lightweight travel backpack with wheels

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Home » Gear » Best Backpack With Wheels

14 BEST Backpacks With Wheels: (UPDATED 2024)

The more observant amongst you will probably have noticed that traditional backpacks, like submarines and hamburgers, usually don’t have wheels. But what if they did?! Well a backpacks with wheels would allow users to both carry their baggage on their backs or pull it effortlessly behind them – the best of both worlds!

Sometimes, it’s just not possible to use a wheeled suitcase, while at other times, nothing could be better than shrugging that pack off your shoulders and rolling it behind you. Yes, I have been there.

Well, having a rolling backpack with wheels is ALL about convenience in the ever-changing world of travel. And besides, these days we’re all about the hybrids aren’t we? Hybrid cars, hybrid electronics and hybrid backpacks!  Backpacks with wheels can be an absolute blessing. But which rolling backpack is best for your particular needs?

Well I will tell you. I tried and tested a bunch of them and so I could bring together my round-up of the top 12 backpacks with wheels, providing you with all the details you need to make the right choice!

Quick Answer: The Best Backpacks with Wheels

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• Osprey Fairview Wheeled Travel Pack – Best Overall Backpack With Wheels
• Nomatic Carry on Pro – Best Wheeled Luggage For Digital Nomads
• Hynes Eagle Travel Wheeled Backpack – Best Backpack with Wheels for Adventurers
• Eagle Creek Tarmak XE4 – Best Carry On Backpack with Wheels
• Victorinox Vx Sports Cadet Backpack – Best Wheeled Backpack for Hikers 
• Osprey Farpoint 65 liter – Best Wheeled Backpack for International Travel
• Samsonite Rewind – Best Lightweight Backpack with Wheels
• Karabar Aragon Overnight Wheeled Backpack – Best Wheeled Backpack for Business Travelers

Osprey Fairview 36 Wheeled Travel Pack

• Price: > $300
• > Good for long-term travel
• > Versatile

Hynes Eagle Travel Wheeled Backpack

• Price: > $129
• > Perfect carry on size

Eagle Creek Tarmac XE4

• Price: > $359
• > 4Ibs 14oz
• > Expands to almost double its size

Victorinox Vx Sports Cadet Backpack

• Price: > $182
• > Dedicated laptop sleeve

Osprey Farpoint

• Price: > $320
• > 6.174 lbs (65L version)
• > Available in 80l size

Samsonite Rewind

• Price: > $$$
• > Lightweight backpack on wheels
• > Integrated rain cover

Karabar Aragon Overnight Wheeled Backpack

• Price: > $130
• > Padded laptop compartment
• > Internal divisions to help keep your kit organized

Wheeled backpacks are kind of a niche product and are not for everybody. There is definitely a dedicated and vibrant market for them but there will never become as ubiquitous as conventional backpacks.

Let’s look at the Pros and Cons of wheeled backpacks as a concept, before we get into the nitty gritty of competing the individual packs to one another.

• Versatile – functions as a backpack and a suitcase
• Can carry heavier loads
• Perfect for airports and city streets
• Not suitable for hiking
• Wheels are a point of failure

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Nomatic Carry-On Pro

Want to skip the backpack concept altogether in favor of the best-wheeled luggage on the market? Meet the Nomatic Carry On Pro.

The Carry-On Pro is a fully-featured roller suitcase built with the modern traveler in mind. Minimalist and short-term travelers will appreciate all of the sexy organizational pockets and straps for clothing, including a dedicated electronics compartment dubbed the “tech case”. The tough-as-nails suitcase exterior also features a customizable locking system that will keep out any potential thieves.

This suitcase does require a steep investment, which is the only major drawback I can find. Also, if you are seriously set upon on a backpack suitcase combo then this is not for you.

For me, one of the real stand out elements for us was the organisational features on this bag. Being able to separate each side with zippable mesh allows you to keep items like clean and dirty clothes separate. It also has additional zippable pockets on the front too which came in super useful.

• Perfect carry on size – and lockable for extra security
• Can survive impacts from a sledgehammer – so yes, very durable
• Top of the line silent Hinomoto wheels
• Excellent organizational features
• Too small for multi-week holidays (unless you are a true minimalist).
• Need something bigger? Check out the full-sized  Nomatic Check-In Pro

Is the Nomatic Carry-On Pro for Me?

If you are looking for ONE suitcase that will last you a decade or more there is no better option than the Carry-On Pro on the market right now.

Nomatic has been a major player in the travel gear space for a few years now and we here at the Broke Backpacker are huge fans of the quality products and innovations they are putting out! We have being using these packs for years and have tested them out in all number of situations – in fact this pack performed so well for us in Barcelona that some swine was unable to resist the urge to steal it….

Want to learn more about this badass roller suitcase? Check out my full-length Nomatic Carry-On Pro review .

One of the main reasons you should invest in a backpack with wheels/backpack suitcase combo is for convenience. Well, this backpack takes convenience to a whole new level with the ability to attach a day pack to the front if needed. It’s perfect for backpackers looking to day the weight off their shoulders every now and then.

With this backpack suitcase with wheels, you will have a daypack, backpack, and rolling luggage all in one! The attachable “daypack” (sold separately) is a great design and when utilised is pretty much all you need for a backpacking trip.

A few more great features include a padded top and side handles, compression straps, and a handle that hides away nicely! Storage is pretty good too, there are multiple compartments including a very roomy and spacious main compartment that opens like a suitcase. Osprey makes a few of the best rolling backpacks on the market but this is the best pick.

• Great for long-term travel
• Ability to attach day pack
• Heavy! Over 8 Lbs.
• Not carry-on size

Is the Osprey Fairview 36 for me?

This one feels nice to the touch, the handle feels good to hold and the wheels roll nicely. It’s a delight pack and unpack and after using it for a few months, it was still in ‘good as new shape’. If you want a backpack with wheels that is convenient, comfortable and able to hold up in multiple situations, then you should invest in this backpack.

What I really like about this backpack, is the ability to attach my Osprey day pack; it’s one of the features that really make this bag a great hybrid for backpacker who wants the best backpack with wheels.

This 42 Liter rolling backpack is perfect for international travel, especially digital nomads with the detachable sleeve for a 17 inch laptop. We love how this sleeve can be attached in a number of positions depending on your needs.

Plus, it’s probably the coolest looking backpack with wheels – something I haven’t said since the fourth grade! A few of its awesome features include multiple compartments for all your clothes and other items, the top quick stash pocket, multiple grab handles, and treaded off-road wheels so you can roll this bag on challenging terrain!

I really love how this backpack meets carry on restrictions too. This backpack was designed and created for adventurers, so you know it’s going to last use and abuse for years.

• Perfect carry on size
• Weatherproof and extremely durable
• Tuck Away Wheels Cover
• Tons of pockets and compartments
• Little bit unsteady
• Small wheels

Is the Hynes Eagle Travel Wheeled Backpack for me?

We think this is the most durable backpack with wheels available. It can handle any and all-weather and terrain you throw at it, but it might be overkill if you aren’t going on adventures in South America and Africa!

Get this backpack if you want a sleek, beautiful rolling backpack to keep your things safe. If you’re just doing average urban travel, check out our next recommendation instead!

When our testers got their mitts on this bad boy they absolutely loved the rugged material the bag was made from. Being the adventurers we are we were also impressed by how durable the bag was when exposed to the elements and difficult outdoor terrain. If you’re looking for the ultimate hiking backpack with wheels, this is it.

Osprey Farpoint 65 Wheeled travel pack

One of the larger of the Osprey wheeled range, we’ve chosen the Osprey Farpoint 65 Wheeled travel pack as one of our best-wheeled backpacks for international travel not only for its roominess but also its additional helpful travel-friendly features.

The high clearance level for the slimline wheels makes it possible to roll seamlessly over the majority of surfaces, while this backpack comes not only with comfortable shoulder straps but with a padded hip belt too!

Grab handles on the top and side make it easy for anyone – from baggage handlers to hotel porters – to lift, while compression straps help stabilize the load. If that’s not enough, a zippered top pocket is ideal for easy-access items.

• High wheel clearance
• 65-liter capacity
• Good-looking design
• Additional grab handles
• May require additional rain cover
• Not carry-on compatible
• Not for adventure travel

Is the Osprey Farpoint 65 Wheeled travel pack for me?

When you’re heading off on an international trip, you’re likely to need a greater capacity backpack with wheels then you would on a day to day basis, such as that offered by the Osprey Farpoint 65 Wheeled travel pack. Not just a larger-sized backpack with wheels, the Osprey Farpoint 65 Wheeled also has some great additional features, such as the padded hip belt and zippered top pocket.

I took this to Goa and let me tell now, the streets are not exactly intended for carrying wheeled backpacks along making it a particularly hard test – but the Osprey Farpoint 65 Wheeled held its own and showed no sign of damage after months of life.

In this case for me, the wheels were the area of the case I really wanted to put through its paces. I was impressed by how well they took a beating and how smooth they were over challenging surfaces. Of course, the ability to throw backpack luggage with wheels on your back when things get super rough is the main selling point and I can confirm the transition was just as comfortable as my traditional pack.

OIWAS Backpack

Not only is the OIWAS Backpack with Wheels a phenomenal backpack with wheels, but it is also carry-on compatible with plenty of major airlines.

What’s more, the backpack is just as suited on a weekend break as it is at the office, so it’s ideal for business trips or saving money by only having to buy one bag for both work and play. Being carry-on friendly means you can ditch the secondary daypack and bring it all in one.

Its gentle styling means the OIWAS Backpack is just as suitable for business travel as it is for a sightseeing trip, which makes this backpack with wheels extremely versatile! The super durable material means that it will last years of commuting all over the world!

• Wheeled backpack with lots of organisation
• Hidden handle zip
• Suitable for business and vacation travel
• Durable materials
• Weighs 10 lbs
• Carry-on size might be small for some
• A bit fiddly to transition from bag to roller

Is the OIWAS Backpack for me?

The OIWAS Backpack takes the crown as our overall best backpack with wheels because of its fantastic features and ultimate versatility. Not only is it a backpack for travel, but also a business bag too – so it works for casual or business travel.

If you’re looking for a good all-around backpack (and more) with wheels, you need to look no further than the OIWAS Backpack!

One of our team took this to the streets Lisbon recently and confirmed that this travel backpack with wheels was a lifesaver on all those steps! A stand-out feature was the separate top section of the pack that can be accessed without having to go into the main pack. It’s handy for things like your phone, wallet or passport.

When it comes to a backpack with wheels that meets the requirements of aircraft carry-ons, you can’t get much better than the Gear Warrior 34L.

For carry-on functionality, the 22-inch backpack comes with a very decent 34-liter capacity, but should you find your travels leave you needing more space, zipper expansion will give you an additional overall capacity! Designed to be durable and survive the rigors of air travel, the Load Warrior is constructed using tough ripstop nylon, with extra reinforcement in areas known to take the most wear and tear.

There are plenty of pockets to keep smaller items from getting lost, and even a divider to keep clean and dirty items separate inside.

• Carry-on compatible
• Expands to almost double its size
• Reinforced corners
• A good number of pockets in addition to the main compartment
• Not a rigid case
• Water repellent but not waterproof
• Single-strut handle
• No RFID-blocking technology

Is the Eagle Creek Load Warrior for me?

Built to survive the outdoors, the Eagle Creek Load Warrior is at home in boutique hotels or the first-class section of an aircraft.

Compatible with aircraft overhead compartments, and with reinforced corners to help it last as long as possible, the Load Warrior is sure to become your go-to carry-on!

Our team loved how roomy this carry on backpack with wheels felt without being too heavy. They remarked that the design actually allows for far more storage than many of the other heavier cases. This was aided by the expandable compartments that make the bag feel super versatile.

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Coming from the makers of the Swiss Army Knife, you won’t be surprised by the durability and multi-functionality of the Victorinox Vx Sports Cadet backpack with wheels. It works for the modern hiker , who is just as likely to need a laptop as a pair of boots, the Sports Cadet has a dedicated padded sleeve for laptops with screens of up to 16 inches.

There’s a retractable wheel cover to prevent the spread of dust and dirt from the wheels when they’re not in use, and compression straps to keep all your kit in position, whether on the hiking trail or in the airport departure lounge.

Rounding things off is a good number of separate zippered pouches for smaller items. If you’re looking for a wheeled hiking backpack that still wouldn’t look out of place on a business trip, then this is the one!

• Dedicated laptop sleeve
• Retractable wheel cover
• Zippered pockets
• Only laptops up to 17” fit in a padded sleeve
• Smaller wheels may struggle on rough ground
• Just one size available
• Soft-shell design

Is the Victorinox Vx Sports Cadet backpack with wheels for me?

This durable and well-styled backpack with wheels by Victorinox is, to our mind, the best currently on offer for hikers.

A retractable wheel cover means you can hide away the slimline wheels when you know you’re not going to need them, while the padded laptop sleeve means you won’t ever have to worry about your tech – no matter how rough the trail becomes!

Our testers just loved the quality feel of this rolling hiking backpack and described it as Swiss ingenuity at its best! Well, we can’t argue with that because everything from the smoothness of the high-quality zippers to the durability of the wheels feels premium.

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. 😉

The wheels and retractable handles that come part and parcel of a backpack with wheels means that these bags are invariably more cumbersome than their non-wheeled counterparts. That said, there are still some excellent lightweight backpacks with wheels out there to choose from, of which the Samsonite Rewind is perhaps the pick of the crop.

There’s an integrated rain cover to keep all your kit protected from the weather, a dedicated laptop compartment to keep your prized machine secure, and compression straps to hold everything in place whatever you find yourself doing.

Weighing just 2.1 kg when empty, this soft-shell bag is largely made up of tough polyester durable material and has a capacity of 30 liters.

The Samsonite brand is a popular choice and I feel that this suitcase backpack with wheels lived up to the brands high reputation. I loved just how light the pack felt even when fully loaded whilst still retaining that characteristic Samsonite sturdy and tough feel.

• Lightweight backpack on smooth wheels
• Integrated rain cover
• Dedicated laptop compartment
• Made from tough polyester
• Not as light as a backpack without wheels
• 5-liter capacity may be too small for some
• Laptop compartment fits machines no larger than 16”
• No hip belt

Is the Samsonite Rewind for me?

When the need for a lightweight backpack with wheels is your primary concern, it’s difficult to beat the 2 kg Samsonite Rewind. For that weight, you get a backpack with a capacity of 32.5 liters, a dedicated compartment laptop pocket for laptops up to 16”, and compression straps too!

Solgaard Carry On Closet 2.0

Ok, so this smooth wheeled suitcase is in fact not a backpack, BUT , it is such a neat product idea that I could not keep it off of this list.

Hailed as one of the most practical wheeled luggage designs of all time, the Carry on Closet 2.0 is the perfect unit for busy business travelers looking to add a bit of order to an already crazy schedule.

As the name suggests, the Carry on Closet features an expandable shelving system that makes packing, access to your stuff, and general organization much more streamlined.

There are a total of six different shelves to work with and compression straps to help secure all of the contents. The shelving system is also removable in case you are the kind of travleer who prefers packing everything into the main compartment instead.

The exterior design of the Carry on Closet is sleek, modern, and tough looking and has interesting security features including a built in lock and unbreakable polycarbonate shell.

Our testers were pleasantly surprised by this suitcase. Let’s be honest, sometimes these things can be a bit of a gimmick that in reality aren’t all that practical. But qudos to Solgaard because the closet design actually works wonders especially if you like to keep all your gear organised. The material also feels sturdy enough to withstand proper usage too.

• Unique shelving system is the undeniable highlight
• Can be integrated with Solgaard’s solar charging system ( Solar Bank  sold separately)
• Comes in two sizes based on carrying needs.
• Stylish and tough as nails.
• Heavy (9 lbs when empty).
• Not factually a wheeled backpack.
• Too small for extended trips
• The closet can decrease the amount of clothing you can actually pack.

Is the Solgaard Carry On Closet 2.0 for me?

If you find yourself hopping between cities for 2-3 days at a time and want a user friendly packing solution, the Solgaard Carry on Closet was pretty much designed exactly for people like you. There is a reason why Time Magazine called it the best travel invention of 2018. For international trips stretching out more than three days though, I’d consider bringing an additional business bag . Wheeled suitcases are never going to be super cool, but Solgaard has probably come the closest of any company to fitting that description.

Why is the Karabar Aragon Overnight Wheeled Backpack great for business travelers? First and foremost, its plain black design won’t stand out in an office or conference hall. But more than that, this backpack with wheels is incredibly functional for business travel.

For instance, it contains many internal compartments of different sizes, meaning there’s a space for everything – from your laptop and tablet computer (in padded sleeves) to A4-sized files, smartphone, and keys. With a sensibly-sized capacity of 40 liters and weight of just under 5.7lbs, there’s enough space for a night away from home.

Our testers particularly loved how smooth the handle was when popping the bag up and down. It means quick transitions from wearing the pack on your bag on a train to rolling it across the station. Experienced travelers know the stress of messing around with your bags on a crowded platform!

• Looks right for the business world
• Padded laptop compartment
• Internal divisions to help keep your kit organized
• Locking zippers
• 40-liter capacity may be a little small for some
• Not fully waterproof
• Not for outdoor adventures
• Fits laptops up to 16”

Is the Karabar Aragon Overnight Wheeled Backpack for me?

When you’re traveling for business, it’s just as important to look the part as it is to act the part, and using the Karabar Aragon Overnight Wheeled Backpack will certainly help. Its relatively plain, black appearance is the perfect start, while the internal compartments will keep you organized and efficient however long your days on the job.

Osprey Daylite 40 Liters

Is the Osprey Fairpoint Wheeled too big for you? Do you want a high-quality Osprey backpack with wheels to handle all of your travels?

Osprey’s Daylite 40L might just be your travelling chameleon! This backpack is great as a carry-on. I like the padded handles and internal compression straps to keep your things organized. The best part about this backpack is its weight. It weighs so little that it’s hard to believe it’s so durable. Wheels are also good quality!

Speaking of the wheels, they were a real stand out feature for me. They’re lightweight, smooth and durable. But if you do happen to wear them out, well a great feature is that they are easily replaceable which makes this bag one for the long haul.

• Carry On to most flights
• Lightweight yet durable
• Not as big as Sojourn

Is the Osprey Daylite 40 liter for me?

This is a good backpack that is compliant for many carry-on requirements. This backpack is for you if you want a backpack with a comfortable and high-quality backpack.

While the Sojourn is great, we like that you’re more likely to carry this sized bag on your back as it is one of the lightest backpacks on this list! That said, we’re still a fan of the Osprey Meridian a bit more if you can afford it! The Ozone beats the Meridian when it comes to price!

High Sierra XBT Wheeled Laptop Backpack

This is an affordable backpack that ticks off all the boxes. It is easy to maneuver with its smooth rolling corner-mounted wheels. It’s also lightweight, and features plenty of internal and external pockets for easy organisation.

We like that there are two main compartments and across them both is a compression strap to keep things tight. The front compartment is great for keeping things close to hand like your bus pass or city maps whilst everything behind it is super secure.

All in all, this bag will get the job done, and get you from point A to point B; however, it’s not the highest quality roller backpack on this list nor do any features set it apart from the rest of the bags. That said, its price is hard to beat!

Our testers loved this budget option and the fact that it still came with a padded laptop compartment, something our team takes very seriously! In fact, they said for such a well-priced bag their expensive equipment felt safe and secure.

• Quality is so-so but good for the price

Is the High Sierra XBT Wheeled Laptop Backpack for me?

This is a good, affordable backpack. While it’s not our top pick on this list, it will get the job done! We like that it’s wheeled luggage with multiple functions. It easily converts into a backpack.

Cwatcun Camera Backpack

Any semi-serious photographer will already know just how much kit it’s necessary to cart around when you count up the camera, lens, and other pieces of vital equipment a photographer needs.

Not only can the weight soon mount up, but much of this equipment is delicate, meaning you need a specific camera bag – such as the Cwatcun Camera Backpack. Open up the main compartment and you’ll find eleven adaptable compartments that you can personalize as you wish.

There is also a padded sleeve for laptops up to 15.6″ and straps on one side to take a full-sized tripod ! The backpack also has an expandable area so if you pick up a few souvenirs along the way you’ll be a-ok!

Let’s be honest, Cwatcun actually make some pretty good products for those of us on a budget and well, as Broke Backpackers, our team are always on the lookout for a bargain. They really loved how versatile this bag was for the price. Many of the crew aren’t avid photographers but still enjoyed the addition of the dividers which meant they could easily organise and separate whatever they put in the bag too.

• Dedicated camera bag
• Adaptable compartments
• Padded laptop sleeve
• Expandable section
• Exterior a little drab
• Wheels protrude slightly
• Can become heavy when fully loaded
• Side straps better for a lighter tripod

Is the Cwatcun Camera Backpack for me?

If you’re in the business of carting around expensive camera equipment, either as a seasoned amateur or a semi-professional, you’re going to need a good backpack dedicated to the job. With an adaptable interior and plenty of small extra pockets for lens wipes and memory cards, this backpack from Cwatcun certainly fulfills that brief!

Aerolite 21” Four-Wheel Backpack

Matching the Cabin Max on price is the Aerolite wheeled backpack, which is a model using a four-wheel design rather than the regular two-wheel version. Although it may be a little plain to look at for some, this 32L backpack is carry-on compatible with many of the major airlines you’ll be flying with and has shoulder straps that won’t get in the way as they can be placed behind a Velcro cover.

Made from truly durable 1680 Dernier polyester and nylon, this backpack is sure to last, while useful side pockets in addition to the spacious main compartment mean you won’t have any trouble taking everything you need while you’re away!

What our testers loved most about this pack in particular is how much it actually looks and feels like a “normal” backpack compared to some of the other square or bulkier bags. With added covers for the wheels, it very much felt like a backpack with added functionality when needed rather than carrying a suitcase on your back!

• Very well-priced
• Four-wheel design
• 32 liters may be too small for some travelers
• Plain design
• Wheels a little bulky

Is the Aerolite Four-Wheel backpack for me?

It’s fair to say that the great price may be the first thing to attract many would-be customers to the Aerolite Four-Wheel backpack! But looking beyond that, we think this is an excellent backpack with wheels, with a very reasonable capacity of 32 liters, durable construction, and compatibility with carry-on regulations for the major airlines.

Swiss Tech Navigation 21” Upright

What we love about the Swiss Tech Navigation 21″ Upright is primarily its high quality spec. It is made from sturdy, durable materials  and extremely is well put together. Its hard exterior makes it fully waterproof and able to survive a few falls. It also comes with an integrated TSA lock and a USB port  and utilises an  wheel design for maximum ease of movement.

Our testers loved the addition of the shoe holders, as folks who get out and about in nature whilst travelling, being able to keep our muddy shoes away from our “clean” clothes was a godsend! It’s actually made from pretty sturdy stuff too so it’s not going to rip easily.

• Durable and sturdy
• 12 year guarantee
• 40 liters may be too large for some travelers
• Not as cheap as some on here
• Heavier than some other models in its class

When it comes to testing and comparing wheeled backpacks there are a few areas that we looked at. The first one is how versatile a product it and specifically how well it performs both it’d wheels function, and its backpack function. For example, some of the products on this list are great for wheeling, but perform less well when worn and carried as a backpack.

Next up, we paid really close attention to the quality and build of the wheels as this a major stress area. Beyond that we looked at durability, comfort, awarded bonus points for innovative features and added a weighting for price and value.

Of course, trying out travel gear liked backpacks on wheels is not a perfect science and we were not able to blind test them under laboratory conditions. Rather, various members of our team tried them on various trips over different time periods. For example, I took the Osprey Sojourn to Goa in India which has no pavements, dusty roads laden with cow shit – as such it got a proper brutal test whereas other packs got an easy ride being carried through the gilded streets of Copenhagen. Still, we stand by our assessments.

Still have some questions about the best backpack suitcases with wheels? No problem! We’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Here’s what people usually want to know:

What is the best wheeled backpack?

We think the best wheeled backpack for overall travel is the Osprey Fairview .

Are rolling backpacks better?

Rolling backpacks are ideal if you are carrying a very heavy load or if you have problems carrying a backpack.

How many wheels does a wheeled backpack have?

Wheeeld backpacks usually have 2 wheels although some have 4.

What are bags with wheels called?

Backpacks with wheels! There is no fancy or technical name.

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There’s no excuse for uncertainty now we’ve given you all the relevant details on the best backpacks with wheels you can purchase right now!

Any of our most recommended bags will be able to keep up with you on your adventures. Enjoy the versatility of these great rolling backpacks!

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!

Rhenz Caguioa

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This has clearly not been updated in 2022. Almost none of these bags are currently sold. Further – the Nomadic bag that is recced here is not even a backpack.

Hi Valkyrie

Firstly, we are well aware that the Nomatic is not even a backpack which is why we wrote “this is not a backpack” in large letters in the relevant section.

Otherwise, we are aware that a number of these backpacks are currently unavailable owing to inventory issues but are optimistic that production and sales will resume in due course. If we come across any suitable alternative products in the meantime, we will of course update this post.

I agree that wheeled backpacks are a great type of travel bag. I’m loyal to the Osprey Brand and love their bags.

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12 Best Wheeled Backpacks (Ultimate 2024 Buying Guide)

* This article contains affiliate links, which help run this site at no extra cost to you.

TL;DR: The best wheeled backpacks are the High Sierra Freewheel Backpack and the Osprey Sojourn because of their combination of high-clearance wheels and comfortable carrying options that make it easier to breeze through an airport or across cobblestone. The Freewheeler is a perfect budget carry-on bag while the Sojourn comes in larger sizes that would be a good checked bag option.

I used to be one of those travelers who scoffed at wheeled backpacks. 

They just seemed impractical for my style of travel, which was usually off-the-cuff, adventurous backpacking. 

And to be fair, that was probably the case when I used to only do that type of travel. 

When you’re only spending a few days in each location, constantly on the move, and needing to carry your bag for long distances along dusty roads, a wheeled backpack doesn’t make a lot of sense. 

Now that I’m no longer a full-time backpacker and I take a variety of different types of trips, I finally understand the draw of wheeled backpacks. 

Not to mention, after turning 30 and having off-and-on lower back pain as a tall human, a wheeled backpack allows my back to take a break when I don’t necessarily need a regular backpack. 

And the great thing about rolling backpacks is they’re still much more convenient and versatile than traditional rolling luggage. 

They’re easy to convert either into a backpack or a rolling piece of luggage, depending on what I need in the moment. 

So, without rambling further, these are my picks for the best wheeled backpacks for travel, work, commuters, and even students. 

Short on time? Here’s a quick look at the top 12 best wheeled backpacks.

12 Best Rolling Backpacks

#1 Osprey Sojourn

Best Backpack for Checked Luggage

Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9 in Weight: 7lb 15 oz  Capacity: 45L – also offered in 60L and 80L Best for: Travel (carry-on and checked)

If you’re looking for the best rolling backpack for travel, look no further than the Osprey Sojourn . 

I’m a big fan of Osprey, I’ve been using their packs for over a decade and they’ve never let me down. 

And this Osprey travel backpack with wheels is no exception in terms of a quality piece of gear that’s long-lasting.

If you’re looking for a large travel backpack with wheels, this Osprey pack is a good-sized option.

It’s not too big but big enough to fit a decent amount of clothes and gear for a weekend trip or something longer. 

It’s also a versatile wheeled backpack since the size of this bag fits most airline carry-on dimensions. 

Besides its size, its durability (especially its large high clearance wheels) makes it the best wheeled backpack for Europe travel when you’re navigating those uneven cobblestones. 

Other features of this Osprey backpack with wheels include extra padding to protect your gear, compression straps, and a well-ventilated suspension system to keep you comfortable when you’re carrying the bag as a backpack. 

It also has a zippered top pocket for easy access to liquids or your passport, which I love on a carry-on travel pack. 

This pack acts as a convertible backpack suitcase with a clamshell opening for the main compartment to easily pack and unpack your things. 

Lastly, it has a removable hip belt and harness if you need more room or if you don’t want to carry the extra weight.

And if you’re looking for an even larger backpack with wheels, there’s a larger size in the Sojourn series—the Osprey Sojourn 80L pack. 

• Versatile enough for carry-on and checked luggage
• Compression straps
• Ventilated suspension system
• Large, high clearance wheels for navigating rough terrain 
• Zippered top pocket for easy access to toiletries and passport when you’re going through security
• Clamshell opening for easy packing and unpacking
• Extended handle for extra control of heavier loads
• Mesh hip belt for extra stability when carrying it like a backpack
• Removable hip belt and harness if you need more room 
• Sometimes doesn’t fit strict carry-on requirements. If you fill it to the brim, you might have to check it. 
• No external pockets for carrying a water bottle 
• No padded laptop sleeve
• A little bulkier and heavier than other packs on this list due to its heavy-duty nature and large wheels

#2 Osprey Fairview & Farpoint

Best Carry-On Backpack With Wheels

Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9 in Weight: 5 lbs 5 oz Capacity: 36 L – also offered in 65L Best for: Travel (carry-on)

As you can probably tell from this article, Osprey is one of the best brands for travel backpacks and wheeled backpack luggage.

Another two Osprey backpacks with wheels, the women’s Osprey Fairview and men’s Osprey Farpoint , are the slightly smaller and less expensive cousins to the Osprey Sojourn.

This is the better option if you’re going for carry-on-only travel since the Fairview and Farpoint are more compact and lightweight.  

At 36L, this could easily be your go-to piece of luggage with wheels and backpack straps for those long weekends or week-long trips. 

The Osprey Farpoint and Fairview backpacks are made from durable, abrasion-resistant nylon material and have a lightweight aluminum frame and ergonomic handle. 

They also feature dual compression straps, a padded hip belt for better balance, an easily accessible front zippered pocket to hold toiletries or a passport, and an easy-to-maneuver frame that’s comfortable to roll or wear. 

This rolling travel backpack also has oversized wheels for easier transport and with how they’re designed, they’re easy to tuck out of the way when wearing it as a backpack.

Similar to the Sojourn, this is a backpack suitcase with wheels, with a clamshell opening that allows you to grab your items like you would in a suitcase. 

Or, if you’re looking for a good alternative carry-on wheeled backpack that looks a little sleeker and less like an Osprey backpack, I’d recommend going for the 40L Osprey Ozone .

The Osprey Ozone doesn’t have external compression straps but still feels spacious inside.

All up, if you’re looking for a backpacker’s backpack with wheels, the Farpoint or Fairview packs are some of the best options out there.

Plus, you really can’t go wrong with an Osprey bag. 

• Lightweight
• Compact and meets carry-on dimensions for most airlines—especially for domestic US airlines
• Made from durable materials that are abrasion-resistant
• Handle has an ergonomic grip 
• Dual compression straps
• Comfortable to wear as a backpack for longer durations
• Easily accessible top pocket for liquids or passport
• Padded hip belt for more balance and to help distribute the weight
• Sturdy, oversized wheels
• Wheels aren’t covered in backpack mode
• Large interior pocket isn’t completely flat because the handle goes through it  

SHOP WOMEN’S ON:

SHOP MEN’S ON:

#3 Hynes Eagle 2-in-1 Travel Backpack

Best Wheeled Backpack With a Daypack

Dimensions: 22 x 14.2 x 15.7 in Weight: 8.31 lb Capacity: 43L Best for: Checked luggage and longer trips

If you’re looking for rolling backpacks for travel that include a detachable daypack, the Hynes Eagle 2-in-1 Travel Backpack is an ideal option.

This Hynes Eagle 2-in-1 backpack with wheels features a large main compartment with four zippered pockets and an easy-to-access zippered top pocket for toiletries.

It also has a dual retractable tube handle for better control, lockable zippers, and durable high-clearance wheels.

Instead of fully removable backpack straps like the now discontinued Osprey Meridian, the Hynes Eagle has a compartment for tucking the straps out of the way.

This means there’s no chance of forgetting them at home, only to realize when you want to use the backpack feature on a trip.

The detachable daypack has a few different pockets and good internal organization.

There’s a 15.6″ padded laptop sleeve, plus a pocket for an iPad and other electronics. At the front, there’s a scratch-free pouch that’s perfect for sunglasses or a phone. 

And this is another backpack-suitcase combo. The front compartment has a clamshell opening similar to a suitcase to make it easier to pack and unpack. 

This is one of the most versatile wheeled backpacks on this list since it can technically be turned into three different bags—a wheely backpack, a regular backpack, and a detachable daypack. 

If you’re looking for a portable and versatile large travel pack with wheels that’s perfect for checked luggage, and you liked the Osprey Meridian, the Hynes Eagle is the newest, best option on the market.

• Made from durable, water-repellent polyester that can withstand wear and tear
• Versatile—can be turned into three different types of backpacks
• Wheel cover to protect your clothing from getting dirty
• Dual tube retractable handle for easier maneuverability
• Opens like a suitcase for easy packing and unpacking
• Trolley strap
• Good interior organization with a decent amount of pockets
• No hip straps
• Has a tendency to fall over and not stand up on its own when packed fully 

#4 Everki Atlas

Best Professional Wheeled Backpack

Dimensions: 21.3 x 15.7 x 8.1 in Weight: 6.7 lb Capacity: 30L Best for: Business travel and meetings, college, gaming

By far the best backpack with wheels for business trips is the Everki Atlas . It’s a great professional backpack with wheels that’s sleek, lightweight, and well-organized. 

This carry-on backpack with wheels has top-notch organization and dedicated sleeves for your tech gear, including a padded laptop sleeve that fits up to a 17.3″ laptop. 

And if you’re not carrying a laptop, you can remove the laptop pouch to make extra room for clothes or other items. 

The main compartment unzips fully into a clamshell opening for easy packing and accessibility.

The Everki Atlas business backpack with wheels also features a tablet pocket and an RFID-blocking pocket for your credit cards and passport, as well as spaces for keys, water bottles, books, and more. 

In terms of comfort, this bag is comfortable to wear for long durations, featuring extra-wide and padded straps and a weight-balancing chest strap.

It’s seamless to turn this versatile backpack into a wheeled bag and vice versa.

The backpack straps can be tucked away in the back flap when you’re not using them.

And the same flap protects your clothes and covers the wheels when you’re carrying it as a backpack. 

There’s also a pass-through strap on the back of the bag to make it easy to pair with a larger piece of rolling luggage.

Simply put the handle of the larger bag through the pass-through strap for a secure fit to carry two bags at once. 

Finally, the Everki Atlas is made from durable materials, including good zippers and metal pulls.

If you’re looking for a stylish and quality carry-on for upcoming business trips, or if you’re looking for a more professional backpack for school, the Everki Atlas is an ideal option. 

• Carry-on compliant for both domestic and international airlines
• Good organization, especially for tech gear
• Removable laptop sleeve to make more room for clothes and other items
• Ability to hide wheels or backpack straps for a fully convertible backpack
• Comfortable to wear for long durations
• Has a pass-through strap to carry it on top of larger rolling luggage securely
• Sleek and professional for business travel 
• The handle can be a bit short for anyone over 6′
• Weight distribution makes it slightly slower to roll compared to other bags on this list
• Wheels are small and not good for rough terrain

#5 Matein Wheeled Backpack

Best Waterproof Wheeled Backpack

Dimensions: 19.5 x 9 x 13 in Weight: 4.8 lb Capacity: 36L Best for: Business travel, college/school, carry-on travel 

It’s hard to find good waterproof rolling backpacks these days, most are water-resistant. 

That’s why I was excited to discover the Matein Wheeled Backpack , especially at its affordable price point. 

This convertible rolling backpack is ideal for college or business trips with an organization that’s geared toward tech gadgets. 

Inside the pack, you’ll find a laptop pouch that holds up to a 15.6″ laptop and a main compartment that can hold 36L of books, papers, clothes, or a combination of things.

The smaller front compartment has various pockets to keep items organized and accessible. 

For such an affordable price, this pack is also surprisingly durable. 

It has a waterproof bottom panel and corner guards to protect the bag from wear, lockable zippers, rubber wheels, and a durable telescoping handle that can be adjusted to two different heights.

When you’re not using it as a backpack, you can tuck the backpack straps away in a zippered pocket.

The handle can also be tucked away in a zippered top pocket when not in use. 

Although this bag doesn’t have the ergonomic design that some of the other backpacks on this list have, it still has breathable, adjustable, and padded shoulder straps for comfortable wear.  

If you’re looking for a waterproof carry-on rolling bag for work or a backpack with wheels for college, the Matein Wheeled Backpack is a good choice.  

• Carry-on compliant for domestic and international airlines
• Somewhat durable, although made from cheaper materials 
• Handle has two different heights
• Backpack straps or handle can be tucked away in zippered pockets
• Breathable and adjustable shoulder straps
• Laptop pouch that can hold up to a 15.6″ laptop
• Various pockets and good organization
• Although it’s waterproof, it probably wouldn’t do well in really heavy rain
• Not as good of an ergonomic design as other backpacks on this list, not as comfortable to wear as a backpack for long durations
• No exterior compression straps to make the bag more compact when fully packed
• Wheels don’t spin

#6 Kroser Rolling Backpack

Best Wheeled Backpack Under $100 

Dimensions: 19.8 x 13.7 x 10.2 in Weight: 5.5 lbs Best for: College/school, commuting to work, short business trips

Another affordable small rolling backpack, the Kroser Laptop Backpack is an inexpensive option for school, commuting, and the odd business trip.

There’s not a ton to this backpack, its features are kept simple and streamlined.

Its most prominent feature is its large laptop pouch that can hold up to a 17″ laptop.

The backpack also includes a tablet pocket and additional organization pockets for pens, keys, and other small items. 

If you’re using this backpack to commute to work, there’s room in the back of the bag for an extra outfit and bulkier things.

In addition to the standard interior features, there are two mesh side pockets and hidable padded backpack straps.

The wheels can also be hidden when wearing it as a backpack with a velcro cover. 

As a bonus, the wheels are in a comfortable position when packed away so they don’t dig into your back when you’re wearing it as a backpack. 

With that said, this bag is fairly simple in terms of ergonomic design so it’s not as comfortable to wear for long periods if you’re carrying a lot of weight. 

If you want to use this small pack for a short trip, it’s carry-on friendly and can fit in most overhead bins. 

Lastly, even though the materials used in this pack are somewhat cheap—which is unsurprising with the price point—it’s water-resistant and does a decent job of keeping things dry. 

This is one of the best backpacks with wheels under $100 on the market and it’s versatile enough for school or work.

The Kroser Backpack is perfect for someone who just wants the basics and is looking for an inexpensive rolling backpack. 

• Carry-on compliant, can fit in most overhead bins
• Water-resistant
• 17″ laptop pocket
• Easy to hide straps or wheels when converting it
• Area for clothes and bulkier items in the back
• Padded backpack straps
• Plenty of organization pockets
• Wheels are pretty quiet
• Made from cheap materials
• Not very ergonomic 
• Basic design, not too many extra features
• Small wheels that aren’t good for rough terrain

#7 High Sierra Freewheel Wheeled Laptop Backpack

Best Wheeled Backpack With Laptop Compartment

Dimensions: 20 x 13.5 x 8 in Weight: 4.65 lb Capacity: 34.5L Best for: Carry-on travel, business trips, gamers, college

If you’re looking for good quality rolling backpacks with a laptop compartment, look no further than the High Sierra Freewheel Wheeled Laptop Backpack . 

This is one of the best rolling laptop backpacks, and unlike most of the previous packs on this list that have a laptop compartment, this backpack is designed specifically with travel in mind. 

One of the best aspects of this bag is its maneuverability. 

Whether you’re flying through an airport or rolling across cobblestones in a foreign land, this backpack has a telescoping handle and durably designed wheels that are easy to direct.

Additional features of this backpack with wheels include a media pocket with a headphone port, padded and ergonomically designed backpack straps that can be easily hidden, and zippered side pockets.

You can also hide the handle when you convert it into a backpack with the zippered top pouch. 

Add on to this its large multi-compartment design, extra padded laptop pouch that fits up to a 17″ laptop, front organizer compartment with various pockets, and durable wheels that can roll over pretty much any terrain, and it’s easy to see why this is one of the best wheeled laptop backpacks right now. 

If you’re looking for one of the best travel backpacks with wheels that’s relatively small and affordable, the High Sierra Powerglide is a great option. 

This is also an ideal option if you’re looking for a slightly heftier wheeled laptop backpack that can hold a decent amount of weight comfortably. 

• Mostly carry-on compliant for domestic and international airlines, although can be a stretch if it’s packed to the brim
• Protected laptop pouch with plenty of cushion that can hold up to a 17″ laptop 
• Easy to maneuver
• Durable wheels that can handle most terrain
• Front organizer compartment
• Good for carrying a decent amount of weight
• Ergonomically-designed straps
• Zippered side pockets
• Looks professional
• Versatile enough for business or leisure travel
• Relatively heavy and bulky for its size 
• Wheels can be noisy
• Made from somewhat cheap materials
• Not very water-resistant 
• Could have more organization pockets, especially in the main compartment
• Media pocket could be designed better—it’s upside down so things fall out when you open it

#8 Think Tank Airport Takeoff V3.0

Best Wheeled Camera Backpack

Dimensions: 14 x 21 x 8 in Weight: 8.7 lb Capacity: Holds a 600mm f/2.8 lense, two standard bodies, and various other lenses Best for: Photographers 

If you’re a photographer and you’re looking for wheeled luggage to protect your camera gear, the Think Tank Airport Takeoff V3.0 is hands down the best rolling camera bag on the market right now. 

This wheely backpack can hold up to a 600mm f/2.8 lens, two standard camera bodies, and various other lenses and camera accessories in smaller pockets.

With this bag, you can rest assured that your expensive camera gear is protected and secure, easily accessible, and organized. 

And it’s not just good for photography gear, this backpack has two front pockets that hold up to a 17″ laptop and 10″ tablet. 

There’s also a plushy front pocket to hold your smartphone and glasses.  

Another bonus is the pocket and side straps to lock in your tripod if you want to carry it on the bag.

This pack also has a comfortable shoulder harness with integrated backpack straps and back panel padding for more comfort. 

In terms of security, there’s a cable and combination lock that comes with the bag to lock zippers. And zippers are YKK RC Fuse zippers, meaning they’re durable and waterproof. 

Plus, there’s a seam-sealed rain cover included to protect gear fully. 

This Think Tank backpack is also made of anti-theft materials such as ballistic nylon, high-density velex, and closed-cell PU foam.

The ballistic strength nylon makes it near impossible to slash with a knife. 

This isn’t the lightest backpack with wheels, but if you care more about protecting and organizing expensive camera gear, this is one of the best backpacks you can purchase. 

And if the Think Tank backpack is too far out of your budget range, Amazon also offers a basic wheeled camera bag that’s a good alternative for beginner photographers: Deco Gear 3-in-1 Travel Camera Case .

• Carry-on compliant for most domestic and international airlines
• Pockets for all your tech gear, including a 17″ laptop pocket, smaller pockets for camera accessories, and a place to attach a tripod to the bag
• Heavy-duty 80mm wheels that are durable and quiet
• Secure and weatherproof
• Made from high-quality materials
• Lockable zippers that come with locks
• Stylish and looks professional 
• Heavy for a carry-on
• Not a versatile bag, can really only be used for photography gear and a few other gadgets

#9 Samsonite Wheeled Backpack

Best Lightweight Backpack With Wheels

Dimensions: 8 x 14 x 21 in Weight: 5 lb Best for: Carry-on travel, business trips, college/school, commuting

If you’re looking for a lightweight rolling backpack, it’s good to find one that’s around five pounds or under. 

This Samsonite Wheeled Backpack is an affordable option when it comes to lightweight rolling backpacks and is perfect for anyone who just needs the basics. 

This pack features ripstop fabric to help protect it from wear and tear. 

It’s also designed with contoured straps that have extra padding for more comfort when wearing it as a backpack. 

And the straps can be tucked away in a zippered pocket when not in use. 

Although the organization of the bag is fairly simple and straightforward, there are a few additional pockets to hold smaller items and a laptop pouch that holds up to a 17″ laptop. 

This is the ideal bag for someone who’s looking for a lightweight and inexpensive backpack with wheels for carry-on travel, business trips, or commuting to work or school. 

• lightweight
• Includes a 17″ laptop sleeve
• Made with ripstop fabric to help protect it from wear and tear
• Durable wheels that handle rough terrain well
• Weight distribution is not always even with it’s packed fully
• Made from cheaper materials
• Doesn’t have a ton of pockets for organization
• Cheap zippers—be mindful to close them properly

#10 Victorinox Vx Sport

Best Durable Backpack With Wheels

Dimensions: 14.6 x 10.2 x 21 in Weight: 5 lb Capacity: 30L Best for: Carry-on travel, adventure travel, business trips, commuting 

One of the most durable rolling backpacks that’s carry-on friendly, the Victorinox Vx Sport is one of those backpacks that you can take on any adventure.

Inspired by the design of a Swiss army knife, this backpack is all about versatile functionality.

With the Victorinox Vx Sport, you’ll find multiple protected pockets to keep your items organized and secure—including a laptop pocket with an anti-scratch lining that can hold up to a 16″ laptop. 

There’s also a 10″ pocket that can hold a tablet, Kindle, or other medium-sized electronics. 

Another feature of the Victorinox Vx Sport is the front zippered pockets that are easily accessible and perfect for cruising through TSA lines.

It also has mesh side pockets to hold water bottles and side compression straps to keep weight stabilized and condensed.  

As a bonus, when you convert from rolling luggage to a backpack, there’s a retractable wheel cover that protects the wheels (and your clothes) from dirt. 

This is one of the best heavy-duty backpacks with wheels due to its durable nylon materials and inline wheels that can easily roll over rough terrain.

The zippers are smooth and made from quality materials as well. 

If you’re looking for a durable backpack with wheels for travel or commuting to work, this is a versatile choice.

It’s by far one of the top wheeled backpacks on the market today for those who are looking for a small, compact, and lightweight option. 

• Carry-on compliant for domestic and international airlines—it can even fit under airline seats if it’s not packed too fully
• Lightweight and compact
• Made with durable materials
• Smooth high-quality zippers
• Great tech backpack for keeping your gadgets protected and organized
• Versatile enough for the office or adventure travel  
• Stylish and professional 
• There could be more organization pockets in the front pouch
• Might be too small for some—it can be used for a weekend trip away but not much longer than that

#11 Gonex Rolling Duffel Bag

Best Wheeled Duffel Bag

Dimensions: 32 x 15 x 14 in Weight: 11.4 lb Capacity: 100L Best for: Travel (checked luggage) and carrying heavy gear

The Gonex Rolling Duffel Bag isn’t technically a backpack, but it’s a great option if you plan to carry around a lot of heavy gear. 

This is one of the best large rolling duffels with its durable features and capacity to hold a decent amount of weight. 

The Gonex is too big for carry-on travel, but if you care more about being able to carry more things, it’s the ideal piece of checked luggage. 

Features of this wheeled duffel include multiple pockets and good organization, quiet wheels that can roll over rough terrain easily, and two compression belts to keep weight centered and condensed.

This bag also has a foldable bottom design that allows you to fold the bottom of the bag when it’s not in use, allowing you to save storage space when you’re carrying less gear. 

And when you just want to carry it as a duffel, the handle can be hidden away in a top-zippered pocket.

Lastly, this rolling duffel is made with fairly durable materials, especially at its affordable price point.

These include waterproof PVC fabric that’s wear-resistant on the front, quality YKK zippers, and heavy-duty rubber wheels. 

If you’re looking for a heavy-duty bag that can hold a lot of gear, the Gonex Rolling Duffel Bag is a great option. 

Or, if you prefer a more well-known brand, another one of my favorite heavy-duty rolling duffels is The North Face Rolling Thunder . 

Looking for more duffel bag options? Read our guide to the best waterproof duffel bags .

• Heavy-duty and durable
• Good for carrying heavy gear 
• Water-resistant and the front is made from waterproof materials
• Foldable bottom design to help you save storage space when you’re carrying fewer things
• Converts into a standard duffel when you prefer to carry it
• Quiet rubber wheels that can handle rough terrain
• Two compression belts that keep weight centered
• Quality YKK zippers
• Not carry-on compliant, has to be checked
• Gonex branding is large on the exterior of the bag

#12 Jansport Driver 8

Best Wheeled Backpack For College

Dimensions: 21 x 14 x 10 in Weight: 5 lb Capacity: 36L Best for: College/school

Looking for a good roller backpack for school? 

Although trolley backpacks are sometimes associated with elementary school, they can be great for college as well with the number of heavy textbooks students have to carry around daily. 

The classic Jansport Driver 8 is one of the best rolling backpacks for adults who are in school. It’s everything you’d expect from a Jansport backpack but on wheels! 

The simple design of this backpack includes a 15″ laptop sleeve, a front organizer pocket, two large main compartments, a retractable handle that can be used at two different heights, and a side mesh pocket for a water bottle. 

And it’s easy to convert into rolling luggage from a backpack with shoulder straps that can be easily hidden in the back of the pack. 

If the Jansport rolling backpack isn’t your thing, another good option for school is the J World New York Sundance Backpack .

For adults planning to carry heavy loads, just keep in mind that both of these bags won’t have the suspension system or as much back support built-in, as some of the higher-end packs.

• Standard organization for a school backpack – including two main compartments, 15″ laptop sleeve, and a front organizer pocket
• Retractable handle that can be used at two different heights
• Backpack straps that can be easily hidden away in the back panel when not in use
• Good for lugging around heavy textbooks if used as a wheeled bag
• Wheels can be noisy but are easy to change out for a quieter pair if needed
• No compression straps
• Not super comfortable to wear as a backpack if carrying a lot of heavy textbooks, better to use it as a rolling bag
• Zippers can be stiff

What is a Wheeled Backpack?

A wheeled backpack is exactly what it sounds like–a backpack with wheels, or you could say a backpack on wheels. 

These versatile bags come with wheels and a handle attached so you can either wear it as a backpack or treat it like a rolling suitcase. 

Are Wheeled Backpacks Good?

Wheeled backpacks can be great for people who often carry heavy gear or who deal with back and shoulder pain. 

They’re especially popular for business travel, short weekend trips (or longer trips if you’re not backpacking), and as a way to easily transport gear without hurting your back. 

Why are Wheeled Backpacks Bad?

The downside to wheeled backpacks is they’re usually slightly bulkier than a standard backpack. 

They’re probably not the best choice if you’re a backpacker who is constantly on the go. 

Luckily, even if you need to lug rolling backpacks up stairs or walk across uneven cobblestones, they’re still more versatile than standard rolling luggage.

This is because you can easily throw them on your back like a regular backpack if you need to travel over uneven terrain instead of carrying them like a regular suitcase.  

And that can make a huge difference if it’s a heavy bag.

Are Wheeled Backpacks Better for School?

They can be.

Although rolling backpacks are more common with younger kids, if you want to protect your back while carrying heavy textbooks, it can be a good option for high school and college students too. 

Are Wheeled Backpacks Better for Travel?

Yes and no. 

As I mentioned above, wheeled backpacks can be a great option for those who don’t want to carry a heavy bag all the time on their trip. 

However, if you plan to be doing a lot of on-the-go backpacking through places like Southeast Asia, it might be better to get a more traditional backpacking backpack. 

Wheeled backpacks are great for travel if you’re not walking miles to a new destination.

If you usually just go from point A to point B to drop off your luggage, they can be an ideal way to carry your things without straining your back or putting extra pressure on your shoulders.  

Wheeled backpacks are especially popular with business travelers, older travelers, those who take regular weekend trips, and travelers who want a versatile piece of luggage that they can both carry and roll. 

Wheeled Backpacks vs Regular Backpacks – Which One is Best?

To decide whether you want a wheeled backpack or a regular backpack, it’s good to think about what you’re most likely to use this pack for and what’s important to you in a piece of luggage. 

If you’re into trekking or you plan to have long journeys between destinations (that involve a lot of walking), it’s probably best to go with a regular travel backpack. 

If the distance you need to walk between accommodations is relatively short and you plan to roll your luggage as much as (or more than) you plan to carry it, a wheeled backpack is a good option. 

This is especially the case if you’re worried about the extra strain of carrying all your things on your back 24/7.

A wheeled backpack is more versatile in that sense because you can switch between rolling and carrying it.  

Wheeled Backpack Pros

• More versatile than a regular backpack.
• Better on your back—if your back needs a break, you can roll your things instead of carrying them. 
• The quality, features, and support that wheeled backpacks offer these days have improved a lot in the past decade. 
• Can be used for all types of travel, besides maybe trekking or backpacking.

Wheeled Backpack Cons

• Tend to be slightly heavier and bulkier than regular backpacks due to the harness and the wheels.
• Usually not as comfortable as a regular travel backpack for carrying on your back for long distances. This is due to the rod that goes through the back of the bag and the wheels that can sometimes dig into your back. 

Regular Travel Backpack Pros

• Ergonomic and designed with comfort in mind for carrying long distances. There are also more specific packs for women vs men that are based on body shape for the most comfort. 
• Convenient for on-the-go travel and backpacking when you plan to walk long distances and need a durable bag that you can just throw on and go. 

Regular Travel Backpack Cons

• Not as versatile, can sometimes be less professional or stylish compared to its wheeled counterpart.
• Can get heavy very quickly, especially for packs that hold over 30L. 
• It’s easier to strain your back when constantly picking up a heavy travel pack or carrying it long distances. 

Types of Wheeled Backpacks

Depending on your lifestyle, there are different wheeled backpacks on the market that are better for different things.

It’s good to be aware of which type of wheeled backpack you might need and what to look for.  

Everyday Wheeled Backpacks

An everyday wheeled backpack is what you use daily, not just for special trips. This would be your go-to pack for heading to work, school, or sports practice. 

For an everyday wheeled backpack, you’d be looking for high maneuverability, good accessibility, and a lightweight frame. 

Business Wheeled Backpacks

Business wheeled backpacks are what you might take on a business trip for the weekend.

These are generally sleeker, smaller, and have a more professional look to them.

You’ll probably also want to make sure you’re looking for a wheeled laptop backpack and a pack that can fit all of your work gadgets.

For a business wheeled backpack, you’d be looking for style, compactness, carry-on dimensions, and good organization.  

Wheeled Backpacks for Travel

Wheeled backpacks for travel have come a long way in terms of comfort—just look at the Osprey Sojourn and Osprey Fairview or Farpoint .

These backpacks can be all different sizes depending on the type of travel you usually do. 

When it comes to a good wheeled travel backpack, one of the most important things is comfort.

Make sure you can wear the pack for a decent amount of time so you don’t always have to rely on rolling it when you’re traveling through diverse terrain. 

Besides comfort, it’s also good to look for a wheeled backpack that’s lightweight, opens like a suitcase for easier access to your things, and is durable.

Wheeled Backpacks for Gear

Wheeled backpacks can be especially popular for those who have to lug around a lot of heavy gear regularly. 

Whether you’re an athlete or musician, or you simply have a lot of heavy things, finding a durable, heavy-duty wheeled backpack is super important when it comes to transporting gear. 

For a wheeled gear backpack, you’ll often be wheeling your pack around more than wearing it, so find a pack that has good maneuverability and strong wheels that can support a lot of weight.

You’ll also want to make sure your gear can actually fit into the bag’s dimensions, especially if you have odd-shaped gear (e.g. skis, golf clubs, etc). 

There are often wheeled gear bags that are designed for specific sports or activities, so look for those if you need a specific bag for unique gear. 

How to Choose the Right-Sized Wheeled Backpack

There are several factors to consider when finding the perfect-sized wheeled backpack. 

Do you plan to travel carry-on only, or do you prefer to check your luggage? Are you carrying a lot of gear or are you more of a minimalist? 

Do you mostly travel in the summer and pack a lot of light clothing, or are you more of a winter traveler where you’ll need the extra space for puffy jackets and boots? 

Are you needing a wheeled backpack for work or a long vacation in Europe? Or do you need a wheeled backpack that’s versatile enough for all types of travel?

Weight and durability are also things to keep in mind, in addition to size, since they sometimes tie together as well. 

Although some people say a specific amount of liters translates to the number of days of clothes you can carry, I don’t subscribe to that kind of thinking. 

I’ve used a carry-on-sized backpack for three months in Europe and managed to pack two weeks’ worth of clothes in it (before needing to do laundry). 

As a general rule of thumb, a 35L or less pack is good for weekend trips, and a 45L or over pack is better for longer jaunts. 

If you’re needing a wheeled backpack for business trips or as an everyday backpack, you’ll probably be looking for a backpack that’s under 35L. 

If you know you tend to carry a lot of gear and clothes with you, going for a bigger size can be better.

Although you’ll rarely need more than 70L, even for a multi-day trip. 

40L to 55L is a good middle-ground for backpack size that’s not too small and not too big.  

When choosing the right-sized wheeled backpack, it all comes down to your lifestyle, how you plan to use your pack, and how much weight and bulkiness you want to be carrying around with you. 

What to Look for in a Wheeled Backpack

Size & weight.

As I mentioned above, size and weight tend to go hand-in-hand. Are you looking for a compact carry-on or a large wheeled bag to carry a lot of gear?

Because you have the versatility of wheels, you can pack more weight than you might with a regular travel backpack, but it’s good to keep in mind that you might still want to use it as a backpack from time to time. 

If you want to be able to use your wheeled backpack as both a carry-on and for checked luggage, make sure to check its dimensions and weight are within carry-on restrictions. 

There’s a reason you’re interested in getting a wheeled backpack vs wheeled luggage—you want the versatility to be able to wear your pack when you want.

Because of this, you’ll want to look for a wheeled backpack that has a comfortable frame, padded shoulder straps, and a good suspension system.

Even if you plan to mostly wheel your backpack around, there might be times when you have to carry it more than you thought.

When that happens, you’ll be glad you prioritized comfort when choosing your pack. 

Things to look for in terms of picking a comfortable wheeled backpack include the following: 

Compression straps – these allow you to compress the contents of the bag and condense it to a more centered weight load for your back. 

Hip and chest straps – help balance the weight of the bag better and provide extra support. 

Materials – are the materials of the backpack breathable and made of mesh, especially around the straps and back area?

If you’re sweating while lugging around a heavy pack, you’ll want to make sure it’s breathable and still comfortable to wear.  

Ergonomically designed – make sure the wheeled backpack you choose is designed with spine health in mind.

One of the main reasons for using a wheeled backpack is to make carrying luggage easier on your back, shoulders, and neck.

Keep this in mind when choosing a comfortable wheeled pack, and make sure it’s ergonomically designed for your body. 

And comfort isn’t just in terms of wearing your pack like a backpack.

There are additional aspects to think about in terms of comfort when it comes to wheeling around your backpack, such as: 

Handle height – if you’re a tall person, are you needing to crouch down to use the handle? Make sure the handle is at a good height to comfortably maneuver your backpack without resorting to bad posture. 

Wheel Maneuverability – you don’t want to uncomfortably twist your wrists every time you need to change directions. Make sure the wheels on your bag have good maneuverability. This might mean they’re able to swivel in all directions and durable enough to roll over most terrain. 

Durability & Materials

When choosing a backpack with wheels, it’s worthwhile to get one that is made with high-quality materials.

I also prefer most of my gear, especially for travel, to be waterproof. Unfortunately, the vast majority of rolling backpacks are only water-resistant for some reason.

However, if you can find a good waterproof wheeled backpack, that’s a great feature to have because it’ll be more durable in any kind of weather.

If anti-theft is an important aspect to you in a bag, it’s good to look for a backpack that’s made with ballistic nylon. 

And in terms of zippers, YKK zippers are usually a good bet in terms of durability and quality. 

With that said, usually the more durable the bag, the more expensive it’s going to be. 

So, it’s really up to what you’re looking for and what’s most important to you in a backpack with wheels.

Accessibility

Another aspect to think about when it comes to a good rolling bag is accessibility.

Is there a front or top compartment that’s easy to access and that can fit your liquids and passport when you’re going through TSA?

Where is the laptop compartment located and other pockets that hold heavier items and are they accessible to get to?

Smart bag design goes a long way in terms of convenience and ease of use. 

Maneuverability

How maneuverable is the bag? This usually has to do with the wheel and handle design but also how the weight is balanced. 

Wheels are perhaps the most important when it comes to maneuverability, and there are a lot of different wheel designs out there. 

Wheels on a single track that don’t spin can be harder to change direction quickly. 

If you have full spinner wheels that can move in any direction, that can make a big difference in maneuverability. 

Another key maneuverability feature is the handle. 

Some people swear by the single rod handle; others prefer a double rod because it helps with moving the weight of the bag more easily. 

And lastly, compression straps that center the weight in the bag can help with keeping the bag condensed and having a good center of gravity to move around. 

If you’re a business traveler, you’ll probably want something that looks sleek and professional so you can present yourself in the right way. 

And even as a leisure traveler, being a “backpacker” can have a negative stigma sometimes. 

If that’s something you care about, you might want to go for a backpack with wheels that doesn’t look like a traditional backpacking backpack. 

And on the other side of that, maybe you want a funky-looking backpack that’s colorful and stylish in a unique way. 

This also helps it stand out if you’re picking it up from a luggage carousel. 

It’s all about your personal preference when it comes to style and also what you plan to use your rolling pack for. 

Extra features are another aspect to think about that maybe aren’t as important as the core parts of the bag, such as comfort and durability, but are still nice to have.

Are you looking for a pack that has unique features to it? Perhaps a removable day pack or rain cover?

Some packs even come with their own locks to lock zippers and keep your things secure. 

These extra features are usually just bonuses but are still good to keep in mind if you’re having trouble deciding between two different bags. 

Warranty & Return Policy

And finally, what kind of warranty or return policy does the backpack have in case you need to send it back?

Some packs have no warranty, some have a one-year warranty, and others have a lifetime warranty. 

It’s worth it to research the bag’s warranty ahead of time, especially if you’re shelling out a pretty penny. 

Similarly, the backpack’s return policy can come in handy if you end up not liking the bag or there is some kind of malfunction with the bag you receive. 

Amazon and REI have pretty standard return policies but it’s always good to double-check this before purchasing. 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Mimi McFadden Founder & Editor-In-Chief

Mimi McFadden initially started The Atlas Heart in 2013 to write about her adventures abroad. But since 2019, The Atlas Heart has become a love letter to the Golden State. Mimi enjoys sharing her first-hand knowledge and expertise with the places she knows so well and making the most comprehensive travel guides possible. When she’s not hiking and exploring new places in California, she loves to travel abroad, read in her cozy chaise lounge, play basketball, and connect with friends and family over board games. Over her 28 years in California, she has lived in Santa Cruz (18 years), San Diego (5 years), and the San Francisco Bay Area (5 years), where she currently resides.

Looking for more travel gear recommendations? Check out these related articles below!

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Hi, I'm Mimi! I'm an outdoorsy Californian who has spent over 28 years immersed in the incredible natural beauty that California has to offer. My goal is to inspire others to get out and find their next adventure in California. Whether it’s escaping to an alpine lake in the Sierras, finding peace among the giant redwoods, or road tripping down the PCH, there’s always more to explore in this beautiful state.

4 thoughts on “12 Best Wheeled Backpacks (Ultimate 2024 Buying Guide)”

The single pole handles are not as good as the double pole kind. They don’t maneuver as well and you can’t use them to carry another bag that has a trolley strap.

Agreed, the double pole handles can definitely be a nice feature when it comes to wheeled backpacks.

The Osprey Ozone you linked to does not seem to have a backpack option. Am I missing something?

Hi Ben, thanks so much for letting me know and sorry about that, I meant to put the Osprey Fairview/Farpoint backpack instead of the Ozone. It’s fixed now!

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The 8 Best Rolling Backpacks for Savvy Travelers

Ashley Rossi

Ashley Rossi is always ready for her next trip. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram for travel tips, destination ideas, and off the beaten path spots.

After interning at SmarterTravel, Ashley joined the team full time in 2015. She's lived on three continents, but still never knows where her next adventure will take her. She's always searching for upcoming destination hotspots, secluded retreats, and hidden gems to share with the world.

Ashley's stories have been featured online on USA Today, Business Insider, TripAdvisor, Huffington Post, Jetsetter, and Yahoo! Travel, as well as other publications.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "A reusable filtered water bottle—it saves you money, keeps you hydrated, and eliminates waste—win-win."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : "A week in a bamboo beach hut on India's Andaman Islands."

Travel Motto : "Travel light, often, and in good company."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Window—best view in the house."

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Rolling backpacks are an ideal luggage item for those who travel light, have back problems, or need to be able to carry their bag at some point during the trip. Equal parts function and convenience, these eight rolling backpacks stand up to busy travel days.

The Best Backpacks with Wheels for All Types of Travelers

Rolling backpacks tend to be more of a cult-favorite luggage type, but I think they’re underutilized in the broader travel community. This style takes the standout features from both rolling and backpack styles of luggage, which come together for a multi-functional masterpiece.

Osprey Farpoint & Fairview Wheeled Travel Pack 36

Osprey has earned its devoted following by consistently creating great backpacks. That expertise translates well into rolling-carry-on form with its Fairview Wheeled Travel Pack for women and Farpoint Wheeled Travel Pack for men. Ultralight at just 5.29 for the 36-liter carry-on model, these bags still manage to pack in plenty of features. The interior has a zippered door-panel pocket and large compression handles, while the exterior is designed with a roomy top and front pockets, a single-tube telescoping handle, and two large wheels that navigate tight spaces easily. Convert the rolling bag to a backpack with just a few zips, and you’ll be treated to Osprey’s signature backpack experience. A tensioned mesh back panel, padded shoulder straps, and a padded hip belt make it ultra-comfortable to carry.

Osprey bags are also finalists in the carry-on category of this year’s Editors’ Choice Awards .

Dimensions: 21.5 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches

Weight: 5.29 pounds

Capacity: Capacity: 36 liters

Samsonite Modern Utility Convertible Wheeled Backpack

Samonsite’s Modern Utility Convertible Wheeled Backpack looks like a soft sided carry-on, but has stealthy stowaway shoulder straps that turn it into a backpack. It has all the features you love in a backpack—water bottle pocket, laptop sleeve, organizational pockets, easy-access pockets—and easily glides on its dual inboard wheels for when you don’t want to carry it on your back.

Dimensions: 19 inches x 13 inches x 9 inches

Weight: 4.85 pounds

Kipling Sanaa Metallic Rolling Backpack (Large)

This stylish rolling backpack from Kipling holds more than you’d think. With two outer pockets, a water bottle pocket, and interior organization, you can easily use this as a weekender bag. This rolling backpack is also monogram-able and made of a coated nylon material that’s water resistant.

Dimensions: 18.5 inches x 12.5 inches x 10.75 inches

Weight: 4.2 pounds

Eagle Creek Expanse Convertible International Carry-on

Eagle Creek’s best-selling wheeled backpack holds up to rougher terrain with bumper protection, side compression straps, treaded wheels, and heavy-duty wheel housing. The bag’s security features include zipper that lock and have attached toggles. Organizational features like a secondary compartment for gear, interior compression straps, and a large interior zippered pocket make packing a breeze.

Dimensions: 21.25 inches x 13.75 inches x 8 inches

Weight: 6.1 pounds

High Sierra Endeavor Business Wheeled Backpack

High Sierra’s Endeavor wheeled backpack is made with the business traveler in mind. Features like a separate laptop compartment, side water bottle holder, tablet pocket, and plenty of exterior organizational pockets make accessing your essentials easy. Plus, the inline skate wheels allow for stress-free maneuvering. Padded shoulder straps and a retractable handle add to this bag’s top-notch qualities.

Dimensions: 21 inches x 14.25 inches x 9.5 inches

Weight: 4 pounds

Capacity: 46.6 liters

High Sierra AT7 Outdoor Rolling Backpack

The standout feature of the High Sierra AT7 Outdoor Rolling Backpack is that it’s three bags in one: a day pack, a wheeled bag, and a backpack. Other notable features include inline skate wheels, hidden backpack straps, and interior compression straps.

Dimensions: 22 inches x 14 inches x 8 inches

Weight: 7.5 pounds

Capacity: 50 liters

Kathmandu Hybrid 50L Trolley

Kathmandu’s Hybrid Trolley rolling backpack has comfortable carrying features like a fold out harness and padded straps. The bag also earns points for being durable and lightweight, plus it’s compatible with Kathmandu’s Gluon Beyond pack . Lockable zippers, interior pockets, sleek design, and compression straps add even more value.

It’s also available in a smaller, carry-on size (32-liter) or larger (70-liter) bag.

Dimensions: 27.5 inches x 11.8 inches x 14.6 inches

Weight: 6.9 pounds

More from SmarterTravel:

• 7 Modern Travel Backpacks That Will Update the Way You Travel
• 10 Best Personal Items for Spirit Airlines’ Baggage Limit
• 6 Hybrid Duffel Backpacks That Will Change the Way You Pack

Ashley Rossi is always ready for her next trip. Follow her on   Twitter   and   Instagram   for travel tips, destination ideas, and off the beaten path spots.

Some review products are sent to us free of charge and with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions, positive and negative, and will never accept compensation to review a product.

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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10 Best Wheeled Backpacks (For Easy Travel)

Wheeled backpacks are a must when you travel with a lot of heavy gear. They help tremendously with back pain especially when you’re carrying lots of gear every day.

But with so many different options, how do you know which wheeled backpacks are right to buy? Only by doing a lot of research, which is exactly what we did so you didn’t have to!

At A Glance: Our Top 3 Picks for Wheeled Backpack

• Best Travel Backpack With Wheels Osprey Sojourn Jump To Review
• Best World Travel Backpack Eagle Creek Gear Warrior Covertable Backpack Jump To Review
• Best Work Wheeled Backpack Samsonite Tectonic Wheeled Backpack Jump To Review
• Best Small Backpack Wenger Luggage Synergy Wheeled 16" Laptop Backpack Jump To Review
• Best Everyday Backpack Aoking Wheeled Travel Backpack Jump To Review

Scroll down to see the best of the best-wheeled backpacks we have found. And there are options for all different budgets!

Top Product Overview

The best wheeled backpacks, osprey sojourn.

If you’re looking for a high-quality travel backpack, the Osprey Farpoint is the bag for you. Although I find it to be a pricey bag, it’s worth every single penny. This wheeled backpack is made from  210D recycled high tenacity nylon, that is coated with a DWR to make it highly water resistant. Great for travel, right>

I liked that the Farpoint has a spacious packing space, and inside there are several zippered pockets. The total capacity of the backpack is 65 liters , so I noticed I can stuff a lot of gear compared to when I travel with a smaller suitcase. But, unlike a suitcase, the Farpoint has multiple internal pockets, attachment points, and compression straps to pack more or keep things secure.

This pack also has top and side grab handles for effortless picking up . Which is great for when you need to check it in or load it on a train or bus!

The thing I love about the Farpoint is that both the back panel and the harness are padded and ventilated – using Osprey’s famous Airspeed suspension system. So, it feels comfortable even when you’re carrying the backpack on your shoulders. I appreciated having a padded hip belt and sternum strap to distribute the load on your hips instead of on your shoulders.

One thing I didn’t like about this rolling backpack is the lack of  a dedicated laptop pocket . Sure, you can fit pretty much any device inside the actual bag, but it lacks the convenience of  a TSA-friendly bag.

Overall, if you want a convertible wheeled travel back pack with an insane amount of space that is easy to move about, you can’t really go wrong.

Note:   The Osprey Fairview is the women’s version of this rolling travel backpack.

• Carry on sized
• Padded back panel and harness
• Spacious storage compartment
• No dedicated laptop compartment
• Quite heavy

Product Information

• Dimensions: 27.56 X 16.14 X 13.39 Inches
• Weight: 6.174 lbs
• Capacity: 65 liters
• 3967 IN3 / 65 L 27.56H X 16.14W X 13.39D IN. 6.174 LBS.

Eagle Creek Gear Warrior Covertable Backpack

When it comes to world-class luggage, Eagle Creek’s name pops up almost every time. You might know them more for their packing cubes or other travel accessories, but this travel backpack with wheels  is also top-notch!

This is actually a two-bag system, that is ideal for world travelers. You can pack your main bag, and detach the second one for your day out in town or hiking. I love the flexibility of such a system as that is how I always travel.

The large backpack/main bag is a huge packing space with a high-quality harness that I found made the bag a pleasure to walk around with. Just be careful not to overload the second backpack or else it pulls you backwards a bit. Put heavier things closer to your back.

It has a zip-away harness that you can hide if you have to check it in or carry it on a train or bus. And there is a great 42″ extendable handle with skate wheels so you can cruise around the airport or streets of Paris!

The material is high-grade recycled 600D Poly Neo Diamond combined with a rigid 210D Exo Skeleton. The base of both bags is well protected and there is even a stand for the backpack to take a load off. Both bags felt super durable to me, but either way, Eagle Creek backs it up with their “No Matter What” lifetime warranty.

The wheels are nice and burly for those annoying streets with rough ashfelt or even those European cobbles. But, you can always carry it whenever you want too. There are also corner protectors and recessed wheel housing to ensure those durable rollers keep rolling for years to come.

I like how the backpack zips off for the times when you just don’t need it on a trip. However, when you are using it, it has comfy padded shoulder straps to carry it.

Eagle Creek certainly has not forgotten security with lockable zippers tough pulls to open them. They are seriously on point for today’s anti-theft backpacks .

This is no cheap rolling backpack, but when you consider it is actually two-in-one and will take you all the way around the world and back, it’s quite a good deal.

• Water resistant durable fabric
• Laptop pocket is 18"
• Security features
• No organizer panel
• No hip belt
• Dimensions: 21.75 x 14 x 9 in
• Weight: 5 lbs 13 oz
• Capacity: 37 liters
• Dimensions: 18.25 x 11 x 6 in
• Weight: 1 lbs 2 oz
• Capacity: 18 liters

Samsonite Tectonic Wheeled Backpack

Samsonite rarely disappoints with its luggage, so grab this pack if you’re looking for a safe choice. I was impressed by the durable 400D ripstop nylon , which offers great abrasion, tear, and water resistance.

The Tectonic wheeled backpack has two in-line skate wheels  which I found rolled well. Its  shoulder straps are contoured and with thick padding , and there is a cover that you can put over the wheels so they don’t touch your back directly.

The thing I really like about this roller backpack is that it can fit even 17” laptops in the internal padded compartment. I just found it is difficult to get a laptop in and out when it is full. However, there is definitely plenty of space for your gear in the internal and external compartments, including one with an organizer panel.

The one big downside I noticed on this rolling pack is that there’s not really enough space between the bottom of the bag and the ground. This could easily lead to rips and tears in the fabric. Even though nylon is a sturdy material, it’s not strong enough to endure being dragged on concrete.

But smooth floors of the airport, school and the office shouldn’t do any damage to the pack.  To make your backpack last as long as possible, be very careful how you roll it and try not to overfill it.

One thing to note is that not all of the colors are the exact same size. I listed the specs for the black Samsonite wheeled backpack; the purple and red packs are slightly smaller.

• Fts 15- 17” laptops (depending on version)
• Multiple compartments allow for easy organization
• Not enough space between the bottom of the pack and the ground
• No hip belt or sternum strap
• Dimensions: 8” x 14” x 21”
• Weight: 5 lbs
• Capacity: Not specified

Ambor Rolling Backpack

The Ambor rolling backpack is one of the best affordable options. It’s  a great EDC bag , with multiple compartments and pockets that allow you to organize all of your belongings. And it actually has a really spacious compartment that can fit enough clothes for shorter trips.

The bag features a padded laptop sleeve, which can fit most 15” laptops. And there’s also a tablet sleeve attached to the laptop pocket, so all your tech can be safely tucked away in the same place. On top of that, the Ambor wheeled backpack also features two additional external compartments that are great for any of your travel gear you want to have more easily accessible.

There’s  an extra tablet sleeve in the frontmost compartment , as well as an entire organizer panel for all your smaller necessities. The other external compartment does not have any extra pockets inside, and it’s large enough to fit notebooks, magazines, and files.

The pack is equipped with  rubber in-line skate wheels  that roll quite smoothly. The wheel handle is made from aluminum, so it’s very sturdy and lightweight. It’s a single barrel handle, so it really doesn’t protrude inside the actual backpack compartment that much.

You can easily switch this from a wheeled backpack to a normal backpack. The shoulder straps are stowable, and there is a padded cover that goes over the wheels.

However, the straps themselves are quite thin, and there’s  no ventilation on the harness or the backpanel,  so it’s not going to be the most comfortable to carry on your back.

• Very affordable
• Great EDC bag
• Fits 15” devices
• Shoulder straps are quite thin
• No ventilation on backpanel or harness
• Dimensions: 19.8” x 13.5” x 7.8”
• Weight: 6 lbs
• Capacity: 39 liters

High Sierra XBT Laptop Rolling Backpack

High Sierra is known for making high-quality outdoor gear, and this backpack is no exception. It is made from ripstop and tech-weave Duralite fabric, with an additional water-resistant coating that will protect your tech in rainy weather. But, the zippers aren’t exactly water-resistant and water can leak through them – keep that in mind if you get caught in a heavy downpour.

The XBT travel bag features corner-mounted wheels and a double-barrel telescoping handle. Frankly, I’m not a huge fan of the double-barrel handle, as I found it takes up more space within the actual bag.

The thing I love about this pack is that it has  several compartments that allow for easy organization.  There’s a dedicated  laptop sleeve that can easily fit 17” devices , as well as a smaller tablet sleeve.

And that’s on top of the spacious packing space and multiple external pockets, one of which has an organizer panel. Additionally , one of the pockets is lined with micro-fleece to protect your phone or sunglasses from scratches.

This laptop backpack has  external compression straps , which will come in handy when it’s not entirely full. They allow you to cinch in the bag and make it more compact, in order to prevent its contents from shifting around.

Last but not least, there are the  two padded shoulder straps . I liked that they are quite comfortable. However, the lack of a hip belt, sternum strap, and breathable mesh on the back panel means it is not ideal. I would not necessarily recommend this wheeled pack if you’re more interested in carrying it on your shoulders than rolling it around.

• Fits 17” laptops
• Water resistant coating
• No ventilation on the backpanel
• No hipbelt or sternum strap
• Dimensions: 21.3” x 15” x 7.1”
• Weight: 4 lbs
• Capacity: 38.5 liters

Wenger Luggage Synergy Wheeled 16" Laptop Backpack

The Wenger wheeled backpack is one of the most versatile options out there. It works great as both an EDC backpack and a travel backpack, which is why it’s one of our favorites. The spacious main compartment can fit quite a lot of items, whether you’re looking to fill it with books or clothes.

And one of the reasons why we love it so much is the back panel. There’s no messing around with the Synergy pack – with thick padding and high-quality breathable mesh all over the back panel and harness, t his will be as comfortable as any regular backpack.

It is also going to be easy to roll this small backpack, due to the high quality, smooth wheels and the retractable wheel handle.

When you look at the interior of the pack, it only gets better. It has  a triple padded 16” laptop sleeve, as well as a 13” tablet sleeve.  This means that you could technically fit a bigger and a smaller laptop inside the bag.

And that is just one compartment. The Synergy rolling backpack has  multiple other zippered compartments and pockets – I counted at least seven external ones. Plus, there are stretch side pockets that can fit smaller items, including a standard water bottle.

The Wenger backpack kind of seems too good to be true – I bet you’re wondering what’s the catch. And there really isn’t one, other than the high price point that might be off-putting for some people. But it’s  nowhere near as expensive as the  Osprey  or Tumi packs,  and I honestly think the price is fair, considering everything you’re getting for your money.

All in all, a worthy selection from a great range of travel backpacks.

• Padded and ventilated backpanel and harness
• Multiple external pockets and compartments
• Dimensions: 11.8” x 15.4” x 20.9”
• Weight: 6.08 lbs

Aoking Wheeled Travel Backpack

The Aoking backpack is definitely one of my favorites, due to the  really large wheels . Their size lets you casually roll them up and down the stairs, without worrying that you’ll rip one of the wheels off or damage your backpack. And that’s perfect for us lazy folks, that sometimes just can’t be bothered to pick up our luggage.

This travel bag is  available in two sizes, an 18” version and a 20” one.  I will list the specs of both sizes below, so you know exactly what to expect.

Another thing I really liked about it is that it comes with a  detachable cover for the wheels . It will protect you from getting first or water on your clothes, and since it is detachable, it’s super easy to wash it after use.

And there’s more. With thick padding and ventilation on both the back panel and harness, I found I could carry this pack comfortably on my back. When you’re just rolling it, you can tuck away the shoulder straps so they don’t get caught on the huge wheels.

This pack has  a spacious packing space with a laptop pocket (fits 17” devices),  a smaller front compartment with an  organizer panel,  and one zippered external pocket. Because the wheels of the bag are so big, there really isn’t space for side water bottle pockets.

If you’re looking for a really spacious bag for travel, this isn’t the wheeled backpack for you. But if you just want a premium bag for everyday activities, then this is right up your alley.

• No side pockets
• 18” Backpack
• Dimensions: 18.9" x 7.87" x 13.8”
• Weight: 6.5 lbs
• Capacity: 34 liters
• 20” Backpack
• Dimensions: 20.1" x 9.8" x 14.2”
• Weight: 7.19 lbs
• Capacity: 48 liters

TUMI - Merge Wheeled Backpack

Tumi Merge is the rolling backpack we recommend for those of you that looking for  a luxury option .

Even though I don’t necessarily agree with the sky-high price tag, I can’t deny that this is a premium bag,  perfect for those that frequently travel for business . It’s made from  tough ballistic nylon, with an aircraft-grade aluminum wheel handle.

The great thing about this wheeled backpack is that it is small enough to fit under the seat even on smaller jets. This pretty much guarantees you will always be able to carry it on an airplane and avoid checked baggage fees.

The bag opens up like a suitcase, to reveal a very spacious packing space with one zippered pocket and two slip pockets. There are internal compression straps to keep all your clothes in place, but no external straps to cinch the pack when it’s not full.

The shoulder straps are detachable and can be tucked away when you’re rolling the bag. And when you’re carrying it, you can use the cover to protect your clothes from the dirty in-line skate wheels.

In addition to that spacious packing space, the Tumi Merge wheeled backpack also features  a 15” laptop pocket, a dedicated iPad sleeve, and four a total of four external pockets  for any smaller items you would like to have handy while traveling.

On top of that, this bag is  part of the Tumi Tracer program . That means that it has a unique barcode, which can help you track down the bag in case it ever gets lost. Very useful, especially considering the high price point.

• Great for organization
• Spacious packing space
• 15” laptop pocket
• No external compression straps
• Very expensive
• Dimensions: 21" x 13" x 8”
• Weight: 6.4 lbs
• Capacity: 30 liters

Targus Compact Rolling Backpack

The Targus backpack is a great option for those of you that are looking for an affordable bag . There are two versions of the bag, and keep in mind that everything I tell you here only applies to the 16” laptop backpack.

This rolling backpack is  made from durable polyester, with a neoprene grab handle. Polyester is a good material for luggage, but it’s not quite as durable or water-resistant as nylon. So, the lower price point actually makes perfect sense.

This bag features thick padding in the back panel and breathable mesh on the inside of the shoulder straps. Unfortunately, there’s no ventilation on the back panel, so it’s not going to be the most comfortable backpack to carry on your shoulders during hot summer days. But it has wheels and a wheel handle, so you can always just roll it around everywhere.

And when you want to make use of the  in-line skate wheels and the retractable wheel handle , you should tuck away the shoulder straps so they don’t get in the way. You should also make sure to put the cover over the wheels so that they don’t get in direct contact with your clothes.

There’s a dedicated laptop compartment that fits 16” devices, as well as a smaller tablet sleeve. In fact, the laptop compartment  can even fit 17” MacBooks , but not other computer brands.

In addition to the spacious main compartment, the Targus backpack also has  a small scratch-free zippered pocket,  a front compartment with an organizer panel, a zippered side pocket, and a stretch water bottle pocket.

The only downside of the pack is that it’s pretty small. With  a capacity of only 29 liters  it’s not the best choice if you’re looking to replace a carry-on suitcase.

• Fits 16-17 inch laptops
• Internal elastic straps
• Small capacity
• Backpanel not ventilated
• Dimensions: 13.8” x 9” x 19”
• Capacity: 29 liters

Olympia Cascade Wheeled Backpack

Olympia makes some decent affordable luggage , and their Cascade backpack is a good choice if you’re on a budget. It is made from jacquard polyester, sturdy material with good tear resistance.

It  opens up like a suitcase , which allows for easy packing. The main compartment of the pack is very spacious, with  tie-down straps that will keep all your clothes in place. And the large mesh pocket inside this compartment is great for any smaller items you want to keep separate.

The thing that is great about this backpack is that it has expandable capacity. This is actually the only pack in this review that has this feature – if that’s something you were hoping to have, then you shouldn’t look further than the Cascade.

This backpack is also equipped with  several external compartments, zippered pockets, compression straps, and grab handles. One of the grab handles actually doubles as a daisy chain attachment point, allowing you to attach anything you want to it with a carabiner.

The Cascade is overall a pretty good bag, but it has some serious downsides. For one, it’s  lacking a dedicated laptop compartment . Sure, you can fit a laptop inside the bag, but you’ll have to put it in your own sleeve if you want to keep it protected.

The lack of padding is also evident in the shoulder straps, so it’s not going to be the most comfortable pack to wear.

The wheel handle of this Olympia backpack is not the sturdiest. It’s kind of flimsy, especially when fully extended. If you don’t take proper care of it, there’s a really good chance it will break off.

• Expandable capacity
• External compression straps
• Wheel handle is flimsy
• Shoulder straps are pretty thin
• Dimensions: 20" x 15" x 8.5”
• Weight: 5.6 lbs (shipping weight)

SKYMOVE Wheeled Rolling Backpack

The Skymove rolling backpack is another great affordable option. It is made from 1200D oxford fabric, with a multi-stage aluminum alloy wheel handle. Unlike most other roller backpacks you’ve seen here so far, the handle of this backpack can’t be completely hidden. Instead, it’s more similar to a suitcase handle.

I really like that the manufacturer openly stated that this pack is not suitable for people who are taller than six feet because the handle can’t extend enough. It’s much better to know these things in advance, so you avoid buying a wheeled backpack that you can’t actually wheel around.

The main compartment of this pack  opens up just like it would on a regular backpack , and it is really spacious. It has a laptop compartment inside, which can fit devices up to 14”.

There’s also an  external front compartment with a couple of pockets inside , but unfortunately, there’s not a proper organizer panel.

• Multi-stage wheel handle
• Laptop compartment fits 14” devices
• Ventilated backpanel and harness
• Not for people taller than 6ft
• Dimensions: 19” x 13” x 8”
• Weight: 4.6 lbs
• Capacity: 45 liters

Wheeled Backpacks Comparison Table

What to look for in the best wheeled backpacks, what do you need the backpack for.

Are you looking to get a wheeled backpack for travel or as an EDC backpack?

If you’re looking for a bag specifically for travel, then look at backpacks that open up like suitcases. This is going to make packing a lot easier, and it will actually allow you to fit more clothes inside the bag.

In addition to that, if you want a carry-on-wheeled backpack, be sure to check the exact dimensions of the bags. Not all of the packs I’ve shown you here are small enough to be carry-ons, so it’s best to double-check everything to avoid any surprises.

On the other hand, wheeled backpacks that are great for everyday use will actually have several smaller compartments. This is great for organization, especially for people who carry a lot of stuff in their bags – laptops, chargers, notebooks, files, folders, etc.

I showed you both types of rolling backpacks in this review, and it’s pretty easy to tell them apart.

Carrying Comfort

Even though we’re talking about wheeled backpacks, carrying comfort is still very important. Sometimes you’ll have to carry it on your shoulders, and in those instances, you want to be as comfortable as you would be with a traditional backpack.

This means no wheels poking you in the back, adjustable shoulder padded straps, padded back panel, and some sort of protection between the wheels of the pack and your clothes. There’s nothing worse than having to put the filthy wheels directly on your clean clothes – that’s a huge no-no, and I haven’t included any packs that don’t have some sort of cover.

But, not all of the backpacks have a very comfortable back panel. Some have rather thin shoulder straps, just like on most wheeled duffel bags. This is okay if you know you will be wheeling the pack around anyway.

But if you think you’ll spend more time carrying it on your back than wheeling it around, then look for packs that have thick padding in the backpanel and harness, as well as some sort of ventilation (usually breathable mesh).

I’ve shown you backpacks that cost anywhere from $50 to several hundred dollars. And that’s because I wanted to include options for everyone – there’s something for people who are on a tight budget and looking for a quick solution, as well as for those that really want a premium backpack and are willing to pay a lot of money for it.

Does that mean that all of the cheaper bags suck? Not at all. You can get some truly amazing wheeled backpacks for less than $100, which is a really good deal. But they’re not going to be backpacks from well-known brands.

If you want to go with Osprey or a similar high-end brand, you will have to spend a lot more money. But there’s no doubt that you will get a premium travel backpack that you can use for years to come.

Laptop Compartment

So, not all of the packs featured here have a dedicated laptop compartment, and those are usually travel backpacks. If this is a must-have feature for you, be sure to check the pros and cons boxes to see if a backpack has a laptop compartment. And you can also check the size of the sleeve/compartment in the same section, and see if it can actually fit your laptop.

Our Top Choices For Rolling Backpack

Can’t decide which of these wheeled backpacks you should buy? That’s fine – go with one of our three top choices, and you won’t have any regrets! The best rolling backpack overall is the Wenger Synergy pack .  It has all of the features you could possibly need from a wheeled backpack, including  thick padding and ventilation on the back panel and harness.

And it has a triple padded 16” laptop sleeve,  which will do a great job at protecting your tech. That’s in addition to the  13” tablet sleeve  that can easily fit a smaller laptop. On top of all that, this backpack has a very  roomy main compartment,  which is suitable for both books and clothes.

• Triple Protect padded 16" laptop pocket with dedicated 12.9" tablet pocket
• Zippered mesh accessories pocket

Osprey Sojourn is without a doubt the best option for travel and as carry on luggage.  It’s an amazing backpack with a spacious main compartment, multiple internal pockets for easy organization, and tie-down straps that keep everything in place.

And with the  ventilation and thick padding in the backpanel and shoulder harness , you’ll stay comfortable even when you’re carrying it on your back. Its only fault is the lack of a dedicated laptop compartment, so consider if you’re okay with not having that feature before you get the pack.

• Lightweight, high-rolling clearance HighRoad Chassis provides a smooth ride over any surface
• Long haul capable deployable harness, hip belt and back panel for ultimate carry comfort

The Aoking wheeled backpack is easily the best everyday option. With oversized wheels, it is the only backpack that can handle being wheeled up and down the stairs, which is something we all do if we’re being honest.

It has a spacious main compartment with a 17” laptop sleeve, a front compartment with an organizer panel, and a padded and ventilated backpanel and harness. And it comes with a detachable wheel cover, which is super easy to clean.

Head to Amazon to see the exact prices of these backpacks. And if you still haven’t found the right backpack for you, check out our related posts for more options!

RELATED POSTS: BEST CARRY ON LUGGAGE WITH LAPTOP COMPARTMENT BEST EDC BACKPACKS

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The 12 Best Rolling Backpacks in 2023 [School, Work, Travel]

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

767 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 63 U.S. States Visited: 9

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

29 Published Articles 3091 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 45 U.S. States Visited: 28

Things To Consider With Rolling Backpacks

1. rolling backpack with a built-in workspace, 2. premium quality rolling backpack for travel, 3. a rolling bag with students in mind, 4. ergonomically and sleekly designed, 5. great at keeping tech safe, 6. a rolling bag designed for kids, 7. a perfect bag for older kids, 8. excellent choice for business use, 9. a great rolling backpack that won’t break the bank, 10. guaranteed to keep you organized, 11. a big brand you can rely on, 12. ergonomically-designed backpack for comfort, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

Between school, work, and travel, people are always on the go, often carrying books, laptops, and other essentials with them. Having a shoulder bag or traditional duffle can cause back pain, which is where rolling backpacks come in.

A rolling backpack allows you the space to be able to carry everything you might need without any discomfort.

A rolling backpack should give you enough room to carry anything from books and computers to overnight travel essentials. Not all rolling backpacks are made equally, however. So before you buy one for yourself, here are a few things to consider:

Most rolling backpacks follow similar designs, however, you can divide them into 2 more specific categories:

• Unstructured Design: These backpacks are typically made of a soft fabric. They don’t have a structure of their own and look like traditional backpacks, just with wheels. If they’re empty, the bag will cave in or fold over.
• Structured Design: These are backpacks that are “hard” in their design. They have a firm structure though they’re covered in fabric. Typically these bags will have the same shape and structure, whether they’re empty or full.

You should consider what sized backpack you’ll need before you make a purchase. For example, if you use your rolling backpack to carry office essentials, you’ll likely need a smaller bag than if you use your bag for overnight travel.

Smaller bags are ideal for short commutes or for carrying basic necessities or school supplies. Larger backpacks are ideal for traveling or for carrying larger quantities of items.

Type of Wheels

Since their ability to roll is the key characteristic of rolling backpacks, it’s important to make sure the wheels on the bag you’re looking at fit your needs.

If you plan to roll your bag on the street or up and down stairs, you’ll want to make sure your bag’s wheels are large, durable, and, preferably, rubber, as they’ll tolerate more wear and tear .

Instead, if you’ll primarily be rolling your bag on smooth, flat floors, then you can opt for a bag with smaller wheels that are made of less durable material.

Once again, the reason you’re purchasing the bag will determine the backpack material you should opt for.

Softer and lightweight materials will be best if you plan to carry or wear your bag from time to time. A sturdy material will instead offer more protection if you intend to almost exclusively use your backpack like a trolley.

Bottom Line: You should also consider waterproof or water-resistant options if you plan to take your bag to places where it will be exposed to the elements, such as on camping trips.

Type of Protection

Bags that are designed for technology will have more padding and different pockets to protect your electronics . In comparison, bags designed for school supplies will likely have fewer protective compartments.

The 12 Best Rolling Backpacks

Not all rolling backpacks are designed the same. Countless options and little design differences can make it difficult to choose which bag is right for you.

We’ve done the legwork for you and compiled this list of the best rolling backpacks currently on the market. We’ve looked at the pros, cons, and all the other essentials you should consider when deciding which backpack you should buy.

Targus Compact Rolling Backpack

It’s becoming increasingly common for people who work in offices to forgo a briefcase for something a little more functional, like a backpack. If that sounds like you, then the compact rolling backpack by Targus is a great option.

The backpack has 7 compartments to keep things organized, including a laptop pocket. Thus, you can carry everything you need to transport between home and the office. It even has a pocket suitable for clothing for short work trips.

When empty, the bag weighs just over 2 pounds, making it a lightweight option that can be used for daily commutes and business trips. The bag functions as a full workstation, so it’s been designed to allow you to do business on the go.

What We Like:

• Multi-purpose

What We Don’t Like:

• The clothing compartment is small and could cause wrinkles

Hot Tip: If you’re in need of a safe way to transport your tech, consider our guide to the best laptop backpacks to buy for travel .

Samsonite MVS Rolling Backpack

If you’re looking for an all-in-one rolling backpack you can use for work, school, and travel, this option from Samsonite is one to consider. The bag is padded and felt-lined. So, your valuables are protected, and you can carry the bag comfortably if you decide to use its back straps.

The bag also has multiple zipped pockets to easily keep yourself organized. It even has a zippered water bottle pocket, so you don’t have to worry about your bottle falling out or getting lost.

The bag is spacious enough to carry a full day’s worth of books as well as a computer and any other work or school essentials you might need. You don’t have to worry about juggling multiple bags.

• Ergonomically designed
• The price point

MATEIN Water Resistant College Wheeled Laptop Backpack

Students have to carry a lot of supplies. Between books, laptops, and other equipment, it can be heavy carrying it all on your back. That’s why MATEIN’s rolling backpack is a good option.

This bag helps students organize everything they need without causing back or shoulder problems. It’s got enough space to carry a 15.6-inch laptop, which is more than enough for most students.

It also comes with multiple pockets protected with water-resistant zippers. You can easily walk in the rain without worrying about your books or tech getting wet and damaged.

There’s even a compartment designed specifically for clothing, so you can take this bag on overnight trips or as a carry-on bag without wrinkles.

• Water-resistant
• Becomes oversized when completely full

Kipling Zea 15″ Laptop Rolling Backpack

Kipling is a leader in bags and luggage, and its rolling backpacks are no different. This backpack is made of durable polyester, meaning you don’t have to worry about rips or tears. You can have the peace of mind that your bag will last through years of regular use.

The bag is also water-resistant to keep your personal items safe, whether you’re carrying tech or important documents. When empty, the bag is less than 5 pounds, putting it on the lighter end for rolling backpacks.

You can also easily maneuver the bag thanks to its 4 wheels which each smoothly rotates at 360 degrees. The bag can hold up to 18 liters of gear, so you’ll be able to carry whatever you need.

• Carry-on-sized
• Wheels can damage on rough surfaces

Targus Mobile Tech Traveler EcoSmart Rolling Backpack

This extra large backpack from Targus is the perfect option if you’re looking for a bag that will keep your tech safe from harm. It has a semi-solid clamshell design, so your personal items have a nice buffer against any bumps or damage.

The bag is also expandable, and you can adjust it between a 35- and 40-liter capacity. That means you don’t have to worry about damaging anything by over-stuffing your backpack or juggling multiple bags.

You can easily convert the bag between a traditional backpack and a rolling trolley as well. It’s also extremely lightweight, coming in at under 3 pounds when it’s empty, making it easy to travel with.

• Made of recycled material
• Shows wear and tear

Tilami Kids Rolling Backpack

If you’re in the market for a good rolling backpack for the kid(s) in your life, Tilami has an excellent option for you.

This backpack option was designed specifically for modern-day kids. That means you get the practicality of a heavy-duty bag that’s good for tech and will keep items safe. However, you also get an ergonomic design that’s perfect for walking down school hallways.

The bag comes with 4 pockets to help young students stay organized, all of which are protected by a smooth-glide but durable zipper. There’s also a mesh bottle pocket. While the bag is a rolling backpack, you can easily cover the wheels and use it as a traditional book bag as well.

• Numerous design options
• Won’t fit some lockers

J World New York Sundance Rolling Backpack

Teens who are looking for a rolling backpack to make carrying supplies easier will love this model from J World New York. Kids today have to carry not just books but laptops and tablets as well. That means they need a backpack that will keep their precious tech safe.

This bag has a laptop pocket that’s padded and protected. Unlike other bags, this option is large enough to also hold multiple books, notebooks, and more.

The telescopic handle can also lock at multiple heights, so it can last years as your child grows. In fact, its tallest height is suitable for people who are 6 foot 3 inches tall. Each bag also has reflective tape in its design, so it’s safe to use at night.

• Quiet wheels
• The straps aren’t as durable as the rest of the backpack

High Sierra Freewheel Wheeled Laptop Backpack

People who are looking for a bag that is just as comfortable as a traditional backpack as it is as a rolling option will love this High Sierra design.

The bag is made out of lightweight, fully-padded material. So not only will it keep your items safe, but it will also be more comfortable to carry. The wheels and handle can also be hidden when not in use for extra comfort.

The bag has a large capacity, so you can keep everything you need organized. However, if you need to carry more supplies with you, the bag is equipped with a triangle clip you can use for that purpose. The bag also has a reflective strip for low-light use.

• Hideaway wheels
• Zippers could be more robust

Hot Tip: Check out our detailed guide on the best travel backpacks for men and women for options to carry on or check.

Rockland Double Handle Rolling Backpack

Rolling backpacks can get expensive. If you’re looking for an option that’s budget-friendly, this bag by Rockland is the way to go. This bag is affordable without giving up performance.

The bag is large enough to fit anything you might need for a day at work or school. However, it’s also been designed to be useful for short overnight trips as well. The bag has a plastic stand to keep it from tipping over, so you don’t have to worry about balancing it just to try to keep your items safe.

It’s also got comfortable mesh straps for traditional backpack use and a telescopic handle to use the wheels. The wheels themselves will glide smoothly on most surfaces without any issues.

• Multiple zippered pockets
• Not very padded

Everest Deluxe Wheeled Backpack

If you hate backpacks that ruin your organization, consider this option from Everest. This bag has numerous zippered pockets of different sizes, so you will always know where everything is.

The bag has easy-gliding wheels that allow you to hurry down halls and sidewalks. However, if you need both hands free, you can simply wear the bag comfortably on your shoulders, thanks to its padded straps.

The bag offers extra protection to your items thanks to its compression straps that will keep your things from shifting around. The bag is also water-resistant and breathable. Not only will your personal items be protected from rain and water splashes, but also from humidity build-up. There’s no need to worry about mildew.

• Super spacious
• Seams aren’t reenforced

JanSport Driver 8 Rolling Backpack

If you want a trusty rolling backpack, you can depend on JanSport has you covered with its Driver 8 bag. JanSport has made a name for itself in the backpack world, which includes its rolling bags.

This bag is made of 100% water-resistant and durable polyester . So no matter the weather conditions, you can use this backpack without any worries.

The bag also comes equipped with 3 zippered pockets to keep you organized and keep your stuff safe. You can also take this bag along on any adventures you go on since it’s small enough to count as a piece of carry-on luggage.

JanSport is also known for its eye-catching designs. You have multiple color and pattern choices available to suit your personal style.

• Great padding
• Noisy wheels

EVERKI Atlas Wheeled Laptop Backpack

Comfort is one of the most important aspects of a backpack, and this option from EVERKI keeps that in mind.

Being able to organize your items without overstuffing or damaging anything is more than possible with this bag. You can easily adjust the main pocket to fit laptops that measure between 13 and 17 inches. You also have 4 other zipped pockets and multiple other compartments to keep yourself organized.

If you want to use the bag like a traditional backpack, you can do so comfortably, thanks to its padded straps. You can also use the chest strap to make sure the bag’s weight is evenly distributed to reduce strain.

Unlike other bags, this option also has nearly-silent wheels , so you can roll it without creating much noise.

• The premium price

The idea of what an ideal rolling backpack is will change depending on your personal needs. While most bags will have straps and a handle to allow for different transport options, other features can vary.

You can find waterproof bag options, bags with extra compartments, and bags designed to carry tech products safely. Hopefully, this list will help you narrow down your decision about which backpack is the right option for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are rolling backpacks worth it.

If you suffer from back pain or you have to carry multiple books or pieces of tech, then a rolling backpack might be worth it for you. They offer both hands-free transport when you use their shoulder straps and an easier, less tiring way to carry weight when rolled.

How much can rolling backpacks carry?

Rolling backpacks can have varying carrying capacities. Smaller backpacks, or those designed for children, may just be able to hold a few books. Larger backpacks are usually designed to also function as an airplane carry-on or travel bags. Different bags will also have different compartment layouts, which can also affect the amount they can carry.

What can you use rolling backpacks for?

Rolling backpacks are multi-purpose. Most people likely think about their uses in schools, however, they can suit different needs. They’re often used as replacements for traditional briefcases now that most people take computers with them to work. They’re also used for travel purposes and as overnight bags.

Can I add wheels to my backpack?

You may wonder if you can convert a traditional backpack into a rolling bag if you already have one. However, this isn’t recommended. While it might not be impossible to do, traditional bags aren’t designed to be wheeled. They won’t have a proper handle, and their structure may not be suitable to be rolled.

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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The Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks

By Kit Dillon

Kit Dillon is a writer focused on bags and travel gear. He has worked for Wirecutter for a decade and lost count of the number of bags he has tested.

When you open up your favorite carry-on travel backpack, it should feel like you’re opening the door to a well-organized closet or sitting down at a clean desk, with everything in the right place and easy to reach.

This is your moment to center yourself, no matter how chaotic the journey.

What we considered

A 45-liter bag maximizes overhead space but can get heavy when fully packed; 35-liter bags tend to be more manageable.

A bag with a clamshell design opens like a book and is the easiest to pack, but a bag that opens traditionally tends to have more structure.

Ideally, a travel backpack has handles on all sides—especially the bottom—so you can pull it out of overhead bins or from under seats.

Some internal pockets are useful, but major organizing is better managed with packing cubes.

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack and the larger Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L offer the best combination of features, quality, and durability. Both bags are exemplary carry-on travel backpacks that are designed for comfort, durability, and organization. Though these backpacks are great as companion bags for any trip, they’re designed to ultimately replace all of your other luggage and become your exclusive bag as you travel.

This style of packing is not for everyone, but once some people try it, they’re forever hooked. Finding the right bag is a personal choice, though, and no single bag will appeal to everyone. That’s why we also have picks that are great for people who travel for work , others that are designed to be carried over long distances , and a bag that’s basically luggage on your back .

The research

Why you should trust us, who this is for, best small carry-on bag for most situations: cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack, best large bag for most situations: peak design travel backpack 45l, best mobile office: patagonia black hole mlc 45l, best bag for long journeys on foot: osprey farpoint 40 and fairview 40, best bag if you need a large suitcase on your back: tortuga travel backpack pro 40l, other good carry-on travel backpacks, how we picked and tested, the competition.

I’ve been covering aspects of luggage and travel bag design for Wirecutter for nearly a decade, and I have personally researched, tested, and compared hundreds of bags in that time. I personally try to do most of my travel with a single backpack, whenever possible. I spent nine months roaming around Hawaii with not much more than that, and I spent another six months nomadically couch-surfing in New York City.

I reached out to writers who specialize in traveling the world carrying everything they need in a single bag: Eytan Levy, the owner and operator of the Snarky Nomad travel website; James Feess, founder of The Savvy Backpacker ; and Sharon Gourlay, of the Where’s Sharon? travel website. I also spoke with moderators of Reddit’s r/onebag and r/heronebag forums, as well as with Chase Reeves, bag fanatic, reviewer, and owner of Matterful .

We researched and tested bags designed for those who want to travel light and stay flexible while flying, without the burden of checking luggage. For some people, the challenge of cutting down a packing list is intimidating. But if you can get past that initial hurdle, traveling with a single bag is a revelation. With fewer items, you have more time to concentrate on and appreciate the journey.

• When you’re not loaded down by heavy luggage, it’s easy to remain more mobile. And it’s easier to adjust your plans mid-trip. If you’re willing to do laundry on the road, then one bag is all you need to travel indefinitely. At its heart, one-bag travel allows you to discover more—not just about the places you’re going but also about yourself and what you really need day to day.
• Size and weight still matter. If you desire more creature comforts or more gear, or if you plan to be away for a long time across multiple climates, you’ll want a bigger travel backpack . These larger bags tend not to be carry-on-friendly, however, especially in Europe, so be prepared to check them.
• No single backpack is perfect for everyone. Before you make any purchase, consider some basic points. How much can you carry? And where do you usually visit: the city or outback? Travel gear should feel like a welcome companion—there to support you when you need it but unobtrusive when you don’t.

45-liter bag vs. 35-liter bag

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

A versatile small pack for a week or a weekend.

This durable bag’s clamshell design makes it easy to organize your stuff. And due to its strap design, this bag can be worn on your back or carried in your hand while you’re on the move.

Buying Options

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack is an easy-to-organize, comfortable-to-carry bag for getaways lasting just a few days or a whole week.

It’s one bag that can do it all. This is a great all-around bag for any traveler who’s dedicated to packing light, or for a smaller person who wants less to carry. There are handles on all four sides of this bag, so it’s easy to grab no matter where you’ve stowed it. It’s also protected by a full lifetime warranty, and it has the build quality to back that up. After more than four years of testing, this single backpack (plus a personal item ) has replaced nearly every travel bag or piece of luggage I use.

It comes in various sizes, but we think the middle-of-the-road version is the best. Cotopaxi also makes the Allpa in 28-liter and 42-liter sizes. But for us, the 35-liter bag is the best option. At 42 liters, this bag becomes heavy for most people to carry when it is fully packed, and we’d prefer that it had a more-robust hip belt. At 28 liters, the bag becomes a touch small for most people, and its internal organization feels fussy for shorter trips, such as an overnight. Cotopaxi also makes a hip pack , which is designed to fit snugly into the Allpa bag’s front top compartment. It’s a neat little addition to the bag, and it is worth getting if you like wearing fanny packs while you travel.

It’s organized, easy to pack, and easy to carry. The Allpa bag has a clamshell design, so it opens like a hard-sided suitcase—a large YKK zipper runs around three sides of the bag, allowing it to fall open into two halves when unzipped. On the right side is a deep compartment, spacious enough for two large packing cubes or half a suitcase’s worth of clothing (which you access through a mesh zippered flap). On the left, there’s space for one more medium-size packing cube behind a zippered flap. Above that there are two smaller pockets with high-visibility backing—useful when you’re looking for hard-to-differentiate personal items.

It’s secure but still accessible. The Allpa pack has two side-access zippers—great for on-the-go access, especially when the bag is hanging from your shoulder. One of these reveals a flat computer pocket with a padded false bottom; so if you drop the bag, it won’t land on the corner of your computer. The other reveals a “secret” pocket with a hidden zipper and access to the main compartment. All of the main compartment zippers are protected by security loops, which you thread the zipper through at the end of its run. This prevents anyone from subtly or quickly grabbing a zipper and opening your bag when you aren’t paying attention.

It’s comfortable to carry. The Allpa bag’s hip belt—which can be removed while the bag is on your back—is substantial enough that it’s comfortable to wear when you need it. With or without the hip belt, the Allpa bag is comfortable to carry over long distances. However, folks who have longer torsos (over 19 inches) may find that the waist belt sits a little high off the hips, unless you fully extend the shoulder straps. Speaking of shoulder straps, unlike the ones on our other picks, the Allpa bag’s straps are contoured to fit people who have large or small chests. It’s not a specifically gendered design, but our female tester noticed the improvement right away.

The Allpa pack is made with 1680-denier ballistic nylon, similar to the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 45 . (Denier is a measure of a fabric’s fiber thickness.) It feels similar to a strong canvas, but it has a more prominent weave. This is the type of bag that’s as easy to toss into an overhead compartment as it is into the back of a rusty pickup truck. And it also includes a rainfly, which is unique in this category.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• Though this pack is well organized for packing, it’s less ideal as a mobile office. The Allpa pack has a minimal amount of administrative organization—places to keep pens and papers, spaces to hold tickets, and so forth. This is where a good personal item comes in handy. However, if you want to travel with just this one bag, there are a few nooks you can hide things in. The front organizer is deep enough that you can also fit several small organizing pouches, if you want, or the aforementioned fanny pack.
• We prefer the model without the TPU front. Cotopaxi does enjoy playing around with fabrics and colors. Sometimes the company has released the Allpa pack without the TPU-lined front panel. The TPU panel improves water resistance, but after many years of traveling with our bag, we’ve found that the TPU layering can begin to flake in spots.

Capacity: 35 liters Weight: 3 pounds 5 ounces Main compartment access: clamshell opening Style: adventurous Colors: assorted

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

An easily customizable large bag for long trips and expensive gear.

This bag was built with photographers in mind. Yet most travelers will appreciate its easy accessibility, clever tuck-away straps, and the elegant way the bag expands and contracts. The accessory cubes cost extra, though.

The Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is a good choice for those carrying more expensive gear—especially camera gear. It’s also great for those who prefer a large, backpack-based packing system.

One bag provides many configurations. Some bags in this category are built to do one thing extremely well—be carried on your back. But the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is built to adapt. It’s the Swiss Army knife of backpacks: adjustable, customizable, and (if you spring for the extra cubes and organizers) an almost perfect system for a photographer or gearhead on the move. Most bags’ expanding mechanisms aren’t worth the extra zipper they’re built on, and they look about as attractive as a boiled ham splitting out of its plastic packaging. That’s not the case with the Peak Design: This bag looks just as good fully packed at 45 liters as it does compressed to a 30-liter daypack.

It’s expandable, with clever folds and zippers. You can access the bag through a back panel (which doubles as a computer and tablet pouch) as well as a front one (if you unzip the pass-through divider). You can also get into the main compartment via two wing-like trapezoidal flaps, which run along each side of the pack. In its natural shape, the Travel Backpack holds 35 liters, but an expansion zipper lets the bag swell to 45 liters. If you want to use the bag as a daypack, you fold in the top corners and snap them down, reducing the bag’s volume to a slim 30 liters. In this configuration, it will still feel larger than a normal daypack, but we think that’s a small compromise for being able to use one backpack as both your travel bag and your daily explorer. The bag itself consists of 400-denier nylon and polyester fabrics. It feels tough but not as tough as some other bags we’ve tested, such as the Cotopaxi Allpa.

It has fold-away straps, for easier storage. The Peak Design lets you tuck its shoulder and hip straps away when you’re not using them. But unlike any other bag we’ve ever tested, this pack has magnetic flaps on the back panel that open and close with an almost magical snap. Once you’ve played with them, you’ll wonder why every backpack doesn’t have something similar. A small, childish part of me still gets excited about tucking away the straps when I put the Peak Design into an overhead bin. Although the straps are thin, they’re still comfortable. The hip belt isn’t quite as plush as the one on the Tortuga pack; still, even when the Peak Design is fully loaded, the belt doesn’t pinch or dig into the body.

It’s great for carrying expensive gear. If you travel with a camera, you don’t have to use Peak Design’s camera cubes , but they do make carrying that gear a whole lot easier. The cubes come in five sizes. And if they’re situated properly in the bag with the provided clips, they line up with the Travel Backpack’s side-access flaps for quick access. Caleigh Waldman (a photographer for this piece and, full disclosure, my spouse) took this bag across the country for a wedding shoot. “I want this backpack,” she said after three weeks of travel. “I want to travel with it everywhere. With my cameras. Without my cameras. It doesn’t matter. I want to travel with it.”

• It’s expensive—especially if you commit to the entire system of packing and camera cubes.
• More complexity means more things that can break. The adjustable design and multiple zippers do add complexity, and complexity adds potential weaknesses. Peak Design covers all of its bags with a lifetime warranty , which should alleviate most people’s concerns. But if you’re particularly hard on your gear and still need to carry as much as possible, you might consider the Tortuga bag instead.

Capacity: 45 liters Weight: 4½ pounds Main compartment access: back-panel loader Style: minimalist and unobtrusive Color: black, sage

Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L

Combines more organization with a simple interior.

This bag’s split interior makes organizing easy. Those who travel for work will appreciate this bag’s dedicated panels for organizing tech, books, papers, and assorted miscellaneous items.

If you travel often for business and prefer a bag that’s much easier to work out of than most of our other picks, you may like the Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L . This bag has a front panel and assorted pockets that make it feel like a small traveling office.

It’s built like luggage but organized like your office. Of all the bags we recommend, the MLC (short for Maximum Legal Carry) comes closest to being a suitcase on your back, due to its large size, simple interior, and minimal external features. The MLC is also one of the simplest bags we tested, divided into two leaves (imagine a book with only one page), with a main compartment for packing and a second compartment for document organization and tech storage. The MLC has a built-in laptop compartment that fits 17-inch laptops and is situated close to your back; this protects the computer and keeps its weight closer to your body.

Despite its size, it’s comfortable enough to carry. Most carry-on backpacks of this size, without frames, become somewhat unwieldy when fully packed. Thankfully, the Black Hole MLC bag, like the Cotopaxi Allpa, is a welcome exception to this rule. The MLC has two shoulder straps, a hip belt, and an optional shoulder strap, for easy carrying. When they're not in use, or when you’re checking your bag, all of the straps can be stowed away easily. When fully loaded, the bag was pleasant to carry—not as comfortable as the Peak Design or the Osprey, but decent enough. I wouldn’t want to carry it all day across a city, but I wouldn’t mind carrying it through an airport to a car and to a hotel.

It’s built from high-quality materials, with durability in mind. This pack is made from recycled polyester, and the fabric is woven in a cross-weave that’s very similar to what Patagonia uses in its long-lasting Black Hole series of duffle bags . This is a material I’ve come across a bunch with Patagonia gear, and I’ve tested it thoroughly; it’s very tough. The front of the bag is coated in a weather-resistant TPU, for extra protection from the elements. The bag has large YKK zippers (the industry leader) and smaller YKK zippers throughout. Unlike the Cotopaxi Allpa pack, the Black Hole MLC bag has no security loops.

It comes with one of the best repair programs and a lifetime warranty. Similar to our other picks, the MLC is backed by an excellent lifetime warranty , and we’ve always found that Patagonia’s repair program goes above and beyond other comparable companies.

• We wish the Maximum Legal Carry (despite the name) came in a few more sizes. The 45-liter capacity may be intimidating for some people, and there is no alternative.

Capacity: 45 liters Weight: 3 pounds 10 ounces Main compartment access: clamshell Style: retro Colors: tan, black, olive, green

Osprey Farpoint 40

For long distances on foot.

A great starter option for one-bag travel, this bag is easy to pack, adaptable to most situations, and sturdy enough to take with you as you travel the world.

Osprey Fairview 40

For long distances and smaller torsos.

A scaled-down version of the Farpoint, this bag has shoulder straps that are slightly lower, to keep the bag’s bulk more aligned with smaller torsos.

Updated in 2023, the Osprey Farpoint 40 and Fairview 40 packs are both built around a hiking backpack frame that’s easy to carry over long distances.

It’s built for travel but designed for hiking. The Farpoint 40 bag is well made, easy to pack, and comfortable to carry over most mid-length distances—such as walking across a city for an afternoon. (For simplicity’s sake, everything we say here about the Farpoint bag also applies to the Fairview bag.) Osprey makes excellent backpacks for hauling around, and its lifetime warranty is renowned within the industry . The Farpoint pack also has an optional messenger bag–style strap, which offers some flexibility when you’re maneuvering tight spaces like subways or crowded city centers.

It’s simple to pack, but not as spacious as it seems. Opening the bag reveals a clamshell design; it’s deep enough to accommodate most large items, yet you won’t have to fumble awkwardly with zippers once it’s time to close up the bag. The feeling you get is not unlike when you’re packing a bit of sturdy luggage, and that’s something we love about bags like this one—especially when you use packing cubes . Osprey says this bag, when fully packed, can carry 40 liters. But after using the Farpoint bag for a few years, we’ve decided that its rounded shape seems to cut into that theoretical packable space more than other bags do. In practice, the Farpoint pack’s available space is closer to—but still less than—that of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L .

It’s the easiest bag to carry among our picks. Like all Osprey bags, the Farpoint 40 has very comfortable shoulder straps. The years of design and consideration Osprey has put into its hiking backpacks are quite evident in the Farpoint 40. After more than seven years of long-term testing this bag, we’re still surprised by how great it feels to wear when fully packed. Crucially, the straps of the Farpoint 40 stow away neatly behind a zippered panel. However, when you’re using the shoulder straps, the design forces you to also use the hip straps. Though this isn’t a huge issue, if you prefer a sleeker look or would rather have the option of using shoulder straps without hip straps, the Cotopaxi Allpa pack is more flexible, and it lets you hide the waist straps while the bag is on your back.

The Fairview 40 has the same features, in a scaled-down size. The Farpoint 40 and the Fairview 40 packs basically have the same design, but the Fairview pack is made for someone with a more-diminutive torso. It’s also slightly lighter. However, it has the features and durability of the Farpoint bag. It also has the same hip belt and adjustability. On both, the chest-strap clip is also equipped with a small security whistle that’s surprisingly loud. It’s a handy feature for anyone traveling in unfamiliar environments.

• For a smaller carry-on travel backpack, this one has little to not like. However, we do wish Osprey would trade some of the sleeker contours for a little more interior space.

Capacity: 35 liters Weight (Farpoint): 3 pounds 3 ounces Weight (Fairview): 3 pounds 2 ounces Main compartment access: front-panel loader Style: active Colors (Farpoint): green (Gopher), gray (Tunnel Vision), blue (Muted Space), black Colors (Fairview): blue (Winter Night), red (Zircon), blue (Night Jungle), black

Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L

A suitcase to carry on your back.

For dedicated single-bag travelers, this water-resistant, durable bag is easy to pack and to travel with. And it’s comfortable to wear over endless miles—as long as you don’t mind the heavier weight.

The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L maximizes packing space in a bag that’s durable, water-resistant, and customizable to fit most torso lengths (there’s also a 30L version ), with plenty of organizational features to suit any digital nomad.

It’s like a suitcase, with backpack straps. The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L is built to occupy the maximum carry-on space available. It’s a nearly perfect blend of backpack and luggage. On the outside, its tear-resistant sailcloth and sealed zippers provide ample protection from sharp objects and the elements. Opening the main clamshell zipper reveals a cavernous interior and a few organizational features that make the bag a cinch to pack. The front panel is a particular standout, great for keeping track of electronics and chargers. Of all the bags we tested, the Tortuga strikes the closest balance between the carrying comfort of a hiking backpack and the space and organization of a piece of luggage.

It’s as easy to pack as luggage. When it comes to packing, the Tortuga pack has a soothingly minimal interior, as any good suitcase should. In addition to the bag’s cavernous main pocket, its interior lid has a large vented panel. The panel is too narrow to hold additional packing cubes, but it’s great for holding light jackets or doubling as a dirty-laundry bag (if you’re really committed to one-bag travel). The Tortuga is available as a 40-liter pack (the maximum space for a carry-on bag), which we tested; there is also a 30-liter version, which is compliant with some intra-European flights. The more-diminutive version is a decent choice for weekend travel or for minimalist travelers—but for those uses, we prefer the space-saving profile and extra internal organization of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L bag.

It’s very customizable. The Tortuga pack is the most adjustable model we tested, thanks to its adjustable torso length, shoulder straps, and waist-belt system. The adjustable strap system lets you manipulate the location of the shoulder straps (video) to fit a wider variety of body sizes, in both the 30- and 40-liter versions. Of the packs we’ve tested, this one (with its included load-adjuster straps at the top, to prevent the bag’s weight from sagging toward your lumbar region) is the best at distributing its weight (4½ pounds when empty—roughly 1½ pounds more than most of our other picks, except the Peak Design ). The hip straps are removable if you need, but the shoulder straps are not stowable.

• Its straps don’t stow away. Some people, especially those who are hard on their gear, may consider not being able to remove or stow the shoulder straps (as they can with our other picks, like the Cotopaxi Allpa ) a disqualifying factor. But after years of testing, traveling with, and occasionally checking our bag, we haven’t had an issue. However, if these mysteries beneath the airport also make you nervous, you might prefer our picks with easy-to-stow straps, such as the Peak Design.
• It's heavy. We’ve also fielded complaints from some testers who said that older models of this bag were too heavy for them to carry, even with the padded hip belt and adjustable straps. The additional padding does add weight. At 4½ pounds, this latest Tortuga bag is more than half a pound lighter than it used to be—the difference is noticeable—and it weighs the same as the equally large Peak Design pack. But if you think you would struggle carrying this model, we strenuously encourage you to consider one of our more-manageable picks, like the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L.

Capacity: 40 liters Weight: 4½ pounds Main compartment access: clamshell opening Style: minimal, with a rigid construction Color: black

If you want to travel like a backpacker but also fit in at a board meeting (and you have the budget for it): Consider the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 45 . This bag’s reputation for durability, adaptability, and a low-key aesthetic make it a favorite among many dedicated one-bag travelers. And after testing it, we think it’s a great bag too. That said, for the bag to really stand out against other backpacks—and to take full advantage of its carrying adaptability—you need to buy the internal frame , the hip belt , and (if you’re traveling with a suit or jacket) the shoulder strap . On a bag that already costs $330, all of this adds up. Everything about the Tom Bihn bag (the fabric, the zippers, the quality of construction) feels like an upgrade from other bags, but it’s simply too pricey, and its design is too rarified and specific for most people. The biggest flaw, from our perspective—apart from the price—is that the Tom Bihn bag lacks a dedicated laptop pocket. In its place, the company sells laptop sleeves (a fine version if you don’t have one) that clip into the bag’s central compartment. Not everyone needs a dedicated laptop pocket, but we prefer the more secure feeling of bags that do.

If you want a budget pick (but only when it’s on sale): The eBags Mother Lode Travel Backpack (our former budget pick) is still your best budget option, if you can catch it on sale for at least half off the list price. It’s not comfortable enough for trekking long distances on foot, but there are plenty of external pockets for organization, a laptop sleeve (which holds the weight of your computer high up on your shoulders), and an easy-to-access main compartment. This pack also has the largest capacity of any bags we tested, expanding to 65 liters—well beyond any airline’s regulated 45-liter limit. However, the bag’s casual-to-basic looks might not be to everyone’s taste. In 2024, eBags raised the price of the Mother Lode to $200. We have seen it on sale for $100, and in our opinion it’s worth getting only at the sale price.

We’ve narrowed our specifications for a great bag to the following list of features, ordered from most relevant to least:

• Front- or back-panel loader or clamshell opening, for the main compartment: As with any good piece of luggage, with this type of bag, you should be able to open it and see everything you’ve packed. When you have a bag with a panel-loading or clamshell design—rather than a traditional, top-opening design—you can pack and unpack it just as you would a suitcase.

• Backpack strap comfort and design: You never know when you’ll be walking farther with your bag than you’d intended. The more comfortable and well designed the straps are, the easier traveling will be. “Ideally, you want a bag’s shoulder straps to adjust to the angle of your shoulders,” said Eytan Levy of Snarky Nomad. “Good shoulder straps are the difference between an easy trip and a hard trip.”
• Hip-belt comfort and design: A hip belt transfers heavy loads from your back and shoulders onto your hips, letting your legs—not your back—bear the brunt of the weight. Just having a waist belt is a plus, but having a padded and sculpted one—especially on bags with over 40 liters of volume—makes a world of difference.
• Material quality: Durability is critical for any type of luggage, but especially for a backpack that will be your only bag. Most bags worth considering are made of nylon, which resists abrasion more than polyester fabrics of similar density. Spending more, however, can get you exotic, light, and strong materials, such as Dyneema or sailcloth.
• Weight: Once the bags arrived, we weighed each one ourselves. Most of the bags weighed within a few pounds of one another. But unless you’re very strict with yourself, by the time you’re packed for a two-week journey, all bags are going to feel equally massive, even if one is just 2 pounds heavier than another when empty.
• Stowable straps: These are nice to have, but they aren’t absolutely necessary. “The more often you need to check a bag, the more often you need to hide away the straps,” Levy said. “But if the straps are tough enough, it doesn’t matter.”
• Accessory pocket layout and design: Some people will love an accessory pocket that has a specific space for everything; others may find that feature constricting and unadaptable. We prioritized bags with simple designs that guided our packing without constraining us.
• Style: This is purely subjective. We preferred bags that had a minimalist exterior style, but not all of our picks will please everyone. Most of the people we spoke with, however, preferred not to stick out like a tourist wearing a large, colorful backpack, if they could avoid it.

During testing, we flew across the country with these bags, took weekend trips to nearby cities, lived out of them on extended trips, and tried them locally in our daily routines. We also packed and unpacked each bag, using a standardized set of weeklong travel necessities and accessories, to see how well the internal organizational features (or lack thereof) aided or got in the way of efficient packing.

This is not a comprehensive list of all of the carry-on travel backpacks we have tested. We have removed any models that have been discontinued or that no longer meet our criteria.

The Away Outdoor Convertible Backpack 45L is a rare miss from the Away team. This bag is resoundingly average for the price. Although it’s made from excellent materials, the bag is let down by its overall design, which lacks any kind of structure or attention to comfort. There are better options.

The cheap, no-frills Cabin Max Metz bag is intriguing for the price. Any bag at this price should almost be considered disposable. That said, if you need a simple bag that costs less than a seat upgrade, this might be the way to go—unless you can pick up the eBags Motherlode bag for under $100, which we think is a better deal at that price.

The GeniusPack Travel Backpack is the only model we came across that tried to fit a suit into a travel backpack. Though some people might need that, we think those who have to travel with a suit (or clothes that require pressing) would be better off with a piece of carry-on luggage . GeniusPack now offers a second version of this bag, but our conclusion hasn’t changed.

For certain people, the GoRuck GR3 is almost worth the cost. It’s strong and simple and covered by an iron-clad repair guarantee. The removable hip belt is comfortable to wear, and it’s good at displacing the weight of a 45-liter backpack. This is a decent bag. After testing it, however, we weren’t thrilled with the internal Velcro lining for compatible Velcro packing cubes. Velcro isn’t great: It wears out, it’s difficult to keep clean, and it clings to dirt. That might seem like a small thing, but for the price, this bag should feel perfect.

The Minaal Carry-On 2.0 was designed to be a backpack for business people. But if you’re carrying it for business, you’re probably wearing at least a blazer, so you wouldn’t use a backpack in any case. If you’re a business traveler who falls more on the casual end of the business-casual spectrum, and you’re not on a budget, this is a well-thought-out pack. But we think our picks are more versatile for world travel, and they come at a better price. Minaal has since introduced a 3.0 version of this bag ; our thoughts about it remain the same.

The Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L is a slightly larger sibling of the Farpoint pack. The Sojourn Porter bag is about 2 inches longer, and it pushes right up to most airline limits. If you don’t mind possibly having to check your bag at the last minute, this would be an excellent alternative to the Farpoint pack.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Chase Reeves, Matterful.co , phone interview , October 10, 2018

Addison Ryan, moderator, r/onebag , email interview , September 8, 2018

Lindsay Lorraine Calderón, moderator, r/heronebag , phone interview , September 28, 2018

Meet your guide

Kit Dillon is a senior staff writer at Wirecutter. He was previously an app developer, oil derrick inspector, public-radio archivist, and sandwich shop owner. He has written for Popular Science, The Awl, and the New York Observer, among others. When called on, he can still make a mean sandwich.

Further reading

The Best Travel Backpack

by Geoffrey Morrison

For trips ranging from a week to multiple months, the Osprey Farpoint 55 and Fairview 55 carried everything we needed comfortably.

The Best Buy It for Life Backpack (Please Don’t Call It Tactical)

by Kit Dillon

A buy-it-for-a-lifetime backpack should last you for years of heavy use. But as with all investments, you need to decide if it makes sense for you.

Wirecutter’s Favorite Bags, Totes, Backpacks and Carryalls

by Truth Headlam

Whether you’re going to school, work, the gym, the store, or on vacay, you need a bag. Here’s the Wirecutter-recommended carrying gear we love most.

The Best Laptop Backpacks

by Zoe Vanderweide

A great laptop backpack protects your tech, is comfortable to carry, and looks good, too. These five bags are our favorites for wrangling your workday gear.

13 Best Travel Backpacks of 2024, Tested by Experts

Keep all your belongings safe and organized in a lightweight backpack.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Our top picks:

Best Overall Travel Backpack

Cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack.

Best Value Travel Backpack

Coofay travel backpack.

Most Versatile Travel Backpack

Peak design travel backpack 45l.

Best Weekender Travel Backpack

Away f.a.r convertible backpack 45l.

Best Carry-On Travel Backpack

Asenlin 40l travel backpack.

Best Travel Backpack for Backpacking

Osprey porter 46l travel pack.

Best Travel Backpack for Business Travel

Tumi alpha bravo search backpack.

Best Travel Backpack for Flying

Thule aion travel backpack.

Best Travel Backpack for Work

Samsonite silhouette 17 backpack.

Best Lightweight Travel Backpack

Osprey daylite plus daypack.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Herschel Kaslo Backpack Tech

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.

patagonia Patagonia Black Hole Pack - 25 L

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.

Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Backpack

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.

How we test travel backpacks

The Good Housekeeping Institute has been testing travel products and backpacks for decades.

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 (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. 

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8 best backpacks with wheels for smoother travel

From long-haul adventures to office commutes, these hybrid bags will take the weight off your shoulders, article bookmarked.

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Need a bag for all occasions? Then pick up a backpack with wheels. At first it might sound like a strange concept but, once you get one, you’ll be hooked.

These are the most versatile bags on the market, following you on every adventure, from city break to mountain hike – and even helping with your daily commute.

When you’re traversing difficult terrain or navigating multiple bags through an airport, these lifesavers can go on your back to leave you blissfully hands-free. When you’re moving through a city or carrying an especially heavy load, you can wheel them effortlessly along the pavement.

They are even more appealing if you have limited storage space at home – rather than buy and house multiple bags, you can have one that does it all.

When choosing our best backpacks with wheels, we were very particular about one thing: these bags – and it may sound obvious – should function perfectly well as backpacks and as roller luggage . Because what’s the point of purchasing a two-in-one if you’re having to compromise?

How we tested

From a backpack point of view, we wanted straps that could shoulder a reasonable amount of weight to balance the bag’s capacity, and be comfortable enough to wear at least through an airport. On the roller bag side of things, we were looking for smooth-wheeling functionality, a solid handle for easy manoeuvring, and a neat and easy way to tuck away backpack straps when not in use. We’ve only included the best backpacks with wheels here – the ones we felt proved to be good value for money. We sent all the others packing.

Related stories

The best backpacks with wheels for 2022 are:.

• Best overall – Samsonite roader laptop bag with wheels 55cm: £129, Samsonite.co.uk
• Best for functionality and style – Victorinox VX sport evo backpack on wheels: £170, Victorinox.com
• Best for maximising cabin allowance – Eastpak strapverz S: £145, Eastpak.com
• Best for day-to-day – Cath Kidston sweet pea frame wheeled backpack: £95, Cathkidston.com
• Best for large capacity – Osprey sojourn 60 travel pack: £275, Cotswoldoutdoor.com
• Best for outdoor adventures – Kathmandu hybrid 32l trolley: £185, Kathmandu.co.uk
• Best budget backpack with wheels – It Luggage 28l backpack with wheels: £40, Argos.co.uk
• Best for the office commute – Mountain Warehouse voyager 35l wheelie rucksack: £69.99, Mountainwarehouse.com

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Samsonite roader laptop bag with wheels, 55cm

• Best : Overall
• Dimensins : 55cm x 39cm x 22cm
• Volume : 28l
• Weight : 2.26k
• Colourways : 3

One of the titans of the luggage industry, Samsonite is known for making suitcases that are light, slick and smooth-wheeling. And the 28l roader fits that profile like a glove. The roller case functionality is excellent – responsive wheels feel like they could turn on a dime, while a smooth-gliding handle tucks away nicely in a dedicated pouch. We love the sleek interior material, too, which is easy to keep clean and feels the same as the material used in other Samsonite cases.

The bag itself is made with recyclex material – exactly 26 recycled 0.5l PET plastic bottles were used to make the fabric for the bag. The best bit, though? Whether you’re using it as a backpack or as a wheelie case, it never looks like a two-in-one hybrid. There’s zero compromise on style. That’s a giant tick from us.

Victorinox VX sport evo backpack on wheels

• Best : For functionality and style
• Dimensions : 26 x 38 x 54cm
• Volume : 37l
• Weight : 2.7kg
• Colourways : 2

Of all the bags out there, backpacks with wheels are not ones that you might consider “high fashion”. But then again, most of them aren’t made by Victorinox. The producers of the famous Swiss Army knife also do a roaring trade in sleek, built-to-last luggage, and that translates here to this good-looking hybrid. When you’re not using them, comfy padded straps tuck away quickly and easily into a dedicated middle pouch, making transitioning between pack and wheelie bag super quick. The handle is one of the sturdiest and smoothest we tried too, and the exterior is water-repellent. There’s a generous 37l capacity as well – enough to keep you going over a long weekend.

Eastpak strapverz S

• Best : For maximising cabin allowance
• Dimensions : 51cm x 32.5cm x 24cm
• Volume : 42l
• Weight : 2.49kg

Eastpak bags are made to take a knocking – we’ve had some for well over a decade that still look and operate almost as good as new. And this, the brand’s take on a backpack with wheels, is no exception. It comes with all the same classic lightness and roominess that is the signature of Eastpak bags, but with added straps that fold discreetly away in a zippered pouch. It is on the boxy side, which means when you wear it as a backpack, it basically looks like you have a wheelie bag strapped to your torso. It could be a little comfier, but on the flip side you get a cabin-sized bag that’s light and fits an absolute tonne (the capacity is 42l). A no-brainer for air travellers.

Cath Kidston sweet pea frame wheeled backpack

• Best : For day-to-day
• Dimensions : 29cm x 41cm x 18cm
• Volume : Not specified
• Weight : Not specified
• Colourways : 1

This cutesy Cath Kidston backpack – plastered with a print of blooming sweet peas – is the perfect pick for day-to-day use. It’s compact enough for toting around town on your back, then after you’ve popped by the supermarket or corner shop to pick up a few bits, you can convert it into a wheelie bag for the journey home. There’s a padded laptop compartment too, and clever top handles so you can even carry it like a handbag. It opens up pretty wide to quickly get stuff in and out, too. One more reason to buy? It has some eco-creds: that classic cool-kitsch Cath Kidston fabric is a hardy polyester that’s been made from recycled plastic bottles.

Osprey sojourn 60 travel pack

• Best : For large capacity
• Dimensions : 64cm x 36cm x 35cm
• Volume : 60l
• Weight : 3.87kg

This is an investment piece but you do get loads for your money. With a 60l capacity, this bag will easily squeeze in enough for a week – or longer, if you’re a pro packer. And yet, it’s built in a way to make carrying it on your back super comfortable, with a ventilated mesh layer and an adjustable harness and hipbelt for support. The thick base wheels are super smooth-rolling, and the double-bar retractable handle is grippy. Inside, compression straps securing clothes, and pockets for liquids and shoes, keep everything neat and tidy. On the outside, “straightjacket” compression keeps everything stable. You could take this on a tour through southeast Asia, a camping holiday or a city break to New York, and no matter what, it will keep up with you all the way.

Kathmandu hybrid 32l trolley

• Best : For outdoor adventures
• Dimensions : 56cm x 36cm x 23cm
• Volume : 32l
• Weight : 2.36kg

Kiwi brand Kathmandu knows the outdoors inside-out – it’s spent more than 30 years making kit for exploring the world’s wild corners, and is now a certified B-Corp. So, as you might imagine, this is a company that knows what makes a good explorer’s backpack. Kathmandu evolved its hybrid trolley to make it as light (2.36kg), strong and comfortable as possible, while still maximising volume (32l). The internal mesh pocket is handy for, say, separating out dirty laundry, while compression straps will let you squeeze in as much as possible. We love the flash of bright neon colour, too.

It Luggage 28l backpack with wheels

• Best : For budget
• Dimensions : 50cm x 33cm x 20cm
• Weight : 2.08kg

It may not be quite as stylish as some others on this list – the look is more corporate “biz traveller” than runway – but for the £40 price tag, this really is a small niggle. With a padded section to keep your laptop safe, a load of internal pockets and three zippered compartments, this bag has the same functionality as many others on the market and yet won’t hurt your bank balance. The polyester exterior seems like it could take a few hits, and we like that the fold-away shoulder straps are padded. There’s a 10-year manufacturer’s guarantee, too, which, for a bag of this price point, is a bonus.

Mountain Warehouse voyager 35l wheelie rucksack

• Best : For the office commute
• Dimensions : 49cm x 34cm x 20cm
• Volume : 35l

Looking for something to take to and from the office? Here’s your bag. The padded 15in compartment is the voyager’s main selling point – it will keep your laptop comfortably encased while you make the journey to your desk. The bag’s subtle wheels (tucked discreetly under a patch of fabric) make it look more like a “normal” backpack than some others. When it is time to tuck the straps away and put those rollers into motion, you’ll find the bag’s handle is sturdy and it holds as much as you could possibly need (it’s a roomy 35l). The heavy-duty fabric, meanwhile, feels built to last.

The verdict: Backpacks with wheels

With the very best backpacks with wheels, there’s no compromise – the bags should operate equally well as a pack and as a roller case, and look good doing either job too. For that reason, we’ve selected the Samsonite roader laptop bag with wheels as our best buy. For most occasions, whether it’s a weekend break or the office commute, this bag will work a treat.

Going on a long-haul adventure? Osprey’s sojourn 60 travel pack gives you all the capacity you could want, and is made to last. It’s not the cheapest backpack with wheels on the market by a long shot, but consider it an investment piece that you’ll use for many years.

Finally, we love the style-meets-functionality of the Victorinox VX sport evo backpack on wheels . If you thought hybrid bags couldn’t look stylish, this one’s here to change your mind.

For more advice check out our review of the best travel backpacks for every adventure

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11 Best Wheeled Backpacks For Travel

• Travel Gear
• 11 Best Wheeled Backpacks For…

The wheeled backpacks are hugely popular among frequent travelers who like to travel in comfort and ease. Both can be found in some of the best wheeled backpacks for travel that can be easily switched to rolling or backpack mode as per convenience. When tired of carrying it on your back despite the ergonomic design, just switch to the rolling mode and relieve your back of the strain. Here’s a list of some of the best rolling backpacks for travel for comfortable and easy traveling.

How To Choose the Best Wheeled Backpack For Travel

There are certain things that you need to consider while choosing the wheeled backpack for travel. The market has many types of wheeled backpacks for travel and you need to decide which one suits your requirement. Do you want a professional or casual or ultralight backpack for travel ? What is the right size for your travel? Is the material strong enough to withstand the regular wear and tear of the travel? What is the maximum capacity? Is it comfortable enough? Let’s look at all these factors to decide on the right kind of rolling backpack for your travel.

Types of Wheeled Backpacks

There are different types of rolling backpacks that you can find in the market. To start with, there are outdoor or rucksack type of wheeled backpacks that are easy to use. They open on the sides and has multiple compartments for easy organization of items. Then there are leisure wheeled backpacks with unique designs and colors. There are also professional-looking wheeled backpacks that are perfect for business travels.

Capacity and Weight

It is important to know what capacity you require for your travel. For example, if you are on a three to a four-day trip, you may need a backpack with a capacity of 30 to 50 liters. And for a week’s travel, you can comfortably travel with a backpack supporting 50 liters. However, keep in mind that the capacity also depends on the number or type of items you carry inside the backpack. Knowing the capacity or weight the backpack can support always helps to plan your travel in a seamless way.

Along with the capacity, it is equally important to consider the lightweight nature of the backpack. The more lightweight the backpack is, the easier it will be easy to carry or roll it.

Backpack Material

Generally, the wheeled backpacks made of Cordura or Nylon are the most durable of the lot. It is important to ensure that the backpack has sturdy interiors made of aluminum to protect it from the regular wear and tear of travel. Add to that, if the wheels are made of polyurethane, it will ensure they are not easily worn off and can withstand rough terrain or use.

Comfort and Style

The most desirable feature of any luggage is how comfortable it is to use. It is essential to look out for comfort factors such as cushioned interiors, well-cushioned and breathable straps, and padded back panel that makes it so much easier to wear without straining the back and shoulders. Then there are hip belts and shoulder harnesses to carry in tough conditions or climate. Of course, you can switch to the wheels to ease off the strain on your back. But know that not all times you can wheel your backpack unless the surface is smooth or in conditions conducive to rolling, especially inside an airport.

Along with comfort, the backpack style plays a huge role in its selection. The kind of backpack you carry defines your style and preference. For example, you may like to keep it simple and professional or you may prefer a trendy or unique design. However, note that most wheeled backpacks have a sleek and professional style and may not be extremely fashionable looking.

Aoking Water Resistant Rolling Wheeled Backpack

Out of the many wheeled backpacks for travel, the Aoking Water Resistant Rolling Wheeled Backpack is the most fashionable and trendy looking. Designed to catch your attention, this 20/22 inch wheeled backpack is made of a durable combination of nylon and polyester fabric. Thereby, it is both water-resistant and tear-resistant.

In addition to durability, the wheeled backpack is quite spacious and provided with multiple compartments. The outer large compartment is shockproof and has a fully-padded computer sleeve for securely keeping laptops up to 17 inches. Also, the backpack is comfortable to carry due to the well-padded shoulder straps. It is equally easy to pull due to the hideaway telescoping aluminum alloy handle and the 360-degree spinner rubber wheels. What’s even better is that there is a 30-day money-back guarantee.

What We Love

• Stylish and trendy design that is liked and used by all
• Highly durable with spacious compartments
• Water-resistant and tear-resistant
• Well-padded computer sleeve to hold laptops
• Can be comfortably carried or switched to pull-mode
• Convenient hideaway telescopic handle
• Smooth-rolling spinner wheels for mobility
• Handle may not be that sturdy

Check Price & Info

High Sierra AT3 Carry-On Wheeled Backpack

The three-in-one High Sierra AT3 Carry-On Wheeled Backpack is the most convenient and sought-after wheeled backpacks among all the rolling backpacks for travel. It is the perfect find for those who prefer to travel light while jet setting around the globe. A product that is budget-friendly, it is indeed an excellent choice because of its three modes of carrying facilities. In other words, this convertible backpack can be used as a roller backpack, a regular backpack, or can be unzipped at the front as a day pack.

This wheeled backpack is also highly durable and is made of a combination of 900D Duralite and water-resistant Tech-Weave. Along with the high-quality fabric, it is quite stylish looking and available in three different colors, Graphite, Titanium, and Spring. Add to that, it has spacious compartments with zippered accessory pocket, side pockets for water bottles, and an easily accessible headphones port. What actually stands out is its convenience of use due to hideaway well-cushioned non-slip shoulder straps or the inset skate wheels and retractable handle for easy pulling.

• Can be switched to any of the three modes of carrying as per requirement
• Lightweight and durable
• Spacious with a large compartment and multiple pockets
• Comfortable to carry with hidden non-slip well-cushioned shoulder straps
• Inset skate wheels and retractable handle for managing the backpack
• May not meet the acceptable standards of carry-on luggage for some airlines

Targus Compact Rolling Business and Travel Commuter Backpack

Travel effortlessly anywhere in the world when you have the top US brand, Targus Compact Rolling Business and Travel Commuter Backpack as your travel companion. Featuring an extremely durable exterior, the backpack is easy to manage due to the soft-touch neoprene retractable top handle. This lightweight backpack can hold as much as 29 liters and is ideal for weekend or long travels. It ensures easy carrying due to comfortable shoulder straps that can be easily tucked away when not in use. When you are tired of carrying on your back, you can switch to the handle mode for pulling the backpack on the quiet roller wheels.

Also, the backpack is roomy and has a large compartment for laptops up to 17 inches. In addition to the main compartment, there is also a well-padded interior pocket for holding tablets. Then there are additional slots and spaces for keeping small items such as pens, keys, and so on. Add to that, the two meshed side pockets can comfortably hold bottles or coffee holders. One of the pockets is even zippered for secure storage.

• Slim and compact backpack with spacious interiors
• Durable and lightweight
• Multiple compartments and pockets for organizing items
• Cover for wheels and shoulder straps
• Soft-lined interiors for protection
• Quiet rolling wheels and retractable handle for easy usage
• The top handle may not be that smooth to operate

Samsonite Wheeled Backpack

Confidence is what you feel when you are using the Samsonite Wheeled Backpack , one of the top brands known for the best luggage collection in the market. It is arguably one of the best-wheeled backpacks that can withstand any kind of condition or terrain without damages. This is because the wheeled backpack is made of ripstop fabric that makes it resistant to wear and tear.

And along with that, the backpack is quite easy to manage. With well-padded shoulder straps, you can carry it on your back for long with a ready smile. Alternatively, you can switch to pull mode with its retractable handle and sturdy in-line skate wheels. Above all, the backpack is known for its spacious compartments. There is a large compartment that can easily fit a 17-inch laptop. Then there are several small pockets or slots for keeping accessories and devices. There is even an entry for headphones.

• Perfect convertible rolling backpack for long or frequent travels
• Durable and tear-resistant
• Comfortable to wear due to well-padded shoulder straps
• Easy mobility due to in-line skate wheels and retractable handle
• Multiple interior and exterior pockets for organizing items
• Can be used as carry-on luggage in most airlines
• Not very stylish looking

Hynes Eagle 42L Rolling Backpack

If you’re looking for a stylish yet sturdy backpack that’s both lightweight and durable, then go for the versatile Hynes Eagle 42L Rolling Backpack for an enhanced travel experience. Designed to be long-lasting and water-resistant, this fashionable mobile backpack is made of 900D polyester material.

What makes it ideal for weekend or short business travels is its 42 liters capacity of holding items and other travel essentials. The main compartment is large enough to fit a 17-inches laptop and a 10.5 inches tablet. There is even a detachable laptop padded sleeve to secure and protect the laptop or tablet from damages. Also, there are multiple pockets to store travel essentials or items. What’s more, there are four exterior compression straps for maximum compression. Above all, it is easy to organize or find items in this backpack as it opens just like any regular suitcase.

Ergonomically, the backpack is easy to wear due to the well-padded and ventilated hideaway shoulder straps. There are also adjustable sternum straps and waist straps for comfort and balance. On the other hand, you can easily switch to the rolling mode. The wheels are well-rounded for smooth mobility and there is a wheel cover to protect them from dirt and abrasion when not in use. It is indeed convenient to travel with this wheeled backpack as it can fit well in the overhead compartment as well as under the seat of most airlines.

• Reasonably-priced multifunctional wheeled backpack for frequent travels
• Durable and water-repellent
• Spacious with a large storage capacity
• Great organizational capacity with multiple pockets
• Easy to wear due to well-padded shoulder and waist straps
• Convenient to pull due to retractable handle and smooth-rolling wheels
• Complies with the maximum allowed size for carry-on luggage of IATA flights
• Not ideal for heavy rain

High Sierra XBT – Wheeled Laptop Backpack

Perfect for adventure or rugged travels, this another High Sierra product is definitely the one for you if you are an outdoor enthusiast or an avid traveler. The High Sierra XBT – Wheeled Laptop Backpack has a sturdy and durable appearance with a combination of ripstop and tech-weave Duralite fabric. It is also water-resistant, a much-needed feature if you are traveling in heavy rainfall regions.

The gamer laptop backpack may look bulky in appearance, but it is designed for convenient travel. Ergonomically designed, the backpack can be comfortably worn on the back. Due to well-contoured S-shaped shoulder straps and adjustable sternum straps and compression straps, the load can be evenly distributed on the back and shoulders. Equally easy to pull and maneuver, it has smooth-rolling wheels and a soft-grip retractable handle.

The most important feature of the backpack is its safe and secured storage capacity. There are multiple compartments and zippered pockets to stash away and organize your travel essentials. Better still, the main compartment has a well-padded laptop sleeve and soft-lined micro-fleece tablet sleeve. So, go ahead and arm yourself with this breed of Sierra XBT brand to deep dive into any kind of adventure travel!

• Multi-featured, travel-friendly, and versatile backpack
• Extremely durable and lightweight
• Water-resistant
• Great storage capacity with multiple compartments and pockets
• Provides safety and security to expensive gadgets
• Easy to maneuver on rugged terrains with smooth-rolling wheels
• Easy to carry on the back due to comfortable and adjustable straps
• Not ideal for heavy downpour

Aoking Rolling Travel Backpack

Are you the one who has a keen fashion sense and likes to travel in style? Well, then your search ends with the Aoking Rolling Travel Backpack . Bound to catch attention for its fashionable design, it is one of the trendiest backpacks among all the best wheeled backpacks for travel.

Not only stylish, this Aoking product is a premium quality backpack made of a combination of nylon and polyester material, which makes it water as well as tear-resistant. Space-wise, the backpack is well-endowed with multiple compartments and pockets. The main compartment can fit a 17-inch laptop and has a shockproof and well-padded laptop sleeve. What’s more, this carry-on luggage is perfect for all kinds of travel with its hideaway telescopic handle and 360-degree spinner rubber wheels that come with hideaway cover design. And most importantly, the purchase ensures a 30-day money-back guarantee.

• Fashionable and stylish backpack for work or casual travel
• Durable and water-resistant
• Multi-compartment design for organized packing
• Convenient to use with spinner wheels and hideaway retractable handle
• 30-day money-back guarantee
• The handle is not very sturdy

J World New York Sunrise Rolling Backpack

This is another stylish wheeled backpack manufactured by the famous J World New York Sunrise. The elegant design of the J World New York Sunrise Rolling Backpack makes it suitable for any kind of travel by people of all ages. In fact, the size and dimension of the backpack also make it a perfect backpack for school-going kids. Made of durable polyester material, it is also a great backpack for hiking or any outdoor activity. What’s more, you can choose any design collection you like!

The backpack is quite spacious too with a fine fabric lining and several zipper closures. There is a large compartment for laptops or books or clothing along with an easily accessible front pocket organizer. The front pocket has provisions for keeping smaller items or accessories such as pens, pencils, credit cards, or keys et al. Add to that, the side mesh pockets are convenient for keeping bottled water. The backpack also has adjustable shoulder straps and air mesh cushioned back panel to ease the load on your back. And if you want to switch to the pull mode, the noiseless in-line skate wheels and the rust-free aluminum locking handle lets you easily maneuver the backpack. The most unique feature of this bag is that it has a reflective tape for night visibility and safety during the night time.

• Suitable for all ages
• Spacious with a large main compartment and multiple pockets
• Reflective tape for night visibility
• Telescoping handle with multi-stage locking for height adjustments
• May not be compliant with all airline standards for a carry-on luggage

Tumi Merge Wheeled Travel Backpack

Here is another lightweight wheeled backpack to set out on any kind of adventure to add to the list of the best wheeled backpacks for travel. With a perfect blend of style and usability, it goes without saying that this convertible Tumi Merge Wheeled Travel Backpack is also the preferred choice for many business or frequent travelers. This durable backpack is made of ballistic nylon material and is available in two colors, blue and black.

When traveling, you can quickly switch from carrying mode to a rolling backpack by opening the wheels and pulling the telescoping aluminum handle. In fact, you can tuck away the shoulder straps while pulling it. Also, when you are wearing it on your back, there is a cover for the wheels to protect your clothes.

This expandable backpack has a spacious compartment for laptops and clothes along with zippered pockets. There are also compression straps and straps with speed clips to hold the items in place. What makes the backpack secure is the patented closure system that makes the zippers less prone to damages. Most importantly, there is a unique tracer ID on every backpack to ensure its recovery when lost or stolen. Consider it a worthy buy because this backpack is no hassle as carry-on luggage and can easily fit on small or regional jets.

• Perfectly-sized convertible backpack for short trips
• Flexible and can easily fit on smaller jets
• Spacious and safe to carry with patented closure system of zippers
• Unique tracing ID on backpacks for easy recovery when lost or stolen
• The shoulder straps may be difficult to tuck away

Olympia Cascade Outdoor Carry-on Backpack

One look at the Olympia Cascade Outdoor Carry-on Backpack and you know you have found the right choice for hiking or short expeditions. This backpack not only gives you the feel of a rugged rucksack meant for outdoor activities, but has the necessary elements to contribute to its versatility. It is made of durable jacquard polyester material that makes it sturdy enough for any kind of trip. In addition, it is easy to manage this backpack with the combination of a high-quality push-button locking handle system and the smooth-rolling wheels with a protective cover.

When switched to carrying mode, the backpack is comfortable to wear with hideaway padded backpack straps and multi-use harness straps. When not in use, these straps can be tucked away behind the ventilated and well-cushioned back panel. This backpack, sure enough, has a lot of space to pack items for a week-long too. It is expandable too thereby giving that additional capacity to stuff in few more items. Add to that, there are multiple front and side pockets and a dual buckle tie-belt.

• Great style and design for adventurous travelers
• Expandable and spacious with multiple pockets
• Easy to convert to backpack or rolling mode
• Comfortable to carry with hideaway padded backpack straps and multi-use harness straps
• Too big to fit under airline seats

Matein Waterproof Wheeled Travel Backpack

Looking for a wheeled backpack for travel that offers ample space, style, and comfort? Look no further when you have the Matein brand before you. Out of all the wheeled backpacks for travel, the Matein Waterproof Wheeled Travel Backpack assures you of all the above-mentioned features. It is quite durable too made of polyester material and metal zippers. The bottom portion of the backpack is made of waterproof material and there are corner guards to protect it from abrasion as well.

Let’s now find out about the spaciousness of the backpack. This compact and professional looking 38 liters backpack has an in-built laptop pocket to hold laptops up to 15 inches. The main compartment has enough space to fit in clothes and books for short or overnight trips. There is another zippered compartment for heavy files or other items. In addition, there is a front organizer pocket to store small items or travel essentials. The side mesh pockets add further convenience for keeping bottles. Better still, there is a back pocket for easy access to useful items.

When it comes to comfort, the wheeled backpack is equally good. It is comfortable and easy to carry with adjustable and well-ventilated straps. You can actually hide these straps in the back pocket when not in use. When switched to rolling mode, the smooth rubber wheels and telescoping handle ensure easy managing of the backpack.

• Stylish and functional
• Great backpack for a comfortable and smooth travel
• Durable and waterproof
• Extremely spacious with multiple zippered pockets and back pockets
• Ergonomic design for comfortable carrying
• Easy to pull with rubber wheels and the telescoping handle
• Not recommended for heavy rains

Author:  Julie Wharton

As a solo traveler, I have discovered the freedom and adventure that comes from exploring the world on your own terms. With a backpack on my back and a thirst for new experiences, I have journeyed to some of the most remote and fascinating destinations on the planet. As a travel blogger, I share my stories and insights with fellow solo travelers who are looking to break free from the constraints of group tours and package deals. Whether you're a seasoned backpacker or a first-time adventurer, my blog is dedicated to helping you plan your solo travels with confidence and ease. From tips on finding the best hostels to recommendations for off-the-beaten-path destinations, I provide a wealth of information that will help you make the most of your solo journey. And with a passion for photography and storytelling, I bring each destination to life through vivid imagery and captivating narratives. So if you're ready to embark on an adventure of a lifetime, join me on my journey and let's discover the world together.

18 Best Travel Backpacks For Women Of 2024, Per A Travel Expert, Editors, And Reviews

Leave your bulky suitcase at home.

If you haven't yet mastered the art of minimalist packing, you know what might help? A travel backpack. The best travel backpacks for women are designed with several pockets to organize all your clothing, toiletries, tech, and more in one place without requiring you to rummage through it to find that one thing you need.

See some of the best travel backpacks for women below:

Most Budget-Friendly Travel Backpack For Women

Kroser laptop backpack.

Most Comfy To Hold Travel Backpack For Women

The north face borealis backpack.

Most Lightweight Travel Backpack For Women

Baboon to the moon go-bag.

Most Fashionable Travel Backpack For Women

Everlane the renew transit backpack.

Best Tear-Resistant Travel Bag For Women

Ugrace vintage laptop backpack.

Cult-Favorite Travel Backpack

Cuyana leather backpack.

Best Travel Backpack For Women With Storage Compartments

Lululemon wunderlust backpack.

Best Travel Backpack For People With Limited Mobility

Jansport central adaptive backpack.

Best Travel Backpack For Women With Wheels

J world new york sundance rolling backpack.

Best Waterproof Travel Backpack For Women

Rains trail cargo backpack.

That being said, there are times when a suitcase is necessary , especially if you're going on a longer trip. On those occasions, travel backpacks for women come in handy for things you need to access quickly, like your passport during international travel, a laptop, or a light jacket if you're prone to feeling cold while flying.

To find the best backpacks for every kind of traveler, Women's Health curated this list using feedback from a travel expert and our own lifestyle editors. See below for the best travel backpacks for women you can buy in 2023, according to editors, experts, and reviews.

This laptop-friendly backpack has more than 19,700 reviews and five stars on Amazon, but it's under $40—talk about a steal. It's designed with padded straps to help you avoid shoulder fatigue, and a wide-mouth frame that allows you to open up the bag to see all your belongings easily at a glance.

Dubakova likes this backpack because it has an aqua blue inner lining that's more unique than the usual basic black or brown. "That pop of color makes it so much easier to spot my stuff inside the bag," she says. "I'm always digging around to find things, so having that brighter interior sounds super handy." On the downside, she doesn't love that the zippers are bulky and visible, since they make the pockets an easy target for thieves.

Rave Review: "I waited nine months to post this review because I wanted to see how this backpack held up. It has surpassed my every expectation. I can cram tons of stuff into it, it’s durable, and has held up to a ton of abuse on my part. It also has all the right compartments to keep my stuff organized and the price just can’t be beat."

With over 2,900 positive reviews and five stars on Amazon, this backpack gets tons of customer love. It has a top handle and highly-padded straps for optimal comfort when it's on your back. With pockets galore and a fleece-lined laptop sleeve, you'll be able to easily and comfortably store all your essentials in it. It also has a bungee strap front system for slipping in a sweatshirt or a water bottle.

Isabel McMahon, a Women's Health social media editor who's always on-the-go, says that this bag is so comfortable and durable, she's been using it for years. "The laptop sleeve is next-level, and the padded back is essential for a long travel day." She also says it’s perfect for an office-to-gym bag, or as a weekend trip carry-on. On the other hand, her only complaint is that there are a lot of straps and clips hanging off of the bag, which can sometimes get in the way, she says.

Rave Review: "This bag fits very comfortably on the back and the chest strap doesn't crowd the boobs like other packs do. It is compact, but can also manage to comfortably hold a couple binders, notebooks, and a laptop. The padding for the laptop is very nice, especially with the rigid back. So, if you have a thin laptop you don't have to worry about unnecessary torque."

This go-bag, which comes in a bunch of vibrant colors, fits about three to five days worth of clothing and other essentials. It's TSA-approved as a carry-on item, and also comes with adjustable straps so that you can carry it like a backpack or a duffel—whatever suits your needs.

Reviewers say they love how spacious this bag is and that the zipper is located in the back, so it's not exposed while you're wearing it, making it hard for others to open it. Customers also say that they like that the travel backpack is waterproof and durable, though they wish it had more interior and exterior pockets. When the bag isn't filled to the brim, it loses structure, so it can look a little lumpy.

Rave Review: "This is the perfect bag. I've struggled to carry my bags through the airport and on to the plane in the past. This bag is a dream come true. It’s lightweight (even when crammed full, it holds so much) and so ergonomically-friendly!"

This bag is so popular that it has sold out multiple times. It's made with an exterior laptop pocket for easy access when you're heading through security, as well as multiple catch-all compartments for tickets, passports, and the like. The flap remains closed with an invisible magnet to keep the design super sleek, and there's even a pass-through strap at the back for slipping it over your rolling luggage handle.

Reviewers say that they like that this bag is clean and chic, and pretty roomy inside, though it could have more organizational pockets. Some customers also report that the color of the actual bag may be slightly different in person than what's pictured on site, so that's something to keep in mind. Overall, reviewers love that the bag is easy to access, water-resistant, and easy to clean.

Note: Certain colors are out of stock, but can be preordered.

Rave Review: "I am obsessed with my new backpack. I was pleasantly surprised by how much it can fit without looking bulky on my back. The fabric and make looks and feels high-quality. The bag has granted me many compliments while out and about already. LOVE!"

This backpack made from durable material that supposedly doesn't tear has more than 4,500 positive ratings on Amazon for plenty of reasons. It's made with a USB port attached to the bag that allows you to charge your tech pretty much anywhere. The main pocket is also extra large, meaning you can pack clothes, slippers, and toiletries with ease.

Customers who have used this backpack say it is sturdy with plenty of pockets and that it's easy to hold. They also say that the fabric is pretty durable, and that the straps are thick which make it comfy on the shoulders. However, some users said that they wished the bag was a little roomier, as it appears bigger than what it actually is.

Rave Review: "I bought this backpack as a carry-on for a long international flight. I was able to fit so much inside and was extremely impressed at how well it held up. I kept the electronics and valuables in the biggest pouch, and I used the smaller pouch for things like my passport and chargers that I would need to access quickly."

This leather bag—believe it or not—actually fits a 13-inch laptop. It features a zippered compartment for your valuables, slots for your phone and keys, and straps that allow you to carry it on your shoulder as a purse or backpack. Grab it in your choice of three colors.

Though this one doesn't have online reviews, this editor-approved pick is a cult-favorite thanks to its sleek Italian leather design, adjustable notches, and wide back straps.

Built with plenty of storage compartments, this Lululemon backpack was designed for someone who's always on the move. It features side pockets for items you want to frequently reach with ease, adjustable exterior straps to hold a jacket or yoga mat with, and buckle closures that keep your items secure.

Rave Review: "The bag is so spacious and sturdy. This is exactly what I was looking for to use on my upcoming international trip with my baby...It looks classy, too—though, a little bit boxy."

Designed for use by disabled people or people with limited mobility, this Jansport backpack can fit on to a variety of mobility devices. It's also designed with tangle-proof shoulder straps, fumble-free release buckles, and a shorter height than other bags to make accessing the bottom of it a little easier.

Rave Review: "This bag has such a great design. I love how it comes with two straps (short and long). The lining is water-resistant, which is great for spillage."

If you prefer a rolling backpack, this 20-inch bag with an adjustable handlebar (and over 6,000 positive ratings!) is for you. It's kind of a steal when you can catch it on sale, and its fully padded interior includes two large compartments along with several internal pockets. (Plus, there are three exterior zipper pockets to store smaller things like snacks, your phone, and the like).

Rave Review: "This backpack is sturdy, beautifully-organized, and can hold a lot. It can stand up alone and I can leave pockets open as I pull things in and out as I work. The sturdy wheels [can] handle terribly bumpy parking lots. The colors are vivid and cheerful."

If you're looking for a backpack that's sleek and minimalistic, this one's for you. Aside from how stylish it is, this bag's main feature is that it has a totally waterproof exterior—meaning you can store all your tech inside and rest easy knowing everything will remain unaffected by the elements.

Rave Review: "The minimalist look of the bag was my first attraction. There are two interior pockets to hold a computer and other gear securely with enough [extra] room for what I need to take with me. I was looking for something that didn't scream 'backpack.' This has been a great purchase."

Matein Travel Backpack

Do you stuff your backpack to the brim every time you travel? If that's a "yes," you'll definitely appreciate that this bag has 40 whole liters of space. It has a place to hold your shoes, laptop, power bank, and all the toiletries you usually bring along. You'll also love that it's extra large, but still TSA-approved.

Rave Review: "This is an excellent bookbag. It has a bunch of different compartments and it’s very spacious. Also, it’s lightweight and the material is very durable."

Monos Metro Backpack

Monos' Metro Backpack isn't just nice to look at, it's also plenty functional. The travel bag is designed with a detachable pouch, known as a Metro Kit , which you can use to house your valuables, and a built-in trolley sleeve so you can attach it to any Monos suitcase .

Rave Review: " I LOVE this bag. I was worried that the bag might look too big on me (I'm five-foot-two), but it's perfect. I love how easy it is to stay organized. The separate zipper access to the laptop sleeve is the BEST ever for flying!"

Bago Backpack Duffle Bag

If you're looking for a more lightweight but spacious option, this is it. Adjust the straps to use this as a backpack or hold the straps on each side like a duffel. In its huge main compartment, this bag can store a week's worth of stuff.

Rave Review: "I just received this bag today and upon first impression—it's brilliant! Seriously, the way you can just fold this bag up when it's not in use is a great feature I haven't personally seen on other duffel bags and it holds a good amount."

Asenlin Travel Backpack

With more than 2,400 positive ratings on Amazon, this under-$100 travel backpack opens up like a duffel to reveal tons of packing space. The bag also comes with three packing cubes, which make it easier to organize and store your items, since you can divide them into sections.

Rave Review: "I bought this backpack to use as my personal item when we travel by air...It is perfect for this use, as it fits under the airplane seat and has a strap that fits over my carry-on. The best feature I love about this backpack is that it opens up like a suitcase! It's easy to pack, and has a thick, sturdy handle at the top of the [bag] as well."

Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Backpack

This simple but chic backpack has an internal laptop sleeve that's easily accessible, as well as two side pockets for slipping in water bottles or other necessities. Plus, there's also a catch-all front pocket and mini compartment in the back for storing valuables.

Rave Review: "I took [the bag] with me on a flight to California, and it fit well under the seat. I also used it to hold my beach essentials when I went to the beach and for bike rides around the bay. It’s cute and functional."

Carhartt Legacy Hybrid Convertible Backpack

Customers say this Carhartt backpack is smaller than other bags, but very much multi-functional. It can be worn as a backpack or carried as a duffel-esque tote.

The bag is made from heavy-duty fabric so that it can withstand rain and cold, and features extra pockets, like a padded laptop sleeve and side compartments, for optimal storage opportunities.

Rave Review: "I love the versatility of this bag. It's very well-made and easy to use. The size is perfect—big enough to hold a laptop plus other items, but small enough that it's not in the way. Great travel bag."

Away F.A.R. Convertible Backpack

Able to hold a whopping 45 liters, this Away backpack can pretty much do it all. Thanks to its removable straps, it can convert from a backpack to a duffel. The bag can also handle any weather or environment. It's made with abrasion and weather-resistant recycled materials, which—yep—means it's sustainably-designed, too.

Rave Review: "I am pleasantly surprised with how much stuff I could put in this bag! I took it on a weekend trip and was able to fit everything I needed. I love that it has several pockets to store small things that you want to keep handy. I've been a fan of Away luggage for years and I'm glad I get to add this bag to my collection."

Cotopaxi Allpa Travel Pack

If you prefer travel backpacks that open up like a suitcase, this Cotopaxi bag is your pick. It's built with a full wrap-around zipper, so you can plop it open on your bed for a bird's-eye view of what you've packed. It also comes with a padded laptop and tablet sleeve, making it ideal for work trips.

Rave Review: "I can fit a week's worth of clothing in this bag and it fits on every airplane. If you really stuff it full, it still fits under the seat in the smaller airplanes and up top on the larger ones. If you travel frequently by air, this is a great alternative to a roller bag."

How our team chose the best travel backpacks for women

For the past few months, Women's Health editors, including commerce editor Jasmine Gomez, have been researching the best travel backpacks for women to buy online. WH consulted travel expert Alexandra Dubakova and our lifestyle editors, and also vetted thousands of expert reviews to find the very best options available online.

What should I look for in a travel backpack for women?

There's an endless selection of travel backpacks for women for you to load up on, but here are a few things you should look out for to find the best ones.

Lugging a backpack through airports, tossing it into overheads on trains and buses, or folding it down for storage will put your travel bag through the wringer, so it's important you grab something that's durable. "A durable backpack is more cost-effective because it provides greater longevity and offers value for your money," Dubakova says. You can get a sense of a bag's durability by looking at the bag's seams, she explains. Make sure it doesn't have loose threads or inconsistent stitching.

When it comes to the most durable fabrics, Dubakova recommends cordura. "It is resistant to abrasion, weather-resistant, and more rugged compared to nylon," she says. She also recommends compromising between the bag's heaviness and durability. "For example, canvas bags are sturdy, and the material is durable, but it is considerably heavy," Dubakova says.

You'll know whether a bag is supportive depending on how comfortable you are, and since you may wear your backpack for quite a while, you definitely want something that feels good to throw on. "A comfortable backpack will evenly distribute the weight of its contents to avoid pain and pressure on the shoulder or back and any injuries," Dubakova says.

To find a backpack that will be as comfortable as possible, Dubakova recommends looking for ones with adjustable shoulder straps, padded backs, and adjustable hip belts. This will allow you to toy around with it to get the perfect fit.

When it comes to design, you should consider how your bag will make the experience of traveling better. For example, Dubakova recommends bags with mesh back panels, since they can ensure there's enough airflow to prevent you from heating up and sweating when you're on-the-go. Other special features someone might enjoy include pockets of different sizes, individual storage bags to accompany the bag, or even a sleeve to store your laptop.

Finally, you should get something you think is cute or aesthetically-pleasing. Travel backpacks come in different sizes, color schemes, and prices, so choose something that works for you.

Jasmine Gomez is the Commerce Editor at Women’s Health, where she cover the best product recommendations across beauty, health, lifestyle, fitness, and more. When she's not shopping for a living, she enjoys karaoke and dining out more than she cares to admit. Follow her @JazzeGomez .  

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The 14 Best Carry-on Backpacks of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

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

In This Article

Jump to a Section

• Our top picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips For Buying
• Why Trust T+L

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure/Joy Kim

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

We tested dozens of carry-on backpacks and evaluated them based on traits like capacity, comfort, durability, and design. First, we tested the backpacks in our New York City lab and utilized our airplane set complete with row of real plane seats and overhead storage bins. We then took them out into the world for six months to further test each bag on a variety of trips. From rugged to sleek styles, we tested plenty of carry-on backpacks ranging in design and size that impressed us.

Best Overall

Cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack.

• Capacity 5 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Durability 5 /5
• Comfort 5 /5

The backpack has an unstructured style that makes it easy to pack clothing and accessories, plus a plethora of thoughtful features catered to frequent travelers.

There isn’t a designated water bottle holder.

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

We think this durable Cotopaxi bag will remain in excellent condition no matter how many times it hits the road, as it was not damaged at all after we repeatedly tossed it onto the ground. The rubber texture also seemed easy to clean and resistant to liquid spills. After six months of regularly using the bag, we found that it's the perfect size for long weekend trips and helps keep all of our items organized and easy to access. Both stylish and functional, this backpack can even be made one-of-a-kind by choosing the surprise colors option when purchased through Cotopaxi’s website.

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

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Travel + leisure / Jhett Thompson

Best Convertible

Away f.a.r. convertible backpack 45l.

• Design 4.5 /5

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

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

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

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

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

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Best Budget

Asenlin 40l travel backpack.

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

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

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

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

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

Best Traditional

Samsonite silhouette 17 backpack.

• Design 4 /5
• Durability 4 /5

Thanks to its clamshell design, it’s like a suitcase without wheels.

Some of the straps weren’t intuitive to use.

The Samsonite Silhouette 17 Backpack is ideal for travelers who like the structure and sleek, minimalist style of a traditional suitcase but want the portability of a backpack. We love that this bag opens like a suitcase, making it easy to access everything inside. There was plenty of space leftover after packing the backpack, and the classic clamshell opening allowed for easy access to items in the compression-strapped main compartment and the zippered pockets on the inside of the front flap. All of the interior and exterior pockets, including the water bottle holder and padded laptop sleeve, are useful for traveling. You can convert the backpack to wear as a duffel bag or a briefcase, and it has a rear strap to place on a rolling suitcase if desired. The straps were easy to adjust, and it felt like the weight was nicely distributed thanks to the structured style of the backpack. There was a small scuff on the bag after we tossed it on the floor during our durability tests, but the contents of the backpack remained unharmed. When flying with the bag during our six-month testing period, we found that it easily fits in airplane overhead bins and under the seat. Overall, it’s a backpack with the features of a well-compartmentalized suitcase and much more.

The Details: 13 x 20.5 x 10.5 inches | 3.31 pounds | Polyester, recyclex | Padded laptop pocket | Convertible straps

Best for Photographers

Peak design travel backpack 45l.

• Value 4.5 /5

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

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

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

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

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

Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph

Best Compression

Tropicfeel shell backpack.

• Comfort 4 /5

It can be converted from 40 liters for traveling to 22 liters to use as a daypack. 

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

We love this backpack’s thoughtful features geared toward all types of travelers. The Tropicfeel Shell Backpack has the ability to store up to 42 liters worth of clothing for a weekend or week-long trip, but you can also use it as a 20-liter backpack for day trips, sightseeing, and everyday use. After regularly using the bag for six months, we found it to be incredibly sturdy and durable. We had no issues fitting our full packing list and found that there was plenty more room thanks to the variety of buckled straps that allow you to adjust the size of the bag. You can loosen the front buckle to allow the roll-up opening flap to expand to fit more items, and there is a kangaroo pouch at the bottom of the backpack that provides an additional six liters of space for shoes or other items you want to keep separate. There’s also a padded compartment in the back of the backpack that can fit laptops up to 17 inches long. We thought the backpack was comfortable to wear after adjusting the shoulder and waist straps, but we found that it might take some effort to get the buckles into your desired setting. 

The Shell Backpack didn’t show any signs of damage throughout testing, and the material is weather-proof. For travelers looking to add upgrades to their backpack, the brand has an organization system and accessory pouches that you can add on for additional fees. If you need an all-in-one backpack, we think this backpack’s versatility makes it well worth the higher cost. 

The Details: 20-42 liters | 12 x 20 x 7.5 inches

Best Organization

Topo designs global travel bag 30l.

Topo Designs

• Capacity 4 /5

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

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

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

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

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

Best Customizable

Roam the continental.

• Capacity 4.5 /5
• Comfort 4.8 /5

You can choose from four colors to customize the shade of the front, back, sides, and straps of the backpack. 

The laptop sleeve isn’t padded.

Customized luggage can be hard to come by, but Roam’s The Continental backpack makes it easier than ever to build the carry-on backpack of your dreams. The front, back, sides, and straps of the bag can be red, green, black, or blue, or you can keep the backpack all one color for a monochromatic look. We were a bit worried about the light colors when we first got our hands on this bag, but after four months of traveling, is has no signs of wear and tear, there are no stains or loose threads, and everything is still in good shape. We were also impressed by the exterior pockets to stash headphones, snacks, chargers, water bottles, or anything else you could need whether lounging in the airport or mid-flight. The bag is made with a lightweight, water-repellent fabric and YKK zippers so it easily handles temperamental weather while traveling. Spacious and easy to access, the front flap opens wide so packing the bag with clothes and shoes was a breeze, too. The laptop pocket in the back could easily fit a 17-inch device, but it isn’t padded, so you may want to store your computer in a case to be on the safe side. 

The Details: 26 liters | 17.75 x 14 x 8 inches | 2.4 pounds | Water-repellent fabric | Laptop pocket

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Best Expandable

Nomatic travel pack.

• Capacity 4.8 /5
• Comfort 4.5 /5
• Durability 4.5 /5
• Value 4.8 /5

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

Some of the pockets feel unnecessary.

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

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

• Travel + Leisure/Jessica Juliao

Matein Travel Backpack

• Durability 4.3 /5

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

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

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

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

Best for Hiking

Kühl eskape 25.

The 25-liter capacity makes this backpack versatile for an airplane or the great outdoors.

It takes some adjustments to get it to fit comfortably on the back.

This rugged carry-on backpack from Kühl is the perfect option for travelers embarking on an outdoor adventure. The smaller size of this bag is its greatest strength since it can easily fit enough clothes for a weekend trip, or you can use it as an adventure pack for day hikes or camping trips. There are a variety of thoughtful features for hikers including a stowaway hip belt for extra support while trekking, load-lifting shoulder straps, and the bag is made with durable TPU-laminated nylon. Plus, the chest strap slides up and down the shoulder straps so travelers can get the most comfortable fit for their upper body. We found that it takes some extra effort to adjust all of the straps for the right fit, but once you do, the bag is comfortable to carry for long periods of time. For even more versatility, the bag has a padded laptop pocket and a variety of other small and large zippered pockets to stay organized if you’re commuting or traveling for work. 

The Details: 25 liters | 20.5 x 9.5 x 12.5 inches | Waterproof nylon | 17-inch laptop pocket

Best Waterproof

Tortuga travel backpack.

This bag is basically a suitcase without wheels thanks to its large capacity and clamshell-style opening.

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

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

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

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

Travel + Leisure / Taylor Fox

Everlane ReNew Transit Backpack

This lightweight backpack has a sleek and contemporary design that comes in several earthy colors.  

It has a smaller capacity than many backpacks and can only fit a day or two of clothes.

If you’re looking to travel in style, Everlane’s The ReNew Transit Backpack is the perfect fit. Functional and contemporary, we found it to be best suited for weekend trips because of its smaller capacity. The bag fit all of the packing items during testing, but it would be difficult to fit much more in the main compartment. The ReNew Transit was comfortable to wear thanks to its lightweight polyester material and compact build. The front flap of the backpack has an external pocket for smaller items, and it folds over to attach magnetically to the front of the backpack. During our durability tests, the front magnets stayed securely together, and the body of the backpack didn’t get crushed or damaged. We liked how it can fit under an airplane seat, making it a versatile backpack for traveling with or without other pieces of luggage. There is a laptop sleeve in the back of the bag as well as a water bottle holder on the side and a front zippered pocket below the folding magnetic lock. With four earthy tones to choose from, this is a bag to fit all travel style preferences. 

The Details: 27 liters | 12 x 17.5 x 7.25 inches

Best for Foot Travel

Osprey fairview 40.

The compartments and various straps made packing effortless. 

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

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

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

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

Travel + Leisure /Jhett Thompson

Other Carry-on Backpacks We Liked

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

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

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

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

On two separate occasions, we tested carry-on backpacks in our New York City lab to make sure we were creating this list with the best options from trusted luggage brands. For our latest tests, we built a specially designed airplane set that includes a row of real airplane seats and an overhead storage bin. To date, we've put over 34 carry-on backpacks through a series of trials that compared capacity, design, comfort, durability, and overall value. After completing our in-house testing, we sent the backpacks out with our Travel + Leisure editors to give us insight on how they fared during real-world travel. We have been updating this article with long-term testing insights as soon as they become available. 

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

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

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

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

Tips for Buying a Carry-on Backpack

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

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

Keep in mind what the bag will be used for

For those traveling by foot, a smaller, lightweight backpack would be better for portability and comfort. For those traveling by air, a compression bag or backpack that has plentiful organization could be a better choice so you get the most out of the limited airline baggage space.

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

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

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Anna Popp is a commerce writer at T+L, where she reviews travel products and writes the majority of the team's "Travel + Leisure Trusted" articles. Anna owns several carry-on backpacks, including the top pick from Cotopaxi, so she combined knowledge of traveling with just a backpack and the thorough lab testing and real-world insights to put together this list of the best carry-on backpacks.

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The Best Backpacks with Wheels in Australia for 2024

Written by: The Adventure Lab

Last Updated: July 16, 2024

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Wheeled Backpacks can be the best way to travel both light and efficiently.

However, with so many options on the market, it can be hard to find the product that is right for you.

In this article, we break down everything from choosing the right one for your body type to overall durability to help you find the wheeled backpack that best meets your specific needs.

Our top pick: Osprey Sojourn 60L Wheeled Backpack

Pros: Anti-Gravity Suspension System, multiple handles and exterior pockets, High Road™ chassis, several outer attachment points, stowaway padded shoulder and hip straps Cons: Fairly expensive

The Osprey Sojourn is our top pick because it has been designed with both function and comfort in mind.

Having a wheeled backpack makes maneuvering or standing in line a lot more comfortable. However, the Sojourn goes beyond the smooth floors of airports with its High Road™ chassis. The specially designed chassis and additional base clearance allow it to be wheeled over even rugged terrain. 

This pack has a curved base on the back for additional comfort when carrying it as a backpack. Also, the well-padded shoulder and hip straps allow this backpack to be carried comfortably for long periods.

Plus, the load lifter straps help to balance the larger pack for greater comfort, this is especially important for those with petite body styles.  

Additionally, when considering different body styles the Osprey Sojourn features a torso length adjustment option to ensure the most comfort while carrying your pack.

According to Becky, a Backcountry Edge Gear Specialist , the adjustable torso feature is rare to find on convertible travel luggage.

Best Value: Kathmandu Hybrid 50L Trolley

Pros: Padded shoulder and hip straps, multiple exterior handles, internal compression straps to hold gear in place Cons: No sternum strap

The 50L Hybrid Trolley prides itself on being lightweight yet durable for even the most adventurous traveller.

This pack is spacious enough to live comfortably out of for months and can stow everything you need from boots to jackets, especially when using packing cubes.

Many travellers praise the Kathmandu Hybrid for being watertight even on the rainiest of days.

Additionally, because of its durability, travellers can feel comfortable bringing this bag on all of their travels.  

For those who enjoy the benefit of a daypack, this pack has attachment points to add this accessory easily.

Best Wheeled daypack: High Sierra Wheeled Laptop Backpack

Pros: Padded laptop sleeve, padded bottom for protection, affordable Cons: Telescopic handle could be longer

If you’re looking for a dependable laptop backpack that is hardy and durable, this could be a good option.

This wheeled backpack will hold most 17-inch laptops and has a fully padded computer sleeve for extra protection.

The organiser compartment keeps your most important items secure and easily accessible. The multi-compartment design also includes a padded bottom panel to protect your contents from damage.

This backpack features a zippered media pocket so that you can store your phone and other small electronics, and also features a headphone port.

Largest Volume: Macpac 80L Wheeled Duffel Bag

Pros: Several carry options, large volume, durable nylon construction, reasonably priced Cons: Less suited to extended use as a backpack

This Macpac duffel is a lightweight, durable duffel bag that’s perfect for short trips or big adventures. It has a variety of carrying options, making it very versatile.

The detachable shoulder straps allow you to carry it as a backpack if needed, or simply use the webbing carry handles.

It has a large 80L main compartment and includes lockable zips and an external side zip pocket. Compression straps allow you to keep your gear tidy and compact while you’re on the move.

BlackWolfDual Shuttle 80

Pros: Large, 75L capacity, comfortable foam waist harness, all-terrain wheels, attachable daypack Cons: Looks less premium than other options

The Dual Shuttle 80 is a fusion adventure trolley pack that’s designed to take you on an adventure. It’s got a capacity of 75L, so you can fit everything you need for your journey.

The EVA comfort foam harness adds support and comfort while the pack is on your back and means you can easily move the weight around as needed.

Meanwhile, the extendable handle makes it easy to maneuver around an airport or city streets when you’re using it like a suitcase.

The super tough all-terrain wheels will ensure that your journey is smooth and easy, even if it means some not-so-smooth surfaces. The lockable zips will keep your things safe from thieves, and the soft foam handles make it easy to lift off luggage carousels.

Included with this set is an additional 15L daypack that zips onto the main pack. It has plenty of room for all of your essentials.

Impressively, this pack weighs just 4kg, the same as the 60L Osprey Sojourn.

Caribee Voyager 75L Wheeled Travel Bag

Pros: Great for business travel, lockable zips, two front pockets, aluminium trolley system, reasonably priced, multiple grab handles Cons: No external attachment points, no sternum or hip straps

The Caribee Voyager 75 is one of the sleekest-looking travel bags on the market. This wheeled backpack would be equally at home in a five-star hotel or tucked away in a tent. 

This wheeled pack is not only spacious, but it also has multiple exterior pockets making it easy to access convenience items. There are twin internal zippered storage pockets to make organizing your bag more comfortable.

The Voyager 75 has stowaway shoulder straps, and the low-profile compression straps help to keep your gear tightly secured.

Wheeled Backpack Buyer’s Guide

Buying a wheeled backpack is an investment. Multiple elements need to be taken into account when picking out the optimal pack for your travels.

Below is a list of things to take into consideration when buying a wheeled backpack

Fit And Size

Choosing the right backpack for your body style will make ensure the maximum amount of comfort and reduce the chance of future back issues.

The design and support of your pack are likely to be the most critical elements in deciding on the right travel luggage.

One of the greatest things about a wheeled backpack is the variety of features available.

Some of the options on wheeled backpacks are detachable daypacks , compartment size and placement, and shoulder and hip straps. 

How you plan to use your backpack will determine which features will be most important.

Travel Type

How you plan to use the bag is also a significant consideration when picking the right travel bag. If you are traveling for business or off seeing the world will make a big difference in finding the ideal wheeled backpack for you.

Padding is a major factor in ensuring you can carry your bag comfortably. For those not looking to use the backpack feature often, padding won’t be as essential. However, for adventurers taking a lot of gear having well padded straps is vital. 

RELATED: The Best Antarctica Tours & Cruises

When searching for your perfect wheeled backpack, be sure to take into account your personal preferences along with the considerations discussed in our buyer’s guide above.

While any of the products on this list would be great options to transport your gear, our favourite is the Osprey Sojourn thanks to its proven reliability and range of travel-friendly features.

Related Posts:

The Adventure Lab

The Best Carry-On Luggage and Weekender Bags for Spring Travel: Away, Samsonite, Calpak and More

The right luggage or carry-on bag for spring break travel can help make any trip as smooth as possible.

If you're gearing up for your spring travel plans, you may be searching for the perfect luggage to accompany you on your upcoming getaway.  Carry-on luggage  — including weekender bags and spinners — is probably the best way to travel if you want to beat the lines at busy airports, especially if you're traveling on a Friday.

No matter where your travel destinations are, one thing's for sure: the right luggage will make all the difference. We've found the best luggage to shop for all of your travels, from spacious duffle bags and practical backpacks to large and luxurious carry-ons  for your next flight.

Need a new tote bag to toss everything in for an upcoming Memorial Day weekend getaway or a bigger carry-on for a tropical vacation? The Beis Weekender Bag will fit all your essentials and help you travel in style. Need a new go-to suitcase for every travel situation? Away’s  standard carry on traveler bag has plenty of packing space while still fitting in the overhead bin. Trying to avoid the checked baggage fees and long bag drop line? The Samsonite Underseat Carry-On Luggage helps you save money and time by going straight to TSA.

Below, we've rounded up the best carry-on luggage and weekender bags this year to take along on your next trip.

The Best Carry-On Suitcases for 2024

Samsonite freeform carry-on spinner.

Not only is the Samsonite Hardside Spinner perfectly sized and extremely durable, it's also incredible lightweight so you won't have to strain putting it in the overhead airplane compartment. With all kinds of pockets, you can easily organize all your belongings confidently. 

$200   $150

Away The Carry-On

This Away bag boasts flashy features such as a durable polycarbonate hard shell, spinner wheels and a TSA-approved, ejectable USB charger. The classic rolling hardside luggage with a retractable handle is designed to fit in most major airlines' overhead compartments, making it a great go-to Carry-On bag for travel, regardless of your destination.

Take OFF Luggage Personal Item Suitcase 2.0

The perfect-sized luggage that doubles as a personal item — just pop off the wheels and slide it under your seat. 

Rockland Melbourne Hardside Expandable Spinner Wheel Luggage

This Rockland Melbourne Spinner Luggage makes traveling easier by being extremely lightweight. While protecting your items, the wheels rotate 360 degrees for a smooth and seamless stride in the airport. Although it is compact, this carry-on luggage has the ability to hold everything you need for a short vacation.

Travelpro Platinum Elite Hardside Expandable Spinner

Travelpro is a pilot-founded brand that you've likely seen used by flight crews. Travel stress-free with the Travelpro hardside carry-on luggage that effortlessly fits in the overhead bins of major domestic airlines, thanks to rigorous sizer bin testing and enhanced packing capacity. The PrecisionGlide System delivers impeccable control and a seamless rolling experience, so you can get through the airport with ease.

$370   $314

Samsonite Underseat Carry-On Spinner with USB Port

Compact and convenient, this soft-sided luggage can slide smoothly under the seat in front of you or be tucked away in an overhead bin. The bag's main compartment can fit several outfits and a spare pair of shoes. Interior pockets lining the compartment will keep your toiletries organized. The telescoping handle and rolling wheels make this bag easy to navigate around a crowded airport, making it a great choice for the frequent flyer looking to pack light.

$145   $100

Monos Carry-On

Traveling is a breeze with the minimalist Monos carry-on, designed to fit in the overheard bin of almost any flight.

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage

This Travelpro Maxlite softside luggage has spinner wheels and is lightweight, making it easy to maneuver airport terminals and your flight's overhead storage bins. 

$170   $144

The Best Travel Backpacks and Totes for 2024 

Samsonite detour travel backpack.

Built to protect your belongings from the elements, the Detour Travel Backpack has enough capacity for your business, overnight or weekend trips.

$150   $105

Béis Travel Tote

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Moscow Metro Tour

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Description

Moscow metro private tours.

• 2-hour tour $87:  10 Must-See Moscow Metro stations with hotel pick-up and drop-off
• 3-hour tour $137:  20 Must-See Moscow Metro stations with Russian lunch in beautifully-decorated Metro Diner + hotel pick-up and drop off. 
• Metro pass is included in the price of both tours.

Highlight of Metro Tour

• Visit 10 must-see stations of Moscow metro on 2-hr tour and 20 Metro stations on 3-hr tour, including grand Komsomolskaya station with its distinctive Baroque décor, aristocratic Mayakovskaya station with Soviet mosaics, legendary Revolution Square station with 72 bronze sculptures and more!
• Explore Museum of Moscow Metro and learn a ton of technical and historical facts;
• Listen to the secrets about the Metro-2, a secret line supposedly used by the government and KGB;
• Experience a selection of most striking features of Moscow Metro hidden from most tourists and even locals;
• Discover the underground treasure of Russian Soviet past – from mosaics to bronzes, paintings, marble arches, stained glass and even paleontological elements;
• Learn fun stories and myths about Coffee Ring, Zodiac signs of Moscow Metro and more;
• Admire Soviet-era architecture of pre- and post- World War II perious;
• Enjoy panoramic views of Sparrow Hills from Luzhniki Metro Bridge – MetroMost, the only station of Moscow Metro located over water and the highest station above ground level;
• If lucky, catch a unique «Aquarelle Train» – a wheeled picture gallery, brightly painted with images of peony, chrysanthemums, daisies, sunflowers and each car unit is unique;
• Become an expert at navigating the legendary Moscow Metro system;
• Have fun time with a very friendly local;
• + Atmospheric Metro lunch in Moscow’s the only Metro Diner (included in a 3-hr tour)

Hotel Pick-up

Metro stations:.

Komsomolskaya

Novoslobodskaya

Prospekt Mira

Belorusskaya

Mayakovskaya

Novokuznetskaya

Revolution Square

Sparrow Hills

+ for 3-hour tour

Victory Park

Slavic Boulevard

Vystavochnaya

Dostoevskaya

Elektrozavodskaya

Partizanskaya

Museum of Moscow Metro

• Drop-off  at your hotel, Novodevichy Convent, Sparrow Hills or any place you wish
• + Russian lunch  in Metro Diner with artistic metro-style interior for 3-hour tour

Fun facts from our Moscow Metro Tours:

From the very first days of its existence, the Moscow Metro was the object of civil defense, used as a bomb shelter, and designed as a defense for a possible attack on the Soviet Union.

At a depth of 50 to 120 meters lies the second, the coded system of Metro-2 of Moscow subway, which is equipped with everything you need, from food storage to the nuclear button.

According to some sources, the total length of Metro-2 reaches over 150 kilometers.

The Museum was opened on Sportivnaya metro station on November 6, 1967. It features the most interesting models of trains and stations.

Coffee Ring

The first scheme of Moscow Metro looked like a bunch of separate lines. Listen to a myth about Joseph Stalin and the main brown line of Moscow Metro.

Zodiac Metro

According to some astrologers, each of the 12 stops of the Moscow Ring Line corresponds to a particular sign of the zodiac and divides the city into astrological sector.

Astrologers believe that being in a particular zadiac sector of Moscow for a long time, you attract certain energy and events into your life.

Paleontological finds 

Red marble walls of some of the Metro stations hide in themselves petrified inhabitants of ancient seas. Try and find some!

• Every day each car in  Moscow metro passes  more than 600 km, which is the distance from Moscow to St. Petersburg.
• Moscow subway system is the  5th in the intensity  of use (after the subways of Beijing, Tokyo, Seoul and Shanghai).
• The interval in the movement of trains in rush hour is  90 seconds .

What you get:

• + A friend in Moscow.
• + Private & customized Moscow tour.
• + An exciting pastime, not just boring history lessons.
• + An authentic experience of local life.
• + Flexibility during the walking tour: changes can be made at any time to suit individual preferences.
• + Amazing deals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the very best cafes & restaurants. Discounts on weekdays (Mon-Fri).
• + A photo session amongst spectacular Moscow scenery that can be treasured for a lifetime.
• + Good value for souvenirs, taxis, and hotels.
• + Expert advice on what to do, where to go, and how to make the most of your time in Moscow.

Write your review

Claudia Looi

Touring the Top 10 Moscow Metro Stations

By Claudia Looi 2 Comments

Komsomolskaya metro station looks like a museum. It has vaulted ceilings and baroque decor.

Hidden underground, in the heart of Moscow, are historical and architectural treasures of Russia. These are Soviet-era creations – the metro stations of Moscow.

Our guide Maria introduced these elaborate metro stations as “the palaces for the people.” Built between 1937 and 1955, each station holds its own history and stories. Stalin had the idea of building beautiful underground spaces that the masses could enjoy. They would look like museums, art centers, concert halls, palaces and churches. Each would have a different theme. None would be alike.

The two-hour private tour was with a former Intourist tour guide named Maria. Maria lived in Moscow all her life and through the communist era of 60s to 90s. She has been a tour guide for more than 30 years. Being in her 60s, she moved rather quickly for her age. We traveled and crammed with Maria and other Muscovites on the metro to visit 10 different metro stations.

Arrow showing the direction of metro line 1 and 2

Moscow subways are very clean

To Maria, every street, metro and building told a story. I couldn’t keep up with her stories. I don’t remember most of what she said because I was just thrilled being in Moscow.   Added to that, she spilled out so many Russian words and names, which to one who can’t read Cyrillic, sounded so foreign and could be easily forgotten.

The metro tour was the first part of our all day tour of Moscow with Maria. Here are the stations we visited:

1. Komsomolskaya Metro Station  is the most beautiful of them all. Painted yellow and decorated with chandeliers, gold leaves and semi precious stones, the station looks like a stately museum. And possibly decorated like a palace. I saw Komsomolskaya first, before the rest of the stations upon arrival in Moscow by train from St. Petersburg.

2. Revolution Square Metro Station (Ploshchad Revolyutsii) has marble arches and 72 bronze sculptures designed by Alexey Dushkin. The marble arches are flanked by the bronze sculptures. If you look closely you will see passersby touching the bronze dog's nose. Legend has it that good luck comes to those who touch the dog's nose.

Touch the dog's nose for good luck. At the Revolution Square station

Revolution Square Metro Station

3. Arbatskaya Metro Station served as a shelter during the Soviet-era. It is one of the largest and the deepest metro stations in Moscow.

Arbatskaya Metro Station

4. Biblioteka Imeni Lenina Metro Station was built in 1935 and named after the Russian State Library. It is located near the library and has a big mosaic portrait of Lenin and yellow ceramic tiles on the track walls.

Lenin's portrait at the Biblioteka Imeni Lenina Metro Station

5. Kievskaya Metro Station was one of the first to be completed in Moscow. Named after the capital city of Ukraine by Kiev-born, Nikita Khruschev, Stalin's successor.

Kievskaya Metro Station

6. Novoslobodskaya Metro Station  was built in 1952. It has 32 stained glass murals with brass borders.

Novoslobodskaya metro station

7. Kurskaya Metro Station was one of the first few to be built in Moscow in 1938. It has ceiling panels and artwork showing Soviet leadership, Soviet lifestyle and political power. It has a dome with patriotic slogans decorated with red stars representing the Soviet's World War II Hall of Fame. Kurskaya Metro Station is a must-visit station in Moscow.

Ceiling panel and artworks at Kurskaya Metro Station

8. Mayakovskaya Metro Station built in 1938. It was named after Russian poet Vladmir Mayakovsky. This is one of the most beautiful metro stations in the world with 34 mosaics painted by Alexander Deyneka.

Mayakovskaya station

One of the over 30 ceiling mosaics in Mayakovskaya metro station

9. Belorusskaya Metro Station is named after the people of Belarus. In the picture below, there are statues of 3 members of the Partisan Resistance in Belarus during World War II. The statues were sculpted by Sergei Orlov, S. Rabinovich and I. Slonim.

10. Teatralnaya Metro Station (Theatre Metro Station) is located near the Bolshoi Theatre.

Teatralnaya Metro Station decorated with porcelain figures .

Taking the metro's escalator at the end of the tour with Maria the tour guide.

Have you visited the Moscow Metro? Leave your comment below.

January 15, 2017 at 8:17 am

An excellent read! Thanks for much for sharing the Russian metro system with us. We're heading to Moscow in April and exploring the metro stations were on our list and after reading your post, I'm even more excited to go visit them. Thanks again 🙂

December 6, 2017 at 10:45 pm

Hi, do you remember which tour company you contacted for this tour?

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