Carry Guide: Find the Best Travel Backpack for You

So here’s the thing. There’s no ultimate best travel backpack to suit everyone at any time, anywhere. It’s impossible for one bag to meet every carry need and adapt to every carry environment. But then, you don’t actually need a bag that does that. You need a travel bag that’s best suited to your particular needs. So we’ve put together this carry guide to help you think about what those needs may be, what features will meet those needs, and to dish up a selection of solid packs that may just be right for you.

Why backpack over luggage? 

But first, why might you want a travel backpack over other luggage? If you’re set on embracing one-bag travel or know you’ll be encountering a wide variety of settings, from stairs to cobbled streets to rocky trails, skipping the wheels and opting for a pack will make traveling easier. A backpack lets you move more easily through crowds and changing terrain than with a wheeled bag in tow. And it keeps your hands free too. And hey, if you need to check luggage, you still might require a great carry-on backpack by your side.

So if you’re keen to find the best travel backpack for you, these are some considerations to bear in mind.

Weight versus durability

Those packing pounds are precious and overweight baggage fees are certainly to be avoided whenever possible. So shedding some weight in your actual bag will help you stick within carry-on limits. But you also want it to be durable enough to withstand demanding travel use. After all, if it fails that leaves you and all your travel possessions in a tricky situation. In general, you may find yourself needing to sacrifice light weight for increased durability. But on the flip side, you don’t want to be carrying a tank on your back either. Ultimately it comes down to a balance that suits your needs. If you know you’ll be rough on your bag and ask it to endure tough use, it’s better to take the weight penalty for greater durability. The less strain it needs to endure, the more weight savings you might make.

Think about how durable the material is (is it Cordura or X-Pac or canvas, for example?) and consider things like zipper and hardware quality too. For example, you’ll want a burlier zipper for the main compartment where there will be more tension than on pockets. A quality name such as YKK is a good pick. Also look for good warranties. You want a bag that will last. But if something does happen to go wrong, a warranty can be reassuring.

Weather resistance

Sometimes it’s sunny. Sometimes it’s a drenching downpour. You should be prepared for both. Think about features such as water-resistant materials, water-resistant zippers for tech pockets, and raincovers for added protection. Most travel situations won’t require completely waterproof bags so water-resistant should suffice for the majority of your trips. Plus you can always get waterproof pouches to store valuables and tech you don’t want to get wet.

Size versus usable space

If you can manage it, opt for a bag that’s suitable for carry-on use. This lets you keep your luggage with you and reduce the risk of losing it. It also helps you avoid checked luggage fees. Of course, it’s important to confirm carry-on dimensions with your intended airline to ensure your pack fits the bill. But then things can start to get tricky with usable space. Two bags may claim to have the same volume but offer differences in the amount of usable space they provide. Awkward designs, tapering silhouettes and rigid materials with no give to them can restrict the gear you can pack. If you want space flexibility consider expandable designs, along with options for securing larger items externally to the pack, like PALS webbing.

Aesthetics

Sure, you might be a tourist. But that doesn’t mean you want to look like one and draw unnecessary attention to yourself. The aesthetics of your travel backpack play a big role here, not to mention affecting versatility. Outdoorsy packs will look out of place in urban settings. Discreet and minimalist designs with subdued colors stand out less in a crowd. And such designs are easier to transition from a work meeting to a weekend away.

If you need a bag for work and play, consider one that lets you stow the straps and carry it briefcase-style for a more professional look. This also helps reduce the potential for snagging when fitting the bag in overhead bins, under seats or in small vehicle trunks. A pack with a slim profile is also easier for moving through crowds with. All that being said, you should feel happy with the style of bag you’re carrying. And there’s no reason you can’t let a little bit of personality shine through in fabric or colorway choices. Just bear in mind how versatile you want that bag to be and how much you want to blend in.

Access

How easy is it to get to the main compartment for packing and retrieving gear? Clamshells or lay-flat designs are good options for being able to reach items easily throughout the main compartment. And quick-access pockets will keep essential items at the ready. Carrying tech? Dedicated easy-access storage for a laptop or tablet will come in handy too, especially for going through airport security.

Comfort

The degree of carry comfort you require will depend on how much load you’re carrying and where you’re traveling. Some packs also come in specific men’s and women’s options to better suit different body types. But comfy padded, ergonomic shoulder straps are pretty much a requirement for any good travel pack. If you need to carry a lot of weight you may want a hip belt, load lifters and a sternum strap to help stabilize and support the load. However, hip belts do add weight and aren’t necessary for lighter loads, so you can shed weight when required by choosing a bag with a removable hip belt.

Also a breathable back panel with features such as air mesh or air vents can assist in keeping you cooler. This is particularly useful for traveling in hotter and humid climates. However, even in colder climates you’re unlikely to be able to completely avoid sweat if you’re walking around for an extended period of time with a load on your back. Being able to carry the pack as a shoulder bag or with a handle can help keep your back cooler.

Organization

If you favor packing cubes, you may prefer a main compartment with minimal interior organization. However, features such as internal dividers can help you adapt to different loads and you may still appreciate a few interior pockets for stashing smaller items. Regardless of interior organization preferences, pick a pack with at least a couple of quick-access pockets. These come in useful for storing items such as a passport, tickets, pen, wallet, phone or water bottle within easy reach so you don’t need to rummage for them and undo your careful packing. You might also want options for carrying bulky items such as sleeping mats, tripods, pouches and the like externally. If so, look for features such as external stretch pockets, attachment straps and loops or webbing to secure carabiners.

Security

You should mostly have your bag on you or close by during your travels. But opportunistic thieves may still chance their luck. Security features such as lockable zippers, anti-theft zipper loops, and discreet storage pockets for valuables can help deter them and protect your gear. Ultimately if they’re determined enough they’ll get in but such features make your bag a less appealing target and increase the chances that thieves will pass over it for an easier alternative.

Now that you’ve got some useful considerations in mind, get inspired with our pick of quality travel packs that we’ve tried and tested that could be joining you on your next trip…

Osprey Farpoint 40 (from US$98.74)

Osprey’s Farpoint 40 offers a lot of travel-friendly features in a versatile design for urban or outdoor use. Wide-opening front panel access allows for easy packing, while the stowable suspension system reduces snag potential in tight spaces. Top and side carry handles and a removable shoulder strap aid with portability. Plus a hip belt, sternum strap and exterior compression straps help stabilize the load too. Look inside and you’ll find interior compression straps and a choice of pockets including a padded laptop sleeve to keep your gear in order. And it’s backed by Osprey’s All Mighty Guarantee for peace of mind.

Weight: 1.44 kg; 3.17 lbs.

Dimensions (L, W, D): 54 x 35 x 23cm; 22″ x 14″ x 9″ (M/L)

This might suit you if you’re searching for:

– Great value

– Durable design

– A great warranty

– A lockable compartment for tech

– Easily packable

– A pack that can travel and hike

REI Co-op Ruckpack 40 (US$139)

The REI Co-op Ruckpack 40 does a solid job of blending outdoor and urban functionality. The backpack straps and hip belt are stowable for tidy storage, with side handles for grab-and-go maneuverability. In terms of organization the pack offers external trekking pole attachments, daisy chains, water bottle holders and quick-access pockets. The front panel opens wide for ready access to the main compartment where you’ll find further pockets including storage for a hydration bladder or laptop. The pack also includes a raincover and comes in men’s and women’s versions to suit different body types.

Weight: 1.9 kg; 4 lbs. 3 oz.

Dimensions: 61 x 33 x 25cm; 24″ x 13″ x 10″

This might suit you if you’re searching for:

– Urban and outdoor flexibility

– Options for men’s and women’s specific fits

– Stowable shoulder straps and hip belt

– Raincover for weather protection

The North Face Overhaul 40 (US$144)

The North Face Overhaul 40 fuses urban-friendly styling with practical organization to suit a variety of trips. The lay-flat laptop compartment makes getting through airport security easier, while multiple pockets are on hand to stash travel essentials, work tools and EDC items within easy reach. Plus there’s a separate storage space for shoes or dirty laundry. The stowable shoulder straps and hip belt clean up the silhouette for carrying the bag briefcase-style, with a luggage pass-through sleeve for securing to rolling luggage if needed.

Weight: 1.45 kg; 3 lbs. 3 oz.

Dimensions: 53 x 30 x 18cm; 21″ x 12″ x 7″

This might suit you if you’re searching for:

– Urban-ready design that adapts to work or downtime use

– Multiple pockets and compartments for organization

– Lay-flat tech compartment

– Separate storage for shoes or dirty laundry

– Luggage pass-through sleeve

Eagle Creek Global Companion 40L (US$159)

Eagle Creek’s Global Companion 40L combines the mobility of a carry-on pack with the convenience of a clamshell suitcase. The clamshell main compartment lets you quickly pack or reach items, with exterior access to a 17″ laptop sleeve to easily get to tech. A handy range of front pockets keep quick-access items tidy, while a bottom pocket stores shoes or laundry separately. The pack, which comes in men’s and women’s options, also provides lockable zippers, a comfy hip belt with a pocket, a sternum strap with a whistle, and a raincover. And it’s backed by Eagle Creek’s No Matter What™ Warranty.

Weight: 1.62 kg; 3 lbs. 9 oz.

Dimensions: 35 x 55 x 20 cm; 13.75″ x 21.5″ x 8″

This might suit you if you’re searching for:

– Clamshell main compartment for easy packing and access

– Separate storage for shoes or dirty laundry

– Options for men’s and women’s specific fit

– Lockable zippers

– An included raincover

– Hip belt, load lifters and sternum strap for load support and carry comfort

– A trusty warranty

Cotopaxi Allpa 28L (US$170) and 35L (US$220)

Available in 28L and 35L carry-on options to suit a range of loads, the Cotopaxi Allpa is a versatile pack for weekend getaways, work trips or longer holidays. Both sizes feature a clamshell main compartment with interior organization and an exterior laptop sleeve. Durable, weather-resistant construction and an included raincover embrace regular use in all weathers, with useful grab handles on all sides for convenient portability. You can also stow the shoulder straps and hip belt when not needed, while anti-theft zippers help keep your gear safe on the go. And if you like a bit of personality in your pack, the pops of color will hit the mark and add a little fun to the journey. Added bonus? Cotopaxi is a certified B Corporation, so you’ll get that added feel-good buzz that your pack purchase is spreading a little good in the world too.

Weight 28L: 1.47 kg; 3lbs. 4oz.

Weight 35L: 1.56 kg; 3 lbs. 7oz.

Dimensions 28L: 48 x 30 x 23cm; 19″ x 12″ x 9″

Dimensions 35L: 51 x 30 x 33cm; 20″ x 12″ x 13″

This might suit you if you’re searching for:

– Clamshell access to quickly reach gear

– Durable, weather-resistant build with included raincover for added protection

– Stowable shoulder straps and hip belt

– Anti-theft zippers

– Color pops for added fun

– Dedicated quick-access tech storage

Tortuga Setout Divide Backpack (US$179)

Sometimes you need to carry a lot. Other times you’re traveling with a more minimalist setup. Tortuga’s Setout Divide has you covered regardless. The design expands from 26L to 34L to accommodate changing loads. And regardless of what you’re carrying, you’ll be able to easily access it thanks to the clamshell main compartment, quick-access front pockets, dual hip belt pockets, and dedicated laptop compartment. The hip belt is removable and the shoulder straps are stowable when not required. And for added convenience the pack also has a luggage pass-through sleeve. All in an understated, weather-resistant design for work and play alike.

Weight: 1.7 kg; 3.8 lbs

Dimensions: 50 x 33 x 15 (expands to 20) cm; 20″ x 13″ x 6″ (expands to 8″)

This might suit you if you’re searching for:

– Expandability to adapt to different loads

– Clamshell opening and quick-access pockets for organization

– Quick-access laptop storage

– Removable hip belt and stowable shoulder straps

– Luggage pass-through sleeve

– Stylish, weather-resistant design for work or holiday use

Thule Landmark 40L (US$179.95)

Thule’s Landmark 40L backpack offers a considered mix of clean style and functionality. The SafeZone compartment and concealed CashStash protect and organize small valuables, while LoopLocks secure zipper pulls for added security on the move. The pack provides an externally accessed laptop and tablet compartment and has a front panel opening for duffle-style packing. Additionally, the shoulder straps and hip belt tuck away when not required.

Weight: 1.8 kg; 4.05 lb

Dimensions: 44 x 33 x 55 cm; 17.7″ x 13″ x 21.5″

This might suit you if you’re searching for:

– Discreet storage for valuables

– Anti-theft zippers

– Exterior-access tech compartment

– Stowable shoulder straps and hip belt

– A clean silhouette

– Durable, multifunctional design

Mystery Ranch Mission Rover (US$185)

From wilderness road trips to overnight city breaks, this rugged 43L bag is designed to adapt on the fly and keep going strong. The Mission Rover offers backpack, shoulder bag and top and side grab handle carry options. A clamshell opening with interior organization makes it easy to pack and retrieve gear, with separate storage for shoes or dirty laundry. There’s also quick-access storage for tech and the shoulder straps are stowable too.

Weight: 1.6 kg; 3.5 lbs

Dimensions: 56 x 33 x 28 cm; 22″ x 13″ x 11″

This might suit you if you’re searching for:

– A burly build for demanding use

– Multiple carry options

– A clamshell main compartment for packing convenience

– Separate storage for laundry or shoes

– Stowable shoulder straps

– Quick-access tech storage

Topo Designs Travel Bag 30L (US$189) and 40L (US$229)

The carry-on-friendly 30L Topo Designs Travel Bag packs plenty of organization into a slim profile for short trips or small loads. A variety of pockets and compartments ensure your gear is accessible when you need it, with a lay-flat main compartment for maximum access. The pack also includes a dedicated laptop compartment and anti-theft zipper loops. A luggage pass-through sleeve, top and side grab handles, a removable shoulder strap and stowable shoulder straps give you lots of carry flexibility to adapt to different environments. And if you dig all this functionality but need more space, you can turn to the 40L Travel Bag which also suits most carry-on restrictions.

Weight 30L: 1.2 kg; 42.4 oz.

Dimensions 30L (W, H, D): 35.6 x 50.8 x 28 cm; 14″ x 20″ x 11″

Weight 40L: 1.65 kg; 58.4 oz.

Dimensions 40L (W, H, D): 40.6 x 55.9 x 28 cm; 16″ x 22″ x 11″

This might suit you if you’re searching for:

– A variety of pockets and compartments to organize your gear

– A lay-flat main compartment for ease of access

– Anti-theft zippers

– Dedicated laptop storage

– Luggage pass-through sleeve

– Multiple carry options

Tortuga Setout Backpack (US$199)

The Tortuga Setout Backpack scored top honors in our Carry Awards for Best Carry-On Bag. And it’s not hard to see why. The pack suits maximum-sized carry-on use, with 45L of storage and understated aesthetics that look good for business travel and holidays alike. Quick-access pockets store essentials, while the clamshell main compartment and dedicated laptop compartment take care of the rest. The pack also features a removable hip belt, stowable shoulder straps and a durable, weather-resistant build for years of trusty travel use.

Weight: 1.5 kg; 3.3 lbs

Dimensions: 56 x 36 x 23 cm; 22″ x 14″ x 9″

This might suit you if you’re searching for:

– Chic aesthetics for work or leisure use

– Clamshell main compartment

– Dedicated quick-access tech storage

– Removable hip belt and stowable shoulder straps

– Durable, weather-resistant construction

Tom Bihn Synapse 25 (US$235)

Love lots of quick-access organization? Look to the Synapse 25 which offers plenty of pockets and O-ring attachment points for stashing smaller items. You can also pair the bag with an optional Cache for storing tech in the wide-opening main compartment. Made in the USA, the pack comes in a choice of colorways and material options to suit your tastes, with water-resistant zippers. The pack also includes removable sternum and waist straps for added comfort and stability on the go. Versatile for urban use or outdoor day hikes, its discreet and compact design helps you avoid looking like a tourist too.

Weight: 400d Halcyon/420d nylon ripstop: 1 lb 13 oz / 832 grams; 525 denier Ballistic: 2 lb / 900 grams

Dimensions (W, H, D): 34 x 50.8 x 23 cm; 13.4″ x 20″ x 9.1″

This might suit you if you’re searching for:

– A backpack that can double as an EDC and travel pack

– Multiple quick-access pockets for smaller items

– Durable, USA-made construction

– Removable sternum and waist straps

– A range of colorway and fabric options

OPPOSETHIS Invisible Carry-On (~US$208)

The OPPOSETHIS Invisible Carry-On lives up to its name as an understated pack that blends into a variety of environments for low-key travel. The main compartment has a clamshell opening, with separate 15″ laptop storage on hand for your tech. The pack’s front compartment provides quick-access pockets, while a top pocket and bottom pocket further enhance your organization options. And for increased versatility the bag is compressible for use as a day pack at your destination.

Weight: 1.45 kg; 3.2 lbs.

Dimensions (H, W, D): 52 x 34 x 15-20 cm; 20.5″ x 13.5″ x 5.9-7.9″

This might suit you if you’re searching for:

– Stylish, low-key aesthetics that glide from work trips to weekend getaways

– Clamshell main compartment for easy packing and access

– Compressible design that serves as a day bag

– Dedicated quick-access laptop storage

Heimplanet Travel Pack (~US$209)

Built with sustainably made DYECOSHELL fabric, Heimplanet’s Travel Pack is a durable and stylish 34L pack for urban roaming and day trips. Features such as the lay-flat main compartment with interior divider, suspended laptop sleeve, 3D lay-flat pockets and exterior quick-access pockets help keep your gear neat and accessible throughout your travels. Additionally, a U-shaped zipper provides ready access to gear near the front top of the main compartment without having to undo the main zipper. The harness features a soft yet durable Cordura polyester stretch fabric on areas that will come into contact with your skin, enhancing wearer comfort and helping to protect your clothing. And with lower side compression you can cinch the pack for compact carry with smaller loads.

Weight: 1.66 kg; 3.66 lbs.

Dimensions (H, W, D): 53 x 34 x 19 cm; 21″ x 13″ x 7″

This might suit you if you’re searching for:

– Carry crafted with sustainably made material

– Easy access to gear with lay-flat main compartment and quick-access zipper

– Understated design for outdoor exploring, urban streets and work environments

Aer Travel Pack 2 (US$230)

Aer’s Travel Pack 2 packs in plenty of tricks to keep your travels smooth. Its durable build and versatile aesthetics suit work or play environments. And you can cinch it down to suit smaller day-to-day loads. The lay-flat main compartment enables easy packing and access, while the front organization compartment steps up to keep smaller items in check and at the ready. The pack also includes separate shoe storage as well as separate laptop storage with a water-resistant zipper for added protection. Lockable zippers on the main and front compartments help thwart pickpockets. And for carry options you’ve got a luggage pass-through sleeve, top and side handles, and the ability to add an optional hip belt.

Weight: 1.68 kg; 3.7 lbs.

Dimensions (L, W, D): 55 x 34 x 22 cm; 21.5″ x 13.5″ x 8.5″

This might suit you if you’re searching for:

– Sleek urban-friendly style for work trips or holidays

– Ready access to gear with an assortment of quick-access pockets and lay-flat main compartment

– Dedicated quick-access laptop storage

– Lockable zippers

– Luggage pass-through sleeve

– Cinchable design for day use

EVERGOODS CTB40 (US$289)

Inspired by the outdoors but built to embrace multiple environments, the EVERGOODS CTB40 offers a tough and water-resistant build to tackle city streets and wilderness trails alike. The clean silhouette reduces snag potential and helps the pack blend in to both work and play settings. Comfortable to carry, the pack also includes top and side handles for easy maneuverability. It’s fully padded on all sides for gear protection and keeps tech safe in a suspended laptop compartment. The main compartment features a clamshell opening, with pockets on one side and raised walls with compression straps to secure bulkier items like climbing helmets on the other. Additionally, both sides retain their structure and can serve as catch-all storage space while the pack is open.

Weight: 1.94 kg; 4.28 lbs.

Dimensions: 46 x 20 x 28 cm; 22″ x 14″ x 9″

This might suit you if you’re searching for:

– Rugged build quality

– A clean silhouette that suits formal and informal settings alike

– Outdoor and urban versatility

– Convenient clamshell access

– Catch-all storage space for a mobile workstation on the go

Minaal Carry-on 2.0 (US$299)

The Minaal Carry-on 2.0 gets the thumbs-up for its sleek and discreet aesthetics, lightweight and comfy build, durability backed by a lifetime warranty, and convenient access. The main compartment lays flat for fast and easy access, with inbuilt pockets for organization. The pack’s shoulder straps can be stowed away for a more professional-looking briefcase-carry mode, with dedicated storage for a 15″ laptop, documents and smaller items. And for inclement weather? The pack has you (and itself) covered with an included raincover. A sternum strap whistle and lockable zippers on the main compartment round out the elegantly practical design.

Weight: 1.42 kg; 3.12 lbs.

Dimensions (L, W, H): 55 x 35 x 20 cm; 21.6″ x 13.7″ x 7.87″

This might suit you if you’re searching for:

– Lightweight yet durable build

– Low-key aesthetics that adapt to work trips or holiday use

– Lay-flat main compartment for easy access

– Dedicated quick-access laptop storage

– Weather protection with an included raincover

Peak Design Travel Backpack (US$299.95)

Peak Design brings their signature savvy take on design to the travel world with their Travel Backpack. The pack offers a default 35L volume, but can expand to 45L for larger loads or compress into a 30L pack that’s handy for use as a day bag at your destination. There’s multiple ways to get to your gear, including back panel access with a lay-flat opening and dual side access. Additionally, the pack has a front organizer panel that also serves as a dividing panel. Depending on your needs, you can zip the organizer panel away for direct access to the main compartment through the front of the pack. Quick-access top and side pockets provide extra organization. And for bulkier items? No problem, with external attachment straps at the ready to secure them. The shoulder straps and waist belt can rotate to suit different body types and are stowable with nifty magnetic storage. Plus top, side and back panel handles are on hand for adaptable portability.

Weight: 2.05 kg; 4.5 lbs.

Dimensions: 53.34 x 38.1 x 14.61 cm; 21″ x 15″ x 5.75″

This might suit you if you’re searching for:

– Multiple access points to reach the main compartment

– Expandability and compression to suit changing loads

– A clean, stylish design for work and play

– Stowable shoulder straps and waist belt

Trakke Storr (~US$422)

If striking heritage-style aesthetics, excellent construction and premium materials sound like your cup of tea, check out the Trakke Storr. This handsome pack is handcrafted in Scotland with beautiful and weatherproof waxed canvas. Durable, straightforward and versatile for work or downtime adventures, the 30L design features a clamshell opening and an exterior-access laptop sleeve. Top and side grab handles assist with maneuverability in small spaces and the shoulder straps are stowable to reduce the risk of snagging.

Weight: 1.4 kg; 3.1 lbs.

Dimensions: 48 x 33 x 18 cm; 18.9″ x 13″ x 7.1″

This might suit you if you’re searching for:

– Handsome heritage aesthetics

– Excellent handmade construction

– Long-lasting durability

– Premium weatherproof materials

– Versatility for work or play environments

GORUCK GR2 (US$495)

With its legendary durability, adaptable aesthetics and versatile functionality, the GORUCK GR2 is a bag that can move from off-road adventures to city streets and back again. At 4.75 lbs it’s not light, but it’s undeniably burly. Going where you go and delivering reliable practicality for a wide range of loads and environments. While the military inspiration is clear, the aesthetics are just understated enough to move from play to casual work environments. It’s made in the USA with rugged and water-resistant 1000D Cordura and backed by GORUCK’s Scars Lifetime Guarantee. Compliant with TSA carry-on requirements, the pack keeps on top of gear organization with three compartments, a variety of pockets and exterior and interior MOLLE webbing to tailor travel setups to your needs. There’s also quick-access laptop storage with a false bottom for protection, along with a lay-flat main compartment for packing and access ease.

Weight: 2.15 kg; 4.75 lbs.

Dimensions 26L (W, H, D): 31.75 x 45.7 x 20.3 cm; 12.5″ x 18″ x 8″

Dimensions 34L: 31.75 x 52 x 22.9 cm; 12.5″ x 20.5″ x 9″

Dimensions 40L: 31.75 x 55.9 x 22.9 cm; 12.5″ x 22″ x 9″

This might suit you if you’re searching for:

– Exceptionally tough durability

– Understated tactical aesthetics

– Easy packing and access to gear in main compartment

– Option to tailor setups with interior and exterior MOLLE webbing

– A pack backed by an excellent guarantee

– Versatility for urban and outdoor environments