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Finding the best travel backpacks is the first step before the great adventure begins. Whether you’re jetting off on a short break or gearing up for a multi-country backpacking trip, your backpack is the piece of kit you will rely on the most. A portable home, wardrobe, office and sometimes even your seat on the floor of a crowded train station – backpacks are meant to go through wear and tear so we are here to help you find one that will last.
The best travel backpacks combine smart organisation, comfort, and durability with a size and style that fits your type of adventure. We also have a guide on the best women’s backpacks if you are looking for one to better fit your frame. Here are our pick of packs with adjustable harnesses to rugged duffels built for unpredictable weather, as the best bags are designed to move with you—whether that’s through remote mountain trails or busy airport terminals.
The Best Travel Backpacks at a Glance
- Best for Long Travel: Osprey Unisex Aether Plus 70 – Built for big adventures with outstanding comfort and custom fit.
- Best for Treks and long Travel (Women): Osprey Women’s Aura AG LT 65 – Outstanding comfort and ventilation for long treks.
- Best for Short Treks (Men): Gregory Men’s Zulu 35 – A well-ventilated, supportive backpack for long hikes.
- Best Overall (Women): Osprey Women’s Fairview 70 Backpack – A spacious, carry-friendly pack with a detachable daypack.
- Best Carry-on Backpack (Men): Osprey Men’s Farpoint 40 Backpack – A travel-friendly carry-on with excellent comfort and storage.
- Best Carry-on Backpack (Women): Osprey Fairview 40 Women’s Travel Backpack – A carry-on that is suitcase opening
- Best Budget (Women): Mountain Warehouse Traveller 60 + 20L – Affordable and functional with detachable daypack.
- Best for City Travel: The North Face Groundwork Backpack – Compact, practical, and ideal for urban adventures.
- Best Weatherproof Option: Patagonia Black Hole 40L – A rugged, water-resistant duffel for any terrain.
Oh yeah, another thing. Overpacking can be tempting, it has happened to the best of us. However, in reality, most travellers do just fine with a bag between 40–70L. That sweet spot gives you enough room for essentials without being bulky or hard to carry. Many of the top-rated options also come with detachable daypacks, compression straps, and breathable back panels to keep you cool on the go.
In this guide, we’ve rounded up the top travel backpacks across key categories—from best overall and budget picks to 40L women’s backpacks and city-ready bags. Each one has been chosen based on performance, comfort, and versatility—so wherever you’re headed, there’s a pack to match your journey.
Best Travel Backpacks
Built for serious trekkers and backpackers, the Osprey Aether Plus 70 is a top-tier option for extended travel and remote expeditions. With a generous 70L capacity and high levels of adjustability, it offers both carrying comfort and load stability on even the most rugged routes. Its premium materials and detailed construction make it a standout for those carrying heavier gear over long distances.
This pack’s AirScape™ backpanel promotes airflow while keeping the load close to your body, and the Fit-On-The-Fly™ harness and hipbelt allow you to personalise the fit for all-day comfort. A removable lid converts into a daypack for short excursions, and the numerous pockets, access points, and compression straps keep your gear organised and secure.
Key Specs:
Adjustable AirScape™ backpanel
Custom Fit-On-The-Fly™ hipbelt and harness
Removable top lid converts into a daypack
Zipped sleeping bag compartment with divider
Integrated raincover included
The Aura AG LT 65 is an outstanding women’s backpack designed for comfort and ventilation during extended treks. Its AntiGravity™ suspension system distributes weight evenly and offers superb airflow, making it a reliable choice for warm climates or multi-day hikes with a full load.
The streamlined design sheds unnecessary extras without compromising on functionality. With plenty of thoughtful touches like a Fit-On-The-Fly™ hipbelt and removable sleeping pad straps, this pack is an ideal balance between simplicity and long-haul comfort.
Key Specs:
AntiGravity™ backpanel for ventilation
Fit-On-The-Fly™ harness and hipbelt
Zipped sleeping bag compartment
Removable sleeping pad straps
Integrated raincover made with PFAS-free DWR
Ideal for day hikes or minimalist overnight treks, the Gregory Zulu 35 is a compact, highly ventilated rucksack with a dynamic suspension system. The Free Float backpanel flexes with your body’s movement, reducing fatigue and keeping your back cool, even on hot trails.
Despite its streamlined size, the Zulu offers ample storage with intuitive access points, including a U-zip main opening, top stash pocket, and large mesh side pockets. It’s a solid choice for those wanting a technical pack with all-day comfort and trail-ready features.
Key Specs:
Free Float suspension system
3D comfort cradle hipbelt
U-Zip main compartment opening
Zippered hipbelt and top pockets
Sunglass QuickStow system
The Fairview 70 is built for female travellers who want one pack that does it all—long-distance trips, city hopping, and off-grid exploration. Its women-specific fit offers excellent support, and the detachable daypack adds extra flexibility for short trips or sightseeing.
Despite its large capacity, the Fairview is surprisingly easy to manage. The large panel zip access makes packing a breeze, while lockable zippers and internal organisation pockets help keep everything secure and tidy on the move.
Key Specs:
Adjustable AirScape™ backpanel
Detachable 13L daypack with laptop sleeve
Lockable zip access to main compartment
Ventilated mesh harness and hipbelt
StraightJacket compression straps
Compact and airline-ready, the Osprey Farpoint 40 is one of the best carry-on travel backpacks for men. It balances sleek, minimalist design with smart storage, including a padded tech compartment and internal compression straps for tidy packing.
Its stowaway back system is ideal for switching between transport modes, and it meets most EU carry-on size limits. Whether you’re heading out for a weekend city break or hopping between countries, the Farpoint 40 is a versatile and durable choice.
Key Specs:
Stowable AirScape™ backpanel and harness
Padded laptop compartment
Lockable zippers for security
Meets carry-on size requirements
External and internal organisation pockets
This Osprey 40L backpack is one of the best travel-friendly backpacks for women. It features a women-specific fit, excellent ventilation, and a carry-on-compliant size. The Osprey Fairview 40 Women’s Travel Backpack is a much loved pack. It’s so practical and very well thought out that you will think, how did I travel before this bag. If you take lots of flights, city breaks or just want your luggage on board a flight the Fairview 40L backpack is top notch. It is great for summer travel or to hot climates as the space is limited but your load will be light. If you are going to a colder climate, or plan on going hiking or need more versatility, a 40L backpack may be on the tighter side.
If you are a looking for a backpack for anywhere between a weekend break to a month or two this is an exceptional pack. It opens like a suitcase and is easy to pack and unpack. There are adjustable features that make is customisable and comfortable as well as a laptop sleeve inside to keep everything secure. It’s a great value pack and we highly recommend it.
Key specs:
Adjustable AirScape Backpanel
Stretch-mesh hipbelt pocket
Multiple organisation pockets
Straightjacket compression
Direct access laptop sleeve
Offering incredible value, the Traveller 60 + 20L rucksack is ideal for women who want a budget-friendly option without compromising on key travel features. Its two-piece design includes a spacious main pack and a detachable daypack, making it perfect for travel flexibility.
The adjustable back system and female-specific fit ensure comfort across different body types, while handy extras like compression straps, rain cover, and internal compartments keep everything in check during your journey.
Key Specs:
Adjustable back system
Divisible 60L main compartment with bottom access
Detachable 20L daypack with organiser pocket
Internal pocket in the main rucksack
Integrated rain cover included
Perfect for urban adventures, commutes, and campus life, the Groundwork backpack is compact, lightweight, and highly organised. It’s made with durable recycled materials and features The North Face’s certified FlexVent™ suspension system for maximum comfort and back support.
With its padded laptop sleeve, bungee system, and ample storage, it’s easy to carry everything from your devices to a change of clothes. Plus, it stands up on its own—making loading and unloading effortless on the go.
Key Specs:
FlexVent™ suspension with breathable mesh
Padded laptop sleeve (fits up to 13″)
Stands up on its own for easy packing
Internal organiser with tablet sleeve and key fob
Durable non-PFC DWR finish
Compact yet rugged, the Patagonia Black Hole Duffel 40L is designed for travellers who need a durable and lightweight bag. Made from 100% recycled polyester ripstop with a TPU-film laminate, it resists abrasions and repels water, making it an excellent pack for unpredictable conditions. The padded, removable shoulder straps provide a comfortable carry option, while reinforced haul handles ensure durability. A zippered side pocket offers quick access to essentials, and an internal mesh compartment helps with organisation. When not in use, this duffel conveniently stuffs into its own pocket for easy storage. Pretty practical right?
Key Specs:
40-litre capacity
Made from 100% recycled materials
Water- and abrasion-resistant polyester ripstop
Padded, removable shoulder straps for versatile carrying
Compact storage within its own pocket
Best Travel Backpacks Accessories and Essentials
Compact, effective, and ideal for travellers who prefer hand-washing or want to use their own non-toxic detergent, the Scrubba Wash Bag is amazing for travel.
Whether you’re washing pants and socks daily, doing a full load in your tent, or simply avoiding unreliable laundrettes that shrink your favourite shirt, this lightweight wash bag lets you clean your clothes in just a few minutes. Featuring a flexible internal washboard, it delivers machine-quality results without the bulk. It’s completely sealed to prevent leaks or mess, making it perfect for use in hotel rooms, hostels, and campsites. Ideal for delicate items or for keeping your laundry routine chemical-free and low impact.
Key Specs
Weight 145g
Water capacity 9L
Material lightweight waterproof fabric with flexible washboard
Size pocket-sized when packed
Use ideal for delicates, hand-wash only items, travel laundry
Features leak-proof seal, internal scrubbing surface, skin-friendly use
Extras doubles as a dry bag or organiser
Forget overstuffed backpacks and messy suitcases—these compression packing cubes are an essential upgrade for any backpacker and one up regular packing cubes. Designed with durable, lightweight nylon and sturdy YKK zips, they allow you to save space and stay organised on the move.
The double-zip compression system reduces bulk, while the water-resistant, odour-controlling material keeps clean clothes fresh and separates them from dirty or damp items. With multiple sizes included, they’re perfect for organising everything from clothing to toiletries to tech accessories. A must-have for long-term travel, camping, or fast-moving adventures.
Key Specs
Material lightweight water-resistant nylon with odour control
Compression yes, with dual zips for space saving
Sizes compressed: 10 x 7 x 1.5 in (M), 14 x 10 x 1.5 in (L); expanded: 10 x 7 x 4 in (M), 14 x 10 x 4 in (L)
Extras includes laundry bag (18 x 13.5 in) and packing sac (8.5 x 6.3 in)
Closure YKK zippers with reinforced stitching
Weight ultralight and compact for easy travel
Ideal for clipping items to your backpack these carabiners are strong, reliable, and built to last. The heavy-duty locking carabiner clips are a versatile addition to any backpacker’s gear setup. Whether you’re climbing, securing gear, or just need a dependable clip for hammocks or utility use, these D-shaped carabiners have a12kN load rating. Made from high-quality aviation-grade aluminium, they’re rust-resistant and built for long-term outdoor exposure. Lightweight and compact, they’re an ideal carry for hikers, campers, climbers, or even photographers on the go.
Key Specs
Size 90mm x 48mm
Weight 32g
Material 7075 and 6063 aviation aluminium
Load capacity 12kN (1200kg limit load)
Locking mechanism D-shaped with spring-loaded gate
Finish anti-rust, scratch-resistant coating
Use suitable for hiking, climbing, hammocks, backpacks, utility
This ultra-durable paracord is an outdoor essential with endless practical uses, from rigging up hammocks and washing lines to securing gear or crafting custom accessories. Made from 100% nylon with a seven-core construction, it’s manufactured to strict MIL-SPEC standards for ultimate reliability in the wild. With a 550 lb tensile strength and weather-resistant properties, it’s built to withstand sun, rain, and snow without breaking down.
Key Specs
Type Paracord Type III (550 lb rating)
Material 100% nylon, 7 core yarns, 32-strand sheath
Length 15m (50ft)
Thickness 4mm (5/32 inches)
Strength 550 lb (249 kg) minimum
Durability UV and fade resistant, weatherproof
Use ideal for hammocks, washing lines, gear storage, crafting, emergencies
The Barefoot Backpackers’ guide to finding the best backpack for travel
1. Choose the Right Capacity for You
When it comes to backpack size, there’s no one-size-fits-all, it really depends on how you travel and what you need to bring. For those who like to travel light and keep things simple, a 30–40L pack is often the sweet spot. It’s compact enough to meet most carry-on restrictions while still offering enough room for the essentials. Perfect for city-hopping, weekend breaks, or longer trips where laundry and minimalism go hand in hand.
If you’re looking for a bit more wiggle room, especially for trips with varied climates or added gear, then a 40–60L bag strikes a great balance. This range works well for backpackers heading off on longer journeys without crossing into “lugging-a-suitcase-on-your-back” territory.
Bags in the 60–80L+ category are best suited for specialist trips: think multi-season trekking, expeditions, or travel that requires bulky gear. While they offer loads of space, they’re often too large for carry-on and can become cumbersome if you’re moving around a lot. We recommend only going this big if you know you’ll use every litre.
2. Keep It Lightweight
The lighter the backpack, the easier life on the road becomes. Weight might not be the most glamorous spec to consider, but it has a real impact on comfort and mobility. A lightweight pack means less strain on your shoulders, more freedom to move, and a bigger share of your airline baggage allowance left for what really matters, like clothes, snacks, or that extra pair of sandals.
It’s easy to get drawn in by rugged-looking gear or chunky frames, but unless you’re heading into extreme conditions, keeping it light is the smarter call. Travelling should feel liberating, not like you’re hauling bricks – so opt for something sleek, streamlined, and designed with weight in mind.
3. Prioritise Practicality Over All the Special Add-ons
It’s tempting to fall for flashy features, the fold-out compartments, the magnetic clips, the clever hidden pockets. But once on the road, those extras often get in the way more than they help. What we really need is a backpack that works with us, not one that demands a user manual.
A clean, well-structured design that makes sense is worth far more than a dozen add-ons that look cool but serve no purpose. Every pocket should have a reason for being there. Every strap, zip, and loop should feel obvious. The best backpacks are the ones that quietly do their job, keeping everything in its place without overcomplicating the process.
4. Go for Quality – it’s Worth it
Backpacks take a beating. Whether they’re shoved into overhead lockers, dragged through wet streets, or bouncing along on the back of a scooter, they need to be tough. That’s why build quality matters more than any clever new feature. Materials, stitching, and zippers, these are the unsung heroes of any reliable bag.
There’s no shortage of packs that dazzle with special add-ons, but if the zip breaks after two weeks or the fabric tears in the rain, those extras mean nothing. We always look for weather-resistant fabrics, solid craftsmanship, and components that are built to last. A quality backpack isn’t just about looking good, it’s about staying strong and lasting the test of time.
Best Travel Backpacks: FAQs
What size backpack is best for long-term travel?
If you’re travelling for more than a couple of weeks or heading off-grid, 60–70L is a great size. It gives you enough space for clothing, gear, and a bit of comfort without going overboard. We personally love a 60L backpack as it is the best for most travel and treks. We also have a guide on the best 60L women’s backpacks too.
Can I use a trekking backpack for air travel?
Yes – many trekking backpacks are flight-compatible, but it’s worth checking the dimensions. Some larger packs may need to be checked in, while models like the Osprey Farpoint or Fairview can often be carried on as they are 40L packs. Also another aspect to consider is the straps, many airlines are wary of loose straps so be sure to clip everything securely.
What’s the difference between a travel backpack and a hiking backpack?
Travel backpacks tend to prioritise organisation and ease of access, with features like suitcase-style openings and laptop sleeves. Hiking packs focus on weight distribution, hydration compatibility, and ruggedness for outdoor use.
Is it worth investing in a high-end backpack?
If you travel often or plan to do long-haul trips, a high-quality backpack is worth the investment. Premium packs offer better support, materials, and warranty coverage—plus they’re often more comfortable to wear for long stretches.
At Barefoot Backpackers, we’re passionate about helping you navigate the world with purpose. Our site is a hub for holistic health, conscious travel tips, and sustainable living advice. With every guide, we aim to help you create meaningful adventures while staying true to your values. Our content always comes from real experiences and knowledge that is truly aligned with us.
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