Whether you’re heading for a weekend city break, a backpacking adventure or a work trip abroad, a decent travel backpack is essential, especially if you want to stay on the right side of the restrictive baggage policies of some airlines.
I’m an outdoor writer and the author of Pints and Pathways, and I find the best travel backpacks blend style and practicality. They should keep your essentials organised and accessible but also be comfortable and durable enough to withstand hours of wear, while distributing the weight they carry evenly to prevent any injury. They can range in price from around £90 to £230, but look out for helpful features like lightweight, sturdy fabrics, have ergonomic straps and smart compartments or elements such as water-resistant coatings or anti-theft zips.
From minimalist carry-ons to more rugged, adventure-ready models, I’ve rounded up the top travel backpacks to suit every journey and budget and help you find the perfect companion for your next adventure.
The best travel backpacks: at a glance
How to choose the best travel backpack
The right pack needs to balance comfort, organisation, durability and practicality, especially if you’re planning longer trips or multi-destination adventures. If you want to use them as carry-on luggage, the dimensions are included below to check against different airline size allowances.
Daypacks between 20 to 30 litres are good for short trips or as carry-on suitcases, 35 to 50 litre packs are better suited for longer backpacking trips where you need extra clothing and carrying laptops or travel essentials. Some of the better designed 40 to 50 litre bags comply with cabin baggage regulations, but be aware that they can get bulky and heavy. Look for adjustable shoulder straps, padded back panels and waist or sternum belts that distribute weight evenly. Some brands such as Osprey also offer women’s bags to accommodate different body shapes.
As for organisation solutions, look for compartments, internal dividers, laptop sleeves, mesh pockets and external water bottle holders. Clamshell openings or roll-top designs allow for suitcase-style packing too, which I like when I’m packing for multi-day trips.
Durability and material are also crucial. Water-resistant fabrics, reinforced stitching and robust zippers will protect your belongings. Spending more money will give you something significantly more secure and head-wearing than high-street options. Lockable zips or pass-through straps are important for extra security and convenience during flights.
Lastly, consider detachable daypacks, attachment points for gear and lightweight construction for long-distance travel.
