pockets, zipper tie downs, and strap stowaways, I felt comfortable and secure carrying my money, passports, and visas through Vietnam and South Korea .”

If you want more details, here they are:

As one of the best backpacks with detachable daypack, the Thule Landmark features a 40L main pack , along with a 20L removable daypack . You can attach the daypack to the back, or hang it on the shoulder harness, positioning it on your chest.

This makes it fantastic for shorter hikes or using it as carry-on luggage. During your longer trips abroad, you can even leave the larger backpack at the hostel and carry the smaller daypack for sightseeing.

What I love most about this bag is how organized it is. Inside, you’ll find numerous pockets to keep your gear and clothing neatly organized. There’s even a special SafeZone compartment for your valuable items, a sleeve to securely store a 15″ laptop, and deep side pockets for water bottles.

Padding is important since you’ll be hauling two bags around— a backpack with an attached daypack. This is why this one is designed to fit your body closely and comfortably. It features Deuter’s high-quality internal frame system, which effectively distributes the weight even when carrying heavy loads. Additionally, the backpack has a well-ventilated back panel to keep you cool and a sternum strap for added stability.

If you’re small in stature, the setup of carrying two bags can be quite bothersome. Having a backpack in the front and another in the back feels cumbersome and can make you tired. However, if you’re willing to handle this “inconvenience,” then the Thule backpack is worth considering.

Backpacks with detachable daypack for extended trips & outdoor activities

The bags in this section are larger and made for long trips or outdoor activities where you need to carry a bunch of stuff. 

This is an affordable backpack designed for multi-day hiking expeditions, backpacking adventures, and even extended trips spanning weeks.

It boasts a whopping 90-liter capacity in the main pack, ensuring you’ve got room to spare for all your hiking gear. And as a bonus, it comes with a nifty 3-liter detachable front pouch for quick errands or short hikes away from your base camp.

For all you organized hikers out there, this bag is a dream come true. It features a dedicated sleeping bag compartment , 7 pockets, and a plethora of attachment points to secure your climbing gear, skis, snowboard, camping equipment, and more. Oh, and did I mention it’s hydration compatible ? You get to stay refreshed while conquering those trails like a boss.

When it comes to keeping your gear dry during adventures, this bag means business. Crafted from tough and water-resistant 420D Oxford material, it’s built to withstand the elements.

But wait, there’s more! It also comes with an integrated tarp-poncho that’s generously sized to shield both you and your pack from the rain. Talk about next-level protection!

But here’s the coolest part—you can use it as a makeshift shelter or poncho whenever the need arises. When you’re done, simply tuck it away until it’s needed again. 

What we don’t like

While this pack does come with some comfort features like a chest strap, padded back section, and straps , I have to note that as you load it up with more items, the comfort level may decrease.

Some users have reported issues such as shoulder straps tearing under the weight of the bag or finding them not durable enough. There have also been complaints about faulty zippers that simply don’t hold up over time.  

Osprey Aether Plus 85 pack

Load it up, attach even more gear, and still have a smile on your face— that’s the power of the Osprey Aether Plus backpack. It’s definitely one of the best backpacks with a detachable daypack on the market.

Unlike the Teton Grand 5500, the Osprey Aether Plus 85 (for men) and Ariel Plus 85 (for women) are incredibly spacious packs that excel at carrying heavy loads . Also, the top lid actually detaches and transforms into a handy 16L daypack so you can leave your full pack behind to explore a side trail.

Organization is a breeze with the Aether and Ariel. They offer a plethora of pockets and compartments to keep everything neatly in place. Need quick access? No worries. There are dual-zippered hip belt pockets, water bottle pockets, and a convenient front “shove-it” pocket.

But that’s not all—these packs have even more impressive features. Think internal hydration bladder sleeve , ample compression straps, and attachment points for your ice axes, tent poles, and all your essentials. 

Let’s talk about how comfortable these backpacks are for carrying heavy loads. They have an AirScape back panel with breathable foam and mesh to keep you cool during warm adventures. The LightWire frame transfers the pack’s weight to the hip belt, providing better weight distribution and a comfy carry.

And let’s not forget its durable construction, sustainable materials, and weatherproof protection. Osprey is a brand you can trust to always deliver on quality, and this hiking backpack is no exception.

A couple of things. The Aether Plus 85 backpack is big, expensive, and has a bunch of straps and pockets that might seem overwhelming for some folks.

Stu, a reviewer from Peak Mountaineering , tested and really enjoyed this bag, but even he mentioned that the abundance of straps, pockets, and attachment points can make it look complicated, which might not be everyone’s cup of tea. 

Crazy Ants Tactical Backpack

Because carrying multiple bags is no fun, the Crazy Ants backpack comes with a three-in-one solution. It has three (3) detachable pouches —one in the front and two on the sides.

These pouches include an EMT First Aid utility pouch, a tactical pouch, and a waist pouch. They help you organize your gear and avoid the frustration of searching through a messy bag.

Its spacious 55L capacity gives you plenty of room for a weekend expedition or a take-along to the shooting range. It even has tie straps at the bottom where you can attach a sleeping bag or tent. It’s truly versatile!

What’s more? This tactical backpack is surprisingly very comfortable for its size. This is because the shoulder strap and back panel are padded, and there’s ventilation to prevent excessive sweating. The sternum and hip straps provide additional support and stability, ensuring a comfortable fit no matter how far you roam.

The backpack is built to handle it all, whether you’re going to the shooting range, taking a trip, or even braving warzones. Crazy Ants has earned a well-deserved reputation as one of the best backpacks with a detachable daypack.

Be careful with the laptop compartment of this backpack with a detachable daypack because it doesn’t have any padding . If the bag falls to the ground, there’s a risk of damaging your device.

Also, some users have reported that the bag is not as spacious as the manufacturer claims. And there have been comments about the stitching not being very durable, so the sewn points could be improved for better quality. 

The Aviant Voyager makes a solid case of a backpack with detachable daypack that’s suitable for both travel and backcountry tours.

It has a 65L capacity in the main pack that features a detachable daypack where you can safely store your 13-inch laptop and valuables. The “+10” feature allows you to expand the backpack’s volume by an additional 10 liters , giving you a total of 75 liters of space when needed.

This backpack is packed with useful features. It includes a built-in rain cover , compression straps to secure your belongings, and a separate bottom compartment that’s perfect for storing a sleeping bag or dirty clothes.

I am a huge fan of Deuter packs and cannot say enough about their durability. These backpacks are designed to withstand tough conditions and undergo rigorous field testing before they’re even released.

To give you an example, let me share a story about a traveler who took the Aviant Voyager backpack on a trip to Namibia , including a safari. They found the backpack to be extremely well-designed and easy to load. Even after three weeks of travel, including a sandstorm in the desert, the backpack still looked brand new. That’s how durable this pack is!

The Aviant hiking backpack is on the pricier side, and it can become quite heavy when worn for extended periods of time. So, keep that in mind when considering your options. 

Mountain Warehouse Traveller Backpack

Like other backpacks with detachable daypacks, the Mountain Warehouse pack daypack attaches to and becomes part of the larger pack. The main pack can hold up to 60 liters , while the daypack has a capacity of 20 liters . These two bags have the capacity to take on seriously long trips and are also great for day trips.

I also like that the backpack is equipped with various pockets and compression straps that let you tighten the bag and make it more compact so that the items inside don’t move around.

The great thing about this backpack with a detachable daypack is that it’s quite comfortable to wear. It has a breathable back panel that prevents you from getting too hot, along with two shoulder straps and hip and sternum straps that help distribute the weight during long walks.

And it also has an integrated rain cover to protect your valuable belongings from bad weather.

Some users have mentioned a few things they don’t like about this backpack. One common complaint is that the shoulder straps, which are advertised as “one size fits all,” are not well adjustable for tall people.

For example, a tall man who used the bag mentioned that the padded part of the strap ends at his shoulder joints, and the buckles and thin part of the shoulder strap dig into his pectoral muscles, which can be uncomfortable for long-distance wear.

Furthermore, there have been a few complaints about the zippers and seam stitching, with some users mentioning that they are not very durable or well-made.

What is the best backpack with detachable daypack?

In my opinion, Salkan, The Backpacker is the best backpack with a detachable daypack because it’s practical, comfortable, and built to last. That said, the best backpack with detachable day pack is one that fits your body and your backpacking objectives. It should be comfortable, spacious, and well-made.

What is a detachable day pack?

A detachable day pack is a small bag that can be easily removed from your main pack. It gives you more space when attached and you can also wear it alone as a separate backpack for day trips.

What is the difference between a rucksack and a daypack?

A rucksack is a bigger, sturdier backpack for carrying heavy loads on longer trips like hiking or camping. A daypack, on the other hand, is a smaller, lighter backpack meant for shorter outings and carrying the essentials for a day’s adventure.

What is the difference between a backpack and daypack?

A daypack is a smaller version of a backpack that is usually meant for day trips or simple overnight trips. It usually has a capacity ranging from 15L to 35L. A backpack on the other hand can be bigger or otherwise. There are many kinds of backpacks, from hiking to backpacking backpacks. You can find more information in my detailed review of the 31 different types of backpacks . 

How do you combine a backpack and a daypack?

To use both together, simply attach the day pack to the main backpack according to the instructions provided. You can watch the video above to see an example of how it’s done.

Bottom Line

Yaay , you made it to the end of my top 10 backpacks with a detachable daypack review!

Now it’s your turn! There may be other options that I may have missed out on. If you have any recommendations for backpacks with detachable bags that you think I should know about, please let’s know in the comment section!

Also, be sure to check out my detailed guide on the Different Types of Backpacks to Suit Any Occasion .

Why You Should Trust Travelccessories

If you’re looking for trustworthy guidance on travel accessories, you can count on Travelccessories! Hi, I’m Femi, and I’m proud to say that I’m an expert in travel gear. Together with my incredible team, we’ve put together a comprehensive review that draws on our hands-on testing, extensive research on reputable brands, careful examination of product manuals and customer feedback, and evaluation of numerous luggage models. We only review bags with robust construction, exceptional features, and high ratings from real users. But what truly sets us apart is our dedication to providing honest and thorough information. You see, my team and I do not accept payment for reviews. Our mission is to give you all the facts, so you can make informed decisions when choosing the right luggage for your travels. I also want to make it clear that this article is not sponsored in any way by any company. These products have been independently selected by myself and my team. And the only thing I receive is a small commission from our affiliate program if you buy any of them through the links and buttons on this page. It doesn’t cost you a penny. But it really helps me out as this money goes to paying for maintaining the website, editing software, my time, team and everything else that goes into preparing this post.

Wole Femi Asaolu

1 thought on “10 best backpacks with detachable daypack for edc, travel & back”.

I like the Osprey Farpoint backpack because you can clip the day pack to your front. This is a huge advantage when hiking for days on end. The fact that it is also carry-on ‘luggage friendly’ is awesome. If I can save having to wait for an hour for my bags, I’ll do it. The less time spent in airports, the better. My girlfriend had an Osprey pack years ago and the zip malfunctioned. And since the pack has a lifetime warranty, she sent it back, and instead of replacing the zip, they gave her a brand new latest model pack…. Talk about great customer care!

Thanks for doing the research and coming up with great options.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

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

Privacy Overview

Don't miss out on our periodic giveaways

Join our newsletter and stay up-to-date with the latest blogpost, travel tips and giveaways.

Don't miss out on our periodic giveaway

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.

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

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

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

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

Editor’s Note: We updated our travel backpack guide on March 20, 2024 to add the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L — a supremely nice commuter-style travel pack, as well as the Thule Aion 40L and Osprey Archeon 30L .

• 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: Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L
• Best Personal Item Travel Pack: TimBuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

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

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

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

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

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

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

• 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, the Dakine Campus 33L Backpack ($75) 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. This design has a padded laptop sleeve and a fleece-lined top pocket to keep your sunglasses safe. There’s an organizer pocket that’s 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, 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 they would have been nice for 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 the basics, 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Matador SEG45 Travel Pack

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read Review: Dresser in a Backpack: Matador SEG42 Review

Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L

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

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

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

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

Bar none, the Civic Panel Loader has the best laptop sleeve we’ve ever encountered in a backpack, and that’s saying something. The side-accessed zippered aperture can hold a 17” Macbook Pro, and nestles into a fully padded space at the rear of the pack. This sleeve is suspended from the bottom of the bag, as we’ve seen in many forward-thinking bags, but goes a step further and protects the laptop from the side with an aluminum stay — the primary functionality of which is to support the side handle on the bag. Genius.

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

On the interior of the pack, two large pockets are subdivided with a few smaller sleeves and pockets, which are oriented to be accessed with the bag on its side. We carried this pack for a month straight of remote work, lugging it to coffee shops and co-working spaces, and it supplanted all other packs we’ve used previously. “It’s hard not to love a pack that makes your life easier,” says Senior Editor Nick Belcaster. “This pack does that. Laptop, headphones, notebooks — a whole lot goes into the pack without a care.”

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

Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

On the back panel of the GlobeRider, one of the more novel stowage systems we’ve seen packs away the shoulder straps and hip belt for when you want to slim down the 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 MLC does, which can be handy when moving quickly through the airport.

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

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

Thule Aion 40L

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Osprey Archeon 30L

• Capacity 30 L
• Weight 3 lbs.
• Dimensions 20.5" x 13" x 11.4"
• Compartment access Zippered top-access
• Material 840D ballistic polyester with carbonate coating

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• 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.

Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 40L

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cotopaxi Allpa 28L Travel Pack

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tom Bihn Synapse 25

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

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

Refined and clean-looking, the Tom Bihn Synapse 25 ($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.

Osprey Nebula 32 Daypack

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

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

When it comes to backpacks, Osprey has put in the time — and it shows. The Nebula 32 ($140) feels like 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

How We Tested Travel Backpacks

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

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

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

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

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

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose a Travel Backpack

Travel backpack user profiles.

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

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

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

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

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

For bumping around town, we’ve come to love the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24 , which not only lugs our remote office around with ease, but also looks pretty slick doing it. The drawstring opening here is a huge boon for quickly stashing a jacket, and the tough exterior fears no weather forecast. For a budget just-get-it-done choice, the Dakine Campus 33L will make it happen for less.

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

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

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

Packs in the smaller end of the range, from around 25-30 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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Carrying Options

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

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

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

Pockets & Organization

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

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

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

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

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

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

Space Efficiency & Carry-On Compliance

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

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

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

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

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

Budget-Minded Travel Packs

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

Mid-Range Travel Packs

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

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

Premium Travel Packs

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

The Tom Bihn Synapse 25 ($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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Best Laptop Backpacks of 2024

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

The Best Daypacks of 2024

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

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

Follow Us On

Subscribe Now

Get adventure news and gear reviews in your inbox!

Join Our GearJunkie Newsletter

Gear Top Stories Deals

The Best Travel Backpack

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

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

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.

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.

May be out of stock

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

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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

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

The Best Camera for Your Dream Vacation Isn’t a Smartphone

by Ben Keough

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.

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.

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.

Wirecutter’s Favorite Bags, Totes, Backpacks and Carryalls

by Truth Headlam

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

5 best backpacks for every travel style

Editor's Note

My purple camo Trans by Jansport backpack served me well for 20-plus years. It accompanied me to several countries, on countless road trips and along many hikes.

However, as I improved my packing strategies and my needs changed, I realized my current backpack situation was not ideal.

My bag lacked padding for my laptop, which I never travel without these days. It didn't include enough compartments for me to stay organized, either. Also, I've lost more than a handful of water bottles over the years, thanks to the short and loose side pockets.

Backpack benefits

The best travel backpacks are durable, well-organized and roomy enough for all your travel essentials.

They can also be more comfortable for frequent use. Because they're better at distributing weight, they're less likely to cause musculoskeletal damage that lugging a heavy tote bag on one shoulder might.

"Carrying heavy weight on one side of the body can cause a forward tilt of the shoulder, and poor posture, which can lead to shoulder and back pain long-term," said Dr. Jenny Yu, head of medical affairs at Healthline Media (which is owned by TPG's parent company, Red Ventures).

Backpacks are also easier to manage than rolling carry-ons, making your sprint to your connecting flight a little more efficient.

It was time to level up. Choosing the perfect replacement was a daunting task, though. I researched several models from different brands in varied price ranges.

Considerations when choosing a backpack

The type of bag you choose depends largely on how you plan to use it. Will it serve as your go-to bag for day trips, work commutes and road trips? Or, do you need a sturdy backpack for camping, hiking and long-haul flights or extended travel?

Once you narrow down your needs, it's easier to hone in on your other requirements.

Your travel plans and how you plan to use your backpack will likely determine how small or large your bag should be.

A park day out with the kids or a cruise port shore excursion may just require a small (6–10L) bag. Daypacks, typically 10–30L, are fine for your work commute or hiking. For travel purposes — from weekend getaways to multiday vacations — backpacks in the 30–45L range are your best bet.

On most U.S. airlines, a 45L backpack is the maximum size carry-on allowed. If you're flying on a budget carrier, you'll probably want to stick with something under the 40L range.

For packing purposes, a 45L bag is a good option if you're not bringing another carry-on. It should be able to hold four large packing cubes, a medium packing cube and a toiletry bag. This size fits in the overhead compartment.

Storing your backpack in the overhead bin? It shouldn't be larger than 22 by 14 by 9 inches.

You can fit two large packing cubes, a medium cube and a small toiletry bag in a 35L backpack. It should fit under the seat in front of you on the aircraft.

If you want to ensure your backpack fits under the seat, it can't exceed 18 by 14 by 8 inches, according to airline policy.

Related: How to tell if your backpack counts as a personal or carry-on item.

Backpacks can feature a variety of anti-theft components — some styles are more robust than others.

You may not need your bag to be at a Fort Knox level of security, but it should inclfeatures that can protect you (and your belongings) from thieves or pickpockets.

Consider a backpack constructed with slash-resistant material and straps, as well as lockable zippers.

Bags that offer RFID protection are lined with a special material that blocks accidental payments and intentional skimming of credit cards. They can prevent criminals from electronically accessing your personal information.

Compartments

If you use packing cubes, this might not be as big of a consideration for you. Even with packing cubes, I like having smaller sections for things I need to access easily — my phone, chargers, reporter notebook (yeah, I'm old school), passport and other necessities.

What do you typically pack in your backpack? As I mentioned, a laptop pocket is essential for me. I also like to have hidden pockets to store my passport, COVID-19 vaccine card and wallet. Separate areas to stash my sunglasses, chargers, keys and other important items I travel with are important, too.

Keeping the above features in mind, I reviewed five backpacks ranging in price and style. Here's the round-up.

Related: Here's what to pack in a carry-on bag every time you travel

Patagonia — Black Hole 32L Travel Pack

What I liked

The Patagonia Black Hole 32L Travel Pack is completely constructed with 100% recycled materials, including the body fabric, lining and webbing. It comes in a handful of colors — gold, red, black and gray/blue. The shinier shell has a polyurethane coating that makes it water-resistant.

This bag is also Fair Trade Certified™ sewn (as are all Patagonia products). Since the program launched in 2014, it has impacted more than 75,000 workers in 10 countries.

The lightweight bag packs flat and is very flexible. At first glance, I wondered if it would be structured enough to protect my laptop. However, the padded pocket worked well and fits most 15-inch laptops. The pocket is also slightly elevated from the bottom of the bag, which can protect your laptop if the bottom of your bag gets wet.

Both my 28- and 40-ounce insulated water bottles fit easily in the side pockets.

I tested this bag (along with the Away F.A.R. backpack) during a recent long-haul trip to South Africa. I packed:

• My 13-inch laptop.
• A 28-ounce insulated water bottle (filled once I passed through security).
• Compression socks.
• Travel pillow.
• Cross-body bag containing my passport, credit cards and money.
• A small reporter's notebook.
• Two paperback books.
• Makeup bag.
• Toiletry bag.
• A large Ziploc bag filled with snacks (protein bars, as well as bags of almonds and trail mix.

Filled, the backpack weighed just under 10 pounds.

I was impressed with the number of items I was able to pack. This backpack is like the clown car of backpacks. The sturdy straps held it in place and it never felt cumbersome to carry.

The pocket section of the bag zips open so you can lay it flat for going through the TSA scanner. (If you have Global Entry or TSA PreCheck , you won't need to worry about that, though.)

I liked the two rows of daisy chain-style loops on the outside of the bag. It's good for hanging bulky items or things you don't want to get crushed inside.

If you plan to long-distance hike with this bag, there's a hole at the top for the hose of your hydration pack.

Other considerations

The Patagonia Black Hole Travel Pack doesn't offer RFID protection. However, if the wallet that holds your ID and credit cards has the RFID protection feature, you should be covered.

Although this bag has an air mesh back panel for increased ventilation, other reviewers commented that the airflow wasn't substantial enough to prevent a sweaty back. I didn't encounter that issue. This bag doesn't include a hip belt, which could provide more stability. I typically don't use hip belts on backpacks, so I didn't mind it missing here.

Sizing: 16.93 by 7.87 by 23.03 inches, 1.1 pounds (empty).

Price: Around $249 on Amazon.

Arlo Skye — The Backpack

The brand's luggage line consistently garners high praise from reviewers, so I figured its one backpack offering, The Backpack , would be pretty solid. Color options are mint and black. It arrived tucked in a large reusable drawstring bag that included a handy silica gel pack, one of my essential travel accessories .

I tested a black backpack. I liked the bag's sleek design and leather top handle and trim. The water-resistant material is a nylon and polyester blend.

A tiny zip pocket at the top of the bag is the ideal spot to stash my earbuds, charger or a small pair of sunglasses. If you don't have a clunky set of keys, they may fit as well. I set off my car alarm attempting to shove mine into the small pocket.

The front section has a zippable mesh pocket, and two RFID-lined slip pockets for secure storage of your credit cards, ID and passport. A decent-size (9.5 by 7 inches) front pocket with a zipper provides easy access to your smartphone, keys and other items. There was room enough to store my Kindle (without its cover). There's also an attached key leash.

A middle section provides an open pocket for a tablet or iPad, and two smaller pockets — one of them, an expandable mesh. The third (back) portion of the bag is a padded laptop compartment that fits up to a 15" laptop.

The backpack also features a wide back sleeve that fits securely over the handle of carry-on luggage.

If you need a backpack that could serve as your one and only carry-on, this may not work for you. It's roomy enough for basics and a minimalist packer could possibly fit a weekend's worth of clothes and essentials in it. However, I think it would be a better option for your daily commute, weekend road trips or day trips.

The water bottle pockets were kind of useless to me. The pockets don't expand and there is no give in the material, so you're somewhat limited in bottle size.

It barely fit my 28-ounce insulated water bottle (I couldn't push the bottle all the way to the bottom of the pocket). However, you would probably be fine with a purchased 16-ounce plastic bottle of water.

I don't like storing my water bottle inside my backpack because of potential leaks (and water damage to my laptop), so I ended up carrying my 40-ounce bottle separately. There is a metal hook on one side of the bag so you could attach an insulated bottle to it with a carabiner.

Sizing: 11.8 by 7.5 by 17.7, 2.1 pounds (empty).

Price: $250.

Away — F.A.R. Backpack 26L

Away has a sizable fan base ( including TPG staffers ) thanks to its stylish hard-side rolling luggage.

F.A.R. (For All Routes) is the brand's recently launched outdoor line. The collection is designed with frequent travelers and outdoor adventurers in mind. Bags in the collection are constructed with lightweight 100% recycled polyester, and are abrasion- and water-resistant. The zippers and webbing are also made with recycled materials.

I tested the 26L backpack . The bag arrived wrapped in a plant-based compostable plastic bag, which is in line with the brand's push toward offering more sustainable and environmentally friendly products.

It's available in five colors — black, vivid blue, red-orange, burgundy and (dark) green.

As I mentioned above, I tested this bag on my return long-haul flight from South Africa. On the trip home, it contained everything I packed in the Patagonia backpack, as well as two small bags of souvenirs I snagged at the airport on the way out.

Since it's a bit smaller than the Patagonia backpack I carried first, I was concerned it wouldn't hold everything I started my trip with. I was pleasantly surprised it did with no issues.

The two side pockets for water bottles are roomy. The features list reads that the pockets fit up to 32-ounce bottles, but my 40-ounce insulated bottle fits easily (though I traveled with a 28-ounce bottle).

This backpack had lots of pockets and hidden storage. The front compartment has interior slip pockets for easy access to small essentials like your wallet, smartphone, passport, a book or two, chargers and other items. It was a slightly tighter fit once filled, but I suspected it would be given the size difference.

The main compartment features a larger slip pocket for your laptop. The padding wasn't quite as thick as the Patagonia laptop pocket, but it was enough that I didn't worry about it being damaged.

Two hidden zipper pockets on each side are so well concealed I wouldn't have found them if I hadn't read the features card included with the backpack.

You can attach your keys or other items to the bag's wide front webbing loops. Also, the thick backpack trolley strap slips easily onto your luggage handle.

In addition to the backpack I tested, the F.A.R. line includes three sizes of duffles, a 45L backpack, a water bottle bag, a packing cube, a zippered pouch and a messenger bag.

Of the five backpacks I tested, this was probably my favorite. Based on my experience with this brand, I will likely add more F.A.R. products to my travel arsenal.

Sizing: 19 by 12.6 by 7.7 inches, .78 pounds (empty).

Price: $130.

Solo Re:Claim

One of the products in Solo's Re:Cycled collection, the Solo Re:Claim is made from Polyethylene terephthalate (PET), a type of strong, lightweight and 100% recyclable plastic. The collection is reasonably priced and includes additional backpacks, totes, rolling cases, laptop sleeves and other products (all constructed from recyclable plastic).

The bag I tested was heather-grey. It also comes in burgundy and navy (though the navy backpacks were unavailable at the time of writing this).

The backpack is water-resistant and comes with a five-year limited warranty. It features a smaller padded front zippable pocket with compartments for pens, cards, your phone and a tablet, as well as a small clip for your keys. A roomy fully-padded compartment fits 11- to 15.6-inch laptops.

There are mesh pockets on each side for water bottles. Although the pockets give a little, I struggled to squeeze in my 28-ounce insulated bottle. Once I got it in, though, I felt confident it wouldn't fall out.

A tag was included in the packaging with information about Solo's partnership with the National Forest Foundation. The company plants trees with every bag sold from its Recycled Collection.

I didn't really care for the two handles at the top of the backpack. They were located on each side of the opening with a wrap-like velcro to connect them. It was kind of annoying to have to take it apart every time I wanted to unzip the bag.

I usually travel with a 40-ounce bottle, which did not fit in the side pockets.

Sizing: 16.5 by 12.25 by 6.75 inches, 1.2 pounds (empty).

Price: About $67.26 on Amazon.

Briggs & Riley — @Work Large Cargo Backpack

This backpack is ideal for work commuters and business travelers who need a sleek and professional-looking bag to carry their business essentials. It's also roomy enough to pack clothes and toiletries you'd need for an overnight stay if needed.

The hefty price tag might intimidate you. However, when you consider the company's lifetime replacement warranty and consistently positive customer reviews, I feel like it's worth the investment.

It has an interior organizer, main and laptop compartments, a durable fabric lining, an RFID-blocking pocket with two hidden credit card pockets that hold a wallet and passport.

There are also three elastic slip pockets with leather tabs to organize smaller items such as cords and USB drives and two more slip pockets to store other items.

Its top cargo pocket on the front panel holds travel accessories. It features two elastic pen loops, a large main compartment, a full-length slip pocket in the main compartment for storing folders or files, as well as two elastic pockets in the main compartment for storing cables and chargers.

It also includes a laptop compartment with a padded sleeve, plus a padded tablet pocket in the laptop compartment.

The exterior is 1600D ballistic nylon that resists wear, moisture, dirt and abrasion. The front panel also has a leather nameplate on the front (that you can monogram), a deep zip pocket on the front panel for easy access to items such as sunglasses or a smartphone, top-grain leather carry handles and a gusseted side u-zip pocket with an elastic band for a water bottle.

The backpack has adjustable padded straps, an aerated mesh back padding and a slip-through back panel that allows the backpack to slide over a luggage handle and bottom corner guards to protect the backpack from wear and tear.

It's very comfortable. I'm surprised at how light it feels given its large size. I tested it during my daily office commute. It holds my laptop, charger, wallet, phone and an extra pair of shoes.

I also appreciated the light contrasting shade of the bag's inside lining — it's so much easier to find my items.

Color choices are limited to black and dark grey. However, if you're using it for daily work or business travel, you want something that looks professional and this definitely fits the bill.

Additionally, there aren't any real external gear attachment options. The bag does include a removable luggage tag, which is nice.

Sizing: 19 by 15 by 8 inches, 3.2 pounds (empty).

Price: $379.

Related: What your luggage brand says about you

Bottom line

A well-organized and sturdy travel backpack is worth its weight in gold.

If you expect a lot out of your bag and want it to last through all your future travels, you may want to spend a little more on it. If you travel occasionally and just need a backpack for convenience, lower-priced options should suffice for your needs.

Before you buy your next backpack (or other travel essentials), check out TPG's guides to airline and shopping portals, as well as the best credit cards for online shopping. That way, the gear you buy for your next trip can also help you pay for it.

Do you have a backpack you can't do without? Let us know in the TPG Lounge or email us at [email protected]. We're always on the lookout for products that make travel easier and we would love to hear from you.

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

Our simulations reveal which bags you can count on

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

TripSavvy / Chloe Jeong

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

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

Final Verdict

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

• What to Look For

Why Trust TripSavvy

Best overall, cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack.

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

Super durable material

Very comfortable with multiple carry methods

Lighter and more rugged than previous models

Nothing yet

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

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

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

TripSavvy / Jhett Thompson

Best Overall, Runner-Up

Osprey fairview 40.

Quite spacious while remaining carry-on sized

Keeps belongings secure

Good padding and weight distribution

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

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

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

Best Budget

Vancropak 40l travel backpack.

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

Great for a short-to-medium-length trip

Could double as a business travel pack

Feature packed and user friendly

Lacks tech compartment

Cloth material could get dirty easily

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

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

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

Asenlin 40L Travel Backpack

Functional straps

Multiple ways to carry

Not too weighty

Our tester didn’t love the style

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

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

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

Best for Business Travel

Nomatic travel bag.

• Comfort 3 /5

Fits about a week’s worth of items

Loads of internal organization

Comes with an additional laundry bag

Uncomfortable to carry at times

Some scuff marks after tossing around

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

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

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

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

Best Multi-use

Peak design travel backpack 45l.

• Value 4.5 /5

Excellent capacity

Easy to handle

Thoughtful storage solutions

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

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

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

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

TripSavvy / Conor Ralph

Most Comfortable

Topo designs global travel bag 40l.

Topo Designs

Excellent internal organization

Many different carrying options

Great for long travel days

Could be roomier

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

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

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

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

Best Splurge

Bellroy transit backpack plus.

Flat opening made for easy packing

Comfortable to carry

Long lasting

Minimal internal organization

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

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

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

Samsonite Silhouette 17 Backpack

• Design 4 /5
• Durability 4 /5

Suitcase-like opening allows easy access

Eco-friendly materials

Suitable for long travel days

Internal organization may be overcomplicated for some

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

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

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

Best for Techies

Thule subterra backpack 34l.

Functional and looks good

Bag included for dirty laundry

Portable charger

Not the most comfortable

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

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

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

Best for Storage

Mystery ranch mission rover.

Mystery Ranch

Sturdy with grab handles around the pack

Well-designed internal storage

Different ways to carry

A bit heavy

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What to Look For in a Carry-on Backpack

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The 9 Best Travel Toiletry Bags of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The Best Daypacks for Hiking of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 14 Best Backpack Brands of 2024

The 10 Best Anti-Theft Backpacks of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 11 Best Hardside Luggage Bags of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 12 Best Carry-On Luggage of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 9 Best Beach Chairs of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 8 Best Duffel Bags of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 9 Best Travel Strollers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 8 Best Lightweight Luggage of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 8 Best Bags and Backpacks for Disney of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

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

The 8 Best Backpack Coolers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 8 Best Luggage Sets of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 11 Best Travel Money Belts of 2024

The Best Travel Camera Cases and Backpacks of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

• Multi-Day Hikes
• Gear Reviews

9 Best Backpacks With Detachable Daypacks

You may have been in a situation where you’ve needed both a larger backpack as well as a smaller daypack on the same trip. There are times when you might go on an overnight hike and then only need a smaller daypack to head out and explore the surrounding areas from camp. This is when a backpack with a detachable daypack is the perfect solution. It means that you can carry all your gear into a campsite but then have the ability to head out on shorter hikes with just a smaller bag to carry a few hiking essentials . 

This guide will break down all the styles and features that are available with detachable daypacks, as well as, what you need to think about before purchasing one.

Table of Contents

What exactly is a backpack with a detachable daypack?

A backpack with a detachable daypack is in many ways similar to a regular backpack. It enables you to carry everything that you need for a hiking trip. However, the main difference is that it comes with a detachable or integrated daypack. This means that as well as a larger backpack you also have the option of a smaller pack that can be detached and used individually. 

You are effectively getting two backpacks integrated into one, making the pack more versatile and more convenient for a variety of adventures. It’s ideal for long hiking trips and when you might be camping somewhere but plan on taking short hikes and day trips. 

However, the detachable daypack is usually more lightweight and less structured than most regular daypacks. This enables it to be more easily integrated into a larger backpack but means it’s not as sturdy for challenging day trips.

Main features of backpacks with detachable daypacks

Some of the main features of a detachable daypack are similar to those on a regular backpack. Features like straps, pockets and overall comfort and fit are the same on any kind of pack and you should consider these features like you would when choosing any daypack . 

However, there are additional qualities and things that you need to consider when deciding which backpack and detachable daypack is best for you. Most of these additional features are focused specifically on the detachable daypack part of the design.

Different styles of detachable backpacks

The main feature of these detachable backpacks is that they can come in a range of styles and the way that they integrate into the larger backpack can be different. There are three main styles of detachable backpacks. 

A normal daypack – This is more like a regular daypack that has two shoulder straps but is more lightweight and small enough to integrate into a larger backpack.

A sling pack – This is a bag that is carried diagonally on your back with a single sling strap over your shoulder.

A bum bag – This is a bag that is carried around your waist, similar to a sling pack in design but clips around like a belt. 

When deciding which style of detachable backpack you should go with, it’s important to consider what you will mostly use it for. A normal daypack design is the best option if you plan on doing light hikes and when you need to comfortably carry a number of essential hiking items . Whereas, a sling pack or bum bag might be more appropriate for easy strolls or simple day trips as these options usually have a smaller capacity. 

Different integration options

There are also different options when it comes to how the extra pack is attached and integrated into the larger backpack. There are generally three different ways that the small daypack is joined, and this will depend on your preference:

Attached to the front – This is usually the option when integrating a normal daypack and is usually zipped or attached to the front panel of the larger backpack. This is often the only option if you’re looking for a bigger, more structured daypack. However, it can sometimes make the overall pack more awkwardly shaped when carried together.

Detachable top lid – This option is when the top lid of the larger backpack is detachable and transforms into its own individual bag. This is a very convenient option for backpacking and hiking, because the detachable daypack doesn’t alter the shape of the overall pack and it can easily be removed without having to empty most of your contents.

Internal sleeve – This option is when the larger backpack has a water bladder sleeve that can be pulled out and converted into another bag. The internal sleeve option means that it doesn’t directly offer extra volume space in the larger backpack but it’s a more compact choice if you prefer a smaller backpack. 

Volume and size

Similarly to most daypack, there are many different volumes available. However, the main trend is that the larger backpack is from around 50L and up, while the detachable daypack is usually between 10L to 20L.

This is an important consideration when deciding which one is right for you. If you’re going to be using it for summer hikes and easy side trips, then a smaller size backpack with a 10L daypack will be just fine. However, for more challenging treks where you might want to have a more substantial daypack to carry more essentials, then you should look at the larger options. 

Prices of different detachable daypacks 

The price might influence your decision when purchasing a backpack with a detachable daypack. The price usually varies depending on size and brand name. Brands that are known for their high-quality gear like Osprey are often more expensive than others, but if you’re willing to invest in good gear it will likely last you much longer. Saying that, in general, backpacks with detachable daypacks are pretty expensive purchases, with their large size and complex features making them a higher end gear type. 

Have questions about multi-day hikes?

Sign up for a free Hiking 101 e-course

Categories of backpacks with detachable daypacks

Best overall detachable daypack.

Osprey Aether 70

This is one of the best all-round backpacking options. This 70L Osprey pack is perfect for backcountry trips and challenging multiday treks. The anti-gravity harness and mesh back panel means it’s super comfortable and breathable even after a full day on the trail. The detachable daypack is a removable top lid that transforms into a great little daypack. It has a few pockets and some light padding, which is more than what most detachable daypacks have from other brands.

The only negative aspect to this pack is that it’s quite heavy at over 5 lbs before packing. This might be a bit too much especially for easier hikes or traveling, but the sturdy and heavy-duty frame is perfect for tough adventures. 

• Capacity: 70L
• Daypack capacity: 10L
• Daypack style: Backpack
• Daypack integration: Removable top lid
• Weight: 5lbs 3.4 oz.
• Hip belt: Yes
• Rain cover: No
• Frame: Internal frame
• Pack access: Top, bottom and panel
• Number of pockets: 7
• Removable top lid converts to daypack
• Trekking pole, sleeping pad and ice tool attachments
• Lightweight mesh back panel
• Moldable hip belt with zippered pockets
• Separate zippered sleeping bag compartment

Best detachable daypack for hiking

Gregory Baltoro 65

This is a very great option that is similar to the Osprey Aether. It’s a fantastic hiking and backpacking companion with a very well fitted design and comfortable harness system that also distributes weight evenly. There are plenty of pockets with nine external, making it very easy to organize and separate your gear. 

The detachable daypack comes in the form of a removable hydration sleeve. It’s not quite as good as the option that comes in the Osprey Aether, with only one side pocket and a drawstring opening. Still, this is a great option for your next hiking adventure. 

• Capacity: 65L
• Daypack integration: Removable hydration sleeve
• Weight: 4 lbs. 13 oz.
• Rain cover: Yes
• Pack access: Top and panel
• Number of pockets: 9
• Removable hydration sleeve converts into a daypack
• A soft, pre-curved harness and hip belt with foam padding for a perfect fit
• Breathable back panel 
• Full body U-shaped zip main opening on front of bag for easy unloading
• Hipbelt pockets with zippers and sunglasses pocket on shoulder harness 
• Zippered bottom sleeping compartment

Deuter Aviant Voyager 65

This detachable backpack option from Deuter is perfect for both hiking and travelling adventures. The main backpack is ergonomically designed to fit closely with your body, while still keeping you dry while moving. It has Deuter’s quality internal frame system that keeps the weight distributed even with heavy loads.

The removable daypack on this option is attached on the front of the main pack, inside its own front pouch. This makes it great for having a smaller daypack option for short hikes or even carry-on luggage, but also means that you can leave it at home if you don’t need it. The only downside is that having it attached onto the front can make the pack slightly awkward in shape compared to more integrated options. 

• Daypack integration: Attached to the front
• Weight: 6lbs 3.8 oz.
• Pack access: Top, front and bottom
• Number of pockets: 3
• Detachable daypack tucked into front of pack
• Contact back system that allows ventilation and support
• Lid compartment with zip pockets
• Front zip access into pack
• Separate bottom compartment for sleeping bag
• Padded hipbelt with zippered pockets

Best budget detachable daypack

REI Co-op Traverse 70

The REI Traverse backpack is a great sturdy and comfortable option. The pack is well built for hiking adventures with a high-quality compression system to help improve your balance with a heavy load. It’s got plenty of pockets and various access points into the pack, making it great for those who like organizing their gear. The top lid detaches itself and converts into a backpack or sling bag, depending on your needs. This is a very versatile option that not many other detachable backpacks have. It’s also got plenty of pockets and a bit of padding for added comfort. 

It’s still a decent investment for a hiking backpack at over $200 but it’s certainly more affordable than the other options in this guide.

• Daypack style: Backpack or sling bag
• Weight: 4 lbs 14 oz.
• Pack access: Top, side and bottom
• Number of pockets: 11
• Removable top lid converts into a backpack or sling bag for day trips
• Hybrid trampoline back panel conforms to your back for a comfortable and breathable fit
• Interchangeable contoured hipbelt with sculpted foam padding to hug your body
• Multiple exterior pockets for organizing gear
• Integrated rain cover to keep your pack dry

Mountain Warehouse Traveller 60+20

The Mountain Warehouse Traveller is the cheaper backpack option on this list. It’s still a well-made and comfortable option for those looking for a larger backpack and daypack combination for long trips.

The main 60L backpack is perfect for all your larger items, with access both from the front and the bottom. The 20L daypack attaches to the front of the pack with buckles. The daypack is great for day hikes, with side drink bottle holders and front pockets for stashing essentials. 

It’s definitely the best buy for under $200.

• Capacity: 80L
• Daypack capacity: 20L
• Daypack integration: Attached to front
• Weight: 5 lbs 3 oz.
• Number of pockets: 4
• Concealed rain cover at the bottom, so you can still travel and adventure in all weather conditions
• Adjustable back harness system to suit your height for the most comfortable fit
• Detachable daypack from the front, so you can head out on day trips easily with all your essentials
• Two carry handles so you can either wear it on your back or carry it through the airport like a duffle bag

Best women-specific detachable daypack

Osprey Ariel 55

This is the ideal backpacking companion for women . It’s specifically designed for shorter torsos and curvier figures, making it a great fit for women’s bodies. It’s perfect for carrying heavy loads with a high-quality anti-gravity suspension system for weight distribution and comfort. Its top lid detaches into a great daypack that you can use on day hikes or excursions around camp. It’s one of the best detachable daypacks available, with pockets and light padding on the straps. 

The only downside with this pack is that it’s quite heavy, at just over 4 lbs before packing. This means that it’s very sturdy and well-built but unfortunately adds to the overall weight of your pack.

• Capacity: 55L
• Weight: 4 lbs. 14 oz. 
• Pack access: Top, bottom and side

Thule Landmark 60L

An ideal traveling backpack for women, the Thule Landmark has all the extra features you didn’t know you needed while backpacking. The 60L pack is designed specifically for women, with a 40L main compartment and 20L daypack attached.

It has many internal pockets and dividers for organizing your gear and clothing, including a SafeZone compartment for valuables, a laptop storage sleeve, and zippered side pockets. The 20L daypack is especially great for day hikes and heading out on lengthy day trips, with plenty of room for all your essentials.

• Capacity: 60L
• Weight: 4 lbs. 
• Pack access: Top and front
• Detachable 20L daypack at the front of the pack
• Zippered side pockets for storing drink bottles or other items
• SafeZone hidden compartment for valuables
• Hipbelts and shoulder straps can be stowed away when not in use or while traveling
• Removable top lid converts to DayLid daypack
• Pockets on hip belt with zippers
• Zippered sleeping bag compartment with divider
• Large stretch mesh pockets on front
• Trekking pole and ice tool attachments 

Best detachable daypack for traveling

Osprey Farpoint 55

This neat and versatile backpack from Osprey is the perfect one for traveling. The main backpack comes with Osprey’s quality suspension and ventilation on the back panel, making it very comfortable for walking around with a full pack. It has a unique duffel bag-like opening instead of a top-loading style that means you can easily pack your things. The daypack is also a reasonable size at 13L and conveniently attached onto the front, making it the perfect addition to day trips on your travels or as carry-on luggage. 

It’s the best travel backpack but would not be ideal for many hiking trips, with the lack of a sturdier and more fitted frame. It also hasn’t got any external pockets making it inconvenient for stashing small items or a water bottle. 

• Daypack capacity: 13L
• Weight: 4lbs
• Pack access: Front
• Number of pockets: 1
• Detachable daypack on front with designated laptop compartment and tablet sleeve
• Large, lockable U-zip duffle-style easy access to main compartment
• Stow-away back panel, shoulder straps and hip belt with zippered rear flap for protection when checking in at the airport
• Breathable mesh back panel and padded hip belt

Deuter Avient Access Pro 60 Another great option for traveling, the Deuter Access Pro is a functional and stylish travel backpack that comes with a detachable daypack. Bring a 60L pack, it’s perfect for long trips where you need extra room for your belongings. 

One of the best design features is that the main compartment folds out so you have great access from the front like a regular suitcase. The integrated daypack is 10L which is great for day trips around town, and when not in use, it easily stows away in the front of the main backpack. However, it doesn’t have many external pockets, which makes it difficult for stashing small items on the go.

• Weight: 5.5lbs
• Detachable daypack on front with padded shoulder straps 
• Easy access to main compartment from the front with full zips opening right up
• Contact back system and fully adjustable straps make it comfortable for all different people

A backpack with a detachable daypack is the ultimate option for all your backpacking adventures. It offers the convenience and versatility of having a larger backpack for overnight trips, with the added bonus of having a detachable daypack for any shorter hikes or side trips. There’s plenty of different designs and integration styles to suit whatever your needs may be.

Add comment Cancel reply

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

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

The Best Convertible Backpack Purse for Travel as Recommended by Readers

FASHION , Handbags , Travel Accessories

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

When sightseeing or navigating an airport or train station, toting around a purse backpack combo affords a lot of flexibility since they can be worn multiple ways which makes them highly versatile and the different wearing options can help avoid shoulder pain as well! See these reader recommendations for the best women’s convertible backpack purse !

Convertible Purse Backpack Ideas

Table of contents.

Multi-use bags that can be converted into a backpack, tote, or crossbody make an awesome addition to your capsule wardrobe !

They not only offer different carrying options which can alleviate discomfort on the shoulders and lower back but also provide variety in outfit looks—from casual to elevated—check out these top reader picks for a functional and cute convertible travel backpack that could be gracing your adventures soon!

Reader Recommendations for Best Backpack Convertible Purse

Fjallraven Kanken Tote Backpack

Top Reader Pick: Fjallraven Kanken Backpack Tote Combo (With 13” Laptop Sleeve)

The Fjallraven Kanken was voted as the ​​ best convertible tote backpack by readers and is an all-time top seller! So versatile and functional, the webbed straps can be worn over the shoulder or use the two straps to wear as a typical backpack.

Made of sturdy fabric, this puppy is dirt and water-resistant, and easy to clean—just wipe it down! A top loader, you can fit a 13” laptop or tablet in a padded sleeve and there are side and front pockets to organize all your essentials.

One reader proclaims this as her go-to, “ I’ve owned my Kanken for two years now. I love it; it’s my only bag for weekend getaways and my personal item for every type of trip I go on.” While another TFG community member shares her family’s experience with it, “My daughter had hers all over Italy, France, and England. She had no problems carrying it and it’s super cute too.” Buy it here!

The Sak Ventura II Convertible Backpack

The Sak Ventura II Backpack Crossbody Purse (With 13” Laptop Sleeve)

Readers time and again recommend The Sak Ventura as a stellar backpack crossbody bag for it’s luxe look and different ways to wear it, either as a across the shoulder or slung on your back. Travelers say this is great for European museums, since backpacks are prohibited most of the time! A reader also highlights its safety features, “ Cute bag, and someone mentioned recently that the top fold over bags are a little more secure against pickpockets.”

With the antique silver hardware and lots of pockets for organization, you can also use this as a business travel bag as it fits a 13” laptop as well. There’s even a cute pocket to store pens (who doesn’t need one in the border check line?). Another TFGer describes its usability, “ The Sak Ventura backpack is great. Converts to cross body, very roomy but not overwhelming.” Buy it here!

Sakroots Eco-Twill Loyola Convertible Backpack

Sakroots Loyola Convertible Crossbody Backpack Purse (With Laptop Compartment)

One reader who visited New York City explains why she adores this backpack crossbody convertible purse from Sakroots, “ I didn’t want to spend a fortune, wanted it to be somewhat sleek, feel great, be lightweight, not knock people out when maneuvering crowds, have side drink pouches, and a compartment on the back side that would be difficult for a pickpocket to easily access. I saw this one and knew it fit the bill!!”

Made of eco-friendly but durable materials that are stain and water resistant, this has a ton of storage pockets, a laptop compartment, side pockets for water or drinks, and even a back zipper pocket perfect for keeping your passport and boarding pass tucked away. Giving off a boho vibe with the colorful tassles, this is a functional, yet fun bag to carry around! Buy it here!

Travelon Convertible Backpack Crossbody Bag and Tote

Travelon Anti-Theft Convertible Bag Backpack (With RFID Protection)

A highly popular brand with TFG readers as one sa ys, “ Love Travelon… have four of their bags!” And we tend to agree, they make amazing bags for travel! This cute and polished convertible handbag has slash-proof mesh panels and straps, as well as RFID blocking inside pockets and compartments that lock, making this a must-get for travel in Europe!

It also has numerous ways to organize, with zippered and slip pockets and it also has a strap to slip over luggage. But the main attraction is how many ways you can wear this bag—three to be exact—as a tote, backpack, or crossbody!

Another reader echoes her love for these, “ I have several Travelon bags and really like them because of how the zippers lock. Gives me peace of mind when I’m someplace new.” Buy it here!

We’ve rounded up the best anti theft travel bags for women , and our readers have voted for their favorite styles!

PacSafe Citysafe CX 17L Anti Theft Backpack

Pacsafe Citysafe Anti-Theft Convertible Laptop Backpack (With 16” Laptop Sleeve)

Long-time readers and female travelers adore Pacsafe for producing stylish yet excellent anti-theft bags. The Citysafe 17L convertible laptop bag is definitely a contender in both looks and functionality with slash-proof material and padded shoulder straps which can be secured to a table leg to keep it anchored down. The interlocking zippers, laptop padded sleeve (can fit a 16” Macbook Pro), RFID blocking pockets, and expandable compartments for an umbrella or water bottle make this an anti-theft and organizational dream!

Top it off with the carrying options via the top handles, lengthen the strap into a crossbody or sling, or use it as a backpack, along with the handy luggage sleeve, as well as the sleek look and gold hardware means you’ll look good and navigate easily through security or walking the streets of Paris.

A TFG reader shares, “ It was great for my SE Asia trip. I used it in backpack mode for touring and crossbody mode at night.” While another says, “I used it in Greece and Italy and it was great. In purse mode, I got into all museums except the Borghese Gallery as no purses were allowed at all in there.” Buy it here!

Osprey Arcane Tote Backpack

Osprey Arcane Convertible Backpack Tote (With 15” Laptop Sleeve)

If you’ve been a reader of TFG for a while, you may have noticed I’m incredibly brand loyal. Osprey is a brand that first impressed me on my 9-month round-the-world trip with the Aura 65L , and it’s been my go-to travel and outdoor gear brand ever since! I’ve also had the I had the 55L Farpoint and used it constantly.

So, it’s amazing to see readers hopping on the bandwagon with the Osprey Arcane tote backpack convertible bag ! One TFG reader says about this, “ It makes a great carry-on and laptop bag, and it has a lot of structure.” This is a top loader that folds over so offers a bit more security, with front pockets and interior ones to hold your essentials. It can also hold a 15” laptop in its padded sleeve.

The top handles can be slung over the shoulder or tucked away when not in use. Marketed as an outdoor bag, it could be fine for light hikes but likely nothing hardcore. However, it’s still made with the brand’s signature durable fabric and has a DWR finish to repel water. Buy it here!

Sherpani Soleil Anti Theft Backpack

Sherpani Soleil Anti-Theft Nylon Convertible Backpack (With 15” Laptop Sleeve)

In recent years, the Sherpani Soleil 3 in 1convertible backpack has become a reader favorite! One exclaims, “ I used it for four weeks in Europe this summer. Loved it!” This durable and water-resistant bag has numerous compartments to hold anything from a phone to a water bottle, or a small makeup bag, and there’s a laptop sleeve as well as a luggage sleeve.

More budget-oriented than some Pacsafe products, this comes loaded with anti-theft features that include anti-slash fabric, zip locks, RFID blocking protection, and a looping lock system for chairs or table legs. The 3 in 1 function means you can wear it as a crossbody, use it as a tote, or backpack, making it super versatile!

And the way it looks? This TFG reader doesn’t hold back, “Wow! It’s beautiful, versatile, and affordable!” Buy it here!

Find out what our readers have to say about their Sherpani bags in this review !

Baggallini 3-in-1 Convertible Backpack With RFID Phone Wristlet

Baggallini Convertible Tote Bag Backpack Crossbody – 3 In 1 (With RFID Wristlet)

Known for making durable, sleek, and timeless luggage options, Baggalini has been a long-time reader favorite. Made of water-resistant fabric, this cute and unique backpack purse can be organized easily with multiple side, exterior, and interior pockets, and you’ll have tons of wearing options, from a chic tote, practical cross-body, or a hands-free backpack.

One TFG reader share a travel experience, “ I just took it on a trip from the USA to Scotland. If held a change of clothes, Kindle, snacks, a 16 oz water bottle, some toiletries, and more! It fit perfectly under the seat on all my planes and was easy to get around with. It has lots of nice pockets.” And as a bonus, the bag comes with an adorably matching wristlet that can be a purse organizer or an evening bag for a night out. Buy it here!

Vera Bradley Convertible Handbag Backpack

Vera Bradley Convertible Backpack Handbag

As one reader announces, “I have loved Vera Bradley for years!” The Vera Bradley convertible bags can go over one shoulder, act as a tote, or be a backpack and make an excellent option for a personal item or carry on backpack.

There are so many pockets (zip, cargo, and more!) to store your items and there’s even a shoe compartment. This bag features 2 slip and 1 zip pocket on the exterior along with 2 slip and 1 zip pocket on the inside – keeping you perfectly organized. A TFG reader says she “loves this bag and used it as a personal item many times!” Buy it here!

Lo & Sons The Rowledge

Lo & Sons Rowledge Travel Tote Backpack (With 13-14” Laptop Sleeve)

While its price is higher than other bags, the Lo & Sons Rowledge tote backpack laptop option is specially designed for travel, especially for business travelers. Many readers adore their O.G. 2.0 travel weekender tote bag , but if you’re looking for a convertible option, this could fit the bill in quality and functionality.

One reader says, “I find that it fits my needs really well for a versatile work and travel option, and I love the style!” The Rowledge is a durable, yet sleek-looking nylon fabric with water-resistant zippers and it has multiple pockets to make it easy to organize pens, phonoes, wallet, and keys, including a side pocket for a water bottle. It’s also available in a small and large size, with a few inchies difference between the two. The large size can fit a 14” laptop comfortably, while the smaller size can fit about a 13”.

The Jaquard interior lining is simply luxurious and you can use the trolley sleeve to slide over the handles of your carryon suitcase. One satisfied TFG readers shares their travel experience with this backpack, “It’s structured, but still soft enough to cram things in when I’m flying, and I love the feet on the bottom, keeps it upright and it doesn’t get super dirty. Tthe look is very clean and professional, while still feeling high-end but not overly feminine and it fits well under an airplane seat without taking up leg room.” Buy it here!

Find out why our readers love their Lo & Sons bags in this review !

Best Budget Convertible Backpacks

ECOSUSI Vegan Leather Convertible Backpack Bag

Ecosusi Vegan Leather Convertible Backpack Shoulder Bag (With 14” Laptop Sleeve)

Voted as the best travel purse backpack for its usefulness and budget price , this cute Ecosusi bag can become a tote, backpack, or be worn over the shoulder. Superb as a personal item or business trip bag, it has a main compartment with a padded 14” laptop sleeve and numerous pockets to organize notebooks, pens, makeup, including a secret zippered pocket in the back for a discreet storage spot.

It’s also a terrific eco option as it’s made from vegan leather and the tassel and sleek lines make it a combination of “ great quality, style, and functionality!” One user gives a mini-review, “ I like the comfortable feel of this bag. The inside has plenty of room as the bag is quite deep. The material looks like leather but it’s not. The price was right.” Buy it here!

TFG readers also love the Ecosusi Weekender Bag, though not convertible, it’s great for overnight or short trips; read our review here !

UTO Backpack Purse Leather Vegan With Tassel

UTO Vegan Leather Convertible Shoulder Bag /Backpack (With 13” Laptop Sleeve)

A wonderful budget option that’s said to be an organizer’s happy place, the vegan leather UTO convertible handbags have a plethora of interior and exterior pockets, along with a side one for water, as well as a padded sleeve inside that holds a tablet or laptop.

A TFG reader gives a thorough description of her immediate experience with this bag, “ I did a quick test pack today to see how much it will hold. I squeezed in a ton of toiletries, chargers, and entertainment as well as sandals, a maxi skirt, and tank top. The faux leather is very pliable and there are so many pockets, including a back zipper for my phone and small wallet. The side pockets are super deep and secure.”

For carrying options, it has a top handle, two adjustable back straps, and one shoulder strap, so there are many ways to use it—a very chic and practical must-have! Buy it here!

LXY Vegan Leather Vintage Backpack Purse

LXY Faux Leather Convertible Backpack Laptop Bag (With 14” Laptop Sleeve)

For some of the best backpack purses , the LXY laptop backpack is a popular choice. It has six compartments that include a laptop sleeve (14”) and two anti-theft pockets hidden nicely away (one in the back and one in front flap). You can adjust the straps up to 45” to wear like a shoulder bag, too!

And a cool feature, you can adjust the width with a hidden button, so if you’re not carrying much, you can compact it. One traveler says, “ I’m a huge backpack lover and didn’t want to drop a ton of money on something that’s going to get tossed around. I seriously love this bag. I love the way it looks and the utility of it, especially the zip pocket on the inside—I’d feel safe keeping my passport in there. ”

With its vintage look and sleek hardware, considering this is a no-brainer! Buy it here!

CLUCI Backpack Purse Faux Leather

CLUCI Faux Leather Stylish Backpack Purse

If you don’t do a lot of business travel or prefer to travel with a tablet instead of a laptop, the CLUCI is a backpack and purse in one and is the very image of luxe (and practical)! With a huge main compartment and lots of zippered areas, you can store everything from a hotel room keycard, umbrella, cell phone, water bottle, and tablet. This also has an anti-theft design, as the closure is in the back and the back zipper has a function to keep pickpockets at bay.

One adventurer says this is perfect for exploring new places with peace of mind, “ I got this bag for traveling after someone tried to unzip my other backpack in Paris. It’s stylish and keeps my things safe since the zipper is against my back. I like the removable strap so I can throw it over my shoulder when needed. I love this bag!”

And it’s durable—as droplets of water don’t affect it much and the chic hardware is anti-corrosion. Buy it here!

Read how to choose the best  travel purse !

BOYATU Purse Backpack Bag With Reinforced Straps

BOYATU High-Quality PU Leather Backpack Purse Convertible Style

This BOYATU convertible travel backpack closes in clever and safe ways with a pull rope and a magnetic buckle. Super soft, but full of tons of organizational compartments, including a side, back, and interior pockets to keep everything in its place.

The strap can be adjusted to 33” so you can wear it over the shoulder. One user mentions the biggest plus about this backpack, “ My favorite thing about this bag is the fact that it has so many pockets and compartments. On top of it, It has a high-quality feel to it, while the price was right.” 

Zocilor Convertible Backpack Purse Travel Bag

Zocilor Convertible Travel Bag (With Multi Pockets)

For a chic and fun purse and backpack combo , the Zocilor Travel Bag  has a sleek m ultipurpose design that easily converts handbag to backpack purse and shoulder bag , so secure and stylish, along with numerous interior and exterior pockets for lots of organizational options. Adjustable backpack straps and detachable shoulder strap.

An economical way to look elevated without paying a ton, this is wonderful for travel or daily use. Buy it here!

Best Leather Convertible Backpack Purse

The Sak Loyola Mini Backpack

Sak Loyola Convertible Leather Backpack Purse

An excellent leather option for under $100, the Sak Loyola offers popular backpack purses that have style and function in one. Able to be a crossbody as well, it has multiple pockets inside and outside to store small essentials.

While not something for business travel, this is ideal for a personal onboard item or a terrific for a sightseeing bag. This user is very happy with her find, “ The convertible backpack/crossbody design is genius! It’s super well made and fits everything I need. It’s so comfortable as a backpack I forget it’s on. Then say I’m in a crowded place and want to keep it closer, boom it’s a crossbody within my sight. Amazing!” Buy it here!

Fossil Camilla Convertible Backpack

Fossil Camilla Soft Leather Convertible Backpack Purse

A reader favorite, this 100% leather Fossil laptop tote backpack has a back zipper to safely stow something as well as lots of other pocket options to organize, as well as room for a 13” laptop.

A traveler gives a short review, “I purchased this bag for an upcoming vacation, and now that I’m back, I can easily say this bag made all the difference. It’s large enough to hold a 32 oz water bottle, rain coat, umbrella, batteries, reusable shopping bags, Kindle, and a slew of other things. Not to mention I LOVE the back pocket which is easily accessible while it’s on, and I kept my wallet and phone in there without even feeling it.”

This pictured color (henna) is loved by readers, in case you’re looking for color ideas! This is a quality bag that can be worn on the shoulder or as a tote as well and it will last for years. Buy it here!

If you need the  best packable tote , read our list!

Cuyana Backpack Purse

Cuyana Leather Convertible Leather Backpack (With 13”-16” Laptop Sleeve)

If you’re a purveyor of fine Italian products, the convertible backpack purse designer Cuyana has crafted is an elegant, classig design that can fit all your essentials, as well as a dedicated laptop compartment that accommodates 13”-16” size laptops.

It has nice, wide straps, easy to use magnetic closures, and you can carry as a tote or over the shoulder. Cuyana is LWG certified, which means that the leather is tanned responsibly. Buy it here!

Ili RFID Leather Convertible Backpacks (With 13” Laptop Sleeve)

A high-quality pick, the Ili convertible leather bag offers everything a traveler wants, boasting RFID blocking technology, multiple pockets, and a 13” padded laptop compartment.

With a sleek hardware and shape, this would be ideal for more fashionable cities like New York and also European travel. Buy it here!

Traveling with a laptop? Check out these  business backpacks!

Womens Convertible Bag Product Comparison Chart

What’s your favorite women’s convertible laptop backpack ? Please comment below!

For more tips and ideas on travel bags, please read:

• Top Anti-Theft Travel Bags for Women – Best Sellers!
• What are the Best Travel Bags with Trolley Sleeve?
• Best Messenger Bags: Functional and Adorable Options
• Cross Body Purses: The Best Travel Shoulder Bags for Women

LIKED THIS POST? PIN THIS PIC TO SAVE IT!

I hope you liked this post on why we love a convertible backpack purse for travel. Please share with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

13 comments.

I ended up buying the Sak Loyola based on this post and found it on sale this weekend. I mostly wanted something purse-like and sleek to fit my laptop in between the office and home, but I think it will be really helpful for my underseat item for traveling too!

Great list! I have The Sak Ventura 2 bag in tobacco. I took it to my local leather shop and had a matching 8” grab handle added to the top rings. This allows me to slip the bag onto my wrist or carry it by this short handle. This makes the bag incredibly versatile. Because of the unique suspension system, I can also carry it as a backpack, backpack with the flap turned against my back, shoulder bag, or crossbody. The bag well-made and nicely lined. Naturally cut resistant. I sewed some attachment points into the lining for my wallet and phone tethers, keys, etc. It’s big enough for a full day out, including a jacket (in a small packing cube), bottle of water and snacks, but the flat shape keeps it from becoming bulky. I can hold it in my lap during meals and transit. I appreciate the carrying options, because I like to use a backpack for my main bag, with a medium size handbag for my personal item and day bag.

I am on a search for the right one for me!

I have an older Travelon convertible backpack that we used when sightseeing in Europe.

Just purchased a Sherpani sojourn to use as my under seat bag for an upcoming trip to Europe. Can’t wait to give it a try.

I have a different version of the Sherpani (mine is a Sojourn) and love it! I’m going to have to try and get my hands on one of the teal Soleils. I also have a different verion of the Pixie Mood (mine is the Cora), which I haven’t used as much. I’ll have to consider it more often.

Thank you for sharing your love of the Sherpani backpacks with us Cheri! 🙂

I have the exact Sakroots bag shown. It’s a good idea, but the patterned version of it is not stiff enough or structured enough. It collapses on itself all the time and the adjustable straps never stay put. The bag ends up at my knees in crossbody mode. This bag will only drive you crazy. The concept is good, but doesn’t function like it should.

Good to know, thanks!

I have the same bag. I agree 100% with your comment. Hence, my search for a new convertible backpacks begins.

I have one too and I agree with J.C and Elle. I now use the Tumi Jackie convertible bag, it’s way better than this one!

I love the Henri Bendel Convertible Backpack. It is super cute, comes in many colors, and is very versatile.

I would love to know what the bag is in the top, title picture for this article.

The image used is a stock photo, however the bag is similar to item 2 on the list 🙂

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

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

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

Browser Security Check…

Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

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

Switchback Travel ( Brian McCurdy )

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

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

Our Team's Top Travel Backpack Picks

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

Best Overall Travel Backpack

1. cotopaxi allpa 35l ($200).

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

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

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

2. peak design travel backpack ($300).

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

What complaints do we have about the Peak Design Travel Backpack? Price is the most glaring downside: At $300, it’s one of the most expensive designs on our list (only topped by the $350 Tortuga Travel Backpack and Matador GlobeRider45 below). And while the bag is undeniably sleek, it’s pretty utilitarian-looking and less everyday-friendly than more vibrant options like the Cotopaxi Allpa above and Topo Designs Global Travel Bag below. It’s also on the heavy end at 4 pounds 8 ounces, which isn’t unreasonable but does add considerable heft compared to many competitors. Finally, the Travel Backpack is technically not carry-on compliant when expanded, measuring 22 x 13 x 11 inches (the standard U.S. domestic carry-on limit is 22 x 14 x 9 in.). But it works at the compressed 35-liter size (or smaller 30L option) , and photographers in particular will love the shape, which nicely accommodates multiple camera cubes, lenses, and other accessories. See the Peak Design Travel Backpack

Excellent Carrying Comfort for Gear-Intensive Trips

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

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

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

Best Weekend Travel Backpack

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

Topo Designs flies a little under the radar compared to well-known brands like Cotopaxi and Osprey, but don’t let that deter you: This company makes exceptionally built and good-looking packs for everything from commuting and travel to more technical pursuits like biking and climbing. Their Global Travel Bag 30L here is a shining example and our favorite weekend-ready design of the year. What immediately stood out about this pack was the sheer number of pockets and attachment points, from the vertical daisy chain webbing on the front to the expandable side water bottle pockets, ample zippered storage inside and out, a laptop sleeve along the backpanel, and several interior mesh pockets. Like the Cotopaxi Allpa above, the Global Travel Bag is also well equipped for rough use, including a mix of 1,000- and 1,680-denier ballistic nylon that gives the pack a noticeably burly, confidence-inspiring feel—at a very manageable 2 pounds 10 ounces to boot.

That said, the extensive feature set does add some complexity when it comes to organization. We like the big clamshell opening to the main compartment, but we had to reorganize to make everything fit into the various compartments (they're optimized for Topo Designs' Pack Bags , which are smaller than our standard packing cubes). The tall and slim shape is also best suited for clothing rather than bulky gear, which may be limiting for outdoor adventures that involve camping or backpacking. We also wished there were a little more padding along the shoulder straps and hipbelt while walking through airports with the pack stuffed full, but it distributed the load pretty well (and the hipbelt can be tucked away when not in use). In the end, no pack is perfect, but the Global Travel Bag 30L is a well-built, durable, and stylish option for overnights, short weekend getaways, and even minimalist adventures abroad. For those embarking on longer trips, it’s also sold in a larger 40-liter variation for $229. See the Topo Designs Travel Bag 30L

Best Budget Travel Backpack

5. amazon basics carry-on travel backpack ($40).

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

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

Best High-Capacity Travel Pack for Long Trips

6. osprey farpoint 70 ($230).

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

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

Best of the Rest

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

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

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

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

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

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

9. Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L ($350)

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

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

10. Yeti Crossroads 35L Backpack ($250)

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

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

11. Matador GlobeRider45 ($350)

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

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

12. Thule Aion Travel Pack ($200)

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

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

13. Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45 ($280)

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

All that said, the Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45 is a pretty niche design that prioritizes safety over things like carrying comfort and access. The pack is on the heavier end at over 4 pounds due to all of the protective features, the handles are underbuilt for carrying as a suitcase, the padding along the shoulder straps and hipbelt is noticeably firm (albeit decently thick), and there are no load-lifter straps to pull the pack closer to your body while on the move. Another downside is that the laptop sleeve is positioned at the front of the bag—we prefer when heavier items are situated close to the back for better weight distribution—and accessing items here can be difficult due to the half-length zipper design (we wish it had a clamshell opening like the main compartment). In other words, comfort- and convenience-focused travelers will likely want to look elsewhere, but the Pacsafe has its place for those who prioritize safety and security. See the Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45

14. Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L ($239)

Patagonia’s Black Hole is legendary in the world of duffel bags, and the MLC 45L travel pack variation shares that bag’s excellent durability and good looks in a more organized and carry-on-friendly design. Like the duffels, the Black Hole pack is made of strong (and recycled) polyester ripstop that’s highly tear-resistant with a TPU film on the exterior for fending off precipitation. Importantly, however, the travel focus is clear: You get three carrying options (backpack, over-the-shoulder, or briefcase-style), compatibility with a roller bag, and a generously sized opening with two separate chambers for customizing organization. We also love the backpanel design, which comprises sleeves at one side for a laptop and tablet with zippered and drop-in pockets at the other for divvying up cords and accessories.

Why do we rank the Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L here? The most glaring downside is carrying comfort: The Black Hole doesn’t have a particularly rigid structure, which can lead to sagging if not packed properly and detracts heavily from overall support and protection for fragile items. On the bright side, Patagonia did address a past gripe of ours by equipping the latest model with a stowable hipbelt, but those with smaller frames may still find it a little bulky and cumbersome to haul around (regardless of which carry option you choose). Finally, you miss out on lockable zippers, which are a small but thoughtful touch for added peace of mind while traveling. These drawbacks are enough for us to push the Patagonia pack toward the bottom of our list, but Black Hole fanatics who travel frequently certainly have a lot to be excited about. Of note: Patagonia also offers the smaller Mini MLC 30L that’s great for commutes, daily use, and as a secondary bag for travel, but it’s out of stock at the time of publishing. See the Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L

15. Nomatic Travel Bag 40L ($290)

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

It’s worth noting that Nomatic offers another intriguing option in their Navigator , although we consider the Travel Bag the more competitive all-around design. In parsing out the differences, the Travel Bag costs $110 less and is lighter by nearly 2 pounds, although it forgoes the Navigator’s expandable main compartment that allows you to alternate between 32 and 41 liters depending on your storage needs. The Navigator also includes load lifter straps and a sculpted foam backpanel for a boost in carrying comfort, but the Travel Bag is no slouch. And from a features perspective, we appreciate the Travel Bag’s dirty shoe compartment and included laundry bag. Neither design comes cheap, but if you’re willing to make the investment, both Nomatic packs stand out for their intentional organizational layouts and travel-ready feature sets. See the Nomatic Travel Bag 40L

16. Mystery Ranch Mission Rover 45 ($249)

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

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

Travel Backpack Comparison Table

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

Travel Backpack Buying Advice

Size and capacity.

• Carry-on Size Restrictions

Organization: Pockets and Main Compartment Access

Carrying comfort, grab handles and alternate carry methods.

• Other Features

Construction and Durability

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

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

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

Travel Backpack Dimensions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Other Travel Pack Features

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

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

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

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

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

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

In 2024, it’s pretty common to see pack manufacturers incorporating eco-friendly practices into production, including measures like recycled and bluesign-approved fabrics and PFAS/PFC-free DWR coatings. A couple examples include Pacsafe’s Venturesafe EXP45, which uses polyester that's made from recycled water bottles and other plastics, and Patagonia’s Black Hole MLC 45L, which uses recycled and bluesign-approved (i.e., environmentally safe) polyester and is certified to the Fair Trade standard. A final feature to look out for is a PFC-free DWR coating, which forgoes the use of per- or polyfluorinated chemicals—"forever chemicals" known to be harmful to the environment. With many states stepping up to ban the sale of items that include PFCs, the outdoor industry is seeking better solutions for water- and stain-resistant finishes (for more, you can read about Patagonia’s take on the issue ).

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

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

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

Read More From Switchback Travel

Best Duffel Bags of 2024

Best Women’s Travel Pants of 2024

Camping Gear Reviews

Best Massage Guns of 2024

Best Hikes in El Chaltén, Argentina

Best Hiking Shoes of 2024

Best Water Bottles for Hiking of 2024

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

Best Camping Blankets of 2024

Mobile Menu

Megamenu - desktop hamburger menu.

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

Add adventure to your inbox

• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use

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

Best Backpacks With a Detachable Daypack

Hiking & Camping Gears

0    comments

A proper backpack is essential for all types of outdoor journeys. Whether you are planning to hit the mountains or venture into the wilderness, your backpack will be the most important thing that should be on the top of your "to buy" list. Since buying a backpack is more of a one-time process for most people, you should be very careful while choosing one for yourself.

If you feel frustrated and confused while surfing the internet trying to find the perfect backpack for your trip, then don't be too harsh on yourself, you're not the only one. In this article, we will be talking about the best backpacks with a detachable daypack.

But before we begin, let's quickly talk  about some of the different kinds of hiking & travel backpacks. Jump To Best Options!

Different types of travel backpacks

Rucksack backpack: Most regular backpacks that we come across are zipper locked. However, rucksack backpacks have a flap that covers the main compartment. There can be many ways to close the flap-like magnetic strips, belts, etc.

Hydration backpack: Hydration backpacks are small-sized backpacks generally having a capacity of not more than 6-10 liters. Their main purpose is to hydrate your body when you are traveling or riding. It gives you a hands-free experience and is good for people of all age groups.

Laptop backpack: Pretty straightforward, laptop backpacks are used to carry laptops. They are by far the most used backpacks in today's world. The size and capacity can vary from 20-50L especially designed for carrying different laptops of different sizes. Some hiking backpacks also come with inbuilt laptop sleeves.

Frameless hiking backpack: These hiking backpacks are designed for carrying small amounts of load and they generally are lightweight. They are frameless and take the shape of the load which is packed. They are appropriate for small trips but with heavier loads, they tend to get uncomfortable.

Snowsport backpack: Snowsport backpacks are made for winter sports. Like normal large hiking backpacks, they also have adjustable shoulder straps and hip belts, and ventilated backspace. But the main difference is, they are designed especially for carrying skiing and snowboarding gear.

Disclosure: Links to products might be affiliate links so we earn a commission at no extra cost.

Quick answer:

Check out this quick list of our favorite BACKPACKS if you’re in a hurry, or continue scrolling to see our full list with in-depth reviews

1-Osprey Farpoint 55 Travel Backpack

2-roamm nomad 65 +15 backpack, 3-mountain warehouse traveller 60 + 20l, 4-acecamp 3 in 1 backpack, 5-n nevo rhino internal frame hiking backpack, 1-osprey farpoint 55 men's travel backpack.

View Women's Version

Starting from the number 1 in our list, we have the Osprey Farpoint 55 Men's Travel Backpack. If you are a frequent traveler or backpacker and consider backpacks as your utmost companion, then it is likely you have heard about Osprey. This 48-year-old company is known for its high quality and extremely durable backpacks and other accessories.

Farpoint 55 is one of Osprey's lightest collections built with nylon and ripstop weighing around 2.3 kg. It has a 13L detachable daypack and cushioned carrier handles for a comfortable journey.

Talking about compartments, you will find dual mesh pockets in both the front and back panels along with a padded laptop holder. There is also a small compartment to keep your ID cards safe and secure.

All the compartments are zipper-based and there are lockable sliders on the main compartment zipper. Internal compression straps make sure that you can use them to their full capacity without any damage. This backpack is perfect for a long weekend as it is built to last and can carry more than 50 pounds without any issues. The 55L overall storage space is a medium size backpack that can be carried easily. For overnight trips, you can attach a sleeping pad with it as well.

If you are planning to board a plane, you don't need to worry about size as it can easily be compressed when the main backpack is not fully packed. And everything comes with the add-on of Osprey's warranty.

They have dedicated customer service and there haven't been many instances when they failed to meet customer demands.

Highlight features

Multiple compartments: From dual front mesh pockets to hidden internal compartments, there is a lot to explore. Also, the backpack comes with an emergency whistle and a keychain for extra convenience.

Ventilating design: Farpoint 55 is made with breathable materials to regulate your body temperature. The back panel is ventilated and keeps your electronics safe from overheating.

Secure and compact: You can use the Farpoint 55 as a backpack and can also easily pack it like a suitcase. The design and structure are made for places where wheels can't go.

You will find low-profile handles on both top and sides as well. Zippered pockets also make this backpack super easy to lock.

• Adjustable straps and lightweight
• Different compartments along with a detachable daypack
• Lockable sliders
• Not very durable

Reason to get this:  Best O VERALL

Moving on to the big boy of our list, we have the Roamm Nomad 65+15 Backpack . Not a big name in the industry, but still has achieved popularity among its customers in a very short time.

Wake your inner explorer and get ready for a long and relaxing trip with Nomad 65+15 as your most reliable companion.

Despite being a heavy-duty backpack , the Roamm Nomad is extremely lightweight weighing about 2.4 kgs. it's also made with nylon and features 80L of storage space including a detachable daypack of 15 liters.

Roamm has always looked into the comfort of their customers and this backpack is no exception. It has a fully adjustable padded shoulder harness and a removable waistbelt.

You can also have access to multiple compartments including 1 stretchable front, 2 side mesh, 2 hip belts, and many more. This backpack ensures that you stay hydrated throughout your journey with ambidextrous hydration ports. Roamm Nomad 65+15 Backpack can carry weights above 55 pounds and it also has an aluminum stay for extra support.

It is dedicated to long-term trips having a separate compartment for sleeping bags. It is also fully rainproof so you can keep your important documents and electronic devices in it without any tension.

An ideal all-rounder and heavy-duty backpack, Roamm Nomad surely stands out of the crowd when it comes to storage and durability.

You can take this backpack with you for hiking, trekking, mountaineering or anywhere else you like. The design and fabric keep you cool and comfy and keep your belongings dry and secure. Plus, it is suitable for both men and women.

Heavy-duty and durable: This backpack is built for rough use and is extremely durable. It is heat and water-resistant and the frame is sturdy. It comes with a waterproof rain cover for extra protection of your valuables

Fully Adjustable and comfortable: The shoulder and waist straps are fully adjustable and the backpack is suitable for both men and women. Despite being large, it is lightweight and easy to fit.

External pockets for extra storage: Internal and External mesh pockets, detachable daypack, dual water bottle pockets, and many more, Roamm Nomad surely has a lot to offer. For emergencies, there is also a whistle attached to the sternum straps along with a sunglass retainer.

• Rainproof and heatproof design
• easy to carry
• Multiple access points to the main compartment
• Daypack could have been larger

Reason to get this: Best for value

Now, this one is a little different from the others. Mountain Warehouse Traveller 60+20L Travel Backpack has lots of pockets and spaces and is good for overseas travel.

But, the thing which makes it unique is that it has a completely detachable backpack . Yes, you heard it, this backpack can be separated into two different parts easily. Mountain Warehouse has put some deep thought into its making and the results are great for sure.

Mountain Warehouse Traveller 60+20L Travel Backpack is made with 100% Polyester and comes with a fully detachable 20L bag which you separate straps for you to carry anytime and anywhere. It has adjustable straps so that you can adjust the backside according to your height.

The main compartment has a stretchable design consisting of multiple pockets . The bag also comes with a rain cover which is present at the bottom in a zipper that makes sure your belongings stay dry.

You can also adjust the chest and hip straps for better weight distribution. All the compartments are very secure with zip lockers . The backpack has a side handle that makes it easier to carry by hand in a horizontal alignment.

This backpack has different variants for men and women. The woman variant has a shorter back system and slips hip belt with slimmer shoulder straps and chest straps designed especially for adjusting the contours of your body.

Talking more about the detachable smaller bag, it has a water bottle storage and compact design . And the best part is, all this comes at a quite reasonable price. 

Detachable backpack: Mountain Warehouse Traveller backpacks always come with a detachable backpack which comes pretty handy. Instead of carrying all your heavy stuff with you all the time, you can just carry the small backpack with you and have a more comfortable short trip.

Different variants for men and women: The women's version of this backpack has a shorter back system with slimmer shoulder and waist straps for your sheer comfort. The design also helps to distribute the weight evenly throughout the body.

Secure and easy to carry: Security has always been the top priority of Mountain Warehouse. With its multi-purpose, compartmentalized design, you can be completely sure that your belongings are in a safe place. It is also very easy to carry as it is made of lightweight materials with ample breathing space.

• Adjustable for both men and women
• Multiple pockets for securing valuables
• Affordable price

Reason to get this: perfect for long trips overseas

4-Acecamp 3 in 1 Backpack, Detachable Daypack

If the last one wasn't impressive enough for you, then this backpack might change your mind. Acecamp 3 in 1 Backpack, Detachable Daypack, Waistpack , and Duffle Bag comes with a detachable backpack and a duffle bag as the name suggests.

So you can choose between carrying them separately or just taking all of them together with you for your trip. Being one of the most versatile bags in the industry, it can be said undoubtedly that Acecamp has aced it.

Acecamp 3 in 1 Backpack is made of Nylon and has two detachable compartments including a 25L daypack and a 6L duffle bag.

Firstly, the main backpack is torso length and can fit almost anyone. The hip and chest straps can be adjusted for proper weight distribution.

Several different compartments are ranging from small pockets for keeping your phone and wallet to large laptop storage spaces. The zippers are easy to lock and can be pulled with gloves.

Speaking of detachable parts, the detachable daypack has a padded back panel and adjustable straps to ensure comfort and support. It is quite large and it has a pocket for keeping your phone along with a headphone port.

The duffle bag is also a handy accessory for keeping small items and carry along with you during short trips. This backpack has an overall storage space of 65L and is good for both long and short hiking or trekking trips. It also features hidden pockets inside for you to store essential belongings including ID cards.

Acecamp 3 in 1 is truly an ideal customizable backpack suitable for all your hiking and traveling needs.

Multipurpose Backpack: 3 in 1 heavy-duty backpack featuring a regular backpack with a detached daypack and a duffle bag. You can choose whichever suits you best and adjust accordingly.

Lightweight and durable: Durability is a key feature of this Acecamp 3 in 1 backpack. It is built to last and its reinforced waist belt efficiently transfers the load throughout your body.

External and hidden internal compartments: The bag features both external mesh pockets and internal hidden compartments. The lockable zippers are easy to pull and you can even use them with gloves on. The detachable daypack also has a mirror holder and hanging hook for keys.

• Versatile and multipurpose backpack
• Durable and ideal for both kids and adults
• Waterproof design
• Not very comfortable

Reason to get this:  best for value

Small and sweet is all I need! N NEVO RHINO Internal Frame Hiking Backpack comes in a wide range of shapes and sizes but in this article, we will be talking about the 45+5L size variant.

Most of us are aware that N NEVO RHINO is a famous outdoor brand and has been manufacturing backpacks for many years now. They use advanced production processes and the newest materials and designs for their products.

N NEVO RHINO Internal Frame Hiking Backpack is another nylon-built backpack consisting of a small detachable daypack of 5L. This backpack is known for its durability and eco-friendly design.

It has a large storage space with separate compartments for sleeping bags and shoe storage. It has features front mesh pockets along with space to keep your phone or wallet. The backpack has a rain cover included with it to keep the contents of the bag dry during rainy days.

This N NEVO RHINO backpack has a total storage space of 45L and the straps can be adjusted according to your comfort. The buckle of the padded straps also has a survival whistle which you can use for emergencies. The additional key chain and nylon elastic rope add to its coolness. Planning to go on a short trip? Then, this is the perfect backpack for you. It is very lightweight and easy to adjust and its fabric also keeps out the ultraviolet rays of the sun keeping you cool and dry. And what might be the best part is that it comes with a lifetime warranty.

Moisture-wicking: ATG by Wrangler Men's Long Sleeve Shirt is made with high-quality materials which drive out the moisture from the skin keeping you dry. A vented back also ensures more airflow through the shirt.

Multi-purpose: The shirt has UPF 30+ protection giving you Optimum sun protection. Also, it comes with a quick-dry feature and a glasses cleaner at the bottom part of the shirt.

Pockets and zippers for storage: Two pockets on each side gives you ample space for keeping your necessary belongings. It also has a zipper pocket on one side of a pocket acting as a good security unit. 

• Front pockets along with zippered side pockets
• Full sleeves can be converted to half sleeves
• Very comfortable and good for both warm and cold climates
• A little overpriced for a hiking shirt
• The sun protection is slightly lesser than the other shirts

Other Consideration

Choosing your perfect backpack may sound extremely complicated at first but believe me, there's no rocket science in it. Your first and foremost step is to narrow down your key considerations first.

If you are planning a long trip, it is obvious that you have to carry your backpack with you most of the time. So, it's always better to choose one which you are comfortable using and carrying. Also, keep in mind, not to carry too much luggage as it might make you feel uncomfortable.

As we said in the beginning, buying a backpack is a one-time thing. Your backpack must be able to handle stress and strain during the journey. If your trip is into the deep forests and wilderness, you should consider durability as your top criteria.

Storage compartments

Depending on how much or the variety of luggage you are going to take, you should always look at the storage compartments carefully before picking anything. The math's simple– more luggage, more compartments.

Talking about the weight of your backpack, many people always tend to go for lightweight and easy-to-carry ones. That is a good approach but that's not always the right choice.

If you have more things to carry with you, you should go for a slightly heavy backpack as it will help to distribute the weight and will support your body.

So, here we are, at the end of this review. I hope this article helped you to decide on the best backpack with a detachable daypack for your adventure.

There are many different options, but just remember to decide based on your key consideration and the kind of trip you will go into.

For more guides & reviews read my other posts:

• Best Day Hiking Backpack for Women
• Best Long Sleeve Hiking Shirts For Hot Weather
• Best Hiking Leggings With Pockets
• Best Hiking Lumbar Packs With Shoulder Straps
• How To Wash Osprey Backpack

About the Author

Hussain is a passionate hiker and traveler that love the outdoor and enjoys what nature has to give, whenever he can he love to write and give tips & honest reviews to help others get out there and just seek more unforgettable experiences.

You may also like

Tent rainfly: what is best, best women’s winter hiking jacket, best winter tents with stoves.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Travel Products
• Luggage + Bags
• Backpacks, Totes + Small Bags

The 16 Best Laptop Backpacks of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

We love a laptop backpack that's spacious, has organizational pockets, and will keep our laptops safe during travel.

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 / Jessica Juliao

Since a laptop usually comes at a high price, it’s well worth it to invest in a backpack designed to protect your technology when you’re on the go. Whether you’re traveling on an airplane or trekking through campus, a comfortable, well-made backpack with a padded laptop pocket is a must-have.

Because comfort and durability are arguably the two most important factors when investing, we tested more than 50 laptop backpacks on several occasions in our New York City lab and in the real world to find the best ones for everyday wear with these considerations in mind. We packed each bag with computers, iPads, sweatshirts, and more, and carried them around to see how they felt. We then tossed each one onto the ground from a tabletop to test the bag’s durability (using dummy laptops, of course). Keep reading to learn more about our top picks for style, comfort, value, and more.

Best Overall

Solo re:define backpack.

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

The bag looks and feels compact but has a surprisingly large interior.

One of the zippers is fraying after four months of use.

Looking for a commuter backpack to take with you to the office and beyond? Solo’s Re:Define Backpack is equipped with everything a traveler or commuter needs for long days away from home. At first glance, the bag looks like a normal-sized backpack but it has a deceptively large interior with plenty of pockets to store both big and small items. The 15.6-inch laptop pocket in the back is fully padded and the bag also has an external USB port and a headphone port for traveling seamlessly with electronic devices. Even when we had the bag packed full of accessories and clothing, it felt nearly weightless and exceptionally comfortable to carry thanks to the padded and adjustable shoulder straps.

Made with recycled polyester, the backpack performed perfectly during our durability tests and didn’t sustain any scuffs or scratches after we tossed it onto the ground several times. All of the contents packed appeared to be in their original condition, so we feel confident in this backpack’s protective abilities. The zippers also impressed us by being super smooth even when the bag was packed to the brim. While it’s not the most stylish backpack on the market, its functional and simple design makes it well worth it — a great option for anyone looking for a durable backpack .

The Details: 18 x 13 x 7 inches | 22.5 liters | 1.43 pounds | Recycled PET polyester | 15.6-inch laptop pocket | USB port

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Best Leather

Bee & kin the midi nomad backpack.

Bee & Kin

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

The sleek leather material looks nicer than a typical nylon backpack.

The straps are a bit too long, even when they are adjusted to the shortest setting.

Constructed with soft and sleek Italian leather, this mid-size backpack has the perfect combination of style and functionality. It’s big enough to fit a laptop up to 13 inches long, but it’s small enough that you can use it beyond traveling or commuting for everyday activities like running errands. After four months of use, we found this to be the perfect medium-size bag that is easy to clean, making it a perfect option for everyday use. It can easily fit a laptop, water bottle, wallet, notebook, and headphones with plenty of room left over. While we love the size for versatility, it still has plenty of thoughtful features for travelers like a pocket for a wireless charger ( sold separately ) and several interior pockets for storing accessories.

The leather material has a soft and plush feel to it which makes carrying the bag comfortable, but we wish the straps were a little shorter since the bag sits a little low on the back. Since the backpack is smaller and lightweight, this isn’t a huge issue and we still think the high-quality backpack is worth it for traveling, commuting, and everyday use.

The Details: 13 x 11.6 x 5.5 inches | 2.6 pounds | Leather | 13-inch laptop pocket

Best Convertible

Aer flight pack 3.

• Value 4.5 /5

You can wear this either as a backpack or a duffel bag.

The laptop sleeve is just a slip pocket in the main compartment.

We love that you can choose to wear the Aer Flight Pack 3 as a daily commuter’s backpack or convert it into a duffel bag or briefcase for a business trip or weekend getaway. There are plenty of pockets for organization with a designated laptop sleeve in the main compartment, another compartment with more than seven smaller pockets, and a small zippered pouch in the front. The laptop sleeve is only a slip pocket, and while it kept the laptop in place during our durability test, it isn’t as secure as it could be if it was a zippered pocket. We also found that there's a lot of space for clothes and tech devices for a quick weekend getaway or business trip. Because the pack is made with abrasion- and tear-resistant ballistic nylon, it feels sturdy and durable, sustaining no damage after we dropped it off a tabletop. Plus, we found the backpack, top handle, and duffel straps equally comfortable when carrying the bag in all three ways.

The Details: 18 x 12 x 5.5 inches | 20 liters | 3.4 pounds | Cordura ballistic nylon | 16-inch laptop pocket

Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph

Best Padding

Incase icon backpack.

• Design 4 /5
• Value 4.3 /5

The backpack is outfitted with thick padding.

It doesn’t have a water bottle pocket or trolley sleeve.

The Incase Icon Pack thoroughly impressed us with very thick padding throughout the backpack which adds an abundance of protection and comfort. The back has a padded laptop sleeve that was noticeably thick when we first opened up the backpack. When we dropped the bag onto the floor to test for durability, none of the contents were damaged. The thick padding in the back and on the straps provides comfort while wearing the pack, and we love that the adjustable strap is lined with a soft fabric. Although we wish this backpack came with more features like a water bottle holder or a trolley sleeve, the pack has two spacious compartments, a front pocket, and a variety of smaller pockets for exceptional organization on the inside, making it well worth the investment for the comfortable, durable backpack.

The Details: 19 x 13 x 9 inches | 20 liters | 2.7 pounds | 840D nylon | 15-inch laptop pocket

Best Expandable

Samsonite elevation plus backpack.

• Organization 5 /5
• Portability 5 /5

The expandable zippers add tons of extra space.

It's not the most stylish backpack.

I've tested dozens of backpacks and it can be hard to find a backpack that stands out from others, which is why I'm a big fan of this one from Samsonite, which I personally tested in the lab. While it has a simple design from the outside, the backpack is filled with special features that make it better than your average backpack. It has tons of pockets to store every travel essential you could ever need, including laptops, tablets, notebooks, chargers, passports, and it has a water bottle pocket on the side that keeps a bottle secure (it didn't even fall out when I threw the pack off a table several times). However, my favorite part of the pack is the expandable zipper that adds 1.5 inches of extra space, which came in handy when I packed the bag with an extra jacket. Plus, it fits underneath an airplane seat with ease, and there's extra padding in the back paneling and shoulder straps for superior comfort while traveling.

The Details: 17.8 x 12 x 6.5 inches | 22.75 liters | 2.2 pounds | Recycled polyester | Expandable

Best Solar-powered

Solgaard lifepack backpack.

• Comfort 4 /5

It’s made out of recycled plastic bottles found on beaches and has a built-in, solar-powered USB charger.

The capacity is smaller than other backpacks we tested.

While this backpack impressed us during testing, it also won us over thanks to Solgaard’s sustainability mission in which all of its products are made with ocean-bound recycled materials. The brand uses its patented Shore-tex material to create this backpack with recycled plastic water bottles found on beaches or river banks. In addition, the backpack includes a solar-powered USB charging port so you can charge on the go without having to worry about the life of your power bank. In our testing lab, we were able to fit all of the items on our packing list, including a sweatshirt, a laptop, an iPad, a notebook, and a water bottle, but there wasn’t a lot of space left over. The laptop sleeve is in the back of the bag, and although it’s just a slip pocket, it wasn’t damaged during our durability tests. When it comes to padding, the backpack is outfitted with ample cushioning that makes it comfortable to wear with the adjustable, supportive chest strap, too.

The Details: 12.4 x 6.9 x 19 inches | 19 liters | 4.85 Pounds | Anti-theft lock | USB port

Best Splurge

Lo & sons rowledge.

Lo & Sons

The nylon material and leather accents give the backpack a sleek look without sacrificing protection.

The laptop compartment is too small for any computers over 13 inches long.

Lo & Sons’ The Rowledge laptop backpack is one of the most expensive bags we tested, but it seriously delivered in performance. The nylon exterior outfitted with leather accents makes this sleek, timeless bag a dream for travelers and office-goers. While it may small from the outside, we found that it was possible to fit a sweatshirt, a laptop, an iPad, a notebook, and a water bottle with ease. Our only gripe is that the laptop pocket can only fit laptops that are 13 inches or smaller, so you'll want to consider that if you own a larger computer. The adjustable straps and ample padding throughout the entire backpack add to the comfort and durability of the pack. Although the bag felt a little stiff at first, the material quickly contours to the shape of your shoulders and back over time for a more comfortable fit after a few wears. After tossing the bag off of a tabletop, the laptop remained unharmed in the designated sleeve in the back of the bag, and the exterior showed no signs of damage, so we think this sturdy, well-made backpack is worth the splurge.

The Details: 16.5 x 11.5 x 6.75 inches | 21 liters | 3.2 pounds | Nylon, leather | 13.5-inch laptop pocket

Best Budget

Tzowla travel laptop backpack.

• Capacity 4.8 /5
• Comfort 4.8 /5
• Durability 4.5 /5

The bag has lots of smart features for travelers.

The materials feel lower in quality.

This wallet-friendly backpack exceeded expectations during testing due to all of the thoughtful designs that rivaled the most expensive bags we tested. After four months of regularly using the bag, we especially love the padded laptop sleeve that protects laptops up to 15.6 inches long. The backpack has a variety of other smart features including a USB port, a passcode lock, and a headphone port to make traveling with electronics a breeze. We found that the main compartment is very spacious and easy to pack with bulkier items like a jacket or lunchbox, and the front compartment has tons of little pockets for organizing smaller items.

Made with polyester fabric, the backpack feels fairly durable and didn’t get damaged during our durability tests, but it is noticeably lower quality than the other bags we tested with a higher price point. However, the straps have comfortable padding and adjustable buckles, so the bag is still very comfortable to carry.

The Details: 18.5 x 11.8 x 5.5 inches | 34 liters | 1.83 pounds | Polyester blend | 15.6-inch laptop pocket | USB and headphone port | Password lock

Best Organization

Timbuk2 authority laptop backpack deluxe.

• Capacity 4.5 /5

It has plenty of pockets for organizing all of your belongings efficiently.

The capacity could have been bigger.

The Timbuk2 Authority Laptop Backpack Deluxe has a variety of interior and exterior pockets to help you stay organized on the go. There’s a designated spot for all of your must-haves with a padded laptop pocket in the back, a main compartment with slip and zippered pockets, and a spacious front pocket for items like a notebook. Plus, there’s a side slip pocket for your water bottle and a trolley sleeve for attaching the pack to a suitcase. We love the ability to access your laptop from the back zipper or through the main compartment of the backpack. Additionally, we appreciated the sleek pack’s compression straps so you can adjust the capacity of the bag, but we still thought the main compartment could have been a bit larger. The padded backpack straps are comfortable to wear for long periods of time, and if you live in a rainy climate, the durable recycled nylon exterior is also water-resistant.

The Details: 18.9 x 11.42 x 5.31 inches | 20 liters | 2.51 pounds | Recycled nylon | 17-inch laptop pocket

Most Versatile

Monos metro backpack.

The front pocket comes off so you can travel with or without the extra space.

The original model has visible snaps when the front pocket is removed, but that's been updated with the newer version.

The Monos Metro Backpack has a removable front pocket that adds quite a bit of extra space which is a game-changer for traveling. For other times when you may not need the excess room, all you have to do is pull the discrete cord in the back of the pouch to release pouch and take it off. Best of all, when you remove the pouch, the backpack still looks sleek, and it doesn't look like any part of the bag is missing thanks to the brand's modular system for taking on and off the pouch.

We love the soft vegan leather look of the backpack and found the materials to provide protection against laptop damage when we dropped it. There are several pockets inside the main compartment, and the laptop pocket is in the back, separated from the rest of the bag. Whether you're traveling on an airplane or heading into the office, this stylish bag is ideal for those looking for a versatile backpack. It also comes in nylon fabric with more colors to choose from.

The Details: 11.5 × 16.5 × 6 inches | 18 liters | 3 pounds | Vegan leather or nylon | 15-inch laptop pocket

Travel + Leisure / Anna Popp

Everlane ReNew Transit Backpack

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

This lightweight backpack has a sleek, 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 with a great carry-on backpack , Everlane’s The ReNew Transit Backpack is the perfect fit. Functional and contemporary, we found it to best suited for day outings 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 also 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 after we threw it off a table multiple times. We liked how it can fit under an airplane seat, making it a versatile backpack when traveling, too. The laptop sleeve keeps a computer safe, and there's also a water bottle holder on the side and an additional front zippered pocket below the folding magnetic lock. With five earthy tones to choose from, this is a bag to fit all travel style preferences.

The Details: 12 x 17.5 x 7.25 inches | 27 liters | Recycled polyester | 15-inch laptop pocket

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Bagsmart Bonchemin Laptop Backpack

The high-quality material and functional design is similar to pricier bags we tried.

You have to clip the laptop pocket with the provided carabiners otherwise the bag will open and your laptop will drop.

Rivaling higher-priced backpacks we tried, this option from Bagsmart proves that you don’t have to sacrifice quality for a lower price, so we dubbed it the best backpack for its high value. During our tests, we found that this bag is spacious enough to fit a laptop, an iPad, a notebook, and a sweatshirt with plenty of room left over to add more. The backpack is made with a cushioned polyester fabric and foam padded straps that had us raving about comfort when wearing. However, because the bag is made out of fabric, it may get dirtier than a nylon pack, but it didn’t show any signs of damage during our durability tests.

With four separate zippered compartments and more than 10 interior pockets, travelers will also appreciate the variety of spots to organize everything. The pack also has anti-theft zippers, a USB charging port, a side water bottle pocket, and a trolley sleeve, making this one of the best-designed laptop backpacks we tried.

The Details: 18.5 x 12.5 x 7 inches | 40 liters | 1.5 pounds | Polyester | 15.6-inch laptop pocket | USB port

Best for Photographers

Peak design everyday backpack.

It comes with Velcro separators for added protection for camera or video gear.

The magnetic top opening has a slight learning curve to open the backpack easily.

The Peak Design Everyday Backpack will give you peace of mind when it comes to protecting your camera or video equipment while traveling. Its structured design adds extra protection, and the backpack comes with four stiff Velcro separators to further protect fragile technology. Plus, the padded laptop sleeve in the back will ensure that your laptop travels safely. The icing on the cake of this backpack is how lightweight it feels to wear, especially for long periods of time. The weatherproof nylon exterior didn’t scuff or get scratched when we threw the backpack onto the floor, and best of all, the laptop and iPad remained unharmed. Since the bag is designed for photographers, it comes with three separators that you can fasten to the side of the backpack to protect and organize camera gear. The magnetic top latch was slightly finicky to open at first, but once done, it gets easier to use.

The Details: 24.5 x 14.2 x 7.8 inches | 30 liters | 4.1 pounds | Recycled nylon, polyester | 15-inch laptop pocket | Fits DSLR cameras

Best for Students

Fjällräven räven 28.

• Durability 4.3 /5

The backpack is comfortable and breathable to wear while walking.

The polyester blend wasn’t as durable as we hoped.

For students walking across campus or between classes, the Fjällräven Räven 28 Backpack is the best option. We love how breathable the back padding is and that it provides plenty of cushioning and support when it's on. The design itself is not bulky, so we weren't worried about brushing up against other people while walking through crowded places during our real-world test. Plus, there are tons of pockets in the main compartment for classroom essentials, and each side of the backpack has a water bottle slip pocket.

We did notice that this bag easily collects dust or lint after it is tossed on the ground. Despite the slight dirtiness of the fabric, we found that the backpack does an excellent job of protecting a laptop in the designated padded sleeve in the back. It's not difficult to fit varying needs, even after using it on a daily commute for two months, and we found it battled the elements well, keeping a computer untouched by rain, too.

The Details: 18.5 x 14 x 6.1 inches | 28 liters | Polyester and cotton with wax coating | 15-inch laptop pocket

Best Sustainable

Troubadour orbis 1-pocket backpack.

• Design 4.3 /5

It’s made with 100 percent recycled materials that can be fully recycled if the bag can no longer be used.

The main zipper has a fabric trim over it that makes it difficult to open and close the bag.

This backpack from Troubadour is one of the most unique backpacks we’ve ever tested. Not only is the bag made with 100 percent recycled fabric but when it’s no longer able to be used, it can actually be recycled instead of going into a landfill. While we’re big fans of the sustainability of the bag, it’s also extremely comfortable to wear and looks very sleek from the outside.

The back panel and shoulder straps have lifejacket-level padding so you’ll be plenty comfortable wearing the bag for long periods of time. Your laptop will be thoroughly protected thanks to the cushioned pocket in the back — a distinguishing feature of a good laptop bag . There's an ideal amount of small and medium pockets sprinkled throughout the interior and exterior so it’s easy to pack a sweatshirt, book, phone charger, keys, and more for a trip. The design and materials of the bag feel exceptionally durable, and it still looks new after four months of regular use. The only issue we ran into was with the zipper being slightly difficult to find because of the fabric hood that covers the main zipper.

The Details: 16.5 x 11.8 x 5.5 inches | 17.6 liters | 3.3 pounds | Recycled polyester | 16-inch laptop pocket

Watch How We Test Travel Products

Béis the backpack.

• Design 4.8 /5

It has a simple, no-frills design for extra versatility.

It may be too large for every-day use.

We love the simple design of the Béis backpack and found that it’s packed full of thoughtful features making it the perfect backpack for travelers , students, and commuters alike. We were impressed with the large capacity of the main compartment that could easily fit all of the items on our packing list, including tech items like a laptop and iPad on the inside and a water bottle in one of the two slip pockets on the sides. The main compartment has several smaller pockets and a designated padded laptop sleeve. After we did our drop test to evaluate the durability, the padding did a good job of protecting the laptop, but there isn’t padding at the bottom of the bag which had us questioning how much protection the backpack offers. Even when it was completely packed, the padded straps were comfortable to wear, and the back had more padding for added comfort.

The Details: 19 x 13 x 5.5 inches | 22 liters | 1.8 pounds | Cotton, PVC, polyester | 14.5-inch laptop pocket

Other Laptop Backpacks We Liked

Here are some other backpacks we've tested that are worth mentioning, all of which we liked for various reasons but found some slight issues with.

Away The Everywhere Zip Backpack : The design is sleek and functional, but we think there isn’t enough padding for comfort or laptop protection if the bag is handled roughly.

Samsonite Classic Leather Slim Backpack : The slim design is sleek and professional without sacrificing capacity, but the outer material did scuff a bit during our durability tests.

Vohler Laptop Backpack With Charger : This pack was a serious contender for the best budget bag thanks to its sturdy build and protective padding, but our above pick had a few more standout features than this one.

Swissgear Travel Gear 1900 Scansmart TSA Laptop Backpack : Ideal for students, travelers, or commuters, we loved that this bag is durable and has plenty of storage solutions, but it wasn’t as comfortable as we hoped.

Between several different lab testing occasions, we tested more than 50 laptop backpacks from highly rated brands like The North Face, Away, Samsonite, Swissgear, and more. We evaluated each pack on a rating scale of one to five based on capacity, design, comfort, and durability.

First, to test for capacity, we used a packing list to fill the bag with a laptop, an iPad, a sweatshirt, a water bottle, a notebook, and a toiletry bag. Backpacks scoring a five for capacity were able to fit all of the packing items and provided an appropriate amount of organization solutions for the laptop, as well as the other items both big and small. During the packing process, we evaluated the design of each bag, and our top picks for the design category had plenty of padding around the laptop pocket, a variety of helpful pockets, and handles or straps that made carrying the backpack effortless and intuitive.

Then, we put on the backpacks and walked around for at least ten minutes to get a feel for the bag. We looked out for any pain caused by shoulder or sternum straps, pinching, or any other type of discomfort. The best bags for comfort were outfitted with padding in the back and straps and didn’t cause any awkwardness or irritation from the pack. To test for durability, we pushed the backpacks off of a tabletop and checked the interior contents and exterior for any scuff marks, scratches, or damage. The backpacks also went out for four months of long-term testing in the real world so we could monitor the quality and functionality to ultimately decide which products tested best .

As we continue to test more backpacks, we will update this article with our findings.

Tips for Buying a Laptop Backpack

Check the laptop sleeve size.

Most laptops measure anywhere from 10 to 17 inches in length, so it’s important to double-check the dimensions of the laptop sleeve to ensure it fits in the designated pocket. Usually, you can find the laptop length capacity of a backpack in the “specification” description of the bag.

Padding is key for protection and comfort

The more padding around the laptop, the better protected it will be if that bag is handled roughly . Since the laptop pocket or sleeve is usually in the back of the bag, there should be padding in the back to add comfort while wearing the backpack. Also, be on the lookout for additional padding on the straps to make the bag even more comfortable to wear.

During our tests, we placed the laptop directly into the pocket without a case on it and found that the top-performing bags had enough padding to protect the laptop from getting damaged. However, if you feel more comfortable slipping it into a laptop case and placing it in the backpack, feel free to do so.

Laptops often measure anywhere from 13 to 17 inches, which is the diagonal measurement of the screen. To get the right measurement, take a tape measure and place it from one screen corner to the opposite diagonally to get the right measurement. Most laptop pockets will say what dimensions the space will fit so be sure to double-check your laptop size to get the right backpack.

It always depends on the airline you fly and the luggage restrictions that come with your ticket, but generally, a backpack can be a personal item on a flight in addition to a carry-on. However, if your laptop backpack is too large to fit underneath the seat in front of you, it could potentially count as a carry-on instead, so it's important to check with your airline ahead of time.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

T+L commerce writer Anna Popp writes most of the team's tested content and participates in every lab and real-world test to try out luggage, outdoor, and beauty products. Anna owns several laptop backpacks including picks from Monos, Troubadour, and Lo & Sons. She pulled from her own experiences traveling with backpacks and combed through thorough testing insights to recommend the best laptop backpacks.

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

Spring trend report: Shop skin solutions and fashion problem solvers — from $9

• TODAY Plaza
• Share this —

• Watch Full Episodes
• Read With Jenna
• Inspirational
• Relationships
• TODAY Table
• Newsletters
• Start TODAY
• Shop TODAY Awards
• Citi Music Series
• Listen All Day

Follow today

More Brands

• On The Show

20 comfy, sturdy backpacks for every kind of trip — and expert tips for finding the right one

There's nothing quite like a sturdy travel backpack. It comes in handy wherever you go, whether that's toting it around an airport, exploring new city streets or hiking a new trail .

“Backpacks are the easiest way to carry personal items and essentials in one place,” travel expert Valerie Joy Wilson tells us. They also make versatile carry-ons, which is why travel pro Misty Belles of Virtuoso Travel often reaches for them when she's flying with her kids or heading somewhere she knows she'll be more active.

That said, travel backpacks come in all sorts of shapes, sizes, colors and patterns, and shopping for the right one can get overwhelming. As Wilson puts it, "everyone is different, and what’s essential can vary from one traveler to the next, so one backpack will not fit everyone’s needs."

That's why we talked to several travel pros to help us — and you! — select the right travel backpack for whatever type of journey you embark on.

What to look for | Best budget | Most versatile | Best daypacks | Best for carry-ons | Best for work | Best eco-friendly | Best for one-bag travel | Best for organized packers | Most durable | Best expandable | Most stylish | How we chose | FAQs | Meet our experts

Best budget travel backpacks

Matein travel laptop backpack.

Travel Laptop Backpack

Material: Water-resistant polyester | Dimensions: 12 x 18 x 7.8 in. | Weight: 1.56 lbs | Capacity: 30 L | Laptop pocket: 15.6 in. | Other features: Luggage sleeve, USB port, anti-theft pocket, key hook | Colors available: 24 | Warranty: Lifetime through company website

Amazon's No. 1 bestseller in laptop backpacks deserves that spot — not only is it currently under $25, but it's built like many of the higher-end travel backpacks on this list. It has a breathable, padded back panel and shoulder straps so you can stay comfortable wearing it and it also has a luggage sleeve should you need to securely set it atop your suitcase. We like the USB charger port for convenience, as well. The construction is durable, boasting a water-resistant exterior and metal (not plastic) zippers. It's versatile, too: Its svelte silhouette betrays how much it can pack in, and it works for both air travel and commuting to work.

Coowoz Large Travel Backpack Women

Large Travel Backpack Women

Material: Waterproof polyester | Dimensions: 17 x 31 x 42 in. | Weight: 2.2 lbs | Capacity: 17 L | Laptop pocket: 14 in. | Other features: USB port, antitheft pocket, chest buckle | Colors available: 15 | Warranty: N/A

This backpack is ideal for a traveler that enjoys a bag with a softer, less industrial design, but still wants a bag with simplicity and organization. It comes with a separate shoe compartment, built-in charging port, interior pocket, anti-theft pocket and even a laptop sleeve to keep your things ultra-organized.

"This bag is the perfect size to use as a free airline personal item. Lots of organization built in and the way the bag is designed you are able to utilize every inch of space," reports one Amazon reviewer .

Open Story 35L Travel Backpack

35L Travel Backpack

Material: Recycled polyester | Dimensions: 19.25 x 13 x 8.25 in. | Weight: 2.6 lbs | Capacity: 35 L | Laptop pocket: 17 in. | Other features: Water-resistant, padded laptop pocket, padded shoulder straps, mesh and organizer zip pockets, luggage sleeve, adjustable compression clasps | Colors available: 2 | Warranty: 1-year limited warranty

We like that this Target pick sports specs and features that befit a more expensive backpack. But at just under $50, this fits both our quality and budget requirements. First, the size: It can hold 35 liters, the biggest capacity of our budget picks. Its exterior is soft but waterproof and made of durable polyester and the bag itself has everything you'll need to travel without worrying about your goods: a trolley sleeve, side compression straps and a padded laptop pocket, for instance. Plus, the zip closure goes all the way around the bag, making it easy to access whatever you need without having to dig.

Most versatile travel backpacks

Open story commuter backpack.

Material: Coated water-repellent nylon | Dimensions: 16 x 12 x 6 in. | Weight: 1.76 lbs | Capacity: 18 L | Laptop pocket: 15 in. | Other features: RFID-blocking, elastic side pocket, padded shoulder straps and laptop pocket, luggage sleeve, tote handles | Colors available: 4 | Warranty: 5-year limited warranty

This one is for any last-minute trips — or just about anything else. One TODAY editor raves about this backpack's versatility, saying it works equally well as a weekender tote and carry-on .

"The backpack has five additional interior and exterior pockets for holding the essentials. I use the zippered inner pocket to store everything I want to keep safe and clean, like my passport, disposable masks and antibacterial wipes."

Lo & Sons Hanover 2

Material: 600D water-resistant recycled polyester, polyester and foam interior | Dimensions: 11.5 x 7 x 16.25 in. | Weight: 1.75 lbs | Capacity: 21.4 L | Laptop pocket: 15 in. | Other features: Padded memory foam straps, luggage sleeve, removable insert with dedicated laptop sleeve and water bottle pocket, memory foam-padded shoulder straps | Colors available: 3 | Warranty: 1-year warranty (third-party purchases not covered)

Shop TODAY's senior partnerships editor Francesca Cocchi Zabloudil is a huge fan of Lo & Sons' weekender bags for how spacious and space-efficient they are, in addition to being impeccably constructed of high-quality materials. We were delighted to find out that their Hanover 2 travel backpack also checks off those boxes.

The design is simple but minimalist chic, and its exterior betrays an inside that's extremely space-efficient. It has both a TSA-friendly removable laptop sleeve and multiple stash pockets, and it can fit both a laptop and tablet, as well as a few books and your toiletries and cords.

Best daypacks for outdoor travel

Diamond candy waterproof hiking backpack.

Waterproof Hiking Backpack

Material: Not listed, water-resistant "hammock-like" material | Dimensions: 12.6 x 7.9 x 19.7 in. | Weight: 2.43 lbs | Capacity: 40 L | Laptop pocket: 16 in. | Other features: Laptop pocket, two side pockets, two hip pockets, latching loop, trekking pole, bottom and side buckles, whistle buckles | Colors available: 9 | Warranty: N/A

If you're looking for an option that's built for a trip where you'll be spending most of your time outdoors, this is a good option, particularly for its hydration system. The backpack is weather-resistant and can withstand most of what the trail might bring, including sharp objects and water. The multi-compartments and roomy interior will give you the convenience to carry all your essentials without feeling extra weight due to its lightweight construction.

Osprey Daylite Everyday Pack

Daylite Everyday Backpack

Material: 300D recycled polyester, PFC-free DWR | Dimensions: 16.93 x 10.24 x 7.87 in. | Weight: 1.1 lbs | Capacity: 13 L | Laptop pocket: 13 in. | Other features: Tech/reservoir sleeve, dual-side compression straps, two side bottle pockets, harness that doubles as trolley sleeve | Colors available: 11 | Warranty: All Mighty Guarantee lifetime functional repair

Ali Garland, travel expert of blog Travel Made Simple, is a fan of Osprey's daypacks, like this slim, 18-liter one with a built-in water reservoir sleeve. In fact, "My husband has a bigger Osprey he uses as his main bag when we travel," she says.

This pack is best if you're traveling light, and especially if you plan to be on your feet for most of your travels; in addition to its hydration-friendly design, it only weighs a little over a pound.

TOPO Designs Rover Pack Classic

Rover Pack Classic

Material: 1000D recycled nylon, 420D recycled nylon | Dimensions: 11 x 17 x 4.5 in. | Weight: 1 lb | Capacity: 20 L | Other features: Flat top with two side-release buckles, drawstring closure, laptop sleeve, two adjustable side bottle pockets, four side compression straps, top carry handle, key clip, travel bag attachment loops | Colors available: 21 | Warranty: Lifetime warranty

This pick is a daypack that's designed mainly for trails, but it's stylish enough that it can double as a work bag, school backpack and even, as writer and frequent traveler Bridget Shirvell calls it, a "day out in the city" pack.

Shirvell says that for its design quality, durable feel and the company's limited lifetime warranty and repairs program, it's very much worth its price point. It also has pockets, but not too many pockets that she's having to search through them for longer than she'd like to, especially in an airport line. And don't let the skinny, tall shape fool you: In addition to her 13-inch Macbook, "I also easily fit several books, headphones, charging cables, my water bottle, a snack and essentials (including sunglasses, a hat, my wallet and more)," Shirvell says.

Best carry-on backpacks for air travel

Land's end travel backpack.

Travel Backpack

Material: Ballistic nylon shell with water-repellent finish, polyester lining | Dimensions: 12 x 18 x 6 in. | Weight: 1.7 lbs | Capacity: 22 L | Laptop pocket: 15 in. | Other features: Padded laptop sleeve, adjustable sternum strap, luggage sleeve, inner tech cord pocket, side zip pockets, key fob | Colors available: 2 | Warranty: Not listed

This backpack from Land's End comes with triple compartments for easy organization. It's also water-repellent matter if it starts raining, this bag will keep your shoes and clothes dry. It has a trolley sleeve to put on top of your carry-on and enough pockets to keep small things neat and tidy. The cherry on top is that the brand lets you personalize it with your initials for a cool $8.

Away F.A.R. Backpack 26L

F.A.R Backpack 26L

Material: Abrasion-resistant recycled polyester | Dimensions: 19 x 12.6 x 7.7 in. | Weight: 1.74 lbs | Capacity: 26 L | Laptop pocket: 15 in. | Other features: Two water bottle side pockets, laptop pocket, luggage sleeve, front webbing key loops | Colors available: 3 | Warranty: 100-day return policy , limited 1-year warranty

Away's backpack is another pick that has a versatile design and can hold all of your travel must-haves, and its constructed with the same attention to detail that's feature on their famous hardshell suitcases.

The bag is a favorite of Shop TODAY associate editor Emma Stessman: "It's my go-to for both work and travel, especially when I need to bring my laptop along. It's super roomy so I can fit my laptop, gym clothes and anything else I need for the day. There are two spots you can keep your laptop — in the sleeve in the main compartment or a hidden back zippered pocket. Plus, it has a bunch of other pockets so it's easy to keep everything organized."

Monos Metro Backpack

Metro Backpack

Material: Premium nylon twill, ultra-microfiber vegan leather | Dimensions: 11.5 × 16.5 × 6 in. | Weight: 2.4 lbs (nylon), 3 lbs (vegan leather), 0.6 lb (detachable kit) | Capacity: 18 L | Laptop pocket: 15 in. | Other features: Hidden back pocket with magnet closure, waterproof wet pocket, detachable toiletry kit, top carry handles, luggage sleeve, felt-lined interior tech sleeve, separate zippered laptop pocket | Colors available: 9 | Warranty: 2-year limited warranty

I (Sales) use this bag myself for work: I just remove the detachable dopp kit, insert my laptop in the dedicated zippered compartment, and stuff all my other essentials (including a book, 32-ounce bottle and perhaps a change of clothes for the gym) in the main compartment, with plenty of room to spare. But however little you pack in it, it keeps its shape because of the semi-rigid construction. Its flexible capacity, combined with the fact that it's airport-friendly (the separate laptop compartment is helpful, along with the attachable dopp kit and luggage handle sleeve), makes this one of my favorite all-around travel bags.

Best travel backpacks for work trips

Solo metropolitan backpack with removable sleeve.

Metropolitan Backpack

Material: Polyester | Dimensions: 19 x 12.6 x 7.7 in. | Weight: 2.3 lbs | Capacity: 26 L | Laptop pocket: 16 in. | Other features: TSA-friendly removable laptop sleeve, padded back and shoulder straps, padded carry handle, quick access pocket, file compartment, headphone port | Colors available: 1 | Warranty: 5-year warranty

While this budget pick only comes in one color and has no luggage handle strap, we think its functionality and sleek, unisex design more than makes up for it. Besides its versatile shape and color scheme, the bag's removable laptop sleeve also makes it great for business trips that involve air travel. Its interior also has an organizer section and a file pocket, and it has two zippered outer side pockets and one front pocket for quick access to your small essentials.

One reviewer reported, "I searched high and low for a replacement laptop bag and landed on the Solo. I'm happy. Plenty of storage space and the build quality seems good. I wanted a bag that looked professional in a business setting and not like a school bag, and this fit."

Best eco-friendly travel backpack

Coalatree compass backpack.

Compass Backpack

Material: Recycled slash-proof polyester, nylon | Dimensions: 16 x 9 x 12 in. | Weight: 1.6 lbs | Capacity: 15 L | Laptop pocket: 20 in | Other features: TSA-approved lock, hidden zippered passport pocket, 2 padded tech pockets with Velcro straps, two water bottle holders | Colors available: 2 | Warranty: 180-day guarantee

The Compass Backpack is made from recycled water bottles and is slash-proof, which is a nice feature when hiking through the woods with sticks and thorns. The backside pocket can also keep valuables like a phone and passport safe and out of sight.

Best backpack for one-bag traveling

Osprey fairview 40 travel pack.

Fairview 40 Travel Pack

Material: 450D recycled twist dobby polyester, PFAS-free DWR | Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9 in. | Weight: 3.4 lbs | Capacity: 40 L | Laptop pocket: 16 in. | Other features: Zipper laptop sleeve, stow-away harness, padded top and side handles, "shove it" front pocket, hip belt, external gear attachment loops, adjustable chest strap with stress whistle | Colors available: 4 | Warranty: All Mighty Guarantee

Nomadosaurus directors and outdoor travel experts Alesha Bradford and Jarryd Salem, as well as Albelda of The World Or Bust, recommend Osprey's Farpoint 40 travel backpack as a good carry-on solution. The brand highlights this lightweight pack by noting that it's made for "fast-moving" individuals, further emphasizing how you can continue to be on-the-go and ready with all of your goods.

Solgaard Medium Lifepack Endeavor with Closet

Lifepack Endeavor Medium (with Closet)

Material: ShoreTex (upcycled ocean-bound plastic-derived durable fabric) | Dimensions: 11 x 17.25 x 7.5 in. | Weight: 2.8 lbs (bag), 0.75 lb (closet) | Capacity: 17 - 29 L | Laptop pocket: 16 in. | Other features: Removable hanging closet, expandable, four secret pockets, luggage strap, padded back support and shoulder straps, water-resistant base, "workzone" pocket with drop-proof laptop and cable storage | Colors available: 6 | Warranty: 2-year warranty

Similar to a toiletry bag, this backpack can be hung on a hook and unfolded to display all of the items within easily. Plan and pick out your outfits seamlessly, thanks to the multiple pockets, that make organizing a breeze when packing.

Best travel backpack for organization

Stm goods dux tech backpack.

Dux Backpack 30 L

Material: ShoreTex (upcycled ocean-bound plastic-derived durable fabric) | Dimensions: 11 x 17.25 x 7.5 in. | Weight: 4 lbs | Capacity: 27 - 35 L | Laptop pocket: 17 in. | Other features: Removable hanging closet, expandable, four secret pockets, luggage strap, padded back support and shoulder straps, water-resistant base, "workzone" pocket with drop-proof laptop and cable storage | Colors available: 6 | Warranty: 2-year warranty

This backpack comes highly recommended for those who want to remain organized while traveling, because it has a laptop compartment and adjustable internal compartments that are complete with velcro dividers.

Most durable travel backpacks

Gopro daytripper backpack.

Daytripper Backpack

Material: Water-resistant 600D polyester with PU5 coating | Dimensions: 9.1 x 10.6 x 5.5 in. | Weight: 1.5 lbs | Capacity: 15 L | Laptop pocket: 15 in. | Other features: Adjustable chest straps, removable waist band, lined laptop/hydration pack compartment, customizable camera storage, GoPro mount | Colors available: 1 | Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty

Road trips often mean hopping in and out of the car as you travel to different locations. The Daytripper backpack is ideal for that since it has protective compartments for cameras and lenses, along with a designated spot for a laptop or hydration bladder for when your family gets thirsty while touring a new place.

Peugeot Voyages Backpack Laptop Tote

Backpack Tote Bag

Material: Water-repellent recycled polyester and canvas, premium leather, antimicrobial lining | Dimensions: 16 x 14 x 6 in. | Weight: 2.7 lbs | Capacity: 24 L | Laptop pocket: 15.6 in. | Other features: Luggage sleeve, RFID protection, tote handles, wide-mouth opening, padded laptop sleeve, external side pockets, detachable backpack straps | Colors available: 2 | Warranty: Limited 2-year warranty

I (Sales) own this! It's the sturdiest bag I've ever had — you can feel how thick and protective it is, and it's water-resistant too. I like the opening at the top because I can see everything immediately when I open it, and the useful easy access pockets on the front. The straps are super soft so my shoulders don't get tired when I fully pack this, and I like that it has a laptop sleeve and that the straps are detachable, and that it can be carried as a tote (which I do half the time).

Best expandable travel backpack

Peak design travel backpack 30l.

Travel Backpack 30 L

Material: Weatherproof recycled 400D nylon canvas external shell, 900D waterproof bottom liner | Weight: 3.17 lbs | Capacity: 27 - 33 L | Laptop pocket: 15 in. | Other features: Padded laptop and tablet sleeves, expandable, expandable side pockets, rear access, stow-away carry straps, luggage sleeve, stow-away chest strap, protected luggage tag holder, threat-deterrent zipper pulls | Colors available: 3 | Warranty: Lifetime guarantee

"We've recently started using the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L and have to say this is a pretty revolutionary bag as well. Might just be our new favorite!" the couple from Nomadosaurus said. Carry-on approved, this backpack can hold up to three packing cubes and has a top pocket, two side pockets as well as internal pockets galore.

Most stylish travel backpack

Vera bradley women's cotton xl campus backpack.

Cotton XL Campus Backpack

Material: Recycled cotton fibers (washable) | Dimensions: 2.0 x 16.5 x 8.5 in. | Weight: 2.35 lbs | Capacity: 30 L | Laptop pocket: 15 in. | Other features: Padded laptop sleeve, padded shoulder straps, adjustable chest strap, padded back panel, trolley sleeve | Colors available: 12 | Warranty: 2-year limited warranty

This whimsical backpack was a Shop TODAY Travel Awards winner, earning best splurge carry-on in the carry-on and weekender bag category. "I’ve had two versions of the weekend travel bag over a decade and each one has lasted me years," said Shop TODAY associate editor Shannon Garlin. "I used it as a carry-on/personal item when I moved to and from Asia, and jammed it with things. The fabric is extremely durable and so is the zipper. It also fits under the seat even when it’s packed to the brim."

What should I look for in a travel backpack?

No matter what you'll be using a travel backpack for or what you consider essential, there are certain features you should think about when shopping.

Size and weight

Your travel style, destination and personal preferences play a big role when you're choosing between a backpack and a suitcase, says expert traveler Jeremy Albelda of the travel blog The World or Bust. "Backpacks offer more mobility and versatility, while suitcases provide better organization and protection for fragile items," he explains.

“Backpacks should be small enough to fit the carry-on requirements for airplanes, which are generally 15 by 8 by 20 [inches] maximum," explains Wilson. "Generally, a 30- to 40-liter backpack [capacity] is suitable for short trips, while a 40- to 60-liter one is better for longer journeys."

But whatever you do, always check with your specific airline. "Airlines are fairly strict on the number of bags you can bring, as well as the size, so make sure any bag you purchase fits domestic flight requirements," Belles advises. "International flights tend to be more forgiving and provide a bit more space for carry-ons."

Compartments

“Start by looking for smart, well thought-out compartments for organizing your items," Wilson says. "Think about what you will typically pack and how you will need to access it."

For instance, Belles says she prefers backpacks with several compartments instead of one large opening — that way, "I can organize based on what I might need during the flight," she explains. Specifically, she goes for backpacks that have separate padded compartments for her laptop and iPad, "as well as a front pocket where I can quickly access things like my passport."

And this advice goes for those going on a road trip , too. Lots of pockets help you easily find your wallet, laptop or cell phone, even when the car is overloaded with suitcases or there are snacks everywhere. Plus, if you're a parent with multiple kids, it'll make travel that much easier: "When [my kids] were smaller, I could dedicate a compartment to each of them," Belles says.

Construction

"Look for something lightweight and durable with an excellent warranty," Wilson advises. She adds that families traveling to theme parks should try to find something that’s easy to carry and will be comfortable for long days on the move.

Other features

For those going to a national park or on an outdoor backpacking trip with friends, you’re going to want to find a bag that’s waterproof for those splash-and-dash summer showers. Frequent traveler and hiking aficionado Garland lists some of the features she goes for: "Rain cover, lots of pockets for organizing, [a] good side pocket that can hold a water bottle (more important for daypacks) or even shoes like flip flops or ballet flats, [and] good waist strap."

Questions about travel backpacks, answered by experts

How do i decide between a backpack and another type of bag for my personal item.

Short answer: It really depends on what type of travel you're embarking on and what type of traveler you are. And that can even vary depending on what stage you are in your life. Belles provides an example: "When flying with my kids, backpacks are substantially easier. ... I could dedicate a compartment to each of them. When I’m traveling to someplace where I will be more active, like Colorado or South Africa, I also rely on a backpack to keep me mobile and moving faster," she explains.

But if you're in doubt, you'll rarely go wrong with a backpack for carrying on.

"They hold a great deal more, but also keep you organized," Belles says, adding, "They distribute the weight across your back so that you don’t end up lopsided as you can with totes, while also freeing up your hands to manage other things, like children."

If I'm only traveling with a backpack, how do I pack clothes in it?

Belles typically steers clear of packing clothes in a backpack, unless it's an emergency. But if you must, she offers the following advice: "As a rule ... I am a “roller” for day-to-day outfits, workout wear and anything more casual. Business or cocktail attire is left hanging or packed in tissue paper to avoid wrinkling."

How we chose the best travel backpacks

In order to find the best travel pillows on the market, Shop TODAY gained expertise from multiple experts. From there, we researched extensively and even tried a handful of the products ourselves, taking special note of each one's durability, ease and other factors. We also took into account the number of verified star ratings and positive reviews, and items that are atop bestseller lists at online retailers.

Meet our experts

Jeremy Albelda is a travel blogger, documenting his travels on The World or Bust.

Misty Belles is the vice president of global relations for Virtuoso Travel , a travel advising and planning company.

Alesha Bradford and Jarryd Salem are the creators of Nomadosaurus, a travel and photography blog, that first started when they showcased their journey from continent to continent-without flying.

Ali Garland is the creator of Travel Made Simple, a travel blog that helps travelers kickstart their trip on the right foot, whether domestically or internationally, solo or with a group.

• Valerie Joy Wilson is a solo female traveler, documenting her travels on her blog, Trusted Travel Girl.

Fran is a former associate SEO editor for Shop TODAY.

The 12 Best Travel Backpack Carry-Ons in 2023

PureWow editors select every item that appears on this page, and the company may earn compensation through affiliate links within the story. All prices are accurate upon date of publish. You can learn more about the affiliate process here .

Packing for a trip can be stressful. Is your checked bag within the weight limit? Will your personal item fit under the seat ? Did you consolidate liquids for TSA ? They’ll let your $150 bottle of first-press Italian olive oil through, right? And, of course, you’re definitely going to be able to juggle it all as you run through the airport just barely making your connecting flight. Here, we’ve rounded up the best travel backpack carry-on options that’ll keep your hands free, fit all the things and tuck neatly into the overhead bin. Vacation stress, be gone!

What Is the Largest Backpack Allowed for Carry-On?

As noted by The Points Guy, the standard carry-on size for domestic airlines is 22 x 14 x 9 inches, though the dimensions may vary slightly by airline. Double-check with your carrier before making an investment in a carry-on travel backpack. Also keep in mind that the carry-on and personal item are not the same—these dimensions refer to the bag you put in the overhead bin.

What Is the Best Backpack to Use as Carry-On Luggage?

The best carry-on travel backpack depends on your packing needs. If you’re headed to another continent for a month of backpacking, you probably want to consider the expandable Peak Design Travel Backpack or The North Face Base Camp Duffle , both of which are built for rugged outdoor activities. On a business trip? Try the streamlined Asenlin Travel Backpack . Those traveling with youngsters will probably appreciate the lightweight Fjallraven Kanken Classic Backpack, which holds plenty of snacks. Read on for the 12 best travel backpack carry-ons, no matter your destination.

The Best Travel Backpacks at a Glance

• Best Travel Backpack for Women: Calpak Terra Backpack
• Best Backpack for Business Travel: Lululemon Everyday Backpack 2.0
• Best Travel Laptop Backpack: Asenlin Travel Backpack
• Best Lightweight Travel Backpack: The North Face Base Camp Duffle
• Best Small Travel Backpack: Dagne Dover Dakota Backpack
• Best Carry-On Backpack for International Travel: L.L. Bean Continental Travel Pack
• Best Travel Backpack for Petites: Tumi Just In Case Backpack
• Most Expandable: Peak Design Travel Backpack
• Best Waterproof Backpack for Travel: Yeti Panga Backpack
• Most Affordable: Fjallraven Kanken Classic Backpack
• Suitcase-Style: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack
• Best 40-Liter Travel Backpack: Baboon to the Moon Go-Bag

The Best Travel Essentials, According to Travel Bloggers, Family Travelers and General Adventures

Best Travel Backpack for Women

1. calpak terra backpack.

• Why We Love It: made from recycled polyester, fun colors, padded and adjustable shoulder straps, trolley sleeve
• Capacity: 26L
• Material: recycled polyester
• Dimensions: 18x12x7.5 inches

The Calpak Terra backpack is on PureWow fashion editor Abby Hepworth ’s wish list. A clamshell opening and 17-inch laptop sleeve make stashing the essentials easy. Plus, it’s water-resistant and converts from backpack to duffle with a trolley sleeve. There’s a roomy main pocket with compression straps, plus multiple integrated pockets for smaller items. It's made of recycled polyester, which repurposed 27 plastic bottles.

“I went back and forth trying to decide whether or not I should buy this bag,” writes one Calpak reviewer, Taylor. “Well, I did, and I cannot be more thankful. I am a frequent traveler and I refuse to check any bags. This bag has helped me fit more things than I ever have on my trips. The laptop sleeve in the back is absolutely amazing. Seriously, just buy this.”

Best Backpack for Business Travel

2. lululemon everyday backpack 2.0.

• Why We Love It: sleek, water repellent, neutral colors, exterior padded laptop sleeve
• Capacity: 23L
• Material: polyester
• Dimensions: 11.4x5.9x16.5 inches

PureWow’s beauty director, Jenny Jin , loves her Lululemon Everyday backpack, which has a 16-inch exterior laptop sleeve. Jin appreciates that it can hold an extra set of clothes, while the smaller compartments corral her plethora of lip balms. There are also two slots on either side of the backpack that keep water bottles and umbrellas in easy reach.

“I take my Lululemon everywhere,” she says. “The material is easy to wipe down and it has that handy strap in the back to slide over my suitcase handle when I'm walking through the airport.”

Best Travel Laptop Backpack

3. asenlin travel backpack.

• Why We Love It: wheeled variation, comes with packing cubes, laptop sleeve, reflective belt  
• Capacity: 40L
• Dimensions: 18.5x13x9 inches

“I love this travel backpack because you can open it wide like a luggage and pack so much stuff without it being too bulky,” notes PureWow associate editor Chelsea Candelario . “You can carry it on your back or tuck the straps and hold it like a carry on. I also appreciate that it comes with so many compartments for my laptop, water bottle, etc.” Other notable features we love: handy packing cubes, compression straps in the main compartment and a quick conversion into a duffle.

Best Lightweight Travel Backpack

4. the north face base camp duffle, the north face.

• Why We Love It: wide color selection, made from recycled materials, company lifetime warranty
• Capacity: 50L
• Dimensions: 13x21x13 inches

“This duffel from The North Face comes in a ton of different sizes, most of which come with removable/adjustable backpack straps for easy carrying,” says Hepworth. “The small is the perfect carry-on size. I love that it’s essentially one giant hole so you can organize as you like and really utilize every centimeter of space in there, and the top opens really wide to give you easy access to all your things.” This bag also scores points for its durability, water resistance and padded side handles. The handles can be used to tote your bag or wear it on your shoulders. A mesh pocket on the D-flap will keep smaller trinkets organized.

Best Small Travel Backpack

5. dagne dover dakota backpack, dagne dover.

• Why We Love It: recycled lining, shoe bag, trolley pass-through, various sizes and colors
• Capacity: 16L (medium)
• Material: recycled plastic, neoprene
• Dimensions: 11.5x5x17 inches (medium)

The Dagne Dover Dakota backpack comes in three sizes, all of which comply with carry-on constraints. The medium rendition will accommodate a 13-inch laptop (16 inches for the large) and comes with four exterior and three interior pockets. The vegan bag has a lining made of recycled plastic bottles and is lightweight, clocking in around two pounds. “I love all the organizational features and that it even comes with a bag to keep shoes separate,” notes PureWow’s assistant commerce editor Natalie LaBarbera . Other reviewers also praised the backpack’s organizational features, which has garnered it nearly 3,000 reviews for an average of 4.8 stars. 

Best Carry-On Backpack for International Travel

6. l.l. bean continental travel pack.

• Why We Love It: made from recycled materials, water- and abrasion- resistant, trolley sleeve, stowable straps
• Capacity: 43L
• Dimensions: 22x13x10 inches

Crossing countries and continents? The L.L. Bean Continental Travel Pack is your friend. With a 43-liter capacity, it’s roomy. The interior has two separate packing compartments, making it easy to store dirty and clean laundry. It also comes with a shoe bag. The backpack opens like a clamshell, has top and side grab handles and leather zipper pulls for a luxe touch. There are also pockets galore with built-in organization. “This backpack carryon can hold A LOT,” shares Barb, a L.L. Bean reviewer. “It is a square shape and therefore one can really pack it nicely. Front compartments make [it easy to access your laptop, phone, windbreaker etc.]”

Best Travel Backpack for Petites

7. tumi just in case backpack.

• Why We Love It: stain and water resistant, folds flat, stylish, lightweight
• Capacity: 15L
• Material: nylon
• Dimensions: 15.5 x 12.3 x 4.5 inches

At just over half a pound, this Tumi backpack was made for all those things you might need “just in case.” Small laptop or tablet, cosmetics, hand sanitizer, sunglasses—it all fits neatly into the main compartment, front zip pocket or detachable interior zip pouch. “I love that it has padded laptop sleeve inside because I don't go anywhere without mine, and it slips easily over my luggage handle,” says PureWow commerce editor Olivia Dubyak . Plus, the bag itself will fold flat into its own zippered bag for convenient storage.

Most Expandable

8. peak design travel backpack, peak design.

• Why We Love It: made from recycled materials, packing and tech accessories available, can compress to 30L, theft-deterrent zippers, quick-access side pockets, lifetime guarantee
• Capacity: 45L
• Material: recycled nylon
• Dimensions: 9 x 22 x 13 inches

Peak Design’s travel backpack is billed as one that does it all, and the praise is high. “Easily the best backpack I’ve used,” one reviewer writes. “I bought this backpack prior to a domestic trip for five days. It held all the clothes and items I wanted for the trip. All of the external straps stow in the bag, which makes it fit in the overhead compartments of domestic flights really well.” Additionally, the brand creates lines of packing and camera cubes. The backpack can compress to 30 liters or expand to 45. There are numerous access points and expandable side pockets, but the brand also thought ahead: the zippers are theft-deterrent. With a luggage pass-through and weatherproof shell, it’s a prime pick for any adventure.

Best Waterproof Backpack for Travel

9. yeti panga backpack.

• Why We Love It: waterproof, leakproof, laptop sleeve
• Capacity: 28L
• Material: nylon, thermoplastic polyurethane
• Dimensions: 12.5 x 7 x 20 inches

You might recognize this brand for their coolers and drinkware, but as it turns out, Yeti makes travel backpacks, too. This one is waterproof (up to a meter for 30 minutes), puncture-proof and leakproof with a laptop sleeve and interior mesh pocket to keep the small things organized. One reviewer praised this backpack as the “eighth wonder of the world. This bag blew away my expectations. The heavy-duty engineering makes this backpack virtually indestructible. Spacious, comfortable, and waterproof...what more could you ask for?”

Most Affordable

10. fjallraven kanken classic backpack, fjallraven kanken.

• Why We Love It: wide color selection, dirt- and water- resistant, ergonomic shoulder straps,
• Capacity: 16L
• Material: Vinylon F, polypropylene
• Dimensions: 14.9 x 10.6 x 5.1 inches

Layout, compartments, materials, weight, reviews

“I love the classic Kanken backpack,” shares PureWow’s operations director of branded content, Rachel Gulmi . “It seriously fits so much stuff and is comfortable on your back. I also like the top handles for another way to carry it. The material is durable and it comes in so many fun colors. It's my go-to travel backpack!” The classic backpack has a cavernous main compartment with a removable seat pad. Two side pockets give quick access to water bottles and umbrellas, and the front zip pocket holds all the little trinkets.

Suitcase-Style

11. cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack.

• Why We Love It: lifetime warranty and repairs, transforms into duffle, interior mesh compartments, security zippers, rain cover
• Capacity: 35L
• Material: thermoplastic polyurethane-coated polyester
• Dimensions: 22 x 12 x 10 inches

“I just bought this, and I'm already obsessed,” says Pam Masin, PureWow’s director of affiliate strategy. “It opens like a suitcase and has four zippered mesh compartments inside, including a main compartment on one side where the bulk of your clothes go, and then three smaller sections on the other to keep items like shoes and toiletries secure. Cotopaxi really levels up the organization with a padded laptop sleeve accessible through an exterior zipper (making airline security a breeze). There’s a top compartment for items you want easy access to while traveling (like headphones, your passport, and a book). But the coolest feature? Not only does the bag use YKK zippers, which lock in place, but around the zippers are loops of fabric that act as a security system so the bag cannot be easily opened by someone else. The only drawback here is that it does take an extra second to unzip this bag yourself, but that's fine by me if I know my stuff is secure.”

Best 40-Liter Travel Backpack

12. baboon to the moon go-bag, baboon to the moon.

• Why We Love It: fun colors, limited-edition drops, lifetime warranty, lockable zippers, external passport pocket
• Material: PVC, polyester
• Dimensions: 10.5 x 20.5 x 12.5 inches

“I have the small Go-Bag and it works like a charm for weekend trips,” says PureWow editorial assistant Delia Curtis . “It can hold three to five days’ worth of clothes, has plenty of zipped compartments for ample storage and organization, adjustable straps, and comes in such fun colors! It’s super easy to clean (I’m talking Wet Wipes easy) and has a waterproof outer shell. They frequently collaborate with artists to create patterned inner linings for their bags.”

Want to know which buzzy products are *really* worth buying? Sign up for our shopping newsletter to uncover our favorite finds.

The Best Luggage Sets to Buy for Your Most Amazing Trip Yet

Why You Should Trust Us

Marissa Wu is a PureWow Associate Editor with a focus on SEO. She covers everything from fashion and home trends to travel, beauty, wellness, family and food. Her work has also appeared in Southern Living, Martha Stewart and Forbes Vetted .

PureWow is the best friend you never had when it comes to finding the best, most useful lifestyle products online. Founded in 2010, our company’s editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which ones are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series, which sees each and every item we test being ranked on a 100-point scale of awesomeness, to the painstakingly curated lists our fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family editors create as vertical experts, you can trust that our recommendations include some of the greatest items you’ll find on the internet. Whether you're looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women’s walking shoes that won’t hurt your feet, we’ve got you covered.

Associate SEO Editor

• Mattress Toppers
• Sheets & Bedding
• Sleep Products
• Cleaning & Laundry
• Heating & Cooling
• Home Office
• Kitchen & Dining
• Storage & Organization
• Wine & Bar
• Accessories
• Handbags & Purses
• Lingerie & Sleepwear
• Outdoor & Fitness Apparel
• Kids Clothes & Accessories
• Pregnancy & Postpartum
• Toys & Books
• Apparel & Accessories
• Camping & Hiking
• Fishing & Hunting
• Tennis & Racket Sports
• Tools & Tech
• Training & Recovery
• Water Sports
• Winter Sports
• Personal Products
• Wellness & Self Care
• Computers, Tablets & Accessories
• Online Tools
• Smart Home Devices
• Smartphones, Smartwatches & Accessories
• Hotels & Lodging
• Travel Products
• Father's Day
• Mother's Day
• Valentine's Day
• Amazon Prime Day
• Beauty & Grooming
• Tech & Electronics
• Travel Deals
• Mattress & Sleep

The Best Underseat Luggage To Make Your Next Flight Hassle-Free

• Share to Facebook
• Share to Twitter
• Share to Linkedin

From long-haul flights to hour-long trips, having your travel essentials (think: snacks, books and headphones) right at your feet is a major convenience. Beyond that, your onboard personal item can even hold a few days’ worth of clothes, potentially eliminating your need for a carry-on. The best underseat luggage easily slides into tight spaces, while still fitting all of the demands of modern air travel. For instance, our top pick, the Thule Subterra Boarding Bag , is designed with helpful features like a laptop compartment and a trolley sleeve for attaching to your rolling luggage.

The best underseat luggage is compact and thoughtfully designed, sliding into tight spaces without ... [+] sacrificing storage space.

When it comes to underseat luggage, functionality and durability are the two most important qualities to prioritize. Look for bags with rip-resistant fabrics (or crack-resistant shells), strategically placed pockets and, with certain styles, comfy shoulder straps. During our research, we consulted with Forbes Vetted’s senior travel editor and globetrotter Astrid Taran to select the best underseat luggage available right now, from travel backpacks to duffel bags and beyond.

• Best Underseat Luggage Overall: Thule Subterra 23L Boarding Bag
• Best Underseat Luggage With Wheels: Travelpro Maxlite 5 Underseat Bag
• Best Underseat Duffel Bag: Troubadour Embark Compact Duffel
• Best Underseat Tote Bag: Cuyana System 13-Inch Tote
• Best Underseat Backpack: Troubadour Compact Apex Backpack
• Best Underseat Hardshell Luggage: Calpak Hue Mini Carry-On Luggage
• Most Spacious Underseat Luggage: Briggs and Riley Underseat Duffle
• Best Underseat Luggage For Business Travel : Dagne Dover Berlin Travel Brief

Best Underseat Luggage Overall

The winner on all fronts, thule subterra 23l boarding bag.

Dimensions (LxWxH): 12.2 x 7.9 x 17.3 inches | Weight: 2.1 pounds | Colors: 2 total, including Black and Ember

There’s a lot to like about the Thule Subterra 23L boarding bag. It has a clean, functional design and comes in two dark color options (great for hiding stains). The best part? It’s wrapped in a durable, 800D nylon that will undoubtedly stand up to underseat air travel. The Subterra’s roomy interior has enough space for necessary tech essentials plus extraneous gear to get through a layover or a longer direct flight. It also has designated storage for a 15-inch laptop, as well as a trolley sleeve for attaching to rolling luggage. Beyond that, Thule bags are simply built tough—you can count on them to last for years.

The 2024 Forbes Vetted Best Product Awards are here: Explore our 150 top-recommended items across categories after extensive research and testing.

Best Underseat Luggage With Wheels

Easily movable with true durability, travelpro maxlite 5 underseat bag.

Dimensions (LxWxH): 17.5 x 8.5 x 14.5 inches | Weight: 5.5 pounds | Available colors: 9 total, including Midnight Blue and Orchid Pink Purple

You’ve probably seen pilot and flight attendant luggage donned with the Travelpro brand—and that’s because the company makes solid, sturdy bags air travel professionals can rely on. They also happen to be a brand of choice for professional frequent flyers. Inside, the bag has one main storage area and a lining made from 100% post-consumer recycled plastic bottles. Travelers can rely on a well-built set of wheels and a cemented handle that can maneuver around tight spaces on-plane with ease. Outside, a stain- and water-resistant fabric makes this a definite winner. 

Best Underseat Duffel Bag

For a more athletic-focused traveler.

Saks Fifth Avenue

Troubadour Embark Compact Duffel

Dimensions (LxWxH): 18 x 7.5 x 11 inches | Weight: 2.9 pounds | Colors: 2 total, including Black and Navy

For the traveler who needs just as much style as function in their underseat luggage, this bag from Troubador is a great choice. The dedicated shoe pocket (with air circulation) is a nice touch, especially for overnights where a second pair is required. In the main pocket, there’s tidy essential storage, with varied pocket sizes for all of your necessary gear. Plus, it’s a handsome bag draped in a recycled polyester fabric and vegan leather trim that adds a touch of class to a workhorse piece. 

Best Underseat Tote Bag

Customizable and chic, cuyana system 13-inch tote.

Dimensions (HxWxD): 10 x 13.25 x 5 inches | Weight: 1.9 pounds | Colors: 6 total, including Caramel and Stone

If you’re already bringing a carry-on or checked bag on your trip, you may prefer to carry a simple tote bag onto your flight in lieu of more traditional luggage. This 13-inch leather bag from Cuyana earned the top spot on our list of the best travel totes ; it has a designated laptop sleeve and an internal pouch for smaller items like your wallet, passport and phone. It comes in versatile neutral hues that complement any outfit, so you can head straight from the airport to your dinner reservation with ease. There’s also the option to add gold foil monogramming for a personalized touch.

Best Underseat Backpack

Tidy, subtle and classic, troubadour compact apex backpack.

Dimensions (HxWxD): 16 x 11.5 x 5.5 inches | Weight: 2 pounds | Colors: 3 total, including Navy and Obsidian Green

Troubadour makes the list a second time for this well-suited backpack that’s ideal for the business traveler. The front zipper opening offers easy access to smaller items when you’re crammed into a middle seat along with additional integration inside the bag for those who need more tech space. Outside, a sleeve strap means you can stow this on top of your rolling bag while sprinting through the airport between layovers. The recycled polyester exterior will hold its own for any unplanned spills.

Best Underseat Hardshell Luggage

A fine mix of fashion and function, calpak hue mini carry-on luggage.

Dimensions (HxWxD): 16 x 14 x 8.5 inches | Weight: 6.4 pounds | Colors: 6 total, including Hazel and Mauve

True to its name, the Hue Mini is one of the smaller pieces in Calpak’s range, but there’s still plenty of versatility to go around. With 31 liters of total space, there’s enough for an overnight stay and some change. The luxury of a symmetrical shape is that it very easily tucks into the underseat area of an airplane or that last bit of available overhead space. Plus, it’s fun and bright, ensuring it will stand out if you ever need to check it.

Most Spacious Underseat Luggage

For those who need to cram in as much as possible.

Briggs and Riley

Briggs and Riley Underseat Duffle

Dimensions (HxWxD): 10.5 x 16.5 x 11.5 inches | Weight: 2.8 pounds

There are a number of bold features built into this bag that make it an excellent candidate for underseat travel. Primarily, the number and functionality of its pockets means you can fit quite a lot into a soft frame that leaves a little space underneath your seat. The separate water bottle storage is also a nice touch, especially when you want to remove the risk of your beverage leaking on your precious tech items. Lastly, it has ample interior access, should you need to remove something to get through security at the last possible moment. 

Best Underseat Luggage For Business Travel

A sleek look for important meetings.

Dagne Dover

Dagne Dover Berlin Travel Brief

Dimensions (LxWxH): 16 x 4.5 x 12.5 inches | Weight: 2.1 pounds | Colors: 3 total, including Ash and Onyx

Dagne Dover’s Berlin Travel Brief is ideal for those who need to tote around a lot of tech—it offers space for two 16-inch laptops and two phones. In addition, padded slip pockets provide extra space for smaller work essentials such as a notebook or writing utensils, while a neoprene pouch accommodates your water bottle. A luggage sleeve allows you to slip the bag onto your rolling suitcase as you make your way to your final destination. The padded crossbody strap is removable, giving you the option to hold the bag like a traditional briefcase.

The Best Washer-Dryer Combos That Are Compact Yet Mighty

The best gardening tools to grow flowers, vegetables and more, why trust forbes vetted.

• In addition to writing, researching and publishing dozens of luggage stories across the board, the Forbes Vetted team has spent many hours on the road and in the sky with carry-on luggage , weekender bags and travel backpacks of every kind.
• Product selections are overseen by senior travel editor Astrid Taran , a seasoned globetrotter who has visited 35 countries throughout the course of her career.
• This article is regularly updated to ensure all product selections still meet the criteria for their respective categories. In its most recent March 2024 update, travel writer Claire Epting reevaluated our picks and introduced the Thule Subterra Boarding Bag , the Cuyana System Tote and the Dagne Dover Berlin Travel Brief to the list.

What To Consider When Selecting Underseat Luggage

There are a few key factors you should keep in mind when picking an underseat bag. Below, we’ve broken down each one to better inform your purchasing decision.

The biggest factor when considering underseat luggage is size. If the bag doesn’t fit underneath the seat, then you’ll be asked to place it above you in the overhead bin. It’s also important to make sure you don’t push the outer limits of the dimension maximums, since you also need a place to rest your feet. In our experience, it’s better to give up 2 to 3 inches of space so you don’t end up more crammed in the seat than you already are.

It’s almost a sure bet that your underseat bag will get stained, kicked around and generally pushed into the framing of the seat in front of you, so it’s crucial that it can stand up to all of that wear. Hardshell bags fare a bit better, but soft-sided bags and backpacks can move more to give your feet a bit more space. In either case, you want to find a strong nylon, polyester or leather bag that can bend, flex and fold to the demands of commercial air travel.

Additional Features

When comparing different pieces of underseat luggage, consider which features are most important to you. For those who frequently go on trips for work, a bag with a built-in laptop compartment will prove useful. Meanwhile, those who hate carrying bags on their shoulders will benefit from one with rolling wheels. If you’re traveling with additional luggage, look for a bag with a trolley sleeve—this design feature allows you to slip your bag over the handle of your wheeled suitcase.

What Is The Best Size For Underseat Luggage?

Every domestic airline has a different standard for underseat carry-on sizing. To give a good example of the range you should expect to find on your flights, American Airlines has a dimension maximum of 18 inches long, 14 inches wide and 8 inches high, while United Airlines has underseat dimensions of 17 inches long, 10 inches wide and 9 inches high.

These dimensions (and associated weight limits) are subject to regular change, so it’s critical to check with your airline before you head to the airport. Of course, international airlines will have a whole other set of dimensions and regulations to consider for underseat bags. Roomy first-class seats may have a few extra inches to spare, and the main cabin middle seat might have more room than its neighbors.

Is An Underseat Bag The Same As A Carry-On Bag?

While both carry-ons and underseat bags accompany you aboard the airplane, they fall into two separate categories of luggage. Underseat luggage is typically classified as your “personal item,” which is expected to fit underneath the seat in front of you. Carry-on luggage is larger in size and stored in the overhead bin for the duration of your flight. All U.S. airlines allow for one personal item per passenger free of charge, but some require an extra fee for carry-on bags.

Plant Therapy

• Editorial Standards
• Reprints & Permissions

• Clothing, Shoes & Jewelry
• Luggage & Travel Gear
• Travel Duffels

Add to your order

• Buy a lot of stuff on Amazon? Tons of items eligible for coverage, from the latest tech like laptops, game consoles, and TVs, to major appliances, sporting goods, tools, toys, mattresses, personal care, furniture, and more.
• Accidents happen. That’s why for your portable products we cover accidental damage from handling such as drops, spills and cracked screens. We also cover electrical and mechanical malfunctions, power surges, and wear and tear.
• Past and future purchases covered. 30 days after you are enrolled, all eligible past purchases (up to 1 year prior to enrollment) and future eligible purchases made on Amazon will be covered by your plan as long as you are enrolled.
• Fast, easy claims. Frustration-free claims, with most filed in minutes. We will fix it, replace it, or reimburse you with an Amazon e-gift card for the purchase price of your product (excluding tax). File at Asurion.com/amazon.
• No hidden fees. For just $16.99 a month + tax you’re covered for up to $5,000 in claims per 12-month period. *THIS PROGRAM IS MONTH-TO-MONTH AND WILL CONTINUE UNTIL CANCELED* Coverage for all products ends 30 days after the plan is canceled. Cancel any time.

Enjoy fast, free delivery, exclusive deals, and award-winning movies & TV shows with Prime Try Prime and start saving today with fast, free delivery

Amazon Prime includes:

Fast, FREE Delivery is available to Prime members. To join, select "Try Amazon Prime and start saving today with Fast, FREE Delivery" below the Add to Cart button.

• Cardmembers earn 5% Back at Amazon.com with a Prime Credit Card.
• Unlimited Free Two-Day Delivery
• Streaming of thousands of movies and TV shows with limited ads on Prime Video.
• A Kindle book to borrow for free each month - with no due dates
• Listen to over 2 million songs and hundreds of playlists
• Unlimited photo storage with anywhere access

Important:  Your credit card will NOT be charged when you start your free trial or if you cancel during the trial period. If you're happy with Amazon Prime, do nothing. At the end of the free trial, your membership will automatically upgrade to a monthly membership.

Return this item for free

Free returns are available for the shipping address you chose. You can return the item for any reason in new and unused condition: no shipping charges

• Go to your orders and start the return
• Select the return method

This item has been tested to certify it can ship safely in its original box or bag to avoid unnecessary packaging. Since 2015, we have reduced the weight of outbound packaging per shipment by 41% on average, that’s over 2 million tons of packaging material.

Asurion Complete Protect: One plan covers all eligible past and future purchases on Amazon

Image Unavailable

• To view this video download Flash Player

Funarty Expandable Foldable Travel Duffel Bag with Removable Wheels, Tote Bag with Folding Storage Space, Gym Bag, Shoulder Weekender Bag for Women Travel (Black)

Purchase options and add-ons

• 【Dry Wet Separated】The high density water resistant material can help you to separate dry items and wet items, if you have wet clothes or towel, you can put it in this crossbody bag.
• 【Folded Storage Space】Folding space at the bottom of the bag. Before Folded:(H*W*T）40*31.5*21cm /15.7*12.4*8.3 inch,After Folded: (H*W*T）40*61*21cm /15.7*24*8.3 inch(For reference only, please refer to the actual measurement).It can adapt to your every need.
• 【Removable wheels】The bottom of the bag is equipped with 4 removable wheels, so you can carry it on your back or drag it on the ground.It all depends on your personal needs.
• 【Wide Application】This tote bag is a perfect reliable companion for both indoor and outdoor activities.It is a great shoulder bag for workout, travel, sports activity, tennis, basketball, yoga, fishing, hunting, camping, hiking and many outdoor activities. Suitable for gym sport bag, travel duffel bag, travel holdall bag, gym holdall, etc.
• 【Airplane Friendly】The perfect carry-on compliant bag for airline travel. Your ideal overnight weekend boarding bag for business or personal travel.

Buy it with

What other items do customers buy after viewing this item?

Product information

Warranty & support, product description.

What's in the box

Looking for specific info, customer reviews.

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

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

Reviews with images

• Sort reviews by Top reviews Most recent Top reviews

Top reviews from the United States

There was a problem filtering reviews right now. please try again later..

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