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Home » Gear » What is The Best Backpack For Travel in Europe? EPIC Round Up (2024)

What is The Best Backpack For Travel in Europe? EPIC Round Up (2024)

Europe is a great destination for a burgeoning backpacker. Most European countries are accustomed to accommodating broke backpackers carrying their lives on their shoulders, and the continent sports some of the world’s best public transport networks, allowing travelers to roam freely without needing a car.

There are so many great stops and sights to see on any Eurotrip, but you won’t make it very far without the right backpack. Any old nylon duffel will get you through a week’s trip, but the best backpack for Europe will help keep you on the road for months at a time, all the while pushing you past the big cities of the continent into the heart of exploration.

If you want to see it all, you’ll have to manage the diverse landscapes and different weather patterns that make Europe so interesting to visit. The best bag for the endless summer of the Mediterranean coast might not stand against the changing weather of the Irish plains.

The good news is, modern backpackers can take advantage of Europe’s decades-old travel infrastructure with more great backpack choices than ever. With so many great backpacks on the market, it might be hard to narrow things down to the best bag for you. That’s where we step in.

Things have changed a lot since foreigners first started cutting costs and roaming through Western Europe, but one thing hasn’t: The best way to see this continent and get a feel for the rich range of cultures present is with your home on your back.

These Are The BEST Travel Bags for Europe

Osprey Sojourn Porter 46

• Capacity (L) > 46
• Weight (G) > 1559
• Dims (CM, HxWxD) > 46x40x31
• Price ($) > 195

Tortuga Travel Pack 30L

• Capacity (L) > 30L
• Weight (G) > 1.8KG
• Dims (CM, HxWxD) > 20.5×12.2×7.5
• Price ($) > 325

Osprey Aether

• Capacity (L) > 65
• Weight (G) > 2267
• Dims (CM, HxWxD) > 81x40x28
• Price ($) > 315

Nomatic 30L Travel Bag

• Capacity (L) > 30
• Weight (G) > 1500
• Dims (CM, HxWxD) > 23x48x33
• Price ($) > 268

Farpoint 55

• Capacity (L) > 55
• Weight (G) > 1700
• Dims (CM, HxWxD) > 60x33x30
• Price ($) > 170

Nomatic Navigator 32

• Capacity (L) > 37-44
• Weight (G) > 2358
• Dims (CM, HxWxD) > 56x36x23
• Price ($) > 391

TropicFeel Shell

• Capacity (L) > 22-42
• Dims (CM, HxWxD) > 50x30x19
• Price ($) > 290

Osprey UNLTD

• Capacity (L) > 68
• Weight (G) > 2812
• Dims (CM, HxWxD) > 81x40x38
• Price ($) > 700

WANDRD PRVKE

• Capacity (L) > 31
• Weight (G) > 1300
• Dims (CM, HxWxD) > 48x30x17
• Price ($) > 216

Osprey Sojourn

• Capacity (L) > 45
• Weight (G) > 4000
• Price ($) > 375

Monarc Settra

• Capacity (L) > 40
• Weight (G) > 2041
• Dims (CM, HxWxD) > 28x60x33
• Price ($) > 150

Stubble & Co Adventure Bag

• Capacity (L) > 42
• Dims (CM, HxWxD) > 55 x 38 x 24
• Price ($) > 300

Choosing The Right Bag For European Travel

How and where we tested to find the best backpack for europe, final thoughts on the best bag for europe.

European Travel takes on all sorts of forms. Unless you plan on renting a car, your bag will need to deftly navigate buses, trains, crowded sidewalks, and long walks to the hostel, all while storing everything you need for your trip. 

At the minimum, your bag will need to fit in a luggage rack and pack a week’s worth of clothes. The good thing about traveling through Europe is you’ll never be too far away from the nearest laundry machine, even in the alps, so unless you plan on doing some serious backcountry exploring you probably won’t need to haul around a 70 Liter monstrosity. 

Most passionate minimalists and one-bag travel experts like to set the bar around 35-40 Liters for their bag, which generally provides the maximum amount of storage while still fitting easily in overhead compartments and luggage racks. 

The storage capacity is just the first piece of the puzzle. Any European adventure will likely have a lot of stops. There’s just too many cities to see and cheeses to try. Unless you’ve got a year budgeted out for roaming and romping, you’ll be living out of your bag and packing it up quite a bit. 

I take ease of access incredibly seriously when considering any new backpack. Ideally, I’d like a bag that lets me live for 24 hours without ever having to open the main compartment. 

Anytime I’m settling down for more than a night or two I’ll unpack, but if I can find a backpack with enough easy access points to get to my toothbrush, a change of clothes, some snacks, and my electronics without having to dig around through the muck and mire of the main drag, I’ll take it.

Finally, a backpack for European Travel should consider safety. Backpackers are easy targets for scammers and thieves, and there’s no such thing as a modern city without a few ne’er do wells lurking near the bus stations.

Nobody wants to travel around with a giant target on their back, but a bright red backpack is the closest thing to wearing a sign that says ‘Hello criminals, I am slightly out of my comfort zone AND everything I own is right here in this bag.’ 

Some backpack makers are catching on and offering jet-black looks that reduce down and don’t give off the wrong impressions, while others are coming up with high-tech solutions like locking compartments and RFID-blocking pockets. There is no backpack that can completely reduce the risk of turning down the wrong corner at the wrong time, but a great European travel bag will keep everything close to the chest and out of access for any potential pickpockets. 

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Best Overall Travel Bag for Europe – Osprey Sojourn Porter 46

• Capacity (L): 46
• Weight (G): 1559
• Dims (CM, HxWxD): 46x40x31
• Price ($): 195

At the Broke Backpacker we’re a bit more accustomed to bus rides than bellhops, but it can never hurt to bring your own personal porter on your next adventure. It serves as its own bagman and it just might be the most organized bag Osprey has ever made. 

They didn’t simply pump the dang thing full of pockets, but instead added clutch access points like a full U-zippered main compartment, a protected laptop sleeve, and stow-able hip belt and harness. These perks allow the bag to perform well in all sorts of use cases. 

Unfortunately, there is no bag that is perfect for everyone, and there are a few zones where the Osprey Porter falls short. You might want to look elsewhere if you need a bag to break ultralight records or long-haul walks in the woods. Instead, this bag serves as a perfect companion for anyone planning on spending the next few months wandering through the European Continent. 

The list would be a whole lot shorter if we talked about where we didn’t test it. This bag has seen the Tour de France, the Running of the Bulls , the Cooper Hill Cheese roll, Oktoberfest, and the Battle of the Oranges. Without a fuss, the Porter has fit on all sorts of crowded buses and managed draconian baggage policies to get us there with our gear. 

Best Carry on Backpack For Europe – Tortuga Travel Pack 30L

• Capacity (L):  30
• Weight (G):  1.8kg
• Dims (CM, HxWxD):  20.5×12.2×7.5
• Price ($): 325

The Tortuga Travel Pack is a serious piece of equipment. The revamped 30L version of the Travel Pack has been custom designed to be accepted for carry on all over the world.

As well as being globally carry-on ready, it’s also got a phenomenal design, great organization, and it has HUGE amounts of space. Tortuga might be the company that best knows how to create space within their bags so you can pack the compartments to your heart’s content.

Note that there isa 40L version available but in order to spare you all the wrath of European airlines like Ryanair, we suggest using the smaller 30L version.

I loved taking this pack around Europe as it was accessible, comfy to carry and fit all my gear. One thing I noticed about this pack is how durable and strong the zippers feel.

Best Backpack For Backpacking Europe – Osprey Aether

• Capacity (L): 65
• Weight (G): 2267
• Dims (CM, HxWxD): 81x40x28
• Price ($): 315

This heavy-duty option is a great choice for packing everything you own on your shoulders. The Aether is one of Osprey’s more technically advanced backpacks, built for the backcountry and just as suitable for winding cobblestone streets.

Some of this backpack’s models come with a detachable daypack that works great for quick stops, carry-on, and city tours. This is one of the biggest game changers in the backpacking industry and instantly elevated this pack to a must-have in my own closet. You can bring everything you need for a month’s vacation in Europe , all the while storing it in the room with ease, while you take only the essentials with you on your next day trek.

Fully kitted up, Osprey’s flexible shoulder pads and air mesh backing help lighten your load. Although there is no such thing as a bag that makes 70 Liters feel lighter than air, the Aether might be the closest thing to it.

The Aether has been my go-to bag for trips where I plan to be on my feet for more than a kilometer or two. Every time the train station ended up being a few kilometers away from the hostel, or I missed the early bus and had to get walking, I tested the limits of this bag and it passed with flying colors.

Best Bag For Budget Flights In Europe – Nomatic 30L Travel Bag

• Capacity (L): 30
• Weight (G): 1500
• Dims (CM, HxWxD): 23x48x33
• Price ($): 268

Anyone who has ever shown up to a Ryanair flight without a printed ticket knows those budget flights can be a trap. The initial tickets are a steal, but the charges can quickly add up. One way budget airlines look to make a bit of extra cash is by reducing the amount of luggage you can take with you.

If you want to take advantage of the cheapest rates out there, this Nomatic travel bag is the best bet to get it done no matter the airline. The travel bag fits regulations and allows you to store more than any other carry-on bag on the market, thanks to Nomatic’s wealth of curious pockets and space-saving maneuvers.

Not only is the bag a high-tech beast, but Nomatic rounded out the edges, protecting your gear in a fully waterproof shell and adding on a few anti-theft perks that make the travel bag pack well above its nimble weight. With a slightly smug grin of satisfaction, we slipped our fully loaded Nomatic Travel bag in between the bars at the airline check-in counter that proved indeed it fits, it flies, and it’s got a full week’s gear inside.

Best Bag For Interrail – Farpoint 55

• Capacity (L): 55
• Weight (G): 1700
• Dims (CM, HxWxD): 60x33x30
• Price ($): 170

Europe is best seen by train . There’s a certain romance to zipping past the dry Portuguese countryside without your hands on the wheel. Our favorite train-friendly travel is an iconic travel backpack. The Farpoint series is one of the best one-bag travel choices in the world, combining a bit of trail magic with some convenient storage features to make an extraordinary kit.

Train travel means more lenient luggage regulations, that is unless you’re trying to travel with a surfboard on Renfre. That means you can opt for a slightly larger backpack and store it all. The Farpoint makes it easy to pack a month’s worth of gear with a nice U-shaped zippered opening and large hip belt pockets that will fit a few snacks and train tickets. What makes this bag unique is its versatility.

Osprey pumps plenty of hiking knowledge into all of their packs, so even backpacks made for urban wandering come with clutch comfort features, great rain protection, and the adjustability to fit on any set of shoulders.

Looking for a same sized bag with a few different features? Have a look at the Rei Flash 55 Backpack then!

Best Backpack For European Cities – Nomatic Navigator 32

• Capacity (L): 32-41
• Weight (G): 2358
• Dims (CM, HxWxD): 56x36x23
• Price ($): 399

You don’t want to have to stop back off at the hostel multiple times during a grand day out in the city. That means ideally, your backpack will carry everything you need for the day, rain or shine, without being too uncomfortable. That’s the Nomatic Navigator’s specialty. 

This bag can expand and contract from 32 to 41 Liters so you can pack exactly what you need for the day without leaving a bunch of empty space. Even if you start the day with a full bag, the expansion helps you sneak in that op-shop find. We also love the laid-back look of the navigator for city travel. 

Anyone can spot a backpacker a mile away with most of the usual suspects. Bright-colored hiking bags loaded to the brim may have the locals treating you slightly different, or help you stick out in the crowd. The navigator stays lowkey while sneakily storing a whole lot of the good stuff to help you check out new cities like one of the gang. 

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Best Backpack For Hosteling Europe – TropicFeel Shell

• Capacity (L): 22-42
• Dims (CM, HxWxD): 50x30x19
• Price ($): 290

Your dorm room probably doesn’t include a walk-in closet, but this backpack will make any pod feel like a target for the bling ring. The TropicFeel Shell is trying to completely change up the game, and while there are still some kinks to be worked out, this is a fantastic option for certain travelers.

Anyone who likes to have a perfect place for everything in their gear kit will literally giggle at the number of options the TropicFeel provides .

Between a wardrobe system, detachable toiletry kit, kangaroo pouch, and optional camera cube, you’ll be more organized than ever. Each one of these organizational points is detachable, which means once you arrive at the hostel you can hang your wardrobe, send the toiletry kit to the sink, slip the camera cube into your locker, and hit the town with an incredibly light day bag.

The bag is not the best choice for people heading far off from paved roads, as all the extra detachment points don’t make an incredibly lightweight pack. For anyone whose wandering goals are to make new friends and see new places, this backpack is an easy choice for life going from hostel to hostel in Europe.

Best Backpack For Hiking in Europe – Osprey UNLTD

• Capacity (L): 68
• Weight (G): 2812
• Dims (CM, HxWxD): 81x40x38
• Price ($): 700

From the Camino Del Santiago through the Tour du Mont Blanc, hiking in Europe can take you across epic mountains and bounce you along wild surf. There are a lot of bags out there that can get you through a controlled day hike, but the best backpack for pushing things up a notch is the Osprey UNLTD. 

This bag is the culmination of Osprey’s decades of industry dominance. Its starting point is a combination of features that make other Osprey bags great, like a detachable daypack, superior Airscape breathability, and loads of straps and external tool attachments. The UNLTD then takes things to the next level with 3D-printed foam back panels and a carbon frame. 

This immense Antigravity system is the brainchild of Osprey founder Mike Pfotenhauer, who threw it all into this pack. The pack lifts its weight a bit off your shoulders and spreads the load evenly around your body to stay comfortable when long-distance trekking. 

Best Bag For Photographing Europe – WANDRD PRVKE

• Capacity (L): 31
• Weight (G): 1300
• Dims (CM, HxWxD): 48x30x17
• Price ($): 216

This tarpaulin terror is one of our favorite up-and-coming backpacks. WANDRD is a Kickstarter darling that has spent the last decade proving that backpacks can be more than large black holes with shoulder straps. 

The PRVKE is the model that finally pushed them over the top and into our hearts thanks to the combination of performance, protection, and cheeky special features. The 31 Liter bag spreads storage across 8 convenient pockets and a main compartment. WANDRD also sells a camera carry case that helps compartmentalize things even further. 

Pockets, protection, and aesthetics combine to create a photography bag that can do a whole lot more. The bag is a perfect carry-on size and has enough quality materials on the outside to keep your gear dry from a few surprise showers. The rolltop wide opening is the cherry on top, allowing you to condense and expand this bag to exactly the size you need. 

Best Wheeled Backpack For Europe – Osprey Sojourn

• Capacity (L): 45
• Weight (G): 4000
• Price ($): 375.00

Europe’s cobbled streets and winding corners are a real challenge for wheeled backpacks. You can’t expect to run any old bag through the Rua da Bica and get out unscathed. If you don’t feel like carrying your gear on your shoulders, you should absolutely splurge for a top-quality roller like the Sojourn. 

This bag does include shoulder carrying straps, but it’s a bit bulky to lift up off its wheels for more than a few meters. It blends the line between backpack and suitcase, providing an ultra-durable set of wheels with a high chassis that helps take this roller off-road. 

You can choose between 45, 60, and 80 Liters to make sure no matter what kind of journey you’re embarking on, you’ll always have some space for souvenirs. 

Best Hybrid Bag For Europe – Monarc Travel Duffel Backpack

• Capacity (L): 40
• Weight (G): 2041
• Dims (CM, HxWxD): 28x60x33
• Price ($): 150

Young European travelers have forged ahead on a path of sustainable exploration. There is no bag better to confidently explore the European continent than one made out of recycled materials, like this Monarc Travel Duffel Backpack made from 50 recycled bottles. The Travel Duffel Backpack proves that sustainable materials can do anything polyester can, all without the carbon footprint. 

The pack walks the line between a duffel bag and an old-fashioned backpack, allowing you to easily maneuver your bag through crowded train terminals and throw it over your shoulder for longer walks. It’s one of the only duffel bags in the business with adjustable sternum and waist straps as well as a full-sized laptop compartment to truly toe the line. 

At 40 Liters, the Monarc Travel Duffel Backpack sits just on the edge of carry-on eligibility, but you shouldn’t have any trouble getting it into an overhead compartment and skipping baggage claim on your way to your next adventure. 

Best Overall Travel Bag for Carry-On Travel – Stubble & Co Adventure Bag

• Capacity (L): 42
• Weight (G): 1.7kg
• Dims (CM, HxWxD):  55 x 38 x 24 cm
• Price (£): 195

The Adventure Bag from Stubble & Co is possibly the most perfectly designed travel bag on the market right now. For those wanting to spend a few months backpacking around Europe, the size and features of this bag really work well.

The bag opens up in a clamshell fashion like a suitcase meaning you no longer have to root around a top-loading bag for a specific item. To go one further in terms of organisation, each half of the bag is divided up into several zippered compartments deep enough to store inside things like packing cubes and other gear. This really makes it easy when you’re moving from place to place every few days as it’s easy to live out of the bag.

In terms of capacity, when combined with its superior organisational features, it offers the perfect size for backpacking around Europe. Bear in mind that in most European cities you’ll be getting around on public transport, so the smaller size of this bag as well as features like the hidden passport pocket make it perfect.

Want more Stubble & Co options? Check out our rundown of the best Stubble & Co. bags .

Now, you  could spend a fat chunk of $$$ on the WRONG present for someone. Wrong size hiking boots, wrong fit backpack, wrong shape sleeping bag… As any adventurer will tell you, gear is a personal choice.

So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card!  REI is The Broke Backpacker’s retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. And then you won’t have to keep the receipt. 😉

To test these packs, we laid our mits on each of them and took them out for a test spin Over a period of time, various members of our team took these different packs on various trips to put them well and truly through their paces.

Packability

A backpack is designed to carry stuff and as such, top points are awarded for how packable one is. Any decent carry in needs to make sure it maximises the space it does have and facilitates effective packing and we tested this out by packing, and unpacking. Simple right? 

Equally though, we also paid attention to how easy the pack was to unpack – being able to retrieve items quickly and easily bags a bag, bags of bonus points!

Weight and Comfort of Carrying

If a pack is overly heavy or awkward to carry then taking it along on trips becomes uncomfortable. Believe me on this, I have had more than my fair share of backpacks that just weighed an ounce or two, too much or perhaps had crappy straps that dug into my shoulders. 

As such we awarded full marks for packs that minimise weight and maximum carry-comfort.

Functionality

In order to test out how well a pack fulfilled its primary purpose we used it for this purpose. For example, if it’s a carry-on pack then we took it along as carry-on and made sure it actually oasses the Ryanait test and fits into the ever shrinking over-head cabins. For cycle backpacks we strapped them on and got on our bikes. You get the idea right? 

Some people say that travel gear doesn’t need to look good as long as it functions. Well those people are fools because good gear can be both practical and cool. As such we also awarded points for how sexy a pack looks. 

Durability and Weatherproofing

Ideally, in order to really test out how durable a backpack is we would drop it from a plane and then run over it. Unfortunately though that is not entirely feasible so instead, we simply inspected the materials used and the build quality of the packs paying attention to things like the seam sewing, the traction of the zips and other pressure points that tend to break. 

Of course, testing out how waterproof a pack is simply a case of pouring a litre of water over it – any packs caught leaking, were promptly banned entirely from inclusion in our round-ups.

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What are you waiting for!? Plane tickets aren’t getting any cheaper. Now that you know the best bags for Europe, all that’s left to do is map out a plan for exploration and then throw it out the window. 

Your trip to Europe will be full of surprises, missed trains, foul weather cancellations, and hidden gems that make you stay a few extra days. Half the fun of a backpacking adventure is the wild places you end up when what you thought was going to happen falls through.

The wrong backpack will make winding up at the wrong bus station and finding out you have to walk another two kilometers sound like a death sentence. But the right choice will have you to saying yes and embracing the journey with open arms.

No matter which backpack you choose, rambling through Europe without a care in the world is a rite of passage for any broke backpacker, and as long as you choose a bag from this list, your exploration will be the beginning of a life on the road. 

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Aiden Freeborn

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Travel Europe on a Budget

The Savvy Backpacker

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Best daypacks and day bags for europe travel.

Packing , Product Reviews

When traveling to Europe you’ll most likely have two backpacks:  

• Your main travel backpack which is designed to carry all your stuff from point A to point B.
• A smaller daypack (also called day pack or day bag) which is intended to be used daily as a means to carry the things that won’t fit in your pockets (i.e. maps, cameras, snacks, etc).

This guide will tell you what features are essential in a great daypack, and we’ll show you some of our top picks. If you’re looking for information about large travel backpacks be sure to check out our guide to  choosing the perfect travel backpack for Europe and our favorite travel backpacks . 

Many travelers spend so much time focusing on finding the right travel backpack that they forget about finding a good daypack. But if you think about it, you’ll be wearing your daypack for 6+ hours nearly every day, but you’ll only be carrying your large travel backpack while you’re changing destinations. Admittedly, fitting a travel backpack is much tougher than a daypack, but it does make sense to spend a bit of time choosing a quality daypack.

Click here to jump directly to our daypack reviews

What to Look For in a Daypack

Style is a personal preference, but you’ll find that daypacks tend to fall into two categories — urban and athletic performance. Urban bags are designed for everyday use, normally have a good organization system and they are usually a bit more fashionable. Performance bags are designed to be used for hiking or other athletic, outdoorsy activities. They tend to look a little ‘out of place’ in urban environments, but they tend to be more comfortable.  It is your choice to decide which you prefer.

Pickpockets are very common in most European cities, so it is important to keep that in mind when choosing a daypack. You can usually avoid becoming a victim by simply being aware of your surroundings, but sometimes you simply can’t avoid them — like crowded public transportation.

At the very least you’ll want zippers that can be clipped or locked together. This will deter 99% of would-be-thieves, but some companies also make slash proof bags that have a thin metal mesh sewn into the walls of the pack, if you want an extra level of security.

Lightweight

A good daypack should ideally be lightweight and easy to carry. Most backpacks aren’t that heavy, so this isn’t a huge issue, but you’ll probably want to avoid large and bulky bags.

Packability

While not completely necessary, it is really nice to be able to pack your daypack into your main travel backpack when you’re changing destinations. This feature also comes in handy if you plan to only carry-on when you fly since most budget airlines only allow one carry-on item.

Some bags are designed to be easily rolled up and compressed into the size of a book. They are ultra-lightweight, but this style of the bag doesn’t always have the best support system, so they’re not great if you add too much weight to the bag.

Don’t worry too much if you don’t have room to pack your daypack, as many travelers will simply wear their daypack on their chest and their backpack on their back. It is a bit awkward, but it works.

A good daypack should be just big enough to carry a few items — camera, maps, guidebook, snacks, light jacket/sweater, etc. The bigger the bag, the tougher it becomes to navigate crowded transportation and keep secure.

You’ll be wearing your daypack quite often, so comfort is key. Features like padded shoulder straps and ventilated backs greatly add to comfort.

External Pockets

I prefer a day bag that has a few external pockets that will allow me to have easy access to non-valuable items like notebooks, pens, maps, and other similar items.

OUR FAVORITE DAYPACKS AND DAY BAGS

We’ve divided this guide into multiple sections to best fit multiple travel styles.

Packable Daypacks

These packs are extremely lightweight and can be easily stuffed into your main backpack when you have to catch a train or a plane. They are good if you don’t plan on packing them with a lot of stuff because the lack of structure leads them to becomes uncomfortable when loaded with too much weight. They also tend to be the cheapest option.

Eagle Creek Packable Daypack  —Weighing in at only 8oz, this daypack gets a lot of praise for being durable and it will carry the basics while you’re roaming the streets of Europe. It isn’t the cheapest packable backpack, but it is probably the best quality of the three. It also comes with a lifetime warranty. Price: Around $32 via Amazon.

Outlander Packable Handy Lightweight Travel Backpack Daypack  — This daypack gets positive reviews and it is about $8 cheaper than the Eagle Creek bag. It does have two water bottle pockets that a lot of people find handy. Price: Around $20 via Amazon

Tortuga Setout Packable Daypack — The Tortuga Setout Packable Daypack is another great bag that we’ve used. It only weighs 8.5 oz and it has wide shoulder straps to keep it comfortable. We also like the small outside pocket. Price: $39 via Tortuga .

Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Day Pack — This bag is crazy light at only 2.4 ounces. It’s a super minimalist and no-frills bag but it’s a nice option if you’re into ultra-light travel. Price: Around $32 via Amazon . 

Most Fashionable Day Bags 

Sometimes you just want to look cool. We get it. These bags do a great job of being fashionable and functional.

1. Fjallraven – Fjallraven is a Swedish brand that makes super hip backpacks — they’re very popular in Europe so you’ll fit right in. There are multiple sizes and colors so simply find one that works for you. Prices start around $70. See styles and prices on Amazon .

2. Herschel Supply Co – Herschel Supply Co is another super popular and hip backpack. They also have multiple styles and colors to choose from. Prices start around $50.  See styles on Amazon .

3. Jansport – Jansport makes classic bags in multiple styles. And they’re affordable — prices start around  $25). See the styles on Amazon .

4. Pacsafe Slingsafe – Worried about theft but still want to look stylish? Check out the Pacsafe Slingsafe. Price: Around $70 via Amazon .

Best No-Frills Day Bags

You don’t need to spend a lot of money to get a quality daypack. These two bags are affordable, durable, and they’ll carry everything you need while exploring Europe.

1.  JanSport Superbreak Classic Backpack  — You probably used a JanSport backpack in grade school — I know I did. These bags come in a ton of colors, are super durable, and are big enough to carry whatever gear you have. Plus, these bags are popular with a lot of European college students and I remember seeing them for 100€ in Paris. Prices start at a little over $25, so this bag is great for budget travelers. JanSport also makes a range of other styles  so be sure to check them out. Price: Around $25-$40 via Amazon .

2.  High Sierra Curve   — The Curve is specially designed for women. It is made out of durable lightweight fabric. It has all the basic features you need from a basic daypack. These sell for about $25, so it makes a comparable alternative to the JanSport. Price: Around $25 via Amazon .

Best Minimalist Daypacks

These bags are streamlined and ready to navigate busy European streets. The style of these daypacks are smaller than a traditional backpack, so they won’t be able to fit a great deal of stuff. They should be able to pack everything you need, but not much else.

1.  Eagle Creek Luggage Travel Bug Backpack  — The Eagle Creek Bug is a great choice for travelers that don’t want much bulk and only want to carry the basics. It can hold an iPad, a small notebook, a light sweater, and a few other small items — and that is about it. This sleek and stylish bag is designed for women. Price: Around $64.  See Price on Amazon .

2.  Patagonia Atom Sling  — The Patagonia Atom Sling is a sleek and stylish bag that looks great in the city. It isn’t large, so it can only carry the basics. Another great feature is that you can easily swing it around to your front if you’re in crowded transportation. Price: $Around $60. See Price on Amazon .

3.  Deuter Speed Lite — Deuter makes three great minimalist daypacks in their Speed Lite series — Speed Lite 10 , Speed Lite 15 , and Speed Lite 20 . Each bag is lightweight, sleek, well made, and durable. The price ranges from $60-$90 depending on the size. See Price On Amazon .

4.  Osprey Daylite   — It is no secret that Osprey makes great packs — they are my bag of choice. The Daylight is a great minimalist backpack that is tough (lifetime warranty) and light. It is a great choice for urban travel. Price: $49. See Price on Amazon .

Best All-Around Backpack

Whether you’re exploring the green hills of Ireland or walking the cobblestone streets of Paris, these backpacks will suit your needs perfectly. They are big enough to carry any gear you’ll need for the day, but they’re small enough to allow you to travel with ease. With that said, these bags might be too big for the ultralight minimalist traveler. These daypacks are designed to provide extra comfort so your back won’t be hurting at the end of the day.

1.  Patagonia  — Patagonia makes some of the best outdoor equipment and a number of great bags. Their line up is always changing so take a look at these bags. And I think they’re pretty stylish. Price: $60-$120. See Amazon for full selection .

2.  Osprey Comet   — The Osprey Comet is another great pack by Osprey. It is a little bigger than the Daylight, but it has more features for increased comfort and usability. It has mesh padded straps and a vented back to promote airflow. It can also fit a 13″ laptop (maybe 15″) if needed. Price: Around $89. Visit Amazon for Price .

Best Anti-Theft Daypack

Pickpockets are a problem in nearly all major European cities — I’ve seen it happen with my own eyes. You can avoid most situations by being aware of your surroundings, but pickpockets are great at creating confusion. These daypacks are perfect if you are wanting that extra layer of security while traveling. 

1.  Pacsafe Luggage Venture Safe 25L GII  — Pacsafe is the king of theft deterrent products and the Venture Safe 25L is a great choice for those travelers who want to take their security to the next level — there is also the smaller Venture Safe 15L . It has a wire mesh embedded into the fabric which prevents would-be thieves from slashing the bag open with a knife. All the zippers are puncture resistant and they can be clipped or locked shut. Additionally, it has an RFID signal blocking pocket which prevents thieves from stealing information from your credit cards and passports that have RFID chips. The major downside to these bags is the price — which is about $119 for the 15L and $130 for the 25L.

Pacsafe has a wide range of anti-theft travel gear on Amazon so I suggest checking out their other stuff.

2.  Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Backpack — Travelon is another company that makes a lot of great anti-theft travel gear. This bag has a lot of the exact features of the Pacsafe bags, but it is about half the price. This is a brand new bag so there are not a ton of reviews available yet, but it looks like a great option. Price: $60-$70. See on Amazon .

Our In-Depth Packing List

Not sure what to bring to Europe? We have a complete Europe travel packing list for men and a Europe travel packing list for women .

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10 Best Travel Backpack For Europe in 2023

So you’re going to Europe . Everything’s planned, your flight’s booked and all that’s left to do is find the perfect travel backpack to take on your trip. And that’s exactly what I’m going to show you here.

In this review, we’ll check out some of the best and most popular backpacks and duffle bags for travel. We’ll see some that are pretty small and perfect as carry-ons, and others that are so big that you could comfortably pack your entire closet inside them.

Does that sound good? If so, let’s get down to the details and see exactly which is the best travel backpack for Europe.

Top Product Overview

Best backpacks for europe, travel backpacks.

In this section we’ll check out a few classic travel backpacks for Europe. They usually come in several sizes, ranging from a typical carry on, to a huge pack that you could bring on a 2-month trip. Travel packs are usually front-loading, and they are a pretty convenient replacement for a classic suitcase.

Osprey Farpoint

The Farpoint is definitely one of your top choices for one bag travel in Europe. You can choose between several different sizes, two of which come with removable daypacks – perfect for wandering around the town for a few hours.

The travel pack has everything you want out of a travel backpack. In fact, it’s a backpack that is really like a suitcase.

The big difference is that it is comfortable, has a ventilated harness and backpanel, multiple compartments and pockets for the excellent organization, a laptop compartment, and plenty of compression straps to keep its load nice and tight . But you can still throw it on your back and walk anywhere without having to drag a suitcase around!

• Multiple sizes and capacities (smallest is carry on sized)
• Great organizational features
• Detachable daypack on some
• Excellent wearing comfort
• Pretty expensive
• Not great for really short people
• Larger sizes are pretty bulky

Product Information

• Osprey Farpoint 40: 21" x 14" x 9" (40L), 3.17 lbs
• Osprey Farpoint 55: 25" x 13" x 13" (55L), 3.92 lbs
• Osprey Farpoint 70: 26" x 13" x 13" (70L), 3.92 lbs
• Osprey Farpoint 80: 29" x 15" x 16" (80L), 3.88 lbs

Osprey Fairview

This is the women’s version of the Farpoint travel backpack . In terms of features, the two Osprey packs are almost exactly the same.

The Fairview is obviously slightly smaller and wider, as it was designed to fit the contours of a women’s body better. Additionally, all the pros and cons of the Farpoint travel pack apply to this one as well.

• Female specific fit
• Great organisation features
• Osprey Fairview 40: 21" x 14" x 9" (40L), 3.16 lbs
• Osprey Fairview 55: 25" x 13" x 12" (55L), 3.20 lbs
• Osprey Fairview 70: 25" x 14" x 12" (70L), 3.87 lbs

Front Loading Hybrids

If you can’t decide between a travel backpack and a duffel, why not get a hybrid? In other words, a backpack that can easily be transformed into a duffel bag and carried like one. If you’re interested, check out these hybrids.

Osprey Porter

The Porter travel backpack  is a great choice for you if you like to stay organized. It has a few different compartments, an abundance of both external and internal pockets, and sleeves for your laptop and tablet. The main compartment is  front loading , so you will be able to access all your stuff pretty easily.

It comes in  two sizes, the smaller of which can be used as a carry-on . So, if you’re a pro at packing and know that you can fit in a month’s worth of clothing into the 46 liters of the smaller Porter, definitely go for it. It’s like a suitcase on your shoulders!

• Stowaway harness
• Front loading compartment
• multiple pockets for organization
• Compatible with Osprey Daylite
• The backpanel is not ventilated
• Might not be accepted in cabin on all airlines
• Osprey Porter 46: 22" x 14" x 11" (46L), 3.6 lbs
• Osprey Porter 65: 24" x 14" x 15" (65L), 3.8 lbs

Timbuk2 Wander

The Wander travel backpack is a great convertible option. It is pretty comfortable to carry like a backpack, since it does have  a padded and ventilated backpanel and harness . However, it  does not have a hip belt  so it won’t be as comfortable as some of the Ospreys we previously saw.

And when you want to, you can just  transform it into a duffle  and carry it like that. The harness is stowaway, so you don’t have to worry about anything dragging on the ground or hanging from the travel pack. And even though it has a pretty large capacity, it is still small enough to be used as a carry-on backpack too.

• Padded laptop compartment fits all laptops
• Many pockets for organization
• Padded and ventilated harness and backpanel
• Lack of hip belt reduces carrying comfort
• Top and bottom compartments reduce space in main compartment
• No shoulder strap
• Dimensions: 22.8" x 15" x 7.48"
• Weight: 3.7 lbs
• Capacity: 40 liters

Top Loading Backpacks

Top loading packs are usually large packs that people use for backpacking. That means that they are great for trips that are many months long – as long as you can pack efficiently. If that’s what you need for your trip to Europe, check out these travel backpacks.

Osprey Atmos (And Aura)

Get  the Atmos AG backpack  if you’re looking for something with  very high capacity . It’s meant to be a hiking backpack, so you can actually wear this comfortably for hours on end . This particular Osprey has an AntiGravity harness and backpanel that will make 50lbs feel like nothing. And they are also completely padded and ventilated, which significantly improves your carrying comfort.

The travel packs are pretty large, so forget about bringing them inside the cabin. But that also means that you’ll be able to pack a lot of clothes and gear inside them, and all the different compartments and pockets  will help you organize your belongings easily.

• FlapJacket cover can be used as a daypack
• Raincover is included
• Lots of compartments, pockets and straps for your gear
• Not a great choice if you want to avoid checked baggage fees
• Can’t access the main compartment from the front
• No dedicated laptop sleeve
• Osprey Atmos 50: 33" x 15" x 15" (50L), 4.21 lbs
• Osprey Atmos 65: 34" x 15" x 16" (65L), 4.56 lbs

Osprey Aura

Quality-wise, the Aura is exactly the same as the Atmos – after all, it is a strong hiking backpack. Just the women’s version. So, all the pros and cons of Atmos also apply to this travel backpack for Europe . But size-wise, there are some differences, since this pack is meant to fit the female body better.

It is not as tall as the Atmos, and it is also somewhat lighter, which means that it will be easier for women to adjust the pack to their own bodies. And when we’re looking at a 50+ lbs pack, it is incredibly important that it fits you like a glove – if you want to avoid pain, soreness and the hospital.

• Large size great for longer trips
• Might be too much like a hiking pack for some
• Osprey Aura 50: 30" x 14" x 14" (50L), 4.18 lbs
• Osprey Aura 65: 31" x 15" x 16" (65L), 4.42 lbs

Osprey Aether

The Aether  is another large capacity pack from Osprey that can easily be used as a travel backpack. Just like the Atmos, it features an  AntiGravity harness  that will keep you comfortable in spite of how heavy the pack gets.

The foam-padded and  ventilated backpanel and shoulder straps  of this suspension system will also help with that. As long as you adjust the pack to fit your body properly.

This particular travel backpack has many different features, which include  multiple compartments, plenty of pockets everywhere, access to the main compartment from the front of the pack, and straps and attachment points for all your gear . If you are going to be carrying a lot of gear with you in Europe, this might be the perfect pack for you.

• Main compartment accessible both form the front and the top
• Excellent suspension system
• Multiple compartments and pockets for easy organization
• It is pretty heavy, with more than 5 lbs in the smallest version
• Not available in a carry on size
• Does not have a dedicated laptop or tablet sleeve
• Osprey Aether 60: 33" x 15" x 12" (60L), 5.15 lbs
• Osprey Aether 70: 33" x 16" x 13" (70L), 5.21 lbs
• Osprey Aether 85: 34" x 17" x 15" (85L), 5.37 lbs
• Duffel Bags

If you’re not really a travel backpack person, then a duffel is probably what you are looking for. They’re great alternatives, especially because they are often much lighter than traditional backpacks, but have larger capacities. In this section we’ll take a look at a few high quality duffel bags that would be a great companion for your trip in Europe!

Patagonia Black Hole Duffel Bag

The Patagonia Black Hole Duffel bag  is a great choice for travel in Europe.

For one thing, it  comes with multiple shoulder straps that allow you to carry it on your back  – just like a backpack. And considering that it comes in a 120-liter size, I’d say that’s more than useful. And the outer fabric is coated with a weather-resistant finish, the same one that is used in their winter jackets.

There aren’t too many pockets and compartments on the bag, but there are some. After all, if you’re looking for a great organization, you shouldn’t be looking at duffels at all. But you do get several  daisy chains  that allow you to attach even more gear to the exterior of your duffel.

• Features DWR finish for improved weather resistance
• The smallest duffel conforms to airlines' carry on requirements
• Very lightweight considering the size and capacity
• Larger sizes will get very heavy and uncomfortable to carry
• Not enough pockets and compartments for good organization
• No dedicated electronics compartment
• Black Hole Duffel 40L: 21" x 13.7" x 10.6" (40L), 2 lbs 0.8 oz (930 g)
• Black Hole Duffel 55L: 26.7" x 15.7" x 11.8" (55L), 2 lbs 9.1 oz (1165 g)
• Black Hole Duffel 70L: 28" x 17.5" x 13", 3 lbs 2.8 oz (1440 g)
• Black Hole Duffel 100L: 31.5 x 19.5 x 14.5"(100L), 3 lbs 9.9 oz (1640 g)

The North Face Base Camp Duffel

The North Face duffels are slightly  larger than the Patagonia ones , so if you’re looking for something with even more capacity they’re a great option. They’re also  heavier  but not by a lot, especially considering the difference in capacities.

There are several ways to carry these duffels – you get   two padded shoulder straps, so you can carry it like a backpack or like a messenger bag, and there are the comfortable carry handles  if you want to carry it in your hands.

You can choose between several different sizes,  ranging from a 50-liter carry on, to a 130-liter  monster. Since there is so much range, I’m certain you can find something that will hold enough stuff on your trip to Europe.

• Several carrying possibilities
• Multiple capacities, including both a carry on and a large duffel for a very long trip
• Lockable zippers ensure safety of your belongings and give you peace of mind
• Very few compartments and pockets
• Pretty heavy for a duffel
• Carry handles are not padded
• The North Face Base Camp Duffel S: 20.87" x 12.8" x 12.8" (50L), 2.7 lbs
• The North Face Base Camp Duffel M: 25.4" x 13.9" x 13.9" (71L), 3.5 lbs
• The North Face Base Camp Duffel L: 27.56" x 15.75" x 15.75" (95L), 4.05 lbs
• The North Face Base Camp Duffel XL:29.73" x 17.72" x 17.72" (132L), 4.4 lbs

What To Consider

Before you can find the perfect bag for your trip to Europe, you have to know what you are looking for. Here are the top things that you should consider when purchasing luggage.

Best Type Of Backpack For Europe

We’ll check out several different types of backpacks, including both front and top-loading ones, duffels, hybrid packs etc. If you know what you are looking for, use the quick navigation to jump to that particular section.

If you don’t know what you want – well you have to figure it out. Here’s a little help:

Travel backpacks are great for longer trips, and for people who will spend most of their time on foot and need their stuff with them at all times. The same goes for large packs for backpacking.

Duffels are usually great as carry-ons (as long as they fit airlines’ requirements), and they are the best choice for shorter trips. However, carrying a large duffel around for hours will make you uncomfortable, and I don’t recommend getting one for a trip longer than five days.

Ladies, check out backpacks specifically made for women. And no, it’s not because of the color or anything; these packs (especially the Osprey ones) were made just for your body and they will fit you much better then men’s packs. Which means that you will be more comfortable and not in pain.

Top Loading Vs. Front Loading Backpacks

This is a huge difference – do you want a pack to put all your stuff in, or a pack that you can use to carry your stuff just when you’re out exploring?

If it’s the latter, go for a top loading pack because front loading packs are very impractical for on-the-go use.

Size Of The Backpack or Bag

First, you need to consider how long you are going to be away, and if you plan to bring any other luggage with you. So, the more stuff you want to put inside the backpack, the bigger the pack you should get.

However, you also need to keep your own body in mind. Some backpacks will be way too large for petite people, while others might be too small for very tall people. Definitely check out the dimensions of a pack before you press the buy button, to avoid any nasty surprises when the package arrives.

Those are the most important factors that you have to consider. I hope that you now have a good idea of what you need, so let’s check out which backpacks are your best options for travel in Europe!

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How to Choose the Best Travel Bag for Europe

When you are sifting through the options for the best travel bag for Europe, you will likely find that all will fall within the following categories: backpack, wheeled suitcase and duffel bag.

Each has a stand-out feature that separates them from the others and it can be difficult to decide which best suits your travel style. We can’t sway you any one way, for the simple fact that we have carried all types of bags during our travels in Europe. 

Below we will break down what to consider in each option and where their advantages and disadvantages lie.

Top 5 Travel Bags for Europe

Table of Contents

Quick Answer: Best Travel Bags for Europe

• Best Duffel: Patagonia Black Hole 60 Liter Duffle
• Best Budget Duffel: Shacke’s Travel Duffel Express Weekender Bag
• Best Hard Shell Carry on Roller bag: Samsonite Omni Expandable Hardside Luggage with Spinner Wheels
• Best Soft Side Carry on Roller bag: Travelpro Platinum Elite 21-inch Expandable Spinner
• Best Budget Carry on Roller bag: AmazonBasics 20-inch Hardside Spinner Luggage
• Best Men’s Carry on Backpack: Osprey Farpoint
• Best Men’s Budget Carry on Backpack: Arc’Teryx Index 15 Nylon-Ripstop Backpack
• Best Women’s Carry on Backpack: Osprey Farview 40L  
• Best Women’s Budget Backpack:   Eagle Creek Women’s Global Companion 40
• Best Checked Roller bag: Travelpro Luggage Maxlite 5 Lightweight Expandable Suitcase

Backpack vs Suitcase vs Duffel Bag

Choosing a Backpack

Travel backpacks are the top choice for travelers that intend to travel to multiple countries over the course of weeks. This is where the hands-free carrying abilities of a backpack allow travelers to feel more mobile and less restricted than their suitcase or duffel counterparts.

If this sounds like you, here are some considerations to take into account before finalizing your choice.  If everything checks out for you, this could be your best travel bag for Europe. 

The two things to think about when deciding which size travel backpack is best suited for you is how long you intend to travel and if you want the ability to carry it onto your flight.

The standard carry on size requirement for most major airlines is 45 linear inches or 22 x 14 x 9in. If you find a bag that fits in these parameters, you will likely be able to avoid the hefty bag check charges as well as the hassles and delays caused from checking your bag.

Most 45L backpacks will easily fall into this carry-on range while still giving you plenty of space as long as you pack light.

However, if you plan on traveling for months you may find yourself leaning towards a larger size backpack, so it can fit all of your necessities and any goodies you decided to pick up along the way.

Travel backpacks can range from 25L to 85L.  Even if you are planning extended travel you probably don’t want to exceed a 60L backpack. Anything larger will be uncomfortable and degrade the mobility benefits a backpack offers.

Materials & Weight

When traveling around Europe you want to make sure you have a reliable bag that can handle the array of stress you will be putting it under. You don’t want to be stuck miles away from your hotel when a backpack strap breaks or a puncture leaves your contents spilling everywhere.

You also don’t want a material so heavy that you must give up necessities to cut weight and save your back. That being said here are some of the best materials to look for in your travel bag.

• Dyneema Fabric – This is the best material you can find when it comes to travel backpacks . It is extremely durable without forfeiting its lightweight structure. You will mostly find this fabric in ultralight hiking backpacks, but these can easily be integrated as a travel bag. The downside is they are quite expensive.
• RipStop Nylon – This is the most prevalent fabric used in travel backpacks. It is naturally water-resistant and contains grid-like threads that help prevent punctures and tearing. They can also be easily patched if a tear occurs.  It is not as lightweight as Dyneema but is lighter than any other option.
• Polyester – While polyester is the most affordable, it is also the material you want to avoid most in a travel bag. It is bulky and does not stand up against wear and tear well. You will see this fabric used often because it is so cheap but don’t be tempted by the price tag.

Top Loading v. Panel Loading

There are two styles of travel backpacks to choose from: top-loading and panel loading. Top loading backpacks simply mean all of the contents are loaded from the top.

While this gives some security against items falling out it also leads to a lack of organization and difficulty getting to your content on the fly.

Panel loading backpacks, on the other hand, open flat allowing you to pack it like a normal suitcase giving you maximum organization and access.

Pros and cons of choosing a backpack

• Gives you hands-free travel
• Allows ease of movement / increased mobility
• Easy to store in hostel lockers
• Easier to navigate stairs and cobbled streets
• Not as secure as a suitcase
• Not good for those with back issues
• Tend to be expensive

Choosing a Wheeled Suitcase

Regular wheeled suitcases still run the market for “traditional” travelers.  These are the travelers that aren’t planning to move from through various hostels or hotels and don’t have a need to carry their luggage regularly.  

In this case wheeled suitcases give you a secure and durable alternative to other options. Personally, I think that wheeled suitcases are a great contender for the best travel bag for Europe.

Here are a few things to consider if choosing a wheeled suitcase.

Suitcases probably have a large array of sizes ranging from the carry-on 19 inch Cabin size to the 30 inch large. It will be up to your discretion to decide what size is best for you based on what you need.

It is still important to consider the external conditionals that will affect the level of difficulty you will have to transport your wheeled suitcase.

For example, if you know you are staying in an area with cobbled streets or your room in your hotel is on the 5 th floor and doesn’t have an elevator you may want to opt for a carry-on size, so you will easily be able to pick it up when needed.

Hard-Sided v. Soft-Sided

While soft-sided rolling bags are still the most popular choice, hard-sided bags are becoming more and more popular. Each respectively offers their own positive and negative characteristics.

Hard-sided rolling bags have come to fruition due to their superior ability to protect their contents. If you intend to transport breakable items regularly this may be your best option.

 Its hard shell allows gives it more durability and theft protection. They are also water-resistant, so you won’t end up with soggy clothes when traveling in heavy rains.

The drawback to these over their soft-sided brothers is the weight. Even the ultra-light models will still be a pound or two heavier than the soft-shell options. This can make a huge difference in expense if you are planning to check your bag.   

They are also priced the highest of any travel bag option.

Soft-sided bags, on the other hand, remain lighter in weight, offer you quick access external pockets and usually have multiple handles for carrying.  Some of these bags even feature shoulder straps that can turn your luggage into a temporary backpack when the need arises.

Pros and cons of choosing a wheeled suitcase

• Generally, offer better organization capabilities
• Safer when checked at the airport
• More room for packing
• No weight on your shoulders
• Difficult to maneuver on streets, trains or in heavy crowds
• Don’t fit in hostel storage lockers
• Potential for broken wheels
• Heavier than backpacks
• Difficult to carry upstairs

Choosing a Duffel Bag

Duffel bags are the perfect lightweight option for travelers that want to have easier access to their gear without the hassle of wheels or weight of toting everything on their back.

Here are some things to think about before settling on a duffel bag.

The great thing about the duffel bag for traveling Europe is their size. Almost all of the best bags adhere to the standard size requirement from major airlines and can fit in the overhead bin or below the seat in from of you.

You can choose from smaller bags, but the average-sized bag holds just as much as a carry-on backpack or suitcase without having to break out the measuring tape.

Extra Features

A duffel travel bag is extremely versatile when it comes to options for carrying. Almost all duffel bags come with their signature two handle quick grab straps at the center of the bag making maneuvering and quick-moving simple.

Yet, many of the best travel bags offer and an additional end-to-end strap allowing you to throw the bag over your shoulder when the need arises. Others have upped the ante even further by adding wheels.  

These characteristics mean your duffel bag can serve all the same requirements as a wheeled suitcase or backpack with a simple flick of the wrist, yet will still retain their ease of access, external compartments and lightweight nature that set them apart.

The materials you are going to find in a duffel bag are going to be the same as those found in backpacks except Dyneema. A rip-stop nylon duffel bag is a good option for any level of travel.

Just make sure that if you are traveling to areas with heavy rains that you get a bag with a water-resistant coating to keep your clothes from getting wet in transit.

Pros and cons of choosing a duffel bag

• Carrying versatility
• Lighter in weight
• Ability to pack more items in the same space
• Can be difficult to carry over long periods
• Quicker and easier access to contents

Recommendations for the Best Travel Bag for Europe

American Tourister Moonlight Expandable Hardside Luggage with Spinner Wheels

This hard-side luggage was made for the traveler who brings whimsy and fun on every journey. This 21″ spinner was designed for those who love a dash of fun and with great color choices to match your unique personality.

This hard-side is lightweight and easy to maneuver with spinner wheels and a retractable handle. The suitcase opens book style with compartments on both sides that offer plenty of room. 

• Split case packing with two large compartments
• Mesh blouse pocket on the zipper door panel
• Interior modesty
• Color pop straps
• Rugged split case construction
• Single spinner wheels for a smooth ride
• Expands 1.5″ for added capacity
• Retractable grip top and side carry handle
• Beveled push-button locking handle that easy to grip

Check American Tourister Moonlight Expandable Hardside Luggage price at Amazon

Osprey Farpoint|Fairview

Lightweight and streamlined, the Farpoint & Fairview Series is an ideal travel pack for fast-moving globetrotters. Despite their minimalist weights, these full-featured packs offer plenty of organization and travel-focused features.

The zip-off day-pack provides additional storage and is perfect for carrying around town by itself. The stowaway harness and hip-belt disappears for safe keeping when you check your bag, and durable fabrics offer added protection.

• Zip off daypack
• Stowaway harness & hipbelt
• Durable fabrics
• Large zipper panel
• Lockable sliders
• Dual front compression
• Padded laptop sleeve

Check Osprey Farpoint | Osprey Fairview price at Amazon

Patagonia Black Hole 60 Liter Duffel

Our go-to Black Hole Duffel. This workhorse organizes your gear and has enough space for a fun-hog weekend or a well-organized extended trip. Made with a burly, lightweight 100% recycled polyester fabric, 100% recycled polyester lining and 100% recycled nylon webbing.

• Burly recycled polyester rip-stop
• Highly weather-resistant TPU-film laminate
• DWR (durable water repellent) finish
• Large opening to the main compartment
• Zippered side pocket
• Mesh pockets in lid
• Padded, removable shoulder straps
• Reinforced haul handles for easy carrying
• Padded base protects contents
• Sturdy, reinforced daisy chains for lashing

Check Patagonia Black Hole 60 L Duffel price at Amazon

Eagle Creek Load Warrior 22

The Load Warrior is built strong to tackle any adventure. This is the ultimate carry on bag in an ultra-light package, built for maximum activity and durability. Eagle Creek is a global tribe of travelers committed to preserving and protecting the places we live, work and travel.

The company has been around for more than 40 years and, from city parks to exotic destinations, they take pride in equipping you with versatile gear to take you beyond your fears and outside your comfort zone. 

• Seamless Exo-Skeleton
• Reinforced corners
• Top compartment for quick-grab items
• Over-sized treaded wheels
• Exterior lockable zippers
• Reflective accents
• Multiple haul handles
• Exterior compression straps

Check Eagle Creek Load Warrior 22 price on Amazon

Deuter Transit 50 Travel Backpack

Deuter Transit 50 is a great carrying system for different back lengths which guarantees a good fit by having a multi-stage VariQuick adjustment system. Carry heavy loads in comfort thanks to a stow-able back carrying system with flexible X-Frame and ergonomically shaped hip fins for perfect load transfer.

Made from 600 den Polyester thread and with a thick PU coating, this multi-purpose fabric is robust and lightweight. It is most suitable for backpacks, used in average conditions to keep the weight to a minimum.

• U-shaped zip opens up completely for full access to the main compartment
• Concealable back system
• Separate bottom compartment for shoes, sleeping bag etc.
• Luggage stabilizing straps
• Two grab handles
• Padded detachable carry strap
• Compact detachable day-pack
• Compression straps

Check Deuter Transit 50 Travel Backpack price on Amazon

Not finding what you are looking for? Check out our favorite places to go shopping for travel gear.

• Shop Columbia – The industry leader in outdoor apparel and products; You can find anything from great jackets, gloves, hats, shirts and travel pants.
• Shop REI – They offer some of the best outdoor gear around. We love REI since they have a year Love it or hate it no questions guarantee.
• Shop Moosejaw – Has a huge selection of outdoor gear at killer prices.

More on Travel Gear:

• Best Travel Towels for your Next Trip
• 15 Best Safari Bags for your Next Adventure
• 12 Best Down Vests
• Best Travel Daypack: Top 12
• Best Backpacking Stoves for Hiking & Travel
• How to Choose the Best GPS for Hiking
• Best Carry on Backpacks for Travel
• Best Sleeping Bag Liners: Top 12
• Best Compact Binoculars for Outdoors & Travel
• Best Drones For Travel From A Real Drone User
• Best Hiking Backpack for your Next Adventure
• 85 Best Travel Gifts for Travelers
• Best Travel Rain Jacket to Stay Dry on the Go
• The Best GoPro Accessories for Adventure Travel
• Best Sleeping Bag for Cold Weather-From Africa to Greenland
• Photography Gear Every Adventure Traveler Should Carry
• Ultimate Travel Photography Gear List
• How To Wear A Buff Headwear-It’s Easy!
• Affordable Travel Gear Every Adventurer Should Carry

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Travel planning resources, about david stock.

I have always been an outdoorsman so becoming an adventure traveler was just the next natural step. I love nature, I love to get off the beaten path and I like to explore. I enjoy scuba diving and cars. And yes, Lina and I have a naked dog.

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Best Bag for Europe Travel: A Complete Guide

By: Author Hannah Cooper

Posted on Last updated: March 20, 2024

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What is the best bag for Europe travel? Actually – that’s a trick question. The type of daypack or purse you take on your European trip will depend on your specific destinations and what kind of itinerary you have in mind. 

Ultimately, the best purse for traveling Europe will be comfortable enough and roomy to see you through a whole day of sightseeing. It’s recommended to pick a bag with security elements to protect you from petty crime.

Seeing as residents of many European cities are known for dressing stylishly, you also want to choose a backpack or purse that helps you blend in. 

If you have a mixed bag of activities, you’ll likely want to take one or two bags that are easy to pack. This guide will match you with your perfect travel purse for Europe. 

What is the Best Bag for Europe Travel?

The season, climate, and weather conditions of your chosen destinations will play a big part when choosing your bag for daily wear. These are a couple of fundamentals that contribute to the best bag for Europe travel.

Lightweight material

All the best purses for traveling in Europe are made from light, breathable fabrics that are durable. Leather and faux leather are fine for city travel during the cooler seasons but summer calls for a canvas material or a woven textile. If you’re heading to a rainy place, such as London , consider a water-resistant bag or one large enough to stash an umbrella. 

Not too small, not too large

The best purse for traveling Europe will be small enough to accompany you in a museum (most museums in places like Italy and France don’t let you bring larger bags inside) yet roomy enough to store your daily necessities. In some cases, you might have to check your bag and it’s useful to have a smaller purse inside. 

Subject to where you are going and the season, you’ll want to consider carrying a spare sweater, sun hat, sunscreen, umbrella, notebook, camera, reusable bottle of water, and snacks. 

Paris is a beautiful city, one of my favorites in the world, but you definitely want to make sure you have the right bag when traveling around the city. Both for pickpocketing protection and to have enough space to carry all of your baguettes 🥖.

Theft-resistant

While an anti-theft bag isn’t essential, the best bag for Europe travel will at least have zipped pockets and secure fastenings.

Pickpocketing is common in crowded areas in Paris , Barcelona , and Rome , especially on public transport. Therefore, it’s wise to avoid gaping handbags, purses that don’t close securely, or satchels that are easy to snatch from your shoulder. 

What Luggage is Best for European Travel?

Before you decide on the best purse for travel in Europe, you’ll also need to consider your main luggage. Ah, the big debate: rolling suitcase or backpack?

If you are planning a multi-destination trip around Europe, you’ll want to travel as lightly as possible. The train is the best means of getting around Europe although sometimes flights are required. Single fares can be as little as $20 although budget airline providers may charge at least double that amount for a checked bag. Therefore, it’s worth sticking with a carry-on to keep costs low. 

Honestly, there are pros and cons to both types of bag and ultimately it comes down to personal taste. 

Best Carry-on Suitcase for Europe

A wheeled suitcase is far better in terms of packability and is more comfortable while transiting through airports and train terminals. However, they’re a hindrance on cobblestone streets, hills, and elevator-free accommodations – staples of many European towns.

Samsonite is the natural go-to for checked and carry-on suitcases. The Samsonite hardside spinner glides along the terminal floor with zero effort and only weighs 6.7 lbs (3 kg). It has a TSA-approved combination lock for security and is accepted as a carry-on by the majority of airlines. They also have a checked luggage spinner if you’re planning on checking a bag.

Suitcases aren’t always the best choice for traveling in Europe if you are going to be walking down lots of cobbled streets and taking public transportation. In that case, backpacks are a better choice.

Best Carry-on Backpack for Traveling Europe

Provided it fits right and isn’t overpacked, backpacks are more comfortable to carry around central neighborhoods. But it depends what you plan on carrying in your bag.

Photographers will want the best camera backpack for travel to protect their equipment. Meanwhile, minimalist travelers will want the best lightweight travel bag that fits the essentials and isn’t too large. 

There are lots of pedestrianized areas in European cities and backpacks are usually easier to heave up the stairs to a penthouse apartment. But the downside is that they’re pretty irritating to organize your things in. Using packing cubes will streamline the process.

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack is adventure-ready, carry-on approved, and has a weight-distributing system. It packs more like a mini suitcase and has lots of zippered pouches and compartments. The 35L pack is ideal for up to two weeks of light travel in Europe during summer but it’s available in larger and smaller sizes too. 

Best Hybrid Bag for Europe Travel

Any Osprey product is a splurge although these bags are designed to last. The Osprey Transporter 120L Wheeled Travel Duffel Bag has a neat pair of wheelers that tuck away when you fancy switching over to the stowable harness. Technically, it’s designed as a carry-on bag. However, you’ll need to double-check the size as per your airline as in some cases it will be sent as checked luggage. 

Best Bag for Europe Travel

Covering a variety of styles and purposes, this guide will help you find the best purse for travel in Europe. 

In Italy, France, and Spain there are tons of water fountains in the streets where you can refill your water bottle, so be sure to have enough space in your day bag.

1. Everyday Canvas Backpack – Best Bag for Europe Travel in Summer/Spring

Wherever you are in the world, you’ll always spot people sporting a nifty little Fjällräven backpack . These Scandinavian-designed bags were initially fashioned for Swedish schoolchildren and they do have a nostalgic feel. In terms of travel, they’re just the right size to carry your daily essentials.

The material is designed to be durable and water-resistant. As such, it’s one of the best overall purses for traveling in Europe across all destinations and seasons. However, it’s particularly appealing for summertime travel when you need something lightweight and large enough to store sunscreen and water. 

As Fjällräven backpacks are quite costly, you can always shop around for a similar canvas bag. This Fjällräven knockoff is much cheaper but works like a charm.

A satchel backpack is an alternative design. This vintage canvas backpack is stylish and versatile to wear with your European travel outfits. There are two pouches under the main flap for storing your wallet and phone although you’ll want to swivel the bag to the front of your body while traveling on the metro or in crowded areas.

2. Chic Leather Backpack – Best Purse for Traveling Europe in Fall/Winter

It has to be said that some destinations in Europe require a fancier dress sense (we’re looking at you, Italy ). When traveling in stylish capitals, a leather backpack might help you feel a little more stylish and less like a backpacker.

This Cole Haan backpack also converts into a crossbody bag or a tote bag. Therefore, it’s practical to carry during the day but you can opt to wear it like a classic handbag at night. It has lots of zippered pockets and compartments where you can stow away your valuables. As it has a laptop sleeve, it’ll get plenty of use back home as well. In terms of a cheaper option, this vegan leather travel backpack is an alternative. It’s not convertible but it does have plenty of pockets. 

The only thing about leather is that it’s uncomfortable during hotter weather and isn’t ideal for hiking.

London is a fantastic city to explore as a tourist, but make sure your bag is zipped up for those busy tube rides.

3. Small Crossbody Bag – Best Purse for Europe Travel at Night

A small purse for evenings is a must when packing for Europe. The last thing you want to do is lug a backpack around tapas taverns and rooftop bars. Crossbody styles are generally safer as you’re less likely to fall victim to opportunistic bag snatchers and pickpockets.

Travelon’s anti-theft Heritage crossbody bag has a five-point security system. This includes a slash-resistant mesh barrier on all four sides plus a lock-down strap and locking compartments. The size is perfect for evenings but you can also use this as a day purse if you travel light while sightseeing. 

But, if you literally just want something to keep your phone, debit card, and cash safe on nights out, this cell phone bag might suit you better. This way, you can sip your spritz without a care in the world. Either of these purses is an ideal addition to your packing list for Paris , Rome, London, and any other European capital. 

On the other hand, a beach vacation in Southern Europe calls for a fun, beaded crossbody bag that’ll accompany you for golden hour sundowners and seafood platters. 

4. Compact Sling Bag – Best Purse for Traveling Light in Europe

Herschel joins Fjällräven as another of the OG brands making travel-friendly bags for all destinations. This Herschel sling bag is a casual option that’ll work well for days when you’re not in the mood to cart a larger purse around. It’s also the best purse for Europe travel if you’re planning on taking tours as you can usually leave a larger daypack or tote on the bus and keep this one on your person. That said, while it looks small, this bag is large enough to carry a bottle of water and most 15″ laptops.

If the Herschel bag isn’t to your tastes, have a look at this Petunia Pickle Bottom sling bag. It was originally engineered for mums on the move but has become just as popular with vacationers and backpackers. The material is water-resistant and the design is super practical for city travel. It swings around to the front while you’re on the metro or perusing Christmas markets and has a zipped pocket for your passport and wallet. 

Greece is a magical place and if you are simply planning to island hop, you won’t need too much luggage or a very large day bag. Just big enough for your hotel key and a beach towel.

5. Functional Hiking Rucksack – Best Bag for Hiking in Europe 

If you’re planning on hiking in Europe then you’ll need a decent pack to take on the trails. The Jack Wolfskin Velocity Backpack is actually designed as a biking pack. It’s super lightweight and has an ACS TIGHT back system that avoids tugging your shoulder and keeps you cool.

As it’s a 12-liter capacity, it’s not a huge bag although you can just about fit a small laptop inside if necessary. You can easily squeeze it into your main luggage and use it for hiking in places like Scotland or Northern Itlay while sticking to a less athletic purse when you’re mooching around cities.

6. Packable Tote Bag – Best Bag for Souvenir Shopping 

If you’re planning on picking up a couple of mementos in Europe, it’s handy to have a simple cotton tote bag. These pack down super small in the bottom of your regular purse until you need them. In addition to using your tote for any souvenirs and impulse purchases, you can use it when picking up groceries for your Airbnb.  

Plus, they’re far kinder to the environment than plastic bags sometimes handed out in gift shops and markets. This corduroy tote bag packs nice and small and is sturdy enough to carry heavier items. It also doubles up as a personal item on the plane or a lunch bag for lengthy train rides.

On the other hand, the bags in this six-pack of washable totes are even lighter individually. Plus, they let you spread the load across multiple bags.

No trip to Paris is complete without a few souvenirs, even if it’s just the edible kind!

7. Beach Tote and Swimsuit Bag – Best Bag for Europe Travel near the Beach 

You’ll only need a classic beach bag if your European itinerary is focused heavily on beach days and poolside R&R. Whether you are traveling to somewhere like the Costa del Sol , a beautiful Italian beach town , sunny Nice , or over to a Greek island like Paros or Naxos , there are tons of great beaches in Europe to enjoy during the hot summer months.

In general, you could just use the same tote bag you’ve packed for souvenirs when heading to the beach. However, it’s useful to take a waterproof wet bag where you can stash your damp swimsuit after a swim. It doubles up as a laundry bag too!

If you do want something simple for carrying your towel and book down to the sand, a mesh beach tote bag is all you need for Europe. The mesh design keeps odors at bay and is tear-resistant. It packs down super small in your luggage and is machine washable. It’s the perfect addition to your summer packing list for Italy and the Mediterranean.

8. Laptop-friendly Backpack – Best Bag for Digital Nomads Traveling in Europe 

If you’re planning on working from the road in Europe, you might prefer to take a bag designed for tech gear. In fairness, the larger bags listed so far will work for carting your laptop down to the local co-working space. However, if you travel with extra gear such as a tablet, keyboard, and mouse, you’ll want something more pro. 

This convertible laptop backpack is one of the best digital nomad purses for traveling in Europe. It has a padded laptop pouch for devices up to 15.6″ plus zipped pockets for cables and gizmos. The material is waterproof, breathable, and lightweight with double padded straps for comfort. Plus, you have the option of carrying it as a backpack, shoulder purse, or tote. 

9. Discrete Belt Bag – Best Purse for Backpacking in Europe

A belt bag isn’t strictly necessary for European travel, especially if you’re planning on taking a crossbody bag for evenings out. However, if you’re backpacking and planning on spending a lot of time transiting through bus and train stations then it’s quite handy for hiding your passport and documents.

This four-zipper belt bag is designed to carry your smartphone, keys, cash, passport, lip balm, and other little essentials. It’s the best unisex, mini travel purse for Europe. 

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Home > Guide To The Best Travel Products > 17 Best Cross Body Bag For Travel In Europe In 2024

17 Best Cross Body Bag For Travel In Europe In 2024

Here are my recommendations for the 17 best cross-body bags for travel in Europe. You’ll find all sizes, family-friendly & antitheft options.

Travel requires many different things, including baggage . Where you put your belongings is just as important as what you actually take with you. It’s no wonder the luggage industry is booming!

Of course, you don’t only need a suitcase; you also need a carry-on bag and something to take with you on trips once you’re at your destination. For instance, if you’re heading off on a city break, do you want to be walking around your new location with a huge bag on your back? Probably not!

This is why I always have a crossbody travel bag with me during a trip . Actually, I use one every day.

If you are more of a backpack person, we have a massive list of women’s backpacks we love.

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Why You Need A Crossbody Bag For Travel In Europe

Why exactly do you need crossbody travel bags when you venture off somewhere? Why won’t any old bag just do for your European travels?

Well, it comes down to a few different things – first, fashion; second, functionality; and third, security .

These are all pretty important things when you’re on the go, and for those reasons, you need a bag you can trust and one that will stand up to the rigors of travel, both the actual getting from A to B part of the deal and when you’re out sightseeing too.

Crossbody Bags Reviews

All around travel crossbody bags, 1. lululemon night festival micro belt bag, star rating: ★★★★★ (5/5).

• Sleek and Stylish Design: The Lululemon Night Festival Micro Belt Bag features a sleek and stylish design that complements various outfits, making it a fashionable accessory.
• Compact Size: Despite its compact size, it offers enough space for your essentials like keys, cell phone, wallet, and a few small items, making it perfect for on-the-go activities.
• High-Quality Materials: Lululemon is known for its premium materials and craftsmanship, ensuring the bag’s durability and longevity.
• Adjustable Belt: The adjustable belt allows for a comfortable and secure fit, accommodating different body sizes.
• Versatile Wear: You can wear it as a traditional belt bag around your waist or as a crossbody bag for added versatility.
• Lululemon Quality: The brand’s commitment to quality and functionality shines through in this accessory.
• Price: Lululemon products often come with a higher price tag, which may not be budget-friendly for some shoppers.
• Limited Storage: Due to its small size, it may not be suitable for those who need to carry larger items or a lot of belongings.

In summary, the Lululemon Night Festival Micro Belt Bag is an excellent choice for individuals looking for a stylish and compact accessory to carry their essentials. Its versatile design, premium materials, and adjustable belt make it a convenient and fashionable option. However, it may not be ideal for those with extensive storage needs or budget constraints.

2. Carhartt Legacy Women’s Crossbody Carry All

Star rating: ★★★★ (4/5).

• Durability: Carhartt is known for its rugged and durable products, and this crossbody bag is no exception.
• Spacious: With ample room and multiple inner pockets, it’s great for carrying a variety of items like lip balm, making it suitable for both daily use and travel.
• Adjustable Strap: The adjustable strap ensures a comfortable fit, accommodating different body types.
• Classic Design: The simple and timeless design makes it one of the best versatile bags and suitable for various occasions.
• High-Quality Materials: Constructed with high-quality materials, it’s built to withstand wear and tear.
• Lack of Security Features: It doesn’t have anti-theft or RFID-blocking features, so it may not be the best choice for those concerned about security during travel.

The Carhartt Legacy Women’s Crossbody Carry All is a durable and spacious option for individuals seeking a reliable bag for various purposes. Its classic design and adjustable strap provide both functionality and style. However, it lacks specific security features, which may be a consideration for some buyers.

3. Baggallini Cross Over Crossbody Bag (Lightweight, Water Resistant)

• Lightweight and Water Resistant: Ideal for outdoor activities and travel, this bag can handle various weather conditions.
• Organization: Multiple interior pockets and compartments help keep your belongings organized.
• Adjustable Strap: The adjustable crossbody straps ensures a comfortable fit.
• Stylish and Versatile: Its design combines functionality with style, making it suitable for a wide range of activities.
• Durable Build: Made with quality materials, it’s built to last.
• Not Ideal for Heavier Loads: Due to its lightweight design, it may not be the best choice for carrying heavier items.

The Baggallini Cross Over Crossbody Bag is a lightweight and versatile option for those who prioritize organization and style. Its water-resistant properties make it suitable for outdoor adventures, while its interior slip pockets keep your belongings tidy. However, it may not be the best choice for carrying heavier items.

4. Crossbody Casual Messenger Bag

• Affordable: This bag offers good value for the price, making it accessible to budget-conscious shoppers.
• Casual Design: Its simple and casual design is suitable for everyday use.
• Adjustable Strap: The adjustable strap allows for a customized fit.
• Spacious: It provides enough room for essentials like a wallet, keys, and a small tablet or book.
• Various Color Options: Available in bright and neutral color combos, allowing you to choose your preferred style.
• Limited Durability: It may not be as durable as higher-end options, and the materials may show signs of wear over time.

The Crossbody Casual Messenger Bag is an affordable and practical choice for individuals seeking a budget-friendly option for daily use. Its casual design and adjustable strap offer versatility, but it may not withstand heavy wear and tear over an extended period.

5. OGIO Women’s Brooklyn Tablet Purse

• Tablet Compartment: Designed with a dedicated tablet compartment, it’s perfect for tech-savvy individuals on the go.
• Stylish Design: Its modern and stylish design makes it suitable for various occasions, including work and travel.
• Organization: Multiple compartments and interior slip pocket help keep your belongings organized.
• Adjustable Strap: The adjustable strap ensures a comfortable fit.
• High-Quality Brand: OGIOis known for its quality and durability, providing peace of mind.
• Not Ideal for Heavier Loads: It may not be the best choice for those needing to carry a lot of items, as it’s designed with a more streamlined profile.

The OGIO Women’s Brooklyn Tablet Purse is a stylish and tech-friendly option for individuals who prioritize organization and modern aesthetics. Its dedicated tablet compartment and quality brand reputation make it an attractive choice. However, it may not be suitable for those with extensive storage needs.

Brands We Use And Trust

Crossbody bags for moms, 6. waterfly crossbody sling backpack/daypack.

• Versatile Design: This sling backpack/daypack offers multiple carrying options, making it suitable for various activities such as hiking, biking, or everyday use.
• Lightweight and Compact: Designed for outdoor enthusiasts, it’s lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry on the go.
• Ample Storage: Despite its compact size, it provides enough room for essentials, including a water bottle and small items.
• Adjustable Strap: The adjustable crossbody strap ensures a comfortable fit.
• Durable Build: Constructed with quality materials, it’s built to withstand outdoor adventures.
• Casual Aesthetic: While it’s perfect for outdoor activities, it may not be the most stylish choice for formal occasions.

The WATERFLY Crossbody Sling Backpack/Daypack is a versatile and practical choice for outdoor enthusiasts and active individuals. Its lightweight design and multiple carrying options make it suitable for various activities, though it may not be the most stylish option for formal settings.

7. Kipling Women’s Gabbie Crossbody, Lightweight Everyday Purse

• Lightweight and Compact: Designed for daily use, it’s lightweight and doesn’t add unnecessary bulk.
• Stylish Design: Kipling is known for its playful and colorful designs, making this crossbody purse suitable for fashion-conscious individuals.
• Organization: Multiple pockets and compartments help keep your belongings well-organized.
• Adjustable Strap: The adjustable crossbody strap allows for a comfortable and customizable fit.
• Quality Brand: Kipling products are known for their quality and durability.
• Limited Space: It may not be suitable for those needing to carry larger items or a lot of belongings.

The Kipling Women’s Gabbie Crossbody is a lightweight and stylish option for individuals seeking a daily purse. Its playful design and brand reputation for quality make it an attractive choice. However, it may not accommodate those with extensive storage needs.

8. Baggallini Everywhere Bag with RFID

• RFID Protection: This bag features RFID-blocking technology to safeguard your credit cards and personal information.
• Versatile Design: It’s suitable for everyday use, travel, or even as a work bag.
• Spacious and Organized: Multiple pockets and compartments offer excellent organization and ample storage space.
• Adjustable Strap: The adjustable crossbody strap provides a comfortable fit.
• Stylish and Functional: It combines fashion with functionality, making it versatile for various occasions.
• Higher Price: The added security features can make it more expensive compared to non-RFID bags.

The Baggallini Everywhere Bag with RFID is a secure and organized choice for individuals concerned about personal information security. Its versatile design and ample storage space make it suitable for various purposes, though it may come at a slightly higher price point.

9. Sherpani Dispatch Convertible Backpack, Tote, Crossbody Bag

• Convertible Design: This bag can be used as a backpack, tote, or crossbody bag, providing versatility for different activities and preferences.
• Stylish Aesthetics: Its design combines fashion and functionality, making it suitable for various occasions.
• Organization: Multiple pockets and compartments help keep your belongings organized.
• Adjustable Straps: It offers adjustable straps for a comfortable and customizable fit.
• Quality Materials: Sherpani is known for using quality materials, ensuring durability.
• Potential Limited Space: Depending on the configuration, it may not have as much space as dedicated backpacks or totes.

The Sherpani Dispatch Convertible Backpack, Tote, Crossbody Bag is a versatile and stylish choice for individuals seeking a multifunctional bag. Its convertible design and quality materials make it an attractive option. However, it may have limited space compared to dedicated backpacks or totes.

Antitheft Crossbody Bags

10. travelon anti-theft heritage crossbody bag.

• Anti-Theft Features: Thisbag is equipped with multiple security features, including locking zippers, RFID-blocking pockets, and cut-resistant straps, making it ideal for travelers concerned about safety.
• Spacious and Organized: With multiple pockets and compartments, it offers ample space to organize your essentials, including a tablet or e-reader.
• Adjustable Strap: The adjustable crossbody strap provides a comfortable fit and allows for customization.
• Stylish Design: Its heritage-inspired design combines fashion with functionality, making it suitable for various settings.
• Durable Build: Constructed with quality materials, it’s built to withstand wear and tear.
• Higher Price: The added security features can make it more expensive compared to non-anti-theft bags.

The Travelon Anti-Theft Heritage Crossbody Bag is a secure and organized choice for travelers and those concerned about personal safety. Its anti-theft features and ample storage space make it suitable for various purposes, though it may come at a higher price point.

11. Travelon Anti-Theft Tour Bag

• Anti-Theft Features: Similar to the Heritage Crossbody Bag, this bag also boasts anti-theft technology, providing enhanced security for your belongings.
• Compact and Lightweight: Designed for minimalists and travelers, it’s lightweight and won’t weigh you down.
• Spacious and Organized: Despite its compact size, it offers well-organized pockets and compartments for essentials.
• Heritage-Inspired Design: Its design combines a vintage aesthetic with modern security features.
• Limited Space: Due to its compact size, it may not be suitable for those needing to carry larger items.

The Travelon Anti-Theft Heritage Tour Bag offers enhanced security in a compact and lightweight package. Its anti-theft features and organized design make it suitable for travelers and minimalists. However, it may not have enough space for those with larger storage needs.

12. Sherpani Vale Anti-Theft Crossbody Purse

• Anti-Theft Features: This bag features RFID-blocking technology for added security against electronic theft.
• Stylish and Eco-Friendly: Sherpani is known for using sustainable and eco-friendly materials in their products, and this bag combines style with environmental consciousness.
• Organized Design: It offers well-thought-out compartments and pockets for organization.
• Adjustable Strap: The adjustable crossbody strap ensures a comfortable and secure fit.
• Compact and Lightweight: Designed for minimalists, it’s ideal for those who prefer carrying just the essentials.
• Limited Space: Similar to other compact crossbody bags, it may not be suitable for those needing to carry larger items or numerous belongings.
• Limited Color Options: The available color range may be limited compared to other brands.

The Sherpani Vale Anti-Theft Crossbody Purse is a secure and eco-friendly choice for environmentally-conscious individuals. Its anti-theft features and stylish design make it an attractive option, though it may not provide enough space for those with larger storage needs.

Small Crossbody Bags

13. madewell women’s the simple crossbody bag.

• Timeless Design: The Madewell Simple Crossbody Bag boasts a classic and minimalist design that complements various outfits, making it suitable for both casual and formal occasions.
• Quality Materials: Crafted with high-quality Italian leather, this bag not only looks great but also promises durability and longevity.
• Practical Size: The compact size is perfect for essentials like a wallet, phone, keys, and a few small accessories, making it great for a night out or a day in the city.
• Madewell Brand: Madewell is known for its commitment to quality and style.
• Higher Price: The use of premium materials and brand reputation can result in a higher price point.
• Limited Space: Due to its small size, it may not be suitable for those who need to carry larger items.

The Madewell Women’s The Simple Crossbody Bag is a timeless and stylish choice for individuals looking for a small, high-quality bag. Its classic design, premium materials, and adjustable strap offer both fashion and functionality. However, it may not accommodate those with larger storage needs or budget constraints.

14. Fossil Women’s Fiona Small Crossbody Bag

• Versatile Design: The Fossil Fiona Small Crossbody Bag combines a classic aesthetic with modern functionality, making it suitable for various occasions.
• Quality Materials: Crafted with high-quality leather, it promises durability and style.
• Compact and Practical: The small size is ideal for carrying essentials without unnecessary bulk.
• Brand Reputation: Fossil is known for its commitment to quality and design.
• Higher Price: Like other premium brands, Fossil products may come at a higher price point.
• Limited Space: It may not be suitable for those needing to carry larger items or numerous belongings.

The Fossil Women’s Fiona Small Crossbody Bag is a versatile and stylish choice for individuals seeking a compact bag with a classic touch. Its quality materials and brand reputation make it an attractive option, though it may not provide enough space for those with larger storage needs or budget constraints.

15. Michael Kors Jet Set Travel Small Logo Crossbody Bag

• Designer Appeal: The Michael Kors Jet Set Travel Crossbody Bag features the designer’s logo and style, making it an attractive choice for fashion-conscious individuals.
• Compact and Lightweight: The perfect size is ideal for essentials, and it won’t weigh you down during your day.
• Quality Materials: Crafted with high-quality materials, it offers both style and durability.
• Designer Price: The Michael Kors brand and designer appeal can result in a higher price tag.
• Limited Space: Due to its small size, it may not be suitable for those needing to carry larger items.

The Michael Kors Jet Set Travel Small Logo Crossbody Bag is a designer choice for those who prioritize fashion and style. Its great size and designer logo make it an attractive option for minimalists and fashion-conscious individuals. However, it may come with a higher price tag and limited space for larger items.

16. Sherpani Zoom Small Crossbody Purse

• Lightweight and Compact: Ideal for minimalists, this small crossbody purse is perfect for carrying just the essentials.
• Sustainable Materials: Sherpani is known for using sustainable and eco-friendly materials in their products, making it a choice for environmentally-conscious buyers.
• Adjustable Strap: The adjustable strap allows for a customized fit and comfortable wear.
• RFID Protection: Some versions of this bag may offer RFID protection, enhancing security.
• Limited Space: If you need to carry more than a few essentials, this bag’s small size may not be sufficient.
• Limited Color Options: The range of available colors may be limited compared to other brands and models.

The Sherpani Zoom Small Crossbody Purse is an excellent choice for minimalists and environmentally-conscious buyers. Its lightweight, sustainable materials, and stylish design make it a versatile option for various occasions. However, it may not be suitable for those needing more storage space or a wide range of color choices.

17. Baggallini Horizon Crossbody Bag

This bag is bigger, which means you can get more inside, and you can choose from several different colors and designs, with the red option being a desirable choice!

There are several pockets outside the bag, with secure zips inside. Anti-theft pockets are designed for your valuables, such as your keys, phone, ID card, etc.

The bag is made of fabric, making it easy to squash down, meaning it’s not bulky. The strap is adjustable, measuring 52″, so it won’t count anyone out regarding torso length. There is a coin purse included in the same design.

Reviews of these Bagallini travel bags are all very positive. In terms of a city break, or perhaps for your minimal carry-on suitcase for a short trip, this bag easily fits everything you need and keeps it all organized simultaneously.

Weight: 14.9oz

Strap Length: 52″, adjustable

Material: Nylon, waterproof

Anti-theft/security features: Anti-theft pockets inside the bag

Internal compartments: Yes

Why you should buy this crossbody bag: – Large, adjustable strap

Why you should keep looking for a new crossbody purse: – Not the most fashionable design, more about functionality

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What Is A Crossbody Bag?

There are many different types of bags around, but a crossbody bag is handy for when you’re out and about. The great thing about this bag is that it can also be used in everyday life, not just when you’re traipsing the globe.

You really need to know what this type of bag is before we go any further, though. And to answer that question, a crossbody bag is a usually smaller purse that goes across your body and has a long strap, with the bag sitting on your hip at one side.

These straps on a crossbody bag can usually be adjusted, so you can have it higher up your body or lower down, depending on your height and how comfortable you are wearing it.

What Are The Benefits Of Using Crossbody Bags For Travel?

Security is the main subject here because your bag is very unlikely to be snatched from your back or shoulder when it is sat on your hip and secured to your body by a long strap. Aside from this, your hands are free, so you don’t have to feel burdened when trying to explore a new place .

If you’re traveling with your hands free, that also means that you can carry a larger carry-on cabin bag, or pull your suitcase behind you, without feeling weighed down.

As you can see, many crossbody bag choices are on the market. Think  about your needs and budget, which will help you find the best crossbody bag for travel.

How To Choose The Perfect Crossbody Bag

Of course, you could just go out and grab any over-the-shoulder bag that looks good… but we suggest considering these factors before you buy one:

You need a crossbody travel purse that is lightweight. That way, it will feel like nothing when it is on your body empty, and you can put much more inside it as a result. A bag that feels like thin air isn’t going to be that secure because you won’t feel if someone is tugging on it, perhaps trying to open the zipper.

Strap Length

You need a bag with an adjustable strap, so you can move it however you feel comfortable, including if you are wearing a thick or thin coat or if you want it to sit higher on your hips for added security. Most of the best crossbody purses for travel do have this adjustable feature, but you need to think about it.

The waterproof material is always best. That way, you have a genuinely flexible option if you want to use it out and about, rather than just for when you’re traveling. Fabric bags are acceptable for summer use, but if you’re going to use them again, perhaps when it is raining, you might find that your belongings become a little soggy.

This is a bag you probably already have without realizing it! There is a huge range of crossbody bags on the market. For this reason, costs aren’t exceptionally high unless you want a serious brand name.

Anti-Theft/Security Features

Only the best crossbody bags for travel have advantageous features to deter thieves or make it very hard for someone to get into your bag without you realizing it. This includes a different shape to the bag, where it folds down and zips, hidden internal pockets, clips for keys, and anti-slash materials (yes, people use knives to cut bags off!)

Internal Compartments

Many cross-shoulder bags have internal compartments to organize your belongings and help keep your valuables ultra-safe. These can be on the outside or the inside, with the inside being naturally safer.

Got it all? Okay, now let’s look at the reviews of all crossbody bags for travel (aka best travel purses), and at the end, you’ll be set on deciding which one is for you.

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Backpack Vs Suitcase: Which is Right for My Trip to Europe?

Best Suitcases , FASHION , LUGGAGE , TRAVEL

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If you’re traveling carryon only to Europe, you might be wondering which type of travel bag you should bring along. Read on to see whether a backpack, wheeled suitcase or even a hybrid is best for your travel adventure!

Backpack or Suitcase: What’s the Best Luggage for Traveling to Europe ?

Table of contents.

When it comes to Europe , everything tends to be a little bit smaller. Overhead bins on flights to Europe are notoriously quite small, so you’ll want to keep those size restrictions in mind when choosing your luggage. 

You’re also likely to be trekking with your luggage through train and subway stations, across cobblestone streets, and up and down stairs. 

Where you’re going and what you’ll be doing is crucial in determining which luggage is best for you. If you’re planning to hike from one town in the Alps to the next, you probably won’t want to be pulling a rolling bag on top of steep hills. 

Or, if you have some layovers on your next trip to Paris , you may want to consider how you’ll feel waiting in long security lines and ticket counters with a very heavy pack on your back and having to take it on and off multiple times.

If you need more ideas on what luggage to choose for Europe, these articles might be helpful:  

• Best Carry-on Suitcases for Traveling Europe
• Best Under Seat Luggage
• Best International Carry On Luggage
• Hardside vs. Softside Luggage: Pros and Cons
• Best Checked Luggage 

Overall, the best carry-on luggage for Europe is versatile, comfortable, and able to carry all your essentials. Take a look at some pros and cons of different types of luggage below, and see which option might best suit your exciting European trip! 

Backpack for Europe

Osprey Fairpoint 55

What Are the Pros and Cons of a Backpack for Europe?

• Frees your hands – Keeps your hands free so you can open and read a map, take pictures, eat or drink, etc.
• Stability – Evenly distributes weight on your back and gives you steadiness.
• With you at all times – With it being strapped to your back, you have less of a chance of leaving it at the train station while you’re waiting for your ride.
• Outdoors – If you are planning on doing a lot of walking or hiking with your luggage, this is by far the best option.
• Weight – It can be very heavy, and if you’re standing for long periods of time, you can get tired more quickly. Although this is great for hiking, it may not be great for hours of travel at the airport while waiting in long security and ticket counter lines.
• Less accessibility – Harder to get in and out of when you’re on the go. You will have to find a place to stop and unzip your bag to get something out.
• Theft – With the size of these bags, at times it might be easier for a pick-pocket to unzip your bag without you being able to feel it.
• Shoulders – Although it frees your hands up, it takes up valuable shoulder space which you may use if you also have a purse or small camera bag. Adding a crossbody bag while you’re already carrying a backpack can add weight that doesn’t distribute itself evenly.

Readers voted on the best travel backpack for Europe . Here are their top picks:

Osprey Porter 46 Travel Backpack

Osprey Porter 46 Backpack Europe Carry On

The Osprey Porter 46 is great for travelers who want to travel carry-on only and stay super organized. This backpack features a ton of easy-to-access compartments that make packing a breeze, including a lockable laptop back panel, a top compartment for easy access to your toiletries, and even a pocket to store your travel documents!

The Porter 46 is built specifically to be carry-on compatible, and travelers report having no issues storing this in the cabin of their plane, even on flights to Europe! Many readers say it’s the best backpack for traveling Europe .

One reader shares, “I can access all of my creature comforts without opening up the main part of my bag. My Porter also has compression straps that keep the bag streamlined for storing under the seat in front of me. It’s much more than just a backpack!”

Gregory 45L Travel Backpack

Gregory 45L Maven Backpack for Traveling Europe

This Gregory Maven 45L Backpack for travel in Europe is a highly recommended pick! It’s seriously durable and spacious, yet only weighs 3.2 lbs. The fit of this backpack is outstanding, and users absolutely rave about how comfortable it is due to the suspension, lower back cradle, and breathable foam upper panel! 

It’s loaded with handy pockets and organizational features, plus it features a waterproof cover to keep your belongings safe, rain or shine! Available on Amazon and REI . 

A traveler says, “​​Really like the lightweight and comfortable fit of Gregory Maven packs. It’s streamlined but still holds a lot and fits well with minimal adjustment.”

F.A.R Convertible Backpack

F.A.R 45L Convertible Carry On Backpack for Europe Travel

The F.A.R 45L convertible backpack by Away is a simple and super functional backpack for traveling through Europe or anyone who wants to travel with one bag only . It looks and carries like a backpack, but packs like a suitcase, which travelers love! It’s spacious and can fit a good amount of clothing (especially with packing cubes), while still meeting carry-on restrictions. 

This versatile backpack has dual interior and exterior compression systems that help you pack more in and multiple pockets systems that securely stash valuables and keep them within reach. Made to work for long-distance travel and weighs a mere 3.32 lbs, convert the removable padded straps into a backpack or duffle anytime, and use the chest strap when in backpack mode for a more supported carry.

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Europe Backpack

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L makes the perfect travel backpack for Europe. It’s lightweight, at just over 3 lbs, and has so many practical features! It’s spacious, with plenty of compartments, and a laptop sleeve. The pack also has foam padding, carabiner lash loops, and tuck-away straps with 4 reinforced grab handles. Also includes a rain cover and a removable waist belt!

Users love how comfortable this bag is. The women-specific suspension and the adjustable shoulder straps are padded and breathable to make things more comfortable! Available at REI , Backcountry , and Amazon . 

One user says, “Bought this backpack for a Europe trip and it’s been great so far. It sits nicely on my back and hips and is very comfortable. It’s amazing the amount of stuff you can get there when you pack right!”

Arc’teryx Aerios 45L Backpack

Arc’teryx Aerios 45L Backpack for Traveling in Europe

The Arc’teryx Aerios 45L is a sleek and cool-looking Europe travel backpack that’s also super practical and makes a great carry on. It’s spacious, and can fit so much inside! This pack is amazing for any type of European travel, whether it’s exploring an urban city or hiking through the countryside!  

The material is durable and protective, and users report that it feels super snug and comfortable to wear, even after long periods of time. It’s also lightweight! 

One traveler says, “Very comfortable to wear, even with a heavy load. The back opens very easily and I like the pockets at the hip and the sides!” No wonder adventurers feel Arc’teryx makes the best backpack to travel Europe !

Discover the best ultralight backpacks and add one to your shopping list!

Spinner Luggage for Europe

  TravelPro Maxlite 5 Softside Suitcase

What Are the Pros and Cons of Spinner Luggage for Europe?

• Lightweight – You can pull your bag with ease when it’s on rollers without much effort.
• Accessibility – You can get things in and out of it very quickly. For example, when you’re going through security, you can pop it up on the belt, unzip the top, and pull out your toiletries within seconds.
• Organization – With a well-structured rectangle shape, you can keep your packing cubes nice and orderly and they’ll keep their shape well. 
• Multiple bags – You can carry a shoulder bag on your shoulder, or even put it on top of your suitcase, thus freeing your back and shoulders from any weight.
• Public transportation – Steps are hard with a suitcase. If you’re going on the subway or bus, you’ll have to be able to pick up your bag and carry it with you. So, although it’s light when you’re rolling it, it can get heavy when you have to carry it up flights of stairs.
• Less hands – With only one hand, it can be problematic to carry a cup of coffee and then open a door.
• Snagging – Let’s face it; we’ve all had someone roll their bag over our feet while they’re trying to get it through the airplane aisles. It can be hard to navigate the rolling bag through the tight spaces of Europe and over uneven terrain like cobblestone streets.
• Less control – If you stop rolling it to do something, you could easily forget it. There’s also the possibility of it rolling away from you (unlike a purse or backpack which is strapped to you).

Here is the most popular spinner luggage for traveling to Europe that our readers swear by:

Delsey Paris Helium Aero Hardside

Delsey Paris Helium Aero 19” 4-Wheel Spinner for Europe

The Delsey Helium Aero 19” will have you gliding down any terrain with ease! The spinner wheels make for a smooth ride, and it’s very lightweight yet spacious. It can also expand up to 2” for extra packing space, and the zippers have an easy, one-button locking system. 

The durable, scratch-resistant cover will ensure it looks just as good off the plane as it did getting on! And it weighs a fairly light 8.4 lbs!

One reader who has this suitcase says, “We have the Delsey Helium Aero and love it. It seems to be indestructible, carries a ridiculous amount, and the compression zipper setup is fantastic. I like that each side is packed independently.”

Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Spinner Luggage

Samsonite Omni 20” Spinner Suitcase for European Travel

Many readers report that the Samsonite’s Omni 20” suitcase has been perfect for their travels to Europe. It has 360-degree spinner wheels and only weighs 6.8 lbs. The scratch-resistant polycarbonate shell will hold up to all the rigors of travel, and users rave about the security of the TSA zipper locks! 

One traveler reports, “ Suitcase held up perfectly over four 4-hour flights over the holidays, on two of which it actually had to be checked because the flight was very full. Not a single scratch or dent, no signs of wear, and it was easy to travel with—rolled smoothly and easily and has a sturdy handle.”

Travelpro Platinum Elite 19” Spinner Luggage

Travelpro Platinum Elite 19” Expandable Spinner Europe Suitcase

The  Platinum Elite 19” Suitcase has some incredible features, and it definitely doesn’t sacrifice on style, either! This sleek and sophisticated beauty rolls effortlessly, and the leather top and side handles allow for easy carrying. The external USB port is very handy, and readers say the interior organization is a dream! 

One reader shares, “ I was planning 12 days in Italy and wanted to do it with one carryon. I did some research and this bag looked like it might be the answer. What a great decision on my part! You can pack a lot in it and it has outside pockets for the stuff you need to access quickly. It’s the perfect size to fit in and out of various overhead compartments. Spinners are great. The handles are amazing. I highly recommend it.”

Read this Travelpro Maxlite 5 review to find out if this popular brand makes the cut!

Samsonite Winfield 2 20” Hardside Luggage

Samsonite Winfield 2 20” Hardside Luggage for Europe Travel

TFG readers love Samsonite suitcases, and the Winfield 2 20’ is a top pick, especially for international travel! This gem is light, weighing just over 6.5 lbs, and readers applaud its durability and stability, even over years of wear and tear! 

The interior divider zips fully so nothing will fall out when you open it, and the outer zippers feature TSA locks for safety. 

A traveler says, “Made it from US to Italy, over many cobblestones, on trains, planes, taxis, walking through cities, bumpy sidewalks/roads. Held up nicely. It fits perfectly in the carryon above head storage on both domestic and international flights. And it fits in the overhead storage compartments of the Italian trains too.” 

Rockland Pasadena Spinner Luggage

Rockland Pasadena 20” Softside Carryon for Europe

This Rockland Pasadena 20” is a solid economical option and has everything you could want in a carryon! The sturdy handle and wheels make it easy to maneuver, and at 7 lbs . it’s really easy to lift and carry. 

It’s quite packable for its size, and the handy exterior pockets are a bonus! This cutie will fit in almost any overhead compartment. A traveler agrees, “Survived three weeks across all the cobblestones in Spain , Italy , France , and Greece . Perfect size for the small European airlines to take as carryon.” It comes in a variety of colors, so pick your favorite!

Discover the best luggage brands for travel and why they love them!

Rolling Luggage for Europe

High Sierra Freewheel Wheeled Backpack

What Are the Pros and Cons of Hybrid Luggage for Europe?

• Versatility – You’ll have the option of carrying your bag on your back when there’s uneven terrain or when you need your hands free, and then have the option to give your back a rest and roll it along whenever you need to.  
• Faster travel – With two carrying options, you can choose which is best at any given time to zip through an airport or trek through crowded streets and get to where you’re going faster! 
• Durability – While there are only two wheels, they’re actually much more durable because they don’t allow for as much movement as spinner wheels so they can handle steps and bumpy roads with no issues. Plus, there’s no danger of it rolling away like spinner suitcases can! 
• Packability – You can pack and access your belongings much easier with a rolling bag because the zippers often open more like a suitcase. They’re often much easier to live out of than a backpack. 
• Not as comfortable – Rolling bags tend to be a lot less comfortable than your standard backpack. The hard base and wheels can hurt your back after a while, whereas travel backpacks have an ergonomic fit. 
• Maneuverability – Rolling bags have two wheels and need to be pulled at a 45-degree angle, so there’s less maneuverability, and it can put a strain on your wrist at times.  
• Heavier – Rolling bags tend to be a few pounds heavier than travel backpacks with the added wheels, hard frame, and other features. 
• Less capacity – The wheels and straps take away some of the packing capacity, so they’re often less roomy than standard backpacks or suitcases. 

Here are some of the best wheeled backpack for Europe travel options:  

Osprey Farpoint 65L Wheeled Luggage

Osprey Farpoint 65 L 27.5″ Wheeled Backpack Luggage for Europe

The Osprey Farpoint 27.5” Luggage is a top choice for a hybrid suitcase if you’re looking for a little luxury and some wheels in your pack! It has plenty of space for packing and weighs only 6.174 lbs. 

The Farpoint offers great organizational features: a large front-panel opening makes quick and easy work out of packing and unpacking, while internal compression makes sure everything stays in place until you reach paradise.

Compatible with the Farpoint/Fairview Travel Daypack or Daylite for streamlined outings that call for your laptop and a few other essentials.

An intrepid user says, “Amazing bag, super easy to get around on cobblestone streets, curbs, boat ramps, and huge crowded airports, all thanks to the wheels.”

Looking for an alternative luggage option that still has wheels? Here are our readers’ picks for lightweight rolling duffel bags !

Osprey Fairview 65 Women’s Wheeled Luggage

Osprey Fairview 65 Wheeled Luggage for Multi-Days in Europe

The Osprey Fairview 65 is a slightly larger option that will have you covered for both short and long European getaways! The front panel opening makes it super easy to pack, just like a suitcase, and the sturdy wheels are smooth and can handle rough terrain. 

Users appreciate the lightweight suspension, harness, and hip belt that make carrying this bag feel stable and comfortable. It features interior, zippered pockets for organization, and is lightweight at 6.2 lbs! 

An owner of this bag shares, “I’ve owned a lot of Osprey bags and have always been a big fan. This bag is perfect for traveling. Not too big, but not too small. It’s also very lightweight without compromising the quality.”

Osprey Transporter 4 Wheel Hybrid Carry On

Osprey Transporter 22” Hybrid Carry On Luggage for Europe

The Osprey Transporter 22” is a globally accepted carry on size, so it’s a perfect pick for European travels, and TFG readers love it! This bag is a hybrid between a softside and hardside suitcase, so it has the protection and durability of a hardshell, with the wiggle room and single opening of a softside! 

It weighs just 6.5 lbs, and readers report that it’s super packable, easy to maneuver, and durable. One user shares, “Perfect carryon bag. The case is very light, yet stable, and easy to load in overhead bins, even in smaller regional jets. It’s very easy to maneuver in airplane aisles, and crowded airports, especially when dashing for a connecting flight, and sturdy enough to serve as a footstool during long lay-overs.” 

Here are the most popular Europe travel bag styles according to our readers along with their tried and tested reviews!

Best Luggage for Traveling to Europe Comparison Chart

Apple AirTags

Luggage Tags

A super practical addition to your new suitcase is a luggage tag! TFG readers have been raving about luggage tags, and highly recommend them for every trip. 

Luggage tags are handy little trackers that you attach to your belongings and then track through an app on your phone. The most popular option in the TFG community is Apple Airtags , which hooks up to the Find My iPhone app so you can see where your item is in real time. Readers say they’ve been lifesavers in finding lost luggage in an airport! 

For non-iPhone users, readers recommend the Samsung Galaxy SmartTag and the TilePro , which are compatible with Android devices, and the TilePro also works for iOS. 

Luggage tags are not only handy for your luggage but for your purse, keys, wallet, or even your parked car. You can enjoy your vacation with the utmost peace of mind!

What kind of bag is your favorite? Are you a die-hard suitcase or rolling bag fan? Or do you only bring a backpack for Europe ?

For more ideas on suitcases and backpacks, please read:

• Suitcase 101: How to Choose the Right Travel Luggage
• Suitcase Recommendations: Travel Experts Reveal Top Luggage Brands  
• Experts Reveal the Best Carry-on Suitcases for Traveling Europe  
• Best Lightweight Luggage Under 5lb: Avoid Overweight Baggage Fees   

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19 comments.

We just ordered the Osprey backpack for upcoming trip to Italy and we plan to do three day capsule wardrobe that we will reuse for the entire 10 days that were there. I will come back and let you know how it fared!

Can’t wait to hear how it goes, have a brilliant time on your travels!

Thank you for all of these suggestions! Still trying to decide if backpack or rolling bag is right for me. This informs some of my questions.

I love my Cotopaxi Allpa backpack.

You hit the nail on head regarding pros and cons. Depending on destination, length of time and activity, I switch between My Osprey 30L, my Cotopaxi Allpa 35L, and a super light G4Free 40L Lightweight Packable Hiking Backpack. For my latest 4 week trip I am taking a Travelpro Maxlite roller bag. They are all functional and I love them all! I am 58, so I have to be careful about weight in the backpacks. It is uncomfortable to carry a heavy backpack, but you can’t beat the hands free feature.

We have decided to pack in backpacks since we will be traveling to a lot of different places. We are planning on checking them as luggage. I don’t know what to carry on to the plane though. It needs to be big enough for my laptop, but it can’t be a backpack since that’s what I’ll be carrying on my back!? Any suggestions for what to use?

Hi Karin, here are some factors to consider when choosing the right personal item for your travels: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/carry-on-personal-item/

Here are some popular options for totes that our readers recommended as being great for travel: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/travel-bags-with-trolley-sleeve/

Or since you’ll be checking your backpacks, would you consider a personal item with wheels, here are our readers go-to options: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/best-under-seat-luggage/

I would also highly recommend that you join our TFG facebook group and post your question there: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelfashiongirls/ It’s a fabulous community of helpful female travelers that love to share their travel advice and recommendations.

Hope this helps. Have the most amazing time on your travels!

Thank you for this article! It summerized things so well and helped my husband (yes ladies, men read these blogs too and thank goodness they do!) pick a new carryon (he went with the TravelPro). Thanks as always, TFG!

This was very informative. I’m going to give a backpack a try!

I am going to Italy in May 2023 and have been pouring over all articles related to travel. I think I’m leaning towards a backpack so I can have my hands available to help my mother.

I enjoy Osprey backpacks as carry on bags. They are spacious and smartly designed.

I have to have luggage. Mad skills to carry just a backpack!

I just returned from 3 weeks in the UK and, thanks to TFG, I used a backpack for the first time for my entire trip. It worked so well getting off and on trains efficiently! I used Ebags Motherload and was super happy with it! All these other backpacks look great too. 🙂

I love the dual version like the Osprey Meridian Wheeled Luggage, I like options a don’t like to commit to one style.

It’s nice to have options 🙂

I love the Eagle Creek Lync rolling backpacks. They have removable frames and backpack straps, so you can use them as rolling luggage or as a backpack.

Good choice Heather!

I prefer backpacks but I use the Von Baer Libert Women’s Leather Backpack. I love the feel of the genuine leather as well as the space it provides.

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13 Best Purses For Traveling In Europe

• Travel Gear
• 13 Best Purses For Traveling…

A travel purse can either make or break your trip to Europe. Since you’re going to spend a lot of time being outside, you’re going to need a reliable purse. The best purse for traveling in Europe should be able to hold fashion without compromising its function. Choosing the wrong bag for traveling in Europe can really result in an awful travel experience. From sore shoulders from lugging it around the whole day, not having the right size to pack all your things, to even worst—having them stolen.

Whether you’re roaming around an ancient neighborhood or having a refreshing experience in small towns in Europe , you’ll need the best handbag for traveling in Europe. If you need a larger purse, consider getting the best bags for traveling in Europe instead.

How to Choose the Best Purse for Traveling in Europe

Before picking up the best cross body bag for travel in Europe, there are several things you should consider. While needs may vary according to each individual, your bag should at least have these features below. This is to ensure you’ll have a safe and sound trip across the pond.

Security Features

The best purse for traveling in Europe usually features some kind of security tech. One of the most popular securities found in travel purses is the Radio-Frequency Identification or RFID. Usually, you can find it featured in the bag’s pocket. It’s where you can safely store your credit card since RFID is meant to protect your identity from being stolen. Aside from RFID, an advanced and locked zipper is also common. You’ll easily notice anyone trying to unzip your bag.

Size and Compartments

While our preference of a bag size can vary, your purse should be able to hold your most valuable items. Items you should never leave at the hotel include passport/ID, hotel keys, and your wallet or credit cards. All things considered, a travel purse with a compact size should be your most favorable option. Apart from functionality, a compact size purse tends to be lightweight and easier to carry. Another plus point if it has enough compartments to make your items easier to organize.

It’s no brainer that your travel purse should be comfortable at all times. Especially if you’re going to spend most of your time on foot, traveling from one place to another. The best cross body bag for travel in Europe should hang comfortably over your shoulder. You don’t want to end up with strain after a long day of traveling.

What kind of purse is the best for travel?

Simply put, the best purse for traveling in Europe should be two things: safe and comfortable. With the many available choices, there’s something for everyone today from the market. But not all of them cover two of the most important features in a travel purse. If you find the right bag that’s safe and comfortable, you should look for no more. Especially if it comes with a friendly price tag!

Should you carry a backpack in Europe?

Backpacks are generally suitable for traveling in Europe. They’re easy to maneuver in most places; whether you’re taking the stair to your hostel or having a trip on a train. Backpacks are also roomy enough to fit 1 – 2 weeks of clothing. So yeah, if you’re planning to carry your backpack on your next trip to Europe, you’ll be good to go.

Are Kipling bags good for travel?

Kipling is popular for its backpacks and sling bags. And to this day, it’s many people’s favorite because of its very lightweight material, making it very suitable as a travel bag. Kipling backpacks, bags, and luggage also offer fun colors and designs. It’s more than enough to satisfy everyone’s tastes and preferences. Spending your money on a Kipling travel bag is worth every penny. And it should last as it’s made durable.

LoZoDo Women Satchel Handbag

With a great number of reviews online, LoZoDo Women Satchel Handbag passes the mark as the best handbag for traveling in Europe. The first thing that attracts buyers is the super friendly price tag. For a handbag with decent leather quality, it costs less than 30 USD.

Of course, it’s not the only reason why it’s the best purse for traveling in Europe. People are praising how stylish it looks and it does the job well. The storage is roomy enough to store your traveling essentials from passport to sunscreen and a bottle of water. Not to mention how you can style it both as a handbag and shoulder bag. People are excited about how this affordable bag is exceeding their expectations. It makes a great gift idea as well! Truly the best purse for traveling in Europe.

What We Love

Exceeding expectations and provides beyond its low price point.

• Very affordable
• Perfect for traveling
• Good quality
• Durability issues

Baggallini Everyday Traveler Bag

Speaking of the best purse for traveling in Europe, there are many reasons why Baggalini bags are the cult classic. And it’s mainly because they have everything people look for in a traveling purse: from reasonable price tag, sturdy and well-made design, to great choice of models and colors. Baggalini bags gain many fans online because of these particular reasons. And their latest Everyday Traveler Bag is no exception.

The new and improved Everyday Bag makes up for its big sisters’ flaws. And people are very satisfied with the improvement. You’ll notice how the current version is equipped with a built-in wallet inside. With RFID pockets and two main compartments, this bag holds all your traveling essentials in one. Most importantly, it gives you the peace of mind you deserve as you’re having leisure.

Anything you need in the best cross body bag for travel in Europe!

• Equipped with RFID
• Sturdy design
• Convenient built-in wallet
• Zippered compartments
• No cons found so far

Zocilor Women’s Multipurpose Purse Backpack

For the most part, people love Zocilor Women’s Multipurpose Purse Backpack for its look and function. The backpack holds spacious storage and is stylish enough without having to break the bank. As the name suggests, the backpack is convertible into a shoulder bag. The colorful single strap is a great finishing touch to its overall design. Providing you extended comfort as you carry it throughout the old European neighborhood.

Available in several charming colors, the bag is simply cute. The company claims that it’s made of high-quality PU leather, vegan leather, as well as a poly fabric lining. The material is also water-repellant and it provides enough room if you’re planning for a long day trip in Europe. For all these reasons, it’s hard not to mention it as the best purse for traveling in Europe.

Great design with charming style and very functional.

• Great size; not too big or too small
• Multiple ways to carry
• Made of sturdy material
• The straps are too bulky
• It looks expensive, may attract robbers

Kenneth Cole Reaction Runway Call Nylon

Planning a business trip to Europe soon? Kenneth Cole Reaction Runway Call Nylon is the perfect bag for you. What makes it the best handbag for traveling in Europe is particularly because there aren’t many bags like it. Most traveling bags are made casual and are not meant for business travel. And your daily work purse may also not be the best option if you’re taking it for travel. People are happy with Reaction Runway Call Nylon because it’s ideal for both situations.

The bag size fits under most airplane seats, making it very easy for storing. You can put most of your traveling and working essentials in the bag, including your laptop. Have we mentioned that it’s a rolling laptop bag? Yep, it’s equipped with a handle and you can drag it around for easier maneuvering.

You can find three compartments built in the bag, making it easier for you to organize each of your items. Some of the pockets are also equipped with an RFID security system, another plus for a traveling bag.

A highly functional handbag for when you need to do a business trip to Europe.

• Side pocket for water bottle
• Strong handle
• The compartments keep your things organized
• Not suitable for traveling heavy

Estalon Leather Crossbody Bag

If you’re more of a practical person, Estalon Leather Crossbody Bag is the right choice for your trip to Europe. It’s made of great quality leather and provides enough room to carry all your traveling essentials. The bag has the typical leather smell right out of the box but it’s only temporary and you’ll be able to comfortably use it.

As you can see from the picture, it has that cool rustic design. But most people suggest that the bag needs a little breaking in before finally looking as pictured. It comes with a great selection of colors and you can get your hands on it just for 40 USD. All things considered, it’s the best cross body bag for travel in Europe!

A stylish and functional leather crossbody bag.

• Great leather quality
• Perfect space for your traveling essentials
• Lightweight and comfortable
• Some users reported durability issues

MUNDI Jacqui Vegan Leather Crossbody Purse

If you’re a practical person and love to keep your traveling essentials as few as possible, this is the right purse for you. People love Mundi Jacqui Vegan Leather Crossbody Purse for many reasons. You’ll love how it’s convertible into a wallet as the shoulder and wrist strap are detachable. The straps are of great quality and thick, providing more comfort as you use the purse for long hours.

You can put 6 cards on the slots and remove them in a breeze. The cell phone pouch holds most types of phones, including phones with big screens. Your cards and passport will be protected as the bag also features an RFID security system. For what it’s worth, these reasons are why it’s the best cross body bag for travel in Europe.

Everything you need in a traveling crossbody bag is covered in this compact purse.

• Well-made and thick strap.
• Also equipped with a wrist strap

Michael Kors Jet Set Travel

Get yourself this charming crossbody bag from Michael Kors. The Jet Set Travel Messenger Bag is the best cross body bag for travel in Europe not only because of its known quality. It makes a practical traveling purse when you’re out spending the day sightseeing or hopping from one site to another.

The Jet Set Travel bag comes in the perfect size, it’s not too big or too small. Just the right size to store your most valuable items along with a pair of sunglasses and a compact umbrella. And even with those items inside, you can still fit a thin cardigan since the bag still has enough room.

A great traveling crossbody bag that worth every penny.

• Outside phone pocket equipped with magnetic clasp
• Perfect size for travel
• A great deal considering it’s a designer brand
• Well-made and very sturdy
• It’s a popular designer brand, it may attract robbers

MyFriday Small Crossbody Phone Bag

Never bring anything other than your phone, passport, and credit card during a day trip in Europe? This compact crossbody bag is made for you. With a waterproof design, chic choices of colors, and plenty of slots for cards, MyFriday Small Crossbody Phone Bag makes the best cross body bag for travel in Europe.

The good things don’t stop there. It comes with two different lengths of an adjustable strap which you can use depending on your mood. The biggest compartment fits Samsung Galaxy Note, which basically means most phones will fit into the purse. With a wide range of choices of colors, there’s something for everyone.

It’s small but mighty!

• Super lightweight
• Enough compartments
• Compact design
• Comes with both adjustable long and short strap choices
• Poor quality zippers

Lily Queen Women Canvas Tote Handbag

For less than 30 USD, Lily Queen Women Canvas Tote Handbag makes the best handbag for traveling in Europe. First of all, the bag is lightweight and comes in several cute choices of colors. It seems well-made from the look of its quality stitches and canvas material. The bag is also versatile enough, you can carry it on your shoulder or use the longer strap as a cross body bag.

Most tote bags are built with an open compartment. But Lily Queen Women Canvas Tote Handbag has a zippered compartment for safer storage. The bag stretches to 10” deep and this can be both a pro and cons. On a brighter note, you will definitely notice if someone tries to unzip your bag and reach inside. It is both safe and comfortable, and that’s why it’s the best purse for traveling in Europe.

Well-made, very stylish, and more than enough to carry your traveling essentials.

• Well-made and sturdy
• Provides wide straps for better weight distribution
• Zippered main compartment
• Available in several fun colors
• Built of quality stitching and quality canvas
• Some users mentioned a strong chemical smell

Michael Kors XS Carry All Jet Set Travel

Many people prefer designer bags for the very obvious reasons: their top-notch quality. And most of the time, it’s a great bang for the buck. Michael Kors XS Carry All Jet Set Travel is no exception, the quality precedes its popularity.

As the best handbag for traveling in Europe, XS Carry All Jet Set Travel comes in a perfect size. It’s well-made, lightweight, and makes a great gift idea as well! The most fun part is that you’ll get a longer strap, so you can use it both as a handbag and a crossbody bag. With seven choices of charming colors, you can definitely add a touch of personality as you travel.

Small and great handbag with fun choices of colors. Perfect for traveling and comes with a very reasonable price tag.

• Lightweight
• Comes with a crossbody strap
• Perfect size for a travel purse
• Not the safest product to stroll around with

LOVEVOOK Tote Satchel Hobo Set

With so many amazing and chic choices of colors, Lovevook Tote Satchel Hobo Set makes the best purse for traveling in Europe. And that’s because it doesn’t compromise on its function. For less than 50 USD, you can get a set of three bags: a handbag, a small sling bag, and a slim pouch. Each is great on its own and you can either take the shoulder bag or slim pouch for when you’re traveling in Europe.

People are praising its high-quality material, which is on par with most high-end handbags. Get ready to get compliments as you use the bags! Join a large number of fans of this bag and get yourself the best purse for traveling in Europe.

A set of three includes a handbag, a cute sling bag, and a slim pouch. All is great on its own.

• Great choices of colors
• True to display
• The purse holds its shape
• Looks expensive, may attract robbers

Baggallini Slim Hobo Bag

Another best purse for traveling in Europe from Baggalini, the Slim Hobo Bag should definitely be your next travel companion. Your first impression may be about how the bag looks compact and decent. You may know that the brand is notably popular online for its simple yet highly functional bags. And the Slim Hobo Bag is included in everyone’s favorites.

The bag is perfect for anyone who loves to keep their things organized. You’ll find several zippered pockets both inside and outside of the bag. The included coin purse is RFID protected, it’s the perfect place to keep your credit cards and passports. On top of all these features, the bag is also lightweight and water-resistant.

The price is rather inexpensive compared to other Baggallini bags. But it doesn’t compromise on the quality nonetheless.

• Durable & water-resistant
• One pocket is RFID-protected
• Roomy main compartment
• Very helpful to keep your items organized
• Issues with the strap

Travelon Anti-Theft Cross Body Bucket Bag

So, what does it take to be at the best of the best purse for traveling in Europe? It needs to be able to cover all three things a traveling purse should have. As the name suggests, Travelon Anti-Theft Cross Body Bucket Bag features a sufficient security system with its RFID-covered card slots. Carrying the things you only need while traveling in Europe is highly recommended. Aside from its comfort issue, it’s mainly to minimize the risk if the worst-case scenario happens.

It brings us to the second element, which is size and compartments. Overall, the Body Bucket Bag comes in a perfect size for travel. Wait… scratch that, it IS made for travel. Keeping that in mind, the manufacturer did a great job in designing the bag. It holds your traveling essentials and more, you can even put water bottles on the sides of this bag!

When it comes to comfort, you don’t have to worry about having a sore shoulder after a long day. The strap decent enough to hold weight without having to hurt you. All these features are all in one bag that costs less than 50 USD. Look no more, we’ve got the winner here.

Everything you need in the best purse for traveling in Europe is covered in this bag.

• Surprisingly very roomy
• Comfortable to use for long hours
• Water-resistant material
• Easy to clean
• Uncomfortable shoulder padding

Author:  Emma Landa

I'm a traveler with a thirst for adventure and a passion for style. From the runways of Paris to the boutiques of Milan, I've traveled the world in search of the most glamorous and exclusive fashion experiences. I love nothing more than indulging in the latest designer collections and discovering hidden gems in the world of fashion. I've explored the streets of Tokyo, discovering unique and avant-garde styles that are pushing the boundaries of fashion. And in New York, I've attended the most exclusive fashion shows, rubbing shoulders with the industry's elite. But fashion isn't the only thing that I indulge in. I've also stayed in some of the most luxurious hotels and properties around the world. From the stunning resorts in Bali to the opulent villas in Tuscany, I know how to travel in style and comfort. Sharing my experiences and insights with others is something that I'm passionate about. Through my social media channels, I offer a glimpse into the world of luxury fashion and travel, inspiring others to explore the world of high-end fashion and indulge in the finer things in life. So, come along with me on my journey and let me show you the world of luxury fashion and travel like you've never seen it before!

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What is The Best Travel Backpack for Europe?

Europe has an incredibly rich history. This history means cobbled streets! So leave that clattering suitcase behind, you need the best travel backpack.

When you’re travelling around Europe, you need a sturdy bag to carry your life with you. But as I soon discovered after living in both Switzerland and London, the picturesque cobbled streets do not go well with wheeled suitcases. Backpacks are a much better and more practical idea. If you’re looking for the best travel backpack for Europe, you’re in the right place. Check out my guide to the best ones available, right now.

So how should you choose your travel backpack?

When you’re choosing a travel backpack, first of all, you need to consider size. Aim for something in between 30-40L, that tends to be the limit for carry-on luggage (even on those awful airlines ). This will save time and you won’t have to hang around at the baggage carousel or risk losing your checked-in bags. At the same time, it needs to be comfortable enough to carry around all day capable of carrying 3-4 days of clothes (check out my packing tips below to help with that!).

You can also visit our post here for some Travel Hacks .

Which sort of backpack should you go for?

Don’t even consider getting one of those unwieldy camping backpacks, with more straps than a spacesuit. You need to look for a sleek travel backpack that is zipped open in the same way as a suitcase, making it easy to access everything and to pack. This comes in really handy when moving frequently. Another important feature to look for is a bag that is waterproof – the last thing you want is to end up with soggy clothes or a ruined laptop if you’re caught out in a rainstorm. Although it is possible to get rain covers, buying a backpack which is waterproof is a more reliable solution.

“Water-resistant, Leightweight, Multiple compartments, Contoured/padded back, Padded shoulder straps, Front loading”

On that, you’ll want a backpack with a laptop slot/holder if you’re going to be working while you’re travelling. I can speak from experience when I say that it’s great to know that your laptop is held securely when it’s the key to being able to continue working remotely, wherever you may be. You don’t want to miss out on an important Skype client meeting because your laptop’s been damaged. This space is also useful for keeping any paperwork you’ll need to take with you, plus Ipads, tablets and magazines.

Another thing to consider is the weight of the backpack alone – you’ll want a light bag as you don’t need extra weight before you even load up your kit. And check that the bag has comfy shoulder straps, with padding if you prefer for added comfort. You’ll want to double check that it adjusts correctly to your body shape too – this is particularly important if you’re petite. If the straps won’t adjust tight enough to hold your backpack nice and high on your back, it’ll drag and could cause you unwanted back and neck pain. As you can see, it’s better to try the bag on in store rather than buying online because you just don’t know if the fit will suit you. (But by all means, buy online once you know which backpack you want – especially if you see a good deal!)

You can also check out our full article on Things To Do In Grindelwald Switzerland here.

Some tips on how to pack your backpack

If you’re going backpacking you’re going to have to adopt a minimalist lifestyle. Here’s one of my top tips – however much you’d been planning on taking, you’ll need to halve that amount! Seriously, it will save you time and stress. You’ll be able to get into quick and easy packing habits, it’s easier to keep track of your belongings as you move from place to place, and you won’t have to go out and buy extra luggage to fit all your souvenirs and trinkets that you’ve collected while you’re away. You want to have space to take home some mementoes of your trip, don’t you? So when you’re preparing to go backpacking, you’ll have to travel light.

Here are my most effective travel packing secrets, which I’m happy to share with you to make sure your packing goes smoothly:

• Take a microfiber travel towel – they are light and they pack up so much smaller than a normal towel, but still work just as well
• If you’re in doubt about something, leave it. You most likely won’t use it, and if you do most things can be picked up abroad anyway
• Leave at least a quarter of your bag empty, for souvenirs, gifts and goodies from your travels
• Consider the climate of your destination, and take clothes you can layer
• Create a capsule wardrobe of items that can all be easily interchanged
• Grab two or three compression packing cubes – they’ll save you space and make it easy to stay organised when you know where everything is.

Now onto my rundown of the best travel backpacks out there for your backpacking trip around Europe:

The 5 Best Backpacks for Travel

Lifeasy travel backpack 35l.

Check Amazon US/UK Price

• Small enough to take on flights as a carry on bag – meets all hand luggage requirements
• The built-in USB charging post is really handy, allowing you to charge your phone/Ipad on the go
• This bag is extremely comfy, with adjustable padded waist and shoulder straps. The shoulder straps also have breathable mesh which helps you stay cool in warmer weather
• Extendable features, allowing it to transform from a small compact bag with 15cm depth to up to 47cm depth when fully extended.
• Durable, great quality material which will last for years and stand up to heavy-duty use
• Enough padding to protect your electronics
• A great price for such a good quality bag
• Useful pockets so that everything has its place and is easy to find
• On the smaller side at 20L, rising to 35L when expanded – you might struggle to fit in all your essentials
• The USB extension cable is lower quality than you’d expect
• Might be better suited for shorter trips than longer backpacking adventures

Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Backpack – 40 L

• This bag looks really sleek and stylish
• Your electronics will stay safe and protected, with a specially designed laptop sleeve in a lockable compartment
• There’s a choice of colors – you can go for Classic Black or make your bag stand out by opting for Volcanic Red or Caribbean Blue
• The two internal compression straps keep everything held tightly in place and the bag is strong enough to hold up to 40 pounds of weight
• This backpack’s been constructed to transfer weight onto the hip strap which is great if you’re going to be doing a lot of walking or standing around in airports.
• Both the shoulder and hip straps have padding which brings additional comfort
• Sturdy fabric and zippers will stand up to a lot of use
• For longer backpacking trips of more than a couple of weeks you might find the storage space restrictive and want to size up to the Osprey Farpoint 70.
• The Osprey Farpoint 40 comes with a larger price tag at over 100 dollars, so not a great option if you’re working to a tight budget.
• This bag has fewer pockets and compartments than some of the other backpacks on the list, making it harder to organise and keep track of your stuff

Minaal Carry-on 2.0 – 35 L

• The best looking backpack (in this class) on the market. Comes in both grey or black.
• The laptop suspension system ensures that even if you drop your bags upon arriving home after a long flight, your laptop is safe and secure.
• Many internal pockets to arrange all of your essentials, even hidden pockets to keep cash and other valuables safe.
• This backpack converts easily and quickly into a duffel bag.
• Can fit a lot in it. Despite “officially” coming in at 35 L it can hold a lot more in it that you’d imagine.
• It has a rainfly included underneath, to give you full confidence, even in a torrential downpour.
• Comfortable for long periods of time.
• The makeup of the nylon exterior means it attracts dirt fairly easily. A vast improvement over the 1.0 version but you need to wipe it ot keep it clean.
• The water bottle carrier doesn’t really work if you have a bottle that isn’t the exact right size.
• Pack compression straps often get in the way of zipping and unzipping.
• The cost. This backpack comes in at the most expensive of the bunch.

AmazonBasics Carry-On Travel Backpack

• If you like pockets, the AmazonBasics Backpack is a great choice for you. There are two outer zippered pockets for your passport, travel liquids etc, and then an internal ‘briefcase style’ compartment where you can store your keys, pens, paperwork and small items.
• This backpack has a laptop sleeve which will hold any size of laptop safely in place
• The hip strap and sternum strap offer extra support when carrying, dividing the weight across the body, and if you’re not using them you can tuck them neatly away
• The shoulder straps have a comfortable amount of padding, and there’s padding along the length of the back of the bag, giving you increased comfort when carrying the bag for longer periods
• The AmazonBasics backpack comes in at an affordable price, the most cost efficient of the bunch.
• The main compartment has very little structure to it – when you open the zip, the sides flop down meaning that you can’t use it to store your belongings once you’ve arrived at your destination
• Depending on your build, the shoulder strap connectors might dig into your lower back
• This backpack seems to be designed with taller people in mind – if you’re on the short side you might struggle to tighten the straps to get a comfortable fit

Nomatic 40L Travel Bag

• The Nomatic has loads of really useful pockets to keep your paperwork, keys, water bottle and even your shoes organised.
• The handy Laptop and Tablet pockets will keep your electronics safe with the additional advantage of not needing to take your laptop out at security, as by lying flat in the pocket it complies with security measures
• The waterproof durable material will protect your possessions if you’re caught out in a rain shower.
• There are detachable waist straps which offer extra support and can be packed away when not in use
• The Nomatic 40L Travel Bag is one of the more expensive bags on the market, coming in at over $200.
• The zippers have a lower quality than the rest of the bag making it more fiddly and time-consuming to open the bag
• There’s no way outer compression straps to compress the bag if you haven’t filled it completely
• The laptop compartment has a restricted width of 10 inches so can’t fit larger laptops

For me, the best travel backpack for Europe has to be the Osprey Farpoint 40 . Not only does the bag look great, but it’s also really comfy to carry for longer periods due to the ergonomic design and the padding in the shoulder and hip straps.

he Osprey Farpoint 40 can hold more than the AmazonBasics and the Lifeasy backpacks and about the same as the Minaal. This is essential when you’re travelling for longer than a few days. The internal and external compression straps will hold everything in place and balance the internal weight while assuring that you can fit more in your bag and still get it in the overhead compartment for your flight. For this reason, it just pips the Minaal 2.0 and the Nomatic 40L backpack to the post, and with a better price tag too, it’s gentler on your budget but durable enough to stand up to frequent use, so it should last you years.

If money is no object and you must have the best, then check out the Minaal 2.0. When considering overall value for money, the Osprey 40 stands out. Making it the best carry on backpack for Europe!

About The Author

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The Backpacker Network

The Best Backpacks for Europe – Top Picks for Travellers!

Choosing the best travel backpack for Europe isn’t as simple as going to the supermarket and picking up the first bag you see. The continent’s ancient cities with cobbled walkways and tight, winding streets offer a unique challenge. And that’s without considering how you’ll travel between them!

Planes in Europe have different hand luggage allowances to those elsewhere and trains and buses tend to have storage compartments for big bags away from the seats. Cycling is also a popular way to travel locally.

We’ve regretted carrying travel bags on long-distance hikes, hated ourselves while trying to drag suitcases along tight cobbled streets and realised that comfortable trekking backpacks aren’t always ideal for city breaks in Europe! 

Through our mistakes, we’ve learnt what makes a good backpack for Europe and after testing a bunch of different setups, we’ve got plenty of wisdom to share.

Related : (links open in a new tab)

• How Much Does Backpacking Europe Cost?
• Season-by-Season Guide to Europe
• Europe Backpacking Routes (4 Epic Itineraries)

Disclosure: Some links on this page are affiliate links. We always write our articles before checking if affiliate links are available.

The Best Backpacks for Europe – Quick Answers!

• Available in male (Farpoint) and female (Fairview) models
• Carry on compliant
• Comes with Osprey's All Mighty Guarantee

• Made from recycled materials
• Suitcase style opening

Backpacks for Europe – Top Picks!

Osprey farpoint 40.

• Price Range: $
• Best Feature: Clamshell opening and carry-on compliant
• Feature To Improve: Not the most versatile Osprey backpack
• Read: Reviews of the Farpoint and Fairview (old models)
• New Model — Osprey released the new Farpoint and Fairview backpacks in 2022. They took an already great travel bag and used customer feedback to make it even better. The new models feature an improved AirScape back panel, as well as foam wings similar to the Osprey Porter . These offer more protection and better compression than the previous straps and wings. As well as this, Osprey corrected the biggest problem with the Farpoint and Fairview – the laptop sleeve placement. It now rests against your back as you carry the bag!
• Farpoint vs Fairview — As with most Osprey backpacks, this bag is available in male and female models. The Farpoint is built for men, while the Fairview is for women. In real terms, this means the Fairview straps are cut differently and the suspension system is made for a smaller frame.
• Comfort — The Osprey Farpoint and Fairview have always been comfortable backpacks. The padded shoulder straps, AirScape back panel, hip belt and LightWire Frame distribute the weight of your gear across your body, reducing the strain on your back and shoulders.
• Sizes — We always recommend the 40-litre version of these bags. They’re carry-on complaint, lightweight and don’t feel unwieldy when full. Plus, they hold plenty of gear for an extended backpacking trip. If you want a bit more space, the 55-litre models are an excellent choice. With the daypack removed, they usually fit into carry-on specs but you’ll need to double-check with your airline to be sure. Osprey also produce 70-litre versions of both the Farpoint and Fairview . These giant bags are too big for most travellers but the detachable daypack and extra space will be appealing for some.
• Clamshell opening
• Carry-on compliant
• Osprey's All Mighty Guarantee
• Not the most versatile Osprey backpack

TropicFeel Shell

• Price Range: $$
• Best Feature: Versatile and easy to pack
• Feature To Improve: Getting the right fit is challenging
• Read: Tropicfeel Shell review
• Travel Brand — Tropicfeel are an all-inclusive travel brand. They produce everything from travel shoes and apparel to backpacks and accessories. They know what they’re doing when it comes to producing excellent travel gear !
• Expandable — The Shell from Tropicfeel is 40 litres in its largest guise. However, if you don’t need that much space, the bag can be compressed down to 30 and even 22 litres! This versatility means the same bag can be used as your main travel backpack as well as a daypack! To achieve this, Tropicfeel rely on a series of straps, pouches and attachments.
• Conscious — The Shell is made from 100% recycled nylon and 60% recycled polyester. Tropicfeel work with Bluesign to ensure their materials come from ethical suppliers who treat their staff and the environment with respect. They’re also Climate Neutral Certified and provide transparent information about their entire supply chain thanks to Retraced .
• Accessories — Tropicfeel make a big song and dance about the accessories that work in conjunction with The Shell. The Tech Pouch and Toiletry Pouch both attach to the outside of the pack using the FidLock Mounting system (those little plastic nipple-looking things). You can only attach one at a time, so if you choose to use both, the other will need to be stored in the pack. The Camera Cube is an excellent piece of kit that fits perfectly into the bag but the Wardrobe system is overrated. It’s hard to use and the bag performs better without it. There’s also a padded laptop sleeve and a couple of hidden pockets for keeping valuables secure.
• Torso length is hard to get right
• Accessories are oversold

Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45

• Best Feature: Anti-theft features
• Feature To Improve: Security features make the bag very heavy
• ECONYL — The Venturesafe by Pacsafe is made from ECONYL. Created from discarded fishing nets and other waste plastics, this regenerated nylon removes the need for virgin plastics and reduces the environmental impact of the bag!
• Anti-Theft Technology — As with all Pacsafe bags, the Venturesafe keeps your gear safe. Using a combination of zip locking systems, eXomesh slashguard layers, a useful locking cable and puncture-resistant zips, you can rest assured your stuff is as protected as it can be while you travel around Europe!
• Ethics — Pacsafe have clear environmental and ethical policies . They donate 1% of website sales to grassroots projects through the Pacsafe Turtle Fund and arrange beach cleans across the world.
• Easy To Pack — As well as keeping your gear safe and helping to make the world a better place, the Venturesafe is a great backpack! The suitcase-style opening and huge main compartment make packing and organising your gear a breeze. The padded laptop sleeve can accommodate a 15-inch computer and there are a few smaller pockets dotted about the bag, so there’s always somewhere to store loose items!
• Comfort — Let’s not beat around the bush, Pacsafe’s Venturesafe is a heavy bag. Yet, it’s comfortable to carry. The internal frame distributes the weight well and the shoulder straps are padded enough to avoid them cutting in as you carry the bag. The waist strap directs a good portion of the bag’s weight to your legs, reducing strain on your back and shoulders.
• Anti-theft features
• Made with recycled materials
• Right on the limit for carry-on

Tortuga Travel Backpack

• Price Range: $$$
• Best Feature: Maximised space for carry-on
• Feature To Improve: Too much webbing on the hip belt (especially if you're slim)
• Carry-On Spec — Available in two sizes (30-litre and 40-litre), the Tortuga Travel Backpack is perfect for carry-on-only travellers. The 30-litre version is essentially guaranteed to be carry-on size for any airline. The 40-litre version can be touch and go for some international airlines but is well within US carry-on limits.
• Shape — While the bag’s square shape isn’t the most visually appealing, it maximises all the usable space within the bag – there are no awkward corners or parts of the bag that can only fit a pair of socks! It makes packing and organising your gear super simple. Plus, the bag opens like a suitcase so once unzipped, you have full, unfettered access to everything!
• Suspension System — The Travel Backpack is fully adjustable. The straps, back panel and hip belt can all be sized to fit you exactly. The straps are well padded, comfortable and spread the weight of your gear across your whole body. Load lifters ensure the bag doesn’t feel unwieldy when full and the moisture-wicking back panel keeps you cool and comfortable!
• Materials — The Tortuga Travel Backpacker is made from high-quality fabric and hardware. The bulk of the pack is created from durable Sailcloth. This material, first created for boat sails, is lightweight, uber-tough and waterproof. The buckles are rugged and the zips are waterproof and hardwearing.
• Makes the most of carry-on space
• Ultra-comfy
• Fully adjustable
• Not the best-looking bag

Osprey Farpoint Trek

• Best Feature: The hybrid nature of the bag
• Feature To Improve: A laptop sleeve would be a welcome addition
• Read: Osprey Farpoint Trek review
• Sizes — The Osprey Farpoint Trek is available in 55 and 75-litre models. The female version of the bag, the Fairview Trek, is available in 50 and 70-litre variants. We recommend the 50/55-litre models for travelling in Europe. They’re big enough to hold a ton of gear while being small enough to carry with relative ease. However, neither model is carry-on size, so you’ll need to check the bag on planes!
• Hybrid — Taking inspiration from Osprey’s extensive range of hiking and travel backpacks, the Farpoint/Fairview Trek is suitable for long-term travel and hardcore hiking trips. It features a clamshell design which offers easy access to your travel gear. Compression straps keep the bag as streamlined as possible and the amazing suspension system is super comfy, even after a long day of hiking!
• Comfort — The AirSpeed trampoline suspension keeps the pack off your back. This increases airflow and prevents bulky items pummelling your spine. It distributes the weight of your gear across your body and down to your hips. The hip belt features thick padding and can hold up to 80% of the bag’s weight, saving you from sore shoulders!
• Organisation — The Trek has one huge main compartment and a myriad of smaller pockets for arranging and organising your stuff. The main compartment can be sectioned off, so you can store a sleeping bag in the bottom part if required. You can also access this area through an extra zipper on the bottom section, so you don’t need to empty everything to get at your sleeping bag!
• Super comfy suspension system
• Separate entry points
• Rain cover is quite fiddly
• No laptop compartment
• Not carry-on size

Cotopaxi Allpa Del Dia

• Best Feature: Large internal compartments and suitcase-style opening
• Feature To Improve: Not the most comfortable back panel
• Del Dia — The Cotopaxi Allpa is available in a regular and Del Dia version. We recommend the Del Dia model because it’s made with (Re)Purpose fabrics. These offcuts from other backpack manufacturers mean Cotopaxi reduce waste and limit the environmental impact of their bags. Each Del Dia bag is unique with different coloured panels and stitching! You can choose from a range of Del Dia designs or use the ‘surprise me’ function to get a random colour combo!
• Size — The Allpa is available in 28, 35 and 42-litre models. The 35-litre model is the best for travelling in Europe because it’s carry-on compliant and can still hold plenty of gear. The 28-litre model makes an excellent daypack but only true minimalist travellers will be able to use it as their main pack. The 42-litre model is a little too large to always be carry-on compliant, although some airlines may allow you to take it as hand luggage.
• Suitcase Opening — The Allpa opens up like a suitcase. Once opened, it has one large main compartment and a series of smaller ones. Each has its own zipper and they’re all separated by lightweight mesh to ensure your gear remains organised. There’s a laptop sleeve in the back of the bag. This is accessed through an external zip. All the external zips have webbing tabs which you can pull the zipper through. These help prevent opportunistic thieves from getting into your bag.
• Carry — The Allpa carries well but the back panel lacks some padding compared to other backpacks on this list. The straps are less padded too which saves weight but means they’re not as comfortable as they could be. The straps can be hidden away when checking the bag for flights.
• Rain cover included
• Hard wearing
• No exterior pockets
• Anti-theft zips are more annoying than effective

Peak Design Travel Backpack

• Best Feature: Versatility 
• Feature To Improve: The weight and price
• Built for Photographers – As with all Peak Design products, the Travel Backpack is built for photographers. Thick foam padding around the bag means the gear inside the well protected and the bag holds its shape no matter how full or empty it is. There are a bunch of access points on the front, sides and back of the back, so you can easily get to exactly what you need. The bag integrates into the Peak Design ecosystem meaning their camera cubes, tech pouches and packing cubes all fit seamlessly into the backpack. 
• Expandable – Going from 30 litres up to 45, the Peak Design Travel Backpack is a true one-bag travel option. Fill it to the brim when on the move, then compress it down to use as a sturdy daypack when you leave the bulk of your gear at your accommodation. When used in 30 or 35-litre modes, this bag is within carry-on specs for most airlines but in the 45-litre iteration, it’s too big.
• Comfort – At a smidge over 2kg, the Travel Backpack is one of the heavier bags on our list. But even so, it remains one of the most comfortable. The thick foam padding which acts as protection also means the pack holds its shape well against your body, distributing the weight of your gear evenly across your shoulders, back and hips. The shoulder straps attach to the bag using a unique axial mounting system, which offers more adjustability than with a standard backpack, ensuring full comfort and versatility for a range of body types!
• Manoeuvrable – Almost every surface on the Travel Backpack has some kind of handle. This makes it easy to get the bag in and out of lockers, overhead compartments and other hidey holes. The shoulder straps and hip belt are stowable, allowing you to streamline this bag if you need to check it on a flight or just store it away.
• Expandable 
• Protects your gear
• Overkill for most travellers

Osprey Atmos/Aura

• Best Feature: Anti-Gravity suspension system 
• Feature To Improve: The weight
• Atmos vs Aura – As with many Osprey packs, this bag comes in specific gendered models. The Atmos is made for men, while the Aura is built for women. However, this isn’t a hard and fast rule. Some women may find the Atmos more comfortable just as some men may prefer the Aura. Try both in-store to see which offers the best fit for you!
• Hiking Bag – The Atmos/Aura backpacks are true hiking bags. They offer a range of features to make your trail days easier: huge water bottle pockets that can be accessed while wearing the bag, a fantastic Anti-Gravity suspension system that is one of the most comfortable we’ve ever tested, a front shove-it pocket for gear you’ll need in a hurry and excellent hip belt pockets are just some of the top-rated features within his bag! 
• Robust – The Atmos/Aura bags handle heavy loads well and can be used as real gear haulers if you’re tackling a long trail. At the same time, they work well enough as travel bags thanks to the vast storage space and rugged exterior. They lack some of the organisation of more dedicated travel bags but that’s to be expected!
• Adjustability – To ensure you get the best fit possible when choosing your backpack, consult the Osprey size guide. When your bag arrives, you may need to adjust the torso length, which is quick and easy to do. The fit on the fly hip strap also offers maximum adjustability so you can fine-tune the bag to you!
• Comfortable
• Carries weight well
• Loads of usable storage space
• Not always within carry-on size
• Heavy for a hiking bag

Osprey Farpoint Wheels

• Best Feature: The wheels 
• Feature To Improve: Backpack carry comfort
• Sizes – The Farpoint Wheels comes in two sizes: a 36-litre model and a 65-litre version. The smaller model is well within hand luggage sizes, even on budget European airlines. It’s very similar in size to most rolling hand luggage bags. The 65-litre bag will always be checked luggage as it’s much too large to take in the cabin. 
• Wheels – Unlike most wheeled luggage, the oversized 90mm casters on the Farpoint Wheels can handle relatively uneven terrain – you won’t get stuck between paving slabs or while walking along cracked old sidewalks. The single-stem handle reduces the overall weight of the bag but means it’s less manoeuvrable than it would be with a twin-stem handle. 
• Backpack Mode – When you inevitably hit some ancient European streets with uneven cobblestones or kerbs you need a stepladder to summit, the Farpoint Wheels has a trick up its sleeve. Un-stowing the shoulder straps and activating backpack mode only takes a minute, allowing you to swing the bag onto your back and walk free without needing to drag it behind you! When in backpack mode, the Farpoint Wheels is relatively comfortable compared to other wheeled backpacks thanks to the brilliant AirSpeed mesh back panel. However, it’s still nowhere near as comfortable as a regular Osprey backpack!
• Storage Space – Both the 36 and 65-litre models offer an astounding amount of usable space. They open like a suitcase and are essentially just a huge compartment for your stuff. There are very few organisational options within them, giving you ultimate freedom in how to pack your gear. Although this does mean packing cubes are important!
• Part of the Farpoint family
• Osprey’s All Mighty Guarantee
• Heavy when carried
• Not the most comfortable backpack
• Single stem handle can make the bag hard to manoeuvre

What to Consider When Choosing a Backpack for Europe

Type of trip = type of backpack .

The kind of trip you’re on will directly affect the type of backpack you need. There’s no point taking a rugged hiking bag for a short city break and a standard travel backpack just doesn’t have the features you’ll need on a multi-day trek. Make sure the bag you choose matches your holiday! 

Travel Backpacks 

Unsurprisingly, travel backpacks are built for travel. They should be comfortable to carry for reasonable distances but certainly aren’t designed for all-day comfort. They may have lots of organisational compartments, or may just be a big open pocket, depending on what you desire. The weight of these bags varies but most have frames to help spread the load. Hip belts aren’t mandatory on travel backpacks but they’re relatively common. 

Hiking Backpacks 

If you’re heading off on a hiking trip to Europe, don’t put yourself through the pain of carrying anything that’s not a specific hiking bag. Trust me when I say, it’s not worth the suffering! 

Unless you’re going ultra-light, you can expect hiking-specific backpacks to have plush shoulder straps and a good solid hip belt. The back panel should be breathable and not rub or chafe – remember this is a bag that you should be able to wear all day! More technical hiking packs are likely to have extra features such as gear loops, external attachment points and easily accessible exterior pockets or storage compartments! 

Backpacks With Wheels

As the name suggests, these are backpacks with wheels, although they’re often used more as suitcases with backpack straps. If the majority of your trip will be short hops from airports to hotels, especially if you don’t have to stray too far from smooth roads and pavements, a wheeled backpack is a good choice! Just don’t expect them to be as light or as comfortable as a dedicated backpack! 

Hybrid Backpacks 

Much like backpacks with wheels, hybrid backpacks straddle two worlds. Our favourite hybrid backpack for Europe is the Osprey Farpoint Trek. It has great features for both travel and hiking and is surprisingly comfortable to carry for long distances! 

Other hybrid backpacks may include duffel bags with backpack straps or expandable travel bags that can act as a main bag and daypack depending on your needs!

When choosing a backpack for Europe, one of the most important things to consider is how much stuff you’re going to take. You don’t want to realise that you’ve not got enough room for all your gear the night before you travel. Likewise, dragging a massive bag around unnecessarily is a chore and you’ll end up carrying way more than you need– not great for your back!

If you travel light(ish), a 40-litre backpack should be enough. However, if you want a few more home comforts, you’ll need to opt for a larger bag. For most travellers, a 60-litre bag will be the most you’ll need.

Having a backpack that’s the right size for your stuff is all good and well but if it’s not comfortable, it’s a waste of time. Look out for bags with quality back support, padded straps, a good hip belt and a sturdy sternum strap. These features all make a backpack much more comfortable to carry.

Most travel backpacks today feature an internal frame that helps balance the bag, distribute the weight of your gear and help the bag keep its shape. Whether you need a framed bag often doesn’t matter, you’re likely to end up with one anyway! 

Backpacks that are badly built, or made from shoddy materials, will fall apart and need to be replaced. It’s bad for your wallet and the planet. A long-lasting backpack costs a little more initially but will last for years of travel!

👉 Check out this post if you’re looking for the most sustainable backpack choices ! 

Remember, you’ve got to carry it! A backpack that weighs too much will be uncomfortable and in rare cases, cause injury. It can also take your luggage over the weight limit for airlines which means paying more!

Organisational Features

Do you like a bag to be full of pockets and hidey holes, or do you prefer a bag with one big main pocket that you can stuff all your belongings into? It all comes down to personal preference.

Backpacks with a lot of pockets make it much easier to organise and find your gear. However, the extra features impact the bag’s usable space and add to the overall weight. Bags with just one large compartment can store slightly more (if packed correctly) but you’ll probably find yourself digging through all your gear to find small items that inevitably fall to the bottom.

If you opt for a backpack with few organisational options, packing cubes can help keep your stuff in order!

Security Features

Europe is home to some of the safest countries in the world. But as with everywhere, there are common scams and crimes to be aware of. Pickpocketing is rife in some of the continent’s popular tourist destinations. To protect yourself from thieves, consider a bag with added security features. 

Lockable zips and hidden pockets are the bare minimum and are common in most travel bags . Other features to look out for in anti-theft backpacks are slash-proof materials and uncuttable straps.

Weather Resistance 

Wouldn’t you know, it sometimes rains in Europe – even if you visit in the height of summer! Having a bag that can protect your belongings in case of a downpour means you have one less thing to worry about! 

Packing List for Europe

Getting your bag for Europe sorted is one thing but now it’s time to fill it! What you’ll need to pack for Europe depends on where you’re going and what activities you plan to do but this European packing list has all the essentials you need for a great visit! 

Packing Tips for Europe

Before packing for Europe consider:

• The time of year you’ll be visiting
• Where you’re going
• What activities you’ll be doing
• How many days of clothes you need (laundrettes are common in Europe)
• Whether your clothes have multiple uses

The Best Backpacks for Europe FAQs

What’s the best size backpack for travelling europe.

There’s no one right-size backpack for travelling in Europe. Light packers are unlikely to need a backpack more than 40-50 litres. Bags on the smaller end of this range can usually be taken as carry-on for international airlines too, so you won’t need to check a bag! For travellers wanting a few more luxuries, a 60-65-litre bag should be enough. Any bigger and the bag starts to become unwieldy – especially when navigating tight city streets or public transport!

Is it safe to travel with a backpack in Europe?

Yes, it’s safe to travel with a backpack in Europe. However, some cities in Europe have a bad reputation for pickpocketing. Keep your wits about you and don’t leave your bag unattended. When on public transport, store your bag at your feet rather than on your back – especially if you’re travelling at rush hour. Travelling with a backpack in Europe is just as safe, if not safer, than travelling with a suitcase.

Backpack vs suitcase for travelling in Europe?

Europe is full of ancient cities, narrow streets, cobblestones and extensive public transport systems. A backpack is much more suited to this environment than a suitcase. Having all your gear on your back means you can zip over uneven ground, down into metro systems and through crowds without having to drag everything behind you.

Is a 40-litre backpack enough for travelling in Europe?

For most travellers, a 40-litre backpack is enough for travelling in Europe. While some might want a bit more space from their bag, the pros of travelling with a smaller bag far outweigh the cons. Being able to fly carry-on only and keep all your stuff with you on planes and trains more than makes up for having to leave an outfit or two at home. Plus, a smaller bag is easier to carry when you’re exploring or moving between cities!

Can I bring a backpack full of clothes on a plane?

Yes, you can bring a backpack full of clothes on a plane. As long as there is nothing in there that you’re not allowed, and your bag fits within the airline’s limits, you can take what you like on a plane. Plenty of carry-on-only travellers take everything they need for months as hand luggage!  

Round Up of the Best Backpacks for Travelling in Europe

When choosing a backpack for Europe, size, comfort and durability are the most important factors to consider. Our favourite bag for travelling on the continent is the Osprey Farpoint / Fairview . These excellent all-rounders are the perfect travel companion for almost any trip.

We also love the Cotopaxi Allpa 35 . It’s an excellent backpack but the environmental and charitable work done by Cotopaxi makes it stand out as the eco-friendly choice. This is also true of the Tropicfeel Shell which has fewer organisational features but is still an environmentally friendly option. The best anti-theft backpack for travelling in Europe is the Pacsafe Venturesafe.

Tim Ashdown | Writer and Gear Specialist

After a life-changing motorcycle accident, Tim decided life was too short to stay cooped up in his home county of Norfolk, UK. Since then, he has travelled Southeast Asia, walked the Camino de Santiago and backpacked South America. His first book,  From Paralysis to Santiago,  chronicles his struggle to recover from the motorcycle accident and will be released later this year.

11 Best Purses for Travel in Europe

Categories Fashion , Travel Style

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If you’re like me, it’s always a struggle to decide what bag to bring when I travel internationally, so I’ve found 11 of the best purses for travel in Europe to help you out!

From  crossbody  to  shoulder bags , there are a lot of cute travel purses to hold your passport, wallet, and other essentials.

Click the images below to shop the best purses for travel in Europe:

You always want to keep valuables close when traveling abroad, especially in Europe, where there tend to be many pickpocketers and scammers—purse security features can be a nice perk if you’re nervous about theft.

Aesthetics and comfort are also essential to consider when buying a purse for a European vacation since you’ll want a travel bag that’s practical but fashionable so it can be styled with any outfit.

I’m here to tell you that plenty of cute travel bag options are out there!

Shop my picks for the best travel purses by clicking the images below:

I’ve rounded up the best  crossbody bags  and  lightweight travel handbags , so let’s jump into this list of the best purses for travel in Europe!

To make things easy for you, you can shop for these products by clicking directly on the images, the shopping buttons, and the text links.

These are my affiliate links, which means I receive a small commission when you purchase using my links (at no additional cost to you!), and I greatly appreciate you shopping with my links!

1. Lo & Sons The Pearl Crossbody Bag

First up on my list of the best purses for travel in Europe is the Lo & Sons The Pearl Crossbody Bag .

This gorgeous Crossbody Travel Purse is expertly crafted with Saffiano leather, a textured, weather-resistant, incredibly durable material. 

The Pearl has various travel-friendly features, from the various interior pockets to the convertible strap.

Plus, this bag is just as luxurious as it is functional, so you’ll have no trouble styling it as you explore different European countries.

At $298, The Pearl is an investment piece, but the high quality makes it worth the price since you’ll get years of use.

2. Kate Spade Laurel Way Rima Crossbody

The Kate Spade Laurel Way Rima Crossbody is a super stylish, travel-friendly purse that should be at the top of your Europe packing list!

I love how slim this crossbody is because I can keep all my essentials within reach without carrying a bulky bag. 

Black is a classic color choice, but I can’t get over how beautiful the Lilac Moonlight shade is since I’m a sucker for pastels.

The Laurel Way Rima Crossbody is made from high-quality Saffiano leather that looks and feels ultra-luxe—I promise you’ll become instantly obsessed!

3. Baggallini Everywhere Bagg

Baggallini’s  Everywhere Bagg  is one of the best travel bag picks designed for fashion and functionality.

The  Everywhere Crossbody  is ultra-light for comfortable wear and includes a detachable RFID-blocking wristlet.

The main bag and the mini travel wallet provide RFID protection, many organizational pockets, and a pass-through sleeve for luggage handles.

This  Everywhere Crossbody Travel Bag  has a sleek, slightly curved shape that’s chic and versatile for all your travel looks.

4. Travelon Anti-Theft Boho North/South Crossbody

I’ll be honest—I haven’t always enjoyed Travelon’s bags. Popular options from the brand include the Travelon  Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag  and  Classic Mini Shoulder Bag , which are functional but not very stylish.

Thankfully, Travelon has upped its lightweight travel handbag game in recent years!

The  Anti-Theft Boho North/South Crossbody Purse  has a trendy quilted design in several colors and patterns.

From a locking main compartment to slash-proof straps and RFID-blocking technology, the Travelon  Anti-Theft Boho N/S/ Crossbody  can do it all.

Click the images below to start shopping for the best purses for travel in Europe:

5. Arden Cove Full Anti-Theft Waterproof Crossbody Bag

How fashionable is this Arden Cove Full Anti-Theft Waterproof Crossbody Bag ?

This Anti-Theft Travel Purse instantly caught my eye when I was browsing for the perfect travel purse, and the fact it’s waterproof and has RFID-blocking pockets is a huge pro.

The Arden Cove Crossbody Bag is made from waterproof nylon and vegan leather, so it looks and feels high-quality—not to mention the bag contains a full slash-proof lining.

Considering the timeless design and anti-theft features, I think this waterproof travel purse is worth the $174 price tag.

6. Lo & Sons The Bond Crossbody Belt

I had to include another Lo & Sons bag in this guide to the best purses for travel in Europe—they’re just that good!

The Bond  is a minimalist and lightweight crossbody bag that you can clip around your waist as a fanny pack.

This  sling bag  has plenty of pockets to keep credit cards, IDs, and travel documents handy, and the anti-microbial lining ensures your items will stay clean no matter where your adventures take you.

You can choose from a  600D Recycled Poly version  of this stylish travel purse, which retails for $98, or splurge on the $328  sheepskin leather style .

7. Away F.A.R. Messenger 16L

Away is one of the trendiest sites for travel luggage, bags, and accessories, and I had to include the  F.A.R. Messenger 16L  in this roundup of bags perfect for taking to Europe.

This stylish travel purse is compact but spacious enough to store all your daily essentials and features an adjustable shoulder strap.

The  F.A.R. Messenger  is made from water-resistant nylon fabrics and has a zipper pocket for everything you need.

The $80 price for this  small travel purse  is a steal, considering how many bells and whistles this bag has.

8. Longchamp Le Pliage Original L Tote

Totes might not be the first bag style that comes to mind when you think of the best purses for travel in Europe, but hear me out!

Longchamp’s  Le Pliage Original L Tote Bag  is a good travel purse option because it’s big enough to fit your laptop or tablet.

This is a stylish  travel tote  perfect for remote workers and business owners like me who want to stay on top of things from anywhere in the world.

The top snap button and zipper closure keep all your items safe, and you could even use the  Le Pliage Tote  as a fashionable overnight bag.

Start shopping my picks for the best crossbody travel purses and handbags for Europe by clicking the images below:

9. Senreve Circa Bag

This Senreve  Circa Bag  is one of the most aesthetic purses on this list.

This gorgeous purse is made from 100% Italian leather and can be worn as a backpack, crossbody, shoulder, or top-handle bag, thanks to the adjustable strap.

Not only does the  Circa Bag  look and feel luxurious af, but it’s also scratch, weather, and stain-resistant, which is a must for international travel.

The Senreve  Circa Bag  is a splurge given the $500+ price tag, but the extra cost is worth it since you’re investing in a quality piece that’s incredibly versatile and durable.

10. Lululemon Crossbody Camera Bag

A roundup of the best purses to take as you travel Europe would be incomplete without a Lululemon travel piece!

Lululemon has changed the game regarding functional, durable, and stylish travel bags, so I knew I had to try the  Camera Crossbody .

This  Mini Travel Bag  comes in several gorgeous colors that are luxurious and versatile—you can easily style them with any travel outfit.

The water-repellant  Crossbody Purse  has a surprisingly roomy interior compartment that zips closed and fits your phone, keys, and more while keeping items neat and organized.

You can snag a Lululemon  Small Messenger Bag  for $78, a splurge worth every penny.

If you’re looking for a bag for a teenager to take on a trip, this would top my list of  travel accessories for teens .

11. Dagne Dover Micah Crossbody

My last pick for the top Europe travel purses is Dagne Dover’s Micah Crossbody . 

The Micah Crossbody is a fashionable option that can easily be styled up or down, with plenty of travel features like a key leash and credit card slots.

One of the best parts is this Dagne Dover Travel Crossbody Purse is made from 100% vegan neoprene, which is also water-resistant—a must for traveling.

You can expect to pay $110 for this lightweight travel purse , which is a great deal, IMO.

I hope you’ve enjoyed this roundup of the best European travel purses! If you prefer to travel with carry-all tote bags for plenty of space, I recommend the Beis East to West Travel Purse .

Wanting a bag with space for your camera? Check out this post if you’re looking for the best travel camera backpack .

Make sure to tag me on Insta (@ wtfab ) if you snag any of these bags so I can see what travels you take them on.

Click the images below to browse the best purses for travel in Europe:

Planning a trip and need more travel outfit inspo? I’ve got tons of travel style content here !

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I like to travel with a crossbody purse or shoulder bag since I can keep it nice and close to my body.

The Arden Cove Full Anti-Theft Waterproof Crossbody Bag is a stylish anti-theft purse.

My picks include the Lo & Sons Pearl Crossbody and the Senreve Circa Bag .

Elise Armitage is an entrepreneur and founder of  What The Fab , a travel + lifestyle blog based in California. At the beginning of 2019, Elise left her corporate job at Google to chase her dreams: being an entrepreneur and helping women find fabulous in the everyday. Since then, she’s launched her SEO course Six-Figure SEO, where she teaches bloggers how to create a passive revenue stream from their website using SEO. Featured in publications like Forbes, Elle, HerMoney, and Real Simple, Elise is a firm believer that you can be of both substance and style.

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18 Best Travel Backpacks, According to Frequent Flyers

By Gabrielle Porcaro

As someone who frequently travels, I've slung duffels, totes , and travel purses on my arm, but nothing compares to using the best travel backpacks. Depending on the length of your trip, a suitcase can either be too bulky or not big enough, so you'll need the vital second bag to make sure all your clothes, tech, and gear securely arrive at your destination. Plus, traveling with a backpack can be more supportive for your back, freeing up your arms and hands to pull out directions on your phone or to hold an iced coffee. Backpacks can also be surprisingly roomy, so everything you need (or want) on your trip fits as comfortably as possible. The good news is there are a wide range of excellent options to suit any and all of your needs. Below, we found the most travel-friendly options and tapped Glamour editors and some of our frequent flier friends to share the best travel backpacks.

What to look for in a travel backpack

When shopping for luggage items like a travel backpack, the comfort and capacity of the bag is key. You want it to feel easy on the body which means wide straps or a hip belt to distribute weight, which comes in handy if you're running to catch a plane or carrying it through a crowded subway. Bonus points if the straps are they adjustable and padded. Consider the material; is it lightweight, soft, and made of durable material like water-resistant fabric? As for size, think about the use of the backpack. There are weekender bags and carry-on size options you can use for long weekends or smartly packed week-long vacations and styles for short day trips, hikes, or shopping excursions.

The best travel backpacks, at a glance

• Best Overall : Cotopaxi Allpa 42L Travel Pack , $210
• Best on Amazon : Shrradoo Extra Large 52L Travel Laptop Backpack , $33
• Best Daypack : Lululemon Everywhere Backpack , $78
• Best Budget : Coofay Carry On Backpack , $30
• Best for Commuters : Everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack , $95
• Most Stylish : Tumi Voyageur Just in Case Packable Nylon Travel Backpack , $150

All products featured on Glamour are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Best Overall : Cotopaxi Allpa 42L Travel Pack

Here's a simple, sleek backpack with plenty of built-in organization. “My twin sister and I have traveled the world together, and this bag came in particularly handy on our trip to South America when we both needed more room besides our carry-on luggage. What I loved about this piece is it's essentially a suitcase with straps. The wrap zipper fully opens up, allowing you to see and organize your goods into the compartments. Crafted in repurposed nylon, the exterior is one of a kind, and the colors made it easier to spot one another through the crowds,” says Glamour contributor Gabrielle Porcaro .

Capacity: 42 L / Waterproof : Water-resistant

• Pros: Repurposed nylon body; suitcase layout; weight-distributing harness system
• Cons: Can easily show dirt

Best on Amazon : Shrradoo Extra Large 52L Travel Laptop Backpack

As a runner-up, consider this the Swiss Army knife of backpacks. Hidden in this compact, durable bag are 20 pockets and compartments to accommodate and organize everything from clothes to an umbrella to power cords. A practical standout feature of this travel backpack is an external USB port with set-in charging cables to charge your phone (just remember to charge your power pack before heading out on your trip). Another noteworthy aspect is the U-shaped, 3D, breathable mesh straps designed to relieve stress from shoulders and reduce a sweaty back.

Capacity: 52 L / Waterproof : Water-resistant

• Pros: So many pockets for organizing; USB charging port; comfortable
• Cons: Chucky, technical look

Best Daypack : Lululemon Everywhere Backpack

Lululemon gets a lot of love for their Lulu leggings and activewear but don't sleep on their accessories like their laptop bags . A classic backpack with a modern design, the Everywhere Backpack has a clean appearance that will effortlessly match your look. Inside it's spacious and has a padded pocket that fits a 16-inch laptop. On the exterior is a front zipper pocket is for keys, antibacterial wipes, headphones, and whatever you need handy while on-the-go.

Capacity: 22 L / Waterproof : Water-repellent

• Pros: Internal laptop sleeve; side water bottle pockets; lightweight
• Cons: No luggage strap; not a ton of pockets

Best Budget : Coofay Carry On Backpack

This affordable, multifunctional pack is lightweight but can hold a lot, and easily fit under an airline seat as a carry-on. “[I] loved the space and compartments of this bag. It's durable and packed a lot of room for so many things. The luggage handle strap is also a bonus if you're hauling a roller bag,” wrote one Amazon reviewer . Bonus: It has a shoes and a wet pocket compartment.

Capacity: 17 L / Waterproof : Yes

• Pros: Separate shoe compartment, 29 color options; USB port design
• Cons: Luggage strap short

By Emily Tannenbaum

By Sophia Bush

Best for Commuters : Everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack

Whether you're a college commuter or in the office most days, this is an excellent option for every day travel or work trips. It's a go-to for Condé Nast associate director of box business operations Haley Welch . “The separate laptop compartment makes organizing seamless as does the front and upper zipper compartments which is great for a Kindle,” she says. She likes that the chic and minimal look effortlessly mixes with every outfit, from comfy travel joggers and hoodies to a work-appropriate suit or dress.

Capacity : 27 L / Waterproof : Water-resistant

• Pros : Internal and external water bottle holders; zipper pocket on top; made from renewed materials
• Cons : Only holds a 15-inch laptop

Most Stylish : Best Tumi Voyageur Just in Case Packable Nylon Travel Backpack

For anyone looking for a dressier option for their everyday commute or regular work trips, Tumi has a gorgeous style. Don't let the sleek appearance fool you; the zipper reveals a very roomy interior but still folds flat. A two-way zipper makes it easier to grab whatever you need from the inside with a smaller front pocket as well. There’s also a very convenient add-to-a-bag sleeve to secure this nicely over your suitcase handle, making it one to use on daily and international excursions. It's so stylish it can double as a cute work bag for office days.

Capacity: 15"H x 12 "W x 4 1/2"D. (Interior capacity: large) / Waterproof : Water-resistant

• Pros :Packable; folds down flat; lightweight
• Cons: Doesn’t fit a ton

Best for Organization : Snoffic Travel Backpack

If remaining organized is of the utmost importance while traveling or in everyday life, look no further than this North Face backpack. This wallet-friendly pick has a 4.6-star on Amazon and under $35 price tag. “I was able to pack a week's worth of summer clothes in it, which included two summer dresses," says one Amazon reviewer . Not only does this bag offer ample space and waterproof material, but it also includes two clear toiletry bags (also waterproof) to help you reduce your ziplock baggie usage. Plus, it comes in a wide range of pretty shades.

Capacity : 40 L / Waterproof : Water-resistant

• Pros : Nicely priced; roomy; includes two toiletry bags
• Cons : Boxy shape

Best for Pockets : Athleta Excursion Backpack

This pick, courtesy of Glamour commerce editor Malia Griggs , is one that can hold every little trinket or gadget you own. “I thought this backpack was going to my go-to for hiking, but it’s actually my go-to for pretty much everything. I love how sleek it is, and yet, despite its slim appearance, it manages to fit my 15-inch laptop, my secondary screen, charger, headphones, e-reader, and mouse. It has handy organizational features, like an inner key ring, zippered outer pockets for me to stash my lip gloss and phone, and not one but two mesh pockets that fit my water bottle and an umbrella. Its handles are also made of a breathable fabric—so useful when I’ve worked up a sweat while out and about.”

• Pros :Lightweight; ripstop material resists snags and tears; mesh back panel for added support
• Cons: Larger on top shape

Best Minimalist Design : Dagne Dover Dakota Medium Neoprene Backpack

“On my last flight, I saw not one, not two, but multiple travelers with this style hanging from their backs. As someone who regularly brings Dagne Dover bags with her on trips, I understand the popularity. The neoprene material is strong, soft, and stretchy, which causes the bag to flex to your body and whatever you put inside. It's forgiving, allowing you to fit in and possibly overstuff everything you need for a trip. It also washes well, ensuring it will always have that chic appearance even after some wear and tear,” says Porcaro. Dagne Dover also makes excellent diaper backpacks like this parent-approved Indi Diaper Bag .

Capacity: 16 L / Waterproof : No

• Pros: Packs a lot; machine washable
• Cons: Neoprene is a bit heavier than other material; material creases easily

Best for Airplane Travel : Augustnoa Classic Noa

“So many features drew me to this bag: the eco-friendly (plus water-friendly) material, smart design, and luggage sleeve—a must for any travel carry-on piece. There are ten pockets and compartments to organize essentials, something I took full advantage of when using. As an active person trying to hydrate more, I also appreciated the side pockets that securely held my water bottle (I bent over, and it didn't budge). It also includes a removable drawstring bag, something I always forget to pack for morning workouts and overnight travels,” says Porcaro.

Capacity: 21 L / Waterproof : Water-resistant

• Pros: Pockets on straps; laptop and tablet sleeve; two water bottle holders
• Cons: Pockets in the back and on straps are small

Best Roll Top : Roark Passenger 27L 2.0 Bag

Expandable storage is always a plus with any travel bag. This backpack, from the super cool brand Roark, has an adjustable top to allow more room. The roll-top also has a magnetic entry, allowing for easy and secure access on the move. Interior and exterior pockets, including one for your tablet or laptop, sunglasses, and a hidden pocket for your passport, are specific details that make this a unique backpack. Ergonomic air mesh padded straps, a quilted back, and chest straps prevent this from adding any discomfort to your travels. The appearance calls for adventure, but it equally works in cities.

Capacity: 27 L / Waterproof : 100% Nylon

• Pros: Streamlined look; quilted back; magnetic closure top
• Cons: Could use more internal pockets

Best Large Travel Bag : Patagonia Black Hole Duffel 55L

The beauty of this bag is it says it right in the title—it's a black hole. With a 55-liter capacity, there's no doubt it will hold everything you need for a long weekend or even a long weekend trip. Ultra-comfortable to carry, it's perfect for hiking excursions, camping trips, or multi-city European backpacking adventures. Durably made with 100% recycled fabric, this fits in the overhead bin; if you want to check it, you can trust it will return to you just as you left it.

Capacity: 55 L / Waterproof : Water Repellent

• Pros: Large, carry-on size, top and side handles; removable shoulder straps
• Cons: Rugged design

Best for Laptop : Herschel Kaslo Dayback Tech Backpack

If you're looking for a laptop backpack , this is a top choice. Hershel backpacks are a go-to for marriage and family therapist and mom of two boys, Whitney Steller. “I have had this for almost six years, and the quality is amazing. No rips or anything and the straps are still comfortable. “The classic grade school look was also a draw and the fact that it fits perfectly under a plane seat. This style, in particular, is eco-friendly, made from post-consumer water bottles, and has a padded compartment to fit up a 15-inch laptop.

Capacity: 20 L / Waterproof : No

• Pros: Optional strum strap to help disturbed weight; padded compartment for laptop
• Cons: No luggage sleeve

Best Y-Pack : Topo Designs Y-Pack Backpack

This is an awesome option for anyone who ends up leaving a trip with more than they brought. “The adjustable Y-shaped strap can be tight and secure or loosened to allow for more room, which is the reason why this is a piece of heavy rotation for me. It always shocks me how much I can fit/shove into the main compartment yet still slide my laptop out of the back sleeve. No matter if it’s filled with a hoodie and various pouches holding makeup, power cords, and snacks; it's easy to access. I like to use the zip pocket on the top to store antibacterial wipes, hand sanitizer, headphones, and anything else I want easy access to once I arrive on the flight,” says Porcaro.

Capacity: 23.8 L / Waterproof : No

• Pros: Drawstring closure offers more space; zip pocket on top for easy access; durable material great for travel and the outdoors
• Cons: G-hook buckle closure can sometimes be tough

Best Waterproof : SealLine Skylake Dry Pack

The beauty of this piece is that it rolls up for easy packing within a suitcase or larger travel backpack. The fact that it's created from an extremely lightweight material also ups the packability and wear factor. Jen Ator, a personal trainer, used this on her honeymoon in Thailand. “Not only was it super sturdy and waterproof, but it fits everything we needed during day trips.” She also pointed out how handy the exterior pocket was for easy access to essentials like a phone to snap a picture of her and her husband.

Capacity : 18 L / Waterproof : Yes

• Pros: Lightweight; stowable
• Cons: No interior pocket

Best Convertible : Thule Crossover 2 Convertible Backpack

Adaptability is vital when traveling, and this Thule convertible backpack offers various ways to hold it. If you're in a tight space, de-boarding, or want to give your shoulders a break, there is a longer shoulder strap and top handle to hold. Inside the backpack, you'll find compartments that look like your favorite easy-rolling carry-on suitcase, making it easy to keep everything with you secure and organized. Another standout feature is the exterior crush-resistant SafeZone compartment that's perfect for storing sunglasses or a phone.

Capacity: 21 ¾"H x 14"W x 8"D. / Waterproof : Water Resistant

• Pros: Crust resistant, two-way zip closure, RFID-shielded pocket;
• Cons: Expensive

Best for City Travel : PAK Large Nylon Backpack

“As a backpack I recently added to my collection, I was impressed by how many features were hidden in what seemed like a pretty basic bag. First, it’s worth noting how seamlessly this slid on and off my back, making it a breeze to sit on the subway or grab my wallet to buy coffee. At first glance, I was confused about the zipper on the bottom of the front pocket, but when I realized it was a coat sling, which, as someone who runs cold and always has an extra layer, is something I will use again and again. Another made-for-me feature is an extra large pocket for water bottles since it’s a personal pet peeve when they aren’t wide enough for standard sizes. Having only worn this around the city for daily life, I appreciate that the shape and look of the pack are city-ready and more polished. When I take this on international trips, I look forward to using the hidden theft-proof compartments,” says Porcaro.

Capacity: 13.5”L x 7” W x 14” H / Waterproof : No

• Pros: Easy access pocket in the back, Coat sling, Large side pockets
• Cons: Not super large

Best Customizable : Roam Continental Backpack

Anyone who is a fan of customization will appreciate this pick. Buyers can choose the color they want on the front, back, side, and straps to create a bag that is uniquely theirs. This is favorite of Glamour commerce editor Jenifer Calle , who has been using it for years. “It fits enough for weekend trips and vacation travel. I particularly like that the side zippers fit my Owala water bottle and there are plenty of zipper and pockets to hold my wallet, keys, chargers, lip balms, and more” says Glamour’s Calle.

Capacity : 26 L / Waterproof : Water Repellent

• Pros : Customizable; 100-day trial period; soft material; luggage sleeve
• Cons : Expensive

By Stephanie McNeal

By Jenny McCoy

By Brie Schwartz

12 Travel Garment Bags to Look Good Everywhere

Be wrinkle-free everywhere you go

Every product on this page was chosen by a Harper's BAZAAR editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

But choosing the best travel garment bag for your needs can be a challenge. There are a lot of options on the market, so we asked an expert about how to find the right one. According to Tumi creative director Victor Sanz, “Your garment bag should be sturdy, functional, and sleek. If you’re frequently traveling by plane, a garment bag that folds to fit carry-on requirements is essential.” He adds, “You want to find the size that will fit all your clothes without having to overfold them and will allow you to reach your destination in style.”

Best Quilted Garment Bag

Mz wallace michael garment bag.

Best Luxury Garment Bag

Tumi alpha garment bag trifold carry-on.

Best Garment Duffel

Halfday the garment duffel.

Best Timeless Garment Bag

Longchamp boxford garment bag.

Best Packable Garment Bag

Calpak packable garment bag.

Best Affordable Garment Bag

Amazon basics premium garment bag.

Best Durable Garment Bag

Hartmann metropolitan two-garment sleeve.

Best Personalized Garment Bag

Mark & graham commuter 2-in-1 garment bag.

Best Expandable Garment Bag

Samsonite ascella 3.0 softside expandable luggage.

Best Water-Resistant Garment Bag

Stitch ultimate garment bag.

It’s also important to consider bonus features, like pockets and organizational compartments, and, as Sanz notes, “A crucial function is to ensure that you’re able to hang your garment bag when you arrive at your destination, so that you can prepare your outfits as easily as possible and to ensure that all your clothes are crisp.” Keeping all this in mind, we found the 12 best travel garment bags out there today. Once you start using one of these, you’re never going to go back.

MZ Wallace’s signature quilting isn’t limited to the brand’s totes, appearing here in garment bag form. The thin design is extremely lightweight, ideal for quick trips when you need to bring one to three outfits. There is even an exterior pocket for bonus storage.

Dimensions: 22" × 3" × 39"

Materials: Oxford, leather

What reviewers are saying: “I have been interested in a MZ Wallace garment bag for a while. It is perfect! Just right proportions and size. Thoughtful design and construction details.”

Tumi always delivers premium luggage that will last you over a decade, and this garment bag is no exception. Sanz says: “It’s foldable, with a sturdy handle for easy carrying, making it convenient and compact for every type of travel. I also love that it has several zipper pockets, so I can pack my toiletries and other travel essentials all in one bag. When I arrive at my destination, I hang it in the closet and I know that I will be ready to go.”

Dimensions: 15" x 22" x 6"

Materials: Ballistic nylon

What reviewers are saying: “This bag stores so much for a carry on. I was able to comfortably fit 2 suits and more for a destination wedding!”

This duffel has been receiving high praise ever since its release. A few of the reasons it’s so popular: The duffel is carry-on friendly, water-resistant, and has interior and exterior pockets. And those are only a few of its distinguishing features. Choose an original or compact size for the style that suits your needs.

Dimensions: 22" x 12" x 12"

Materials: Polyester

What reviewers are saying: “The Garment Duffel is a great purchase, especially for anyone in an industry that takes short frequent trips. I was actually able fit quite a bit more clothes than I had anticipated. Took the bag to work and my company bought 20 of them to give to customers. Great purchase.”

Longchamp’s iconic nylon and leather trim takes on a garment bag silhouette. The two-tone design exudes sophistication, with practical touches like a top carry handle, built-in hanger, and front zip pocket.

Dimensions: 23.25" x 41.25"

Materials: Nylon, leather

What reviewers are saying: “I bought this as a gift for my boyfriend who travels a lot and needed a nice garment bag particularly for his suits. This bag is perfect! It fits his suit as well as a few extra shirts. The fabric is an amazing, durable quality, and the leather details make this product look incredible.”

This garment bag is actually designed to fit inside of your carry-on, rather than serving as a stand-alone piece. The water-resistant exterior protects against spills, and exterior zip pockets hold small accessories. It gets the job done, while taking up the least possible amount of space.

Dimensions: 40" x 19"

What reviewers are saying: “I use this bag when I need to workout at work. I go from a suit to athleticwear in minutes.”

Looking for an affordable option that is available ASAP? Amazon’s garment bag holds up to three suits or dresses and boasts multiple zipper compartments.

Dimensions: 40" x 4" x 20.5"

What reviewers are saying: “I bought this bag in 2019 and it has held up incredibly well since then, performs all functions advertised at a great price value. I have taken it on many flights, buses and train rides and have never had an issue with fitting it in the overhead bin on both longer-haul flights and short budget-airline carriers.”

Hartmann’s garment bag adds contemporary touches to an otherwise traditional design. The result? A chic, useful travel accessory that will stand the test of time. The padded shoulder strap and multiple interior pockets enhance the convenience of this style.

Materials: Nylon

What reviewers are saying: “Hartmann was an anniversary gift from my work place, and I am still proud to own it 35 years later.”

Mark & Graham Commuter 2-in-1 Garment Bag

Another convertible duffel, but this time with a personalized touch. That’s right—Mark & Graham lets you monogram your duffel. With a plethora of zippered and snap interior and exterior pockets, this bag gets creative with its storage solutions.

Dimensions: 22" x 10" x 10"

This spinner-style garment bag makes navigating a chaotic airport easy. The ergonomic design has expandable capabilities, as well as various compartments, a hanger bracket, and a pocket for liquids.

Dimensions: 20.5" x 24" x 9.5"

What reviewers are saying: “It’s easy to maneuver and overall great quality and very neat design (many compartments and zippered areas).”

For golfers and non-golfers alike, Stitch makes a duffel that is water- and stain-resistant, and includes a hanger hook, shoulder strap, elastic shoe pockets, and webbed handles. You can even get it customized with your initials.

Dimensions: 22.5" x 11.5" x 12"

What reviewers are saying: “Love it! Fits into the airplane overhead bin, no trouble bringing it along as a carry-on bag. Very sturdy, zippers are tough enough. Shoulder strap is removable. My suit arrived in top shape using this garment bag. Highly recommended.”

Ralph Lauren Leather-Trim Hybrid Garment Duffel

Ralph Lauren’s duffel design is the epitome of understated elegance. An accompanying shoulder strap makes it easy to carry around.

Dimensions: 15" x 21.5" x 9"

Materials: Polyester, leather

Gucci Savoy Garment Bag

Embrace the bold luxury aesthetic with a Gucci bag covered in the house’s monogram. Containing a big compartment with a hanger and two zip pockets, this garment bag will hold all your essentials.

Dimensions: 21.5" x 16.1" x 6.7"

Materials: Canvas, leather, cotton

.css-p3fpzg{font-family:NewParisTextBook,NewParisTextBook-roboto,NewParisTextBook-local,Georgia,Times,Serif;font-weight:normal;letter-spacing:-0.015rem;margin-bottom:0.625rem;margin-top:0.625rem;}@media(max-width: 48rem){.css-p3fpzg{font-size:2.25rem;line-height:1.1;}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.css-p3fpzg{font-size:2rem;line-height:1.1;}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-p3fpzg{font-size:2.625rem;line-height:1.1;}}.css-p3fpzg b,.css-p3fpzg strong{font-family:inherit;font-weight:bold;}.css-p3fpzg em,.css-p3fpzg i{font-style:normal;font-family:NewParisTextItalic,NewParisTextItalic-roboto,NewParisTextItalic-local,Georgia,Times,Serif;} Why trust Harper’s Bazaar ?

For more than 150 years, Harper’s Bazaar has been the preeminent fashion, beauty, and lifestyle resource for women at every age. We cover what’s new and what’s next in fashion by working with the world’s leading authorities in ready-to-wear, footwear, accessories, and more. Every story we publish has been thoroughly researched and vetted by our team of editors and industry experts.

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10 Essential Tips For Backpacking Through Europe

B ackpacking Europe is one of those dreamy scenarios many of us long for, even if the idea sounds intimidating. So long as you plan out the more logistical elements on a backpacking journey , though, it doesn't have to be as scary as it sounds. Backpacking is a freeing and fascinating way to see a place as varied and easily transited as Europe.

Traversing Europe with a big backpack is the best way to see several parts — popular and hidden gems combined — of the continent in one trip. That's largely because you won't have to pull or lug a roller bag across the cobblestone streets of Edinburgh or try to carry a giant checked bag up the stairs or hills of Rome. Once you eliminate the traveler's baggage, you open yourself up to a much simpler trip, especially if you plan on taking public transit or budget airlines along the way.

Read more: Dangerous European Destinations To Skip On Your Next Trip

Keep Your Frame In Mind When Buying A Backpack

The key to a good backpacking trip is the backpack itself. Osprey , for example, makes incredible packs for long-haul adventures with back supports, day packs that clip onto the larger bags, and lots of storage for everything you'll need. However, backpacks are made differently, and not every pack will be right for your body structure or stature. For example, if you have a petite frame or a short torso, smaller sizes might serve you better. Men with smaller frames have even found women's backpacking packs comfortable.

Backpacking bags also come in different volume sizes, so it's important to recognize how much you can feasibly carry on your back. These liter differentiations will also alert you to whether or not the bag will be accepted on certain airlines or train lines. When ordering a pack, you can also utilize size charts to help make the process easier. This is a vital planning piece for folks with wide hips or large chests. It might not matter to you if you can't use the chest clip for extra support, but if you want to use it, you must measure and order correctly.

Make Your Important Documents Accessible

One danger of backpacking is that your bag can become a black hole. The last thing you need is to lose your passport or visa papers in the vast expanse of your bag. A solid way to avoid this is to pack your bag with important documents tucked away in an easily accessible pocket or at the top of your pack. You could also keep them in your day pack, which is often easiest to wear on the front of your body so you can grab them quickly without taking off your backpack . It looks silly, but it takes some of the load off your back and balances you out.

A secondary safekeeping option includes having digital copies on your phone or stored through a secure cloud service. This doesn't replace needing your documents on your person while you travel, though it may serve in a pinch if you lose those and your backup hard copies.

Measure Twice

When buying a traveling pack, make sure its dimensions are suitable for the airlines or other transportation options you plan on taking. That said, it's imperative to measure twice anyway — once when the pack is empty and again when it is filled. Just because it will fit in the bag checker for Ryanair when it's empty doesn't mean a fully stuffed bag will fit when you're trying to board. Save yourself some money and always measure twice.

If your bag exceeds the dimension limits, there are a few things you can do. You can either unload a few extraneous items or repack the bag. By rearranging and fitting items more tightly (rolled clothes are the way to go), you can change how your stuff sits in the bag. This can help morph the dimensions of the pack in a way that could make it fit the parameters of your transportation of choice.

Travel During The Shoulder Or Off-Season

Ordinarily, folks like to backpack Europe because getting around is easier, but they tend to do it also for budgetary reasons. Traveling during peak tourist season often presents better weather, which comes with increased prices. Backpacking in the dead of summer can also be much more challenging when sweat-drenched. While washing your clothes is a reasonable task when backpacking, it can be harder to properly de-stink your pack. If you're schlepping a giant bag through 100-degree weather in Greece, your backpack will smell terrible.

But journeying during the shoulder, mid-season, or off-season means saving money and not navigating overly crowded streets with a giant backpack. Besides avoiding crowds, touring during the off-season helps to prevent high humidity and sweltering days. And though backpacking Europe in summer is the rom-com trope, you'll generally be a lot more comfortable, even though it might be a bit rainy or colder.

Here's the thing about backpacking Europe: it's not for overpackers. You need to pack light, minimally, and with intention, and your back will thank you. It's all about selecting versatile pieces — like a beach cover-up that could also be used as part of an outfit, and understanding that you can do laundry while you travel. This also serves as a terrific opportunity to practice your packing skills and explore travel-friendly products, like soap sheets instead of liquid body wash.

Another way to keep things light is to pack exactly what you need with your schedule in mind. So, perhaps, pack five pairs of underwear and wash them as you go or every four days. Give your clothes the same treatment, like two pairs of pants, a few shirts, and at least one or two top layers like a cardigan. You can also wear things that will otherwise weigh you down as you travel. For example, wearing your hiking shoes instead of carrying them will reduce your load by at least 2 to 3 pounds.

Choose The Accommodations You Want, Not Those That Fit The Norm

Just because the notion of backpacking often elicits thoughts of hostels doesn't mean you have to stay in one. If you prefer hotels, that's great, but if you'd rather mix various lodging types — micro hotels, hostels, homestays, and traditional hotels — go for it. You can even save money if you aren't staying in a 12-person dormitory-style hostel. Hostels aren't always the cheapest option anymore, especially if you are planning a trip at the last minute.

Plus, like bed and breakfasts, some hostels include a very extrovert-friendly environment, which you might not like. That can be avoided if you find a hostel with private rooms, but it's okay to look elsewhere if you want to spend time on your own or just with your travel companions. If the thought of walking into a luxury hotel with a massive backpack makes you feel out of place, think nothing of it. You don't need a Louis Vuitton trunk to stay somewhere nice; own your dedication to traveling light.

Always Be Aware

Unfortunately, your massive backpack will be a dead giveaway that you're a tourist no matter where you go. That makes you a prime target for thieves, and given the size of your pack, you may not notice if someone slices into it while walking by and takes something. That's why it's crucial to be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables in inaccessible spots. Even the best backpacking bags aren't necessarily knife-proof.

Since you can't see everything at all times, it's best to keep your most important items like money and passport in an interior pocket that will be harder for a thief to access. Alternatively, consider a pouch for your bag if you don't have appropriately sized built-in pockets for your valuables. You can also use RFID wallets to prevent digital theft of your credit or debit card numbers to further protect yourself. With these safeguards, you can backpack through Europe in peace. 

Try To Arrive At A New Place In The Daytime

Depending on your location in Europe, public transportation can sometimes have wonky hours; fortunately, it is easier to get around on foot during the daytime. So, strive to reach a new destination during the day, and you'll have time to orient yourself and get where you need to go more efficiently. Taking this advice also helps delay any riffraff that might crop up at night. That isn't to say that pickpockets and thieves don't operate during the day — daylight helps protect you from them; they tend to work more efficiently at night when there are fewer people and less light to give them away.

But since life always throws curveballs, be vigilant when you get somewhere after dark, particularly in the late night hours. While it might be pricier than taking public transportation, sometimes taking a cab or Uber to your hotel is enough to make you feel more secure in your new destination.

Plan For Similar Climates

Logistically, it's important to plan a backpacking trip that ideally involves similar outfit types. If the places you are visiting have identical temperatures and weather, you won't have to worry about packing lots of different clothing items. Yes, that means you'll have many photos of yourself wearing the same outfits in different places, but that's just one of the cons of backpacking.

Planning to visit countries with similar climates also makes the travel portion of your trip less complicated. If you aren't traversing the entire continent during your backpacking journey, you will save a lot of commuting time and the hassle of juggling wildly different microclimates. This planning step will be easier in the summer since the temperatures across the continent vary much less than during the colder months. That's especially true for places like Norway, Iceland, Finland, and other countries known for getting much colder.

Leave Some Room For Souvenirs

Chances are, you'll want to buy something somewhere along the way. If you're on the go for weeks at a time, there's bound to be an item or two that catches your eye. So leave a little bit of room for a souvenir you'll find along the way. While you could always ship something home, it's expensive and could easily get lost.

One of the best ways to pack with a plan is to select items you'll use up along the way. From soap sheets for laundry and toothpaste tabs to snacks and travel-friendly products, these create a little more space in your pack as you go. If you want to really go for the ultimate space-making hack, you can also pack old socks and underwear that may need to be thrown out at some point on your trip. An odd tip, yes. But trust that it's a good standby.

Read the original article on Explore .

The best packing cubes to save space and keep you organized

These travel cubes will keep your suitcase in order, whether you’re going on a short getaway or a round-the-world adventure.

Whether you’re packing for a weekend getaway or planning an around-the-world adventure, packing cubes can help streamline the packing process. Packing cubes are bags that come in different sizes in a set. They can help organize clothing and save room in your suitcase. Frequent traveler Kayli King uses packing bags daily to keep clothes organized in her van while traveling. “Honestly, after traveling so long, I can’t imagine not using them,” she says.  

After talking to King, we compared packing bags, looking for durable travel cubes with functional designs and a wide variety of sizes. Our top overall pick is the Gonex Compression Packing Cubes. Compression zippers, handles, and a low price tag make this set the best all around.

Our picks for the best packing cubes for travel

The best packing cubes for travel, best overall: gonex compression packing cubes.

Buy it now on   Amazon

Why we like it:   The Gonex Compression Packing Cubes are our choice for the best overall packing cubes. Despite being one of the more affordable travel cube sets on this list, these compression bags have plenty of features, including ripstop nylon, reinforced seams, and handles. They compress via double zippers that pull the edges of the travel packing bag together. The packing cubes can hold everything from socks to jackets and are designed to fit together like puzzle pieces. They’re also available in over 10 colors.

Keep in mind:   These packing cubes unzip only halfway, so you have to stuff your clothes inside rather than lay them flat. Some reviewers note that the compression zippers are difficult for people with arthritis or reduced mobility.

Product details: Size: 4-piece set: 9.8 x 7.5 x 3.54 inches (small), 11.8 x 8.9 x 3.54 inches (medium), 14.5 x 10.6 x 3.54 inches (large), and 17.3 x 13 x 3.54 inches (extra large) | Material:   Ripstop nylon | Weight: 12 ounces (set)  

Best for traveling light: Eagle Creek Pack-It Isolate Cube Set  

Buy it now at   Backcountry

Why we like it: At 4.2 ounces, the Eagle Creek Pack-It Isolate Cube Set is half the weight of other packing cubes on this list, but they’re far from flimsy. They’re made of ripstop polyester and have “self-repairing” zippers—if a gap opens in the chain, you can slide one of the zippers over it to close it. Eagle Creek also offers a warranty that covers fabric tears and zippers. Because they’re lightweight and sturdy, these travel cubes are great for hikers and campers who want to organize their backpacks.  

Keep in mind: The set includes only three smaller-sized travel cubes. While great for backpacks and carry-ons, you may want bigger packing cubes for checked luggage.

Product details: Size:   3-piece set: 4.5 x 7.5 x 2.5 inches (extra small), 7.25 x 10 x 3.25 inches (small), and 10 x 14.25 x 3.25 inches (medium) | Material:   Ripstop polyester | Weight:   4.2 ounces (set)  

Best for overpackers: REI Co-op Expandable Packing Cube Set

Buy it now at   REI

Why we like it:   The packing cubes in the REI Co-op Expandable Packing Cube Set are the opposite of compression bags. Each cube has a second zipper that, when unzipped, increases its width to six inches—double the size of other packing bags on this list. They’re designed to last with ripstop polyester treated with a durable water-repellent (DWR) finish. The packing cubes also meet the Bluesign criteria, the highest environmental standard for sustainable textile manufacturing.

Keep in mind:   REI Co-op recently updated its packing cubes, and some buyers believe the quality has suffered as a result. Third-party reviews mention thin material, unreinforced zippers, and mesh that snags.

Product details: Size:   3-piece set: 8 x 6 x 3 inches (small), 12 x 8 x 3 inches (medium), and 14.5 x 10.5 x 3 inches (large) | Material:   Ripstop nylon, polyester mesh | Weight: 8.3 ounce (set)  

Best upcycled option: Cotopaxi Cubo Packing Cube Bundle

Why we like it:   The brightly colored Cotopaxi Cubo Packing Cube Bundle is an upcycled option you can feel good about. The packing bags are made of 100-percent repurposed nylon and mesh. Kayli King likes that the mesh panels allow your things to air out and that you can hang them up by their handles.

Cotopaxi’s sustainability initiatives extend beyond its packing cubes. The company says that 94 percent of its products use repurposed, recycled, or responsible materials. They also offer programs to repair items and trade them in to avoid landfills.

Keep in mind:   Despite its competitive price, this bundle comes with only three packing cubes. The size range is small compared to other packing cube sets. However, King prefers this set for longer trips.

Product details: Size: 3-piece set: 7 x 8 x 2 inches (2-liter bag), 6 x 11.5 x 3 inches (3-liter bag), 10 x 11.5 x 5 inches (10-liter bag) | Material:   100 percent repurposed nylon and mesh | Weight: 9 ounces (set)

Best style: Calpak Packing Cubes Set

Buy it now at   Calpak

Why we like it:   While many packing cubes seem to favor function over fashion, the Calpak Packing Cubes Set balances both. The packing bags come in over 20 colors, with patterns like “cheetah” and “lime viper.” They’re durable, with thick polyester sides and mesh covers that let you see inside. Each packing cube has a zippered pocket for smaller essentials and an ID tag to write down the contents. If five travel cubes aren’t enough, you can buy additional Calpak travel organizers, like shoe bags and laptop totes.

Keep in mind:   The Calpak Packing Cube set is by far the heaviest and most expensive option on this list. You may want lighter packing cubes if you travel with just a carry-on or are concerned about overweight luggage.

Product details: Size:   5-piece set: 13 x 10 x 1.5 inches (envelope), 12 x 8.8 x 3 inches (small x 2), 5 x 11 x 3 inches (medium), 17 x 12 x 3 inches (large) | Material: Polyester and mesh | Weight: 1 pound, 12.8 ounces (set)  

Best set: Tripped Checked Bag Set

Why we like it:   The Tripped Checked Bag Set has a travel cube for almost every packing need. The set includes seven packing bags, including two extra large sizes, a slim cube, a shoe bag, and a roll-top laundry bag. Mix and match the travel cubes to fit your suitcase and packing needs. Most of the packing cubes in the Checked Bag Set also have a compression feature. Plus, they come in a wide range of colors and an illustrated set featuring national parks.  

Keep in mind:   While the packing cubes are made from a ripstop blend, reviewers mention that the material and stitching feel thin and flimsy. Some of the travel cubes don’t unzip all the way, making packing more difficult.

Product details: Size: 6-piece set: 12.5 x 6.5 x 6.5 inches (shoe bag), 12.5 x 4.5 x 3 inches (slim cube), 21 x 11.5 x 0.1 inches (laundry bag), 10 x 7 x 4 inches (small), 14 x 10 x 4 inches (large), 16 x 12 x 4 inches (extra large x 2) | Material:   Ripstop nylon-polyester blend | Weight:   15.5 ounces (set)  

Best budget: Veken 6 Set Packing Cubes

Why we like it: The Veken 6 Set Packing Cubes come with six packing cubes, including a laundry bag and a shoe bag. They cost less than half the price of most other packing bag sets on this list. The low price doesn’t mean low quality, though. The Veken 6 Set Packing Cubes are made of thick polyester, with sturdy zippers and mesh panels to help keep clothes fresh. Plus, they come in 12 colors.  

Keep in mind: The laundry and shoe bags are small. The polyester is not ripstop and can melt if dried on high heat.

Product details: Size: 6-piece set: 4.7 x 17 inches (shoe bag), 14 x 20 inches (laundry bag), 11 x 6.75 x 4 inches (small), 13.75 x 9.75 x 4 inches (medium), 13.75 x 12.75 x 4 inches (large), 17.5 x 12.15 x 5 inches (extra large) | Material:   Polyester | Weight:   10.4 ounces (set)  

How we chose the best travel packing cubes

We weighed the following qualities when curating the best packing cubes:

Third-party reviews:   We considered reviews from sources other than company websites and spoke with seasoned travelers to find out what they liked.  

Brand reputation: Anything you use for traveling should be functional, long-lasting, and, preferably, good for the planet. We looked for brands that value high-quality gear and sustainability.

Quality of material:   We chose travel cubes that were made to last, with durable materials like ripstop nylon and polyester, reinforced seams, and strong zippers.

Size range: Different-sized packing bags make for an easier packing experience. We chose packing cube sets in a range of sizes, from extra small to extra large.

Compression options: Some packing cube brands offer compression bags, which can be a nice feature if you’re tight on space.  

Tips for buying packing bags

Here’s what to consider when picking your own packing cubes:

Brand reputation  

Choose a trusted brand with a proven reputation. Brands with zipper and fabric warranties or repair programs will also help you get as many vacations as possible with your travel organizers.

If you only use carry-ons or smaller luggage, choose a packing cube set with fewer, smaller travel cubes. If you prefer to use checked luggage, go for a packing cube set with more travel cubes and bigger sizes.  

If you travel with just a carry-on or want to use packing cubes for hiking, choose an ultralight packing cube set. Every ounce counts when packing light, and some travel cube sets are nearly 1.5 pounds lighter than others.

Packing cubes are typically made of polyester or nylon, both strong synthetic fabrics. If you need something even more durable, look for ripstop nylon or polyester, which has extra threads to prevent tears from becoming bigger.

Some brands offer compression bags, which can save space. However, King finds that compressed bags can be awkwardly shaped, making them harder to fit together in your suitcase. If you are a heavy packer, travel cubes for shoes or laundry can help keep the rest of your luggage clean.

Frequently asked questions

Are packing cubes worth it?

Packing cubes can help save space in your suitcase and improve organization, reducing stress while traveling.

Does TSA allow packing cubes?

Packing cubes are TSA-approved, provided everything inside is within the regulations. Check with your airline on what is allowed in carry-on and checked bags.

How many packing cubes do you need for a suitcase?

How many packing cubes you need depends on the length of your trip and the size of your suitcase. Four to six packing cubes is a great starting point. You can adjust the number as needed.

How much does a packing cube cost?

The packing cube sets recommended here cost between 20 and 70 dollars. Some companies may sell individual packing cubes for less.

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Kate Abnett covers EU climate and energy policy in Brussels, reporting on Europe’s green transition and how climate change is affecting people and ecosystems across the EU. Other areas of coverage include international climate diplomacy. Before joining Reuters, Kate covered emissions and energy markets for Argus Media in London. She is part of the teams whose reporting on Europe’s energy crisis won two Reuters journalist of the year awards in 2022.

Indonesia, the world's biggest sugar importer, plans to boost sugarcane planting in its eastern region of Papua, aiming to cut imports and develop a sugar-based industry, including producing bioethanol, a cabinet minister said on Monday.

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What fliers need to know about new refund rules for airlines

Starting in about six months, u.s. airlines will have to offer customers cash refunds before vouchers.

New federal rules for airlines will go into effect later this year, giving travelers a better picture of the full cost of flights before they book — and getting them an easier refund if things go awry.

After a process that lasted more than a year, the Biden administration announced the rules on passenger protections Wednesday.

“This is a big day for America’s flying public,” Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said in a news conference at Reagan National Airport.

While the trade group Airlines for America said its members “abide by — and frequently exceed — DOT regulations regarding consumer protections,” consumer advocates praised the administration’s move.

“These rules are not only critical but also common sense,” said William McGee, senior fellow for aviation and travel at the American Economic Liberties Project, who spoke at Wednesday’s event.

Most new rules go into effect in the fall

At the event Wednesday, Buttigieg said that “the bulk of these protections” will go into effect in about six months. Others will start in a year.

That means refund rules that get customers automatic cash refunds when airlines cancel or significantly change flights won’t be in place during the busy summer travel season. But they should be set in time for the Thanksgiving and winter holiday season rush.

Buttigieg said that the department expects airlines to take some time to develop the processes to return cash to travelers, but added that he doesn’t want them to drag their feet.

“They don’t have to wait the number of months that it’ll technically take for this to go into effect,” Buttigieg said Wednesday. “They could and should be doing this right now.”

You should get refunds without having to ask

Instead of first offering a voucher or credit, airlines “must automatically issue refunds without passengers having to explicitly request them or jump through hoops,” the Transportation Department says. The refunds need to be issued within seven business days for credit card purchases and 20 calendar days when bought through other methods.

However a traveler originally paid is the way the refund needs to be issued, the rule says, whether that’s by credit card or airline miles . Other types of compensation are allowed only if a passenger chooses one of those alternatives.

“No more defaulting to vouchers or credits when consumers may not even realize that they were entitled to cash,” Buttigieg said.

You can still choose to be rebooked

If travelers’ flights have been canceled or significantly changed, they can still continue with their trip. Passengers are only eligible for a refund if they have declined to accept alternative transportation.

Airlines will have to pay for delayed bags and broken WiFi

There are many ways for a trip to go awry, and the new rules cover more than just a late or canceled flight.

If a checked bag isn’t delivered within 12 hours of a domestic flight arriving at the gate, or within 15 to 30 hours of an international flight arriving, depending on how long that flight is, passengers will be entitled to a refund of their checked-bag fee. They will need to file a mishandled baggage report.

Refunds will also be given if passengers pay for a service such as WiFi, seat selection or in-flight entertainment and the airline fails to provide.

‘Significant’ changes will be the same for all airlines

Automatic cash refunds are due to passengers if their flight experiences a “significant change.” But what does that mean? Previously, the definition could vary from airline to airline.

The new rules provide some consistency. A change is considered significant if a departure or arrival is different by more than three hours for domestic flights or six hours for international trips.

Other changes considered significant: the departure or arrival is from a different airport; there are more connections; passengers are downgraded to a lower class; or service or flights are on planes that are less accessible for a person with a disability.

No more hidden fees for bags and seat selection

The rule on extra fees — what the Biden administration refers to as “surprise junk fees in air travel” — will require airlines and online travel booking sites to disclose up front the fees for a checked bag, carry-on bag, reservation change and reservation cancellation. Those fees must be clearly noted and not shown through a hyperlink, the rule says.

Consumers must also be informed that they don’t have to pay for a seat assignment to travel and that a seat will be provided without an additional price.

“Healthy competition requires that, as a consumer, you comparison shop, which means knowing the real price of a trip before and not after you buy,” Buttigieg said. “Airlines will now be required to show you these costs up front, so you have all the information you need to decide what travel option is best for you.”

Travelers can either search without providing their personal information to see standard fees or, after entering their information, see more tailored fees that might apply given their military status, frequent-flier membership or credit card use.

“The final rule puts an end to the bait-and-switch tactics some airlines use to disguise the true cost of discounted flights,” the Transportation Department said in a news release. “Prior to the rule, some airlines were offering deceptive discounts that consumers may have believed applied to the full fare that was being advertised but only applied to a small portion of the ticket price.”

You will still have to report complaints

Buttigieg said the main way for the department to find out about a violation of the rules is when people submit complaints through the site flightrights.gov . But he said he hopes that by making refunds automatic, there will be less need for complaints — and more flexibility for employees to perform audits or spot-checks of airline compliance.

Europe-style compensation is still not in the rules

Some travelers heading to or from Europe who experience delays under certain circumstances are entitled to compensation worth more than $600. That kind of system does not exist for domestic flights in the United States, but Buttigieg said it is on the agenda.

“On compensation, we continue to develop that — and to be clear, with this rule on the books, that does not stop or slow the progress that we’re driving in terms of a compensation rule,” he said.

More on air travel

Leave flying to the pros: Think you could land a plane in an emergency? Experts say you’re wrong . Here’s what you should actually do if something goes awry during a flight .

Pet peeves: Why do “gate lice” line up early for a flight ? Psychologists explained for us. Another move that annoys airline workers: abusing the flight attendant call button . For more on how to behave on a flight, check out our 52 definitive rules of flying .

Plane mess: Stories about extremely disgusting airplanes have been grossing out travelers. The question of plane cleanups became the subject of a recent debate after a flight attendant allegedly told a pregnant passenger to pick up the popcorn spilled by her toddler.

Frequent flying: Airline status isn’t what it used to be, but at least there are some good movies and TV shows to watch in the air. And somewhere out there, experts are trying to make airline food taste good.

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Travelers Swear by These Lightweight Crossbody Bags for Staying Organized, and Prices Start at $10

Including sling styles, belt bags, and more.

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Packing for an upcoming vacation typically means picking out the best travel-ready clothing that offers comfort and versatility, making room in your luggage for your most supportive walking shoes , and adding in other accessories. But just as important as planning out your outfits is having a reliable bag that can take you from the airport to the hotel and beyond. Crossbody bags are often a go-to, particularly for active vacations, since they keep your valuables close and let you comfortably move around — and we found so many options hiding for under $20.

With prices so low, now is an ideal time to add some new crossbody styles to your closet. Walmart’s handbag section includes sling bags with multiple pockets to keep your belongings organized and easily accessible, along with belt bags that can be worn a variety of ways and are comparable to versions that are triple the price. Keep reading for more lightweight and compact yet spacious bags worth grabbing starting at just $10. 

No Boundaries Hands-Free Sling Bag

A crossbody bag like this No Boundaries sling style lets you carry everything you need for the day, rather than a bulky bag that will weigh you down or cause shoulder pain. It features two exterior pockets in addition to the main compartment, so you can easily access items like a small wallet or your cell phone. The adjustable strap helps you find your ideal fit, and shoppers shared that the hands-free style is perfect for travel, hiking, and more. 

Woornigojin Crossbody Belt Bag

Shoppers say this $10 belt bag is so similar to a popular style that’s more than triple the price, so you can grab it in multiple colors. It can be worn around your waist or across your chest thanks to an adjustable strap, and it’s waterproof to keep your valuables protected in any weather conditions. One reviewer called it perfect for vacation thanks to compartments that hold and organize cards, keys, lip balm, your phone, and more. 

Vbiger Crossbody Bag

For a more traditional crossbody bag , grab this one for just $13. It’s made with waterproof, lightweight material so it’s comfortable to carry around all day and has 10 different compartments for holding all of your essentials — including its main section that’s big enough to hold a tablet. One customer who has owned the durable bag for more than two years said it’s held up through rain, snow, and extreme heat, while another person noted that it’s very roomy.

Reebok Cosmos Crossbody Sling Bag

If you walk a lot, whether on vacation or when you’re local, consider this sling bag that’s made for active lifestyles. It has multiple pockets to hold small items and an adjustable strap that lets you use it as a crossbody over your chest or unzipped and worn with a thinner strap on each shoulder. One reviewer noted that it’s lightweight and great for travel, while another said that it has plenty of room despite its size.

Almusen Crossbody Bag

Make air travel easier with this bag that’s designed with pockets to help you quickly access your passport, tickets, phone, and more. The nylon fabric makes it completely waterproof, and one shopper said that the wide strap adds comfort for all-day use. They also highlighted that it’s roomy and can hold a lot, but it doesn’t feel huge or bulky. Grab it while it’s on sale for $14 in navy, black, red, or purple for $16.

Keep reading for even more crossbody bags that customers raved over for their travel-friendly designs.

Tinyat Crossbody Fanny Pack

Suptree crossbody sling bag with usb charging port, athletic works crossbody sling bag.

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