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Don't overlook the humble backpack. A well-organized one can make all the difference when traveling. Whether you're looking for a handy personal item, an all-in-one alternative to a carry-on suitcase or a helpful companion for backpacking and camping, you can't beat the hands-free mobility. Plus, you won't need to worry about rolling your luggage or hauling a large duffel or weekender up a flight of stairs, across a sandy beach or on bustling cobblestone streets.
Our top picks:
1
2
3
4
Best Weekender Travel Backpack
Away F.A.R Convertible Backpack 45L
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5
6
Best Travel Backpack for Backpacking
Osprey Porter 46L Travel Pack
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7
Best Travel Backpack for Business Travel
TUMI Alpha Bravo Search Backpack
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8
9
Best Travel Backpack for Work
Samsonite Silhouette 17 Backpack
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10
The Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab evaluates backpacks both in Lab and with consumer testers for durability and comfort. From the best laptop backpacks and backpacks for college students to the best duffels and daypacks, we've seen it all. To find the best travel backpacks, we test everything from tear strength to strap strength and abrasion resistance to make sure the bag can stand up to rough handling for years to come. We also work with consumer testers who try them out on various trips under real-world conditions. We also consider the amount of padding in the straps, useful extras and overall weight to find the most comfortable backpacks.
Our picks are top performers from testing along with new styles that have exciting features and rave reviews. Check out our top travel backpack picks below and keep reading to learn all of our ultimate backpack shopping tips to find the best pack for you. Pair your new travel backpack with packing cubes and a hard-side suitcase for your next vacation.
1
Best Overall Travel Backpack
Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack
1
Best Overall Travel Backpack
Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack
Pros
- Spacious interior with separated sections
- Straps on all four sides around the perimeter
- Hip and sternum straps help evenly distribute bag weight
Cons
- No luggage sleeve
We were shocked by just how much we could fit inside this travel backpack during our packing tests. In fact, it outperformed multiple carry-on suitcases for its generous capacity and well-designed interior. Similar to hard-side luggage, the bag completely unzips for easy packing and, in this case, features helpful mesh to help separate compartments.
On top of that, we liked the helpful ergonomic features, from the padding along the back to the hip strap and sternum strap, which offer comfort and support. Plus, when testing the laptop sleeve, we found there was room to spare after placing a 16-inch laptop in it. The only note of caution is that the bag doesn't have a luggage sleeve, so if you're hoping to stack it on top of rolling luggage, it may not be the right fit.
Material | TPU-coated polyester with nylon panels |
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Total volume | 35L |
Weight | 3.5 lbs |
Dimensions | 22" x 12" x 10" |
Opening | Clamshell/Front-loading |
Airport compatibility | Carry-on |
Pros
- Organizational pockets, including a waterproof section
- Compression straps for a secure fit
- Fits underneath a seat when flying
Cons
- Not large enough to use as a carry-on replacement
When we surveyed our own editors and staff for their favorite bags, this one from Coofay was a hit for its organizational pockets and personal-item-friendly size. One staffer told us, "This backpack can definitely fit a week of clothing if rolled properly."
Like many popular travel backpacks, this one unzips like a suitcase for easy packing and has tons of small compartments to help keep your belongings in order. We particularly appreciate the compression straps on the side, allowing you to pack more while keeping the bag within the personal item size limit of most domestic airlines. Plus, there's a wide range of colors to choose from.
Material | Not listed |
---|---|
Total volume | ~18L |
Weight | 2.8 lbs |
Dimensions | 16.5" × 11.8" × 5.9" |
Opening | Clamshell/Front-loading |
Airport Compatibility | Personal item |
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3
Most Versatile Travel Backpack
Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L
3
Most Versatile Travel Backpack
Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L
Pros
- Can access from the top, side or front
- Convertible between 30L, 35L and 45L sizes
- Straps are easily hidden if needed
Cons
- Compatible packing cubes are sold separately
- Pricey
Designed with intention, Peak Design's travel backpack is truly a standout within the industry. While it's hard to find a travel bag that can tackle all sorts of trips, this one manages to do just that. It's truly one-of-a-kind and allows you to access your belongings from the front (like a suitcase), the back (like a top-loading traditional backpack) and the sides.
Compression features allow you to easily convert it from a 30L capacity to a 35L or 45L bag for all your travel needs. The backpack straps can be hidden away to keep it streamlined while using the simple luggage sleeve. The only challenge comes with packing: While the interior is spacious, there aren't too many separate compartments, so if that's important to you, the brand offers a selection of compatible packing cubes, including protective ones for camera equipment.
Material | Nylon |
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Total volume | 30L to 45L |
Weight | 4.5 lbs |
Dimensions | 22" x 13" x 9.5" (30L) to 22" x 13" x 11" (45L) |
Opening | Clamshell/Front-loading and top loading with side access |
Airport compatibility | Carry-on (30L or 35L) |
4
Best Weekender Travel Backpack
Away F.A.R Convertible Backpack 45L
4
Best Weekender Travel Backpack
Away F.A.R Convertible Backpack 45L
Pros
- Compression straps help secure your belongings
- Padded back for comfort
- Easy access laptop compartment
Cons
- Zippers sometimes open up, according to testers
With a massive 45L interior, this bag from Away can hold everything you need for a weekend away, including multiple outfits, toiletries and even an extra pair of shoes. It's the go-to travel backpack for GH's Home & Apparel Reviews Analyst Amanda Constantine, who's brought it on everything from short weekend getaways to longer trips abroad.
Constantine notes, "The straps are comfortable and feel sturdy, and I love that the backpack straps can be tucked away if I'm carrying the bag like a suitcase instead of on my back." In addition, this pack also has all the top-notch organizational features you'd expect from Away, from compression straps to convenient mesh pockets. The caveat? The zippers are a little too easy to open and sometimes have a tendency to come undone.
Material | Recycled polyester |
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Total volume | 45L |
Weight | 3.32 lbs |
Dimensions | 21.7" x 13.6" x 9.5" |
Opening | Clamshell/Front-loading |
Airport compatibility | Carry-on |
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Pros
- Packing cubes included
- Padded straps
- Clamshell opening for easy packing
Cons
- Some reviewers say water bottle does not always stay put
This backpack includes the ultimate organizational system: Three packing cubes, a laptop case, a water bottle/umbrella pocket and a small front pocket. The packing cubes are ideal to keep your clothes compact and wrinkle-free while traveling. We also love the padded straps and side buckles to make sure everything stays in place.
It has a clamshell opening and both sides lie down flat, which makes this backpack easier to pack and organize as you don't have to stuff items in from the top. This pick is ideal as a carry-on for international travel as you can easily pack your clothes and what you'll need on the flight.
Material | Polyester |
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Total volume | ~30L |
Weight | 2.7 lbs |
Dimensions | 18.5" x 12.5" x 9.5" |
Opening | Clamshell/Front-loading |
Airport compatibility | Carry-on |
6
Best Travel Backpack for Backpacking
Osprey Porter 46L Travel Pack
6
Best Travel Backpack for Backpacking
Osprey Porter 46L Travel Pack
Pros
- Very generous carry-on capacity
- Compression straps for a secure fit
- Chest and hip straps provide even weight distribution
Cons
- Unisex style may be too large for women with smaller frames
Finding a good backpacking bag can be a challenge. You'll want a bag that's spacious and supportive enough that it won't cause injury. Luckily, Osprey is known for its ergonomically designed packs, making it a favorite brand amongst some hiking enthusiasts at GH. One GH analyst has even taken the brand's bags on a two-week backpacking trip to Thailand, calling them comfortable and well-designed.
This model comes with a generous 46L capacity and helpful compression straps, both on the exterior and interior, allowing you to bring everything you'll need and then some. Additionally, this bag features the brand's helpful chest and hip straps for support, along with helpful pockets throughout. Take note, however, that it comes in a unisex style, so users accustomed to women-specific packs may find the shoulder straps stiff.
Material | Recycled nylon |
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Volume | 46L |
Weight | 3.3 lbs |
Dimensions | 21.5" X 14" X 9" |
Opening | Front-loading, bucket style opening |
Airline compatibility | Carry-on |
7
Best Travel Backpack for Business Travel
TUMI Alpha Bravo Search Backpack
7
Best Travel Backpack for Business Travel
TUMI Alpha Bravo Search Backpack
Pros
- Warranty and repair service
- Ability to register and track lost bags
- High quality materials for long-term use
Cons
- Top-loading bags aren't as easy to pack
- Expensive price
Carrying a TUMI backpack is a status symbol no matter where you are — the brand is known for its luxury travel products worldwide, particularly for its long-lasting quality and service. Buying a travel product (e.g. a bag or luggage) from the brand typically comes with a five-year warranty and free repairs plus a lifetime registration and tracking service for finding lost bags. Even after five years, you can ask the brand to repair your bag for a small cost.
TUMI's Search Backpack is sleek enough for conferences and work trips, making it great for business travel or everyday use. One GH analyst has used this bag for over 10 years, throughout school and work and on multiple domestic and international flights. While the top-loading configuration isn't as seamless for packing, testers were still impressed by how "surprisingly spacious" and "high quality" it felt.
Material | Ballistic nylon |
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Volume | 32L |
Weight | 3.3 lbs |
Dimensions | 17.0" X 14.0" X 8.3" |
Opening | Top-loading |
Airport compatibility | Personal item |
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8
Best Travel Backpack for Flying
Thule Aion Travel Backpack
8
Best Travel Backpack for Flying
Thule Aion Travel Backpack
Pros
- Top-tested brand
- Thoughtful features for air travel
- Two sizes designed for flying
Cons
- Does not features hip straps
Having the right backpack can make all the difference when going through airport security. This one from Thule, one of our favorite luggage brands, comes equipped with helpful features like a small easy-to-reach pocket for your passport and boarding pass plus a convenient laptop compartment. Within the bag, there's a helpful divider for organization along with other mesh pockets and panels.
The bag also comes in two sizes — 28L and 40L — each of which makes the perfect personal item or carry-on respectively. And if 28L sounds a bit too small, this size expands to 32L to accommodate more essentials. The only caveat is that the 40L version doesn't come with any hip straps, which is rare for a backpack of its size. The brand suggests pairing the bag with the Aion Sling, which slots in easily for support.
Material | Recycled polyester |
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Volume | 28L or 40L |
Weight | 2.7 lbs (28L) and 3.2lbs (40L) |
Dimensions | 11" x 9.1" x 18.5" (28L) and 13" x 9.1" x 20.5" (40L) |
Opening | Clamshell/Front-loading |
Airport compatibility | Personal item (28L) or Carry-on (40L) |
9
Best Travel Backpack for Work
Samsonite Silhouette 17 Backpack
9
Best Travel Backpack for Work
Samsonite Silhouette 17 Backpack
Pros
- Convertible design
- Built-in organizational pockets
- Easy-access padded laptop sleeve
Cons
- Large size can be unideal for everyday use
Ideal when traveling for business or even everyday commuting to work, the Silhouette 17 backpack has all the essentials and then some. In fact, it's designed to replace your carry-on, which can slow you down when on a last-minute business trip. Moreover, Samsonite's soft-side luggage has proven be abrasion-resistant and strong in our tests, staying in great shape, so we are confident in the durability of the brand's similar products.
Beyond the durable nature, it opens up like a hardshell suitcase, complete with functional sections, and has a padded laptop sleeve for easy access. Plus, it easily convert from a backpack to a briefcase or shoulder bag. For longer trips, you can even slide it onto checked luggage instead of maneuvering two suitcases through the airport.
Material | Polyester |
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Total volume | 28L |
Weight | 3.3 lbs |
Dimensions | 20" x 12.5" x 7" |
Opening | Clamshell/Front-loading |
Airport compatibility | Carry-on |
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10
Best Lightweight Travel Backpack
Osprey Daylite Plus Daypack
10
Best Lightweight Travel Backpack
Osprey Daylite Plus Daypack
Pros
- Top performer in lab tests
- Easy-to-use features
- Holds a large load
Cons
- Side pockets may not hold large water bottles
Often used on day hikes for its lightweight design, a daypack can be a great option for those in search of a not-so-heavy travel backpack. And when it comes to the best daypacks, Osprey reigns supreme as the top-performing brand, earning especially high scores for their amazing ease-of-use features and fitting everything in our packing test.
Recent testers have loved that Osprey bags have "lots of compartments" and "comfortable cushioned shoulder straps." Some even highlighted the helpful sternum strap, which keeps the weight evenly distributed, preventing shoulder pain. You can also expect an interior sleeve to fit a laptop or tablet or a hydration reservoir for hikes, plus a slew of pockets in the front including two mesh water bottle pockets.
Material | Nylon |
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Total volume | 20L |
Weight | 1.3 lbs |
Dimensions | 10" x 9" x 18" |
Opening | Top-loading |
Airport compatibility | Personal item |
11
Best Laptop Travel Backpack
Herschel Kaslo Backpack Tech
11
Best Laptop Travel Backpack
Herschel Kaslo Backpack Tech
Pros
- Separate fleece-lined laptop compartment
- Lightweight yet durable
- Sleek design
Cons
- 30L version may be too big to use as a personal item on some planes
- Bulky on petite frames, according to testers
When we tested this laptop backpack, we were surprised by how lightweight yet protective it felt. The detail and care are evident throughout: The bag has reinforced stitching in areas where you'd expect extra tugging like the top handle, straps and luggage sleeve. There's also a separate laptop compartment with a fleece lining to help minimize potential scratches.
One Textiles Lab analyst swears by this bag, using it as both her everyday bag for commuting as well as her go-to travel backpack, especially on business trips when she'll need her laptop handy. In our packing test, we found the 30L capacity large enough to fit a 16-inch laptop plus three to four days of clothes and toiletries. If that’s not the right size for you, it also comes in a 20L capacity for those with more petite frames.
Material | Polyester |
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Total volume | 30L |
Weight | 2.4 lbs |
Dimensions | 18.5" x 12" x 8" |
Opening | Top-loading |
Airport compatibility | Carry-on (30L), Personal item (20L) |
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12
Best Water-Resistant Travel Backpack
patagonia Patagonia Black Hole Pack - 25 L
12
Best Water-Resistant Travel Backpack
patagonia Patagonia Black Hole Pack - 25 L
Pros
- Water resistant materials and zippers
- Durable fabric
- Convenient side water bottle pockets
Cons
- Limited color selection
Whether you're backpacking through a new country or flying to a nearby city, this Patagonia pack is up for the adventure. It's made with polyester that has a durable water-repellent finish to keep all your belongings protected. One tester shared that this bag is the "backpack to end all backpacks" because it's great for all types of vacations and features a sternum strap you can easily adjust to suit your height.
While the 25L capacity may look small, the bag lives up to its "Black Hole" name, fitting much more than you'd expect, especially when you roll your clothes up, or you can opt for the 32L style. Plus, in Lab tests, water rolled right off the main fabric of the bag with ease, so you can rest assured it'll protect your belongings even in unpredictable weather.
Material | Recycled ripstop polyester with polyurethane coating |
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Total volume | 25L |
Weight | 1.41 lbs |
Dimensions | 18.8" x 11" x 5.9" |
Opening | Top-loading |
Airport compatibility | Personal item |
13
Most Comfortable Travel Backpack
Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Backpack
13
Most Comfortable Travel Backpack
Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Backpack
Pros
- Comfortable to wear
- Soft and squishy fabric
- Comes with an interior removable pouch and shoe bag
Cons
- May pill with heavy use
No one wants an uncomfortable backpack, which is why we loved this bag from Dagne Dover. It's made of neoprene fabric, which feels soft and squishy instead of stiff like some other bags. The brand also does not skimp when it comes to details like an interior pocket to hold a water bottle or cell phone and a pouch that can be attached on a leash inside the main compartment to find small stuff quickly.
The main compartment has a laptop sleeve and is large enough for a weekend trip. Plus, it even has a sleek luggage sleeve, slipping easily onto a carry-on suitcase at the airport. Take note: We found that if you’re rough with the bag, the neoprene fabric may pill (though pills can easily be removed with a fabric shaver). This pick comes in small and medium sizes too.
Material | Neoprene |
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Total volume | 20L |
Weight | 2.6 lbs |
Dimensions | 13.25” x 5.25” x 17.5” |
Opening | Top-loading |
Airport compatibility | Personal item |
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How we test travel backpacks
The Good Housekeeping Institute has been testing travel products and backpacks for decades.
Grace Wu
Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab Product Analyst
Grace Wu (she/her) is a product reviews analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute's Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she evaluates fabric-based products using specialized equipment and consumer tester data. Prior to starting at Good Housekeeping in 2022, she earned a master of engineering in materials science and engineering and a bachelor of science in fiber science from Cornell University. While earning her degrees, Grace worked in research laboratories for smart textiles and nanotechnology and held internships at Open Style Lab and Rent the Runway.
Emma Seymour
Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab Senior Analyst
Emma Seymour (she/her) is a senior product analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute's Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she has led testing for luggage, pillows, towels, tampons and more since 2018. She graduated from Cornell University with a bachelor of science in fiber science and apparel design and a minor in gerontology, completing research in the Body Scanner Lab on optimizing activewear for athletic performance.