Choosing the right backpack for travel is an important part of planning your trip. If you choose a bag that is too big, you will have extra weight to carry. If you choose a bag that is too small, you won't be able to fit all your belongings! If you choose the wrong material, your belongings will get wet when it rains.
Nowadays, there are so many backpacks out there that it can be confusing to know how to choose the right one. However, knowing what the best travel backpack is and how to choose it is actually a science!
When I first started traveling, I spent weeks choosing my first travel backpack. I tried dozens of them, spent hours researching online, and tested them in the store to see how they felt.
It was a time-consuming process. However, this research paid off because my first backpack lasted me 8 years.
In fact, I only bought a new backpack because an airline lost that one. Otherwise, that backpack would still be usable today.
There are many travel backpacks in the world — and even more places where you can buy them.
How do you choose the best backpack for travel?
Today, I will teach you how to do that.
To save you hours of research, I will tell you all the good features a good backpack should have, the best backpack brands, and where to buy them, so you can save yourself hours of time and buy one knowing it is great and will last forever.
Contents
What to Look For in a Good Travel Backpack Does Size Matter? Backpack or Suitcase? How Much Should I Spend? My Favorite Travel Backpacks Where to Buy Your Travel Backpack
What to Look For in a Good Travel Backpack
Here is a video where I explain what I look for when choosing a backpack and what I look for when choosing the best travel backpacks:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gOKg-sU0Y98&t=35s
Don't want to watch the video? No problem! Here is the summary and how to choose the best travel backpack for your trip:
The best backpacks — the ones that last the longest and stay in good condition no matter how hard you push them — have all the following features that ensure they are durable, long-lasting, and weather-resistant. Do not buy a backpack that doesn't tick all the boxes on this list:
- Water-Resistant Material Even if your bag doesn't need to be 100% waterproof (unless you are going on a long-term hike), make sure your bag is made of a semi-waterproof material so that everything doesn't get wet in a light rain (most travel backpacks come with covers you can pull over in case of heavy rain).
Also, make sure the material won't stay wet for a long time and thus get moldy. I look for thick but lightweight materials. Treated nylon fiber is really good. If you pour a glass of water on it, the inside shouldn't get wet. I don't often travel during heavy rains or monsoons, but I have been caught in small rainstorms. Since my backpack was made of good material, I never encountered wet clothes when I opened my bag.
- Lockable Zippers Make sure every compartment has two zippers so you can lock them together. Although I don't really worry about them stealing my dirty clothes from my bag at a hostel, I like to lock my bag when traveling. I'm always paranoid that someone will put something in my bag or an airport baggage handler will take my stuff.
When buying locks, make sure they are TSA-approved locks on the package. These locks have a special release valve that allows the TSA to open the lock without breaking it, so they can inspect your bag. You can buy TSA locks from large retail stores, such as Target or Walmart.
If you have extra concerns about security (for example, if you are a photographer carrying a lot of expensive equipment), you should consider buying a Pacsafe bag. These bags are specially designed with security in mind and have many features to ensure your bag is not broken into or stolen.
- Multiple Compartments A good bag should have multiple compartments. This allows you to organize your belongings into smaller sections so you can find what you need more easily. For example, my clothes are in the main section of my bag, my umbrella and slippers are on top, and my shoes are in a separate side section (so they don't dirty everything). This saves you from having to rummage through your bag. And every bag you buy should have multiple compartments, plus pay attention to special compartments that might be important to you, such as a laptop sleeve or an external water bottle pocket.
For extra organization, buy some packing cubes. They can keep your bag organized — even if there are multiple compartments.
- Padded Hip Belt Most of the weight you carry will put pressure on your hips, so you will need a padded belt that makes supporting the weight more comfortable. The belt will help provide support and distribute the load more evenly across your back, which creates less strain. The hip belt should also be adjustable so you can tighten it for extra support. Also, look for a bag that has zippered pockets on the hip belt for easy access. These pockets are good for coins, bus tickets, and other small items that require quick access.
- Padded Shoulder Straps These make carrying your load more comfortable, as the weight of your bag will also put pressure on your shoulders. The padding will put less pressure on your shoulders and also help reduce the strain on your waist. Make sure the padding is very thick and made of one piece of material, as it is less likely to fall apart or thin out.
The best way to test this is to visit a store and try the bag on. Have the staff fill the bag with gear so you can see how it feels on your shoulders when fully packed.
- Contoured/Padded Back A lumbar-contoured bag makes it more comfortable to carry because it distributes weight more evenly (the same principle applies as with contoured chairs). It provides a natural curve so you don't experience back pain. Also, this type of bag creates a small gap between your back and the bag, allowing for air circulation and keeping you slightly cool (carrying your bag can make you sweat!).
- Front-Loading A front-loading backpack is a bag that can be opened from the side and provides access to all your belongings. A top-loading bag, on the other hand, only allows you to access your belongings through an opening at the top. This makes it difficult to access your belongings (especially if they are at the bottom of your bag). Always buy a "front-loading" bag for easy access to all your gear.
Conversely, a bag that loads both from the top and the bottom will also suffice. Just make sure you don't buy a bag with only a single opening, as this makes accessing your belongings difficult.
The Best Travel Backpacks: Does Size Matter?
One of the most frequently asked questions about backpacks is size. Everyone wants to know what the perfect size is. No backpack size is better than the other. What matters is that your backpack is proportional to your body — this could mean a 40-liter or a 60-liter backpack.
If your backpack is too big or too small, the weight will not be balanced properly and can cause back pain or even knock you over. You don't want a skyscraper rising from your back, but you also don't want a bag that is obviously too small and overflowing with your belongings.
You want a backpack just big enough to carry a little extra for your trip, and no more than that. Remember that you don't need to bring everything for your trip. Aside from essentials like your passport, wallet, and phone, things you need on the road are not hard to find. I like to carry enough clothes for 7-10 days, do laundry, and then repeat. Since you can wash what you have, you don't need to carry too many things.
If a backpack holds everything you want, has a little extra room, and feels comfortable, you've found the perfect backpack. Manufacturers also offer recommended torso and waist sizes for every model they make, but the best way to know if a backpack is right is to try it on.
When at the store (and any good camping/outdoor store will do this), they should be able to fill your backpack to weigh 30 pounds (15 kilograms) so you can see how that much weight feels on your back.
The bigger your bag, the less likely you are to carry it onto the plane. Also, if you have soap and liquids in your bag, you will need to check the bag because you won't be able to carry them. Most carry-on sizes are 45 linear inches (22 x 14 x 9 inches) or 115 centimeters (56 x 36 x 23 cm) including handles and wheels; if you buy a bag in these dimensions, you can carry it on. This is approximately 40-45L (depending on the brand and shape). If you want to fly with just a carry-on, aim for a 40-45L bag.
You generally don't encounter baggage fees when checking your bag on international flights with major airlines. However, low-cost airlines charge fees for checking luggage based on weight, so the heavier your bag, the more you pay when checking it at the gate. Even when my bag is in the overhead compartment, I usually have to check it when flying with a low-cost airline.
The Endless Question: Should You Buy a Backpack or a Suitcase?
I have a confession to make: I hate suitcases for long trips. If you are traveling around the world, your luggage will be piled up and thrown onto buses in various countries. It will be used and abused, and it will be difficult to go up hills and stairs while the wheels are hitting everything. Try climbing five flights of stairs in a small hotel in Italy! It's torture!
Suitcases are great for weekend getaways or situations where you will be staying in one place for a long time. I always use a carry-on suitcase for my short trips.
However, if you are moving frequently and backpacking around the world, having a proper backpack is much better. They are just more versatile; they are easier to take up stairs and pack into tight spaces, and overall, they make life simpler. I don't have to carry them when getting on an escalator or struggle to drag them up stairs or on cobblestone streets.
Backpacks just make more sense, which is why this page is dedicated to backpacks, not suitcases.
If you have back problems and can't use a backpack, a smaller suitcase with wheels and a long handle might be a good alternative. It will still be difficult to go up and down stairs and annoying when rolling on uneven sidewalks, but there are many companies that make pretty good and lightweight travel bags.
Also, to get the best of both worlds, you can buy a hard-shell backpack with wheels. (However, since my personal preference is a backpack, we will talk about that!)
Travel Backpacks: How Much Should a Backpack Cost?
Backpack prices depend heavily on size, fabric, and brand. Most backpacks are priced between 99–300 USD. Mid-size store brands are usually around 199 USD. Store brands are cheaper than big brands like The North Face, Osprey, and Gregory.
I believe no backpack, no matter how nice, is worth more than 300 USD. These expensive backpacks are usually bulky and have more bells and whistles, special padding, and material, but they offer more than you really need as a traveler.
Also, don't limit yourself if a backpack is labeled as a “hiking” or “camping” or “travel” backpack. It's not important to buy a backpack designed to be used on the streets of New Zealand instead of the Rockies.
Hiking-specific backpacks usually look more rugged and have outdoor features like straps to attach camping and other equipment, whereas the new generation of “travel packs” usually has a sleeker look focused on organization for the modern urban digital nomad.
My Favorite Travel Backpacks: 8 Favorite Bags
Osprey Farpoint 40
- Osprey Farpoint (or Fairview for women)
- Can be carried as a lightweight travel bag, duffel bag, messenger bag, or backpack. The front panel opens, which makes it easier to use.
- Size: 38-40L
- Straps: 2 front compression straps, 2 internal compression straps, padded hip belt, sternum strap
- Features: 16-inch laptop sleeve, large zippered panel, padded handles, mesh back panel
Osprey Porter 46 Travel Bag
- Designed for both short trips and long journeys, the unisex Porter is very similar to the Farpoint (but has a bit more room) thanks to its large front panel opening. This is one of Osprey's best-selling bags and offers the option to add a daypack.
- Size: 46L
- Straps: 2 front compression straps, 2 internal compression straps, padded hip belt, sternum strap
- Features: 15-inch laptop sleeve, many pockets, lockable zippers, padded handles for carrying
Osprey Farpoint 36 Wheeled Travel Bag
- Wheels provide a unique advantage to this convertible bag. You can pull it on dusty roads or smooth sidewalks, or convert it into a backpack and carry it.
- Size: 36L
- Straps: Deployable shoulder strap and padded back panel/hip belt, sternum strap, external compression straps
- Features: Converts into wheeled luggage, zippered top pocket for toiletries, large panel opening, aluminum internal frame
NOMATIC 40L Travel Bag
- A waterproof bag designed for digital nomads. It is super useful for anyone who stands independently!
- Size: 40L
- Straps: Sternum strap, removable and padded waist straps
- Features: RFID-safe pocket, laundry bag, cable organizer, shoe compartment, converts into a duffel, waterproof water bottle pocket, top-loading
Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45 Anti-Theft Travel Backpack
- Pacsafe's bags have extra security features such as exomesh slash-guard fabric to protect against “slash-and-run” thefts. It is a good option if you are carrying expensive equipment.
- Size: 45L
- Straps: Breathable shoulder and waist straps, sternum strap, external and internal compression straps
- Features: Rear panel access to main compartment, smart zipper security, 15-inch laptop sleeve, side water bottle pockets
REI Flash 55 Pack
- This bag's back panel is breathable, and the useful water bottle pocket is placed in front of the hip belt to allow you to drink water without removing the bag. The pack's low weight and excellent hip support make for comfortable use even for long distances. Its design is great!
- Size: 53-57L
- Straps: Compression technology pulls the pack's load up and in, bringing the bag closer to your center of gravity
- Features: Removable top lid, large front pocket, hydration compatible, 3D contoured hip belt
REI Traverse Pack
- REI's Traverse pack balances the weight of the contents well and features a ventilated mesh back panel. The top lid converts into a small daypack or shoulder bag!
- Size: 60L
- Straps: Adjustable padded shoulder straps and hip belt
- Features: Large zippered front pockets, accessible water bottle pockets, hip belt pocket, hydration compatible, rain cover
Peak Designs 45L Travel Bag
- This travel bag is fully compressible down to 30L and expands up to 45L when you need more space. It has numerous pockets, including dual side pockets, top pockets, and hidden pockets. It is also made from durable 100% recycled nylon material.
- Size: 30L (expandable to 45L)
- Straps: Adjustable padded shoulder and waist straps
- Features: Front, side, and rear access, side-access water bottle pockets, external straps to attach more gear to the outside of the bag, 16-inch laptop compartment
Where Can You Buy Your Travel Backpack?
There are many camping stores. Here are the best places where you can buy a backpack:
- REI – This is my favorite outdoor store. They have great service, knowledgeable staff, wonderful events, and the best return policy. This is a place that cares.
- EMS – Another great outdoor store with a wide selection of bags, great locations, and friendly staff.
- MEC (Canada) – The REI of Canada, if you are Canadian, it is the best place to buy a backpack.
- GO Outdoors (UK) – The REI of the UK, if you reside in the UK, it is the best place to buy a backpack.
REI Backpacks I personally use an REI backpack. REI is an American company that sells a wide range of sports, outdoor, and travel equipment. I have been using my backpack since 2004, and it works, looks, and feels just like the day I bought it. These are like those commercials where they try to destroy products to prove how good they are. Well, my life is that commercial. I have put this backpack through every kind of stress. It has been crushed, thrown around, dropped, squeezed into small spaces, dragged, and kicked.
The quality of their products made me an REI customer. I buy all my travel gear there, from everyday bags to bug spray, tents, and sleeping bags. Also, I love REI’s one-year warranty and return policy. I know that if something goes wrong, I can take the equipment back—even after using it!
Buying a backpack for your trip will be a time-consuming process. You will need to try on many bags. If possible, go to the nearest outdoor store and try the bags on. You can get input and advice from the store staff; they will be able to answer any questions you might have about your backpack. They can also show you the proper fitting process step-by-step.
Alternatively, you can have a bunch of bags sent to your home, fill them with all your gear, and try them on to see which one feels right. This way, you will know exactly how the bag fits when it is full of your gear, not just store-bought padding. Return the others (so make sure to check the return policy before you buy).
However, this process doesn't have to be too painful if you follow the rules mentioned in this post. If you do that, you will find the perfect travel backpack for your trip in no time!
And this will be a backpack that will serve you for years and years!
