What Is The Best Backpack For Traveling – 9 Best Of Backpacks

What Is The Best Backpack For Traveling – 9 Best Of Backpacks

What is the best backpack for traveling you’re wondering? Well, look no further, as I have looked through an extensive range and have found the best ones for you.

As you know backpacks are great for traveling and should be an essential item for anyone who travels often.

Travel backpacks are so versatile, they can be used for hiking, camping and basically any outdoor activity you can think of.

Not only are they great for the great outdoors, they come in really handy when you’re traveling and want to go on a day trip or short overnight stays or even as a carry-on for a weekend getaway.

Backpacks for traveling come in many different sizes and styles, and can offer a lot of different qualities depending on your needs and budget.

When you make your decision make sure to take into consideration comfort and size, as you will have to carry the backpack for a while depending on what you’re planning on doing.

Durability would be quite important especially if you’re hiking as you’re more likely to be exposed to the elements. Think about whether you’ll need your backpack to be waterproof or if you need it to have a rain cover.

Do you need the backpack to have lots of pockets, should it be top loading or easy accessible with zippers?

Following you will find a list that shows the best backpacks for hiking, great lightweight backpacks and some great day packs.


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This is at no extra cost to you.


SwissGear Travel Gear 1900 Scansmart TSA

Laptop Backpack – Gray

Click on image for price and more information

+ High quality, durable

+ Weather-resistant

+ Reputable brand

+ Spacious, many compartments

– Should come with a user guide to explain all of the features

– Security bag check took a while for some

– Zippers have been a weak point for a few users

Swiss Gear is a reputable brand, known for its quality travel bags and the SwissGear Travel Gear 1900 Scansmart TSA Laptop Backpack is no exception, with nearly 8000 customer reviews making up 4.5 points.

This bag offers a lot of room and plenty of pockets to organise your things neatly. Easy access pockets for laptop and tablet, as well as a large front pocket for your essentials such as tickets and itineraries, etc. Side compartments for big water bottles and umbrella.

This backpack measures 18.5″ x 13.5″ x 9″ and has a capacity of 31 liters. The laptop compartment fits 17″ x 12.5″ x 2.5″. The ScanSmart technology protects your laptop and offers quick security checks through laptop-in-bag TSA scan.

1200D ballistic polyester makes sure the bag withstands harsh conditions for longer.

The shoulder straps and back are padded and side straps are adjustable for better carrying comfort. The airflow back system helps you to stay cooler and decreases sweat even on long hikes.

This backpack comes in 8 different colours.

Some users found they had some issues with the durability of the zippers. And for some it took a bit longer to go through security checks because of the many pockets.

Most found it to be one of the best backpacks for traveling they’ve owned, with the main points being comfort and accessibility, durability and lots of organised space.

ARMYCAMOUSA 40L – 64 L Outdoor 3 Day Expandable Tactical Backpack

Military Sport Camping Hiking Trekking Bag School Travel Gym Carrier

Click on image for price and more information

+ Offers a lot of room

+ Many easy accessible pockets

+ Made to last

– No side pockets

– Could be a bit too bulky

– Not military grade if you were looking for that

This expandable bag is made with 600 Denier polyester and offers durable over sized zippers. Please note that other users stated they’re not military grade.

Main pouch can be expanded from 5″ to 10″ (up to 60 liter capacity), but some stated that it might become a bit bulky. There are also two smaller front pouches.

Two electronic pockets on the shoulder straps are great for headphones, there is a side water bottle holder and buckles for extra stability.

There are no side pockets, but there is plenty of packing space and this bag is definitely great for outdoor adventures and hiking activities.

There are 8 colours to choose from, 4 different camouflage design and 4 solid colours. The size is 14.5″ x 21″ x 8″.

ZOMAKE Ultra Lightweight Packable Backpack

Water Resistant Hiking Day pack,Small Backpack Handy Foldable Camping Outdoor Backpack Little Bag

Click on image for price and more information

+ Very affordable

+ Water-proof coating

+ Very lightweight

+ Stores away in small pouch

– Not a very large size

– No warranty

– Not as high quality as some other bags

This travel backpack stands out because it is very affordable, very lightweight and when empty, doesn’t take up much room to store away. This bag can be packed as an add on bag if you need an additional bag later on during your trip or a day bag for short trips, such as going to Disney Land.

The main pocket has a capacity of 20 liters, the bag itself weights only 8.8oz and when folded, it’s the size of a sandwich (6.7″ x 6.7″). Unfolded it measures 16.5″ x 7.1″ x 11.8″.

This pack is made with water and tear resistant nylon material, has metal zippers and durable and breathable mesh should straps. Stress points are reinforced and abrasion resistant.

Note: Please don’t expose to heavy rain for too long!

There are 14 different colours to choose from.

MOSISO Sling Backpack, Multipurpose

Cross body Shoulder Bag Travel Hiking Day pack

Click on image for price and more information

+ Inexpensive

+ Lots of organising pockets

+ Many different designs to choose from

– Might only fit enough for day trip

– Not as durable as more expensive items

– Water bottle holder not for big bottles

This bag is great for day trips or as a purse and has lots of different pockets to organise your things within. The larger compartment is zippered and with 11″ iPad, the smaller pockets can fit your phone and wallet.

There are two small mesh pockets on the sides for a small water bottle and small umbrella.

Shoulder strap is padded for extra comfort and strap can be adjusted from 18″ to 36″. Breathable pack panel makes carrying the bag more comfortable, even in hotter temperatures.

Size: 15.3″ x 7.5″ x 3.5″

Comes in 33 different designs and is very popular!

WASING 55L Internal Frame Backpack

Hiking Backpacking Packs for Outdoor Hiking Travel Climbing Camping Mountaineering with Rain Cover WS-55Lpack

Click on image for price and more information

+ Very lightweight

+ Very spacious

+ Rain cover

– Internal frame could be uncomfortable if you’re not tall

– Hip belt pockets not protected from rain

This pack is for the serious backpackers who don’t want to spend a huge amount on expensive bags but still get great quality.

This bag has a capacity of 55 liters (which can be expanded by up to 5 liters) and measures 27.1″ x 12.5″ x 9.8″. It comes in 5 different colours.

Very light pack at 3.5 lbs. Has two inside pockets; one large compartment and one smaller one for flatter items.

The lid can be filled too (this is the extra capacity of up to 5 liters) and be strapped down tightly.

Many different sized outside pockets and buckled straps to pack and secure extra gear and tools. Sleeping bag compartment at the bottom which can fit a large sleeping bag easily. 2 very deep mesh pockets on the side for water bottles.

Hip belt and sternum strap as well as shoulder straps are padded for extra comfort. The should straps are not adjustable for height as they are sewn in. The sternum strap has an integrated emergency whistle.

Perfect fit for anyone between 5′ and 6′.

This is an example of what you can pack without filling the pack to the top:

Inside:

  • cookset
  • alcohol stove
  • food for a few days
  • headlamp and lantern
  • map and compass
  • 3lb sleeping bag
  • hammock with bug net and straps
  • hammock underquilt
  • 9’6″ x 12″ tarp

Outside:

  • 2 water bottles
  • hatchet
  • extra sleeping pad

MOUNTAINTOP 40L Hiking Backpack

Click on image for price and more information

+ Lightweight

+ Inexpensive

+ Can be used as carry on in some airlines

+ Easy access top front pocket

– Not as high quality as others

– Too small for longer hikes

This backpack is great for going on an adventure to Europe and is the perfect size for 2 or more weeks. Because it is so lightweight (2.1lbs or 0.93kg), even smaller persons can carry this bag easily and without complaints.

This bag is great for carry on (double check with your airline for size limits) as it measures only 21.7″ x 13.8″ x 9.8″ but it still has a capacity of 40 liters and offers plenty of room and lots of different compartments:

Large main compartment opening on top, internal zippered pocket perfect for laptop size 17″, front zippered pocket for easy access and side mesh pockets for water bottles and/or umbrella. The bottom has a zipped access to the main compartment too. There are plenty of adjustable straps for extra gear.

Comfortable shoulder and sternum strap and hip belt. The hip belt is adjustable between 25″ and 53″ but not removable. The back is made of breathable molded foam panel for extra wearing comfort.

This bag comes in 14 colours.

Here is an example of what it can fit:

  • 1 light jacket
  • 3 dresses
  • 2 pairs of sandals
  • 4 t-shirts
  • 2 tank tops
  • swimsuit
  • 4 pairs of socks
  • underwear
  • toiletries
  • makeup
  • phone charger
  • sunglasses
  • glasses
  • some other miscellaneous things (tissue packs, etc.)

If you use packing cubes it will make the organising even easier.

TETON Sports Scout 3400 Internal Frame Backpack

High-Performance Backpack for Backpacking, Hiking, Camping

Click on image for price and more information

+ Great for a few days of adventure

+ Great size for youth

+ Great customer service

+ Very popular

– Not as high quality as others

– Mesh pocket only fits small bottle

– Slightly heavier than others

This backpack is the perfect size for youth who are out for a few days of adventure. This pack has been recommended as the perfect bag for boy scouts by a scout mum.

The hip belt comes in very small size 26″ (but fits 25″) and is adjustable for wide range of body sizes. The padded back panel is perfect for carrying the bag for longer periods as it helps with air flow and gives more comfort. Adjustable straps help to fit the backpack to your size.

It has a capacity of 55 liters and weights 4.5lbs (2 kg). It measures 30″ x 17″ x 12″.

There is a sleeping bag compartment and a rain cover, as well as lots of outside pockets and straps to fit extra gear.

If this pack is not the perfect size for you check out the many different options Teton Sports has available.

Osprey Packs Farpoint 55 Travel Backpack

Click on image for price and more information

+ Backpack + detachable Day pack in one

+ Very lightweight (but can handle up to 50lbs)

+ Great quality

+ Great customer service & Osprey’s All Mighty Guarantee

– Mesh pockets for water bottle are a bit small (on day pack exterior)

– Water resistant, but not waterproof

– The frame is 1 inch over carry on size (but still fits)

This backpack is perfect for many occasions as it is so versatile; it is basically two backpacks in one, one the size of a large carry on, the other a day pack, which is removable through zip and clip.

Durable Nylon ripstop construction makes this pack last longer; it doesn’t easily show marks or scuffs.

Measures 25″H x 13″W x 13″D (M/L). Fits in overhead for many airlines, double check with your airline for size restrictions to be sure.

The lightweight construction is assisted by the LightWire frame suspension, which transfers the weight from the harness to the hip belt.

The backpack comes with padded straps and hip belt for more comfort; the mesh back panel improves ventilation and reduces discomfort and sweating. The back panel, harness and hip belt can be stowed away fully under a zippered panel.

You can access the large main compartment by pulling apart the lockable sliders. Internal compression straps keep your items in place.

This bag comes in 2 colours; the Osprey Farpoint comes in 4 different sizes, but only the 55 and 70 have detachable day packs.

Should you have any issues whatsoever, contact Osprey customer service – Osprey’s All Mighty Guarantee gives you the assurance that any damage or defect will be repaired for free, no matter how old your bag, and should they not be able to repair, they will replace the whole bag.

Osprey Packs Fairview 40 Women’s Travel Backpack

Click on image for price and more information

+ Fits most overheads

+ High quality

+ Lightweight

– not available in smaller than 21″

– more expensive than others

This Osprey backpack is very similar to the one featured above. It does not have a day pack for this size, but the 55 and 70 both have a detachable day pack.

This backpack is very lightweight and comes with a frame suspension which makes you carry the weight on your hips which is much more comfortable.

The bag comes in two sizes XS/S and S/M; it measures the same 21″ x 14″ x 9″, but the small one has a capacity of 38 liters and the bigger size can fit 40 liters. It is designed to fit in most carry on overheads (double check).

Here’s an example of what you can fit in it:

  • 6 T-shirts
  • 12 blouses
  • 2 pairs of jeans
  • 9 pairs of shorts
  • 2 dresses
  • 3 bikinis1 pair of sandals
  • 1 small towel
  • 2 books
  • a small make-up bag
  • a Ziploc of liquids
  • and other miscellaneous items

If this bag is not big enough for you or you would like one with a detachable day pack have a look at the other Osprey backpacks.

I hope you enjoyed this review of the best backpacks for traveling!

Let me know your thoughts and comments in the comment section below. I’ll be sure to get back to you soon.

Happy travels!

Bags And Suitcases is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

This is at no extra cost to you.

 

14 Replies to “What Is The Best Backpack For Traveling – 9 Best Of Backpacks”

  1. Hallo there, 

    I have been planning to go for hiking and choosing backpacks has been a huge problem for me.

    A friend of mine recommended I check out wasing 55L Internal Frame Backpack but I said I would look through all backpack reviews and choose the best one for myself.

    But frankly speaking, the Wasing backpack is surely a winner. It can do all that I am planning to get myself into.

    Thanks for the detailed information here. It sure went a long way in helping me choose the right one for me. Have a lovely day.

    1. You are very welcome. Yes, the Wasing is a pretty decent backpack for a very affordable price. But you’re also right in checking out the other ones. Thanks for stopping by. Great choice. 

  2. I’m a frequent traveler and like hiking and camping as much as I do day trips and exploring cities. Which one of the above mentioned packs would you recommend? I want something that’ll last too, so I don’t mind spending a bit more if I have to.

  3. Hi, I travel a lot for work and pleasure, especially backpacking and expeditions, and have yet to find the perfect bag. I like your site for its clean and easy to read layout, so thanks for that and thank you for reviewing some of the bags I have been looking at, especially the osprey bag. 

    Do you have a preferred travel bag? If so what is it and why. Thanks in advance. 

  4. At the end of this July I’ve actually agreed to go on a weekend hike with my brother in law across North Wales, and I’m not exactly an experienced hiker (I’ve been twice before). 

    We’ll be gone for three days, two nights, and I’m wondering which of the options you’ve covered above will be suitable for this length of hike?

    1. I’d recommend the Wasing 55, it has everything you’ll need and since you’re not an experienced hiker you might want to test out whether you like hiking before you spend huge amounts on other backpacks. 

  5. Hi Petra. I love your website ‘Bags and suitcases’ and I have visited it several times when looking for travelling gear. Your review on Back packs is very timely for me as I’m looking for several good, strong types to purchase for my grandkids for Christmas. 

    Two of the older ones that are in their early twenties now, are looking to do some backpacking in places such as New Zealand and Canada, and I immediately thought about your site. 

    As most of their travelling will be in National parks I thought that the ‘TETON Sports Scout 3400 Internal Frame Backpack’ may suit their needs. They’re both young and strong and into athletics,.Do you think these would be suitable? Jim

    1. Hi Jim,

      thank you for your compliment and for stopping by again.

      The Teton would definitely be suitable for them or you could go with the Wasing 55L for your grandkids. 

      Either would be a good fit. 

  6. Nice. Thanks for providing all the details on these packs. I like you included the downfalls too. It’s good to know up front when making a decision. 

    I’m liking the Swissgear laptop pack since it has so many compartments. Have you had problems with the zippers? 

    The Mosiso looks nice to use for a purse, especially for travelling. I had a purse stolen while travelling once. I think this would make it more secure, plus it’s nice-looking. 🙂

    1. I haven’t had any problems with the zippers of the Swissgear, no.

      The Mosiso could be worn to the front and that would make it a bit more secure if you’re worried about having things stolen.

      Have a look at my post How to keep your luggage safe for some good tips to be more secure. 

      Thanks for stopping by.

  7. Thanks for this info-packed article about the best backpacks for travelling.  A very interesting read and one that I can relate to as an avid hiker and one who likes to travel light when going abroad.

    Because my wife and I like to travel light ( don’t mind doing laundry while away) Most of the bigger packs probably would not meet my needs.  However, the MOUNTAINTOP 40L Hiking Backpack Looks like it would fit the bill just nicely for a few changes of undergarments and three or possibly four changes of other clothes as well as a few essential toiletries.

    My wife would really like the Osprey Packs Fairview 40 Women’s Travel Backpack.  She has one that is similar to it but it’s starting to get old and we should probably look at replacing it.

    Regardless of which pack one chooses, I guess it depends on where you are going.  Warm and dry would mean you could conceivably pack a little more in a smaller pack and vice-versa in cooler climates.

    As an avid hiker, the MOUNTAINTOP 40L Hiking Backpack would be just about the right size for a weekend adventure or even a long day hike where one might need extra water and maybe even extra layers of clothing just in case the weather changes.

    Sorry, I don’t have any questions but, you’ve certainly given me some things to think about, Petra.

    Wayne

    1. Yes, you’re absolutely right. The Mountaintop is perfect for weekends and long day hikes and you can fit a lot into it although it’s only 40L. 

      Thanks for stopping by. Let me know if or when you do have questions. 

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