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Reviews 1.6.

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BORING When did this brand become so DULL- used to buy loads now its just bland boring generic STUFF

Date of experience : 26 May 2024

customer service feels almost non-existent

I am very disappointed with this company. I placed an order worth almost €400 six days ago, but they have not even shipped it, despite the website stating delivery within 4-5 business days. It wouldn't hurt if they mentioned that it takes a week or two to ship. Awful. Their customer service is slow, and it feels almost non-existent. I did not expect such poor service from a European company, particularly considering the prices they charge. I love Arket clothing, but their service is unacceptable. A deal breaker at its best.

Date of experience : 05 May 2024

Terrible quality for such high prices

Terrible quality for such high prices. I purchased an expensive winter coat as I wanted something high quality that will last long. However to zip broke after very few uses and Arket refused to do anything about it. All I kept receiving were emails that you can tell were copy paste apologies. So disappointing! The quality of Zara or other street fashion brand is sooo much better. Avoid!!

Date of experience : 26 April 2024

Overall Digital experience is sh#t

Overall Digital experience is sh#t. I can't pay with my Visa Infinite card, I can't pay with my friends Revolut card, can't change country in settings (it's broken), cache is not working - had to add to cart 20 times, desktop is lagging when I try to add more clothes (mobile is fine), Klarna is sh#t. Was trying to make a purchase from multiple devices, 3 browsers, 2 cards.

Date of experience : 04 May 2024

Poor shipping experience

I think that Arket really needs to improve their shipping logistics. The delivery timelines, (especially since they charge for anything under £120) is really unacceptably prolonged and very out of sync with the rest of the high street brands. I don’t think I’ve ever received anything in under a week and it’s often delayed for no good reason. To remain competitive they need to give this some proper focus.

Date of experience : 18 April 2024

I think Arket needs to figure out their…

I think Arket needs to figure out their shipping and delivery schedules, another online brands get their deliveries out asap, and I’m still waiting on a bra and knickers ordered a week ago! Evri their delivery service has it sitting in a warehouse? Honestly in this day and age it’s unacceptable, I honestly don’t think I’ll shop with them again. I’m not going to receive my order in time as I’m going away on holiday, very disappointing service.

Date of experience : 24 April 2024

I received a damaged product

I received a damaged product. These were dishes that arrived broken into pieces. (and it was also a gift.) Arket refuses to return the money and asks to return this heavy huge parcel with fragments back to them so that they can process the return. Seriously?! I don’t have a car and I don’t have time to go across the city to send them back broken goods that they no longer have the right to sell anyway, it’s garbage! I’m really disappointed with this customer service… Be careful when ordering something fragile from Arket and think twice before doing it!

Date of experience : 09 April 2024

What is wrong with Arket !!Why is there…

What is wrong with Arket !!Why is their shipping so slow.They charge £5 and it takes 8 to 10 working days!!!Don’t they want repeat customers.I ordered 8 items from various stores Zara, Birkenstock,John Lewis,Amazon etc all items have now been delivered free of charge next day delivery The Arket item is still in the warehouse! I tried to use the express delivery which still takes 2 to 3 working days at a charge of £10 but of course that was not available.I have phoned and spoken to Arket and tried to hurry along the order but they just say that is their system! Arket listen to your customers you will not have repeat purchases with shipping so slow and customer service who are not willing to step in and act to solve problems.

Date of experience : 14 April 2024

Order never arrived - really poor

Ordered a t shirt (£37 so expensive for a shirt, but it was described as heavy, so was hoping it would be a quality piece). Shirt never arrived though. Waited 3 weeks and still "at warehouse awaiting pick up by Evri". Customer Service have promised to refund my money (hopefully that comes through) but no shirt and a 15% off voucher for my next purchase, which is useless as I will not be buying from them again.

Date of experience : 30 March 2024

Delivery time too long. Still waiting for pick up by Evri.

I have ordered several items from Arket recently but I am very disappointed in the time it takes to deliver. Wish I had read reviews before ordering.

Date of experience : 19 April 2024

Damaged order arrived which can clearly…

Damaged order arrived which can clearly be shown in pictures but they insist I return it for a refund. This should never be the case, the item cannot be resold so a replacement should be issued or at least a refund without the hassle of returning it. Absolutely terrible and so inconvenient. I won’t be ordering from them again.

Date of experience : 27 March 2024

Items never arrived

Placed an order for items for a holiday on 3-4 days delivery. They never arrived. It’s now 13 days later and a helpful Arket customer services colleague informed me they are being sent back to the sender by Evri but only after I contacted them. Frustrating as I am out of pocket and have no items to show for it. Edited to add 2/4/24: Arket emailed today to confirm the parcel has arrived back with them but that I will be charged a ‘return fee’. Given I never received the parcel and it was returned by Evri, I find this frustrating and have requested full reimbursement without charges for return. Wont shop with Arket - something has gone wrong at every stage.

Date of experience : 23 March 2024

I paid £250 for a bad quality coat

I paid £250 for a coat whose pockets tore off repeatedly. I can't use my pockets and am constantly loosing my stuff. I have bought fast fashion of better quality. When I contacted customer support they told me to go back to the store as they can't process issues online. I really don't have the time to take hours out of my day to go and find a store to deal with this. Poor quality and customer service all around. I'd never buy from them again.

Date of experience : 14 December 2023

Arket Basics Crew-Neck…

Ordered 2 Arket Basics Crew-Neck T-shirts on line (one black, one white) after seeing them recommended on a magazine website. No problem with delivery or return. Sadly, like the majority of t-shirts these days, the material is on the thin side, so the white was see through and they are just straight cut with no shape, so didn't suit my curves. My hunt for the pefect t-shirt continues.

Date of experience : 11 October 2023

Clunky delivery service

I think the Arket delivery service is quite clunky - it’s slow and no amends can be made after even if you reach out to arket immediately after the order is made. My package is going to an incorrect address - Margret firstly offered a recall service which I Immediately accepted - 48 hours later I get a call saying that as my package was going to a parcel shop, they would not be able to recall the order. The only advice that could give me was that it will have to be delivered, if not collected after 10 days, it would be returned to them and in return a refund would be issued. What the customer service assistant failed to grasp was that they would now be sitting on my money for around a month. Having worked in CS and e-commerce, I understand that limitations of online retails but this is beyond frustrating - The service is already slow by comparison to many online retailers - the failure to allow a window of amendment that makes that slowness so much worse.

I bought a Beanie hat for £57 and paid…

I bought a Beanie hat for £57 and paid in full. The bank statement shows 'Arket - Klarna' even though I did NOT choose to pay with Klarna. I know that any mention of Klarna on financial statements could potentially influence credit assessments, such as mortgage decisions, given its association with excessive shopping / installment payments. I did not consent to have my payment information processed by Klarna. This is not clear in your payment options during checkout, when selecting to pay in full! Please change this Arket.

Date of experience : 06 February 2024

So slow at sending items

Slow delivery! Also I returned the item I bought because a size small is massive! Sent it back weeks ago and first attempt to deliver they asked Royal Mail to delay delivering it back which I thought was strange. Eventually they have delivered it but they haven’t acknowledged my return or issued a refund. Just avoid it’s not worth the hassle. I returned to Zara the same day and I had my refund ages ago something dodgy about this company

Date of experience : 04 January 2024

Pleasantly surprised!

Having read the reviews on here, I was apprehensive about ordering from Arket. However, my experience with them has been great. My order was coming from the Netherlands and arrived in 7 days. I emailed Arket who replied the same day. There are comments on here about poor returns, but my order arrived with a returns label (which wasn’t needed as my item is lovely) I will definitely buy from Arket again.

Date of experience : 08 March 2023

I totally expected to be getting ripped off …

I totally expected to be getting ripped off. I totally expected never to see the shoes never to get my money back but they were such a good deal I just couldn’t resist. Imagine my surprise when they actually showed up and were exactly as they had been pictured in the ad. Then I realized they are actually sold on Amazon also. So just because something is reasonably priced does not necessarily mean it’s a fake fraud rip off ad.

Date of experience : 31 August 2022

Trying to fix your mess !!

Just placed an order via Spanish site. Wrote full address and upon confirmation email sent of order parts of address missing. Called customer service straight away to inform them there’s a computer fault and to update my delivery details with missing info. Was told Not possible. System won’t allow until delivery company has the goods. How insane is that. Trying to avoid their system failure and it’s not possible to change.

Date of experience : 30 March 2022

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Arket Review 2023

Of the seven (clothing) brands nestled under the H&M Group, Arket has to be my favourite . They’re positioned as more of an eco-conscious brand, with Scandic-chic timeless essentials. Think wardrobe basics in core neutrals with the occasional burst of colour, and high quality materials (which often includes recycled fibres). I recently placed an order for some new closet staples, and thought it was time to share an Arket Review for 2023 here on my blog. 

It’s worth noting that some of my most worn, most loved items are from the brand. And so far, so good. I’ve yet to be disappointed by the quality, and the only reason I’ve ever sent something back? Because the fit wasn’t quite right, or the colour didn’t suit me. Not a bad run if you ask me. So let’s dive in and chat through the six items I ordered.

Arket Ribbed Cotton Jumper (item ID 1165467-003) | size S

First thing I added to cart was this ribbed cotton jumper . I was after an updated replacement for an Enza Costa sheer long sleeve top which had truly seen better days. What drew me to this style, was that it was seemingly more opaque, but had the added ribbed detail. Chic, and a basic that works well both on its own or as a layering piece. I chose to keep this, but did want to note that the thumbholes at the end of the sleeves come up a little short. Not only that, the sleeve length seems to have shrunk up slightly since laundering so it’s no longer a functioning detail for me. 

This is the first time I’ve felt a pang of disappointment from an Arket purchase . But aside from that, I like the fit, and the texture of the cotton hasn’t changed since washing it. I have the size S and it hugs the body in a soft way. Not too tight. 

Would I buy it again? Right now I’m on the fence. I think I’d probably seek out some other options, or consider getting one of the merino wool long sleeve knit tops instead .

Arket Taffeta Midi Skirt (item ID 1185336-001) | size 36

One of two wild card pieces I added to cart was this taffeta midi skirt . It piqued my interest as it appeared to be a good dupe for Tibi’s nylon skirt , but with a fixed waistband. Which personally, I prefer, if I want to look intentionally more put together. Probably goes without saying, but elasticated waistbands tend to read “casual”. 

This surprised me in just how much I liked it. The taffeta has this ethereal, light quality which has volume and movement to it. One of the ways I’m often drawn to clothing is in the perspective of how it feels to wear it, and clearly, this was doing all the right things. The size 36 is a perfect fit. A little bit of room at the waist to tuck in a thicker knit, which allows some give to wear lower or higher on the waist depending on my styling.

Not lined, but doesn’t need to be. A great option to transition from summer through to winter, too. 

Arket Wide Hopsack Wool Trousers (item ID 1122104-001) | size 36

I have a couple of wool hopsack items from Arket in my closet, and couldn’t be happier with them. So I added this to cart with the intention of the trousers being the matching pair to a blazer I purchased over two years ago. Colour is a tricky thing to match online, so when it arrives I quickly realised that the ‘dark beige’ shade I ordered was warmer and deeper than the blazer I already owned. 

I went with a size 36, and if your intention is to wear these low on the hips, then it was the perfect fit for me. For reference, I’m a true AU8 or US4, and wear a 26 in jeans. As a long-waisted girly, this didn’t really jive with me. Most items I’ll buy need to be mid to high rise or have some heavy justification as I know I’ll seldom reach for it otherwise. So, if you’re like me, I would recommend sizing down one to get that high rise effect. There’s enough length through the rise to accommodate.

Ultimately I chose to return these, because aside from the desire to get them tailored for my perfect fit, the caramel tortoise button just kind of bothered me. It’s wholly inoffensive, so very much a question of personal taste. I would have preferred a concealed button and clasp closure for a clean, minimal look. 

Also worth noting that YES you can launder the wool hopsack pieces. I recommend doing a wool wash setting, and hanging to dry. They come out looking like new.

Arket oversized t-shirt (item ID 1115412-002) | size S

A repeat purchase in a different colour way. Always a good sign of an absolute winner. The organic cotton is beautiful; it’s not too thick, yet is robust, soft, and drapes nicely against the body. Post-laundered fabric feels the same as pre-wash, which can always be a bit of a gamble. 

The fit of this top isn’t going to be for everybody. It’s wide through the body, boxy cut, with a wide sleeve. I find that this particular tee looks best when worn tucked in, as it helps to counter the very chill nature of the design. If you’re petite, you may find it helpful to size down one. I went with my usual size small, which works well for me for a super nonchalant vibe and fit. I’m 172cm tall for reference.

Arket rib tank top (item ID 1163690-002) | size S

More basics. As I said earlier, it’s something the brand does well, and I used this order (with 15% off) as an opportunity to stock up. This tank I liked for the neckline; more of a curved, racerback style. And also the fit. Described as slim, it’s exactly that. Not figure-hugging or “snug”, but cut close to the body in a way that ruches up nicely. This fits incredibly long, so for those with a shorter torso you may find you either want to get some of the excess fabric chopped off, or that you have a lot to tuck in. 

A blend of organic and recycled cotton, this feels lovely against the hand. Medium in weight, though not fully opaque. Would recommend wearing skin-toned undergarments. Wearing a size S which fits true to size for a slim (but not tight) fit.

Arket rigid leather crossbody bag (item ID 1012998-015) 

The other wild card item I added to cart was this crossbody bag. Honestly, I had no intention of keeping it. I more added it to cart as a curiosity. Having no physical stores near me, I wanted to see how it stacked up to my Acne mini musubi bag. And let me tell you, a side by side comparison is coming . 

Colour me impressed. The leather is basically a match in terms of quality and thickness, and the style exudes that Acne Studios cool vibe, without the price tag. 

My personal opinion is that if you’re priced out of the Acne style, you’ll get the same feeling carrying this bag around, as you would the musubi. Coming from someone who owns both; I’m getting just as much joy and value out of the more affordable, Arket version . Obviously there are some small design differences, but in the scheme of bags – and how we’ll look at what’s trending now in 10-20 years’ time – they’re very similar. 

Ended up keeping this, and have zero regrets.

What would you have kept vs. what would you return from this Arket order?

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How To Choose The

Best Sling Bag

The minimalist's guide to selecting a sling bag for travel, everyday carry, and beyond.

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

Ready to embrace the sling bag trend? Step one: read this guide.

The Short Answer: The Best Sling Bags for Travel, EDC, and Beyond

Click for more information about these top picks and why we like them.

• 8.7/10: Aer Day Sling 3
• 8.6/10: Bellroy Venture Ready Sling 2.5L
• 8.5/10: TOM BIHN Side Effect
• 8.3/10: Peak Design Everyday Sling 3L (V2)
• 8.3/10: Mission Workshop Spar Sling
• 8.3/10: Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Mini Hip Pack
• 8.3/10: Heimplanet Transit Line Sling Pocket
• 8.2/10: Chrome Industries Kadet
• 8.2/10: Patagonia Atom Sling
• 8.2/10: Trakke Banana Crossbody Bag
• 8.1/10: EVERGOODS Mountain Hip Pack 3.5L

How to Choose the Best Sling Bag for Travel and Beyond

The ’90s are back and with them, the slightly edgier, far more hipster cousin of fanny packs—sling bags (and scrunchies, but that’s a guide for another time). Sling bags are, yes, a fashion statement, but also a convenient way to carry the essentials while traveling the world. Think of them as the middle ground between a backpack and your pockets.

In this guide, we’re going to walk you through how to choose the best sling bag for your situation, which means diving into all of the different aspects and explaining what works best for a variety of situations. We’re also going to provide some specific sling bag recommendations based on months of testing.

This guide is written and informed by the Pack Hacker team, all of whom are gear fiends, and some of whom have been wearing sling bags since before they were cool (#hipster). Testing and reviewing gear is our bread and butter here at Pack Hacker—our team of world travelers and digital nomads have tested and reviewed hundreds of different types of travel-specific gear at this point. In fact, we have used nearly all of the sling bags mentioned in this guide (and we’ll be getting our hands on those we haven’t very soon).

By the time you finish reading this guide, you’ll be a sling expert with all the knowledge necessary to find the best sling bag for you—or your mom, your friend, your dog, etc.

Remember, there’s no one sling bag to rule them all, there’s just the best sling bag for you . So we highly suggest reading our complete guide to figure out your best fit (your future favorite one might not have made this list).

Video Overview: 10 Sling Bags | Should You Travel With One?

Feel free to watch this guide overview in video format. We’ll go more in-depth in the written content and keep this page up to date.

Be sure to subscribe to Pack Hacker on YouTube and never miss a video.

What is a Sling Bag?

This question is not as straightforward as it seems. It’s taken a team of six bona fide gear reviewers analyzing 50+ sling bags and hip packs for over two months to come up with an answer we can all get behind (and there’s still some ambiguity).

Here’s the definition we’ve landed on: A sling bag is (drum roll, please…) a bag that’s designed to be worn comfortably across the chest or back and secured to the body with a cross-shoulder style strap. The buckle tends to be off-center, the straps connect diagonally, and the body of the bag tends to have an oblong shape—we say “tends to” because there are quite a few exceptions, which we’ll get into later.

One small clarification is that while sling bags and messenger bags have a similar thing going on with the single, crossbody style of strap—the two aren’t synonymous. Messenger bags are usually bigger, boxier, and don’t contour to the body, but there’s no exact science. Really, you can go with your gut here. We tend to think you’ll know a messenger bag when you see one.

There is a massive variety of sling bag styles out there, including tactical slings (for outdoor sportsman stuff), high-fashion slings (think Gucci), and backpack slings ( spacious enough for a laptop ). While we’ll touch on those, we’re mainly going to focus on sling bags for travel in this guide.

What’s the Difference Between a Sling Bag and a Hip Pack?

You’ll see people on the internet equating sling bags with hip packs (or waist packs, fanny packs, bum bags, belt bags, whatever you want to call them), but sling bags and hip packs aren’t one and the same. We repeat: sling bags and hip packs are not the same things.

Simply put, a hip pack is the rebranded fanny pack, while a sling bag is something different (it’s the hipster cousin, remember?). A hip pack can almost always be a sling bag, albeit not necessarily a good one, but a sling bag is virtually never a hip pack (like a square is a rectangle, but a rectangle is not a square).

That said, almost every single company out there has its own definition of a sling bag and a hip pack. To make things even more complicated, some companies will throw in the term “crossbody bag” to describe what we consider a sling bag. So, it gets messy—and our rules and definitions are by no means absolutes.

In this guide, we won’t be discussing hip packs. Getting into the nitty-gritty of sling bags is complicated enough.

Why a Sling Bag?

Now that you know what a sling bag is, let’s talk about why one will change your life (or, at the very least, make carrying stuff easier).

Sling Bags Are Perfect for Your In-Flight Essentials

Since wearing one backpack on the front and one on the back hasn’t caught on yet (yes, we’re surprised too), a sling bag becomes a great place to keep your pocketable items, especially while in transit. Just toss all of your stuff in your sling and throw the entire thing in a bin as you breeze through airport security like a pro, thus avoiding the much-dreaded “security shuffle.”

And, unlike pockets, a sling bag will fit almost everything you could ever want in-flight (within reason—a masseuse obviously won’t fit). Of course, what you carry in your sling bag is as unique as you are. Here are a few suggestions based on what works for us:

• A smartphone
• Snacks (arguably the most important)
• Tech chargers
• Battery bank
• Earplugs (every plane has at least one crying baby, even if it’s your own; it’s like a law of physics or something)
• Notebook and pen (something about being at 35,000 feet gets the creative juices flowing)
• An e-reader or book (depending on your sling; some are too small to fit one)

Once in flight, you can use a carabiner to hook your sling bag to the seat in front of you. That way, you can quickly grab a snack before you get hangry, some tissues because the movie you picked happens to be a lot sadder than you thought it’d be, or a phone charger because Tetris drains battery life surprisingly quickly. You know, only the essentials.

Sling Bags Are Perfect for Your Day Trip Essentials

Similar to the above perk, a sling bag may just be the perfect accessory for a day trip. Sometimes all you need are the basics—wallet, keys, phone—and while pockets may get the job done, 1) some clothes lack practical pockets, 2) skinny jeans are a thing, and 3) some clothes don’t have pockets at all. (*cough* Women’s clothing! *cough*)

Even if you are #blessed with useable pockets, some day trips require a few “extra” items, although not quite enough to make lugging around an entire backpack worthwhile. A sling bag allows you to bring:

• Extra camera lenses
• Extra camera batteries
• Snacks (still the most important)
• Nintendo Switch (a gamer’s gotta game)

Sling bags truly are the middle ground between a daypack and your pockets. If you’re usually a daypack kind of person, switching to a sling bag forces you to think about what you’re bringing. And your back will thank you for leaving that copy of War and Peace behind because, let’s be honest, you’re just going to look at memes on your smartphone anyway. Alternatively, if you’re usually a pocket kind of person, you can avoid overly-full pockets and think less about what you’re bringing, tossing all sorts of fun goodies into your sling bag just because you can.

Sling Bags Are Lightweight and Packable

Sling bags—specifically ones designed for travel—weigh almost nothing and can easily lay flat in your travel backpack . You can pack it and forget about it until you require your sling’s services (see the above perk).

Sling Bags Provide Easy Access

Sling bags are ridiculously easy to get in and out of. When worn on your chest, the pocket(s) is (are) literally right under your nose, and when worn on your back, you can shift it around to your front. However, beware of the T-Rex arms that can happen when the sling bag is worn high on your chest (yeah, you knew exactly what we were talking about as soon as we said “T-Rex arms,” didn’t you?).

Sling Bags Are En Vogue

At least for the time being, sling bags are “in.” You’ll find them in pretty much every high street store, and even luxury brands like Louis Vuitton are selling them. We don’t know about you, but we love it when fashion and convenience merge.

Other Use-Cases for Sling Bags Include:

• Festivals (both for convenience and trendiness)
• Everyday carry (especially for those who cycle to work)
• Hiking and outdoor adventuring
• Exploring cities
• Amusement parks
• A million other things

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One of our favorite slings may just become your favorite sling.

We dig the Aer Day Sling 3 so much that it was one of our first-ever Pack Hacker Picks—an exclusive list of our favorite travel products. You might be thinking, that’s great, but why do you like it? Well, let’s talk about it.

We’ve used this sling all over the globe, from the United States to Thailand and South Korea. The front pocket is a solid place to stow quick-use items like sunglasses and hand sanitizer, and the main compartment works well for the bulk of our gear like a wallet and battery bank. This is a great sling if you’re into organization but still like having the freedom to store large items, as there’s plenty of room leftover for bulky gear like a hat and gloves. In addition to intuitive storage, this pack stands on its own thanks to a flat base and has an easy-to-use magnetic FIDLOCK buckle on the strap.

The primary material is 1680D CORDURA® Ballistic Nylon, which is highly durable, water-resistant, and gives the sling a sleek look that looks good in pretty much any setting. There’s an X-Pac version, too, which is ideal if you’re looking for something more lightweight, though it sounds a bit crunchy in our experience. The zippers are from YKK, and the other hardware is from Duraflex, which are two of the best brands in the business.

Why We Like It

• The flat base enables it to stand up, so it’s easy to load up before leaving home
• The materials and hardware are incredibly durable

What You Should Know

• There’s no organization in the front pocket, so you may need to fish around for what you need
• We’ve had experience with the FIDLOCK buckle coming disengaged while we’re wearing the sling, though it’s not often enough to cause major concerns

If you’re looking for a smaller sling that you can take anywhere, the Bellroy Venture Ready Sling 2.5L might be the best sling bag for your next trip. It has Bellroy’s signature look: durable materials, capable hardware, and a thin strap that you’ll either love or wish had more padding. We think it’s enough because the sling’s size is pretty proportional to the strap, but it’s worth considering if you prefer extra cushion.

The primary material here is Bellroy’s Canva Ripstop, which feels a little rough in the hand but offers high durability and excellent water resistance. That’s paired with YKK AquaGuard zippers, which ensure no water sneaks through the openings in the pack. To top it all off, the self-compression design helps create a natural sleek look no matter how packed out the sling is, which we dig.

Inside, we’ve got two compartments to work with. The secondary pocket has a divider in the center, making it easy to segment small gear rather than it getting jumbled together. As for the main compartment, it’s a simple design with just enough organization to keep your items in check, including a structured slip pocket for your phone and a raised zippered pocket to keep your sunglasses from getting crushed. The 2.5L capacity is the perfect amount to stow all the gear you’d typically keep in your pockets (plus a little extra) to ensure your day is comfortable, whether walking to get Gelato or hiking up a mountain.

Bellroy has multiple Venture slings in multiple sizes, though they have a slightly different design to this one from the Venture Ready line, which is designed to handle more rugged adventures. That said, we like those other slings, too, so you’ve got plenty of size options if this 2.5L sling is a bit too small.

• The self-compression strap ensures a comfortable fit, no matter how packed out the sling is
• There’s a divider in the front pocket which helps organize small gear
• We’ve experienced the magnetic buckle coming disengaged when pushed at a specific angle
• Though they’re not uncomfortable, the materials are a bit more rugged than we often see in slings

If you’re into versatility, now’s your time to shine. This sling bag is more of a 4-in-1 all-purpose pouch that can be carried as a sling, as a waist pack, with a handle loop, or attached to a key ring (which can then be hooked to a bag or your belt). Or, remove the strap entirely and use it as a 3D organizer in your luggage, as it’s just the right size for toiletries, tech, jewelry, and the like.

That said, this is a guide to help you find the best sling bag for your next trip, so we’ll focus on that. The front pocket is simple and works well for stowing a passport or other quick-use items. Meanwhile, the main compartment has two liner pockets, which are perfect for your wallet, phone, or headphones. Plus, in trademark TOM BIHN fashion, there are four O-rings throughout the bag. These are handy for attaching additional pouches to hold smaller gear you don’t want to lose in the depths of the main compartment, like ChapStick or dongles.

In typical TOM BIHN fashion, there are tons of material and colorway choices available. They’re constantly adding and switching out specifics, so we won’t dive into them. Since TOM BIHN is a leader in durable, well-engineered gear, you really can’t go wrong with any of the options. Simply put, they make gear to last through the materials they utilize, the designs they employ, and the hardware that brings it all together.

TOM BIHN’s style may feel as if it’s stuck in the 1990s, but we’re all in for a hint of nostalgia and their gear’s durability, combining to make this one of the best sling bag models on the market.

• The materials, hardware, and design are durable and timeless, so you’ll have this sling for years without it going out of style
• You can customize the interior using O-rings to attach extra pouches
• The design can feel more like a handbag than a sling
• The strap gets twisted fairly easily

As the name describes, the second iteration of the Peak Design Everyday Sling 3L is meant to be used as a daily driver, whether you’re commuting to work or crossing the globe. Before we dive too far into this particular model, it’s worth noting that there are 6L and 10L versions of this bag, too, so you can size up if you feel that three liters is too limiting.

The exterior is crafted from 100% recycled 400D double poly-coated and DWR-impregnated nylon canvas, which is a fancy way of saying that it’s highly durable and water-resistant. The zippers were created in a partnership between Peak Design and Zoom, meaning they were designed to be used exclusively on Peak Design packs, so it’s no surprise that they work so well.

There’s an exterior pocket with no organization, which is a stellar spot to stow camera accessories if you’re using this as a photography bag or pocketable items like a phone or wallet. The main compartment was designed to be versatile, offering storage for a mirrorless camera and two small lenses (or one larger one), but you can utilize it for your everyday carry gear, too. There’s a quick-grab pocket that has organization for smaller gear, like chargers or adapters.

Whether you’re a seasoned photographer looking for a bag to take on your next trip or looking for something to commute across the city with to get to work, this is one of the best sling bag models on the market regarding durability, weather resistance, and versatility.

• The exterior is designed to protect your gear from the elements—an essential feature of a camera-focused bag
• It can be used to stow camera gear or everyday carry equipment
• We’ve noticed that the back panel won’t sit flat against your body when the bag is completely full, which impacts carry comfort
• Oblong-shaped items stored in the front compartment can make it look bulky

The Mission Workshop Spar Sling is one of the larger packs on this list, coming in at eight liters. In fact, it’s so large that it can fit up to a 15-inch laptop, too. Are you interested yet? We thought you might be.

The exterior is crafted from Dimension Polyant VX-07 Diamond Ripstop or 500D Multicam® CORDURA®, depending on your chosen colorway. Both are durable, highly water resistant, and give the pack a sleek look. It’s heavier than other slings of this size that we’ve tested, but the strap does a great job balancing the weight.

There’s only a little organization present here; however, for a sling of this style, we prefer it like that. Eight liters is a lot for a sling, but considering it can carry your laptop, there’s probably a lot of gear you want to bring alongside your computer. If there was a ton of segmentation, your gear might be more organized, but you wouldn’t be able to fit as much inside because you’d be confined to the size of the included pockets. With this sling, you can fit your computer, charger, and other everyday carry and tech items inside for trips to the coffee shop, office, or back home after a long day of exploring—maybe just store small gear in a couple of pouches to keep it from getting jumbled together.

Plus, you can wear the Mission Workshop Spar Sling in sling, crossbody, or messenger modes, so you can switch things up if one way becomes uncomfortable. Considering its size and versatility, this might be the best sling bag for your next trip. Or, one bag it, and see what you can’t live without!

• You can fit up to a 15″ laptop inside
• There are three carry methods to meet your specific travel needs
• It’s heavy compared to slings of a similar size we’ve tested
• There isn’t a ton of organization, so you’ll need to DIY it with pouches and cubes

You’ve come to the right place if you’re looking for a lightweight mini sling. The Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Mini Hip Pack has just a liter of capacity; however, its 3.5-ounce weight makes it a versatile travel companion. It’s crafted from ripstop nylon, which is lightweight, durable, and water-resistant.

The front pocket is just big enough to stow a pair of headphones, a small charging cable, or a pack of gum. You’ll find more organization in the main compartment for large gear, and there’s a zippered pocket items you want to keep separate. There isn’t much segmentation here, which we’re not mad about, because too much organization would take up valuable space in this tiny sling. Since it’s so small, you can pack it into your carry on luggage or travel backpack and take it out once you arrive at your destination to carry around the city.

To assist in that plight, the Ultralight Black Hole Mini Hip Pack packs into its own pocket, fitting into the palm of your hand once zipped up. This makes it easier to bring it on a trip if you don’t know whether you’ll need it or not. No matter where you’re going, who doesn’t need a little extra space?

• It packs into itself to save space in your travel bag, which is handy if you’re not a frequent sling user on trips
• The ripstop design adds durability to the lightweight material, so you don’t sacrifice weight for reliability
• The look is somewhat sporty, so it’s difficult to dress up with an outfit
• It can be challenging to fit gear into the small pocket

The Heimplanet Transit Line Sling Pocket may look large upon initial inspection, but it comes in at a singular liter because of how thin it is. The primary external materials are 800D nylon and 660D polypropylene DYECOSHELL, which is a sustainably sourced, durable material that gives the sling a speckled look. It’s durable as heck, too, which we’re here for. After nine months of use, we’ve noticed some slight fraying on the edges of the fabric, but it isn’t compromising the sling—it’s more of an aesthetic issue.

There’s ample organization inside the main compartment considering this sling’s capacity, which makes stowing and finding your wallet, phone, or tiny tech (think headphones or charger) easy. For this reason, we love taking this sling onto a flight as a personal item. It won’t weigh you down or cause discomfort, but you can still stow and find all of the gear you need pretty quickly. Because it’s so tiny, the carry can sometimes feel lopsided if you have something heavy on one side of the sling. That said, as you get used to carrying this thing, you can remedy that issue by finding where your gear best rests to offset weight distribution.

• The organization is thoughtful and doesn’t get in the way, which is a rarity for such a tiny sling
• The materials and hardware are durable despite some cosmetic damage over the course of our testing
• Heavier items can create an unbalanced carry experience
• The edges of the fabric will start to fray over time

The Chrome Industries Kadet is a cross between a messenger bag and a sling bag, which means that it has features from both that make it a candidate for the best sling bag. At nine liters, there’s a ton of space to work with. However, that also means it has a pretty big footprint, which may be challenging for those with small frames to get used to. It’s 17 inches on the long edge, which is as tall as some capable daypacks we’ve tested.

The exterior is clad with 1050D nylon and YKK zippers, which have held up well in our testing. The buckle is Chrome Industries’ trademark seat belt style, which offers a unique heritage style along with a durable, reliable closure.

The secondary compartment has no organization but is fairly large, so you can stow daily items you might want quick access to here. Think sunglasses, a phone, a wallet, or a transit card. You won’t find much more organization inside the main compartment. There’s a divider pocket for a tablet or book and a few smaller iterations that work well for everyday carry gear like a bike tool or flashlight. The rest of the space is yours to work with, meaning there’s enough room for a packable rain jacket, tech pouch, or other large gear.

The Chrome Industries Kadet is a solid bet if you’re okay with heavier materials and minimal organization. Seriously, this thing is durable, and you can fit a ton of gear inside. This might be the best sling bag for rugged adventures or those with a tough commute.

• The materials are durable, and the hardware is unique (especially if you like seat belt buckles!)
• The main compartment has a ton of space for stowing large items that won’t fit in most sling bags
• It’s very long, so it may feel too large on smaller-framed travelers
• The lack of organization can be overwhelming for those who are used to every piece of gear having a home

If you were around in the early 2000s, you might remember a fad where kids were wearing sling-style backpacks to school. Many popular brands made them, and you were only cool if you had one. If you couldn’t get one back then, there’s still time! Enter the Patagonia Atom Sling.

This thing offers a hint of nostalgia paired with Patagonia’s commitment to making durable gear with a purpose. The high-tenacity nylon is partially recycled and perfect for more rugged trips. On the other side, the shoulder strap and back panel are amply padded and aerated to promote comfort, whether crossing the city or taking a strenuous day hike. For gear that won’t fit inside, there’s a compression system on the pack’s front where you can attach items like a rain jacket or small tripod.

The quick-grab pocket is perfect for snacks, your phone, or your wallet. Inside the main compartment is a tablet sleeve and ample open space to stow whatever else you need for the day, from a tech pouch to a bag of chips.

The shoulder strap can only be worn on your right shoulder, which you might remember if you had one of these in middle school. Similar to the weight of textbooks, travel gear can get heavy, which can cause discomfort during long days of wandering around a new place. You can always wear it on your front side to relieve any stress your right shoulder might be experiencing, but we think that looks goofy. To each their own, though.

• There’s ample padding on the back panel and shoulder strap to increase carry comfort
• The simple organization because it’s still effective in keeping your gear organized
• You can only wear it over your right shoulder, so lefties may want to look elsewhere
• It has a sporty look that’s hard to make look, well, not sporty

The Trakke Banana Crossbody Bag is a unique sling bag for several reasons. First, it’s named after a fruit. We feel healthier just thinking about it! Next, it’s crafted from waxed canvas, which isn’t something we see super often. Last, it’s handcrafted in Scotland, which is the conversation starter you never knew you needed!

The waxed canvas looks sleek and is super durable, though it tends to stay wet once it gets wet, so it isn’t the best choice for climates that see a lot of rain. You can wear it as a crossbody bag or a hip pack, which is ideal for travel because it’s more versatile. The strap doesn’t offer padding or aeration, which is something to consider if you prefer a plush carry experience.

There’s just a small zippered pocket on the back and one large compartment, and you’re pretty much left to your devices when it comes to organization. The space isn’t the easiest to utilize, as the tapered design creates harsh corners where it’s hard to fit gear. That said, once you get the hang of using the shape, the carry is comfortable enough to outweigh not having dedicated internal organization, we think. The look, materials, and unique features make this one of the best sling bag models on the market.

• The waxed canvas exterior gives it a unique heritage look
• It’s made very well—you’re paying for longevity with this sling
• Its banana shape takes some getting used to when it comes to figuring out where to store your gear
• The materials take a while to dry after getting soaking wet, so avoid carrying this thing in heavy rain

Here at Pack Hacker, we find that a middle-sized sling is typically best for travel because it’s small enough to be packed into another bag and large enough to carry more than what you’d typically keep in your pockets. Inside this happy middle ground at 3.5 liters is the EVERGOODS Mountain Hip Pack, or MHP3.5. It’s a comfortable size to hold all your everyday carry gear without feeling bulky on your body.

If you’ve been looking for a comfortable sling, you’re going to want to listen up. The back panel is amply padded for carry comfort whether it’s in sling or waist pack mode, there’s plenty of material to create a strong attachment between the pack and the carry strap, and it’s easy to adjust on the fly to find the right fit.

There’s a pass-through channel on the pack’s front that works well for a water bottle, jacket, or other medium-sized item. The secondary (rear) pocket has a vertical-style organizer with multiple pockets to ensure all your gear has a home. Moving into the main compartment, there’s ample space for a packable jacket, small water bottle, tech pouch, or other medium-to-large-sized items. For a sling bag that only touts 3.5 liters, you can fit a ton of gear inside, making it a versatile travel companion, no matter where your journey takes you!

• The beefy harness system creates a comfortable carry in crossbody and hip pack modes
• There’s a ton of room for storing large and small gear without throwing them all into the main compartment
• It’s looks pretty big on your body considering for its liter size compared to other slings we’ve tested
• Though it’s designed to be a hip pack, it works great as a sling

Don’t let a broken sling bag break your heart. Choose one that will keep up.

Finding a Dependable Sling Bag for Travel and EDC

We’re partial to small slings since they are, point blank, the best for travel. Small slings are more comfortable to carry, easier to pack inside a larger travel backpack, and will be considered a personal item on most airlines (in the States, anyway). At some size, a sling bag just becomes an uncomfortable backpack.

While a sling’s size is measured in liters, the liter size of a sling bag can vary from company to company. One brand’s 5 liters is another brand’s 2 liters (exasperating, right? Get it together, people!). So it’s equally important to consider the shape of the sling bag, the internal organization, and the thickness of the material—all of which will impact the amount of usable space available. Let’s break that down.

Volume & Size

We know we just said judging a sling bag by liters isn’t the most accurate way to determine volume, but it still works well as a benchmark. We recommend staying between one and eight liters and keeping the weight less than four, maybe five, pounds—this weight includes your stuff, of course. Since a sling bag wears over one shoulder, a big, heavy sling may, at best, get too uncomfortable to carry, and at worst, hurt your back. Plus, it’ll look awfully strange sitting across the chest.

Some sling bags are expandable, which is excellent for travel since they’ll take up little space when not in use or when you don’t have much to carry—but you can still fill them with a decent amount of stuff when expanded. This trick works well on small sling bags but can be overkill on bigger ones, which expand to be comically bulky.

With an expandable main compartment, the CODEOFBELL X-Pod works equally well on days when you only need the essentials and on trips where you want everything but the kitchen sink. Plus, it never looks too bulky and manages to stay comfortable even when fully packed—an impressive feat we don’t often see.

The profile of a sling bag has a significant impact on its overall look and comfort level. Most sling bags have an oblong shape to better fit the chest and back. As we mentioned earlier, sometimes hip packs try to be sling bags—some are even successful at it—but they won’t be nearly as contoured to the chest and can hang in such a way as to look unbalanced.

With sling bags, you’ll usually find one of two orientations: tall or wide. They’re both equally great options that work better or worse for different use-cases and style preferences.

Tall sling bags are just that—tall—and wear more like a purse or mini-backpack. As you would expect, they work well for things that you want to pack vertically, say a phone case with bunny ears. Tall sling bags aren’t usually tight against the body, nor can they only be worn on your back.

This sling bag can be carried crossbody or as a hip pack with the same strap. Whichever you choose, the horseshoe zipper makes it easy to get to your gear, and the vertical orientation allows you to get a decent look inside the bag and squeeze in your hand without too much trouble.

If you want to look like you don’t know how to wear a fanny pack correctly, then a wide sling may be your style of choice. That’s to say, they are more closely related to the fanny pack in the looks department, for better or worse, and usually sit tightly against the body.

Chrome Industries prides itself on its unique, recognizable designs. And this sling bag is definitely unique. Its oblong shape is reminiscent of the typical fanny pack, but its larger size, seat belt buckle, and stiff shape are all its own. It can overwhelm smaller frames—particularly when full—but it’ll hold all of the essentials and then some.

Weather Resistance

You’ll likely carry important gear in your sling bag such as your cell phone, money, and passport. Unless you’ve got special powers that allow you to avoid rain and snow indefinitely, a bit of weather resistance is a major plus, as it will protect those essential items from damage. Plus, a weather-resistant sling can be wiped down quickly, meaning you won’t have to wear a sopping wet bag against your chest—not a fun experience.

On the other hand, too much weatherproofing is overkill. Full-blown waterproof or super weather-resistant materials are built for just that—resisting water. Generally speaking, they’re not going to hold up to everyday use as well as other fabrics (more on that below), and they may not look as nice or feel as comfortable on your back/chest.

If push comes to shove and you need to protect your sling from a sudden rainstorm, they’re usually small enough to fit under a rain jacket. Just beware—people may think you are either smuggling a small animal under your coat or have a bizarrely shaped chest. (This could be a pro or con depending on your personality.)

A sling bag designed to carry your essential tech—small laptops included—better have some weather resistance. The ALPAKA Bravo Sling Max V2 doesn’t disappoint, with high-quality, durable fabric and weather-resistant zippers.

Sling Bag Durability & Quality

With the popularity of sling bags on an exponential rise, you’ll find sling bags ranging from ten bucks to thousands. While we don’t recommend going out and buying a sling bag that costs as much as a car (unless you have money to burn), we do recommend purchasing a sling made of durable, high-quality materials—and that may cost you more than ten bucks.

That said, the same fabric that’s ideal for a travel backpack can be a bit much on a sling bag. You have to balance durability with weight and interior capacity. When you’re looking at quality, be sure to pay attention to:

A broken zipper may lead to a broken heart while traveling. That may sound dramatic, but if you’ve ever had a zipper break on you while abroad, you’ll know exactly what we mean. We usually trust zippers from YKK, RiRi, and SAB—all of which have solid track records for making quality products, our favorite being the Japanese manufacturer, YKK. YKK zippers have rarely let us down, even when we’ve put them through the wringer over years and years of testing. They account for about half of all the zippers in the world for a reason.

Beyond the brand, it’s important to consider size, which is measured on a scale of one (small) to ten (large). While the main zippers on sling bags fall all over this spectrum, the most common sizes are #5 or #8—seriously, out of the 50 + slings we’ve tested, a very, very high majority have either #5 or #8 zippers. Anything less than a five and you’ll likely run into durability issues.

With sling bags, you also don’t need—or want—anything too beefy, like a #10 zipper. If they’re too big, the zips can jingle, which gets annoying for us around the five-minute mark. Maybe you’re more patient than we are. Larger zippers can also rub against your chest or back, which is just as uncomfortable as it sounds.

Some companies purposefully design their sling bags with oversized zippers or zipper teeth to look extra dope. If you’re into this aesthetic, you may have to get used to the jingling. Fashion is pain and all that.

For the zippers on internal or less-frequented pockets, you’ll be okay with a smaller size. They can also help with the aforementioned weather resistance. When looking at zippers, you may see the letters RC stamped next to the size (#5RC, #8RC, etc.). RC stands for reverse coil, a term that describes zippers with internally—rather than externally—facing teeth, which helps prevent water from percolating into the bag. But a reverse coil zipper isn’t that water-resistant. So don’t go thinking it’ll protect your phone in a monsoon.

For further protection, there are water-repellent zippers—like the YKK AquaGuard zipper—which have a thin polyurethane coating to, you know, repel water. If you’re planning on going to an unusually wet area with your sling bag, then you may want to look for this style of zipper. Otherwise, you’ll likely be fine without that extra water resistance.

Buckles are a major component of most sling bags, and if there’s no buckle, there will be some sort of clip. You don’t want the hardware to break on you because that’ll make the sling practically useless. Unless you MacGyver up a big knot, which will help with the usefulness but, let’s be real, look totally ridiculous.

Again, the brand matters here. Some trustworthy companies are Duraflex, YKK, Woojin, and ITW. As long as you stick with them, you should be good to go. We also love metal buckles—as opposed to plastic—but when it comes to slings, they can be uncomfortable and add a good bit of weight. If durability is a priority however, metal buckles can’t be beaten.

Fabric & Material

Unlike in the 1800s—or even the mid-1900s—bag designers (engineers?) have a ton of fabrics to choose from to make their bags, all of which have pros and cons. As we’ve already mentioned, you want to balance durability with weight and capacity. A sling bag won’t have to do as much work as a travel backpack; therefore, it doesn’t have to be as tough. Some materials you may run into are:

Ballistic Nylon

Ripstop Nylon

CORDURA® Grade Fabrics (Nylon & Polyester)

While this isn’t a comprehensive list of all of the fabrics you’ll run into while shopping (sorry sailcloth and polypropylene) a majority of sling bags will be made with one or multiple of the materials mentioned above. But the material itself isn’t the be-all, end-all.

Usually, you’ll see a number followed by a D associated with the material—250D, 950D, 1000D, etc. The D stands for denier, which is the unit that measures the weight or thickness of fabric. In general, the higher the number, the more durable the fabric—but higher numbers also mean higher weight.

Because every fabric has its individual strengths (nylon is inherently stronger than polyester) the denier won’t help you much when comparing two different types of fabrics, or even two types of weaves within one fabric family. Instead, it helps you compare two fabrics of the same type. 500D Ballistic nylon is less durable than 1000D Ballistic nylon, for example. But the 500D Ballistic nylon will also be much lighter (about half as light, in fact!).

When it comes to sling bags, higher denier is generally better, but you start maxing out around 500D. As far as we’re concerned, any fabric over 500D is a bit overkill for a sling bag. As you get up into the 500D range, the weight of the fabric will start to become more substantial, but because sling bags are small—and thus don’t have a lot of fabric—you’ll hardly be able to notice this difference in weight. And because sling bags don’t take as much abuse as, say, a full-blown travel backpack, we don’t think the extra durability of 500D+ fabrics is necessary.

Moreover, the other aspects of a sling bag, including its zippers and hardware, also have to be high-quality. It does you no good if your ballistic nylon exterior has held up if your zippers break on week three. Best to keep everything well-rounded.

Bordering on too durable, the Aer City Sling 2 is made of some tough stuff—1680D CORDURA® Ballistic nylon, to be precise. If you’re looking for a sling bag that will keep up while you roam the world, this one should be on your radar.

Where Fashion Meets Convenience.

Choosing the Best Sling Bag for Your Use-Case

Besides keeping you trendy, sling bags are awesome because they’re convenient. That convenience becomes obsolete if it’s uncomfortable, hard to access, or doesn’t properly fit your use-case. Here are some things to keep in mind when you’re considering investing in your soon-to-be favorite new accessory.

Sling bag straps are generally made of nylon webbing, but all vary in length and width. Smaller sling bags tend to have thin straps, while heavier backpack-style slings tend to have thick straps. Pretty straightforward so far. But length and width aren’t the only elements you need to pay attention to.

First of all, let’s talk about padding. Some sling bags have zero padding, while others are nearly as padded as the resume of a recent college grad. Padded straps are usually—but not always—found on bigger sling bags to help make carrying that much weight more comfortable.

As a general rule, we’re not too keen on thick, padded straps. They tend to give you awkward sweaty patches and can only help so much with comfort. As we already mentioned, once you reach a certain size of sling bag they become uncomfortable to carry regardless of how fancy the strap. Not to mention, bigger straps weigh more.

We’re fans of thinner straps or ones that are somewhere in the middle of the padding spectrum. We’re especially happy when straps are designed in such a way that they’re thicker or more padded only on those places where it’ll touch your body. That way, the sling isn’t bogged down by over-specced straps as far as design and weight are concerned.

The Osprey Daylite Sling knows that it’s a sling bag—meaning the strap has enough padding to make the carry comfortable, but nothing overboard. The padding is soft and kind to clothing, though it can get sweaty on long excursions. There’s also a small mesh pocket on the strap for items you want to access quickly and a nylon loop for attaching water bottles.

Additionally, some sling bags have detachable straps, allowing you to transform the bag into an organizer pouch for toiletries, electronics, your sticker collection, or whatever else you need to organize. We’re always fans of traveling with items that serve more than one purpose to save space and weight. A pouch/sling bag combo is one great way to do that, and detachable straps are virtually identical to non-detachable straps—so there aren’t really any downsides. These are particularly great for one bag travel, as you can use the pouch as a packing cube/organizer in your larger backpack and then take it out and throw a strap on for your flight or a day out.

Because the straps of this sling easily detach, it doubles as a pouch. Throw in some toiletries or tech and leave it in your travel backpack. Then, when you arrive and it’s time to explore a new city, reattach the straps and use it for all your everyday carry essentials. It’s a win-win-win.

Types of Sling Straps

The straps on sling bags have a major influence on the style of the bag. It would be like if the only difference between a backpack and a duffel is the strap. So, let’s check out the various strap styles you’re likely to run into.

The Traditional Strap

The Traditional Strap Example

You’ll likely see traditional sling bag straps when you hit the trails. Major outdoor brands like Patagonia and Osprey sell these kinds of slings, which have a single, thick strap that looks like one you’d find on a backpack, but sits on one shoulder and lies asymmetrically across the chest.

A sling bag with a traditional style of strap is designed to be worn across your back and can’t be worn on your chest or hips. Unfortunately, most of these straps are designed to be worn across the same shoulder every time. That means the carry can become uncomfortable on long excursions, dumping all the weight of the bag onto one side. But they’re nice for quick jaunts since the strap stays in place—even as you bounce along a trail.

The Kavu Rope Sling has an outdoorsy look and a handful of organization for ultimate comfort on the trails. Keep bigger gear close at hand, though it does take a little practice to get the packing strategy right.

The New Wave Strap

The New Wave Strap Example

New wave sling bag straps are usually simple, thin, and attach to the body of the sling bag at the edges width-wise (new wave straps go hand-in-hand with wide sling bags). And they’re designed to be worn both on the chest or back. We’ve coined them “new wave” because these straps are the ones that catapulted sling bags into being a mainstream fashion accessory. They’re truly the “new wave” of sling bags (aren’t we clever?).

The way the straps are anchored to the bag and the way the buckles buckle make it so most new wave straps can’t be worn comfortably on the hips. Sure, with some combination of magic, innovation, and true grit, you could probably force a few of them to sit on your hips, but that’s not what they’ve been engineered to do.

The Tortuga Travel Sling looks like it’s more versatile than it is. While it looks like you could sling it around your hips, the straps are anchored in such a way that it can only be worn successfully on the chest or back. Even without the ability to wear the sling as a hip pack, it’s one of the best slings for travel due to its small size, internal organization, and low weight.

The Hip Pack-Style Strap

The Hip Pack-Style Strap Example

Listen up—because this part is kind of tricky. At first glance, the hip pack-style strap will look eerily similar to the new wave style of strap. The main difference is that the hip pack style of strap can be worn slung around the hips (as well as across the chest). They’re the most versatile in terms of function, but they also scream “fanny pack.” So much so, your dad may ask you why you busted out his old fanny pack and are now wearing it incorrectly. (Obviously, he just doesn’t understand fashion.)

Small and lightweight, lululemon advertises the Everywhere Belt Bag as a fanny pack, but we think it makes a comfortable sling bag too. Mainly because the strap is wider than it needs to be and the buckle is off-center to make it easier to reach. Whichever way you wear it, the bag also has some mesh pockets and a rear security pocket, making it ideal for festivals and travel alike.

The Crossbody Strap

The Crossbody Strap Example

This style of strap is a long piece of webbing that can sit crossbody or be thrown over one shoulder. It’s similar to a purse strap, although usually thinner and without any decorative elements.

The Fjallraven Greenland Pocket has a thin crossbody strap that’s super simple to tighten or loosen—so you can wear it close to your chest or let it hang, depending on where you’re traveling and your mood. But the strap is rough and may damage more delicate items of clothing.

The Lefty Strap

The Lefty Strap Example

Lefties make up only 10% of the population and thus can be ignored by companies who’d rather reach the majority of consumers (sorry, lefties. The truth hurts).

Sometimes, we’ve found that it’s easier to adapt to the right-handed world and use sling bags designed for right-handers. That said, there are a few sling bags that may work better for those of you who are aware that left-handed scissors exist.

These lefty-inclusive sling bags have straps that can be anchored on either side of the bag, allowing you to wear it across whichever shoulder you’d like. That way, if you’re left-handed, you can wear it on your left shoulder, so when you “sling” the bag forward, your left hand is ready to work the zippers.

But, these straps don’t always mean a sling is ideal for lefties. Pocket orientation matters, too. It won’t do you any good to wear the sling on your left shoulder if all the pockets will be facing the ground. There are some sling bags out there with either symmetrical pockets or pockets for lefties.

Thoughts on Buckles

We’ve talked about buckles before, but they’re worth mentioning a second time. They contribute to the look, feel, function, and style of a sling bag nearly as much as the straps do.

The first question worth asking is, “Where is the buckle located?”

If the buckle is centered, that means the sling bag can almost always be worn on either shoulder or around the hips. But a centered buckle isn’t ideal if you’re planning on wearing your sling bag with a backpack. The backpack’s weight can cause the sling’s buckle to dig into your back (ouch), and you won’t be able to easily detach it without first taking off your backpack.

If the buckle is off-center (usually on the right side), the sling bag works best on one shoulder. Meaning you won’t be able to switch between the two if one ever gets tired. In some cases, you can technically wear it on whatever shoulder you want, but it will likely sit uncomfortably on one side, or the buckle will end up in an awkward place that’s hard to access with your dominant hand (sorry lefties, this one will impact you more often).

You should also pay attention to the size of the buckle. The larger it gets, the more uncomfortable it’ll wear. But that’s not always a dealbreaker. Larger buckles can look pretty damn fly, they’ll last longer, and they’re usually easier to clip/unclip for people who can’t be bothered with slow buckles.

Finally, you’ll want to ask yourself if you plan to wear your sling bag as a hip pack every once and a while. Some buckles don’t allow for this dual functionality.

The stainless steel buckles on the Trakke Largo Sling could be considered slightly over-specced for a bag this small, but we’re not complaining. These buckles are ultra-durable, they allow you to wear the sling bag comfortably as a hip pack, and they let you wear it over either shoulder (lefties, that one’s for you!). Plus, it’s a fresh look that helps give this sling its heritage vibe.

Thoughts on Back Panels

Whether or not you should care about the back panel on a sling bag depends on how it fits your body. Boxier sling bags wear more like a purse or messenger bag, so you won’t want or need anything fancy. You can run into trouble, however, with sling bags that hug the body. These can leave awkward sweat patches and rub against your clothing, causing pilling.

To help alleviate those issues, some sling bags come equipped with mesh back panels, most commonly found on outdoor-oriented or backpack-style sling bags.

Some sling bags don’t have that fancy mesh but do have a bit of cushioning or padding for added comfort. Usually, the padding makes for a more comfortable carry but can exacerbate the sweat problem.

And some sling bags, especially the smaller ones, have neither mesh nor padding. We’re alright with that—as long as the bag is truly on the smaller end.

Typical for Hydro Flask, the Slingback Bottle Pack has been designed to shine in the great outdoors. You’ll find soft, padded, and breathable mesh on both the back panel and shoulder strap. If you’re anything like us, you’ll still get sweaty on your way to the peak, but it has better airflow than many slings out there (especially for its size).

Thoughts on Organization

In our years of testing gear, we’ve come to realize that organization is one of those things that’s very personal. Some people like bags with large, empty compartments while others are offended when there’s not a spot for each one of their fancy pens.

You can find sling bags all along that spectrum. Some are basically exterior pockets with zero organization, while others have pockets on pockets on pockets. Again, what’s best for you depends on your use-case and what you’re going to be carrying.

Lots of smaller items? You’ll probably want those organized. A few bigger things? Too much organization could annoy you. For most people, you’ll want something in the middle. We love a main compartment with two to three interior pockets and an additional front or back pocket. But, again, think through your situation.

One great feature to look for is a hidden pocket, which will usually sit on the side of the sling bag that’s against your body. This pocket is the ideal place to stash essential items like your passport, credit cards, or cash.

This Minaal sling has several pockets of varying sizes, so you’ll find a spot for everything—a passport, travel sunglasses, a battery bank, wallet, snacks, you name it. There’s even a security pocket for hiding cash and cards!

Specialist Sling Bags

Most sling bags fall into the travel/outdoors/EDC realm, but some have dared to be different. These specialist sling bags to work for very specific use cases (hence the whole “specialist” thing). We’ll briefly run through these sling bags here, so you’re not caught off-guard if you ever encounter one in the wild.

Secure Sling Bags

Chances are you’re going to be carrying some pretty important stuff in your sling bag—and this time, we’re not talking about snacks. We mean things like your passport, keys, and cash. While we do think some common sense can go a long way towards keeping your valuables safe on the road, we get that security features can help with overall peace of mind. Secure sling bags will likely have a number of features to prevent thieves from gaining quick access, including lockable zippers, hidden or lockable buckles, slash-proof straps, tear-proof fabrics, and RFID-blocking technology.

The trade-off here is that most secure sling bags look like secure sling bags. They also weigh more than their less safe counterparts, and they won’t be quite as accessible. Still, peace of mind is peace of mind.

The Pacsafe Vibe 325 Anti-Theft Sling Pack is a tough sling that’s slash-proof, RFID-blocking, and lockable. The strap feels a bit bulky, but it’ll give you peace of mind that your stuff will be safe on the road.

Camera Sling Bags

When you want to snap pictures of your epic adventures but don’t plan on lugging around a full camera kit with different lenses and battery packs, a camera sling bag could be your new best friend. These allow you to carry a good amount of camera accessories without having to be worn down by an entire backpack. If you’re partial to point and shoot cameras, you can probably stick with any old sling bag, though camera-focused gear never hurts.

Camera sling bags usually have soft internal padding, durable and weather-resistant external materials, some adjustable inserts/dividers, and lots of organization. Some even have multiple access points. Plus, they’re still sling bags, so getting to your gear is quick and easy. Sling the sling to your chest, zip it open, grab your camera, and you’re good to go.

Camera sling bags vary wildly in size with some being as large as a backpack. At that point, we’d recommend just wearing a backpack for better weight distribution. Seriously, a heavy camera sling bag gets uncomfortable and bulky fast.

The Peak Design Everyday Sling is a versatile, durable bag that will keep your camera and accessories safe and organized while you roam the world. Its FlexFold dividers allow you to customize the interior to suit your needs. We think it’s just the right size, allowing you to carry a good amount of gear without weighing you down.

Don’t judge a sling bag by its cover. Wait, no, do. Definitely judge a sling bag by its cover.

Navigating the Complex World of Sling Bag Styles

If you decide to wear a sling bag, even if it’s only for convenience, you’re making a fashion statement. What kind of fashion statement is up to you. If you’re going to a festival, you might want something flashy and trendy. If you’re using it for day trips abroad, you probably want something that doesn’t scream tourist. If you’re Paris Hilton, you probably want to opt for something fabulous and expensive. No matter who you are, we’ve found five common styles to look out for.

The Fanny Pack Look-Alike

By now, you hopefully understand that a sling bag is not the same thing as a hip pack. But they do share some of the same DNA. Sometimes, you’ll find a sling bag that looks identical to a hip pack with an oblong shape, simple strap, and centered buckle.

In some cases, this is purely a fashion statement, but we love this style of sling bag for travel since it tends to be the perfect size for essentials and won’t take up too much space in your pack when not in use. Plus, it can be worn with a backpack. Win, win, win.

• Heimplanet Transit Line Sling Pocket
• Trakke Banana Crossbody Bag
• lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag
• Bellroy Sling Mini
• ALPAKA Bravo Sling Mini

Outdoorsy & Athletic

The outdoorsy sling bag looks like it wants to be a backpack, but hasn’t eaten quite enough vegetables. It tends to be bigger than other sling bag styles and can only be worn on the back. Sporty and colorful, these sling bags have tourist written all over them. So unless you want to stand out, you probably won’t want to take one with you on your epic tour of the world’s cities. But with comfortable straps and back panels, they’re nice for short hikes and outdoor excursions.

• Osprey Daylite Shoulder Sling
• Patagonia Atom Sling
• Cotopaxi Chasqui 13L Sling (Cada Dia)
• The North Face Field Bag
• KAVU Rope Sling

Crossbody (The Purse or Murse)

Crossbody sling bags are the reason some people say sling bags are purses for men who are embarrassed to say they own a purse. It has a similar aesthetic to a purse, but with a longer strap and smaller body. They tend to have a more vertical orientation as well. We think crossbody slings work well for travel, although since they don’t sit as close to the body as other sling bags, may not feel as secure in a bustling metropolis or busy market.

• Topo Designs Mini Shoulder Bag
• Fjallraven Greenland Pocket
• Tom Bihn Small Cafe Bag
• Bellroy Lite Sacoche

While there are some sling bags out there that are seriously tactical (think Apocalypse ready), others just look tactical. While the former is probably better suited for outdoorsy things, the latter can be great for travel. Usually made of high-quality stuff, these bags are ready for whatever you throw at them.

• NITECORE SLB05
• 5.11 RUSH MOAB 6 Sling Pack
• Red Rock Rover Sling Pack

While Louis Vuitton and Prada sling bags fall under the fashion category, you don’t have to break the bank here (unless you want to, of course). Fashion sling bags are designed to impress with sleek zippers, unique straps, or other sophisticated design elements. Sometimes, although not always, this trendiness comes at a price—and that price is lower durability. That’s fine if your use-case is pretty low-impact, but if you’re planning to use your sling bag time and again while traveling the world, you may want to opt for another style.

• Bellroy City Pouch
• The North Face Isabella Hip Pack

It’s time to spread your wings and…choose a sling bag you’ll love! It’s as easy as one, two, three.

Forget the Best Sling Bag For Travel. Find the Best Sling Bag for YOU!

We would’ve loved to end this guide with “all that said, the best sling bag for travel is…” because, let’s be real, that would save us all a lot of time and effort. Unfortunately, there is no such thing as the best sling bag for travel. There is only the best sling bag for you . So, let’s review how you can choose a sling bag you’ll fall in love with. To make things extra easy, we’ve broken it up into three steps:

1. Decide Why You Want a Sling Bag

Planning on rocking your sling during Milan’s Fashion Week? Opt for a designer sling made with less durable materials. Planning on backpacking Southeast Asia for three years? You might want a sling that’ll last the entirety of the trip. Different sling bags are better or worse for different situations, so make sure to think through when you’ll be using your sling bag and for what. And make sure to consider every use-case—perhaps you’ll be visiting fashion week then backpacking through Thailand. Pick your sling bag accordingly.

2. Assess Quality & Function

Take a look at the elements of a sling bag and the quality of materials. Unless you get joy out of throwing things away, you’ll probably want a sling bag that’s going to last you a little while. Pay close attention to the sling bag’s fabric, zippers, buckles, and straps. An easy tip for assessing overall quality is to take a look at the company’s warranty. If a company is willing to stand behind its products and offer a meaty warranty, then you should be able to trust whatever they’re selling.

3. Choose Your Favorite Style

A sling bag is an accessory. A useful accessory, but an accessory nonetheless. So make sure you love how it looks. In the end, if you’re repulsed by how hideous your new sling bag is, it doesn’t matter that it’ll last you until 2075.

Alright! You’ve made it to the end, folks. You may have thought that a sling bag was only a fun twist on a resurgent trend from the ‘90s, but now you know it’s so much more. We deem thee an official sling bag expert.

Good luck with all your slinging adventures—and make sure to share any other sling bag tips you’ve learned with us and the rest of the Pack Hacker community.

P.S. If you want more, check out all of our gear reviews . We’re always testing and reviewing new sling bags, plus a bunch of other super dope stuff.

Author: Tom Wahlin

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

Every product was carefully curated by an Esquire editor. We may earn a commission from these links.

The Best Travel Bag Is Under $100

It's the only carry-on I'll ever use.

Welcome to The Esquire Endorsement . Heavily researched. Thoroughly vetted. These picks are the best way to spend your hard-earned cash.

Rarely do I use a product that so completely changes the way I function. When it came to travel , I was, like most people, a hard suitcase plus personal bag type of guy, but I'd heard about this Halfday Garment Duffel .

The whole marketing idea around a bag that's perfect for a wedding or other weekend getaways where you want to bring a nice jacket or full suit is what first caught my attention. Then I was invited to a destination wedding in Tuscany—10 days of travel, city excursions, country excursions, driving all over the boot, and a few formal drinks and dinners. It was perfect time to put this bag to the test. Holy shit, it is perfect.

Packing is a breeze.

Listen, I'm not usually a Travel Hacks guy, but this bag turned me into one. First, you don't have to worry about folding a suit. In fact, I've already forgotten how to do that. Second, It packs way more than I thought it would. My original intention was to pack this duffel as a carry on and check a suitcase. But when I laid out all my clothes and necessities, the only thing that couldn't fit in the duffel was my tennis shoes. Ok... What if I only brought this bag? I did some thinking, and consolidated a few things, and I had everything I needed (I think) for 10 days in Italy.

Post trip, I can say it actually packed everything I needed. I wore everything once, with only one hotel sink laundry session. I can't process how I did it, but I've done it every trip since. I'm a one bag guy now, and this is the one bag.

It's surprisingly durable.

Part of being The Only Bag You Need means it should also be capable of being checked luggage too. As for the quality being able to survive that endeavor, I wasn't confident at first. The outer material is 420-Denier, so I was a little worried the polyester wouldn't look so great after. Still, I tossed it on the conveyor belt and walked through the airport with nothing in my hands.

When I got it back, not a scratch. Everything held up well. I've checked it twice since, and same deal. It hasn't gotten any marks, the zipper, handles, and strap have held up. I'm really, really impressed.

The only issues I had with my bag were related though. The handles and strap weren't super padded, and some of the hardware was a bit flimsy. But since testing their original model, Halfday has since released a brand new version of the bag that addressed all those issues. (The new version is the one I've linked to throughout, so you won't have to worry about those things.) I already saw it in person, and it's all spot on—the handles, the strap, the hardware, everything. Thanks to those upgrades, I'm not on the fence about this thing anymore, you should buy it.

Shop $98, halfdaytravel.com

It actually, dare I say, looks good.

Another one of the issues I had coming into this review was the look. Even now I'll admit, this thing doesn't have that designer luxurious look. It's about on par with the duffels in its price range—which I'd say are from Patagonia or The North Face, and more outdoorsy brands. But honestly, I can't fault it. It looks simple, but it's inoffensive. The amazing design went into the functionality, not the form.

When I first tried this bag it came in about two colors, and now it comes in 10! It's unassuming, and will blend in anywhere you go. Plus, the hardware on the new version looks much bit nicer, and it goes a long way.

At the end of the day, you literally cannot find a better quality, better looking, and more functional bag out there for less than $100—I dare you.

Photography by Joe Lingeman. Prop styling by Andrea Bonin.

@media(max-width: 73.75rem){.css-1ktbcds:before{margin-right:0.4375rem;color:#FF3A30;content:'_';display:inline-block;}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-1ktbcds:before{margin-right:0.5625rem;color:#FF3A30;content:'_';display:inline-block;}} The Esquire Endorsement

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I Tried On Arket's Entire Spring Edit—Now I'm Obsessed With These 10 Items

Welcome to The Great Try-On. With spring well and truly in the air, we seized the opportunity to try on some of the best new-in pieces from some of your favourite brands, documenting the process along the way. We believe that the best way to shop online is to see an item IRL and to read candid reviews, so we hope that this leads you to your most successful purchases of the year.

I'm generally a big fan of Arket . Not everything suits me and my petite, 5'2'' frame, and I often think some things can have quite a hefty price tag. That being said , I genuinely don't think you can find better elevated staples anywhere else on the high street . Having shopped there regularly for around five years now for all my basics , from T-shirts to poplin shirts, as well as the odd bigger investment like a blazer or coat, I can attest to the fact that Arket buys really last. The quality for a high-street store is unmatched, and for someone with expensive taste and classic style, it's always the first place I turn to at the beginning of a new season. 

So when I found out I was going to be heading to Arket for our first-of-its-kind spring Great Try-On feature, I was more than happy to oblige. Up until now, my fellow Who What Wear editors and I have been in agreement that Arket does autumn/winter best.  The outerwear , modern tailoring and chunky boots are just excellent. But let me tell you—the new spring 2023 collection just showed up to prove us wrong. 

While we know Arket has a history of doing some key spring staples really well (like that   sellout striped knit ), the whole of this year's collection has left me with a rather sizeable shopping list. You'll still find plenty of these "perfect" bread-and-butter classics in the mix, from Bretons to trench coats. But I loved the modern touches that felt bang up-to-date, too, like the recently overhauled denim offering. I found the dream  slouchy jeans I've been searching for and a denim shirt that will surely only get better with age. Bouclé textures , skirts (mini and full), a designer-looking curved crossbody bag  and a ridiculously comfy  knitted maxi dress also made an appearance. 

At the behest of my local store, I tried on as much as I could smuggle into the changing rooms before the security guard started giving me funny looks. After taking into account my first reactions in the cubicle and considering the pieces I was still thinking about post-try-on, I've managed to pinpoint 10 of the best items that I would recommend. These are the styles that genuinely excited me and have been living in my mind rent-free ever since I left them in the store. I'd consider all of them capsule staples that I know I'd get so much wear out of for many seasons to come. Keep scrolling to see and shop my Arket spring picks…

1. Blazer + Relaxed Jeans

Blazer: size 10;  Jeans: size 28; T ank: size XS

My Review:  This isn't my first Arket-blazer rodeo. I actually own the original  Oversized Hopsack Blazer  in black and beige (honestly, it's the very best blazer of all time), but this style felt more tailored, and I thought this creamy neutral colour looked so expensive. Yes, I'm seriously considering buying it to add to my collection because you can never have enough blazers in my opinion.

The jeans were honestly a revelation. Previously, I'd been part of the "low-rise can stay in 2003" camp, but these felt like a grown-up gateway into trying the slouchy, low-slung denim trend for 2023. I'm always looking for really easy ways to add a cooler edge to my wardrobe of classics, and the jeans (and the cap and the designer-looking crossbody bag) absolutely ticked that box. I'm not sure I'm ready to pair the jeans with a cropped top and high-top Dunks like Gen Z, but with a slim tank top tucked in and the added polish of a blazer and pointed-toe shoes for balance, I'm well and truly convinced. My usual jeans size in Arket is a 28 (I'm a pretty standard size 10), and this style definitely comes oversized, as the waist was loose. I'm used to high-waisted vintage denim fits that you can barely breathe in, so my instinct was to say they were too big, but once I'd pulled them down to sit slightly lower on the hips, the slouchier fit worked. I'd probably only size down once. 

SHOP THE LOOK:

2. Denim Shirt + Cropped Straight Jeans

Shirt: size 8;  Jeans: size 28

My Review: While I've told you I mainly stick to classic capsule items, I must divulge that I can't resist a touch of Americana when the time is right. Suede jackets, cowboy boots and, for 2023 especially, denim shirts all have a place in my wardrobe for when I'm feeling the need to add a bit more personality to my outfits. If you hadn't already noticed from the runways, street style and your favourite influencers' IG feeds, double denim is back with a vengeance this year—not that I ever thought it went out. Arket has a couple of shirting options that are a really easy way to level up your go-to shirt-and-jeans look. This particular loose style is currently sold out online, but I also love the more fitted, darker style linked below that can tuck in easily. I also can't recommend these jeans enough if you're looking for a classic straight-leg style. They're comfy with a bit of stretch and work well for petites thanks to the cropped leg. They came home with me, as I've been looking for a pair that I can wear with loafers and ballet flats for spring.

3. Short Trench Coat

Jacket: size 8 

My Review: I already have a classic trench coat (if you don't, I recommend this perfect Arket style ), and I love the way the beige accent pulls together all of my spring outfits. But right now, shorter jackets are calling to me, probably because they pair so well with wide-leg trousers and jeans, and I've been curating a rather extensive collection of these over the past few years. If you're looking to switch up your spring outerwear, this light jacket is a great way to add a modern twist to such a classic. The neckline can be worn up or folded over, which I loved for added versatility! It fits oversized, so size down if you're petite or like a less relaxed fit. 

4. Poplin Shirt + Miniskirt

Shirt: size 8;  Skirt: size 10

My Review: Honestly, I'm a trouser girl at heart. Despite my shorter height, which makes it difficult to find lengths that fit, I've always felt that trousers make my legs look longer, while skirts and dresses can often make me feel too girlish. However, if 2022 was the year of the trousers (wide-leg styles in particular), 2023 is the year of the skirt, and over here at Who What Wear UK, we're calling it now. So I thought I would step outside my comfort zone for this try-on and test not just one but two different skirts. (Keep scrolling to see the other style.) And I'm glad I did.

I was really surprised at how much I loved this mini, and when I had it on, I just kept thinking what a great alternative option it was to jeans or tailored pants since it works equally well with this classic poplin shirt. My fellow petites, I'd probably size down on this one, especially if you've got a smaller waist, as I had to roll this up once for it to sit where I would like. Either that or make friends with your local tailor. Taller folks, I'm sure it will hit perfectly on the leg for you. 

5. Knitted Dress

Dress: size S

My Review: As dresses go, this one ticks a lot of boxes—polished enough to wear to the office or out for drinks with knee-high boots, comfortable enough to wear all day and totally effortless to throw on with your favourite trainers, trench and crossbody bag. The stripes make it feel very wearable (it should go with most of your existing closet), but the slightly longer length (it's somewhere between a maxi and a midi depending on your height) and bell sleeves keep it feeling modern and fresh. It's a cosy knit fabric that hugs the body while still being really flattering, and although it might be a little warm for summer days, it's perfect for wearing right now, and I'd look forward to pulling it out in autumn. 

6. Full Skirt

Skirt: size 8; Tank: size XS

My Review: I've already told you skirts aren't really my thing, but this is a different story. When I first started in fashion 10 years ago, I had a soft spot for full skirts that nipped in at the waist, and I remember they were all over the streets for fashion weeks for many seasons. All I'll say is I'm glad this trend has come full circle from what I've seen of last month's street style pictures. Flattering and fun, this is something versatile I can wear to the office with a crisp white shirt, out for date nights or drinks and even dressed up for weddings. I reckon it would look just as good with ballet flats, trainers, heels and knee-high boots, and if it wears this well with a simple tank top, I'm sold. 

7. Bouclé Jacket

Jacket: size S

My Review: Bouclé is very "in" right now—designers and high-street brands are making everything from jumpers and skirts to dresses in this textural fabric. But the  bouclé jacket has to be the most classic iteration and something that's been a mainstay in the chicest wardrobes for over 50 years . We have Coco Chanel to thank for that, but in 2023, we can get our hands on these elevated jackets on the high street too. This Arket version has the iconic short length, rounded collar and expensive-looking fabric, but I love that it feels different from the rest thanks to its chic Breton stripes. It feels very French and pairs perfectly with any kind of jeans or tailored trousers and loafers or ballet flats—which is basically my entire spring aesthetic. 

Up Next: Spring/Summer 2023 Fashion Trends: 21 Expert-Approved Looks You Need to See

Emily Dawes is the very definition of a fashion multi hyphenate. An editor, stylist and writer with over eleven years’ worth of experience in the industry, Emily is known for her impeccable taste, elegant outfit choices and being able to spot the next big thing in fashion from a mile off. Our readers loyally trust her advice and shopping suggestions; so much so she began her own column documenting the most expensive-looking pieces on the high street , which has become a top-performing piece of content for the Who What Wear brand.

Emily has worked for Who What Wear UK since 2020 in a myriad as roles, spanning from contributing editor and branded content editor. Now, she holds the position of affiliate editor and is responsible for the brand’s overall affiliate strategy, ideation and content execution. Working closely with Who What Wear UK’s affiliate manager, Emily has been instrumental in securing and nourishing brand partnerships, surpassing her goals as standard. Leading the team in tentpole shopping moments including Black Friday and Peak Trading, with Emily’s guidance and leadership, team Who What Wear is in a stronger affiliate position than ever before.

Prior to joining the Who What Wear team, Emily served as YOU Magazine’s acting fashion editor where she managed the fashion team and oversaw all fashion content output for the fast-paced weekly title. Emily is a stylist in her own right, having worked with a slew of VIP clients including writer and television personality, Elizabeth Day, as well as styling and art directing several celebrity cover shoots for glossy print publication, Grazia. Her adept fashion knowledge means brands regularly sought out to work with her as a consultant: previously she has developed marketing and content plans for brands for Cocoon and Edge of Ember. Before entering the industry, Emily obtained a Bachelor of Arts in English and American Studies with International Study from Nottingham University. Fun fact: Emily spent a year studying in America which saw her join a sorority during her time there.

When she’s not working or tracking down the chicest, new-in items to share with our audience, you’ll find Emily bestowing her East London home with her stylish flair, reading everything from the classics to cowboy romance novels and escaping to the country with husband, baby boy and dog, Roo, whenever she can.

Emily is currently on maternity leave.

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The Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

Whether weekend road-tripping or jet-setting around the world, you’re going to need a pack to toss over your shoulder. Here are the best travel backpacks for every adventure.

There are a lot of great travel backpacks out there, but not all of them are created equal. A travel pack needs to be comfortable to carry, easy to organize, and durable enough to withstand being toted from place to place.

From hitting the road for the weekend to spending months traveling abroad, we’ve put nearly 30 different travel backpacks through the wringer. We tallied our airline miles, punched our tickets, and put our tray tables in the upright and locked position for close to half a decade now, taking domestic and international flights to as far as Iceland and as close as 30-minute island hops. And while there isn’t a single pack that suits every traveler, we’ve highlighted a variety of designs and price points to help you find the perfect travel backpack.

Choosing a travel backpack can be a dizzying experience, and we’ve shaken down the best to sort through the static. Each pack has seen its time on the baggage carousel, hostel luggage cart, and we’ve even had a few go missing for the full experience. We fully pack and live out of these bags to test them, and in the end, we’re confident that the 15 packs collected here are the best travel backpacks available today. Check in and check them out.

For all your travel pack questions, consult our buyer’s guide , where we’ve laid bare all the essentials. Compare each of the packs using our handy comparison chart , and if you’ve still got questions, check out our FAQ section.

Editor’s Note: We updated our travel backpack guide on May 21, 2024, adding the JanSport Journey Pack as our new best budget travel pack, as well as the feature-rich and burly Able Carry Max Backpack .

• Best Overall Travel Backpack: Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L
• Best Budget Travel Backpack: JanSport Journey Pack
• Best Carrying Travel Backpack: Osprey Farpoint & Fairview 40 Travel Packs
• Best Organization in a Travel Backpack: Matador SEG45 Travel Pack
• Best Shoulder Bag: Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L
• Best Commuter-Style Travel Backpack: Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L
• Best Personal Item Travel Pack: TimBuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

• Capacity 45 L (collapses to 35 L)
• Weight 4 lbs., 8 oz.
• Dimensions 22" x 13" x 9.5" standard, 22" x 13" x 11" expanded
• Compartment access Back panel clamshell design with #10 zipper
• Material Weatherproof, 100% recycled 400-denier nylon canvas shell; 900-denier waterproof bottom

• Compresses down to maximum airline carry-on size, and then expands once you’ve hit your destination
• Burly construction
• No details are overlooked in the design
• Side-carry handles are offset in an awkward position

Perfect is a dirty word in product design, but we’re about stumped when it comes to drumming up a quibble about the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45 L ($300). This redeye-ready clamshell design is made to the highest of standards.

It’s made of quality materials, utilizing aluminum hardware and a burly 400-denier nylon canvas — and it easily ticks all our boxes for the best overall travel backpack. The interior of the bag is split into two compartments: a larger main area for storing the majority of your kit and a secondary sleeve at the front of the bag with five zippered pockets. The main pocket also sports a foam-padded laptop sleeve and three more pockets.

One of the more impressive aspects we discovered along the bag’s inaugural leg from Seattle to Anchorage was how easily the straps of the Travel Backpack stow away into the bag. Two foam panels on the back of the bag flip away to secure them and then close with a magnetic closure — very slick. This was our favorite strap-stowage system, with the zippered panels of the Matador GlobeRider45 coming in a close second. We find the Peak Design bag compresses smaller.

Then there are the little details. An ID-size sleeve on the back panel provides all the information should your bag get separated from you. Zipper pulls thread through one another to keep what’s yours safe. And a collapsible system adjusts the bag from a full 45 L to 35 L.

In our review, there’s little about the Peak Design pack that misses the mark. The company leans heavily toward the camera-toting travelers among us, but the 45 L Travel Backpack makes no compromises and works just as well for any user group. The high price is undeniable, but for the scope of the travel pack, it’s a buy-once-cry-once purchase we would make again.

Also available in a 30L size , the range of Travel Backpacks from Peak Design is so well-thought-out that you can practically see the cogs turning in their creators’ heads. We think they make the best travel backpacks on the market.

JanSport Journey Pack

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Osprey Farpoint & Fairview 40 Travel Packs

• Capacity 40 L
• Weight 3 lbs., 7.6 oz.
• Dimensions 22" x 14" x 9"
• Compartment access Zippered back panel clamshell design
• Material Bluesign-approved 450-denier recycled polyester

• Supreme suspension system offers the best carry of any pack we tried
• External compression straps limit the volume well
• Comfortably padded grab handles
• Not much internal organization

No stranger to producing supremely comfortable suspension systems, Osprey injected a good bit of its tech into the Farpoint and Fairview packs ($185), which both sport LightWire frames, load lifters, and breathable framesheet and suspension straps. Our Farpoint pack was easily the best load carrier of any we tested and a close contender for the best travel backpack overall.

Far beyond what any of the other travel packs offer, the pack even allows you to adjust the torso length — unheard of in the typical travel pack. Newly updated, these packs have been tweaked to ride the line between traditional backpacks and functional luggage, a claim we can substantiate.

The 40-liter capacity is just about the sweet spot for domestic carry-on luggage limits, and these packs make good use of the space. We could easily pack away a long weekend’s worth of travel essentials into the bag with a little space to spare.

Whereas many other travel packs stash straps away into the body of the pack, the Farpoint and Fairview move in the opposite direction with a deployable strap cover that neatly seals in the suspension for safekeeping when checked. This produces a clean profile that’s ready to be slung around, but it’s not quite as easy and quick as the magnetic panels of the Peak Design Travel Backpacks, as you need to unclip straps to tuck them away.

The interior of the pack is rather spartan, incorporating only one zippered pocket, a laptop sleeve, and two internal compression straps. We would have rather seen a bit more organizational features involved like those that the Matador GlobeRider and Topo Designs Global Travel bags incorporate, but for those who stuff more than pack, the Farpoint and  Fairview may very well punch the ticket.

With one foot on the platform and one on the trail, these packs from Osprey will get you where you’re going and carry a trip’s worth of kit with ease.

Matador SEG45 Travel Pack

• Capacity 45 L
• Weight 2 lbs., 8 oz.
• Dimensions 22" x 13.4" x 10.2"
• Compartment access Full clamshell interior, additional front zippered access
• Material 420-denier nylon exterior, 100-denier Robic Dynatec interior

• Excellent storage organization options
• High-quality, strong, and lightweight construction
• No frame to speak of
• Shoulder straps don’t pack away

Aiming to do more with less, the Matador SEG45 Segmented Backpack ($200) proposes a future free of packing cubes and splits up the bag for you, making the organization of your travel pack a breeze.

The full 45 liters of volume is shared among the five segments (6, 9, 15, 9, and 6 L) and trades volume between the full clamshell compartment and the segments. Each of these segments is accessible via its own water-resistant zippers and can be collapsed as your needs change.

We found organizing by clothing type made the most sense in our own packing, but you could even pack based on the day of the week or the use. The clamshell-accessed main compartment was ideal for holding larger items like spare shoes or quarantining spent outfits.

Known for its overbuilt but lightweight bags, Matador didn’t spare the SEG45, utilizing 420D UHMWPE-reinforced nylon in the pack body, as well as 100D Robic Dynatec weave on the interior. It should be noted that this travel backpack doesn’t have any kind of frame and will rely on being packed well to carry correctly. Because of this, this pack won’t carry as well as bags like the Osprey Farpoint/Fairview, so consider packing mostly clothing in the SEG45.

Our testers felt this bag excelled as a travel bag you might deploy once you’ve hit your destination, as it packs away into larger bags so well. Unfortunately, however, the shoulder straps don’t pack away into the bag itself, so you’ll have to wrangle them into place to keep things tidy.

No matter what you’re up to, everything has got a spot to live in the SEG45 . Need a bit less space? Matador offers the SEG28 ($250) for that.

Read Review: Dresser in a Backpack: Matador SEG42 Review

Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L

• Weight 3 lbs., 10.3 oz.
• Dimensions 22.8" x 8.6" x 14.5"
• Compartment access Back panel zippered clamshell design
• Material 900-denier recycled polyester ripstop with a TPU laminate

• Multiple ways to carry the pack
• Many different storage and internal organization options
• Burly external fabric
• Doesn’t carry the best as a backpack

Looking to squeeze out every last liter of allowed space? Patagonia named this pack in honor of the cause: the Patagonia Black Hole Maximum Legal Carry-On 45 L ($239). This bag can be carried in a number of different ways, but we found it shined during travel as a shoulder bag.

Borrowing fabric from Patagonia’s line of burly Black Hole Duffels , the MLC 45 is made for the long haul. The 900-denier polyester ripstop is coated in a TPU laminate and feels ready to take on the surliest baggage carrier. We certainly felt no remorse in tossing the bag around.

At 45 L, the MLC is certainly right at the cusp of the maximum allowed size, but thankfully that space is well divided up inside the pack. Inside the main clamshell-accessed compartment is a blizzard of zippers and mesh pockets and dividers. Anything we tossed inside was well-stabilized.

Because there isn’t much of a frame to speak of, the Black Hole MLC doesn’t carry the best when slung over both shoulders and can sag when not entirely full. But over a shoulder with the included shoulder strap, this pack feels great and can be easily accessed on the go. This is one of the only packs in our testing to feature a shoulder strap (the other being the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag).

On top of all this, we greatly appreciate that the Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45 L is made with 100% recycled body fabric, lining, and webbing. Perfect for grabbing and going, this pack is ready to move.

Read Review: Patagonia Black Hole MLC Bag Review: An Organized, Carry-On-Size Wonder

Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L

• Capacity 24 L
• Weight 3 lbs., 1.6 oz.
• Dimensions 18" x 7: x 11.5"
• Compartment access Zippered clamshell
• Material 840D ballistic nylon 6, 420D HT nylon

• Functions as both a laptop backpack and suitcase
• Well-structured and protected
• Full panel loading access
• Limited colorways

With an understated look that betrays the truly impressive fit and functionality inside, the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L ($279) doesn’t need to brag — it knows it’ll tote your kit through the worst of your travel or everyday commutes without missing a beat. This bag is our newly anointed best commuter-style travel backpack.

From a fabrics and materials standpoint, it’s clear that someone at Evergoods truly nerded out when they brewed up this bindle. The 840D ballistic nylon 6 that makes up the exterior of the pack is burly (errantly spilled coffee wipes right off), and complements the thick #10 zippers and spacer-mesh back panel. Even the Evergoods logo is low-key: a simple 2×2” patch on the front of the bag with a slash. That’s it — and we dig it.

Bar none, the Civic Panel Loader has the best laptop sleeve we’ve ever encountered in a backpack, and that’s saying something. The side-accessed zippered aperture can hold a 17” Macbook Pro, and nestles into a fully padded space at the rear of the pack.

This sleeve is suspended from the bottom of the bag, as we’ve seen in many forward-thinking bags, but goes a step further and protects the laptop from the side with an aluminum stay — the primary functionality of which is to support the side handle on the bag. Genius.

The high-polish finish on the CPL24 feels reminiscent of the attention to detail we loved about the Tom Bihn Synapse 25, but we ended up enjoying this pack even more for a simple reason: side carry. The broad handle on the side of the pack is reinforced by that aluminum stay, and it creates a perfectly supported carry for jostling through crowded terminals.

On the interior of the pack, two large pockets are subdivided with a few smaller sleeves and pockets, which are oriented to be accessed with the bag on its side. We carried this pack for a month straight of remote work, lugging it to coffee shops and co-working spaces, and it supplanted all other packs we’ve used previously.

“It’s hard not to love a pack that makes your life easier,” says Senior Editor Nick Belcaster. “This pack does that. Laptop, headphones, notebooks — a whole lot goes into the pack without a care.”

Up there with Nomatic, GORUCK, and Tom Bihn, Evergoods is certainly among the pack-makers that put intelligent design and smart material choice above all else. The Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L is the final word when it comes to a travel pack you can carry every day. We certainly do.

Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack

• Capacity 27.5 L
• Weight 2 lbs., 9 oz.
• Dimensions 18.9" x 11.4" x 5.9"
• Material 420x2000D Cordura nylon, 135D polyester

• Dang good looking
• High-quality trim and details, including anodized G hooks and supple webbing
• Supper cushioned back panel
• Exterior expandable water bottle pocket is a bit slim
• Pack straps don't stow away.

Pulling off a good expandable backpack can be a tough task, with fabric accordion folds often taking up valuable real estate on the interior when collapsed in lesser bags. Not so with the TimBuk2 Never Check ($209), which takes a simple backpack shape and elevates it with premium materials and design to create one of our favorite travel backpacks for tucking under an airliner seat.

Unlike a lot of the pure-function rectangular bags in our lineup, the Never Check is a real looker — easily one of the best styled in our testing so far, and we’d have no qualms about bringing it along as a business bag. Small details like rubber-covered zipper pulls, anodized G hooks, and supple webbing keep it looking sharp. The 27.5-liter size is just about dead-on for most airline ‘personal item’ size requirements, and this bag easily slides under a seat.

The main compartment is accessed through a clamshell zipper on the front of the bag, which is gusseted to hang open while you’re loading it up. During the few national and international flights our Senior Editor Nick Belcaster deployed the bag on, this was easily enough space for everything you might want during a plane ride. And for everything else, a front pocket is lined with multiple drop and zip pockets for organizing small gadgets like chargers or keys.

The back panel of the Never Check is a plush ½-inch of comfortable foam, and combined with the equally padded shoulder straps made for a very nice carrying bag. The straps unfortunately do not stow away, but on a lower volume pack such as this, it’s a much less useable feature in our opinions. 

And finally, one of our favorite features: the wide laptop sleeve. This 15” opening is generous enough to accommodate the larger laptops of today, and is suspended from the bottom of the backpack to ensure bumps don’t turn into bruises.

Just like the name suggests, the Never Check Expandable Backpack provides a svelte solution to bringing a bag with you during airline travel — or even just to the office. Its clean profile and attention to detail impressed us, and it would make an excellent work-to-weekend bag.

Able Carry Max Backpack

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Matador GlobeRider45 Travel Pack

• Dimensions 22" x 12.8" x 11"
• Material 420D UHMWPE-reinforced ripstop nylon, 100D Robic nylon mini-ripstop

• Incredible density of pockets and sleeves
• Tough UHMWPE outer fabric can be tossed around
• Shoulder straps tuck away in a novel and smart manner
• Laptop sleeve opening is a bit tight
• Price is up there

With a pocket or sleeve for pretty much everything, the new Matador GlobeRider 45 ($350) gives the Peak Design Travel Pack a run for its money when it comes to the best overall travel pack. 

Our Managing Editor raved about the GlobeRider after serious testing where she pretty much lived out of it for 3 months: “If you travel often and look for crucial components like internal and external pockets, laptop storage, and backpack and hip straps, consider the Matador GlobeRider 45. It’s a unique design in that the [pack] seems to have it all — every feature I’ve needed so far, both living out of it and in my travels — in a pretty packable size.”

What impressed us most was the way the GlobeRider was able to balance both an eye-watering amount of organization and versatility, and burly durability that ensures that this pack won’t shy away from tough travel conditions. In total (and we double-counted) there are 19 individual pockets on the pack, in all types of stretch mesh, zippered, and collapsible configurations. When good organization is key, the GlobeRider reigns. 

On the back panel of the GlobeRider, one of the more novel stowage systems we’ve seen packs away the shoulder straps and hip belt for when you want to slim down the bag. Two zippered panels — similar to the structure of the Peak Design packs, save for the closure — envelop the straps when not in use, and provide a lump-free panel for toting around. 

When it comes to downsides, the GlobeRider doesn’t miss much. The laptop sleeve aperture is a bit small at 9.5”, which in today’s age of mondo-screened computers may be limiting to some with larger devices. There also is no ability to convert the pack to a shoulder bag like the Patagonia MLC does, which can be handy when moving quickly through the airport.

Dang-near the top of the list, the Matador GlobeRider 45 would be an excellent choice for anyone who practices one-bag travel, or desires to have a place for everything in their journeys. The price does sting a bit, but based on the long-term testing we’ve completed so far, we’ve seen no indications that this pack will fade away anytime soon.

Read Review: I Lived Out of This Backpack for 3-Plus Months: Matador Globerider45 Review

Thule Aion 40L

• Weight 3 lbs., 3 oz.
• Dimensions 13" x 9.1" x 20.5"
• Material Waxed P600 polyester canvas

• Maxes out on carry-on-compliant space
• Internal roll-top TPU bag separates the clean from the to-do laundry
• Waxed canvas exterior has a classy look
• Centered side handle carries well
• Well-cushioned back panel
• No shoulder strap stowage option
• No hipbelt on a 40L is pushing it

Better known for their roof boxes and racks, it’s fair to say that Thule knows travel, and the addition of smart, organized, and comfortable travel packs like the Thule Aion 40L ($200) makes all the sense in the world to us. This pack is a finely-honed bag for international and local travel alike, and is decked out in some high-class materials.

Like the Patagonia Black Hole MLC pack, the Aion 40L aims to go for the maximum allowed capacity, and at our measurements (21.5” x 15” x 8”), the pack slides in just half an inch less than the normal 45 linear inches typically allowed. That’s efficient. The space is split up into two main compartments and a laptop sleeve, with the larger opening with a full clamshell zip.

This inner compartment hosts a few zippered pockets and internal compression straps, but the star of the show here is the integrated TPU rolltop bag. This sack can be used to cordon off your liquids (and easily presented for inspection), as well as separate your pile of ‘to-do’ laundry. This reminds us of the ActiveShield compartment in the Gregory Border Traveler pack, but we enjoy the removable aspect here even more. 

Round the back of the pack, the spacer-mesh swaddled laptop sleeve rivals the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader , and has an additional sleeve for items like tablets, notebooks, or chargers. The back panel itself is impressively cushioned (one of the more luxe in our testing) and that extends to the shoulder straps. 

Unfortunately, there’s no shoulder strap-stowage system here, so you’ll have to wrangle those yourself, and while we typically enjoy the lack of a hip belt in smaller travel packs, the absence in a 40-liter pack is a little puzzling. Fully loaded, the Aion could certainly benefit from one, and while a separate sling bag can be added to function as one, you’ll need to fork over $50 for it.

Ranking high up there with your Peak Designs and your Ospreys, the Thule Aion 40L nails the style and material departments, and with a full 40 liters of space on board, has all the room to pack for your week-long trips — no roof box required.

Osprey Archeon 30L

• Weight 3 lbs.
• Dimensions 20.5" x 13" x 11.4"
• Compartment access Zippered top-access
• Material 840D ballistic polyester with carbonate coating

• Extra-tough exterior fabric with carbonate coating
• High-polish details such as seatbelt webbing straps
• Mini-wing hipbelt tucks away easily when not needed
• Smart internal storage pockets that lay flat when not needed
• Laptop sleeve opening is a bit too snug
• Compression straps lay over the main zipper

First off, one word: Rugged. The Osprey Archeon 30L ($250) is a high-end build that spares little in the material department, and looks dang good while it’s at it. The 30-liter size makes this bag weekend travel-ready, and we greatly appreciated the fit and finish.

The overall design of the Archeon reminds us a good bit of the Peak Design Travel Bag (certainly the all-waterproof exterior zippers and curved side-entry pockets), but it’s the exterior fabric that really impressed. The 840D ballistic polyester is coated with a carbonate polyurethane coating, a bolstered recipe that increases durability by a magnitude over traditional PU coatings. In testing, we wore out before putting a dent in it.

The pack itself breaks down into two main compartments, with the main pocket opening behind a curved clamshell zip (we did have a little trouble with the zipper passing behind the exterior straps. Removing them fixed that). Inside, three expandable tech pockets tuck away all of your small kit, and do a good job of keeping things tidy on the interior.

On the exterior, Osprey doesn’t disappoint when it comes to suspension straps, which are comfortable, adjustable, and stashable. The mini wing-style hip belt earns special praise on packed flights, where we find traditional hip belts to be a hassle to store, and combined with the slick shoulder-strap stash pocket, the Archeon converts to minimal mode in under a minute.

Something the Archeon certainly could use, however, is a slightly larger aperture into the laptop/tech compartment. As-is, the zipper doesn’t quite extend down far enough to truly open up the pocket, and as such it can feel a bit like rummaging around in the dark looking for cords and chargers in the bottom of the pack. Extending these zippers down to the middle of the pack would seem to fix the issue, and we hope a later iteration might address this.

Nonetheless, we were still impressed by the Osprey Archeon 30L . There’s also a 40-liter version if you’re looking for a max-capacity carry-on, and even a smaller 24-liter for kicking around coffee shops day-to-day.

Read Review: Hack Carry-On Rules: Osprey Archeon Kit Gives Power Back to Passengers

Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 40L

• Weight 3 lbs., 10.4 oz.
• Dimensions 22.5" x 14" x 7.5"
• Material 1000D recycled nylon, 400D recycled nylon, 210D recycled nylon, 1680D recycled ballistic nylon

• Overbuilt design with tough materials and chunky zippers
• Plenty of organizational pockets
• Bright interior
• Not the cleanest strap stowage

Chunky zippers, an overhead-savvy profile, and multiple ways to sling it over your shoulder: The Topo Designs Global Travel Pack ($229) has honed in on much of what we love in a travel backpack.

During a recent trip from Seattle to Southern California, we were heavily saddled with the maximum the airline would allow. But this pack made use of every inch of space and reached the allowance of what we could check as our carry-on. The 40 liters of internal capacity is broken down into a series of dividers and pockets, which made condoning off things like electronics from the rest of our kit easy. And the interior of this pack is a cheery canary yellow, which helps with ease and visibility.

On the exterior of this pack, three separate carry styles are available to get you through the concourse in whatever way you choose. We found the full-featured backpack straps to be our go-to, which even sport load-lifters for a comfy carry. This suspension system does tuck away for when you might want to check the bag, though we found the hipbelt to be a bit tricky to fully retract.

Rounding out this travel-ready backpack is a tough build that makes use of 1000D recycled nylon and heavy-duty zippers, and we had no qualms with tossing this bag around during our trip. Perfect for anyone who subscribes to the one-bag travel ethos, the Global Travel Pack from Topo Designs makes the grade for those who want the most out of their carry-on.

And if you’re only going to be away for a short trip, the Global Travel pack is also available in a 30L capacity .

Cotopaxi Allpa 28L Travel Pack

• Capacity 28 L
• Weight 3 lbs., 4 oz.
• Dimensions 19" x 12" x 9"
• Material TPU-coated 1,000-denier polyester, 840-denier nylon paneling

• Burly exterior material holds up for the long run
• Plenty of zippered mesh storage pockets
• On the heavier side
• TPU-coated nylon can feel grabby

The Allpa 28L Travel Pack ($170) will change the way you travel. It’s sleek, durable, and able to fit an incredible amount of stuff in a small space. The zippered mesh pockets keep clothes organized. And the compression straps maximize what you can pack.

The tough polyester and nylon construction can take a beating without any signs of wear. And we appreciate that the externally accessed, padded laptop sleeve makes pulling out your electronics at security checkpoints a breeze. There’s also a small outer compartment to keep essentials at hand.

You can completely tuck away the backpack straps and carry the pack like a briefcase, or wear it comfortably as a backpack. We’ve stuffed this pack to the gills countless times and have never had a problem with the zippers. Light rain showers or spills roll right off the TPU-coated exterior, but for legit rainstorms, just pull out the included rain cover.

The Allpa also comes in 35L, 42L, 50L, and 70L capacities. As our editor noted in the 42L review , “Building on its fun and functional ethos, Cotopaxi beefs up its bestselling product. The Allpa Travel Pack earns big points for clever design, clean aesthetic, and a surprising number of handy — and hidden — features.”

Yes, the Cotopaxi Allpa packs are an investment, but anyone who travels regularly will find it a worthy one. These powerhouse travel backpacks are sturdy, versatile, and built to last.

Tom Bihn Synapse 25

• Capacity 25 L
• Weight 1 lb., 13 oz.
• Dimensions 13.4" x 20" x 9.1"
• Material 400-denier Halcyon, 420-denier nylon ripstop

• Many different fabrics and color schemes are available
• Built to last design and materials
• Removable webbing hip belt
• Suspension doesn’t pack away
• Side wing pockets are a little awkward to access

Refined and clean-looking, the Tom Bihn Synapse 25 ($250) is a high-end travel backpack we just can’t stop staring at. It just looks that good. Made of burly textiles and zippers, this pack was built to stand the test of tough travel and come out shining on the other side.

The Synapse 25 is the larger version of Tom Bihn’s Synapse 19 , a popular backpack made for daily carry. The bump in volume is appreciated in this travel-oriented version and is doled out in one large compartment as well as a set of pockets on the front of the pack.

We found all the pockets easily accessible, save for the side wing pockets. While these were excellent for the organization of smaller bits and bobs, the openings were a bit awkward to jump into.

Topped off by a cushioned suspension (the foam is a half-inch of supple EV50), this travel backpack didn’t weigh us down on long days of travel when fully packed. And when we wanted to go light, even the webbing hip belt was removable. In terms of the ability to bop around town as a daily driver, this pack is up there with the TimBuk2 Never Check (we liked the back panel on this pack the most).

Along with being carry-on compliant, the Synapse is also one of the few bags on our list that are compact enough to fit under most airline seats without hogging too much precious legroom.

Osprey Nebula 32 Daypack

• Capacity 32 L
• Weight 2 lbs., 1.7 oz.
• Dimensions 19.2" x 12.2" x 11.4"
• Material 420-denier recycled nylon

• TSA-compliant laptop sleeve
• Many options for organization
• Water bottle pockets fit 32 oz. bottles
• Need to release two buckles in order to unzip the main pocket all the way

When it comes to backpacks, Osprey has put in the time — and it shows. The Nebula 32 ($140) feels like all the brand’s most popular packs morphed into one. Most of all, we love how it seamlessly goes from city streets to trails.

This backpack can do it all, whether you’re hauling your laptop and books around town; water, food, and layers on an easy hike; or all of the above and then some for a weekend away.

The internal storage pockets are great for organizing all of your things for easy access. And while the Nebula 32 is top-loading, the main pocket opens up wide enough so you won’t have to unload everything to get to the one thing you want at the bottom. The sternum strap and hip belt are comfortable as well, especially when carrying a heavy load.

On smaller volume packs like this, sometimes design concessions need to be made to accommodate all the functionality, and on the Nebula, it’s in the side compression straps. Like on the Osprey Farpoint/Fairview, the compression system of the pack overlays across the main compartment zipper, meaning you’ll need to undo some straps before rifling around in the storage area. Not a deal breaker, but a little annoying when the TSA line starts to back up behind you.

Overall, the Nebula 32 won’t disappoint if you make it your go-to smaller-volume travel backpack.

Travel Backpack Comparison Chart

How We Tested Travel Backpacks

The staff of GearJunkie is a hot-footed bunch, restlessly plodding across the country or around the globe in search of adventure and whatever else comes our way. And we have a lot of stuff, which necessitates having a travel bag or four in the stable.

Surely any old bindle will do in carrying your kit around, but having a travel backpack that is dialed into the needs of travel can turn a stressful situation into a manageable one. We’ve been testing travel backpacks since 2019 and have put the market slice through the wringer on thousands of miles of travel to weed out the best of the best.

Senior Editor Nick Belcaster has a zeal for international travel, and he leads up our current travel pack testing, logging almost 10,000 flying miles in the last year alone. From Iceland to Utah, Belcaster has carried these packs and lived out of them for weeks, relying on them to support back-to-back travel excursions.

In testing, we looked for a number of features in our travel backpacks, including overall capacity, carry style, durability, and aesthetics. It’s important to think about how you’ll use your travel pack, and as such, every pack on our list is carry-on compliant for the worst-case scenario.

We know no trip will be like the next, so we took a broad swath of the travel backpacks on the market in order to create a list that will suit many different travelers. Packs in hand, over our shoulders, or on our backs, we hit the four corners and tested the best travel backpacks of 2024.

Curious about what we pack in our travel backpacks? We’ve penned up a list for both domestic and international trips .

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose a Travel Backpack

Travel backpack user profiles.

The International Jet-Setter: The term ‘One Bag Travel’ is no stranger to you, and you’ve just about got your life distilled down into 45 liters of space. If international travel is your bag, then a backpack that’s up to the task will be essential to see you through to further time zones.

Efficiency will be the name of the game here, and going with a pack that is dang-near the carry-on maximums for international flights will mean you can make it through without checking a bag. Look for near to 45-liter packs with plenty of organization baked in, as well as a comfortable (and stashable) carry system.

For international travel, the bag we reach for most often had to be the Peak Design Travel Backpack , with a razor-thin second place going to the Matador GlobeRider45 Travel Pack . For an emphasis on organization, the Matador SEG45 splits up the volume well, and if you’ll be schlepping bags around a long way, the Osprey Farpoint & Fairview Packs have all the Osprey suspension we love.

The Weekend Warrior: Maybe it’s a work trip, and maybe it’s just for fun, but it’s only going to take 2-3 days total, and you’ll need a bag that can pack it in. For weekend excursions, we find packs in the 25-35 liter range work well for the minimalists among us, and the 30-40 liter range for those who like a bit more options.

The Tom Bihn Synapse 25 is easily one of the most stylish packs in our review, only slightly edged out by the Timbuk2 Never Check , and both make the grade for a single overnighter in a foreign locale. For a bit more space, you can’t go wrong with the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 40L , a fun pack that is a lot tougher than the multi-colored exterior would let on.

The Commuter: No flight involved! Duty calls, and sometimes you’ll need to lug around a bit more kit than the old briefcase can allow for. Commuting with a travel backpack is a great way to stay comfortable on longer rides, as shoulder and handbags are cumbersome over the long run. Focus on a bag with a more traditional backpack shape that puts an emphasis on ease-of-access, and is in the 20-30L range.

For bumping around town, we’ve come to love the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24 , which not only lugs our remote office around with ease, but also looks pretty slick doing it. The drawstring opening here is a huge boon for quickly stashing a jacket, and the tough exterior fears no weather forecast. For a budget just-get-it-done choice, the JanSport Journey Pack will make it happen for less.

The right size pack for you depends on a few things. First, where are you going? And, how long do you plan to stay? Winter travel often comes with more gear, so you’ll need to pack extra layers. Longer trips often require larger bags.

That said, your personal packing style will be the most important factor. We know minimalists who happily travel for months with only a single backpack in tow and others who want the largest travel backpack possible in addition to a totally stuffed duffel bag . One method isn’t better than the other, but knowing your style is helpful when choosing a bag.

In general, we’ve found that something in the 28-45 liter range is ideal for comfort and packability. Many packs will also offer a compression system to allow you to limit the overall volume of the backpack. We’ve seen many different ways to accomplish this, but the most effective by far were the button snaps and expanding zipper of the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L . Packs toward the 40-45 liter range will be your carry-on bags of choice, and the 45-liter Peak Design, Patagonia MLC , and Matador GlobeRider are perfect for maxing out your allowed space. The 40-liter Osprey Farpoint/Fairview packs give up a little internal room for the luxe suspension system they’re carried with.

Packs in the smaller end of the range, from around 25-30 L, make better personal items, and the TimBuk2 Never Check , Tom Bihn Synapse , and Patagonia Black Hole backpacks all fit snugly underneath an airliner seat. These small bags move through a city gracefully and look more like everyday carry backpacks than traditional luggage.

What good would a bag be if you couldn’t get into it? From a simple drawstring to a thicket of Velcro and zippers, there are plenty of ways to keep your bag closed while you’re on the go, but not every one will be amenable to travel.

Zippered Clamshells: Most travel backpacks will use a clamshell-style design that opens up the backpack like a suitcase, allowing you to pack intentionally as opposed to stuffing things in. Oftentimes, an internal strap system will help keep your items contained while you’re on the move.

Packs with this clamshell design may also opt to add internal dividers to the main storage area, and make these dividers removable — should you need the entire storage area uninhibited. For packs without internal dividers or straps, consider adding a few packing cubes to keep your items organized.

In addition to the rear entry, some backpacks will offer additional entry points through the top or front of the pack. This can be helpful when you need to quickly retrieve something like a passport from your bag, without the need to totally spill the contents. The majority of packs in our review close in this clamshell manner, and a few of our favorites are the Peak Design Travel Backpack , Osprey Farpoint & Fairview 40 Travel Packs , and Matador GlobeRider45 Travel Pack .

Zippered Top-Access: Much like many traditional backpacks, zippered top-access packs load and unload from the topside, and generally only offer one point of entry/egress into the pack. For this reason, packs of this flavor are generally left packed during travel, as digging around for something at the bottom can be a hassle.

Bags of this stripe, including the uber-nice Tom Bihn Synapse 25 and expandable Timbuk2 Never Check , most often make better personal items over carry-ons, as their smaller volumes make for easier searching within.

Drawstring Top-Entry: While not quite as common as a zippered clamshell or top-access pack, drawstring top-entry packs can make for very quick and easy access to your kit if you’re on the move. These packs will integrate an extended fabric collar to the top of the storage area, which can be compressed when needed, or overstuffed with bulky items like jackets.

Carrying Options

There are plenty of ways to lug your kit to your boarding gate, but not all of them will be comfortable for everything. Over-shoulder backpack straps can support a good bit of weight but typically will need some type of frame to truly be supportive. The Osprey Farpoint/Fairview packs were the best-carrying packs in our testing, owed largely to the wire frame and Airscape mesh back panels, but we also enjoyed the carry of the aluminum frame stays on the Matador GlobeRider.

A shoulder strap travel backpack, like the Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L , can be slung across your body and provide a great amount of accessibility on the go. Don’t expect to carry too much weight this way, however.

And then there’s the classic suitcase style, easily towed anywhere. It’s good to note many travel backpacks will have stowable straps to better streamline the pack for a trip through an X-ray machine or stowed under a seat. The strap storage design of the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L impressed us most of all, utilizing magnetic closure flaps to pack away the shoulder and hip straps neatly.

Pockets & Organization

There’s an organizational saying: “A place for everything and everything in its place.” And we couldn’t agree more. Keeping track of everything while you travel is key for organization. And while more pockets always seem better, there is a threshold where having too many simply becomes more places to misplace things. Instead, we recommend packs with three to six pockets.

The Cotopaxi Allpa and Topo Designs Global Travel Bags both have ingenious inner organization systems complete with large zipping “pockets.” It has just enough space to find room for everything but not so many compartments that you’ll be hunting all day for your misplaced passport. For even more organization, the Matador SEG45 splits into five different segments that are accessible from the exterior of the pack.

Bringing along a laptop is a necessary evil for some travelers, and having an incorporated laptop sleeve in your travel backpack can keep it safe during travel. Most laptop sleeves will be padded with some type of foam and nestle in close to the back for maximum protection. In order to be TSA-compliant, a laptop sleeve will need to fold entirely flat away from the pack to be scanned.

Because flying with liquids over 3.4 ounces is prohibited in the U.S., carrying all of these items in a separate toiletry bag can make your foray into the screening line a breeze. Many of the packs on our list incorporate many external pockets where such a bag could be stashed and produced when needed.

Travel luggage takes a beating, so durability is a top concern. Luckily, gear manufacturers realize this and are making increasingly burly yet portable packs. The fan-favorite Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L pack is made with a 900-denier ripstop nylon outer with a TPU laminate for extra durability. It’s nearly indestructible, water-resistant, and versatile.

If you’re traveling somewhere with inclement weather or if your pack needs to double as a climbing bag or hiking pack, durability is extra important. And it’s worth paying more for a backpack that is water-resistant.

Space Efficiency & Carry-On Compliance

Astute observers will note many of the packs in our review sport a rectangular shape, which is certainly due to designers aspiring to create a more space-efficient pack. This isn’t to say that more shapely packs won’t make it happen, but when you’re struggling to make every liter of space count, maximizing dimensions matters.

Carry-on luggage is any bag that you plan on bringing into an airplane and storing in the overhead bins. Because space is limited, airlines dictate the maximum size that any carry-on can be. In the U.S., the most common size is 22 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches, or 45 linear inches (length + width + height). However, this is just a rough guideline; some airlines differ from these dimensions, and you should refer to their information directly.

In general, these dimensions provide a travel backpack with around 40-45 liters of internal volume, so buying a pack that’s as close to that as possible will provide the most space allowed. Many of the packs on our list have the ability to compress to a smaller size, such as the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L .

Be mindful as well, that any protrusions from your travel pack such as shoulder straps or handles will also need to fall within the maximum allowed size. Many travel backpacks today incorporate some type of strap-stowing ability, such as the magnetic panels of the Peak Design packs, the zippered cover of the Osprey Farpoint/Fairview, and the hybrid zipper/panel of the Matador GlobeRider 45. All of these provide a more streamlined profile that should both hit the mark, and fit better into overhead bins.

Travel backpacks run the gamut of prices — from affordable to downright pricey. There are a number of factors that play into what you get for the money.

Budget-Minded Travel Packs

Travel backpacks, as a category, are generally a bit pricer than your average luggage, as they incorporate tough materials that can put up with extensive wear over the lifespan. Travel is tough on bags, so it’s unsurprising that even budget travel backpacks will cost you around $100-150.

These packs often will incorporate more traditional architectures such as a zippered top access, as opposed to the more complicated (and spendy) full-zip clamshell designs. For example, the JanSport Journey Pack ($95) is pretty much your average school bag.

Volumes, too, will be a bit limited in this price range — added material adds cost. The 32-liter Osprey Nebula ($140) is about the best price-to-volume ratio you can get.

Mid-Range Travel Packs

Mid-range packs make up the bread and butter of travel packs, and can be had for around $150 to $200. These designs are often more of the full carry-on variety, and aim to capitalize on permitted volume as much as possible. The 45-liter Matador SEG45 ($200), Patagonia Black Hole MLC ($239), 40-liter Osprey Farpoint/Fairview ($185), and Topo Designs Global Travel Bag ($229) all shoehorn in just about as much space as a friendly gate agent will let you get away with.

For the price, you also get a good variety of functionality that makes travel easier, such as stowable pack straps, interior segmented pockets and sleeves (done excellently on the $170 Cotopaxi Allpa ), and an external compression system that limits the space your bag takes up. Some packs, like the TimBuk2 Never Check ($209), don’t exactly hit these parameters, but instead make up for it in high-quality design and materials.

Premium Travel Packs

Above $250, you’re likely paying for premium materials or a to-the-hilt design that leaves absolutely nothing on the cutting room floor. The Peak Design Travel Backpack ($300) is a great example, and utilizes super high-quality nylon canvas, custom aluminum hardware, and supple seatbelt material webbing in its build, as well as fitting in just about every conceivable feature you could want in a travel pack. The same can be said of the Matador GlobeRider 45 ($350), which uses high-tech UHMPWE-reinforced materials and sports a total of 19 pockets.

The Tom Bihn Synapse 25 ($250) is a bit of an outlier, as it commands a high dollar amount not for the extreme amount of space it offers or amount of features, but for being a hyper-customizable, hand-made bag that uses the nicest textiles available, as well as the best zippers, webbing, and foam in its design. If you’re a fan of the finest materials, this is your daily driver pack.

What Is One Bag Travel?

The ‘One Bag Travel’ ethos and travel backpacks go hand-in-hand. Simply put, to travel in one-bag style is to be minimalist in your luggage choices, and only take what you can carry onto the plane/train/pack animal. Not only does this do away with the fuss of deciding what exactly to bring along with you, but it also allows for breezing through airports — skipping the need to check baggage, wait at baggage claim, or fear for lost luggage.

In order to most effectively travel with one bag, be sure to read up on exactly the baggage size allowances provided by your transportation. This can affect both overall size and weight, and having an expandable pack is a large benefit here. In this way, you can carry just enough to skirt through under the limit, and then expand the bag when you’ve hit your destination for more breathing room. If you aim for a 35-40 liter backpack, you’ll be right on the money for one-bag travel.

Finally, remember that this bag is going to be the only item of luggage you’ve got, so ensure it’ll be comfortable enough for the long haul. Look for padded back panels and hip belts that’ll transfer the load correctly, and if they stash away — all the better.

Our team unanimously agrees that the best travel backpack is the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L . It’s extremely durable, and it offers plenty of organizational pockets to stash your kit away in. The clamshell opening makes packing a breeze, and we really appreciated the unique shoulder strap storage options available to turn the pack into a stripped-down bag that would slide into any overhead compartment.

The best size bag for traveling depends largely on your travel itinerary and mode of transport. The Cotopaxi Allpa packs range from 28 to 42 liters.

The 28-liter option makes for a compact and comfortable backpack that easily fits in overhead airplane compartments. The 42-liter option is a bit more like carrying a duffel bag on your back, but it still manages to fit in overhead compartments. It’s a great option for maximizing carry-on capacity in backpack form.

While both have their place in travel, a backpack can offer some advantages over a suitcase. Since they’re much more portable, backpacks can be brought to many more places where a suitcase won’t work. Suitcases can be your large load carriers, but a good travel backpack gives you the freedom to strike out on daily adventures.

Travel backpacks absolutely can be carry-on luggage, given they meet the size requirements. In the U.S., the most common maximum size is 22 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches, or 45 linear inches (length + width + height). But this is only a common size, and different airlines will have different specifics. Consult with your airline specifically to determine what they allow.

While different body types will find different travel packs comfortable, we can all agree that a good support system and ample foam make for a comfortable carry. In our own testing, we found the Osprey Farpoint 40 and Fairview 40 Travel Packs were by far the most comfortable due to their plush suspension systems.

Because many different airlines operate a slate of different planes, there isn’t a standard under-seat luggage size, although there is an average: 16 inches x 12 inches x 6 inches. Some airlines allow personal items larger than this, but you should consult with their customer service for specifics. Our favorite personal item-sized travel pack was the Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack , which, at 24 liters compressed, easily slides under a seat.

The Best Laptop Backpacks of 2024

Whether you’re headed to the office, class, or even the trailhead, here’s our top picks for the best laptop backpacks of 2024.

The Best Daypacks of 2024

We tested the best daypacks of 2024 with options for every budget. Top picks include Osprey, Cotopaxi, and more.

Hailing from the hemlocks and hanging mosses of Washington State, Senior Editor Nick Belcaster is an adventure journalist following threads of stories across the West. Cruelly stolen from the alpine swales of rural Wisconsin at a young age, Nick made do ascending the snows and granite of the North Cascades while completing a journalism degree. A long stint on the Pacific Crest Trail in 2018 codified a life bent on sleeping on minor slopes and picking devil’s club out of his shoes.

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The 10 Best Travel Golf Bags of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Make sure your clubs arrive safely with these durable and portable travel golf bags.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks

Our Testing Process

• Others We Liked
• Other Gear You May Need
• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

A durable golf travel bag is essential for protecting your clubs and giving you peace of mind whether you’re traveling by car or airplane to one of the world’s best courses. While there are plenty of storage options for safely traveling with your clubs, we tested the best golf travel bags based on qualities like durability, portability, and capacity. 

We love a gold bag that is made with durable materials with plenty of padding to ensure that your clubs make it to your destination safely. We were able to fit clubs, clothes, golf balls, and other accessories into our bags without any issues. Whether you’re looking for a hardside case or a budget-friendly bag, we found options for a variety of categories to fit the needs of all golfers. 

Best Overall

Club glove last bag large pro.

It’s built to last with single webbing reinforcement and burst-proof construction. 

The bag weighs more than 10 pounds.

The Club Glove Last Bag Large Pro golf travel bag is one of the best-made travel bags we've seen. Fit for a weekend golf getaway , the bag can comfortably fit a set of clubs in a standard-size carrier, golf balls, shirts, shorts, towels, and two pairs of golf shoes between the main compartment and two exterior pockets. Despite the 45-pound weight after packing, we thought the balance was evenly distributed throughout the bag and the inline skate wheels rolled smoothly and felt sturdy due to the plastic wheelbase that is designed for high-impact travel. We noted the high-quality feel of the water-resistant nylon material that adds durability to the bag, which truly feels like it will last a lifetime.

The bag is outfitted with self-lubricating YKK zippers and ITW Nexus buckles that come from a manufacturer that makes military-grade hoops, locks, and buckles. An aluminum stiff arm to reinforce the padded protection for impact during traveling is included. We flew with this bag twice in one month of testing, and it still looks like it just came out of the box. The durability, functionality, and sleek design of the Club Glove Last Bag Large Pro Golf Travel Bag make it well worth the price for golfers that are planning to travel with their clubs. 

The Details: 86 x 19 x 51 inches | 10.6 pounds | Wheeled | Nylon

Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

Travel + Leisure / Kyle Tyll

Best Budget

Caddydaddy constrictor 2 travel cover.

This affordable bag has large pockets that can store all of your extra gear.

The sides aren't padded, so you may want to add cushioning to protect your clubs.

For frequent travelers or golfers who want an affordable bag that can store even their bulkiest gear, this CaddyDaddy bag is the perfect option. Not only is the bag itself large enough to store all of your clubs, but we love that it also features side pockets big enough to pack your shoes and even extra clothing. Even with all of this space, the bag still doesn't feel bulky.

The fabric is thick and well-stitched. Made of thick rubber and nylon, we feel confident this bag won't break, tear, or otherwise fall apart, making it a great value — and it's the lowest priced option on this list. To give you added peace of mind, it comes with a one-year full replacement warranty so you can test it for yourself.

The Details: 27.5 x 18.9 x 14.5 inches | 9 pounds | Wheeled | Nylon and rubber

Most Spacious

Caddydaddy golf club travel cover with wheels.

The interior has tons of room for clothing or shoes in addition to golf clubs. 

It has straps that are slightly uncomfortable.

The CaddyDaddy First Class Premium Padded Golf Club Travel Cover has tons of space for not only clubs, but also golf shoes, clothing, and anything else you would ever need on a golf trip. Since the golf travel bag weighs 10 pounds, golfers can pack up to 40 pounds of clubs, clothes, and other accessories before reaching the general 50-pound checked bag limit for most airlines. We loved the spacious side pockets for toiletries and golf shoes, as well as the well-placed straps that can be tucked in during traveling to prevent damage.

The weight of the golf bag is mostly evenly balanced, and the wheels and handles make it easy to carry and maneuver; however, the top handle could have been a little more comfortable. The materials and the zippers of the bag feel durable and well-made. We're confident that this bag would last a very long time and would not be something you'd have to worry about replacing anytime soon.

The Details: 51 x 13 x 15 inches | 10 pounds | Wheeled | Nylon

Best Softside

Sun mountain clubglider meridian travel cover.

There are fold-out legs in the center with wheels that make rolling this softside bag even easier.

Travelers might want to consider a stiff arm for added protection.

For golfers looking for a simple yet functional golf travel bag, the Sun Mountain ClubGlider Meridian Travel Cover is a solid softside option. The design of the bag includes everything you need for a hassle-free packing and travel experience, including a spacious interior for a cart or stand bag, two exterior pockets, and a pull-out leg mechanism with an additional pair of wheels besides the ones at the bottom of the bag. We found it very easy to collapse the legs in and out, and the bag rolled a lot more smoothly than expected.

The high-quality, durable feel of the handles on the front, bottom, and middle of the bag equally impressed us by making it a breeze to lift and maneuver comfortably. While the nylon exterior material and padding feel sturdy and durable, the bag would likely only protect golf clubs against low-impact hits.

The Details: 51 x 15 x 14 inches | 8 pounds | Wheeled | Nylon

Travel + Leisure / David Engler

Most Durable

Club glove collegiate travel cover with stiff arm.

PGA Tour Superstore

It comes with a stiff arm to protect the heads of the clubs.

Packing the clubs was a tight fit with the length.

Traveling by air with golf clubs can be risky considering the potential for rough handling that comes with checking in luggage , but the Club Glove Last Bag Collegiate Travel Cover with Stiff Arm is made of high-quality materials and includes a stiff arm that is designed to protect gear from hard impact. The adjustable stiff arm is made of nylon plastic and lightweight aluminum, and although it doesn’t take up much room, we had to jostle the bag to get the stiff arm in with the golf clubs. With the smaller interior, we appreciated the two large exterior pockets that can fit some additional items like shoes, clothing, or sunscreen . The fully packed bag is comfortable to carry with top, bottom, and middle straps that evenly distribute the weight of the lengthy bag, and we liked how it can stand up on its own.

After flying with this Club Glove design, there weren’t any scuffs or damage to the bag. The exterior of the bag is made of water-resistant ballistic nylon fabric, and the backing has single webbing reinforcement — a common fabric used for climbing, military gear, and parachutes. 

The Details: 52 x 14 x 14 inches | 11.3 pounds | Wheeled | Nylon

Travel + Leisure / Karen Chen

Best Portability

Izzo golf high roller.

There are six wheels on the bottom of the bag so you can roll it upright. 

It feels slightly top-heavy.

The Izzo High Roller golf bag impressed us with how easy it was to transport by wheeling or carrying it. The six wheels on the bottom of the bag make it possible to push or pull it while it's standing upright. In addition, the bag can collapse down to just 12 inches for easy storage while traveling or at home.

While the bag felt a little top-heavy while we wheeled through an airport, the handles made it easy to lift and hold onto while rolling the bag. Even if the bag were to fall over, it has a solid amount of protective padding on the inside and outside, and it’s made with tear-resistant nylon that feels sturdy and durable. The interior of the bag is large enough for golf clubs and extra shirts, and the exterior pocket is big enough for a pair of golf shoes, but it was a tighter fit than we would’ve preferred. We think the Izzo High Roller bag is perfect for golfers who could benefit from having exceptional portability and durability while traveling through airports.

Dimensions: 53 x 16 x 12 inches | 8 pounds | Nylon

Travel + Leisure / Martin Schnurr

Best Hybrid

Caddydaddy golf travel bag cover with hard case top.

Only the top half is made with a hardside material, which makes storing the bag much easier.

It feels top-heavy when you're carrying it.

The CaddyDaddy Enforcer Golf Travel Bag Cover With Hard Case Top is designed with traveling golfers in mind, especially those who live in big cities with limited storage space. This golf bag has a unique design in which the top half is a hardside case and the bottom half is softside. The partial hardside design gives you the protection you want for your clubs, and we love how the bag can compress into itself, making it more space efficient for storing when not in use.

The exterior of the bag has two pockets for storing balls or shoes, and although there aren’t any pockets on the inside, there was a good amount of room left over for clothes. Though the hardside top makes it slightly top heavy, the bag maneuvers well on the inline skate wheels at the bottom, while the top, bottom, and center handle make it easy to lift the bag into a car or onto a weight scale at the airport. 

The Details: 51 x 13 x 13 inches | 9 pounds | Wheeled | Nylon

Travel + Leisure / Allison Widmer

Best Lightweight

Tourtrek tc pro travel cover.

Dick's Sporting Goods

This bag feels lightweight whether you're pushing it or pulling it over a variety of surfaces.

The interior of the bag could be bigger.

The TourTrek TC Pro Travel Cover offers an abundance of protective padding and excellent portability. We think this bag is a fantastic value thanks to durable design and interior space that’s roomy enough for a set of golf clubs and two mesh pockets for accessories, as well as an exterior pocket for a pair of shoes. The cushioning is very generous, and the bag feels protective and sturdy with 360-degree padding to keep your golf clubs safe whether you’re traveling by air or car. The handles are padded as well, making them comfortable to hold onto while lifting or rolling the bag. And it includes a lock and key set for an additional layer of security and peace of mind.

Weighing just 6.6 pounds, this golf travel bag is lightweight and takes up less of the allotted 50-pound weight maximum that most airlines limit checked bags to. While we think the interior could be a little bit bigger, this golf travel bag has high-quality features that lead us to believe it will protect golf clubs through rough travels and last a long time with prolonged use, too. 

The Details: 52 x 14 x 14 inches | 6.6 pounds | Wheeled | Nylon

Travel & Leisure / Chris Abell

Best Design

Stitch multi use traveler.

It's incredibly portable and easy to maneuver.

The bag is not very padded.

The Stitch Multi Use Traveler (or MUT) is really unique for a travel golf bag. It fits a ton of gear including shoes, outerwear, and accessories. When we checked this bag to bring it on a trip to Florida, it held six pairs of shoes, two rain jackets , a dopp kit, and plenty of golf balls and towels, in addition to the golf clubs. The design is where this bag shines — its nylon exterior is durable but has a premium look; the orange zippers pop and make it easy to spot on an oversize luggage pile; and the handles are in convenient, cohesive places.

The wheels are great, and while it occasionally felt imbalanced, we think that was due to overpacking as we found it much easier to maneuver the bag when packed with clubs alone. While the bag is not padded, it is made of durable, sturdy nylon that doesn't show scuffs or minor tears.

The Details: 22.8 x 12 x 12 inches | Wheeled | Nylon

Travel + Leisure / Red Fabbri

Best Splurge

Tumi sport golf travel case.

This Tumi bag is spacious and rolls easily.

We wish it had more internal pockets to help with organization.

We flew with this bag carrying clubs in a standard golf cart bag, shoes, hats, a speaker , and a few other accessories. The case was easy to drag through the parking lot, into the airport tram, and up and down escalators. The wheels were slick and easily turned around reasonably tight corners and around slow airport travelers. Additionally, the side handles are convenient for lifting the case up horizontally to put it in and out of vehicles. It was also easy to pull on and off of the baggage claim belt as a result of the handles and big wheels at the bottom of the case.

The external zippers have very long pulls that were easy to maneuver and slide around the case. The clubs themselves are secured by two straps with a standard quick release buckle on a one-inch nylon strap. The main compartment is padded all around and has as special layer of padding for the club heads. Padding around the club heads is important because in transit they can typically bang together/bang into other external objects and become damaged. This is not something we worried about at all using this case. The exterior of the case did have some scruffs and scrapes after landing, but the fact that all internal items were well-protected makes this a high-quality choice.

The Details: 54.4 x 17.1 x 13.5 inches | 17.4 pounds | Wheeled | Polycarbonate

Travel + Leisure / Michael Weisbaum

We had our expert Travel + Leisure golfers take 21 golf travel bags on the road to find out which ones will keep your clubs safe whether you’re flying or driving. We evaluated the bags by flying, driving, walking around, and carrying the bags, taking detailed notes on the capacity, design, durability, and portability. 

Our team members packed their golf clubs into the travel bags and noted how easy it was to place the clubs into them and if there was room leftover for clothes, shoes, golf balls, or other accessories between the main compartment and any pockets. While packing the bags, we checked the quality of the zippers and buckles, as well as how much padding there was and if it felt sufficient for protecting the clubs. We looked for spacious bags that had extra room leftover after packing our golf clubs. We also loved the bags that had thoughtful and intuitive features that had golfers in mind because they made packing easier.

After packing up the travel bags, our traveling golfers tested portability by carrying and wheeling the bags to get a feel for how they maneuvered. The top performing bags for portability were exceptionally easy to lift and wheel with comfortable, padded straps and handles. The most durable bags stood up well to car and plane travel, with no damage to the exterior or items on the interior. We determined that the bags with the best value performed as or better than expected given the price, especially pricier bags that needed robust justification for the cost.

Other Golf Travel Bags We Liked

While we found plenty of well-performing golf travel bags, there were a few that almost made our list of best golf travel bags but fell short during testing. 

Samsonite Golf Deluxe 3-piece Travel Set : The bag is functional and has a sleek design, but there isn’t much padding, and the zippers are plastic, which made us question the durability of the bag while flying. 

Samsonite Hard Side Golf Case : This hardside case feels durable, but it doesn't have much give, so it was a tight fit to get the golf clubs in, and the case is difficult to store since it can’t break down.

Amazon Basics Soft-sided Golf Travel Bag : This bag is very affordable but has an unstructured bottom, so it can't stand up on its own.

SKB Cases ATA Deluxe Standard Hard Travel Golf Case : This case was built to withstand a lot of rough handling and has TSA-approved locks, but can become heavy due to its thick plastic.

Bag Boy Golf T10 Hard Top Cover : For minimalist golfers, this simple bag fits just what you need, but won't give you room for extra equipment or gear.

Other Golf Gear You May Need

When you're heading out for a long day on the course, be sure you're prepared with everything you need, from sunscreen to golf gloves, to ensure you stay completely focused on enjoying the game.

Titleist Players Flex Men’s Golf Glove : These high-performance gloves are a classic for a reason. The cabretta leather is silky smooth, offering optimal comfort and breathability so your hands won't sweat midswing. Plus, the Satin Net materials across the knuckles provide plenty of flexibility.

Peter Millar Solid Performance Jersey Polo : If you're someone who gets caught up in the game and forgets to reapply sunscreen, this golf shirt is for you. Not only is it made of moisture-wicking materials available in 13 vibrant colors, but it also provides UPF 50+ sun protection so you can stay safe without even thinking about it.

Adidas Men's Tour360 22 Golf Shoes : These shoes provide excellent cushioning to keep you comfortable all day long and still feature 11 metal spikes for traction and grip. They're also designed with roomy toe boxes and heel reinforcement to ensure your foot stays in place.

Tips for Buying a Golf Travel Bag

Consider buying a stiff arm .

Whether you’re buying a hardside or softside golf travel bag, a stiff arm can add another layer of protection to your golf clubs. A stiff arm is usually an adjustable metal rod with a plastic disc at the the top of it that extends longer than the driver or longest golf club. The rod is placed into a golf bag to absorb the hit if the bag is tossed around, and it prevent the clubs from being directly impacted. 

Hardside versus softside 

When looking for a travel golf bag, you'll want to look at durability and padding. Both hardside and softside golf travel bags can prevent damage to your golf clubs while traveling and are a worthwhile investment for golfers that travel several times per year. As with luggage, hardside bags have a firm exterior generally made of materials like polycarbonate, whereas softside bags are a bit more flexible and made of soft materials like nylon.

A hardside bag can get more scuffed than a softside golf bag, but you might not need to buy a stiff arm since a hard case offers a more structured layer of protection. On the other hand, a softside bag might need extra protection like a stiff arm, but it’s easier to store a soft bag than a bulky hardside case that you can't flatten or fold down. Some airlines will only cover damaged or lost clubs that are in a hardside case, so be sure to check with the airline to find out the exact policies. 

Look at the types of wheels

From upright wheels to inline skate wheels, golf bags are created with a variety of options to make transport easier for all types of players. You should look at wheels that will smoothly and easily roll over different terrains without adding weight to the overall bag.

Frequently Asked Questions

You’ll want to make sure your golf bag and clubs can fit in a travel bag. While you don’t want to squeeze your clubs inside, you won’t want them swimming in a roomy case either. It helps to wrap club heads in a towel or other soft fabric to prevent the irons from banging together in transit. If there is extra room in your travel bag, stuffing the sides with more clothing or towels can help keep everything in place, especially if you’re flying. If you can remove and cover the club heads, that can further prevent damage to your gear. Some travel golf bags also have space for shoes and accessories, so be sure to utilize pockets to keep your gear organized and separated.

Every airline will be different, but most follow the same policies as regular checked luggage regarding weight and size limitations. The weight limit for checked luggage, including golf clubs, is almost always 50 pounds or less. If your bag weighs more, there will likely be a surcharge fee. Airlines also have different restrictions and policies for packing golf shoes or balls in your bag, and coverage for lost golf bags can be dependent on the type of golf travel bag. For peace of mind, consider securing an AirTag holder with a tracker to your golf bag.

Generally, airlines do not pay travelers for damaged golf clubs. Some, like American Airlines , may compensate if the equipment traveled in a hardside case that is visibly damaged and was properly packed, but you should always check your specific airline's policies before flying to guarantee safe and secure travel.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Anna Popp is the associate editor at T+L, where she writes and reviews travel products. She has been travel writing since 2018 and product testing since 2021. Anna worked with travel editors to determine the results for the best golf travel bags based on a series of tests completed by our testers while using the golf travel bags in a real-world setting. 

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Rothy's Review: These Are Our Favorite Shoes and Bags After Testing

Comfortable, washable and all the rage, Rothy's may be your new go-to shoe (and handbag!) brand.

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.

I discovered the brand's comfortable shoes made from plastic bottles via a YouTuber's Instagram story, but was hesitant to hit "add to cart" due to the often over-$150 price point. That's why I teamed up with pros in the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab to evaluate the brand's best-selling flats , work bags and more. Of the eight shoes and two bags we tested, I tried out three styles, one of which I have been wearing for over six months. All of this feedback boiled down to the following picks, which our testers (including myself) recommend if you have wide feet or need shoes designed for bunions .

The best Rothy's shoes

The Point II

Wu owns the Point II and appreciated how the brand incorporated more arch support into this newer version of the original Point flat . She found the shoes to fit true to size, which isn't always the case with pointed flats. "I personally have always gone half a size up in pointed flats for comfort, but I find that with this one, you can order them in your normal size as the knit fabric is structured yet forgiving," explained Wu. The extra support paired with stretchy fabric also makes these great if you have bunions.

A huge hallmark of these flats, and all Rothy's shoes, is that you can wash them in your washing machine. Separate the insoles from the shoes and wash both in cold water with mild detergent and on a delicate setting. Then let them air dry.

Wu liked the washability feature as flats can get kind of gross (we're only human!). One complaint previous testers found with Rothy's is that their feet became rather sweaty due to the knit fabric. Thankfully, easy cleaning lets you freshen up your flats.

The Square Mary Jane

The Mary Jane trend is here and thriving — maybe second to ballet flats in popularity. I used to steer away from Mary Jane shoes as I found the style to be frumpy, but that's not the case with Rothy's version. As Wu explained, Rothy's look sleeker than competing fabric footwear brands, and I have to agree.

From the square toe and thin strap to the knit fabric that effortlessly accommodates your feet, the Square Mary Jane is a top-seller in my mind (and among shoppers). In fact, the shoes have over 1,930 online reviews with an average 4.4 rating.

While I think a size 8 would be a more secure fit for me, I still find the 8.5 to be comfortable and have not experienced my heel slipping out from the back. The flats are easy to slip on and off and the looser fit even allows me to put in extra insoles if I want more support while walking around for multiple hours. Even without my insoles, though, I find the shoes to be supportive enough to tackle work commutes, family parties and walks around a garden.

Note that some colors (including the Soiree Pink which I own) are final sale or low in stock.

The Ballet Flat

I won't lie: I feel transported to my ballet days while wearing these adorable flats. The delicate bows on the rounded toe combine girly chic with classic elegance and I haven't found a pair of pants that the cerulean blue doesn't coordinate well with.

Wu also owns these ballet flats in the glamour red color and loves them. "They have that classic, chic look, and I find them comfortable for all-day wear," she said. Both Wu and I find that these flats balance comfort and style to perfection, although note that your feet can become a bit warm on a hotter day.

Wu ordered her regular size and noted that they were a bit roomy. Since her feet swell throughout the day, the flats ended up having the perfect fit.

I ordered the size 8 (instead of my usual 8.5) and found it to be an ideal snug fit, although my toes felt a bit jammed towards the front. However, I experienced a blister on the back of my heel on my left foot and actually bled onto the shoe. I will spare you the gory details, but I appreciate that I will be able to easily wash these shoes (and hopefully get the stain out).

If you want a flat without the bow, consider this sleek flat that is similar in style with a rounded toe but has a unique v-shaped vamp. This is one of the more popular Rothy's shoes I see most often when walking around the city.

The Casual Clog

Sometimes you want to slip on a pair of shoes and go . If you are a fan of Birkenstocks, the Casual Clog may be the Rothy's shoes for you. Made of the brand's signature thread and hemp or wool (depending on color), you can toss these clogs in the wash for easy cleaning.

Assistant Commerce Editor Isabella Cavallo appreciated the molded insoles for comfort while standing for long periods. "These shoes were so breathable and my feet didn't get sweaty without socks on — something that I can not say for my other flats," she added. Cavallo also loved how she can pair these versatile clogs with both jeans or a skirt.

While Cavallo found the shoes to be cute, she had a few qualms and wasn't sure she would spend almost $160 on the clogs. Since the shoes are open back, they tend to behave like flip-flops as you walk. Cavallo experienced red marks and a cut on the top of the foot as well. She found the material to be a bit itchy, although noted that she didn't wear the shoes with a pair of socks .

The Original Slip On Sneaker

Although I usually spot Rothy's flats and loafers on the sidewalks of New York, the shoe brand also sells sneakers of various heights with and without laces. The Slip On is available in 10 colors (two of which are also made of hemp) and has a flexible upper for comfort. Insoles aid in comfort as well. These sneakers have accumulated over 14,800 online shopper reviews with consumers finding the shoes fit true to size.

Product Analyst Eva Bleyer tested an older version of the shoe and continues to reach for the sneaker summer after summer. "They are super comfortable, support my bunion and are even good for my flat feet ," said Bleyer. Similar to the clogs Cavallo tested, Bleyer also found the sneakers to be very versatile: "I can dress the shoes up and down." Bleyer did note that the shoes can get dirty pretty fast, perhaps due to the light cream color she owns, but she appreciates being able to easily wash them — she has put them in the washing machine over a dozen times!

One thing to note, though, is that one GH staffer's husband tried out a pair of men's sneakers , and while he found them lightweight and easy to pack, they unfortunately began to unravel after just a few months. He is still able to wear the shoes, but there wasn't an easy way to stop the knit fabric from unraveling.

The Almond Loafer

Loafers have had quite the resurgence in popularity, too. When roaming Rothy's site, I was impressed with the sheer amount of loafers available, including various toe shapes and patterns.

Bleyer tested the Almond Loafer and found them very comfortable upon immediate wear and didn't experience a break-in period. Her bunion didn't hurt, and even when traveling her feet felt supported. She liked the unique almond-shaped pointy toe and dressed them up with a dress. Bleyer thought the loafer was a bit too big, but it wasn't a deal-breaker for her.

You can choose from 13 colors and patterns including classic leopard and chai twill (pictured). Note that some colors are final sale or low in stock.

The Lounge Loafer

I am a big fan of rounded-toe shoes, although I can be picky when it comes to loafers as I often find leather styles to be uncomfortable. That's not the case with the Lounge Loafer. True to their name, I padded around my apartment in these shoes and was impressed with the comfy, snug fit. I experienced no break-in period (unlike with the Ballet Flat) and am o bsessed with the black trim around the edge of the shoe.

A tell-tale sign that someone is wearing a pair of Rothy's is the subtle blue rim on the heel. Before testing the Lounge Loafer, I wasn't crazy about this detail as I felt like it sometimes clashed with the rest of the shoe. But when styling this loafer, I came around to the extra pop of color.

Paired with a midi skirt, it looked office chic and the Venetian vamp, with a shorter upper, gave it that extra flare. Since I opted for the vanilla color (pictured), I found that the shoes became dirty pretty quickly.

The Lug Loafer

Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab Senior Analyst Emma Seymour was skeptical of these loafers at first because she thought the knit fabric would be too casual. But she swiftly changed her mind and said they are "formal enough for work and chic enough to wear out of the office."

While Seymour may prefer the aesthetic of leather loafers, these are way more comfortable. "I never find traditional leather loafers comfortable (they usually leave me with painful blisters) — this pair was comfortable right of the box," reported Seymour. With or without socks, she was able to wear the shoes without pain for several hours.

I will admit that I wish the pointy toe was more rounded, but I was surprised at how supportive these loafers felt when posing for a round of photos (pictured). Like other Rothy's, these shoes are made from recycled plastic bottles as well as merino wool. I am usually sensitive to wool, but I didn't find these itchy.

The slight heel literally elevates the look and both the onyx black and teak herringbone are timeless colors.

The Driver falls in the mid-range in terms of price (less expensive than the Lug Loafer but pricier than the Almond and Lounge loafers). While I find this style to be chunkier than other Rothy's loafers, I appreciate the sturdy outsoles that feature nubby grips. I almost slipped a few times in my ballet flats as they have a less grippy outsole. The Driver solves this problem while maintaining a flexible knit upper and cushy insoles.

These loafers have over 7,300 online reviews with an overall 4.6-star rating. Most shoppers said the Driver fits true to size and commented on how cute the loafers are: "They are my go-to when I travel for work because they are comfy and cute," wrote one five-star review.

Multiple shoppers have ordered a second pair and another positive review said, " I can wear them walking for several hours and they don't rub anywhere." One shopper did note that, as with all Rothy's, their feet became a little stinky, but this was easily remedied with a quick wash.

The Weekend Slide

Backless slides are another easy shoe to slide on in a rush in the spring and summer. While the shoes are still close to $140, they are slightly more affordable than other Rothy's we've included in this list.

The two criss-cross straps are boho chic, and you can choose from five colors and patterns. Like the Casual Clogs, the Weekend Slide also features a molded footbed. Wu initially found the slides comfortable but began to experience blisters because the straps dug slightly into her feet.

Still, these shoes have over 500 online reviews, with one five-star review that said, "I have been wearing these sandals nonstop." Other reviewers noted the sturdy construction, comfortable fit and stylish design. Another happy customer even wrote, "I have never had a sandal that was comfortable to wear long term."

The best Rothy's bags

The Lightweight Tote

Prior to doing a deep dive into Rothy's website, I didn't know that the brand also sells washable bags including this tote that multiple GH staffers own and love.

Deputy Director Michelle Manetti owns both the Lightweight Tote pictured here as well as the Mega Tote , great for grocery shopping, weekend travel or a day trip to the beach. The regular Lightweight Tote is not as big, but still spacious enough to fit everything you need. "I travel light to work, so it perfectly fits my 15-inch laptop, charger and a few other essentials," said Manetti. While there aren't any interior pockets, there's plenty of room to also add a makeup bag .

The best part is that you can toss this bag in the washing machine along with your Rothy's shoes. "I can't stress enough how amazing it is to be able to wash a work bag and not have to worry about compromising its shape or the look," added Manetti. No more worrying about removing stains after placing your bag on the subway floor or if your lunch spilled inside.

The only downside for Manetti is that when the bag is very full or she is wearing a winter coat, the straps tend to fall off.

Elizabeth Berry (she/her) is the Updates Editor at the Good Housekeeping Institute where she optimizes lifestyle content across verticals. Prior to this role, she was an Editorial Assistant for Woman’s Day where she covered everything from gift guides to recipes. She also has experience fact checking commerce articles and holds a B.A. in English and Italian Studies from Connecticut College.

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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Reviews 1.6.

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BORING When did this brand become so DULL- used to buy loads now its just bland boring generic STUFF

Date of experience : May 26, 2024

customer service feels almost non-existent

I am very disappointed with this company. I placed an order worth almost €400 six days ago, but they have not even shipped it, despite the website stating delivery within 4-5 business days. It wouldn't hurt if they mentioned that it takes a week or two to ship. Awful. Their customer service is slow, and it feels almost non-existent. I did not expect such poor service from a European company, particularly considering the prices they charge. I love Arket clothing, but their service is unacceptable. A deal breaker at its best.

Date of experience : May 05, 2024

Terrible quality for such high prices

Terrible quality for such high prices. I purchased an expensive winter coat as I wanted something high quality that will last long. However to zip broke after very few uses and Arket refused to do anything about it. All I kept receiving were emails that you can tell were copy paste apologies. So disappointing! The quality of Zara or other street fashion brand is sooo much better. Avoid!!

Date of experience : April 26, 2024

Overall Digital experience is sh#t

Overall Digital experience is sh#t. I can't pay with my Visa Infinite card, I can't pay with my friends Revolut card, can't change country in settings (it's broken), cache is not working - had to add to cart 20 times, desktop is lagging when I try to add more clothes (mobile is fine), Klarna is sh#t. Was trying to make a purchase from multiple devices, 3 browsers, 2 cards.

Date of experience : May 04, 2024

Poor shipping experience

I think that Arket really needs to improve their shipping logistics. The delivery timelines, (especially since they charge for anything under £120) is really unacceptably prolonged and very out of sync with the rest of the high street brands. I don’t think I’ve ever received anything in under a week and it’s often delayed for no good reason. To remain competitive they need to give this some proper focus.

Date of experience : April 18, 2024

I think Arket needs to figure out their…

I think Arket needs to figure out their shipping and delivery schedules, another online brands get their deliveries out asap, and I’m still waiting on a bra and knickers ordered a week ago! Evri their delivery service has it sitting in a warehouse? Honestly in this day and age it’s unacceptable, I honestly don’t think I’ll shop with them again. I’m not going to receive my order in time as I’m going away on holiday, very disappointing service.

Date of experience : April 24, 2024

I received a damaged product

I received a damaged product. These were dishes that arrived broken into pieces. (and it was also a gift.) Arket refuses to return the money and asks to return this heavy huge parcel with fragments back to them so that they can process the return. Seriously?! I don’t have a car and I don’t have time to go across the city to send them back broken goods that they no longer have the right to sell anyway, it’s garbage! I’m really disappointed with this customer service… Be careful when ordering something fragile from Arket and think twice before doing it!

Date of experience : April 09, 2024

What is wrong with Arket !!Why is there…

What is wrong with Arket !!Why is their shipping so slow.They charge £5 and it takes 8 to 10 working days!!!Don’t they want repeat customers.I ordered 8 items from various stores Zara, Birkenstock,John Lewis,Amazon etc all items have now been delivered free of charge next day delivery The Arket item is still in the warehouse! I tried to use the express delivery which still takes 2 to 3 working days at a charge of £10 but of course that was not available.I have phoned and spoken to Arket and tried to hurry along the order but they just say that is their system! Arket listen to your customers you will not have repeat purchases with shipping so slow and customer service who are not willing to step in and act to solve problems.

Date of experience : April 14, 2024

Order never arrived - really poor

Ordered a t shirt (£37 so expensive for a shirt, but it was described as heavy, so was hoping it would be a quality piece). Shirt never arrived though. Waited 3 weeks and still "at warehouse awaiting pick up by Evri". Customer Service have promised to refund my money (hopefully that comes through) but no shirt and a 15% off voucher for my next purchase, which is useless as I will not be buying from them again.

Date of experience : March 30, 2024

Delivery time too long. Still waiting for pick up by Evri.

I have ordered several items from Arket recently but I am very disappointed in the time it takes to deliver. Wish I had read reviews before ordering.

Date of experience : April 19, 2024

Damaged order arrived which can clearly…

Damaged order arrived which can clearly be shown in pictures but they insist I return it for a refund. This should never be the case, the item cannot be resold so a replacement should be issued or at least a refund without the hassle of returning it. Absolutely terrible and so inconvenient. I won’t be ordering from them again.

Date of experience : March 27, 2024

Items never arrived

Placed an order for items for a holiday on 3-4 days delivery. They never arrived. It’s now 13 days later and a helpful Arket customer services colleague informed me they are being sent back to the sender by Evri but only after I contacted them. Frustrating as I am out of pocket and have no items to show for it. Edited to add 2/4/24: Arket emailed today to confirm the parcel has arrived back with them but that I will be charged a ‘return fee’. Given I never received the parcel and it was returned by Evri, I find this frustrating and have requested full reimbursement without charges for return. Wont shop with Arket - something has gone wrong at every stage.

Date of experience : March 23, 2024

I paid £250 for a bad quality coat

I paid £250 for a coat whose pockets tore off repeatedly. I can't use my pockets and am constantly loosing my stuff. I have bought fast fashion of better quality. When I contacted customer support they told me to go back to the store as they can't process issues online. I really don't have the time to take hours out of my day to go and find a store to deal with this. Poor quality and customer service all around. I'd never buy from them again.

Date of experience : December 14, 2023

Arket Basics Crew-Neck…

Ordered 2 Arket Basics Crew-Neck T-shirts on line (one black, one white) after seeing them recommended on a magazine website. No problem with delivery or return. Sadly, like the majority of t-shirts these days, the material is on the thin side, so the white was see through and they are just straight cut with no shape, so didn't suit my curves. My hunt for the pefect t-shirt continues.

Date of experience : October 11, 2023

Clunky delivery service

I think the Arket delivery service is quite clunky - it’s slow and no amends can be made after even if you reach out to arket immediately after the order is made. My package is going to an incorrect address - Margret firstly offered a recall service which I Immediately accepted - 48 hours later I get a call saying that as my package was going to a parcel shop, they would not be able to recall the order. The only advice that could give me was that it will have to be delivered, if not collected after 10 days, it would be returned to them and in return a refund would be issued. What the customer service assistant failed to grasp was that they would now be sitting on my money for around a month. Having worked in CS and e-commerce, I understand that limitations of online retails but this is beyond frustrating - The service is already slow by comparison to many online retailers - the failure to allow a window of amendment that makes that slowness so much worse.

I bought a Beanie hat for £57 and paid…

I bought a Beanie hat for £57 and paid in full. The bank statement shows 'Arket - Klarna' even though I did NOT choose to pay with Klarna. I know that any mention of Klarna on financial statements could potentially influence credit assessments, such as mortgage decisions, given its association with excessive shopping / installment payments. I did not consent to have my payment information processed by Klarna. This is not clear in your payment options during checkout, when selecting to pay in full! Please change this Arket.

Date of experience : February 06, 2024

So slow at sending items

Slow delivery! Also I returned the item I bought because a size small is massive! Sent it back weeks ago and first attempt to deliver they asked Royal Mail to delay delivering it back which I thought was strange. Eventually they have delivered it but they haven’t acknowledged my return or issued a refund. Just avoid it’s not worth the hassle. I returned to Zara the same day and I had my refund ages ago something dodgy about this company

Date of experience : January 04, 2024

Pleasantly surprised!

Having read the reviews on here, I was apprehensive about ordering from Arket. However, my experience with them has been great. My order was coming from the Netherlands and arrived in 7 days. I emailed Arket who replied the same day. There are comments on here about poor returns, but my order arrived with a returns label (which wasn’t needed as my item is lovely) I will definitely buy from Arket again.

Date of experience : March 08, 2023

I totally expected to be getting ripped off …

I totally expected to be getting ripped off. I totally expected never to see the shoes never to get my money back but they were such a good deal I just couldn’t resist. Imagine my surprise when they actually showed up and were exactly as they had been pictured in the ad. Then I realized they are actually sold on Amazon also. So just because something is reasonably priced does not necessarily mean it’s a fake fraud rip off ad.

Date of experience : August 31, 2022

Trying to fix your mess !!

Just placed an order via Spanish site. Wrote full address and upon confirmation email sent of order parts of address missing. Called customer service straight away to inform them there’s a computer fault and to update my delivery details with missing info. Was told Not possible. System won’t allow until delivery company has the goods. How insane is that. Trying to avoid their system failure and it’s not possible to change.

Date of experience : March 30, 2022

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Moscow Tour & Trip Reviews

308 reviews Average rating 4.7 60 trips

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Moscow Tour & Trip Ratings

Tour Reviews

Capitals of the North

some hotels could have been better

It was jam packed with every place I wanted to go and see. I especially love my photo of us setting out on the night time river cruise in St Petersburg and the Peter...

I really did not buy much and what I did buy was small gifts for others .

Johanna-Marie

Good hotels, some better than others. Interesting itinerary

Too rushed. Optional tour rather too short

Moscow Reviews

We saw everything that we wanted to.

Itinerary was fine but coach was below the standard of other Trafalgar tours I have been on e.g video system didn’t work and quite a few times the back door had to b...

The itinerary was good so were the hotels (especially the last one i.e. The Crowne Plaza, Moscow). Dimitri, our driver ensured that the coach was always spotless an...

Trafalgar took care of all the hassle one would have to go through to get to all the tourist spots and the tricky areas, for example getting a tour inside the Kremli...

I was disappointed that we weren't given the option to do the Danish Traditions & Canal Cruise in Copenhagen or the Traditional Helsinki Dinner. I enjoyed Russia...

Top Moscow Tours

St Petersburg & Moscow in Style - Winter

Lower Volga Voyage

Volga Dream Russian River Cruise

St Petersburg & Moscow in Style - Summer

White Russian - 7 days

Vodka Shot - 6 days

Route of the Romanovs - 10 days

New Year's in Moscow - 9 days

Back in the USSR - 7 days

Russian Revolution - 9 days

The Snowball - 6 days

Mood for Moscow - 4 days

Discover Russia - 9 days

Golden Ring of Russia - 7 days

Imperial Waterways of Russia (2021)

Russia family adventure

we were exposed to both basic living and history; we saw all aspects of ...

I really enjoyed the itinerary -- the only thing I would have c...

Little tiring especially for older people.May the tour for...

Provide a bus with working equipment i.e TV Trip leader...

No complaints to think of

Sometimes not too clear what's going to happen, etc

We saw lots of places and things and if you chose not to do...

Hotels and locations were great. Most of the excursions were great.

Tour director and driver did their best but we panted much with our optional local tour guides

Must take all the optional tours to get a great appreciation of the countries

1 - 20 of 308 Reviews shown

Editor’s Take

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Tours, Cruises & Private Trips

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Observe Memorial Day with these events in southern Maine

Tons of towns have parades and ceremonies happening Monday.

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Kids and adults gather at a Memorial Day parade to honor and celebrate veterans in South Portland. Sofia Aldinio/ Staff Photographer

BATH 10 a.m. Monday. Parade begins at 200 Congress Ave. and concludes at Library Park and will be followed by a wreath-laying service at 11 a.m.

BERWICK 11 a.m. Monday. Parade begins at Berwick Town Hall/Sullivan Square and proceeds to Lord’s Cemetery by way of Wilson and Allen streets. After a ceremony there, the parade will continue down Saw Mill Hill Street with a pause at the Somersworth-Berwick Bridge for a brief memorial service for those lost at sea. The parade ends at Sullivan Square with a memorial service honoring area veterans.

BIDDEFORD-SACO Opening ceremony at 9:55 a.m. Monday at Saco City Hall. Parade starts at 10 a.m. from Saco City Hall and proceeds along Main Street and down York Hill into Biddeford, continues along Main Street, onto Alfred Street and finishes at Veteran’s Memorial Park with a closing ceremony at 10:45 a.m.

BRUNSWICK-TOPSHAM 9 a.m. Monday. Parade proceeds from Topsham Town Hall, pauses for observances while crossing the Brunswick-Topsham bridge, and concludes at the Brunswick Mall.

CAPE ELIZABETH 9 a.m. Monday. Parade begins at the middle school parking lot, turns right on Scott Dyer Road, right onto Route 77 and ends at the village green adjacent to the town hall. A brief ceremony and laying of the wreath will be held at the Village Green after the parade.

CUMBERLAND 8 a.m. Monday. Kids run at Greely High School followed by 5K Run and Remember race at 8:30 a.m. Parade starts at 10 a.m. at Mabel I. Wilson School and ends at the veterans’ monument in Moss Side Cemetery in Cumberland Center, where a ceremony will be held at 10:30 a.m. Advertisement

FALMOUTH 10 a.m. Monday. Parade proceeds from 65 Depot Road (Falmouth American Legion) to Pine Grove Park, where a ceremony will be held.

FREEPORT 9:30 a.m. Monday. Parade proceeds from Holbrook Street, heads north on Main and makes a right onto School Street, then right onto Park Street, ending in Memorial Park. There will be a small ceremony in Memorial Park starting at 10 a.m.

GORHAM 11 a.m. Monday. Parade starts at Village School (12 Robie St.) and ends at Eastern Cemetery on Johnson Road.

GRAY 11:30 a.m. Monday. Parade leaves the Russell School (8 Gray Park), proceeds to Shaker Road and continues to the Soldiers Monument at the intersection of Routes 26 and 3 for a wreath-laying ceremony. Parade continues north to the American Legion Post (15 Lewiston Road) for a closing ceremony.

LYMAN 1 p.m. Monday. Parade starts at Waterhouse Road/Mill Pond in Goodwins Mills and ends at the Lyman Town Hall on South Waterboro Road.

NEW GLOUCESTER 9 a.m. Monday. Parade leaves from Memorial Elementary School (86 Intervale Road) and heads down Intervale Road to Route 100/202 to Veterans Park for a memorial service. The parade will reconvene and go down Peacock Hill Road, then take a left on Gilmore Road. Advertisement

OLD ORCHARD BEACH 1 p.m. Monday. Parade starts at the corner of Ballpark Way and E. Emerson Cumming Boulevard and proceeds down Saco Avenue, Old Orchard Beach Street to First Street and ends at Veteran’s Memorial Park.

PORTLAND 2 p.m. Monday. The procession starts at Longfellow School (432 Stevens Ave.) and ends at Evergreen Cemetery for a commemoration ceremony.

SANFORD 10 a.m. Monday. The parade starts at the Sanford Armory (88 William Oscar Emery Drive), proceeds up Gowen Park Drive and ends at Central Park.

SCARBOROUGH 10 a.m. Monday. Parade starts at Scarborough High School, turns onto Route 114 and then Route 1, past town offices to the Maine Veterans Home and concludes with a ceremony there.

SOUTH PORTLAND 10:30 a.m. Monday. Parade starts at Southern Maine Community College parking lot, proceeds down Broadway to the Veterans Monument for a short Memorial Day recognition service.

WELLS 9 a.m. Monday. Parade starts at Wells High School (200 Sanford Road) and proceeds to Ocean View Cemetery for a ceremony and musical performances. Advertisement

WESTBROOK 10 a.m. Monday. Parade proceeds down Main Street and will be followed by a ceremony in Riverbank Park.

WINDHAM 9 a.m. Monday. Parade starts at Windham Town Hall and proceeds onto Route 202 toward Windham High School. At 10 a.m., there will be a ceremony in front of Windham’s Veterans Memorial Flagpole at Windham High School.

YARMOUTH 10 a.m. Monday. Parade leaves from Yarmouth High School (286 West Elm St.) and proceeds to the Memorial Green at Town Hall for a ceremony.

YORK 10 a.m. Monday. Parade starts near St. Christopher’s Church (4 Barrell Lane) and proceeds down York Street to York Town Hall.

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Sen. Susan Collins decries Trump’s conviction

Trump becomes first former u.s. president convicted of felony crimes, don mclean’s appearance at white house dinner sends ‘dangerous’ message about domestic violence, ex-wife says, thrd act maine protests l.l. bean at memorial day parade, durham man on a mission to build affordable housing for people with physical disabilities, daily headlines.

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