12 piece travel backpack

The 11 Best Carry-on Backpacks of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Our simulations reveal which bags you can count on

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TripSavvy / Chloe Jeong

A solid backpack is key to a successful trip. Think about it: You can use it as a carry-on, and if you pack light, it'll be the only piece of luggage you bring on a trip. It won't weigh you down as you rush to catch the inter-terminal train at the airport, and it'll look good on you as you stroll the streets of your destination. Find a good travel backpack, and it will serve you for years to come.

There’s a lot to consider when looking for a backpack to take you through all kinds of situations and environments. Waterproof, anti-theft, stylish, lightweight, wheels or no wheels—all things to keep in mind as you shop. To help you make the right choice, we tested 32 carry-on backpacks in our New York testing lab and in the real world. We tested for capacity, design, comfort, durability, and value.

Final Verdict

Product selection, how we tested, other carry-on backpacks we tested.

• What to Look For

Why Trust TripSavvy

Best overall, cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack.

• Capacity 5 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Durability 5 /5
• Comfort 5 /5

Super durable material

Very comfortable with multiple carry methods

Lighter and more rugged than previous models

Nothing yet

Does the perfect travel backpack exist? We’re not sure, but we can’t think of one that comes closer than the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L. This second version of Cotopaxi’s best-selling backpack is rugged and comfy, has excellent organization capabilities, and is the perfect size to throw in an overhead bin, toss in a vehicle, and huff around from train to hostel.

The pack uses burly TPU-coated 1000-denier polyester and lightweight 840-denier ballistic nylon paneling. It has excellent weight distribution with comfy shoulder and sternum straps and hip belts, or stow the straps and carry the pack with side handles. The inside features multiple pockets of different sizes that we found perfect for separating clean and dirty clothes, electronics, and shoes. Bonus: It comes with a rainfly to protect it from the weather.

Capacity: 35 liters | Weight: 3 pounds, 8 ounces | Dimensions: 20 x 12 x 8 inches | Materials: TPU-coated 1000-denier polyester and 840-denier ballistic nylon

TripSavvy / Jhett Thompson

Best Overall, Runner-Up

Osprey fairview 40.

Quite spacious while remaining carry-on sized

Keeps belongings secure

Good padding and weight distribution

Osprey’s women-specific Fairview 40 pack impressed our tester with its size, space, and compartments. “This bag has a lot of compartments and a lot of straps to hold everything in place,” our tester reported. Despite the bag fitting a bit large, our tester said it was still very comfortable to wear. Osprey employs its proprietary Lightwire Frame Suspension, which helps spread the weight across the back panel and from the harness to the hip belt.

Despite being a 40-liter pack, it weighs just about 3 pounds, thanks to the lightweight nylon ripstop material and frame. “It did not hurt my back, and I like how most of the weight was shifted to my lower back,” our tester mentioned. Besides the fit, we also appreciated that all straps are stowable, making it easy in case you need to check the bag on a plane (which is possible on smaller planes with this larger-capacity pack). For the men’s version of the same pack, check out the Farpoint 40 .

Capacity: 38 liters (extra-small/small size) | Weight: 3 pounds, 1 ounce | Dimensions: 19.3 x 13.8 x 8 inches | Materials: 210-denier nylon mini hex diamond ripstop and 600-denier packcloth

Best Budget

Vancropak 40l travel backpack.

• Capacity 4 /5
• Design 3 /5
• Comfort 4 /5

Great for a short-to-medium-length trip

Could double as a business travel pack

Feature packed and user friendly

Lacks tech compartment

Cloth material could get dirty easily

This 40-liter pack checks all the boxes, including excellent value. Vancropak says it fits enough for trips between three and seven days, and we’d have to agree. “It fit everything even though I packed quickly and not thoughtfully or strategically,” our tester said. “It’s perfect for a weekend trip when you want to pack extra ‘just in case’ outfits or items. It even expands to provide more room. It has extra pockets, opens like a suitcase, has many different handles, and backpack straps that can be tucked and zipped away.” Compression straps also help shrink the bag back down after being packed.

And if you weren’t convinced yet of its value, it also includes packing cubes. “Its business-casual aesthetic makes it ideal for short business trips, too,” a tester added. One nitpick? There’s no laptop sleeve. But our testers thought the other features—and comfort—more than made up for that slight issue.

Capacity: 40 liters | Weight: 3.98 pounds | Dimensions: 20 x 13.7 x 6.2 inches | Materials: Water-resistant polyester

Asenlin 40L Travel Backpack

Functional straps

Multiple ways to carry

Not too weighty

Our tester didn’t love the style

If you didn’t dig the budget pack above, behold another excellent value travel pack. Like the Vancropak, the Asenlin Travel Backpack also includes three packing cubes. Our testers found they could easily fit everything needed for a weekend trip. They also liked the internal straps for organization and the external straps for compression. “It offers three different carrying methods, which is nice,” the testers reported. “It has a lot of different pockets and storage areas. The bottle holder on the side also unzips to expand, which is a thoughtful addition.”

Our testers liked how comfortable the bag was to wear and that it wasn’t overly heavy (the brand claims it weighs less than 3 pounds). We also believe this could double as a business travel bag.

Capacity: 40 liters | Weight: 2.7 pounds | Dimensions: 18.5 x 12.5 x 9.5 inches | Materials: Water-resistant polyester Oxford cloth

Best for Business Travel

Nomatic travel bag.

• Comfort 3 /5

Fits about a week’s worth of items

Loads of internal organization

Comes with an additional laundry bag

Uncomfortable to carry at times

Some scuff marks after tossing around

While we certainly love this bag's sleek and simplistic aesthetic, there’s a lot more to it than just looks. It’s durable and water-resistant and has multiple carry options (e.g., duffel and over the shoulders), a separate shoe compartment, lots of tech organization, and a TSA-ready laptop sleeve.

Our testers loved the capacity of this pack. “It easily fit everything on the list with plenty of room to spare,” one tester said. “I think everything you would need for up to a week away would fit easily.” The pronounced rectangular shape of the bag made it extra easy to pack and helped organize folded clothes. “The bag had two different shoe pockets, a laptop sleeve, and many other compartments for both smaller clothing items and even some work supplies,” a tester reported.

The one drawback of this pack was our testers didn’t find it the most comfortable. Specifically, the straps were stiff and dug into one tester’s neck. Overall, though, our testers were very pleased with the pack and thought it was worth the fit, especially for the design and ease of packing.

Capacity: 40 liters | Weight: 3.4 pounds | Dimensions: 19 x 21 x 14 inches | Materials: Not listed

Best Multi-use

Peak design travel backpack 45l.

• Value 4.5 /5

Excellent capacity

Easy to handle

Thoughtful storage solutions

This 45-liter travel pack from Peak Design debuted at the Outdoor Retailer Expo in 2018 and promptly won many awards. A few years later, it still holds up. Peak Design basically thought of everything when designing this pack. The outside features weatherproof recycled 400-denier nylon canvas and ultralight padded foam. It includes grab handles on each side, stowable hip belts, and a sternum strap. The inside has multiple pockets for organization and loads of room for trips of four days or longer.

Our testers loved the size and the zippers allowing access from four different sides of the bag. “It was super easy to pack, and there were just enough organization solutions to provide options for different packing strategies,” a tester said. “I also loved how many handles there were. A grab handle on all four main sides of the bag makes it super easy to maneuver, especially when putting it in the overhead compartment.”

Testers also liked the sheath built into the pack to stow the hip belt and the small pocket on the belt for stashing quick-grab items like lip balm, keys, or cards. They also enjoyed the water bottle pockets on both sides and the pack's comfort. Oh, and this pack is 100 percent carbon neutral. The only issue they saw was the price—it’s one of the most expensive on this list. But if you can look at this as an investment, the durability suggests it should last for many years. It's certainly carry-on luggage that any travel-savvy guy can appreciate.

Capacity: 45 liters | Weight: 4.5 pounds | Dimensions: 22 x 13 x 9.5 inches | Materials: Weatherproof 100 percent recycled 400-denier nylon canvas external shell and 900-denier waterproof bottom liner

TripSavvy / Conor Ralph

Most Comfortable

Topo designs global travel bag 40l.

Topo Designs

Excellent internal organization

Many different carrying options

Great for long travel days

Could be roomier

If your travel involves carrying your backpack for long periods, we recommend Topo Designs' Global Travel Bag. This super durable pack is also super comfortable with plush and padded shoulder straps and a hip belt. We also love that there are multiple ways to carry this pack with a comfy and padded sling. Its construction includes durable and recycled nylons with a canvas feel. And it meets Fair Wear certification standards, ensuring fair labor practices.

“There are a ton of compartments and pockets, so a lot of options for staying organized with small or loose items in the absence of packing cubes,” one tester said. “I could easily see places to stash cords, travel docs, electronics, water bottles, and more.”

While our testers liked a lot about this bag—including its durability—the comfort won them over. “All the features built into the bag suggest it's intended to create maximum comfort for someone who anticipates carrying the bag for a more extended period of time,” our tester concluded.

Capacity: 40 liters | Weight: 3 pounds, 10.4 ounces | Dimensions: 22.5 x 14 x 7.5 inches | Materials: 1000-denier recycled nylon, 400-denier recycled nylon, 210-denier recycled nylon, 1680-denier recycled ballistic nylon

Best Splurge

Bellroy transit backpack plus.

Flat opening made for easy packing

Comfortable to carry

Long lasting

Minimal internal organization

If you weren't convinced by our business travel pick above, consider this your alternative. This pack's sleek, durable, and comfortable design makes it ideal for business and formal travel. Our testers found it easy to fit enough items for up to three or four days away. Lighter packers could stretch this to five days. The inside is designed more like a typical carry-on pack with one large compartment.

“This bag felt super light on my back and was padded in all the right places,” a tester reported. “It has adjustable sternum and waist straps that you can tuck into the back of the pack when you don't want to use them, which is a genius feature.” Our testers were also impressed with the bag's durability, as it survived being tossed around our lab with zero marks or scuffs.

Capacity: 38 liters | Weight: 3.3 pounds | Dimensions: 21.7 x 15 x 9.4 inches | Materials: Recycled Dura nylon

Samsonite Silhouette 17 Backpack

• Design 4 /5
• Durability 4 /5

Suitcase-like opening allows easy access

Eco-friendly materials

Suitable for long travel days

Internal organization may be overcomplicated for some

Launched in 1958, Samsonite’s Silhouette collection is likely the oldest on our list. But those six decades of innovation have helped make this one of the best and most versatile bags out there—not to mention one with excellent style. You can also feel good about your purchase knowing that it features 100 percent post-consumer recycled PET bottles.

Our testers liked the size of the bag and the opening, similar to a suitcase, which made it easy to pack and access items. There were many—almost too many—pockets and compartments. And our testers loved how comfortable and supportive this bag was to carry, noting its excellent weight distribution. “I would recommend this bag to someone looking for a backpack they can use as a primary form of luggage,” a tester concluded. “It has enough room and compartments to fit all of the essentials and keep them organized. It's also comfortable, supportive, and easy to carry.”

Capacity: Not listed | Weight: 3.31 pounds | Dimensions: 20 x 12.5 x 7 inches | Materials: Polyester and Recyclex

Best for Techies

Thule subterra backpack 34l.

Functional and looks good

Bag included for dirty laundry

Portable charger

Not the most comfortable

We’ve been pleasantly surprised with Thule’s line of luggage. And that certainly includes the Subterra backpack. This rugged pack could also be a good commuter option as it has a magnetic rolling top closure, a padded laptop sleeve, and a PowerPocket for charging items on the go. We love that it has many access points and comes with a packing cube and garment bag for dirty clothes.

"I loved being able to put my normal packing cubes inside the big cube that comes with the bag, and I was able to use the bag as a day bag anytime I needed to carry extra, and it never felt super bulky,” a tester reported—however, they noted that the bag didn’t particularly help their already-sore back. Not surprisingly, considering its construction, the pack aced our durability tests.

Capacity: 34 liters | Weight: 2.75 pounds | Dimensions: 20.5 x 12.2 x 9.1 inches | Materials: 800-denier nylon

Best for Storage

Mystery ranch mission rover.

Mystery Ranch

Sturdy with grab handles around the pack

Well-designed internal storage

Different ways to carry

A bit heavy

If you’ve never heard of Mystery Ranch, let us introduce you to the Bozeman, Montana-based brand, which makes super rugged packs for backpacking, hunting, the military, and firefighters. This travel-focused pack is incredibly solid on the outside and has many excellent organization and design features inside.

Highlights include a stowable hip belt and shoulder straps, multiple carrying options, a dirty clothes compartment, three inner divided pockets, and lockable zippers.

Capacity: 30, 45, and 60 liters | Weight: 4.3 pounds | Dimensions: 21 x 13 x 12 inches | Materials: Plain spun nylon, 210-denier nylon

We recommend the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack thanks to its incredibly durable polyester and nylon materials, well-designed internal storage, and included rainfly. Another great pick is the Vancropak Travel Backpack , which rings up at a fraction of the cost of some other options on the market.

We selected products to test based on the expertise of TripSavvy editors and writers and on internet research. Not surprisingly, TripSavvy editors and writers travel a lot. And they have many carry-on backpacks they like and don’t like.

To ensure we weren’t missing anything, we also researched what other prominent sites have featured and looked at top-rated and reviewed backpacks on sites like Amazon and REI. Once an initial list of products was selected, we narrowed it down to the final 28 for testing based on style, function, and price.

We tested the backpacks for capacity, design, comfort, durability, and value. In our New York City-based testing lab, we asked testers to pack each backpack with three shirts, two pants, one jacket, one pair of shoes, and a toiletry bag to test for capacity. We asked the testers to consider all aspects of the backpack’s construction, organizational capabilities, and any design innovations.

Testers then carried each backpack around using the different carrying styles. We asked the testers to rate how comfortable the bag felt fully packed. After the comfort test, we asked testers to toss and throw the bag several feet multiple times. We looked for damage on the outside of the bag and any damage to products inside the bag. Lastly, we asked testers to rate the bag for overall value after a price reveal.

We have since sent the backpacks to testers to continue testing as they travel. We will update this document accordingly as their insights are submitted.

Aer Travel Pack 3 : This pack was comfortable to wear thanks to its supportively firm and cushioned back, while its rugged fabric stood up well to rough handling. Our tester subtracted some points for capacity, as it was a squeeze to get everything on the list to fit, and for the more function-forward style.

Everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack : This bag is very nice to look at and proved quite durable. However, it's on the small side and the features aren't particularly travel-oriented—namely, the inflexible bottle holder and the magnetic flip top that is easily displaced when the pack is full.

Minaal Carry-on 3.0 Bag : Our tester appreciated the comfort of the straps and the practical capacity of this bag, though the price was on the higher end and the packing experience was a bit of a learning curve.

Monos Metro Backpack : Another looker, the design of this bag got high praise. We liked the 270-degree opening, the easy-release front pouch, and the comfortable straps. At 18 liters, this back is more of a complement piece to other luggage and could use a better weight distribution system.

Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable : The expansion feature was a hit once we figured out how to use it and the durability of this pack was undeniable. It was difficult to look past a faulty zipper design that got caught frequently when trying to close.

What to Look For in a Carry-on Backpack

Prices for carry-on backpacks vary widely, so consider what your greatest needs are. You can find a spacious travel backpack for under $100—often under $50—but if you plan on facing harsh outdoor environments , consider investing a bit more money for something waterproof. Leather backpacks can cost hundreds of dollars; keep this in mind if that material is important to you. Anti-theft travel backpacks can be a bit more expensive but are often essential in highly trafficked destinations.

There are so many styles out there you could spend days filtering through the different backpacks on the market. Keep it simple: How will you be using this backpack? If you’re interfacing with clients or business partners, look for something minimal and sleek that doesn’t showcase a million pockets. If you plan on living out of your backpack for most of your trip, pockets are more of a priority. You'll want a bag that zips open flat like a suitcase for easy packing and unloading (this also makes going through security easier).

If you are using your travel backpack for hiking, find something with a removable hip harness to distribute the weight of your pack better when you’re on the move. If you plan on wearing your travel backpack casually—only in the airport or to work—seek out a style with adjustable straps and a padded back. This will help ward off any back pain, especially if you carry a lot of weight. When you’re trying on backpacks, test out the shoulder straps and imagine how they would feel if the pack was filled to capacity. Is there ample padding? Will the material cut into your shoulders? Does the back of the backpack feel like it would be breathable?

The size of backpacks is generally measured in volume (liters) or dimensions (inches or centimeters). While it is essential to refer to the specific requirements of the airline you'll be flying, a good starting point for a carry-on when flying domestically is 22 x 14 x 9 inches or 45 total linear inches (115 centimeters) including all handles and wheels. This size comes out to a 43-liter pack, so anything smaller should easily meet any U.S. airline size restrictions. However, this is only the beginning, and several factors may increase or decrease your allowance, such as the size of the plane and flight class you book.

This will vary based on your backpack's materials. For nylon and other water-resistant fabrics, get a damp cloth and spot-clean your pack. A damp cloth will also do the trick if your bag has plastic or metal elements. For leather backpacks, you’ll want to purchase a special leather conditioner and cleaner to maintain the integrity of your backpack.

This is an excellent feature if you plan on hiking or spending long periods carrying your backpack. It will help distribute the weight of your pack better across your body, ultimately providing more comfort. Most backpacks that are focused on outdoor adventures will have this feature.

Many backpacks are marketed as anti-theft, meaning it’s tougher for someone else to get inside your pack. Some backpacks have zippers that allow you to open the main interior compartment while wearing it—so you don’t have to take it off and risk having someone else pick it up. Others are designed with webbing over the zipper openings, making it very hard for someone to locate and unzip the bag while you have it on.

No, this is not the norm when it comes to backpacks. Compression cords make packing easier and function the same way a compression strap or cord would work in a regular suitcase. Some travel-focused carry-on backpacks do have this built-in. But if you want to squeeze in more items, consider investing in some packing cubes . These will help organize your backpack, too.

Nathan Allen is TripSavvy’s Outdoor Gear Editor. He has traveled to five continents, including plane, train, and bus travel. For most travel scenarios, he prefers backpacks over spinners or roller suitcases because of their ruggedness and different carrying methods. He currently uses Cotopaxi’s Allpa 35L, Thule’s Subterra, and Topo Design’s Global Travel Pack the most. Each product recommended in this review was thoroughly researched and tested.

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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

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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.

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.

Best Weekender Travel Backpack

Away f.a.r convertible backpack 45l.

Best Carry-On Travel Backpack

Asenlin 40l travel backpack.

Best Travel Backpack for Backpacking

Osprey porter 46l travel pack.

Best Travel Backpack for Business Travel

Tumi alpha bravo search backpack.

Best Travel Backpack for Flying

Thule aion travel backpack.

Best Travel Backpack for Work

Samsonite silhouette 17 backpack.

Best Lightweight Travel Backpack

Osprey daylite plus daypack.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 a senior product analyst at 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. 

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The 12 Best Travel Backpacks for Men & Women in 2024 [Detailed Guide]

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

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Editor-in-Chief

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Table of Contents

Why use a backpack over a suitcase, things to consider with travel backpacks, carry-on backpacks or checked backpacks, how to wear a backpack properly, the 8 best carry-on-sized travel backpacks, the 4 best checked luggage-sized travel backpacks, final thoughts.

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If you’re planning on traveling the world, your backpack will quickly become your best friend. You’ll get to love the way it feels, the space it offers, and even the way it smells.

It will carry your precious belongings from one location to another, you’ll rest your head on it at airports and bus stations around the world, and it will be with you every step of the way.

For these reasons, and many more besides, choosing the right backpack for your next big adventure is one of the most important travel decisions you’ll ever make.

To clarify, suitcases are great . They’re rugged, reliable, and an excellent choice for single-destination travel where you can unload once and explore. With lots of lovely internal storage space, smooth-rolling wheels, and plenty of fun colors and designs to choose from, a suitcase is still a great way to take your belongings on vacation with you.

But, if you’re planning a trip with multiple stops, a backpack will serve you better.

With the flexibility to roll along the floor, or carry on your back, there’s literally nowhere your backpack can’t go with you. It can carry as much, if not more than your suitcase can, but will weigh significantly less. Small backpacks are perfect for urban exploration or short trips, while larger ones can contain gear for all sorts of adventures.

Sturdy, well-made, and full of hidden extras like daisy chains, mesh pockets, bottle holders, and so much more, your backpack offers enough space to hold everything you need for every kind of adventure.

Keep the suitcase for the city weekend break but grab your backpack when you have bigger plans to take on.

Bottom Line: Backpacks are more flexible and are allowed virtually everywhere. Not only do backpacks serve as great luggage, but they then can transition to a day pack for adventuring. 

Not all backpacks are made the same. It’s important to find one that fits your unique needs and has all the right extras to fit your travel plans. Before you buy, consider these things:

Size and Capacity

The right size backpack for you will come down to your personal preference and requirements. If you’re taking lots of gear with you and traveling to multiple destinations with differing weather, or if you just aren’t one to travel light, you’ll probably need to look at a 60-liter backpack or bigger to fit everything in.

A bigger backpack will need to be checked in when you fly, meaning you’ll be at the mercy of check-in gates and luggage carousels, so be sure you really need to take all that stuff before you commit to it.

Smaller backpacks, on the other hand, may not have the capacity to take the kitchen sink with you on your journey, but they can be used as cabin bags and are generally easier to travel around with when you get there.

Most 40-liter backpacks are carry-on sized while some 50-liter backpacks that don’t have a rigid frame may also be small enough to carry on.

Backpack capacities usually range from as little as 5 liters for daypacks , up to 30, 40, and 50 liters for cabin bags, and up to 60-, 70-, and even 85-liter monsters for longer adventures and real globetrotters.

If you fill your backpack full of big pieces of gear like hiking boots , of course, it will be cumbersome to carry around with you. But, it’s not just the weight of the backpack when loaded that needs to be considered, as some makes and models can weigh a fair bit even without any gear.

Some bags are made of thick canvas and are constructed using heavy frames that will feel weighty even when empty. Most modern backpacks, however, are made from durable, lightweight materials that shouldn’t make your shoulders ache before you’ve even left the airport.

Hot Tip: As a general rule, a full backpack should weigh no more than 20% of your body weight, and an empty one will need to weigh just a small fraction of that.

Of course, feel free to throw that rule out the window if you feel comfortable carrying heavier loads. It’s entirely up to you!

Wheels vs. No Wheels 

This is a common dilemma. To sum it up, here are some of the pros and cons of both wheeled and non-wheeled backpacks.

Wheeled Backpacks

• The wheels and handles make it easy to lug a heavy load for long distances.
• Unlike a suitcase with wheels, when the terrain gets tough, a backpack can be lifted and carried easily enough until it can be wheeled again.
• Wheeled backpacks have come far in terms of design. Long gone are wonky wheels and lousy handling, as modern-day wheeled backpacks offer excellent maneuverability and are strong and stable on the majority of different terrains.

Non-Wheeled Backpacks

• Traditional backpacks are lighter than their wheeled counterparts and are less boxy in their design.
• Generally speaking, the back systems on non-wheeled backpacks offer better padding and are more adjustable than backpacks with wheels, where straps are seen as a secondary feature to wheels.
• Regular backpacks can handle a good amount of being knocked about during transit. Wheels are more delicate and easily damaged.

If you do decide that you’d like to invest in a wheeled backpack, be sure that you choose one that has free-spinning wheels that are strong enough to roll for miles, as well as a sturdy handle that will take the weight while you pull your belongings along behind you.

Carry Options

Even though backpacks are designed to be carried on your shoulders and back (the clue is in the name), they often have other useful straps and handles to help carry the load, including:

• Shoulder Straps — These padded, adjustable straps are designed to keep your bag on your shoulders and are a key component of an effective backpack.
• Grab Handles — If you’re lifting a heavy backpack off of the floor or hauling it from a luggage carousel, a grab handle will make it quick and easy. Located on the top or the side of the backpack, these should be strong and durable.
• Sternum Straps — This strap helps to distribute the weight of the backpack and to prevent the straps from slipping off your shoulders as you move.
• Stabilizer Straps —These are usually found connecting the top of the backpack to the shoulder straps. They’re there to help take the weight off of your shoulders by bringing the bag forward, bringing the center of the weight inward.

For multi-stop travel, you’ll be loading and unloading your bag frequently. It’s important to choose a bag that makes it easy to locate the things you need. There are a variety of options out there, including:

Top Loader Backpacks

A great idea in theory, but in reality, they’re a pain! If you have a large capacity backpack, everything you put in it will sink to the bottom. So when you need to reach that all-important towel that’s lying beneath all of your clothing, you’ll have to take everything else out to get to it.

That said, top-loading backpacks do have their benefits. As they’re designed for long-distance hiking, they’re better equipped to distribute weight to your hips rather than your shoulders, making them easier to carry.

Top loaders are also usually taller and thinner, which means that they’re easier to walk through crowds with.

Front-Loading Backpacks

These backpacks function like a suitcase, meaning the front panel opens to allow you access to the internal storage space. Easy to pack, and easy to find your gear when you get there, these are the more popular option for casual backpackers and travelers.

That said, keep in mind that front-loading backpacks are generally heavier than their top-loading counterparts.

Having extensively used both types of backpacks, unless you’re going to be in a situation where you have to carry your backpack for long periods, we strongly recommend buying a front-loading backpack.

Water Resistance

If you’re likely to experience rain on your trip, it’s worth getting a rain cover for your backpack.

Made from waterproof material , these can slip over your backpack to keep your belongings safe and dry on the inside, and just as crucially, stop the exterior of your backpack from becoming wet and heavy.

A wet backpack feels rotten to carry, and depending on where you are, you may not get the chance to dry it out properly. Be prepared and carry a rain cover just in case.

Material and Durability

Most backpacks that are designed for real travelers will be made from tough, lightweight materials that will last you for years to come. Ripstop or ballistic nylon are popular choices as they offer extra protection against wear and tear.

Pack-cloth nylon, Cordura, or air-treated nylon are all lightweight and designed to be resistant to scratches and abrasions, while cotton canvas gives a vintage look and feel, but is heavier to carry. Canvas is also less water-resistant than nylon.

You should also look for sturdy, high-quality zippers, clasps, and buckles as you don’t want your backpack to fall open along the way.

All of the straps on your backpack should be soft against your skin. The hip belt and torso straps should include thick, comfortable, and supportive padding, which is often made with dual-density foam or EVA.

The shoulder straps should be contoured for more comfort and to help reduce muscle fatigue and aching.

Some backpacks will also have slightly curved backs or gaps in the padding to allow for airflow. This is especially important in hot countries where your back can get sweaty fairly fast.

Bottom Line: Think about how you travel and where you’re going when figuring out what backpack is right for you. Are you going whitewater rafting? Then a waterproof backpack is a must. Are you sightseeing in Paris? Then a small, secure, fashionable backpack would be ideal. 

Deciding whether to travel with a big backpack that needs checking, or to go without and rely on a smaller, cabin-sized backpack is an endless debate that rages on. In case you’re wondering which option is best, the simple answer is that there’s no right answer!

Be prepared to check your backpack if:

• You’re taking sleeping bags or other camping equipment with you
• You’re the type of person who needs to take a lot of things with you
• You’re taking bulky items like heavy shoes or hiking, scuba, or surf gear with you
• You’re going to be visiting somewhere really cold, where you’ll need extra layers, coats, and snow boots

While you may enjoy the fact that you have enough space to take all your favorite things away with you, remember that bulky baggage is heavier to carry and harder to stow.

You’ll also have to consider the costs. If you’re flying on a low-cost airline, it’s likely that checked baggage will cost you extra. If you’re flying with airlines where checked baggage is included anyway, it won’t make a difference to your bank balance.

Take a big bag by all means, but only if you really need it. If not, stick with something smaller.

Consider carry-on sized luggage if:

• You only need to take lightweight clothing with you
• Your travel plans involve lots of busy, urban environments and street walking
• You’re likely to be taking a lot of flights from one destination to another
• You’re a savvy packer who knows what’s important to bring and what you can do without

Cabin luggage is generally free, which makes leaving the airport quick and straightforward, and is small and light enough to not break your back when you walk from one destination to another. Need more stuff? Buy it when you get there, or find a creative way to go without it.

Hot Tip: Traveling with little ones? Check out our guide to the best travel backpacks for kids .

Wearing a backpack properly is about so much more than just slinging it across your shoulders.

The most important part of your new backpack will be the hip belt, which helps to distribute the weight of your luggage evenly, and to a lesser extent, the sternum strap, which is designed to disperse the weight of the backpack through your shoulders and reduce motion.

While it may be a hefty piece of equipment, your backpack should still feel like a natural extension of your body. It should be comfortable to carry for long periods and not feel like it’s putting pressure on any one part of your body.

The humble hip belt is vital to help distribute the weight and will take up to 80% of the load away from your back and shoulders, allowing your leg muscles to do a lot of the work.

To ensure that you’re wearing your backpack the right way, always be sure to:

• Confirm that the hip belt is buckled and fastened just slightly above your hip bone.
• Adjust the sternum strap vertically, so it sits across your chest. You should pull the shoulder straps closer together, but at the same time ensure that the shoulder straps aren’t pulling at your back.
• Adjust the shoulder straps to ensure that your backpack sits flush against your back.
• Tighten both the shoulder strap and the hip belt until you can physically feel the weight shift from your back to your hips.

Bottom Line: Never underestimate the power of the hip belt. Without it, your shoulders will be shot to pieces in no time at all. Get your hip belt sitting just right, and you can conquer the world with your backpack!

While these backpacks have been listed as carry-on sized, please check with your airline that they meet their requirements. Also, bear in mind that the 50-liter-sized bags below will only meet carry-on requirements if they aren’t completely full.

1. One of the Most Popular Carry-on Backpacks of All Time

Osprey Packs Farpoint 40 Travel Backpack

Sizes:  40 L

Weight:  4.7 pounds

Perfect for a short break or a weekend away, the Farpoint 40 is just one of the many well-designed backpacks available from luggage leader Osprey . This particular model is available in checked luggage sizes of 55-, 70-, and 80-liters, although here we’ll focus on the smaller 40-liter model.

Made from high-quality ripstop nylon, the Farpoint has a large main compartment that opens up with wide a zip panel for easy packing. It also has a separate laptop and tablet sleeve in its own lockable compartment to keep your precious tech safe from would-be criminals.

Designed to be incredibly comfortable to carry, no matter how full of gear it gets, the Farpoint offers a stowaway back panel, harness, and a hip belt that can be used when you need to, and tucked out of sight when you don’t.

The 2 internal compression straps will also keep your belongings safely in one place while in transit, and ensure that you can squeeze as much gear in as you need to.

Designed to be carried like a backpack but packed like a suitcase , this strong and highly durable backpack is a solid favorite with travelers from all around the world. It also fits nicely with cabin carry-on regulations, making it the perfect backpack for fast, efficient air travel anywhere in the world.

What We Like

• Comfortable sternum and hip strap

What We Don’t Like

• Compression straps restrict usage of the water bottle pockets

2. Hard-wearing Travel System With Plenty of Extras

NOMATIC Water Resistant 40L Travel Bag

Weight: 4.05 pounds

This is more a full-service travel system than just a single backpack. It offers a variety of travel solutions to suit every type of traveler.

The NOMATIC travel bag combines all of the very best features from a backpack, duffel bag, and suitcase to create a single travel bag with over 20 features . With a sleek, minimalist design, this bag is made from strong weather-proof materials and is built to last.

Designed to fit the maximum size allowed on most airlines, you can easily fit this bag in the overhead compartment.

With a water pocket, an RFID-protected pocket, a shoe compartment, a padded laptop pocket, a cord organizer, and even a notebook pocket, you’ll be able to keep all of your belongings safe and secure as you travel.

With a 40-liter capacity, you can fit enough gear for a short break or long weekend, and also take your laptop with you. For extra convenience, the laptop compartment lays flat, so you can leave your laptop in the bag when passing through airport security checkpoints .

Made from 100% waterproof tarpaulin material, this backpack is rugged and durable on the outside and offers bonus accessories such as a dedicated laundry bag, detachable waist straps, and waterproof zipper coverings.

• Has an RFID-blocking compartment
• No side pocket to hold a water bottle

3. The Female Equivalent of the Popular Farpoint

Osprey Packs Fairview 40 Women’s Travel Backpack

Weight: 3.16 pounds

Designed with the female frame in mind, the Osprey Fairview is available in 40-, 55-, and 70-liter capacities, but for this review, we’re focusing on the 40-liter version.

Unlike the unisex Farpoint, the Fairview offers a more female-specific fit, and the ergonomic shape will contour the body and be just as comfortable on long journeys as it is on short rides.

With a lightweight frame and compact dimensions that meet most airline carry-on regulations, this is a brilliant backpack for weekends away or short trips overseas.

With the patented LightWire frame suspension, the weight of the backpack rests on the hip belt, saving your shoulders from aches and pains after a day of exploring. With a back system that offers a stowable harness, yoke, and back panel, the Fairview is much more than just a good-looking backpack made for women.

The large zippered compartment is easy to access, making packing a simple task, and the cushioned carry handles mean you can either sling this over your back or carry it like a suitcase.

Inner compression straps are designed to help keep your belongings secure in transit, and the extra stash pockets are perfect for sunglasses, travel documents, and your water bottle.

There’s also a padded internal laptop sleeve, making this an excellent option for both business and leisure travelers alike. The entire suspension stows away under a zippered panel creating a sleek silhouette during transport.

• Zips open like a suitcase for easy packing
• Laptop compartment is not located at the back of the backpack

4. A Comfortable Carry for Women

Osprey Packs Aura AG 50 Women’s Backpacking Pack

Sizes: 50 L

Weight: 4.1 pounds

The Aura AG is one of the best-fitting women’s backpacks available today, and it lives up to the hype. Available in both 50- and 65-liter capacities, you’ll be able to carry everything you need in comfort, however far you’re traveling.

Equipped with Osprey’s unique AntiGravity back system with its fully-ventilated hip belt, this backpack is an incredibly comfortable carry regardless of the terrain you’re covering.

Perfect for warmer climates, the ventilation system will prevent you from sweating and add even more excellence to the Aura’s all-around load carrying experience.

The ExoForm Biostretch harness and the Fit-on-the-Fly hip belt provide outstanding load support and help to reduce strain on your shoulders and back, meaning you can carry heavy loads for longer.

Designed to fit the female form perfectly, this is a backpack that has been designed for women who don’t want to do anything by half.

This backpack is a top loader, but it’s also hydration bladder-compatible. It also has a sleeping bag compartment in the base. If you aren’t traveling with a sleeping bag you effectively have 2 compartments, making it even easier to pack and unpack.

Finally, it comes with the patented Osprey Stow-on-the-Go trekking pole attachments that allow you to stow and access poles without having to remove your backpack.

• Has an internal compartment for a hydration reservoir
• Main compartment is only accessible from the top

5. A Bestseller That Offers Plenty of Practical Space

Kelty Redwing 50 L Backpack

Weight: 3.0 pounds

As one of the best-selling backpacks from the popular Kelty brand, the Redwing 50L offers exceptional load carrying capabilities for an affordable price.

The hybrid loading U-zipper is designed to work as both a “top loader” and a “panel loader,” meaning that you always have easy access to all of your gear.

This backpack also offers zippered side and stash pockets for holding everyday essentials, and the large front pocket provides additional organizational space. The backpack even has a laptop pocket that’s padded and secure.

When it comes to carrying, the LightBeam single aluminum stay and Dynamic AirFlow back panel keep your load stable and comfortable. The Airflow back panel will keep you sweat-free, while the Air Mesh on the shoulder straps, dual-density foam waist belt, and lumbar pad will keep you comfortable regardless of where you’re walking.

Designed for those who love the great outdoors, the Kelty Redwing also comes complete with its very own hydration-compatible design , although the hydration pack is sold separately. For shorter trips out, there’s a water bottle pocket on the side for storing your hydration.

• Useful external pockets for quick access to personal items

6. 2 Packs in 1 From Deuter

Deuter Aviant Voyager 65+10 Travel Backpack

Weight 5.1 pounds

Deuter’s 65L Aviant Voyager backpack is a comfortable size to carry on your back while being big enough to hold everything you need for a trip away. It’s made from 600d fabric with water and abrasion resistance to ensure that this backpack can handle the knocks and scrapes of long-distance travel.

Designed for fast and easy access, the main compartment holds 65 liters and includes a 13-inch laptop sleeve. This pack also has a separate bottom compartment with removable base for heavy items like shoes or to keep dirty laundry separate .

One of the biggest selling points of this particular model is the detachable, 10-liter daypack that can be used for day trips when you reach your destination , or for keeping your wallet , travel documents, and cell phone within easy reach.

Lightweight and easy to carry, the Aviant Voyager 65L has a breathable padded shoulder harness that offers extra stability and improved comfort on longer journeys.

• Has a removable daypack to use on location
• Too large to use as carry-on

7. The Low-cost Carry-on Backpack

Cabin Max Santiago Backpack Flight Approved Carry-On Bag

Weight: 3.08 pounds

The Cabin Max Santiago Backpack is designed to meet the regulations for approved hand luggage on most major carriers. This means you can take your gear with you without having to worry about check-in desks and luggage carousels.

Made from high-strength composite nylon, this useful cabin bag features a main zippered compartment that will hold your clothes and personal belongings and also has some smaller compartments for keeping your valuable items safe.

When it comes to carrying, it couldn’t be easier. With padded, adjustable shoulder straps, you can wear this on your back for the duration of your journey or flip it around to use the carrying handles if that suits you better.

One of the biggest selling points for this particular model is its lightweight, yet durable construction. A very capable little backpack, this is a great budget alternative to other carry-on-sized backpacks from bigger brands.

• Opens fully like a suitcase
• No sternum strap to distribute weight

8. Lightweight and Practical Backpack by Haynes Eagle

Hynes Eagle Travel Backpack 40L

Weight: 2.45 pounds

Made by the popular luggage brand Haynes Eagle, this backpack offers 40L of useable luggage space, as well as high-quality construction and smart storage solutions that the brand is so famous for.

With 3 carrying options and 2 travel modes , you can wear this on your back or carry it in your hands as a good-size backpack or as a suitcase.

The interior space offers plenty of well-thought-out solutions to keep your belongings secure, including 4 exterior compression straps to stop unwanted movement while in transit and a padded laptop and tablet sleeve to keep your devices extra secure.

There are also interior and exterior slot pockets that can be used for keeping your wallet, cell phone, boarding pass, and passport safe while you’re on the move.

The contoured shoulder straps can be hidden away when you no longer need to use them, and the padded air mesh construction makes them super comfortable when you do. The adjustable sternum strap also helps to transfer the weight from your shoulders and keep your backpack upright for longer.

• Easy to store shoulder straps
• Zippers can get stuck

1. A Great Quality Budget Backpack With Removable Daypack

Mountain Warehouse Carrion 65L Rucksack

For travelers who don’t want to be held back by bulky luggage, this is the perfect combination of a spacious backpack and a useful daypack . Perfect for long trips overseas, both packs are made from robust and durable material and are designed with comfort and strength in mind.

To avoid pain and stress on the back and shoulders while on the move, this backpack offers adjustable back and shoulder straps to help you find the optimum position for comfort and load-bearing.

The chest and hip straps also help to stabilize the bag and distribute the weight evenly, making it a comfortable carry from the word go.

For fast access to everyday essentials, there are a variety of pockets to choose from, and the rain and flight cover will help to protect your bag from inclement weather or damage in transit.

The 20L daypack is just the right size for taking with you on excursions, while the main body of the backpack can remain safe and secure back at your accommodation. Offering the best of both worlds, this is a great combination backpack for overseas adventurers.

• Comes with a detachable daypack
• No small pockets on the main backpack

2. A Giant Duffel and Backpack Combo From Osprey

Osprey Packs Transporter 70 Travel Duffel

Sizes: 70 L

Weight:  2.6 pounds

Bigger is better with this spacious duffel that doubles up as a backpack. Made from water-resistant, high-grade material, this duffel is rugged and dependable.

With a contoured harness and yoke integrated into the fabric of the duffel, you can comfortably wear this on your back for as long as you want to. When you prefer to carry it by the handles, the back piece simply stows away out of sight.

Because this bag is designed for use in any terrain, the main compartment comes complete with a weather-protected main zipper with overlapping rain flaps to help keep your belongings protected from inclement weather .

The dual-zippered 3D end pockets are perfect for quickly grabbing your passport, phone, wallet, or other everyday items, while the large U-zip opening in the main compartment makes it super-easy to pack as much as you need to.

For trips where you do need to take lots of gear, there are 8 side-panel and 4 lower web lashing points that let you attach even more to this clever duffel bag with impressive backpack capabilities.

• Wear as a backpack or carry as a messenger bag
• No laptop compartment

3. A Multi-use Backpack for Travel and Hiking

Gregory Mountain Products Women’s Amber 55 Backpack

Weight: 3.1 pounds

Large enough to hold all the gear you need for a weekend away or a short break, the Amber 55 backpack is not just sizable; it’s also incredibly lightweight, too.

This backpack is made from high-quality, lightweight nylon with polyester and the VersaFit adjustable torso length creates a customizable fit for your height.

Perfect for a variety of trips, the wishbone alloy frame creates a stable structure, making it incredibly comfortable to carry even as you add more weight. The load weight will be transferred from your back and shoulders down to the lumbar pad and hips.

For your carrying comfort, the 3D foam breathable back panel allows airflow across the back, preventing sweat patches in all conditions and climates.

The top opening access to the main compartment is easy for packing and unloading while the quick-access waistbelt pockets and the front buckle pocket are perfect for stowing your passport, wallet, cell phone, and other travel essentials .

Compression straps are also included to keep your belongings secure and the backpack stable. This is a great travel backpack that can also be used for multi-day hikes.

• Separate bottom compartment for a sleeping bag or shoes
• Nowhere to neatly store excess straps

4. A Globetrotting Backpack With Innovative Extras

Osprey Men’s Atmos 65 AG Backpacks

The Atmos AG backpack from Osprey is a brand-leading backpack that comes in both 50- and 65-liter capacities.

Based on the patented Osprey Anti-Gravity suspension system, this backpack promises to deliver outstanding ventilation and carrying comfort, all around the world. The Atmos also offers a revolutionary integrated FlapJacket that will help to protect your gear from the elements.

This backpack is so exciting it has even won awards, which cements its reputation as one of the best in the business. It has a seamless back panel made from lightweight mesh and Fit-on-the-Fly hip belt pads that can accommodate different hip sizes to provide a truly custom fit.

The structure of the backpack contours automatically to your body, providing outstanding fit and unrestricted movement, while the adjustable harness allows for custom adjustments using the easy-release cams behind the harness yoke.

With a floating top lid, you can quickly load and unload the Atmos, while the dual-zippered front panel pockets are perfect for storing items that you need superfast access to.

The external compression straps are there to help stabilize the load and act as extra gear carry straps, while the internal straps will keep your luggage in 1 place while you’re on the go.

• Anti-gravity suspension for comfortable carrying
• Hip strap pockets can be difficult to access 1-handed

Wherever you’re headed, and however much you’re planning to take with you, there’s a backpack to suit.

Choose quality and practicality over looks, gadgets, and gizmos, and you’ll quickly find your travel backpack becomes a much-loved travel companion in its own right.

Remember to go for a front-loading backpack if you can and carry the weight on your hips rather than your shoulders!

Looking for reviews on other types of travel bags & products to up your game? Check out these articles:

• The Best Laptop Backpacks To Buy for Travel
• The Best Sling Backpacks for Travel [Men & Women]
• The Best Carry-on Luggage Bags for Any Traveler
• The Best Travel Duffle Bags on the Market
• All Our Best Travel Product Reviews – In One Place

Frequently Asked Questions

What backpacks are good for traveling.

While there are many great backpack brands out there, the most important feature of a backpack is how it opens. A clamshell-style opening or one that zips open like a regular suitcase are the best and most practical types of backpack. The Osprey Farpoint or Osprey Fairview are great examples of these types of backpacks.

Can you carry-on a travel backpack?

Travel backpacks can be taken on as a carry-on provided they meet the measurement restrictions imposed by the airline that you are flying with. Most 40- or 45-liter backpacks have been designed to meet the majority of airline requirements, but it is best to check before you fly.

What size backpack should I take traveling?

The size of the backpack you take traveling comes down to personal preference and the type of gear you will need when you travel. For short trips or a 1-week vacation, a 40-liter backpack will do just fine. If you are going for longer or like to pack more outfits, 50 to 60 liters will be what you need. For longer trips, or if you need to take cold-weather gear or diving gear, consider 70- to 80-liter capacity backpacks.

How big of a backpack do I need for 2 weeks?

The right size backpack for you will come down to your personal preference and requirements. If you’re taking lots of gear with you and traveling to multiple destinations with differing weather or if you just aren’t one to travel light, you’ll probably need to look at a 60-liter backpack or larger to fit everything in.

Why use a backpack over a suitcase?

With the flexibility to roll along the floor, or carry on your back, there’s literally nowhere your backpack can’t go with you. It can carry as much, if not more than your suitcase can but will weigh significantly less. Small backpacks are perfect for urban exploration or short trips, while larger ones can contain gear for all sorts of adventures.

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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10 Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

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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.

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The Best Travel Backpacks for Weekend Getaways and Going Off the Grid

By Carly Fisher and Lori Keong

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The best travel backpacks might serve a need you already have, like carrying your life around with you everywhere you go. Maybe after years of splitting your time between frequent business trips and impromptu weekend trips, you’ve realized it’s time for a luggage upgrade . On the other hand, simply owning the best travel backpack might inspire you to create a need for it in your life. As in, yes, 2023 might be the year that you finally release your job and go full digital nomad with a virtual office . Well, if you get a haul-all, tough-as-nails backpack, you're already one step closer to living that dream. Whether a travel backpack is a necessity for your current lifestyle or a nudge toward the life you've always wanted to have, there’s no better time to invest in a solid backpack that can seamlessly tote your belongings through TSA without breaking a sweat.

The Best Travel Backpacks, at a Glance

Speeding to get to your next destination and short on time to stop for a full rundown on all things luggage? Here's a quick look at our top travel bag picks on this list, assembled after racking up all the air miles toting these around. 

• The Best Travel Backpack for Most People: Patagonia Black Hole , $159
• The Best Rolling Travel Backpack: North Face Rolling Thunder , $270
• The Best Travel Backpack You'll Never Have to Replace: Goruck Slick GR2 , $415
• The Best Really Big Travel Backpack: Tortuga Outbreaker , $299
• The Best Luxury Travel Backpack: Tumi Alpa Bravo Endurance , $825
• The Best Cheap Travel Backpack: Uniqlo Functional Bag , $70

What to Look Out for in a Decent Travel Backpack

Sure, it might seem obvious, but an important disclaimer: Not all backpacks are created equal. There are about a billion on the market right now to choose from. When it comes to travel luggage, function will always be more important than form: Things like reinforced handles, chest straps for locking your bag in place as you navigate your destination, padded back panels, versatile carrying options, and ample storage pockets is what makes all that transit time much easier. A generous warranty also makes it easier to invest in something worthwhile without falling for any old cheapo backpack you spot online.  But if you’re prepared to spend some serious money on a serious bag, we think you should be able to find something stylish, too. After all, travel gear is getting smarter with all sorts of cool ways to keep organized and stay plugged in (hello, packing cubes ). Might as well look good while you’re doing it.

How We Tested

We tested most of the following bags on planes, trains, and taxis (and tacked on a couple other handsome options that have the stats to measure up to their peers). We dragged them through customs. Baggage handlers abused them. We carried them through extreme weather conditions and temperature-controlled five-star hotel lobbies. Whatever life throws you, these backpacks can get handle it. Here, our top picks for the best travel backpacks out there that are ready for the long haul.

The Best Travel Backpack for Most People: Patagonia Black Hole

Patagonia Black Hole 40L duffel bag

You've probably spotted Patagonia's instantly recognizable Black Hole duffel in many an airline terminal or baggage claim carousel over the years. This ruggedly handsome bag comes in a variety of sizes, whether you're toting it in economy class or checking it for later, and is beloved by off-the-grid trekkers and budget shoppers alike. We've previously deemed this shiny convertible bag one of the best carry-ons overall, but it also secures the top spot in the backpack category for its versatile design that allows you to schlep it via its reinforced top handles like a duffel, on your back like a student of learning, or by its grab handles when you're hauling it into the overhead compartment. 

Its weather-resistant exterior, made of recycled ripstop materials, keeps your goods dry when rain's in the forecast, and at $125, it's also accessible for anyone on a college student budget or beyond. Another big plus: As its name suggests, the depths of its large main compartment feel virtually bottomless. In it, you can make several changes of clothes disappear, along with any camera gear you're taking off the grid.  

The Best Rolling Travel Backpack: North Face Rolling Thunder

Rolling Thunder 30in Rolling Gear Bag

The North Face

You might be thinking that rolling backpacks should have been retired after entering high school. But despite their dorky reputation, you won't feel so embarrassed when you're sprinting across the airport to catch your flight, or dealing with a five-story walk-up to your Airbnb pied-à-terre . That extra wheels assist can really come in handy for maneuvering, and the backpack straps make it easy to shoulder your pack up a steep ascent. North Face's Rolling Thunder is one extremely solid piece of hybrid, convertible luggage exists that lets you have it both ways, with shoulder straps and a slick set of wheels in a bright red hue. It’s tough as hell and made with eco-friendly recycled polyester and nylon that can withstand considerable wear and tear, plastic bumpers to give it more shock absorption against thumps in transit, and spacious enough to squeeze about a week's worth of clothes in here.

The Best Travel Backpack You'll Never Have to Replace: Goruck Slick GR2

Goruck x Huckberry

Slick GR2 Travel Backpack

If you want something with military-grade durability that looks like something you just picked up at the local surplus store, GoRuck’s GR2 is your best bet. Developed by a former Green Beret, GoRuck’s collection is known for its grit in extreme conditions. It's also the only backpack on this list that touts a laptop compartment which is both rainproof and bombproof , so if your traveling destinations are more 38th parallel than Cabo, your valuables will be safe and secure. This Huckberry collab is a slight spin on the original GR2, with silent YKK zippers, extra padded shoulder straps for trekking heavy loads, and a design that opens flat so you can rearrange your meticulously packed essentials more easily. Sure, it's certainly more expensive than most other packs on this list. But with its generous lifetime warranty, just think: You'll never have to worry about ponying up to buy another backpack again.

The Best Really Big Travel Backpack: Tortuga Outbreaker

Tortuga Outbreaker backpack

If your long-stint travel tends to take you off-road more than into the city, the Outbreaker Backpack by Tortuga is a solid bet to make sure your gear stays protected. You’re essentially wearing a comfy, carry-on size suitcase, but it fits in way more than your average rollie. Ample pockets and compartments can squeeze in at least one week of travel clothes, a 17-inch Macbook, 9.7-inch tablet, Dopp kit, and more chargers than you probably need. Since the bag is geared towards carrying your life around with you, keeping your valuables safe from the elements is key. That’s why the Outbreaker is encased with waterproof sailcloth woven with all kinds of impressive but indecipherable materials that we won't bother listing out here.

The Best Luxe Travel Backpack: Tumi Alpa Bravo Endurance

Tumi Alpha Bravo Endurance Backpack

Saks Fifth Avenue

With an extra $800 to spare, you could upgrade your international flight to first class, splurge a little more on your accommodations, or book that trip to Bali instead of Boston. But when your next direct deposit hits, you might also feel compelled to ball out a little on the bag that's stowing all your gear. To that end, there are plenty of options out there, but few that match the style of Tumi's rucksack-esque Alpha Bravo Endurance backpack.

Tumi probably needs no introduction as this point: It's long been a favorite of the business class set for its sturdy and dependable luxury bags that don't make you look completely pedestrian when you're back on the tarmac. For someone who wants an upscale travel backpack that still delivers on all the basics, the Endurance's clever ballistic nylon silhouette packs in a plethora of pockets and compartments, and can zip open from the side or the top to help you pack all your gear in snugly. Its back padding is more minimal than some of the more heavy-duty trekkers on this list, so we wouldn't suggest actually backpacking with it, but for a long-haul, first-class flight out to Fiji, you might be inclined to pack something this sleek. It's carry-on compatible, but in case you choose to check it, Tumi's anti-theft Tracer program ensures that you'll always know if it's spinning out in the middle of the ocean . 

The Best Cheap Travel Backpack: Uniqlo 

Functional Backpack

You may think of Uniqlo as the place you score your budget cashmere and affordable J.W. Anderson or Christophe Lemaire collabs…not so much a place to score travel gear. But the Japanese designheads that run the show dabble in a little bit of everything and their roomy 32-liter “Functional” backpack certainly lives up to its branding. 

For a sub-$100 backpack, we love that the shoulder straps and the back panel is padded for extra support and that there's an adjustable support strap to keep your bag locked in place over your torso. There's also room for a 15-inch laptop in here, two roomy pockets up front for your grab-and-go essentials, and all told, the minimal cotton-nylon design will look a lot better than any old Jansport or no-name brand you plucked off Amazon. If most of your spare cash is going to airfare and lodging, this carry-on size backpack from Uniqlo will handle everything else you need to get yourself over the threshold at your next hostel. 

5 Other Travel Backpacks We Like

F.A.R. Convertible Backpack

Away's fleet of travel bugs cut through the noise of all the boring black nylon options out there with metallic spinners and millennial-friendly colors. This convertible backpack doesn't fall too far from the tree in that regard: It's another blessedly convertible option made from recycled, water-resistant materials, but feels a little less flashy than the shiny weatherproofing of our top Patagonia pick. Removable padded straps smoothly transition the bag from a duffel to a backpack, while a reinforced chest strap adds another layer of support when you wear the bag on your back. It's also slightly larger than the Black Hole, with a 45-liter capacity and multiple side pockets inside and out for stuffing in toiletries and small tech accessories. At about $100 more, it's not as affordable as the Black Hole, but also not a huge stretch.

Black Ember Citadel R2

Black Ember

Black Ember’s Citadel R2 is the health goth of travel backpacks. Developed by a team of Nike and North Face vets, it's a true form-meets-function backpack made of neo-futurist textiles like "Microhex 800 denier," "T6 aircraft-grade anodized aluminum," "laser-cut hypalon," and "durable YKK aquaguard zippers." Don’t expect to fit your whole life in this sleek minimalist bag, but with a more-than-decent 25 liters of storage and room for a 15-inch laptop, it is perfect for an impromptu day trip or the airport-to-office hustle.

Aer Travel Pack 3 X-Pac

When you need to lug around a ton of stuff but want to look good doing it, the Travel Pack 2 from Aer is the best of both worlds. Don’t be fooled by its simple black facade—this bag is tough as nails. Made from Cordura ballistic nylon and Duraflex plastic hardware, it's as ready for the Hunger Games as the airport. There's a solid amount of utility for the business traveler such as a shoe compartment, plenty of internal pockets for accessories and storage, easy laptop compartment access, and side compression straps for shoving every last bit in. Did we mention it also looks really cool?

Knack Pack Medium Expandable Knack Pack

Don't judge the Medium Expandable Knack Pack on the relatively small size impression, because this pack is basically the inflating frog neck bubble of bags. With a quick unzip it expands to double in size from 27 liters to a max of 39 liters. That's enough space to fit up to three changes of clothes (or even more, if you’re an above-average packer). It’s small enough to fit under an airplane seat in case you want to travel light, or can pull double-duty for any overflow that won’t fit in your carry-on suitcase. It's totally water-resistant down to the zippers so your valuables are be protected from the elements and absurdly light at around two pounds. Also, a 180-degree opening makes it easy to access things like your RFID wallet and passport, though you can also stash your soiled laundry and other unmentionables in any of the many hidden, zippered pockets.

Topo Designs Travel Bag

Topo Designs

If you’re the kind of guy who would rather be hanging off a cliff in Denali or shooting hot dog photos in Reykjavik, you’ll probably want a bag with a splash of personality like this one. Denver-based outdoors retailer Topo Designs is known for its splashy gear and apparel, and its travel bag (available in multiple sizes) has become a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts. That's because aside from the head-turning colors that make it easy to spot on a luggage conveyor belt, the bag is a total workhorse. It can fit up to five packing cubes, a Dopp kit , 15-inch laptop, and accessories, all inside a carry-on compliant, 40 liter size.

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The Best Travel Backpacks for Long Trips, According to Frequent Travelers

Hauling all of the clothing, toiletries, and gear you need for a monthlong trip in a backpack might sound like a nightmare, especially if you’re used to rolling luggage . But there are plenty of instances when traveling with a backpack is easier, especially if you’ve got plans to hop on buses or trains, or are going to cities where paved roads (and therefore surfaces for easy luggage-rolling) are in short supply.

The challenge is to find a travel backpack that’s big enough to fit everything you might need, yet is still comfortable to carry. So to help you find the best carry-on and travel backpacks for long trips, we spoke with 14 frequent and intrepid travelers , who spend weeks on the road (or the hiking trail) at a time, about the bags they’re most excited to pack up and strap onto their backs. While not as sleek as their wheeled counterparts, these backpacks will serve you much better on longer and more adventurous journeys. Just don’t forget the packing cubes .

Like several of the experts we talked to, JourneyWoman editor-in-chief and frequent backpacker Carolyn Ray is a longtime fan of Osprey’s backpacks for longer, more rugged trips. The Osprey Porter has been her “go-to pack” for years at this point, and she most recently used it during a three-month journey across Mexico. The 65-liter bag has a bucket-style opening, which gives you easy access to all your stuff with one quick zip around. It also has loops on which to attach a smaller day pack.

James and Susan Feess, bloggers at The Savvy Backpacker , have tried many backpacks in their time. But Osprey’s classic Farpoint is the one they keep returning to. It’s just about the perfect backpack for long-term travel,” they tell us. “It has some of the best and most comfortable shoulder straps and harness we’ve used. It’s lightweight, it has a detachable day pack, it looks nice, it is pretty affordable, and we like Osprey’s lifetime warranty.”

Washington Post reporter and inaugural New York Times 52 Places traveler Jada Yuan also cites Osprey as her top travel-backpack brand. When spending her year abroad reporting for the Times , she used the 40-liter Fairview, which is the women’s version of the Farpoint above — but not before trying and failing to travel with a set of rolling luggage. “I don’t know how I got through 16 stops of my trip before buying the Osprey Fairview,” she recalls. “My back and shoulders hurt all the time. I needed something with strong lumbar support, a waist belt, and a chest strap so that I could make it through the trip without getting crippled.” The Fairview, she says, is perfectly bare-bones: “Just one giant cavity, plus a zippered section for your laptop and a bunch of straps on the outside for carrying, say, a bulky jacket that won’t fit anywhere.” She took it across Europe, Africa, and Asia, noting that with the addition of zipper locks, it was relatively secure against thieves. Yuan traveled with the overhead-compartment-friendly 40l version of the bag, but non-minimalist packers could definitely upgrade to the 55l version. “Or go up to 65l,” Yuan suggests. “No one ever checks.”

Though loyal to Osprey, Ray also pointed us to Gregory’s line of travel backpacks, which she likes for their style, practicality, and fit. Her pick is the 60-liter Deva backpack, with a breathable back panel that makes multiday hiking more bearable. “Whether I’m hiking the Camino de Santiago or the new ‘Canadian Camino’ in Prince Edward Island, these packs are so comfortable that I almost forget I’m wearing one,” she says.

Award-winning CNN travel journalist Oneika Raymond swears by High Sierra’s affordable frame backpacks, which can be used for long trips as well as backpacking. She’s used hers while traveling from Bolivia to Botswana, and tells us that the pack is “lightweight, relatively inexpensive, sturdy, and stylish,” with an ergonomic design that fits her body perfectly. “I like it because it has a top compartment, which I typically reserve for undergarments, and the bottom front compartment, which I’ll reserve for shoes,” she adds. “Because the middle compartment is very large, it’s ideal for clothing. I can pack quite a lot of things in the bag, but because it’s tall and narrow, it still remains sleek and fairly easy to carry.”

Atlas Obscura senior editor and writer Gemma Tarlach ’s 55-liter Kelty has seen it all, and then some: New Zealand’s South Island wilderness, a hurricane in Iceland, and a trekking accident in Chile’s Torres del Paine national park. “I took a tumble off the trail and ended up sliding down a mountainside of scree with my pack dragging behind me,” she recalls. “By the time we came to a stop, the pack was in better shape than I was.” She even used the bag to carry provisions for a winter season on Antarctica’s McMurdo Station: “It performed the task with great dignity.” The pack, as Tarlach puts it, is “nothing super-fancy — just built for adventure.” While Tarlach has had her Kelty for so long that the exact model has been discontinued, this one has the same capacity and a similar design.

Atlas Obscura editor-in-chief Samir Patel , meanwhile, vouches for Mountainsmith packs, which are similarly designed for adventurous, off-the-beaten-path travel. He has two and says that this 45-liter pack is the closest in style to his since-discontinued models.

When traveling on assignment, photographer Daniel Rodrigues takes along his trusty Forclaz trekking backpack. He finds it particularly suited to rail travel — as in, crossing the Sahara on an iron-ore transport train. “After having suffered a lot, she is still like new, and that’s something I love about her,” he says of his pack. “The kind of trips I do can be rough and dirty at times, and she still holds up.” In addition to being comfortable — Rodrigues says the Forclas “adjusts perfectly to the body,” allowing hours of walking — the pack is also the perfect size for carrying clothes, a sleeping bag, and even a tent.

Adventure writer and blogger Ashley Gossens has a slightly older version of this Granite Gear pack — a sure sign that the brand’s designs are worth the investment. “I love it because it is lightweight with tons of space for multiday treks,” she says. “It is available in different torso lengths, which is great for me since I am short. It has extra-comfy padding on the hip belt, which is also adjustable. I also really like that it has a detachable top pouch that I can use for taking just the essentials to explore around camp.” On Gossens’s five-day, 45-mile trek in the Glacier Peak wilderness of Washington, she was easily able to fit her tent, sleeping bag, food, and more into the pack.

If you’re lugging expensive gear around — especially photography equipment — a discreet, secure pack is a must. XpatMatt blogger Matt Gibson upgraded to this bag after an ill-fated trek through Kyrgyzstan, and he hasn’t looked back. “I like that it looks good,” he says. “But more important to me is that it doesn’t scream ‘photography backpack,’ because that often makes you a target for robbery in certain places. It also has a ton of safety features that make it much more difficult for your average thief to get into, such as mesh wiring in the fabric and easily lockable zippers and pouches.”

Some long trips require a sturdier and more durable bag than others, as photographer Hunter McRae can attest. She has a couple of Lowepro bags, which are designed with camera storage in mind, that she swaps between for different adventures. Her waterproof pick, the cult-favorite Lowepro DryZone 200, has sadly been discontinued — but you might have luck finding one via secondhand resellers. McRae also recommends the Lowepro Photosport. “Even if I’m just bringing a single body and a lens or two, it’s the most comfortable way to lug them around, and it leaves me room for water, extra layers, and kids’ stuff.”

Rodrigues is also a Lowepro fan and will opt for one of the brand’s day packs to carry his photography equipment while on the road with his larger-capacity trekking rucksack. “Everything fits,” he declares. “And when I say everything, I mean everything: three cameras, three lenses, computer, drone, and sometimes even clothes.”

And here’s a no-nonsense carry-on option courtesy of Bess Carey , director of people and culture at Atlas Obscura — as well as America’s favorite traveler, Rick Steves. “I’m embarrassed about how much I like this backpack,” Carey says. “My parents got it for me when I was in high school and headed to Europe on a trip where we were supposed to travel with just a carry-on. Nearly 20 years later, I am still using it for certain types of travel, even though I have nicer, fancier suitcases and a hiking backpack that I didn’t have back then.” Today’s model is “basically the same” as the one Carey’s parents got her back in 2002, which is still in usable condition. “I like it because it’s bare-bones,” she adds. “I never worry about it getting dirty, it absolutely doesn’t look worth stealing, either.”

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18 Best Travel Backpacks, According to Frequent Flyers

By Gabrielle Porcaro

As someone who frequently travels, I've slung duffels, totes , and travel purses on my arm, but nothing compares to using the best travel backpacks. Depending on the length of your trip, a suitcase can either be too bulky or not big enough, so you'll need the vital second bag to make sure all your clothes, tech, and gear securely arrive at your destination. Plus, traveling with a backpack can be more supportive for your back, freeing up your arms and hands to pull out directions on your phone or to hold an iced coffee. Backpacks can also be surprisingly roomy, so everything you need (or want) on your trip fits as comfortably as possible. The good news is there are a wide range of excellent options to suit any and all of your needs. Below, we found the most travel-friendly options and tapped Glamour editors and some of our frequent-flier friends to share the best travel backpacks.

What to look for in a travel backpack

When shopping for luggage items like a travel backpack, the comfort and capacity of the bag is key. You want it to feel easy on the body, which means wide straps or a hip belt to distribute weight, which comes in handy if you're running to catch a plane or carrying it through a crowded subway. Bonus points if the straps are they adjustable and padded. Consider the material: Is it lightweight, soft, and made of durable material like water-resistant fabric? As for size, think about the use of the backpack. There are weekender bags and carry-on size options you can use for long weekends or smartly packed weeklong vacations and styles for short day trips, hikes, or shopping excursions.

The best travel backpacks, at a glance

• Best Overall : Cotopaxi Allpa 42L Travel Pack , $210
• Best on Amazon : Shrradoo Extra Large 52L Travel Laptop Backpack , $33
• Best Daypack : Lululemon Everywhere Backpack , $78
• Best Budget : Coofay Carry On Backpack , $30
• Best for Commuters : Everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack , $95
• Most Stylish : Tumi Voyageur Just in Case Packable Nylon Travel Backpack , $150

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Best Overall : Cotopaxi Allpa 42L Travel Pack

Cotopaxi Allpa 42L Travel Pack - Del Día

Here's a simple, sleek backpack with plenty of built-in organization. “My twin sister and I have traveled the world together, and this bag came in particularly handy on our trip to South America when we both needed more room besides our carry-on luggage. What I loved about this piece is it's essentially a suitcase with straps. The wrap zipper fully opens up, allowing you to see and organize your goods into the compartments. Crafted in repurposed nylon, the exterior is one of a kind, and the colors made it easier to spot one another through the crowds,” says Glamour contributor Gabrielle Porcaro .

Capacity: 42 L / Waterproof : Water-resistant

• Pros: Repurposed nylon body; suitcase layout; weight-distributing harness system
• Cons: Can easily show dirt

Best on Amazon : Shrradoo Extra Large 52L Travel Laptop Backpack

SHRRADOO Extra Large 52L Travel Laptop Backpack

As a runner-up, consider this the Swiss Army knife of backpacks. Hidden in this compact, durable bag are 20 pockets and compartments to accommodate and organize everything from clothes to an umbrella to power cords. A practical standout feature of this travel backpack is an external USB port with set-in charging cables to charge your phone (just remember to charge your power pack before heading out on your trip). Another noteworthy aspect is the U-shaped 3D breathable mesh straps designed to relieve stress from shoulders and reduce a sweaty back.

Capacity: 52 L / Waterproof : Water-resistant

• Pros: So many pockets for organizing; USB charging port; comfortable
• Cons: Chunky, technical look

Best Daypack : Lululemon Everywhere Backpack

Lululemon Everywhere Backpack 22L

Lululemon gets a lot of love for its Lulu leggings and activewear, but don't sleep on accessories like its laptop bags . A classic backpack with a modern design, the Everywhere Backpack has a clean appearance that will effortlessly match your look. Inside it's spacious and has a padded pocket that fits a 16-inch laptop. On the exterior is a front zipper pocket for keys, antibacterial wipes, headphones…whatever you need handy while on the go.

Capacity: 22 L / Waterproof : Water-repellent

• Pros: Internal laptop sleeve; side water bottle pockets; lightweight
• Cons: No luggage strap; not a ton of pockets

Best Budget : Coofay Carry On Backpack

Coofay Carry On Backpack

This affordable, multifunctional pack is lightweight but can hold a lot and easily fit under an airline seat as a carry-on. “I loved the space and compartments of this bag. It's durable and packed a lot of room for so many things. The luggage handle strap is also a bonus if you're hauling a roller bag,” wrote one Amazon reviewer . Bonus: It has a shoes and a wet pocket compartment.

Capacity: 17 L / Waterproof : Yes

• Pros: Separate shoe compartment, 29 color options; USB port design
• Cons: Short luggage strap

Best for Commuters : Everlane the ReNew Transit Backpack

Everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack

Whether you're a college commuter or in the office most days, this is an excellent option for everyday travel or work trips. It's a go-to for Condé Nast associate director of box business operations Haley Welch . “The separate laptop compartment makes organizing seamless, as does the front and upper zipper compartments, which is great for a Kindle,” she says. She likes that the chic and minimal look effortlessly mixes with every outfit, from comfy travel joggers and hoodies to a work-appropriate suit or dress.

Capacity : 27 L / Waterproof : Water-resistant

• Pros : Internal and external water bottle holders; zipper pocket on top; made from renewed materials
• Cons : Only holds a 15-inch laptop

Most Stylish : Best Tumi Voyageur Just In Case Packable Nylon Travel Backpack

Tumi Voyageur Just in Case Packable Nylon Travel Backpack

For anyone looking for a dressier option for their everyday commute or regular work trips, Tumi has a gorgeous style. Don't let the sleek appearance fool you; the zipper reveals a very roomy interior but still folds flat. A two-way zipper makes it easier to grab whatever you need from the inside with a smaller front pocket as well. There’s also a very convenient add-to-a-bag sleeve to secure this nicely over your suitcase handle, making it one to use on daily and international excursions. It's so stylish it can double as a cute work bag for office days.

Capacity: 15"H x 12"W x 4 1/2"D. (Interior capacity: large) / Waterproof : Water-resistant

• Pros :Packable; folds down flat; lightweight
• Cons: Doesn’t fit a ton

Best for Organization : Snoffic Travel Backpack

Snoffic Travel Backpack

If remaining organized is of the utmost importance while traveling or in everyday life, look no further than this Snoffic backpack. This wallet-friendly pick has a 4.6-star rating on Amazon and under $35 price tag. “I was able to pack a week's worth of summer clothes in it, which included two summer dresses," says one Amazon reviewer . Not only does this bag offer ample space and waterproof material, but it also includes two clear toiletry bags (also waterproof) to help you reduce your zip-lock baggie usage. Plus, it comes in a wide range of pretty shades.

Capacity : 40 L / Waterproof : Water-resistant

• Pros : Nicely priced; roomy; includes two toiletry bags
• Cons : Boxy shape

Best for Pockets : Athleta Excursion Backpack

Athleta Excursion Backpack

This pick, courtesy of Glamour commerce editor Malia Griggs , is one that can hold every little trinket or gadget you own. “I thought this backpack was going to my go-to for hiking, but it’s actually my go-to for pretty much everything. I love how sleek it is, and yet, despite its slim appearance, it manages to fit my 15-inch laptop, my secondary screen, charger, headphones, e-reader, and mouse. It has handy organizational features, like an inner key ring, zippered outer pockets for me to stash my lip gloss and phone, and not one but two mesh pockets that fit my water bottle and an umbrella. Its handles are also made of a breathable fabric—so useful when I’ve worked up a sweat while out and about.”

• Pros :Lightweight; ripstop material resists snags and tears; mesh back panel for added support
• Cons: Larger on top shape

Best Minimalist Design : Dagne Dover Dakota Medium Neoprene Backpack

Dagne Dover Dakota Medium Neoprene Backpack

“On my last flight I saw not one, not two, but multiple travelers with this style hanging from their backs. As someone who regularly takes Dagne Dover bags on trips, I understand the popularity. The neoprene material is strong, soft, and stretchy, which causes the bag to flex to your body and whatever you put inside. It's forgiving, allowing you to fit in and possibly overstuff everything you need for a trip. It also washes well, ensuring it will always have that chic appearance even after some wear and tear,” says Porcaro. Dagne Dover also makes excellent diaper backpacks like this parent-approved Indi Diaper Bag .

Capacity: 16 L / Waterproof : No

• Pros: Packs a lot; machine washable
• Cons: Neoprene is a bit heavier than other material; material creases easily

Best for Airplane Travel : Augustnoa Classic Noa

Augustnoa Classic Noa

“So many features drew me to this bag: the eco-friendly (plus water-friendly) material, smart design, and luggage sleeve—a must for any travel carry-on piece. There are ten pockets and compartments to organize essentials, something I took full advantage of when using. As an active person trying to hydrate more, I also appreciated the side pockets that securely held my water bottle (I bent over, and it didn't budge). It also includes a removable drawstring bag, something I always forget to pack for morning workouts and overnight travels,” says Porcaro.

Capacity: 21 L / Waterproof : Water-resistant

• Pros: Pockets on straps; laptop and tablet sleeve; two water bottle holders
• Cons: Pockets in the back and on straps are small

Best Roll Top : Roark Passenger 27L 2.0 Bag

Roark Passenger 27L 2.0 Bag

Expandable storage is always a plus with any travel bag. This backpack, from super cool brand Roark, has an adjustable top to allow more room. The roll-top also has a magnetic entry, allowing for easy and secure access on the move. Interior and exterior pockets, including one for your tablet or laptop, sunglasses, and a hidden pocket for your passport, are specific details that make this a unique backpack. Ergonomic air mesh padded straps, a quilted back, and chest straps prevent this from adding any discomfort to your travels. The appearance calls for adventure, but it equally works in cities.

Capacity: 27 L / Waterproof : 100% Nylon

• Pros: Streamlined look; quilted back; magnetic closure top
• Cons: Could use more internal pockets

Best Large Travel Bag : Patagonia Black Hole Duffel 55L

Patagonia Black Hole® Duffel 55L

The beauty of this bag is it says it right in the title—it's a black hole. With a 55-liter capacity, there's no doubt it will hold everything you need for a long weekend or even a long weekend trip. Ultra-comfortable to carry, it's perfect for hiking excursions, camping trips, or multi-city European backpacking adventures. Durably made with 100% recycled fabric, this fits in the overhead bin; if you want to check it, you can trust it will return to you just as you left it.

Capacity: 55 L / Waterproof : Water Repellent

• Pros: Large, carry-on size, top and side handles; removable shoulder straps
• Cons: Rugged design

Best for Laptop : Herschel Kaslo Dayback Tech Backpack

Herschel Kaslo Dayback Tech Backpack

If you're looking for a laptop backpack , this is a top choice. Hershel backpacks are a go-to for marriage and family therapist and mom of two boys, Whitney Steller. “I have had this for almost six years, and the quality is amazing. No rips or anything and the straps are still comfortable. “The classic grade school look was also a draw and the fact that it fits perfectly under a plane seat. This style, in particular, is eco-friendly, made from post-consumer water bottles, and has a padded compartment to fit up a 15-inch laptop.

Capacity: 20 L / Waterproof : No

• Pros: Optional strum strap to help disturbed weight; padded compartment for laptop
• Cons: No luggage sleeve

Best Y-Pack : Topo Designs Y-Pack Backpack

Topo Designs Y-Pack Backpack

This is an awesome option for anyone who ends up leaving a trip with more than they brought. “The adjustable Y-shaped strap can be tight and secure or loosened to allow for more room, which is the reason why this is a piece of heavy rotation for me. It always shocks me how much I can fit/shove into the main compartment yet still slide my laptop out of the back sleeve. No matter if it’s filled with a hoodie and various pouches holding makeup, power cords, and snacks; it's easy to access. I like to use the zip pocket on the top to store antibacterial wipes, hand sanitizer, headphones, and anything else I want easy access to once I arrive on the flight,” says Porcaro.

Capacity: 23.8 L / Waterproof : No

• Pros: Drawstring closure offers more space; zip pocket on top for easy access; durable material great for travel and the outdoors
• Cons: G-hook buckle closure can sometimes be tough

Best Waterproof : SealLine Skylake Dry Pack

SealLine Skylake Dry Pack

The beauty of this piece is that it rolls up for easy packing within a suitcase or larger travel backpack. The fact that it's created from an extremely lightweight material also ups the packability and wear factor. Jen Ator, a personal trainer, used this on her honeymoon in Thailand. “Not only was it super sturdy and waterproof, but it fits everything we needed during day trips.” She also pointed out how handy the exterior pocket was for easy access to essentials like a phone to snap a picture of her and her husband.

Capacity : 18 L / Waterproof : Yes

• Pros: Lightweight; stowable
• Cons: No interior pocket

Best Convertible : Thule Crossover 2 Convertible Backpack

Thule Crossover 2 Convertible Backpack

Adaptability is vital when traveling, and this Thule convertible backpack offers various ways to hold it. If you're in a tight space, de-boarding, or want to give your shoulders a break, there is a longer shoulder strap and top handle to hold. Inside the backpack, you'll find compartments that look like your favorite easy-rolling carry-on suitcase, making it easy to keep everything with you secure and organized. Another standout feature is the exterior crush-resistant SafeZone compartment that's perfect for storing sunglasses or a phone.

Capacity: 21 ¾"H x 14"W x 8"D. / Waterproof : Water Resistant

• Pros: Crust resistant, two-way zip closure, RFID-shielded pocket;
• Cons: Expensive

Best for City Travel : PAK Large Nylon Backpack

PAK Large Nylon Backpack

“As a backpack I recently added to my collection, I was impressed by how many features were hidden in what seemed like a pretty basic bag. First, it’s worth noting how seamlessly this slid on and off my back, making it a breeze to sit on the subway or grab my wallet to buy coffee. At first glance, I was confused about the zipper on the bottom of the front pocket, but when I realized it was a coat sling, which, as someone who runs cold and always has an extra layer, is something I will use again and again. Another made-for-me feature is an extra large pocket for water bottles since it’s a personal pet peeve when they aren’t wide enough for standard sizes. Having only worn this around the city for daily life, I appreciate that the shape and look of the pack are city-ready and more polished. When I take this on international trips, I look forward to using the hidden theft-proof compartments,” says Porcaro.

Capacity: 13.5”L x 7” W x 14” H / Waterproof : No

• Pros: Easy access pocket in the back, Coat sling, Large side pockets
• Cons: Not super large

Best Customizable : Roam Continental Backpack

Roam Continental Backpack

Anyone who is a fan of customization will appreciate this pick. Buyers can choose the color they want on the front, back, side, and straps to create a bag that is uniquely theirs. This is favorite of Glamour commerce editor Jenifer Calle , who has been using it for years. “It fits enough for weekend trips and vacation travel. I particularly like that the side zippers fit my Owala water bottle and there are plenty of zipper and pockets to hold my wallet, keys, chargers, lip balms, and more” says Glamour’s Calle.

Capacity : 26 L / Waterproof : Water Repellent

• Pros : Customizable; 100-day trial period; soft material; luggage sleeve
• Cons : Expensive

By Andrea Navarro

By Malia Griggs

By Paula Lee

By Talia Abbas

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?

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.

Best Travel Backpack for Gear Heads

Nanuk n-pvd 30l travel backpack.

Most Balanced Travel Backpack

Peak design travel backpack 30l.

Best Travel Backpack for Active Travelers

Cor surf carry-on travel backpack bundle.

Best Travel Backpack for Long-Haul Nomads

Nomatic 40l convertible travel backpack/duffel.

Best Travel Backpack for Minimalists

Camelbak a.t.p. 26 backpack.

Best Travel Backpack Under $60

Matein travel backpack 40l.

Best Rugged Travel Backpack

Yeti crossroads 35l backpack.

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.

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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

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

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.

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.

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.

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!

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 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.

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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.

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The Best Underseat Luggage and Personal-Item Bags

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.

Next to a good carry-on suitcase, the right personal-item bag—what the airlines call any purse, briefcase, or small backpack—is key to having a stress-free flight.

The carry-all at your feet is the best place for your necessities: books, headphones, your phone, a laptop.

Of course, just about any bag, as long as it fits under a seat, can be a personal item, but having a great one is especially important if you’re flying basic economy, which may limit you to a single underseat item.

There’s more to great underseat luggage than its size. In this guide, we go over the features you should look for, including excellent quality of construction, multiple ways to carry the bag, and internal organization options.

From there, we look at different types of personal-item bags that have all those features but are suited to different needs: Some bags are more protective, which is good if you’re traveling with expensive or breakable items. Others are easier to carry, which is helpful if you find larger carry-ons cumbersome. And still others provide more divided compartments and extra pockets for travel necessities. We also offer a few picks to fit different situations.

The research

Why you should trust us, what is a personal-item bag, what makes a good personal-item bag, decide what type of personal-item bag you need, a wheeled bag with reinforced sides: travelpro crew versapack rolling tote, a handsome shoulder bag: waterfield air porter carry-on bag, an adaptable carry-all: the away everywhere bag, a classic tote in nylon: longchamp le pliage tote, the competition.

I’ve covered bags and luggage for Wirecutter since 2014. In that time, I’ve assessed hundreds of bags, ranging from carry-on luggage to travel backpacks to duffle bags . I’ve talked to bag designers, luggage experts, and people who make a life (and sometimes a living) as world travelers. For this article, we also looked at underseat size regulations for the major domestic airlines.

At its most basic, a personal-item bag is a carry-on bag that you can stuff under the seat in front of you while on a flight—which is why it’s sometimes called underseat luggage. Although we wanted to find bags that maximize your available underseat space, airlines generally aren’t as forthcoming with their underseat dimensions as they are with their overhead-bin restrictions. And personal-item sizes, once you do find them, usually differ from one airline to another:

Air Canada : 17 by 13 by 6 inches Alaska : not specified Allegiant : 16 by 15 by 7 inches American : 18 by 14 by 8 inches Breeze : 17 by 13 by 8 inches Delta : 22 by 15 by 9 inches Frontier : 18 by 14 by 8 inches JetBlue : 17 by 13 by 8 inches Southwest : 16.25 by 13.5 by 8 inches Spirit : 18 by 14 by 8 inches United : 17 by 10 by 9 inches

After checking with 12 airlines, we found that the average size of a personal-item bag is roughly 18 by 14 by 8 inches. If your bag isn’t rigid and comes close to these measurements, you’re probably going to be okay stuffing it under the seat in front of you. If you really want to be sure your underseat luggage will fit, the best way is to call ahead and confirm the underseat dimensions for your flight.

Similar to carry-on luggage, underseat luggage is subject to size and shape requirements. However, unlike most of the things people fly with—nearly all of which are precisely designed for airplane use—almost any small bag (your favorite backpack or tote, for instance) can work as a personal item. That said, there are a few details that separate a great personal-item bag from an ordinary one. Beyond it being just the right size, we’ve found that a personal item should have a few key design details to really stand out.

• Durability: A personal-item bag will spend a bunch of time sitting on an airplane floor, an unappealing resting place of shoe grime, spilled liquids, and lost snacks. It’s important that a bag is made of material that’s both resistant to abrasion and easy to clean.
• Organization: As more airlines begin to introduce Basic Economy tickets, which often restrict travelers to personal items only, having a bag that can mimic some of the capacity and organization of a carry-on becomes increasingly important. We prefer a variety of pockets, ideally a separate laptop compartment, and some kind of water-bottle holder.
• Multiple carrying options: Some underseat luggage pieces designed with air travel in mind have sleeves that you can slide over the rails of carry-on luggage handles. But other carrying options, like backpack straps, shoulder straps, or side handles, can also facilitate easy maneuverability.

Lots of luggage manufacturers now sell bags specifically labeled “personal items,” and some of these have useful features that you might not find in your average backpack or tote bag (more on that later). Still, if you have a bag that already works for you, stick with it. If not, check out our picks below, but also look at the recommendations in our guides to laptop backpacks (most of which will fit under a seat), to duffles (ditto), and any of the picks in our guides to packable daypacks  and tote bags . One of those might work just as well for you as a made-for-the-purpose personal item.

For this guide, of those bags specifically designed to be personal items, we looked for models from reputable brands that we’ve recommended in the past, that meet the average underseat dimensions, and that have the traits to make it a great personal-item bag. Then we chose bags that offered different features to suit multiple types of travel scenarios and preferences.

We have a wheeled-bag pick for people who prefer to roll their bag behind them. We have picks that carry like totes. Some of the bags we chose have pass-through straps to loop over the handles of your carry-on luggage . Though this last feature can help you manage the load of a suitcase and a bag, several luggage designers I’ve talked to over the years have said that one of the most common ways to break a carry-on is to rest something too heavy across the telescoping handles. Though they’re able to pull a decent weight, these handles are not designed to support large or heavy loads across their narrow frames. With this in mind, we have options for travelers who prefer pass-through straps as well as those who don’t.

Travelpro Crew VersaPack Rolling Tote

A wheeled bag with reinforced sides.

Designed to fit under an airline seat, this diminutive version of our favorite carry-on luggage rolls along on wheels, has a long extending handle, and its reinforced sides mean it’s tougher than your average fabric tote or backpack.

Buying Options

Who it’s for: The Travelpro Crew VersaPack Rolling Tote’s small squat form sits on two wheels, which makes it a remarkably maneuverable case for anyone who doesn’t prefer (or is unable) to carry their personal item on their shoulder or back. The Crew Tote also mounts well to the handles of a carry-on suitcase with a pass-through strap that’s held tight with Velcro.

Why it’s great for travel: The compact Crew Tote is large enough to carry everything you need for an overnight trip but still falls within the average US airline underseat dimensions. However, if you catch a seat with an underseat power bank or any other kind of obstruction, you won’t be able to wedge this case into place like you might be able to do with a soft bag or backpack. That said, the internal frame, wrapped in nylon fabric similar to soft-sided carry-on luggage, should endure plenty of accidental kicks and scuffs. That reinforcement is particularly useful if you’re packing delicate items, such as cameras, extra computer equipment, or fragile gifts.

We’ve recommended Travelpro Platinum Elite luggage for years in our carry-on and checked suitcases guides because of its durability, dependability, and lifetime warranty (that also protects against airline damage for the first three years). Like those other Travelpro picks, the Crew Tote meets the same standards in materials, build quality, and guarantee.

Pockets and organization: The Crew Tote has one main compartment, as well as a front pocket for small papers and tickets. The main compartment of the Crew Tote is built and organized like a small piece of carry-on luggage, with rolling wheels and internal, zippered organizational compartments, combined with some aspects useful in a personal item, such as a padded sleeve (it holds up to a 14-inch laptop) and a pass-through sleeve. The tote is also compatible with Travelpro’s customizable packing-cube system (video) , which we discuss in the Competition section of our packing cubes guide.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: As with any rolling luggage, you lose a little packing space to the handle and wheel carriage. The rigid shape of the Crew Tote means there’s very little wiggle room if, for whatever reason, it doesn’t fit under the seat in front of you. Despite the inclusion of a small, exterior, flexible pocket—nominally for an umbrella or water bottle—we found that it was too small to be of much use for anything except a very narrow plastic water bottle.

Dimensions: 16.5 by 15.75 by 8.5 inches Weight: 6.7 pounds Capacity: 22.5 liters

Waterfield Air Porter Carry-On Bag

A shoulder bag to organize your tech.

The versatility and toughness of a canvas-and-leather briefcase, with the organization and capacity of a small daypack.

Who it’s for: The Waterfield Air Porter Carry-On Bag is a high-end personal item made for air travel. But the bag truly shines as a tech organizer that still has enough room to also hold a change of clothes. Plus, it’s good-looking enough to carry from the plane to the boardroom without raising an eyebrow.

Why it’s great for travel: The Waterfield Air Porter has a pass-through strap you can attach to a wheeled-suitcase handle, and like our other picks, the bag fits well under an airline seat. In addition to the waterproof waxed-canvas exterior, which makes the bag easy to wipe off if it comes out from under the seat looking dusty or spilled-on, Waterfield bags have waterproof exterior zippers and water-resistant interior lining. The Air Porter is built to look better with age, while also keeping your stuff safe from the elements and stress of travel. In addition to the pass-through strap, the bag has handles (so you can carry it like a briefcase) and a removable shoulder strap, which keeps it from getting caught on things while it’s stowed away.

Waterfield also makes an Air Caddy to hold your tablet and cables. If you don’t already have a tech organizer , I recommend it. The Air Caddy is as well built as the Air Porter, plus it fits nicely inside the bag and matches the overall look. (Unfortunately, Waterfield no longer offers a discount for bundling in an Air Caddy when you buy the Air Porter.)

Pockets and organization: The bag is split into two compartments. One half has a built-in padded sleeve for a 15-inch laptop and two pockets for tech accessories (including wires, headphones, and charging components), both of which are large enough to hold a battery pack for on-the-go charging. The other half is the larger compartment, with plenty of small interior pockets to assist you in organizing things like a few small pieces of clothing or a toiletry kit. The Air Porter also has a front expanding pocket, with magnets that keep the flap closed whether the pocket’s empty or full. It’s a great feature if you often travel with magazines and books. On either side, the Air Porter has two expanding sleeves for holding a travel umbrella and a water bottle.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: The Air Porter is our priciest pick, but considering the quality of the materials and craftsmanship, we think it’s worth the price—this bag will last a lifetime if cared for properly. We do wish it were a little larger so you could take full advantage of the space available at your feet. Waterfield has a 30-day return policy with no restocking fee, but you will have to cover return shipping costs. Additionally, Waterfield offers a lifetime warranty for any product defects.

Dimensions: 15 by 10.25 by 4.5 inches Weight: 2.4 pounds Capacity: 11.25 liters

Away The Everywhere Bag

A hold-all to attach to your carry-on.

This bag slides over the handles of your carry-on for easy transport. It’s made of durable nylon and has plenty of space for in-flight essentials.

Who it’s for: The Away Everywhere Bag feels aggressively designed to offend absolutely no one. It is the true neutral of all personal items, with plenty of carrying options and as many organization options as our other picks. If you want a personal item that’s both simple and well-organized and similar to a weekend duffle bag or large tote (with enough space for a spare outfit, toiletry bag, and a laptop), this is an excellent pick.

Why it’s great for travel: The Everywhere Bag is made of water- and abrasion-resistant nylon, which is perfect for the floor of an airplane. The bag also has a removable shoulder strap, and like most of our other picks, it includes a sleeve for slipping over the handles of a carry-on suitcase, which makes it convenient to carry atop your luggage.

Pockets and organization: The interior features six slim pockets and a sleeve large enough for a 15-inch laptop. At the base of the bag, there’s a zippered waterproof pocket for an umbrella. Outside the bag is a single slim pocket, well-shaped for tickets and important travel documents. Otherwise, the bag opens into a larger interior pocket, which is enough to hold a change of clothes, a toiletry kit, and a book or magazine. If you’re flying for just an overnight trip, this could easily be the only bag you need to carry. (The bag comes in two versions: Original, which has a main zipper that extends partway down the ends of the bag, and New, which has a main zipper that extends all the way down each end of the bag, providing a larger opening.)

Flaws but not dealbreakers: Without any interior separation, all your gear is mashed together along with your computer and tech. There isn’t a special pocket for a water bottle, which means if you carry one, it is dangerously close to everything else.

Dimensions: 16.3 by 7.3 by 10.2 inches Weight : 2.6 pounds Capacity: 20 liters

Longchamp Le Pliage Original L Tote Bag

A stylish, expandable tote.

This tote packs up small when not in use, and the tough nylon is perfect for the floor of an airplane: It’s easy to clean and protects its contents from most scuffs and kicks it might receive on a long flight.

Who it’s for: The Longchamp Le Pliage Tote is great if you need an adaptable personal item that can easily double as a purse or work bag as soon as you leave the plane. Unlike many bags made to be this tough, the Longchamp is handsome and looks good enough to easily transition from travel bag to daily carry.

Why it’s great for travel: The lightweight (especially compared with leather bags) Le Pliage Tote shines as a travel bag because of its simple, packable design and practical materials. The nylon construction wipes down easily if spilled on, and you can fold it down and pack it away if you want to consolidate down to one bag on any leg of your trip.

The Le Pliage’s shoulder strap is made of rolled leather, which our tester said kept the strap from biting into their shoulder as much as unrolled leather straps can. Its main compartment is large enough to hold a laptop, sweatshirt, water bottle, and other assorted travel items. It zips shut, so you won’t lose anything even as you stuff it underneath your seat. The understated shape and design of the bag also blends in nicely with both professional and casual outfits.

Pockets and organization: There is one modest pocket on top for your phone, wallet, and keys. However, we found that even this pocket felt a touch small.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: For a bag that’s great for taking right from the plane to the office, we wished for a laptop compartment, or some other way to separate items beyond the single top pocket. In our testing, we ended up organizing the tote ourselves with bag organizers . The Le Pliage lacks a pass-through strap or slot for attaching to the handles of your carry-on luggage.

Dimensions: 12.25 by 11.75 by 7.5 inches Weight: 0.7 pounds Capacity: 17 liters

Cotopaxi Nazca 24L Travel Pack: The clamshell design of this backpack, a former pick in this guide, was perfect for anyone who liked to separate their gear into individual pockets and compartments. The bag was well made, shaped to fit under just about any airline seat, and warrantied for a lifetime of travel. Sadly, it’s been discontinued.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

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 Duffle Bags

by Kit Dillon

After lugging 34 duffles through airports, to beaches, and on weekend trips, we chose seven bags that’ll carry what you need carried in a range of scenarios.

The Best Travel Strollers

by Elise Czajkowski

After testing seven travel strollers on various trips and excursions, we’re confident that the Uppababy Minu V2 is the one to get.

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.

The Best Travel Backpack

by Geoffrey Morrison

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

The 12 Best Backpacks for Traveling in 2024

More and more travelers are trading in their oversized “wheely” suitcases for the comfort and convenience of backpacks.

However, not all backpacks are created equal. They come in a dizzying array of sizes, shapes, and styles, from minimalistic bags for city day-trippers to heavy-duty versions for backcountry hiking.

So, which backpack is best for you, your budget, and your  unique travel  needs? Keep reading to discover 12 of the best backpacks for traveling this year.

1. Patagonia Black Hole Duffel Bag 55L

The Patagonia Black Hole Duffel Bag 55L is another option with outstanding durability and versatility, making it a top choice for adventurers.

Notable features include rugged weather-resistant construction, reinforced with TPU-film laminate, and durable water-repellent (DWR) coating. This ensures it can withstand even the harshest weather conditions.

Its large 55-liter capacity offers ample space for gear without allowing you to overpack, while multiple carrying options – backpack straps and haul handles – enhance convenience. Additionally, it’s made from recycled materials, which is perfect for the  eco-friendly traveler .

The bag’s hefty price tag might deter budget-conscious buyers; some find the lack of interior organization pockets a drawback. Overall, it’s a high-quality, eco-friendly option for outdoor enthusiasts from another trustworthy brand in the space.

2. Aer Travel Pack 3

The Aer Travel Pack 3 backpack is a popular choice for travel enthusiasts and those with  traveling jobs , offering a blend of exceptional features.

Its best attributes include a sleek minimalist design crafted from durable 1680D Cordura ballistic nylon. The 33-liter capacity offers plenty of space for essentials, with thoughtful pockets and compartments for all your gadgets.

Comfortable and adjustable straps enhance its wearability, while a dedicated shoe compartment helps keep things clean and tidy.

Downsides include its bulkiness when fully packed, which might be inconvenient for some, and premium build quality with a similarly premium price point. Nevertheless, the Aer Travel Pack 3 is a stylish, functional companion for short-term urban travel or anyone seeking a sleek carry-on.

3. Osprey Aether

The Osprey Aether backpack offers exceptional comfort for hikers and travelers alike.

Its adjustable harness and hip belt make it ideal for long treks – or long security lines at the airport – and its internal frame provides excellent load distribution, reducing strain on the back.

Multiple compartments and pockets aid in organization, and the Aether also includes a hydration sleeve for those carrying a water bladder. This backpack is known for its durability with high-quality materials and craftsmanship, and Osprey’s All Mighty Guarantee covers it.

At almost five pounds, its weight may be a drawback for some, as it’s not the lightest option on the list. It’s also relatively expensive compared to other brands. Still, the Aether remains a top choice for avid hikers and travelers seeking a reliable backpack that’s both comfortable and durable.

4. REI Co-op Flash 55 Backpack

The REI Co-op Flash 55 backpack is a versatile and affordable option for budget-conscious travelers.

Standout features include its lightweight design – just three pounds – making it comfortable for extended hikes, the 55-liter capacity that provides ample storage, and numerous pockets for keeping everything organized.

Adjustable shoulder straps and a ventilated back panel offer comfort during long treks. It’s also reasonably priced compared to many competitor options.

Unsurprisingly, for a budget-friendlier backpack, its durability may not match premium brands. Some users also find the frame is less supportive with heavy loads. Despite these drawbacks, the REI Co-op Flash 55 shines as an affordable, lightweight pack that deserves its place on this list of the best  backpacks for travel .

5. Fjällräven Abisko Hike Foldsack

The Fjällräven Abisko Hike Foldsack is a multipurpose, compact daypack for outdoor enthusiasts.

Noteworthy features include its water-resistant G-1000 Eco fabric construction, which ensures longevity and durability. The 15-liter capacity is ideal for day hikes and short urban adventures, with a roll-top closure for easy access and expandability. It’s also super lightweight, making it easier to carry, and the removable foam frame adds support.

However, the smaller size of the foldsack may limit its use for longer trips. Some users may find the minimalist design lacks extra pockets for organization.

Overall, the Fjällräven Abisko Hike Foldsack is a stylish, highly functional daypack for a wide range of  adventures with your friends .

6. Hyperlite Mountain Gear 2400 Southwest Pack

The Hyperlite Mountain Gear 2400 Southwest Pack is a high-performance ultralight backpack designed for serious adventurers.

Its premier features include a waterproof Dyneema Composite Fabric construction. As the name suggests, this makes it highly durable and weather-resistant while remaining lightweight.

With a 40-liter capacity, this backpack is spacious enough for multi-day trips and includes a roll-top closure for easy access. The minimalistic design and robust materials ensure longevity, while adjustable straps enhance comfort on the road.

The premium price tag may deter budget-conscious buyers, and some may miss additional organizational pockets. Nevertheless, this is another of the best backpacks for travelers seeking something lightweight, durable, and suitable for challenging outdoor expeditions.

7. Cotopaxi Allpa 42L

The highly-rated Cotopaxi Allpa 42L backpack stands out with its versatility and stylish, sustainable design.

Noteworthy features include its recycled polyester fabric with a TPU coating for weather resistance, making it suitable for various outdoor activities. The 42-liter capacity offers a useful amount of space for longer trips. And it boasts a clever selection of compartments, including a padded laptop sleeve.

Its harness system and padded waist belt ensure a pleasant carrying experience. The unique, vibrant color schemes make it easy to spot on the luggage carousel.

Downsides? Some travelers may find it somewhat heavy for a carry-on bag with a relatively high price point. All things considered, the Cotopaxi Allpa 42L impresses with its eco-conscious construction and functional design.

8. Gregory Baltoro 75

The Gregory Baltoro 75 backpack is a rugged, top-tier choice for serious backpacking enthusiasts.

Its best features include an adjustable Response A3 suspension system, which offers unparalleled comfort and load support. Its cavernous 75-liter capacity accommodates extended trips and heavy gear, complemented by numerous pockets and access points for efficient organization.

The backpack’s durability and robust materials ensure longevity, while its integrated rain cover adds weather protection.

Its weight and size may be overkill for some hikers/travelers, and it comes with a heavy price tag. Despite these potential drawbacks, the Gregory Baltoro 75 is a comfortable, feature-rich  backpack for anyone tackling extended trips  or tough outdoor expeditions.

9. Tortuga Travel Backpack 30L

The Tortuga Travel Backpack 30L is a versatile carry-on backpack for urban explorers.

Noteworthy features include a sleek, minimalist design that adheres to airline size restrictions. The 30-liter capacity offers ample space for essentials, with thoughtful organization pockets for tech gadgets and accessories.

It’s comfortable to wear with padded shoulder straps and a ventilated back panel. The backpack’s durable materials ensure longevity, while the hideaway shoulder straps add versatility.

However, the smaller size might not suit longer trips, and the lack of a hip belt could limit comfort for some users with heavier loads. The Tortuga Travel Backpack 30L is a compact, stylish choice for city adventures. Tip: travelers seeking slightly more space could consider the 40-liter version.

10. Osprey Transporter Global Carry-On Travel Backpack

The Osprey Transporter Global Carry-On Travel Backpack is another versatile travel companion with many impressive features.

Its most noteworthy attributes include a durable TPU-coated nylon construction, which offers good weather resistance and longevity. Similarly, the 36-liter capacity adheres to global carry-on size regulations, making it perfect for hassle-free air travel.

The backpack’s comfortable harness system includes a padded hip belt and adjustable shoulder straps for a customized fit. It also offers excellent organization with multiple pockets and a padded laptop sleeve.

The lack of wheels might be a drawback for some travelers, and, like most Osprey packs, it isn’t cheap. This would be a robust, attractive, well-organized, and spacious carry-on for frequent flyers.

11. ULA Circuit Backpack

The ULA Circuit backpack is a favorite among thru-hikers and ultralight backpackers.

Its standout features include a spacious 68-liter capacity, ideal for extended wilderness trips. It also has a comfortable, adjustable suspension system to handle heavy loads.

The rugged Cordura fabric ensures durability, while the numerous external and internal pockets facilitate organization. It has a custom-fit option, allowing buyers to tailor the pack to their needs.

On the downside, its three-pound weight may be considered “heavy” in the ultralight community. Some users also find the lack of frame uncomfortable with heavy loads. Nevertheless, the ULA Circuit is a hardwearing, customizable backpack for anyone serious about long-distance treks.

12. Kelty Redwing Tactical Backpack

The Kelty Redwing Tactile backpack is affordable and versatile for outdoor enthusiasts.

Notable features include a rugged 500D Kodra fabric construction, offering both durability and water resistance. Its 45-liter capacity provides ample space for gear, complete with multiple pockets and organization options.

The U-shaped zipper provides easy access to the main compartment, while the padded shoulder straps and ventilated back panel enhance comfort during extended use.

However, some users may find the tactical aesthetics less appealing for urban settings. And the absence of a dedicated laptop compartment could be another drawback for city travelers. Yet its popularity as a well-built, robust pack is undeniable.

The Best Backpacks for Traveling: Which Will You Choose?

Ultimately, picking the best backpacks for you will depend on where you’re going, what you’re doing, and how long you’ll be there.

As we’ve seen, there are high-quality packs for day-trippers, weekend wanders, long-term travelers, and everybody in between. One of the options on this list is sure to be the perfect traveling backpack for you.

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Bugatti Oslo Collection 28 Inch Hard Shell Luggage for Airplanes, Large Polycarbonate Hardside Expandable Suitcase with 360-Degree Spinner Wheels, Retractable Handle, Navy

• TRAVEL BAG FOR LONGER TRIPS: The Oslo 28” suitcase combines outstanding design and premium craftsmanship for individuals traveling more than 7 nights; Travelers will love the durable materials; Couples can share the bag to save space for a shorter trip
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The Oslo Collection is part of Bugatti’s high-end luggage lines. Bringing together outstanding design and a high level of craftsmanship, this set is the ideal companion for purposeful travelers. Built with robust polycarbonate, this lightweight collection is engineered with durability and quality in mind. This set is ready for your next destination. touch of sophistication to your journey—whatever the destination. The Oslo combines outstanding design and premium craftsmanship for short-term travel needs. Ready to start your next adventure? This hard sided luggage with spinner wheels will provide protection when traveling by plane, car and cruise. Sleek, lightweight polycarbonate hardside material resists scratches and tears, providing the ultimate protection for your belongings. Silent Hinomoto Japanese 360° double spinner wheels deliver precise control and smooth rolling so you are always in control of your luggage. It features a zip-release expansion system that provides 20% more storage space, a luxury lined interior with multiple pockets and a wet pocket to keep damp items separate.

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Travelfornoobs

The Complete Packing List for Moscow

Moscow packing list – what you need to bring, how to pack for moscow.

You’ve booked your plane ticket and the time of departure is fast approaching? After the joys of such a decision, comes the question of knowing what to put in your suitcase to go to Moscow. No need to panic, we have prepared a very complete list of the essential things to bring to make sure you don’t miss anything once you are there.

In order to leave no room for unforeseen events, it’s of course preferable to go through this list a few days before leaving rather than the day before departure, as you might miss some items.

Take the time to read and download it in order to identify the things that you absolutely must pack and that you might miss and that could make you lose time and money if you forget them.

You will also need to think about packing according to the type of accommodation you will be staying in, the different modes of transportation you will use during your trip, the climate and the season, as well as the activities you plan to do.

In order to help you prepare your suitcase, this checklist of the essential things to bring in Moscow gathers several categories: clothes, accessories, various objects… It will allow you to have a concrete vision of a typical suitcase for Moscow.

An advice, think of keeping some space in your luggage if you wish to bring back souvenirs or to make some clothing shopping on the spot.

Thanks to this travel list, preparing your bag for Moscow will be a real child’s play and you will just have to enjoy your adventure!

Note : This article contains affiliate links to Amazon.

• Important hings to do before you go
• Essential documents
• Transport essentials
• Backpack & luggage
• Clothing and shoes
• Hygiene & Toiletries
• Photo, Video & High Tech
• Useful accessories
• Medication and first aid kit
• Activities and Useful Links (+ Printable checklist PDF)

1/ Important things to do before you go

 Prepare your travel itinerary  Apply for a visa (if necessary)  Make your vaccinations (if necessary)  Check-up at the doctor / dentist  Take out a travel insurance  Photocopy or scan important documents (passport)  Write down e-mail and useful phone numbers in your address book  Warn your bank about your trip abroad (if necessary)  Book accomodation for your first night ( Do it now before everything is fully booked! Check the best hotels on Booking )  Download offline applications and maps for Maps.me  Download movies offline   Prepare your favorite music playlist  Turn off or turn down the heat of your house  Empty garbage cans  Water the plants   Give a copy of your house/car keys to a family member or friend  Close doors and windows

2/ Essential documents

Even before you buy your plane ticket, remember to check the validity of your passport : it must be valid for at least six months after your return date (for some countries) and have a blank page. Another tip: send your important documents to a secondary email in case you lose them.

   Passport   ID card    Plane or train ticket (have a paper copy just in case)   Reservation documents (e-ticket, train ticket, hotel reservation)   Visa (if necessary)   International driver’s license, if you wish to rent a car   Health insurance card   Travel insurance   Credit card   Cash   Useful numbers in case of emergency   Itinerary and address of your accommodation (hotel / AirBnB / camping)   Vaccination certificate   Diving license, sailing license, etc.   Some business cards with your contact information, email, blog, website

3/ Transport essentials

The little things to have with you at all times during the flight or the trip by train or bus:

 Phone and charger  Book / Magazine / Kindle / Travel Guide  MP3 player   Chewing gum   Pen + notepad  Travel pillow ( my favorite )  Sleep mask ( my favorite )   Earplugs   Snacks / sandwich   Small water bottle  Nasal ointment for dry nose  Sunglasses   Glasses case   Watch   Hand sanitizer   Disposable face mask   Tissues   Motion sickness medication

4/ Backpack & luggage

 Waterproof dry bag ( my favorite )  Handbag   Travel laundry bag ( my favorite )  Carry-on suitcase ( my favorite )  Travel bag ( my favorite )   Luggage tag ( my favorite )   Travel Packing Organizers ( my favorite )   Rain cover for backpack ( my favorite )   Zippered carry-on bag   Shoe bag ( my favorite )   Fanny pack   Lightweight foldable backpack ( my favorite )

5/ Clothing and shoes

  Socks  Underwear (panties, thongs, bras, briefs, boxers…)  Tank tops  Skirt ♀  Dress ♀  Pajamas  T-shirts  Long sleeve shirt ( for her , for him )  Short sleeve shirt ( for her , for him )  Polo shirt ( for her , for him )   Sweatshirt / pullover ( for her , for him )   Jeans   Lightweight pants ( for her , for him )   Money belt ( my favorite )   Shorts   Jogging suit   Jacket / coat   K-way ( for her , for him )   Windbreaker ( for her , for him )  Hat / cap / beanie   Scarf / bandana   Swimsuit   Buff scarf ( my favorite )

For shoes, you will have to choose according to the activities you plan to do:

 Comfortable walking shoes   Shoes for going out (restaurants, bars, clubs…)  Flip-flops (for the beach, showers…) ( for her , for him )  Hiking shoes ( for her , for him )  Sandals ( for her , for him )   Water shoes for walking in water (beaches, waterfalls, rivers…) ( for her , for him )  Light trekking shoes ( for her , for him )  Crocs

6/ Hygiene & Toiletries

 Microfiber towel ( my favorite )   Toilet bag   Portable Travel Bottles ( my favorite )  Toothbrush & toothpaste  Dental floss  Soap   Shampoo   Facial cleanser   Nail clippers   Cotton buds (biodegradable)   Tweezers   Make-up   Deodorant   Comb / Hairbrush   Razor & shaving foam ♂   Biodegradable wipes ( my favorite )   Toilet paper roll   Perfume   Makeup ♀   Contact Lenses   Contact lens product   Pocket mirror

7/ Photo, Video & High Tech

For photographers and videographers:

 Camera  Lens  Memory card  Polarizing filters   ND filter   Extra battery   Charger + cable + plug adapter   Cleaning kit   External hard drive   USB key   Stabilizer   Drone ( my favorite )    Waterproof phone case   Flash   Solar charger ( my favorite )    Gopro ( my favorite )   Waterproof case   Selfie Pole  External battery / Powerbank ( my favorite ) 

Don’t forget:

 Portable speaker  Ipad / Tablet  Laptop PC  External battery  Headphones or noise cancelling headphones ( my favorite )

Useful apps to download before you go to Moscow:

 AirBnB  Booking  Couchsurfing  Flush – Public Toilet Finder (Useful for finding toilets!)  Google Maps  Google Translator  Google Trips  Lonely Planet Guide  LoungeBuddy  Maps.me  Meetup  Tripadvisor  Uber  Whatsapp  XE Currency

8/ Useful accessories

The accessories you will take in your bag for Moscow will depend on your travel style:

  TSA lock ( my favorite )  Headlamp ( my favorite )  Sleeping bag ( my favorite )  Sheets ( my favorite )  Swiss Army knife (not in the hand luggage!) ( my favorite )  Travel clothesline ( my favorite )  Powdered or liquid detergent  Clothes pegs  Spork ( my favorite )  Ziploc bags  Lighter  Folding umbrella ( my favorite )  Toilet paper  Mosquito repellent ( my favorite )   Mosquito net ( my favorite )   Sunscreen cream  Aloe vera gel   Waterproof pouch for smartphone    For hikers : GPS, map, compass, water bottle   Walking stick ( my favorite )   Anti-sweat talcum powder ( my favorite )   Beach towel ( my favorite )   Sawyer water filter ( must-have !)  Pills to purify non-drinking water   Mask, snorkel, fins   Diving accessories (gloves, dive computer, lamp, knife…)

9/ Medication and first aid kit

I suggest that you consult your doctor and dentist before leaving. Beware of unauthorized medication and remember to keep your vaccinations up to date!

If you have a treatment don’t forget to take your personal medication and your prescription if necessary (or medical certificate).

You can buy a first aid kit already prepared ( my favorite ).

  Cotton buds   Tweezers   Round-tipped scissors   Pairs of single-use latex gloves  Bandages   Paracetamol or ibuprofen for pain   Sterile compresses   Disinfectant spray for wounds   Physiological saline solution in pods (wound cleaning)   Condoms and other contraceptives

For longer trips and higher risk locations, we can also add:

  Sterile adhesive skin sutures (steristrips)   Rehydration solutions (in case of dehydration)   Water purification tablets   Water decontamination tablets (Aquatabs or Micropur)   Medication for altitude   Medication for sore throat    Anti-malarial medication   Survival blanket   Tick tweezers   Ointment against itching (antihistamine)   Probiotics for the stomach   Corticosteroid pills and cream   Analgesics (painkillers)   Survival blanket   Cold medicine (decongestant)   Biafine (in case of burns or sunburns)   Broad-spectrum antibiotics without a prescription   Anti-diarrhea tablets (immodium, smecta)

10/ Activities and Useful Links + Printable checklist

You can download the complete travel list in PDF format and print it by clicking here.

Book your hotel in Moscow now on Booking.com

AirBnb : Get a discount for your first booking!

Book now your activities in Moscow on Getyourguide:

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The 12 best clear stadium bags of 2024.

Find compliant options for stadiums, concerts, festivals and more.

The Best Clear Stadium Bags

Courtesy of Truffle

If you're heading to a music festival, concert or sporting event, chances are the venue has a clear bag policy for attendees. The guidelines restrict the types of bags permitted into various venues, including certain theaters, stadiums and festival grounds. These policies are designed to expedite the security process and create a safer environment for all eventgoers.

While restrictions may mean a switch from your go-to purse, the editors at U.S. News researched dozens of review sites, including Amazon, online retailers, travel industry review sites and more, to come up with this selection of the best clear bags.

Best Overall Clear Stadium Bag: May Tree Clear Stadium Tote

• Jump to features and traveler insights ↓

Best Clear Purse: Hoxis Clear Saddle Bag

Best clear wristlet: edraco leopard print bag, best clear crossbody: baggallini clear pocket crossbody bag, best 4.5 x 6.5-inch clear stadium purse: sharplus small clear clutch, best clear stadium backpack: vorspack clear mini backpack, best clear multifunction bag: covax clear messenger bag, best clear fanny pack: veckle clear fanny pack.

• Best Clear Drawstring Bag: Clearworld Drawstring Backpack

Best Clear Convertible Bag: Truffle Clarity Convertible Belt Bag

Best clear nfl tote: foco nfl team logo clear messenger bag, best clear messenger bag: hoxis transparent messenger satchel.

(Note: Prices were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to demand. 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 width by height.)

What size clear bag is stadium approved?

If you're heading to a game or concert at an NFL Stadium, the NFL's clear bag policy requires transparent purses to be 12 x 6 x 12 inches or smaller. Outside of NFL stadiums, the clear bag policies vary by venue and event, so it's important to check the bag policy for any shows, games or festivals you plan to attend prior to arrival.

Dimensions: 12 x 5.5 x 12 inches

What sets it apart: This stadium-compliant tote bag has a large zippered tote compartment, front accessories pocket for your phone, and two mesh side pockets ideal for water or your umbrella (if allowed). Wear it as a crossbody, toss it over your shoulder or use the top handles for easy portability. The bag is available in 11 color options, so you can coordinate your clear stadium tote with your game day gear.

Bag owners appreciate: Sports fans like this tote bag's durability and size, with many stating they can fit everything they need into this bag.

Price: $25.99 or less

Courtesy of Hoxis

Dimensions: 9.4 x 3.5 x 6.7 inches

What sets it apart: For a purse that can easily go from the stadium to a night out, choose this saddle bag design from Hoxis, which combines see-through styling with a detachable chain link shoulder strap and magnetic closure. Trimmed in synthetic leather, this day-to-night design is offered in four colors: black, brown, leopard print or ivory.

Bag owners appreciate: Recent purchasers of this clear bag like the fashionable style and the amount of items that fit inside; many even note they get a lot of compliments on the purse.

Price: $19.90 or less

Dimensions: 9.8 x 0.2 x 6.5 inches

What sets it apart: This stadium-approved waterproof wristlet combines functionality with fashion. The small clear bag comes with a wristlet and removable crossbody strap. Finished with a fun pop of leopard print, this handbag is ready for festivals , concerts, games and more.

Bag owners appreciate: This purse is a top pick of Amazon shoppers because of its zippered top, adjustable strap and cute style, which is large enough to hold your phone, keys, cards and lipstick.

Price: $11.99 or less

Courtesy of Baggallini

Dimensions: 8.5 x 2.5 x 9 inches

What sets it apart: Keep your hands free and ready to cheer with this clear crossbody from Baggallini. Designed by the iconic travel brand – known for its carry-on luggage , among other products – this lightweight clear bag is ready for sporting events, concerts and travel. Offering a 52-inch adjustable crossbody strap, a quick-access phone pocket and a wipeable finish, this stadium-compliant style comes in a choice of three colors, including rainbow and red.

Bag owners appreciate: Fans of this style love the wide adjustable strap and the bag's sturdiness.

Price: $35 or less

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Dimensions: 4.5 x 0.8 x 6.5 inches

If you're going to a venue with strict size requirements, this clear bag packs a punch for its size. Made of eco-friendly plastic, it has three interior card slots, a reinforced bottom and a magnetic closure. For a fashionable touch, the purse has gold accents, along with an adjustable and removable carrying strap for versatility.

Bag owners appreciate: Purchasers like the size of this bag, with many noting it is ideal for music festivals and game days. They like that it is fashionable and roomy enough for a phone, lip gloss and money.

Dimensions: 12 x 6 x 12 inches

What sets it apart: Ideal for stadiums or music festivals, this clear backpack has a large main zippered compartment for personal belongings, an interior mesh compartment for smaller items like cash or credit cards, an interior slash pocket, and two side mesh pockets for a water bottle or umbrella. Constructed with a durable PVC material in a choice of black or gray, this backpack also has adjustable padded straps and reinforced stitching to make this your go-to event bag for a long time.

Bag owners appreciate: Concert and game attendees say this backpack is roomy and comfortable to carry at festivals and anywhere the clear bag policy is enforced.

Price: $16.99 or less

Dimensions: 10 x 4 x 12 inches

What sets it apart: Stay organized while on the go using this clear messenger bag. It has a large zippered main compartment with plenty of space for daytime essentials like sunscreen, wipes, sunglasses and a camera – as well as a cheer towel, T-shirt or merchandise you find along the way. The quick-access front zippered pocket is ideal for your phone, tickets, map or anything you want to have handy. There's also two expandable mesh side pockets. This clear vinyl messenger is available in five color options including purple or white with rainbow accents.

Bag owners appreciate: Users of this bag say it holds more than expected and works well for sporting events, concerts and workplaces.

Price: $19.99 or less

Courtesy of Veckle

Dimensions: 11 x 5.9 x 6.5 inches

What sets it apart: While Lululemon now makes a clear version of the popular Everywhere Belt Bag , we've found a less expensive option in a choice of seven colors, including pink or white with rainbow trim. This style can be worn around your waist, across your chest or over your shoulder. There's a large interior space for personal items and an exterior pocket with a zippered closure, which is ideal for your phone or money.

Bag owners appreciate: Users say the main compartment has plenty of room for your glasses, wallet, keys and more. "I appreciate the safety that the fanny pack provides; all my valuables are right in front of me instead of off to the side," adds Leilani Osmundson , digital producer for travel at U.S. News. "The bag also fits more than I expected and is comfortable to wear, a huge plus during long events."

Best Clear Drawstring Bag: Clearworld Clear Drawstring Bag

Dimensions: 13 x 16 inches

What sets it apart: Providing a hands-free way to carry all your essentials, this clear drawstring bag is made of water-resistant PVC – ideal for those days where the weather turns against you. Toss in your essentials for the day, and perhaps a flannel or sweatshirt for when the sun goes down, and you'll be on your way through security in no time.

Bag owners appreciate: Users of this bag say it works for a variety of events, is reasonably priced and holds up well.

Dimensions: 7.75 x 2 x 5 inches

What sets it apart: For maximum versatility, the convertible belt bag from Truffle can also be worn as a crossbody, or the adjustable satin-finish nylon strap can be removed for a chic clutch handbag – ideal for evenings out. Constructed with environmentally friendly and solvent-free TPU, this clear convertible bag has a magnetic closure and is finished with vegan leather trim. What's more, this eco-conscious clear bag is available in accent colors of black, light gray, white or tan.

Bag owners appreciate: Fans of this style say they love the eco-friendly material and the high quality of this stadium-compliant bag, along with its adjustability.

Price: $98 or less

Courtesy of FOCO

What sets it apart: Show your team pride with this NFL stadium-approved clear bag. The messenger style has a zippered closure, two top handles, and a mesh pocket inside for your cards or ID. Its exterior zippered pocket makes a perfect spot for a phone, tickets or a camera. This stadium-compliant bag will get you through security and into the game venue with ease.

Bag owners appreciate: Fans love this bag's pockets, how much it holds and the choice of NFL team logos you can get.

Price: $32.99 or less

Dimensions: 11.8 x 3.5 x 9 inches

What sets it apart: Featuring a sleek, convertible satchel design, this Hoxis design is large enough to hold a small laptop or iPad as well as notebooks and folders. Ideal for those seeking a clear bag for work or school, this vintage style is constructed from durable PVC and can be worn as a backpack, crossbody or hand-held purse. Available with black or brown synthetic leather trim, this clear messenger bag goes from work to school to the stadium with ease.

Bag owners appreciate: Carriers of the bag like the versatility, including the option to carry it in three different ways because of the removable straps.

Price: $24.90 or less

Frequently Asked Questions

You can pack personal items, such as your phone, medications, sunglasses, wallet and keys. Next, consider what you are going to use throughout the day. Think hand sanitizer or wipes, snacks for the kids (or yourself), lipstick for those selfies, maybe a scrunchie or two to keep your hair from blowing in your face, or perhaps another layer to keep you warm. For outdoor events, consider space for a poncho, sunscreen or an umbrella (if permitted in the venue).

You'll also want to remember that, because your bag is see-through, everything you carry in it will be visible to others. So if you've got very personal items or valuables you don't want everyone to see, a small, card-sized coin purse may be an ideal spot for those. Also keep in mind that the fewer items you have in your bag, the faster you can get through security.

To bring personal necessities into a stadium or event, some venues allow you to bring a small non-clear bag (NFL stadiums permit a small clutch purse or pouch that does not exceed 4.5 x 6.5 inches). Some clear bags have a small pocket built in where you can conceal feminine products, or depending on your wallet you can discreetly place a tampon or pad. You can also place feminine products in a clear plastic bag and tuck the bag in the center of your clear bag with other items placed around it. Don't hide feminine products in a glasses case, as it will typically be opened and searched during the security process.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Rachael Hood is handbag obsessed. She's always searching for the next best bag for every activity and is a frequent concert and sporting event attendee. Hood used her retail merchandising background along with her personal experience and expert research skills to curate this list.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Baseball Stadium Trips
• The Top Fanny Packs and Belt Bags
• The Top Travel Backpacks for Men
• The Top Weekender Bags for Women
• The Top Duffel Bags

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Updated June 18, 2024: This article on the best designer tote bags was updated with fresh product picks for summer and top editor’s choice recommendations, along with tote bag outfit inspiration and trend insights for 2024.

Call them the white T-shirt of accessories — the best designer tote bags are a practical piece of arm candy that you can rely on for everyday function and polish. A winning selection can play as a chic work bag , a durable beach bag , an overnight bag , or a stellar carry-on for jet-setting in one fell swoop, making for a versatile closet staple that’s well worth the investment.

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Tiffany Hsu , Vice President of Womenswear & Kidswear  Fashion  Buying at Mytheresa, recommends focusing your selection on all-occasion versatility to get the best use of your splurge. “Investing in a luxury fashion item with function is important so that it can transition to other aspects of your life,” she adds, noting that a well-worthy tote should seamlessly serve from work days to the weekends.

Designer tote bags that front “quiet luxury” simplicity and whisper the utmost quality are seamless to weave into your wardrobe, while trending silhouettes like East-West bags and oversized styles double-down on the tote bag’s core function with stylish appeal. You can pair your tote with oversized tailored pants and a simple tee as Jennifer Lopez often does for a stylish shopping trip, or take cues from Kaia Gerber and tote along a luxe leather carryall from a workout class to brunch.

Scroll on to see our guide to the best designer tote bags for work, weekend escapes, and more, from durable luxury leather styles to lightweight woven raffia options. Plus, fashion experts share the top designer tote bag trends for 2024, along with helpful tips of what to consider when buying a designer tote.

Top Designer Tote Bags of 2024

• Editor’s Choice : Longchamp Le Pliage Tote
• Editor’s Choice : Altuzarra Large Watermill East-West Straw Tote
• Editor’s Choice : Chanel Caviar Quilted Grand Shopping Tote

Mansur Gavriel Everyday Soft Tote

• Béis The The East to West Tote

Marc Jacobs The Tote Bag

Tory burch mesh tote, naghedi st. barths large tote, cuyana classic easy tote bag, coach rogue bag, freja lafayette tote, khaite the medium lotus tote.

Sign up for  WWD Shop’s newsletter  to get the scoop on the best in beauty and style with in-depth reviews of exciting new releases and buyer’s guides to find the products you need to try ASAP.

Editor’s Choice: Top 3 Designer Tote Bags of 2024

• Longchamp Le Pliage Tote : This durable nylon tote bag has become a gold standard among the wealth designer tote bags. Affordably priced and exceptionally versatile, this practically bottomless tote is lightweight and sturdy, with a stain-resistant construction you can rely on while traveling or commuting on the train to work. Plus, it comes in a rainbow of colorway options that lean into prominent color trends or seamlessly suit your own aesthetic.
• Altuzzara Large Watermill East-West Straw Tote: In the market for a straw tote you can wear beyond the beach? This on-trend East-West tote from Altuzzara fronts the classic style with modern appeal, from black leather caging to luxe braided straps. Refined and minimal, this designer tote bag looks chic in the summer, especially when teamed with a flowing summer dress or linen outfit set.
• Chanel Caviar Quilted Grand Shopping Tote: An all-occasion tote bag is worth investing in, and you’d be hard-pressed to find a style that’s quite as luxe and versatile as this stunner from Chanel. Its timeless design dons modern trends like chain straps and plush leather quilting (of which have come back around thanks to Chanel’s heritage influence) and features special details like shoulder pad straps and interior organization. Wear it for an errand run or to a fancy dinner date — this precious piece will carry you through it all.

Longchamp Le Pliage Tote

If you’re searching for an everyday bag that covers every base from work, travel, and day-to-day hauling, you’ll want choose a classic and durable style that can withstand regular wear and tear, like the cult-favorite Longchamp Le Pliage Tote. Its durable nylon construction, lightweight feel, and timeless appeal is versatile and functional — and it holds more weight than you’d think. It comes in a slew of on-trend colorways, from burgundy to gray-blue and this fresh green, and rings it at an affordable price point that won’t break the bank (or eat into your vacay budget). What testers say: I love this classic so much I’ve gotten six of them over the last few years! Don’t let the thin nylon fabric fool you, these bags are sturdy. Ideal for carry on travel! I knew I was on to something when I counted the number of Longchamp bags on a trip to London in first class, and even more at baggage claim some years ago. I can’t go anywhere in NYC subways, streets, or gym without spotting one or more of the large totes. Some things are universal and this tote is definitely one of the best!” Price upon publication of this article: $145

Altuzarra Large Watermill East/West Straw Tote

What’s summer without a straw bag? Whether you wear it as a beach bag or daytime tote bag to add textural intrigue to your summer outfit , the Altuzarra Large Watermill East/West Straw Tote is chic and sturdy for the long haul. Tightly woven with natural straw and bound by leather caging and straps, it features a wide, open top that allows you to see all its contents in one glance, and secures with a minimal tie closure. It’s large enough to fit a laptop, spare sweater , Stanley Quencher , and then some, with two sturdy braided top handles that add a polishing touch and fit comfortably over the shoulder. Price upon publication of this article: $495

Chanel Caviar Quilted Grand Shopping Tote

A designer tote bag that can do it all is a worthy investment, so you might as well take the plunge on a classic from Chanel that you’ll cherish for decades. The Caviar Quilted Grand Shopping Tote is as luxurious as they come, featuring timeless quilted caviar leather and polished chain-link shoulder straps that come cushioned with shoulder pads for carrying comfort. Lined with satin, its interior splits into two large sections that are large enough for a laptop and spare sandals , and is separated by a central zip pocket for storing more precious goods like your wallet or passport. High-fashion meets high-function with this collector’s piece. Price upon publication of this article: $3,060

The Mansur Gavriel Everyday Soft Tote grants you beautiful bang for your buck. Its exceptional quality makes it a great value for under $800, with supple, lightweight Italian leather to its flexible carryall silhouette. Its buttery finish plays as a minimalist mainstay in the celebrity street style of city slickers like Julianne Moore and Katie Holmes, while remaining just as functional as it is stylish. Consider this a modern Mary Poppins tote: It can fit everything from a work day’s worth of essentials, to workout gear, and flight must-haves like a pillow and blanket. Plus, it comes with an interior pouch for smaller goods like your signature lipstick or a phone charger. Editor testing and review notes : “This leather tote bag has a super minimalist design that lets the high-quality craftsmanship shine through — the construction is gorgeous and although understated, reads luxurious. It has a relaxed silhouette that slouches just a bit when it’s on my shoulder, giving a chic lived-in, heirloom look to it. It’s so spacious that in a pinch, I’ve used this as an overnight bag. ” Price upon publication of this article: $795

Béis The East to West Tote

Great for a getaway or the daily haul, the Béis East to West Tote shines for its versatility and organization. The durable bestseller features all the fixings: One large compartment to fit a laptop, several interior and exterior pockets for small items, spill-resistant lining, and a secure zip closure. It also has a trolley pass-through slot for travel, as well as a convenient key leash and slot for your water bottle. You can wear it three ways as a top handle bag, crossbody bag , or shoulder bag , thanks to its removable and adjustable shoulder strap. What testers say : “I love this bag! It’s very big and holds a lot of stuff when traveling. It’s also great as a toddler mom who has a lot of items to carry — I love the three different carrying options. Fits perfectly even when packed full under the seat in the airplane. 100% would recommend. It’s also obviously adorable..” Price upon publication of this article: $108

Large-and-in-charge red totes have been all over the runway, and this cult-favorite iteration from Marc Jacobs happens to come in a bold cherry red for summer. The traditional leather style is spacious and structured for work or travel, with a removable and adjustable crossbody strap and a zipper closure that opens to one main compartment with a separate zippered back. If you have yet to jump on this bags hype — which amounts to over 50 million views and searches on TikTok — consider this your cue. What testers say: “Love this bag! It is cute and easy to carry. Love the shine, and it goes from every day to out to dinner in a blink! Fashionable and versatility make this bag a win.” Price upon publish date of this article:  $425

In the hotter months, mesh makes for an excellent tote bag material because it’s durable, lightweight, and incredibly easy to clean — especially as a beach tote when sand inevitably creeps its way in. This minimalist tote from Tory Burch comes right off the runway and is available in prominent colors trends for 2024, like pale yellow and rich green hues. It serves as a compact, featherweight carrier with refined touches like leather trimmed-tulle to hold a healthy haul. What testers say : “This bag immediately caught my eye due to the extremely sleek silhouette and minimalistic branding details. Not only is the quality amazing but it is so chic!!! I have worn this every day since I have received and is the perfect beach or pool bag. The tote comfortably fits my book, cosmetics, sunglasses, wallet, etc. This is definitely a product I will use for years and just purchased another to gift my roommate for her birthday. A must buy!!!” Price upon publication of this article: $248

The Naghedi St. Barths Large Tote turns the trendy woven, basket bag design on its head with handwoven construction of strong and sturdy neoprene. It forwards the same relaxed attitude for summer as you’d find in a straw tote but is far more forgivable, with stain and spill resistant fabrication, a lightweight feel, and stretchy top handles that fit snug upon the shoulder. Its large and open design spreads wide from the top, allowing you to quickly fish out your goods, while a removable crossbody strap gives you the option of hauling it hands-free. Editor testing and review notes:  “I’m always amazed by how much this tote bag can carry — I’ll fill it to the brim with heavy items like a full water bottle, an extra pair of shoes, and my overstuffed makeup bag when I’m traveling. The strap stretches slightly when the bag is full; this makes it easy to slip on the shoulder and also creates a bouncy, buoyant feeling that makes what you’re carrying feel lighter than it would in a standard canvas tote.” Price upon publication of this article: $340

Cuyana’s leather goods have captured the hearts of minimalist dressers worldwide. Not only are its designs crafted from the finest Italian leather that wears well over time and gets better with age, but they’re also timeless, allowing you to wear them over and over again without hesitation. This minimalist-friendly design is sleek and classic. It has a double handle for easy carrying and a spacious interior to store all of your essentials for work or the weekend — it can house all your tech, making it a top laptop bag . The bag is offered in five core colors ranging from black to grey and four seasonal hues like butter yellow and burnt orange, so there’s an array of options to suit anyone’s taste. What testers say : “This is my fourth Easy Tote! I love it so much. I get different colors for the seasons. I like this tote because it wears really well and always looks great. It holds a ton and its minimalist design compliments anything.” Price upon publish date of this article:  $268

Among Freja’s bestselling tote selection is the large Lafayette East-to-West style tote. Its softly structured silhouette spans wide for fitting large items (including 16-inch laptops), with a sturdy base for secure storage and pinched top handles that comfortably rest atop the shoulders. It also comes chock-full with thoughtful details, like four roomy pockets, a key leash, and soft vegan microsuede lining. Its chic design aptly doubles as a purse you can wear out on the town — take your pick from five rich and versatile neutral colorways in luxe vegan leather that flash shiny gold hardware. Price upon publication of this article: $309

Coach has been trailblazing sustainable leather bag construction over the past several seasons, and the Rogue tote is a shining example of the brand’s eco-conscious, fashionable designs. Made of regenerative pebble leather that’s durable enough for decades-worth of wear, it features accordion-style compartments inside that’ll have any organization lover jumping for joy. One large zip compartment comes flanked by two expandable side wells, containing credit card slots and small magnetic snap pockets to hold items like your headphones and keys. The transitional crossbody bag also dons a zip top closure that keeps everything secure, while it stands safe and stable upon four protective metal feet. What testers say : “The Rogue bags are my favorite. All of sizes too. The three compartments are perfect for keeping your items organized, the handles plus the straps make it a breeze to carry, and there’s a size for all occasions. It’s a gorgeous style of bag.” Price upon publication of this article: $850

Khaite’s scarf-inspired Lotus Tote has swiftly become a modern classic in fashion circles. “The textured, buttery suede on this bag makes for the lushest, everyday tote,” says Hsu. Its sculptural silhouette and expandable capabilities make this a stellar choice for those looking to stray from the ordinary tote bag, without skimping on essential function. It leans into this season’s boho-chic resurgence with this warm Caramel Suede colorway that omits fringe for more clean lines, with a structured round base and a bonus pouch for storing small items. “[It’s a] chic alternative to everyday black that can elevate any outfit,” adds Hsu. Price upon publication of this article: $1,980

Designer Tote Bag Trends for 2024

For summer 2024, “micro mini bags are being traded in for more practical oversized styles,” says Noelle Sciacca , Senior Fashion Lead at The Real Real. “They need large tote bags that can carry their day-to-day necessities.” Fashion-forward brands have taken note of the shifting landscape and are now offering bags that rethink proportions for a more elevated and practical look and feel. Sciacca cites Louis Vuitton’s Onthego carryall and Bottega Veneta’s Intrecciato tote as recent designer handbag examples.

Today’s totes feature unexpected details, whether it’s an abstract shape, sustainable materials, or colorful finishes. “Quiet luxury” trends are bypassing logo-heavy prints for solid colorways done in high-quality materials, while we’re seeing architectural silhouettes and bold proportions at The Row , Loewe , and Victoria Beckham . Oversized and overstuffed totes lean into more personalized sentiments, too, à la Jane Birkin’s enduring signature , as seen in dangling charms and overflowing contents on the 2024 runways at Coach , Bottega Veneta , Balenciaga , and Miu Miu . As for color trends , muted tones and pastels are replacing neutrals, from rich reds to mossy greens, and pastels like nearly nude peach fuzz, butter yellow, and cornflower blue.

Vintage tote bags are also gaining traction. “Shoppers are looking to pre-owned vintage tote bags to make smart investments.” Sciacca says. “Classic styles,” — like the Chanel Caviar Quilted Grand Shopping Tote — “have the highest resale values of any bags on the secondhand market; both are great examples of luxury handbags that regularly sell for or above current retail prices. Adding, “Louis Vuitton’s Neverfull tote continues to be a bestselling, volume-driving style from the brand, reselling for over 80% of its original retail price, on average.”

Designer Tote Bag Outfit Ideas

For the office.

Shown with : J.Crew Elena Shirtdress ($168), Larroudé Ines Pump In Black Leather ($330), Shashi Grace Earrings ($79), Chanel Rouge Coco Flash in Ultime ($45)

For Weekend Errands

Shown with: Ganni Poplin Front-Tie Peplum Blouse with Puffed-Sleeves ($185), Toteme High-Rise Tapered Organic Jeans ($360), Dolce Vita Hardi Slingback Penny Loafers ($130)

Shown with : Gap 100% Linen Boyfriend Shirt (69.96), Aritzia The Effortless Pant in Linen (148), Le Specs Outta Love Sunglasses ($65), adidas SL 72 OG Shoes ($100)

What to Look for In the Best Designer Tote Bags

• Size: “When searching for your ideal designer tote, first identify what you will use it for,” Sciacca says. “Are you hoping this will carry your laptop back and forth between the office and home? If so, check the listed dimensions to ensure they will fit your devices. Will this tote double as a luxe gym bag? If the answer is yes, look for a style with extra pockets to separate pre-workout and post- workout clothes , sneakers , socks, etc.,” Sciacca adds. If you’re traveling, an oversized tote will be necessary to pack in-flight essentials and maybe even clothes for the weekend getaway.
• Material: When it comes to handbags, material is fundamental to consider. Even the most beautiful totes will fall short if crafted with the wrong textures like polyester. Instead, look for sturdy, durable, and easy-to-style materials like leather, Gramaccioni tells WWD. Leather stands the test of time and “holds up to everyday wear and tear,” she adds. Canvas is also a long-lasting and flexible fabric that can be the right choice for those who see heavy daily use.
• Color: Have you ever made an impulsive purchase because the bag you were interested in came in a color you loved, only to get home and realize it doesn’t go with your clothes? That’s why considering the color of your tote bag — especially if it’s an investment — is essential. First, take the time to go through your wardrobe and identify the colors you wear the most. “If you want this closet staple to blend in with your existing wardrobe seamlessly, opt for a neutral color that will pair well with everything like a black patent Bottega tote,” Sciacca says. “If you’re planning for your carryall to be your go-to statement piece, search for bolder colors and prints like a bright blue Balenciaga A4 tote or the Fendi Vertigo bag.”

How to Clean a Designer Tote Bag

Before cleaning any type of tote bag, empty the bag of all items and double-check the tag for washing instructions. Once you’re ready to wash, you can take a few different methods depending on what fabric your bag is made from.

• Leather tote bags: Leather handbags are fairly easy to clean if you use a mild leather soap and a barely damp cloth. After cleaning, apply a leather conditioner to help the bag remain flexible and resistant to stains. Often, at-home treatments work for leather bags; however, if you own a very expensive, delicate leather tote, we recommend taking it to a leather specialist for professional treatment.
• Suede tote bags: Suede tote bags can be the hardest to clean because often, suede can get discolored with water. So, if you want to remove any markings, use a white dry cloth and gently rub your bag to remove surface marks. If there is a stain, use a pencil eraser or cleaning eraser. 
• Canvas tote bags: When it comes to canvas, you want to start on a small area of the bag to ensure the whole thing won’t get damaged. Start with a soft washcloth and warm water: If the stain still isn’t coming out, then you can use a toothbrush and mild soap, but make sure not to scrub too hard. You can also wash it by hand with a mild detergent or another cleaning solution like talcum powder or cornstarch.
• Nylon tote bags: If your bag is nylon, you’ll clean it differently than leather or suede. Since nylon is water-resistant, gently hand-wash it with mild soap, rinse it with water, and let it air dry.

How We Selected the Best Designer Tote Bags

Since 1910, WWD — often referred to as “the fashion bible” — has been the leading industry voice of authority for senior executives in the global women’s and men’s fashion, retail and beauty communities, while also informing the consumer media that cover the market. Today, WWD’s breaking news and trend coverage continues to be a trustworthy resource for both fashion insiders and consumers alike. Our shopping editors continue to uphold WWD’s editorial standards and values with quality, expert-backed product selections.

To find the best designer tote bags on the market, we assessed several different factors and design elements of every tote bag on this list, including the style, straps, interior features, and materials used, plus personal testing and market research. To narrow our selections of tote bags for women, we looked to online consumer reviews and three interviewed designer bag experts. Additionally, we looked for tote bags that cater to all occasions — for travel, everyday wear, and nights out. For the third update to the best designer tote bags for summer 2024, we performed another round of research and testing to ensure our readers are up to date on the latest and greatest finds in the women’s handbag market. You’ll find a price range that stems from affordable, budget-friendly finds from brands like Longchamp to high-end purse brands like Chanel that have become tried-and-true favorites in the space.  Learn more about us here.

Meet the Experts

Marta Gramaccioni is Head of Buying at Luisaviaroma. She has extensive knowledge in the luxury fashion space and is always keeping up with what well-established, and emerging designers are creating for the seasons ahead so that she can offer timeless and fashion-forward pieces, including outwear, bottoms, footwear, and more, to all types of Luisaviaroma shoppers.

Noelle Sciacca is the Senior Fashion Lead at The Real Real. Previously she’s held positions at Mashable and Hearst, reporting on fashion and its latest accessories, including jewelry and designer handbags, and contributing to celebrity editorial photoshoots.

Meet the Author

Olivia Cigliano  is a Commerce Writer & Producer at Footwear News and WWD where she writes shopping content across fashion, beauty, footwear, TikTok style trends, and more. Cigliano received her bachelor’s degree in journalism from Emerson College, and her byline can be found in publications including Elite Daily and CR Fashion Book. She is currently based in New York City. She updated this story in June, 2024 with new editor-recommended products and additional insight on tote bag trends for summer 2024.

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The ultimate guide to backpacking Russia

Hostelworld Blog | Posted on August 16, 2019 |

Sipping sour beetroot soup in a canteen that’s barely changed since Soviet times. Watching the sun rise over the vast emptiness of the Siberian plains. Plunging into a crystalline mountain lake before warming up in a rickety sauna….

Backpacking in Russia is an epic adventure that will challenge, excite and amaze you in equal measure. The biggest country on earth is a bewildering, breathtaking mass of dense taiga forests, arctic tundra, snow-capped mountains, empty desert and austere Soviet cities defined by identical concrete tower blocks. It’s a place where babushkas prepare tea in traditional samovars as snow falls outside, while several thousand miles away Moscow’s bright young things head out for a night out on the town. Where Buryat shaman carry out secret rites in the sacred caves of Olkhon Island, and villages that were decimated by plague in the 18th century stand untouched, almost as if their occupants were sleeping.

The past and the future overlap here, with eye-wateringly elaborate palaces stamped with the hammer and sickle of Communism and enormous statues of Lenin towering over commuters on Moscow’s metro. And of course, anyone who loves nature will be humbled and wowed by the wilds of Siberia, where the only sound at night is the howling of grey wolves and villages are so remote that their residents are cut off from the outside world for six months every year.

So what are you waiting for? Time to set out on your very own Russian adventure. Get inspired and make the most of your trip with our complete guide to backpacking Russia.

📷  @nikolayv

Jump straight to:

• The best time to visit Russia

Russia visa

Travelling around russia, accommodation in russia, russia itinerary, cost of backpacking russia, best places to visit in russia, what to eat and drink in russia, russian culture and people, travel advice for russia, best time to visit russia.

The best time to visit Russia depends on what sort of holiday you’re looking for.

Fancy zooming down the Alpine slopes of Rosa Khutor, the best ski resort in the country? Opt for November to March, when the snow is at its best and the weather is generally sunny with light winds.

If the idea of partying until dawn in Sochi’s gleaming night clubs before relieving the hangover with a swim in the Black Sea sounds appealing, Russia’s summer is the time to go. This season typically lasts from June to August.

Russia seasons

As the biggest country on earth, it’s no surprise that Russia’s seasons vary significantly depending on where you go.

In general, the high season for travelling in Russia is May to October. The snow has melted to reveal manicured gardens outside the palaces, and forests filled with lumbering bears become a mecca for hiking. The sandy shores of lakes such as Turgoyak come into their own in this season, with locals sunning themselves and gathering at waterfront cafes to feast on locally-caught fish and potato salad drenched in mayonnaise.

However, in certain parts of Siberia temperatures can still hover around freezing even in the summer months. If you want to guarantee warmer weather here, it’s best to stick to August. There’s no denying that Siberia has a certain charm in winter though, when snow covers its rolling plains in a thick mantle and locals seek shelter in steamy banyas (saunas).

Best time to visit St Petersburg

The weather in St Petersburg can be freezing, so June to October are the most comfortable for sightseeing. During these months, the sun barely sets at all due to the city’s location near the Arctic Circle. The annual White Nights Festival (generally held around mid-July) sees many of the city’s key attractions open 24 hours, as well as a special programme of ballets and classical concerts at the magnificent Mariinsky theatre. The winter months of November to March are when prices and crowds plummet… just remember your winter coat!

Best time to visit Moscow

It’s no secret that Moscow is expensive, so to combine fewer crowds with decent weather and lower prices, it’s generally best to visit in spring (April and May) and early Autumn (September). During these months the temperature hovers in double figures, the city’s many fountains spurt back to life and outdoor celebrations such as May Day (1 May) and Victory Day (9 May) draw colourful parades to the streets.

📷  @dotzero

We’re not gonna lie… Russian visas are not the easiest or simplest things to get hold of. But persevere and you’ll find it is well worth the effort. Think of it as a little initiation ceremony…

There are two types of tourist visa available. Single entry, valid up to 30 days, and double entry, also valid for 30 days, and necessary if you’re planning on hopping over any borders during your trip.

For a tourist visa to Russia, you must have confirmed accommodation for every night of your stay in the country and provide evidence of booking when you apply. This is generally in the form of a visa support letter (also known as a letter of invitation), which you can request directly from your hotel and costs around £20-£40. This can also be issued by a friend or family member who is a Russian citizen and will be hosting you for your stay.

However, once you’re actually there you’re not bound by this information and can easily cancel the accommodation if you end up changing your plans. You can also apply for a visa support letter through Russia Support , who can turn them around within a few hours.

A new ruling in 2014 declared that every applicant who is a UK citizen must visit the Russian Consulate in London to have their fingerprints scanned before a visa can be granted. Given that they keep opening hours like a small shop in a country village (9 – 1pm Monday to Friday), this is not the easiest thing to accomplish. However, you can now book an appointment for between 8.30-9am for an extra fee.

In terms of the paperwork, you’ll need:

• Your original passport with at least 2 blank visa-designated pages (passport must be valid for at least 6 months after intended departure date from Russia).
• Two copies of your Russian visa application form, completed and signed.
• One passport-size photo signed on the back.
• Confirmation of your hotel arrangements from an authorised Russian travel company, or directly from the Russian hotel, showing a reference number and confirmation number for the visa.

To find out more about Russia visa requirements, and to apply, check out Visit Russia .

📷  @alinnnaaaa

Russia’s landscape varies from still-smouldering volcanoes in the Kamchatka to the vast taiga forests that cover the Siberian plains and the snowy peaks of the Caucasus Mountains. With a total area of 17.1 million kilometres squared to explore and very little infrastructure, you’ll begin to understand why careful planning is key to making the most of your trip.

Russia by car

If you’re the adventurous type and keen to strike out of the major cities, seeing Russia by car is a great way to explore at your own pace and in comfort (heating and cushioned seats are luxuries many local buses don’t have.). Most car rental agencies require you to be 21 years old and have at least one year of driving experience. Reliable companies with lots of offices throughout the country include Avis ,  Sixt , and Europcar .

When the distances are this big you don’t want to be hitting the open road without a GPS, and it’s also worth remembering that most of the signs will be in the Cyrillic alphabet. It is completely cryptic to the uninitiated, so you’ll need to print out the name of cities and key landmarks so you can recognise their names in case there’s no internet in the area. Alternatively, load routes before you go on apps such as Yandex Maps .

Transport in cities in Russia

If you’re just planning on visiting Moscow and St. Petersburg, it isn’t really worth hiring a car. Both cities have excellent public transport which is very cheap. In fact, the Russian metro ’s nickname is ‘the people’s palace’, because it was designed to show off the wealth of the Soviet Empire. Many stations have huge communist statues, marble arcades and glittering chandeliers. Be sure to check out Komsomolskaya and Novoslobodskaya, which has 32 stained glass panels designed by famous Soviet artist Pavel Korin.

The best way to get around Moscow is with a Troika card, which you can rent in any metro kiosk. The card is free, but you have to leave 50 rubles (£0.60) as a deposit. After this, the city is your oyster; it works for the metro, as well as Moscow’s Central Ring, buses, trams and trolley buses.

The St.Petersburg metro is the deepest in the world, so if you’re scared of heights hold on tight and close your eyes when you board the escalator! It still uses a token system, meaning you buy tokens (“zheton”) from the cashier in every station and use these to open the barriers.

Russia by train

Russia has one of the biggest rail networks in the world, with almost every town in the country connected. Although more time consuming, discovering Russia by train is far more interesting than catching an internal flight, allowing you to see snatches of rural life in tiny villages and stunning landscapes flash by. Many locals use trains to get around and it’s a great way to have some authentic interactions, whether that be sharing snacks like flavoured croutons or playing cards with the other passengers in your carriage.

Russian trains are often slow but tend to have comfortable sleeping berths and are incredibly prompt. Arrive even a minute late and you’ll be left on the platform. Generally speaking, the higher the homep (number) of a train, the slower it is. High-speed trains are numbered 151 through 198.

Like aeroplanes, Russian trains have classes and it’s not always obvious which is best. SV is short for spalny vagon, or sleeping wagon. These compartments are the same size as 2nd class but have only two berths rather than four, and are typically double the price. If you’re not short on cash and are travelling in a couple this might be the most romantic option, but you will miss out on meeting fellow passengers.

Second class is called kupeyny – commonly shortened to kupe – and this is the standard accommodation for a long distance journey. Each compartment has four bunks and a fold down table, making it great for groups. However, if you’re travelling solo or with one other person, bear in mind that you’ll be sharing very intimate conditions with strangers, sometimes for days at a time. The sorts of people who travel in second class are often Russian men on business trips, who are unfailingly keen to crack open the vodka along the way. This could be a bonus – or the opposite – depending on your point of view!

A platskartny carriage, or third class, is a dorm carriage sleeping 54. Despite the lack of privacy, platskart can be a great way to go, particularly in summer when the lack of compartment walls means they don’t become as stuffy as a kupe . They’re great for meeting ordinary Russians and can feel safer than second class, as there are always plenty of people around to keep an eye on your stuff and intervene if you have any problems. Another bonus is that tickets cost half to two-thirds the price of a 2nd-class berth.

For more information, check out the Russian Railway website .

📷  @ischelkanov

From checking into a former Soviet-era hotel given a luxurious makeover, to bedding down in a simple wooden cabin on an island in a lake, accommodation in Russia is as varied as the country’s landscape. Take your pick with our handy guide on where to stay in Russia.

Hostels in Russia

Russia may not be the most popular stop on the backpacker trail, but it has great value youth hostels in all major cities. Most of them are quirky and are typically lived in by long-staying guests, so have a warm, community feel.

Godzillas is one of the best-known in Moscow and boasts an enviable location a short stroll from both Tsvetnoi Bulvar (three minutes away) and Tverskaya/Pushkinskaya (ten minutes away) metro stations. It sits in a pre-revolution historic building and will set you back no more than around £8 per night. Sold!  Grant Hostel is just a few minutes’ walk from Red Square and spotlessly clean, while Netizen Moscow Rimskaya has its own sushi bar!

📷 Soul Kitchen

Now for the best of the rest… If sweeping views over the city of Vladivostok sounds like a bit of you, check in to Tiger Hostel and enjoy a  welcoming, family feel and sun-trapping terrace. Plenty of desk space and a creative atmosphere make Irkutsk’s Rolling Stones Hostel a great  base for digital nomads, while Sky Hostel in Yekaterinburg is popular with a slightly more mature crowd.

Need more inspiration? Check out our full list of hostels in Russia .

Whether you dream of strolling in the shadow of onion-shaped cathedral domes, sunning yourself on a sandy shore or trekking through the taiga forests on the wild Mongolian border, Russia really does have a holiday to suit every traveller. Whet your appetite with our ultimate Russia itineraries.

Two weeks in Russia itinerary

Days 1- 3 – St Petersburg : Watch the elaborate columns of the Hermitage slide past from a canal cruise, see the ballet beneath a canopy of crystal chandeliers at the Mariinsky and Mikhailovsky Theatres and stroll through the Catherine Palace and Park, the decadent home of Catherine the Great.

Day 4 – Veliky Novgorod : Founded in 859, this sleepy town is scattered with interesting churches and monasteries. Check out Yuriev Monastery, St. Sophia Cathedral, and Novgorod Kremlin, which is the oldest in Russia.

Days 5-7 – Moscow: Don your best outfit to visit the fashion capital of the country, where designer boutiques jostle for space with iconic sites such as the Red Square, St.Basil’s Cathedral and Moscow Kremlin.

Days 8-9 – Kazan: Follow the sound of the call to prayer to Kazan, home to the largest Muslim population in Russia and a fascinating blend of Asian and European cultures. Don’t forget to check out the Millennium Park stadium, which hosted several games in the FIFA World Cup 2018.

Kazan  📷  @betagamaa

Days 10-12 – Sochi: – A glitterball city caught between the twinkling blue of the Black Sea and the subtropical greenery of the Agura Valley, Sochi pulses to the bass of hundreds of waterfront clubs and bars in summer. The botanical garden is a calm haven scented with magnolia trees.

Day 13 – Sochi – St. Petersburg (train or flight): To travel the 2339km between the cities you can either take an overnight train or a three-hour flight. The Severnaya Palmira train has showers, air conditioning and Wi-Fi, as well as the usual sleeping bunks.

Day 14 – St. Petersburg: See the sun sink below the historic skyline with a rooftop tour of the city.  Panoramic Roof use an anti-aircraft defense tower on Ligovsky Avenue as their base.

Moscow itinerary

Day 1: Spend your first day in Moscow marvelling at its most iconic sites. Red Square is the heart of the city, while St Basil’s cathedral looks like a clutch of brightly-coloured ice cream cones. Lenin’s Mausoleum is a must-visit and GUM department store is a wonderland of designer labels and shops that look like they’ve barely changed since it opened in 1893. Don’t forget to check out the historic toilets! Spend the rest of your day discovering The Kremlin’s many treasures, including an exquisite collection of Faberge eggs.

Day 2: Catch the Moscow metro, which is so magnificent it feels like an underground art gallery, to Gorky Park, an enormous swathe of green complete with communal bean bags, fountains and even a city beach. Check out the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art before strolling along the river to the Central House of Artists. A little further along, Red October Factory on Bolotny Island is a creative hub that’s loved by local freelancers and filled with cool cafe spaces, as well as bars after dark.

Day 3: Start your day with a backstage tour of the Bolshoi Theatre, home to arguably the most famous ballet company in the world. Go shopping in the Old Arbat quarter, before visiting the homes of Alexander Pushkin and Nikolai Gogol, two of Russia’s greatest writers. In the evening, stroll through Patriarch’s Ponds, an atmospheric quarter made famous in Mikhail Bulgakov’s seminal novel The Master and Margarita . Slurp borshch and listen to live fiddle music in Cafe Margarita, an intimate eatery lined with books.

📷  @parulava

St Petersburg itinerary

Day 1 : Hit the ground running with a visit to the Winter Palace and the area around it. Start at the Peter and Paul Cathedral (the final resting place of the Russian tsars), before heading to Palace Square and the Hermitage Museum. Stroll through the Summer Garden, stopping off to marvel at the Church of Our Savior on Spilled Blood and Kazan Cathedral on the way, before ending up at one of Nevsky Prospekt’s many restaurants.

📷  @orryjourney

Day 2: You’ll need a few hours to explore St. Isaac’s Cathedral (closed on Wednesdays), a lavish structure with a viewing platform hidden in its enormous golden dome which offers 360-degree views of the city centre. Nearby, the whimsical Museum of Emotions is a new immersive art experience and you can’t miss a picture with the Bronze Horseman. This monument was a gift to Peter I from Catherine II and legend has it that as long as it is unharmed, an enemy can’t conquer the city. Finish with a stroll along the Neva river, watching the bridges open and close and soaking up the cosmopolitan vibe.

Day 3: Catch a boat to Peterhof, a romantic palace famed for its fountains and verdant gardens in summer. Equally lavish and perhaps better suited to winter is the Catherine Palace, located in the historic town of Pushkin, which can be reached easily by train from Vitebsky Railway Station. This was Catherine the Great’s love nest and famously has a reconstructed ballroom made entirely of amber. (The original amber was looted by the Nazis and has mysteriously vanished.)

Russia backpacking itinerary

This three-week Russia backpacking itinerary includes Russia’s most famous cities, the remote wilds of the Kola Peninsula, the historic towns of the Golden Ring and plenty of overnight trains which will sweep you through tiny villages that look like they’ve sprung from a Chekhov novel.

Days 1-4 – St. Petersburg : Tread lightly around the tombs of the last Russian tsars, picture the magnificence of the imperial court at The Hermitage and reach for your camera every five minutes in one of the prettiest European cities.

Day 5 – St Petersburg/overnight train : Board the train from Ladozhskiy Vokzal and travel 15 hours towards the arctic circle and the gateway to the Solovki Islands.

Days 6-9 – Solovetsky Islands: From Kem, take a ferry to the Solovetsky Islands (or Solovki as they’re known to locals), an archipelago in the White Sea. These haunting isles are scattered with 15th century monasteries and the remains of gulags, prisons built during the Soviet era to house political prisoners. Spot beluga whales from the shore, hike in the forests and ponder over remains such as the mysterious labyrinths which have unfurled on Bolshoy Zayatsky Island for more than 2,500 years.

Day 10 – Solovetsky Islands/overnight train: Catch the train 12 hours to Murmansk, the world’s largest Arctic city.

Day 11 – Murmansk : If you’re there in winter, head to the ice bather’s hut to see hardy locals plunging into Lake Semyonovskoe through a hole in the ice. Between late November and mid-January, the northern lights regularly cast their flow over the snow-covered landscape, while between May and July the Midnight Sun transforms it with a peachy glow.

Day 12 – Teriberka/Lovozero : Drive through the tundra to Teriberka (2.5 hours). This largely abandoned Soviet fishing town on the Barents Sea Coast was where Andrey Zvyagintsev’s Golden Globe winning film Leviathan was shot in 2014. Picnic amid the rusting hulls of abandoned boats and dip your toe in the world’s most northern ocean. Drive on to Lovozero, the last stronghold of the Russian Sami people, and spend the night at a humble home stay.

Day 13 – Lovozero/Lake Seydozero:   Drive to Revda (about 1 hour) and from there take the spectacular hike over the Lovozyorskiye Tundry Mountains (8 hours) until you reach Lake Seydozero, which the Sami people believe to be holy. Wild camp overnight.

📷  @kotomanov

Day 14 – Lake Seydozero: Spend the day exploring the breathtaking forests around Lake Seydozero. Camp overnight.

Day 15 – Lake Seydozero/Lovozero : Trek back to Revda and spend the night in Lovozero.

Days 16-17 – Lovozero/Murmansk/overnight train : Drive two hours back to Murmansk. Catch the Arktika Train to Moscow (36 hours). The journey takes you through the Republic of Karelia with its 60,000 lakes, as well as on to the shores of Lake Ladoga, the largest in Europe.

Days 18 -19 – Moscow : Take yourself on a cultural tour of Moscow, including magnificent imperial-era buildings such as the Kremlin and St.Basil’s cathedral, and fascinating Soviet history.

Day 20 – Yaroslavl: Take the train from Moscow to Yaroslavl, one of Russia’s famed “Golden Ring” of former ancient capitals. This historic gem crouches on the banks of the Volga River and boasts buildings that date back to the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries. Spend the night.

Day 21 – Moscow : Chill in one of Moscow’s many buzzing parks and take in a gallery or two along the river.

Trans-Siberia railway itinerary

An epic journey spanning 9,259km and eight time zones, the Trans-Siberian railway is a unique experience that belongs on every adventurer’s bucket list. Although it is known as the longest train journey in the world, it’s actually a network of localised railways which connect together to form a single route from Moscow to Vladivostok. There’s no single ticket that allows you to hop on and off – each stop must be planned in advance and booked with separate tickets. Not the easiest thing to accomplish for a non-Russian speaker! Agencies such as Real Russia are a good option, and they can also help with sourcing the letter of invitation you need for your visa.

You can do the whole thing door to door in six days, although realistically I’d only recommend this if you have a high boredom threshold or are really, really passionate about train travel. Trust me, there are only so many pot noodles and shots of vodka you can do before both lose their novelty. The other option is to break up the journey by hopping on and off along the way.

There are a dozen stops to choose from. Get inspired with this ultimate Trans-Siberia railway itinerary. Remember, this is a guide only and you’ll need to check train schedules and times yourself when you plan your trip as they change regularly:

Days 1-3 – Moscow : Spend three days exploring the Russian capital and stocking up on key supplies. Fresh fruit and vegetables, healthy snacks such as nuts and your own supply of vodka and beer are all key items. The food on the trains is often overpriced and stodgy (grey meat and potatoes anyone?), while alcohol is significantly more expensive than in standard supermarkets.

Day 4 – Moscow/Kazan: Make the 12-hour journey to Kazan.

Days 5-6 – Kazan: Derived from the Tatar word for cooking pot, Kazan is a fascinating stew of Tatar and Slavic culture. Its skyline is pierced by church spires and minarets of mosques, and it’s this blend of Asian and European culture that gives the city its distinctive atmosphere. A formidable fortress on the banks of the Volga River, the Kazan Kremlin is utterly fascinating. Parts of the building date back to the 16th century. Other must-sees include the Kul Sharif Mosque, which is crowned in sky-blue towers, and the Central Market . With its narrow lanes lined by locals selling produce from their own garden, this bustling spot has more than a whiff of a Turkish bazaar about it.

Day 7 – Kazan/Yekaterinburg: Make the 13-hour journey to Yekaterinburg.

Days 8-9 – Yekaterinburg: Art and assassination are the twin threads running through this liberal city in the Ural Mountains. Its historical (if gruesome) claim to fame is that the last tsar of Russia, Nicholas II, and his family were murdered by the Bolsheviks in the Ipatyev house basement. A sombre cathedral called Church Upon the Blood now stands on the site and makes for an interesting hour or so. There are plenty of cool creative spaces springing up in old warehouses and independent galleries to discover, while national parks such as Olenyi Ruchyi are great for a day trip if you have time.

Day 10 – Yekaterinburg/Novosibirsk : Make the 21-hour journey to Novosibirsk.

Days 11-13 – Novosibirsk: The unofficial capital of Siberia is a young, dynamic place with more than 50 higher education institutions and a host of quirky museums. Spend a morbid but fascinating afternoon at the World Funeral Culture Museum , browse beautiful, bizarre and even a few erotic items carved from birch wood at the Museum of Siberian Birch Bark and travel back in time to the USSR Museum, which is packed with Soviet treasures. Be sure to set aside at least half a day to explore Akademgorodok, a suburb which was built as a centre for academic research and nicknamed ‘the last Soviet Utopia.’ It’s a bizarre town surrounded by rolling pine forests and on the sandy shores of a reservoir known as the Ob Sea.

Days 14 -15 – Novosibirsk/Irkutsk : Make the 31-hour journey to Irkutsk.

Day 16 – Irkutsk: Spend a day recovering from the journey and exploring Irkutsk’s historic old town, with its distinctive wooden houses.

Days 17-19 – Irkutsk/Olkhon Island : Most hostels organise daily minibuses to Lake Baikal, a drive of around six hours. In summer, you take a ferry to Olkhon Island, which is the largest in the lake and a place of electrifying beauty. There are several homestay options in the main village, Khuzir, and from there you can go hiking, fishing and exploring. Be warned, there is no running water. You’ll wash in the village bathhouse with water from the lake heated over a fire, before sweating it all out in the sauna.

📷  @katgo_83

Days 20-22 – Irkutsk/Vladivostok:   Make the 79-hour journey to Vladivostok.

Days 23-24 – Vladivostok: The gateway to Russia’s Far East, Vladivostok flows over several hills and bays, many connected by striking bridges. Get a sense of the city’s unique Chinese-influenced food culture at Sportivnaya Market, explore the Zarya Centre for Contemporary Art housed in an old clothing factory, and enjoy a vibrant nightlife which centres around electronic music.

Moscow and St. Petersburg are both famously expensive to visit, with the cost of dining out on a par with London and a dual price system whereby foreigners pay much more than Russian citizens for attractions such as The Mariinsky Theatre and the Hermitage. If you’re being very careful, you should be able to get by on around £55 per day including your hostel bed. Outside the cities it’s a different story, with meals often costing as little as £1.80.

Russia’s currency is the ruble and it’s denoted as RUB. Coin denominations are 1, 5, 10 and 50 kopeks and 1, 2, 5 and 10 rubles. Some 10 ruble notes are still in circulation, but rarely seen in Moscow or St. Petersburg. Banknote values include 50, 100, 500, 1000 and 5000. At the time of writing, 800RUB is equal to around £10 or $12.50 USD, but always check the latest exchange rates.

It’s always worth carrying plenty of cash with you in Russia, particularly when visiting remote villages. While most communities will have an ATM, they are often out of order and many places don’t accept credit card. Stock up in the bigger towns when you can.

It’s also worth letting your bank know the dates you’ll be in Russia. Because of the high level of fraud in the country, it’s fairly common for cards to be blocked.

Budget for backpacking Russia

If you’re outside the major cities, you’ll need to budget around £14 per day for backpacking in Russia. This includes accommodation in a hostel dorm, two one course meals, entrance to a museum or other attraction and a city centre taxi ride.

Public transport within the cities is very cheap (a ride on the Moscow metro costs £0.50) and trains rarely cost more than £60, even for very long distances. Remember to pack your own food and drinks, as those on the restaurant car are often poor quality and very expensive. The only cooking facilities you will have access to is a samovar of boiling water, so noodles, couscous, porridge and herbal teas are all your new best friends. Yummy.

📷  @artemkovalev

From husky sledding through the Arctic tundra to exploring tiny islands, there are enough incredible things to see and do in Russia to last a lifetime. Get inspired with our ultimate guide to the best places to visit in Russia.

Top things to see and do in Russia

St. Petersburg has to be at the top of any visitors’ wish list. This is the city of colourful domes and canals lined by pastel mansions, of Baroque palaces and the famous White Nights festival (generally in the first half of July). Despite all the might of the revolution, history is this city’s main attraction and your visit will inevitably revolve around legends such as The Hermitage, Catherine’s Palace, Isaac’s Cathedral and Peter and Paul Cathedral. Architecture geeks should check out the ‘House with Owls’ on Bolshoi Prospect 44, as well as the Andrey Mironov Theater on Leo Tolstoy Square, which looks like a fairytale castle.

Moscow , Russia’s enigmatic capital, is a feast for the senses. Follow the smell of incense to 600 churches which hide ancient icons and glitter with golden spires. Listen to Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture just a few blocks away from where it premiered more than a century ago. Feel as if you’ve travelled back in time at the Bunker-42 Cold War Museum and feel the full historic significance of Red Square, the beating heart of modern Russia.

The highlight of Eastern Siberia, Lake Baikal is one of the top things to see in Russia. It was formed more than 25 to 30 million years ago and contains nearly one fifth of the world’s unfrozen fresh water, making it the deepest lake in the world. In winter, it’s a frozen wonderland criss-crossed with ice roads padded by dog-sleds and fringed by snow-covered mountains. Exploring it on a full day’s hovercraft tour is an experience not to be missed. In summer, you can spot endemic species such as wide-eyed nerpa seals and pungent Golomyanka fish, which appear to glow because they have such a high oil content. Catching a boat to Olkhon Island for a few day’s hiking through the pine forests and along the sandy shore is guaranteed to be a highlight of your trip to Russia. Look out for wild horses and saunas, where locals heat lake water over pine-wood fires.

The gateway to Baikal is Irkutsk , a pleasant city with unique architecture and a large river precinct where locals chill in summer. In the 130th city district, you’ll find distinctive wooden houses with painted shutters and wooden carvings so delicate they look as if they’re made of lace cut by elfin scissors. The central market is well worth a wander to try local specialties such as pinecones preserved in syrup.

No less than 4,000 miles from Moscow, Vladivostok is a picturesque port city that looks a little like San Francisco. Just 15 years ago, the eastern most point of the Trans-Siberian railway was a ‘closed city’, but it’s now a cosmopolitan hub that centres around Ploschad Bortsov Revolutsy – the city’s main square. Visit the Arseniev Regional History Museum and the Primorsky State Art Gallery and spend plenty of time by the waterfront enjoying interesting Asian and European fusion food.

Because of the harsh climate, Russians traditionally had a limited variety of ingredients and the cuisine has evolved to be incredibly creative as a result. Preserving techniques such as smoking, salting, drying and pickling are all popular and lead to unusual combinations you’ll never have tried before.

Unsurprisingly in a country this vast, the food varies hugely from region to region. In the wild north, meats such as reindeer, squirrel and bear can all be found on menus. Towards Mongolia, the Buryat people are known for delicious buuzy – palm sized dumplings filled with diced lamb, plenty of fat and onions. The verdant Altai mountains are famed for fragrant honey as well as milk fermented in a keg fumed with fallen leaves and bird cherry. And in Lake Baikal, you can try specialties such as smoked cisco, an ancient fish that is endemic to the area.

Until recently very few Russians could afford to eat out at restaurants and the culture was generally to gather in extended family groups at home. However, in recent years the food scene has come on in leaps and bounds, particularly in major cities. In Moscow, traditional rynok (Soviet built farmer’s markets) are being turned into funky food courts such as Danilovsky market.

Stolovaya are self-service canteens also built during the Soviet era, and they offer great value for money as well as characterful interiors that look as if they’re frozen in time. Stolovaya 57 is tucked away on the top floor of GUM department store in Moscow’s Red Square, and it’s a fantastic place for a memorable lunch, particularly in a city where dining out is generally very expensive.

Whether you’re slurping steaming soup or downing dumplings, you certainly won’t be going hungry in Russia. So, what exactly should you be ordering? Find out with this handy guide on what to eat and drink in Russia:

Traditional Russian foods

The Godfather of Russian food is borscht, a thick, sour beetroot, cabbage and meat soup served with a generous dollop of sour cream. This is what little Ruskies grew up gobbling at their parent’s knee and it can be found on every restaurant menu, from Restaurant Oblomov , which recreates the world of well-heeled merchants in 19th century Moscow, to Novisibirsk’s Beerman and Pelmini .

Speaking of pelmini, these tiny, ear-shaped dumplings are another must-try. They are defined by silky, thin pastry and generally a mix of lamb, pork and beef mince. Sometimes they’re served in a hearty broth and sometimes dry, but always generously accompanied by our old friend sour cream. Locals tend to make them at home on special occasions as they’re pretty time consuming to prep, but you can try excellent ones at Pervaya Pelmennaya in St. Petersburg.  Shared tables and tiled floors give this slither of a cafe the atmosphere of a Soviet canteen.

The French have their crepes, Americans have pancakes and Russians do blinis. Blinis have their roots in Slavic pagan traditions when they represented the sun. Today they are an everyday favourite and come in all shapes and sizes: sweet, fluffy scones served with honey, tiny bite-sized ones topped with caviar, savoury versions stuffed with meat, vegetables and grain-based fillings… Uh Ty Blin in Vladivostok does a great selection of breakfast blinis.

Derived from the word ‘kholod’ (meaning cold), kholodetc, or aspic as it is also known, is made by letting cooked meat with garlic sit in a refrigerator until the broth hardens into a gel. This is enjoyed cold with horseradish mustard sauce, generally as a chaser in between shots of vodka. Weird? Yes. But tasty if you can get past the idea of savoury jell-o.

Although Russians have a reputation for being a nation of meat lovers, the Orthodox church actually bans consuming animal products for around 40 fast days a year, so there are plenty of traditional dishes that can easily be made vegetarian. Oliver salad was invented in the 1860s by Lucien Olivier, head chef of the famous Moscow restaurant ‘Hermitage’. It is a mayonnaise-y combo of boiled potatoes, gherkins, peas, eggs and carrots, with chunks of chicken as an optional extra. Dacha Na Pokrovke, tucked away in a crumbling Moscow mansion, does a good one.

Food safety in Russia

Like most cliches about Russia, the idea that the food is bad is a thing of the past that ties back to the days of shortages under the Soviet Union. However, a few basic safety measures are wise to avoid a bad belly. Nobody needs an upset stomach on a 72-hour train journey…

The first is not using tap water, even just to brush your teeth. This one is a pain because bottled water isn’t subsidised and does add up, especially if you’re on a longer trip. Although the Russian consumer-rights watchdog Rospotrebnadzor regularly tests tap water throughout the country and says it’s safe to drink, the truth is that in many areas the filtration systems don’t appear to be working. For example, in central Russia there’s a high concentration of ferrum in the water and in Siberia there’s too much silicon and manganese. It’s best to follow the locals in buying bottled water, boiling tap water for at least 10 minutes or using water purification tablets. Make sure that the bottled water has its seal intact – there have been cases of ‘fakes’ being sold to travellers at train stations.

Similarly, there is a real issue with counterfeit spirits in Russia. Tragically, in 2016 72 people in Siberia died from drinking ‘vodka’ that actually turned out to be tainted bath oils. While this is a one-off incident, you do want to be careful about where you stock up on booze, even just to avoid killer hangovers! Stick to chain supermarkets and well-known bars, or if you’re heading somewhere remote, opt for sealed bottled beer such as Tolstiak or Nevskoe Imperial.

Fast food has a long and proud tradition in Russia. A chain called Teremok can be found in pretty much every city and does a mean line in cheap, tasty blini, soup and mains. Meat and mushroom pies are normally on sale around churches and monasteries, which the monks prepare fresh using ancient recipes that have been passed down through generations. Consider it an edible history lesson. However, meaty bites near the metro, passages or stations are best avoided, as they’ve often been sat around for a while.

It’s illegal to drink vodka or beer on the streets or on public transport, and you should be wary of strangers wanting to drink with you. This could be part of a scam.

Russian eating and drinking culture

The fact that Russians love vodka is one of those clichés that’s actually true. They drink it very differently from how we do back home, sharing out an entire bottle in a single sitting. Most Russians know that foreigners can’t drink like them and there’s no shame in leaving some vodka in your cup to show that you’ve had your fill for the time being.

The best description of how to drink vodka like a Russian comes from Anton Chekhov, one of the most famous Russian writers out there:

“First, you take a deep breath, wipe your hands and glance up at the ceiling to demonstrate your indifference. Only then you raise your vodka slowly to your lips and suddenly: Sparks! They fly from your stomach to the furthest reaches of your body!”

You shouldn’t drink without toasting and should always start your toast with the words ‘na zdorovie’, or ‘za zdorovie’, which literally translates into English as ‘for good health’. Remember to pour your own vodka last, as it’s impolite for the toaster to drink first. It’s also considered impolite to drink without a snack to chase each shot with. These are known as zakuska and can take the form of bread with a pinch of salt, pickles or salads.

Given that it shares a border with China, it’s no surprise that Russians love their tea. Most locals drink loose leaf black tea, which they make very strong in a pot and then dilute with water in each cup to suit everyone’s individual tastes. Talking about problems or catching up on the news over a cup of tea is something of a national pastime, and if you’re invited to join a local in their home it’s polite to pick up something sweet from a bakery to take as a gift.

📷  @igorstarkoff

Given that Russia is more like a series of territories than a single country, it’s no surprise that the culture varies hugely from place to place, or that the people themselves look visibly different depending on where you go. Moscovites tend to have European features, while the Buryat people of Lake Baikal have the high cheekbones and glossy black hair of Mongolians. In fact, there are 120 distinct ethnic groups within Russia. In order to decide where best to focus your trip, it’s helpful to have a grip on the geography of this vast nation.

Russia crouches at the crossroads of Europe and Asia and has been hugely influenced by both. European Russia, the most densely populated region with most of the major cities, lies between the Ukraine-Belarus border and the jagged peaks of the Ural Mountains. This is the land of books, ballet and bars that only welcome patrons who look wealthy. You have been warned! Anything to the east of this line is Asian Russia, and it’s here that you’ll find the remains of tribal culture and the untamed wilderness of the steppe and the Arctic desert. This is the area to go to for hiking, horse riding and haunting Soviet ghost towns.

Russia has made a colossal contribution to the world’s culture, particularly in the field of classical arts. We’re talking about the country that gave us the likes of Tchaikovsky, Tolstoy and Trotsky, after all.

Russian ballet is considered the best in the world, and Russian theatres are as dazzling as Faberge eggs. Traditional ones such as The Bolshoi and the Mariinsky drip in gold leaf and acres of velvet, while others are in striking Soviet buildings, such as the Omsk State Music Theatre , which looks a little like a ski jump.

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Russian traditions

Russians love a holiday and celebrate a mixture of Christian and ancient pagan traditions dating back to the Slavic tribes. After the revolution, Christian holidays were banned but many people celebrated in secret, which has given rise to some fascinating traditions.

Russian Christmas is celebrated on January 7 th and includes mystical practices such as tarot readings and tea leaf and coffee ground divination. New Year’s Eve is the biggest night of the year, when presents are exchanged and the Russian equivalent of Santa comes to town. Maslenitsa has its roots in the sun-worshipping traditions of the ancient Rus. Although the date changes every year it is generally around mid-March and takes the form of a massive party to welcome the spring, with a particular focus on pancakes to represent the sun. There are seven days of celebrations culminating with bonfires and parades on the Sunday.

📷  @betagamaa

For an eye-opening cultural experience, time your visit to coincide with Victory Day on May 9 th . This celebrates Russian dominance over the Nazis and every town and city hosts a parade where locals pass through the streets holding pictures of loved ones who died in the war. Some towns such as Novisibirsk also use the occasion to display their military prowess by parading tanks and other weapons through the streets to huge cheers from the crowd.

Russian history

Russia’s history is a complex tapestry of royalty and revolutions that can be felt today in everything from the statue of Ivan the Terrible in Oryol to the khrushchyovka (five-story Soviet tower blocks) that dominate almost every city’s skyline.

The Eastern Slavic tribes known as the Rus, the ancestors of modern Russians, are thought to have originally migrated from Poland in 800CE. After several hundred years under Mongolian rule, Ivan the Terrible became the first tsar of Russia. The Romanov dynasty ruled decadently for 300 bejeweled, blood-spattered years before coming to an abrupt end with the assassination that wiped out the entire family (except possibly, as romantics like to believe, Anastasia). The magnificence of the court, ruled over by emperors and empresses dressed in ermine and decked with diamonds, is the stuff of legends. You can get a real sense of it at the Belosselsky-Belozersky Palace in St. Petersburg, and the Grand Kremlin Palace in Moscow.

Russia’s more recent history is a sombre (and far less glitzy) affair. In 1917, the communist Bolsheviks under Vladimir Lenin overthrew the last of the Tsars, ushering in a period of famine, persecution and fear. Between 1946 and 1989, the country essentially vanished from the world stage behind a wall of travel and contact restrictions known as the iron curtain. This is the period most people imagine when they picture Russia: babushkas queuing hours for bread in the driving snow and squads of civilians marching in unison under a banner bearing the hammer and sickle. This continued until 1991, when the Soviet Union dissolved and modern-day Russia was born.

Today, Russian history is very much being made, as controversial leader Vladimir Putin continues to rule, developing something of a personality cult in Russia. In part this is down to a series of tough-guy press shots that depict him as the country’s modern saviour. Horse riding, arm wrestling and martial arts – you name it, Putin’s done it in the name of cultivating this image. It’s best to avoid discussing him with locals as he is a very divisive figure, and this could lead to some awkward conversations if you don’t know their political leaning.

Russian people

Tall, slender women with cheekbones to die for. Elderly men swigging vodka in fur hats. Youths with shaved heads decked out in camo gear. Grandmothers with a demure piece of flowered cloth covering their hair. You’ll be amazed by how many of your preconceptions of Russian people turn out to be truer than you ever thought possible.

Their manner can come as a bit of a shock to first timers. This is a country where men try to be as macho as possible and women casually wear bodycon dresses and heels for a trip to the shops. Smiles are seen as unnecessary or sometimes even a sign of weakness and are rarely exchanged with strangers.  This can make locals seem unfriendly and even rude, but it is purely a cultural norm rather than anything personal. Once you get used to it, it’s also kind of refreshing – if a Russian smiles or laughs at you, you know they really mean it.

Outside of the big cities, men can be keen to show foreigners ‘exactly what Russians are made of’. This can take the form of staring to assert dominance, refusing to move out of the way on pavements and occasionally even deliberately swerving the car to cover you in dust. However, be respectful and persevere. Below their gruff exteriors, Russians are warm, generous people who value family above anything else and know a good time when they see one.

The largest ethnic groups are the Russians, Tatars and Ukrainians. Ethnic Russians originated in Eastern Europe, while the Tatars hail from Mongolia’s Gobi Desert.

While Russia is generally considered a safe destination, like anywhere it’s wise to keep your wits about you. There are certain areas best avoided, including the border with Ukraine, the North Caucasus and Abkhazia and South Ossetia, all of which are currently experiencing political instability. Check out the foreign office’s travel advice for up to date information.

The big cities and Trans-Siberian route are well trodden and therefore very safe. In fact, Moscow has a dedicated force of tourist police who speak decent English and are specifically in charge of supporting visitors to the capital. It’s still a good idea to guard against pickpockets by keeping your belongings close.

Tick-borne encephalitis, a viral infection carried by ticks, is on the rise in Russia. Between March and November in particular, take care in forested areas. If hiking or camping be sure to stick to marked trails to avoid brushing against long grasses and regularly apply a good, DEET-based insect repellent. Usually symptoms appear 7 to 14 days after being bitten by an infected tick and include fever, headache, fatigue, muscle pain, nausea and loss of appetite. If experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s vital you go to the doctor to prevent the disease developing into meningitis or encephalitis.

Beware of photographing military establishments or places of strategic importance (including airports), as it’s illegal. You could be arrested and interrogated. There was a well-known case of a journalist being fined – if in doubt, don’t snap.

Sadly, Russia is undeniably very regressive in some ways. While homosexuality is technically legal, it is generally regarded badly among some sectors of the people. The LGBQTI community should be careful, as public displays of affection could attract unwanted attention.

Racism is still a major issue, particularly in rural communities. Visitors of African, Middle Eastern and Asian descent should be vigilant on the streets, particularly around Hitler’s birthday on April 20 th , when Neo-Nazi thugs have been known to attack people who don’t look Russian. Unbelievably, anti-Semitism was state-sponsored during Soviet times and it still rears its ugly head from time to time with the help of right-wing political parties.

Be very careful when using dating apps. Petty criminals regularly use the famously attractive local women to ensnare travellers into fraud. Don’t buy presents for anyone you haven’t met in person. Even if they do look like Russia’s next top supermodel…

📷  @serge_k

Tips for backpacking Russia

Russia is not the easiest country to travel. It’s vast, lacks infrastructure and can appear culturally baffling. However, this also makes it one of the most rewarding destinations out there – its enigma is definitely part of its charm and guarantees you’ll be having challenging experiences that will make a real impression on you for years to come. Ensure you come back from Russia with love with these top tips for backpacking Russia:

• You’ll need your passport details when buying train tickets and your passport will be checked at the train station. Keep it handy, and when you’re on the train never leave it unattended.
• Never wear sandals in major cities. No matter how high the mercury soars, they are seen as the epitome of bad taste. Wear sandals in modish Moscow and you can expect sniggering, strange looks and even for people to take the odd sneaky picture. You have been warned!
• Always dress to impress on a night out. Most clubs and many bars have a ‘face control’ policy on the door and anyone who doesn’t match the venue’s aesthetic will be turned away. Women always wear dresses and heels and men generally go for all black.
• Be respectful in churches. Women should cover their heads and shoulders and men shouldn’t try and enter in shorts. Often there’ll be wraps by the door which you can use to shield your modesty.
• It’s a good idea to carry your passport, visa and registration with you at all times. Police are entitled to stop you and demand your documents, although this is rare nowadays. Sometimes they’ll ask for an unofficial fee for the service and you should always ask for an official receipt to scare off fraudsters.
• Some restaurants offer ‘business lunches’ between certain hours which are well-priced set menus.
• If you’re on a tight budget, do your research as many key sites have free admission days. At the Hermitage in St.Petersburg, the first Thursday of each month is a free day, while at the New Tretyakov Gallery in the Russian capital it’s every Wednesday.
• Identify which attractions are highest on your priority list and do careful research on when they’re open, as there are no standardised opening and closing times for museums, cathedrals and other key sites. For example, Lenin’s mausoleum is only open from 10am until 1pm and is closed on Mondays and Fridays.
• It’s always worth buying a local sim card from companies such as MTS, Beeline or Megafon. Not only will this save you money on calls and texts to local numbers, lots of Russian Wi-Fi networks require a Russian phone number in order to log on.
• Make sure there are no torn parts or marks on your bank notes, and don’t fold them. A lot of banks in Russia charge a commission to exchange US dollars or Euros into Rubles if the banknotes are not picture-perfect.

What to bring backpacking Russia

• Eye mask : Your new best friend for overnight trains and vital if your visit falls during the white nights when the sun rarely sets for longer than a few hours.
• Kindle/books/cards: Train journeys that often last several days – enough said.
• iTranslate app : Outside major cities, few people speak English and a good translation app is key. iTranslate works with both voice and text and can also speak your translations, which is great for practicing your skills or communicating with native Russian speakers.
• Serious winter gear : If travelling in winter, do not underestimate the cold. As the local saying goes: “A Siberian is not the one who isn’t afraid of cold, but the one who dresses up properly.” That includes thermals, gloves, scarves, hats, boots and a ski coat.
• Stylish clothes : There is no denying that Russians love to dress up, particularly in the cities. If you’re planning on partying in Russia make sure you have a few outfits you feel good in (and ladies, that does mean heels if you want to go clubbing). You’ll stick out like a sore thumb rocking up somewhere in well-loved Nikes and jeans and locals will not be shy with disparaging glances…

📷  @malyushev

Thanks for reading our ultimate guide to backpacking Russia! We hope you’ve found out everything you need to know to embrace the world’s biggest country. If you have any questions, or any of your own insider tips, let us know in the comments below. Enjoy your Russian adventure!

About the author:

Imogen Lepere is a travel writer with a soft spot for anything quirky, surprising and incongruous. Her adventures include teaching in Kathmandu, riding the Trans-Mongolian railway and living with a nudist colony in Greece. She currently splits her time between London and Melbourne, where she can normally be found with a glass of wine in one hand and a pen in the other. Read more of her work on her  blog  or follow her on  Instagram .

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Amazon Customers Can’t Get Enough of These 12 Travel Products This Year — and Prices Start at $14

Shop travelers’ favorite comfy sandals, duffel bags, accessories, and more.

Travel + Leisure / Reese Herrington

If there’s one thing that Amazon excels at, it’s staying stocked with an impressive array of must-have travel gear at all times. At Travel + Leisure , it’s our job to identify the top deals that will make every adventure go off without a hitch, but after stumbling upon the site’s ‘ Customers’ Most-loved ’ storefront, it became abundantly clear that Amazon shoppers also have their fingers on the pulse of what’s worth snagging right now.

From podiatrist-designed sneakers to the best packable duffel bag for international travel, we’ve combed through the pages upon pages of products that Amazon shoppers are loving this year, pulling out the 12 essentials that you won’t want to forget to bring on your next trip. And with prices starting as low as just $14, your wallet won’t take a major hit while you stock up on your new favorite gear.

Dr. Scholl’s Time Off Sneakers

Comfortable sneakers are a pillar of any well-rounded packing list, which is exactly why both Amazon shoppers and T+L readers can’t seem to get enough of these podiatrist-approved shoes for their summer adventures. The simple, no-frills design is easy to pair with any outfit you may have tucked into your suitcase, while well-cushioned insoles offer all the support you need for long travel days, sightseeing tours, and beyond. Plus, they’re easy to slip on and off, making them a dream for hustling through TSA.

Caracilia Two-Piece Set

On travel days, there’s a good chance that the last thing you want to worry about is selecting a comfortable and stylish outfit for the hours ahead. Thankfully, Amazon shoppers have confirmed that this cozy two-piece set from Caracilia is an excellent choice for remaining relaxed in-flight while still looking your best — and it’s even on sale for just $37 right now. Both the top and bottom can be styled together or separately to enhance the versatility of your wardrobe, and the set is even available in 19 bold and neutral shades that are sure to highlight your personal taste.

K. Carroll Taylor Tote Bag

This Oprah-approved tote bag also happens to be a T+L reader-favorite for travel, and with a spacious yet structured design, it’s no wonder why. A sleek exterior of polyester and suede makes this bag the perfect selection for both a personal item and your go-to purse for sightseeing, and it’s even fitted with RFID-blocking pockets and a secure snap at the interior, making it a travel must-have. With 10 colors to choose from, you can add a pop of personality to even your simplest airport outfit.

Paplus Ankle Compression Socks

Compression socks are the unsung heroes of air travel, which is exactly why these ankle socks are a best-seller at Amazon , boasting more than 45,300 five-star ratings from happy customers. The tight yet breathable fit remains a staple for summer travel (and they’re even designed to be sweat-wicking), so even if you’re prone to foot and leg swelling on the plane, you’ll notice improved blood flow and comfortable compression to stave off cramping and other discomfort. After one flight wearing them, you’re not likely to ever go without these socks again. 

Hero Neck Wallet Pouch

Keeping your travel documents and other valuables safe and protected during your adventures is a major key to success, which is why shoppers are looking to the Hero Neck Wallet as their solution. This slim, lightweight pouch is easy to tuck beneath your clothing to subtly hide your wallet, passport, and cash, and it’s made from RFID-blocking, water-resistant material that’s both breathable and reliable. Whether you’re embarking on a walking tour or a leisurely stroll around a new destination, this wearable pouch is a valuable companion.

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Underseat Carry-on

There’s nothing more stressful than boarding a packed flight only to find that your personal item is too large to comfortably fit underneath the airline seat. However, Amazon shoppers have uncovered the perfect solution in the Travelpro Maxlite 5 Underseat Carry-on that boasts ample packing space while still effortlessly sliding beneath the seats of most commercial airlines. The lightweight design is easy to carry and features a sleeve at the back of the bag that allows it to be stacked atop your rolling luggage, while a top-open pocket offers easy access to your belongings while you’re on the go. 

Baleaf Women’s Biker Shorts

If you’re tired of dealing with chafed legs in the summer, take a cue from Amazon shoppers and snag these highly rated biker shorts which are now on sale for a mere $20 and have earned a staggering 60,800-plus five-star ratings as a testament to their comfort and overall value. Made from a breathable polyester and spandex blend, these shorts are an ideal selection for anything from a toasty summer hike to a longhaul flight — and they even have pockets. You can’t go wrong with picking them up in the classic black shade, but if you’re frequently drawn to brighter colors, there are 38 options to choose from.

Lumesner Carry-on Backpack

Traveling with a backpack as your personal item is the easiest way to keep your hands free without cutting corners on your packing list, and this shopper-loved pack from Lumesner is an excellent choice thanks to its expandable design, padded straps, and water-resistant exterior. The bag itself unzips like a suitcase to ensure that packing is as easy as possible, plus, it even comes with a set of four packing cubes to take your organization to the next level. With a padded laptop pocket, built-in USB port, and side-carry handle included as major highlights, suffice it to say your next trip will be your smoothest yet.

The Ridge Slim RFID-blocking Wallet

The continued development of technology has unfortunately made it easier for theft to occur on your cards without even being pickpocketed, which is exactly why it’s worth investing in an RFID-blocking wallet for your travels. This slim yet surprisingly spacious wallet holds up to 12 cards and fits inside of your pants pocket or even a compact belt bag without issue. And with more than 15,000 five-star ratings singing its praises, take this as a sign to do away with your bulky wallet for good.

Shevalues Orthopedic Sandals

Sandal season is in full swing, and if you’ve been shopping around for a pair that’s supportive and comfortable without ruining your travel outfit, this orthopedic pair is an unlikely (but worthwhile) choice. Sitting at just $23 right now, these slip-on sandals boast incredible arch support and cushioning alongside skid-free outsoles that will allow you to take on a wide range of terrain with the utmost confidence. They’re highly flexible and therefore ultra-packable, plus, EVA cushioned midsoles provide cloudlike comfort with every step.

Vomgomfom Foldable Travel Duffel Bag

Whether you prefer traveling with a duffel to a rolling bag or you’re prone to shopping during your travels and like to have an additional bag at the ready, this foldable tote is a high-quality addition to your packing list — and it’s even loved by thousands of Amazon shoppers already. Available for just $19, this lightweight, spacious overnight bag expands out to 65L, but when it’s not in use it folds into a compact 9.8 inch by 8.5 inch pouch that will hardly take up any space in your suitcase. Best of all, it’s comfortable to carry, durable, and loaded with sneaky pockets.

Einksey Unisex Sun Hat

Amazon shoppers haven’t been able to get enough of this packable sun hat while preparing for their upcoming summer travels, and in fact, it’s even earned a staggering 23,600-plus five star ratings while costing a mere $14. A convenient drawstring strap at the base of the hat keeps it firmly in place on your head during even the windiest days, while the polyester exterior offers vital sun protection thanks to a 3.9-inch brim. A built-in sweat band will be an asset during especially toasty days, and when it's not in use you can simply fold this hat into your carry-on without taking up any valuable space.

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Backpacking Russia (Ultimate Budget Travel Guide for 2024)

In this article, we are going to go through everything you need to know about backpacking Russia.

Russia is the largest country in the world, with a land area equivalent to 11% of the earth’s total landmass. Pretty impressive, right?

With stunning tundra landscapes, huge cities, stunning beaches and an array of wildlife, it’s truly an amazing place to visit.

Some of the most popular sights include the capital city of Moscow, St. Petersburg, Lake Baikal, Sochi, Kazan and the Ural Mountains.

Although often not depicted as a travel destination, Russia has so much to offer. It’s also a great place for backpackers as accommodation, food and transport is generally very cheap.

Russia is also the first country I ever backpacked, all the way back in 2007! I also returned three years later and backpacked my way from London to Lake Baikal in Siberia.

So let’s dive right into the article, and find out all the things you need to know before backpacking Russia.

Boring stuff: I have visited each of the places I recommend and give you my honest opinion, warts and all. All photos are my own unless otherwise stated and may not be reproduced without permission. Affiliate links may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

What regions make up Russia?

The Russian Federation is made up of eight districts. These are:

• Central – District Capital: Moscow
• North-Western – District Capital: St. Petersburg
• Volga – District Capital: Nizhny Novgorod
• North Caucasus – District Capital: Pyatigorsk
• Southern – District Capital: Rostov-on-Don
• Ural – District Capital: Yekaterinburg
• Siberian – District Capital: Novosibirsk
• Far-Eastern – District Capital: Vladivostok

Russia Highlights

Kaliningrad – a tiny Russian enclave on the Baltic Sea

Moscow – Red Square, St Basil’s Cathedral, the Kremlin, Lenin Mausoleum, Bolshoi Theatre…

St. Petersburg – the Hermitage , Church on the Spilt Blood, the Winter Palace…

Yekaterinburg – final resting place of the Romanovs and gateway to the Ural Mountains

Mount Elbrus – Europe’s highest mountain!

Lake Baikal – the world’s largest and deepest body of fresh water.

Vladivostok – the end of the line, Russia’s port city on the Pacific Ocean.

Kamchatka – the land of fire and ice, volcanoes and more bears than people.

The Trans-Siberian Railway – everyone should take this journey at least once in their life!

Suggested Russia Itineraries

1 week – Moscow and St. Petersburg

2 weeks – St. Petersburg – Moscow – Yekaterinburg

3 weeks – St. Petersburg – Moscow – Yekaterinburg – Rostov-on-Don

4 weeks – St. Petersburg – Moscow – Novosibirsk – Irkutsk – Lake Baikal (Trans-Siberian routes)

5 weeks – Moscow – Yekaterinburg – Novosibirsk – Baikal – Vladivostok (return by Trans-Siberian)

6 weeks – Moscow – Novosibirsk – Baikal – Yakutsk – Kamchatka

Daily budget for backpacking Russia

Depending on where you visit in Russia, the cost of accommodation, food and transport will vary. For example, the touristy areas of Moscow may be more expensive than the more rural areas of Russia.

On average you are looking at a daily budget of around ₽4,800 ($63). This will cover basic accommodation costs, food, and transport whilst backpacking Russia.

To help you stick to your budget, we have plenty of money-saving tips later on in the article!

Russia Visas

Citizens of 55 countries including Azerbaijan, Bolivia, Costa Rica, Israel, Laos, and the U.A.E can enter Russia visa-free for between 30-90 days depending on the agreement with that country.

If you are a citizen of Japan, the USA, the EU, the UK or a country in Asia or Africa you will have to apply for a visa. For some countries you can apply for a visa online, otherwise, you will have to go to your nearest Russian embassy or consulate.

Language in Russia

The Russian language uses the Cyrillic alphabet and it would pay to try and familiarise yourself with this a little before you go. All signage is in Cyrillic and English isn’t widely spoken, even in Moscow.

Getting to Russia

If you are travelling to Russia by flight, it’s likely you will arrive in Moscow as it has 3 large international airports; Sheremyetevo, Domodedovo and Vnukovo.

You may also choose to fly into Pulkovo airport, which is near St. Petersburg.

Trip.com has some of the best deals on flights to Russia.

Travelling into Russia by train is easy as the country has multiple high-speed rail connections with Europe.

Train routes run to Russia from Finland, Poland, France and Estonia. It’s also possible to go on other routes but it’s important to do your research as some require a transit visa.

Weekly routes to Moscow from the following countries. Check RealRussia for timetables and ticket prices.

Belarus: Minsk to Moscow – 8 hours

Estonia: Tallinn to St. Petersburg – 8 hours

Estonia: Tallinn to Moscow – 17 hours

Ukraine: Kiev to Moscow – 12 hours

Kazakhstan: Nur-Sultan (Astana) to Moscow – 40 hours

Mongolia: Ulaanbaatar to Moscow – 98 hours

China: Beijing to Moscow – 140 hours

You can travel to Russia by bus from Belarus, Estonia, Latvia, Finland, Poland, Germany and London. Although often not the most popular choice, it’s very cheap.

Ferries run to Russia from Japan, Korea, Turkey, Georgia and Ukraine.

It is possible to visit St. Petersburg visa-free by taking a cruise from Helsinki, Tallinn or Stockholm with St Peter Line. See their website for full details.

Getting around Russia

Russia is a HUGE country, but luckily there are a variety of transport options to help you get around.

Plane – There are over 200 airports within Russia, so when it comes to domestic flights there are plenty of choices.

Train – Travelling by train through Russia is one of the best options, as it’s a lot cheaper than catching a flight and is often more convenient.

Be aware that some stations have retained their Soviet names on timetables which can be a little confusing ( Yekaterinburg is shown as Sverdlovsk for example).

Metro – The metro system is located in 7 of Russia’s cities; these are Moscow, St. Petersburg, Kazan, Nizhny Novgorod, Novosibirsk, Samara and Yekaterinburg. It’s the best way to explore these cities.

City bus systems – The public transport systems in Russian cities are usually made up of buses, trolleybuses and trams. Travelling this way is cheap, and very convenient.

Long-distance bus services – There are plenty of long-distance bus services around and they are a great option whilst backpacking Russia.

The Trans Siberian Railway

There are three main routes:

• Trans-Siberian – Moscow to Vladivostok
• Trans-Mongolian – Moscow to Ulaanbaatar
• Trans-Manchurian – Moscow to Beijing

Unfortunately, at present there is no “hop-on, hop-off” service, so if you wish to visit places along the route, you must buy individual tickets for each leg of the journey.

Where to stay – Cheap accommodation in Russia’s most popular tourist spots

It’s inevitable that accommodation prices will vary depending on where you travel throughout Russia.

To give you an idea, I’ve come up with a list of the most popular spots in Russia and a cheap accommodation option for each one:

Moscow – Napoleon Hostel

St. Petersburg – The Roomers

Lake Baikal – Mini Gostinica near Lake Baikal

Belokurikha – Hotel Berkut

Sochi – Sochi Hotel

Kazan – Mironov’s House

Money in Russia

The currency in Russia is the Russian rubles (or rouble – RUB).

The exchange rate fluctuates but at the start of 2022, the average exchange rate is $1 = 75 RUB.

The important thing to remember about money in Russia is that It’s always best to exchange it in advance.

Cards are generally accepted in the country, but you’ll never know what the exchange rate is or if Russian banks will accept the card.

Also, a lot of things are paid for in cash in Russia including public transport and tipping so it’s always best to have cash on you.

Sample costs of items across the country*

The best places to visit in russia.

Here are the top places to visit whilst backpacking Russia. They have been split by district to make things easier for you!

The North-Western district

• St. Petersburg
• Veliky Ustug
• The Republic of Karelia
• The Pskov Region

Visitors to Russia should allow at least a couple of days to discover charming Saint Petersburg . Highlights include the Hermitage, Winter Palace, Church on the Spilt Blood and the canals.

St Petersburg really is a highlight of Russia, so if you’re planning a trip be sure to include it in your itinerary. Check out this excellent guide to the beautiful Russian Palaces in the city (the Winter Palace was a highlight of my trip back in 2007).

The Central district

• Sergiev Posad

No trip to Russia is complete without exploring the country’s impressive capital, Moscow . Allow at least three days to see the major sights including Red Square, the Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral, the Lenin Mausoleum and more.

The Volga district

• Nizhny Novgorod
• The Republic of Tatarstan
• The Raifsky Bogoroditsky Monastery

The Volga region is one of the true heartlands of Russia and encompasses the Volga River basin and stretches down to the Caspian Sea.

The Southern district

• Rostov-on-Don
• Novocherkassk

From Black Sea beaches to Europe’s tallest mountain, Elbrus, the Southern District is packed full of exciting places to visit. Pyatigorsk is famous for its mineral springs and spas and Sochi was home to the 2014 Winter Olympics.

The Ural district

• Yekaterinburg
• The Ural Mountains
• Taganay National Park
• Kungur Ice Cave
• Romanov Death Site

The Ural Mountains divide European Russia from Asia. The city of Yekaterinburg is a pleasant city with a dark past, as it was here that the Romanov family met their terrible fate in 1918. It’s not all gloom and doom though, and the city is filled with parks, lakes and impressive architecture.

The Siberian district

• Novosibirsk
• Stolby Reserve
• The Omsk Region
• Lake Baikal
• Belokurikha

Siberia is a vast expanse of forest (taiga) that covers an area the size of the United States. The region’s crown jule is Lake Baikal, the deepest and largest body of fresh water in the world. In summer, the area is perfect for hiking, camping, picking berries and enjoying the great outdoors. In winter, the frozen lake becomes a winter playground!

The Far-Eastern district

• The Kheketsir Mountains
• Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky
• Land of the Leopard National Park

Russia is a wild country, but the Russian far east takes this to new extremes. From the “pole of cold” at Oymyakon in Yakutia can reach temperatures of -70 degrees Celcius! Conversely, the Kamchatka peninsula is the land of fire and ice. The volcanic peninsula is so otherworldly that the Soviets used it as a testing ground for their spacecraft!

Food and drink in Russia

When it comes to food in Russia, there is a variety of cuisine available. In the larger cities of Moscow and St. Petersburg, there is more choice of cafes and restaurants. Japanese is a popular cuisine in these big cities, and western food is readily available.

However, as you head to the more rural areas of Russia, you will find there are fewer options and it’s harder to find menus in English.

There are plenty of tasty national dishes in Russia including pelmeni, borshch , pirogi and tvorog .

Vodka is the national drink of Russia and is usually knocked back in one gulp and then chased with a salted cucumber or a bite of black bread . However, vodka in Russia is not for the faint-hearted with such a high alcohol concentration, so be wary if you aren’t a big drinker!

Best time to visit Russia

The best time to visit Russia largely depends on what district you visit, and the purpose of your trip.

However, generally, the most popular time to visit the country is between June-August which is Russia’s summertime.

Although the weather is warm, the popular cities of Moscow and St. Petersburg get incredibly crowded during this time of year.

If you don’t mind the weather being a bit cooler, you can choose to visit Russia in May or September. The crowds will be a lot thinner, and accommodation prices will often be cheaper.

Many people like to visit in the wintertime to see a snowy Russia. It’s important to note that October and November are the wettest months of the year, so December would be a better choice if you don’t mind sub-zero temperatures!

16 money-saving travel tips for backpacking Russia

• Stay in a hostel dorm or a cheap economy room (There are plenty out there).
• Exchange currency beforehand rather than pay by card.
• You can often volunteer in exchange for food and accommodation by using sites like the Help Exchange.
• Getting a tourist pass in Moscow and St. Petersburg will save you money when it comes to entering attractions.
• Some popular attractions have ‘free admission days’.
• Use overnight trains to save a night’s accommodation. Book the tickets about a month in advance for an even cheaper deal.
• Always use the metro in big cities if possible!
• A troika travel card in Moscow costs around ₽50 ($0.66) and can be topped up at any time. With this card, any public transport journey in Moscow will cost ₽42 ($0.56).
• Gastro food courts are perfect if you want cheap restaurant-quality food.
• Stick to delicious Russian dishes as western food is a lot more expensive.
• Research transport options before heading to another destination, as long-distance buses are often even cheaper than the train.
• The government sometimes organise free entertainment such as concerts or screenings of matches.
• Eat at a street vendor or small local cafe to cut your costs.
• Stock up on supplies at the local supermarkets.
• Buy a cheap travel Sim Card to save on network charges.
• Don’t use taxis as they are expensive.

Is Russia Safe to Visit?

Although Russia has a very sketchy reputation, today generally speaking it’s as safe as many other countries in Europe.

Police and security cameras are located throughout popular cities, and the city of Moscow even has its own tourist police force.

However, no country is ever 100% safe and there are things to be cautious of whilst backpacking Russia.

Pickpocketing is incredibly common, especially in popular tourist spots like St. Petersburg and Moscow.

It’s also important to note that if you’re a member of the LGBT community, you should refrain from public displays of affection.

In Russia discussion of homosexuality issues or gay rights in the presence of minors is punishable by law, so there is a need to be careful.

Tourists are also strongly advised against travelling to the North Caucasus, as it’s considered to be the most dangerous region in Russia. With terrorist activities, higher crime rates and corruption, this is an area of Russia to avoid.

With the above in mind, it pays to have good cover while backpacking through Russia. Our partners at World Nomads are experts at providing cover for backpackers. You can get a free, no-obligation quote here .

On my second visit to Russia, I experienced police corruption first-hand. I was with friends drinking a beer in a public park and the police came and said that it was illegal and we must go with them (we had seen many other people doing the same, so it seemed suspicious from the outset).

It soon became clear that the police were after a bribe, and we each paid 2,000 ($25) to avoid being taken to jail. We were made to get in the police car and pass the money under the seat so no one could see what was going on.

I will add that this was over 10 years ago so perhaps things have improved, but be wary of the police and avoid interactions with them where possible.

Recommended vaccines for Backpacking in Russia

If you will just be visiting the cities and urban areas in Russia vaccines aren’t too important. If you will be spending time in the Russian wilderness, then it is advisable to have the following vaccines (all of which I had before camping in Siberia):

• Hepatitis (A, B and C combined)
• Tick-borne encephalitis

Russian wildlife

Russia is home to a wide variety of wildlife, and what you could encounter will differ depending on the area you visit.

Generally, a lot of the time animals are more afraid of us, than we are of them but it’s still important to know what dangerous species are around.

Bears – Bears will only attack people in self-defence or if they feel threatened (e.g wounded bears, mothers with cubs or bears who have just come out of hibernation).

Boars – Boars use their tusks as weapons, and will often attack anything that they deem a threat due to poor eyesight.

Dogs – Stray dogs are found all across Russia and can attack if they are defending their territory.

Elk – Elks are incredibly fearful animals, and will attack if they think someone poses a threat. Due to its size, an Elks kick can be fatal.

Snakes – There are a variety of venomous snakes located within Russia and these include the Common European adder, the blunt-nosed viper, the European cat snake and the Japanese striped snake. However, it’s the Northern viper that’s the most deadly.

Spiders – The Karakurt spider is one of the most dangerous spiders in the world, and if bitten you should seek medical attention immediately.

Ticks – Ticks in Russia can carry encephalitis and Lyme disease, which, unfortunately, can lead to swelling of the brain, seizures and the inability to move. If you will be spending any time in the taiga, it is recommended to get the tick-borne encephalitis vaccine.

Wolves – Wolf attacks on people are rare, but it’s often down to two reasons. Either their habitat has disappeared meaning they are moving into neighbourhoods, or their food source is running low during early spring.

Books about Travel in Russia

I have also written my own book about backpacking across Russia from Moscow to Irkutsk. You can buy it on Kindle here .

Russia is an incredible country, with a wide variety of landscapes and architecture. Although it’s often overlooked as a travel destination, it should be on the bucket list of every traveller.

With a range of transport options, cheap accommodation and a variety of different cuisine it’s the perfect destination if you’re a budget traveller.

Backpacking Russia is the best way to see the country, and trust me you won’t be disappointed!

If you have any questions about travelling on a budget in Russia, feel free to leave a comment below or get in touch via the contact form!

Check out my other backpacking guides

Backpacking China

Backpacking Hong Kong

Backpacking Kazakhstan

Backpacking the Silk Road

Backpacking the Baltics

Backpacking the Balkans

About the author: Steve Rohan is a writer from Essex, England. He has traveled to over 60 countries, lived in Armenia, China and Hong Kong, and is now living the digital nomad life on the road.

Steve prefers “slow travel” and has covered much of the world by train, bus and boat. He has been interviewed multiple times by the BBC and recently featured in the documentary Scariest Places in the World . See the About page for more info.

Where I am now: Yerevan, Armenia 🇦🇲

2 thoughts on “ Backpacking Russia (Ultimate Budget Travel Guide for 2024) ”

And now? how would it be to travel in Russia? The place is vast. Should be much the same as before Putin’s ridiculous invasion. Always wanted to take the trans-sib. Don’t want to wait ten more years (been waiting 30 as it is!). Another idea i had was to do one of the silk routes then tag on the trans mongolian train to at least get that part of the journey to Asia if I cannot travel on the Trans-sib part.

Aside from more stringent checks at customs (especially if you have evidence of visits to Ukraine), travelling across the vast expance of Russia will indeed be much the save as it ever was (an adventure, and not always easy). I would highly recommend doing the trans-sib if you have the chance. I’d also recommend taking one of the slower, local trains rather than the tourist services like the Rossiya if you want an authenitc experience (and a cheaper ticket). The Silk Road is also an incredible experience, but there isn’t just one train and a lot of changes (plus parts will need to be done by bus). Best wishes, Steve

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