Finding the right travel backpack can make a huge difference in how smoothly your trip goes. The best packs balance comfort, organization, durability, and style — all while fitting within airline carry-on limits. Whether you’re heading out for a long weekend or a month abroad, a well-designed backpack helps you stay organized and move easily.
In this guide, we’ve rounded up ten of the best travel backpacks available today — from minimalist designs to feature-packed carry-ons. Each one has been praised by frequent travelers for its build quality, thoughtful layout, and versatility. Below, we’ll take a closer look at what makes each of these backpacks stand out and who they’re best suited for.
Best Travel Backpacks
Peak Design Travel Backpack
Dimensions: 22 x 13 x 9.5 in (56 x 33 x 24 cm) | Weight: 4.5 lb (2.05 kg) | Volume: 45 liters
The Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is made from 100% recycled 400D nylon canvas with a waterproof 900D base for added protection. It uses weatherproof UltraZips throughout and reinforced stitching in high-stress areas. The harness system includes padded, stowable shoulder straps, a removable hip belt, and a sternum strap, while multiple padded handles allow for easy grab-and-go use. A luggage pass-through and theft-deterrent zipper pulls add functionality for frequent travelers.
The bag features a clamshell-style main compartment with multiple access points from the top, sides, and rear. Internal dividers can be used to separate gear or left open for larger packing cubes. The back panel houses padded sleeves for a laptop and tablet, and a soft-lined top pocket stores smaller valuables. External water bottle pockets expand as needed, and discreet zip pockets keep travel documents secure.
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Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Pack
Dimensions: 21.7 x 13.8 x 9.1 in (55 x 35 x 23 cm) | Weight: 3.27 lb (1.5 kg) | Volume: 40 liters
The Osprey Farpoint 40 is a 40-liter travel backpack designed to meet most domestic carry-on size requirements while maintaining the comfort and structure of a hiking pack. It features an adjustable torso length for a more precise fit and uses a zip-away back panel that hides the harness and hip belt when not in use. The main compartment opens clamshell-style for easy packing and access, with lockable zippers for added security. Inside, two compression straps keep contents in place, and a zippered mesh pocket on the front flap helps organize smaller items.
Externally, the Farpoint 40 includes dual WingJacket™ compression straps with fabric sidewalls, a direct-zip toiletry pocket, and padded top and side handles for flexible carrying options. A dedicated laptop sleeve fits most 16-inch devices, and the pack is also compatible with Osprey’s detachable Farpoint/Fairview Travel Daypack.
The Fairview 40 offers the same features in a women’s-specific fit, designed for a shorter torso and shaped harness.
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Matador GlobeRider35 Travel Backpack
Dimensions: 20.2 x 12.5 x 9 in (51 x 31 x 22 cm) | Weight: 3.4 lb (1.56 kg) | Volume: 35 liters
The Matador GlobeRider35 is a 35-liter travel backpack designed to balance carry-on compliance with full-featured organization. Built from 420D recycled nylon with PU waterproofing, it includes YKK zippers, Woojin hardware, and EVA-padded shoulder straps supported by an internal HDPE frame sheet and aluminum stay for structure. The pack’s clamshell opening provides full access to the main compartment, while a secondary top zipper allows for quick access to essentials. When not in use, the padded shoulder straps and removable hip belt can be stowed behind the back panel to create a cleaner profile for storage or transport.
Internally, the GlobeRider35 keeps organization flexible with open space for modular packing and a few built-in mesh pockets. Externally, it offers a front admin panel for small items, multiple grab handles on all sides, side compression straps, and a discreet security pocket behind the back panel.
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Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L
Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 8 in (55 x 35 x 20 cm) | Weight: 4.5 lb (2 kg) | Volume: 40 liters
The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L is designed to meet carry-on requirements for most U.S. and international airlines. Built from ECOPAK™ EPX200 waterproof sailcloth, with water-resistant YKK® zippers featuring lockable sliders, it balances robustness and utility. The harness system includes height-adjustable shoulder straps, load lifters, and a sternum strap; the padded hip belt is engineered to shift up to 80% of the weight to the hips, easing shoulder fatigue.
Opening clamshell-style, the pack reveals a main compartment with a zippered mesh divider, and a separate electronics compartment sized for a 16-inch laptop and 12.9-inch tablet. Two side water-bottle pockets flank the main body, while the front panel houses an admin pocket with organizer layout and a quick-access top pocket complete with a key clip. A flat front pocket adds just a bit of extra external storage.
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Bellroy Transit Workpack Pro 28L
Dimensions: 20.9 x 14.6 x 6.7 in (53 x 37 x 17 cm) | Weight: 2.5 lb (1.09 kg) | Volume: 28 liters
The Bellroy Transit Workpack Pro 28 L balances a commuter design with travel-ready features. It opens via a coated zipper to a main compartment that accommodates a padded 16″ laptop sleeve and integrated tech-storage space. The fabric is a recycled “Dura Weave” nylon, and the harness and back panel are built with dual-density padding and textured mesh for support and ventilation. A sternum strap is removable and adjustable, and a luggage pass-through lets the pack ride securely on rolling luggage.
On the exterior, the pack includes a front organizer pocket sized for A4 documents, a slip pocket for sunglasses, a discreet water-bottle pocket, and a side quick-access pocket. Inside, you’ll also find an Apple AirTag slip pocket built into the liner.
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Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack
Dimensions: 22 x 12 x 10 in (56 x 30 x 25 cm) | Weight: 2.9 lb (1.33 kg) | Volume: 35 liters
The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack uses a suitcase-style clamshell opening with a full-wrap zipper for easy access to the main compartment. The exterior is built from durable, water-resistant polyester and ballistic nylon paneling, and includes lockable YKK zippers for added security. The harness system features ergonomically contoured shoulder straps, a padded hip belt, and a back panel designed to distribute weight toward the hips. Both the shoulder straps and hip belt can be tucked away when not in use, and waistbelt extenders are available at no extra cost for added length.
Inside, the Allpa 35L includes a set of structured mesh compartments: one large, one medium, and one small. A padded, fleece-lined sleeve secures a 15-inch laptop, and a stretch mesh pocket accommodates water bottles up to 32 ounces. External organization includes a front accessory pocket with internal dividers and a key clip, along with three reinforced grab handles for multiple carry options. Four exterior webbing loops allow additional gear to be attached, and a roller bag-compatible pass-through strap on the back provides travel flexibility.
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Tomtoc Navigator-T66 Travel Backpack 40L
Dimensions: 20.47 x 12.99 x 9 in (52 x 33 x 22 cm) | Weight: 2.64 lb (1.2 kg) | Volume: 40 liters
The Tomtoc Navigator-T66 Travel Backpack 40L is a flight-approved carry-on made from recycled polyester fabric derived from post-consumer PET bottles. The exterior is finished with YKK zippers and reinforced stitching for durability, while the back panel features 3D padding and contoured shoulder straps for ergonomic comfort. An adjustable sternum strap and two grab handles—one on top and one on the side—provide flexible carry options. A luggage pass-through strap allows secure stacking on rolling luggage.
The main compartment opens suitcase-style for easy packing and includes a range of mesh and zippered pockets for organization. A dedicated tech compartment unzips 90°–180° for TSA screening and holds a 17-inch laptop and 13-inch tablet in padded sleeves. Quick-access pockets on the front, top, and sides store smaller travel essentials, while the bag’s overall capacity can expand from 38 L to 40 L depending on packing.
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Thule Aion Travel Backpack 40L
Dimensions: 20.5 x 13 x 9.1 in (52 x 33 x 23 cm) | Weight: 3.19 lb (1.44 kg) | Volume: 40 liters
The Thule Aion Travel Backpack 40L is made from 600D waxed canvas fabric that is both durable and water-resistant, with a finish free of toxic PFCs. The shell fabric, lining, and mesh are all constructed from 100% recycled polyester and are bluesign® certified for sustainability. The harness system includes padded shoulder straps, a breathable back panel, and an adjustable sternum strap. The pack is compatible with the Thule Aion Sling Bag (sold separately), which can double as a hip belt for additional support and quick-access storage during travel.
The main compartment opens clamshell-style and features internal compression straps to secure packed items. Inside, a removable TPU rolltop bag isolates dirty or wet gear, preventing odor and moisture from spreading. A padded sleeve protects up to a 16-inch laptop and 12.9-inch tablet, while smaller accessories can be stored in a top zip pocket or internal mesh pockets. Additional details include a dedicated water bottle pocket, lockable zippers for added security, and compliance with most airline carry-on size limits.
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Able Carry Max Backpack *
Dimensions: 20.4 x 12.6 x 7.9 in (52 x 32 x 20 cm) | Weight: 3.9 lb (1.8 kg) | Volume: 30 liters
The Able Carry Max Backpack is a 30-liter pack designed for one-bag travel and daily commuting. It’s constructed from X-Pac sailcloth with 1000D Cordura nylon reinforcement and a 420D ripstop lining for interior durability. The bag features YKK zippers, Duraflex hardware, and a structured frame sheet for stability. The shoulder straps are thickly padded and paired with a ventilated back panel and magnetic sternum strap for balanced carry. A luggage pass-through and reinforced grab handles offer multiple carry options.
The main compartment opens clamshell-style for easy packing and organization. Inside, a suspended and padded laptop sleeve holds up to a 17-inch device, along with a separate tablet pocket. The work compartment includes internal organization for tech accessories and documents, while the front quick-access pocket adds smaller mesh dividers and a removable key clip. Additional external pockets and attachment points provide extra storage and flexibility.
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Aer Travel Pack 3 *
Dimensions: 21.5 x 13 x 9 in (54.6 x 33 x 23 cm) | Weight: 4.12 lb (1.87 kg) | Volume: 35 liters
The Aer Travel Pack 3 is built with 1680D Cordura® ballistic nylon (bluesign® certified), YKK® zippers, and Duraflex® hardware to endure heavy use. Its main compartment opens in a lay-flat clamshell style, with an internal framesheet adding structure. Load lifters connect the shoulder straps to the frame, improving comfort under load. The pack also features handles on all sides, a luggage-pass through, and lockable zippers.
Inside, the Aer includes a padded, suspended laptop sleeve for up to 16″ devices, and compression straps with magnetic closures help stabilize gear. It offers quick-access top and side pockets for essentials, an expandable water bottle pocket, and a hidden tracker pocket. There are attachment points for a hip belt (sold separately) as well.
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Minaal Carry-On 3.0 *
Dimensions: 21.6 x 13.7 x 7.87 in (55 x 35 x 20 cm) | Weight: 3.12 lb (1.41 kg) | Volume: 35 liters
The Minaal Carry-On 3.0 is built to meet international and domestic carry-on limits. The exterior uses 600D Picton™ recycled nylon, reinforced with 1200D panels in high-wear areas, and finished with YKK zippers and alloy hardware. The harness system features load lifters, a four-point adjustment design, and stowable shoulder straps that can be hidden behind the back panel. A removable rain cover is included, and a hidden pocket provides secure storage for valuables.
Inside, the Carry-On 3.0 opens clamshell-style for efficient packing, with a main compartment designed to hold up to a week’s worth of clothing. The padded “DeviceNest” section secures a 16-inch laptop and tablet in shock-protected sleeves suspended above the bag’s base. Additional organization includes mesh dividers, small-item pockets, and external handles on multiple sides for flexible handling.
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How Much Should a Good Travel Backpack Cost?
A well-made travel backpack typically costs between $150 and $350. While that may seem steep—especially for travelers trying to keep expenses low—it’s one of the few purchases where quality truly pays off over time. A cheap, no-name backpack from a big box store might save money upfront, but worn zippers, torn straps, and poor support often lead to replacements after just a few trips.
Investing once in a durable, well-designed pack from a trusted brand like Osprey, Matador, or Peak Design can save both money and frustration in the long run. These brands use high-grade materials, reinforced stitching, and ergonomic harness systems designed to handle years of travel. Think of it less as a one-time splurge and more as an investment in comfort and reliability for every journey ahead.
What Is the Best Capacity for a Travel Backpack?
For most travelers, a backpack in the 35–45 liter range hits the sweet spot between portability and capacity. Packs of this size are typically small enough to meet carry-on requirements for most airlines, including budget carriers, while still offering enough room for a week or more of travel essentials. They also fit easily in train racks, bus compartments, or under seats, keeping your gear close at hand.
A smaller pack in the 25–30 liter range suits shorter trips or travelers who prefer a more minimalist setup. These bags work especially well for weekend getaways, business travel, or anyone comfortable with a pared-down packing style.
A compact pack naturally encourages more efficient packing. With limited space, you’re forced to prioritize what you truly need—saving your shoulders and back from the strain of hauling unnecessary weight. Larger backpacks might seem tempting for the extra room, but it’s easy to fill that space with non-essentials you’ll regret carrying later.
If you’re unsure about what fits in a 45-liter pack, check out our ultimate packing list for backpackers, which breaks down how to pack light without leaving behind the essentials.
Front-Loading vs. Top-Loading Backpacks
One of the biggest differences between travel backpacks is how you access your gear. Most modern travel packs are front-loading, meaning they unzip like a suitcase and open fully from the front. This design makes packing and unpacking much easier—you can see all your belongings at once and reach items at the bottom without digging through everything on top. For travelers who move frequently between destinations, front-loading designs are usually the most convenient.
Top-loading backpacks, on the other hand, open only from the top and are more common in traditional hiking or trekking packs. They’re typically lighter and may have a more streamlined shape, which can be useful for outdoor travel or long hikes. However, accessing your gear often means pulling out items layer by layer.
If your travels involve airports, hostels, or city-to-city movement, a front-loading pack is generally the more practical choice. For longer wilderness trips or situations where weatherproofing and stability matter more than accessibility, a top-loader still has its place.
Key Features to Look For in a Good Travel Backpack
When comparing travel backpacks, focus on the features that directly impact comfort, usability, and durability. A well-designed pack should make your journey smoother, not more complicated.
Access and organization are key. A clamshell or full-zip opening allows you to pack and unpack like a suitcase, while internal mesh dividers, zippered pockets, and compression straps help keep everything in place. External quick-access pockets are useful for passports, electronics, and small essentials you need on the go.
Comfort and fit are just as important as layout. Look for padded shoulder straps, a supportive hip belt, and a breathable back panel to help distribute weight evenly. Some brands also offer adjustable torso lengths or removable harness systems for a more customized fit.
When it comes to materials and construction, durability matters. Backpacks made from high-denier nylon, recycled polyester, or waxed canvas resist tears and abrasions while offering weather protection. Premium hardware—like YKK zippers and Duraflex buckles—adds reliability, especially if you’re frequently on the move.
Finally, consider travel-friendly details such as lockable zippers, a luggage pass-through strap, and handles on multiple sides. Small touches like these can make airports, trains, and bus transfers much easier to navigate.
Finding the right travel backpack often takes a bit of trial and error. Even with all the research in the world, comfort and fit can vary from person to person. The best approach is to try out a few different models—pack them, wear them, and see how they feel once they’re loaded.
A well-designed backpack should feel like an extension of you: comfortable to carry, easy to organize, and durable enough to handle years of travel. Whether you’re heading out for a weekend trip or a months-long adventure, the right backpack will make every journey a little smoother and a lot more enjoyable.
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