Traveling is all about freedom and exploration. With the right backpack, your journey becomes that much simpler. Whether you’re heading for a weekend getaway or a long-haul flight, having the perfect travel companion is essential.
Finding the perfect backpack can be challenging with so many styles and features. From spacious designs to lightweight options, it’s crucial to find one that fits your needs. Our list of the 20 best travel backpacks will help simplify your search.
Choosing the Right Travel Backpack
When selecting a travel backpack, consider its size, weight, and the number of compartments. A well-organized bag can make your trips more comfortable and efficient. Look for features like an inner laptop sleeve or a shoe compartment.
Also, make sure that your backpack fits under an airplane seat if that’s where you plan to store it. Typically, lightweight designs measuring about 18″ x 14″ x 8″ work best. Remember, functionality should always come alongside style for a seamless travel experience.
Compact Yet Spacious: The MZ Wallace Metro Deluxe
The MZ Wallace Metro Deluxe backpack is perfect for weekend getaways and office trips. Known for its super-soft quilted material, this bag is both stylish and functional. It fits a 15-inch laptop, clothes, and toiletries, making it a favorite for those quick getaways.
Meaghan Kenny, a commerce editor, touts its lightweight nature, saying, “When empty, it’s practically weightless.” This makes it easy to carry on train and car rides without showing any wear or tear.
Though it’s higher priced, the multiple features, including a removable pouch and water bottle pockets, justify the investment. With dimensions of 16.5″ x 12.2″ x 6.9″ and capacity of 23L, it’s a versatile choice for many.
Style Meets Function: Dagne Dover Dakota Backpack
The Dagne Dover Dakota Backpack is widely admired for its chic design. Constructed from neoprene and Performance Air Mesh, it’s perfect for short trips and daily commutes.
With numerous pockets, it expands to fit everything you need. Even though it weighs just over a pound, its innovative foam straps distribute weight evenly, ensuring comfort.
Despite the many pockets making it slightly complex, it’s a versatile and stylish option. Former editor Alex Erdekian praises its modern look, favoring it for weeklong trips thanks to its capacity to house a weekend’s worth of essentials.
Monos Metro Backpack: Sleek and Sophisticated
Vegan leather and polished, the Monos Metro is ideal for those who value both fashion and utility. With added features like a trolley sleeve and adjustable shoulder straps, it’s a solid pick for work or leisure.
It comfortably fits a 15-inch laptop along with other essentials. The Metro Kit pouch on the front keeps items like phones and earbuds handy.
With a focus on urban style, this backpack meets the needs of modern commuters while providing ample space for short trips.
Featherlight Comfort: The Away Featherlight Backpack
Weighing just 1.2 pounds, the Away Featherlight Backpack is a top selection for lightweight travel. Its water-repellent material and sleek design are ideal for urban explorers.
It offers a laptop sleeve, multiple pockets, and space for two water bottles. Associate social media manager Emily Adler endorses its ability to secure valuable items during her travels.
The trolley sleeve makes it easy to combine with other luggage, and the machine washable feature adds convenience that frequent travelers appreciate.
Durability and Design: Calpak Luka Laptop Backpack
Calpak’s Luka Laptop Backpack offers an excellent blend of style and resilience. Made of scratch-resistant material, it withstands life’s little accidents like spills and bumps.
The inclusion of a shoe compartment, laptop compartment, and trolley sleeve adds to its practicality. It holds up to 22 liters and remains lightweight.
For day trips and casual outings, this backpack provides plenty of storage without feeling bulky. Its thoughtful design suits both travelers and everyday users.
Efficient Packing with the Halfday Roamer Backpack
An ideal choice for short business trips, the Halfday Roamer Backpack is known for its clamshell design that opens flat like a suitcase.
It offers substantial packing space, fitting clothes for two to three days. The locked laptop sleeve adds an element of security.
Despite its capacity, the Roamer remains sleek and professional, making it a suitable option for both business and casual travel.
Versatile Carry: The Baggallini Soho Backpack
Lightweight yet spacious, the Baggallini Soho Backpack is a crowd favorite for day-to-day use. It stands upright, aiding in organization, a feature lauded by commerce writer Paris Wilson.
The design includes a sturdy build with various pockets for laptops and personal items. Its simplicity is perfect for those looking for a no-fuss travel solution.
Rugged and Reliable: The Yeti Ranchero Backpack
Built for adventure, the Yeti Ranchero Backpack is made from water- and abrasion-resistant material, perfect for outdoor use. It features dual zippers for quick access to essentials.
With a spacious interior, it’s used both for hiking and urban environments. Commerce producer Erik Buckingham appreciates its adaptability and ample storage.
For those seeking a backpack that can handle tough terrains and city streets alike, the Yeti Ranchero is an excellent choice.
Ultimate Flexibility: The Bagsmart Backpack
Praised as a mini suitcase, the Bagsmart Backpack offers a lay-flat design for efficient packing. It includes packing cubes and a shoe bag for organization.
Despite its compact appearance, it fits enough for a long weekend. Bookings editor Jamie Spain notes its versatility and affordability as key selling points.
Whether you’re heading to the gym or the office, this backpack offers flexibility and organization that meet a variety of needs.
Selecting the right travel backpack enhances every journey, no matter the destination. From chic city explorers to rugged adventurers, there’s a perfect fit for every traveler.
Whether you’re aiming for style, comfort, or functionality, these backpacks promise to meet your needs. Choose wisely and set out on your next adventure with confidence.
