backpack travel work

• Meet the Team
• Our Manifesto
• Work with Us
• Budget Travel
• Personal Development
• Work & Travel
• United Kingdom
• More of Europe
• Philippines
• More of Southeast Asia
• More of South America
• More of Central America
• South Korea
• More of Asia
• More of North America
• New Zealand
• Pacific Islands
• More of Oceania
• South Africa
• More of Africa
• More of the Middle East
• Travel Essentials
• Travel Gear

Home » Gear » travel business backpack

10+ BEST Business Travel Backpacks (UPDATED 2024)

This list of the best business travel backpacks  is written for anyone who travels for work, commutes, or flies around the globe in search of better Wi-Fi connection.

(Take it from someone who is writing this from her laptop on a plane right now.)

But why use a backpack for travel? To be honest, briefcases are as archaic as the fax machine. Sure, they’re useful, but they are not as efficient.

If you are traveling with a laptop, important documents, more chargers than a bus full of LA football players, and enough snacks to survive an airport apocalypse, then you’re going to want a backpack.

Backpacks are revolutionizing the way we travel just like the internet has revolutionized the way we work. I mean, there was once a time when a backpack was a backpack, and now there are backpacks specifically for business, hiking, traveling ultra-lightweight; you name it.

However, with so many great choices, choosing the best backpack for work and travel can seem daunting.

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

Like a good pair of shoes, you want just the right fit, and lucky for you, I’ve used, tested, researched, and compiled a list of the best business travel backpacks of 2024.

You can rest assured that every business travel backpack on this list is a high-quality, durable, and TSA compliant bag specifically designed for traveling and business.

Quick Answer: These are the Best Business Travel Backpacks of 2024

• #1 Nomatic Travel Bag 40L – Best Overall Business Travel Backpack
• #2 Tortuga Travel Pack – Best Business Backpack for Laptops
• #3 Aer Travel Pack 3  – Best Business Backpack for EU Travelers
• #4 Harber City Backpack – Most Stylish Business Daypack
• #5 Kodiak Leather Satchel – Best Business Commuter Bag
• #6 Nomatic 14 Pack – Best Business Day Pack
• #7 Osprey Ozone – Best Business Pack With Laptop Compartment
• #8 Mahi Leather City Satchel – Best Business Commuter Bag
• #9 Tropicfeel Shell – Business Backpack For Digital Nomads
• # 10 Osprey Talon – Business Backpack For Cyclists

Nomatic Travel Bag 40L

• > Organizational Features

Tortuga Travel Pack

• > Clothing compartment
• > Laptop and tablet sleeves

Tortuga Laptop Backpack

• > Organization panel

Kodiak Leather Satchel

• > Large main compartment
• > Stylish and cool

Tropicfeel Shell

• Price > $$$
• > Completely Waterproof
• > Adjustable from 20L to 40L

• > Large capacity + Organised
• > Ridiculously comfortable

Nomatic 14L Backpack

• > Great layout keeps things organised
• > Expands to 20L. AWESOME!

• > Stylish and professional
• > Nicely organised

Why should you travel with a business travel backpack?

Buyer guide – key features to look for the best business travel backpack, best business travel backpacks of 2024, faq about the best travel business backpack, final thoughts on the best business travel backpacks.

• Buy Us a Coffee!

So why would you travel with a business backpack versus a messenger bag , briefcase, or even a purse?

Sometime the latter options may work better for you, but if you are traveling with electronic equipment – laptop computer, tablet – important documents, a book, etc., the weight can add up quickly.

These days, the best business travel backpacks are designed to be as efficient, secure, and comfortable as possible. Personally, I would much rather carry everything in a secure backpack that fits me comfortably than lugged over one shoulder.

If you are traveling with electronic gear, documents, and more, then having a backpack makes sense.

The business backpacks on this list were designed specifically for travelers too, meaning you can get through TSA lines and easily store your bag in an overhead bin.

Still not convinced? Every business travel backpack on this list is covered by a warranty or built to last for years.

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

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

For this article, we are focusing on the best business travel backpacks, meaning they have a different set of criteria compared to say backpacks just for travel , lightweight backpacks, or hiking backpacks. In order to find the best one, we tested them out over a period of time by taking them with is on business trips (as proffesional Digital Nomads, every trip is a business trip ;). We assessed how comfortable they were to carry, how good the organisational capacities were, how soundly they fit as carry on and paid extra attention to laptop compartments – one particular pack lost points as I found it hard to quickly access my MacBook when sat on a train.

1. Laptop compartment

The best business travel backpack will include a separate padded laptop compartment.

A laptop compartment is essential to keep your electronics secure and protected as well as move through the TSA line quickly. The padding is crucial as you’d hate to break or crack your laptop.

Frankly, pretty much every well-designed backpack on the market (except for hiking bags) have a lap top compartment of some kind.

2. Prioritize Accessibility and Organization

Organization compartments are especially important for a business travel backpack.

If you are using a backpack for work and travel, you will probably be traveling with a laptop , a few chargers, important documents, clothes, a jacket, etc. This, of course, means you want pockets and plenty of them.

My favorite backpacks have what’s called a u-zip. This means that you can open them completely on at least two sides for easy access. I’m not a big fan of top access only backpacks, even when I’m hiking.

3. Carry-on size Compliant

Carry-on travel backpacks save you from having to deal with lost bags and luggage fees. All of the backpacks on this list are carry-on sized and abide by TSA guidelines, so you can zip through the airport and to your next meeting.

Most of the backpacks on my list also have separate compartments that allow you to lie the laptop flat without actually taking it out of your backpack. This is another level of convenience and an excellent feature if you have to fly a lot.

If you’re after even more organisation and want to keep your documents at hand, even with a decent-sized bag, you can also combine one of these bags with a small but stylish travel purse too.

4. Sleek and Stylish

The best travel business backpacks are modern and chic, so you can slip into the office and your important meetings without looking like a backpacking bum.

You also want the backpack you choose to reflect your style, whether that is preppy, edgy, creative, etc. Sift through my list and see which travel business backpack fits your style most.

5. Fit and Comfort

Fit and comfort are important to any backpack purchase. If a backpack’s too big or too small for your frame, it will be clunky and heavy, uncomfortable, and maybe even painful.

This means making sure the straps are comfortable and fit your body properly. You want to look for adjustable straps and consider waist straps too, which will help balance the weight of a larger bag.

Adujstable straps are more common in hiking backpacks and less common in commuter bags . Regardlesss, the amount of customizability that a larger bag gives might not be necessary for a business backpack. You should at least look for a padded back.

6. Security

Security is another essential when you are carrying valuable things. Many of the best business travel backpacks have partially hidden compartments, sturdy zippers, and durable material that is hard to slash.

7. Weatherproof

This might not be a must-have for business travel backpacks, but if you’re spending time outdoors, or going to a city where it rains a lot, you may want to make sure your backpack is waterproof, or at least water resistant.

Looking to Find Your Tribe?

Introducing Tribal , Bali’s first purpose designed co-working hostel!

A unique coworking and co-living hostel for those that want to travel the world while working from their laptops. Make use of the massive open-air coworking spaces and sip on delicious coffee.

Network with other like-minded travellers all day and if you need a quick screen break, just take a refreshing dip in the infinity pool or go grab a drink at the bar.

Nomatic Travel Bag 40L – The Best Overall Business Travel Backpack

40 liters is the perfect carry-on size for those multi-day (3-7 day) trips. If you are planning to use a business travel backpack for overnight excursions, then I definitely suggest this choosing this bag.

This bag ticks all of the boxes for what makes the best travel business backpack: plenty of organizational features and pockets, easy accessibility to all of the compartments, durable tarpaulin/ballistic weave material, a 15″ laptop compartment, TSA compliant size, and adjustable waist straps.

Furthermore, it’s sleek and modern, so you’ll look good on the go, and the exterior of the Nomatic Travel Bag is 100% waterproof! In our experience, we found it to be very durable. We wouldn’t recommend submerging the bag in a pool, but if you are caught in a semi-heavy rainstorm, you can rest easy knowing that your stuff is going to stay dry.

The Nomatic travel bag comes with 20 unique features including a shoe compartment, secure pocket for valuables, water bottle container, a notebook pocket, the ability to switch from a duffel bag to backpack, and plenty more. There is also a Nomatic carry-on with wheels .

Our favorite features include its detachable waist straps with water-resistant pockets, unique shoe compartment, and roller bag sleeve. The roller bag sleeve allows you to carry it with additional luggage with ease. Want the full low-down on this backpack? Check out the full review of the Nomatic Travel Bag!

UPDATE for 2024:  Nomatic no longer sells or does business in the European Union, which is an unfortunate development. Those living in the EU should consider the next bag instead…

Tortuga Travel Pack – Best Business Backpack for Laptops

The Tortuga Travel Pack is easily one of the best carry-on travel backpacks on the market. It is quite similar to the Nomatic Travel Bag we also reviewed, but is a tad cheaper, which gives it an edge, in our opinion.

This bag packs in some awesome features include front-loading and the main compartment that opens like a suitcase, a padded and removable hip belt, padded and hideaway shoulder straps with molded foam, and weather resistant material. I also like that this bag is 40 liters, given you the extra space if you need it.

In terms of functionality, the Tortuga Travel Pack has a quick access pocket at the front with a full front tech pocket with a carabiner attachment and dividers. I like how this pocket zips all the way down to the bottom of the pack, so you have easy access to a jacket or bulky item that you want to quickly access or throw into your bag.

There is a separate laptop compartment at the back of the backpack with plenty of cushions. Your laptop will sit a few inches from the bottom for extra protection in case you drop your bag. The laptop sleeve can fit a 15-inch laptop as well as a 9.7-inch tablet. I found it really easy to slot in and slot out when I was testing it out which is why I made it my pick of the best laptop ready bags for business travel.

The Tortuga Travel Pack features a TSA-friendly laptop sleeve that allows you to leave the device in your backpack while going through security.

Aer Travel Pack 3  – Best Business Backpack for EU Travelers

Arguably the best backpack for traveling, the Aer Travel Pack 3 is the perfect bag for digital nomads and anyone on a long business trip.

This backpack was made by travelers for travelers. It is literally filled with features, and the Aer Travel Pack 3 has a compartment for almost everything.

Do you need somewhere to keep an extra pair of shoes? There’s a poclet for that. Want to put your laptop in it’s own sleeve? Done. There’s a space just for your laptop.

The bag opens like a clamshell so you can easily access your clothes, cords, or anything else you might have with you. The Aer Travel Pack 3 is small enough to be a daypack and large enough for one bag carry one trips. Minimalist design on the outside of the pack deters thieves and makes stashing your backpack in the overhead bin of a plane even easier.

Simply put, this is the best business travel backpack: it’s well-designed and extremely versatile, durable, and innovative. You’ll find yourself using it all the time – business or pleasure.

For a very detailed description of this backpack, check out the Aer Travel Pack review .

Even though we recommend the Aer to European travelers, Americans can also get it; the backpack is available worldwide! It’s just a great overall backpack and is great for those who miss out on the Nomatic.

If you are going on a business trip, don’t stress about your phone service. Download Holafly’s eSim before you fly and get connected the minute you land. HolaFly offer a range of eSim data packages starting at as little as $1 per day.

Hit the button below to visit the store.

City Backpack – Most Stylish Business Daypack

These days business people really need to look the part. And nothing exudes class, confidence and success like good quality leather! The City Backpack from Harber London was designed and made with your work day in mind. It is perfectly sized to accommodate a laptop, note book, pens, leads and a water bottle to keep you hydrated.

It has comfortable carry handles and is fairly light for a bag so tough so you wont mind carrying it to and from the office. The interior has been carefully designed to help you keep everything organised to avoid awkwardly rummaging through your bag during important meetings.

This is not the cheapest backpack on our list but it may be the suavest; for the discerning business person, makes a great investment.

Osprey Ozone – Best Business Bag With Laptop Compartment

Okay, so you need a bag that can safely hold your laptop, all your accessories and not stick out like a tortoise? Let me introduce the Osprey Ozone. 

Ultra Lightweight, strong construction with a convenient 16” laptop compartment perfect for your daily commute. The main compartment helps you to organise your accessories and say goodbye to tangled cables. There is also a padded pocket perfect for keeping your phone or small gadgets protected. 

One of my favourite features of this pack is it comes with a travel luggage ID to help reunite with your trusty pack if you get separated.

Nomatic Travel Pack 14  – Best Travel Business Backpack for Quick Trips

This is the goldilocks of Nomatic bags: much smaller than the Nomatic 40 coming in at 14l but then expanding to 20L. This makes it a great day business backpack which can also be adapted to work for overnight trips.

Actually, when it comes down to it, this bag is almost identical to the 20-liter Nomatic backpack but bigger, so I don’t have too much to add in this review.

Moreover, it’s TSA ready so you don’t have to take your laptop out of the compartment in line.  There is a tablet pocket for your iPad or Kindle, and a mesh dividing wall to organize clothes.

UPDATE for 2024 : Nomatic is not available in the EU or UK. Go for the Aer instead.

Tortuga Laptop Backpack – Best Business Travel Backpack for Overnight Trips

Tortuga markets this bag as an “organized daypack for air travel,”  which screams take me on your business trip, if you ask me. This bag is perfect for air travel.

This is a low-profile backpack will keep all your things organized in a spacey main compartment, 15-inch laptop sleeve + tablet sleeve, mesh zippered pocket for chargers, journal compartment, pen pockets, front pocket for valuables, and a side-pocket for your water bottle .

Yeah, that’s a lot of pockets!

I also love how the Tortuga laptop backpack opens flat like a suitcase, so you can easily use this for overnight trips.

Plus, it’s easy to lock zippers, luggage handle pass, and hideaway shoulder straps make it perfect for traveling through airports.

Ultimately, we love this pack. It’s a bit on the heavier side at 2.8 pounds, but that’s the trade-off for durability. As with anything Tortuga, you are getting a high-quality backpack that will last you for years to come.

Check out our full  Tortuga laptop backpack  review.

Tropicfeel Shell – Business Backpack For Digital Nomads

There are a few things that make the Tropicfeel by Shell a great business backpack. Firstly, it’s perfectly sized for carry-on cabin requirements so is ideal for taking on business trips (whether by plane or even train). Secondly, it’s the only backpack we have come across that comes with a pull-out, hang-up wardrobe, making it insanely easy to neatly pack and unpack. I found this feature to be great when I checked into my hotel room and had to quickly unpack and change to meet a client.

On the flip side though, the laptop compartment is not as accessible as with some other packs so I annoyed the fellow passengers when I basically dug deep into the pack in order to retrieve it on a train journey. The Shell is also adjustable in its size. It can be rolled up from a 22L day pack to a 30L weekend back and then the addition of the detachable pouch brings it up to a short/medium trip sized 40L backpack.

It’s a genuinely innovative, well-made backpack from a very cool up and coming brand. Oh, and it’s also made from sustainable materials giving it serious eco-cred.

The reason I rate it so highly for use by Digital Nomads is that it the perfect hybrid of a business/backpacking pack.

TomToc Navigator-T66  – Best Lightweight Business Travel Backpack

Okay so I have been using the TomToc Navigator T66 for the past six months and it has failed to let me down. It has a large 40L compartment with more than enough space to pack your clothes, a padded laptop sleeve and a mesh zipped pocket for your accessories. 

I love the quick access front pocket and the main compartment can also be unzipped like a suitcase making airport security a breeze. There’s a side drink bottle holder and lots of compartments for storing important things for your important business meetings with important people. 

The overall comfort of this bag is spot on. The thick shoulder straps provide an elite level of comfort and the padded back panel protects you from chargers, shoes or hairdryers poking you as you run for the train. 

One feature I wish this pack had is a waist belt to spare my shoulders from the burden of digital nomad life. Other than that, this pack has delighted me, and it’s a steal for the price. 

Nomatic Backpack  – Best Business Backpack for Organized Travelers

At only 20 L (but expandable to 24L), the Nomatic Backpack is the smallest backpack from Nomatic, and the perfect option if you are looking for a small business backpack for quick trips.

The Nomatic Backpack is made of durable, waterproof materials and zippers. Like its big brothers, it can also convert into a duffel bag and has tons of pockets and compartments for organizing your things, including a hidden money pocket and RFID safe pockets (to keep electronics safe from hackers).

What makes this backpack unique is its removable panel that is designed to hold electronic gear (keyboards, wires, chargers, etc). It’s great for work-related or study trips where you are packing all your electronics.

But let’s say you are going for a quick overnight trip, or you don’t need all of your electronic gear – simply remove the panel and shed a few ounces of weight too.

Some other noteworthy features of the Nomatic Backpack include…

• Retractable key leash  – A great way to keep your keys safe and easily accessible
• Roller bag sleeve  – If you travel with a roller suitcase, this backpack will slip over the top of the retracted handle
• Cord pass through –  This backpack has strategically designed holes throughout the bag that enable you to pass cords through for a quick charge
• Notebook pocket –  If you are a notebook user then your special book will have a special place in this bag

This is the perfect backpack for that quick run to the café, going in and out of meetings, or using on flights. If you need something bigger, then check out the bag below!

UPDATE for 2024: Nomatic is not available for purchase for those living in the EU but is available as Gomatic.

Boundary Supply MK-1 LT Camera Pack  – Best Business Travel Backpack for Photographers

Whether it’s a short city trip or a travel adventure, nothing means more to us photographers than keeping our prized possessions safe, secure and yet accessible, whilst on the move. 

That’s where the Boundary Supply MK-1 LT comes in. This pack has been designed with photographers at its very core.  With customisable padded protection, you can design your pack to suit your equipment needs and travel with confidence that your precious gear is safe and secure. 

This modest but stylish-looking pack backpack goes under the radar too. Its sleek design and compact size allows you to blend in as any old regular commuter so nobody will ever know you’re actually carrying $1k worth of gear.  Further, due to its versatile design and customisation, you can carry cameras, drones, VR headsets and this pack seamlessly integrates with several of the other Boundary packs .

Best Business Pack For Cyclists:  Osprey Talon

It’s pretty common these days for health and planet minded professionals to cycle to work – I certainly do. But finding a bike ready backpack that loves and feels right for the office can be a serious challenge. Anyway, this pack by Osprey has recently come to our attention but has impressed us very much.

A dedicated laptop compartment signifies that this bag isn’t your usual day bag. It doesn’t have the same frame and hip belt you’ll find on Osprey’s hiking line, instead of bringing along plenty of features that will help you get through the workday in style.

What makes the Osprey Talon IDEAL for cyclists is the packs light weight, breathable mesh back panel as well as an attachment for a bike helmet to fasten onto as well as a flash light. The hip belt can be used to secure it to your body and there is even a hydration sleeve for those cycling on a hot day. It comes in 11L to 32L depending on how much stuff you need.

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

What does a business backpack need?

A business backpack needs to be more stylish than regular backpacks, but still offer the same comfort and capacity. It’s basically a more professional looking backpack with a (usually) sleek design.

What is the most stylish business backpack?

We love the design of the Nomatic Travel Bag 40L . It’s stylish, it’s comfortable and it’s spacious as well.

What are the key features of a business backpack?

These are the key features: 1. Laptop compartment and Security 2. Accessibility and Organization 3. Sleek and Stylish, yet weatherproof 4. Fit and Comfort

Are business backpacks carry-on size?

Yes, a normal business bag should match the carry-on standards. The Nomatic Travel Bag 40L is the best carry-on option.

Our GREATEST Travel Secrets…

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

Whether you are traveling for a week or just need a high-quality backpack to travel to and from work, this list of the best business travel backpacks includes something for you.

If you are traveling on a multi-day business trip, I highly recommend the Nomatic Travel Pack 40L . Check out the smaller versions for shorter trips or days at the office too.

While some of the companies on this list are well-known in the travel space, notable start-ups, like Boundary Supply are proving to be high-quality and durable bags well worth looking into.

If you think we missed a business travel backpack on this list, let us know in the comments!

Buy Us a Coffee !

A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!

You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee . If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂

Ana Pereira

Share or save this post

You’re such a savior! I’ve been scrolling for hours now and thank God I found your blog! Thanks for compiling all the best travel backpacks!!

I applaud your thorough evaluation in this article. I’m looking for a great backpack for daily work and travel. Are there backpacks out there that will not fall over—fully loaded or half loaded? Please advise. Thank you!

Thanks for sharing this helpful information about the backpack on the market. All the backpack you have described above are very secure and their features are awesome

Glad to hear you enjoyed the content! Much appreciated! Which backpack did you end up going with?

I researched every travel bag I could find and the best backpack I found was an American Tourister at Target for $60. Very lightweight and does everything these backpacks do and very high quality, lots of pockets and holds a large laptop. I’d put it up against any of these. Best decision I ever made, at least bag related. It doesn’t make any of these “best” lists though for whatever reason.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

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

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

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

14 best business travel backpacks for every budget

If you travel regularly for work, you won't need us to tell you that a good travel backpack is essential. That's especially true if a backpack can double as a decently sized carry-on luggage item while still housing your laptop in an easily accessible compartment.

We looked at some of the best (and most stylish) backpacks out there to take the hassle out of searching for the best item.

Without further ado, here are the best business travel backpacks that maximize form and function across various budgets.

Amazon Basics Laptop Backpack, $33.47

If you don't want to break the bank, the Amazon Basics range offers a reliable and, dare we say, fairly stylish backpack for less than $40.

The bag has a dedicated (and padded) laptop sleeve that can easily hold a laptop up to 17 inches in size; it has additional compartments for pens, keys, cellphones and other items.

There's also a water bottle pocket on both sides of the bag for easy access when you're on the go.

Buy from $33.47

Lenovo Legion Gaming Laptop Bag, $55.19 (normally $79.99)

Admittedly, we've never seen Batman carry a backpack, but if he did, we're pretty sure it'd look something like this robust bag by Lenovo. It has a 20-liter capacity and room for a 16-inch laptop, alongside seven inside pockets to suit all your work travel needs — including a hidden compartment for valuables.

Built for carrying electronic items, the bag features foam antishock bumpers on the corners of the laptop compartment for extra protection against bag drops and other jolts.

There's also a high-quality magnetic lock to keep your items safe.

Buy from $55.19 (normally $79.99)

Tangcorle Travel Carry On Backpack, $58.90

Part backpack and part carry-on suitcase, this bag has an expandable design. This means it has a capacity of 36 to 50 liters and should easily fit the maximum carry-on size for most airlines.

Other features include an external USB port with a built-in charging cable, allowing you to attach your own power bank and keep your devices charged while on the go.

The main compartment is similar to one in an ordinary carry-on suitcase and can easily store five to seven days' worth of clothes, depending on how you like to pack. It is perfect for long weekends and short business trips.

Buy from $58.90

Samsonite Novex Laptop Backpack, $69.99 (normally $99.99)

If you are shopping for a travel backpack from a reliable brand with a more down-to-earth budget, this Samsonite bestseller has a lot going for it.

Despite its price, the Novex Laptop Backpack doesn't compromise on the basics. The separate laptop and tablet pocket features a special webbing system that provides extra durability in case you drop the backpack. Plus, thanks to the special supportive lining on the top front pocket, you won't have to worry about misplacing your headphones, glasses or cellphone.

The main storage compartment has room for all the essentials, though you may not find it large enough for a full change of clothes or a pair of shoes.

Buy from $69.99 (normally $99.99)

The North Face Recon Everyday Laptop Backpack, $109

A modern classic, the Recon Everyday Laptop Backpack is a popular, on-trend design you'll frequently see on the backs of young professionals in buzzy city centers.

The backpack has two external water bottle holders and a main compartment capable of carrying up to 30 liters. Its laptop sleeve is also sizable and should easily hold machines up to 18 inches.

Perhaps its most interesting feature is the comfortable design of its shoulder straps, which are certified by the American Chiropractic Association.

Buy from $109

Ogio Renegade Backpack, $128.24 (normally $149.99)

If you're looking for the bag with the most pockets, this might be it. Ogio's flagship backpack has dedicated space for everything (laptop and iPad included) and then some. With a phone pocket, two zippered side pockets and five main pockets, you might just get lost looking around for your gear.

No matter how full you stuff this nearly 30-liter backpack, you shouldn't have much of a problem carrying it around, thanks to its supportive padded back panel and shoulder straps. This makes it easy to lug it around the airport or corporate campus.

Buy from $128.24 (normally $149.99)

Incase ARC Daypack, $129.95

Apple aficionados will no doubt be familiar with Incase, a popular brand of cases and protection solutions for iPhones, iPads and Macs.

The laptop pocket is big enough for a 16-inch computer, and it's lined in faux fur for additional protection. Its travel tech compartment also includes RFID-blocking technology, preventing thieves from stealing your digital information.

A water- and stain-resistant coating, two dedicated water bottle holders, and a pass-through system for rollaboard bags make this the ideal bag for anyone going from the gym to the office to the airport. If you need something bigger, Incase also makes a larger A.R.C. travel pack.

Need more convincing? Both bags are made from a sustainable mixture of recycled polyester, giving the company its A.R.C. acronym, which stands for "a responsible carry."

Buy from $129.95

Aer Pro Pack 20L, $179

As far as business travel backpacks go, Aer's is certainly quite stylish. It comes in three colors (black, navy and olive), and it's made of sustainable materials without compromising on durability. A separate laptop compartment safeguards your most precious technology, while the main compartment is large enough for all your chargers and other travel accessories.

The standout feature is the main compartment's 180-degree flat-open zipper system, giving you unobstructed access to all your belongings.

There's even a hidden pocket to store an AirTag or other tracker so that you can locate your bag even if it's stolen or misplaced.

Buy from $179

Away The Everywhere Zip Backpack, $195

Made with water-resistant nylon, the Everywhere backpack by Away has a full wraparound zip that provides access to the main compartment. Not only can you fit more things in an orderly fashion, but you'll also be able to easily see your things when you need to retrieve them from the backpack.

Alongside the main compartment, the bag also houses a 15-inch laptop pocket with a magnetic locking zipper and padded shoulder straps for comfort. It's available in five colors — including the limited-edition garnet colorway.

Buy from $195

Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack, $209

The Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack has space for everything and then some. The padded rear pocket is the perfect spot for a laptop, so you won't have to dig through the main compartment to find your computer.

The main compartment is spacious and can expand by nearly 3 liters, giving you more room for your belongings. Plus, the front pocket has a dedicated organizer with multiple pockets, so you'll never forget where you put your passport, charger and cables.

Buy from $209

Nomatic 20L Backpack, $279.99

Although you may not have heard of Nomatic, this brand receives rave reviews from its loyalists. The company's bestselling backpack comes in two sizes: 14 liters and 20 liters. Both are expandable by nearly 20%.

The flat rectangular design may be controversial at first glance, but at least you can't complain about finding space for all of your gizmos. The bag has a staggering 24 unique storage compartments, ranging from enclosed pockets to mesh nets. It's a great bag for those who like to stay extremely organized when they're on the road.

Buy from $279.99

Briggs & Riley Traveler Backpack, $329

The Briggs & Riley backpack has an impressive amount of storage capability thanks to its multitude of pockets and 180-degree, lie-flat opening that allows unfettered access to every nook and cranny.

The laptop sleeve and tablet sleeve are in the same area as the main packing compartment, but they're separated by a zippered inner pocket to keep your clothes all by themselves.

There's also a so-called PowerPocket that fits an external battery pack and keeps a charging cable within easy reach — perfect for a quick boost of juice while you're on the go.

Buy from $329

Tumi Alpha Bravo Navigation Backpack, $525

Though Tumi makes a handful of durable bags, the Navigation Backpack excels for a wide range of travel needs. It features a separate padded laptop compartment (that can fit even the largest MacBooks), a main storage area and plenty of other smaller pockets.

It also has a zip expansion feature if you decide to grab some souvenirs during your travels.

The backpack comes in five colors, giving you plenty of choices to match your personal travel style.

Buy from $525

Rimowa Flap Backpack Large, $1,725

If you're looking to make a statement and are willing to spend some serious cash, Rimowa's travel bags are the way to go.

This luxury Italian-made large canvas Flap Backpack features a padded laptop sleeve and a large drawstring compartment to fit all of your travel essentials. It is secured by a flap-top enclosure with a magnetic buckle emblazoned with the Rimowa logo.

Buy from $1,725

Related reading:

• Key travel tips you need to know — whether you're a beginner or expert traveler
• The best travel credit cards
• The 18 best places to travel in 2024
• 6 real-life strategies you can use when your flight is canceled or delayed
• 8 of the best credit cards for general travel purchases

The Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

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 May 21, 2024, adding the JanSport Journey Pack as our new best budget travel pack, as well as the feature-rich and burly Able Carry Max Backpack .

• Best Overall Travel Backpack: Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L
• Best Budget Travel Backpack: JanSport Journey Pack
• 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 L to 35 L.

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.

JanSport Journey Pack

• Capacity 28 liters
• Weight 1 lb., 13.6 oz.
• Dimensions 19.5" x 12.5" x 7"
• Compartment access Zippered top access
• Material 100% 600D recycled polyester + 1680D ballistic boot
• Electronic storage 15" laptop sleeve

• Compact and clean profile
• Plush foam back panel and shoulder straps
• Compression straps on bottom of pack tote around a jacket
• Smooth-running zippers
• Good internal organization
• Laptop sleeve won't fit some large modern laptops
• Water bottle pockets sized for slimmer vessels

At $95, the JanSport Journey Pack does a lot for a little. As a campus commuter, airline personal item, or do-it-all backpack, this pack leverages its lack of specificity to make it amenable to being used on just about any day. Part of a trio of new travel packs from the legendary campus bookbag brand, the Journey surprised us with a more high-end build than expected, and for the money, it made an excellent travel companion.

While the Journey isn’t trimmed out in some of the more boutique fabrics, it is still solidly built and uses the good stuff where it counts, such as the 1680D ballistic boot material that’s reinforced with recycled car windshield liners (news to us). The 600D polyester used elsewhere has a rugged nailhead finish, and shoulders wear well.

The thick EVA foam used in the shoulder straps and back panel is cushy and applied liberally. On the inside, the laptop sleeve is lined with plush tricot material, along with an organizer pocket for stashing your readers or sunnies.

The organization of the pack is similarly uncompromising and is broken down into a spacious main compartment, front stash pocket, small bits and bobs organizer pocket, and a 15″ laptop sleeve — which easily toted our tester’s MacBook Pro safely.

When packed as a carry-on, we were able to stuff in an assortment of layers we might need along the way (rain jacket, warm puffy, hat), along with our headphones, book, travel pillow , and lunch for the flight, and still had space for an empty water bottle or two.

As a 28-liter pack, there’s no alternate sizing available and no hip belt to go along — though, in our opinion, loads this light doesn’t need one. Compression straps are limited, though you do get a set at the bottom of the pack that doubles as a dock for your beach towel, picnic blanket, or rolled-up jacket.

Like the TimBuk2 Never Check , the side water bottle pockets on this pack are really only ideal for thin bottles or flasks, and while we could shoehorn a Nalgene in there, it didn’t look happy.

Compromises aside, for less than $100, the JanSport Journey Pack doesn’t take the easy way out and phone it in with fewer materials or a more simple organizational layout. We had a pocket or sleeve for anything we needed to stash (besides a dedicated passport pocket), and the Journey made for an easy personal item on the handful of flights we took it on — easily stashing beneath the seat. If you’d rather ball out on your big-ticket luggage and just need a travel backpack that’ll plain work, this is the bag for you.

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 complements 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.

Able Carry Max Backpack

• Capacity 30 L
• Weight 3 lbs., 14.4 oz.
• Dimensions 20.4" x 12.6" x 7.9"
• Compartment access Zippered clamshell design
• Material X-Pac and 1000D nylon face fabric, ripstop 420D nylon interior

• High-quality fit and finish with top-shelf materials
• Dedicated work compartment is well organized and padded
• Shoulder straps and back panel are cushy Zotefoam
• Fits 17" laptops
• No hipbelt can be nice for storing, but needed for heavy carries
• On the higher end for travel pack pricing

Sporting many of the same features and functionality as the leading travel packs in our review, the Able Carry Max Backpack ($278) leaves little on the cutting room floor, decked out with ultra-durable Cordura nylon and X-Pac materials to pull together a travel pack that you could kick, throw, or loft across the airport to no ill effect. This is one tough pack.

At 30 liters, the only thing not ‘Maxed’ out on the Max is the capacity, which lands at less than the maximum legal carry-on size for most domestic airlines, but will be ideal instead for those who are operating with a little more room in their checked baggage, freeing up the Max for the important stuff. We also find slightly smaller packs such as this fly much easier on worldwide flights, where carry-on sizes can be a bit more diminutive.

That space is wisely dispersed, organized, and split between the laptop and main compartments. The laptop sleeve won’t hold any remote worker back, as it will host up to the 17″ mondo laptops of the modern age. It is flanked by an accessories pocket lined with four stretchy pockets for swaddling your chargers, cords, memory cards, and wireless mouse.

The main compartment leaves the organization up to you and is accessed through a broad clamshell opening that gives you full access to the entire space. A couple of packing cubes won’t go to waste in this space, and while Able Carry doesn’t supply the straps themselves, a couple of daisy chain webbing loops run the length of either side of the interior, meaning you can wrangle unruly items if need be. The back panel tucks away a few more zippered pockets, and a water bottle pocket also collapses away when not needed.

On the exterior, the Max is crisscrossed by seatbelt webbing on almost every facet, which will appeal to those who are looking for a modular pack for attaching and switching kit around as it’s needed. The VX21 X-Pac material is a rough and tumble weave that might not have the slick finish of the canvas on the Peak Design Travel Backpack but is easily as weather and abrasion-proof. We also highly appreciated the 1000D Cordura nylon on the boot of the pack, which made shuffling it around a worry-free exercise.

There are a lot of high-quality travel backpacks in the 30-liter space, and while most all will get the job done, it’s the construction of the Able Carry Max Backpack that keeps drawing us back to it. The stitching on this pack is exact and plentiful and works to hold a number of high-quality materials together in a thoughtful design.

Fully loaded, we did sometimes wish for a removable hip belt to help shoulder the weight a bit, but only the most jammed-full load-outs elicited this desire. For anyone after a dialed-in travel pack, the Max lives up to the name.

Matador GlobeRider45 Travel Pack

• Dimensions 22" x 12.8" x 11"
• 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 bag. 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

• 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

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

• Capacity 25 L
• 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 ($250) 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 (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 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 20-30L 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 JanSport Journey Pack 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 L, make better personal items, and the TimBuk2 Never Check , Tom Bihn Synapse , and Patagonia Black Hole backpacks all fit snugly 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.

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 JanSport Journey Pack ($95) 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 ($250) 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

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

The Best Backpacks for Work (That Actually Look Good), According to Stylish Professionals

In this article

Best under $100, best under $200, best under $300, best over $300.

At The Strategist, we’ve spent a lot of time searching for adult backpacks (though some of us feel strongly that they are never, ever okay). That has led us to the best travel backpacks , laptop backpacks , and even backpacks with wheels — but the world of practical yet stylish work backpacks is a different beast.

The work backpack should be sturdy enough to withstand the rigors of everyday use but elevated enough to say, “I am a professional, and this is how I want colleagues to see me.”

Finding a backpack that holds everything you need to make it through a day at the office (or running from meeting to meeting) that won’t make your boss do a double take is more art than science. So to find the best options out there, at a range of price points, I asked stylish professionals which backpacks they rely on to be office appropriate but that look good enough to carry in their off time too.

Consider this the ideal work backpack for the person who doesn’t really want to be carrying a work backpack. That was the appeal for senior director at the David Zwirner gallery Thor Shannon, who loves that this bag is “anonymous and unprecious” with no visible logos. When we talked to Shannon for our guide to the best work bags for men , he told us that he settled on an older version of the backpack, which can hold his laptop and “every charger known to man.”

Writer Molly Dektar went down a rabbit hole for us in order to figure out why every stylish person she knew in the art world was carrying this specific Patagonia backpack to work. The answer? It’s “a really good bag,” she wrote. “It can be carried as either a tote or a backpack, depending on the situation, and it folds into its own internal pocket, for easy storage. Though it is crafted of black ripstop, it does not scream, ‘I hike!’ Though it has a large number of pockets and adjustable straps, it does not scream, ‘I code!’”

Jules Bakshi, the founder of Brooklyn dance and mindful-fitness studio Good Move , says she is almost always carrying this mini-pack from Colorado-based Topo Designs. The compact size makes it practical for everyday journeys, but it also fits all of her work gear, including “a water bottle, snacks, first aid, and a light extra layer,” she says. “And it’s cute, too.”

Editor’s Note: Bakshi’s backpack color is out of stock, but Topo Designs has plenty of other good-looking options to choose from. 

When musician Sharon Van Etten told The Strategist about her favorite things, she included this Béis backpack that replaced her old Jansport. “It’s smaller than my Jansport, so I don’t feel like a freshman college student hitting everyone in the head,” she says, adding that it’s still very roomy. Its main compartment can accommodate notebooks and headphones, there’s a back pocket for a laptop, and its two exterior pockets can hold water bottles or, after work, “a couple of beers or a wine bottle,” she says.

Although he did not purchase this Cotopaxi bag for work, science teacher and running enthusiast Joey Anderson finds its lightweight and cheerful colors perfect for carrying in and out of the classroom. He got the bag for a summer trip to London to fit his belongings while he ran eight miles from Clapham to Hampstead Heath’s mixed swimming ponds. But he found that afterward, it “doesn’t look lame walking around the city.” It looks just as good in his classroom this school year, despite the fact that his students rag him about the bold blue and yellow. “It’s always good to have a talking point,” Anderson says.

Dustin Sposato, the deputy managing director at data-focused nonprofit Project Evident , says he was very happy with his Everlane backpack for a few years, but it eventually started to break down. When it did, he wanted to get something a little different — and ideally more durable. Sposato ultimately landed on this Cordura Backpack from L.L.Bean. “I grew up in Maine and always had L.L.Bean backpacks as a kid, so it felt like a natural pick,” he says. “They’re super-functional and last forever. My mom still uses one I had in elementary school. This one felt ‘adult’ without being overly sleek.”

The chef Eric Ripert told us in his “What I Can’t Live Without” about the Rains backpack he has on his person at all times. “I walk every day from my house to Le Bernardin, and I go back from Le Bernardin to my house, through Central Park or on the streets, rain or shine — and I have this knapsack on me always,” he said. “In the small front pocket, I put my keys, my headset, my glasses, some tissues, whatever. And the bigger one I put files in or have room if I buy something. I like that there’s no label whatsoever.”

Meta-content specialist Pia Velasco calls this her Mary Poppins bag. “It holds so much,” she says. “This is what I love the most about it. It fits my laptop, two bottles of wine, all my chargers, makeup bag, a change of clothes, my wallet, and any other shenanigans I may have with me.” It’s technically a diaper bag, but you’d never know. “The black vegan leather makes it a little edgier and cooler than your typical backpack,” Velasco says. “It feels more New York than middle-school hallway,” she adds, which was important when she was working in beauty and “constantly jumping around the city and meeting with a ton of beautiful, well-dressed people … I feel totally comfortable taking it with me everywhere.”

Content strategist Libby Bartley recommends her backpack, another vegan-leather option, from Matt & Nat. She likes that it’s “ethically made and manufactured with sustainable resources” and also “features adjustable straps, expandable gussets, and pockets for laptops and smartphones.” “Not only is the bag multifunctional for work and play,” she says, “it’s a long-lasting investment.”

As a working mom, Strategist senior writer Liza Corsillo needed a bag she could use in the office, while running errands, and for baby outings. She tested three other options before landing on the LeSportsSac Double Trouble backpack , which quickly became her favorite thanks to its simple and ergonomic design: “The wide, woven nylon straps hug my shoulders gently as they evenly distribute the weight of whatever I am carrying,” Corsillo says. She calls the bag “Prada-adjacent” and notes that when she’s tired of wearing it as a backpack, she can transform it into a tote because of its double-handled design.

Editor’s Note: Corsillo’s all-black style is currently out of stock, but you can sign up to be notified when it’s available or check out the available exciting color options in the meantime.  

Comedian and writer Hasan Minhaj named this backpack one of the items he can’t live without, and he wasn’t exaggerating. Minhaj has been wearing this nondescript number since 2008 (“when I still had a day job,” he says). Though he has considered upgrading, he always returns to his Incase because it has the perfect amount of compartments to prevent his belongings from running loose in his bag. “I’m going to keep using this until the bottom rips apart and I literally can’t use it anymore,” he says.

There’s also this nondescript option from Rains that’ll fit a MacBook Pro along with a couple of notebooks. Gonzalo Donoso, a designer at Mother Design , likes that the construction is very sleek: “It looks expensive even though it’s fairly affordable,” he says. The bag has a hidden pocket close to the straps, so you won’t have to fully open the bag to grab smaller items.

If you’d prefer a more robust backpack from Rains, upgrade to this style, which includes a water-bottle holder, loads of pockets, and exterior elastic strapping that’s ideal for holding a bike helmet. Jaye Thompson, a creative at Mother New York , has been using it for two years and says, “Its design features have function and utility without being distracting. And I have the all-black one, which blends in quite nicely.” Best of all, the bag keeps anything inside of it bone-dry during downpours. (We would expect nothing less from the maker of our favorite men’s raincoat .)

“This bag is like the cotton tote of backpacks,” says Lee Glandorf, a brand strategist. The minimal exterior is made from a durable waxed canvas, and the interior is smartly divided up with a padded laptop sleeve, a spacious main compartment, and a floating top-accessed pocket that’s the perfect size for keys, a wallet, sunglasses, or other smaller items. It also works as a stealth carry-on. “It doesn’t scream ‘traveler’ when I am heading to and from the office on a trip,” says Glandorf.

Style influencer Bethany Everett-Ratcliffe recommends this vegan-leather backpack. She likes that it’s “sleek, stylish, and structured” but also super-functional. It has a separate zippered back compartment to keep your laptop secure, a luggage sleeve, as well as several zippered pouches inside the main compartments that help keep the rest of your belongings organized. It comes in work-appropriate black, white, and brown, but if your company is a little more relaxed, it’s available in yellow and purple too.

Sube Zia, the manager of Ambassador Luggage in Manhattan, says this Briggs & Riley backpack is “subtly good looking” and appealing to those who prefer a style that’s more business casual than utilitarian. The “ultralightweight” bag comes with useful pockets for holding a laptop, headphones, notebooks, and other daily necessities. Plus its outer is made with a micro-weave nylon fabric that’s durable and water resistant.

A good work backpack can accompany its wearer all day — not only to the office but also to the gym and happy hour. Life sciences consultant Jonah Robison swears by this Aer Duffel Pack, which features an antimicrobial lining and separate shoe pocket to keep sweaty gym clothes isolated from his packed lunch, clean clothes, and other work gear. The laptop compartment in particular is “extremely well padded, with a separate tablet sleeve and water-resistant zippers to keep tech gear protected.” It’s worth pointing out that with a 21-liter volume, “it is not a small bag,” Robison says, but it more than pulls its own weight. “Other bags seem to be too small to use for work and the gym or so big you feel as though you’re calling attention to yourself. I’ve also used other bags that have too many organizational tools, which just lead to increased weight and to you storing way more than you need.”

Former Strategist writer Chloe Anello has the large version of the Dagne Dover backpack and says it was great for her long, two-hour commute from Beacon to downtown New York. “That backpack was my favorite for lugging stuff back and forth,” she says. She also owns the medium size but says the large is the way to go if you are transporting a lot. In addition to her laptop, “it fits a water bottle, a lunch, my over-the-ear headphones, snacks, my wallet, and my keys,” she says. “Literally everything imaginable.”

“This bag can hold everything,” says Kevin Murray, an operations manager at REI. Peak Design originated in the photography world, so the interior of this cavernous yet portable 30-liter bag is outfitted with padding, pockets, and interior structure to keep all your gear secure. “For days when I need to bring my office with me, a full change of clothes, extra snacks, so forth, this is the bag,” Murray says. He likes how it has both top- and side-entry options, keeping even the fullest loads easily accessible, as well as built-in external straps that can be stowed away when not in use. “It keeps the same clean look whether it is stuffed full or almost empty,” he says.

“I live in Los Angeles and am starting a hotel company based in the Great Smoky Mountains,” says Ryan Abraham, a hospitality entrepreneur who needs his backpack to work in both settings. The Scandinavian vibe of this Sandqvist number —with its roll-top main compartment and easily accessible side-zippered laptop sleeve — feels right for the city and the wilderness. It’s also water resistant, made from 100 percent recycled polyester, and comes in plenty of color variations.

Photographer Alice Gao likes her Lo & Sons backpack for work and travel. It’s not super-fashionable, but your boss won’t call you in to talk about the “office dress code” either, she says, and it’s large enough to fit all her photo gear and a laptop. On a business trip, it will also easily attach to your carry-on thanks to the back sleeve that slides onto the handle.

We first heard about this rather handsome leather backpack from Vanderpump Rules ’s James Kennedy . He told us that he uses it while traveling but that it’s also good for the office thanks to its stylish look and spacious interior. “I can throw all of my DJ equipment in here for a one-night gig: my laptop, headphones, wires, USB chips. And I can also fit in a spare T-shirt and even a wash bag,” Kennedy says.

If you’re looking for a rugged-yet-work-appropriate backpack, this option is ideal (although a bit of a splurge). The bag is beloved by choreographer Justin Peck and Substack video and podcast lead Austin Tedesco alike. “Shopping for men’s work bags can be tough because most of them lean too far into tech-dork efficiency, wilderness cosplay, or impracticality,” Tedesco says. With its slightly weathered look, a Filson backpack offers “the rare good middle ground” and has plenty of pockets for storing your computer and the rest of your necessities.

Architect turned tech entrepreneur Lori Cheek says people compliment her on this backpack “on an almost daily basis.” She loves the look of the gold detailing and relies on the expansive storage space because, as she puts it, “my office is literally in my backpack and I’m always working ‘on the go.’” One of Cheek’s favorite features is the separate zipped compartment that fits her 15-inch MacBook Pro “perfectly,” but she adds that it also “fits everything else I need to successfully run my business and live out my bag from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., five days a week!”

Caleb Thill , a New York City–based content creator, swears by his black leather backpack from Montreal-based brand Want Les Essentials because it’s “definitely work and business appropriate while having a bit of edge.” At almost $700, the elegant and minimalist bag is expensive, but its sleek aesthetic makes it worth considering if you’re willing to splurge. Or, for a very similar look at a price that’s closer to $500, this same backpack comes in a canvas style with black leather trim.

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

Every editorial product is independently selected. If you buy something through our links, New York may earn an affiliate commission.

• the strategist
• accessories
• ask a cool person
• women's fashion

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

Deal of the Day

Micro sales, greatest hits, most viewed stories.

• The 15 Very Best Protein Powders
• A Huge List of Sales: Sandy Liang’s Favorite Slides and $50 Off Alex Mill
• What LaQuan Smith Can’t Live Without
• All the Best Things at GU, Uniqlo’s Sister Store
• Floating Candles, Terra-cotta Skeletons, and More Halloween Stuff on Sale Now

Shop New Arrivals

Advertisement

The Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks

By Kit Dillon

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

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

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

What we considered

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

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

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

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

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

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

The research

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

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

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

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

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

45-liter bag vs. 35-liter bag

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

A versatile small pack for a week or a weekend.

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

Buying Options

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Flaws but not dealbreakers

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

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

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L

Combines more organization with a simple interior.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Osprey Farpoint 40

For long distances on foot.

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

Osprey Fairview 40

For long distances and smaller torsos.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L

A suitcase to carry on your back.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The cheap, no-frills Cabin Max Metz bag is intriguing for the price. Any bag at this price should almost be considered disposable. That said, if you need a simple bag that costs less than a seat upgrade, this might be the way to go.

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

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

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

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

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

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

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

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

Meet your guide

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

Further reading

The Best Travel Backpack

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

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

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

Wirecutter’s Favorite Bags, Totes, Backpacks and Carryalls

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.

I Take This Backpack Everywhere. After Two Years, It’s Still Practically Flawless.

For two years and counting, Everlane’s ReNew Transit Backpack has been my go-to for commutes and weekend trips, thanks to its size, storage, and adjustability.

Best Business Travel Backpack: Professional And Functional

Looking for a business travel backpack? 

At A Glance: Our Top 3 Business Backpacks

• Best Budget Backpack AMBOR Travel Laptop Backpack Jump To Review
• Best Business Backpack for Men Samsonite Kombi Large Business Backpack Jump To Review
• Best High-End Backpack Briggs & Riley Work Large Laptop Backpack Jump To Review
• BEST LUXURY BUSINESS BACKPACK TUMI - Alpha Bravo Search Laptop Backpack Jump To Review
• best backpack for work & travel Samsonite Armage II Travel Backpack Jump To Review
• Best For 17” Laptops Victorinox Architecture Urban Rath Slim Backpack Jump To Review

In this review, we will show you ten amazing packs for business travel, from the best budget options to some very expensive high-end bags.

You will find the ideal business travel backpack no matter whether you’re looking for an affordable bag or a luxurious backpack that will last you years. Just scroll down to see the backpacks we found.

Top Product Overview

Best business travel backpacks, ambor travel laptop backpack.

The Ambor travel backpack is a great budget-friendly option. It is under $50 and it’s a really good business backpack for the money. This bag has a total capacity of 40 liters , which is spread over multiple compartments and external pockets.

That’s a great capacity for a carry-on bag; in fact, it is as much as you would get in a traditional carry-on suitcase . But with the backpack, you have better organizational features, and that’s exactly why we prefer them for business travel.

This travel pack has a spacious front-loading main compartment that’s great for clothes. There’s a separate shoe compartment at the bottom of the bag, as well as a wet pocket in the front compartment. Additionally, the laptop compartment is located in the back, and it features TSA-friendly opening, with sleeves for a 17” laptop and a tablet inside.

The Ambor backpack is also super comfortable to wear, with thick padding and breathable mesh on the backpanel. The shoulder straps are also soft and comfortable, and they feature a convenient sternum strap for improved stability.

With a pair of compression straps on either side of the bag, you will be able to dictate the size of the laptop backpack. If you don’t fill it to capacity, you can make the backpack smaller in order to stabilize the load a bit better.

This pack also has some travel-friendly features. You can hide the shoulder straps behind the backpanel, so that it’s easier to store the backpack in the overhead compartment. And there’s a luggage strap in the back, allowing you to mount the backpack onto a bigger suitcase, for easy manoeuvring of multiple luggage pieces.

• Very affordable
• TSA friendly laptop compartment
• Padded and ventilated backpanel
• No hip belt
• Does not look very classy

Product Information

• Dimensions: 21” x 13” x 7”
• Weight: 3.65 lbs (shipping weight)
• Capacity: 40 liters

Samsonite Kombi Large Business Backpack

You can’t go wrong with a Samsonite bag, whether we’re talking about backpacks, suitcases, or briefcases. The Kombi backpack is one of their best backpacks for business travels, with a tough and durable exterior and a very spacious interior.

The exterior of the bag is made from durable ballistic nylon, which has excellent abrasion and tear resistance. Nylon is also water repellant without any additional coating, so it will protect the contents of the pack in light rain. There are also some genuine leather details on the pack, which make it look more sleek and professional.

The only thing I don’t like about this laptop backpack is that the laptop sleeve is inside the main compartment, meaning that it is not TSA-friendly. But, at least the main compartment features a lot of smaller slip pockets, so it should be pretty easy to stay organized.

There are three extra compartments on the front of the pack, one of which is equipped with a tablet sleeve and an organizer panel. And there are zippered pockets on the side of the backpack, for all those smaller items you want to have easily accessible.

Additionally, this is also a great business backpack in terms of carrying comfort. The backpanel and shoulder straps are both padded and covered with breathable mesh, for excellent ventilation . The shoulder straps are even ergonomic, for an exceptionally comfortable fit on your body. There’s also a handy luggage strap in the back, which allows you to mount the Kombi backpack on top of a suitcase.

It is also important to note that the Kombi backpack is available in smaller sizes as well. But only this one can fit 15.6” laptops – the other packs can fit only smaller devices, and no Kombi backpacks are big enough for 17” computers.

• Excellent organizational features
• Padded and ventilated back system
• Luggage strap
• Laptop compartment not TSA friendly
• Does not fit 17” computers
• Dimensions: 17.5” x 12” x 7”
• Weight: 2.5 lbs
• Capacity: Not specified

Briggs & Riley Work Large Laptop Backpack

Briggs & Riley is one of the best high-end luggage brands out there. They are actually the brand behind one of my favorite business travel suitcases , which has some mind-blowing innovative features. And this travel backpack is pretty amazing as well, with lots of features that are going to make your life a whole lot easier.

For one, this work travel backpack is made from 1600D ballistic nylon with sturdy YKK zippers , so it’s virtually indestructible. If you don’t make a conscious effort to tear it into pieces, you should be able to wear this business backpack for years and years.

It’s also pretty amazing that the travel backpack has a lot of different compartments and pockets for easy organization. There’s the main storage area, the padded 17” laptop compartment that is almost TSA friendly, three zippered pockets on the front, one on the top, and two on the sides.

Plus, all of the front pockets are equipped with internal organizers, so there’s plenty of space for all those smaller accessories.

It’s also important to mention that the backpack has an RFID safe pocket , as well as a luggage tag. And you can actually fit it under airplane seats, which is pretty amazing.

This is also a very comfortable business backpack, with thick padding in the backpanel and shoulder straps. And the bottom of the backpanel actually doubles as a luggage sleeve, allowing you to secure the backpack to a larger suitcase.

If it weren’t for the hefty price tag, this would be my favorite backpack out of the bunch. But it’s aimed at a very specific audience – if you’re a modern professional with an affinity for luxurious items, this is the best travel backpack for you.

• Very durable construction
• Fits 17” laptops
• Excellent organization features
• No hip belt or sternum strap
• Dimensions: 18” x 13.5” x 8”
• Weight: 2.6 lbs
• Capacity: 27.3 ilters

TUMI - Alpha Bravo Search Laptop Backpack

In case you want a luxury business backpack for travel, the Alpha Bravo Search by Tumi is one of the top options for you. It’s an excellent high-end backpack with some amazing features that will make your travels more enjoyable, but it comes with a hefty price tag.

The Tyndall Utility backpack is made from ballistic nylon , which is a very durable material. It has great water resistance without any additional coating, as well as excellent tear and abrasion resistance.

On top of being incredibly durable, this backpack is also extremely functional. It has a spacious laptop compartment that’s not entirely TSA-friendly, but it opens at the back at an angle separate from the rest of the bag. There are sleeves for a 15” laptop and a standard tablet inside, with lots of thick padding for excellent protection of your expensive electronics. Plus, there is even a slot on top near the handle for your phone!

And there’s lots more to like about this business backpack. The main storage area is top-loading, and it can fit enough clothes for a weekend away. The bottom front pocket is equipped with an organizer panel and a key clip, while one of the side pockets boasts a waterproof lining.

You will also love how comfortable the Tumi Search pack is. With thick padding and breathable mesh all over the back system, it will keep you dry and comfy wherever you go. It doesn’t come with a chest strap, but there are points where you can attach one.

This brings me to my final point – the incredible versatility of this bag. Tumi’s entire Alpha Bravo collection is primarily designed for travelers, but this backpack is suitable for much more and not just because of the insanely rugged exterior.

It’s actually because the pack has multiple different attachment points (D-rings and webbing straps) – versatile features we usually see on outdoor backpacks, and not fancy business travel bags.

• Extremely durable and rugged
• Versatile design
• Very comfortable back system
• Dimensions: 17” x 14” x 8.3”
• Weight: 3.3 lbs

Samsonite Armage II Travel Backpack

The Samsonite Armage II Travel backpack is the perfect combination between business and travel. It has a roomy front-loading main compartment for all your clothing for a short business trip. And there is a dedicated, padded laptop pocket on the back for quick access at security. Your phone and sunglasses also have specific spots too!

Samsonite has added lots of thoughtful features to make life on the road so much easier. Using their trademarked StackIt™ Strap, you can easily throw this business backpack on top of your other luggage.

There is a 3-1-1 TSA-friendly wet pack for your wet or used clothing – so if you hit the gym on your trip, you don’t have to worry about everything smelling when you get home. Same for your tech accessories – they have a dedicated pouch so you can just remove it and get set up for that meeting in minutes!

The laptop pocket features two padded sleeves – one is suitable for computers up to 15.6”, and the other one will fit most tablets. And there is another useful organizational pocket right at the front.

The materials Samsonite have chosen for this professional travel backpack are premium with reinforced areas where they are needed and quality YKK zippers all around. And inside, it feels nice and soft, protecting your gear – with the fact that the materials are recycled ensuring you feel good about it too!

This is also a great backpack in terms of carrying comfort. The back panel and shoulder straps are both well-padded and covered with breathable mesh for excellent ventilation.  You don’t get a hip belt, but that’s not a big downside since this isn’t a very large bag.

• Laptop & tablet compartment
• Hidden pocket on backpanel
• Wet pack & tech pack removable
• Not suitable for 17” laptops
• Dimensions: 18.75" x 14" x 9"
• Weight: 2.98 lbs
• Laptop Size: 15.6 inches

Victorinox Architecture Urban Rath Slim Backpack

The Victorinox Urban Rath backpack is a good mid-range option for people who want a versatile travel backpack. It is carry-on sized with lots of travel-friendly features, but it is also just a really good laptop backpack in general. And it is also a really good everyday/work backpack, thanks to the versatile design.

This travel bag has two large compartments and five smaller zippered pockets on the exterior. The main storage area is top-loading, and it is very roomy with a large open pocket inside. You can easily fit a tablet in this pocket, while your laptop is safely tucked away in the dedicated compartment in the back.

Oh, and this backpack can fit even the bulkiest 17” devices, so it’s a great option if you usually struggle to find a bag that’s big enough for your computer. It’s not entirely TSA-friendly, but it will still help you get through checkpoints a little faster.

The Urban Rath pack also features an organizer panel in the bottom front compartment, with a key clip and enough open pockets for all your smaller must-haves. And the zippered pocket on the top of the business backpack features a waterproof zipper, so it’s the best spot for the valuable things you want to keep protected from the elements.

The backpanel features thick padding and parts of it are covered with breathable mesh for great ventilation. The only part of the backpanel that’s not covered with mesh is the luggage strap, and that’s fine.

Additionally, the shoulder straps are stowable, which is a convenient travel-friendly feature. It makes it a bit easier to store the backpack in an overhead compartment and it ensures that the straps won’t accidentally get caught on anything.

• Waterproof top pocket
• No hip belt or chest strap
• Dimensions: 7.12 x 13.4” x 18.1”
• Weight: 3.2 lbs
• Capacity: 28 liters

Kenneth Cole Reaction Business Travel Backpack

If you want a professional business backpack that looks luxurious, the Kenneth Cole Reaction travel backpack is a great choice for you. It is made from full-grain Colombian leather , and it looks a lot more expensive than it actually is! And the interior of the backpack is lined with tear-resistant polyester, and it should hold up pretty well even with frequent travel.

This laptop backpack for business features a TSA-friendly laptop compartment that can fit computers up to 16”. And it has three zippered pockets inside, so you will be able to store all of your must-have laptop accessories here as well.

In addition to that, the laptop backpack has a very spacious main compartment with three pockets inside. There’s lots of room for clothes here, and one of the pockets can easily fit a standard 9.7” tablet. This pack also features a front compartment with an organizer panel and a key clip, as well as a small zippered pocket on the top.

The back panel features three padded inserts that are covered with breathable mesh, for excellent carrying comfort. The bottom inserts also double as a trolley sleeve, But you won’t get a chest strap or a hip belt, so it might not be the comfiest business backpack to wear when it is filled to capacity.

The Kenneth Cole Reaction travel backpack is a really good bag, but it is far from perfect. It does not have any side pockets, meaning there’s no space for a water bottle. Also, the exterior of the bag is very high maintenance, and you will need to equip yourself with products for leather care if you want to keep the bag looking shiny and new.

• Sleek and professional exterior
• TSA friendly laptop compartments
• Luggage strap in the back
• High maintenance exterior
• No sternum strap or hip belt
• No side pockets
• Dimensions: 16.25” x 12.5” x 4.5” 
• Weight: 3.4 lbs
• Laptop Size: 16"

Bopai Business Travel Backpack

The Bopai backpack is another really good option for people who prefer sleek and simple-looking backpacks. Its exterior is made from waterproof microfiber leather and ballistic nylon, which will protect the contents of the bag in light rain.

This business backpack has a dedicated laptop compartment for 15.6” devices in the back that also opens up completely – aka TSA-friendly. It also has a spacious main compartment that opens up with an organisational panel on the front. On top of all that, the capacity of the bag is expandable , and you can get 40% more space with the expansion zipper.

The Bopai is a great business laptop backpack overall, but there are some things that could be improved. There’s breathable mesh on the back panel, so the ventilation is going to help on those hot days. But there is thick foam, so at least it’s going to feel very comfortable against your body. And the straps actually are covered with breathable mesh, so the front of your torso will stay dry and cool.

They have added a hidden pocket on the back panel, to stash your passport or credit cards securely. And one on the strap for easy use during bus rides or shopping trips. There’s a luggage strap in the back, which lets you attach it to your suitcase handle for easy maneuvering with multiple luggage pieces.

There are so many handy features on this pack for business travel like a USB port on the outside, specific space for an iPad, a side opening zipper on the front for easy access and more.

• Expandable capacity
• Hidden secure pockets
• Padded laptop pocket
• Backpanel not ventilated
• Dimensions: 17.8” x 11.5” x 6.3”
• Weight: 2 lbs
• Capacity: 23 liters
• Laptop size: 15.6 inches

Kroser Laptop Travel Backpack

The Kroser travel backpack is a great option if you want something affordable and filled with features. This work laptop backpack is stylish on the outside and has everything you need.

This laptop bag features three spacious compartments, all of which have their own use. The front one is great for the smaller technical stuff. The main compartment is roomy for your clothes, camera, papers and books.

The laptop pocket has a padded sleeve for a 17″ computer and a tablet, but it is not entirely TSA-friendly. It doesn’t open up 180 degrees and your laptop won’t be fully visible, but it’s still going to help you get through those TSA checkpoints a lot quicker.

The shoulder straps and back panel are padded, so it’s comfy enough to carry. And it looks great too with a modern gray plus brown leather accents in all the right places.

They have also thrown in a USB port on the outside for quick charging. Although, you will need your own battery on the inside to connect it to. Which makes sense in this price category!

All in all, I found this professional laptop travel backpack to tick all the boxes and for the price to be something of a bargain.

• Dedicated electronics compartment
• Stowable straps
• A little heavy
• Dimensions: 18.5" x 13.3" x 7.8"
• Weight: 2.64 lbs
• Laptop Size: 17.3 inches

Ytonet Rolling Laptop Backpack

Have you thought about getting a wheeled backpack? They are a great option if you don’t want to wear the backpack at all, but they are a bit less convenient for travel. The Ytonet rolling backpack features two in-line skate wheels and a telescopic wheel handle, and it’s still carry-on size.

This is a great option if your carry-on is usually very heavy. You can hide the shoulder straps so they won’t get in the way when you’re rolling the business backpack, which is really convenient. And there is a cover for the wheels  so that your clothes don’t get dirty when you’re actually wearing the backpack.

The Ytonet wheeled bag has a very spacious compartment, with internal sleeves for a laptop and tablet. It’s great that you can fit a lot of clothes in the compartment, but I’m not impressed by the fact that the laptop is supposed to be stored there. It means that the laptop backpack is pretty far from being TSA-friendly, but at least it’s pretty easy to get the device out quickly.

And you do get lots of smaller pockets, for all the other stuff you want to keep organized. The front compartment actually features an organizer panel with a key clip, and there are two other zippered pockets on the pack’s front panel. You also have two stretchy water bottle pockets on the sides, as well as a zippered compartment for the retractable wheel handle.

Let’s stay on that handle for a minute – it is made from aluminum, so it is very durable and lightweight . And this pack is actually really light for a wheeled bag; it’s about 1lb heavier than most other bags features here – pretty impressive considering this thing has wheels and a telescopic handle.

• Wheels can be covered
• Aluminum wheel handle
• Organizer panel in front compartment
• Laptop sleeve is inside main compartment
• Dimensions: 13“ x 18” x 9” 
• Weight: 4.8 lbs

Business Travel Backpack Comparison Table

What to look for, materials and durability.

It is important to know what materials your laptop backpack is made from, in order to know how to take care of them. And so you know what to expect from your backpack, in terms of durability and performance.

Nylon is usually the best material, especially if it is very high density. It is tear and abrasion-resistant, and it has decent water repellant features even without any additional coating. On top of that, nylon is really easy to clean , and you won’t have to spend hours polishing your business backpack.

The same can’t be said for leather business backpacks , which you saw a few of in this review. Especially full-grain leather business backpacks – you will need to apply some oil to those every now and then, and be very careful where you put them down.

Be gentle with leather backpacks, and try not to expose them to the elements too much. While they usually have pretty good water resistance, too much water could damage the appearance of the leather.

Polyester is another sturdy material, but it’s not quite as durable as nylon. Also, polyester doesn’t have the best water resistance , so you might want to get yourself a rain cover if you wind up buying a polyester travel backpack.

Laptop Compartment Size

The best business travel backpacks have either a TSA-friendly laptop compartment , or one that is entirely separate from the main compartment. Both options are acceptable, as they will help you get through TSA checkpoints quicker and without having to take everything out of your bag.

But, if you want to be super-efficient, then get a pack with a TSA-friendly laptop compartment. These bags usually feature a computer compartment in the back that unzips and lies entirely flat when open. The laptop is exposed, and you don’t even have to take it out of the dedicated sleeve when going through TSA checkpoints.

However, it is even more important than the laptop pocket can actually fit your computer. That’s not going to be an issue if you have a 13” device, or even a classic 15.6” one – all of the packs featured in this review can fit those devices.

But not all of them can fit 17” laptops, and if you own one of those you should be very careful which backpack you buy. Check out the size of the laptop pocket, and cross-reference the dimensions against your computer. Especially if your device is one of the bulkier ones.

Travel-Friendly Features

We’re talking about backpacks for business travel here, so it’s pretty important that they have at least some travel-friendly features. The most important one to look for is a TSA-friendly laptop compartment – this will save you a lot of time if you travel often, and it’s a must for frequent flyers.

Additionally, you should also look for backpacks that have a luggage strap, especially if you usually travel with multiple pieces of luggage. A luggage strap lets you mount the backpack on top of a bigger suitcase, so it’s much easier to move around with multiple bags.

But it’s by no means a must-have feature or something that you can’t live without, particularly if you’re used to traveling with just a carry-on.

Another thing you should look for is a front-loading main compartment, but only if you just want to use the backpack for business travel. Front-loading backpacks make packing a lot easier, but they also make the backpack a lot less versatile. So, if you solely want a carry-on bag, it’s a good idea to pick up one with a front-loading main compartment.

But if you don’t want a bag with features that are so limited, then go for one of the more versatile backpacks I showed you. Look for features like compression straps, attachment points, and lots of different extremal pockets – those pretty much define versatile backpacks that are suitable for (almost) any adventure you can imagine.

Pricing And Value

I’ve included business backpacks that cost anywhere from $30 to $600+, so there should be something for everyone’s budget. If you can’t afford to spend too much money on a business travel backpack, look for bags that are labeled as affordable in the pros boxes.

These are usually really good bags that you’ll be able to use for a couple of years at least if you take good care of them. They’re not always perfect bags, but you can’t really expect perfection at $30-40.

The pricier bags featured here are best for people who can afford them without doing too much damage to their wallets. They are better in terms of materials, durability, and comfort, but you’re still paying a lot of money just for the logo. And honestly, none of the expensive bags is more than ten times better than the average $50 one.

This is fine if you’re a seasoned business traveler, and you want people to be aware of that. Pick up one of the high-end travel backpacks featured here for a premium and luxurious experience, coupled with an abundance of travel-friendly features that will make your life a whole lot easier.

Best Business Backpacks For Travel: Our Top Choices

Having a hard time picking just one of these awesome business travel backpacks? Then just go with one of our top three options, depending on your budget!

The best affordable business backpack for business travel is the Ambor laptop backpack . It has a laptop compartment that can fit 17″ devices, as well as a really spacious front-loading main compartment. The total capacity of this bag is about 40 liters, which is as much as you get in a carry-on suitcase.

But with this business backpack, you have the benefit of multiple internal and external pockets and compartments, for effortless organization. And you’ll be really comfortable while you’re wearing the bag, thanks to the thick padding and breathable mesh on the backpanel.

If you can afford to splurge a little, go with the Victorinox Urban Rath backpack . This mid-range option is great for most people, due to the 17″ laptop compartment, comfortable back system, and a variety of internal and external pockets.

One of the bigger compartments features an organizer panel with a key clip, for all those smaller items you want to have easily accessible. And there’s even a pocket that is entirely waterproof, as well as a hidden security pocket in the back.

• PERFECT SIZE & STORAGE SPACE: For business or everyday use, you will be prepared to go anywhere with this comfortable, easy-to-wear backpack featuring storage for a 17" (43 cm) laptop and a tablet or eReader. This backpack includes a variety of multi-purpose storage pockets, zippered pockets, organization panel, two-zippered side pockets sized to hold an umbrella or water bottle and a rear hidden security pocket.
• SAFETY: Smart closures like electronics-friendly magnetic closures, snap hooks and buckles keep your belongings secure yet easily accessible while adding to the overall style. Have added protection with the Swiss Tracker Bag Tracking Program which provides comprehensive, cost-free protection against the inconvenience of a lost bag, helping to reunite you with it anywhere in the world – for free.

In case you want to spoil yourself, I’d recommend getting the Briggs & Riley business travel backpack . It’s not even the most expensive bag featured in this review, but it definitely is one of the top three options. This bag is made from some really tough nylon, it has a padded and ventilated back system and it will fit under airplane seats.

The laptop compartment can fit 17″ computers, while the main compartment features ample space for your clothes, as well as some slip pockets for those smaller items.

• 1600D ballistic nylon outer fabric resists wear, moisture, dirt and abrasion. Monogrammable leather nameplate on front panel to customize your backpack with your initials. Deep zip pocket on front panel for easy access to extra items, such as sunglasses or a phone. Durable genuine top-grain leather carry handle for convenient, comfortable carrying. Self-repairing YKK RC zippers for smooth zipper action.
• Knurled zipper pulls and luxurious, top-grain leather touchpoints offer a unique feel and modern aesthetic. Laptop compartment features dual zipper pulls that can be used with a cable lock to keep contents secure . Gusseted side zip pocket is perfect for sunglasses or a travel umbrella and includes an internal slip pocket for business cards. Gusseted side u-zip pocket with elastic band to help secure a water bottle.

Head over to Amazon to see the prices of all these awesome business backpacks. And check out our related posts if you want to look at some other options first!

RELATED POSTS: 

BEST CARRY ON LUGGAGE FOR BUSINESS TRAVEL  BEST CARRY ON LUGGAGE WITH LAPTOP COMPARTMENT

• Overview Guide
• 1 Week Itinerary
• Train Journeys
• Epic Drives
• Stunning Lakes
• Historic Castles
• Lauterbrunnen
• Grindelwald
• Chocolate Tours
• Swiss National Park
• Majestic Mountains
• Spectacular Waterfalls
• Famous Things
• Tasty Fondue
• 10 Day Itinerary
• Cherry Blossoms
• Tokyo Shrines
• Dos and Don’ts
• Osaka Guide
• Osaka Itinerary
• Osaka or Kyoto
• Kyoto Day Trips
• Matsumoto Castle
• Tokyo Luxury Hotels
• Island Hopping
• Best Campsites
• Driving Tips
• Beaune, France
• Barcelona Itinerary
• Spain Itinerary
• Greece Itinerary
• Italy Road Trips
• Berlin Day Trips
• Norway Northern Lights
• Netherlands National Parks
• Mostar, Bosnia
• Best Airlines
• Midwest Ski Resorts
• Florida RV Parks
• Washington RV Parks
• Oregon RV Parks
• Utah Camping
• Texas Camping
• Chicago National Parks
• East Coast National Parks
• Colorado National Parks
• Joshua Tree
• Yellowstone
• Alberta Hikes
• Flashlights
• Water Filters
• Sleeping Pads
• Solar Lanterns
• Tent Brands
• 4-Person Tents
• 4 Seasons Tents
• Backpacking Tents
• Beach Tents
• Cabin Tents
• Multi-room Tents
• Pop-up Tents
• Truck Bed Tents
• Underwear (Men)
• Backpacks Under $100
• Microspikes
• Boonie Hats
• In The World
• New Zealand
• Hardisde Luggage
• Lightweight Luggage
• Luggage Sets
• Spinner Luggage
• Durable Suitcases
• Duffel Bags
• Kids Luggage
• Teen Luggage
• Space Saving Luggage
• Business Carry-Ons
• Garment Carry-Ons
• Suitcases Under $50
• Travel Briefcase
• Zipperless Suitcases
• Rolling Briefcase
• Luggage Straps
• Luxury Brands
• American Tourister
• AmazonBasics
• Delsey Chatelet
• Anti-Theft Backpacks
• Backpacks Under $50
• Baby Carrier Backpacks
• Cooler Backpacks
• Backpacking Backpacks
• Climbing Backpacks
• Backpacks for Back Pain
• Beach Backpacks
• Hiking Backpacks
• Business Travel Backpacks
• Laptop Backpacks
• Backpacks for Tablets
• Commuter Backpacks
• Travel Backpacks (Men)
• Travel Backpacks (Women)
• Waterproof Backpacks
• Wheeled Backpacks
• Down Jackets
• Down Parkas
• Fleece Jackets
• Hardshell Jackets
• Rain Jackets
• Softshell Jackets
• Eco Friendly Jackets
• Gore Tex Alternatives
• Heated Jackets
• Lightweight Jackets
• 3-in-1 Waterproof Jackets
• Parajumper Jackets
• Rain Poncho
• Ski Jackets
• Travel Hoodies
• Travel Jackets
• Winter Coats
• Helly Hansen
• Mammut Jackets
• Patagonia Nanopuff
• Survival Jackets
• Flower Captions
• Waterfall Captions
• Tree Captions
• Sunset Captions
• Sunflower Captions
• Rainbow Captions
• Paddle Boarding Captions
• Hot Air Balloon Captions
• Kayaking Captions
• Airplane Captions For Instagram
• Forest Captions

Table of contents

10 Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

Some of the links on this page are affiliate links

Paring down to the essentials into one single travel bag, whether you’re heading a few hours away or traveling thousands of miles, can be fun and freeing as long as you have the right gear – and the right backpack to pack it in.

Our team at CleverHiker has spent the last 10 years traveling all over North America, from Calgary to Cancun and Hawaii to Hartford, testing more than 20 of the top travel backpacks. This guide represents the best of the best backpacks when it comes to price, comfort, and durability, as well as considerations like carry-on size and weight.

If you’re looking for more room and versatility out of your travel bag, pop over to our guide to the best duffel bags . For those who love a well-organized backpack, consider picking up some durable, compressible stuff sacks or packing cubes . And when you need easy access to your small essentials, you can’t beat a quality fanny pack .

Quick Picks for Travel Backpacks

Check out this quick list of our favorite travel backpacks, or continue scrolling to see our full list with in-depth reviews.

Best travel backpack overall:  Cotopaxi Allpa ($200)

Best budget travel backpack:  Ebags Mother Lode ($100)

Most organized travel backpack for one-bag trips:  Tortuga Outbreaker ($350)

Best travel backpack for photographers:  Peak Design Travel Backpack ($300)

Most versatile & stylish travel backpack:  Nomatic Travel Pack ($300)

Best travel duffel bag:  Patagonia Black Hole Duffel ($159)

Travel backpack with the best safety features:  Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45 ($290)

Durable & highly compressible travel bag:  Osprey Farpoint Men’s ($185)  / Fairview 40 Women’s ($185)

Most protective travel backpack:  Osprey Sojourn Porter ($195)

The CleverHiker team has been testing tons of new travel backpacks against our go-tos while we’ve traveled across the country on planes, trains, and automobiles – and there’s been quite a shakeup in the order of our list.

• The Cotopaxi Allpa moves to the number one spot due to it’s excellent balance of organization, functional pockets, cushy padding, and upbeat colorways.
• Thanks to impressive affordability and a burly build, the Ebags Mother Lode  is a close second that stands out for it’s expandable design and efficient compression straps.
• We added the Osprey Sojourn Porter 46 for it’s industry-leading durability, precise sizing as an airport carry-on, and cavernous main compartment.

Cotopaxi Allpa 35

Best travel backpack overall for organization, durability & style

Price: $200

Weight: 3 lb. 8 oz.

Dimensions: 20 X 12 X 10 in.

Options: Allpa 28 & 42

• Main compartment opens fully
• Streamlined organization
• Hideaway straps
• Raincover included
• Material marks easily

The Cotopaxi Allpa has everything we look for in a travel pack – streamlined organization, easy-access pockets, a comfortable carry, and unique style. The main compartment organization is about as close to perfect as it comes for us. There are four zipper compartments of different sizes for keeping things tidy – s0 there’s no need to add organizing cubes or stuff sacks – and they’re all made of mesh which makes it easy to see what’s inside. The trendy colorways stand out but aren’t abrasive, offering a more interesting design and flair than the endless wash of black backpacks out there. We’ve been using the durable Allpa pack for several years of travel now, and the stitching, hardware, and outer materials look just as good as the first time we used it.

• Ebags Mother Lode

Best budget travel backpack

Price: $100

Weight: 3 lb. 15 oz.

Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 10

Other Options: Mother Lode Jr.

• Fits large laptops (up to 19")
• Lightweight
• Laptop compartment isn’t as padded as others

With the features of a premium bag and a price tag from the bargain bin, the  Ebags Mother Lode travel backpack is an incredible value for the money. This expandable bag opens up suitcase-style to a tidy internal organization system with one large mesh zipper pocket and a modular “shelf” with compression straps. The shelf helps keep things, like clean and dirty clothes, separate, or it can be unclipped to make one large compartment for packing whatever way you like. We love a well-organized and durable bag, and this model from EBags has an impressive number of smartly-placedpockets, burly zippers, and 4 highly effective compression straps. As long as you don’t mind the lack of a hipbelt, the Mother Lode is an excellent choice for travelers with expensive taste and a small budget.

Tortuga Outbreaker 40L

Most organized travel backpack for one-bag trips

Price: $350

Weight: 4 lb. 8 oz.

Dimensions: 21.7 x 13.8 x 7.9 in.

Other Options: 30L Weekender

• Tons of organization
• Adjustable & supportive suspension system
• Heavily padded TSA laptop pocket (up to 16”)
• Lots of electronics storage
• Large waistbelt with compartment
• Sleek design
• Heavier than others

If you’re the type of traveler who wants everything to have its own designated space, the Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L will be your new favorite travel companion – you won’t find a better organization system on this list. The spacious main compartment opens up fully like a suitcase and has a handy mesh pocket to separate dirty clothes. It also has quick-grab pockets on the exterior for wallet items, small essentials, and a huge TSA-ready electronics compartment. If you’re carrying electronics on every trip, this bag has our favorite laptop compartment; it’s heavily padded and fleece-lined to keep your valuables protected, and can fit laptops up to 16 inches.  So many pockets may be overkill for some, but it’s perfect if you have a lot of little things to keep tidy or you love a solid, intuitive storage system. All of these features make this travel pack feel much larger than it is, and at 40 liters you’ll be able to fit everything you need for up to a wee – or longer.

Peak Design Travel 45

Best travel backpack for photographers

Price: $300

Dimensions: 2 x 13 x 11 in. (fully expanded) / 22 x 13 x 9.5 in. (compressed)

• Highly padded
• Lots of access points
• Handles on all sides
• TSA laptop pocket
• Hideaway harness
• Theft-deterrent zippers
• Heavier than some others
• No compressions straps / bulky

The  Peak Design Travel Backpack is the epitome of smart, elegant design. With its multiple access points (back, side, and front) and slick expansion system, this bag can be tailored to countless uses whether you’re heading into a high-mountain expedition in Nepal or just taking a quick daytrip to your local trails. It really shines when you have a lot of camera gear, gaming equipment, or electronics to tote, but don’t think that this bag is just for the techy crowds. Its stylish look and streamlined organization will work well for anyone wanting a single bag that can fit many niches – our take on this pack is if you’re traveling anywhere, you’ll need a pack just like this to stay organized and stylish. The biggest downside is the steep price tag, but the heavy padding, weather resistance, and stellar safety features are worth every penny for a backpack that will last for years and years of travel.

Nomatic 30L Travel Pack

Most versatile & stylish travel backpack

Weight: 4 lb. 2.3 oz.

Dimensions: 18.5 x 12 x 9.5 in.

Other Options: 40L Travel Bag

• Waterproof zippers
• TSA laptop compartment
• RFID safe pocket
• Removable hipbelt / hideaway straps
• Durable materials
• Bulky profile

The  Nomatic Travel Pack is definitely the most sleek-looking bag we tested, and it’s also chock-full of useful features. This bag is a modern and sleek take on suitcase-style backpacks, and easily transitions from a professional business tip to a trendy daily carry whether you’re in the city, suburbs, or open country. It expands from 20L to 30L making it versatile enough to work as an everyday backpack, a commuter bag, and a travel bag. We also love how many different types of storage there are, including cleverly placed magnetically expandable water bottle pockets, TSA-ready laptop and tablet sleeves with plenty of padding, and a large zippered mesh internal pocket. The Nomatic Travel Pack is very expensive, but you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better bag if style, durabilty and versatility are what you’re after.

Patagonia Black Hole Duffel 40

Best travel duffel bag

Price: $159

Weight: 2 lb. 8 oz.

Dimensions: 21 x 13.7 x 10.6 in.

Other Options: 55L, 70L, 100L

• Water-resistant
• Multiple carry options
• Fewer pockets
• No padded compartment for electronics
• Not the most comfy backpack

For those times when you want to just throw everything in a bag and go, you can’t beat the convenience and durability of the Patagonia Black Hole Duffel . We’re cheating a little bit here: while the isn’t a dedicated backpack, it easily turns into one thanks to beefy padded straps that can be tucked away when not in use. Made from burly 900-denier recycled ripstop polyester, you can put this thing through the wringer season after season without having to worry about it. The outside of the pack features 20 lash points, and seam-sealed zippered pockets on the outside of the duffel make access to smaller items fast and easy The Black Hole Duffel works great for quick trips when you need to just grab and go, or for packing those extra bulky things that won’t fit in your carry-on. Check out our list of the Best Duffel Bags  to see how it compares with our other favorites.

• Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45

Travel backpack with the best safety features

Price: $290

Weight: 4 lb. 4.8 oz.

Dimensions: 21.7 x 13 x 7.9 in.

• Built-in anti-theft & safety features
• Comfortable carry
• Takes a second to open due to safety features

The  Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45 is the ultimate pack for those travelling with valuables that need to be kept safe. It comes with locking zippers, a cable lock, and slash guards in the straps. The zippers take a minute to open when they’re in the locked position, but they open up to a nicely organized bag with simple pockets. In our experience, many travel backpacks aren’t necessarily designed with comfort in mind, but the Venturesafe was the most comfortable all-day carry for us thanks to a heavily padded back flexible hipbelt, and a sturdy chest strap – a more technical feature that’s common in hiking backpacks. If keeping your things secure is your main concern, but you don’t want to sacrifice a modern aesthetic, the Venturesafe is the pack for you.

Osprey Farpoint 40 & Fairview 40

Durable & highly compressible travel bag

Price: $185

Weight: 3 lb. 8 oz. / 3 lb. 7 oz. (Farpoint/Fairview)

Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9 in.

Other Options: Farpoint 55 & 70 (Men’s sizes), Fairview 55 & 70 (Women’s sizes)

• Comfortable
• Good compression system
• Laptop compartment is not as padded as some others
• No internal organization / pockets

The Osprey Farpoint  (men’s sizes) and  Fairview 40 (women’s sizes) are comfortable bags with quality construction. They have some of the most burly hardware (zippers, buckles, straps) of all the backpacks we tested, so they’re especially great for folks who tend to be hard on their gear, and for the rigors of travel – from rolling around in overhead bins and trunks to laying on the dirt, cement, and train station platforms, these packs are built to last. The Farpoint and Fairview have a simple approach to organization with little in the way of internal infrastructure, so we recommend picking up inexpensive packing cubes to maintain order. No matter how packed your bag is, we’re big fans of the well-placed internal and external compression straps that cinch it all down into a neat package. The Farpoint and Fairview can be tailored to many different travel styles with the option to carry as a backpack, a briefcase, or a messenger bag.

Osprey Sojourn Porter 46

Most protective travel backpack

Price: $195

Weight: 3 lb. 7 oz.

Dimensions: 18 x 15.8 x 12.2 in.

Other Options: 30L, 65L

• Good compression
• Good suspension
• Streamlined pocket organization
• A little large for carry-on with some airlines
• Sidewalls can get in the way when packing

If you’re a rugged adventurer who needs an equally tough bag, you’ve found it in the Osprey Sojourn Porter . Whether you’re throwing it under your seat on a plane, carrying it on cross-country travels, or heading to the nearby park, you can rest assured that your things are protected thanks to the padded sidewalls. These rigid sidewalls can be a little cumbersome when trying to pack the bag, but they’re excellent for compressing the load, so the bag feels streamlined even when it’s packed to the gills. The opening of the Porter is more similar to a duffel, so the interior organization is minimal. Pair the Porter with some packing cubes  if you prefer things to be more organized. The Porter is great for those looking for a simple, durable bag for the most adventurous excursions.

What’s Most Important to You in a Travel Backpack?

Traveling isn’t cheap: plane tickets, rental cars, hotel stays, and all of the essential gear can cost a pretty penny. That said, we’ve found that paying a little extra for a top quality bag means cost savings in the long run, since your bag will last for years. Luckily, a good travel bag doesn’t have to cost you an arm and a leg. You’ll find stellar options at every price point below.

Best budget travel backpacks:

• Patagonia Black Hole Duffel

Best value travel backpacks:

• Cotopaxi Allpa

Best high-end travel backpacks:

• Tortuga Outbreaker
• Peak Design Travel Backpack
• Nomatic Travel Pack

CARRY-ON SIZE

We’re big fans of one-bag travel. Not only do you save money on checked-bag fees, but you also have less stuff holding you back from adventuring. While most of the backpacks on this list are carry-on friendly, these are our favorites that fit the most common dimensions. Be sure to check measurements ahead of time with your airline and airpot, because carry-on size varies between companies.

Best carry-on size travel backpacks for most airlines (22 x 14 x 9 in. / 21.7 x 15.7 x 9 in.):

Best small travel backpacks for small airplanes (ex. IcelandAir: 21.7 x 15.7 x 7.8 in.):

• Cotopaxi Allpa 28
• Ebags Mother Lode Jr.

ORGANIZATION

Dumping everything out of our packs as soon as we reach that hotel, hostel, or spare room is part of the experience of travel – but we want everything organized and efficient inside the bag until then. When it comes to traveling, we prefer streamlined backpacks that have a small number of highly functional and well-placed pockets. Bags with built-in dividers are also our top contenders when it comes to maintaining order.

Best travel backpacks for staying organized:

Best travel backpacks with a good balance of pockets & simplicity:

Your backpack is your constant companion for trips where you’re moving around a bunch, whether you’re on a plane, a train, or navigating your way to your next stop. It’s important to find a bag that’s comfy enough to carry all day, so that you can focus on enjoying the experience. Consider options that can be used as a messenger bag, briefcase, or backpack for versatility.

Most comfortable travel backpacks:

• Osprey Farpoint (Men’s)  / Fairview (Women’s)

We’ve all been there before: you get your bag packed with your favorite outfits and hiking gear and that extra pair of shoes – and then you remember that pesky weight limit. We recommend starting with a lightweight bag to ensure you’ll use your weight allowance for the essentials.

Lightest travel backpacks:

VERSATILITY

Your bag may have to take on many different roles – daypack, purse, briefcase – so it’s good to look for one that can fill multiple niches. If you’re traveling for many hours or you’ll be hoofing it over large distances, a bag that can be carried multiple ways puts less strain on the body and is more comfortable throughout the day.

Most versatile travel backpacks:

We’ve also had our bags come out of the luggage carousel looking like they were thrown into the propellers – it’s not a good look. Travel is hard on bags, so we prioritize bags that have excellent stitching, durable fabric, and a sturdy frame.

Most durable travel backpacks:

• Osprey Sojourn Porter

THE CARRY-ON SIZED NOMATIC TRAVEL PACK IS HIGHLY ORGANIZED ON THE INSIDE & SIMPLE ON THE OUTSIDE

THE TORTUGA TRAVEL BACKPACK 40L IS THE NEW AND IMPROVED VERSION OF THE OUTBREAKER

PACKING CUBES HELP KEEP YOUR THINGS ORGANIZED IN YOUR BAG

THE PATAGONIA BLACK HOLE DUFFEL CAN BE USED FOR TRAVEL, CAMPING, THE GYM – JUST ABOUT ANYTHING

THE PEAK DESIGN TRAVEL BACKPACK IS WELL PADDED & MADE WITH DURABLE FABRIC TO PROTECT ELECTRONICS

THE PACSAFE VENTURESAFE EXP45 HAS A TON OF SAFETY FEATURES BUILT IN

Critical Travel Backpack Considerations

What size to choose.

The right size backpack is going to vary from person to person, but we typically think less stuff equals more comfort. We usually go for travel backpacks that are between 30 and 40L to maximize capacity for necessities while keeping everything in a small, tidy package.

GETTING ORGANIZED

Keeping things organized is key to a stress-free experience. Some travel backpacks come with a pocket or compartment for everything, but we prefer organizing our things in  packing cubes  for a more customizable way to keep everything neat.

The most important travel safety tip we can give is to stay hyper-aware of your surroundings, especially in places with lots of foot traffic. For additional safety, consider bringing along  small luggage locks  to lock zippers and swap out your current wallet for a  RFID technology wallets  or  card sleeves  to protect sensitive information sitting in your back pocket.

Carry-on size varies a lot between airlines, check your airline’s website to make sure your bag fits their dimensions. Also be sure your  toiletries and liquids  meet the standard of 3-1-1 (3.4 oz. liquids in 1 bag sized at 1 quart max) for carry-on. We love using refillable  GoToobs  for our shampoo, conditioner, and other toiletries.

Why trust us?

We understand how tough it is to find trustworthy gear advice, and that’s one of the main reasons we built CleverHiker. We live for outdoor adventure, and we take these guides very seriously.

• Our recommendations are completely independent and based on hands-on experience.
• We test outdoor gear for a living – we’ve logged over 20,000 trail miles and 1,000 nights in the wilderness.
• Our team has thru-hiked some of the most iconic long trails, including the Continental Divide Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, Appalachian Trail, Colorado Trail, Long Trail, Oregon Coast Trail, Arizona Trail, Pinhoti Trail, Superior Hiking Trail, as well as extensive peak bagging, and international treks.
• We field test every product we recommend, which is sadly not the norm.
• We travel to industry trade shows to stay up-to-date on product innovations.
• We continuously update our guides throughout the year and when new products launch.
• We treat recommendations to our readers as if they were for our family and friends.
• We’re lifelong learners and we’re always open to feedback. If you think we’ve missed a worthy product or got something wrong, we’d love to know about it.

Need More Backpacking Equipment Advice?

Best Duffel Bags of 2024

Best Backpacking Backpacks of 2024

Best Stuff Sacks of 2024

Best Ultralight Tents of 2024

Best Backpacking Chairs of 2024

Best Backpacking Sleeping Bags of 2024

10 Best Hiking Fanny Packs of 2024

10 Best GPS Watches for Hiking & Backpacking of 2024

Best Hiking Daypacks of 2024

4 Reasons Why “Ultralight” is Here to Stay

How to Prevent and Treat Blisters While Hiking

Mid-Range Gifts

Get the best content from cleverhiker & around the backpacking world.

Social media is great, but our bi-weekly newsletter is a much better way to stay in the know.

Sign up to get our curated emails with the best content from CleverHiker and around the backpacking world. You’ll be turned on to new videos, trip reports, gear reviews, inspiring outdoor stories and much more. So get in the mix!

Pack Hacker is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more

How To Choose The

Best Travel Backpack

The minimalist's guide to selecting a carry-on backpack for one bag travel.

• 01. Introduction
• 02. Our Picks
• 04. Function
• 05. Aesthetic
• 06. Conclusion

Fitting your life into one bag is no small task. We’re here to help.

Best Travel Backpacks

Click to learn more about why we love these top picks.

• 9.2/10: Aer Travel Pack 3 (Best for one bag travel)
• 9.1/10: GORUCK GR2 (40L) (Best for rugged adventures)
• 8.9/10: Peak Design Travel Backpack 30L (Best for travel photographers)
• 8.8/10: TOM BIHN Synik 30 (Best for built-in organization)
• 8.6/10: Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L (Best for suitcase-like organization)
• 8.5/10: TOM BIHN Techonaut 30 (Best for multiple carry modes)
• 8.3/10: ULA Equipment Dragonfly (Best for lightweight carry)
• 8.3/10: Able Carry Max Backpack (Best for daypack-like feel)
• 8.2/10: Osprey Farpoint 40 (Best for budget travelers)
• 8.2/10: Minaal Carry-On 3.0 Bag (Best for business travelers)
• 8.0/10: EVERGOODS Civic Travel Bag 35L (CTB35) (Best for carry comfort)
• 7.6/10: Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 40L (Best built-in packing cubes)
• 7.5/10: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack (Best for showing a little personality)

See all reviews: Travel Backpacks

How to Select The Best Backpack for One Bag Travel

There’s something so freeing about traveling with only one bag. All of your important stuff is within arm’s reach, and it forces you to cut down on many of life’s seemingly necessary consumer goods that you can probably live without. With one bag, you easily glide from location to location, always having just enough but never too much.

Choosing the perfect travel backpack for one bag travel can be a challenging endeavor. There are so many brands and models to choose from with varying degrees of durability, price, and try-on-ability (we made this word up for trying something out before buying it online). Add varying views and opinions into the mix from folks with different values, needs, and body types—and you’ve got a veritable clusterf*ck of options to wade through. Whether you’re a new traveler gearing up for your first trip, a digital nomad going through a “sell-all-my-stuff-and-put-it-in-a-backpack” phase, or somewhere in between, it’s essential to have the best travel backpack that works for you.

Here’s the bottom line: There is no “best” backpack that is perfect for every traveler in every scenario. However, we believe everyone can find a pack that’s perfect for their unique needs. In this guide, we’ll break down the factors we think are most important when choosing the ideal one-bag travel backpack for you.

This guide is written and informed by Pack Hacker staff, many of whom are frequent travelers and digital nomads. That means we’re using and testing these products every day to better understand what’s available out there and how each bag may appeal to different types of travelers.

If you’d rather skip all this info and get straight to the backpacks we’ve reviewed, you can take a look at our highest-rated travel backpack list in the next section, or all of our Travel Backpack Reviews . We’re constantly updating this list as we review and rate new bags frequently.

Is It Better To Travel With a Backpack or Suitcase?

We’ve found that backpacks give you much greater mobility. You can breeze through airports. You’ll never stand around a baggage carousel after a long haul again. And as long as your pack is carry-on size compliant, you’ll never lose your luggage, ever. Depending on your travel style and what you’re hauling, it comes down to your personal preference—both roller luggage and backpacks can be good options. In this guide, we’ll focus on travel backpacks for a couple of reasons:

They Feel Freeing

You’ve got both of your hands-free, and you’re not constantly dragging something behind you. No matter what terrain you’re walking on, you’ll never have the annoyance of loud or unsteady wheels behind you from standard travel luggage. Sure, roller bags work like a charm on smooth airport and hotel floors, but how about the winding cobblestone roads of Paris or a sandy beach in Ko Pha Ngan? You can traverse almost any terrain when you’re wearing a backpack.

Best Travel Backpack | Traveling with the Osprey Farpoint 40 in India.

Travel Backpacks are Versatile & Usually Lightweight

If you pack light enough, you can comfortably have all of your belongings with you at once . Did you arrive earlier than your hotel or Airbnb check in? No problem, just take your pack around with you for the day—no need to stop by and drop your luggage off. Versatility at its finest.

We can’t necessarily guarantee the pack will be lightweight if you fill it up with a bunch of heavy stuff (like camera gear), so we made a Travel Camera Guide too 🙂.

They Provide Flexibility

You’ll take up less room on the airplane or in public transit. You’ll generally feel more agile vs needing to drag around rolly luggage, with the added benefit of not looking like an out-of-place tourist. It caters to a more adventurous lifestyle by always being ready to go. And, you can easily catch that train that’s about to depart without awkwardly side-running with a roller bag or two.

Utilizing a Backpack in Travel Contexts

In this guide, we’re going for travel versatility. We want you to look good carrying these bags around in an urban environment and have the flexibility to head out on a hike for a couple of days of camping without having your backpack ruined by the elements. If you’ve got a piece of roller luggage, it’s going to be hard to do that spontaneous half-day trek on the trail to the neighboring city you’ve been wanting to check out. Likewise, if you’re going to post up at a coffee shop for a day of office work, you’re going to look out of place with a bulky, multi-colored hiking bag. The packs mentioned in this article will blend into most city environments and are durable enough to withstand the abuse of longer excursions.

Sign up to get our 5 Minimalist Travel Hacks Guide. Plus, a weekly digest of our newest content in the newsletter.

Some of our top-rated bags for your travel backpack consideration.

The Aer Travel Pack 3 takes some of our favorite travel backpack features and puts them into one bag: helpful load lifters, easy-to-engage compression straps, and easy access to different compartments. It has Aer’s sleek signature style and is made with quality materials like CORDURA® ballistic nylon and YKK zippers, which add a ton of durability and make this a reliable bag that can withstand extended travel. In fact, this is one of our highest-rated bags and a Pack Hacker Pick because of how it’s held up on trips across the U.S., Thailand, South Korea, and more.

The organization is streamlined for easy packing, and it even includes a hidden pocket where you can tuck a smart tracker—a great feature for keeping track of your bag if it’s stolen or gets lost in transit. The harness system is super comfortable even when the bag is fully loaded and includes wide, cushioned shoulder straps with keepers to cut down on dangling. We also like that there’s an option to add a hip belt because it helps take a ton of weight off your shoulders when the bag is loaded. If you don’t need as much liter space, we recommend the Aer Travel Pack 3 Small because it takes key features from its bigger sibling and puts them in a smaller package built for shorter trips and smaller frames.

Why We Like It

• It has just-right organization and open space
• Compression straps don’t impede access to the compartments, so it’s easy to grab gear quickly

What You Should Know

• Magnetic compression buckles sometimes come undone on their own
• There isn’t a huge false bottom to the laptop compartment, which impacts tech protection—more of a nitpick, as we’ve found it’s still reliable

If you’re looking for a durable pack that can handle any adventure you throw at it, look no further than the GORUCK GR2. It’s a little on the heavier side (courtesy of the CORDURA® Nylon and beefy YKK zippers), though we think the durability is worth the weight sacrifice. We’ve fit its boxy shape under the seat in front of us on some budget airlines, which is great if you’re trying to avoid fees while you travel the world (who isn’t?). In fact, this is the bag that Pack Hacker’s founder Tom used to travel the world for over 2 years.

Though the organization inside is simple, there’s still plenty of room for packing cubes and pouches. It’s covered in PALS webbing, which we use to attach MOLLE accessories like pouches that we fill with items we want quick access to on the plane or while exploring. The customization options mean you can make the pack fit your specific needs, whether it’s Digital Nomad travel or a weekend fishing trip with your family. Plus, GORUCK has one of the best lifetime warranties in the business and a killer repair program, so if you have any issues, contact their customer service.

• The external fabrics are some of the most durable we’ve seen—it even held up when we dragged it behind a car
• Plenty of PALS webbing, so it’s easy to add modular MOLLE attachments to customize your organization
• The rugged materials and hardware add a lot of weight to the pack
• It has a tactical look and feel that’s hard to disguise if that’s not your style

Since this is a bag from Peak Design, it has some great camera features. There are plenty of attachment points inside and out for your photography gear. However, it’s an excellent travel backpack even if you don’t take a DSLR on every trip, thanks to its clean lines and clever design.

The main compartment has well-structured sides and opens clamshell to make it easy to pack, although we’ve noticed that anything we store on the bottom blocks built-in mesh pockets, so you’ll have to choose between gear storage or smooth access. They’re useful for gear you won’t need until you reach your destination, and side pockets help you get to things that you need as you travel, like your passport. There’s a well-padded sleeve for your laptop, and the front pocket has organizational features for tiny gear, which is great for getting to your essentials while sitting in your airplane seat or waiting at the gate. For times when you’re not packing as much, the compression system does an excellent job at holding gear in place.

If you find that 30L isn’t enough space or you want bring more of your photo kit, we recommend the Peak Design Travel Backpack , which has the same great features and added room for your gear. It expands to 45 liters if needed and has compression snaps to lock it down if you want to use it as a daypack.

• It has a comfortable harness system, with a sternum strap that won’t slip out of place
• Structured sides and clamshell opening create a bucket shape that’s easy to load with gear
• ID pocket on the back panel is easy to overlook, so a stranger may not see it if they find your misplaced bag
• Some main compartment pockets aren’t as accessible as we’d like, which slows you down when searching for gear

Going with a lower-capacity pack reduces size and weight, meaning you can even use it as a daypack once you arrive at your destination. However, that doesn’t mean it has to be short on features. Enter the TOM BIHN Synik 30. It’s a smaller version of the Synapse and features the same top-notch and customizable organization we’re used to seeing from TOM BIHN. That means it has multiple exterior pockets for storing gear and numerous attachment points on the interior for attaching modular pouches. While we like the ballistic nylon options because they’re sleek and durable, you can opt for a different material if you want (TOM BIHN has a ton to choose from).

The style won’t be for everyone, and its round shape can make it more challenging to pack some packing cubes and pouches, causing you to lose out on some storage space in the corners (or lack thereof). However, once you’re used to the internal organization, this is one of the smartest-designed internal layouts we’ve seen in a travel backpack.

• The internal organization is great for both travel and daily carry
• Plenty of options to add modular pouches to customize gear organization
• Has a heritage look that may not be everyone’s taste
• Rounded edges can make it harder to pack with some organizers and pouches

The Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L has a thickly padded harness system, from the shoulder straps to the hip belt and the back panel, along with vertical height adjustment and load lifters for extra support. All of these features together make for a comfortable carry even when the backpack is completely full. There are plenty of places to pack your gear, including water bottle pockets on each side, a top pocket for small items like keys, a front pocket for wide but flat items, and smaller pockets on the hip belt. You can stash your tech accessories in a well-organized admin panel, and there’s a dedicated laptop compartment as well. It includes a zippered pocket for accessories, which we love for the trips where we don’t need to bring a separate tech pouch.

The large bucket space of the main compartment is simple, with no dividers to get in the way. This means you can pack however you please, whether you load up on packing cubes or fold your clothing into neat piles—though we recommend packing cubes so that things don’t get too jostled. If you’re vehemently against cubes (an interesting hill to die on, but we get it), a mesh compartment hinges along the main compartment opening for some built-in segmentation and is deep enough to hold a single layer of thick clothing or a couple layers of thinner items.

• Structured material holds its shape regardless of how much gear is inside
• Simple organization in other pockets while the main compartment is open to organize as you see fit
• Can be slow to access the large mesh pocket in the main compartment because it opens toward the inside of the pack, not the outside
• The harness system can feel a bit overkill for a bag of this size if it’s not full

The Techonaut 30 is a classic example of what makes a TOM BIHN bag great. There are a ton of durable fabric and colorway options—we like the 525D ballistic nylon because of its strength-to-weight ratio, though there are stronger and lighter-weight options available depending on your preferences. Plus, it has clever, functional organization that’s easy to load with all your gear. When we need to keep even more small items in check, we add TOM BIHN pouches to the included O-rings around the bag (we’re partial to the Ghost Whale pouches because of their size, but almost any will work).

You can carry the Techonaut 30 like a backpack, briefcase, or messenger bag, although you’ll have to get a separate strap to carry it as a messenger. We prefer backpack mode because the back panel is supportive even when all 30 liters are fully packed.

Inside, it has a variety of pockets, including an integrated water bottle pocket and two quick-grab pockets, which work in either horizontal or vertical orientation, meaning you can store gear based on the way you’re carrying the bag. Briefcase mode? Use the top pockets. Backpack? Go for the sides. However, if you need to carry some hydration, we find that the integrated water bottle pocket can cut into the main compartment, so you’ll have to trade some storage space. Though the main and bottom compartments are separated, you can expand the former via a collapsible floor, which is handy if you need a bit of flexibility with the available space. This is great if you like traveling with shoes but don’t want to buy a separate shoe pouch.

• Bottom pocket unzips to merge with the main compartment for even more storage space
• It can be carried three ways, and all of them are comfortable
• It’s tricky to see inside the top pocket because of its sideways opening
• The dedicated shoe pocket struggles to fit large shoes, which isn’t ideal for those with large feet

At less than 2 pounds, the Dragonfly is one of the lightest travel backpacks we’ve tested (and we’ve tested hundreds), yet it’s not lacking in features. The reason it’s so light is the Ultra 800™ Fabric. It’s 15 times stronger than steel by weight, twice as abrasion-resistant as nylons of the same denier, and waterproof to 200 psi, so you don’t have to worry about a rainstorm ruining your gear. The bag also has quality YKK AquaGuard zippers and Duraflex hardware. While it’s missing a ULA logo on the front, we appreciate the minimalist aesthetic.

As for gear storage, there’s a built-in carabiner and leash for your keys in the top quick-access pocket, and there are both internal and external UltraStretch™ mesh pockets to organize your gear, including large water bottle pockets. In fact, they’re so large that we’re even able to hold things like a travel tripod. Inside is a sleeve that can hold up to a 15-inch laptop or a hydration bladder, depending on what you plan to do that day. Once you’re all loaded up, internal compression straps help to hold your clothing or packing cubes in place.

However, you sacrifice a little in the harness system in the name of weight. A sturdy back panel has thin padding with aeration, and the shoulder straps have similar aeration but not as much padding. The sternum strap is also thin but helps take a little weight off when the pack is full. Plus, there are a lot of attachment loops all over the pack, which is great for modularity.

• The oversized bottle pockets fit a variety of bulky gear and up to 64-ounce bottles
• It has a quite spacious main compartment
• It can be hard to zip when fully packed
• The shoulder straps aren’t overly padded, which may not be suited for all body types

The VX21 X-Pac material on the Able Carry Max Backpack gives it a sporty look that we like, and there’s also 1000D CORDURA® nylon on the underside for durability. You won’t have to worry about the sturdiness of this bag, as it’s well-constructed, with reinforced stitching in key areas. There is plenty of room in the laptop compartment for up to a 17-inch computer and organization for your tech gear. Loops and strips of webbing around the bag give you the flexibility to pack it however you wish, and there are two quick-grab pockets for gear you want to get at as you travel. You can even get a third quick-access spot if you use the internal bottle pocket instead of the one outside the bag for hydration.

The Max Backpack is really comfortable to carry and easy to adjust. The shoulder straps have dense padding and breathable mesh undersides, with X-Pac on top for durability and style. While the tablet pocket is a bit shallow, we don’t have too many problems during regular use.

• It’s easy to customize organization thanks to webbing and loop attachment points
• The durable fabrics are held together with equally-sturdy stitching
• The X-Pac material may not suit everyone, though you can always opt for CORDURA® nylon
• A rear pocket is a bit narrow and tricky to access

This durable bag is made with recycled and bluesign® approved polyester and a PFAS-free DWR coating, which is great if you’re an eco-friendly traveler. It has a bit of an outdoorsy look, which is to be expected from Osprey. However, the external storage is hard to beat if you’re the adventurous type. A large front stash pocket holds a water bottle or damp gear like a rain jacket or towel, and there’s also a decent-sized top pocket for smaller accessories. We like that it’s big enough to tuck your 3-1-1 bag inside to keep it within reach through the security line at the airport. The main compartment opens fully clamshell, and is easy to pack since you can see all the space at once. A couple of mesh pockets inside help organize your gear, and compression straps hold clothing or packing cubes in place as you travel. The large laptop compartment is accessible from the outside of the bag, so you can get some work done as you wait for the plane to board.

What’s really great, though, is how comfortable you’ll be while carrying this bag. The breathable mesh back panel keeps things airy, and the harness shifts higher or lower so you can adjust it to your height and torso length. If you have a more petite frame but want to carry the same amount of gear, try the Osprey Fairview 40. As opposed to coming straight over your shoulders, these curve in and around, making it easier to carry for more petite users of any gender.

• The harness system is comfy even when the pack is fully loaded
• An ample-sized main compartment makes this a great pick for one bag travel
• You can’t remove the bulky hip belt even if you don’t need it
• There aren’t any dedicated bottle pockets, and the front pocket can be tight for larger bottles

The 35L Minaal Carry-On 3.0 for one bag travel is aesthetically sleek and has smart features to improve quality of life on your trip. If you carry a lot of tech, you may appreciate that the laptop compartment lays completely flat, making it easy to load and access on the go. It has a suspended laptop sleeve that you can adjust to different sizes, so your 13-inch MacBook Air isn’t drowning in a pocket designed for a big gaming computer. Plus, the shoulder straps hide away behind a zipping panel, which we find makes it easy to slide this backpack into an overhead bin.

The main compartment opens clamshell for easy packing and includes some built-in organization. However, unlike most other backpacks, you load the bag into the “scoop” section (the front of the bag) instead of the back. This takes a little getting used to, though it’s easy to use once you do. While we recommend taking advantage of packing cubes for most of your gear, there is a large mesh pocket at the top, along with a nylon pouch below it where you can pack shoes. Two external pockets give you quick access to your wallet, phone, and small accessories, and there’s also a security pocket behind the back panel for your passport. Just be careful when using the water bottle pocket, as they can slip out even when the bungee is tight.

• It’s great to be able to securely carry devices of different sizes in the adjustable sleeve
• Excellent accessibility since both compartments open fully clamshell
• You have to pack it “scoop side down,” which can get unwieldy without packing cubes
• The bungee designed to hold a bottle in place doesn’t always work as intended, and some bottles slip out

Some packs are designed with a specific use in mind, and others are designed to be as versatile as possible. Every once in a while, you’ll come across a bag that does both (and does it well). The features on EVERGOODS’ Civic Travel Bag 35L, or CTB35, make it one of the most versatile travel backpacks we’ve seen on the market.

There’s plenty of organization to choose from without going over the top, meaning there’s a spot for large and small gear alike. The main compartment has ample space, so we’re able to fit everything from a camera cube to bulky shoes inside, and it even has a few zippered pockets for small items like tech. As for external storage, there’s a built-in yoke pocket on the top and a vertical zippered pocket on the front that we like to use as a dump pocket for our phone, wallet, keys, and more while going through airport security. Plus, there’s an easily accessible laptop compartment if you work on the go. The harness system is contoured nicely, which makes this backpack incredibly comfortable to wear even when fully packed, so we have no problem carrying it all day long.

We like the 35-liter option because it’s big enough to work for long trips. However, if you’re into the organization but want something smaller, it also comes in a 26-liter size (which we like equally as much).

• The harness is well-padded and comfortable even when the pack is completely full of gear
• It strikes a balance between built-in organization and empty space, so you’re not pigeonholed into packing your gear a specific way
• Since the organization is so minimal, you’ll need to find a way to manage things like clothing—we recommend utilizing packing cubes
• We find it difficult to stow the hip belt without it twisting a bit, so it takes a bit of finesse to get right

We like the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag so much that we chose it for the first iteration of our Vacation Packing List . The large size makes sense because you can fit more gear; however, there’s a smaller 30-liter size that we find is better for smaller-framed folks and people who want to save space. Why do we like it so much? We’re happy you asked!

These packs have built-in organization options inside the main compartment, including a divider with zippered pockets that we use to stow smaller items like socks and underwear, but it’s also great for tech or miscellaneous gear. There’s also a large second compartment, a dedicated laptop compartment, and a quick-grab pocket on the front that’s handy for gear you’ll need throughout the day. While all of this organization is great, it’s worth mentioning that all of these zippered pockets are pretty shallow, so you’ll have to pack strategically to ensure your bag will zip up when everything is loaded in. On the plus side, the liner is brightly colored, which makes finding your stuff that much easier!

If all of that space isn’t enough for you, there are attachment points on the front of the bag where you can attach an additional daypack. The harness system isn’t our favorite because there’s no frame sheet to add structure and it can feel pretty heavy when it’s all packed out, but the hip belt does a good job taking some weight off your shoulders.

• There’s ample organization to segment your gear, making it easier to find
• The bright liner material adds a ton of visibility when we’re looking for our stuff in the multiple zippered pockets
• Can be difficult to slide a laptop into the dedicated compartment when the bag is fully packed because of how it starts to bulge
• It’s not the most comfortable bag we’ve worn for extended periods because the back panel lacks significant structure

While some travel backpacks fit best in an urban setting, the Allpa 35L Travel Pack works as a hiking or work bag as well as a travel pack. However, just because it can serve other purposes doesn’t mean it’s lacking in the travel department. It has a refined design and ample space that make it easy to pack for vacation, with mesh dividers and organizers inside to help you keep your gear sorted. While the exterior materials aren’t very structured, you’re unlikely to reach for this large of a bag unless you plan to pack it out, so it’s not always noticeable. The polyester is coated with TPU for water resistance, so your gear is safe as you walk in nearly any weather.

If you’re getting started on your journey into one bag travel, you can get the Allpa with an accessory bundle that includes mesh laundry bags, a nylon shoe bag, and a snap-on mesh water bottle sleeve. You also have the option to add-on Cotopaxi’s Batac Daypack, so you can have a complete travel system ready with just one click. And in case you needed another reason to consider Cotopaxi, you should know that their bags are made in the Philippines in a factory committed to fair labor and environmentally-sound practices, so you can feel good about your purchase, too.

• It’s a ruggedly durable backpack if you’re a more adventurous traveler
• The bag feels roomy and conveniently-placed pockets for small gear storage
• Hip belt isn’t removable if it doesn’t fit, and the pockets often feel too snug when wearing the bag
• It’s on the heavy side for its size

Decisions, decisions… Navigating the not-so-clear world of travel packs.

Video Guide Part 2: Form

Feel free to watch this guide section in video format. We’ll keep the written content on this page up to date.

Be sure to subscribe to Pack Hacker on YouTube and never miss a video. We also have these videos in a series playlist format on YouTube so you can watch them easier.

Best Backpack Size & Weight for Carry-On Air Travel

We favor smaller bags that fit in the overhead bin. Yes, it can be a challenge to fit your entire life into a 40L bag, but wow, is it worth it!. Trust us—you can fit your entire life into an 18L backpack if you’re disciplined, and we highly recommend staying under 50L for one bag travel. Life is just easier with a smaller & lighter backpack. If you want to cheat a bit and get some extra space, you can also go the sling bag on the front, backpack on the back route.

Airlines can get pretty stingy around the amount of weight you can bring on board. It’s essential to make sure your backpack itself isn’t too heavy, or you won’t be able to fit in as much clothing and other travel gear. We’re all for less clothing and gear, but we are not for getting hit with extra fees if your carry-on is overweight. Starting out with a bag that’s already too heavy before you’ve packed it is just setting yourself up for failure! We calculate a carry-on compliance score for every travel backpack reviewed on our site using its dimensions and data we collect from most airlines worldwide.

True Volume

It’s easy to get caught up in all this talk around liters of a backpack. There’s really no “industry standard” around this, and the liter size of a pack can vary from brand to brand. What’s more important is the “True Volume” of a backpack and how usable the space is. Some weird, trapezoid-shaped backpack will certainly be more of a challenge than something with a larger, rectangular compartment. The thickness and flexibility of the material matter as well. A thin, strong material will leave you with more space inside of a backpack than something with thick padding in the liner. However, a rigid material—Dyneema, for instance—doesn’t have much additional flex and isn’t very forgiving when you’re trying to pack your bag to the brim. The efficiency of space can make or break the usefulness of a pack.

Pack’s Exterior Profile

The slimness of a pack can help out quite a bit. Not only does it seem less heavy because the weight is close to your back, but it has the added benefit of giving you a smaller, slimmer form factor. With this, you won’t be taking up too much room on public transit or smacking people in the face when you’re boarding the airplane—it’ll be a better experience for you and everyone around you.

Max Legal Carry-On

Otherwise known as “MLC,” Max Legal Carry-On size covers the largest acceptable backpack size for carrying on most airlines. Make sure to check with your airline before arriving at the airport, though—size limits can vary based on the airline you’re flying with.

The Peak Design Travel Backpack is a well-executed travel bag from a company with an excellent track-record of bringing innovative and unique designs to the backpack world. This maximum legal carry-on can easily handle one bag travel, photography, or digital nomading with ease—and it will be a joy to use for any of those activities.

Top-loading vs Panel-loading (Clamshell) Backpacks

There’s a big debate around clamshell and top-loading packs. We’re personally a fan of clamshell for one-bag travel, as it gives you more open space to work with. Clamshell functions more like a suitcase and opens literally like a clam. You can easily open it up flat and see everything inside, so it tends to be easier to organize all your travel gear.

The Able Carry Max Backpack is a clamshell-style backpack that opens to give you easy access to a spacious main compartment—this works great for packing cubes or rolled up clothing—whichever you prefer! Also, it’s got a large but low-profile water bottle pocket.

Top-loading packs are great if you’re on a long, multi-day trek or participating in other outdoor-focused activities as there’s no main zipper that can fail you (which could be catastrophic if you’re halfway up Mt. Everest).

The Thule Subterra 34L is a top-loading backpack with a roll top opening. A top loader’s usual pitfalls are fixed by an easy to access side zip that allows entry to the main compartment. This zip comes in handy when you don’t have time to mess around with the roll top, or you want to grab something located at the bottom of the bag.

Weather Resistance

Best Travel Backpack | The GORUCK GR2 features “weather resistance” but it’s not “waterproof.”

Weather resistance is another key component to consider for one bag travel. With all your tech gear and expensive possessions in your pack, you don’t want it to get wet. We look for packs with some great weather resistance that’ll easily get you through light rain and ideally through 20 minutes of a monsoon in Southeast Asia. There’s a big difference between waterproof and water-resistant bags. We’re mainly focused on the latter, as this will be plenty in most situations. Sure, waterproof is more secure, but unless you’re leaving your pack outside in a torrential downpour for hours on end or plan to go snorkeling with your laptop on your back, there’s no need for that extra tech.

The Mission Workshop Fitzroy VX utilizes weatherproof materials and weather-resistant zippers. We’ve found it to hold up decently in a downpour. Even if you’re caught in a pretty torrential rainstorm, you should be okay with the PET waterproof membrane.

Got something that needs some additional weatherproofing? Consider picking up a DAKA Pouch . It’ll give your valuables that extra layer of protection without requiring you to purchase an entirely waterproof bag—plus, these pouches double as organizers, separating your precious gear from the rest of your loadout with some additional protection to boot. It’s a win-win.

Durability and Quality

Whether you’re traveling for a week, a month, or a year plus, your backpack is pretty much your home, so you don’t want it to break. Take it from us—the last thing you want is to find out that you lost your phone charger because your zipper broke during the journey to your next accommodation. Investing in a good backpack will prevent loss and damage to your gear, and higher quality products will last for several years. It can be a challenge to tell if a backpack is durable right out of the box, which is why we test bags as much as possible to notice any faults. Higher durability usually means higher weight, but not always. Here are a couple of key considerations we’ve found when it comes to durability.

When it comes to durability, the Topo Designs Travel Bag 40L doesn’t mess around. The 1000D nylon, beefy YKK #10 zippers, and simplistic design all come together to create a bag that won’t let you down.

YKK zippers are some of the best around, so naturally, the best travel backpack brands tend to use them. They’re super strong and have different weights depending on the area of the pack they’re used. A YKK #10 will keep a main compartment secure, whereas a YKK #5 may be suited for smaller side pockets that don’t receive as much use or tension.

YKK is obsessed with quality, and they do everything in-house. They smelt their own brass, forge their own zipper teeth, and even make the machines that make their zippers and the cardboard boxes they ship in! Needless to say, you probably won’t end up with any broken zippers with YKK on your side. YKK zippers also account for about half of all zippers in the world, so that says something. Although less popular, RiRi zippers are pretty great too. Both RiRi and YKK are superior to any other zipper made in-house by a bag manufacturer, and Zoom Zippers are climbing up on that list as well, though we still find intermittent issues with them.

Backpack Fabric and Material

There are a ton of fabrics and materials out there, too. When looking at fabrics, you’ll often see a number followed by a D—250D, 950D, 1500D, etc. The D stands for denier, a term used to measure the fabric’s thickness and weight—specifically the yarn. The formal definition is the mass (in grams) per 9,000 meters of thread, so lightweight fabrics (like silk) have a very low denier, while heavier fabrics have a higher denier. When it comes to backpacks, a higher denier is not necessarily better. In general, a higher denier will be more durable (depending on the fabric & weave) but also heavier. While the denier can tell you the weight and thickness of a material, the type of material, weave, and manufacturing involved will ultimately tell you more about its strength and durability. Here are some materials you’ll come across when selecting your pack, along with the pros and cons of each one.

Ripstop Nylon

Pretty close in property to standard nylon, “ripstop” nylon has a unique square weave that prevents further tearing from happening after a puncture. It has an incredibly high strength-to-weight ratio, and, as the name implies, it is highly resistant to rips and tears. The reason why it’s so strong is that additional fibers are sewn into the weave. Ripstop Nylon was developed in World War II as a more robust alternative to silk parachutes and is currently used in ejector seat parachutes for fighter pilots!

Ballistic Nylon

Ballistic Nylon refers to any nylon fabric with a “ballistic weave,” a variation on the simple basketweave. This gives it excellent tensile and tear strength—especially when layered—and makes it heavier than a lot of other materials. Keep in mind that ballistic nylon almost exclusively comes in black. Why is it called ballistic? It was initially used on flak jackets for World War II airmen to protect them from artillery-shell and bullet fragmentations. PSA: We do not recommend the use of backpacks for protection in war zones.

CORDURA® Nylon

CORDURA® is not a fabric in and of itself—it is a brand covering a whole host of different materials, from cotton to nylon to polyester. What they do is take fabric from various mills, inspect it to make sure it’s up to their standards, and then slap that CORDURA® tag on it. Yes, it’s a bit deceiving, but they do put out some high-quality stuff. You’ll mostly always see a “®” next to “CORDURA” (in all caps) because #branding and #lawyers.

Kodra Nylon

Kodra is virtually synonymous with CORDURA® but made in Korea. Peak Design opted for this in V1 of their Everyday Backpack.

Polyester is one of the most common fabrics on the planet. It’s made from plastic fibers, and you can find it pretty much everywhere—in clothing, pillows, seat belts, upholstery, rope, the list goes on… Oh, and backpacks. Polyester is not the most durable fabric, so you’ll usually find it on lower-end packs (think of those classic Jansport backpacks everyone had in high school). It’s really not the most suitable choice for a travel pack—as it just won’t hold up through the years. Besides lacking in durability, polyester is also fairly heavy compared to other fabrics like nylon. If you’re looking for a low-budget day pack, polyester is fine. If you’re looking for something more serious, stay away from it.

Polypropylene

Polypropylene is a polymer that is used to make fabrics. This stuff is seriously everywhere—it is the world’s second most widely produced synthetic plastic! It’s used to make ropes, carpets, labels, plastic lids on tic-tac containers, plastic chairs, long underwear…basically, if you see something made of plastic, there’s a solid chance there’s some polypropylene in it. You’ll find it mostly in minor backpack components, but it’s also used to make drawstring bags and totes like the ones that are handed out for free at a college fair or festival. Polypropylene fabric has a few things going for it. It’s cheap, it’s a good insulator because it doesn’t transfer heat very well, and it won’t absorb water since it’s hydrophobic. The major problem with polypropylene is that it is not very UV resistant. If it’s repeatedly exposed to sunlight, the fabric will fade and break down over time. This is not great for backpacks. You may, however, see polypropylene used as a liner on the inside of some packs as it won’t be affected by UV light and adds some additional protection.

You could say that canvas is the OG backpack material. Back in the day, canvas was just about the only thing you would use for a “backpack,” outside of maybe a burlap sack thrown over your shoulder. In World War II, GI’s carried all their equipment around in canvas packs and slept in canvas tents. Canvas very thick and sturdy and was historically made from cotton, linen, or hemp coated in wax for waterproofing. Today, canvas tends to be made from things like nylon and polyester. Most modern backpack companies shy away from canvas because it’s usually heavy, not overly water-resistant, and easily damaged by abrasion. If you’re looking for a canvas one-bag travel pack, you’re not going to find much out there. However, if you want the nostalgia factor, you can still find a bespoke canvas bag to satisfy that.

We may need to scrap our statement on canvas because leather is arguably as OG as it gets. Its use has been traced back as far as Ancient Greece and Rome! Like canvas, you’re not going to see many travel packs made of leather. While a leather bag can make for an excellent, stylish daypack, it’s not ideal for a long-term travel pack, mainly because of its weight. There is also a lot of potential care involved. Between protective oils and various cleaning techniques, it can be a hassle to deal with if you’re on the move. There are three grades of leather—genuine, top-grain, and full-grain.

Contrary to popular belief, genuine is the lowest grade of leather while full-grain is the highest. Full-grain is used for heavy-duty use-cases like weapon holsters and work belts, so if you’re dead set on a leather pack, we’d recommend looking for full-grain leather. Ideally, you’ll want to find something thin enough to not be overly heavy while still thick enough to ensure durability.

The actual material is called ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene… but most know it as sailcloth (yep, the same material used on a sailboat). A relatively rare material for backpacks, brands like Tortuga have taken advantage of sailcloth due to its lightweight and water-resistant properties. It is by far the most lightweight and waterproof material on our list (no need for DWR or liners), but it does have some drawbacks. It’s stiff and crinkly with zero stretch, which can cause problems if you’re trying to utilize every nook and cranny of your pack. It isn’t quite as indestructible as some other materials listed, but it’s reasonably durable and can be patched. It also tends to be one of the most expensive backpack materials out there.

Dyneema® Composite Fabric

In May 2015, Dyneema purchased Cubic Tech, the creator and manufacturer of Cuben Fiber, and rebranded it as Dyneema® Composite Fabrics. So, Dyneema® Composite Fabrics = Cuben Fiber. This stuff was initially designed for high-tech sails on racing yachts because it is ridiculously light and robust. As such, it has been adopted wholeheartedly by the ultralight backpacking community. It’s sort of like the carbon fiber of the backpack world—high-tech, super strong, super light, and…super expensive. While Dyneema® Composite Fabric is popular within the ultralight backpacking community, it has yet to become commonplace in the one-bag travel scene. That being said, if you do see Dyneema® Composite Fabric, you should know that you’re getting some of the best stuff around.

Thermoplastic polyurethane —TPU for short—is a polymer used to add strength to a material, either through a manufacturing process or coating. You’ll recognize it on products like inflatable rafts, phone cases, wire cables, and footwear. Think stuff that needs to be as durable as possible to avoid things going south for the user. It easily sheds water and oil, resists abrasions, and won’t crack in high or low temps, making it ideal for frequent outdoor use. Unlike polypropylene, TPU is UV-resistant and won’t be subjected to the same amount of fading over time. If you’re the type of traveler who wants extra peace of mind on the go, you’ll want to keep an eye out for TPU because of the extra strength it adds to a pack, but we wouldn’t consider a lack of TPU a deal-breaker.

X-Pac is not so much a fabric as it is a bunch of fabrics smooshed together. With the help of lamination technology, it combines complementary materials to make an overall higher-performing product. Though there are variations in denier and waterproofing, it’s most commonly made up of a nylon face for durability, polyester mesh for strength, and waterproof film that won’t disappear over time. Like Dyneema® Composite Fabrics, it was inspired by the efficiency of sailcloth but is a less costly option that provides a similar level of ultralight performance. It holds its shape over time, won’t fade with UV exposure, and easily sheds moisture, making it great for outdoor enthusiasts who hike and bike with their pack on the regular. However, it may be a bit overkill for casual travelers unless you’re looking for a backpack for epic mountain climbing adventures.

Ultimately, the production process and design will dictate whether your gear will stay together. If a bag is made with 1000D CORDURA®, but it doesn’t have good zippers to match, it doesn’t matter how good the fabric is. Look for brands that proudly back their product with generous warranties, like GORUCK and their “SCARS warranty” or Patagonia and their “Ironclad Guarantee.” These brands know they make quality products, so they’re happy to back it up. If a brand offers no warranty or a short warranty, there’s probably a financial reason for that, and the quality may not be as high. We’re all about buying quality pieces that last versus something that’s going to need repair or replacement year after year.

Whether you’re hopping on a plane or navigating city streets, you need a backpack that can hold up.

Video Guide Part 3: Function

Best Backpack for Comfortable Wear and Extended Travel

Comfort is a big deal when it comes to one-bag travel—especially if you plan to carry the bag around with you for hours on end. You’ll want a high-quality harness that works with the shape of your body. When selecting a bag, it’s crucial to take your height and body type into consideration. Although this matters more for hiking backpacks where you’re carrying a ton of gear, it’s less important for smaller, one-bag travel packs. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t think about it before you make a purchase. A backpack suited for someone that’s 6’5″ and 250 pounds probably isn’t the best travel backpack for someone that’s 5’3″ and 140 pounds. Buying something that doesn’t fit your frame correctly will make for some seriously uncomfortable travel.

Men’s Focused Fit Vs Women’s Focused Fit

Some backpacks are only available with a “one size fits all” harness system, but there is an ever-increasing number of women’s focused fit and men’s focused fit travel backpacks on the market. For example, the Thule Landmark 40L , REI Ruckpack 40 , and Deuter AViANT Carry On Pro 36 are all available in two different fits. The differences are subtle but have a big impact on how comfortable the harness system is on your frame. Compared to a men’s focused fit, a women’s focused fit backpack will typically feature:

• Smaller hip belt with a more pronounced curve

Backpack Straps

You’ll want to look for bags with high-quality straps that work for your body type. A mismatch here could lead to an uncomfortable carry, even with only a little weight inside.

Even though the GlobeRider45 has the functionality and looks of a travel backpack, it carries more like a daypack. Its shoulder straps feature dense padding that curves and falls naturally to the body. A relatively high top area does give it a very slight hiking backpack feel, but it’s an overall tameable bag to travel with, considering its 45-liter storage capacity.

The thickness of straps doesn’t necessarily matter. Thinner straps that use high-quality foam may be more comfortable than thicker, bulkier straps.

If you’re concerned with weight, look for bags that include load lifters – these are the adjusters that appear at the top of the straps. This concept is borrowed from larger hiking backpacks and does wonders for fitting the bag well to your back with different loads.

Some straps swivel and pivot to cater to different shoulder widths and make it easier to quickly flip the pack around to access the goods you’ve got inside.

We’re middle-of-the-road on hip belts for one-bag travel backpacks. They can help a ton if you’ve got a heavier load or plan to carry your pack for long stretches but aren’t necessary if you pack minimally in a smaller pack.

A good hip belt should be comfortable and secure without becoming too cumbersome. There are few things worse than hitting people with your bulky hip belt while walking down the aisle of an airplane. We’d recommend taking a look at travel backpacks that feature a detachable or hideable hip belt, so you don’t have to use it when you don’t need to.

Sternum Straps

Nearly all travel backpacks include a sternum strap. They’re designed to distribute some weight away from your shoulders and secure the shoulder straps across your chest.

While sternum straps are all pretty similar across the board, there are a couple of things we’d recommend looking out for. First, some will feature an elasticated portion that allows the strap to flex with your body as you walk. We’re big fans of these. Second, some sternum straps can be detached, leaving them vulnerable to falling off when not in use. We’re not kidding; this has happened to us on multiple occasions. Not good, especially when you’re traveling halfway around the world in remote locations! A detachable sternum strap is great when you don’t always need to use one, and it makes adjusting the height easy. Just make sure it’s secure and adequately anchored to the shoulder straps.

A well-designed back panel can make things much more comfortable. Although it’s hard to avoid the old sweaty back with more extended periods of wear in hotter climates, well-ventilated mesh and foam can help with this. A curved frame can help with ergonomics and ventilation, but we don’t see this on many travel-focused backpacks. Sometimes, it seems like overkill.

How Do you Pack the Thing?

With all these fancy features, it’s essential to consider how you should use them and how you pack your bag. Generally speaking, you want to load the heaviest items closest to your back. This’ll ensure the heaviest bits of your bag are the closest to your center of gravity, pulling you down less from the back of the bag.

Best Travel Backpack | Configuring a backpack.

If you’ve got all the features mentioned above, you want to strap and tighten your hip belt first, then adjust the shoulder straps, then tighten the load lifter straps (the straps on top) to a 45° angle, and finally, adjust and tighten the sternum strap.

The Heimplanet Travel Pack 34L (V2) has a horseshoe zipper at the top front of the pack, which opens up to allow you to reach into the main compartment and grab essential items rather than opening up the full clamshell. It also features liter independent compartments and pockets, which are great for packing to the absolute limits. Check out the smaller 28L version, too.

Modular Backpack System

If you want more options for customization, check out modular gear. To put it simply, this is gear that brands design to work with their bags. They allow you to make a bag suit your preferences, adding and swapping parts as needed instead of trying to fit your gear into the organization already installed in your pack. Anyone who uses a bag with PALS webbing, for example, will tell you how convenient it is to have loops ready where they can stick MOLLE accessories. Whereas PALS webbing and MOLLE attachments are one of the better-known standards out there, brand-specific modularity and attachment systems also exist.

In fact, some brands, like ALPAKA , TOM BIHN , Boundary Supply , and Roark , are known for it. We like to count how many O-rings we can find on each TOM BIHN bag we buy because that’s where we can clip the brand’s key leashes, admin pouches, packing cubes, and more.

These great for carrying tiny travel accessories wherever we go. Sizes range from Super Mini, which can hold AirPods, chapstick, and similarly sized items, to A5, which is big enough for an A5-size notebook and pens. They’re made from scrap fabric, so you can feel good about saving them from the cutting room floor. They clip to the O-rings in a TOM BIHN bag or a loop on another backpack to save you from digging for small gear.

ALPAKA’s HUB Ecosystem lets you swap your keys, sanitizer, card holder, and more between your bags. Pull the Hypalon tab to release the magnetic fastener to swap your gear, then attach it to different points throughout their bags or the HUB ModPanel hanging in your house. Then you’ll always be able to find your keys.

The Prima System includes a 30L travel backpack, the Fieldspace admin panel, and Verge Camera Case. The Fieldspace holds a tablet or small laptop, plus small accessories, docking to the laptop compartment with a magnet, so it’s removable if you don’t need it. The camera case is also fully customizable and can sit inside the pack, connect to its exterior, or be carried separately.

Organization: Multiple Travel-Focused Features or One Big Compartment?

Some backpacks take the approach of having a massive inner compartment with no organization. This is great if you’re planning on using some packing cubes or compression sacks, but not so great if you want a little more internal organization out of the box. More things to consider: is there a dedicated place to put a pen or two for those pesky customs forms? Is it easy to grab? How about a dedicated laptop compartment (or, for that matter, a dedicated laptop bag )?

This iteration of Tortuga’s travel backpack design gives more control to the user. It has fewer organization options than its predecessors, but the extra space and weight savings can be better used for packing cubes and organizers. Those already invested in such accessories will find the wide and spacious main compartment easy to fill and navigate.

Packing Cubes

Packing cubes can be a great addition to your luggage regardless of whether the bag is one massive compartment or has a couple of smaller pockets inside. Packing cubes allow you to organize clothing between type, outfits, clean or dirty, and much more.

The Osprey Transporter Global Carry-On’s size and shape make it easy to pack with cubes. Plus, the light gray interior makes it easy to find your gear.

Compression and Expandability

If you’re going with one bag, versatility is essential. Ideally, your pack will cater to different amounts of items that are packed in the bag.

Some packs even offer detachable daypacks, but they tend to be slightly larger in liters to justify the additional use of materials (extra zippers and extra straps.) If you’re looking for a small travel daypack , consider some highly compressible bags from Matador . There won’t be any padding on these, but you could also pair these with a padded field pocket from GORUCK or a padded laptop compartment if you want to cafe-hop and work for the day.

If you are looking for a more padded daypack, a Mystery Ranch In and Out Packable Daypack , or something like a Fjallraven Kanken 13″ Laptop Backpack could work. At the end of the day, you’re packing another set of straps, padding, and zippers—all space and weight that’s being subtracted from your main pack.

We like sticking to one bag whenever possible, and there are some bags out there with the right size and look that can be used as a daypack and for one bag travel.

The Thule Aion 28L Backpack expands to 32L when you need more space for a trip. Use the extra room when you’re traveling, then empty it and compress it back down when you arrive at your destination to have a slimmer bag that can be used as a daypack while walking around.

Another great option is the Osprey Farpoint 40 , mentioned above. One of our team members has utilized the compression straps to carry his tripod while traveling to numerous countries.

Security Backpacks

Be on the lookout for packs with great security features. Are the zippers lockable with TSA approved locks? Are there separate secret security compartments to place your passport and other valuables in hard-to-reach places? Is it made of a solid material to prevent the quick slash-and-grab? Are the outer pockets minimized to make it hard for a thief to unzip and grab what they want quickly?

A lot of safety when traveling comes down to common sense and your own self-awareness, but there are a couple of pack features that can make your trips a little bit safer.

Lockable Zippers & Anti-Theft Backpacks

Some packs offer lockable zippers, or special looped zipper pulls that can be configured to deter thieves. Locking the zippers on your pack won’t turn it into an anti-theft backpack—someone can still take it or cut through the fabric—but it can help stop wrongdoers from quickly unzipping your bag for a quick-grab, or make them move to the next easily accessible bag on a train or bus. No backpack is impenetrable, though, and some of these features on backpacks can be gimmicky—included just so the purchaser has some peace of mind—even if the benefit isn’t that great. Peak Design’s security features (example below) and PacSafe’s Tough Zip put a lot of emphasis on that extra layer of security.

The zippers on the Peak Design Travel Backpack come with multiple locking features. This won’t necessarily deter all theft, but it’ll stop anyone from the old unzip & grab trick, and it won’t be against TSA Guidelines.

Anti-Theft Backpack Materials

Some bags offer more robust fabric that naturally enforces the bag. As we mentioned before, materials like Ballistic Nylon, CORDURA®, and others are super helpful with this. Some companies even include special mesh wiring, like Pacsafe’s eXomesh®, that almost theft-proof your backpack, allowing you to lock it to a fixed object for added security. EXomesh® is either lined inside the fabric and can also be purchased externally with other backpacks. For the type of traveling we do, we think this is a little paranoid and adds some weight plus another thing to carry. But depending on your situation, it could be helpful. Strolling through Tokyo? Probably not necessary. Heading to Barcelona for the first time? Yeah, we’ll take that extra layer of security.

RFID Blockers (Identity Theft-Proof Backpacks)

We feel that having a bunch of RFID-blocking tech covering an entire backpack is overkill. Sure, it’ll stop folks from electronically scanning your passport, but If you’re concerned with this, you could get a special wallet or wrap your passport & cards in aluminum foil. Let’s face it—it’s much less effort for a thief to physically grab what they want from you than dicking around with RFID technology. But again, whatever helps you sleep at night. If it’s a 100% secure backpack you seek, we’re not going to stop you.

If you’re looking for a secure travel pack, the Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP35 offers some great features for exactly that. From the eXomesh® slash-proof material to the secure zippers and RFID secure pockets, there is some great thinking that went into this pack along with some solid materials.

You know what they say—“It’s not how you feel, it’s how you look.” Or something like that...

Video Guide Part 4: Aesthetic

Finding the Best Travel Backpack Style For You

At the end of the day, the look and feel of a travel backpack should be right for you and your tastes. There are many things to consider as far as aesthetics go we’ll pull in here for consideration. Stylish “urban travel” backpacks became a lot more popular within the last couple of years, and that’s the look we prefer. Gone are the days of international travel with a big blaze-orange hiking backpack. Those certainly have a utility, but that utility is in the wilderness. Here are a couple of overall style points for your consideration:

Minimalist Travel Backpacks

When you’re in a new country, think a bit about how you want to be perceived. If you’re heading to a more crowded or dicey area, nothing screams tourist like having a large, colorful backpack while looking up at tall buildings or a landmark in awe. It’s easier to keep a low profile and blend in a little if you’re not carrying around a monstrosity of a bag that acts as an advertisement for thieves and wrongdoers looking to target travelers for their own gain. It’s an added bonus if you can roll into a meeting wearing one of these things. As one-bag travel has become increasingly popular in recent years, we’re seeing many solid urban packs coming out that are built specifically with one-bag travel in mind.

• Minaal Carry-On 3.0

Tacticool Backpacks

There are a ton of great, high-quality bags out there that are made to military spec. There’s some really great utility to things like MOLLE for customizing your pack and including other accessories on your bag, and the stronger materials make for highly durable bags. Keep in mind that some folks may perceive you as being in the military if your bag has too much digi camo going on. It’s one thing if the pack is all black & subdued, but another if it’s camo and filled with patches. If this is your look, go for it, but this type of pack might also bring about some “unwanted attention” in certain parts of the world.

• Mission Workshop Radian

Outdoor & Hiking Backpacks

Think sportier packs with lots of pockets, brighter colors, and louder material. For a long time, outdoor backpacks were the only option for long-term one-bag travelers. They tend to be bulky and are built to carry big, heavy loads over long distances. This typically means lots of straps and a tall pack that will peek up over your head. Great for an extended camping excursion, not so great for a trip through the airport or a newly-discovered city square. They also tend to scream “TOURIST.” No one casually walks around with a giant hiking backpack.

• Gregory Zulu 40

Backpacker Backpacks

If it’s not already obvious, the “Backpacker Backpack” is designed specifically for backpacking around the world. Typically from manufacturers that also make outdoor and hiking backpacks, this is the go-to style for anyone on a gap year looking to tick off as many countries in Southeast Asia as possible. And because of that, they’re some of the most popular bags on the market today. Sure, you’ll still look like a tourist—albeit not as much as you would wearing a hiking backpack—but that’s fine because that’s exactly what you’re doing.

• Gregory Detour 40

Heritage Backpacks

These bags are engineered with a classic look in mind. Most will be some variation of the one-compartment style with leather straps, subdued colors, and some type of canvas-y material. These packs look great but can sometimes lack functionality and comfort. Although there are a few bespoke style travel bags (we like Vinta and Rivendell Mountain Works), most will fall into the daypack category.

• Red Oxx C-ruck Carry-on Rucksack

Having said all of this, aesthetic is subjective, and beauty remains in the eye of the beholder. This is why we conduct weekly polls over on our Instagram to get our communities’ take on the look of bags. Follow us on Instagram to cast your votes! You can find all the results of the polls on our individual review pages too, so you can see how well a bag you’re looking for has performed.

The humble backpack: It’ll get you through anything and everything...

There Really is No “Best Travel Backpack”

Although, there is a best travel backpack for you. All this boils down to your preferences.

When we first started creating this guide, we admittedly thought there would be one best bag for travel, but the deeper we dug, the more we realized it depends on your needs as an individual traveler. Sure, there are generally guiding principles to follow, and a bag made out of cardboard objectively won’t last, but there are too many quality backpacks out there to pick just one. If you’re on a short trip, a lighter, less durable pack will suit you well. If you’re headed to Southeast Asia during the monsoon season, you may want some heavy-duty weatherproofing.

We wish you the best of luck moving forward with your selection. Still want more? Be sure to check out our other guides and travel gear reviews too!

Our team at Pack Hacker developed the “best travel backpack” guide in partnership with our friends (and bag experts) at Carryology . We’re constantly updating this guide as new backpacks are released, and the travel landscape changes.

Author: Tom Wahlin

Tom has lived out of a 40L backpack for 2 years of travel, helping him learn what to pack and what to leave behind. His top achievements include designing for Apple and eating large quantities of ramen (ongoing).

13 Best Travel Backpacks of 2024, Tested by Experts

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

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

Don't overlook the humble backpack. A well-organized one can make all the difference when traveling. Whether you're looking for a handy personal item, an all-in-one alternative to a carry-on suitcase or a helpful companion for backpacking and camping, you can't beat the hands-free mobility. Plus, you won't need to worry about rolling your luggage or hauling a large duffel or weekender up a flight of stairs, across a sandy beach or on bustling cobblestone streets.

Our top picks:

Best Overall Travel Backpack

Cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack.

Best Value Travel Backpack

Coofay travel backpack.

Most Versatile Travel Backpack

Peak design travel backpack 45l.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Away F.A.R Convertible Backpack 45L

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

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

Asenlin 40L Travel Backpack

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

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

Osprey Porter 46L Travel Pack

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

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

TUMI Alpha Bravo Search Backpack

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

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

Thule Aion Travel Backpack

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

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

Samsonite Silhouette 17 Backpack

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

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

Osprey Daylite Plus Daypack

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

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

Herschel Kaslo Backpack Tech

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

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

patagonia Patagonia Black Hole Pack - 25 L

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

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

Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Backpack

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

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

How we test travel backpacks

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

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

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

Product Reviews

The 6 Best Water Flossers

The 13 Best Glycolic Acid Products

The Best Small Space Heaters

The 6 Best Custom Shampoos

The Best Mini Chainsaws

The Best Space Heaters for Large Rooms

The Best Self-Cleaning Litter Boxes

The 9 Best Heating Pads

GE Profile Opal 2.0 Ultra Nugget Ice Maker Review

The Best Plus-Size Jeans

35 Best Gifts for 5-Year-Old Girls

The Best Low-Carb Meal Delivery Services

Protect Your Trip »

The 3 best travel backpacks for men (also good for work).

Explore the top hands-free travel bag options for every type of journey.

The Best Travel Backpacks for Men

Courtesy of Peak Design

The Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is the top backpack choice for men.

Whether you're into rugged adventures in the wilderness or getting lost in bustling cities, a backpack may be the most essential piece of travel gear there is. If you choose your pack right, it doesn't need to be something you only use for your vacation: Some of the best options out there are ideal for both leisure and business travelers, and they're so stylish and professional that you can easily take them with you to work. No matter what kind of traveler you are, this trio of the best backpack options – compiled with the help of travel experts and consumer reviews – has got you covered.

Read on to discover the top travel backpacks for men from U.S. News.

The Top 3 Travel Backpacks for Men

• Best Overall: Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L
• Jump to features and traveler insights ↓

Best Overall, Budget Pick: Inateck 40L 17-Inch Carry On Travel Backpack

Best small: zomake ultra lightweight packable backpack 25l.

For more information on how to choose a backpack for travel – and how to pack it – check out the FAQ section at the bottom of this page.

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

Best Overall Travel Backpack: Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

Dimensions: 13 x 22 x 9.5 inches | Weight: 4.5 pounds

What sets it apart: If you're looking for the ultimate in convenience while traveling, Peak Design's 45-liter Travel Backpack is a serious winner. The bag's two main compartments can be accessed from the front, back and sides, so there's no need to stress about accessing those socks or shirts you packed in the deepest part of the bag. It's the kind of bag where everything has its place: There are mesh pockets inside the main compartments, two hidden external pockets for valuables like your passport, and an easy-to-access top pocket on the outside for anything you need to get quickly, from keys to boarding passes. A padded sleeve inside also helps to keep your laptop or tablet safe. There are also straps to attach equipment like a tripod to the outside of the bag.

The Travel Backpack isn't just for weekend trips – if you're not a compulsive overpacker, it's feasible to use this as your main piece of luggage for a weeklong trip or more. The bag can be both expanded and contracted beyond this size, in case you do some shopping along the way or want to use it as a daypack. In its non-expanded form, this carry-on backpack is also within the size limits of many international airlines and some domestic ones. It's only a half-inch too deep for some airlines like United and Delta, so if the bag isn't jam-packed, you may still be able to get it on board – although this is very much at your own risk.

With an industrial-strength nylon-canvas shell that's waterproof, this backpack is also a safe bet for outdoorsy travelers who may be exposed to the elements. You can choose between two colors: classic black, or the muted-green sage option. Travelers looking to save have the option to buy pre-owned backpacks directly from Peak Design's website for substantially reduced prices (although stock and prices for these secondhand items vary).

Travelers appreciate: Owners of this bag praise it for its massive capacity, with several saying it is deceptively small for the amount of clothes, shoes and toiletries the bag can fit.

Price: $299.99 or less Shop now: Peak Design | Best Buy

Dimensions: 21.65 x 13.4 x 7.87 inches | Weight: 3.52 pounds

What sets it apart: This sleek black backpack from German company Inateck checks a lot of boxes. It's both professional and stylish, with plenty of capacity for a weekend trip or longer, and with a price tag under $60. With a rectangular shape and a main compartment that can be zipped open, this 40-liter bag can be packed like a suitcase. That compartment also has mesh pockets with zips so that you can squirrel away smaller items without losing them in the bag's spacious interior.

A smaller zippered compartment that sits next to the wearer's back offers a safe place to stash a 17-inch laptop and a 13-inch tablet, as needed. Security-conscious travelers, take note: Both the laptop compartment and main compartment feature dual zippers that can be locked (although you'll need to provide the lock).

There are two smaller pockets on the front of the bag for easy access to essential items while traveling, and a semi-hidden pocket on the back (which would sit alongside your body) as a safe place for passports and other valuables. If you're not using the bag's full capacity, there are also compression straps to make the pack a little more compact. The company also includes a waterproof cover in case you're traveling through rainy weather.

Given its size, this Inateck pack should be accepted as cabin baggage on a fairly wide range of airlines both domestic and international. Of course, be sure to double-check your airline's baggage rules, as a limited number of airlines draw the line at 21 or 21.5 inches in height, such as Aeroméxico, Air Canada and Canadian carrier Westjet.

Travelers appreciate: Buyers of this bag rave about how much it can fit and its hidden pockets. Many note its lightweight construction makes it comfortable to carry, and that it works well for business travelers.

Price: $58.99 or less Shop now: Inateck | Amazon

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks Newsletter

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Sign up to receive the latest updates from U.S News & World Report and our trusted partners and sponsors. By clicking submit, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy .

Dimensions: 16 x 10.6 x 7.9 inches | Weight: 0.64 pounds

For a small but mighty bag that's ideal for day trips up to overnight or weekend trips, look no further than this uber-functional option from Chinese company Zomake. Sold in a wide selection of colors from neutral black or gray to light blue or bright orange, this lightweight pack is made with water-resistant nylon for anyone embarking on outdoor activities.

The backpack offers three zippered compartments: The main chamber should comfortably store bulkier items like everyday clothes or a light jacket, as well as a small to midsized laptop up to around 15 inches.. Meanwhile, two front pockets offer easy access to essentials like snacks, important documents, a cell phone, or whatever else you may need to access quickly or repeatedly. There are two mesh pockets on the side for water bottles or other necessities.

For flyers, this backpack could count as your personal item, leaving you free to bring another main piece of carry-on luggage if your airline ticket allows this. Alternatively, the bag can be folded up into a tiny pouch measuring 5.5 by 6.7 inches – so if you're on a bigger trip, you can pack it in your other luggage and grab it out for day-to-day use while traveling.

If you're in need of something bigger or smaller, Zomake has a range of other bags with similar designs, mostly around the $20 mark.

Travelers appreciate: Wearers of this bag like the wide and comfortable straps, along with the amount of items that fit in the bag, and the way it folds and packs easily

Price: $20.99 or less Shop now: Amazon

Frequently Asked Questions

There are many details to consider when it comes to choosing the perfect travel backpack. Whether you want it big or small, stylish or functional, or equipped to protect laptops and other important items, one of the most important features to look for is the bag's organizational layout.

Rudy Maxa, host of the TV series "Rudy Maxa's World" and a convert to travel backpacks, likes options with lots of nooks and crannies to hold everything from earphones to magazines to travel documents. Wendy Perrin, travel expert and founder of travel planning site WendyPerrin.com, agrees, saying she's a fan of compartments when it comes to her travel backpack and likes the ability to get to her items quickly.

Tom Wahlin, travel gear expert and founder of Pack Hacker, says he prefers a backpack that combines spacious sections with smart organization. He recommends using packing cubes to organize items in the backpack's main compartment.

Weight should be a consideration as well. While you may need something more durable for long outdoor adventures or round-the-world trips, a lightweight travel bag can be easier and more comfortable on your back for daytrips, sightseeing or day-to-day travels. Wahlin errs on the side of going lighter, noting a backpack can be both lightweight and durable. (However, if a heavier bag has the appropriate supports, such as chest or hip straps, the bag's weight may be less of an issue.)

Wahlin also suggests choosing a bag with durable zippers. "We typically look for Japanese YKK zippers," he says. "They're tried and tested and are on most of the best bags out there."

There's no one-size-fits-all answer to this question – the perfectly sized backpack might depend on whether you're a heavy packer, whether you need it for multiday trips or quick flights, and various other factors. However, there are still some general guidelines to consider. Take note: Backpacks are usually measured by their volume in liters, even in the United States.

If you only need a smaller backpack – for example, for daylong excursions or to carry on the plane while most of your stuff goes in a separate suitcase – a 20-liter (5.3-gallon) backpack should suffice. If you're using a backpack as your primary baggage, you'll want to choose something a little larger. Bags in the 25- to 30-liter range are usually considered good for shorter trips, from an overnight stay or weekend away up to five nights (at least if you pack wisely). For longer trips where your backpack is your main luggage, you may need a pack with a volume of up to 40 or 45 liters.

But, pay attention: If your travel plans involve flying, make sure that you're bringing a backpack that fits within the carry-on limits of every airline you'll be taking. This is particularly important if you're flying with budget airlines, as they tend to have more restrictive rules on baggage size (and often enforce those rules rather strictly). Backpacks with a volume of 35 liters or less should be accepted on most airlines, and you may be able to take a backpack of up to 45 liters on airlines with a more generous allowance, so check with your carrier before you leave.

Think about two things when preparing your backpack for travel: what to pack and how to pack it. If you're bringing a backpack in addition to other luggage such as a checked suitcase , try to put only the necessities in the backpack. For a long flight, for example, these items could include important travel documents like passports and boarding passes; a few basic toiletries such as your toothbrush, toothpaste and deodorant; a laptop or tablet for work or entertainment (plus headphones); some extra clothing (especially if you're going someplace with a different climate); and snacks and a bottle of water or something to drink.

If you're flying, remember to comply with the Transportation Security Administration's rules for what's allowed in your carry-on : Containers of liquids and the like can't exceed 3.4 ounces each and must fit in a quart-sized bag, so you can't bring drinks through airport security, although an empty water bottle is allowed.

When you're packing your bag, keep the items you'll need more often in the most accessible places. So, consider putting your passport , headphones and lip balm somewhere close, such as the exterior pocket – and definitely not at the bottom of the main compartment underneath all your other possessions.

Once you've put those necessities in easy-to-reach places, you can pack the rest of your belongings and travel accessories . Think about weight distribution here: Ideally, you'll want to put the heaviest items (for example, laptops) close to your body, so your backpack won't weigh so heavily on your shoulders and will be more comfortable. Pay extra attention when packing delicate or breakable items, like sunglasses or electronics. It's best to put these in the exterior pockets of your pack so they can't be crushed by heavy items in the larger main pockets. Protective cases are also a wise purchase for items like glasses. Of course, if you're carrying a laptop or tablet and your backpack has dedicated pockets or sleeves for these items, use them.

Read: Things You Should Always Pack in Your Carry-on Bag

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Tim Forster is a U.S. News & World Report contributor. As someone who mostly travels with carry-on luggage, he's an expert when it comes to backpacks. Forster used his travel experience and research expertise to write this article.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Travel Toiletry Bags
• The Top Fanny Packs
• The Top Travel Neck Pillows
• The Top Sleeping Bags for Backpacking and Camping
• The Top Carry-on Luggage Pieces

Tags: Travel , Travel Gear

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

All-inclusive family resorts in mexico.

Sharael Kolberg Sept. 20, 2024

The Best Pearl Harbor Tours

Amanda Norcross Sept. 19, 2024

Top All-Inclusive Cancun Family Resorts

Amanda Norcross Sept. 18, 2024

The Best Stonehenge Tours

Kim Foley MacKinnon and Ann Henson Sept. 18, 2024

Best Grand Canyon Helicopter Tours

Holly Johnson and Ann Henson Sept. 17, 2024

The Best Eiffel Tower Tours

Kristy Alpert Sept. 17, 2024

Fun Things to Do in Ohio

Gwen Pratesi and Heather Rader Sept. 17, 2024

The Top River Cruise Lines

Nicola Wood and Brittany Chrusciel Sept. 17, 2024

The 27 Most Haunted Hotels in America

Alissa Grisler Sept. 16, 2024

Top Indoor Water Park Resorts

Holly Johnson and Amanda Norcross Sept. 16, 2024

Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

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

Switchback Travel ( Brian McCurdy )

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

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

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

Our Team's Top Travel Backpack Picks

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

Best Overall Travel Backpack

1. cotopaxi allpa 35l ($200).

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

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

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

2. peak design travel backpack ($300).

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

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

Excellent Carrying Comfort for Gear-Intensive Trips

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

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

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

Best Travel Pack for Staying Organized

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

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

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

Best Budget Travel Backpack

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

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

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

Best High-Capacity Travel Pack for Long Trips

6. osprey farpoint 70 ($230).

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

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

Best of the Rest

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

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

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

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

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

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

9. Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L ($350)

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

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

10. Yeti Crossroads 35L Backpack ($250)

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

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

11. Matador GlobeRider45 ($350)

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

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

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

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

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

13. Thule Aion Travel Pack ($200)

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

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

14. Pacsafe EXP45 ($290)

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

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

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

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

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

16. Nomatic Travel Bag 40L ($290)

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

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

17. Mystery Ranch Mission Rover 45 ($249)

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

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

Travel Backpack Comparison Table

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

About Our Testing Process

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

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

Travel Backpack Buying Advice

Size and capacity.

• Carry-on Size Restrictions

Organization: Pockets and Main Compartment Access

Carrying comfort, grab handles and alternate carry methods.

• Other Features

Construction and Durability

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

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

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

Travel Backpack Dimensions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Other Travel Pack Features

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read More From Switchback Travel

Best Duffel Bags of 2024

Best Women’s Travel Pants of 2024

Camping Gear Reviews

Best Massage Guns of 2024

Best Hikes in El Chaltén, Argentina

Best Hiking Shoes of 2024

Best Water Bottles for Hiking of 2024

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

Best Camping Blankets of 2024

Mobile Menu

Megamenu - desktop hamburger menu.

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

Add adventure to your inbox

• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Service

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

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

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

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

One smart way to create stress-free travel is by using a travel backpack . It's what the travel experts recommend, and it's also what your Aunt who travels for work recommends (she has more airline miles than anyone in the family combined, you know). Traveling light often means going carry-on only, but traveling the leanest way possible usually involves just a travel backpack, also known as a carry-on backpack.

Most Versatile Travel Backpack

Matador seg45 travel pack.

Best Lightweight Travel Backpack

Patagonia black hole pack 32l.

Most Comfortable Travel Backpack

Cotopaxi allpa 35 l travel pack.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read more: Best Packable Down Jackets

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

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

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

Read more: Best Men's Clothing Brands

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

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

Read more: Waterproof Hiking Gear

Nanuk N-PVD 30L Travel Backpack

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

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

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

Read more: Cool Tech Gadgets

Peak Design Travel Backpack 30L

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

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

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

COR Surf Carry-On Travel Backpack Bundle

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

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

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

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

Nomatic 40L Convertible Travel Backpack/Duffel

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

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

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

CamelBak A.T.P. 26 Backpack

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

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

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

Matein Travel Backpack 40L

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

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

Yeti Crossroads 35L Backpack

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

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

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

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

The North Face Base Camp Duffel - Medium

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

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

Read more: Best Dopp Kits

Away F.A.R Convertible Backpack 45L

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

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

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

Osprey Sojourn Porter 46 Travel Pack

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

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

Read more: Best Hiking Boots

Why Trust Us

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

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

Read more: How We Test Products

What to Consider When Shopping for a Travel Backpack

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

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

TSA Carry-On Approved

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

Outer Materia ls

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

Packing Organization

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

How We Selected the Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

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

5 Fun Things to Do the Next Time You're in Bermuda

5 Awesome Things to Do in Boston

The 2024 Men’s Health Travel Awards

5 Awesome Adventures to Have in Savannah Right Now

5 Awesome Adventures to Have in Phoenix Right Now

The 7 Best Vacations For Your Body

12 Top Luggage Brands You Can Find on Amazon

The Perfect Luggage for Avoiding Airport Chaos

34 Cool Travel Gadgets That Are Worth Trying Now

7 Travel Hair Dryers, Vetted by Grooming Editors

No One Was Prepared for the Diarrhea Plane

7 Rules of On-The-Road Fitness

19 Best Travel Backpacks for Every Type of Trip

All products and listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Whether you're hopping on a bike, trekking across rugged terrain, sightseeing, shopping, or jetting off to a business meeting, the best travel backpacks give you the freedom to explore hands-free. With so many options to choose from, we've rounded up 19 of the best bags to throw over your shoulder, from chic carry-ons to super durable options, all of which prove there really is a backpack for every occasion. Ahead, discover our editors' and contributors' recommendations for the best weather-resistant carry-on bags, ultralight hiking backpacks, and sleek business-friendly options to bring on your next adventure.

This article is part of Condé Nast Traveler’ s second annual Luggage Week , for which dozens of suitcases, backpacks, and weekender bags were road-tested by our editors.

How we tested

To help us recommend the absolute best luggage to our readers, more than a dozen Condé Nast Traveler editors and contributors spent months (and in some cases, years) road-testing the newest and best-selling bags from top travel brands. These bags accompanied us near and far on planes, trains, buses, and cruises, from local staycations and Hamptons getaways to the Paris Olympics and Marlon Brando’s private island in French Polynesia . We packed these bags to the brim, lifted them into overhead bins, rolled them down cobblestone streets, and inspected every bump and scuff they endured. We considered each bag's weight, capacity, functionality, price point, and how well it held up after several trips. We also identified smart design features that make a bag stand out from its competitors, like having weight indicators, separate shoe compartments, or ample pockets. After traveling with each bag, we carefully reviewed them, keeping the aforementioned criteria in mind to determine which ones are worth the cost and a spot in our Luggage Week lineup.

Our top picks:

Best for weekend trips: Quince Revive Nylon backpack Best for long vacations: Roam The Continental backpack Best for business travel: Nex Explorer backpack Best for everyday use: Lo & Sons The Rowledge backpack Best splurge option: Carl Friedrik 72-Hour backpack

MZ Wallace Metro Backpack Deluxe

Weight: 1.3 lb. Dimensions: 16.5" x 12.2" x 6.9"

MZ Wallace’s products are distinct due to the brand’s signature super-soft, quilted material. While the Metro Backpack Deluxe is small enough to serve as a personal item on a plane , its overall polished appearance makes it appropriate for the office or work trips. Against the competition, “it’s much more lightweight and stylish,” says commerce editor Meaghan Kenny . “When empty, it's practically weightless.” Inside, the main compartment fits a few changes of clothes, a 15-inch laptop, a water bottle, and toiletries. It’s been Kenny’s go-to backpack all summer long, accompanying her on weekend trips to the Hamptons and the Jersey Shore, and for an overnight stay visiting family. Between car and train rides, there hasn’t been any wear or tear shown on the plush material—a testament to the quality and craftsmanship.

Pros: Comes with a removable pouch, luggage sleeve, multiple interior pockets, laptop sleeve, and double water bottle pockets; adjustable straps; sleek look Cons: It’s a bit pricey

Vecave Carry-On backpack

Weight: 2.2 lb. Capacity: 40L Dimensions: 16.92" x 11.81" x 7.87"

“At the price point it’s a steal,” says commerce writer Paris Wilson . “It’s the same size as a personal item but has the space and organization of a carry-on .” It’s outfitted with a laptop compartment, a wet bag for liquid toiletries, a shoe compartment (enough for one pair), an anti-theft pocket, a trolley sleeve, and an easily accessible charging port. Though—not necessarily a negative aspect—travelers should know it doesn’t come with a charging bank ; you’ll have to supply your own. It’s perfect for college students who don’t want to pack too much for a weekend back at home, frequent gym goers who need more space for extra clothes, and families traveling with young children who want to assert their independence and carry their own bag.

Pros: The backpack’s design maximizes space as much as possible Cons: It's bulky and you can feel the shoes rattling around a bit

Nex Explorer backpack

Weight: 2.83 lb. Capacity: 23.75L Dimensions: 16.7" x 12.4" x 7"

Traveler contributor and professional photographer Karthika Gupta loves this trendy leather backpack, which she’s taken on both assignments and personal trips. Nex. is a new luggage brand with many products, but this travel backpack stands out as a highlight. The Explorer features a variety of interior pockets for all your essentials while still maintaining its sleek outer shape. It has dual zippered compartments, a key clasp, two expandable accessory pouches (for bottles or chargers), and a logo sleeve that can conceal a small tracking device or AirTag. The exterior zippered pocket has protective padding and is spacious enough to fit a 15-inch laptop. However, to Gupta, the hidden back pocket secured with a magnetic button-clasp is one of the best features, as it’s deep enough to securely store valuables like cash or wallets. “I regularly travel internationally with my teens, who are as forgetful as they are opinionated, so this hidden pocket is a godsend for quickly accessing passports,” she says. Thick, comfortable shoulder straps, a padded handle, and a sleek trolley sleeve complete this design-centric backpack, making it perfect for both travel and everyday use.

Pros : Soft and flexible leather that doesn’t scuff even after extended use, available in three gender-neutral colors Cons : The numerous pockets may seem overwhelming at first

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack

Weight: 2.15 lb. Capacity: 35L Dimensions: 22" x 12" x 10"

“This is one of the most unique backpacks I’ve ever had,” says travel bookings editor Jamie Spain . The backpack features a zipper design that allows it to open flat like a suitcase and has storage compartments that have a place for everything on your packing list. The three handles make it easy to carry, while the shoulder straps work to distribute the bag's weight evenly, so it doesn’t cause any aches or pains on longer treks. For outdoorsy travelers, it can fit about a week’s worth of clothes if you don’t have many accessories in tow. Spain found it had enough space for a few outfits, an extra pair of shoes, a laptop, and toiletries on short weekend trips across the East Coast.

Pros: Variety of interior pockets, flat-lay design Cons: Larger than a traditional personal item, so it might have to be checked

Peak Design Travel backpack

Weight: 4.5 lb. Capacity: 30–45L Dimensions: 22" x 13" x 9.5"

Peak design caters to tech lovers who are constantly traveling with gear, and has been working to make the experience tailored to each traveler. Velcro dividers come with this Travel backpack, so that you can create your own compartments depending on what—and how much—you’re packing. Associate articles director Megan Spurrell found this helpful for weekend trips where clothing and camera gear took up most of her packing list. “I packed a DSLR camera, extra lens, and batteries on just a single row, and you can fit several 'rows' if you have the dividers handy,” says Spurrell. “In terms of clothes, it works nicely for a short three- to four-day trip (but that’s if your dopp kit is the size of mine, which is equivalent to a portable drone).” The strong, resilient shell is made from 100 percent recycled nylon. Peak Design also offers a lifetime warranty if any issues were to arise. Though the backpack itself is designed as a hollow, customizable shell, it does include thoughtful hooks and straps on the outside that make it easy to latch on a camera, or slide the bag onto your suitcase handle.

Pros: You can build out the backpack to your specifications with dividers and snap or clip-on accessories Cons: If you don’t purchase the dividers, there aren’t a ton of pockets or other built-in organizers

Thule Subterra 2 backpack

Weight: 2.1 lb. Capacity: 27L Dimensions: 18.9" x 13.4" x 8.7"

Tested by research director Alexandra Sanidad on a trip to San Francisco and two trips to Upstate New York , this backpack offers cushioned comfort and substantial storage compared to others on the market. “I really appreciated the padded interior to carry both my laptop and tablet,” says Sanidad. “There’s such intentional storage spaces with discreet pockets for important things like my passport. Plus, there are two large side pockets that can stash my water bottle .” There are also zippers along the side to expand the bag if you find you need more space. Sanidad notes it can fit a few days' worth of clothes, but might be a bit heavy to lug around. Luckily, the padded mesh back panel helps to keep you comfortable, while the sternum strap stabilizes the load.

Pros: Many zippered compartments and pockets, including a zipper that allows you to access your laptop from the side without having to dig everything out Cons: Some of the handles could be longer to make the bag easier to grab

Patagonia Refugio Daypack

Weight: 1.9 lb. Capacity: 26L Dimensions: 18" x 12" x 6.5"

Made from water-repellent recycled polyester fabric, the Refugio Daypack can withstand everything from sharp corners to the occasional drips. “It’s best suited for outdoorsy pursuits,” says senior commerce editor Madison Flager . “It’s great for personal travel, especially trips when I have a single hike or day trip factored in and want a backpack that I can still bring on the plane and store my laptop securely in.” The removable tech caddy works as a mobile workstation where travelers can use the zippered pockets to keep chargers and other tech accessories in close proximity. While the main compartment can hold most of the bulkier items, the front pocket has a vertically oriented zipper that makes it easy to get the necessities out.

Pros: Color scheme, comfort, dual water bottle pockets Cons: Could use a few more interior pockets within the main compartments

Away The Outdoor Backpack

Weight: 1.74 lb. Capacity: 26L Dimensions: 19" x 12.6" x 7.7"

“My ideal backpack has tons of interior pockets hidden neatly behind a sleek, simple exterior,” says associate transportation and travel news editor Hannah Towey . “ This bag has a pocket for everything.” With two water bottle side pockets that fit up to 32-ounce bottles; a separate front compartment with slip pockets for easy access to small essentials like keys and your passport; two 15-inch laptop compartments (one exterior and one interior); an extra, hidden zipper compartment; and trolley straps to secure it on your suitcase—it’s easy to see why it was Towey’s first choice on her trips to the Paris Olympics , Massachusetts, and Connecticut . Made from 100 percent water- and abrasion-resistant Dual Action fabric from Away’s Outdoor Collection, it’s designed to protect all your gear from the elements (and travel) while being easy to wipe down when needed.

Pros: Made from responsibly sourced, recycled materials Cons: Needs more interior zipper pockets and colorways to choose from

Carl Friedrik 72-Hour backpack

Weight: 3.8 lb. Capacity: 25L Dimensions: 18.1" x 11.8" x 7.1"

Carl Friedrik is known for its sturdy yet functional luggage and bags. It comes as no surprise that the brand’s backpacks are fashioned more like a suitcase than your standard knapsack. It features a front panel that opens up like a top to a trunk, so you have enough space to organize your travel accessories . There are many slim pockets for things like pens, notebooks, and a laptop, giving it the feel of a big commuter backpack. For associate editor Matt Ortile , the bag is best suited for overnight hotel stays, but he believes it “will deliver on its 72-hour promise for light packers.”

Pros: Spacious interior that minimizes the need for numerous bags Cons: Heavy on its own

Arlo Skye The Backpack

Weight: 3 lb. Capacity: 25L Dimensions: 18" x 12" x 7.5"

Elevated, sophisticated, and comfortable are just a few of the words that associate social media manager Emily Adler used to describe this bag after traveling with it to Upstate New York, the Hamptons, and Washington, DC .  Inside you’ll find a laptop sleeve big enough for a 15-inch laptop; four smaller pockets for pens, lip balm , headphones , and chargers; and an exterior front pocket for easy access to your most important documents like a passport or wallet. “Personally, I’ve been using it as a carry-on bag alongside a suitcase for trips,” says Adler. “Otherwise, on its own, it would definitely work well for an overnight trip.” With two plush straps, it's easy and comfortable to carry, but can also slide onto the handles of a carry-on thanks to the trolley sleeve on the back.

Pros: Sleek design while being practical, functional, and carrying a lot Cons: Not spacious enough for international trips

Calpak Luka Laptop Backpack

Weight: 1.8 lb. Capacity: 22L Dimensions: 16" x 12" x 7"

Calpak's Luka collection is made of scratch-resistant material, so you can rest assured that this backpack will hold up for years. “I love this backpack's material because of how durable it is for travel. I’ve spilled coffee, food, and makeup on this bag and it's so easy to clean with a disinfectant wipe,” says Kenny . It's her go-to backpack because of its many pockets, roomy compartments, and ultra-soft material. Inside, there's a large zippered compartment, a small mesh pocket, and three compartments for keeping items like socks, beauty products, or tech essentials separate. “One of my favorite features is the shoe compartment on the bottom of the bag that fits a pair of slippers or sandals,” says Kenny. The Luka backpack can hold up to 22 liters of essentials, but it still feels so lightweight.

Pros:  Laptop compartment, trolley sleeve, water bottle pocket, soft adjustable straps Cons: Very narrow luggage trolley sleeve

Quince Revive Nylon backpack

Weight: 1.72 lb. Capacity: 14L Dimensions: 15.8" x 11.8" x 4.8"

Made from 15 plastic bottles, the sleek recycled nylon on the Quince backpack is smooth to the touch, water-repellent, and lightweight. The nylon material is a selling point for the commerce director at Architectural Digest , Rachel Fletcher . “I love the black nylon because it’s basically invincible when it comes to stains—something I’m very prone to," she says. Though compact, it can still fit quite a bit—Fletcher has used it for commutes to the office as well as a weekend to Connecticut . “It fits an East Coast summer weekend’s worth of clothing pretty comfortably,” she says. "It's best to bring on an airplane as your personal item, but if you’re a light traveler, it would definitely fit the bill for a quick trip."

Pros:  Thoughtful laptop sleeve, water-repellent material, accessible price point Cons: A little bulky

Monos Metro Backpack

Weight: 3 lb. Capacity: 18L Dimensions: 16.5" x 11.5" x 6"

This design-forward vegan leather bag is just the thing for travelers looking for a more elevated backpack. According to Flager , “it’s a comfortable bag to wear, and fits a lot—I’ve used it as an overnight bag. I do think it’s a great backpack, especially for commuters or for work trips where you want the practicality of a backpack while also looking polished." Whether you're headed on a weekend trip, carrying necessities on your daily commute, or using it as a carry-on bag, the Monos Metro backpack is a smart choice. The inner laptop compartment fits a 15" laptop, and there's a built-in trolley sleeve, top carry handle, and adjustable shoulder straps. The bag also comes with a Metro Kit, a modular pouch that snaps securely onto the front of the backpack, so you can keep essentials like a phone, earbuds, and hand sanitizer nearby.

Pros:  Multiple pockets, trolley sleeve, comes with a removable pouch Cons: Not very lightweight and can feel bulky

Herschel Kaslo Daypack Tech

Capacity: 20L Dimensions: 16.75" x 11" x 5.75"

Although labeled as a tech bag, the simple and sleek design makes it versatile enough to wear just about anywhere. There are two main compartments that give you plenty of room to pack clothes, toiletries, a laptop, an iPad, and large over-the-ear headphones. There are also multiple interior pockets that keep small essentials secure. Kenny was able to fit two days' worth of clothing inside and says it's a great personal item for long-haul flights . “It’s so easy to carry, thanks to its buckle that connects the two straps which helps better distribute the weight and keep the backpack secure,” she says.

Pros:  Luggage sleeve, made from recycled materials, features a water bottle pocket Cons: Earbuds pocket is only compatible with Apple products or others that are similarly shaped

Dagne Dover Dakota Backpack

Weight: 1.10 lb. Capacity: 8L Dimensions: 13" x 9.5 x 5"

Former Traveler editor Alex Erdekian has traveled with the Dagne Dover backpack to Mexico, Italy , France, New Hampshire , and Boston to name a few. There are several pockets inside and it expands enough to fit a weekend’s worth of clothing. It’s extremely light when unpacked and the foamy exterior straps don’t dig into your shoulders and evenly distribute the weight of the backpack. It's made from neoprene and Performance Air Mesh which was a selling point for Erdekian. "The look of this backpack is a major part of why I use it so much. Something about the neoprene foam look feels really modern and fresh. It also looks so simple and free of distractions, whilst being tricked out with all these hidden bells and whistles on the inside,” she says.

Pros:  Spacious, comfortable, chic design Cons: There are almost too many pockets inside, the neoprene can get a little scuffed

Lo & Sons The Rowledge

Weight: 3.2 lb. Capacity: 21L Dimensions: 16.5" x 11.5" x 6.75"

Traveler Contributor Lydia Mansel loves this sleek, convertible backpack for carrying all of her work essentials. It features a 13" laptop compartment and can easily transition into a tote, thanks to backpack straps that tuck into a back pocket. It has plenty of pockets for organization—including a hidden one at the top for slipping your passport and boarding pass into while at the airport—and a trolley sleeve. It's made of a mix of nylon and leather, and has memory foam straps for extra comfort.

Pros:  It can carry two laptops, plenty of pockets, luggage sleeve Cons: Offered in two sizes, but the smaller version is a little too small to store a day's worth of essentials

Read a full review of this backpack here .

Roam The Continental backpack

Weight: 2.4 lb. Capacity: 26L Dimensions: 17.75" x 14" x 8"

Each time Flager takes this backpack on vacation she's complimented on its aesthetic. The bag is fully customizable, so each customer can choose the colors used for the front, back, sides, and straps. The wide, deep side pockets are a highlight for Flager, who says “there’s a place for everything—I like to put my important documents, ID, phone, and AirPods in the top zippered pocket for easy access, my Kindle or a book in the largest exterior pocket, and my keys in the smallest exterior pocket. I like that there are two side pockets for a water bottle and an umbrella or other small item."

Pros:  Lightweight, many color options Cons: A water bottle sometimes slips out of the pocket

Baggallini Soho backpack

Weight: 1.4 lb. Capacity: 16L Dimensions: 15" x 11" x 6"

This has long been a go-to work bag for Wilson , “I've carried this non-stop since I got it. I just love how lightweight it is. It has a lot of storage space and a dedicated laptop sleeve," she says. It has one main compartment with a laptop sleeve and interior pockets that have hard inserts and pen holders. It's impossible to overpack with this bag which means that you don't have to worry about the weight straining your shoulders. Wilson notes that one of her favorite features of the backpack is the design: “It has a sturdy build where it stands up on its own while I organize my things. The reinforced structure makes me feel put together when I wear it.”

Pros:  Multiple pockets, can stand on its own Cons: Limited colors available

Troubadour Apex backpack

Weight: 2.2 lb. Capacity: 25L Dimensions: 18.9" x 12.6" x 5.9"

If you're looking for a sleek yet functional bag that's polished enough for the office, look no further than Troubadour's Apex backpack. Made of waterproof fabric, Kenny says this lightweight backpack is perfect for busy commuters. It fits up to a 17" laptop and has multiple pockets for small essentials like AirPods, glasses, or a wallet. This stylish backpack also features a breathable back panel and ergonomic padded shoulder straps for added comfort. “This would be a great bag for a business trip, and thanks to its trolley sleeve, it fits nicely on your carry-on," says Kenny.

Pros:  Padded laptop compartment, waterproof material, trolley sleeve Cons: Not ideal for active days outdoors due to its sophisticated look

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

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

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

The 13 Best Commuter Backpacks to Bring to the Office and Beyond

These comfortable, stylish backpacks might actually make you look forward to your commute.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Other Backpacks We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Your commute can make or break your workday, and your work bag can make or break your commute. The best commuter backpacks are spacious, comfortable, and organized to make your journey to the office and back a little easier.

Our Travel + Leisure team tested 100 backpacks in our lab, choosing our favorite commuter backpacks for their capacity, design, comfort, durability, and value, and then putting them to use in the real world over a period of six months. We fully loaded them, carried them around the lab, and drop-tested them (repeatedly). We also considered whether each bag had some degree of water-resistance and whether each was considered a smart bag (with an included USB port for charging on the go). We’ve noted this in our picks where relevant. 

Our top choices cater to every type of commuter. A dedicated laptop sleeve , lightweight design, and ample space were nonnegotiables in our selections; plenty of our picks also offer bonus features like lunch or shoe compartments, depending on your needs.

Best Overall

Solo re:define backpack.

This bag won us over with its deceptively large capacity and butter-smooth zippers. 

After four months of regular use, the backpack's zipper is beginning to fray.

We love how spacious and comfortable the Solo Re:Define backpack is. Although it doesn’t feel oversized, we found the capacity to be nearly bottomless. Even packed with daily commute necessities, there’s room to spare. It has plenty of pockets and intuitive storage options to match its large capacity — including an all-important key leash, a pocket for a portable charger , and a built-in USB port — and the smooth zippers made it easy to access items inside without a struggle. The external water bottle pouches are surprisingly roomy, too, holding up to a 32-ounce bottle during testing.

The exterior of the bag is water-resistant and made of antimicrobial material, so it’s easy to wipe down with cleaning wipes. It’s worth noting that the backpack straps are placed close together at the top of the bag, which could pose a problem for taller users, but the padded straps and even weight distribution kept it feeling lightweight and comfortable while we were on the move. We also found it to be incredibly durable during testing; even after drop tests and months of real-world use, the bag didn’t suffer a single scuff or scratch. It’s a high-quality, durable, versatile choice for work or travel, making this backpack our overall winner. 

The Details: 13 x 7 x 18 inches | 1.43 pounds | 22 liters | Recycled PET Polyester | Smart | Water-resistant

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Everlane ReNew Transit Backpack

It strikes a winning balance between stylish and durable. 

The water bottle holder wasn’t able to accommodate different sizes, and the outer magnetic flap didn’t stay put during testing.  

The ReNew Everlane Transit Backpack functions like a commuter bag but looks like a cute backpack you’d choose to wear for a fun day trip. The recycled polyester material is lightweight, and the bag is incredibly comfortable to wear. It held up well during testing, showing no tears or scuffs even after rough handling. 

The bag has an exterior side-zip laptop compartment and two easily accessible pockets on the outside, but the water bottle holder leaves something to be desired — its inflexible material means it can’t accommodate different-sized bottles. We also found one of the aesthetic features to be less than ideal during testing: the bag’s front flap gives it a relaxed, slouchy look, but its magnetic fastener may come undone when the bag is full, leaving the pocket flapping in the breeze. Still, it’s one of the most stylish options we tested and functioned beautifully as a day bag. We also like that over 90 percent of the plastic used in Everlane’s supply chain is from recycled sources — which checks an essential box when it comes to sustainable backpacks .

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

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Best With Lunch Box

Minkeeblue nichet backpack.

This bag’s removable, insulated lunchbox and dedicated lunch compartment are convenient and versatile.

The backpack can feel bulky on smaller-framed users.  

For toting lunch and snacks along on your daily commute, we recommend the Nichet with its coordinating, removable lunch box. The insulated lunch bag can hold a reusable water bottle, coffee mug, and large ice pack with ease, and it has a zippered utensil holder. For days when you’re grabbing takeout instead, the separate compartment easily doubles as a space for shoes; the backpack also comes with a shoe bag so you can carry both if needed. 

We were also impressed with the thoughtfully designed outer pocket located on the back of the bag, and we were able to access the pocket without removing the bag, making it a perfect secure spot for a transit card, cash, or credit cards. Although it’s not technically marketed as a water-resistant bag, the vegan leather exterior held up well in the rain during our travels. After four months of regular use, we also love that the exterior is easy to wipe clean, and it still looks new despite the light color. It’s worth noting that the bag’s shape makes it bulky on a smaller frame, but the straps are generously padded, and it wears comfortably otherwise. 

The Details: 13 x 5.5 x 15 inches | 1.8 pounds | Nylon and vegan leather

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Morgan Ashley Parker

Best With Shoe Compartment

Matein travel backpack.

The bag features an unusually large capacity in addition to a spacious, dedicated shoe compartment.

The laptop sleeve is on the large side, so smaller computers may slide around in the bag.  

We love the cleverly designed shoe compartment in the spacious Matein Travel Backpack. The compartment is vented and keeps shoes separate from the rest of the backpack’s contents, but it easily opens up into the main compartment of the bag. This bag is also one of the more spacious models we tested, with three large internal zipper compartments. The 40-liter capacity could prove unwieldy to pack, but the bag completely unzips like a suitcase , making it easy to organize larger items inside.

The backpack’s laptop compartment is just as roomy as the rest of the bag, which is one potential drawback; anything smaller than a 17-inch model swam around in the bag when we packed it. However, you can balance this out by packing additional items around the laptop sleeve, and the laptop compartment is nicely padded. The bag itself is incredibly lightweight and has a high-quality look and feel. Even when fully loaded, it feels comfortable and evenly distributed, and it withstood our drop tests without any scuffs or damage.

The Details: 13 x 8 x 20 inches | 2.2 pounds | 40 liters | Nylon | Smart | Water-repellant

Best Padding

Incase icon backpack.

This backpack has superior padding on the back and shoulder straps, and great laptop protection.

The bag doesn’t offer external water bottle pockets. 

Great laptop backpacks provide top-notch laptop protection and supportive padding, which is why we recommend the Incase Icon Pack. The bag has exceptionally thick padding on the back, the shoulder straps, and the laptop sleeve. It performed very well during drop tests, and we feel confident that any tech inside would be well-protected even during rough handling. All internal and external zippers are durable and smooth, and even the fabric straps connecting the backpack’s buckles are unusually soft. 

This backpack is thoughtfully designed inside, too: the main compartment is nice and deep, featuring multiple pockets and a key strap. It also has a hidden back pocket for cash, cards, and other valuables. We did find the lack of an external water bottle pocket to be a major design flaw; the bag doesn’t offer any intuitive place to stow bottles in general. But if your top priority is laptop protection and comfort, this backpack more than gets the job done. 

The Details: 13 x 9 x 19 inches | 2.7 pounds | 17 liters | Nylon

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph

Best for Biking

Ortlieb velocity ps pack 17l.

The backpack is fully waterproof and made with durable, PU-coated nylon.

There are limited pockets for organization inside.

If you bike to work, you want to make sure your things stay protected from the elements. Whether it's raining, snowing, or you get splashed by a nearby car, this bag will prevent anything inside from getting wet. We voted it as the best dry bag in our best waterproof backpacks test , so you can trust that it will live up to its name. While most dry bags don't have much structure, this one features a laptop sleeve and a small pocket inside.

It's not the most organized option on this list, but it offers enough structure to allow you to comfortably carry your things to the office. This bag is spacious and easy to pack, and the padded straps make it comfortable to wear for extended periods of time, making it ideal for those with long commutes. The bag is also lightweight, weighing just 1.6 pounds on its own. There is also an external bracket on the outside that you could use to affix a bike light or helmet (when you're not wearing it while riding, of course).

The Details:  17.7 x 11 x 5.5 inches | 1.6 pounds | 17 liters | PU-coated nylon

Best for Rainy Days

Kühl eskape 25.

This bag is highly weather-resistant, from the outer material down to the zippers.

It’s one of the tallest bags we tested and could easily overwhelm a smaller frame.

Commuting in the rain and snow is always a drag, but the right gear can make it a little less unpleasant. We love the waterproof construction and adjustable fit of the Kühl Escape 25. The exterior is made of laminated nylon to help water roll right off, and the main interior compartment has a water-resistant feel — even the zippers are water-resistant . Every strap on this bag is adjustable, including the sternum strap and hip belt, which makes it easy to get a snug and secure fit.

This is an incredibly spacious bag and fits everything you could need for a daily commute with room to spare. The main compartment unzips suitcase-style for easy packing, and the laptop compartment contains two well-padded device sleeves. The tradeoff for all that space? This bag verged on too tall for some of our smaller-framed team members, although the customizable straps helped alleviate any discomfort in the fit. Overall this is a thoughtfully designed option for wet commutes, with a less utilitarian look than some comparable backpacks. 

The Details: 9.5 x 12.5 x 20.5 inches | 25 liters | Nylon | Waterproof

Best Customizable

Roam the continental.

The customizable colorblock design makes this bag unique, and the spacious interior features ample pockets.

The laptop and tablet sleeves inside lack padding.

Some commuters swear by an understated work bag in neutral colors, but if you’re looking for something more stylish and standout, the Roam Continental Backpack is a solid choice. You can customize each section of the bag — front, back, sides, and straps — in one of four colors for a personalized colorblocking effect. Functionally, this bag is a winner, too: its outer side pockets can either zip or be left open, and the interior is spacious and full of useful pockets. After using this bag regularly for six months, we love how easy it is to find items, despite the size, thanks to the organized compartments.

Although this bag has two slip pockets for a computer and tablet, neither of them are padded. It kept tech secure for everyday use during testing, but it didn’t provide the security we would have liked for heavier jostling, so adding a sturdy laptop case is recommended. The straps are fully adjustable, and the bag fits comfortably even when fully packed, but the back panel isn’t as padded as some models. For the price, this is likely not the right choice if you’re in the market for a solid black backpack, but it’s a great option for a customized look with nice features. 

The Details: 14 x 8 x 17.75 inches | 2.4 pounds | 26 liters | Recycled materials | Water-repellent

Best Lightweight

Athleta all about backpack.

This lightweight bag has plenty of pockets for organization, and it's easy to fold flat if you need to pack it inside a larger bag.

The bag could use more padding for laptops and fragile items.

If you're lugging a lot of things with you to the office, you probably want a lightweight bag that won't weigh you down. Athleta's All About Backpack does a great job of balancing weight and sturdiness — it doesn't feel overly heavy but still has plenty of structure to keep things organized and comfortable. This backpack is spacious and allowed us to fit our entire packing list with room to spare during testing. We were impressed with the organization of this bag as well, considering it has a small front pocket, two slip pockets, a main compartment, a laptop pocket, a water bottle pocket, and a zippered mesh compartment.

We did feel that the water bottle sleeve was a little small and we wished it was on the outside of the bag rather than inside. We also think the laptop pocket could be a little more protective, but there is less padding on this bag than some of the others we tested because this is also a packable backpack that you can fold and store inside a larger bag if needed. The straps on the backpack are comfortable, and we felt like we could wear it for a long time without anything digging in. Overall, we love this bag as a lightweight backpack to take to the office or to bring with you on a trip.

The Details: 13 x 5.75 x 17.25 inches | 1.08 pounds | Polyester, recycled polyester

Most Versatile

Samsonite just right standard backpack.

This bag’s stylish design makes it a versatile option for commuting, travel, or day trips. 

Its modest size left us wanting more capacity for essentials.

For a comfortable, stylish commuter bag that’s just as functional for short trips or carrying around town, we recommend the Samsonite Just Right Standard Backpack. It’s sleek and not bulky, and the padded straps give it a lightweight, well-balanced feel. The bag’s many padded compartments can hold two laptops plus a tablet if you need to haul around multiple devices, and it has both a USB cable and space for a wireless charger. A small, hidden zip pocket in the back of the bag is ideal for valuables while commuting or traveling, and it includes a removable wristlet to easily decant your phone and wallet for quick lunch runs.

This bag survived our drop tests without a scratch, and it has a durable, high-quality feel both inside and out. Worth noting: the bag’s slim profile means that it has a smaller capacity than some bags we tested, so it’s not the right choice for filling to the brim with lunch and extra clothes. But if you’re on the hunt for a compact, stylish, and professional option for work and beyond, this is a great pick. 

The Details: 12.25 x 5.5 x 16.5 inches | 2.4 pounds | Nylon | Smart

Bee & Kin The Midi Nomad Backpack

This bag’s small size and high-quality leather exterior make it easy to take to dinner or happy hour after work.  

It’s light on internal organization, and the shoulder straps run long.  

The Bee & Kin Midi Backpack is perfect for a lighter commute load, and we love that it doesn’t scream “work bag.” Despite its small size, it can hold a surprising amount; throughout our long-term testing period, we used it regularly as a day bag and were able to fit a laptop, water bottle, notebook, headphones , and a change of clothes, with room left over. It also features a unique spot for a wireless charger and a thoughtful front pocket with space for your keys, wallet, and phone. The main compartment is light on organization, however — we would have preferred additional zippered pockets or space for smaller items like pens. 

Although this bag is not especially padded, it feels comfortable even when packed full because of its small size. The straps run long, so smaller users may find the backpack sits low even on the tightest setting. The leather exterior gives it a luxe feel, and although we wondered if it would scuff easily during use, it held up well in testing. Overall it’s a worthwhile investment for a small commute bag that can easily transition to happy hour. 

The Details: 11.6 x 5.5 x 13 inches | 2.4 pounds | Leather

Best for Students

Herschel classic backpack xl.

We love the classic and versatile style that goes with any outfit you'll wear throughout the school year.

The bag’s shoulder straps and laptop compartment would benefit from more padding.

If you’re commuting to school — or just prefer the look of a traditional school-style backpack — the Herschel Classic Backpack XL is a high-quality choice. It’s made from 100 percent recycled water bottles, which give it a durable feel, and Herschel offers a lifetime warranty. This bag has a huge capacity and a classic design. The spacious main compartment lacks additional pockets but does contain a large laptop sleeve. It’s important to note that the laptop sleeve is not padded, so we’d recommend zipping your laptop into a padded case before stowing it in this bag. The bag also has both exterior water bottle pockets and space inside for bottles, a much-appreciated feature when toting beverages.

The bag itself is lightweight and distributes weight well, but because of its traditional design, it has less padding in the shoulder straps than some models, which some of us found uncomfortable during testing. This classic bag is a solid option for carrying around campus.  

The Details: 12.5 x 6.5 x 17.5 inches | 1.3 pounds | 26 liters | Recycled fabric

Best Color Options

Calpak kaya laptop backpack.

This bag’s elegant design and fun color choices make it a standout.

The material has a stiff, firm feel — even after a four-month break-in period.

The Calpak Kaya Laptop Backpack earned a spot on our list with its combination of distinctive colors and thoughtful features. Its unusual square shape, slim design, and range of both stylish and classic colors (there's more than two dozen to choose from!) make it fun to carry to happy hour, while its plethora of interior pockets and compartments make it useful for your commute. The bag can hold both a laptop and a tablet , and the laptop sleeve, although not padded, has a snap closure to keep things secure. The interior is divided into front and back sections, which keeps items organized but does limit how much the bag can hold — a key drawback in our testing. We especially love the external front pocket for easy access to items like ID and keys. 

The lightweight bag is relatively comfortable to carry and doesn’t feel weighed down when it’s fully packed, but it does lack the padding of some more utilitarian models. On the flip side, the bag’s stiff material helps protect the items inside. It held up well during our tests and showed no signs of scuffing when we dropped it off a table — a rare combination of aesthetics and durability.  

The Details: 11.5 x 4.5 x 15.5 inches | 3 pounds | Faux leather

Other Commuter Backpacks We Liked

Here are some other backpacks that may work for some commuters, though they didn't perform as well as the above items during our tests.

Kroser Laptop Backpack with Charger : This affordable backpack earned high scores for its comfort, capacity, and organization, which are in line with many of the pricier models we tested. However, the internal construction didn’t feel durable enough for daily commute wear and tear.

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Troubadour Orbis 2 Pocket Backpack : We loved the durability, comfort, and sleek design of this backpack, and it’s a great sustainable choice. But we found the bag’s capacity to be somewhat limited compared to its size, and it lacked some of the smart features (USB port, portable charger, etc.) we liked in other models. 

Monos Metro Backpack : This bag’s detachable front pouch and padded handles earned it high marks during testing. However, the vegan leather material has a stiff feel to it, and we found the lack of an exterior water bottle pocket to be a drawback.

Travel + Leisure/Joy Kim

Arlo Skye The Backpack : We loved how comfortable this backpack was to wear, how easy it was to lift into overhead bins, and how well it performed during our drop tests. But the straps were very difficult to adjust, and many of the pockets were too small to actually be functional.

The Travel + Leisure team tested 100 backpacks from top brands in our New York City lab, and for this test, we handpicked our favorites for commuting. We tested each bag for capacity, design, comfort, and durability, and only after completing these tests did we check each item’s price and determine its value. We simulated daily commute conditions by loading up each bag with laptops, chargers, water bottles, extra clothing items, notebooks, and more. We wore each backpack around the lab to see how lightweight and comfortable they felt, pushed them off of counters to test durability during drops, and evaluated each bag’s design. 

All bags also went out for real-world testing for six months to gather additional insights and evaluate their long-term durability. The winners chosen here all performed exceptionally well in both lab and real world tests. We will continue updating this article as we test even more backpacks that would work well for commuting.

Tips for Buying a Commuter Backpack

Prioritize organization and easy-access features.

The beauty of a commuter backpack is that it can hold an entire workday’s worth of necessities — but it defeats the purpose if you’re left digging through a cavernous bag on the subway to find your AirPods. Look for backpacks with multiple zippered compartments and pockets to keep your items organized. Ideally, you’ll also want easily accessible outer pockets so you can grab necessities like your phone and your work ID without setting your bag down in a dirty transit station.

Also consider your daily needs as you’re choosing features: do you always pack your own lunch? Do you commute in sneakers and change shoes when you arrive? Are you notorious for letting your phone die and having to charge on the go? Prioritize lunch compartments, shoe bags, or USB ports depending on your commuting habits.

Think about versatility

Odds are, your commute often involves a stopover between work and home — and your commuter backpack is going to come along with you. If you frequently hit the gym or head to happy hour after work, look for a bag that can pull double (or triple) duty. A bag with a shoe compartment and space for a change of clothes can be a godsend for gym rats, and a stylish bag with a smaller footprint might be the right choice if your workday often ends with dinner and drinks. Many commuter backpacks also double as carry-on bags or weekenders for travel, which can be a nice way to get more bang for your buck, so consider multiple functions when choosing the perfect travel backpack for your needs .

Look for added protection

Commuting can be rough on your tech and personal items, so prioritize a commuter backpack that protects your valuables from weather, bumpy train rides, and even theft . Many commuter bags offer some degree of waterproofing or at least water-resistance to help your laptop and notebooks survive soggy commutes. The ideal commuter bag is also thoughtfully designed to keep your laptop, tablet, and phone protected, with padded compartments and secure straps. And if you’re concerned about your credit cards, cash, or tech being lost or stolen while you’re en route, many commuter backpacks feature hidden pockets that sit flush against your back or secure anti-theft zippers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should i look for in a commuter backpack.

Whether you're commuting via electric scooter , e-bike, or by train, an ideal commuter bag has plenty of compartments for easy organization, a dedicated space for tech of all types; water- and/or stain-resistant exterior; and comfortable, padded straps. Items should be easy to access while you’re on the go, and backpacks should be lightweight and durable to withstand daily use. If you’re in the market for a leveled-up model, look for convenient bonus features like USB ports, lunch or shoe compartments, and luggage straps for weekend trips. You’ll be carrying this bag nearly every day, so look for a size and style you actually want to wear daily, and prioritize wipeable materials both inside and out. 

How big should a commuter backpack be?

Most standard commuter backpacks have a capacity of between 10 and 30 liters. The sweet spot for most people tends to be between 20 and 30 liters; this size offers enough space to pack laptops and essentials but isn’t bulky or difficult to carry. As you’re choosing your commuter backpack, consider how you’ll primarily be using the bag: if you’re mainly using it for daily commutes, err on the smaller side for compact comfort and manageability. If you’d like your bag to double as a weekender or carry-on , look for a larger capacity to hold clothes and toiletries as well, or consider a rolling option .

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Mandy Harris is a contributing writer at T+L and has vetted hundreds of lifestyle products over the last decade. For this story, she analyzed in-house testing insights, manufacturer details, and her 15 years of experience as a daily commuter to determine the best commuter backpacks for any situation. 

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

Related Articles

The best backpacks for work that will fit your laptop and make your commute so much easier

When you buy through our links, Business Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more

Around a year ago, it dawned on me that my work bag of choice might be to blame for my embarrasisingly poor posture. Carrying the weight of all my belongings on one shoulder day in and day out had taken quite a toll — and I even started to experience neck and back pain as a result. I eventually switched to a backpack — which distributes that weight more evenly across my body — and never looked back. Since then, I've been on a quest to find the best backpacks for work.

There's no doubt that a backpack is the most efficient and comfortable to tote your essentials to and from the office. But not all backpacks are suitable for work. Obviously, at a bare minimum, it has to be big enough to fit a laptop, lunch, wallet, phone — but slender enough that you aren't going to take someone out when you weave in and out of people on a busy street or subway car. Ideally, there should also be a pocket for smaller items like pens, and chargers.

On my search for backpacks that check all of these boxes, I tested a handful of popular styles. My favorites fused comfort, style, durability, and functionality — an impressive feat.

Best overall: Apex Troubadour 3.0

Standout features: It couldn't be easier to keep all your work essentials organized in the Apex 3.0, thanks to the dedicated tech compartment, lockable main compartment for valuables, and thoughtfully designed pockets for pens, power banks, and water bottles.

Laptop compartment: Cushioned tech section to protect your laptop or tablet, fits up to a 17" laptop

Troubadour really has thought of everything in constructing this durable, functional backpack. Firstly, it's constructed with lightweight, waterproof fabric spun from recycled plastic bottles — and even the zippers are waterproof, meaning I never have to worry about my gear getting wet on a rainy commute.

Not only that, but everything is designed with easy access in mind: for example, the shoulder strap pocket allows me to quickly grab my phone or keys, and the dual elasticated 1-litre bottle holders make it simple to hydrate in a cinch.

Most importantly, though, what I appreciate about the Apex 3.0 is that I have peace of mind my devices and other valuables are protected. The tech section is engineered with protective cushioning to safeguard my laptop from damage, and the lockable main compartment (where I stash my wallet) even features an AirTag pocket just in case I misplace my bag.

The reason the Apex 3.0 tops this list, though, is because, in addition to functionality, it also promises comfort — which is crucial when I'm toting it to and from the office every single day. The ergonomic design includes sculpted and padded shoulder straps and a breathable back panel. Did I mention that it looks sleek as heck, and maintains its shape no matter how little or how much I'm storing inside it?

By the way — Troubadour is so confident in the quality of this backpack that they offer a five-year guarantee, meaning they'll repair anything that goes wrong within that time frame.

Most spacious: BÉIS The Backpack

Standout features: With the largest capacity on this list, it can fit everything you need and more while still feeling comfortable on your shoulders.

Laptop compartment: Padded laptop compartment fits up to a 15" laptop

I bought this backpack about a year ago before a trip to Grenada, and despite lugging it to and from the library, work, and on flights numerous times since then, it's held up remarkably well. It has one of the larger capacities of the backpacks on this list, and to that end, I'm constantly amazed by just how much I can stuff in here — an entire outfit change, a meal, and so much more. This backpack comes in eight different colors, but since I travel a lot (and conveniently it comes with a luggage sleeve) I bought the black so it's less likely to show stains. That said, the sturdy canvas material is super easy to spot clean.

As for the storage features, the BÉIS backpack has two side slip pockets for water bottles and other knick-knacks I need at the ready, an interior and exterior zip pocket, and a padded tech pocket. I love that it has a two-way full-zip around closure, and the padded straps have been much appreciated while I'm hustling around on a stressful work day.

Honestly, my only issue with this backpack is that sometimes the adjustable straps don't stay at the adjusted length and slide around a bit. But I'm willing to put up with this small annoyance since this backpack is so comfortable, durable, and versatile.

Best stylish: Dagne Dover Dakota Large Backpack

Standout features: In addition to a roomy main compartment, this waterproof backpack also offers uniquely handy features like a separate zippered shoe bag, a dedicated tablet compartment, and a hidden pocket for valuables.

Laptop compartment: Exterior laptop sleeve zips shut and fits most 16" laptops

After I kept spotting this trendy backpack all over Instagram, I decided to see whether the influencer-favorite piece lived up to the hype. Now I totally get why Dagne Dover — a female-founded brand — has amassed a cult following.

The Dakota backpack comes in ten different eye-catching colorways, from muted taupe and heathered gray to rich olive green and neutral blush. Beyond the style factor, though, this backpack also boasts a waterproof neoprene exterior and is loaded with storage options, from the dedicated zip-closure laptop pocket and tablet sleeve, a hidden pocket for valuables, and — wait for it — a separate shoe bag for those necessary after-work footwear changes (IYKYK). I love that the main compartment is spacious enough to fit a whole outfit, too, in case I'm headed to the gym or happy hour drinks after I leave the office.

Also worth noting: The adjustable, padded straps never dig into my shoulders, and the luggage-handle sleeve makes this backpack versatile enough for travel, too.

Read our full review of the Dagne Dover Dakota Backpack .

Best splurge: Harber London Leather Backpack

Standout features: A premium full-grain leather construction, soft microfiber lining, built-in separate tablet pocket, and removable magnetic pouches (to store chargers and other essentials) make this backpack just as practical as it is stylish.

Laptop compartment: Padded laptop compartment fits most 13-16" laptops

This is the Rolls-Royce of backpacks. It's handmade by expert craftsmen in Spain with buttery premium full-grain leather that only looks better with age and even features aviation-grade aluminum buckles. But there's more than meets the eye here: There's a laptop compartment that's padded for maximum protection, a built-in tablet pocket that fits up to an iPad Pro 12.9" with the keyboard attached, a water bottle pocket, and even a special stylus holder. The luggage sleeve allows for easy attachment to a suitcase handle while traveling, and the sternum strap ensures that the weight is evenly distributed while I'm wearing it.

The Harber London backpack comes in three timeless shades: black, tan, and deep brown — and it also comes with two different insert options depending on your needs. The Tech Dopp insert features dedicated slots for cords, and is perfect for storing a Bluetooth or USB mouse, chargers, AirPods, notepads, and pens. The Nomad insert, meanwhile, can store an iPad mini or Kindle, smartphone, business cards and credit cards, notepads, and pens.

All in all, this backpack may come with a heftier investment, but it's built to last — and Harber London offers a one-year warranty. I can't count how many compliments I've received when toting this backpack on the train.

Best budget: YALUNDISI Vintage Backpack

Standout features: The exterior USB charger and interior charging cable on this backpack ensure you'll never lose access to your devices — while the many pockets make it easy to find your water bottle, wallet, compact umbrella, pens, key fob, and other essentials.

Laptop compartment: Separate laptop sleeve fits up to a 15.6-inch laptop

I'll admit I was a bit skeptical about how well-made a backpack could possibly be with a price tag of $35.99. But the YALUNDSI Vintage Backpack has garnered thousands of five-star reviews, and now I see why. It's lightweight, looks and feels surprisingly high quality, and the padded shoulder straps are pretty comfortable.

Thanks to the many different pockets and storage compartments, I've also never had trouble finding any of my belongings in this backpack. That includes two side pockets for water bottles and umbrellas; a front zipper pocket for my wallet, keys, and other items I don't feel like digging for (with an added flap for security); a roomy main compartment for my lunch, planner, and light jacket; and the dedicated laptop compartment.

One distinguishing feature of this backpack is the built-in USB charging port and cable. It's important to clarify that the backpack itself doesn't actually power your devices — but the port does allow you to store the charging brick inside while still making the phone easily accessible in the side pocket.

The only con? The exterior nylon material is not fully waterproof. It can stand up to a light drizzle, but I wouldn't reach for this backpack when it's downpouring — especially if I'm bringing my laptop or tablet with me.

Best minimalist: Parker Clay Miramar Backpack

Standout features: Despite the slender profile, this high-quality sustainable leather backpack fits all the basic work essentials — and features an exterior zip pocket for any items you need easy access to.

Laptop compartment: Fits up to a 13" laptop or tablet.

I felt like Mary Poppins the first time I sported this sleek leather backpack. While it may look like it has a slim profile, it surprisingly fits all my must-haves: including my 13" Macbook Air, wallet, sweater, sunnies, charger, and snacks. The Miramar doesn't have tons of pockets, but there's beauty in its minimalism. Whereas most backpacks can look (and feel) bulky, I was able to navigate city crowds with ease while sporting the Miramar.

Parker Clay is a certified B-Corp , and I've been a fan for a while not only because of its products' beautiful craftsmanship but also because of the positive impact the brand is committed to making. Parker Clay bags are made with sustainably sourced leather in Ethiopia, where they hire at-risk women, pay them fair living wages, and provide them with benefits (including paid maternity leave), and healthy subsidized meals – along with skills training, career advancement, and financial literacy opportunities.

The Miramar features adjustable straps for a flawless fit — and thanks to the top handle, it can double as a tote bag, too. And from an aesthetic standpoint, I love the way the natural brass zippers complement the warm rust-brown leather. Keep in mind, though, that since this backpack is unlined, you'll probably want to store your laptop or tablet in a padded case.

• Main content

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

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

We offer easy, convenient returns with at least one free return option: no shipping charges. All returns must comply with our returns policy.

• Go to your orders and start the return
• Select your preferred free shipping option
• Drop off and leave!

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.

Image Unavailable

• To view this video download Flash Player

LOVEVOOK Backpack Purse for Women, Convertible Small Backpack Tote for Woman, Mini College Daypack for Work, Daily, Travel, 2pcs set

Lozenge 14inch

Purchase options and add-ons

• 【Multi-Carry Options】Considering your convenience, you can carry it as a tote bag, backpack purse or handbag.
• 【Cute & Fashion Backpack】LOVEVOOK small backpack purse has a lovely and fashionable appearance,Perfect for women, whether young or mature.
• 【Multiple Pockets & Large Capacity】This Teacher backpack has 3 compartments, pockets. Separate laptop compartment fits up to 14inch laptop. The elastic cup holder on both sides can carry larger cups.
• 【Additional Clutch Bag】Mini backpack comes with a small purse. There are two compartments inside. The large compartment can store small items such as cosmetic keys. The compartment with zipper can hold some change or cards.
• 【Dimension】12.4*8.3*3.5inch, Just right size daypack, which can be used to meet your daily needs, is highly recommended for travel, College and work.
• 【Material】This work tote bag is made of high quality water-repellent , promising its long-term use in different situations.

Similar items that ship from close to you

Product information

Warranty & support, from the brand.

MAKE OUR LIFE EASIER & COLORFUL

Convertible mini Backpack Tote

LOVEVOOK Purses for women

Laptop Backpack for Women

Travel Backpack for Women

LOVEVOOK: Fashion in Motion. Our purse backpacks, launched in 2014, are the heartbeat of youthful vibrance and trendy sophistication for the spirited fashionista.

Infuse your daily adventure with LOVEVOOK’s dynamic style. These backpacks are a celebration of youthful energy, designed for the vivacious and stylish on the move.

Videos for this product

Click to play video

Favorite on-the-go bag for myself and my kiddos!

Ashlynne In Motherhood

Why this is my fav bag!!

Alyssa Schutt

Looking for specific info?

Customer reviews.

• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 5 star 76% 12% 5% 3% 3% 76%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 4 star 76% 12% 5% 3% 3% 12%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 3 star 76% 12% 5% 3% 3% 5%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 2 star 76% 12% 5% 3% 3% 3%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 1 star 76% 12% 5% 3% 3% 3%

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.

Customers say

Customers like the roomy, style, and pockets of the backpack. They mention it's the perfect size for a day bag, has more compartments than they need, and is well-designed for professionals or students. Customers also like the carryability, comfort, and value for money. However, some customers differ on the durability.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers like the backpack for its roominess. They mention it has more compartments than they need, can hold two mini umbrellas, a wifi box, and a Hello Kitty light-up wand. Some say it's perfect for their belongings, and has a small cosmetic bag that fits right into the main section.

"...It's very spacious with several compartments and fits all my belongings but is also lightweight and doesn't appear as incredibly large or anything..." Read more

" Perfect size , perfect colors, perfect amount of pockets. So much easier to tote my things and I feel stylish." Read more

"Loved this so much-the durability, cuteness, storage and straps were the best!..." Read more

"...There are more compartments than I need and that is fine by me. In the first 2 shots, I am showing you the bag: back and front...." Read more

Customers like the style of the backpack. They mention it's pretty, has a beautiful combination of brown and beige, and is well-designed for a professional or student.

"...It was a terrific price for everything get and how cute it is. It comes with the backpack itself, a clutch purse and a reusable cloth shopping bag...." Read more

"Perfect size, perfect colors , perfect amount of pockets. So much easier to tote my things and I feel stylish." Read more

"Loved this so much-the durability, cuteness , storage and straps were the best!..." Read more

"Finding a versatile, yet stylish and lightweight bag is not easy...." Read more

Customers like the pockets of the backpack. They mention the side pocket will hold a water bottle or small umbrella. Customers also say the anti-theft pocket along the back of the bag is useful.

"Perfect size, perfect colors, perfect amount of pockets . So much easier to tote my things and I feel stylish." Read more

"...It is filled with different items. There are 2 side pockets , expandible when putting in a bottle of any size that actually fits and, the item stays..." Read more

"...One of the best features is its abundance of pockets , (usable pockets) each serving a practical purpose, making storage accessible and organized...." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the quality of the backpack. They mention it's a nice backpack for everyday use, has many compartments, and looks cute. Some say it'll be a reliable companion for their daily outings and like the bonus cosmetic bag and built-in USB charger.

"...Overall, it's been a reliable companion for my daily outings ." Read more

"Used this backpack over 4 days at Disney. It was perfect ! Lots of pockets...." Read more

"Used for school, I'm a teacher and this bad is nice and roomy.I like that it's top open and doesn't sag." Read more

"...Really stylish Great for work, travel or casual wear. I like the bonus cosmetic bag and built in usb charger...." Read more

Customers like the carryability of the backpack. They mention it has straps at the top so it can be carried like a tote, is small enough not to be a pain to carry, and is not bulky or heavy. They also say it's stylish and great for work, travel, or casual wear. When fully packed, it sits on the shoulders without much weight and is evenly distributed.

"...with several compartments and fits all my belongings but is also lightweight and doesn't appear as incredibly large or anything like that...." Read more

"...So much easier to tote my things and I feel stylish." Read more

"...When fully packed, it sits on the shoulders without much weight and is evenly distributed on the back, last shot to show its size...." Read more

"...Its always PERFECT for traveling !! 10 out of 10 highly recommend" Read more

Customers like the comfort of the backpack. They mention the straps are padded and super comfortable. Customers also appreciate the adjustable straps that add to the comfort. They say it fits comfortably under the seat in front of them.

"...The adjustable straps add to its comfort , and the overall quality is top-notch...." Read more

"I love the way this backpack looks, the composure of it is amazing . It doesn't droop or sag. It stands up all by itself and isn't huge...." Read more

"...I use the wristlet as a wallet for my bartending job and the book bag is super comfy . I mainly use it for work and it has room for everythingggg...." Read more

" Super cute but tight fit for my ipad pro 12.9!" Read more

Customers appreciate the backpack's value for money. They say it's a good buy for the price and the quality is okay for the money.

"...It’s very cute and well worth the money " Read more

"...The value is perfect !!" Read more

"...(And another black and white one for when this one wears out. Affordable ? Yes. Classy? Yes Functional? Yes..." Read more

Customers have mixed opinions about the durability of the backpack. Some mention it's well-made, while others say the thin liner falls apart and the black plastic adjuster broke apart.

"...It's also incredibly durable ; I even went out with it in the rain and nothing I had on the inside got wet at all, which I was astounded by and, of..." Read more

"...had it 3 months and the inside zipper is broken and the liner is tearing away on the inside . Kinda dissapiinted" Read more

"Loved this so much-the durability , cuteness, storage and straps were the best!..." Read more

"...The stitching is very well made the fabric as well which is water repellent...." Read more

Reviews with images

Best 👛 I have ever had!

• 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..

Top reviews from other countries

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

Your cart is empty

Have an account?

Log in to check out faster.

FREE SHIPPING ON ORDERS OVER $150

THE BÉIS APP IS HERE DOWNLOAD

Best Sellers

Accessories

All Luggage

Luggage Sets

SHOP BY COLOR

#E8DACA | Beige

#000000 | Black

#313655 | Blue

#E0C0B8 | Pink

#DDDAE7 | Purple

#A06856 | Brown

#CCC6C6 | Grey

#696C56 | Green

#B31C38 | Red

#F1D976 | Yellow

SHOP BY MATERIAL

Crossbodies

#F2EFED | White

SHOP BY SIZE

Personal Item

All New Arrivals

The Commuter Collection

The Utility Collection

The Kids Collection

Glossy Atlas Pink

Luggage Covers

All Accessories

Makeup & Toiletry Bags

Small Bags & Crossbodies

Travel Accessories

Packing Cubes

Office & Work Accessories

Shop All BÉIS Products

The large check-in roller in all black, the large check-in roller in black, the large check-in roller in glossy black, the carry-on roller in navy, the large check-in roller in lavender, the medium check-in roller in atlas pink, the large check-in roller in atlas pink, the sport carryall in black, the carry-on roller in lavender, the medium check-in roller in lavender, the mini weekender in black, the weekender in black, the in flight cosmetic set, the compression packing cubes 6 pc in atlas pink, the dopp kit in black, the expandable backpack in black, the weekender in maple, the large check-in roller in navy, the mini weekender in maple, the dopp kit in beige, the work tote in black croc, we think you're in, update your location.

Continue shopping our full catalog. Duties apply.

Shop BÉIS CA for lower shipping costs.

Shop BÉIS UK for lower shipping costs.

Shop BÉIS EU for lower shipping costs.

'ZDNET Recommends': What exactly does it mean?

ZDNET's recommendations are based on many hours of testing, research, and comparison shopping. We gather data from the best available sources, including vendor and retailer listings as well as other relevant and independent reviews sites. And we pore over customer reviews to find out what matters to real people who already own and use the products and services we’re assessing.

When you click through from our site to a retailer and buy a product or service, we may earn affiliate commissions. This helps support our work, but does not affect what we cover or how, and it does not affect the price you pay. Neither ZDNET nor the author are compensated for these independent reviews. Indeed, we follow strict guidelines that ensure our editorial content is never influenced by advertisers.

ZDNET's editorial team writes on behalf of you, our reader. Our goal is to deliver the most accurate information and the most knowledgeable advice possible in order to help you make smarter buying decisions on tech gear and a wide array of products and services. Our editors thoroughly review and fact-check every article to ensure that our content meets the highest standards. If we have made an error or published misleading information, we will correct or clarify the article. If you see inaccuracies in our content, please report the mistake via this form .

One of the best tablets for work travel I've tested is not made by Microsoft or Lenovo

ZDNET's key takeaways

• The Asus ProArt PZ13 is an artistically aligned laptop and is on sale right now at Best Buy for $1,100.
• It's ready to help pro-level artists with its vibrant OLED touchscreen, long battery life, and supportive apps.
• The device is held back by a limited array of ports and a substandard keyboard. 

A couple of months ago, I tested out Microsoft's Surface Pro 11 , a laptop that doubles as a tablet. It has Qualcomm's next-gen chipset and a lot of great features that made me enjoy the machine. I highly recommend it to business professionals who frequently travel. It seems Asus must've seen the Surface Pro and thought to itself, "We can do better." The result of this inspiration is the Asus ProArt PZ13 .

Also: I tested Lenovo's Windows laptop that doubles as an Android tablet, and it has so much potential

I mentioned the Surface Pro 11 because the two share many similarities, although the ProArt model is better suited for artists and creative professionals.

Upon lifting the laptop out of its box for the first time, you'll be greeted with a 13.3-inch, 3K (2880 x 1800 pixels) OLED touchscreen. Its resolution isn't as high as Microsoft's laptop, although the ProArt PZ13 more than makes up for this with image-enhancing apps.

It has Dolby Vision, support for the entire DCI-P3 color gamut, and VESA DisplayHDR True Black for ultra-dark shadows. Everything works together to ensure a stunning visual experience, except for the 60Hz refresh rate. That's a fine speed, but I would've liked to have 120Hz. At 60Hz, motion and animations on this laptop can look a little blurry.

Also: One of the most versatile laptops I've tested also has one of the best displays

The device has a really neat feature called Creator Hub. It's a dashboard app that lets you adjust the PZ13 on the fly. The most impressive of its many tools is Color Control, which lets you change the on-screen color gamut at any time. For example, the DCI-P3 option tweaks the colors so they're best suited for movies while Display P3 is recommended for artists as it more accurately displays hues. You can even adjust the color temperature. 

Creator Hub gives creative professionals a great amount of flexibility. Although I'm not an artist myself, I certainly appreciate having the ability to fine-tune my experience instantly.

Asus' machine is no slouch either, as inside the ProArt PZ13 is a Snapdragon X Plus chipset. I was able to maintain about 60 tabs open without experiencing any major slowdown. I had videos playing and Twitch streams running, and I could still check out my email without any issue.

Sadly, I couldn't get a specific benchmark number on the SoC (system on a chip). None of the major benchmarking tests have been updated for the Snapdragon X, but hopefully, that day will come soon.

Also: This lightweight laptop has one of the best displays I've seen, and it's not a MacBook Air

Like other Qualcomm-based laptops, the ProArt PZ13 has a ridiculously long battery life, and for once, the marketing materials were correct. This device ran for over 21 hours straight when on the Best Power Efficiency mode. I left it on overnight and was shocked to see it was still active in the morning. On Best Performance mode, the model manages to outperform most Intel-based laptops, as it lasted for about 14.5 hours on a single charge.

These battery times are perfect if you ever need to take the ProArt PZ13 on the road. There's no need to worry about the laptop dying on you at the worst moment.

The tablet is 0.35 inches thick and weighs a little under two pounds. Asus throws in a muted-green protective cover with the purchase. The cover adds some bulk to the device, although not by much. It'll fit snugly inside a bag.

As much as I like Asus' new computer, I didn't like the ProArt PZ13's keyboard. Asus states it has a 1.4mm key travel distance. On paper, that should ensure a good typing experience, but I felt the keyboard was flimsy. Pressing a key bends the accessory a bit.

Also: I tested Lenovo's Windows laptop that doubles as an Android tablet, and it has so much potential .

Furthermore, there are very few ports. You get three in total: two USB-C inputs and an SD card reader. Granted, the device is somewhat thin, so perhaps Asus couldn't find room for any more ports. Still, it could've at least included a headphone jack.

My last critique is admittedly a nitpick. I would've appreciated a free stylus in the overall package. Microsoft's 11th-gen Surface Pro had one when I got it, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. So unless you already have a pen, you'll have to buy one for the PZ13, which isn't a big issue since the laptop is fairly cheap.

ZDNET's buying advice

Prices for the Asus ProArt PZ13 start at $1,100 on Best Buy , which is a steal. There is a more powerful version available on Asus' website --  for $1,649 , you can purchase a ProArt PZ13 sporting Qualcomm's Hexagon NPU, delivering extra power.

Other than that, they're the same device. Get the Hexagon version only if you are expecting heavy workloads.

How we test laptops

We use a combination of methods to test laptops here at ZDNET. First, we acquire data from benchmarking software to analyze a system's metrics under the hood, and compare those to advertised numbers. Then, we spend an extended amount of time with the laptop (usually a week or two) using it the same way a typical consumer would, in order to analyze its portability, form factor, and how well the battery  actually  holds up, among others. For an extensive breakdown, check out our comprehensive  laptop testing methodology .

• Benchmarking:  We run a series of tests to put the computer's hardware through the wringer in order to see what it's capable of.  Cinebench  is one of the most commonly-used hardware testing suites, which tests the laptop's rendering performance on single and multiple CPU cores.  PCMark 10  is another powerful program that covers a wide variety of tasks performed in the workplace.
• Processor:  The "brain" of the laptop, and one of the most important factors that determines performance. This is tested in benchmarking software.

The display:  Brightness is measured in "nits," and color spectrums are tested in benchmarking software.

The graphics processor (GPU):  We test the GPU with a combination of benchmarking software, gaming, and media playback. 

Physical form factor:  We carry the laptop around for at least a week and note how well it commutes.

• Battery testing:  We test a unit's battery in a few ways. A handful of benchmarking programs have their own battery testing components, but we also will just let the laptop run for as long as it can under a medium load. 
• The human element:   As we mentioned earlier, metrics and system data is important, but numbers alone don't give you the full picture. This is where we weave in our personal experience with the device and tap into the practical use cases that consumers actually care about. 

Ultimately, our goal is to break down the capabilities of each and every laptop we test into digestible terms that people find useful.  

Featured reviews

One of the best samsung tablets i've tested is not a flagship (and it's on sale), this 13-inch laptop i recommend for work travel is not a macbook or a dell (and it's on sale), one of the best lightweight laptops i've tested made me forget about the macbook air.

• Bahasa Indonesia
• Slovenščina
• Science & Tech
• Russian Kitchen

A traveler's guide to Novosibirsk, the unofficial capital of Siberia

Trans-Siberian heritage

Residents of Novosibirsk love trains and are proud of the fact that their city played a significant role in the history of the grand Trans-Siberian railway, which spans the breadth of Russia. The railway is such a part of Novosibirsk identity that it is even depicted on the city’s emblem, along with the bridge that crosses the Ob river and two Siberian sables standing on their hind legs.  

In the city, there are as many as five monuments to trains, and an open-air locomotive museum is located in the vicinity of the train station Seyatel’. The museum has more than 100 steam locomotives, diesel locomotives and carriages, reflecting the history of rail transportation in Russia from pre-revolutionary times to the present day. Wondering around the stationary trains and comparing your height with the diameter of the gigantic iron wheels of the first steam locomotives is all very well, but why not climb inside the carriages and see how the nobility once traveled across Russia in pre-revolutionary times? These tours will however need to be booked in advance. The museum opens from 11:00 until 17:00 every day except Mondays. 

Novosibirsk spans both sides of the river Ob. In the early twentieth century, the border of two different timezones passed right through the city which led to a strange situation- morning on the east bank started one hour earlier than on the west bank! The two-kilometer covered metro bridge that crosses the river is considered the longest in the world. Due to the fluctuations in temperature across the year (on average +30 °C to -30 °C), during the summer the metro bridge expands, and in the winter it contracts by half a meter. To counter these effects, the bridge’s supports are equipped with special rollers that allow it to move.   

The cultural center of Siberia

The repertoire of the theatre can be viewed on its official website . The theatre season runs from September to July, and comprises mainly classical performances, like the ballet “The Nutcracker” by Tchaikovsky, Borodin’s opera “Prince Igor” and Verdi’s “La Traviata”.  

The large Siberian sea and ligers

Weekends are best spent at the Novosibirsk zoo . The zoo is known for breeding big cats, although surrounded by controversy, hosts a successful crossing of a tiger and lion, which of course would not otherwise breed in wildlife. Ligers, or exotic cubs of an African lion and Bengal tigress, feel quite comfortable in the Siberian climate and even produce offspring. The zoo is open to visitors year-round, seven days a week, and even has its own free mobile app, Zoo Nsk .

Every year at the beginning of January, the festival of snow culture takes place bringing together artists from across Russia and around the world to participate in a snow sculpting competition. The tradition started in 2000 inspired by the snow festival in Sapporo, Novosibirsk’s twin-city.

Siberian Silicon Valley

Despite the fact that Akademgorodok was built half a century ago in the middle of the uninhabited Siberian taiga, architecturally it was ahead of its time. No trees were destroyed for its construction, and houses were built right in the middle of the forest. A man walking through the woods would seemingly stumble upon these structures. At that time, no one had built anything similar in the world and ecovillages only became fashionable much later.

For residents of the Novosibirsk Akademgorodok is a different world. When you step out the bus or car, you are immediately on one of the hiking paths through the forest, between the scientific buildings and clubs. On a walk through Akademgorodok, it is possible to unexpectedly encounter art-like objects handmade by residents of the city which have been erected as monuments and some monuments fixed up by city authorities. For example, the monument to the laboratory mice, which knits a strand of DNA on to some needles, can be found in the square alongside the Institute of Cytology and Genetics. In Akademgorodok there are many cafes and restaurants, in which it is possible to rest after a long walk. Grab a coffee and go to eat at Traveler’s Coffee , or eat lunch at the grille and bar People’s or Clover .

Winters in the Akademgorodok are slightly colder than in the city, so wrap up. Spring and summer are usually wetter, so waterproof boots are recommended. In the summer the Ob sea provides respite from the heat, so do not forget your swimsuit to go for a dip.

Memento Mori

Among the exhibits of the museum is one dedicated to world funeral culture — hearses, memorial jewellery from the hair of the deceased, samples from a specific photo-genre of  "post mortem", a collection of funeral wear from the Victorian era, deathmasks, statues and monuments. There’s also an impressive collection of coffins. One of them, resembling a fish, was manufactured on a special visit to Novosibirsk by a designer coffin-maker from Africa, Eric Adjetey Anang, who specializes in the production of unusual coffins.

Surprisingly, the crematorium itself does not look at all gloomy in appearance and definitely does not look like infernal scenes from movies, or like crematoriums of other cities that gravitate towards gloomy temple aesthetics. The Novosibirsk crematorium is decorated in “cheerful” orange tones and is surrounded by a park with a children’s playground nearby. A visit to the museum then leaves you with mixed feelings. 

Novosibirsk underground

Tourists from all over the world go down into the Moscow metro to take a ride and a few selfies in the most famous underground museum. The Novosibirsk metro is also quite a museum in itself — it has 13 stations, the most beautiful of which is Gagarinskaya, Sibirskaya and Rechnoy Vokzal.

The ultramodern Gagarinskaya station is like a real cosmos underground. Its technologically themed design includes marble walls with metallic elements, dark blue backlighting and portraits of Yuri Gagarin. The Sibirskaya station looks like an underground treasure trove, decorated by Altai masters craftsmen with mosaics of precious Siberian stones. The Rechnoy Vokzal station is framed with ten glowing stained glass windows depicting the largest cities of Siberia, including Novosibirsk itself, Omsk, Barnaul and others. The platform resembles a big ship sailing on the Ob, from which ancient Siberian cities are visible through its windows.  

How to get there

The easiest way to get to Novosibirsk is by plane with Aeroflot or Novosibirsk airline S7 with one-way tickets from Moscow costing from 200-250 USD. If you decide to take from the train from Moscow, you’ll have to travel approximately a third of the Trans-Siberian Railway. That’s 3,300 kilometers over almost a three-day journey. 

Where to stay

There are many great hotels in Novosibirsk. Amongst the best include a four-star Doubletree hotel by Hilton , which is located near Lenin Square (per room from $200). After renovations and repairs, the congress-hotel Novosibirsk has improved (per room from $100) and is located across from the train station. Less expensive but of a similar standard is the four-star River Park hotel near Rechnoy Vokzal metro station, which costs $80 per night.

All rights reserved by Rossiyskaya Gazeta.

to our newsletter!

Get the week's best stories straight to your inbox

• Krasnoyarsk to Novosibirsk: A journey into Russia’s heartland
• Across Siberia on the cheap: 6 tips for travelers on a budget

This website uses cookies. Click here to find out more.