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The Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks

By Kit Dillon

Kit Dillon is a writer focused on bags and travel gear. He has worked for Wirecutter for a decade and lost count of the number of bags he has tested.

When you open up your favorite carry-on travel backpack, it should feel like you’re opening the door to a well-organized closet or sitting down at a clean desk, with everything in the right place and easy to reach.

This is your moment to center yourself, no matter how chaotic the journey.

What we considered

A 45-liter bag maximizes overhead space but can get heavy when fully packed; 35-liter bags tend to be more manageable.

A bag with a clamshell design opens like a book and is the easiest to pack, but a bag that opens traditionally tends to have more structure.

Ideally, a travel backpack has handles on all sides—especially the bottom—so you can pull it out of overhead bins or from under seats.

Some internal pockets are useful, but major organizing is better managed with packing cubes.

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack and the larger Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L offer the best combination of features, quality, and durability. Both bags are exemplary carry-on travel backpacks that are designed for comfort, durability, and organization. Though these backpacks are great as companion bags for any trip, they’re designed to ultimately replace all of your other luggage and become your exclusive bag as you travel.

This style of packing is not for everyone, but once some people try it, they’re forever hooked. Finding the right bag is a personal choice, though, and no single bag will appeal to everyone. That’s why we also have picks that are great for people who travel for work , others that are designed to be carried over long distances , and a bag that’s basically luggage on your back .

The research

Why you should trust us, who this is for, best small carry-on bag for most situations: cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack, best large bag for most situations: peak design travel backpack 45l, best mobile office: patagonia black hole mlc 45l, best bag for long journeys on foot: osprey farpoint 40 and fairview 40, best bag if you need a large suitcase on your back: tortuga travel backpack pro 40l, other good carry-on travel backpacks, how we picked and tested, the competition.

I’ve been covering aspects of luggage and travel bag design for Wirecutter for nearly a decade, and I have personally researched, tested, and compared hundreds of bags in that time. I personally try to do most of my travel with a single backpack, whenever possible. I spent nine months roaming around Hawaii with not much more than that, and I spent another six months nomadically couch-surfing in New York City.

I reached out to writers who specialize in traveling the world carrying everything they need in a single bag: Eytan Levy, the owner and operator of the Snarky Nomad travel website; James Feess, founder of The Savvy Backpacker ; and Sharon Gourlay, of the Where’s Sharon? travel website. I also spoke with moderators of Reddit’s r/onebag and r/heronebag forums, as well as with Chase Reeves, bag fanatic, reviewer, and owner of Matterful .

We researched and tested bags designed for those who want to travel light and stay flexible while flying, without the burden of checking luggage. For some people, the challenge of cutting down a packing list is intimidating. But if you can get past that initial hurdle, traveling with a single bag is a revelation. With fewer items, you have more time to concentrate on and appreciate the journey.

• When you’re not loaded down by heavy luggage, it’s easy to remain more mobile. And it’s easier to adjust your plans mid-trip. If you’re willing to do laundry on the road, then one bag is all you need to travel indefinitely. At its heart, one-bag travel allows you to discover more—not just about the places you’re going but also about yourself and what you really need day to day.
• Size and weight still matter. If you desire more creature comforts or more gear, or if you plan to be away for a long time across multiple climates, you’ll want a bigger travel backpack . These larger bags tend not to be carry-on-friendly, however, especially in Europe, so be prepared to check them.
• No single backpack is perfect for everyone. Before you make any purchase, consider some basic points. How much can you carry? And where do you usually visit: the city or outback? Travel gear should feel like a welcome companion—there to support you when you need it but unobtrusive when you don’t.

45-liter bag vs. 35-liter bag

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

A versatile small pack for a week or a weekend.

This durable bag’s clamshell design makes it easy to organize your stuff. And due to its strap design, this bag can be worn on your back or carried in your hand while you’re on the move.

Buying Options

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack is an easy-to-organize, comfortable-to-carry bag for getaways lasting just a few days or a whole week.

It’s one bag that can do it all. This is a great all-around bag for any traveler who’s dedicated to packing light, or for a smaller person who wants less to carry. There are handles on all four sides of this bag, so it’s easy to grab no matter where you’ve stowed it. It’s also protected by a full lifetime warranty, and it has the build quality to back that up. After more than four years of testing, this single backpack (plus a personal item ) has replaced nearly every travel bag or piece of luggage I use.

It comes in various sizes, but we think the middle-of-the-road version is the best. Cotopaxi also makes the Allpa in 28-liter and 42-liter sizes. But for us, the 35-liter bag is the best option. At 42 liters, this bag becomes heavy for most people to carry when it is fully packed, and we’d prefer that it had a more-robust hip belt. At 28 liters, the bag becomes a touch small for most people, and its internal organization feels fussy for shorter trips, such as an overnight. Cotopaxi also makes a hip pack , which is designed to fit snugly into the Allpa bag’s front top compartment. It’s a neat little addition to the bag, and it is worth getting if you like wearing fanny packs while you travel.

It’s organized, easy to pack, and easy to carry. The Allpa bag has a clamshell design, so it opens like a hard-sided suitcase—a large YKK zipper runs around three sides of the bag, allowing it to fall open into two halves when unzipped. On the right side is a deep compartment, spacious enough for two large packing cubes or half a suitcase’s worth of clothing (which you access through a mesh zippered flap). On the left, there’s space for one more medium-size packing cube behind a zippered flap. Above that there are two smaller pockets with high-visibility backing—useful when you’re looking for hard-to-differentiate personal items.

It’s secure but still accessible. The Allpa pack has two side-access zippers—great for on-the-go access, especially when the bag is hanging from your shoulder. One of these reveals a flat computer pocket with a padded false bottom; so if you drop the bag, it won’t land on the corner of your computer. The other reveals a “secret” pocket with a hidden zipper and access to the main compartment. All of the main compartment zippers are protected by security loops, which you thread the zipper through at the end of its run. This prevents anyone from subtly or quickly grabbing a zipper and opening your bag when you aren’t paying attention.

It’s comfortable to carry. The Allpa bag’s hip belt—which can be removed while the bag is on your back—is substantial enough that it’s comfortable to wear when you need it. With or without the hip belt, the Allpa bag is comfortable to carry over long distances. However, folks who have longer torsos (over 19 inches) may find that the waist belt sits a little high off the hips, unless you fully extend the shoulder straps. Speaking of shoulder straps, unlike the ones on our other picks, the Allpa bag’s straps are contoured to fit people who have large or small chests. It’s not a specifically gendered design, but our female tester noticed the improvement right away.

The Allpa pack is made with 1680-denier ballistic nylon, similar to the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 45 . (Denier is a measure of a fabric’s fiber thickness.) It feels similar to a strong canvas, but it has a more prominent weave. This is the type of bag that’s as easy to toss into an overhead compartment as it is into the back of a rusty pickup truck. And it also includes a rainfly, which is unique in this category.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• Though this pack is well organized for packing, it’s less ideal as a mobile office. The Allpa pack has a minimal amount of administrative organization—places to keep pens and papers, spaces to hold tickets, and so forth. This is where a good personal item comes in handy. However, if you want to travel with just this one bag, there are a few nooks you can hide things in. The front organizer is deep enough that you can also fit several small organizing pouches, if you want, or the aforementioned fanny pack.
• We prefer the model without the TPU front. Cotopaxi does enjoy playing around with fabrics and colors. Sometimes the company has released the Allpa pack without the TPU-lined front panel. The TPU panel improves water resistance, but after many years of traveling with our bag, we’ve found that the TPU layering can begin to flake in spots.

Capacity: 35 liters Weight: 3 pounds 5 ounces Main compartment access: clamshell opening Style: adventurous Colors: assorted

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

An easily customizable large bag for long trips and expensive gear.

This bag was built with photographers in mind. Yet most travelers will appreciate its easy accessibility, clever tuck-away straps, and the elegant way the bag expands and contracts. The accessory cubes cost extra, though.

The Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is a good choice for those carrying more expensive gear—especially camera gear. It’s also great for those who prefer a large, backpack-based packing system.

One bag provides many configurations. Some bags in this category are built to do one thing extremely well—be carried on your back. But the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is built to adapt. It’s the Swiss Army knife of backpacks: adjustable, customizable, and (if you spring for the extra cubes and organizers) an almost perfect system for a photographer or gearhead on the move. Most bags’ expanding mechanisms aren’t worth the extra zipper they’re built on, and they look about as attractive as a boiled ham splitting out of its plastic packaging. That’s not the case with the Peak Design: This bag looks just as good fully packed at 45 liters as it does compressed to a 30-liter daypack.

It’s expandable, with clever folds and zippers. You can access the bag through a back panel (which doubles as a computer and tablet pouch) as well as a front one (if you unzip the pass-through divider). You can also get into the main compartment via two wing-like trapezoidal flaps, which run along each side of the pack. In its natural shape, the Travel Backpack holds 35 liters, but an expansion zipper lets the bag swell to 45 liters. If you want to use the bag as a daypack, you fold in the top corners and snap them down, reducing the bag’s volume to a slim 30 liters. In this configuration, it will still feel larger than a normal daypack, but we think that’s a small compromise for being able to use one backpack as both your travel bag and your daily explorer. The bag itself consists of 400-denier nylon and polyester fabrics. It feels tough but not as tough as some other bags we’ve tested, such as the Cotopaxi Allpa.

It has fold-away straps, for easier storage. The Peak Design lets you tuck its shoulder and hip straps away when you’re not using them. But unlike any other bag we’ve ever tested, this pack has magnetic flaps on the back panel that open and close with an almost magical snap. Once you’ve played with them, you’ll wonder why every backpack doesn’t have something similar. A small, childish part of me still gets excited about tucking away the straps when I put the Peak Design into an overhead bin. Although the straps are thin, they’re still comfortable. The hip belt isn’t quite as plush as the one on the Tortuga pack; still, even when the Peak Design is fully loaded, the belt doesn’t pinch or dig into the body.

It’s great for carrying expensive gear. If you travel with a camera, you don’t have to use Peak Design’s camera cubes , but they do make carrying that gear a whole lot easier. The cubes come in five sizes. And if they’re situated properly in the bag with the provided clips, they line up with the Travel Backpack’s side-access flaps for quick access. Caleigh Waldman (a photographer for this piece and, full disclosure, my spouse) took this bag across the country for a wedding shoot. “I want this backpack,” she said after three weeks of travel. “I want to travel with it everywhere. With my cameras. Without my cameras. It doesn’t matter. I want to travel with it.”

• It’s expensive—especially if you commit to the entire system of packing and camera cubes.
• More complexity means more things that can break. The adjustable design and multiple zippers do add complexity, and complexity adds potential weaknesses. Peak Design covers all of its bags with a lifetime warranty , which should alleviate most people’s concerns. But if you’re particularly hard on your gear and still need to carry as much as possible, you might consider the Tortuga bag instead.

Capacity: 45 liters Weight: 4½ pounds Main compartment access: back-panel loader Style: minimalist and unobtrusive Color: black, sage

Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L

Combines more organization with a simple interior.

This bag’s split interior makes organizing easy. Those who travel for work will appreciate this bag’s dedicated panels for organizing tech, books, papers, and assorted miscellaneous items.

If you travel often for business and prefer a bag that’s much easier to work out of than most of our other picks, you may like the Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L . This bag has a front panel and assorted pockets that make it feel like a small traveling office.

It’s built like luggage but organized like your office. Of all the bags we recommend, the MLC (short for Maximum Legal Carry) comes closest to being a suitcase on your back, due to its large size, simple interior, and minimal external features. The MLC is also one of the simplest bags we tested, divided into two leaves (imagine a book with only one page), with a main compartment for packing and a second compartment for document organization and tech storage. The MLC has a built-in laptop compartment that fits 17-inch laptops and is situated close to your back; this protects the computer and keeps its weight closer to your body.

Despite its size, it’s comfortable enough to carry. Most carry-on backpacks of this size, without frames, become somewhat unwieldy when fully packed. Thankfully, the Black Hole MLC bag, like the Cotopaxi Allpa, is a welcome exception to this rule. The MLC has two shoulder straps, a hip belt, and an optional shoulder strap, for easy carrying. When they're not in use, or when you’re checking your bag, all of the straps can be stowed away easily. When fully loaded, the bag was pleasant to carry—not as comfortable as the Peak Design or the Osprey, but decent enough. I wouldn’t want to carry it all day across a city, but I wouldn’t mind carrying it through an airport to a car and to a hotel.

It’s built from high-quality materials, with durability in mind. This pack is made from recycled polyester, and the fabric is woven in a cross-weave that’s very similar to what Patagonia uses in its long-lasting Black Hole series of duffle bags . This is a material I’ve come across a bunch with Patagonia gear, and I’ve tested it thoroughly; it’s very tough. The front of the bag is coated in a weather-resistant TPU, for extra protection from the elements. The bag has large YKK zippers (the industry leader) and smaller YKK zippers throughout. Unlike the Cotopaxi Allpa pack, the Black Hole MLC bag has no security loops.

It comes with one of the best repair programs and a lifetime warranty. Similar to our other picks, the MLC is backed by an excellent lifetime warranty , and we’ve always found that Patagonia’s repair program goes above and beyond other comparable companies.

• We wish the Maximum Legal Carry (despite the name) came in a few more sizes. The 45-liter capacity may be intimidating for some people, and there is no alternative.

Capacity: 45 liters Weight: 3 pounds 10 ounces Main compartment access: clamshell Style: retro Colors: tan, black, olive, green

Osprey Farpoint 40

For long distances on foot.

A great starter option for one-bag travel, this bag is easy to pack, adaptable to most situations, and sturdy enough to take with you as you travel the world.

Osprey Fairview 40

For long distances and smaller torsos.

A scaled-down version of the Farpoint, this bag has shoulder straps that are slightly lower, to keep the bag’s bulk more aligned with smaller torsos.

Updated in 2023, the Osprey Farpoint 40 and Fairview 40 packs are both built around a hiking backpack frame that’s easy to carry over long distances.

It’s built for travel but designed for hiking. The Farpoint 40 bag is well made, easy to pack, and comfortable to carry over most mid-length distances—such as walking across a city for an afternoon. (For simplicity’s sake, everything we say here about the Farpoint bag also applies to the Fairview bag.) Osprey makes excellent backpacks for hauling around, and its lifetime warranty is renowned within the industry . The Farpoint pack also has an optional messenger bag–style strap, which offers some flexibility when you’re maneuvering tight spaces like subways or crowded city centers.

It’s simple to pack, but not as spacious as it seems. Opening the bag reveals a clamshell design; it’s deep enough to accommodate most large items, yet you won’t have to fumble awkwardly with zippers once it’s time to close up the bag. The feeling you get is not unlike when you’re packing a bit of sturdy luggage, and that’s something we love about bags like this one—especially when you use packing cubes . Osprey says this bag, when fully packed, can carry 40 liters. But after using the Farpoint bag for a few years, we’ve decided that its rounded shape seems to cut into that theoretical packable space more than other bags do. In practice, the Farpoint pack’s available space is closer to—but still less than—that of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L .

It’s the easiest bag to carry among our picks. Like all Osprey bags, the Farpoint 40 has very comfortable shoulder straps. The years of design and consideration Osprey has put into its hiking backpacks are quite evident in the Farpoint 40. After more than seven years of long-term testing this bag, we’re still surprised by how great it feels to wear when fully packed. Crucially, the straps of the Farpoint 40 stow away neatly behind a zippered panel. However, when you’re using the shoulder straps, the design forces you to also use the hip straps. Though this isn’t a huge issue, if you prefer a sleeker look or would rather have the option of using shoulder straps without hip straps, the Cotopaxi Allpa pack is more flexible, and it lets you hide the waist straps while the bag is on your back.

The Fairview 40 has the same features, in a scaled-down size. The Farpoint 40 and the Fairview 40 packs basically have the same design, but the Fairview pack is made for someone with a more-diminutive torso. It’s also slightly lighter. However, it has the features and durability of the Farpoint bag. It also has the same hip belt and adjustability. On both, the chest-strap clip is also equipped with a small security whistle that’s surprisingly loud. It’s a handy feature for anyone traveling in unfamiliar environments.

• For a smaller carry-on travel backpack, this one has little to not like. However, we do wish Osprey would trade some of the sleeker contours for a little more interior space.

Capacity: 35 liters Weight (Farpoint): 3 pounds 3 ounces Weight (Fairview): 3 pounds 2 ounces Main compartment access: front-panel loader Style: active Colors (Farpoint): green (Gopher), gray (Tunnel Vision), blue (Muted Space), black Colors (Fairview): blue (Winter Night), red (Zircon), blue (Night Jungle), black

Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L

A suitcase to carry on your back.

For dedicated single-bag travelers, this water-resistant, durable bag is easy to pack and to travel with. And it’s comfortable to wear over endless miles—as long as you don’t mind the heavier weight.

The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L maximizes packing space in a bag that’s durable, water-resistant, and customizable to fit most torso lengths (there’s also a 30L version ), with plenty of organizational features to suit any digital nomad.

It’s like a suitcase, with backpack straps. The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L is built to occupy the maximum carry-on space available. It’s a nearly perfect blend of backpack and luggage. On the outside, its tear-resistant sailcloth and sealed zippers provide ample protection from sharp objects and the elements. Opening the main clamshell zipper reveals a cavernous interior and a few organizational features that make the bag a cinch to pack. The front panel is a particular standout, great for keeping track of electronics and chargers. Of all the bags we tested, the Tortuga strikes the closest balance between the carrying comfort of a hiking backpack and the space and organization of a piece of luggage.

It’s as easy to pack as luggage. When it comes to packing, the Tortuga pack has a soothingly minimal interior, as any good suitcase should. In addition to the bag’s cavernous main pocket, its interior lid has a large vented panel. The panel is too narrow to hold additional packing cubes, but it’s great for holding light jackets or doubling as a dirty-laundry bag (if you’re really committed to one-bag travel). The Tortuga is available as a 40-liter pack (the maximum space for a carry-on bag), which we tested; there is also a 30-liter version, which is compliant with some intra-European flights. The more-diminutive version is a decent choice for weekend travel or for minimalist travelers—but for those uses, we prefer the space-saving profile and extra internal organization of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L bag.

It’s very customizable. The Tortuga pack is the most adjustable model we tested, thanks to its adjustable torso length, shoulder straps, and waist-belt system. The adjustable strap system lets you manipulate the location of the shoulder straps (video) to fit a wider variety of body sizes, in both the 30- and 40-liter versions. Of the packs we’ve tested, this one (with its included load-adjuster straps at the top, to prevent the bag’s weight from sagging toward your lumbar region) is the best at distributing its weight (4½ pounds when empty—roughly 1½ pounds more than most of our other picks, except the Peak Design ). The hip straps are removable if you need, but the shoulder straps are not stowable.

• Its straps don’t stow away. Some people, especially those who are hard on their gear, may consider not being able to remove or stow the shoulder straps (as they can with our other picks, like the Cotopaxi Allpa ) a disqualifying factor. But after years of testing, traveling with, and occasionally checking our bag, we haven’t had an issue. However, if these mysteries beneath the airport also make you nervous, you might prefer our picks with easy-to-stow straps, such as the Peak Design.
• It's heavy. We’ve also fielded complaints from some testers who said that older models of this bag were too heavy for them to carry, even with the padded hip belt and adjustable straps. The additional padding does add weight. At 4½ pounds, this latest Tortuga bag is more than half a pound lighter than it used to be—the difference is noticeable—and it weighs the same as the equally large Peak Design pack. But if you think you would struggle carrying this model, we strenuously encourage you to consider one of our more-manageable picks, like the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L.

Capacity: 40 liters Weight: 4½ pounds Main compartment access: clamshell opening Style: minimal, with a rigid construction Color: black

If you want to travel like a backpacker but also fit in at a board meeting (and you have the budget for it): Consider the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 45 . This bag’s reputation for durability, adaptability, and a low-key aesthetic make it a favorite among many dedicated one-bag travelers. And after testing it, we think it’s a great bag too. That said, for the bag to really stand out against other backpacks—and to take full advantage of its carrying adaptability—you need to buy the internal frame , the hip belt , and (if you’re traveling with a suit or jacket) the shoulder strap . On a bag that already costs $330, all of this adds up. Everything about the Tom Bihn bag (the fabric, the zippers, the quality of construction) feels like an upgrade from other bags, but it’s simply too pricey, and its design is too rarified and specific for most people. The biggest flaw, from our perspective—apart from the price—is that the Tom Bihn bag lacks a dedicated laptop pocket. In its place, the company sells laptop sleeves (a fine version if you don’t have one) that clip into the bag’s central compartment. Not everyone needs a dedicated laptop pocket, but we prefer the more secure feeling of bags that do.

If you want a budget pick (but only when it’s on sale): The eBags Mother Lode Travel Backpack (our former budget pick) is still your best budget option, if you can catch it on sale for at least half off the list price. It’s not comfortable enough for trekking long distances on foot, but there are plenty of external pockets for organization, a laptop sleeve (which holds the weight of your computer high up on your shoulders), and an easy-to-access main compartment. This pack also has the largest capacity of any bags we tested, expanding to 65 liters—well beyond any airline’s regulated 45-liter limit. However, the bag’s casual-to-basic looks might not be to everyone’s taste. In 2024, eBags raised the price of the Mother Lode to $200. We have seen it on sale for $100, and in our opinion it’s worth getting only at the sale price.

We’ve narrowed our specifications for a great bag to the following list of features, ordered from most relevant to least:

• Front- or back-panel loader or clamshell opening, for the main compartment: As with any good piece of luggage, with this type of bag, you should be able to open it and see everything you’ve packed. When you have a bag with a panel-loading or clamshell design—rather than a traditional, top-opening design—you can pack and unpack it just as you would a suitcase.

• Backpack strap comfort and design: You never know when you’ll be walking farther with your bag than you’d intended. The more comfortable and well designed the straps are, the easier traveling will be. “Ideally, you want a bag’s shoulder straps to adjust to the angle of your shoulders,” said Eytan Levy of Snarky Nomad. “Good shoulder straps are the difference between an easy trip and a hard trip.”
• Hip-belt comfort and design: A hip belt transfers heavy loads from your back and shoulders onto your hips, letting your legs—not your back—bear the brunt of the weight. Just having a waist belt is a plus, but having a padded and sculpted one—especially on bags with over 40 liters of volume—makes a world of difference.
• Material quality: Durability is critical for any type of luggage, but especially for a backpack that will be your only bag. Most bags worth considering are made of nylon, which resists abrasion more than polyester fabrics of similar density. Spending more, however, can get you exotic, light, and strong materials, such as Dyneema or sailcloth.
• Weight: Once the bags arrived, we weighed each one ourselves. Most of the bags weighed within a few pounds of one another. But unless you’re very strict with yourself, by the time you’re packed for a two-week journey, all bags are going to feel equally massive, even if one is just 2 pounds heavier than another when empty.
• Stowable straps: These are nice to have, but they aren’t absolutely necessary. “The more often you need to check a bag, the more often you need to hide away the straps,” Levy said. “But if the straps are tough enough, it doesn’t matter.”
• Accessory pocket layout and design: Some people will love an accessory pocket that has a specific space for everything; others may find that feature constricting and unadaptable. We prioritized bags with simple designs that guided our packing without constraining us.
• Style: This is purely subjective. We preferred bags that had a minimalist exterior style, but not all of our picks will please everyone. Most of the people we spoke with, however, preferred not to stick out like a tourist wearing a large, colorful backpack, if they could avoid it.

During testing, we flew across the country with these bags, took weekend trips to nearby cities, lived out of them on extended trips, and tried them locally in our daily routines. We also packed and unpacked each bag, using a standardized set of weeklong travel necessities and accessories, to see how well the internal organizational features (or lack thereof) aided or got in the way of efficient packing.

This is not a comprehensive list of all of the carry-on travel backpacks we have tested. We have removed any models that have been discontinued or that no longer meet our criteria.

The Away Outdoor Convertible Backpack 45L is a rare miss from the Away team. This bag is resoundingly average for the price. Although it’s made from excellent materials, the bag is let down by its overall design, which lacks any kind of structure or attention to comfort. There are better options.

The cheap, no-frills Cabin Max Metz bag is intriguing for the price. Any bag at this price should almost be considered disposable. That said, if you need a simple bag that costs less than a seat upgrade, this might be the way to go—unless you can pick up the eBags Motherlode bag for under $100, which we think is a better deal at that price.

The GeniusPack Travel Backpack is the only model we came across that tried to fit a suit into a travel backpack. Though some people might need that, we think those who have to travel with a suit (or clothes that require pressing) would be better off with a piece of carry-on luggage . GeniusPack now offers a second version of this bag, but our conclusion hasn’t changed.

For certain people, the GoRuck GR3 is almost worth the cost. It’s strong and simple and covered by an iron-clad repair guarantee. The removable hip belt is comfortable to wear, and it’s good at displacing the weight of a 45-liter backpack. This is a decent bag. After testing it, however, we weren’t thrilled with the internal Velcro lining for compatible Velcro packing cubes. Velcro isn’t great: It wears out, it’s difficult to keep clean, and it clings to dirt. That might seem like a small thing, but for the price, this bag should feel perfect.

The Minaal Carry-On 2.0 was designed to be a backpack for business people. But if you’re carrying it for business, you’re probably wearing at least a blazer, so you wouldn’t use a backpack in any case. If you’re a business traveler who falls more on the casual end of the business-casual spectrum, and you’re not on a budget, this is a well-thought-out pack. But we think our picks are more versatile for world travel, and they come at a better price. Minaal has since introduced a 3.0 version of this bag ; our thoughts about it remain the same.

The Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L is a slightly larger sibling of the Farpoint pack. The Sojourn Porter bag is about 2 inches longer, and it pushes right up to most airline limits. If you don’t mind possibly having to check your bag at the last minute, this would be an excellent alternative to the Farpoint pack.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Chase Reeves, Matterful.co , phone interview , October 10, 2018

Addison Ryan, moderator, r/onebag , email interview , September 8, 2018

Lindsay Lorraine Calderón, moderator, r/heronebag , phone interview , September 28, 2018

Meet your guide

Kit Dillon is a senior staff writer at Wirecutter. He was previously an app developer, oil derrick inspector, public-radio archivist, and sandwich shop owner. He has written for Popular Science, The Awl, and the New York Observer, among others. When called on, he can still make a mean sandwich.

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TripSavvy / Chloe Jeong

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

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

Final Verdict

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

• What to Look For

Why Trust TripSavvy

Best overall, cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack.

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

Super durable material

Very comfortable with multiple carry methods

Lighter and more rugged than previous models

Nothing yet

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

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

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

TripSavvy / Jhett Thompson

Best Overall, Runner-Up

Osprey fairview 40.

Quite spacious while remaining carry-on sized

Keeps belongings secure

Good padding and weight distribution

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

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

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

Best Budget

Vancropak 40l travel backpack.

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

Great for a short-to-medium-length trip

Could double as a business travel pack

Feature packed and user friendly

Lacks tech compartment

Cloth material could get dirty easily

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

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

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

Asenlin 40L Travel Backpack

Functional straps

Multiple ways to carry

Not too weighty

Our tester didn’t love the style

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

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

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

Best for Business Travel

Nomatic travel bag.

• Comfort 3 /5

Fits about a week’s worth of items

Loads of internal organization

Comes with an additional laundry bag

Uncomfortable to carry at times

Some scuff marks after tossing around

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

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

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

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

Best Multi-use

Peak design travel backpack 45l.

• Value 4.5 /5

Excellent capacity

Easy to handle

Thoughtful storage solutions

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

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

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

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

TripSavvy / Conor Ralph

Most Comfortable

Topo designs global travel bag 40l.

Topo Designs

Excellent internal organization

Many different carrying options

Great for long travel days

Could be roomier

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

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

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

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

Best Splurge

Bellroy transit backpack plus.

Flat opening made for easy packing

Comfortable to carry

Long lasting

Minimal internal organization

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

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

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

Samsonite Silhouette 17 Backpack

• Design 4 /5
• Durability 4 /5

Suitcase-like opening allows easy access

Eco-friendly materials

Suitable for long travel days

Internal organization may be overcomplicated for some

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

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

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

Best for Techies

Thule subterra backpack 34l.

Functional and looks good

Bag included for dirty laundry

Portable charger

Not the most comfortable

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

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

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

Best for Storage

Mystery ranch mission rover.

Mystery Ranch

Sturdy with grab handles around the pack

Well-designed internal storage

Different ways to carry

A bit heavy

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What to Look For in a Carry-on Backpack

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Keep all your belongings safe and organized in a lightweight backpack.

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Our top picks:

Best Overall Travel Backpack

Cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack.

Best Value Travel Backpack

Coofay travel backpack.

Most Versatile Travel Backpack

Peak design travel backpack 45l.

Best Weekender Travel Backpack

Away f.a.r convertible backpack 45l.

Best Carry-On Travel Backpack

Asenlin 40l travel backpack.

Best Travel Backpack for Backpacking

Osprey porter 46l travel pack.

Best Travel Backpack for Business Travel

Tumi alpha bravo search backpack.

Best Travel Backpack for Flying

Thule aion travel backpack.

Best Travel Backpack for Work

Samsonite silhouette 17 backpack.

Best Lightweight Travel Backpack

Osprey daylite plus daypack.

The Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab evaluates backpacks both in Lab and with consumer testers for durability and comfort. From the best laptop backpacks and backpacks for college students to the best duffels and daypacks , we've seen it all. To find the best travel backpacks, we test everything from tear strength to strap strength and abrasion resistance to make sure the bag can stand up to rough handling for years to come. We also work with consumer testers who try them out on various trips under real-world conditions. We also consider the amount of padding in the straps, useful extras and overall weight to find the most comfortable backpacks.

Our picks are top performers from testing along with new styles that have exciting features and rave reviews. Check out our top travel backpack picks below and keep reading to learn all of our ultimate backpack shopping tips to find the best pack for you. Pair your new travel backpack with packing cubes and a hard-side suitcase for your next vacation.

We were shocked by just how much we could fit inside this travel backpack during our packing tests. In fact, it outperformed multiple carry-on suitcases for its generous capacity and well-designed interior. Similar to hard-side luggage, the bag completely unzips for easy packing and, in this case, features helpful mesh to help separate compartments.

On top of that, we liked the helpful ergonomic features, from the padding along the back to the hip strap and sternum strap, which offer comfort and support. Plus, when testing the laptop sleeve, we found there was room to spare after placing a 16-inch laptop in it. The only note of caution is that the bag doesn't have a luggage sleeve, so if you're hoping to stack it on top of rolling luggage, it may not be the right fit.

When we surveyed our own editors and staff for their favorite bags, this one from Coofay was a hit for its organizational pockets and personal-item-friendly size. One staffer told us, "This backpack can definitely fit a week of clothing if rolled properly."

Like many popular travel backpacks, this one unzips like a suitcase for easy packing and has tons of small compartments to help keep your belongings in order. We particularly appreciate the compression straps on the side, allowing you to pack more while keeping the bag within the personal item size limit of most domestic airlines. Plus, there's a wide range of colors to choose from.

Designed with intention, Peak Design's travel backpack is truly a standout within the industry. While it's hard to find a travel bag that can tackle all sorts of trips, this one manages to do just that . It's truly one-of-a-kind and allows you to access your belongings from the front (like a suitcase), the back (like a top-loading traditional backpack) and the sides.

Compression features allow you to easily convert it from a 30L capacity to a 35L or 45L bag for all your travel needs. The backpack straps can be hidden away to keep it streamlined while using the simple luggage sleeve. The only challenge comes with packing: While the interior is spacious, there aren't too many separate compartments, so if that's important to you, the brand offers a selection of compatible packing cubes , including protective ones for camera equipment.

With a massive 45L interior, this bag from Away can hold everything you need for a weekend away, including multiple outfits, toiletries and even an extra pair of shoes. It's the go-to travel backpack for GH's Home & Apparel Reviews Analyst Amanda Constantine , who's brought it on everything from short weekend getaways to longer trips abroad.

Constantine notes, "The straps are comfortable and feel sturdy, and I love that the backpack straps can be tucked away if I'm carrying the bag like a suitcase instead of on my back." In addition, this pack also has all the top-notch organizational features you'd expect from Away, from compression straps to convenient mesh pockets. The caveat? The zippers are a little too easy to open and sometimes have a tendency to come undone.

This backpack includes the ultimate organizational system: Three packing cubes , a laptop case, a water bottle/umbrella pocket and a small front pocket. The packing cubes are ideal to keep your clothes compact and wrinkle-free while traveling. We also love the padded straps and side buckles to make sure everything stays in place.

It has a clamshell opening and both sides lie down flat, which makes this backpack easier to pack and organize as you don't have to stuff items in from the top. This pick is ideal as a carry-on for international travel as you can easily pack your clothes and what you'll need on the flight.

Finding a good backpacking bag can be a challenge. You'll want a bag that's spacious and supportive enough that it won't cause injury. Luckily, Osprey is known for its ergonomically designed packs, making it a favorite brand amongst some hiking enthusiasts at GH. One GH analyst has even taken the brand's bags on a two-week backpacking trip to Thailand, calling them comfortable and well-designed.

This model comes with a generous 46L capacity and helpful compression straps, both on the exterior and interior, allowing you to bring everything you'll need and then some. Additionally, this bag features the brand's helpful chest and hip straps for support, along with helpful pockets throughout. Take note, however, that it comes in a unisex style, so users accustomed to women-specific packs may find the shoulder straps stiff.

Carrying a TUMI backpack is a status symbol no matter where you are — the brand is known for its luxury travel products worldwide, particularly for its long-lasting quality and service . Buying a travel product (e.g. a bag or luggage) from the brand typically comes with a five-year warranty and free repairs plus a lifetime registration and tracking service for finding lost bags. Even after five years, you can ask the brand to repair your bag for a small cost.

TUMI's Search Backpack is sleek enough for conferences and work trips, making it great for business travel or everyday use. One GH analyst has used this bag for over 10 years, throughout school and work and on multiple domestic and international flights. While the top-loading configuration isn't as seamless for packing, testers were still impressed by how "surprisingly spacious" and "high quality" it felt.

Having the right backpack can make all the difference when going through airport security. This one from Thule, one of our favorite luggage brands, comes equipped with helpful features like a small easy-to-reach pocket for your passport and boarding pass plus a convenient laptop compartment . Within the bag, there's a helpful divider for organization along with other mesh pockets and panels.

The bag also comes in two sizes — 28L and 40L — each of which makes the perfect personal item or carry-on respectively. And if 28L sounds a bit too small, this size expands to 32L to accommodate more essentials. The only caveat is that the 40L version doesn't come with any hip straps, which is rare for a backpack of its size. The brand suggests pairing the bag with the Aion Sling , which slots in easily for support.

Ideal when traveling for business or even everyday commuting to work, the Silhouette 17 backpack has all the essentials and then some. In fact, it's designed to replace your carry-on, which can slow you down when on a last-minute business trip. Moreover, Samsonite's soft-side luggage has proven be abrasion-resistant and strong in our tests , staying in great shape, so we are confident in the durability of the brand's similar products.

Beyond the durable nature, it opens up like a hardshell suitcase, complete with functional sections, and has a padded laptop sleeve for easy access. Plus, it easily convert from a backpack to a briefcase or shoulder bag. For longer trips, you can even slide it onto checked luggage instead of maneuvering two suitcases through the airport.

Often used on day hikes for its lightweight design, a daypack can be a great option for those in search of a not-so-heavy travel backpack. And when it comes to the best daypacks , Osprey reigns supreme as the top-performing brand, earning especially high scores for their amazing ease-of-use features and fitting everything in our packing test .

Recent testers have loved that Osprey bags have "lots of compartments" and "comfortable cushioned shoulder straps." Some even highlighted the helpful sternum strap, which keeps the weight evenly distributed, preventing shoulder pain. You can also expect an interior sleeve to fit a laptop or tablet or a hydration reservoir for hikes, plus a slew of pockets in the front including two mesh water bottle pockets.

Herschel Kaslo Backpack Tech

When we tested this laptop backpack , we were surprised by how lightweight yet protective it felt. The detail and care are evident throughout: The bag has reinforced stitching in areas where you'd expect extra tugging like the top handle, straps and luggage sleeve. There's also a separate laptop compartment with a fleece lining to help minimize potential scratches.

One Textiles Lab analyst swears by this bag, using it as both her everyday bag for commuting as well as her go-to travel backpack, especially on business trips when she'll need her laptop handy. In our packing test, we found the 30L capacity large enough to fit a 16-inch laptop plus three to four days of clothes and toiletries. If that’s not the right size for you, it also comes in a 20L capacity for those with more petite frames.

patagonia Patagonia Black Hole Pack - 25 L

Whether you're backpacking through a new country or flying to a nearby city, this Patagonia pack is up for the adventure. It's made with polyester that has a durable water-repellent finish to keep all your belongings protected. One tester shared that this bag is the "backpack to end all backpacks" because it's great for all types of vacations and features a sternum strap you can easily adjust to suit your height.

While the 25L capacity may look small, the bag lives up to its "Black Hole" name, fitting much more than you'd expect, especially when you roll your clothes up , or you can opt for the 32L style . Plus, in Lab tests, water rolled right off the main fabric of the bag with ease, so you can rest assured it'll protect your belongings even in unpredictable weather.

Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Backpack

No one wants an uncomfortable backpack, which is why we loved this bag from Dagne Dover. It's made of neoprene fabric, which feels soft and squishy instead of stiff like some other bags. The brand also does not skimp when it comes to details like an interior pocket to hold a water bottle or cell phone and a pouch that can be attached on a leash inside the main compartment to find small stuff quickly.

The main compartment has a laptop sleeve and is large enough for a weekend trip. Plus, it even has a sleek luggage sleeve, slipping easily onto a carry-on suitcase at the airport. Take note: We found that if you’re rough with the bag, the neoprene fabric may pill (though pills can easily be removed with a fabric shaver ). This pick comes in small and medium sizes too.

How we test travel backpacks

The Good Housekeeping Institute has been testing travel products and backpacks for decades.

Grace Wu (she/her) is a product reviews analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she evaluates fabric-based products using specialized equipment and consumer tester data. Prior to starting at Good Housekeeping in 2022, she earned a master of engineering in materials science and engineering and a bachelor of science in fiber science from Cornell University. While earning her degrees, Grace worked in research laboratories for smart textiles and nanotechnology and held internships at Open Style Lab and Rent the Runway.

Emma Seymour (she/her) is a senior product analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she has led testing for luggage, pillows, towels, tampons and more since 2018. She graduated from Cornell University with a bachelor of science in fiber science and apparel design and a minor in gerontology, completing research in the Body Scanner Lab on optimizing activewear for athletic performance. 

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Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

From short weekend getaways to far-off international adventures, our top travel packs make it easy and comfortable to organize and carry the essentials.

Switchback Travel ( Brian McCurdy )

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Whether you’re traveling across the globe or headed out on a quick weekend getaway, a thoughtfully designed travel pack can help you stay comfortable and organized while on the move. Key considerations include carry-on compatibility for air travel, enough capacity to stash your belongings, pack weight, and preferences on storage and organizational layouts. Below we break down the best travel backpacks of 2024, ranging from minimalist options for a couple nights away to larger bags with removable daypacks for extended trips. For more background information, see our detailed comparison table and buying advice below the picks.

Editor’s note: We updated our travel backpacks guide on March 29, 2024, to add The North Face Base Camp, which is a fully featured option at a competitive price, along with swapping the Patagonia Black Hole MLC from the 45-liter capacity to the 30-liter version due to its more manageable shape and size.  

Our Team's Top Travel Backpack Picks

• Best Overall Travel Backpack: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L
• A Close Second (That's Great for Carrying Electronics): Peak Design Travel Backpack
• Excellent Carrying Comfort for Gear-Intensive Trips: Osprey Sojourn Porter 46 L
• Best for Staying Organized: Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L
• Best Budget Travel Backpack: Amazon Basics Carry-On Travel Backpack
• Best High-Capacity Travel Pack for Long Trips: Osprey Farpoint 70

Best Overall Travel Backpack

1. cotopaxi allpa 35l ($200).

When compiling our list of the best travel packs, we prioritized functional organization, easy on-the-go access, durable materials, and carry-on compatibility. Cotopaxi’s Allpa 35L Travel Pack checks all those boxes emphatically, earning it our top spot for 2024. Along with the vibrant styling and multi-colored patterning that the brand is known for, the Allpa is exceptionally durable with a mix of 1,000-denier, TPU-coated polyester and panels of 840-denier ballistic nylon. In use, we found the Allpa to be remarkably tough and highly water-resistant, and the pack also comes with a stowable rain cover for truly inclement weather. We also love the dual access to the main compartment, including a full wraparound zipper and secondary side zip next to the backpanel for easily retrieving items while on the move. And the electronics sleeve is big enough to handle both a laptop and tablet at the same time, which isn’t often the case. Overall, the Allpa is well made, stylish, and very nicely appointed for travel.

What’s not to like with the Cotopaxi Allpa? While the 35-liter variation here is nicely sized for long weekend trips or shorter getaways abroad, it’s smaller than competitors like the Peak Design Travel Backpack, Osprey Sojourn Porter 46, and many other carry-on-friendly designs below (Cotopaxi does sell a larger 42L version for $220 that still meets most airline requirements). Further, while overall carrying comfort is good, there are no load-lifter straps to bring the pack closer to your body. Additionally, the interior pockets are a little awkwardly sized, and the lack of external compression straps makes it hard to secure bulkier loads. A final omission is water bottle storage, although it’s not a critical feature for most and does little to dampen our enthusiasm for an otherwise well-rounded and great-looking bag. And for those looking to check their luggage, the Allpa roller bags are equally tough and user-friendly. See the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

A Close Second (That's Great for Carrying Electronics)

2. peak design travel backpack ($300).

Peak Design’s Travel Backpack may look relatively unassuming on the outside, but don’t be fooled: This bag is packed with thoughtful travel-ready features. First is the expandable design, which allows you to alternate between 35 and 45 liters by simply zipping or unzipping the frontmost zipper. Access is another highlight, including entry points at the top, side, front, and rear for easily retrieving items pretty much anywhere in the pack. Storage is also excellent with padded laptop and tablet sleeves, a divisible main compartment, large and stretchy dual side pockets (not common on travel packs), and multiple interior pockets. And it’s all wrapped up in a thick nylon canvas shell that’s durable, streamlined, and very modern.

What complaints do we have about the Peak Design Travel Backpack? Price is the most glaring downside: At $300, it’s one of the most expensive designs on our list. And while the bag is undeniably sleek, it’s pretty utilitarian-looking and less everyday-friendly than more vibrant options like the Cotopaxi Allpa above and Topo Designs Global Travel Bag below. It’s also on the heavy end at 4 pounds 8 ounces, which isn’t unreasonable but does add considerable heft compared to many competitors. Finally, the Travel Backpack is technically not carry-on compliant when expanded, measuring 22 x 13 x 11 inches (the standard U.S. domestic carry-on limit is 22 x 14 x 9 in.). But it works at the compressed 35-liter size (or smaller 30L option) , and photographers in particular will love the shape, which nicely accommodates multiple camera cubes, lenses, and other accessories. If you fall into that group, another staff favorite is Wandrd's Prvke , which features a more modular design with specialized add-ons for camera gear. See the Peak Design Travel Backpack

Excellent Carrying Comfort for Gear-Intensive Trips

3. osprey sojourn porter 46 l ($195).

Osprey is a leader in the backpacking pack market, and much of that technology and expertise has trickled down nicely into their travel pack collection. The Sojourn Porter 46 L is case in point, combining the impressive carrying comfort that the brand is known for with a practical, carry-on-friendly build and feature set for travel. Starting at the outside, you get a rigid foam backpanel with well-cushioned shoulder and hipbelt straps that feel reminiscent of Osprey’s backpacking designs, a handy compression system to effectively cinch things down, lockable zippers for the main compartment, and a beefy side handle for hauling the pack duffel-style. The inside is a similar story with ample pockets of varying sizes, compressions traps to keep clothes tidy, and padded sidewalls to help protect valuables during travel.

Despite offering 11 more liters of capacity than our top-ranked Cotopaxi Allpa 35L (for $5 less), the Sojourn Porter 46 L is still carry-on compliant, making it the largest option here that still meets most domestic and international airline restrictions. It’s also impressively sturdy and durable and includes reinforced cord loops to attach to Osprey's Daylite or Farpoint/Fairview daypacks (sold separately). We do wish Osprey offered the design in a women’s version for those with smaller torso and waist measurements, but the unisex sizing is standard in the travel market (their Farpoint/Fairview below is one of the few models to come in a separate women’s version). In the end, if it fits you well, the Sojourn Porter offers a hard-to-beat mix of capacity, features, and comfort for the price, making it our favorite option for longer, gear-intensive adventures. See the Osprey Sojourn Porter 46 L

Best Travel Pack for Staying Organized

4. topo designs global travel bag 30l ($199).

Topo Designs flies a little under the radar compared to well-known brands like Cotopaxi and Osprey, but don’t let that deter you—this company makes exceptionally built and good-looking packs for everything from commuting and travel to more technical pursuits like biking and climbing. Their Global Travel Bag 30L here is a shining example and stands out in one major way: internal organization. Put simply, there’s no shortage of options for divvying up your belongings, from the vertical daisy chain webbing on the front to the expandable side water bottle pockets, ample zippered storage inside and out, a laptop sleeve along the backpanel, and several interior mesh pockets. Like the Cotopaxi Allpa above, the Global Travel Bag is also well equipped for rough use, including a mix of 1,000- and 1,680-denier ballistic nylon that gives the pack a noticeably burly, confidence-inspiring feel—at a very manageable 2 pounds 10 ounces to boot.

That said, the extensive feature set does add some complexity when it comes to organization. We like the big clamshell opening to the main compartment, but we had to reorganize to make everything fit into the various compartments (they're optimized for Topo Designs' Pack Bags , which are smaller than our standard packing cubes). The tall and slim shape is also best suited for clothing rather than bulky gear, which may be limiting for outdoor adventures that involve camping or backpacking. We also wished there were a little more padding along the shoulder straps and hipbelt while walking through airports with the pack stuffed full, but it distributed the load pretty well (and the hipbelt can be tucked away when not in use). In the end, no pack is perfect, but the Global Travel Bag 30L is a well-built, durable, and stylish option for overnights, short weekend getaways, and even minimalist adventures abroad. It’s also sold in a larger 40-liter variation for longer trips, although we found the smaller pack to be much more manageable. See the Topo Designs Travel Bag 30L

Best Budget Travel Backpack

5. amazon basics carry-on travel backpack ($46).

Travel packs are an expensive bunch, but Amazon makes an affordable but still surprisingly capable option in their Carry-On Travel Backpack. We’ll start with the good news: As its name implies, the bag is carry-on compliant, and it comes with most of the standard features we look for in a practical travel pack. These include a zippered laptop sleeve, internal and external compression straps, easy-access pockets for travel documents, and good organization in the main compartment. Like the Peak Design Travel Backpack above, the Amazon Basics can also be expanded to boost packing space while still meeting carry-on restrictions. And at just around $50 at the time of publishing (colorways vary on Amazon), the 40-liter Carry-On Travel Backpack is a great value for what you get, undercutting most similarly sized models on this list by $100 or more.

Now for the bad news: This Amazon Basics pack is far less capable than many of the picks here for shuttling a full load. The shoulder straps are lightly padded, while the hipbelt is a thin and basic webbing design that won’t feel comfortable under the weight of a full pack. The rest of the design has a cheaper feel, too, including a shiny and dated-looking exterior, a lot of plastic (read: breakable) components, and standard, non-lockable zippers. You don’t get dedicated water bottle storage either, which isn’t a necessary feature but certainly is nice to have. But if you’re an occasional traveler and aren’t yet ready to make a more sizable investment, the Amazon Basics pack is a perfectly serviceable entry-level option at a great price. For another capable budget design that comes with packing cubes and lots of colorway options, we also like Asenlin’s 40L Travel Backpack . See the Amazon Basics Carry-On Travel Backpack

Best High-Capacity Travel Pack for Long Trips

6. osprey farpoint 70 ($230).

The packs above are great for vacationers and travelers headed out for a week or two, but those embarking on longer and/or gear-heavy trips abroad will almost certainly need more storage and capacity. Enter Osprey’s Farpoint 70, which comes with a 15-liter daypack that can be attached to the front to maximize capacity or used separately for around-town adventures once you reach your destination (Note: The travel pack itself is 55L). Importantly, both come well appointed: The daypack boasts a dedicated tablet/hydration sleeve and water bottle pockets, while the main pack has great cushioning along the straps and backpanel (it’s an Osprey, after all), a well-ventilated backpanel, easy access via the large front panel, and an adjustable torso system for dialing in a good fit. It's all wrapped up in a thoughtful and sustainable package, including recycled and bluesign-approved fabrics, along with a dedicated women's version called the Fairview.

All that said, there’s one glaring downside to opting for a larger-capacity design like the Osprey Farpoint 70: It doesn’t meet most carry-on size requirements. For reference, the standard domestic carry-on limit within the U.S. is 22 x 14 x 9 inches, while the Farpoint measures 25.6 x 15 x 12.6. Another complaint is that the daypack obscures the pack’s main compartment when attached, making it tedious to access your belongings. Even so, you’d be hard-pressed to find a more versatile and comfortable system for less (the daypack is a $65 investment on its own), making the Farpoint 70 our favorite high-capacity pick of the year. It’s also available in a larger 80-liter version, as well as smaller 40- and 55-liter capacities, although only the Farpoint 55 and 70 include the detachable daypack.  See the Osprey Farpoint 70   See the Women's Osprey Fairview 70

Best of the Rest

7. eagle creek tour 40l ($159).

Eagle Creek first started making packs in the mid 1970s, and their Tour 40L travel pack reflects that longstanding history in the market. From the get-go, we were immediately impressed by its highly practical design. The bag has great exterior storage, including a stretchy side water bottle pocket and expansion zipper for 5 liters of additional capacity in the main compartment. Additionally, the book-style opening provides quick access to the contents of the bag, and interior and exterior compression straps make it easy to snug things down. We also appreciate that it comes in two torso sizes (S/M and M/L) for maximizing fit, which is uncommon in the travel pack market and a really nice plus at this price point. And the cherry on top: The Tour checks in at a very competitive 2 pounds 10 ounces, which is tied with Topo Designs’ 10-liter-smaller Global Travel Bag above as the lightest on our list.

Other notable features on the Eagle Creek Tour 40L include side and top grab handles for easy loading and carrying, an integrated rain cover that stows away at the bottom and doubles as a backpanel cover if you check the bag, puncture-resistant and lockable zippers that are easy to operate even with gloves, and good overall carrying comfort. It’s not the toughest design out there—the water bottle pocket started to fray on our pack after just one trip—but uses durable 600-denier polyester elsewhere and is reasonably hardwearing overall. Final nitpicks include no pass-through sleeve for securing to a suitcase and a fairly bland exterior, but those do little to detract from the Tour’s otherwise well-rounded build.  See the Eagle Creek Tour 40L

8. Gregory Border Carry-On 40 ($190)

Like Osprey, Gregory is a leader in the hiking and backpacking markets, and their Border Carry-On 40 retains many of their well-loved technical features in a travel-friendly design. The big news here is the pack’s split-case design, which creates two distinct areas within the main compartment accessed via one large, clamshell-style opening. On one side, a zippered mesh panel with added zippered storage and compression straps keeps your clothing and some accessories organized, while an odor-resistant “ActiveShield” compartment at the opposite side effectively separates dirty clothes. As expected from Gregory, carrying comfort is also great with good adjustability at the sternum, a well-cushioned backpanel, and thick straps. You don’t get load lifters for bringing the pack closer to your body, but we didn’t have any issues, even when running through the Montreal airport to a connecting flight en route to Patagonia.

That said, the Gregory Border Carry-On’s split-case design does have a noteworthy pitfall: With both compartments zipped, storage feels pretty limited. Unzipping the larger mesh panel does help maximize space (especially when stuffing the pack to the brim), but it also defeats the purpose of the dual compartments. Compared to the competition, the Border also uses thinner materials than Osprey’s Sojourn Porter and Farpoint offerings, although the rest of the feature set stacks up similarly. In the end, it’s another comfortable and well-built travel pack, and the split-case design has its merits for those who pack light. See the Gregory Border Carry-On 40

9. Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L ($350)

Travel packs are a dime a dozen in 2024, but Tortuga’s Travel Backpack 40L—which replaced their Outbreaker 35L—stands out as one of the most well-appointed and thoughtfully built options on the market. Organization is a clear highlight, including a large front pocket with several sleeves for divvying up small valuables and documents, a convenient clamshell-style opening with zippered compartments for separating clothes and shoes, and padded laptop and tablet sleeves with zippered mesh pockets at the other side for storing cords and accessories. Rounding out the feature set are easy-to-access water bottle pockets that can fit most standard-mouth bottles (our wide-mouth Hydro Flask was too big), zippered hipbelt storage that can accommodate a smartphone and passport, and lockable, water-resistant zippers. Finally, the design is well padded with thick cushioning along the backpanel, shoulder straps, and hipbelt, which is fairly uncommon among travel-specific brands. 

It's worth noting that the Tortuga Travel Backpack has a slightly more streamlined storage layout than its predecessor, although you do get an additional 5 liters of capacity and a bump in usable space. However, the Tortuga is no featherweight at 4 pounds 8 ounces, which is a notable downside for long treks through the airport and around town. It’s also tied with Matador’s GlobeRider below as the priciest on our list at a steep $350. On the bright side, Tortuga does offer a lifetime warranty against defects, and they will repair/replace the pack or refund your money if a replacement isn't available. All told, it’s a nice dose of added assurance and helps justify the steep price, but the hefty build and lack of value push the Tortuga slightly down in our rankings. For another well-executed design with all the requisite travel features, check out Aer’s Travel Pack 3 , which is cheaper at $249 but 5 liters smaller and doesn’t include a hipbelt with purchase. See the Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L

10. Yeti Crossroads 35L Backpack ($250)

Yeti's coolers and insulated drinkware are their bread and butter, but the focus on premium craftsmanship doesn’t end there. On the travel side, their Crossroads 35L Backpack is exactly what we’ve come to expect from the brand: excellent durability and functionality in a modern package. The body of the pack is made with Yeti's tough and confidence-inspiring TuffSkin nylon (which was inspired by motorcycle gear), while the PU-coated base adds a nice dose of assurance when setting it down. All of the other components have an equally durable and supportive feel, from the foam-heavy shoulder straps to the thick, protective backpanel. It’s all wrapped up in a sleek and streamlined design that’s offered in a nice selection of colorways, from bright Harvest Red to subdued Alpine Brown (shown in the photo here).

Yeti clearly put a lot of thought into the outside of the Crossroads, but the interior is well executed, too. The clamshell opening folds back to reveal a pocket-equipped mesh panel and generous main compartment that still can be accessed when wearing the pack. You also get dedicated storage for a water bottle and laptop, as well as a pass-through sleeve for securing to a roller bag. Our biggest gripe is the lack of padding: The detachable hipbelt is made of thin webbing and doesn’t offer much support, and the shoulder straps and backpanel have a noticeably thick and rigid feel, which is great for durability but detracts from overall comfort. And as with most Yeti products, the pack isn’t particularly cheap or light at $250 and nearly 4 pounds. Finally, the 35-liter Crossroads is on the smaller side and will require precise packing to fit more than about three to five days’ worth of belongings. But again, build quality is top-notch, and minimalists used to packing light may not mind the small sacrifices in comfort and storage. See the Yeti Crossroads 35L Backpack

11. Matador GlobeRider45 ($350)

Matador may lack the name recognition of brands like Osprey and Cotopaxi, but don’t let that fool you: This Boulder-based upstart is quickly growing thanks to their outside-the-box thinking. From their travel collection, the new GlobeRider45 stands out as a very intentionally built design that spares no expense in terms of features. In addition to being on the larger end, the carry-on-compliant GlobeRider offers solid comfort and support with good padding along the straps and backpanel, a light but sturdy aluminum frame stay, and a well-executed suspension system that’s reminiscent of a backpacking pack. Organization also abounds with a large external stash pocket, thoughtfully designed electronics pockets, vertical daisy chain webbing, and a practical interior layout that includes a packing cube-like space on one side and open clothing storage on the other. All told, it's an intriguing new pack that does a great job merging the utility of both backpacking and travel designs.

It's worth noting that we previously had Matador’s cheaper and lighter Seg45 ranked here, which boasts a unique segmented design that allows you to customize organization by day or activity. When unzipped, the five compartments at the front of the pack reveal independent (and stowable) storage cube-like areas for clothes and other soft items, while the main compartment below provides added space for dirty clothes, shoes, and other bulkier gear. While innovative, however, the Seg45 falls well short of the GlobeRider in carrying comfort, which is largely a result of the thin webbing hipbelt and lack of frame. The pocket-heavy exterior also made it hard for us to remember where we put certain items and detracts from the amount of usable space inside the main compartment. Both packs are arguably overbuilt for infrequent travelers, but the GlobeRider stands out as the more balanced option for those willing to splurge. See the Matador GlobeRider45

12. The North Face Base Camp Travel Pack ($169)

The North Face’s expedition-ready Base Camp duffels have long been popular among serious adventurers, and the Base Camp Travel Pack is a logical and carry-on-friendly addition to the collection. We found a lot to like about the pack during testing, including its burly and abrasion-resistant exterior and myriad storage options. We particularly enjoyed the Base Camp’s front pocket layout, which makes it easy to divvy up travel documents and electronics with a variety of mesh, zippered, and fleece-lined pockets. The smaller details are equally well sorted, from the well-padded shoulder straps and backpanel to the fleece-lined laptop sleeve and generous daisy chain system for attaching gear externally. Finally, despite being a little smaller than many of our top picks, the 35-liter Base Camp includes water bottle pockets that easily swallowed our 24-ounce Hydro Flask.

However, despite checking all the boxes for most travelers, the Base Camp starts to look a little less competitive when stacked up against options like the Eagle Creek Tour above. For $10 less, the Tour boasts an additional 5 liters of capacity and includes helpful additions like a hipbelt, load-lifter straps, and a rain cover—all for around a pound less. Another alternative worth considering is REI’s Ruckpack 40 , which costs the same as the Base Camp and is more capable of crossing over for hiking: The laptop sleeve can fit a 3-liter reservoir, there are attachment points for trekking poles, and the suspension system is more in line with standard daypacks. Depending on your needs, the Ruckpack might be the better option, but the Base Camp offers better organization for travel in a more modern-looking package than the Eagle Creek. A final note: Those with broader builds may experience discomfort where the shoulder straps meet the backpanel, but our narrow-framed female tester had no comfort-related issues. See the TNF Base Camp Travel Pack

13. Thule Aion Travel Pack ($200)

Swedish brand Thule is best known for their bike and roof racks, but they make sneaky-good packs, too. Our favorite in their collection this year is the 40-liter Aion, which combines the premium build quality that Thule is known for with a nice assortment of travel-ready features. One unique—but very functional—addition is the removable TPU rolltop bag for stashing dirty laundry, which prevents odors and dirt from making their way to the rest of your belongings. The rest of the design is nicely appointed, including dedicated water bottle storage, an easy-to-access clamshell opening, plenty of zippered spaces for electronics and valuables (including a padded laptop/tablet sleeve), internal compressions straps to keep items secure and tidy, lockable zippers, and carry-on-compliant dimensions. 

What pushes the Thule Aion down to a mid-pack finish? At this price point and capacity, we’re surprised to see that the bag doesn’t come with a hipbelt. You can purchase Thule’s compatible Aion sling bag separately, which can pull double-duty for around-town use, but it’s a fairly expensive addition at $50 (and a feature we consider critical for a pack of this size). To be fair, the rest of the build is very well executed, including a noticeably thick and robust 600-denier waxed canvas shell and PFC-free DWR coating for fending off moisture. If you don’t mind the added investment for the waist belt/sling bag, it’s a promising design with competitive specs to match. Of note, if you’re looking for something a little different for travel, the Aion collection also includes a roller bag and a 35-liter duffel . See the Thule Aion Travel Pack

14. Pacsafe EXP45 ($290)

Travel can be an exhausting endeavor, especially if you’re constantly worried about your luggage or valuables getting stolen. That’s why anti-theft designs like Pacsafe’s EXP45 are becoming increasingly common, particularly for international trips. Like most of Pacsafe’s offerings, the EXP45 is packed with protective features, from cut-resistant materials to lockable and puncture-resistant double zippers and built-in stainless steel cable locks. Importantly, these are nicely integrated and don’t detract too heavily from the Pacsafe's functionality as a travel pack—it’s still well organized with ample interior and exterior pockets and compression straps, offers multiple carry options, and is carry-on compliant.

That said, the Pacsafe EXP45 is a pretty niche design that prioritizes safety over carrying comfort and access. The pack is on the heavier end at over 4 pounds due to all the protective features, the padding along the shoulder straps and hipbelt is firm (albeit decently thick), and there are no load-lifter straps to pull the pack closer to your body. Another downside is that the laptop sleeve is positioned at the front of the bag—we prefer when heavier items are situated close to the back for better weight distribution—and accessing items here can be difficult due to the half-length zipper design (we wish it had a clamshell opening like the main compartment). In other words, comfort- and convenience-focused travelers will likely want to look elsewhere, but the Pacsafe has its place for those who prioritize safety and security. For a cheaper and lighter option that doesn’t skimp on safety features, we also like Pacsafe’s Go 44L , although frequent travelers will likely prefer the more premium EXP45. See the Pacsafe EXP45

15. Patagonia Black Hole Mini MLC 30L ($199)

Patagonia’s Black Hole is legendary in the world of duffel bags, and the Mini MLC 30L travel pack variation shares that bag’s excellent durability and good looks in a more organized and carry-on-friendly design. Like the duffels, the Black Hole pack is made of strong (and recycled) polyester ripstop that’s highly tear-resistant with a TPU film on the exterior for fending off precipitation. It also boasts the signature daisy chain webbing along one side for securing extra gear. Importantly, however, the travel focus is clear: You get three carrying options (backpack, over-the-shoulder, or briefcase-style), compatibility with a roller bag, and a generously sized opening with two separate chambers for customizing organization.

Why do we rank the Patagonia Black Hole Mini MLC 30L here? The most glaring downside is its 30-liter capacity, which is undersized for trips lasting longer than a few days (unless you’re a staunch minimalist). Patagonia does offer a larger 45-liter variation for $40 more, although we found it to be lacking in structure, which caused the pack to feel noticeably bulky and cumbersome when stuffed full. Thankfully, both options feature the same well-executed backpanel design that we love, which comprises sleeves at one side for a laptop and tablet with zippered and drop-in pockets at the other for divvying up cords and accessories. Again, the Mini version is underbuilt for extended trips abroad but remains an excellent pick for commutes, daily use, and as a secondary bag for travel. See the Patagonia Black Hole Mini MLC 30L

16. Nomatic Travel Bag 40L ($290)

Many of the picks above are built by reputable backpacking manufacturers, but Nomatic is a travel company first. Their Travel Bag 40L embodies that focus, combining thoughtful organization and storage with easy access in a sleek and minimalist package. Feature highlights include a customizable strap design that allows you to easily alternate between backpack and duffel carry, dedicated compartments for shoes and clothing at the top and bottom of the bag, and even a mesh laundry bag to keep dirty clothes separate during travel. We also love the exterior pocket at the right side, which opens wide for easy access and features an array of mesh, fleece-lined, and zippered spots to organize electronics and cords, along with an RFID pocket for passports and other scannable documents. All told, it’s clear that Nomatic put a ton of thought into the design. 

It’s worth noting that Nomatic offers another intriguing option in their Navigator , although we consider the Travel Bag the more competitive all-around design. In parsing out the differences, the Travel Bag costs $110 less and is lighter by nearly 2 pounds, although it forgoes the Navigator’s expandable main compartment that allows you to alternate between 32 and 41 liters depending on your storage needs. The Navigator also includes load lifter straps and a sculpted foam backpanel for a boost in carrying comfort, but the Travel Bag is no slouch. And from a features perspective, we appreciate the Travel Bag’s dirty shoe compartment and included laundry bag. Those with smaller frames may have trouble dialing in a secure fit—our female tester (5’6” and 135 lb.) maxed out the Travel Bag’s hipbelt, for example—but the intentional organization layout and travel-ready feature set are undeniable selling points. See the Nomatic Travel Bag 40L

17. Mystery Ranch Mission Rover 45 ($249)

Along with Osprey’s Sojourn Porter 46 above, Mystery Ranch’s Mission Rover 45 is a great option for those of us who aren’t particularly adept at packing light. Touted as a “workhorse gear hauler,” the Mission Rover offers three functional carry options (as a suitcase, shoulder bag, or standard backpack), has a well-organized main compartment with zippered dividers and a wraparound clamshell opening, and even includes separate areas for shoes and dirty laundry. As expected at this price point, you also get most of the standard travel-ready features that we look for, including a stowable hipbelt, lockable zippers, a sleeve to secure to a rolling suitcase, and a padded laptop space that can accommodate computers up to 15 inches wide. Finally, like many of Mystery Ranch's backpacking offerings, the Mission Rover has a premium feel with a thick nylon exterior and water-resistant YKK zippers.

However, as with the Pacsafe EXP45 above, the Mission Rover’s laptop sleeve is situated at the front of the pack, which detracts from carrying comfort and convenience. The Mystery Ranch is also on the heavier and pricier end of the spectrum at 4 pounds 4.8 ounces and $249, although the 45-liter capacity is undeniably generous (and the pack is still compliant with most carry-on size restrictions). Finally, the bag is relatively dated-looking and lacking in modern appeal compared to offerings from Topo Designs, Peak Design, Cotopaxi, and others above. In other words, the Mission Rover doesn’t stand out in any one area (hence our ranking), but it’s another durable travel pack with a nicely executed feature set. See the Mystery Ranch Mission Rover 45

Travel Backpack Comparison Table

Editor's note: "Carry-on" refers to whether or not each pack meets standard domestic and international air travel restrictions, which must be under 22 x 14 x 9 inches or 45 linear inches when adding L+W+H.

About Our Testing Process

True to our name, globetrotting is a big part of what we do at Switchback Travel. Managing editor Sarah Nelson put together our initial list of 16 picks in 2022 after a trip to El Chaltén in southern Argentina with fellow staff members and gear testers. From takeoff to our return flights home, we put our packs through their paces by stuffing them to the brim with two weeks’ worth of clothing and gear, schlepping them through domestic and international airports, shoving them into overhead compartments and below our seats, and getting intimately familiar with organizational layouts for divvying up our documents and electronics. Upon our return, we also evaluated each pack closely for signs of wear like tears and stains.

Our current list of 17 picks reflects our own experiences as well as feedback from our freelancers, travel-savvy friends, and the online travel community. We continue to test travel packs on adventures near and far, adding and removing designs as the market shifts and as we get firsthand experience with more options. For example, on a recent trip to Chilean Patagonia in February 2024, we brought along two new-to-us travel packs: The North Face Base Camp and the Nomatic Travel Pack, both of which are now featured in the guide above. We’ll be sure to add any other standouts and favorites to the list above with each update.   

Travel Backpack Buying Advice

Size and capacity.

• Carry-on Size Restrictions

Organization: Pockets and Main Compartment Access

Carrying comfort, grab handles and alternate carry methods.

• Other Features

Construction and Durability

Fit and sizing, women’s-specific travel backpacks, sustainability, packing cubes and other accessories, do you need a travel backpack.

The first question to answer when choosing a travel pack is how much capacity you anticipate needing. For reference, the options above range from 30 liters on the small end (the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag ) all the way up to 70 liters for the Osprey Farpoint 70 (with the 15L daypack attached). Most travelers will land on something in the middle, with the sweet spot for many being in the 40- to 45-liter range—it’s no coincidence that well over half of the models above fall into this grouping, which is largely due to their carry-on-compliant dimensions.   

In general, we’ve found that packs of this size can easily accommodate a week or two of clothing, toiletries, and other travel accessories (and even more if you pack light). For reference, we had no issues fitting 14 days’ worth of belongings into the 40-liter version of Topo Designs’ Global Travel Bag on a recent trip to Patagonia. If you stick to weekend adventures, you can keep things lighter and more compact (and save some cash in the process) by opting for the smaller, 30-liter variation. On the flip side, those embarking on longer expeditions abroad might need to step up to a larger design like the Osprey Farpoint 70 or 80 (at the sacrifice of carry-on compatibility).  

Travel Backpack Dimensions

Dimensions are a crucial consideration for most travelers, and especially those headed abroad. With that in mind, we’ve listed the length, width, and height measurements for each travel pack above both in the write-ups and in our comparison table . As you may notice, similarly sized travel packs don’t vary too considerably in terms of dimensions. This is mainly due to carry-on size restrictions, which we break down more in depth below. Carry-on Size Restrictions Right off the bat, we’ll note that there is technically no standardized size requirement for carry-on luggage domestically or abroad. That said, the universally accepted dimensions within the U.S. are 22 x 14 x 9 inches or 45 linear inches when adding L+W+H. We’ve indicated whether each travel pack above meets these requirements in our comparison table, and REI Co-op does the same on each of their product pages. The only exception above is the Osprey Farpoint 70 , which measures 25.6 x 15 x 12.6 inches.  

It’s also important to call out expandable models here like the Peak Design Travel Backpack , which is carry-on compliant when compressed to 35 liters (22 x 13 x 9.5 in.) but not when expanded to its maximum 45-liter capacity (22 x 13 x 11 in.). You may be able to get away with carrying these bags onboard, but don’t count on it, especially if you’re traveling during peak season to a popular destination. When in doubt, you can always check with your airline ahead of time.  

All of the packs above are purpose-built for travel with extensive organizational layouts and thoughtfully placed pockets for separating valuables, electronics, and other accessories. That said, some layouts are more functional than others, and a final decision will largely come down to your intended use and what works best for the items that you plan to bring along. For instance, sleek options like the Peak Design Travel Backpack and Nomatic Travel Bag are great for digital nomads and remote workers who need to organize a lot of electronics, while backpacking-inspired designs like Osprey’s Farpoint and Sojourn Porter offerings have fewer tech-focused features but work great for adventure travel. We break down some of the key organizational components below, from laptop and tablet sleeves to water bottle storage and pack opening styles.  

Laptop and Tablet Sleeves Laptop storage is a requisite feature in a travel pack, and all of the picks above come with a dedicated spot to stash larger electronics. In terms of dimensions, most sleeves can accommodate up to a 15-inch laptop, and many come with separate smaller compartments in the same space for a tablet, too. This area is typically well padded to protect electronics and positioned along the backpanel for the best access and weight distribution (keeping heavier items closest to your back will help maximize comfort and balance). A couple exceptions to this rule are the Pacsafe EXP45 and Mystery Ranch Mission Rover 45 , both of which have the laptop sleeve at the front of the pack and can feel a little less well balanced with heavier electronics situated farther away from your body.  

Water Bottle Pockets Unlike laptop sleeves, side water bottle pockets aren’t a standard feature on travel packs. Some models that include them are the Topo Designs Global Travel Pack, Peak Design Travel Backpack, Osprey Farpoint 70 (on its removable daypack), Eagle Creek Tour , and Thule Aion, while the Cotopaxi Allpa and Amazon Basics Carry-On leave them out. And it’s worth noting that the Farpoint’s removable daypack is also compatible with a hydration reservoir, including a sleeve and access ports at either side for a tube (Note: This area on the daypack doubles as the laptop sleeve).   

Opening Styles and Access Easy access is a hallmark of a good travel backpack. The clamshell-style opening is far and away the most popular design and for good reason: With the pack laid flat, you can easily see and access the entirety of the main compartment. Some backpack-inspired designs, like Osprey's Sojourn Porter 46 and Farpoint 70, utilize generous U-zip designs instead, which are pretty functional but make it a little harder to reach contents at the very bottom of the bags. Finally, it's important to note that some bags come with multiple access points: The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L, for instance, includes both a full wraparound zipper and “shortcut” side zip next to the backpanel for easily retrieving items while on the move.  

Comfort can be somewhat subjective, but a few features help certain travel packs stand out from the rest of the market. Typically, the most comfortable designs boast shoulder straps and hipbelts with thick padding and good adjustability for dialing in fit. Sternum and load-lifter straps can also be very helpful in effectively distributing a heavy load. One brand that stands out in this area is Osprey, which makes sense given their expertise in the backpacking pack market. One of our favorite options for shuttling heavy loads over long distances is Osprey Sojourn Porter 46 , which features thick cushioning and good adjustability at the shoulders and waist belt and comes with load lifters for bringing the weight closer to your back.  

On the flip side, models without hipbelts are generally the least comfortable, especially when wearing them for extended stretches. From the list above, only the Thule Aoin doesn’t come with one, although their Aion Sling Bag (sold separately for $50) can be attached to serve as a hipbelt. Thin webbing designs—like what you get with the Amazon Basics Carry-On and Yeti Crossroads —aren’t much better, providing very little support and structure for keeping the weight of the pack on your hips (rather than your back). If you plan to be walking long distances with your pack through airports or city streets, we consider a well-padded waist belt a critical feature and worth the added investment.   

The models above are designed to be worn on your back as backpacks, but many travelers appreciate the ability to carry their pack suitcase-style or over the shoulder. These options are especially helpful when standing in line to check in at the airport or retrieve travel documents. For instance, the Peak Design Travel Backpack boasts 360-degree grab handles that make it quick and easy to take the pack off and carry it one-handed through security checkpoints or narrow airplane aisles. Designs like the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L also come with detachable straps for shoulder carry, which can be helpful when you need to access items inside but want to keep the pack off the ground and remain hands-free. Finally, many of the offerings here can be secured to a roller bag via pass-through sleeves, which we cover more below.  

Other Travel Pack Features

In addition to pockets and electronics sleeves, there are a few other features specific to travel packs that are worth having on your radar. Lockable zippers are fairly standard at the mid to upper end of the market (budget designs like the Amazon Basics Carry-On Travel Backpack forgo them), as are removable and/or stowable straps and compression straps or dividers to keep things tidy in the main compartment. As is common with backpacking models, some travel packs also come with built-in rain covers that stow away when not in use, including Cotopaxi’s Allpa 35L and Eagle Creek’s Tour 40L. Finally, many will appreciate the ability to attach their travel pack directly to a rolling suitcase via a pass-through handle or sleeve (like what you get with Yeti Crossroads 35L and many others above).  

Given the inherently rough nature of travel, all of the packs above are well built and hardwearing enough to withstand frequent use. That said, some are certainly more durable than others, and looking at denier (a measurement of fabric thickness) can help differentiate between models. For instance, the Gregory Border Carry-On 40 is pretty average with a mix of 210- and 450-denier (D) materials, while the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is one of the thickest and most abrasion-resistant options on our list with a combination of 1,000D polyester and 840D ballistic nylon (Topo Designs' Global Travel Bag uses a similar combo but with 1,000D nylon and 1,680D ballistic nylon). Pacsafe’s EXP45 is another standout, with stainless steel wire mesh built into the 400D nylon body to guard against theft. At the thinner end, Matador’s GlobeRider45 uses a mix of mostly 100 and 420D fabrics, although the nylon body is coated with a PU laminate to boost weather and abrasion resistance, and Matador included reinforcements in high-wear areas.  

Other durability-related additions to keep an eye out for are thick padding along the interior to promote structure and protect your belongings, weather-resistant details like YKK zippers and DWR coatings on the outside to fend off precipitation, and thicker materials at the base to help protect the pack when you set it down. And we should note here that cost often correlates pretty closely with overall quality. In other words, a budget pack like the Amazon Basics Carry-On Travel Backpack feels noticeably cheaper than most other options above and will likely wear down far more quickly. If you’re a frequent traveler, it’s almost certainly worth investing in a pricier and more premium option that will last.  

The weight spread isn’t huge among travel pack designs, but even a 1-pound difference may still be noticeable during long treks across town or the airport. For reference, the lightest options on our list are Eagle Creek’s Tour 40L and Topo Designs’ Global Travel Bag 30L (both 2 lb. 10 oz.), while the Osprey Farpoint 70 is the heaviest at 5 pounds 6.6 ounces. Most models fall somewhere in the middle, with the majority of 40- to 45-liter designs hovering somewhere between 3 and 4.5 pounds. In the end, weight won’t be a primary consideration for many travelers, but those backpacking through Europe or expecting to cover serious ground will probably want to shop toward the lighter end.  

Unlike their backpacking pack counterparts, travel packs are most often only offered in a single unisex option. This can make it difficult to dial in fit, especially for those with particularly narrow or broad builds. One exception above is the Eagle Creek Tour 40L , which is offered in both S/M and M/L torso sizes, while a couple others (which we cover below) are sold in dedicated women’s models for better customizing fit. Regardless of which option you choose, we always recommend trying on multiple packs before buying to see which fits you best (or at least purchasing from a reputable manufacturer with a generous return policy). You’ll want to be sure that you can adjust the shoulder straps and waist belt to be snug around your torso and waist. Sternum straps and load lifters can also be helpful for bringing the load closer to your back to maximize comfort and weight distribution.

As we mentioned above, most travel packs are unisex by design. In fact, only one model on our list is offered in a dedicated women’s-specific version: the Osprey Fairview (the Farpoint’s counterpart). Key differences include varying colorways, minor weight variations, and slightly smaller torso and waist measurements. The Fairview also has more contoured shoulder straps and a curved hipbelt to better conform to narrower torsos/shoulders and larger hips, although the packs share an otherwise identical overall construction and feature set. Regardless of designation, we always recommend choosing the pack that fits you best.  

In 2024, it’s pretty common to see pack manufacturers incorporating eco-friendly practices into production, including measures like recycled and bluesign-approved fabrics and PFAS/PFC-free DWR coatings. A couple examples include Pacsafe’s Venturesafe EXP45, which uses polyester that's made from recycled water bottles and other plastics, and Patagonia’s Black Hole Mini MLC 30L, which uses recycled and bluesign-approved (i.e., environmentally safe) polyester and is certified to the Fair Trade standard. A final feature to look out for is a PFC-free DWR coating, which forgoes the use of per- or polyfluorinated chemicals—"forever chemicals" known to be harmful to the environment. With many states stepping up to ban the sale of items that include PFCs, the outdoor industry is seeking better solutions for water- and stain-resistant finishes (for more, you can read about Patagonia’s take on the issue ).  

Packing your travel pack can often feel like playing a hard game of Tetris, especially for those of us who aren’t great at traveling light (this author included). To help, many of the brands above offer compatible accessories for their packs, from packing cubes to protective hard cases for electronics and more. Importantly, these add-ons are often modular and fit neatly into the main compartment of a compatible backpack. Some of our favorites include Topo Designs’ Pack Bags , Peak Design’s Packing Cubes and Tech Pouches, and Eagle Creek’s Pack-It compression cubes. In the end, these accessories aren't a necessary purchase for many travelers (and you certainly don't need to buy them from the same manufacturer as your pack), but they can go a long way toward maximizing organization and space and streamlining your load.  

The packs above make it easy and comfortable to shuttle your belongings across the globe, but not everyone needs a specialized design for travel. Duffel bags are another popular way to fly with a lot of clothing and gear, and many modern designs come with deployable backpack straps for more easily hauling through airports and around urban areas. However, duffels lack the impressive assortment of dedicated storage compartments and pockets for items like keys, passports, and electronics, are generally less comfortable to carry over long distances, and often don’t meet carry-on size requirements.  

Alternatively, some travelers may opt to use a standard backpacking pack . This can make a lot of sense when you’re traveling to hike, backpack, or embark on other adventures and plan to use your pack both for travel and for outdoor use when you arrive. Again, however, the lack of travel-specific features and organization options can make it harder to effectively divvy up your belongings. In the end, if you plan to fly domestically or abroad with any regularity (more than a couple times a year), we think most will find the investment in a dedicated travel pack worth it. Back to Our Top Travel Backpack Picks   Back to Our Travel Pack Comparison Table

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The Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks for Any Adventure

Whether used solo or packed alongside other bags, the best travel backpacks we’ve tested hold plenty of stuff and make it all easy to access.

By Will Sabel Courtney and Ben Bowers

Every product is carefully selected by our editors. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission.  Learn more

An excellent carry-on-sized travel and adventure backpack can be a packing game changer. Whether used solo for shorter trips or carried along with other luggage for extended journeys, the best options offer plenty of storage space for clothes and a slew of easy access and protective pockets for water bottles, laptops, and other personal items.

Having spent many days on airplanes crisscrossing continents and oceans for work and play alike, here are the best carry-on travel and adventure bags we’ve tested and recommend hovering in the 35–55 liter size range.

Carry-On Travel & Adventure Backpacks We Recommend

Best Overall

Best Rollaboard Replacement

Best Bargain

Best Multi-Use

Smartest Feature Set

Most Distinctive Option

• Made in America

Most Versatile

Best for Awkward-Sized Gear

How We Test Travel & Adventure Backpacks

Our tester journeyed far and wide on numerous trips by plane, train and automobile with these backpacks, loading them up with apparel, gadgets and gear to see how they handle the stress. They were loaded and unloaded into luggage racks, trunks and back seats alike, carried on long walks to and from terminals and destinations, and left to bash about in the closet between trips.

For many of the tests, he loaded it up with a typical array of clothing and equipment one would need for a business or personal trip of several days time: an extra pair of jeans or slacks, 2–3 T-shirts, 1–2 overshirts or button-downs, a pair of sneakers, gym shorts and shirts, a DSLR camera , iPhone charger and Apple Watch charger and of course, several changes of undergarments.

To learn more about our testing methodology and how we evaluate products, head here .

Best Overall Travel Backpack

Peak Design 45L Travel Backpack

• Can expand from a 35L day bag into 45L multi-day gear hauler
• Offers many ways to load & access contents
• Backpack straps can hide conveniently out of site via magnets
• Weather proof shell
• Main pouch less accessible than some other bags on the list
• Cinch straps only work okay
• $299 at Peak Design
• $299 at Huckberry
• $299 at REI
• $299 at Backcountry
• $299 at Amazon

Peak Design’s travel backpack has been a top pick of ours for a while now , and suffice it to say, it’s still impressive. You can tell it’s a premium product from the first moment you lay hands and eyes on it; it looks and feels nice, from the action of the zippers to the smooth, almost waxy waterproof exterior to the soft, gentle gray fabric of the interior. But look closer, and you’ll find more features you might have missed the first time; hidden magnets seamlessly tuck away the backpack straps when not in use. (Just be sure you check the straps’ length every time you pull them back out, as they can slide out longer a little more easily than some bags.)

Of course, none of that would matter if it weren’t capable of carrying a bunch of gear. Luckily, this bag excels at that. Two main pockets easily enable the carriage of several days’ worth of apparel, while smaller slots for everything from toiletries to cables to headphones to laptops are found inside. There are grab handles for one-handed toting, multiple zippers for easy entry from several angles, and slots for water bottles on the sides, of course. We also love that unlike most other options on this list, this bag can contract down to a smaller-sized bag 35 L capacity for shorter trips or bulk up to a 45 L if you need to bring more along (or wound up acquiring a few items while out on the road.) All in all, it’s probably as close to the perfect travel backpack as you might find on sale today.

Best Rollaboard Replacement Travel Backpack

Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L

• Designed to maximize allowable carry-on space
• Opens and packs like a carry-on suitcase
• Featured padded hip belt with side pocket for better weight distribution
• Accessing items in main compartment can be awkward on the go
• Lacks luggage pass-through sleeve
• Slightly heavier than other options
• $350 at Tortuga

Tortuga’s Travel Backpack Pro is regarded as one of the best travel backpacks for good reason. Its rectangular shape lets the bag maximize its available storage capacity while ensuring its dimensions fall within standard airline carry-on guidelines. The primary storage compartment also opens as a suitcase to reveal a large mesh zipper compartment side and a spacious main compartment. Depending on your use case, this design detail can be a pro or con. On the one hand, it’s great to lay the bag flat on a bed and unzip the clam shell zipper to reveal and grab whatever’s inside quickly. However, quickly grabbing something buried deep inside the main compartment can be difficult if you don’t have enough space to lay the bag fully flat. The bag’s space-maximizing design also means its physically and aesthetically a bit more boxy than other options we recommend. Tortuga sells a smaller 30L capacity version of the same bag if 40L feels too big for your needs.

Best Bargain Travel Backpack

Aer Travel Pack 3

• Features handles on all sides
• Tons of pockets, including a hidden one for Airtags / Tracker
• Includes luggage handle pass-through strap
• $249 at Aer

Aer’s Travel Pack 3 is a little more affordable than the Peak Design entry, but don’t hold that against it; this bag is a lot like the above model. There are an abundance of pockets; you won’t have any trouble finding a place for everything and putting everything in its place. And while it doesn’t look or feel quite as premium when standing next to the Peak Design bag, it still has the quality and appearance of a high-end product.

On the downside, the orientation of the main pouch can make opening it and filling the bag a bit trickier than some other entries on the list, and the magnetic clips for the chest strap and cinch straps feel like an unnecessary complication. It’s also a little smaller than other recommendations on this list. Still, overall, it’s a great choice for a few days on the road.

Best Multi-Use Travel Backpack

Yeti Crossroads Backpack 35L

• Made from thick, abrasion resistant nylon
• Stable luggage pass through sleeve
• Removable external straps for lashing on other gear
• Sold in multiple smaller sizes
• Laptop sleeve is a little smaller compared to other bags
• Less water resistance than other options
• Lack of DWR coating also means its more prone to staining
• $250 at Yeti

Yeti’s approach to backpacks is the same as its coolers . The brand’s Crossroads Backpack is a durably constructed and capable bag with a slightly less techy aesthetic than other recommendations on this list. It also includes a unique feature mix that makes it great for airports, city travel, and outdoor adventures.

For work-related trips or voyages within city limits, it’s got padded organization pockets for various items, including a laptop, and opens clamshell-style for easier packing. In cases of outdoor adventuring, it also features a pair of removal external straps for toting along other items like a rain shell, ground cover, or a lightweight camp chair. There’s also a pocket big enough to fit a 26 oz water bottle, although it’s located inside the bag, which might be a controversial decision for some. We lack the fact that Yeti sells smaller 22 L and 27 L versions of the bag for those interesting in something that’s closer in size to a more traditional backpack.

The Travel Backpack with the Smartest Feature Set

Matador GlobeRider 45L Travel Backpack

• Features a highly adjustable outdoor backpack style harness for optimizing carrying comfort and weight distribution
• Stowable main backpack straps can tuck away for checking
• Dedicated internal compartment that's great for keeping dirty / worn shoes from the rest of the bag's contents
• Looks more technical / camping oriented than other options
• Bigger compared to other tweener-sized options
• $350 at Matador
• $350 at Huckberry
• $350 at REI
• $350 at Backcountry

Smart design details distinguish all of Matador’s products, and their premium  GlobeRider 45 travel and adventure backpack  puts this part of the brand’s DNA on full display. While the sheer variety of features makes this bag stand out, its outdoor-grade harness, complete with adjustable load lifters, a contoured aluminum framestay, and a backpacking carry harness, make it one of the best travel backpack options for anyone who expects to walk long distances carrying it. The harness is also stowable behind the padded back panel, which can help prevent the bag from being caught up in machinery if you decide to check it. 

We also love the larger, built-in internal organization pocket that’s sizeable enough to keep a pair of dirty hiking boots separated from other packed items and the internal shockcord securement system on the other side for keeping contents in place when the bag is open. There’s even a “smugglers pocket” tucked away behind the back panel for keeping critical items like a Passport out of harm’s way.

Most Distinctive Travel Backpack

Cotopaxi Allpa 42L Travel Pack

• Available in more colorful outdoorsy-styled versions, including a randomized Del Dia option
• Includes removable raincover
• Includes strap for carrying crossbody
• Designed to work perfectly with Cotopaxi packing cubes and accessories
• Includes a lifetime warranty + repairs
• Less open space for cramming gear inside
• $220 at Cotopaxi
• $220 at Amazon
• $220 at REI

We gravitate to more unremarkable colors in bags. Still, if you prefer your equipment to stand out or like owning something unique,  Cotopaxi’s Allpa 42 L is an excellent option . It’s available in various standard colors, most of which mix and match various bright shades to give off a classic outdoorsy vibe. But there’s also the option of buying a one-of-a-kind  “Del Dia” version  made from leftover parts and pieces from other companies’ production runs. While you can pick the primary color you are interested in, the different colored elements of the bag are determined on the production line based on available materials. The result is an aesthetically unique bag that’s also more sustainably produced. 

But don’t assume the appeal of this bag is all aesthetic. It also offers plenty of practical travel-centric details, including various internal zippered organization pockets, a removal rainfly for foul weather protection, and a removable waist belt. Its primary harness straps can also be tucked away for easier checking. 

If you want to enter the Cotopaxi travel ecosystem fully, the bag is also specifically designed to fit the company’s packing cubes and fanny pack.

Best Made in the USA Travel Backpack

GoRuck GR3 45L USA

• Ridiculously sturdy and tough
• Simple design
• Harder to access laptop and other pockets on the go
• Expensive compared to bags with bells & whistles
• $455 at goruck.com

GoRuck is known for building bags that are sturdy as hell, and meant to go through it, too. The canvas skin feels thick enough to resist tiger claws. That’s not to say it’s harsh on the wearer; 201D Cordura straps and back panels feel plenty soft even over the long haul. We tested the smaller GR1, but even that 26-liter bag punched above its weight, proving large enough to carry our usual kit without much trouble; the 45-liter GR3 will no doubt prove capable of taking whatever you throw at it, inside or out.

With only one main compartment and a couple rather small pockets, it’s a bit harder to stash smaller items in their own areas — you may have to rummage through your underwear to grab your laptop — but if your priority is making sure everything in your bag stays safe and sound no matter what, GoRuck has you covered. Be aware that this bag is often sold out.

Most Versatile Travel Backpack

Osprey Farpoint 55 Travel Pack

• A built-in secondary pack is great for day trips
• Massive capacity
• More affordable than other options
• Re-assembly of constituent bags can be tricky when full
• Forces you to split your gear up between two bags when packing
• $220.00 at osprey.com
• $176 at Backcountry Gear $220 (20% off)
• $215 at Amazon
• $220 at L.L. Bean

Nerd alert: What does the Osprey Farpoint 55 have in common with the USS Enterprise-D from Star Trek: The Next Generation? (Which, coincidentally, first aired with a pilot called “Encounter at Farpoint.”) Well, both starship and backpack can separate into two separate vessels if the need arises. In the case of the Osprey, that means the smaller, secondary pocket detaches to become its own daypack, perfectly sized for short hikes and office visits. Combined, the complete bag is a mammoth beast, capable of taking on a stunning amount of gear; if you tend to pick up souvenirs on your trips, this bag is for you.

On the less-appealing side, it’s a bit difficult to get into the main bag when “assembled,” and that assembly process can be tricky when both bags are stuffed. Combined, the overall package is bulky; it’s not an issue when wearing it (or at least it wasn’t for our six-foot-four-inch tester), but it does generally necessitate splitting the bag into its constituent parts on the airplane, stowing the big part in the overhead and the small one under the seat ahead.

Best Travel Backpack for Awkward-Sized Gear

Patagonia Cragsmith Pack 45L

• Giant pocket and wide opening make for easy packing
• Light compared to other bags
• Not as optimal for business travel as some other bags
• No true dedicated sleeve for laptops or tablets
• $152.99 at Patagonia $219.00 (30% off)

Of course, any list of high-quality backpacks wouldn’t be complete without a Patagonia entry. The Cragsmith may be made for rock climbing, but it’s also a good fit for travel, with ample capacity in a giant central compartment as well as secondary slots for other gear. That said, the lack of a second main compartment may be a turn-off for some, and the relaxed sleeve on the inside of the main cargo bay is better suited for rope than a laptop. But if you want a sleek travel backpack from one of the best names in outdoor equipment, the Cragsmith should treat you right.

Key details to consider before deciding on the right travel or adventure backpack for your needs.

• Do you plan on using your travel or adventure backpack frequently in conjunction with a rollaboard? If yes, we recommend keying in on options that feature a luggage pass-through sleeve. This will allow you to take the bag off your back and more easily roll it with your suitcase during extended treks in the airport.
• Do you plan on using your travel backpack off the beaten path or expect to be exposed to the elements for longer stretches? If yes, look for options made with DWR coatings or sold with an included rainfly as well as sealed zippers for added water protection.
• Do you plan on walking/hiking long distances while wearing the travel backpack? If yes, we recommend focusing on backpacks that offer integrated waist straps or, even better, more adjustable/tunable harnesses. Both features will allow you to distribute the weight of the bag better and for more comfort. 
• Do you plan on ever checking your travel backpack on an airplane? While less critical than the other considerations, bags with stowable straps and harnesses are better suited for checking. It’s an unlikely risk, but extraneous straps can get caught in conveyor belt machinery while being scanned.
• Do you prefer packing with packing cubes and smaller bags? If so, then we recommend looking at backpacks with less built-in organization pockets to maximize what you can carry. If you’re in the opposite camp, then many of the options that include a variety of pockets and zippered compartments can help you quickly find whatever you’ve packed.

An easy rubric for gauging the right sized carry-on adventure backpack for your needs.

If you are hoping to use a single backpack for a trip lasting more than three days, we recommend focusing on bags with a capacity of 40 L unless you are an extremely light packer.

A handy list of approved carry-on sizes for major U.S. domestic airlines

Approved Carry-on sizing reference table last updated 4/9/2024

To learn more about how big (or heavy) your carry-on can be, refer to our broader guide to the best carry-on suitcases for every trip .

Related Topics

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The best overnight packs (35-49l), reviewed and curated by the Trailspace community. The latest review was added on July 15, 2023. Stores' prices and availability are updated daily.

Recent Overnight Pack (35-49L) Reviews

Gregory alpinisto 35.

My go-to pack for winter day hikes. My first contact with Gregory Alpinisto was back in 2018 by a mountaineering instructor that swore by this pack for its custom fit and versatility. He was not wrong. The yellow option looked good! The pack comes in three sizes (S/M-M-M/L) depending on the back length. I measured my spine before ordering the medium size and length fits my back perfectly. Glove friendly zippers all around. The packs weighs 1.435 grams without the bivy foam pad (adds 30-50 grams… Full review

Osprey Talon 33

It's light. Juuuuust big enough for overnight or a few days if you go ultralight. This is for the men's version. Mine fits 5.8, should go shorter > taller, so there you go ladies. Great daypack. Great ski/board pack. No complaints. Got all yer belzNwhistles without extra weight (key clip, full pockets, compression, bottle sides, that kinda thing.) Comfortable as any pack I've owned w day loads. Ventilation solid but not superior. I can't speak to this backpacking (really no reason not to use… Full review

Hyperlite Mountain Gear 2400 Southwest

Spacious and waterproof bag for ultralight hiking. The thing is so light and works great! I love the outside pockets and fold-close top to keep any water out. This backpack is AMAZING. It's CRAZY light It's waterproof (so you don't need a separate backpack cover) All my gear for a week-long backpacking trip fit perfectly The weight was well distributed, but my left hip did become a little sore after a long 10+ mile day If you want to get into ultralight backpacking, this is one of the best packs… Full review

Osprey Stratos 34

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Osprey Exos 48

Well thought out pack. Absolute improvement on previous versions. I wish I could review this pack in detail. The fact is I'll probably never end up using it. I ended up getting another pack that is even lighter and assuming it works out, I'll not see a need to ever use this pack. But I did want to touch on the quality of what I see. These packs are about the highest quality I have ever seen. All stitching and seams are almost as perfect as they can be. With this pack Osprey has added features that… Full review

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The 15 Best Packable Backpacks for Travel [2023]

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

772 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 63 U.S. States Visited: 9

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

32 Published Articles 3109 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 45 U.S. States Visited: 28

Things To Consider With Packable Backpacks

1. the best big brand small daypack, 2. comfortable and breathable daypack, 3. spacious packable daypack with wet pocket, 4. lightweight backpack for fashion-conscious adventurers, 5. premium look and feel, 6. budget packable backpack, 7. strong and lightweight everyday daypack, 8. heavy-duty packable backpack for year-round use, 9. compact packable daypack that folds up super small, 10. the best minimalist packable backpack, 11. ultralightweight daypack with lots of color options, 12. perfect foldable backpack for emergencies, 13. the best backpack for your laptop, 14. designer foldable backpack for cool customers, 15. safest backpack for tech-loving travelers, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

Lightweight, foldable, and perfect for stashing in your travel bag, a packable backpack offers all the space you need for days trips and other excursions.

Made from strong and waterproof material, these little backpacks can hold up to 35 liters of your most essential items and can be folded up into their own zippered pocket or pouch when not in use.

The best daypack for your everyday adventures will be the one that best suits your individual requirements. Before you buy, consider the following:

Daypacks aren’t designed to carry all the clothing you need for a week away, but they should offer enough space to carry an extra layer or 2, as well as your water bottle , tablet , and other essentials .

Most daypacks offer between 15 and 25 liters of useful storage space , and although they are basic, they still come with zippered pockets and inner compartments.

Your daypack may be lightweight, but it should still be strong enough to be able to hold your laptop, books, and other heavier items without weighing you down.

In order to fold up nice and compact, your daypack will need to be made of thin and flexible material. On that basis, it will also be much lighter than your regular backpack or carry-on .

When it comes to daypacks, the lighter, the better, so look for bags that weigh less than 8 ounces when empty . Some ultralight models may even weigh as little as 3 ounces, making them an excellent choice for more extreme adventurers.

Portability

The very notion of a packable backpack is that you can fold it up nice and small and stash it away when not in use. All of the lightweight backpacks we have chosen can either be folded up and popped into their own separate travel pouch or folded in on themselves to fit into a zippered pocket.

Basic design doesn’t have to be impractical, and all of our favorite packable backpacks come complete with additional pockets to keep your gear well-organized. With zippered external pockets, you can enjoy quick and easy access to your most used items, while internal pouches and pockets let you keep your valuables safe.

Bottom Line: As these backpacks are most commonly used when you are out exploring, they almost always come with dedicated mesh water bottle pockets on the sides.

Shoulder Straps

Despite their feather-light dimensions, a good, packable backpack should be a comfortable carry, even when full. Some come with breathable mesh straps , while others are lightly padded. Some more advanced models may also come with a sternum strap to help evenly distribute the weight of your belongings while you walk.

The 15 Best Packable Backpac ks for Travel

Osprey ultralight stuff pack.

Made from 40D ripstop nylon fabric, this awesome backpack from the big boys at Osprey is a must-have for outdoor adventurers.

The innovative, ultralight construction means that it can be tucked away into its very own stuff pack, no larger than the size of an apple.

The deluxe AirMesh harness offers a comfortable carry, even when full . The zippered stash pocket, stretch mesh pocket, and internal security pocket make this an awesome way to carry your essentials when you don’t want to take up extra room in your luggage.

What We Like

• Perfect packable daypack for regular adventurers

What We Don’t Like

• It could be improved with a little extra support

The North Face Flyweight Packable Travel Backpack

The 60 g/m² nylon with Cordura ripstop construction makes this a super sturdy, but also incredibly lightweight, packable daypack.

The water-repellent (DWR) finish helps rainwater and moisture to roll right away from your belongings, and the versatile design can be packed up small into its own little pocket to throw in your travel bag on vacation.

A breathable mesh shoulder strap is comfortable to carry , and the zippered main compartment has enough space for all of your most essential items.

It has plenty of useful spaces for storing your most used items with 2 external stretch-mesh water bottle pockets and an additional pocket with top compression. Offering 17 liters of storage space in total, this daypack measures up at a compact yet practical 20 x 13.5 x 8.5 inches.

• Hugs the curve of your spine
• It feels a little fragile

Outlander 35L Lightweight Packable Daypack

Available in a selection of bold colors, this backpack has a well-organized design and is made from high-quality, tear- and water-resistant nylon fabric.

With a sizable 35-liter main compartment, it comes with heavy-duty zippers and extra stitching on the stress points, giving it a more durable design than some of its lighter-weight counterparts.

This daypack can be folded up small enough to snap back into its own storage pocket , and with innovative features such as a chest strap with a whistle buckle, an internal divider, and smaller zippered pockets, it offers plenty of practical storage.

• A durable and incredibly practical daypack
• 35 liters is a bit of a squeeze

Herschel Packable Casual Daypack

Coming in a supercool selection of colors and designs, this ultralightweight daypack is full of urban chic and practical storage space.

Measuring 17 x 12 x 5 inches, it has a sizable main zipper compartment and an additional internal self-storage pocket with a useful snap closure.

The 2-way exposed plastic zipper is sturdy and built to last through many adventures, and with a signature striped internal seam detail, this foldable daypack looks and feels like a high-quality piece of gear.

• Super lightweight and packable
• Not as durable as some of its competitors

TUMI – Voyageur Just In Case Backpack

Sleek and stylish, this lightweight daypack is made from strong, durable, and fully-lined nylon and is designed to fold completely flat for easy packing.

Perfect for shopping, day trips at the beach, or even on outdoor excursions, it has a practical and purposeful design and even comes with its own zipper pouch.

With internal and external pockets, adjustable shoulder straps, and a sleeve to slide over the handle of your spinner suitcase, it is a really useful accessory for everyday use.

• Folds up nice and small
• It’s not the biggest daypack out there

OneTrail 30L Packable Hiking Daypack

This little backpack is basic but brilliant, lightweight, and practical, and it’s a must-have for day trips and excursions. The ultralightweight design makes it easy and comfortable to carry , and the 30-liter capacity offers all the space you need for your every essential.

With a roomy main compartment, a front zipper, an internal pocket, and 2 extra mesh side pockets, it is easy to keep your belongings well-organized, and the adjustable mesh straps are easy to adjust to fit your size.

This is a superb little daypack for savvy travelers with the ability to be folded up into its own pocket when not in use.

• Compact to throw in your suitcase
• The zippers can get stuck on the zipper cover

NEEKFOX 35L Ultralight Daypack

Available in a range of super bold colorways, this little backpack comes with a matching pouch that will stand out on your travel bag.

Made from high-quality tear- and water-resistant materials , it is strong and sturdy and has bar-tacks at all the major stress points.

The breathable mesh shoulder straps with padding make it easy to carry, even when full, and the chest strap helps to evenly distribute the weight of your belongings.

The main compartment offers 35 liters of storage space, and it also comes with 2 further front zippered pockets and 2 side pockets.

• Folds up into its own zipper pocket
• The compression straps on the sides aren’t particularly strong

ZOMAKE Small Hiking Backpack

This multi-function backpack is made from water- and tear-resistant nylon material and comes in a choice of colorways.

Heavy-duty SBS metal zippers help ensure that it is built to last , and the innovative design can be folded in and zippered into its own pouch for easy transportation.

With a 25-liter capacity, you can easily carry a full day’s worth of essentials, and the mesh side pockets and exterior zipper pocket offer extra space for easy-to-reach items.

Adjustable shoulder straps make it comfortable to carry, even when full, and the high-quality construction makes this an excellent choice for day trips, shopping outings, and adventures in the great outdoors.

• The heavy-duty feel
• It does feel quite small

4Monster Hiking Daypack

Coming in a choice of eye-catching metallic colorways, this supercool little daypack is perfect for the practical and stylish traveler.

Weighing in at just 4 pounds, it is super lightweight, yet the tear- and water-resistant 30D nylon is strong enough to carry all of your essentials . Easy to fold up when not in use, it comes with a main zipper pocket, a front zipper pocket, and 2 mesh side pockets.

Adjustable shoulder straps make it easy to carry, and the backpack can be compressed into its own zipper pocket that is small enough to be slipped into your own coat pocket.

• Gives some of the more expensive models a run for their money
• Some of the colors are a little see-through

HIKPRO 20L Daypack

Lightweight and foldable, this awesome little daypack has a minimalist design and a lot of useful storage space.

It weighs just 7.5 ounces and feels light as a feather, and the roomy main compartment offers 20 liters of carrying space . There are 3 zippered compartments for your smaller items to help you stay organized, and the side mesh pockets make it easy to reach your items in transit.

Water-resistant, nice, and strong, this is a great choice for day trips, vacations, and hiking excursions.

• The strong and sturdy feel
• The mesh pockets are prone to developing holes

MIYCOO 45L Lightweight Packable Backpack

This backpack offers up to 45 liters of additional storage space, and the ultralightweight design makes it perfect for folding up and stashing in your carry bag or suitcase.

With 3 zippered compartments and a main compartment that is large and strong enough to carry your laptop and some clothes , it’s a great choice for day trips, and the inner zippered pocket is perfect for storing your valuables.

Water- and tear-resistant, this little backpack is suitable for use all year round, and the adjustable shoulder straps help to distribute the weight evenly on the move.

• Comes in a gorgeous selection of colors and designs
• Falls over easily as has no internal structure

Waterfly Lightweight Packable Hiking Backpack

This super lightweight daypack can be folded up and stored in its own built-in pouch — the perfect companion for day trips.

Perfect for when you are out and about, the nylon construction is water- and tear-proof , and the abrasion-resistant SBS zippers and reinforced stitching ensure that while it may be small, it is still incredibly strong and durable.

This model has a large main compartment, an outer smaller pocket, and an inner zippered pocket for valuables, and the adjustable shoulder straps help to evenly distribute the weight of your belongings.

• It’s an excellent emergency daypack at an affordable price
• Very little padding on the shoulder straps

Sinotron 22L Lightweight Packable Backpack

With contrasting zippers and attractive primary colorways, this cute little daypack is made from high-quality, water-resistant nylon fabric and comes with solid metal zippers for increased durability.

Offering 22 liters of storage space , it is large enough to carry your books, clothes, and even a laptop, and with side pockets and an external compartment, you can keep your drinks, and most used items close at hand.

The collapsible design lets you fold the backpack up into its own little pouch for easy transportation, and the breathable and adjustable mesh shoulder straps ensure it stays comfortable to carry, even when full.

• Bright and funky
• There are bigger options available if you need more space

Eddie Bauer Stowaway Packable 20L Daypack

Easy to carry and store, this foldable backpack is an essential and versatile go-anywhere accessory for days away from home.

The durable 200D ripstop polyester is tough enough to withstand the rigors of daily use , and the lightly padded mesh back panel will prevent it from feeling sweaty as you walk.

With mesh side pockets to hold your drink bottle, 3 external zip pockets, and an interior Velcro panel pocket, there is plenty of room to organize your stuff, and the 4 front lashing loops let you add extra accessories when you need to carry more.

• The über-trendy look
• Tends to bounce about a bit when you walk

Travsessed Anti-Theft Travel Backpack

This supercool little travel backpack comes with an RFID passport holder, wallet, and cell phone pouch that will help to keep your personal data protected on the go.

Offering an impressive 35 liters of storage space , it has a secure spot for laptops up to 16 inches, as well as extra pockets and compartments for your other essentials.

With deep mesh pockets for your water bottles and a key ring thrown in, this awesome travel backpack is perfect for day trips, overnight stays, and sightseeing tours.

The tough and durable ripstop nylon is tear- and waterproof, and when you are done using it, you can fold it up into its very own carry pouch.

• Versatile and durable
• It is a little pricey

A foldable backpack can be called on when what you need is a “less is more” solution. Lightweight, easy to carry, and even easier to store when not in use, these beauties offer all the practicality of a regular backpack without the weight.

Resistant to the elements, comfortable to carry, and designed to look anything but cheap, a packable backpack is a must-have item for sightseeing, shopping, beach trips, and day hikes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are packable backpacks.

As the name suggests, packable backpacks are bags that can be folded or rolled down and packed away in your main luggage. They are perfect for days out as they are lightweight and space-saving.

What is the capacity of a packable backpack?

Packable backpacks are mainly used as daypacks and will usually have a capacity of around 15 to 25 liters.

Are packable backpacks as comfortable as regular backpacks?

What you gain in portability you lose in comfort when it comes to packable backpacks versus regular backpacks. As they need to fold down and pack easily, they lack the padding on the back and straps that regular backpacks have.

What features should I look for in a packable backpack?

In addition to how small the backpack compresses down to, you should also look at organizational features, sternum straps, and breathability.

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About Amar Hussain

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

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The 10 best business travel backpacks for style and comfort

I recently ran into a pretty big issue on a work trip.

During the middle of a flight, my laptop was running out of charge, so I opened the overhead bin and pulled down my Away backpack, which had a charger inside the main pocket.

As I went to open the pocket, I couldn't get the zipper to pull. No matter how hard I tried, the zipper was stuck.

I eventually pried the pocket open enough, and when I landed back home, my local zipper-repair shop told me that I had one of two options: buy a brand-new backpack or pay $80 to install a new zipper track (that wouldn't even match the original one).

Away's lifetime warranty excludes backpacks (technically called "soft goods"), so I figured it was time to invest in a new bag. I wanted something that would be durable, stylish and spacious — but not too unwieldy.

I took to Instagram to ask for recommendations, and I got an overwhelming number of suggestions. I eventually distilled the list down to some top picks. And just in case you might also be in the market for a new travel backpack that works for business trips or hauling laptops around, I thought I'd share the tips, suggestions and research I used to make my decision.

Without further ado, here are the best business travel backpacks that maximize form and function.

Related: Review of the Away Larger Carry-On

Tumi Navigation Backpack

In my informal social media poll, no brand received as much praise as Tumi . That's not necessarily surprising, as this travel gear brand has been a fan favorite for frequent flyers for many years. Though Tumi makes a handful of durable bags, the Navigation Backpack excels for a wide range of travel needs.

There's a separate padded laptop compartment (that can fit even the largest MacBooks), as well as a main storage area and plenty of other smaller pockets.

But my favorite feature is the bag's zip expansion capability, which will certainly come in handy if you pick up some souvenirs or other swag during your trip.

The Navigation Backpack comes in five colors, giving you plenty of choices to match your personal travel style.

Tumi also offers two more contenders for the best business travel backpack: the slightly larger Alpha Bravo Search (which also came highly recommended in my Instagram poll) and the Bradner Backpack — the brand's most stylish one yet in my book.

Buy: From $525

Aer Pro Pack 20L

As far as business-travel backpacks go, Aer's is certainly quite stylish. It comes in three colors (black, navy and olive), and it's made of sustainable materials without compromising on durability. A separate laptop compartment safeguards your most precious technology, while the main compartment is large enough for all your chargers and other travel accessories.

The standout feature is that the main compartment features a 180-degree flat-open zipper system, which gives you unobstructed access to all of your belongings.

Plus, there's even a hidden pocket to store an AirTag or other smart device tracker so that you can locate your bag even if it's stolen or if you misplace it.

Buy: From $179

Rimowa Flap Backpack Large

If you're looking to make a statement, Rimowa's travel bags are the way to go.

This luxury bag manufacturer has entered the travel backpack space with its new Italian-made large canvas Flap Backpack, which even sports the iconic groove design on the outside.

The inside features a padded laptop sleeve and a large drawstring compartment to fit all of your travel essentials. With a flap-top enclosure secured by a magnetic buckle (that's emblazoned with the Rimowa logo), there's no doubt this is a very stylish, spacious and durable bag.

The one big downside? It is Rimowa and, as a result, doesn't come cheap. But it's also the bag that'll probably make the strongest first impression once you enter the boardroom.

Buy: From $1,700

Samsonite Novex Laptop Backpack

No worries if you are shopping for a travel backpack on a more down-to-earth budget, as the Samsonite best-seller has a lot going for it, starting with the price. At just $74.99 (on a 25% off sale at the moment), it's one of the most affordable bags in this guide.

Yet, the Novex Laptop Backpack doesn't compromise on the basics. The separate laptop and tablet pocket features a special webbing system that provides extra durability in case you drop the backpack. Plus, thanks to the special supportive lining on the top front pocket, you won't have to worry about misplacing your headphones, glasses or phones.

The main storage compartment has room for all the essentials, though you may not find it large enough for a full change of clothes or a pair of shoes.

While this backpack is a solid option and is a great deal considering the price, it doesn't feature all the bells and whistles you'd find with some of its competitors.

Buy: From $74.99

Nomatic 20L Backpack

Though you may have never heard of Nomatic before, this brand receives rave reviews from its loyalists. The company's best-seller backpack comes in two sizes, 14 liters and 20 liters, both of which are expandable by nearly 20%.

The flat rectangular design may be controversial at first glance, but at least you can't complain about finding space for all of your gizmos. The bag has a staggering 24 unique storage compartments that range from enclosed pockets to mesh nets, and it's a great bag for those who like to stay extremely organized when they're on the road.

Plus, with a water-resistant coating on the outside, this might just be one of the most durable travel backpacks out there.

Buy: From $279.99

Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack

The Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack has space for everything and then some. The padded rear pocket is the perfect spot for a laptop, and I love that you don't need to dig through your bag just to find your computer.

The main compartment is quite spacious, and you can even expand this space by nearly three liters, giving you more room for your belongings. Plus, the front pocket has a dedicated organizer with multiple pockets, so you'll never forget where you put your passport, charger and cables.

This may be one of the bigger bags in this guide, but you'd never know it just from looking at it. (You could opt for the smaller Timbuk2 Q Laptop Backpack if you want something smaller.)

If there's one downside, it's the style — the bag isn't nearly as eye-catching as some of the others.

Buy: From $209

Incase A.R.C. Daypack

Apple aficionados will no doubt be familiar with Incase, a popular brand of cases and protection solutions for iPhones, iPads and Macs.

That said, Incase's A.R.C. Daypack could be a great backpack option, even if you don't tote around a MacBook or iOS device. Much like an Apple product, the backpack's design is minimalist, yet highly functional.

The laptop pocket is big enough for a 16-inch computer, and it's lined in faux fur for additional protection. On top of that, the travel tech compartment has RFID-blocking technology, preventing thieves from stealing your digital info.

A water- and stain-resistant coating, two dedicated water bottle holders and a pass-through system for rollaboard bags make this the ideal bag for anyone going from the gym to the office to the airport. If you need something bigger, Incase also makes a larger A.R.C. travel pack.

But perhaps just as importantly, both bags are made from a sustainable mixture of recycled polyester, giving them their A.R.C, or "a responsible carry," acronym.

Buy: From $127.18

Ogio Renegade RSS Laptop Backpack

If you're looking for the bag with the most pockets, this might just be the one for you.

Ogio's flagship backpack has dedicated space for everything (laptop and iPad included) and then some. A phone pocket, two zippered side pockets, five main pockets — you might just get lost looking around for your gear.

No matter how much you stuff this nearly 30-liter backpack, you shouldn't have much of a problem carrying it around. I love the supportive padded back panel and shoulder straps, which make it easy to lug it around the airport or corporate campus.

Just note that the bag isn't necessarily the most stylish, nor does it feature a strap to store it on the handle of your rollaboard bag.

Buy: From $160

Briggs & Riley Traveler Backpack

At first glance, your eyes might be caught by this Briggs & Riley backpack. With its boxy corners and flat pockets, it definitely makes a statement.

Then, once you start opening the different pockets, you'll likely be impressed by how much you can fit inside, especially thanks to the 180-degree lie-flat opening that allows unfettered access to every nook and cranny.

The tablet laptop and tablet sleeve are in the same area as the main packing compartment, but it's separated by a zippered inner pocket to keep your clothes all by themselves.

Another nifty feature includes a so-called "PowerPocket" that fits an external battery pack and keeps a charging cable within easy reach for a quick boost of juice while you're on the go.

Style, form and function — this backpack is a winner, and while it isn't the cheapest in the line-up, it also doesn't come with the Tumi or Rimowa price tag.

Buy: From $329

Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus

Sometimes, the simplest solution is actually the best. If you're the type of person who ascribes to the "less is more" philosophy, then Bellroy's Classic Backpack Plus is probably your best bet.

You won't find any complicated zippers or expandable compartments inside, but this bag packs a mighty style punch in a versatile package.

There are two main compartments in the backpack — one for your laptop and another for the rest of your belongings. The front of the bag features a small zip pocket for storing small essentials, and that's basically it. But don't be fooled; the bag sports a 24-liter capacity, so you'll find plenty of room for your gear.

If simplicity is what you're after, then you can't go wrong with Bellroy's flagship backpack.

Buy: From $189

Bottom line

Now that my Away Backpack is really on its last breath, I find myself facing decision anxiety.

There are 10 great choices for a replacement, and I'm torn as to which one to use going forward. I'm personally a big fan of the Rimowa design, but that $1,700 splurge might need to wait until I write my holiday wishlist.

Until then, I'm currently leaning toward a Tumi backpack. After all, there must've been a reason that it was the most-loved business travel backpack in my research.

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• The 18 best places to travel in 2023
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The Best Backpacking Backpacks of 2024

Head into the backcountry with one of the best backpacking backpacks of 2024. From budget-friendly options to ultra-comfortable picks, we’ve got you covered.

Whether you’re going on a short overnight trip or a months-long thru-hike, finding the best backpacking backpack is fundamental to success . It not only needs to hold all your necessary gear, but it should also be comfortable enough that you don’t spend the day fidgeting or thinking about your pack.

The backpacking backpack market is competitive and constantly evolving. For every body type out there, there’s a pack to comfortably carry the essentials hundreds — or thousands — of miles. Your backpack is arguably the most vital element of your backpacking loadout, and can hands down make or break a long journey. It’s important to seriously consider the type of travel you intend to do with your pack, and choose one that will accommodate your needs, intended base weight, and hiking objectives.

Our team has collectively tested hundreds of these stalwart packs for the creation of this guide, with current author Chris Carter having put over 15 different models through grueling tests in the past year alone. He has postholed through hip-deep snow in the alpine, slogged over muggy Appalachian mountains, and plodded across the African savannah with a multitude of different backpacking backpacks to bring you the streamlined selection you see today.

An alumnus of each of the Triple Crown trails in the United States, Chris has worn nearly permanent groves in his shoulders from the perpetual weight of backpack straps. He knows what it’s like to fling your load on the ground in exhaustion at the end of the day, and is constantly sniffing out packs that minimize discomfort over the long haul. Backpacking is inevitably taxing, but a good-fitting, comfortable backpack can minimize the agony.

After loads of research and miles upon miles of rigorous testing, we found the best packs for every use and budget. Because no single pack works for everyone, we’ve broken the list into categories to help you find the perfect fit. And if you need more help deciding, be sure to check out our   comparison table ,  buyer’s guide , and  FAQ  sections at the end of this article.

Editor’s Note: We updated our Backpacking Packs guide on April 2, 2024, to elect the Osprey Exos 58 as our Best Overall choice on the market today, as well as adding the REI Co-op Trailmade 60 as our Best Budget.

• Best Overall Backpacking Pack: Osprey Exos 58
• Best Budget Backpacking Pack: REI Co-op Trailmade 60 Pack
• Best Breathable Backpanel: Gregory Men’s Katmai 55 & Women’s Kalmia 50
• Best Women’s Backpacking Pack: The North Face Women’s Terra 55
• Best Ultralight Backpacking Pack: Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest 40 Pack
• Best Comfort Ultralight Backpacking Pack: ULA Circuit
• Best Heavy-Hauler Backpacking Pack: Gregory Baltoro 75

Osprey Exos 58

• Weight 2 lbs., 13 oz. (S/M); 2 lbs., 15 oz. (L/XL)
• Volume 58 L (S/M); 61 L (L/XL)
• Material 100- and 400-denier high-tenacity recycled nylon (both Bluesign-approved)
• Outside Storage 2 zippered hip belt pockets, 2 dual-access stretch mesh side water bottle pockets, ice axe attachment with bungee tie-off, and stretch mesh front shove-it pocket

• Extremely comfortable for its low weight
• Efficient suspension system 
• Great ventilation
• Some extra features seem gimmicky and unneeded 
• Compression system is somewhat awkward to use and impacts the usability of the hip belt pockets

The Osprey Exos 58L ($260) pack has been a top lightweight pick for long-distance backpackers and weekend hikers for years, and its newest iteration doesn’t disappoint. Offering an extremely well-built, breathable design, the Exos is packed with thoughtful features, but still manages to keep the pack’s overall weight surprisingly low. 

Coming in at almost half the weight of many traditional backpacking bags, and approaching the weight of some frameless, ultralight models, the Exos delivers supreme comfort in a lightweight, simple package. In fact, it’s the reason we supplanted the Exos as the Best Overall in place of the more overbuilt Osprey Aether & Ariel Packs this year — this pack does it all, and at a lower weight.

The Exos uses Osprey’s AirSpeed suspension system, which keeps the pack’s weight off your back, and maximizes ventilation with an alloy frame and a tensioned, breathable-mesh back panel. The beefy, perforated shoulder straps and seamless, layered mesh hip belt contribute to the pack’s comfortable, breathable feel.

The suspension system is quite robust on the Exos, despite its minimal weight, and carries loads of up to 45 pounds pretty well. Beyond that weight, it may feel less comfortable and capable. 

Some additional, helpful features of the pack include a removable lid with an integrated flap protecting gear when the lid is off, Osprey’s Stow-on-the-Go trekking pole attachment system, and ice axe attachments with bungee tie-offs. The new Exos addresses a couple of complaints users had with the older model, adding a simple torso adjustment system, and bringing back the cherished hip belt pockets.

On the hunt for an even lighter option for fast-paced ultralight missions? Osprey recently released its Exos Pro , which is nearly a pound lighter than this cult classic. Read our review of this featherweight feat of engineering in our roundup of the Best Ultralight Backpacks .  

For the weight-conscious adventurer seeking a mega-light setup, without skimping on comfort or moving to a frameless model, this may just be the perfect compromise.

REI Co-op Trailmade 60 Pack

• Weight 3 lbs., 6 oz. (Regular); 3 lbs., 11 oz. (Extended)
• Volume 60 L
• Material Recycled nylon, unspecified denier
• Outside Storage Hipbelt pockets, 1 front shove-it mesh pocket, 2 side water bottle pockets

• Comfortable hip belt with wide range of sizes
• Easy torso adjustment
• Easy on the budget
• Low-angled water bottle pockets
• Relatively small front pocket
• Non-removable lid
• No side mesh pockets

Made to shoulder the weight on your back and not your wallet, the REI Co-op Trailmade 60 Pack ($179) isn’t studded with features or gimmicks, but it carries a full weekend’s kit with ease. And this backpacking pack has just enough attention to detail to keep us plodding happily down trail. If you’re dipping a toe into the activity (or have a whole flock at home to outfit), this pack is for you.

Designed with approachability in mind, there’s no patented tech adorning the Trailmade 60, just a good number of years of REI know-how in what it takes to build a good backpack. Starting with the frame, the pack is surprisingly accommodating, with an adjustable torso that fits 17-21″ torso lengths. That’s backed up by two broad hip belt size ranges — Regular (SM-XL) and Extended (2XL-4XL) — meaning just about anyone should be able to saddle up.

The pack body is a classic top-loading and drawstring-closure design, and ports around a solid 60 liters of space. The separate zippered sleeping bag compartment feels a bit dated, but thankfully the internal divider can be dropped to open up the main compartment to full capacity. There’s also an integrated hydration reservoir sleeve inside, keeping your heavier water weight close to your back where you want it.

The external organization on the Trailmade 60 is fairly spartan, but you still get the classics. You’ll find a large front stuff pocket for things like a rain jacket or tent fly, and two angled water bottle pockets that provide easy access on the go.

Sized up against the REI Co-op Flash 55 , which was recently upgraded, there are a number of reasons you might elect for the hardier build and extra $20 investment. For one, the Flash packs are built with a more durable nylon, which will mean a longer trail life. Slightly more expensive packs pile in a bit more external storage, adding side stuff pockets, and a removable brain. But if you’re saving for lunch, the REI Co-op Trailmade 60 makes the grade in our book.

Read Review: REI Adds Comfort and Ease for Beginner Backpackers: Trailmade 60 Pack Review

Gregory Men’s Katmai 55 & Women’s Kalmia 50

• Weight 4 lbs., 9.8 oz. (S/M); 4 lbs., 10.9 oz. (M/L)
• Volume 55 L
• Material 210-denier 40% recycled nylon/420-denier 45% recycled nylon
• Outside Storage Hipbelt pockets, 1 side mesh pocket, 1 SideWinder water bottle holder that can be put away when not in use, ice axe/trekking pole attachments, front shove-it pocket, large zippered front pocket with mesh divider

• Extremely breathable
• Comfortable design carries heavy loads well
• On the heavier side
• Only one side mesh pocket

The Gregory Katmai 55 / Kalmia 50 ($290) is a comfort-first backpack with well-padded straps and belt, as well as a suspension system that adjusts to your natural movement when walking, especially under load. Flex panels and rotating shoulder straps move independently with the shoulders and waist while walking.

With its FreeFloat 360 ventilated back panel, it almost eliminates the inescapable problem of lower back sweat. Gregory even added Polygiene odor treatment to the moisture-wicking back panel, so if you do sweat through it, your pack will stay smelling fresh.

The Katmai has side and bottom access zips to the storage for quick access, which also help you see inside more of the bag. That’s a bit of a love/hate feature, but we leaned toward love. The lid has a large zippered pocket on the top and a smaller one inside for stashing valuables away from the elements.

A large, shallow, front compartment makes a good place to store meal packets, maps, or guidebooks, and is covered by a stretchy mesh pocket for a layer. Additionally, it has long-trip essentials you’d expect, such as a hydration sleeve with a hanger, trekking pole loops, and a sleeping bag compartment.

The shoulder harness and hipbelt are easy to adjust and stay in place. It has an adjustable steel alloy internal frame, ranging from 18 to 22 inches in the M/L size (15-19 inches for the S/M).

If weight isn’t your biggest concern and you’re looking to maximize comfort on the trail, the Gregory Katmai 55 / Kalmia 50 could be a great addition to your arsenal.

The North Face Women’s Terra 55

• Weight 3 lbs., 9 oz. (XS/S); 3 lbs., 12 oz. (M/L)
• Material 210D nylon with DWR finish, 600D polyester bottom
• Outside Storage 2 zippered hipbelt pockets, 2 dual-access stretch mesh side water bottle pockets, and front shove-it pocket

• Unique Dyno Lift load lifters help achieve an optimum fit
• Comfortable, female-specific features

The updated women’s The North Face Terra 55 ($179) is a comfortable, affordable pack catered toward the novice hiker breaking into longer trips, or the dedicated backpacker on a budget. The women’s model has subtle female-specific tweaks, such as ergonomic shoulder straps and torso length.

In terms of durability, the Terra 55 backpack is built to last. The outer shell is made from tough 210D nylon DWR fabric that can withstand wear and tear, while the zippers and buckles are crafted with high-quality materials that are designed to go the distance.

A few standout additions give this pack a unique flair. Firstly, the front J-zip affords swift access to inside contents, without adding unnecessary weight by opening the entire front of the pack. Small features here and there, such as the OptiFit suspension system and cozy molded hipbelt, contribute to the pack’s useability, but the singular Dyno Lift load lifters take the cake as the most impressive.

Our tester has never seen something like this on a backpack before. An adjustable locking clasp on the right shoulder strap secures one end of the load lifter, which runs through some webbing behind the frame, and attaches to the other strap. The load lifter can move freely around the frame, and is therefore self-equalizing.

No more trying to perfectly adjust the left and right lifters to be the same size — this does it for you. And, if you need the shoulder straps cinched closer to the frame, simply pull the right strap through the clasp. This ingenious design is truly a game changer for snagging a comfortable fit on the go.

At 3 pounds, 12 ounces (for a M/L), this isn’t the lightest, most streamlined pack on the market. We feel some weight could be shaved off, but the thoughtful additions do make it a wonder to haul heavy loads with.

Overall, the women’s The North Face Terra 55 backpack is an excellent female-specific option for hikers seeking a reliable, comfortable, and functional backpack for extended outdoor adventures. If you’re scoping out an approachable pack for your first big trip, or just need a well-designed budget model to add to your arsenal, this could be a solid option.

Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest 40 Pack

• Weight 1 lb., 14 oz.
• Volume 40 L
• Material Dyneema: White (DCH50 – main body, DCH150 – bottom); Black (DCH150 – main body and bottom)
• Outside Storage 2 side pockets, 2 zippered hipbelt pockets, ice axe attachment, front shove-it pocket

• Quite durable given its ultralight construction
• Stable and comfortable compared to other ultralight models
• Side and front external pockets have drain holes and reinforced bottoms
• Minimal features
• Center ice axe loop can be awkward to use, as there is no higher attachment for the shaft

For an ultralight pack, the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest 40 Pack ($349) strikes a rare balance between comfort, weight, and durability, making this our top pick for an ultralight setup. This pack is built almost entirely from Dyneema — a super strong and incredibly light material.

Although Hyperlite makes similar packs with larger capacities, many users prefer the 40L size of the 2400 Southwest Pack, which weighs in at a featherlight 1 pound, 14 ounces.

Most ultralight backpacks simply are not as stable or comfortable as heavier packs. The Southwest Pack manages to break the mold. Even with a full load, this pack is quite enjoyable to hike with.

A ¼-inch back panel pad adds significant cushioning that prevents the pack’s contents from poking into the user’s back. Structural support comes from removable aluminum stays, which help distribute the pack’s weight evenly across the user’s body.

Like most ultralight gear, this pack is minimalist and basic in its tube-like design. Aside from the main compartment, the pack features three exterior pockets and two zippered hipbelt pockets.

The roll-top system seals with a Velcro closure and fastens to the pack’s sides with buckles. Apart from a simple hydration bladder sleeve, there are no internal zippered pockets or organizational features.

In addition to various size options, the Southwest Pack is also available in two different Dyneema fabrics. The 50-denier version is white, while the 150-denier version is black and costs $20 more. Most users report great durability, even with the thinner version.

For the ultralight backpacker looking for a pack that will survive the rigors of a thru-hike and beyond, it doesn’t get much better than the 2400 Southwest Pack.

ULA Circuit

• Weight 2 lbs., 4.4 oz.
• Volume 68 L
• Material ULA 400-denier Robic
• Outside Storage 2 zippered hipbelt pockets, 2 adjustable side water bottle pockets, front shove-it pocket, ice axe/trekking pole attachments

• High carrying capacity given its low weight
• Extremely comfortable as an ultralight pack
• On the heavier side of ultralight packs
• Somewhat limiting side pocket design

ULA Equipment has some big-time fans in the world of thru-hiking. The company has rightfully earned its reputation for comfort and durability the hard way — on the backs of thru-hikers over thousands of collective miles.

If this USA-made cottage brand had a flagship pack, it would probably be the Circuit ($280). A top choice for the PCT and other thru-hikes, the Circuit falls into that versatile size of 4,200 cubic inches (68 L).

Weighing in at just 41 ounces, the Circuit can still handle loads up to 35 pounds, making this pack a go-to choice for the weekend hike with a bear bin and fishing pole, or a summer-long adventure on the Pacific Crest Trail.

For its versatility, consumers absolutely love this pack. Recommended for a base weight of 15 pounds or less (up to 35 pounds total load), the Circuit carries weight with a remarkable 1.2-ounce carbon fiber and Delrin suspension hoop in conjunction with a dense internal foam frame and a single aluminum stay.

It provides modest organization with the main body, a front mesh pocket, left and right side mesh pockets, an extension collar, and left and right hip belt pockets. ROBIC fabric provides a durable but very light foundation for this pack. If you’re considering an ultralight backpack for your next adventure, don’t look past the ULA Equipment Circuit .

Gregory Baltoro 75

• Weight 4 lbs., 13.2 oz.
• Volume 75 L 
• Material  210D Honeycomb Cryptorip HD/210D high-tenacity nylon (body), 630D high-density nylon (bottom), 135D high-density embossed polyester (lining)
• Outside Storage 2 zippered hip belt pockets, 1 stretch mesh side pocket, 1 SideWinder bottle holster that tucks away when not in use, dual front zippered pockets, front shove-it pocket

• Solid suspension system that balances heavy loads well
• Durable fabric
• Comfortable cushion on the hipbelts and shoulder straps
• Quite heavy at nearly 5 pounds
• Tall side pockets can be difficult to access when pack is loaded

Want to carry an entire base camp on your back? Well, look no further. Loaded with days of camping gear, multiple tents, a full trad climbing rack, and two ropes, we recently took the Gregory Baltoro 75 ($360) on a serious test drive in the Appalachian Mountains. As much as a pack weighing 60 pounds can float behind you … this one floated.

True to their reputation, Gregory carries on the Baltoro’s legacy with the newest iteration of this crowd-favorite beast. Super stable, cushioned to the max, with a solid suspension system, this pack bears massive loads with about as much ease as you could ask for.

The Baltoro has always distributed heavy loads evenly. The full-perimeter metal frame and compression straps offer phenomenal structure and work well with its 3D Air hip belt and shoulder straps that rotate to your body’s geometry for a dialed-in fit. This allows the pack to move with you without feeling sloppy and unbalanced. A layered, breathable back panel with multi-density foam affords stellar breathability on sweaty missions.

Often we’ll read jargon like that in a specs list and pass it off as marketing nonsense, but this system genuinely delivers as promised in a way we haven’t seen on many other packs.

This is undeniably a clunker of a 5-pound bag, with more straps, cinches, zippers, and buckles than we’d like to count, so if lightweight minimalism is what you’re after you should look elsewhere. It can get overwhelming at times, but without all the extras it wouldn’t be the workhorse it is. We have some concerns about the tall side pockets that flank the pack. When it is full these are difficult to access and make grabbing stuff on the go quite a chore.

All in all, Gregory’s flagship Baltoro remains one of the most reliable heavy-haulers on the market. If you need to carry everything imaginable without breaking your back, this could be the perfect choice.

Osprey Aether & Ariel 55

• Weight 4 lbs., 13.2 oz. (S/M); 4 lbs., 13.9 oz. (M/L)
• Material 420HD nylon packcloth, 210-denier nylon Diamond (Bluesign-approved)
• Outside Storage 2 zippered hipbelt pockets, 2 dual-access stretch mesh side water bottle pockets, ice axe attachments, and fabric-reinforced front shove-it pocket

• Customizable sizing
• Extremely durable
• Lots of options for outside storage
• Not a lot of upper-body mobility

The Osprey Aether and Ariel 55 ($300) are recently updated versions of two of Osprey’s bestselling styles. Packed with features and thoroughly well-designed, the functionality and comfort of the Aether and Ariel make them our first choices for the best backpacking packs.

Although these packs are classic-style top-loaders, a large front zippered access point allows you to get into the depths of your gear without having to fully unpack. For heavy loads, the burly materials and easy, on-the-go adjustability make the Aether and Ariel strong and reliable carriers.

We like that Osprey has combined some tried-and-true backpack design elements with clever and innovative features of its own creation. For quick access to bits of essential gear, these packs offer dual-zippered hip belt pockets, stretch-mesh water bottle pockets, and a front “shove-it” pocket.

This pack offers the ability to fine-tune the fit for a variety of different shapes and sizes, including an adjustable torso length, as well as Osprey’s Fit-on-the-Fly hipbelt and shoulder straps.

Other noteworthy features include an internal hydration bladder sleeve, dual ice axe loops, and a versatile compression system that offers additional exterior storage.

Although Osprey also makes a 65L version of the Aether and Ariel , we like the 55L version for its compact profile and slightly reduced weight. For long weekend trips, these packs will offer plenty of space for most users.

They can also handle longer trips with some thoughtful packing. Yes, the Aether and Ariel are heavier than many other packs of their size, but they are ultrareliable and feel stable and balanced on the trail. If you’re looking for a burly, reliable pack that will last for years, this may be the perfect fit.

Read Review: Osprey Aether 55 and Ariel 55: The Cadillac of Backpacks

REI Co-op Flash 55

• Weight 2 lbs., 12 oz.
• Material 100-denier ripstop nylon main body; 210-denier nylon bottom
• Outside Storage Removable hipbelt pockets, 2 side water bottle pockets, 2 larger side mesh pockets, ice axe attachments, breathable mesh front pocket

• Lightweight
• Inexpensive
• Easy to customize
• Not quite as durable as other models
• Doesn’t carry heavy loads as well as other models

REI has been selling backpacking gear for decades. The recently updated REI Co-op Flash 55 ($199) is extremely popular, and for good reason. This pack is lightweight, highly customizable, and quite capable of the handling rugged demands of multi-day backpacking.

The Flash 55 is a modular pack, and various features can be added or removed to increase storage or shed weight. With all the organizational features included, this pack weighs around 2 pounds, 12 ounces.

By removing all of the modular features, the user can reduce the total weight by almost half a pound. Importantly, removing these features does not affect the Flash’s suspension system or carrying comfort.

At the top entry point of the main compartment, a roll-top, dry bag-esque closure system helps keep the pack compressed and the contents dry. Thanks to this roll-top, users can also choose to leave the pack’s top lid behind if desired.

Other useful features include a front mesh pocket, hydration bladder compatibility, and an ice axe attachment loop. The newest iteration features a beefier daisy chain with multiple attachment loops for more exterior lashing options.

For a backpacking pack, the REI Co-op Flash’s 100-denier ripstop nylon body feels thin and potentially fragile. Although this pack doesn’t seem to wear or tear faster than other packs in its class, users should avoid rubbing the sides of the pack against rock and rough surfaces. On the bottom of the pack, burly 210-denier nylon offers supreme protection from the ground.

At $199, the Flash 55 is one of the best values on the backpacking market. If you’re looking for a reliable, durable pack that won’t break the bank, this could be the bag for you.

Read Review: REI Flash 55 Pack Review: Lightweight for Long Hauls

Deuter Aircontact Ultra

• Weight 2 lbs., 11 oz.
• Volume 50L or 55L
• Material 200 D ripstop polyamide
• Outside Storage 2 side pockets, 2 zippered mesh hip-belt pockets, front mesh shove-it pocket

• Fully featured
• Superior suspension system
• Not quite as breathable as other models
• Doesn't carry heavy loads quite as well as other packs

The streamlined and simple Deuter Aircontact Ultra ($250) delivers exceptional carrying comfort with a surprisingly lightweight and thoughtfully featured design. This pack is catered toward the thru-hiking crowd who may want a similar weight to ultralight packs, but are still looking for the comfort and support of traditional backpacking bags.

After extensively testing both the regular 50+5L and women’s-specific 45+5L SL versions, we can confidently say we would trust, and enjoy, taking this on a long journey across the country. It carries loads as comfortably and evenly as the best of them.

Tipping the scales at a relatively scant 2.6 pounds, it just sneaks in under the weight of the comparable Osprey Exos, though the weight savings make it a little less breathable. Its back panel still offers competitive ventilation. Deuter’s Aircontact back system has a suspension design that is easily adjusted to meet various torso lengths.

Two small carabiners are accessed via a Velcro flap near the brain of the pack, and can be clipped to three different loops, raising or lowering the shoulder straps. This helps to absorb jostling and contributes to a smooth ride as you bounce down the trail.

Despite its light weight, the Aircontact Ultra carries loads incredibly well, and distributes weight to the hips with an ultralight elastic spring steel frame. The shoulder straps and hip belt have adequate padding for base weights most thru-hikers would be toting, but once you start seriously loading it up we found ourselves wishing for a little more cushion. We loved the ergonomically shaped Active Fit shoulder straps, though, and felt completely comfortable with kits up to around 45 pounds.

This pack would be perfect for the long-distance hiker looking to dip into the ultralight scene without compromising on top-shelf comfort, durability, and function. The Aircontact Ultra   is a lightweight, cozy ride that offers plenty of features to make a grueling, multi-month trek as pleasurable as possible.

Granite Gear Blaze 60

• Weight 3 lbs.
• Material 100-denier ROBIC high-tenacity nylon with Barrier DWR (main body); 210-denier ROBIC UHMWPE (Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene) triple ripstop nylon (reinforcements)
• Outside Storage 2 side pockets, 2 zippered hipbelt pockets, front mesh stash pocket, ice axe attachments

• Lightweight for its carrying capacity
• Well-ventilated
• Carries heavy loads comfortably
• Takes some time to figure out how to adjust shoulder straps and hipbelt

The Granite Gear Blaze 60 ($300) is a lightweight pack that can easily carry heavy-duty loads. It’s difficult to find a pack that remains comfortable even when fully weighed down with a week’s worth of gear, but with tons of classic and innovative features and pockets, the Blaze 60 is one of the true gems of the backpack market.

At 3 pounds, this pack is slightly lighter than average for its capacity. Although it performs well across the board, the most striking characteristic of the Blaze 60 is its phenomenal suspension system.

No matter what you need to carry, this pack will handle it with stability and grace. The internal frame that enables the pack’s stability is designed with effective airflow channels that help keep your back cool. Of all the packs with breathable back panels out there, the Blaze 60 stands out.

The shoulder and hip straps are mesh-free and tend to feel a bit sweaty. This pack features durable material in high-wear zones, and it saves weight with thinner fabric in areas of less concern.

The ROBIC fabric that covers much of the pack’s body is both light and tear-resistant. For backpackers who plan to carry full and heavy loads but don’t want an ultra-bulky pack, the Blaze 60 is a top pick.

Zpacks Arc Blast 55

• Weight 1 lb., 5.3 oz.
• Material 3.1 oz./sq. yd. Dyneema Composite Fabric
• Outside storage 2 side pockets sized to fit 1L or 1.5L water bottles, front mesh shove-it pocket

• Water-resistant
• Lightweight frame
• No hip belt pockets
• Front mesh pocket is not very stretchable

The Zpacks Arc Blast 55 ($375) was made specifically for the ultralight backpacking crowd. At just 1 pound, 5.3 ounces, it really doesn’t get any lighter than this for a pack with 55 L of storage.

In just about every way, this is a minimalist piece of gear. Mesh-free hip and shoulder straps are simple and thinly padded, and the hip straps do not have pockets.

Few external pockets exist on the entire pack, although it does have ice axe loops and trekking pole holders. Simply put, this is not the pack to buy if you are looking for robust padding and maximum extra features.

Instead, what you get with the Arc Blast is a world-class tool for fast and light backpacking. Although it is rated to carry upward of 30 pounds, this pack really shines with sub-25-pound loads.

The five-piece carbon frame is integrated into the pack itself, and we do not recommend trying to remove it. The user can shape the frame to create a gap of airflow between your body and the back panel, and a rectangle of mesh further helps keep your back distanced from the body of the pack.

The Dyneema fabric of the Arc Blast’s body is super-lightweight, water-resistant, and abrasion-resistant. A Velcro roll-top closure keeps water out — even in gnarly storms.

Because this pack is specialized and expensive, we don’t recommend it to beginner backpackers or casual weekend hikers. Instead, this is a minimalist tool that is best suited for a light and fast thru-hiking mission or alpine traverse.

Helly Hansen Resistor 45L & Capacitor 65L Packs

• Weight 3 lbs., 4 oz. (Resistor); 4 lbs., 3 oz. (Capacitor)
• Volume 45 L (Resistor); 65 L (Capacitor)
• Material 100% polyamide with a polyurethane coating
• Outside Storage 2 side pockets, 2 zippered hipbelt pockets, ice axe attachments, front shove-it pocket, small front zippered pocket

• Good ventilation
• Comfortable padding
• Recco transponder

The Helly Hansen Resistor ($230) and Capacitor ($300) backpacks share many aesthetic and functional characteristics. The smaller Resistor is an excellent compact option for quick and light trips, while the larger Capacitor can easily handle long multiday expeditions in the mountains.

While Helly Hansen is a long-established maker of high-quality alpine outerwear, the Resistor and Capacitor are relatively new additions to the brand’s lineup. Both styles have a large top-loading main compartment, hydration compatibility, and a floating top lid with zippered pockets.

At the top of the main compartment, extendable collars provide versatile options for expanding the internal capacity and protecting the contents from the elements. The updated packs are now also fitted with Recco Transponders , which reflect directional radar signals that can be detected by rescuers in the case of an emergency.

We recently took the newest Capacitor on a mountaineering trip with Helly Hansen in the North Cascades. Hauling days of food and gear for our basecamp up near vertical, washed-out trails was a comfortable cinch with this hardworking beast, and the suspension system kept us about as comfortable as one can be. Dual ice-axe loops allowed for easy transport of our alpine climbing gear. The large front zippered compartment is made of tough material, and was perfectly sized for our spiky crampons.

Both the Resistor and the Capacitor include an adjustable back panel and customizable torso length. And 3D mesh across the entire back panel helps keep your back cool and ventilated while hiking. A thickly padded hip strap also comes equipped with a breathable mesh lining.

While these nice-looking and highly capable packs aren’t especially light, they are reliable workhorses that will perform exactly as a good backpack should. If a durable, compact pack is on your wish list, the Resistor or Capacitor would be a perfect option.

Osprey Rook 65

• Weight 3 lbs., 8.3 oz.
• Volume 65 L
• Material 600-denier polyester (main), 450-denier polyester (accent), 1000-denier nylon packcloth (bottom)
• Outside Storage 2 zippered hipbelt pockets, 2 dual-access stretch mesh side water bottle pockets

• Relatively lightweight given its durable design
• Not as comfortable as other models
• No front shove-it pocket

In the spirit of affordable minimalism, Osprey has delivered a modest, durable, and relatively functional pack with the Rook 65 ($190). While it will get you from point A to point B, it doesn’t perform quite as well as others we’ve tested, and though it is lighter than a lot of other models in this size range, it seems to be pretty heavy given its lack of features. If basic function that’s easy on the wallet is what you are after, the Rook could be a great match.

Costing only $180, this pack’s value is really where it shines the most. While it lacks some of the comfort and technology of Osprey’s other models, it is undeniably durable, and is on the lighter end of the spectrum given its slimmed-down design.

At that price point, it could be hard to find a pack that will hold up to the wear and tear of the trail like the Rook will. Additionally, it still does offer some of the great features we have grown to love in Osprey’s other packs, such as impressive ventilation, adjustable torso sizing, and solid suspension. Compared to other models, the Rook doesn’t carry loads quite as well, but you can’t ask for too much when paying significantly less.

The comfort of this pack is what could use the most improvement. The shoulder straps, while ergonomically shaped, don’t offer quite enough padding for loads over 40 pounds, and carrying comfort seemed to diminish significantly after around 35 pounds.

For lighter loads, however, the suspension system worked well, and we felt like the hipbelt was adequately comfortable. Though it doesn’t boast all the bells and whistles of other packs, it gives you essential features such as compression straps on the side, two dual-access water bottle pockets, and hipbelt pockets.

As a durable, affordable backpack, the Osprey Rook 65 would be great for the adventurer on a budget looking for a reliable and functional workhorse for long missions in the mountains.

Deuter Aircontact Core

• Weight 4 lbs., 11.8 oz.
• Volume 70 L 
• Material  500D Textured Polyamide
• Outside Storage 2 zippered hipbelt pockets, 2 stretch mesh side water bottle pockets, front mesh shove-it pocket

• Relatively heavy at nearly 5 pounds
• Tall side pockets can be difficult to access when the pack is loaded

The Deuter Aircontact Core ($250) is the brand’s newest premium backpacking bag, drawing from years of innovation and successful products like the older Aircontact Lite, so we were pretty stoked to take it for a whirl. Right out of the box, it looks sleek. The 500-denier textured polyamide fabric is durable and smooth, and just looks top-notch.

The Aircontact back system, pairing breathable mesh with a large ventilation channel, works well with Deuter’s Active Fit shoulder straps that allow the pack to move with you, without feeling too wobbly or unbalanced. If you fill it out entirely the pack does stick up pretty high above your head. We found ourselves wishing the load lifters were placed a little higher, as the pack became slightly unwieldy when maxed out. Not horribly, though.

We love the J-shaped zipper on the front of the pack as this still gives you duffel-style access to your gear without adding unnecessary weight by having the zipper open the entire front panel. They did, however, add a zipper inside to open the fabric that separates the sleeping bag compartment at the bottom of the pack, which we feel could be swapped with another method to reduce some weight.

This thing is undeniably comfy and maintains a relatively competitive low weight despite all the extra features and volume. It carries heavy weight well, and expands to accommodate seriously large loads. Their Vari-Slide customizable back system is a quick, well-designed solution to fine-tune the pack’s fit while on the go, and is much more simple than some of its competition. This is a cherished feature for sure.

In short, the new Aircontact Core carries the torch of Deuter’s reputation for cranking out reliable, stellar backpacks for any adventure you could find yourself in. While not the lightest pack on the market, it definitely isn’t the heaviest, and the added features contribute well to its overall useability, without adding unnecessary weight.

Backpacking Backpack Comparison Chart

How We Tested Backpacking Backpacks

The GearJunkie team is made up of all sorts of backpackers. From weekend warriors to seasoned thru-hikers, we’ve collectively spent many years on the trail.

Staff writer Austin Beck-Doss has clocked countless miles under the weight of bulging backpacking backpacks. A prolific rock climber, hiker, and all-around outdoorsman, he knows the value of a cozy pack for schlepping heinous loads to the far-flung corners of the world. He led the charge with this guide, accruing our initial selection of nine packs in May 2021.

Chris Carter took over this guide in August 2022. He has significant experience putting various backpacks through torture and torment, having thru-hiked the Triple Crown of long trails in America: the Pacific Crest Trail, the Continental Divide Trail, and the Appalachian Trail. He’s navigated the sinking sadness of a mid-hike pack failure, and knows the importance of choosing a model that fits your needs, and will last the distance.

This list of product recommendations above results from thorough field testing. When testing packs, we pay careful attention to ease of use, long-term durability, comfort, and overall value. Impressive-sounding features might look good on paper, but they don’t always translate to actual performance. Our testing aims to determine a pack’s true utility.

Every year, design updates and new products roll out across the market. We make sure to keep our finger on the pulse of the backpacking world and test out any new style that has the potential to be great. This list of recommendations is always in flux — and it represents the best of the best at any given time.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose a Backpacking Pack

Purchasing a backpacking backpack — especially for the first time — can be a challenging process to navigate. Reliable gear is the foundation of a successful backpacking trip, and a good pack may be the most important item in your whole kit.

While hiking, the ideal pack should feel balanced and comfortable. In camp, a well-designed pack helps keep your systems organized and efficient.

In this how-to-choose guide, we will go over all of the important considerations that will help you choose the right pack. Everything from padding and water protection to sizing and capacity is explained here in detail. By the end, we hope that you’ll feel confident about choosing the perfect pack to support your backpacking adventures.

Pack Sizing

When deciding which pack size is right for you, you’ll need to complete a few quick self-measurements. Because torso size can be very different even for two people of the same height, you should not choose your pack size simply because you are tall or short. Instead, you’ll want to determine your torso and waist measurements.

Torso measurement is the most important factor for pack sizing. To figure out yours, you’ll need a friend and a cloth tape measure. If you don’t have one, a length of rope or string and a measuring stick will also work.

Begin by resting your chin against your chest and have another person locate your C7 vertebra at the base of your neck (it’s the one that tends to protrude more than the others). Place your hands on your hips so that your hands are sitting on top of your hip bones and your thumbs are pressed against your lower back.

Ask your friend to measure the length between your C7 vertebra and the center point of your spine at the level of your thumbs. This distance is your torso measurement.

Your waist size is the circumference of your waist at your iliac crest, which is the highest point of your hip bones. The middle of your backpacking hip straps should be positioned directly on top of your iliac crest. While hiking, 80% of your load should be carried by the hips and lower body, so it is essential that your hip straps fit properly.

If you are unable to find a pack that fits both your torso and hip measurements, you will likely be able to find one with replaceable hip straps. Some packs are more adjustable than others, and it is certainly a good idea to try a pack and ensure that it properly fits before purchasing.

Backpacking packs come in many different sizes and capacities. When deciding the best pack capacity for you, there are several factors worth considering. For longer trips with multiple overnights, you’ll need more space to pack the appropriate kit.

In cold weather, you’ll need more space for clothing and warm sleeping gear. Food and water are also important considerations. If you need to carry several days’ worth of food and/or water, you’ll need to be sure that your pack can handle it.

The most common length of a backpacking trip is 2 to 3 days. For these short trips, a pack between 50 L and 70 L will likely provide enough capacity for most people.

On a single overnight trip, a smaller pack of around 35-40 L may be sufficient. For extended trips over 3 days long, you’ll want a larger pack that holds at least 60 L — especially in cold weather.

Pack Weight

Contemporary backpacking packs are designed to be both lightweight and capable of carrying heavy loads. Most packs come with a recommended range of how much weight they can hold. Pack features that contribute to weight capacity include the frame, suspension system, and padding.

When these features become more robust, maximum load capacity increases. For this reason, bulkier packs tend to be best for carrying the heaviest loads. Still, many modern options, such as the ULA Circuit, stand out as impressive haulers even though their baseline weight is relatively low.

Some manufacturers provide load ratings for their packs. It is a good idea to estimate the total weight of the loads you plan to carry before purchasing a pack.

Suspension is a system of frames, hip belts, straps, load lifters, and harnesses that keep you securely connected to your pack. Overall, a pack’s suspension system transfers the weight of your gear onto the appropriate structures of the human body.

If fitted properly, a good suspension system allows the wearer to move freely and maintain a natural sense of balance while hauling the pack. Effective suspension relies on a combination of fit and design to maximize comfort and efficiency while hiking.

Different pack manufacturers utilize slightly different suspension features. Generally, your pack should be carried by the structure of your hip bones and the strength of your legs and lower body.

The remaining weight should be transferred between your chest, shoulders, and other parts of the upper body. Fitting your pack properly is all about fine-tuning the suspension system.

Breathability

Because your pack will be in direct contact with your body during strenuous physical exercise, it’s important that it breathes properly. Without sufficient breathability, you are likely to sweat uncomfortably and potentially overheat while hiking with your pack.

The two primary areas of a pack that should have effective ventilation are the back panel and the hip straps. Your back panel conforms to your back, and there should not be too much negative space between the panel’s surface and your back. Some contemporary packs feature a fully suspended mesh back panel that maintains airflow along the length of the back.

Other packs simply utilize a pattern of offset mesh and foam panels to create channels of airflow across the surface of the wearer’s back. Generally, suspended mesh back panels will allow for more ventilation than the offset mesh/foam styles.

Hip straps should also be designed to allow for breathability and airflow. Excessive sweating beneath a hip strap can lead to discomfort and blisters.

Organization

Not all backpackers have the same organizational preferences. There are many ways to organize a pack, and certain styles will be better suited to certain users based on these preferences.

Traditional backpacks use what is called a top-lid closure, which usually consists of a large opening that cinches closed, covered by a brain. Rolltop bags, on the other hand, are streamlined, no-frills backpacks that close like a dry bag on top, though usually aren’t entirely waterproof.

The rolltop system, used on wildly popular packs such as Hyperlite’s Southwest 40 , has become a super common design on ultralight models, as it makes it easy to eliminate unneeded backpack volume by rolling up the excess fabric.

This is especially helpful for thru-hikers whose pack volume tends to vary significantly over the course of a 5-month excursion through different climates and environments, or even between town stops. These also help compress the pack’s contents for a less bulky, more compact load. Something thru-hikers are always after.

Main Compartment

The main compartment of a backpack is the largest storage space. Some backpackers prefer a simple pack that doesn’t have more than a giant singular main compartment (such as many rolltop models), and others prefer packs with lots of separate pockets and pouches. Usually, the main compartment is where your bulky and heavy items will go, including a tent, sleeping bag, and clothes.

Nearly all backpacks have a large opening at the top where users can access the main compartment. Some packs, such as the Osprey Aether & Ariel 55 , have additional entry points into the main compartment, allowing users to access items within the pack without removing everything on top.

Hipbelt Pockets

Many packs include some small pockets integrated directly into the hip belt. These are convenient places to store items that you will want to access without removing your pack, like lip balm, granola bars, or a GPS device.

Top Lid Pockets

A pack’s top lid usually sits above the main compartment access point. Zippered top lid pockets are a good place for lightweight items that you will want to easily access, including a headlamp , rain layers, or a lightweight puffy jacket .

In most cases, you’ll need to remove your pack to access the top lid pockets, or you can always ask your hiking buddy to help you out.

Hydration Pocket

Some packs come with an integrated hydration pocket. Typically, a hydration pocket is a sleeve-like space where a water bladder or hydration pouch will fit easily and stay out of the way of your other gear.

A thoughtfully designed pack will also have a simple way to secure and access a water bladder drinking tube. If you prefer to drink out of bottles while hiking, look for a pack with exterior water bottle holders for easy access.

Compression Straps

Compression straps help compress and condense the load in your pack and keep the bulk of the pack’s weight close to your body. Without properly tightened compression straps, a pack can swing and sway while hiking, which can throw off your balance and cause discomfort or fatigue.

Each time you put on your pack, cinch the compression straps to ensure a stable and comfortable load. Smaller items can also be clipped to or stored underneath the straps for easy on-the-go access.

Compression straps really only make sense on backpacks with frames, as they serve to pull the load into the frame to hug it closer to your back. Frameless packs, like many ultralight models, may have straps on the side, but those are generally only used for lashing things to your pack, like trekking or tent poles. They can serve to snug the load in a bit to prevent it from swaying around, but they won’t provide the same advantage as straps on a fully framed pack.

Rain Protection

When backpacking, you’ll need to be prepared to keep your kit dry in case of rain. Many backpacking packs come with a rain cover, which is usually a form-fitting piece of waterproof nylon with an elastic perimeter. The cover should fit over your entire pack and cinch securely in place.

When not in use, the rain cover can be stored in an accessible place such as the pack’s top lid pocket. Certain styles also have fully integrated rain covers that are sewn or stitched directly into the pack.

Many backpackers prefer to use a waterproof pack liner instead of (or in addition to) a rain cover, as a rain cover leaves the back of the pack open to water seeping through to the gear inside. This method works best with backpacks with only one big, main compartment.

This is the best, and cheapest, way to ensure that your gear stays completely dry. And you don’t have to waste time desperately fitting a rain cover over your pack as a freak storm sweeps in, as the inside contents are already protected.

While you can just opt to use a burly trash bag, many manufacturers have come up with more durable, backpacking-specific pack liners that are designed to last for months.

The two most popular waterproof pack liners are Nylofume bags, such as this one sold by Waymark Gear, and polyethylene bags, such as this one sold by Gossamer Gear. Both of these options are extremely durable alternatives to trash bags or rain covers, and also help serve as odor barriers when tied off securely at the top. One Nylofume liner from Waymark kept our tester’s gear bone dry for an entire 3-month thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail, a journey that wasn’t lacking in heinous storms and constant drizzle.

You usually see backpacking packs utilizing one of two types of fabric: Dyneema composite (DCF) or some form of solid ripstop nylon. The tougher the fabric, the more durable it is likely to be, but often at the cost of increased weight. Packs like the Osprey Rook boast stellar 600- and 1,000-denier nylon packcloth, and could be carried into battle.

On the other end of the spectrum, ultralight models such as the Zpacks Arc Blast use abrasion-resistant Dyneema, but need to be babied a bit more and are catered for hikers sticking to on-trail travel with minimal bush bashing. Generally, DCF is lighter and repels water better, but comes at a higher price point.

Ultralight Backpacking Packs

Some backpackers prefer to shed weight from their kit by just about any means necessary. Because packs are one of the heaviest items in a backpacking kit, the ultralight crowd has developed and popularized a range of super-lightweight backpacking packs .

Though it sounds great to reduce weight and feel lighter on the trail, ultralight packs certainly do come with some drawbacks. Most of these models have reduced storage space, minimal padding, and a less substantial frame. As long as you keep your base weight to a minimum, this isn’t a problem. But, if you tend to go over 15-20 pounds with your base weight, a sturdier, more supportive pack is probably the move.

Also, an ultralight pack’s general construction is thinner and less robust. This keeps weight to a minimum, but results in a significant decrease in durability. Still, for those who are all about going light and fast — and don’t plan on doing a lot of bush-whacking — ultralight packs are a viable option.

Packing Your Backpack

Though backpacks vary in design and construction, there are a few reliable methods of efficiently packing any backpack that will maximize comfort and load distribution on your forays into the mountains. A well-packed bag will feel a lot lighter than a poorly-packed bag. And it will help reduce stress and discomfort over the long haul.

Starting at the bottom of the pack, it’s a good idea to pack lighter, fluffier items such as a sleeping bag . This creates something of a pillow on your lumbar, on top of which the heavier items can sit.

Additionally, you probably won’t be needing your sleeping bag until the end of the day when you are setting up camp, so there is no problem with shoving it to the bottom.

On this same note, it’s helpful to put the other elements of your sleep system, such as a sleeping bag liner and sleeping pad , in the bottom of the pack. These items are also relatively lightweight and won’t be needed throughout the day.

Next, you want to pack the middle section of the bag, which will house the heaviest items in your kit. You want to pack this gear (such as your food bag, cooking system , and backpacking tent ) as close to your back as possible.

By putting these items in the middle of your back, you alleviate a significant amount of stress from your shoulders or lower back. You can also use spare clothes that you probably won’t need throughout the day to fill in the gaps between these items. This will keep them from shifting around while you are hiking, and help prevent irregular items from poking you uncomfortably as you plod along.

Finally, at the top of your bag, you want to pack lighter items that you may want to use throughout the day, such as a midlayer or rain jacket . Once the main compartment is filled, you can put smaller items that you may want to easily access in the outside compartments of the pack. This could include a headlamp, first-aid kit, or maps.

While packing your bag, you want to think of what you’ll need throughout the day, how the weight is distributed, and if you can quickly protect all of your gear from sudden changes in weather.

If you use a rain cover as your primary protection, every pocket will be protected. But, if you rely on a pack liner, you need to make sure that the items in external storage are in additional waterproof containers or dry bags.

For more information about how to pack a backpacking pack, check out our complete guide on how to pack a backpack .

Backpacking packs vary in price and value. High-quality options range from around $200 to well over $500. More expensive packs may include higher quality materials or extra features, but sometimes simpler is better when weight is the biggest concern.

With ultralight backpacking rising in popularity, and lightweight, durable packs coming out to match the demand, the comfort-to-weight ratio is a big deciding factor for many backpackers. The Osprey Aether & Ariel 55 are loaded with features and are extremely durable.

However, many hikers would opt for the more fragile, simpler Zpacks Arc Blast 55 as a lightweight alternative for fast missions in the mountains, even though it may not last as long as the Osprey.

As you think about which pack to get, consider what you need it for, and the level of comfort you want for the trips you have in mind. Are you bushwhacking through dense underbrush for an extended weekend? Maybe a heavier, durable pack is the best option.

Are you trying to clock big miles on an established trail through the Cascades? A lighter, simpler model may be the best fit. A good pack can last for many adventurous years on the trail, so consider your pack to be an investment.

The best backpacking pack is the one that fits your body and your backpacking objectives. We’ve included lots of excellent packs on this list.

For most people, comfort is paramount. You’ll be hiking great distances with your pack on, and you don’t want to dread doing what you love because of uncomfortable gear.

Measure your torso length and waist size carefully before choosing a pack. Determine a capacity range that allows you to pack everything you’ll need on your backpacking trips. If you like certain features or have organization preferences, seek them out when it’s time to make a purchase.

The ideal size of your pack depends on your own dimensions, as well as on the amount of gear that you plan to carry. For trips up to 3 days, a 50-70L pack is usually enough. For longer trips, look for a pack that can carry at least 60 L.

Some backpackers have truly mastered the art of thinning down their kit to the bare essentials. However, for most people, a 40L pack will not be large enough for trips longer than a single overnight excursion.

Packing your backpack properly will help you maximize your pack’s capacity and ensure that you feel balanced while hiking with a heavy load. The more organized your initial packing process is, the less you will have to rummage around, looking for stuff during your trip. Knowing how to properly and efficiently pack is an essential part of a successful adventure.

Generally, you’ll want to pack items that you won’t need while hiking near the bottom of your pack. This includes your sleeping bag and extra clothes. The middle of your pack is where you should keep heavier items like food and water. The closer the heavy items are to your back, the better.

Keep frequently used items like rain layers and toiletries near the top of your pack where they will be easily accessible. In your hip strap and top lid, you’ll want to keep things like maps, lip balm, a GPS device, etc.

The Best Ultralight Backpacks of 2024

What’s the best ultralight backpack? We interviewed thru-hikers and put several models to the test to find some of the top lightweight hiking backpacks.

The Best Backpacking Tents of 2024

Whether you’re looking to spend 100 nights on the trail or stick to a tight budget, we’ve found the best backpacking tents of 2024.

Based in beautiful Chattanooga, Tennessee, Chris Carter is a Senior Editor for GearJunkie, while squeezing in side gigs as an adventure filmmaker and content creator in the outdoor industry. Drawing from his childhood in Africa, experience as a rock climbing and backpacking guide, ultra-marathon running, and years of extensive thru-hiking, he’s passionate about journalism that gets people into the wild. He has thru-hiked the Triple Crown of long trails in America: the Pacific Crest Trail (2018), the Continental Divide Trail (2021), and the Appalachian Trail (2021), and has explored, rock-climbed, and backpacked all over the world. He hopes to spread his love of adventure and travel through his writing, art, and videography.

Austin Beck-Doss is a Staff Writer at GearJunkie. Austin has been writing about climbing, hiking, and snowsports for 6+ years. Prior to that, Austin worked as a rock climbing and wilderness guide.

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8 of the most stylish backpacks for summer travel.

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Dagne Dover backpack in Camel

The backpack is an ideal accessory for travel but in many cases function overrules form with sturdy zippers, industrial strength fabrics, and cheerless colorways. Designers and luggage producers have sensed this disparity and now customers can find a range of cool offerings—backpacks that get the job done but don’t scream “I’m going hiking today.” These are some of the travel world’s top options for both style and substance.

Form and Function

Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Backpack: This 100% premium neoprene backpack is sleek and sporty with its one-tone color (right down to the zippers) and supple texture. The material is surprisingly comfortable and lightweight but stretchy and packable—able to hold everything you need plus an outfit change. The neoprene is water resistant and the bag can hold up to a 16” laptop—with oodles of additional space to hold all of your essentials yet still remain stylish. It comes in two sizes, the large is ideal for a long haul journey that might require a change of clothes, the medium is nice for a short trip. Take note, neoprene tends to pill over time so read care instructions carefully. $155

Away Everywhere Zip Backpack

AWAY Everywhere Zip Backpack : Away’s travel backpack has a place for everything and a clean professional look in several color options. Made with water resistant nylon material—which looks sharp but is easy to wipe clean—it also has a mesh back panel for breathability. The laptop sleeve holds a 15” laptop and has a cool magnetic locking zipper. Away did a nice job conceiving of a good-looking backpack that delivers on usefulness. The takeaway—this one has loads of interior storage pockets, quality zippers, in a nice looking, minimalist style, however, water bottle lovers might miss having a side pocket.$195

Briggs & Riley Medium Widemouth Backpack: This is a debut offering from their recently launched sustainably made backpack collection that features bags that are constructed from recycled plastic water bottles. It’s compact and sleek with one exterior pocket (that has a bright orange contrasting interior to help you see when the pocket is left open, a nice touch). It’s also an RFID blocking pocket and boasts nice lumbar support—all in a very functional but still nice looking option from a trusted travel brand. $295

Arden Cove MB Backpack

Arden Cove MB Packing Backpack : This sleek-looking option unzips entirely, making it more like a small suitcase in many ways. There is a separate zippered compartment where an extra change of clothes could easily be stored. Add in a laptop and some headphones, a few other items and off you go. It also features water-resistant slash-proof fabric, locking clasps and vegan leather. However, the material (being slash-proof) tends to have little give, making it a hard one to stuff with extra items such as jacket or sweater. $579

Best High-Yield Savings Accounts Of 2024

Best 5% interest savings accounts of 2024, leather & style for a lifetime.

ABLE's Alem Backpack in cognac

ABLE Alem Backpack: This Nashville-based brand offers a sleek minimalist backpack in 100% leather for an elegant put-together look (that also holds a 15” laptop—but no one will ever know.) A single exterior zippered pocket is roomy and able to hold everything you need, offering quick access to passport, wallet, and phone. The single drawback is a lack of interior pockets (for those who like everything in its place, this might not be the one for you). Craftsmanship is excellent with nice stitching and durable zipper quality. Indeed, ABLE is intentional about only working with manufacturers who pay living wages and provide safe working conditions to employees, most of which are women in the garment industry. This bag is also sustainably made from 100% genuine leather and can be personalized. $298

Ghurka Blazer No 278 Backpack : Gurka is an iconic leather brand known for classics built around a purpose—in this case the backpack—and this one offers a timeless look that will age beautifully. The cinch-top leather pull closure is a stylish spin on the traditional zippered backpack and the interior is finished in a fetching cotton twill. It also has a 15” laptop sleeve and features Ghurka’s signature tab closures. The whole business will be stiff for a while, but like a pair of serious cowboy boots time is needed to break things in—overall, it’s a lasting investment that the next generation can enjoy. Crafted from European cow hides using a vegetable-tan process, the final product is manufactured by craftsmen in the USA and Europe—can be monogrammed (a good idea for such a lifetime bag) $1,725

Brahmin Dartmouth backpack

Brahmin Dartmouth Backpack : The Brahmin signature faux crocodile texture always telegraphs style, and this all-leather backpack is no exception. Indeed, Dartmouth’s designer look makes it a standout accessory, but it runs smaller than others and lacks a padded laptop sleeve. The interior is large enough to accommodate a 13 -14“ laptop and the Pecan Melbourne colorway travels well (it does come in black). Best of all, this backpack is truly lightweight for a leather offering, and you can accessorize it with Brahmin’s many other offerings such as a matching wallet. The beige interior makes it easy to find your things, and three zippered pockets are enough to store the important items. $375

Stylish Value

Bagsmart Bonchemin Laptop Backpack : This roomy option holds a 15.6” laptop and the quilted fabric look with contrasting gold zippers give this bag easy style points. It also has a great pocket game with every compartment featuring zippered options–one could organize an entire desk’s worth of office supplies in this bag and still have room for a change of clothes. It also has a USB charging port (very tastefully hidden on the side), and the quilted knit is water resistant. A stain guard treatment might be a good call because of the nature of fabric—one spilled coffee could ruin the day. At $44 it delivers on function and style, but pre-treat or choose a darker color because it might be hard to keep fabric clean over time. $44.90

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Home » Europe » Moscow

EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)

Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit!

Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city each year! Although the warmer months make exploring Moscow’s attractions more favorable, there’s just something about a fresh snowfall that only enhances the appearance of the city’s iconic sites!

If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or simply wanting to see as much of the city as possible, this Moscow itinerary will help you do just that!

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Best Time To Visit Moscow

Where to stay in moscow, moscow itinerary, day 1 itinerary in moscow, day 2 itinerary in moscow, day 3 and beyond, staying safe in moscow, day trips from moscow, faq on moscow itinerary.

Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Moscow!

The summer months (June-August) are a great time to travel to Moscow to take advantage of the enjoyable mild temperatures. This is considered peak travel season. Bear in mind that hotel prices rise along with the temperatures!

If you’re planning a trip to Moscow during fall (September-November) try to plan for early fall. This way the temperatures will still be pleasant and winter won’t be threatening.

Russian winters (December-February) are not for the faint of heart as Napoleon learned to his peril. Some days the sun will be out for less than an hour, and snow is guaranteed. Although winters are exceptionally cold, this is when you’ll get a true glimpse of the Moscow experience!

The best time to visit Moscow is during spring  (March-May). The temperatures will begin to creep up and the sun begins to shine for significant portions of the day. Hotel rates will also have yet to skyrocket into peak ranges!

With a Moscow City Pass , you can experience the best of Moscow at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Moscow is a large city with many accommodation options to choose from. Staying in a location that fits with your travel plans will only enhance your Moscow itinerary. Here is a brief introduction to a few great areas of the city we recommend checking out!

The best place to stay in Moscow to be close to all the action is Kitay-Gorod. This charming neighborhood will put you within walking distance to Moscow’s famous Red Square, thus cutting down on travel time. This will allow you to see more of the city in a shorter amount of time!

It’s surrounded by restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or just planning a quick weekend in Moscow, then this area is perfect for you!

Another great area to consider is the Zamoskvorechye district. This area of the city offers a blend of new and old Moscow. It has an artsy vibe and there are plenty of fun sites you can explore outside of the main touristy areas of Moscow.

Of course, as in all areas of Moscow, it’s close to public transportation that will quickly connect you with the rest of the city and make your Moscow itinerary super accessible!

Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Modern and cozy, this apartment is in the heart of Old Moscow. Bordering the Basmanny and Kitay-Gorod districts, this two-bedroom flat is walking distance to the Kremlin and Red Square. Safe, quiet, and comfortable, this is the best Airbnb in Moscow, no question!

Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel

The Izmailovo Alfa Hotel is a very highly rated accommodation that provides all the components necessary for a comfortable trip to Moscow. There is an on-site restaurant, bar, fitness center, and an airport shuttle service. The rooms are modern and spacious and are equipped with a TV, heating/air conditioning, minibar, and more!

Best Luxury Hotel in Moscow – Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre

If you’re touring Moscow in luxury, the Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre is the hotel for you! Elegantly furnished rooms are equipped with a minibar, flat-screen TV,  in-room safes, as well as tea and coffee making facilities! Bathrooms come with bathrobes, slippers, and free toiletries. There is also an onsite restaurant, bar, and fitness center.

Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station. Guests will enjoy all the usual hostel perks such as self-catering facilities, 24-hour reception, Free Wi-Fi, and security lockers. This is one of the best hostels in Moscow and its wonderful social atmosphere and will make your vacation in Moscow extra special!

Godzillas Hostel is one of our favourites in Moscow but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

An important aspect of planning any trip is figuring out the transportation situation. You’re probably wondering how you’re going to get to all of your Moscow points of interest right? Luckily, this sprawling city has an excellent network of public transportation that will make traveling a breeze!

The underground metro system is the quickest and most efficient way to travel around Moscow. Most visitors rely exclusively on this super-efficient transportation system, which allows you to get to pretty much anywhere in the city! It’s also a great option if you’re planning a Moscow itinerary during the colder months, as you’ll be sheltered from the snow and freezing temperatures!

If you prefer above-ground transportation, buses, trams, and trolleybuses, run throughout the city and provide a rather comfortable alternative to the metro.

Moscow’s metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses are all accessible with a ‘Troika’ card. This card can be topped up with any sum of money at a metro cash desk. The ticket is simple, convenient, and even refundable upon return to a cashier!

No matter which method you choose, you’ll never find yourself without an easy means of getting from point A to point B!

Red Square | Moscow Kremlin | Lenin’s Mausoleum | St. Basil’s Cathedral  | GUM Department Store

Spend the first day of your itinerary taking your own self guided Moscow walking tour around the historic Red Square! This is Moscow’s compact city center and every stop on this list is within easy walking distance to the next! Get ready to see all of the top Moscow landmarks!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square

• Why it’s awesome: The Red Square is the most recognizable area in Moscow, it has mesmerizing architecture and centuries worth of history attached to its name.
• Cost: Free to walk around, individual attractions in the square have separate fees. 
• Food nearby: Check out Bar BQ Cafe for friendly service and good food in a great location! The atmosphere is upbeat and they’re open 24/7!

The Red Square is Moscow’s historic fortress and the center of the Russian government. The origins of the square date back to the late 15th century, when Ivan the Great decided to expand the Kremlin to reflect Moscow’s growing power and prestige!

During the 20th century, the square became famous as the site for demonstrations designed to showcase Soviet strength. Visiting the Red Square today, you’ll find it teeming with tourists, who come to witness its magical architecture up close!

The square is the picture postcard of Russian tourism, so make sure to bring your camera when you visit! No matter the season, or the time of day, it’s delightfully photogenic! 

It’s also home to some of Russia’s most distinguishing and important landmarks, which we’ve made sure to include further down in this itinerary. It’s an important center of Russia’s cultural life and one of the top places to visit in Moscow!

In 1990, UNESCO designated Russia’s Red Square as a World Heritage site. Visiting this historic site is a true bucket-list event and essential addition to your itinerary for Moscow!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin

• Why it’s awesome: The Moscow Kremlin complex includes several palaces and cathedrals and is surrounded by the Kremlin wall. It also houses the principal museum of Russia (the Kremlin Armory).
• Cost: USD $15.00
• Food nearby: Bosco Cafe is a charming place to grat a casual bite to eat. They have excellent coffee and wonderful views of the Red Square and the Moscow Kremlin!

The iconic Moscow Kremlin , also known as the Kremlin museum complex, sits on Borovitsky Hill, rising above the Moscow River. It is a fortified complex in the center of the city, overlooking several iconic buildings in the Red Square!

It’s the best known of the Russian Kremlins – citadels or fortress’ protecting and dominating a city. During the early decades of the Soviet era, the Kremlin was a private enclave where the state’s governing elite lived and worked.

The Kremlin is outlined by an irregularly shaped triangular wall that encloses an area of 68 acres! The existing walls and towers were built from 1485 to 1495. Inside the Kremlin museum complex, there are five palaces, four cathedrals, and the enclosing Kremlin Wall with Kremlin towers.

The Armoury Chamber is a part of the Grand Kremlin Palace’s complex and is one of the oldest museums of Moscow, established in 1851. It showcases Russian history and displays many cherished relics. Definitely make sure to check out this museum while you’re here!

The churches inside the Moscow Kremlin are the Cathedral of the Dormition, Church of the Archangel, Church of the Annunciation, and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki (a church tower).

The five-domed Cathedral of the Dormition is considered the most famous. It was built from 1475–1479 by an Italian architect and has served as a wedding and coronation place for great princes, tsars, and emperors of Russia. Church services are given in the Kremlin’s numerous cathedrals on a regular basis.

The Grand Kremlin Palace was the former Tsar’s Moscow residence and today it serves as the official workplace of the President of the Russian Federation (Vladimir Putin seems to have bagged that title for life) .

Insider Tip: The Kremlin is closed every Thursday! Make sure to plan this stop on your Moscow itinerary for any other day of the week!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum

• Why it’s awesome: The mausoleum displays the preserved body of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin .
• Cost: Free!
• Food nearby: Khinkal’naya is a charming Georgian restaurant with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick. It’s a popular place with locals and right next to the Red Square!

Lenin’s Mausoleum, also known as Lenin’s Tomb, is the modernist mausoleum for the revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin. It’s located within the Red Square and serves as the resting place for the Soviet leader! His preserved body has been on public display since shortly after his death in 1924.

It’s located just a few steps away from the Kremlin Wall and is one of the most controversial yet popular Moscow attractions!

Admission is free for everyone, you’ll only need to pay if you need to check a bag. Before visitors are allowed to enter the mausoleum, they have to go through a metal detector first. No metal objects, liquids, or large bags are allowed in the mausoleum!

Expect a line to enter the building, and while you’re inside the building, you’ll be constantly moving in line with other visitors. This means you won’t be able to spend as long as you’d like viewing the mausoleum, but you’ll still be able to get a good look. Pictures and filming while inside the building are strictly prohibited, and security guards will stop you if they see you breaking this rule.

The mausoleum is only open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday – unless it’s a public holiday or a day scheduled for maintenance. The hours it’s open for each day are limited, make sure to check online before you visit to make sure you can fit this into your Moscow itinerary for that day!

Insider Tip: The Lenin’s Museum is there for people to pay their respect; remember to keep silent and move along quickly, it’s not intended for people to congregate around. Also, men are not allowed to wear hats and everyone must take their hands out of their pockets when inside the building.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – St. Basil’s Cathedral

• Why it’s awesome: A dazzling designed cathedral that showcases Russia’s unique architecture. This cathedral is one of the most recognizable symbols of the country!
• Cost: USD $8.00
• Food nearby: Moskovskiy Chaynyy Klub is a cozy cafe serving food items and pipping hot tea; it’s the perfect place to go if you’re visiting Moscow during the winter months!

Located in the Red Square, the ornate 16th-century St. Basil’s Cathedral is probably the building you picture when you think of Moscow’s unique architecture. Its colorful onion-shaped domes tower over the Moscow skyline!

The cathedral was built from 1555-1561 by order of Tsar Ivan the Terrible. It was designed with an iconic onion dome facade and enchanting colors that captivate all who see it. Fun fact: If you’re wondering why Russian churches have onion domes, they are popularly believed to symbolize burning candles!

This iconic cathedral has become a symbol of Russia due to its distinguishing architecture and prominent position inside the Red Square. It’s one of the most beautiful, wonderful, and mesmerizing historical cathedrals in the world!

The interior of the church surprises most people when they visit. In contrast to the large exterior, the inside is not so much one large area, but rather a collection of smaller areas, with many corridors and small rooms. There are 9 small chapels and one mausoleum grouped around a central tower.

Visiting the inside is like walking through a maze, there are even small signs all around the cathedral tracing where to walk, and pointing you in the right direction! The walls are meticulously decorated and painted with intricate floral designs and religious themes.

The church rarely holds service and is instead a museum open for the public to visit.

Insider Tip: During the summer months the line to go inside the cathedral can get quite long! Make sure to arrive early or reserve your tickets online to guarantee quick access into the cathedral!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store

• Why it’s awesome: This is Russia’s most famous shopping mall! It’s designed with elegant and opulent architecture and provides a real sense of nostalgia!
• Cost: Free to enter
• Food nearby: Stolovaya 57 is a cafeteria-style restaurant with a variety of inexpensive Russian cuisine menu items including soups, salads, meat dishes, and desserts. It’s also located inside the GUM department store, making it very easily accessible when you’re shopping!

The enormous GUM Department Store is located within the historic Red Square. It has a whimsical enchantment to it that sets it apart from your typical department store.

A massive domed glass ceiling lines the top of the building and fills the interior with natural sunlight. There are live plants and flowers placed throughout the mall that give the shopping complex a lively and cheerful feel! A playful fountain sits in the center, further adding to the malls inviting a sense of wonder and amusement!

The GUM department store opened on December 2, 1893. Today, it includes local and luxury stores, including Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and many more! There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and even a movie theater inside!

For a special treat, head into Gastronom 1. This 1950s-style shop sells gourmet food items, like wine, freshly-baked pastries, cheese, Russian chocolate, and of course, vodka! Also, be on the lookout for a bicycle pedaling ice cream truck with an employing selling ice cream!

The ambiance is simply amazing, a trip to this idyllic shopping mall is an absolute must on any Moscow itinerary!

Insider Tip: Make sure to carry some small change on you in case you need to use the restroom, you’ll need to pay 50 rubles – or about USD $0.80 to use the bathroom in GUM.

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These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Novodevichy Convent | Gorky Park | State Tretyakov Gallery | All-Russian Exhibition Center | Bolshoi Theater

On your 2 day itinerary in Moscow, you’ll have a chance to use the city’s excellent public transportation service! You’ll explore a few more of Moscow’s historic highlight as well as some modern attractions. These sites are a little more spread out, but still very easily accessible thanks to the metro!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent

• Why it’s awesome: The Novodevichy Convent is rich in imperial Russian history and contains some of Russia’s best examples of classical architecture!
• Cost: USD $5.00
• Food nearby: Culinary Shop Karavaevs Brothers is a cozy and simple place to have a quick bite, they also have vegetarian options!

The Novodevichy Convent is the best-known and most popular cloister of Moscow. The convent complex is contained within high walls, and there are many attractions this site is known for! 

The six-pillared five-domed Smolensk Cathedral is the main attraction. It was built to resemble the Kremlin’s Assumption Cathedral and its facade boasts beautiful snowy white walls and a pristine golden onion dome as its centerpiece. It’s the oldest structure in the convent, built from 1524 -1525, and is situated in the center of the complex between the two entrance gates.

There are other churches inside the convent as well, all dating back from many centuries past. The convent is filled with an abundance of 16th and 17th-century religious artworks, including numerous large and extravagant frescos!

Just outside the convent’s grounds lies the Novodevichy Cemetery. Here, you can visit the graves of famous Russians, including esteemed authors, composers, and politicians. Probably the most intriguing gravestone belongs to Russian politician Nikita Khruschev!

The Novodevichy Convent is located near the Moscow River and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city. In 2004, it was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The convent remains remarkably well-preserved and is an outstanding example of Moscow Baroque architecture! 

Insider Tip: To enter the cathedrals inside the complex, women are advised to cover their heads and shoulders, while men should wear long pants.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

• Why it’s awesome: A large amusement area in the heart of the city offering many attractions!
• Cost: Free! 
• Food nearby: Check out Mepkato, located inside Gorky Central Park for a casual meal in a cozy setting. There are indoor and outdoor seating options and the restaurant is child-friendly!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is a large green space in the heart of Moscow. The park opened in 1928, and it stretches along the scenic embankment of the Moskva River. It covers an area of 300-acres and offers a lovely contrast from the compact city center.

You’ll find all sorts of wonderful attractions, from boat rides to bike rentals to tennis courts and ping-pong tables, and much more! there are an open-air cinema and festive events and concerts scheduled in the summer months.  A wide selection of free fitness classes is also offered on a regular basis, including jogging, roller skating, and dancing!

Although many of the options you’ll find here are more suited for outdoor leisure during the summer, you’ll also a selection of winter attractions, including one of Europe’s largest ice rinks for ice-skating!

If you’re trying to decide what to do in Moscow with kids, the park also offers several venues designed specifically for kids. Check out the year-round Green School which offers hands-on classes in gardening and art! You can also feed the squirrels and birds at the Golitsinsky Ponds!

The park is very well maintained and kept clean and the entrance is free of charge, although most individual attractions cost money. There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the park.

With so many attractions, you could easily spend all day here! If you’re only planning a 2 day itinerary in Moscow, make sure to plan your time accordingly and map out all the areas you want to see beforehand!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery

• Why it’s awesome: The gallery’s collection consists entirely of Russian art made by Russian artists!
• Food nearby : Brothers Tretyakovs is located right across the street from the gallery. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric restaurant serving top quality food and drinks!

The State Tretyakov Gallery was founded in 1856 by influential merchant and collector Pavel Tretyakov.  The gallery is a national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the most important museums in Russia!

It houses the world’s best collection of Russian art and contains more than 130, 000 paintings, sculptures, and graphics! These works have been created throughout the centuries by generations of Russia’s most talented artists!

The exhibits range from mysterious 12th-century images to politically charged canvases. The collection is rich and revealing and offers great insight into the history and attitudes of this long-suffering yet inspired people!

All pictures are also labeled in English. If you plan to take your time and see everything inside the museum it will take a good 3-4 hours, so make sure to plan your Moscow trip itinerary accordingly! This gallery is a must-see stop for art lovers, or anyone wanting to explore the local culture and history of Russia in a creative and insightful manner! 

Insider Tip: When planning your 2 days in Moscow itinerary, keep in mind that most museums in Moscow are closed on Mondays, this includes The State Tretyakov Gallery!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center

• Why it’s awesome: This large exhibition center showcases the achievements of the Soviet Union in several different spheres. 
• Food nearby: Varenichnaya No. 1 serves authentic and homestyle Russian cuisine in an intimate and casual setting.

The All-Russian Exhibition Center is a massive park that presents the glory of the Soviet era! It pays homage to the achievements of Soviet Russia with its many different sites found on the property.

The center was officially opened in 1939 to exhibit the achievements of the Soviet Union. It’s a huge complex of buildings and the largest exhibition center in Moscow. There are several exhibition halls dedicated to different achievements and every year there are more than one hundred and fifty specialized exhibitions!

The Peoples Friendship Fountain was constructed in 1954 and is a highlight of the park. The stunning gold fountain features 16 gilded statues of girls, each representing the former Soviet Union republics. 

The Stone Flower Fountain was also built in 1954 and is worth checking out. The centerpiece of this large fountain is a flower carved from stones from the Ural Mountains! Along the side of the fountain are various bronze sculptures.

You will find many people zipping around on rollerblades and bicycles across the large area that the venue covers. It’s also home to amusement rides and carousels, making it the perfect place to stop with kids on your Moscow itinerary! Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and allow a few hours to explore all the areas that interest you!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater

• Why it’s awesome: The Bolshoi Theater is a historic venue that hosts world-class ballet and opera performances!
• Cost: Prices vary largely between USD $2.00 –  USD $228.00 based on seat location.
• Food nearby: Head to the Russian restaurant, Bolshoi for high-quality food and drinks and excellent service!

The Bolshoi Theater is among the oldest and most renowned ballet and opera companies in the world! It also boasts the world’s biggest ballet company, with more than 200 dancers!

The theater has been rebuilt and renovated several times during its long history. In 2011 it finished its most recent renovation after an extensive six-year restoration that started in 2005. The renovation included an improvement in acoustics and the restoration of the original Imperial decor.

The Bolshoi Theater has put on many of the world’s most famous ballet acts! Tchaikovsky’s ballet Swan Lake premiered at the theater in 1877 and other notable performances of the Bolshoi repertoire include Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker!

Today, when you visit the theater, you can expect a magical performance from skilled singers, dancers, and musicians with the highest level of technique!

If you don’t have time to see a show, the theater also provides guided tours on select days of the week. Tours are given in both Russian and English and will provide visitors with a more intimate look at the different areas of the theater!

The stage of this iconic Russian theater has seen many outstanding performances. If you’re a fan of the performing arts, the Bolshoi Theater is one of the greatest and oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, making it a must-see attraction on your Moscow itinerary!

Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station.

• Towels Included

Cosmonautics Museum | Alexander Garden | Ostankino Tower | Izmaylovo District | Soviet Arcade Museum

Now that we’ve covered what to do in Moscow in 2 days, if you’re able to spend more time in the city you’re going to need more attractions to fill your time. Here are a few more really cool things to do in Moscow we recommend!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

• Hear the timeline of the ‘space race’ from the Russian perspective
• This museum is fun for both adults and children!
• Admission is USD $4.00

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a museum dedicated to space exploration! The museum explores the history of flight, astronomy, space exploration, space technology, and space in the arts. It houses a large assortment of Soviet and Russian space-related exhibits, and the museum’s collection holds approximately 85,000 different items!

The museum does an excellent job of telling the full story of the exciting space race between the USSR and the US! It highlights the brightest moments in Russian history and humanity and is very interesting and fun for all ages!

If you’re a fan of space or just curious about gaining insight into Russia’s fascinating history of space exploration, make sure to add this to your 3 day itinerary in Moscow!

The Alexander Garden

• A tranquil place to relax near the Red Square
• Green lawns dotted with sculptures and lovely water features
• The park is open every day and has no entrance fee

The Alexander Garden was one of the first urban public parks in Moscow! The garden premiered in 1821 and was built to celebrate Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s forces in 1812!

The park is beautiful and well maintained with paths to walk on and benches to rest on. The park contains three separate gardens: the upper garden, middle garden, and lower garden.

Located in the upper garden, towards the main entrance to the park is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with its eternal flame. This monument was created in 1967 and contains the body of a soldier who fell during the Great Patriotic War!

The park stretches along all the length of the western Kremlin wall for about half a mile. Due to its central location in the city, it’ll be easily accessible when you’re out exploring The Red Square.

It provides a bit of relief from the city’s high-energy city streets. Bring a picnic lunch, go for a walk, or just sit and people watch, this is one of the best Moscow sites to wind-down and relax!

Ostankino Television Tower

• Television and radio tower in Moscow
• Currently the tallest free-standing structure in Europe
• Make sure you bring your passport when you visit, you can’t go up without it!

For spectacular views of the city, make sure to add the Ostankino Television Tower to your itinerary for Moscow! This impressive free-standing structure provides stunning views of the city in every direction. The glass floor at the top also provides great alternative views of the city!

It takes just 58 seconds for visitors to reach the Tower’s observation deck by super fast elevator. The tower is open every day for long hours and is a great site in Moscow to check out! There is even a restaurant at the top where you can enjoy rotating views of the city while you dine on traditional Russian cuisine or European cuisine!

The tower is somewhat of an architectural surprise in a city that is not known for skyscrapers! To see the city from a new perspective, make sure to add this stop to your Moscow itinerary!

Izmaylovo District

• The most popular attractions in this district are the kremlin and the flea market
• Outside of the city center and easy to reach via metro
• Most popular during the summer and on weekends

Travel outside the city center and discover a unique area of the city! The Izmaylovo District is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and one of the coolest places to see in Moscow! The two main attractions we recommend checking out are the Kremlin and the flea market.

The Izmailovo Kremlin was established as a cultural center and molded after traditional Russian architecture. This colorful complex is home to several single-subject museums, including a Russian folk art museum and a vodka museum!

Next to the Kremlin is the Izmailovo open-air market, which dates back to the 17th century! The market is connected to the Izmailovo Kremlin by a wooden bridge. Pick up all your Russian souvenirs here, including traditional handicrafts, paintings, books, retro toys, and Soviet memorabilia!

You will find many hand-made and hand-painted options available at higher prices, as well as mass-produced souvenir options at lower prices!

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

• Closed on Mondays
• Filled with old arcade games that visitors get to try out!
• The museum also includes a small cafe and burger shop

For something a little different, check out the Museum of Soviet Arcade Games! The museum features roughly 60 machines from the Soviet era, including video games, pinball machines, and collaborative hockey foosball! The machines inside the museum were produced in the USSR in the mid-1970s.

The best part is, most of the games are still playable! Purchase tickets and try the games out for yourself! The museum also has a neat little screening room that plays old Soviet cartoons and an area with Soviet magazines! This unique attraction is a fun addition to a 3 day itinerary in Moscow, and an attraction that all ages will enjoy! 

Whether you’re spending one day in Moscow, or more, safety is an important thing to keep in mind when traveling to a big city! Overall, Moscow is a very safe place to visit. However, it is always recommended that tourists take certain precautions when traveling to a new destination!

The police in Moscow is extremely effective at making the city a safe place to visit and do their best to patrol all of the top Moscow, Russia tourist attractions. However, tourists can still be a target for pickpockets and scammers.

Moscow has a huge flow of tourists, therefore there is a risk for pickpocketing. Simple precautions will help eliminate your chances of being robbed. Stay vigilant, keep your items close to you at all times, and don’t flash your valuables!

If you’re planning a solo Moscow itinerary, you should have no need to worry, as the city is also considered safe for solo travelers, even women. Stay in the populated areas, try and not travel alone late at night, and never accept rides from strangers or taxis without a meter and correct signage.

The threat of natural disasters in Moscow is low, with the exception of severe winters when the temperature can dip below freezing! Bring a good, warm jacket if you visit in Winter.

However, please note that Russian views on homsexuality are far less accepting than those in Western Europe. Likewise, Non-Caucasian travellers may sadly encounter racism in Russia .

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Moscow

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Now that we’ve covered all the top things to see in Moscow, we thought we’d include some exciting day trips to other areas of the country!

Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)

On this 7-hour guided tour, you’ll visit several scenic and historic areas of Russia. Start your day with hotel pick-up as you’re transferred by a comfortable car or minivan to Sergiev Posad. Admire the charming Russian countryside on your drive and enjoy a quick stop to visit the Russian village, Rudonezh!

You’ll see the majestic Saint Spring and the Church of Sergiev Radonezh. You’ll also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, one of the most famous Orthodox sites in Russia!

Lastly, you’ll swing by the local Matreshka market and enjoy a break in a nice Russian restaurant before returning to Moscow!

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

On this 13-hour trip, you’ll discover old Russia, with its picturesque landscapes and white-stoned beautiful churches! You’ll visit the main towns of the famous Golden Ring of Russia – the name for several cities and smaller towns north-east of Moscow.

Your first stop will be in the town of Vladimir, the ancient capital of all Russian principalities. The city dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest and the most important towns along the Ring! Next, you’ll visit Suzdal, a calm ancient Russian town north of Vladimir with only 13,000 inhabitants!

The old-style architecture and buildings of Suzdal are kept wonderfully intact. If you’re spending three days in Moscow, or more, this is a great option for exploring the charming areas outside the city!

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

On this 9-hour private tour, you’ll explore the ancient town of Zvenigorod, one of the oldest towns in the Moscow region! As you leave Moscow you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery along the Moscow River, and make a few stops at old churches along the way to Zvenigorod.

Upon arrival, you’ll explore the medieval center, including the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery. Next, you’ll take a break for lunch (own expense) where you’ll have the chance to try out the Russian cuisine! Next, you’ll visit the Museum of Russian Dessert and sip on tea at a Russian tea ceremony.

The final stop of the day is at the Ershovo Estate, a gorgeous place to walk around and enjoy nature!

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge

On this full-day tour, you’ll enjoy a a full round trip to St Petersburg where you’ll spend an exciting day exploring another popular Russian city! You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Moscow and be transferred to the train station where you’ll ride the high-speed train ‘Sapsan’ to St Petersburg.

Upon arrival, you’ll start the day by touring the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace. Next, you’ll visit the Faberge Museum, where you’ll explore the impressive collection of rare Faberge Eggs! In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing boat ride and a traditional 3-course Russian lunch.

If you’re spending 3 days in Moscow, or more, this is an excellent trip to take!

Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

On this 10-hour tour, you’ll escape the city and travel to the historic town of Kolomna! First, you’ll visit the 14th-century Kolomna Kremlin, home to the Assumption Cathedral and an abundance of museums!

Next, enjoy lunch at a local cafe (own expense) before embarking on a tour of the Marshmallow Museum – of course, a marshmallow tasting is provided!  Your final stop is the Museum of Forging Settlements, where displays include armor and accessories for fishing and hunting.

Discover this beautiful Russian fairytale city on a private trip, where all of the planning is taken care of for you!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Moscow itinerary.

How many days you need in Moscow?

We recommend that you spend at least two or three days in Moscow to take it all in.

What’s the best month to visit Moscow?

The best time to visit Moscow is over the spring, from March to May as temperatures are mild, crowds are thin and prices are reasonable.

What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?

I mean, queuing up to see an almost 100 year old corpse is pretty unsual! Check out Lenin’s Mausoleum if you fancy it!

What are some fun things to do in Moscow?

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a fun place to explore the famous space race from the perspective of the ‘other side’!

We hope you enjoyed our Moscow itinerary! We’ve made sure to cover all the Moscow must-sees as well as some unique attractions in the city! Our addition of insider tips, favorite food stops, and day trips from Moscow is an added bonus and will guarantee you make the most out of your exciting Russian vacation!

Immerse yourself in the modern and traditional Russian lifestyle! Get lost in museums, witness awe-inspiring architecture, and indulge in Russian cuisine! Spend the day strolling through all of the charming sites of Moscow, admiring the beautiful scenery and discovering the city’s fairytale-like enchantment!

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Alya and Campbell

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The 7 Best Backpacking Backpacks of 2024

From weekend trips to long-distance treks, these backpacking backpacks have you covered.

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Travel + Leisure / Brian Kopinski

I’ve been backpacking in various capacities for over a decade from off-the-grid wilderness treks to hostel hopping around Europe. Whether you’re planning to head out for a day trip , an overnight hike, or extended excursion, choosing the right backpacking backpack is essential to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Backpacking backpacks come in a range of designs, from ultralight models for speedy, minimalist hikers to more burly packs suited for lugging heavier loads (or even checking if you're flying).

Besides holding all your equipment, gear, and provisions, a quality pack should be comfortable to carry and fit your frame. When choosing the best backpacking pack for my trips, I consider performance, durability, value, and versatility for different durations and weather conditions. If you’re gearing up for your first backpacking trip or looking to level up with a new pack, check out my favorite options below.

Best Overall

Osprey kestrel 58 pack.

It’s a versatile, full-featured pack made with durable materials that will last for years to come.

This is quite a large and hefty pack that may be too heavy for lighter trips.

For an all-around performer that’s suitable for weekend and long-distance trips in varied climates, the Osprey Kestrel 58 is my top pick along with the women’s specific version: the Osprey Kyte 58L Pack . Osprey backpacks are well-known for their top-notch performance and lasting durability. My first Osprey Kestrel is over a decade old and accompanied me up all 12,244 feet of Indonesia's Mount Rinjani and to every corner of Cambodia during my two-year Peace Corps service. The current model incorporates a revamped back panel: the AirScape system. It offers adjustable torso lengths and breathability while delivering close contact and excellent weight distribution on the lower back. 

The Kestrel’s use of 420-denier nylon in the pack body provides exceptional durability against wear and tear, even compared to other Osprey packs. I love that it’s equipped with a detachable rain cover, and how easy the cover is to pull over even fully loaded packs. There’s plenty of options for storage and organization, too. It has five external pockets, trekking pole holders, and daisy chains for adding more gear. I’m a big fan of packs with multiple access points, and the Kestrel offers easy entry from the top and front. To expand my storage options, I typically make use of the sleeping bag straps to hold dirty clothes on longer trips.

The Details: 420-denier nylon and 500-denier high-tenacity nylon | 4.7-4.9 pounds | Size S/M and L/XL | 58 liters | Waterproof

Best Lightweight

Gossamer gear mariposa 60 backpack.

Gossamer Gear

This ultralight pack offers a frame that moves with your gait and a choice of hip belt design for a tailored fit. 

It’s water-resistant, not waterproof.

When every ounce counts, the Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60 is an excellent choice for lightening your load on the trail. With a 60-liter capacity, it delivers an impressive weight to storage ratio of roughly 0.54 ounces per liter. The main compartment is spacious, and there are seven exterior pockets for stashing water bottles and trail essentials. The pack is made with robic nylon, which helps save on weight, but doesn’t offer much for waterproofing. However, this can be resolved by adding Gossamer’s waterproof pack liner .

I love that the modular design allows the Gossamer to be configured for optimal weight and fit preferences (for example, the choice of a straight or curved hip belt). The Mariposa’s hip belt, back padding, and aluminum frame can be removed to make the pack even lighter, though this sacrifices comfort and ability to carry the pack fully loaded. There are also load lifters that work with the frame to relieve pressure on the shoulders, if desired.

The Details: Recycled nylon | 2.1 pounds | Size S-L | 60 liters 

Best for Beginners

Rei co-op trailmade 60 pack.

It’s a highly adjustable pack with comfortable padding and intuitive organization that new and experienced hikers will appreciate. 

The weight is middle of the road for a backpack this size.

The REI Co-op Trailmade 60 Pack is a user-friendly introduction to backpacking. Dialing in the right fit is essential when backpacking, and REI’s adjustable design makes this a seamless process. REI’s Trailmade collection is focused on more inclusive sizing options and affordability for new hikers and backpackers as well. To that end, the Trailmade 60 Pack is designed with an adjustable back length and a range of hip belt sizes. Both the men’s and women’s packs can fit waists and hips between 32 and 58 inches and the torso length is easily tweaked with a Velcro strap. I appreciate that adjustment directions (and packing tips) are printed on the underside of the top lid for even easier set up. The top-loading compartment is easy to use, and the option to configure a separate compartment for a sleeping bag (or dirty clothes) comes in handy on multi-day trips. I’m also a big fan of how accessible the water bottle holders are while wearing the pack. 

The Details: Recycled nylon | 3.2-3.7 pounds | 60 liters

Best Organization

Deuter aircontact core 65+10l backpack.

Backcountry

It has multiple access points and numerous exterior and interior pockets. 

It only comes in one size.

Having quick and easy access to essential gear saves time and hassle on the trail; not to mention, it makes setting up camp after an arduous day that much easier. The Deuter Aircontact Core Pack 65 + 10 gives backpackers a wealth of storage and functionality (do note that the women’s version of the Aircontact Core is designed as a 60 + 10 backpack). I love that gear can be packed and accessed from the top, front, and bottom of the bag. There’s a total of six exterior pockets, including zippered hip belt pockets, mesh side pockets, front stash pocket, and a zippered top pocket. The pack also features an interior pocket for valuables, trekking pole holders, and hydration system compatibility. While 65 liters of capacity is sufficient for many treks, I appreciate the ease of expanding the collar on the main compartment for an additional 10 liters of storage if needed. Though it only comes in one size, the VariSlide system allows for easy and exact adjustments to your back length for a secure fit. The hip belts and shoulder straps are supportive and adjustable, too, to ensure the pack stays in place

The Details: 235-denier polyamide and 500-denier textured polyamide | 4.9 pounds | One size | Up to 75 liters

Best Ventilation

Gregory katmai 55 pack.

The pack offers excellent air flow and ventilation for staying comfortable on the trail. 

The sturdy frame and full set of features add some weight compared to ultralight models. 

It’s easy to work up a sweat while backpacking — the Gregory Katmai 55 Pack offers top-notch breathability and ventilation when things heat up. The pack is equipped with Gregory’s FreeFloat 360 suspension system — a highly ventilated back panel that conforms to the shape of the lower back while allowing optimal air flow between you and the pack. I appreciate that the ventilated back panel is also treated with Polygiene Stays Fresh Technology to diminish odor-causing bacteria.

I also love that the pack offers inclusive sizing. The S/M fits waists/hips from 25 to 48 inches and torso lengths from 15 to 19 inches, while the M/L goes up to 53 inches for the waist/hips and 22 inches for torso length. The Katmai is a men’s specific pack, but the Gregory Kalmia 50 Pack is a similar model specifically designed for women. 

The Details: 210-denier nylon and 420-denier nylon | 4.6 pounds | Size S/M and M/L | 55 liters | Water-repellent

Best for Heavier Loads

Osprey aether 55 pack.

The customizable fit and suspension system aid in hauling considerably more gear than models of comparable weight and capacity. 

It’s on the heavier side if you don’t intend to make use of its hauling capabilities. 

Whether planning for a longer trek or carrying gear for others, having the option to haul more can be a major plus. The Osprey Aether 55 Pack (or Osprey Ariel 55 Pack for women) boasts an impressive load range of up to 60 pounds (when fully expanded). To handle heftier loads comfortably, the pack employs a close-to-body carry design. This is accomplished with Osprey’s AirScape injection-molded back panel that fits snug to the body, plus adjustable hip belt and torso length and shoulder straps that can be fine-tuned on the trail as needed. As an avid hiker, I appreciate that much of the weight sits on the hip belt and lumbar area to avoid strain in the shoulders.

Multiple access points and numerous loops and pockets make it easy to keep things organized while piling on lots of gear and provisions as well. When fully loaded, the twin compression straps come in handy for balancing weight and keeping gear in place.

The Details: 420HD nylon pack cloth and 210-denier nylon Diamond | 5 pounds | Size S/M, L/XL | 55 liters 

Most Comfortable

Rei co-op flash air 50 pack.

It’s ultra lightweight and adjustable so you can get a tailor-made fit. 

The thin materials may not be as durable as other options. 

For a lightweight backpack that doesn’t offload the pack weight onto your shoulders, we love the Flash Air 50 Pack for both men and women. The pack weighs less than two pounds, making this a great option for thru-hikers, weekend adventurers, and overnight travelers alike. While this pack is quite minimalistic with few pockets, it does have external pouches large enough to hold your water bottle and other essentials.

We love the light nylon fabric, but it is a bit thin and could snag if caught on branches. We also recommend investing in a raincover if you’re heading off on a longer adventure. But overall, the hip belt and ventilated back panel make this pack an overall comfortable option regardless of your hiking destination and style.

The Details: Ripstop nylon | 1.88 pounds for medium | Size S-L | 50 liters for medium

Tips for Buying a Backpacking Backpack

Be sure to find a proper fit.

Features aside, the best backpack is one that fits you well. Your torso length — a measurement that’s likely not top of mind — is a key determining factor in finding a proper fitting backpack . Thankfully, torso lengths are listed with any reputable backpacking backpack. Your torso length is the distance from where your shoulders and neck meet (the C7 vertebra to get technical) to the point of the lower back that’s aligned with your hip bones. 

The fit along the hips and waist is also critical and, thankfully, easier to measure. Simply wrap a tape measure just above where you’d wear a belt to get your hip measurements. While at-home measurements can give a rough idea to narrow your search, trying on a pack is critical before embarking on a trek. Check that the hip belt sits on top of the hips, as this is where most of the pack weight should rest. Shoulder straps should be snug but only carrying a modest amount of weight. If a pack is sitting on the hips correctly and not touching the shoulders, shorten the torso length or change pack size. 

Note that many packs offer some level of adjustability for torso length and hip belts. Extra features like load lifters and sternum straps can enhance the fit but be cautious about over-tightening these to avoid transferring too much weight onto the upper body.

Consider overall weight

The trip duration, weather conditions, and necessary gear will have some bearing on how much you need to pack, but a general rule of thumb is that a backpacking backpack should not exceed 20 percent of your weight when fully packed. To strategize your packing, start with the actual weight of the backpack plus truly essential equipment. Carefully planning out how much water, snacks, and food you should bring is best to avoid unnecessary weight. Typically, food amounts to 1.5-2.5 pounds per day per person, and this weight lessens as the trip goes on.

It can take some trial and error to figure out what gear and equipment is essential for your backpacking style and preferences. After each trip, consider which items you used frequently versus sparingly or not at all to fine-tune your backpacking packing list.

Think about breathability 

A breathable and well-ventilated backpack is important for comfort and reducing sweat on the trail. If your backpacking trip has limited or no access to potable water (such as deserts and arid environments), cutting down on perspiration can make a big difference. Assess the ventilation in the back panel of any backpack when comparing options.

A good size for a hiking pack depends on your needs, but 10-30 liters is fairly standard for day trip packs. For a weekend backpacking trip or thru-hike, consider leveling up to 30-50 liters.

Most backpacking backpacks use an internal frame system. An external frame may come in handy if carrying larger gear that can’t fit within the backpack, while frameless models are popular with ultralight backpackers carrying only the essentials.

Pack denser and heavier items toward the bottom and middle of the backpack for optimal weight distribution with smaller and lighter items on top. Anything you’ll want quick access to on the trail can go in exterior pockets or the top of the backpack.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Kevin Brouillard specializes in outdoor gear and apparel. His work has also been published in TripSavvy, Jetsetter, and Oyster, and he served in the Peace Corps in Cambodia for two years. Kevin used his backpacking and camping experience to curate this list of the best backpacking backpacks.

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