detour travel backpack review

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Gregory Detour 40 Backpack Review

The Gregory Detour 40 Backpack is a spacious and comfortable pack for outdoor adventurers and travelers alike, though it lacks stability to stand up on its own.

Our Verdict

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• Front zippered pocket easy to reach when wearing
• Padded shoulder straps comfortable for extended carry
• Material dries quickly
• Front-heavy when full and falls easily
• Awkward to carry while using just one strap
• Compression buckles block main compartment zipper

Technical Details

Carry-on compliance.

View 54/145 Airlines

Disclaimer: We take the measurements of the bag provided by the manufacturer and compare them to the allowance listed on airline websites. This should be used as a guideline rather than a rule. Bags can change size as you pack them out, and every airline's interpretation of compliance is different. Just because a bag is listed as carry-on compliant here doesn't mean that the airline will interpret it that way.

Like the Look

Polled on Instagram

Weight (lb)

2.25 lb (1 kg)

on bottom & part of body; 240D also on body

22 in x 13 in x 9 in (55.9 x 33 x 22.9 cm)

Notable Materials

Nylon, Polyester, YKK Zippers, Duraflex Hardware

Manufacturing Country

Philippines

Laptop Compartment Size

Warranty Information

The Gregory Lifetime Guarantee

Buying Options

Full Review

The Gregory Detour 40 backpack is no tiny pack. Measuring 22 inches tall and 13 inches wide, with an expandable depth of 9 inches, this backpack is meant to be a workhorse, not a purse. We’re able to fit the gear we need with room to spare if we’re efficient, but at its size, it’s quite a beast for someone of a smaller stature to carry around fully packed. If you’re looking for a travel pack that can handle hauling lots of gear on longer trips, this one may tick some of your boxes.

Whether we’re getting away for the weekend, hitting the pool, or going for a long hike, the Gregory Detour 40 Backpack is a comfortable way to carry just about everything. At 40-liters, this backpack does a great job distributing weight to avoid discomfort during extended carry. The curved back panel works with the natural shape of your body, though this does lead to a few issues with stability when the pack is set down, so let’s get into it.

Materials & Aesthetic

At the time of writing, it’s available in Anthracite Grey or Spark Navy. Branding is minimal, with the Gregory logo unobtrusively centered in the upper half of the pack and a smaller Detour logo on the bottom right side.

The 100% nylon exterior is easy to wipe clean and dries quickly, as does the orange inner lining—which is great when it’s packed with wet swimsuits and towels but needs to be used again the next day. The lining is made with 40% post-consumer recycled 135D polyester; it seems Gregory was thinking of the environment when designing this pack, using this lightweight, strong and eco-friendly material. The outer shell is a mix of 240D nylon and high-density nylon, keeping it light but still durable, and the bottom is high-density nylon for added resistance against damage no matter where you set the bag down.

Although the pack can expand out to 9 inches, there are two compression straps on either side to cinch it in. While we like that feature, we do wish there were strap keepers for a cleaner look and easier management. We found that the extra material swung around and sometimes caught in doors or small places.

The custom grip molded zipper pulls are a joy to use, but we found that the compression buckles block their way when opening the main compartment. All buckles are Duraflex, opening and closing with no sticking, and the YKK zippers slide easily even with the bag stuffed to capacity. The zipper on the front stash pocket features a catch you can slide the zipper pull through for security, but we found it difficult to undo on the fly, which impacted the quick-access aspect of the pocket.

External Components

The Gregory Detour 40 is a large backpack, but the padded airmesh shoulder harnesses with load lifters, padded foam back panel, and rail-adjustable sternum strap make it comfortable to carry around. While Gregory touts the back panel as being constructed with “breathable airmesh,” we found that carrying it around for hours on a summer hike still leads to a sweaty back. The airmesh does, however, add a layer of separation so that moisture doesn’t get through to your gear inside.

The front zippered pocket is easy to access—we had no problem reaching in to grab our phone or camera whenever we wanted and could even do so without undoing the sternum strap. Some team members with smaller frames also found that the load lifters help pull the shoulder harness higher on the back and bring the quick access pocket better within reach. A win-win, in our books.

The Detour 40 also has a durable water bottle pocket that’s deep and wide enough to keep even a 40-ounce bottle in place (the one pictured below is a 32-ounce Hydro Flask ), though keep in mind that larger bottles can cut into internal storage space. The pocket itself is pretty loose, but the adjustable strap at the bottom helps lock it in place.

There are two handles (haul handles, as Gregory calls them): one at the top of the bag and one on the left side. Both are made with tubular webbing, which is a fancy way of saying that the material is thicker for added comfort. They came in handy for carrying the bag over short distances when it is inconvenient to use as a backpack, but we wouldn’t recommend carrying it this way for long.

The most comfortable way we found to use the Gregory Detour 40 is as a backpack, with both straps on and the sternum strap buckled. Slinging the bag over just one shoulder for short distances did not work well due to the large padded foam back panel, which spans the entire 22-inch height of the bag and causes it to slide off if the bag is full.

Inside The Pack

The Gregory Detour 40 features two main compartments: a zippered, padded laptop compartment with a false bottom for protection, and a main compartment with internal pockets, straps, and mesh sleeves for organization.

The laptop compartment is large enough to fit a 15-inch laptop easily, and the padding helps us feel secure knowing the computer will be safe. That said, there isn’t any added cushion along the back panel, so you’ll have to rely on the frame sheet for structure and protection. There is, however, enough room to use a laptop sleeve for added peace of mind, but that’s up to you to decide whether or not it’s enough.

A smaller laptop or tablet also fits in the compartment, but since the pocket is pretty deep, it can be difficult to grab smaller tech out when it’s is fully packed. This could be a problem if you’re trying to finish up work while waiting for a flight to be called and need to make every second count. The zipper extends slightly beyond the top edges of the pack, and if the bag is fully packed and visibility is low, it’s easy to lose track of dongle adaptors or anything else in the compartment as it will slide out of reach. We recommend putting these objects in the main compartment, the external zippered pocket, or a tech pouch .

The main compartment has a U-shaped zipper that runs the entire height of the bag on both sides for a clamshell opening, which makes for easy packing. Being able to lay the pack down and fully unzip the compartment provides the opportunity to lay clothing out flat, while two sets of compression straps secure everything down during travel. We didn’t find our items sliding around once the bag went vertical.

As for internal storage, there are two mesh sleeve pockets, each big enough for a water bottle, a pair of slim shoes, or a bottle of sunscreen. At the top edge is a zippered pocket with a mesh top that’s a great place for AirPods, phone cords, and other items we want to easily access and not lose in the cavernous pack. That pocket also has a key clip inside, but it’s small and easy to miss, and the clip is so tiny that it seems rather useless for a large set of keys.

The front flap keeps its rounded structure even when open, which maintains the aesthetic of the bag no matter what you pack inside. On this is an 8-inch tall liner pocket with a hook-and-loop fastener opening for small items, but it’s hard to fit much in the narrow 5-inch opening. It easily fits a small notebook and pen, but we found it got tight pretty quickly. It could be another place to store power cords and headphones since there’s only a small gap in the closure, but we found ourselves gravitating toward that mesh zippered pocket at the top. If you’re looking for extra security, though, it’s a great spot for a wallet or passport since it’s more on the subtle side. Of course, as with all gear storage, your mileage will vary.

This roomy pack easily zips when at capacity, but we often struggled to get it to sit upright on its own. Because the bottom panel is less wide than the top of the pack and can be cinched in with the side compression straps, there is no stable bottom for the bag to sit on, and the weight forces it to fall forward. Over the course of just two weeks, this became extremely inconvenient, as we didn’t always have something to lean it on.

Durability and Testing

After a hard two week’s worth of usage, the Gregory Detour 40 still looks brand new. Dirt, sunscreen, and other detritus all wipe off quickly with a damp cloth. We took the Gregory Detour 40 on a road trip, a day trip to the pool, and hiking in the mountains, and it was a joy to use each time.

On the road trip, the separate laptop compartment made it easy to answer emails and then quickly re-stow the device on the go. A sweatshirt to keep away the chill of air conditioning and books for the long drive were easy to grab from the top of the bag.

Swimsuits and towels for three, along with sunscreen, bug spray, water, and phones all fit comfortably in the bag. We stashed sunscreen in the interior side mesh pocket and it was easy to grab without opening the entire backpack, which was convenient. After it became wet from carrying swimsuits home, it only took the Gregory Detour 40 about an hour to completely dry out, without leaving any water marks or stains.

The interior mesh sleeve pockets in conjunction with the one exterior side pocket mean the Gregory Detour 40 can accommodate three large water bottles without any tipping or spilling, which we appreciate. Cameras are easy to access from the front zippered pocket while continuing to hike, which is a feature we really appreciated. The padded shoulder straps are comfortable enough to be carried over long distances without causing back or neck pain.

Overall, however, the Gregory Detour 40 is a workhorse of a backpack. It’s constructed well with durable materials, so we feel confident grabbing it when we head out for weekend adventures.

Usage Timeline

Condition: Excellent

• Main compartment opens fully for easy packing and unpacking
• Front padded pocket is great for storing more delicate tech items
• Zippers have built-in security features
• Quick access pocket really is easy to use while wearing
• Internal liner pocket pocket great for small gear but struggles with larger items
• Zippered internal mesh pocket is a great place for headphones, cords, and other items that get lost in big backpacks
• Bag often falls over and doesn’t stand up on its own

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

These spacious and comfortable carry-on backpacks can easily replace a suitcase.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips For Buying
• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure/Joy Kim

Skip the stress of checking a bag or lugging a traditional carry-on suitcase around an airport by adding a carry-on backpack to your travel gear. Practical, functional, and hassle-free, a carry-on backpack can fit up to a week’s worth of clothes, depending on your wardrobe and packing prowess. Whether you’re backpacking through Europe or embarking on a weekend getaway, this style helps make your trip as efficient and enjoyable as possible.

We evaluated 89 carry-on backpacks in more than seven separate tests in our New York City lab and even utilized our airplane set — complete with a row of real plane seats and overhead storage bins — during the process. We then took each bag out into the world for at least six months to test its worth on a variety of trips.

Why I'm the Expert

After taking part in every single backpack test we've done since 2022, personally testing more than 50 bags, and even owning two packs from this list, including our best overall winner, I'm confident there is a carry-on backpack for every type of traveler here.

Best Overall

Cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack.

I've used this pack for over four years and I'm confident I can fit more in it than a carry-on.

There isn’t a designated water bottle holder.

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack earned our top pick as the best carry-on backpack with its perfect performance in all categories of our testing. We loved its high capacity and thought the unstructured style was ideal for wedging clothes into every corner, maximizing packing space in the clamshell-style compartments. The shell is made of a TPU-coated 1000D polyester with a rubbery feel, and although it feels resistant to liquids, the backpack comes with a rain cover to ensure that your belongings stay dry while traveling. Handles on all four sides of the backpack make it easy to carry and lift into an overhead bin from any angle. The only downside to the bag is that it doesn't have a water bottle holder on the sides, so you'll have to carry one or try to fit it in the top pocket in the front.

During testing, we weren't surprised to see that the durable-feeling materials weren't damaged at all after we repeatedly tossed the bag onto the ground. Aside from testing this bag in our lab, I personally own it and have used it for countless trips in the last four years. The quality hasn't wavered in the slightest and I typically reach for the bag since I can fit more than I could in a carry-on. Plus, with the rising costs of bringing luggage on an airplane, this bag has been a real money-saver since I can usually fit my personal items inside, too.

The Details: 35 liters | 20 x 12 x 8 inches | 3.8 pounds | TPU-coated 1000D polyester, nylon | Padded laptop sleeve

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
• PHOTO: Travel + leisure / Jhett Thompson

Best for Long Trips

Away the outdoor convertible backpack 45l.

We love how comfortable it is on your shoulders and back thanks to the soft materials and cushioned shoulder straps.

At nearly 22 inches tall, this pack may be too long for those with shorter torsos.

You'll be surprised by just how spacious this backpack is. The main compartment opens up like a clam shell for easy access to items that allowed us to fit an entire four-day packing list with ease — plus a few extra items. There are multiple large compartments, compression straps, and a few pockets in this backpack that are ideal for organizing clothes, gear, and accessories. While the 45-liter backpack can grow heavy when completely filled, the padded shoulder straps are supportive and keep you comfortable when walking for long periods of time. Plus, the convenient duffel handles allow you to switch up your carrying style if you do grow fatigued.

This backpack also sports a well-padded laptop sleeve that protected our testing laptop when we threw the fully packed bag off a counter three times. There was also no sign of rips, scuffs, or tears in the bag's fabric after our tests. This water- and abrasion-resistant backpack would be perfect for avid travels who are looking for a sleek backpack to take them from city explorations to camping adventures.

The Details: 45 liters | 21.7 x 13.6 x 9.5 inches | 3.32 pounds | Water-resistant

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Best With Packing Cubes

Asenlin 40l travel backpack.

It’s spacious and comes with three packing cubes to stay organized while traveling. 

After six months of use, the bag is scuffed up with noticeable scratches.

Perfect for travelers on a budget, the Asenlin 40L Travel Backpack impressed us with its packing features and comfortable fit. We thought the bag provided excellent organization thanks to the interior and exterior compression that provided extra room for packing. The backpack comes with three different packing cubes in small, medium, and large. We also like that this backpack includes both a suitcase strap and a handle to hold it horizontally. The backpack itself also features straps inside and a laptop sleeve to easily hold down items and pack electronics.

The design didn’t blow us away like those from some of the more costly brands, but it does have a laptop sleeve and a water bottle holder. We also liked the flexibility of being able to wear the Asenlin as a backpack, hold it like a briefcase, or use the trolley sleeve to slide it onto a roller suitcase’s handle. However, a bigger adjustment range for the chest strap would have been ideal. During our durability tests, the backpack didn’t scuff or show signs of damage. We think this budget pick is well worth the low price for those looking to get a durable, comfortable, and spacious carry-on backpack. 

The Details: 40 liters | 18.5 x 12.5 x 9.5 inches | 2.7 pounds | Polyester | 17-inch laptop pocket

Best for Photographers

Peak design travel backpack 45l.

You can access the main compartment on the bag from four different exterior zippers.

This is one of the most expensive backpacks on our list.

This 45-liter backpack has a main compartment that is spacious enough to fit clothes for at least four days, and its expansive design is helpful for packing bulky items like jackets and shoes. Placing the clothes and shoes into the bag during testing was efficient and simple thanks to a removable divider sleeve and compression straps to hold everything down securely. Designed with photographers in mind, this backpack functions similarly to a camera bag . It can fit camera cubes, and it has four points of entry to the main compartment, allowing travelers to quickly grab clothes or accessories without unzipping the backpack. There is a padded laptop sleeve and stretchy side pockets for water bottles or a camera tripod. 

Peak Design didn’t let any space go to waste on its backpack, so even the hip belt has a small pocket on it for storage and can be packed away when you’re not looking for extra support. It’s also easy to adjust all of the straps to prevent weight imbalances and pinching. Made of weatherproof and water-resistant recycled nylon, the bag held up perfectly after we tossed it on the ground, showing no signs of scuffs or damage — exactly what you want in a durable backpack . Although the price of this bag is steep, it comes with plenty of helpful features for travelers, and the stellar performance leads us to believe that it would last a long time. 

  The Details: 45 liters | 13 x 22 x 9.5 inches | 4.8 pounds | Nylon, polyester | Laptop sleeve | Expandable

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph

Best Compression

Tropicfeel shell backpack.

It features adjustable straps to change the bag's size and a removable compressing wardrobe organizer.

The handle on the top of the bag wasn’t as comfortable to hold onto as we hoped. 

We love this backpack’s thoughtful features geared toward all types of travelers. The Tropicfeel Shell Backpack has the ability to store up to 42 liters worth of clothing for a weekend or week-long trip, but you can also use it as a 20-liter backpack for day trips, sightseeing, and everyday use.

After regularly using the bag for six months, we found it to be incredibly sturdy and durable. We had no issues fitting our full packing list and found that there was plenty more room thanks to the variety of adjustable buckled straps that allow you to adjust the size of the bag. You can loosen the front buckle to allow the roll-up opening flap to expand to fit more items, and there is a kangaroo pouch at the bottom of the backpack that provides an additional six liters of space for shoes or other items you want to keep separate. There’s also a padded compartment in the back of the backpack that can fit laptops up to 17 inches long and a removable compressing wardrobe organizer that can be hung in a closet when you reach your destination.

We thought the backpack was comfortable to wear after adjusting the shoulder and waist straps, but we found that it might take some effort to get the buckles into your desired setting. The Shell Backpack didn’t show any signs of damage throughout testing, and the material is weather-proof. For travelers looking to add upgrades to their backpacks, the brand has an organization system and accessory pouches that you can add on for additional fees. If you need an all-in-one backpack, we think this backpack’s versatility makes it well worth the higher cost. Bonus, if you want a sustainable backpack , this one is made from made 100 percent recycled nylon and 64 percent recycled polyester. 

The Details: 20 to 42 liters | 12 x 20 x 7.5 inches | 3.3 pounds | Recycled polyester

Best Organization

Topo designs global travel bag 30l.

There are tons of pockets and a laptop compartment to help you organize your belongings.

After six months of use, we noticed the bag can feel quite heavy if packed full.

Packing for a trip can often feel tedious, but the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L helps make it easy and efficient. We loved how convenient it is to store a laptop up to 15 inches in the padded compartment in the back of the bag, and there are two front pockets for easy access to a tablet or phone charger. There are a ton of compartments and pockets that offer plenty of options for staying organized with small or loose items in the absence of packing cubes, with places to stash cords, travel documents, electronics, water bottles, and more.

The adjustable shoulder straps and straps that go across the chest and waist help evenly distribute the backpack's weight, making it more comfortable to carry around, although we noticed during our long-term testing that the bag can still feel heavy if you pack it completely full. The 100 percent recycled nylon material felt durable and would likely stay in good condition over time. 

The Details: 30 liters | 12.5 x 20 x 7 inches

Best Expandable

Nomatic travel pack.

The expandable zippers add an extra 3.5 inches of space which increases the capacity to 30 liters.

Some of the pockets feel unnecessary.

The Nomatic Travel Pack is the ultimate versatile carry-on backpack thanks to its expandable zippers that add an extra 10 liters of space. Ideal for an overnight trip or a long weekend getaway, the bag has a variety of pockets and compartments to efficiently organize shoes, clothes, accessories, and technology. While the number of pockets on the interior was a bit overwhelming at first, travelers who like to be extra organized will appreciate the designated padded laptop sleeve, sunglasses case, discrete passport pocket, and plethora of slip and zippered pockets in the main compartment. The handles and padded shoulder straps are comfortable for carrying the bag, and the small-to-medium size of the backpack makes it super comfortable to carry since it doesn’t feel bulky or heavy. We used this bag on a variety of international trips throughout four months of testing, and it still looks new, despite rough handling and being shoved under airplane seats.

The Details: 20 liters (expands to 30 liters) | 18.5 x 12 x 6-9.5 inches | 4.16 pounds | 16-inch laptop pocket

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao
• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure/Jessica Juliao

Matein Travel Backpack

It has several compartments for keeping clothing, shoes, tech, and accessories organized.

The materials feel a little lower in quality than other backpacks we tried.

If you’re not ready to invest in a pricier carry-on backpack, you can always dip your toes with this functional and spacious one for under $60. This 40-liter backpack has one large main compartment that can fit several tops, bottoms, and a toiletry case without any issues. We particularly love the separate footwear compartment to prevent the bottom of your shoes from coming into contact with clean clothes and that storage can even fit pairs up to size 12. In addition, there is a laptop pocket and a large front pocket with spots to put items like phone chargers, headphones, and other small accessories that could get lost easily. Compared to the pricier bags we tried, this one feels a bit lower in quality, but none of the nylon fabric tore and scuffed during our durability tests, so we still think this bag has a good lifespan ahead of it. 

The Details: 40 liters | 20 x 13 x 8 inches | 2 pounds | Water-repellent nylon

Best Waterproof

Tortuga travel backpack.

This bag is crafted from 100 percent recycled and waterproof material to protect your belongings in bad weather.

The bag can feel a bit heavy to carry when it’s fully packed.

If you’re traveling somewhere with a rainy climate, you’ll want a carry-on backpack like this one from Tortuga that can ward off the elements. It’s made with the brand’s 100 percent recycled and waterproof Shell200 or “sailcloth” material to protect your belongings and prevent bad weather from putting a serious damper on your trip. During a rainy overnight camping trip, the Tortuga Travel Backpack essentially sat in a puddle for hours, yet none of our gear or clothing inside got wet at all, and the bag was easy to clean with just a wet cloth.

This is a seriously spacious bag at 40 liters, so we found that you can seamlessly fit a week’s worth of clothing (or more) between the two clamshell compartments. Because of the split style of the bag, packing it up is hassle-free since it’s easy to see exactly how much space is left on each side. And if you run out of space in the main compartments, there are top, front, and side exterior pockets to store a laptop, accessories, water bottles, and more items that you’ll want to have handy while traveling.

The Details: 40 liters | 21.7 x 13.8 x 7.9 inches | 4.5 pounds | Waterproof sailcloth | 16-inch laptop pocket

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Taylor Fox

Best for Foot Travel

Osprey fairview 40.

It has straps that distribute the bag's weight and makes it feel lighter, which is great for walking long distances.

It’s a large bag, but it wasn’t so heavy that it was uncomfortable to wear.

For travelers journeying on foot, the Osprey Fairview wowed us with its spacious interior and comfortable fit. The straps for walking longer distances are really the best part — making your bag feel like you're carrying less since the weight is so well distributed. The bags have the same storage capacity and general style, but Osprey’s women’s backpacks are designed to fit a smaller torso with waist and chest harnesses that sit upward and outward for a more comfortable carry. In testing, the main compartment and mesh zippered pouch on the front flap proved to be spacious. There are two internal compression straps and one external strap that kept belongings secure through our rough handling, so we think the bag would provide sufficient protection if you do need to check it in for a flight. 

We appreciated the padded shoulder straps and back that made wearing the backpack comfortable, despite the weight of its contents. The Osprey Fairview bags have an internal suspension the brand calls “LightWire” that distributes the weight from the harness to the hip belt, and our shoulders didn’t hurt after carrying the backpack since most of the weight shifted to the lower body.

The Details: 40 liters | 22 x 14 x 9 inches

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure /Jhett Thompson

Best Convertible

Calpak terra 26l laptop duffel backpack.

With a modular design, we loved being able to carry this spacious pack as a duffel or backpack.

We found it was most comfortable to carry as a backpack when packed full.

The two-in-one design of this carry-on backpack from Calpak makes it the perfect piece of luggage to add to your collection. If you need to carry the backpack long distances, the padded straps offer plenty of comfort to protect the shoulders from feeling the weight of the pack, and they can be tucked away when they're not needed. For rushing off an airplane or grabbing the pack quickly, the duffel bag strap makes it easy to sling the pack over the shoulder within seconds. In testing, senior commerce editor Lydia Price preferred using the backpack straps after noting that the generous padding in the back and on the straps made the bag noticeably more comfortable to carry. I also own this bag and prefer to use the backpack straps, but I love having the option to carry it multiple ways as my needs change on the go.

Although the bag is medium-sized with a 26-liter capacity, it still has plenty of room to fit enough clothing for four or five days' worth of traveling thanks to the numerous pockets—an organizational design feature you'll find in many Calpak luggage pieces . The clamshell-style opening also makes it easy to organize items between the two compartments. The ripstop polyester fabric didn't scuff or scratch during our durability tests and we especially love that the outer material is water-resistant, which is helpful for all types of adventuring from urban to outdoor settings.

The Details: 26 liters | 18 x 12 x 7.5 inches | 2.9 pounds | Recycled ripstop polyester | 17-inch padded laptop pocket

Other Carry-on Backpacks We Liked

While we tested plenty of high-scoring carry-on backpacks, there were some that almost made our list but didn’t quite make the cut due to several weaknesses revealed during testing. 

Earth Pak Summit Dry Bag Backpack : We loved how durable, comfortable, and water resistant this 35-liter backpack is. It also comes with a waterproof phone case that kept our phone dry when submerged underwater. However, the roll top is so long and cumbersome, it makes packing a bit of a hassle.

Bellroy Transit Backpack Plus : We loved the adjustable sternum and waist straps that you can tuck into the bag when not in use, but we think there are better bags out there for a fraction of the price. 

AmazonBasics Carry-on Travel Backpack : It had plenty of compartments for staying organized and the material felt durable, but there weren’t any standout features that made it a must-have backpack. 

Vancropak Carry-on Backpack, Extra Large 40L : This backpack fits all of the packing items, and it even fits under an airplane seat, but our budget pick performed slightly better and it costs less. 

On more than seven separate occasions, we tested carry-on backpacks in our New York City lab to make sure we were creating this list with the best options from trusted luggage brands. For our latest tests, we built a specially designed airplane set that includes a row of real airplane seats and an overhead storage bin. To date, we've put over 89 carry-on backpacks through a series of trials that compared capacity, design, comfort, durability, and overall value. After completing our in-house testing, we sent the backpacks out with our Travel + Leisure editors to give us insight into how they fared during real-world travel. We have been updating this article with long-term testing insights as soon as they become available. 

To test for capacity, we began by packing the bags with three shirts, two pairs of pants, one jacket, one pair of shoes, and a toiletry bag. We noted if any space was left over as well as how functional the compartments were for organizing the contents packed. We evaluated the overall design of the bags by paying attention to how they fold out, how well the zippers and buckles work, and the functionality of each pocket or compartment. 

Next, we put on the backpacks and walked around for 10 minutes to rate comfortability. The highest scoring backpacks were exceptionally enjoyable to wear with the weight evenly distributed on the shoulders or hips.

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Then, we threw the backpacks a few feet or off a countertop to test for durability. The highest-rated bags had no scuffs or tears after rough handling, and the packed items inside remained unharmed as well. 

Our testers had no previous knowledge of the cost of each backpack until after testing was completed. This allowed us to give an unbiased rating of overall values, where the top bags were determined to be fairly priced based on a high-quality performance, especially for the pricier bags. After our lab tests, the backpacks were sent out for real-world testing for up to six months.

Tips for Buying a Carry-on Backpack

Consider under-the-seat versus carry-on bags.

Not all carry-on backpacks will fit under the seat of an airplane, but if that’s your intended use, we recommend checking an airline’s underseat dimensions before heading to the airport. Similarly, with a carry-on backpack for the overhead bin, you’ll want to double-check the airline’s carry-on size restrictions to avoid paying unwanted fees if the bag is stuffed full of clothes. 

Keep in mind what the bag will be used for

It may seem obvious, but to find the perfect travel backpack you need to first consider its primary function. For those traveling by foot, a smaller, lightweight backpack would be better for portability and comfort. For those traveling by air, a compression bag or backpack that has plentiful organization could be a better choice so you get the most out of the limited airline baggage space. When traveling by air, you might also want to consider an option with wheels for added convenience, like a rolling backpack, weekender, or duffel bag .

Frequently Asked Questions

During our test, we packed three shirts, two pants, one jacket, one pair of shoes, and a toiletry bag into each bag and often had extra space for more clothes. Many backpacks come with a laptop compartment , but you’ll want to make sure that feature is included before purchasing yours.

Carry-on size restrictions vary by airline, and it’s possible for a carry-on backpack to not fit within some limits. Most bags will have a product details section highlighting the dimensions of the backpack. If you’re looking to fit the bag solely under the seat , you should check to make sure the bag fits the dimensions while it’s packed.

It depends on the airline, where you're flying, and the kind of flight class you purchase. Some airlines only allow you to bring one item onto the plane with you, while others will let you bring a personal item, such as a backpack, and an additional carry-on item, like a suitcase or weekender bag . It's always best practice to double check your airline's luggage restrictions prior to traveling.

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After moving to New York City in the spring of 2022 to test travel gear for T+L, Anna Popp has spent countless hours personally testing more than 50 backpacks including bags on this list from Cotopaxi, Calpak, Peak Design, and Nomatic. She has been traveling with our top pick for more than four years — and even had to get everyone in her family the same bag so they would stop stealing hers.

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Table of Contents

About Samsonite

The best way to ensure that you have everything packed before you head out for a trip is by having a suitcase that can fit everything you need.

Samsonite , the world-famous luggage manufacturing company with over 34k Instagram followers and 1.5m likes on Facebook, has made a name for themselves by developing products that can hold all your travel essentials and eccentricities.

This Samsonite review will teach you about the company’s background, their products, what their customers think, and more so that you can learn whether their items are suitable for you.

Overview of Samsonite

Samsonite has been producing travel goods for all walks of life for over 100 years. The brand was founded in Denver, Colorado in 1910.

Their century of manufacturing experience means they’ve carved out a unique identity among luggage production houses. Their items usually combine a business casual flair with an everyman functionality. 

What we mean is that a Samsonite backpack, for example, is just as well-suited for a Japanese salaryman as it is for a college freshman.

Let’s open up Samsonite’s metaphorical suitcase and unpack some of the brand’s highlights:

• Peerless in the realm of luggage and backpacks
• Offers a comprehensive product line
• Suitcases and luggage are often bundled together
• Readily available through many retailers
• Free standard shipping for purchases over $150 (it’s very easy to hit that mark with luggage)
• PayPal financing options 

Our Samsonite review writers want to inform you that the brand produces suitcases, backpacks, duffel bags, laptop bags, carry-on cases, and other accessories. 

Samsonite Luggage Review

This segment of our Samsonite review will draw the curtain back on the underlying magic of the company’s best-selling luggage products.

Samsonite Tenacity 3 Piece Set BP/21″/25″ Review

This Samsonite luggage set has enough space for an entire 3-person family, granted that they can contort themselves to fit into spaces as tight as 18.0″ by 12.0″ by 8.5″.

That’s the size of the backpack included in the Samsonite Tenacity 3 Piece Set BP/21″/25″ . It comes with a polyester carry-on sized luggage and a medium-sized piece of standard luggage.

All the included items (save for the backpack) sit atop four spinning wheels, feature TSA-approved interlocking zippers , and have Samsonite’s SmartSleeve technology.

This entire set can be yours for $160 .

Samsonite Carbon 2-2 Piece Set Review

Why travel like a heathen when you can have luggage that’s as chic as the clothing inside of it? The Samsonite Carbon 2-2 Piece Set is an oil-slick pair of rolling suitcases that are as cool as a batch of frozen cucumbers.

The carbon exterior protects your belongings from shock and drops while providing scratch-proof packaging. This exterior comes in three different colors; navy, red, and silver.

Additionally, you can move the Samsonite Carbon 2-2 Piece Set while keeping it upright. The four wheels along the bottom of each suitcase are multidirectional. What that means is that they can rotate, spin, and roll in any direction.

For $190 , you can call the Samsonite Carbon 2-2 Piece Set your own go-to luggage set.

Samsonite Novaire 2 Piece Set Review

Our Samsonite review writing team didn’t know it was possible for luggage to look this suave. The Samsonite Novaire 2 Piece Set looks so refined that you could show up to one of Jay Gatsby’s parties and attract the attention of everyone there.

The polycarbonate outer casing is more than just for show though. Its shiny exterior protects it from scratches and dents, and the tough material lining should keep the product’s shape intact. 

Each Samsonite Novaire 2 Piece Set includes a carry-on bag and a large suitcase, both of which feature four omnidirectional spinning wheels, retractable handles, internal straps to secure your goods, and a TSA-approved customizable lock.

Ready to give airport security an excuse to pat you down? You can show off to them with this set for $336 .

Samsonite Backpack Review

Not all travel is about airports and bullet trains. Sometimes transportation is about walking from your bachelor pad to a 24-hour cafe to complete some last-minute work. In that case, these Samsonite backpacks may be the best bags for the job.

Samsonite Detour Travel Backpack Review

The best travel stories are often found buried within the side streets, the ignored alleyways, and the unexpected detours. You should best prepare for those unintended excursions by packing a little extra, something the Samsonite Detour Travel Backpack can help you do.

This Samsonite backpack has enough space for you to fill it with your travel essentials plus some extra goodies . What’s great about it is that this backpack will maintain its ergonomic shape regardless of how full you stuff it.

The Samsonite Detour Travel Backpack ’s polyester exterior is coated with waterproof technology. That’s great news made even better when you consider that it can hold a 15.6” laptop with space to spare.

Travel off the beaten path with this backpack for $100 .

Samsonite Novex Perfect Fit Laptop Backpack Review

The Samsonite Novex Perfect Fit Laptop Backpack is a no-fuss, no-fluff, all-purpose backpack. While we admire its versatility, we’re most drawn by its adjustable laptop carrying capabilities.

You can alter the laptop pocket to snugly house laptops from 13” to 15.6” in size . That means you won’t have to worry about your most precious piece of technology getting knocked about during your travels.

You can add this TSA-Checkpoint-approved knapsack to your collection for $80 .

Samsonite UBX Commuter Backpack Review

This Samsonite backpack is for the common man, the urban warrior, the 9-5 grinder, the one who’s always on the move – you know, someone with places to be.

That’s because the Samsonite UBX Commuter Backpack marries the comfort of foam straps with water-resistant polyester. That means this puppy is lightweight yet tense enough to hold a 15.6” laptop.

It has more than enough pockets to hold food for an entire small village along with side compartments ideal for water bottles. Thus, if you feel like instigating any food donations, use the Samsonite UBX Commuter Backpack .

This product is available for $80 though sadly it’s currently out-of-stock.

Who Is Samsonite For? 

Samsonite products are for frequently air-mile collectors as well as commuting conquistadors. Their suitcases and luggage sets seem to be dependable while their backpacks are economic in size but ergonomic in function.

Samsonite Reviews: What Do Customers Think?

The key to successful packing is establishing that every item is in its right place. All properly packed luggage should look like it was assembled by someone with a master’s degree in Tetris. But do you know what has no place among vacation packing staples like underwear, toothbrushes, and deodorant? Doubt.

You should never bring doubt with you during your travels, nor should you have any doubt in your luggage. That’s why this section of our Samsonite review will study what customers have said about the brand . That way you can decide whether these are the right carrying cases for you without a shred of hesitation.

The easiest place to find customer reception about Samsonite is from the company’s own website. Here’s a short list of the aggregate scores of the best-selling products we spoke about earlier in this Samsonite review:

• Samsonite UBX Commuter Backpack: 4.8/5 stars based on more than 430 pieces of customer feedback
• Samsonite Novex Perfect Fit Laptop Backpack: 4.7/5 stars based on more than 880 pieces of customer feedback
• Samsonite Tenacity 3 Piece Set BP/21″/25″: 4.6/5 stars based on more than 340 pieces of customer feedback
• Samsonite Detour Travel Backpack: 4.4/5 stars based on more than 130 pieces of customer feedback
• Samsonite Novaire 2 Piece Set: 4.3/5stars based on more than 220 pieces of customer feedback

Upon looking at those numbers, the only thing we can say is that that’s a lot of stars! Thankfully, we’re not the ones talking here, the customers are. And boy, do they have quite a bit to say about Samsonite.

Most Samsonite products were touted for being spacious yet compact . They could fit everything customers needed with their multiple pockets and creative design making them optimal carrying cases.

But any big bag can hold plenty of things. What customers really loved about Samsonite was how their suitcases and backpacks could fit so many items while maintaining their shape. Samsonite goods were often called easy to carry.

One perfect 5/5 star review of the Samsonite Novex Perfect Fit Laptop Backpack said that the product allowed them to remain mobile and productive. 

The customer wrote, “ I use this backpack as a mobile office. It helps me be efficient by standing upright and giving me easy access to everything in it. Once I arrive where I am working I just open up the front flap and I have access to any office-related things I might need, pens, notebook, hand sanitizer (!), etc. Not having to pack everything up when I go mobile is great, everything always has a home. ”

On the negative side of customer reception, buyers weren’t very pleased with Samsonite on Trustpilot. The poor reviews there decried Samsonite’s durability. Some customers reported that their suitcases broke after only a handful of flights.

However, airports are notoriously dangerous for luggage. They’re the leading cause of infant luggage mortality in most Western countries according to our own scientific findings. This means that poorly maintained luggage transports in airports could’ve been the reason why these Samsonite products were damaged.

We found that Amazon customers were more kind to the company. 

A 5/5 star review of the Samsonite 89431-1041 Xenon 3 Large Backpack called it, “ an excellent backpack perfect for carrying your electronics or taking as carry on luggage. It has good quality zippers and a bit of a thicker outer shell as protection. Many different sections allow for devices to be stored safely such as a laptop slip in the back section and a small fabric zip section which perfectly holds phones.”

We’ll conclude this section of our Samsonite review by reflecting upon what we learned from Samsonite customers. Those that loved their purchases claimed that the items were,

• Reliably sturdy
• Able to hold many items
• Efficient and mobile

Is Samsonite Worth It?

Based on the positive Samsonite reviews, we can say without a shred of uncertainty that they are worth looking into if you’re interested in purchasing new luggage. 

Samsonite Promotions & Discounts 

Most people reward themselves during the holidays by stuffing their faces with turkey, potatoes, and pies of all shapes and sizes. However, you’re not most people. We can tell you prefer to treat yourself with gifts that are a bit more, shall we say, sustainable.

That’s why you should look into Samsonite’s Spring event.

By using the Samsonite coupon code SPRING you could save $25 on a $250 purchase or $50 off of items that cost $300 or more.

Our Samsonite review writers also found that the company features year-round savings on certain products through their clearance section . 

Lastly, you can also enlist in the company’s email newsletter to receive news about any future promotions and for 10% off your first purchase.

Where to Buy Samsonite

You can roam if you want to, you can roam around the world, you can even roam without wings – and potentially without wheels, depending on which Samsonite luggage set you select – by purchasing the right suitcase for the job.

Our Samsonite review writers found products along the real and virtual aisles of these retailers;

• Samsonite’s website, shop.samsonite.com
• Luggage stores like Bentley and TUMI
• Online shopping centers like Amazon

Who owns Samsonite?

Samsonite is currently owned by the British private equity firm CVC Capital Partners.

Does Samsonite ship internationally?

Yikes, looks like Samsonite do not offer international shipping at this point in time. International shoppers will have to look into luggage retailers in their particular country in order to purchase Samsonite baggage. 

Where is Samsonite made?

Our crack squad of Samsonite review writers discovered that some of the brand’s products are made in Europe. That being said, the majority of Samsonite goods are manufactured in China and India.

What is Samsonite’s Shipping Policy?

Samsonite’s US shipping policy includes three different delivery options. These choices, and their associated prices, are;

• Standard shipping, $5 fee on orders up to $150 , free shipping on any orders more expensive than $150
• Expedited shipping, $20 shipping fee plus a $10 luggage surcharge
• Priority shipping, $40 shipping fee and a $15 luggage surcharge

Standard shipping typically takes around 2 to 6 business days for products to arrive once the company has sent them for delivery. Expedited shipping orders only take 2 to 3 business days to reach their destinations while priority shipping ensures that products nearly teleport themselves from the factory to your doorstep. 

Items shipped via priority shipping should only take 1 business day to deliver.

What is Samsonite’s Return Policy?

Do you want to learn about Samsonite ’s return policy? Okay, here’s everything our Samsonite review writers dug up about it.

The company offers you the opportunity to return any new or unused Samsonite goods up to 30 days after you’ve received them.

They will not refund any shipping or handling fees. Additionally, all travel items are subject to a $15 return fee and non-travel products cost $10 to send back to Samsonite.

Samsonite cannot exchange any items either. They only offer full product refunds. Anyone looking to exchange their Samsonite luggage for another piece will have to return the first product then manually purchase their desired replacement.

How to Contact Samsonite

That about wraps up our Samsonite review. However, if there’s anything you feel like we didn’t cover, or if you have any specific queries our article didn’t provide insight for, then you should reach out to Samsonite. 

Here are the main ways we recommend contacting Samsonite.

• Fill out a contact form on their website
• Email : [email protected]
• Use the chat function on their website

Please note that if you use the Samsonite website’s instant messaging feature that a customer service representative will only be available to respond during their regularly scheduled work hours. Those hours are 9:00 am to 4:00 pm EST from Monday to Friday.

Check out similar brands you might find useful:

July Luggage Review

Monos Luggage Review

Calpak Review

Rimowa Luggage Review

Away Luggage Review

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6 Best Samsonite Backpacks: Reviewed, Rated & Compared

Samsonite bags and backpacks are renowned for quality, smart design and being jam packed with features. We've reviewed and compared 6 of the best Samsonite backpacks.

All of the models might be considered similar at first glance, but read our in-depth summary below to find out which is best suited to your needs.

Samsonite Backpack Comparison Table

What makes the samsonite brand popular.

The Samsonite brand has come a long way since being founded by Jesse Shwayder in 1910. Their focus is on suitcases, and they've followed and shaped the evolution of the suitcase in the century since Samsonite was born, but the company’s range includes a large variety of backpacks, travel bags and other products.

They offer different sizes, along with quality materials. And, the best part is that you don’t pay as much as some similarly popular brands. These bags are also functional, allowing for a plethora of uses from daypacks and laptop storage to work needs.

Samsonite is a brand that's committed to providing quality bags that will stand the test of time, and focuses on sustainability. They recently supported the #KeralaIsOpen campaign in an effort to revive tourist numbers after devastating monsoon floods in the area. I don't know about you, but I love buying from brands that clearly demonstrate their commitment to social causes. 

Who are Samsonite backpacks made for?

These bags are made for everyone, although I believe they're best suited to people who generally carry a lot of items with them. That's because Samsonite pack their bags with features.

Compartments, pockets, sleeves, and holders help organize even the busiest of professionals. This is all done with an intelligent design and construction to the Samsonite range of bags.

Therefore, those who commute, travel with work, or go to the gym with all their equipment, will appreciate this backpack the most. If you need a very simplistic backpack, perhaps if you're a high schooler, then this bag is not for you.

What Did We Look At? Samsonite Bag Buying Guide

These are the components of the bags we looked at. Our quality testing and analysis of these important features help us to offer an unbiased opinion, so you can get the best products for your needs.

The material of the backpack is strong and durable. Most of these bags are made from 100% Ballistic Weave Polyester. Some of these bags are also weatherproof, ensuring your laptop is safe. But, those that aren’t waterproof are made water-resistant. Everything on the bag, such as the straps, handle, zips and the side pockets, is made to last years and not just months.

The straps on the Samsonite backpack is made for comfort. Each strap is padded and extra strong. The straps are also designed with a dual contour to help alleviate any stress on the shoulders and back muscles. This is extremely helpful for those carrying heavy loads.

One of the great things about the Samsonite backpack is the different sizes that the bags come in. There are the smaller bags, best for tablets, books and a few items, the medium size bags that are great for going to the gym and medium laptop bags for smaller laptops.

There are also the larger bags for the businessman that need to carry more than just their laptop, making it possible to carry everything that you need to have with you in a fashionable bag.

Compartments

Different Samsonite backpacks have different compartments. But in general, they have a compartment for a laptop or tablet. They also have compartments for water bottles, clothing and smaller items that could go missing in a large bag.

The larger the bag, the more compartments it has, making it ideal for everyone that is carrying a multitude of items.

Style Options

Most Samsonite backpacks come in black, which is why they're great unisex products. The only bags that are designed for woman are the handbags. They also come in other, different colors like red. 

You won’t have to worry about carrying a bag that's designed with the other gender in mind. It really doesn’t matter if you're a woman, man, girl or boy. These bags are suitable for everyone.

Samsonite backpacks mostly come with a limited three-year global warranty. The warranty only covers manufacturing defects and not damage caused by negligence. At the indiscretion of Samsonite, they'll decide if the backpack should be replaced or repaired.

6 Best Samsonite Backpacks Reviewed

If you're looking for a Samsonite backpack, then these top 6 backpack reviews will make it easier for you to decide which one you should purchase.

1. Samsonite Tectonic 2 Large Backpack

Quick Look - Bag Features

• Waterproof = No - Water-Resistant
• Number of compartments = 5 +
• Laptop sleeve = Yes - 17”
• Colors available = Black/Orange
• Size = 8.6 X 13.3 X 18 Inches
• Warranty = Yes

The Samsonite Tectonic 2 large backpack is ideal for people that want a bigger bag with all the bells and whistles at an affordable price. The bag is made from poly-ballistic fabric and is durable and long-lasting. It has a padded laptop compartment that will fit devices up to 17-inches, with a brushed tricot lining that will fit most of these computer models. This is great for every business person. The other great thing about the Tectonic is that it has a smart sleeve on the back of the bag that will ensure that the bag is always in an upright position, so your devices are better protected. The bag is only available in black with orange details. It includes a wide variety of pockets, so you can organize everything from your glasses and earphones to your credit cards, pencils, and water bottles. That's the best thing about this bag: everything fits.

• It's large enough for most laptops
• The bag is made from durable fabric that will last a long time
• The bag can be used for men or woman
• The bag can be uncomfortable if it's fully-packed

2. Samsonite Pro 4 DLX Urban Backpack

• Number of compartments = 4 +
• Laptop sleeve = Yes 13 - 15 Inches
• Colors available = Black
• Size = 12.2 X 5.5 X 17.2 Inches

The Samsonite Pro 4 is a compact design, but still, has enough storage space for a 13 to 15-inch laptop. It also has a tablet pocket, making it ideal for work or college where you usually need to take your electronic devices with you. The bag is designed to absorb shock, so if the bag falls, or if someone kicks it by accident, it should provide enough protection to your belongings. The smart sleeve is built-in and prevents the bag from falling over. This ensures that it stands up straight to protect the laptop or tablet inside it. Moreover, the bag is made from the popular Samsonite fabric making it durable and long-lasting, often more than many of their competitors. With leather details, it also includes many types of compartments so that all your specific items stay organized and in place: pencils, credit cards, keys, notebooks, and so much more.

• It's compact. For people that don’t need a lot of storage
• Laptop as well as tablet pockets
• Great size for most business people
• It's really expensive
• Might be too small for most people

3. Samsonite Modern Utility Small Backpack

• Waterproof = The Bottom Of The Bag Is Waterproof
• Laptop sleeve = Yes, 13” Sleeve
• Colors available = Charcoal Heather, True Navy
• Size = Small 15.5" X 10.75" X 6.0”

The Samsonite modern utility small backpack is ideal for school children and for people that don’t need to carry a lot of stuff with them. The bag has a fabric lining, making it durable and long-lasting. The bag has the RIPSTOP feature, meaning that it has extra-strength fibers to prevent the bag from tearing. We all know how some bags can tear and break easily, so this feature is impressive and gives this model a big extra point. Moreover, the bottom of the bag is water-resistant so your items are safe in the case that you accidentally put the bag on top of wet floor. Just like many other Samsonite backpacks, it comes with the smart sleeve feature to prevent the bag from falling over when you're letting it stand on the ground. It also makes it easier to transport if you are also carrying a roll-on backpack with a handle tube.

• The bag has a tablet and laptop sleeve
• The bottom of the bag is water-resistant
• It's small enough for children and teens
• The bag is expensive for what it is
• Only a 13” laptop can be stored

4. Samsonite Kombi Large Backpack

• Waterproof = No
• Laptop sleeve = Yes 15.6”
• Colors available = Black And Brown
• Size = Large 17.5" X 12.0" X 7.0"

The large Samsonite Kombi backpack is ideal if a large amount of storage is needed. The bag has a strong nylon lining and is made with the popular smart sleeve feature. It has a padded laptop compartment that's perfect for devices up to 15.6 inches. This bag has some specific organization features, like a keychain and pockets for pens and cards, that along with the elegant design make of the backpack an ideal option for businessmen and women . There's also a fleece-lined pocket that will help protect your phone from dust and scratches; as well as cushioned shoulder straps and a padded top handle that will provide added comfort. The Kombi bag provides stability when the bag is open so that the laptop doesn't fall and get damaged. All the details on the bag are made from genuine leather making the bag durable and long-lasting like all the Samsonite products.

• Huge bag with enough storage and compartments
• Padded laptop bag
• Many pockets for storage
• The bag is expensive
• It can be too large for some people

5. Samsonite Xenon 3.0 Slim Business Backpack

• Size = Large 16.5" X 12" X 6”,

The one thing that makes the Samsonite Xenon slim backpack so great is the material that the bag is made of. It is elaborated from rugged 1680 denier ballistic polyester for greater durability. It also has the Samsonite's smart sleeve feature, which prevents the bag from falling, keeping your items safe and secure. The laptop bag is padded for extra protection of valuable items. This bag is ideal for any business person that needs to take things like a laptop or a tablet with them to work . The one feature that's really different from this bag (compared to the previous models on this list) is the air channel system that not many other Samsonite bags have. A padded grip also ensures that it is easier to carry. The main compartment is big enough so that you can also store additional items, like your work out clothes if you're heading to the gym after work.

• The laptop sleeve can take a laptop up to 15.6”
• Large bag with lots of storage
• Durable and long-lasting
• Might be too expensive
• Only comes in black

6. Samsonite Novex Perfect Fit Laptop Backpack

• Laptop sleeve = Yes, Different Sizes
• Size = Large 17.5 X 12.2 X 7.2 Inches

The one thing that makes the Samsonite Novex perfect is its laptop compartment . It allows you to adjust the pocket for different size computers, so if you have two laptops, you can save yourself the headache that comes with choosing a bag that fits both of them. It is also helpful if you have a not-so-common computer since most backpacks are designed with the more popular models in mind. This is something not many bags are offering. The laptop compartment is also padded to protect the device from damage while stored in the bag. It's a high-quality backpack made of durable material, so it could last for many years. However, it is only available in black, so if you're looking for a vibrant design this may not be for you. The bag is on the more expensive side, but with the features that it offers, it is still a bargain.

• Any size laptop will fit into the bag
• Padded laptop sleeve
• Might be too large for most people

Negatives about the brand

One of the negative things about the Samsonite brand is that there aren’t many bags that are fully waterproof. Some are water-resistant, and others are waterproof on the bottom.

The other negative aspect of the brand is the fact that it's expensive. Cheaper versions are out there, although at times quality can be compromised.

Travel blogger Victoria at Pommie Travels commented that she isn't overly keen on the feel of the inner lining of her Samsonite bag, but other than that she loves it. 

How Do These Models Compare?

Here's some information about how the Samsonite ranges compare. This should help decide which is best for your needs.

The great thing about the Samsonite brand is that there are different sizes. You can find a small size that will only fit a smaller laptop. However, there are also larger bags that will fit laptops up to 17”. Making it ideal for business, pleasure or as a children’s backpack.

If you're looking at the price of the Samsonite brand versus other brands, you'll see that the Samsonite is more expensive than other brands. This is mostly because of the quality that the bags are made of. They might be more expensive, but they're durable and long-lasting. The cheapest options are around the $50 mark while more expensive models range close to $200.

Functionality

All the Samsonite brand bags are really functional. They're unisex bags and ideal for school , work and travel. They all have padded compartments that make them ideal to take your laptop with you. Some of these bags even have a laptop and tablet compartment.

Need a Complete Set of Bags?

Samsonite Outpost 5 Piece Nested Luggage Set

If you need to purchase a complete set of bags, Samsonite brand has this option available.

With the set, there are 5 different size bags all made from quality material and all the Samsonite main features.

The great thing about the complete set of bags is that it comes in three different colors; red, charcoal and black.

The larger bags have wheels for easy use as well.

People Also Ask (FAQs)

There are many people that have questions about the Samsonite brand that are hard to find answers for. With these frequently asked questions answered, you don’t need to find out the answers for yourself.

I need a large backpack. Will this brand be good for me?

If you need to have a large backpack, you can choose between a couple of Samsonite bags. However, the one that most people prefer is the Samsonite Novex Perfect Fit Laptop Backpack. It's one of the larger backpacks.

I need a wheeled or rolling backpack. Which one should I buy?

Most people prefer the Samsonite Large Underseater Wheeled Backpack . This is because it has all the required space and is on the cheaper side. It represents great value for money.

Can you take these as carry-on bags on airplanes?

These bags are usually considered a separate carry-on piece and most airlines will allow hand baggage plus this backpack. It’s always best to call your airline prior to flying to get an exact answer as each company’s policy can vary.

Are these Samsonite bags TSA-approved?

Yes, these Samsonite bags are TSA-approved, and this is why these bags are so much more expensive than some bags from other brands.

How do you wash or clean a Samsonite backpack?

You can wash Samsonite backpacks with soap and water. You might not want to soak them in water, but it isn’t that hard to clean them with using just soap and water and a soft cloth.

Where can you buy backpacks at cheap prices?

Amazon is offering these backpacks at cheap prices, without compromising the quality that Samsonite backpacks are offering. They have a huge variety of backpacks, so you'll find the one you need.

There are some really great benefits of Samsonite backpacks. These are the top 6 Samsonite backpacks in our opinion and offer a variety of unique features for men and women.

Whether it's for travel, work or leisure, you can be confident in purchasing a Samsonite bag .

Images via https://shop.samsonite.com

6 Best Samsonite Backpacks for Travel Under $100

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My friends often tell me I have too many backpacks. But I think we mainly disagree on what “too many” means. I am not at all an impulsive buyer, and I research every purchase thoroughly.

I can honestly say I only buy what I need to make life easier and more practical. So yes, I have more than a couple of backpacks, but each of them serves a specific purpose and they are used . Samsonite fits well into this, because the brand has developed a number of great backpacks that meet different needs .

Samsonite was not on my radar from the very beginning since I mainly knew them as a pricey wheeled luggage company most suitable for air travel . And you will find that each backpack is fitted with a smart sleeve that fits over luggage handles.

But I have grown to appreciate their backpacks just for individual use. Why? They first caught my eye because of their sustainability efforts . Not immediately in terms of recyclables, which they have only recently started to experiment with, but because they make bags that are built to last .

And yes, the initial investment may seem a bit steep compared to cheaper options, but since you are avoiding the purchase of several bags over the years with one solid choice, you are saving a pretty penny in the long run.

Bottom Line Up Front

I have provided a list of backpacks that suit different needs and situations, and each bag is a testament to the quality that Samsonite is known for. But if you are looking for one, quality backpack that will prepare you for every possible situation, I recommend the Detour Travel Backpack. Check out more details below!

My Top Picks

• Best Backpack For The Broke Maximalist : Samsonite Tectonic 2 Large Backpack . A monster of a backpack that can hold, well, basically anything.
• Best Small Backpack : Samsonite Modern Utility Mini Laptop Backpack . Small but practical bag that still offers great organization opportunities.
• Best Everyday Backpack : Mobile Solution Deluxe Backpack . The stylish bag that you can’t believe is a Samsonite.
• Best Backpack For The Traveler Who’s Always On The Go : Carrier GSD Backpack . Your backpack that is also your little office on the go.
• Best Backpack For A Weekend Business Trip : Detour Travel Backpack . Comfy bag built to keep your personal and professional belongings well organized.
• Best Secure & Durable Backpack : Quadrion Slim Backpack . Possibly the strongest backpack I have ever owned.

What I Paid Attention to When Making this Selection

One backpack is not the other, so I made a selection of tested and approved backpacks that have served me well in specific situations or for specific reasons. From a product-specific point of view, these bags are selected based on their usability, durability, and affordability .

What you will not find, is a bunch of numbers and technical details you will see on any other site as I review these bags based on my personal experiences. However, I have provided a link to each product so you can review the more technical details yourself.

All of the bags I have selected are under 100 USD , which, you may have already guessed, is not always that simple with a brand like Samsonite. But us budget shoppers need quality as well. So, I hope that my selection will help you find the budget Samsonite Travel Backpack that will serve you well for many years to come. Check out our guide on how to find the best luggage here! 

Best Samsonite Travel Backpacks Under 100 USD

Best backpack for the broke maximalist: samsonite tectonic 2 large backpack.

Okay, so I am not a maximalist at all. But certain situations call for maximalist needs. Back in my teaching days when I was also already writing and hopping around a lot, I needed quick access to many different things. Pens, phone, chargers, laptop, papers, documents, schedules, all of it.

The Samsonite Tectonic 2 large incorporates all of the elements Samsonite is so well known for without breaking the bank. The bag is made from durable, poly-ballistic materials, and can fit laptops up to 17 inches in its padded sleeve. The padded straps feel pretty comfy when worn, except when the bag is poorly packed to full capacity.

I have had it happen that, quickly in-between tasks, I stuffed a sweater in the bag, and it gave me a bit of a sore back because it bulked up in an odd way. But better packing can solve this issue.

This is the ideal backpack for the business traveler who needs lots of space to separate different objects, both big and small, and make them easily accessible.

Best Small Backpack: Samsonite Modern Utility Mini Laptop Backpack

This little gem proves that great backpack can come in small sizes! I have often seen this one marketed as a good choice for school children, and I can see why.

It is compact, it is very durable with added RIPSTOP feature, and it is lightweight. But that also makes it a great backpack to hop around in if you are not one to bulk up on many items. If I don’t need to bring a lot of stuff but still need a professional bag, I use this.

The smart sleeve feature keeps the bag upright when sitting on the floor, and if this floor should be wet, the waterproof bottom can protect your belongings. I love this feature because I have put my bags down in icky stuff before.

Best Everyday Backpack: Mobile Solution Deluxe Backpack

In the same line as the small backpack that I mentioned in the previous section, this one is for the lovers of simplicity. But what is different about this one, is that I like to use it for everyday wear as well as functionality because it is one of Samsonite’s more fashion-forward pieces.

One of the downsides to shopping for Samsonite bags is that they can very quickly look like many variations on the same bag. But this one has a rather unique look about it.

Unlike the other backpacks on the list, this one only comes with one bigger compartment that is subdivided into smaller ones and some exterior pockets. So, you can’t bring too many items along with you. But for the stylish professional heading out for the day or to a meeting, it is perfect.

View in Samsonite shop

Best Backpack for the Traveler Who’s Always on the Go: Carrier GSD Backpack

I like to refer to this backpack as a little office on the go. There are very detailed organization options for all your belongings, and there is even a USB port to charge your phone.

Although the capacity is less than the Samsonite Tectonic 2 Large Backpack that I listed as the first backpack, it is more comfortable even when fuller because of its ergonomic build. That being said, the side pockets provided for drinks do fill up as the bag expands. I would select this one specifically for long travel times.

Best Backpack for a Weekend Business Trip: Detour Travel Backpack

Back when I was still working in the tourism industry, I had to take the occasional weekend trip to neighboring counties. I had to make sure I could pack items for rest and relaxation as well as business gear I would need for meeting and presentations. And this bag is a lifesaver.

Easy to travel with, especially when you tend to hop on and off of trains as much as I do, and versatile to carry different types of clothes as well as documents and hardware.

The water-resistant polyester also protected me from quite some rainfall, and I was able to keep my laptop and important documents dry. This was a concern at the time since I read it was “water resistant” and not “waterproof”, but fortunately, it can handle quite a beating from the elements.

Best Secure & Durable Backpack: Quadrion Slim Backpack

I cannot break this bag. I am not saying I tried to break it intentionally, but I tend to treat my bags with less respect than they deserve. And yes, it is true, all of Samsonite’s bags are built for durability, but this one goes a bit further by reinforcing the bag with Kevlar fibers.

For me, this also gives it an extra sense of safety and security against temperature shifts or any other climate-related influences that could potentially be harmful to the hardware you are carrying.

Answer: Samsonite sells luggage, more specifically suitcases, laptop bags, travel bags, and backpacks. Since the brand has specialized in each important type of bag, they also sell sets that are perfectly balanced, and each piece complements the other.

Answer: Samsonite bags are known for their usability and durability, so they are ideal for any type of traveler who needs a very practical bag. The type of traveler who benefits most from Samsonite would be the business traveler because Samsonite backpacks are equipped with laptop sleeves, multiple compartments, and some even with USB ports.

Answer: Samsonite is a very sustainable brand in that you will not need to replace your bags anytime soon. The durable designs are made to last. However, Samsonite has been investing more in different aspects of sustainability and has started to produce bags that are at least partly recycled. If you want to learn more about his, have a look at Samsonite’s NuRoad series .

The Takeaway

I hope this list has provided you with all the facts you need to make an informed buying decision. Every bag has its own features that make it special, but what you will find in all of these, is a hardwearing and highly functional backpack. So, the choice is yours!

As I mentioned in the beginning, if you are looking for that one bag that will prepare you for every situation that may come your way, the Detour Travel Backpack will not disappoint. Check out our guide on the best travel gear here !

But, if I can add one more suggestion if you are looking for a smaller, more manageable backpack that doesn’t need to fit a million different things, I highly recommend the Mobile Solution Deluxe Backpack!

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Reviews & Ratings for Gregory Detour 60 Backpack — 1 review — Page 1

Great backpack ever.

6 Best Samsonite Backpacks of 2024 | Tried & Tested

Are you looking for a vacation experience that is free of worry and doesn’t require you to pull a heavy suitcase or check-in bag at the airport? Consider bringing a Samsonite backpack  with you when you travel.

It is not only effective but also convenient, as it reduces the need for carrying bulky luggage. A samsonite laptop backpack can fit an entire week of clothes, depending on your packing skills.

Samsonite backpacks makes traveling easy and fun, whether you’re backpacking around Europe or taking a weekend trip.

Table of Contents

Our Top Picks Samsonite Backpacks

I examined and reviewed 6 Samsonite backpacks based on capacity, comfort, durability, and design.

Samsonite Detour Travel Backpack

The Samsonite Detour Travel Backpack was tried first and the modern and contemporary design, along with the rich set of features, left a positive impression. The backpacks have a classic design that is perfect for travel.

The detour travel backpack samsonite comes equipped with a tablet pocket, which offers a dedicated space to securely store your tablet. The main compartment provides sufficient storage space, allowing for easy transportation of all necessary items.

It comes with an Air Channel System to improve comfort during prolonged use. The backpack features air mesh padding and lumbar support on the back, which enhances airflow and offers ergonomic support.

These backpacks are a great option for those who travel frequently for camping . The Samsonite Detour Travel Backpack review highlights its durability, organization features, and comfortable design, earning positive feedback from users.

• Excellent organization
• Perfect size for travel
• Fits well on a roller suitcase
• Multiple compartments
• Comfortable to carry
• Carry handle collapses, hiding zippers
• Zipper pulls can twist and get stuck

Samsonite spectrolite 3.0

Samsonite’s Spectrolite 3.0 collection is aimed at making business travel smoother and more stylish for professionals on the go. One standout piece from this range is the Spectrolite 3.0 Backpack 15.6″. It’s designed to keep your belongings organized and easily accessible throughout your journey.

This backpack is more than just a stylish accessory – it’s a functional companion designed to streamline your travel experience. Inside, you’ll find a well-structured main compartment with designated slots for documents, ensuring that your important papers stay crisp and organized. Additionally, there’s extra space that can expand by 3.5 liters, providing flexibility for those times when you need to pack a little extra.

Samsonite Spectrolite 3.0 review showcases its organized compartments, expandable capacity, and convenient features, solidifying its status as a top pick for discerning travelers.

• Expandable capacity by 3.5 liters
• Water-resistant laptop/tablet compartment
• Adjustable straps for device security
• Multiple zippered pockets for extra storage
• Built-in USB port for device charging
• Price may be higher compared to other backpacks
• Limited color options

Samsonite Leather Backpack

The Samsonite Classic Leather Collection seamlessly blends sleek and modern designs with a touch of timeless heritage, making it a highly regarded line. The collection is made of high-quality top grain leather, which gives it an elegant look and ensures it will last for a long time.

As a reviewer, I must say that the Classic Samsonite Leather Backpack is a standout option within this impressive collection. The Samsonite leder rucksack seamlessly blends traditional appeal and contemporary practicality, making it a perfect partner for the modern-day professional.

The bag’s roomy interior can easily fit two laptops, work documents, fidelo wallet and other accessories, helping you stay organized and ready for anything.

• Sturdy and durable
• Suitable for smaller essentials
• Attractive design
• Protects laptop and devices well
• Fits well under a plane seat
• Limited space for larger items
• Overstuffing can affect the bag’s structure

Samsonite Wheeled Backpack 

The Samsonite wheeled backpack is made of Rip-Stop fabric, which is highly resistant to tears and pulls, ensuring durability. The design of this product includes features such as in-line skate wheels, an ice-pick pull handle, and contoured straps with extra padding to ensure maximum comfort while traveling.

This is the best samsonite rolling backpack for travel and is designed with organizational pockets that are specifically meant for small technology devices and accessories.

The Samsonite laptop backpack can fit laptops up to 17 inches in size. This ensures that your laptop is well-protected while you carry it around.

• Spacious and can hold various items
• Versatile, can be used as a backpack or rolling bag
• Easy conversion from backpack to a rolling bag
• Strong zippers
• Durable wheels
• Tips forward when loaded with heavy items
• Flimsy fabric on the front
• The handle cover makes it difficult to access when wheeling

Samsonite Mobile Solution Deluxe Backpack

The Samsonite Mobile Solution Deluxe Backpack is made of long-lasting nylon fabric with vinyl trim and a water-resistant coating for durability and protection from the elements.

Inside the backpack, you’ll find an interior padded tech panel designed to fit most laptops up to 15.6″ vertically, as well as tablets up to 9.7″. This padded panel provides secure protection for your devices while on the go.

It has two interior zippered pockets that offer secure storage for smaller accessories, keeping them neatly organized and easily accessible.

On the exterior, there are side pockets that can be used to store smaller personal items or watch travel cases . The key leash in the right pocket is a convenient feature for keeping your keys secure and easily accessible. This samsonite backpack women is also perfect for petite females, making it an ideal choice as the best travel backpack for petite women .

• Spacious and can hold multiple items
• Sturdy construction and holding up well
• Easy access for TSA and travel purposes
• Versatile and convenient for airport travel
• Fabric doesn’t stand up on its own
• Handles can dig into the shoulder when the bag is heavy
• Lack of a small outside compartment for a phone

Samsonite Tectonic Backpack

The Samsonite Tectonic Backpack in Black is specifically designed to accommodate laptops up to 17.3 inches in size. With dimensions of 32 x 20.5 x 48 cm and a capacity of 27.5 litres, this backpack provides ample space for your belongings while remaining lightweight at just 0.82 kg.

One standout feature of this backpack is the smart sleeve function, which allows it to quickly and securely slip over the handle of wheeled luggage. This feature adds convenience and eases your travels, allowing you to navigate airports and other busy spaces with minimal effort.

For added organization, the backpack includes a service pocket with a soft-touch lining. This pocket is designed to safely store small essentials such as sunglasses, tickets, and other personal items that require extra care and protection.

• Plenty of pockets and compartments
• Helps keep belongings organized and secure
• Spacious enough to fit various items
• Durable and looks great
• Straps can slip off shoulders occasionally
• Not-so-good finishing quality

Samsonite Classic Leather Backpack

The Samsonite Classic Leather Backpack in Black is a sophisticated choice for professionals. It comes in one size. The product includes a padded laptop pocket designed specifically for a 15.6″ laptop, ensuring your device is safe and secure while on the go.

The backpack provides plenty of space and organization options with its full-sized deluxe design. The front organizer pocket of this product features a tablet pocket, two phone pockets, pen pockets, and a mesh zip pocket, providing a convenient storage solution for your essential items.

The support provided by the padded Air mesh comfort straps can help reduce strain on your shoulders. If you’re looking for more comfort for your shoulders, then Nike Elite Backpack with bubble straps is also an excellent choice.

• Stylish and roomy design
• Distributes weight well
• Good quality leather
• Leather flaking in some areas after a month
• The front of the bag ripped off due to a snagged zipper pull

Tips for Buying the Best Samsonite Backpack

Identify your requirements

Think about what you need and how you typically use things. Do you need a backpack for work trips, weekend getaways, or hiking trips? The correct size, features, and durability can be chosen if you know what you’re looking for.

Check Specifications

Check the backpack’s measurements and capacity to make sure it suits your needs. Think about the dimensions of your laptop and other electronics, as well as the space you’ll need for clothes and other personal items.

Assess the quality and durability

Samsonite produces high-quality goods that stand the test of time. Check if the textiles and zippers are sturdy enough to last through repeated uses and probable wear and tear. Comfortable features, such as padded straps and back panels, should be prioritized. When carrying heavy items or for extended periods of time, these features can make a huge impact.

Check Storage

Look at the backpack’s storage options including pockets, dividers, and compartments. Make sure they allow you to store items neatly and quickly access what you need.

Check Alternatives

Look into another option as well that might be of interest. A backpack with a SmartSleeve, for instance, may be easily attached to a rolling suitcase, making it ideal for frequent fliers. Make sure you’re getting the greatest product by checking the pricing of each alternative.

Check Reviews

Spend some time reading the feedback left by people who have already bought this particular type of bag. Their comments can shed light on the backpack’s functionality, longevity, and comfort level.

These suggestions will help you choose the best Samsonite backpack for your needs. Find the appropriate backpack that satisfies your demands for everyday use or extended travel by keeping in mind your personal tastes and requirements.

Final Thoughts

In Conclusion, Consider including a Samsonite backpacks in your collection of travel accessories if you want to maximize your ability to enjoy your time away from work or school without the burden of lugging around big baggage or having to check your belongings.

Samsonite Travel Backpack give you the versatility and functionality you require, whether you’re going on a small weekend trip or backpacking throughout Europe for a month’s worth of adventures.

Samsonite offers a wide range of options when it comes to luggage and backpacks, including the Samsonite Faneuil Jay backpack . Whether you’re looking for a backpack for daily use, a suitcase for travel, or any other type of luggage, Samsonite likely has something to suit your requirements.

Is Samsonite a good brand of backpack?

Yes, Samsonite is generally considered a good brand of backpacks. They are known for making durable, high-quality goods that can handle the wear and tear of travel.

Where is Samsonite luggage made?

Samsonite’s producing plant in Nashik, India, makes up about 40% of the company’s hard luggage. It has two Hungarian assembly units. These facilities help Samsonite produce and assemble premium luggage and meet demand.

Why is Samsonite so expensive?

Most of Samsonite’s hard-sided bags are made of Polycarbonate, which is an expensive material to make. It’s the most expensive type of plastic used to make luggage, and PC bags are usually pretty expensive.

This article contains affiliate-links, As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. 

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The 3 best travel backpacks for men (also good for work).

Explore the top hands-free travel bag options for every type of journey.

The Best Travel Backpacks for Men

Courtesy of Peak Design

The Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is the top backpack choice for men.

Whether you're into rugged adventures in the wilderness or getting lost in bustling cities, a backpack may be the most essential piece of travel gear there is. If you choose your pack right, it doesn't need to be something you only use for your vacation: Some of the best options out there are ideal for both leisure and business travelers, and they're so stylish and professional that you can easily take them with you to work. No matter what kind of traveler you are, this trio of the best backpack options – compiled with the help of travel experts and consumer reviews – has got you covered.

Read on to discover the top travel backpacks for men from U.S. News.

The Top 3 Travel Backpacks for Men

• Best Overall: Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L
• Jump to features and traveler insights ↓

Best Overall, Budget Pick: Inateck 40L 17-Inch Carry On Travel Backpack

Best small: zomake ultra lightweight packable backpack 25l.

For more information on how to choose a backpack for travel – and how to pack it – check out the FAQ section at the bottom of this page.

(Note: Prices were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to various factors. We update this article quarterly to ensure the bags we're recommending are in stock and continue to have great overall reviews from consumers, while also considering new product launches. Dimensions are listed in order of length by height by width.)

Best Overall Travel Backpack: Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

Dimensions: 13 x 22 x 9.5 inches | Weight: 4.5 pounds

What sets it apart: If you're looking for the ultimate in convenience while traveling, Peak Design's 45-liter Travel Backpack is a serious winner. The bag's two main compartments can be accessed from the front, back and sides, so there's no need to stress about accessing those socks or shirts you packed in the deepest part of the bag. It's the kind of bag where everything has its place: There are mesh pockets inside the main compartments, two hidden external pockets for valuables like your passport, and an easy-to-access top pocket on the outside for anything you need to get quickly, from keys to boarding passes. A padded sleeve inside also helps to keep your laptop or tablet safe. There are also straps to attach equipment like a tripod to the outside of the bag.

The Travel Backpack isn't just for weekend trips – if you're not a compulsive overpacker, it's feasible to use this as your main piece of luggage for a weeklong trip or more. The bag can be both expanded and contracted beyond this size, in case you do some shopping along the way or want to use it as a daypack. In its non-expanded form, this carry-on backpack is also within the size limits of many international airlines and some domestic ones. It's only a half-inch too deep for some airlines like United and Delta, so if the bag isn't jam-packed, you may still be able to get it on board – although this is very much at your own risk.

With an industrial-strength nylon-canvas shell that's waterproof, this backpack is also a safe bet for outdoorsy travelers who may be exposed to the elements. You can choose between two colors: classic black, or the muted-green sage option. Travelers looking to save have the option to buy pre-owned backpacks directly from Peak Design's website for substantially reduced prices (although stock and prices for these secondhand items vary).

Travelers appreciate: Owners of this bag praise it for its massive capacity, with several saying it is deceptively small for the amount of clothes, shoes and toiletries the bag can fit.

Price: $299.99 or less Shop now: Peak Design | Best Buy

Dimensions: 21.65 x 13.4 x 7.87 inches | Weight: 3.52 pounds

What sets it apart: This sleek black backpack from German company Inateck checks a lot of boxes. It's both professional and stylish, with plenty of capacity for a weekend trip or longer, and with a price tag under $60. With a rectangular shape and a main compartment that can be zipped open, this 40-liter bag can be packed like a suitcase. That compartment also has mesh pockets with zips so that you can squirrel away smaller items without losing them in the bag's spacious interior.

A smaller zippered compartment that sits next to the wearer's back offers a safe place to stash a 17-inch laptop and a 13-inch tablet, as needed. Security-conscious travelers, take note: Both the laptop compartment and main compartment feature dual zippers that can be locked (although you'll need to provide the lock).

There are two smaller pockets on the front of the bag for easy access to essential items while traveling, and a semi-hidden pocket on the back (which would sit alongside your body) as a safe place for passports and other valuables. If you're not using the bag's full capacity, there are also compression straps to make the pack a little more compact. The company also includes a waterproof cover in case you're traveling through rainy weather.

Given its size, this Inateck pack should be accepted as cabin baggage on a fairly wide range of airlines both domestic and international. Of course, be sure to double-check your airline's baggage rules, as a limited number of airlines draw the line at 21 or 21.5 inches in height, such as Aeroméxico, Air Canada and Canadian carrier Westjet.

Travelers appreciate: Buyers of this bag rave about how much it can fit and its hidden pockets. Many note its lightweight construction makes it comfortable to carry, and that it works well for business travelers.

Price: $58.99 or less Shop now: Inateck | Amazon

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Dimensions: 16 x 10.6 x 7.9 inches | Weight: 0.64 pounds

For a small but mighty bag that's ideal for day trips up to overnight or weekend trips, look no further than this uber-functional option from Chinese company Zomake. Sold in a wide selection of colors from neutral black or gray to light blue or bright orange, this lightweight pack is made with water-resistant nylon for anyone embarking on outdoor activities.

The backpack offers three zippered compartments: The main chamber should comfortably store bulkier items like everyday clothes or a light jacket, as well as a small to midsized laptop up to around 15 inches.. Meanwhile, two front pockets offer easy access to essentials like snacks, important documents, a cell phone, or whatever else you may need to access quickly or repeatedly. There are two mesh pockets on the side for water bottles or other necessities.

For flyers, this backpack could count as your personal item, leaving you free to bring another main piece of carry-on luggage if your airline ticket allows this. Alternatively, the bag can be folded up into a tiny pouch measuring 5.5 by 6.7 inches – so if you're on a bigger trip, you can pack it in your other luggage and grab it out for day-to-day use while traveling.

If you're in need of something bigger or smaller, Zomake has a range of other bags with similar designs, mostly around the $20 mark.

Travelers appreciate: Wearers of this bag like the wide and comfortable straps, along with the amount of items that fit in the bag, and the way it folds and packs easily

Price: $20.99 or less Shop now: Amazon

Frequently Asked Questions

There are many details to consider when it comes to choosing the perfect travel backpack. Whether you want it big or small, stylish or functional, or equipped to protect laptops and other important items, one of the most important features to look for is the bag's organizational layout.

Rudy Maxa, host of the TV series "Rudy Maxa's World" and a convert to travel backpacks, likes options with lots of nooks and crannies to hold everything from earphones to magazines to travel documents. Wendy Perrin, travel expert and founder of travel planning site WendyPerrin.com, agrees, saying she's a fan of compartments when it comes to her travel backpack and likes the ability to get to her items quickly.

Tom Wahlin, travel gear expert and founder of Pack Hacker, says he prefers a backpack that combines spacious sections with smart organization. He recommends using packing cubes to organize items in the backpack's main compartment.

Weight should be a consideration as well. While you may need something more durable for long outdoor adventures or round-the-world trips, a lightweight travel bag can be easier and more comfortable on your back for daytrips, sightseeing or day-to-day travels. Wahlin errs on the side of going lighter, noting a backpack can be both lightweight and durable. (However, if a heavier bag has the appropriate supports, such as chest or hip straps, the bag's weight may be less of an issue.)

Wahlin also suggests choosing a bag with durable zippers. "We typically look for Japanese YKK zippers," he says. "They're tried and tested and are on most of the best bags out there."

There's no one-size-fits-all answer to this question – the perfectly sized backpack might depend on whether you're a heavy packer, whether you need it for multiday trips or quick flights, and various other factors. However, there are still some general guidelines to consider. Take note: Backpacks are usually measured by their volume in liters, even in the United States.

If you only need a smaller backpack – for example, for daylong excursions or to carry on the plane while most of your stuff goes in a separate suitcase – a 20-liter (5.3-gallon) backpack should suffice. If you're using a backpack as your primary baggage, you'll want to choose something a little larger. Bags in the 25- to 30-liter range are usually considered good for shorter trips, from an overnight stay or weekend away up to five nights (at least if you pack wisely). For longer trips where your backpack is your main luggage, you may need a pack with a volume of up to 40 or 45 liters.

But, pay attention: If your travel plans involve flying, make sure that you're bringing a backpack that fits within the carry-on limits of every airline you'll be taking. This is particularly important if you're flying with budget airlines, as they tend to have more restrictive rules on baggage size (and often enforce those rules rather strictly). Backpacks with a volume of 35 liters or less should be accepted on most airlines, and you may be able to take a backpack of up to 45 liters on airlines with a more generous allowance, so check with your carrier before you leave.

Think about two things when preparing your backpack for travel: what to pack and how to pack it. If you're bringing a backpack in addition to other luggage such as a checked suitcase , try to put only the necessities in the backpack. For a long flight, for example, these items could include important travel documents like passports and boarding passes; a few basic toiletries such as your toothbrush, toothpaste and deodorant; a laptop or tablet for work or entertainment (plus headphones); some extra clothing (especially if you're going someplace with a different climate); and snacks and a bottle of water or something to drink.

If you're flying, remember to comply with the Transportation Security Administration's rules for what's allowed in your carry-on : Containers of liquids and the like can't exceed 3.4 ounces each and must fit in a quart-sized bag, so you can't bring drinks through airport security, although an empty water bottle is allowed.

When you're packing your bag, keep the items you'll need more often in the most accessible places. So, consider putting your passport , headphones and lip balm somewhere close, such as the exterior pocket – and definitely not at the bottom of the main compartment underneath all your other possessions.

Once you've put those necessities in easy-to-reach places, you can pack the rest of your belongings and travel accessories . Think about weight distribution here: Ideally, you'll want to put the heaviest items (for example, laptops) close to your body, so your backpack won't weigh so heavily on your shoulders and will be more comfortable. Pay extra attention when packing delicate or breakable items, like sunglasses or electronics. It's best to put these in the exterior pockets of your pack so they can't be crushed by heavy items in the larger main pockets. Protective cases are also a wise purchase for items like glasses. Of course, if you're carrying a laptop or tablet and your backpack has dedicated pockets or sleeves for these items, use them.

Read: Things You Should Always Pack in Your Carry-on Bag

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Tim Forster is a U.S. News & World Report contributor. As someone who mostly travels with carry-on luggage, he's an expert when it comes to backpacks. Forster used his travel experience and research expertise to write this article.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Travel Toiletry Bags
• The Top Fanny Packs
• The Top Travel Neck Pillows
• The Top Sleeping Bags for Backpacking and Camping
• The Top Carry-on Luggage Pieces

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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 Travel Backpack

By Geoffrey Morrison

A travel backpack easily carries all your stuff while letting you navigate airports, subway stations, and city streets.

After traveling with travel backpacks for years across dozens of countries, we recommend the new versions of Osprey’s Farpoint 55 and Fairview 55 travel packs.

These bags fit everything we need for trips ranging from just a week to months of continuous travel. They come with a sizable daypack and are even airline-carry-on friendly.

They’re also highly adjustable and well padded, meaning that not only can you get a perfect fit, but the packs will also remain easy to carry and comfortable to wear for long treks, even if there are stairs, cobblestones, or narrow alleys in your way.

Everything we recommend

Osprey Farpoint 55 Men’s Travel Pack

The best travel backpack for those with taller torsos.

Comfortable, adjustable, and carry-on capable, the Farpoint has everything we needed for a week, or even months, of travel.

Buying Options

Osprey Fairview 55 Women’s Travel Pack

The best travel backpack for those with shorter torsos.

Comfortable, adjustable, and carry-on capable, the Fairview has everything we needed for a week, or even months, of travel.

Upgrade pick

Salkan The Backpacker

More stylish, with more padding.

This attractive but expensive travel backpack has customizable straps and great, cushy padding. It comes in only one size, however.

I traveled with a Farpoint 55 for years, across dozens of countries for months at a time. In 2023, Osprey released new incarnations of the Farpoint 55  and the sized-for-smaller-torsos Fairview 55 .

These new versions mostly kept what we liked about the previous ones and fixed what we didn’t. Best of all, they’re among the least expensive travel backpacks available. After several years as runner-ups, the packs are once again our top picks.

The front of the main pack still unzips like a suitcase, so you can easily fit and access a week’s worth of clothes and toiletries. The daypack, which attaches to the front of the larger pack, has room for camera gear, daily essentials, and a small laptop (via a built-in sleeve). The main pack’s straps can tuck behind a zippered flap, so they won’t catch on anything if you check your luggage.

The best change: The main packs are now overhead-bin-sized for most airlines. (You’ll have to use the daypack as your underseat bag.) Other notable updates include height-adjustable shoulder straps and big exterior pockets on the daypack. Previous versions of these bags used ripstop nylon. The current one uses a heavy-duty recycled polyester, which held up well during a six-week trip across Europe.

Osprey offers a lifetime warranty.

The Salkan The Backpacker looks and feels like a higher-end travel backpack. The polyester cloth feels extremely rugged, and there’s extensive padding in every place the pack touches your body.

Available in black and lightish green, The Backpacker has nine color options for its exterior compression straps, so you can mix and match based on your preferences—or even change them up. This gives The Backpacker the most customizable palette of any of our picks.

While looking more stylish on TikTok and Instagram isn’t generally a primary consideration for us, overall The Backpacker feels well made, and it has many of the same thoughtful features as our top and runner-up picks, including lots of pockets, smooth zippers, and height-adjustable shoulder straps.

These are offset, however, by a much higher price. Also, the main pack is technically too large to be a carry-on for most airlines, and the bag comes in only one size. (Salkan says it’s best for people 5-foot-6 to 6-foot-4).

The research

Why you should trust me, who this is for, how we picked, how we tested, our pick: osprey farpoint 55 travel pack and fairview 55 travel pack, upgrade pick: salkan the backpacker, the competition.

I’ve lived, worked, and visited 60 countries on six continents, as well as all 50 US states. I spent the majority of 2014 through 2020 traveling. Over the last few years, I’ve done a mix of extended road trips and multi-month international adventures. For all those years, I lived out of a backpack while abroad. I’ve also traveled in Africa, China, and throughout Europe with a variety of terrible backpacks and luggage, so I know what’s best to avoid.

In addition to covering travel gear here at Wirecutter, I write about travel and tech for CNET , Forbes , and The New York Times itself, and I have my own YouTube channel . My first travel book, Budget Travel for Dummies , came out in January of 2024.

A travel backpack is for people who want to travel around the world unencumbered by heavy, slow-moving wheeled luggage. An internal-frame backpack in the 50- to 65-liter range has more than enough room for all of the possessions you need to travel anywhere for an indefinite amount of time—as long as you’re okay with doing laundry once you get to a destination. (If you’re going to carry heavy jackets, going-out clothes, multiple pairs of footwear, or other bulky gear, you may want something a tad bigger .)

A travel backpack is not for business travelers who’d like to maintain appearances, nor is it for outdoor enthusiasts looking to spend six weeks hiking in Patagonia. If you prefer something that rolls, check out our guide to the best carry-on luggage . And if you want something that you can carry on your back for shorter periods of time, that’s business-casual-friendly, and that you won’t ever need to check, see our review of the best carry-on travel bags .

Based on my experience and research, we looked for travel backpacks with the following qualities:

• Fifty to 65 liters, including a daypack: We looked at bags between 50 and 65 liters (including an integral, removable daypack). Packs this size can easily hold everything you need for any length of trip, while being small enough to remain manageable while you’re wearing it.
• Clamshell opening: For extended travel use, backpacking backpacks have annoying qualities, including that they tend to load only from the top and are sealed with a drawstring. This design saves weight and means there’s one less thing to break. But it’s a total hassle when you want something from the bottom of the bag because you have to unload and reload the entire pack. We looked for bags where the front zips fully open like a suitcase, making it easy to pack or repack and find things during your trip.
• A well-framed structure: A fully loaded backpack, even a small one, can easily weigh more than 20 pounds. My old Farpoint 55 usually hovered in the mid-30s, though that included a DSLR, three lenses, a battery pack , a laptop, a 360 camera , and other work-related gear. A fully supported internal-frame pack distributes the weight onto your hips, which are much stronger than your back and shoulders. If you’re going to be doing a significant amount of walking, you’ll want something with a frame.
• Durability: We looked for features to help the pack last, like some sort of cover to contain the straps (for easier storage on planes and trains), as well as lightweight and water-resistant materials.
• Plenty of storage (and separation): I’ve done all of my traveling in the past five years with a 55-liter backpack (which includes a 15-liter daypack). I tend to overpack a bit, but 55 liters lets me carry everything I need (the full list is below) for weeks, or even months, at a time.

Here’s what I usually bring for any length of trip (and this is our standard kit for testing):

• main pack (the command module , if you will)
• daypack (the lunar excursion module )
• pair of walking shoes or sneakers (along with the shoes I’m wearing)
• five shirts, one pair of shorts, one pair of jeans (not shown because I wear them in transit), one merino wool underlayer
• warm hat (because my head lacks insulation)
• five pairs of underwear, five pairs of socks, one extra T-shirt for laundry day, one bathing suit (I really recommend packing cubes )
• rain jacket in an Eagle Creek bag
• various adapters , camera batteries, chargers, etc.
• various toiletries, vitamins, etc.
• Osprey rain cover
• razor, toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.
• well-worn flip-flops
• travel towel
• portable Bluetooth speaker
• prescription dive mask
• merino wool jacket
• inflatable pillow
• smartwool half-zip midlayer
• sun hat (because my head hates sun)
• extra travel adapter for daypack (when the daypack is my carry-on)
• pen (vital!)
• a small laptop (a 15-inch MacBook fits in all of our picks)
• GoPro batteries and filters
• earplugs and noise-cancelling headphones
• Writer Emergency Pack
• USB battery pack #1
• USB battery pack #2
• backup headphones
• iPod Classic (because you can’t always stream music)
• USB charger
• Sigma 30 mm f1.4 (with a wireless mouse to its right)

For our first version of this guide in 2016, we narrowed our choices to 11 possible contenders. For that initial round of testing, I poked and prodded the different packs to sort out whether they had any obvious flaws or issues. I had adults of various sizes try each pack to get a sense of what short and tall people preferred.

For each subsequent update, including this one, I tested with similar methods whatever new or substantially redesigned packs were available. In between updates, I took one of our picks on some extended travels.

The Osprey Fairview 55 and the nearly identical Osprey Farpoint 55 have been one of our picks since the first version of this guide came out in 2016. (The Fairview is for people with 15- to 19-inch torsos, as measured from the top of your hip bone to your C7 vertebra, the one that sticks out when you press your chin to your chest. The Farpoint is for those with torsos from 17 to 22 inches long.) They’re now our top picks again, and here’s why.

You can carry them on the plane. Once you detach the daypacks, the main packs are now carry-on-sized, making them the most versatile travel backpack we’ve tested. Interestingly, the total capacity remains roughly the same as those of our other picks—that is, we were able to stow the same amount of clothing in this bag as we could in the REI Co-op packs (our former runner-up pick) and the Salkan . The daypack, in this case, would count as your personal item—on most airlines, this would mean you couldn’t also bring a large purse or a briefcase.

Or check your bag—your choice. The shoulder straps can be secured behind a zippered panel, so if you want to check the bag or put it in a packed luggage compartment on a train or bus, they won’t catch on anything. Doing this essentially turns the main pack temporarily into a duffle bag, complete with sturdy and well-padded handles on the top and side.

They’re adjustable. Like our other picks, the main pack has height-adjustable shoulder straps. This crucial feature lets you get an all-important personalized fit that makes carrying the pack for any length of time far easier. The straps were padded enough for our testers’ comfort (though not as cushy as the Salkan’s, and slightly less so than the REI Co-op’s).

They have comfortable, easy-to-use daypacks. The daypacks are roughly the same size, or a little larger, than those of our other picks, something travelers who plan to cart lots of camera gear or other daily essentials will appreciate. The top of the shoulder straps connect to form a sturdy handle, which is extremely, ahem, handy. Each daypack easily holds a 15-inch MacBook and is comfortable to wear over long treks. There are two large exterior mesh pockets for water bottles . Though the daypack is a little short on organizational slots and pockets, its comfort made it the best overall.

The backpacks are tough. The Farpoint and the Fairview are made from 450-denier recycled polyester, which feels thick and sturdy, though more “plasticky” compared to the Salkan. (Denier is a measure of the fiber thickness in a fabric.) I put the Farpoint through six weeks of train, bus, and airplane trips across Europe, and it didn’t show any signs of wear or breaking.

You can attach a lock, if you want. Unlike the Salkan The Backpacker, both the main pack and the daypack’s main zippers are lockable.

The backpacks come in more color options than our other picks. Currently, the Farpoint comes in black, green, blue, and grey. The Fairview comes in black, green, red, and purple.

The packs include a lifetime warranty. Osprey’s All Mighty Guarantee covers repair of any damage or defect for life—or replaces the pack, if repair is impossible. If you just want to return the pack unused, you have 30 days.

It’s been a pick in this guide for seven years—and counting. I have put my money where my mouth is, so to speak. After testing this 2023 pack, I liked it so much that I bought one for myself, replacing an Osprey Farpoint that had been my go-to pack for years of travel.

It comes in additional capacities. If you already have a daypack that you like, the Farpoint 40 and the Fairview 40 are just the main pack from the 55 (they’re also picks in our guide to carry-on travel backpacks ). You can add the daypack later if you want. If you want more space and don’t mind checking your luggage, the Osprey Farpoint 70 and the Osprey Fairview 70 are slightly larger versions of their Farpoint 55 and Fairview 55 counterparts—anything we’ve said about the Farpoint 55 and the Fairview 55 also applies to them. They would work well for those who want to go with the Osprey but need more room in the main pack for, say, clothes for multiple climates, bulky items like ski parkas, and the like.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• The U-shaped opening of the daypack is surprisingly small, restricting access. You can’t easily spot things at the bottom or carry bulky items. On the other hand, this does limit what might spill out of the pack if you forget to fully close it, something that has happened to me several times with the old half-clamshell design.
• Previous versions of the Farpoint and the Fairview had large zippers that basically fused the daypack to the main pack. With this version, the daypack hangs off the back, secured only by the nylon compression straps. The straps loop through reinforced parts of the daypack, so it seems reasonably secure, and this new design does let you stuff more things in both packs—but as someone who carries a lot of expensive gear in the daypack, I’m less than excited about it.
• The pack isn’t as comfortable as the heavily padded Salkan. Osprey seems to have prioritized weight and breathability over padding. In warmer climates, though, this could be a good thing.
• Unlike our other picks, the Farpoint and the Fairview don’t include a rain cover. One is available separately, however. Osprey recommends the large size for the 55 L packs.
• The new design is slightly smaller than the old one, as well as being a little smaller than the REI Co-op and Salkan packs.
• Lastly, while looks are entirely subjective, the Farpoint and the Fairview are very much “backpack-looking backpacks.” The dark color choices are safe, to put it mildly.

The Salkan The Backpacker is a higher-end travel backpack for people who want the comfort of our top pick but are willing to pay more for swappable design options and more organization.

It has more organization than our top pick. The capacity of the main pack is 45 liters, basically the same as that of our main picks . It has more organization and compartments than the Osprey packs, however. There are two large water-bottle compartments on either side and a laptop compartment inside, as well as several other small, zippered compartments. In addition to the main zippered hatch, the top opens with a drawstring like a hiking backpack, allowing fast access or storage. This drawstring design does allow you to stuff a bit more into the pack than the Osprey packs. However, the main pack is technically too tall to be a carry-on for most airlines.

It has the best padding. The shoulder straps are well padded—the best I’ve seen—and height adjustable. The back panel and hip straps are generously padded, too. All this does make the pack nearly twice as heavy as the Osprey, though we’re talking only a few pounds (under 8 pounds compared with the Farpoint’s 4-plus pounds). For reference, the Farpoint, fully loaded with all my clothes, heavy camera gear, and so on, was around 35 pounds, including the bag itself.

You can customize it. The pack is available in two main colors: black and light green. In addition, the straps have complementary color options, including orange (shown above), pink, and maroon, plus five other choices. This allows for more personalization and flair compared to the Osprey packs. Salkan also sells several accessories to go with The Backpacker, such as packing cubes, water bottles, and a laundry bag that attaches to the inside of the main pack.

It’s sturdy—but has not-so-great attachments. The bag’s 900-denier polyester fabric (even stronger than our top pick’s 450-denier fabric) is extremely strong and should resist rips or tears. What zippers The Backpacker has run smoothly, but the design oddly eschews them in key places. While the main compartment has a zipper, as do multiple smaller compartments, the main and daypack’s top openings do not, using drawstrings and a flap instead. These flaps are secured with aluminum “G”-shaped hooks (Salkan calls them buckles) that slide into nylon straps. The hooks feel nice in your hand and could well last longer than the plastic clips on the Osprey packs. However, connecting them takes a few moments longer than using a clip or zipper would—time that adds up. They also feel less secure, like they could slide loose under load and movement. (These hooks are also what connect the daypack to the main pack.)

It has a great warranty. Salkan has a “ ‘No Landfill’ Lifetime Guarantee ”: “If there is something wrong with your backpack that shouldn’t be, then we’ll try to repair it, and if we can’t, we’ll replace it.” In addition, the company has a 100-day trial period within which you can return or exchange the pack if you don’t like it.

But it’s pricey. The Backpack costs much more than the Osprey acks. While it’s arguably better-looking, this doesn’t add much functional difference. The pack’s comfortable, but so are the others. It’s adjustable, but so are the others. It does come with a rain cover—Osprey’s costs $40. Is the Salkan’s extra cost and organization worth the better aesthetics? That’s not for me to say.

And we couldn’t attach a lock. There’s no way to lock either the main pack or the daypack. There’s no way to attach a lock to the “G” hooks. The nylon drawstrings at the main pack’s top opening, as well as the daypack’s, offer no practical way of attaching a lock. For such a well-designed and feature-rich pack, this is a surprising oversight. Is this a dealbreaker? Probably not, at least for most people. With the daypack buckled and the drawstring closed, it’s highly unlikely someone could reach in while you’re wearing it without you noticing. However, I frequently leave my pack in luggage rooms at hotels or the occasional hostel without lockers, and not being able to lock it when it’s out of sight would concern me.

This is not a comprehensive list of everything we tested in previous iterations of this guide—just what’s still available.

During our research, we checked out a number of companies that make great packs, but none of those packs met all of our criteria. In most cases this was because the company specialized in top-loading bags, bags with wheels, bags that were too big, or very large bags that didn’t include daypacks. These companies included Black Diamond, Berghaus, Dakine, Eagle Creek, eBags, EMS, Ferrino, Gregory, High Sierra, Kathmandu, Kelty, Minaal, MEI, The North Face, Ortovox, Outdoor Research, Patagonia, Rick Steves, Thule, Timbuk2, and Victorinox.

The REI Co-op Ruckpack 60+ Recycled Travel Pack (which came in men’s and women’s versions) had been our runner-up pick, but this largest size of the pack has been discontinued. (Smaller sizes are still available.)

The Deuter Aviant Access Pro has many of the features we liked, but its daypack is too small. The pack’s also more expensive than our top picks.

The men’s and women’s Thule Landmark 60L are well-made, sturdy packs, with a wide main-pack opening and most of the same features that we like in the other packs. They’re more expensive, though, and the daypacks aren’t as comfortable. (Since our testing, Thule has started offering the backpack only in a unisex option ; it’s still pricey, though, and comes in just one size.)

The Tropicfeel Shelter Backpack is a highly customizable pack to which you can add “modules” that expand capacity or change its use. It’s a cool idea, and the pack seems well designed, but it’s extremely expensive and doesn’t really add that much practical use over our main picks.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Meet your guide

Geoffrey Morrison

Geoffrey Morrison is Wirecutter’s former AV editor, current editor-at-large, and a travel writer and photographer. He covers action cameras, gimbals, travel backpacks, and other gear. He has been to all 50 states and 60 countries, and he is the author of Budget Travel for Dummies and the sci-fi novel Undersea .

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• Allegiant Air
• American Airlines
• Hawaiian Airlines
• Virgin America
• British Airways
• Virgin Atlantic
• Ryanair (Priority)
• Air New Zealand
• Air Tahiti Nui
• Cathay Pacific
• China Airlines
• Japan Airlines
• Malaysia Airlines
• Philippine Airlines
• Singapore Airlines
• Tahi Airways
• Virgin Australia
• Hainan Airlines
• Etihad Airways
• Gulf Air (Falcon Gold)
• Jet Airways
• Kenya Airways
• Middle East Airlines
• Qatar Airways
• Royal Jordanian
• South African Airways
• Gulf Air (Economy)

Samsonite Detour Travel Backpack

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• Constructed with durable foam padded and water-resistant fabric
• Separate padded laptop compartment holds up to a 15.6" laptop
• Centre zip fully opens for ease of packing
• Multiple mesh storage pockets
• Smart Sleeve fits over luggage handles
• Front, top & side carry handles
• Padded back and shoulder straps provide added comfort
• Multiple zippered quick-access stash pockets
• Lined, top stash pocket for protection
• Elastic side pocket
• SPECIFICATIONS
• CARRY-ON AIRLINE

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Airline carry-on allowance policies and guidelines are subject to momentary changes and based on Economy standards. For the most accurate information, please check airline websites prior to departure.

Size allowance:

H:22.00 in W:14.00 in D:9.00 in H:55.88 cm W:35.56 cm D:22.86 cm

Max weight per piece:

22lbs 10kgs

H:55.88 cm W:36.83 cm D:23.88 cm H:22.00 in W:14.50 in D:9.40 in

H:24.00 in W:17.00 in D:10.00 in H:60.96 cm W:43.18 cm D:25.40 cm

H:22.00 in W:16.00 in D:10.00 in H:55.88 cm W:40.64 cm D:25.40 cm

H:22.00 in W:18.00 in D:10.00 in H:55.88 cm W:45.72 cm D:25.40 cm

Max weight per piece: 15lbs 7kgs

Max weight per piece: No limit

17.5lbs 8kgs

Max weight per piece: 25lbs 12kgs

15.4lbs 7kgs

H:55.88 cm W:35.56 cm D:22.86 cm H:22.00 in W:14.00 in D:9.00 in

H:22.00 in W:16.00 in D:9.00 in H:55.88 cm W:40.64 cm D:22.86 cm

H:22.00 in W:15.70 in D:9.00 in H:55.88 cm W:39.88 cm D:22.86 cm

H:54.00 cm W:38.00 cm D:23.00 cm

Max weight per piece: No Limit

10kgs 22lbs

H:18.50 in W:13.00 in D:8.00 in H:48.00 cm W:33.00 cm D:20.00 cm

H:21.50 in W:15.50 in D:8.00 in H:55.00 cm W:40.00 cm D:20.00 cm

H:24.00 in W:16.00 in D:10.00 in H:61.00 cm W:40.00 cm D:20.00 cm

H:21.00 in W:15.50 in D:9.00 in H:55.00 cm W:40.00 cm D:23.00 cm

H:22.00 in W:16.50 in D:8.00 in H:55.00 cm W:40.00 cm D:20.00 cm

17.6lbs 8kgs

H:21.50 in W:13.75 in D:10.00 in H:55.00 cm W:35.00 cm D:25.00 cm

26.5lbs 12kgs

H:22.04 in W:14.00 in D:9.00 in H:55.90 cm W:35.60 cm D:22.90 cm

H:21.50 in W:15.50 in D:9.00 in H:55.00 cm W:40.00 cm D:23.00 cm

H:22.00 in W:14.00 in D:8.00 in H:56.00 cm W:35.00 cm D:20.00 cm

H:22.00 in W:18.00 in D:10.00 in H:56.00 cm W:45.00 cm D:25.00 cm

H:22.00 in W:15.00 in D:8.00 in H:55.00 cm W:38.00 cm D:20.00 cm

H:19.60 in W:15.70 in D:8.00 in H:50.00 cm W:40.00 cm D:21.00 cm

H:21.60 in W:15.70 in D:7.8.00 in H:55.00 cm W:40.00 cm D:20.00 cm

H:24.00 in W:16.00 in D:10.00 in H:61.00 cm W:40.50 cm D:25.00 cm

35lbs 15.8kgs

H:21.60 in W:15.70 in D:7.80 in H:55.00 cm W:40.00 cm D:20.00 cm

H:21.60 in W:15.70 in D:10.00 in H:55.00 cm W:40.00 cm D:25.00 cm

H:22.00 in W:14.00 in D:9.00 in H:56.00 cm W:36.00 cm D:23.00 cm

H:19.60 in W:13.70 in D:7.80 in H:50.00 cm W:35.00 cm D:20.00 cm

H:22.00 in W:15.70 in D:8.00 in H:55.00 cm W:40.00 cm D:20.00 cm

26lbs 12kgs

H:21.50 in W:13.50 in D:10.00 in H:55.00 cm W:35.00 cm D:25.00 cm

H:21.60 in W:13.50 in D:10.00 in H:55.00 cm W:35.00 cm D:25.00 cm

H:21.60 in W:15.70 in D:9.00 in H:55.00 cm W:40.00 cm D:23.00 cm

H:22.00 in W:15.70 in D:10.00 in H:56.00 cm W:40.00 cm D:25.00 cm

45 Inches (length + width + height) 115cm (length + width + height)

H:20.00 in W:15.00 in D:10.00 in H:50.00 cm W:37.00 cm D:25.00 cm

H:21.60 in W:15.70 in D:8.00 in H:55.00 cm W:40.00 cm D:20.00 cm

H:22.00 in W:15.00 in D:8.00 in H:55.00 cm W:40.00 cm D:20.00 cm

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